Lake Martin Living February 2018

Lake Martin Living People, events and culture in the Lake Region

Millennials Are Moving Here On Purpose Gala To Honor Dr. John Blythe

February 2018

www.lakemartinmagazine.com

Lake Martin Living 1

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From the Editor’s Desk

O

nce in a while, we are given the opportunity to be part of something awesome. I think that is what I loved the most about Alexander City when I landed here six years ago. It was a town on the edge of greatness. There was so much enthusiasm for the future, so much vision and promise and hope.

As managing editor of the magazine division at TPI, I have a mezzanine seat to a lot of what’s happening here – the new and growing businesses, the civic involvement, the celebrations of accomplishments. And my part in the picture is that I get to tell you about them, every month, in these pages.

This month, we kick off the content with the latest retail change on Main Street. Alabama Makers Market has changed hands and relaunched as Makers Market on Main under the ownership of Barbara Thompson. We’re excited about what that means for local shoppers, so we talked with Barbara and got the scoop, which we share with you on page 10.

Shopping local is a conviction of the 20- and 30-somethings who have made Alexander City home. The millennial generation is committed to smalltown life and playing a part in the success of the entrepreneur. That population is growing in this corner of heaven, and this month, Amy Passaretti shares some the reasons why. Her article about millennials moving in on page 24 highlights what the town is doing to attract the future entrepreneurs, as well as what the newest residents want to add to the quality of life here.

But that enthusiasm for the future of Alexander City isn’t new.

As Jacob Meacham observes in Amy’s millennial article, previous generations have provided a solid foundation for growth.

Dr. John C. Blythe has played an important part in laying that foundation. Blythe, a native of Alexander City who after college returned home as an oncologist, will be honored Feb. 24 for his contributions to the community when the Russell Medical Foundation hosts its annual gala ball at Willow Point Country Club. Learn more about Dr. Blythe, his love for his hometown and the scholarship fund that will bear his name on page 20.

It’s everywhere I look – this growth and enthusiasm for community.

It encompasses all ages. You can see that in the activities represented in the Oh Snap! photo section starting on page 31 of this magazine. From retirees to pre-school kids, there are opportunities to be involved, to make a difference, to be part of it.

Part of something awesome.

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor

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Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Assistant Magazine Editor Amy Passaretti Contributors Dave Jennings Luke Robinson Fred Muenzmay Cliff Williams Mitch Sneed Donald Campbell Susan Foy Jim Littman Carmen Rodgers Magazine Distribution Manager David Kendrick Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Hallie Holloway Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Katie Wesson Scott Hardy Rebecca Carlisle Erin Burton Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com

Lake Martin Living is published monthly

by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

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24

Millennials Lindsay and Jacob Meacham stroll down Main Street with their son Jack.

IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 10. BUSINESS MATTERS 14. HAPPY GARDEN 18. FROM THE TEE 30. MONEY MATTERS 31. OH SNAP! 36. LAKE REGION EVENTS 39. MEDICAL NEWS 46. THE LAST WORD

FEATURES 20. GALA HONOREE R ussell Medical Foundation will establish a medical scholarship to honor the area's first oncologist, Dr. John C. Blythe 23. TO KILL A PREACHER E . Paul Jones' nonfiction book, based on the suspicious deaths of family members of the late Rev. William Maxwell, will be available next month 24. MOVED HERE ON PURPOSE W riter Amy Passaretti explores the influx of millennials to the local area 6 Lake Martin Living

ON THE COVER

Alexander City’s first oncologist, Dr. John C. Blythe was named the honoree at this year’s Russell Medical Foundation Gala, to be held Feb. 24 at Willow Point Golf and Country Club. The formal event will raise funds for a medical scholarship in Blythe’s name.

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AROUND THE AREA

Local pet rescue prompts donation The story of Adler, a German Shepherd that won the hearts of local residents after he was revived by firefighters last month, led to the donation of 15 pet rescue kits to the Alexander City Fire Department.

A California-based nonprofit group, Air for Paws, sent the pet oxygen mask kits to make similar rescues easier if the situation ever arises again.

“We are so thankful to have these,” ACFD’s Todd Sassano said. “We were fortunate with Adler that we had enough people there to spend the time to get a tube in and intubate him. That may not always be the case. After that day, we started looking around to see what was out there and the cost associated with them.

“Not too long ago we worked a call with the folks at Kowaliga Volunteer Fire Department where they had a kit, and we were able to get the information. We contacted them and they were like, ‘How many do you need?’”

Pet Rescue Kits on Emergency Vehicles

Air for Paws donated a pet resuscitation kit for each ACFD vehicle after learning of firefighters' dogged attempt to save a family pet during a house fire. Adler (right) received treatment at Auburn University and now is recovering at home.

~ Mitch Sneed

Tallassee turns back time vintage vibe. The opening show, Dear Mama: Letters and Music from World War II, sold out for three performances, filling every one of the 750 seats in the downtown theater on Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoon.

Outside, classic cars lined the road in front of the historic building, as the marquee announced the production and patrons dressed for the celebration.

The production, written by Adrian Lee Borden, featured speeches, letters and songs from the WWII era. Some of the typescripts were local characters that lived and worked in Tallassee during WWII. The $725,000 renovation of the theater included the building of a full stage with fly and wing space, the addition of dressing rooms and the restoration of some of the building's original finishes, including the ceramic tile in the lobby.

Memorabilia from its heyday as the local movie house decorates the lobby area, and a painting of a film reel on the lobby wall acts as tribute to contributors who helped to make the renovation possible.

During the reopening ceremony, the Mt. Vernon Theatre Board honored Jan Autery, who labored Mt. Vernon Theatre reopens in downtown Tallassee after closing 50 years ago for years to bring the project to fruition.

Vintage cars lined up in front of the refurbished Mt. Vernon Theatre for its ~ Carmen Rodgers and Betsy Iler grand reopening on Friday, Jan. 21.

After 50 years, the footlights came up again at Tallassee’s Mt. Vernon Theatre on Barnett Boulevard when the historic movie house reopened Jan. 21 as a state-of-the-art playhouse with a

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Makers Market on Main STORY & PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER

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ashville native Barbara Thompson last month picked up on a shop-local trend when she purchased Alabama Street Makers Market from Elizabeth Roberts, who started the handmade merchandise store on Alexander City’s Alabama Street several years ago.

Thompson, who moved here 16 years ago and has worked in local retail for more than six of them, said she would expand the store’s inventory to include handmade goods from across the South.

More than a gift store or boutique, Makers Market on Main features quality handmade toys, clothes, art, food, furniture, pottery and more.

“Vendors have actually Barbara Thompson made everything in the store,” Thompson explained.

She carries the works of two dozen or more vendors, including Annie Bartol, John Denney, Doug Roberts, Stephan Tomlin’s Northlake Crafted items, Yvonne Fields, Gourmet Tiger and more.

Customers can even drop by Makers Market on Main to pick up dinner, as frozen dishes and casseroles are among some of the store’s most popular items.

“People come by to pick up frozen foods to take to friends who have had babies or to take for funerals. Or if they have company coming in and don’t want to spend time making the meals,” she said.

In addition, Thompson carries the entire line of New Water Farms products, along with Wickles Pickles and a variety of breading and baking mixes. Her gourmet offerings also include gluten-free mixes.

Homemade The wooden toys sell well as Left: From artwork to birthday and holiday gifts, she said. yummy frozen meals, There are wooden cars, trucks and everything at Makers castles, figurines and Noah’s Arks Market on Main is homemade. on the toy display, and Thompson Lake Martin Living 11

said they are among the fastest sellers in the shop. of designs and show customers how to screen print their “The pottery is very popular, too, and our potters will even own shirts. And very soon, she hopes to set up knitting and make custom pieces for our customers. Brides can order an crocheting classes. entire set of custom handmade dishes or special pieces to “That’s something that a lot of people ask for,” Thompson coordinate with items in the store,” Thompson said. "Our said. potters, Jodi and Mike from Birmingham and Janice Plaxco, She also wants to give her customers more opportunities to are happy to work with brides to complete their registries.” meet the vendors who stock the store. On March 3, she’ll host While the store does occasionally purchase items to be a pop-up shop with New Water Farms and Yum Yum Foods. sold, most of the inventory is stocked on a consignment basis Even children will have opportunities to make and sell after a selection and approval process. wares at Makers Market on Main, she said.

