Lake Martin Living Magazine May 2021

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

Firefighters save Alexander City historic church

May 2021

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

2 Lake Martin Living

™

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256-749-3644 rhonda@lakearearealty.net

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Lake Martin Living 3

From the Editor’s Desk

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t's May, and the world is slowly opening up again to life as we know it. The mask mandate has been lifted, people are getting vaccinated and events are taking off.

Life as we know it – is back!

This issue of Lake Martin Living is significant because two days before we needed to go to print, the bell tower at the Frist United Methodist Church in Alexander City went up in flames. So, at the last minute, we pushed our main feature to June and included a 6-page spread featuring photos of the church on page 22.

Then on page 28, discover the details behind the two-day Keebler Park Clean-up that allowed for a total revitalization of the park. If you haven't been out there to see it, it's worth the drive. And speaking of driving, on page 14, Dave Jennings talks about Black Magic Woman, metronomes and how tempo can make or break your drive to succeed on the green.

Lori Harrell discusses emergency funds on page 30 and whether or not your finances are actually ready if something crazy, like oh, I don't know, say, a pandemic decides to plague the world. She offers up some really great tips on getting organized and setting money aside, even when it's hard to do.

And on page 16, we wanted to thank all of those in the community who participated in the Tourism Gives Back Earth Day Clean-up. We are incredibly grateful to those in our community who step up and step out to make sure Mother Nature is nurtured, too.

Shane Harris discusses tomatoes on page 18 and how to avoid disease and insect damage. While on page 46, Lacey Howell speaks directly to the graduates of the class of 2021 about what college is to her and how they shouldn't label themselves at such a young age. If you label yourself, you limit yourself.

And as I draw this letter to a close, I want to share a photo of Chief. He was supposed to be part of the Fur-ever Friends feature last month, and somehow, he slipped through my fingers. But he is super cute, and it is National Pet Month.

So enjoy!

Have an excellent start to the summer, and I will catch you next month!

Brittany Smith, Editor 4 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Editor Brittany Smith Contributors Kenneth Boone Dave Jennings Lacey Howell Shane Harris Lori Harrell Cliff Williams Siri Hedreen Jake Arthur Darius Goodman Betsy Iler Audra Spears Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Rachel McCollough Marilyn Hawkins Julie Harbin Andy Carr Carson Wages Digital Services Elle Fuller 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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Lake Martin Living 5

ON THE COVER

Dr. George W. Hardy General Dentistry

Alexander City was rocked with devasting news on May 4, 2021 as they learned that the bell tower at the First United Methodist Church was ablaze.

Fire crews came together to save the historic church.

Photo by Jake Arthur

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing Candi Tate, Clinical Liaison

2334 Washington Street, Alexander City | 256-329-9061 | www.crownehealthcare.com

6 Lake Martin Living

FEATURES 10. INNOVATION CENTER SUCCESS SERIES Dylan Johnson spent 10 months at the Innovation Center networking and growing his business while looking for the perfect office location in the city.

16. TOURISM GIVES BACK Lake Martin Tourism organized an inaugural clean-up in Tallapoosa County to celebrate Earth Day. 22. THE BELL TOWER FIRE During a terrible lightning and thunderstorm, the 115-year-old Bell Tower at The First United Methodist Church in Alexander City went up in flames.

28. KEEBLER PARK CLEAN-UP The Dadeville Beautification Board and Hellas, a manufacturing company in Dadeville, partnered to clean-up Keebler Park.

35. MAIN STREET EVENTS Play Bingo Under the Stars, join the community on Third Thursday or peruse the fresh fruits and vegetables at the Farmer's Market.

IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 14. FROM THE TEE 18. GARDEN TALK 30. MONEY MATTERS 32. OH SNAP! 36. LAKE REGION EVENTS 39. GOOD EATS 46. CULTURE SHOCK

The walking path at Keebler Park has been cleared and cleaned up for patrons to once again enjoy.

Photo by Brittany Smith

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AROUND THE AREA

Opportunity comes to Alexander City The gig economy has reached Alexander City by way of two food delivery apps, DoorDash and Waitr.

Amie Walmsley, a DoorDash driver, moved to Alex City last month expecting to have to commute to other cities to find delivery gigs. Not long after arriving, however, DoorDash added Alex City as one of its "zones."

"I was like 'Hey, it's perfect,'" she said.

"Right when I move here they add a zone here."

Walmsley said DoorDash has been in Alexander City since March 30. So far, only three fast food restaurants show up for Alexander City.

Since then a competitor has entered the market. Last week, Waitr, a regional platform based in Louisiana, was advertising for drivers on Facebook, though its app only listed one restaurant. Within the past week they've signed on a dozen local restaurants, both mom and pop businesses and fast food franchises.

Dianne Khan, matriarch of family-run restaurant Carib Kitchen, said a representative from Waitr came by earlier this week offering the Khans a free trial. Waitr would handle the

logistics and provide an iPad to take orders from. After the one-month trial, Carib Kitchen would provide Waitr a 15% cut of every order delivered.

Maliyah Norris, a Waitr driver, said having control of her own schedule is a plus as a parent.

"You do it on your own time, pick what times are available to you, and you can start when you want to," she said. "So it's flexible if you have kids such as me."

Walmsley, also a mother, drives for DoorDash and is able to bring her children along for the ride.

Norris, an Alexander City resident, has been a Waitr driver for three months now.

Up until a week ago, she had to drive to Montgomery for delivery gigs but now she's able to work locally.

Sareth Chea, owner Providing Opportunities of Daylight Donuts, Daylight Donuts signed up for a free owner Sareth month with Waitr and Chea embraces bringing the Waitr said he's had some success, with seven opportunity orders in the first three days. ~Siri Hedreen to Alexander City.

Utility rates to see increase Utility rates in Alexander City likely to increase as infrastructure improvements evolve.

In Alexander City’s sewer system alone, staff with the accounting firm Jackson Thornton have made presentations the city is only receiving $44 for every $100 it spends on sewage while other city utilities are

close to breaking even or showing a slight profit. It leads to the conclusion that rates, especially sewage, have to increase for the city to prosper.

“Electric, water and gas are probably not going to see a lot of change,” Alexander City Mayor Woody Baird said. “Sewer is probably going to double. If we double sewer we are still going to be at a 50 percent loss.”

To help with the rate study increase the city has employed Chris Cousins and Municipal Consultants to help navigate potential rate increases.

And the city has already found places to improve issues, which includes simplifying procedures for employees.

“We are trying to work through recategorizing,” Baird said. “We are trying to simplify our billing system.

We are trying to have three categories in each utility and we have hit some obstacles.”

Baird said he has already had conversations with the Alexander City Housing Authority about the issue as it’s already budgeting for the next fiscal year. Councilmembers asked about when the issue might come to the table for a decision.

“We are going to get there; middle of summer we should have rate increase advice to bring to you and see what you’re thinking,” Baird told councilmembers. “We are trying to align it with the new budget.”

The rate studies done by Jackson Thornton were done from audited fiscal year 2017 numbers based on rate increases from 2008. Baird said rate increases are not popular but the city and councilmembers will just have to chalk it up to a decision that has not been made in many years. ~Cliff Williams

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BUSINESS MATTERS

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The Success Series:

Dylan Johnson graduates the Innovation Center after purchasing the perfect location STORY & PHOTOS BY BRITTANY SMITH

D

ylan Johnson worked in the medical field as an X-ray/MRI technician before making the decision in 2017 to step into entrepreneurship. While he enjoyed his previous job, he also saw the benefit of owning his own business.

