Huntsville, AL June 2026

DESIGN | BUILD

Neighbors Who Care

At Dental Professionals on Whitesburg, care is more than a service. It is a commitment to our neighbors, our community, and every patient who walks through our doors. We live here, we serve here, and we value real relationships built on trust, comfort, and consistency. Our team brings warmth, experience, and attention to detail to every visit, creating a space where patients feel calm, welcomed, and at home. Your smile has a home here.

Let's Hear It For The Boys

In this Men's issue we find a tribute to the one and only Microwave Dave; an interview with Golf champion Jerry Pate and his daughter Jenni; high tech spaces; men who push the limits in athleticism; and entrepreneurial stories that inspire and motivate us to live our dreams with passion, dedication, and focus. One of the most thought-provoking features comes from Therapist Stephanie Cashin Fathers Be Good To Your Daughters, and it is so well written on the role of men that is worth sharing in this opening letter:

A good father doesn't take all the fear away. But over time, in a hundred ordinary moments — a car ride, a kitchen conversation, a quiet I'm proud of you, a calm presence after a hard day — he helps his daughter build something most people are desperately trying to find as adults: a steady place to stand.

A warm father doesn't just make a daughter feel loved. He helps her body learn that the world is survivable. That people can be trusted. That she doesn't have to brace for impact every time she walks into a room.

The father-daughter relationship is a daughter's first experience of how a man sees her. Long before she has language for worth or value, she is already learning from the way he speaks to her, shows up for her, repairs after conflict, and stays present in the small moments what she can expect from the men who will follow.

Research shows that daughters with positive, secure relationships with their fathers are more trusting in their relationships, more confident in conflict, and more capable of emotional intimacy as adults. Not because fathers are the only influence but because they are the first 'male-female relationship' a daughter ever navigates.

The template gets set quietly, in the ordinary moments. The way he listens when she's mid-ramble about something that “doesn't matter”. The way he stays in the room after something hard. The way he repairs-or doesn't. The way she watches him speak to her mother.

She is learning what she is worth in a man's eyes. She is learning whether men are safe. She is learning how much of herself she should have to give away to be loved.

Fathers set that standard not once, not in a speech, but in a thousand moments he probably won't remember and she almost certainly will.

Long. Live. Print.

AMY BAILEY, PUBLISHER

PUBLISHER

Amy Bailey | amy.bailey@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Casey Creque | casey.creque@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Susan Rogers | susan.rogers@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Mary Nell Cole

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Tresa Peppers

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dennis Keim, Dr. Zachary Mosher, Josue Juarez, Cooper Smitherman, Stephnie Cashin

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joe Davis, Dennis Keim, Daniel Pritchett

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn

city scene

Huntsville’s

June is a time to reconnect—with your goals, your family, and your future. At Keel Point, our local advisors bring intentionality to every conversation, helping you navigate what matters most with clarity and purpose. We believe wealth management is more than numbers—it’s about relationships built on trust, understanding, and shared vision.

This month, take a step toward a more thoughtful financial path. With a team rooted in your community, Keel Point is here to guide you with insight, care, and a commitment to your long-term success.

Schedule an introductory meeting today and take the first step toward securing the future you envision for the generations that follow.

A TRIBUTE TO MICROWAVE DAVE

Huntsville legend Microwave Dave, musician and friend

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DENNIS KEIM

It all started with a phone call to my studio in 1989. In those days, the Yellow Pages was the lifeline of any business, and that’s where he found me. The voice on the other end was raw and rich: “Hey, this is Microwave Dave with Microwave Dave and the Nukes. You’re the only photographer listed that offers Black & White photography. I need a band photo!”

I’d never heard of them and assumed they were a punk band. Curious, I checked the Valley Planet, a local entertainment paper and saw they were playing the world-renowned Kaffeeklatsch bar that evening. To my surprise, they weren’t punk at all; but rather a hard-driving blues band playing to a packed house. Little did I know that phone call would spark a 38-year friendship with the man the world affectionately knew as “Microwave Dave.”

THE FINAL PIECE OF THE PUZZLE

In those early years, I had the honor of getting “the call” for every new band lineup. While Dave and bassist Rick Godfrey were the core of the Blues power trio, they cycled through several drummers. Then one day, they arrived with a kid named James Irvin, who sported a “rooster-spiked hairdo”. As Dave put it, James “stuck

like a bad penny”—they couldn’t get rid of him, nor did they want to. James became the perfect final piece of the blues puzzle Dave had been seeking.

LIVING ON “DAVE TIME”

Whether you met Dave once or a hundred times, he was always the same: genuine, humble, generous and incredibly giving of his time. Dave never met a stranger, and if you were out with him and his uber driver, you’d better not be in a hurry.

I called it “Dave Time.” Everyone wanted to meet and speak with him, and Dave, without hesitation gave it freely. It was humbling to watch the respect and compassion he poured into every conversation. He was a true legend who never made too much of himself, treating every person he met with the same respect and dignity as if they were the most important person in the room.

CONTINUED >

“It was humbling to watch the respect and compassion he poured into every conversation.”

A MISSION OF COMPASSION, MUSIC AND EDUCATION

Dave’s passion for students and education began in the fourth grade when a band played at his school. That moment provided an awakening and defined a life’s mission: to share that spark with as many children as possible.

For almost 40 years, Dave and the Nukes have brought the “Gospel of the Blues” into North Alabama schools. He once told me his greatest reward was seeing the sparkle in a child’s eyes when they connected with the music. To ensure this work continued, the Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation was formed, providing a legacy that will continue to educate and support young students today and in future generations. (microwavedavemef.org ).

THE MUSICIAN’S MUSICIAN

Dave’s love for Huntsville and the music community was legendary. He “reluctantly” was the first musician to receive a mayoral proclamation in his honor in 2015 and a key to the city. Soon after, “Microwave Dave Day”, a music festival was established where he used the key as a slide. He never believed he was worthy of any of the accolades and recognition, always choosing the path of humility.

Dave was a “musician’s musician,” attending as many local shows as humanly possible during his free time and constantly offering his love and encouragement. I’d often see him pull cash from his overalls to secretly pad a tip jar.

Whether Dave was playing for one person or a thousand, he performed with

the same infectious energy. His 50-year career was a Who’s Who of icons, having shared stages with the likes of Greg Allman, Aretha Franklin, Little Richard, Johnny Shines, Travis Wommack and Buddy Guy. Yet, he always felt he owed his best performance to whoever showed up to listen.

In 2021, when the Foundation produced a book titled, “I’m A Road Runner” on his life, famed author and Nukes aficionado, Stephen King wrote the foreword, perfectly concluding: “God Bless Microwave Dave. He’s a Road Runner, Honey.”

THE POWER OF FISH SPEAK

Of all my memories, which would be too many to share, there is one that resonates and illustrates his empathy the best. We met regularly at a local diner, where Dave always insisted on a specific two-seat booth facing a wall of aquariums. He would stand in silence at that one tank when we arrived and again before we left.

Once, I arrived early and requested a different booth. The disappointment on his face was so genuine we moved immediately.

Dave later shared the reason on Facebook: One evening he noticed an angelfish “beckoning” him to the glass. He finally got up and went around to the other side only to realize the fish’s partner had passed away and was lying at the bottom of the tank. Dave was deeply moved by the creature’s grief. Today, a small plaque featuring an angelfish in overalls sits above that booth in his honor.

