Elmore County Living June 2018

June 2018

Elmore County Living

Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm July 4th Festivities

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Millbrook's Ann Harper

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From the Editor's Desk

STAFF

When I first went off to college, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I always knew I loved to write and ultimately decided to pursue journalism as a career.

After a few missteps and a tough job market, I opted to change gears. I took a risk, knew I always loved the hospitality industry and attended culinary school. For a few years, I worked in the kitchen life and moved to multiple cities throughout the country. It was exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping and really hard work.

Now don’t get me wrong, I still love to cook and I do miss the culinary world, but fate had a way of bringing me back to my first love – journalism.

Our experiences shape our reality, and sometimes we have to figure out what not to do to figure out what we should do.

This month in Elmore County Living, we feature Mover and Shaker Ann Harper who has a similar story of returning to a past life. After 15 years with the Alabama Wildlife Federation, she has returned to Millbrook as economic development director – a role she assisted with many years earlier. Read about her story and what a typical day is like on page 16.

Michaela Sanders grew up working on her grandfather’s farm, left for college and headed for a career in marketing dairy. She ultimately realized through this choice that she wanted to return to the lifestyle of farming. On page 8, you will read what life is like for the owner of Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm.

Thurman Parker always knew he loved cars – driving them, restoring them, selling them. While he tried his hands at a few other jobs throughout his life, he ultimately spent his time manipulating his true passion. Check out Parker’s handy work on page 18 and read about a man who did what he loved and feels he hasn’t missed a thing in life.

There’s nothing wrong with switching up life’s path – in fact, it’s often good for us.

Don’t be afraid to follow that gut instinct of yours. You never know where it may lead.

kenneth.boone@alexcityoutlook.com

President & Publisher Steve Baker

steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com

Managing Editor Betsy Iler

betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com

Editor

Amy Passaretti

amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com

Distribution Manager David Kendrick

david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing Consultant Marilyn Hawkins

marilyn.hawkins@thewetumpkaherald.com

Marketing Consultant Kat Raiford

kat.raiford@alexcityoutlook.com

Creative Services Audra Spears

audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com

Contributors

Kenneth Boone Jeff Langham Carmen Rodgers Jacob Saylor David Granger Larry Johnson

MK Moore Kathy Monroe Lori Mercer Shannon McDuffie Barry Chrietzberg Suellen Young

To subscribe to Elmore County Living, $25 a year for 12 issues, please call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281 For Advertising Inquiries 334-567-7811 For Editorial Inquiries 256-234-4281

Amy Passaretti, Editor

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS We're now accepting photo submissions to our cover contest for the annual FYI newcomer's guide for Elmore County.

Turn to page 39 for complete details on how to enter.

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Chairman

Kenneth Boone

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All content, including all stories and photos, are copyright of

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., P.O. Box 99 300 Green Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 334-567-7811

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CONTENTS ON THE COVER Allie is one of 19 cows that call Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm home. They produce fresh, quality milk that owner Michaela Sanders distributes in local stores and sells on site.

Photo by Suellen Young

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8 Columns

Features 12

Light up the Night

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Back in the Day

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Mover & Shaker

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Community Care

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A Lifelong Hobby

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Movie Man

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The Gamer

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Southern Delights

July 4th Festivities

Millbrook's Ann Harper T Parker Restores Antique Cars

Legends of Local Towns Summer Safety

Summer Blockbusters DLC Misses the Mark Grilled to Perfection

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In Every Issue 6

Extra! Extra!

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Business Spotlight

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Out & About

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Coming Up

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Where to Find Us

News Briefs

Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm In Elmore County Fun for Everyone Distribution List

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Local kid wins tractor pull A 10-year-old Slapout resident bested three adult competitors in the 2,500-pound division of the Southern Antique Iron Tractor

pull last month.

Dylan Patrick competed in his first tractor pull as scores of farm equipment enthusiasts filled the

Wetumpka Sports Complex.

The Southern Antique Iron Association has about 50 members and is open to anyone but is largely made up of individuals who enjoy the restoration and preservation of antique farm equipment.

The show was moved from its original location in Elmore to Wetumpka and also included a tractor pull, pedal tractor race, pedal tractor pull, skillet throw, hammer throw and parade of power.

This show raises funds for the Children's Hospital in Birmingham.

Holtville Pitcher Sets Sights High

Holtville native Paisley Wilson is a junior at Prattville Christian Academy and a rising softball star.

The pitcher was selected for the MLB USA Softball Breakthrough Series in California. She was one of 60 softball players selected from throughout

the country and the only one from Alabama.

The camp was taught by well known softball instructors and provided an opportunity to be scouted by colleges and coaches to enhance her career.

A visual of Wetumpka history nearly complete Main Street Wetumpka has completed all 27 points of history on its alley wall mural in downtown Wetumpka. The artists include Wetumpka High School art teacher Adriane Duvall and some of her talented students.

The next phase will implement the use of local artists to finalize the project. To the right is a rendering of what the projected project will eventually entail.

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Crappie win on lake jordan

Extra!

Extra!

News from Elmore County and surrounding areas

Jimmy Ayers and Michael Clinard won the Crappie Masters National Qualifier Tournament on Lake Jordan and the Alabama River last month.

The final day, the pair caught a seven-fish bag that weighed 12.99 pounds, giving the team its first-ever tournament win and $3,700.

Renewed Walkway Thanks to the increased gas tax, residents of East Tallassee can enjoy the completion of a new sidewalk.

Last year, the council voted to increase the gas tax by two cents, and funds have been used for street and road repairs. To date, a striping machine has striped the downtown area, the senior center parking lot and more.

The new sidewalk runs from the caution light all the way to the Church of Christ.

Rusty Mason returns to his roots for new coaching career Edgewood Academy came calling, and head coach Rusty Mason answered. The longtime Alabama Independent School Association coach now lives in Corpus Christi, Texas, and has been hoping to return home.

A graduate of Faith Academy, Mason began his coaching as the running backs

and wide receivers coach at Foley before returning to his alma mater to become offensive coordinator. His first head-coaching gig was at Cottage Hill. Now he faces the struggles of Edgewood Academy football teams' rebuilding stage.

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Business Spotlight

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Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm

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Story by Amy Passaretti & Photos by Suellen Young

The dairy farm cows each eat up to 70 pounds of food per day

ichaela Sanders is no stranger to the seven-day-a-week regimen it takes to own and operate Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm in Tallassee.

As a fourth generation farmer, she grew up with a love for the land and the business that has been her family’s lifeblood for years.

“I don’t even see it as working. I always had a passion for the dairy industry and knew what it entailed. Farming is a lifestyle,” said Sanders, who graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences.

Sanders kicks off her days at 4:30 a.m. by milking her 19 cows to provide the freshest milk possible to her customers. The process takes about an hour and a half, and she repeats the routine at 4:30 p.m.

Produced, pasteurized and bottled on site, the milk travels from cow to container within 24 hours, which leads to superior quality and a delayed expiration date due to its freshness at the time of filling the jugs.

Since the product is bottled fresh, it lasts up to three weeks, which is longer than average store-bought milk, Sanders said. Also, the whole milk is not homogenized, meaning it is a cream line product and easier to digest.

Her grandfather, C.D. Lott, operated the farm until 2005 where it sat full of potential until Sanders returned to her roots. While the family business continued to produce custom cut hay during this time, Sanders wanted to do more to grow the business.

“After college, I worked with a milk promotion company and found out how detached the public is from farming. I wanted people to know where their milk comes from and be able to provide that resource,” said Sanders.