“When someone comes in with some samples of items “We’ll have a creative corner for kids. We have some really they’d like to sell here, I take talented people in this the samples to an approval/ area, and their children selection board for a decision. are really talented, too.

Their input is very helpful.

It’s a good thing for Sometimes, the approval board them to develop some has ideas I might not have entrepreneurial skills come up with,” she said. early,” she said.

Thompson said the board In Tennessee, helps her to make sure new Thompson managed inventory complements other the transportation items in the store. schedule for Nashville “And we do look for a Auto Auction. She first certain fit. Beachy things, for worked in retail when example, don’t do real well in she took a job at a our store, but the lake items fly dress shop on Alabama off the shelves,” she said.

Street.

“We’re also a place where “I loved it right from new businesses can sell their the start,” she said. “I products. That’s very helpful to watched from behind them, especially when they are the scenes and learned just getting started.” about working with One of reasons she chose to vendors and displaying purchase the store when the items and working with previous owner was ready to the public.” sell, Thompson said, is that she When Alabama wanted to be part of the new Street Makers Market entrepreneurial vibe. moved into the space “Young people today are not the dress shop had afraid to start businesses. Some occupied, Thompson of them have full time jobs and stayed with the location. are trying to run a business on And when the makers the side, and I like that I can market moved to Main help them get started,” she said.

Street, she went with it.

She often learns about new “Everything fell into vendors from conversations place for the purchase with her customers who may of the store. I knew Benches, Quilts, Canes and Pictures New owner Barbara Thompson plans to expand the vendor know of artists or craftsmen the vendors and the base to include makers from across the South. that would consider putting customers, and when items in the store. In particular, Elizabeth was ready she’s looking for someone who makes pet treats, as well as to sell it, I didn’t want someone else to take it over. I wanted artists, jewelers, frame makers and candle makers. it, and I have a lot of support from my family and friends in “People come up with the greatest ideas that I would have doing it,” said Thompson. never thought of,” she added. “And if you don’t see it in the Makers Market on Main’s winter hours at 33 Main St. are store, ask us. We know vendors who can make it for you.”

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays Pet portraits and furniture are among the items Thompson and Fridays; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. The store has helped broker for customers. will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays To promote the creative spirit, Thompson also will offer from spring through fall. For more information, visit the DIY workshops.

Makers Market on Main Facebook page or call Thompson at On April 14, Northlake Crafted will provide a choice 256-392-5555.

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Lake Martin Living 13

Forcing Spring

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Happy Garden

t was the end of December, and I was instructions on the packaging. If bulbs were having one of those days like we all have, not pre-chilled prior to purchasing, they will looking for some sun that wasn’t there need to be placed in a garage or other cool and hoping to hear birds singing – even a place where the temperatures are below 50 crow caw would have been nice. degrees Fahrenheit for approximately six Well, that did not happen. weeks.

I rummaged around looking for last year’s Planting bulbs in pots or glass containers is flower bulbs, and I could not find any. I a great way to add spring color to the garden, remembered reading an article about planting porch, patio or living room. This adds color flower bulbs in the winter in containers to and fragrance, as well as beautiful flowers. have early spring colors in the house.

Like making cookies, planting indoor bulbs The idea sounded very good, so I put on can feel like a chore, but the results are worth my jacket and headed for Alexander City and it. the garden shops.

There probably are a lot of ways to plant I found tulips, daffodil and hyacinth bulbs bulbs; I’ll show-and-tell two to get you started. in two locations and a few in starter pots for One method is to plant the bulbs into transplant into soil. potting soil with drainage, and the other is Fred Muenzmay I looked at the timetable of how long the in water in glass containers or non-draining bulbs might take to bloom and if they might containers. need to be in the refrigerator to get them cool for a month or two before planting them. Most prepared Add color indoors to brighten the winter landscape bulbs available on the market this time of the year have Facing page: A pink hyacinth breaks the dark winter been pre-chilled for planting and have had their cold with fragrance and color; Below: Tulips, daffodils and treatment. If they have not been pre-chilled, follow the crocus are easy and eager bulbs.

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Coax Early Blooms From Soil or Water With These Simple Methods

Above left: Plant the bulb pointed end up in a pot that allows 2 inches of soil under and over the bulb; Above right: To force in a vase, place the bulb on a bed of pebbles and add water to cover half of the bulbs.

Starting bulbs in potting soil You will need pre-chilled bulbs and a potting soil medium, not just peat moss. You also will need two containers: one with drainage holes and one without drainage holes. The containers could be about the same size, or the one without drainage holes could be larger than the one with drainage. You will not need any fertilizer. Flower bulbs are self-contained, meaning they contain all the energy needed to bloom. They only require warmth, water and sunlight.

For the container with drainage holes, select a container that is deep enough to put 2 inches of soil over the bulb and 2 inches under the bulb. They need the room because all bulbs have large root systems.

Inspect your bulbs and remove any loose outside sheathing from them before you start.

You will need to pre-soak your potting medium to ensure a moist bed for your bulbs.

To do this, measure into the container that does not have drainage holes enough potting soil to fill the container that does have drainage; then, add enough water to the soil to moisten it through.

Place 2 inches of damp soil into the container that has drainage holes; then, place one bulb on top of the soil with the root eye down and the pointed side up. Keep in mind that you want 2 inches of soil over the bulb; that determines how deep to plant the bulb.

You can add as many bulbs of different varieties as you like in one pot. Keeping them shoulder-to-shoulder right next to each other will give your blooms a full showy effect, but leave 1 inch between the bulbs and the sides of the container.

When you are finished placing the bulbs, add 2 inches of moist soil on top of them.

Place the potted plants in a warm area and be patient.

The soil needs to remain moist, so check it often and add a little water when it just begins to dry out.

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Growing bulbs in a glass container This method of forcing flower bulbs is more enjoyable to watch, as you can see the flower as it grows from the bulb and turns into a beautiful flower. This is a great project for children of all ages.

You will need pre-chilled bulbs for this method as well.

You also will need a glass container that is at least 12 inches tall and has a 3- to 6-inch mouth at the top. This vase size will accommodate tulips or daffodils, which have long stems and need some side support.

In addition, you will need to select a medium in which the bulbs will rest. Pebbles, glass beads or colored glass pebbles are good choices.

Clean the container and rinse it well.

Place a layer of medium on the bottom of the container.

You may need to use a serving tong to arrange the stones or pebbles in the container. The shape of the container’s bottom will determine the number of stones you use.

Fill the container with enough water to cover the stones.

Place the bulbs on the stones. Be sure to place them with the pointed side up and root eye down. If there is room in the container, you could include more than one bulb. They may be placed touching, as they are able to move about, but keep bulbs from touching the sides of the container.

Fill the container with just enough water to cover half of the bulbs, allowing air around the top half of the bulbs.

That’s it! Place the vase in a warm place near a window, and check the bulbs daily to maintain the water level at halfway covering the bulbs. Be patient. Some growth usually starts to take place in one week or two, and it can be fun to measure their progress once they start. ~ Fred Muenzmay of Eagle’s Roost Herb Farms is a Master Gardener and has been in the business of growing organic herbs, vegetables and blueberries for regional and local farmers markets for 27 years. Email him at fmuenzmay@ earthlink.net.

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Winter Golf

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No loft, no roll but wide open tee times

es’m, it has been some kinda’ cold this year for us Alabamians. December and January threw more snow at us than we’ve seen in years. I am sorry, but I am just not a fan. Give me a reason to sweat, though, and I’m all in. This year I’ve been guilty of wearing up to six layers to team practice: two pair of socks, long johns, slacks and rain pants. Oh yea, don’t forget the beanie cap. With all this insulation, my golf swing gets shorter and shorter, which leads to less and less clubhead speed and shorter golf shots.