A SOUL FOR SERVICE AND COMMUNITY

Dave was very protective of his personal life, his family, his faith and spiritual journey and his politics. His adherence to the teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi brought his love for all living things into focus. His Rector, The Rev. T. Michael Goldsmith of the Episcopal Church of the Nativity, said it best: “Saint Francis’ rule

of life included vows of poverty and obedience, rules which Dave lived out in his own life. Always with the kindness and openness of a mystic, Dave continually sought a deeper relationship with Christ through his service to others—especially those who felt the weight of poverty in our own community.”

We could all learn a lesson or two about being a better human from him. He not only talked the talk, but he walked the walk! He was the iconic bluesman, the best of friends, and a tireless giver.

He left us far too soon, but he did it his way. Later this year the city of Huntsville will honor Dave’s legacy with renaming a street and naming a dog park in his honor.

BEEP BEEP!

“He was the iconic bluesman, the best of friends, and a tireless giver. ”

ARTICLE BY AMY BAILEY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY JENNI PATE BUCKLEY

FATHER/ DAUGHTER HOLE IN ONE

A LEGACY LIKE NO OTHER

“Alabama was probably the most important part of my career + my life. I learned more in those last 4 years than I learned in my whole life,” says golf champion Jerry Pate.

Pate rose to national prominence while attending the University of Alabama, where he became one of the most decorated collegiate golfers in the program’s history. His time in Tuscaloosa helped shape his disciplined playing style and competitive mindset, culminating in his victory at the 1974 U.S. Amateur - an early sign that he would soon make waves on the professional stage.

Turning professional in 1975, Pate wasted little time making an impact on the PGA Tour. In 1976, during his rookie season, he achieved one of the sport’s highest honors by winning the U.S. Open at Atlanta Athletic Club. That victory not only cemented his place among golf’s elite but also earned him Rookie of the Year honors. Known for his steady demeanor and exceptional putting ability, Pate went on to win multiple PGA Tour events, becoming a

respected and consistent presence in professional golf throughout the late 1970s and 1980s.

Pate’s career didn’t follow a perfect path. He was at the top of his game early on—winning the U.S. Amateur in 74, the U.S. Open in 76, Ryder cup in 1981 and The Players Championship in 1982, along with 15 PGA Tour events before the age of 28. “My dad was co-player of the year with Jack Nicklaus, and rookie of the year in 1976, but an injury at 28 changed everything. One swing altered the trajectory of his career. Most people would see that as the end, but for him it wasn’t. He saw other career opportunities— but he never gave up on competing,” says Pate’s daughter Jenni Buckley, who is now part of her dad’s business.

Six surgeries later, he came back and won again—winning the 2006 Outback Steakhouse Pro-Am and the 2008 Turtle Bay Championship on the Champions Tour. “Watching that firsthand taught me that resilience isn’t just about moving on—it’s about finding a way to keep going, even when the odds are against you,” states Jenni.

She continues, “He adapted. He became a broadcaster, a golf course architect, and built a business that now impacts hundreds of families. Watching that taught me that resilience isn’t about avoiding setbacks—it’s about how you respond when everything changes.”

Pate’s influence endured well beyond his competitive years. He now finds success in golf course design and remains an ambassador for the sport, often reflecting on how his formative years at Alabama shaped both his career and character.

“Having all of my kids by my side, has been a wonderful experience. Although my children were very young, when I went on the PGA Tour prior to injury, I had some success later on the champions tour where they were able to enjoy with me. Jenni has always been very positive and a competitor. She caddied in several tournaments for me, including majors. She’s not only kept me motivated, but she can read putts well and knows exactly what to do,” says Jerry.

Jenni smiles, “I didn’t grow up playing a lot of golf. I played some when I was younger, but it wasn’t until around 2016 that I really committed to the game. One of my biggest motivations was the PNC Championship—my brother Wesley had played in it 13 times with my dad, and it became a personal goal of mine to one day be able to do the same.” Jenni continues, “I worked hard and got my handicap down to a 4 quickly, but more importantly, I started to truly fall in love with the game of golf.”

What really changed everything for Jenni was caddying for her dad. The first time she caddied for him was at a Champions Tour event in

2005, and then she carried the bag during the Masters Par 3 in 2011 and again in 2016. “It wasn’t until later—starting with the 2018 Senior British Open at St Andrews, which was a dream come true—that I really stepped into that role more consistently, along with the Senior PGA, Regions and many more, and I continued with him on the Champions Tour through his final tournament at Pebble Beach in 2021.”

“Being alongside him during that time gave me a completely different perspective. I wasn’t just watching from the outside—I was inside the ropes, experiencing the pressure, the preparation, and the mindset it takes to compete at that level,” Jenni reflects.

Jerry remembers, “Playing in the PNC Father and Son/Daughter tournament in Orlando at the Ritz Carlton Grand Lakes was as rewarding as any event I have competed. We had a terrific two days of competition and when she out drove Jack Nicklaus on the last hole from the same tees, that was the best.” He smiles, “Jack did a great video about that moment and day on social media, which made it even more special especially since Jack flew one of his puppies up to our home in Pensacola from Palm Beach back in 1979 to give to Jenni for a first birthday present. It was President Ford’s Gold Retriever’s grand-dog.”

Jerry continues, “Traveling around the world with Jenni to different functions has created a bond with her and my wife Soozi that is hard to describe from the British Opens in Scotland and England to golf in Japan. Once your children are grown and have had their own children and they still enjoy being around their

“ONE OF THE BIGGEST LESSONS THAT I HAVE LEARNED FROM MY DAD IS THAT PRESSURE COMES WITH THE OPPORTUNITY. YOU DON’T RUN FROM IT—YOU LEARN TO HANDLE IT, ONE DAY AND ROUND AT A TIME.”

parents regularly, you know you did a good job of raising them and that they are solid citizens that understand respect for their mother and father. That is biblical, that is family, that is true love.”

“One of the biggest lessons that I have learned from my dad is that pressure comes with the opportunity. You don’t run from it—you learn to handle it, one day and round at a time. And I’m still working on that,” states Jenni.

Traveling and working together has been a gift to the Pate family. “You don’t always get this kind of time with your children as they get older, and being able to share the game and those experiences together has brought us closer in a way that probably wouldn’t have happened otherwise,” Jerry says.

“What’s really unique is that I get to work with my family - not just my dad, but my brothers, my uncle, and cousins. Some days it can be a lot, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Not many people get that kind of time together, especially as adults,” expresses Jenni. “Beyond the travel and work, it’s the simple moments that mean the most—being on the golf course with my dad, playing, laughing, and just enjoying the game together. That’s something I’ll never take for granted.”

A moment that holds deep meaning for Jenni was when Jerry went back and finished his degree at the University of Alabama. “We actually graduated together in 2001—something neither of us will ever forget. He didn’t have to do it, but he wanted to prove to himself that it mattered or maybe he just didn’t want me to be the first person in our family to get a college degree haha. That moment really defined who he is—someone who never stops pushing himself.”

As for continuing the family legacy Jenni says, “I would love to see my dad finish his book. He already has so many chapters written, and the stories he has, from life on tour to building a successful business—are unbelievable. I could listen to them over and

over.” She laughs, “Well, maybe there are a couple I’ve heard one too many times, but he’s an incredible storyteller.”

But beyond that, the biggest impact he’s had on Jenni isn’t just what he’s accomplished - it’s how he’s lived. “My dad has always emphasized putting God first, family second, and work third. That’s not just something he says, it’s how he runs his life and his business. He constantly reminds the people who work with him to prioritize their families, and I’ve watched him live that out in a very real way.”