After the planning process began in August 2016,

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The milk is pastuerized within 24 hours of being produced

The on-site store also features products from other local farmers

Amy the cow poses for a picture in the landmark barn

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Gallons of milk are sold at Sanders' farm for $5

Sanders got the ball rolling quickly and opened the doors to Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm on Black Friday November 2017.

The barn housing the cattle was built in 1946 by her great-grandfather and is an impressive landmark rich in history. While her grandmother still lives on the farm, Sanders’ commute is less than five minutes down the road.

On average, one Michaela Sanders milks cow produces 8 galher cows twice a day, lons of milk per day, seven days a week so her operation yields a minimum of 150 gallons at a time. Sanders said there is more milk production in the winter months, but care and comfort of her animals is her top priority, which ensures they make enough milk year round.

“Each cow eats about 30 pounds of grain per day and about 70 pounds of food total,” Sanders explained.

She also allows the public to bottle feed new calves and tour the farm.

Through artificial insemination, replacement calves are born from the current heifers and begin producing milk around age 2.

Sanders sells any bull calves that are born, since only the females produce milk.

Pasteurization takes about six hours where the milk must be heated to 145 degrees for 30 minutes and then cooled to 45 degrees before it can be bottled. Sanders has all the necessary equipment on site for a fully operational dairy farm.

She even purchases her empty jugs and trademark labels from local Alabama companies.

The store on site carries gallons of milk for $5, but half-gallons and pints also are available. Other products from local farmers – such as eggs, jams, jellies and honey – could also be found in her modest building. Seasonally, she sells produce grown from her acre-wide garden, as well.

The store is open Monday through Friday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

While she does have some help in the store and a few other hands around the farm, Sanders completes the bulk of the work on her own.

“No two days are ever alike.

After milking in the morning, I’m either pasteurizing, bottling or delivering jugs to grocery stores who now carry my product,” said Sanders.

With about nine stores on her distribution list, Sanders said she typically drops off about 100 gallons at a time to each one weekly and often makes a second trip during the week. This keeps the commodity moving quickly.

“I have no excess – there never has been,” she added.

Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm milk can be purchased at Tallassee Super Foods; the Piggly Wigglys in Eclectic, Slapout and Pine Level; Millbrook Food Outlet; Kim’s Korner Mart in Titus; Oakview Farms in Wetumpka; Shana’s Place in Shorter; Hornsby Farms in Auburn; and George’s Farmers Market in LaFayette.

“The community has been really supportive of this, and I have been so very blessed to have that,” Sanders said.

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Light up the Night Story by Amy Passaretti & Photo by Lori Mercer

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he night sky will light up with luminous red, white and blue this July 4th holiday with fireworks and activities for the whole family to enjoy throughout Elmore County.

For the 27th year, the Lake Jordan Home Owners and Boat Owners Association will host its fireworks show on the east side of Lake Jordan Dam at dark July 4. HOBO was established to enhance recreational opportunities on the lake, so the organization decided to offer this entertainment annually.

The spectacular 20-minute show is best seen by boat, and the lake is typically covered with thousands of boats and observers enjoying the festivities.

“It is such a cool thing to see all the boats lined up to watch and hearing the ‘oohs and ahhs’ of the spectators,” said Nikki Miller, Lake Jordan HOBO fireworks chair.

In the past, HOBO also has hosted a decorative boat parade, and Miller said that event is set to return either this year or next.

“Lake Jordan is celebrating 90 years since its creation, and we would love for the community to come out to celebrate,” said Miller.

For information, visit Lake Jordan HOBO Facebook page.

The City of Wetumpka will host a July 4th celebration in Gold Star Park.

Fireworks, sponsored by Wind Creek Wetumpka, will illuminate the sky over the Coosa River at 8:30 p.m., and Wetumpka City Clerk Tiffany Robinson said everyone is encouraged to bring a picnic to the park to watch the show.

For those spending time on Lake Martin, Russell Marine’s 40th Annual July 4th Boat Parade will begin at 10 a.m. The scores of vessels decked out in patriotic themes and festive displays will parade from Kowaliga to Children’s Harbor. Spectators could line the shorelines or stake out a spot on the water to view the show.

Two prizes will be awarded for each category of participants: Tallest Flag, Largest Flag, Most Creative Theme and Most Patriotic Crew. First prize is a $150 Russell Marine gift certificate, and second prize is a $75 gift certificate.

New this year, Best Overall Boat and Crew will be awarded $500 cash. To join the fun, gather a crew, decorate a boat and call Kowaliga Marina to register at 334-857-2111.

The Lake Martin Amphitheater will host its annual fireworks display on the lake at 9 p.m. July 4. The Grains of Sand band take The AMP stage at 8 p.m. and will return to the stage after the fireworks. Gates open at 5 p.m., so bring the kids, coolers and chairs to stake out a good spot on the lawn. The fireworks also can be seen by boat.

With many options for a good time by land or water this July 4th, Elmore County residents should don their best patriotic attire and join the celebrations appropriate for the whole family.

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Mover & Shaker

Millbrook's Ann Harper Story by Amy Passaretti & Photos by Barry Chrietzberg

Ann Harper is Millbrook's new economic development director

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f the City of Millbrook was equated to the structure of a football team, Ann Harper said she would be deemed the quarterback in her new position of economic development director.

Her role is to facilitate the growth, improvement, expansion and diversity of the city’s economic base, along with Mayor Al Kelley, the city council, community leaders and residents.

“Millbrook is poised for great things, and our city has a lot going for it. I am still very new to the role, but I am loving every minute of it,” said Harper.

Originally from Falls Church, Virginia, Harper has called Elmore County home for most of her life. She wants to inspire that same feeling for others in her reprised role for the City of Millbrook.

Mayor Kelley established a friendship with Harper when she worked securing grants and providing planning assistance for the tri-county area with Central Harper and Mayor Al Alabama Regional Kelley collaborate Planning and Develon plans for the City opment Commission.

He then recruited her to assist with the establishment of Millbrook’s economic development program in 1999 realizing the impact she made and relationships formed with her previous job.

“Ann got us started on the track of economic development. We didn’t know what we were doing, but we weathered it together, and I knew she would be a great fit,” said Kelley. “She is extremely intelligent and personable and just got out there and began introducing herself, going to conferences and meeting retailers.”

When she left CARPDC, Harper’s original plan was to stay home with her pre-school aged daughter, but she didn’t want to pass up the opportunity to work with the city. Working part-time in a field in which she is passionate while enjoying time for family was the best of both worlds, she said.

After about four years, Harper was ready for a full-time position and decided to try her hand at a nonprofit since the Alabama Wildlife Federation had relocated to Millbrook. She spent 15 years there until the restlessness set in.

“I heard Millbrook’s economic developer Carol Thompson had retired, and she did such a fabulous job promoting the city. I approached the mayor about joining the team and have been at the job for about three months now,” said

Harper, who graduated from Auburn University with bachelor's and master’s degrees in public administration.

Since the city continues to grow residentially and has available land near I-65, it appeals to retail business. More retailers and commercial interests would help alleviate economic leakage to surrounding cities. Anything that adds to the sales tax base and is a suitable fit for Millbrook enables the city to provide quality of life amenities to its citizens.

“My goal is to make Millbrook look good to business interests that are considering locating here. I also need to ensure existing businesses are happy and thrive,” said Harper.

“It takes a team. The mayor, community leaders and city council have all done a wonderful job creating a city that is business friendly and welcoming. We have a lot of assets – location, a large trade area, residential growth and especially the people that live here who make the town what it is.”

