Birmingham magazine May 2020

SEE INSIDE THREE

MEET THE MAN BEHIND

EXPERIENCE THE WILD BEAUTY

UNIQUE BEACH HOMES

THE ICONIC 30A BRAND

OF THE OUTER BANKS

PAGE 46

PAGE 60

PAGE 67

THE BEACH ISSUE

PLUS

MEET OUR 2020 TOP ATTORNEYS

PAGE 74

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Progress Looks Like Taking The Small Steps That Make a New House

Home

Matt Bearden

VP | Mortgage Investor Relations mbearden@myprogressbank.com 205.705.1642 direct 205.533.5943 cell NMLS# 594920

Steve Odle

Mortgage Loan Officer sodle@myprogressbank.com 205.705.1668 direct 205.586.8456 cell NMLS# 543177

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THE BEACH ISSUE MAY

Retreat to the Beach See inside three unique homes along the Gulf Coast.

BY LAUREN HELMER PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER PAUL LUKER

46 A Way of Life Meet the man who started the popular 30A lifestyle brand.

BY TARA MASSOULEH MCCAY

60 A Wild Escape Experience the natural beauty of North Carolina’s coast on an adventure to the Outer Banks.

BY JULIA SAYERS GOKHALE

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER PAUL LUKER

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• TABLE OF CONTENTS

23 42

35

TABLE

30 05

From the Editor 06 Snapshot

CITY LIFE 09 Arts

DIGITAL GRAFFITI FESTIVAL

12

What’s Wrong?

What’s Right?

23 Spotlight

35

SOL Y LUNA

SEA ISLAND, GA

27

Food Fight

39

STEAK TACOS

13 Update 14

The Buzz

16

The Hot List

17

It’s a Southern Thing

18

People of Birmingham

LIVING

28

Cooking 101

ICEBOX PIES

30

Happy Hour

MAYAWELL

33

City Bite

ROCKET SHRIMP FROM OFF THE HOOK

Take Off Shop Local

SOAP FROM HARMONY CREEK FARM

40

24 Hours

NAVARRE BEACH, FL

42

Wish List

BEACH BAGS

74

Top Attorneys

SPECIAL PROMOTION

95 Quiz

CHOOSE YOUR BEACH

96 Postscript MAY 20

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MAY 2020 Volume 60, Issue 05

EDITORIAL Julia Sayers Gokhale (1) EDITOR IN CHIEF jsayers@al.com

SALES Deidra K. Diaz (2) ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ddiaz@al.com, 205-325-3343

Tara Massouleh McCay (3)

MARKETING

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Don Taylor (5)

tmassouleh@al.com

PRODUCTION detaylor@advancelocal.com

John Archibald, Verna Gates,

205-325-3336

Lauren Helmer, Will Lochamy, Anna Mazurek, Sarah Cook McBride, Matt Mitchell, Eric Velasco CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CIRCULATION CUSTOMER SERVICE 205-325-2408 800-357-9553

DESIGN

Birmingham@omeda.com

Nicole Gerrity (4) CREATIVE DIRECTOR ngerrity@al.com

ADMINISTRATION Tom Bates PRESIDENT

J.D. Crowe, Mary Fehr, Kassady Gibson,

Alabama Media Group

Laurey Glenn, George Harris, Patricia Lay, Christopher Paul Luker, Michael J. Moore, Tamika Moore, Cary Norton, Tonia Trotter

Kelly Ann Scott VICE PRESIDENT, CONTENT Alabama Media Group

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, ILLUSTRATORS, AND STYLISTS

Bart Thau VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING Alabama Media Group Natalie Pruitt CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER Alabama Media Group

COVER PHOTO BY LAUREY GLENN

Mail letters and story ideas to Editor, Birmingham magazine, 1731 First Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203. bhammag.com. Copyright 2018 by Birmingham magazine. All rights reserved. Not responsible for unsolicited editorial contributions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of Birmingham. Birmingham #56800 (ISSN 0006-369X) is published monthly by Alabama Media Group, 1731 First Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203. Phone: 205-325-2408 or 800-357-9553. Email: Birmingham@ omeda.com. Periodicals postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Birmingham magazine, 1731 First Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203. Subscription rate is $15 a year in the U.S. and possessions; $25 a year in Canada, Mexico and other foreign countries.

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• FROM THE EDITOR

A Mental Escape

THIS WAS A DIFFICULT issue to produce.

Our Beach Issue embodies everything there is to love about vacationing by the ocean—a favorite spring and summer activity of Birminghamians. For the past four years, we’ve

Write To Us

We’d love to hear from you! We always appreciate hearing from our readers, and we’re asking you to continue sending us feedback. What do you like about this issue? What do you want to read about next? Have you attended any of the events we’ve written about? Visited any of our featured restaurants? Let us know by emailing us at letters@bhammag. com. We look forward to seeing your name in our inbox. And keep an eye out for your comments right here under the editor’s letter in future issues!

FOLLOW US Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram! Find us via @bhammag

loved bringing this special issue to our readers, but this year, as we send the issue to press in the middle of a global pandemic, it feels different.

Here at Birmingham magazine, we work far in advance on our issues. In fact, we’ve been working on this Beach Issue since last fall. There was no way we could have seen what was coming. A week prior to sending this issue to press, Governor Kay Ivey announced our beaches would close. The city of Birmingham is under a shelter-in-place order. These times are scary, and they are challenging. But I hope this issue provides you with some hope for the future.

While traveling to Navarre Beach (page 40), Sea Island (page 35), or the Outer Banks (page 67) might not be possible right now, allow these stories to provide you with some escapism or memories of happier times—and remember, you can always plan for the future.

This issue isn’t just about destinations, though.

It’s about that indescribable, happy feeling you get at the beach. It’s a feeling entrepreneur Mike Ragsdale knows well and even built the popular lifestyle brand 30A around (you know that bright blue-and-yellow sticker you see on everyone’s car?). Read his incredible story of success on page 60. You also can get a peek into three stunning beach homes along the Gulf Coast on page 46.

Bear with us as things might have changed since press time—specifically in regards to our featured events in The Buzz (page 14). Even if

they’ve been rescheduled, you can still make a bucket list of those that appeal to you. As far as our food content this month, luckily there are several food trucks featured (page 27 and 33) that are still out on the streets serving up the dishes we write about (think spicy shrimp and authentic tacos). You also can support the brick-and-mortar restaurants we write about by ordering takeout from them until their dining rooms reopen. Even Mayawell, the new tequila and mezcal bar featured on page 30, is doing to-go cocktail kits.

Even though these are trying times, we will get through it. Businesses are finding innovative ways to support our community, and the community in turn has come out tenfold to support our local businesses.

It’s been inspiring to see, and I’m so proud of Birmingham’s strength and heart when facing hardship.

When this is all over, the first place we’re heading is the beach. In the meantime, though, kick back with this issue, close your eyes, and imagine the sound of the crashing waves. We’ll be there soon, Birmingham.

JULIA SAYERS GOKHALE, EDITOR IN CHIEF | jsayers@al.com Follow me on Instagram @juliasayers

Together Apart Though we’re socially distant, our community is stronger than ever.

Here’s how we’re doing our part to stay connected and engaged.

In these uncertain times, we all have had to adapt to new ways of life. Businesses have found new ways to serve the public, restaurants have shifted to focus on to-go and delivery orders, and gyms have begun offering virtual fitness classes. Though it’s not ideal, we’ve been extremely impressed with the fortitude of our small business owners to adjust and make the best of the situation. It’s our role as Birminghamians to keep the spirit of our city alive by supporting the many businesses who make the Magic City truly magic. Follow us on Instagram @bhammag as we continue to share the efforts of our local businesses, and learn how you can support them. If you are a business owner, feel free to tag us on Instagram for a share, or email us directly at letters@bhammag.com to let us know how we can help.

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• SNAPSHOT

HANGING OUT Although this year’s Hangout Festival has been postponed due to the pandemic, we’re still celebrating the spirit of the carefree music festival with this throwback to the 2018 event. Since 2010, Hangout has provided music lovers from around the world with top-notch entertainment set against the beautiful backdrop of Alabama’s white sand beaches and crystal-clear Gulf Coast waters.

Photo submitted by Ginnard Archibald (@ginnard on Instagram). Share your best photos with us by tagging @bhammag on social media with #BhamSnapshot.

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CITY LIFE WHAT’S WRONG? WHAT’S RIGHT? 12 • UPDATE 13 • THE BUZZ 14 THE HOT LIST 16 • IT’S A SOUTHERN THING 17 • PEOPLE OF BIRMINGHAM 18

PHOTO BY KURT LISCHK A

Scenes from last year’s Digital Graffiti festival in Alys Beach

A Blank Canvas Alys Beach’s annual Digital Graffiti festival brings color and culture to the popular beach town.

BY SARAH COOK MCBRIDE

BY DAY, ALYS BEACH is a sea of white-washed buildings. Nearby, blue waves are

arguably the only color disrupting its monotone composition. Once a year, however, those same walls will dance with vibrant and colorful animations after sunset.

Alys Beach’s Digital Graffiti event, typically held in May but rescheduled to October 2–3 this year, invites artists from around the globe to showcase their impressive talents in digital technologies. By projecting myriad colors, shapes, and illustrations onto the town’s iconic white walls, artists are ushering in a new wave of creativity that speaks directly to a technology-driven culture. Now in its 13th year, the festival has grown to attract a hybrid type of artist—one that is deft in both visual aesthetics, as well as streams of code undecipherable to the untrained eye.

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The festival started in 2018 as a way to recognize and celebrate digital artists from around the world. Inspired by college memories of projecting video games onto walls of friends’ apartments and dorm rooms, festival founder Mike Ragsdale recognized an opportunity hidden within the white walls of Alys Beach. By marrying technological innovations with interactive art displays, the Digital Graffiti festival was born. “It truly celebrates the intersection of art, technology, and architecture,” says Alexis Miller, director of events for Alys Beach.

Sometimes referred to as “guerilla projection,” “photon bombing,” or “urban projecting,” digital graffiti is an art form that blends animation, design, and projection technology to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of digital graffiti, artist Ian Gouldstone says, is that it can only be experienced once. Unless captured on video, digital graffiti is a fleeting wonder. “It’s a way to speak to people using contemporary technology. It’s a live performance of animation.” says Gouldstone, who won Best in Show for his work, “Wanton Boys,” at last year’s festival.

His piece, which featured colorful geometric elements that bounced between architecture, was inspired by a Shakespearean play. It spoke to the universal emotion of feeling confined by others and yourself.

One of the challenges of crafting digital graffiti, Gouldstone explains, is considering how images, shapes, and colors will appear when projected onto different surfaces. In 10

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Top left and this photo: “Wanton Boys,” last year’s Digital Graffiti winner

the case of Alys Beach’s architecture—which provides the equivalent of a blank canvas with its white walls—elements to consider are windows, doors, and other features.

Shapes that wiggle, squirm, and explode are some of the animations that’ll bounce between each home’s features. Some of the elaborate and innovative projections invite viewers to interact with the art directly. This could look like stepping into the projection and becoming a part of its story, or swinging on a giant swing that triggers musical notes with each new height reached. The effect, organizers say, becomes an augmented reality, blending the artistic world

with the tangible one.

Hopefully, Gouldstone says, viewers enjoy what they see but also ponder the projections’ meanings. “I want people to come away from the experience with different ideas, different feelings,” he says. “The main thing for me, in all of my work, is about trying to stimulate people’s imaginations while using technology to speak a contemporary language.”

The festival attracts droves of filmmakers, musicians, photographers, and avid consumers of all things art. Digital submissions for the event pour in from places as far away as Israel, Austria, India, and China. The result is a cul-

FAR LEFT AND BOTTOM PHOTO BY FELIX CLOVELLY | TOP RIGHT PHOTO BY KURT LISCHK A

• CITY LIFE | ARTS

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TOP PHOTO BY KURT LISCHK A | BOTTOM PHOTOS BY FELIX CLOVELLY

• CITY LIFE | ARTS

Left and this photo: “Wanton Boys,” last year’s Digital Graffiti winner

tural event that knows no boundaries. Paired with the New Urbanism style of architecture that surrounds the beach, the weekend evokes a foreign appeal. The white-sand shoreline is one of the only reminders that you’re still on the Gulf Coast. “Alys Beach is a really unique place, and to have art situated there makes it a very unique experience,” says Gouldstone, who will be attending this year’s festival as an artist in residence.

The 2020 festival will place special emphasis on technology and the increasingly large role it plays in the relationship between art and its audience. “The interaction between the artist’s

creations, the environment, architecture, and the audience generates an experience that isn’t replicable,” Miller says. “Each festival is, in itself, its own masterpiece—a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Once darkness descends on the beach and the animations take over the previously white walls, Brett Phares, longtime curator of the festival, along with a panel of esteemed judges, selects which projections showcase the most creativity and originality while festivalgoers enjoy sophisticated cocktails and high-brow fare.

When the plug is pulled and the sun rises on the morning after festival weekend, lively

images are likely to still echo and dance in the eyes and minds of those who witnessed the magic the night before.

“You can sort of imagine the potential of the place even when all those things aren’t there,” Gouldstone says of this after-effect. “It’s really an amazing thing to do for a community.”

DETAI LS LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL AT ALYSBEACH.COM/EVENTS/ DIGITAL-GRAFFITI-2020.

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What’s Wrong?

What’s Right?

Where do we stand? Will Lochamy of Birmingham Mountain Radio weighs in on what’s happening in our city.

RIGHT Andy Kennedy being hired as the new UAB basketball coach is a literal game changer. The team was in much need of a shot in the arm, and Kennedy is giving that to one of the best medical schools in the country.

Birmingham’s own Rashada LeRoy and her LRY Media Group were chosen from companies all over the country to produce the World Games opening and closing ceremonies. As an African American woman-owned firm, this is a huge step in the right direction.

Stepping up to help our local students, UAB is providing matching dollars to the Birmingham Promise scholarship.

Promise participants who are firsttime freshman choosing to attend UAB will get a one-to-one tuition scholarship match.

UAB does it again!

While we, as a community, country, and planet, have experienced one of the worst crises in our history, the love and support shown to neighbors and businesses in need has been unprecedented. It’s the one thing that hasn’t shocked me recently.

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CLOCK WISE FROM TOP LEFT: PHOTO BY THOMAS GRANING | PHOTO BY ROY S. JOHNSON | PHOTOS VIA ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/ YUOAK , MICROSTOCKHUB

• CITY LIFE | WHAT’S WRONG? WHAT’S RIGHT?

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• CITY LIFE | UPDATE

UPDATE

This month’s Magic City news FINANCING FOR THE FUTURE Two local female financial advisors have teamed up to create a new business dedicated to helping women understand and plan for their financial future. The Wealth Edit LLC launched on International Women’s Day in March. The business is based around an online program where women take a quiz that places them on one of six paths to help them plan their financial trajectory. The subscription includes online path coaching, as well as a few other free services.

BATTERY PACKED

Birmingham at the Beach

CLOCK WISE FROM TOP LEFT: PHOTO VIA ALYS BEACH ART VIA ISTOCK .COM/LANKOGAL | ICONS VIA ISTOCK .COM/BANANAJAZZ

NEXT TIME YOU VISIT 30A , and specifically Alys Beach, check

out the handy work of one of Birmingham’s very best. Last spring, Nequette Architecture & Design completed ZUMA, a 15,000square-foot multi-function wellness center. Named after the Mediterranean word for peace and wellness, the facility is open to Alys Beach homeowners and guests and includes a lift room, movement room, cardio room, and recovery room, plus an indoor/outdoor pool, two treatment rooms, steam rooms, tennis courts, and gorgeous natural exterior spaces. ZUMA’s breathtaking design is based around natural light, large glass framing, luxurious landscaping, and calming water features.

WHO’S ON FIRST? THREE IN ONE We all know about the live-workplay community concept, and now a new downtown condo development called 2323 is taking that idea to heart with signature live-work units. Ideal for entrepreneurs and those who work from home, the units feature separate street entrances for customers. To address the play portion, 2323 condos, located at 2323 Second Avenue South, are within walking distance of many Birmingham entertainment districts, including Pepper Place, The Battery, and the Rotary Trail.

A new mixed-use development is in the works for the former Armour & Co. meat processing building on First Avenue North, next to The Literary Council of Central Alabama. The development by Christopher Architecture & Interiors will include 24 one-, two-, and three-bedroom residential units, as well as 20,000 square feet of commercial space. The commercial space will consist of a co-working space and a restaurant.

Developer Ward Neely brought The Battery to downtown’s Automotive Historic District in 2018. Home to popular businesses including Birmingham District Brewing Company, Gus’s World Famous Hot Chicken, Magic City Nutrition, and True 40, the development has quickly become a staple in the downtown scene. Two years later, Neely is set to do it again with part two of The Battery, slated for a historic former hotel across the street. The Battery II will take over the EyersRaden Building and include 40,000 square feet of retail shops and restaurants. A coffee shop and an old Florida dive bar concept inside a shipping container already have signed on for the $10 million project.

Paying homage to the building’s former life as a boarding house, the top two floors of the building will be transformed into a 22-room hotel.

