Lake Martin Living November 2023 by Tallapoosa Publishers

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

Dadeville Chorus The Fireball Singers and the Modulators

HORSES on Parade

November 2023

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

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From the Editor’s Desk

t really is not too early to talk about Christmas. By the time this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine comes back from the printer, both Alexander City and Dadeville will have already held their chamber open house events. And when the December issue of Lake Martin Living magazine is released, all but one or two of the holiday events on our calendars will be over. My guess is that most of you had the ‘who-will-be-wherewhen?’ conversation with adult children at least a month ago. You know, that’s the one in which the kids say what pair of in-laws get which holiday this year, Thanksgiving or Christmas. You really can’t plan anything until you know the answer to that question. Are you finished with your shopping yet? I only just got started a couple of weeks ago. Every year, I tell myself how nice it would be if I started earlier, so I would be pretty close to finished by now. That way, I could take in the festivities without being rushed, at least that’s what I tell myself. In truth, it’s never happened, so I don’t really know. In this issue, you’ll find information about lots of fun holiday events happening throughout the area, including Christmas at Crossroads (see page 40), the Pennington Park display lighting event and the ACT II Christmas production. We delve into the history of the Annual Alexander City Christmas Parade with Alex City Riding Club, hosted by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, on page 24, and Lori Harrell has some budget tips on page 28 to help you keep control of holiday spending. Ben Smith highlights three music events that add joy to the season on pages 22, 26 and 30. Perhaps these thoughtful gestures will spark your holiday cheer-spreading as well. But we haven’t completely skipped past autumn and that wonderful season of Thanksgiving. Revisit the fall festivals and events in the Oh Snap! section, starting on page 35. Then, turn to page 24 for Gina Abernathy’s scrumptious chicken and dressing recipe. It will provide you with something awesome to add to your table or take to the in-laws. You can almost smell the fabulous aroma just looking at Audra Spear’s photo. And Erin Chesnutt found more sweet and savory delights this month in Waverly at Wild Flour Bakery. Check out her Go Local column on page 10 to inspire your Thanksgiving table. Wherever you are planning to celebrate the holidays, start early, so the fun will last longer.

Betsy Iler, Editor-in-Chief

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Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone

General Manager Tippy Hunter Editor-in-Chief Betsy Iler Creative Services Audra Spears Business & Digital Development Director Angela Mullins Contributors Kenneth Boone Ben Smith Lacey Howell Dani Carroll George Miranda Lori Harrell Gina Abernathy Audra Spears Cliff Williams Abigail Murphy Henry Zimmer William Marlow Erin Chesnutt Lizi Arbogast Gwin Audience Development Director Samantha Himes Marketing/Advertising Sales Renee Trice Sheryl Jennings Hidey Arrington Rachel Hubbard Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

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Allie Reams looks forward to riding Penny in the Christmas Parade in Alexander City, along with her parents, Kathryn and Robert Reams. It’s an event she’s loved since she started riding as a child, and a tradition in which the Alex City Riding Club has participated for more than 25 years. Photo by Kenneth Boone

FEATURES 14. RIDING CLUB ON PARADE Alex City Riding Club members have ridden in every Alexander City Christmas Parade for more than 25 years. 22. TOMMY G Spreading cheer one nostalgic tune at a time. 26. CHRISTMAS WITH FRIENDS The Fireball Singers and the Modulators make Christmas music personal. 30. DADEVILLE SINGS OUT An intergenerational choir shares the season's favorite tunes.

IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 10. GO LOCAL 18. GARDEN TALK 24 . GOOD EATS 28. MONEY MATTERS 32. MEDICAL NEWS 35. OH SNAP! 40. LAKE REGION EVENTS 50. CULTURE SHOCK

Dadeville Community Chorus is just one of the many Christmas events kicking off the joyous season.

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AROUND THE AREA

Months later, shooting survivor is thriving It’s been just a few months since Tallassee High School student Cara Johns lay in a hospital bed after several gunshot wounds. She was a survivor of the Dadeville mass shooting on April 15, but on Friday, Oct. 6, she certainly didn’t look like a victim. Johns got to dress up as part of the Tallassee homecoming court and was graced with the chance to walk across the field at J.E. ‘Hot’ O'Brien Stadium with her father, Justin, as her name was announced through the stadium’s PA system. Recovery from the tragedy resulted in multiple surgeries to address shoulder and eye issues. She returned to school at Tallassee as a senior in

September. A few weeks later, she and other seniors celebrated as they got their class rings. Johns then found out she was on the homecoming court with five of her classmates. She was joined in the fun by the rest of the homecoming court: Macy Crain, Allison Johnson, Ava Grace Justiss, Kanaisa Parrott and Sarah Jane Patterson. “It was special to be there,” Johns said. “We got to hang out on the football field. It was so fun.” “No matter what you are going through, you should always be yourself,” Johns said. “People don’t know The Wonder of Miracles what you are going through." Tallassee High School's Cara Johns walked with her father five ~Cliff Williams months after she was shot several times during the April 15 shooting.

Fall Food drive returns to Dadeville This holiday season, Tallapoosa Nutrition and Zazu’s Verandah have partnered together for the fall food drive. Tallapoosa Nutrition is accepting donations for nonperishable food and personal hygiene products through Dec. 20. Donations will be accepted Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tallapoosa Nutrition is located at 132 W. Cusseta St. in Dadeville. All collected food will go toward local food pantries, including First Baptist Church and Loaves and Fishes. Some suggested donation items include baby food and formula, beans, cake mixes, candy, stews, cereals, crackers, oatmeal, pasta, peanut butter, powdered milk, rice, taco kits, pet food and tuna. Mitzy Hidding of Zazu’s Verandah said this is a big need in the community, and she encourages Sunday school classes, civic groups, charitable organizations and other individuals to get involved. According to Feeding America, one in five children are facing hunger in Alabama, and people in every county in the state experience food insecurity. This local food drive effort will benefit those in the Dadeville community and beyond. ~ Staff Report

Horeshoe Bend High School junior to perform in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Hamp Bowen, a junior baritone player at Horseshoe Bend High School, was one of only 225 high school students selected from across the country to play in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York. ~Lizi Arbogast Gwin

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GO LOCAL

Wild Flour Bakery STORY BY ERIN CHESNUTT & PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER

arah and Howard Jones took the phrase, “Do what you love …” to the next level when they started Wild Flour Bakery in Waverly in early spring. The couple now offers their customers a unique experience and an incredible selection of homemade pastries, breads, espresso and fresh brew coffee in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. “I always loved baking and creating new homemade goods. It really started as a hobby” Sarah Jones explained. “I was selling muffins out of my car when Corrie Sid of Grove Station in Tallassee suggested I lease space in the restaurant. That’s how Wild Flour Bakery got its start.” After a year at Grove Station, Jones decided to 10 Lake Martin Living

expand the business and knew more space was needed. Howard, a retired Army veteran who also worked at Veterans Affairs after moving to Alabama, came onboard to run the front of the house. The couple found the perfect location at Standard Deluxe in Waverly. Wild Flour Bakery opened its doors there on April 4. “This is truly a family business,” Howard said. “Our children, Caleb, age 15, and Hannah, age 12, are homeschooled, so they are available to help out when we get busy.” The bakery offers two lunch items each day, and patrons are encouraged to follow Wild Flour Bakery on Instagram and Facebook to keep up with what’s

on the menu. In addition, there’s a gourmet coffee, tea and espresso bar that features Toomers Coffee and Thankfully Coffee, both locally sourced in Auburn. The coffee selections also can be purchased for home brewing. The pastry case changes daily, and the shop is usually sold out of the bakery items by the end of the day. Preorder options are available, so a favorite item could be picked up when needed. The couple also offers special item orders for Thanksgiving and Christmas. “I love buying new spices and trying new things,” Jones said. “Bread is one of my favorite things to make. There are so many ways to experiment with new flavors.” In addition to bread, some of the best-selling items include cinnamon rolls and an assortment of cheesecakes. The lunch selections also have become very popular. “Our Deluxe Dog always sells out fast,” Howard said. “It’s Conecuh sausage, ham, cheese and onion jam on homemade bread with everything-bagel seasoning.” The business is expanding, and the Jones’ plan to hire additional help to keep up with the demand and provide the best possible customer service.