The job does not come without its challenges and obstacles, which Harper is prepared to tackle.

The City of Millbrook is still young and needs time to prove itself as a suitable market for incoming business, she said.

“Economic development is a process, not an event. We have to work at it aggressively but at the same time be patient,” said Harper.

Also, recruiting can be a very competitive business and potential companies have a certain footprint in mind when selecting a location.

“I think we’re working on that part well. I love meeting new people and creating relationships. I’m learning about brokers, owners of properties and potential retailers. New business is looking for good traffic counts and prime commercial sites,” Harper said.

Highway 14 creates an ideal commercial corridor, Main Street is developing and the new hotel at Cobbs Ford Road is scheduled to be complete by the fall, which could spark more interest, she added. As more businesses move in, so do opportunities for more jobs, which Harper said is gratifying to help facilitate.

“I am really excited and optimistic about the future of Millbrook and want to make a difference here,” Harper said.

“I can just see Millbrook burst open in the next three to four years.”

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A Lifelong Hobby

Tallassee man brings old cars back to life STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & PHOTOS BY SHANNON MCDUFFIE

The instrument cluster of a restomod 1963 Falcon convertible

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Thurman Parker restores cars in his home garage in Tallassee

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allassee native Thurman Parker has always loved cars – whether he was building, driving, selling or admiring them – automobiles have been Parker’s passion.

After high school, Parker worked for The Tallassee Mill for a few years and always had an aptitude for fixing things.

While, he made a decent living working there, Parker always had a dream of owning his own automobile business.

He worked at a Ford Dealer for about four years, until that dream came true in 1971, and Parker had the opportunity to open his own business, T Parker Auto Sales, where he spent the next 40 years selling used cars.

“With being a new business it was hard to get things

going. So, during the course of selling cars, I found different ways to make them sell better,” said Parker.

He discovered that transforming some car models through aesthetics or different parts added novelty. He sometimes added a two-tone paint scheme or simply changed the tires and wheels for a fresh look.

“Over the years in business, we would have the opportunity to find a nice, clean old car to take and refurbish. I always enjoyed doing something different that had not been done before,” Parker added.

This hobby and skill is what inspired Parker to begin restoring and rebuilding everything he could get his hands on from golf carts, tractors, cars and pickup trucks.

After he retired from his auto sales business in 2013,

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A 1965 Mustang fastback GT that Parker restored

302 V8 engine in a '62 Coupe

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A 1962 Falcon Coupe

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there was even more time available for this hobby.

Parker has a shop at home where he has lived his entire life.

“One of the great things about having a hobby like this is working on projects with family and friends.

I have a lot of great memories that have been made during both work or play,” said Parker.

His favorite restored he has done was a 1963 Falcon convertible. This car was built for his wife Mary of 56 years. With its sleek design and updated outfitting, this vehicle has won many awards at car shows across the Southeast and always seems to turn heads, said Parker.

Some vehicles that Parker works on are considered restored, while others would be deemed restomod, or essentially putting modern cars into old bodies to retain the vintage appeal but modernize the system.

“I did something exactly what I dreamed of doing, and it’s been a lot of fun. I’m proud to say I have not missed out on a whole lot in my life,” Parker said.

Every time he finished work on a car, Parker asserts it will be his last.

Until he sees his next project ...

The Falcon convertible is Parker's favorite ride

The 1963 Falcon convertible was built for Parker's wife Mary

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Legends of Local Towns Larry Johnson

BACK IN THE DAY Larry Johnson now lives in

Robinson Springs, just a few miles south of where he grew up

Elmore, Alabama. in

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Alabama has an abundance of uniquely named small towns, communities and local landmarks, such as Needmore, Cuba and Nanafalia – to name a few. West Elmore County has its share as well, and there is typically a story behind each.

One of my favorites is the legend of Slap Out, Alabama. The tale is that a proprietor of a store located in the heart of Holtville would often reply to a customer that requested a particular product, “I am slap out of that.” The store then became known as Slap Out’s.

Over time, the surrounding area of the store took on the name of Slap Out, Alabama. Slap Out even received national attention recently when a local singer was a finalist on a number one-rated TV talent show.

There are other landmark areas in west Elmore County that have unique tags as well.

Time seems to have caused many to forget how their names came about. Examples include the communities of Sweetening and Lucky Town near Elmore and Ceasarville (not Caesarville) between Elmore and Slap Out. If anyone knows, please let it be known.

Others have rather obvious names. Sandtown in the City of Millbrook got its name from the sand pits that were dug there. Robinson Springs, also in Millbrook, was named for the large springs once owned by the Robinson family that came to the area before Alabama was a state.

The Town of Coosada is the birthplace of Alabama heritage. It was settled in the 16th century and named by Native Americans; however, it has gone through a series of spellings beginning with Koasati to Coosawda to Coosada. The final version occurred when a sign painter accidently left off the “w” when replacing the town’s sign; or so goes the story.

Another legend of a current landmark is Cobbs Ford Road. The road extends from U.S. Highway 143 in Millbrook to Interstate High-

way 65 into the City of Prattville. It ends at the junction with the McQueen Smith Road in Prattville where it mysteriously changes to East Main Street.

I do not know why it lost its possessive apostrophe, but I can remember in my lifetime when the entire area was known as Cobb’s Ford. That was long before Interstate Highway 65 was constructed and changed the area from a residential and farming community into a bustling business district that separates the current cities of Millbrook and Prattville.

The area once known as Cobb’s Ford also has an interesting story behind it. In the early 1800s, Calvin Cobb (1816-1898), born in Casswell County, North Carolina, migrated to Autauga County, Alabama, circa 1828. This was before Elmore County was carved from Coosa, Autauga, Tallapoosa and Montgomery counties in 1866.

Cobb established a homestead and farmed property adjacent to a community known as Edgewood, at the root of what is known today as the Rocky Mount Ridge in Elmore County.

The area was a popular site for homesteading pioneers, due to its beautiful rolling hills and fertile land for farming.

Cobb married Elizabeth Caroline Burt (18321907), and they had four daughters and six sons. Over time, Edgewood became known as Millbrook because of the mill on the rambling creek that ran through the town.

Henry Clay Cobb Sr. (1861-1943) was the third son of Calvin and Caroline. He married Sally Stamp (1872-1955) in 1891, and together they raised five boys and five girls. Henry Cobb, in addition to farming, worked at the nearby Daniel Pratt’s Gin Company in Prattville. He was a smart businessman, purchased the 80 acres of farmland that he rented and added to it.

His land holdings grew to plantation size after acquiring nearly 1,500 acres.

Henry Clay Cobb developed that land, which became known as Cobb’s Ford. The name came

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This photo of Cobbs Ford silo was taken from the hill that was once part of the Cobb plantation

from his father, Calvin, who cut a ford across a creek to obtain access to the land he farmed. Henry and Sally made their home and plantation center on a hill at Cobb’s Ford overlooking the land. The site included a large silo, a windmill and all of the buildings required for a large farming operation.

The location today, nestled behind a modern hotel and local businesses, provides a beautiful view of the Alabama River that extends from Cobbs Ford Road to the City of Montgomery. The home no longer exists, but the silo still stands as a towering landmark and a tribute to the Cobb family’s history.

Down the hill, near the original creek ford, Henry Cobb established a recreational area with a swimming pool, pavilion, barbecue pit, picnic tables and a path to a lake that can be seen today from the east side of Interstate Highway 65 just south of Cobbs Ford Road. The recreational area unfortunately is no longer there.

