Lake Martin Living Magazine June 2021

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

City of Alexander City's

Municipal Complex

The Art of June Dean Tournaments Impact Economy LML's 4th of July Preview

June 2021

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

2 Lake Martin Living

™

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Lake Martin Living 3

From the Editor’s Desk

H

appy June! It is simply amazing to think that summer solstice is upon us.

For those of you who do not know, Mother Nature makes her transition from spring to summer on June 20. This year has flown by so fast. School is out, and people are flocking to the area for vacation, ball tournaments, fishing tournaments, festivals – it is just so much fun.

This issue of Lake Martin Living is a testament to how much is going on in the area.

Events are happening weekly, and at the time this magazine goes to press, daily. Sun Festival is in full swing, and Jazz Fest is coming up next weekend.

As a newbie to the area, I am totally enthralled and completely excited. The summer calendar is on page 52.

A few weeks back, I had the opportunity of meeting Mayor Baird, and he gave me a tour of the new Alexander City Municipal Complex. I was so impressed that there is now a story on page 30 about the building. While I was meeting with him, he mentioned that the city now allows tournament directors and sometimes coaches or umpires to stay at the city guesthouse on tournament weekends. I thought that was a great thing and decided to delve a little deeper into what those softball and baseball tournaments do for our local economy. I was not surprised to discover that the tournaments are a huge asset to Alexander City, and that story is on page 20.

But then, on page 36, we switch gears and begin getting into the nitty-gritty and fun of the summer with the Fourth of July preview. Be sure to check that article out to determine what you and yours will be doing on the fourth. We also asked our followers on Facebook and Instagram what their go-to food for the Fourth is, and the primary response we received was Ribbon Sandwiches. So on page 25, we have included one of our favorite ribbon sandwich recipes with suggestions for other fillings that could be used as well.

So with all of the summer festivities that are going on, remember to be ready for Oh Snap photos because I will be armed with the camera and ready to strike your beauty.

Speaking of Oh Snaps, check out page 45 to see what’s been going on the last few weeks around the county, and perhaps you will come across someone you know.

Remember, summer is a time for fun in the sun and a little relaxation. As I gear up for my first summer of fun in Alexander City, Dadeville and surrounding areas – I simply cannot wait to see what this fantastic little community has in store. Happy summer solstice, all!

Brittany Smith, Editor 4 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Editor Brittany Smith Contributors Kenneth Boone Dave Jennings Lacey Howell Shane Harris Lee Williams Susan Foy Cliff Williams Siri Hedreen Jake Arthur Darius Goodman Betsy Iler Audra Spears Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Rachel McCollough Marilyn Hawkins Julie Harbin Andy Carr Carson Wages Digital Services Elle Fuller Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com

Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. 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.

%&0 ¾ B0 +Ū0 ¾ B Support the local businesses who support the area where you live, work, and play.

Lake Martin Living 5

ON THE COVER

Dr. George W. Hardy General Dentistry

The Alexander City Municipal Complex is named after the late James D. Nabors. The Municipal Complex was Nabors brainchild and came to fruition on April 2, 2019, just one month before he passed away.

Photo by Kenneth Boone

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing Candi Tate, Clinical Liaison

2334 Washington Street, Alexander City | 256-329-9061 | www.crownehealthcare.com

6 Lake Martin Living

FEATURES 20. BALL TOURNAMENTS IMPACT LOCAL ECONOMY Ball tournaments bring visitors to Alexander City in the summer months, Restaurants are busier. Shops are seeing more foot traffic and hotels are booked solid.

26. JUNE DEAN CREATES After a 20-year hiatus from the art world, Dean slowly reemerged and found her own voice. Today she helps to run a thriving art club in Alexander City, Dadeville and Auburn.

30. THE ALEXANDER CITY MUNICIPAL COMPLEX Getting the municipal complex ready for massive, daily foot traffic has not been easy, but it was worth the wait.

35. LAKE MARTIN LIVING'S FOURTH OF JULY EVENTS PREVIEW Live music, parades and fireworks are bound to delight on the Fourth of July.

IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 10. BUSINESS MATTERS 14. FROM THE TEE 16. GARDEN TALK 25. GOOD EATS 41. MEDICAL NEWS 42. MONEY MATTERS 45. OH SNAP! 52. LAKE REGION EVENTS 62. CULTURE SHOCK Female Eastern Tiger Swallowtail on a buttonbush.

Photo by Audra Spears

16

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AROUND THE AREA

Come Out and Dance Herbert Harrell had an interesting request a few weeks ago, and now the Alexander City Parks and Recreation Department has a new class.

“We had some parents seeking a space to teach their children Hispanic dances,” Harrell said. “They had been looking around and couldn’t find any space.”

Harrell said the parents didn’t need an instructor, and everyone came up with a way to pay for the space.

“We don’t have anyone who can teach Hispanic dance,” Harrell said. “We just asked they open up their class to others.”

Harrell said they agreed and have entered their third week at Cooper Rec. “It’s been great,” Harrell said. “It’s been interesting and fun.”

Harrell said the class has mainly children in it, but the adults enjoy it too.

Salsa, anyone?

The class meets Tuesdays and Children at Cooper Wednesdays from 4:30 p.m. to 6 Rec learn new p.m. dance moves.

The new program is just in time

American Legion Honors Harrelson

for summer as the parks and rec department opens back up after the pandemic.

“We have a lot of interest from folks wanting to do things,” Harrell said. “It is great to see people want to come back out to the center again.” ~Cliff Williams

Growth in the City

American Legion Post 143 is raising money to update and rededicate its building in honor of Dadeville native James Spanky Harrelson.

Army Pfc. Harrelson died at the age of 19 on July 17, 2007 in Baghdad, Iraq from wounds sustained in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast. ~Siri Hedreen Remember with Honor

The renaming service will be held on July 3.

The Alexander City City Council approved the Drive The Economy The improved incentive JWA Ventures proposal for a grocer-anchored package shares sales development on approximately 30 acres at the tax revenue. intersection of U.S. Highway 280 and Highway 63.

The proposal was accepted in a 4-2 vote at a special meeting called June 1, 2021.

The approved incentive package shares sales tax revenue that would be generated by the development with all involved. ~Cliff Williams Lake Martin Living 9

BUSINESS MATTERS

The Success Series:

SERVPRO STORY BY BRITTANY SMITH PHOTOS BY JAKE ARTHUR & BRITTANY SMITH

C

hris Teeters wanted to start his own business.

A youth pastor turned storm team chaser and eventually a franchise consultant for ServPro, he had come to know a great deal about the industry and the business. He knew he could be successful given the right opportunity and location as a ServPro owner. Still, he wasn’t sure a business investment in Tallapoosa County would be the best fit.

After all, he and his wife knew very little of Alexander City. So when the opportunity to invest in the business of his dreams arose in Alexander City, he knew a visit would be the tell.

“When we came to check out the business, find out why it wasn’t working for the other guy and find our way around the area, we could see that Alex City is really growing,” Teeters said. “The economy is growing here, and from a ServPro perspective, from a restoration perspective, this is a very under-serviced area. And so we felt very fortunate to be able to buy this business, and we’ve put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears to grow it.”

After many hours of research and visiting the area several times, Teeters and his wife decided that purchasing in Alexander City was a wise investment.

They closed on the deal and officially became a ServPro franchise owners on April 28, 2018.

10 Lake Martin Living

The first thing I did was look for a new location since we did purchase from a previous owner, and we had to move the operation,” Teeters said. “So I went to the Chamber of Commerce to speak to Ed Collari, and it just so happened that they had a warehouse available for rent.”

Conversations began taking place, and it wasn’t long before the Lake Martin Innovation Center worked out a deal for Teeters’ business that he could not turn down.

“It was the perfect location for us to start,” Teeters said.

Being at the innovation center was beneficial for Teeters and his crew. It gave them the opportunity to network, and the atmosphere helped create a foundation for growth, he said.

“We were at the hub of the chamber and being there, drinking coffee there, eating lunch there, it really allowed us to get to know the business leaders in town,” Teeters said. “We were there for three years, and every moment of it moved us closer to our goals.”

Teeters recently purchased and moved into a new building because they outgrew the warehouse at the

Cleaning Up

ServPro was called immediately to clean up schools after storms flooded classrooms on May 4.

“We were at The Innovation Center for three years, and every moment of it moved us closer to our goals.” ~ Chris Teeters innovation center.

“If you look at that space in comparison to the 10,000–square–foot warehouse that we just moved to in April of this year, it is a testimony to how much the business has grown,” Teeters explained.

“We are the disaster guys. So, if something bad happens to a house or business, we show up to clean it up,” Teeters said. “We are always on-call. If somebody’s water pipe breaks in the middle of the night and there is water going everywhere, someone has Making a Difference to get out Top: The warehouse there and at the innovation center housed ServPro handle it.” equipment, including For the ShopVacs and dryers, team, that means taking until the business outgrew the space; action, MIddle: ServPro was whether it be contracted to clean to stop a leak up the First United from a busted Methodist Church pipe and save after the May 4 fire; a bathroom or Bottom: Teeters' started kitchen or by his business with one boxing up an emplyee. He now

entire home, removing furniture, carpet and flooring and relocating it to the ServPro facility.

“We work hard, a lot of nights and weekends, but it’s whatever it takes to get the job done,” Teeters said. “We are certainly grateful for the start that the innovation center offered us, and there couldn’t have been a better location to open the business.”

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Lake Martin Living 11

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That’s why Alabama Power is working hard to help them grow. We’ve teamed up with partners across our state to preserve the natural resources that make Alabama a great place to put down roots – especially if you’re a longleaf pine.

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Lake Martin Living 13

A Whale of a Fight

T

his year was curious for Central Alabama Community College golf. It was mandatory that I take the team’s temperatures daily, and I had to ask health questions of the athletes before practice, play or competition could begin. Online and virtual classes were the only means to pursue some of the most challenging and demanding academic subjects, but the boys persevered. Social distancing was required.