RETAIL ROUNDUP

Here’s the rundown on area merchants, including new openings, expansions, and relocations.  Chop – A Florida-based barbershop chain put its first Alabama roots down in Hoover. The new barbershop for men and women is located in the Patton Creek Shopping Center and offers haircuts, beard trims, coloring, and more.  SEE – Standing for Selective Eyewear Elements, this optical boutique is now open at The Summit between The Cheesecake Factory and Chuy’s. The eyewear store sells high-quality and limited-edition glasses frames, and also has an optometrist on site for eye exams.  Warby Parker – The popular national eyewear retailer is expanding its Pizitz location into the former Yellowhammer Creative space. The store’s additional square footage will make room for comprehensive eye exams and in-store contact lens fittings as part of the launch of Scout, the brand’s line of daily contact lenses.  Carriage House Weddings – After 16 years in Homewood, local bridal boutique Carriage House has made the move to Mountain Brook. The new 1,300-square-foot shop is located in the Lane Parke development across from the recently opened Sol y Luna.

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• CITY LIFE | THE BUZZ

THE BUZZ

What’s happening around town this month

May 2

Grab your finest hats and head to Soho Social for The Charity League’s Kentucky Derby viewing party.

Cheer on your favorite horse and jockey while decked out in your finest derby apparel, mint julep in hand. Prizes will be awarded for best hat, as well as best dressed male, female, and couple. Raffle prizes and games also will be part of the free event, which benefits speech- and hearing-impaired children in Alabama.

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PENSACOLA CRAWFISH FESTIVAL

May 8-10

Get your fill of mudbugs at this annual food festival featuring 16,000 pounds of boiled crawfish, fresh from Louisiana. Held at Pensacola’s Community Maritime Park, the event also features other Cajun fare, including boudin, jambalaya, etouffee, fried seafood, gumbo, and more. A kids’ area featuring a playground, face painting, games, and arts and crafts will provide kids with plenty of festival fun. fiestapensacola.org/crawfish-festival

thecharityleague.org/calendar

Cullman Strawberry Festival May 2

Celebrate all things strawberry at Cullman’s annual Strawberry Festival. The festival marks the beginning of strawberry season in the South and has been around for more than 80 years. Fresh strawberries will be plentiful; special dishes include strawberry ice cream, shortcake, lemonade, and daquiris. The festival also will feature live music, arts and crafts vendors, kids’ activities and rides, and a vintage car show. facebook.com/cullmanstrawberryfest

Corporate challenge May 16

The Corporate Challenge takes team building to the next level with a day of fun, healthy competition at Railroad Park. For the past five years, Chick-fil-A has put on the competition where local businesses compete against one another in events like dodgeball, tug-of-war, golf, jump rope, cornhole, home run derby, rock climbing, basketball, and more. bhamcorporatechallenge.com 14

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CLOCK WISE FROM TOP LEFT: PHOTOS VIA ISTOCK .COM/JCPHOTO, BHOFACK 2, RAWPIXEL , ANILAKKUS

KENTUCKY DERBY VIEWING PARTY

BEACH EVENT!

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CLOCK WISE FROM TOP LEFT: PHOTO BY JOE SONGER | PHOTO BY VASHA HUNT | PHOTOS VIA ISTOCK .COM/TERRYJ, ANTMOORE

• CITY LIFE | THE BUZZ

DO DAH DAY

May 16

One of Birmingham’s oldest traditions, Do Dah Day is a celebration of our furry friends. The event includes a parade of owners, pets, and floats with prizes for the best float, best team, largest pet, best movie-themed pet, best dressed pet, and best pet/owner look-alike. The event also includes a kids’ area, live music, food, and drink. The parade begins at 11 a.m. and festivities in Rhodes Park along Highland Avenue begin at 12 p.m. The event benefits animal charities in the Birmingham and Jefferson County areas. dodahday.org

LEGION FC

May 16 and 30

Don’t miss your chance to see our USL team on their home turf at BBVA Field. The Legion takes on Saint Louis FC at 6:30 p.m. on May 16 and Sporting Kansas City II at 6:30 p.m. on May 30.

Tickets start at $15. bhmlegion.com

Alabama Bonsai Spring Show May 16-17

Head to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ auditorium for a weekend of bonsai education from the Alabama Bonsai Society. The annual spring show features bonsai trees on display and for sale, as well as demonstrations by bonsai masters and vendors selling pots, tools, and soil, so you can plant your own living works of art. facebook.com/AlabamaBonsaiSociety

BIRMINGHAM’S NEXT HOT DOG CONTEST May 30

Think your dog is the cutest in the ‘Ham? Put your money where your mouth is by entering your pup in The Animal League of Birmingham’s dog contest at Avondale Brewing. Enter your furry pal in up to 11 categories ranging from “Best Fur-do” to “Best Dressed” or “Sassiest Senior.” The event also will include vendors, food, and music. Proceeds benefit rescues, shelters, and needy animals in the Birmingham area. animalleagueofbirmingham.com MAY 20

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• CITY LIFE | THE HOT LIST

THE HOT LIST Books, movies, albums, TV shows, and more— this month’s top culture picks BY ANNA MAZUREK

WHO TO FOLLOW:

@VisitAlBeaches

No matter the destination for your summer beach trip, follow local social media accounts to find activities and aid in trip planning. The Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism board is active on all social media channels as @VisitALBeaches, posting information about events, restaurant suggestions, and overall inspiration with stunning photographs. They also have a YouTube channel.

WHAT TO WATCH: Of Shark and Man

THIS STUNNING PHOTO BOOK from

travel writer Carrie Miller hit shelves in February and features 350 photographs from National Geographic to inspire your next trip to the ocean. The book covers every corner of the world, from Hawaii to Antarctica. It’s more than just a coffee table book, though. It also includes guides to marine life, conservation tips, and diving advice from famous National Geographic explorers and divers. The book is divided into

three sections—beginner, intermediate, and advanced/all-level dives.

Contributor Brian Skerry digs into the intrigue of the underwater world, writing “For those who dive, the water’s edge is never the end of the trail: it’s just the beginning.

Beneath the waves awaits a realm quite unlike any other on Earth, where on any given day absolute magic can be found.” Whether you’re a seasoned diver or an armchair enthusiast, this book is the ultimate diving bucket list.

WHAT TO DOWNLOAD: Hoopla Digital Hoopla Digital is an online platform that provides free access to e-books, audiobooks, and movies with your public library card. The app is available for all smart phones and e-readers, and also is accessible directly through Hoopla’s website. It’s an excellent way to download travel guides and audiobooks for your beach trip, and with a massive library of new releases and classics, you’re sure to stay entertained on even the longest of road trips.

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Thirty-two-year-old David Diley walked away from his dead-end industrial job in Northern England to do something exceptional and unexpected—make a documentary about sharks in the tropics. The stunning cinematography gets up-close and personal with some of the world’s biggest and most dangerous sharks. The documentary is essentially a love letter to sharks and shares the story of the famous Shark Reef in the Pacific. It’s available for free streaming with Amazon Prime.

WHAT TO BINGE: Outer Banks

For fans of “Riverdale,” “The O.C.,” and “Gossip Girl,” Netflix’s new show “Outer Banks” provides the perfect blend of crime, adventure, and teen drama in a gorgeous setting. The coming-of-age story follows a tight-knit group of local teens in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The search for a missing father, forbidden romances, a high-stakes treasure hunt, and the escalating conflict between the friends and their rivals turn their summer into one filled with mystery and adventure they’ll never forget. The show hit Netflix April 15.

CLOCK WISE FROM LEFT: PHOTO VIA ISTOCK .COM/JOEBELANGER | PHOTOS VIA @VISITALBEACHES PHOTOS VIA ISTOCK .COM/IMAGEDEPOTPRO, AKLIONK A

WHAT TO READ: “100 Dives of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Underwater Destinations” by Carrie Miller

MAY 20

4/2/20 12:01 PM

• CITY LIFE | IT’S A SOUTHERN THING

Y’all Are Doing the Beach All Wrong

How to spend a proper weekend on the Gulf Coast. BY MATT MITCHELL

ILLUSTRATION VIA ISTOCK .COM/CSA-PRINTSTOCK

I HATE TO BE THE

bearer of bad news, but y’all are doing the beach all wrong. I realize that’s a bold statement, but please hear me out.

I lived close to the beach for years and still make an annual trek down to the beautiful, white-sand shores of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores for a week-long retreat and one-man shrimp-eating competition. Upon arrival, I am immediately greeted by salty air, annoying seagulls, and thousands of license plates from states that apparently don’t have their own beaches. This article is not for those people. I can’t blame them for not knowing how to act at the beach.

This is for my fellow Alabamians. Specifically, those above what I call “The Salt Life Line,” an imaginary line that stretches from Eufaula to Grove Hill. Everyone below that line could possibly be living the “Salt Life.”

They probably know how to act when visiting the beach. As for the rest of us, we need some occasional guidance.

For starters, don’t put a Salt Life sticker on your vehicle. And while we’re on this subject, maybe leave the YETI sticker off, too. No one cares that you overpaid for a cooler.

Second, try to eat at a seafood restaurant that doesn’t sell their own line of t-shirts. Don’t get me wrong, I love LuLu’s and Sea-N-Suds as much as the next guy, but there are some real gems out there that don’t sell wearable billboards. These mom-and-pop places are usually off the beaten path and serve up some of the best seafood you’ve ever eaten. Those are the places the locals frequent, so just ask one of them where to find the best shrimp in town. Or look for the parking lot with the most license plates starting with the number 5 (that’s Baldwin County’s tag for everyone that’s never played the Alabama license plate game).

Remember those annoying seagulls I mentioned earlier? They’re only annoying because y’all keep feeding them. They’re actually really good at finding their own food in the Gulf of Mexico, so stop letting them feast on your leftover Pringles.

Another tip: Invest in a big tent. Of course,

I’m talking about a canopy and not a tent you would take camping at Mount Cheaha.

I’ve always called them tents, but you should probably know the official name if you ever wander into an outdoor store looking for one.

Just know that if you say the word “canopy” out loud, you’re going to sound like you came from Wisconsin or somewhere else far away from here. Then you’ve got bigger problems than how you spend your time at the beach.

Anyway, if you like going to the beach and actually spending time on the beach, I can’t recommend a tent enough. You’ll have room for you chairs, cooler (or coolers), and whatever else you lug down to the sand every day.

Also, be prepared to lose that tent. In all my years of going to the beach, I’ve learned that the average life expectancy of a beach tent is

around 1.5 years. Yes, you should still get one.

But try not to get attached. Because it definitely won’t stay attached to you—or those little stakes used to anchor it into the sand.

I have plenty more beach advice to dispense, but I have to keep some of it for myself. Just know that a loyal beachgoer is never actually going to tell you their favorite place to eat seafood. They’d much rather you and everyone else frequent their second-favorite spot, that way they’ll never have to wait at their favorite.

Matt Mitchell is a writer for It’s a Southern Thing’s sketch comedy team, where he lends his uniquely Southern voice to help tell the story of the South. In some parts of Alabama, he is known as “The Ostrich.” It’s a long story. Follow him on Twitter @ALostrich and @southernthing.

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| Birmingham |

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4/1/20 5:21 PM

• CITY LIFE | PEOPLE OF BIRMINGHAM

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MAY 20

4/1/20 5:22 PM

An Unlikely Friendship

PRODUCED AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY TAMIKA MOORE

“My connection with Lucas has given me a special connection to nature. I’ve always enjoyed walking and being outside. I feel most spiritual and connected when I am outside or in nature. Doing that with Lucas in the bay, that is a very quiet moment for me. It is very grounding. It’s very spiritual. To me, that relationship that I have with Lucas—or just being outside, or just listening the wind blow—is the closest that I have ever felt to God. He has left a very positive impression on me. The lessons that a goose has taught me about creating a connection with nature and with life transcend into my relationships with people and how not to take that for granted.

You can create connections with people because everyone has their own story. Lucas has his own story. I think that is something that I’ve come to appreciate and value. He grounds me to what’s real.”

- Tracy Wilhelm of Foley, Alabama with Lucas the goose, who has been his friend for more than eight years.

Wilhelm is an elementary school art teacher.

People of Birmingham is a subset of People of Alabama, a human-interest project by Alabama Media Group and Alabama Bicentennial.

It features photos and stories of the people who call Birmingham (and in this case Foley) home.

MAY 20

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| Birmingham |

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WA LT O N A LEGACY O F LE I SU R E South Walton’s 26-mile stretch of sparkling white beach in Northwest Florida offers an all-natural escape, yet perfectly blends modern amenities, world-class cuisine and small town charm into an unforge� able experience.

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TABLE FOOD FIGHT 27 • COOKING 101 28 • HAPPY HOUR 30 • CITY BITE 33 A Dia de Los Muertos altar dedicated to Guillermo Castro, the restaurant’s original owner, is displayed in the restaurant.

The Sun Rises Again

Sol y Luna, a favorite Birmingham restaurant in the early 2000s, recently reopened in Mountain Brook. BY ERIC VELASCO MAY 20

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• TABLE | SPOTLIGHT

THE FIRST BITE OF SOL Y LUNA’S

crabmeat enchilada is bliss—the generous portion of sweet crustacean snaps through its corn tortilla wrap, tart tomatillo sauce, and crunchy slaw topping. Nostalgia builds with each subsequent bite of this beloved dish. It was a mainstay at the original Sol y Luna, a groundbreaking eatery in Lakeview that introduced Birmingham to tapas-style dining and premium tequilas when it opened in 1997.

Founded by Guillermo Castro, the original closed a couple of years after his fatal heart attack in 2011. Guillermo’s brother, Jorge Castro, is the central figure behind the revived Sol y Luna, which premiered in January in the Lane Parke development in Mountain Brook Village.

Jorge was a bartender at the original. He also ran its sister restaurant, Cantina Tortilla Grill, which was displaced in mid-2019 from its longtime location in the Pepper Place district. (Plans to relocate Cantina, possibly to the Avondale area or near Railroad Park were put on hold after the opportunity arose at Lane Parke for Sol y Luna.)

The new restaurant remains a family affair.

Guillermo’s and Jorge’s brother, Alex, is a partner. Jorge’s wife, Aimee, oversees the front of the house. Alex’s son, Christopher, is in charge of the servers. Jorge’s namesake son runs the bar.

Tapas-style dining is designed to be communal, which the Castros encourage by placing wooden platforms on the tables that can hold several plates. “We want people to share this food while enjoying each other’s company,” Castro says.

Much of the menu will be familiar to Sol y Luna old-timers, including the smoky tequila24

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Clockwise from top left: Queso Flameado with Chorizo. The restaurant’s new location is in the Lane Parke development in Mountain Brook Village. The Shrimp Diabla features smoky tequila-chipotle shrimp.

chipotle flambé called Shrimp Diabla ($17), and Iron Skillet Mussels ($14) with a hearty broth of wine, garlic, chipotle, and lime juice that begs to be sopped with the toasted bolillo bread that accompanies it.

Sabana Mexicana, cheese-topped beef medallions and chipotle-tomato chutney, as well as the rich-and-creamy Tomatillo Lobster Soft Taco (both are market price) also are favorites among customers past and present.

Another top-selling dish from the original, Red Snapper al Mojo de Ajo (market price), is sauteed with large shrimp and doused with a reduction of wine, spicy dried chiles de arbol, garlic, and onion.

“We have a lot of customers who remember Sol y Luna,” Jorge Castro says. “And we’ve had a lot of new ones stop in because they heard about it.”

Fans of Cantina and its catering operation

might recognize Sol y Luna’s Grilled Salmon ($16) and Duck Empanadas ($14). The latter is a pastry-wrapped blend of savory shredded duck meat, creamy cojito cheese, and chunky salsa made with purple onion, minced fresh chilis, cilantro, and bell peppers.

Don’t overlook the Chile en Nogada, ($14), a relleno-like roasted poblano pepper stuffed with ground beef and dried fruit, seasoned with cinnamon. The creamy topping of goat cheese, garlic-pecan sauce, and dried fruit enhances its piquancy.

Desserts include sticks of deep-fried churros and crepes filled with platanos, a type of banana. Both ($7) come with cajeta, Mexican-style caramel made with goat’s milk.

Sol y Luna’s drink menu features more than three-dozen tequilas. Most are $5-$15 a pour; a shot of the restaurant’s most exclusive tequila, Rey Sol Extra Anejo Private Selection, is $53.

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4/2/20 12:05 PM

• TABLE | SPOTLIGHT

Clockwise from top left: Aimee and Jorge Castro have reopened the restaurant of Jorge’s late brother, Guillermo. Shredded Beef Flautas are on the tapas menu.

The ceiling in the dining room is covered with small white lights that look like a starry sky. The Sol Y Luna margarita is spiked with serrano peppers. The Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup features three different chilis. The bar’s Cucumber Mojito is made with Campesino rum, soda, lime, cucumber. mint, and simple syrup.

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• TABLE | SPOTLIGHT

Clockwise from top left: Crabmeat Enchiladas are a signature dish at Sol Y Luna. A bartender mixes up a cocktail at the bar. The new restaurant features a large, wrap-around bar. A photo of Guillermo Castro, owner of the original Sol Y Luna, is on display in the restaurant. The El Matador Margarita is made with strawberry.

With all those tequilas in stock, margaritas dominate the specialty cocktail menu. The Sol y Luna Margarita ($9) is spiked with serrano pepper. Puerto Vallarta Margarita ($9) pays tribute to the Jalisco state, the home of tequila, with tart tamarind. El Matador Margarita ($9) features hibiscus and strawberry syrup.

Familiar flavors can be found in the Cantina Margarita ($8) made with key lime, and Cantina’s signature Perfect Margarita ($9).

Other cocktails play new riffs on standards like the Old Fashioned. One version is made with barrel-aged Hornitos Black tequila ($11); another combines tequila and mezcal and is finished with mole cocktail bitters ($12).

The classic rummy Pina Colada is reimagined as a Gin Colada ($8). The Bama Mule 26

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swaps the standard vodka with whiskey from Birmingham’s Dread River Distillery.

