Culture

Discover the soul of Alabama through exclusive SoulGrown stories about its rich culture

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It had been my great-grandmother’s grocery store. She lived in the back room. Later, Daddy re-opened it.  My family’s Village Mercantile was the gathering place for our Jernigan, Alabama, community. […]

Under the Muscadine Vine: Country Store Colleagues

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August 15, 2024

John Michael Pierce was a Vestavia native who loved everything about life. John Michael was diagnosed with esophageal cancer at the age of 24, however, he used his illness to […]

Meet the foundation honoring a young Alabamian’s life and legacy

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August 13, 2024

A few times a generation, Alabama is gifted with some of the country’s best and brightest. These figures, making a name for themselves in their given industry, give the state […]

The story of the acclaimed Alabama author behind Forrest Gump

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August 8, 2024

We believe that Alabama is the Soul of the South. Found within our state lines are gifted human beings who cultivate their craft from home, creating the best of our […]

Meet Our 2024 Soul of the South Award Winners

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August 3, 2024

The story that started it all for Alabama artist Hannah Morris begins as a sudden and heartbreaking tragedy. Three years ago, Morris witnessed the drowning death of her best friend’s […]

Tragedy to Transformation: How an Alabama artist found her light through loss

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July 31, 2024

It seems music magic has been repeatedly made in Alabama’s Muscle Shoals, but there is one nearby story that does not often get told: the story of the man who […]

The story of the Alabama music producer who made Elvis Presley

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July 28, 2024

When picturing The Alamite Hotel in downtown Tuscaloosa, one of the first things that comes to mind is the eye-catching artwork found throughout the space, from the lobby to the […]

Art at The Alamite: Alabama artist Sarah Soule Webb on her featured work

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July 20, 2024

Regions’ history is one marked by collaboration with a focus on customers.  “Despite all the advancements in technology, banking, at its core, is still a people business,” explains Christian White, […]

A History of How Regions Bank Began 

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July 15, 2024

Botox and fillers have long been associated with the beauty regimens of celebrities and the affluent. However, there is a rising trend among African Americans embracing these cosmetic enhancements. Recently, […]

A Man About Town: Stigma to Self-Care with Alabama’s Skin Experts

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July 15, 2024

It is fair to say that memories made in the early years of our lives impact us in a remarkable way. For better or worse, these early experiences shape the […]

A Lifetime on Lay Lake: Memories on one of Alabama’s most underrated lakes

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July 13, 2024

Get ready to support Alabama farmers and celebrate all things local with Sweet Grown Alabama Day, this Saturday, July 13th.  Each summer the event is hosted by Sweet Grown Alabama, […]

Celebrate local farmers this Sweet Grown Alabama Day

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July 11, 2024

Adventure is a way of life in DeKalb County, Alabama. Everyone knows it’s a place where you keep your feet on the ground while your hands get to work. Whether […]

The business of adventure in DeKalb County, Alabama 

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July 10, 2024

Alabama is home to a surprising number of archaeological sites with deep, rich histories dating back centuries. While many of these locations have been extensively excavated and cataloged, others may […]

The mysterious history of Alabama’s ancient Moundville archaeological site

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July 7, 2024

A four-day celebration of Birmingham’s rich history of cuisine and culture returns this fall with some of the city’s top chefs and cooks, from food icon Frank Stitt to the […]

Alabama’s nationally acclaimed food and culture festival returns

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July 5, 2024

When you hear the words Alabama and reggae music, you might not think the pair has much to do with one another. But, believe it or not, the famous Muscle […]

Alabama’s unexpected role in the rise of reggae music

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July 4, 2024

There is an expression in French—chair à vif—which loosely translates to “flesh exposed.” It is the notion of being laid bare to life and light, to uncover a wound to […]

Alabama Abroad: Reflections from Chamonix, France

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July 2, 2024

In a South Alabama town of roughly 5,000 lies a stunning, secluded escape. Originally opened in 1932, Bellingrath Gardens and Home was the loving offering of Mr. and Mrs. Walter […]

The love story that built South Alabama’s Bellingrath Gardens

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June 29, 2024

If you’ve been to Lake Martin, Alabama, you have probably visited the beautiful Kowaliga area. Whether to eat, boat around, or visit the marina, the area is a mainstay of […]

The forgotten history of Kowaliga, the town beneath Lake Martin

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June 23, 2024

Regarded as one of Alabama’s most charming towns, Fairhope, Alabama sees thousands of visitors each year. While many Alabamians enjoy the small town for its undeniable charm, its origin story […]

The surprising history behind the name of Fairhope, Alabama

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June 16, 2024

June marks the celebration of both Black Music Month and Pride Month, a time to recognize the invaluable contributions of Black musicians and honor the LGBTQ+ community. This piece shines […]

A Man About Town: Celebrating Pride in the South

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June 13, 2024

Where fire alarms once rang loud and clear over the streets of the Magic City now stands a place full of fresh air—perfect conditions for the embers of creativity to […]

Firehouse Community Arts Center sets Avondale music scene ablaze

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June 12, 2024