“We wanted to Baking Gone Wild create a European- Clockwise from Facing Page: Wild Flour Bakery offers an style bakery experience worth the drive to in smalltown Waverly; Sarah and Howard Alabama, and the Jones work the shop with their trend has taken children, Hannah (center) and off,” Jones said. Caleb (not pictured); The New The couple is York cheesecake drips always looking with deliciousness; Fresh baked goods abound; An assortment for new items fort customers to enjoy. of 5-inch cookies make a great mid-day snack. They recently started selling local honey from Shiloh Apiary in Dadeville. The shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday is the busiest day with customers lining up before the bakery shop opens. Wild Flour Bakery is located at 1015 Mayberry St. in Waverly. Follow @wildflour.microbakery or on Facebook. Place orders at wfbakeryllc@gmail.com or call 334-755-6513.

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Riding Club on Parade

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STORY BY BETSY ILER

hen the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade winds through town Dec. 4, Alex City Riding Club members will dress their horses and close out the annual event, just as they have for more than 25 years. “The horses have always been a big favorite,” said Alexander City’s Susan Foy, who coordinated the annual Christmas Parade during her tenure with the chamber in the early 2000s. Though the club lost its arena and show grounds to the construction of a new high school earlier this year, members expected to close on the purchase of 14 acres in Coosa County shortly after Lake Martin Living magazine’s presstime for this issue, said Club President Jimmy Avery. While the new property has No Matter the Weather Facing Page: Alex City been cleared, riding club Riding Club members members will begin grading don warm coats, work and the installation of gloves and hats for city water once the property a cold ride through has changed hands. town; Above: The Alex City Riding Club club has ridden in has a rich 60-year history every Alexander City in the area. The club was Christmas Parade for more than 25 years. founded in 1963 and held

court in the Russell Brands industrial complex where Alexander City Parks and Recreation now operates the public swimming pool. The club moved to the sportplex at the City’s invitation in 1991 to provide an equestrian presence at the new facility. There, members sank more than $300,000 into building one of the finest horse show arenas in the state. But this summer, the City cancelled the club’s lease and provided the club with $100,000 in seed money as plans finalized to build a state-of-the-art high school at the sportplex. Alex City Riding Club hosted their final show at the arena on Sept. 12, and then, members salvaged what could be re-used as they began the search for new property. Even though the club’s new home will demand a great deal of attention, members are committed to appearing in the chamber’s annual holiday parade, Avery said. “We have participated in the parade since the parade began,” he said. “When the riding club was formed in 1963, the chamber was not having a parade, so we’ve been in every one of them.” While there was a Christmas parade in Alexander City in the 1950s and perhaps earlier, the event faded at some point and was revived in 1991, according to an article in The Outlook on Dec. 6 of that year. Avery said the riders met on the college grounds Lake Martin Living 15

for the first event in 1991 and joined the parade as it passed the intersection of Cherokee and Dadeville roads. “Only members of the club can ride with us, but last year we had 40 riders. They dress up and put lights on the horses. Some of our members come from Childersburg, Sylacauga and places in Elmore County for this,” Avery said. “They like to present the horses to the crowd. The horses are always the last entry in the lineup, but a lot of people stay until the end to see the horses.” Alex City Riding Club board member Robert Reams said he and his family have ridden in the parade since they joined the organization in 2018. “It’s just a joy to the city kids who watch the parade. They don’t get to see horses close up, and in the parade, they are within about 5 feet of them,” Reams said. “I always dress my horse up like an elf. He’s got green socks and a green saddle blanket. One of the biggest things we do every year is riding in that parade.” Doing so is not easy duty, as the riders must mount up an hour and a half prior to actually appearing before parade watchers. “It can be pretty cold. I’ve been in the parade when it was 28 degrees. We’re on horseback at 5 p.m., and the parade doesn’t start until 6 p.m. We’re the last group in the parade, so it might be 6:30 before we start moving,” Reams explained. Riders are not allowed to throw candy or baubles 16 Lake Martin Living

to parade watchers, a A Holiday Costume Robert Reams dresses protection to help keep his horse with green children from dashing socks and a festive into the street around the blanket and collar animals. for the annual But even then, the parade Christmas Parade. is a highlight of Reams’ riding year. “Just to see the joy of the kids is a neat experience,” he said. Today’s route travels up Cherokee Road to Church Street and turns onto Tallapoosa Street beyond the downtown traffic circle, dispersing at Strand Park. “Back in those days, the parade gathered behind the college and went up through Main Street and over the train tracks. We used to have to call the railroad and let them know when we were doing the parade, so they could stop the trains from running,” Foy said. Reams said riders once considered the parade a trail ride, as horses traveled city streets to return to the trailers that were parked at the parade gathering grounds. Though entry registrations for this year’s parade event were still coming in at Lake Martin Living’s presstime, Avery said members in October were already asking about the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade. “We’ll probably have 40 or more riders again this year. We wouldn’t miss it,” he said.

Shop Local for the Holidays This Holiday Season

134 Calhoun Street, Alexander City, AL (256) 234-5059

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Plant Now Fall and winter are the best times to add to your landscaping

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pring fever is a gardening phenomenon that involves numerous trips to the local plant nursery, piling up the vehicle with ornamental plants and trees and bringing them home to quickly decide on the perfect spot. In the fall and winter months, it’s easy to get busy with other gardening musts, like cleaning lawn mowers and tools and putting them away for a winter rest. But do not overlook the fact that the cool weather seasons of fall and winter are perfect times for adding trees and shrubs to the landscape. Deciduous shrubs and trees start winding down in the fall, as temperatures grow cooler and day-length shortens. The leaves drop to the ground, and the plants prepare for their nap. They may not be growing above ground, but there is a lot going on beneath the soil, making this a great time to get plants established. Though Alabama experiences cold air temperatures, its native soils stay warm, providing the roots of the plants a very habitable environment. The roots will continue to grow, forming a more substantial anchor for the plant. The increased root growth gives the plant a jump on the following growing season. It will be able to absorb more water and nutrients come spring when the plant is Dani Carroll focused more on foliage and flowering. This is especially important given how quickly the region often warms in the spring and summer. High temperatures and a length of time without water are tough for most well-established plants. Consider a few matters before putting the shovel to the ground. First of all, is this the right plant for the right place? Will a particular plant grow well in the selected space? Research the plant in question before placing it. Consider the soil type and the amount of sun the plant will receive. Popping a plant into an undesirable location Setting Plants could lead to poor Fall and winter are growth and the added the best times to add issue of pest problems shrubs and trees down the road. Match to the landscape.

GARDEN TALK

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the water and light needs of the plant to those around it to make irrigating simpler. Many trees and shrubs thrive in different soil types (clay, sand) and pH levels. In an existing bed, choose plants that thrive in the same conditions as the existing plants. If starting a new landscape bed, consider a soil test to better understand what preparation should be done before planting. One of the most overlooked details when planting trees and shrubs is considering their mature sizes. As an example, some of the evergreen azaleas, such as Pride of Mobile, will ultimately reach heights of 6 to 10 feet and widths as large as 8 to 12 feet if growing in suitable locations and left to their own devices. Pruning to minimize plant damage is sometimes necessary, but pruning to keep a plant to a limited size often becomes a painful chore, leading to the plant’s removal. Then, take care in the actual planting. Containergrown trees and shrubs are the most accessible and probably the easiest to plant with little attention to details, but the shrub or the trunk of the tree is not a handle. It is very easy to damage a plant by carrying it this way. In an existing landscape bed, dig the hole at least (more is better) twice the width of the root ball. This may seem like overkill, but there’s a good use for the extra space: Loosen the roots and spread them out, so they are not circling inside the planting hole. Tease the root ball gently to separate the roots and spread them out laterally. Some containerized plants have roots that encircle the root ball and need to be cut to allow them to better spread out. This is very important as the roots may

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continue to circle Do It Right Above Left: Dig the planting in the ground and hole twice the size of the root girdle themselves ball; Above Right: Loosen the leading to rapid roots of a container-grown plant decline. plant to prevent development Dig the planting problems later. hole no deeper (and a little shallower) than the root ball of the plant. Deep holes lead to roots being deprived of oxygen, as well as bark deterioration with trees. Once the hole is dug, score its sides, loosening up the clay soil. Use the native soil to refill the hole. Place the plant and refill halfway with soil. Water it well, and let it settle a bit before filling up the hole the rest of the way. Once a new tree or shrub has been planted, pay attention to watering needs, and be sure to mulch well – just not up against the bark of the tree or shrub. This will help eliminate weed competition, mediate soil temperatures and conserve water. No fertilization is needed at planting and usually not for the first year of growth. The plant will thank you for getting it off to the right start. For help on other home and garden questions, contact your local county Extension office or visit us online at aces.edu. ~Dani Carroll is a regional Extension agent for home horticulture serving East Central Alabama.