Jenni says, “My dad has even said that getting injured at 28 may have been one of the best things that ever happened to him. At the time, it changed everything—but looking back, it opened doors none of us could have planned.”

Because of that pivot, Pate built a business that now provides opportunities for hundreds of families. And it’s given his family the chance to work alongside him and be part of something bigger. Jerry says, “I truly believe it was a blessing in disguise—one of those moments where God has a plan even when we don’t fully understand it.”

“Legacy is not just about success - it’s about impact. And for me, carrying that forward means living with that same mindset: putting faith and family first, and using whatever platform or opportunity I have to give back and make a difference in other people’s lives,” Jenni states.

This story is one of talent honed through discipline, family, and a lifelong love of the game of golf that has defined the Pate legacy.

SMALL GROUP CLASSES

SELF MADE MANN

Tyler Mann shares his story

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY TYLER MANN Lawyer and Sports Agent

Tyler Mann has built a multi-faceted career founded on hard work, consistency, and showing up as a leader.

After graduating from the University of Alabama, Tyler worked as an insurance adjuster in Birmingham. “On weekends, I played flag football and ended up meeting a group of

“Difficult moments aren’t there to break us, but to build us.”

lawyers, one of whom offered me a job at his personal injury firm. I quickly realized how much I loved helping people through difficult situations and seeing tangible impact. I attended Birmingham School of Law at night while working full-time, finished in three years without breaks, and passed the bar on my first attempt. It was one of the best decisions I’ve made.”

Starting out in his career young, Mann dealt with a lot of self-doubt, questioning whether he could make it in a competitive industry where reputation takes time to build. What helped most was a strong support system of friends and family who believed in him and pushed him to stay the course. “With a business background, I also focused on not just doing strong legal work, but building systems and processes that could scale. Looking back, that foundation was invaluable as the firm grew,” Mann says.

And as his law career grew so did the interest in becoming an NFL agent. “Sports have always been a

big part of my life. While I couldn’t play at the highest level, I knew I wanted to stay connected to that world.”

He continues, “I met Derek Simpson, an attorney and agent who encouraged me to pursue NFL and CFL certifications. That led to co-founding Pro One Athlete Agency. We’ve been fortunate to represent great players, but the relationships we’ve built with them and their families are the most rewarding part.”

Resilience is something Mann learned early, especially from watching his mom care for his dad, who died of cancer, without complaint. “On tough days, I think about my family, my clients, and my players who rely on me. That responsibility motivates me. I also believe challenges are opportunities to grow. ‘The hottest fires forge the hardest steel.’ “

While big case results and helping athletes reach the NFL are incredible, what he values most is the journey—especially building his law firm. “We’ve grown from a small office to moving into a

10,000-square-foot space, and that wouldn’t be possible without an amazing team.” He continues, “Culture isn’t forced; it’s built by people who show up every day committed to a shared mission. I’m grateful to work alongside them.”

“I try to operate on simple principles: treat people the right way, hold yourself to a high standard, and stay humble. My parents, coaches, and teachers instilled those values early. I also believe in surrounding myself with people who challenge me - I want to keep learning and growing,” says Mann. “The lessons we learn early in life often provide clarity when things get complicated.”

Mann defines success by how he impacts others, whether that’s helping a client, supporting a player, or giving back to the community. “I feel fortunate to do work I love every day, and that’s what success means to me now.”

His advice to young people, “Ask questions and learn from others who’ve done what you’re trying to do. Stay flexible, be disciplined, embrace failure, and surround yourself with good people.”

Family is also foremost in Tyler’s life. Watching his father battle cancer at a young age was devastating and changed how he approaches being a father. “I try to be present in every moment with my kids,” says Mann.

DAILY SUCCESS HABITS?

I try to tackle the hardest tasks first. It sets the tone for the day. I also prioritize staying active. Working out helps me stay mentally sharp and focused, even when things get hectic.

FAVORITE BOOK

I’m currently reading the Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman—a fun fantasy series in the vein of Dungeons & Dragons, which I also enjoy.

FAVORITE QUOTE

Isaiah 6:8  “Here am I. Send me.”

FAVORITE HOBBY

I still love playing sports and compete in a local wood bat baseball league. I also enjoy weightlifting, reading, and making shoes..I’m a trained sneaker cobbler, which most people don’t know.

Love Your Joints

As we age, our joints naturally experience wear and tear, often leading to osteoarthritis. While this process is common, there are steps we can take to prevent or slow its progression by investing in our overall health. As a joint replacement specialist at SportsMED, I’ve seen how proactive care can help patients avoid surgery. And if you’re already dealing with joint pain, it’s important to know that effective treatment options are available. You don’t have to live with chronic discomfort.

Joint issues often develop gradually, starting with mild aches and stiffness that are easy to ignore or dismiss as normal aging. Over time, however, these symptoms can worsen. In some cases, joint replacement becomes necessary, but early intervention can make a significant difference. Whether through prevention or treatment, prioritizing joint health can reduce the risk of more serious limitations later on.

If you’re experiencing persistent pain or have been diagnosed with arthritis, seeking care early is key. Many patients are able to return to, or even exceed, their previous activity levels after treatment, including joint replacement when needed. That said, every case is different, and honest evaluation is important. I’ve also seen the devastating loss of mobility, independence, and quality of life when joint pain is left unaddressed. It doesn’t have to get to that point.

There are several practical ways to support joint health: Regular exercise is essential. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling help maintain flexibility and overall health. Strengthening the muscles around joints provides better support and reduces stress on the joints themselves. Maintaining a healthy weight is also critical, as excess weight places added strain on hips and knees and can accelerate joint degeneration. Listening to your body is so important. Persistent or unusual pain shouldn’t be ignored, as early treatment can prevent more serious issues.

Finally, staying active in the things you enjoy helps support both physical and mental well-being.

If you’re ready to take the next step, I’m currently accepting patients at SportsMED locations in Huntsville, Athens, Madison, and Decatur. To schedule an appointment, call 256-881-5151.

ARTICLE BY DR. ZACHARY MOSHER, SPORTSMED

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Pushing the Limits

GOING TO EXTREMES WITH THESE HUNTSVILLE MEN

Each of these men are united by a need for adventure, restless pursuit of adrenaline, and the kind of experiences that undeniably push you far out of your comfort zone to reflect on who you are, what discipline means, and how resilience shapes the soul.

What first drew you to the Iditarod Trail Invitational?

When I began ultra-running in the mid-1990s, I discovered winter ultras through Ultrarunning Magazine. Races like the Susitna 100 and the seemingly impossible Iditasport Extreme (300+ miles) and Impossible (~1000 miles) felt completely out of reach. Still, I followed them closely, studying race reports, gear choices, and layering strategies. Over time, as I took on bigger challenges, the idea no longer felt impossible. Without realizing it, I was preparing for the Iditarod Trail Invitational. In 2020, I finally raced, and finished, the 350-mile route to McGrath.

“The physical demands of the race quickly wear you down but the mental aspects are even more demanding.”

Rob Youngren, 51 Computer Scientist

The Iditarod Trail is only passable for a brief winter window, crossing frozen rivers, swamps, and even sea ice. The race covers 350 or 1000 miles from Knik Lake toward Nome, using only human power—foot, ski, or bike. There’s no required gear list, so athletes must rely on experience to carry what’s needed to survive extreme cold, often below -40°F. It’s widely considered a “post-graduate” winter ultra, demanding resilience, preparation, and self-reliance in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

Walk us through the moment you realized how demanding the race would be.

