From the Editor’s Desk Lake Martin Living
This month’s issue of Lake Martin Living magazine is about people getting together to share great times. For the next couple of months, we’ll gather with friends, loved ones and others in our community to celebrate seasonal traditions and activities that remind us of what matters –our faith, our families and friends having fun. These are some of our favorite kinds of stories to write for the magazines.
Start with Shaylee Beck Moore’s article about the Potter’s Guild at St. James Episcopal Church in Alexander City. While discussing the holiday work calendar with Shaylee in late October, I mentioned that the annual St. James Bazaar will be held November 16, just before Thanksgiving. Shaylee said she’d heard about the bazaar before but had never been. We promptly loaded into my car and drove the half block from TPI to the church for a sneak peek at the beautiful pottery that will be offered at this year’s one-day sale to fund community outreach programs.
A few days later, Shaylee met up with the Rev. Rob Iler and potter Sue Pritchard to learn the origins of the St. James Potter’s Guild, a ministry inspired to create beautiful works of art for the glory of God and the benefit of many. After writing the story on page 26, Shaylee plans to be one of the first in line when the doors open at 9 a.m. on the 16th.
About two months ago, I got the heads up that the Dadeville Historic District Committee was hatching a big plan. On December 8, they will throw open the doors to nine historic places near the courthouse square – homes with stirring stories and businesses that have thrived for a hundred years or more. The self-guided Historic District Christmas Tour, set against the background of Dadeville’s breathtaking wonderland of holiday decorations around the square, will celebrate the rich history and beauty of our county seat.
Turn to page 22 for a list of the homes on the tour, tidbits about each and the after-tour party at Zazu’s Verandah.
Then, it’s time for the deep drive into the area’s holiday celebrations on page 14. From carriage rides at Russell Crossroads to the tree display at Pennington Park, parades, visits with Santa and holiday festivals, there are so many ways to share the joy of the season. Among them is the annual Christmas play by Alexander City Theatre II. This year’s production, staged free of charge at Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium, is a hilarious succession of mishaps and misgivings. There are holiday concerts at Dadeville Performing Arts Center, Central Alabama Community College and Dadeville’s Red Ridge United Methodist Church, as well.
Mark your calendars now and gather friends and family close, so no one misses the fun.
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
Lacey Howell
Shane Harris
George Miranda
Terry Mitchell
Gina Abernathy
Audra Spears
Cliff Williams
Abigail Murphy
Melody Rathel
Lizi Arbogast Gwin
Sam Higgs
Austin Elliott
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.
Once a year, brilliant displays of unique, handcrafted pottery are showcased at the St. James Bazaar, crafted by a group of dedicated women who call themselves the St. James Potter’s Guild. For more than a decade, these highly sought after pieces have sparked joy in the community in more ways than one.
Photo by Audra Spears
FEATURES
14. FUN FOR ALL
Take a sneak peek into local seasonal celebrations for hometown holiday fun.
22. DADEVILLE OPENS HISTORIC HOMES
A historian's dream comes to life with the first self-guided Christmas tour of the new Dadeville Historic District.
26 ST. JAMES' POTTER'S GUILD
Discover the heart behind Alexander City's most coveted pottery at the St. James Bazaar.
IN EVERY ISSUE
AROUND THE AREA
St. James Episcopal Church is home to the highly anticipated holiday bazaar that features one-of-a-kind pottery to benefit the local community.
by Audra Spears.
Photo
HSB colors cancer awareness
Students dressed in bright colors as Horseshoe Bend School hosted its 13th annual Pink and Teal Fashion Show on October 11 to raise awareness of various cancers.
The Pink and Teal Fashion Show is organized by the school’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America chapter. The pink for the fashion show is to represent breast cancer. The teal is for cervical and ovarian cancer, and this year, in honor of student Hayes Hunter, who has leukemia, the show added orange.
The school packed out its auditorium with more than 40 students participating as models for the show.
Fashion
Show
Highlights Cancer by Color
Students dressed in an array of colors to bring attention to a different types of cancer.
The proceeds from the show go toward Tallapoosa’s Caring
State recognizes Ag Expo careers
Shane Harris brings home the Eye of the Tiger award presented October 6 at the statewide County Extension meeting, recognizing the office’s innovational thinking.
Harris said while the award was presented to him, it was an award for the whole staff in reality.
“One thing with extension, we like being innovative,” Harris said. “We like trying new things. We like trying to offer new classes, new programs, new events for the general public. We like to try to do new things that spark interest. It’s always fun and challenging for us to try new things. That makes the job exciting.”
The Ag Expo showed innovation and creativity from last year’s programs and saw such success that the office did it again this year. The expo overall is about exposing students to all the different industries they can pursue.
“They don’t know what they want to do until they really talk to these companies or have a chance to express interest in one area or the other,” Harris said. “Both years the conversations that they had one-on-one (with companies) were very impactful. We’re already hearing testimonies of stories of how it really sparked some interest and opened up some doors.”
~Abigail Murphy
Refuge, a local organization aiding individuals on their cancer journeys from financial to emotional needs.
Most of the planning was focused on figuring out the theme, picking out music, getting decorations and advertising the event. This year’s theme was “Sweeten the fight with FCCLA” with Candyland inspired decorations.
“This is our favorite project,” Tucker said. “We look forward to it every year, and it’s for a good cause.”
FCCLA adviser Felicia Williams said the fashion show did stop for a little bit because of the pandemic, but last year, the school was begging them to bring it back, and each year, it has brought a full house.
~ Abigail Murphy
Patient First comes to county
Through a state grant, the Patient First program comes to Tallapoosa County and aims to provide preventative care with early access to lifesaving treatment and reduce the burden of emergency care. The program does this by having an outfitted truck stationed near the intersection of county Road 34 and state Route 49 with a paramedic who responds to medical calls.
The Tallapoosa County’s program is the initial phase, testing if having a paramedic in a centralized location could reduce the impact of care shortages for rural populations.
~Abigail Murphy
@lake_martin_living_magazine
THE BOOK NOOK
Tucked away in the heart of downtown Tallassee is a quaint shop that has become the talk of the town. The Book Nook, Tallassee’s first mainstream bookstore, opened its doors in August 2024 and quickly captured the hearts and imagination of the community.
Owned and operated by the same family trio behind the beloved ice cream shop, The Scoop, located just across the street, The Book Nook has revitalized the community with a much-needed space for book lovers of all interests.
Sisters and co-owners Samantha Segrest and Whitney Newman, both lifelong readers, eagerly jumped at the opportunity to fulfill their dream of owning a bookstore when a commercial space opened up in downtown Tallassee.
With the help of Newman’s husband, Johnny, the trio revitalized the space into a book reader’s haven.
“When we came in here and started, it was just an empty shell,” said Segrest. “Johnny was the one who fixed everything. We had 30-year-old track lighting in here, and it was awful. But fortunately, we found a way to create the shelves, and Johnny was able to save the ceiling with these beautiful lights that we
have now.”