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Tommy G Music for Memories STORY & PHOTO BY BEN SMITH

n a place where we think of pain as plentiful and silky sound of a saxophone cuts through the air like a suffering as commonplace, music seems to hang knife through cake. in the air a little bit longer than elsewhere. Down A melodic rendition of Blue Skies echoes through the hallway of Chapman’s Nursing Home, nurses the hallway. At the helm of the saxophone is an older hasten in and out of man in a black doorways. Patients Hawaiian shirt roam the halls in slowdotted with yellow rolling wheelchairs. The flowers, with a tuft rooms on either side of breezy white hair of the hallway have the atop his head. His same mustard wallpaper name is Thomas and faux-hardwood Gassaway, but he’s floors, most with the more commonly T.V. turned on loud. known around the Visitors could channel Lake Martin area as surf just by walking by Tommy G, or the at a leisurely pace and Lake Martin Saxman. listening. Gassaway has The elderly who played in more bands occupy these rooms than he can recall. are of various ages and He’s performed at physical condition. fraternity parties, in Those in the best health elegant hotels and at move around slowly and luxurious restaurants perhaps a little painfully across the Southeast. without a wheelchair, He’s released a and the worst are Christmas CD, stood bedridden for what in with musicians may be the rest of their from practically lives. Many patients – if everywhere and is not all – grapple with booked almost every losing the independence weekend for private they’ve enjoyed for most events around the of their lives. They rely lake area. He plays at on nurses to eat and wedding receptions, Sharing Smiles to change their clothes birthdays, holiday In addition to playing private parties, wedding receptions, parties and just and need assistance in holiday gigs and more, Tommy G plays twice a month at the bathroom. They about anywhere else local nursing homes, as he's done for the last 20 years. contend with aging people want to hear bodies and minds, and music. Gassaway’s life deal with physical and psychological pain that tends to revolves around music. only get worse. Here, a smile shared between strangers But two or three times a month, for the last 20 years, can go a long way, and a visit from a family member is he plays in the activity centers o nursing homes. a blessing. The walls in these open, square spaces with linoleum In a place where machines beep and trays clatter, the tile floors have been adorned in crucifixes of different 22 Lake Martin Living

sizes. In a wide semicircle around him, 15 or 20 elderly patients gather. They sit in wheelchairs and beds rolled in from their rooms, with cozy white blankets pulled up to their necks. “I actually get some surprisingly good acoustics in here,” Gassaway said, looking around the room. He plays songs by Sinatra, John Coltrane, The Beatles, Billie Holliday, Hank Williams, Elvis, The Drifters and hundreds of other artists. He tries to keep the songs relevant to the audience, playing jazz, old country, soul and oldies at nursing homes. Two ladies elbow each other and crack nostalgic smiles at the first notes a Duke Ellington song. The audience responses vary. Some sit motionless, staring at him blankly but tapping their feet every two measures or so. Others lean back in their wheelchairs with their hands folded across their laps, nostalgic grins stretched across their faces. One lady claps her frail hands together for the entire hour of the performance, her chin raised upward and her mouth wide open in a smile. To her left, another lady closes her eyes and bobs her head. “You’re always looking for somebody that’s enjoying the music,” Gassaway said. “That’s why any musician who’s any good plays. You can be with a crowd that’s ignoring you, but you’ve just got that one person that you know you’re connecting with.” Gassaway’s performances aren’t without their hitches. When playing for a group of people challenged by various degrees of ailments, there are going to be a few interruptions. Gassaway knows this, and he takes everything in stride. Throughout the entire performance, a woman in the back babbles loudly. Gassaway plays a little bit louder. Later, a man approaches him during a Frank Sinatra song. He stands maybe 2 feet away from the musician and stares for a long moment with a wide smile across his face. He reaches out to shake Gassaway’s hand. Saxophone in mouth, Gassaway cracks a smile and shakes the hand quickly before returning it the keys. The man pulls a long grin across his face and shuffles out of the room. It’s nothing new to Gassaway. He’s good humored and experienced enough to shrug off distractions. After 20 years of playing at various nursing homes and Veterans Affairs hospitals around Lake Martin, it’s no surprise he’s built up a tolerance for the unexpected. These performances cost him time, energy and money, just as his shows in swanky restaurants do. Even as an experienced musician, Gassaway still requires several hours each week to practice. He spends time researching backing tracks, and he pays money for the rights to use them. But when asked why he makes these sacrifices – and why he’s made them for the last 20 years – Gassaway doesn’t have much of an answer prepared. “I don’t really know what made me want to do it,” he said. “It just seemed like the thing to do.

“I might be living here soon. I might as well get a jump-start on making friends.” He cracks a smile so wide his eyes squint. He does it because he feels like he should. There’s a general, obscure sense of duty, and that’s about it. There’s no impactful story about having visited family members in nursing homes, no dramatic feelings of sorrow or pity for the patients, or some other clear, defined reason. And that seems to make his intentions more admirable. They feel purer. In being without an obvious motivation, Gassaway removes himself from the performance. What’s left are the patients who can enjoy a saxophone that sounds like silk in a place where live music is a rarity. “Good music takes you somewhere,” he said. “I try to bring that.” Gassaway’s final song, the same one he always plays at the end of each of these performances, is a New Orleans medley of Just a Closer Walk and When the Saints Go Marching In. The audience is lively. Everyone with the ability to do so bounces in their wheelchairs. They clap their hands and stomp their feet in time with the song as people begin to trickle out of the room, shuffling or rolling wheelchairs. There are always four or five people that line up after the show to shake Gassaway’s hand and tell him how much they appreciate his performance, and maybe update him on how their grandkids are doing. A lady stands up from her wheelchair and gives him a hug. Her eyes are bright, and she smiles a big, toothy smile at Gassaway. He smiles one right back.

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~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm. 24 Lake Martin Living

Chicken Dressing

Tradition, Comfort and Southern

or years past and generations to come, chicken and dressing has summoned our family to the Thanksgiving table, satisfying appetites and nourishing souls. This beloved and timehonored dish is full of cherished memories, a heartwarming family favorite, and the source of genuinely unforgettable meals. For many families, this dish takes center stage for the holiday season, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s filled with tender chicken and a flavorful cornbread dressing, creating irresistible aromas and comforting flavors. Chicken and dressing is not just a side dish served alongside the turkey; it’s a tradition that brings family together, one heartfelt memory at a time. Undoubtedly, this dressing is a favorite, drawing everyone back for seconds. It makes me wonder: Why do I only cook this during the holidays? This dressing is perfect for all special occasions, offering a delightful reminder that life is worth celebrating with every savory forkful. This classic dish offers endless opportunities for creativity and personalization, allowing you to add your unique touch to the recipe. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors to create a chicken and dressing dish that suits your taste preferences. This recipe is a Gina Abernathy testament to combining simple ingredients to create a satisfying and tasty dish. This Thanksgiving, cherish the love, the warmth, the togetherness and the family time where generations come together to celebrate traditions and create new ones. Make chicken and dressing the centerpiece of your table as a reminder that family and good food make every occasion truly special.

GOOD EATS

Cornbread Ingredients

This cornbread recipe makes one skillet. I usually make two skillets of cornbread and use one and a half skillets of crumbled cornbread for this dressing recipe. 1 egg, beaten 2 cups cornmeal 2 cups buttermilk 1/4 cup oil

Chicken and Dressing Ingredients

I like to use chicken thighs and breasts for this recipe. I

use a family pack of thighs and two to three breasts. 1 package of eight to 10 chicken thighs or 1 package chicken breast (about six). Boil, skin, debone, chop. 1 onion, large and diced 1 stick butter, melted 1 10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup 6 eggs, beaten 1-1/2 cups milk cornbread 2 quarts chicken broth salt and pepper to taste

Cornbread Directions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Grease a cast iron skillet or baking pan with oil and place in the oven to heat. Meanwhile, mix up the cornbread batter. Beat egg in a medium bowl. Add cornmeal, buttermilk and oil. Stir well. Pour batter into heated skillet and place back in the oven. Cook for about 25 minutes or until golden brown on the top. Remove from the oven and turn out onto a plate to cool. You will need to make two pans of cornbread. Set aside.

