Cullman, AL April 2024

AT THE lake. LIFE IS happier AT THE lake. LIFE IS happier

Invest in Cullman and invest in yourself

Dear readers,

As April unfolds, we embark on a journey of investment – not just in financial terms but in our community and ourselves. Cullman has always been a place where community bonds run deep, and this month, we celebrate the spirit of investing in the collective well-being of our city.

Investing in our community is a pledge to its growth and prosperity. This month, explore local initiatives, support hometown businesses and engage in community events that foster connection. Attend local markets, art exhibitions and cultural events that not only enrich your life, but also contribute to the fun vibe of Cullman.

Equally vital is the commitment to personal growth. Take time to invest in yourself – whether it's pursuing a new hobby, joining a local fitness class or simply finding solace in the serene landscapes that our city offers. Personal investments ripple into the community, creating a positive cycle of growth and shared well-being.

Financial prudence is a cornerstone of a thriving lifestyle. April prompts us to reassess our financial strategies, consider smart investments and plan for a secure future. Seek advice from local financial experts, explore investment opportunities and make informed choices that align with your long-term goals.

Cullman, let this month be a testament to the power of intentional investments – in community bonds, personal growth and financial security. Together, let's build a future that reflects the strength and resilience of our wonderful city.

Wishing you a month filled with meaningful investments and boundless possibilities.

Warm regards,

MISSY GURLEY, PUBLISHER @CULLMAN_CITYLIFESTYLE_

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: 2024-2025 Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors - including Katie Brown and Kathy Sims 2: Kayra Everett and Jen Woodard - owners of By Grace Beauty & Wellness 3: Cullman Savings Bank contributed to two classes at Sacred Heart for a trip to Montgomery.

4: By Grace Beauty & Wellness team at the Love Yourself a Latte Ladies Night event 5: Loved meeting these sweet ladies of Coffee & Cards at Karma’s Coffee House! 6: Our magazine is perfectly paired with coffee at Karma’s Coffee House. 7: Madalyn Jordan and Julia Rushing are beautiful in their dresses and hats!

CULLMAN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CULLMAN SAVINGS BANK BY GRACE BEAUTY & WELLNESS

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

SHELLIE VINES

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CULLMAN CITY LIFESTYLE

CITY SCENE

8: Shellie Vines at the Me & My Gal event 9: The Me & My Gal Luncheon was beautiful and we loved seeing everyone’s outfits! 10: Ribbon cutting with Reset Rapid Weight Loss and the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce 11: Shane (Rebekah Lloyd’s son) having fun at Buccee’s 12: Keith and Donna Lann at the Second Century League’s Legacy Caddyshack Bash at Terri Pines 13: Rebekah Lloyd and her sister Sara Sullivan at the Me & My Gal Luncheon event 14: Busy Bee - the place to “bee” - love their breakfast

REBEKAH LLOYD

DONNA LANN

REBEKAH LLOYD

REBEKAH LLOYD

KATHY SIMS

MADALYN JORDAN

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15: Dr. Jeremy, Brooks and Jacy Hawkins at Hawkins Medical & Wellness 16: Hawkins Medical & Wellness ribbon cutting - a great group of friends and family attended. 17: The Chamber’s Javan Garner (right) attends the Young Professionals CEO Forum.

JOELLE BROOKS

JOELLE BROOKS

business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Kathy Sims - ALFA Insurance

When it comes to insurance, people are really buying assurance that what they own is covered – especially when it’s time to file a claim! That’s why I take the time to make sure you don't have any surprises. Personal and professional service is not an expression, but a promise I take very seriously for my customers – those who have placed their trust not only in Alfa Insurance, but in me. www.alfainsurance.com/agents/kathy-sims

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Hawkins Medical & Wellness

We aim to bring personal relationships back to primary care. We have a standard for patient care and believe that their plan of treatment should be individualized to their particular needs.  Relationships are the key to our practice. We wish to work alongside you and your family and work diligently to provide you with premium health care. www.hawkinsmed.com

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Elements Health & Wellness Spa

Elements Health & Wellness Spa is excited to introduce its weight loss and wellness program. NutriMost is a personalized weight loss program that utilizes a combination of computer technology, personal coaching, natural products and supplements to help you reach your weight loss and wellness goals! Promotional specials for a limited time - choose your 20-or 40-day program. Start your health and wellness journey today.