Restaurants were closed to the public, so meals were eaten on the road or in a hotel room. Still this golf team faired quite well. They respected the ever-changing rules with good attitudes, and they did well in the classroom and on the golf course. I cannot allow one tournament to define this past year.

This year at our national championship in Lubbock, Texas, we found ourselves out of our element. West Texas is well known for its weather extremes, and this year was no different. For the past two years, Lubbock experienced freezing temperatures more than usual that caused much of the golf course to be covered in winter-kill grass.

During our practice and preparation in Central Alabama leading up to the tournament, Willow Point Golf and Country Club and the other nine golf courses we frequent were greening up and were getting into their prime. That’s not what we found in Lubbock.

The golf course wasn’t firm, it was more brick-like, much like the runways at Hartsfield Airport, and the wind blew from 20-30 mph every day with gusts up to 40 mph. We can simulate a lot of conditions, but we 14 Lake Martin Living

cannot simulate wind, especially heavy wind.

Unfortunately, we finished in the middle of the pack at the national tournament and were never really in the fight. For those who follow CACC Golf, everyone knows very well that it isn’t normal for us. It certainly wasn’t a good feeling either.

The boys fought hard each of the four rounds. There was never any give-up in them. It amazed them that this kind of wind could have a four-club difference for the exact yardage from one day to the next.

On the first day, the wind was blowing 35 mph out of the southwest. On the second day, the wind blew just as hard from the northeast, and the temperature dropped 25 degrees. The weather conditions were not conducive to our game.

Though the team remained focused and their attitudes never waivered, they could not get a positive feel for what they were facing; however, what they were doing was learning.

We could be in store for something similar next year when Nationals will be held in Odessa, Texas and this group will be much better prepared.

The national championship didn’t go our way, but the year itself, for golf and academics, became a year to remember. Here are some of the highlights of the 2020-2021 year for CACC Trojan Golf: n Six tournament wins n Two individual wins n Conference Champions n Hayden Carner earned Jack Nicklaus Team n Hayden Carner and Tanner Guthrie earned AllRegion Honors n Hayden earned First Team All-American Honors n I earned Conference and District Coach of the Year Honors n The team earned Team Academic All-American Honors n Tanner Guthrie earned All-American Scholar Honors

From the Tee

players and their families are priceless. n Hayden Carner earned the Alabama To see first-hand the financial and moral Sports Writer’s Junior College Studentsupport that many of you and others have Athlete of the Year Honors. given to this golf program is humbling to n Eight of my nine golfers earned me. I adore what I do, and I thank all of you President’s List or Dean’s List grades in and the parents who trusted me to mentor either the fall, spring or both. their sons during their time in Alexander As I look back and pause to absorb the City. whole year, I believe that it was a very good This year, like so many others in the past, year. I cannot make one tournament ruin all I will look back and remember it fondly, the good that happened with these boys. Do regardless of the crazy hoops we had to I want them to experience the excitement jump through because of COVID-19. of winning a national championship?

I am now in the planning stages for You bet your Lifesavers But a national the 2021–2022 seasons and searching for championship win is no easy task. players for the 2022–2023 academic year.

Every year, there is a champion, and Many new experiences are lying ahead for I know of many coaches that have been CACC Golf and me. working hard at their trades for 20, 25 and Dave Jennings Next year, most of my team will be 30–plus years who have never brought a returning, and I feel confident that they national championship trophy home. will be better prepared and focused. They will know I have been blessed to win two while coaching how they are going to wrestle to get that championship for CACC, and our Trojan golfers won five other trophy back home. championships before I got here. The ring is the icing All I can say is, “God bless the competition. They are on the cake, but it’s not the whole cake. in for a whale of a fight.”

I have been blessed to have this experience of Until next time, go Trojans! coaching at CACC for 21 years now. Seeing these young guys turn into men and move on to earn their ~Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach at Central Bachelors or Masters degrees and start their lives has Alabama Community College. been an experience that many people aren’t privileged to live. The relationships that I maintain with former

Lake Martin Living 15

The best flowers to

M

ost people might consider the world of gardening as just growing plants. But for those of us who are passionate about plants, the hobby goes way beyond that. Gardens can provide interest, beauty, food, therapy and achievement. They are also a habitat for life with active visitors, such as insects and birds. Sometimes a bonus feature of the flower garden is dedicated to the presentation of colorful butterflies.

Of all the specialty gardens, such as shade and vegetable gardening, butterfly gardening tops the list when it comes to wonder and excitement. There is nothing better than having a beautiful flower garden unless it is a beautiful flower garden that attracts those fascinating flying creatures. These unique insects easily spark interest and admiration from adults and children. Since we have so many native butterflies in Alabama, encounters are highly likely, so one might as well have them wander about the home garden or landscape and encourage them to visit often.

Butterfly gardens may sound complex, but designing and having one is really quite simple.

Creating a butterfly garden involves designing the garden to attract, retain and encourage butterfly populations.

To start, designate a sunny area and plant flowers that both the gardener and the butterflies enjoy. The emphasis should be on choosing and arranging the flowers and plants correctly. To do this, one must become educated on the types of plants or flowers that butterflies prefer.

There are two

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butterfly plant groups: Nectar plants for adults and host food plants for caterpillars.

Adult butterflies primarily seek sugary nectar but also obtain other nutrients from decaying plant and animal matter.

They are attracted to colorful flowers for that nectar source. Nectar, a sweet, high-energy liquid, is quickly and

attract butterflies

easily lapped up by the butterfly’s proboscis or tongue.

Most gardeners will get a few feeding butterflies by default when they plant annuals and perennials. Yet certain flowers of similar colors grouped together are

more attractive to both butterflies and the gardener.

Therefore, the strategy for more butterflies becomes planting the same species or variety in mass groups or bunches.

Butterflies have compound eyes, which causes them to have poor eyesight. The compound eyes do not allow them to distinguish tiny details, and because they are near-sighted, a bunch is more noticeable than a single flower. So, these near-sighted creatures draw to the large masses of color each flower produces when planted in clusters primarily because of their eyesight.

In addition, flower color and shape also play an important role in attracting butterflies Creating Beauty to specific plants.

Monarch butterfly Studies show that many on a fall wildflower.

Lake Martin Living 17

Garden Talk

butterflies prefer plants that have pink, red, visits throughout the year. Since butterflies purple, yellow or orange flowers. have multiple generations throughout the Most butterflies must also land on a year, they would always be around if flowers flower to obtain nectar. This behavior are consistently in bloom. indicates a preference towards plants with A butterfly garden also emphasizes the clusters of short, tubular flowers or large flat host plants and food sources for caterpillars petals.

– the baby butterflies. Oddly, butterfly Since butterflies suck liquid food with a gardeners choose to include plants that the straw-like mouth, tubular-shaped flowers caterpillars are going to eat up. are ideally suited. Although butterflies may Basically, the beautiful adult butterflies prefer clusters of tubular or flat-topped like colorful flowers as we do, and their flowers, the goal is to select plants in ugly babies want to eat up the plants; various colors, sizes and shapes to attract as however, host plants are not as showy and many butterfly species as possible. are included as designated plants that adult The list of butterfly flowers and nectar butterflies will lay eggs upon. These plants Shane Harris plants can be extensive; however, the are for their caterpillars to feed on and grow following flowers are not only proven but up to be adults, which is necessary for the also are must-haves in a designated butterfly butterfly’s life cycle. garden: Butterfly bush, butterfly weed, lantana, purple Luckily for us gardeners, most butterfly caterpillars coneflower, black-eyed Susan, verbena, creeping phlox, have very specific food host preferences. They pineapple sage, salvia, bee balm, sedum, zinnia and won’t eat up everything. In fact, many of the insect aster. Butterflies also like the flowers of azaleas, abelia, pests we associate with plant damage, like tomato viburnum, crape myrtle and goldenrod. hornworms and armyworms, are caterpillars of moths.

Mixing various annuals and perennials can also Occasionally, some are butterflies, but we rarely see the extend the flower show season and regular butterfly caterpillars of most butterflies unless we attract and 18 Lake Martin Living

discover them in a butterfly garden. In nature, they prefer specific native trees, shrubs and wildflowers.

Adult butterflies lay eggs on host plants, so the larvae will have food until they mature. Once hatched, tiny caterpillars will feed exclusively on that host plant. Interestingly, once a caterpillar eats its first plant meal, it cannot survive on any other plant.

Monarchs, for example, only lay eggs on milkweed. Black swallowtails lay eggs on members of the carrot family, such as parsley, fennel and dill, but no other plants. Gulf fritillary caterpillars can be found on passionflower vines. Yellow Eastern Tiger Swallowtails grow up on the leaves of yellow poplar or black cherry.

Some top host plants to mingle into the butterfly garden are milkweed, dill, fennel and parsley. Native trees and shrubs that are great host plants near the garden are spicebush, dogwood, yellowpoplar, sassafras, black cherry, pawpaw, elm and willow.

At the end of the larval stage, butterfly caterpillars need sturdy, protected places to attach and form chrysalises. In due time, it soon changes and emerges as a new adult butterfly.

Lastly, locate and place the butterfly garden in full sun. Most of the plants chosen for the garden require full sun to do well. Cold-blooded butterflies also need these sunny areas to warm up. Large flat rocks and stepping stones are often placed in the garden, too, so they can bask in these areas to warm themselves.

Water sources should also be incorporated.

Naturally, butterflies congregate around wet sand and mud to drink water and sip salt and minerals.

Provide butterflies with a puddle to drink from by filling a shallow dish or pan with wet sand or gravel where they can land and drink safely. They like spots on the ground where the water has already evaporated from a puddle, but the edges are still moist.

In Alabama, we can enjoy flowers and watching butterflies from early spring to late fall. Why not have them both – two passions full of excitement all combined in your very own home landscape? Plant a butterfly garden today. Include and teach the kids, invite the neighbors, grab a camera and enjoy the show.

