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In the South, food is more than just nourishment - it’s a way of life, a connection to our roots and a symbol of hospitality. This issue is dedicated to honoring those traditions, from cherished family recipes to the vibrant food and drink scene that continues to evolve in our community.
One of the highlights of this month’s edition is a special recipe that captures the essence of Southern cooking Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this dish will bring a taste of the South right to your table, filling your home with the comforting aromas.
We’re also excited to introduce you to a hidden gem in our town — a local wine and champagne store that is redefining how we pair our meals with the perfect drink. Whether you’re looking for a bottle to celebrate a special occasion or a new favorite to enjoy with dinner, this store has something for everyone. Their expert knowledge and carefully curated selections make them a must-visit destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
In this issue, we delve into the deep connections we share through food, and how these recipes are more than just instructions — they are memories, stories and a way to keep our loved ones close, even when they are no longer at the table.
Whether you’re cooking up a storm in the kitchen, discovering a new favorite wine or savoring a piece of family history, may this October be filled with the warmth and joy that come from sharing good food with those you love.
Warmest regards,
MISSY GURLEY, PUBLISHER
October 2024
PUBLISHER
Missy Gurley | missy.gurley@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Wendy Sack | wendy.sack@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Lisa Jones - Lisa Jones Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1: Russell and Katie Brown visit Josh Manis (front) at HOME Re-Decór in City Harbor. 2: Katie Brown’s boys enjoy the wonderful weather - perfect for fishing with their grandfather. 3: P.J. and Missy Gurley with Jill Lane and Col. Derek Lane, celebrating Col. Lane’s retirement 4: Spinning outside of Three Pears - what a fun group! 5: Eloise, Dlisa and Sophia Bitterly at the new Bath & Body Works in north Cullman 6: Two of our favorites teaming up - Three Pears and Evolve Fitness!
7: Emily and Luke Bussman are enjoying this school year, especially recess! 8: Cindy Klopfer, Donna Richter and Anna Kusz at Huntsville Inspiration Home in the bedroom they decorated 9: Stop by and take a selfie with Cullman’s cutest couple! Share your Hay People selfie! 10: The Young Professionals panel - Jake Burkey, Jeremy Wootten and Jacy Hawkins 11: Enjoying Friday night lights with Paislei Whatley, Addy Sparks and Wakely Bush 12: We are cheering on all the football teams in Cullman County! 13: Fishing on Smith Lake is fun year-round! Ty Gurley is pictured with his catch.
Rattles & Rhymes is an exclusive boutique that offers upscale children's clothing and gifts. New inventory is added daily! Get your kiddos ready for fall with the latest, cutest styles. Rattles & Rhymes is located at 107 Fifth St. SE in Cullman. shoprattlesandrhymes.com
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This mother-and-daughter store specializes in Bohemian clothing and jewelry lines for women and young girls, as well as restored antique furniture. Let us know how we can help you find the next unique piece for your closet or your home! The store is located at 206 Third St. SE in Cullman. www.facebook.com/ gypsysoulantiquesandthings
Premier Plumbing has 20-plus years combined experience, and is a 24/7 plumbing service serving Cullman County and surrounding areas. Free estimates. 24/7 emergency services are available as well. Residential and commercial service with financing available.
Delivering an unforgettable spa experience to every guest, every time. When you walk in, leave that thing that has you weighed down at the door. You can decide then to pick it up and take it with you or just leave it behind. You just need some quiet time to process. Others just want a fun day with the ones you love most.
Our why is your why.
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The special atmosphere at Pasquale’s will continue for years under new owners, Steve and Mike Morgan. Steve and Mike recently purchased the restaurant from Phillip and Donna Nunnelly. Steve and Mike are committed to continuing the Pasquale’s tradition of great food and friendly service.
Pasquale’s Pizza & Pasta is a great place to meet and dine for entire families and large groups, including churches, businesses and sports teams. Pasquale’s also offers catering services.
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ARTICLE
BY MISSY GURLEY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABIGAIL NEAL AND MISSY GURLEY
In the heart of Cullman, Alabama, where Southern traditions run deep and family ties are cherished, the kitchen is more than just a place to prepare meals. It’s a space where memories are made, recipes are passed down and the essence of Southern hospitality comes alive. For many, the most treasured items in the kitchen aren’t the newest gadgets or the sleekest appliances but the cookbooks and recipe cards lovingly handed down from grandmothers and mothers.
