From the Editor’s Desk
Small towns inspire big dreams, and this month our magazine team set out to uncover stories that celebrate the passion, purpose and local people behind them. With football season around the corner, Austin Elliott sat down with Benjamin Russell High School’s new head football coach, Kirk Johnson. Known for his dynamic leadership and winning reputation, Johnson takes the reins of a program stacked with all-star talent—including standout wide receiver Cederian Morgan. The heavily recruited senior recently committed to play for the Alabama Crimson Tide, chasing a dream that began on hometown Alexander City turf. As the Wildcats prepare for Friday night lights, they carry not only the hopes of a winning season, but the energy of a community rallying behind them. Catch the full story on page 26.
Dreams are also taking shape behind the camera. Los Angeles writer and director Leslie Hardy brought her vision for rural storytelling to Goodwater with her latest film, County of Coosa: Viola. With more than 35 years of film industry experience, Hardy cast local actors from Alexander City and surrounding areas to help bring the project to life. Her mission extends beyond the screen—she hopes to spotlight overlooked communities and help grow a sustainable film industry in Alabama. Read more about her vision and small-town film on page 20.
While some in our towns are dreaming of the big stage, one little boy was dreaming of the big city.
In New Site, the story of Hayes Hunter reminds us all of the power of hope. After battling a rare form of leukemia for more than a year, Hayes made a wish through Alabama-based organization Magic Moments—to travel to New York City with his family. That wish was granted in a heartwarming reveal at his half-birthday party. Many in the community have followed Hayes’s journey, donning orange in support of his fight. His story is a reminder that sometimes the biggest dreams come from the smallest voices. Follow his journey on page 38.
We’re also proud to celebrate one of our own. Shane Harris, a longtime contributor and local extension agent, is marking 25 years with Tallapoosa County Extension. His column, Garden Talk, has become a Lake Martin Living staple, offering expert tips and good-natured humor. This month, Shane shares some of his most memorable questions and conversations from over the years on page 31.
As you turn the pages ahead, we hope you’re reminded that small towns don’t just hold bold stories—they build the futures that shape what’s next.
LAKE MARTIN
Chairman
Kenneth Boone
General Manager
Tippy Hunter
Editor-in-Chief
Shaylee Beck Moore
Creative Services
Audra Spears
Business & Digital Development
Angela Mullins
Contributors
Kenneth Boone
Audra Spears
Austin Elliott
Lacey Howell
Shane Harris
George Miranda
Terry Mitchell
Gina Abernathy
Lizi Arbogast Gwin
Cliff Williams
Abigail Murphy
Samuel Higgs
Melody Rathel
Audience Development
Baily Terry
Marketing/Advertising
Renee Trice
Samantha Himes
Erin Vickers
Lillian Harris
Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999
Alexander City, AL 35011
256-234-4281
lakemartinmagazine.com
Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. For advertising call 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Subscriptions are $50 annually.
With Alabama-bound star Cederian Morgan, an explosive roster and new head coach Kirk Johnson calling the shots, Benjamin Russell is building a powerhouse and igniting excitement for Wildcat fans ahead of football season.
Photo by Kenneth Boone
14. THE SUN FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE
Go behind the scenes of Alexander City’s summer celebration with a firsthand look at pickleball and glow-in-the-dark golf.
20 FILMING IN THE HEART OF COOSA
Los Angeles director, Leslie Hardy, brings film to Goodwater in hopes of helping rural stories find the spotlight.
26. BUILT FOR GREATNESS
With a new coach and top-tier talent on the roster, Benjamin Russell is shaping a powerhouse ahead of Friday night lights.
38. FROM MAGIC MOMENTS TO MANHATTAN
After a courageous battle with cancer, Hayes Hunter's birthday surprise is a dream come true.
IN EVERY ISSUE
Film crews set the scene for production on County of Coosa: Viola, casting local actors to bring the small-town story to life.
AROUND THE AREA
Lake Martin Area United Way holds Day of Action
Lake Martin Area United Way wrapped up its first Day of Action for this year Friday afternoon.
Every year, United Way Worldwide hosts a service day in which United Way agencies work to benefit one aspect of their community, LMAUW executive director Courtney Layfield said. Locally, the LMAUW works with local schools to prepare for the upcoming school year.
“We’ve always worked with schools because we know they have needs that don’t quite get done during the year,” Layfield said. “It helps to take pressure off staff.”
Layfield said each year the LMAUW rotates schools throughout the county. Friday morning, volunteers worked at Dadeville High
School and Jim Pearson Elementary School.
“We do projects based on what the school needs,” Layfield said. “So, we talk to the principals and see what their wish list is, and based on the number of volunteers we have, we knock out as much as we can based on who we have and what we have.”
Layfield said Home Depot and Russell Do It Center donated supplies to make this year’s Day of Action possible.
The next LMAUW Day of Action will be at Central Coosa High School on July 18. To register to volunteer, visit unitedwaylakemartin.org/coosaday-action.
~ Melody Rathel
Finley Family Farm to nourish a legacy, feed a community
With 90 acres of farmland, Finley Family Farm was first established by Joanne Finley’s parents in 1957.
For Finley, farming goes back four generations, with her great grandfather and grandfather mostly farming cotton and peanuts. In Camp Hill, her father would peddle his crops to local grocery stores and farmers markets in Montgomery.
“It’s a legacy because farming is in us,” Finley said. “We were born into this and so we want to continue to do this.”
The marketplace is really a ministry to alleviate food insecurity. Finley retired from the military after 25 years and then became a deaconess for the United Methodist Church for 13 years. She did mission work throughout the southeast, including in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.
The Finley Farm is located at 1239 Finley Road. Regular updates can also be found on its Facebook page at Camp Hill Marketplace Farmers Market. For those interested in the EFNEP classes, individuals can come by the stand or call the Tallapoosa County Extension office at 256-825-1050.
~ Abigail Murphy
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Lake Martin's New Slice
STORY & PHOTOS BY AUSTIN ELLIOTT
At Lake Martin Pizza Company, Brett and Stacey Gelband are serving up hand-tossed pies and hometown connection in a way that’s quickly becoming the talk of the town. What began as weekend getaways to Lake Martin for the couple soon grew into a bigger dream – one that led to a full-time move and a bold step into the local food scene. Opening their first pizza location in Alexander City in 2023, the couple brought a vibrant atmosphere of live music, delicious food and familyfriendly fun to the area.
Now, the Gelbands have expanded their vision with their recent purchase of the original Dadeville location their signature hospitality and love for community to both sides of the lake.
Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Brett has always been immersed around quality cuisine. Stacey’s roots trace back to Cullman, Alabama called home for most of her life. The two met as college students in Las Vegas and quickly became inseparable, fittingly finding love in a city known for chance encounters.
Prior to moving to Lake Martin, the Gelbands lived in Atlanta for nearly ten years and had three sons together. Only a couple of hours away from lake serenity, they began visiting Lake Martin in 2015. The couple eventually got the bug to buy a boat, ultimately leading them to the lake oasis they fell
in love with.
“We were boat shopping for a while until we found the one we wanted,” said Brett. “We built relationships with many folks at Russell Marine through that process and ended up here at Lake Martin.”
Without much hesitation, the Gelbands decided to make
location on Highway 63 after seeing a need for more dining and entertainment options.
The restaurant industry was uncharted territory for the Gelbands, but they remained persistent in their goals.
Facing Page: The Dadeville location;
Right: The team focuses on creating a strong community; Pride goes into every pizza; A family-fun atmosphere.
“I was in a 30-year corporate America career for a national company, and Stacey’s entire adult life has mostly been as a career volunteer and homemaker, serving in the communities where we have lived,” said Brett. “We didn’t touch food service until a couple years ago.”
One of the initial elements the couple noticed was how uniquely different it was running a pizza shop around the lake community as opposed to their experience eating out in Atlanta. Both were very drawn to the strong sense of community and unity they experienced early on.
“Opening a restaurant around the Lake Martin area is a lot different than opening one in downtown Atlanta, Auburn or Opelika,” said Brett. “People are family around here, so you’ve got to create that environment and that setting where people want to be, people want to hang out.”
That is exactly what the pair did. Passionate and eager to serve, the Gelbands illustrated their creative ideas to be much more than just a pizza bar, but also an entertainment venue. From hosting live music and sports watch parties to group events, team parties and more, Lake Martin Pizza Company welcomed it all. The couple created a fun and welcoming destination where guests can relax with friends and family, enjoy New York-style pizza and toss a game of cornhole.
Another key element behind the couple’s business success is how actively involved the Gelbands have been in training their employees. Being a mother is something very close to Stacey’s heart and she has incorporated her love for teaching to her employees.
“Just teaching the next generation, handing them the torch, because they have great ideas, they are strong, they have passion about the things they love,” said Stacey. “They just have so much in them that they’re willing and ready to
In April 2025, just two years after opening in Alexander City, the couple purchased the Dadeville Lake Martin Pizza bringing fresh energy, familiar flavors and a whole lot of personality to the
The Dadeville location is now in the hands of one of the Gelbands’ most dedicated team members. Kellum Rowan, a Marietta, Georgia native and University of Georgia graduate, relocated to Lake Martin with his family after college.
Though he had lined up a job last summer in Highway 49
Atlanta, it didn’t feel like the right fit for Rowan. Drawn to the energy the Gelbands were bringing to Lake Martin Pizza Company, Rowan wanted to be a part of their growing vision.
“I called Brett and said, ‘Hey, mind if I come and work for you?’” said Rowan. “And we had a conversation about what they were looking to do to expand and grow.”
