Elmore County Living July 2018

Elmore

July 2018

County Living

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From the Editor's Desk

STAFF

When life hands you lemons, make lemonade. This is a pretty cliché saying basically meaning we should find the positive in the tragic or negative events. Life tends to throw us curveballs when we least expect it, and all we can do is move forward with a newer appreciation of life’s lessons.

This month has been a particularly eyeopening one for me personally, and for us here at Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. We lost one of our own to a tragic, unpredictable car accident. Mitch Sneed was our editor of five newspapers and a phenomenal, hard-working journalist.

The news has affected us all in different ways but ultimately given us better perspectives on how precious our lives’ little moments truly are. That same week, my first niece was born, bringing joy to my sadness and a reason to reflect and appreciate happiness.

In Elmore County Living this month, we reflect on times gone by and the beautiful moments that make up life. Tom Stubbs is a farmer who’s lived in this area his whole life and enjoys little moments with his family, as they have gatheredat their simple, rustic cabin. He hand-built the structure from trees he had grown as a child, and he incorporated memories throughout his décor. Read more about Stubbs’ cabin on page 12.

Parents have the opportunity to spend priceless time with their children and teach them to appreciate the outdoors. The AWF’s Annual Youth Fishing Rodeo is a family-friendly event reminding children of the simplicity of a sport, such as fishing. Find out the details on page 16.

Whether you’re living out your dream job, like Tony Buenger at Guest House Studios on page 8, or embracing the deep-rooted history of Red Hill Community Center on page 22, holding on to the moments that mean the most is always important.

MK Moore reflects on a recipe gone bad that turned into a moment of laughter on page 46, and Jeff Langham reminds us to slow down as he offers some options for a relaxing night on the couch streaming movies on page 28.

From the smiling faces captured in our Out & About pages to the passion our columnists have for their subject matters, beauty can be found throughout everyday life in this issue of Elmore County Living.

I personally want to thank you, our readers, for your continual support and for allowing me the opportunity to meet so many interesting people who enjoy life’s little moments.

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

MK Moore Brandi Criswell Micah Bennett Lonna Upton Sharon Fox Jim Denney

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

Amy Passaretti, Editor

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Chairman

Kenneth Boone

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

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CONTENTS ON THE COVER The annual Youth Fishing Rodeo, held at the AWF pond in Millbrook, provides kids the opportunity to learn how to fish and spend family time in the outdoors. Photo courtesy of AWF

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8

26 Columns

Features 12

From the Ground Up

26

Back in the Day

16

Fishing Rodeo

28

Movie Man

22

Red Hill Rocks

30

The Gamer

24

Sip 'n' Jam

32

Community Care

46

Southern Delights

Hand-Built Family Cabin

AWF Exposes Youth to Outdoors Donations Renovate Building CoosaPalooza Brewfest

Mystery Solved

Stay Home and Stream Dive into the Future Hope is Not Lost Tomato Sammie

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In Every Issue 6

Extra! Extra!

8

Business Spotlight

33

Out & About

40

Coming Up

44

Where to Find Us

News Briefs

Guest House Studios In Elmore County Fun for Everyone Distribution List

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Benton named Chief of WPD On June 18, Greg Benton was named the new chief of the Wetumpka Police Department.

The South Alabama native is in his second stint as a police chief in the state he calls home. He was chief of the Dothan Police Department before he retired from DPD in 2014.

"I love to do what I'm doing.

It's kind of hard to get it out of your blood after you've done it for 27 years. I retired for two years, but there's only so much golf and fishing you can do before you get bored. I got ready to come back and do something," Benton said.

During his younger years in Blakely, Benton grew up

around the police station, as both of his grandfathers were in law enforcement. He graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2002, and when

Benton was chief of the Dothan Police Department, the station achieved accreditation from the Commission Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, recognition that is very hard to attain and retain, Benton said.

He also was a member of the SWAT team for 15 years and worked his way up to team commander.

"My end game is to make our department the premier department in the River Region ... and more than anything, to have quality employees. When an employee begins, I don't want them to ever want to go anywhere else. I want them to love it here," said Benton.

Wetumpka player goes international Zach Norton, a soccer star from Wetumpka, trains a long way from home. Norton was sought out by coaches at the i2i Soccer Academy in York, England, where he will move in September and begins playing in October.

His family owns the popular restaurant Coaches Corner Bar and Grill in the downtown area.

While his mom was initially hesitant of the opportunity, the 19-year-old received full support

when the coaches of i2i Soccer Academy came calling.

Norton's passion for the sport is rooted in friends and family, including his grandfather who played soccer professionally in Colombia and his parents love for sports. In England, soccer dominates the list of respected sports, and Norton said he is excited to be around people who share his passion.

Vendor sales support Eclectic Public Library Some 20 vendors raised $200 for the Eclectic Public Library last month during a wares fair and arts and craft event at Eclectic’s City Hall.

Baked goods, handmade small-batch goat's milk products, art and other merchandises was available for sale.

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Mary Fran Healey named Distinguished Woman of Elmore County

Extra!

Extra!

News from Elmore County and surrounding areas

Mary Fran Healey, a rising senior at Wetumpka High School, was named Elmore County’s Distinguished Young Woman.

Healey was chosen from among 17 talented Elmore County seniorsto-be and received $1,600 in scholarship money with the title.

Healey won $700 in additional scholarship money for winning the "Be Your Best Self" Essay Award and took top honors in the interview and self-expression categories of the contest.

As winner of Elmore County’s Distinguished Young Women,

Healey will advance to the state competition at Montgomery’s Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church to be held in January.

The first and second runners-up in Saturday night’s competition were Emma Grace Coyle of Tallassee High School and Jaala Hall of Elmore County High School, respectively.

The Distinguished Young Women, formerly America’s Junior Miss, was founded in 1958 as a way to reward the accomplishments of high school senior girls seeking to pursue higher education.

A New Day for Tallassee's Thurlow Dam Water levels on Lake Thurlow were lowered last month in preparation for a multiphase project to replace spillway gates at Tallassee's Thurlow Dam. The 2018 drawdown is tentatively scheduled to end Oct. 31, with water levels returning to normal pool level. The work is being done during the summer to take advantage of drier weather.

The drawdown is needed to replace the dam’s spillway crest gates, known as flashboards, which were installed in the 1920s. The steel replacements, called Obermeyer gates, will be more efficient than the old, 36-gate flashboard system.

Obermeyer gates use adjustable, inflatable bladders to control the gates and more accurately manage water resources.

The new design will feature only four spans that operate independently across the top of the dam but will mimic the historic look of the original dam.

A similar drawdown is planned for 2019 from June through October.

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Studio B is for mixing tunes and editing video

Guest House Studios Recording company grows local talent Story & Photos by Amy Passaretti

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ith star-studded artists such as Hank Williams, Lionel Richie and Emmylou Harris hailing from towns near Elmore County, it’s no surprise that local musical talent thrives in the area.

Tony Buenger, owner of Guest House Studios in Eclectic, was pleasantly surprised to find a market fit with young, enthusiastic artists here or in the area needing guidance and opportunitites to hone their skills.

“The goal of the studio was to grow young artists and help move them on to bigger stages and bigger labels.