In Southern culture, cooking is an expression of love. Meals are prepared with care, using recipes that have been perfected over generations. These recipes tell stories - of family gatherings, Sunday dinners and special occasions. Whether it’s Granny’s secret for the perfect pecan pie or Meme’s method for making fried chicken just right, these culinary treasures are a link to our past and a gift to future generations. I keep their pictures in my kitchen.
One of the challenges of our modern, fast-paced world is finding ways to preserve these family heirlooms. Handwritten recipe cards, often smudged with flour and butter, can be fragile. Cookbooks, with their worn covers and dog-eared pages, might not withstand the test of time without a little care. I have many recipes and cookbooks passed down from my grandmothers and mother. Here are a few ideas to keep these culinary treasures safe for future generations:
1. Create a recipe archive: Consider digitizing your recipe cards and cookbooks. Scanning them not only preserves the originals, but also allows you to share them easily with family members. There are several apps and websites that make this process simple and convenient.
2. Frame and display: Why not turn those beloved recipes into art? Frame a favorite recipe card or a page from a cherished cookbook and hang it in your kitchen. It’s a beautiful way to honor the women who taught you the art of Southern cooking while adding a personal touch to your home.
3. Recipe bookshelf: Dedicate a special shelf in your kitchen to family cookbooks. Display them with pride, showing off their well-worn covers and stained pages. This not only makes them easy to access, but also serves as a daily reminder of the love and care that has gone into every meal.
4. Recipe box revival: Many of us remember our grandmothers keeping a small wooden box filled with recipe cards. Why not bring back this tradition? Invest in a quality recipe box, and make it a family project to write down your favorite recipes. Over time, this box will become a treasure trove of culinary wisdom.
In a town like Cullman, where community and family are at the heart of everything, passing down recipes is a way of sharing love. Whether you’re teaching your children how to make Abby’s famous biscuits or helping them understand the importance of fresh, local ingredients like those from Granny and Meme’s gardens, you’re keeping Southern traditions alive.
The Southern kitchen is more than just a place to cook - it’s where love is shared, memories are made and legacies are preserved. By taking the time to protect and display your cookbooks and recipe cards, you’re ensuring these precious pieces of history continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for generations to come.
Cherished recipes and cookbooks can also be displayed on wooden stands. You can find those and everything needed to complete your Southern kitchen at Mavens & Makers in Cullman.
"COOKING THEIR RECIPES IS LIKE HAVING A CONVERSATION WITH THEM, A WAY TO KEEP THEIR SPIRITS ALIVE AND HONOR THEIR MEMORIES."
Geneva Martin, my grandmother, in her kitchen and a homemade apron
HANK'S INCORPORATES FAVORITES FROM BROTHERS ON SMITH LAKE
“We get enjoyment out of seeing families and friends bonding over shareable items because it is very much so how my family and friends like to spend our quality time. Good food, good sports and good music and conversation. It’s great!”
If you haven’t been to (what was once) Rumors Deli lately, you’re in for a real treat. For starters, it’s now called Hank's Sports Bar & Rumors Deli (and has been for a while). It also has an expanded menu that you can’t find anywhere else. Such is the delight that is a true, locally owned eatery.
Owner Aaron Coombs shared, “Rumors Deli was born in a tiny spot in the Warehouse District of Cullman, Alabama. When the doors opened on that hot day in July of 2000, the Harris family never dreamed it would have grown to where it is now. They always believed there should be a place where a sandwich was not just a sandwich, but the best sandwich you would ever eat. They wanted to build a family business that would teach people about work ethic. Little did they know... Rumors Deli would be a name that spread far and wide. On March 1st of 2021, the torch was passed to the Coombs family.”
He added, “After the Coombs family took over, we operated as-is for one year, before remodeling and extending the menu and hours and adding a bar.”
Now, thanks to the generosity of Will Dowdy, Hank’s has incorporated recipes from Dowdy's former restaurant, Brothers on Smith Lake.
