From culinary icon Chef Frank Stitt to visionary architect Jeffrey Dungan and trailblazing entrepreneur John Cassimus, the 2025 Soul of the South nominations came from Alabama greats in 11 categories, raising the bar of the third annual Soul of the South Awards to its most inspiring celebration yet, rich with artistry, innovation, grit, and hometown pride.

SoulGrown was founded on the belief that Alabama is the Soul of the South, and within our state lines are gifted human beings who cultivate their craft from home, creating the best of our nation’s culture. These are people who love our land, grow our food, create our art, curate our spaces, take care of our people, feed us award-winning meals, clothe us, entertain us, tell our stories, and guide us through the most beautiful destinations.i

This exclusive celebration brings together industry leaders and a new wave of talent. Nominated by Honored Guests, our 2025 Soul of the South Award Winners represent the best that’s yet to come in Alabama.

Soul Grown is proud to announce the 2025 Soul of the South Award Winners, soulfully inspiring a legacy of state pride:

Jesús Méndez | Food & Beverage
Nominated by Chef Frank Stitt

James B. Laughlin | Residential Architecture
Nominated by Jeffrey Dungan

Kevin Bryant | Commercial Architecture
Nominated by Courtney Pittman, Davis Architects

Anna Still & Marguerite Johnson | Interior Design
Nominated by Betsy Brown

Drayton Farley | Music & Entertainment
Nominated by Johnny Grimes

Liz Allison | Artist
Nominated by Carrie Pittman Hill

Jenna Collins/Prodigal Pottery | Maker
Nominated by Chris Richardson

Evan & Christy Nelson/Nelson Cattle | Farming & Agriculture
Nominated by Sweet Grown Alabama

Daniel Wilson/Moultrie | Sports & Outdoors
Nominated by PRADCO

Slade & Macy Johnston | Entreprenurship
Nominated by John & Lexi Cassimus

Cori Fain-Forrest | Innovation
Nominated by Estes Hughes

Thank you to all of our 2025 honored guests who thoughtfully submitted nominations, and congratulations to our 2025 Soul of the South winners. We look forward to honoring your hard work and creativity at the exclusive awards celebration on October 9. With hand-crafted awards by Alabama Sawyer, ingredients sourced from Alabama, and live music, this evening promises to be a meaningful celebration of our state and the talent that makes us proud!

For ticket or sponsorship information, please email editor@soul-grown.com.

YHN Media Group is pleased to report strong growth across its publications in the past year. The company’s flagship outlet, Yellowhammer News, is announcing new developments – including the rollout of a polished brand identity and website, partnerships with Alabama’s top media personalities, a magnitude of audience growth, and a statewide advertising impact that remains unmatched in its space.

Founded in 2011 with the idea, “We Know Alabama,” Yellowhammer News became a leading provider for local and state news, coverage of Alabama politics, businesses large and small, and the stories of those who call our state home.

Today, YHN Media Group and its affiliate outlets are pleased to report strong growth both in the reach of their content and the impact it generates.

“With the daily privilege to offer our audience something they did not know about something they love – Alabama – comes with a responsibility to reach our state with high-quality, dynamic media,” said Ellis Terry, President of YHN Media Group. “Our family of outlets is scaling up its ability to quickly deliver information that matters across our rapidly growing social media channels and platforms.”

Additionally, YHN Radio Network, a statewide collection of 31 local affiliates with an approximate weekly reach of 1 million daily listeners, is now officially called Yellowhammer News Radio. Its new slogan, Signal of the South, fits its reach.

Yellowhammer News Radio will continue to deliver stories, sounds, and content that connect our audience across the state, whether they call Alabama home or are just passing through.

In addition to the polished look of its family of brands, the company is announcing new partnerships and personnel moves that will sustain it into the future.

YHN Media Group has named Grayson Everett as Editor in Chief of Yellowhammer News. For the past two years, Everett has driven the flagship publication’s coverage, first as its capitol reporter and later as the state and political editor. Everett has established a commitment to high-caliber coverage of state government and politics, the individuals who shape Alabama, and the everyday stories that matter most.

Across vital contributions to all outlets within the portfolio, Everett was also named as Vice President of Content for YHN Media Group and its publications.

Austen Shipley will now serve as News Director for Yellowhammer News. Since 2021, Shipley has emerged as a trusted name in the Alabama media landscape. His byline will continue to break news and capture the moment of Alabama politics, businesses, athletics, faith, culture, the outdoors, and more.

Earlier this fall, Yellowhammer News announced a new partnership with Alabama sports media duo Longshore and McKnight. Every weekday, John Longshore and Barry McKnight bring viewers and listeners together to bond over the voices of athletes, coaches, and dedicated fans of Alabama sports.

“We have continued our growth by partnering with one of the best news-gathering agencies in the Southeastern United States,” said John Longshore, co-host of the podcast. “We get a chance to be on their platform, and they get to be on ours. It’s going to be a great symbiotic relationship.”

John Longshore and Barry McKnight, in their roles as co-hosts, combine decades of sports media expertise with dedication to Alabama.

This summer, we also announced the launch of Lake Martin Life – Alabama’s new go-to destination for everything happening around the beautiful Lake Martin community. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, our platform is designed to keep you connected and informed about all things Lake Martin.

RELATED: YHN Media Group announces new lifestyle brand, Lake Martin Life

Throughout the exciting developments, the annual honors and events put on by each outlet remain a source of pride for the stories of success, creativity, influence, and so much more for so many Alabamians over the years.

Through Women of Impact, we highlight the personal and professional advancements of Alabama women by finding 20 incredible leaders across the state, true trailblazers. We tell their stories one by one and host a state-wide event to celebrate their amazing contributions.

Each year at Power & Influence, we celebrate the state’s most powerful and influential individuals on Alabama policy. The Top 50 tells the story of who has the ability to use its influence to propel the state forward, and the event brings together a list of Alabama’s Who’s Who.

Our annual Legislative Review is a chance for our state’s leaders to discuss the current legislative session, including key policy topics, the agenda, and the priorities of focus. 

SoulGrown’s Soul of the South Awards honor those who came before us while celebrating a new wave of talent. Nominated by leaders in their industry, our recipients represent the best that’s yet to come in Alabama.

256 Today’s Innovator Awards recognizes Excellence in the Support and Protection of our Nation and serves as a platform to recognize their invaluable contributions and inspire a new generation of defenders and supporters for the future.

“We believe in the people of Alabama and the vast potential of our state,” Ellis Terry said.

“We are grateful for the dedication of our audience and the trust they place in our company to be their daily source of news, information, sports, culture, and everything in between. We are absolutely committed to building the #1 pro-Alabama media network in the state – and we are proud to share the successful strides we’ve made in just the past year.”

Nominated by Natasha McCrary of 1818 Farms, Kaylee & Seth Hubert were honored at our 2024 Soul of the South Awards as our Farming & Agriculture category winners.

Biography

For Seth and Kaylee Hubert, farming is in their blood. Seth’s great-great grandfather emigrated to Madison County from Bavaria, Germany, settling there with his family and a small 78-acre farm. Since then, his grandfather, with grit and determination, kept the farm alive through the Great Depression and grew the small space into a 2000-acre operation. Seth attributes his love of farming to his father, whose passing in 2003 was a jolt to the family.

When Seth and Kaylee decided to continue to build the farm’s legacy, they turned to a different path—growing tulips. Together, they desire to bring something unique to the area, a place for family and friends to enjoy the open fields in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachians.

Soul of the South Q&A

1) What was your “aha” moment or when did you decide that this was the industry for you?

Seth: For me, I’ve known since I was young that I wanted to go into farming and agriculture, as it’s what my family has done for generations. But I remember one particular day when I was watching my daughter pick flowers. She had a handful of them and I had a moment where I thought, “I bet families would love to come and pick flowers for themselves.” I had seen these amazing photos of the tulip fields in the Netherlands, and wondered if we could recreate that here. We’ve always loved tulips, as we live in my grandparent’s old house and there have always been tulips that would come up around the porch, so they’re definitely a special flower to the family.

2) How did your upbringing or time spent in Alabama shape your career?

When I think about how I grew up, it was the quintessential Alabama cotton farm, I loved everything about it. We don’t grow cotton anymore and I miss it– the smell, jumping in the wagon full of cotton, handing my dad tools. I remember getting a cushion from my grandma’s patio furniture and putting it in the floorboard of the tractor to ride with dad. Sometimes the fondest memories are the simplest—and nothing beats sweet home Alabama.

3) What keeps you moving forward in the industry, and do you have a quote or motto that resonates with you?

Kaylee: The next generation is what moves us forward—especially our children, Addie and Atlas. We started with only the land, and that was it. No equipment, seeds, or any contacts. But if we are able to give our children the opportunity to come back to the farm, to be able to give them a leg up in life—that’s what propels us. Seth always says, “there’s no growth in comfortability.” We know that trials will always come, and in our industry there are so many variables you can’t control, like the weather or the price of seed. But we can control our mindset and our attitude, and remember that we’re blessed.

4) How has your nominator made a positive impact on your idea of and/or relationship to your industry?

Kaylee: Natasha has always been so warm and kind to us— and we first met when we purchased some babydoll sheep from her. We were incredibly excited when she nominated us. She’s truly got the process figured out in terms of vertical integration, especially when you have a farm with a smaller acreage. She’s done a phenomenal job of figuring out how to direct market to the consumer, and she’s a constant source of inspiration for us.

