Lake Martin Living May 2025

From the Editor’s Desk

April showers might bring May flowers, but this year, May is ushering in something even better – a season full of music, memories and community connection.

This month’s issue is blooming with summertime events, starting with one of the area’s most beloved traditions: the Alexander City Jazz Fest. For 35 years, this free-to-attend festival has brought in a vibrant mix of musicians from all over the country, making it one of the Southeast’s longest-running music events. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or simply love a good time under the stars, this one’s a must.

And the fun doesn’t stop there. Alexander City is also prepping for the return of the Sun Festival in June, an eight-day celebration packed with family-friendly activities. From outdoor adventures to local food and everything in between, it’s the kind of summer tradition that turns smalltown moments into lasting summer memories.

Check out page 14 for the full breakdown of what to expect at this year’s events.

Meanwhile, just down the road, Dadeville is firing up the grill for another crowd favorite. The Summer BBQ Social is back and ready to bring the heat – complete with live music from BlackBerry Breeze, local catering by MeMama’s Grub Hub and plenty of good conversation. This 21-and-older event is more than just a night out; it’s a laid-back networking opportunity where community ties are strengthened over barbecue and beats. Flip to page 24 for the full scoop on this lakeside gathering.

Planning for out-of-town guests this Memorial Day weekend? We’ve got you covered. This month, we took a tour of the Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast in downtown Alexander City – a dreamy, historic escape filled with Southern charm. Whether you’re booking a weekend stay or looking for an intimate wedding venue, this fairy tale-like property checks every box. As owner Jennifer Durrett puts it, she’ll even happily host your cranky great aunt with true Southern hospitality. You’ll find all the details on page 18.

We’re also shining a light on the people behind the scenes who make our communities thrive. At this year’s Lead Forward women’s conference, one local leader was honored for her work in education and theater, bringing meaningful opportunities to the youth in our region. Read more about the Alexander City Chamber’s Woman of the Year on page 38.

Speaking of opportunities for our next generation of leaders, for the first time since the 1980s, Southern Preparatory Academy is opening enrollment to female students. With big changes on the horizon in academics and athletics, the school is ushering in a new era of transformation. Turn to page 36 for more on this milestone moment.

From backyard concerts to community milestones, we hope this issue leaves you inspired – and maybe even a little sun-kissed. Here’s to a safe, joyful Memorial Day weekend and a summer filled with stories worth telling.

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

Teresa Grier

Gina Abernathy

Lizi Arbogast Gwin

Cliff Williams

Abigail Murphy

Samuel Higgs

Melody Rathel

Liz Holland

Audience Development

Baily Terry

Marketing/Advertising

Renee Trice

Samantha Himes

Erin Vickers

Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999

Alexander City, AL 35011

256-234-4281

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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.

The Sun Festival returns to Alexander City, bringing eight days of excitement for all ages. From scenic boating adventures on Lake Martin to a citywide scavenger hunt, this year’s lineup is packed with family-friendly and community fun.

Photo by Alexander City Chamber

FEATURES

14. JAZZ FEST & SUN FESTIVAL

Dive into the excitement of summer with two of Alexander City's most highly anticipated events.

18 MISTLETOE BOUGH BED & BREAKFAST

Blending timeless elegance with historical charm, one Alexander City couple has turned a Victorian-style home into a romantic escape.

24. SUMMER NIGHTS & SAVORY BITES

The Summer BBQ Social returns to Dadeville with live music, flavorful food and a new location.

36. A NEW ERA DAWNS

New opportunities unfold in Camp Hill as Southern Preparatory Academy opens its doors to female students, new partnerships and expanded programs.

38. WOMAN OF THE YEAR

From elementary educator to theater volunteer, meet the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Woman of the Year.

IN EVERY ISSUE

AROUND THE AREA

United Way celebrates fundraising goal and 40 years

When many come together for a good cause, great things can come from it.

The 2025 “Give Today, Change Tomorrow,” campaign had a fundraising goal of $515,000. With the combined efforts from various organizations throughout Tallapoosa, Coosa and surrounding counties, LMAUW ultimately raised $523,480 –reaching 102 percent of its goal.

The money was raised through corporate and employee giving, individual donations, corporate foundation donations and fundraisers.

Throughout the 2025 campaign, there were 150 business contributors, 147 Red Feather Leadership Donors, 32 workplace campaigns, six corporate and foundation gifts, six out of area business contributors and two civic club contributors – the Alexander City Kiwanis Club and the Alexander City Rotary Club.

“It’s not easy being a nonprofit these days,” LMAUW executive director Courtney Layfield said at the campaign wrap-up. “But working together makes it an easier job. On those hard days, let’s remember we make a difference.”

Community of Giving

Courtney Layfield celebrates the achievement as United Way surpasses its campaign fundraising goal and looks to further its mission in the community.

Through funding, the LMAUW can host events such as Day of Action, the annual Lake Martin Wedding & Event Expo and its 211 efforts. The LMAUW 2025 campaign wrap-up and annual meeting was held April 7 at the City of Alexander City Municipal Complex Break Room.

The organization is not just celebrating a successful campaign, but also 40 years of service. For this 40-year milestone, Layfield wants to continue to spread awareness about United Way, what it does and the areas it serves. Ultimately, LMAUW hopes to continue to serve and be the best stewards it can of the donations it receives.

“I think it’s important to recognize what the community means to us,” Layfield said. “At the end of the day, fundraising is hard. It’s a lot harder than I even thought it was going to be, but this community is just incredible. Their support of us and other groups and other activities, that’s why we are here. That’s how we have been here for 40 years and that’s how we hope to be here for another 40.”

~ Abigail Murphy and Melody Rathel

Keebler Park unveils new memorial in Dadeville

Almost two years to the day since the April 15, 2023, mass shooting in Dadeville, the city and Dadeville Beautification Board unveiled a new memorial monument Sunday to commemorate and honor the four lives lost as well as the injured survivors.

During a ceremony held at Keebler Park, members of the Dadeville City Council as well as the Beautification Board were present to unveil the new monument. According to Beautification Board co-chair Elaine Forbus, the memorial is made of black granite and is inscribed with gold letters to honor Dadeville High School colors.

“This has been a year in the making,” Forbus said. “A year ago, this monument was ordered, a temporary one had been built and placed here, which has now been removed off site. This (monument) was bought through Radney and Langley

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funeral homes. Randy Anderson and Brian Cummings have made sure this was done properly and on time.”

The monument is surrounded by symbolism. A small inner circle around the monument represents the circle of life, Forbus said, while an outer circle is broken into four equal parts representing those who died during the shooting – Phil Dowdell, Keke Smith, Marsiah Collins and Corbin Holston.

Leading up to the monument is a sidewalk broken into 32 equal parts, representing the 32 injured that night.

The monument is engraved with the words “In memory of lives lost or injured on April 15, 2023.” At the bottom, it has a special inscription thanking all first responders.

~ Lizi Arbogast Gwin

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THE DREAM TEAM

Backyard Dreams & Design

The old cliché goes something like this: all things happen how and when they’re meant to. Lynn and Tracy Winfrey are living testaments to that platitude as they bring their business, Backyard Dreams & Design, to Lake Martin.

In 2020, the entire world was seeking guidance and direction, and it was during these dog days of quarantine that the Winfreys saw a vision of a new business model and home-owner need. Noticing that their neighbors were dealing with the same limited options and access to restaurants due to pandemic closures, the Winfreys utilized their skills on the grill, hosting friends for meals and hospitality during the summer. As they noticed a growing number of people enjoying time outside, Lynn approached his wife with a business idea to create luxury outdoor living spaces.

“I shared with Tracy the vision that God kept placing on my heart,” said Lynn. “It was to offer something truly unique to families in our area – something no one else had done.”

In December 2020, the Winfreys purchased a shopping center, Cheaha Plaza, from a family friend. By March 2021, the concept of Backyard Dreams & Design was born.

With Tracy by his side, the business began to take shape, and in August 2022, the Winfreys opened their first showroom in Oxford, Alabama, featuring stunning

stone fireplaces, luxury grilling areas and high-end outdoor furniture. For the next two and a half years, the Winfreys made it their mission to turn people’s backyard dreams into reality, one home at a time.