Rowan made the move to Lake Martin Pizza Company approximately two years ago and has continuously grown and developed under the Gelbands’ tutelage. Throughout Rowan’s tenure under Brett and Stacey, he began to gain ample experience and confidence in his ability to lead a restaurant. Recognizing his growth and leadership potential, the Gelbands named Rowan manager of the new Dadeville location.
Rowan has taken a hands-on approach, serving in nearly every role in the company.
“My first job was just tossing pizzas,” said Rowan. “On Friday nights, I’d toss 200 to 300 pizzas out and then it moved to work in the oven a little bit, to working in the front and just constantly climbing the ladder.”
With a rejuvenated focus on growth, Rowan is excited to establish Lake Martin Pizza Company as a goto entertainment experience in the Dadeville community. He plans to become invested in local clubs and events in any way possible, especially relating to Dadeville High School.
Rowan believes that the Lake Martin Pizza in Dadeville will flourish with the current approach.
“It’s the environment we create,” said Rowan. “People can come in, sit down and we talk to them, because we’re invested in their lives, and everybody feels like they’re invested in our little community as well.”
At Lake Martin Pizza Company, it’s not just the mouthwatering menu that keeps guests coming back – it’s the heart and the people behind it. From Alexander City to Dadeville, both spots are serving up flavor, fun and a big slice of hospitality.
For more information and to view the full Lake Martin Pizza menu, visit lakemartinpizza.com.
Renewing more than rivers.
The Renew Our Rivers program, originated by Alabama Power, has grown into one of the largest river cleanups in the nation. Over 104,000 volunteers have come together to remove 13.5 million pounds of trash from our Alabama waterways. We have shown up again and again to preserve the beauty and to create a community that is powering a better Alabama. We’ve been renewing more than rivers.
Scan to view volunteer opportunities.
The Sun Festival Experience
Behind the scenes of Alexander City's annual summer tradition
STORY BY AUSTIN ELLIOTT
PHOTOS BY ALICE ARMSTRONG & AUDRA SPEARS
If you grew up in a Southern small town, then a strong sense of pride in community is the furthest thing from being a foreign concept. In the Lake Martin area, one of the best summertime staples has become the annual Sun Festival, hosted by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. I had the privilege of personally putting boots on the ground for this year’s Sun Festival extravaganza and it did not disappoint.
From June 6 through 14, the Alexander City community came together for the Sun Festival, enjoying nine days of unique events and activities that were fun for all ages, from live music and movies to art and the SplashPlex water slide.
In addition, the event series included the famous Medallion Hunt, one of the most highly anticipated events of the Sun Festival. Hosted by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, each morning clues were added to the Sun Festival, Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and Alexander City Outlook Facebook pages, and broadcast on The Front Porch and Kowaliga Country 97.5. The result was an allout scavenger hunt to find amedallion hidden throughout town. From Monday through Sunday, the winner each day received a $200 cash prize.
Pars After Dark Facing Page: Local leadership helped coordinate the event; Top Left: Players enjoy the unique challenge of golf after dark; Top Right: Specialty golf balls light the way.
For my Sun Festival experience, I partnered with Lake Martin Sports Payton
Natali to try out two events that piqued our interest: the Sun Festival Hittin’ the Links Glow-in-the-Dark Golf Tournament and the Pickleball Tournament.
Taking a Swing at Glow-in-the-Dark Golf
As someone who grew up around the Lake Martin community, I have had the luxury of advanced selection when it comes to golf course venues. Going into the Glow-in-the-Dark Golf Tournament, I truthfully felt as if I was bound for a low score. Instead, what I gained was an incredible experience. It is no surprise this Sun Festival event has been a huge hit in recent years.
The Glow-in-the-Dark Golf tournament, hosted by Lakewinds Golf Course, is for every player. This tournament has been a part of the Sun Festival since 2013 and was designed to embrace the game and fellowship that follows suit. All players are required to pre-register with their teams, but that is the only requirement outside of bringing your clubs. The specialty golf balls used for the glow in the dark game were provided for each team, and they’ve seen slight upgrades over the last few years. One of the newer features of the “Glow V- One” golf ball is that its buoyancy resembles that of a traditional golf ball. This is popular with most players because Lakewinds allows for many “lay-up” opportunities on the greens.
Obviously, the darkness element makes the event so unique, but the golf balls weren’t the only distinction about the event. Players were instructed to have all their pre-match criteria handled many minutes before the
first tee to ensure order. This method worked flawlessly, even with the event being completely booked up by a maximum capacity of 60 players.
Lakewinds Golf Course in Jackson’s Gap, located off Highway 280, hosted the event and put a great deal of hospitality on full display. With assistance from president of the Alexander City Chamber President Steve Robinson and chamber member Jaden Tuck, Lakewinds’ staff executed a solid game plan. Also aiding the course staff with the tournament was Lake Martin Sports representative, Payton Natali. Natali has garnered much attention around all the extraordinary attractions in the sports realm around Lake Martin.
“It was great to be there,” said Natali. “I just like being involved; I helped just make sure everything went smooth and according to plan, and really just helped the chamber out with the sports tourism aspect. It brought people into the community and showcased the excellent local golf course we have with Lakewinds.”
Ultimately, Cal Jones and Mark Turner claimed victory of the tournament and took home a cash prize. Both are Dadeville natives and the pair collectively graduated in 2016 as standout athletes in the Tigers’ baseball program.
The Glow-in-the-Dark Golf Tournament has quickly become a standout event at Lakewinds. The public course is an ideal host, thanks to its forgiving nature – making the stakes attainable for any player willing to go the distance.
Spaced out over 5,153 yards, Lakewinds course is traditionally known for its classic design layout with easy fairways and challenging greens, a perfect setup for an entertaining round of golf. The course features three ponds that are each implemented into eight of the 18 holes throughout the landscape.
Payton and I left the tournament more eager than
we arrived. A pleasantly eye-opening experience, the tournament displayed the community’s longing for more similar events to take place. The sheer numbers alone of the participants was incredible to see and the tournament was a smooth success.
Pickleball Showdown
Payton and I also decided to take our talents to the pickleball courts for this year’s Sun Festival tournament. A total of six teams battled it out for the ultimate prize of bragging rights – and if you’ve played the sport, you’ll understand why. The chamber did a phenomenal job of coordinating the function courtesy of Kim Dunn and Steve Robinson along with the guidance of the Alex City Pickleball Club.
Since the day I could comprehend sports as a threeyear-old toddler, I have been in love with them. Virtually everybody in my household growing up was involved in athletics, so playing pickleball for the very first time ever admittedly wavered some confidence; however, it was the camaraderie and kinship with my partner and longtime friend that sold me on the sport.
“It was great participating in the pickleball tournament,” said Natali. “I really wish there were more teams out there, but it is a growing sport. We have pickleball courts marked off at Central Alabama Community College that are open to the public, and we’re looking forward to expanding pickleball in the area.”
In a Pickle Clockwise: CACC's courts made for an exceptional venue; The competition was fierce; Six teams competed; Facing Page: Players' names were drawn for door prizes.
One of the unique aspects about playing pickleball is the rulebook. The sport is designed
much like tennis in playstyle but hockey in format. The kitchen is a non-returnable area extended two feet from the net on each side of it. Boundaries help determine if a ball is out of play or dead and opposing teams are constantly rotating servers giving it a real sense of immersion.
Payton and I failed to put a dent in the leaderboard – in fact, we were officially pickled, also known as skunked. Most players there had ample prior pickleball experience and it showed. They were lights out. All the same, we had an amazing experience.
Alex City Pickleball Club is the local representation of the sport, and they are doing it well. Consisting of around ten members, the club is elevating talks around the sport in our local community. Longtime Alexander City community residents such as Ronna Blake and Deidra Horn are creating a buzz for a growing sport in the Lake Martin area.
Kim Dunn of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce coordinated the tournament along with Robinson. Dunn has had hands on the production of every Sun Festival since the inaugural event in 2013. Like many others, Dunn is adamant on growing the community around the lake as well as broadcasting the vibrant culture in Alexander City.
“We want to create that energy, that vibe around Alexander City and show a great fun place to live,” said Dunn. “There is a lot to do around here; you can have things to do and create a family or even if you’re young and you don’t have a family yet, there’s something for every age, and every demographic.”
The Alexander City Chamber also expressed gratitude to the sponsors, workers and participants, recognizing their continued support as the driving force behind the event’s success each year.
Overall, Sun Festival 2025 was a complete success in my book, even with a couple of unfortunate rainouts for mainstay events. I came away with a sense of urgency to remain involved in as many local clubs and events as possible due to the solidarity exhibited by every person involved. I challenge you to do the same; you just might make a hole-in-one.
Filming in the Heart of Coosa
STORY &
WBY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE
hen writer and director Leslie Hardy returned to Goodwater, Alabama, she wasn’t just coming home to a familiar childhood memory; she was answering a lifelong calling to bring Southern stories to the big screen and showcase the power of small-town communities.
During her 35 years in Los Angeles, California, Hardy was a member of the Screen Actors Guild and made a career for herself as an actress in commercials and episodic television. During this time, Hardy began writing, honing her craft and learning what it takes to work on a set – lessons she now applies to her newest film project in Goodwater.
And what she found throughout Alabama’s film community surprised her. The residents had the same energy, eagerness and tenacity she saw in Los Angeles, but with a can-do spirit that felt refreshingly different. The experience sparked Hardy’s vision to help build Alabama’s film scene, with hopes of turning the state into a destination for independent and major productions, similar to Atlanta, Georgia.
