Backyard Makeover Tips

Q: What’s the easiest way to freshen up my backyard without a full renovation?
Start small! Add pops of color with potted flowers or hanging plants, install solar string lights for ambiance, and refresh outdoor furniture with new cushions or a coat of spray paint. Even a fresh layer of mulch can make a big difference.

Q: How can I create a family-friendly outdoor space?
Consider a mix of adult relaxation and kid-friendly fun. Set up a shaded seating area with a hammock or pergola, and designate a play zone with a sandbox, kiddie pool, or outdoor chalkboard wall. Raised garden beds can be a fun family project too!

Q: What are some budget-friendly ideas to upgrade my outdoor space?
Think repurposing! Turn old pallets into planters or furniture, use gravel or mulch for inexpensive walkways, and hang string lights for instant charm. Thrift stores often have great deals on outdoor décor, and Facebook Marketplace is a goldmine for secondhand patio furniture.

Urban Cookhouse

If you haven’t experienced Urban Cookhouse yet, this is your sign to go..and go hungry! Located conveniently in Madison, this locally loved spot blends the heart of Southern cooking with a fresh, fast-casual twist that’s perfect for families, lunch breaks, or a relaxed dinner out.

What makes Urban Cookhouse stand out? They’re all about "Buy Local, Eat Urban"... which means sourcing ingredients from local farms and serving up seasonal flavors you can feel good about. Their meats are grilled over hardwood and everything is made from scratch daily.

Favorites include their mouthwatering BALT sandwich, the crowd-pleasing Urban Cowboy wrap, and the fresh, vibrant Berry Good Salad. And don’t even think about leaving without trying their signature orange roll... a sweet, citrusy Southern staple that regulars swear by.

With its cozy, casual vibe and farm-fresh philosophy, Urban Cookhouse is more than just a meal... it’s a community experience worth savoring.

Learn more...

EarlyWorks Children’s Museum

Located less than 30 minutes from Madison, EarlyWorks offers an immersive way for children to explore Alabama’s rich history. From climbing aboard a life-size keelboat to hearing stories from a talking tree, every exhibit is built to spark curiosity and engagement. Kids can pretend to shop in a 19th-century general store, explore a pioneer cabin, and even bang on the giant instruments in the Kidstruction Zone.

It’s an ideal indoor option for those hot summer afternoons and the museum also offers themed summer programs and day camps. Whether you're visiting for a couple of hours or planning a full day trip, it's a fun and educational way to keep the summer learning going strong!

Learn more...

Are You Prepared?

When severe weather strikes, early warnings can save lives. That’s why every household in Madison should have a Midland Weather Radio. This device provides instant alerts from the National Weather Service, even when power or cell service is down. With features like automatic severe weather updates and a battery backup, you’ll stay informed about tornadoes, thunderstorms, and flash floods. Here in Alabama, where unpredictable weather is common, having a Midland Weather Radio on hand offers peace of mind and essential protection for your family. Don’t wait until the next storm to get prepared! We've been hearing that they continue to sell out at local stores. Order yours today.

You can go here for instructions on how to set it up.

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If you have a local business and would love to be featured in our newsletter, you can connect with us here.

Limestone Baptist Disaster Relief

This week, we proudly shine our Community Spotlight on Limestone Baptist Disaster Relief for their compassionate service following the EF2 tornado that impacted Madison on May 20th.

The incredible team of volunteers helped residents recover by clearing debris, cutting down trees, and even removing a pergola that had landed on top of a tree. Armed with chainsaws, tractors, and skid steers, they worked tirelessly to restore safety and peace of mind to storm-affected families.

Their commitment to serving others in the aftermath of natural disasters exemplifies the heart and resilience of our community in times of need.

To learn more about the work they do or how to get involved, visit sbdr.org.

Thank you, Limestone Baptist Disaster Relief, for being a beacon of hope during challenging times.

Schools Out! Happy Summer!

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If you have read this far, you may wonder why there isn't any news about accidents, hate and crime and it's because there is just too much of that everywhere else. We want this newsletter to bring you kind awareness and also to help spread joy and information on your Sunday!

Thank you for your support

- Robert

The tornado was rated as an EF2.