111a First St. NE in Cullman - 256-841-6151

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Photography by Kathy Sims

Photography by Elements Health & Wellness Spa

Photography by Joelle Brooks

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inkMED Skin Studio

We believe that self-care is a powerful way to promote healing and wellness. With over 20 years of combined experience in healthcare, we understand the importance of giving your body the attention it deserves. Our team has successfully transformed the lives of clients with surgical scars and stretch marks, helping them look and feel their best. We offer a range of paramedical services and treatments tailored to individual needs and conditions. www.inkmedskinstudio.com

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Lesley Hyde - State Farm Insurance

Buckle up with State Farm, and get auto insurance in Cullman, Alabama that fits your needs. You’ve got plenty of options - from collision and comprehensive to rental and rideshare. If you need more than an auto policy for the family, we provide car insurance coverage for new drivers, business travelers, collectors and more. Lesley Hyde will help you get your Personal Price Plan for auto insurance. It’s fast and easy! 256-734-8906

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Three Pears

Discover timeless elegance at Three Pears, your local boutique sanctuary. Elevate your wardrobe with carefully curated staple pieces that transcend trends. Indulge in the epitome of sophistication with our collection of classic luxury shoes. At Three Pears, we believe in investing in style, ensuring every piece becomes a cherished part of your fashion journey. Let your wardrobe tell a story of timeless allure and refined taste.

118 Fifth St. SE in Cullman

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Photography by inkMED Skin Studio

Photography by Three Pears

Photography by Lesley Hyde State Farm Insurance

‘WHEN YOU INVEST, ONE OF YOUR BIGGEST CONSIDERATIONS IS TIME’

Time: A key element of investing

ARTICLE BY KATIE BROWN, EDWARD JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA JONES - LISA JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

Edward Jones Financial Advisor Katie Brown (right) and her mother Diane Hines.

Katie Brown with her sons and her mother, Diane Hines

“And even when you’re specifically investing for some short-term goal, you can’t forget about your need to save and invest for retirement”

Who knows where the time goes? It's appropriate to reflect on the nature of time and how it affects us. And time certainly is a key element in the pursuit of your financial goals.

As an investor, time can be your greatest ally. If you hold some investments for the long term, you could achieve an impressive cumulative growth in value. Furthermore, if you keep adding shares to these investments, possibly through a dividend reinvestment plan, you could attain “growth on growth” through the power of compounding. Of course, when you own equity investments, you will experience market fluctuations, but in general, the longer you hold these investments, the more you can reduce the effects of market volatility.

But you also need to consider aspects of time in these contexts:

Checking progress on achieving goals:  When you establish a goal, such as saving for a child’s education or your own retirement, you know the end date of when you’ll need the money, but it’s also important to mark your progress along the way. So, each year, see how far along you are in meeting your goal. If you’re falling behind, you may need to adjust your investment mix.

Choosing an appropriate strategy: The time needed to achieve a goal should drive your investment strategy for that goal. For example, when you are saving for a retirement that won’t happen for three or four decades, you will need to invest for growth by placing a reasonable percentage of equities and equity-based investments in your portfolio, based on your comfort with the various types

of risk, including interest rate risk, credit risk and market risk. You will experience some bumps along the way — keep in mind that the value of investments will fluctuate and the loss of some or all principal is possible — but you likely have time to overcome the “down” periods. On the other hand, when you are saving for a short-term goal, such as a vacation or a new car or a wedding, you’ll want a set amount of money available precisely when you need it. In this case, you may need to sacrifice some growth potential for investments whose principal value won’t fluctuate, such as certificates of deposit (CDs) and bonds. Keep in mind, though, that when you’re investing for long- and short-term goals, it doesn’t have to be just one strategy or the other. You can save for retirement with primarily growth vehicles but still have room in your portfolio for shorter-term instruments. And even when you’re specifically investing for some shortterm goal, you can’t forget about your need to save and invest for retirement.