Things got “real” my first year at the ITI almost right away. From the various qualifying events to earn my slot at ITI, I’d grown accustomed to traversing groomed, flat, trails where I could mindlessly plod away at a strong hiking pace for hours without any issues. The Iditarod trail is not flat and it is definitely not a highly manicured route like what I was used to. Instead, after the first hour Out There, it began to snow heavily and would only cease snowing for short periods over the next 8 days of the race. The new snow made the trail extremely soft and difficult to navigate, and the constant soft trail conditions forced me into using snow shoes for almost the duration of the 350 mile race.

The physical demands of the race quickly wear you down but the mental aspects are even more demanding. Once you’re forced to plod along in snow shoes, you quickly start doing the mental calculus and realize you’re going to be Out There a long time, and whatever optimistic time table you’d originally put together was now torched. But all you can do is keep moving forward! CONTINUED

What does a typical day look like during the race?

Ideally a day on the trail starts with a pre-dawn wake-up call and quickly breaking down my sleep system and and going for a run to get warm. Then it’s pretty much an uninterrupted 16-18 hour day of hiking along the snowy trail hauling a 40lb+ anchor with everything I need to survive. Around midnight I start looking for somehere to camp; preferably somewhere among the alder trees or on the leeward side of a hill. Fortunately, most nights, if I had paced myself right, I could make it to an official race checkpoint where I had the opportunity to sleep in a shared cabin or maybe even a real bed! Timing is everything though.

What was the most challenging moment you faced on the trail?

I’ve traveled the Iditarod Trail twice, but my toughest moment came in 2023 while crossing the Alaska Range. After falling behind pace, I had no choice but to push forward through a ground blizzard toward Rainy Pass or risk missing a cutoff. Winds reached 30–40 mph, the trail disappeared beneath blowing snow, and racers around me began dropping out due to illness. Soon, I was completely alone.

Hours into the climb, a powerful gust knocked me down and tore away my hat. It was my best protection against the cold. Shaken and exposed, I had no choice but to keep moving because stopping in those conditions could be deadly. Eventually, doubt set in, and I turned back to quit the race.

Then, out of nowhere, two cyclists emerged from the storm. One told me, “If you turn around now, your race is over.” It was exactly what I needed to hear, so I turned forward again, reached Rainy Pass, and found calm on the other side...a hard-earned reminder to keep going.

What goes through your mind during the long, quiet stretches of a race like this?

I always have A LOT of internal dialog going in my head, so stretches like these it’s just more of the same. One of my roles as a principal computer scientist for Simulation Technologies, Inc (SIMTECH) is a software developer. I’m always thinking of better ways to improve the analysis tools I develop and maintain. It wouldn’t be too uncommon for me to pause to record a few ideas even while out on the trail... But mostly I’m continuing to go through the mental checklist to make sure there isn’t some issue I need to manage at the moment.

How do you prepare in the months leading up to the Iditarod Trail Invitational?

Coming from Alabama I’m uniquely winter challenged when it comes to preparing for any winter ultra. Some of the best advice I’d ever received was to purposefully put myself in as extremely bad weather conditions.  Learning to be comfortable while being uncomfortable would help prepare me to handle the mental aspects of the ITI and other, far less formidable, races.  Since there is no way to

“The building of progressively more and more difficult challenges has shaped me into a more efficient and experienced ultra athlete.”

practice pulling a sled with all my gear for miles and miles on snow trails, I go for the next best thing; rucking or dragging a tire around. Hiking with a 60+lb pack up and down hills really helps prepare my body physically for the rigors of the Iditarod Trail. Dragging a heavy tire around also helps dial in sled harness comfort and rigging. But there is nothing like training in the deep cold and snow, so if it’s possible, I’ll try and use a short winter ultra as a last minute training event to dial in gear, winter camping techniques, etc… before the big dance.

What do you see for the future of your racing endeavors?

The building of progressively more and more difficult challenges has shaped me into a more efficient and experienced ultra athlete. The downside of these ever escalating challenges is that it’s very difficult to get excited about challenges you once thought nearly impossible to finish. Like a drug, the only way to feel that endorphin high is to go bigger, attempt a challenge that’s even more scary than the last one. However, this behavior is unsustainable; something must give eventually. I still have the fire and dream to one day hike the entire Iditarod Trail to Nome BUT I’m constantly fighting those burn out demons and anxiety that comes before such a MONUMENTAL challenge. So I honestly don’t know what’s next for me. I know I’ve changed a lot since I attempted my first winter ultra (and failed) over two decades ago.  While I do have a lot more confidence, experience and wisdom and know I could successfully and safely make it to Nome, I also have deep fear and anxiety that I’ll make a poor decision or face a deadly scenario that could have permanent or life ending consequences. Hiking the Iditarod trail is a foolish endeavor. It’s estimated that there have been 55-65 finishes (many by the same individuals) out of around 110140 foot racers who’ve attempted to hike to Nome. Those are sobering numbers and I’m just not certain I can (or should try again) add to that list. So in the meantime, I’m going to focus on gaining some more winter camping experience in as extreme conditions as possible and tackle some shorter winter ultras to earn redemption, including the infamous Arrowhead Winter Ultra, a 135 mile race in Northern Minnesota in January that I’m currently 0-2 at!

“It taught me resilience— proving I can push further than I think, both on the trail and in everyday life with my family.”

Olly Orton, 47 Real Estate Developer

What first drew you into ultramarathon running?

I hated running most of my life until age 38, when a shoulder injury pushed me to try it differently. Friends showed me trail running and that going slow was okay. I fell in love with the woods and movement. I’d never run more than seven miles, but one day I got lost and ran 14. That sparked curiosity about my limits. I soon completed a 50K and a 40-miler. Ultrarunning became about testing not just my body, but my mind. It taught me resilience—proving I can push further than I think, both on the trail and in everyday life with my family.

What is it that you like about the 100 mile distance?

50Ks are a hard effort I enjoy, but they don’t truly test my mind. I rarely feel the urge to quit at that distance. At 50 miles or 100K, that thought might surface briefly, but it fades, and I can still function the next day. What really draws me in are multi-day stage races, where you commit to long distances day after day as your body steadily breaks down. That’s where the real mental challenge lives. After finishing my first 100-miler and wanting more, I searched for tougher races and found the Dragon’s Back in Wales—a six-day, coast-to-coast traverse. Since then, I’ve chased or created similar challenges with friends.

“Curiosity keeps me chasing new challenges to see how far I can push my body and mind, and whether I can get faster and tougher with age.”

Olly Orton

What’s going through your mind that keeps you moving forward?

Deep into an endurance effort, your body and mind will push you to stop—through pain, doubt, or negative thoughts. How that shows up is different for everyone, but the pull to quit is universal. What helps me is narrowing my focus to the present. Sometimes that’s the next aid station, the next mile, or just the next few steps. In one race, I imagined a line a few steps ahead, ran to it, then moved it forward again—I did that for over an hour. In endurance running, like in life, breaking things into small, manageable pieces makes almost anything possible.

What does training for a long race?

There’s no “typical” training for a 100-miler. Some people run 50–100 miles a week, but with a job and family, I keep it to three days a week, adding a fourth about six weeks out. Because of that, my training is very specific. I work with a coach, and every run is structured—warm-up, steady efforts, strides, sprints, and “Zen running,” which is just a smooth, sustainable pace for a few hours. I also train for race conditions— heat, cold, elevation, technical terrain, even carrying a pack. And I prioritize eating and sleeping, since recovery is key to making the training work.