“We were super excited and happy to know that Will trusted us enough to pass these recipes on to us. He came in and trained us (me, (General Manager) Kendrick (Boudreaux) and the rest of our management staff) himself, and we have become good friends with him,” said Coombs. “His recipes were a staple for my family, as Brothers was our family’s favorite
place to go. It provided many good memories for family and friends. We still have family and friends that talk about the cheese sticks and many of Will’s other amazing recipes. Will is a great guy, and was an even better mentor during the training process.”
Coombs said his favorite recipe from Dowdy is by far the homemade cheese sticks.
“My favorite recipe is hands down the homemade cheese sticks,” he smiled. “After learning the process behind the cheese sticks, it made me appreciate them even more!”
And since we’re sliding headlong into autumn, I asked Coombs his idea of the perfect dish for fall.
“Honestly any of them are perfect for any time of year!” he said enthusiastically. “They are all good for sharing around the table and we’ve noticed that many families will come and order one of each and pass it around the table. We get enjoyment out of seeing families and friends bonding over shareable items because it is very much so how my family and friends like to spend our quality time. Good food, good sports and good music and conversation. It’s great!”
Hank’s Sports Bar & Rumors Deli also offers a variety of live, local entertainment and is active on social media. For the latest schedule and newest menu items, visit www.facebook.com/ rumorsdeli or www.instagram.com/rumorsdeli
Hank's is located at 601 Fourth St. SW in Cullman, very close to the new Flying Fifty Hotel. It's open Sunday-Tuesday from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and Wednesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY VINCENT DESNOES
This month, we chat with Vincent Desnoes, who, along with his wife Brooke Desnoes, owns the classic wine shop Gervais & Lulu in downtown Cullman.
CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE: Can you tell me how Gervais & Lulu came to be? And is there a special meaning behind the name?
VINCENT DESNOES: The shop is named after my father and my uncle. They worked and sold wine together for over 40 years in a very busy market street located in the Latin Quarter, the very heart of Paris. Wine and food have always been part of our family life, and by the age of 14, I was already helping the real Gervais and Lulu sell wine during school vacations. At the end of the 70s the Beaujolais nouveau had become extremely popular with the Parisians and I spent many cold Christmas vacations selling it outside the shop.
To answer your first question I will simply say that I felt that not using my knowledge of wine was a waste. I also knew that Cullman would quickly understand the difference between soulless industrial wines found in grocery stores and the natural wines carefully crafted on family estates that I select for my clients.
CCL: How does a specialty shop like this fit into a smaller community like Cullman?
VD: Cullman is growing right before our eyes, so the timing is perfect for a small specialty shop like mine. Coming from a large city and knowing what is happening in most of them, I foresee a bright future for smaller communities like Cullman. However, Cullman’s attractiveness will only last if small businesses are not smothered by large franchises. My shop is located in the historical district and being surrounded by independent friendly businesses such as restaurants, florists, antique stores and the oldest hardware store in town is a great advantage and I hope that more small businesses join us in the future. Small businesses are the heart and soul of a community.
CCL: What is something you would tell someone who is not well versed in wines and champagnes, but wants to choose one for a special occasion?
VD: Every time you open a bottle of wine is a special occasion. There is no reason to drink bad wine even during a casual evening, and a good bottle does not have to be expensive. I sell wonderful wines that people love starting at $17.
For someone celebrating a special occasion, the only advice I can give is to visit my shop. My role is to offer my clients a selection of wines they can enjoy without having to second guess what’s inside a bottle. If a bottle is on the shelves at Gervais & Lulu, it is because it has been tasted and approved. The people I source my wines from know how difficult I am, but they also respect my opinion. I did not learn the trade by taking a sommelier class over the internet. I learned on the ground from the winemakers themselves, the only people who truly know about wine.
CCL: What are your recommended selections for the fall season?
VD: Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy Chardonnays and Pinots from Burgundy. Older vintages will display rich nuances of reds and deep yellows that will bring the colors and the fragrances of the season in your glass.
CCL: Which pairs best with Halloween treats?
VD: Nothing pairs with Halloween treats, but a red Givry or a white Rully from Southern Burgundy will do very well with a spicy pumpkin pie covered with dark chocolate.
CCL: And Thanksgiving dinner?
VD: I am old-fashioned, and as far as I am concerned, a turkey needs a Pinot from Burgundy. Over the 25 years we lived in Paris, my wife Brooke became a true chef and always prepared beautiful and tasteful Thanksgiving dinners for our friends and guests. Monsieur Paul Garaudet’s gracefully aged Monthelies and Volnays were always on our table on those very special nights.