Not only are we bundled up like crazy, but also, the fairways have been softer too – no roll. On top of all that, with colder air, the golf ball just does not fly as far as it does in the warmer months.

What does this add up to? A whole lot of fun golf.

Huh? Yes, really! Right now, traffic to get a tee time has slowed; the greens are putting like Augusta National; and all in all, 18 Lake Martin Living

the course is in beautiful condition. So, tee it up!

In July, finishing off a round of golf with a cold beverage is heaven. In the months of January and February, a large cup of hot chocolate finds a whole new level of goodness.

Golf at this time of year gives you time to work on shots that you’ll appreciate when the trees begin to bud in March.

In the winter, we tend to hit more long irons and fairway woods than we did in the summertime.

By the time the thermometer hits the 60s, 70s and 80s with regularity, those longer shots into greens won’t seem quite as intimidating. Another benefit is that with the grass totally asleep (dormant), there is much less grain found on the greens, and they roll much truer and faster than when they are growing in the summer. This is a fantastic time to build a solid stroke, as well as an opportunity to raise your putting confidence.

As things warm up (and they will) and you drop off some of those layers of outwear, expect to regain a little

more clubhead speed in your swing. Your golf ball will had slipped down to a number that no longer had me in the begin to fly noticeably farther with each 10-degree jump stiff shaft category. I then reluctantly swung the same clubs toward the warmer side of life. The breezes that will be with a regular flex shaft, and the performance numbers coming in March and April will surely firm up jumped through the roof. Yes, I ordered the the fairways, and the ball will roll a bit farther, driver; and the next day, I ordered all new too, for most of us – that’s a good thing. The shafts in regular flex for the remaining clubs in secret to playing good golf in the spring is not my bag. to wait until beautiful weather arrives to break I am happy to report that the shaft flex out the clubs. Tee it up now, so you’re sharp change for me was a good decision. I had when the good weather comes. noticed over the past year that I was having That’s my pick-me-up pep talk for golfers more trouble turning the ball over to a slight suffering with cabin fever from the colder draw, and many of my shots that I expected to temperatures; now, here’s some homework fly straight were actually fading somewhat and advice for this month: Get with your golf flying shorter. The shaft change allowed my professional and ask for some honest advice golf shot pattern to return to a slight draw, and on shafts.

I can still control the trajectory and hit a fade I had a rude awakening this year when I when needed. I even picked up a few yards, was being fitted for a new driver. too.

Years ago, when I played all the time, was I highly suggest that you get with your pro Dave Jennings much younger and hit the ball much farther, and get on a launch monitor to be sure that my clubs had X-stiff shafts in them. My swing your golf clubs fit you properly. Changing was much longer, and I was a lot more athletic. shafts out of golf clubs is not as big of an When I turned 50, I changed all of my shafts to a stiff flex. undertaking as you might imagine. This change is also a lot This allowed for the club to work for me a bit more, as I less expensive than buying a new set. wasn’t playing and practicing as much and could not create I hope to see you on the golf course soon. If you’re all as much clubhead speed as I had during the previous 30 bundled up to keep warm and I don’t recognize you, I years. Well, as I was being fit for this new driver, I asked to apologize now, but please wave, I will wave back. use a launch monitor to see if one driver model performed better than the other from the same manufacturer. ~ Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach at Central Alabama To my heartbroken surprise, my clubhead and ball speed Community College.

From the Tee

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Man of Honor Russell Medical Foundation to establish scholarship as tribute to Alexander City's Dr. John Blythe

STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTOS COURTESY OF BILL BLYTHE AND SUSAN FOY

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ussell Medical Foundation Feb. 24 will honor Alexander City native Dr. John C. Blythe at a gala event to be held at Willow Point Golf and Country Club. The ball will celebrate the 35-year medical ministry of the area’s first University of Alabama Hospital and Clinics oncologist and will raise funds to establish a medical scholarship in Blythe’s name.

Blythe was a local kid who grew up on Clay Street and graduated Benjamin Russell High School. He left his hometown and headed to Baylor University in Waco, Texas, to major in religious studies with minors in English and history. After graduating Baylor, he attended Southern Baptist Theological Seminary for a year and a half before changing disciplines from ministry to medicine.

“Some people need to be caregivers, and I think I am one of those. I felt a calling to it,” Blythe said. “I think I kind of wanted to be a doctor all along.”

The seed for his life’s work might have been planted in a university science class. As a student with no car and nowhere to go, he spent his time studying and made very good grades, but he was nervous when the instructor asked him to stay after class one day.

“I was afraid they would think I was cheating,” Blythe laughed. “But the professor told me he was the pre-med advisor, and if I was interested in medicine, he could help me get in. I think, after that, it was on my mind to do it.”

Blythe was the first oncology graduate at the school that today is known Always Smiling as UAB, and after a Facing page: Dr. John C. Blythe brief stint working in the field with son Bill; Below: there, he came home Self-dubbed the Old Shad's to Alexander City and Doctors Club, Blythe meets established an internal with Dr. Lloyd Warr (center) medicine practice with and Dr. Frank Burns (right) and others for lunch once a month. a particular passion

for cancer patients.

“There were two researchers at Southern Research Institute at the time who were curing cancer in rats, and I thought that would surely transfer over to curing humans.

It was cutting edge, and I wanted to be part of that,” Blythe said.

Not many treatments were available for cancer in the mid-1970s, but as more were developed and became available, Blythe was able to make a difference for his patients.

“There were only a few tumors that responded to treatment at the time, but then, hormone treatments became available, and there were some other non-chemo treatments that gave a good response. Treatments became better and better, and we had better knowledge,” said Blythe.

Modern communications technology played a big part in the progress, he said.

“There was not the communication available then that we have now. To learn more about a treatment, I could read a journal or make a phone call, but that was about it then.

Computers and the internet have made it easier to get the latest information and learn about the new treatments,” he said.

To develop a network of colleagues who could share knowledge and discuss treatment options, Blythe joined with other practicing physicians in forming the Alabama Society of Clinical Oncology, which became the Alabama Cancer Congress.

“It was a sub-specialty organization. We would get together annually and network together as practicing doctors. There was a group of researchers and doctors in Birmingham, but I was out here without those resources,” said Blythe. “There was a big need then for an organization of doctors in practice – not in research – to stay up to date.”

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Blythe wrote a regular column in The Alexander City Outlook for a time. His essays focused on healthcare, family and community matters. He wrote of his own father’s death from cancer; he explained the need for funds to further research that could result in treatments and cures.

He visited classrooms and encouraged elementary school children in their studies. He saw such community outreach as an extension of his faith and his medical mission.

Blythe’s was a vocational medical career from a time when doctors were on call 24/7, saw patients at late hours and rarely took vacations. He came home late and left early, and his dedication to his patients frequently meant missing his children’s school programs, birthday celebrations and holidays.

“Medicine is a severe mistress. It demands a lot from you,” he said.

For Blythe, medicine was as much ministry as it was science. Taking care of people was the answer to a call, and his was a faithful service.

“It was spiritual,” he said.

His concern for the whole human in his patients was just how he looks at life, Blythe said. He enjoyed his work.

But Blythe also enjoyed spending time with his friends, his bird dogs and his family. An avid hunter and conservationist, he collected volumes of tales in the field, and his children enjoyed listening to them.

At his wife’s urging, Blythe wrote some of the stories down and published them in a paperback titled The Last Hunt in Early County. At once humorous and heartwarming, with some truth in heartbreak, the book lends credit to his college writing studies, as well as his passion for the field.

A few years into Blythe's retirement, John Thames and 22 Lake Martin Living

Kelly Waldrop – who A Family Man Blythe (center, second had recently purchased from right) is the beloved Covey Rise Magazine – invited him to write more husband of Ruth, father of five and grandfather to 11. of his hunting stories in the pages of the upscale publication. Blythe was happy to oblige them and has regaled readers with tales of field days with his childhood hunting pal, Paul Farmer, adding freelance writer to the long list of his accomplishments.