This gives them the opportunity to get their feet wet and know what it’s like,” said Buenger.

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Business Spotlight

When he retired from the Air Force in 2007, Buenger landed in Eclectic and decided to build a home and a studio on 10 acres of land with his wife and business partner, Jody.

Growing up playing the guitar, Buenger has been a member of bands throughout his life. He played with garage bands in high school, and when he entered the IT career field in the Air Force, he was surrounded by other musically inclined talent.

“I was able to be in a band or start a band with fellow Air Force members or different local residents at every station I was assigned to. I had a lot of different experiences playing guitar around the country, including Colorado, Hawaii, Guam, Alaska and South Dakota,” said Buenger.

Since bands typically practice wherever someone

owns a sound and PA system, Buenger decided to purchase a four-track multi-track recorder in 1994. He began recording his bands’ practices to evaluate their sounds and realized this was something he also could do for others.

“Eventually, I built up my equipment over the years, so I already had what I wanted in mind for a studio,” he said.

The music studio on site is designed to mimic something similar to Muscle Shoals, said Buenger. It includes all the necessary equipment that’s needed to record a full band, which is how many larger studios are set up.

Studio A, where the recording is done, is built with acoustics in mind. Studio B in another building has been set up for mixing and final refinements, along with video editing.

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Studio A doubles as a selfcontained apartment for traveling bands

The in-house studio provides room to record a full band

“Everything is visual now, so probably 50 percent of the business now is videography. We do music videos for the artists that come in to record an album or song, as well as weddings and other professional videography,” Buenger said.

The studio facility doubles as a self-contained apart-

We are one family, and we mourn the senseless tragedy at the Capital Gazette together.

Our hearts grieve the loss of our fellow newspaper staffers.

We wish comfort and peace for their families, friends, co-workers and all who have been touched by this heartbreak – and healing to those who are recovering.

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

TPI

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P.O. Box 999, 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35011 256.234.4281

ment for bands traveling from long distances. There is a bedroom, full kitchen and bathroom, which is how the facility became known as Guest House Studios.

Buenger engages session musicians that have experience in videos to assist the newer artists. He also has access to national session musicians that can record tracks remotely and send them digitally to be mixed into recorded songs.

While some cover bands come through looking for simple products to help them land gigs, original artists make up the largest percentage of talent that comes through the studio, said Buenger. Over the years, he’s seen a variety of Southern gospel, contemporary Christian, rock and country singers pass through the doors.

“We get a lot of talent coming through the studio, including three top 20 American Idol contestants: Laurel Taylor from Tallassee; Ben Honeycut from Birmingham; and Jessica Meuse from Slapout,” he added.

Currently, Buenger is managing Ella Langley, an upand-coming country artist, and said he has watched her grow into a seasoned songwriter and performer. Guest House Studios is producing her debut album, which will include a cover song by local Alexander City musician, Chad Wilson.

GHS also has been working with The Wilson Brothers Band from Alexander City. The band already has a successful CMT music video, and the studio is handling some photography and video work for the group.

Jody assists with public relations, event coordination and catering for the facility that could also be used to host other events when there is no studio schedule.

Guest House Studios is located at 641 Mockingbird Lane in Eclectic. Visit guesthousestudios.com or the Facebook page for more information.

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From the Ground up Family cabin hand built from childhood trees Story by Lonna Upton & Photos by Micah Bennett

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Tom Stubbs relaxes on the front porch of the cabin he built, enjoying the fruits of his labor

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emories of days gone by surround Tom Stubbs’ family members when they gather together for holidays and special events. Across the street stands the home where Stubbs’ grandparents lived when he was a boy.

Just down the road, Stubbs’ childhood home, the home where he was born, is still in the family. And, on that same property, which has been in his family since 1927, Stubbs built a farmhouse using lumber from trees he planted as a child.

“The house is a family museum, a place we can all get together,” Stubbs said.

Born on the property in 1935, Stubbs has seen changes in the Wetumpka area, many of which have occurred on his own land. Even though his farming days have been cut to only those hours needed to maintain a small vegetable garden, he is surrounded by farm implements and machinery.

“We were poor, dirt farmers back then but didn’t know it. If we didn’t grow it, we didn’t eat it. Now I have more junk here than anybody I know,” Stubbs said.

In 1952, when he was a junior in high school, Stubbs needed a Future Farmers of America project, so he asked his father for permission to

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plant trees on a plot of land that wasn’t being used for farming.

“My daddy was fine with it, and my agriculture teacher, C.S.Bazemore, one super guy, got around 2,000 pine seedlings for me to plant,” Stubbs said.

While the trees grew, Stubbs left home at 19 years of age when he joined the Air Force. He worked as a flight engineer, taught flying and served two tours of duty as a member of the Air Commandos supporting the Special Forces.

He was stationed at several different bases, but he always wanted to get back home to Alabama.

“I went to every school they would let me. I even did speech competition at the academy in California,” Stubbs said.

When he returned home in 1975, Stubbs worked as an Alabama law enforcement officer with the prison system and as a licensed auctioneer. But his trees were calling, and in 1983, he cut down what he needed to build a house. His brother owned a sawmill, so together they cut and planed the logs for the lumber to build Stubbs’ replica of a 1930s farm house.

The outside of the house is board and batten with a tin roof. The front porch is the length of the house and has room for a porch swing and several rockers.

The house has a small entryway with a large bath straight ahead. Cleverly, the bathroom also has access from the back porch to allow for quick clean up after a busy day working on the farm. One side of the house is the kitchen and the other side has a bedroom and an office for his auctioneering equipment.

Every room contains memories from Stubbs’ childhood, either saved by family members through the years, purchased at antique stores or built by Stubbs himself from plans that were specific to the time period.

The kitchen’s focal point is an original iron wood-burning stove from Red Mountain Birmingham Range and Stove Company. It has a wood box with a draft vent and food

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warmer.

“We can cook an entire meal for everyone here on that stove with no problem,” Stubbs said.

A large copper tub holds the wood used to feed the stove, and cast iron skillets and pots adorn the top, ready to be filled with peas and beans, okra and greens.

Stubbs built both of the dining tables in the kitchen from salvaged wood. For a smaller table and a set of shelves, he used solid heart pine and pegs to build the pieces. He also built a large wooden cabinet with glass doors, exposed hinges and glass knobs displaying china and glass he has collected.

“It’s just a hobby. I really enjoy working with wood and building things,” Stubbs said.

Another piece in the kitchen, called a Hoosier cabinet because it it from Indiana, Stubbs explained, has a porcelain counter with a pullout shelf used for bread or biscuit making. One door hides a built-in sifter, so all the flour could be poured into it and then sifted straight into a bowl placed underneath. A Daisy churn sits on the cabinet, and the walls around it boast antique sifters and ladles.

A small shelf, approximately 6 inches deep and about a foot lower than the ceiling, stretches across one wall to showcase original medicine bottles, Coke bottles, tobacco and Stubbs' parents oil cans, baking powder purchased this solid cans and other old tins wood bed for only $8 and glass pieces.

