Lake Martin Living January 2023

From

My favorite thing to do on New Year’s Day – please don’t judge me – is to set up the bookkeeping files for the year ahead. I’ve done it since my kids were young (and they’re nearly 30 now!). Keeping the books in order is one of the few New Year’s resolutions that didn’t fall by the wayside within a couple of weeks for me. I like an organized life, and starting the year with my files set up gives me a sense of grounding.

No matter how the next 12 months unravel, even if I fall one or two weeks behind on my entries, the bookkeeping system is solid.

I prepare the files on Jan. 1 because it sets me up for success in one area of my life. But I struggle to create successful systems for other aspects of life – eating healthier; exercising regularly; cleaning the house; and planning off-time for friends, community involvement and leisure.

Over the years, I’ve made some semblance of progress in these areas – OK, probably not in cleaning the house – but I eat a few more salads and veggies than I used to, even if I don’t eat five fruits or vegetables every day. And I pay better attention when my brain and my body tell me I need a walk or a workout, even if I don’t hit the gym at 7 a.m. three days a week. Now that public life has resumed after the COVID-19 shutdowns, I am getting back to life in the community – turn to page 40 to see the ACT II play I’m directing with Scears Barnes this spring.

Like Lacey Howell says in her article on page 50, I’m taking lessons in stride and getting better, not because I pressure myself to make huge advances but because a little progress now and then encourages me to keep trying.

I hope this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine encourages you to keep trying, to discover new approaches to the same old goals and to savor the incremental rewards.

Kick off a new approach to wellness through physical therapy. Breanna Manley offers a couple of options in her article on page 30. Or take a walk with a friend – a furry friend – and do something that’s good for both of you, as the story on page 26 recommends. Combine better nutrition with friend-time by making healthier choices for dining and drinking out. Erin Chesnutt spotlights a new such venue in this month’s “Go Local” article on page 10.

Organization connoisseur Katherine Denton shares a great clutterfree story and life lesson on page 14. And Lori Harrell suggests a plan for financial wellness in her New Year’s column on page 34.

Don’t give in to the pressure to change everything all at once or to make unrealistic advances toward lifestyle goals. Instead, set yourself up for success and appreciate the rewards you find as you keep trying.

Could make for a happier New Year.

Betsy Iler, Editor-in-Chief

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

Breanna Manley Lacey Howell Shane Harris Lori Harrell Gina Abernathy Audra Spears Cliff Williams Abigail Murphy Henry Zimmer Kaitlin Fleming William Marlow Katherine Denton Erin Chesnutt Audience Development Director Erin Burton

Marketing/Advertising Sales

Renee Trice Emily Gregg Marilyn Hawkins Sheryl Jennings

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.

Being a better pet parent could be the catalyst to success for other New Year’s resolutions, like getting more exercise and spending more time with those you love.

Local vets offer some tips on caring for your furry friends as you focus on living a fuller, happier life in 2023.

Photo by Kenneth Boone

Dadeville names Teacher of the Year

Dadeville Elementary School administrators last month named Teri Stephenson the 2022-23 Teacher of the Year.

Principal Diane Miller explained that the school honored Stephenson in particular for her passion for teaching, including her ability to establish relationships with students and parents and for embodying a holistic learning approach.

“Mrs. Stephenson is an amazing woman and teacher and is so deserving of this award,” Miller said.

Stephenson described the moment as a shock, adding she had been completely unaware of the nomination.

“I was very surprised. I’m surrounded by really good teachers, so part of me feels I wish I could give this award to many people because some of the best educators I have

Helping Children Grow Through the Years

DES Principal Diane Miller (right) congratulates kindergarten teacher Teri Stephenson, who was recognized as Teacher of the Year last month.

worked with are in this small town,” she said.

The award might have been a surprise, but Stephenson explained that teaching has been a lifelong joy, and she finds being an educator in Dadeville especially impactful.

“With Dadeville being a smaller town, you get to watch the kids grow up from kindergarten all the way until they graduate. So, it’s special to know that I got one year with them, and that I was a big part of their life,” she said.

~ William Marlow

New senior organization hits the ground running

The Cooper Recreational Senior Citizens Organization is already making a difference in the community.

The organization donated toys for three children to the Tallapoosa County Department of Human Resources. Annie L. Kendrick, president of the new group, said they knew they wanted to do something special for Christmas at only their second meeting.

“The mindset that I have is that I’m willing to share. I want to be a giver,” Kendrick said.

Kendrick said this group is about keeping seniors active in the community. While they are based in the Cooper Rec Center, people from all parts of Tallapoosa and Coosa counties are welcome to participate.

“I’m in and out at church and different activities, but I don’t see other senior citizens no more,” she said. “It’s like I’m pacing the world and the location of Alex City, Tallapoosa County and Goodwater and Coosa

County, and nobody’s out there, but me. I said, ‘Where are all the people?’ So, I want to bring our life back to activities.”

She made and handed out flyers encouraging seniors to join. At the first meeting, 13 people attended and about 15 at the second. Kendrick said at the next meeting, she is aiming to have members pledge $100 toward the group. This will allow them to go on some trips and prepare to do some outreach for the community.

The senior citizens organization is sponsored by Tallapoosa County Commissioner, T.C. Coley. For more information, call Kendrick at 256-749-1314.

~ Abigail Murphy

Be A Giver Cooper Rec Seniors was started to help senior citizens stay active and involved in the community. (Left to Right) Annie L. Kendrick, Laura Shelton and Angela McKinney presented Christmas gifts to DHR.

Tallassee Nutrition

STORY BY ERIN CHESNUTT PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER

Living a healthy lifestyle is something Auburn native Kacie Mackey has focused on for a long time. She has a Master’s Degree in Sports and Fitness Management, so when she opened Tallassee Nutrition two years ago, she knew the importance of providing her customers with healthy options for energy and immune support. The former gymnast and sports enthusiast attended The University of Mississippi and continued her studies at Troy University.

