Lake Martin Living Magazine May 2024

Renewing more than rivers for 25 years.

The Renew Our Rivers program, originated by Alabama Power, has grown into one of the largest river cleanups in the nation. Over 117,000 volunteers have come together to remove 16 million pounds of trash from our Southeastern waterways. We have shown up again and again to preserve the beauty and to create a community that is powering a better Alabama. For 25 years, we’ve been renewing more than rivers.

Scan to view volunteer opportunities.

From the Editor’s Desk Lake Martin Living

This is my first summer in Tallapoosa County.

I was hired by Tallapoosa Publishers back in August of 2023, and until recently, I believed that it would be abnormal to wait in line at the grocery store, and that traffic did not exist in this town except at 7:55 a.m. and 5:05 p.m.

Well, there’s a little more traffic now. And now, I find myself waiting in line a little longer at the large, sprawling self-checkout-a-palooza in the Walmart. But, along with these minor inconveniences comes the fun: suntans, koozies on perspiring cans of beer, sunburns and the feeling of slipping a koozie onto a new can of beer.

In this issue of Lake Martin Living , we focus on those events cropping up alongside lengthening days and growing summer crowds.

Eric Jones, Chief of the Tallassee Volunteer Fire Department, grew up attending the Sweet Summer Night Street Dance in Tallassee. Over the years, the event lost funding, and it ended. But this past April, the corner of James Street and St. Anne Avenue once again echoed with music. Turn to page 32 for the story.

The Alexander City Sun Festival is a weeklong collection of events, games, prizes and entertainment, culminating in the city’s seminal music festival, the Alexander City Jazz Fest. Betsy Iler outlines each of the festivities on page 20. For details on Jazz Fest, read my story on page 12.

And finally, the cover of this issue of Lake Martin Living tells the story of how Jaden Tuck was led to his new position at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, and how he hopes to advise and motivate the youth of the city. Turn to page 28 for the entire story.

Ben Smith, Editor

Chairman

Kenneth Boone

General Manager

Tippy Hunter

Editor-in-Chief

Betsy Iler

Creative Services

Audra Spears

Business & Digital Development Director

Angela Mullins

Contributors

Kenneth Boone

Ben Smith

Lacey Howell

Shane Harris

George Miranda

Teresa Grier

Gina Abernathy

Audra Spears

Cliff Williams

Abigail Murphy

Henry Zimmer

Melody Rathel

Lizi Arbogast Gwin

Dalton Middleton

Erin Chesnutt

Liz Holland

Audience Development Director

Samantha Himes

Marketing/Advertising Sales

Renee Trice

Haley Ingram

Dow Harris

Gena Kay Dixson

Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999

Alexander City, AL 35011

256-234-4281

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

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.

For much of his life, Jaden Tuck was set on following in the footsteps of his uncle, former NFL defensive end Justin Tuck. But the people in Jaden’ s life led him back to his hometown, where he will serve his community as a workforce and career readiness coordinator.

Photo

by Kenneth Boone

FEATURES

12. JAZZ FEST

This year's free signature twoday concert series in mid-June promises great memories and good times.

20 SUN FESTIVAL

Kick off summer with 10 days of family-friendly fun in Alexander City.

28

. READY TO WORK?

The newest staff member at Alexander City Chamber of Commerce is focused on presenting opportunities to people who want to work.

32. SOUNDS AND SIRENS

A nostalgic street dance returns to downtown Tallassee to benefit local firefighters.

Photo by Liz Holland

AROUND THE AREA

$115 million, 130-job investment made in Coosa County

130 jobs and a $115 million investment are coming to Coosa County.

Two Rivers Lumber Company, LLC announced it will open a Kellyton location at the Lake Martin Regional Industrial Park in Coosa County.

Two Rivers LumberKellyton will employ 130 people with a capital investment of $115 million. Peak North America will head up construction of the mill, infusing additional revenue into the local economy over the anticipated 14-month construction phase. Two Rivers hopes to be in operation here by August 2025.

This will be Two Rivers’ second sawmill location in Alabama. Owners Roy Geiger, Jay McElroy and Sean McElroy opened the first Two Rivers facility in Marengo County in 2017.

The average annual salary at the Two Rivers-Kellyton

facility will be just over $51,000 and will include operators for the sawmill and planer mill sections of the facility, as well as shipping/ receiving, maintenance technicians and heavy equipment operators. There will be additional high skill management positions, such as electrical and mechanical supervisors, safety managers, human resources and accounting, which will have annual salaries ranging from $65,000 to $110,000.

“The number of skilled workers needed will hopefully mean that some of our residents with those skills who are currently driving out of town to work, will be able to go to work closer to home,” LMAEDA Executive Director Denise Walls said. ~Staff

Main Street plans underway in Eclectic

The Main Street Alabama network will soon be in Eclectic.

For the last two months, a small group of business owners, leaders and others have met in hopes of promoting Eclectic. An application will soon be submitted to Main Street Alabama.

The group – named E-Town Collective –came as the result of a meeting led by Jessica Hoagland of Hercules, Inc.

Eclectic will not be a full-fledged Main Street town once the application is approved, but becoming a network community opens the door to various Main Street resources, such as fundraising, outreach and training. It will be a couple of years before Eclectic moves from a network community to a Main Street community. Several requirements must be met beforehand, such as the creation of a part or full-time director position.

Eclectic business owners and town officials met at The Wright Design to discuss next steps as they organize to possibly become a Main Street organization.

Regular attendees of the E-Town Collective meetings have already formed a de facto board, which eventually will be needed. The goal of these meetings is to get everyone on the same page. This may include beautification projects, such as the installation of benches, trash receptacles and murals. Or, it may involve creating more unique events to draw people to the town.

“We want something everybody knows Eclectic for

that is not the Cotton Festival,” Hoagland said. “We want something else also drawing folks in, and maybe they will come back more to visit our stores and shops.”

~Cliff Williams

An aerial view of Lake Martin Regional Industrial Park, which donated 110 acres of land to the creation of the new sawmill.

FSTORY BY ERIN CHESNUTT

Longleaf Antiques

or over 20 years, Longleaf Antiques has served Alexander City. But, when the previous owners were ready to retire, that successful, beloved business threatened to shut its doors for good. That’s what led Ben Hastings and Wesley Brown to purchase the store in January of this year. The two are looking forward to a ribbon cutting ceremony in the coming months.

Hastings moved to the area from Columbia, South Carolina, two years ago. There, he ran an antique auction house. Brown is an Alexander City native, and both men have operated their own booths at Longleaf.

Brown works full-time remodeling homes. He met the previous owners while working on their home. He had long been interested in purchasing Longleaf, but he knew he couldn’t do it alone. The 34,000-squarefoot space was just too massive for a single person to manage.

“I wanted to buy the store whenever they were ready to sell but knew I couldn’t run it by myself,” said Brown. “I met Ben here because we both had booths, and we decided to become partners and work full-

time on the business.”

The two connected over their loves for antique stores.

“There is really something for everyone here,” said Hastings. “We want people to bring their families and find things that remind them of their childhood. We have a lot of very unique items, and serious collectors shop here alongside families.”

Among the best-selling items are vintage signs, still in excellent condition.

“There’s a high-end collector’s market for signs and many of the other collectables we carry,” said Hastings.

The partners have added some new items to the store including a selection of Amish food – pickled eggs, canned vegetables, homemade fudge – and some snack items. Shoppers can also reach into a 1950’s Coca-Cola ice chest and purchase an ice-cold beverage, in the same way it was done before vending machines.

“We have plans to change the counter area and add a space to welcome shoppers and highlight the vintage

items”, said Brown.

“We love to go to estate sales and have even purchased entire estates. We love to find old barns and pick through the things the owners collected over the years,” said Brown.

“It’s also a great place to shop for lake décor, we have booth owners who craft items that are perfect for lake houses,” said Hastings.

Longleaf’s lake house décor includes everything from antique oars and to decorative logs of driftwood. The store also carries both new and antique indoor and outdoor furniture.

All Things Vintage Clockwise from Facing Page: Each booth in Longleaf has its own unique style; Search for dresses, hats and vintage clothes; A suit of armor may come in handy, given the right situation; Vintage signs are a staple of the decorations offered at Longleaf.

Hastings and Brown greet many regular customers by name.

“We want to be part of the community and have enjoyed getting to know people because they love to come here and look around,” said Brown.

Longleaf Antiques is open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

JAZZ FEST IS HERE.