The trio worked around the clock to prepare the space for opening day, and their hard work paid off. With brand-new lighting, cozy furniture and custom-built shelving mounted to the brilliant blue walls, The Book Nook now dazzles visitors with a diverse array of genres, including thrillers, mysteries, science fiction, autobiographies and a Christian section, among many others.
True to the charm of a small bookstore, nestled among the collection of literature is a cozy reading nook that invites visitors of all ages to pick a book from the shelf and enjoy a good read.
After being open for just a few weeks, The Book Nook hosted its first romance novel-focused event – “Spicy Nite,” a sizzling evening of romance and indulgence.
“The thing we very quickly noticed is that if we wanted to pull in business, we had to give people a reason to come out,” Segrest said. “So three weeks after we opened, we did what we call Spicy Nite. We had Blue Ribbon Dairy come out and sell boozy ice cream. We had a photo booth. We had a pure romance vendor, and it was all about spicy romance.”
STORY & PHOTOS BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE
The turnout of attendees was beyond the sisters’ imaginations, as a line formed out the door for their first Spicy Nite event.
“We were so full, you couldn’t fit anybody else in here,” Newman said.
The romance novel night drew in a crowd from all across town, including a surprise guest and locally famed romance author by the pen name of Harper Ashley, who personally autographed her novel for Spicy Nite attendees. Spicy Nite is now an ongoing event at The Book Nook. In addition to this event, the sisters are planning midnight launches for best-selling novels, such as the upcoming release of Rebecca Yarros’ newest series book, “Fourth Wing”, in January.
The sisters update the bookstore scenery and selection of literature, adapting to the ever-changing trends to keep up with the bestselling authors and interests of the community.
Among the classic popular authors, such as Nicholas Sparks and Nora Roberts, bookstore goers also will find local literature displayed amongst the tabletop selections, including Larry Williamson’s series of books about the first and second Creek
Bookstore & More Clockwise from Left: The newly renovated space creates a welcoming atmosphere for book clubs and themed literature parties; The family trio hope to inspire others with the start of their second business; The Book Nook brings a new social setting to downtown Tallassee.
Indian Wars and Linda Lou Long’s ever-popular book, The Tuskegee Strangler
The key for The Book Nook is to keep a variety of literature for customers at reasonable prices.
“Even though we’re a smaller store, we still get the same pricing discounts that bigger stores get. And it’s nice to be able to get all the new cutting-edge books,” said Segrest.
The sisters host two book clubs a month at The Book Nook, alternating authors and genres based on feedback from their book club members and trending topics. In addition to creating a space to discuss books, the group is open to discussing current life events and experiences with their book club members.
“We generally have a list of questions that make you think about the book. And then sometimes we talk about just life,” said Segrest. “It’s great to connect with people. If a book club conversation goes awry, and we have 45 minutes of really good conversation, then that’s awesome too.”
The heart of the bookstore was in creating an inviting space where the Tallassee community could connect.
“The goal was to make this a place where you would want to
sit down and talk,” said Segrest. “People are craving human connection. We’re not trying to sell them anything. It’s a place you can just come to sit, connect and read a book.”
In addition, The Book Nook engages in community events, including candle-making classes, door mat painting sessions and charitable drives, such as book collections for children for the holidays.
“It’s just something we’re doing because we want to be a part of helping other people,” said Segrest. “It’s a really small, close-knit kind of community that’s kind of blossoming down here.”
After the successful launch of their second business, The Book Nook owners have advice for fellow entrepreneurs in the area.
“I think that for me, probably the one message I hope people get from us is, if you have an idea for a business, just do it,” said Johnny. “I think people are so intimidated by starting a business. Get together with your family or a group of friends and just do it. And talk to someone in the industry. We have small businesses everywhere, just make sure it makes sense and get it off the ground.”
At its heart, The Book Nook is a place to relax, connect with the community and lose yourself in a good book.
“It comes down to when you have a well-read community, you have a very open-minded, smart and intelligent community,” Segrest said. “And we are that community. It is here.”
Fun for All
Seasonal Events You Don't Want to Miss
STORY & PHOTO BY BETSY ILER
Ahost of seasonal celebrations are planned throughout the area to brighten hearts and minds over the holidays. Check out this listing and mark your calendars now, so you won’t miss a minute of the fun.
The always-highly-anticipated St. James Episcopal Church Holiday Bazaar will open at 9 a.m. November 16 with new breathtaking designs and glazes from the St. James Potter's Guild. Cakes, casseroles and other treats from the kitchen also will be offered, as well handcrafted jewelry, fabric art and toys, paintings, woodworks and more. See the article on page 26 and arrive early, as the kitchen usually sells out before the show closes at noon.
Alexander City’s Chamber of Commerce will host the annual Holiday Open House November 17 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., kicking off the annual ‘Tis the Season to Shop Local’ campaign. Participating retailers will decorate shops and offer exclusive savings on gift items, clothing, holiday décor and more. In addition, pick up a ‘Shop Local’ card and earn a stamp for every $50 spent at participating retailers. When it’s filled up, leave the card with the retailer who placed the final stamp on it and pick up another card. Your completed card will be entered in a drawing for a $250 gift card from participating local stores. Enter as many times as you want, as three winning gift cards will be awarded during the campaign.
Also on November 17, the Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce will host a business open house from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. to showcase new inventory and capabilities and to share refreshments with the community. Sponsored by Ivy Creek Healthcare, this annual event also offers a glimpse of Dadeville’s spectacular decorations around the Tallapoosa County Courthouse square.
Return to Dadeville at 7 p.m. on November 26 for an evening of pops and holiday arrangements at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Advance tickets are $10 at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com and $15 at the door.
Russell Crossroads will bustle with activity as the holiday season opens with Naturalist Marianne’s live turkey guests on November 29. Learn about the bird that almost became our national symbol, pet the big birds and take the grandkids’ photos during this event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Naturalist Cabin. Contact Naturalist Marianne at 256-496-2710 for more information.
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Russell Crossroads also will host the annual Holiday Bazaar November 29, a juried art show to kick off your gift list with unique, handcrafted jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodworks and more. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for more information.
Then, bring the kids to Russell Crossroads from 10
a.m. to 2 p.m. that same day to meet Santa Claus. Bring a camera to take photos of this special moment. The event will include arts, crafts and games on the Town Green for the kids. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for more information.
Dadeville opens the holiday parade season on December 1 at 2 p.m. when the Annual Christmas Parade winds through downtown with more than 50 entries to celebrate the holidays. There will be food vendors and prizes for the best floats. To enter the parade, call Carol Sellers at 256-749-0630.