What continues to motivate you to take on these extreme distances, and what goals are still on your list?

Curiosity keeps me chasing new challenges to see how far I can push my body and mind, and whether I can get faster and tougher with age. It’s also just fun. I get to explore beautiful places with adventurous friends, and the trail running community is incredibly supportive.

I’m especially excited for Lucky 7’s— just me and a friend running mountains across the Southeast, day after day. No start or finish lines, no audience—just running and seeing what we’re capable of.

Ken Smith, 59 Director of Economic Development

What prompted you to pursue endurance sports?

I’ve always loved the call of adventure and being outdoors. Just being in nature makes me feel alive and reminds me of the beautiful world around us. Endurance events have been an extension of that desire for adventure and an opportunity to challenge myself to see how far I can go.

How did going through a major life change (thyroid cancer) influence your decision to push your limits?

Being diagnosed with cancer was definitely a major life event for me. Once the initial shock wore off, I was able to view it as an opportunity to focus on what is important in life, your friends, your family and your health. I started doing triathlons as way to join a community and to stay fit and healthy as I recovered from the effects of the cancer.

What is it about the Ironman level of competition that keeps drawing you back?

I’ve met some of the best friends of my life doing triathlons, and we push and encourage each other to continuously reach higher and higher goals. In Ironman, it’s not necessarily about winning, it’s about setting and facing a challenge that might be out of reach. I may not be the youngest or fastest athlete in the race, but the sense of accomplishment when you see the finish line is amazing motivation knowing you have achieved a goal many people don’t even try.

Of all the races you’ve done, which one tested you the most?

Ironman Maryland is an incredible race near Washington DC. To start the race, you swim 2 ½ miles in the Chesapeake Bay, but the morning of the race we woke up to swarms of jellyfish in the bay. Overcoming obstacles is one of the keys to success in endurance sports and in life, but swimming through thousands of jellyfish that day was definitely a test I will never forget!

“I’ve tried my best to be an example to show that you can do anything you set your mind to.”

How did summiting Mount Kilimanjaro compare to competing in an Ironman?

Climbing to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most epic adventures I have been on. The raw and natural beauty of the African wilderness is something everyone should experience. We were on the mountain for eight days, climbing to a height of 19,300’. This was as much a mental challenge as a physical one, where success is not guaranteed and danger is very real. As with Ironman, setting and achieving big goals brings a huge sense of accomplishment, and it’s also a team effort with much support along the way.

In those moments when your body is telling you to stop, what keeps you going?

Living life without a thyroid is a constant reminder that the body is fragile. I’ve tried my best to be an example to show that you can do anything you set your mind to. I enjoy the opportunity to talk with people who have just learned they may have thyroid cancer and are scared about the path forward. Knowing I can tell them that I didn’t stop is incredible motivation for me to keep going so that I can be an example and encouragement for others.

“Climbing to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most epic adventures I have been on.”

What does your training routine look like?

Training with friends is always the best. The ability to ride bikes on Redstone Arsenal on the weekends is a great benefit of living in Huntsville. Long runs are usually on Saturday mornings either on Monte Sano or up and over Cecil Ashburn. We also swim in Guntersville with a stop for Mexican food afterward. When training for Mount Kilimanjaro, I found the steepest trails in Huntsville and spent one night doing 5 hours of stair repeats on the steps at Big Spring Park. People from the restaurant even came out to see what I was doing since they had been watching the whole time.

What’s next for you, and how far do you still want to push your limits?

I am always open to whatever life brings next. Whether that is climbing the next mountain or hiking across Spain, I want to enjoy the adventure and the people along the way. I think I will continue to explore and push my boundaries for as long as I am able and am definitely looking forward to whatever that next adventure may be.

DON’T CHASE THE KILL. CHASE THE EXPERIENCE.

KENNY WINTER SHARES HIS SECRET FOR SUCCESS AS A BUSINESS OWNER AND OUTDOORSMAN

ARTICLE BY COOPER SMITHERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Outdoorsman. Business owner. Husband. Father. Kenny Winter goes by many titles, but these titles are only a gateway into understanding a man who is driven by his passion. While his thriving businesses can serve as a model to others seeking success, Kenny believes anyone’s story should start with developing the right mindset.

Kenny’s story began when he discovered his fascination with the great outdoors. His father was a farmer, and Kenny hunted any wild animal he could find on the farm. Over time, he realized that what he enjoyed wasn’t the kill. He just wanted a reason to be immersed in nature. When I asked Kenny how his hunting experiences have shaped his professional life, he claimed, “I knew I wanted to be outside. I never wanted to work in an office setting. And when a door opened up, I had to be willing to risk it all.”

As a child, Kenny spent a lot of time with his grandfather, a master carpenter, on job sites to learn the trade. This knowledge, coupled with his desire to follow his heart, led Kenny to build his first house for himself and his wife, Shana. They lived there for only 6 months before a real estate agent made an offer on the house. After some deliberation, they followed their hearts again and sold the house. Kenny decided he enjoyed the experience so much that, with Shana’s support, he would open his first business: Winter Homes.

While it began as a side business to help others build their dream home, Winter Homes grew so much over 13 years that Kenny had to make a choice. He could continue working his full-time management job at the bank, or he could place all of his chips on Winter Homes. After celebrating the 25 th anniversary of Winter Homes

this past February, building close to 2,000 houses across 25 communities, and even donating some profits to the Stacey Wolfe Breast Cancer Foundation and the construction of the new Athens High School, Kenny has no regrets about betting on himself. Kenny credits his team’s shared mindset for building a productive and uplifting work culture. He claims, “if you have stability with your team, you deliver good products.”

However, Kenny didn’t miss the irony that, as CEO of Winter Homes, he now had to spend most of his days in the office. Accordingly, he has tried to find as many ways to stay connected to the outdoors as possible. Another solution seemingly happened upon him: St. Nick’s Knives, his father’s knife store. In 2007, Kenny convinced him to open another location in Huntsville. After his father got sick in 2014, Kenny said, “I felt guilty, so I bought the Huntsville store with the intention of closing it after finishing the lease.”

CONTINUED >

But Kenny didn’t realize that, to see this goal through, he needed someone else to run the store so that he could focus on closing. In turn, he had to open more stores in Athens and Florence to make up for lost profits. After making these changes and still not turning a profit, Kenny remembered that he couldn’t chase a predetermined result. However, he could chase his dream of owning a full-fledged outdoors store. Once he took the next step and added firearms to the Athens location in April 2020, the business took off. He rebranded it to Winter Timber Outdoors and fully committed to building the brand. He has since opened a second location in Auburn and plans to open another in Olive Branch, Mississippi.

Kenny has always found that remaining a patient yet motivated hunter drives his success. When I asked Kenny what an aspiring hunter should keep in mind, he proudly told me, “If you’re going to be a hunter, be a good hunter. And my definition of that is conservation.” In Kenny’s opinion, too many people want a specific kill. The bad hunter may spend a whole weekend watching turkey, rabbits, deer, or even snakes slip through their grasp and feel like they got nothing out of the experience. The good hunter is “all about the experience, spending time with family, and finding peace in the outdoors.”

“I KNEW I WANTED TO BE OUTSIDE. I NEVER WANTED TO WORK IN AN OFFICE SETTING. AND WHEN A DOOR OPENED UP, I HAD TO BE WILLING TO RISK IT ALL.”

