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It has been an honor and privilege for us to serve the McClellan Development Authority and this remarkable community.  I am proud to have led our incredible and hardworking staff and manage the board’s development direction through some challenging times.   As we close out this chapter of the MDA, we wanted to highlight some of our successes and achievements for the McClellan area. These photos represent just a sample of the projects, developments, relationships, and positive changes that we have achieved over the past few years.    Through bringing in new business, helping companies expand, creating interest through marketing, social media and community involvement, advancing ecotourism, providing safety measures, sprucing up McClellan and bringing life to a stagnant area; we are confident that McClellan is in a stronger position to continue to grow and thrive due to our hard work and commitment to this community.   On behalf of my amazing staff, we thank you for all the support and trust you’ve given us to help move McClellan forward.     With Gratitude,   Jules Moss Executive Director We aided the Alabama National Guard with their expansion of the Fort McClellan Training Facility, utilizing previously undevelopable land. Our collaborative efforts were recognized with a Certificate of Achievement from the United States Department of the Army in September 2024. We’ve welcomed new business ventures, including OneWorld Pet Resort, Team Sports + McClellan Sports & Outdoors, Longleaf Primary Care, McClellan Senior Living, and more. Creedmoor Sports purchased additional land to move their base operations to McClellan, and we aided in the resale of the Starships for development into movie and recording studios. We worked diligently with the City of Anniston and the Anniston Police Department to install a four-way stop at the intersection of Gen. Gerald Watson Way and Summerall Gate Rd, speed humps at the entrance of the McClellan Trails, and four live-feed security cameras around McClellan. We also invested in a complete overhaul of the wayfinding signs to improve direction and encourage visitors. In 2019, we opened Phase I of the McClellan Trails, the first trails in the state constructed specifically for middle and high school mountain bikers with the expertise of FlowMotion Trail Builders and IMBA Trail Solutions. Phase II and III expanded the trail system to a total of 18 miles of multi-use singletrack for hikers, bikers, walkers, and runners. In 2023, the McClellan Trails contributed to a $9.7 million economic impact from visitor spending. After repairing the dam, the MDA began the process of redeveloping Lake Yahou in 2019 — stocking fish, clearing the drives, and marking the walking trail. Since its grand opening in May 2022, new varieties of fish have been added, the roads and parking lot have been paved, and a 50-foot pier has been constructed. The park also connected to the McClellan Multi-Use Trails for additional access. Our development efforts have led to the demolition, construction, and remodeling of various sites and buildings across McClellan, with a renewed focus on residential development, as well as the consistent maintenance of the grounds to keep properties for sale in prime condition. McClellan has become a mecca for various events -- social, historical, and recreational. 2024 featured the Alabama Dryland Dawg Derby, Shred for Sloan, McClellan Madness, Alabama Cycling Association Season Race, Gone Riding Georgia State Championship Race #2, OneWorld Canine Obstacle Run, Assault on Sunset Hill, Lake Yahou 50k, Treadhoofalon, German-Italian Memorial Ceremony, Anniston Runners Club Christmas Tree Run, Wreaths Across America Wreath-Laying Ceremony, and more. In 2019, we deeded the Calhoun County Commission 930 acres of land for the development of horse trails for only $1. We maintain the non-private grounds in the McClellan community, including upholding the beauty and honoring the significance of the Baltzell Gate entrance to McClellan – the last entrance with a guard house still remaining. During the 2021 Fort McClellan Military Police reunion, we dedicated the Baltzell Gate Guard House to the men and women of the Military Police Corps and federal civilian service who protected the Fort during its operation. Beginning with the hire of a marketing specialist in 2022, the MDA has ramped up and made outstanding improvements in our digital presence in order to effectively promote development, business, and recreation, highlighting our well-engaged Facebook community. These measures include the much-needed redesign of MDA website to feature a frequently-updated properties page, as well as the creation of the “What’s Happening at McClellan” e-newsletter. Our staff reunited, fostered, or found new homes for four dogs who were lost or dumped at McClellan. We began the process of clearing out a 42-acre site for the development of a residential subdivision of garden homes, which would have provided a new area of McClellan for people to call home. At the end of 2024, we contracted Flowmotion Trail Builders to design an expansion concept plan for the multi-use trails for the 700 acres across from the Camp McClellan Horse Trails on Iron Mountain Rd. The design would safely separate horse riders on their own trails, as well as offer trails for mountain bikers, hikers, walkers, and runners to prioritize the interests of all trail groups.