For help on other home and garden questions, contact your local Butterflies Light county Extension office or visit us online Facing Page: Eastern Tiger Swallowtail on an azalea in at aces.edu. the spring; Top Right: Many

butterflies love ~Shane Harris is our native butterfly weed; the County Extension A Silver-spotted Skipper on Coordinator for butterfly bush; Tallapoosa County.

An ideal butterfly garden has a variety of colorful flowers; Gulf Fritillary butterfly on lantana.

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Ball Tournaments Impact Local Economy STORY BY BRITTANY SMITH & PHOTOS BY JAKE ARTHUR

Lake Martin Living 21

Y

outh sports have become a significant part of today’s society, and recreational teams steadily bring in more and more kids each year; however, travel and club levels are skyrocketing. For Alexander City, a recent influx of tourism due to travel and club tournaments has had a giant impact on the local economy.

On May 22, a 3-day USA Softball tournament, hosting 38 teams from all over the Southeast, came to Alexander City to play ball at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex.

The Sportplex boasts 212 acres and can accommodate multiple tournament types from baseball and softball to basketball, football and even archery. But that is not all. The Sportplex houses nine baseball/softball fields, a horse ring, an archery range, a football stadium, a disc golf course and a gymnasium. These facilities are readily available and are tournament-capable. The facility also offers a dog park, splash pad, 3-mile nature trail and a senior center.

It is a great place to bring the family and an even better place to play ball, take a hike or ride a horse.

Sonny Wilson, director of parks and recreation at the sportplex, estimated that about 2,000 visitors came to Alexander City for the USA Softball tournament in May. Because of this opportunity, there were 2,000 additional people in the city for the weekend. When visitors come, they drive local roads, shop at local shops and eat at local restaurants. Most of the foot traffic on tournament weekends is from out of towners, and it is a given that when this many people visit Alexander City, businesses will see an increase in profit.

“Brandy Hastings, with Lake Martin Tourism, has

22 Lake Martin Living

been very good about letting our business owners know when a tournament is coming to town so that they can be prepared,” Wilson said. “She has done a great job notifying those businesses and making sure that they are ready.

We’ve never had that in the past, and our business owners appreciate it. It is a great thing.”

But the business owners are not the only people who appreciate the welcoming atmosphere. The USA Softball organization will return two more times throughout the summer to host other events at the sportplex because of the central location and welcoming atmosphere that the city and the locals offer.

In addition to the USA Softball organization, Alexander City hosted the Caba Baseball Memorial Day tournament, which brought in additional revenue to the area, and is slated to host the Fourth of July tournament for Caba as well.

In addition, the Sportplex will also host two Cal Ripkin State Tournaments and the JD Crowe Grand Slam in June and July. These large organizations are coming to Alexander City because of the facilities at the sportplex, its capabilities of hosting huge tournaments and the community’s preparedness.

“We went around after the Visitor Impact last USA Softball tournament Previous Pages: Wilson weekend and asked local said that for every ball businesses if they had seen player, three to four an uptick in foot traffic, and family members travel with them; Below: Teams they said they definitely had seen more foot traffic, travel from all over but they were ready for it,” the Southeast to play Wilson said. ball at the sportplex.

“The sports tournaments are super important to tourism, and we are working hard to make the teams feel welcome when they arrive,” Hastings said.

“We are promoting dining in Alexander City, and I’m working with Nick to make sure that all participants get an email before and a thank you letter after each tournament.”

Hastings said she prepares welcome bags for the coaches so that when they arrive in town, they have a point of reference for all places Alexander City and can direct players and their families, if need be, to restaurants, shops and lodging.

In the coming weeks, an empty lot at the sportplex will be converted into an area that provides RV hookups. Families will be able to stay at the facility on tournament weekends.

“We have space for people to put their campers. We also have the capabilities to create RV hookups. The lot already has water, electricity and sewage. We just have to get it campsite ready,” Wilson said. “And that can all be done in-house. Once the Winner Takes All lot has been converted Top: Fans gather and could house campers, around to watch families would have a place an action-packed to stay when they come for game; Below: tournaments.”

Teammates cheer as the game heats up.

Wilson said that it was easy for these families to find a hotel or stay at Wind Creek State Park while in town in the past. Since COVID-19, traffic has been abundant to the lake, and finding a place to stay has become more difficult for the teams and their families.

“If we want to keep these tournaments coming to Alex City, we have to be able to accommodate the teams and their fans,” Wilson said. “Right now, that is a hard thing to do. We need more spaces.”

For Alexander City, more places to stay would mean more teams on tournament weekends. More teams on tournament weekends would mean more foot traffic in

the city, and more foot traffic only means one thing: More money for the local economy.

In partnership with Lake Martin Tourism, Alexander City is doing its part to ensure that the community accurately prepares for the crowds that the tournaments bring to town. From sending emails, packing goody bags and calling business owners to work on fields, creating campsites out of thin air, and maintaining facilities while hosting directors, coaches or officials complimentary of the city at the guesthouse. Suppose there is a deterrent for organizations to bring their tournament to Alexander City. In that case, it lies with the lack of lodging.

And while there is a plan in store for that, the sportplex cannot accommodate all tournament travelers; however, Alexander City is growing and continuing to see the benefits that travel tournaments bring to the area.

“Most of our tournaments are from 15- to 20 teams, but a few times a year, we get the really big ones,” Wilson said. “And it’s important that the community is ready for the teams.”

Lake Martin Living 23

24 Lake Martin Living

GOOD EATS

Simple Southern Staple

Ribbon Sandwiches

Egg and Smoked Chicken Ribbons Ingredients 3 Eggs, boiled and peeled 12 slices white bread, sandwich 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise, creamy ½ teaspoon celery salt 50 grams butter, softened ½ cup hummus 150 grams chicken, shaved, smoked 1 cup microgreens (could substitute for spinach or whatever green leafy vegetable tastes good).

Directions Combine eggs, celery salt and mayonnaise in a bowl and mash together until smooth.

Lay out four

bread slices and generously spread with egg mixture.

Top with another slice of bread and spread with butter.

Arrange the slices of chicken over the butter and spread with hummus (I prefer roasted red pepper hummus).

Sprinkle microgreens over the hummus. Butter remaining bread slices and sandwich on top of the greens.

Stack the sandwiches in a container and cover them with cling wrap. Chill until required.

To serve, cut off outside crusts to make neat squares, and then cut each layered sandwich into three ribbons.

T

here are many options when it comes to crafting a ribbon sandwich. The southern treat can be a combination of any sandwich filling, really, from pimento and cheese with egg salad to Nutella and bananas with peanut butter and honey – the options truly are limitless with this classic double- or tripledecker.

The ribbon sandwich goes by many names, such as tea sandwich, finger sandwich and rainbow sandwich. It is known as the child’s sandwich and allows for as much or as little creativity as desired. They are popular in the South at family get-togethers, bridal parties and even tea parties.

Ribbon sandwiches have also been referred to as lady’s sandwiches because they are dainty but packed with flavor. Plus, ladies tend to serve them at their fanciest affairs.

These delicious morsels really can be used for any event, whether it be a day on the water kayaking or a fancy bridal shower. The ribbon sandwich is a great and easy go-to for nearly any gathering that requires finger foods.

Mix It Up Since July 4 is right Other fillings could be: around the corner, we pimento cheese, peanut decided to share one butter and jelly, tuna, of our favorite ribbon ham salad sandwich recipes. or any desired filling.

Lake Martin Living 25

The colorful world of

June Dean

20 years away from the art industry leads to massive confidence and success boost

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STORY & PHOTOS BY BRITTANY SMITH

orn into a family of professional artists, creating came naturally to June Dean. She sold her first piece of artwork, a painting of roses, on a sidewalk in Portland, Oregon, when she was just 5 years old.

“I have had people call me from Washington State and Oregon and different places where I’ve sold art. They’d ask ‘Is this one of your works?’ and I go, ‘Ah, it looks like it,’” she said.

But Dean hasn’t created art on the West Coast since she was 20 years old, and looking at those pieces today is

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surreal to her.

“I was a different person then,” Dean said.

At 21, she came home from China with a vision of a Chinese woman in all her glory, kneeling in a Buddha temple. She could barely wait to paint the image, and when she finished, she sent it off to another artist for a critique.

“I was critiqued, in my opinion, harshly. And I remember my mother, who was also an artist, said, ‘Well, it was a really good beginning.’ And I thought, ‘I’ve been painting all my life, and if that is just the beginning – I’m quitting.’ And I quit. I didn’t paint a thing in public of any kind for 20 years.

“I was hard on myself,” she said. “And what I have realized is that I was painting at an amateur to a beginner’s mature level, but professional artists surrounded me – people who produced pastel works, abstract works even to realism, everything really. And I was striving to be pleasing to them. I was comparing myself to them and striving to have my work look like theirs. And I couldn’t do Fire Up the Canvas it anymore. So, I put the Left: Dean has created a series of three welding brush down.” portraits. This is the only It wasn’t until 20 years one she currently has in later that Dean picked up her possession; Top Center: a paintbrush again.

Dean's portrayal of The “I doodled and drew Dude was featured things in private all along, at a juried art show but I didn’t paint a thing in Auburn in April; Right in public,” she said.

Page: God creates the Universe in the painting Then one day, while at named Vulcan Forge. work, Dean was sitting at

her desk doodling, and a co-worker stopped by. Seeing what Dean was working on, the friend became enthralled by Dean’s talent and invited her to an art class with a lady named Mrs. Nighty.

“So, we started going to a Mrs. Nighty together,” Dean said. “We paid $3 a visit. We painted for an hour and a half. Her husband, Basil, came out and gave us cookies and tea or coffee. Then we painted for another 30 minutes or so and went home with our little $3 project or whatever it was.”

When Dean picked the brush back up, she did so with no intention of painting what Mrs. Nighty was teaching. She was itching to paint again, but this time, for herself, not to please anyone else.