Following their success, Lynn again approached his wife with the idea of continuing to expand their outdoor furniture and appliance business into a new market: Lake Martin.

“I had a good friend of mine, David Bonami, who’s a builder in Birmingham,” said Lynn. “He started telling me that I needed to be on Lake Martin, that there’s nothing like what I am doing down there.”

In February 2025, a steak dinner and a newfound friendship with Stillwaters residents Eric and Stacey McKinley led the Winfreys to purchase a location for their new Lake Martin business in the heart of Dadeville, bringing dreams of outdoor entertainment to the local area.

“The name says it all,” said Lynn. “Everybody you come in contact with has a different dream, and everybody’s backyard that we do is different – that’s the unique thing about it.”

The Winfreys refer to their staffing team as the “Dream Team.” The couple takes pride in establishing an environment where workers never feel less than family, and emphasizes perfection in hospitality while bringing a creative approach to each design they build

STORY BY AUSTIN ELLIOTT

PHOTOS BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE & COURTESY OF BACKYARD DREAMS & DESIGN

for their customers. This culminating culture is a key factor in what Lynn believes has led to the success of their business.

“We formed what I call the ‘Dream Team,’” said Lynn. “We’re like one big family. And the customers that we build for are, in my opinion, the best advertisement you can have – a happy, satisfied customer.”

That same prided sense of compassion is displayed in all of Lynn’s work as well. Backyard Dreams & Design builds and installs an array of various amenities for homes. From pools and luxury water features to built-in gas grills and refrigerators, there are endless vision options for the Dream Team to design. Backyard Dreams & Design also has the capability to work with other outdoor or landscape-related concepts. Along with appliances, the Winfreys will begin offering luxury outdoor furniture and accessories at Lake Martin, partnering with key companies such as Tommy Bahama.

“We’ve been amazed at the response we’ve received from our furniture partners, including Tommy Bahama, Lexington Home Brands and Castelle,” said Lynn. “It’s all high-quality furniture that nobody’s ever offered right here.”

Embracing close bonds with his family and friends his entire life, Lynn has made quite a few unique connections throughout the years. One of those is

Elaborate Escapes Facing Page: The highly anticipated store is set to open this month in Dadeville; Clockwise From Top: Luxury designs are a signature element of the company; Design options include water features and pools; Together, the Winfreys expanded their dream to Lake Martin.

country music superstar Riley Green, whom Lynn has called a close friend for more than 20 years. The platinum record-selling country artist shares familiar roots with Lynn.

“I’ve known him pretty much forever, and everybody thinks I’m kin to him, but I’m not,” Lynn said. “But we have had vacations together with his dad, uncle and his granddaddy, Buford.”

Backyard Dreams & Design values the process and satisfaction of all. The Winfreys feel that the transition to the Lake Martin area will be one that has everlasting impacts. Since the debut of their original location, the Winfreys have strived for perfection in hospitality. The ambitious new Lake Martin duo will continue to pursue ultimate customer satisfaction and make some new friends in the process.

“That’s our motto, ‘Dream big and believe,’” said Winfrey. “Dream big and believe in God; that’s all.”

The Lake Martin location of Backyard Dreams & Design will have its grand opening on May 21, which will include a meet-and-greet opportunity with Riley Green and West Virginia University head football coach Rich Rodriguez. For further information about Backyard Dreams & Design, visit backyardreamsanddesign.com or call 256-307-1061 for the Lake Martin location.

& Sun Festival

STORY BY AUSTIN ELLIOTT

PHOTOS BY LIZ HOLLAND & COURTESY OF ALEXANDER CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

JAZZ FEST

The combination of smooth tunes and lively energy has been the secret ingredient for the annual Jazz Fest in Alexander City. The 35th annual festival is set to showcase two unforgettable nights of live music, with Jaimee Paul, Leif Shires and Doc Robinson headlining, each offering their own unique musical style. Strand Park and The AMP will host the four bands and a vibrant crowd from the community on June 13-14.

In an ever-changing world, Jazz Fest has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of Alexander City’s identity. Adding to its prestige, the festival has featured numerous showcase-caliber artists, several of whom have earned Grammy nominations – one of the highest honors in the music industry. Among these distinguished performers are Zac Brown Band, Dickey Betts of the Allman Brothers Band, Taj Mahal and JJ Grey & Mofro.

This year’s Jazz Fest brings a dynamic lineup of jazz, blues and rock that promises vibrant melodies and performances to keep the crowd entertained.

Kicking off Friday evening at Strand Park, Jovin Webb takes the stage at 6:30 p.m. with his energetic blend of soul and blues, setting the tone for a memorable Jazz Fest. Known for his powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence, Webb blends traditional blues with modern soul, creating a high-energy performance that captivates audiences and showcases his musical versatility.

Jaimee Paul and Leif Shires will headline opening night, performing from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This dynamic duo – a soul-stirring vocalist from Illinois and a gifted trumpet player from California – has found remarkable musical harmony. Their performance promises to be a highlight of the festival and one you won’t want to miss.

Saturday’s entertainment continues at The AMP with Randall Bramblett and the Megablaster Horns taking the stage at 6:30 p.m. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Martin, this high-energy band is known for its dynamic blend of rock, soul and jazz, delivering an unforgettable performance that will keep the crowd grooving all night long.

Doc Robinson rocks out the home stretch, kicking off at 8 p.m. The band has made a name for itself in the alternative music scene. Founded by Jon Elliott and Nick D'Andrea in 2016, Doc Robinson has since seen much success, with its songs featured on shows like The Walking Dead and tours alongside popular bands such as Camp and The Brook &

The Bluff.

Music Headliners

Steve Robinson, president and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, expresses gratitude to Russell Lands and other sponsors for helping make this year’s event primed for success.

“We are thrilled with the diversity and talent we’ve recruited to perform at this year’s Jazz Fest,” said Robinson. “This is the signature event for Alex City and the Lake Martin community. It’s exciting to have this caliber of musicians performing for the attendees Jazz Fest attracts over the two days. We would like to thank Russell Lands for serving as the presenting sponsor, as well as all of our sponsors and the City of Alexander City for allowing us to host this event each year.”

SUN FESTIVAL

Every summer, Alexander City comes together for one of its most anticipated traditions – the Sun Festival. This eight-day celebration has become a standout event for the Lake Martin area, offering a mix of family-friendly fun and activities geared toward adults.

Fun in the Sun Sun Festival hosts eight days of family fun activities.

From Left: Jovin Webb, Doc Robinson, Randall Bramblett and Leif Shires with Jamiee Paul.

Woof!

Bark in the Park is a popular event for pets and their owners.

Since its debut in 2012, the festival has steadily grown in popularity, and this year promises the return of fan favorites like the 5K run and “On the Pontoon”.

Runners looking to lace up for a themed race are in luck – the Sun Festival 5K returns with a superhero twist. Scheduled for June 6, the free-to-run event kicks off at 8 a.m. from Strand Park in downtown Alexander City. Whether you’re a Marvel fan or just love a fun challenge, this lighthearted race is a great way to join in the festival spirit. To sign up or learn more, call 256-289-7955.

Festivalgoers can also take in the beauty of Lake Martin with “On the Pontoon”, a scenic sightseeing cruise. Sponsored by Love Lake Martin, this marquee event features two separate pontoon boat rides, each lasting about two

hours and showcasing some of the lake’s most iconic spots. Snacks and soft drinks will also be provided. Space is limited and registration is required. To reserve a spot, call 205-616-8046.

Tykes in Trucks invites little ones to climb behind the wheel of an Alexander City fire truck and see the world from a firefighter’s point of view. Held from 10 a.m. to noon on June 6, the hands-on event gives boys and girls a chance to explore real fire equipment and meet the people who use it.

Canvas & Cocktails is an adults-only evening of creativity and relaxation, perfect for anyone who enjoys a summer sunset, a paintbrush in hand and a cocktail to sip. Set for 6 p.m. in the Lake Martin Area United Way Conference Room, the event offers a laid-back atmosphere for guests to unwind and create a masterpiece as the sun dips below the June horizon.