He credits his wife, Season, who is partial owner of BeYOUtiful salon in downtown Alexander City for encouraging his drive to take a chance and become his own boss.

“It wasn’t always easy,” Johnson said. “Probably for the whole first year that Country Financial was open, I came home every day and questioned whether I’d made the right choice.”

After a year of sharing an office in downtown Alexander City, Johnson realized that he needed to look for a different office space. That was when he set out to find a building that could be purchased and meet the company’s needs.

After spending hours, days and weeks looking Making Moves for a suitable Left: Johnson's location, wife, Season Johnson came designed the up emptyoffice interior; Next handed. It was Page: The entire then that he building went reached out to through a buildthe Alexander out and remodel.

City Chamber of Commerce to inquire about renting an office at the Lake Martin Innovation Center.

“I outgrew the space I started in, and I wanted to buy, but I couldn’t find the right location,” Johnson said.

“So, I reached out to Jacob Meacham about moving into the innovation center. As it turns out, they were able to offer a great space intermittently with a package that was put together efficiently, and I was there for 10 months. It worked out very well.”

He said that the opportunity that the innovation center affords start-up and small businesses is just outstanding.

“They gave me the opportunity to focus more on growing my business and less of me having to worry so much about overhead, building maintenance, bills, etc,” said Johnson. “They invited me to gatherings that helped me network, and make sure I was comfortable. They also made sure I had everything I needed as far as my space went.”

During the 10 months that Johnson spent at the Innovation Center, he focused on digging his heels in and creating traction within the community for his business. He said the innovation center helped to push and drive him towards his goals.

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Johnson knew that in order to be successful, he was going to have to do something that most people dread.

He would have to talk to people, network and get his face in the public eye, a feat that came naturally to him.

“For me, that was the easy part. I consider myself a people person, and with insurance, that is what I do. I talk to people, I build relationships and ultimately, I help them with their insurance needs,” Johnson said.

It didn’t take long for him to figure out his niche, and although he does sell all lines at Country Financial, Johnson really enjoys working with and helping small businesses.

“We enjoy working with certain types of businesses like mom and pop shops,” Johnson explained.

He said that he works with locally owned businesses including clothing boutiques, landscape companies, plumbers, truckers, heavy equipment operators,

12 Lake Martin Living

mechanic shops, car dealerships and even supply stores.

The options are limitless.

“The commercial insurance world just kind of fell into my lap, like the building that I’m in now. And I am proud of both.”

In March 2020, as business boomed for Johnson due to his work ethic and determination to succeed, he signed a lease-to-own agreement for his very own office space, one with the perfect location. Since signing the paperwork, the original building has been totally renovated to suit the needs of the business. And in July, Johnson moved into the official Country Financial office space, located at 1096 Airport Drive, Alexander City.

For more information about Country Financial or speak with Johnson, call 256-414-6013 or visit the website at countryfinancial.com/dylan.johnson.

lakemartindock.com

334.857.2443

Lake Martin Living 13

Black Magic Timing If it helps, add some swing to your swing

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hinking back a few years ago, at the Willow Point Country Club Men’s Club Championship, I was in the middle of the first fairway, preparing to hit my first approach shot, when suddenly, I could hear the song Jessica by the Allman Brothers Band playing.

I thought it was coming from a car driving into the club, so I backed off the shot and waited a moment.

The volume of the song didn’t change, so I asked the players in my group, “Do you guys hear the Allman Brothers playing from somewhere?”

One of my fellow competitors proudly spoke up and said, “Oh yeah, I love them.

It’s coming from my Bluetooth

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speaker.”

I said, “They’ve been one of my favorite Southern Rock bands since 1971, and I would be delighted to listen to them between shots, but I really need for you to pause it while I’m preparing to hit a golf shot.”

He understood and didn’t waste any time complying with my request. There were no hard feelings, and we had a great time playing together that day.

I don’t know if it’s just me, but I cannot play golf when music plays in the background. It possibly influences me more than some people because I was a drummer for many years. If a song is a smooth tempo, I’m going to swing smooth, and if it’s a fast tempo, I’m going to swing fast.

The fact of the matter is, I swing and/or think at the same tempo of the song that I hear playing.

When I was in school, from the seventh grade until I graduated high school, I played drums throughout the school year and then played golf all summer long. During the school year, there were all sorts of parties my band would play at during the fall and winter. I played golf on the junior and high school teams, but it wasn’t as demanding of time back then as it is today, and I could still play with the band throughout spring. Summertime was all about golf, but still, there was a lot of time dedicated to music in my youth.

One summer day, while practicing golf, I discovered that the song Black Magic Woman, by Santana, was the perfect song to play in my head while playing golf. It allowed me to maintain a good tempo, especially the keyboard intro of the song, so much that I figured I was doing well because of the music. I then thought, maybe I could be more productive listening to music while I practiced. The next day, I brought a transistor radio to practice and tuned into my favorite radio station, and began to hit balls. After about six songs, I was spraying the golf ball all over the range

From the Tee

and not hitting the ball solidly at all. It One quick plug about Central was then that I realized I was swinging to Alabama Community College Golf: the tempo of each song, and it caused my The boys are presently preparing swing to become very inconsistent. for the national championship, which A great way to practice rhythm, will be played at The Rawls Course in especially putting, is by downloading a Lubbock, Texas. The team is in the same metronome app to the phone. Tune the position in the polls as we were in 2019 metronome to a pace that allows for a when we won this championship, fifth smooth putting stroke. I first saw this in the country. when watching Lee Williams practice at In 2013, CACC Golf won the National Willow Point years ago. The first time I Championship in Lubbock. I know the saw him using the metronome, my mind course reasonably well – but so do the wandered back to Black Magic Woman. other coaches, especially those in Texas.

Several of my golf team members We’ve got a good chance, especially and many other good golfers practice with Hayden Carner, our freshman. He while wearing earbuds. I often ask the is ranked third in the country and has guys what they are listening to, and finished in the top five in every event of Dave Jennings sometimes I’ll ask to hear the song. If the year, along with two wins. We also they listen to their earbuds while hitting have Tanner Guthrie, who just posted a balls and begin to spray their shots, the 64 at our district championship. If the first thing I tell them is to do is: put the music remainder of the team steps up, we’ve got a shot at away. After a short explanation, they buy into it the Trojans bringing home national championship and complete their day of practice without the number eight in May. Go Trojans! music.

I prefer to listen to what nature is playing rather ~Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach at Central than Sirius Radio; however, if music is required, Alabama Community College. play it, but please be courteous to everyone else on the course and in your group.

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Tourism Gives Back

CleanUp The cleanup was a huge success thanks to all of those in the community that participated.

Wind Creek State Park, Pelican Point Expeditions, Lake Martin Voice, OGS Tournament Trails, Adams Beverages, Lake Martin Auburn Club, Alexander City Litter Crew, Tallapoosa County Commissioners, Lake Martin Machine Gun, Lake Martin Dock Company, The Mitchell House, Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association, Benjamin Russell High School, Off the Beaten Path, Kamp Kiwanis, Lake Martin Cabinetry, Zazu’s Verandah, Lake Martin Mini Mall, Russell Lands On Lake Martin and the Trillium Community.

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n conjunction with Tallapoosa Cleaning Up Top: Jodie McGirt County Tourism and Lake unloads massive Martin Resource Association, amounts of trash Lake Martin Tourism after a successful Association celebrated Earth Day Earth Day clean-up. with the inaugural Tourism Gives Back Earth Day Cleanup.

