From the Editor’s Desk Lake Martin Living
Crisp fall days hold wonderful memories for me. My very large family carved pumpkins on a 10foot kitchen island every October. There were 13 of us, and we created quite a mess, as each child had his or her own huge pumpkin to decorate. The older kids supervised, offering creative advice and wielding sharp implements for the younger kids.
We made our own scarecrows, stuffing our clothes with hay from my cousin’s farm – and using my mother’s broomsticks for the frames. And on Halloween night, we broke into bands of three or four to trick or treat through town with one high school sibling charged with the care and keeping of two or three younger ones.
And there were Sunday afternoon drives in the country to admire the displays around town and inspire our decorations at home.
In this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine, Shaylee Beck Moore nudges you to create your own autumn memories in her Go Local column on page 10. She took a tour of local stores and highlights where you can find piles of pumpkins for carving. She found mums for your porches, straw bales for decorating and ready-made scarecrows with their own frames – so the household broomsticks are safe.
Next month, Shaylee will step into the editor’s role for Lake Martin Living magazine, and when I retire next spring, she’ll be managing editor for the magazine division of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. She’s excited about the opportunity to keep you entertained and informed through the magazines’ pages, websites and social media platforms. So, please introduce yourself when you see her covering stories in the area and welcome her to the community.
Also in this issue, you’ll find at least one entry from every artist who submitted work for this year’s Lake Martin Living Art & Photo Contest. We were amazed at the turnout for this year’s champagne reception and art exhibit at Dadeville Performing Arts Center, as the event was held on the night of Hurricane Helene’s very rude landfall. Despite the inclement weather, attendance at the show was far more than we expected, and viewers raved and studied and had a wonderful time. Check out the winners on page 26.
You’ll find these stories and more in this month’s issue of Lake Martin Living magazine.
Betsy Iler, Editor-in-Chief
Chairman
Kenneth Boone
General Manager
Tippy Hunter
Editor-in-Chief
Betsy Iler
Assistant Editor
Shaylee Beck Moore
Creative Services
Audra Spears
Business & Digital Development Director Angela Mullins
Contributors
Kenneth Boone
Ben Smith
Lacey Howell
Shane Harris
George Miranda
Lee Williams
Gina Abernathy
Audra Spears
Cliff Williams
Abigail Murphy
Melody Rathel
Lizi Arbogast Gwin
Sam Higgs
Audience Development Director
Samantha Himes
Marketing/Advertising Sales
Renee Trice
Samantha Himes
Gena Kay Dixon
Carmen Rodgers Erin Vickers
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 $50 annually.
Shaylee Beck Moore
Betsy Iler
ON THE COVER
Mark Mortensen’s lake scene took first place in art in this year’s Lake Martin Living Art & Photo Contest. The entries for the 2024 contest were exhibited during a champagne reception to benefit Dadeville Performing Arts Center. See more entries on page 26 of this issue.
Photo by Kenneth Boone
14 HAPPY TO BE HOME
A BRHS graduate returns to the area to practice medicine.
22. REELTOWN FOOTBALL SUPERFAN
Doug 'Papa' Lee exemplifies Reeltown's passion and support for the home team.
26. ANNUAL ART SHOW WINNERS
View a selection of entries, as well as the winners, in this year's Art & Photo Contest.
AROUND THE AREA
Gateway stores open
Three stores have opened in the new Gateway shopping center in Alexander City, and others, including a major grocery chain, will open within three weeks.
Rick Langhorn, Venture South Investments partner, spoke to the Alexander City Rotary Club at a Lunch and Learn last month. Venture South Investments is the developer for the Gateway at Lake Martin, located at the intersection of U.S. Route 280 and state Route 63.
New Shopping Options Available
doors to citizens Nov. 6.
Behind the Publix will be a hotel with access from state Route 63.
“That leaves us three additional outparcels,” Langhorn said. “We’re being pretty selective on those, and we’ll announce what’s coming when we get them. This project has been a long time coming.”
Five Below, Starbucks and Marshalls have already opened their doors. Rack Room Shoes is expected to open October 17. Barberito’s and Nail Boutique and Salon will open in early November. After long anticipation, Publix will open its
Public transportation coming to Dadeville
Full-time public transportation is needed in the Dadeville-Camp Hill area, and ARISE Executive Director Tammi Montgomery said they are working on having a bus and minivan on site in Dadeville soon.
Montgomery said they are in a waiting game, as the bus and the van have been purchased, but it’s taking some time for them to receive the vehicles.
The bus and van should be coming in this month, and once they have the vehicles, it’s full steam ahead, as they have a driver already in the wing. The vehicles will be stationed at the driver’s residence or Lake Martin Community Hospital with the hospital offering them a spot during the down times.
Montgomery said it will likely involve routes throughout the greater Dadeville area, Camp Hill and possibly New Site.
The organization is focusing on providing general transportation, including doctor’s trips and grocery store visits, as many of their clients are otherwise homebound due to circumstance and/or physical mobility issues.
~ Abigail Murphy
Three new retail stores will be open this month at the intersection of U.S. Route 280 and state Route 63.
The Gateway shopping center has been in the works since 2017, Langhorn said. ~ Melody Rathel
LMCH offers free mammograms
Lake Martin Community Hospital is observing Breast Cancer Awareness Month with free mammograms. The screenings, hosted by Ivy Creek Healthcare, are being held October 30 at Lake Martin Community Hospital for uninsured women age 40 and up. Early detection is a major factor in cancer prevention and the survival rate.
“Early detection saves lives,” Community Liaison for Ivy Creek at LMCH Bridget Thornton said. “This is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Let’s stand together in the fight against cancer. Spread the work and support the cause.”
For a free mammogram appointment, call 256-825-3245.
~ Abigail Murphy
Scan the QR code to visit our website.
Harvest Home
Fall décor ideas from local favorites
STORY & PHOTOS BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE
Fall has arrived in Alabama, and as the cooler nights settle in and trees begin to turn their shades of brilliant colors, Southerners know it is also time to start transforming their homes into cozy autumn retreats. Locals walking the streets of downtown will notice that autumn has made its appearance in the storefronts here in our communities, as well, and look to embrace the warmth and charm of the season’s latest d é cor and gardening trends.
Grace’s Flowers in Alexander City captures the pure essence of fall. Walking into the shop feels like stepping into a harvest haven this time of year. The storefront displays burst with vibrant
hues of orange, deep reds and golden yellows, welcoming guests with a warm and festive autumn ambiance.
“You know, fall is one of my favorite seasons because fall warms your heart up,” said Susie Kelley, who has owned Grace’s Flowers since 1984. “The changing of the trees, the leaves outside, the orange and peach and yellow colors –it’s all just really pretty.”
Traditional autumn color palettes are known for their vibrancy; however, this year, warm, earthy tones, such as burnt sienna, deep terracotta and ochre are popular choices, as well. These colors are often paired with seasonal accents like rustic wreaths, dried
florals, pumpkins and gourds. Textured, natural elements, including maple leaves, cotton, tall grasses and wood also are trending this year.
Along with these fall styles, Kelley said adding artificial leaves and florals to designs is a popular home decorating trend this season. This approach also offers a practical solution for reusing seasonal d é cor year after year.
Her staff commonly creates artificial arrangements for clients during the autumn and winter months.
“It is mainly artificial in the fall unless it’s a cut flower or centerpiece for the table for dinner,” Kelley said. “It’s like Christmas. You can put it up and bring it back out next year. It’s not fresh. The artificial is just beautiful.”