As Kenny pursues the 49 Fly Downs challenge while balancing his business endeavors and family life, he hopes he can encourage others to fuel their lives with passion. This challenge, which requires hunting one turkey in each of 49 states (excluding Alaska), may seem daunting. But Kenny is enjoying the ride as he always has, and he has crossed 6 states off the list so far. Eventually, he aims to mount every bird in Winter Timber Outdoors to remind every visitor that patience rewards the dedicated hunter. Chasing the experience will always take priority over chasing the kill.

How Black Crow Building Co brought this golf simulator room from concept to reality

TEE IT UP

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL PRITCHETT

When Bradley Hamner envisioned his new Lendon home, he had a vision in mind. As a former Auburn University golfer, golf is weaved into his family and lifestyle, so having a golf simulator right in his home was a dream. “The golf simulator was part of the vision from the very beginning, allowing the entire space to be designed around it rather than trying to incorporate it later.” says Black Crow Building Co owner, Landon Dalton.

While the simulator serves as the focal point, the room was designed as a multipurpose space, including a lounge area, dry bar, home office, full bathroom, and dedicated storage. The goal was to create a space that supports everyday living as much as it does entertainment, making it useful for the whole family. Bradley explains, “My son is really into golf as well, so it’s nice to be able to come up and play a round with him or work on his form together,” He continues “Last weekend we played 18 holes at The Ledges and then he came home and played three more rounds with a friend.”

Several elements guided the design process. The simulator needed to deliver a high-quality experience, so performance was key, but versatility was equally important. The space had to function as a professional office for Bradley and a comfortable, recreational space for adults and children.

Achieving this balance required thoughtful design decisions. Bradley visited commercial simulator spaces for inspiration, and

Black Crow Building worked closely with the architect, designer Madalyn Ingram, and technology teams to ensure every detail was aligned. Mariah Golden of Black Crow laughs “We were in this public golf simulator with our design team touching the walls and measuring the ceilings to make sure we got it right.” The simulator is recessed into a wall pocket, giving it a built-in, seamless appearance. A multi-level flooring system allows the carpet and turf to sit flush, creating a clean look while improving functionality. Lighting, spacing were carefully considered to ensure the room performs well without sacrificing comfort.

Aesthetically, the space was designed to feel timeless and personal. Sherwin Williams ‘Sea Serpent’ was chosen for the walls and cabinets creating a rich, moody palette, combined with aged brass lighting and Black Pearl Honed Granite for a polished, refined atmosphere. Special attention was given to the professional backdrop on the office side with built in shelving and natural light from exterior windows.

This is a space where Bradley can decompress by gathering with the guys and doing what he loves most, and the fact that he has a space at home to enjoy a fun night in with his family makes it even sweeter. After a lot of thought, planning, and visualizing, together with Black Crow Building Co they really did create the ultimate man cave.

The

It’s easy to lose track of your fin ances when your days are filled with other responsibilities. As Morgan S tanley Financial Advisors, we can work w ith you to understand your goals and help you create an investment strategy that’s right for you. We strive to help you stay on track for your future so you can focus on all that’s

HIGH TECH AT HOME

ARTICLE BY JOSUE JUAREZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOE DAVIS

Located at the end of University Drive in Huntsville, Alabama, AVIQ was created for audio enthusiasts seeking a simple, easy-to-understand way to set up their high-quality Hi-Fi system. It is not just a store with high-end products; the AVIQ staff has years of experience across many areas of the audio industry. In addition, AVIQ has a unique history that has helped provide musical entertainment through concert piano performances and video content for families. All these factors come together to create an environment that feels like a movie theatre, with high-quality sound. During my guided tour, I learned about the latest technology curated by the knowledgeable team, including Michael Burleson and Chip Bowen, who welcomed my questions. Chip noted, “If you don’t feel lost in the music, we can help with that.”

It’s one thing to experience AVIQ’s demo cinema in their University Drive showroom. It’s another to see that philosophy come to life inside a Huntsville home. As Matt Roha and his family spent the 2020 lockdown together, they considered creating their own home media room after staying in a vacation rental in Florida with a full surround-sound system and projector setup. Seeing his wife and kids enjoy the vacation rental as a family made Matt realize that it was possible to have a cinematic escape without owning a mansion.

Why should homeowners view a professional design media room as an investment rather than a luxury? Michael was quick to assure me, “Well, if you’re investing in entertainment, you’re investing in being able to entertain.” It’s easy to think of such a niche as available only to specific audiences, but at AVIQ, that misses the bigger picture. Michael highlights AVIQ’s tailored emerging technology solutions, emphasizing long-lasting media room designs and expert knowledge to enable easy upgrades. For the Roha family, that mindset shaped their new construction

home in Huntsville. With inventory tight, they chose to build. When reviewing floor plans, Matt identified potential in a bonus room within the McMullen layout. To support a true projection setup, the builder squared the dormer to achieve more than 18 feet of usable depth—enough to engineer a dedicated theater rather than a large television room. It wasn’t an afterthought. It was built into the home’s structure.

That principle guided the Roha’s theatre budget. Because it was anticipated that the majority of material would be consumed using either 4K Blu-rays or via streaming, AVIQ’s recommendation was to place responsibility on a surround sound system (7.1) rather than to spend too much on the projector. A riser for the second row of seats was constructed to maintain direct sightlines during house construction, and the room was pre-wired for network services, speakers, and electrical service prior to drywall installation. This type of advance planning helped avoid retrofitting expenses at a later date.

Many DIY builders mistakenly believe that more is better, leading to future upgrade costs due to underperforming equipment. As with any industry, it’s imperative to consider how the technology unfolding within it influences it, and that’s critical in the AVIQ operating space, which assesses what makes a worthy investment in home entertainment. Michael notes that one of the top things to monitor is the quality of input to the various home systems. Chip adds proudly, “The most important thing is what you feed the equipment. Michael highlights the importance of server-based platforms for delivering studio-level streaming, allowing homeowners to achieve cinematic sound that often exceeds Blu-ray quality. The key factor in AV design is content quality, which drives optimal delivery.

Now, performance can be calculated easily, but the next most crucial factor AVIQ considers is personal aesthetics. Everyone who walks through the doors has their own personalization, reflected in the colors they prefer and the tone they aim to establish in their spaces. Michael happily exclaims, “You know, if all you get is a piece of paper like this and it says, here’s everything I’m putting in your room and here’s the price, you’re not doing your job.

The professional won’t do that.” Both he and Chip have strong customer connection skills. To align aesthetic choices with personalized budgets, AVIQ meets with clients before starting designs. At the Roha home, that collaboration spanned months. The finished space features custom cabinetry, concession countertops from Stone Cutters Guild of Huntsville, a lit candy counter, and illuminated poster displays from Glowbox and Digital Movie Boards. When guests arrive, pre-show music plays through the WIIM system installed throughout the house, building anticipation for the film.

“WELL, IF YOU’RE INVESTING IN ENTERTAINMENT, YOU’RE INVESTING IN BEING ABLE TO ENTERTAIN.”

The intended goal is to control the sound, not to completely absorb it all or muffle it. Michael notes, “You don’t want to suck all of the energy of the sound out of the room and turn it into heat, which is what soundproofing does. It absorbs it, it changes.”Finding an appropriate response to the challenges of sound treatment is about getting the right amount of treatment in a room—not too little and not too much. A room can become “dead” (no sound) if it is overtreated with sound-absorbing materials, or it can become “muddied” in sound if it is undertreated with those same materials, so the quality of the sound will suffer. To avoid creating “dead” acoustical areas (areas without sound), the seating was carefully measured during the bonus room design (e.g., Roha project) to conserve acoustic energy and maintain vocal clarity for the 7.1 surround layout used in this project.