Lake Martin Resource Association conducts cleanups on an ongoing basis, and everyone is always welcome to participate. The dates for community cleanups are listed on the Lake Martin Tourism calendar, which can be found on the website at explorelakemartin.com/events/.

And if you can’t make it to a scheduled cleanup, plan one of your own, in any area of preference, any time during the month. Lake Martin Tourism Association and LMRA will make it as easy as possible and provide pickers, bags, vests or whatever the crew may need.

Reach out to Lake Martin Tourism or LMRA, and they will arrange a drop-off of supplies or a pick up at the Lake Martin Innovation Center.

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Lake Martin Living 17

Grow goodness

T

Avoid disease and insect damage with these tips

omatoes are a summertime treat and a musthave in the vegetable garden.

By early May, most people have already planted tomato plants or are just now getting started. A lot of work and care is required to get to the point where one can pick a nice lush ripe backyard tomato. Managing insects and diseases is a significant chore, but mulching, watering and staking may be just as critical, if not more important.

Placing mulch around new tomato plants helps control weeds and conserves moisture. It also reduces diseases by reducing the amount of water splashing onto the bottom leaves of the plants. Spread 2 to 3 inches of mulch in a circle around the plants once the soil has warmed up and the plants grow well. Pine straw, grass 18 Lake Martin Living

clippings, newspaper and wheat straw are good choices and decompose as the season progresses. Mulch can be tilled in later in the fall as additional organic matter.

Mulch helps to ensure uniform soil moisture and cuts down on the need for frequent watering.

Speaking of water, tomatoes like consistent moisture, rather than fluctuations of too wet or too dry. With frequent rain showers always in the forecast, this can be difficult to control. Hand water or run irrigation long enough to wet the soil 6 inches deep. Adequate moisture will help maintain uniform production and will reduce blossom-end rot.

Avoid overhead watering A Delicious Treat and contact with leaves as Green tomatoes ripen much as possible to limit if stored with apples.

t his summer Garden Talk

the development of diseases. Invest in drip produce ripe tomatoes earlier in the season irrigation or soaker hoses. than caged tomatoes.

Supporting tomato plants in some way as Indeterminate tomato plants, like ‘Better they grow and develop fruit is also necessary.

Boy,’ do better if surrounded by wire cages; There are many specific techniques for however, a cage should be sturdy and supporting tomato plants; however, the two well anchored to the ground. Concrete general methods are staking and caging. reinforcing wire provides good support for Since determinate tomatoes, like the plants. A cage should be 24 inches in ‘Celebrity,’ do not grow as tall as others, diameter. A length of wire 9 to 10 feet can they are most often staked. With staking, be used to construct a cage within that size all flower clusters on a tomato plant range. In general, a caged tomato plant will usually develop on the same side of the produce more but smaller-sized fruit than a stem. A stake should be placed so that the staked tomato plant. developing fruits are not crowded between It is also vital to visit the vegetable garden the main stem and the stake. Therefore, do daily to check how well it is growing and Shane Harris not stake plants until after the first flower detect potential problems. Two common cluster is formed. Then, drive the stake on diseases that may occur early in the year are the side opposite of the flower cluster and the Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus and early about 4 inches away from the base of the plant. Tie the blight. Most tomato diseases, with only the exception of stem just above the first flower cluster, using strong a few, can be prevented or controlled. If not prevented binder twine or cloth strips. Staked tomatoes will usually or detected early, these diseases can be headaches for

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gardeners and farmers.

TSWV is a serious disease found on tomatoes because there is no cure. Once found, gardeners must yank up the infected plant and discard it.

The first noticeable sign is that the tomato plant stops growing and tends to be much shorter than the healthy plants around it. Plants infected with TSWV exhibit dark purplish-gray ring spots on the leaves in the terminal portion of the plant. Later, the dark spots merge and cause the leaves to appear bronze. Infected fruit may exhibit numerous ring spots and blotches and may become distorted if infected when immature.

TSWV spreads by insects called thrips. Controlling thrips to prevent and reduce the spread of TSWV is the only strategy. Spray tomatoes with an insecticide, such as malathion, neem or insecticidal soap, to suppress insect populations and the spread of TSWV. At the first sign of TSWV, always remove and destroy all infected plants as soon as symptoms appear. Leaving an infected plant serves as a new source for the disease and only aids in spreading the virus. Sacrificing one or a few may help save the others. New tomato cultivars are developing a resistance to TSWV. Early blight is usually the first disease that attacks tomato plants each year. As its name states, this fungal disease appears early in the growing season as spots on the older lower leaves and causes them to yellow and die.

It slowly spreads and moves up the plant onto the rest of the leaves. In addition to moving up the individual tomato plant, early blight also spreads to other existing tomato plants in the garden. A severe case of early blight will stunt plant growth and limit much of the fruit production.

The best way to deal with early blight is to prepare and control it early. One cultural method is to make sure mulch is placed around the plants throughout the garden. Since early blight is a fungal disease and spreads Support the Plants

Top Left: Early blight can be spotted by the yellowing of leaves on the tomato plant; Bottom: To prevent the spread of TSWV, plants should be sprayed with insecticide.

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through spores, mulch will help limit the amount of water and spores that splatters on the plant during rainfall and overhead irrigation.

As mentioned above, it is best to put the water around the base of the plants near the ground rather than sprinkling overhead. Excess water on the leaves combined with high humidity could help trigger fungal growth and early blight.

Fungicides containing chlorothalonil, commonly sold as Daconil, are recommended for the prevention and control of early blight and other vegetable fungal diseases.

Once the young tomato plants are about a foot tall, consider starting a fungicide spray program. At the first noticeable sign of early blight, pick off the affected leaves and begin spraying. If early blight has been a problem in the past, more than likely, it will re-appear each season.

Lastly, scout regularly for insect infestations. Most garden bugs are not overly devastating to tomatoes, but do be on the lookout for aphids, stinkbugs and caterpillars. These can cause damage with long-term effects and require quick action before the problem and numbers get worse.

Homegrown tomatoes can be a real treat or a real headache.

The treat is eating and enjoying that nice red and ripe tomato. The journey to getting to that point and actually harvesting one or two can be a challenge. Contact me or your local County Extension office for additional growing advice or help with any problems that might arise.

A BLT sandwich would be really nice this summer; I just hope we all can again successfully grow them “T’s.” ~Shane Harris is the County Extension Coordinator for Tallapoosa County.

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Lake Martin Living 21

Local fire crews come together to save FUMC STORY BY BRITTANY SMITH & PHOTOS BY JAKE ARTHUR

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beloved historic landmark suffered serious damage May 4 when Alexander City was rocked with high winds and lightning, but local firefighters contained the bell tower fire at First United Methodist Church, saving the sanctuary, church hall and pre-school there.

FUMC’s bell tower, built in 1906, apparently was struck by lightning during a storm that swept quickly across the state, dropping 7 inches of rain in some places and clocking 87-mile-per-hour winds. Just prior to the lightning strike, several members of the congregation were meeting in the church but decided to go home before the weather worsened.

“We were leaving the building because we realized how bad the weather was Fire Crews Deployed getting, and we wanted Previous Page: The FUMC to make it home, but as bell tower went up we were running to our in flames after being struck vehicles, there was the by lightning; Left: Firemen loudest boom I’ve ever dumped water through heard in my life,” Church multiple access points member Lonna Upton said. to contain the fire; “I jumped and screamed. I Above: Multiple fire crews joined forces with ACFD had to make sure I hadn’t to save FUMC. been hit. We didn’t yet

know that it was the church that had been hit.”