Kim Dunn has had a hand in creating the weeklong celebration and said she’s enjoyed the positive response from Sun Festival participants.

“It was created to be something that our community could be proud of,” said Dunn. “This event is something that families can do during the summer, and we just want to encourage everybody to get out and participate.”

Don’t miss a moment of the fun-filled week. Visit the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Facebook page for the full lineup of daily Sun Festival activities.

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.

Misteltoe Bough Bed & Breakfast

STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE & PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS

Tucked away near the heart of downtown Alexander City, the Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast is an enchanting destination that feels like something out of a storybook. With its grand Victorian architecture, wraparound porch and Southern charm, the home offers guests not just a place to rest but an experience to remember.

Owned and operated by Eddie and Jennifer Durrett, Mistletoe Bough is more than just a restored historic home. It’s a labor of love rooted in the couple’s shared passion for preservation and hospitality.

Victorian Escape Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast provides Southern charm and warm hospitality for guests.

Before settling in Alexander City, the Durretts spent six years in Louisville, Kentucky, where they owned and restored a historic home built in 1896. Known for having the highest concentration of Victorian homes in the country post-Hurricane Katrina, Louisville helped spark their passion for bringing old estates back to life.

“We’ve had a love of old homes for a very long time,” said Jennifer, a former public school teacher from Arkansas. “While we were in Louisville, we developed a love for saving and preserving history and sharing it with other people.”

Their journey to Mistletoe Bough began in 2021. At the time, the couple lived in Fort Pierce, Florida, and were searching for a new lifestyle that blended work, passion and fun.

“Like many people, our outlook on life kind of became a little different post COVID-19,” said Jennifer. “We just started looking at life differently. We wanted to find a way that we could maximize our playtime and still make a good income. So, this is an unconventional way to do that, but it fits for us in our lives.”

The couple had been considering other bed and breakfast properties, including one in Florida that didn’t feel like the right fit. Then Jennifer came across a listing for Mistletoe Bough online. While en route to visit her father in Arkansas, Eddie encouraged Jennifer to make a detour to Alexander City to see the home in person.

Step Inside History

Above: The charming dining room; Below: The Durretts bought the home in 2021; Facing Page: Historic features were preserved; A wraparound porch makes for an ideal gathering space; The Sunshine Suite; Tea parties are among the many themed events hosted at the home; The Victorian house makes for a stunning wedding venue; The Sweet Pea Suite.

Herzfeld, the home’s story is one of determination and the American dream. Herzfeld arrived in the United States in the 1870s, working first in a cigar-rolling factory in Pennsylvania before peddling goods and eventually settling in Alabama, where he opened a dry goods store in Opelika with his brother. He later founded his own store in Alexander City.

Herzfeld is also recognized for playing an instrumental role in bringing the Avondale Mill to town, as well as founding the Alexander City Bank.

The couple saw potential immediately. The house had strong bones, beautiful details and had been well maintained through the years. Mistletoe Bough was everything they’d imagined for their vision of an enchanting bed and breakfast and wedding venue.

Built in 1895 by German-Jewish immigrant Reuben

“This truly is a home of someone who lived the American dream,” said Jennifer. “An immigrant who came here and changed his life and his family’s life.”

The house itself bears the marks of its history. Herzfeld’s initials –“RH”– remain etched into the original glass of the front doors.

The name of the home is as historic as the structure itself.

Herzfeld’s wife, Julia, referred to the home as her “Mistletoe Bough.” Mistletoe, especially when used in the form of a bough, is associated with romance, love and good fortune. The property stayed in the family for 98 years, with the Herzfelds' granddaughter, Clara Ewing, being the last family member to live in the home.

The 8,000-square-foot home retains much of its original character: wavy glass windows, plaster walls, stained glass and unique design features from the late 19th century. Built on stilts, a typical construction practice of the era, the home includes five guest rooms, each with a private bath, air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Closets – rare in Victorian-era homes – are a distinctive touch in each room.

In addition, each room has its own unique theme, designed with a thoughtful blend of period-style furniture and artwork, including pieces inspired by Rembrandt, Monet and Van Gogh. The first space the Durretts tackled in their renovation process was the Gentleman’s Room – a main floor parlor complete with leather seating, a fireplace and original pocket doors. A pass-through entry, believed to connect to the former master bedroom, adds to its charm. It remains Eddie’s favorite room in the house.

Mistletoe Bough is more than a bed and breakfast – it’s a romantic retreat for adults, designed with relaxation and celebration in mind. Guests ages 12 and older are welcomed to the home for birthday getaways, engagements, anniversaries and more. The Durretts also offer a range of customizable packages for elevated guest experiences.

Elegant Stay

Clockwise: The Victorian home is known for its unique architecture; The Gentleman’s Room; Each bedroom features stunning décor. Facing Page: Herzfeld's initials are etched into the original glass.

With check-in starting at 3 p.m., guests are greeted with a homemade treat from Jennifer’s kitchen. From lemon bars to sourdough bread and charcuterie boards, every item is made by hand.

“I do all of this myself,” said Jennifer. “Nothing is store-bought here. There’s a sign in my kitchen that says, ‘Everything’s homemade with love and butter,’ and that really is true. I do everything from scratch.”

Each morning, guests are treated to a Southern-style breakfast that includes savory items such as fresh fruit, French toast with powdered sugar and maple syrup, and scrambled eggs with sausage or bacon.

For couples looking to add a special touch to their stay, the Romance Package includes a bottle of wine, chocolate-covered strawberries and fresh flowers. Guests can also book massages or head out on Lake Martin with the Durretts, who captain a boat and serve as personal tour guides. Sunset cruises, day excursions and even a new guided fishing trip – offered in partnership with Alex City Guide Service – are among the available package options.

Weddings are another piece that adds to the charm of Mistletoe Bough. The home serves as an intimate venue for elopements, micro weddings and full celebrations, complete with lodging for the bridal party as well as weekend access to

the entire property. The outdoor tent can accommodate up to 120 guests, while the iconic wraparound porch provides a natural gathering space.

In addition, the Durretts offer inhouse catering and help manage every detail of the event. Jennifer, who is ordained, often performs ceremonies for couples choosing to elope on-site.

“One of the biggest things about Mistletoe Bough is that we are a historic wedding venue, with lodging on site,” said Jennifer. “We love to make it as personal and intimate as possible for every couple.”

Their commitment extends beyond the front doors. Jennifer and Eddie serve as unofficial concierges, recommending local restaurants, antique shops, hiking trails and live music spots to their guests. Their aim is not just to provide an affordable stay – but to showcase the best of Alexander City while helping promote other local businesses.

“Whenever you stay at Mistletoe Bough, it really is like having a concierge for free,” said Jennifer. “We enjoy helping promote other people’s businesses in the area. It’s essential.”

At the heart of it all is a love for history and hospitality – a calling the Durretts feel honored to fulfill.

“Eddie and I really do consider this home like we’re caretaking,” said Jennifer. “We’re just taking care of it until it’s time for somebody else to. But a house like this should be full, and we want to share it with other people.”

For more information and to make reservations, visit mistletoebough.com.

Summer Nights & Savory Bites

STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAKE MARTIN – DADEVILLE AREA CHAMBER

The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber is gearing up to host its fifth annual Summer BBQ Social on June 17 from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering a flavorful evening of barbecue, live music and the opportunity to connect with friends, neighbors and fellow local business owners. This year’s event will take place at the scenic New Water Farms, located on the beautiful waters of Lake Martin.

With crowd-favorite band BlackBerry Breeze returning to the stage, the event is expected to draw another lively turnout. Past years have been a hit, and the chamber is leaning into that momentum.

“It is a tremendous networking opportunity for all of our members and community,” said Rhonda Gaskins, president of the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber. “It’s a night to have some great food, great entertainment and let your hair down.”

The Summer BBQ Social got its start in 2020 as a creative way to bring the community together during the early days of the pandemic. Hosted at Kylie Cooper Farms, an estimated 200 people were in attendance, making the inaugural event a clear hit. Since then, the social has become a seasonal favorite in Dadeville.