Wines by the glass ($9–$12) or bottle (most are in the $30–$40 range) skew toward Spanish and South American labels. Beers ($4–$6 drafts/$3–$5 in bottles or cans) include both Mexican and local brews.

Sol y Luna’s interior exudes simple elegance.

White walls showcase decorative elements like a chandelier made from curly, multicolored blown glass and a mural depicting a smiling woman by a full moon. Small white lights strung along the ceiling evoke a starry sky.

Guillermo’s spirit is very much present. His portrait hangs near the bar, and a take on a Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) memorial also honors his memory.

The Castro brothers briefly considered a different concept when planning the new Sol y Luna, but felt compelled to remain true to its founder’s vision.

Asked if his brother would love the reincarnation, Jorge doesn’t hesitate. “I think he’s smiling up there.”

DETAI LS SOL Y LUNA | 920 LANE PARK COURT (MOUNTAIN BROOK VILLAGE) 205.407.4797 | SOLYLUNABHAM.COM PHOTOS BY CARY NORTON

MAY 20

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4/1/20 5:34 PM

• TABLE | FOOD FIGHT

Taco ’Bout Great Tacos

Our editorial sta ff weigh in with the ir “expert” opinion s

Our city’s got a strong taco game; see which of these fierce contenders takes home the title of top taco.

A S A D A TA C O

Restaurant: Los Dos Hermanos taco truck What’s In it: Marinated steak, cilantro, white onion, two corn tortillas, lime and hot sauce on the side Tasting Notes: “Steak has a great charred taste.” “Double corn tortillas hold up well to the filling.” “You don’t need anything fancy to make a killer taco.” “Our favorite street taco.”

Price: $2 each Rating:

PHOTOS BY K ASSADY GIBSON/FOCUS CREATIVE

A L C A R B O N TA C O

Restaurant: El Barrio Restaurante Y Bar What’s In it: Marinated sirloin steak; roasted poblanos, onions, and bell peppers; cabbage slaw; corn tortilla; spicy chipotle sauce; lime on the side Tasting Notes: “Fall-apart-tender meat with a citrusy flavor.”

“Smoky, sweet chipotle sauce is a nice addition.” “Cabbage slaw gives a good crunch.”

Price: $12.50 for 3 Rating:

THE SIZZLER

Restaurant: Taco Mama What’s In it: Grilled steak tenderloin, grilled onion, avocado, lettuce, tomato, red chili butter sauce, queso fresco, flour tortilla Tasting Notes: “Steak is really tender with good flavor from buttery red chili sauce.” “Plentiful avocado, with other fresh toppings to keep it interesting.”

Price: $10 for 2 (with chips, salsa, and a side) Rating:

TA C O S D E C A R N E A S A D A

Restaurant: Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant What’s In it: Seasoned steak, pico de gallo, hot sauce, flour tortillas Tasting Notes: “A good option for a more Americanized taco—i.e. the meat tasted like classic taco seasoning.” “Hot sauce made it super spicy.” “Pico de gallo was nice and fresh.”

Price: $12 for 3 (with rice and beans) Rating:

MAY 20

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• TABLE | COOKING 101

Easy as Pie

These icebox pies are simple to make, great for a hot day, and require very little (if any) cook time. BY ERIC VELASCO WHEN THE WEATHER’S HOT and the

beach beckons, chilling with a slice of icebox pie does the trick.

This old-school Southern-style treat sweetly beats the heat. Simple to make, icebox pies require little time in a hot oven, if any. Even the pie crusts are no-bake. And the pies are served cold, sometimes even frozen.

It’s easy to see why icebox pies were so appealing when they became popular in the late 1800s, long before the first electric refrigerators.

They were named for the cold-storage device, chilled by a block of ice, where they were kept.

Traditionally, neither of the following pies would have been baked. Chilling set the filling.

The lemon or lime juice in some icebox pies also helps set egg yolks, similar to how those juices simulate the effects of cooking in dishes like seafood ceviche.

But the potential for salmonella infection

through eggs, a byproduct of mass-production, has been a consumer health concern since the 1980s. Pasteurized eggs are an alternative.

(In recipes that call for whipping the whites, pasteurized eggs do not work as well as regular, but that’s not an issue here.)

This recipe for Lemon Icebox Pie, enriched with egg yolks, includes a brief turn in the oven for reassurance. But infection from eggs is extremely rare, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Using fresh eggs from a reputable local farmer further lessens chances.

Like mousse, foamy cocktails, tartare, and the other ways we commonly consume raw or undercooked eggs, you should be able to enjoy if it’s from a trusted source.

Making lemon icebox and key lime pies are similar. But since key limes are hard to find and harder to juice, using the bottled key-lime product makes sense.

But don’t cheat yourself on this lemon pie.

Fresh-squeezed lemon juice and microplaned zest make a huge difference in taste.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie is not only an egg-free, no-bake pie, it also is easily assembled.

The only special equipment required is a food processor for graham cracker or cookie crust (and in a pinch you can crush them in a resealable bag).

I cranked the chocolate quotient to 11 by using Oreos with chocolate filling instead of the original. Their icing-like filling creates a challenge when breaking down the cookies, but pays off with a luxurious crust.

The peanut butter-sugar-butter mixture is easy to mix by hand. A microwave and heatproof glass measuring cup makes short work of preparing the chocolate ganache topping.

Use a hot knife to slice the pie. Then savor the flavor—and chill out.

Lemon Icebox Pie Serves 8

14 graham crackers (about 1½ sleeves) 1 stick butter, melted 2 cans sweetened condensed milk 3 egg yolks Zest from 2 lemons

Fresh whipped cream (optional) 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Make crust by pulverizing crackers

in a food processor, making sure no chunks remain. Pour into a mixing bowl and add melted butter. Stir until blended. Press crust along the bottom and side of a pie plate until it’s evenly distributed and there are no holes in the bottom. Refrigerate 30 minutes or freeze 10 minutes.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine remaining

ingredients until well-incorporated. Pour mixture into pie crust. Bake 15 minutes until filling is set but still slightly jiggly. Cool for

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1 hour on a wire rack and refrigerate several hours, until cool.

4. Before serving, top with whipped cream,

preferably freshly made.

PHOTO VIA ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/MPHILLIPS007

1¼ cups fresh-squeezed lemon juice (approx. 5 large lemons)

MAY 20

4/1/20 5:38 PM

• TABLE | COOKING 101

Peanut Butter Chocolate Pie Serves 8

PHOTO VIA ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/HEDIDWHAT

14 tablespoons (1¾ sticks) unsalted butter, divided 1 package (24) Oreo cookies (I used chocolate filled) 1½ cups (about ¾ pounds) creamy peanut butter 1 cup powdered sugar 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips ½ cup heavy whipping cream Peanuts (optional for garnish)

1. Remove one stick (8 tablespoons) of

butter from refrigerator to soften. Melt remaining butter and set aside.

2. Make crust by pulverizing cookies

in a food processor, making sure no chunks remain. Pour into a mixing bowl and add melted butter. Stir until blended. Press crust along the bottom and side of a pie plate until it’s evenly distributed and there are no holes in the bottom. Refrigerate 30 minutes or freeze 10 minutes.

3. Make the filling by blending peanut

butter, softened butter, and powdered sugar until all ingredients are well incorporated. Remove pie plate from refrigerator, evenly spread filling over crust and return to refrigerator for 30

minutes (or 10 minutes in the freezer) to set.

4. Add half of the cream to a glass

measuring cup and warm for 15 seconds in a microwave. (You can do this same process in a pot or doubleboiler on the stove, if desired.) Add chocolate chips and remaining cream.

Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring after each, until chocolate melts and blends with cream. Allow mixture to cool, about 15 minutes.

5. Remove pie from refrigerator. Spread

chocolate mixture over the surface.

Refrigerate for 1–6 hours, covering with plastic wrap when chocolate shell hardens. Top with peanuts as garnish, if desired.

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• TABLE | HAPPY HOUR

Down the Rabbit Hole

Tequila and mezcal bar Mayawell showcases these Mexican spirits via craft cocktails and a fun atmosphere. BY ERIC VELASCO

The Polilla Luna cocktail is made with blanco tequila, St. Germain, cucumber, and lavender.

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MAY 20

4/1/20 5:41 PM

• TABLE | HAPPY HOUR

Clockwise from top left: Mayawell is located near Pepper Place. Neill Crook, Katie Toomey, and Adam Toomey run Mayawell. The bar features plenty of seating, including a banquette along the wall. A selection of cocktails left to right: Unknown Pleasures (blanco tequila, Cocchi Americano, orange liqueur, mezcal mist, and grapefruit oil), Cool Your Jets (blanco tequila, mezcal, guava, jalapeño, agave, lime, coconut water), and Polilla Luna.

WITH AGAVE-BASED TEQUILA and

mezcal having their moment in the sun these days, Mayawell Agave Spirits and Cocktails has quickly become the premiere place to showcase them in Birmingham.

The name Mayawell is a play on Mayahuel, the Aztec name for the goddess of agave, a spiny-leafed plant native to the Americas that people have long fermented into alcoholic drinks, and eventually learned to strengthen through distillation.

Legend has it Mayahuel gave birth to and agave-nursed 400 rabbits, whose mischievous ways symbolize revelry, mayhem, and drunkenness in Aztec lore. Rabbit images appear throughout the bar’s exterior and interior; customers are playfully nicknamed conejitos (little rabbits).

The idea for Mayawell was conceived during

owner Neill Crook’s travels to Mexico, including the Jalisco state of western Mexico where tequila is produced, and Oaxaca in the south, where mezcal is made.

Then a forensic accountant, Crook longed for an entrepreneurial opportunity. “I started going down the rabbit hole,” he says, “and decided to open an agave bar.”

Tequila and mezcal both are made from agave, but diverge from there. By law, tequila only can be made from blue agave, one of the plant’s roughly 200 varieties. The pina, or heart, is crushed and steamed to extract its sweet juices, which are fermented and then double-distilled.

Mezcal, which generally is fermented and double-distilled in small batches in Oaxacan villages, can be made from 30 varieties of agave. Those pinas are pit-cooked with hot rocks, which imparts earthy, rustic, and sometimes

smoky flavors, says Katie Toomey, who oversees Mayawell’s bar with her husband, Adam.

Mayawell’s atmosphere is inviting and comfortable. Several tables line a banquette, while others are encircled by couches and funky chairs. There’s more seating along the bar and at high-rise tables nearby.

An outside patio seats a couple dozen, with room for 20–30 more on a second-floor deck.

The food truck Mezon Catering dispenses delicious tacos, burritos, quesadillas, loaded tater tots, and daily specials from the bar’s backyard.

“Tequila, tacos, and sunshine. What a combination!” Neill says of the symbiotic set-up.

Mayawell is well-situated, with Automatic Seafood and Oysters a block down 29th Street in one direction, and Pepper Place’s restaurants a block away in the other. People already are turning the circuit into a fun night out.

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• TABLE | HAPPY HOUR KATIE AND ADAM’S RECOMMENDATIONS TEQUILA Katie: El Tesoro Adam: Casamigos, Don Julio

MEZCAL Katie: Montelobos Adam: Banhez and Del Maguey

Clockwise from top left: Mayawell’s backyard features an outdoor patio and a place for on-site food truck Mezon Catering to park. Katie Toomey manages the bar with her husband Adam. The Cool Your Jets cocktail is a favorite signature drink. Colorful paintings and exposed brick walls give the bar’s interior a playful vibe.

Adam Toomey mixes a drink at the bar.

In addition to more than 30 tequilas and a dozen mezcals, Mayawell stocks the usual liquors. Wine is sold by the glass or bottle.

Beers include Mexican and European imports, local and craft products, and macrobrews.

The classic cocktail section of the menu ($7–$11) includes an excellent, balanced margarita; standards like the tequila-grapefruit paloma; agave riffs on the old fashioned and Moscow Mule; and divey tipples like beertomato micheladas.

“We want our agave drinks to be familiar to people who drink other spirits,” Katie says.

Several signature cocktails ($10) spotlight the versatility of both tequila and mezcal.

They’re listed with flavor, mood, or ingredient descriptors like: El Caballero (dark fruit, warm, chivalrous).

The Unknown Pleasures cocktail (bright, elegant, intriguing) plays with the flavors in a 32

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Manhattan, but its hue is clear. Exhibiting a tart nose from Cocchi Americano aperitif and orange liqueur, the tequila drink is misted with mezcal and grapefruit oil.

Cool Your Jets (spicy, tropical, hydrating) balances mezcal’s smoky and earthy qualities with the breezy sweetness of housemade guava syrup, tart lime, soothing coconut water, and blanco tequila. A sliced jalapeño garnish delivers deliciously spicy scents.

But the best way to appreciate good agave spirits is to sip them straight.

Forget every college party or foggy night spent shooting tequila. That shaker of salt should stay lost. Premium tequila and mezcal, and all their nuances, should be savored neat.

“Start by smelling,” Katie says. “Identify the aromas—fruit, earth, even gasoline, or rubber. Then you sip. Swirl it in your mouth and breathe in. With mezcal, it’s some-

times [like] boom—then the flavor’s gone.

But some linger on the palate.”

Most Mayawell tequila is $6 –$15 for 1½-ounce pours; ultra-premiums top out at $25–$40. Most mezcals are $9–$21; a few run $30–$40. Flights of three 1-ounce pours are available.

“It’s overwhelming how adventurous people are,” Adam says. “They’re really open-minded about tequila and mezcal.”

DETAI LS MAYAWELL | 2900 FOURTH AVENUE SOUTH | 205.957.4485 | HOURS: MON-.

THURS., 4 P.M.-MIDNIGHT; FRI.-SAT., 4 P.M.2 A.M. | MAYAWELLBAR.COM PHOTOS BY K ASSADY GIBSON/FOCUS CREATIVE

MAY 20

4/1/20 5:41 PM

PHOTO BY MARY FEHR

Hook, Line, and Sinker

OFF THE HOOK FOOD TRUCK has been trawling around town for several years, and they’ve now got a permanent home at The Grocery Brewpub in Homewood. Known for fresh seafood “street food,” Off the Hook serves up dishes like fish tacos, crab cake sliders, and shrimp po’boys. One of the truck’s most ordered creations is the Rocket Shrimp, a spicy and addictive dish that’s made waves in the

• TABLE | CITY BITE

city. It starts with plump Gulf shrimp, which are lightly breaded and deep fried to a perfect crisp.

The golden shrimp are then tossed in a spicy aioli until they’re thoroughly coated but still maintain their crunch. If you’ve ever had Bang Bang Shrimp, this is Off the Hook’s improved version. Topped with white and black sesame seeds, the dish will have you hooked—pun intended. ryouhooked.com

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4/1/20 5:43 PM

Imagine your home, totally organized!

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LIVING SHOP LOCAL 39 • 24 HOURS 40 •WISH LIST 42 The exterior terrace of The Cloister features a pair of grand staircases.

From Legacy to Luxury

The Cloister at Sea Island is a beautiful, historic property that has stood the test of time to become one of the nation’s most treasured resorts. BY JULIA SAYERS GOKHALE MAY 20

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• LIVING | TAKE OFF The Cloister at Sea Island is on the Blackbank River.

UPON ENTERING THE CLOISTER at Sea

Island, you’re greeted by towering oak trees.

Expertly incorporated into the landscaping, at first glance you might think nothing more of them, but these trees tell the story of Sea Island, a small island on the southern coast of Georgia.

First opened in 1928, The Cloister at Sea Island, called “The Friendly Little Hotel,” was established by Howard Coffin and A.W. Jones Sr. as part of a plan for land development on three South Georgia barrier islands: St. Simon’s Island, Sea Island, and Sapelo Island. Almost immediately, lots on Sea Island began selling and a cottage colony started to thrive. One of the hotel’s prominent guests in its first few months of business was President Calvin Coolidge. He planted an oak sapling on the property, starting a tradition for visiting presidents, dignitaries, and royalty to leave their mark by planting a tree. Today, the tradition continues, and plaques mark the oaks that stand as foundations of something great.

Just as the resort started to take off, the Great Depression hit—but it didn’t mean doom for Sea Island. Jones had an idea—the Sea Island Company would issue its own scrip to employees that could be used at every business in the county. It helped to save the resort, and The Cloister acquired international fame. Over the decades, the resort continued to grow—both in acclaim and size—and add to its list of notable guests. In fact, the resort hosted the G8 Summit in 2004 (becoming the only resort in the U.S. to do so).

Today, The Cloister is the only resort in the world to win four Forbes Five Stars for 12 years in a row. It boasts five miles of private beaches, a beach club, tennis center, spa, multiple pools, yacht club, shooting school, and children’s programs, as well as three championship golf courses, including Seaside and Plantation, home of the PGA Tour’s RSM Classic.

Other members of the Sea Island Family include The Inn at Sea Island on St. Simon’s Island, which offers casual accommodations with access to many Sea Island amenities, and Broadfield, a sporting club and lodge that offers seasonal hunting and fishing opportunities.

The Lodge also offers six new cottages with 14 sleeping rooms, an oceanfront pool, 18-hole putting course, and a new state-of-the-art golf performance center.

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Many of the rooms at The Cloister feature unique architectural details, such as exposed beams.

MAY 20

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• LIVING | TAKE OFF

Clockwise from top: Guests relax in the Garden Atrium at the Spa at Sea Island before and after treatments. An indoor pool is available to Cloister guests and Sea Island residents. At Sea Island, guests have the opportunity to get up close and personal with birds of prey during a Hawk Walk and other falconry programs.