The MDA extends apologies to everyone who expressed interest in the residential subdivision project, The Park at McClellan. After nearly a year of diligent work, we regret to share that our development plans were not approved by the City of Anniston; therefore, we weren’t able to reach the point of an official reveal or announcement.   We wanted to share the survey map that showcases our original vision for a subdivision of garden homes, which we considered the ideal place for retirees and those looking to downsize in a quiet, historic community. While we’re disappointed, we couldn’t bring this vision to life, we remain hopeful that someone will bring this project to fruition. We also want to thank Hutto Construction for preparing the site, L.I. Smith & Associates for their design and engineering plan, and all those who supported this project since its infancy.

This week, Preston York of FlowMotion Trail Builders presented the multi-use trail extension concept design for the 700 hundred acres across from the Camp McClellan Horse Trails on Iron Mountain Rd at the MDA’s quarterly meeting and the Regional Trails Committee meeting in Jacksonville. As York explained, our vision for this property is to create a trail activity hub for hikers, bikers, runners, and horse riders, with carefully designed safety measures to protect and accommodate everyone. The plans have been well-received by the trail community, and many are excited to see the project come to fruition. Tomorrow, York will present these plans to the Back Country Horsemen of America, McClellan Chapter to address pertinent questions regarding the multi-use design. The MDA has always valued the diversity of our recreational community and worked to ensure equal representation for all trail user groups. We are grateful to Flowmotion Trail Builders for bringing this vision to life through this concept map, demonstrating that a multi-use trail system is not only achievable but also best suited for the property.

Kelly Lee, Director (Top) with McClellan Senior Living Residents at their 9/11 Memorial Service At McClellan Senior Living, activities aren’t just events on a calendar—they’re essential components of the lifestyle and social well-being of a thriving senior community. Executive Director Kelly Lee and Administrative Assistant Angie Johnson, who both joined McClellan Senior Living (MSL) in 2019, aim for inclusivity and variety to ensure the residents of the 64-apartment community have meaningful opportunities to connect, engage, and flourish in their golden years. "Social interaction is a key element of overall well-being, especially as we age," Lee explained. "We understand this and aim to foster a sense of community and belonging. Through planned social gatherings, group games, and shared interest clubs, we help create a connected environment where friendships can blossom." Each weekday starts with a morning exercise class to energize residents. From there, the weekly lineup includes: Monday : Game Day, featuring dominoes, cards, and more. Tuesday : Beauty Shop and Nail Spa Day, offering pampering and relaxation. Wednesday : Hymn Singing and Bible Study to nurture the spirit. Thursday : Shopping trips for essentials and a change of scenery. Friday : Bingo, a resident favorite that brings everyone together. In addition to these regular activities, MSL hosts guest speakers, birthday celebrations, and holiday-themed parties that add extra excitement to the calendar. “Whether it’s organizing fitness classes, crafting sessions, educational workshops, or social gatherings, we ensure that every event encourages participation and engagement,” Johnson said. Lee and Johnson consider various factors when planning the lineup of events, such as physical ability, cognitive needs, and participant preferences. By taking a thoughtful approach that prioritizes inclusivity, Johnson plays a significant role in combating isolation and ensuring that residents feel connected to those around them. She added, "Our goal is to ensure that everyone has the chance to participate in something that makes them feel part of the community." Beyond the weekly schedule, MSL’s annual events are showstoppers that involve not just residents and staff, but the local community. Favorites include the Grease-Themed Classic Car Show, the Monster Mash Halloween Festival, the Live Nativity Play, and the Hillbilly Hoedown Christmas Program. The Hillbilly Hoedown, in particular, has become a cherished tradition. Inspired by Lee’s trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this Hee-Haw-style variety show combines music, humor, and pop culture spoofs from days of yore, brought to life by the acting talents of residents and staff. “We start practicing in October, usually after our morning exercise class,” Lee shared. “I always take ideas and suggestions from our staff and residents, and to my amazement, so many talented individuals put on a very entertaining show for our residents and their loved ones.” [Use the arrows to scroll through photos from the 2024 Hillbilly Hoedown Christmas Program] For Lee and Johnson, the work they do at McClellan Senior Living is deeply rewarding. It’s about more than planning activities—it’s about building relationships and creating a supportive, joyful environment where residents feel included, engaged, and perhaps even young again. “The residents have taught me so much about life,” Lee reflected. “They remind me daily that if you become their friend, they’ll be yours.” To keep up with the busy activities at McClellan Senior Living, check out their Facebook page .