“It was like being in a lightning storm,” Randy Kirkland said. “Normally, you see lightning and then hear the thunder, but this was just the opposite. It was like an electrical storm, lightning striking and thunder crashing all around, simultaneously.”

Upton said the group thought lightning must have hit something in the neighborhood behind the church. She was dismayed to learn it was the bell tower that had been hit and was on fire.

The bell at FUMC rings to signify worship. It rings to remind passer-byers of God’s presence. It rings to announce beginnings and endings in the community. For 115 years, the bell at FUMC has been a dynamic symbol of love and life in Alexander City.

The original bell tower was built in 1872 and suffered an ill fate in 1902 when a fire engulfed the whole of downtown, decimating most of the shops, businesses and churches.

And while it would be very interesting to say that out of the burnt kindling came the bell, still attached to the original wooden structure and reused in the current bell tower, no one seems to know for sure if that is factual. But Executive Pastor Michael Densmore said this month’s fire did not affect the bell. It is intact and sound, a much better fate than its possible counterpart from years before.

Lake Martin Living 25

“After the fire in 1902, the Church leadership decided to move the church out from the downtown area a little bit, and they chose this location here at Green Street and Semmes Street,” Correll Pritchard, facilities manager at FUMC, said. “They began construction on this building in 1903.”

Three years later, the bell rang again, signaling Sunday services had begun. That was in May of 1906.

There have been many renovations, upgrades and additions through the years to the neoclassical Romanesque-style house of worship, but still, Church leadership always made a point of maintaining the dexterity and originality of the building that was born to new life following the 1902 fire. But now, because of the damage that the fire created in the steeple, the bell tower will also receive an interior upgrade.

“I was actually the first one of us on the scene because I had been out riding around looking for blown transformers,” Fire Chief Reese McAlister explained.

“We all had, and when we got the call, I went back up to the church. I could smell the smoke.

It didn’t smell like a transformer.

It smelled like wood, and then I saw the smoke coming from the steeple.”

McAlister couldn’t get the keypad at the church entrance to work, as the power had shut down in that area of town during the storm, so he kicked in the front door of the sanctuary.

“The sanctuary was clear, but the louvers on the front of the bell tower are where I saw the fire,” he said. “So, I got in there, and things were falling from the top levels. A speaker fell and some other things. At that point, it became a complicated situation because I was worried about the safety of my guys.”

But once the ceiling finally fell and the firemen could see what they were working with, McAlister knew they were in business.

“There were so many safety issues,” he said. “We couldn’t get enough water pressure, so I called the water department, and they added about 20 PSI to the system to get us enough water to even begin to contend with the fire. That caused some pipes to burst and other issues that had to be fixed, but ultimately we were able to get our job done.”

McAlister said he was blessed to have 20 or 30 people on the scene right away that could help. Volunteer fire units from Hackneyville, Our Town, Willow Point and Kellyton 26 Lake Martin Living

all came with their tankers, while New Site covered station one for ACFD. “I was grateful for all of them, but Kellyton saved us.

They got there right when we needed water the most,” McAlister said. “I had 20,000 gallons of water by then, and we were ready to fight.”

Executive Pastor Michael Densmore commended the fire departments for their hard work, determination and perseverance throughout the evening.

“There was tremendous teamwork between Alexander City Fire Department and the neighboring units,” Densmore said. “Had it not been for the effectiveness of the fire departments, it could have been very, very bad.”

He said the community also turned out in support, remembering and grieving the damage to the bell tower.

Densmore reiterated that the bell is in place and sound, but there is work to do in the steeple.

He said it looks like there was just a bit of water damage in the sanctuary but that the fire department did a phenomenal job damming up the doorway with rolled tarps and tables and then ushering the water towards the front entrance.

“They really did their best to make sure as little water as possible went into the church,” Densmore said.

Servpro has been retained to dry, remove and replace the flooring, which will take four to six weeks. While the sanctuary floors are being repaired, worship services will be held in the fellowship hall.

“Fortunately, the fire department was able to contain the fire to the bell tower, which is just under 100 feet tall and about 24 feet wide,” Densmore said.

“We are grateful that there was not more damage,” he said. “We will do our best to correct it. We just ask for prayers and patience as we build back.”

Saving FUMC

Left Page: Firemen needed to gain access at the safest point possible due to debris falling from the top levels; Right Page Clockwise: Crews worked tirelessly to smother the fire; Water pressure had to be increased to contain the flames; The emotion was tanglible; Beaten and bruised, the bell tower still stands; J.Spears cuts through the louvers to determine the safest point of access; Onlookers gather around to watch and pray for FUMC.

Lake Martin Living 27

T

Keebler Park STORY BY BRITTANY SMITH PHOTOS BY BRITTANY SMITH & COURTESY OF DADEVILL BEAUTIFICATION BOARD

he Dadeville Beautification Board is on a mission to revitalize the beautiful town of Dadeville. The DBB actively works on projects around the city. They are always looking for volunteers to help clean up, beautify and rejuvenate areas of the community that have been affected by weather or lack of upkeep.

This past April 22 was Earth Day. In honor of Mother Nature, the DBB and Hellas, a Dadeville manufacturing business, partnered to take on the revitalization of Keebler Park on April 22 and 23. The park had been heavily damaged during recent storms and was tremendously overgrown.

“A couple of us go to Keebler Park at lunch and walk.

We’d just had some really big storms come through, and there were branches down. So we talked and decided cleaning this up would Revitalize the Land be easy. It would just Top Left: Members of DBB be time. It doesn’t and Hellas employees gather require some amazing around to get a game plan for the park clean-up; Middle: skill, and we can make an impact by Forbus donated equipment just showing up and for the crews to use in order to help move debris; Top doing the work,” said Right: Volunteers replace Jordan Drummond, rotten wood from pergolas HR manager at Hellas in the back of the park.

Construction in

28 Lake Martin Living

Dadeville.

“We were out here about six weeks ago on the weekend with the Key Club and Beta Club picking up debris from the storms. Then on Monday, Jordan called and said that she and the crew at Hellas wanted to give back to the community by cleaning up Keebler Park,” said Mickey Forbus, president of the DBB. “It has taken about four to six weeks to get everything organized. But yesterday and today, they have been here graciously and have been a wonderful help with supplies and manpower.”

Forbus said that there is a lot of hand labor involved with this project. He said that if he had to pencil in an evaluation for the project’s cost, it would cost anywhere from $10,000 to $12,000 or maybe even more for just the two-day project.

“That’s a realistic number,” he said. “We’ve had two days worth of time donated by numerous employees of Hellas, plus tools. We’ve had mulch donated; river rock donated; machinery donated. The county has donated employees̓ time. First Baptist Church, Kurt Pfitzner and his wife and Wayne Smith and his wife have all graciously donated food. It has been a major push and a major effort, and the park is really looking good.”

A major push it most certainly has been, and both the DBB and Hellas are confident that this will not be the last time they partner for a cleaning project.

“We are far from finished,” said Forbus. “But this is a

great start, and it will certainly make maintenance of the park easier in the future.”

He said they might not be able to get two whole days out of Hellas employees again, but they hope to partner here and there for at least half-day projects.

“It has been a great place to spend two days,” Drummond said. “And the goal is to get the park in good enough shape that is it easy for someone to run along the route here. We want to make it easier to maintain.

Having the machinery that Mickey donated has made the work go a lot faster. Instead of moving mulch, dirt, rocks and debris with a wheelbarrow, he donated the use of his equipment. Mickey has been dumping what is needed where it is needed. There are piles and piles of debris in the back of the park. It would have taken way longer for us to wheelbarrow those piles to the back of the park, and they are just a testament to all of the work that has been put in over the last two days.”