UNWIND AND DINE

On Sea Island, you’ll feel like you’re a world away. The crown jewel of the island is still The Cloister, with its Spanish-style architecture and grand lobby boasting two-story ceilings, candelabra chandeliers, a massive fireplace, and a grand piano. The main building and its wings offer 265 rooms that seem more like upscale guest houses than stuffy hotel rooms. Many of the rooms have patios and unique features such as exposed beams, vaulted ceilings, and handcrafted Oriental rugs. What they all offer—in addition to down bedding and custom linens—is views of the spectacular property, teeming with native plants, palms, and towering trees around hidden koi ponds.

Across the street from the building is the Forbes Five Star Spa at Sea Island, a must for any visitor. At what likely will be the most beautiful spa you’ll ever experience, you’ll relax in a peaceful garden atrium while waiting for your treatment. Bamboo and palm trees surround lounge chairs with blankets, and

a babbling brook provides calming ambient noise while you unwind with provided reading material. You’ll also have access to the spa’s other amenities, including eucalyptus steam rooms, dry saunas, mineral pools, and a labyrinth.

Another spot to find your Zen is in the water atrium, a hydrotherapy pool and cascading waterfall surrounded by two-story windows.

For treatments, enjoy Thai, Swedish, Balinese, and hot stone massages; body exfoliations and polishes; and facials for every skin type.

Numerous options for activities abound at the resort, from the adults-only pool overlooking the Blackbank River and the sprawling pool at the Beach Club, to tennis, watersports, and fishing. If you want to explore the surrounding areas of St. Simon’s Island, Sea Island rents top-of-the-line BMWs to guests—for free. Take a brand-new BMW i8 with butterfly doors or a convertible Z4 for a cruise around the island.

If you’ve got kids in tow, take them to the new Sea Strike & Pub at the Beach Club.

The restaurant has an attached bowling alley where you can throw a strike while enjoying delicious pub fare like 10 Pin Nachos, buffalo chicken dip, burgers, and flatbreads (the Cali Barbecue Chicken is a winner). Adults should make a reservation at the five-star Georgian Room for the chef’s tasting menu. Reserve the Chef’s Table, a private room nestled inside the kitchen, to get an up-close look at how the restaurant runs. The Georgian Room Lounge offers small bites and cocktails in a more casual atmosphere.

The whole family can enjoy Tavola, an Italian eatery with wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas. Burrata and arancini are a great start to the meal. An extensive pasta menu features ravioli, campanelle, spaghetti, gemelli, and more; accompaniments vary with the seasons, but you’ll always find fresh seafood available in several dishes. For pizza, try the Fiche with sage oil, fig spread, marinated feta, mozzarella, speck, and arugula. Tavola also serves breakfast each morning. If you’re MAY 20

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• LIVING | TAKE OFF The pool at Sea Island’s Beach Club borders the beach.

looking for a lighter option to start your day, grab complimentary coffee and pastries in the Solarium, while the lovebirds in the circular glass room chirp their morning song.

NATURAL BEAUTY

Founder Howard Coffin was captivated by Sea Island’s natural beauty; the resort embraces that through activities that showcase the great outdoors. The best way to experience the landscape of the island is on horseback.

The resort’s stable offers beach rides, marsh rides, and equestrian training. The Sea Island Beach Ride will take you from the stables on Rainbow Island (take the resort’s shuttle golf cart five minutes up the road to get there) through marshes and over dunes onto the beach. The well-trained horses (like the sweet gentle giant Pinot) are perfect for both beginner and advanced riders. You’ll love feeling the sea breeze as you trot along the sandy shores of Sea Island.

Another unique activity that Sea Island offers is the Hawk Walk, where you’ll take an outdoor walk with a falconer and a bird of prey. After you get familiar with the hawk, the falconer will allow you to wear a leather glove and summon the flying raptor to land on your hand. It’s a thrilling feeling watching the bird swoop with grace and intention to land lightly on your outstretched arm.

Experience the sea that gives the island its name on a guided nature tour via boat. Both the Salt Marsh Nature Tour and Salt Marsh Dolphin Tour take you through tidal marshes to spot shorebirds, dolphins, and aquatic life.

You’ll also see oyster beds and other species that 38

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The Solarium in the Cloister’s main building is a favorite spot for morning coffee.

make up the unique ecosystem of the barrier islands. If you’re lucky (and you most likely will be), dolphins will come to play in the wake of your boat.

Sea Island plays hosts to couples, friends, and families, several of who come back year after year. On the resort’s website, guests reminisce on good times spent at the “Friendly Little Hotel.”

Catherine from Birmingham writes: “For the first 25 years of my life, June 16th was my favorite day. This is the day our Sea Island vacation began. The next two weeks would be the best of my summer, most of which were spent in cottages 29 and 30 on 8th Street. The entire clan would spend two weeks swimming, biking, crabbing, and charging goldbrick sundaes to their

magic Sea Island number. We loved jeep train rides, finding shells at the end of the Island, and chip and putt. We were such a large group that there would often be multiple members of the family that won bingo in the same night. These summers and the memories we share (that are too numerous to count) are treasured by all of us.”

Where the oaks still stand strong and Coffin’s and Jones’ legacy endures, Sea Island holds special memories for those that know its magic and awaits those who have yet to discover it.

DETAI LS BOOK YOUR VISIT OR FIND MORE INFORMATION AT SEAISLAND.COM. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEA ISLAND

MAY 20

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• LIVING | SHOP LOCAL

Sea and Suds

PHOTO BY CARY NORTON

Soap bar (multiple varieties), $6.50 each

SEA FOAM AND CRAFT ALES aren’t the only type of suds you can find on the Gulf Coast. Professional soap maker Ruta Qureshi, along with her husband Ali, brought their homemade soap business down South to Orange Beach in 2016. They made the move from their 25-acre Virginia farm, called Harmony Creek Farm, to Alabama in order to be closer to family.

The couple’s small-batch artisan soap business, named after their farm, combines chemistry and artistic creativity to develop more than 60 different soap varieties that are allnatural and healthy for the skin and the environment. All of Harmony Creek Farm’s soaps are made from foodquality, natural ingredients, with a variety of essential oils and fragrances.

Popular scents include Balsam Pine, Mint Mojito, Magnolia, Clean Cotton, and Lemon Thyme. The couple even pays homage to their new home with a soap called Orange Beach. The next time you visit the Gulf Coast, you can stop into their soap kitchen and boutique (located in SanRoc Cay) to pick up a freshly sliced bar or a bath bomb, or even attend a class where you can learn to make your own soap. Harmony Creek products also are available via their online store.

harmonycreekfarm.com.

MAY 20

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• LIVING | 24 HOURS

24 Hours in Navarre Beach

Spend a weekend exploring one of Florida’s hidden-gem beach towns. BY VERNA GATES WHEN YOU STAND ON THE primordial soft white sands

of Navarre Beach, you can experience what the Spanish explorers saw when they landed in New World Florida.

Follow the pristine white shoreline the whole nine miles of the Gulf Islands National Seashore to see the gentle curves of dunes, shaped by centuries of wind and water. The sea oats jet out from their tops and sides like a punk haircut, giving the appearance of Mother Nature’s sense of humor.

Billed as Florida’s most relaxing place, a visit to Navarre can be as quiet as watching a rare Least Tern silently cut the air, or as brassy as dancing to a party band at a beachside bar.

DAY 1

A.M.

BREAKFAST AT DONUTS IN PARADISE Pretend that the strawberries and cream donuts have fruit in them and thus comprise a healthy breakfast. If you need further proof of breakfast worthiness, choose the Fruity Pebbles. Or, abandon all pretense, as you are on vacation, and eat the chocolate Boston cream pie donuts. Your taste buds will thank you.

10:00

A.M.

WORK OFF BREAKFAST AT SAGE PADDLE COMPANY Sage Offutt will happily rent you a paddle board, kayak, or one of those beach bicycles that look like overgrown tricycles. Bike lanes run the length of the beach. A young entrepreneur, Sage opened her shop after receiving a devastating diagnosis of mobility issues. She turned her troubles into a business and paid off her $5,000 parental start-up loan after her first month. Her knowledge can direct you to the best places to put in a boat or crank up the peddles.

12:00

P.M.

LUNCH AT CACTUS FLOWER Order the fresh guacamole to eat with housemade chips that are remarkably greaseless.

Try the mahi mahi fish tacos for a flavor of the beach. The homemade flan might just be the best you have ever eaten—give it a try and compare.

3:30

1:30

P.M.

VISIT THE GULF BREEZE ZOO Here the howler monkeys really howl! They have a baby who works tirelessly to get away from momma, much like the human versions on the other side of the enclosure. This zoo has a large primate and big cat population among its animals that you can see fairly close up.

Ride the train through the natural area to see rhinos, hippos, orangutans, and gorillas living without walls (water does the trick). Feed the budgie birds, just beware that they may prefer the lettuce you bought for the giraffes and are not opposed to nibbling your fingers.

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P.M.

VISIT THE NAVARRE BEACH SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION CENTER When you enter the main room, Sweet Pea, the three-f lippered green sea turtle, will swim over to say hello. This curious reptile cannot be returned to the wild and serves as an education animal, or seemingly to her, the star of the show. The small center will give you a guided tour through the world of sea turtles and the center’s conservation efforts.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANTA ROSA COUNT Y TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

9:00

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• LIVING | 24 HOURS

4:00

P.M.

CHECK INTO YOUR TOWNHOUSE

BY BLUE MOON VACATIONS Beachfront townhouses with quirky murals are available from Blue Moon. The beach is just a step outside. The company is family owned; Al and Jeanette Seiders will treat you like friends.

6:30

P.M.

DINNER AT THE BEACH HOUSE BAR & GRILLE The seafood stuffed shells are worth the potential artery clog. With crab, shrimp, and bacon covered in smoked Gouda mornay, Boursin, and Parmesan, it is a meal your heart would forgive you for. As long as you have cast your diet to the wind, choose key lime pie or salted caramel cheesecake for dessert (or maybe both). You can also enjoy beach views of the sunset if you time it right.

8:00

P.M.

HEAD TO JUANA’S PAGODAS FOR LIVE MUSIC This lively restaurant/bar/playhouse lies right on the Navarre Beach Causeway. Almost any time of day or evening, you can catch volleyball games in the sand out front. In the winter, cornhole games dominate.

This entertainment complex of huts features a Sailor’s Grill, Pagoda Bar, Schooner Bar, and Deck Bar. In Club Pagodas, you can catch the big game, or take to the dance floor. The full bar offers a variety of local beers and great mixed drinks.

DAY 2

4:30

P.M.

WALK THE PRISTINE BEACH Scotch bonnets, tulip shells, lightning whelk, and calico clams can be found along your walk. As a reward for keeping so much natural beach space, Navarre wins the prize for good shelling.

5:30

8:30

A.M.

GRAB COFFEE AT DEB’S COFFEE DRIVE-THRU Deb offers everything from Jolt to Redeye at her small coffee shack on the Navarre Parkway. Get your caffeine fix here for another beautiful day at the beach.

P.M.

HAPPY HOUR AT DEWEY DESTIN’S NAVARRE The pimento cheese appetizer at the bar is the recipe of Cameron Destin-Ayers’ mother. Cameron is one in a long line of Destins—yes, the ones the beach is named after. Her great, great, great grandfather landed there in 1835. Her father’s name is Dewey, like her brother and business partner, who goes by a middle name. Have a drink and appetizer at the Navarre location of this seafood mecca that’s known for its fresh fish.

9:00

A.M.

WALK FLORIDA’S LONGEST PIER Walk the 1,545 feet of the Navarre pier. Turn back for sweeping vistas of sand and dunes. Along the way, you will encounter brown pelicans begging for fish and preening for the tourists. Fishermen line the pier and will show you their catch. Older men sit at the end telling stories and dipping a hook from time to time. Sometimes you can catch a view of fish swarming below the 30-foot-high pier. Dally long enough, and you can hit Windjammers on the Pier for a lunch of their signature crab cakes.

D ETAI L S FIND MORE INFORMATION AT GETRELAXING.COM.

MAY 20

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• LIVING | WISH LIST

Woven Vegan Leather Shoulder Bag in Neutral, at Anthropologie, $98

Jute Market Bag in Wine, at Farmstand by Stone Hollow, $125

Bag Lady

These locally sourced bags are as functional as they are stylish, and are tote-ally perfect for packing up all your favorite beach essentials.

PRODUCED BY TONIA TROTTER

Stripe Jute Cotton Tote in Charcoal, at Farmstand by Stone Hollow, $150

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PHOTOS BY CARY NORTON

Jute Cotton Cosmetic Bag in Passion Beige, at Farmstand

by Stone Hollow, $40

MAY 20

4/1/20 5:57 PM

• LIVING | WISH LIST

Woven Market Backpack, at Farmstand by Stone Hollow, $85

Large ShoreBags in Natural, at Club Duquette, $55

Can be worn as a backpack for hands-free carrying!

Medium ShoreBags in Navy, at Club Duquette, $43

Jute Market Bag in Natural, at Farmstand by Stone Hollow, $95

San Sebastian Bag in Natural, at Soca, $62 Baby Bogg Bag in Turquoise, at Mountain High Outfitters, $54.95

Baby Bogg Bag in Palm, at Mountain High Outfitters, $64.95

S OU RC E S ANTHROPOLOGIE.COM CLUBDUQUETTE.CO MOUNTAINHIGHOUTFITTERS.COM SOCACLOTHING.COM STONEHOLLOWFARMSTEAD.COM

MAY 20

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RU S S E L L L A N D S O N L AK E MA RT I N . C OM

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Life is Better at The Ridge...

Set among more than 40,000 acres of pristine water and surrounded by 25,000 acres of forest, this Lake Martin community is a refuge from the fast pace of life. It’s the perfect place to enjoy refined lake living from beautiful sunrise to breathtaking sunset. A location where The Ridge Club, marina, golf, dining, and recreation are all a stone’s throw away.

CALL

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256 . 215.7011

TO SCHEDULE A TOUR

4/1/20 6:05 PM

R E T R E AT TO THE

BE AC H A glamorous urban abode, a dreamy oceanside dwelling, and an art-forward minimalist bunker—these three beach homes capture the windswept wanderlust of the seaside in their own unique ways.

BY LAUREN HELMER | PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER PAUL LUKER

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Standing stately in Alys Beach, this pristine beach home combines Bermudan architecture with a sleek Cape Dutch-style twist.

MAY 20

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MID-CENTURY GLAM

Interior Designer Cindy Meador previously worked with the owners of this Alys Beach home, so she knew their unique aesthetic, a blend of mid-century modern and urban sophistication. “They just wanted a more glossy, urban look than the typical ‘distressed’ coastal look,” Meador says. The resulting design is reminiscent of "Mad Men's" chic set but reimagined through a thoroughly modern lens.

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1. This Alys Beach home overlooks the recently completed Turtle Bale Green, a public art display that gives a nod to the Floridian ecosystem with bronze sea turtle sculptures and meandering walkways, dappled by the shade of towering palms. 2. This third-floor terrace overlooks the surrounding villas and brilliant-blue Gulf waters beyond. 3. Glossy zebrawood cabinetry, poured terrazzo countertops, Jonathan Adler barstools, and crystal sputnik pendant lights create a striking singular look. A celestial theme runs throughout in the home’s star-like lighting, a nod to the family’s nighttime stargazing pastime. “The sky is just so amazing there, so we were drawn to lighting that resembled constellations,” Meador says. 4. This living space is anchored by a breathtaking wall covering, a close-up of the porcelain carvings of Italian artist Domitilla Biondi. 5. Will Dunn of Davis Dunn Construction built a clever home for the flatscreen TV. “The TV comes down from the ceiling so as to not cover the gorgeous walnut fireplace,” Meador says. “That was one tree that they sliced so that our grain would remain original and unbroken.” The custom fireplace is flanked by concrete dimensional tile backsplash.

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1. A brass and velvet bed in the master bedroom is accented with the homeowners’ favorite color, mid-century green. A graphic pillow and custom rug bring in texture. A handblown glass lamp sits atop a vintage shagreen bedside table. 2. In this bedroom, the modern works of art at right feature piles of colorful shoes. “I found those and I based the design for the girl’s room off of those colors,” Meador says. Pinks and periwinkle blues intermingle with mustardy yellows and olive to forest greens in a playful mix, while a firework chandelier above is accented by rose quartz. The doors throughout the home are tall, custom-made beauties designed by Meador. “They are walnut with a maple inlay and they made the biggest difference in the design of the house.” 3. This powder room features Calcutta gold marble tiles in diamond patterns. “I mimicked the shape with the mirror and the hardware,” Meador says. A halo-like light fixture illuminates the vanity space below. 4. This colorful beach home’s only all-white room is this sublime master bath. A sleek freestanding tub anchors the space, while a chic brass side table is ideal for hot tea or a glass of wine.

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In the dining area, brass and walnut chairs surround a custom marble tabletop on a bronze base. Handblown glass clouds from Italy hang overhead as pendant lights. Against the wall is a credenza embellished with charcoal-colored leather circles. Two handblown glass lamps by Joe Cariati provide additional lighting.

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After a long day of surfside play, this private courtyard lounge and pool offer a calming, shady respite.

MAY 20

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ETHEREAL ELEGANCE

Awash in natural light, this dreamy beachside home in Carillon Beach seems to shape-shift with moods of the sea and sky. Walls of windows and large porches facing the Gulf of Mexico allow light to dance upon the home’s textured layers, soft wood tones, and natural stone elements. “The expansive view of the Gulf from every southfacing window will stop you in your tracks,” says Jonathan Hampel, Principal Architect of A BOHEME Design.