Alexander City’s Christmas Parade will strut through town at 6 p.m., hosted by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. The theme for this year’s parade is “Songs of the Season.” Check out the route at alexcitychamber. com/Christmas-parade and pack the kids into the family van for a magical night. Bring lawn chairs, cozy blankets and hot chocolate, and set up anywhere along the parade route.
The following weekend, don’t miss the free performances of Alexander City Theatre II’s zany production, Have Yourself a Crazy Little Christmas by Collin Andrulonis. Timid housewife Molly already has her hands full as a first-time host of the family celebration under her mother-in-law’s critical eye, but when the carolers ring the doorbell in a repeating fundraising
Fun for All Holdiay fun abounds this month and next, including ACT II's seasonal production, Have Yourself a Crazy Little Christmas, the first week of December.
round, the pet ferret gets loose and her husband’s ex-fiancé shows up, she loses control of the situation. Then, the ferret gets cooked in the turkey, Nana drinks the father-inlaw’s spiked punch, and the mother-in-law gets a faceful of mashed potatoes – more than once. It all makes for an unusual family Christmas card photo. Admission to this delightful, family-friendly play is free, thanks to local sponsors and donors. Catch the show at the Benjamin Russell High School auditorium December 6 and 7 at 7 p.m. and December 8 at 2 p.m. Stroll through some of the city’s most historic homes and businesses in the Dadeville Historic District from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. during the inaugural self-guided Historic District Christmas Tour, featuring nine decorated locations within walking distance of the courthouse square. You’ll find details for this event on page 22 of this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine.
There are many more holidays celebrations in song and shopping opportunities happening all through December. Visit page 40 for the complete listing in the calendar section.
And celebrate safely!
As the seasons transform and warmer weather is slowly replaced with cooler days, you might assume that Mother Nature is about to take a long break for the winter. This is somewhat true. But along with the falling leaves of autumn, numerous seeds are being dispersed for the future. Notably, many of the South’s favorite trees – oaks, maples, yellow-poplar, loblolly pine, eastern redbud – are dropping seeds. Most of these seeds will be eaten by wildlife, and not all will germinate, but a lot of them will land in hospitable places and come forth as new trees.
GARDEN TALK
Shane Harris
Many beloved trees make seeds in what is described as natural regeneration for reforestation. You might find little sweetgum trees growing in the garden, pine seedlings sprouting out of a container, baby yellow-poplars in the flower beds and vigorous water oaks shooting up among the shrubs. Since trees shed so many seeds that tend to sprout up everywhere, why not take advantage of this amazing feature and grow your own trees? Gardeners, horticulturists, hobbyists and even children get a thrill from planting seeds and watching new plants sprout and grow. Not only is it fun, but also, there is a lot of satisfaction in seeing new life emerge. Growing trees from seeds does require work, time and patience. Step one is to educate yourself about the tree and type of seed and what is needed to get it to sprout.
Experts purport that many tree seeds do not germinate immediately because they are in a state of dormancy. Before a seed germinates, dormancy must be broken and fulfilled in nature or manipulated somewhat by gardeners.
There are two terms to understand regarding growing seeds: scarification and stratification.
Grow trees from scratch
Nature's Starter Kit
Novice gardeners can find entertainment in gathering fallen tree seeds and acorns (inset)and growing a sapling from scratch.
Scarification means breaking the thick, hard seed coat. Richard Jauron, a retired Extension horticulturist at Iowa State University, stated in past articles that, “In nature, the seed coat may be broken by microbial action, passage of the seed through the digestive tract of a bird or other animal, exposure to alternate freezing and thawing or fire.” To speed up and aid that process, humans may need to break the seed coat mechanically by using coarse sandpaper or a metal file. Treating the seeds with boiling water is another option worth trying on some tree seeds.
Vegetable gardeners can relate to this practice since okra seeds
must be scarified prior to planting them.
Stratification refers to providing a cold treatment to seeds. In nature, seeds of many tree species will not germinate until they have been exposed to cool temperatures and moist conditions for several weeks or months. They naturally meet these conditions and requirements during the winter. Mr. Jauron writes that gardeners can stratify collected seeds by placing them in a moist 50:50 mixture of sand and peat moss in a plastic bag and storing them in the refrigerator for three to four months.
OAKS
Acorns, with their variety of shapes, weights, types and colors, are indeed the most favorite and easiest seeds to collect. Oaks drop their acorns in the fall, mostly in October in Alabama, with many trees producing massive quantities. They provide high-energy, nutritious food for deer, squirrels, chipmunks, birds and numerous other animals. With that in mind, if you wish to plant and grow them, you will have to pick them up before wildlife find them, and you’ll need to protect them throughout the growing process.
Acorns from the white oak family must be planted in the fall because they will germinate soon after they are mature and hit the ground. Acorns of the red oaks can be planted in the fall but do not germinate until the following spring. Most acorns need a cold, wet stratification period to germinate. Nature usually provides this by dropping acorns in the fall and covering them with 6 to 8 inches of leaves; and then, raining on them for two to three months during the winter. Cool, wet temperatures in the 40s usually satisfy the stratification requirement.
Collect your acorns now. Sound acorns will sink if placed in a bucket of water. Most of the floating acorns are not viable and should be discarded. You can seed them directly into the ground at a depth of two-and-a-half times the diameter of the acorn. Many horticulturists prefer to plant them in landscape containers and get a year of growth before planting the young seedling in the ground. Another option is to pack the acorns in plastic bags full of moist sawdust or moist pine bark and put them in the bottom of the refrigerator. Do not allow them to freeze. Store them until late winter or early spring when you can plant them outdoors.
MAPLES
Maples are indeed some of the area’s most beautiful and desirable landscape trees. The maple seeds are winged fruit called samaras. They do not require a pre-germination treatment and can be sown immediately outdoors in a seedbed or pots, or they could be stored in the refrigerator until spring. Plant the samaras 1/4 to 1 inch deep. Some resources state maple seeds may not germinate until the second spring.
REDBUDS
Eastern redbuds seem prolific in the wild but may be difficult to grow at home. Redbuds are in the legume family and produce flattened bean-like seedpods. Collect the pods when they turn brown in the fall. Air dry the pods, then remove the seed. Redbud seeds require both scarification and stratification before they will germinate. Mr. Jauron advises to “scarify the seeds by soaking seed in concentrated sulfuric acid for 30 minutes or by submerging seed in boiling water for one minute.” Once scarified, the seed can be stratified in the refrigerator for five to eight weeks. Seed
should be planted promptly at a depth of 1/4 inch.
Space will not allow me to mention tips for every possible tree species. Hopefully, you have noticed there is process, and it would likely be very similar for other trees, such as tulippoplar, hickories and pines. It seems like all seeds require some stratification, whether in their natural environment or by human means, to improve germination rates. Online resources and books can provide more information on propagating other tree species.
