The South’s Best Kept Secret
Alexander City and Lake Martin Area
The Lake Martin area is the jewel of Alabama, drawing visitors from across the nation to live, work and play in Alexander City and at the lake. Whether you are here to drink in the retreat offered by a second home, live your dream of retirement on the water or join the local workforce, you couldn’t have picked a better place than Alexander City and the Lake Martin area to call your new home. Welcome to
The South’s Best Kept Secret.
Lake Martin celebrates the Fourth
Photo by Kenneth Boone
Welcome to Alexander City
Vice President Special Events & Sponsorship
Welcome to Alexander City, Alabama! My name is Kim Dunn, and as Vice President of Special Events & Sponsorship for the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and a native of Alexander City, I am happy to have the opportunity to introduce you to our town. Whether you are joining our community permanently, living here part time, visiting a while or just passing through, we are glad to have you.
Alexander City and the Lake Martin area have a ton to offer and boundless opportunity. Serving as the crown jewel of the area is Lake Martin, which boasts nearly 900 miles of beautiful shoreline and more than 40,000 acres of pristine, deep water.
Lake Martin’s unrivaled beauty and recreation have earned it the title of Alabama’s Freshwater Coast. In a state known for its coastal region along the Gulf of Mexico, Lake Martin brings the on-the-water fun with a freshwater flare.
Fed by the Tallapoosa River and numerous accessible creeks and streams, the Lake Martin lifestyle extends beyond the shorelines and reaches into the surrounding areas through fishing, hiking, kayaking and canoeing, trail riding, camping, agriculture and more experiences that have been enjoyed for generations of locals and visitors alike.
Not only does Lake Martin provide abundant recreational and hospitality offerings, but also it is a key driver of economic and business activity through the residential construction industry. A wide array of skilled trades is in high demand to fuel development activity, and the demand in those areas will continue as new developments occur and others require ongoing maintenance and service. In addition, tourists and part-time resident consumers are added to the mix of full-time residents to create a diverse base for businesses in retail, restaurants and professional services.
We continue to see advances in other strategic areas, such as healthcare and education. Russell Medical, a top-rated, not-for-profit acute care facility and part of the UAB Health System, is finaliz -
Vice President Marketing & Membership
ing facility expansions and adding new services to enhance the healthcare offerings in the area.
The Alexander City and the Tallapoosa County school systems have recently received long-term financial support, enabling capital projects for new schools and facility updates.
The City of Alexander City continues to make investments in city services and infrastructure improvements and expansions, providing residents with reliable services while positioning untapped areas for growth.
Entertainment and recreational offerings are seemingly nonstop with a vibrant live music scene around the area, including community festivals, arts, special events, youth sports and activities for all ages.
When you add it all up, I guess it does make for something worth knowing about – a community that features one of the most treasured lakes in the United States, a diverse economy, major investment in education and healthcare, amazing outdoor recreation, vibrant entertainment options and all of that in a centralized location.
The South’s Best Kept Secret might not be a secret for much longer. So, hurry up and come join us!
Kim Dunn
Liz Holland
Jayden Tuck Workforce & Career Readiness Coordinator
Kim Dunn
Live and play Live and play
at Lake Martin at Lake Martin
STORY BY BEN SMITH
PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & AUDRA SPEARS
Here, at Lake Martin, the sun seems to set a little slower. Streaks of orange seem to hang in the sky just a little longer, and rays of sunlight take their time dipping behind tree lines. As the sky turns from orange, to red to a deep blue, boats can be seen racing back to their docks, turning up wakes that cause the reflecting sunlight to ebb and swell.
The beauty of Lake Martin is a critical part of its allure. It is the state of Alabama’s only Treasured Lake, earning the title for meeting a handful of high-quality environmental requirements in the areas of water cleanliness, prevalence of state parks and wildlife refuges, recreational and ecological significance.
But recreation and natural beauty have not always been the focal points of the lake. In 1926, Martin Dam was built on the Tallapoosa River, as a means of producing electricity. Lake Martin was, at the time, the largest reservoir in the world. The dam reaches 2,000 feet across a bluffs and is 168 feet high, creating a lake that is over 31 miles long. During World War II, Martin Dam powered much of the country’s eastern seaboard and was considered a high priority target, should the fighting come to the continental U.S.
But Martin Dam was never attacked, and after the conclusion of the war, the area began to grow in recreation. Watersports, such as boating and waterskiing, increased in popularity. Fishing cabins and the first waterfront homes were built along the lake’s shorelines. Still, the full potential for recreational growth was handicapped by fluctuating water levels, which could increase or decrease by up to 20 feet at a moment’s notice.
Recreation on Lake Martin would not see a dramatic increase until the 1970s, when a contingent of businessmen took their concerns to Washington. When the power company’s license to operate the dam was renewed in 1972, it included a projected summer pool level of 490 feet, with a 10-foot drawdown of the water level in winter.
The consistent summer water levels led to increased recreation on Lake Martin. By the mid-1990s, homes dotted the shorelines, and small businesses had cropped up catering to lake homeowners and vacationers.
By 2008, it was apparent that Lake Martin was a prominent economic drive for the area. At the renewal of the power company’s license, the winter drawdown was reduced to 7 feet, and a conditional six-week extension of summer water levels was approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. This made access to the lake from a large number of private docks and boat ramps easier, and lake recreation in general was facilitated further.
Once every six years, the winter pool level is drawn down 10 feet to kill off invasive weeds and provide access for dock maintenance and repairs. The most recent 10-foot drawdown was the winter of 2021-2022; the next 10-foot drawdown is scheduled for 2027-2028. A conditional fall extension is declared or denied on Sept. 1 of each year. If enough water is retained throughout the Tallapoosa and Coosa river basins, Alabama Power will maintain the summer pool level at 491 mean sea level feet until Oct. 15. If the season has been a dry one, and water levels are not at peak throughout the river systems, the winter drawdown would begin on Sept. 1. This would draw the water level to 484 msl feet, where it would remain until the rule curve changes again on March 1.
Changes in water levels facilitate lake recreation, but the foundation of recreation on Lake Martin has always
been its natural beauty. From the biodiversity of the Tallapoosa Basin comes local staples of flora and fauna, such as the white-petaled Cahaba Lilies and the majestic Great Blue Heron. Then, there is the usual cast of Southern-forestry wildlife, such as deer, rabbits, squirrels and waterfowl. Even better are the fish populations; 25 of the 77 total species of the rarely seen Darter fish are found in the Tallapoosa Basin region. Lake Martin is also host to a large bass population, making it a consistent location for professional and amateur fishing tournaments, or just for daily fishing.
The biodiversity, natural beauty and cleanliness of Lake Martin are aided by a host of environmental advocacy organizations. There is the Lake Martin Resource Association, which coordinates area-wide trash cleanups and maintains hazard buoys. There is the Lake Watch organization, which monitors water quality throughout
A Great Blue Heron skims over the water in search of dinner
Porches get a lot of use at Lake Martin
A sunset cruise is the perfect end to a perfect day
Spend the day with a line in the water
Lake Martin and its tributaries. There is the Lake Martin Home Owners and Boat Owners association, which addresses legislative concerns. In addition to these, countless other organizations work to preserve and maintain the natural beauty of the area.
From the lake’s scenery comes its wide variety of recreation – from kayaking, to fishing, waterfront dining, hiking and more. Kayak the Harold Banks Canoe Trail for a peaceful float down the Tallapoosa River, passing through Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, great fishing spots and wide patches of Cahaba lilies. Wind Creek State Park is open all year and offers several options for camping along Lake Martin’s shorelines. Or make like a local and enjoy a day on the boat, floating across the lake.
And as the summer rolls around, popular events crop up weekly, such as live music, art shows, karaoke nights and more, leaving residents and tourists with plenty of adventure, fun and enjoyment to fill their days.
Discover the Lake Martin music scene at beloved festivals and concert series, which ramp up considerably during the summer months. You haven’t glimpsed the lake music scene until you’ve attended the Alexander City Jazz Fest, a two-night music event that has become a staple of Alexander City over the last 34 years. Or check out the Lake Martin Songwriters’ Festival, which brings in popular songwriters from around the country to perform at various venues around Lake Martin over the course of a week. For all the weekends in between, catch live music at lakeside bars and restaurants.
Look for Lake and Lake Martin Living magazines in racks for free at merchants throughout the Lake Martin area. In these pages, you will meet new people; see fabulous lake area homes; learn to navigate, fish and recreate on Alabama’s only Treasured Lake; discover great dining options and recipes; and find fun places to be.
We at Lake and Lake Martin Living magazines know there is a reason for this publication’s name: The South’s Best Kept Secret. Lake Martin may not be a secret per se, but the idea remains; the area is not a collection of overpriced beers, scamming tour guides, gift shops and cheap tricks. Lake Martin is not a place where large condominiums dominate the horizon, or where forests have been replaced by parking lots and wave pools.
Lake Martin has a smalltown feel, because it is a collection of small towns. Eclectic, Dadeville, Alexander City and New Site are unique, but that same feeling undergirds each one – knowing you could ask a question of someone passing by on a sidewalk, and they would stop to answer. That feeling that, if your car stalled in the middle of the intersection, you could count on a couple strangers coming to your aid and pushing you out of the way.
And that may be the real secret; that Lake Martin is more than a place to visit. With its smalltown atmosphere and big city fun, it is a place to live.
Play a challenging course
The Lake Martin area offers great golf opportunities for every age and level of play, including the showpiece course at Wicker Point Golf Club with its award-winning Coore & Crenshaw stunner.
The game of golf is as prominent in Tallapoosa County as any place in the country.
From multiple high schools providing the sport as an extracurricular activity, to Central Alabama Community College’s championship program, to the numerous public and private courses in the area, there are plenty of fairways to be hit.
Locally at the high school level, Benjamin Russell, Dadeville and Southern Preparatory Academy all offer the sport to its student-athletes. Southern Prep has recently begun hosting its own meets and tournaments locally, while Benjamin Russell has a program that yearly vies for the state playoffs.
At the collegiate level, CACC is home to one of the nation’s premier programs. This past season, CACC finished fifth at the NJCAA Men’s National Division 1 Championship. Traveling over 1,000 miles away from Alexander City, CACC was the top finishing team that was not local to the course in New Mexico.
Benjamin Russell, Southern Prep and CACC all utilize local courses to refine their games and practice. Lakewinds is home to many practice rounds for both the Wildcats and Trojans, and even rounds after dark during Alexander City’s annual Sun Festival. Right off of U.S. Route 280 in Jackson’s Gap, Lakewinds is a public 18-hole course that features many water elements and long fairways. The round greens make the par-70 course harder than your average one.
Stillwaters in Dadeville provides the home course for the Tigers’ team, as well as serving as a public course. Stillwaters also offers memberships for those who enjoy its almost 7,000 feet of course. Dining at the club’s Cooper’s Grill and Prime Steakhouse also is available to golfers.
When looking for a more exclusive golf experience, memberships are offered at Wicker Point Golf Club and at Willow Point Golf & Country Club. In January, Wicker Point was named one of GolfDigest’s top new private courses in the country.
Throughout the year, all of Tallapoosa County’s golf courses host fundraisers and events for the community. Auburn University Basketball Head Coach Bruce Pearl uses Wicker Point as the home course for his Fore The Children Golf Tournament to benefit Children’s Harbor. At Lakewinds during Sun Festival in the summer, groups play a round of glow-in-thedark golf. Almost monthly, local groups utilize the golf courses for charity events and other gatherings.
STORY BY HENRY ZIMMER
COURTESY OF RUSSELL LANDS
Whether at the high school, college or leisurely level, there are more than enough golf offerings in Alexander City and its surrounding areas. With quick access to the highway, dozens of other top-level courses across the state are accessible within minutes. If golf is your sport, Tallapoosa County is the perfect place to par-tee and play a round.
PHOTO
What's with all the construction?
That annual family vacation is something many people look forward to all year long – going to the same familiar getaway, enjoying favorite local restaurants and, most of all, seeing what has changed since the last trip. For those who vacation Lake Martin every year, it’s clear a lot has changed. No matter which direction you enter Alexander City from, you’re bound to see the growth and development that has taken hold throughout the city.
One of the most noticeable developments in Alex City is the addition of a brand-new shopping center, located on the corner of U.S. Highway 280 and state Route 63. Regardless of what time of the year you
pass by, you’ll be sure to see some growth in the center.
In the coming months, several businesses will make the Gateway at Lake Martin shopping center their home – namely, a Publix Super Market. While the one-stop grocery store will be useful for all lake weekend necessities, the shopping center will also be home to a Starbucks, Barberitos Mexican Grill, Marshalls, Five Below, Rack Room Shoes, T-Mobile, a nail salon and several other tenants according to development plans published by the leasing company. While the construction of this shopping center brings a huge advantage to the Lake Martin vacationer, Alexander City locals can expect to see a huge matu-
STORY BY MELODY RATHEL
PHOTOS BY BEN SMITH & COURTESY OF RUSSELL MEDICAL
ration of several other aspects of the city, Alexander City Chamber of Commerce CEO and president Jacob Meacham said.
“From a branding perspective, it just puts the city on a different platform,” Meacham said. “When you have brands like Publix, and the ones you typically locate into a shopping center like that, it elevates your community’s profile.”
Popular retailers and well-known brands are usually found throughout thriving communities. Not only will this development create a different perception of Alexander City, it will benefit local economic development and create more opportunities for work. Meacham said over 200 jobs will be created throughout all retailers in the center.
“Publix will certainly have a large number (of employees),” Meacham said. “They’re an employeeowned company with good benefits. When you have retail companies that offer benefits to their employees and offer career ladders locally, but also have a nationwide presence, those are certainly career opportunities.”
Meacham said Alexander City has not had a development of this size and magnitude yet. The process for the Gateway development has been in the works for almost a decade. Now, it is finally coming to fruition.
Just a couple miles northwest of the Gateway you will find the Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care. Those who have frequented Alexander City in recent years might have noticed its construction on the corner of Highway 280 and Elkahatchee Road. The building opens to patients July 29.
As part of Russell Medical’s Benjamin Russell Legacy Project, the Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care was constructed primarily for geriatric care. Podiatry, geriatric psychiatry, endocrinology, rheumatology and psychiatry will be offered at the center.