The McClellan Trails are the first specially design NICA trail in the state of Alabama. A ribbon cutting was schedule for the evening of Wednesday, June 26, 2019. Mother Nature seemed to have other plans as she provided several storms with torrential down pours, thunder and lighting. As we got closer to 5:30 p.m. our designated time the sprinkles that were left all but went away. With local mountain bikers and a few from Birmingham, coaches and parents, city and county officials, and MDA Board Members, our celebration was going to happen. Remarks were made by Phil Webb, Chairman of MDA, and the cutting of the ribbon was done by Board member, Freeman Fite, whose idea it was to build the trails. The biggest announcement after the actual opening of the trails is that the second race of the NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) season will be hosted right here at the McClellan Trails on March 7- 8, 2020. This announcement was met with much applause, especially from the team riders. On behalf of MDA, a big thank you was provided to Trail Solutions (trail builders), IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association), Preston York from Flowmotion, Patrick Wigley from Wigs Wheels and the mountain bike riders and their coaches. The ribbon was then cut and the Cheaha, Donoho, and Jacksonville team riders and their coaches took to the trails for the first time. The most heard comment was “it’s smooth and it’s fast”. The thumbs up, was a good sign that the trails were a hit especially for those that will call it their home trail. The trails are officially open 7 days a week from Dawn to Dusk.

For one day a year in Calhoun County, local recreation groups partner together in a one-of-a-kind triathlon event at the Camp McClellan Horse Trails and Campground. This year, eight teams comprised of a horse rider, mountain biker, and trail runner joined forces to compete in the third annual Treadhoofalon at McClellan, a portmanteau of the treads of bike tires and running shoes, horse hooves, and triathlon. The event founders, Lain and Julie Hawk, participate in all three activities recreationally, and wanted to bring an entirely new concept to the recreational landscape of this area. With the help of the Back County Horseman of America (BCHA), Northeast Alabama Bicycle Association (NEABA), and the Anniston Runners Club (ARC), their vision became a reality in 2022 — with a lot of hard work and some amazing volunteers, that is. "The first two years I lost sleep stressing about everything, wanting to make sure it went well. This year was less stressful!" said Julie Hawk. "We knew what needed to be done and when leading up to the event. We spend two full days setting up the course for the event, putting out signs for the routes, taping off sections so participants don’t go the wrong way, and blowing leaves off the mountain biking and running routes." Hawk added that something always comes up the day of the event, but now they've learned to bounce back from setbacks and just roll with it. "We try to make sure everyone has a good time!" Wes Hodge, a three-time participant of the Treadhoofalon, took home 2nd Place Overall Mountain Biker in the individual awards this year. " Lain and Julie’s idea has developed into a fun event for everyone involved," he said. "I’ve made friends that I would never have known and continue to develop those friendships every year.  It’s fun to race, but the camaraderie that’s built at the finish line cheering on other competitors and sitting around the table eating the delicious food provided by the BCHA is what the event is all about. I’m already looking forward to next year!" LEFT: Event founders Lain and Julie Hawk pictured with Wes Hodge in the BCHA Pavillion. RIGHT: Vicki Ashley photographed with her 19-year-old horse, Cinco, showcasing her first place trophy. Horse riders lead the event every year, lining up beside the stables from fastest to slowest, then taking off at 30 second intervals. When they come out of the course, their mountain biker teammate is waiting on foot to tag off to maintain a safe space between the horses and bicycles. Vicki Ashley, a horse rider who placed 1st in the Gaited Horse category this year, has participated in all three years of the Treadhoofalon, and is already looking forward to next year, as well. "This year was especially enjoyable because my brother, who is a mountain biker, came over from Georgia to compete on my team," she said. "The teamwork and camaraderie leaves all of us with a sense of admiration for the work we each put into our sports." Co-founder Lain Hawk explained, "Our goal for the Treadhoofalon is simple, bring all the different trail user groups together to socialize and have a fun time together. I feel like we have been able to do that with this event. Hopefully by everyone working together we can grow the trail network in the area for more trail opportunities." Proceeds from the Treadhoofalon are donated to various local charities, including the Sassy Tails Outreach Program, an initiative sponsored by the BCHA that connects special needs children with horses and nature. Hawk added, "We always love being able to help make a difference for our local kids!" Plans for the 2025 Treadhoofalon are already underway. For more information, please visit the Treadhoofalon Facebook page or www.treadhoofalon.com .