Blythe was the first director at The UAB Cancer Center at Russell Medical and during his 35 years of practice, he received numerous honors and accepted positions on boards that impacted medical knowledge and practice.

He was named a Fellow of the American College of Physicians in 2002. He also served as Assistant Professor at the University of South Alabama Department of Medicine.

Early in 2005, he retired from practice in Alexander City and joined the oncology division at Internal Medicine Associates in Opelika. He left that practice in late 2006 to enjoy life at The Settlement, the farm where he lives with his wife, Ruth, and a devoted bird dog. Blythe and Ruth have five children and 11 grandchildren.

“Daddy Doc,” as he is known among his loved ones, said he is duly humbled by the honor of the foundation scholarship in his name, and he hopes it will provide assistance to local students who will carry on the medical mission that has been so much a part of his faithful service.

Tickets to the formal gala on Feb. 24 are $150 and are available from the Russell Medical Foundation office at 256-215-7459. Additional donations may be made to Russell Medical Foundation and mailed to the same at 3316 U.S. 280, Alexander City AL 35010.

To Kill a Preacher A tale of voodoo, insurance and death STORY BY DONALD CAMPBELL

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o Kill a Preacher is expected to publish next month, the author of the long-awaited book and former Tallapoosa County District Attorney E. Paul Jones told a Horizons Unlimited audience last month.

Known at The Voodoo Preacher, the Rev. William Maxwell was fatally shot at the funeral of a 16-year-old girl to whom he was related. The girl was the fifth relative of Maxwell’s to die mysteriously after the reverend had purchased life insurance policies covering them.

Jones became acquainted with the case as assistant district attorney for 12 years.

None of the late reverend’s family members ever got back in touch with him during the research for the book, he said.

Jones said he met Maxwell in the early 1970s during an investigation and described him as having a soft voice, yet being articulate with good posture and always wearing a black suit.

Stressing that To Kill a Preacher is a work of nonfiction, Jones said he couldn’t report things that were dreamed up. At the same time, he did include in his narrative some of the rumors that were brought out and reported on in the courtroom, as they are part of official court records.

“Remember though, in Alabama, a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court by a jury of their peers,” Jones said. “Rev. Maxwell was never convicted, so he is still presumed innocent.”

The story began when Maxwell’s first wife, Mary Lou, was found dead in a car on Highway 22 near Hillabee Creek on Aug. 4, 1970. The reverend was charged with first-degree murder and indicted on Aug. 15. The case was finally brought to trial in the fall of 1971, where Maxwell was found not guilty in his wife’s death, despite a witness stating she had seen him hitting Mary Lou earlier in the day before she died.

Maxwell later married Dorcas Anderson, who had been made a widow after her husband James’ death. Anderson also turned up dead in a car in September 1972, several months after Maxwell’s brother John was found dead in a car in Coosa County.

Two more people related to the reverend mysteriously died

over the next few years, the last of whom, 16-year old Shirley Ellington, was found dead underneath a car in 1977.

During Ellington’s funeral one week after her death, her adopted uncle, Robert Louis Burns, shot Maxwell in the funeral home. Burns was tried for murder and found not guilty by reason of mental defect.

While Maxwell was never found guilty for any of the five killings he was believed to have committed, the generous life insurance policies taken out on them would have given the reverend a motive for the killings. Further evidence came from statements by others who claimed Maxwell had approached them asking for their assistance in killing some of the individuals who had turned up dead.

Jones added that it should have been the iconic Alabama writer Harper Lee who wrote the Reverend Maxwell story, after having spent several months in Alexander City, going over the case files and interviewing many of the key figures in the story.

Lee passed away two years ago.

“The rumor was that Maxwell had a great deal of voodoo powers,” Jones said. “He was supposed to have chickens hanging in trees in his yard. One of the voodoo shops in New Orleans admitted Maxwell had been a customer there.”

Jones said he wrote the story because he thought it needed to be told.

“I didn’t write the book with the idea of making a bunch of money. I thought it was a story that needed to be told. I had access to documents and first-hand knowledge of the story.

I also had access, through a friend, to several of the criminal investigation files in the cases,” he said.

With the editing process for the book complete, Jones said, the final phase in publication is the cover art, which is currently being developed. The paperback edition of the book will be available from Page Publishing at $16.95 some time in March.

The book also will be available in hard cover for $30. Digital formats will also be offered, he said, and the book will be available through the publisher for publication on demand.

The book’s release will be announced in The Alexander City Outlook.

Lake Martin Living 23

Moved Here on Purpose Millennials establish roots to impact smalltown future STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS, AMY PASSARETTI, MITCH SNEED, CLIFF WILLIAMS & COURTESY OF MEGAN ADAMSON, ROBIN SIMMS AND LACEY HOWELL

O

pportunity. Community. Growth. Influence. Sense of belonging.

Whatever the reason that brought an influx of the millennial generation to Alexander City or encouraged many to return to their roots, there is an overwhelming consensus as to why they’ve stayed.

The pride, comfort, ownership and contentment young professionals often have for living in small towns on the verge of evolution is encouraging for the future of Alexander City.

The millennial generation is defined in various ways, depending on which study is read, but the broad range of individuals classified in this group are currently in their early 20s to mid or late 30s.

Many early studies of this generation predicted a strong sense of civic-mindedness, and that is overwhelmingly evident here.

“Through work and the community, I’ve been able to meet some great new people and get involved. I have the opportunity to serve and give back to the community, which is very important to me. I love making an impact when I can,” said John Hall, a fitness specialist with Russell Medical who moved here less than a year ago and is originally from Arab, Alabama.

This thread of involvement and influence is common among millennials who now call Alexander City home. Making an impact with civic organizations, buying local, working hard at their jobs and being involved with city government are just a few examples that make service worthwhile.

Jenni Roy moved to town from Dothan, Alabama, and now works as a ninth-grade English teacher at Dadeville High School.

After interning with Benjamin Russell High School during her undergraduate years at Auburn University, she knew she wanted to stay local based on the people she met and the opportunities available to young folks.

“You have to be very intentional about what you do and take advantage of every opportunity presented to you. Everyone is so eager about what Support the Town they’re doing in Clockwise from top left: Millennials town, it makes it fun enjoy the lake and local established to be a part of it,” said festivals; Strand Sessions was created Roy, who has been to engage young people in town; coming to the lake John Howell works in his Madwind area for a few years Craftsmen Studio; YP members plan now and has seen the and support local fundraisers, such as downtown grow. the annual Polar Plunge.

24 Lake Martin Living

26 Lake Martin Living

Jacob and Lindsay Meacham graduated from BRHS, went it lifts you up,” she added. to the University of Alabama, married and lived in Tuscaloosa Now, five years later, they both said there are so many great for almost 10 years. Though they had no set goal to move back things happening in town that they’d be crazy to leave. The to their hometown, the comfort of friends and family always initial fear of losing the culturally packed, vibrant sense that lingered in their minds, if the right opportunity ever came Birmingham once brought to them has been replaced with a along. When Jacob Meacham heard that the Alexander City sense of fulfillment and hope.

Chamber of Commerce was looking for a vice president of That same hope is what evoked a sense of passion in Bre business development, Smith when her husband that opportunity became Troy’s job relocated evident. The Meachams him from Winfield to came home in 2015.

Alexander City. While “It seemed like the Troy is originally from right move, not only from Alexander City and the professional aspect, returning to home and but it was also a chance to familiarity was important, make an impact here and Smith’s influence on the capitalize on the potential town has been readily of Alex City. We looked apparent. at it as an opportunity “It was the downtown to create something,” that really interested me Meacham said. in this area when we Lacey and John started looking for a place Howell’s story is similar, to live. It was so unique, but it was a family from the roundabout to business that initially having everything within drew them back to town walking distance. I saw in 2012. Lacey Howell the opportunity of living took a job in the sales a smalltown lifestyle, department at Tallapoosa but also knowing there Publishers, Inc., and was room for growth. I John went to work with honestly was thinking this Robinson Iron, with would be the best time which he has family ties. to be here,” said Smith, “At the time we moved who serves as executive home, there was not a lot director for MainStreet going on in town and not Alexander City. a lot of young people, so it Megan Adamson had was quite daunting,” said a similar situation. Her Lacey Howell. “Working now-husband Ryan had with TPI turned out to asked her to move to be a major turning point Alexander City when they in my career, though, were dating. His job was because of my exposure relocating from Olympia, to small business.”