Drummond said the crew had a great time working on the park, and she is excited about the next park cleanup day because she believes that more people will participate.

“I’m so proud of our employees. They have come together the last two days to donate time and work together, and it was their off days. I think we’ve done a

lot of work. We have also had so much fun. All of the employees that have come out have said that they had such a good time. I think the next time we do something like this, we’ll have more and more people just because they will hear about the fun that we’ve had,” Drummond said.

In addition to Hellas and DBB, Darryl Heard with the water department, came out with his crew to clean up the picnic table area. It was overgrown, and the tables were not usable because they were dirty; however, that is not the case now as Heard’s crew sprayed and cleaned the tables. Hellas and DBB members came behind them to clean out around the tables and mulch the entire area, leaving a picnic area that is clean and ready for families to enjoy.

Hellas employees and DBB members also worked to rejuvenate pergolas toward the back of the trail. They refreshed rotten wooden pieces that needed replacing and laid all new river rock in the ditches and around the walking trail.

At the end of the two-day venture, piles of debris were removed, and the park has been renewed. People can now visit Keebler Park for a stroll, a run or picnic with their family and friends.

Lake Martin Living 29

Are your finances prepared for the next emergency?

E

arlier this year, one of our Alabama Valley Bank colleagues watched from her Birmingham house as a tornado tore through her neighborhood. Another associate in Alexander City had hundreds of trees on his property ripped from the ground in a storm. It seems like everyone in our area has a story about how close a storm came to taking everything away.

With this in mind, planning ahead is critical. You may not be able to predict if a storm or other disaster affects you or your family, but you can take some simple steps to prepare for almost anything that happens.

MONEY MATTERS

Get organized

Working with clients at Valley Bank, I like to share the FEMA Emergency Financial First Aid Kit, which you can find easily at FEMA.gov. This document includes checklists and forms to help you take stock of all your critical financial information Lori Harrell now when you have time, and you’re not in crisis. When a storm is coming, you certainly want to think about what emergency supplies you need, but you should also have a checklist ready to ensure your financial safety.

Go digital

I am a little old-school, so I suggest putting together a binder of important documents and forms because you will want to keep everything handy in one physical 30 Lake Martin Living

place. Maybe for you, that’s in a safe or a safety deposit box. But I also know how temporary physical places are, which makes storing digital copies of your key documents also a must.

And if you haven’t already made a move to direct deposit and electronic banking, now might be a good time to start. Having access to funds digitally will prevent you from having to worry about paper checks or statements when you’re worried about your home or your family. It will also ensure that you have an easy-to-access digital record of transactions. Speaking of digital records, make sure to take photos and videos of your home and your valuables every year or every quarter, which will help when it comes to insurance claims.

Set aside money in an emergency fund

Through your bank, you should be able to set up an account that automatically pulls a small amount from your paycheck each month, so you don’t have to think about saving for a disaster. We recommend a completely separate account to eliminate the temptation of borrowing from the emergency fund for other purposes. Also, remember that when a disaster hits, you will likely still have to pay your mortgage, loans and credit card bills. That emergency fund may help with that, or you may need to get in touch with your banker or credit card company to seek assistance. A local banker will also know what programs are available in your area to help people recover after disasters.

Create a plan for helping others in your community

When a hurricane or tornado strikes, many people in your community may be dealing with more than they can handle. Ask yourself how you can be involved if you’re able. Do your research now and consider getting involved with organizations with a history of serving your local community: Two we recommend are the American Red Cross and the local United Way. ~Lori Harrell has been a retail market manager for Valley Bank for more than nine years. She works with both the Mill Square branch in Alexander City and the Dadeville branch.

We invite you to live a luxurious golf lifestyle at The Yards, our newest community at National Village The Yards, a must-see collection of 21 cottages, is now open at National Village along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Auburn-Opelika, Alabama. You will fall in love with these new construction homes within a controlled access neighborhood with sidewalks and community gardens designed by WAS. The home plans for the cottages are designed by national award winner Larry Garnett and feature inviting porches. Best of all, The Yards is adjacent to the Marriott at Grand National and all of the resort amenities including spa, pickle ball, tennis, and pool. Schedule a tour by calling 334.749.8165 or visit NationalVillage.com.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT NATIONALVILLAGE.COM OR CALL 334.749.8165

Lake Martin Living 31

OH SNAP! 1

2 3

4

Driving Miss Daisy Saturday, May 1, 2021 On The Green at Russell Crossroads 1. Lydia, Sarah Grace and Tammy Montgomery 2. John and Deb Luedecke, Mel Albright 3. Jane Coghlan and Lynn Kison 5. Nita Hicks, Janice Pemberton, Mary Blake Pemberton,

Chuck Hicks and Bill Pemberton 5. Roger Kison 6. Bri St. Germaine and Channing Moeller

32 Lake Martin Living

5

6

OH SNAP!

1 4

7

2

3 6

5

Tourism Gives Back: Earth Day Clean-up Friday & Saturday, April 16 & 17, 2021 Tallapoosa County 1. Stacey Linn, Brittany Webb, Katie Stine, Tonya Holland, Jessica Boone and Josie Kittrell

2. Carl Payne, Wayne Dingler, Allen Mancil, Mike Schachtler, Roger Burnette and David Greene

8

3. Laurie Sturdivant, Sue Ann McMahan, Jodie McGirt, Leanne Calhoun, David Sturdivant, Tommy Spraggins, Neil Butlet and Chad Calhoun 4. Stephen Moore and Shaylee Beck 5. Palmer and John Coley 6. Vivian Autry 7. Jamar Leonard, DT Thomas, Chance Lumpkin, Shelton Wright, Gabe Benton, Chris Wyckoff, Chaden Allen, Jy Hicks, Demario Pearson, Lorenzo Crawford, Jr, ZaXavier Alexander, Aiden Drozinski, Jayden Maloy, Angel Bravo, Kolton Sims, JaMarcus Calhoun, Cole Hendrix, Ashtyn Russell, Jayden Stanford, Aubrey Blackwell, Shundell Russaw, Cody Glenn, Kevin Smith, Connor Smith, Wes Tate, Tyler Kelley 8. Mike Wilson, Mary Montoya, Lauren Little, Michelle Merrett, Cam Martin, Bill Garnett, Walt Hutcheson, Julia Thomas, Steve Thomas and Jimmy Lanier

Lake Martin Living 33

OH SNAP! 1

2

3

4

Strand Sessions Thursday, May 6, 2021 Alexander City 1. Betty Lemmond and Max 2. Landon Korte 3. Austin, Casey and Mazie Teel 4. Kim and Blair Dunn 5. Blair and Rossi Gilliland 6. Lydia Kate Balland, Lexi Key, Cecily Sloan, Madison Futral, Hannah Richard, Carter Singleton and Rachel Peek 7. Freddy Mccrary, Bridget Thornell, Michelle Ray, Betty Lemmond and Max

34 Lake Martin Living

5

6 7

Main St reet

A

LOCAL EVENTS

s COVID-19 restrictions begin to lift, many people are looking for something to do, a place to go or a way to have fun with their friends and families. With this in mind, Main Street Alexander City has put together summer events that are sure to draw citizens and visitors alike to the downtown arts and entertainment district of Alexander City.

The non-profit organization kicked off a round of summer events in April with Third Thursday and Bingo Under the Stars. These events will continue through the summer. Once June rolls around, Main Street will add the farmer’s market to their repertoire of excitement.

