Lake Martin Living December 2022

Sarah Morgan Hill Tallassee Mayor

There’s a lot of nostalgia in this month’s issue of Lake Martin Living magazine, from Christmas traditions to shopping excursions and bread making.

For me, there’s even nostalgia in the featured calendar event on page 40, sign language classes at the local library. I was a child in an age when the term ‘handheld electronics’ meant a transistor radio, and children were not allowed to watch daytime television (parents didn’t want us to see those scathing soap opera dramas). In such entertainment deprivation, the complete set of World Book Encyclopedias was absolutely riveting. This primitive pre-cursor to the internet search engine was chock full of interesting things to learn and do.

When a deaf girl moved to the neighborhood, I was fascinated with the way she talked with her hands. Off to the ‘S’ volume of the wonderful world of encyclopedias I went. I can still see the fingered alphabet page in my mind’s eye. It was very easy to pick up, and within minutes, I was spelling words. Before long, all my brothers and sisters were fingerspelling along with me.

Though my fascination with fingerspelling fell away at the end of that summer, I worked as a communication liaison between the deaf and hearing communities in my early 20s. I made phone calls for the deaf and manned a teletypewriter service to convey emergency information from deaf people to first responders. I think the encyclopedia’s fingerspelling page had something to do with that.

On page 14, you’ll take a trip back in time as some of our readers and TPI staff share the stories behind their favorite Christmas ornaments. Some of the stories are sweet; some are fun; and some will bring a tear to your eye. We hope you enjoy them.

Then, Erin Chesnutt takes us back to a simpler time on page 10 in this month’s ‘Go Local’ feature at the Kowaliga General Store. This delightful shopping adventure mixes the old with the new, from the proprietor’s scrumptious pies to gift items, antiques and fresh produce, all arranged in nostalgic general-store fashion.

And if you’re looking for an easy-to-make, flavorful Christmas treat, turn to Gina Abernathy’s ‘Good Eats’ column on page 22. The recipe sounded so good, I baked a cranberry-orange loaf two days after she sent me the recipe for publication. That tang of orange zest with the sweetness of cranberries is a winner – and it was so easy, even I could do it.

Let this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine spark some memories in your life this Christmas. And may those memories bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Merry Christmas.

Editor's Note: The article on page 28 appeared in the November issue of Lake Martin Living magazine and is being reprinted to correct technical errors in the first printing.

Lake Martin Living

Chairman

Kenneth Boone

General Manager Tippy Hunter

Editor-in-Chief Betsy Iler

Creative Services Audra Spears

Business & Digital Development Director Angela Mullins

Contributors

Kenneth Boone

Breanna Manley Lacey Howell Dani Ream Lee Williams Gina Abernathy Audra Spears Cliff Williams Abigail Murphy Henry Zimmer Kaitlin Fleming William Marlow

Audience Development Director Erin Burton

Marketing/Advertising Sales

Renee Trice Jennifer Welch Emily Gregg Marilyn Hawkins Sheryl Jennings

Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

Betsy Iler, Editor-in-Chief

Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

In this season of love and joy, Gina Abernathy created a sweet treat to acoompay the carols, the stories retold year after year and the memories we will hold close to our hearts for years to come. This easy and delicious cranberry loaf with orange glaze adds just a bit more color to the festivities.

Photo by Audra Spears

First responders surprised with gift

Mitzy Hidding, owner of Zazu’s Verandah in Dadeville, surprised 17 first responders with $250 gift cards from local residents as a tribute for their public service.

“We are very thankful for your service and dedication to our community, and these tokens of our community appreciation are being presented to our city police officers and firefighter employees, who put their lives on the line for each of us every day,” Hidding said at the Nov. 22 city council meeting.

The gift cards totaled $4,000, all of which came from the pockets of local residents. According to the gift organizers, citizens bore the act of kindness in response to hardship within Dadeville’s police force struggling with retaining police officers.

“We hope that everybody will take five minutes and join in saying how thankful we are,” Hidding said.

Floyd described the gifts as indicative of the Dadeville spirit and the generosity that defines the community he serves.

Gifts of Gratitude

Mitzy Hidding (right) delivered gift cards to first responders at the Dadeville City Council meeting last month.

“It just goes to show what is right about the City of Dadeville. For someone to give up their time and resources to show you that they’re thinking about you, especially during the holiday season, it’s humbling,” Floyd said. “Chief Atkins and I have both discussed this before, and that is our citizens deserve the best because we have the best citizens.”

Chief Atkins concurred, adding that he and his department appreciated the validation for their efforts.

“It feels good to us to know that we are recognized and that the citizens are seeing what we’re doing and that we are trying our best to provide a good service for them,” Atkins said.

~ William Marlow

Custodian sparks video news program at local school

Reeltown Elementary School custodian, Chuck Blake, brought his passion for video production to work this year when he helped students launch a broadcast news program.

“I came up with the idea and presented it to Principal Lisa Hornsby, and she was excited about it,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to do something like this, and with the new school, we have the technology now.”

ReelNews, a live 10-minute newscast, airs daily throughout the Reeltown Elementary School campus. As lead director, Blake said the experience is a dream come true.

“I’ve always had an interest in video production. I’ve learned how to do this on my own, and I would have never imagined it would be at this point,” Blake said.

A 2001 Dadeville graduate, Blake initially joined the school system 18 years ago as a custodian, but he has always loved being behind a camera. Outside of school, Blake has dedicated hours to learning the craft of video production and even has founded a wedding video company, Imagine This Films.

Now, Blake shares his craft with the school’s students, overseeing ReelNews with three school faculty members.

“It’s been such a joy to see the idea I had really take off,” Blake said. “It has become something that fourth and fifth graders already can’t wait to be a part of.”

Students operate every aspect of the broadcast, with sixth graders handling cameras, managing lights and editing video.

Blake said the approach exposes students to job training and is an outlet for students interested in careers in broadcasting,

filmmaking or news reporting.

Real News Broadcast at ReelNews

Reeltown students live stream a news report at school every morning.

“I’ve already seen what this has done for these kids, and how it has helped them figure out what they may want to do in life, and them putting out this show may help them one day with their career,” he said.

ReelNews airs every weekday morning at 7:30 a.m., and is privately live streamed.

~ William Marlow

Kowaliga General Store

STORY BY ERIN CHESNUTT & PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER

When Teresa Cameron purchased a store on state Route 63 three years ago, she started by selling produce from a tent due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Kowaliga General Store has come a long way since then. Although customers are still greeted with a large ‘Produce’ sign at the entrance, once inside, it is easy to see that there is a lot more than just produce to explore.