Mrs. Nighty’s only request was that Dean shared with her what she was painting. Dean agreed, and the teacher began to work with her oneon-one.

“This is when I found my own voice,” Dean said. “I came back to art, and I found my voice, that is what we call it, and I stopped trying to mimic what is or had been around me.”

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Not long after finding her voice, Dean and five other artists started an art club in Montgomery called Bama Brush Strokes. The club earned national and international sponsorships through decorative artists and is still a very strong club today; however, Dean has since moved on from Bama Brush Strokes and has played a considerable role in bringing artists around the East-Central Alabama region together. Jan Dempsey in Auburn wanted Dean to start a club there several years back, but that wasn’t what Dean had in mind.

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“I agreed to lead an art group in Auburn,” Dean said.

“But I did not want to deal with any funds or bylaws; I am done with that stuff.”

So, about 20 or so years ago, Dean began holding open studios in Auburn, she said.

“At open studio, artists of any level come together and paint,” she said. “Bring your paint, bring your canvas and we all interact with each other in the art community.

“But then I moved to Alexander City. The artists in this area, which are plentiful, were forming an art group called Artists Association of Central Alabama, and I became a part of the group,” Dean said.

Not long after Dean joined the association, they began open studios in both Alexander City and Dadeville.

Prior to COVID-19, AACA was very active in the community. The group held open studios weekly in Alexander City and Dadeville; however, the virus affected the club just as it affected other businesses and people’s lives.

AACA is actively working on getting open studio back up and running.

Currently, the club meets in Alexander City on the third Wednesday of each month at the Sportplex Senior Center. In Dadeville, they meet on the third Monday of each month at the Dadeville Community Center.

AACA is also in the process of developing an evening Paint With Me program, which will take place in Dadeville as well. For more information or to join the club, contact June Dean at 334-313-7533 or visit the website at artistsassociationofcentralalabama.org. They also have a Facebook page.

In the meantime, Dean is working on several pieces for upcoming events. Most recently, a piece of her art that she deemed “The Dude,” based on the Jeff Bridges character from the movie The Big Lebowski was featured at the Historic Nunn Winston House at Auburn’s Kiesel Park during the Auburn Arts Association 2021 Juried Art Show. She is also preparing pieces of Johnny Cash for an upcoming tribute collaboration with other fellow artists in Alexander City.

There is no doubt that when Dean cannot be found, she is probably firmly nestled in her workspace, creating her next vision, whether it be a pour, acrylic or any other kind of paint, pencil or even ink project, Dean is always creating.

“I no longer create for others.

Just Breathe Do I sell my works, Top: Dean is working on a portrait of Johnny sure. Do I create Cash; Left: This water them to sell, no,” color painting has won Dean said. “I create many ribbons and now because I have to. hangs on the wall It’s like breathing to in Dean's dining room. me.”

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Alexander City Municipal Complex

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STORY BY BRITTANY SMITH & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

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ust, raw sewage and mold are just some of the hot buttons that used to be discussed at city council work sessions. Those same complaints are what fueled the interest in building or purchasing a new building, perhaps one that could house all city departments under one roof. Those same conversations would later result in the purchase of a building deemed the Alexander City Municipal Complex.

On April 2, 2019, city officials signed paperwork to take ownership of the former Russell Sales Office and guesthouse. A sprawling 85,000-square foot building that sits on 56 acres just off U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City.

The space in the new facility allows for all departments to be consolidated into one central hub, bringing about 200 of the city’s more than 300 employees to consolidate under one roof.

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The significant change here: Past locations were scattered about on the downtown corridor in a multitude of buildings, some of which were in disarray and in severe need of repair.

It was the vision of the late Mayor Jim Nabors to bring all of the city employees together in one central location.

It just so happened that the old Russell Sales building would make way for his vision to become a reality; however, after sitting vacant for nearly 20 years, the building was far from move-in ready.

The roof, once bronze, had faded to green and was more vulnerable than not; having leaked for years, the inside of the building was utterly damaged. Everything needed to be ripped out and totally renovated, but this was a project that the Alexander City City Council got behind.

The City hired architects JMR+H to evaluate the

“It is nice to bring nature indoors.

The employees appreciate the accessibility of the water feature and nature and we all want happy employees.” ~ Woody Baird

building. Due to their prestigious track record with previous renovations, such as the old Alabama Supreme Court building for the Retirement Systems of Alabama and many other municipal complexes throughout the state, city officials were confident that JMR+H could handle a large-scale project like that of the Alexander City Municipal building.

Central Contracting of Wetumpka was awarded the bid for renovations and worked hand-in-hand with JMR+H and city officials to ensure accuracy during demolition and the reconstruction phases of the project.

Upon initial demolition, Central Contracting of Wetumpka determined that the bones of the building were still in excellent shape and that it was just the roof and walls that suffered the most damage over the years while the building sat empty.

But the building no longer sits empty. The Alexander

Building Better City Municipal Complex is Previous Pages: The old now a bustling, businessRussell Sales Office oriented mecca, nestled is now home to most right off of the main of the City's employees; highway in Alexander City.

Above: Baird has put At the new municipal his own green thumb to complex, citizens and work in the atrium. visitors alike are greeted with smiles upon entrance. Visit the information desk to determine what department is where and exactly how to get there. The most common and sought-after area of the building is the utility payment center. It is located just through the main entrance and past the police station on the right, making it easily accessible to those needing to pay bills or have services connected.

Just past the utility office, the ceiling gives way to an

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atrium that was once home to exotic plants and trees, as well as a waterfall. During remodel, this feature was cleaned up and revived. New vegetation has been planted, and the waterfall, although slightly reconstructed, would once again cascade through rocky terrain and plummets into a serenity pool, never-ending.

Mayor of Alexander City, Curtis "Woody" Baird, has contributed to the plant life in the atrium and surrounding offices.

“I planted a banana tree on the bottom level, and just recently, I planted a pomegranate tree down there, too.

We had to take some of the trees out originally, but we tried to retain as many as possible.”

Rocks and trees again surround the water feature, including the herb garden planted by Baird on the main level, right by the stairs, overlooking the waterfall.

The roof that adorns the atrium remains glass and 34 Lake Martin Living

steel, just like the original structure, and allows for natural light to pour into the building, a feature that the employees appreciate, Baird said.

Tables and chairs also employ the atrium’s bottom level, giving visitors, officials, citizens or employees a comfortable spot to relax just outside of the city council chamber, which doubles as a courtroom.

The chamber is set up with convertible chairs and tables that can be arranged in many ways. The lighting features are easily set at different levels, allowing for an ambient feel or a strict white light for those more serious moments in the courtroom.

“When we have work sessions, I like to be able to see each other and talk,” Baird said. “So the council chamber and courtroom can be set up any way we want. It also has a great sound system and lighting system. We are working on a video system. I would love to get a good video system up and running.”

Baird said grant funding has helped to offset some of the expenses for technology. He asked for funds from an Alabama Municipal Electric Authority grant to purchase teleconference and projection equipment for the conference and employee training room. The employee training room resembles a high-tech college classroom.

The 911-dispatch center is state of the art and was funded by the Tallapoosa County E-911 Board. The center now houses four systems versus two, and contains multiple computers, screens, microphones and telephones and sits adjacent to the Emergency Operation Center.

“The EOC consists of radios or any electronic device that could be used in the state of emergency,” Baird said.

“That is where we go if we need to talk or plan. The night of the First United Methodist Fire, this place was a madhouse, but we were on it, and we had our equipment ready.”

The municipal court has also been moved to the new building, although that was not always the plan.

“The municipal courts handle tickets, fees, etc., and we couldn’t leave them over at the old courthouse by themselves,” Baird explained. “They needed to be near or with the police department. We wanted to move them over here, but the space allocated for the office was not a big enough space for two people to operate it successfully.

“I reached out to the CJ Coley Courthouse and inquired about moving the municipal court there, but after going round and round with them, it was obvious that they did not want us there. So I got with the clerk of court, the city judge and the police department, and we came over here and figured out how to make it work here,” Baird said.

After careful consideration, it was determined that the council chamber could also be used as a courtroom. The payment window that was previously installed upfront near the police station was relocated to the available office space near the elevators on the main floor.

“We want these women to be protected,” Baird said.

“So we made sure that there was a barrier to do business through. They are collecting money owed, signed warrants, whatever needs to be done, and we did not want the public to have direct access to them.

“So now when they have city court, we can use this end of the building, and it will be a quick in and a quick out

for everyone involved. Citizens can go straight down the stairwell or elevator to the courtroom, get adjudicated and then come back up, go by the window, pay their fine or whatever and then they are out of the door.

“It made the most sense to just work it out on our own.”

Directly across the way, there is a cafeteria that seats up to 200 people indoors and an additional 50 on the balcony. The cafeteria is donned with glass walls and overlooks the hilly terrain of Alexander City. It is yet another scenic place to escape to, during a strenuous workday or a lengthy court case, for a hot cup of coffee or to get a bit of fresh air.

The new municipal complex is jam-packed with beautiful and relaxing features, all of which were a part of the original Russell Sales Office. But when Alexander City purchased the 85,000-square foot building, the intention was to house all or most employees within one central location. It just so happens that the scenic views came as a perk.

“Everyone loves my office,” Baird said. “I still Massive Renovations need to put my touch on Facing Page Top Left: it, but the floor-to-ceiling The council chamber doubles as the city windows always seem courtroom; Facing Page to wow people. I’m just Bottom Left: Employees fortunate to have a spot and visitors can relax that allows me to bring and enjoy a view while nature into my space like in the cafeteria; Below: this. I also like being able Dispatch is working to see 280.” with state-of-the-art equipment.

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July 4 Lake Martin Living's

TH of

Events Preview

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n this Independence Day, freedom truly rings as towns and cities all over the U.S. begin to open back up and allow people to gather for momentous occasions and holidays. Patrons are eager to get out and partake in July 4 festivities. Some still have not visited with family or friends in more than a year.