“It’s important to me, as a screenwriter and filmmaker, to bring filming of Southern stories to Alabama,” said Hardy. “There is power in the rural communities, and it could be a future revenue generator here with more support.”
Growing up in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia, Hardy spent her childhood visiting her grandparents in Goodwater, a place that left a lasting impression on her. She recently inherited their 1940s home and now lives there full time, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of her childhood.
Leslie Hardy often reflects on fond memories of growing up in the South, and she’s quickly settling into
PHOTOS
the rhythms of small-town life. In her commitment to supporting local businesses, she buys produce from a neighborhood stand – a simple act that brings back vivid memories of childhood.
“You know it’s summertime when the cantaloupes and tomatoes are out,” said Hardy. “Walking into the house and having the smell of cantaloupe, I’m eight years old again, and chasing lightning bugs in the yard with our neighborhood kids.”
While Hardy never lived in Goodwater until now, she always carried a love for the town and the memories it holds. That affection inspired her latest project, “Viola,” a short film inspired by her full-length script, County of Coosa. The film tells the story of a workaholic Washington D.C. lobbyist who returns to the small town where she spent childhood summers. The character comes back to oversee the sale of her grandparents’ house and finds herself drawn into the community’s struggle against poverty and resistance to change.
The story, like the town itself, is close to Hardy’s heart and inspired by moments from her own life.
“I’ve seen the decline of a little town like Goodwater, and they’re ubiquitous,” Hardy said. “There’s so many towns like Goodwater that have had better days, and can’t seem to quite get back on their feet. And that is a part of the story we’re telling. We don’t have any answers, but it’s just wondering why, and what happened?”
The film’s themes are deeply personal for Hardy, who has witnessed Goodwater’s evolution over decades of visits. Her lead character’s journey mirrors the bittersweet experience of reconnecting with a place that shaped one’s earliest joys, only to find it changed – and struggling.
Hardy’s work on County of Coosa: Viola is as much about community as it is about storytelling. She assembled a crew largely from Alabama, drawing on local talent to bring the film to life. Atlanta-based actress Cherrie McRae plays the lead role, while Birmingham’s Kristin Dober serves as producer.
Hardy also collaborated with ACT II, the community theater in Alexander City. The group opened its doors for auditions, table reads and wardrobe sessions. Denise Graves, ACT II board member, stepped in as the film’s production designer.
“ACT II has provided invaluable support,” Hardy said. “Otherwise, we’d be holding auditions at an outdoor cafe someplace.”
In a uniquely local touch, Hardy cast Alexander City residents in many of the film’s supporting roles, bringing hometown talent to the screen and adding authenticity to the story. Two Goodwater residents – Billy Ray Gunn and Mary Simmons – also play key parts. Gunn inspired a character after Hardy spotted him working in a neighbor’s yard, while
Lights, Camera, Action Above: Hardy returned to Alabama after launching a successful film career in Los Angeles; Below: The movie set featured a home in Goodwater.
Casting a Light on Small Towns
Clockwise: Cherrie McRae stars in the film; Hardy's vision is to tell the stories of rural Southern towns; Local actors were cast in supporting roles; The film included two days of filming in Goodwater; Facing Page: Hardy hopes to inspire growth in Alabama’s film industry.
Simmons appears in flashbacks as the grandmother, a memory of the town’s past.
“Their essence is so much the heart of this film,” Hardy said.
Local businesses were essential in helping bring the film to life. Ed’s Café, owned by Donna and Ed Calhoun, provided catering during production, and Hardy made it a priority to work with nearby vendors – part of her mission to show how filmmaking can support small-town economies.
“One of our actors heard someone say, ‘You’re filming in Goodwater? Have you seen how Goodwater looks?’” Hardy said. “That attitude is pervasive, and it’s one of my driving engines. It’s very easy to sit on the sidelines and comment about the good old days, but very few are willing to help. Very few people are willing to do anything.”
Hardy was selected to participate in the Stowe Story
Narrative Lab last summer with the full length version of County of Coosa. This writing workshop was held in conjunction with the Sidewalk Film Festival in Birmingham. Hardy was the only Alabama writer in the program, which drew participants from across the country and beyond. The experience helped solidify her vision for the film, inspired her to write and produce several shorts from this story and connected her with key collaborators.
“It was worth every dollar that I spent for the camaraderie, the support of this story and the short film we’ve just completed with another one in the works,” said Hardy.
Funding from entertainment lawyer Stacy Davis, who supports female screenwriters over 40, also helped Hardy attend the lab and advance the project.
Filming took place in May, with the project now in post-
production, and Hardy hoping to enter County of Coosa: Viola into film festivals; however, the broader goal is to help establish Alabama as a place where film and the arts can thrive. Like neighboring Georgia, Hardy believes Alabama has the potential to attract more filmmakers, create jobs and boost local economies – if communities and leaders are willing to support the industry.
“It’s really about focusing on telling Alabama stories,” Hardy said. “And bringing more film work here, and using all of the resources that we have here. This could really be a bigger source of revenue for Alabama.”
For Hardy, County of Coosa is more than a creative project. It’s a tribute to the small towns and people who helped shape her, and a reflection of the local support that makes independent filmmaking possible.
BUILT FOR GREATNESS
Johnson to compose a masterpiece: Cats' electric roster set for a date with destiny
STORY BY AUSTIN ELLIOTT
PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & SAMUEL HIGGS
Ever since the days of the gladiators competing in the Coliseum, sport has bonded human beings together. Sports demand unity, pride and an unwavering commitment to success. This is what Kirk Johnson is bringing to the table as the new Benjamin Russell High School football coach. Entering his thirteenth year on the sidelines and fifth as a headman, Johnson looks to take flight in his debut season at BRHS. The stakes are high, but the rewards are even higher.
Established in 1950, Benjamin Russell High School has been at the heart of a very endearing community in Alexander City. As the stereotype goes, promoting athletics in small Southern towns is much like in the movies. There is a fire burning underneath the surface in Alexander City and it ignites when the Wildcats are winning.
The Wildcat’s football program carries a proud history stemming from a 680-379 record which includes the illustrious and heavily sought blue map. The blue map is in reference to the state championship trophy gifted to the winner every year courtesy of the Alabama High School Athletic Association. BRHS accomplished the glorious feat in 2001 under the Hall of Famer Willie Carl Martin. As a local man who grew up in the community loving sports more than anything, BRHS football might as well be the Dallas Cowboys.
Enter Kirk Johnson to the mix. Johnson arrived on campus this past offseason as the hottest topic in Alabama high school football leaving his former school Montgomery Catholic with a 55-2 record. He also won two consecutive state titles in the past two years. The Columbiana native believes his incredible success at such an early age has come from his experience growing up in sports. At Shelby County High School, Johnson played baseball and football, creating some of the closest bonds still near and dear to him today.
Road to Glory Facing Page: Johnson has the Wildcats poised for success.
“Growing up, all of my male role models that were huge in my life were coaches, and I valued the things they had,” said
Johnson. “I’ve never wanted to do anything else, and my story is I didn’t want to be a car salesman or a doctor when I was little, I dressed up as Russell Croom from Mississippi State for Halloween.”
At just 22 years of age, Johnson burst onto the coaching scene with his first job at Lanier High School. Johnson spent time learning under a mentor of his, Deangejo Wheeler, at Lanier before picking up a headset at Sylacauga High School. Johnson then attended Auburn University in pursuit of a master’s degree in secondary education. It was during his time at Auburn that Johnson also met his wife.
Johnson’s distinguished method of being a leader is derived from his upbringing as an athlete and young coach. However, an element that has always been instilled within Johnson’s DNA is a competitive fire.
“I put a lot of pressure on myself. If you ask anybody that knows Kirk Johnson, they’d say he’s the most competitive person you ever met in your life,” said Johnson. “I pay attention to all things, and I don’t comment on anything, but I read it, and I apply that pressure to myself, because I have self-motivation.”
That format will look to help Johnson thrive in his new role as the head man for the Wildcats. The Wildcats flaunt an embarrassment of riches on their roster for this upcoming season. If there ever was a time to be completely bullish about great expectations in Alexander City, it is now.
Kingston Preyer will be the shot caller in the backfield playing quarterback for the Wildcats. Preyer possesses an athletic frame standing at 6-foot-3 with extensive length and impressive arm talent. The young signal caller is only entering his sophomore year of high school. The Wildcats’ new QB1 does not expect his youth to interfere with execution as Preyer believes strongly he was built for the moment.
“Stay neutral and have fun – just enjoying the moment, seizing the moment, because this is like a once in a lifetime opportunity where I get to go play football with a rising, top program in the state, I just love it,” said Preyer.
Inside the Playbook
Top to Bottom: Preyer has the keys to the offense; Calhoun is the leader on the defense; Bedgood creates separation off the ball. Facing Page: Johnson is excited for his new role; Spivey is a top-ranked pass rusher; The Wildcats carry a strong special teams unit.
One of the weapons at Preyer’s disposal will be senior receiver B.J. Bedgood. Bedgood will put on the maroon and white jersey having already established himself around the country as a playmaking threat. Bedgood has a unique style of play never slowing his own tempo, much like that of James Bond. Bedgood had an electric debut outing during the Wildcats’
spring game last May as the superstar has fully embraced the Benjamin Russell fan base.
“The people here are incredibly nice and passionate,” said Bedgood. “Everybody really comes together for the football team, and I love it. I’m proud to be playing for Benjamin Russell.”