Mid-afternoon Meet Up

Left: Mackey's cozy shop is just around the corner from Barnett Boulevard on Ann Street; Above: Zoe Mulder and Kynslee Bishop chat over their favorite shakes at Tallassee Nutrition.

anyone interested in healthy low-calorie options. The small, inviting shop offers made-toorder drinks to go. The loaded teas are one of Mackey’s most popular offerings.

“Fitness and nutrition have always been something important to me, so this business just seemed right,” Mackey explained.

After attending a training course in Houston, Texas, Mackey moved back to the area.

“My plan was to pursue a career in medical sales,” explained Mackey. “Then, the pandemic hit. Those jobs just weren’t available, so I decided to open a business that would help keep people healthy.”

She wanted to open her new business in a small town that was seeing revitalization. Tallassee was exactly what she was looking for. Mackey had a friend who owned a nutrition beverage shop in another city, so she got in touch to find out how to get started. The shops are independently owned and operated, and owners purchase products from a supplier that provides everything needed to get up and running.

Tallassee Nutrition offers a variety of ways to help

If you’re looking for a quick boost of energy, the drinks have 175 milligrams of caffeine and only 24 calories, so it’s an energy drink that provides a boost without the calories or unhealthy additives of sodas. With COVID-19 and flu season in full swing, Mackey also offers a variety of teas that naturally support immune systems. The concoctions contain supplements, like zinc and Vitamin C, to help fight off common winter ailments.

There is even a kid’s menu of tasty teas for tots. These options eliminate the caffeine but help promote healthy choices.

The shop has become a popular spot with the postworkout crowd, as well. The nutritious shakes and smoothies are a great way to get extra protein after exercise.

The shop is located on South Ann Street with fitness centers close by making it an easy stop after a class. There are also meal replacement shakes available to take home for people who need quick meals. The 250-calorie shake is convenient but still a great way to retain a healthy eating program.

The shop is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Stop by and check out the variety of products that could help you keep that New Year’s resolution of focusing on health.

N e w N e w Y E A R Y E A R

usbank.com/mortgage

*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

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.

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

Declutter your life

When I was in my 20s, I went on a whirlwind tour of Europe. In six weeks, a friend and I toured 16 cities in eight countries, all while backpacking. Before I left, I stuffed all my favorite clothes and accessories, including luxuries like an army-grade blow-up mattress, into my oversized backpack. Whatever didn’t fit I crammed into a huge hip-high American Tourister suitcase with wheels. I had read that I could store it in a locker at the train stations in the cities we planned on visiting. Upon our arrival in Paris, we discovered that all the lockers were sealed and unusable, due to bomb threats. Our lives became obstacle courses as we navigated the new language, currency and culture while clinging to this suitcase full of our prized stuff.

Where we could go next was dictated by our need for a storage locker. We were advised that Amsterdam had lockers where we could store the suitcase. The cabby who took us back to the station charged us extra for using the trunk for the suitcase. The American Tourister became an entity, a force bigger than the two of us. It had needs, and its needs began to overshadow ours.

We found that the storage lockers in Amsterdam allowed us to feed enough money for only 24 hours of storage time, not indefinitely as we had

hoped. Over the course of the next few days, we rushed back to the locker to buy more time until … what? Did I really need this stuff?

At one point, I thought these things defined me. But now I was becoming someone different, someone who wanted to be free to enjoy my trip. I contemplated my attachment to these things from a past that no longer served me. I imagined dragging this American Tourister filled with my old stuff throughout Europe. I began to wonder how much I was willing to sacrifice in my present travels to hang onto my past.

One late night, we reached the end of the line at the Amsterdam train station where our campground was. As I struggled to pull the wheeled suitcase across the cobbled stone plaza, I almost ran into an art installation before me. It was a three-dimensional suitcase about three times the size of mine, and it was made out of red clay bricks. It looked heavy. It looked as though someone decided it was a burden and abandoned it before continuing on their journey. At that moment, I willed my suitcase to spontaneously combust. We returned to the train station the next day and placed the American Tourister in its final locker. We put enough coins in the slot to guarantee it would open in fewer than 30 minutes. The locker area was riddled with people lingering about, watching and waiting for some poor soul who didn’t make it back to retrieve the contents of a locker. It was like a game of musical chairs. Which locker would buzz next, and who would be close enough to pounce on its contents?

When the allotted storage time expired, our locker buzzed, announcing “free stuff,” and it popped open. Several people were at the ready. We watched as a vagrant and a young college student pulled the Tourister out, spilling its contents onto the cold hard floor. Shrieks of joy rang out as the homeless man fondled the blow-up mattress, and the young girl held my once-favorite clothes up to her body with a smile across her face. Something that caused us so much grief was the source of incredible happiness for these people.

There was nothing more freeing in that moment than the realization that I had put the past behind me and was free to live in the present moment unburdened. When I eventually returned to the States, I didn’t miss my once-prized possessions. I had a multitude of memories that, unlike stuff, could never be replaced.

Is your stuff keeping you from having the life you want? When your mindset changes from hanging onto the past to living in the present, your behavior will follow. At every turn, ask yourself, does this serve me now? Do I love it? Do I use it? Do I really need it? Would someone else use, wear, appreciate this item more than I do? Sometimes, the hardest part of unloading the stuff is getting started. Set a timer for 10 minutes and decide to use that limited amount of time to make decisions regarding your stuff. Do not overwhelm yourself.

Start with a drawer, not the entire desk. Start with a portion of your clothes rack. Do not pull all your clothes out of the closet. Seek ‘good enough’ over striving for perfection. You might find that when the timer goes off, you don’t want to stop. Organizing is its own reward.

A SIMPLE LIFE

Be patient with yourself. You will have set backs. Rome was not built in one day, just as your adventure in organizing will not be over after one session. It is a mindful, daily choice that you make in favor of having a more rewarding life now and in the future. If you need help, enlist a friend or professional organizer to keep you on track. Soon, it will become a habit and a new way of thinking. Before you know it, you will be living the life you want here and now.

Katherine Denton

~ Katherine Denton is a professional organizer, bookkeeper and personal assistant. For more tips, visit myfriendkatherine.com.