But this year, that will not be the case. There are tons of events happening in and around Tallapoosa County, and there is positively something for everyone to do on this Independence Day.

Kick-off Saturday, July 3, with the Heart of Waverly BBQ Kick-off the holiday weekend at the Standard Deluxe for the Heart of Waverly BBQ. There will be music on the outdoor stage and plenty of delicious food, art and garden vendors. Gates will open at 11 a.m., and music begins at 12:30 p.m.

Headlining the concert is the North Mississippi All-Stars, who offer up an ancient yet futuristic sound that they deem modern Mississippi music.

While the music stays true to Mississippi Hill country, the brothers thrive on developing a sound and identity that is unique to them.

They will feature songs from their newest album, Up and Rolling, which was inspired by Wyatt McSpadden, a photographer who happened upon the brothers for a photoshoot back in 1996 and ended up spending the whole day with them, capturing it all on film.

Although the brothers had long forgotten about that day, McSpadden had not, and as he sat reminiscing one day, he came across the photos.

McSpadden sent the photos to the band, and they were elated at the memories, which sparked the idea for their new album, Up and Rolling. The band Show Some Love Facing Page Left: believes that both the photos that were taken on Don red, white and blue and watch the Sunday in 1996 and or join Russell the new music they have Lands July 4 for since created capture the the Boat Parade; communal spirit upon Facing Page Right: which the band was Celebrate Freedom founded.

Fireworks ignite the sky on July 3 from The North Mississippi the BRHS lawn.

All-Stars are a great way

to end the evening, but you’ll want to get there early because the music starts at 12:30 p.m. and the options are endless and eclectic.

B.B. Palmer has honed their skills over the years playing good ol’ American country music, while Cary Hudson’s sound leans more towards an alternative-southern rock. This will undoubtedly be a show to see. And just when you thought it couldn’t get better, the ever-present, high-energy sound of Royal Horses will fill the air. But that’s not all. Michelle Malone, singer, songwriter, producer and founder of SBS Records out of Atlanta, will also take the stage on Saturday. Her sound is a combination of bluesy, folk-rock and alternative country, and she is sure to delight the crowds.

In addition to great music, there will be artists, food and garden vendors. Come to hear great music but go home with fresh vegetables right out of the garden and a new piece of artwork.

And of course, there is no forgetting the barbecue. The event is called Heart of Waverly BBQ, after all. Robert Oswalt will be in the Feed Shak, and the Butcher Paper BBQ food trailer will be in the Yard. Make sure to bring cash and your appetite because this barbecue comes from the heart.

Bring the family, chairs and blankets, but leave the dogs at home. Small personal coolers are allowed, but no glass and no outside alcohol will be permitted. Tickets are $50. Visit standarddeluxe. com/shop/allstars to purchase online. Kids 14 and under get in free.

Celebrate Freedom featuring I AM THEY in Alexander City Celebrate Freedom has been lighting up downtown Alexander City for 16 years, and this year will not be any different. Gearing up for the 17th year of jaw-dropping fireworks, music and fun, Pastor Rick Levell has been hard at work preparing for the crowds to be the largest this year that they have seen. This Celebration of Freedom begins at 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 3, on the front lawn of Benjamin Russell High School.

The evening will kick off with a concert by pop worship band I AM THEY, who just recently released their third album Faithful God. Most notably, they are known for songs Scars,

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Delivered and I Lift Patriotism Abounds Top Left: Enjoy July 4 My Eyes; however, morning by watching this new album has or partcipating special meaning to the in the Dadeville Blue bandmates, as they Creek Parade; Top went through a point Right: Join thousands of tribulation where at Arti Gras to view uncertainty was the and purchase theme. The group didn’t handcrafted works know if there would be of art. a future for them, and through all of these moments, they held steadfast to Hebrews 10:23.

Faithful God was the result of faithful intentions, and so the album is a look at the past and a glimpse into the future of the band. It is a declaration of promises kept and promises yet to come.

After the concert, Pyro Shows of Alabama will light up the sky with a magnificent light show.

This group is known for fireworks displays that ignite the senses and special effects that will make onlookers believe they are part of the show. These guys know what they are doing, and it will be magical.

Come early to this free family fun event, and make sure to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food and drinks will be available on-site, but please leave your pups at home because this one will be explosive.

Dadeville’s Blue Creek Parade Start the morning of July 4 with Dadeville’s Blue Creek Parade. The parade will begin at 11 a.m. from the north end of Ponder Creek Road. It will be an excellent opportunity for the family to hang out and enjoy the morning as participants

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throw out beads and candy to parade-goers.

Parade participants should plan to arrive early and decorate golf carts, UTVs and convertibles. The parade will take off from Olana Drive and end at Niffer’s on Lake Martin.

Let Freedom Ring at Russell Lands On Lake Martin

Join artisans and patrons from all over the Southeast as they gather on July 2 and 3 for the 10th Annual Arti Gras juried art show on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. An event you will not want to miss, this juried art show features only original and handcrafted pieces of art created and exhibited by local artists. Everything from well-designed, handmade trinkets to whole pieces of furniture will be available for purchase.

Categories for the show include: drawing, furniture, glass, metalwork, painting, photography, pottery, jewelry, wood, mixed media and much more.

Make a day of it and stop in at Catherine’s Market for lunch, then visit the Naturalist’s cabin and the Clock Tower, where the children can apply their hands to the history of timekeeping.

Then on July 4, begin your morning with the Russell Marine 45th Annual 4th of July Boat Parade beginning at 10:30 a.m. Spectators line the shores of Lake Martin as patriotic boats and crew leave Kowaliga Marina and circle past the lighthouse at Children’s Harbor. Registered boats will vie for top honors for the largest flag, tallest flag, most patriotic and best overall boat and crew.

So grab the crew, don some red, white and blue and deck out the boat. Or bring a chair and enjoy the

show. Visit russellmarine.net/ events for more information.

Close out the weekend celebration at The AMP on Lake Martin with the largest fireworks display in the Southeast, hosted by Russell Lands. Pick a spot on the soft grassy hillside to enjoy live music and watch the sky ignite in a multitude of mesmerizing colors.

The music starts at 6:30 p.m. Sunday with The Bank Walkers, hailing right here from Alexander City. They are sure to delight as they sound off with a mix of classic rock, folk, Americana favorites and southern jams. Then at 8, the Sweet Tea Trio will take the stage and impress us with their tight three-part harmony.

These ladies were born and raised right here in the Deep South, and they take great pride in writing their own lyrics and performing their music.

Currently, they are recording a studio album produced by their manager Kid Rock. Sweet Tea Trio is enthusiastic and brings a little rhinestone energy to an already electric stage. These ladies have performed for the likes of Bon Jovi and Alabama; they are fun to watch and even better to sing along with, so bring your pipes because you will need them. They take the stage both before and after the fireworks, which are scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. So come out early and prepare to stay late.

The 4th of July this year will most certainly end with a big, big boom on Lake Martin.

For tickets and more info, visit www.theamponlakemartin. com.

IT’S TIME FOR OUTDOOR FUN, IS YOUR HEART HEALTHY? It’s time for outdoor fun, and you don’t want to miss a single moment in the sun.

Make sure your heart is healthy and ready for the season with an appointment at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Russell Medical.

Kevin Sublett, MD, is board-certified in cardiovascular care and offers the latest in prevention, testing, and treatment for keeping your heart healthy.

Our clinic is backed by the knowledge and expertise of UAB Medicine, including: • • • •

Advanced ultrasound testing Nuclear medicine imaging in fully accredited labs Management of cardiac rhythm disorders Interventional cardiology care

HEART & VASCULAR CLINIC AT RUSSELL MEDICAL Make an appointment today by calling (256) 234-2644.

3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 • Alexander City, AL 35010 uabmedicine.org/HeartRussell

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385 East LaFayette Street Dadeville, AL 36853 (256) 825-9244

Only Minutes from Lake Martin and Alex City!

All Private Suites with Private Bathroom & Shower

New Gym for Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy

In-House Nurse Practitioner & 40” Flat Screen TV’s

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CHOICE We Touch the Lives of the People You Love 40 Lake Martin Living

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5/18/16 3:58 PM

Russell Medical Celebrates

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s summer officially begins June 20, Russell Medical celebrates the summer solstice with exciting news and accolades.

Once again, Russell Medical received an "A"grade in the spring 2021 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing Russell's achievements protecting patients from errors, injuries, accidents and infections. The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety. Developed under the guidance of a national expert panel, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 27 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,700 U.S. acute-care hospitals twice per year. The Hospital Safety Grade's methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent, and the results are free to the public.

Further, it is the only hospital rating program based exclusively on hospitals’ prevention of medical errors and other harms to patients in their care. An ‘A’ safety grade is an elite designation that we are proud of, and our community should be as well. As difficult as this past year has been for all hospitals, our staff has kept a laser focus on patients and their safety at all times.

We are proud to announce the installation of our new da Vinci XI Surgical System. This sophisticated surgical robot replaces our first da Vinci robot, initially installed in 2011, which was designed to further advance the technology used in minimally invasive procedures resulting in less pain, shorter hospital stays and quicker healing times. The system can be used across a spectrum of minimally invasive surgical procedures and has been optimized for multiquadrant surgeries in the areas of gynecology, urology, thoracic, cardiac and general surgery.

Presently, four surgeons will operate with the robot on appropriate cases. The physicians are Dr. Lacey Swenson, General Susan Foy Surgeon; Dr. Katharine Cooper, GYN; Dr. Brian Dix, OB-GYN and Dr. William Moore, GYN. During surgery, the surgeon sits at a console and operates through small incisions using tiny, wristed instruments that can precisely grasp items and hold delicate objects. The XI System’s immersive 3D-HD vision system provides surgeons with a highly magnified view, virtually extending their eyes and hands into the patient.

In the coming months, Russell Medical will host an open house to showcase new technology and other hospital upgrades. The staff looks forward to showing off this new surgical robot to the public.