You can find Gervais & Lulu at 117 Fourth St. SE in downtown Cullman.
“If a bottle is on the shelves at Gervais & Lulu, it is because it has been tasted and approved. The people I source my wines from know how difficult I am, but they also respect my opinion. I did not learn the trade by taking a sommelier class over the internet. I learned on the ground from the winemakers themselves, the only people who truly know about wine.”
KARMA-tini
Pasquale’s Pizza & Pasta is serving up the most delicious drinks and food in Cullman. Around here, we LOVE this featured drink because it incorporates some of our favorite local coffee!
Stop by and visit Pasquale’s Pizza & Pasta and tell them we sent you.
ingredients:
• 1.5 oz. Karma’s Coffee House Cold Pressed Espresso
• 2 oz. Absolut Vanilia vanilla-flavored vodka
• .5 oz. Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur
• .75 oz. Baileys Original Irish Cream
• .5 oz. simple syrup
directions:
Step 1. Add all ingredients to a shaker tin and shake vigorously for 1 minute.
Step 2. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Step 3. Top with grated Terry’s Dark Chocolate Orange.
Have you tried a KARMA-tini?
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
SAVORY, WITH A LITTLE BIT OF SPICE
ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA LANN
What's better than a savory, and a little bit spicy, quiche on a crisp, fall morning or for an autumn brunch? This recipe was provided by Donna Lann, who, along with her husband Keith Lann, owns Guthrie's Chicken in north Cullman.
ingredients
• 6 eggs
• 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• 2 cans of chopped green chiles, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup Mexican cheese blend
• One deep dish pie crust
directions
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
2. Blend together eggs, sour cream, salt, pepper and cumin. If you use sour cream use a blender or food processor.
3. Cover bottom of the crust with cheese and green chiles.
4. Pour egg mixture over cheese and chiles.
5. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes then lower to 300 degrees and bake for 30-40 minutes until set.
6. Cool about 10-15 minutes and serve!
This quiche is great with soup or salad and wonderful reheated for breakfast or lunch! Enjoy it with a nice, hot cup of coffee or the beverage of your choice.
QUICHE VS. FRITTATA: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
According to MasterClass.com:
Frittatas and quiches are both baked dishes containing eggs, cream or whole milk, and a range of fillings that can include veggies, meat and cheese. But the two meals also have differences, including:
1. The crust: A quiche contains a crust, while a frittata does not.
2. The filling: A quiche is a custard tart, but a frittata contains less dairy.
3. The pan: A quiche bakes in a pan, whereas a frittata cooks in a cast-iron skillet.
"This quiche is great with soup or salad and wonderful reheated for breakfast or lunch!"
This hearty chicken noodle soup is the perfect comfort food that is packed with nutritious goodness. This pairs perfectly with homemade beer bread or a sourdough loaf.
INGREDIENTS:
• 8 cups chicken broth (add more if desired)
• Whole fryer chicken, cut in chunks or shredded
• 5 celery stalks, sliced
• 8 carrots, sliced
• ½ onion diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• ¼ cup half and half (optional)
• 1 package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
In a large stock pot, add 8 cups of chicken broth. Dice carrots, celery and onion and add to the broth. Bring to a boil, and reduce to medium heat until the vegetables are soft. In the meantime, skin and cube 1 whole fryer chicken and add to the stock pot. Next, add egg noodles (frozen Reames homemade egg noodles are my favorite) and let boil until noodles are cooked. Add butter, half and half, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer on low until ready to serve.
CONTINUED >
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
This classic tomato basil soup is easy and quick to make and is the perfect way to get the rustic, tangy and savory flavors of this italian dish.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or alternatively, 1 stick butter)
• ½ cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• DIRECTIONS:
Toss the butter or olive oil in the pan. Add onion, and saute until the onion is translucent and soft. Add minced garlic, and saute for 2 minutes. Next, add canned tomatoes and simmer. Transfer to a blender, and puree until smooth. Add the fresh basil and heavy cream. Transfer mixture back to the pan to thoroughly heat, and salt and pepper to taste. Top with fresh parmesan and chopped basil, and serve with toasted italian bread.