A picture of his father as a kid with his family hangs in the kitchen along with another photo of his father’s Ford Model A. Framed nearby, the car’s bill of sale shows the Jan. 5, 1923, purchase price as $175 plus $1.31 tax.

The bedroom on the other side of the house has his parents’ first bed, sturdily built with oak, sweet gum and poplar, purchased for $8. Stubbs has restored the original furniture pieces in the house himself.

“Nothing has stain or varnish on it. I use a 50/50 mix of linseed oil and mineral spirits, so you can see the beauty of the natural wood,” Stubbs said.

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Tom Stubbs' office space includes a freestanding fireplace and Amish-built rocking chairs Just like the kitchen, this room also has a shelf near the ceiling on all four walls to showcase more items. Stubbs has collected hand-woven baskets and old tools, such as a tack hammer and a farrier’s horseshoe hammer. The room contains a dovetailed pine chest he built and a dresser he rescued from the Wetumpka dump. He restored the dresser to its natural finish, exhibiting pieces of carnival, hobnail and satin glass on top. Surrounded by old kettles, fish scales and locks, a Fatso potbelly stove stands in the corner.

In the small office, Stubbs placed a Canadian freestanding fireplace with a heavy flue, which can heat the entire home, he explained. Stubbs said he wanted the house to be basic and primitive, able to heat and cool without electricity. He placed it near one of two natural springs on the property, so water would be readily available. Stubbs purchased two rocking chairs made by the Amish that sit in the room. He was always impressed with their craftsmanship and the durability of their goods, he said.

Besides the items in the farmhouse, Stubbs collects old wagons and carriages, even an old wooden sled. He and his daughter own Sandy’s Carriage Service and can provide a horse-drawn replica of a 1901 hearse for funerals or a carriage for special occasions.

Stubbs has never lived in the farmhouse he built on memories, but he spends lots of time there with family and friends reminiscing.

Antique tools, lanterns and copper kettles surround the Fatso potbelly stove in the bedroom

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The annual fishing rodeo always turns out a large crowd

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Fishing Rodeo Alabama Wildlife Federation exposes youth to outdoor activity Story by Betsy Iler Photos courtesy of Alabama Wildlife Federation

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Children are provided stringers for their catches

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Parents have the opportunity to introduce their kids to fishing

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et the kids up early and give them one last hurrah for the summer at the Alabama Wildlife Federation’s Youth Fishing Rodeo at the catfish pond on Aug. 4. The 15th annual free fishing fest starts at 7 a.m. and is open to children ages 15 and under, said Alabama Nature Center Camps and Community Programs Coordinator Matt Vines.

“This event is one of the things that connects people to the outdoors in a family setting, especially the kids,” Vines said. “They have a great time, and this is a good experience that hopefully encourages them to go outside as they get older.”

Though a free event, the rodeo is limited to 200 participants and reservations are recommended, Vines said. Participants should call 334-285-4550 to reserve a spot and sign up for a free T-shirt. Snacks and drinks will be available, and door prizes will be awarded. All participants must be accompanied by an adult and should bring their own fishing poles, coolers, buckets and other gear.

“We hand out stringers to the kids during the rodeo, and there are door prizes, too – things like cups, coolers, tackle boxes, hats, gifts cards and fishing gear,” Vines explained.

Each participant is allowed up to five fish to bring home

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Kids will be allowed to catch and release as many fish as they want until 11 a.m., and they will be allowed to take home five of the catfish they catch.

“It’s not a tournament – we will have a tournament later in the year. This is just a fun event for the kids. It always fills up though, so we need them to call the office and get their names on the list,” he added.

Vines said the event is a great opportunity for quality family time that could help children develop an appreciation and understanding of the natural environment, as well as an introduction to the sport

of fishing.

Gates open at 6:30 a.m., and participants will meet at the pavilion in the pecan grove to pick up stringers and T-shirts. Fishing will start at 7 a.m. at the upper pond. Alabama Nature Center is located on the AWF grounds at 3050 Lanark Rd., Millbrook.

Sponsors are needed to help stock the pond with fish and provide fish food, bait, door prizes, bottled water, ice, snacks, T-shirts and portable toilets and hand-washing stations. Anyone interested in sponsoring part of the event is encouraged to call Vines for information.

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Red Hill Rocks Community donations fund building's roof replacement

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Story by Amy Passaretti Photos by Jim Denney, Kat Raiford and Amy Passaretti

building that once housed an entire events are the highlight of her week, said Castleberry. school system, boasts a stage on When the regular house band takes a weekend off which Hank Williams has pereach month, Cecil Malone and his band the Montgomery formed multiple times and is the Junction fill the void. The seven-piece ensemble loves the cornerstone of fun and fellowship atmosphere of the club and agrees to play for free when in the community continues to available. Hank Williams’ descendant, Ricky Fitzgerald thrive due to its loyal residents. The also plays every third Saturday night, and other artists Red Hill Community Center collected $26,000 from its loget together to play on stage. cal supporters to renovate the building's roof.

At each function, no admission is required, but dona“It’s amazing that our community was able to raise that tions are accepted. much strictly from their hearts,” said Ray Hall, secretary Red Hill Community Club rents the building for of the Red Hill Community Club. wedding receptions, family reunions, birthday parties, During this time, the organization also received 501(c) once-a-year Red Hill School reunions and more. The cost (3) nonprofit stais $175 to rent, tus, allowing them plus a refundable to purchase sup$150 deposit that plies and necessiwill be returned ties for the center if the building is at a lower cost. left in a clean and The building, orderly fashion. which will be 100 For smaller years old in nine groups, such as years, was given Bible studies or to the community civic meetings, by the state shortthere is no charge ly after the school to rent the room Red Hill VFD is housed in the building shut its doors in for a few hours, and helps with fundraisers 1966. Since then, but donations are the Red Hill comappreciated. Rentmunity has taken full advantage of all it has to offer. ers can use the area any time, except no later than 10 p.m.

Each Friday, The Red Hill Rendition band plays from The center open room that used to be the school’s au6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and there is always an impressive ditorium provides space and plenty of tables and chairs turnout. The band’s music varies among the sounds of – many of which date back to the school days – for any country, Western, gospel and pop. Anywhere from 40 to occasion. Also included in the rental is a full kitchen with 80 people from all over the area spend their Friday nights access to a steam table, stove and refrigerators. Additional socializing with friends, line dancing through the night rooms are available for use as well. and sharing food through a potluck meal.

The Red Hill volunteer fire department is headquar“We have so many regulars that have enjoyed coming tered in the basement, with its trucks and equipment on for years, we’re like a big family here,” said Paula Castlesite. During Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day, the fireberry, president of the club. men cook and sell barbecue and camp stew to the comOne of the musicians goes out of his way to pick up munity as a fundraiser. an elderly lady who is now in a nursing home, as these Future plans for the Red Hill building include renovat-

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ing an unused section into a museum featuring items and photos starting from the early 1900s in northeastern Elmore County.

To help fund this project, the group is selling original building bricks that were taken from a torn down shed for $125. The buyer has the option to engrave the name of an honoree or loved one on the brick, and it will be added to the garden area surrounding the flagpole out front.

“It’s not just people that are from here helping out.