STORY BY BEN SMITH

In June, the quiet, grassy field at Strand Park in Alexander City will be full of commotion. There will be a large stage set on the empty lot across the street, complete with lights, large speakers and scaffolding that rises high above the park’s trees. People will be sitting in camping chairs, reaching into their coolers for ice-cold beers and snacks, or walking around with drinks purchased from bars and restaurants just down the street. Some will be chatting and laughing with one another. Others will be on their feet, dancing and singing along with the music. Some will be standing as close to the stage as they can possibly get, the music coming from the nearby amplifiers becoming a physical sensation, as well as auditory one.

It is a typical scene at the Alexander City Jazz Festival, the Southeast’s longestrunning free-to-attend music festival, slated to take place at Strand Park on Friday, June 14th and at the Lake Martin Amphitheater on Saturday, June 15th.

“Anytime you can offer something for the community that is low cost or no cost to attend, you’re able to provide a cultural and artistic experience for folks maybe who otherwise wouldn’t have had it,” said Jacob Meacham, CEO and president of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. “I think that’s important for building connection and culture in your community around events and unique experiences.”

Jazz Fest is about more than just the music. It’s a chance for the community to merge and blend, for people to bond over the shared experience of musicianship. Meacham remembers that feeling when he attended these festivals as a kid.

Jazz Fest Schedule

Friday, June 14th (Strand Park)

6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. - Grant Green Jr. Group 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. - J & The Causeways

Saturday, June 15th (Lake Martin Amphitheater)

6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Not Yet Announced 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. – Not yet Announced

The festival has been a staple in the Alexander City music scene since it first began in 1991, originally orchestrated as a celebration of the Frohsin’s Department Store’s 100-year anniversary. In 1998, the festival expanded to include a Saturday night show at the Lake Martin Amphitheater, and has since continued with its two-night structure since then.

Despite being completely free to attend, the stages of the Alexander City Jazz Fest have hosted some of the most influential musicians of all time: Allman Brothers Band lead guitarist Dickey Betts played the festival in 2004, alongside blues legend Taj Mahal. Derek Trucks, arguably considered the best slide-guitarist of all time, has performed at the festival twice, both in 2005 and in 2009, alongside his Grammy-nominated wife Susan Tedeschi. Blues virtuoso Joe Bonamassa, whose albums have charted No. 1 over 25 times, performed in 2008, alongside the widely-popular Zac Brown Band. The Revivalists, Randall Bramblett and JJ Grey & Mofro have all graced the stage over the years.

“Growing up here, it was always something that I looked forward to even when I was young and didn’t really prefer that style of music,” said Meacham. “It was still a place that the entire community came out to, where you knew you were going to see a lot of people and have a lot of fun. And as I got older, and moved off and went to college and lived other places, Jazz Fest weekend was always something that we circled on our calendar to try to make it back to town for. Things change, times change, people’s interests change, but I think Jazz Fest is still one of those signature community events with a really historic tradition.”

This tradition has become part of the city’s identity. The festival has spanned 34 years, and has been a fixture in the city through times both good and bad.

“The community has changed a lot in 30-plus years,” said Meacham. “And I think as a result, maybe the identity changes a little bit, too. It is a kind of unifying thing between people who maybe identify with their town a little bit differently. But there’s this central thing that they can hopefully unite around.”

Music Makers

Previous Page from top: Grant Green Jr. Group; Bottom: J. & the Causeways

But despite the levels of popularity and talent that headline the event, the Jazz Festival has remained a free-to-attend concert. In an age of thousand-dollar concert tickets, a more intimate, free concert that still retains talented, widely-recognizable artists is not only unique; it is revolutionary.

Maybe that’s why people seem to show up in droves to Jazz Fest. Sure, the music is remarkable. But Jazz Fest is something that has become part of what it is like to grow up in Alexander City. After 30-plus years of the festival, it has become something parents can share with their children, reminiscing about what it was like when they were kids themselves. Jazz Fest has persisted through the years, despite much of Alexander City changing.

The Buzz of Periodical Cicadas

This time, I am ready. Back in 2011, I wrote about cicadas for the first time, without knowing much about them. Thirteen years later, I’m in the prime of my career. Not only am I now better informed on cicadas, but I’ve been expecting them.

The 13-year periodical cicadas are back and buzzing in Tallapoosa County.

By now, you’ve likely heard their song, especially if you live near heavily wooded areas. Just another pesky bug, you might say; however, for us insect enthusiasts, the 13-year periodical cicada emergence is a grand event. Thousands of cicadas will emerge from the ground over a period of a few weeks and sing loudly in the trees. People like me are fascinated by the fact that this insect takes an entire 13 years to turn into an adult.

Cicadas are flying, plant-sucking insects of the Order Hemiptera They are related to aphids, leafhoppers and treehoppers. Each year, the large, greenish, annual cicadas are part of our summer sights and sounds in Alabama. Annual cicadas are a different species and not to be confused with the periodical cicadas.

In the Trees

generally distributed across the northern regions, while the 13year species are generally located in the South and Midwest.

We have the 13-year species in Alabama (Brood XIX). For 13 years, periodical cicadas have lived in the ground in the nymph stage. On the 13th year, when the soil temperature has reached 64 degrees, the nymphs come crawling out of the ground. This year, I witnessed them just before sunset, crawling in the leaves and climbing up trees to molt and transform into winged adults.

When they do emerge after their long juvenile period, they do so in huge numbers. They leave behind 1/2-inch holes in the ground, usually surrounding large trees. Their familiar brown exoskeleton or “shells” cling to tree trunks, leaves and twigs.

My backyard is filled with cicadas and cicada exoskeletons. And as an insect lover, I have been studying them with curiosity. It may be because it is part of my job, but I also think it has to do with the bug-collecting kid who is still inside me.

Cicadas climb to the top of trees to molt; then, they transform into the familiar, black insects you may recognize.

Periodical cicadas (Magicicada spp.) are found only in eastern North America. There are seven species –four with 13year life cycles, and three with 17-year cycles. The 17-year species are

One evening, I looked up and discovered the nymphs molting into adults in the trees. They were everywhere, looking like small bats hanging from the leaves. Shortly after molting and coming out of the nymph exoskeleton, the new adults appear mostly white, with bright, red eyes. They darkened in a few hours as their exoskeleton hardened. By morning, these cicada adults had 1-1/2-inch-long black bodies, striking red eyes and orange wing veins.

Dr. Meredith Shrader, an Alabama Extension entomologist,

noted that this year’s emergence is an important event for cicada predators. Moles, birds, opossums and other small creatures feed on the cicadas. Shrader said the cicadas emerge all at once strategically, hoping that with so many around, some will survive to reproduce, lay eggs and start the process over.

Once they have become adults, the males band together to make their characteristic call using a tymbal organ that produces songs and choruses attracting females. These calls are species specific and are a much different sound than that of the annual cicadas.

The sounds can be deafening on their own and can become a formidable wall of sound, especially given that there could easily be tens to hundreds of thousands of cicadas per acre. The Hearing Industry Association claims that some cicada calls can reach up to 115 decibels – similar to being in a packed football stadium.

Despite the loud sounds and large populations, entomologists say that cicadas are essentially harmless. They are very subdued; they do not bite; they do not sting; and they are harmless to pets – even if your dog decides to take a nibble or swallow one whole.

GARDEN TALK

Shane Harris

Periodical cicadas lay their eggs in twigs about 6 to 9 millimeters in diameter. The females saw a furrow in the bark to lay their eggs. After the nymphs hatch, they drop to the ground and begin feeding on plant roots.

While cicadas are essentially harmless to humans and their pets, their egg laying can injure some garden plants. Blueberries, fruit trees, brambles, grape vines or other woody trees might incur damage. When several females lay hundreds of eggs in a single twig, that twig may die. In periods with large cicada populations, one might notice a few trees and other plants with “flagging” symptoms. The ends of individual branches are weakened by egg-laying and may snap or fall off the plant. This branch of brown, dead leaves could be pruned off to preserve the rest of the plant. Insecticides do not offer any real protection. The only truly-effective protection is netting or cheesecloth, which you may want to save for those more valuable plants.

Noise Makers

From Top: Cicada exoskeletons are typically found on the trunks and branches of trees; The sounds produced by these insects can reach volumes similar to that of a packed football stadium.