Coach Johnson exemplifies leadership through example. Nobody has illustrated this more than Alijah Johnson. Alijah has been a Wildcat his entire life , having served as the Cats’ starting quarterback last year in a season that ended in Spanish Fort during the first round of the playoffs. Coach Johnson has since been immensely impressed with Alijah’s willingness and impactful transition to safety on the other side of the ball this year. Alijah is embracing his new role , doing whatever it takes for the ultimate success of the squad.
“I really love it, and I still love playing offense too, so I am going to play both this season,” said Alijah. “That’s what I love about being an athlete.”
Talk of the Town
megastar for the Wildcats and has just recently concluded a recruiting process with just about every college football coach in America wanting a piece of the pie.
“I love all the things about football,” said Morgan. “It’s just right, it’s a people’s sport, and a lot of people around here know the game of football, so going out there and being able to do what I can for the fans, that’s exciting for me.”
Coming from a great family and mentorship, the Wildcats’ catalyst has managed to maintain a humble and level demeanor throughout the whole thing.
“Being from here and growing up in Alexander City, playing city league in elementary school, and just knowing that my city has my back, no matter where I go, that’s just a blessing,” said Morgan.
Morgan elected to take his talents to the University of Alabama. Following an accelerated graduation in December, Morgan will be in Tuscaloosa in the spring of 2026.
Before he buckles his chinstrap for the Crimson Tide, Morgan has a couple of boxes he wants to check off his list as a prep player first.
Facing Page: Morgan poses a threat in multiple ways as a receiver; Above: Cecily Lauderdale celebrates with her son as he commits to the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Every movie has a climax, every car has a max speed and every dinner table has a centerpiece in the middle of the madness. The Wildcats’ centerpiece could quite possibly be the best player in all the land: Cederian Morgan. Morgan is a coach’s dream filling out a 6-foot-5 frame with acrobatic levels of athleticism. Morgan is a three-sport
“I’m looking at being an All-American – the number one thing is the state championship, that’s our expectation and we expect nothing less.”
Yes, sports are amazing. Sports provide so much and create movies, memories and moments. The Benjamin Russell High School football team is on the verge of a monumental moment in time. So, grab your popcorn because this fall is sure to be a spectacle.
25 Years of Gardening Questions
As I complete and celebrate a milestone – my 25th year with Tallapoosa County Extension – I look back and reflect on all the gardening-related questions I have been asked and answered. I was hired in July 2000 to serve as the local horticulturist to provide home horticulture education and university research-based information. Over these years, my title and responsibilities have changed somewhat, but as an Extension agent, my basic duties remain as a teacher, communicator, writer, problem solver and student. I hope I have earned credibility as a local and trustworthy source for lawn and garden-related information.
Over the years, gardening questions and issues vary greatly but predictably repeat and are often very seasonal. The types of phone calls, interests, problems and educational workshops have evolved over time. In the early days, some of the hot topics were:
Concerns about Japanese beetles eating almost everything in the garden and landscape and how to kill them, including the use of Sevin dust and hanging Bag-a-Bug traps. Pest numbers today are not as bad as in the past.
Armadillos were spreading across Alabama, and folks were trying all sorts of tricks, including milky spore disease and burying homemade 12-inch pipe traps to manage their nuisance digging and rooting in home lawns.
Our Master Gardener program was growing rapidly in popularity in Tallapoosa County and across the state. Hosting the annual 12week course and teaching many classes all over East-Central Alabama has always been a career favorite. Meeting and working with so many great people who shared the same passion for gardening will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Over the last 25 years, there has been a pendulum shift in horticulture interests.
In the 2000s, there was much interest in home orchards and vegetable gardens. Extension held many area Home Grown Workshops in 2009 and 2010 to address the demand for local produce and home gardens. Surprisingly, many of the participants then were retirees who had moved back to the family farm and needed a refresher course on the basics.
Home landscape plants and settings have always been a steady source of phone calls due to problems. Residents of urban areas, subdivision communities and Lake Martin properties love their home lawns and shade trees. Fungal lawn diseases, dying trees, weed control, animal control and weather-related events like drought and cold damage generate many calls looking for solutions.
Hands-On Gardening
Facing Page: ACES specializes in hosting educational classes for the general public.
How and when to prune landscape ornamentals and fruit trees were the most popular calls each winter. My fellow agents and I hosted numerous annual pruning demonstration workshops, including many at the late John Neighbors’ orchard and farm.
Folks having home vegetable gardens have fluctuated up and down over the years. Trends began to move away from traditional large gardens and shifted more to smallerscale gardens with a few raised beds and containers. Addressing ugly tomato problems each year, however, remains one of the top phone calls of concern even today. The backyard tomato workshops we hosted were
always well-attended, with gardeners looking for advice on how to grow the perfect tomato.
There have indeed been some unusual calls, visits and memorable moments:
One of note was an early career and odd phone call about termites eating the turnip greens in a home garden. What?
A visit and inspection of the home vegetable garden proved it was true and revealed dry soil and fresh wood mulch attracting termites. They were boring holes in the turnip greens looking for moisture.
There was a memorable phone call from a person who asked me what could be done to stop the summer cicadas and katydids from singing in the trees throughout the neighborhood. The loud noise was bothering her. I may have said to move.
GARDEN TALK
Shane Harris
Someone once asked what was happening to all the forest trees. I asked what was going on. The person stated the leaves are turning brown and falling off. I said it is because they are deciduous and that is what happens in autumn. The person was from Florida.
The most spectacular and once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomenon was the emergence of above-ground giant yellow jacket nests across Alabama in 2009. Some will remember the news story and photo of yellow jackets building a huge paper nest in the back seat of an old car in Tallassee. I was able to get close and see thousands of yellow jackets in person in the car as well as in other odd locations in Autauga, Chilton and Coosa counties.
A career highlight was witnessing the emergence of the 13-year periodical cicadas in Tallapoosa County in 2011 and again just last year (2024). I was ready for them last year and actually had them crawling and singing all over my home landscape. Those were ugly little boogers but still fascinating. (See the May 2024 issue of Lake Martin Living.)
The pinnacle educational events sharing horticulture information were when the Tallapoosa County Master Gardeners and I hosted three Fall Gardening Extravaganzas in 2014, 2015 and 2017. With over 300 people in attendance each year, it remains the biggest horticulture event and lineup of speakers we ever hosted.
Educating the general public has indeed had its challenges. People often seek gardening advice but choose not to follow proven horticultural science and professional recommendations. Many behaviors have indeed left me with real-life shaking my head in disappointment, disbelief, frustration and disapproval: My biggest pet peeve is the annual butchering of beautiful crape myrtles year after year. “Crape murder” continues to be an eyesore in home and commercial landscapes despite being a loud voice of reason. It truly is a scam and unnecessary practice that results in nothing but negative outcomes – ugly and scarred plants.
Unusual Sightings
I am always amazed at the high expenses homeowners invest in the establishment of a new lawn and new landscape plants but will not spend $10 on a soil test or seek quality advice prior. Getting the fertility correct, especially applying lime at the very beginning, will ensure much better establishment and long-term success. Despite all the TV
Left: A massive yet impressive yellow jacket nest in 2009; Right: Unsightly tomatoes always spark phone calls.
commercials and store product displays, Extension specialists do not recommend weed-and-feed products on our southern lawns. The timing is the main issue, as our grasses are dormant in the winter and do not need fertilizer. The window to apply herbicides for weed control typically does not match when fertilizers are to be applied in the spring. Customers are surprised when I tell them that.
Sources for accurate educational information will continue to evolve. Whether it is from traditional newspaper and magazine articles, radio or TV, inperson workshops and classes or online videos, be sure it is a reputable source. Alabama Extension Cooperative Extension has been in the business of helping people for over 100 years. If you have a question, we will likely have an answer. For advice or help on lawn, garden, orchard, bug, wildlife, tree or shrub issues, just give yours truly a call at 256-825-1050. For more information, contact your local county Extension office or visit us online at aces.edu
~ Shane Harris is the county extension director and local horticulturist serving all residents of Tallapoosa County for 25 years.
180 Birmingham Rd
Eclectic, AL 36024
334-857-2443
sales@lakescape.com
Staying Informed Above: Media partners provide Harris an informative outlet; Below: Drought damage to plants is a popular topic.
Martin homeowners seeking to enhance their lakefront from the front door to the waterline with docks, decks, boathouses, hard and soft scapes, irrigation, lighting and other features or to renovate or service existing ones.
Docks & Seawalls
Decks & Patios
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Repairs & Maintenance
Ramen Noodle Coleslaw
Mid-summer means long days, hot grills and the need for something cool and crunchy. This easy Ramen Noodle Coleslaw hits the spot every time.
During the hot months, everyone’s craving something light, cool and refreshing. This coleslaw is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a crunch that holds up beautifully. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a flavor-packed side dish your guests will love.
I’ve been making this Ramen Noodle Coleslaw for more summers than I can count, and it’s still one of my most requested sides. My family loves it, especially when we’re serving burgers, ribs or grilled chicken. It adds the
perfect contrast to any summer plate.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, pool party or family dinner, this dish offers a nice break from the heavy sides and adds just the right amount of contrast to all that grilled goodness.
The next time you’re thinking about serving coleslaw, take it to a whole new level and serve this recipe instead. This is one summer side that’s crunchy, refreshing, satisfying and will disappear fast. What more could you ask for? Make some today.
~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.
