Alabama has abundant natural beauty, and all over the state, new paved trail systems are inviting people to get outside for a walk, run or bike ride and take full advantage of our outdoor assets. In North Alabama, the Singing River Trail is currently in progress and will be the area’s longest trail/greenway, connecting Limestone, … Read More
When Emily Burwell was in college, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She beat it. But it was found during a routine mammogram. Prior to her mother’s illness, Emily’s family had no known history of breast cancer, so it wasn’t something the women in her family were particularly concerned about. After her mother’s cancer, … Read More
Fresh-picked strawberries are only with us for a short time each spring; get out and get some while the gettin’ is still good. Strawberry season is coming to Alabama, and for the winter-weary, its arrival is highly anticipated. The ruby gems are a sign that spring is here and in full swing, and they’re a … Read More
In 2008, a very healthy and active 48-year-old Beverly Helton, who up until the moment she detected a lump in her breast felt “just fine,” was diagnosed with stage III invasive breast cancer. She beat it. Then, in 2017, she was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer, and she’s beating that too. Through both journeys, … Read More
Plenty of people can draw or paint a likeness of another person. But when a portrait is more than an accurate depiction of someone’s physical appearance, when it captures and conveys not just how they look but who they are – that’s art. For Montgomery artist Elana Hagler, there’s a bit of science in it … Read More
Birmingham-based Ginger Lily Southern Teacakes’ creations are not your average cookie. With intricate designs, a unique brownie-like texture and a more subtle sweetness, the tea cakes (a specific type called springerle) are what baker Cherri Jones calls a “grown-up” cookie. They’re also the result of cross-cultural pollination, based on European traditions but stirring in some … Read More
Alabama is a state rife with rivers. Our vast collection of rivers, creeks, streams, bayous and lakes contributes to our economy, is foundational to our cultural heritage and creates a valuable recreational resource. Anniston jeweler Fred Couch already knew and loved the state’s rivers; the avid paddler had spent plenty of time traversing them. But … Read More
A quick glance inside MGM Greens’ rectangle shipping containers brings to mind a disco, thanks to the intense purple glow, light emitted from thousands of tiny blue and red LED bulbs, filling the small space. The illusion quickly fades; there’s no music or dancing. And yet, there is life, energy and excitement all the same. … Read More
Considering the multi-layered decadence of cheesecake, the simple story of the Cheesecake Empori-Yum’s start may surprise you. Owner Monique Williams has always enjoyed baking, but when she needed some extra cash for her dream wedding, she started selling cupcakes. The effort worked, but after the wedding, the extra income wasn’t necessary, so she stuck to … Read More