There are so many people that have moved in at the lake that are huge supporters of our goals and have helped out a lot. They love attending our events,” said Shirley Lett, board member with Red Hill Community Club.

The old Red Hill school building's roof was replaced

Hank Williams

Crowds love to dance to the weekend bands' music

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Sip 'n' Jam

W

hen you combine Alabama craft breweries, local vendors, live music, thriving downtown businesses and multiple city organizations, the end result is an innovative new event in Wetumpka with an equally dynamic name: CoosaPalooza Brewfest.

Main Street Wetumpka is partnering with the Coosa River Craft House to host a rocking good time on July 21 starting at 2 p.m. The headliner band Jeff and The Johnsons will be performing in the space next to the walk under Bibb Graves Bridge from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

“The goal of the event is to highlight Alabama breweries in a setting that allows people to come downtown and appreciate other businesses and opportunities they may not have realized were being offered,” said Main Street Wetumpka Executive Director Jenny Stubbs.

The idea emerged after a long list of new events in downtown Wetumpka were successful, which ignited local businesses and Main Street Wetumpka’s promotions committee to feed off the momentum. Funds raised from the day will help promote the mission of Main Street to continue bringing the historic district to life.

“Many Main Street volunteers and downtown businesses came together and made something we thought would be really enjoyable for event-goers, while simultaneously promoting what our downtown is all about, including the amazing river walk and Merchant’s Alley,” Stubbs added. “We’re glad to have the Craft House downtown now because they certainly held the initial vision and were instrumental in the planning process.”

The name is the committee’s spin on enjoying the area alongside the focal point of the beautiful Coosa River, while representing entertainment and craft beer.

Some 15 breweries will be showcased at the event, and attendees will have opportunities to taste different beer and try something new, including brews from

Railyard, Yellowhammer, Avondale, Good People, Back Forty and Goat Island.

The event will primarily take place in Merchant’s Alley alongside the river on Orline Street. Starting at Coaches Corner Bar and Grill, the fun will meander through Gold Star Park to the Coosa River Craft House.

Ben Norris will play outside of Coaches Corner from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Allen, Steve and Caryl will play from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Chuck Lofton and Kurt McKinney will entertain crowds at the Craft House from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed by the headliner at 8 p.m.

While this is the first event of its kind in the area, Stubbs said she hopes for a successful turnout, so the organization is able to make this an annual event.

“I really want to thank the dedicated committee chairs and members, most especially those downtown businesses that have truly done a great deal of the legwork and synergistically worked together to make this happen,” said Stubbs.

Brewfest booklets will be sold for $20, for attendees to sample craft beer.

Purchasees will be able to buy the beers they enjoy the most. All proceeds will benefit Main Street Wetumpka’s mission of downtown revitalization.

The collaboration of many Wetumpka avenues with the same vision is what will continue to produce enthusiastic ideas.

“Working together as a community is what is helping Main Street accomplish its mission of revitalizing downtown, and this event is a perfect example of what can happen when residents, businesses and other community members work together,” said Stubbs.

The event is geared toward those 21 years of age and older, and local vendors will be on hand to sell their goods alongside the breweries. There also will be local food options, with an emphasis on downtown dining establishments.

Main Street and the City of Wetumpka are hosting the event to give the community an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful sights of the Coosa River and all that downtown has to offer, said Stubbs.

Jeff & The Johnsons

Ben Norris

Chuck Lofton and Kurt McKinney

Mystery Solved

Bicentennial Fountain marks a historic landmark in Gold Star Park

Sharon fox

BACK IN THE DAY sharon fox is the curator at the elmore county museum located in wetumpka.

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My dog and I walk through Gold Star Park nearly every day. We each have our favorite spots, and one of his is behind the restrooms by the old cabin. He takes his time, sniffing each and every corner, checking out who has been there since his last visit.

What is the structure back there? Well, that’s something no one I’ve talked to seems to know. It’s cement, and each section has a marble plaque with a character trait listed: Loyal, Peace, Happiness, Valor, Purity, Freedom, Bravery and Prosperity. Pokémon Go calls it the “Octagon of Ideals,” but I doubt such a beautiful piece would have such a name.

It became my goal to find out what it was, how it came about and what, if anything, is its official name.

I did not run to Google it immediately. I only resorted to that when I couldn’t find anyone who knew anything about it. Google only came up with others who had seen it

and wondered what it was, which only made me more determined to find out what I could.

The octagon was built in 1976 as a part of Wetumpka’s celebration of its bicentennial year, and it was appropriately called the Bicentennial Fountain. When first constructed, it was a fountain, with water flowing up in the air, colored red, white and blue. It sat behind where the restrooms are currently located, though at the time the restrooms hadn’t been built.

Once the bicentennial was over and things settled down, the fountain was a beautiful part of the park and used during occasional celebrations. The lights were changed to green, yellow and pink during Easter, and it often was the centerpiece for services held Easter Sunday.

When did it become just a lovely flowerbed with ideals in marble? Sometime in April of 1979, the State of Alabama was part of an historic flood. That’s not surprising, as our

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history is filled with battles between floods and fires, but this flood was huge. The weather that year was more active than usual due to El Niño. The hurricane season was busier than ever, and rain was constant all over the country, breaking records held for more than a century.

Businesses and homes near the river in Wetumpka were in danger of the floods. Business owners hurried to move merchandise up to the top floors of their stores, and homeowners transported their treasured possessions higher, away from the nearing water.

The park was completely underwater. It took days for the water to recede to a point where recovery began.

The City of Wetumpka sent men to the park to determine what needed to be done in that area. The group of men stood at the edge of the flood waters discussing the needs when they heard a terrific noise, as if a sink hole was opening up right beside them. They turned toward the sound just in time to watch as the fountain was lifted by the floodwaters and floated several feet to rest where the restrooms would eventually be built. The power pole, lines and plumbing were all ripped out at the same time and floated right along with it. It was an amazing sight, according to Randy Logan, the public works director at the time.

The fountain was left where it landed, the power pole and lines removed and the plumbing cleaned up and disconnected. Many years later, restrooms were built in the park, and the plans required the fountain to be moved to accommodate the building. It took an entire afternoon to move thousands of pounds of stone that a flooded river only took seconds to lift.

Take a few moments out of your day, find a bench and enjoy this ivyfilled piece of beauty in the park.

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Stay Home and Stream

With movie-streaming services more prevalent than ever and with summer temperatures continuing to soar, the climate-controlled environment of home may be preferable to the local multiplex. Let’s focus on three popular services – Netflix, Amazon Prime and Hulu – for some films to focus on when scanning through the oft times overwhelming number of selections that these services offer.

Poor Johnny Depp has been the victim of plenty of media speculation recently with stories questioning the condition of his health, finances and career. Netflix allows you to create your own double feature to enjoy Johnny Depp at the height of his fame: Start with Finding Neverland (2004), the Oscar-nominated film about playwright J. M. Barrie and his relationship

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with a family that inspired him to create Peter Pan. Depp scored a Best Actor nomination for his portrayal of Barrie.

The film also served as the inspiration for the stage musical of the same name in 2012.