And here’s one final point about the relationship between time and investing: Your risk tolerance can, and probably will, change over the years. As you near retirement, you may feel the need to adjust your portfolio toward a more conservative approach. That’s because you may want to consolidate any gains you might have achieved while also recognizing that you simply have less time to bounce back from down markets. Still, even in retirement, you’ll need some growth potential in your portfolio to help you stay ahead of inflation. When you invest, one of your biggest considerations is time — so use it wisely.

Investing in land

ARTICLE BY MELISSA CURTIS & THOMAS JOINER PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS

The value of Cullman County and Smith Lake Smith Lake’s emerald green waters are calling

Nestled in the heart of Alabama, Cullman and the serene expanse of Smith Lake beckon with an invitation to invest in more than just land – to invest in a lifestyle. As small-town charm meets the tranquil beauty of the lake, the allure of these areas for real estate investment becomes undeniable.

Cullman has all that welcoming small-town charm! You can enjoy the simplicity of life with friendly neighbors, local businesses and a genuine sense of community. The city of Cullman has year-round events that are perfect for the entire family - 2nd Fridays, the Alabama Strawberry Festival, Oktoberfest and Christkindlmarkt - just to name a few.

Homes in Cullman County are beautiful and many have rich histories. You can tour some of these homes on the Share Club Christmas Tour of Homes in December. But the area has lots of land, as well, for farming, hunting and so much more. Cullman County is known for its agricultural success. And it is the top agricultural producer in Alabama, with poultry being at the top of the list.

The Smith Lake area is one of the most popular parts of Cullman County. Smith Lake is actually so large that it is in three counties - Cullman, Walker and Winston. It is rated the cleanest lake in Alabama and has gorgeous, emerald-green waters. It covers approximately 21,200 acres and has more than 500 miles of shoreline. The maximum depth

Melissa Curtis

Cullman’s country landscape

can be found at Lewis Smith Dam - 264 feet. Smith Lake is the answer to relaxation - with its crystal clear waters and peaceful surroundings. As a playground for water enthusiasts - water skiing, boating and jet skis are a must. But you will also find many fishing tournaments are held here because of Smith Lake’s vast variety of fish - it is a great destination for bass fishing!

Cullman has seen explosive growth over the past five years. From April 2020 to July 2022, the population increased by 3.2%. Over those five years, Cullman has consistently ranked in the top 10 best cities in the state to raise a family. The state of Alabama as a whole has been among the top 10 "moved-to" states in the country over that time. What does that mean for you the homeowner, landowner, or investor?

There have been significant increases in property values. Check out the statistics below.

Whether you're seeking a permanent residence, a vacation retreat or a retirement oasis, the warmth of the community and the beauty of the surroundings make it more than just an investment – it's a decision to weave your story into the fabric of a remarkable place.

AVERAGE CULLMAN COUNTY HOME SALES

• 54% increase in home values in the last five years

• 2019: $173,741

• 2023: $267,811

AVERAGE SMITH LAKE WATERFRONT LOT PRICE IN CULLMAN COUNTY

• 104% increase in the past five years

• 2019: $120,495

• 2023: $246,896

AVERAGE PRICE PER ACRE FOR VACANT LAND IN CULLMAN COUNTY (10-PLUS ACRE TRACTS)

• 204% increase in the past five years

• 2019: $3,432.18 per acre

• 2023: $10,454.29 per acre

“Like a diamond that is deep, clear and blue, Lewis Smith Lake is one of Alabama’s treasures. Located in Walker, Winston and Cullman counties, this 21,200acre lake is different than most other Alabama reservoirs. If you typically fish a shallow, stained body of water, then your first trip onto Smith Lake can be intimidating. Watching your depth finder jump to 200-plus feet can leave you feeling lost. However, like most lakes, the majority of bass, bream and crappie fishing is done by casting to the numerous large rocks and fallen trees along the shoreline.” (Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources)

Thomas Joiner

Investing in yourself, Southern style

A SELF-CARE JOURNEY IN ALABAMA

In the heart of the South, where the hospitality flows as sweet as the tea, there's a timeless truth – investing in yourself is the key to a fulfilling life. Let's explore how to embrace self-care, self-help and self-love, ensuring a feel-good journey that's distinctly Southern.