As sustainability continues to gain popularity, using artificial flowers is becoming a favored way to be both eco-friendly and budget-conscious, offering d é cor that lasts for years rather than just one season.
Grace’s Flowers offers a range of artificial d é cor for purchase, including centerpieces and vibrant floral arrangements. The store also features fall accents for sprucing up the home, like wreaths adorned with fall leaves, ribbon and small pumpkins.
When it comes to entertaining guests, including fall accents on the dining room table
leaves and textured, natural embellishments are popular this season.
is a great way to infuse seasonal warmth and style into the space, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere for autumn gatherings.
Linda Ewing, Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.’s, decorator extraordinaire, has a passion for decorating and an extensive background as a florist. She creates seasonal displays not only for the office, but also for her own home and for friends, family and small events.
Ewing’s tip for creating beautiful table displays is to keep the d é cor short in stature.
“Table displays, if you’re going to have people, need to be low,” Ewing said. “So, people can see over it. You don’t want guests to be behind a lot of foliage.”
Ewing recommended using a burlap runner as a base for table d é cor and adding short items, such as pumpkins, kale and candlesticks, for cozy fall accents.
“My favorite thing this year to use is mushrooms. It is a personal preference, and it seems to be popular at a lot of places right now,” Ewing said.
Similar to Kelley, Ewing enjoys using artificial pieces for her displays and recommends shopping locally in Alexander City for fall decorating supplies, highlighting stores like Dollar General and Longleaf Antique and Flea Mall as her go-to stores.
Autumn Accents
Left: Susie Kelley, owner of Grace's Flowers, creates stunning centerpieces and rustic wreaths for cozy fall dècor; Center: Vibrant fall color palettes are complemented by warm, natural hues and crème tones; Right: Artifical
Larger retailers in Alexander City, such as The Home Depot and Walmart, offer a wide selection of outdoor seasonal items, including vibrant mums, pumpkins, hay bales and cornstalks – perfect for creating festive autumn displays.
For year-round gardeners, dahlias, chrysanthemums and pansies are popular autumn flower choices, as they not only pop in color but also thrive in cooler temperatures. These flowers often continue to bloom through the first frost of the year.
In addition, Jeff Martin at Pop’s 49 Feed and Seed near Jackson’s Gap said fall is the ideal time to plant greens, such as lettuce, cabbage and collards.
“Around here, normally everybody starts planting about Labor Day,” Martin said. “Their summer crops are starting to taper off, so people will start getting ready for the fall.”
Martin noted that many
gardeners like to plant turnips in the fall, as the crop doesn’t become sweet until later in the cooler months, staving away deer that may be likely to eat the crop and allowing gardeners to enjoy their harvests.
“Turnips really don’t start getting sweet until after a good frost. They’ll have kind of a bitter taste before the first frost. Every frost will make them a little sweeter.”
As the leaves change and the days grow shorter, Alabama’s unique blend of local charm and seasonal beauty invites everyone to embrace the spirit of fall. Whether it’s through vibrant d é cor, cozy gatherings or planting a bountiful garden, this season serves as a reminder to savor the moments spent with nature and each other.
Happy to be Home
A BRHS graduate returns to the area to practice medicine
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY CLIFF WILLIAMS
Alexander City native Ben Chappell knew early on that science was his niche. It was on his mind even as he navigated the halls at Benjamin Russell High School, preparing to graduate in the spring of 2012. But he wanted an occupation that would have a lasting impact, something more akin to a vocation than a job. At the same time, he hoped to return home to work after completing his education.
Halfway through his undergrad work at Auburn University, Chappell combined his love of science with his sense of calling and chose medicine. From there, it didn’t take long to focus his future on rural health care. His own doctor in Alexander City helped him further define his calling.
“I shadowed several doctors in various specialties, including Dr. Sellers. He was my doctor growing up,” said Chappell, who joined Lake Martin Family Care in Dadeville this summer as a family physician. “Not just him, but some of the doctors at Russell Medical, too.
“I tore my ACL in high school, and that’s when I first remember encountering the medical field outside of routine visits. The surgeon that helped me and the nursing staff at the hospital. The compassion that they showed made me aspire to that.”
As a young medical student shadowing doctors in a wide variety of venues, it was the rural medical offices and the family doctors that resonated with Chappell.
“Family doctors see the full age distribution. They can see the whole family – grandparents on one day and the grandson for an ear infection the next. It was the idea of providing care for the whole family that drew me to family medicine specifically,” he said.
After graduating medical school at University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2021, Chappell moved to Wichita, Kansas, to complete his residency.
“I was looking for broad training in rural medicine, and the program in Wichita is known around the country for that type of training,” he said. “It wasn’t too much of a culture shock. Southeast Kansas is not unlike the South.”
As the country was in lockdown with the COVID-19 pandemic, the national trend was for residents to stay closer to home, Chappell said. He didn’t even visit the Wichita facility before moving there.
“I went in with an open mind,” he said. “I really wanted to find the program where I could receive comprehensive training that would benefit where I was ultimately going to practice, so it was a leap of faith.”
Still, this summer, Chappell and his wife, Rachel,
were thrilled to move to Auburn with their 1-year-old daughter, Libby. Rachel works at East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, so the couple found a house that gives each a 20-minute drive to work. They attend Cornerstone Church in Auburn, where they attended when they were in college.
“Rachel is a critical care pharmacist, so she needed a bigger hospital. She also is from Alexander City. We were friends in high school, but we started dating at Auburn,” Chappell said.
When their schedules align for off-time, Chappell likes to take his dogs out duck hunting and going turkey hunting in the spring. As a family, they enjoy hiking and camping.
And he’s settling in at the office.
“It’s been great. I’m seeing 15 to 20 patients a day as I’m building up my practice. I’ve enjoyed working with all the doctors at Lake Martin Family Medicine. Had my first week on call, which includes seeing patients in the hospital and helping cover the ER,” he said. “A lot of times, people view healthcare providers as if we’re telling them what to do in a way. I would like for people to understand it’s a relationship and a conversation about what the patient’s goals are and what I think might maximize their quality of life and the goals they have for themselves. My priority is on the relationship, to help them reach their goals.”
While young doctors tend to change jobs early in their careers, Chappell said he has the goal in mind of breaking that trend.
“I would like to continue to provide care for Dadeville and Tallapoosa County for many years, and we very much want to be part of the Dadeville community,” he said. “I feel like that rural physician role comes with a community involvement aspect.”
And he knew in his heart he’d been right to come home to work when he stood on the sidelines as the Dadeville High School Tigers took the field Labor Day weekend for their first game of the season.
“That was a banner day. It was everything I was hoping and dreaming my job would be like. Seeing patients in the hospital, clinic and ER and supporting the medical trainer on the sidelines at the high school football game. Really made me happy about my decisions. Happy to be back home,” he said.
Back to His Roots
Right: Dr. Ben Chappell returns home to practice rual medicine and build relationships.
FALL Wildflowers in full bloom
Driving or riding along Alabama’s country roads these days, the scenery is slowly transforming to an autumn setting. Many trees are showing hints of changing their colors from green to red, yellow and brown. Drier conditions paint the landscape background a duller hue that draws attention to the prominent seasonal colors. This is when fall wildflowers, and native plants in particular, take center stage. The bright, bold colors of yellow and the shy colors of purple no doubt are eyecatching.
GOLDENROD
Although some might call it just a pretty weed, goldenrod is a spectacular wildflower. It is a native perennial that lights up the countryside and old fields when least expected – late summer and fall. Plus, the way the color is displayed on its tall stalk. is unique. It’s attractive, and it’s wild.