Nature is amazing to observe and study. You might wish to plant tree seeds simply out of curiosity just to watch and see what might happen. You never know, they might just come up. Worst-case scenario: Go dig up and transplant the little tree seedlings when they do pop up where you least expect it. Nature will always get it right and continue to thrive and prosper with new trees for future generations to enjoy.
From Seed to Shade Germination times for trees can vary. Oak trees (facing page) grow best in cold, wet environments while Maple trees (right) may not germinate until the second spring.
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.
Southern Sweet Potato Pie
A Treat for Your Thanksgiving Table
Do you love pies? If so, I have just the pie for your Thanksgiving table. This Southern sweet potato pie is a classic dessert that has stood the test of time and is a favorite with my family.
Sweet potato pie is a dessert loved by many because of its smooth, creamy filling and flaky crust. It’s warm, cozy and has the perfect fall flavor. The sweetness from the potatoes makes this a great treat after a big holiday meal, and the best part about this recipe is that it makes two pies, so there is plenty to go around.
If you’ve never tried making a pie before, don’t worry. This recipe is super easy. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll have an impressive dessert in no time. If you want to make it even better, you can top your slice with whipped cream or a big scoop of vanilla ice cream.
GOOD EATS
I’ve made this pie using sweet potatoes prepared in two ways: boiled or baked. I prefer to bake them, but you decide what works best for you. If you boil the potatoes, make sure they are drained well.
Choosing the Right Crusts
You can use two deep dish pie crusts or two regular pie crusts for this recipe. You can find these in the freezer section at the grocery store.
For deep-dish crusts, the filling does not reach the top once baked. It sits below the rim about a half-inch or so. This allows more crust to show, plus plenty of room for the whipped topping.
If you want the filling to come to the top of the pie crust, use regular pie crusts for this recipe.
Sweet potato pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition. The next time you’re ready to bake something special, try this pie – it’s always a hit. Grab a slice (or two) and make this dessert a new favorite for your holiday table. Happy Thanksgiving!
Ingredients
1-1/2 cups sweet potatoes (cooked, peeled and mashed)
1/2 cup melted butter
1-1/2 cups sugar
3 eggs
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring
2 9-inch deep-dish pie crusts or 2 regular pie crusts
Directions
Cook sweet potatoes. Mash. Add the potatoes to a mixer and beat until fluffy. Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, milk and vanilla. Mix well. Place the pie crusts on a baking sheet. Add half of the mix to each pie crust. Bake at 325 degrees for 40 to 45 minutes.
Baking Tip: All ovens cook differently. Start checking on your pies after 30 to 35 minutes. If they slightly jiggle in the middle, they’re done. If they slosh, put them back in the oven for several more minutes.
~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.
Gina Abernathy
Dadeville opens historic
STORY BY BETSY ILER
The first fundraising event for the new Dadeville Historic District, the 2024 Historic District Christmas Tour, fulfills a dream that the late local historian, Bill Ponder, held close for nearly 10 years. Featuring nine historic buildings on or near the courthouse square, the December 8 event is dedicated to the memory of Ponder, a Dadeville native who passed on August 7.
Ponder was a founding member of the Dadeville Beautification Board and served as a board member in the Tallapoosa County Historical Society. He received the Gwendolyn C. Turner Lifetime Achievement Award from the Alabama Trust for Historic Preservation and the Laeman Butcher Award from the Dadeville Chamber of Commerce. In 2015, Ponder spearheaded the effort to identify a historic district in Dadeville. The district was registered with state and national registries but was not codified by the Dadeville City Council until last year.
“Preserving the history of the area was important to Bill, and this event is something he always wanted to have available for the community,” said Rick Hidding, chair of the
Dadeville Historic District Committee.
Codified on October 10, 2023, the DHD was created to protect, preserve and enhance the distinctive elements of Dadeville’s historic and architectural heritage; to foster civic pride in the city’s historic architecture; to promote economic prosperity in the city; encourage restoration of historic properties; and to protect and enhance the area to promote its attractiveness to visitors.
The DHD Committee, working as a sub-committee of the City’s planning and zoning commission, is charged with maintaining an inventory and survey of significant historic, architectural and cultural landmarks in the district and increasing public awareness of the value of the city’s historic, cultural and architectural preservation efforts, among other responsibilities. Operating much like the Dadeville Beautification Board, the DHD Committee is not funded as a line item in the City’s fiscal budget but will rely on fundraisers, donations and periodic grant opportunities.
“It’s really nice that people can see how the present came to be,” Hidding said. “There is a lot of interest from new
homes
people in the community in the history of the area and how it evolved.”
The inaugural self-guided Historic District Christmas Tour will open at 1 p.m. at Zazu’s Verandah, where ticketholders will receive a wristband for admission to the designated buildings on a tour map.
“The entire tour is walkable around the square and includes buildings that are on the state and national registries of historic places,” Hidding said. “They are all within a quarter mile of the square.”
Each building on the tour map carries significant, documented history in the area and tour visitors at each location will be privy to that information, either posted prominently near the entry or as a handout at each tour stop.
Included on the tour is the Hicks & Oliver building that today is home to Zazu’s Verandah. Built in 1914, the storefront originally served as a hardware and department store. Now an event venue, Zazu’s will host an after-party for the tour with refreshments with a cash bar and live music by David Jones from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Tallapoosa County Bank building, circa 1894, also is on the tour. The building was recently renovated to highlight its historical elements, including two fireplaces, wainscoting and the original bank vault.
In Honor of Bill Ponder Left: The Okfuskee Home will share its 200-year history with tour participants; Above: Dadeville historic district was created in 2013.
The Sturdivant-Easterwood-Jones home, built in 1885 by Thomas and Mary Corprew Sturdivant, was featured in Lake Martin Living magazine in December of 2021, following the renovation of its eight guest rooms, library and living areas.
Well known throughout the area is The Mitchell House, constructed in 1835 and once home to Sidney Z. Mitchell, a founder of what today is Alabama Power and the inventor of the power grid system that distributes electricity across the country’s Eastern Seaboard.
The McClendon-Banks-First Baptist Church Youth House holds a prominent place in Dadeville history, as it was the home of several local doctors, including Dr. Joseph T. Banks, who practiced in Dadeville for 50 years. Built around the turn of the 20th century, the building now is owned by First Baptist Church.
A silent witness to almost 200 years of local history, the antebellum Okfuskee Home sheltered residents before and during Alabama’s secession, the Reconstruction period, two World Wars and into the 21st century. Artifacts in the home are reminiscent of the 1861 Tallapoosa County Courthouse.
Home to the Oliver & Treadwell Law Firm, the BulgerDennis-Treadwell building, circa 1875, has served as a law office for all but just a few of its 150 years and is the oldest building on the courthouse square.
Recently Restored
Recently reopened as the Miller’s on Broadnax restaurant, the old Miller Hotel was built in 1924 by Nora Miller, a prominent businesswoman who is credited with assisting Thomas Martin in choosing a site for Martin Dam.
