From the Editor’s Desk Lake Martin Living
I’ve always enjoyed the night of July 4th. Not for the obvious reasons, either. Sure, I love the fireworks, the community events, the music and the celebrations. I love the smell of gunpowder that fills the air after an impressive firework display, and I love the look of formerlyunrealized power that spreads across the face of a child who holds a sparkler in their hands for the first time.
But, oddly enough, I most love laying my head down at night and hearing the muffled popping of fireworks from miles away. I can’t exactly explain why it’s my favorite part of a day filled with fireworks, barbecue and socially acceptable day drinking. But it is. This year, I was working on July 4, taking photos of the boat parade on Lake Martin and the concert at the Amp. So, nothing stood between me and getting to sleep early, the sound of fireworks lulling me to sleep like soft rain on a windowpane.
In news unrelated to fireworks and barbecue, check out some of our other stories in this month’s edition of Lake Martin Living
On page 24, we introduce a first look at the new Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care, where a host of new specialties will soon provide care to residents of Alexander City and beyond.
Then, check out Betsy Iler’s review of Tallapoosa legend Harold Banks’ new book, where he outlines his journey by solo canoe from the beginning of the Tallapoosa River in Georgia to the Gulf of Mexico. He is the first person to ever do so, and Betsy provides a wonderful account as both a reporter and a friend of Banks’. That story is on page 14.
Finally, turn to page 30 for a photo essay of the Tallapoosa River Fest, our cover photo for this issue.
We at Lake Martin Living hope you had an exciting Fourth of July!
Ben Smith, Editor
Chairman
Kenneth Boone
General Manager
Tippy Hunter
Editor-in-Chief
Betsy Iler
Editor Ben Smith
Creative Services
Audra Spears
Business & Digital Development Director
Angela Mullins
Contributors
Kenneth Boone
Lacey Howell
Shane Harris
Chip East
David Lawrence
George Miranda
Jerry Clark
Gina Abernathy
Audra Spears
Cliff Williams
Abigail Murphy
Henry Zimmer
Melody Rathel
Lizi Arbogast Gwin
Dalton Middleton
Erin Chesnutt
Art Maripol
Bernard Troncale
Audience Development Director
Baily Terry
Marketing/Advertising Sales
Renee Trice
Sam Himes
Gena Kay Dixson
Carmen Rodgers
Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999
Alexander City, AL 35011
256-234-4281
www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving
Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.
The Tallassee Summer Fest was full of ice cream, arts and crafts, petting zoos and warm smiles. The festival is less than five years old, but attendance is growing quickly. Already, the event has solidified itself as a staple of Tallassee entertainment.
Photo by Betsy Iler
IN EVERY ISSUE
FEATURES
14. EPIC JOURNEY
Harold Banks has published his solo canoe adventure on the Tallapoosa River.
24. ADVANCED CARE OPENING
Russell Medical opens Phase I of the Legacy Project, the new Center for Advanced Care.
30. TALLASSEE SUMMER FEST IN PICTURES
Relive a great summer day in downtown Tallassee through this collection of photos.
AROUND
Alabama Expos win Global World Series
A youth baseball team comprised of players from Tallapoosa and Elmore counties competed and won at the highest level of USSSA ball.
The Alabama Expos, competing in 13U, traveled to Panama City Beach for the week-long USSSA Global World Series tournament, from June 11th to the 16th. The boys finished out their season with a world series win over a squad from Franklin, Tennessee.
The Expos’ first game against a major team from Gulf Breeze resulted in an 8-0 loss. In the next game, the team rebounded with a 4-2 win over a AAA team from Parker, Colorado. That win was followed by another victory, 12-4, over a team from Arkansas.
The Expos drew the No. 2 overall seed after their pool play performance and parlayed that into a 6-3 win over a squad from outside Dallas.
Local 13U Team Named Best in the World
The team consists of Brancen Arant, Drew Burks, Sebastian Cordova, Ayden Easterling, Tysen Franks, Crimson Hill, Jose Moreno, Jay Oliver, Mason Reay, Crawford Vest and Thomas Xiengsen, and is coached by Chet Sanford, Elliot Reay and Jose Moreno Sr.
In the semifinals, the Expos fell to top-seeded Franklin, Tennessee, with a 6-3 loss, placing the boys in the loser’s bracket. In the first game of the loser’s bracket, the Expos pulled out a gritty 3-1 win over a unit from Cincinnati.
The win over Cincinatti won the Expos a spot in the World Series,
Camp Hill job training center to open soon
Thanks to a grant, the Alabama Center for Rural Organizing and Systemic Solutions in Camp Hill recently purchased property across from the Castle gas station for a multipurpose workforce development center.
This center will provide job training for formerly incarcerated workers.
Creating Opportunities ACROSS will offer training opportunities and other services.
Job trainers will be professionals from within the town.
The facility will also provide senior services and community events, as well as a food pantry.
~Abigail Murphy
in a serendiptious rematch with the Franklin team which had beaten them earlier.
The Expos pulled out a 13-6 win over the Franklin team and were crowned champions.
~Henry Zimmer
Griggs named JPES Teacher of the Year
Teacher Honored Kimberly Griggs (Left) is the reading specialist at Jim Pearson Elementary School.
Reading specialist Kimberly Griggs was named Jim Pearson Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year.
For the last three years, Griggs has worked with students and teachers at JPES to improve student reading skills through reading best practices. Griggs also helps set the reading standards for each year’s assessments.
“I’m very honored,” Griggs said. “It made me feel good that my peers see me in that way. Oftentimes coming out of the classroom, you feel like you’re no longer part of the pack, so it was an honor.”
~Melody Rathel
Wright Design Co.
STORY BY ERIN CHESNUTT
PHOTOS BY BEN SMITH
Aformer filling station in Eclectic was transformed into a home for interior design –The Wright Design Company. But this unique location has a lot more to offer than may be apparent at first glance.
The store opened in 2021, after Logan Wright and her husband, Jeremy, purchased a lake house in Eclectic. They had intended to use it as a rental property, but the couple quickly fell in love with the community, and before long, they decided to make the property their permanent home. Wright was born and raised in Montgomery but didn’t hesitate to move her two daughters Paisley, 11, and Lily, 7.
“I already had a successful interior design business, but I wanted to be part of the community, so we decided to purchase the old filling station,” Wright said.
Her business flourished, and she was involved in decorating projects for several Parade of Homes events. She decided to get her real estate license, so she could work with clients in every step of creating their dream homes.
“I’ve done new builds and remodels, and I assist clients with everything from tile to furniture,” said Wright.
As her interior design business grew, she knew she would need help in the store. She hired Kelley Wallace to help keep the shop open while she was busy with design clients.
“I was an empty-nester looking for something to do, and this job was perfect,” said Wallace.