The beauty of goldenrod is often ignored because of a false reputation. Many people who suffer from allergies mistake blooming goldenrod as the culprit. It has been wrongly accused as causing the pollen problems created by ragweed and various grasses. Ragweed, which blooms about the same time, can usually be found growing next to goldenrod along the road.
Most people know about goldenrod but rarely consider it worthy of planting in the home landscape. In fact, goldenrod has many attributes that make it a very good choice for gardens, especially natural ones. Since it is native, it can survive in some of the poorest soils and harshest areas. Its growth along highways is evidence enough to prove that point. Goldenrod is also very tolerant of Southern summers, whether hot and dry or wet and mild.
Goldenrod blooms in September and October regardless of its living situation. This tough old weed is low maintenanceand keeps on thriving with very little to no care. Lastly, goldenrod’s long, sturdy stems make it a top pick for fall flower arrangements. Its cut flowers last longer than a week in a vase.
SWAMP SUNFLOWER
The most stunning fall wildflower is the yellow swamp sunflower. Its greenery blends with all the other weeds and wildflowers throughout most of the year; and then, it suddenly blooms in the fall when very little else is in bloom. Its mass of yellow flowers stands against the green landscape and other shades of autumn. It even gives goldenrod a run for its money as the best looking yellow wildflower.
Growing Gold Goldenrod makes a beautiful fall photo in rural fields and along roadsides.
Swamp sunflower, also known as narrow-leaved sunflower, can be found growing throughout much of the eastern United States. It is most commonly found along roadside ditches but also thrives along fence rows, in swamps, wet pinelands and moist disturbed sites. It is a native wildflower; an upright perennial that can be between 4 to 6 feet tall. It has dark green leaves that are narrowly lanceolate with a rough, sandpapery texture. It produces 2-3-inch yellow flowers on dark yellow to brown disks in late summer to early autumn. These sunflowers prefer moist, sunny locations; however, they will live in well-drained soil if adequate water is supplied during dry spells. As perennials, they will die back to the ground after the first frost but will return in the spring. They propagate by seed and vigorous underground runners.
GARDEN TALK
Although swamp sunflowers can be found growing in the wild, they also can become a part of the home landscape. They look great when mass planted, placed along borders or cascading over walls. They can even be mixed in with other perennials. These sunflowers attract butterflies, so they would be a nice addition to any butterfly garden. Cut the plants back in June, so they will be bushier when they bloom later in September and October. Then, they take center stage and brighten everything around them.
AMERICAN BEAUTYBERRY
Although not a wildflower, American beautyberry is a fastgrowing native shrub worth raving about. For most of the year, it is just a plain green plant. But in August or September, clusters of small purple-to-blue berries or drupes encircle the woody
stems. Its unique display of berries in the fall makes this a plant worth adding to the home landscape. Beautyberry branches also are neat additions to flower arrangements.
Fall Colors
Left to Right: Swamp sunflower grows as tall as 6 feet with its showy yellow blooms; American beautyberry shows off its purplish berry clusters; Blue mistflower is a great addition to a butterfly garden.
American beautyberry is common throughout the southeastern United States. It is found in woods, particularly in moist areas under open pine canopies, thickets, right of ways and fence rows. It is adapted to moist, loam, sandy or shallow upland sites and has a wide pH range. It grows 5 to 8 feet tall and almost as wide. The more sun it receives, the more purple berries it will produce for display each fall.
BLUE MISTFLOWER
A lesser-known fall wildflower worth mentioning is the blue mistflower. Most interesting are the compact clusters of fuzzylooking, bluish-purple flowers atop this wild plant. This latesummer-to-fall blooming herbaceous perennial is part of the aster family and may be in bloom for five weeks or more from late summer until frost. It from 1 foot to 3 feet tall and may have sky-blue to violet blossoms.
Like a lot of wildflowers, blue mistflower grows along roadsides on moist ditch banks and in meadows. This plant prefers moist soils in full sun to partially shaded areas. Its blue fog-like flowers are very attractive to pollinators, especially butterflies, moths and bees. Blue mistflower can be somewhat aggressive and may spread by rhizomes and self-seeding. It makes a good companion and contrasting specimen when planted with those yellow goldenrods and sunflowers.
For help on other home and garden questions, contact your local county Extension office or reach us online at aces.edu.
~ Shane Harris is the County Extension Coordinator for Tallapoosa County.
Shane Harris
Cathead Biscuits
Tips for Better Biscuits
• For a higher-rise biscuit, ensure the biscuits are touching, so they rise up and not out.
• Brush melted butter on the tops once cooked or even before baking.
• Flour your hands well before pinching the dough to form biscuits.
• My biscuits were about 1/2-inch thick before I baked them.
• You can make smaller biscuits, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
If you grew up in the South, chances are you’ve heard of cathead biscuits. The name is quite strange, but these large, fluffy, buttermilk biscuits are full of charm and rustic character. Cathead biscuits got their name from their size and shape and are said to be as big, round, and uneven as a cat’s head. They hold traditional Southern roots and date back to a time when many households, including my husband’s, grew up eating biscuits daily, usually at every meal.
GOOD EATS
In the past, lard was the traditional fat used in these biscuits, but this recipe uses shortening, which helps the biscuits rise higher and hold their shape better. It’s also more convenient for today’s home bakers.
This recipe includes only four simple ingredients and no need for a rolling pin or a biscuit cutter: just pinch off large portions; roughly roll them into balls; slightly flatten the tops; and pop them in the oven. They are larger than regular biscuits, which makes them perfect for splitting open for sausage gravy, blackberry jam or soaked in syrup.
INGREDIENTS
4 cups self-rising flour, plus more for forming biscuits (I used White Lily) 4 tablespoons shortening, plus more for greasing the pan 2 cups whole buttermilk, cold 3-4 tablespoons butter, melted
DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Lightly grease a 12inch cast iron skillet or round cake pan with shortening. Set aside. Measure the flour and add to a large bowl. Work the shortening into the flour. Use a fork or your fingers. Add the buttermilk and stir until it makes a ball. Don’t over-mix. Use floured hands to portion the dough out into eight equal pieces (dough will be sticky, so have extra flour close by). Loosely form the pieces into round balls and place them in the prepared skillet. They should be touching. Using the back of your floured fingers, gently press down on the top of the dough to flatten slightly. Brush the top of the biscuits with melted butter. Bake for 30 minutes (see notes). This recipe makes eight large biscuits. The next time you crave comfort food, try making a pan full of cathead biscuits. I’m sure they will spark great conversation and be a hit in your home.
~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.
Gina Abernathy
As anyone who lives in rural Alabama can tell you, football is more than a sport here. There are no major professional sports teams in the state, and if there were, it wouldn’t make much of a difference. In Alabama, the professional teams are identified by either a ‘Roll Tide’ or a ‘War Eagle,’ and many of the favorite athletes can’t legally vote or rent a hotel room.
In the small, familial towns of Alabama, Friday nights are where locals watch young athletes compete for the chance to play at the highest level of football in Alabama, where a player’s last name and number become known throughout the state. Under white flood lights, fans cheer a common banner for athletes they’ve known since they wore diapers. These players do not wear the distant red or orange jerseys seen on Saturday television screens; they are the children of friends, coworkers, cousins and neighbors. Every interception, tackle and completed pass means more, because these athletes are the future of the communities where they play.
Reeltown is one of those small Alabama areas where high school football prevails. And of the hundreds of fans that show up every Friday night for football games, who travel hours to away games and withstand the rain and heat to watch, few are as dedicated to Reeltown football as Doug Lee.
