Finance + Legal Services

Cullman Savings Bank

Investing in the heart of the community Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Lisa Jones Photography Cullman Savings Bank opened its doors in 1887 as Cullman Building & Loan with the same intentions as it has today, to make Cullman a better place for all who live here.  “We want to do things for the betterment of the community,” said President and CEO John Riley. “Whether it’s funding scholarships for students who may not be able to go to college any other way, helping a new business get its...

Life + Culture

Wise words

What advice would you give your 25-year-old self? Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Contributed by interviewees We asked three successful local men to share some wisdom by way of answering a simple question: "What advice would you give your 25-year-old self? Benjamin Grizzell, Smith Lake Rentals and Sales A few years after I turned 25, my life did a full somersault. I became a full-time father. If I could go back and give my 25-year-old self some advice, I’d say take a deep breath...

Health + Wellness

A father, son legacy

From one generation to the next at Boozer Eyecare Associates Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Contributed by Dr. Spencer Boozer Dr. R. Bryan Boozer established Boozer Eyecare Associates more than 40 years ago. It's a well-known, highly respected practice, and it's made all the more special because of the family legacy within its walls. Boozer's son, Dr. Spencer Boozer, joined his dad in the practice in 2017. And just last year, the younger Boozer took ownership of the family business...

Sports + Recreation

For the outdoorsmen

Werner's Trading Company and Wood's Trading Company Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Britt and Laura Wood If there’s one local place to go when it comes to finding something special for the outdoor father, husband, brother or any significant other in your life – it’s Werner’s Trading Company in Cullman. And not far away, in Gardendale, is its sister company – Wood’s Trading Company. Werner’s was established way back in 1951, with Wood’s opening in November 2024. Owners Laura and Britt...

Style + Beauty

Precision, elegance and identity

‘A quality watch remains a symbol of consistency and character’ Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Northern Magnolia Photography Kingdom Watch Company in Cullman was founded out of a deep passion for horology — the art and science of timekeeping. Owner and Founder Nathan Apodaca is certainly loves what he does, too; it’s evident in the way he talks about his work and comes through in the quality of his pieces. “I’ve always seen watchmaking as more than just building a product; it’s a...

Shopping

The ultimate gift guide

Perfect for the men in your life Article by Cullman City Lifestyle | Photography by Lisa Jones Photography, Cullman City Lifestyle Whether you’re shopping for Father’s Day, a birthday or simply want to show appreciation, this curated gift guide makes it easy to celebrate the men who mean the most. From elevated everyday wear to rugged accessories, we’ve teamed up with some of Cullman’s favorite local shops to help you find the perfect gift. Featured are products from Werner's Trading...

Education

The influence of a teacher

Tribute to Mrs. Ethalene Harbison Article and Photography by Dr. Rebekah Lloyd Teachers shape lives in ways they may never fully realize. They plant seeds of curiosity, confidence and resilience that grow long after their students leave the classroom. Some seeds take root unexpectedly, sprouting into dreams, careers and lifelong callings. For me, that guiding force was my second-grade teacher, Mrs. Ethalene Harbison. Even at a young age, I realized she saw something in me. She encouraged me...

Home + Design

‘Love what you do!’

Q&A with Granite South’s Becky Sherer Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Granite South Granite South in Jasper is well known for its beautiful selection of sleek, modern natural stone countertops. The locally owned business specializes in unique, sustainable products that help home- and business owners create or transform their spaces with materials that stand the test of time. At the helm of Granite South is Owner Becky Sherer, whose keen eye for style helps drive the company’s success...

Shopping

'We built the business together'

'We’re doing what we love, and we’re doing it together' Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Caroline Sexton - Photography by Caroline Sexton Sisters Carrie Taylor and Kim Ydel, and their mother Joan Smith opened Three Pears Boutique in 2005, their debut in the fashion retail business. Two decades later, while the trio doesn’t overtly market the shop this way, they certainly lean into being a woman-owned store as a unique identity. “We built the business together,” smiled Taylor. “Our story...

Health + Wellness

Realizing your dream

Dr. Morgan Martin on reaching your potential Article by Wendy Sack | Photography by Contributed by Dr. Morgan Martin Dr. Morgan Martin of Seidel + Martin Plastic Surgery & MedSpa in Cullman is a double board-certified plastic surgeon. She said she always knew she wanted to be a surgeon. “My mother was a recovery room nurse and this gave me exposure to the medical field and to operating. As early as middle school, I knew I was going to be a doctor and never even considered anything other than...