Paint and Beans Marks First Anniversary Serving Art and Espresso in Shadow Ridge
Local favorite Paint and Beans celebrated its first anniversary this week, marking twelve months of pouring fresh coffee and inspiring creativity on Market Street.
The shop, owned and operated by sisters Mel, Sarina, and Anne Sexton, has quickly become a gathering place for Shadow Ridge residents looking for a little more than just a caffeine fix. Half cozy coffeehouse and half art studio, Paint and Beans offers visitors a chance to sip lattes while trying their hand at everything from watercolor painting to pottery glazing.
“It’s been amazing seeing folks who never thought they were artsy pick up a brush for the first time,” said Mel, who was busy helping set up canvases for an evening paint-and-sip session. “We wanted a place where people could unwind, get inspired, and maybe find a new hobby along the way.”
In its first year, Paint and Beans has hosted dozens of workshops and local art showcases all while brewing up what many loyal customers claim is the best cup of coffee in town.
Regular patron Naomi Carter, who drops by most mornings before work, said, “It’s my favorite spot. You walk in for the coffee, but you end up staying to chat, paint, or just watch someone else create. There’s nothing else like it in Shadow Ridge.”
To celebrate the anniversary, the shop offered free mini art sessions and a special limited-edition espresso roast named The Market Street Blend, roasted locally and only available while supplies last.
With plans to expand their class offerings and bring in more local artists, Paint and Beans looks poised to remain a beloved part of downtown Shadow Ridge for years to come.
The interior of Paint and Beans on Market Street.
Shadow Ridge Sheriff’s Department Hosts Nature Scavenger Hunt and Tech Demo
Next week, the Shadow Ridge Sheriff’s Department will team up with Marsh Middle School to give local sixth graders a unique lesson in exploring the outdoors and using modern technology to stay connected while doing it.
A nature scavenger hunt will take place in the Shadow Ridge Wildlife Reserve, where students will search for native plants, animal tracks, and other natural treasures hidden along the trails.
In addition to the traditional scavenger hunt, this year’s event includes a partnership with the county Parole Office, that will provide students with hands-on demonstrations of the latest tracking and communication equipment. As part of Marsh Middle School’s commitment to teaching kids about technology in real-world settings, students will test GPS units to see how officers and conservation teams use digital tools in the field.
Sheriff Prather said the department is proud to help kids build a stronger connection to their hometown’s natural areas. “We want students to know that technology doesn’t have to pull them away from the outdoors — it can help them explore it safely and responsibly,” he said.
Marsh Middle School teachers say the event is designed to spark curiosity about local wildlife while giving students a practical look at how technology and the environment can overlap.
The scavenger hunt is set for next Monday, parole officers and school staff on hand to guide students through the reserve, answer questions, and share a picnic lunch afterward.
Families can look for photos and updates on the Marsh Middle School website and the Shadow Ridge Sheriff’s Department’s community bulletin page.
A group of Marsh Middle School students at the 2022 nature scavenger hunt.
Reminder: April 25th Deadline to File for July Elections in Walker County
The Walker County Election Office is reminding all prospective candidates that April 25th is the final day to submit petitions to appear on the ballot for the upcoming July elections.
Residents interested in running for local office must file the proper paperwork and pay a filing fee of $62.50 at the Walker County Clerk’s Office no later than close of business on the 25th.
A variety of municipal and county positions will be up for a vote this summer, including:
Shadow Ridge Mayor
Shadow Ridge Town Council (2 seats)
Walker County District Attorney
Walker County Municipal Judge
Walker County School Board (1 seat)
Walker County Sheriff
Walker County Tax Assessor
Candidates must submit a completed petition form along with the filing fee to secure their spot on the ballot. The Walker County Election Office encourages anyone with questions about the filing process to contact the County Clerk’s Office during regular business hours.
Election officials stress that petitions received after the April 25th deadline will not be accepted under any circumstances.
For more information about local election deadlines, filing requirements, or to download candidate forms, visit the Walker County Election Office website or stop by the clerk’s office in person.