“We wanted to do a fun, summertime social event to give back to our members,” said Ginger McCollum, chair of the Summer BBQ Social. “This event allows business owners the opportunity to network as well as talk with the community about what they offer. It’s really a fun event.”

The Dadeville Chamber has made a point to spotlight its member businesses as the event has grown, relying on local vendors for everything from the venue and entertainment to catering. While the Mitchell House has graciously hosted the event for several years, the lakeside setting at New Water Farms will bring a fresh backdrop for this year’s social.

The theme for 2025 is “picnic style,” with the laid-back menu to match. Local favorite MeMama’s Grub Hub will

Beats & BBQ

Clockwise: BlackBerry Breeze provides the entertainment each year; The event returns to New Water Farms in 2025; The Summer BBQ Social is a great opportunity to connect with the community.

cater the event, serving up barbecue chicken and pork, baked beans and potato salad. Complimentary drinks are also included with each ticket, with beverage services provided by Chuck’s Marina. The only item guests are encouraged to bring is a tip for the bartenders.

While the savory menu and rocking tunes are a big draw, the social is just as much about community connection. Guests can enjoy lawn games like cornhole while mingling or take their chances with the chamber’s new raffle giveaway, featuring gift cards and basket items obtained from local businesses.

“It’s a great networking social, and the band is phenomenal,” McCollum said. “It’s a fun event, and we hope that everybody comes out, participates and enjoys it.”

The 21-and-older event is open to the public. Tickets are available for $30 and include food, drinks and entertainment. They can be purchased online until the June 10 deadline or through the QR code available on the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber Facebook page and via Dadeville Chamber members.

For local businesses looking to get involved, sponsorship opportunities are also available. A $500 sponsorship includes a reserved table and 10 tickets, along with promotional placement on table signage and the event slideshow. A $250 sponsorship is also available and comes with five tickets to the event with same promotional placement.

Whether you’re there for the food, the music or the chance to win a door prize, this year’s Summer BBQ Social promises another night of community fun, serving up a little Alabama charm on the side.

For more information, contact the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber at 256-825-4019 or email chamber@dadeville.com.

Lake 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

Landscaping

Lighting & Electrical

Repairs & Maintenance

Winning the battle, not the war, against fire ants

They’re back! Yes, the fire ants are back, and if you haven’t seen them yet, you will. Every year, homeowners, landowners and fire ants go to war against each other for the rights to the area. When warmer weather sets in, fire ants become more active and begin building new mounds and starting new colonies. At the same time, people start spending more time outside and begin doing yard work and gardening. When they eventually meet, another battle breaks out and the annual war begins.

Red imported fire ants are originally from South America and accidentally came to the Southeastern United States on a ship through the port of Mobile, Alabama, in the 1930s. Yes, another thing Alabama is famous for. Since then, this ant species has had an enormous effect on the Southeastern United States and continues to spread into areas of North America with mild climates and adequate moisture and food. Approximately 325 million acres in the Southeastern United States are infested, including all of Alabama’s 67 counties.

Winning the battle, not the war, against fire ants is the most practical game plan a homeowner or landowner should have. Unfortunately, there is not a control method that will permanently eliminate fire ants despite all the numerous efforts to get rid of them. Controlling fire ants on a site will always be an ongoing effort. However, there are some proven strategies and methods that will help control fire ants in the lawn and garden areas.

The best and proven methods for controlling fire ants have been through mound treatments, broadcast treatments or a combination of both.

Tactical Application

Facing Page: While there is no permanent solution for fire ants, smart steps will help win the battle for your lawn.

Mound treatments are dry or liquid drench treatments containing fast-acting contact insecticides that you apply directly to individual fire ant mounds. They provide a quick kill for existing or pop-up mounds, but not long-term fire ant control. Insecticide options include powder, granular, bait, drench and injection. Their effectiveness depends on proper application. Contact insecticides must physically contact ants to work and should be applied during times of the year, and times

of the day, when ants are close to the mound surface. It is also important not to disturb the mound during treatment. When disturbed, the workers react and take the queen to safety by moving her deep into the mound or escaping through underground tunnels to establish satellite mounds; however, repeated treatments may be necessary for persistent mounds or colonies that are not initially visible. Individual mound treatments are usually more time-consuming and expensive compared to other methods.

Recommended insecticides for individual mound treatments are various products that contain bifenthrin, permethrin and spinosad, acephate, beta-cyfluthrin, deltamethrin and zeta-cypermethrin plus bifenthrin.

According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, the faster-acting bait products containing hydramethylnon, indoxacarb or spinosad can also be used to treat individual ant mounds

For long-term control of fire ants in an area, the use of broadcast insecticides is highly recommended. These treatments simply involve applying insecticide, such as a bait, over a large area. With baits, the fire ants do all the work for you. The fire ants that are foraging for food will pick up the bait and take it back to the mound. The bait is then fed to the queen and the rest of the colony. Once the queen dies, so does the entire colony. Broadcast bait treatments help control existing fire ant colonies, as well as

new, young colonies before their mounds appear.

Although baits do not provide a quick kill, this method is the overall best strategy since it is less expensive and manages fire ants over a longer period. Expect all treatments to take at least 2 to 4 weeks, or 6 to 12 weeks with some insecticides, to see results. Early spring is an ideal time to apply baits because fire ants are actively foraging for food. Mid- to late-day applications of baits are most effective because worker ants are usually foraging during the warmer parts of the day.

Controlling the Colonies

Below: While eliminating individual mounds is time-consuming, insecticides prove to be a handy resource.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service states the bait you apply determines how quickly ants will be controlled and how long the effect will last. Faster-acting bait products include indoxacarb (works in 3 to 10 days), hydramethylnon (works in 7 to 14 days for mound treatments and in 2 to 3 weeks when broadcast) and spinosad (works in several weeks). They may need to be reapplied more often than slower-acting and longer-lasting products such as abamectin, fenoxycarb, methoprene or pyriproxyfen, which work in 1 to 2 months when applied in spring and 6 months when applied in fall. Products that combine fastand slow-acting ingredients, such as hydramethylnon plus methoprene, such as Extinguish® Plus and Amdro®

Firestrike, may control ants better because they act quickly and last longer.

Baiting The Enemy Top to Bottom: Baiting fire ants is the best overall strategy for controlling infestations; Use potato chips, the greasy, unflavored kind, to check for fire ant foraging activity; Broadcast treatments can help control colonies.

There are also broadcast insecticides, packaged as granular products, that can also be used to control fire ants. This adds to the confusion of so many fire ant products, but they are not baits, as they do not contain food or attractants. Neither do ants collect the granules and carry them back to the mound. These products contain long-lasting contact insecticides and work by killing ants that contact treated soil.

GARDEN TALK

Shane Harris

One advantage of broadcast treatments is that new, young colonies may be controlled before mounds appear above the turf. Therefore, the need for continual treatment of visible mounds may be reduced until reinfestations occur. Additional treatments are suggested come mid-summer and fall to gain even better control of fire ants, resulting in fewer colonies. Some have suggested remembering to do fire ant broadcast treatments near these holidays: Easter, Fourth of July and Labor Day.

Lastly, folks are always trying to discover non-insecticidal methods to suppress fire ants. Boiling 2 to 3 gallons of water per mound has shown some control of fire ants, but rarely kills the queen and thus, the mound. Mixing the ants of two separate mounds is entertaining and may cause relocation or removal of queens and broods. Beware of what you read on the internet or social posts, as gimmicks and home remedies do not work and are not research-based. Gasoline and related materials are not registered for the control of fire ants, are illegal and are an environmental hazard. Moreover, they are dangerous to handle; they are usually expensive; and they kill grass and other plants that are contacted.

Time to prepare for another war because the battle is about to begin, starting with your lawn, garden, flowerbed, orchard, hayfield, pasture, playground, ballfield – They’re basically everywhere! The fire ants are back and ready for another round. The best offense and a great defense, or some might say vice versa. Be educated by knowing the foe and what tactics and tools to utilize to manage those fire ants.