Armadillos

The state of Alabama is blessed with an abundance of wildlife diversity – deer, turkeys, fish, birds, butterflies, etc. But not all wildlife are looked upon favorably or as welcomed residents. Of all the wildlife-related calls the county Extension offices receive, the No. 1 complaint tends to be about armadillos. Yes, I’m referring to those “possums on the half-shell.” Those critters that like to wander into backyards at night and dig holes in the lawn, garden and flowers beds. They are nuisance animals that cause unsightly damage and give homeowners headaches.

There are approximately 20 species of armadillo worldwide, but only one species is found in the United States: the nine-banded armadillo. Not native to Alabama, armadillos were first seen around Mobile County in the 1940s, having expanded from Texas. They continued moving north and are now likely in every Alabama county except some of the northeastern mountainous areas.

The word armadillo means ‘little armored one’ in Spanish. The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is so named because of the nine moveable rings of armor between the shoulder and the hip shields. This animal has a long tail that also is protected by rings of armor. Three-toe prints and sharp claw marks are typical of armadillo tracks. Nine-banded armadillos are about 2.5 feet long from the nose to the tip of the tail and usually weigh an average of 12 pounds. Armadillos are about the same size as opossums.

Although armadillos eat insects, beetle grubs and other invertebrates, they sometimes are a nuisance, as they dig in lawns, golf courses, vegetable gardens and flower beds. It is their annoying feeding habits that make them particularly troublesome around the home lawn and landscape. Armadillos root about in ground litter

searching for earthworms, grubs, spiders and insect larvae, as well as for small amounts of fruit and vegetable matter, such as berries and tender roots.

Sure calling cards and evidence an armadillo has visited your property are the small holes and the disturbed soil. Armadillo damage on the ground is often 1 to 3 inches deep and 3 to 5 inches wide. Disturbing the vegetation in loose soils, in particular, could cause cosmetic damage to lawns and gardens.

'Possum on the Half-Shell

Previous Pages: This most infamous of garden pests has long, sharp claws and a voracious appetite for bugs, slugs and vegetables; Top: Even the armadillo's tail is armored; Above: Armadillos dig holes that are 1 to 3 inches deep and 3 to 5 inches wide.

While searching for food, armadillos seem oblivious to all else and may come very close to human beings before becoming alarmed. They have poor eyesight and hearing but keen sense of smell. Despite looking clumsy, they often jump straight up in the air when startled; then, they quickly run off. This odd behavior greatly reduces their chances of surviving an encounter with a vehicle. Armadillos make a great deal of noise traveling through the woods; many deer hunters have been disappointed to discover that the trophy buck they heard in the leaves was just a pesky armadillo digging around for food.

Armadillos burrow in the ground and have strong legs adapted for digging. Their burrows are usually 7 to 8 inches in diameter and up to 15 feet in length. Their burrows

are commonly located under rockpiles, stumps, brushpiles and dense cover. Armadillos dig several burrows within an area to use for escape. Some damage has been caused by their burrowing under foundations, driveways, patios and other structures.

Controlling armadillos is a tough task since they are mainly nocturnal. They move around primarily from twilight to early morning hours in the summer. In the winter, they may be active and seen during the day. Homeowners also have limited options to control armadillos and prevent damage – removing food sources, trapping, fencing or shooting them.

Armadillos feed on invertebrates in the ground, so the first step is to eliminate the food source in the area. Applying an insecticide labeled for grubs and other insects to the lawn will often force armadillos to look elsewhere for food; however, ridding the soil and vegetation of all insects, worms and grubs may not be practical and may be detrimental to the plants and other life-forms in the area.

Live traps can be used to catch problem armadillos but with rare success. Bait them with nightcrawlers, frozen crickets or over-ripe fruits, such as bananas and apples. These traps may be more effective when wooden plank

boards are added to funnel the animal into the trap. Place the traps in the area where damage has occurred; for example, around and along the house. Research shows armadillos are more likely to enter a cage trap when leaf litter or soil is placed over the wire bottom. According to conservation enforcement officers, Alabama nuisance wildlife laws state that animals captured in live traps must be terminated and cannot be transported or released in other areas.

GARDEN TALK

visiting yards, so odds of seeing and actually shooting them is low. This option requires constant observation and possibly sleepless nights.

If the damage is isolated to a garden area, an electric fence may be effective. A single strand 3 to 4 inches off the ground should be sufficient. Polytape electric fence wire with a New Zealand-type charger makes an effective and safe exclusion device. Laying chicken wire along a patio, driveway or house foundation also discourages them from burrowing. No toxicant, fumigants or repellents are registered for armadillo control, so don’t believe everything you hear and read.

The most effective control method is shooting them. If you live in a place that allows the legal discharge of a firearm, you might consider eliminating them in this manner. Armadillos in Alabama have an open hunting season and are not protected in any way; however, local regulations and city ordinances on discharging firearms may prohibit this activity. Even tougher, armadillos are active at night and don’t have predictable schedules for

Armadillos have been known to carry the bacterium associated with human leprosy, but there has been no conclusive evidence that human beings contract leprosy from contact with armadillos. While the health threat from armadillos may be minimal, they do have very sharp claws, so take precautions to not handle or touch a living or deceased armadillo.

Unfortunately, there is not a 100 percent effective and easy means of controlling annoying armadillos. What works for some may not work for others. Experiment with a few methods, and let me know what works for you. Good luck, and I hope you get the critter. For help on other home and garden questions, contact your local county Extension office or visit aces.edu.

~ Shane Harris is the Tallapoosa County Extension Coordinator for the Alabama Cooperative Extension.

The Harriott II Riverboat offers an experience like no other when planning your rehearsal dinner or wedding reception. Enjoy a cruise down the Alabama River as you celebrate your special day with family and friends. The elegant 19th century riverboat will make your day memorable.

Call Joanna Hoggle at 334.625-2100 to schedule your event or email her at jhoggle@montgomeryal.gov

Every love story is beautiful... but yours is our favorite!

Shane Harris

Because of You

Right place, right time for LMAUW executive director

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

Ayear has passed since Courtney Layfield stepped into the executive director position at Lake Martin Area United Way. Though she’s thankful for the support of her predecessor, Sharon Fuller, she’s eager to put her own spin on the position. Combining the old with the new is Layfield’s forte, and with a year already under her belt, the nonprofit is moving forward as Layfield leads the way.