In my youth, I swam in that pool, which was filled from

an artesian well. I remember the water was so cold that it would cause chill bumps and teeth chatter even during the hottest month of August.

The Cobb family’s footprint in west Elmore and east Autauga counties is quite large. A large number of Cobbs were raised at Cobb’s Ford, too many to mention in a single article. The area extended to almost the full length of the current-day Cobbs Ford Road. Some have moved away, but many still live at Cobb’s Ford, although, they are in the cities of Millbrook and Prattville.

Some years ago, I was asked if I knew any Cobbs who lived in Millbrook. My response was, “I thought nearly everyone who lived in the Millbrook area was a Cobb or had a Cobb connection.” At the time, I just might have been correct.

The information about the Cobb family was taken from the publication, The Heritage of Elmore County.

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Summer Safety Follow these tips for a successful season of fun in the sun

Kathy Monroe

COMMUNITY CARE Kathy Monroe is the assistant to the adminstrator and the

CFO

Community Hospital. at

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Summer has finally arrived!

School is out, and the planning has begun for outings in the sunshine. These months could be a wonderful time for the entire family; however, sunny days and warm weather also bring risks of sunburn, allergies, bug bites, water safety concerns and other potential health hazards.

Before heading outside to enjoy the seasonal fun, here are a few safety tips to consider.

Protection from the effects of the sun is the number one priority.

Sunlight is good for the body. It is an excellent source of Vitamin D, which we all need; however, too much exposure to sunrays could be harmful.

Sunburn is painful and could cause long-term damage, as well as skin cancer. The sun’s ultraviolet rays could damage skin in as little as 15 minutes.

Protect exposed skin with sunscreen, or wear protective clothing when spending time in the summer sun. Use a broad-spectrum sun-

screen with at least SPF 15 – even on overcast or cool days – before heading outside. Don’t forget to protect the ears and the back of the neck.

Reapply sunscreen often – especially after swimming, sweating or toweling off. Seek shade under an umbrella or other shelter to protect skin from harmful rays. Also, wear a hat and sunglasses for extra protection.

Many summer activities are often planned around the water.

These could include time at the lake, the beach or lazy days beside the pool. The refreshing water could provide cooling relief from hot weather; however, water activities also could be dangerous, especially for children. Nearly 1,000 kids die each year from drowning, and most of those happen in home swimming pools.

Children need constant supervision around water – whether in a bathtub, a wading pool, a swimming pool, the lake or the

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beach. Young children can drown in less than 2 inches of water.

Swimming lessons are always recommended for children. No matter the swimming skills, always watch children closely when they are in or near any type of water. Never allow a child to swim without a responsible adult present. Invest in properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices and ensure children wear them.

Even adult swimmers should always swim with a buddy. All swimmers, adults and children, should stay away from pool and spa drains to avoid being trapped by the suction.

Outdoors activities in the hot weather – work or play – could easily lead to dehydration. It is crucial to drink plenty of water and to replenish all the fluids that are lost through perspiration. Drinks that contain alcohol or caffeine are not effective against dehydration. These could actually increase fluid output, making it harder to stay properly hydrated.

Dehydration could lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke – very serious and even life-threatening conditions. During summertime recreation, make sure to stop frequently and rest in a cool place to drink plenty of fluids. Wear lightweight clothing, avoid direct sunlight, take advantage of air conditioning when pos-

sible, drink plenty of water and avoid overexertion to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

It’s a given – bugs are going to bug you this summer. Not only are they a nuisance but also some are dangerous. A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that illnesses caused from mosquitos, ticks and fleabites more than tripled in the United States from 2004 to 2016. Stings from yellow jackets, wasps, hornets and bees are painful and could be life-threatening, especially for those with allergies.

Insect stings send many to the emergency room each year. It is always a good idea to use insect repellent when spending time outdoors.

What is summer without a backyard barbecue? Follow these few safety pointers to enjoy a hazard-free outing with family and friends: Keep grills far away from anything that might catch fire. Take care when lighting either a charcoal grill or a gas grill. Keep a spray bottle of water handy to quickly extinguish any minor flareups. Keeping a fire extinguisher close by is a good idea, too. Always keep children away from the grill.

Be cognizant of summer safety, and don’t allow a careless accident to ruin a good time. Community Hospital wishes everybody a safe and enjoyable summer.

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Summer Blockbusters It’s time again for the summer movie season – that period from June to August when Hollywood rolls out its biggest and best crowd-pleasers. Grab the popcorn and get ready for films that are currently in release or ones to enjoy in the weeks ahead at the local multiplex.

Jeff Langham

MOVIE MAN Dr. Jeff Langham is State Assistant Superintendent for External and

Governmental Affairs and a lifelong lover of film.

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June 1 Adrift – Starring Shailene Woodley (Big Little Lies) and Sam Claflin (Me Before You), this film is based on the true story of two avid sailors who set out on a journey across the ocean in 1983. They sail directly into one of the most catastrophic hurricanes in recorded history, thus beginning an extraordinary story of survival.

tary – Toni Collette and Gabriel Byrne star in this supernatural horror thriller that was a breakout hit at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival and has garnered lots of positive buzz. Its scare quotient has been compared to The Exorcist. Yikes!

June 15 Incredibles 2 – This long-awaited sequel to the 2004 film The Incredibles has reassembled its original writer/director Brad Bird and vocal talents Holly Hunter, Craig T. Nelson, Sarah Vowell and Samuel L. Jackson, all in their original roles.

June 8 Ocean’s Eight – This sequel and female spin-off to the Ocean’s Trilogy features a superstar cast of Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Helena Bonham Carter, Anne Hathaway, Rihanna and Mindy Kaling.

Matt Damon and Carl Reiner pop in to join the fun.

Heredi-

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August 3

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom – As the sequel to 2015’s Jurassic World and the fifth installment in the Jurassic Park film series, this film features Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard and B. D. Wong reprising their Jurassic World roles.

They also will be joined by Jeff Goldblum who will reprise his role as Dr. Ian Malcolm from the original film and its 1997 sequel.

Christopher Robin – Ewan McGregor stars as Christopher Robin, the little boy from the Winnie-the-Pooh stories, who is now all grown up and has lost all sense of imagination.

Pooh and his friends re-enter Christopher’s life to help him reclaim his imagination.

The Spy Who Dumped Me – The comic powerhouse from Saturday Night Live, Mila Kunis and Kate McKinnon, costar in this comedy. Anticipation is high for this spoof that has already generated phenomenal positive word of mouth among those who have seen it.

June 29 Sicario: Day of the Soldado – As the sequel to the 2015 film Sicario, this film stars Benicio del Toro and Josh Brolin and is the continuing story of the drug war at the U.S.-Mexico border.

July 6 Ant-Man and the Wasp – Paul Rudd stars in this sequel to 2015’s Ant-Man, and he is joined by Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas and Michelle Pfeiffer in his new adventures.

August 10 The Meg – This movie involves a deep-sea submarine attacked by a Megalodon shark that was thought to be extinct. With the ship disabled at the bottom of the sea, a rescue diver and oceanographer must quickly work to rescue the crew. Action hero Jason Statham stars in this suspenseful treat.

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July 13 Skyscraper – Starring Dwayne Johnson and Neve Campbell, this film features Johnson as former FBI agent and amputee Will Sawyer who lives in the tallest and safest skyscraper in Hong Kong with his family. Sure enough, the building comes under attack by terrorists, forcing Sawyer to act. This film is not to be confused with 1996’s Skyscraper, which was a direct-to-video Die Hard rip-off starring the ill-fated starlet Anna Nicole Smith.