By now, we hope you have read the news regarding the

Medical News

Benjamin Russell Legacy Project and are as excited as we are to watch this vision come to life. Slated to open in the fall of 2022, the Making Advances multi-facility Top: The da Vinci XI Surgical System is used in minimally invasive surgical Benjamin Russell Legacy procedures.

Project will offer services to the aging population and center on geriatric medicine. Located on our main campus in Alexander City, the project includes: n An independent living community consisting of 26 single-family cottages. n An Assisted Living facility with 32 residential units. n The Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care will house medical specialists and services under the medical direction of a geriatrician.

For additional information regarding amenities, residence opportunities and the leasing timeline, please visit, russellcares.com/russell-legacy-project/ and fill out the contact form.

On a final note, we recently celebrated National Nurses Week, followed by National Hospital Week, which is a time set aside to recognize all staff and to celebrate years-of-service milestones, in addition to other special recognitions. This year the Nightingale Award for Nursing Excellence went to all of our nurses to share in the award.

Although it may seem unconventional, so was 2020.

An excerpt from the nomination form eloquently states the sentiments we all share regarding our exceptional nurses: “Each nurse has their own story to tell whether they were front line, daily hands-on providing care and compassion, putting those 'shots in arms,' pushing the paperwork to glean the financial dollars or ensuring we were providing quality of care for all. They worked knowing their own lives were at risk of infection; they worked knowing they could endanger their families; they worked without breaks and sometimes meals; they worked long shifts, extra shifts and most probably have images living in their minds that they will never un-see. They worked through a journey with so many moving parts, taking on roles that did not fall under their job descriptions and being the best they could be because they cared. From the veteran nurses to the newest nurses hired during this pandemic, all served in the spirit of Florence Nightingale.”

Amen. To all of our nurses, we say, “You’re the best!” ~Susan Foy is the marketing director at Russell Medical.

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Understanding compound interest

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lbert Einstein once said, “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world.

He who understands it – earns it – and he who doesn’t – pays it.”

Compound interest is, in my opinion, the most fascinating concept in finance. The ability to earn dollars on dollars and not have to do much other than be patient is terrific. Warren Buffett likes to quote Mae West a lot in that “Too much of a good thing can be wonderful.” I believe compound interest falls into Mae West’s quote.

Let’s begin with a simple math exercise. If I asked you what a penny doubled for 31 days would be at the end, what would you guess? Don’t look any

In a Nutshell

Compound interest demonstrated with the value of a penny that doubles every day for a month.

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MONEY MATTERS

further before guessing. Most people guess far too low. The answer is $10,737,418.24, which is hard to fathom.

The point to take from this exercise is that most of this wealth wasn’t created until the last few days.

In the beginning, a penny goes to two on day two and to 4 cents on day three, and by day 15, it’s only $163.84. The eighth wonder that Einstein references does not happen until the end.

Lee Williams Charlie Munger, Buffett’s partner in Berkshire, said it another way, “The big money is not in the buying and selling but in the waiting.”

Lee Williams offers products and services using the following business names: Nowlin & Associates - insurance and financial services | Ameritas Investment Company, LLC (AIC), Member FINRA/SIPC securities and investments | Ameritas Advisory Services (AAS) - investment advisory services. AIC and AAS are not affiliated with Nowlin & Associates.

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

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Art in the Park Saturday, May 15, 2021 Dadeville's Pennington Park 1. Robin Mask and Zina 2. Monica and Jermaine Knight 3. Ron Paul Stupka 4. The Sheppard Sisters 5. Sally Phillips, Ken and Sara Bacchus and Cathy Delionback 6. Rex and Sharon Howell 7. Butch and Julie Rice

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Music on the Dadeville Square Thursday, May 20, 2021 Downtown Dadeville

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1. Wayne and Joy Smith, Tim and Vickie Reader 2. Ron Messer 3. Lynda and Don Thurlow 4. Stacy Marano, Kathy C., Kelly Nesbit and Jacalyn Gilbert 5. Makya and Teneeshia Johnson 6. Elaine Balint Forbus and Mickey Forbus

7. Carol and Mickey Tarpley, Carol Sellers, Ann Campbell, AnneMarie and Stokes Jones 8. Lisa Woody, Cassandra Hill and Bobby Hill 9. Cathy Adamson, Obie Olds and Lisa and Jimmy Reeves 46 Lake Martin Living

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Third Thursday on Main Street Thursday, May 20, 2021 Downtown Alexander City 1. Ansley Ledbetter, Carlee Ledbetter, Sam Worthy, Campbell Richardson and Ella Ledbetter 2.Yvette Rivera

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3. John Mitcham and Billy and Denise Bates 4. Stacey Jeffcoat and Stephanie Coley 5. Finlay Radney, Megan Tickets, Connor Callegan and Vivien Bunny 6. Haley Lamborne, Sharon Fuller and Sarah Humphries 7. Karen Huffman, Mary Lee Radney, Sue Loyd, Martha Loyd, Florence Copeland, Jo Walker, Sandra Moore and Sandra Grubbs

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Bear Park Inauguration Wednesday, May 2, 2021 Camp Hill 1. Aiden Bryce 2. Harmony Greene and Messiah Williams-Cole

3. Toonchie Taylor and Gerraime Davis 4. Harmony Greene 5. Brandria Felton 6. Bernard Doss

48 Lake Martin Living

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Blue Ribbon Dairy, LLC Saturday, June 5, 2021 Tallassee 1. Clara Jane Sanders 2. Anita Holley and Brenda Mosey 3. Adaline and Harper Sexton 4. Michaela Sander, Mona Kabel and Ron Clardy 5. Patricia White, PJ Duke, Clara Jane Sanders, Laura Taylor and Lauren Clardy 6. Camdyn, Evy, Nate and Chelsea Dickson

Lake Martin Living 49

OH SNAP! 2

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Alexander City Farmer's Market Saturday, June 5, 2021 Alexander City 1. Kristen and Katelyn Pressnell 2. Barbara Muenzmay 3. Kirstie Spivey and Bernice Whetstone 4. Ricky and Emily Mann 5. Kristy Champion, Margaret and Charles Courtney

50 Lake Martin Living

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Tykes in Trucks Saturday, June 5, 2021 Alexander City 1. Luker, Sarah, Robbie and Finn McKemie 2. Ashley Adams and Angela Jones 3. Patty Walker and Sabella and Seanna Simpsons 4. Gunner, Maddy, Brandi and Ben Saffold 5. Danny Wright and Scott Schumacher 6. Joyce Reaves and Chandler, Kayla and Levi Posey

Lake Martin Living 51

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

ACT II announces auditions Neil Simon's "Plaza Suite" opens in September

Alexander City Theatre II will hold open auditions for their next production, Neil Simon’s Plaza Suite, next month. The comedy in three acts relates the goings-on of three couples that occupy a suite at New York’s Plaza Hotel on three different occasions. The play is set in the late 1960s and early 1970s. There are parts for as many as five females and seven males, but some parts could be double cast, said ACT II president Betsy Iler, who will act as producer for the play.

“We will have three directors for this production, each directing one act,” Iler explained. “All of the directors are board members and have extensive experience with ACT II productions, so our audience will be assured of the quality productions they have become accustomed to with ACT II.” Christale Tuck will direct Act I, the wry tale of a 52 Lake Martin Living

marriage in tatters. In addition to her work with other productions, Tuck was stage manager for ACT II’s recent Driving Miss Daisy, which was staged at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads.

Keith Garrett, an ACT II veteran of five years, will take on the second couple that occupies Suite 719 at the Plaza. In this act, a Hollywood producer invites his childhood sweetheart – now a suburban housewife – to the suite. Garrett played Ebenezer Scrooge in ACT II’s A Christmas Carol in 2019.

Denise Graves will direct the play’s final act in which the parents of a young bride attempt to convince their daughter to come out of the bathroom, where she has locked herself in and declared she will not be married after all. Graves has produced several ACT II shows in the past and directed the popular Cemetery Tour, which featured historic characters from Alexander City’s past. She will revive her role as director for that tour again this October when ACT II will present a new slate of local history makers.

Production dates for Plaza Suite are set for Sept. 16, 17 and 19. There will be no performance on Saturday, Sept. 18, so as not to conflict with college football games, Iler said.

Open auditions for Plaza Suite are scheduled for July 6 and 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the ACT II workspace, 216 Tallapoosa St., Alexander City. Anyone who would like to audition but cannot make these audition times is encouraged to email actheatreii@gmail.com to make other arrangements.

LAKE REGION EVENTS June 15

Summer Series: Carol Barksdale

Carol Barksdale will kick off this series of one-day painting workshops at Tallapoosa School of Art with an introduction to acrylics. This is a beginner level workshop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuition is $150 and includes tuition, supplies, lunch, coffee, tea, bottled water and snacks. For registration and information, email dorothylittleton@gamil.com.

June 17

Paint Your Pet

Spend a delightful evening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with Pursell Farms artists Vaughan Pursell Spanjer, Tim Spanjer and Abby Jessup Little at Hamilton Place as they guide you in painting a picture of your pet.

Cameron Hayes will be on hand with a selection of wines, and Executive Chef Joe Truex will prepare dinner.

No painting experience necessary.

Hamilton Place is located at Pursell Farms, 386 Talladega Springs Rd., Sylacauga. Registration fee is $119 and includes all supplies, wine and dinner. Register at eventbrite.com or through the calendar of events page at pursellfarms.com.

June 19

Juneteenth in Camp Hill

The Camp Hill community will commemorate the 1865 emancipation of slaves in the U.S. with a block party, softball tournament, food vendors, music and fireworks. The celebration will show pride in Black heritage and culture, said Camp Hill Mayor Williams-Cole. For more information, visit the Town of Camp Hill, AL, Facebook page.