5) What would you consider your greatest professional accomplishment?

Seth: To be able to leave the farm to our children, and to leave it in a place where it’s profitable for them to come back and make a living at. We’ve been in the same spot for over 100 years, and it’s home.

Kaylee: I’m really proud of our National Outstanding Young Farmer award in 2022, where we were in the top 10 in the whole nation. They flew us out to Hilton Head, where we were able to meet 9 other farmer couples from all across the nation, and it has brought us some of our closest friends. It allowed us to become part of the Outstanding Farmers Association, where we continue to meet top notch farmers.

6) What would you like to see more of in Alabama as it pertains to your industry?

Seth: We’d like to see more resources for the small farmer, especially for specialty crops such as tulips. Under two percent of people in the US are farmers– a small group of people who truly understand all of the obstacles with agriculture. We also need better agriculture awareness and education—many people think the food just shows up on the shelves at the store, and they don’t understand the process to get it there. We are also very community-focused, and thinking of ways to better serve our community and to help fortify food security.

This story originally appeared on SoulGrown.

Nominated by The Kelly Fitzpatrick Center for the Arts, Jared Knox was honored at our 2024 Soul of the South Awards as our Artists & Makers category winner.

Biography

Jared Knox is an Atlanta-based artist with a passion for the outdoors. His goal in creating is to celebrate the magnificence of nature, and more importantly, the One who created nature itself. “God the Creator is the ultimate artist, and we can only hope to glorify Him by making reflections of what He has already created.” His work, most often depicting wildlife, is both powerful and peaceful.

Since Jared was a child he had a paintbrush in hand, quickly finding an interest in pop art and paperweights. He made drawings of everything he saw, and when he was not drawing, he was outside hunting or fishing. As time passed, art became second to studying and sports; however, his junior year at Auburn University, he felt a need to find a job that would allow him to travel for the sake of taking his faith overseas as a missionary. After praying and searching, Jared realized that his passion for artwork was not without reason.

Upon graduating in May of 2021, he began working with several galleries across the southeast. He has done artwork for businesses across the country, created countless commissions, and partnered with men’s clothing store Onward Reserve. He created the painting for the GA Fishing License and partnered with the GA Department of Natural Resources for several other projects. As Jared Knox advances in his career, he continues to leverage his life for the sake of sharing the gospel both overseas and at home in Atlanta.

Soul of the South Q&A

1) What was your “aha” moment or when did you decide that this was the industry for you?

I painted on the side throughout college as I studied mechanical engineering at Auburn, never thinking about becoming a full time artist until I got a call from an Atlanta gallery. They let me know that they believed I could have success as an artist and that it could be a great full-time option after I graduated. Until that moment, I had never seriously considered painting as a legitimate career, but I felt the Lord stirring me in that direction and have not looked back.

2) How did your upbringing or time spent in Alabama shape your career?

I spent all my time as a kid playing outside fishing and hunting or inside painting. Upon becoming a student at Auburn, I began to orient my free time around hunting the local area for turkey, deer, and wood ducks. So my adoration for wildlife grew as my connections in the area did as well. I made artwork for galleries and local events, traded my art to friends in town, and painted a few installs for my local church, Auburn Community Church.

3) What keeps you moving forward in the industry, and do you have a quote or motto that resonates with you?

I am consistently motivated by the God-given desire to create, and am rooted by the belief that even my best work could never fully reflect the artistry of the Creator. I hope to bring glory to Him by highlighting his majesty shown through creation. Romans 1:20 is a verse that I consistently come back to in my creative process. “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”

4) How has your nominator made a positive impact on your idea of and/or relationship to your industry?

Jennifer Eifert really helped solidify my presence as a wildlife artist by inviting me into the “WEWA” festival. Many valuable connections were made through the event, and winning the “Best in Show” award there last year was a massive blessing. Jennifer is a great gallerist and pushes the art scene forward in Wetumpka to make it now a national stage for artists and makers like me. There are so many great people who enjoy celebrating the culture we are immersed in and Jennifer has made a great opportunity for us to come together each year.

5) What would you consider your greatest professional accomplishment?

Putting my artwork on the GA fishing license was a big step for me, but I would say the greatest accomplishment so far was winning the “Best in Show” award at the Alabama Wildlife Art competition last year. That show included several artists that I have looked up to for years, so to be in the show and even win it was surreal to me.

6) What would you like to see more of in Alabama as it pertains to your industry?

We have begun a great movement of celebrating our wildlife artists through different festivals. I look forward to watching our artists continue to thrive under the growing support of wildlife art in the state until our stage is a national one.

This story originally appeared on Soulgrown.

Strike up the oompah band and break out the lederhosen. It’s time to tap into the world’s best beer party, Oktoberfest.

Originating in Munich, the two-week celebration has become one of Germany’s greatest exports, celebrated worldwide in festivals filled with beer and sausages.

The funny thing is, very little of Oktoberfest is observed in the month of October. Munich’s grand party officially starts in late September, and continues through three weekends (and the weekdays between), ending the first weekend in October. This year it’s September 21 through October 6.

Alabama is a great place for Oktoberfest. Cities like Cullman and St. Florian, which were first settled and farmed in the 1870s by German immigrants, host public fests inspired by Munich’s version. Other cities also hold variations with beery themes. Most state breweries and brew pubs come out with their own special Oktoberfest beers and throw in-house parties.

Munich’s Oktoberfest evolved from the week-long nuptials in 1810 of King Ludvig I and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The happy couple decided to repeat the fun for their anniversaries, and then city leaders took over in 1819.

Now in its 189th edition, today’s Munich Oktoberfest is a carnival, with rides and other family fun. Last year, 7.2 million people attended.

The official beer of Oktoberfest is a style known as Märzen. Traditionally these were brewed extra-strong in March to last in cold storage until the next harvest, so they were perfect for an October beer festival.

Only six designated German breweries make the beer served at Munich’s Oktoberfest. Their beer flows freely, starting with the ceremonial tapping of a keg on day one. Last year’s attendees quaffed 6.5 million liters of it.

Our fests are more modest but still plenty of fun. Here is the lineup in Alabama.

Redstone Arsenal Family and MWR Oktoberfest (Huntsville)

September 13-15

Held at the MRW Activity Field (enter at Gate 10 on Patton Road), the 27th Oktoberfest party features many elements of Munich’s Oktoberfest, including a ceremonial keg tapping and stein-hoisting competition. The Biergarten will offer 60 beers and ciders from local and regional breweries. The King Guys Oktoberfest Brass Band will perform in the Festhalle. Rides and games add to the fall festival atmosphere.

Times: 5 p.m.-midnight (Friday), 12 p.m.-midnight (Saturday), and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (Sunday)

Admission: $15 includes parking and access to the music. $25 includes parking, music, and unlimited rides. Entry to the Craft Biergarten is $35 each day and includes a souvenir glass. Cash only.

Cullman Oktoberfest (Cullman)

October 3-5

Hofbrauhaus, one of the six official breweries that make Oktoberfest beer for Munich’s fest, is the main pour in Cullman as well. In addition to Hofbrauhaus’ Oktoberfest (golden) and Märzen(amber) brews, its Hefe (cloudy wheat), dunkel (dark), and original (golden) lager also are featured. Products of German breweries Warsteiner, Tucher, and Weihenstephan, as well as Cullman’s Goat Island brewery, also will be available.

Events include contests for a bratwurst eating contest, wiener dog racing, pet and human costumes, and stein hoisting. Musicians, acrobats, and lots of food are on the bill. Start Saturday with a 5k or 10k race (“Burn those beer carbs,” organizers say).

Times: 4 p.m.-9 p.m. (Thursday), 10 a.m.-11 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)

Admission: Free.

St. Florian Oktoberfest (Florence)

October 4-5

It starts with a kick-off dinner Friday evening at the St. Florian Senior Center, serving pork tenderloin, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, green beans, cooked apples, cole slaw, cornbread, and desserts.

The main event on Saturday, at St. Florian Park, includes a tractor parade, antique car and truck show, barbecue cookoff, and music at the pavilion. Of course, there’s a Biergarten. Last year’s Oktoberfest drew some 25,000 people.

Times: Friday dinner is 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Saturday is 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m.

Admission: The dinner is $20. Free admission to Saturday’s fest.

Dauphin Street Beer Festival (Mobile)

October 5

Technically it’s not an Oktoberfest party, but rather a beer party held in October. In its 26th year, the pub crawl hits 14 venues pouring a total of 56 samples. A printable map released at festival time shows the locations and which beers and ciders they offer.

Times: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

Admission: A $35 ticket buys a souvenir mug, a wristband for admission to the bars, and a temporary membership card. Must be 21 or older. Tickets are also available at the participating venues. Once purchased, you must register for a confirmation number to gain admission.

Moody Oktoberfest (Moody)

October 5

This arts and crafts festival at Moody City Park features food, live music performances on two stages, arts and crafts vendors, and the Annual Cruisin’ for a Miracle Car Show. Kids’ activities include a petting zoo, inflatables, and free pony rides.

Times: 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Admission: Free.

Auburn University Oktoberfest

October 18-19

Billed as “the South’s favorite craft beer festival,” it starts with a Friday night beer dinner and ceremonial tapping of the keg, with the War Damn Polka Band performing. The family-style menu includes soft pretzels, sausages, schnitzel, German-style potato salad, braised red cabbage, and Black Forest cookies.