Chicken and Dressing Directions

While the cornbread is baking, boil the chicken. Cool, skin, debone and chop the chicken. Save broth. Crumble cornbread in a large pan or bowl. I use two bowls because there is so much to mix up. Add chopped onion, melted butter, cream of mushroom soup, eggs, milk and diced chicken. Pour in enough broth to make the mixture thin. You don’t want it too soupy, but you do want it thin. I usually use close to 2 quarts. Salt and Pepper to taste. Pour into one or two casserole dishes and bake at 450 degrees until brown on top, about 45 minutes to one hour. If you are cooking this in one pan, it may take up to an hour. Just keep an eye on it, and when the top begins to brown, remove it from the oven and allow it to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving. Note: I use an extra- large and deep 13-inch by 9-inch by 3.5-inch casserole dish.

Recipe Tips

n Prep all the ingredients the day before and store them in the refrigerator to ensure a smooth meal preparation. n If desired, use some of your favorite seasonings and herbs. Sage, rosemary and poultry seasoning add more flavor to the dish. n Swap out the chicken for turkey. Lake Martin Living 25

Christmas with Friends STORY BY BEN SMITH

cott Blake and his band, the Fireball Singers and the Modulators, are preparing for another Christmas concert. They raised almost $10,000 last year for three separate organizations. This year, the concert will benefit Tallapoosa Aid to People in Alexander City, the Care House in Sylacauga and the Elmore County Food Pantry in Wetumpka. The group will perform Dec. 1 at the Civic Center in Wetumpka; Dec. 14 at Central Alabama Community College in Alexander City; and Dec. 18 at First Baptist Church in Sylacauga. All events will begin at 6:30 p.m. The band is an eclectic assortment of old college friends from CACC choir and musical theatre clubs. They are mostly people who have grown up together, many having sat in the same elementary classrooms. After college, they went their separate ways. One man now works as an NCAA referee, and another sings professionally with the Righteous Brothers. A third member is a fire chief in Wetumpka. Most of the band members have children now, and some have grandchildren. The concerts are free, but donations are encouraged. As a board member for the nonprofit Meals on Wheels, Blake has seen how important an extra $2,000 to $3,000 can be for

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local charitable Together Again Third from back right, organizations. Scott Blake gathers “It’s a great with friends for another Christmas present Christmas concert for around this time,” local charities. said Blake. “It’s something that these organizations don’t have in their budgets. They don’t know it’s coming. They don’t know how much they’re getting. Typically, they don’t know we’re even going to do anything for them until a month before when we announce it on our fliers.” Last year, over 900 people attended the three concerts. Blake hopes to see an even greater turnout this year. The concerts began when a choir reunion in 2018 reignited the chemistry among the group. “We enjoy singing with a group of like-minded people,” said Blake. “We come from all different parts of the three- or four-county area, and we all do different things, but when we’re up on stage, we’re connected for an hour and a half.” In 2021, the group reunited once more to perform the “Christmas with Friends” Christmas concert. According to Blake, the group chemistry was just like it was in college. “We’re all in our late 50s now, and it’s like we

just dropped back into 1986 again. And we’re right back joking, cutting up with each other,” he said. Last year was a special year for Blake. The concert began as it always did. Blake stood on the stage with a microphone in hand, speaking swiftly and gracefully, walking back and forth like a stand-up comedian. He introduced the musicians: seven other singers and a four-piece band consisting of a bass guitar, piano, drums and lead guitar. The group sang classic Christmas songs like Mary Did You Know and It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Blake incited some banter between each song, and the audience laughed along raucously. But before the last song, Blake paused. “I’ve got to get personal real quick.” “Y’all know my daddy ain’t been doing well the past year,” he said. “And we didn’t think he could be here tonight.” Blake pointed to the back of the auditorium where there sat an old man in an ambulance gurney. A green blanket was pulled up to his waist. Clear tubes ran from his nostrils. He’d been

confined to his bed for the better part of a year, his body swollen, fatigued and weak. But instead of spending his final days in his room, he found the strength to be present at his son’s charity concert. “So, make sure you go over and rub his bald head and tell him, ‘good to see you,’” said Blake, running his hand over his own bald head. The band struck up, and the choir joined in with the last song of the evening: Christmas in Dixie. The keyboard outlined chords with elegant efficiency. The drums were steady and temperate. The guitar sneaked through between phrases with subtle riffs. And the eight-piece choir of altos, sopranos, tenors and basses let loose full-bodied melodies and lyrics of snowy New York and peaceful Atlanta. The night concluded. Two weeks later, Blake’s father passed away. “It meant everything,” said Blake, as he watched a video of the concert. The camera panned over to his father, sitting in his gurney. Blake sat silent for a moment and smiled. The “Christmas with Friends” concert is personal for both the band and the community.

Lake Martin Living 27

Get ready for the holidays Preparation is key to avoid overspending Plan ahead and be flexible.

Planning is also going to help you get the most bang for your buck. It’s only November, so you still have time. Start marking down holiday deals you see, saving virtual coupons and maybe even be ready for Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales. The more planning, the easier it’s going to be to stick to your budget. The worst thing you can do is go into a mall without a plan.

Don’t forget about other holiday expenses.

t’s that time of the year again. The weather is cooling down. The air feels lighter, and stores across Alabama are selling holiday decorations and gifts in earnest. For most, this is exciting, but if your finances aren’t in order, sometimes holiday spending can get out of control. I tell my customers they can avoid holiday debt with good preparation. Here are four tips to help get you through the holiday shopping season. I’ve also included a bonus tip that might be a lifesaver for your finances.

Create a realistic budget and stick to it.

A realistic budget will help you spend wisely while strolling through those holiday markets. I recommend setting a budget per person and sticking to it. You may want to spend more on your mom than your cousin, and that’s okay, but writing down what you anticipate spending will help set parameters for your gifts. And planning will help make sure you don’t break the bank.

Use your banking app to stay on track.

Setting your per-person budget was the first step: Now you must stick to it. Most banks have great tools within their apps to help you stick to a budget. It may be oldfashioned, but I use a spreadsheet to keep track. Across the top, I put my total budget; then, I break it down per person, per line. This way, as I spend I can subtract the amount I spend and also write down the gift. If I spend a little less, I can even adjust my budget in real-time.

28 Lake Martin Living

While budgeting for gifts is important, don’t forget about the other costs that come with the holidays. Are you attending a party that needs a white-elephant gift or a special holiday dish? Maybe you’re the host, which means spending money on food and drink. Knowing what you plan to do for the holidays ahead of time will help you factor that into your budget. Now here’s that bonus tip I mentioned earlier: Use a credit card to keep your finances secure. Most cards offer fraud protection and travel insurance benefits that could be valuable if a card is lost or stolen. A credit card also could help you track your spending and keep your budget on track if a spreadsheet isn’t your style. In addition to these features, credit cards could offer money-saving perks and budgeting tools. Be sure to check with your bank to see if they offer any no-interest or rewards for holiday spending. Lori Harrell Remember, the holidays are a time to splurge and spend some of the money you’ve worked hard for, but planning, setting a budget and using your bank’s resources will help you do it without breaking the bank.

MONEY MATTERS

~ Lori Harrell is retail market manager over the Mill Square Branch in Alexander City and the Dadeville Branch in Dadeville. She’s been in banking for 33 years in the Tallapoosa County area.