Round out the Depp double feature with another Oscarnominated treat, Chocolat (2000), which stars Juliette Binoche as a young mother who opens an enchanting chocolate shop in a small French village. She and her chocolate quickly begin to influence the lives of the townspeople, especially the dashing Johnny Depp, in very different and interesting ways.

Alas, perhaps a Ben Affleck film festival better suits certain streaming tastes: Gone Baby Gone (2007) – Ben Affleck (in his directorial debut) guides his brother Casey in this riveting adaptation of the Dennis Lehane (Mystic River, Shutter Island) novel about two private investigators and their desperate search for an abducted 4-year-old girl in Boston.

The Company Men (2010) deals with the brutal realities of downsizing jobs in corporate America and features Ben Affleck, Kevin Costner, Chris Cooper and Tommy Lee Jones

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under the direction of John Wells (TV’s ER).

Now that Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom has exploded box office records this summer, Netflix is providing the opportunity to revisit the first three entries into the Jurassic Park mega-franchise: Jurassic Park (1993), The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997) and Jurassic Park III (2001). This series, the result of collaborative efforts between two entertainment geniuses – Steven Spielberg and the late Michael Crichton – is considered groundbreaking in the development of computer-generated imagery and animatronic visual effects.

Osment, a childlike android in a futuristic society.

A.I. was not well received by critics or at the box office; nevertheless, I personally rank it as one of my favorite Spielberg films.

If you want to be reminded as to why Robert Redford is still a superstar after more than a 50year career in show business, watch All Is Lost (2013), an intense survival drama that stars the screen icon as a man lost at sea. He is the only cast member, and the film has very few spoken words. A must see!

Jeff Langham

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

Zodiac (2007) focuses on the story of the manhunt for a notorious serial killer who called himself the Zodiac and terrorized the San Francisco Bay Area during the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Directed by David Fincher (Seven, Fight Club), the film stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo and Robert Downey Jr. It is no spoiler to reveal that the Zodiac killer case remains one of northern California’s most infamous unsolved crimes. This fascinating and deliberately paced movie could haunt a viewer for days.

The Glass Castle (2017) is based on Jeannette Walls’ 2005 best-selling memoir of the same name and depicts Walls’ harrowing experience as a child of poverty. Academy Award Winner Brie Larson stars as Walls and is joined by a strong supporting cast, including Naomi Watts and Woody Harrelson.

The Mechanic (1972) – Remember the reigning action star of the 1960s through the 1980s? Bronson was an ascending star when he portrayed a top assassin in this brutal film. The movie’s popularity resulted in a remake of the same name in 2011 with Jason Statham assuming the Bronson role.

Dead Man Walking (1995) won an Oscar for lead actress Susan Sarandon in her portrayal of Sister Helen Prejean who establishes a special relationship with death row inmate Matthew Poncelet (Sean Penn) in this gripping true story.

A.I. Artificial Intelligence (2001) is the result of two of the greatest directors of all time – Steven Spielberg and Stanley Kubrick – teaming up. The film tells the story of David, played by Haley Joel

Hulu is also capitalizing on the Redford legend. Don’t miss Redford as director of The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000), a sports film centered on the world of golf and starring Will Smith, Matt Damon and Charlize Theron. Beloved film veteran Jack Lemmon also pops up here in one of his final roles.

Election (1999) – Directed and written by Alexander Payne (Downsizing), this scathing satire takes on suburban high school life and politics. The film stars Matthew Broderick and Reese Witherspoon, an actress who is currently enjoying a resurgence because of HBO’s wildly popular and award-winning series Big Little Lies.

War Horse (2011) is director Steven Spielberg’s masterful World War I drama based on Michael Morpurgo’s 1982 novel of the same name and its 2007 play adaptation that took Broadway by storm.

Snake Eyes (1998) serves as a reminder to viewers that Nicolas Cage used to be a true movie star as exemplified by this conspiracythriller from virtuoso director Brian De Palma (Carrie, The Untouchables).

Monkey Shines (1988) is memorable as writer/ director George A. Romero’s (Night of the Living Dead) first studio film. Jason Beghe (TV’s Chicago P.D.) stars as a quadriplegic that is terrorized by his intelligent service animal – a monkey with antics that quickly turn this into an unforgettable horror film.

So beat the summer heat and stream away with these cinematic treats! Until next month ...

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Governmental Affairs and a lifelong lover of film.

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Dive into the fu E3 Expo thrills gamers with announcements of new developments Last month, the annual E3 Expo took place in Los Angeles. It’s the year’s biggest moment in video games. Some years are better than others but all bring some amount of fanfare to the industry.

The event provides developers and publishers the opportunity to show off their latest and greatest. Today, we’re looking at some of the new games announced on stage this year – new trailers or additions to older games don’t count in today’s list.

THE ELDER SCROLLS VI The Elder Scrolls has a long and storied history in video games. Even for the uninitiated, the name Skyrim probably rings a bell or two. It’s been almost seven years since the last entry into this franchise, and when developer Bethesda Softworks gave us a 30-second tease at the beginning of this year’s show, we knew it was going to be a good E3.

There aren’t any details past a name just yet, but every time an Elder Scrolls game hits store shelves, big things happen.

We’re very excited to get our hands on this one.

CYBERPUNK 2077 In fairness, Cyberpunk 2077 was actually announced back in 2012. Many thought the project was dead and may never hit store shelves due to an overlong and too-expensive production process. Developer CD Projekt Red shut us all up with a gorgeous gameplay trailer, showing off everything that they’ve been working on behind closed doors. Players will get the opportunity to experience this dystopian, cyberpunk world in the next couple of years.

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HALO: INFINITE If there’s one game series that will truly ignite the nerd in us all, it’s Halo. Microsoft has poked and prodded its golden pony franchise at various points over the past decade, but one pivotal character has been mostly absent: Master Chief. The original star of Halo is set to return in Halo: Infinite, and let me tell you this: the crowd at E3 went wild when a trailer debuted featuring Master Chief and the iconic, orchestral theme of the series. In gaming’s many memorable moments, these surprise and nostalgia-filled moments truly stand out.

GEARS OF WAR 5 While we’re on the Microsoft track, let’s take a moment to look at Gears of War 5. If there was ever a series that I’d place next to Halo as Xbox’s killer app, it’d be this one. This new entry will follow different characters within the same Gears of War universe, offering gamers a fresh take on an old formula. Don’t worry though, from what we can tell, all the action you’d expect from a Gears of War title is still there in spades. If Microsoft continues to honor its fan base with titles like Infinite and Gears 5, Sony and Nintendo had better be careful.

SEKIRO: SHADOWS DIE TWICE FromSoftware has shown continued excellence in the gaming arena. It has produced what could be called its entirely own genre of dungeon-crawling games dubbed the Souls series, in addition to 2015’s Bloodborne. Both offerings are notorious for their obscene difficulty, and it looks like the trend will continue with samurai-centric Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. That it’s based on Japanese culture is about all

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ture of gaming we know of the game so far, apart from its vague 2019 release date. Here’s to hoping we get it sooner rather than later.