June 22

Summer Series: Pam Copeland

Learn oil painting basics with artist Pamela Copeland at this oneday workshop at Tallapoosa School of Art from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuition is $150 and includes supplies, lunch, coffee, tea, bottled water and snacks. For more information, email dorothylittleton@gmail.com for

registration or more information.

June 24

Summer BBQ Social

The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber will host its first 2021 event this summer featuring the local band Blackberry Breeze and good old fashioned barbecue at the beautiful Kylee Cooper Farms. Tickets are $20 and include two drink tokens for beer or wine. Call 256-825-4019 for tickets or stop by the chamber office at 345 E. LaFayette St., Ste. 102.

June 25

Lake Martin Realty Charity Invitational

The Lake Martin Realty Charity Invitational returns to Stillwaters Golf Course for its second charity golf tournament. All proceeds will benefit the Tallapoosa County Girls Ranch.

To sponsor or for more information, contact an agent at the Dadeville office at 256-825-9092.

June 25

Plant Propagation Workshop

The Tallapoosa County Extension office will host a Plant Propagation Workshop on Friday, June 25 the at Calvary Heights Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Alexander City from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

This event is a beginner 101 class and will cover basic propagation techniques for home gardeners like seeds, cuttings and layering. The class will cost $10. Lunch will be provided.

Contact the Tallapoosa County office at 256-825-1050 to register or for more info.

June 26

The Best Things Come in Little Packages

Chef Joe Truex at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga will devote a class to dumplings, a small food that makes a big impression. His discussion will include types of dumplings, their history and the Silk Road, ingredients, gnocchi. He will demonstrate techniques for making his family’s favorite Asian style pot stickers and classic Italian potato gnocchi and offer instruction on hand-picking the best

ingredients for each of these dishes.

Tickets for this class, which begins at 10:30 a.m. and concludes at noon, are $40 and can be purchased through the events tab at pursellfarms.com.

June 27

Sunday Farmers Market

Pennington Park in Dadeville will host a farmers market from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Stop by to pick up local produce and products for your home and table.

June 29

Summer Series: Pam Copeland

Artist Pamela Copeland will present this one-day workshop in painting backlit landscapes in oils from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tallapoosa School of Art for beginners to intermediate level artists. Tuition is $150 and includes supplies, lunch, coffee, tea, bottled water and snacks.

Email dorothylittleton@gmail.com for registration and information.

July 1

Artists Reception

Join Red Hill Gallery at 3284 Red Hill Rd. in Tallassee for an open house artist reception at 5 p.m. Music provided by Jonathan Bloom. Call 334-918-0043 for details.

July 2-3

10th Annual Arti Gras

This two-day juried event on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads features artisans from the Lake Martin area and throughout the Southeast, exhibiting original works in jewelry, reclaimed wood décor, paintings, pottery, metalwork, photography, candles, textile art and more. Vendors are invited to submit applications to Tyler Mitchell tmitchell@russelllands.com.

July 3

Heart of Waverly BBQ

Come out to the yard at Standard Deluxe for big fun with the North Mississippi All Stars, B.B. Palmer, Michelle Malone, Royal Horses and Cary Hudson. For tickets and details, visit standarddeluxe.com.

Lake Martin Living 53

LAKE REGION EVENTS July 3

Season-long Events

Join I AM THEY on the Benjamin Russell High School lawn July 3 at 6 p.m. as they perform in honor of the Fourth of July. Bring cash, lawns chairs, friends and family but leave the pets at home. Food venders will be availble at this family–friendly event.

Alexander City Farmers Market

Celebrate Freedom

July 4

Russell Marine July 4th Boat Parade

Come out to Kowaliga for this much-anticipated annual event, Russell Marine’s patriotic boat parade from Kowaliga Marina to the Children’s Harbor lighthouse and back. Prizes are awarded for biggest flag, tallest flag, most patriotic crew, most patriotic theme and best overall boat and crew.

Bring a lawn chair if you’re observing from the banks. Better yet, register to enter at russellmarine.net/events.

July 4

July 4th Concert and Fireworks

Russell Lands hosts this spectacular fireworks display at Lake Martin Amphitheater to celebrate the American flag and spirit. The show starts at 5:30 p.m. with the Flying Buffaloes, followed

by The Bank Walkers. Sweet Tea Trio will play before and after the fireworks, so bring a lawn chair and get a seat inside the gates. Tickets are $10. Get yours at theamponlakemartine.com.

July 17

Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run

Dress up your friends and your boat and turn out for a fun day on the water to raise money for local charities.

Russell Marine hosts this annual poker run in which costumed players collect cards at designated marinas around the lake to put together a winning hand.

Buy extra cards at the end to better your hand, win money and enjoy the postevent party at The Ridge Marina. Look for registration information and details at RussellMarine.net/events.

54 Lake Martin Living

Now open for the season and operating through Sept. 25, the Alexander City Farmers Market, hosted by Main Street Alexander City, is as much an experience as it is an opportunity to buy fresh produce for your table. In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, jellies, jams, baked goods, bee products and goats’ milk products, you’ll find hand-crafted items from local artisans. Visit with the farmers, meet friends old and new at Broad Street Plaza in Alexander City from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday.

Friday on the Green

Get the weekend at the lake started early when you meet friends and family at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads on Friday nights all summer long, except on June 11 for Jazz Fest in Strand Park. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and the pup on a leash. Pick up snacks at Catherine’s Market, grab a meal from the food truck of the week or bring a picnic and your favorite beverages. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for the lineup and detials.

Music on the Square

Come out to the beautiful Square in downtown Dadeville from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Thursday from May 13 to July 1 to listen to the music, get a bite to eat and socialize with friends old and new. Bring a lawn chair. Visit the Zazu’s Verandah Facebook page for details weekly.

Yoga on the Green

Meet at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads Saturday mornings all summer long for a free yoga session in the beauty of nature. Class starts at 7 a.m., so bring your mat, a towel and water.

Third Thursdays Downtown

Every third Thursday through September, Alexander City downtown businesses will stay open later for shopping and specials. Main Street Alexander City will coordinate an art walk, live music and other events, like

book signings. Purchase a glass of wine at a downtown bar or restaurant and stroll through art at this entertainment district event before dinner.

Bingo Wednesdays

Come out to the alley next door to Castelluccio on Wednesday nights for bingo. Order dinner and wine from Castelluccio or your favorite downtown restaurant and have it delivered to your table. The event is limited to six people per table, and the number of tables is limited to 20, due to social distancing.

Reservations for this weekly event go quickly, so email Main Street Executive Director Stacey Jeffcoat to reserve your table at sjeffcoatmainstreetac@gmail. 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. This exemplary collection includes the famed K&K Dodge, the 1970 Grand National Champion, as well as Aero cars designed for NASCAR. You will see an example of each manufacturer’s highest horsepower cars of 1970, from Dodge to Plymouth, Chevrolet, Buick, Porsche and Oldsmobile. The inventory on display changes frequently, so every visit includes something new and exciting. 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 tour or private tours, email wellbornmusclecarmuseum@gmail.com or call 256-329-8474.

First Saturday Markets

Standard Deluxe in Waverly hosts the First Saturday Market on the first Saturday of each month from now through August. Pick up lunch, local artwork, T-shirts, posters and more from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit standarddeluxe.com for details.

Music at Copper’s Grill

Copper’s Grill hosts music outdoors on the lawn at 7:30 p.m. every Friday.

Bring your own lawn chairs and please keep a proper social distance.

Soup to Go

Drive through the parking lot at St. James Episcopal Church at 347 S. Central Ave. in Alexander City between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. every Tuesday and pick up a free brown bag dinner with soup, sandwich and more. COVID-19 precautions are taken by volunteers who prepare, pack and distribute the meal, which is open to the whole community.

Episcopal Church Services at the Lake

St. James Episcopal Church will hold Holy Eucharist services at noon at Church in the Pines on June 13 and 27, July 11 and 25 and Aug. 8 and 22. For information, visit stjamesalexcity.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 the Ourtown Volunteer Fire Dept. at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads in Alexander City. For more information, contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289.

In Dadeville, the monthly cleanup is held on the first 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 Dianna Porter at 256-7500075.

Library Storytimes

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschoolaged and younger children. In addition, the children’s library hosts board games and puzzles every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For information, call Melissa Finley at 256-234-4644.

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

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.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

Naturalist Marianne Hudson 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. Check out the calendar at russelllands.com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Trivia Night at Niffer’s on the Lake

Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts trivia night at 7 p.m. Winners receive Niffer’s gift cards. First place gets $40; second place gets $25; and third place gets $15. Grab a group of friends and come out for a night of games.

A bonus question is posted on the Niffer’s Facebook page at 2 p.m.

Thursdays.

Coffee & Connections

Every third Tuesday of the month, the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking event at 8 a.m. open to any chamber member. Participants should meet at the TPI bullpen at the Lake Martin Innovation Center for coffee, a light breakfast and a chance to network with community members.

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.

$90

Lake Martin Living 55

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Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

9

Power lines

280

20

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

4

County Roads

15

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Flint Hill Church

22

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Pleasant Grove Church

28

11

9

Mt. Zion Church Russell Farms Baptist Church Friendship Church New Hope Church

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Smith Landing Willow Point

7

Seman

5 Camp Kiwanis

9

12 1 Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

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ali

ga

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21 6

Union Landing

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Walnut Hill

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22 27

Stillwaters

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25 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

Church in The Pines

19

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

10 63 18 11

Equality

231

17

57

9 24

Dade

280

29

Liberty Church

20

Jacksons Gap

26

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

16

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic Santuck

13 Kent Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

56 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUN

Marinas

Daviston

1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 2 The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

22

33. River North Marina 256-397-1500

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 43. Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700

19 Russell Marine Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 5 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026 6 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

hoe Bend nal Park

7 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026 8 Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

CHAMBERS COUNTY

Restaurants & Venues

eville

ON NTY

9 Smith's Marina 256-444-8793 smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com

8 SpringHouse 10 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

50

Camp Hill

11 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

23

12 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 13 Acapulco Mexican Grill 334-283-2725 2867 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee, AL 36078

280

Waverly

Business & Shopping 50

20 Dark Insurance 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 21 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853 22 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 23 Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847 21300 Hwy. 280, Dadeville, AL 36853

Hotels & Lodges 24 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches 25 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 26 Lake Pointe Baptist Church

8352 AL-50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293

Dock Builders 27 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 28 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment 29 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

14 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

14

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

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 16 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

LEE COUNTY

17 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 18 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

Loachapoka

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

8610 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

14

Notasulga 85 81

If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-414-3174. Space is limited.