July 20 The Equalizer 2 – Director Antoine Fuqua once again guides Denzel Washington in this sequel to 2014’s The Equalizer, based on the rather tame TV series of the same name.

Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again! – Here comes the sequel to 2008’s Mamma Mia! with its original cast intact, including Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth. The film will be released to coincide with the 10th anniversary of the original’s release, which is another testament to the power of the music created by popular Swedish group ABBA.

July 27 Mission: Impossible – Fallout – Buckle your seat belts for this high-octane sixth installment in the Mission: Impossible film series. Returning stars Tom Cruise, Rebecca Ferguson, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Michelle Monaghan and Alec Baldwin are joined by Superman Henry Cavill in the mayhem of this newest outing.

Crazy Rich Asians – This eagerly anticipated film is based on Kevin Kwan’s bestselling novel of the same name. The plot centers on a trip to Singapore for a destination wedding that turns into a wild and unforgettable experience.

August 24 Slender Man – Terror strikes when five teenage girls in a small town perform a ritual to summon the Slender Man – a thin and tall looking horrifying figure with unnaturally long arms, no facial features and murderous tendencies.

Papillon – A criminal is unjustly convicted of murder in 1930s France and condemned to life in a South American prison. In this remake, Charlie Hunnam and Rami Malek assume the roles handled so effectively by Steve McQueen and Dustin Hoffman in the 1973 original.

August 31 The Little Stranger – This supernatural horror film is set in England during the long, hot summer of 1947. Domhnall Gleeson (Star Wars: The Force Awakens) stars alongside Charlotte Rampling (Red Sparrow) in this bone-chilling suspenser.

With these movies and many more that will be released during the summer months, it’s time to get busy on summer movie viewing. Keep in mind that release dates are subject to change.

As I say every summer, there is no danger of the summertime blues with something for everyone headed to the multiplexes in the hazy, lazy, crazy days ahead.

So many movies, so little time!

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Downloadable Content Misses the Mark

Jacob Saylor

THE GAMER Video games journalist

Jacob Saylor has covered the massive

Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles.

Follow Jacob on Twitter @skulldrey.

Video games are fun. And when we find a game that we really like, the natural progression is to play it as much as possible. Eventually, that game ends, and we move on to the next title – however bittersweet that might be.

Sure, video games have hugely varied levels of replay value, but it’s fair to say that most games have a definitive end – a credits screen, a final mission or a simple fade-to-black.

And that’s how it should be.

But we’ve gotten spoiled, and downloadable content (DLC) has gotten increasingly out-ofhand in recent years. This content adds to the existing stories of video games or provides branching, often loosely correlative adventures for players. These content packages are usually shorter than normal full-sized games and offer little in the way of truly new material.

There are, of course, exceptions. And there are, of course, numerous websites and communities dedicated to DLC. There is a lot of value in some of these packages, but value and quality make up only a portion of the conversation.

On an industry scale, DLC has become the norm. Most titles offer some sort of additional, post-release content. In response to this, many have asked, “Why wasn’t it included in the base game?” It’s a valid question that is usually met with, “It takes time to develop the new material.”

While that’s well and good, new games already run gamers a cool $60. And by the time a gamer has purchased all the DLC for a game, he is generally looking at a price tag closer to $100 (obviously, this varies).

But the very nature of DLC means that you’re engaging with content that is tangential to the game’s main plot or content offer-

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ing. There’s no reason for it to exist past putting a little extra squeeze on gamers’ wallets. If there was content relative enough to the game’s main story to warrant inclusion, it should have been a part of the $60 price tag. If it wasn’t, then just wait until the franchise’s next iteration. If players enjoyed the game, they’ll be waiting for part two.

It’s even worse to consider the reality that many popular games now get re-mastered editions a couple of years after their releases. This brings updated graphics to the title, sure – but the other selling point? All that wonderful DLC wrapped up in one easy $60 package.

For nostalgia’s sake, there are many who played the originals that also buy the full-priced remaster. So, in essence, developers and publishers have devised a formula to get an extra $100 out of players’ pockets when combining the DLC and remaster. The numbers aren’t readily apparent online, and the last thing I’d want to do is lie, but consider this anecdotal: Detroit: Become Human (5/25/18) sold 39,548 copies during its first week on the market in Japan.

Dark Souls: Remastered (5/24/18) sold 71,739 copies during its first week on the market in Japan.

Neither title did impeccably, but this is recent proof that remasters are alive and well in the video games industry. As a disclaimer, I’m not surprised the Japanese market leaned toward Dark Souls – different strokes and all that.

But here’s the thing: Dark Souls is almost 8 years old. That doesn’t really make it a classic, though I’m sure it will be hailed as one in the future. It’s also young enough that I’m genuinely surprised it was a candidate for a remaster. The same generation that played the original Dark Souls is playing the remaster, and while it’s none of my business what people do with their time, it seems like an egregious waste of time for both developers and gamers alike.

Then again, if it makes someone money, then I guess that point is moot; however, I advise gamers to look elsewhere.

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While Dark Souls: Remastered is the unfortunate target of my ire, it’s only a blemish on the pockmarked face of video games’ DLC issue. The problem has become systemic, with many games offering pay-to-win schemes and microtransactions. This is especially true in multiplayer titles, where exclusive or rare items are given only to players who drop cold, hard cash on the game. Fortunately, this is a trend that’s remained mostly relegated to mobile titles, and I certainly hope it stays there.

The few places in which it has cropped up in the gaming industry proper are a bit worrisome. Flagship titles like Overwatch and League of Legends are riddled with microtransactions. And while the constant DLC that’s pushed to these games feels less nefarious – it’s optional, after all – it can still change the experience for players in a drastic way.

Then again, these games don’t have that distinct ending that we talked about earlier. They’re open-ended, so really, players are either buying in or playing a lot to keep up with their pals.

These two games in particular aren’t the most apt example of the DLC problem in video games right now, but here’s why we’re talking about them: They represent industry leaders Blizzard Entertainment (Overwatch) and Riot Games (League of Legends). While each of these games and developers are the shining beacons of excellence, their examples are what others will follow.

“If Blizzard did it, then why shouldn’t we?” the smaller

developers might ask.

As the industry continues to mature, I think more people will see that DLC should be the exception rather than the rule. We all want to get the most out of our games and spend more time with the characters inside, but sometimes it’s time to let them go.

The best way to urge developers and publishers to do the same is to keep your wallet stowed away until they offer something that really piques your interest and offers material of consequence. There are plenty of great games to enjoy that aren’t haphazardly thrown together after a game’s main release, and it’s on you to find out what those titles are. Good luck!