Kowaliga General Store is a homey, welcoming spot with fresh pies for sale and a variety of gift items.

“The pies have really taken off,” Cameron said. “I filled 150 orders of pies and cakes Thanksgiving week.”

She calls the bakery business ‘The Silly Hen Bakery’ as a tribute to the chickens she has at home. Cameron bakes what she knows, and her top sellers include key lime and Kentucky derby pies, as well as Jack Daniel’s

fudge. In addition to the pies and cakes, shoppers can find stoneground grits, bread mixes and boiled peanuts, along with a selection of fresh produce. Sometimes, lucky shoppers will find fresh eggs from Cameron’s hens. A variety of gift items, many of them lake themed, are also available and very popular.

This month, Cameron is featuring some beautiful Christmas ornaments that could make wonderful decorations or gifts.

She also has big plans, including a coffee bar and deli counter that will service customers seven days a week with fresh soups and sandwiches. Cameron is planning for the store expansion to be completed in early 2023. With contractors in high demand around the lake, she hopes that she has finally found someone who will complete the finishing touches on her industrial kitchen before lake

season starts this spring.

In addition, Cameron promotes a vehicular fire extinguisher campaign through the store. After losing her 16-year-old son, Gardner, in a car fire following an auto accident last March, she encourages her customers to purchase fire extinguishers for their cars. River Bank in Alexander City has set up a fund for donations that are used to purchase the fire extinguishers that Cameron gives away. At times, she has some for sale at Kowaliga General Store. When she sells one in her shop, the proceeds are used to buy another fire extinguisher.

“Fire extinguishers are required on boats and in RVs. Why not cars?” Cameron said. “If a fire extinguisher had been available immediately after the crash, my son may still be alive. By keeping a fire extinguisher in your car, you may save your life or the life of another.”

Perfect as Pie

Left: Pies are Teresa Cameron's most popular offering at Kowaliga General Store; Above: Art, clothing, food and gift items make a charming display.

Kowaliga General Store is open seven days a week. During lake season, the hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. or when the last customer leaves. During the winter months, the shop usually closes at 3 p.m., so Cameron can tend to the hens and other animals she has at home.

This store is worth the time to stop in and take a look around. Check out Cameron’s Facebook page for bakery items available to order.

Everyday Grandeur

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

Treasured Trinkets

Readers and magazine staff share their favorite ornaments, baubles and Christmas decorations

STORY BY BETSY ILER

It’s the odd assortment of ornaments – the old, seemingly worn-out ones – that we proudly make a fuss over as we hang them on the Christmas tree or place on the mantel every year. Those are the ones we celebrate, the ones we look forward to discovering again and again as we carefully unpack them from cushions of foam or wads of tissue.

The decorated tree itself predates modern history, as the ancient Egyptians are thought to have adorned their homes with evergreen boughs during the winter solstice. Romans, Druids and Vikings are reputed as having done the same. The tree took on a Christian aura in 16th century Germany when fruits and candles were used to decorate during the holiday season.

Christmas trees initially were rejected by the Puritans when German immigrants brought them to the New World in the 18th and 19th centuries. But then, Queen Victoria made them fashionable. England’s beloved queen was pictured in front of a decorated Christmas tree with her German-born husband, Prince Albert, and their children in the mid-1800s; and suddenly, Christmas trees laden with baubles became all the rage.

from the previous year or to remember loved ones who have passed. And stories are told over steaming cups of cocoa, as the carols play and the fires crackle in homes across the country.

One special ornament this year traveled from Alabama to Washington, D.C., where it is part of the state trees display surrounding the national Christmas tree at the White House. Ria Antha, a ninth-grade student at Barton Academy for Advanced World Studies in Mobile, designed the ornament, which depicts the Children’s Harbor lighthouse on Lake Martin.

“It has a lake in the background, the beautiful skies, nature, all the beautiful things about Alabama,” Antha said in an NBC 15 news broadcast in Mobile.

The tree also features art by other Barton Academy students, including a painting of Auburn/Alabama football players in action and a flicker, the State bird.

Above and Right: Ria Antha chose the Children's Harbor Lighthouse as the art for an ornament that now is on display at President's Park in Washington, D.C.

Today, it is common custom to make or purchase Christmas ornaments that commemorate special events

The display at President’s Park is free to enter and will be open through December. Visit Barton Academy’s Facebook page for photos from the national tree lighting ceremony, and check out the website at thenationaltree.org.

On the following pages, we’ve collected photos of more local ornaments and Christmas decorations with their heartfelt stories. So drop a few marshmallows in that cup of hot cocoa and put another log on the fire before you turn the page to keep reading.

A White House Ornament

Love From Afar

Angela Steven's mother passed away when Angela was a teenager. "This lithophane ornament with her photo on it makes me feel like she's watching over her grandbabies and my wonderful husband, whom she never got to meet."

Phantomof The Opera

This glass ornament was gifted to Audra Spears by her parents when she was 16 years old. "I always find the perfect spot for him on our Christmas tree. It not only represents my love for the musical, but it reminds me of decorating the tree with my mom when I was younger."

Sew Sweet Stocking

Abigail Murphy's Nana taught her how to thread a needle and read a pattern. "For my parents' first Christmas, she made two green stockings. When I came along, she made the middle one for my first Christmas. The stockings are used every year, and Christmas wouldn't feel the same without them."

Our First Christmas

This very special ornament commemorates Jane and Scotty Howell's first Christmas together. "Scotty and I were married in 1975, and his aunt needlepointed this little ornament for our first Christmas together."

Remembering My Father

When Shannyn Meadows' Dad was in hospice care, she would sit on his porch and watch the hummingbirds. "It was so delightful during such a dark time in my life. Isaiah 45:3 speaks of treasures from God during darkness. This ornament reminds me to look for hidden treasures in difficult times."

An Ocean of Joy

This

It Takes a Village

Lori Baker began collecting pieces of her Christmas Village years ago and has slowly built a lovely selection with the Santa train, depot, houses, businesses and the workshop. "I look forward to putting them out every year."

Christmas Skirt

These were sewn by TPI General Manager Tippy Hunter's grandmother when Tippy was very young. "I got them when she passed away. Now, the green is under my daughter Emma's Christmas tree, and the red is under my son Hank's."

handpainted oyster shell was given to Cheryl Gainer McCall by a friend whose mother made it 30 years ago.

Letting Go Is Hard

Tara Wilson has many wonderful memories of Christmas in her grandparents' home. "My daughter gave me this snow globe with a picture of their house inside. The inscription says, 'How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.'"