The Tallapoosa County Bank retains its original architectural features.
Also on the tour map is the Jim & Jane Black House. Built in 1965, this traditional Southern home was known throughout the area for Christmas holiday celebrations with great style and flair.
Hidding, who purchased property in Dadeville in 2016 and moved here fulltime two years later with his wife, Mitzy, was a member of a committee that hosted an annual holiday home tour in Atlanta.
“This is something we hope to make an annual event. There is so much history in the homes and businesses throughout Dadeville’s Historic District, we couldn’t possibly feature all of them in one year,” he said.
Docents at each tour location will help visitors find their way from one building to the next and answer visitors’ questions about the area. Tickets for the tour are $25 each and benefit the Dadeville Historic District. Tickets
are available at Tallapoosa Nutrition on the courthouse square, online at Eventbrite.com or via QR code. The tour buildings will close at 5 p.m. The tour is a rain-or-shine event.
Hidding said funds raised in this inaugural event will help to further the committee’s goals, which include adding street sign markers in the historic district and creating flyers that promote the district’s significant history.
“We would leave those in area restaurants and shops where people could pick them up and learn about the area. It would give people something interesting to do. We’d also like to create a ‘Welcome to Dadeville’ mural somewhere in the area,” he said. “These are simple beginnings, but they do cost money, and our funding is completely independent.”
For more information, contact Hidding at 256-307-2224.
Lake Martin homeowners seeking to enhance their lakefront from the front door to the waterline with docks, decks, boathouses, hard and soft scapes, irrigation, lighting and other features or to renovate or service existing ones.
Docks & Seawalls Decks & Patios
Landscaping
Lighting & Electrical
Repairs & Maintenance
St. Potter'sJames'Guild
STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE
PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS & SHAYLEE BECK MOORE
For more than a decade, it has become a cherished tradition in the Alexander City community for crowds to gather once a year outside St. James Episcopal Church, eagerly lining up for the opportunity to purchase unique, one-of-a-kind handcrafted pottery.
But behind the displays of brilliantly colored glazed art and craftsmanship is a group of 16 dedicated women who volunteer countless hours year-round to create beautiful masterpieces that support the local community.
The St. James Potter’s Guild began in 2011 when a small group of church members sought to revive the St. James Bazaar, aiming to raise funds for their community outreach programs. That same year, Sue Pritchard, then a hobby potter, was introduced to the church community and invited to attend a women’s group to share about her faith and knowledge of pottery.
“Andrea Peacock was one of the yoga teachers here at St. James and asked me if I would come to a meeting of Episcopal Church Women and talk about my faith journey, as well as talk about the pottery that I do,” said Pritchard. “And so I came and met the most wonderful women I’ve ever met anywhere and thoroughly had a good time. We each made a little pottery cross together; and then, I brought the crosses home to fire them in my kiln.”
With nearly 10 years of pottery experience, Pritchard soon found herself at the heart of a growing project. She saw a need for her skills and services and volunteered to use her home kiln to fire handmade pottery crosses for the group.
Little did Pritchard know that her small act of giving would lead to a much bigger impact.
“After creating crosses for our group, Martha Chapman, who met me through ECW, asked if I would come back to teach her how to make the crosses and if I would also help fire them at home for their upcoming church bazaar.”
Pritchard eagerly agreed and began using her home kiln to fire hundreds of handmade crosses for the pottery guild’s first annual bazaar. Members hand-rolled the clay with rolling pins and shaped the crosses with cookie cutters; then, delicately glazed and individually wrapped them. Pritchard took them to her home, where she fired each piece in her personal kiln. It took countless hours to complete the task, but the hard volunteer work was worth every moment, she said.
That first year, an estimated 400 crosses were created for the St. James Bazaar, and much to Pritchard’s surprise, all of the crosses sold out within a matter of hours.
“I was so afraid that, you know, maybe 150 would sell, and everybody would be disappointed. But they were all gone,” she said.
With this newfound success, the Potter’s Guild expanded on its creations, introducing the now-famous fish-shaped spoon rests the following year. More than a decade later, the guild crafts hundreds of unique pieces for the bazaar, including mugs, bowls, centerpieces and nativity scenes, often
From the Potter's Hands
Previous Pages: The St. James Potter's Guild has added new glazes and colors to this year's offerings; This Page Top to Bottom: Artist Ruth Nabors has expanded her painted pottery collection; A variety of Nativities will be available; Each cross is handmade; The potters incorporate elements of nature in their works.
incorporating intricate designs into their artwork using everyday items, such as dinner placemats and tree leaves, as inspiration.
They proudly display their artwork, comparing it to pieces that could sell professionally for hundreds of dollars; however, the heart behind the pottery is to make it affordable for everyone to enjoy.
“We keep our prices really low on purpose, especially on the crosses,” Pritchard said. “Crosses are very special to us. If somebody wants to be able to buy 10 to give to their children’s teachers or buy 10 to give to their kids and grandkids or to pass them
the Church’s outreach programs, including the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center, the American Red Cross Fire Fund and the Alabama Sheriffs’ Girls Ranch, among many others. A portion also supports the Church’s Soup to Go program, which provides a weekly drive-thru meal for anyone in the community.
In addition to selling pieces at the bazaar, the guild donates pottery crosses to cancer treatment centers and dialysis patients each month, adding an additional layer of community support to their craft.
Every purchase of the pottery not only brings home a unique piece of artwork but also contributes
From the Clay Sue Pritchard (Left) and Mary Brantley Chambliss exhibit just a few of the items available at this year's one-day public sale.
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and the Great American Smokeout is coming up November 21. That’s the day when we encourage smokers to go a day without smoking. But November is also the month we emphasize another lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
About 14 million Americans suffer from COPD, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Alabama has the eighth-highest prevalence of COPD in the nation. About 8.1 percent of Tallapoosa County residents and 7.5 percent of Coosa County residents suffer from COPD.
Alabama is also eighth in the number of COPDrelated deaths, with 141 out of 100,000 persons dying of the disease.
There are two forms of the disease: emphysema and bronchitis. Bronchitis is inflammation of the airways in the lungs, which makes it difficult to breathe. Most forms are temporary, like when you get an infection; however, exposure to harmful chemicals can cause chronic bronchitis. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, mucus production and shortness of breath.
Emphysema is chronic and results from damage to the air sacs, or alveoli, where air is exchanged in the circulatory system. Fresh air and oxygen enter the bloodstream, and carbon dioxide is released from the bloodstream to be exhaled. When your air sacs are damaged, the exchange of good air for bad is diminished, causing a buildup of carbon dioxide
Love Your Lungs
in your system. This damage is permanent.
COPD affects your quality of life, making it difficult to walk or climb stairs, work or play, and it can even make it difficult to think or make decisions. Symptoms tend to appear after age 50, but by that time significant damage has occurred to the lungs.