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OUT & ABOUT

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VFW Crawfish Boil

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April 21, 2018 VFW Post 5035, Tallassee 1. Mark Self and Jason and James Hunter

2. Angie Freeman and Beca Fuller

3. Jimmy Browning and Brandon Watkins

4. Russell Craig

5. Jason Sullivan and Jame Thompson

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6. Amber and Jame Needham

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OUT & ABOUT

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Elmore County High School

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Senior Night May 10, 2018 ECHS, Eclectic 1. Marshall, Catie, Renee and Elizabeth Sanders 2. Joey and Tracy Holley

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3. Hannah Guy and Maleah Gladson 4. Christy and Ken Monk 5. Julie Osborne and Blake Nichols 6. Tony McGhee and Warren and Karen Colley

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OUT & ABOUT

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Preparedness Fair

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April 28, 2018 J.E. Hot O'Brien Stadium 1. Scott Wolf and John Fertsch 2. John Wilson and Chad Moore 3. John Hudson and Joe Talley

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4. Larry Wilson, Willie Short and Charles Chambers 5. Andrew Wood and Josh Dorminy 6. JC Dariers Jr. and Chris Welch 7. Lamar Jones and Gregg Cary 8. Cutter Welch

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OUT & ABOUT

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Team Up to Clean Up

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April 28, 2018 Tallassee City Hall 1. Patrick Ernst, Nathan Mason and Games Nolin 2. Mildred Peek and Carol Aldridge 3. Macon Stockdale and Rodger Mathis 4. Carli Aldridge and Kimberly Baird

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5. Donna Cunningham and Payton and Paisley Moore 6. Laurie Rygiel, Noah Griggs, Jennie Grant and Jerry Cunningham 7. Landon Taylor, Patrick Chandler, Lane Aldridge and Jalen Felton 8. Anna Griggs and Avery Nolin

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OUT & ABOUT

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Summer Reading Program June 6, 2018 Tallassee Community Library 1. Claire and Elise Scroggins 2. Trinity and Marsha Talton

6 3. Riley Pitchford 4. Anouk Calhoun 5. Jenee Jones and Danni and Gabe Marsh 6. Laura Pardue, Abby Mann and Margret Lumpkin

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OUT & ABOUT

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Jackson Hagan Agency Ribbon Cutting

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June 7, 2018 Wetumpka 1. Marcella Gooch and Joanna Hagan

2. Mary Holliday

6 3. Brittani Braden and T.J. Stahl

4. Kristin and Leslie Hagan

5. Jackson Hagan and Mandi Fortner

6. Sonya Drake and Morgan Goodin

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OUT & ABOUT

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Sandlot Showing at Riverfest June 8, 2018 Mt. Vernon Theatre, Tallassee 1. Walker, Ellis, Emmett and Cruise Johnson 2. Jaylee Noe and Kaylee Carlson 3. Bill and Becky Carrol 4. Bill and Sandra Patterson 5. Maddie and Maddox Tennyson 6. Jennifer, Mikey and Parker Thompson

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cover Contest Take a picture that represents elmore county We want to show off the talent of our readers and put your work on the cover of our annual FYI newcomer’s guide for Elmore County. We are asking for submissions of photographs that depict life in Elmore County and what that entails. The subject is open to interpretation and could range from landmarks, scenic views, people, activities and more.

Tallassee Health and Rehabilitation, LLC

There are times in some of our lives when we have to make a transition.

A very good place to do that is Tallassee Health and Rehabilitation, LLC. There is a well trained staff who are also kind and helpful. It doesn’t take long to feel like it’s a family. -Mary Bellury, a Resident

“Our Family Caring for Yours” “For long-term care or short-term rehab, Tallassee Health and Rehabilitation, LLC is a 5-star facility dedicated to providing the best care right here at home.”

Instructions: • Send digital pictures at 300 dpi and at least 9x12 • Include your contact information and the town you live in • Tell us a little about your photo • Enter as many times as you want with no entry fee • Email entries to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

CALL SUNNY TO DISCUSS YOUR NEEDS TODAY!

334-283-3975

2639 Gilmer Avenue • Tallassee, AL 36078

Now accepting submissions through July 1, 2018

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Coming Up CALENDAR OF EVENTS

June 20 Archery Day Camp The Elmore County Extension office will host a 4-H archery camp from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m for $5. Pre-registration is required and available at al.4honline.com

June 21-22 Jr. Beekeeping Camp The Elmore County Extensions Office will host this twoday 4-H camp at Wetumpka Elementary School from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day. Cost is $30 and registration is required and available at al.4honline.com.

June 21 Fishing 101: Bream Doug Darr from the state’s Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division will teach families techniques for using live bait, fishing lures and preparing a catch to eat.

Anglers should bring hats and sunglasses. All other gear will be provided unless a participant wants to use his own. Anglers should meet at 6 p.m. in the Main Hall, or come at 5:30 p.m. to enjoy a BYODinner. For more information, contact Tyler Harris at 334-285-4550. AWF is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook and admission is $5 per person, with a $20 maximum per family.

June 21 Patriotic Ceremony Tallassee’s annual Community Patriotic Celebration will be held at 7 p.m. at Mt. Vernon Theatre to pay respect and tribute to veterans and current men and women serving in the military. The evening will include music, videos and pictorial displays. This event is free of charge, but donations are appreciated. For more information, contact Bill Patterson at 334-799-7723.

June 21-24, 28-30 and July 1 Cinderella The Millbrook Community Players will perform The Prince Street Players production of this classic story based on the fairytale by Charles Perrault. Performances on June 21-23 and 28-30 will begin at 7:30 p.m., and a

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2 p.m. showing will take place June 24 and July 1. The show will be directed by A. John Collier, with adaptation and lyrics by Jim Eiler. The music is directed by Jim Eiler and Jeanne Bargy. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door. Admission for children 12 and under is $8. The Millbrook Theatre is located at 5720 Main St. For information, visit millbrooktheater.com or call 334-782-7317.

June 23 Bees are Buzzing Join the Alabama Nature Center at 11:30 a.m. for a program all about the world of bees and beekeeping. Topics will cover pollination, beekeeping and the proper equipment needed. Guests will get to taste some local honey, which also will be on sale in the gift shop. ANC is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. For more information, contact Matt Vines at 334-285-4550.

June 27 Poultry Day Camp The Elmore County Extension Office will host this oneday 4-H camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $10. Pre-registration is required and available at al.4honline.com.

June 29 The Harmonettes Trio with Guests Three Ms. Alabama Senior America queens and one Ms. Missouri Sr. America queen, along with The Harmonettes – Gayle Glenn Sellers, Peggy Glenn Shores – and Kelley Whisnand, will perform at 7 p.m. at the Equality Performing Arts Center. The Harmonettes will sing some well known harmony songs, including the McGuire Sisters’ pieces and some Southern gospel favorites. Dianna Murphee,

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an award-winning actress from Birmingham will delight with some show tunes; Edwina Chappell from Wesport will perform country tunes; and Rita Young Allen from Gadsden will entertain with everything from gospel to opera. Enjoy an evening of fun, food and fellowship in Equality off Highway 9. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. There is no admission fee, but donations are welcome. If preferred, bring an appetizer to share. For information, contact Wayne Glenn at 334-320-6326.

July 4 Fourth of July Boat Parade This marks Russell Marine’s 40th annual boat parade that seems to grow each year. Boats parade from Kowaliga to Children’s Harbor decked out in festive displays and patriotic themes. Two prizes will be awarded for each category: Tallest Flag, Largest Flag, Most Creative Theme and Most Patriotic Crew. First prize is a $150 Russell Marine gift certificate, and second prize is a $75 gift certificate. And new this year, Best Overall Boat and Crew will receive $500 in cash. Get your crew together to decorate your boat or enjoy the colorful parade from the shore. Call Kowaliga Marina at 334-857-2111 or stop by any Russell marina to register.

July 4 City of Wetumpka Fireworks At 8:30 p.m. the City of Wetumpka will launch fireworks over the Coosa River. Head to Gold Star Park with a picnic dinner to watch the show.

July 4 Lake Jordan Annual Fireworks Show Fireworks will be shot from the east side of Jordan Dam at dark, and the show is best viewed from the water.