Christmas Together

Harold Dunn made this ornament with his wife and children a few years. "We wanted to do something special for Christmas."

Dreams Do Come True

This Hallmark ornament makes TPI News Editor Kaitlin Fleming happy every time she sits down beside the tree. It represents her fiance and their engagement earlier this year (the wedding is in April!).

A Smart Cookie's Prize

Ellen Godfrey's favorite Christmas bauble started life as an ugly Christmas brooch. Mrs. Alva Hill, Godfrey's fifth-grade teacher, presented it as a prize in a trash pick up contest. "I was small and bullied, but she always called me her 'Smart Cookie.' I ran into her before she passed away, and I got the opportunity to tell her what she meant to me. I never forgot her."

Sailing Away

Her first Christmas at TPI, Magazine Editor-in-Chief Betsy Iler volunteered her husband - with his lovely architectural handwriting skills - to hand letter about 200 wooden ornaments for Lake Martin Living magazine. "He lettered them for several years and eventually forgave me. I don't volunteer him for anything anymore."

A Loved One Is Near

This cardinal ornament represents Crystal Pemberton's father, who passed away with lung cancer in 2019 at the age of 75.

A Daughter's Collection

Lisa White's Mom, who has passed away, knew how much she loved collecting Santas. She managed the Salvation Army store in Alexander City for years. Every year, her mother bought the Santas at the store and gifted them to her daughter. "In honor of my Mom, this Santa represents her and the joy she always gave me."

How to prep the holiday menu

Families and friends gathering around the table to share a meal is always a very special occasion. There is nothing better than having great food and fellowship, especially during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. With such events, much effort and time usually goes into preparing the food, achieving that perfect table setting and enjoying the bountiful feast. What a moment! But the joy and laughter and delicious meal could suddenly result in disaster if precautions are not taken regarding food safety. What is not invited to the meal is food poisoning, which can ruin the best of holidays.

GARDEN TALK

Collaboration, 9 million people in the U.S. get sick from contaminated food each year. Those illnesses result in about 1,300 deaths annually. Common culprits include bacteria, parasites and viruses. Symptoms range from mild to serious. They include upset stomach, abdominal cramps, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, fever and/or dehydration.

We have all likely personally suffered from food poisoning multiples times. And we can all say it is not any joy to the world. It may have not necessarily been from a family holiday gathering but could have been as a result of other eating events – potlucks, restaurants, take out, etc. Going through such sickness would make anyone a little more cautious about food safety.

According to the Interagency Food Safety Analytics

Harmful bacteria are the most common cause of foodborne illness. Contamination could come from many sources. Foods may have some bacteria on them when you buy them. Raw meat might become contaminated during slaughter. Fruits and vegetables could become contaminated when they are growing or when they are processed.

Handling food safely can help prevent foodborne illnesses. The United States Department of Agriculture recommends these four basic steps for food safety at home:

n Clean: Always wash food, hands, counters and utensils.

n Separate: Keep raw foods to themselves. Germs can spread from one food to another.

Dani Reams

Extending Knowledge, Improving Lives

Ensure a Healthy Feast Clockwise from Left: Follow food safety guidelines when storing, thawing and roasting that prize turkey or other main dish; Wash hands for 20 seconds before switching from one food preparation project to another; Don't assign salads or vegetable dishes to anyone who is traveling long distance for the gathering.

n Cook: Foods need to get hot and stay hot. Heat kills germs. n Chill: Put fresh food in the refrigerator right away.

In the grocery store, avoid cans with dented seams or that have dents with sharp edges. Also avoid cans that are bulging. Jars that have cracks or loose lids should be avoided, as they may be contaminated. Other packaging should be in good repair. Remember, if the container is compromised, it may not adequately protect the food inside. Check packages to be sure food hasn’t reached its expiration date.

Food contamination could also happen in your kitchen. It is important to store raw food separately from ready-to-eat food. Raw animal products should be stored securely, so they do not drip onto or contaminate other foods. Cross contamination could also occur when equipment and utensils are used for different items without being properly washed in between uses.

Bacteria multiply quickly under certain conditions. Remember the two-hour rule: Avoid leaving perishable foods at room temperature longer than two hours – one hour in warmer seasons when the temperature is over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The two hours includes preparation time for foods that aren’t cooked or foods that need more preparation steps after cooking.

Although temperature control is important, there are other ways to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Many viruses are able to survive normal cooking temperatures, so temperature control is not enough. The best way to avoid a viral illness is to practice good personal hygiene.

Hand washing is a very important part of personal hygiene and could be very helpful if you follow the correct steps. The first step is to wet your hands and apply enough soap for a good

lather; then, scrub hands for at least 20 seconds

away the soap under

water. Make sure not to forget areas like knuckles, thumbs, the back of hands and fingertips, as these are often overlooked and may harbor pathogens. Hands should be washed before preparing food and at any time that hands may have been contaminated. Of course, hands should also be washed before serving and eating. You could even make this a game with children as you come up with silly songs to take up the 20 seconds. Afterwards, hands should be dried with a clean towel.

It is also important to keep food safety in mind if you are taking food to an event. People traveling long distances should consider bringing non-perishable items, such as rolls, breads and cookies. Those traveling half an hour or less could take steps to safely bring perishable foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products or foods containing these items. Nearer relatives also should provide salads, relishes and vegetables.

When traveling with food, keep hot foods hot (140 degrees Fahrenheit or higher) by wrapping them in foil, and then in heavy towels. Or carry them in insulated wrappers, bags or containers designed to keep food hot. Place cold foods in a cooler with ice or freezer packs or an insulated container with a cold pack, so they remain at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, especially if traveling longer than half an hour.

On arrival, place cold foods in the refrigerator. Place hot foods in an oven hot enough to keep food at an internal temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit or above; use a food thermometer to assure the food stays at a safe internal temperature. Plan to serve foods shortly after guests have arrived.

Another possibility is to carry all perishable food in an ice chest and come early. Then prepare the dishes after you arrive.

Take precaution in regards to food safety this holiday season. Just doing the little things will ensure your event is a memorable one for all the right reasons. We all love the food and love to eat wonderful food, but getting sick afterwards due to food poisoning is not on anyone’s menu.

Contact the Tallapoosa County Extension office for more assistance or visit us online at aces.edu/Tallapoosa.