Lee has not missed a Reeltown football game since 1972. He has attended 627 games in a row, as well as most Reeltown football practices, where he sits in the blistering heat of summer ball, as well as the cold rains of the fall and winter. He has seen Reeltown teams miss the playoffs, and he has seen teams win state championships. He has seen players go on to play at the collegiate level, or graduate and enter the Reeltown community as bankers, farmers and businessmen. Many of those former players eventually end up right next to Lee on the sidelines, watching games and musing with Lee about the team’s championship prospects.
“Shoot, he’s been a part of Reeltown longer than I’ve been alive,” said Head Football Coach Matt Johnson. “He’s all Reeltown, that’s for sure.”
Lee played football at Reeltown from 1960 to 1964. Plastic shoulder pads had just replaced leather pads, and helmets had a single bar and were made of plastic. Lee weighed 142 pounds his senior year and played center and linebacker for legendary Reeltown football coach Duane Webster.
After finishing military service in Vietnam in the early ’70s, Lee returned to his hometown, where he ran the chains for the football team on which he had played only a handful of years prior. He handled the stats for the football team until a couple years ago, when he decided that he had earned the right to just sit and watch.
“It’s community – community here, community
there. We all love Reeltown,” said Lee. “We love the school, love the people and love the football program, and everybody just stands behind the football program for Reeltown.”
Lee is present in the coaches’ room conversations. At practices, he brings the players snacks and drinks. The players call him ‘Papa Lee,’ and for much of his life, Lee said, he could tell you the names of every parent, teacher and student at Reeltown High School.
“Just being around the kids and the coaches,” said the 79-year-old Lee. “They keep me young at heart.”
A man with more than 45 years of involvement in one football program might know a thing or two. Although Lee has served the football program for several decades, he has never coached the high school team or assumed any roles outside of his own. He’s there because he loves Reeltown – the football program, the school and the community.
“It’s kind of like the barbershop talk, you know,” said Johnson. “You got guys working, and then you got guys that are just gonna come in there every Saturday morning and have a cup of coffee, shoot the bull and hang out. They contribute to the atmosphere and contribute to the establishment as a whole. And that’s kind of what he does. He’s there to contribute to what Reeltown is and what it needs to remain as, more than actually picking up the scissors and cutting hair.”
The Reeltown community has a unique dedication to its athletics. It’s often that, at games played hours away, Reeltown fans outnumber those of the home team. Even at community pep rallies, the stadium is packed with eager fans, hoping to see how that promising freshman linebacker has developed, or whether this year’s team could compete for the state title.
“Last month, it rained on us at the Ranburne game,” said Lee, referring to a game an hour and a half away. “We didn’t have nobody leave. It rained, and we stayed there right up until the end.”
Lee’s goal has been to maintain this level of involvement and commitment to Reeltown football. It’s a love of community that permeates throughout Reeltown athletics, which causes those who graduate from the local high school to return to the community. It would seem as though he’s done a good job so far.
“It runs deep here,” said Johnson. “It’s rare in this day and age to continue to have that pride and tradition, but we have it here. I mean, I grew up here my whole life, graduated from here and did my rounds at various places, looking for the opportunity to come back. When you’re from here, it’s just something you want to do. It’s just – it’s in you.”
Dedicated Fan
Right: Doug "Papa" Lee celebrates his 625th Reeltown football game.
Reeltown Football Superfan
STORY BY BEN SMITH
PHOTO BY LIZI GWIN
Annual Art Show Winners
STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
Nothing could dampen Dadeville’s passion for the arts, even in the face of an approaching storm and inclement weather from Hurricane Helene on September 26. As the much-anticipated Lake Martin Living magazine 2024 Art & Photo Contest approached, excitement built and the stage was set for a remarkable evening filled with creativity, community spirit and live entertainment.
Dadeville Performing Arts Center was decorated in a brilliant display, and the contest was a success by all measures, with 49 local artists submitting a variety of artwork, including paintings, original photography and sketches. A lively energy filled the reception, hosted by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., as local musician Luke Keel performed live for the audi As guests explored the gallery to cast votes for their favorite pieces.
Winning first in the art competition was Mark Mortensen with his painting, “Lake Landscape.” Art judge Dorothy Littleton was impressed by the brushwork and admired the texture the artist used while creating his piece.
“Landscape Overlook,” created by Dadeville’s Dawn Davis, was awarded second place in art. Littleton was captivated by the beauty of the painting and the intent of
the artist while looking at it.
“The balance of the color harmony, soft edges and feeling of tranquility were the key aspects that drew me in,” Littleton said.
The third place winner in the art category was Mimi Gresham Amerson’s “Cormorant on the Ball.” The piece featured a black and white cormorant painted over a map of Florida’s Estero Bay to Lemon Bay. Littleton described the piece as being one of the most creative and imaginative in the show this year, and she loved the idea of it.
In the photography category, Adrienne Gaines took first place with a chance photo of the Alabama Theater in Birmingham. While capturing the moment, Gaines described that it was an unplanned photo opportunity.
“I did not necessarily go out and seek the shot,” Gaines said. “The shot was available full to me at one point in time, and I just took it to see what would happen.”
Gaines emphasized that the architecture is her favorite aspect of the photo.
“The architecture of the building visible in that shot makes it for me. It is art. The building is art,” she said.
Second place was awarded to a striking image titled “Unexpected Beauty,” featuring a lotus flower contrasted against black lily pads, photographed by Charlie
Kuykendall. Paul Adams secured third place with his photograph, “Gulf Sundown.”
The “People’s Choice Award” was presented to Kellyton artist Kim Anderson for her painting, “A Summer Day at Lake Martin.”
Choosing the art winners of this year’s contest proved to be a challenge, Littleton said, though she was honored to be selected as a returning judge for the art portion of the show. Littleton is the owner of the Tallapoosa School of Art in Dadeville and is passionate about her role for the contest.
“People should take a lot of pride in participating,” Littleton said. “All the pieces are wonderful, and it’s a difficult job to choose.”
Winners were announced at a champagne reception and presented with ribbons and cash awards. Door prizes for attendees were donated by Paradise Bed and Breakfast, Elaby Boutique, The Funky Goat, The Grand Bakery and Self Care at the Square.
TPI hosts the annual show in September of every year, and one of the first place winners is featured on the cover of the October issue of Lake Martin Living magazine. This year’s art and photography exhibit and reception benefited Dadeville Performing Arts Center, as TPI presented DPAC with a check in the amount of $700, which also included the bartenders’ tips.
The show touched many aspects of the community, including some of its youngest citizens. An estimated 150 middle school students from Tallapoosa County schools took in the gallery of art in a Thursday morning field trip. Everything’s Art volunteers discussed art techniques and opportunities with the children.
Among the 49 local artists who submitted artwork for display this year were two children, Johnny Spears, 11, and Kirin Johnson, 12. Johnson submitted two pieces, including a sketch of a fox and a heartwarming photograph of a horse and kitten at the local barn she frequents. Spears won first place for children’s art with his painting, “Sailboat on the Water.” Littleton described his art as well-rendered and was impressed with his use of color tones.
The presenting sponsors of this year’s event included Everything’s Art and Pennington Park. Additional sponsors were Lake Martin Tallapoosa County Tourism and Alexander City’s Greg Shelton. TPI appreciates the support of local businesses, individuals and organizations, without whom the show would not have been possible, including The Funky Goat, Alexander City Schools, Kenneth Boone, Lake Martin Area United Way, Floyd’s Lawn & Garden Center, Alexander City Theatre II, Koon’s Catering, Dadeville Police Department, Kim Walls, Kurt and Leigh Pfitzner and the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce.