The 2024 periodical cicada event begins in late April and lasts for about six weeks. It is quite a natural phenomenon to experience. Enjoy it, because it will be gone before too long. After a few weeks, the adults will die out, and the young will hatch from the branches of trees and drop to the ground below. There, they will burrow until they find roots, which they will tap into for the long haul, feeding on the juices of the plant for

another 13 years.

I may know far more now than I did when I wrote that first article back in 2011. But here I am, still chasing bugs, taking photos and telling folks all about them. I wonder where I will be in another 13 years, when the cicadas emerge again. Maybe I’ll still listen to them in my same yard, living out my days of retirement surrounded by the chittering of such an amazing species of insects.

For help on other home and garden questions, contact your local county Extension office or online at aces.edu.

~ Shane Harris is the County Extension Coordinator for Tallapoosa County.

Sun Festival

Kick off summer with 10 days of family-friendly fun

STORY BY BETSY ILER

The Alexander City Chamber of Commerce launches the 12th Annual Sun Festival on June 6, bookending 10 days of fun with free, live music events and filling the calendar with activities for everyone.

Strand Sessions kicks off this week at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 6. Bring your own food and beverages, or pick up dinner and drinks at restaurants and bars in the downtown arts and entertainment district as you listen to these local musicians play on the Strand Park lawn.

The music continues the next day, June 7, as Friday On The Green at Russell Crossroads welcomes Daniel and McDaniel from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, family and friends, picnics and coolers. Even the dogs are welcome, as long as they are on the leash.

Wake up early the next morning and visit the Alexander City Farmer’s Market from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. for fresh, locally grown produce and artisan works. The market will move to Calhoun Street this year to accommodate demolition work on Main Street at the traffic circle.

Then, slip around the corner to Strand Park from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. for Tykes in Trucks. A favorite Sun Festival activity, Tykes and Trucks gives kids the opportunity to explore big trucks and heavy-duty equipment. They can sit at the controls of a fire truck,

climb into the cab of a street sweeper, explore an ambulance and more. There will be music and kids’ games as well. Visit downtown merchants for food, drinks, special treats and shopping.

Monday is for medallion, as in the ever-popular medallion hunt. The first person to find it wins $200. The early morning riddle is broadcast at 6 a.m. on The Front Porch and again at 7 a.m. on Kowaliga Country 97.5. Look for the clue on the Sun Festival, Alexander City Chamber and Alex City Outlook Facebook pages at 6 a.m. and solve the riddle to reveal the medallion’s location. If the medallion has not been found by 3 p.m., a second clue will be released. Another medallion hunt will begin at 6 a.m. Tuesday morning, and hunts will continue through Saturday, June 15.

At 10 a.m. on Monday, the first of the week’s KidsFest activities will start. Magician Gary Ledbetter will amaze all at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library on Church Street in Alexander City.

That evening, pets will be on parade at Strand Park. Dress up your pup for the Superhero Pups costume contest to win prizes. Awards will be given for cutest costume, most creative costume, best themed costume, best handler/pet duo and best overall. Take your pup with you in the photo booth to make some memories in pictures. Dog-friendly vendors will be on site to help you choose the right chew toy or collar.

KidsFest returns from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday when Main Street Family Care presents a party at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Splashplex. In addition to the splashplex obstacles, there will be an inflatable water slide and a foam party. Enjoy a sweet treat from Kona Ice to top off a fun afternoon.

Then, it’s the grownups’ time to play – golf, but with a cruel twist. This four-person scramble event starts at 5:30 p.m. at Lake Winds Golf Course. The first nine holes are standard scramble rules. But after the dinner break, the back nine will be played in the dark, using glow-in-the-dark balls. The $45 entry fee includes a golf cart, dinner and glow-in-the-dark supplies. Space is limited, so sign up early by calling 256-234-3461.

Or, choose creativity over sports, and express yourself at the Canvas & Cocktails event in the Lake Martin Area United Way conference room at 6 p.m. Bring your beverage of choice. Pre-drawn canvas, paints and treats will be provided. Admission is $35. Space is limited, so sign up early.

On Wednesday, play bingo from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Betty Carol Graham Technology Center. It’s free to play, and there will be sweet treats and prizes for the winners.

Kids get a chance to be creative from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at The Wright Angle gallery and frame shop on Broad Street. Pre-register at the Alexander City Chamber of

Fun For All Ages

Clockwise from Previous Page Left: Daily medallion finders win $200 in prize money; Lawn games are commonplace at Friday On The Green; Cotton candy never fails to delight children; Owners and pets dress to a theme for the dog parade; Jazz Fest opens in Strand Park.

Commerce for a 30-minute session. A $2 charge per child will cover art supplies.

From 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., kids can join the line at Carlisle’s for a Build Your Own Sundae event. An icecream feast for the imagination, this activity is what dreams are made of.

Wrap up the day’s excitement at 6 p.m. with gratitude, as the praise music teams from local churches perform at the Central Alabama Community College Betty Carol Graham Technology Center. Bring a nonperishable food item to be donated to area food banks. Hamburgers, hot dogs, drinks and snacks will be served.

Continue the theme of thanksgiving at 10:30 a.m. Thursday morning, as America’s Heroes at Bill Nichols Veterans Home are treated to live music and lunch. Take time to show appreciation for the sacrifices our veterans have made to protect our rights and freedom.

Take in a matinee at 2 p.m. when Playhouse Cinemas shows a new-release movie for only $2 per person. Check out the Sun Festival Alexander City Facebook page to learn what family-friendly movie will be playing. Concessions will be open for purchase.

Come watch or compete in the pickleball tournament at the Central Alabama Community College tennis complex at 5:30 p.m. This new event this year promises fun and excitement for seasoned pros and newbies alike. Pick a partner and register your team early to secure a

spot in the lineup. The format will be mixed doubles. Entry fee is $50 per team. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places.

If you get knocked out of the pickleball tournament early, head to The Local at 41 Main for trivia night. Take on the cerebral challenge at 6:30 p.m. Brush up on your history, science, music, movies and sports facts for a chance to win cash prizes.

The final KidsFest event starts at 8:30 a.m. for kids in local daycare facilities. They get free use of the City pool

until 10 a.m., when the public gets to take advantage of this free admission event. Bring a swimsuit, beach towel and sunscreen for a morning of wet and wild fun. Bring a cooler of drinks and snacks with you, as the concession stand will not be open (no glass and no alcohol allowed). Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Live Music Sun Fest culminates with a Saturday night concert at Lake Martin Amphitheater

Sun Festival enters its concluding act Friday night when Alexander City Jazz Festival takes the big stage at Strand Park. For more than 30 years, this two-day concert series has brought audiences to their feet with the music of performers like Zac Brown Band, Dickey Betts and the Tedesci-Trucks Band. Now in its 34th year, this event takes place at Strand Park in Alexander City and Lake Martin Amphitheater on Lake Martin. Follow Alex City Jazz Fest on Facebook for lineup information and event announcements.

Sun Festival is presented by Tallapoosa County Commissioner Steve Robinson (Dist. 2) and is made possible by a host of local businesses and individuals that support the effort with donations and volunteer hours. Check out the day-by-day guide, available at the chamber office and online at alexcitychamber.com, and please thank event and activity sponsors.

Get ready for a week to remember at the Alexander City Sun Festival.

Quick RefrigeratorPickled Onions

Pickled onions are tangy, crunchy delights that can add flavor and texture to any meal. With a simple process and ingredient list, you can easily and quickly create a jar of these flavorful delights to enjoy all summer long.

The tangy, crisp texture of pickled onions enhances a variety of recipes. Whether enjoyed in salads, nestled into sandwiches, or used as a garnish for tacos, their distinct flavor packs a delightful punch. The balance of acidity and sweetness in pickled onions adds depth to dishes and provides a refreshing contrast, making them a must-try for food lovers.

Vidalia onions are the best choice for this recipe. They are known for their sweetness and crispness and are plentiful during the spring and summer months. Red onions are a delicious alternative. They will turn the juice light pink, adding a touch of color to your dish.

GOOD EATS

~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.

The first time I tasted pickled onions, I was at a popular restaurant known for its delicious catfish. I was instantly hooked, and I knew I had to recreate this delightful condiment at home. Now, with a jar of homemade pickled onions in my fridge, I can conveniently add a pop of flavor to any dish.

Whether you’re adding a zesty twist to your favorite sandwich or jazzing up a simple salad, let the tangy crunch of pickled onions be your secret ingredient.

