The Groundhog

08/08/2025

August: Between Frenzy and Flow

Back-to-school season brings its usual hustle — crowded aisles, busy schedules, bittersweet emotions. But columnist deJoly LaBrier reminds us that August is more than a to-do list. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and gather what we've grown — in gardens and in ourselves.

“It’s a time to walk more slowly. Notice more. Let both the light and shadow in.”

Read the full column in the August issue of The Groundhog: https://readthegroundhog.com/august-between-frenzy-and-flow/

08/07/2025

Honoring Dedication & Family Legacy

Valley Head Lodge #394 proudly awarded a $1,000 scholarship to Valley Head graduate Eli Day, who will begin his studies at the University of West Alabama this fall. The moment was made even more special as the check was presented by his grandfather, Donnie Wagner, current Worshipful Master of the lodge.

Read the full story in the August issue of The Groundhog: https://readthegroundhog.com/masons-present-scholarship-to-valley-head-graduate/

08/06/2025

Strum along with the Mentone Ukes this August!

Whether you're a beginner or a longtime fan, there are plenty of chances to join in the fun — from free intro sessions to festive performances during the World’s Longest Yard Sale and International Play Music on the Porch Day. Don’t miss their special “Christmas in August” 6th anniversary celebration on August 30!

Find all the dates, details, and ways to get involved in the August issue of The Groundhog: https://readthegroundhog.com/mentone-ukes/

08/05/2025

Get ready, pickers and treasure hunters — the World’s Longest Yard Sale is almost here!

From vintage finds to surprise steals, this 690-mile stretch of roadside sales brings thousands to Mentone and beyond. Vendors, visitors, and volunteers alike make this weekend a true Southern spectacle.

Find out where to shop, what’s new this year, and how our local stops — like St. Joseph’s and The Possum Emporium — are adding to the excitement.

Read the full feature in the August issue of The Groundhog: https://readthegroundhog.com/get-ready-the-worlds-longest-yard-sale-returns-aug-7-10/

08/01/2025

There’s music on the front porch of Moon Lake Village—Mentone, Alabama and sooo many dogs! Bring your furry friend and join the fun!

It’s Hot Doggity Dog Days at the First Friday event, hosted by the Little River Arts Council! As always, Betty Dunavant with OtherWorld Gifts is in costume and in a celebratory spirit. The Dekalb County Animal Adoption Center is on with some special furry friends. Come check out the animals on parade, see artists displaying their work, visit all the shops and galleries, and enjoy some refreshments. And make reservations for Moon Lake Kitchen’s amazing creole and Cajun dinner!

07/30/2025

🐝 Be Part of the Buzz!

Alabama Master Gardeners and local garden clubs invite you to join the Great Southeast Pollinator Census on August 22–23. Help count and identify pollinators in your backyard and support vital conservation efforts across the region.

📖 Learn how to participate in this month’s Groundhog or visit gsepc.org.

07/29/2025

🌟 Volunteer Hero: Juli Jordan 🌟

This month, we celebrate Juli Jordan — president of the Little River Arts Council, community connector, and the spirited human behind Lookout the Groundhog. From leading arts initiatives to dancing in costume, Juli brings joy, creativity, and heart to Mentone. ✨

📖 Read her story in this month’s Groundhog at https://readthegroundhog.com/groundhog-volunteer-hero-juli-jordan/

07/28/2025

🧠 Know the Signs, Take Action

Memory loss, confusion, and behavioral changes can be early signs of Alzheimer’s — a disease affecting millions. This month’s Groundhog shares key symptoms to watch for and explains why early diagnosis matters.

📖 Read the full article in this month’s issue: https://readthegroundhog.com/alzheimers-awareness/

07/26/2025

07/25/2025

🌄 From Camper to Community Leader

Rob Hammond’s journey from an 11-year-old summer camper to longtime mayor of Mentone is a story of service, vision, and deep local roots. Discover how one man’s love for this mountain town has helped shape its past, present, and future.

📖 Read the full feature in this month’s Groundhog at https://readthegroundhog.com/a-life-rooted-in-mentone/