Through her new position as executive director, Layfield has had to learn a lot of new things about United Way and the relationship it has with the community.

“I have had to learn relationships with our donors, workplaces and our agencies on a different level and develop relationships with each one myself. I’ve had to learn how our local United Way fits with the United Way World brand and the perceptions of each. Thankfully, this local United Way has a long history of support from the community, and I want to continue that. I want to help educate the public more on what we do, how we help the community and how they can play a part, too,” Layfield explained.

Originally from Atlanta, Layfield found her way to the Lake Martin area in 2015 with her husband of 16 years, DJ, and her son, David, 14. Before becoming involved with United Way after the move, Layfield was still working for the Georgia Dental Association, which she had been part of for 13 years.

“My husband had actually volunteered with United Way. He had worked on some of the Day of Action projects because the company he works for encourages volunteerism. When I was looking for a job locally, I came into United Way, really with the intent of just volunteering and getting my foot in the door. I wanted to get established in the community and meet more people, and there just happened to be a job position open. It was the right-place, right-time kind of thing,” Layfield explained.

Before taking on the role as executive director, Layfield spent five years as the organization’s marketing and initiatives director. According to Layfield, despite so many community members being involved, only three people have active, everyday roles in the LMAUW office.

With her new position, Layfield hopes to reach an even bigger audience within the community through the experience and first-hand knowledge she’s gathered since joining the staff.

“Obviously, I would like to see us grow in the number of lives we can touch and help every year. I’d also like to

see us grow the campaign because the more we bring in, the more we can do. It’s certainly been tough as we’ve been recovering from the pandemic. There’s been challenges with that. We want to increase the awareness about United Way and the services that we and our partner agencies provide to the community,” Layfield said.

Layfield believes the impact of what LMAUW does in the community is sometimes lost in communication. She hopes to not only raise awareness of available services, but also to let community members know that there’s an active United Way organization in the area willing to step up and help when needed.

“We’re more than just a fundraising organization, we do a lot of things outside of fundraising that I want people to be aware of,” Layfield explained.

United Way is currently hard at work on the 2023 campaign. The theme of the ongoing campaign is “Because of You.” Organization members, including Layfield, are talking to businesses and other organizations about how businesses and individuals could help the organization make progress through donations.

“Luckily, this year it’s been great. We’ve been able to get out to a lot more workplaces to do the workplace campaigns and talk to employees, show our video, more of that personal touch than we’ve been able to do the last couple of years due to the pandemic,” Layfield said.

She is thankful for the opportunity to get back out in the community and reconnect with people through her first year as executive director. Building new relationships and building upon existing relationships is very important to her as she continues to explore her new position with United Way.

“Stepping in after a very successful person before me with big shoes to fill was intimidating at first. I decided early on to keep things going as they had been and look at ways to make it work best for me as time went on. I’m trying to put my stamp and my voice on our United Way while honoring those that built it before me,” Layfield said.

To learn more about United Way or Layfield and the rest of the team, visit the Lake Martin Area United Way at 17 Main St. in downtown Alexander City or call 256-329-3600. Layfield can be reached directly at courtney.layfield@ unitedwaylakemartin.org.

Making a Difference

Courtney Layfield puts her own spin on the executive director's role at Lake Martin Area United Way.

"The more we bring in, the more we can do."

~ Courtney Layfield LMAUW Executive Director

Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder

Today we are making something savory, super simple and one of my favorite chowder recipes. This chowder is made on the stovetop, so grab a large pot or Dutch oven, and let’s get busy.

We love soup at our house, especially chowders, for their satisfying and creamy texture. This soup is filling, warm, hearty and delicious. It’s full of tasty ingredients that make you feel good inside.

GOOD EATS

absorbed. Add spices. Drizzle chicken broth into the pan slowly while stirring and mixing. Add water. Add potatoes, chicken and corn.

Bring to a boil; and then, reduce to a medium simmer. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender – about 20 to 25 minutes.

Add half and half, milk and cheese. Bring chowder back to a simmer and cook for about 5 more minutes.  Crumble bacon over the top and serve with cornbread, toasted bread, tortilla chips, saltines or oyster crackers.

Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder gets its flavor from a classic and simple mix of onion, celery, bell pepper and garlic. Potatoes add creaminess while the bacon adds savory flavor. This is the coziest of soups and will keep you craving more. A real comfort food and a family favorite. It’s the perfect soup to eat on a cold day. It makes a lot, so be hungry or share with friends.

Ingredients

8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

1/4 cup butter

1 medium onion, diced

3 stalks celery, chopped

1 bell pepper, red or green, diced

1 jalapeno, diced, seeds removed

1 tablespoon garlic, minced 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt and pepper

3/4 teaspoon paprika

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup water

1 pound Yukon Gold or Red potatoes (not peeled), or

2 large Russet potatoes (peeled), cubed and cut into 1-inch pieces

2 cups cooked chicken, diced

1 16-ounce package frozen corn

1-1/2 cups half and half

2 cups milk

2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Optional: green onions, sliced jalapenos

Serve with cornbread, crackers or corn chips

Instructions

Cook bacon until crisp. Remove from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Set aside. Allow bacon to cool; then, crumble or chop into small pieces. Save 1/4 cup of the bacon fat and add butter and melt. Add onion, celery, bell pepper and jalapeno. Cook until veggies are nice and soft, about 10 minutes, stirring often.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add flour and stir until completely

Tips

n Use a rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to speed up this recipe.

n If you don’t have half and half,or heavy cream, whole milk will work fine.

n The jalapeno is optional but adds just a touch of heat.  n Use an immersion blender to blend about half the soup until smooth for a thicker and creamier chowder, if desired.

n Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are the best for this chowder. When using Russet potatoes, I like to peel them before adding them to the mix.

n Stir in cooked bacon before serving or add it as a topping.

Recommended Toppings

n Shredded cheddar cheese n Bacon n Chopped green onions

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. I do not recommend freezing soups containing cream, as the dairy may separate, making the consistency and texture not as smooth as it should be.