About the Job The Maintenance / Ground Crew position is full time. The crew member performs manual work including ground maintenance and improvements and will assist with more involved task and projects on the property. The person in this position will be expected to follow directions, working independently as well as with a team and focus on the details. Ideal candidate is versed in the basic methods and practices of building and ground/landscaping maintenance and repair. Duties and Responsibilities Operates lawn mowers, weed eaters, chain saws and trimmers for various ground maintenance activities. Assist in the performance of minor repairs and routine maintenance on trucks, tractors, motorized machinery and attachments. Uses a variety of equipment, hand tools and power tools to perform assigned duties. Drives MDA vehicles for hauling tools, fuel, utility trailer and other equipment to job site. Assist with maintenance and cleaning task performed on all vehicles, equipment and maintenance shop. Performs minor building repairs and maintenance on MDA buildings. Loads, unloads and moves supplies, materials and equipment to and from work sites. Performs other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (Any item with an asterisk will be taught on the job) Ability to communicate with supervisor and co-workers. Ability to follow instructions. Skill to read and understand operator manuals, directives, procedures and instructions. Ability to follow verbal instructions. Skill to operate and do light maintenance on trucks and tractors. Working knowledge of safety rules including accident prevention.* Working knowledge of first-aid procedures.* Requirements: Must be able to perform all essential job functions. Must have and maintain a valid Alabama driver’s license with acceptable driving record. Must be able to work Monday – Friday from 7:00 am until 3:30 pm Willing to be prompt and prepared to work. Willing to comply with the following dress standards: neat personnel appearance with appropriate foot, head and hand gear. Clothing must be clean, without tears or holes. Physical Requirements Must have the vision, hearing, ability and dexterity necessary to operate motorize vehicles, equipment, tools and power tools. Must be able to bend, talk, walk, hear, sit, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb and stand for extended periods of time. Must be able to lift and move heavy objects. Must have the dexterity to sufficiently operate levers, gears, etc. Work Environment The work involves moderate risks or discomfort which require special safety precautions, e.g., working outdoors in various climatic conditions, working in areas with a variety of wildlife; working around moving parts, carts or machines; working with various saws, blades and power tools and working on ladders to make repairs. Experience Five (5)+ years of experience in grounds maintenance is preferred. How to Apply Apply in person between 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday or email your application to info@exploremcclellan.com . McClellan Development Authority  4975 Bains Gap Road, Anniston, AL 36205 Last day to apply is September 18, 2024 Click VIEW APPLICATION at the top of the article for a copy of the application.