Wallace also updates the business’ social media regularly, so customers know the moment new items arrive, such as clothing, gift items and shoes, as well as the more-typical home décor. Wright’s goal was to make the shop a place that offered something for everyone.
“I had a boutique in Montgomery before I was married, and I loved finding affordable fashion that’s fun and colorful,” said Wright. “Our clothes are fun and casual. We have a line of tops, skorts and dresses with a UPF 50 that is perfect for the lake or outdoor activities. The items are in the $40 to $60 price range, so they are affordable but still great quality,” said Wright.
Wright also wanted to offer products geared toward men, so she added a section displaying socks with whimsical designs, gourmet barbeque rubs and sauces and even some fun cocktail starters.
Shopping Eclectic
The business continues to expand, and Wright hopes to eventually build a full design studio where her clients can come in to make selections for tile, counter tops, flooring, paint and furniture.
Clockwise from Top: Wright's products are often arranged in intricate vignettes; Soaps, candles, rubs and dressings can also be found at the store; Originally, the building was used as a gas station, but has since been renovated; A wide variety of items are on display at the store.
“I plan to have a kitchen area so clients can better see how tile, counter tops and cabinetry can all come together,” said Wright. She also plans to add a lounge area, so her clients won’t feel rushed to make decisions.
The Wright Design Co. is located at 26 Claud Road in Eclectic and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Follow them on Facebook at The Wright Design Co.
Renewing more than rivers for 25 years.
The Renew Our Rivers program, originated by Alabama Power, has grown into one of the largest river cleanups in the nation. Over 117,000 volunteers have come together to remove 16 million pounds of trash from our Southeastern waterways. We have shown up again and again to preserve the beauty and to create a community that is powering a better Alabama. For 25 years, we’ve been renewing more than rivers.
Scan to view volunteer opportunities.
Epic Journey
Harold Banks publishes his solo canoe adventure on
the Tallapoosa River
REVIEW BY BETSY ILER
PHOTOS BY BERNARD TRONCALE & CLIFF WILLIAMS
Harold Banks has published his epic solo paddling adventure journal, By Paddle and Pack: Headwaters of the Tallapoosa to the Gulf of Mexico, and it is a delightful, entertaining read.
I met Harold Banks in July of 2012, just a few short months after he’d completed the 20-day second leg of his 658-mile journey from Georgia to the Gulf of Mexico. He shared the highlights of his extraordinary exploit with me for an article in the August 2012 issue of Lake Martin Living magazine, a publication I had edited for all of two months at the time.
Since that singular interview, I have come to hold the author in high regard and call him my friend. I admire his unassuming outlook on life, his extensive knowledge of history, his charming wit and his superior writing style. And I found all of these endearing qualities in the pages of his new book. It is a thorough account by the first person to paddle the Tallapoosa River from its inception in a remote ditch in the woods of Paulding County, Georgia, to the seemingly endless expanse of the Gulf of Mexico.
The book’s foreword is expertly written by another of Banks’ dear friends, Dr. Kathryn Braund, a historian by occupation and a preservationist by nature. Braund sets the stage by starting at the end. Her introduction to the humble legend that is Harold Banks begins at a ceremony naming a 25-mile stretch of the Tallapoosa River in his honor: the Harold Banks Canoe Trail. In her foreword, Braund has captured the essence of the man whose journal makes up the magnificent middle of the book. Braund’s remarks are followed by two author’s essays, and Banks ends the book with an epilogue, two additional essays, a gear list, a bibliography and a poem.
In the first essay, Banks depicts his river adventure as a natural extension of the child he was – or more likely, still is – as he provides the background of how his call to journey developed. In the second essay, he outlines his research methods, which were driven by curiosity and a love of being outdoors. It is only fitting, he explains later, that he travels the Tallapoosa, as he spent many years exploring, boating, swimming, and subsequentially swallowing, the river. Being that humans are mostly water, Banks figures he’s about 60 percent Tallapoosa, anyway.
An Epic Adventure
Facing Page: A stretch of the Tallapoosa River was named in Banks' honor; Top: Banks teaches kayaking skills and safety to local school children; Center: Harold Banks's solo canoe trip took him through the state's wild places; Left: The book includes Banks' journal, maps and more.
is adjusted to a hard-won 7, along with the realization that his trip will not be without its difficulties.
The actual day-by-day entries of Banks’ trip begin on page 19. Banks immerses his reader in the grand experience with a humble start – in a creek, barely wider than his vessel, littered with log jams. The first day, his carefully calculated 25-miles-per-day goal
Banks’ account is straightforward, but from the heart of the man in the boat, interspersed with humor, occasional suspense and tour guide-esque descriptions of the places he passes along the way. In reading, I felt like I was having a conversation with my friend. I chuckled to read that his favorite pastime is loitering, and I winced when an abandoned fish hook buried itself in his arm. By page 34, I was blinking tears from my eyes and chided myself because I should have expected no less authentic a tale from Harold Banks.
His entries include little-known snippets of
SUMMERTIME IS A SPECIAL TIME, IS YOUR HEART HEALTHY?
Summertime means time on the water, time away from work, and more time with family and friends.
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
Our expanded clinical team is ready to serve you. Schedule a visit today by calling 256-234-2644.
the area’s history, from Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto’s forays to Civil War battles, Native American settlements and the river shanties of recent times. He offers tidbits of how the river bed’s geology greatly affects its everchanging path. There are cooking lessons, astronomy musings and even a little soul-searching religion in his daily entries.
An essay between the 258mile Tallapoosa descent and the remaining 400-mile float to the gulf explains Banks’ motivation for continuing the journey after a three-year break.
Throughout his entries, Banks keeps both his wit and his wits about him. On page 115, he ponders the need to stay up past the mosquitoes’ bedtime before he dares to pee in the woods. On page 121, he likens coming ashore on a mud bank to walking through chocolate cake icing. I was exhausted alongside him on page 170 after an arduous 28-mile day of paddling, and I caught my breath on page 176 when a slap of the paddle saves him and his gear from rolling into the alligator-infested Mobile-Tensaw Delta.
For all of his poignant vocabulary and perfectly timed asides in the thick of the journal, Banks admits to difficulty in summarizing the meaning of his adventure. It has, after all, been 15 years since he put his canoe in the Tallapoosa’s narrow headwaters. That he feels unchanged is testimony to his character. Perhaps he merely knows himself slightly better after enduring such a wild adventure.
But I feel changed for having read this account of Banks’ odyssey. Like him, I felt a twinge of disappointment when the journey ended at the gulf. It was such a grand adventure, indeed, and a singularly wonderful read.
The print version of Harold Banks’ By Paddle and Pack is available for $19.95 at Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Download the e-edition on Kindle for $12.