BEYOND GOOD AND EVIL 2 I never played the original Beyond Good and Evil, but all I’ve heard are good things. This will be the prequel to the original 2003 title, and with Ubisoft developing it, we’re expecting a solid production. While I can’t speak to my own experience playing the game, its E3 trailer this year was absolutely gorgeous. If the game even comes close to looking like what was shown, I’ll likely pick the game up – at that point, who cares if I played the first one? I recommend that all players watch this trailer.

ASSASSIN’S CREED: ODYSSEY The world can’t get enough of Assassin’s Creed, but I am not complaining. This upcoming franchise entry will take place in ancient Greece and appears to follow the events of 2017’s Assassin’s Creed: Origins. Ubisoft’s new two-year development policy made Origins a 2017 standout, and Odyssey’s getting the same treatment. If that translates into a similarly exceptional experience for Odyssey, there’s no limit to what can be achieved here. I just hope the Assassin’s Creed series can keep its stride, as it’s now more than 10 years and 10 games old.

NIOH 2 I wrote about Nioh in my column earlier this year, and it’s a game that is terribly difficult while at the same time exceedingly fun and intuitive. Like Sekiro, it’s based on Japanese culture – specifically, the samurai of yesteryear that seem to be so popular in gaming and other media.

There’s not much else to say here, as all we got was a short, one-minute long trailer thrown in between other presentations. But given the first game’s underdog success, I think it’s fair to say I’m not the only one eagerly anticipating this one.

DEVIL MAY CRY 5 In another gaming confession, I must admit my experience with the Devil May Cry franchise is limited. It’s a hack-and-slash franchise that’s absurdly popular among gamers for its flair and attitude. The series has gone through a number of redesigns and setting changes since first hitting store shelves in 2001, and it’s settled into being something of an industry staple. It’s been a particularly long dry spell since the last entry, which was in 2013. That probably explains why there was so much applause when this new iteration was announced last month.

While some of these games are still years away from release, it’s exciting to see the new trends in gaming and get a sneak-peek of what is to come.

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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.

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Hope is not lost Know the signs and symptoms of depression to reduce the risk of suicide

Brandi Criswell

COMMUNITY CARE Brandi Criswell is a published scientist and nurse practitioner at ivy creek internal medicine.

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If Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain are any indication of how depression can easily disguise itself despite the appearance of a celebrity life, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms in family and friends.

Depression is a real disease that grips the lives of millions of Americans daily. Many of these people cling to the hope that one day their symptoms will improve.

Depression is a disease though. There is a stigma attached to it in the United States that prevents many people from seeking the help they so desperately need. It is important that the culture changes surrounding mental illness in the U.S.. This could make the conversation less taboo and the idea of seeking help more comfortable. It’s not easy to overcome without professional intervention.

When prominent people who seem to have successful lives commit suicide, others suffering from depression may decide that hope is lost.

The number one cause of suicide is untreated depression. Depression is not the state of being sad for a few days. Depression is defined by a prolonged period of sadness that interferes with a person’s ability to function. Depression can cause weight gain and/or loss; loss of interest in activities; excessive tearfulness; social withdrawal; hopelessness; excessive sleeping; insomnia and anger. It can interfere with a person’s ability to think clearly.

Depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. It is a disease that is highly treatable. Unfortunately, it is a disease that often goes untreated, which increases a person’s risk of suicide.

If someone you know suffers from depression, reach out to them. Let them know you care. Let them know they are not alone. Do not expect them

to tough it out or just get over it. Instead of focusing on the disease, focus on what they mean. Make sure they know how important they are.

People who commit suicide typically do so because they want to end their own suffering, and because they think the world, and the people who they love, would be better off without them.

If someone you know talks about being a burden; feeling trapped; killing himself; loss of reasons to live; or unbearable pain and heartache, he could be at risk for suicide.

Some behaviors that indicate someone is at risk for suicide include excessive drug or alcohol use; reckless behaviors; social withdrawal; excessive sleeping or sleeping too little; agitation and aggression; and giving away important possessions.

How can you help someone who is suffering with depression? Ask them if they are thinking about hurting themselves. If able, reduce their access to highly lethal areas and items.

Be there for them. Listen to them and validate their thoughts and feelings. Some research suggests that just acknowledging and discussing suicide can reduce the risk. Help them get connected to someone who can help: a trusted friend or family member, a counselor or a psychiatrist.

If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, please seek professional help. You can make an appointment with a primary care practitioner, seek the help of a counselor or both. Save the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline’s number: 1-800-8255 TALK and the Crisis Text Line: 741741.

Also, stay in touch with someone during and after treatment for depression. Studies have proven that suicide rates decrease when an at-risk person has someone following up with him.

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OUT & ABOUT

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Huntingdon Students Visit Chamber

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June 11, 2018 Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce 1. Kennedy Norris and Kennedy Crane 2. Abbie Salter 3. Grace Raines and Will Roberson

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4. Noah Grady and Lauren Barnett 5. Cameron Stone and Zatisha Starling 6. Zach Miller, Courtney Lewis and Isabella Eleogo 7. Catherine Yanes and Austin McDowell 8. D’Asia Lashley and Jordan Johnson

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OUT & ABOUT

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Collectors and Collections Reception

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June 12, 2018 Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery 1. Janice Howell, Emily Phyfer and Phyllis Kennedy 2. Brandon and Ginger Glenn 3. Richard Pinckard and Michael Morgan

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4. Charlotte Whetstone, Carly Andrews and Mabrey Whetstone 5. Jo Glenn, Caroline Osborn and Harriet Landrum 6. Matt Burns and Teresa Bechard 7. Shellie and Wade Whitfield

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OUT & ABOUT

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Santuck Flea Market

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July 7, 2018 Santuck 1. Kim Conner and Kathy Allred 2. Layton Smitherman, Ashleigh Hooks and Ruger 3. Kim Jamison, Nicole Newsom, Sydney

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Jamison and Jimmy Truitt 4. Shelby Holloway, Clark Holloway and Mylinh Thrift 5. Hannah Cleckler 6. Megan, Harper and Eric Simpson

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OUT & ABOUT

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Lake Martin Machine Gun, Eclectic 1. Sharon Johnson 2. Fran Brown 3. Barbra Saxby 4. Candy Smith 5. Patricia Johnson 6. Janice Ransom and Madison Johnson 7. Debra Williams and Jodie McGirt

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Church Farmers Market

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July 7, 2018 Trinity Episcopal Church, Wetumpka 1. Chris McElvaine 2. Payton Flores and Al Smith

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3. Del Witherspoon 4. Bill Eller 5. Heather Teate 6. Susan and Jim Glass 7. Albert Riddley and Brayden Hodges

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OUT & ABOUT

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Grand Giveaway

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July 7, 2018 Wetumpka Flea Market & Antiques 1. Jimmy Windham and Tim Walls

2. Cassie McVay and Leslie Suarez

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6. Judy Windham and Don and Alex Rushing

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OUT & ABOUT

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Dixie Division Military Vehicle Exhibit June 9, 2018 Tallassee City Hall

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1. Bruce Share, John Pate, Alan Moseley, Dan Golden and Harry Stokes 2. Michael Roberts, Shirley Pate and Alan and Casey Roberts 3. Tyler and Patrick Hart

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4. Derek and Shelia Gentle 5. Melissa Poe and Caleb Poole 6. Fred Randal and Debra Huey 7. Greg Messer and Russell Parker 8. Scott and Andrew Heizen 9. Ronald Brantley

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Coming Up CALENDAR OF EVENTS

July 19 Healthy Cooking Day Camp

July 21 Radical Raptors

The Elmore County Extension Office will provide this 4-H camp from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the ECEO at 340 Queen Ann Rd., Wetumpka. The cost is $10, and registration is required online at al.4honline.com.