Saturday’s main event features beers from commercial breweries as well as home-brewers alley (the latter includes a competition for the fan favorite). The fun includes a stein hoisting competition, wiener dog races, Mr. And Miss Oktoberfest competition, and live music. Select college football games will be streamed (Auburn is at Missouri that day).

Times: The Friday beer dinner is 6:30 to 8:30. Saturday is 3 p.m.-7 p.m.

Admission: Tickets to the dinner are $125. A special package is $175 (for Friday and Saturday events). Saturday tickets start at $50 for basic entry, and $75 for a deluxe package (including a “neck nosh” pretzel necklace).

This story originally appeared on SoulGrown.

The University Club, a beloved special events and private dining facility with a fascinating history, is slated to reopen its doors to the public in May.

The prestigious establishment with its iconic Greek revival structure and towering columns sits atop Queen City Avenue on The  University of Alabama campus, and has remained a cherished University institution for nearly a century.

(The University of Alabama/Contributed)

The home was built in 1834 by James H. Dearing, a local steamboat captain and a member of the Alabama legislature. The mansion changed ownership hands multiple times over the next decade, and even became home to Alabama governor Arthur P. Bagby from 1837 to 1841. Because Bagby was not provided an official residence by the state, the building earned the nickname “The Governor’s Mansion” during his four year term.

After remaining a private residence for several decades, the home officially became a part of the University in 1944 as a generous donation by the Warner family. Their generosity expanded into the following years as they worked to furnish the mansion, oversee improvements and add decorative embellishments. And in 1946, it was officially established as the University Club – a unique social hub for faculty and staff on the campus, and a highly sought-after venue for receptions and other special events.

(The University of Alabama/Contributed)

Unfortunately, the University Club closed its doors during the 2020 pandemic, and has been closed ever since. However, its closure provided the University with the opportunity to embark on a series of renovations to restore the mansion to its former beauty and add some contemporary additions as well.

“As we meticulously restore and reinvent, we are mindful of our responsibility to retain the original character and charm that has made the University Club what it is today,” says Alexia Cadle, the club’s membership director. “We are introducing a blend of tradition and innovation to provide a refreshed and elevated experience for our members and guests.”

(The University of Alabama/Contributed)

While the University Club enters a new chapter, its team is looking forward to presenting a rejuvenated space that will serve the communities in a variety of capacities. The Club boasts private yet affordable membership options with opportunities for non-resident memberships as well.

(The University of Alabama/Contributed)

Within the newly-renovated private dining facility, the University Club will introduce two restaurant concepts, offering both an elevated dining experience on the main floor alongside a more casual bar and lounge. The restaurants will focus on locally-sourced ingredients and will include the beloved “Almond Ball,” the club’s iconic, nostalgic dessert of vanilla ice cream coated in almonds and rich chocolate. This simple yet classic dessert has its own fan following and is well-known as the “perfect Southern dessert.”

Hospitality management students will also be able to use the venue as a training ground for hands-on experience.

The University Club is also part of the Invited network, formerly ClubCorp, the largest operator of private membership clubs in the country.

At its reopening this May, the club will celebrate the 80th anniversary of its acquisition by The University of Alabama, as well as the 190th anniversary of the building itself. Get ready to enjoy an almond ball in one of Alabama’s most beautiful and historic homes — the wait is almost over.

Courtesy of SoulGrown Alabama

The Soul of the South was on full display last week. 

SoulGrown, a publication on the forefront of the culture, beauty and ingenuity of Alabama and those who tell its story, honored a handful of the creators who make life better for everyone in the state.

“These are people who love our land, grow our food, create our art, curate our spaces, take care of our people, feed us award-winning meals, clothe us, entertain us and tell our stories,” said Courtney Hancock, CEO of SoulGrown. 

“Each honoree was nominated by an established creator in Alabama. Honored guests like designer Billy Reid of Florence and Anna Brakefield of Red Land Cotton personally selected up-and-coming creatives to spotlight. 

Barber Motorsports in Birmingham was the backdrop to a stunning event that brought together honorees from across the state to be recognized for their tangible and aesthetic contributions to Alabama. 

RELATED: A 200-mile trail through 27 towns linking North Alabama’s past with a bright future

Among those celebrated included Savannah Yarborough, nominated by the iconic Billy Reid, for her brand SAVAS, which has clothed the likes of Jack White, Brian Cox, and members of the Rolling Stones.

In the world of storytelling, Jahman Hill, award-winning poet, professor, and executive director of The Flourish Alabama, was recognized for his impact both here at home and on the lives of millions across the world through his online channels. 

From a childhood interest in Legos to creating award-winning architectural wonders, Mack Braden’s work in architecture and interior design was honored. Mary Lauren McBride, another honoree in the architecture & interior design category, was recognized for turning her lifelong passion into a successful career. 

Alabama’s food and beverage scene was represented by Brooke and Jonny de Jong, co-owners of Venture Milk, LLC.

Shannon and Megan Brantley, nominated by Garland and Heather Gudger of Southern Makers – two Alabama creative powerhouses themselves – are the duo behind Flannel and Floral brand. 

RELATED: Alabama-based influencer shines spotlight on life in the Yellowhammer State

Isaac Cooper’s journey from being recruited as a football standout to his D1 financial consultancy with IMC Financial Consulting was honored. 

When it comes to giving back through philanthropy, Uma Srivastava was praised for her work as executive director at KultureCity, the nation’s leading nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities

Honoree Karah Skinner’s quest for healthy meat for her family transformed into Rock House Farms, catering to the entire Southeastern United States, was recognized. 

Huntsville-based musician Wanda Wesolowski, nominated by Ryan Murphy with the Orion Amphitheater, took home gold in the statewide music & entertainment category. 

RELATED: The New Nashville: North Alabama fosters music industry growth and tourism

In the sports and outdoors world, Freddy Padilla, native of Demopolis and avid outdoorsman, serves on the Board of Directors for Alabama Black Belt Adventures and is an active member of The Alabama Wildlife Federation. 

The 2023 Soul of the South awards recipients represent the best that’s yet to come in Alabama. 

“What started over a year ago as a dream to create a celebration for the visionaries, innovators, disrupters and shakers of Alabama, ended in the first ever Soul of the South Awards,” SoulGrown’s Courtney Hancock said.

“Bringing together our state’s most successful industry leaders with the people they believe represent a proud future was a meaningful endeavor of Southern hospitality. I was blown away by the support from our sponsors and the amount of nominations that came in. We can’t wait to do it again next year!”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

Alyssa Hall, also known as Aly From Alabama, is sharing life in Alabama with her followers across the world. Aly has taken to social media to showcase her favorite Alabama pastimes. From hunting and trapping to fishing and noodling, Aly creates short-form content on socials and long-form content on YouTube for viewers to enjoy.

With videos reaching over half a million views on YouTube, viewers are fascinated by Aly’s adventures in the South. In one of her most popular videos, Aly can be seen catching an 85-pound catfish with her bare hands. She also brings viewers into the experience by explaining how-tos on cleaning and frying catfish.

Aly has garnered over one million followers and more than 13 million likes on her most popular platform, TikTok, through sharing her thrilling outdoor experiences. In a video that has amassed over 11 million views, Aly can be seen catching a massive blue catfish.

Aly is also known for her deer hunting and hog trapping content. On her YouTube channel, viewers can find videos of her experiences deer hunting and trapping hogs. In a recent video, Aly goes into depth about her process and equipment used for trapping hogs. For avid hunters, Aly also provides videos such as a how-to instructional video for a DIY European skull mount.

Aly can be found across Buckmasters social media accounts giving viewers a look into her lifestyle. In a recent YouTube video on the Buckmasters channel, Aly answers top questions about noodling and offers advice to those interested in the sport.

Aside from fishing, noodling, hunting, and trapping, Aly shares her other adventures and travels throughout the country across platforms. A recent trip to Arizona provided viewers with videos of Aly’s family, including her adorable toddler, hiking through places with stunning views like Horseshoe Bend and Devil’s Bridge.

We’re entering prime time to enjoy freshly-shucked Alabama oysters on the half shell. Although local oysters are in season year-round, they reach their peak in flavor and size when the water is cooler, from October through winter.

“This time of year, I notice the oysters are more plump, firm, and creamy,” Anthony Ricciardone, co-owner of the Admiral Shellfish Co. offshore farm near Fort Morgan, once told me. “They’re building up for winter.”

Admiral is one of more than a half-dozen Alabama aquatic farms that grow and harvest oysters in the bays and estuaries where freshwater meets the salty Gulf of Mexico. The oldest farm, Point aux Pins, submerged its first commercial crop in 2009.

A specialty premium product, farmed oysters are designed to be served raw, in deep-cupped shells that hold plenty of liquor with the meat.

Alabama’s oyster farming industry is the byproduct of the Auburn University Shellfish Laboratory and Bill Walton, one of its marine scientists. It helps train would-be farmers, provides ongoing advice and research, and even has been a source for seed oysters.

The university’s shellfish lab, which is based on Dauphin Island, helped adapt an environmentally sustainable farming method using cages held relatively close to the water surface. The crop is regularly air-dried to get rid of barnacles, algae, and other contaminants.