Lake Martin Living 57

DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE! Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy.

ATTENTION READERS: Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic some of our distribution locations have changed. This month, you may pick up the most recent issue of Lake magazine at the following locations. If you are ordering take out from any of the restaurants listed below or delivery from any of these groceries, request your free copy of Lake magazine with your order.

ALEXANDER CITY Robinson Iron A & M Plumbing Valley National Bank - 280 Carlos The Body Shop Jake's Moore Wealth Management Carlisle's Wine Emporium CACC Cloud Nine Shay Aesthetics Piggly Wiggly JR's Downtown Girl Russell Do It Center City Hall Dylan Johnson-Country Financial Chamber of Commerce Hillabee Towers Noel Boone George Hardy First Realty Mainstreet Family Care First Insurance Dark Insurance Warren Appliance Grace's Flowers Koon's Korner Marathon - Cherokee Larry's General Merchandise & Grocery Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark Jackson Drugs Alfa BB&T Bank Alex City Marine Valley Bank Main Mortgage Pro AllState Daylight Donuts Hometown Pharmacy Allen's Food Mart (Exxon) Karen Channell - State Farm Insurance Re/Max Around the Lake

58 Lake Martin Living

North Lake Condo River Bend Store River North Marina Lake Martin Building Supply Petro Sho'Nuff BBQ Hair Design King's Furniture Jim Bob's Chicken Fingers Longleaf Antique Mall Jameson Inn Winn Dixie Regions Bank American Inn Russell Medical Center Citgo Hampton Inn Koons II Tallapoosa Ford Days Inn Holley's Home Furniture Jackson's Refrigeration, LLC. Sure Shot Shell - 280 Big B Bar-B-Que Russell Home Decor Jet Pep Comfort Inn Holman Floor Satterfield Inc. A & E Metal Wind Creek (Gate) Wind Creek (Store) Smith Marina on Lake Martin Willow Point (Office) Willow Point Country Club Catherine's Market Badcock Home Furniture Springhouse Restaurant Ridge Club Ridge Marina Kowaliga Marina Sunrise Docks Kowaliga Restaurant Russell Lands Corporate Office Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center Children's Harbor Love Lake Martin Real Estate Office HACKNEYVILLE Hackneyville Water Authority OPELIKA Collaboration Station EQUALITY Five Star Plantation Equality Food Mart Charles Borden Real Island Marina Southern Star Parker Marina

ECLECTIC Nails Lake Martin Marine South Lake Breeze Realty Mitchell's Upholstery Lake Martin Mini Mall Lake Martin Dock Cotton's Alabama Barbecue Russell Do It Center Cozumel 1st Community Bank Johnson Furniture Eclectic Public Library WOW Catering LLC Kickin Chicken DADEVILLE Sigger's Barber Shop American Watersports Raining Dogs Bay Pines Marina Siggers Alabama Power Dadeville Public Library City Hall Dadeville Courthouse Payne's Furniture PNC Bank Home Plate Cafe Valley Bank McKelvey Chevrolet Renfroe's Market Foshee's Boat Doc Lakeshore Pharmacy Russell Building Supply Lakay's TMP Construction Dadeville Chamber of Commerce Farmers & Merchants Bank Store 34 Jim's Pharmacy Shell 280 Root 49 Salon Poplar Dawgs Still Waters Country Club Still Waters Residential Association Fuller Realty Harbor Pointe Marina Oskar's Creekside Lodge Blue Creek Marina Lakeside Marina Niffer's Hwy 50 Eagle Millstone Nursery Lakeside Mercantile Fusion Grill At the Beauty Shop Chuck's Marina Tallapoosa Nutrition

Century 21 - Rhonda Gaskins Nannie Bells Cart & Catering CAMP HILL Lake Martin Pecan Company TITUS Kim's Corner MILLBROOK/PRATTVILLE Gene Jones Insurance Stone & Britt, LLC Millbrook City Hall Millbrook Chamber 1st Community Bank YMCA - Prattville SLAPOUT Lake Pharmacy Boy's Store Austin Flowers WETUMPKA Wetumpka Chamber Hampton Inn Russell Do It Center City of Wetumpka - Administrative Building Hog Rock BBQ Holley Mart WInd Creek Casino Convenience Store Wind Creek Wetumpka 1st Community Bank Valley Bank Brandt Wright Realty Jackson Thornton BB&T Bank Must Stop Cafe Emerald Mountain Store Bumpers Store Busch's Grocery Wetumpka YMCA Friendship Grocery TALLASSEE Marathon Tallassee Chamber Hilltop Grocery Road Runner Cozumel Tallassee Public Library True Value Hardware Walmart Red Hill Gallery Tallassee Eagle State Farm Dr. Parris Mullins Jr. O.D. Guardian Credit Union Get Lake magazine delivered to your mailbox for just $25 per year.

To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

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Lake Martin Living 59

AD INDEX A&M Plumbing.................................................................................... 6

Mainstreet Alexander City.................................................................... 5

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Prime Home Health........................................................................ 8, 40

C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 4 0 Coosa Valley MRI............................................................................... 6 1 DAVCO Development........................................................................ 6 1 Electronic Technology Group.............................................................. 6 1 First Methodist Dadeville/New Water Farms....................................... 6 1 Four Seasons..................................................................................... 6 1 George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 6 Harbor Pointe Marina........................................................................ 4 3 Heritage South Credit Union.............................................................. 4 4 Hinson Galleries................................................................................. 6 0

Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6 Rhonda Gaskins, C21 Lake Area Realty................................................ 3 River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 6 1 Russell Lands....................................................................................... 2 Russell Medical.................................................................................. 6 4 Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................... 5 Security Pest Control.......................................................................... 1 2 Singleton Marine............................................................................... 6 3 Southern Sash................................................................................... 5 9

Insight Contruction.............................................................................. 8

Sunrise Docks.................................................................................... 4 3

Jim DeBardelaben.............................................................................. 1 2

Surgical Dermatology Group.............................................................. 1 2

Jim's Pharmacy.................................................................................. 4 0

Tallapoosa County Board of Education............................................... 2 4

Kowaliga Whole Health..................................................................... 6 1

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Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 15, 61

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Lake Martin Mortgage....................................................................... 5 8

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60 Lake Martin Living

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Lake Martin Living 61

L

Chef 's kiss

ate May makes me smile. The local gardeners pop their tents on highly trafficked Tallapoosa and Elmore county corners. Piles of squash, zucchini and, of course, heaps of homegrown tomatoes are spread out on white plastic fold-out tables. Hand-painted signs adorn the sides of the road that read tomato and boiled peanuts.

Like nail polishes and great sports cars, tomatoes come in a wide variety of colors with exciting names. Did you know that, in addition to red, tomatoes could be green, orange, pink, purple, striped, white or yellow?

I wrote about tomatoes during my time at Wickles Pickles and the great Waverly Tomato Showdown many times. I have tasted many delicious tomatoes and grown my own – the kind that it takes two hands to hold.

I am comfortable declaring that my favorite varietal is the purple (black) tomato. The juicy flesh is more like fruit or steak than vegetable, and I am well aware that a tomato is scientifically a fruit. Slicing into the tomato is like running a sharp knife through a filet mignon that has been cooked to Lacey Howell perfection.

Black Beauty, Black Icicle, Black Krim*, Cherokee Purple*, Rosella, Thorburn’s Terra-Cotta, True Black Brandywine, Violet Jasper all sound like they could be racehorses or Grateful Dead songs.

As I wax poetic, my point is, if you happen upon a purpley– red, veiny–black tomato, do buy it. Then go straight home and make the best tomato sandwich you have ever had in your life.

The BTS is a process, and everyone has an opinion. Since this is my column, I’ll unabashedly share mine.

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees and put your cast iron skillet in, with a pad of real butter. The skillet will be the bacon’s spot to slow cook.

White bread beats wheat bread in the BTS

Culture Shock

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race, and I like to go classic Sunbeam. The bread should stick to the roof of your mouth; that’s the point. I usually like my sandwiches toasted, but during tomato season, I want to keep them fresh.

Slice your tomato into fat slices, at least 2 centimeters thick.

Then add two thick, juicy tomato slices to one side of the bread.

Next, we must talk about mayonnaise and bacon. I could write two separate articles on those items, but seriously, the BTS is not the time for diet light food. Do not cheat yourself here – just make plans to walk an extra mile. I insist upon regular Duke’s mayonnaise, but Blue Plate is tasty, too. It takes at least 1.5 tablespoons of mayo to do the sandwich justice, so apply heartily; and then, lick your butter knife.

Next, salt and pepper both the mayonnaise side of the sandwich and the tomato side.

The bacon should be almost done – done being a figurative word. I prefer my bacon slightly chewy. I also like the good, thick bacon, and I prefer Alabama brands like Conecuh and Zeigler meats. Both are great.

Side note: I think the smell of bacon beats any high fa-lootin’ candle out there.

Now, add at least two bacon pieces by laddering them onto the tomato. Grab a leaf of iceberg lettuce, add it to the sandwich or just lay it on the side to nibble on with a few Wickles Pickles and a crown of raw white onion.

With a final flourish, stack the mayo-sided piece of bread on the stack of deliciousness – hold it with both hands – and dive into the BTS. May the tomato juice forever run down your forearms and don’t forget to follow Waverly Tomato Showdown on Facebook for details on this summer’s event.

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 her Facebook page.

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