Third Thursdays is an opportunity for the community to gather in the arts and entertainment district of Alexander City and have some fun. It is also an excellent opportunity to support the small businesses located downtown.

“Third Thursday is bound to be a nice, laid back evening downtown where people can peruse wonderful works of art, listen to local artists perform and enjoy a meal out with their families or a cocktail while they shop,” said Stacey Jeffcoat, executive director of Main Street Alexander City.

There is live music from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the musician’s corner, located by Carlisle. Shops and restaurants will be open, and artists from all over will have their work set up on the streets for all to enjoy and purchase.

In addition to Third Thursdays, Main Street has organized Bingo Under the Stars, which takes place every fourth Wednesday from now until September. Bingo Under the Stars is held in the alleyway beside and in front of Castelluccio’s. The tables open at 6 p.m. and Bingo starts at 6:30 p.m.

“Castelluccio’s will offer dinner specials,” Jeffcoat said.

“People have also ordered from Jake’s, JR’s and other downtown restaurants, most of which are offering delivery or curbside pick-up.”

The night will offer participants 10 rounds of prize

bingo where they can win an assortment of prizes from Main Street t-shirts to wine cups and even a screwdriver set.

“At the last Bingo Under the Stars, we gave away $500 during the cash jackpot round,” said Jeffcoat. “There is always an assortment of prizes.

People never know what they are going to get, which adds to the excitement.”

Speaking of excitement, the farmers market begins June 5 and continues every Saturday through the end of September. The market opens at 7 a.m. on Broad Street and closes at 11 a.m.

This year there will be a multitude of farmers and different types of artisans present. Offerings will consist of fresh yard eggs, homemade loaves of bread, jams, jellies and farm-raised pork, in addition to an assortment of bright and colorful fruits and vegetables.

“Darlene Meadows will be there with fresh, homemade cinnamon rolls, and if you want one, you better get there early because she sells out fast,” said Jeffcoat. “We will even have fried pies this year. There is going to be a good variety of both perishable and non-perishable food items available.”

In the meantime, Main Street’s focus is on keeping the streets beautiful with newly potted plants and flowers, all potted by Betty Anderson, as well as planning the Lake Martin Song Writers Festival, which is set to take place Aug 17 through Aug 21.

“It is going to be wonderful. The event consists of 14 songwriters and five days of music from all over the Lake Martin area. The week will conclude with a little love concert on that Saturday,” said Jeffcoat.

For more information on the events, contact Stacey Jeffcoat at 256-307-3949 or email her at sjeffcoatmainstreetac@gmail.com.

Join the Fun

Top: Main Street hosts events in downtown Alexander City from April to September.

Lake Martin Living 35

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Music on the Square Thursday evenings in Dadeville Bring family and friends to downtown Dadeville and get the weekend started early with Music on the Square at Zazu̓s Verandah.

Upcoming musicians include Greg Lafollette on May 20; Richard Murray and Brett Foshee on May 27; Chasing Shadows with Jayla and Brandon Prince on June 3; and Mark Lyden and Friends on June 10.

Bring a lawn chair, pick up a bite to eat and socialize with friends old and new under the awning at Zazu̓s Verandah. Zazu̓s will sell adult beverages during the event.

Hosted by Zazu̓s Verandah at 128 W. Cusseta St., Dadeville, the event returns this summer with popular local musicians that will play every Thursday evening through July 1. Call Zazu̓s Verandah at 256-307-2188 or for more information, send an email to info.ZazusVerandah@gmail.com.

Enjoy the Music

Music on the Square began last summer as a socially distanced, outdoor event to connect the community and celebrate the completion of the beautiful courthouse square in Dadeville.

36 Lake Martin Living

LAKE REGION EVENTS May 17

Painting with Purpose

Loosen up with this three-day studio workshop with Amanda Lovett at Tallapoosa School of Art. Beginners and experienced painters will work toward developing the skill to reach deeper into your own sense of artistry. Workshop packages are available and can include lodging at the Blue Heron on Lake Martin, meals, on-site transportation and transportation to painting venues.

Visit tallapoosaworkshops.com for pricing information and details.

May 22

Newsboys at The Amp

Christian rock band Newsboys will appear in concert at Lake Martin Amphitheater at 7 p.m.

Tickets may be purchased in pods that admit five people each.

Regular pod price is $100. Gold pod price is $175 and includes premium seating. VIP pod price is $225 and includes a photo with the band and premium seating.

For information and tickets, visit https://www.awakeningevents. com/newsboysunitedloveoneanother/052221.

May 22

What’s in the Pot?

Pursell Farms Chef Joe will discuss classic rice dishes from Spain and Italy, as well as his home state favorite, jambalaya.

He will demonstrate how to prepare a traditional Italian risotto with roasted chicken and offer instructions on selecting the rice, wine and cheese that will result in a creamy risotto. His discussion will include such topics as the different types of rice and their unique properties and preparations; techniques for cooking pilaf, risotto, paella and congee; sofrito, the base of flavor; and rinsing, toasting and aging rice to develop its unique characteristics. Cost of this study, which takes place from 10:30 a.m. to noon, is $40.

For more information, visit the calendar at pursellfarms.com.

May 28 & 29 RXR Fest

Friday night at 6:30 p.m. RXR Fest features the outstanding talents of The Bank Walkers, a band from Alexander City, these guys have been a part of RXR since the beginning. And you will not want to miss The Big Stitch at 8 p.m. on the Green Stage, fronted by Jonathan Bloom.

Then on Saturday, southern songs writer, Adam Hood will be on the Green Stage at 6:30 p.m. Followed by an old favorite, Carolina Story who is known for blending folk intimacy, country grit, and alt-rock muscle at 8 p.m.

Bring a lawn chair, a blanket for the grass and a leash for the pup.

Picnics are encouraged and you can pick up an adult beverage at Catherine's across the street.

June 3-12

Sun Festival

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual celebration of summer with activities and events all week long, starting with a cornhole tournament on Thursday evening.

There will be sundae making, clues to help you find the medallion and win money, baking contests, a wet and wild event, celebrating American heroes and more. Visit the Sun Festival Facebook page for what̓s happening when.

June 5

Introduction to Sailing

Dixie Sailing Club hosts this annual free event to introduce adults and youth in the Lake Martin area to the great sport of sailing. The event offers classroom training on the basics of sailing, a hands-on review of a working sailboat and a tip drill; then, participants get to sail a Sunfish or Laser sailboat on Lake Martin.

Lunch and big boat sailboat rides are provided. For information, visit dixiesailingclub.com.

June 11 & 12 Jazz Fest

For more than 30 years, Jazz Fest has invited six great bands to take part in this free concert series at Strand Park in Alexander City and at Lake Martin Amphitheater.

Three bands will perform each night, starting at 6 p.m. both nights. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket, a picnic and your dancing shoes for a toe-tapping good time.

June 19

Juneteenth in Camp Hill

The Camp Hill community will commemorate the 1865 emancipation of slaves in the U.S. with a block party, softball tournament, food vendors, music and fireworks.

The celebration will show pride in Black heritage and culture, said Camp Hill Mayor Williams-Cole.

For more information, visit the Town of Camp Hill, AL, Facebook page.

Season-long Events Alexander City Farmers Market

Opening for the season on June 5 and operating through Sept.

25, the Alexander City Farmers Market, hosted by Main Street Alexander City, is as much an experience as it is an opportunity to buy fresh produce for your table. In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, jellies, jams, baked goods, bee products and goats’ milk products, you’ll find handcrafted items from local artisans.