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1. “The home is positioned between two contrasting houses with much stronger color palettes, and the simplicity of detail, along with the use of white and soft contrast accents, really sets it apart,” Hampel says. 2. The kitchen is at the heart of this home. In fact, it anchors the homeowners’ favorite element: the large, open-concept dining and kitchen space. “A large marble-top island with a curved end is perfect for entertaining and gathering,” Hampel says.

3. The dining room’s custom built-in cabinetry is a standout element. “We wanted it to have the look of an armoire to display the homeowners’ impressive coral collection. We added mirrors to reflect light and Gulf views.”

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PHOTO NUMBER ONE: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED JACK GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY 2020

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4/1/20 6:11 PM

PHOTO NUMBER TWO: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED JACK GARDNER PHOTOGRAPHY 2020

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1. “The lime-washed brick gives the home a feeling of warmth and an undertone of history,” Hampel says. The sloping, curved lines of the fireplace mimic that of the home’s architectural style, channeled from the West Indies with Cape Dutch influences. 2. The master bedroom embraces simple details and the use of white with soft contrast accents in art, lighting, and texture. “The Venetian plaster walls have a soft, reflective quality, but the ceiling is our favorite element,” Hampel says. “The stained wood beams and painted wood ceiling add a coastal elegance.” 3. One of the homeowners’ requests was a small pool; they got their wish with this dipping pool that overlooks the ocean and includes a soothing fountain feature.

MAY 20

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In the bathroom, marble floors and Venetian plaster walls create the perfect backdrop for a freestanding tub, which is positioned for soaks with optimal sunset views. “Working with A BOHEME was a pleasant experience,” says Chris Himes, who co-owns the home with his wife, Erika. “From start to finish, their team helped guide us through the process of designing our dream beach home. Attention to every detail was amazing. We could not be more pleased with the end result.”

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MAY 20

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MODERN MINI

Nestled into groves of twisting live oak branches in the old Florida community of Inlet Beach, this tiny contemporary beach home is minimalist with a mid-century modern influence. With 800 square feet of airconditioned space and 330 square feet of outdoor living, Architect Darrell Russell of A BOHEME Design sought a low-maintenance, energy-efficient, hurricane-resistant bunker for this modern marvel he calls home.

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1. “I kept almost all of the natural vegetation that was on this property, only removing the minimum necessary to position the structures,” Russell says.

Minimalist in crisp white, this corner of the house offers entry into the outdoor living room and porch. 2. This entry gallery features a life-sized oil painting of a Turkish robe Russell found in an Istanbul art show at the Hagga Sofia. The space also features masks from his travels to Tanzania, a Barcelona-style couch, and an original 1950s Bertoia chair. 3. The outdoor living space has massive white curtains to create shade on blistering summer days. Ajar, the colorful striped front door offers a glimpse of Russell's painting of an old Tibetan woman purchased in Tibet. 4. “I love the refurbished 1950s St. Charles metal cabinetry [in the kitchen],” Russell says. “The 1969 Alexander Calder lithograph ‘Red Nose’ initiated the red-orange paint selection, and over the microwave are three raku heads by Swedish ceramic artist Johan Thunell that I found in a Barcelona gallery.” 5. A large oil painting by Memphis artist Nancy Chears anchors the master bedroom. “I commissioned the painting during the ’90s and it is, without doubt, my favorite piece of art,” Russell says.

MAY 20

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THIS IS ALABAMA I S S U P P O R T E D BY:

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4/2/20 8:53 AM

Join our movement to celebrate Alabama’s best destinations, natural wonders, food, culture, innovations, interesting people and more.

Alabama is an incredible place to live and work. Help us spread the word and share the good right here in our home state by following This is Alabama on Facebook and Instagram. Share the videos that make you laugh and stories that inspire you.

Follow This is Alabama on

NONPROFIT PARTNER

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4/2/20 8:53 AM

a

way

life of

Meet the man who connected some of Florida’s most idyllic beach towns and introduced them to the nation with the 30A lifestyle brand.

BY TARA MASSOULEH MCCAY

Mike Ragsdale’s schedule is wide open.

I’ve been emailing back and forth with the entrepreneur and founder of the popular 30A lifestyle brand for the past month, coordinating an interview in his neck of the woods: Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. I give a six-week timeframe, hoping to squeeze into what I’m sure is a busy schedule for him. Mike responds almost immediately with two dates he isn’t available and an invitation to stay in his home when I visit.

Three weeks later, I’m headed to the Gulf Coast, a million 60

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questions swirling in my mind about the viral blue-andyellow 30A sticker and the man behind it. I’m just past Andalusia when I receive a text from Mike—he’s wondering if I need any recommendations for lunch before our 2 p.m. meeting. Though I’m interviewing a local celebrity (like a police chief or unofficial mayor, everyone in the 30A community knows Mike), it seems I’m the one constantly on the receiving end of his unassuming hospitality.

MAY 20

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PHOTO BY JAKE MEYER

Highway 98 is the major connector between all of the Gulf Coast’s beaches, running east from Fort Walton through Destin and Santa Rosa, past 30A’s many beach towns, and eventually all the way to Panama City Beach.

County Road 30A feeds off the major highway, running nearer to the shore and connecting idyllic beach towns like Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, WaterColor, and Grayton.

It’s the alternate route, the slow road.

Mike doesn’t live on 30A, his home instead is located on the other side of Highway 98.

It’s bayfront instead of beachfront, further removed from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots. Mike moved to the area from Birmingham in 2006—before he started blogging about his new life on the beach; before that blog became a nationally renowned lifestyle brand; before there even was a name for the collection of beach towns he dubbed 30A; and long before he realized how much he’d come to cherish the privacy and respite that his secluded location would bring.

I pull into his long driveway and find myself staring at a home that for all intents and purposes looks like a gray, tiled rectangle on stilts. It’s a chic, ultra-modern rectangle, but a rectangle, nonetheless. I can just make out the glisten of the Choctawhatchee Bay in the space between the home’s supports and bottom of the house.

I’m barely up the home’s steps before Mike swings open his front door, a tiny white Maltese in his arms, another barking—more like chirping—cheerfully from the ground. I’m welcomed into a stunning open-concept living space that’s stylishly but simply appointed. The real showstopper, though, is the striking view of the bay that runs uninterrupted across the entire length of the back wall and spans from floor to ceiling.

Mike introduces me to his wife Angela and his two pups, Ernie and Cosmo, before we sit down to talk. Barefooted in khaki shorts and a thin Beach Happy T-shirt from his own 30A apparel line, the 51-year-old is dressed exactly how you’d expect someone who built a multimillion-dollar company around beach living to dress. A true surfer dude with shoulder-length dirty blonde and gray-speckled hair, day-old stubble, and a hint of sunburn peeking out from his collar, Mike has an easy smile and that palpable-but-hard-to-describe look common among those who live by the water.

Weathered and worn by the waves, but better for it. Marked and mellowed by the sun, but lighter for it. He’s the embodiment of the 30A

brand that promotes laid-back beach living.

Even his car, Truman, a sand-colored British military Defender fits the vibe. Only his rapt, piercing blue eyes betray that he has anything other than paddle boarding and dolphin watching on his mind.

Mike, like his schedule, is an open book. But that openness is no accident or matter of happenstance. It was hard-earned and intentionally chosen after years of experience and misguided dreams. Nearly 15 years ago, Mike and his family made the jump from a big, landlocked house in Birmingham’s Greystone community

to a much smaller ’70s-style ranch on a bay in Florida. The move was a conscious decision to finally pursue the lifestyle he’d always envisioned for himself.

“I was that guy in the corporate office who thought of himself as a beach guy,” Mike says. “On casual Friday I would wear Tommy Bahama shirts. On weekends I would drink Corona and Red Stripe. It just never occurred to me I could move there.”

Now, instead of working a 9-to-5 from an office in a tall building overlooking a parking lot, he manages his business from the corner

Mike Ragsdale is the owner and founder of the 30A lifestyle brand.

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“My job is to give that person who just needs a beach break—and that person if they can’t physically be at the beach.”

–MIKE RAGSDALE, 30A OWNER/FOUNDER

Angela and Mike Ragsdale with Mike’s beach cruiser named Truman.

30A Company Timeline

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barstool in his kitchen, overlooking a sunrise on the bay. His schedule is flexible for meetings like ours, or for a nine-month trip around the world, like the one he took with his wife and four kids back in 2011.

“I’m spending every day out on our dock,” Mike says. “I’m outside every day—no shirt, no shoes. I’m loving life. I’m going fishing, I’m getting sun, I’m out on the beach, and I’m writing about it. This is my best life.”

It’s hard to imagine Mike anywhere except by the water, but it took him until he was almost 40 years old to get there. Born and raised in Cullman, Alabama, Mike’s father worked for a power company, so family vacations were typically limited to cities within a 3-hour radius. He didn’t even see the ocean until the seventh or eighth grade. In 11th grade, he attended a Jimmy Buffet concert at Oak Mountain Amphitheater, counting it as a formative experience in what would become a lifelong passion for the beach. “It really resonated with me,” he says. “I started fantasizing about the beach like so many people do. I started buying into the whole beach lifestyle.”

After graduating from The University of Alabama in the School of Communications, Mike assumed that what followed was a highpower job at a big ad agency. But after sending a slew of resumes to no avail, he instead took a summer job in Yellowstone National Park.

At the suggestion of a trusted college professor, he returned to Tuscaloosa to pursue a master’s degree in advertising and public relations. While earning his degree, Mike put his knowledge into practice by taking a plethora of freelance jobs in the communications realm, from writing and tabulating

2006

2007

2008

2009

Mike, Angela, and their four children move to the beach

Mike purchases 30A.com for $1,100; creates a one-page beach blog

First 30A stickers printed

30A shirts hit six local stores; 30A Facebook and mobile apps launch; 30A registered for Federal Trademark Protection

PHOTOS BY SEAN MURPHY

was me—to give them a break even

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surveys to designing newsletters and business cards. Unknowingly, he had begun his own consulting business that offered flexible hours and the type of freedom he always longed for but never realized he could have in a career.

With a newfound passion for his work, Mike took out a $5,000 small business loan to invest in his company. Among his first purchases was a Mac computer. The free AOL disc that came with it ended up becoming arguably the biggest defining factor of Mike’s life.

The year was 1994. The World Wide Web didn’t exist, but its beginnings were looming in the near future. While using the free 10 hours of dial-up internet on the AOL disc, Mike saw an ad from AOL calling for entrepreneurs to help define the future of the online world. The original ideas of these “infopreneurs” were to become the golden era of online. The job was perfect for Mike, ever the big-picture guy, with a mean creative streak.

He submitted an idea for a site called Hecklers Online. The pitch: Comedy has always been a one-way monologue. The internet is the perfect platform to turn it into a two-way street.

The site would consist of comedy submitted and voted on by users—interactive top 10s, contests, and the like. The basic format then could be replicated for other topics. It was user-generated content before the term existed.

A few months later, he was called to AOL’s corporate offices to pitch his idea. He, along with two friends and his brother, drove to Arlington, Virginia where they convinced executives of their wild idea—and their ability to make it a hit. They left with $150,000 in exchange for 20 percent of their company.

When Hecklers came out in 1995, it became

Mike spends much of his free time in the crystal-clear Gulf waters he lives around.

the most successful launch in AOL’s history.

From there, Mike’s life kicked into overdrive.

“We became the Saturday Night Live of the internet. Most people were doing content every month; we did it hourly. We did things very colorfully, with lots of pictures, and it was a little edgy. We ended up being in the middle of this renaissance. What we didn’t realize was we were laying the foundation for interactive content, audience-generated content, and social media.”

Over the next eight years, Hecklers spawned Antagonist, a site for video game enthusiasts, and Zealot, for the sci-fi and fantasy community.

The company went from a tiny start-up of three fresh-out-of-college kids to a leader in its industry with more than 70 employees. They moved their offices from downtown Tuscaloosa to an office park on Highway 280 in Birmingham. The had struck it big in the Internet Gold Rush and were reaping the rewards of helming a multimilliondollar company.

When the stock market crashed in 2000,

Hecklers initially wasn’t affected, but by 2002, advertisers were scarce, and the company folded. “We made enough money to feel good about where we ended up, but we were only in our late 20s at that point, and it was time to move onto something else.”

For Mike, that meant becoming the Chief Marketing Officer at Source Medical, a healthcare IT company. He spent a couple years there, during which the company grew from 20 employees to 450. Eventually he decided it was time to be his own boss again. Up next? Forays into the restaurant and fitness industries.

“I got into all kinds of things I didn’t have any business getting into, and I lost a lot of money,” he says. “You move to the biggest house in the fanciest neighborhood you can afford, get a fancy car, travel. It’s all great, until you have a few business failings and you’re laying people off and negotiating out of leases. Suddenly, I’m like I don’t even know what I’m doing anymore, and I don’t know how to get out.’”

2011

2014

2015

2016

2020

Mike meets JoAnn Ribaudo; they begin selling shirts from the 30A Gear truck

30A Beach Blonde Ale launches; 30A trademark attains “Irrefutable” status

First employee hired; stores and warehouse open; 30A Radio launches

30A launches recycled apparel line; “Beach Happy” brand is born

30A video series, Beach Happy magazine, and 30A canned cocktails launch

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Get Your Fix

For Mike, the move was a clean slate—a chance to decide what he really wanted to do, and to do it right. He started blogging about his new life at the beach as a way to get his creative juices flowing, in hopes of eventually writing a screenplay or book. Though the area at the time wasn’t known as 30A, he bought the URL 30A.com as a unifier for the collection of quaint beach communities that all are located along the county road. With every new post about the best place for a sunset cocktail or the best coves for dolphin spotting, the site’s viewership grew a little more. Eventually, the

owner of a local real estate company reached out to Mike about advertising on the site. Suddenly the $1,100 spent on a URL for a new hobby had turned into the first investment in a lucrative side hustle.

In 2008, Mike decided the next step was to come up with a logo. He had the idea for 30A to be spelled out with a sunshine as the “0”. He envisioned a bohemian-style sunshine, reminiscent of Widespread Panic or Red Bar to evoke the free-spirted, hippie vibe of older beach towns like Grayton Beach. He hired a professional to bring it to life.

Mike admits that when he first saw the logo design, a turquoise circle with a white “3” and “A” separated by a bright yellow sunshine illustration, he was disappointed. “I thought, ‘It looks like an 8-year-old did it,’ and before that thought crossed my lips, I realized that was the brilliance. It’s simplistic, it’s family, it’s wholesome, it’s ocean. It’s all of these things without being anything. It was so simple and so iconic that I knew it would work.”

Mike’s instincts were proven right. He started distributing stacks of stickers to the area’s local businesses, and soon he began spotting the iconic blue-and-yellow logo everywhere— on the backs of minivans, stuck to the sides of water bottles, on surf boards and strollers.

He’s even got a slideshow of all the far-fetched places the logo has been, including all seven continents, the tops of Mount Everest and Kilimanjaro, on the inside of a bride’s wedding dress as her something blue, and tattooed on

In addition to a thriving apparel line, 30A also partners with YOLO Boards for an exclusive paddle board.

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Products 30A Tervis 30A Beach Blonde Ale 30A Rosé Gose Beer 30A IPA 30A Coffee 30A YOLO Boards 30A Electric Bikes 30A Chardonnay 30A Red Blend 30A Malbec 30A Rosé Wine 30A Books

More 30A Radio 30A Recycled Apparel Official 30A Gear 30A Social Media 30A App 30A.com

someone’s back. Today, more than 2.5 million stickers have been distributed across the globe.

Next for 30A was a line of apparel that fit with the brand’s mission to evoke the feeling of being at the beach. For this, Mike brought on JoAnn Ribaudo, a professional with 35 years in the apparel business who is now 30A’s COO. The line includes shirts, tank tops, shorts, sweatpants, sweatshirts, hats, and more for men, women, and children. All pieces are made from recycled water bottles and they’re all made specifically for wear at the beach. “We wanted to create the ultimate beach shirt,” Mike says.

“I don’t like things around my neck, so the collars aren’t tight. They’re light and airy, and the designs are cool, so even if you don’t know where 30A is, it’s like Patagonia or North Face, you still want the shirt.” Today, there are 350 30A products sold online, at three 30A branded retail stores, and carried at 380 more stores nationwide. The clothes have kept 3.4 million plastic bottles from entering the ocean.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF 30A LIFEST YLE BRAND

Mike and Angela are sitting at the dinner table with their four children in the mid-2000s, engaging in one of their favorite pastimes— fantasizing about moving abroad. They’re mid-dream when their second oldest daughter, Kelsey, has a revelation. With more wisdom than her 12 years, she tells her parents to get a grip. “We’re never going to move, so just embrace it.” It’s a splash of water in the face to Mike. Challenged by his daughter’s jab and free of any business roots in Birmingham, he and Angela begin to really think about where they want to live.

“We wanted something beachy and we knew we didn’t want to go any colder, so we drew a latitude line and said we are going to go south of this but not international,” he says.

They’re almost set on Savannah, Georgia, when a friend suggests a house for sale on the bay in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. The rest is history.

Here are some of the ways you can experience 30A from the comfort of your own home.

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With so many avenues in which the brand could progress, Mike decided take on licensing as the brand’s major business model, similar to other aspirational lifestyle brands like Tommy Bahama, Life Is Good, or Salt Life.

“I knew from my failed businesses that I need to stay in my lane and stick to what I know. I know how to build online community.

I don’t know anything about restaurants, retail, or brewing beer, so I knew I needed to build the online audience and share compelling content with that audience, and then figure out what they’d enjoy.”