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

~ Shane Harris is the County Extension Director and horticulturist for Tallapoosa County.

SpinachStrawberrySalad

Recipe on the next page

When the days start getting longer and the air smells a little sweeter, spring has finally arrived. With it comes my craving for something light, fresh and colorful. Strawberry spinach salad is a seasonal showstopper that’s bursting with color, flavor and texture. It’s one of those recipes that brightens up any table with its fresh ingredients and zesty flavors.

This salad has quickly become a family favorite at our house. It shows up at weeknight dinners and special occasions, and everyone agrees it’s one of the best parts of the meal. The sweet strawberries, tangy dressing and crunchy pecans hit all the right notes. It’s always a winner, no matter when I serve it.

This salad is one of those easy, go-to recipes that comes together in minutes but still looks fancy enough to take to a baby shower, bridal brunch or laid-back backyard cookout. It’s made with simple, every day ingredients you probably already have on hand –nothing fussy or hard to find. The combination of sweet strawberries, crisp spinach and crunchy pecans tastes fresh without extra effort.

GOOD EATS

Gina Abernathy

If you’re like me and love a dish that can be prepped beforehand, this one checks all the boxes. You can slice the strawberries, toast the pecans and shake up the dressing earlier in the day. When it’s time to eat, just toss everything together and give it a good drizzle. It’s quick, stress-free and impressive. Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again all spring and summer long.

This salad is super versatile. You can serve it as a light lunch, pair it with grilled chicken or salmon for something heartier, or bring it along as a side dish to just about any spring or summer gathering. You can even swap the pecans for walnuts, red onions for white, add a little feta or toss in some blueberries for a delightful twist. Whether hosting friends or looking for a fresh, no-fuss recipe to brighten your weeknight dinners, this strawberry spinach salad is a must. It’s pretty, packed with flavor and brings a taste of spring to every bite. Once you try it, it may also become a regular on your table.

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

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE

Ingredients

8 to 10 ounces fresh baby spinach

2 cups strawberries, sliced

1 cup dried cranberries

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped

Dressing

3/4 cup vegetable oil

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon salt

Directions

To make the salad dressing, add the vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard and salt to a mason jar. Add a tight-fitting lid and shake well. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Shake before serving.

Prep the salad ingredients by slicing the strawberries and onion. Toast the pecans. Assemble the salad by tossing all of the salad ingredients in a large bowl. Add the dressing and serve.

Notes

I usually have family and guests add the dressing to their own salad. By doing this, the salad will not get soggy in the refrigerator if there are any leftovers.

Questions

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A New Era Dawns

Southern Preparatory Academy offers new opportunities

STORY BY AUSTIN ELLIOTT

PHOTO COURTESY OF SOUTHERN PREPARATORY ACADEMY

Time has steadily changed the world around us. It has also witnessed the United States undergo various modifications, including the school that is tucked into the heart of Camp Hill. Change is paramount for growth and development and is exactly what is on the horizon for the newly named Southern Preparatory Academy.

Starting this summer, the school will begin welcoming young women onto campus for the first time since the 1980s. In addition, Southern Preparatory Academy will begin transitioning from a school with solely a military education model into a private school, with ample acreage allowing for vast learning opportunities and a very eager and qualified staff to assist in the changes. The new curriculum will place an emphasis on academic development, career

preparedness, collegiate exposure and athletics. One of the primary goals for the modified preparatory program is to be a school in which parents of students are proud.

Becca Nelson, an Auburn native, serves as director of institutional advancement at Southern Preparatory Academy. Since joining the staff in 2019, Nelson has been part of the evolution taking place on the hallowed grounds in Camp Hill.

“I’m a parent, and my daughter is under 2, so this is something big for me,” Nelson said. “I want this to be a place where she can attend as well, so I do have some personal buy-in as far as wanting to see these enhancements follow through. I do think, as a parent, you want what’s best for your child, especially when it comes to education.”

Initially, Southern Preparatory Academy was created to serve a unique purpose.

In 1898, Lyman Ward, a minister from New York, visited Camp Hill and quickly identified a dire need for education and industrial training in the Deep South. Drawing inspiration from a speech he attended by one of his longtime friends, Booker T. Washington, Ward founded the Southern Industrial Institute.

At the turn of the 21st century, the United States had a great demand for industrially skilled applicants who could assist in the construction of a nation reborn. This time period is referred to as “Chapter One,” a moniker given by Col Corey Ramsby of Southern Preparatory Academy.

As the years passed, the school saw an increase in academic progress with its students. The United States felt that elite military skills training would be imperative in the future following the conclusion of World War II. This led to Southern Industrial Institute changing its name and demographic. In 1954, the Board of Trustees voted to change the name to Lyman Ward Military Academy. While the concept for the school was not originally intended to establish an allboys academy, over the years it gradually became a tradition – more by practice than by design – to admit

Next Generation Southern Preparatory Academy will be opening its campus to female students starting this summer.

only young males.

Now, as the school begins a new chapter as Southern Preparatory Academy, the institution looks forward to welcoming young women back to its campus this summer.

Col Corey Ramsby is currently serving as the 12th president of Southern Preparatory Academy. A 1994 graduate of Purdue University and a former member of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, Ramsby served 27 years in the Air Force and three in the Space Force, holding multiple senior leadership roles, including commanding AFROTC nationwide. Ramsby brings his years of systematic training to a philosophy of transformative success, which he aims to implement at Southern Preparatory Academy.

“After spending 35 years serving your nation, excellence and integrity are just ingrained in everything that we do,” Ramsby said. “So, this is an opportunity in order to continue down a similar path. If there’s anything I learned in a 30-year military career and retiring as a colonel and leading large national-level organizations, it’s about change management – I understand change management.”

From August to May during the academic year, boarding options will be available only to male students who partake in the military program; however, during the summer months, female students will be offered the option to board on campus as part of a trial phase for both camp and summer school. Day students, male and female, will have the option to join the Corps of Cadets. The curriculum will consist of material designed to enhance all students in their progression, with Southern Preparatory Academy modeling its program after Texas A&M. This will include a rigorous academic program coupled with an elite Corps of Cadets.

“We will reestablish our academics in order to address the culture,” said Col Ramsby. “Once we get to the point where academics is the most important thing, then I have the foundation needed in order to add in the athletics and the elite military program, very similar to Texas A&M.”

Athletics will be another main point of focus for the Rangers, with planned upgrades to facilities, uniforms and equipment. Thanks to a generous donor, Southern Preparatory Academy will be upgrading its gymnasium with a new basketball floor.

In addition, on May 1, the school signed an agreement with Under Armour for new sports team uniforms, making Under Armour the official brand of Southern Preparatory Academy athletics. Over the next three years, the school will roll out new uniforms across its sports teams.

Southern Preparatory Academy is on the brink of making a historic transformation. In June, a new era will dawn over the historic grounds in Camp Hill, offering a future of optimism and opportunity for the next generation of Rangers.

Woman of the Year CHRISTALE TUCK

STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE & PHOTOS BY LIZI ARBOGAST GWIN

Alexander City is home to oustanding individuals who devote their time and energy to creating a stronger, more connected community. Among them is Christale Tuck, who was recently named the 2025 Woman of the Year by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. The honor, presented during the Chamber’s annual Lead Forward women’s conference, recognizes Tuck’s longstanding commitment to service, education and the arts.

Presented annually to a woman whose contributions leave a meaningful and lasting impact, this year’s award was announced by 2019 recipient Karen Kison. In the months leading up to the event, Kison, Karen Treadwell and Jill Romine collaborated with community members to organize the surprise, coordinating with Tuck’s family and close friends to ensure they were able to attend the conference and share in the celebration.

“I was so shocked and surprised,” said Tuck. “I had no idea all this was happening. I didn’t realize that my family knew about it for months; what an amazing thing for them to pull together.”

Growing up in Kellyton, Alabama, Tuck was one of

seven siblings – five girls and two boys – including her twin sister, Tiffany. From a young age, faith played a central role in Tuck’s life, stemming from her family’s unwavering commitment to the church.