Quick Refrigerator Pickled Onions

INGREDIENTS

2 Vidalia onions, thinly sliced

1-1/2 cups apple cider vinegar

3/4 cup water

2 teaspoons salt

2 tablespoons sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

Slice onions thin. Separate rings and add to a quart jar. Pack into the jar tightly. In a small saucepan, add vinegar, water, salt and sugar. Bring to a simmer and heat until salt and sugar have dissolved. Pour the hot liquid over the onions to cover completely. Tap the jar gently to remove any air bubbles and add more liquid if needed. Place a tight-fitting lid on the jar. Let cool slightly. Place the jar in the refrigerator to chill for several hours or overnight before serving. When stored in the refrigerator, onions will last three to four weeks.

Gina Abernathy

Dear Lake Martin Community,

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you! Momentum Marine has joined your neighborhood with the recent acquisition of LakeSide Marina. Last fall, Andrew Campbell and Josh Russom, renowned for their successful boat dealerships in Georgia and Florida, chose to bring their expertise to our beautiful Lake Martin.

What’s New at Momentum’s LakeSide Marina?

. Les Webb, a familiar face and long-time Lake Martin resident, is leading our operations. Known for his deep community ties and exceptional service, Les is ready to bring his expertise to our marina.

. Upholding Momentum Marine’s legacy of transparency and unparalleled customer service, our Lake Martin team is committed to providing you with the best boating experience.

. We’ve spent the winter rejuvenating the marina! Enjoy our 25 new rental boats, enhanced facilities, and a diverse range of new manufacturer lines.

Come experience the new LakeSide Marina by Momentum Marine. Your friends at Momentum Marine Lake Martin. Meet LES WEBB Your Trusted Local Expert at the Helm

. We believe in strong community bonds. Stop by, say hello to Les and the team, and see the new face of Momentum’s Marine Lake Martin!

Join us for our Full Pool Party Saturday, April 20th to celebrate Lake Martin’s Seasonal filling! We will have Live music, BBQ, craft beer, acoustic music, boat demonstrations, and chance to meet Les and the team!

toReadyWork?

STORY BY BEN SMITH & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

It’s an age-old story.

A child is raised in a small town. There, that child attends elementary, middle and high school. He makes good grades and goes off to college.

When he graduates, he takes a job somewhere else, someplace he feels he can put his talents and education to use. It may be a larger city, far across the United States. Or, it may be a slightly more-populated town a few counties over.

On a large scale, this scenario can become an issue for that small town. It can create holes in the workforce, stunting the growth of new businesses and limiting the overall potential for an area’s economic growth.

It’s not the fault of those kids. People have a right to find meaning in their lives, and to do so may require moving to a new city. Many leave because there is an idea that, in small towns in the process of reestablishing economic vitality, there are few opportunities to find meaning. There is an idea that, to stay here, one’s education, skills and talents would not be used to their utmost capacities.

Jaden Tuck does not want to dissuade anybody from leaving. Tuck just wants to break the myth that there are no job opportunities for young people in Alexander City. Here, there are opportunities, Tuck said, for financial, spiritual and emotional fulfillment. Tuck wants to provide options

for the young workforce, those who have grown up in Alexander City, as well as those who have not.

“I want you to have the best possible experience, the best possible life, that you can have,” said Tuck. “And if I have any information that can get you to where you want to go, I would be doing you a disservice and myself a disservice if I didn’t at least put the opportunities in front of you.”

In April, Tuck was hired by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce to serve as the Workforce and Career Readiness Coordinator. He is the first person to be appointed to this position, which was created to help foster the chamber’s five-year plan. The plan focuses largely on retaining and developing a younger workforce.

Tuck’s job involves bridging the gap between education and business, working with places such as Central Alabama Community College and Alexander City Schools, as well as the Alexander City business community as a whole.

He will oversee the maintenance and expansion of current chamber programs. These may include the Gateway to Education Scholarship, which offers up to 64 credit hours of free college tuition for graduating

Right: Tuck is the Alexander City Chamber's first hire for Workforce and Career Readiness.

Working Man

seniors of Benjamin Russell High School. Or, Tuck may work with younger students, through the Alexander City Middle School CHOICES program, a two-day presentation focused on emphasizing the importance of finishing education through high school.

“I want to package things in a different light, put a different polish on it, and make it feel organic. Make it feel genuine; make it feel authentic; and convey to the people that it’s coming from a place of care,” said Tuck.

Tuck grew up in Alexander City and graduated from BRHS in 2018. From there, he moved to Livingston and attended school at the University of West Alabama. He earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree while playing linebacker on the football team.

For most of his life, Tuck wanted to follow in the footsteps of his uncle, former NFL defensive end Justin Tuck, and play football at the professional level. It had been his dream, but as his time in college drew to a close, Tuck had a chance to reevaluate his goals. After a lifetime of being so intently-focused on one direction, deciding what to do next took some time.

herself, worked multiple jobs and gave so much for him to have a better life.

“You know, that’s a big part of my motivation, being able to give that back to her and help her,” said Tuck. “I can’t wait to be able to do that.”

Tuck saw all those people who had set examples for him, who had sacrificed varying degrees of time, energy and money for his benefit, and he decided that he wanted to do the same.

Giving Back to the Community Tuck will help emphasize career opportunities for young adults.

So, Tuck made his way back to Alexander City, the area that, through so many different individuals, had given him so much. He found a job where he believes he can, at least in part, give back to the community that helped raise him.

“I want to convey that it’s coming from a person who, seven to 10 years ago, was in your seat and in your shoes,” said Tuck. “I went to the same classrooms. I had the same teachers, the same principles. I’m a real deal, recent product of Alex City, and an example of how you can come back and find opportunities for work within your city.”

He looked to his football coaches, who he said helped him develop as a man and as a leader. Tuck looked to his former principle, Dr. Wilson, who taught him how to craft a resume and how to speak confidently to large groups of people. And, most importantly to him, Tuck looked at the example set by his mother, who raised him by

Tuck is the caveat to the story of the small-town kid who moves away after college,

never to return: His actions are an undeniable example of the message he hopes to broadcast going forward.

Sounds & Sirens

Bringing back a tradition of music and fundraising

STORY BY BEN SMITH

PHOTOS BY BEN SMITH & CLIFF WILLIAMS

Alittle over 10 years ago, the streets of downtown Tallassee were a place to dance. Every spring, the Sweet Summer Night Street Dance took place in the parking lot behind Grove Station. Thousands attended the annual concert, turning the small, typically-quiet town of around 4,500 into a pop-up music festival.

Camping chairs covered almost every inch of the cracked asphalt and sidewalks. The bands set up their drums, microphones and sound equipment on the back of a large, flatbed trailer and played oldies. The songs rang throughout the downtown, echoing off the tall, brick buildings. The people sang and danced.

Time passed, and the street dance ended. For years, there was no seminal, downtown music event for the people of Tallassee to attend.

Eric Jones hoped to change that. As the Chief of the Tallassee Volunteer Fire Department, Jones is constantly looking for ways to fund his department. Volunteer fire departments in small towns are funded largely by the donations they receive, and fire equipment is not cheap. Chief Jones’ department isn’t looking for a new firetruck, or even to add any paid positions. Right now, they’re looking to finance other equipment that is old and outdated. They need new turnout gear – the respiratory equipment, coats, pants and helmets that protect the firefighters as they put themselves in harm’s way, most of whom do so without a paycheck.

Gear prices have only risen in the past years. Chief Jones said fully outfitting a single firefighter costs around $12,000. Its money that his department of volunteers does not have.

“With the increases in gear … it’s outrageous,” said Jones. “We have to have these things to protect ourselves, and to help people whenever the emergency comes.”

Chief Jones is not a man who likes to ask others for money, but he saw an opportunity to help his department as well as his community. And like any good-natured civil servant would, he set out to do what he thought was right, what he thought would put more good into the place he loves.

That was eight years ago, when he led the charge at creating a music festival in the field behind the fire department training center. In his own words, the

festival was ultimately a failure. Two years in a row, it had rained on the day of the concert, and resulting in low attendance levels and ticket sales.

But in April of this year, the idea finally came to fruition. The Tallassee and Friendship volunteer fire departments hosted the first-annual Sounds and Sirens Downtown Music Festival. And this time, it did not rain.

Around 250 people flocked to the downtown area, unfolding chairs and cracking beers pulled from coolers. There were vendors in trucks selling hamburgers, hot dogs, snow cones and other treats. Grove Station offered plates of crawfish, corn and potatoes a few hundred feet from the concert.