Washington, which is The Howells’ respect where she’s from and for small business where he was currently owners grew, and their working. perspective of the impact “I figured, ‘Well, I can shopping locally could do anything for a year ...’ have spurred their interest but I really like the sense in getting more involved. Here for the Jobs of community here. The “With the help of group of 30-somethings Facing page: Jenni Roy helps Skylar Waldrep on a project in her Randy Lee Jr., who was we know or have met ninth-grade English class at Dadeville High School; Top: Jack really the forerunner of are interested in the Meacham is all smiles with his parents Jacob and Lindsay, who the movement, we began moved back to town in 2015 and work locally. community and seeing organizing any young it thrive. People also people in town to create things to do to attract more people,” are willing to listen to your input. You don’t really find that said Howell. anywhere else,” said Adamson, who works in Auburn and Howell moved from TPI to Wickles Pickles, where the lives at the lake halfway between work and Alexander City but entrepreneurial environment inspired John and her to start chooses to spend her time here. their own businesses.

While Lake Martin is a huge draw for any individual in “When you surround yourself with an environment like that, the area, as expressed by most millennials, the abundance of Lake Martin Living 27

outdoor activities available is equally appealing. The beauty, scenic trails and peaceful environment are vital to Robin Simms’ choice to move back to her stomping grounds after time in Alaska and Canada.

“I really moved back after having my daughter Ruby, knowing my family was here. I wanted her to experience family and cousins. But the biggest priority for wherever I live is the outdoor aspect.

Growing up where that spark started for me was a huge influence,” said Simms, who also feels that same amenity is more easily accessible in this area.

Simms, who had been working in a larger city like many other millennials before moving here, said she also prefers the slower pace of smalltown living.

Despite the elevated entertainment options bigger towns may offer, Alexander City is growing just enough that the balance between a leisurely and a lively way of life is easily achieved.

“I don’t miss the traffic, and the pace may be slower here in terms of lifestyle, but it can be as active as you want to make it. You can keep the town’s inherent personality while adding things to do,” said Meacham.

The sense of belonging has a positive influence on millennials’ opinions of their habitat, as it’s easy to get lost

28 Lake Martin Living

in the hustle and bustle of a city. The choice to make an impact weighs heavily on the minds of a younger generation, motivating their need for change.

“I’m impressed by the amount of influence younger people bring to the town and their aggressiveness to try new things and make an impact. Millennials are even appealing to older businesses to make changes that fit the next generation.

We’re shifting as we have to, to be successful,” said Roy. Groups, including the Lake Martin Young Professionals, started events like Strand Sessions to bring more events to town to complement seasoned favorites, such as Friday on the Green, Jazz Fest, Sun Festival and others.

“People are ready to participate even if it’s outside their comfort zone. We’re at an advantage. This is the perfect timing to give something a try,” said Smith.

The idea of investing in a town is fuel that engages the masses to make it an enjoyable spot, said Adamson.

“I’ve never felt more part of a community as I do here – and I’m an outsider,” Adamson added.

This generation places value on maintaining their identities and claiming ownership of their lives and their homes. While there is typically a strong sense of mobility among millennials,

Alexander City is noticing an urge from its residents to settle down and grow roots.

Michael Stoll, an economist and professor with the University of California, recently concluded that people are moving South due to lower housing costs, which can help millennials, especially, begin saving for house down payments.

Affordability is a vital factor for this age group, and it’s one that is more accessible in small towns, which also hold more opportunities to progress in smaller job markets.

“Cost of living is much cheaper here, which was also important to me. Plus, it’s easy to lose yourself in a big city or lose your identity trying to conform,” said Simms.

For those who grew up here, the connection of childhood creates a strong bond, as well.

As a welcoming, friendly city, there is an astounding impression that knowing the names of local storeowners and being recognized and acknowledged in return strengthens the relationship of the community. In reaction, most millennials prefer to shop local and spend their money in town as much as possible. Admittedly, most said they don’t feel like too much is lacking.

“There are so many culturally based social hangouts that we lacked in 2012, which made the initial relocation difficult, that now I don’t really feel like I’m missing something,” said Howell.

With the addition of boutiques, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, salons and spas, banks, grocery stores and more all in one area, people aren’t driving out of town to find things to do.

They want to spend their time and money at places where they can influence a local person’s business, be known and make a true impact.

“I can proudly say I try to shop small and keep everything

within this little area. Sense of Belonging I am very aware of Facing Page clockwise from top: what it means to Robin and Ruby Simms enjoy the outdoor amenities the area has support locally in to offer; Natives John and Lacey time and business.

You know who you’re Howell are local entrepreneurs; buying from and who Megan and Ryan Adamson married at SpringHouse last year you’re supporting, after moving from Washington and in this town, that state; Above: Troy and Bre Smith means something to appreciate local downtown people,” said Smith. offerings.

While progress has been significant, it’s also the older generation that has kickstarted this shift.

“We can’t neglect the generations that have come before us paving the way for this to happen and whose livelihood also depends on Alex City’s growth and success. They’re the ones that never gave up on this town,” said Meacham.

Millennials have so many positive things to say about the area; yet, they also noted it lacks a few things that could help drive even more people this direction.

More food options; a wider variety of stores to include outdoor apparel; increased housing rental options; and more businesses creating jobs are the most common suggestions they offered.

Also, paving the way for the youth in town with reasons to come back here is important to keep the momentum moving forward, said Smith.

“Alex City really is the land of opportunity and exactly what the American Dream is all about,” said Simms.

Lake Martin Living 29

C

Plan money management around new tax law

ongress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in December 2017. This was the first significant reform to the tax laws since 1986. Since changes have been made to both individual and corporate tax rates, most taxpayers will be affected by this legislation. Those who itemize will have fewer expenses to deduct and a higher threshold in order to itemize.

Changes to child-related tax benefits will impact families. Most changes took effect on Jan. 1, 2018, and tax returns filed during this spring for the 2017 tax year generally will not be affected.

But the following are changes that could affect individuals and families for the tax year that just started.

Tax Rates Changing

America’s tax system is progressive. This means that higher-income people are taxed at a higher tax rate – a higher percentage of income – than people in a lower-income tax rate. Tax rates increase as taxable income increases. Since most individual income tax rates have been lowered, many workers will have more take-home pay as a result of the tax reform.

child or qualifying relative. Each exemption reduced taxable income by $4,050 in 2017. The higher standard deduction is designed to offset the loss of personal exemptions in 2018.

Child Tax Credit Increasing

Deductions reduce your taxable income. Credits offer a tax benefit by reducing your tax liability on a dollar-for-dollar basis.

The Child Tax Credit is available to families with qualifying children who fit within certain income limits. The maximum child tax credit increases from $1,000 to $2,000 per qualifying child. The refundable portion of the credit increases from $1,000 to $1,400. That means taxpayers who don’t owe tax can still claim a refundable credit of up to $1,400.

Child tax credits apply to qualifying children under age 17, and each child must have a Social Security number by the due date of the return.

MONEY MATTERS

Standard Deduction Increasing

Mortgage Interest and State/Local Tax Deductions Limited

The mortgage interest deduction limit will apply to $750,000 of mortgage debt on your primary residence for new mortgages taken out after Dec. 14, 2017. Interest on a home-equity loan or homeequity line of credit is no longer deductible.

The deduction for state and local taxes, including sales, income and property taxes is now limited to a combined total of $10,000 in 2018.

A tax deduction reduces the amount of income that is taxable, which may lower your tax liability.