The single most important thing you can do to prevent COPD, or to prevent its worsening, is to quit smoking. Cigarette smoke is the number one cause of COPD, but long-term exposure to hazardous chemicals in the workplace or to air pollution can also cause COPD.
Other causes of COPD include frequent childhood respiratory infections and a rare genetic disorder called alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency.
Having asthma or a family history of COPD also increases the likelihood of developing the disease. If you’re experiencing shortness of breath, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may ask you to see a pulmonologist, who is an expert in lung diseases. The pulmonologist will run tests to diagnose the cause of your shortness of breath.
Dr. Tom Schneider is a pulmonologist who practices at Russell Medical. He is a very experienced, highly qualified physician and is available to take care of your lung-related issues.
If you are diagnosed with COPD, there are some actions you can take to prevent its progression and to compensate for its effect on your quality of life. Exercise can increase your physical tolerance. If you have moderate to severe COPD, your doctor may prescribe pulmonary rehabilitation, which
is a structured exercise program to increase your endurance and to teach you methods of energy conservation. Russell Medical’s Total Rehab offers a pulmonary rehabilitation program. Avoid going outdoors when air quality is poor to reduce the chance of exacerbating your symptoms. Get vaccinated against the flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) to reduce your risk of respiratory infections, and if you do get a respiratory infection, seek treatment sooner rather than later, with antibiotics and bronchodilators, to help you avoid worsening symptoms.
MEDICAL NEWS
George Miranda
Your doctor can also prescribe medications, like oral or inhaled steroids, and a rescue inhaler. And I can’t say this enough: Stop smoking. If your COPD progresses, you may find yourself on oxygen therapy. The oxygen can compensate for your lungs’ ability to take in oxygen, but it doesn’t remedy your lungs’ inability to expel carbon dioxide. Persons with advanced COPD are prone to frequent hospitalization or emergency room visits when they have flare-ups of their symptoms.
Once again, prevention is the best medicine. But if you have been diagnosed with COPD, it’s important to take steps to limit further damage to your lungs and adopt lifestyle modifications to help you live with the disease.
Getting back to lung cancer for a moment. If you are a smoker, or if you were a smoker but quit within the last 15 years, consider discussing lung cancer screening with your doctor.
Persons age 50 or older, with a 20 pack-year history of smoking (that’s a pack a day for 20 years, or 2 packs a day for 10 years) will qualify for lung cancer screening with an annual low-dose CT scan. Most insurance plans will cover low-dose CT at 100 percent, and that service is available at Russell Medical with a physician’s prescription.
But if you are still smoking, don’t think of lung cancer screening as a get-out-of-jail-free card. A negative CT scan doesn’t mean you can continue smoking. It just means you dodged a bullet this year. Next year, you might not be so lucky.
~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center.
Avoid the financial naughty list
The holidays have long been synonymous with spending money. But with interest rates climbing and economic challenges persisting this year, it’s more important than ever to budget your holiday spending wisely. The key to enjoying an exciting holiday season without damaging your financial health is thoughtful preparation and intentional spending. With that in mind, here are some quick tips to keep you on budget this holiday season and a few ways to experience the joy of giving without spending a dime.
Create a budget with purpose
Before you dive into holiday shopping, define your overall budget that all your spending must fall under. Knowing how much you can afford to spend will guide your purchasing decisions and help prevent overspending. Remember, your total budget needs to cover gifts and all holiday-related expenses, such as hosting parties, traveling or other holiday activities. Start by establishing parameters for each category; then, break it down by event, person or activity to control your spending. This is a sure way to avoid the anxiety of starting a new year with debt.
Give with intention
Consider the intent and purpose behind each gift you give. Sometimes, giving can feel like checking a box, but the reason for the season is more than just making sure that everyone you know receives an item. Try focusing on giving from the heart rather than the wallet. Gifts can be as meaningful as offering your time to someone you love or creating something simple yet personal. By giving with intention, you create meaningful memories without overspending. In today’s world, where online shopping makes impulse buying easy, think about being unique and tying back to the emotion behind your gifts.
Celebrate locally with your community Christmas is about spending time with loved ones and celebrating the season. Alexander City offers numerous free holiday events, such as the annual Christmas parade on the first Monday in December, a bustling holiday market and the annual Christmas breakfast. These events not only provide festive cheer but also support local businesses. If you choose to buy gifts, these events allow you to spend your money locally.
Manage credit cards wisely
This season, be disciplined with your credit card use and make informed financial choices to safeguard your financial future. In an environment where interest rates are climbing, it’s crucial to use credit cards as a tool for protection rather than as a short-term holiday loan. Avoid spending more than you can afford to pay off immediately to prevent starting next year with an accumulation of high-interest debt. Explore unique gift ideas
MONEY
MATTERS
Terry Mitchell
With the ease of online shopping, people often buy what they want throughout the year, making holiday gifts feel less special. Instead, consider thrifting or crafting unique gifts that show thought and creativity. Thrift stores and handmade gifts can provide one-of-a-kind items that are both budget-friendly and meaningful, emphasizing the personal touch in your holiday giving. And as a bonus, shopping at local thrift stores supports small businesses and can help you find unique treasures. Give back to the community If you’re fortunate enough to be able to share your blessings, consider shifting your focus from traditional gift-giving to charitable activities. Adopt a family through organizations like the Salvation Army or volunteer to make a difference in someone’s life. You could also collect funds with friends and make a large donation to a food bank or community center. If you’re unsure where to donate, reach out to your local chamber of commerce or city council for guidance. This kind of giving creates lasting memories and positively impacts the community.
The holiday season should be a time of joy and connection, not financial stress. You can celebrate the season without overspending by budgeting wisely, giving thoughtfully and participating in your community.
Remember, it’s not just about the gifts under the tree; it’s about the memories you create and the difference you make in the lives of others. With these easy tips, you can enjoy the holidays with peace of mind and a heart full of gratitude.
~ Terry Mitchell is the market manager at the Valley National Bank Auburn branch. He has been banking in the area for 25 years. This article is for informational purposes only. Any views, thoughts and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Valley National Bank.