Dancing in the Street

Left: Brandon Jordan finishes a guitar solo alongside his bassist; Above: couples danced to the tunes of slow songs under moonlit skies in Tallassee once again.

The bands were once again set up on the back of a flatbed trailer. Folk, country and rock music was played by Mother Moonpie, Brandon Jordan and Jessie Wilson. Covers of popular songs were played alongside some originals.

In total, Jones estimated the event brought in a profit of around $3,800, to be split between the two departments. Its not enough money to buy even a quarter of the equipment necessary to fully outfit a firefighter.

“We're gonna try to do a bit more to get the word out to more areas next year,” said Jones. “My goal is to have some radio advertisements, and in the years after we will just slowly kind of build it up. I would love to get it to the 1,200-person attendance the street dance had. Then, we’ll be able to go out and buy the equipment and stuff like that we need.”

But the event was a success, said Chief Jones. It was the first step toward a tradition he hopes spans years into the future. He plans to put every cent earned this year into next year’s event, slated for May 3. All he wants to see is a little more growth each year. And if that can happen, the town will be a few steps closer to regaining that feeling that was lost with the Sweet Summer Street Dance.

Last month, locals who had grown up attending the street dance, who had fond childhood memories of listening to Brown-Eyed Girl being played three times in the same night, danced again. They danced along to the finger-twittling guitar solos with jubilee and disregard. And when the slow songs came on, they held one another in each other’s arms and rocked back and forth to the beat of the music, just as they had done those years ago.

Got healthy bones?

May is “Bone Health and Osteoporosis” month. But why should you care?

According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, one out of every two women, and one in four men aged 50 and older will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Twenty-four percent of hip fracture patients aged 50 and older die in the year following their fracture. Now, have I got your attention?

Osteoporosis (literally, “porous bone”) is a disease of aging. As you grow older, your body loses bone mass and bone density. The osteoblasts – the cells that make new bone – slow down with age. In youth, these osteoblasts are young and vigorous, allowing you to build more bone than you lose. That process peaks anywhere from age 25 to 30; then, it begins the slow decline. Luckily, there are things you can do to help slow the downhill slide. By now, you’re probably asking yourself if you are at risk of developing osteoporosis. There are several risk factors that might make you more susceptible, the primary one being age. As we age, women begin to produce less estrogen and men produce less testosterone. This decrease in hormones speeds up the bone-loss process. That’s a likely reason that women are more at risk for osteoporosis: During menopause, estrogen production drops off drastically. And though many wives argue that men also go through MAN-opause, nevertheless, testosterone levels tend to decay at a much slower rate.

Here are some other risk factors to look out for:

n Ethnicity – Caucasian and Asian women are at higher risk than African American and Hispanic women.

n Body Structure – Small, thin-boned women are at greater risk.

n Diet – An inadequate intake of calcium and Vitamin D increases risk.

n Exercise – An inactive lifestyle or extended bed rest tends to weaken bones.

n Smoking – Women who smoke have lower levels of estrogen compared to nonsmokers, and may also absorb less calcium from their diets.

n Long-term use of certain medication –especially steroids, estrogen-receptor blockers in women with breast cancer and androgen deprivation treatments in men with prostate cancer can all increase the risk of developing osteoporosis.

n Alcohol Consumption – Heavy alcohol consumers are more prone to bone loss and fractures due to poor nutrition and increased risk of

MEDICAL NEWS

George Miranda

falling.

Some of these risk factors, such as body structure and ethnicity, are largely outside of your control; however, there are many others that are completely up to you. Besides quitting tobacco and reducing alcohol consumption, the two major tools in your shed are diet and exercise.

A diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D will help to stave off the effects of osteoporosis. Try to eat or drink four servings a day of Vitamin-D fortified milk, cheese, yogurt and/or calciumsupplemented orange juice. Other foods that are rich in calcium include collard greens, turnip greens, mustard greens, kale, bok choy, broccoli, and okra. Meanwhile, avoid consuming too much salt, alcohol and caffeine, all of which interfere with your body’s ability to absorb calcium.

Your body also uses Vitamin D to absorb calcium. While you can get some Vitamin D from your diet –milk, liver and fatty fish like salmon and tuna – the main source of Vitamin D is the sun. Your skin manufactures Vitamin D from sunlight. But sunlight (specifically ultraviolet rays from sunlight) also causes skin cancer, and doctors are always telling you to wear long sleeves and hats and to slather sunscreen on any exposed skin. Unfortunately, this prevents your skin from absorbing sunlight and making Vitamin D. It’s a bit of a paradox, and there is definitely a balance that needs to be found.

A possible solution could be vitamin supplementation. If you’re not getting enough calcium from your diet, I can pretty much guarantee that you’re not getting enough Vitamin D. You’ll want to talk to your physician about supplementing both.

Teens and young adults (11 to 24 years), because their bones are still growing, should get between 1,200 and 1,500 milligrams of calcium per day, either through diet, vitamin supplementation or a combination of both. The same is true for breastfeeding women. Most adults aged 25 to 50 years old should take in 1,000 mg daily. Postmenopausal women and men older than 65 should get 1,500 mg of calcium daily. The recommended daily amount of Vitamin D is 400 International units (IU). Talk with your doctor about how much Vitamin D you should be taking.

Weight-bearing exercise is another major weapon against osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercise includes walking, jogging, weightlifting and aerobic dancing.

Walking is easy and requires virtually no equipment, except a good pair of walking shoes. And you don’t have to be Arnold Schwarzenegger to lift weights. Five-pound dumbbells are a good place for first-timers to start. Consider signing up for an evaluation with a trainer or exercise physiologist. There are several workout facilities in Alexander City.

Osteoporosis is diagnosed through a bone mineral density test, usually a DEXA scan (DEXA stands for dual energy X-ray absorptiometry), which measures bone density with low-dose X-rays. Medicare covers DEXA scans at 65 and every two years thereafter. If you are at high risk for osteoporosis, you can get scanned at an earlier age. Your physician has to order the DEXA scan and will interpret the results for you. This scan is available at Russell Medical and at several other physician practices in town.

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, you may be treated with a variety of prescription drugs, as well as continuing your calcium and Vitamin D supplements and your diet and exercise programs. There are a variety of oral prescriptions your physician can give you. If the oral drugs don’t provide sufficient improvement, or if you are not able to tolerate the side effects, there are several injectable drugs that are very effective for treating osteoporosis, and they just so happen to be available at our infusion suite at the Cancer Center.

Forteo and Evenity are used to treat more severe bone loss. Forteo is a daily self-injected medication, while Evenity is given once a month for a year by a healthcare provider. Bone density is then maintained by either a once-ayear 15-minute infusion of zoledronic acid, or a twice-a-year subcutaneous injection of denosumab.

These are very effective treatments, but the sooner you start your diet and exercise program, the longer you can put off the drug therapy.

~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center.

SUMMERTIME IS A SPECIAL TIME,

IS YOUR HEART HEALTHY?

Summertime means time on the water, time away from work, and more time with family and friends.

Make sure your heart is healthy and ready for the season with an appointment at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Russell Medical.

Kevin Sublett, MD, is board-certified in cardiovascular care and offers the latest in prevention, testing, and treatment for keeping your heart healthy.

Our clinic is backed by the knowledge and expertise of UAB Medicine, including:

• Advanced ultrasound testing

• Nuclear medicine imaging in fully accredited labs

• Management of cardiac rhythm disorders

• Interventional cardiology care

Our expanded clinical team is ready to serve you. Schedule a visit today by calling 256-234-2644.

Making the most of your home's equity

While the costs of goods and services may be up, the good news for Lake Martin homeowners is that home values are on the rise, too.

This could be a financial ace up the sleeve for many homeowners. Rising home values often means a rise in equity. If your home’s current market value exceeds the amount you owe on the mortgage loan, you could use your home as collateral to open a home equity line of credit (HELOC).

This revolving line of credit might be ideal for larger expenses, from college tuition to home renovations and weddings. Plus, it can even be used as an emergency fund. And as you pay it off, those funds become available to use again.

MONEY

MATTERS

With that in mind, let’s look at some of the ways I’ve seen my clients make their home equity work for them.