SOUTHERN CHARM, SKIN-DEEP

• Invest in quality makeup and skincare that accentuates your natural beauty.

• Don't forget the sunscreen – a Southern belle's secret to radiant and protected skin.

• Take a “me” day - visit your local aesthetician and put the glow back in your skin

TEA AND GOOD READS

• Sip on a warm cup of tea as you immerse yourself in the pages of a captivating book.

• Self-help books add a dash of wisdom and self-discovery to your reading list.

• Visit your local bookstore and dive into a new book.

EXERCISE WITH A SOUTHERN TWIST

• Shake off the stress with a dance to some soulful tunes or join a lively Zumba class.

• Embrace the Southern tradition of front-porch yoga for a serene and grounded workout.

• Take a morning stroll with a friend and catch up - it is good for the soul(s).

GARDEN THERAPY, SOUTHERN STYLE

• Cultivate your green thumb with a backyard garden – a therapeutic escape.

• Planting flowers and herbs brings not only beauty but a touch of Southern flavor to your surroundings.

• Pick a boutique and bring it indoors - it will brighten your space but also make you smile seeing it.

COMFORT FOOD, REIMAGINED

• Treat yourself to soulful, yet nourishing comfort food recipes.

• Southern cuisine can be both indulgent and health-conscious – find the balance that suits your taste.

• From fruits, vegetables, biscuits and honey to fried chicken - healthy to fried foods - whatever your heart desires - indulge and enjoy!

MINDFUL SWEET TEA SIPPING

• Practice mindful moments with a glass of sweet tea on the porch.

• Savor each sip, relishing the simplicity and warmth of Southern traditions.

• Iced tea in glass, filled to the rim with ice, with a hint of lemon - that is happiness on a summer’s day.

SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY, SELF-LOVE EDITION

• Extend the hospitality you're known for to yourself.

• Embrace self-love with affirmations, recognizing your worth and embracing yourself

• Journal and put into words your thoughts, worries and delights for each day.

PORCH SWING REFLECTIONS

• Take a moment on the porch swing to reflect on your journey.

• Journal your thoughts, dreams and aspirations – a practice as comforting as a summer breeze.

SOUTHERN SPA DAY

• Create a spa day at home with DIY face masks and soothing delicious scents.

• Relax, recharge and indulge in the luxury of self-care, right in the comfort of your Southern sanctuary.

SUNSET STROLLS AND SELF-REFLECTION

• End the day with a stroll under the Southern sunset.

• Reflect on your blessings, dreams and the unique charm that investing in yourself brings to your Southern soul.

In the heart of Alabama, investing in yourself isn't just a notion – it's a way of life, rooted in Southern grace and warmth. So, sweet tea in hand, let's embark on a self-care journey that celebrates the charm and resilience that make you distinctly Southern. Here's to investing in the most precious thing of all – you.

In the heart of Alabama, investing in yourself isn’t just a notion – it’s a way of life, rooted in Southern grace and warmth.

‘BANKER’S LUNCH COCKTAIL”

Here is a cocktail you can “take to the bank.” This is a delicious drink for a power lunch or afternoon meeting. Enjoy!

ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz. vodka

• 1/2 oz. dry vermouth

• 1/2 oz. orange liqueur

• 1/2 oz. orange juice, freshly squeezed

• 1/2 oz. grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed

(Adapted from a recipe by Eric Alperin at The Varnish)

directions:

Step 1. Add all the ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake until well chilled.

Step 2. Strain into a glass (we chose a champagne coupe) over fresh ice.

• Garnish- grapefruit or orange twist ARTICLE

Step 3. Garnish with a grapefruit or orange twist (we chose an orange twist).