Tuck’s father, a deacon and Sunday school teacher, had a profound impact on her values and eventual career path. While both parents remain her heroes, her father’s influence was particularly strong in shaping her love for teaching.

“My dad was a Sunday school teacher,” said Tuck. “He was my inspiration to become a teacher because I just love the fact that he was able to get people to love the Lord through his teachings.”

She also draws inspiration from her grandmother, who dreamed of becoming an educator in the 1950s but was unable to pursue that goal due to limited opportunities at the time. Today, Tuck carries forward her legacy in her own aspirations and work.

After graduating from Central High School in Coosa County, Tuck earned a degree in education from Auburn University at Montgomery. She has spent nearly two decades teaching first and second grade at Jim Pearson Elementary School, where her curriculum spans a wide range of subjects, including math and reading. Now in her 20th year of teaching, Tuck is pursuing a master’s degree in elementary education from the University of West Alabama.

“I’ve been teaching for 20 years, and I love what I’m doing,” said Tuck. “I’m not ready to give that up yet. I want to be the change for the kids.”

Her commitment to the community extends well beyond the classroom. For the past seven years, Tuck has served as a board member, director, and stage manager with Alexander City Theatre II. A few of her most memorable productions include Sister Act, Driving Miss Daisy, and Princess Whashername.

Sweet Surprise

Tuck has also directed youth productions for the past four summers, encouraging children to explore their creative sides. This July, she will direct 101 Dalmatians, which will feature a cast of 50 local children.

Left: Karen Kison announced the award at the Lead Forward event; Right: Tuck was honored for her impact as a volunteer and educator.

“Just being able to

Faith and Family Left: Grounded by faith, Tuck finds inspiration in life through God and family.

II Baptist Church in Kellyton. When the Chamber of Commerce informed her family months in advance about the Woman of the Year recognition, they quietly began making arrangements to attend the ceremony. Much to Tuck’s surprise, several family members traveled from out of state to be present when she received the honor, including her sister

Early Detection Saves Lives: Get Screened

Ijust turned 64 years old. Next year, I’ll have my “Welcome to Medicare” initial wellness examination, complete with an array of preventive testing. I didn’t wait to turn 65 to do my cancer screening tests, and neither should you.

Even though we have made incredible progress in treating cancer, the two best weapons we have against the disease are prevention and screening . We have seen firsthand at the Cancer Center how screening saves lives. Perhaps the most impressive advancement we have seen is in lung cancer screening for smokers and former smokers. In the past, we never found lung cancer early. By the time it showed up on a chest X-ray, it was already too late and no longer curable. But with lung cancer screening, we are curing cancers before they have a chance to spread and become deadly.

MEDICAL NEWS

Screening for cancer is performed before symptoms are present. Once a person has symptoms, any testing is diagnostic. The earlier you identify a tumor, the better your chances of survival. But screening is as much for peace of mind as it is for finding cancer, since more than 80 percent of screening examinations turn out negative, and in this world, negative is good.

George Miranda

We don’t have screening tests for all cancers. For instance, we don’t have a good way to find ovarian and pancreatic cancer early. But we do have effective screening for certain cancers. The following are recommendations for people with average risk. People with a family history or other risk factors should talk to their physician about personalized screening schedules.

BREAST CANCER

Women should start having annual mammograms at age 40. They should also perform breast selfexams monthly. Aim for the same time of the month for self-exams, especially if you’re premenopausal, because of hormone-induced changes in breast tissue. Have your physician teach you how to do self-exams

if you’re not comfortable with the process.

Men can get breast cancer, but it’s extremely rare –about 1,000 cases each year in the U.S., so screening is not effective for men. However, if you feel a lump, have your doctor check it out.

COLORECTAL CANCER

Men and women should start screening for colorectal cancer by age 45. African Americans should start at age 40 because they tend to have more aggressive disease and, consequently, higher mortality from colorectal cancer.

The gold standard is a colonoscopy every 10 years for average-risk individuals. For those who just can’t bring themselves to have a colonoscopy (yes, the prep is unpleasant, but the drugs are great), there are stool-based tests: the fecal occult blood test, the better fecal immunohistochemical test and the best DNA-based test, Cologuard. With stool testing, let me just tell you now so you can prepare yourself –you will package and mail a sample of your feces to the lab for testing. The test comes with instructions for how to harvest the specimen.

If you choose to do a stool-based test, you’ll have to repeat it more frequently – every three years or so. And if you have a positive finding, then you still have to have a colonoscopy. So just bite the bullet and get it over with – do the colonoscopy.

CERVICAL CANCER

Women ages 21 to 65 should have cervical cancer testing every three years with a Pap smear from ages 21 to about 30, after which they should be tested for the human papillomavirus along with the Pap smear every five years. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers because virtually all cervical cancers arise from HPV infection. We can obliterate cervical cancer by having our children vaccinated against HPV before they become sexually active.

PROSTATE CANCER

There is currently a lack of consensus about prostate cancer screening. Best practice is to make a decision about screening in consultation with your primary care physician. I tend to agree with the professional associations that recommend starting prostate cancer screening at age 40, rather than 50 –especially if you’re African American. Prostate cancer tends to be diagnosed at later stages in African

American men, and the disease tends to be more aggressive and fatal for Black men. Screening for prostate cancer is done with a blood test called prostate-specific antigen. Interpreting the PSA results is an art form, so don’t listen to the outdated advice concerning PSA levels. A PSA of 4.0 does not automatically confer a cancer diagnosis. It’s not the actual level of PSA, but the rate at which it increases that portends a cancer diagnosis.

LUNG CANCER

Adults 50 to 80 years old who have a 20-pack-year smoking history and who are current smokers or who have quit within the last 15 years will qualify for lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT of the chest. Unlike a screening mammogram, where any woman can walk into a breast center and get screened, you must have a physician’s order for LDCT lung cancer screening in order to have it covered by your health insurance plan.

Remember that these recommendations are for average-risk persons, except lung cancer screening, which is, by definition, for highrisk persons. Talk to your doctor about your family history for breast, prostate and colorectal cancer. You may need to start screening earlier or more frequently than the above recommendations. Your doctor may also recommend genetic testing based on your family history. It’s true that some of these screening tests are uncomfortable. But don’t avoid them. The cancers they are designed to prevent or identify early are much more uncomfortable than the screening tests. These screening tests are also covered at 100 percent by commercial health insurance and Medicare. And if your insurance plan does not cover testing, as Alabama Medicaid often doesn’t,

or if you are uninsured, there are programs and foundations that can facilitate your screening. For instance, the Alabama Department of Public Health sponsors a program for early detection of breast and cervical cancer that provides free screening and diagnostic testing for uninsured and underinsured women. If you are uninsured, reach out to the county health department or the cancer center to find out if there are programs to open the door for you to get screened.

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

Tips to Prepare Your Finances for the Next Emergenycy

Whether you’ve lived in central Alabama for five or 25 years, you likely have a tornado story to tell. Anyone who knows me personally knows how much I respect the weather. Each spring and fall, our community braces for severe weather. While we know storms will come, we never know exactly when, but being prepared helps keep me calm.

As a banker in Dixie Alley for the past 35 years, I have helped clients prepare financially for the unexpected. I’ve compiled a list of key steps that can help protect your finances before, during and after a natural disaster. It’s never too late to prepare and doing so now can make all the difference when it matters most.

Get organized

Start by gathering important information and documents: financial statements, legal paperwork, medical and insurance records and mortgage statements. If your home is damaged in a storm, these documents are often required to apply for assistance or insurance claims. Having them ready can speed up the recovery process.

FEMA’s Emergency Financial First Aid Kit, available at fema.gov, is a helpful resource with a full checklist. Keep these materials together in a waterproof container or folder so they’re easy to grab if evacuation is necessary.

Create physical and digital copies of documents

Once you’ve gathered your documents, make digital copies in case the physical copies become damaged. This is also a good time to enroll in digital banking tools like direct deposit and other electronic banking processes. These services allow you to access funds quickly and safely during an emergency.

Mark your calendar once a year – perhaps during tax season – to update digital files, account details and any insurance information that has changed.