All wild and farmed oysters along the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf are the same genus and species, generically known as the Eastern Oyster. But each develops a distinct flavor and even shell shape from its environment – the salinity, temperature, nutrients, and wave action in the coves and inlets where they grow.

The saltier the water, the saltier the meat. Cooler waters produce firmer oysters. How the waves hit the oyster cages, with an extra boost from being tumbled by the farmer, affects the shape of the shell.

“We invest a lot of time in custom-crafting the shell so you get a flatter top and a deeper cup,” Ricciardone says. “That has to do with how frequently we handle and tumble them. Bivalves want to grow on their lip. Every time we chip that lip, it tells the oyster to start creating a cup.”

Oyster farmers choose sites off undeveloped land to avoid ground-pollutant runoff. They hand-harvest when the oysters reach optimal size, resulting in a more uniform product that looks great on the plate. Commercial harvesting often involves dredging whatever is in the path.

Those are all factors in why chefs and quality fishmongers turn to farmed oysters to serve on the half-shell. Menus where they routinely appear name the oyster farm, like the now-familiar lists of growers that provide the vegetables, fruit, and steaks.

When an oyster craving hits, look for these Alabama farms. All should be available at the Experience the Oyster fest on Nov. 3-4 at The Hangout in Gulf Shores.

• Admiral Shellfish (Gulf Shores)
  Clean and subtle, they are briny with a savory creaminess, says co-founder Anthony Ricciardone.
• Bayou la Batre Oyster Farm (Bayou la Batre)
  “The perfect mixture of fresh and saltwater in the bay allows our oysters to develop a unique salty flavor,” the company’s website says.
• Grand Batture Oysters (near the state line with Mississippi)
  “The Escatawpa River Delta flows cool, nutrient-rich water into Sandy Bay and its saltwater marshes,” the company says, “giving the oysters … a balanced salty taste with a tender and smooth texture, followed with a mineral finish!”
• Massacre Island Oysters (Dauphin Island)
  “Sturdy shell with plump pearly meat,” according to the company’s description. “Beautiful brine. Earthy light herb (flavor). Finish is sweet shrimp. Dense tofu texture.
• Murder Point Oysters (Orange Beach)
  Perhaps the most popular boutique oyster farmed in Alabama, these “oysters worth killing for” (a company motto) feature a uniquely creamy, even buttery taste, says the Alabama Gulf Seafood Commission.
• Navy Cove Oysters (Gulf Shores)
  “With a plump profile, a sweet flavor, and moderate saltiness, you’re in for a treat,” says the seafood commission. “They even feature a signature ‘racing stripe’ across the shell.”
• Point aux Pins (Grand Bay)
  The farm describes the flavor as “clean, light on brine and big on oysterness, … the perfect blend of meaty, salty, and creamy.”

“People should hunt to connect with nature.”

-Justin Grider, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

With more than 1.3 million acres of public hunting land, Alabama is known for its diverse species of wildlife and hunting heritage. The pride of this long-standing tradition in the state is rooted in a posture of stewardship.

SoulGrown Founder and passionate outdoorsman, Ellis Terry, spoke with Outdoor Alabama about why Alabama is a great place for beginners to learn how to hunt. “Alabama is a great place to learn how to hunt. Not only because of its diverse wildlife like white tail deer, dove, duck, turkey, and so much more, but because of the geographic accessibility. Even the bigger cities are close enough to the country.”

While it may be assumed born and raised Alabamians are all avid hunters, population increase in the state is on the rise, seeing more growth in 2022 than in any year previous since 2004. As the state has grown, so have first-time hunters. Newcomers with an affinity for experiencing Alabama’s beautiful outdoors can learn to hunt in a low-pressure, judgement-free environment through The Adult Mentored Hunting Program.

In 2016, the Adult Mentored Hunting Program began under the direction of Grider and the Department of Conservation. This effort has since seen thousands of participants who have turned their curiosity into a lifelong passion. While the learning curve may be intimidating, learning to hunt is actually easier than ever. In other words, no experience necessary.

“Thousands of folks have gone through the program and a lot of them have harvested animals, learning to clean and prepare them for the table,” says Grider.

Creating confidence in the outdoors is a priority of the program. While being matched with a veteran hunter, beginners from all kinds of backgrounds will learn:

• Firearms/Archery Skills
• Wild Game Processing and Preparation
• Regulations
• License Requirements
• Outdoor Skills
• Equipment
• Hunting Techniques
• Prey Behavior
• Where to Hunt
• Taking an Ethical Shot
• State Hunter Education

The impact of hunting is deeper than providing one’s own protein and enjoying nature. It is a valued life skill that contributes to the overall wellness of people for generations.

Grider reflected on his time since the inception of the program. “We are empowering folks, teaching them something they can reproduce on their own and share with friends and loved ones. People who love to hunt love the outdoors and animals more than anyone else.”

Matching new adult hunters with experienced hunters is a formal process taken seriously by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Interested mentors are required to submit a thorough application, go through background and reference checks, formal training and shadowing before leading within the mentor program.

Jennifer Hearle, of Vance, Alabama, spoke about her experience as a mentee, “I love the judgement-free environment. I never felt uncomfortable. I felt at ease the whole time, and my confidence in hunting has increased tremendously. This program has changed my life, and I would not have found this passion, rekindled my relationship with my brother, or gotten closer to my husband if it was not for the Adult Mentored Hunting Program.”

Dianna Valdez, another female participant from Huntsville, Alabama said “My favorite aspect of the Adult Mentored Hunting Program was coming in as a stranger/geek/nerd and being treated with equality and respect.”

Grider and his team have designed the adult mentored hunting program to be inclusive to all adults. They are passionate about sharing the benefits of hunting with people from all backgrounds who are eager to learn something new. Before getting involved, New Hunter Resources are available online and share in-depth courses and videos on regulations, basic equipment, gear essentials, and so much more.

Whether it be because of an interest in the outdoors, reviving family tradition, or to simply put wild game on the dinner table, learning to hunt provides individuals with skills for a lifetime.

Perfectly situated between Lake Martin and Auburn is a small town with hardly over 100 residents. The entirety of the town is contained in less than three square miles. It is home to a handful of businesses, one of which happens to be the one and only Standard Deluxe.

Standard Deluxe is a nationally acclaimed print shop that is the heart of the small town of Waverly. According to a recent interview between Alabama News Center and owner Scott Peek, the property houses a new bar, outdoor stage, Little House, and The Feed Shak.

The Feed Shak is a 1900s fish camp from Lake Martin that was brought to the property seven years ago. The Feed Shak has seen the addition of a wood-fired oven, barbecue pit, and hearth that has inspired regional culinary experts to cook as events take place on the property. Rob McDaniel of top restaurant Helen was involved in The Feed Shak’s redesign.

The Standard Deluxe property is home to Wild Flour Bakery. The bakery serves fresh bread, desserts, and coffee and is the only of its kind in the town. Owned by Sarah and Howard Jones, the bakery makes great use of a home that is located on the property that also houses the Standard Deluxe shirt and poster shop.

Standard Deluxe, known for its small-town feel, has hosted a range of big-city acts. From St. Paul and the Broken Bones to Alabama Shakes, concerts at Standard Deluxe have drawn crowds nearing a thousand in recent years.

The venue just saw the performance of Son Volt at the tail end of last month. The property is also home to Little House which is intended for smaller indoor events and concerts.

Standard Deluxe is home to The Old 280 Boogie, which began in the 2000s. According to the Town of Waverly’s website, at that time, Highway 280 bypassed Waverly and it was said that “our deceased traffic seemed to invite a party in the street.”

The party that resulted became known as the Old 280 Boogie. The first iteration of the event took place in 2001, and there are now two events each year that are held at Standard Deluxe.

A quote from the recent interview by Standard Deluxe co-producer Amy Miller speaks to the heart of the business, “like to describe Standard Deluxe as a space where design visual arts meets music and presenting of music.

Standard Deluxe is a proper print shop, silk-screen print shop, and design space and a creative place in terms of creative placemaking with spaces.

“But then, it’s an incredible welcomer and host to musicians of all different genres, with a particular lean towards Americana, singer-songwriter, rock, folk – many styles and genres that have come out of the South and have come out of Alabama.

It’s a venue that truly lifts up that artistic joy that has been created in the state of Alabama and in the South.

Alabama is home to an incredible range of state parks that have something to offer adventurers year-round.

Early fall is one of the best times to experience the state’s parks in their most beautiful state. As leaves change and temperatures grow cooler, we are introducing our Alabama Parks Passport series to highlight all of the stunning outdoor spaces throughout the state that make for the perfect fall getaway.

The first in our series is the well-known and well-loved park south of Birmingham: Oak Mountain State Park.

Park History

According to the Encyclopedia of Alabama, “the park was created as a result of the State Land Act of 1927, establishing a park of 940 acres. In the 1930s, the National Park Service acquired approximately 8,000 acres surrounding the park. From 1934 to 1937, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed several roads in the park and constructed pavilions, cabins, and Lake Tranquility Dam. In 1943, the National Park Service deeded the land and facilities to Oak Mountain State Park.”