“We’re excited about that building and what it’s going to bring to the campus,” Russell Medical CEO Jim Peace said. “It’s certainly going to bring new ‘-ologists,’ if you will, to our medical staff, and I think it’s going to allow Russell to make its presence in healthcare.”
The care center is not the only development for Russell Medical. There are currently a portion of 26 total independent living cottages being pre-leased for senior living. Each cottage will have two bedrooms, convenient parking and level doorways for easy wheelchair access. With the cottages located adjacent to the hospital, residents will have easy access to the facility in the event of necessary healthcare. For even more ease of access to healthcare, each cottage will have a pull cord to alert healthcare staff, Peace said.
“We’ve created what we call a menu of services for those residents,” Peace said. “We’ll (also) be doing A
A state-of-the-art high school is under construction near the sportplex
physician house calls for our residents who use our doctors.”
The third leg of Phase 1 of the Benjamin Russell Legacy Project is the construction of a 36-bed assisted living facility. Construction has not yet begun, but the project will begin sometime in the next year, Peace said.
“We want to get these two buildings stabilized before beginning another venture,” Peace said.
Right around the corner from Russell Medical and its new developments, you will find a construction site for the new Benjamin Russell High School location.
The construction for this building began on August 9 of last year, and much progress has been made since. The building is located inside the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex and will have a capacity of around 1,000 students, with room to expand should the need arise. The 262,000 square foot, two-story building will have over 40 classrooms, several of which will be designated as career technical classes. Alongside classrooms, students will also have access to two gymnasiums, a performing arts center, band room, art room,
media center and a kitchen and cafeteria, according to Alexander City Schools’ capital projects web page. The new building is expected to be completed in time for the 2025-2026 school year.
One of the most notable construction projects on the 280 corridor is located near Chick-fil-A. A brand new Holiday Inn Express is currently being constructed. Its location will allow easy, walkable access to the soccer complex, municipal complex and Chickfil-A. For soccer tournaments, hospital visits or just a weekend getaway, the brand new Holiday Inn Express is the perfect place for travelers stopping through the community.
“All of this construction is within two miles of each other,” Meacham said. “These are only things that we have been working toward and talking about, and now to see them all happening at once shows the incredible platform we have as a community.”
The next time you head to Lake Martin for vacation, be sure to take a look at the growth of the city surrounding it.
Find a few Treasures
STORY BY ABIGAIL MURPHY PHOTOS BY BEN SMITH & AUDRA SPEARS
If you love antiques and vintage stores, you’ve landed in the right place. All around the Lake Martin area, you’ll find a variety of shops, each with its own personality and specialties. Here are just a few to get you started.
Longleaf Antique Mall
For a big haul, there is the acre-sized Longleaf Antique Mall in Alexander City. This store has over 150 vendors with old signage, furniture pieces, glassware, memorabilia and much more.
Owners Wesley Brown and Ben Hastings have more than 20 years of experience in the antique business, and they each pull from different areas. On top of that, Longleaf specializes in purchasing estates, and coordinating estate sales.
Hastings said Longleaf has a little bit of everything, from thrifty deals to high-end antiques.
“It doesn’t matter how old you are, whether you’re male or female, there’s something here for you,” Hastings said.
“It’s your one-stop shop,” Brown chimed in.
Plus, Longleaf is open seven days a week: Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 6 p.m. Check them out at 591 Alex City Shopping Center Drive.
The Picket Fence
The Picket Fence Antique Mall and Estate may not be a curated selection, but it is a carefully found selection, said owner Ellen Gregg. The Picket Fence offers one-of-a-kind antique and vintage pieces and focuses on quality pieces at reasonable prices. The store specializes in furniture, chinoiserie, décor and old books.
“Take your time,” Gregg said of antique shopping. “Don’t
be afraid to pick up and look. Go through more than once. That’s what I hear the most. People say, ‘Oh, I didn’t see this when I went through the first time.’”
Gregg said whenever she goes shopping, she likes to go in different directions around a shop and see things from a new angle because she never knows what she might find with a new perspective.
The Picket Fence is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is located at 148 Calhoun Street in downtown Alexander City.
Tippy Canoe
If you want more lake vibes, Tippy Canoe is known for its nautical and lake-inspired furnishings. Owner Mimi Rush carries high-quality, gently used furnishings with some new and some antique items.
The gently used items are priced at half of retail or below. Tippy Canoe, true to the name, also has cedar canoes on hand.
Rush said Lake Martin has become a shopping hub with all the antique and vintage stores around. Plus, Tippy Canoe is expanding with all that it has coming in.
“My auction finds, a lot of those are from Birmingham estates, but I recently bought the contents of a Nashville estate, so it comes from all over,” Rush said. “That’s why I get some cool stuff.”
Tippy Canoe is open Wednesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 6068 state Route 63 in Alexander City.
Era Waverly
If you are looking for vintage items, head to Era in Waverly.
Children's Harbor Thrift Store
Little Red Barn
Era specializes in antique and vintage jewelry, lighting and barware. Owner Jasmine Oliver said she has some antique pieces, but really, her store focuses on vintage items with multiple pieces from the mid-century, plus a vintage clothing section.
“There’s always going to be something in here for everybody,” Oliver said. “I really try hard to make sure every piece that comes in is not your normal, common, dime-a-dozen item.”
Oliver said in general she encourages people to check out Waverly with its shops, bakery and the restaurant The Waverly Local.
Era is open Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 1437 Patrick Street in Waverly.
Fig and Wasp
While in Waverly, stop at the Fig and Wasp. This antique store is run by mother-daughter duo Scout Nance and Merdeith Fyre. Fig and Wasp focuses on antique English and French furnishings, rugs and art. The store also has Nance’s own pottery work and gift items to mix the old with the new. Nance said they work to provide quality items.
Echoing Oliver’s sentiments, Nance said coming to Waverly is worth the trip.
“We have a wonderful bakery, and I’ve always said if you give ladies one place to eat and one place to shop, they will come,” she said.
Fig and Wasp is across the street from Era at 1500 Patrick Street. It is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Little Red Barn Co.
If you happen to be in the Tallassee area, make a stop at the Little Red Barn, a vintage market inside a building that’s over a hundred years old. The shop is working on some renovations to develop more space with a section for local crafters. Little Red Barn is also working on putting in a general store with nostalgic candy, some of which is already on display, plus honey and jams from local suppliers. But overall, owner Aprill Brown likes to mix the old with the new.
“I want it to be a fun place to shop,” Brown said. “Somewhere you can walk in, and it’s something different every single time. If you don’t find something this
time, maybe next time, you’ll find that little perfect piece.”
Little Red Barn is located at 2971 Notasulga Road in Tallassee and is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Children’s Harbor Thrift Store
Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store has all kinds of items, from clothes to furniture, kitchenware and many more finds. Plus, it all goes to a good cause. The proceeds help fund activities for Children’s Harbor, a Lake Martin camp facility for children with serious illnesses and their families.
The store offers drop-off hours for gently used items Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shopping hours are Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is located at 8842 Kowaliga Road in Eclectic. Folks can find additional information by calling 334-857-2008 or emailing thriftstore@childrensharbor.com.
Longleaf Antique Mall
Fig and Wasp
SUMMERTIME IS A SPECIAL TIME, IS YOUR HEART HEALTHY?
Summertime means time on the water, time away from work, and more time with family and friends.
Make sure your heart is healthy and ready for the season with an appointment at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Russell Medical.
Kevin Sublett, MD, is board-certified in cardiovascular care and offers the latest in prevention, testing, and treatment for keeping your heart healthy.
Our clinic is backed by the knowledge and expertise of UAB Medicine, including:
• Advanced ultrasound testing
• Nuclear medicine imaging in fully accredited labs
• Management of cardiac rhythm disorders
• Interventional cardiology care
Our expanded clinical team is ready to serve you. Schedule a visit today by calling 256-234-2644.
Paddle the historic Tallapoosa
STORY BY BETSY ILER
PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS & KENNETH BOONE
The Harold Banks Canoe Trail offers quiet water, a few heart-pumping ripples and unmatched beauty around every corner
Since earning a spot on the Alabama Scenic River Trail in 2015, our 25-mile stretch of the Tallapoosa River has become one of the area’s most popular adventure experiences. This river trip, known as the Harold Banks Canoe Trail, winds across a series of shoals, past a Creek Indian fish trap, past rock formations, over low grade rapids and through thousands of endemic Cahaba lilies to provide a unique float trip through pristine wilderness. It is an idyllic adventure you will relive in your heart for years to come.
The stretch of river is named after Harold Banks, who traversed the 258 miles of the Tallapoosa river in a solo canoe, beginning from its tributary to the point at which it meets the Coosa River, forming the Alabama. A historian, engaging writer and the first person to paddle the entire river, Banks published his travel journal in The Alex City Outlook, unveiling the mystery of the river and inviting others to share its story. He returned to the river in 2012 to complete the Tallapoosa’s 400-mile journey from Alabama River to the Gulf of Mexico. Banks recently published his journal, along with historical perspectives of the areas he passed on the way. By Paddle and Pack: Headwaters of the Tallapoosa to the Gulf of Mexico, 658 Miles by Solo Canoe is available in print and e-edition at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Soon after Banks completed his historic adventure, kayak and canoe rental business on the Tallapoosa River boomed. Every sort of gathering chooses to take this float trip, from bachelors’ parties to class reunions. In June, Lake Martin Tallapoosa County Tourism hosts a paddle event that quickly sells out of the 150 tickets available, and the Town of New Site celebrates this River Fest event with an art show.
Shuttle services deliver paddlers, boats and gear to the popular put-in spot near Horseshoe Bend National Military Park and retrieve tired but smiling paddlers at Jaybird Landing. That 6-mile float could take as long as five hours if a paddler isn’t in a great hurry.
The unhurried paddler might see deer along the banks or watch an eagle snatch dinner from the moving water. The uninterrupted pristine scenery of the river, with its periodic bubbling water and quiet-of-nature immersion experience, offers
an adventure with creation seldom found elsewhere, and yet so easily accessed in Tallapoosa County.
The river is as versatile as it is beautiful. Paddlers can vary their routes from one trip to the next, slipping behind islands or choosing the slower, more gradual drops of the main river channel over fast-water side shoots. There are ample places to pull up for a rest or a snack break.
Like any other boating excursion, safety should always be the utmost concern. Wear a flotation device at all times while on the river, and apply sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Take plenty of water and some healthy snacks. Never paddle alone, and always let someone know where you are going and an approximate time for your return. A waterproof pouch for your cellphone and snacks is a good idea. Plan to get wet and, above all, enjoy it.
Please respect the property of the private landowners along the river. Pack out any trash you generate and take care to not damage shoreline, animal habitats or the beauty of the river. Do not pick the beautiful Cahaba lilies – they are fragile and delicate and wouldn’t survive the trip home.
For equipment rentals, shuttle service and river information, call 256-373-3004 or visit floatal.com.
Cahaba Lillies, an endemic species, can be spotted in nature between Mother's Day and Father's Day
Edibles & Elixirs Edibles & Elixirs
Alabama Breeze Caribbean Bar & Grill
161 VFW Parkway Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 603-833-6336
Alana’s Place 110 Calhoun St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-3650
Azteca’s Mexican Grill
18092 U.S. Highway 280 Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1898
Bluffs Daiquiri Bar at Harbor Pointe ] 397 Marina Point Road Dadeville, AL 36853 256-496-6715
Big B Bar-B-Que 1626 state Route 22
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-329-9996
Bob’s Fine Food
306 Broadnax St. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1824
Buck’s 1171 Tallapoosa St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-3565
Carib Kitchen
68 Broad St. Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-4433
SpringHouse
Carlisle’s 12 Main St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-4622
Carlos Mexican Grill 136 Wheeler St. Alexander City, AL 35010 256-329-9901
Castelluccio Fine Italian Dining 107 Alabama St. Alexander City, 35010 256-392-5604
Castelluccio Lake Martin ] 7051 state Route 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1212
Catherine’s Market & BRU 63 17 Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL 35010 256-215-7070
Cazador 13033 state Route 22 E. New Site, AL 36256 256-392-4666
Cazadores Mexican Restaurant 910 Cherokee Road Alexander City, 35010 256-392-3991
Chuckwalla’s Pizzeria ] 237 Marina Road Dadeville, AL 36853 256-825-7733
Copper’s Grill at Stillwaters 797 Moonbrook Drive
Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3536
Creem at the Creek ] 4325 state Route 128
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-786-2872
Dairy Creem 2939 Dadeville Road
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-6199
Doc’s Café
Russell Medical 3316 U.S. Route 280 Alexander City, AL 35010
Fanny Goldmine 57 Russell Farms Road
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-215-7090
Firetruck Bar-B-Que 229 Jefferson St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 205-612-4530
4th Quarter Sportz Bar and Lounge 120 Tallapoosa St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-3307
G’s Kountry Kitchen 480 Laurel St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-5122
Lake Martin Pizza Company
General’s Cafe 11051 state Route 22 New Site, AL 36256 256-234-2121
Good Ole Boys BBQ 4886 U.S. Route 280
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-329-0011
Huddle House
4727 U.S. Route 280
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-215-7267
Jake’s Restaurant 16 Broad St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-4300
Jim Bob’s Chicken Fingers 1264 Cherokee Road
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-215-3998
JR’s Sports Bar and Grill 145 Alabama St.
Alexander City AL 35010 256-329-2328
Kowaliga Restaurant ] 295 Kowaliga Marina Road
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-215-7035
Lake Martin Brewing 82 Court St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-397-5747
Lake Martin Pizza Co.
5042 state Route 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3337
Lake Martin Pizza Co.
8469 state Route 63 S. Alexander City, AL 35010 256-587-2006
La Posada Mexican Grill
3714 U.S. Highway 280 Alexander City, AL 35010 256-329-3005
MawMaw’s Cornbread Kitchen
22817 state Route 22 Daviston, AL 36256 256-395-9019
Me Mama’s Grub Hub
332 E. South St.
Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3314
Miller’s on Broadnax 114 Broadnax St.
Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1238
New China
867 Market Place
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-329-0308
Niffer’s Place at Lake Martin
7500 state Route 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-825-5950
NolaBama Snack Shack
109 W. South St. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1777
Ooh Crabs Juicy Seafood 17957 U.S. Route 280
Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1163
Oskar’s Café
6684 state Route 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853
256-825-4827
Poplar Dawg’s Eatery 10277 county Road 34 Dadeville, AL 36853
256-825-9288
Ronin Sushi and Bar 863 Market Place
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-4505
Ruby Tuesday
4097 U.S. Route 280
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-4047
Sakura Bistro
4034 U.S. Route 280
Alexander City, AL 35010
256-234-9833
Sho’Nuff BBQ
651 Alex City Shopping Center Drive
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-7675
SpringHouse 12 Benson Mill Road
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-215-7080
Sun’s Diner
993 Airport Drive
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-4446
Taqueria Avita 60 Broad St. Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-3457
The Burritos Corner Mexican Grill
8605 state Route 50 Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1887
The Camellia Café
105 W. Columbus St. Dadeville, AL 36853
The Funky Goat
145 N. Tallassee St. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1675
The Landing at Harbor Pointe ] 71 Marina Point Road Dadeville, AL 36853
The Landing at Parker Creek ] 8300 Parker Creek Marina Road Equality, AL 36026 205-410-6091
The Social at Lake Martin ]
2001 Castaway Island Road Eclectic, AL 36024 334-458-0260
The Station’s Best 977 Jefferson St. Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-3500
Twice Baked
5058 county Road 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853 334-744-3061
Wharf Casual Seafood 4011 U.S. Route 280 Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-3227
Who’s Diner 1560 state Route 22 Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 212-1501
SWEETS, TREATS, & DRINKS
Alex City Nutrition 2 Broad St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-496-8284
Emporium Wine
128 Calhoun St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-212-9463
Fermenter’s on the Green 149 Alabama St. Alexander City, AL 35010 256-615-3404
Lake Martin Creamery 8212 county Road 34 Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3246
Lake Martin Piano Bar 5958 county Road 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-269-0480
Local at 41 Main 41 Main St. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-392-3629
Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe 5958 county Road 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-269-0104
Martin’s at Lake Martin 10207 county Road 34 Dadeville, AL 36853 256- 307-1210
Millhouse Coffee 3316 U.S. Route 280 Alexander City, AL 35010 256-397-7711
Nirvana Latte 5054 state Route 49 S. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1253
Rita’s Italian Ice & Custard 8469 state Route 63 S. Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-4265
Scooter’s Coffee 4141 U.S. Route 280
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-3651
Sweet Gaga’s 126 Marshall St.
Alexander City, AL 35010 256-392-5676
Tallapoosa Nutrition 132 W. Cusseta St. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-4052
The Grand Bakery 114 N. Broadnax St. Dadeville, AL 36853 256-307-1332
Yellow Top Ice Cream Shop ] On-the-water seasonal ice cream boat
205-531-7628
] Waterfront Dining
The Grand Bakery
Love the smalltown charm i
In the heart of Alexander City, there are shops, restaurants, bars and activities to enjoy in the downtown arts and entertainment district.
Main Street Alexander City Executive Director Michelle West said Main Street focuses on beautification, economic development and promotion of the district. Main Street works to increase activity and foot traffic, attracting more visitors and creating a happening community.
Among the retail options, there’s Jes & Gray Living for furniture; Downtown Girl, Haynies Shoes and Clothier and Cloud Nine boutiques; Scent Wizards for candles and more; Merle Norman; Unlimited Designs; The Wright Angle; Emporium Wine for a selection of fine wines; Cotney Jewelers; For Heaven’s Sake bookstore; and The Picket Fence Antique Mall.
On top of that, The Square includes a collection of businesses, including Half Moon Market & Interiors, Mattie Moon Women’s Clothing, Moon Pie Children’s Clothing & Gifts, Fab Four Shoe Room, Moon Mercantile Gifts, George E.’s Men’s Shop, Alana’s Place for breakfast and lunch, Lake Martin Tan Bar, Plasma by Pita, Sarah Bella Salon Spa Boutique and Coalition Capital Management.
Some of the downtown dining options include Jake’s on Broad, Taqueria Avita, Carib Kitchen, Carlos Mexican Grill, Daylight Donuts, Castelluccio, Carlisle’s and Sweet Gaga’s Bakery.
Patrons may stroll the arts and entertainment district on Broadway Plaza and Main and Alabama streets, including Strand Park, with an alcoholic beverage from local venues in hand. A few of these include J.R.’s Bar and Grill, Fermenter’s Market, The Local, 4th Quarter Sportz Bar and Lounge and Lake Martin Brewery.
Most of the businesses downtown are small and local, making it a great area to shop for unique items. Fitness and nutrition businesses also are available downtown, as
well as beauty, personal and business services. Downtown Alexander City also is home to the Wellborn Musclecar Museum, an extensive private collection of MOPAR and musclecar automobiles from the ’60s and ’70s.
But there’s even more going on downtown. Main Street Alexander City keeps a running calendar of events downtown all year. Around Mardi Gras, Main Street hosts a gumbo and chili cook-off. In May, there’s Bingo in the Park. In June, the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce hosts Sun Festival events downtown, and the Lake Martin Songwriters Festival brings in all flavors of acoustic music at the end of July.
From May to August every year, the Lake Martin Young Professionals host more live music with the Strand Sessions in Strand Park on the first Thursday evenings of each month. Plus, beginning Memorial Day weekend, the Alexander City Farmer’s Market sets up on Calhoun Street from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through Aug. 31. Another ongoing event is the Second Saturday Cleanup, a collaboration with Lake Martin Resource Association to keep downtown litter free.
“I try to do an event at least once a month and more if there’s a good idea out there and volunteers to help out with it,” West said.
In October, a fall festival with trick or treating, carriage rides and more comes to downtown. Then, November ushers in the holiday season with a Christmas tree lighting and the annual holiday open house showcasing decoration. December sees the annual Downtown Christmas celebration, brought to the area by Alexander City Parks and Rec.
With so many shops and businesses, Main Street has QR codes stationed around downtown that link to a map, so you always know where you are and how to get to where you want to be. For even more information, visit mainstreetalexandercity.org.
STORY BY ABIGAIL MURPHY
PHOTO BY AUDRA SPEARS
Downtown Alexander City
Education in Alexander City
Anew superintendent of schools in Alexander City is in place, Dr. Jose Reyes Jr., and a new high school is under construction. At Central Alabama Community College, renovations will soon be made to the Health, Education and Arts building. Exciting things are happening here in education.
Central to your success, Central Alabama Community College is a great place to kick off a college education or learn a trade. The accredited school enrolls over 1,500 students, offering support for transfer-bound, twoyear degree and certification-seeking paths.
Counseling and assistance are offered to support students who plan to transfer to a four-year education facility after starting at CACC. Students can earn an associ-
ate degree in applied science or combine the associate degree with a variety of workforce education programs, many of which offer certification in an applicable field. Workforce education programs are offered in nursing, welding, auto manufacturing, industrial electronics technology, computer information systems, office administration, truck driving, machine shop, cosmetology and marine technology.
CACC athletic programs have a reputation for excellence, as well. CACC’s tennis program is nationally ranked, and the golf team consistently places at nationals, as does the baseball team.
To explore the options at Central Alabama Community College, visit cacc.edu.
CACC ambassadors with President Jeff Lynn
Glad to start school in the fall
ALEXANDER CITY SCHOOLS
For information, including attendance zones and enrollment requirements, contact the Alexander City Board of Education at 256-234-8600.
Take-in and dismissal times are subject to change. For updates, visit alexcityschools.net.
Jim Pearson (K-2nd)
1250 Scott Road, Alexander City 256-234-8625
Principal: Stephanie Brooks School starts: 7:30 a.m.
Dismissal: 2:35 p.m.
After the Bell: 2:25 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. jpes.alexcityschools.net
Stephens Elementary (3rd-4th)
851 Laurel St., Alexander City 256-234-8631
Principal: Clifton Pace Take In: 7:25 a.m.
Dismissal: 2:40 p.m. ses.alexcityschools.net
Radney Elementary (5th-6th) 140 Alison Drive, Alexander City 256-234-8636
Principal: Johanna Morgan
Take In: 7:30 a.m.
Dismissal: 2:45 p.m.
After the Bell: 2:35 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. res.alexcityschools.net
Alexander City Middle School (7th-8th)
359 State St., Alexander City 256-234-8660
Principal: Lisa Heard Take In: 7:45 a.m.
Dismissal: 3 p.m.
After the Bell: 3:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. acms.alexcityschools.net
Benjamin Russell High School (9th-12th)
225 Heard Blvd., Alexander City 256-234- 8611
Principal: Shannon Benefield
Take In: 8 a.m.
Dismissal: 3:15 p.m. brhs.alexcityschools.net
ALEXANDER CITY BOARD OF EDUCATION
256-234-8600
375 Lee St., Alexander City, AL 35010
SUPERINTENDENT
Jose Reyes, Jr. (Ed.D.) jreyes@acsk12.net
BOARD MEMBERS
➤ Brett Prichard, President Brett.pritchard@acsk12.net
➤ Michael Ransaw, Vice President michael.ransaw@acsk12.net
➤ Kimberly Carter kimberly.carter@acsk12.net
➤ Dr. Chantè Ruffin chante.ruffin@acsk12.net
➤ Adam Wade Adam.wade@acsk12.net
LOCAL DAYCARES AND PRESCHOOLS
ALEXANDER CITY
Cooper Head Start
625 Martin Luther King Blvd., Alexander City 256-234-6964
First Baptist Early Learning Center
64 Court Square, Alexander City 256-392-4438
Harbor Learning Academy LLC
461 Fifth Way, Alexander City 256-234-4739
Happy World Child Care Center
368 F Street, Alexander City 256-329-8029
Jacob’s Ladder Creative Learning Center
310 Green St., Alexander City 256-234-5783
Jean Dean Daycare
303 Mary St., Alexander City 256-234-5175
Mother Goose Child Development
645 Scott Road, Alexander City 256-234-3780
Next Generation Learning Center
870 Terrace Dr., Alexander City 256-329-0304
Robinson Head Start Center
277 Tallapoosa St., Alexander City 256-234-7583
Stepping Stones Learning Center
111 Poplar Road, Alexander City 256-392-5001
Woody Woodpecker Day Care
151 Jefferson St., Alexander City 256-234-6287
DADEVILLE
Head Start
170 S Broadnax St., Dadeville 256-825-4204
Horseshoe Bend Baptist Church Daycare 17363 U.S. Route 280, Dadeville 256-825-7544
Little Lambs & Ivy Day School
580 E. South St., Dadeville 256-825-9415
PRIVATE SCHOOLS
Faith Christian Academy
425 Franklin St., Alexander City 256-234-6421
Princeton High School International 1402 Hillabee St., P.O. Box 1334, Alexander City 256-215-4211
jjbi.education/princeton-high-schoolinternational
Veritas Lake Martin Christian School
64 Court Square, Alexander City 256-537-5004 veritaslakemartin.com
HOMESCHOOL COVER SCHOOL
Lake Martin Christian Academy
64 Court Square, Alexander City 256-794-4313 lmcalions.com
A.M.E.
Saint James A.M.E. Goodwater, 256-839-1007
St. John A.M.E.
U.S. Route 280 & state Route 9 256-215-3532
Assemblies of God
Cedar St. Church of God 703 E. Blvd., Alex City
Faith Assembly of God 590 Horseshoe Bend Rd., Dadeville 256-825-7741
River of Life Worship Center 407 Hillabee St., Alex City, 256-329-9593
Independent Baptist
Liberty Baptist 1365 Hillabee St., Alex City 256-329-8830
New Life Baptist County Rd. 14, Alex City, 256-329-2635
Victory Baptist 210 South Rd., Alex City 256-234-2089
West End Baptist
Off U.S. Route 280 West, Alex City 256-234-2130
Baptist – Missionary Bethlehem Baptist New Site
Cross Key Baptist Hackneyville, 256-329-9716
Darian Missionary Baptist Church
Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City 256-329-3865
Elam Baptist Robertson Rd. Alex City
Early Rose Baptist 201 E St., Alex City
Flint Hill Baptist U.S. Route 280, Dadeville
Friendship Baptist Our Town Community, 256-329-5243
Hollins Springs Baptist U.S. Route 280, Goodwater
Jackson’s Gap Baptist Church 21 East Church St., Jackson's Gap 256-825-6814
Liberty Church 1034 Liberty Church Rd., Alex City
Macedonia Baptist Macedonia Circle, Goodwater 256-839-5793
Church Directory
Marietta Baptist Goodwater
Miracle Missionary Baptist 1687 “I” St. 256-215-9788, 256-215-9787
Mt. Calvary Baptist 329 King St., Alex City, 256-234-5631
Mt. Olive Baptist U.S. Route 280 & state Route 49, Goodwater
Mt. Sinai Baptist Fish Pond Rd., Coosa County 256-329-2337
Mt. Zion Baptist State Route 22, New Site
Mt. Zion East StillWaters Dr., Dadeville 256-825-4991
Mt. Zion West Our Town Community, 256-234-7748
New Elam Baptist State Route, Burtonville 256-234-2037
New Bethel Baptist Rock St., Dadeville, 256-825-7726
Peace & Goodwill Baptist 188 Coosa Co. Rd. 30, Rockford 256-377-4634
Pine Grove Baptist Eagle Creek Rd., Dadeville
Pleasant Home Baptist Clay County
Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist
835 Valley Rd., Camp Hill 334-257-4442
Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist Alex City, 256-234-6972
Rocky Mt. Baptist New Site community
Seleeta Baptist Booker St., Alex City 256-329-2685
Shady Grove Baptist Jackson’s Gap Community
The Great Bethel Missionary 520 Christian St., Alex City 256-234-5513
Unity Baptist Robinson Rd., Alex City
Zion Hill Missionary Baptist 583 S. Broadnax St., Dadeville
Baptist – Southern Bay Pine Baptist
1480 Bay Pine Rd. Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-4433
Bethany Baptist Church
Bethany Rd., Alexander City
Bethel Baptist
Smith Mt. Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-5070
Beulah Baptist
Smith Mt. Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-9882
Calvary Baptist 819 Main St., Dadeville, 256-825-5989
Calvary Heights Baptist Elkahatchee Rd., Alex City 256-234-7224
Camp Hill Baptist Downtown Camp Hill, 256-896-2811
Comer Memorial 941 E. Church St., Alex City 256-234-2236
Daviston Baptist Daviston, 395-4327
Eagle Creek Baptist State Route 49, Dadeville, 256-825-6048
Fellowship Baptist Buttston Community
Fellowship Primitive Baptist Church Claybrook Drive, Alex City 256-839-5339
First Baptist First Baptist Court Square, Alex City 256-234-6351
First Baptist Tallassee St., Dadeville, 256-825-6232
Good News Baptist Church 10493 U.S. Route 280, Jackson’s Gap 256-825-2555
Hackneyville Baptist State Route 63 N., Hackneyville
Hillabee Baptist Hillabee Rd., Alex City 256-234-6798
Horseshoe Bend Baptist U.S. Route 280, Dadeville Jackson’s Gap Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-4951
Kellyton Baptist Kellyton, 256-329-1512
Kendrick Baptist Church Nixburg
Lake Martin Baptist County Rd. 34, Dadeville 256-825-7434
Lake Pointe Baptist 8352 State Route 50 West, Dadeville
Lebanon Baptist Mt. Carmel Rd., Dadeville, 256-234-7541
Mountain Springs Baptist Off State Route 22, Daviston
Mt. Carmel Baptist 3610 Dudleyville Rd., Dadeville
Mt. Zion Baptist State Route 63 S., Alex City 256-234-7748
New Beginning Baptist 1076 Coley Creek Rd.