Major Purchases

Whether you’re looking to buy a car on your own terms, a boat or even a wedding band, a HELOC could be a great way to get a better interest rate on your purchase. Your line of credit can be used whenever and for whatever, making it a convenient way to make any purchase. Here in Lake Martin, we see a lot of homeowners use HELOCs to buy boats for their lake homes.

Emergencies

You can’t plan for everything, but you can be ready for anything. Having a line of credit at your fingertips could bring you peace of mind if disaster strikes. From air conditioners breaking, to car repairs and other emergencies, HELOCs offer the comfort of knowing unplanned expenses are covered. I have a client here in Lake Martin who has had his HELOC for over 20 years for the sole purpose of mitigating any costly emergencies.

Renovations

You can’t go wrong making home improvements, and a HELOC could be a great way to make them happen. Recently, I helped a client close on a HELOC used to build a new garage and redo a driveway, adding huge value to their home’s curb appeal. Using this line of credit to make improvements to the property could increase the home value and pay dividends down the line once it’s time to sell.

Life Events

Based on my experience, the most common usage for a HELOC has been for weddings and college funds. These major life events are often a huge drain on finances, and you may have to spend years saving for them. A HELOC could be an alternative means of covering the costs of either.

Vacations

While HELOCs could be used for needs, they could also be used for any personal investment of your choosing –including an investment in yourself. One of the best ways to spend time and money is reinvesting in yourself through vacations and time off, and a HELOC could help make that happen. This line of credit might be a much better option for financing your vacations than running up a credit card.

HELOCS are convenient and cost effective, so if you want to put your home value to work for you, it’s a great time to have a conversation with your banker about a HELOC. With your home equity at your fingertips, the sky’s the limit.

~ Teresa Grier is the vice president of the Valley Bank Alexander City branch. She has been banking in the area for over 35 years.

*This article is for informational purposes only. Any views, thoughts, and opinions expressed herein are solely that of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Valley National Bank.

Teresa Grier

1. Brett Augsberger and Katy Schaefer

2. Katie Morgan and Hunter Jackson

3. Victoria and Woodie Fritz

4. Maddie Medler and Gabriel Pullen

5. Emma Schopin, Carolina Bell, Devin Gregg and Tristan Heffner

6. Logan Bosely and Alicia and Savannah Busch

7. Omar Talbot, James Gilbert and Maggie Smith

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2.

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Lindsey and Derek Walls

Buster and Laurie Russell and Pierce and Tyler Wall

Eric Miller and Mabry Cook

4. Tricia Kirk and Janet Kelly

Jim Peace and Dwight Henderson

6. Bob and Carley Hines and Bragan and Banks Petrey

7. Derek, Miranda, Tammy and David Jackson

8. Willie Sturkie

9. John Howell, Mark Gilliland and Lacey Howell

10. Katie Turner, Tess and Stacey McKinley, Allison Bazzell, Madeline Traylor, Mark Turner, Eric McKinley, Buster Coker, Tripp and Trevor McKinley

Russell Marine in-water Boat Show

The Ridge Marina

1. Hugh and Jamie Lee

2. Donald Lewis and Ronnie Powell

3. Kim and Don Ward

4. Chad Gilliland and Lily Combs

5. Mitchell Storm and Pete O’Rico

6. Jackson Lilly and Randy Kirkland

Kowaliga Idol

Saturday, April 6, 2024

Alabama's Little Bit of Texas

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2.

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6.

7.

8.

Chelsey Whitt and Julliana Dykes

Justin and Caleb Bice

Landon Tidwell and Brennon Wright

Emily and Steven Smith

Adam and Kealey Clark

Callie Baker

Max McClendon and Melody Rathel

Emma Merrell, Kim Hammond and Amber Macks

9. Luke and Kevin Keel

1. Claire Scroggins, Eric Jones, Emily Watkins, Elsie Scroggins, and Rose, Donna and Magnolia Carter

2. Eli Rucker, Ruby and Emerald Gibson and Brannan Rucker

3. Allison Bazzell and Melody Burton

4. Steven Thornton and Courtney Melton

5. Robert and Paula Matthews

6. Casey Ogburn, Declan Eargle, Lindsay Phelan, Luke Eargle, Travis Ogburn and Remy Eargle

Tommy G at DPAC

Thursday, April 18, 2024

1. Tommy G

2. Prencella Hamby

3. Kay Gassaway

4. Milton and Carolyn Adams

5. Nancy Wheeler, Donna Hebson and Jackie Wilbourn

6. Nancy Curly, Jeff Bonebrake and Kim Walls

7. Jerry and Donna Purcell

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT Calendar

Adventures begin this summer

Safari animals will lead the summer reading adventures at Mamie’s Place Children’ s Library in Alexander City this year. Registration opens May 13 through June 8 online and in person at 318 Church Street.

“Registration on the app is very user friendly,” said Library Assistant Theresa Holley. “Once they register, they can start logging books.”

The goal is that each child reads 10 books during the summer break from school, basically one book per week. Those who meet the goal will win an incentive prize bag with animal stampers, compass key holders, safari print glasses and more, Holley said.

Every time children check out books at the library, their names will be entered in a weekly drawing for a chance to win clip-on book lights, battery-operated mini fans, stuffed dogs, water bottles or more.

In addition, the library has scheduled programs all summer long for entertainment, education and just plain

fun. Ventriliquist Gene Cordova will kick off the programs at a launch party at 10 a.m. on June 3 at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Gymnasium. Animal Tales, magic shows, games, crafts and more activities are scheduled through July 25, when the summer reading program concludes with a visit from Oxbow Meadow Reptiles.

Readers have until July 20 to log books online or bring completed log pages to the library for summer reading credits.

Registration is not required to attend the programs. The presentations are free and open to the public.

To register online, visit alexandercity. gov/library/page/ mamies-placechildrens-library and scroll to Beanstack Reading Challenge.

Numberous studies have shown that children who engage with a solid summer reading program better maintain their reading skills between grades. Children who participate in summer reading programs also demonstrate better fluency, vocabulary and comprehension.

The Thrill of Reading Clockwise from top left: Animal Tales brings live animals; Reading can be magical; Cordova teaches that reading is fun.

LAKE REGION EVENTS

Now through July 4

Crank4Bank

Registration is now open for this year’s tagged fishing tournament on Lake Martin, which includes the chance to win a $1 million cash prize, a new bass boat and more, as well as $1,500 per tagged bass caught. This year’s tag color is orange, and every tagged fish caught by a registered angler is a winner. Registration is $120, which also includes entry into a virtual fishing event running concurrent with Crank4Bank. Visit crank4bank.com for details, rules and registration.

May 13-19

Throw Away Days

Here’s your chance to clean out the storage shed. Dumpsters will be available at no charge to residents at the following locations. Items that are not allowed include liquids (paint, paint thinner, pesticides, etc.); appliances with compressors (refrigerators, freezers, etc.); tires; batteries; light bulbs; TVs; propane tanks; hazardous or medical waste. On May 13 and 14, dumpsters will be available at the Union Community Center and at Double Bridges on state Route 63. May 15 and 16, dumpsters will be located at the intersection of Young’s Ferry and Mullican roads and at Old Daviston School. May 17 through May 19, dumpsters will be located at the Tallapoosa County Annex at 395 Lee Street in Alexander City.

May

14-16

Children’s

Play Auditions

Alexander City Theatre II will hold auditions for children aged 5 to 18 years from 5 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. for the Disney Junior musical version of Sister Act. There will be a movie night and a few choreography and music rehearsals in June with full rehearsals starting in midJuly. Performances will be held in late August. Auditions and rehearsals will take place at ACT II, 216 Tallapoosa Street, Alexander City. For more information, contact Christale Tuck at 256-749-6260.

May 16

Hydrangea 101

Tallapoosa County Master Gardeners will host Rip Weaver, former executive director of Aldridge Gardens, for this tutorial on hydrangeas, one of the most popular garden species in the South. The presentation will begin at 11 a.m. at

Red Ridge United Methodist Church in Dadeville. The program is free.

May 18

Dixie Sailing Club

Fleet Open House

Sailors and non-sailors from the lake community can register to become familiar with the Lake Martin club’s two primary fleet boats – the Catalina 22 and the MC Scow. Email Commodore Jim Simons at jsimons944@aol.com for details.

May 18

2024 Everything’s Art in the Park

Everything’s Art and Pennington Park will host Dadeville’s 5th Annual Everything’s Art in the Park on Saturday, May 18, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pennington Park. The event will feature handmade crafts, jewelry, food, artwork and more, all created by local and regional artists. Friendly, leashed pets are welcome. Vendor applications must be completed by May 3. Email Kurt Pfitzner at everythingsartguild14@gmail.com or call 770-328-2094 for an application. Visit the Everything’s Art and Pennington Park Facebook pages for more information.