OH SNAP! Renew Our Rivers Clean-Up
Friday and Saturday, November 1-2, 2024 Lake Martin
1. Lauren Watts and Sydnee Riley
2. Susan McCrispin and Ori
3. Andrew Spraggins and Evan Wright
4. Rendell Clark, Anita Holley and Randy Kirkland
5. Russell Lands crew
6. Ruby Burks, Jo Hoover, Meori Smith and Queen Ballard
7. James Morgan and Emily Sprayberry
8. Earle Green and JB Hampton
9. Shaylee Beck Moore, John Thompson, Tammie McVicker and Bruce Adams
10. Derek Richesin
11. Bonnie Vinson and John Coram
12. Mary Skinner and Shirley Burt
13. Gina Murray
14. Ashley and Zoe Lacey, Alivia Cagle and Ethan Caldwell 15. Charlee Jones
16. Marshall Griffin and Tonya and Ken Holland
17. Jean Deal and Jane Malloch
18. Dylan and Mollie Hyland
19. Kamille, Kimberly and Cynthia Lugo
OH SNAP! Bassmaster Opens Tournament
Friday, October 11, 2024
Wind Creek State Park
1. Jacob Bigelow and Amber Schlies
2. Shyam and Austin Cranford
3. Mike and Carrie Mayo
4. Colin Bowden, Christopher Dennis and Vladimir Weaver
5. Paul, Draden, Robin and Kyle Zellhoefer
6. Max McCorkle, Will Davis Jr. and Sims Champman
7. Vivian Autry, Sandra Fuller, Katelyn Cotton and Payton Natali
8. Jensen McMurry, Caitlin Gehrman, Macey Bain, Emily Stephen and Jax
Saturday, October 12, 2024
Eclectic
1. Jessica Taylor, Paula Thornton and Cindy, Kelsey and Stephanie Taylor
2. Fannie, Sonya and Shon Gilbert
3. Joan Newman, Brenda and Maggie Dean and Anita Graves
4. Ransley and Piper McCrary
5. Michael and Celia Giddens
6. Robin Lindsay Thornell, Jackie Stearns and Betty Coker
1.Rick Hidding, Sue Paggen, Mitzy Hidding and Ellie
2. Marie Forbus
3. Leigh and Kurt Pfitzner and Judy Waters
4. Pamela Boyd and Nancy Whyte
5. Claire and Lisa Williams
6. Butch Rice, Shey Lynn and Julie Brock
Charles E. Bailey Sportplex
1. Adeline Lewis and Ava Barrett
2. Kraige Abercrumbie and Arora Loftin
3. Chance Vardaman and Karlyn Arnold
4. Sharonda Youngblood and Iraysha Abercrumbie
5. Kristen Chapman, Amanda Vickers and Jessica Stroud
6. Nova Calhoun, Zari Jackson, D’Arcy Calhoun, Meghan
Stone and Bre’Asia Dansby
7. Brad, Rilee, Brenda and Tim Dunham
FEATURED EVENT Calendar
Turkey Talk at Crossroads
Russell Lands hosts live turkeys for Thanksgiving fun
Russell Lands Naturalist Marianne Gauldin will be at the Naturalist Cabin November 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a few of her discoveries in Russell Forest, along with a few pardoned turkeys who survived the Thanksgiving feast. Bring the family to the Holiday Bazaar at the Crossroads to get a festive dose of nature cheer and meet the one critter that’s on everyone’s Thanksgiving guest list. Live turkeys of the domestic variety will be at the Naturalist’s Cabin for some serious turkey talk. In addition to visiting with the birds of honor, you can meet the eastern wild turkey. Marianne will
Gobble, Gobble
show you how to pet and handle this esteemed guest as she educates on the birds' interesting features, including caruncles, a snood, spurs and a beard. The whole family will enjoy watching the star of Thanksgiving strut its stuff. Appropriate for all ages. No charge − everyone is welcome. Contact Marianne at 256-496-2710 for more information or email her at naturalist@ russelllands.com.
Families can enjoy meeting and petting live turkeys that escaped the dinner table on Thanksgiving Day. Bring a camera!
November 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.
November 14
Coffee & Connections
The 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.
November 16
St. James Bazaar
St. James Episcopal Church at 347 S. Central Avenue in Alexander City will host its annual bazaar from 9 a.m. to noon, featuring crosses, platters, bowls and new pottery items by the St. James Potter's Guild, as well as a variety of homemade cakes, casseroles and soups; handcrafted items, woodworks and more. All proceeds benefit local community outreach programs.
November 16 & December 21
Cocktail Class
Join the fun and learn to mix up a great cocktail at The Local at 41 Main in Alexander City from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The class is $35, and participants will go home with recipes for holiday party drinks, classic cocktails and more.
November 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
LAKE REGION EVENTS
local retailers. Pick up another card when you turn one in. There’s no limit to the number of times you can enter. To see all participating merchants, visit alexcitychamber.com/tis-the-season.
November 17
Dadeville Open House
Downtown Dadeville welcomes guests to enjoy this holiday shopping event supporting local businesses and retailers in the upcoming holiday season. Hosted by the Lake MartinDadeville Area Chamber of Commerce, enjoy refreshments and check out a wide variety of shopping from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. while crossing items off holiday shopping lists.
November 18
Roaring Twenties Revue Celebrating 100 Years
Celebrate the G.A. Veazey 924 cornerstone at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center at 128 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.
November 20
Sunflowers at AACA
The Arts Association of Central Alabama will create renditions of sunflowers to be donated to King’s Home to brighten the women’s and children’s shelters. Still life displays will be set up, and members will work in the medium of their choice from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Senior Center in the sportplex in Alexander City. For more information, call Joe Fehrmann at 205-746-0322.
November 26
Dadeville Community Chorus Fall/Holiday Concert
Enjoy an evening of pops and holiday arrangements at 7 p.m. at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center with conductor Lila Meadows and accompanist Nancy Wilson. Advance tickets are $10 at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com. Tickets will be $15 at the door.
November 29
Holiday Bazaar
Find gifts for everyone on your list at the annual Holiday Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Russell Crossroads. Choose from an extensive array of unique, handcrafted items, including jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork and more. For more information, visit russelllands.com/blog/events.
November 29
Christmas at Crossroads
Get those Christmas lists and cameras ready because Santa Claus will visit Russell Crossroads from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be arts and crafts for the children, games to play and more activities on the Town Green. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for more information.
December 1
Spirit of a Hometown Christmas Parade
Dadeville’s Annual Christmas Parade will wind through downtown at 2 p.m. on South, Broadnax and LaFayette streets as 50 to 75 festive floats and other entries celebrate the season. Food vendors will be set up near PNC Bank and City Hall. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place floats. Entry fee for floats is $25; $15 for individual entries. Call Carol Sellers at 256-749-0630 to register an entry.
December 2
Downtown Christmas Parade
Bands, businesses and believers in Christmas will parade through the streets with seasonal music, lights and decorations at 6 p.m., courtesy of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. For route and details visit alexcitychamber.com/christmasparade.
December 5
David Jones at Zazu’s Verandah
David Jones will play Christmas music and personal favorites from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Listening Room at Zazu’s Verandah. Admission is free. Please tip the musician.
LAKE REGION EVENTS
December 6 − 8
Have Yourself
a Crazy Little Christmas
Alexander City Theatre II will stage Collin Andrulonis’ delightful holiday play at 7 p.m. Dec. 6 and 7 and 2 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Benjamin Russell High School auditorium. Admission for this hilarious, family-friendly production is free. Visit the Alexander City Theatre II Facebook page for details.