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Lake Martin Living 29

Dadeville sings out STORY BY BEN SMITH

t’s a smalltown choir, comprised of 40-or-so singers, aged 59 and up, each with a voice smooth as laundered silk. Officially, they are called the Dadeville Community Chorus, but the singers come from all around Lake Martin: Alexander City, Camp Hill, Jackson’s Gap, Union Springs. Opportunities to sing in a choir outside of a church are few and far between, and these vocalists are pleased to perform songs they don’t get to sing syn Sunday services. Around Christmastime, they sing The Nutcracker. They sing Jingle Bells and Somewhere in My Memory, and a few pop favorites, as well. They value their choir, the sense of community it brings and the chance for self-expression through music. “I love our little chorus. I’m proud of it,” said Jamie Hutcherson, director of the Dadeville Community Chorus. “I enjoy the fellowship and getting to be with other people that enjoy music and like to sing.” “Some of our members have sung at a lot of different places; others have not,” said Dianne Miller, the choir’s president. “But there’s a place for anybody who

30 Lake Martin Living

just likes to sing.” And this year, that singular, spacious sound of 30 or so men and women has taken on a lighter quality. Singing alongside this group of grandparents and retirees are 10 boys from Southern Preparatory Academy, aged 12 to 17. “It’s nice. It keeps you young. They’re lively,” said Miller, laughing. “It’s a good feeling to think that perhaps you’re mentoring someone. It teaches them something they can do their whole lives.” There’s a difference of 65 years between the oldest and youngest members of the choir. According to Miller, it’s evidence that chorus singing is a pastime to be enjoyed throughout one’s life. “We got one fella who sings in a church choir. He sings in a barbershop quartet. He sings in a rhythm and blues group, and he’s 77 years old,” said Hutcherson. But apart from the youthful energy the Southern Preparatory Academy boys bring to the group, and apart from the wisdom imparted by the more experienced members, these boys’ presence gives the rest of the choir hope. It gives them hope for a legacy. Hope that the organization they

love, the one in which they’ve invested so much time, will continue long after they’ve stopped singing. “Your voice is like anything else you possess,” said Hutcherson. “As you get older, it changes, and you get to the point where, one day, you won’t be able to sing as well, or hold out as long. If we can get the younger people interested in it, and they want to be there a long time, we know the chorus will be there for a while, even after a lot of us aren’t.” In recent years, Dadeville has turned its attention toward the arts. The town of under 3,000 people has an active performing arts center, where the community chorus practices. Raining Dogs Art Studio and Everything’s Art have served to bolster the artistic presence in the city, highlighting works of local painters, designers and photographers.

Musicians perform at Spreading Joy A contingent of the local restaurants during Dadeville Community the Songwriters Festival Chorus at last spring's in July. patriotic concert. The This community choir now includes 30 choir is more than the members aged from sum of its parts. It’s a 10 years and up. component of a larger picture, an example of the city forging a new, adolescent identity through its arts. A new generation of choir members not only serves the chorus, but the city as a whole.

Lake Martin Living 31

Stop Smoking

tep away from that cigarette. The Great American Smokeout is Nov. 16. Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the event is an opportunity for smokers to go 24 hours without a cigarette. Because if you can go 24 hours, then maybe you can go 48 or even 72 hours without a smoke. Keep adding smoke-free days to your streak, and before you know it, you’ve gone a month. They say it takes 30 days to form a habit. Going smoke-free could be your new habit, or as we say in healthcare (so we can charge you for it), your lifestyle modification. Or maybe you make it just 24 hours before the siren call of nicotine draws you back into her lair, but at least you would be smoke-free for a day. Tobacco is the No. 1 cause of lung cancer, which is the deadliest cancer, accounting for more than 127,000 deaths each year in the U.S.A. But tobacco is implicated in other cancers as well, like oral, throat, esophageal, bladder, pancreatic, stomach, liver, colon and cervical cancers. But wait, there’s more. Tobacco is also implicated in heart disease, stroke, emphysema, diabetes and erectile dysfunction. All told, tobacco accounts for around 480,000 deaths each year in the United States and 7 million deaths worldwide. I know, some of you guys are still stuck on ED. Hey, if that’s what it takes to get you to quit smoking … Cigarette smoking peaked in the U.S. in 1954, when 45 percent of the population smoked. As of 2021, that number dropped significantly to 11.5 percent of the population, but that’s still 28.3 million adult smokers. 32 Lake Martin Living

The Great American Smokeout is an opportunity to draw attention to the issue, and it’s also an opportunity to provide moral support to those wishing to kick the habit. The Great American Smokeout is a good start, but if you’re serious about kicking the habit, you’re going to need help. You can find it through the American Lung Association’s toll-free help line, 1-800-LUNGUSA, or the CDC Quit Line, 1-800 -QUITNOW. You also could talk with your doctor about medications that could help you quit. In addition to nicotine patches, gum, lozenges and nasal sprays, there are two prescription medicines, Chantix and Zyban, that have proven effective in smoking cessation. While you’re talking with your doctor about quitting smoking, ask her or him about lung cancer screening. You qualify for annual lung cancer screening if you are between 50 and 80 years old and currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years and have a history of smoking a pack a day for 20 years or two packs per day for 10 years. Low dose computed tomography (CT or LDCT) scans are used to screen for lung cancer. The radiation exposure of LDCT is about one-fifth of the radiation from a regular CT. Lung cancer screening with LDCT has been shown to reduce lung cancer deaths by 20 percent. Because LDCT is recommended by the United States Preventative Services Task Force, commercial insurances are required to cover the test at 100 percent. Medicare also covers the test, and while Medicaid is not required to cover LDCT, every state Medicaid program except Alabama offers some level of coverage. If you want to get screened George Miranda but don’t have insurance, or if you have Alabama Medicaid, you can ask for a cash price option. Russell Medical offers the LDCT for $148 if paying cash. You also could wait until our annual heart calcium scoring CT promotion and pay $99. You’ll get a read on your heart health, and if the scan shows any incidental findings in your lungs, those are reported as well.

MEDICAL NEWS

Currently, 14.2 million Americans qualify for LDCT by the USPSTF recommendations, but only 5.8 percent of these folks take advantage of this life-saving opportunity, even though it’s covered by health insurance (except Alabama Medicaid) and is relatively affordable (as far as health care goes) if you’re not insured. And even if you can’t afford it, we can find ways to pay for the scan. Since November is also Lung Cancer Awareness Month, let me tell you about the good news in lung cancer. At the beginning of this article, I mentioned how many people will die this year from smoking-related diseases. The overall five-year survival rate for lung cancer is 28 precent. That’s because before the advent of CT-based lung cancer screening, most lung cancers weren’t discovered until they were incurable. LDCT has changed all that. Smokers and ex-smokers who participate in annual lung screening find their cancer at earlier stages, when the five-year survival rate is 73 percent or better. Localized lung lesions often can be cured with surgery. For patients who can’t have surgery, perhaps because they also have emphysema or other lung

diseases, a new radiation therapy procedure called SBRT (stereotactic body radiotherapy) could produce cure rates comparable to surgery with just five sessions of highdose radiation pinpointed to the tumor. That service is available right here in Alexander City, by the way. For patients whose lung cancer has spread, new treatments targeted at genetic mutations carried by some lung cancers have extended survival far beyond what it used to be. And another new class of drugs, called immune checkpoint inhibitors, supe up the body’s own immune system to make a goal-line stand against the cancer. Patients who would have survived fewer than six months just a decade ago are now living for years on these miracle drugs. But it all starts with putting down that cigarette. ~ George Miranda is the Director of the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center.

Lake Martin Living 33

Mean Girls

Tuesday, November 28 Wednesday, November 29 7 p.m. broadway series

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis Big Band Holidays Thursday, December 7 7 p.m. celebrity series

Simone Dinnerstein The Eye Is the First Circle Friday, January 26 7 p.m. orchestra & chamber music series

My Fair Lady

Tuesday, February 6 Wednesday, February 7 7 p.m. broadway series

View our complete 2023–24 season calendar online.

34 Lake Martin Living

OH SNAP! 1

2 5

Cotton Festival Saturday, October 14, 2023 Downtown Eclectic 1. Robin Harper 2. Olivia Fannin

3. Ealyn Dickey and Evie Bastian 4. Annalee Shaw 5. Ashton Sapp and Camillo with Little Richard 6. Michael Yundt 7. Carleigh and Caden Thornton 8. Leon Woods 9. Ashley Arnold, Marge West and Marilyn Hawkins 10. Wanda, Elizabeth and Eleanor Flournoy

Lake Martin Living 35

OH SNAP! 1

Everything's Art Saturday, October 14, 2023 Pennington Park 1. Kay Fincher 2. Misty Woods 3. Adam Marano

4. Kurt and Leigh Pfitzner 5. Elora and Sunnie Mann and Brittany Christopher

6. Mac Campbell and Magnolia Bradshaw with Bowen 36 Lake Martin Living

OH SNAP! 3

Dadeville Fall Festival Saturday, October 7, 2023 Downtown Dadeville 1. Madolyn Daniel and Charleigh and Ashley Noles 2. Titan 3. Dana and Randall McLendon 4. Patti Harris and Elaine and Mickey Forbus 5. Arlean Wyckoff, Shirley and Rod Taylor 6. Malakia Holston, Scott Fuller and Mia and Lea Lockheart 7. Terri Brooks, Russel Couch, David Whitman and Anthony Stellarini 8. Sean, Ava, Ana and Asher Medley