He partnered with Grayton Brewing Company to create the 30A Beach Blonde Ale, which became the brewery’s number one seller and is now distributed in 6,000 locations across seven states. Next came a second and third beer, an electric bike, a signature coffee blend, sunscreen, skincare products, and more.

Today, 30A also partners with real estate company Berkshire Hathaway, has a radio station, hosts five annual events including two races and two music-focused events, and has plenty more on the horizon.

“I love what I do, so I’m not in any rush to finish this chapter,” Mike says.

A number of years ago, Mike’s wearing a 30A hat at a local festival when a man stops him to ask if he works for 30A. Mike says “yes,” and the man proceeds to tell his life story. He was born and raised in Huntsville and had been working the same engineering job for 24 years.

He planned to retire after 30 years, but in his 24th year, his company told him his position was being cut, and he would have to move to Minneapolis to keep a job. He moved and spent the next six years absolutely miserable.

He tells Mike that every day he’d come home from work and watch videos on 30A.com of life at the beach. He says it helped him to hold on.

His wife, tears in her eyes, nods confirming the story. Finally, with a shy smile, he tells Mike that he’s finished his 30 years and now lives at the beach full time.

“It all crystalized to me in that moment that this is our audience,” Mike says. “That man was the personification of our target market. My job is to give that person who just needs a beach break—and that person was me—to give them a break even if they can’t physically be at the beach. Sometimes it’s through a beer, or a song on our radio station, or sometimes it’s the shirt they put on, or the dolphin video we post.”

30A offers four exclusive wines, including Chardonnay and Red Blend.

“What 30A is to me,” Mike says. “isn’t concerned with the five or seven days a year that you might be here. We’re concerned with the 360 days you can’t be here. People want that emotional transportation to that place they want to be but can’t be. What we do is create the content, the products, the services that keep people in touch with that happy feeling they get when they’re at the beach.”

We’re nearing the end of our interview when my eye is drawn to a point 100 yards into the bay where a flock of 20 to 30 birds are flying wildly over the water. Catching my line of sight, Mike swivels in his chair to see what I’m looking at and his eyes light up. “That’s a feeding frenzy!” he says, explaining that small fish are being pushed to the surface of the water by larger fish and then being picked off the top by birds. “The minute you throw something in [the water], you’ll be pulling in big fish. Man, that’s some real fishing!”

By this point, Mike’s jumped out of his seat for a better look. “This is the kind of stuff you see all day, everyday here,” he says.

We sit back down to wrap things up, but I can tell his attention has drifted. His mind is somewhere out there with the birds and the fish, and who could blame him? He uprooted his family for this, built a business around this, and lives life for exactly this.

Mike’s often heard from peers that everything he touches turns to gold. His failed businesses say otherwise. And so does Mike.

“People can detect authenticity. When I started my first companies, the reason I think they were successful was that I was passionate about sarcastic humor, passionate about video games, passionate about sci-fi and fantasy. And I’m passionate about the laid-back beach lifestyle.”

Mike moved to the beach to simplify. And 30A was uniquely qualified for exactly that.

Unlike other beach towns that are inundated with high-rise condos and cheesy tourist traps, the communities of 30A have a more tranquil appeal. “It’s Mayberry at the beach,” Mike says, referring to the idyllic fictional town on “The Andy Griffith Show.” “It’s a nostalgic return to life the way it should be lived, which is you don’t ride in your car, you play Frisbee, you walk everywhere, you play cornhole, you take your dog to the beach, you have a sunset cocktail, you paddle board. I think when people come here, they feel a sense of community they’ve been lacking in their own lives.”

30A gave Mike the fresh start, the community, and the lifestyle he was looking for; now he’s giving it all back to the world—one sticker, one shirt, one cup of coffee, one video at a time.

DETA ILS LEARN MORE AT 30A.COM.

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More than a dozen of the state’s most prominent writers and authorities on Alabama travel have contributed to this collection of memorable and exciting road trips through Sweet Home Alabama in this 156 page hardcover book.

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A trip to the Outer Banks embraces the

natural beauty of the area.

BY JULIA SAYERS GOKHALE

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PHOTO ON OPENER: COURTESY OF OUTER BANKS VISITORS BUREAU | THIS PAGE: PHOTO COURTESY OF SANDERLING RESORT

starting to get d a rk a nd I’m d riv i ng dow n a g ravel road i n a s oy b e a n field looking for bears. As the gravel transitions to dirt, and the sun sinks behind the horizon, I start to distrust my compact Nissan rental. The last thing I want is to be stuck in the middle of the Outer Banks’ Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge sans cell service and with no one around except the area’s wild black bears. I give it five more minutes, but unfortunately there is no sign of the bear that frequents these fields.

With the chill of the October air settling in, I head back to the warmth and comfort of my haven for the weekend, Sanderling Resort in Duck, North Carolina. The beachfront property is the only full-service resort in the Outer Banks. When I return late in the evening, the fire pits outside have been lit. I head up to my room, which overlooks both the ocean and the sound, and grab the s’mores kit that’s left in each guest’s room. Paired with a glass of red wine, I enjoy toasted marshmallows alongside the sounds of the crackling fire and crashing waves before turning in early—it had been a wild day.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF OUTER BANKS VISITORS BUREAU

The beaches in the Outer Banks are bordered by tall dunes.

Birdwatching at Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Hang gliding with Kitty Hawk Kites at Jockey’s Ridge State Park

PRIMED FOR ADVENTURE

the tallest active sand dune system in the eastern United States. Along the rolling sand hills, you’ll find people sandboarding, jumping off sandy cliff edges, flying kites, and hang gliding. A permit is required to fly your own hang glider, but if you want to try your hand at the sport, you can book yourself into Kitty Hawk Kites’ hang-gliding school, located inside the state park (and just south of where the Wright Brothers took their first flight).

A three-hour beginner’s lesson at Kitty Hawk Kites starts with ground school and then takes you out to the dunes, where you’ll put your learnings to the test.

Although you’ll be flying the hang glider yourself (using techniques to take off and land), instructors run alongside hollering instructions and tips. Instructor Wolfgang Gaidis’ genuine excitement for the sport is contagious. Even from up in the air or across the dunes, you can hear his enthusiastic shouts of “Yeah, baby!” to every student as they take off smoothly or stick the landing. After you complete a class, you’ll have recorded flights that count toward an official certification (if you’re looking to expand on your newfound skills).

The Outer Banks are barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, best known for their beaches, state parks, lighthouses, and history. Roanoke Island was England’s first settlement in the New World, and became infamously known as “The Lost Colony” when it and its inhabitants mysteriously disappeared.

The history and its mystery, still unsolved today, are portrayed in the “The Lost Colony” play, the second longest-running outdoor theater production in the United States. It’s performed at a waterfront venue on Roanoke Island each summer.

Due to the thrashing waves of the Atlantic and the treacherous coast, several ships wrecked off the Outer Banks’ shores. Today, the remains serve as popular diving sites. Pirate lore can be found throughout the islands, as many notorious plunderers trolled the area’s waters in their ships. It’s said that Ocracoke Island was a favorite of many pirates—including Calico Jack, Blackbeard, and Anne Bonny—because of its bustling port and ample hiding spots behind towering dunes.

Today, the dunes are hot spots for adrenaline junkies. Jockey’s Ridge State Park includes 427 acres of

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LIGHT THE WAY

The Outer Banks is known for its historic lighthouses. Due to its treacherous coast, the area has many lighthouses to guide ships to safety.

Here are the five lighthouses you can visit in the area:

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse This lighthouse on Hatteras Island is most recognizable due its black-and-white candy cane stripes. It’s the world’s tallest brick lighthouse at 208 feet tall, and its 20-nautical-mile light span protects one of the most dangerous stretches of the Outer Banks. More than 175,000 visitors come each year to climb the 1870 lighthouse.

Currituck Beach Lighthouse Located in Corolla, this red-brick lighthouse has been in operation since 1875.

The light in the 162-foot lighthouse can be seen from up to 18 nautical miles away and rotates in 20-second increments.

Bodie Island Lighthouse This black-and-white striped lighthouse in Nags Head still shines its beam 19 nautical miles offshore. Visitors can climb 214 steps to the top of the 156-foot lighthouse. After three attempts at building this lighthouse, it was finally completed in 1872.

Ocracoke Island Lighthouse Completed in 1823, the stark-white Ocracoke Island Lighthouse is North Carolina’s oldest lighthouse in operation (and the second oldest in the U.S.). Even though it’s just 65 feet tall, its light still can be seen 14 miles into the Pamlico Sound and Atlantic Ocean.

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse Not your typical lighthouse, this lighthouse on the Manteo waterfront is often overlooked due to its small stature.

Looking more like a cute coastal bungalow with its red shingled roof, white exterior, and black shutters, the lighthouse is located at the end of a 40-yard pier in the Roanoke Sound. It is a replica of the original 1877 lighthouse.

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF OUTER BANKS VISITORS BUREAU | FAR RIGHT PHOTO BY PAUL SWISHER JR.

A map of the Outer Banks’ many towns

A bear at Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

THE WILD UNKNOWN The Outer Banks is known for its natural beauty and the wild still found in lesser-developed parts of the islands (although you won’t find high-rise condos or overbuilding anywhere). It’s how I ended up looking for bears after a day of hang gliding, thanks to a tip from a local. The area has one of the largest concentrations of black bears in the Southeast, with the U.S. Department of the Interior estimating that there are about 300 in the Alligator River Refuge alone. They say it’s not uncommon to spot dozens of bears on a one-hour drive through the refuge; hopefully you’ll prove luckier than me. If you don’t feel comfortable driving through the preserve yourself, guided tram tours are offered throughout the summer.

Another wild animal that you’ll have a much easier time spotting is a wild horse of Corolla. The northernmost town of the Outer Banks, Corolla backs up to Currituck National Wildlife Refuge, home to the area’s large population of wild horses. Originally brought over by Spanish settlers more than 500 years ago, an estimated 100 wild Spanish mustangs now frolic freely among windy beaches, green marshes, and sloping dunes. Although the area is open to the public, the “highway” in Currituck actually is a

Wild horses run on the beach at Corolla.

stretch of beach (with speed limits!) that you’ll need an off-roading vehicle to traverse. The easiest way to explore the area is through an outfitter like Corolla Outback Adventures. They’ll be able to take you on a guided tour in an open-air, off-road vehicle—plus, the company gets private access to the Wild Horse Conservation Easement.

Paul Swisher Jr., one of the guides for Corolla Outback Adventures, knows all the best spots to find the horses, since he grew up in Corolla and his family has lived on the land for decades. On our tour, we located several brown, tan, and black mustangs grazing in marsh ponds, foraging for food under the canopy of trees, and enjoying the shade provided by the carports of the island’s beach homes. Paul, who has led wild horse tours for celebrities like Jeff Bridges and Taylor Swift, says that while the horses are now a protected species, there was an attempt to rid the area of them in the 1930s. A bounty of $25 was offered for every horse tail turned in as proof of death. Swisher’s father, who wanted to protect the horses, managed to get close enough to cut off the horses’ tails and collect his bounty, while leaving the horses largely unharmed.

Thankfully, the area now is a protected sanctuary and legislation is in place for the horses’ preservation.

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Manteo’s waterfront downtown

WHERE TO EAT Kimball’s Kitchen Across the street from Sanderling Resort, Kimball’s Kitchen is a AAA Four Diamond restaurant showcasing certified angus beef, freshly caught seafood, handmade pastas, and local oysters. With amazing views of the sound, be sure to ask for a table by the window. Start with the Carolina She Crab Soup before moving on to the main attraction. Every steak is served with red wine compound butter and your choice of sauce, from green peppercorn demi-glace, chimichurri, horseradish crème fraiche, bernaise, or Kimball’s steak sauce. Be sure to get a side of the Shaved Truffle Mac and Cheese—it’s worth the decadence. For dessert, try the crème brulee with smoked berries.

Lifesaving Station The Lifesaving Station at Sanderling Resort is open to the public daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Located in a restored 1899 lifesaving station, the restaurant is filled with maritime artifacts and historic memorabilia.

Breakfast entails signatures such as the Eggs Sanderling with poached eggs, Carolina crab, and a mustard sauce on an English muffin; and pecan waffles with maple butter. Dinner and lunch are based on casual Carolina coastal cuisine, and include favorites like mussels in bacon broth, grilled scallops, and fried chicken biscuits with goat cheese and pickled okra.

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Avenue Waterfront Grille This seafood restaurant in downtown Manteo overlooks Shallowbag Bay and the Manteo Harbor. Grab a spot on the patio and enjoy lighter lunch fare like Shrimp Avocado Dipping Salad (local shrimp with avocado, pico de gallo, and tortilla chips) and fish tacos with lime cream and chimichurri drizzle. For dinner, try Butter Broiled Crab Cakes with a grilled shrimp skewer over charred corn, or Shichimi Steak featuring Japanese pepperspiced filet medallions with mirin spiked demi-glace and charred bok choy.

Coastal Provisions Oyster Bar & Wine Bar Café This fun oyster bar/wine bar/seafood market in Southern Shores (near Duck) has a casual atmosphere with serious food. Sit at the bar and let the bartender guide you in wine recommendations. Order a sampler of baked oysters (combination of Oysters Rockefeller, Imperial, and Gratin), as well as the blue crab claws made barbecue style with garlic butter, white wine, Texas Pete, and Old Bay served with ciabatta bread. A favorite special is the spicy Asian fish bites.

Duck Donuts Be sure to grab breakfast one day at the famed Duck Donuts. This staple in Duck is known for its made-to-order donuts. You’ll order in one side of the shop, choosing your coating, topping, and drizzle, and then you can head to the other side to see them make your donut to order. It’s always hot and ready at Duck Donuts!

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Sanderling Resort is a full-service resort in Duck, North Carolina.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANDERLING RESORT

TIMED FOR RELAXATION For all the adventure the Outer Banks offers, it matches that equally with the relaxing characteristics of a classic beach town. With sprawling sandy beaches, quaint downtowns, and restaurants serving fresh seafood, there are plenty of opportunities to chill out.

If you’re staying at Sanderling Resort, you have the benefits of a full-service resort, meaning there are restaurants, amenities, a spa, and a concierge who can book activities for you. Large, light-and-bright guest rooms (offering king or two-queen options) are found in the resort’s inn and beach house buildings; home rentals sleeping 8–16 guests also are available through Sanderling. You can unwind in one of the resort’s two outdoor pools and hot tubs, or head to the spa to enjoy an indoor pool, as well as saunas and steam rooms. While at the newly renovated, 6,000-square-foot spa, sign up for a treatment like the Signature Facial or Soothing Sea Stone Massage.

Within walking distance of the spa is the Pine Island Sanctuary and Audubon Center with 2.5 miles of selfguided nature trails from which you can spot 170 bird species, seven amphibian species, 17 reptile species, 19 mammal species, and more than 350 plant species.

When you’re ready to venture away from the resort, head to the picturesque town of Manteo, one of 10 small towns that make up the Outer Banks.

This waterfront community on Roanoke Island was incorporated in 1899, a time when all waterfront business had two doors: one for those coming by boat, and another for those entering via the street.

Today, it’s a hub for shopping, dining, art, and county business (it’s the seat of government for Dare County).

Sanderling Resort also offers rental homes.

Charming streets lined with colonial architecture lead to the waterfront, where you can spot a fantastic replica of the Elizabeth II, the ship that brought the original colonists to Manteo.

After browsing the town’s many boutiques, stop into Outer Banks Distilling Company for happy hour and a tour. Owned by four friends who met while working at an area brewery, Outer Banks Distilling is the first legal distillery in the Outer Banks. The distillery is known for its many lines of what they call Kill Devil Rum. Lines include the flagships (pecan rum is a must try); the limited-edition Shipwreck Series aged in barrels; the Solspice Series featuring spiced rums based on the seasonal solstices; and the Angels’ Share rum. After the hour-long tour, belly up to the bar and order a Painkiller made with the distillery’s rum and homemade coconut cream.

If rum isn’t your thing, stop into Island Perk Coffee Shop, where you can get coffee and also try some free wine tastings from Scuppernong Vineyards. Got a sweet tooth? The Laughing Lollipop around the corner offers everything from sweet and sour candies to cotton candy and fudge. Stores worth stopping into include Charlotte’s (women’s clothing), Roanoke Marshes Trading Co, Sister’s Boutique & Gifts, and Downtown Books. Venture to the nearby Elizabethan Gardens or the North Carolina Aquarium for some history and education.

After a day of exploring, head back to Sanderling to catch a spectacular sunset over the Currituck Sound.

As you walk the resort’s gravel paths, look down at your feet—you’ll notice camouflaged ghost crabs of all sizes running around, a reminder that even in its most developed spots, the Outer Banks is still wild.

D E TA IL S PLAN YOUR TRIP AND FIND MORE INFORMATION AT OUTERBANKS.ORG.

MAY 20

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| Birmingham |

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Leo

TOP ATTORNEYS & LEGAL PROFILES 2020 BIRMINGHAM MAGAZINE CONDUCTED ITS eleventh annual

peer reviewed survey this winter. Nearly 4,000 local attorneys and affiliates registered with the Birmingham Bar Associations were polled for their nominations for the area’s top attorneys in over 30 practice areas. This year, we also added a new category for Legends, to recognize distinguished attorneys with decades of service to the profession and community. We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and relevancy of these results, and we congratulate this year’s Top Attorneys.

This section also includes legal profiles from local attorneys and firms.

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Mike Ermert

Leon Ashford

Bruce McKee

Don McKenna

Hughston Nichols

Bruce McKee

Ashley R. Peinhardt

Scott Powell

Top attorneys make a top team.