Dani Reams is Regional Extension Agent for Food Safety serving East Central Alabama.

before rinsing

running

Mayor on the Move

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

Growth and infrastructure are high up on the radar for newly appointed Tallassee mayor, Sarah Morgan Hill. With a bright future in mind for Tallassee, Hill hopes to improve and build upon the commerce without losing the smalltown charm the city’s known for.

Hill has been part of the Tallassee community since she was 14 years old, only ever moving away when it came time to attend college. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in political science and a management master’s degree from Troy University before moving back to Tallassee.

“I actually live in the house that my dad bought in 2007. After he passed away, we inherited the house, and we still live there, in the middle of town,” Hill said.

Hill is now married to her husband of eight years, Jake, and they have two daughters, Meredith and Cadence. Hill and her family love the Tallassee and Lake Martin area. Spending time with her family has always been important to Hill, and she believes there’s no better way than the lake.

“We love to spend time on our boat at Lake Martin. We actually have a boat there, and we’ve had it for several years. We also bought our girls a Sea-Doo. When we have free time, we go around and do things they want to do,” she said.

When Hill isn’t spending time with her family or tending to her mayoral duties, she’s working on projects for her other job, event and project management for out-of-state clients. Before taking on the position of Tallassee’s mayor, Hill was elected to a six-year term on the Tallassee City Council, from 2016 to 2022.

“I chose to run for city council in 2016 to help the City redevelop its infrastructure and put itself on the path to grow, so the citizens could enjoy more recreational opportunities, be safe and also have their properties be worth more,” Hill explained.

She is thankful for the opportunity to serve her community in a new way, and she never dreamed her career path would lead to this position. Now that it has, she’s excited to bring more to the Tallassee community.

“I believe we are a small town on the move. We have a lot of projects that are going on currently that are going to place us in a similar growth pattern to Wetumpka’s scene in the last few years. With this mill project, with

the downtown streetscape project and some of our utilities projects, we’re setting ourselves up for success,” she said.

Hill’s vision for Tallassee includes structured growth, and with a number of projects already in full swing, Tallassee could see some exciting changes over the next few years.

“I’d like to have structured growth. We certainly don’t want to grow in a way that is not smart. We do have a lot of potential; I mean, we are the infrastructure hub of Elmore County. Based on our location to the lake and with the river, we have a lot of recreational opportunities afforded to us,” Hill explained.

She’s excited about how far the city has come and how many changes have already happened under her direction.

“Our downtown, we’re actually about to let out the bid for the streetscape project and, hopefully, have it opened in December so that they can start working on that first quarter. ALDOT has approved a contract for repainting the Fitzpatrick Bridge. We are also really excited about the work and the progress that’s been done at the old mill site, Mount Vernon Mills. Seeing progress every day is great,” she said.

Bringing more opportunity to Tallassee residents is high on Hill’s priority list, and with time, she hopes to see a positive change in growth and infrastructure around the city. One of Hill’s most treasured accomplishments to date is the mill property improvement project. An investment firm is taking over the project to clean up the hefty rubble that was left after a 2016 fire.

“We have a lot of hardworking, industrious people here. We have a lot of ways that we can focus our growth, so focused, sustainable growth is my No. 1 priority for Tallassee,” Hill said.

Tallassee’s new mayor is looking forward to serving the people of Tallassee, and hopefully, bringing even more opportunities and growth to this charming Southern town. For more information about upcoming Tallassee projects and events, visit the city’s website at tallassee.gov.

Structuring Growth Toward Goals

Sarah Morgan Hill is excited about a new streetscape project, progress at Mount Vernon Mills, repainting the Fitzpatrick Bridge and more revitalization projects under way in Tallassee.

Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Cranberry Bread with Orange Glaze

Batter Ingredients

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup milk

Zest 1 large orange (reserve 1 teaspoon for glaze)

1/4 cup orange juice

6 tablespoons butter, softened 3/4 cup sugar

2 large eggs

1-1/2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed and patted dry

1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Optional- Add more cranberries and orange slices to the top for garnish.

Orange Glaze Ingredients

1 cup powdered sugar

1-1/2 tablespoon orange juice, more if needed to thin

1 teaspoon orange zest

Bread Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour a l9-inch by 5-inch loaf pan.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

Combine milk, orange zest (reserving 1 teaspoon for the glaze) and orange juice in a small bowl. Set aside.

Use a stand mixer, if available, to cream butter and sugar at medium speed for three minutes. Beat in two large eggs, mixing well. Add flour mixture in two parts, alternating with the milk mixture and mixing on medium/ low speed until incorporated with each addition. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.

Toss cranberries with 1/2 tablespoon flour; then, fold them into the batter, stirring until incorporated. Spread batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes at 350 degrees until golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes; then, run a knife around the edges and transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before glazing.

Glaze Directions

In a separate bowl, stir together powdered sugar, orange juice and reserved zest. Stir until smooth. It should have a drizzling consistency. Add more orange juice to thin it out or powdered sugar to make it thicker, if needed.

Sweet orange juice and tart cranberries come together to make this festive cranberry-orange bread. One of my favorite recipes for the Christmas season, this bread is moist, not too sweet, and incredibly flavorful. Everything about it is easy and delicious. I enjoy it with a cup of coffee in the mornings and sometimes in the evenings as dessert.

I squeeze the orange juice and grate the zest, so my bread is packed full of freshness and orange flavor. Adding a simple powdered sugar glaze over the top gives this loaf the right amount of sweetness.

GOOD EATS

Gina Abernathy

Bright berries lend a festive look, so this bread would make a nice gift for the holidays. In addition, your friends, coworkers and neighbors then could share it with their families.

Tips and Variations

n With cranberries in season, I like to buy a few extra bags for the freezer. That way, I can make this wonderful treat any time I choose. n Toss in some pecans or walnuts to the recipe to add to the texture.

n Fresh or frozen cranberries will work nicely. n Zest the orange before juicing.  n Bake on the middle oven rack for even cooking. n Check for doneness by inserting a wooden toothpick near the center of the loaf. It should come out clean. n I prefer to store my loaf in the refrigerator, so the glaze doesn’t get soft, but it will be fine stored at room temperature for several days.

n Giving this bread as a gift? Wrap it in a clear food-safe bag with festive tissue paper, a bow and a gift tag.

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

The time is right for a conversation

STORY BY BETSY ILER

The holidays could be a good time to talk with parents about their goals for retirement and long term living, while they are active and vibrant and not on the cusp of an aging crisis. What holds adult children back from those conversations is that no one wants to think about aging, said Kelly Adams, a certified senior advisor with Alexander City’s Beyond Home Care.