“It takes courage to put yourself out there,” Littleton said of the artists’ participation. “Bravo! I applaud them all.”
Art & Photo
Previous Page Top: The Art Exhibit was held at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center and featured live music, door prizes and hors d'oeuvres; Previous Page Bottom: First Place Art was a lake scene by Mark Mortensen; Current Page Top: First Place Photo was Alabama Theater by Adrienne Gaines; Second Place Art, Landscape Overlook by Dawn Davis.
Art Entries
Clockwise from Top Left: People's Choice Winner, A Summer Day at Lake Martin by Kim Anderson; Third Place Art, Cormorant on the Ball by Mimi Amerson; Second Place Photo, Unexpected Beauty by Charlie Kuykendall; Children's Winner, Sailboat on the Water by Johnny Spears; Rock Bass by Greg Shelton
Art Entries
Clockwise from Top Left: The Real Chimney Rock by Lynda Thurlow; Children's Harbor Sunrise by Chuck Porter; Dine In by April Holdridge; Third Place Photo Gulf Sundown by Paul Adams.
Art Entries
Clockwise from Top Left: Pasture Framed by Japanese Maple by Pam Patterson; Shrimp by Linda Pierce; Honorable Mention, Nova by E. Lee Mapp Jr.; Honorable Mention, Cotton by Kyle Thornton.
Art Entries Clockwise from Below: Cletus by Beverly Lightsey; A Bee's Dream by Brandi Patterson; Fox in Charles Forest by Makaila Sims; Chapel Lights by Debbie Blackmon; Honorable Mention, Beach Sunset by Austin Glass.
Art Entries Clockwise from Top Left: Good Omens by Sydne Schuler; Flair by Michele Kuykendall; Horse and Cat by Kirin Johnson; Spot by Larry Amerson; Goat on Goat Island by Cathy Delionback.
Art Entries Clockwise from Below: Peaceful Tallapoosa by Kay Fincher; Orange Beach Sunset and Heron by Shannon McDuffie; Lake Lights by Paul Adams; Silo at Dark by Kelley Lacey; Honorable Mention, The Music of the Night by Finch Allen; Kowaliga Bridge Late Afternoon by Donna H. Cantrell.
YWipe Out
tell you about another ‘Wipe Out.’ “Operation Wipe Out Cervical Cancer Alabama,” Operation Wipe Out for short, was established to tackle a serious, but solvable public health crisis in our state.
Alabama has the third highest rate of cervical cancer and deaths from cervical cancer in the nation. Worldwide, cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women. What makes this news even more tragic is that this type of cancer can be prevented.
When cervical cancer does occur, it can be cured if caught early enough, which makes regular screening vitally important.
Operation Wipe Out is a coalition that includes the Alabama Department of Public Health, the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,and O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, TogetHER for Health, the Rotary Clubs of Birmingham and Lafayette, the American Cancer Society and Russell Medical. The coalition adopted a three-pronged strategy to eliminate cervical cancer in Alabama: 1) prevent the disease by encouraging vaccination against the human papilloma virus; 2) promote access to regular screening; and 3) remove barriers that prevent women from accessing treatment when they are diagnosed with the cancer.
Chambers County was chosen as the pilot site for Operation Wipe Out’s first outreach because it has the highest incidence of cervical cancer in the state. But guess which county is second? I’ll give you a hint: It’s named after the river running through it that feeds Lake Martin. Yep. Tallapoosa County.
In Chambers County, the team collaborated with the county’s school system to make HPV vaccination available in schools with parental permission. Because HPV is sexually transmitted, the vaccine is most effective before a person is
Anatomy
Cervical cancer
dysplasia stages
sexually active; however, the vaccine still offers a level of protection even after a person has become sexually active. The Federal Drug Administration approved the vaccine for persons from 9 to 45 years of age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination at age 11 or 12.
Because HPV vaccination is preventive medicine, health insurance plans are required to cover it at 100 percent. The health department in each respective county provides HPV vaccination to persons who don’t have insurance coverage.
Megan Jones, a nurse who manages the early detection program for several counties, told me the vaccine is available through a special grant program for a wide range of ages while supplies last.
“Children 18 and younger who are uninsured, underinsured or have Medicaid qualify for the HPV vaccine. Adults ages 19 to 46 who have Medicaid or are uninsured can qualify,” she said.
Most pediatricians offer the vaccine. If your physician does not stock the vaccine, you can get a prescription from your doctor and take it to your local independent pharmacist, who can administer the vaccine in the pharmacy.
Screening for cervical cancer is a bit more challenging, especially in rural communities, simply because there are not enough gynecologists to meet the demand. Screening is also available for free or at reduced price at some federally qualified health centers, depending on whether the clinics have the necessary staff and equipment.
The Alabama Breast and Cervical Cancer Early
Detection Program, a service of the ADPH, provides financial coverage for cervical cancer screening for uninsured and underinsured women. ABCCEDP also provides a fast path to Medicaid coverage for these women through the CDC-funded Breast and Cervical Cancer Program.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women aged 21 to 65 be screened every three years. Regular screening detects pre-cancerous lesions, which can be treated to prevent cervical cancer from developing. Following the screening guidelines also identifies cancer early – when it’s curable.
MEDICAL NEWS
George Miranda
Cervical cancer caught early is usually treated with hysterectomy, a surgical procedure that removes the cervix, uterus and sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
In some cases, the physician will also recommend a course of radiation to sterilize any residual cancer cells. More advanced stages of cancer may require a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. All of this can be avoided, of course, by taking steps to prevent cervical cancer, including HPV vaccination and regular screening.
HPV vaccination is recommended for both girls and boys, because HPV causes more than just cervical cancer. Some cancers of the mouth and other genital cancers (anal, penile, vulvar and vaginal cancers) are HPV-induced. And it takes only one infected partner to expose a person to HPV. A person can be infected with HPV and not even know it. Conceivably, a person can be celibate until marriage and then be infected by his or her spouse. You see, just because a person is infected with the virus does not mean that he or she is sexually promiscuous.
Some parents are understandably concerned that having their kids vaccinated sends the wrong message; specifically, that they are somehow condoning premarital sex. The best way to handle this is to have an honest conversation with your child. Help them to understand that you are simply protecting them from the very real risk of developing cancer.
It’s also important to remember that HPV vaccination does not offer protection from the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and it is in no way a form of birth control.
To learn more about Operation Wipe Out, visit the program’s website, operationwipeout.org.
~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center.
Rosanne Cash
Friday, November 8
7 p.m.
concert series
Ain’t Too Proud — The Life and Times of the Temptations Tuesday, December 3
Wednesday, December 4
7 p.m.
broadway series
Holiday Concert VOCES8
Tuesday, December 10
7 p.m.
concert series
Holiday Concert
A Winter Gathering with Kathy Mattea Good News and Other Favorites Thursday, December 12
7 p.m.
celebrity series
It's always a good time to invest
The last article I wrote was about presidential elections and market returns. In summary, market timing around who is president is tough. History has shown markets have done well under both parties. This month’s article will be based on the data reflected in two charts pertaining to market history and global events. These charts go back 25 years to September 1989. A lot happened during this short period.
One thing I hear all the time is that there is too much going on around the world, and some believe it is a bad time to invest. History would say there is always turmoil and uncertainty and never a great time to invest; the reason it’s called investing is because there is no guarantee. History has proven that buying and holding works quite well through difficult events and periods of time.
