A Dawn of a New Day at Crystal Lakes — Lipstick & Reels
- Jay Luis
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
By Jaime Grafton --
A new day rises over Crystal Lakes, and after last night’s rain‑kissed celebration, our hearts couldn’t be any fuller. Ten years ago, four women sat around a picnic table at the beach — laughing, reminiscing, and dreaming up something different.
That spark became a tournament just for women. And because some of our ladies wouldn’t be caught in public without their lipstick — let alone touching a fish or bait — the name practically chose itself: Lipstick & Reels.
A Night Written in Thunder & Triumph
Storms circled us. But our ladies? They didn’t flinch.
Volunteers stood at the beach, phones in hand, watching the radar like hawks to ensure everyone stayed safe. A few raindrops fell — but not a single spirit wavered.
Eighty entries, with two ladies running in at the last minute to register. Eighty women spread across South Lake, Main Lake, North Lake, and Hidden Lake — a sight that would make any community proud.
And then came the story of the night: Brian Langford reported that Ms. Linda Burba was deep in the woody back trails of Hidden Lake — weaving through low branches, climbing over logs, determined to catch her catfish. Her agility, grit, and pure joy will be a tale told for generation
The Numbers Tell the Story
Most Fish Caught — 380 fish
Caught, weighed, and returned safely to the lake.
Biggest Fish Category — 125 lbs total
Top Contenders — Most Fish
Brittney Langford — 61 fish
Willow Hymer — 41 fish
Lisa Duncan — 40 fish
Top Contenders — Most Weight
Brandy Ewen — 40 lbs. 6 oz
Madison Smith — 24 lbs 6 oz
Stonzie — 8 lbs 2 oz
George, Brian, and Brian were hopping all night — driving their golf cart round and round the lakes, weighing, counting, cheering. And every time they returned to the beach to report the stats, they wore the biggest smiles. Pride looks good on them.
A Feast at the Beach
TJ Burke cooked for all of us — pulled pork, southern‑style green beans, and coleslaw. The green beans? A hit. Several ladies asked for the recipe.
In the kitchen beside him was Frank Butcher, serving with the same kindness and warmth we’ve come to love.
The best part? TJ and Frank said they’d love to come back next year. TJ even teased a new menu idea: Chicken Carbonaro — cooking is his language of love.
Door Prizes Overflowing with Generosity
Sixty‑four members donated gifts — many giving more than one. The prize table was overflowing. We were able to go around twice. That is generosity at its finest.
Local businesses stepped up too:
J&L Meats
Grizzley Fence
Calla’s Salon
Copey’s Butcher Shop
Rustic Wheel
O’Riley
Richie’s Drive Thru
MLC Photography
Abe’s
Auto Zone
Fix All Auto
Old Towne Automotive
Grand Prizes
Delany Parks, age 13 — won the meat bundle from J&L Meats
Dana Parks — won the kayak from Old Towne Automotive
Delany winning the meat bundle was adorable — she may not cook it herself, but she sure can have Dad grill it and invite her friends.
Photos Coming Soon
Ms. Gibson a sweet young photographer with the most awesome personality
captured the night — those pictures will be posted later. We thank her deeply.
Behind the Scenes Heroes
A heartfelt thank‑you to:
The Parks Family
Christy Butler
The Haywood Family
Lee Handwerker
Michelle Robbins
And to every volunteer who stepped up — this night would not have happened without you.
If anyone was missed, please know it wasn’t intentional. Your efforts mattered.
Looking Forward to Next Year
Ten years ago, Lipstick & Reels was just an idea. Last night, it was a legacy. Next year? It will be even bigger, even brighter, even more unforgettable. Please, if you have a story – share – if you have a picture – share – We are together – Becoming One
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