P eaches A Summer Favorite
Peaches are a Southern summer favorite. So many delicious options to enjoy fresh peaches, peach pies, peach cobblers, peach shakes, homemade peach ice cream… This wonderful fruit can be successfully grown all across the state. However, to produce the best of these tasty treats, peach crops need to be carefully managed if you wish to grow your own, your local Extension office can offer advice on proper care and maintenance.
Deciding which peach trees to plant is important, because the same peach tree varieties are not recommended for every part of the state. To be productive, peach trees need a certain number of chill hours – the amount of time
spent in the cold needed for a plant to resume normal growth in the spring. Chill hours are accumulated at temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit and measured from October 1 to February 15.
If a peach with a low chill hour requirement is planted in North Alabama, the tree will bloom too early and will most likely be negatively affected by frost/freeze events. If a peach with a high chill hour requirement is planted in South Alabama, the tree will not grow properly in the spring, resulting in no fruit, or sometimes even the tree’s death.
Growers must choose peach varieties that ar4e suitable for their locations. Most varieties recommended for Central Alabama have
chilling requirements of 650 to 850 hours. Other factors to consider are harvest dates, flesh color, cling (flesh that attaches tightly to the pit) and freestone (flesh that slips from the pit).
Some recommended early peach trees for Central Alabama include Rich May, Carored, Springprince, Rubyprince, Caroking, Juneprince, Garnet Beauty, Gala, Sureprince and June Gold. Recommended mid-season peaches for Central Alabama include Redhaven, Challenger, Harvester, Southern Pearl (white peach), Fireprince, Nectar (white peach), Intrepid, Blazeprince, Winblo, Bounty, Julyprince, Redglobe, Loring, White River (white peach) and Ruston Red. Recommended late-season peaches for Central Alabama include Jefferson, Early Augustprince, Augustprince, Flameprince, Autumnprince, Monroe and Big Red.
Peaches are self-fertile, so a grower could make fruit even if only one variety was planted. However, a grower could extend the harvest season by planting a few early, a few midseason and a few late varieties of peach trees.
Bare root peach trees should be planted in the dormant season when the trees do not have leaves. Trees in containers can be planted any time of year, but must be watered when planted during the summer months. All peach trees are grafted onto a desirable rootstock, which helps the trees tolerate certain soil borne pathogens and improves tree quality. Therefore, growers should be careful not to plant the tree any deeper than it was grown at the nursery, to ensure that the graft union does not come in contact with the soil.
Peach trees have the capability to set an extremely high number of fruit each year, and leaving too many on the tree will result in smaller fruits and poorer quality. Thinning peaches is the process of removing fruit from the tree to improve the quality of
fruit remaining for harvest.
Not Just a Pretty Fruit
Previous Pages: Choosing the right cultivar is the first step to a bountiful peach harvest; Above Left: Thinning, pruning, pesticides and weed management all play roles in growing peaches; Above Right: At the end of peach-growing road are a variety of delicious ways to eat this sweet treat.
Thinning should be done as early as possible; however, careful consideration should be given to ensure the remaininf fruit are in fact good fruit, and there is no threat of a late season frost event. Hand thinning is the most effective method to properly space fruit. To do this, simply select which fruit should remain on the shoot, then remove all other fruit by twisting off by hand.
During years with a heavy fruit set, thinning can be a very time-consuming process. Do not thin fruit too early in the season. Sometimes, fruit damaged by the cold will abort at a later time, so it may be best to wait until after a natural fruit drop before thinning too much. Most growers do not thin everything at one time; they usually thin in stages.
GARDEN TALK
A young peach tree has only one shoot. Nurseries sometimes refer to it as a whip. After planting, a grower may cut the whip back to about knee high. Scaffold branches will form at this height, which will develop the branches where the fruit will be produced. After the first year, three to five scaffold branches should be selected to provide the open center shape for the tree. Scaffolds grow at approximately 45-degree angles and should be spaced evenly around the tree.
Mature peach tree pruning should be focused on maintaining the open center shape. Peaches – along with plums, nectarines, cherries and other stone fruits – are usually grown with an open center, so that the sun can ripen the fruit, pesticide sprays
David Lawrence
Chip East
can be applied to improve the air circulation, lowering the liklihood of disease. Maintaining this open shape can be accomplished by removing upright growth in the middle of the tree, thinning out any overcrowded areas and removing any damaged or diseased wood.
as close to blooming as possible. Pruning early may encourage earlier blooming, which could result in cold damage to the blooms. Although shelf life can be reduced, peaches do not ripen after harvest, so waiting until the fruit is fully mature will provide the tastiest bites.
Some common pests associated with peaches include aphids, mites, scale, lesser peachtree borer, peachtree borer, plum curculio, oriental fruit moth, brown rot, scab, stink bug, leaffooted bugs, armillaria root rot and grasshoppers. There are critical times where pesticides can be used to help manage these pests. Some organic options are available as well.
Weed management under the trees is important, along with scouting for insects and disease and applying fertilizer as needed. The area within the drip line of the tree should be kept weed-free using pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. Some backyard growers may choose to utilize mulch to provide a weed barrier. Pesticide spray programs are preventative and should begin during bloom and last until harvest. We have an easy-tofollow spray guide for home fruit production on our web site.
For help on other home and garden questions, contact your local county Extension office or online at aces.edu.
Dr. Chip East and David Lawrence are Regional Extension Agents for Commercial Horticulture for East Central and Central Alabama.
BBQ Smoked Sausage Bites are ideal for any occasion. They provide a perfect blend of smoky, sweet and tangy flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more. They are a must-have for any summer meal, combining simple ingredients with bold flavors.
GOOD EATS
Gina Abernathy
~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.
When the July sun shines bright, there’s nothing quite like gathering for a cookout. Whether hosting a big backyard bash or a casual get-together, BBQ Smoked Sausage Bites are the perfect addition to your menu. This easy, crowd-pleasing recipe combines the smoky flavor of your favorite sausages with the sweet and tangy kick of barbecue sauce and brown sugar, making it a must-try for your next summer event.
Summers are always busy and hot, so I look for easy meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen. With only three ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe lets you spend more time enjoying the company of family and friends and less time being stuck in the kitchen.
These delicious bites are best served warm. If serving as an appetizer, arrange them on a serving platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. For a complete meal, they pair wonderfully with other barbecue side dishes, such as potato salad, coleslaw or corn on the cob.
Ingredients
2 14-ounce packages smoked sausage
1 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
Instructions
Cut each sausage link into round bite-size pieces. Add all ingredients to a bowl and stir until well coated.
If Grilling: Turn the grill to low. Spray a disposable aluminum pan that is safe to use on the grill with nonstick spray. Place smoked sausage bites into pan and grill until hot, sticky and done, turning frequently.
If Baking in the Oven: Place BBQ-covered sausages on a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.