Lake Martin Living 37

OH SNAP! 1

Sean of the South Thursday, October 12, 2023 Betty Carol Graham Center 1. Tammi Montgomery and Henry Foy 2. Lindsay Cline and Harrison Waits 3. Dotti Blair and Glen Zorn 4. Janet Holmes and Lisa and Rush McKelvey 5. Brenda and Joe Croley 6. Linda Gunn, Ellen Gregg and Beverly Howard

38 Lake Martin Living

OH SNAP! 1

6 5

United Way Fashion Show Thursday, October 26, 2023 7

Alexander City 1. Leanne Calhoon, Laurie Sturdivant and Scott Blake 2. Pete Taylor, Paige Patterson and Stephanie and David Chunn. 3. Cameron McDaniel, Mary Boos and Glenda Manning

4. Daniel Meiss and Bren Mahan 5. Ed Oliver, Darlene Meadows and Anne Clement 6. Kathy McKeen and Joyce Reeves 7. Andrea Jones and Sherry Willis

Lake Martin Living 39

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Start the holiday celebration at Russell Crossroads From visits with Santa to holiday decorations, gifts and festive atmosphere, there are plenty of reasons to visit the annual Christmas at Crossroads and Holiday Bazaar event at Russell Crossroads Nov. 24. Make sure the kids have their Christmas lists ready because Santa will visit from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. While they’re waiting to chat with Santa, you could check out the huge display of handmade goods offered at the Holiday Bazaar and maybe even finish your gift shopping early.

40 Lake Martin Living

This year’s bazaar will feature many of your favorite regional vendors with jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, candles, lotions, exquisite decorations and more. The bazaar will open under the big tent at 9 a.m. and stay open until 4 p.m. There will be arts and crafts for the children to make and games for them to play. For more information, contact Sydnee Riley at 256-212-1431, or email her at sriley@russelllands.com.

Nov. 17 & 18

Wait Until Dark Auditions

ACT II will hold auditions for Frederick Knott's thriller, Wait Until Dark, at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 17 and at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18, at 216 Tallapoosa St. in Alexander City. Parts are available for six men, one woman and one early teen-aged girl. Rehearsals will begin after Jan. 1. Performances will be held in March at Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium. For information, call director Rob Iler at 256-794-5103.

Nov. 18

4k The Wellness Way

Join the Lake Martin Wellness Center in a 4k fun run on the Historic Dadeville Trail. Entry fee is $30, and all ages are welcome. T-shirts will be available to pre-registered participants on the day of the race. Race begins at 9 a.m. Call 256-825-2304 for more information.

Nov. 18

Tommy’s Improv Playhouse

Join the fun as this improv comedy troupe from East Alabama presents a family-friendly evening show at 6:30 p.m. at Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com for ticket information.

Nov. 18

Orienteering

The Vulcan Orienteering Club will host an orienteering course activity from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Wind Creek State Park. Using a detailed map and a compass, participants will locate and visit control sites to complete the course with their best time. Participants must pay a small fee to enter the park. Visit vulcanorienteering.org for more information.

Nov. 27 thru Jan. 6

Pennington Park Light Show

Park displays will be lit nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Event will include a display of a full-sized Christmas sleigh and a visit from Santa himself. A North Pole mailbox will receive special delivery mail for Santa. Every letter will receive a personalized response from Santa, stamped with Rudolph’s hoofmark.

Nov. 27

LAKE REGION EVENTS

Tree Lighting Concert

Gather at 4:30 p.m. in Dadeville’s Pennington Park for a tree lighting ceremony and performance by the Dadeville Community Chorus.

Dec. 1-3

A Christmas Carol Live Radio Play

Alexander City Theatre II will present a radio play rendition of Charles Dickens' classic holiday tale with a script written by Joe Landry. Performances will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 1 and Dec. 2 and at 2 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Betty Carol Graham Center stage on the Central Alabama Community College campus in Alexander City. Admission is free.

Dec. 1

The Bev and Band Concert

Dadeville Performing Arts Center will host this musical event at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com or $15 at the door.

Dec. 3

Dadeville Christmas Parade

There will be vendors and activities in downtown Dadeville before the Spirit of a Hometown Christmas Parade takes to the streets at 3 p.m.

Dec. 4

Alexander City Christmas Parade

‘Fairytale Christmas’ is the theme for the annual Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade. Find your spot along the route early, so you have a good seat. The parade starts at 6 p.m. Visit alexcitychamber.com for details.

Dec. 5

Fall/Holiday Concert

The Dadeville Community Chorus will perform their annual holiday concert at 7 p.m. at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $10 in advance at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com. or $15 at the door.

Dec. 9

Harbor Pointe Ugly Sweater Christmas Party

The Annual Ugly Sweater Christmas Party will be held Dec. 9th from 6 p.m.

to 10 p.m. Ugly sweater contest, special holiday drinks, DJ, and more.

Dec. 14

Music in the Air at Zazu’s Verandah

Get in the spirit of Christmas from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. as jazz virtuoso David Jones performs a free concert in The Listening Room. Zazu’s Verandah will offer beverages for purchase.

Dec. 14 & 15

Karaoke Christmas

Dadeville Performing Arts Center will host performances of a children’s Christmas choral collection at 7 p.m. This lively 30-minute musical will be presented by local children and directed by Elaine Forbus. Tickets are $10 in advance at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com. or $15 at the door.

Dec. 16

Paint Your Pet

Relax from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hamilton Place and get inspired for a night of painting alongside Pursell Farms’ Resident Artist Vaughan Pursell Spanjer. Enjoy a selection of wines and a delicious dinner created by Executive Chef Joe Truex. Paint pre-drawn versions of your pet as Vaughan and fellow professional artists assist with paint selections and expert guidance. Call 256-208-2040 to book your spot.

Dec. 19

“Real Bells” Hand Bells Ensemble Concert

Led by Carol Bonebrake, this large ensemble will perform Christmas music and other selections to ring out the holiday season at 6:30 p.m. at Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $10 in advance at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com or $15 at the door.

Season-long Events LMYP Game Night

Every third Thursday of the month, grab your crew and meet at The Local at 41 Main in downtown Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for games, laughs and LMYP drink specials. It’s free to play the games, and the grand prize is always $50. Visit the Lake Martin Young Professionals Facebook page for more information. Lake Martin Living 41

LAKE REGION EVENTS Elementary Musical Theatre

Now through Dec. 15, Dadeville Performing Arts will host afterschool singing, dancing and acting workshops from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for third through sixth grade students every Monday. Text or email Elaine Balint Forbus at 256-749-7932 or elaine.balint@gmail.com. Enroll and complete permission forms at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com/ Classes. No fees for Tallapoosa County children.

Stillwaters Dog Fight Golf

Join golfers of all ages and abilities at Stillwaters Golf Course 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.

Lake Martin Civitan Club

The Lake Martin Civitan Club meets at noon in the private room at JR’s Grill in Alexander City, on the second Thursday of each month. For more information, call Audrey Moore at 256-786-0465.

Everything’s Art Classes

From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on alternate Tuesdays, children in grades three through five will learn the elements of art as they complete projects in class with Everything’s Art teachers. Enroll and complete permission forms at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com/ classes. No fees for Tallapoosa County children. Email Delaine Hanson at delaine.hanson@gmail.com for details.

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. Annual club dues are $20.

Alexander City Lions Club

Serving 27 local charities in Tallapoosa County, the Alexander City Lions Club meets at 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of each month at Lake Martin Area United Way office on Main Street. A meal is provided at the 42 Lake Martin Living

second meeting of the month, which features an engaging speaker. For more information, contact Mae Lynn O’Neil at 256-750-7404.

Rhythm-Antics

Join this music exploration course from 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. on Thursdays at Dadeville Performing Arts Center with Kim Walls. For all levels and ages, this class will teach students to read, write, play, sing and move to music rhythms, using a variety of instruments such as percussion, recorders and hand bells. No materials necessary. Email kim.walls@ dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

Lake Martin Creativity

This group meets every Monday at 1 p.m. in the downstairs community room at the Stillwaters Residential Building. Anyone interested in arts and crafts is encouraged to join. Bring something to work on, or come see what others are doing. A monthly fee of $5 is charged to help pay for the use of the space. For more information, contact Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506.

Fiber Fridays

Bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint, embroidery and other fiber art projects to The Yarn Shop Around the Corner in Dadeville from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fridays to meet fellow fiber artisans, share tips and techniques and talk with others who share your interests. Call 334-444-1038 for more information.