For 130 years, Hare Wynn has been helping individuals, families and small businesses fight for justice, and we couldn’t do this important work without a team of excellent lawyers leading the way. We are honored that our peers voted six of our lawyers as Top Attorneys this year.

Congratulations to our team members who were named Top Attorneys by Birmingham Magazine : Legend – Leon Ashford Appellate – Bruce McKee Mass Tort / Class Action – Don McKenna Personal Injury – Hughston Nichols Rising Star – Ashley R. Peinhardt Civil Litigation – Scott Powell

(855) 359-6555 | HWNN.COM

No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of the legal services performed by other lawyers.

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Congratulations Attorney Gerald Brooks Top Attorney 2020

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SPONSORED CONTENT SPECIAL PROMOTION

Attorney Gerald Brooks is an accomplished lawyer focused on results and determined to seek justice for his clients.

The Livingston, AL native, along with his colleague Chuck James, created the Serious Injury Law Group because they both were committed to making an impact on the communities they serve. Brooks has a proven track record that speaks for itself.

With a specialty in catastrophic and medical malpractice cases, he has successfully litigated and won many multi-million dollar settlements.

At a very young age, Brooks’ family instilled the values of respect, hard work, and fairness in him. He’s committed to using those values each day to help his clients. Brooks, a two time graduate of the University of Alabama, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business and received his J.D. in 2002. After working for an insurance defense firm, he realized that he desired to work on behalf of injured victims instead.

“I enjoyed the experience working on the defense side of the law, and that experience made me a better attorney. I don’t know if I’d be as good at what I do now.

The experience of seeing how the other side evaluates cases and the things that scare them the most has helped me.

You’re representing corporations, and your point of contact is an insurance adjuster who’s not concerned about anything but reports and evaluations that aren’t about right or wrong.” says Brooks.

Realizing he could make a difference, he decided to cross over to the plaintiff ’s side of the law. For three years, he worked at a Montgomery firm that specializes in that area until he and fellow attorney, Chuck

James, joined forces to create the firm of Brooks, Hubbard & James, now known as the Serious Injury Law Group.

you get a favorable outcome for a client, seeing their reaction, and knowing that you have positively affected their life.”

Focusing primarily on personal injury cases, Brooks has been very successful.

His dedication to his clients enabled him to secure significant wins on their behalf, like a medical malpractice jury verdict of $3.5 million, a jury verdict of $380,000 in a motor vehicle case, and many multi-million dollar settlements for his clients in trucking and medical malpractice cases. He’s a proven expert in litigating catastrophic and medical negligence claims. “The best part of all is when

In his spare time, Gerald is adamant about giving back to his community. In 2017, the firm launched its first Serious Injury Law Group Living History Essay Contest. Fifteen high-schoolers received $1,000 scholarships for essays written about living heroes in their communities.

He also enjoys traveling and spending time with his wife and daughter. He also is a huge fan of Alabama Crimson Tide football.

SERIOUS INJURY LAW GROUP

B i r m i n g h a m | Mont g om e r y | Mo bi l e | L ow n d e s C o u nt y

1-855-SERIOUS

www.seriouslawyers.com facebook.com/SeriousInjuryLawyers instagram.com/seriouslawyers No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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Congratulations to The Rose Law Firm for their eighth year in a row on the list of Top Family Law attorneys in Birmingham

W

Working through a family law issue can be extremely difficult for every member of the family. By having an experienced, full time, family law attorney representing you from the start, you give yourself the best chance of obtaining a favorable outcome. Led by a team of award-winning attorneys and one of the few certified family law specialists in the state, this firm is dedicated entirely to helping people resolve complex family law matters such as divorce, child custody, alimony, asset protection, and more. Forgoing a “jack of all trades, master of none approach,” each client is instead assisted by attorneys whose motto is literally, “family law isn’t just SOMETHING we do, it’s the only thing.”

They offer free virtual or in-person consultations where you can get honest answers to your questions and know your options for assistance.

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THE ROSE LAW FIRM Located in Birmingham’s Southside in The Historic Rose Building

811 20th Street South Birmingham Al, 35205

1-205-323-1124 www.rosefamilylaw.com

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Jennifer G. Rose On How Our Firm is Different A couple of things I feel sets our firm apart is our attention to our clients and our colcol laboration on cases. First, each client gets the benefit of having their attorney’s perper sonal cellphone number and we answer those calls and texts 24/7. We understand how stressful it is to need someone and not be able to reach them, so we go out of our way to be accessible. Secondly, I feel our collaborative approach to the law is an added benefit for our clients. Instead of only one full time family law attorney, as with many firms, our clients get the benefit of four passionate family law attorneys working together in concert to get them the best results. We don’t work our cases in a vacuum. Instead, we routinely bounce ideas off each other and hold regularly scheduled strategy sessions to discuss each case and brainstorm strategies to get the best outcomes. I feel this advantage shows up in the results we’re able to get for our clients and I’m very proud of that.

Katherine Haynes

Lindsay Ronilo

Sandra Koslin Remington

On Why I Love Family Law

On Our Role in Helping Children in Custody Battles

On Asset Protection

I have been fortunate enough to work at the Rose Law Firm since I started my first semester in law school, almost 10 years ago.

I have worked in all aspects of the firm and gained an abundance of knowledge through seeing the process from every conceivable angle. Through that process, it didn’t take me long to realize that helping families through what is often the most difficult time in their lives is where my passion truly lies.

I find such joy in being able to get to know my clients personally and helping them and their family transition through a difficult time to a new beginning. It’s satisfying knowing that I often help the family come to a happier conclusion to a difficult situation, especially when children are involved.

I feel that one of the most important things we do is help to guide parents towards what’s in their children’s best interest when going through a custody battle. Custody battles are some of the toughest and hardest fought aspects of cases that we see, especially when a child is at risk of harm from a parent or family member, or even when a child is having a hard time transitransi tioning through a divorce. As a mother, I consider it a blessing to be able to advise parents on steps they can take to help their children, or steps we can take through the courts all in order to protect children, address their wellbeing, and protect their best interests.

The divorce process can be unpredictable and can cause a great deal of anxiety due to the unknown. One of those unknowns is often, “where will I be financially at the end of this process?” The answer to this question, whether your estate is large OR small, often hinges on having an experienced attorney to assist you in protecting your financial future. Having previously represented clients in one of the wealthiest zip codes in the U.S.A., I not only gained valuable experience in protecting estates of all sizes, but I developed a passion for helping people preserve their standard of living.

Practice Areas:

FAMILY LAW | DIVORCE | PROPERTY DIVISION | CUSTODY

2020 No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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Birmingham’s Elite Personal Injury Law Firm

A personal injury can be devastating.

Injuries cause physical pain, emotional distress, and financial losses. Legal issues and insurance companies add to the stress. Dealing with all of these worries make personal injuries particularly upsetting for injured people and their families. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to another’s negligence, Collins Law, LLC can help.

Who We Are

Collins Law, LLC is an elite personal injury law firm founded by attorney April H. Collins. Attorney Collins is a graduate of Faulkner University’s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law where she received many accolades and served on the Editorial Board of the Law Review.

Before graduating law school,

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Attorney Collins worked at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Federal Defenders office, and the Alabama Supreme Court.

Collins Law was founded on the principle that every accident victim deserves to be heard and deserves compensation for all physical, emotional, and financial injuries. To achieve these goals, Attorney Collins has adopted a set of values to guide the practice. The team at Collins Law is committed to: • Providing the highest level of legal expertise and customer service for every client.

• Treating each of our clients with the highest level of dignity and respect.

• Operating our firm with absolute integrity and honesty - always.

• Showing our clients sincere empathy and concern during difficult times.

What We Do

At Collins Law, we specialize in getting results for our clients.

Our firm has represented clients in a wide range of personal injury matters.

We have helped clients who have been injured by vehicles such as automobiles, motorcycles, and tractor trailers. Our firm has extensive experience with injuries caused by a person’s or business’s failure to maintain their property in a safe manner.

We help those who slip and fall and suffer serious injuries. We

file wrongful death claims on behalf of families who have suffered the ultimate loss of a loved one due to another’s negligence.

Our firm also helps clients work through various issues that arise when dealing with insurance companies. Often, insurance companies deny valid claims or make inadequate settlement offers. Collins Law protects clients from insurance companies and fights to make sure that any settlement will be fair.

What Sets Us Apart

April Collins has been repeatedly recognized as one of Alabama’s most outstanding personal injury lawyers. The American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys (AIOPIA), an impartial attorney rating organization, named Attorney Collins as one of the 10 Best personal injury attorneys in Alabama.

Because the AIOPIA only honors attorneys who meet strict criteria and have impeccable client satisfaction ratings, the award reflects Attorney Collins’ legal knowledge as well as her unwavering commitment to her clients.

In addition to being recognized as one of the best 10 personal injury lawyers in Alabama, Attorney Collins’ peers have identified her as a rising star in the legal profession. She was recently selected as a 2020 Top Attorney by Birmingham Magazine. She is a recent

graduate of the Birmingham Bar’s Future Leaders Forum.

Moreover, the Alabama State Bar recently chose Attorney Collins to serve on its Leadership Forum – an honor bestowed on only 30 attorneys state-wide each year.

Though Attorney Collins has been acknowledged by her peers, her clients also appreciate her efforts. Her clients say: “April Collins is kind, professional, and 100 percent available when you need her. Our experience with her was top notch and I truly felt as though we bonded throughout. She cares and it shows.”

“April Collins was on top of my situation from the very first time I spoke with her. My major issue was turned into a ‘Problem Solved.’ I am amazed at the speed in which it was handled. Thank you!”

How We Can Help

At Collins Law, your rights matter. We will manage every aspect of your case from start to finish. If you or a loved one has been injured, our firm will work tirelessly to ensure that you are fairly compensated for your financial, physical, and emotional losses.

Collins Law, LLC 431 Lorna Square Birmingham, AL 35216 Phone: 205-588-1411 Phone: 256-274-0400 Website: www.acollinslaw.com

No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

A9547632-01

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Appellate Advocacy Civil & Complex Litigation Divorce Governmental & Regulatory Affairs Insurance Defense Labor & Employment Mediation Probate & Elder Law White Collar Criminal Defense & Criminal Defense

OUR LAWYERS DO A LOT OF GREAT THINGS. Fortunately, this is one we can disclose.

Congratulations to Stephen R. Arnold Augusta S. Dowd Lisha L. Graham Karen M. Hennecy H. Eli Lightner II Hope S. Marshall Sidney C. Summey J. Mark White for being named Birmingham Magazine’s “Top Attorneys”

Attorneys at Law 2025 Third Avenue North, Suite 500, Birmingham, Alabama 35203 205-323-1888 WhiteArnoldDowd.com No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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Congratulations Attorney Leroy Maxwell

SPECIAL PROMOTION

MAXWELL TILLMAN

The Maxwell Tillman Law Firm is a premier Birmingham personal injury law firm known statewide for providing outstanding legal advice and excellent representation. We focus on personal injury, auto accident, truck accident, motorcycle accident, wrongful death, social security disability, and mass torts throughout Alabama.

In addition, we are familiar with the deep roots of prejudice and injustice, and are passionate in advocating on behalf of individuals and groups who continue to experience discrimination and other civil rights violations. Our office is in Birmingham, Alabama, one of the birth places of the Civil Rights movement. We have a proven track record of obtaining a full range of remedies for our clients, including compensation, injunctive relief to undo the effects of civil rights violations on individuals and groups,and punitive damages to change the future behavior of defendants.

2326 2nd Avenue N. Birmingham, Alabama 35203 205-216-3304 www.mxlawfirm.com

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MAY 20

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Kirk Drennan, P.C.

www.kirkdrennanlaw.com

Kirk Drennan, PC., founded by Jessica Kirk Drennan in February 2011, is dedicated to representing clients in Divorce and Criminal Defense. The Divorce Group is led by Jessica Kirk Drennan and Jessie Hardy. Serving as an associate for the firm is Amanda Rucks Duncan.

Jessica has 25 years of experience in matrimonial and family law, an AV rating from Martindale Hubbell, is a NBTA Board Certified Advocate, the Immediate PastChair of the Alabama State Bar Family Law Section, a Fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, a Lifetime Fellow in the Birmingham Bar Foundation, and a member of the Leadership Birmingham Class of 2019 (the best class ever).

Jessie Hardy is licensed to practice in both Alabama and Florida, a Board Member for Pathways, and the Secretary for the Family Law Section, Alabama State Bar. Jessie was also recognized as one of the Stars of the Bar 2019 and was a participant in the Birmingham Bar Leadership Forum.

Jessie is very active in Birmingham’s Junior League and took a leadership role in Sex Trafficking Prevention over the past year.

Derek Drennan, who leads the Criminal Defense Group is AV rated and has 24 years of experience in criminal law including death penalty and white-collar crime defense.

Our firm’s attorneys have a vast degree of knowledge and experience. We provide personalized service managing the most complex and contentious disputes with the utmost discretion. Our attorneys understand the sensitive nature of their client’s difficult legal matters and are dedicated to maintaining the privacy of our diverse clientele. Our lawyers pride themselves on developing an effective legal strategy unique to the needs of each client.

We are strong so you don’t have to be. #KDPCSTRONG

THE FACE OF STRONG ADVOCACY Jessie Keating Hardy, Jessica Kirk Drennan, Derek Drennan No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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Kirk Drennan Law 500 Office Park Drive, Suite 100 Birmingham, AL 35223 (205) 803-3500 www.kirkdrennanlaw.com

MAY 20 A1847781-001013-PS

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Congratulations to

David Marsh - Top Attorney 2020

k d d s e m

n g d w y w a m

The founding partner of the Birmingham law firm Marsh, Rickard & Bryan, P.C., David is a fierce advocate for his clients in and out of the courtroom. He has won many multi-million dollar verdicts on behalf of his injured clients, more than most trial lawyers in Alabama.

He’s gotten plenty of awards and accolades for his work, too. But he’s not in it for the glory.

Marsh says, “This is about justice for our clients.

It’s not about me.” Since 1996, Marsh, Rickard & Bryan has represented clients in personal injury cases involving car and truck accidents, wrongful death, defective products and medical malpractice, as well as business disputes.

h r y e s n . r x

l s w r

Marsh, Rickard & Bryan 800 Shades Creek Parkway, Suite 600-D Birmingham, AL 35209

f e t h s r e f e l .

205-879-1981 mrblaw.com

No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

MAY 20

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In the heart of Downtown Birmingham is where you are likely to spot Attorney Gloria Sellers, as she is walking into her office or grabbing a coffee before beginning her workwork day at Sellers Law Group, LLC. Sellers Law group, LLC, managed by Attorney Sellers, is the go-to law �rm for Criminal Defense and Personal Injury incidents, which includes auto accidents, trucking accidents, plus more.

Attorney Sellers moved to Birmingham, AL in 2013, after graduating from the University of South Alabama and receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with a focus in Criminal Justice. After months of tentatively looking for work in the legal �eld, she landed an opportunity at a local law �rm where she worked as a legal assistant. She maintained this position throughthrough out law school until she graduated in May 2018.

Attorney Sellers is no stranger to hard work and dedication as she successfully passed the July 2018 Alabama State Bar �xam on her �rst attempt. Since this accomplishment, she has been known to be vocal about protecting the rights of her clients, in and out of the courtroom.

In 2019, she was recognized as Birmingham Business Journal’s Rising Star in Law and as a recipient of the National Black Trial Lawyers Top 40 under 40. While her accolades are commendable, Attorney Sellers feels that her biggest accomplishment is being the �rst lawyer and business owner in her family. At the tender age of 12, she knew she wanted to be a lawyer and through what she say is trial and error mixed with grace, her dream has manifested.

When she’s not working hard defending and protecting the rights of her clients, you can �nd her writing poetry, listening to a variety of music, or watching a comedic movie/stand-up.

420 20th St N, Ste 2200 Birmingham, AL 35201

205-598-8869

SellersLawGroup.com “No representation is made that the quality of the legal services services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services services performed by other lawyers.”

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MAY 20

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

Recognition.

WELL-DESERVED.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Adam W. Pittman, Nina Towle Herring, Elizabeth E. Chambers, Ernest Cory, Jon C. Conlin, Douglas A. Dellaccio, J. Curt Tanner, R. Andrew Jones

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE EIGHT CORY WATSON ATTORNEYS RECOGNIZED AS

Top Attorneys BY BIRMINGHAM MAGAZINE.

These leading lawyers are chosen for their high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement, and we are proud to have them as a part of our team.

On behalf of our thousands of clients nationwide, each of us at Cory Watson Attorneys thanks this talented group for their dedication to our firm, clients, and community.

YOU DESERVE THE Best. NEVER Settle FOR LESS.

PERSONAL INJURY • PRODUCT LIABILITY • CLASS ACTION ASBESTOS • BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION DANGEROUS PHARMACEUTICALS • DEFECTIVE MEDICAL DEVICES ENVIRONMENTAL/TOXIC TORTS

2131 MAGNOLIA AVENUE SOUTH, BIRMINGHAM, AL ABAMA 35205

•

205 -328 -2200

•

CORY WATSON.COM

* No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO ELLISE WASHINGTON, TOP ATTORNEY 2020!

EMW LAW, LLC, is a boutique law firm based in Birmingham, Alabama, that services the entire state of Alabama in Business, Intellectual Property, Personal Injury, Debt Relief, Estate Planning, and Criminal Defense matters. As Principal Attorney of the firm, Ellise has accumulated a track record of effective leadership and strategic thinking as an Attorney who represents a broad range of clients.

She is active in a number of bar associations in which she holds a number of leadership positions.