Abernathy
Gina
INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/3 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup sugar
1 package of ramen noodles, chicken flavor
1 ramen noodles seasoning pack, chicken flavor
1 bag (14 to 16 ounces) classic coleslaw mix
4 to 5 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds
1/2 cup sliced almonds
DIRECTIONS
Break up ramen noodles into small pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of oil. Add dry ramen noodles and almonds and cook until slightly toasted. Remove from heat and cool completely. Set aside. In a small bowl or Mason jar, whisk together 1/2 cup oil, vinegar, sugar and the seasoning packet from the ramen noodles. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mixture and chopped green onions. Mix well. When ready to serve, add sunflower seeds, almonds and noodles to the slaw mix. Toss with the dressing mix. Serve immediately.
Note: If making ahead, see the recipe tips below.
RECIPE TIPS
• Toast: Toast the almonds and noodles to deepen the flavors. This is optional.
• Make-ahead dressing: Mix the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Keep the coleslaw mix and dressing separate.
• Wait to combine: Wait to add the dressing, nuts, and noodles until an hour before serving to retain the crunch.
• Transport: Place the dressing, coleslaw mixture, nuts, and noodles in separate containers. Place everything in a cooler and assemble the salad upon arrival at the event.
• Adjust to taste: Pour in as much or as little dressing as you’d like – start with half and add more to reach your desired level. You can also reserve some on the side so guests can drizzle extra just before serving.
From Magic Moments to Manhattan
Hayes Hunter is granted the wish of a lifetime
STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE
PHOTOS BY KAREN KISON & SHEENA HUNTER
After months of fighting for his life, 11-year-old Hayes Hunter is finally preparing for the trip of his dreams to New York City. The small-town boy from New Site, Alabama, has captured hearts across the community with his bravery and determination as he continues his aggressive battle with leukemia. Thanks to Magic Moments and the kindness of neighbors, friends and strangers, Hayes and his family are filled with hope as they look ahead to the adventure of a lifetime.
Hayes is a spirited young boy who loves playing Xbox and cheering on his favorite college basketball team, the Auburn Tigers. Before his diagnosis, he could be found running on the soccer field, playing in Alexander City’s youth league and embracing every moment of the game.
He also shares a close bond with his older siblings –Harrison, 19, a sophomore at Auburn University, and Harper, 16, a rising junior at Horseshoe Bend High School – who have stood by him through every step of his journey.
In June 2024, life changed suddenly for Hayes and his family. What seemed like an ordinary summer cold turned out to be the beginning of a harrowing medical journey.
Last summer, Hayes had begun to develop congestion, a cough and later a fever, prompting his parents, Sheena and Scott Hunter, to seek medical care locally; however, initial tests were inconclusive. When Hayes’ symptoms worsened, they turned to Russell Medical for answers.
Bloodwork revealed Hayes had a white blood cell count of 247,000 – far above the healthy range of 4,000 to 10,000.
“I knew that at that moment that we were looking at something pretty significant going on,” said Sheena, a nurse practitioner. “The Alex City Fire Department ambulance service transferred us from Russell Medical to the emergency room at Children’s Hospital, and within an hour, we had a diagnosis of leukemia.”
Hayes was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, a rare and aggressive adult form of leukemia that is unusual in children. For the first 48 hours, Hayes was in critical condition.
“We were looking at something that we knew was very aggressive,” said Sheena. “We found out that Hayes had a high risk genetic mutation, which required a bone marrow transplant.”
The family united behind Hayes, with both Harrison and Harper undergoing testing to see if they could serve as donors. In a remarkable stroke of luck, Harrison turned out to be a perfect match.
In September 2024, doctors harvested Harrison’s bone marrow and transplanted it into Hayes just hours later. Harper continued to provide endless comfort and care to her younger brother.
“It was just one of those moments where you knew that God has gone before us, and that his hand is in all of this,” said Sheena. “We knew at that moment that we were going to be okay.”
As Hayes recovered from his transplant and chemotherapy – achieving remission after his first round of treatment – he was offered a chance to submit a wish through Magic Moments.
Magic Moments is an Alabama-based organization that grants wishes to children facing life-altering medical conditions. Unlike Make-A-Wish, which serves terminally ill children nationwide, Magic Moments focuses solely on children in Alabama’s 63 counties. In addition, children do not have to be terminally ill to qualify, but must have a diagnosis that has significantly changed their lives.
The organization, co-founded by Alexander City native
Above: After months of battling cancer, Hayes learned his dream trip to New York City was finally coming true.
Buffy Cox, ensures that all donations stay in Alabama to support children across the state.
“It’s like being a fairy godmother,” said Karen Kison, who has served as Magic Moments camp director for 26 years.
Kison, who has known the Hunter family through community sports, encouraged Sheena to have Hayes apply. Hayes listed three dream destinations: Boston to see historic sites and lighthouses, California to explore the forests and, topping the list, New York City.
Soon after his application was submitted, his wish was granted.
“I was so excited for their family,” said Kison. “Everyone needs a little joy and laughter – something to make them smile. That’s what Magic Moments is all about: bringing happiness to these kids and reminding them there’s light at the end of the tunnel.”
Big Birthday Surprise
With careful planning to accommodate Harrison’s college break and Harper’s school schedule, the family scheduled their trip for Thanksgiving. To surprise Hayes, Sheena and Scott hosted a half-birthday party at their home in June, inviting friends and family for the big reveal.
“His birthday is actually December 30, so right there at Christmas,” said Sheena. “When he was sick, he didn’t really have a birthday party. So, we came up with the idea to have a half-birthday party for him at the pool with his friends, because they missed him during the school year.”
Kison’s staff, which was a group of lifeguards that work with Harper, created a handmade banner for the reveal. In addition, Magic Moments gifted Hayes a T-shirt and some of his favorite foods. Kison was present at the party and revealed the big news as everyone cheered and clapped for Hayes.
“He’s really excited,” said Sheena. “He is the most excited about going on a dinner cruise to see the Statue of Liberty, and of course Times Square and the memorial at the World Trade Center.”
Moments like this, filled with hope and inspiration, wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of the community. Since his diagnosis, neighbors, friends and local churches have rallied around the Hunter family. Groups throughout the area have worn
Fighting With Courage Clockwise: Hayes receives endless support from his family; He received a bone marrow transplant to battle a rare form of leukemia; Hayes is a spirited 11-year-old.
orange, the color representing leukemia awareness, as a visible sign of solidarity. Others have provided meals, financial assistance and prayers, helping the family through months of treatment and recovery in Birmingham while Sheena stepped away from work to care for Hayes.
“We are very thankful for all the surrounding communities and their endless support,” said Sheena. “There are so many things that happened over the past year that we couldn’t have done without this community. With all the bad things that happen in the world, they’ve been a reminder that there are still really good people in this world.”
As the holiday season approaches, the Hunters look forward to making cherished memories in New York. Hayes remains optimistic about the future, and the family is hopeful he’ll return to school this fall as a sixth grader. “When you’re faced with trials and hardships in life, just never give up,” said Sheena. “You just have to always stay positive, and always keep the faith and believe that there’s always a positive thing that’s going to happen. That God is going to carry you through.”
Hope in the Storm
Faith, friendship and the fight against cancer: Joe’s story
Imet Joe in the fall of 1982. I had moved to Atlanta to attend seminary and was a bit homesick for Tuscaloosa.
Joe was a year ahead of me and was cool, in a Matthew McConaughey, redneck sort of way. Joe grew up in Panama City and played college baseball. In fact, that’s how he lost his two front teeth.
He was behind the plate when the other team’s cleanup batter stepped into the batter’s box. Joe asked him if he had any nekkid pictures of his girlfriend, to which the batter said, “Of course not.”
“Do you want to buy some from me?” Joe asked.
needs, during which Joe unknowingly stood in a fire ant bed. I drove his Monte Carlo while he took off his shoes and batted fire ants off his shins when the car suddenly started making a strange pinging sound.
The wrecker showed up about an hour later and towed us the rest of the way to Birmingham. We rode shotgun with the driver, a Styrofoam cooler full of football essentials on the floorboard. I asked the tow truck driver how he protects himself when he picks up gregarious young men in the middle of the night, and he introduced my left nostril to his snub-nose .38.
We became fast friends on an ill-fated trip to the 1982 Bama vs. Penn State game at Legion Field. Bama won, 4221, about the only good thing that happened that weekend. Driving to Birmingham after Friday classes, we pulled onto an exit ramp off Interstate 20 to take care of some biological
We checked into the Holiday Inn, then went to the hotel lounge to listen to the country band. Two drunk guys got into a fight over a girl, and chairs started flying through the room. We barely escaped with our lives as a full-blown brawl erupted.
Our friendship continued through the decades with a few more exciting episodes, but otherwise pretty run-of-the-mill. Until this year.
This year, Joe called me to tell me he has cancer. Now we talk every week. Joe has a good attitude and a strong spirit. He always has, and even more so now that he’s facing this challenge. I told him so. Joe responded, “I have a new creed.” He asked me to open a Bible and read the first paragraph of Romans 5 aloud.
I read, “Suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us.”
Hope does not disappoint. In addition to chemotherapy and radiation, Joe leans on his faith. He is very intentional about keeping a positive attitude, and he has a robust prayer life. Research supports the benefits of spirituality and hope when facing a chronic illness.
Herbert Benson at Harvard conducted the first modern studies on the mind-body connection to health and illness in the 1970s. Other medical schools took up the mantle of this research.
To be transparent, these studies have had mixed results. Duke University Medical School conducted a study of cardiovascular patients in the ICU, with one group of patients prayed for and a control group that was not prayed for. The patients who were prayed for tended to improve enough to leave the ICU several days ahead of the group that wasn’t prayed for. The Mayo Clinic repeated this experiment but, unfortunately, did not achieve the same positive results.