The McClellan Development Authority (MDA) is excited to announce the listing of three prime commercial sites in the bustling Town Center area of McClellan. These sites are perfect for retail, dining, or lodging developers looking to join a thriving community of businesses. The MDA recently welcomed McClellan Sports & Outdoors , the first traditional retail store at McClellan, at their grand opening on June 18, 2024. Offering premiere sporting goods, workout gear, fitness apparel and more, owner Kristin Laymon hopes to become " the go-to place for the athletic community to get their outdoor and sporting goods needs." McClellan Sports & Outdoors joined the ranks of other popular businesses and community landmarks in the area, including OneWorld Pet Resort, the Anniston Aquatic and Fitness Center, Longleaf Primary Care, Creedmoor Sports, Cane Creek Community Gardens, McClellan Multi-Use Trails, and the Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy. These places attract thousands of visitors each year, making Town Center a vibrant and dynamic location for new commercial ventures. The newly listed parcels from the MDA offer an excellent opportunity to benefit from this existing traffic and further contribute to the area's growth: The Town Center Commercial Parcel 2 abuts the creek beside McClellan Sports & Outdoors and faces the Medical Mall. It features a large existing parking lot and utility access. The total property spans approximately 9 acres. The Halifax Commercial Parcel 1 is located between Arris Construction and Creedmoor Sports. It is approximately 4.7 acres and includes utility access. The Halifax Commercial Parcel 2 is approximately 9 acres, located between the MDA and Medical Mall. It is primarily flat, with few trees, and includes utility access. For those interested in exploring these opportunities, property tours are available upon request. Please contact MDA Executive Director Julie Moss at (256) 236-2011 ext. 3 for additional information.

Lake Yahou Park has been tapped as the designated "Forest School" for the upcoming academic year of the Anniston, Alabama chapter of Barefoot University (BU), a country-wide outdoor education initiative designed to connect homeschool students to nature and each other. Katlyen Helton and Laura Chenoweth (pictured together left), local moms who chose the homeschool path for their children, are leading this new chapter of the hands-on program, hoping to bring the benefits of outdoor student-led learning to other homeschooling families in the area. "As parents, we feel like children are being hindered by too much access to technology at too young of an age and many are not able to experience and appreciate nature in a way that’s developmentally appropriate," said Helton. "We hope that by providing this new group to others, we are helping foster a sense of wonderment, independence, and appreciation we see in our own children when we get them outside in nature." Barefoot University was initially started in 2019 by Amber Brown and Madeleine Braden, who sought an outdoor alternative to their children's learning. The program has since expanded to over 20 states. This Anniston initiative joins other Alabama Barefoot University chapters in Gadsden, Jasper, Tuscaloosa, and Springville. When scouting locations for their BU Forest School, Helton and Chenoweth prioritized finding a site deeply immersed in nature while remaining accessible to as many families in the area as possible. Tucked away in the woods with convenient highway access, McClellan's Lake Yahou Park emerged as the perfect setting for their curriculum. Helton explained that by choosing Lake Yahou Park, she and Chenoweth "hope to provide a top-notch nature experience for Barefoot University students," citing the lake's natural beauty and access to the McClellan trail system as additional factors in their decision. *Photos from the Barefoot University interest meeting on May 15, 2024 Although the final curriculum is not yet set for this Anniston chapter, Barefoot University is structured into different yearly "rhythms" with activities corresponding to each theme. Rhythm Earth focuses on geology, botany, zoology, foraging, earth sciences, minerals, fossils, and soil studies; Rhythm Fire explores survival skills, first aid, orienteering, outdoor safety, self-reliance, and physical skills; Rhythm Water covers physics, marine life, reptiles & amphibians, water habitats, rain, erosion, and movement; and Rhythm Sky delves into astronomy, meteorology, environmental and space sciences, winged life, and flight. The program also aims to develop children in four key areas: cognitive, emotional, physical, and social. Although students are not separated by age, each age group's learning insights generally build upon the foundation of the previous. Ages 5-8 focus on exploration and observation; ages 9-13 on analysis and navigation; and ages 18+ on application and independence. Julie Moss, Executive Director of the McClellan Development Authority, said, "Barefoot University is a very unique program for our area, and we’re thrilled the chapter leaders chose Lake Yahou Park for their Forest School this fall. We hope our beautiful lake and park will foster a love of nature and sense of adventure in Barefoot University students." The Lake Yahou Park Forest School plans to meet every Wednesday at 9 a.m. beginning in September. The deadline for families to enroll in Barefoot University is June 30, 2024. If interested, contact Katlyen Helton at katlyenh@gmail.com. To learn more about Barefoot University, you can visit their Facebook page or website.