HOW TO DESIGN A RELAXING SPACE

ARTICLE BY EMILY FOSTER INTERIORS

INVESTING IN HOME DESIGN CAN GIVE YOU A PEACEFUL SANCTUARY WHERE YOU CAN ESCAPE FROM THE STRESSES OF DAILY LIFE. SO GO AHEAD, TAKE THE PLUNGE AND REVAMP YOUR LIVING SPACES – IT’S WORTH EVERY PENNY!

invest inyour living space

There are many things that can help a room feel relaxing, but let’s keep it simple and focus on my top three. I would say that one must incorporate good lighting, great textures, and a decluttered space to truly get the cozy vibes. Let’s tackle each.

GOOD LIGHTING

It’s imperative that there are multiple sources of light in a space. Rooms need a soft warm light, so I always like to use a light bulb between 2,700k and 3,000k. Also, all lights should have the same temperature light bulb to avoid clashing. It’s not enough to just have recessed or pendant lighting. I add a table or floor lamp to a space to truly have ambient light.  Candles are a must for me. They can be scented candles (an extra way to add relaxation) or I like to use remote control tapered candles, so I don’t have to worry about cleaning up wax later.

GREAT TEXTURES

Textures are seen in toss pillows, rugs, draperies, throw blankets and furniture upholstery. Textures add color, pattern and visual interest. I like to use at least three different textures to help a room feel lived-in and welcoming.

DECLUTTERING

So many times, a person thinks that every nook and cranny and every wall need to have something, and this is not the case. A decluttered space is actually more relaxing because overcrowding of items doesn’t quiet the mind. Decluttering a space can be overwhelming, I get it, so just do it in stages.  You’ll love the outcome when the room is tidy, organized and you are only surrounded with what brings you joy.

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

simple roasted salmon with dill coconut cream

RECHARGING YOUR SOUL IN

Travel is no longer just a luxury, it’s an investment that has the power to enrich our lives in ways that traditional financial investments cannot. It broadens our horizons, enhances personal and professional growth, and allows you to recharge your mind and body.

Crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

Cancún is known around the world as one of Mexico’s finest tourist destinations. Steeped in the rich history of the Mexican Caribbean, Cancún offers visitors the best that the Yucatán Peninsula has to offer. Whether you are coming for the all-inclusive resort experience or are looking to enjoy the seemingly never-ending gorgeous beaches, Cancún has it all. Unbelievably fresh and delicious seasonal cuisine, great weather, a rich cultural history, exquisitely clear turquoise blue Caribbean waters, and vibrant coral reefs are all waiting for you to explore when you arrive.

Nature lovers, environmentalists, thrill seekers, and luxury destination travel enthusiasts all have a place to call home in Cancún. Boulevard Kukulkan, more commonly known as the Hotel Zone, is home to Cancún’s most luxurious all-inclusive hotels and boasts some of the city’s finest restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping centers. This fifteen-mile-long sand bar separates the Caribbean Sea from the Laguna Inchoate. The brackish waters of

the lagoon’s nature reserve and Mangrove ecosystem offer an exciting, ecologically friendly look into the rich natural history of Cancún. On the other side of the boulevard, crystal-clear waters and perfectly white sandy beaches await to recharge the spirits of all weary travelers.

The JW Marriott Resort and Spa is the place to stay while in Cancún. You'll be met by the most gracious of staff and a high level of service is standard across the property. This impeccably designed resort features multiple pools, an incredible spa, countless delicious restaurants, and a delightful lobby bar featuring over 150 signature margaritas.

Caring for the mind and body should be an essential part of everyone’s travel. A little physical exercise is a necessary element of any vacation for me. Puerto Maya Cancún combines a look into the historical Mayan culture of the Yucatán followed by an amazing speed boat tour of both the lagoon and the sea. And, just when you think it can’t get any better, it’s time to jump in and swim around. Snorkeling on the vibrant coral reefs and visiting MUSA, the Cancun Underwater Museum of Art, absolutely recharges the mind, body, and soul. It is an incredible workout!

If you care to go a little further out of the city, Cenotes Zapote Eco-Tour awaits. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that expose cool, refreshing, groundwater

that is both invigorating and spiritually refreshing at the same time. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatán, each one is unique and otherworldly. Floating or frolicking in the cool waters inside the earth is the ultimate spa experience. There are zip lines or diving platforms at most cenotes and they are well worth experiencing.