“What are their goals? What are their finances? We need to have these conversations with our parents early on to make sure we can honor their goals and wishes. We need to have those conversations around the table and not the hospital bed. Without talking about it, adult children have to make decisions that they are not prepared to make,” Adams explained. “And this time of year is when we see the need. Maybe Mom and Dad seemed fine over the phone, but when the family visits, they see that their medications are a mess or there’s a bill that didn’t get paid and the food in the refrigerator is expired and has been for a long time.”

Even for younger parents, this is a good time of year to ask questions, Adams said.

“Just say, ‘Hey, can we talk a little about your plans? Do you want to stay in your home? Downsize? What are your goals for end-of-life care? Those are hard things to talk about, but we need to talk about them,” she said.

And if the red flags are already there, it might be time for a full assessment. Perhaps it’s too early for a fulltime caregiver, but some monitoring could be beneficial.

The biggest mistake families make is that they wait too long to get help, said Diana Roman, regional manager with Live Oak Caregivers, a family-owned company

in Atlanta that is establishing services in Tallapoosa County.

“By the time the family starts talking about moving Mom into a senior living apartment, she might not be well enough to acclimate to being there. She can’t make friends if she isn’t well enough to get out and be social,” Roman said. “Be proactive. She could be looking at the last 10 years of life. Let her enjoy it.”

Have a conversation with parents about their retirement and long term care goals now, so those decisions won't need to be made during a crisis.

That might mean that, for now, Mom might only need someone to come in once a month or so to check on her, perhaps to see that she is eating well or is managing her weight. Maybe she needs someone to help her choose healthy, easy-to-prepare meal items at the grocery store. Such occasional caregiving services could keep parents healthier for longer, allowing them to remain active and purposeful.

Seniors seek purpose, Roman said.

“They have worked all their lives. They have knowledge and experience to share, and they want to share it for as long as they can,” she said. “Sometimes, having a caregiver allows them to do that.”

Ideally, the process begins with those dinner table conversations, said Adams, who recommends an assessment and the creation of a care plan.

“Most of the time, people don’t know where to start. They don’t realize there are things they need to check off. Yes, we provide services, but we have started doing a lot of other things to bridge the gap between what a family

Talk About Retirement Goals

needs to know and actually bringing someone into the home,” Adams said.

It’s a move toward a consulting service addressing professional solutions for aging. The need in the Lake Martin area is great and can be expected to grow, she said.

“When I moved to the area six years ago, I looked at the census and saw that the median age is higher here than anywhere else in the state. There are more nursing home beds here than anywhere else in the state. It is an interesting pocket for aging,” Adams said.

As the lake continues to draw a retiring population, that trend is likely to continue, and the geriatric medicine facility now under construction at Russell Medical underscores the trend.

“I don’t think most people realize what that facility is going to do for this area. To have that resource here and be able to recruit specialists in geriatric psychology, nephrology and other medical services for the aging – that is huge. To have that resource is going to be incredible for this area. These are better resources than some of the larger cities around us are providing,” she explained.

As people realize they could come here to retire and stay here, the trend is likely to increase, and the need for caregivers could increase as well, Roman said.

Caregivers do not provide medical services, she explained, but they perform basic physical care services, such as helping clients transfer from the bed to the chair, helping them dress, bathe or use the bathroom. Caregivers might also assist with light housekeeping, but they are not the maid service. They might cook light meals, provide transportation or help a client continue involvement in a hobby, like gardening.

While certified nursing assistant training could be very helpful in a caregiver, both Roman and Adams said it isn’t necessary.

“We have on site training,” said Kirsten Robinson, a client support specialist with Beyond Home Care. “We use a system that includes online and in-person training and shadowing a main caregiver. And we work with home health nurses for specific tasks for clients.”

“For the good ones, caregiving is a calling, and they are priceless,” Roman said. “We now have about 300 caregivers with Live Oak, and we meet about each one and rate them from five to one, with five being the highest. I won’t place anyone who is a three or under.

“We are not a staffing organization. We interview each client and family and match a caregiver to that client, creating a team around the client.”

But care in aging also is very expensive, Adams noted. “Most people plan to retire, to some degree, but the cost of aging is so much more than retirement. We don’t often think about that when we are saving for retirement,” she said.

Many caregiver companies, including Live Oak and Beyond Home Care, are private pay or long term care insurance only, though Live Oak Caregivers does file paperwork for the Veterans Administration. They don’t accept Medicare or Medicaid patients because the payout doesn’t cover their costs of doing business. So costs are another matter to consider and talk about around the table.

“What we’re doing is helping adult children prepare to care for their parents. If you know what to look for and are organized, you can manage it. It’s the crisis that throws everybody for a loop,” Adams said. “So have the conversations.”

When The Time for Help Comes Top: Caregivers could help parents live healthier and more comfortable lives for longer; Bottom: In addition to physical assistance, caregivers often provide emotional support.

Respawn Arcade

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS

Jessica Duncan and her husband, James, had a space problem before they opened Respawn Arcade, Pinball and E-Sports in September at 148 Calhoun St. in Alexander City. They had filled their entire basement with a massive arcade collection. They had designated their basement as the video game hub before the collection outgrew a spare room in their home.

Duncan, a proud Wetumpka native, and James, an Alexander City native, married in 2014 and decided to settle down in Alexander City, James’ hometown. Along with their new business arcade venture, both Duncan and James hold full time jobs in the area.

“I teach in the EMS department at Southern Union in Opelika, and my husband is a firefighter and paramedic

with the Alexander City Fire Department,” Duncan said.

The couple started collecting arcade machines in 2015, and their collection is still growing. They already purchased a pinball machine just this month.

With encouragement from friends and family, the couple opened the arcade in town, where their collection is not only on display but also is operational.

“Every person that ever came over to our basement to hang out and play games said we needed to open an arcade, but we weren’t sure because we have full time jobs and kids,” Duncan said. “We’re just busy. We started talking about it though and kind of looking at the future. We just happened into this place, and it worked out,.” Duncan said.

Before opening the arcade was even on the couple’s radar, they played the games with their son. According to Duncan, instead of flipping a coin as others might to settle a question, in this family, they will often challenge each other to a game or two.

“We’ve always liked to play games. We’ve collected standard video games for pretty much our entire lives, and we played arcade games growing up. We always assumed they were really expensive; and then, one day, my husband was scrolling through Craigslist looking for something else when he found an arcade game. It was broken, but it was in our price range. He’s very mechanically inclined. He’s good with fixing stuff, so he started researching. We ended up buying it, and he was able to fix it,” Duncan said.