Visit with the farmers, meet friends old and new at Broad Street Plaza in Alexander City from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday.

Third Thursdays Downtown

Every third Thursday through September, Alexander City downtown businesses will stay open later for shopping and specials. Main Street Alexander City will coordinate an art walk, live music and other events, like book signings. Purchase a glass of Lake Martin Living 37

LAKE REGION EVENTS wine at a downtown bar or restaurant and stroll through art at this entertainment district event before dinner.

Bingo Wednesdays

Come out to the alley next door to Casteluccio on Wednesday nights for bingo. Order dinner and wine from Casteluccio or your favorite downtown restaurant and have it delivered to your table. The event is limited to six people per table, and the number of tables is limited to 20, due to social distancing. Reservations for this weekly event go quickly; to reserve your table, email Main Street Executive Director Stacey Jeffcoat at sjeffcoatmainstreetac@gmail.com.

Wellborn Musclecar Museum

Housed in a restored vintage auto dealership in downtown Alexander City, the Wellborn Musclecar Museum collection of great American automobiles of the 1960s and 1970s is open for public viewing Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The inventory on display changes frequently, so every visit includes something new and exciting. Admission for adults is $11; children ages 7 to 17 admitted for $7, and children ages 6 and under are admitted free. To arrange discounted group tours or private tours, email wellbornmusclecarmuseum@gmail. com or call 256-329-8474.

Episcopal Church Services at the Lake

St. James Episcopal Church will hold Holy Eucharist services at noon at Church in the Pines on June 13 and 27, July 11 and 25 and Aug. 8 and 22. For more information, visit stjamesalexcity.com.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

Volunteers in Alexander City and Dadeville are encouraged to participate in community partnership cleanups every month. In Alexander City, the cleanups are held on the third Saturday of the month.

Meet at Broad Street Plaza at 8:30 38 Lake Martin Living

a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. For more information, contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289. In Dadeville, the monthly cleanup is held on the first Saturday of the month, and volunteers can pick up sanitized pickers and bags at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall. There also will be a trash bag drop-off on site. Contact Dianna Porter at 256-750-0075.

Library Storytime in Dadeville

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

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Librawry holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschoolaged and younger children. In addition, the children’s library hosts board games and puzzles every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For information, call Melissa Finley at 256-234-4644.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on state Route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursday through Saturday 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.

Friday On The Green

Friday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads, Russell Lands Presents – Friday On The Green.

Bring the kids, the neighbors, friends, family and even the dog – on a leash, please – and spend a refreshing evening listening to good music and enjoying the night air.

Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine

or pick up what you need from Catherine’s just across the street.

For more information or to view the list of performers, visit RussellLands.com/blog/events.

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 RussellLands. com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Yoga On The Green

Join the Yoga gang Saturday mornings at 7 a.m. on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads.

Yoga On The Green is designed for all levels from beginner to intermediate, so come and join the fun. But be sure to bring your mat and a water bottle.

Coffee & Connections

Every third Tuesday of the month, the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking event at 8 a.m. open to any chamber member. Participants should meet at the TPI bullpen at the Lake Martin Innovation Center for coffee, a light breakfast and a chance to network with community members.

To have your upcoming event featured in Lake Martin Living magazine's Lake Region Calendar of Events, submit details by the 15th of prior month to Brittany.Smith@ alexcityoutlook.com.

GOOD EATS

Chicken Salad Stuffed Tomatoes

Ingredients: 1 pound boiled chicken breast cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 cup chopped celery 4 green onions chopped 1 cup of mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided 1/2 teaspoon celery salt 1/2 cup sliced almonds 8-10 medium tomatoes cored

Instructions: Stir together chicken, celery, onions, mayonnaise, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, celery salt, and almonds; cover and chill. Using a serrated knife cut a thin slice off the bottom of tomatoes to create a level base. Cut tops from tomatoes and using a melon baller, remove pulp.

Turn tomatoes upside on paper towels to drain for 10 minutes. Season the inside of the tomato shells with salt and remaining pepper. Spoon chicken salad into cored tomatoes, garnish and serve cold.

2 2 READERS’

CHOICE Lake Martin Living 39

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

280

20

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

4

County Roads

15

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Flint Hill Church

22

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Pleasant Grove Church

28

11

9

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

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Smith Landing Willow Point

7

Seman

5 Camp Kiwanis

9

11 1 Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko w

ali

ga

80

2

21 6

Union Landing

24

Walnut Hill

y

22 27

Stillwaters

8 Ba

25 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

Church in The Pines

19

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

9 63 18 10

Equality

231

17

57

13 24

Dade

280

29

Liberty Church

20

Jacksons Gap

26

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

16

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic Santuck

12 Kent Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

40 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUN

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 43. Russell Marine Boating and Outdoors 256-397-1700

19 Russell Marine Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 5 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026 6 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

hoe Bend nal Park

7 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026 8 Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

CHAMBERS COUNTY

eville

ON NTY

98 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 10 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

50

Camp Hill

Restaurants & Venues

11 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

23

12 Acapulco Mexican Grill 334-283-2725 2867 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee, AL 36078 13 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt & Flatbread Pizza 256-444-8793 smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com

280

Waverly

Business & Shopping 50

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

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 21 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853 22 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 23 Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847 21300 Hwy. 280, Dadeville, AL 36853

Hotels & Lodges 24 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches 25 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 26 Lake Pointe Baptist Church

8352 AL-50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293

Dock Builders 27 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 28 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment 29 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

14 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

14

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

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 16 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

LEE COUNTY

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 Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 334-857-1816

8610 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

14

Notasulga 85 81

If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-414-3174. Space is limited.

Lake Martin Living 41

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

ATTENTION READERS: Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic some of our distribution locations have changed. This month, you may pick up the most recent issue of Lake magazine at the following locations. If you are ordering take out from any of the restaurants listed below or delivery from any of these groceries, request your free copy of Lake magazine with your order.

ALEXANDER CITY Robinson Iron A & M Plumbing Valley National Bank - 280 Carlos The Body Shop Jake's Moore Wealth Management Carlisle's Wine Emporium CACC Cloud Nine Shay Aesthetics Piggly Wiggly JR's Downtown Girl Russell Do It Center City Hall Dylan Johnson-Country Financial Chamber of Commerce Hillabee Towers Noel Boone George Hardy First Realty Mainstreet Family Care First Insurance Dark Insurance Warren Appliance Grace's Flowers Koon's Korner Marathon - Cherokee Larry's General Merchandise & Grocery Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark Jackson Drugs Alfa BB&T Bank Alex City Marine Valley Bank Main Mortgage Pro AllState Daylight Donuts Hometown Pharmacy Allen's Food Mart (Exxon) Karen Channell - State Farm Insurance Re/Max Around the Lake

North Lake Condo River Bend Store River North Marina Lake Martin Building Supply Petro Sho'Nuff BBQ Hair Design King's Furniture Jim Bob's Chicken Fingers Longleaf Antique Mall Jameson Inn Winn Dixie Regions Bank American Inn Russell Medical Center Citgo Hampton Inn Koons II Tallapoosa Ford Days Inn Holley's Home Furniture Jackson's Refrigeration, LLC. Sure Shot Shell - 280 Big B Bar-B-Que Russell Home Decor Jet Pep Comfort Inn Holman Floor Satterfield Inc. A & E Metal Wind Creek (Gate) Wind Creek (Store) Smith Marina on Lake Martin Willow Point (Office) Willow Point Country Club Catherine's Market Badcock Home Furniture Springhouse Restaurant Ridge Club Ridge Marina Kowaliga Marina Sunrise Docks Kowaliga Restaurant Russell Lands Corporate Office Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center Children's Harbor Love Lake Martin Real Estate Office HACKNEYVILLE Hackneyville Water Authority OPELIKA Collaboration Station EQUALITY Five Star Plantation Equality Food Mart Charles Borden Real Island Marina Southern Star Parker Marina