Millerville Trade Day

Bibb Graves School on State Route 9 hosts this trade day on the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m with free outside setup for vendors, yard sale, flea market and swap meet items (no food vendors). Donations from sales to BGHS Alumni and Friends Association would be appreciated. There will be a designated area to bring vehicles for sale with $20 donation to BGHSAFA upon sale. For information, contact Bruce Lowery at 205-522-5794.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on State Route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater,

the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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.

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

This group meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your lunch or a snack, sewing projects, machines and questions.

Santuck Flea Market

The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month at 7300 Central Plank Rd., State Route 9 in Wetumpka.

Real Island Supper

The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room in Equality. Everyone is welcome. Admission is $3 per adult; bring a covered dish to share. Some nights are themed, so call ahead to find out if costumes or certain types of food are in order. Contact Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724.

Amateur Radio Club

The Lake Martin Area Amateur Radio Club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Senior Activity Center at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City, with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. For more information, contact Michael Courtney at 256-825-7766 or Mike Smith at 256-750-5710.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

Naturalist Marianne fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl. There’s never a dull moment. Visit RussellLands.com/blog/events for dates, times and subject matter.

Trivia Night at Niffer’s on the Lake

Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts a trivia night at 7 p.m. Winners receive Niffer’s gift cards. First place receives $40; second place $25; and third place $15. Grab a group of friends and come out for a night of games. A bonus question is posted on the Niffer’s Facebook page at 2 p.m. Thursdays.

Equality Performing Arts Center Open Mic Night

The Equality Performing Arts Center invites all musicians to its monthly jam sessions on the second Friday of each month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. There is no cover, but donations are greatly appreciated. There will be an intermission for snacks, and people are encouraged to bring a dish to share. The EPAC is located at 560 state Route 9 in Equality. For more information, visit the EPAC Facebook page.

Equality VFD Cookout and Bake Sale

At 8 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month, the Equality Volunteer Fire Department hosts a bake sale. Lunch is served starting at 10:30 a.m. at the old Masonic Lodge in Equality. Ror more information, email Richard Penton at drichardpenton@gmail.com.

Equality Neighborhood Watch The Equality Neighborhood Watch Association meets on the second Tuesday of each month at the old Masonic Lodge at 6:30 p.m. During the colder months, it meets at Equality Methodist Church on state Route 259. Email Richard Penton at drichardpenton@gmail.com for more information.

FEELING THE CALL OF FALL? MAKE SURE YOUR HEART IS HEALTHY As the heat of summer fades and cooler temperatures come calling, we look forward to that feeling of fall. It’s the perfect time to be outdoors with family and friends, and a great time to be alive. Make sure your heart is ready for the season with an appointment at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Russell Medical. Kevin Sublett, MD, is board-certified in cardiovascular care and offers the latest in prevention, testing, and treatment for keeping your heart healthy. Our clinic is backed by the knowledge and expertise of UAB Medicine, including: • Advanced ultrasound testing • Nuclear medicine imaging in fully accredited labs • Management of cardiac rhythm disorders • Interventional cardiology care Our expanded clinical team is ready to serve you. Schedule a visit today by calling 256-234-2644.

Tallassee Lions Club

The Tallassee Lions Club meets from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday at Cozumel Restaurant, across from the football stadium. Join for an hour of humor, information, civic pride and patriotism. For information, email at marilyn.speake@tcschools.com or call Marilyn Speake at 334-283-6864.

HEART & VASCULAR CLINIC AT RUSSELL MEDICAL 3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 • Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 234-2644 • uabmedicine.org/HeartRussell

Lake Martin Living 43

GOLDVILLE 280

GOODWATER

Legend

To Sylacauga

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

Public Boat Ramps

NEW SIT

Churches

★ Points of Interest

280

Power lines

Timbergut Landing

U.S. Highways

280

County Roads

14 22

ALEXANDER CITY

★

Camp ASCCA

★

Alex City Boat Ramp

Charles E. Bailey Sportplex

ROCKFORD

Hors Na

Jaybird Landing

49 128

COOSA COUNTY

★ New Hope Church 9

★Smith Landing

Camp Alamisco

★

Kowaliga Boat Landing

★ Camp Kiwanis

Trillium

Children’s Harbor

★ The Amp 18 ★

Ko w

ali

2 Ba

23 49

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

1 12

Church in The Pines

Smith Mountain Fire Tower

10 11

DAD

Willow Point

EQUALITY SEMAN

★

Young’s Island

Liberty Church

280

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Peanut Point

259

231

Creek ★ Wind Boat Ramp

JACKSONS GAP

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

Chimney Rock

Stillwaters 22

Union Landing

★

19 6

WALNUT HILL

24 21

UNION

CENTRAL

Martin Dam

RED HILL

★

63 229

SANTUCK

ECLECTIC 13 KENT

ELMORE COUNTY

Reeltown

120

231

14 14

TALLASSEE WETUMPKA 44 Lake Martin Living

229

MACON COUNTY

Explore

DAVISTON 22

Lake Martin

★

seshoe Bend ational Park

CHAMBERS COUNTY

DEVILLE 16

N Y

CAMP HILL

280

WAVERLY 50

Kowaliga Marina

334-857-2111

The Ridge Marina

256-397-1300

River North Marina

256-397-1500

Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700

5 Real Island Marina

334-857-2741

6 Blue Creek Marina

256-825-8888

7 Parker Creek Marina

256-329-8550

8 Harbor Pointe Marina

256-825-0600

9 Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's

256-444-8793

10 SpringHouse

256-215-7080

11 Catherine’s Market

256-215-7070

12 Kowaliga Restaurant

256-215-7035

13 Acapulco Mexican Gril

334-283-2725

14 Russell Do It Center (Alex City)

256-234-2567

15 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic)

334-541-2132

16 Russell Building Supply

256-825-4256

17 The Stables at Russell Crossroads

256-794-1333

18 Kowaliga Whole Health

334-857-1816

19 Aronov Realty Lake Martin

256-825-4133

20 Off the Beaton Path

205-994-0847

21 Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage

334-391-0717

22 Creekside Lodge

256-307-1440

23 Red Ridge UMC

256-825-9820

24 Lake Pointe Baptist Church

256-373-3293

25 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc

334-857-2443

26 Docks Unlimited LLC

256-203-8400

27 Dixie Sailing Club 28 Lakeshore Pharmacy

LEE COUNTY

256-825-0063

Your Lake Martin Sightseeing Pass. Scan me! LOACHAPOKA 14

NOTASULGA 85 81

Get on the Map! 256-234-4281

Lake Martin Living 45

DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE! Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy. ALEXANDER CITY Robinson Iron A & M Plumbing Carlos The Body Shop Walgreens Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Jake's Moore Wealth Management Carlisle's Emporium Wine Cloud Nine Downtown Girl Shay Aesthetics JR'S Hillabee Towers Senior Nutrition Center Noel Boone George Hardy First Realty Dark Insurance Warren Appliance MainStreet Family Care Grace's Flowers Koon's Korner Larry's General Merchandise Daylight Donuts Alfa Valley Bank - 280 Pricare Temple Medical AllState BB&T Bank Hometown Pharmacy Lake Martin Home Health Allen's Food Mart (Exxon) Karen Channell - State Farm Insurance North Lake Condo River Bend Store River North Marina Lake Martin Building Supply Petro

HOT TIP

Sho'Nuff BBQ Hair Design Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture Longleaf Antique Mall Playhouse Cinemas Chamber of Commerce Winn Dixie Re/Max Around the Lake City Hall A&E Metal Regions Bank Marathon - 280 Renfroe's Market Russell Medical Center Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors Koon's II Tallapoosa Ford Dylan Johnson - Country Financial Holley's Home Furniture Jackson's Drugs Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark The Sure Shot Shell - 280 Big B Bar-B-Que Russell Do It Center Russell Home Decor Holman Floor Satterfield Inc. Grain & Leaf, Bottles & Cigars Tippy Canoe Love Lake Martin Real Estate Office Wind Creek Gate Wind Creek Store Willow Point Office Willow Point Country Club Smith Marina Nails Kowaliga Marina Children's Harbor Catherine's Market Russell Lands Corporate Office Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center

STORY IDEA

SpringHouse Ridge Club Ridge Marina HACKNEYVILLE Hackneyville Water Authority NEW SITE Piggly Wiggly - New Site Foodland DADEVILLE Chamber of Commerce Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery Root 49 Salon Ellaby Boutique, LLC Alabama Power Siggers Siggers Barbershop Fusion Cafe Dadeville Library At the Beauty Shop Dadeville Courthouse Payne's Furniture PNC Bank Valley Bank McKelvey Chevrolet Renfroe's Market Foshee's Boat Doc Lakeshore Pharmacy Russell Building Supply Lakay's Tallapoosa Nutrition Sweet Pickins Century 21 - Rhonda Gaskins Farmers & Merchants Bank Jim's Pharmacy Poplar Dawgs Still Waters Country Club Still Waters Home Association Russell Lands Realty Fuller Realty Harbor Pointe Oskar's Aronov Realty Lake Martin Creekside Lodge Blue Creek Marina