New Concord Baptist Off State Route 49, Dadeville, 256-825-5390
New Elkahatchee Baptist Elkahatchee Rd., Alex City 256-329-9942
New Hope Baptist 1133 New Hope Church Rd. 256-329-5218
New Life Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-825-6190 / 256-329-2635
New Pine Grove Baptist Off State Route 22, Perryville
New Providence Baptist Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City
New Rocky Mount Baptist 670 Peckerwood Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-794-3846
New Salem Baptist New Site Rd., New Site, 256-234-2932
Old Providence Baptist Off State Route 63 N.
Old Union Baptist 1106 Davis Circle 256-596-1873
Orr St. Baptist 1000 “O” St. Alex City 256-234-3171
Perryville Baptist Perryville, 256-234-3588
Pine Grove Baptist Camp Hill
Ray Baptist County Rd. 32, Alex City, 256-234-7609
River Rd. Baptist 148 Dean Rd., Alex City, 256-234-6971
Creek Baptist Samford Rd., Cowpens Community
Rocky Mount Baptist State Route 22 E., Alex City, 256-329-2327
Rock Springs Baptist Jackson’s Gap, 256-839-6263
Russell Farm Baptist 11703 Hwy 63 S., Alex City
Sandy Creek Baptist Alex City
Stone Ridge Baptist 611 Airport Dr., Alex City, 256-234-2408
Sunny Level Baptist Church Sewell St., Alex City
Town Creek Baptist Camp Ground Rd., Alex City
Wayside Baptist 21 Wayside Circle, Alex City 256-234-5564
Zion Hill Baptist 808 Co. Rd. 79, Daviston Catholic St. John the Apostle 454 N. Central Ave., Alex City 256-234-3631
Church of Christ
Alex City Church of Christ 945 Tallapoosa St., Alex City 256-234-6494
Dadeville Church of Christ East LaFayette St., Dadeville
Meadows St. Church of Christ 306 Meadows St., Alex City
Pleasant Grove Church of Christ 1819 Bay Pine Rd, Jackson’s Gap
Southview Church of Christ 2325 Dadeville Rd., Alex City 256-329-0212
Church of God
Alex City No. 2 A.C.O.P.
Church of God
Local St., Alex City
Bread of Life A.C.O.P.
Church of God
U.S. Route 280, Kellyton
Cedar St. Church of God
711 Martin Luther King Blvd. Alex City
Dadeville Church of God
425 Horseshoe Bend Rd. Dadeville 256-825-8820
Connect
428 Marshall St., Alex City 256-234-3180
New Faith Tabernacle
A.C.O.P.
Church of God “J” St.
New Harvest Ministries
Church of God
U.S. Route 280 & County Rd. 28 256-329-2331
Pentecostal Church of God
163 Franklin St., Alex City
256-215-4055
The Church of God 13th Ave. N., Alex City 256-329-1696
Washington St. A.C.O.P.
Church of God Washington St.
Church of God of Prophecy
Church of God of Prophecy
303 Poplar Rd., Alex City, 256-234-6941
Church of Jesus
Christ
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1515 Worthy Rd., Alex City
Church of the Nazarene
Dadeville Church of the Nazarene
U.S. Route 280 & State Route 49 256-825-8191
Episcopal Saint James Episcopal Church
347 S. Central Ave., Alex City 256-234-4752
Holiness
Alex City Emmanuel Holiness Hillabee St., Alex City
House of Restoration Holiness
519 Slaughter Ave., Camp Hill, 256-749-2373, 256-896-2904
Full Gospel
Dadeville Foursquare
Gospel Church Old U.S. Route 280
Fellowship Revival Center
Mission 316 6th Ave., Alex City 256-329-1510 weekends
Kellyton Revival Center County Rd. 87 South,
Kellyton
Liberty Life Christian Center
321 “S” St., Alex City
Passion Church 3340 State Route 63 N., Alex City 256-409-9590
The Family Worship Center 365 Scott Rd., Alex City
Methodist – United Comer Memorial U.M. State Route 9, Goodwater
Duncan Memorial U.M. 3997 Hillabee Rd., Alex City 256-234-6708
First United Methodist 3266 U.S. Route 280, Alex City 256-234-2455
First United Methodist Dadeville, 256-825-4404
Haven United Methodist 354 Christian St., Alex City 256-329-8394
Liberty United Methodist Liberty Rd., Hackneyville
Mt. Godfrey New Site
New Site U.M. New Site, 256-234-7834
Pearson Chapel U.M. Pearson Chapel Rd., Alex City
Red Ridge United Methodist 8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville 256-825-9820
Sunnylevel United Methodist 3202 State Route 63N, Alex City
Union United Methodist 4428 County Rd. 50, Dadeville
Methodist –Independent Alex City Methodist 11th Ave. N., Alex City 256-329-1284
Bradford Methodist 18764 State Route 9, Goodwater
Cornerstone First Global Methodist 310 Green St., Alex City 256-801-1746
Daviston Independent Methodist Daviston, 395-4207
Flint Hill Church 2858 Flint Hill Rd., Alex City 256-234-5047
Hillabee Campground
Methodist 120 County Rd., Alex City
Pentecostal
Pentecostals of Dadeville 800 Horseshoe Bend Rd., Dadeville, 256-596-3411
Presbyterian
First Presbyterian 371 Jefferson St., Alex City 256-329-0524
First Presbyterian Okefuske, Dadeville 256-825-4081
United Pentecostal
Alex City Apostolic 3708 Robinson Rd., Alex City, 256-329-1573
Independent
Faith Temple Franklin St., Alex City, 256-234-6421
Family Worship Center 1676 Sewell St. 256-839-6895
First Congregational Christian 11th Ave. South, Alex City
GAP Fellowship Ministries 721 Robinson Court, Alex City
God’s House 9334 State Route 63 N., Alex City
Jehovah-Jireh Ministries 252 Tallapoosa St., Alex City 256-215-4211
Leap of Faith Outreach Ministry
886 Terrance Dr., 256-234-7119
New Bethel Fellowship Church
5474 Rock Springs Rd., Jackson’s Gap 256-825-3367
The Baha’I Faith 740 Newell St., Camp Hill 256-896-4007
The Word Bible Church
161 Main St., Alex City, 256-215-5646
Vertical Point Church 860 Airport Dr., Alex City 256-392-5013
A lot of things named around here
STORY BY MELODY RATHEL
PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE, AUDRA SPEARS & COURTSEY OF RUSSELL LANDS
Whether you’re leaving Auburn and driving northbound, or heading south for a weekend on Lake Martin, you’ve probably noticed the name Russell while driving along U.S. Route 280. From a spirited smalltown high school to a state-of-the-art rural healthcare facility, it’s clear Russell is an important name throughout Alexander City.
Russell y
The Russell family’s roots run deep around here. Since the late 1800s, the Russells have been catalysts in the economic development of the Lake Martin area. Benjamin “Mr. Ben” Russell made the family’s entrepreneurial debut when he founded the Citizens Bank of Alexander City in 1900, according to Russell Lands, Inc., History by Ben Russell, grandson of Mr. Ben. The bank eventually became known as Alexander City First National Bank and is now part of the Valley Bank System.
In 1902, Mr. Ben founded Russell Mills, which grew to employ more than 6,000 people in Alexander City alone and even more across the country. To accommodate their employees’ needs, Mr. Ben founded churches and schools and ultimately a medical center. His philanthropic nature lives on through the Benjamin and Roberta Russell Educational and Charitable Foundation, which was established shortly after his death in 1941. This foundation provides scholarships to
students pursuing higher education. The foundation also established the local library and funds many more local projects and programs today. On Sept. 4, 1950, the high school was dedicated and named after Mr. Ben. Today, Benjamin Russell High School serves almost 800 students in preparation of their futures. The ventures made by the Russell family are reflected in the family’s involvement in the Lake Martin community today.
As an environmentally conscious entrepreneur, Mr. Ben felt strongly about using natural resources from the area. He founded Dixie Farms in 1926 to help poor families accelerate their farming efforts. In 1950, the farm was renamed Russell Lands.
Russell Lands, Inc.
Russell Lands, Inc., has grown to be an essential element of the Lake Martin economy. The company plans aesthetic, environmentally conscientious neighborhoods, one-of-a-kind restaurants, full-service marinas, hardware stores and more throughout the area and beyond.
“The company officially took off in the 1960s as its own entity,” Russell Lands CEO David Sturdivant said. “It has certainly grown over the years with various developments.”
One of Russell Lands’ first developments was the 167-acre Willow Point Golf & Country Club. In the early 1970s, Willow
Russell Lands' Willow Point Golf & Country Club is at Ourtown on state Route 63
yPoint was among the first planned communities at the lake, and the neighborhood attracted golfers to the area.
Russell Lands established numerous neighborhoods, including The Ridge, Glynmere, Windermere, River Oaks and more. Most recently, the company completed construction of Wicker Point Golf Club, the state’s only golf course designed by the top-rated architectural team of Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore.
In the 1980s, Russell Do it Center & Building Supply was opened in Alexander City. In the two decades following, the building supply and appliance store opened locations in multiple cities across central Alabama.
With nine storefront locations throughout the state, the Russell name goes far beyond Alexander City.
From Auburn to Prattville, hardware stores serve a large portion of Alabama’s population.
“The impact of Russell Lands on the community is enormous,” Sturdivant said. “Everything from something as basic and critical as job creation and all the different job opportunities that Russell Lands has available in the community. We have a core base of full-time employees year-round, but in the summertime, we’re probably getting close to 1,000 employees across the company.”
Not only is Russell Lands responsible for much of the economic development surrounding Lake Martin, the company
Russell Medical offers award-winning patient care and a variety of specialties
and its leaders are dedicated to giving back to the community.
“The commitment to the community is huge,” Sturdivant said. “It manifests itself in a number of ways. Whether it be through donations to charitable and civic operations or supporting what our employees are involved with.”
Russell Marine
Russell Marine falls under the Russell Lands umbrella. Well into the company’s tenure, Russell Lands expanded its operations to become one of the largest marine corporations in the area.
“Kowaliga Marina was the first one,” Sturdivant said. “Then, in the early 2000s, we started growing some of these other larger marinas that we have, such as The Ridge, that are part of the Russell Marine family.”
The strategic location of each marina positions the company as a central hub for all things boating – fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts and professionals alike. You’ll find the Russell name on the lake from the River North Marina on the north end of the lake to the Real Island Marina in Equality. And in recent years, the company renovated a former Russell Brands (Russell Mills) building to open Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors right on U.S. Route 280 in Alexander City. The marina facilities across the Russell Marine family
yoffer an extensive array of boats for purchase, rigging, abundant boat storage and any imaginable boat supply needed – all of which are offered year-round.
Russell Crossroads
For the last two decades, Russell Crossroads has served as an amenity to Lake Martin locals and visitors alike.
According to Sturdivant, Russell Lands created Russell Crossroads to serve as a hospitality epicenter of Lake Martin. The town center offers unique dining options at SpringHouse, Fanny Goldmine Diner and BRU 63, as well as an upscale grocery in Catherine’s Market.
The Stables at Russell Crossroads offers boarding for horses, as well as trail rides and carriages for hire. When you’re in the area, stroll down the road toward The Stables to see the exotic Watusi cattle.
The Stables also is a popular wedding venue at the lake and is the after-party site for the Russell Forest Run, a 5K and 10K event that raises funds for the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. And The Stables hosts a Derby Day event to raise money for Children’s Harbor.
Russell’s appreciation for nature still manifests itself today at Russell Crossroads. Hands-on presentations about local wildlife and ecology are among the fun things to do here.
A risky endeavor birthed the hospitality and entertainment hub, Sturdivant said. After beginning its development in 2007, the Russell Lands leadership was presented with a decision –to complete the project or not.
“There was a great recession around 2008 and 2009,” Sturdivant said. “We were essentially halfway finished. We decided to press ahead and get it done.”
Sturdivant, who served as controller at the time, said the decision to continue construction presented some risks due to the economic standing of the country at the time; however, the reward eventually outweighed the risk.
“I’m glad we decided to continue,” Sturdivant said. “We were ahead of the game when the recession started improving economically, and we could take advantage of that.”
Russell Medical
Throughout the Russell family’s history, stewardship and dedication to the community has remained a common theme across all of the company’s organizations. Throughout Russell Mills’ operation in the early 1900s, Mr. Ben made sure mill
employees had access to important necessities – such as healthcare.
In 1923, Mr. Ben founded Russell Medical as a hospital for mill employees, Russell Medical CEO Jim Peace said. The hospital’s original location was on Lee Street.
In the 1960s, Congress passed the Hill-Burton Free and Reduced Health Care Act, allowing rural communities to apply for funding for local hospitals. Russell received funding, and the hospital then became independent of the mill, Peace said. Since then, Russell Medical has moved to U.S. Route 280 and has grown tremendously. Today, the hospital offers dozens of specialties to serve the Alexander City community with state-of-the-art equipment, an anomaly for most rural hospitals.
“It became a community-based hospital,” Peace said. “We exist because of the Russell family. Not only the family’s guidance, but their affiliation, even today.”