Easy BBQ Sausage Bites
Recipe Tips
• For the best flavor, choose a good quality smoked sausage. Polish, Conecuh or Kielbasa sausages are excellent choices. Feel free to mix and match a few of your favorites to add variety and depth to each bite.
• If grilling, stir the sausages frequently to prevent burning and achieve even caramelization.
• Prep Ahead. You can prepare this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook.
Advanced Care Opening
On Feb. 8, 2022, Ben Russell thrust his shovel into a pile of dirt, marking the ceremonious beginning of the construction process for the new Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care. The new healthcare facility finished construction late last June and is slated to receive its first patient July 29.
The 26,000 square-foot facility is the result of a $25 million donation from Ben and Luanne Russell –the largest in the history of Russell Medical – and is located near the existing Russell Medical Center on U.S. Route 280. The facility will be home to specialties never-before seen in the Russell Medical System, such as geriatrics, rheumatology, endocrinology, podiatry and psychiatry. The creation of these offices will see many patients in Alexander City and surrounding cities forgo long drives to metro areas to receive specialized care – drives that are weekly occurrences for those in a more consistent need of care.
“With the growth of the lake, a lot of people are retiring here,” said Kimberly Carter, manager of physician and business development at Russell Medical. “And so, with an increase in age comes more of a need for health care. People need their health care here, rather than in Birmingham or Auburn, or those larger metro areas. They can just do it right here, at home.”
STORY BY BEN SMITH PHOTOS COURTESY OF ART MARIPOL
Ready to Serve
Previous Pages: Construction was completed on the Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care in June; This Page Top: The new center will house a host of specialties on its first floor, and may add a few new ones on the second; Bottom: These specialities will fill gaps in Alexander City's current healthcare system.
In addition to the Center for Advanced Care, the campus will eventually be home to a 32-bed assisted living center, named the Ben and Luanne Russell Assisted Living Lodge, as well as 26 independent living cottages, known as the Hendrix Cottages. At Lake Martin Living’s press time, six cottages had been completed and were move-in ready, and six more were expected to be completed by the end of September. The units were designed and decorated in large part by Luanne Russell herself, who wanted each cottage to have a unique style.
“So, when you go over to visit your neighbor’s house, their living room doesn’t look exactly like yours,” said Carter.
The creation of the Center for Advanced Care, the assisted living facility and the retirement community is the first of a threephase master plan, collectively called the Russell Legacy Project. Phase 1 aims to increase access to geriatric services in the area − a need that is only expected to increase in coming years as more retirees move to the area and life expectancies rise.
“We’re not just focused on geriatrics,” said Carter. “There is a plan to touch all age groups within the community. But of course, geriatrics, with the growth of the lake, is becoming more and more prevalent.”
Dr. Robert Edwards will be the facility’s geriatrician and will see patients 80 years old and above, as well as patients 65 years old who are dealing with two or more comorbidities. As a geriatrician, his job will be to look at an individual’s health from a holistic standpoint, taking into account various medications and health histories alongside other specialists’ opinions to provide allencompassing healthcare.
“So, he’s not taking the place of that primary care physician, necessarily, he’s really looking at health from a 50,000-foot view,” said Carter. “He is really that
person who is connecting all of those dots, and not just looking at that one specific area of your body, but the entire body.”
Carter said around 85 percent of the physician hiring process has been completed at this point. It has been a careful, methodical search for exactly the right people to fill these positions.
“I could easily find a physician to fill the slot who checks all the boxes, but we really want to look for who’s the right fit,” said Carter. “Because I want someone who is going to be here for the next 30 years, and I want someone that’s going to fit in with the culture and get involved in the community. So, it takes us a little bit longer to fill some slots from a recruitment standpoint, because we are looking for that right fit.”
Bright Space
A primary focus of the Russell Medical system has been to avoid duplicating resources, said Carter. In an area where access to certain forms of healthcare can be limited or nonexistent, there is no sense having two clinics for podiatry, for example, and none for neurology. That philosophy has allowed for an increase in access to more forms of health care for people living in the Lake Martin area.
Clockwise from Top: Physician recruitment has been a long, careful process; Patients will be seen starting July 29; Carter hopes to recruit physicians who will take to the small-town living of Alexander City.
Tallassee Summer Fest
sale.
Summer in Downtown Tallassee Clockwise from Above: Festival goers picnic and rest in the shade at the park; Kids cooled off in the water slide; Hot air balloon rides were a popular attraction; Jubilee Farms brought in animals for a petting zoo; More than 30 kids entered the watermelon eating contest; dozens of vendors offered a wide variety of handmade and home grown goods for
Watermelons were eaten, quickly and competitively. Children slid down waterslides, rode ponies and climbed a rock wall. Dogs were dressed up. Tents sold everything from honey to handmade wooden bird houses. There was a facepainting station, a petting zoo and, most evidently, a hot air balloon. To cap it all off was a firework display over the Tallapoosa River.
The Tallassee Summerfest was a day for the people of Tallassee. According to Director of the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce Jerry Cunningham, the idea was to add vibrancy, life and energy to the community.
As the festival continues to grow, Cunningham and the Board of the Tallassee Chamber of Commerce hope to adapt to the desires of the community, so they may continue to provide a valued experience to those who live in the small, special communtiy.
PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER & CLIFF WILLIAMS
So Much to Do, So Little Time
Clockwise from Above: Booths included colorful displays; The St. Vincent Knights of Columbus served hundreds of pancakes to a never-ending line of hungry patrons; Watermelon eating contestants devoured juicy fruits in a matter of minutes; Sweet treats were available; The hot air balloon towered over the festivities; Art booths showed lots of personality; Will Shale scaled the rock wall exhibit; The waterslide was busy all day; Pony rides will be remembered for a lifetime; Crafters brought whimsical items.
Ten Signs of Early Alzheimer's Disease
• Memory loss that affects everyday life, such as forgetting recently learned information or important dates.
• Trouble following a plan or solving problems, such as managing bills or keeping track of medications.
• Difficulty performing everyday tasks, such as driving, cooking, or dressing.
• Confusion about time and place, like forgetting where one is, or how one got there.
• Visual disturbance and difficulty with spatial relationships, which may make it dangerous to drive.
• Difficulty communicating, like having trouble participating in a conversation, repeating themselves or stopping in the middle of a sentence and not being able to finish it.
• Misplacing items and not being able to retrace one’s steps to find them, or leaving items in strange places.
• Changes in judgment or decision-making, such as making poor choices or neglecting personal hygiene.
• Withdrawal from social activities or abandoning favorite hobbies or pastimes.
• Mood and personality changes, such as becoming depressed, anxious, irritable, or paranoid.
~ The Alzheimer's Association
Alzheimer's and Dementia
An estimated 6.7 million Americans are afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That number is expected to increase to 14 million by 2060.