After their first arcade machine purchase, the couple continued to shop arcade machines online on platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.

“We just started looking from then on out. We thought they were thousands of dollars, but we found that they were more in the price range of a few hundred dollars. Little did we know that there were lots more for lots more money, but we started looking for ones that were broken or messed up. We would purchase them and fix them up. We got to the point where we filled the room that the machines were originally sitting in, so we cleared out the basement,” Duncan explained.

When coming across machines on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace, the couple found they had to move fast to snatch up the machines. With a growing number of collectors, moving fast is key in obtaining a new piece.

“Back when gas was a lot cheaper, we wouldn’t think anything of hopping in the car and driving to the Atlanta area and pick one up. It wasn’t a big deal back then,” she explained.

Through time spent searching for games, they connected with other collectors and sellers. These connections have proven a good thing for them, leading them to even more games.

“A friend of ours actually vends them still. He gets lots of machines from all over the country. He’s from Goodwater, and

When Games are Your Hobbby

Previous Pages: Respawn Arcade occupies a former pawn shop on Calhoun Street; Clockwise from Above Left: Jessica and James Duncan have been collecting pinball and video games for more than six years; They hope to host and stream e-sports game competitions; pinball machines are as popular today as they were 50 years ago.

there are sellers all over,” Duncan said. “Nowadays, it’s a lot harder than it once was to come by these types of games. People are more interested in it, and prices have gone up a lot. There’s a pinball machine we bought for $4,000, an excellent price for that type of machine; now, its value is nearing $6,500. The value of these machines has gone up, which makes it hard to find a cheap machine. This hobby is not for the lighthearted. If you’re patient, deals can be made, but you have to be ready to go right then,” she explained. Opening Respawn seemed like the perfect way to display the couple’s collection. With endless games at their fingertips, visitors could find a variety of great ways to spend some time with friends and family.

In addition, the Duncans hope to host e-sports competitions as the business grows, reaching an even bigger crowd. E-sports are electronic sports competitions wherein multiple players battle it out on some of the most thrilling games. With a growing popularity surrounding e-sports, this global audience continues to grow as a fun way for gamers to compete against each other. Some e-sports competitions are even live-streamed, which has only attracted more gamers and audience members alike.

The growing popularity of e-sports competitions is known to draw crowds from all over. With plans to host these events in the future at the arcade, tourism numbers in the area could increase.

The arcade operates from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays; and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturdays. Respawn is closed on Sundays.

Be Merry Shop Local

Investment Strategy

GRAPHIC COURTESY OF J.P. MORGAN ASSET MANAGEMENT

After years of falling rates (specifically since the early ’80s), we are now in a rising rate environment. If you understand how bonds work, you know that when interest rates go up, the value of existing bonds decline; when interest rates decline, the value of existing bonds goes up. A good picture for bonds is a seesaw.

You have to go back over 40 years to see a worse bond market than the one we have experienced so far this year. Bonds are traditionally thought of as ballast to a portfolio. When stocks have a tough year, the bonds are there to dampen the volatility. This makes sense in a falling interest rate environment or a stable rate environment, but when interest rates increase at the pace they have this year, that ballast begins leaking and becomes less stable.

The chart accompanying this article shows the return for a 60/40 portfolio invested 60 percent in the S&P 500 Total Return Index and 40 percent invested in Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Total Bond Return Index, going back to 1980. The reason this chart was chosen is due to a large number of retirees having similar asset allocation in their portfolios.

Notice first that fixed income return is positive

almost every year over this timeframe with decent returns as shown by the blue shading. Secondly, in years where the green part of the bar is negative (stocks), the gray part (bonds) tends to be positive. In 2022, you see both the green and blue severely in the negative.

Going back to 1980, there isn’t another year that looks anywhere near this year regarding equity and fixed income in the negative. Thus far, that makes 2022 one of the worst years in the last 40 regarding returns. The bond portion can be explained with the rise in interest rates, as discussed earlier. Over the last several years, bonds became return-free risk, mainly due to interest rate sensitivity.

Today, not all is bad. After all, the world wasn’t built by pessimists. For the first time in quite some period of time, bonds are actually offering respectable yields with decent yield to maturity. Government bonds, backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, are now yielding over 4 percent for the two-year period, as I write this article. Times have definitely changed quickly. The question then becomes, is now a good time to buy bonds?

The 60/40 portfolio remains a bellweather

The way I would answer this question is: It is a far better time to buy them than a couple years ago, due to where rates are today. The interest rate risk on bonds has decreased. Yields today are far more respectable, and if inflation comes down to the Fed’s target, bonds bought today could have a real return (net return after factoring in inflation), which is something that has been amiss.

MONEY MATTERS

~ Lee Williams offers products and services using the following business names: Lee Williams – insurance and financial services | Ameritas Investment Company, LLC (AIC), Member FINRA/ SIPC – securities and investments | The Ascent Group, LLC – investment advisory services. AIC is not affiliated with Lee Williams or The Ascent Group, LLC.

All in all, the bond market is far better than it was the last several years, and the 60/40 portfolio that has been the bellweather for retirees for so long is looking to be better positioned for future volatility.

On a side note, for those who have insurance products, like annuities and certain life products, cap rates are seeing upward adjustments across many companies, which can favor future returns. Now may be a good time to review these with your advisor. As always, consult your trusted advisor or financial professional for what makes the most sense for your personal plan and know that in financial services, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all model.

Information gathered from sources believed to be reliable; however, their accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Actual prices may vary. Securities are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal. This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security. While we believe the information provided is reliable, we cannot guarantee its accuracy. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Please consult your financial professional before making any investment decision.

Lee Williams

FEATURED EVENT Calendar

Register now for free signing classes at the library

STORY BY BETSY ILER

For some, talking with their hands is more than an idiosyncrasy – it’s their primary language. Sign language also one of the easiest languages to pick up, at least for the basics, and it has many applications for all ages in our area.

“You can learn the basic finger lettering and be able to communicate at that level,” said Betty Hare, a retired special education teacher who now teaches sign language through OLLI, Auburn University’s adult education arm.

Hare will conduct a free four-session sign language class at Amelia M. Russell Library next month. The first class will take place at 2 p.m. on Jan. 10, with subsequent classes set for 2 p.m. on the following three Tuesdays.

“We’ll learn the basics, and then the direction the class takes will depend on what the participants want to learn,” Hare explained. “They are one-and-a-half-hour classes.”