From late 1989 through the second quarter of 2024, there are 20 events on Chart 1, with many more not shown. There were also four recessions, as shown by the gray shaded bars. It’s interesting that these events were all different and happened under multiple presidents, with each event accompanied by its own set of worries. The S&P 500, as shown by the purple line in Chart 1, gradually climbed higher, with an annualized return of 10.48 percent, which included the 2000, 2008 and, most
Charts courtesy of YCharts.
recently, the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s reasonable to expect that the future will be no different regarding world events and uncertainty. Luckily, businesses throughout time have shown resilient ability to invest/ grow through all kinds of periods. Ultimately, this is what matters. Stock growth over time is tied to earnings growth. Don’t forget this point.
MONEY
MATTERS
Talking about events and history would be no fun without putting some numbers behind them. Chart 2 shows the growth of a $100,000 investment in the S&P 500 over a 25-year period ending in the second quarter of 2024. That $100,000 would have turned into $3 million.
Let this sink in.
If an investor had taken the approach of waiting until the ‘all clear,’ they would still be waiting. In investing, the coast is never clear. There are always risks, variables that can’t be quite handicapped and a high degree of uncertainty. This is why, over time –historically speaking – investors have been well rewarded
Lee Williams
by buying and holding equities.
What will the future look like? Probably similar to the past, regarding unknowns. When is the best time to invest? When will the coast be clear? All of these are great questions.
I’m constantly reminded of two quotes. One is from Shelby Davis, a famous investor, who was once asked to identify the best time to invest; his answer was, “Whenever you have the money.” Another famous line is from Warren Buffett who said, “The longer you hold stocks, the less risky they become.”
This article is not intended to tell people when to buy or sell but to educate through facts and history that could help investors become more informed. Morgan Housel wrote one of my favorite books on money, Psychology of Money. In this book, he summed it up best by noting the one thing that hasn’t changed throughout time: human behavior. If there is one thing I’m certain about in the future, it is that this will remain the same even hundreds of years from today.
~ Lee Williams
Important Information
Blalock Williams, LLC (Blalock Williams) is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Blalock Williams and its representatives are properly licensed or
exempt from licensure.
The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investor’s particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your attorney or tax advisor.
The views expressed in this commentary are subject to change based on market and other conditions. These documents may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur.
All information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. There is no representation or warranty as to the current accuracy, reliability, or completeness of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information, and it should not be relied on as such.
1. Angela and Jon Sipos and Kimberly Johnson
2. Giovani Scuderi and Caroleena Spanier
3. Kathy and Chad Brooks
4. Audrey Stockdale and Rachel Martin
5. Peyton Webb, Austin Tapley and Zachary Webb
6. B.J. and Callie Williford
Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Wicker Point Golf Club
1. Benjamin, Bill and Dedie Hendrix
2. Daniel Brown, Mack Jackson and Travis McCants
3. Randy Adair and Alan Cutts
4. Amie Gray, Mark Spencer and Kevin Speaks
5. Rhonda Hodgeson, Kristina King and Linda Burns
6. Michael and Brian Rhodes, Jon Seale and Chris Stewart
7. Steve Lyles and Bart Middlebrooks
The Destination Glamping Resort
1. Cat Makos, Roxanne Jobe and Rhonda Courtney
2. Laurie and Dillon Dixon and Jim and Rhonda Poage
3. Nicole and Luke Walker
4. Nick and Caylee Fucci and Kevin Barber
5. Patricia Hemsworth and Breanna Weaver
6. Jeff and Diana Roman, Nancy Woodward and Matison
Cargile
Thursday, September 19, 2024
Wellborn Musclecar Museum
1. Dedie Hendrix, Laurie Sturdivant and Leanne Calhoun
2. JoAnna Banks and Phil Spraggins
3. John and Mary Jo Johnson
4. Chris and Kylie Brown
5. Emily Mask and Rachel Elliot
6. Susan McCrispin, Mary Perry and Woody Baird
1. Jason Rogoff
2. Tony and Tammie White and Lauren and Jordan O’Brian
3. Reba McFee
4. Lydia Weber and Delain Smith
5. Linnie and Kirk Dortch, Donna Landry, Steve Burak, Ed
Oliver, John and Ginger Bargaineer and Camille Foshee
6. Emily Scott, Jay Glass, Shay Rogers-Brown, Nolen Brown and Abby Brown-Glass.
7. Jim Patton, Susan Bess, Julie Sims, Margie Carmack, Kelly
Wesley, Rita Patton and Don and Nancy Stroup
8. Cali Esteban, Rachel Henson, Theodore Esteban and Brenda Henson
9. Denise, Blake and Gloria Graham
Thursday, September 26, 2024
Dadeville Performing Arts Center
1. Johnny Spears
2. Larry and Mimi Amerson
3. Kirin Johnson
4. Kyle and Brian Thornton
5. Kathy and Dave Loftus
6. Christy and Reid McKelvey
7. Delaine Hanson
8. Dottie and Keith Smith
9. Linda Ewing and Baily Terry
Calendar
FEATURED EVENT
Pottery sale set for next month
St. James Episcopal Church at 347 S. Central Avenue in Alexander City will host its annual holiday bazaar Saturday, Nov. 16, from 9 a.m. to noon, featuring crosses, platters, bowls and new pottery items by the St. James Pottery Guild, as well as a variety of homemade cakes, casseroles and soups; handcrafted items, woodworks and more.
“We’ve been working hard all year to come up with new designs and glazes to create some beautiful pieces this year. Every member of our pottery guild has their own specialty, and what they do is just amazing,” said Sue Pritchard, who brought the ministry to the church more than 10 years ago.
Pottery and More Clockwise from Below Right: Hundreds of crosses in a myriad of designs and colors are available; Painted pottery by local artist Ruth Nabors sells quickly; Birdhouses and other woodworks also are available for sale.
The annual bazaar raises $16,000 or more each year, and all proceeds from the event benefit local community outreach programs.
Oct. 17
Music of Mancini
Alex City Arts will open the 56th performance season at 7:30 p.m. at Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium with a celebration of the compositions of Henry Mancini. A well known Hollywood composer in the Big Band era, Mancini’s early works with the Glenn Miller Orchestra include Breakfast at Tiffany’s, The Pink Panther and many more. Advance tickets are $20 at alexcityarts.org and $25 at the door.
Oct. 18
Town Creek Ramblers
Bluegrass Band Show
Outstanding Bluegrass musicians will perform toe-tapping, soultouching Bluegrass and New Grass at 7 p.m. Advance tickets are $10 at dadevilleperformingartscenter. com. Tickets will be $15 at the door. Children attend free.
Oct. 19
Wetumpka
Wildlife Arts Festival
This one-day festival celebrates wildlife art and the natural beauty of Alabama with educational presentations, art exhibits and classes, vendors, food, children’s activities and expert demonstrations in historic downtown Wetumpka. For details, visit thekelly.org/wewa.
Oct. 19
Burger Battles
Cash prizes and bragging rights are up for grabs at the inaugural Burger Battles to benefit the 2025 Lake Martin Area United Way campaign. Teams will compete from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in one of two categories: restaurant (professional) and tailgate. Enter the competition for $25 per team or come to vote for your favorite burger for $20 per person (children under 10 admitted free). Contact Courtney Layfield at 256-329-3600 for more information.
Oct. 21
Ferst Readers Golf Tournament
Ferst Readers of Tallapoosa County will hold their 4th Annual Golf Scramble Tournament at Stillwaters
LAKE REGION EVENTS
Golf Club on Oct. 21. Teams of four will compete to benefit a local literacy program that puts books in the hands of children. Entry is $125 for individuals. Sponsorships with golf hole signs are $200. Company sponsorships are $600 and include entry for four-player teams, as well as golf hole signs. The fun starts at 8 a.m. and includes a boxed lunch and awards. To register, visit the Ferst Reader of Tallapoosa County Facebook page or the website at FerstReadersTC.org.