There are several types of dementia: Frontotemporal dementia, which tends to occur in people younger than 60; Lewy body dementia, caused by abnormal protein deposits called Lewy bodies; and Vascular dementia, caused by damage to blood vessels in the brain. But Alzheimer’s is by far the most prevalent form of dementia, accounting for as much as 80 percent of dementia cases. According to the National Institute on Aging (part of the National Institutes of Health), Alzheimer’s is currently ranked as the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.
The disease causes neural fibers to become tangled, accumulating a sticky protein called beta amyloid into globs called plaques, which gum up the brain in a way similar to the plaques that clog arteries and cause cardiovascular disease.
Alzheimer’s disease is an insidious disease, gradually robbing people of their mental abilities over time. It progresses through three basic stages.
The early stage is marked by mild cognitive impairment. The affected person may function independently but begins to notice memory lapses. They may forget familiar words or the locations of everyday objects. They begin to experience difficulties remembering names and performing once-simple tasks.
Middle stage Alzheimer’s manifests itself in more pronounced dementia symptoms. The person may get frustrated or angry and act in unexpected ways, such as refusing to bathe. Symptoms may include: becoming moody or withdrawn; forgetting information once easily recalled, like their address or telephone number; becoming confused about where they are or what day it is; and exhibiting an increased tendency to wander.
In late-stage Alzheimer’s, persons lose the ability to
interact with or control their environments. They can no longer control their thought, their speech or their movements. At this stage, individuals usually require aroundthe-clock care.
What we know about Alzheimer’s and dementia would fill a five-gallon bucket, compared the ocean of our ignorance. But great strides are being made in research every day. Thanks to the Human Genome Project, scientists have discovered more than 80 chromosomal regions associated with Alzheimer’s, but only three genes that they know cause the disease: APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2.
MEDICAL NEWS
Several variants of the APOE gene are also known to influence the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, with one specific variant, APOE ε4, having a deleterious effect. Another variant, APOE ε2, may actually provide some protection against Alzheimer’s. Genetic tests are available to detect these genes, but they do not necessarily help predict one’s risk of developing the disease.
Physicians must use a battery of tools to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, including administering cognitive tests and physical exams and compiling a thorough medical history. They will also order CT scans, MRI’s and/or PET scans to diagnose the disease, which is as much a process of ruling out other causes of the symptoms as it is directly identifying the culprit as Alzheimer’s.
One exciting development is the invention of the amyloid PET scan. Unlike typical fluorodeoxyglucose PET, which measures metabolic activity in the brain, this new diagnostic material seeks out and attaches to the amyloid plaques in the brain – the signature of Alzheimer’s – causing a brain infected with these plaques to light up like a Christmas tree on the computer monitor.
This is exciting, because there is now a treatment that actually removes these amyloid plaques from the brain and bloodstream. The drug, lecanemab (brand name Leqembi), is an infusion administered every other week. It is intended for patients with early Alzheimer’s. Because it is an antibody therapy, it comes with attendant risks, including severe hypersensitivity reaction to the drug. But the most significant complication associated with the drug is a syndrome called ARIA (amyloid-related imaging abnormalities), which causes swelling or bleeding in the brain. ARIA tends to happen early on in treatment and is detectable with MRI. Because of this risk, the drug should be initially prescribed by a neurologist and administered in a facility capable of intervening should ARIA be suspected.
The good news is that Dr. Robert Edwards, the geriatric specialist at Russell Medical, is collaborating with the department of Neurology at UAB Medicine to provide the subsequent infusions of Leqembi at the UAB Medicine-Russell Medical Cancer Center in
Alexander City. Patients will be evaluated in Birmingham and have their first several infusions there. Once the risk of ARIA is abated, the patient can then transfer care to Dr. Edwards.
Alzheimer’s disease arguably affects the caregiver as much as the patient. There is an excellent book, published in 2012 but still quite relevant, titled The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide for Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Related Dementias, and Memory Loss, by Nancy Mace and Peter Rabins.
Flint Hill Church has also started a support group for caregivers that meets on the first Monday of the month at 1 p.m. at the church. For more information, contact the church administrator, Mary Wood Perry, at 256-234-5047.
As of yet, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are several medicines that may delay its progression, and one that may actually reverse the disease process. And medical science is making great strides in advancing our understanding of the disease, which will result in even better treatments, and possibly, a cure.
~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine –Russell Medical Cancer Center.
George Miranda
Four Quick Tips
Have you ever considered buying a second home on Lake Martin? As a banker, I see a national demand for the Lake Martin area as property values continue to increase. Now is a great time to explore your financing options and find the perfect home. Properties have been selling fast, which means that at any moment, the dream lake house you’ve had your eye on could come on the market. While interest rates might impact your purchasing plan, it’s important to seize the opportunity when it arises. You could always refinance when better rates become available. If you’re considering buying a second property, here are some tips to remember.
1.Have a plan for the property. Are you buying this as an investment property? Or, maybe it’s a retirement getaway you hope to eventually leave to the grandkids. No matter the reason, make sure you have a clear purpose, because this can affect your financing options. If you’re buying an investment property, you’ll usually need a higher down payment and more substantial reserves. However, if you plan to rent out your second home occasionally without formal operation by a property management company, these requirements may not apply.
2.Consider the additional costs of a second home. In addition to your mortgage payment, you must budget for water, power, cable, internet services, insurance, maintenance and upkeep, among other things. If you decide to rent your property out, there may be property management fees and additional insurance requirements. Or, if you opt for a condo as a second home, keep in mind that you will likely have to pay a monthly homeowners association fee in addition to your mortgage.
Jerry Clark
3.
Review your plan and purpose with a financial advisor Each buyer is unique, and various factors such as job status, retirement status and financial reserves should all be considered when purchasing a home. Discussing these factors with a financial advisor will help you craft a plan to buy a second property. Most importantly, they’ll help you evaluate whether the investment is risky or safe for your situation. If you don’t have a financial advisor, talk with your banker, as they may connect you with a financial planner who can provide personalized advice.
4.
Engage your banker early in the process. With a thorough understanding of your financial situation, goals and plans, your banker can assist you in finding the right financing options to ensure your path to financial success. A banker can then help you get pre-approved, so you’re ready when the time comes. If you’ve been thinking about buying a second home, but you’re not sure yet, talk to your banker. You might be surprised to find out that you may already have what you need to make it happen.
You don’t have to be rich or independently wealthy to buy a second property, but you do need to have a plan, a good banker and a trusted financial advisor to make sure a second home is a feasible investment.
~ Jerry Clark is an Alabama Mortgage Sales Manager, at Valley Bank, Alexander City branch. He has been banking in the area for over 22 years. Contact at 334.744.9001 or jclark@valley.com. The Valley National Bank NMLS number is 411254 and Clark’s NMLS number is 642761.