ANNISTON, Ala—The McClellan Development Authority (MDA) will be paving the drives and parking lot at Lake Yahou Park using an asphalt mixture modified with recycled tire rubber derived from tire scraps as the recipient of a $653,424.12 grant from Alabama Department of Environmental Management. The project will be contracted to Wiregrass Construction Company, Inc. and will include a six-year evaluation from the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) at Auburn University. “We are honored to be among the first in the state of Alabama to receive this grant for rubber-modified asphalt,” said Julie Moss, MDA Executive Director. “The MDA is always looking for ways to improve Lake Yahou Park, and this grant will make a huge impact in the park’s vehicle accessibility. We’re looking forward to working with Wiregrass Construction this spring and extend many thanks to ADEM for making this opportunity possible.” The technology behind this paving project offers a host of benefits for Lake Yahou Park visitors. The tire-modified asphalt is not only environmentally conscious but also boasts reduced tire wear and a quieter, safer driving experience due to improved traction. The rubber-modified asphalt stands out amongst traditional asphalt in its durability, lasting longer and withstanding potholes and cracking. “What makes this project unique is our construction approach of using two different types of asphalt on the road,” said Brandon Owens, Vice President of Operations at Wiregrass. “One side will be paved with Superpave asphalt, while the other side will be paved with Ground Tire Rubber asphalt.” By utilizing both types of asphalt on the same main drive in and out of Lake Yahou Park, Wiregrass Construction will ensure equal traffic distribution, facilitating an accurate comparison between the two surfaces throughout NCAT’s six-year study. Carolina Rodezno, Associate Research Professor from the National Center for Asphalt Technology, said, “Projects like this [at McClellan] will allow the asphalt industry to gain experience with construction and performance to add to our knowledge base with rubber modified asphalt and support future implementation efforts.” Owens added, “At Wiregrass Construction, we believe in the importance of reusing waste materials to create a more sustainable infrastructure. We are honored to be a part of this initiative and look forward to its positive impact.” The project began February 26, 2024. The full paving process will require Lake Yahou Park to be closed for approximately four weeks, dependent on weather, and advanced notice of the closures will be given on the MDA’s Facebook page.

On the morning of Tuesday, August 16, a representative from Davis Fish Farms arrived at Lake Yahou with a truckload of aquatic inhabitants: 3,200 Coppernose bluegill, 800 channel catfish, and 20 grass carp. This delivery marked the initial phase of a plan to uphold the health and vibrancy of Lake Yahou, guided by the recommendations of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR). In the summer of 2019, the 8-acre lake welcomed 800 bass, as well as bluegill and minnows, as part of its aquatic community. However, a year after Lake Yahou Park's grand opening to the public in 2022, the McClellan Development Authority (MDA) decided it was time to take advantage of the free lake testing performed by the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of ADCNR. On May 9, 2023, biologists carried out an electrofishing survey, using mild electric currents to temporarily immobilize a population of fish for study. This method, coupled with water sample analysis, painted a clear picture of the lake's ecosystem to biologists, who proposed a scientific approach to improve the lake's vegetal habitat and ecological balance in an official report for the MDA. The results of the survey offered practical solutions such as distributing agricultural limestone to regulate water pH (a process known as liming) and launching a fertilization program aimed at stimulating plankton growth and maintaining water clarity within a desired range of 18-24 inches. Additionally, biologists suggested stocking grass carp and channel catfish to enrich Lake Yahou's aquatic food chain. Under the ADCNR's advice, the MDA initiated this biology-based program, beginning with the introduction of carp and catfish (and more bite-size bluegill for the bass to eat) this week. In the spring, they plan to spread agricultural limestone, followed by fertilization in the summer of 2024—a pragmatic approach to freshwater fishing sustainability that reinforces Lake Yahou's health and quality just as much as its scenic beauty. Lake Yahou Park is currently catch-and-release only, but, as the fish mature, the MDA plans to allow select harvest days, another ADCNR suggestion. A $5 permit is required to fish at Lake Yahou, which can be purchased from the MDA office at 4975 Bains Gap Road, Anniston, AL.