Several members of the family have served on the hospital’s board throughout the years. Today, Mr. Ben’s grandson serves as emeritus.
“Ben (the grandson) is such a visionary,” Peace said. “I don’t know if I can even use a word that describes Ben Russell that others haven’t already used. Ben was three or four steps ahead of the rest of us.”
Peace said the Russell family’s values are demonstrated through the passion and care of the hospital employees.
“The employees here have a passion and a commitment to what they do,” Peace said. “There’s an ‘I Care’ culture here, and that’s important. Our foundation that we have today wouldn’t be in existence had it not been for the Russell family.”
Last year, the hospital celebrated its 100th anniversary.
Adelia M. Russell Foundation
The Russells’ philanthropic vision is reflected through the Adelia M. Russell Charitable Foundation. In 1986, the family established the foundation to support organizations, projects and endeavors within the Alexander City community, as well as throughout the state, according to Dedie Hendrix, Mr. Ben’s great-granddaughter. Its first distributions were made a year after its inception.
The family established the foundation in honor of Adelia McConnell Russell, Russell’s mother.
“Since its inception, the foundation has awarded over $10 million in charitable contributions,” Hendrix said. “It has a remarkable record of supporting educational programs, from pre-K to college, local nonprofit organizations, hospitals and libraries, to name a few.”
The library derived its name from Adelia’s passion to create a place for the whole community to enjoy. The foundation contributes to the library’s efforts every year.
The Russell name goes far beyond the names on a few local businesses. Generations of hard work, stewardship and philanthropy are the foundation of not only the company name but also the family. The next time you find yourself passing a Russell organization in Alexander City, take a moment to reflect on the rich history of the name.
Russell Crossroads is a hub of summer activity
Lake Martin Bucket List
STORY BY MELODY RATHEL
PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE, AUDRA SPEARS & BETSY ILER
Moving to a new place often is a riveting experience. Seeing new environments, learning different cultures and exploring your new locale could bring immense joy, but it could be overwhelming when it comes to figuring out the “must-see” places and things to do. Luckily, first timers and newcomers to Lake Martin have a wide variety of options to choose from, no matter what time of year it is.
For both the snowbird and the sun-seeker, Tallapoosa County has an endless whirlwind of opportunities for living your best life here. To help narrow down the options, Tallapoosa County Tourism Director Sandra Fuller reviewed the places that every area resident should visit.
ON THE WATER
➤ Peanut Point
Set your GPS to latitude: 32.82905, longitude: -85.89551, a small peninsula just a stone’s throw from the west bank of Woods Island. Here, visitors park their boats on the shore and enjoy mid-day lake treats with their families.
“They’re seasonal,” Fuller said. “They’re open every weekend from Memorial Day through Labor Day. It’s just a fun place to pull up and eat boiled peanuts.”
From their famous boiled peanuts to ice cream and popsicles, Peanut Point is a great place for families to
stop on a hot summer day. First-timers can even pick up a T-shirt on their way out to commemorate their time at this popular lake venue.
➤ D.A.R.E. Power Park
The family of boaters finds a plethora of recreation at D.A.R.E. Power Park on the Dadeville side of Lake Martin. Courtesy of Alabama Power, families gather at the beach, stop for a picnic or spend the whole day here. The park is fully equipped with public restrooms, a guard shack, a wooden playground for children and scenic views for parents to soak up.
“It’s a beautiful public beach,” Fuller said. “It’s got multiple pavilions, multiple picnic tables and multiple piers you can pull up to. They’ve got the coolest wooden playground with a rock climbing wall and all kinds of other things.”
Fuller said this park is a one-of-a-kind stop for anyone at Lake Martin.
➤ Harold Banks Canoe Trail
Fuller also recommended spending a day on the Tallapoosa River’s Harold Banks Canoe Trail.
An excursion is just 6 miles long and takes about four hours to float the entire trail. While the four-hour canoe trip is a treat in itself, the views are what take the cake.
“It’s got some beautiful scenic views,” Fuller said. “It’s got shoals, the Cahaba lilies, a beautiful mountain called
The rare Cahaba Lilly has a short but beautiful life on
the Tallapoosa
Peanut Point has been a favorite boat-ride stop for generations
The Welborn Musclecar Museum overflows with MOPAR history
Rafting up at Chimney Rock is a great way to spend a day at Lake Martin
Educational panels along the Horseshoe Bend Trail offer insight into a battle that changed the course of a nation
D.A.R.E.
Laura’s Leap, and you’ll see a lot of bald eagles in that area.”
This float is a great way to learn about the Tallapoosa River while soaking in the natural beauty. Harold Banks Canoe Trail is the perfect outing for the outdoors enthusiast.
“You definitely don’t want to miss this,” Fuller said. “It’s just absolutely breathtaking during the time the lilies are out between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.”
➤ Chimney Rock
No visit to Lake Martin is complete without seeing Chimney Rock. More than a hundred boats might raft up here to cool off in the deep water below a 60-foot bluff. This is a great place to congregate with family and friends.
Though jumping from the highest point of the island is a popular activity, it can be dangerous, and numerous jumpers have been seriously injured.
OFF THE WATER
➤
Smith Mountain
For those who enjoy the outdoors but prefer to stay dry, Smith Mountain is the perfect outing. With multiple trails winding through a beautiful lowland forest to a 90-foot firetower, Smith Mountain has something for essentially everyone.
“Smith Mountain is a really unique place to go,” Fuller said. “It’s the tallest elevation on Lake Martin.”
Hikers, walkers and runners alike have a trail that’s suitable for their needs. There are three trails: two that go up the mountain, and one that extends out into the lake. Those seeking an extra scenic view should trek up the mountain to find the historic firetower at the top.
After 90 feet of stairs, climbers are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Martin and the foliage surrounding it. The education center at the base of the firetower offers lots of information about the geology, history, flora and fauna of the Lake Martin area. Be sure to sign the notebook at the tower footings, as the number of annual visitors helps the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association qualify for grant funds to maintain this and other free foot-path-only trails around Lake Martin.
➤ Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
The history buff who wants a break from the water will find the perfect getaway at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park. This park is tucked into a historic bend of the Tallapoosa River. It is the site of a pivotal battle of the Creek War on March 27, 1814. The trail is just over 2 miles long, and it loops around the entire park.
Not only can families bring their children for an educational experience, but their dogs can join them on a leash.
While getting an immersive history lesson, walkers may be greeted by an assortment of wildlife. Birdwatchers and naturalists alike find the perfect expedition throughout the park. With extensive types of vegetation and a variety of bird species, there are many eye-
Power Park's playground fosters fun and lifelong memories
Smith Mountain Fire Tower offers spectacular views for anyone willing to brave the climb
Catherine's Market is one of many amenities found at Russell Crossroads
catching elements at Horseshoe Bend.
➤ Wellborn Musclecar Museum
If an unfortunate rainy day falls on Lake Martin, the Wellborn Musclecar Museum is a great indoor activity. Open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays, and by appointment only Tuesday through Friday, this museum pays homage to the spectacular auto era of the 1960s and 1970s.
“The Wellborn Car Museum showcases classic cars, such as the Dodge Charger Super Bee,” Fuller said. “It has the nation’s largest high performance Dodge collection. It’s really an amazing place. If you’ve not been, you definitely want to take it in.”
Not only can guests browse the vast collection of vintage sports cars, but they can browse the collection of merchandise the museum offers. From T-shirts to coolers, anyone can find a sweet item to bring home.
➤ Russell Crossroads
After a long day of hitting the lake, Russell Crossroads is a great place to close out a hot summer day. Within Russell Crossroads are several dining options and a boutique grocery store fully equipped to keep a lake home stocked.
In addition, the Town Green at Russell Crossroads features free live music every Friday night all summer long. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, coolers and picnics, as well as the pup on a leash. Russell Lands provides the lawn games, and the beautiful setting is via Mother Nature.
Children and adults alike can find their inner zoophilist at Russell Crossroads, as Naturalist Marianne Gauldin offers wildlife presentations at the Naturalist Cabin. Spend a day getting to know the wildlife of Lake Martin.
More than 125 miles of hiking trails wind through Russell Forest, many of which are accessible from Russell Crossroads. But hikers should be aware that they share the trails with mountain bikers and horses, and a few of the trails also are available to ATV traffic.
Russell Crossroads also is home to The Company Store, with a collection of lake-related gifts and décor, as well as The Stables, a working horse barn that boards horses, showcases some interesting and unusual exotic animals and is a popular site for dream-come-true Lake Martin weddings.
Your Health Matters
STORY BY BETSY ILER
Award winning health care is the standard in the Lake Martin area, and you’ll find a wide spectrum of quality services here that rarely are available outside of large metropolitan areas.
RUSSELL MEDICAL
The not-for-profit, acute care hospital in Alexander City, Russell Medical, was established a century ago. Now, it is a UAB Health System affiliate with 81 beds and a rehabilitative wing that allows patients easy access to therapy facilities at the in-hospital Total Fitness Center. Also on the Russell Medical campus, the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center is staffed with UAB oncologists and offers treatment for more than 100 forms of cancer. The cancer center opened in 2001.
The Russell Medical campus on U.S. Route 280 includes a professional building where many physicians’ offices are located. An urgent care facility with extended hours for patients’ convenience and a second physician office facility also are located on the Russell Medical campus.
In addition, Phase 1 of a three-part $25 million aging care project was completed in June 2024 and will begin to accept patients this summer. The Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care is part of The Russell Legacy Project, which will include independent, assisted and dependent care facilities. This expansive healthcare project and the care that it will provide to retirees will elevate the Lake Martin area as a retirement destination. Six of the 26 independent living cottages, known as the Hendrix Cottages, also are move-in ready.
Total Fitness at Russell Medical offers a team of therapists and specialists who combine prevention, wellness and health education with physical fitness and rehabilitation services. This team is individual-focused, as each patient has unique needs and goals, said Fitness and Wellness Coordinator Cara Tidwell.
“Our mission is to provide an appropriate and safe exercise prescription for all of our members with their goals in mind,” Tidwell said.
The facility includes two fully equipped gyms, regular exercise classes, personal trainers, a SwimEx endless pool and more. From rehabilitation programs to physical therapy and fitness programs, Total Fitness offers total-body solutions for everyone.
The Russell Medical Foundation, established in 1988 to enhance the quality of life for patients, works to upgrade Russell Medical facilities by securing the latest technology, providing healthcare scholarships, attracting the best medical staff and more. The foundation strives to cultivate lasting relationships between the community and the hospital to generate the best outcomes possible.
Russell Medical is located at 3316 U.S. Route 280 in Alexander City. To learn more about the services Russell
Medical Center provides, visit russellcares.com. To make an appointment at Total Fitness, call 256-329-7623 or 256-215-7455.
MAINSTREET FAMILY CARE
Also located on U.S. Route 280, MainStreet Family Care is a convenient walk-in urgent care and primary care clinic all in one. Open seven days per week, the center keeps later hours for the convenience of patients and their families. MSFC staff has a goal to get patients in and out within an hour. They also offer complimentary water, juice, hot chocolate and coffee, as well as snacks for purchase, to keep you comfortable while you wait.
Walk in for urgent care or make an appointment as a primary care patient. The objective of staff is to operate with respect and professionalism, treating illnesses or injuries and symptomatic problems quickly and efficiently to help patients feel better as soon as possible.
Appointments are offered seven days per week, including during non-traditional hours. Some of the services regularly provided include annual physicals, high blood pressure or cholesterol management, chronic care for asthma, diabetes, obesity and weight loss and more.
MainStreet Family Care is located at 2508 U.S. Route 280 in Alexander City. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. To learn more about their services or to book an appointment, visit mainstreetfamilycare.com or call 256-414-3013.
LAKE MARTIN COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
Part of the Ivy Creek Healthcare System, Lake Martin Community Hospital in Dadeville is fully equipped to care for the medical needs of the community. Patient care does not stop with emergencies and hospital services; primary care services are also available.
The hospital and its practitioners are focused on developing a healthy environment for the community. The doctors and nurses provide support for their patients, as well as education to help them live healthy lifestyles.
Lake Martin Family Medicine, Lake Martin Community Hospital’s primary care branch, is the leading healthcare provider for Dadeville and the surrounding communities. This primary care facility is conveniently located next to the hospital. Lake Martin Family Medicine also has added nutrition counseling to the many services they provide.
More information about Lake Martin Community Hospital and Lake Martin Family Care can be found at ivycreekhealth.com. The hospital is located at 201 Mariarden Road, and the primary care facility is located at 301 Mariarden Road in Dadeville.
last March
GreatSeeArt
Fine arts thrive throughout the area
STORY BY ABIGAIL MURPHY
PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE, BETSY ILER & BEN SMITH
Alexander City's theatre group, Act II, presented a showing of Wait Until Dark
The Lake Martin area is home to all kinds of artistry and music, from community performances to concerts to shows. There are even a few local organizations that keep the arts going all year around. Here are just a few highlights:
Alex City Arts Council
The arts council is a nonprofit organization that aims to bring quality arts performances to the community. This past year, some of its performances included Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame inductee Eric Essix, Alabama Troubadours and The Heart Behind the Music with award winning musicians Cindy Morgan, Lenny LeBlanc and Marty Raybon.
“Financial support for these programs comes from our patrons, the Alabama State Council on the Arts and ticket sales,” said Larry Jennings, treasurer for the Alexander City Arts Council. “Besides that, we are working diligently to provide a variety of quality entertainment that people will enjoy and look forward to seeing.”
Each Alex City Arts Council season is announced in October with a lineup of upcoming performances. Regular updates can be found on the organization’s Facebook page and website.
ACT II
Alexander City Theatre II is a nonprofit community theater group dedicated to showcasing local talent through quality theatrical performances. The group was established in 2015 as a Sun Festival event that has continued to grow and attract volunteers. ACT II productions are presented to the community free of charge, thanks to the generosity of sponsors and donors.
Some of its recent productions include Wait Until Dark, Driving Miss Daisy and A Christmas Carol. The summer children's musical in 2024 was Sister Act Jr
“I love fine arts, and I love the kids that we’ve cast, because it teaches them to get up on stage and to speak out in public,” said Karen Kison, president of ACT II. “So, they’re going to develop great communication skills as adults and not be scared.”