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ARTICLE BY WENDY SACK
Want to make a beautiful wreath to add to your home this holiday season? Check out this opportunity!
“An Evening with Josh, Holiday Edition” will be presented by HOME Re-Decor in City Harbor in Guntersville.
“The Kris Kringle of all things design cordially invites you to his workshop. Saddle up the reindeer and point Rudolph’s nose to HOME Re-Decor in City Harbor for a masterclass in wreath design that is guaranteed to ‘sleigh!’ Come enjoy all the tinsel and trimmings you’ve come to expect, from the oneof-a-kind creations, magical atmosphere, dear camaraderie, to the festive food and drink,” said HOME Re-Décor Owner Josh Manis. “Mark those calendars! We’re bringing Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!”
He continued, “This will be a festive evening where we will all design real-to-touch evergreen wreaths together, decking them out in the most fabulous ribbon and embellishing with glitzy ornaments and more. This evening will be topped off with a full catered meal by Big Mike’s Steakhouse.”
The event will take place Thursday, Oct. 17, from 6-8 p.m. at HOME Re-Decor in City Harbor, 2467 Paddle Wheel Dr., Guntersville, AL 35976.
“These real-to-touch wreaths are classic and high quality and can be used year after year with proper storage,” said Manis.
Tickets are $175 and include a full-course meal from Big Mike’s Steakhouse, a real-totouch cedar wreath, designer ribbons of your choice and festive accessories to embellish your wreath.
Kids are also welcome, Manis added, saying, “Home Re-Decor in City Harbor is thrilled to host Abby with ‘Happies by Abby’ for a fun-filled evening catered to our budding artists. This event will take place in conjunction with ‘An Evening with Josh’ and Abby will guide your child(ren) through their own creative process on canvas. Your little ones will enjoy their very own catered meal featuring a menu that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The purchase of a ticket to ‘An Evening with Josh’ is NOT required for your child to attend this event but why let your kiddos have all the ‘happies?’ Recommended for ages 7 and up.”
OCTOBER 3RD-5TH
Cullman Oktoberfest
Depot Park and Cullman Festhalle | 4:00 PM
Begins Thursday at 4 p.m. and ends Saturday at 11 p.m. This year's Oktoberfest promises lively music, cultural displays and delicious German cuisine, making it an event you won't want to miss! Highlights will include the Hofbräu Biergarten and Goat Island Biergarten, the best German food this side of Munich, fun contests and more! Get the full schedule at www.cullmanoktoberfestival.com.
OCTOBER 3RD-12TH
Cullman County Fair
Cullman County Fairgrounds | 5:00 PM
This family favorite has it all: exhibits, pageants, carnival food, rides and more! The opening ceremony will take place Thursday, Oct. 3, at 5 p.m. Get ticket info and see a full calendar of events at www.cullmanfair.org
OCTOBER 11TH
Vibes Fundaiser
Goat Island Brewing | 6:00 PM
Join us for a nostalgic fundraiser supporting Victoria's Hope! Embrace your favorite decade by donning your best thrifted outfit and groove to the tunes of the Overtones. Savor a delicious barbecue plate from Johnny's and sip on a cool drink from Goat Island. Don't miss our silent auction! Get tickets and more info at tinyurl.com/VictoriasHope
OCTOBER 26TH
Chillin-N-Grillin BBQ Fest
Vinemont Sports Complex | 10:00 AM
This yummy annual event will feature barbecue contests, kids' activities, a car and truck show, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors and more! Bring your family, friends and your appetite!
OCTOBER 26TH
Depot Park | 7:00 PM
Come out for a spooktacular time, Tunnel of Terror, vendors and trunk or treat. 3Sixty Jeep Club is teaming up with Paws Up Rescue, and all proceeds raised will benefit Paws Up. Accepting monetary donations, as well as dog toys, treats, blankets, beds, leashes and collars. No rawhide, please. You never know, you may meet your new family member!
OCTOBER 26TH
4th Annual Arab Downtown Fall Fest
Main Street in Arab | 3:00 PM
Be sure to wear your spooky or fun costumes. Enjoy food trucks, vendors, entertainment, music and, of course, the world famous costume contest! Get more information from the "What's Happening in Downtown Arab" page on Facebook.
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