May 18

Blues in the Park

Pack lawn chairs, coolers and lots of sunscreen for a full day of fun at Strand Park in Alexander City. The 8th Annual Blues in the Park starts at 10 a.m. and winds down at 9 p.m. There will be vendor booths, specials from local restaurants within walking distance and a variety of soulful artists from across the Southeast at this free downtown music festival.

May 18

East Alabama Horseman’s Association Show

The mid-season show will be held at Walkabout Ranch in New Site. Events start at 11 a.m. Timed events begin after 3 p.m. For information, call Robert Reams at 334-502-2402.

May 18

Women’s Wake Clinic

This clinic is just for the girls. Bring some friends or family to River North Marina from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for some low-pressure wake instruction on

the water. Cost is $50 per person. Contact Tori Donahoo at 256-786-2034 or email her at tdonahoo@russelllands.com for more information.

May 18

Tails on Trails Fun Run

This 4-mile fun run at 8 a.m. includes a 1-mile option and will benefit Lake Martin Animal Sanctuary. Register at raceentry.com/races/tails-on-trails/2024/ register. Meet at 1428 Coosa County Road 2, Equality.. Entry fee is $35 for adults; $25 for children; and $7 for animals.

May 21

Broadway, Pop and Patriotic

Join the Dadeville Community Chorus in concert at 7 p.m. for a musical Memorial Day celebration. Tickets are $10 in advance at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com but $15 at the door.

May

21

Focaccia Making Class

Get your hands messy in this Grove Station class that will walk you through each step of making a perfectly baked fresh loaf of bread to take home. Bring your friends, make it a date night or come alone and meet new friends at the class at 6 p.m. Tickets are $70 and are available at tickets.atgrovestation.com. Grove Station is located at 19 Sistrunk Street in Tallassee.

May 20-27

Pennington Park Memorial Day Observance

Pennington Park will observe Memorial Day from May 20 through May 27. Over 2,000 American flags will be displayed in the park to honor deceased members of the military. Markers will be placed to recognize veterans by name, rank and service component. If you would like a marker placed in Pennington Park to honor your loved one at no cost to you, message “Pennington Park” on Facebook with the individual’s name(s), rank and branch of service, or call/text Kurt Pfitzner at 334-233-9852. Only 300 markers are available.

May 22

AACA May Meeting with Raymond VanTilburg

Opelika artist Raymon VanTilburg will be the guest speak for the May meeting

LAKE REGION EVENTS

of the Artists Association of Central Alabama at 9:30 a.m. in the Senior Center at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City. VanTilburg is a successful, self-taught fantasy and surrealist artist who will share his approach to color, tools and the progression from original concept to finished piece. AACA membership is $20 per year and entitles members to attend workshops, demonstrations in a variety of genres, field trips and more. Call June Dean at 334-313-7533.

May

23, 30 & June 6, 13

Wake Clinics

Get some experienced, professional help developing that new wake trick you want to learn this summer by signing up for this Russell Marine clinic at River North Marina. Bring your board and life jacket. Group 1 starts at 3:30 p.m. and finishes at 5 p.m. Group 2 starts at 5:30 p.m. and finishes at 7 p.m. Cost is $35 per person, which includes use of the boat and any additional equipment or accessories needed. Call 256-786-2034 or email tdonahoo@russelllands.com to get on the schedule.

May

24

&

25

RXR Fest

Kick off the official start of summer at Lake Martin at the 11th Annual RXR Fest. This year’s lineup includes Harvey Street at 6:30 p.m. on Friday night, followed by Easy Honey at 8 p.m. Saturday’s music will start with The Bank Walkers; then, Hotel Fiction returns to the lake area to close out Memorial Day weekend. Bring lawn chairs and blankets and the pup on a leash for this free annual summer opener.

May 24

Emporium Wine

20th Anniversary

A wine tasting from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. will feature wines from around the world to kick off the holiday weekend and celebrate Emporium Wine’s anniversary. Call 256-212-9463 for details.

May 25

Storytelling Festival

Tallassee’s Friends of Tuckabatchee will host a storytelling festival at the Patterson Log Cabin at 355 Sims Avenue. The event will begin with music by Highway 280 Bluegrass at 2 p.m., followed by four

storytellers: Delores Hydock, Carol Cain, Bill King and Randy Nix. After dinner, a second storytelling session will begin at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 and include dinner. For more information, contact Bob Taunton at banjo.bob@aol.com.

May 25

Cornhole Tournament

Copper’s Grill at StillWaters hosts this annual tournament series with music by Blackberry Breeze. The first contest is a blind draw partner tournament with cash prizes for multiple placements. In the second tournament, bring your own partner, and the winning team takes all. The fun begins at 9 a.m. Call Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce at 256-825-4019 to register.

May 25 & 26

Art on the Lake

Explore a variety of handmade goods crafted by artists from the Lake Martin area and across the Southeast. This annual art show at Russell Crossroads will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. For more information, contact Sydnee Riley at 256-212-1431.

May 26

Beach Boys Sail On

Beach Boys tribute band Sail On will appear in concert at Pursell Farms at 5 p.m. Tickets for music only are $39.20. Add Fiarhope ‘Boil & BBQ’ Beach Dinner for $35 per person (plus taxes and fees). Visit pursellfarms.com/events for more information.

June 1

Tallapoosa River Fest

Registration is now open for this oneday paddle trip on the Harold Banks Canoe Trail from Horseshoe Bend Bridge to Jaybird Landing. The 6-mile route flows through pristine wilderness, Cahaba lilies, flat water and beautiful shoals. This year, the festival has partnered with the Town of New Site for a family-friendly event featuring vendors, games, arts and crafts and a cornhole tournament to benefit the New Site Volunteer Fire Department. Paddlers’ $50 entry fee includes a shuttle service, post-paddle cookout, participant T-shirt and a swag bag of goodies. All paddlers must be 12 years of age or older. No novice paddlers on this event. Must provide your own canoe or kayak for the trip.

Rent through local outfitters. Register at explorelakemartin.com.

June

1

Dixie Sailing Club

Introduction to Sailing

DSC’s annual gift to the lake community is a free class to introduce children and adults to the wonderful world of sailing. Kids are trained in righting a capsized boat and sailing on their own. Parents may sail on members’ large boats. There is no cost, but registration is required. Visit dixiesailingclub.com for information.

June 1

Tommy’s Improv Playhouse

Laugh your socks off at 6:30 p.m. with an evening of improv comedy with this troupe from the East Alabama area. Tickets are $10 in advance at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com and $15 at the door.

June 3-Aug. 2

Trailblazers Summer Camp

Enroll children ages 5 to 12 for only the weeks when care is needed. Activities will include science experiments, arts and crafts, sports, games and other activities. Cost is $100 for the first child in a family; significant discounts are offered for multiple children. Morning and afternoon snacks and lunch are provided. Learn more at lmtrailblazers.org/files.

June 3

Summer Reading Kickoff

Ventriloquist Gene Cordova

Gather at 10 a.m. in the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Gymnasium to kick off the Mamie’s Place Children’s Library summer reading program. Ventriloquist and comedian Gene Cordova inspires children to read through fun with Ollie the Donkey and Puppy. Learning through laughter helps children to discover that reading can be a lifelong adventure. Visit alexandercityal.gov/library/page/mamiesplace-childrens-library for a calendar of children’s events all summer long.

June 4-7 & 18-21

Dixie Sailing Club

Youth Sailing Camp

The DSC Youth Program conducts sailing camps for youth ages 7 to 17 from June 4 through 7 and 18 through 21. The 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. sessions cover basic

sailing skills and water safety with some STEM sessions. Discounts for siblings and friends. Visit dixiesailingclub.com for details.

June 6-15 Sun Festival

Alexander City celebrates the season with nine days of fun, games, activities and events, from the Tykes in Trucks extravaganza downtown to the daily medallion hunt with cash prizes. . Look for the full schedule of events in upcoming copies of Lake and Lake Martin Living magazines and visit the Sun Festival Alexander City Facebook page for up-to-the-minute information.