What the studies do show, however, is that people who are involved in a faith community and people who have a strong spiritual orientation tend to cope better with the stress caused by their chronic illness. These folks tend to be more positive and hopeful, with less depression and anxiety.
Even more intriguing is the handful of studies that suggest that cancer survivors who have a strong spiritual grounding may have increased survival compared to those who do not have a positive or hopeful outlook. The key to this increased survival is stress reduction.
Forty-six randomized controlled studies of cancer patients found that patients who practiced stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness and meditation, and patients with higher spiritual well-being experienced a reduction in levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
Acute stress is a physiological response to an immediate threat – like when you’re in a motor vehicle accident or when you get called to the boss’s office at 4:30 p.m. on Friday. Your “lizard brain” (the hypothalamus) doesn’t know the difference between a car accident and a saber-tooth tiger attack. It just knows you’re in trouble, so it triggers the “fight-or-flight” response. Your brain tells your adrenal glands to release a surge of adrenaline, which increases your heartbeat and blood flow, muscle tension and mental acuity.
Your adrenal glands also secrete cortisol, which slows down nonessential functions, like digestion, and pushes glucose to your muscles. Now you’re ready to fight the sabertooth tiger or, if you’re smart, run away.
The hormone response to acute stress is healthy and good. It can keep you alive. But chronic stress is a different animal. Chronic stress is a threatening situation that just won’t
go away. Situations like a job you hate, a bad marriage or financial hardship are sources of chronic stress.
Chronic stress generates persistently high levels of stress hormones in your body. While these hormones are helpful in acute stress situations, they become very harmful if you have no relief from exposure to them. Chronic cortisol release can cause depression of one’s immune function, dampening the release of immune molecules called cytokines and suppressing the immune activity of B cells and T cells.
Decreased immunity makes a person susceptible to infections, as well as the reactivation of viruses like shingles that one’s immune system normally keeps in check. In the case of cancer, we know that a strong immune system can often prevent initial tumor genesis.
MEDICAL NEWS
George Miranda
The other adverse effect of chronic stress is inflammation.
Acute inflammation (when you cut your finger or twist your ankle), like acute stress response, is a healthy process. The redness and swelling you experience are caused by an army of immune cells rushing to the injury to destroy pathogens, repair tissue and remove debris.
Chronic inflammation further inhibits your immune system and damages healthy tissues, leading to autoimmune diseases like arthritis and ulcerative colitis and cardiovascular disease, as well as increased anxiety, depression and pain. While the evidence is thin, chronic inflammation possibly creates an environment where cancer can flourish.
Anything we can do to reduce stress in our lives can strengthen our immune system and arguably reduce our risk of the incidence or progression of several diseases. And while we cannot definitively prove that stress reduction can prevent or cure disease, there certainly is no harm in doing everything we can to help the doctor and the drugs defeat what ails us.
Here are some things you can do to reduce the effects of chronic stress on your mind and body:
• Eat right, exercise and get eight hours of sleep each night.
• Practice relaxation techniques: yoga, tai chi, mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing and massage.
• Do whatever helps you unwind: go fishing, read a book, visit a comedy club or see a movie.
• Cultivate meaningful relationships – friends and family.
• Don’t hold it in. Find someone to talk to. A professional counselor is probably the best practice.
• Join a faith community. And don’t just join; get involved.
• Spend time with your higher power (i.e., pray).
I don’t know if my friend Joe will beat his cancer. But if anyone can, Joe can. Because he has hope, because he prays, and because he puts his trust in God, Joe will at least live more fully, and, heck, he might even live longer.
~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine –Russell Medical Cancer Center.
Don't get caught by phishing scams
Have you ever received an urgent text asking for personal information? If so, you’re not alone. In 2024, Alabama residents reported over 7,800 cyber-enabled crime and fraud incidents, resulting in more than $100 million in losses, according to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. Financial fraud is a real threat, and Alabama residents must be prepared to protect their finances.
One of the most common methods used is phishing – a tactic where cybercriminals pose as trusted sources like banks, charities or government agencies to deceive individuals into sharing sensitive information like passwords, account numbers or Social Security details.
MONEY MATTERS
Terry Mitchell
Phishing attempts appear in many forms, such as charitable donations, weightloss offers or car warranty renewals. Many individuals have recently been targeted with false outstanding toll notifications, where they are asked to provide payment information. Use these five tips to help protect your accounts.
1. Avoid suspicious emails
Cybercriminals will often tell you there is something wrong with your account and it must be addressed urgently in email subject lines.
To tell if the email is legitimate, first double-check the email address – fake emails often have a long string of numbers or misspelled names. If you’re unsure, call the sender directly to confirm the request.
2. Set up bank notifications
Many banks offer real-time alerts to notify you when there is a suspicious charge or activity taking place. Banking technology is familiar with individuals’ spending patterns and can flag a concern before your finances are affected. Take advantage of these services or settings and ensure your contact information is updated.
Being alerted immediately can help you respond quickly and regain control of your accounts.
3. Hover – don’t click
Clicking a suspicious link just one time can immediately activate a malware virus on your device. Always hover over a picture or hyperlinked text to view the link destination to determine if it’s safe. If the link does not match the sending organization’s URL, it’s most likely a scam.
4. Protect your confidential information
Even if an email, text or phone call seems to be from a trustworthy source, never share confidential information through these channels – most organizations will not ask for this information over the phone, text or email. It’s best to visit a business in person if they do require it.
5. Review text in messages carefully
A key tip to identifying a scam is to carefully review the text. A closer look may reveal typos, grammar errors or falsified images – these are clear signs to delete the message.
Expand your resources
If you’re ever unsure whether something is a scam, reach out to your local banker. Financial institutions are well-equipped to advise you on common fraud tactics and how to respond.
Just as our clients insure their homes and cars, we recommend purchasing fraud insurance as well. When your information is compromised, this insurance can help you recover funds while your bank secures your finances by filing a claim, freezing your accounts and providing new cards or online banking information. Always take financial security seriously.
~ Terry Mitchell is a market manager at Valley Bank’s Auburn branch. He has been banking in the area for 25 years.
*This article is for informational purposes only. Any views, thoughts and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Valley National Bank.
© 2025 Valley National Bank. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender. All Rights Reserved.
Saturday, June 21, 2025
Tallassee
9.
1. Joey Wiginton and Veronica Mouritsen
2. Rebecca and Jane Johnston
3. Donna Mote and Ryleigh Jenkins
4. Paisley Moore and Maryann Fuller
5. Kaisen Schley, Hanzel Jackson and Hezekiah Osborne
6. Shelby and Caleb Lusk
7. Olivia Fannin, Elliott and Bailey Hathcock and Jenny Spears
8. Remy Eargle, Ethan Ogburn, Declan Eargle, Lindsey Phelan and Luke Eargle
Easterling and Lucero Carpenter
10. Rylynn Pritchard, Francklin Moyer and Gionni Velasquez
11. Alyssa Parker and Jo-Liyah Davis
12. Michelle Cole
13. Mattie Haynes, Seleta Lawrence and Annalise and Miguel Rodriguez
14. Daniel McDavid and Jamie Wassum 15. Breelyn Fannin and Erin Temple 16. Tammie and Maggie Bentley
OH SNAP! Dadeville BBQ Social
1. DaBretta Johnson and Melissa Brown
2. Mike and Vivian Autry
3. Gabe McBride and Peter Golden
4. Beth Connor and Kristin Richardson
5. Lexy Oliver, Bridget Thornell and Jen Peavy
6. Charissa Reynolds, Carol Sellers and Ginger McCollum
7. Tara Snyder and Joe and Hope Taunton
8. Teresa Cameron, Nancy Pemberton and Angela Vanhouten
9. Billie and David Gray
Emmi Malpass and Marissa Becker
Clayton and Abby Guy and Randy Dawkins
Saturday, June 21, 2025
New Site
2.
4.
5.
7.
1. Carolyn Senn and Melissa Willis
Gabby and Marla Garner
3. Austin, Raylyn, Allison and Naomi Oliver
Skylie Chambers, Patricia Adams and Riley Businelle
Mike and Rachel Nolen and Lisa Johnson
6. Mackenzie McMath, Lexi Jackson and Tuff and Cal Jackson
Wes and Beth Walker and David Rush
8. Tiffani Whatley, Ashley Kullum and Cheryl Blair
1. Brian and Jenifer Lucas 2. Cooper Malone
3. Dustin Brown and Bruce Batchelor
4. Charlotte, Amelia and Savannah Belle
5. Cupcake and Bobbi Arnett
6. Levi Waites
7. Lisa and Carly Lovelady
8. Gavin Hill, Rayleigh Williams, Willie Lindell, Haley Rowell, Claire Girsing, Eva Caponetto and Harrison Renfroe
9. Ethan Hunt, and Grey, Lizzie, Will, Chelci and J.W. Turner 10. Jackie and JW Yarbrough and Brandy, J.R. and Sandra Rooks
Friday,
July 4, 2025
Lake Martin Amphitheater
1. Hannah Miller, Lillie Hollabaugh, Caroline Grace Hathcock and Emma Katherine King
2. Emma Barnett, Mallory Moore and Adrienne Miles
3. Jamieson Harris, Dimony Boozer, Jaryah Lovejoy, Jordan Harris, Brandie and Harrison Harris and Cara Johns
4. Lily Waddell, Andrew Herndon and Crystal Waddell
5. Shelby Eads, April and Chris Funderburk, Bryant Evans and EvansLeigh Lane Strouse
6. Derek Jones and Rachel Mavers-Jones
7. Martha Sue Champion and Bud Champion
8. Jernigan and Joni Smart, Lucy Bragg, Allison Rogers and Ellie Smart
9. Jace, Jonathan and Chandler Sandlin
10. Sean and Reagan Flynn and Sherry Leigh, Lacey Kathryn and Robbie Farquhar
THE LAKE REGION
FEATURED EVENT Calendar
Lake Martin Songwriters Festival
The 5th Annual Lake Martin Songwriters Festival returns July 24-27, bringing four days of live music to one of Alabama’s most beautiful backdrops –Lake Martin.