Review your insurance coverage

You never want to discover a gap in your coverage after disaster strikes. That’s why it’s essential to review your insurance policies before you need them.

Understand the environmental risks in your area and make sure your coverage is appropriate for your property and location. Types include flood insurance, renters insurance, manufactured home coverage,

hurricane protection and more.

Take annual photos or videos of your home and assets to assist with insurance claims.

Build an emergency fund

MONEY MATTERS

Even if disaster assistance is available, you may need to cover costs immediately. An emergency fund is a financial safety net for essentials like food, transportation and temporary housing.

Teresa Grier

Ask your banker about creating a dedicated savings account that automatically takes a small amount of your paycheck each month. Even if you can postpone bill payments using assistance programs, this fund will allow you to cover immediate necessities without straining day-to-day finances.

Lean on your bank as a resource

Your banker can be an important partner in both preparation and recovery. From setting up automatic savings to accessing disaster relief programs, your bank can offer personalized guidance to help protect your financial well-being.

Whether you’ve weathered many storms or are preparing for your first, don’t wait until the next emergency to get ready. Visit your local Valley branch to build your family’s disaster preparedness plan today.

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

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

1. Kim Lothrop and Blair Eddings

2. Oliver James and Jenifer Melton

3. Gus Katechis

4. Patrick Walters, Kaia and Kasha Walters and Tallulah Barnett

Gill

5. C. Keen Zero

6. August and Andrea Gaddis

7. Sarah Cole

8. Erica Juszcyk, Bridget Murphy, Lara Bede and Grace Zalewsk

Friday, April 18, 2025

Charles E. Bailey Sportplex

1. Erin, Wyatt and Steven Whitehurst

2. Kayla and Byron Gibbs

3. Julianne, Jacob and Lindsay Meachum

4. Alexis Carter and Brooklyn Cottingham

5. Freddy Jones, Lera Jones and Rebecca Charsha

6. Adrian, Kristy and Darnel Whetstone

7. Holden Caldwell, Brooklynn Hawkins and Maci Pope

8. Cheryl, Carson, Eddie, Lila Kate, Grayson and Kaleigh Wiley

Saturday, May 3, 2025

The Stables at Russell Crossroads

1. Cameron Miller and Rebecca Perdue

2. Patsy Sikes

3. Mina O’ Brien Myers and Dawn Hirn

4. Jennifer, Jason and Jim Sawyer

5. Allie Hendrix and Lindee Ingram

6. Diane Laug and Tami Kneidinger

Saturday, March 22, 2025

Pennington Park

2.

4.

6.

1. Taliese Harris

Asia Patterson and Jordan Thomas

3. Buck Morris, Ricky Morgan and Pam Patterson

Robert Brandon, Ann Gordon, Greg Sanders and Caroline Harmon

5. Sara Stoecklin, Jeanie Abney and Barbara Reid

Jennifer Gregory and Rita Smith

1. Lamon Mckethern, JaMarkius Smith, Larry Butler, Trayeln Roberts and Tae Martin

2. Baylor Clayton and Dylan Bryant

3. Alijah Wood and Will Soloman

4. Larry Butler

5. Bowman Brumbeloe

6. Harrison Renfroe and Gaines Tapley

7. Johnathan Gardner and LD Bell

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Alexander City

1. Sam Carter and Macks Bishop

2. Russell Boren, Dillan Wade and Dan Allen

3. Koby Wiggins and Callen Gay

4. John Price and Ken Cowart

5. Payton Natali, Katelyn Cotton and Courtney Layfield

6. Jacob Smith and Nathan Winholtz

7. Ethan Strong

8. Daphne Grier, Sharon Moore, Miranda Allen and Beth Griffin

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT Calendar

RXR FEST

Free live music summer series returns to Russell Crossroads for two nights of entertainment

The highly anticipated RXR Fest returns to Russell Crossroads this summer on May 23-24, bringing two fun-filled nights of free live music to the community Memorial Day weekend.

The Bank Walkers, one of Lake Martin's favorite cover bands, will kick off the concert series Friday evening at 6:30 p.m. with a set that will have the crowd dancing and singing along. In addition, The Bank Walkers have added a number of new songs to their set for an exciting new experience for returning audience members.

Rock Into Summer

Russell Craig, one of Lake Martin's favorite bands, will be hitting the stage Friday night for RXR Fest, covering hit songs that will be sure to have the crowd on their feet and singing along.

Following The Bank Walkers, a familiar name in the Southern rock music scene will take the stage – Webb Wilder. Wilder is scheduled to begin his performance at 8 p.m. with a high-energy set of rock 'n' roll and classic Southern rock hits. Friday's lineup is sure to provide an exciting dose of entertainment and fun for

the whole family to enjoy. The series continues Saturday evening as Russell Crossroads welcomes another talented lineup of musicians to the stage.

Friday On The Green mainstay Russell Craig will be joined by his band to kick off the final night of live music at 6:30 p.m., lighting up the night with favorite ‘90s and country tunes.

Closing out the weekend is Connor Kelly and The Time Warp. Reviving the rock genre, Kelly has pulled inspiration from some of the biggest rock 'n' roll titans of all time for his music set, including artists such as Pink Floyd, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Radiohead.

Attendees of RXR Fest are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, cooler and pets on a leash for this exciting event.

May 12-13

Annie Kids

DPAC Children’s Musical

Experience a classic production brought to life with Annie Kids at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center. The musical begins at 6:30 p.m. and will be performed by the children of DPAC. Tickets are $5 in advance online or $10 at the door, if space allows. Tickets and information can be obtained at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

May 16

The Town Creek Ramblers Bluegrass Band at DPAC

Experience an unforgettable evening of toe-tapping tunes and heartfelt harmonies as bluegrass and Americana musicians Perry McCain and Bill Richardson take the stage with the Town Creek Ramblers. This special performance will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., showcasing the soulful sounds of traditional bluegrass and new grass music. Advance tickets are $10 online or $15 at the door. Kids attend free. For more details, visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com

May 24-25

Art on the Lake

Art on the Lake returns this year with another exciting lineup of shows for the summer. On both Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., a variety of talent will be on display at Russell Crossroads, with woodworks, paintings and many more unique creations to explore. The application fee is free until May 5. To apply online, visit russelllands.com/blog/events or contact Sydnee Riley via email at sriley@russelllands.com.

May 28

AACA Watercolor Workshop

Watercolorist Nancy Frommert will conduct a basic watercolor techniques workshop at the Senior Center at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The fee for the workshop is $25 for AACA members and $35 for nonmembers. To register, email Rebecca Mitchell at reb11mit@yahoo. com. The deadline to register is May 15.

LAKE REGION EVENTS

May 31

Introduction to Sailing

The Dixie Sailing Club will be hosting an Introduction to Sailing class from 10 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Scheduled activities include learning sailing basics, sailing a Sunfish, a capsizing and righting demonstration, lunch and more. Life vests are provided.Participants should bring a swimsuit, change of clothes, a towel and sunscreen. There is no fee for this event, but space is limited and registration is required. For additional information contact Keith Bennett at cat2221@msn.com or visit dixiesailingclub.com.

May 31

Real Island Volunteer Fire Department Community Appreciation Breakfast

Join the Reeltown Volunteer Fire Department from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. for an appreciation breakfast to thank the community for their support. The event is free and will also include updates on current status and upcoming activities of the fire department. All members of the community are invited to attend the event at the fire station located at 1495 Real Island Road, Equality. For more information call 334-857-323.

June

6 - 14

Sun Festival

Alexander City celebrates the season with eight days of fun, games, activities and events including the popular Tykes in Trucks, 5K run and medallion hunt. Find the full schedule of events in Lake and Lake Martin Living magazines and visit the Sun Festival Alexander City Facebook page.

June 7

Black Jacket Symphony

The Black Jacket Symphony will be returning to rock The AMP at Lake Martin for its Eagles’ Hotel California performance. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit blackjacketsymphony.com/tour-dates.