Hare became interested in sign language when her 18-month-old niece lost her hearing after a bout with spinal meningitis. She went back to college as an adult and majored in special education, earning her master’s degree as well. She has taught occasional sign language classes in Alexander City since 2019. There is more interest in the classes here than in Auburn, she said, noting our

proximity to the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind near Sylacauga. In addition, she said the aging population has shown an interest in sign language as a supplement to communication during and after hearing loss.

“In one of the first classes, a homeschool group came. Those kids were so enthusiastic. And they were fast learners,” Hare said. “In another class, one lady was very involved with her church, so we looked up religious signs. There was a man who worked for the City in one class. He needed to know sign language, so he could communicate with deaf residents. He wanted to know phrases like, ‘You need to mow your yard.’”

This class is an introduction to sign language, Hare said. She will cover finger lettering of the alphabet, the numbers and some favorite songs of the participants, including the signs for the popular Happy Birthday song. The class also will explore resources for sign language and the deaf community.

Class size is limited, and while there is no cost for the program, participants must sign up in advance at the library. Email amrl@alexandercity.gov to reserve a seat in the class. And, Hare said, bring the words to your favorite song.

Dec. 18 Gospel Hour

Come by the Dadeville Performing Arts Center from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. for a Gospel Hour concert. Admission is $10. Kids admitted free. Visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com for details.

Dec. 19

The Ukaladies present Christmas Favorites

This delightful group of women will share thier music in a 45-minute program that will include a selection of favorite Christmas songs. Stop by after work for this free event. Please tip the performers.

Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve at Zazu’s Verandah

Drop in at Zazu’s Verandah on the beautiful courthouse square in Dadeville from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. to celebrate the New Year with The Music Legends. Wine and beer bar. Please tip the musicians. For more information, email info@zazusverandah.com.

Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Night Hike

Meet at the Adamson Road Trailhead for a hike through Russell Forest at the last sunset of the year. Bring the kids along as Naturalist Marianne guides this hike to the top of Heaven Hill. She’ll discuss all the changes that have taken place for wildlife through the year, and everyone will have an opportunity to talk about their own successes from the last year, as well as plan successes for 2023. As the sun sets on 2022, there will be snacks and a toast. This hiking experience is appropriate for ages 5 and up. The fee for this program is $10. Register in advance at 256-496-2710.

Jan. 10

Goldpine

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

Jan. 14

LMYP Polar Plunge

Ready to get cold and wet at this year’s Lake Martin Young Professionals Polar Plunge? This annual event celebrates the New Year on the grounds

LAKE REGION EVENTS

at Kowaliga Restaurant with costume prizes, great food, beer, music and the cold water swim in Lake Martin. There’s also a Dash for the Cash. But you don’t have to get in the water to have a great time. Watching from the shoreline is allowed. For details, call Liz Holland at 256-234-3461.

Jan. 18-March 8

Beginners Quilting Lessons

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

Jan. 19-22

Lakeside Marina Boat Event

There will be food, fun, entertainment and giveaways at this year’s annual boat event at Lakeside Marina. In addition, the marina will host a customer appreciation celebration at New Water Farms with Happy Hour starting at 5:15 p.m. and dinner served at 6:30 p.m. Dress for the dinner is lakecasual. Text 256-307-5973 to RSVP for the dinner by Jan. 6.

Feb. 15

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

Season-long Events Artists Association of Central Alabama

AACA artists meet on the third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex grounds

with a general meeting followed by open studio. Club dues are $20 for the year.

Dulcimer Club

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

Wellborn Musclecar Museum

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

Rhythm-Antics

Join this music exploration course from 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. on Thursdays at Dadeville Performing Arts Center with Kim Walls. For all levels and ages, this class will teach students to read, write, play, sing and move to music rhythms. No need to know how to read music to start. The class will use a variety of classroom instruments, such as percussion, recorders and hand bells. No materials necessary. Email kim. walls@dadevilleperformingartscenter. com.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

Volunteers in Alexander City and Dadeville are encouraged to participate in community partnership cleanups every month. In Alexander City, the cleanups are held on the third Saturday of the month. Meet at Our Town Volunteer Fire Department at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. Contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289 for more information. In Dadeville, the monthly

LAKE REGION EVENTS

cleanup is held on the second Saturday of the month. Pick up pickers and bags at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall. There also will be a trash bag drop-off on site. Call Mickey Forbus at 334-329-0905.

Fiber Fridays

Bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint, embroidery and other fiber art projects to The Yarn Shop Around the Corner in Dadeville from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fridays to meet fellow fiber artisans, share tips and techniques.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on state Route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-8572008 for more information.

Amateur Radio Club

The Lake Martin Area Amateur Radio Club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Senior Activity Center at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City, with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. Contact Michael Courtney at 256-8257766 or Mike Smith at 256-750-5710.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

Naturalist Marianne fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl. For subject matter, dates and times, visit RussellLands. com/blog/events.

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.

Library Storytime in Dadeville

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

Children’s Library in Alexander City

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

Marinas

Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

3. River North Marina 256-397-1500

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

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

19 Russell Marine Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

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

Restaurants & Venues

8 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Acapulco Mexican Grill 334-283-2725

2867 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee, AL 36078

Business & Shopping

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

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

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

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853

The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

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

8610 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

Dark Insurance 256-234-5026

www.darkinsuranceagency.com

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010

Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

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

Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847

21300 Hwy. 280, Dadeville, AL 36853

Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717

8421 Hwy. 50, Dadeville, AL 36853

Hotels & Lodges

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

Churches

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

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

Dock Builders

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

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

Recreation & Entertainment

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

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ALEXANDER CITY

Robinson Iron

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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

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Warren Appliance MainStreet Family Care Grace's Flowers Koon's Korner

Larry's General Merchandise Daylight Donuts

Alfa

Valley Bank - 280 Pricare

Temple Medical AllState

BB&T Bank

Hometown Pharmacy

Lake Martin Home Health

Allen's Food Mart (Exxon)

Karen Channell - State Farm Insurance

North Lake Condo River Bend Store

River North Marina Lake Martin Building Supply Petro

Sho'Nuff BBQ

Hair Design

Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture

Longleaf Antique Mall Playhouse Cinemas

Chamber of Commerce

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Re/Max Around the Lake City Hall

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Marathon - 280

Renfroe's Market

Russell Medical Center

Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors

Koon's II Tallapoosa Ford

Dylan Johnson - Country Financial Holley's Home Furniture

Jackson's Drugs

Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark

The Sure Shot Shell - 280

Big B Bar-B-Que

Russell Do It Center

Russell Home Decor Holman Floor

Satterfield Inc.