December 8
Sing Christmas
This Red Ridge United Methodist Church Christmas cantata, composed by Joel Raney and Mary McDonald, will be accompanied by a 22-piece orchestra at 9:30 a.m. The public is welcome.
December 8
Historic District Christmas Tour
The Dadeville Historic District Committee will offer a self-guided tour of historic homes and buildings that are on or in the courthouse square area in honor of the late Bill Ponder. Tour sites will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Start the tour at Zazu’s Verandah to purchase tickets, get a wristband and obtain a map of the homes on tour. David Jones will play Christmas music at Zazu’s Verandah from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Light snacks will be provided, and there will be a cash bar. Tickets are $25 each and are available at Tallapoosa Nutrition during regular hours of operation. Nine buildings are on the tour, including the Sturdivant-Easterwood-Jones home, The Mitchell House, the BulgerDennis-Treadwell building and more.
December 12
Christmas with Friends
Alexander City’s Scott Blake and friends will present this annual Christmas concert at 6:30 p.m. on the Betty Carol Graham Center stage at the Central Alabama Community College Alexander City campus. Admission is free, but donations at the door are presented to a local charity.
December 13
The BEV and Band Holiday Show
Join the jazzy, soulful celebration of life during the holiday season at 6:30 p.m. at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Expect special activities for the kids and refreshments, as well as an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children admitted free by reservation. Advance tickets for adults are $10 at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com. Tickets are $15 at the door.
December 14
Vulcan Orienteering Club
Pick up a map and e-stick at the Wind Creek State Park Beach from 9 a.m. to noon and test your navigation skills by locating flags off the beaten path. More than 200 JROTC students will enter for their regional championship competition this year. Join the fun or just come out to watch.
December 14
5th Annual Downtown Christmas
Main Street Alexander and Alexander City Parks & Rec invite you to experience the magic of the season from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. downtown as this popular celebration takes over. Finish your holiday shopping while the kids are engaged in festive activities.
December 14
The Mystic Order of East Alabama Fiction Writers
Dadeville Public Library and Dadeville Performing Arts Center present authors Gail Langley, Marian Carcache, Margee Bright Ragland, Joanne Camp, Katie Jackson and Mary Dansak as they share their secrets and stories at noon at DPAC. Admission is free.
December 17
Christmas Music at DPAC
The Real Bells and Lake Martin Dulcimer Club will present a oneof-a-kind concert with a unique tone and style of Christmas tunes, some favorites and others not so familiar. Children admitted free by reservation. Adult tickets are $10 in advance at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com or $15 at the door.
Season-long Events
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 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.
Library Storytimes
Storytime for children ages 5 and younger is held at the Dadeville Public Library at 10 a.m. every Tuesday. In Alexander City, Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in holds themed storytimes at 10 a.m. every Wednesday for preschool-aged children and younger.
Real Island Supper
The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month (second Friday in December) at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room, 1495 Real Island Road, Equality. Everyone is welcome. Admission is $3 per adult; bring a covered dish to share. Some nights are themed, so call ahead to find out if costumes or certain types of food are in order. For more information, contact Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724.
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.
Fourth Fridays at EPAC
The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the fourth Friday nights of each month (except December) at 6:30 p.m. on state Route 9 in Equality. Visit the Equality Performing Arts Center Facebook page for a schedule of upcoming artists.
Charity Bingo at Niffer’s Place Lake Martin
Niffer’s Place at 7500 state Route 49 in Dadeville hosts charity bingo every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Cards are $1 each, and funds go to participating charities.
Tallassee Lions Club
The Tallassee Lions Club meets every Tuesday at Cozumel Restaurant, across from the football stadium in Tallassee,
from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. The public is welcome to join for an hour of humor, information, civic pride and patriotism. For more information, call Marilyn Speake at 334-283-6864 or email her at marilyn.speake@tcschools.com.
Christmas in Pennington Park
Pennington Park and Everything’s
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 256-307-1499
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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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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ACulture Shock Hawaii Vacay
loha! I’m writing this from Waikiki on my last full day of vacation here on Oahu. Everything you hear about Hawaii is true. The seafood is fresh. The drinks are cold. The surf is great, and the rainbow sightings are daily. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. When John and I first started planning our week here, I quickly realized how little I knew about our 50th state, located 2,000 miles southwest of the mainland. Hawaii was admitted to the union in 1959 and has eight main islands. I had to study a map to see how the islands are arranged; and then, figure out which one to start with. With only five true full days to work with, I knew we had to commit to one island, for the sake of time. Oahu made the most sense, with a direct flight from Atlanta to Honolulu. If you grow up in the South, you usually spend the majority of your vacations on the Gulf Coast; and then, perhaps venture to the Caribbean. With so many beautiful tropical places in close proximity, Hawaii and its nine-hour flight are often put on the back burner. Incredibly diverse, Oahu transitions from beach to mountains to rainforest in the blink of an eye, and I couldn’t tell if we were in the Pacific Northwest or Thailand. It feels like both. We hiked to waterfalls, old World War II lookouts like Diamond Head and climbed more than 1,000 stairs (old railroad ties) up a mountain that was also an old lookout called Koko Head. Koko
Head was rough for someone with a fear of heights (cough, cough), but the views were unlike anything I have witnessed. I just couldn’t enjoy it until I was back down at the bottom! We trekked through Kualoa Ranch via horseback through the valley where Jurassic Park was filmed. My 8-year-old self was dying inside. It was incredible.
Rich in World War II history, Pearl Harbor was a highlight of the trip. The submarine museum was the best, and one of the most interesting exhibits there is the Disney exhibit. I had no idea how involved Walt Disney was in the war effort, including making training videos and marketing materials – not to mention the way the Disney characters were incorporated into the individual submarines’ insignias.
I could write an entire column on the food here, but one thing holds true here as much as it does anywhere: Seek out the city’s Chinatown. That’s where the best restaurants are, including most of the recent James Beard winners and nominees like Fete and The Pig and the Lady. There wasn’t a bad bite of tuna, curry or acai bowls to be found.
If you are planning trips for 2025 and have not done Hawaii yet, do it. Definitely rent a car and get ready to explore. This is not the place to just lie by the pool. In fact, it’s the first tropical trip I have taken where I didn’t lie on the beach. I would have felt guilty because I can do that at home. How lucky are we that we live at Lake Martin with our own beaches? Hipa Hipa!
~ 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
The Hendrix Cottages at Sterling Gate are designed for independent senior living and are conveniently located on the Russell Medical campus. Life at the Hendrix Cottages at Sterling Gate offers amenities and oor plan choices to suit your needs. Family, friends and pets are always welcome to the Hendrix Cottages, and your security, privacy and peace of mind are assured. Call for more information!
• 3 oor-plan options
• Pet friendly
• Scheduled Housekeeping
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