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

Gina Abernathy

Everyday Grandeur

Tucked away on the outskirts of Auburn University at the world-class Grand National Golf Course, the award winning National Village offers everything you’ll ever need for the way you want to live. The thoughtfully crafted master planned community features georgeous homes designed by national award winner Larry Garnett and built by Ab and Don Conner at Conner Bros. Construction Co., Inc., a local company with more than 100 years of experience. With the Marriott at Grand National on site, residents enjoy championship golf, miles of picturesque nature trails and lakes for fishing, spa and pool. National Village is truly an unbelievable place to live – inside or out. Plus, thanks to the high speed fiber optic network of Opelika (Alabama’s first Gig City), our homeowners enjoy some of the Nation’s fastest internet for any work- or learn-from-home requirements.

TO LEARN MORE, CALL US AT 334.749.8165 OR VISIT WWW.NATIONALVILLAGE.COM.

Resolve to be a better pet parent

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY

Instead of making the typical resolutions, like losing weight or cutting out junk food, try thinking of ways to share resolutions with your furry friends.

Pets are beautiful additions to families, so why should taking care of them like regular family members be difficult? Just like humans, pets need their basic needs met to function properly and live long and happy lives. This includes regular visits to the vet, exercise and well-balanced diets, among other necessities.

The number of times a pet needs to visit the vet per year depends on a slew of factors, but local vets recommend at least once each year as a good rule of thumb.

It’s imperative to keep a watchful eye on

vaccinations and make sure young pets receive a general checkup around once a month. Doing so could ensure they are safe from dangerous diseases.

When your animal reaches adulthood, vet visits could be less frequent, perhaps once a year and/or when you, as a pet owner, have cause for concern. These yearly visits could include updates on shots as well as a checkup on overall health.

When your pet enters the senior years, vet visits could ramp up slightly. Just like people, age can bring on additional health risks and complications that may need further attention.

There are some health concerns owners should look out for throughout a pet’s entire life. Pets that live in the South are subjected more often to the possibility of acquiring heartworm and/or fleas, said

“The biggest thing in the South when it comes to your pet’s health is heartworm and flea prevention. Owners typically don’t think about it. It’s something you must do every single month, and sometimes, it just gets forgotten about. Some people don’t know about it. Some people don’t realize you need heartworm prevention. Even if you don’t see worms, it doesn’t mean your pet doesn’t have them. Some of them are completely microscopic, and you don’t see them,” Fagan explained.

With the microscopic nature of the heartworm or flea, it could be hard for pet owners to notice until the summertime when it often ramps up. If found too late, it can take months to rid your pet

and your home of fleas, which tend to reproduce at an alarming rate. To ensure your pet’s safety, it’s vital to keep constant supervision over them and have frequent vet visits and consultations.

Happy and Healthy Keep pets healthy with attention to diet, exercise and vet visits.

To keep your furry friends healthy, talk to your veterinarian about any concerns or questions you have regarding your pet’s health.

“Definitely make sure your pets are getting their well visits to the vet. It’s something, if you get a new puppy, that you make sure you do. Also keep the shots up to date. A lot of people here in the South just worry about rabies, and it’s important to do the heartworm prevention. Heartworms are caused by

Alexander City Vet Clinic Office Manager Laura Fagan.

mosquitos. If your pet isn’t on a preventative, it could be harmful to the pets,” Lake Martin Animal Shelter Director Kim Hall said.

Vet visits take care of your pet’s health-related needs, but it’s up to you as the owner to make sure exercise is instilled in your pet’s daily routine. Much like the number of vet visits per year, the amount of exercise your pet needs depend on the type and breed.

Some dogs require more exercise than others, but even their recommended exercise changes as they progress through life. Look at resources online or ask your veterinarian for ways to enhance your dog’s exercise routine.

Although letting your furry friends run around is a great way to keep them active, taking them on a walk is another healthy activity that establishes a steady routine they look forward to each day. With the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be easier to view walking your dog as a chore than a way to spend quality time with them and get a bit of fresh air and exercise for yourself.

Not only does a quick walk around the neighborhood contribute time to their daily exercise, but it also gives you a chance to unwind after a busy day. Whether you choose an early morning walk or a midafternoon walk, your pets will cherish time spent with you each day.

Another way to put your pet first at the start of the New Year is by keeping up with their grooming needs. Much like us, animals need their nails clipped, hair washed and maybe even a cute bow from time to time. Luckily, there are a couple ways to keep your pets looking their best. Pet stores and local spots, such as Talli and Friends and Southern Star Pet Grooming, are great options.

Oftentimes, pet owners are unsure of how to train their pets by themselves. Keeping your dog from being too rambunctious could be beneficial in instances when they are around a large group of people, kids or even other animals. Training classes are available throughout the area and could ensure pets understand basic commands and practice good behavior.

“You don’t realize that training is just for you to get them to have behaviors that you like, but it tires out their brains, and it engages them at a different level. Everyone has these Christmas puppies; do some training. It helps their behaviors, and it will tire out their little puppy brains, so they aren’t getting into trouble,” Fagan explained.

Take these tips into the New Year to ensure your pet lives a long and happy life. Instilling these quick tips, tricks and practices into your pets’ lives could not only make your pet happier, but also, it could help you grow an even stronger connection with your furry loved ones.

Pamper Your Pets

Top to Bottom: Regular exercise enhances your relationship with your pet; Protect pets from diseases carried by fleas, ticks and mosquitos; Diet plays a significant role in pet health; Regular checkups at the vet help keep pets healthy.

On a journey to live a healthier life or looking to lose those holiday pounds, going it alone is not the only option; it also could be the toughest route to take.

Physical therapy is a great starting point. Though oftentimes seen as a form of rehabilitation following an injury, physical therapy could improve quality of life for all ages. Primarily, a physical therapist would focus on helping to improve mobility, strength and flexibility.

Riley Goree opened Phoenix Physical Therapy in November and is eager to help local residents with their fitness journey.

“Anybody can benefit from therapy, whether it be flexibility through the stretching or relieving muscle tension. We treat the elderly for balance issues, because around that age is when you start having the falls. Also, just the movement part of it. Staying mobile is huge,” Goree explained.