ECLECTIC Nails Lake Martin Marine South Lake Breeze Realty Mitchell's Upholstery Lake Martin Mini Mall Lake Martin Dock Cotton's Alabama Barbecue Russell Do It Center Cozumel 1st Community Bank Johnson Furniture Eclectic Public Library WOW Catering LLC Kickin Chicken DADEVILLE Sigger's Barber Shop American Watersports Raining Dogs Bay Pines Marina Siggers Alabama Power Dadeville Public Library City Hall Dadeville Courthouse Payne's Furniture PNC Bank Home Plate Cafe Valley Bank McKelvey Chevrolet Renfroe's Market Foshee's Boat Doc Lakeshore Pharmacy Russell Building Supply Lakay's TMP Construction Dadeville Chamber of Commerce Farmers & Merchants Bank Store 34 Jim's Pharmacy Shell 280 Root 49 Salon Poplar Dawgs Still Waters Country Club Still Waters Residential Association Fuller Realty Harbor Pointe Marina Oskar's Creekside Lodge Blue Creek Marina Lakeside Marina Niffer's Hwy 50 Eagle Millstone Nursery Lakeside Mercantile Fusion Grill At the Beauty Shop Chuck's Marina Tallapoosa Nutrition

Century 21 - Rhonda Gaskins Nannie Bells Cart & Catering CAMP HILL Lake Martin Pecan Company TITUS Kim's Corner MILLBROOK/PRATTVILLE Gene Jones Insurance Stone & Britt, LLC Millbrook City Hall Millbrook Chamber 1st Community Bank YMCA - Prattville SLAPOUT Lake Pharmacy Boy's Store Austin Flowers WETUMPKA Wetumpka Chamber Hampton Inn Russell Do It Center City of Wetumpka - Administrative Building Hog Rock BBQ Holley Mart WInd Creek Casino Convenience Store Wind Creek Wetumpka 1st Community Bank Valley Bank Brandt Wright Realty Jackson Thornton BB&T Bank Must Stop Cafe Emerald Mountain Store Bumpers Store Busch's Grocery Wetumpka YMCA Friendship Grocery TALLASSEE Marathon Tallassee Chamber Hilltop Grocery Road Runner Cozumel Tallassee Public Library True Value Hardware Walmart Red Hill Gallery Tallassee Eagle State Farm Dr. Parris Mullins Jr. O.D. Guardian Credit Union Get Lake magazine delivered to your mailbox for just $25 per year.

To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

$90

42 Lake Martin Living

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Lake Martin Living 43

AD INDEX A&M Plumbing.................................................................................... 6

National Village................................................................................. 3 1

A&O Tree Service............................................................................... 2 9

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery................................................... 4 3

Alexander Landscaping ....................................................................... 5

Poague Tree Farm & Nursery.............................................................. 1 3

Beyond Home Care............................................................................ 4 3

Precise Pressure Washing................................................................... 4 5

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation........................................................... 6

Prime Home Health.............................................................................. 8

C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 2 9

Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6

Coosa Valley MRI............................................................................... 4 5

Rhonda Gaskins, C21 Lake Area Realty................................................ 3

DAVCO Development........................................................................ 4 5

River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 4 5

Electronic Technology Group.............................................................. 4 5

Russell Medical.................................................................................. 4 8

First Methodist Dadeville/New Water Farms....................................... 4 5

Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................. 4 4

Four Seasons..................................................................................... 4 5

Security Pest Control.......................................................................... 4 3

George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 6

Singleton Marine............................................................................... 1 7

Harbor Pointe Marina........................................................................ 1 5

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

Heritage South Credit Union................................................................ 2

Sunrise Docks...................................................................................... 5

Insight Contruction............................................................................ 4 3

Surgical Dermatology Group................................................................ 8

Jim DeBardelaben................................................................................ 5

Swearingen Fence.............................................................................. 3 9

Jim's Pharmacy.................................................................................. 3 9

Tallapoosa County Board of Education............................................... 4 7

Kowaliga Whole Health..................................................................... 4 5

Tallassee Health & Rehab................................................................... 1 3

Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 13, 45

TowBoatUS........................................................................................ 4 2

Lake Martin Mortgage....................................................................... 1 2

UAB Heart & Vascular........................................................................ 2 1

44 Lake Martin Living

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COOSA VALLEY

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Lake Martin Living 45

Your future awaits I came across an old coffee mug in the bottom of a Tupperware box while cleaning out my childhood bedroom. It read Benjamin Russell High School Class of 2003 on one side and the other listed out all of the names of my graduating class. I put it in my keep pile.

May signifies the end and the beginning for graduating seniors.

All school-age children, but especially the teens of the past two years, have been asked to adapt to change far sooner than expected. Normal would have been the typical scene of your parents dropping you off in a dorm room with a microwave, a stack of Hot Pockets and $20.

To be able to pivot in a classroom setting is no different than pivoting in the business arena.

Once again, it all comes back to mindset and the brute strength of character, all of which are not Lacey Howell taught between the pages of a book. The most successful people, in my experience, have been the ones who can handle change.

I think the pandemic will make for exciting future leaders. It will be interesting to see what kind of inventors, politicians and thinkers will emerge out of Gen Z, the Tik Tok era – born with iPhones in hand and an already captivated audience. How will they capitalize on that? They have been self-branding their entire lives.

There is plenty of talk about how four-year universities will change and how many students view the four-year college route as not the only option. And it is not the only option.

I am 15 years removed from my own college graduation, but I can tell you that no matter what road you walk after you walk off the BRHS field, it is all about exposing yourself to experience and meeting as many new people as you possibly can.

And you have to do that on foot, not behind a screen.

There is no one road to success, but you do have to choose a route and commit full-heartedly to the pursuit of bettering yourself. It could be a four- or two-year school, trade school or work that is so interesting that no one will ever ask you about a diploma.

I always tell young people that the whole point of college is showing that you can finish something without someone forcing your hand. You do it for yourself. Do not put yourself in a box. Do

Culture Shock

46 Lake Martin Living

not worry about labels like doctor, lawyer or engineer; just major in what you are good at and finish. By labeling yourself, you limit yourself.

No matter where you land, dear seniors, I implore you to make as many new friends as possible. Build a network of people who are vastly different from you because that is where the magic happens. And although it is not apparent now, in 20 years, those are the people you will be doing business with, whatever that business may be. People remember how you treated them and how you made them feel. Oh, and have a little fun, too, while you are at it!

Kelsea Ballerini’s country song Half of my Hometown is so true: So stay or leave Part of me will always be Half of my hometown Half of my hometown Back roads raise us Highways take us Memories make us wanna go back When I took off to Auburn University in the fall of 2003, I had a Nokia instead of an iPhone. There were handwritten directions to the beach in the glove box. And Facebook didn’t yet exist. I met two new girls on Day 1, one was from Birmingham, and one was from Chicago. The Birmingham friend helped me get my first job, and I sold Chicago a lake house last summer.

Good luck seniors; know that your hometown will always cheer for you. ~Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and loves good wine. Follow her at Instagram @LaceyHowell and on her Facebook page.

f 2021! o s s la C s t a r g n o C

Lake Martin Living 47