Oct. 24
Aero Warrior Reunion
Wellborn Musclecar Museum will host the 2024 Aero Warrior Reunion. This 55th annual reunion will begin Wednesday morning at the Atlanta Motor Speedway at 7 a.m. for the Speedway Cruise. After a fun day at the track, car owners and drivers will be in Alexander City for a meet-andgreet and car show at the Wellborn Musclecar Museum in Alexander City. The car show will be open to the public. Stroll the quaint downtown shops. Make a donation for a museum pass and grilled lunch. Drivers will spend the night in Alexander City and convoy to Talladega early Friday morning.
Oct. 26
Russell Crossroads
Fall Family Festival
Russell Lands will host the annual Fall Family Festival at Russell Crossroads from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with horseback rides, games, a baking and canning contest, pumpkin patch and more. For more information, visit RussellLands.com/blog/events.
Oct. 26
Main Street
Downtown Trick or Treat & Fall Festival
Main Street Alexander City will host the annual fall festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with trick or treating for the kids from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in downtown Alexander City.
Oct. 26
AACA October Meeting
The Artists Association of Central Alabama will gather for its monthly
meeting from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Senior Center of the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City. Artist Diane Hough will introduce members to “Zentangle,” a form of meditative art that consists of small, spontaneous images. Diane will lead the group through the simple, zenlike process of developing unplanned, intricate Zentangle tiles that can be combined to form larger images. AACA is for everyone who loves art, no matter the medium or craft. Membership is only $20 for one year. AACA activities include workshops, demonstration, an annual month-long museum display and field trips. For more details, contact Joe Fehrmann at 205-746-0322 or aacapres@gmail.com.
Oct. 30
Halloween at Dadeville Public Library
The library will host games and treats from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Nov. 6-8
Capture the Light
Join a three-day Tallapoosa School of Arts workshop with artist Manon Sander to explore capturing the light in still lifes, replacing random decision-making with intentional choice and diving into color mixing and use. For details, visit tallapoosaworkshops.com.
Nov. 9
Tom’s Foolery Improv Comedy
Dadeville Performing Arts Center will host an evening of laughter, spontaneity and a dash of the unexpected. Advance tickets are $10 at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com; $15 at the door. Children attend free.
Nov. 9
Lake Martin
Cyclo-Circumnavigation
This year’s bike ride around Lake Martin is set to leave Wind Creek State Park at 8 a.m. An informal ride with minimal support, organizers will host an aid station with snacks, drinks, water bottle refills and bathroom break at the 25-mile mark at Church of Christ on Hebron Road. There will be a pizza break at Lake Martin Pizza at mile 47. View
LAKE REGION EVENTS
the turn-by-turn 66-mile route at ridewithgps.com/routes/44524658. For more information or to sign up, email lakecycling66@gmail.com.
Nov. 12
Duo BalDo
Join Duo BalDo for a program of classical piano and violin with a comic twist at 7 p.m. at Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium. Tickets are $20 in advance at alexcityarts.org and $25 at the door.
Nov. 14
Going the Extra Mile
Storyteller Dolores Hydock will present a monologue about the extraordinary journeys of Elizabeth Bisland and Nellie Bly at Red Ridge United Methodist Church from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. This free program is made possible by the Alabama Humanities Alliance.
Nov. 14
Coffee & Connections
Alexander City Chamber of Commerce will host this opportunity to meet like-minded professionals and build meaningful relationships from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Don’t miss this opportunity to network.
Nov. 17
Dadeville Business Christmas Open House
Local businesses will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. to showcase new products and services to start the Christmas shopping season. There will be refreshments, lively decorations and overflowing Christmas spirit in downtown Dadeville and beyond.
Nov. 17
Holiday Open House
Continue your holiday shopping when local merchants show off their Christmas displays during the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Holiday Open House from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. This event kicks off the ‘Tis the Season to Shop Local campaign. Pick up a card at any participating businesses and earn a stamp for every $10 you spend. When you’ve spent $50 and filled up your card, turn it in for a chance to
win one of three $250 gift cards from your choice of participating local retailers. Pick up another card when you turn one in. There’s no limit to the number of times you can enter. For a list of participating merchants, visit alexcitychamber.com/tis-the-season.
Nov. 18
Roaring Twenties Revue Celebrating 100 Years
Celebrate the G.A. Veazey 1924 cornerstone at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center at 128 N. Broadnax Street at 7 p.m. A number of local acts will share musical styles from the Red Hot early 20th century, and Dadeville’s rich history will be reviewed and celebrated. Mark your calendar for this once-in-acentury event. Look for details at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.
Season-long Events
LMYP Game Night
Every third Thursday of the month, grab your crew and meet at The Local at 41 Main in downtown Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for games, laughs and 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 for more information.
Pastry & Paint
Join local painter Kay Fincher for a painting event from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at The Grand Bakery on N. Broadnax Street in Dadeville. All materials will be provided to complete a canvas picture. No previous painting experience in necessary; reservations are required. The class is $30 for each person and is limited to 10 participants. To reserve a spot, call Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506.
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.
Lake Martin Civitan Club
The Lake Martin Civitan Club meets at noon in the private room at JR’s Sports Bar and Grill, 145 Alabama Street, Alexander City, on the second Thursday of each month. For more information, call Audrey Moore at 256-786-0465.
Everything’s Art! Classes
From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on alternate Tuesdays, children in grades three through five will learn the elements of art as they complete projects in class with Everything’s Art teachers. Enroll and complete permission forms at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com/ classes. No fees for Tallapoosa County children. Email Delaine Hanson at delaine.hanson@gmail.com for details.
Dulcimer Club
All levels of mountain dulcimer and blending traditional instruments are invited to gather at Dadeville Performing Arts Center from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursdays to rehearse for performances at a variety of community events. The group plays old-time, gospel and traditional music. Email kim.walls@ dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.
Dadeville Community Chorus
Rehearsals will be held at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays at Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Adult music fee is $25. Scholarships are available as needed. To join, email office@ dadevilleperformingartscenters.com, so music can be ordered.
Grief Support
Red Ridge United Methodist Church hosts an on-going grief support program at 10 a.m. lead by Pastor Dorothy Scott and Kay Fincher. There is no charge for participation, and it does not matter if the loss was recent or long ago. Call Fincher at 256-825-2506 for more information.
Clean Community Partnership Cleanups
Pick up trash in Alexander City to win money for your favorite charity. On the second Saturday of the month, volunteers meet at Strand Park at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments to help clean up the roads within Alexander City. Turn in your collected trash and get points for each person on your cleanup team and each bag of trash you collect. The team with the most points gets a $500 check made out to the nonprofit charity of their choice. Second and third place receive $200 for charity. For more information, contact Michelle West at 256-786-0584 or John Thompson at 334-399-3289.
In Dadeville, trash cleanup is held on the second Saturday of the month, and volunteers can pick up sanitized pickers and bags at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall. There also will be a trash bag drop-off on site. Contact Mickey Forbus at 334-329-0905.
Lake Martin Creativity
This group meets every Monday at 1 p.m. in the downstairs community room at the StillWaters Residential Building. Anyone interested in arts and crafts is encouraged to join. Bring something to work on or come see what others are doing. A monthly fee of $5 is charged to help pay for the use of the space. For more information, contact Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506.