When you file your taxes, you have the option of itemizing your deductions (listing each deductible expense separately) or taking the standard Jim Littman deduction. The standard deduction is increasing in Student Loan Interest, Educator Expense 2018 to $12,000 (single taxpayers), $18,000 (head and Education Credits Remain of household taxpayers), and $24,000 (married Student loan interest of up to $2,500 can be filing jointly taxpayers). These limits are almost double what deducted by qualifying taxpayers. K-12 educators can deduct was allowed in 2017. Many taxpayers who previously itemized up to $250 per year for unreimbursed classroom supplies. The deductions could now claim the standard deduction instead.

American Opportunity and Lifetime Learning credit are still available.

Personal and Dependent Exemptions Eliminated

Taxpayers have historically claimed a personal exemption for themselves, their spouse (if filing jointly) and each qualifying

Health Care Penalty Eliminated

The penalty for failure to obtain health insurance coverage (the individual mandate) will be eliminated beginning in 2019.

Taxpayers who did not have health insurance coverage in 2017 or 2018 will continue to owe a penalty for those years, unless they qualify for an exemption.

The Bottom Line

None of the changes listed above will impact how you file your 2017 taxes; however, it’s never too early to begin thinking about next year’s return. Taxpayers should talk with their tax professionals about how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will affect their 2018 taxes. ~ Jim Littman is a mortgage loan originator with Home Place Mortgage in Alexander City. He can be reached at 256-329-1410.

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Lake Martin Bama Club Championship Celebration

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Feb. 1, 2018 Willow Point Golf and Country Club 1. Luke and Sela Robinson

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2. Hugh Neighbors and Bill Richardson 3. Maggie Trabucco, John Hodges and Alexa Ruttenberg 4. David and Reba Culpepper and India Davis 5. Tom Young, Matt Clayton and John Forrester 6. Buddy and Jane King 7. Kay Thomas, Nancy Hodges and Dedie Hendrix 8. John Glass and Bill Kinnebrew Lake Martin Living 31

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3rd Annual YP Polar Plunge Jan. 13, 2018 Kowaliga Restaurant

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1. John Comer, Bob Ham, Bill Murray, Lisa Ham and Kim Comer 2. Kate Douglas and Kaitlyn Gleason 3. Aubrie, Annsley and Harlan Dark 4. Laura Lacey, Brandi and Jesse Worthy, Graham Lee

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and Stephan Tomlin 5. G.W. Warren and Lizi Arbogast 6. Greenlee Peppers, Lee Ellen Shores, Corbin Richardson and Palmer Peppers 7. Shawna Woodruff, Christi Richardson, Josh Flournoy, Marley Woodruff and Crystal Pemberton 8. Mason Blair and Landon Korte 9. Lacey Howell, Stephan Tomlin, Meridith Collari and Megan Adamson 10. Joyce Reeves, Lola Popov, Di Riccio, John Boles and Doris Franklin

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Valentine's Sock Hop Feb. 6, 2018

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Jacob's Ladder, Alexander City 1. Grant Gordon, Bransen Thomas and Riggs Patterson

2. Willow Gettings, Bella Mann, Lynlee Jones and Macayna Williams 3. Evie Bradley and Jake Kolb 4. Brinley Reeves and Sawyer Penton

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5. Sophia Barrett and Johnny Spears 6. Sadie Bishop and Roxy Rayfield 7. Brylee Mueller and Hadley Waites 8. Karleigh Baker, Madeline Mumper, Bentley Vardaman and Caroline Smith Lake Martin Living 33

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Charity Bingo for LMAUW Feb. 6, 2018 Niffer's at the Lake

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1. Harry and Bonnie DeNegre and Marcia Reid 2. Cay and Harry Weaver 3. Joy and Keith Brown 4. Lawrence, Helen and Tisha Phillips

5. Duane and Sue Paggen 6. Debra and Bobby Cannon 7. Wade Moore, Lee Parr and Birgit Porter 8. Bill and Elaine Toney and Rita and Jim McCollister

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Horizons Unlimited Feb. 5, 2018 Alexander City Board of Education 1. Jean Cummins and Sonny Bozeman 2. Randy and Nancy Stephens and Lawrence Allen

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3. Helen Martin and Rebecca Shivers 4. Jo Walker and Mary Lee Radney 5. Jackie and Darnell Sheldon 6. Beverly and Harold Henry 7. Bill and Linda Stewart

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Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Register now for Russell Forest Run

Hosted by Russell Lands on Lake Martin, the Russell Forest Run is in its ninth year this month. The 5K and 10K races on scenic trails through Russell Forest on Feb. 24 benefit the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation.

The race begins at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads on Highway 63, and the route takes runners through the picturesque Russell Forest, which is famous for a couple of steep climbs, including a trip up Heaven Hill. The trails, which are open year round, were designed for runners, hikers, bicyclists and electric cars.

The 10K run starts at 7:45 a.m., with a 5K run beginning at 7:55 a.m., but the real fun starts at the after party at The Stables with beer and the muchanticipated grits bar.

Registration is $40, and awards will be presented to winners in 10-year age groups from under 10 to over 70. Entrants can pick up race packets from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday before the race or from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. on race day at the Discovery Center at Russell Crossroads.

All runners will receive a high-performance running shirt. Shirt quantities are limited, so be sure to register by Feb. 14 to be guaranteed a shirt.

Last year's event raised $9,000 for local schools.

Registration is $40, and proceeds help provide educational tools for students in the Alexander City school system. Call 256-397-1019 for more information.

36 Lake Martin Living

Feb. 16

Motown Magic

Alexander City Arts, Inc., will present an evening of Motown Magic at 7 p.m. at the Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium. For tickets and more information, visit AlexanderCityArts.org.

Feb. 17

Pancake Breakfast

The Dadeville Kiwanis Club will hold its annual pancake breakfast from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Dadeville Elementary School cafeteria. Tickets are $6 per person and include all-youcan-eat pancakes, sausage, ham, coffee, juice and milk. For tickets, see any member of the Dadeville Kiwanis Club, or contact Tony Johnson at 256-8256364 or Peggy Bullard at 256-825-9415.

Feb. 23

Equality Performing Arts Center

Birmingham musician Hunter Goff performs at the EPAC at 6:30 p.m on state Route 9 in Equality. For more information, contact Wayne Glenn at 334-541-3302.

Feb. 24

Russell Medical Foundation Gala

Dr. John C. Blythe is the honoree for this year’s gala event to raise funds for medical scholarships for the Russell Medical Foundation. The formal ball will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner at Willow Point Golf and Country Club and dancing at 7 p.m. Tickets are $150 each and are available through the foundation office at 256-215-7459.

Feb. 26

Horizons Unlimited

Dr. James Hansen, an expert in aerospace history, will present a program about astronaut Neil Armstrong for the Horizons Unlimited session at the Alexander City Board of Education located at 375 Lee St. The meeting is held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., and refreshments are available.

Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the whole Horizons Unlimited semester.

March 3

Trash Walk

Starting at 8:30 a.m., volunteers will meet at three different locations

to receive road assignments and supplies. The locations include Dirt Road Gourment at 1171 Red Hill Rd., Eclectic, led by Reuben Thornton (334857-3521); Kowaliga VFD Station 1 at 1240 Prospect Rd., Eclectic, led by Jack Hitchcock (914-227-6231); and Kowaliga VFD Station 2 at 4807 Mt. Hebron Rd., Eclectic, led by Jodie McGirt (334-202-1730). All three teams will finish around 11:30 a.m. and head back to Dirt Road Gourmet for a trash dump and hot dog cookout.

March 4

Lake Watch Annual Meeting

Members and guests are invited to the Lake Watch of Lake Martin Annual meeting at the StillWaters Home Owners Association Building.

Lunch tickets are $10 per person. Guest speaker Dr. Bill Deutsch will discuss his book, Rivers of Alabama, and the Tallapoosa Basin. Eric Reutebuch will provide a water monitoring update. For time and registration, visit the website at www.lakewatch.org or email info@ lakewatch.org.