The Lake Jordan HOBO sponsors this event each year, which is funded by individuals and businesses. For information, visit the Lake Jordan HOBO Facebook page.

July 6-7 Arti Gras Featuring dozens of artists throughout the South, this two-day juried art show is held on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads from 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Vendors will sell handmade paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture and more.

If interested in partcipating as a vendor, submit two or three photos of your artwork, along with an application, to Tyler Mitchell tmitchell@russelllands.com by June 21.

July 10 and 17 Yoga in the Park The Elmore County Extension Office 4-H will host yoga in Goldstar Park from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Register online at al.4honline.com.

July 12-15 33rd Annual Southeastern Wood Carving School Hosted by the Central Alabama Woodcarving Association, instructors will be on site to teach woodcarving at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Classes are available for all levels and interest. Ginny Gray will be on site demoing live woodcarving. This year will be an exposition, instead of a competition. Members of the organization or those that sign up for a class may bring their work to display.

For a list of classes, visit centralalwoodcarving.com.

July 4 Fireworks and Concert Celebrate this holiday at The AMP with muisc by The Grains of Sand Band at 8 p.m. The Southeast’s largest fireworks display will start at 9 p.m., and the band will return at 9:30 p.m. when the fireworks show is over.

Gates will open at 5 p.m. Bring chairs, coolers and friends to stake out a spot on the grass. The annual Twist and Hula Hoop contests will keep kids entertained. For more information, visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com.

July 18 DAC Lunch and Learn: Bayou Painters Join the Dixie Art Colony at 11:30 a.m. for a luncheon and presentation about the Mobile County spin-off of the Dixie Art Colony. Included in the presentation will be four oversized storyboards about the Bayou Painters and examples of their work.

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Master Gardeners Lunch and Learn

July 18 Poultry Day Camp The Elmore County Extension Office will host this oneday 4-H camp from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $10. Pre-registration is required and available at al.4honline.com.

July 19 Healthy Cooking Day Camp The Elmore County Extension Office will provide the 4-H camp from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the ECEO. The cost is $10, and registration is required at al.4honline.com.

July 19 Mammals of Alabama Come learn about native mammals of Alabama at 6 p.m. at the Alabama Wildlife Federation, located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Discover everything from skins and skulls to tracks and scat. Participants can take home a track cast they create. Contact Tyler Harris at 334-2854550 for more information.

July 19-Aug. 4 Hands on a Hard Body The Wetumpka Depot Players will perform this uplifting musical about fighting for a piece of the American Dream. Hands on a Hard Body tells the story of 10 workingclass Texans who would do anything to win a new pickup truck. Based on a real contest in Longview, Texas, the musical’s competitors must stand in the sun for days with their hands on a truck. The last one standing is the winner. For information, visit wetumpkadepot.com.

Season-Long Events Santuck Flea Market The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month at 7300 Central Plank Rd., Highway 9 in Wetumpka.

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Bring a sack lunch to the Elmore County Extension Office in Wetumpka from noon to 1 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month for a gardening presentation hosted by the Central Alabama Master Gardeners Association.

The event is free and open to the public. Drinks are provided. Visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/or call 334-567-6301 for information.

Tuesdays with Kelly On the third Tuesday of each month, The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery hosts free events with various speakers, topics and demonstrations. This is a brown bag lunch event beginning at noon. The Kelly is located upstairs at 408 S. Main St., Wetumpka. For more information or a list of upcoming programs, visit thekelly.org.

Music on the Deck at Kowaliga On the first and third Sundays of the month, from now through August, Kowaliga Restaurant will offer live acoustic music on the deck from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., weather permitting. Visit kowaligarestaurant.com for the full artist lineup.

Friday on the Green Every Friday on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads, come listen to live music from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Lawn games are available, and people are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, coolers, kids and pets.

Millbrook Farmers Market Every Tuesday through Aug. 15 local farmers will have fresh produce available for sale from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Village Green. There also will be bakery items, demonstrations from the Master Gardeners, giveaways and other special activities. Visit the Millbrook Farmers Market Facebook page or contact Chuck Burns at 334285-3558 or 334-301-2650 for information.

Roman Catholic Worship at Church in the Pines The parish at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church of Tallassee will hold confession at 5:30 p.m. and Holy Eucharist at 6 p.m. on Saturdays at Church in the Pines through Sept. 1. Confession also can be arranged by appointment. Call Fr. Matt Rudzik at 251-599-4597. For information, email StVincent620@gmail.com or visit stvincent-tallassee.org.

Haunted Wetumpka Investigations Beginning this month, in-depth paranormal investigations will take place in the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce building from 7 p.m. to midnight on the third

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Saturday of the month. Cost is $50 per person, and reservations are required. For information or registration, call 334-567-4811 or email jyoung@wetumpkachamber.org.

Country Music Jam Every Friday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Red Hill Community Center hosts an open-stage country music jam. All players, singers and listeners are welcome. Coffee and snacks are provided at this family-friendly event.

No admission is charged, but donations are welcome.

The community center is located at the Old Red Hill School on state Route 229 south of Kowaliga. Email Paula Castleberry at mcasby53@windstream.net for more information.

Alabama Wildlife Federation Naturalist Hikes Every Tuesday and Friday, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced ANC naturalist by your side. Learn how to bird or ID plants and animals; splash through the creek; or catch insects in the meadow. General admission applies and is $5 per person, with a $20 maximum per family. AWF is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook.

Equestrian Center; county jail; Shaylee Place at Hwy. 231 and Titus Road; Old Central Transfer Station; Anne Building in Elmore; and CEW&SA parking lot at Redland Road facility. There is no longer a drop-off at the intersection of Redland, Firetower and Dozier roads.

To have your upcoming event featured in Elmore County Living’s ‘Coming Up!’ pages, email information to editor@ lakemartinmagazine.com by the first of the month.

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• Medication Reviews • Diabetes Products and Services • Auto-refill Available Upon Request • Online Prescription Refills • Text when prescriptions are ready • Drive-Thru • Flu Shots • Immunizations • Medicare Part D

Tallassee Civitan Club The Civitans meet at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Budde Building on Gilmer Avenue. This volunteer organization serves individual and community needs by funding and hosting special events for people with developmental disabilities. A social time at 5:30 p.m. precedes meetings.

Countywide Cleanup Day The Elmore County Commission sponsors free cleanup days for residents on the second Saturday of odd numbered months. Drop off household and yard trash free of charge at the following locations: old highway department in Kent; old highway department shop in Holtville; Crenshaw Park; Sweeten School; Emerald Mountain

Products & Specialties Broad availability of brand and generic prescription medications Private-label, over-the-counter medications Pharmacist counseling • Gifts & Novelties • Greeting Cards

www.apothecaryinc.com 1405 Gilmer Avenue | Tallassee, AL

334.283.3120

ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

43

Business & Service Directory

Acapulco Mexican Grill MONDAY

Night Kids Eat FREE! TUESDAY

$2 Beer after 4pm THURSDAY

Karaoke Night 6-10 $1.99 Margarita ALL DAY 2867 Gilmer Avenue Tallassee (334) 283-2725

Best Margaritas in town!

MADE FRESH DAILY!