The utility of these multimedia rooms lies in their multifaceted design. Whether you’re looking to watch Star Wars once a day or host a space for kids, a multimedia room can be configured for any use! Some hosts may opt for a dedicated home theater, while others focus on televised events to create a sense of suspension of disbelief.

Lighting plays a crucial role in this flexibility, primarily in three methods: pre-show ambience, dimming control, and automation control. A reliable lighting system ensures anyone can use the room without the frustration of confusing controls. In the Roha theater, Lutron remote dimming allows the space to shift from bright family gathering to full cinematic darkness in seconds. The wow factor begins the moment you step inside — eyes drawn first to illuminated posters, then to the glowing concession counter before settling on the projection screen. For its customers, AVIQ considers the existing wiring system to maximize what is already available and deliver a high-quality lighting system. While seemingly inconsequential, this approach can produce a warm, refreshing, and inviting room.

For homeowners considering a media room upgrade, the key consideration is the budget. Success in this compartment isn’t defined by how loud the room can deliver or the size of the speakers; instead, it should answer the question: What is the purpose of this intended space?

Michael says, “Someone may want audio that blows their hair back, then another person may not even want to see the speakers and only have background music.” It’s the combination of sound and sight that significantly enhances a media room, moving it beyond luxury to a worthy investment in how a home is lived in and enjoyed.

ARTICLE BY NEELY BRITT OWNER OF WELLKEPT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Guys Who Green

WELL-KEPT FOUNDER NEELY BRITT SHARES GOLF MUST HAVES

Whether your guy golfs every week, has a putting green at home, or just loves the game - we've scouted some stellar must haves for the guy who loves the greens.

Oakley Flak, Prism Golf Lens $214

Oakley Prizm Golf lenses are specifically engineered to enhance contrast and color, helping golfers distinguish between shades of green, read putting greens, and track the ball against blue skies.

FIELDBAR Drink Box, $249

Superior thermal performance and perfectly proportioned, this cooler is everything you’d expect from a modern, premium design.

Revolution Reel Roller $2800

High-performance, commercial-grade reel mower designed by Reel Rollers for residential lawn care, particularly for achieving a low-cut, striped “golf course” look.

Fore Fathers, Turf Dad Shirt $79

From the boardroom to the back nine, barbeque to bath time, changing diapers to changing the oil, these polos are beautifully designed, thoughtfully tailored, ultra-comfortable.

Well-Kept, Tee Time Screen & Lens Wipes $7

Easy to use pre-moistened towelettes. Nonabrasive. Anti-static. Silicone free. Leaves no residue on your lens or screens.

WHAT A FATHER SAYS IN THE ORDINARY MOMENTS BECOMES THE VOICE HIS DAUGHTER CARRIES INTO EVERY ROOM SHE’LL EVER WALK INTO.

FATHERS BE GOOD TO YOUR DAUGHTERS

My dad used to ask me every morning at school drop-off, “Hey, Steph… have I told you lately that I love you?” I was seven, and genuinely worried about his memory.

It would be another two decades before I connected the Rod Stewart classic to one of my core childhood memories, and realized what he was really giving me wasn’t a line, but an anchor.

I didn’t have words for it then, but I do now: when a dad says something steady enough, it becomes a soundtrack. Something you can reach for later, when life gets louder.

Your daughter will collect opinions about herself from a hundred places. Yours is the one that lands first… let it be the one her nervous system files under true.

ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE CASHIN

A good father doesn’t take all the fear away. But over time, in a hundred ordinary moments — a car ride, a kitchen conversation, a quiet I’m proud of you , a calm presence after a hard day — he helps his daughter build something most anxious people are desperately trying to find as adults: a steady place to stand.

And once she has that, the world is still demanding. But it’s not quite as terrifying.

Here’s what the research shows, and why it matters more than most fathers realize: the quality of the father-daughter relationship is measurable, not just emotionally, but biologically. Studies examining stress hormones in young women found that daughters who experienced warmth, consistency, and emotional support from their fathers showed lower baseline stress levels and more regulated responses when life got hard. Alternately, daughters who experienced distance, unpredictability, or rejection carried that in their bodies — a nervous system that stayed braced, even in safe situations, even years later.

A warm father doesn’t just make a daughter feel loved. He helps her body learn that the world is survivable. That people can be trusted. That she doesn’t have to brace for impact every time she walks into a room.

That isn’t sentiment. That’s physiology. And it starts earlier than most fathers know.

The father-daughter relationship is a daughter’s first experience of how a man sees her. Long before she has language for worth or value, she is already learning from the way he speaks to her, shows up for her, repairs after conflict, and stays present in the small moments what she can expect from the men who will follow.

Research consistently shows that daughters with positive, secure relationships with their fathers are more trusting in their romantic relationships, more confident in conflict, and more capable of emotional intimacy as adults. Not because fathers are the only influence but because they are the first male-female relationship a daughter ever navigates. And the nervous system takes notes.

The template gets set quietly, in the ordinary moments. The way he listens when she’s mid-ramble about something that “doesn’t matter”. The way he stays in the room after something hard. The way he repairs-or doesn’t. The way she watches him speak to her mother.

She is learning what she is worth in a man’s eyes. She is learning whether men can be safe. She is learning how much of herself she should have to give away to be loved.

Fathers set that standard not once, not in a speech, but in a thousand moments he probably won’t remember and she almost certainly will.

When women talk about their dads in my office, there’s often a tenderness that surprises them. Not because every story is perfect but because the moments that mattered were so specific. A letter kept in a drawer. A trip at nine. A camp weekend where a father showed up, fully there. Small, ordinary proof that read, in her heart, as something much larger:

I’m worth showing up for.

I asked some of my favorite women for their favorite memory with their dad. What came back wasn’t grand gestures or milestone speeches. It was this:

“He encouraged me to explore and travel.” — Jane, 62

“He took each of us on a dad/daughter trip when we turned 13.” — Bri, 32

“He taught me about finances and let me ask him questions as many times as I needed” — Laura W, 46

“My dad could always fix anything- and now I have the confidence to try and fix things myself before calling for help.” — Laura J, 28

“He always gave me career advice, reviewed my resumes, and practiced interviews with me. He always encouraged me to be ambitious and successful.” — Julia, 34

“He makes me quesadillas!” — Savvy, 4

The anchor gets dropped in the ordinary moments: a trip, a practice interview, a kitchen Tuesday night and a daughter carries it for the rest of her life without always knowing that’s what she’s holding.

And that belief quiet, bone-deep, early turns out to change everything. Research following young women found that a positive father-daughter bond builds internal self-confidence first, which then grows into external confidence, which in turn shapes how a woman makes decisions — in her career, her relationships, her sense of what she deserves. The chain is long. But it starts with something as simple as a father who shows up consistently and says, without drama, you matter to me

Not a perfect father. Not an always-available father. A present one.

“What if I’m not good at this?”

A lot of fathers are tender in ways they don’t have language for. They show love through fixing things, providing, teasing, coaching. Sometimes emotional conversation feels like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without instructions. You know the finished product is supposed to look good, but nothing seems to click into place the way you planned.