This year’s festival features 30 songwriters from across the Southeast, performing at 15 iconic venues in lake communities.
From cozy sets at Zazu’s Verandah in Dadeville to lively nights at Chuck’s Marina and Boondocks at Bay Pine, each show promises a unique atmosphere and up-close connection to the music.
The festival wraps up with a grand finale concert July 26 at The AMP. Alabama artists Drake White, Adam Hood and Charlie Argo will take the stage for a high-energy night of country, soul and rock. The outdoor venue offers plenty of
space to spread out with a blanket or dance under the stars as the lake breeze rolls in. Gates open at 5 p.m., with music starting at 6 p.m.
The Stage is Set Talented musicians from far and wide are scheduled to perform at 15 of Lake Martin's most iconic venues.
Fans can also catch rising talents such as Terri Jo Box, Barrett Baber and Marla Cannon-Goodman, who have written hits for Nashville’s biggest names. Whether you’re enjoying dinner at a lakeside restaurant or pulling up a chair on the green, the festival offers something for everyone.
The Lake Martin Songwriters Festival has grown into a must-see summer event. For the full schedule and ticket information, visit lakemartinsongwritersfestival.com.
July 18-20
101 Dalmatians KIDS Musical
Come see the musical adaptation of Disney’s classic animated film 101 Dalmatians. Directed by ACT II, children from the community will star in this delightful and lively musical filled with comedy and the joy of family, both human and canine. Held at Benjamin Russell High School auditorium, the show starts at 6 p.m. July 18 and July 19 and 2 p.m. July 20. Admission is free. For more details visit actheatre2.com or the Alexander City Theatre II Facebook page.
July 19
Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run
Support local charities and the pursuit of cash prizes on the water with the 22nd Annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run. Russell Marine invites Lake Martin to travel the lake drawing cards at Kowaliga Marina, Real Island Marina, BoonDocks at Bay Pine, River North Marina and The Ridge Marina in hopes of scoring the winning hand. Live music from Shades of Gray and food from Chick-fil-A at The Ridge Marina will be included as well. The entry fee is $200, and registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. and last until 11 a.m. Poker Run winners will be announced at The Ridge Marina at 4 p.m. (Winners must be present). Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for more details.
July 19
100 Alabama Miles Challenge Kick-off
Celebrate hiking in the Lake Martin area with 100 Alabama Miles Challenge Kick-Off. Starting at 9 a.m., join the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association and Explore Lake Martin team at Smith Mountain for a 1-mile hike along the Walker Bynum Trail to the Jerry W. Bynum Fire Lookout Tower. Attendees will receive a free t-shirt and check off their first mile of the challenge. For more information, email payton@explorelakemartin.com or katelyn@explorelakemartin.com.
LAKE REGION EVENTS
July 19
Enchanted Tea Time
Join the Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast in Alexander City from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. for a cozy afternoon filled with tea, tasty treats and great company. Tickets are $40 per person and seating is limited. Reserve your spot by calling Jennifer Durrett at 256-329-3717.
July 26
Burgers & Boats
Join Singleton Marine Blue Creek Marina for lunch while they serve hamburgers, hot dogs, refreshments and demonstration rides on premium models of boats. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and brands will include Axis, Barletta, Cobalt and Malibu. Pack up the family and stop in at Blue Creek Marina for good food, great company and the best boats in town. Visit singletonmarine.com/ event/2025-burgers-and-boats for more information.
August
9
Alabama Talent Show
Elite Status Events and Mount Vernon Theatre proudly present two thrilling talent shows in Tallassee. Held at Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center, the community is invited to come enjoy a day filled with incredible live performances, from singers and dancers to comedians and magicians. Judged by local celebrities and community leaders, prizes will be awarded to the top performers. The youth show begins at 10 a.m. and runs to 2 p.m. and the adult show will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Local vendors and food trucks will also be onsite. Tickets are $25 and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to help Alabama homeless. To purchase tickets or enter the competition, email info@elitestatusevents.com or visit alabamahastalent.com.
August
15
Town Creek Ramblers
Bluegrass Band and Guests
Enjoy bluegrass music portrayed by the talented Town Creek Ramblers. Known for their toe-tapping, soultouching bluegrass and new grass music, each show features special
artists from the region. Advance tickets are $10 or $15 at the door. Kids attend free. For more information, please visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.
August 16
Alexander City Performing Arts Fundraiser Dinner
Come out and support the Alexander City Performing Arts with an evening of dinner and dancing on the Plaza. The fundraising event includes a steak dinner at Jake’s Restaurant with live performances by saxophonist Denise Bates and The Charles Forbus Band. Tickets are available at three levels: $75 for indoor dinner with both shows, $60 for dinner outside under tents and $20 for entertainment only. Tickets are limited. For more information, email alexcityarts@gmail.com or contact 256-794-3443.
August 19
Second Annual Dinner on the Square
The Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Chamber presents the second annual Dinner on the Square. This progressive dining experience allows participants to sample food and beverages from several local restaurants in one unique evening. Three seating times are available, with a maximum of 50 people per time slot. Tickets are $75 per person, and space is limited. For additional information, visit dadevillechamber.com or contact 256-825-4019.
August 20
Story Time at Mamie’s Place
This family-friendly event invites children of all ages to spark their imaginations as the staff at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library shares fun and engaging stories. The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. For more information, call 256-409-7015.
August 29-30
Labor Day Music Fest
Wrap up the summer at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads with Russell Lands' annual Labor Day Music Fest. The talented and star-studded lineup will include local favorite cover band, The Bank
LAKE REGION EVENTS
Walkers, along with country music singer-songwriter, Andrew Jannakos on Friday night. On Saturday evening the fun continues with Amber Lee Jones and Main Street hitting the stage, followed by The Alabama All Stars. The event will start at 6:30 p.m. and last until 9:30 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring coolers for refreshments. Fanny’s will be serving dinner and beverages. Admission is free. For more information, visit russelllands.com/blog/events.
August 31
Black Jacket Symphony
The Era of Yacht Rock
The Black Jacket Symphony returns to The AMP for another unforgettable performance. This Labor Day weekend, enjoy an evening of your favorite yacht rock hits of the late 70s and early 80s with the picturesque scenery of Lake Martin as the backdrop. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit russelllands.com/blog/events.
Season-long Events
Friday On The Green
Every Friday night all summer long (with the exception of Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival and Labor Day weekends), Russell Lands hosts free music and lawn games on the Town Green from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, coolers, kids and the pup on a leash to start your weekend at the lake with family and friends. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for more details.
Yoga On The Green
Join the Yoga gang Saturday mornings at 7 a.m. on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Yoga On The Green is designed for all levels from beginner to advanced, led by certified instructors. It is free to participate; all you need to bring is your mat and water bottle. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for details.
Naturalist Presentations and Guided Tours
Come see naturalist Marianne and her lively nature presentations at the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the
beauty of nature. Check russelllands. com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.
Weekly Birdwatching Adventure
Join the Wind Creek State Park naturalist on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. to learn about feathered friends that call Lake Martin home. The experience is open to camping guests and day visitors. Park entrance fees apply. Contact dylan. ogle@dcnr.alabama.gov for more information.
Music in the Air at Zazu’s Verandah
Enjoy free live music every Thursday evening this summer at Zazu’s Verandah, located on the beautiful Dadeville Square. The Music in the Air series runs through July 24, with performances from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m., and guests ages 21 and older are welcome. Tips for musicians are appreciated. Charcuterie snack trays, serving two, are available for pre-order for $15, with gluten-free and vegetarian options upon request. Charcuterie snack trays must be ordered by 10 a.m. each Thursday. Call 256-307-2188 or visit zazusverandah.com.
Artists Association of Central Alabama
AACA artists meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex grounds, with a general meeting followed by open studio. Club dues are $20 for the year.
Pastry & Paint
Join local painter Kay Fincher for a painting event from 9 a.m. to noon on the first Thursday of each month at The Grand Bakery on Broadnax Street in Dadeville. All materials will be provided to complete a canvas picture. No previous painting experience is necessary; however, reservations are required. The class is $30 for each person and is limited to 10 participants. Call Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506 to reserve a spot.
Acoustic Jam Session
Acoustic musicians of all skill levels are invited to gather on the second Saturday of each month to share music in a fun and welcoming environment.
The acoustic jam session is free, and the public is invited to attend, listen or join in. The event takes place at 128 N. Broadnax Street in Dadeville. Contact office@dadevilleperformingartcenter.com for more information.
Covered Dish Social
The Real Island Community hosts a monthly covered dish social on the third Friday of each month at the RIVFD Training and Community Center at 6:30 p.m. at 1495 Real Island Road in Equality. Whether you’re a longtime resident, visiting or new to the area, everyone is welcome to come and fellowship. Call 334-857-3233 for more information.
Cocktail Class
at The Local at 41 Main
Come learn to create and enjoy delicious, handcrafted cocktails at The Local at 41 Main. Participants receive hands-on training in addition to an inside look behind the history of the cocktails. Classes are $35 and held every third Saturday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Contact The Local at 41 Main on Facebook for more information.