Physical therapy uses equipment focused on increasing mobility and flexibility. But with direction from a physical therapist, at-home exercises could help to continue physical therapy from the comfort of home.

“One of the most common misconceptions about physical therapy is that it’s painful and torturous, and it’s not,” Goree said.

Goree first heard about physical therapy from a friend while she

was attending Auburn University. She’s been fascinated by the different ways therapy can impact others ever since. On her return to her husband’s hometown of Alexander City, she knew it was time to open a business and dedicate herself to helping others with their fitness and wellness journeys.

“I just love the whole aspect of it. You have the health, wellness and just how the body moves. I’m a big believer in ‘you lose it if you don’t use it.’ It’s important to keep those components moving and not being sedentary,” Goree explained.

New physical therapy patients often are apprehensive about starting therapy, but Goree believes it can turn into something that not only helps but also becomes enjoyable.

“I just want the people who come in here to enjoy it and be comfortable. It’s important to know why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve been doing this for 15 years, and now, it’s more of a knowledge and experience treatment,” Goree said.

Along with the physical part of physical therapy, Goree and other therapists in the field connect

Try Something New

Above: A variety of equipment helps to change up an old routine at Total Fitness; Right: Riley Goree (left) helps a patient rebuild muscle memory and flexibility through physical therapy.

Physical

with their patients and develop relationships to understand their limits and responses. Doing so helps ensure that treatment plans benefit patients and contribute to healthier, more comfortable lifestyles.

Located at 163 Alabama St. in Alexander City, Phoenix Physical Therapy is open 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Referrals from your primary doctor are needed to begin physical therapy sessions.

Another physical therapy option in Alexander City is Total Fitness at Russell Medical Center, a dedicated setting where therapists and specialists collaborate on services.

Physical therapy is just one of the many services offered at Total Fitness and features a dedicated group of boardcertified specialists and therapists ready to assist.

motivation in starting a wellness journey with physical therapy.

“Patients come to us to go from their current level of fitness to a higher level of fitness. They want to be active. People are living longer and surviving their health issues. They want a quality of life. Physical therapy is a great jumping off point because we can address pretty much all aspects of what their needs are, and if we don’t have the answers or can’t provide directly, we can connect them with people who can,” Korte said.

Korte said he sees most of his patients graduate from physical therapy and move on to other physical activity programs due to an increase in agility, strength and mobility.

Aesthetics and Convenience Have an Impact

A comfortable setting in a downtown location enhance the mood and relax patients, so they can focus on the treatment or workout with less anxiety.

Jak Korte, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Total Fitness RMC, believes along with the patients they see on a daily basis as a result of injury, they also see patients suffering and dealing with impairments related to mobility or strength.

“When a patient presents with an impairment of mobility or strength, we address that. We rebuild you, recondition you and get you back to doing the simple things that we take for granted like bathing, dressing and being able to sit up without being short of breath or fainting. Dysfunction typically brings patients to us. We also have a lot of young and old people that come here just wanting to improve the quality of their lives,” Korte explained.

According to Korte and Michelle Ray, an orthopedic clinical specialist for physical therapy at Total Fitness, creating and maintaining close connections with patients helps them alter regimens. She also strives to understand the patient’s

Korte echoed Goree’s sentiments regarding physical therapy being much more than just aiding with physical ailments.

“We have to work with them from a mental standpoint, from a motivation standpoint. Pain is a good motivator because you don’t want to be in pain, but a lot of times it’s a level of effort to put forth exercise, and that’s why patients and clients benefit from professional structure,” Korte explained.

“Moving out of physical therapy into other fitness programs is easy. It’s an easy transition because we just talk directly to the fitness instructor or personal trainer. We let me know if a patient is still struggling with something,” Ray explained.

Total Fitness operates Monday through Thursday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Referrals from a primary doctor are required to begin physical therapy sessions.

Whether you need guidance, encouragement or a helping hand, physical therapy clinics are there to lead the way when physical therapy is your jumping in point for better health and quality of life.

Give your finances a New Year check-up

This past year presented some financial challenges for many of us. For investors, the stock market retreated following a few years of strong growth, while inflation is impacting everyone.

These trends indicate it might be beneficial to consider making some adjustments to financial plans, to prepare for what 2023 has in store.

Here are five main areas to revisit and reevaluate as part of a New Year financial check-up.

Personal and business plans

MONEY MATTERS

Ideally, you would have a business plan and a personal plan. Sit down to examine the goals for each and assess where you stand. Meet with your banker, who could offer specific insights and possible adjustments to your plans to keep you on track with your goals. Even if you must be more conservative in the short term, making those decisions now will set you up for future success.

Cash flow

As you examine your finances, determine if you have enough cash to support your lifestyle and upcoming expenditures, particularly in the face of the current market and inflation. For example, you might have to adjust the budget originally set for that dream wedding or for a college fund.

Credit cards

Look at the interest rates attached to each of your credit cards. Particularly if you are carrying balances on your cards, you should consider moving to a card with a lower interest rate. Because many people use credit cards for those unexpected financial expenditures, having a low-interest credit card would allow you to pay for any surprises without having to dip into your savings.

Harrell

Investments

Now is a good time to reexamine and update your investments. Work with a financial professional to run a diagnostic on your portfolio and consider diversifying your investments, if you haven’t already done so. The key is to be sure your investments are not concentrated in a particular asset class or sector. A professional will give you specific ways to help minimize risk, particularly in this market that has potential for recession.

Life insurance

It’s surprising that even when people check to make sure their fire alarms are working, they still struggle to keep their life insurance or financial beneficiary information updated. As family members age or pass away, or people get married or divorced, your selection for beneficiaries may need to change. In addition, review the policy amounts to be sure they are a match for your stage and situation of life.

Delving into finances might seem like a chore, especially in the New Year, but it would serve you to stay on top of things. If you have key plans in mind, you need a clear picture of your financial situation as you head into the New Year.

To make the process more enjoyable, perhaps even fun, I encourage clients to incorporate these financial discussions into activities you know you’ll enjoy, like an outing or even a weekend trip. You never know, it might just become something you actually look forward to.