"The 'best' are our first responders, those willing to risk their lives for the safety and security of fellow Americans. The 'worst' is man-made and natural disasters that can strike anywhere, at any time," explained Richard Brewer, Director of External Affairs at the Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP), to myself and McClellan Development Authority Executive Director Julie Moss in a large boardroom at the CDP headquarters on the morning of Tuesday, November 14, 2023. We had connected with Brewer the month before with the hopes of writing a feature piece about the CDP's national training operations which are headquartered at McClellan, but he offered something even better which we couldn't pass up—a personal tour of their campus, which began, like all organizational overviews, with an introductory presentation. The genesis of the Center for Domestic Preparedness traces back to the harrowing Sarin nerve agent attack in Tokyo by the Aum Shinrikyo terrorist cult in 1995, which spurred an overwhelming demand for civilian responder training in the United States to be prepared to handle similar crises domestically. The next year, the Nunn-Lugar-Domenici Domestic Preparedness program was started as part of the Defense Against Weapons of Mass Destruction Act, allowing first responders to train at the U.S. Army Chemical School at Fort McClellan. Brewer explained, "When the base was slated for closure, some very smart people suggested they keep training first responders here," and the Center for Domestic Preparedness was born. The CDP's presence at McClellan has not only repurposed many of Fort McClellan's claims to fame (like the Noble Army Hospital and former Chemical School buildings), but has also brought a $255 million annual economic impact to Calhoun County. Following the briefing, Brewer showed us a map of their campus, which comprises over 50 buildings spread across 186 acres and three primary training sites: the ARTC, COBRATF, and Noble Training Facility. The ARTC (Advanced Responder Training Complex), which is currently undergoing major upgrades and renovations, prepares responders to deal with commonplace hazards, including an industrial park, a mock subway station, and a simulated street scene with businesses. [Photos feature live training sessions at the ARTC on the simulated street scene and subway] The COBRATF (Chemical, Ordnance, Biological and Radiological Training Facility) is where civilian responders receive hands-on training to effectively respond to real-world incidents involving chemical, biological, explosive, radiological, and other hazardous materials. There, Gary Milner, Assistant Director of Training of the COBRATF walked us through the various training settings within the mock town of Fisherville, including an apartment, a bar, a commercial kitchen, and more. He also showed us the training bays where responders train with actual toxic biological materials and chemical agents to gain confidence in both their skills and the personal protective equipment they wear when responding to hazardous material incidents. The training at the COBRATF is the only of its kind in the nation, with advanced security measures and rigorous safety protocols that Milner says has helped sustain their long-standing record of zero exposures. [Photos feature live training sessions at COBRATF, a display of the various Hazmat suits used in training, and an aerial view of the mock town of Fisherville] Our tour next led us to the Noble Training Facility just past 11 am, when the mock hospital environment was in full swing, with nursing students, EMTs, instructors, and technical staff bustling about; yet the chaos was structured and intentional, and resembled everything about an operational hospital except for real-life patients. The setting of this specialized medical response training could not be more appropriate, as the facility was once the Noble Army Hospital during Fort McClellan's operation, serving everyone from privates to generals and their families for over 40 years. Today, the Noble Training Facility is the only hospital facility in the nation dedicated solely to training healthcare professionals in disaster preparedness and mass casualty response, featuring exercises with ambulances and role-players, involving more than 100 patients who must be triaged. [Photos feature live training scenarios at the Noble Training Facility, prop wounds/bodily fluids, and the room of training dummies] Since 1998, the CDP has trained more than 1,400,000 state, local, tribal, and territorial responders through various means, including 51 hands-on courses, 64 virtual instructor-led courses, 14 totally online courses, and several microlearning courses accessible via YouTube. Plus, all training is federally funded at no cost to the trainees. "It's an astounding experience to get this firsthand look of the state-of-the-art training taking place at the CDP training sites," said MDA Executive Director Julie Moss. "We are thrilled to know so many responders from across the United States visit our beautiful community to better protect the nation from disasters." We extend a huge thank you to Richard Brewer and Gary Milner for lending their time and sharing their expertise during our tour of the Center for Domestic Preparedness, as well as the 1,000+ CDP employees who spend each day 'training the best for the worst.' You can keep up with the CDP's training initiatives on their Facebook page, and learn more about their training opportunities at cdp.dhs.gov/training.