Stillwaters Dog Fight Golf
Join golfers of all ages and abilities at Stillwaters Golf Club at 10 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday for an open golf event. In addition to regular golf fees, players pay a small entry fee of $7 or $15, depending on the day. For details, call the golf shop at 256-825-1353.
Wellborn Musclecar Museum
The Wellborn Musclecar Museum collection of great American automobiles of the 1960s and 1970s is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This exemplary collection includes the famed K&K Dodge, the 1970 Grand National Champion, as well as aero cars designed for NASCAR. The inventory on display changes frequently, so every visit includes something new and exciting. Admission for adults is $11, children ages 7 to 17 are admitted for $7 and children ages 6 and under are admitted for free. Call 256-329-8474 or email wellbornmusclecarmuseum@gmail.com to arrange discounted group tours or private tours.
Explore
Lake Martin
Kowaliga Marina
256-397-1210
The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300
River North Marina 256-397-1500
Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700
Real Island Marina 334-857-2741
Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888
Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550
Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600
Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793
SpringHouse 256-215-7080
Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070
Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035
Acapulco Mexican Gril 334-283-2725
Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567
Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132
Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256
The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333
Kowaliga Whole Health 334-857-1816
Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133
Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847
Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717
Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440
Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820
Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-307-1499
LakeScape 334-857-2443
Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400
Dixie Sailing Club
Lakeshore Pharmacy 256-825-0063
Singleton Marine 256-269-0088
Momentum Marine 256-825-9286
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ALEXANDER CITY:
Abernathy Farm Supply
Alex City Airport
Alex City Marine
Alex City Public Library
BeYOUtiful Salon
Big B Barbeque
Bone & Joint Specialists
Carlisle Drugs
Carlos Mexican Grill
Catherine's Market
Central State Bank
Chamber of Commerce
Citgo City Hall
Cloud Nine
Court House Annex
Dark Insurance
Days Inn
Dr. Mackey
Dr. Sublett
Emporium Wine
Exxon
Fanny Goldmine's Diner
George W. Hardy- Dentist
Grace's Flowers
Hainey's
Hampton Inn
Heritage South Credit Union
Hillabee Towers
Hometown Pharmacy
Jackson Drugs
Jake's
Jet Pep/Mobil Gas Station
Jim Bobs
JR's Sports Bar & Grill
Karen Channel- State Farm
Koon's Korner
Lake Martin Pizza Co
Lake Martin Nutrition
Larry's General Store
Longleaf Antiques
Main Street Urgent Care
Mark King's Furniture
Medicine Express
North Lake Condo
Picket Fence
Pri Care
Quality Inn
Regions Bank
ReMax
Ridge Marina
River Bank
River Bend Store
River North Marina
Russel Do It Center
Russel Marine Boating & Outdoors
Russell Home Decor
Russell Medical
Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center
Satterfield
Senior Nutrition Center
Shay Aesthetics
Smith Marina
Springhouse
Sun’s Diner
Sunrise Docks
Super 8
Temple Medical
The Body Shop
The Ridge Club
The Square
The Sure Shot
Tippy Canoe
TR Group
Valley Bank
Walgreen's
Warren Appliance
Willow Point Country Club
Willow Point Office
Wind Creek Gate
Wind Creek Store
DADEVILLE:
Alabama Power
Amazin' Grazin'
Boondocks
Blue Creek Marina
Chuck's Marina
City Hall
Courthouse
Creekside Lodge
Dadeville Chamber of Commerce
Dadeville Public Library
Dadevillle Wellness Center
Deep Water Docks
Ellaby Boutique
Farmer's Merchant Bank
Fawnbrook
Floyd's Feed and Seed
Flutterflies
Harbor Pointe
Holiday Shores Grocery
Hwy 50 Eagle
Jim's Pharmacy
Lakay's
Lake Martin Community Hospital
Lake Martin Pecan
Lake Martin Pizza
Lake Martin Realty
Lakeshore Pharmacy
Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe
McKelvey
Miller's on Broadnax
Millstone Nursery
Momentum Marina
Moore's Hardware
Niffer's
NolaBama
Oskar's
Payne's Furniture
Poplar Dawgs
Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery
Renfroes
Russell Building Supply
Russell Realty on 49
Shell
Siggers
Stillwaters Country Club
The Backyard
The Cart Source
The Grand Bakery
Two Ghosts Coffee
Valley Bank
TALLASSEE:
1220 Cafe
Chamber of Commerce
Community Hospital
Eagle
First Community Bank
Guardian Credit Union
Louie's Chicken Fingers
MaePop's Barbecue
Marathon
Red Hill Gallery
WETUMPKA:
First Community Bank
The Wetumpka Herald Office
Wow Catering
EQUALITY:
Equality Food Mart
Parker Marina
Real Island Marina
Southern Star
ECLECTIC:
Anchor Bay Marina, Inc.
Children's Harbor
Cotton's BBQ
Eclectic Public Library
First Community Bank
Johnson Furniture
Kowaliga General Store
Kowaliga Marina
Kowaliga Restaurant
LakeScape
Lake Martin Machine Gun
Lake Martin Reflections
Nails
Offshore Marina
Russell Do It Center
Get Lake Martin Living delivered to your mailbox for just $50 per year. To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.
Lake Martin fashion, or a lack thereof
Let me start with a confession: I have a closet full of cute summer dresses and tops. Sequins, linen, tasteful cleavage – the works. And yet, come Labor Day, I’ll have worn approximately one item. Maybe two if we count that time I tried to class up a fish fry or made John take me to SpringHouse. I usually go to SpringHouse because I have a good outfit that needs exposure and hair that needs a blowout. Here’s the truth: Lake fashion will never reflect what’s in Vogue and has everything to do with what you can toss on with wet hair, one flipflop and a drink already in your hand. You look back on old lake photos and never can quite tell what year it is. That’s because the wardrobe doesn’t change because the lifestyle doesn’t change. Alabama humidity, fighting bugs, SPF overload and an unspoken agreement that we’re all just doing our best. The older you get, you do reach for the linen. Linen is your friend.
There is a distinct aesthetic to life on Lake Martin. It’s not trendy. It’s not curated. It’s not trying to win Instagram. It’s just a bunch of river rats vibing – and that mood deserves its own fashion guide. Here is my 100 percent accurate, absolutely not-atall-serious Lake Martin Fashion Report.
The No. 1 lake accessory is your sunglasses. Not because they’re stylish – because you will lose every single pair by the end of summer. If catfish could talk, they’d rattle off RayBan serial numbers. You need two types of sunglasses: your designer pair, worn for boat rides and brunch and then your Dollar General backup pairs, worn for everything else –and usually found scratched under the captain’s seat. Swimsuits are your true uniform, and we all have an entire drawer or dresser devoted to them. Like it or not, this is what you’ll wear 85 percent of the time. You have your Target cheapies, and then if you splurge, there may be Revolve brands, Vix, Billabong, Robin Piccone or Vetchy in rotation. Again, the older you get, you do have to splurge because we need better material to keep things high and tight. Most Lake Martin locals either have a workout regimen or have completely let it go. And honestly? Good for them. By midJuly, it’s too hot to care. You’re not hoping for abs – you’re reaching for cold beer and chips. Priorities, people.
Hats are a must, and sadly they are “Gone with the Wind” faster than Scarlett O’Hara. It’s a tragic cycle. You’ll fall in love with a hat. The hat will fly off during a full-throttle boat run. You’ll scream. The driver won’t stop. The hat is gone. We’ve all been there. You will also have a variety of tops in the beach bag. If your shirt says something like “Lake Hair, Don’t Care,” congratulations, you’re officially in the club. Cheese it up, sis! If you bought it from a gas station on Highway 280 – iconic.
The one you get at Peanut Point will be styled as a dress.
Footwear is optional at best. Most of us are barefoot. But buy yourself five pairs of cheap flip-flops at Walmart anyway, because you’ll lose four by June. Pro tip: Keep one “sporty” pair with a back strap. You’ll eventually find yourself forging a rocky shoreline and thank me.
Lake living strips you of your vanity, and after a few years, you give up on hair and makeup. But it will make sense to layer your sunscreen with a cheap foundation for extra protection. Most girls still rock waterproof mascara and that’s about it. Kid hair detangler and a Wet Brush cover the rest of the look to belly up to the bar at The Landing.
Culture Shock
If you’re carrying a proper purse at the lake, we worry about you because you haven’t ruined anything expensive yet. Boat bags are all you need with your wallet in it. Bonus points if yours is a Yeti and everyone gets pretty into whatever Yeti’s new colors are. Don’t even ask me where the beach towels come from haven’t purchased one since 2013.
Cover-ups can provide you with a timeline depending on how the sarongs are tied that year, but one thing that is unfailing in its constant rotation is the denim shorts. Cutoffs are another item that have an entire drawer in my closet. Do I need another pair? No. Do I always get a new pair? Yes.
So when you see a Lake Martin native in the wild, perhaps at Chuck’s, strutting across the bar with a visor, leopard swimsuit, tank top from the Flora-Bama and a large pizza, remember he or she is not behind the times; they are the time. The good time, and follow them because you want to go where they are going. In closing, at the lake, your uniform is just getting you safely to the next dock, float slough or party. It’s covering your crazy tan lines. If we happen to look cute, then cool, but know we are all happiest skinnydipping because no clothes at all is the best option! See you out there!
~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and loves good wine. Follow her on Instagram @LaceyHowell.
Lacey Howell
Peanut Point
Lake Martin, AL
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