For auditions and show dates of both adult and children’s musicals, ACT II provides regular updates on its Facebook page.
Music Festivals
Along with theatrical productions, the area is home to multiple music festivals.
For Memorial Day weekend, RXR Fest is held each year at Russell Crossroads. Lay out on the lawn for a two-day event filled with music, or grab a bite to eat from local food trucks.
One of the largest music events in Alexander City is the Jazz Festival. Jazz Fest is held on Father’s Day weekend in June and recently celebrated its 34th year. Like RXR Fest, this music festival is a two-day event, with a Friday night concert at Strand Park in Alexander City and Saturday night at the Lake Martin Amphitheater.
Come July, the Lake Martin Songwriters Festival takes over. Singer-songwriter performances are held at bars, restaurants and marinas across the entire area.
“As the festival continues to grow, we bring in more artists. More venues are opened to allow these artists to
come play and expose our community to some really talented people,” said Robert Gunn, a Lake Martin Songwriting Festival committee member. “I think it’s a win for everybody – for those of us who live here, for those who visit here and for those who come to play and sing.”
Visit explorelakemartin.com for music information.
Art Shows
Multiple area art shows feature works from regional and local artists. In May, Russell Crossroads hosts Art on the Lake. Come July, it’s Arti Gras, and at the end of November, there’s the Holiday Bazaar.
Gunn, who is the director of events and marketing operations for Russell Lands, said the Holiday Bazaar offers an alternative to the Black Friday shopping of malls and department stores.
“We knew that for Thanksgiving there were a lot of people that would come into this area – a lot of families get together here,” he said. “It’s an alternative to the hustle and bustle of the big stores. It’s just a laid back, easy shopping experience with a lot of different choices.”
In addition, the Pottery Guild at St. James Espiscopal Church in Alexander City offers their works for sale at an annual November Bazaar. Birhouses, gift baskets, food and more are offered, along with hundred of pieces of pottery. All proceeds fromt he event benefit community outreach programs and organizations.
And Lake Martin Living magazine hosts an art and photography contest with $1,000 in prize money each September. The winning art is featured on the cover of the October magazine, and each artist is featured inside this issue.
To enter, look for details at lakemagazine.life or on the Lake Martin Living magazine Facebook page.
The Eric Essix Group
Arti Gras
Local vets, boarders and groomers to help care for your furry loved ones.
Local Vets
Alexander City Veterinary Clinic 1068 Airport Dr., Alexander City 256-234-6751 | alexcityvet.com
Wayside Animal Hospital 2630 Dadeville Road, Alexander City 256-329-9900
Dadeville Animal Clinic
17830 U.S. Route 280, Dadeville 256-825-9308 | dadevilleanimal.com
Animal Care Center
17309 U.S. Route 280, Dadeville 256-825-6737 | animalcarecenter280.com
Kowaliga Veterinary Care 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic 334-857-1816 | kowaligavet.com
Boarding & Grooming
Southern Star Pet Grooming and Boarding 10390 state Route 259, Alexander City 256-215-5586 | southernstarboard.com
Wagg’n Tails
6068 state Route 63, Alexander City 256-750-3530 | waggntailsal.wixsite.com/mysite
Talli & Friends LLC
792 Commerce Drive, Alexander City 256-392-5664 | talliandfriends.net
Templeton Pet Hotel and Grooming 154-822 Lett St., Dadeville 256-794-0401
Whispering Pines Pet Resort
4240 state Route, Dadeville 334-379-6494 | wpprlakemartin.com
Howlin the Moon Pet Resort LLC
333 Gardner Dairy Road, Dadeville 256-825-4872
Dog Parks
Charles E. Bailey, Sr. Sportplex 1685 Arena Road, Alexander City 256-329-6736 | alexandercityal.gov/parks-rec
Love your pets
STORY BY BETSY ILER
Your pup will be welcome on a leash at most outdoor venues in the Alexander City area. Some events are even planned to honor them, like the Bark in the Park pet show during June’s Sun Festival celebration.
Enjoy visiting the dog park at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex, where fencing, seating and dog attractions make it the perfect place to burn off some energy.
Dogs are welcome on a leash at Strand Park in downtown Alexander City, as well as The Town Green at Russell Crossroads and at Wind Creek State Park. Just remember to always clean up after your pet. Keeping a bag dispenser on the leash is a great way to stay prepared.
There are a few regulations you need to be aware of and follow. The most important are that all dog owners must clean up after their pets (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 39), and all dogs must be on a leash or confined in a home, yard, etc. at all times (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 43).
All dog owners must register their pets with animal control to receive a license and accompanying license tag, which is to be worn by the dog at all times. In order to receive a license, you must have your dog’s rabies tag/certification (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 35).
When the license is issued, animal control will provide a serially numbered tag or decal with the year the license was issued on it. Every dog is required to have its own license and tag, as the serial number will coordinate with the dog listed on the license (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 36)
All dogs must wear both the rabies vaccination
tag and the license tag on the collar/harness (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 37).
Any dog that is trained for guard dog protection must be registered with the city police department, chief of police and animal control. A guard-dog-onduty sign must be posted where it is easily visible (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 46).
Alexander City Police Department maintains an animal control division, and those officers can be called for any issues with animals, including strays, aggressive dogs or dogs that appear to be unwell. Animals that have been picked up by the officers usually are sheltered at Lake Martin Animal Shelter.
If your pet is lost, a call to the animal control officers or the animal shelter might help to bring the pet home quickly. Check social media sites, as owners and finders often post photos and notices of lost-andfound pets on Facebook and other platforms.
If you didn’t bring a pet with you and hope to include one in your new life here, adoption options are available. In addition to the local shelter, veterinarians often know of pets in need of forever homes.
For more information about these or other ordinances, or for information on penalties for violation, visit alexandercityal.gov, or call 256-329-2470. Call Lake Martin Animal Shelter at 256-234-5533.
Check out these local vets, boarders and groomers to help care for your furry loved ones.
the Boat
Kowaliga Marina ⚓
256-397-1210
255 Kowaliga Marina Road, Alexander City, AL 35010
The Ridge Marina ⚓
256-397-1300
450 Ridge Marina Road, Alexander City, AL 35010
River North Marina ⚓
256-397-1500
250 River North Road, Alexander City, AL 35010
Real Island Marina ⚓
256-397-1200
2700 Real Island Road, Equality, AL 36026
Harbor Pointe Marina ⚓
256-825-0600
397 Marina Point Road, Dadeville, AL 36853
Lakeside Marina ⚓
256-825-9286
7361 state Route 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853
Lakeside Marina at Bay Pines ⚓
256-825-0999
3455 Bay Pine Road, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861
Smith Marina on Lake Martin
256-444-8793
1590 Pine Point Road, Alexander City, AL 35010
Anchor Bay Marina ⚓
334-857-2654
2001 Castaway Island Road, Eclectic, AL 36024
Blue Creek Marina ⚓
256-825-8888
7280 AL-49, Dadeville, AL 36853
Parker Creek Marina
256-329-8550
486 Parker Creek Marina Road, Equality, AL 36026
Chuck’s Marina
256-825-7733
237 Marina Road, Dadeville, AL 36853
Wind Creek State Park Marina ⚓
256-329-0845
4325 state Route 128, Alexander City, AL 35010
Alexander City Boat Ramp
2499 Stowe Ferry Road, Alexander City, AL 35010
D.A.R.E. Power Park 4633 Young’s Ferry Road, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861
Elkahatchee Creek Boat Ramp Colley Road, Alexander City, AL 35010
HWY 34 Public Boat Ramp Ramp Road, Dadeville, AL 36853
Horseshoe Bend Park Boat Ramp Daviston, 256-234-7111
Kowaliga Bridge Public Boat Ramp state Route 63, Alexander City
Jaybird Creek Boat Ramp Boone Valley Rd., Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861
New Hope Baptist Church Public Boat Ramp Alexander City, AL 35010
⚓ Boat Rentals
Boat Doc
Stay Informed
It could be easy to assume that the local news in a small town is sparse, or even nonexistent. In many areas, that may be true. As an industry, news has experienced a gradual financial decline, whether it be in print, television or radio. Many stations and newspapers are bought up by large companies who cut costs drastically. Others simply fall out of operation, leaving smaller markets in need of local news. Without a way to record stories about its people and events, a town becomes disconnected from itself.
For the Lake Martin area, however, this is not the case. Take Tallapoosa Publishers Inc., for example, publisher of notable award-winning outlets such as The Alex City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, The Wetumpka Herald and The Tallassee Tribune. Each newspaper is trustworthy, and serves a single, specified area to ensure every story is covered – from million-dollar developments to high school band competitions.
The Outlook is published twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Grab a copy if you have any questions about the latest on high school sports, city council meetings, new businesses, upcoming events and more in Alexander City. Or pick up a copy of The Record, published once a week on Thursdays, for similar information pertaining to Dadeville.
TPI also publishes two monthly magazines, Lake and Lake Martin Living. Both magazines capture the beauty and essence of the Lake Martin area through breathtaking photography and stories that brim with humanity and personality. Lake, as its name suggests, focuses on the activities, events, recreations and people who live on and visit Lake Martin. Stories center on anything from concerts at the Lake Martin Amphitheater to newly finished lake houses. Lake Martin Living focuses on events off the lake – the new developments, the new businesses, the people and leaders that make up towns in both Tallapoosa and Elmore counties.
In addition, TPI publishes five annual special edition magazines: two newcomers’ guides, two progress issues
and a magazine dedicated to Dadeville. To subscribe to any TPI publication, visit alexcityoutlook.com and click on the ‘Subscribe’ button in the top left corner, or call 256-2344281.
The area’s media doesn’t stop at just print, however. The local television station, WAXC TV, covers local lifestyle stories and sports. For Charter cable customers, the station can be found on channel 2. If you don’t have cable, you can always catch up on football games, basketball games and episodes of your favorite programs by visiting the YouTube page @waxctv.
A local favorite of the WAXC TV programming is The Front Porch, a talk show that airs every morning from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. The show is hosted by local celebrity Kenny Dean, who has casual conversations with community figureheads, local athletes, businesses owners and everyone in between. Dean is engaging, funny, charismatic and energetic in his interviews, and his laid-back persona never fails to put guests at ease.
For radio listeners, tune to WRFS-FM 105.1 The Lake, owned and operated by Marble City Media, LLC. This station plays classic hits from the 1970s to the 1990s. Another popular station is 97.5 FM Kowaliga Country, operated by Lake Broadcasting, Inc. 97.5 Kowaliga Country broadcasts from 6 a.m. to midnight seven days a week and reaches Tallapoosa, Coosa and Clay counties, as well as parts of Elmore, Talladega and Lee counties. Tune in for current country music hits, as well as news, weather and events.
Kowaliga Country hosts the popular Lake Martin area musical competition, Kowaliga Idol, the largest talent competition in Central and East Alabama. Kowaliga Idol pits 72 local artists against one another in a monthlong competition that takes place at bars across the area. The winners receive cash prizes and opportunities for career advancement. Now entering its 17th year, the competition is a favorite among locals. Visit wkga975.com/kowaliga-idol/ for more information.
Don’t forget to check out some of TPI’s digital media. There are websites and social media pages for each magazine and newspaper. @TallapoosaPub on TikTok posts funny and quirky behind-the-scenes videos of life working in a newsroom, and Lake and Lake Martin Living magazines have Facebook pages that will help keep you updated on the latest magazine stories.
In addition to TPI’s social media, there are thousands of pages and accounts dedicated to Lake Martin and the communities around it. Church groups, outdoors organizations, recreation groups, annual events pages – there is no shortage of ways to connect with those who share your interests on social media.
If you’re new to the area, and don’t know exactly where to start, always feel free to stop by the offices of Tallapoosa Publishers. We will help you get connected in any way we can.
Youth sports continues increased growth
STORY BY HENRY ZIMMER PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS & COURTSEY OF JOSH BREWER
In his four years as the Alexander City Parks and Rec Athletics Supervisor, Nick Hand has seen steady growth, year after year, in registration for youth baseball, football, softball, basketball, cheerleading and soccer.
In total, about 800 children participated in Alexander City youth sports last year, with over 80 participating in 3 to 4 year-old categories. It’s a far cry from three years ago, when youth sports registration numbers in Alexander City showed a significant decline in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“You can definitely see now that people are getting back out and looking for the next registration,” Hand said.
And the athletes are not just participating; they’re winning.
Last year, the girl’s U-12 softball team won a World Series title, beating out teams from across the Southeast. In the two seasons before, Alexander City softball won two state titles.
In baseball, as multiple youth teams competed in the World Series, and one brought home a World Series title in USSSA and All-American Youth Sports leagues.
Last year, around 90 softball teams from multiple states converged in Alexander City for a weekend of youth softball. The tournament is expected to occur again this year.
“It is incredible for the city to see all these people come in,” Hand said. “It has an influx on tax dollars, money spent in the city.”
After baseball and softball, the biggest sport of all begins: football.
Football registration runs until July 21 and can be accessed on the Parks and Rec website. To encourage more participation, Benjamin Russell football coach Smitty Grider will be hosting a football camp in July. In his first two years with the Wildcats, Grider has sent two teams to the playoffs and numerous athletes to college programs.
Once fall begins, the flag football and tackle circuits will
play on Thursday nights, with the 9, 10 and 11-year-old age groups playing teams from neighboring cities.
Despite being a largely parent-run organization, youth soccer has seen a large swell in participation, as well. The soccer teams are among the best in the state, and their numbers have further increased the size and scope of Alexander City Parks and Recreation youth sports.
“That is a huge amount for a city this size,” Hand said. “Kids are playing with their friends, getting outdoors. It is easy to give a kid video games or something, but you can see something different with this participation.”
With as many moving parts as there are in youth sports, Hand could use all the help he can get. That’s where parent involvement steps in, serving as the backbone of youth sports in Alexander City. To Hand, it’s part of what makes youth sports so special.
“I have coaches that coach every single group that I have,” Hand said. “The parents know those coaches’ hearts are in the right place. And they do an awesome job.”
Youth sports coaches are not paid for their time. Many are just moms and dads who want to help coach their children and their children’s friends. Many of these parent-coached teams go on to represent the city at state tournaments or World Series finals.
Considering how prominent youth sports are in Alexander City, these coaches are some of the first influences on the athletes of tomorrow. Without the help of volunteers, there is no Alexander City youth sports.