*This article is for informational purposes only. Any views, thoughts and opinions expressed herein are solely that of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Valley National Bank.
Lake Martin Amphitheater
1. Gray Souphom and Charlie Schroeder
2. Lorrie Ross
3. Caleb Beasley and James Duckett
4. Toya Cathey, Crystal Adams and Sharon Webley
5. Dawn Bunn and Jessica Mann
6. Abigail Murphy and Henry Zimmer
McWane Center Presentation
Tuesday, June 25, 2024
Dadeville Public Library
3.
1. Lynda, Peyton and Pearson Thurlow
2.Beau, Sharon, Evie and Landry Cox
Lawson and Jennifer Hodge
4. Ryan, Lauren and Henry Rawls
5. Ryan McCollum, Julie Corcoran and Draeson Golden
6. Lorelei and Harper Lampe
1. Mikayla Harris
2. Jade Cole
3. Lizi Gwin
4. Chris and Mallory Gaston, Jennifer Clanton, Ashley Grant and Nick Adams
5. Anna Tucker, Joshua and Kaylee Bence and Jackson Tucker
6. Charles Gwin, Holly Bailey, Baily Terry and Samantha Himes
5.
1. Steve Moore and Caron Finney 2. Amy and Mark Metzger
3. Amy Whittenburg and Julie Moncrief
4. Edgar and Melanie Sellers
Jamie and Roger Sailors 6. Jaclyn and Josh Decker and Taylor Hughes
Tykes in Trucks
Strand Park, Alexander City
1. Zesiaha and Adriaha Heard
2. Matti James, Libbie, Chelsea and Jonathan Wilhite
3. Josiah and Vivian Reese, Canaan Heard and Jace Reese
4. Jordan Reese
5. Annie Bartol and Atticus and Finn Blue
6. Beau George
7. Jack Palmer and Henn and Winnie Rowe
Russell Lands July 4 Concert & Fireworks
Thursday, July 4, 2024
Lake Martin Amphitheater
1. Crystal Caldwell and Jeremy Lewis
2. Bo and Dorris Stewart
3. Tommy and Austin Loy
4. Levi, Celeste, Krew and Cohen Lewis
5. Sara, Shirley, Harley and Katrina Poole
6. Greenleyigh Key, Luke Jones and Jordan Holman
7. Maria and Josh Day and Taylor and Grainger Shelley
THE LAKE REGION
Calendar
FEATURED EVENT
LIVING HISTORY Tour ACT II to hold open auditions
A second edition of the Alexander City Theatre II Living History Tour will highlight eight new characters from the area’s past, including William Benson, Dadeville’s Barbara Cole and Tom Radney. With performances set in October, ACT II production director Rodney Meadows will hold auditions Aug. 9 and 10 in Alexander City.
“We had originally planned to stage this production in 2020, but when COVID hit, we had to put it on hold. We’re glad to finally be able to bring this show to the area,” Meadows said.
ACT II’s Living History Tour II will be offered free of charge at the United Way conference room in downtown Alexander City as part of the Downtown Trick or Treat and Fall Festival event on Oct. 26. Actors will appear in costume to talk about their roles in the area’s history.
Auditions will be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 10, at the ACT II Fine Arts Center at 216 Tallapoosa Street in Alexander City. Those auditioning will read excerpts from prepared scripts for the characters.
William Benson was instrumental in establishing a postwar school in the late 1800s to teach trades to formerly enslaved people. Barbara Cole was a prominent educator who grew up at Martin Dam Village, and Tom Radney was a local attorney and integrationist who served in the Alabama State Senate from 1966 to 1971.
Also represented among the characters will be longtime Tallapoosa County Probate Judge C.J. Coley and his wife, Evelyn McCord Coley; Roberta Baumgardner, who paved
the way for women’s varsity sports when she joined the men’s tennis team at the University of Alabama in 1963; beloved school superintendent Jim Pearson; Alexander City’s Ruby Carlisle; and Coach Hamp Lyon.
“Hamp Lyon played football for Bear Bryant. He coached football and wrestling in Alexander City, and every kid in school was afraid of him because he was so big, but he was a wonderful man,” Meadows said.
Actors will learn stories and events from these characters’ lives and rehearse their telling to become familiar with the material and the personalities of the individuals. Each character has been researched by ACT II volunteers and TPI reporters for The Alex City Outlook and The Dadeville Record. When possible, descendants of the characters were interviewed in the script-writing process.
The first Living History Tour event was held at the City Cemetery in 2019 in conjunction with Russell Medical Foundation. It featured stories from the lives of the unnamed young lad who saved the First Presyterian Church from the devastating fire of 1902; late Russell Brands President Billy Hardy; Phala Graves; local radio show hostess Louise Day; Roberta Russell, the wife of Benjamin “Mr. Ben” Russell; Sara Robinson, who was influential in choosing colors and designs at Robinson Iron; and the late Ralph Frohsin, who is credited with hosting the Alexander City Jazz Fest in 1991.
For more information about the auditions, contact Meadows at 256-749-3764.
July 15-18, 22-25
& July 29-Aug. 1
Summer Arts Camp
Children will explore and develop skills in music, drama, dance and visual arts from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at this four-day arts camp at Dadeville Performing Arts Center. The camp is free for Tallapoosa County residents. Limited registrations are available for $80 to nonresidents. Register at dadevilleperformingsarstcenter.com/ tickets-reservations.
July 16
Animology with Bob Tarter
Bob offers a fun, fresh approach to learning at this summer reading program at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City. The program begins at 10 a.m. This is a free presentation, and all children are invited to attend.
July 16
Author Negrita Smart
Children’s author Negrita Smart will visit the library at 10 a.m. for a special story time. An award winning author and Dadeville native, she has written a book series centered around a fictional 5-yearold girl named Grace, whose experiences share life lessons with children.
July 18 Wake Clinic
Get some experienced, professional help developing that new wake trick you want to learn this summer by signing up for this Russell Marine clinic at River North Marina. Bring your board and life jacket. Group 1 starts at 3:30 p.m. and finishes at 5 p.m. Group 2 starts at 5:30 p.m. and finishes at 7 p.m. Cost is $35 per person, which includes use of the boat and any additional equipment or accessories needed. Call 256-786-2034 or email tdonahoo@russelllands.com to get on the schedule.
July 18
Tommy Johns Magic Show
The magic adventure begins at 10 a.m. at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City. This is a free summer reading program event.
July 19
Day of Action
LAKE REGION EVENTS
Sign up now and roll up your sleeves to help Lake Martin Area United Way volunteers take on cleanup projects at Central High School in Coosa County. From landscaping to painting hallways and cleaning lockers, there’s plenty of work for everyone. Day of Action shows kids we care! Register online at unitedwaylakemartin.org/dayofaction.