Attractions

According to the Encyclopedia of Alabama, Oak Mountain is the state’s largest park at an impressive 11,584 acres. The park is bolstered by three main attractions, Maggie’s Glen, Peavine Falls, and Shackleford Point. Maggie’s Glen is a fan-favorite hiking trail that trails alongside a stream. A waterfall at 65 feet in height, Peavine Falls piques many traveler’s interests. Lastly, Shackleford Point is where hikers reach the tallest point in the park at nearly 1300 feet.

Activities and Amenities

Oak Mountain offers a wide range of activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. According to Oak Mountain, “mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking are three of the most popular activities at the park. With more than 100 miles of trails, visitors have plenty of options to choose from be it a short loop or an overnight trip. The Red Trail has even been included on the International Mountain Biking Association’s (IMBA) list of EPIC rides.”

The park also features a pump track and BMX course, Flipside Watersports cable skiing, inflatable aquapark obstacle course, marina rentals, basketball courts, nature programs, Peavine Falls, Oak Mountain Interpretive Center, an 18-hole golf course and driving range, two beaches and swimming areas, three fishing lakes, picnic areas, playground, pickleball court, archery range, Alabama Wildlife Center, and horseback riding facilities. Make your plans today!

Naturalist programs, educational opportunities, and avian rehabilitation are major components of the park as well. The Alabama Wildlife Center provides rehabilitation services to injured native birds each year in order to return them to the wild. The resident birds can be viewed from the Tree Top Nature Trail, an elevated boardwalk winding through a secluded woodland valley.

Adjacent to the Alabama Wildlife Center is the Oak Mountain Interpretive Center, a 2,500-square-foot interactive exhibit space and meeting space (available for renting) and classroom. Go to “Education Programs” for more information on field trips and public educational events.

Find out more about Oak Mountain State Park here.

Acre

210 East Glenn Avenue

Chef-owner David Bancroft is celebrating a decade of serving modern Southern cuisine in the historic train depot downtown. Some of the produce and herbs is grown in gardens at the restaurant. The kitchen cures meats, pickles vegetables, and preserves fruit. What’s growing nearby and swimming in the Gulf of Mexico on that day dictates the menu at Acre that night. Bycatch, fish with little market value caught along with snapper and grouper, is used in ceviche and crudo. Open for lunch Wednesday through Sunday, dinner Monday through Saturday.

The Depot

124 Mitcham Avenue

Under co-owner/executive chef Scott Simpon, The Depot boasts serving Alabama’s “freshest and finest seafood,” but it’s also expanding horizons such as exposing customers to the pleasures of premium tinned fish. Located in Auburn’s historic Train Depot, the restaurant is committed to serving sustainably harvested seafood and farmed oysters. Entrees include seafood, beef, and chicken; more than a half-dozen vegetable sides are served family-style. Daily specials and raw oyster selections are posted online by 5 p.m. Look for tapas on Tuesdays, sushi specials on Wednesdays, and oyster night on Thursdays – all with wine discounts. Open dinner only Tuesday through Saturday.

The Hound

124 Tichenor Avenue

It’s the home of the killer b’s, bacon and bourbon. The Bacon Flight appetizer features both artisan- and house-cured bellies, and the smoked pork flavors purloo, fried rice, collards, and other lucky victuals. The list of bourbons, ryes, Tennessee whiskeys, single-malt scotches, and blended whiskeys tops 200 bottles. Owned by Matthew and Jana Poirier, the restaurant and bar has the atmosphere of a hunting lodge. Lunch includes small plates, sandwiches, and a few entrees. The weekend brunch menu is eclectic and kid-friendly. Vegetarians get some love on a dinner menu teeming with beef, bison, fish, and fowl. Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Friday, and brunch and dinner during the weekend, The Hound is closed Mondays.

Ariccia Cucina

241 South College Street

Auburn University and its sister campus in Ariccia, Italy, partner in this upscale classic Italian restaurant in The Hotel at Auburn University. The restaurant is open for brunch and dinner, and the related lounge, Piccolo 241 Jazz and Cocktails, serves food starting at 3 p.m. Stocking more than 1,500 bottles, the restaurant has won top honors from Wine Spectator. The pasta is made in-house; other signature dishes include porchetta, house-made focaccia, and wood-fired pizzas.

Toomer’s Drugs

100 North College Street

Sheldon “Shel” Toomer was a halfback for Auburn University’s inaugural football team, a state legislator, and an entrepreneur who opened his namesake drug store and soda fountain in 1896. It serves old-fashioned counter food like grilled cheese, sandwiches, pies, ice cream, shakes, and “World Famous” fresh-squeezed lemonade. Its souvenirs are popular; the website even offers free shipping for orders $75 and up. Toomer’s employees started Auburn’s famous tree-papering tradition by tossing ticker tape after away wins; students switched to toilet paper when they caught on to the celebration. Toomer’s Drugs is open daily.

Tuscaloosa is branded as the town where legends are made. And, especially to Crimson Tide football fans of a certain age, few figures are more fabled than Paul William “Bear” Bryant.

Born during football season (Sept. 11, 1913), he played end for the University of Alabama, including on the 1934 national championship team. He was an assistant coach in Tuscaloosa in the late 1930s. Most famously, he mentored and led a generation of players as multiple championship-winning head coach there from 1958 through 1982.

(Alabama Department of Archives and History/Facebook)

Like those “George Washington slept here” signs around the mid-Atlantic region, you can still find placards in and near greater T-town that proudly proclaim, “Bear Bryant ate here.”

As a new football season kicks off (under another legendary coach), here are a few places to eat around Tuscaloosa and neighboring Northport with connections to Bryant.

The Waysider

1512 Greensboro Avenue, Tuscaloosa

This historic landmark is a shrine to Alabama football, down to the life-sized cardboard cutout of the current coach, Nick Saban, and an exterior painted in a hue that locals call “Mal Moore red” in honor of the late player, coach, and athletic director.

But The Waysider, which opened roughly a decade before Bryant took over as head coach, is mostly strongly associated with him. A two-seater table, with a bust of Bryant that’s topped with one of his signature houndstooth hats, marks the spot where the coach regularly ate breakfast, lingering over coffee and the newspaper after finishing his country ham plate.

It’s open for breakfast and lunch Tuesday through Sunday, closing at noon on Saturdays, 1 p.m. on Sundays, and 1:30 p.m. the other days. Needless to say, expect a long wait on game weekends.

(City Cafe Northport Alabama/Facebook)

City Café

408 Main Avenue, Northport

About once a month Bryant would stop in to the City Café for breakfast or lunch while chatting with the lucky fans who had stopped in for a meal or coffee. Sometimes, according to a 2017 report on al.com, he’d even sit down and break biscuits with someone he saw eating alone. Another Bama figure, Ray Perkins, was a near-daily customer at City Café after the former Tide player (under Bryant) succeeded his former head coach.

City Café, which dates back to the Great Depression, serves a standard breakfast menu with eggs, biscuits, and breakfast sandwiches. Lunch is a classic meat-and-three. The restaurant, which opens at 4 a.m. on weekdays, is tailor-made for early risers. But don’t sleep until game day to visit. City Café is closed on weekends.

Baumhower’s Victory Grille

400 Harper Lee Drive, Tuscaloosa

4251 Courtney Drive, Tuscaloosa

Bob Baumhower only lost four games and earned All-SEC honors while playing defensive tackle under Bryant in the 1970s. But after a distinguished career as a pro football player, Baumhower made another significant mark for football fans throughout the Yellowhammer State: He opened the state’s first chicken wing restaurant in 1981. For trivia fans, that was Wings and Whiskers on the UA campus.

Baumhower is now “CEO and Head Fry Cook” for Aloha Hospitality, an umbrella company that includes upscale restaurants and bars, a food truck, another chicken concept called Wingfingers, and the 10 locations of Baumhower’s Victory Grill.

Billing itself as “Your big game headquarters” and “Alabama’s No. 1 sports-themed restaurant,” Baumhower’s hits all the bar-food basics (plus creative additions like sandwiches made with Indian-style naan bread). Numerous televisions show games both big and basic.

(Full Moon BBQ/Facebook)

Full Moon Bar-B-Que

1434 McFarland Boulevard East, Tuscaloosa

When Bear Bryant made the jump from coaching at Texas A&M to Alabama, Pat James was at his side. Bryant’s former player and longtime assistant helped lead the Tide to national championships in 1961 and 1964. After retiring, James opened Full Moon BBQ on Birmingham’s Southside in 1986, running the pit-pork restaurant until selling it to the current owners, brothers David and Joe Maluff, in 1997.

Full Moon now has 17 locations, mostly in Alabama. In Tuscaloosa and Opelika, the Gameday Menu includes bulk packages ($369 – $799) featuring ribs, pulled pork, wings with white sauce, and Full Moon’s famous Half-Moon cookies. Local pickup and delivery to your tailgate tent are available.

Taco Casa

Multiple locations

Ever wondered what’s in those letters of intent football players sign with colleges? Rod Wilkin shares his letter from the University of Alabama on the website of the Tuscaloosa-based restaurant chain he founded in 1974, Taco Casa. It also depicts the Tide’s varsity roster from 1968, where the junior education major from Wichita, Kansas, is listed as a 6-foot-1-inch, 204-pound kicker.

One thing Wilkin missed about home was the Tex-Mex food, and he dreamed of one day opening a restaurant. That ended up being Taco Casa, and he cites the tenacity and toughness he learned from Coach Bryant as factors in its establishment and success.