Grain & Leaf, Bottles & Cigars

Tippy Canoe

Love Lake Martin Real Estate Office

Wind Creek Gate

Wind Creek Store Willow Point Office

Willow Point Country Club Smith Marina Nails

Kowaliga Marina Children's Harbor Catherine's Market

Russell Lands Corporate Office

Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center

SpringHouse Ridge Club Ridge Marina

HACKNEYVILLE

Hackneyville Water Authority NEW SITE

Piggly Wiggly - New Site Foodland DADEVILLE

Chamber of Commerce

Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery Root 49 Salon

Ellaby Boutique, LLC Alabama Power Siggers

Siggers Barbershop Fusion Cafe

Dadeville Library

At the Beauty Shop Dadeville Courthouse Payne's Furniture PNC Bank

Valley Bank McKelvey Chevrolet Renfroe's Market Foshee's Boat Doc Lakeshore Pharmacy

Russell Building Supply Lakay's Tallapoosa Nutrition Sweet Pickins Century 21 - Rhonda Gaskins Farmers & Merchants Bank Jim's Pharmacy Poplar Dawgs Still Waters Country Club Still Waters Home Association Russell Lands Realty Fuller Realty Harbor Pointe Oskar's Aronov Realty Lake Martin Creekside Lodge Blue Creek Marina

Lakeside Marina

Niffers

Hwy 50 Eagle

Millstone Japanese Maple Nursery Lakeside Mercantile

Walnut Hill Chuck's Marina

Deep Water Docks

Lake Martin Pizza CAMP HILL Link Gas Station

EQUALITY

Five Star Plantation

Equality Food Mart

Southern Star Parker Creek Marina Charles Borden

ECLECTIC

Lake Breeze Realty Offshore Marina

Lake Martin Mini Mall

Corner Stone Coffee Co.

Lake Martin Dock Company

Cotton's Alabama Barbecue Russell Do It Center

Johnson Furniture

WOW Catering LLC

Eclectic Library

Real Island Marina Anchor Bay Marina Wetumpka

Wetumpka Herald Office

Tallassee Marathon Tallassee Eagle Tallassee Chamber Parris Mullins Jr. O.D.

Get Lake Martin Living delivered to your mailbox for just $50 per year. To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

Abernathy Farm Supply 8

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Kowaliga Whole Health 49

Lake Martin Dock 25, 46

Lake Martin Wedding & Events 31

Medhealth 5

MidAlabama Fireworks 51

Nail's Convenience Store 31

National Village 13

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery 12

Precise Pressure Washing 46

Prime Home Health 8

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River Region Dermatology 49

Russell Medical 52

Salvation Army 49 Satterfield, Inc 5

Southern Sash 12

Southern Star Farms 31

Sunrise Docks 51

Tallassee Health & Rehab 47

The Well Counseling Center 31

The Wright Design 31 TowBoatUS 43 Tree Man 49 US Bank 48

Vacation Rental Management 49 Will Tampling, Keller Williams 47

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*Standard maximum of 10 acres; however parcels not exceeding 20 acres may be considered if typical for the area and supported by acceptable appraisal valuation. Lot loans are not intended for investment or speculation purposes. Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loans amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products

Geoff Hall

Mortgage Loan Officer

Construction loans Get financing that includes your construction loan and your mortgage – all in one. That’s one closing and one set of fees. Plus, make interest only payments during the construction of your home. Choose from fixed- or adjustable-rate construction loan options. and services. Mortgage, Home Equity and Credit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2019 U.S. Bank 257701c 10/19

404.267.7775 office 404.662.6604 cell geoff.hall@usbank.com NMLS #: 544471

Learn Something New

This is the last column of the year, and I believe in looking forward. As a post-pandemic society, we have been up against plenty of economic and political challenges. I, for one, am tired of negative noise. There is opportunity everywhere. There are so many deals to be made. Whether it is a business deal, a real estate sale or investment or a deal with yourself.

Over Thanksgiving, I challenged my two nieces to a pie baking contest – live and on site in my in-laws kitchen (Jane and Scotty Howell). We made a grand mess and used rolling pins. Little 5-year-old August was on mine and John’s team, and her 9-year-old sister, Isla, was on her parents’ team. The adults had more fun than the kids, largely because it was our first attempt at tackling homemade pie crust. Homemade pie crust is not for the faint of heart. One slight misstep, and it’s a bust. I hit a homerun on the pie crust.

Culture Shock

Lacey Howell

What deals do you want to make in 2023? I am asking myself this, too. It’s time to get creative and specific. I’ll be honest; I have checked a lot of boxes on my list the last couple of years. Sometimes, it’s challenging to decide what new boxes to add. There are the stereotypical weight loss and make-moremoney goals we all explore. That newyear-new-me mentality that comes around every January. I have learned that greater success is found by breaking those big goals down to daily goals. Instead of saying, “I want to drop 10 pounds,” rephrase that to “I am going to walk 30 minutes everyday.”

I’ll quote Jesse Itzler’s idealism here by referencing his Daily Vitamins. I challenge you to make a list of seven to 10 things you need to do daily to be happy or to reach a long term goal.

I believe the most important thing you can do for yourself is to learn something new. Never quit learning.

Team Howell went one step further –because why not? Our caramel pear pie included homemade caramel. It looked simple. I was steady stirring the sugar while on the phone with a girlfriend, but when I lifted my plastic spoon from the sugar concoction, it was half gone. Seriously.

I screamed and hung up on my friend. No plastic was consumed. John took over and successfully made a second batch with a wooden spoon. Lessons learned.

Stay tuned, we are going to do a Howell Christmas Cookie Bake Off and swap kids. Emotions will run high, and wine glasses will be full. I’ll have a full report for you in the January column.

Cheers to a New Year, y’all. Learn new things. Don’t be afraid to stink at something new and make it count.

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

Learn Something New Every Day

Homemade piecrust is not easy, but Isla embraced the pie-making challenge.

Daily Checklist

✔ Daily Walk/Fitness goal (I say find a way to break a sweat everyday).

✔ Diet (Instead of a restriction, vow to cook one meal at home daily).

✔ Make your bed.

✔ Cuddle something (whether it’s your person or your dog). ✔ Read (anything)!

✔ Call a friend.

✔ Laugh (if nothing else, watch Kenny Dean’s silly self on The Front Porch).

✔ Create a good vibe (Play music/light a candle).

✔ Journal (dump out those feelings).

✔ Try or learn something new.

Sleep... in Heavenly Peace