July 20
Lions Lake Martin
Charity Poker Run
Dress up your boat and crew for the 21st Annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run, touring the marinas around the lake to build your best poker hand and raise money for local charities. Pick up freebies at every stop and end the day with an awards party and memories to last a lifetime. For more information, visit russelllands.com/blog/events.
July 20
Black Jacket Symphony
Black Jacket Symphony will return to Lake Martin Amphitheater at 7:30 p.m. to recreate Journey’s “Escape” album, featuring Don’t Stop Believin’, Who’s Crying Now, Open Arms and more. Tickets are $40 and are available at ticketmaster.com.
July 20
Last Day to Log Summer Reading Books
Be sure to log books on the Beanstalk app or turn in log sheets at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library to be eligible for prizes as this year’s Adventure Begins at Your Library summer reading challenge.
July 21
Farmers Market at Pennington Park
Don’t miss the last Pennington Park Farmers Market of the season from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. You’ll find a wide assortment of fresh produce and handmade goods.
July 24
AACA hosts Campbell Anderson
Auburn portrait artist Campbell Anderson will be the guest speaker at the July meeting of the Artists Association
of Central Alabama at 9:30 a.m. in the Senior Center at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City. She will discuss her approach to portraits in oils and acrylics, including glazing, colors and layers. In addition, she will host a portrait series workshop on Saturdays in August for AACA members. Membership is $20 per year. The August workshop series fee is $80. Email Anderson at campbell.a.art@gmail.com or register at the July AACA meeting.
July 24-28
Lake Martin Songwriters Festival
Rock the lake all week long as Tallapoosa County Lake Martin Tourism presents the 4th Annual Lake Martin Songwriters Festival featuring 30 awardwinning artists at 17 venues around the lake. Hear the stories behind radio hits, hear songs performed by the artists who wrote them and experience the lake as you never have before. The music is free, and the fun is unforgettable. Visit lakemartinsongwritersfestival.com for the lineup and more details.
July 25 Wake Clinic
Get some experienced, professional help developing that new wake trick you want to learn this summer in this longer than usual this Russell Marine clinic from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at River North Marina. Bring your board and life jacket. Cost is $50 per person. Call 256-7862034 or email tdonahoo@russelllands. com to get on the schedule.
July 25
Oxbow Meadow Reptiles
Join the summer reading challenge finale at 10 a.m. at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library as Oxbow Meadow Reptiles shares facts and fun with reptiles. Ernie’s Hotdogs will be on site with Frost Bite Ice Cream, and reading prize awards.
July 27
East Alabama Horseman’s Association Show
The End of Season Show will be held at the Chambers County Ag Arena in Lafayette. The show will start at 11 a.m. with timed events starting after 3 p.m. Robert Reams will coordinate. Contact him at 334-502-2402.
LAKE REGION EVENTS
July 27
Around the World – Opa! Grove Station’s Around the World Dining Experiences visits Greek cuisine 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the loft at 19 Sistrunk Street, Tallassee. Enjoy some of the most iconic dishes from the birthplace of culture, philosophy and art. Tickets are $100 and are available at tickets.atgrovestation.com. Park in the rear of the building and enter through the back door on the right.
Aug. 1
Wake Clinic
Get some experienced, professional help developing that new wake trick you want to learn this summer by signing up for this Russell Marine clinic at River North Marina. Bring your board and life jacket. Group 1 starts at 3:30 p.m. and finishes at 5 p.m. Group 2 starts at 5:30 p.m. and finishes at 7 p.m. Cost is $35 per person, which includes use of the boat and any additional equipment or accessories needed. Call 256-786-2034 or email tdonahoo@russelllands.com to get on the schedule.
Aug. 1
Becoming an Outdoors Woman Registration Opens
See the list of classes and class descriptions and register for this October women’s-weekend workshop at outdooralabama.com/bow. Enrollment is limited, and classes tend to fill quickly. Registration fee is $275, which includes meals, dormitory-style lodging, program materials and instruction. Participants must possess a valid all game, small game, freshwater fishing, wildlife management area or Wildlife Heritage license. Classes are designed for women 18 years and older. Event takes place near Columbiana, Alabama.
Aug. 3
Fly Farther with Lift E-Foils
Learn to get the most out of battery life and gain comfort for longer distance rides from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at River North Marina. No prior experience required, but returning riders will stretch their range on the lake. Contact Tori Donahoo at 256-658-3088 or email her at tdonahoo@russelllands.com. Cost is $125.
Aug. 8
Wake Clinic
Summer isn’t over yet! There’s still time to land that trick behind the boat. Get some experienced, professional help at this Russell Marine clinic at River North Marina. Bring your board and life jacket. Group 1 starts at 3:30 p.m. and finishes at 5 p.m. Group 2 starts at 5:30 p.m. and finishes at 7 p.m. Cost is $35 per person, which includes use of the boat and any additional equipment or accessories needed. Call 256-786-2034 or email tdonahoo@russelllands.com to get on the schedule.
Aug. 9
Alexander City Chamber Golf Open
Take a swing at winning some great prizes at the 4th Annual Chamber Open Golf Tournament. Look for registration and play details at alexcitychamber.com.
Aug. 10
Author Caroline Rhodes
Dadeville Center for Performing Arts will host Caroline Rhodes, author of Library Girls of New York, at 10 a.m., courtesy of Dadeville Public Library. Admission is free.
Aug. 15
Cover Crops for a Home Garden
Advanced Master Gardener Carole Borowski will present a program about the varieties of cover crops at 11 a.m. at Red Ridge United Methodist Church in Dadeville. The program is free and open to the public.
Season-long Events
Farmers
Market
The Alexander City Farmers Market has moved to Calhoun Street downtown this summer. Arrive early, as the market is open only from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., and you want to be sure to have the pick of the best locally grown produce and other artisan goods offered every Saturday through September. For more information, contact Main Street Alexander City at 256-307-3949.
Driving & Docking
Sign up for free driving and docking classes from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Singleton’s Blue Creek Marina. Learn the
ins and outs of safely navigating under the guidance of seasoned instructors. Gain confidence in maneuvering safely, so your time on the water this summer is filled with stress-free adventures. Call 256-825-8888 to reserve a spot in the class of your choice.
• Pontoons: Aug. 1
• Sterndrives: July 18 & Aug. 8
• Towboats: July 25 & Aug. 15
LMYP Game Night
Every third Thursday of the month, grab your crew and meet at The Local at 41 Main in downtown Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for games, laughs and exclusive LMYP drink specials. It’s free to play the games, like trivia and bingo and more, and the grand prize is always $50. Visit the Lake Martin Young Professionals Facebook page.
Music in the Air
Come out to Zazu’s Verandah on the beautiful courthouse square in Dadeville from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. every Thursday for an evening of music, meeting friends and enjoying the community. Beverages will be for sale at Zazu’s, but the music is free. Please tip the musicians.