~ Lori Harrell has been a retail market manager for Valley Bank for more than 10 years. She works with both the Mill Square branch in Alexander City and the Dadeville branch.

Lori

FEATURED EVENT Calendar

ACT II announces auditions

Alexander City Theatre II will hold auditions for “Inherit the Wind,” its biggest production yet on Jan. 21, 22 and 23 at 216 Tallapoosa St. in Alexander City. Written by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee in the 1950s, the play includes speaking roles for 26 men, six women, two young boys and one young girl. It will be ACT II’s first serious drama since the all-volunteer, nonprofit organization staged Thornton Wilder’s “Our Town” in 2017. Performances will be held April 28-30 at Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium.

“Inherit the Wind” was inspired by the infamous Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925, in which a schoolteacher in Dayton, Tennessee, was arrested and tried for teaching Darwin’s theory of evolution in violation of state law. Though the play is not a historical account of the trial, it does follow the goings on in a small Southern town where a schoolteacher finds himself on trial. The focus of the script explores the right of

Classic Roles

"Inherit the Wind" by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee includes roles for 28 men and seven women.

a human being to think.

The play, which will be directed by Scears Barnes and Betsy Iler, will be produced in period costume. More than half of the speaking roles are small parts with fewer than 10 lines. The largest roles are those of the prosecuting and defense attorneys, Col. Matthew Brady and Henry Drummond, respectively. Both lawyers are highly reputable barristers who direct national attention to the smalltown proceedings.

The largest female roles are those of Rachel Brown, who is the defendant’s girlfriend, and Mrs. Brady, the

Auditions will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21; 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 22; and 6 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 23. For more information, call Barnes at 256-794-3194

Jan. 10

Sign Language Classes

Adelia M. Russell Library is offering free sign language classes to the public. The first class will be at 2 p.m. Jan. 10. Please email amrl@alexandercityal.gov to sign up or learn more.

Jan. 10 Goldpine

Join Zazu’s Verandah and The Destination at 6:30 p.m. inside Zazu’s Listening Room for live music with friends.

Jan. 18-March 8

Beginners Quilting Lessons

Meet at Zazu’s Verandah from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesdays to learn how to create traditional to modern quilt squares. The emphasis in this class will be on techniques. Upon the completion of the class, you will have a 58-inch by 72-inch quilt. Cost for the class is $150. Text your email address to Zazu’s Verandah at 256-307-2188 to receive an application. Class is limited to 10 students.

Jan. 19-22

Lakeside Marina Boat Event

There will be food, fun, entertainment and giveaways at this year’s annual boat event at Lakeside Marina.

Starting Jan. 23 Free Tax Assistance and e-filing

Certified IRS volunteers will provide free tax assistance and electronically file federal and state income tax forms through Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama for senior citizens age 60-plus with no income limit and for taxpayers under 60 with incomes less than $60,000. Recipients of this service must make an appointment by calling 256-234-0347 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday. Please wear a mask to the appointment. Bring last year’s tax return, a photo ID, social security cards for taxpayers and dependents, W-2s, 1099s and 1095-A, if health insurance is through the government marketplace.

Jan. 27

Beverly Ceasar

Ceasar and her band will appear at Dadeville Performing Arts Center at

LAKE REGION EVENTS

6:30 p.m. Advance tickets are $10 at dadevilleperformingarts.simpletix.com. If available, tickets will be $15 at the door.

Feb. 15

Open Studio Panel

Artists Association of Central Alabama will host a panel of successful artists in different mediums, as well as a gallery business owner, to talk about their paths to success and answer questions from the audience. The event will start at 9:30 a.m. at the Alexander City Senior Center at the Sportplex. Lunch will be served after the panel presentation. Cost to non-members is $10, which can be applied toward AACA membership. Email June Dean at junedeansart@gmail.com or call her at 334-313-7533.

Feb. 20

Lake Martin Wedding & Event Expo

The Mitchell House is the perfect setting for this annual event for Lake Martin brides. Meet with caterers, florists, event center representatives and more to plan your dream wedding at the lake in one day. Admission is $10 and helps to support Lake Martin Area United Way agencies.

Feb. 25

Russell Forest Run Register now for this year’s run through Russell Forest to benefit the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. Join the 10K or the 5K race at Russell Crossroads or run the race virtually. Entry fee is $40 for all options. This is an out-and-back race over a certified course that includes sand, clay and gravel roads designed for runners, bicycles and electric cars. The race will finish near The Stables for the post-race party, including the World Famous Grits Bar, live music and more. This annual race has raised more than $100,000 for local schools. For more information and registration link, visit russellforestrun. com.

Feb. 25

Lake Watch Annual Meeting

Lake Watch will hold an annual general membership meeting at First Baptist Church in Dadeville, 178 S. Tallassee St. Registration begins at 1:30 p.m. with business conducted from 2 p.m. to 3:30

p.m. Please use the Cass Street entrance. Visit lakewatch.org for information.

Feb. 26

Daddy-Daughter Dance

The Friendship Fire Department will host a Daddy-Daughter dance from 6 p.m to 9 p.m. at the fire hall in Tallassee. Get dolled up for an enchanting evening under stars with dinner, music, formal pictures and memories to last a lifetime. Entry is $35 per couple. Order tickets at daddydaughterdancetallassee.eventbrite. com or text 334-415-9034 for more information.

Season-long Events

Artists Association of Central Alabama

AACA artists meet on the third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex grounds with a general meeting followed by open studio. Club dues are $20 for the year.

Dulcimer Club

All levels of mountain dulcimer and blending traditional instruments are invited to gather at Dadeville Performing Arts Center from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Thursdays to rehearse for performances at a variety of community events. Club fee is $25 annually. Performer memberships, patron memberships or quarterly memberships are $30. Email kim.walls@ dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

Wellborn Musclecar Museum

Housed in a restored vintage auto dealership in downtown Alexander City, the Wellborn Musclecar Museum collection of great American automobiles of the 1960s and 1970s is open for public viewing Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission for adults is $11; children ages 7 to 17 admitted for $7, and children ages 6 and under are admitted for free. To arrange discounted group tours or private tours, email wellbornmusclecarmuseum@gmail.com or call 256-329-8474.