“We have a bunch of really good volunteer coaches and some people who are putting their stamps on teams,” Hand said. “Parents are stepping up. There have been a lot of people taking this by the horns.”
There are, however, paid positions within Alexander City youth sports, such as umpires and referees. There is an umpire shortage across the state at all levels, but hardly ever within youth sports locally. Despite the pay being nominal, Hand says umpires are always willing to work in Alexander City.
“They want to come up here. They want to be a part of this,” Hand said. “We have had first-years and seasoned vets. It takes 100 hands to come out and make this happen.”
From a mom supplying orange slices to a group of parents caravanning across state lines to get their kids to a game, the parents are an integral factor in the growth and success of youth sports in Alexander City. That involvement and love trans-
Youth enrollment in soccer has increased steadily
lates onto the fields and courts, and oftentimes, to a trophy cabinet.
“It takes all of these people for our programs to be successful,” Hand said. “It is probably why we have had the success we have had – because of the people.”
While Hand admits that even he likes to see winning, that isn’t the ultimate goal. In the end, youth sports are about everyone getting out there and potentially making that one tackle, that one goal or that one shot they remember for the rest of their lives.
“That is something, no matter what, that we can offer,” Hand said. “That is what we are here for. It’s for everyone to be successful. It is about fun. Our coaches do a really good job of keeping that fun aspect while keeping things competitive. That is what is so beautiful about rec sports.”
No matter the skill set, Hand and his coaches get everyone involved. Hand said he knows his mom still has newspaper clippings of him as a youth athlete, and he wants the same for everyone who participates in the local leagues.
“For us to have bigger leagues, we have to get all the kids involved,” Hand said. “If every kid isn’t having fun, we won’t have a good league. The good thing about rec sports is it’s a way for kids of all aspects and all different stages of life to all come together and learn to love a game.”
If there is one thing about Alexander City, it is that its people care about sports, and they do so while also caring about each other. When the jerseys are donned, with Alexander City stamped across the chest, it becomes more than a game. It becomes about pride. And that is something Hand can hang his hat on.
“The city as a whole, the group of volunteers lets us be successful,” Hand said. “At the end, everyone comes together. You get to compete as Team Alex City. We take a lot of pride in putting Alex City on the front of our jerseys.”
If you are insterested in marketing your business please contact us today.
The Alexander city softball 12U team took first place in the state World Series last July
WHAT'S Happening
The Lake Martin area is a year round destination with activities, music festivals, art shows, live theatre and more every month. Check out the calendar pages in Lake and Lake Martin Living magazines, as well as The Alex City Outlook, for the full calendar of events.
JANUARY
➤ First Day Hike
Start the New Year right and join the naturalist at Wind Creek State Park for a morning hike on New Year’s Day. You might discover that winter life bustles in the forest, and you’ll certainly get some exercise. Visit alapark.com/parks/wind-creekstate-park for details.
➤ Polar Plunge
This annual departure from sanity raises funds for the Lake Martin Resource Association buoy program, which maintains more than 400 safety, hazard and lighted buoys around the lake for the safety of boaters and swimmers year round. Plungers can pick a theme and dress in costume to win a cash prize. Not into plunging into frigid lake waters in January? Spectators are welcome! Come out for the music, food and fun. Visit lakemartinyp.org for information.
FEBRUARY
➤ Valentine’s Charity Ball
This annual evening of music and dinner out includes a silent auction, steak dinner and a great time with your sweetheart. It also raises funds for Lake Martin Area United Way and the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce. Visit websites and Facebook pages for both organizations for details.
➤ Russell Forest Run
Come out to walk or run this 5K or 10K that raises money for Alexander City Schools Education Foundation special projects. ACSEF furnished students with their first iPads and
installed air conditioning in school busses, among other worthwhile projects. The party after the run includes a live band, beer, a grits bar and the awards ceremony. Register at russellforestrun.com.
MARCH
➤
Water Cycle
Sponsored by Alabama Power, this bicycle event starts and ends at Martin Dam. Sign up for the 15, 30 or 60-mile ride to benefit Auburn University's Engineers Without Borders USA. EWB helps to provide drinking water for people in third world countries. Riders gets T-shirts, bags of goodies and a fabulous lunch when they come in off the trail. For details check out ewb.auburn.edu/ watercycle.
➤ Dadeville Chili Cook-off
Warm up on a cool spring day with a hot cup of chili to benefit Lake Mrtin Dadeville Chamber of Commerce. Prizes are awarded for best chili and best looking booth. Go whole hog and put your chili on a hot dog. Local musicians play all day. Visit the chamber's website or Facebook page for details.
APRIL
➤ Old 280 Boogie
Bring chairs and blankets to help the quaint burb of Waverly celebrate the day U.S. Route 280 was diverted to bypass the town. Standard Deluxe hosts this two-day event with music all day, food, vendors and T-shirts. Visit standdarddeluxe.com for details.
➤ In-water Boat Shows
Visit your favorite marinas around the lake for boat show discounts on vessels and gear. These shows include food, music and fun, too!
MAY
➤ Derby Day
Kick off spring at the lake with a good old fashioned horse race.
River Fest
Jazz Fest
Hometown Christmas Parade
Russell Lands hosts this Derby Day event at The Stables at Russell Crossroads with mint juleps, a cake auction and opportunities to raise money for Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. It's all free, and there are prizes for the best hats and most dapper seer-sucker suits. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for details.
➤ Blues in the Park
Pack lawn chairs, coolers and lots of sun screen for a full day of fun at Strand Park in Alexander City. This free music festival includes vendor booths, music and specials at local restaurants in the downtown entertainment district from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
JUNE
➤ Sun Festival
Alexander City Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual celebration of summer with more than a week of activities and music, culminating in the annual Jazz Fest in Strand Park. Bring the kids out for water slides in the park, big trucks on Main Street and more. Find the festival's medallion and win $200. Visit alexcitychamber.com for details.
➤ River Fest
Sign up early for this 6-mile paddle on the Tallapoosa River’s Harold Banks Canoe Trail, hosted by Lake Martin Tallapoosa County Tourism. There are only 150 slots, and they go fast! New Site hosts a great festival for this event, with trade day booths, a cornhole tournament, music and more. Check out the New Site River Festival Facebook page or visit explorelakemartin.com.
➤ Day of Action
Volunteers help get local schools ready for the upcoming school year when Lake Martin Area United Way springs into action. Projects include landscaping, painting, cleaning and more.
JULY
➤ Celebrate Freedom
Come out to the Benjamin Russell High School lawn for patriotic displays, live Christian music, food and fireworks. No pets and no alcohol.
➤ Farmers Market
Main Street Alexander City hosts a farmers market on Calhoun Street every Saturday morning all summer long. In addition to plump blueberries, crisp vegetables and sweet peaches, there are jams, jellies and bread, as well as fresh baked goods, jewelry and more.
➤ Arti Gras
Visit this annual juried art show under the big tent on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Held on the holiday weekend in July, this show boasts pottery, artwork, boutique clothing, jewelry and other works by artisans from across the Southeast. For details, visit russelllands.com/ blog/events.
AUGUST
➤ Alexander City Chamber Open
Pick your best golfers for this annual golf tournament, hosted by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. Great prizes, fabulous food and fellowship are on the agenda, and sponsorships are available. Contact the chamber at 256-234-3461 for more information.
SEPTEMBER
➤ Labor Day Music Fest
The summer ends with a two-day concert series at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Details are posted at russelllands.com/blog/events.
➤ College Football
Your favorite lake area venues tune in to the games with food and drink specials. Catch all the games at Lake Martin. Visit lake venue Facebook pages for special promotions.
OCTOBER
➤ Dadeville Fall Festival
Celebrate the best season at Lake Martin in downtown Dadeville. Just off the square, the streets are lined with vendors, inflatables for the kids, performing musicians and lots of food, courtesy of Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce. Call 256-825-4019 or visit the chamber’s Facebook page for more information.
➤ Oktoberfest
Join the daylong celebration at Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City, featuring a car show, arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities, music and entertainment, food and more.
NOVEMBER
➤ Renew Our Rivers
Alabama Power and Lake Martin Resource Association team up to clean the shoreline and roadways at Lake Martin. Hundreds of volunteers visit supply and drop-off sites all around the lake for this annual event that helps to keep Lake Martin clean. To join the effort, visit lmra.info.
➤ Annual Holiday Open House
Alexander City Chamber of Commerce launches the local holiday shopping season with an open house showcasing festive decorations, gifts and seasonal specials. Bring the kids to meet Santa Claus and have their pictures taken. Call 256-234-3461 for more information.
DEECEMBER
➤ ACT II Christmas play
Alexander City Theatre II presents its annual Christmas play, showcasing the talents and abilities of local townspeople with classic scripts, great sets and quality productions with free admission. Visit the Alexander City Theatre II Facebook page or actheatre2.com for announcements.
➤ Hometown Christmas Parade
Presented by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, the annual holiday parade winds through the streets with elaborate floats, dancers, bands, Santa and Mrs. Claus and more. Call 256-234-3461 for entry information, the theme for this year’s parade and route details.
For a complete list of calendar events visit alexandercityoutlook.com/ local-events.
Get Connected
Once you’ve finalized your moving plans, it’s time to get connected –internet; utilities; mail and package deliveries; car tags; driver’s license and voter’s registration. Attend to these errands early, so you can settle into your new community and start making new friends.
INTERNET
A variety of business can be transacted quickly and easily online, so you’ll want to secure internet service early. Thanks to the Alabama Rescue Plan, internet access and speeds in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties are increasing at a rapid rate. ARP made grant monies available to extend internet service to rural areas with low population density.
Local cable television and internet services for business and residential customers in Alexander City and portions of the Lake Martin area are provided by Charter Spectrum. Visit spectrum.com to get started. In selected areas, Troy Cable also provides residential service. Get started at troycable.net. Satellite television services are available in outlying areas. Starlink, DirecTV and Dish TV provide satellite service in the area. Check out the websites at starlink.com, directv.com or dish.com for packages and pricing.
UTILITIES
Alexander City owns and maintains natural gas, electrical, sewer and water distributions systems, serving approximately 8,000 customers. These services are billed on one monthly statement, along with curbside garbage pick up, which is contracted through GFL Environmental.
Visit the Alexander City Municipal Complex in person at 281 James D. Nabors Drive between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to activate utility services. You will need to provide a Social Security number for a soft credit check, as well as driver’s license or other federal or state identification. You also will be required to sign a consent for collections of delinquent utility accounts. The City will run a credit check and charge a service deposit based on your credit score.
Once service has been established, pay your monthly bill using one of four methods: online; at one of three 24-hour drop boxes; in person at the municipal complex; or by mail.
Pay online at alexandercityal.gov/community/page/pay-my-bill. You will be required to provide your account number and service address.
Drop boxes are located at Cooper Rec Center at 625 ML King Jr. Blvd. in Alexander City; at the municipal complex on James D. Nabors Drive; and at the old City Hall building in downtown Alexander City. Pay in person at the municipal complex with a debit or credit card, check or cash, or mail payment to 281 James D. Nabors Drive, Alexander City AL 35010.
Alabama Power provides electrical service for a few addresses within city limits. Start Alabama Power service online at customerservice2. southerncompany.com or by calling 800-245-2244. This number can also be called to report power outages for Alabama Power customers.
GARBAGE PICK UP
GFL Environmental provides weekly curbside garbage collection for Alexander City. Call 256-329-6710 to set up service. Visit alexandercityal.gov/waste/page/garbage-pickup for the collection date for your address. Elderly or disabled city residents may request back-door pick-up service by contacting the mayor’s assistant at 256-329-6730.
The City of Alexander City provides a brush pick-up service to residents in city limits. Residents also may dispose of limbs, leaves, tires, furniture, construction debris and similar items at the city landfill at 1507 N. Central Avenue. Bring a recent utility bill to prove residency. Visit alexandercityal.gov/waste/page/north-central-ave-inert-landfill
for a fee schedule. The landfill is open 6:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
DRIVER’S LICENSE & VEHICLE REGISTRATION
Apply for a new driver’s license or renew an existing license at the Department of Motor Vehicles in the Courthouse Annex at 395 Lee Street in Alexander City. Hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Testing is conducted only on the third Tuesday and Wednesday of each month.
Driver’s license renewals also may be obtained at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse at 125 N. Broadnax Street in Dadeville. Offices in both locations are open 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
If you have moved from out of state and have an out-of-state driver’s license, you will need to surrender your out-of-state license and take an eye examination.
Vehicle registrations can also be completed in both locations. Bring the title, bill of sale, insurance card and valid driver’s license. While the offices are open until 4:30 p.m., no title work is processed after 4 p.m.
Special tags also are available.
VOTER REGISTRATION
Stop in at Room 20 in the Tallapoosa County Courthouse between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to register to vote or to update your address or other registration information. For any election, the last day to register to vote or to update your voter registration is the 15th day prior to the election. To register, you must be a citizen of the United States and must live in the State of Alabama. You must be at least 18 years of age on or before election day.
Register online at sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes/voter/registerto-vote. Or download the Alabama Voter Registration Form at that same address; then, print, complete and mail the form to Board of Registrars, Tallapoosa County Courthouse, 125 N. Broadnax Street, Room 20, Dadeville AL 36853.
MAIL AND PACKAGE DELIVERIES
Change your mailing address online at usps.com or in person at the Alexander City Post Office at 233 Lee Street. The office is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturdays. Post office boxes are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s best to file this address change about a week before you actually move, so you don’t miss any important mail deliveries. And be sure to notify banks, credit card companies and investment companies, as well as family, friends and favorite charities with your new address.
To send packages via courier, visit Goin’ Postal at 2036 Cherokee Road in Alexander City. This private business accepts shipments for UPS, FedEx, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service. They are open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and provide additional services, including fax and copy service, private mailboxes, stamp sales and notary services.