June 6

Strand Sessions

Lake Martin Young Professionals presents free live music from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Strand Park on the first Thursday of every month thorugh August. Bring food and coolers or purchase dinner and drinks at local restaurants and bars in the arts and entertainment district. For more information, visit the Lake Martin Young Professionals on Facebook.

June 8

Friends of Children’s Harbor Auction

The 18th Annual Live and Silent Auction at Willow Point Golf & Country Club from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. will raise funds to support camps at Lake Martin’s Children’s Harbor. Tickets are $150 per person. Reserved seating is $75 per person. Sponsorships are available. purchase tickets at childrensharbor.com/ event or contact Frannie McBrayer at franniemcbrayer@childrensharbor.com.

June 8

East Alabama Horseman’s Association Show

The circuit returns to Whistle Stop Ranch Riding Club in Childersburg’s 4C Arena at Cedar Creek Cowboy Church. For more details, contact Robbin Nail Housch at 520-490-1194. Events begin at 11 a.m.

June

8

Learning to Lift with Lift E-Foils

This clinic picks up where the previous (May 11) session left off and

will focus on learning to lift the board off the water from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at River North Marina. First timers and seasoned veterans are welcome to attend at their own pace. Cost is $125. Contact Tori Donahoo at 256-658-3088 or email TDonahoo@russelllands.com.

June

9 & 23

Pennington Park Farmers Marketplace

The Farmers Marketplace is a producers-only market at Pennington Park in Dadeville. The markets offer home-grown produce and homemade goods from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Food trucks will be on site, and live music will be provided in the afternoon when available. If interested in participating, email klpfitzner@gmail.com or call him at 334-233-9851 to request an application.

June 11

4th Annual Summer BBQ Social

Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce will hold this annual blowout at 6 p.m. Location and more details coming soon. Call the chamber at 256-825-4019.

June 14 & 15

Alex City Jazz Fest

For more than 30 years, Alexander City’s two-day concert series has been free to thousands of visitors. Past performers include Zac Brown Brand, St. Paul & the Broken Bones and Delta Rae. Friday’s concerts take place in Strand Park, and Saturday night, the music moves to Lake Martin Amphitheater. Look for the lineup and more information in future issues of Lake and Lake Martin Living magazines and visit Alex City Jazz Fest on Facebook.

Season-long Events

Farmers Market

The Alexander City Farmers Market will move to Calhoun Street downtown this summer. Arrive early as the market is open only from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., and you want to ensure the best pick of locally grown produce and other artisan goods. The market will run every Saturday through September. For more information, contact Main Street Alexander City at 256-307-3949.

Driving & Docking

Sign up for free driving and docking classes from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Singleton’s Blue Creek Marina. Gain confidence in maneuvering safely. Call 256-825-8888 to reserve a spot in the class of your choice.

n Pontoons: June 6, July 11 & Aug. 1

n Sterndrives: June 13, July 18 & Aug. 8

n Towboats: May 16, June 20, July 25 & Aug. 15.

Yoga on the Green

Bring your mat, water and a towel to the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m. every Saturday from May 25 through Sept. 28 to start your day at the lake well. Certified instructors are provided by Russell Lands for this free event.

Friday On The Green

Every Friday night all summer long (except on RXR and Jazz Festival weekends), Russell Lands hosts free music and lawn games on the Town Green from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, coolers, kids and the pup on a leash to start your weekend at the lake with family and friends.

Wellborn Musclecar Museum

The Wellborn Musclecar Museum collection of great American automobiles of the 1960s and 1970s is open 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 for free. To arrange discounted group tours or private tours, email wellbornmusclecarmuseum@ gmail.com or call 256-329-8474.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

Come see naturalist Marianne and her lively nature presentations at the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature. Check the calendar at RussellLands.com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Explore

Lake Martin

Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

River North Marina 256-397-1500

Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700

Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793

SpringHouse 256-215-7080

Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

Acapulco Mexican Gril 334-283-2725

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

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

Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

Kowaliga Whole Health 334-857-1816

Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847

Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717

Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820

Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293

Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc 334-857-2443

Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

Dixie Sailing Club

Lakeshore Pharmacy 256-825-0063

Momentum Marine at Lake Martin 256-825-9286

Spencer Heating and Air at Lake Martin 256-373-3165

Bolton Cove 256-392-7524

DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE!

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ALEXANDER CITY

Robinson Iron

A & M Plumbing

Carlos

The Body Shop

Walgreens

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

Jake's

Moore Wealth Management

Carlisle's

Emporium Wine

Longleaf Antique Mall

Playhouse Cinemas

Chamber of Commerce

Winn Dixie

Re/Max Around the Lake City Hall

A&E Metal

Regions Bank

Marathon - 280

Renfroe's Market

Russell Medical Center

Piggly Wiggly - New Site Foodland

DADEVILLE

Chamber of Commerce

Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery

Root 49 Salon

Ellaby Boutique, LLC

Alabama Power

Siggers

Siggers Barbershop

Fusion Cafe

Dadeville Library

CAMP HILL

Link Gas Station

EQUALITY

Five Star Plantation

Equality Food Mart

Southern Star

Parker Creek Marina

Charles Borden

ECLECTIC

Lake Breeze Realty

Offshore Marina

Tuesday, June 18

Thursday, June 20

Ihad the great pleasure of attending my first Robbie Potter Horsemanship Clinic last month. And It will certainly not be my last time.

I am preparing my young mare, Scarlett, for our first horse show, and this was a great opportunity for the two of us to get off the farm. I took the backroads, and the drive was less than an hour long.

Culture Shock Lessons from Horseback

This was the first clinic I have ever done, and it was the first time I drove a horse trailer by myself. I borrowed the trailer from a friend, and John helped me out on the first day, patiently guiding me while I hooked up and backed up the trailer. I don’t know how people ever did that prior to back-up cameras! I had long wanted to learn to do this myself and become more independent, so I could take advantage of the many great riding trails in the area.

We successfully trailered and got to the clinic, where we met Robbie. Robbie was a tall, John Wayne-type cowboy. I immediately knew I would like him. Scarlett is a big, red Oldenburg, and Robbie joked “You didn’t bring a horse today!”

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Scarlett behavior-wise. There were cows, donkeys, dogs and a million birds around the farm. Despite the ample distractions, she was great, and even stole the show when she allowed a big, noisy, plastic tarp to be rubbed all over her.

The clinic began with all the participants on the ground and their horses on leadlines. Scarlett was distracted and didn’t want to stand still. Robbie gave walked over and tookn her from me. He told her she was “with him,” and they needed to get my tack trunk and bring it into the ring. She dutifully followed.

Scarlett needed a job. She was bored and didn’t want to stand still. You can refocus a horse, or for that matter, a person, when you give them a job to do. We all flail if we do not know where we are going or what the assignment is.

Another exercise involved walking and trotting the horse in a straight line through two PVC pipes, laid out to create a chute. When I wanted to turn left or right, I simply

Horse Education

Lacey and her horse, Scarlett, pose alongside the other attendees of the Robbie Porter Horsemanship Clinic.

turned my head, keeping my hands still. Scarlett went in the direction my head turned. It taught me how to stay straight on your horse.

Staying straight was the goal of the weekend. It’s a simple concept, one that is crucial if you want to jump on the horse. The idea is this: Ride straight to the jump; keep the horse’s body straight; and keep staying straight even after completing the jump. If your body is straight, then your mind is straight.

Lacey Howell

On the last day, when it was time to go home, Scarlett didn’t want to load onto the trailer. This was the first time all weekend that she didn’t quickly load up. I tried for about 15 minutes before Robbie stepped in to help me. He explained that if Scarlett could stand with all four feet lined up, then she would load. He used his flag aid to physically encourage her to move into what he called, “her tracks.” She twisted and wiggled, and it took another 20 minutes before she finally loaded onto the trailer. I only scratched the surface of horse training, riding and jumping that weekend. My relationship with my horse is only as good as my relationship with myself. If I am confident, she will be confident. She and I do not run from conflict. We face it together, and that is a lesson I hope to bring into other aspects of my life.

~ 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 on Instagram @LaceyHowell and her Facebook page.

Russell Medical Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine Awarded for Excellence

Dr. Regina Phillips recognized with National President’s Circle Award for Clinical Excellence in Patient Satisfaction and Clinical Outcomes. Dr. Phillips is the is the only physician in the country to receive this top honor from Healogics for 2023!

Russell Medical Wound Care and Hyperbaric Medicine achieved outstanding clinical outcomes for twelve consecutive months, including a patient satisfaction rate higher than 92 percent!