June 7

Tim Chirikalov Comedy Night

Enjoy stand-up comedy by Atlanta comedian Tim Chirikalov at The Lodge at Lake Martin from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tickets are $30 at the door and include

finger foods along with a cash bar. For more information, visit The Lodge at Lake Martin’sFacebook page or lakemartinlodge.com/events.

June 10-13 Youth Sailing

Camps

Set sail this summer with the Dixie Sailing Club’s Youth Sailing Camps, held June 10-13 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 767 New Hope Church Road in Alexander City. Open to ages 7 to 17, each session combines recreational sailing with hands-on instruction in boating, seamanship, water safety, navigation and STEMfocused marine science. The cost is $125 per session, per child, with sibling discounts available. For details, visit dixiesailingclub.com, find the club on Facebook or contact Jim Simons at dscypmail@gmail.com.

June 14-15

Jazz Fest

Alexander City Jazz Festival returns for a weekend of free live performances Friday evening at Strand Park and Saturday evening at The AMP. The lineup spans a wide range of genres, including blues, jazz, funk, soul, Americana, bluegrass and rock ‘n’ roll, offering something for every music fan. Admission is free. For more information, visit alexcityjazzfest.com.

June 17

Summer BBQ Social

Join the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber for its annual Summer BBQ Social at 5 p.m. at New Water Farms. Tickets are $30 and include food and beverages, along with live music from Blackberry Breeze. For more information and tickets, visit chamber@dadeville.com or call 256-825-4019. The last day to purchase tickets is June 10 at noon.

June 18

Wine Dinner featuring Holloran Winery

Join The Waverly Local as it celebrates the wonderful wines curated by Holloran Winery. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. Contact The Waverly Local at 334-539-6077 for more information and reservations.

LAKE REGION EVENTS

June 20

Town Creek Ramblers

Bluegrass Band

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, visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

June 24-27

Youth Sailing Camps

Set sail this summer with the Dixie Sailing Club’s Youth Sailing Camps, held June 24-27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 767 New Hope Church Road in Alexander City. Open to ages 7 to 17, the cost is $125 per session, per child, with sibling discounts available. For details, visit dixiesailingclub.com or Jim Simons at dscypmail@gmail.com.

June 27

Crepuscular Critter Hike

Join the Wind Creek State Park naturalist for an early morning wildlife excursion. Participants can meet at the front parking lot by the admissions office at 5:30 a.m. for a hike on the Alabama Reunion Trail. Contact dylan.ogle@dcnr.alabama.gov or visit alapark.com/events for more information.

July

4

4th of July Boat Parade

Enjoy a star-spangled celebration at one of Lake Martin’s most beloved holiday traditions—the annual Fourth of July Boat Parade, hosted by Russell Lands. Beginning at 10 a.m. from Kowaliga Marina, the parade cruises toward Children’s Harbor in a festive display of patriotic spirit and creativity. Prizes will be awarded for Tallest Flag, Largest Flag, Most Creative Theme and Most Patriotic Crew, with two winners in each category. First prize winners receive a $150 Russell Marine gift certificate, and the second-place prize is a $75 gift certificate. The best overall crew receives $500 in cash. For more information, call Kowaliga Marina at 256-397-1210.

July 4

4th of July Concert and Fireworks at The AMP

Celebrate the Fourth of July with an unforgettable evening at The AMP on Lake Martin featuring live music, family fun and the Southeast’s largest fireworks display. Festivities begin with musical performances sure to have the crowd singing along, followed by a stirring presentation of the National Anthem at 9 p.m. as a spectacular 30-minute fireworks show lights up the sky. After the show, the music continues with another highenergy set to close out the night. For the band lineup and ticket details, visit russelllands.com/blog/events.

July 5

Arti Gras

Russell Lands invites all to the 14th annual Arti Gras art show at Russell Crossroads on July 5. Carry on the excitement of the Fourth of July with a unique display of art, jewelry, pottery and more. The show will begin at 9 a.m. and last until 4p.m. Bring your friends and family to explore the diverse offerings at this vibrant makers market. To apply or for additional information, please contact Sydnee Riley at sriley@russelllands.com or 256-212-1431.

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 Lands invites Lake Martin to travel the lake drawing cards at 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). For more information, visit russelllands.com/blog/events.

July 24-27

Lake Martin Songwriters Festival

Get ready for an unforgettable musical experience at the 5th Annual Lake Martin Songwriters Festival, happening July 24-27. This nationally recognized event will feature 30 talented songwriters from across the Southeast, performing at 15 unique venues throughout the Lake Martin area. From intimate acoustic sets to lively outdoor shows, there’s something for every music lover. The festival will wrap up with a grand finale concert at The AMP. For the full live music schedule and participating venues, visit the Lake Martin Songwriters Festival Facebook page or lakemartinsongwritersfestival.com.

Season-long Events

Friday On The Green

Every Friday night all summer long (with the exception of RXR Fest, Jazz Festival, Fourth of July, 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.

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 the calendar at 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. For more information contact dylan.ogle@dcnr.alabama.gov.

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

Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc 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:

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DADEVILLE:

Alabama Power

Amazin' Grazin'

Boondocks

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Chuck's Marina

City Hall

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Renfroes

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Russell Realty on 49

Shell

Siggers

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The Cart Source

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TALLASSEE:

1220 Cafe

Chamber of Commerce

Community Hospital

Eagle

First Community Bank

Guardian Credit Union

Louie's Chicken Fingers

Mae Pops

Marathon

Red Hill Gallery

WETUMPKA:

First Community Bank

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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

Lake Martin Dock Company

Lake Martin Machine Gun

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Nails

Offshore Marina

Russell Do It Center

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On Island Time

Iam writing this from a 60-foot catamaran in the British Virgin Islands. It’s sunny with calm seas this morning. I intend to channel my inner Jimmy Buffett and great literary hero Pippi Longstocking this week as we sail the high seas and chase down the best lobster we can find.

Culture Shock

Pulling some history from our cruising guidebook, sailing and sailors have long been at the core of Virgin Islands history. Columbus takes credit for discovery in 1493 on his second voyage to the New World. Described as “the place on the way to everywhere,” the area was desirable for both trade and military advantage. He named the islands the Virgins in honor of St. Ursula and the 11,000 virgins who, according to legend, were martyred by marauding Huns in 4th-century Cologne – sacrificing their lives rather than submitting to fates worse than death.

Lacey Howell

bodied boat people – hailing from Lake Martin, the Midwest, California and Alaska. You moor at different harbors and islands and dinghy to shore.

The culture is lively. Most boat people plan theme nights and costumes. For us this week, it’s Baywatch, matching sets such as tacky Hawaiian-style outfits and Gilligan’s Island. John is the professor and plucked an old conch from the seafloor to use as a telephone, an idea inspired by the episode where the professor devises phone lines to get the group off the island.

This is my third time doing this trek, and it’s always a true adventure. So far, I’ve misjudged a hop into the dinghy and was soaked before dinner. I’ve paddle boarded, snorkeled, seen starfish and danced the night away to a Motown band at Saba Rock. Happiness is a short nap in the beanbags at the front of the boat –recharging and reading. Taking a deck shower off the back of the boat.

The beaches are white, and the water is clear. I’m slightly sunburned, and I’ve put my phone away for hours to swim and be present – an ever-increasing challenge in this day and age. We have to remember we owe the people around us our attention as much as we owe attention to our jobs and duties.

Piracy was constant as Europeans battled throughout the territories, unable to challenge Spanish dominance.

The Spaniards sailed through, carrying Mexican and Peruvian bullion to Spain until the last century, when the United States paid Denmark $25 million for the U.S. Virgin Islands to keep unfriendly foreign powers at bay.

Today, sailors travel from all over the world to island-hop the Virgins. Our group captains themselves, and it is a fortunate thing indeed to find yourself in the good company of sailors and able-

These trips always leave me refreshed and ready to tackle the next quarter of work. As lovely as the British Virgin Islands are and as tasty as the Painkillers are, I sure love my Lake Martin, and the margaritas at The Landing are hard to beat. I think all of us at the lake have a little pirate in us anyway, and I look forward to sharing in this summer’s debauchery with you all.

~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and love good wine. Follow her on Instagram @LaceyHowell.