The Alabama Wildlife Center, located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook, will be out at 11:30 a.m. with its raptors to teach about birds of prey. Contact Matt Vines at 334-285-4550 for more information.

July 19 Mammals of Alabama

July 21 CoosaPalooza Brewfest

Come learn about native mammals of Alabama at 6 p.m. at the Alabama Wildlife Federation, located at 3050 Lanark Rd., Millbrook. Discover everything from skins and skulls to tracks and scat. Participants can take home a track cast they create. Contact Tyler Harris at 334-285-4550 for 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 working-class Texans who would do anything to win a new pick-up 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, and the last person standing wins. For information, visit wetumpkadepot.com.

July 20 Old Red Hill School Concert Join members of the community to enjoy a dynamic concert at the Red Hill Community Center at 6:30 p.m. featuring Harlan Burton, Larry Hoyle and Johnny Hassett of the Sweet Younguns, Bryant Duncan, Bill Richardson, Carry Culpepper and Terry Griffith. No admission, but donations are appreciated to benefit the old school.

July 21 Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run

Hosted by Main Street Wetumpka, this event will feature some 15 Alabama breweries selected by John Stewart of the Coosa River Craft House from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Live music will play in two different locations all day. Downtown businesses will be highlighted, along with other local vendors focused on Alabama goods. Funds raised will help Main Street Wetumpka’s mission to revitalize downtown. Read page 22 for more information.

July 25 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.

July 27 Wags & Whiskers Auction The Humane Society of Elmore County will host its 13th annual auction at Wind Creek Entertainment Center, 100 River Oaks Dr. There will be fun, food and treasures for bidding during both live and silent auctions. All proceeds go to the humane shelter. Admission is $25 per person, and limited tables seating 10 are available for $300. Doors open and bidding starts at 6 p.m. For information, contact Chris Sission at 334-313-2155 or visit elmorehumane.auction.

Wags & Whiskers

This annual event gets bigger and better every year. Boat crews crisscross the lake to collect cards for the best poker hand while the party revs up at Kowaliga with music, food and fun. Prizes are awarded for the most original crew costumes as well. Start at The Ridge Marina at 8 a.m., and when your hand is complete, head to the party at Kowaliga Restaurant to see if you won.

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July 28 Compass Course

Aug. 18 Gator Tails

Come to 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook to learn about some compass basics at 11:30 a.m. with an Alabama Nature Center naturalist.

Groups will head outdoors and visit a compass course to test newly learned skills. This class is good for all ages, but recommended for children 6 and older.

Compasses and materials will be provided. Contact Matt Vines at 334-285-4550 for more information.

Join the Alabama Nature Center at 11:30 a.m. for a program about one of the swamp’s top predators. Visitors will meet ANC’s baby alligator, Delta, and kids will get to make a cool alligator craft. All materials will be provided.

ANC is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Contact Matt Vines at 334-285-4550 for information.

Sept. 2 Labor Day concert

Aug. 2 DAC on the Road: At the Birmingham Museum of Art This 45-minute program will feature a video and slideshow about the Dixie Art Colony and its participants.

Included in the presentation will be vintage photographs from the DAC Foundation archives and slides showing examples of the colonists’ work. This will be one of a series of 10 programs that will be part of the Birmingham Museum of Art’s 2018 Art & Conversation series. The program is open to the public, but registration is limited.

Single programs are $17 for non-members and $12 for BMA members. To register, call 205-328-7628 or visit the website at ArtsBMA.org.

Aug. 4 Annual AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo From 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., the Alabama Nature Center will host its annual youth fishing rodeo for children 15 years old and younger. Each child can catch and take home up to five catfish but can catch and release an unlimited number. Participants will receive free T-shirts and chances to win door prizes. Bring your own poles and a cooler to the catfish pond at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Contact Matt Vines at 334-285-4550 for more information and read more on page 16.

Aug. 15 DAC Lunch and Learn: Happy Birthday Kelly Fitzpatrick Join the Dixie Art Colony at 11:30 a.m. for a rare look at a 1950s scrapbook compiled by some of Fitzpatrick’s students at the Alabama Gulf Coast spin-off colony. The scrapbook includes sketch paintings by many of the artists that participated in the spin-off colony. The presentation will also include a slideshow about Fitzpatrick’s career. Of course, the dessert of the day will be a birthday cake honoring Fitzpatrick.

Gates open at 5 p.m. at the Lake Martin Amphitheater for the annual summer close-out concert.

Bring coolers, kids, friends, lawn chairs and blankets and turn out for one last great big party at the lake. Tickets are $20, and kids 6 and under are admitted for free. Music starts at 6:30 p.m. when The Bank Walkers take the stage.

Sister Hazel will headline the show at 8 p.m. Visit theamponlakemartin.com for tickets and artist information.

Season-Long Events

Alabama Wildlife Federation Creature Feature Every Monday and Wednesday, from 3:30 p.m. until 4 p.m., come learn about Alabama’s woods, water and wildlife. Get up close and personal with some of the creatures you may find in your own backyard and even some you may have never heard of. General admission applies and is $5 per person, with a $20 maximum per family. AWF is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook.

Visit alabamawildlife.org to check holiday closings.

Electronics Recycling On the first Saturday of each month, electronic items for recycling are accepted at the Wetumpka Recycling Center on East Charles Avenue. There is a $10 fee to recycle tube televisions; other electronics incur no charge.

Come from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other accepted electronics include computers, monitors, cell phones, chargers, modems, remotes, printers, batteries and more.

Blue Grass Jam, Sit and Scrap and Sit and Sew All three activities are held on the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon at the Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka. All acoustic instruments and skill levels are welcome at the Bluegrass Jam. Scrappers and paper crafters are encouraged to attend Sit and Scrap. All sewers and knitters are welcome at Sit and Sew. For details, call 334-578-9485 or visit www.arrac.org.

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Eclectic Trade Days The second Saturdays of August and September, the City of Ecelctic will host its inaugural trade days with local vendors from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 145 Main St., next to Town Hall. The event will continue again in March 2019.

For more information, contact Elizabeth Greer at 334-5413581 or Carmen Winslett at 334-201-0092.

Stories and Rhymes The Eclectic Public Library hosts a variety of activities, including stories, rhymes, dress-up, dance and music at 2 p.m. every Tuesday and 10:30 a.m. every Saturday.

These programs are free and enrich a child’s lifelong love of reading. Guests are welcome to visit the library’s gift shop and bookstore during hours of operation from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

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

Millbrook Farmers Market Every Tuesday morning through Aug. 15 local farmers will have fresh produce 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. The Village Green is located at the corner of Main Street and Grandview Road. For a full list of each week’s giveaways and activities, visit the Millbrook Farmers Market Facebook page. For information, contact Chuck Burns at 334-285-3558 or 334301-2650.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

Wetumpka City Pops Wetumpka City Pops Community Band rehearses on Thursdays from 7 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Wetumpka City Administration Building. Any woodwind, brass and percussion players are encouraged to participate.