March 17

Trash Walk

Volunteers will meet at the entrance at 4294 Elkahatchee Rd. Those arriving by 8:30 a.m. will be treated to a light breakfast, and all volunteers should arrive by 9 a.m. to receive supplies and begin the walk. The plan is to clean Elkahatchee Road from Highway 280 to Our Town on Highway 63. The cleanup will conclude at noon, and volunteers will be treated to a cookout courtesy of The Boones. Contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289 for information.

April 7

Junque Jubilee

Beginning at 8 a.m. MainStreet Alexander City will host an upscale yard sale with anything from antiques, furniture, vintage, arts and crafts to old cars and iron works. Registration for sellers will end March 30.

Registration information can be picked up at 21 Main St., Alexander City.

For information, contact Executive Director Bre Smith at 256-329-9227.

Season-Long Events Millerville Trade Day

Bibb Graves School on Highway 9 hosts trade day on the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Find books, toys, models, coins, lamps, original artwork, jewelry, clothing, antiques, glassware, quilts, home décor and more. Refreshments available.

Alabama Wildlife Federation Naturalist Hikes

Every Tuesday and Friday, from 10 a.m. until noon, hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced Alabama Nature Center naturalist by your side. Learn how to bird or identify plants and animals; splash through the creek; or catch insects in the meadow.

General admission applies and is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. The Alabama Nature Center is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Visit alabamawildlife.org to check holiday closings.

Library Storytime in Dadeville

Storytime for children ages 5 and younger is held at the Dadeville Public Library at 10 a.m. every Tuesday.

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. and offers kidfriendly movies on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m.

Electronics Recycling

The City of Alexander City Public Works Department hosts an electronics recycling event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month.

Items accepted include computers, computer mouse, keyboards, modems or routers, CD and DVD players, power supplies, PC mix systems, home or cell phones, printers or copiers, mainframe servers, audio/ video adapters, laptop chargers, cable boxes, nickel cadmium or lithium ion batteries and flat screen monitors and televisions. CRT monitors and televisions are no longer accepted. For information, call Alexander City Public Works Department at 256-409-2020.

Lake Martin Living 37

Santuck Flea Market

The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month, except January and February. The Santuck Flea Market is located at 7300 Central Plank Rd., Highway 9 in Wetumpka.

Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit

The Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony exhibit is on display all year long at the Alexander City Board of Education building, located at 375 Lee St.

$20 on the 20th

The Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce is asking our community to spend $20 on the 20th of each month to help our local economy.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at

the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

Meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus. Participants come and go between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5 p.m., followed by show-and-tell.

Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.

Real Island Supper

The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room, 1495 Real Island Rd., Equality. Everyone is welcome.

Admission is $3 per adult; bring a covered dish to share. Some nights are themed, so call ahead to find out if costumes or certain types of food are in order. For more information, contact Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724.

Antique Car Cruise-in

On the first Saturday of each month, car enthusiasts cruise into Arby’s parking lot on Highway 280 in Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Join the fun and enjoy an era of classic cars and classic music.

Charity Bingo Play charity bingo at Jake’s

Restaurant at 16 Broad St., Alexander City at 6 p.m. every Thursday night.

Cards are $1 and proceeds benefit local charities.

Amateur Radio Club

The Lake Martin Area Amateur Radio Club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the terminal building at the Thomas C. Russell Field Airport (Alexander City Airport) with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. For more information, contact Michael Courtney at 256-825-7766 or Mike Smith at 256-750-5710.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

Naturalist Marianne Hudson fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl, just to mention a few. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature in the wild and the outdoor classroom.

Check the calendar at Calendar.

RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Trivia Night at Niffer’s on the Lake

Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts trivia night at 7 p.m. Winners receive Niffer’s gift cards. First place gets $40, second place gets $25 and third place gets $15.

Grab a group of friends and come out for a night of games. A bonus question is posted on the Niffer’s Facebook page at 2 p.m. Thursdays.

Ladies’ Book Club

Ladies 18 years of age and older are invited to participate in the club at Adelia M. Russell Library on the last Thursday of every month. Meet in the conference room at 4 p.m. Call the library at 256-234-4644 for each month’s book title.

To add your event to the Lake Martin Living calendar, please email details to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

38 Lake Martin Living

The Heart of the Matter

F

ebruary is the month set aside to focus on heart disease, the No. 1 killer among men and women.

According to the American Heart Association, more than 2,200 Americans die of heart disease every single day.

That’s one death every 39 seconds.

On average, someone in the United States suffers a stroke every 40 seconds, while a stroke-related death occurs about every four minutes. The news is even more eyebrow raising for women, which is why the AHA showcases the Go Red for Women campaign each year.

Ladies, consider these updated statistics:

We want to keep your heart healthy and help you reduce your risk for a heart attack or stroke.

During the month of February, Russell Medical is offering three important heart screenings at special reduced Wear Red Day Raises Heart Health Awareness rates. If you or In support of heart health, especially as related to women, someone you love Russell Medical staff donned red shirts, pants, scarves and has known risk jackets for a photo on the lawn. factors for heart n Cardiovascular diseases and stroke disease – such cholesterol on the artery walls. This cause one in every three women’s deaths as family history, obesity, stressed build-up can restrict blood flow to each year, killing approximately one lifestyle, history of smoking or diabetes the brain or break off and become woman every 80 seconds.

– consider these potentially life-saving lodged in a blood vessel, causing a n Cardiovascular diseases screenings. stroke. Early detection could help your affect an estimated 44 The calcium-score personal physician to advise you on an million women in the U.S. CT heart scan is a nonappropriate course of action that could n 90 percent of women invasive way of obtaining save your life. Screening cost is $75 for have one or more risk factors information about the this important, quick test. for heart disease or stroke. presence, location and The third heart screening is a limited n Women have a higher extent of calcified plaque in echocardiogram, which uses sound lifetime risk of stroke than the coronary arteries, the waves (ultrasound) to generate 3-D men. vessels that supply oxygenmoving images of the heart. It can n Fewer women than containing blood to the assess the chambers and valves of your men survive their first heart heart wall. CT methods, heart and measure how well your heart attack. such as this one, are the muscle and heart valves are functioning. n The symptoms of heart most sensitive approaches to This non-invasive screening is $125. attack can be different in early detection of coronary Please note, these screenings are not women vs. men and are artery disease before covered by insurance, and payment often misunderstood – even symptoms develop. Our new must be made prior to the service Susan Foy by some physicians.

CT scanner provides 512 rendered. Appointments may be made n Hispanic women are image slices while reducing by calling the Central Scheduling likely to develop heart disease 10 years radiation dosage up to 80 percent. Cost department at 256-329-7826. Results earlier than Caucasian women. for this test is $90, and screenings are will be sent to your primary care n Of African-American women recommended no more than once every physician and one of our cardiologists. age 20 and older, 48.3 percent have five years.

Russell Medical reminds you that early cardiovascular disease; yet, only 14 The carotid artery ultrasound is a detection of heart disease saves lives. percent believe that cardiovascular non-invasive procedure that can spot disease is their greatest health problem. the subtle thickening due to plaque ~ Susan Foy is marketing director at n 80 percent of heart disease and on the carotid artery walls, which can Russell Medical. stroke events could be prevented by lead to stroke. Plaque build-up is an lifestyle changes and education. abnormal collection of calcium and Lake Martin Living 39

Medical News

9

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

9

Power lines

20

280

19

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

15

22

Flint Hill Church

24

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

13

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Jacksons Gap

Pleasant Grove Church

31

11

9

Mt. Zion Church Russell Farms Baptist Church 32 Friendship Church New Hope Church

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

22 57

24

6

4 Camp Kiwanis

27 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

10 Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

11 1

Church in The Pines

Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko w

ali

ga

2

Stillwaters

21 5

Union Landing

Ba

25 26

Walnut Hill

y

23 30

80

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

7 63 18 8

Equality

9

17

9

Smith Landing Willow Point

Seman

Dadev

280

Liberty Church

20

231

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

29

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

16

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic

12

Santuck

Kent Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

28 14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

40 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUNT

Marinas

Daviston

1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 2 The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

22

33. River North Marina 256-397-1500

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

hoe Bend nal Park

5 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

24 Foshee What's, LLC 256-234-3298 2802 Dadeville Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Restaurants

8 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 9 Homeplate Cafe 256-825-0583

191 East South St., Dadeville, AL 36853 10 Oskar's Cafe 6684 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

50

Camp Hill

11 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 12 Bezlo's Bar and Grill 334-639-0003

65 Main Street., Eclectic, AL 36024

Business & Shopping

280

Waverly

13 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481

5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, Al 35010 14 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

50

15 Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

14

16 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

LEE COUNTY

22 Centry 21 Lake Area Realty 256-825-4800 440 N Broadnax St., Dadeville, AL 36853 23 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

7 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

ville

21 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853

4 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

6 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

CHAMBERS COUNTY

20 McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583

1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010

Hotels & Lodges 25 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 26 Creekside Event Center 256-307-1441

7051 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches 27 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 28 Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 334-252-8618

2602 Gilmer Avenue, Tallassee, AL 36078 29 Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293

8352 Highway 50, Dadeville, AL 36853

Dock Builders 30 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 31 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation 32 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

17 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 18 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

Loachapoka

19 Dark Insurance 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010

14

Notasulga

ON TY

85 81

If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-234-4281. Space is limited.