While it is nice to explore the “Hotel Zone”,  you don't have to leave the hotel to experience fine international dining at its best!

Sacbé Beach Shack, located in the adjoining Marriott property was beyond belief. Situated directly on the sandy beaches beneath the hotel, the "beach shack" is a whimsically designed bar and dining room offering a perfect oceanside culinary experience. The freshest local ingredients were artfully combined to create a scrumptious offering that highlights regional Mexican cuisines. The mezcal lab experience with famed Master Mezcalier, Chef Benjamín Nava Vargas was an unexpected treat and opened a door to a delicious understanding and appreciation of small-batch mezcals.

Other JW Marriott Resort and Spa culinary treasures include Hana Polynesian Grill’s themed dining room. Perfectly crafty cocktails paired wonderfully with the authentic Polynesian Islands menu. The evening’s festivities were highlighted by a completely themed costumed troupe of singers and dancers performing time-honored Polynesian fire dances. While visiting, be sure to explore Kasai Izakaya, Club 91, and Bravo, a very fresh take on modern Spanish cuisine.

And, when it feels like it’s time to leave the hotel again, check out Chambao Cancún. Just think of it as an interactive curated dinner theatre experience with pop-up music, dance, fashion, and acrobatic activations staged throughout the evening.

Cancún should be at the top of everyone’s travel list in 2024. Trust me, you can thank me later.

JW-Marriott.marriott.com

PuertoMayaCancun.com

CenotesZapote.com

ChambaoRestaurant.com

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 3RD

Lunch and Learn: Beekeeping and Honey

North Alabama Agriplex | 12:00 PM Agriplex Beekeeper Bill Grimmett will take you through the joys and challenges of keeping bees and making honey. Join us for a honey inspired meal. Cost is $10 per person, and includes light lunch and program. Register at http://tinyurl.com/AgriplexBees.

APRIL 8TH

2024 Solar Eclipse Party

Cullman Electric Cooperative | 12:00 PM

Join us from noon-3:30 p.m. We will have FREE solar eclipse viewing glasses for the first 400 individuals who bring a canned food donation to The Link's Master's Hand Food Pantry. The Butcher and Carnival Cravings will have food trucks on-site with food for purchase. We will have crafts/activities in our training room for the whole family to enjoy!

APRIL 12TH - 14TH

2024 Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo

Von Braun Center | 3:00 PM

Family-friendly three-day event in the heart of beautiful downtown Huntsville celebrating ALL things comic and pop culture! The show will include cosplay contests, gaming rooms, discussion panels, a charity auction, special celebrity guests, 100-plus vendors, Artists/Authors Alley and much more! Get hours and ticket information at www.hsvexpo.com.

events

APRIL 13TH

St. Paul's Lutheran School Alumni & Friends Dinner and Auction Traditions Bank Operations Building | 5:00 PM

The largest fundraiser of the year for St. Paul’s Lutheran School is a fantastic evening filled with nostalgia and fellowship among parents, alumni and friends. As we come together to celebrate the 70th anniversary of St. Paul’s, it is an incredible honor to announce that the IMPACT Award will go to the seven founding families. Get tickets at www.stpaulscullmanptl.com.

APRIL 20TH - 21ST

40th Annual Bloomin’ Festival Arts and Craft Fair

St. Bernard Preparatory School | 9:00 AM

Bloomin’ Festival is a two-day juried arts festival attracting more than 25,000 visitors to the beautiful campus of St. Bernard Abbey and Preparatory School. Located adjacent to the school is the world-famous Ave Maria Grotto. More than 150 booths are filled with artists demonstrating and exhibiting their unique handcrafted work. Get more details at www.bloominfestival.com.

MAY 3RD - 4TH

Alabama Strawberry Festival

Depot Park and Cullman Festhalle | 3:00 PM

The Cullman Strawberry Festival - now the Alabama Strawberry Festival - is now bigger and juicier, expanding to a twoday extravaganza to kick off the summer!

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend of sweet treats, top-tier musical acts (featuring Eli Young Band and Nico Moon), family-friendly entertainment and the freshest strawberries around! Get more info at www.alabamastrawberryfest.com.