Yoga on the Green
Bring your mat, water and a towel to the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m. every Saturday through Sept. 28 to start your day at the lake well. Certified instructors are provided by Russell Lands for this free event.
Friday On The Green
Friday nights all summer long, Russell Lands hosts free music and lawn games on the Town Green from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, coolers, kids and the pup on a leash to start your weekend at the lake with family and friends.
Stillwaters Dog Fight Golf
Join golfers of all ages and abilities at Stillwaters Golf Club at 10 a.m. every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday for an open golf event. In addition to regular golf fees, players pay a small entry fee of $7 or $15, depending on the day. For details, call the golf shop at 256-825-1353.
Wellborn Musclecar Museum
The Wellborn Musclecar Museum collection of great American automobiles of the 1960s and 1970s is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This exemplary collection includes the famed K&K Dodge, the 1970 Grand National Champion, as well as Aero cars designed for NASCAR. The 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 admitted free. Email wellbornmusclecarmuseum@gmail.com for group tours or call 256-329-8474.
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
Come see Naturalist Marianne and her lively nature presentations at the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature. Check the calendar at RussellLands.com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.
Charity Bingo at Niffer’s Place Lake Martin
Niffer’s, 7500 state Route 49 in Dadeville, hosts charity bingo every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Cards are $1 each, and funds go to participating charities.
Tallassee Lions Club
The Tallassee Lions Club meets every Tuesday at Cozumel Restaurant, across from the football stadium in Tallassee, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. The public is welcome to join for an hour of humor, information, civic pride and patriotism. For more information, call Marilyn Speake at 334-283-6864 or email marilyn.speake@tcschools.com.
Clean Community Partnership Cleanups
Volunteers in Alexander City are encouraged to participate in community partnership cleanups on the second Saturday of every month. Meet at Strand Park at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. For more information, contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289 or Michelle West at 256-786-0584. In Dadeville, the monthly cleanup is held on the second Saturday of the month, and volunteers can pick up sanitized pickers and bags at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall. There also will be a trash bag dropoff on site. Contact Mickey Forbus at 334-329-0905.
Explore
Lake Martin
Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111
The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300
River North Marina 256-397-1500
Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700
Real Island Marina 334-857-2741
Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888
Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550
Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600
Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793
SpringHouse 256-215-7080
Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070
Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035
Acapulco Mexican Gril 334-283-2725
Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567
Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132
Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256
The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333
Kowaliga Whole Health 334-857-1816
Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133
Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847
Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717
Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440
Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820
Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293
Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc 334-857-2443
Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400
Dixie Sailing Club
Lakeshore Pharmacy 256-825-0063
Momentum Marine at Lake Martin 256-825-9286
Spencer Heating and Air at Lake Martin 256-373-3165
Bolton Cove 256-392-7524
DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE!
Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy.
ALEXANDER CITY
Robinson Iron
A & M Plumbing
Carlos
The Body Shop
Walgreens
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.
Jake's
Moore Wealth Management
Carlisle's
Emporium Wine
Longleaf Antique Mall
Playhouse Cinemas
Chamber of Commerce
Winn Dixie
Re/Max Around the Lake City Hall
A&E Metal
Regions Bank
Marathon - 280
Renfroe's Market
Russell Medical Center
Piggly Wiggly - New Site Foodland
DADEVILLE
Chamber of Commerce
Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery
Root 49 Salon
Ellaby Boutique, LLC
Alabama Power
Siggers
Siggers Barbershop
Fusion Cafe
Dadeville Library
CAMP HILL
Link Gas Station
EQUALITY
Five Star Plantation
Equality Food Mart
Southern Star
Parker Creek Marina
Charles Borden
ECLECTIC
Lake Breeze Realty
Offshore Marina
LES WEBB Your Trusted Local Expert at the Helm
Dear Lake Martin Community,
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you! Momentum Marine has joined your neighborhood with the recent acquisition of LakeSide Marina. Last fall, Andrew Campbell and Josh Russom, renowned for their successful boat dealerships in Georgia and Florida, chose to bring their expertise to our beautiful Lake Martin.
What’s New at Momentum’s LakeSide Marina?
. Les Webb, a familiar face and long-time Lake Martin resident, is leading our operations. Known for his deep community ties and exceptional service, Les is ready to bring his expertise to our marina.
. Upholding Momentum Marine’s legacy of transparency and unparalleled customer service, our Lake Martin team is committed to providing you with the best boating experience.
. We’ve spent the winter rejuvenating the marina! Enjoy our 25 new rental boats, enhanced facilities, and a diverse range of new manufacturer lines.
. We believe in strong community bonds. Stop by, say hello to Les and the team, and see the new face of Momentum’s Marine Lake Martin!
Join us for our Full Pool Party Saturday, April 20th to celebrate Lake Martin’s Seasonal filling! We will have Live music, BBQ, craft beer, acoustic music, boat demonstrations, and chance to meet Les and the team!
Come experience the new LakeSide Marina by Momentum Marine. Your friends at Momentum Marine Lake Martin.
The times they are a'changin'
July has finally arrived, and I write this in the shade of an oak tree, sitting at a picnic table on Samford Lawn in Auburn. The wind is strong today and feels great. Finding myself with a light workload and some cloud cover, I eased on down 280 to the Plains in search of a little inspiration and a sandwich. Both of which I found at an old haunt of mine: Momma Goldbergs.
Culture Shock
The exterior is more spruced up than it was in the early 2000s, when I was a student at Auburn. But the inside remains blessedly the same. In operation since 1976, it is an old dive bar where the white hoagie sandwiches are steamed and coated in a special sauce, and the Doritos are covered in pepper jack cheese and jalapeños. I sipped a water and reminisced on some great times with friends, sitting outside with pitchers of ice-cold beer on Momma G’s patio. When you are 19 or 20, you don’t have too many worries or too much sense. I couldn’t see past a Saturday night back then. I then strolled through campus to walk off lunch, and as always, marveled at the constantly-changing landscape. There are always new buildings sprouting up, but plenty stays the same. In that same spirit, I headed toward Haley Center, where most of my English classes took place, to check out the bookstore, the swag and the T-shirts. The store was bustling with future students and their parents. I overhead one family say they were from New York. I walked up the hill toward downtown. I always
tell newcomers to the area that it’s great to be near a college town, surrounded by sports and night life and vibrancy. As time has gone on, Auburn and the greater Lake Martin area have continued to grow toward each other, each area benefitting from the economic growth of the other. Both retain to their characteristic small-town hearts while embracing the growth that is popping up all around them. Sometimes, all you need is a walk down memory lane and a great sandwich to remind you how lucky you are to live where you live. Now, I’m headed home to go swimming.
~ 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.
Lacey Howell