Taco Casa has six locations in Tuscaloosa and Northport (plus one in Homewood). It is such an institution to UA students and fans Taco Casa now ships its burritos to locations from coast to coast.

Late-summer celebrations of food and drink in Alabama showcase beer, wine, barbecue, seafood, steaks, and sweet potatoes. It’s the start of a busy festival season across the state and here are gastronomic gatherings set for September.

St. William Seafood Festival (Sept. 1-2)

Guntersville

The Labor Day tradition, a fundraiser for St. William Catholic Church, is now in its 53^rd year. Known for its gumbo, the festival offers separate menus for drive-through and dine-in. The drive-through, open Friday 4-6 p.m., and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until sold out, has hot or frozen gumbo by the quart and Cajun boiled shrimp by the pound. Dine-in, which opens at 10:30 a.m. both days, features those items, plus catfish or chicken dinners, and hot gumbo by the pint. The good times roll at the Foley Center in Guntersville.

Sweet Tater Festival (Sept. 3-4)

Smith Lake Park

This is Cullman’s Labor Day tradition, a celebration of all things sweet potato. Expect arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment, games, kid rides, and food with plenty of tater options. The annual car show features just about anything on wheels – cars, trucks, and bikes. Admission is $5. Hours Sunday are 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Monday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Camping, pavilions, cabins, motor home hookups, and boat ramps are available at the park.

Bernard Blues and BBQ (Sept. 9-10)

Cullman

More than $3,000 in prize money is on the line at the cookoff, sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society. Judges will rate chicken and ribs, while people’s choice awards are on the line for wings. The Grand Champion takes home $1,000, and $500 goes to the Reserve Grand Champion. The fundraiser for the St. Bernard Abbey preparatory school also features musical performances and handmade artisan products.  Food includes pulled pork, hamburgers, bratwursts, ribs, and chicken. Admission is a $10 requested donation; children 12 and under are free. Located on the abbey grounds, it’s open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. both days. Discount admission to the Ave Maria Grotto is available.

Alabama Wine Festival (Sept. 16)

Attalla

Explore the grounds of Wills Creek Vineyards and Winery, and sample the wares from vintners across Alabama. Music and food trucks round out the event. Tickets each day are $30 sold online (ends Sept. 14), and $40 at the gate; designated driver wristbands are available at the gate for no charge. Attendees also may buy directly from the vintners.

Sizzle and Smoke (Sept. 22-23)

Decatur

Mosaic Mentoring of North Alabama hosts this Steak Cookoff Association-sanctioned competition, which is open to any SCA member. Cash prizes are available in the following categories:  the triple steak cookoff, ribs, dessert, and a cocktail made with Jack Daniel’s whiskey. The grills fire up on both days, and food trucks will be onsite. Saturday features a car show. Admission is free for the two-day event, set for Ingalls Harbor.

Crush Wine and Food Festival (Sept. 23)

Huntsville

VIP ticket-holders get an hour’s head start for the festival, open for general admission from 1–5 p.m. at Big Spring Park West. Sample dozens of wines, whiskeys, and other spirits; nosh on food by chefs from Alabama, Nevada, Ohio, and North Carolina; and enjoy demonstrations from mocktails to chocolate. Tickets to an exclusive tasting Friday evening are $125 each. General admission tickets on Saturday are $100 and include swag bags; VIP general admission is $175.

Previously featured in SoulGrown

Fairhope is one of Alabama’s most charming towns. Situated along Mobile Bay, the city is a fabulous destination for Alabama locals to spend a day or weekend. Rich with amazing food, stunning views, and welcoming residents, Fairhope proves the perfect escape from the hustle. We have put together a guide for the perfect day trip to Fairhope.

Sunrise at the Bay

Picture this: a beautiful spring morning. A light breeze. Spanish moss hanging from the trees that line your drive to the bayside. You step out and walk down the dock to catch the morning air. The sun rises gently over the horizon looking toward Mobile. This is our ideal way to greet the day in Fairhope.

A Beautiful Breakfast

Fairhope is known for being quaint, cozy, and charming. These three characteristics come together beautifully at Provision. Provision is a paradise for the aesthetically inclined. Serving as a restaurant, coffee shop, bar, and market, Provision is home to the most beautiful breakfasts and the most tastefully curated selection of sundries. Our recommendation: the avocado toast with fresh fruit. Light and lovely, just like the atmosphere.

A Stroll Through Downtown

Once you have had time to peruse Provision, take a step outside and start walking. Any direction really, but toward the heart of downtown will be most suited for a late-morning stroll. Fairhope offers a range of amazing locally owned shops that offer everything from stunning fashion pieces to handmade home goods. It is easy to spend an hour or two walking through the city.

A Light Lunch

Now, there are many options for a killer late lunch in Fairhope, so we will provide a few options. If you’re craving sushi, try Master Joe’s. Feeling something light like a tuna taco? Try Dragonfly. Looking for a little bit of everything? Try Thyme on Section. And we won’t fault you for heading back to Provision for one of their amazing salads or an assortment of fun snacks from their market.

Down Time By the Bay

Our personal favorite way to spend a late afternoon in Fairhope is stopping into the adorable bookshop, Page & Palette. This locally owned gem offers an amazing assortment of books with an entire section dedicated to local authors. Our recommendation: grab a locally written book and a coffee from their cafe and make your way down to the bay. Enjoy an hour or two soaking in some rays and a bit of local perspective.

Dinner at Hope Farm

Now for the most exciting part of the day: dinner. There are several great dinner options, but we recommend The Hope Farm. The Hope Farm offers a range of locally sourced dishes with incredible flavor profiles. The attention to detail is impeccable, and many of the fruits and vegetables are freshly harvested from their farm. Our favorite way to enjoy dinner at The Hope Farm is outside in the lounge area next to a personal firepit under the twinkling lights. Bonus points are awarded if you get to experience the live music lineup.

The Grand for Drinks

For those interested in keeping the fun going, dessert and drinks at The Grand Hotel are a must. The Grand Hotel is one of Fairhope’s oldest landmarks, having opened its doors in 1847. With a few dining options to choose from, patrons can choose the experience most suited to their taste. We recommend finding a cozy spot by the water and enjoying drinks and dessert under the stars.

(This story originally appeared in SoulGrown, an affiliate of Yellowhammer Multimedia)

As Alabamians and as Southerners, tradition is a huge part of our culture. And no one knows that better than Temple Bowling, part-owner of one of the state’s oldest companies, Golden Eagle. Golden Eagle Syrup has been a staple in Alabama pantries since 1928 when Victor Patterson created the recipe for his now-iconic table syrup. During those days, farmers traded their best sugar cane syrup at general stores to be sold to city folk. “By the time you got to the stuff that you kept at home, it was more like backstrap molasses,” Bowling says of those early days. “Mr. Patterson wanted to come up with a syrup that was sweet and affordable, and he started making it in a little building behind his house.”

Patterson’s special blend was a proprietary combination of corn syrup, cane syrup, molasses, and honey—and it’s the same recipe that’s still used to make Golden Eagle Syrup today. Another thing that hasn’t changed in decades is the place where the syrup is made. Golden Eagle started producing commercially in a building in Fayette in 1942, and it’s still made in the exact same facility.

“I didn’t grow up with Golden Eagle,” says Bowling who is originally from Tennessee. “But I’ve always liked nostalgia and history, and I didn’t want it to disappear. Even though Fayette wasn’t my hometown, I didn’t want to see it get swallowed up.”

Part of Bowling’s plan to ensure that Golden Eagle stays in business—and on people’s tables—for another hundred years is to add a few new products to complement Golden Eagle’s beloved syrup. Four years ago, Golden Eagle expanded its product offering with caramel corn, a family recipe from Bowling’s wife who often made it for special occasions and parties.

“We were on cruise control for a few years, and now we’re looking at what we do with it,” Bowling says. “We want to remain true to Mr. Patterson who made high-quality products at a fair price.”

Next up, the group plans to add ready-to-eat pecan pie to its lineup with the hope that it will be ready in time to launch for this fall’s holiday season. Additional products like cornflake clusters and other candies that were once advertised in a pamphlet on the top of the familiar glass jar could also come down the pipeline in the future.

Currently, Golden Eagle is distributed primarily in the Southeast with a heavy concentration in Alabama, Mississippi, and western Tennessee. Bowling says distribution has shrunk over the years, but the goal is to get it back to where it once was and eventually expand. When Bowling travels around the U.S. with his Golden Eagle license plate, he finds fans everywhere he goes—from Ohio to Oklahoma. They often ask how he knows about Golden Eagle and then proceed to tell him about their own connections to the brand.

“Every story was always connected to family,” he says. “Every story was connected to a memory. So to have something that jogs people’s memories the way it does, it’s like we’re not just keeping this alive for us. It’s for everyone.”

Here is a recipe for Golden Eagle Pecan Pie:

Ingredients
3 eggs
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup Golden Eagle Syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 Tablespoons melted butter
1 cup chopped pecans
1 deep dish 9-inch unbaked pie shell

Instructions
Slightly beat eggs, mix in sugar, Golden Eagle Syrup, salt, vanilla, and butter. Sprinkle pecans in an unbaked pie shell and add the filling. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees for approximately 45 minutes.

Note: The pie will thicken as it cools.

For Chocolate Pecan Pie: Increase sugar to one cup. Combine 1/4 cup of cocoa with butter and follow the recipe above.