Lake Martin Living 41

385 East LaFayette Street Dadeville, AL 36853 (256) 825-9244

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Lighting the Way for the Lake & River Region for more than 125 Years

To subscribe call Linda Ewing 256-234-4281 P.O. Box 999, 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010

Lake Martin Living 43

DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE OF LAKE MARTIN LIVING! Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy.

ALEXANDER CITY

Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Que Campus of CACC Carlisle's Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart Emporium Wine Grace’s Flowers Hampton Inn Holley’s Home Furnishings Hometown Pharmacy Jackson Drugs Jake’s JR’s Sports Bar & Grill Koon’s Korner Koon’s Korner II Lake Martin Building Supply Lakewinds Golf Club Larry’s General Store Longleaf Antiques Mark King Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot USAmeribank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

CHELSEA

The Ditsy Daisy Boutique Winn-Dixie

CHILDERSBURG Winn-Dixie

DADEVILLE

American Watersports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center

44 Lake Martin Living

Foodland Foshee Boat Dock Homeplate Restaurant Harbor Pointe Marina Lakay’s Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Community Hospital Lakeshore Discount Pharmacy Lakeside Marina Niffer's At The Lake Oskar's Cafe Payne Furniture Pearson’s Place Poplar Dawgs Public Library Pug's Place PNC Bank Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 USAmeribank

ECLECTIC

Bezlo's Cafe Bless Your Heart Children’s Harbor Cotton’s BBQ Eclectic Do-It Center Johnson’s Furniture Kowaliga Marina Lake Martin Dock Lake Martin Mini Mall Nail’s Convenience Store Original Grace Peoples Bank

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

INVERNESS

Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Area Tree Top Family Adventure Winn-Dixie

KELLYTON

Five Star Plantation

MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market

RED HILL Citgo

SYLACAUGA

Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly on 21

TALLASSEE

Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce The Tallassee Tribune

WALNUT HILL

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA

The Wetumpka Herald To be sure a copy is reserved for you, call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281 for a subscription.

AD INDEX A1 Four Seasons................................................................................ 4 3

Liveoak Agency, Inc............................................................................ 5

A&M Plumbing.................................................................................... 7

Kathy McKinley, Draperies.................................................................. 8

Advanced Heating & Air.................................................................... 4 3

Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance................................................ 4 3

APCO Employees Credit Union.......................................................... 4 7

Kelley’s Heating & Air........................................................................ 4 3

Beyond Home Care.............................................................................. 5 Bezlo's Cafe....................................................................................... 3 8 Bob Alexander Landscaping .............................................................. 1 3 Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation......................................................... 3 8 C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 3 0 Cahaba Glass..................................................................................... 1 3 DAVCO Development........................................................................ 4 3 Designs by Trish................................................................................... 7 George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 7 Guy's Heating & Air........................................................................... 4 3

Lake Martin Dock.............................................................................. 1 9 Mark King's Furniture ....................................................................... 1 7 Millstone Nursery................................................................................ 7 OBGYN Associates of Montgomery................................................... 4 2 Prime Management........................................................................... 4 2 Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 7 River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 4 3 Russell Medical.................................................................................. 4 8 Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................... 5

Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance...................................................... 4 3

Southern Sash..................................................................................... 8

Heritage South Credit Union.............................................................. 4 5

Sunrise Docks...................................................................................... 2

Hinson Galleries................................................................................... 8

Tallassee Community Hospital............................................................ 4 2

J&M Tank Lines......................................................................................... 1 3

Wind Creek Casino.............................................................................. 3

Jackson Thornton............................................................................... 2

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Lake Martin Living 45

ENDLESS WONDERMENT

You could be a big-time winner

I

am going to let you in on a secret: I am terrible at golf. I mean, atrocious.

Also, if you know me, you know that is not a secret, but humor me.

I grew up next to a golf course in a golfing community surrounded by golfers who golf a lot, but I am truly terrible at golf.

Let me put it these ways: Charles Barkley thinks I need swing lessons ... My game has more shanks than a prison snitch ... The only way my slice lands in the fairway is if I hook it so ridiculously that it eventually turns into a slice!

My younger brother, on the other hand, is pretty good. As in high-single-digit-low-double-digithandicap good. He’s always been better than me on the golf course. It’s really never been close.

But as I walked through the hallowed hallways of Willow Point Golf and Country Club the other day, I noticed something I had long ago forgotten.

Something so shocking and so surprising you might not be prepared for it.

(Take a minute to spread out some sheets of plastic for when your mind is blown and then continue reading.)

In 1988, I – Luke Robinson – won the Junior Club Championship at Willow Point Golf and Country Club – in golf … against other living, breathing people who were fully capable of swinging golf clubs.

I know, right? Totally cray cray (check the online Urban Dictionary).

I can’t believe it either.

My hoisting a golf trophy of any sort is incredible. Conquering the field in the prestigious (to me, at least) Junior Club Championship is like a threelegged, gout-ridden Sea Biscuit winning the Indy 500 while running backward on stilts.

Of course, I think it was a pretty small field that year.

In fact, it was just me and one other dude, if memory serves. I am also pretty sure he quit 46 Lake Martin Living

mid-round because he had other stuff to do.

Regardless of the details, my name is engraved right there on a wooden plaque of past victors for all eternity. Literally chiseled into golfing infamy.

Yes, I know that infamy means being well known for a bad or evil deed. I am here to tell you that for me to have won any golfing prize I must have made some kind of spiritually nefarious deal.

Probably not with the devil (I think I would remember that) but maybe one of his middle-managers. You know, like Daryl from Demon Affairs or Margie in the Diabolical Human Relations Department.

Anyhoo, let’s move on from my supposed, unverified personal wheelings and dealings.

Guess whose Luke Robinson name is not on that revered plaque? If you guessed my brother’s, you are correct! Well, actually there are several names not on there, so you probably guessed correctly regardless.

So, here I am: A horrendous shanker of disastrous proportions; a chili-dippin,’ occasionally-whiffin,’ fairway-avoidin’ bona fide level-18 hacker who just happened to win an event my immensely more talented sibling could not.

I do not write this column to plaster that award in his face. On the contrary; I am well aware of the fact that I backed into that trophy like old people back into a parking space at the grocery store: obliviously and carelessly. My intent was to be an inspiration for those who have brothers and sisters that are better than them at certain – if not all – things.

Just always think back upon my triumphant story and remember that you can be a winner – a big-time yuge winner. You just need to play in a tournament that has only one or two other people in it; and then, hope both of them drop out, so you win by default.

So, you know, keep the faith and all that stuff. Or don’t. Whatever.

The Last Word

~ Luke Robinson is an Alexander City native who also writes a weekly column for The Alexander City Outlook.

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Lake Martin Living 47

“He has our hearts. It’s up to us to keep them healthy.”

Heart attack survivors Pam and Jeff Robinson with grandson John Bierman

www.russellcares.com