She is also an Adjunct Professor at Jefferson State Community College. During her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, brunch, planning events, and exploring different cities.

EMW Law, LLC 413 16th St. North Birmingham, Alabama 35203 205-938-4369 emwlawllc.com Disclaimer: No representation is made that the quality of legal service to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

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Congratulations

HEATHER FANN 5 Points Law Group is proud that Heather Fann has once again been selected as a Top Attorney for Family Law. Heather’s family law practice centers around the �rm belief that all families are created equal, and her practice seeks to achieve equal treatment for litigants and their children regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religion, gender/gender identity, or sexual orientation. Heather and her associate, Emily McClendon, seek s to provide healthy solutions for clients in divorce (custody, support, property division), post-divorce (modi�cation and/or enforcement), or family court (paternity, dependency, abuse) matters wherever possible. The team utilizes modern methods such as the use of mental health professionals such as Parenting Coordinators or collaborative law to problem-solve complex situations, and is prepared to otherwise mediate or litigate wherever that may be necessary.

205.263.0743 | heather@5pointslaw.com | www.5pointslaw.com

Maridi is honored to be included in Birmingham Magazine’s Top Attorneys for 2020.

She congratulates her fellow list mates on this honor.

!

Maridi Huggins Law, LLC is a firm that handles personal injury matters across the State of Alabama. Bringing the unique experience of having practiced as a defense attorney for a number of years, Maridi now enjoys representing plaintiffs and fighting for her clients’ rights in various types of cases, including auto accidents, trucking accidents and slip-and-falls. Whether the case is large or small, Maridi is dedicated to getting results for her clients in the form of financial compensation.

d

No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

A9544239-01

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Bill Athanas, Partner at Waller is proud to be recognized by Birmingham Magazine

TOP ATTORNEY

as a

Being a leading law firm in finance starts

Driving business, practicing law.

RECOGNIZING BILL IN WHITE COLLAR DEFENSE

wallerlaw.com

No represent ation is made that the qualit y of the legal ser vices to b e p e r fo r m e d i s g reate r th a n th e q u a l it y of le ga l s e r v i ce s p e r fo r m e d by oth e r l aw ye r s . Co nt ac t : B i l l Ath a n a s 205 -226 -5703.

Congratulations to Top Attorney 2020,

ADRIENNE MOFFETT POWELL

As a Birmingham native, Adrienne Moffett Powell formed A P Law �f�ce on a foundation built with compassion and integrity. Attorney Powell earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Montevallo and Juris Doctorate from Miles Law School. Even while running an ever-growing solo practice, Attorney Powell continues to be an active member of the Birmingham Bar Association, Bessemer Bar Association, Alabama Lawyers Association and the Junior League of Birmingham.

A P Law �f�ce handles family law matters including divorce, child support, child custody and adoptions. Her legal reputation speaks for itself. She was voted 2017 10 Best Female Attorney in Alabama by the American Institute of Family Law Attorney’s and is now named Birmingham Magazine Top Attorney for 2020. Attorney Powell has rave reviews on both Avvo.com and Google.

She has made several television appearances on Fox 6 WBRC Law Call answering legal questions from the general public.

Attorney Powell knows that issues surrounding divorce, custody and even child support can be complicated and contentious. With a pleather of experience, Attorney Powell is exceptionally knowledgeable of the law. She also understands how emotional and stressful these matters can be for the families. She is passionate about her cases and is known to aggressively �ght for her clients.

Through good and bad times, Attorney Powell is the one you want on your team.

AP Law Office Historical Age Herald Building 2107 5th Avenue North, Suite 301A Birmingham, Alabama 35203

(205) 332-3710 Aplawoffice.net

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Innovative. Dedicated. Experienced.

Parnell Thompson congratulates K. Mark Parnell and Mary H. Thompson for selection by Birmingham Magazine’s 2020 Top Attorneys for Civil Litigation and Labor and Employment Law. Mark Parnell and Mary Thompson have decades of experience, representing local government entities and municipalities, businesses, and non-profits, and represent clients throughout the State of Alabama.

Clients have trusted us to offer creative solutions, deliver insightful advice and vigorously defend and represent their interests. We provide outstanding results that meet or exceed our client’s needs and expectations to be successful in their goals and endeavors.

PARNELL THOMPSON, LLC

Parnell Thompson combines the best of large firm attributes in a small firm client-focused setting. We believe that good advice begins with being good listeners. Our commitment to excellence means that we take the time to learn our client’s business or industry. This commitment, combined with our forward-thinking approach to problem solving allows us to provide insightful advice and devise individualized strategies to meet the distinct needs of each of our clients.

Parnell Thompson, LLC | 200 Office Park Drive Suite 328 Birmingham, Alabama 35223 205.582.2652 | www.ptlawllc.com A9562904-01

Jerome’s legal practice areas include Criminal Defense, Economic Development, Family Law, Immigration, and Wills and Estates. Prior to joining JD Walker and Associates, Jerome was an Assistant District Attorney in Jefferson and Montgomery County, Alabama. He then left to become a senior civil rights and criminal defense trial lawyer at Maxwell Tillman, one of Birmingham’s top criminal defense firms.

Jerome also worked as an Assistant Public Defender for the Jefferson County Public Defender’s Office handling cases ranging from simple drug possession to Capital Murder.

Jerome has experience in both state and federal court. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and his law degree from The University of Alabama School of Law. Outside of work, Jerome enjoys watching college football, cooking, and spending time with friends and family.

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JEROME DEES

A1846209-001011-PS

4/2/20 12:23 PM

Congratulations Attorney Frances Ross Nolan!

POOJA CHAWLA

Recognized to the Super Lawyers Rising Star List in 2017, 2018 and 2019, Pooja Chawla is a solo practitioner with a passion for Family, Criminal, Civil and Probate matters. Ms. Chawla was recognized by B-Metro Magazine as one of Birmingham’s Top Women Attorneys for 2018 and 2019. Ms. Chawla was further selected for a special recognition by B-Metro as one of the 12 Stars of the Bar for 2019.

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Ms. Chawla is accepting new clients in the area of: • Child Support • Modification • Child Custody • DUI • Visitation • Criminal Defense and much more.

www.nolanbyers.com No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

POOJA CHAWLA, P.C. Age Herald Building 2107 5th Avenue North, Suite 400 Birmingham, AL 35203 Ph: 205-287-8361 Fax: 205-949-4413 lawoffice.pc@gmail.com

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“No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be preformed is greater than the quality of legal services preformed by other lawyers.”

Going above and beyond in Birmingham.

Jones Walker LLP congratulates our partner Daniel J. Martin on being named to Birmingham Magazine’s “Top Attorneys in Birmingham 2020” list for his efforts in White Collar Defense.

congratulates

A. DAVID FAWAL ON BEING NAMED ONE OF BIRMINGHAM’S TOP ATTORNEYS! BUTLERSNOW.COM

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William W. Horton Office Head 205.244.5200

Suite 1100 | 420 20th St N Birmingham, AL 35203 joneswalker.com

ALABAMA | ARIZONA | DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA | FLORIDA GEORGIA | LOUISIANA | MISSISSIPPI | NEW YORK | TEXAS Attorney Advertising. No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other attorneys.

4/2/20 12:23 PM

SPECIAL PROMOTION

DeGaris Wright McCall congratulates DeGaris Wright McCall congratulates Annesley H. DeGaris and Karen Annesley H. DeGaris and Karen Lawrence Puccioforfor their selection by Lawrence Puccio selection by Birmingham Magazine Top Birmingham Magazine for as the 2020 2020 Top Attorneys for Tort/Class Action Attorneys forMass Mass Tort/Class Actions.

Law.

The �rm is nationally recognized DeGaris Wrighttort McCall is a nationally for our mass practice.

DeGaris recognized mass tort law firm. We get Wright McCall obtains justice for our results for our clients throughout clients inand Alabama throughout Alabama all over and the country.

Our the country.

Our experienced attorneys have a vast degree of attorneys a provenastrack record knowledge have and experience, well as an excellent track record getting results. and understand thatof clients are the Our clients arepriority. our number one priority. number one When you face We aim to provide superior service and a personal injury crisis, you need outstanding communication from start to compassionate and determined finish of every single opportunity we have representation.

Atjustice DeGaris Wright to be a champion for for our McCall, weare arehere committed tono clients. We to help you, matter howthis big or small case may providing type ofyour representation. be. �ght Our experienced have not We to obtain attorneys justice for injured lost sight of ourproviding core purpose: advocating clients while them with for injury victims. the personal attention they deserve.

DeGaris Wright McCall

Two North 20th Street, Suite 1030 Birmingham, Alabama 35203 www.dwmlawyers.com

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No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other

SPECIAL PROMOTION

LEGAL DIRECTORY 2020 APPELLATE

CIVIL LITIAGATION Douglas A. Dellaccio, Jr.

COMMERICAL REAL ESTATE

CONSUMER

Ed Haden Jason B. Tompkins

David Fawal

F. Gerald Burnett

Rhonda Hood

David Fawal

Crawford S. McGivaren, Jr.

Vince Schilleci

John Watts

Diane Babb Maughan

George L. Morris, IV

Jesse Evans

Cason M. Kirby

Hannah Hooks Stokes

Richard Theibert

Bruce McKee

Elizabeth Chambers

Matthew D Wright

Scott Powell

COMMUNICATIONS

Leroy Maxwell Jr

Anthony C. Willoughby

Joe Leavens

Kimberly W. Geisler

Todd Carlisle

J. Russell Campbell

Augusta Dowd

Hannah H Stokes

CIVIL RIGHTS

Darrell Cartwright

BANKING Carolyn L. Duncan

BANKRUPTCY Jeremy Retherford Daniel D. Sparks Steve Altman Charles Denaburg Greg Biddle Ruby Davis

Allan Armstrong

CORPORATE & FINANCIAL Herbert H. West Darrell L. Cartwright

CRIMINAL DEFENSE Derek Drennan Leroy Maxwell

Alan Lasseter

Eli Lightner

Jon Goldfarb

CONSTRUCTION

Sidney Jackson

Brett Bloomston

Chuck Burkhart

Hope Marshall

COLLECTIONS

R. Carlton Smyly

Zach Peagler, Esq.

Travis Keith

Jerome Dees

Keith Nadler

Gloria Sellera

Rodney Nolen Matt Wright MAY 20

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

LEGAL DIRECTORY 2020 CYBERSECURITY

HEALTHCARE

Brian Clark

REAL ESTATE

Brandon Robinson

G. Thomas Sullivan

Diandra Debrosse-Zimmermann

F. Gerald Burnett

Vince J. Schilleci III

James F. Henry

Greg Cook

Vincent J. Schilleci III

Eric Martin Scott

Susan Dominick Doughton

Karen Puccio

Jesse Evans

Lenora Pate

Wade Richardson

Richard Theibert

Melanie Bradford

IMMIGRATION

MEDIATION

Judy B. Shepura

Matthew Penfield

Sammye O. Kok

RISING STAR

Jennifer Taylor

J.D. Walker, Esq.

Jon Lewis

Cason Kirby

Mike Walls

Hannah Stokes

Glenn Waldrop

Christen Butler

ELDER

Karen Hennecy

INSURANCE DEFENSE

Matthew D. Wright

EMPLOYMENT

David Fawal

Michael E. Turner

Jason W. Bobo

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

Lance Willis Parmer

Hannah H. Stokes

Herbert H. West, Jr.

Susan Nettles Han

Lisha Graham

David Drum

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

PERSONAL INJURY

Jennifer S. Taylor

Diane Babb Maughan

Curt Tanner

Jeremy Schatz

Brown Katrina

Douglas A. Dellacio, Jr.

Matthew D Wright

Ellise Washington

Jon C. Conlin

Joshua Thompson

Kirby Farris

Leirin Sides

Brett Hollett

Taylor Bartlett

Carter H. Dukes Jon Goldfarb Sidney Jackson

ENERGY + ENVIRONMENTAL

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT LAW

Jon C. Conlin Nina Herring

Daniel Leverton Meredith K Maitrejean Ashley R. Peinhardt Maradi Huggins

Terrell McCants

Meredith K Maitrejean

Donald M. Harrison, III

Hughston Nichols

ENTERTAINMENT

Jeff Starling

Erik Heninger

Russ Campbell

Michael E. Turner

Kimberly M. Perkins

Katrina Brown

Michael Thompson

Maridi Huggins

Susan Nettles Han

David Marsh

TRUST / ESTATE

Kyle Smith

Spenser Templeton

Amy Adams

Allan Armstrong

Leroy Maxwell

Nancy W. Ball

Dawn S. Evans

Matthew D Wright

Greg Hyde

Mary H Thompson

April Collins

Richard G. Burton

Matthew Penfield

Alexander Shunnarah

Jennifer Taylor

Sidney Jackson

Gerald Brooks

Matthew D Wright

Michael Parrish

Jennifer McInerney

John Sccott

ERISA Steven A. Benefield Anthony C. Willoughby Grace R. Murphy

FAMILY Heather Fann Denise Pomeroy

LEGEND

Christen D. Butler

Percy Badham

Katherine Haynes

Crawford S. McGivaren, Jr.

Jennifer G. Rose Steve Arnold Adrienne Powell Anna Hart Anne Durward CeCe Freeman Frances Ross Nolan Heather Fann Honora M Gathings

Ken Riley

Roy J. Crawford Darrell Cartwright William J. Bryant

WHITE COLLAR DEFENSE Brandon Essig

Richard E. Smith

PROBATE

Bill Athanas

Ernest Cory

Nancy W. Ball

Augusta Dowd

Brian T. Williams

Darrell Cartwright

Mark White

Kirby Farris

Rachael Dollins

Daniel Martin

Henry Frohsin

Kay O. Wilburn

Leon Ashford

Ashley Neese

Mason Davis

Brian T. Williams

Mark White

Liz Young

Shane Smith

MASS TORT / CLASS ACTION

Wendell Sheffield

Andy Jones

Pooja Chawla

Glenda Cochran

TAX

Adam W. Pittman Annesley H. DeGaris Calle Mendenhall

Jennifer S. Taylor Sandy Mullins Matthew D Wright Sidney Summey Christopher S. Hamer Drew Ellis

WORKERS COMP Karen Berhow Larry King Stevan Goozee Brian Spellen Bernard D. Nomberg Jim Patton Will Hassinger Pooja Chawla Sean C. Pierce

Don McKenna 94

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MAY 20

4/2/20 12:23 PM

• QUIZ

Find Your Beach

ST A

Whether you’re into fun in the sun or relaxing near the waves, take this quiz to find out where to go for your next beach vacation.

RT

HE

RE

Do you have kids?

NO

YES

What is your ideal beach day?

RELAX

FRIED SHRIMP

PLAY

What is your ideal beach day?

PLAY

What’s your beverage of choice?

RELAX

What’s your favorite beach meal?

What’s your activity of choice?

CEVICHE

Florida or Alabama?

BUILD A SANDCASTLE FLORIDA PARASAIL

Where would you rather stay?

BUSHWACKER COCKTAIL

ALABAMA

CONDO

HOUSE

GULF SHORES

DESTIN

30A

MAY 20

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4/2/20 12:13 PM

• POSTSCRIPT

The Sea is Dangerous and Terrible, and Still It Calls

The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible, but they have never found these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore.

–Vincent Van Gogh I took my children to the sea, and worried they would turn too red in the sun.

I took my children to the beach, and rubbed their faces with goo so the harmful rays could not hurt them. They screwed up their faces in contempt, and rubbed the goo away with little hands covered in sand.

“Stop it,” they said, and rushed headlong into waves that knocked them f lat. They squealed with joy, and rushed to do it again and again and again.

I warned them to be careful, afraid they would venture too far beyond the sandbar, as I had done at their age. And years later when I knew better.

I watched a friend float away on a current leading back to deep water so far I could barely make out his cries for help. I watched friends and strangers dive into the surf and rush to him, joining hands to drag my friend back to the safety of the shore.

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I watched his wife laugh and cry at the same time when they reached the sand.

I have felt ocean waves become part of my physiology. I’ve been rendered senseless and sniveling by their very movement. I have prayed for nothing more than the solidity of land, and I have seen strong men beg for the same.

I’ve watched drunks claim the beach as their own on a fiery Thursday night, and fishermen reclaim it before the sun rose again on Friday morning. I have seen the sea provide, and I’ve seen the sea consume.

I have watched my own blood poor into the sand. I’ve seen a sibling stumble into a stingray, children wander into a school of jellyfish with shrieks like animals. I’ve seen hurricanes and waterspouts, shipwrecks and wounds, and the kind of dangers the sea has always held for man, and I am but a visitor.

But still it draws us, like Van Gogh said. The sea is dangerous. The storm is terrible. And yet we cannot stay away. For she draws us to her shores like music and adventure, like she has always done. And we go, eagerly, because the smell of the salt is like smelling salts that wake

us from the stupor of our routine.

Give us the beach, if only for a moment.

Give us the sea, so we might feel alive.

Van Gogh, I suppose, was not always the most rational of figures. He cut his own ear off, after all, and died after shooting himself in the chest. But he saw beauty around him, and felt sadness, and saw both of those things in nature and in the sea.

The water holds its own magic, Jacques Cousteau said, and once it casts its spell, it “holds one in its net of wonder forever.”

I took my children to the sea, because I wanted them to know the magic, to taste the sun and smell the power, to fear it and love it, and above all else respect it.

You may find reasons to fear, but few are sufficient reasons to stay away.

John Archibald jarchibald@al.com

ILLUSTRATION BY J. D. CROWE

John marvels at the singular majesty of the sea.

MAY 20

4/2/20 9:41 AM

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