(This story originally appeared on SoulGrown, an affiliate of Yellowhammer Multimedia)

Colorful and intricately designed boards filled with thinly cut meats, cheese chunks, bread, nuts, olives, fruits, preserves, and other accompaniments are now common on restaurant and market menus.

Morsels of the best delights a chef can source or create, these boards are parties on a platter, culinary creations for sharing with family and friends. A well-designed board is as visually appealing as it is delicious. But sometimes, choosing what to put on it can be a bit overwhelming. Guessing might suffice for the cheese – choose one each made with milk from a cow, goat, and sheep.

But the meat side is a bit more mystical and the names used to describe them can be disorienting. Not all salumi is salami, and treats like pate are charcuterie but not salumi.

Heck, French chefs and other purists might even sniff contemptuously at what we commonly call a charcuterie board. To them, charcuterie only refers to meat. They save the cheese to end their meal. If you desire to distinguish soppressata from speck—even salumi from salami—here’s a cure. Call it charcuterie 101. If nothing else, it might help you win a bar bet or two.

Over time, western European cooks and chefs perfected the art of using up and preserving byproducts from butchering pork (and sometimes beef). They would cure the meat with salt and hang it for months to age in controlled conditions. Charcuterie technically refers to cured salamis, sausages, cuts like hams, and cooked preparations like livery pates.

In Italy, the salumi family only includes cured hams and salamis. Salamis, densely packed with highly seasoned ground meat and flecked with fat, are instantly recognizable. As salamis age, their flavors concentrate, and density increases.

Local ingredients and tastes led salami-makers in different areas to develop distinct styles. Genoa salami blends garlic, white wine, and peppercorns with veal and pork. Calabrese combines shoulder, belly, and head meat with local paprika, garlic, and red wine. The meat in soppressata is coarsely ground. Long-dried Spanish-style chorizo is red-hued and dense. The emulsified meat in mortadella from Bologna is studded with pistachios and large pieces of fat.

Another branch of the charcuterie family includes cured tenderloins, shoulders, legs, and other whole muscles. Hams that are salted and air-dried for up to 24 months include prosciutto and speck from Italy and Spanish jamon. Prosciutto de Parma and Jamon Iberico or Jamon Seranno are the cured ham equivalent of cru wines. You’ll know a restaurant or market is serious when it shaves Italian prosciutto or Spanish Iberico straight from the leg into slices so thin, you can see through them.

Speck is cured hams that also are smoked. You’ll sometime see boards with the Southern equivalent, premium cured country-style hams like Benton’s from Tennessee. Pork shoulder and neck meat transforms into coppa or capicola. Pork tenderloin becomes Lonza. Bresaola is made from beef tenderloin.

In addition to pate, cooked charcuterie includes coarsely-ground meat terrines, and rillettes, slowly-cooked shreds of meats that are stored under a layer of fat. Of course, there’s always a category for “other.” This one includes lardo (herbed fatback preserved in salt), and the funky spreadable preserved pork called Nduja.

Getting hungry? Try one of these six Alabama restaurants.

Chez Fonfon

Birmingham

Starter plates at this French-style bistro include country pate enriched with foie gras and pistachios, and chicken liver mousse. The charcuterie platter includes pate, rillettes, cured meats, and a variety of house-made accompaniments like pickled vegetables.

Vintage Year

Montgomery

You’ll find cheese boards and meat boards at Vintage Year. A recent menu item, the Southern Makers Board, riffs on the theme with cured ham from North Carolina, specialty cheese from Tennessee, rillettes made from chestnut mushrooms, curry-seasoned pickled cauliflower, sorghum pecans, and focaccia.

Red or White

Various Locations

Its locations in Mobile, Fairhope, Orange Beach, and Birmingham offer meat-and-cheese boards for two. Worth noting are the cheese boards geared toward paring with white or red wine, and unusual combinations like roasted veggie boards.

Domaine South

Huntsville

Choices for its BYO board include more than a dozen cheeses; meats like Tuscan finocchiona and other salami, rillettes, terrine, bresaola, smoked duck breast, and chorizo; and house-made accompaniments including jams, nuts, breads, olives, fruit, and dried cherries. A recent vegan board included meat-free “salami.”

Acre

Auburn

Choices include the Butcher’s Board with select meats and accompaniments, the Cheese Board, and the combo Solid Oak Sampler. BYO board choices feature andouille summer sausage and charcuterie like salami, ham, and rillettes.

The Hope Farm

Fairhope

The menu’s Cured + Aged section includes the Meat Board, Cheese Board (with honeycomb), or the combined Farm Board. Accompaniments include house-made bread, pickles, and preserves.

(This story originally appeared on SoulGrown, an affiliate of Yellowhammer Multimedia)

Politics and art don’t typically go hand in hand, but for Birmingham-based artist Kyle Rogers, the two will forever be intertwined.

The Charleston, S.C., native discovered a passion for art during a decades-long career as a lobbyist where he traveled up to 300 days a year. During long and lonely business trips, he created constantly. Using an iPad app, he interpreted everything he saw, from people dining at coffee shops to folks waiting at airport terminals.

He quickly found faces to be his forte and spent hours painting blues and jazz musicians, cowboys, and Native Americans. Though he certainly has his favorite subjects, Rogers will paint just about anything that comes to his mind — and on any surface that he can get.

During the pandemic, he painted an entire series of magazine covers on brown paper Trader Joe’s bags.

“I just have to create,” he says. “If I’m out jogging, and I hear a song, I’m painting the song in my head.”

Though Rogers still works as the vice president of external affairs for Spire, he paints any chance he gets and is excited to get more of his work out in the world. 

Tell us about your path to becoming an artist. 

I’ve been compelled to create art in some form ever since I can remember. I moved to Washington, D.C., right out of college in 1989 to work for a congressman and enjoyed entertaining friends with political and satirical cartoons. Work eventually got in the way, and I found myself creating less. A few years after moving to D.C., I became a lobbyist and started traveling. Gradually, a few trips a year turned into 300 days a year. About 15 years ago, while in the midst of this rigorous travel pace, I started drawing to pass the time on planes. I found myself drawn to art and visited art galleries all over the country whenever I would find a few spare hours on the road. One day in 2014, I was visiting a gallery in New Orleans. I asked the gentlemen working at the gallery if I could draw one of the paintings, not realizing I was asking the artist. He kindly permitted me to draw his work, after which we talked at length, and he encouraged me to take up painting.

I returned to D.C. and began my very first painting. I completed about three or four over the next few months. A few months later, I returned to New Orleans for another work trip. Only this time, my life was forever changed. I suffered a grade three electrical block in my heart only hours after my arrival. After my health scare, I knew I had to make some changes. I dove into art (primarily drawing and painting) as a way to relax. Soon, I was actually painting on planes to de-stress during travel. I found myself making many friends on the road as I entertained passengers and crew with my art creations, often leaving my art with them as a parting gift. Before long, it became a passion.

Five years ago, I finally gave up the D.C. lobbyist job and all the stress that went with it to move to Birmingham. But I didn’t give up my love of creating art. I just kept on painting, refining my technique, and connecting with people as I let my soul speak through my creations.

How did you develop your style?

For years, I would sit through executive meetings, and to better comprehend, I would take my iPad and doodle or draw, so that’s really how I got into art. I found this thing called Sketchbook and you could take your finger and draw. I literally drew constantly. On a plane, I would sit down and just start drawing and people would be looking. I’d do a thousand drawings on a flight.

Shortly after my health scare, I went home for Christmas to Charleston and it snowed. We were blocked in for four days. My grandma had lived with my parents, and she painted. So over those four days, I used her paint to try painting a couple of paintings, and was whipping them out pretty fast. My dad said you should try to pursue this. The more I played around with it, the more I found that it was just calming. It became my thing. If I get mad, I could go doodle or paint.

Because I got so used to painting on an iPad, I see (my paintings) like that. When I paint, I hit a mark, hit a mark, hit a mark, and then paint around and in between the marks that I made. I can then weirdly see it like that.

What inspires your work? 

I see art in the marble tile of a hotel shower, in the reflections of the sun on the pavement, in roots popping up from the dirt … literally everywhere. It is as if I am still a kid staring up at the clouds trying to find things. My favorite things to paint are people in scenery, still faces, and horses. But I’ll paint whatever comes to me. When I put the first mark of paint on a canvas, I just see something and off I go. Life is my inspiration. My memories are imprinted with the many people, faces and sceneries I have seen through my many years of travel. These memories and the experiences I collected along the way inspire the images I reflect in my art.

What do you love most about what you do?

It’s just calming. I can do it for eight hours and never really get tired. I just really get into it. Hopefully, one day I’ll retire and have a building in the backyard and just paint every day for eight hours. I don’t really know what I would end up painting.  I’m always painting in my garage or in my driveway, trying to get it done really fast. One day, I’d love to have a gallery or studio that I could just go to and paint.

Do you have any goals for your future artistic endeavors?

If I can accomplish anything, it would be to be that guy that paints outside-the-box figures and faces and to have people have it as statement art in their house. I want someone to stop and say wow what’s the story behind that guy’s eyes?

Where can people see and buy your work?

I’m presently in the art gallery at Tricia’s Treasures antique store in Homewood and am featured as a live-speed painting artist during all of their parties and events. I have just recently gotten contacted by a gallery in Round Top, Texas, and hope to be showing there soon. People can see examples of my work on my Instagram @obnoxiouslilshit.