If that’s you - take a breath. You’re doing great.

Because here’s the grace in all of this: your daughter isn’t looking for a perfect script. She’s looking for proof that you’re paying attention. A question that’s actually curious. A silence that’s actually comfortable. An apology when you got something wrong. A hug that’s not rushed. A simple, repeated thing… even something silly, even something borrowed from Rod Stewart, that tells her she exists in your mind when she’s not in the room.

You don’t have to get every conversation right. You just have to keep showing up.

It’s not the grand gestures, not the milestone speeches, not the perfectly-worded advice. What stays is the steady thing. The repeated thing. The thing she didn’t have to earn.

A father’s love, offered consistently and without condition, becomes the quietest and most powerful voice in a woman’s life. It’s the one she’ll reach for when she’s doubting herself in a boardroom, choosing a partner, deciding what she deserves, or trying to figure out if she’s worth the space she takes up.

She’ll reach for what you gave her.

Make sure it sounds like love.

Compassionate, Comprehensive THERAPY

If you’re tired of holding everything together, you’re not alone. You’re capable, but overwhelmed. When burnout keeps circling back and “I’ll figure it out” no longer works, it’s time for support. You deserve a therapist who sees the full picture... your hormones, trauma, sleep, cycles, and emotional health. Together, we’ll help you find lasting peace so you can feel like yourself again.

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Congratulations to our 2026 Directors

RECOGNIZING ADVISORS WHO EXEMPLIFY OUR CORE VALUES, LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT TO EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE.

Each year, Engel & Völkers recognizes advisors whose performance, leadership and dedication reflect the very best of our global brand. Our 2026 Directors are trusted experts who enrich the Engel & Völkers' experience across North Alabama guiding clients with professionalism, local insight and mastery within their specialty fields. Their continued contributions strengthen our shops, elevate our service offering and uphold our reputation for luxury service throughout the region.

BRIAN MAY • MRP Advisor Director of Regional Sales brian.may@evrealestate.com

SHALU HOLMAN • CLHMS

Associate Broker Director of Luxury Sales shalu.holman@evrealestate.com

MIKE FLEMING • SRES

Associate Broker Director of Commercial Services mike.fleming@evrealestate.com

CHARLIE WELLS

Associate Broker Director of Luxury Historic Properties charlie.wells@evrealestate.com

CONNOR BROOKMAN

Qualifying Broker Director of Development Services connor.brookman@evrealestate.com

3 Ledge View Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35802

8 BD / 11 BA / 13,716 SQ.FT. | Experience elevated living in The Ledges, Huntsville’s premier gated golf community. This private estate offers stunning bluff views, refined architectural details, multiple suites, elevator access, and access to resortstyle amenities for true luxury living.

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262 County Road 664, Coffee Springs, AL, 36318

26 Acre Estate in Southeast Alabama

$2,995,000

3 BD / 4 BA / 2,582 SQ.FT. | This remarkable 26-acre property features five distinct buildings, including a main house, historic cabin, boathouse, workshop, and art studio. Thoughtfully designed and privately set, the estate blends craftsmanship, creativity, and space for living, working, and retreating

Connor Brookman +1 (256) 7

|

118 Creekmound Drive, Huntsville, AL, 35806

Convenient Living on Large Lot

$1,400,000

5 BD / 4 BA / 4,304 SQ.FT. | Beautiful 1-acre property with open-concept living, vibrant interiors, wood floors, cozy gas FP, and a well-appointed kitchen with quartz, island, and walk-in pantry Primary suite w/ huge closet + laundry Loft, family room, and great outdoor space backing to Indian Creek.

Brian May +1 (256) 497-6780 | brian may@evrealestate com

Newly Developed RV Park in Troy, Alabama

$789,000

19.86 ACRES | Trojan Station RV Park in Troy, Alabama is a newly developed hospitality asset opened in November 2023 The 19 86-acre property offers 76 RV sites with highway frontage, strong visibility, expansion potential, and demand driven by Troy University and the Troy Sportsplex.

$1,800,000

AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST

Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short

Creative Director: Jen Birn

Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill

Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX

MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.

After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.

Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?

A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”

THE QUIET STANDARD:

MIKE JOHNSON

“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”

— Mike Johnson

Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?

A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”

Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?

A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”

This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

JUNE 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

SELECT FRIDAYS MAY-SEPTEMBER Golden Hour

Huntsville Botanical Garden | 5:00 PM

Ease into your Friday evenings at a relaxed summer series where music, nature, and community come together as the sun begins to set. Enjoy live music, picnics, and time with friends surrounded by the Garden’s natural beauty. Admission is free, sponsored by the Huntsville Music Office and the City of Huntsville’s Office of Multicultural Affairs.

JUNE 4TH-7TH

Southern Fried Film Festival

Independent Cinema at Lowe Mill as well as other events around the city

An international film festival in Huntsville that celebrates the creativity of cinema. Founded by award winning producers and filmmakers.

JUNE 4TH

Susan Budash Gallery

Opening

The Little Green Store and Gallery 820 SE Monte Sano Blvd | 5:00 PM

Susan Budash is an accomplished artist who has been painting her whole life. For much of her career she has focused on traditional landscapes and still life, but more recently has begun to add a more contemporary twist to her work. Gather and enjoy an evening of art and fellowship at her local gallery opening.  @littlegreenstore thelittlegreenstore.net

JUNE 16TH

2026 Designer Bag Bingo

The Royal & Electric Belle at Stovehouse | 5:30 PM

Play BINGO for a chance to win a de signer bag! This is a fundraiser for the Quality of Life Program serving women and young children of Madi son county. There will be food, a cash bar, silent auction, a market, and priz es! Visit uwmadisoncounty.org more info and tickets

JUNE 20TH

Wild Thangs Trail Series

5105 Nolen Ave SE | 7:00 AM

This is the first of the summer trail se ries designed for runners of all levels. This is a 5K and 10K Starting in June and finishing in August, these 4 races are designed to be competitive, help runners increase their race distances through the hot summer months, and most of all be a ton of fun. Sign up at ultrasignup.com

JUNE 28TH

Father’s Day Gift Guide

GOLF THEMED WHISKEY GLASS

$18 each - Southern Kitchen and Home

SECRID WALLET

$99 - Roosevelt & Co. @rooseveltandco

SMOKER SOUTHERN HEARTH AND GRILLS

Local gift ideas for all styles and budgets

GOLF THEMED WHISKEY GLASS $18 EACHSOUTHERN KITCHEN AND HOME

Raise a toast to his love for the game with the “Send It” 13oz Double Old Fashion Whiskey Glass. These are the perfect blend of style, spirit, and sport.

SECRID WALLET $99 - ROOSEVELT & CO. @ROOSEVELTANDCO

Every man needs a stylish wallet, and this one is sleek but durable, and comes in a variety of colors to appeal to any man’s style.

SMOKER SOUTHERN HEARTH AND GRILLS

For the dad who loves to entertain, enhance his outdoor kitchen with Primo Ceramic Grill.

FOCAL’S BATHYS WIRELESS HEADPHONES $849 - EXCLUSIVELY AT AVIQ

With its wireless and active noise cancelling (ANC) technologies, it is the perfect travel companion.  Comfortable and refined, these wireless headphones boast a battery life of over 30 hours, fast charging, and a host of features for a total musical escape.

ARTICLE BY CASEY CREQUE

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

FOCAL’S BATHYS  WIRELESS HEADPHONES

$849 - exclusively at AVIQ

Home Is Where The Park Is

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