River Region Women in Business This women’s networking group meets once a month to support, encourage and help other women succeed in business. Topics and speakers vary on tips, advice or support for professional and personal growth. The group meets the third Thursday of each month at the Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce, 116 E. Bridge St., from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. No cost to attend the first meeting, and then dues are $50 per year for chamber members and

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$100 for non-members. Contact Shea Irvine at 334-6518289 or sheainal@gmail.com for information or to RSVP.

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 more information, email StVincent620@gmail.com or visit stvincent-tallassee.org.

Cruise-In Car Show Pull into the Super Foods parking lot on Gilmer Avenue from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. the third Saturday of each month for a look at the spectacular wheels.

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.

Dixie Art Colony Foundation Exhibit Regular gallery hours are held from 10 a.m. until noon on Mondays and Wednesdays at 219 Hill St., Wetumpka.

Appointments and small group tours are available upon request. Special tours include a 16-minute video, Dixie Art Colony: A Look at Its Lasting Legacy. Exhibits rotate every four months, and a selection of periodicals and books from the DAC Foundation Resource Library also are on display.

ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

For information, contact Mark Harris at 334-328-0730 or at M.Harris@DixieArtColony.org.

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 at 408 S. Main St., Wetumpka. For more information or a list of upcoming programs, visit thekelly.org.

Center; Elmore county jail; Shaylee Place at Hwy. 231 and Titus Road; Old Central Transfer Station; Anne Building in Elmore; CEW&SA parking lot at Redland Road facility.

There is no longer a drop-off at the intersection of Redland, Firetower and Dozier roads.

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

Cost is $50 per person, and reservations are required.

Email jyoung@wetumpkachamber.org or call 334567-4811 for information and registration.

Yoga on the Green Start summer Saturdays from May 26 to Sept. 29 with relaxing yoga stretches on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m. Bring your mat and a bottle of water to this free event that will be led by experienced instructors.

Tuesdays with Kelly feature a variety of interesting speakers

Wine Tasting

Busy Bee Quilters Quilters meet the second Friday of the month at 9:30 a.m. at Santuck Community Center, 7300 Central Plank Rd. For information, call Sheila Puckett at 334-399-3249.

Master Gardeners Lunch and Learn 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. For information, call 334-567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

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 Equestrian

Visit Catherine’s Market at Russell Crossroads every Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for a $5 wine tasting. Purchase a bottle for 15 percent off from that night’s selections.

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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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!

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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 Allstate, Mark Shaw...................................................................................2 1 All That Space...........................................................................................4 3 City of Millbrook........................................................................................4 7 Community Hospital...................................................................................2 0 District Nineteen........................................................................................1 1 Gene Jones Insurance.................................................................................2 0 HR Management Solutions..........................................................................1 1 Jackson Thornton.......................................................................................4 5 Karen's Mane Tamers.................................................................................4 4 Kowaliga Whole Health.............................................................................4 4 Liveoak Agency.........................................................................................4 7 Mark's Service Center......................................................................................1 1 River Region Dermatology................................................................................4 4 Russell Lands on Lake Martin.............................................................................4 8 Singleton's Alignment.......................................................................................4 4 Tallassee Health & Rehabilitation, LLC...........................................................2 1 The Apothecary Pharmacy..........................................................................2 1 UAB Heart & Vascular................................................................................2 7 Wetumpka Depot Players............................................................................4 7 Wetumpka Flea Market...............................................................................2 1 Wind Creek Casino.....................................................................................3

ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

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

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Southern Classic Tomato sammie gone wrong

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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Ahhh … it is tomato season once again, and it’s the one thing that makes a scorching Alabama summer remotely bearable. With the return of heat and sunlight (tomatoes need both to grow), the red orbs of my dreams return as well. That’s some pretty poetry to basically say I want my tomatoes, and I want them now.

I have heard that the purest way to enjoy a sun-warmed, fresh-from-the-vine tomato is the tomato sandwich. The classic preparation includes slices of tomato, or one slice of a giant tomato, layered between two pieces of white bread that have been liberally slathered with mayonnaise. People talk about these tomato sammies all the time, announcing that they have had their first of the season. My Instagram feed is full of pictures of drippy ‘mater sandwiches. I have never had the pleasure of partaking.

We all know by now how I feel about mayonnaise. Mayo aside, I just don’t get the allure of a tomato sandwich. Why adulterate a perfectly delicious tomato with gummy bread and the white death? But the popularity of the tomato sandwich is intriguing. Knowing its cult status in the South, I figured some riff on the tomato sandwich might be just the ticket for a Southern Living recipe contest I planned to enter. Thus was born the Tomato Sandwich Casserole.

You may think that everything I cook is a winner. For the most part, yes. But not always on the first try. Developing a recipe means that you cook and tweak and cook and tweak. You have to write everything down because when you finally hit on the magic recipe combo, you have to be able to recreate it. And sometimes, no matter how many times you practice and tweak, you just can’t make it work, even if you are in love with the concept.

Odd how I don’t like tomato sandwiches, but I have hung on to the idea of tomato sandwich casserole long after it should have been abandoned.

During the cooking and tweaking phase, poor Sweetheart had endured many an epic cooking failure, yet was always game to try an experimental dish. Unfortunately, Sweetheart’s sister, who loves tomato sandwiches, was with us for the tomato sandwich casserole incident.

The casserole started out as a good idea. At least, I thought it was a good idea. I still kinda think it is a good idea. I had visions that this clever casserole version of every Southerner’s favorite snack would hit the contest jackpot. It was original. It captured a summer favorite. Except for the mayonnaise part, what’s not to love?

The vision was layers of white bread and tomatoes held together with an egg and mayo custard. To get that tomato sandwich feel, I doubled down on the mayo, coating each bread slice before layering with slices of beautiful tomatoes in the dish. I seasoned simply with salt and pepper, poured in the egg mix and baked away.

I brought the Tomato Sandwich Casserole to the table and dished it up to Sweetheart and her sister. I knew the minute I plopped out a portion of wet bread and limp baked tomato that the dish was doomed. I should have whisked it away and not tortured two people I love, but I couldn’t stop myself. Both tasted a tiny bite. I could tell by their faces that it was horrible. Both were too nice and too polite to say so. Years later, when I finally admitted that the casserole was awful, we all had a good laugh about it. They still tease me about it.

Now here is the thing, probably the thing that led to the dish’s demise: I never tasted it.

The whole thing was built in my mind based on flavors I had never tasted and would never taste.

I had not one idea about what made a tomato sandwich beloved by millions.

As a cook I should have known better than that, but I was blinded by my own hubris. And a cash prize.

ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

C O M E Kids’ Kingdom

P L AY Alabama Nature Center

W I T H

U S Grandview Family YMCA

Welcome to Millbrook, where the refreshing outdoors awaits!

w w w. c i t y o f m i l l b r o o k . o r g ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

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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 including 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.