By Taylor Philpot

The state of Alabama offers an array of outdoor adventures and opportunities to make memories that will last a lifetime.

At the top of the list for most of those outdoor enthusiasts is hunting. Hunting in the state of Alabama isn’t just a hobby, but a way of life — a tradition passed down from generation to generation. On any given day, you could walk out into the Alabama wilderness and hunt a variety of species.

If you spend any time researching hunting in the state of Alabama, you will quickly discover the famed Black Belt region that spans across 23 counties from the Mississippi to Georgia borders. The dark black soil found in this region is where the name is derived. The soil has an abundance of nutrients and minerals that enables the wildlife to flourish in this region. In addition to the soil, the habitat is vast and varies drastically throughout the region.

For me personally, my childhood memories of deer hunting revolved around the Black Belt Region. We would load up on Friday afternoon and come back on Sunday night. We would stay at our house in the heart of Uniontown, dine at our favorite restaurant in Faunsdale and drink the best chocolate malts on this side of the Mississippi.

In fact, I harvested my first buck and doe in the same day at our hunting club in the Black Belt. The 8-point buck still hangs on my wall today as a reminder of one of my most cherished memories of my Great Uncle Fred.

For those avid deer hunters who travel to the Midwest to hunt the whitetail rut in November due to the action-packed deer activity, you may want to consider making plans to hunt the rut in Alabama later in the season. Depending on what part of the region you decide to hunt, the rut could range from late December all the way to early February. The state produces an Alabama whitetail rut map to help you plan where to hunt at what time of the year for peak rut activity.

Though deer hunting is a big draw for most, this region of Alabama offers some of the most diverse habitat, which makes it conducive for other types of hunting and world class fishing for the best of anglers. Spring mornings are filled with roosted toms sounding off to their delighted mates, while the afternoon’s catch could bring in a trophy bass or monster catfish.

The warm summer days can be spent cruising a variety of lakes and rivers by boat, kayak or whitewater rafts. As the nights cool, you could be chasing alligators in the swamplands or thermal hunting for wild boars or coyotes.

If you want to make this a family trip, the region has you covered. You can stay in picturesque 5-star southern lodges with top chefs preparing every meal or you could camp in some of the most beautiful habitats the state has to offer. Activities are endless. Aside from hunting and fishing, you can find hiking, mountain biking, golfing, rafting, cycling, zip lining, bird watching and similar adventures throughout the Black Belt region.

If you want to stretch your budget further, the state has public lands, campsites, parks and waterways scattered throughout this region available to you at minimal or no cost. For those desiring a more tailored or upscale experience, there are numerous outfitters, guides, clubs and lodges who would be delighted to make your trip one for the memory books.

Taylor Philpot is a contributing writer to SoulGrown.

When bingeing travel shows and watching endless Instagram videos of beautiful destinations is no longer scratching the travel-bug itch, it may be time for a road trip.

For those in the central-to-north Alabama region, a multi-day drive up I-22 could be just the thing you need for a fun weekend away.

Start your trip in the Magic City with Civil Rights history and a wonderfully revitalized downtown, then make your way up the highway to Memphis where you can get your fill of barbecue and blues.

Though it’s only a 3.5-hour drive along I-22 to get where you’re going, it’s the little stops and side attractions along the way that will make this trip truly special. After all, life’s not about the destination but the journey.

DAY 1

Kick off your big trip in Birmingham with a mini tour of the Magic City. Get a bird’s eye view of downtown atop Red Mountain at Vulcan, a giant statue of a Roman god and unofficial mascot of the city. Then, spend the day enjoying a progressive food tour of the many James Beard nominated restaurants. Lunch at Johnny’s Greek-and-three restaurant is always delicious and snagging a table at Chez FonFon, Bottega, or Automatic Seafood is always a coveted move.

Grab a drink at cocktail bars like Queen’s Park and Juniper, or kick it with the locals at Mom’s Basement. Pay a visit to the Civil Rights Museum and the Birmingham Museum of Art and finish your visit with a scoop or two of artisan ice cream at Big Spoon Creamery.

Drive 40 minutes up the road to Jasper, where you can spend some time getting to know the small town of almost 17,000.

Take a stroll through the historic downtown to see iconic buildings like Jasper City Hall, post office, and the Masonic temple and stop into locally owned shops, restaurants, and boutiques. After, grab a pint (or two!) at Tallulah Brewing Company or Twister Barley Brewing, located just two blocks from one another.

DAY 2

After a night in Jasper, take a 20-minute detour north toward Bankhead National Forest. Along the way (actually just five minutes north of town), stop at the Bankhead House & Heritage Center, a local museum located in the 1824 federal-style house where former Alabama representative William Bankhead lived. The home is now dedicated to telling the story of Walker County and the men who served as part of the U.S. Congress.

Once you get to Bankhead National Forest, plot your course to see canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and springs in this natural preserve. Hiking trails abound. If the weather is warm, you can go swimming or canoeing at one of the lakes.

And if you’re feeling extra bold, book a campsite and spend the night in a tent under the stars. While you’re in the area, see the 148-foot sandstone bridge at Natural Bridge Park. It’s an Alabama treasure you won’t want to miss!

Continue the path back down to I-22 through Winfield, where you should stop for a show inside the historic Pastime Theatre, a restored theater where you can see everything from country to classical music performances. After, grab dinner at local favorite Cajun Connection. A fried shrimp po’boy or catfish plate is the perfect thing to set you on your merry way.

DAY 3

Since you’ve made it this far, cross over into the Magnolia State and stop in Tupelo, Mississippi. The birthplace of Elvis Presley has plenty to see, including the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’s childhood home and a museum dedicated to his life. While you’re in town, don’t miss the Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo, where you can see everything from bison and pot belly pigs to zebras and emus. Stay the night in the city’s only boutique hotel. The Hotel Tupelo has 79 charming and sophisticated rooms, plus a trendy bar and eatery called Jobos.

Before leaving town, don’t miss a meal to Kermit’s Soul Kitchen, a favorite farm-to-table spot known for its smoked barbecue favorites like ribs, chicken, and brisket.

Take the final leg of your trip north across the state line to Memphis, Tennessee. You can find more Elvis memorabilia at the superstar’s iconic home of Graceland. Then, visit Beale Street to learn all about the blues.

Have dinner at The Beauty Shop, an eclectic new American eatery housed in a former salon where you can nosh on dishes like Watermelon & Wings and a Jamaican Jerk Fish Club Sandwich. Other must-stops are the Broad Avenue Arts District and Dixon Gallery & Gardens.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)

They say there’s no place like home for the holidays, but few places in the world know how to celebrate the season quite like Germany. Alabamians can get the best of both worlds—with traditions near and far—during Christmas in Cullman.

The monthlong celebration pays homage to the Southern town’s German heritage with a series of events designed to help locals and visitors alike get in the Christmas spirit.

Cullman was founded by German refugee Col. Johan Gottfried Cullmann from Frankweiler (then Bavaria) in 1877. Cullmann initially lived in Cincinnati, Ohio but soon after began ideating about creating a colony where immigrants could work and live together. He bought passage on a boat to Florence, Alabama and met with Governor Patton to present the idea. From there, he was given men and horses for his expedition through North Alabama. A few years and a few thousand colonists later, Cullman was born.

For the past few decades, Cullman has been celebrating in style with a full schedule of events now known as Christmas in Cullman. Arguably the main attraction of Christmas in Cullman, the annual lighting of the Christmas Pyramid, takes place on the day after Thanksgiving.

Known in Germany as the Weihnachtspyramide, this traditional German decoration is a multi-level pyramid where each segment represents different seasonal elements through wooden figures and scenes. The top is crowned with a large fan. Typically, the seasonal décor is hung from the ceiling or set on a table, but since Cullman’s towers over 30 feet in the air, and is the tallest such structure in the U.S., it stands alone near the Cullman County Museum.

The lighting of the pyramid will take place at 6 p.m. on November 25. Pyramid level themes include: the Nativity, nutcrackers, Santa and snowmen, angels, honoring Cullman’s heroes, and angels in Heaven.

Cullman’s Christmas celebrations continue into December with the annual Christmas Parade on December 2. The nighttime parade kicks off at 6 p.m. from Busy Bee Café and ends its route at Depot Park, where the annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony will occur following the conclusion of the parade. The ceremony includes music, crafts for kids, pictures with Santa, food and the lighting of the town’s 72-foot tree. Seeing the community’s businesses and locals come together to light up the town is something truly special.

If you’re still not convinced that Cullman during the holiday season is an absolute must, Cullman’s Christkindlmart should do the trick. Modeled after a traditional German Christmas market, Cullman’s rendition features a collection of wooden tents housing local vendors. You’ll find everything from holiday ornaments to gifts and other handmade items. Stroll through the outdoor market with a warm glühwein in hand and let all your European Christmas dreams come true.

Though not part of the German traditions, another event that’s fun for the whole family is the Sportsman Lake Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Display, held on select dates from November 18 through December 30. Pile into the car with friends and family to see over a million lights and themed displays. To add to the festivities, there’s also a Christmas train, carriage rides, snow machine, hot chocolate, and photo booth to capture all your special memories.

(Courtesy of SoulGrown)