Millerville Trade Day
Bibb Graves School on state Route 9 hosts this trade day on the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m with free outside setup for vendors, yard sale, flea market and swap meet items (no food vendors). Donations from sales to BGHS Alumni and Friends Association would be appreciated. There will be a designated area to bring vehicles for sale with $20 donation to BGHSAFA upon sale. For information, contact
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. Visit RussellLands.com/blog/events for the schedule.
Equality VFD Cookout and Bake Sale
On the first Saturday of each month, except January and February, the Equality Volunteer Fire Department hosts a bake sale, starting at 8 a.m. and lunch is served starting at 10:30 a.m. at the old Masonic Lodge in downtown Equality. Email Richard Penton at drichardpenton@gmail.com for more information.
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 Vet Care 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
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
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ALEXANDER CITY
Robinson Iron
A & M Plumbing
Carlos
The Body Shop
Walgreens
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.
Jake's
Moore Wealth Management
Carlisle's
Emporium Wine
Cloud Nine
Downtown Girl
Shay Aesthetics
JR'S
Hillabee Towers
Senior Nutrition Center
Noel Boone
George Hardy
First Realty
Dark Insurance
Warren Appliance Parts
MainStreet Family Care
Grace's Flowers
Koon's Korner
Larry's General Merchandise
Daylight Donuts
Alfa
Valley Bank - 280
Pricare
Temple Medical
AllState
BB&T Bank
Hometown Pharmacy
Lake Martin Home Health
Allen's Food Mart (Exxon)
Karen Channell - State Farm
Insurance
North Lake Condo
River Bend Store
River North Marina
Lake Martin Building Supply
Petro
Sho'Nuff BBQ
Hair Design
Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture
Longleaf Antique Mall
Playhouse Cinemas
Chamber of Commerce
Winn Dixie
Re/Max Around the Lake
City Hall
A&E Metal
Regions Bank
Marathon - 280
Renfroe's Market
Russell Medical Center
Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors
Koon's II
Tallapoosa Ford
Dylan Johnson - Country Financial
Holley's Home Furniture
Jackson's Drugs
Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark
The Sure Shot
Shell - 280
Big B Bar-B-Que
Russell Do It Center
Russell Home Decor
Holman Floor
Satterfield Inc.
Grain & Leaf, Bottles & Cigars
Tippy Canoe
Love Lake Martin Real Estate Office
Wind Creek Gate
Wind Creek Store
Willow Point Office
Willow Point Country Club
Smith Marina Nails
Kowaliga Marina
Children's Harbor
Catherine's Market
Russell Lands Corporate Office
Russell Lands Real Estate
Sales Center
SpringHouse
Ridge Club
Ridge Marina
HACKNEYVILLE
Hackneyville Water Authority
NEW SITE
Piggly Wiggly - New Site Foodland
DADEVILLE
Chamber of Commerce
Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery
Root 49 Salon
Ellaby Boutique, LLC
Alabama Power
Siggers
Siggers Barbershop
Fusion Cafe
Dadeville Library
At the Beauty Shop
Dadeville Courthouse
Payne's Furniture
PNC Bank
Valley Bank
McKelvey Chevrolet
Renfroe's Market
Foshee's Boat Doc
Lakeshore Pharmacy
Russell Building Supply
Lakay's
Tallapoosa Nutrition
Sweet Pickins
Century 21 - Rhonda Gaskins
Farmers & Merchants Bank
Jim's Pharmacy
Poplar Dawgs
Still Waters Country Club
Still Waters Home Association
Russell Lands Realty
Fuller Realty
Harbor Pointe
Oskar's
Aronov Realty Lake Martin
Creekside Lodge
Blue Creek Marina
Lakeside Marina
Niffers
Hwy 50 Eagle
Millstone Japanese Maple Nursery
Lakeside Mercantile
Walnut Hill
Chuck's Marina
Deep Water Docks
Lake Martin Pizza
CAMP HILL
Link Gas Station
EQUALITY
Five Star Plantation
Equality Food Mart
Southern Star
Parker Creek Marina
Charles Borden
ECLECTIC
Lake Breeze Realty
Offshore Marina
Lake Martin Mini Mall
Corner Stone Coffee Co.
Lake Martin Dock Company
Cotton's Alabama Barbecue
Russell Do It Center
Johnson Furniture
WOW Catering LLC
Eclectic Library
Real Island Marina
Anchor Bay Marina
Wetumpka
Wetumpka Herald Office
Tallassee Marathon
Tallassee Eagle
Tallassee Chamber
Parris Mullins Jr. O.D.
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elMORe cOunTy living
Iwent to Washington D.C. in early October to attend a horse show in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. It was a cloudy day, and as I drove over the Potomac, I could see the U.S. Capitol dome against the gray sky. I have spent plenty of time in that area over the years, and it never fails to move me. We are so blessed to live in a free country and so blessed with our right to vote. It does not matter who you vote for, just exercise your right to do so. That’s all I will say about the election.
Culture Shock D.C. Trivia
Our U.S. Capitol is neither a state nor a city but a remarkable honey hole of history. Instead of diving into present day American politics, let’s revisit some fun facts you may know or have forgotten about Washington D.C. and some of our past presidents and first ladies:
• Washington D.C. is both a city and the federal district of the U.S., occupying the same area.
• George Washington never lived in the White House. He died the year before it was completed, so our second president, John Adams, had the honor of being the first inhabitant.
• The White House could have been called “The Gray House.” Originally, it was built with gray Virginia sandstone, but as a result of the fire caused by the British in the 19th century, the exterior of the White House had to be painted to cover the fire traces. At that time, white was the color chosen for the facade, and the rest is history.
• The White House has 35 bathrooms.
• The original phone number for the White House was the number 1. A phone was not installed on the president’s desk until 1929.
• The Washington Monument opened in 1884 and was the tallest structure in the world until the Eiffel Tower was built in 1889.
• The Statue of Freedom is the bronze statue on top of the Capitol dome. It is more than 19 feet tall and weighs 15,000 pounds.
• The cherry blossoms that line the Tidal Basin were a gift
from Tokyo’s mayor in 1912.
• The Washington National Cathedral has a gargoyle on it that is Darth Vader.
• The Library of Congress is the largest in the world and has 160 million artifacts in its collection and more than 35 million books in the reading room.
• All roads in D.C. lead to the Capitol.
• The Lincoln Memorial has been the site of several famous speeches, including Martin Luther King’s I Have a Dream speech in 1963.
• Lincoln was our tallest president at 6 feet and 4 inches.
• Underground tunnels beneath the Capitol that are not open to the public are for senators and members of the House of Representatives.
• Dolley Madison first served as unofficial first lady to President Thomas Jefferson, a widower, while her husband, James Madison, served in Jefferson’s cabinet before becoming president himself.
• Frances Cleveland holds two records: She was the youngest first lady and the only one to get married inside the White House. She married 49-year-old President Grover Cleveland in the White House’s Blue Room at age 21.
• Dr. Jill Biden (since 2021) is the first spouse since Barbara Bush to hold the positions of both second lady and first lady, given that President Joe Biden served as vice president under President Barack Obama. She is also the first spouse since Pat Nixon to hold these roles nonconsecutively.
• Martin Van Buren, the eighth president, is sometimes credited with creating the expression “OK.” Van Buren was from Kinderhook, New York, and during his campaign, Old Kinderhook (O.K.) clubs formed to support the president. Later “OK” came to mean “all right.”
• The only president who studied to become a medical doctor was William Henry Harrison, the ninth president.
• The White House’s first website went online in October 1994 during President Bill Clinton’s administration.
~ 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.
Lacey Howell