Pick up Elmore County Living at these locations: Eclectic

Bezlo's Bar & Grill Cornerstone Cafe Red Hill Gallery Eclectic Town Hall Eclectic Library Johnson Furniture 1st Community Bank Eclectic Do-It Center Trustmark Bank

Lake Martin

Russell Lands Kowaliga Marina Lake Martin Dock Lake Martin Mini Mall Nail’s Convenience Store Children's Harbor Cotton’s BBQ

Millbrook

Verizon Wireless First Community Bank Lucretia Cauthen Realty Bliss Salon Millbrook Chamber of Commerce Realty Central Stone & Britt Law Gene Jones Insurance

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Liveoak Agency

Mitchell Veterinarian Hospital

Lake Pharmacy The Golden Frog The Boy’s Store First Community Bank

Aldridge Borden Company Bennett’s Archery 1st Community Bank Russell Do It Center Bumper’s Karen’s Mane Tamers River Ridge Steakhouse Emerald Mountain Store Redland Market Seivers Accounting Wetumpka Depot Players A Touch of Class Angel Locksmith Verizon Wireless Unplugged Must Stop Café Alfa Realty Wetumpka Century 21 Brandt Wright Realty Wells Fargo BB&T Jackson Thornton Lee’s Auto Repair McQuick Printing Company Hankins Insurance Hog Rock BBQ

Slapout

Tallassee

Kent Eagle Y Petro RoadRunner Convenience Store Herren Hill Pharmacy The Apothecary Community Hospital Tallassee Health & Rehabilitation 5 Points Store Tallassee Automotive Tallassee Rehab 1st Community Bank PrimeSouth Bank Tallassee Chamber of Commerce Tallassee Community Library Wal-Mart District Nineteen St. Vincent De Paul Catholic Church Three Lakes Dental Ivy Creek Game Day Clips

Wetumpka

ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

Wetumpka YMCA Adams Drugs Bell Chiropractic Wetumpka Urgent Care USAmeriBank A Beautiful Creation Austin’s Flowers Camo Country Alabama State Employees Credit Union Smokin S BBQ Elmore Community Hospital Wetumpka Preschool Wetumpka City Library Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce City of Wetumpka Administration Bldg.

Coosa River Adventures Stoddard’s Bait Shop Collier Ford Wee Ones Daycare Wetumpka Health & Rehab Canal Grocery Kim’s Corner Wetumpka Flea Market River Perk

Our Advertisers • To Join, Call 334-567-7811 Acapulco Mexican Grill..............................................................................4 4 Alabama Power...........................................................................................2 Allstate, Mark Shaw...................................................................................1 4 All That Space...........................................................................................3 1 City of Millbrook........................................................................................1 5 Community Hospital...................................................................................4 5 District Nineteen........................................................................................1 4 Gene Jones Insurance.................................................................................4 3 HR Management Solutions..........................................................................1 4 Jackson Thornton.......................................................................................2 7 Karen's Mane Tamers.................................................................................4 4 Kowaliga Whole Health.............................................................................4 4 Lake Martin Zip Line...................................................................................4 7 Liveoak Agency.........................................................................................3 1 Mark's Service Center......................................................................................1 4 River Region Dermatology................................................................................4 4 Russell Lands on Lake Martin..................................................................22-23, 48 Singleton's Alignment.......................................................................................4 4 Tallassee Health & Rehabilitation, LLC...........................................................3 9 The Apothecary Pharmacy..........................................................................4 3 Wetumpka Depot Players............................................................................3 9 Wetumpka Flea Market...............................................................................2 5 Wind Creek Casino.....................................................................................3

Don't see your ad in this issue of Elmore County Living? Neither did the thousands of potential customers who read our magazine monthly.

To advertise please contact - Marilyn Hawkins 334-202-5108 - Kat Raiford 334-444-8981 or stop by our office located at 300 Green Street, Wetumpka AL 36092

Community Hospital Tallassee

805 Friendship Road, Tallassee • 334-283-6541

24/7 Physician Staffed • Emergency Care ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

45

Grilled to Perfection Toss together a variety of veggies for a quick and easy summer dish

MK Moore

SOUTHERN DELIGHTS Mary Katherine Moore is an Alabama State Fair pepper jelly champion, has butchered a wild hog in her kitchen and grows heirloom tomatoes in her backyard.

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Don’t you hate it when everyone is outside hanging by the grill with an adult beverage, and you are stuck in the kitchen alone with your lonely glass of wine? Well, on the bright side, you are in the air conditioning while everyone else is sweating outside, but you don’t want to miss the fun!

Why not take the meal to the grill? A few little pre-party preparations will get you outside where the action is.

One of my favorite sides, especially with chicken, is grilled squash, peppers, tomatoes and onions. This dish was born on a rooftop in Brooklyn using a very illegal grill. It started as a kabob.

I dutifully sliced yellow squash into perfectly even rounds. The onion and peppers were cubed.

Chicken was sliced, and cherry tomatoes were washed and dried. I skewered dozens of kabobs and hoisted them up on the roof to grill each ingredient to perfection.

But, really, who has time for all that chopping and skewering? Especially since it all comes off the kabob into a big bowl for people to serve themselves? Not me, I tell you. The next incarnation was basically a version of the chopped salad.

This is so fast you can make it in a flash for a regular family meal, or it could get you out of the kitchen and back in the middle of the party where you belong.

This side can go with everything from chicken to ribs to hamburgers.

You will need yellow squash, preferably small, tender ones. I got in big trouble pulling small new squashes from Sweetheart’s dad’s

plants. Apparently, had the tiny squash had the chance to mature, each one would have served a family of four. Oops. But all was forgiven when I caught him eating the leftovers out of the fridge.

You will need onions, whatever kind you like – white, yellow, purple. Vidalia’s are quite tasty in this dish. I don’t like green bell peppers, so I opt for red, but choose what you like. And you will need some tomatoes. This time, you can use big tomatoes, but I still like the cherry ones.

To prep, and this can be done the night before, slice the squash in half lengthwise, cut the onion into thick slices, clean the peppers and cut into quarters. This is like 20 knife cuts, as opposed to 100 cuts needed to get all this produce into kabobsized pieces.

For the tomatoes, if you are going to use the big ones, just cut them in half right before grilling.

And here is the reason I like the little ones. All the veggies are going to get grilled, with a little char around the edges. If using the little tomatoes, you realize that every time you bite into one, it kind of pops in your mouth. For some unexplained reason, I love this sensation. So I don’t mind skewering a bunch. You do have to skewer these or use a grill basket to keep them from falling through the grate.

Dump all your prepped veggies into a big bowl. Toss with some olive oil, salt and pepper.

That is it. Stick in the fridge. When time to grill, dump all the vegetables out on the grill (me) or arrange in neat rows of similar vegetable (Sweetheart).

Be sure to keep turning the vegetables and checking each piece for individual doneness.

Once a piece is soft and done, flip it into the original big bowl. Once all the pieces are done, turn the veggies out onto a big cutting board and rough chop those big pieces. Add all those readyto-burst tiny tomatoes at the end. Dump everything back in the bowl and, ta da – the perfect grilled side.

ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

256-596-3081

The best memories are made at

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Russell Lands On Lake Martin is a breathtaking lake community with 25,000 acres of forest set among Lake Martin’s 40,000 plus acres of pristine water and nearly 900 miles of shoreline. The largest premier neighborhood at Russell Lands On Lake Martin is The Ridge—where ownership comes with an array of extras – The Ridge Club, a 10-acre recreation complex, miles of hiking and walking trails as well as nature and waterfront parks, and a state-of-the-art Ridge Marina -- all designed to connect you with family, friends, nature, and always, the lake.

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HOMES & HOMESITES AVAILABLE

256.215.7011

LAKE MARTIN, ALABAMA