Lakeside Marina Niffers Hwy 50 Eagle Millstone Japanese Maple Nursery Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Chuck's Marina Deep Water Docks Lake Martin Pizza CAMP HILL Link Gas Station EQUALITY Five Star Plantation Equality Food Mart Southern Star Parker Creek Marina Charles Borden ECLECTIC Lake Breeze Realty Offshore Marina Lake Martin Mini Mall Corner Stone Coffee Co. Lake Martin Dock Company Cotton's Alabama Barbecue Russell Do It Center Johnson Furniture WOW Catering LLC Eclectic Library Real Island Marina Anchor Bay Marina Wetumpka Wetumpka Herald Office Tallassee Marathon Tallassee Eagle Tallassee Chamber Parris Mullins Jr. O.D. Get Lake Martin Living delivered to your mailbox for just $50 per year. To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

NEWS EVENT WORTHY DETAILS

PLAY BALL

Do you have a great idea for a story or a big event happening? We are ALL EARS! Call 256-234-4281 or email Editor@alexcityoutlook.com. 46 Lake Martin Living

usbank.com/mortgage

From vacant lot to your future home, find help along the way. You’ve found the perfect lot to build your next home. We’ll help you explore financing options that may fit your needs. Enjoy competitive rates, experienced support and step-by-step guidance that may make your dream of homeownership a reality. Loan options for those approved: Lot loans* Purchase a lot to build now or in the near future and get financing with no prepayment penalties.

*Standard maximum of 10 acres; however parcels not exceeding 20 acres may be considered if typical for the area and supported by acceptable appraisal valuation. Lot loans are not intended for investment or speculation purposes. Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loans amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage, Home Equity and Credit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2019 U.S. Bank 257701c 10/19

Construction loans Get financing that includes your construction loan and your mortgage – all in one. That’s one closing and one set of fees. Plus, make interest only payments during the construction of your home. Choose from fixed- or adjustable-rate construction loan options. Geoff Hall Mortgage Loan Officer 404.267.7775 office 404.662.6604 cell geoff.hall@usbank.com NMLS #: 544471

Lake Martin Living 47

AD INDEX Alexander Landscaping ..................................................................... 3 4

Lake Martin Vascular.......................................................................... 1 2

Azalea Cove Waterside...................................................................... 2 1

Lauriello Realty and Development...................................................... 5 1

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

Lee Map Art...................................................................................... 1 7

C&C Wood Products............................................................................ 6

Legacy New Homes........................................................................... 1 3

Coosa Valley MRI............................................................................... 4 9

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery..................................................... 5

Diamond Golf Cars............................................................................ 2 1

Oskar's Cafe........................................................................................ 5

Electronic Technology Group.............................................................. 4 9 Ellaby Boutique.................................................................................. 1 7 Four Daughters Veterinary Services.................................................... 3 4 Four Seasons..................................................................................... 4 9 Francis Bryant Construction............................................................... 2 9 George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 6 Gogue Performing Arts Center.......................................................... 3 4 Harbor Pointe Marina........................................................................ 1 2 Heritage South Credit Union................................................................ 8 Highway 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage....................................... 4 9

Phillip Pouncey Builders...................................................................... 1 7 Precise Pressure Washing................................................................... 4 9 Prime Home Health.............................................................................. 8 Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6 Russell Medical.................................................................................. 5 2 Southern Sash..................................................................................... 8 S&K Offices....................................................................................... 4 9 Sunrise Docks.................................................................................... 4 8 Tallassee Mobile Homes..................................................................... 1 7

Hinson Galleries................................................................................. 4 7

TowBoatUS........................................................................................ 3 1

Jes & Gray Living................................................................................. 3

UAB Heart & Vascular........................................................................ 4 3

Karen Channell, State Farm............................................................... 4 9

USBank.............................................................................................. 4 7

Kowaliga Veterinary Care................................................................... 4 9

Vacation Rental Management............................................................ 4 9

Lacey Howell....................................................................................... 2

Viva Medicare.................................................................................... 2 9

Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 33, 49

Will Tampling, Keller Williams.............................................................. 5

Lake Martin’s Marine Construction Company 6732 Highway 63 South, Alexander Cit y, AL 35010 | (256) 392-5200 | www. sunrisedock sllc.com

48 Lake Martin Living

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Lake Martin Living 49

RunningWoman L ast month, I went camping by myself. While I wasn’t technically alone in a remote forest, I attended RunningmanFest in north Georgia and did have to pitch a

of sleep between laps are runners’ only chance to rest throughout the entirety of the race. By completing the four-and-one-sixth-mile loop 24 times over 24 hours, participants run exactly 100 miles per day. Run, rest (if tent. you have the time), repeat until you can’t.” It was unlike any event I have Isn’t that fascinating? ever attended. It was a running Events like Runningman are designed to make festival combined with a full-on runners uncomfortable. wellness experience. Runners I slept outside on the ground in the cold. Temperatures could choose between 5k, 10, got down to 39 degrees. I had on three layers of half marathon (13.1 miles), full everything and was still cold in my sleeping bag. I marathon (26.2 miles) or the 50waited it out until about 5:45 a.m. Then, I trudged mile ultra runs. The race was held through the dense fog to my car and cranked it up to at an old horse track, and runners get warm. Seat warmers are a grand thing. I happened traveled the 1-mile loop. There to have a semi-cold Coke in there. I drank that. Thank were vendors, the world’s largest goodness, because there was a long line at the coffee sauna, cold plunges, food trucks, truck. I did not have time to wait. Lacey Howell great speakers and entertainment On the coldest morning of into the night. the fall, I set out to run a half My favorite speaking marathon. My longest run up panel consisted of the ultrato that morning had been a runners. Rich Roll, Courtney mere 3 miles because of a pulled Dauwalter and Harvey Lewis muscle. I wasn’t sure how it was were on the panel. going to go, but I figured on I must talk about how cool it running until it hurt. is to have seen Harvey Lewis. At Thirteen laps around an old 47 years old, this teacher from horse track. I thought to myself, Ohio went on the following week ‘Well, this is how Secretariat did to win the 2023 Backyard Ultra it.’ World Championship. The The national anthem was sung, format there is that competitors and I was off to the races. I felt run 4-1/6 miles every hour. The great. On the last 3 miles, I started last man standing wins, and that to slow a little, and my legs felt is what that means: Athletes tight. But I stretched it out and run until only one person is left. finished it up. Harvey set a world record at 450 The moral of the story is that miles over 108 hours. It is a test you have to push yourself. When of will as much as body. you mentally push through some As Joseph Palmer wrote on pain and uncomfortable moments, Guardian.com, “In a backyard you can usually apply that to ultra, racers must complete everyday real life stuff. a four-and-one-sixth-mile I recognized the value of cross Run, Lacey, Run! trail loop every hour, starting training. Cardio-wise, I was Lacey Howell completed a half on the hour – they must do prepared that day from bootcamp marathon at Runningman Fest 2023. this every hour, no exceptions. classes and biking. Humans are Matters of strategy and speed are meant to endure, and it is amazing left to the participants’ discretion. Runners may take the what the mind can control. I kept thinking, just run one entire hour to complete a lap, perhaps opting for slow more lap. pace to conserve energy. Alternatively, if runners finish a lap in less than an hour, they can use any remaining ~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major time to eat, hydrate, sit, stretch, talk strategy with their from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real support crew, or crucially, to sleep. Indeed, because estate, rides horses and loves good wine. Follow her on backyard ultras run throughout the night, these minutes Instagram @LaceyHowell and her Facebook page.

Culture Shock

50 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 51

MEDICAL

PARK

FAMILY CARE ANNOUNCES NEW STARTING LINEUP!

DR. JOHN ADAMS & DR. KAREN MOCKLER JOIN KAYLA TIDWELL, CRNP

AND THE ALL-STAR TEAM AT

MEDICAL PARK FAMILY CARE!

256.825.9900 CALL FOR APPOINTMENTS. 1034 S. TALLASSEE STREET DADEVILLE, AL 36853 256.825.9900