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

LAKE REGION EVENTS

and ages, this class will teach students to read, write, play, sing and move to music rhythms. No need to know how to read music to start. The class will use a variety of classroom instruments, such as percussion, recorders and hand bells. No materials necessary. Email kim.walls@ dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

Volunteers in Alexander City and Dadeville are encouraged to participate in community partnership cleanups every month. In Alexander City, the cleanups are held on the third Saturday of the month. Meet at Our Town Volunteer Fire Department at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. Contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289. In Dadeville, the monthly cleanup is held on the second Saturday of the month, and volunteers can pick up sanitized pickers and bags at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall. There also will be a trash bag drop-off on site. Contact Mickey Forbus at 334-329-0905.

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.

Library Storytime in Dadeville

Storytime for children ages 5 and younger is held at the Dadeville Public Library every Tuesday at 10 a.m.

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschoolaged and younger children.

Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit

The Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony on Lake Martin exhibit is on display all year long at the Alexander City Board of Education building at 375 Lee St.

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. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

Meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus. Participants come and go from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5 p.m., followed by show-and-tell. Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.

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, 1495 Real Island Rd., 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. For more information, 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. Dinner

and fellowship follow at a local area restaurant. Contact Michael Courtney at 256-825-7766 or Mike Smith at 256750-5710.

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, just to mention a few. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature in the wild and the outdoor classroom. Visit RussellLands.com/blog/events for the scheduled subjects, dates and times.

Fourth Fridays at EPAC

The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the fourth Friday nights of each month at 6:30 p.m. on state Route 9 in Equality. Visit the Equality Performing Arts Center Facebook page for a schedule of upcoming artists.

Charity Bingo at Niffer’s Place

Lake Martin

Niffer’s, 7500 state Route 49 in Dadeville, hosts charity bingo every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Cards are $1 each, and funds go to participating charities.

Tallassee Lions Club

The Tallassee Lions Club meets every Tuesday at Cozumel Restaurant, across from the football stadium in Tallassee, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. The public is welcome to join for an hour of humor, information, civic pride and patriotism. For more information, call Marilyn Speake at 334-283-6864 or email her at marilyn.speake@tcschools.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. For more information, email Richard Penton at drichardpenton@gmail.com.

Marinas

Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

3. River North Marina 256-397-1500 250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

3. Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700

19 Russell Marine Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's Froyo 256-444-8793 smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com

Restaurants & Venues

8 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Acapulco Mexican Grill 334-283-2725

2867 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee, AL 36078

Business & Shopping

Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853

The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 334-857-1816

8610 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

Dark Insurance 256-234-5026

www.darkinsuranceagency.com

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010

Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853

Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847

21300 Hwy. 280, Dadeville, AL 36853

Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717 8421 Hwy. 50, Dadeville, AL 36853

Hotels & Lodges

Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440 6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches

Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820 8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853

Lake Pointe Baptist Church 8352 AL-50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293

Dock Builders

Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400 6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment

Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

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

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

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.

Alexander Landscaping 8

Alex City Marine 51

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation 6

C&C Wood Products 6

Coosa Valley MRI 49

DeepWater Dock 43

Diamond Golf Cars 43

Docks 911 49

Electronic Technology Group 49

Four Seasons 49

George Hardy, D.M.D 6

Grove Station 13

Harriott II Riverboat 19

Heritage South Credit Union 8

Highway 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 49

Jack Ingram Motors 12

Jes & Gray Living 3

Jim DeBardelaben 47

Karen Channell, State Farm 49

Kowaliga Whole Health 49

Lake Martin Dock 29, 49

Live Oak Caregivers 47

MedHealth Home Care 5

National Village 25

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery 47

Precise Pressure Washing 49

Prime Home Health 8

Red Flag Pest Control 6

River Region Dermatology 49

Russell Medical 52

Salvation Army 49

Satterfield, Inc 5

Southern Sash 5

Sunrise Docks 48

Tallassee Health & Rehab 47

The Learning Tree 31

TowBoatUS 33

US Bank 12

Vacation Rental Management 49

Will Tampling, Keller Williams 2

Wow Catering 29

Life Lessons on the Slopes

Iwelcomed in 2023 in Telluride, Colorado.

I write this on day two of my stay. I am still getting to know the mountain and the town. It has a hippie sensibility and a cowboy spirit. Ski culture is a thing in and of itself. People are outfitted in puffy jackets in neon colors and metallic hues. Women are wrapped in fur coats and amazing leather boots. The food is hearty, and the beer is cold. Pizza tastes better after a long afternoon on the slopes. The Grateful Dead plays a little louder on the speakers.

The big trees I pass on the lifts display Mardi Gras beads and the occasional bra in their branches. The cold wind takes my breath away, but the views make me want to cry. It is a reminder of how great this country is.

Culture Shock

I am a Southerner who thinks 50 degrees is cold, but it is impossible not to be mesmerized by the beauty of snow, the landscape and the sheer size of the mountains. It is so vastly different from our pines, red clay and lake.

I often write about learning and doing new things. A healthy dose of fear can be good. Snow skiing is that for me. I did not know I was afraid of heights until I snow skied for the first time at 27. I have continued to show up on the slopes for the last 10 years. It’s rewarding to get faster and to get better.

The atmosphere has kept me coming back. It is inspiring and high energy. When I talk with people on the chair lifts and in bars, they are from all across the country, and they are hardworking people blowing off steam. Adrenaline junkies in action. I cannot talk on the phone while racing downhill on skis.

The truth of it is that the little ski towns remind me of home. We are the same – snow and water people. Just different weather.

Snow people are passionate and live and die by the snowfall. I have met people who constantly “winter.” They are in Colorado in the winter, and in the summer, they go to Australia and New Zealand. They chase the powder. My ski instructor, Sandy, stays in Colorado in the summer, does not have to work and kayaks and mountain bikes. Her hot tub is inside. I think Sandy figured it out.

And so, I take lessons and get a little better each year. I can hang. I can definitely get down any mountain you put me on today, and that’s a good metaphor for life.

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

Lacey Howell