Know Your Elected Officials
ALABAMA
Kay Ivey Governor 334-242-7100
600 Dexter Ave. Montgomery, AL
TALLAPOOSA COUNTY
T.C. Coley District 1 256-234-5325
2316 N. Central Ave. Kellyton, AL
Steve Marshall Attorney General 334-242-7300
501 Washington Ave. Montgomery, AL
Ed Oliver (R) 81st District 334-803-1889
11 S. Union St., Ste. 410-B Montgomery, AL
Tom Whatley 27th District 334-242-7865
11 S. Union St., Ste. 734 Montgomery, AL
Clyde Chambliss Jr. Senate District 30 334-343-7883 clyde.chambliss@alsenate.gov
Steve Robinson District 2 256-654-0047
1225 Warren Circle Alexander City, AL
John McKelvey District 3 256-825-4268
125 N. Broadnax St. Dadeville, AL
Emma Jean Thweatt District 4 256-825-4207
585 Brookwood Circle Dadeville, AL
George Carleton Jr. District 5 256-825-4268
125 N. Broadnax St. Dadeville, AL
Contact one of your local representatives for concerns about state, county or city issues.
ALEXANDER CITY
Woody Baird Mayor 256-329-6730
James D. Nabors Dr. Alexander City, AL
Bobby Tapley District 1 Chairman – Public Safety Committee 256-392-0344 1821 LaVista Rd. Alexander City, AL
Buffy Colvin District 2 Chairman – Buildings & Property Committee 256-750-0663
786 "I" St. Alexander City, AL
Scott Hardy District 3 Chairman – Parks & Recreation Committee 256-496-2450
183 Glenhaven Dr. Alexander City, AL
Eric Brown District 4 Chairman – Public Works Committee 256-397-2811 1421 Parrish Dr. Alexander City, AL
Chris Brown District 5 Chairman – Utilities Committee
256-496-2050
191 Hillside Dr. Alexander City, AL
Public Safety & Governmental Meetings
PUBLIC SAFETY
To contact the local police department, fire department or sheriff’s department, call one of the numbers listed below, and someone will be able to assist you. All emergency calls should be made to 911, and the appropriate department will be dispatched.
ALEXANDER CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
Chief: Jay Turner
Address: 281 James D. Nabors Dr. in Alexander City
Phone: 256-397-1023
Dispatch: 256-234-3421
Office hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
ALEXANDER CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT
Chief: Reese McAlister
Address: 281 James D. Nabors Dr. in Alexander City Station 1 phone: 256-329-6780 or 256-329-6781
Station 2 phone: 256-329-6788
Burning permits: 256-329-6781
Fire marshal: 256-329-6761
TALLAPOOSA COUNTY
SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
Sheriff: Jimmy Abbett
Address: 316 Industrial Park Dr. in Dadeville
Phone: 256-825-4264
Fax: 256-825-1012
Email: tallapoosacounty.sheriff@gmail.com
Secret witness line: 256-827-2035
COOSA COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT
Sheriff: Michael Howell
Address: 296 School St. in Rockford
Phone: 256-377-4922
Fax: 256-377-2690
Email: office@coosaso.com
GOVERNMENT AND TOWN MEETINGS
n Alexander City Board of Education meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. at 375 Lee St.
n Alexander City City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in the City Council Chamber at the Municipal Complex at 5:30 p.m.
n Camp Hill Town Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in Town Hall at 6 p.m.
n Community Action Agency of Chambers, Tallapoosa and Coosa counties holds its regular board of directors meetings every other month at the Central Office in Dadeville.
n Coosa County Board of Education holds called meetings at least once a month.
n Coosa County Commission meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Coosa County Courthouse in Rockford at 9:30 a.m.
n Coosa County Industrial Development Board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Commissioners Board Room in the courthouse in Rockford. All meetings are open to the public.
n Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. with a pre-meeting at 5:15 p.m. in the conference room of City Hall.
n Daviston Town Hall Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department.
n Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Town Hall.
n Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held at the Community Center at 6:30 p.m.
n Jacksons Gap Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in Town Hall at 6:30 p.m. and all Jacksons Gap citizens are encouraged to attend.
n Kellyton Town Council meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Kellyton Community Center.
n New Site Town Council meets the first and third Monday of the month at 5 p.m. in the conference room in the Town Hall.
n Ray Water Authority meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Ray Water Authority Office. All customers are invited to attend.
n Rockford Town Council meets the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in Town Hall at 6 p.m.
n Tallapoosa County Board of Education meets on the second Monday of each month at 5 p.m. Meetings are held in the central office at 679 E. Columbus St. in Dadeville.
n Tallapoosa County Commission meets the second Monday of the month at 9 a.m. in the courthouse in Dadeville, with a pre-meeting also open to the public 30 minutes before each regular session.
n Tallapoosa County 911 Board meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. in the 911 Administrative office at 240 W. Columbus St. in Dadeville. Call 256-825-984 for more information.
n Walnut Hill Water Authority meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited. Call 256-825-9841 to inquire about the agenda.
ALEXANDER CITY CHAMBER MEMBERS DIRECTORY
121 Disposal Company LLC
334-703-3950
1220 Café
334-252-1220
1409 Posh
334-201-2204
4th Quarter Sportz Bar and Lounge
205-784-6339
A & E Metal Roofing Supply
256-329-0034
A & M Plumbing, LLC
256-234-5260
AAA General Contractors
256-329-9843
Abernathy & Britton, CPA
256-234-3561
ABS Business Systems
334-329-7000
Access Auburn
Achievement Center-Easter Seals
334-745-3501
Adams Health & Rehab
256-329-0847
Adelia M. Russell Public Library
256-329-6796
Adelia Russell Charitable Foundation
256-212-1412
Adobe
ADS Security
334-749-4180
Advance America
256-212-9383
Advance Computer Systems & Home Automation
256-626-1617
Advanced Heating & Air
256-234-5052
AIDB Senior Services
256-761-3575
AL & GA Network Group
Alabama B.A.S.S. Nation 256-749-6053
Alabama Civil Rights Tourism Association 205-601-6668
Alabama Education Association
Alabama Municipal Electric Authority 334-387-3501
Alabama Office of Apprenticeship
Alabama Paper & Supply, Co.
256-839-1050
Alabama Power Company
205-561-4141
Alabama Technology Network
Alex City 12U Softball All Stars
Alex City Garage Doors
256-825-5869
Alex City Glass Co.
256-234-2765
Alex City Grading 256-234-2765
Alex City Marine Sales & Service, LLC 256-215-3474
Alex City Nutrition 256-496-8284
Alex City Parkway Apartments 256-234-6869
Alex City Plumbing 256-494-7117
Alex City Reformed Baptist Church 256-289-7858
Alex City Tobacco & Vapor 313-231-7750
Alex City Transmission 256-234-6230
Alex City Youth Soccer
Alexander City 50+
Alexander City Arts, Inc. 256-749-8073
Alexander City Board of Education 256-234-5074
Alexander City Career Center 256-414-6146
Alexander City Chamber of Commerce
256-234-3461
Alexander City Dental Care & Dr.
James Leonard & Myles Wiggins 256-234-5003
Alexander City Fire Department
Alexander City Horse Riding Club
Alexander City Housing Authority 256-329-2201
Alexander City Kiwanis Club 256-329-7445
Alexander City Lion's Club
Alexander City Meals on Wheels 256-329-7382
Alexander City Methodist Church 256-329-1284
Alexander City Middle School 256-234-8660
Alexander City Parks & Recreation 256-329-6736
Alexander City Photograpic Soceity
Alexander City Police Department
Alexander City Rotary Club
Alexander City Schools Education Foundation 256-496-2424
Alexander City Theatre (ACT II)
Alexander City Veterinary Clinic 256-234-6751
ALFA Insurance 256-329-0544
Alicia Crew, Independent Beauty Consultant/ Mary Kay 256-794-3419
All Clear Plumbing & Air LLC
2564962056
Allegiance Staffing, Inc.
256-329-3477
Allen Food Marts, Inc. 256-245-5478
AllState Insurance, Parmer Agency 256-215-3833
Alpha Septic Sanitation LLC 256-827-9021
American Inn
256-329-8858
American Red Cross 256-234-3291
America's Thrift Stores 256-445-4978
AmFirst 205-320-4156
Anderson Headstones & Memorials 256-794-2686
Animal Care Center
Anytime Fitness 256-329-1004
Aral Investments LLC 256 392-6163
Area 57 Furnishings 870-632-9091 ARISE 256-329-8444
Armour's Funeral Home 256-234-2776
Armstrong-Holley Plumbing 256-392-3809
Aronov Realty Management 334-277-1000
Artist Association of Central Alabama
As Close As Family 256-392-6560
Ashley Homestore, Opelika 334-363-0440
At Your Service 256-392-3479
Athletic Department
Auburn IT, LLC 334-625-1770
Auburn Productions 334-539-7368
Audrey Moore, TLC Real Estate LLC 256-786-0465
Autism Soceity of Alabama 1-877-4AUTISM
Azalea Court I & II 256-234-9999
Azalea Cove Waterside
B.A.B. Trust 805-462-8342
Badcock Home Furniture & More 256-392-5501
Ballard Construction Co., Inc. 256-329-3771
Ballard Properties, LLC 256-749-0976
Barbara's Studio of Dance 256-329-1163
Barnes & Radney
Benjamin Russell High School 256-234-8611
Benton Clearing & Grading, Inc. 256-329-1631
Best Copy Products, Inc. 334-749-2378
Beta Sigma Phi XIXI Chapter 256-397-4157
Beyond Home Care, LLC 256-414-6090
Bice Motors, Inc. 256-234-2501
Big B Bar-B-Que 256-329-9996
Big Dog Bar-B-Q (941) 348-5418
Bill Nichols State Veterans Home 256-329-0868
Bill's Electric 256-234-4555
Blalock Williams 334-703-3454
Blossman Gas 251-331-0423
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of AL 334-213-6634
Blue Ridge Mountain Water 334-273-1119
Bob White Motel Boosters 334-263-4711
Bowden Oil
Boy Scouts Troup 169
Bradberry Pointe Apartments 256-393-4336
Browder & Welborn, LLC 205-349-1910
Brown Land Management 256-397-2811
Brown Nursing Home, LLC 256-329-9061
Bru 63 256-215-7077
Buck's Dairy Quik 256-392-3565
Burger King 256-329-2317
Burke's Outlet 256-212-2014
C & T Electric 256-234-0007
Caldwell Electronics 256-329-8000
Call Kenny 256-596-2529
Carib Kitchen 256-392-4433
Carlisle Heating & Air Conditioning 256-234-0019
Carlisle's 256-392-4622
Castelluccio Fine Italian Dining 256-392-5604
Cater 2 Cops 256-675-0401
Catherine's Market 256-215-7070
Catie Radney Studio 256-749-1317
Cemwall Systems, Inc. 1-888-CEMWALL
Central Alabama Community College 256-234-6346
Central Alabama Counseling, LLC 256-329-3399
Central Alabama Electric Cooperative
Central Alabama Works! 334-300-8592
Central State Bank
CES Industries 256-409-8070
Chamber Bugle
Channell Comfort Cooling & Heating, LLC 256-786-0367
Chapman Healthcare & Assisted Living 256-234-6366
Charlene's Pet Grooming 256-786-1050
Charles Forbus Art & Design 256-749-7544
Charter HR 256-234-6234
Cherokee Quick Stop 256-329-9556
Chevalier Productions, LLC 256-835-0360
Chick-fil-A
Child Care Resource Center 334-749-8400
Children's Harbor 334-857-2133
Chique Hair & Nails 256-392-5505
Chuck Britton Construction, Inc 256-749-5774
Cindy Scroggins Real Estate, LLC 256-794-3372
City of Alexander City 256-329-6701
Clark Holmes Smith Oral Facial Surgery 256-397-9170
Clash Pressure Washing 659-210-3445
Clean Start Pressure Washing 256-675-0401
Clear Pay Processing 256-276-1240
Cloud Nine 256-329-9797
Clydesdale Importers & Exporters 205-746-3800
CMC Recycling 256-329-0585
Coalition Construction Services
Coley Real Estate Company 256-234-3467
Colonial Apartments 256-234-2117
Concrete Pros, LLC 256-596-1223
Congressman Mike Rogers Office Conservancy Travel 205-601-6668
Constellation, Inc. 256-215-7100
Continental Roofing Company Cooper, Katharine M.D. 256-234-2464
Coosa County Sheriff's Office Corbin, Tim, M.D. 256-234-4295
Cornerstone First Global Methodist Church 256-801-1746
Cornerstone Insurance, Scotty Gordon Agency 334-559-8889
Country Financial, Dylan Johnson Agency 256-750-0558
Country Financial, Shannon Works Agency
Country Financial, Shelia Martin Agency 256-329-3020
Covey Rise Magazine 256-329-3020
Craftmaster Printers Inc.
Creekside Lodge & Event Center 256-749-1301
Cutwater Marine Services, LLC 256-392-4276
Dadeville Animal Clinic 256-825-9308
Dadeville High School
Dadix, Inc.
256-749-5500
Dairy Creem
256-234-6199
Dan Barnett, RealtorA 334-329-2303
Dark Insurance Agency
256-234-5026
Data Plus Security, LLC
205-994-6130
Days Inn
256-234-6311
DE General
205-414-7501
Deep Water Services, LLC
256-373-3220
Densmore, Mike & Patsy- Coe
256-749-9355
Depot Storage
256-329-3599
Derek Holcombe, M.D.
256-329-2829
Dianne James Davis, Attorney at Law
256-392-3172
Dianne Naler CPA, PC 256-409-1120
Disabled American Veterans, Bill Nichols Chapter 13 719-360-5027
Discovering The Jewish Messiah Ministry
256-794-3006
Distinct Home Inspection, LLC
256-749-5340
District Attorney's Office
Divine Treats
256-496-4684
Dixie Electric
Dixie Sailing Club
256-392-9372
Docks Unlimited 256-203-8400
Doc's Boat and RV Storage 256-675-9171
Doc's Cafeteria
Domino's Pizza 256-329-2236
Downtown Girl
256-392-5225
Durbin Chiropractic Center
256-234-4223
E & L Lemonade
205-269-1615
Early Learning Center (ELC First Baptist)
256-392-4438
Early Rose Baptist Church
256-234-6607
East Alabama Allergy & Asthma
334-528-0078
East Alabama Mental Health
334-742-2112
East Alabama Regional Planning & Development Commission
256-237-6741
East Dale Realty 256-749-8772
Easter Seals Camp ASCCA 256-825-9226
Eddie & B's Carwash & Produce 256-749-2947
Edward Jones 256-329-9136
Effective Signs 334-749-0001 EMGS
Emporium Wine 256-212-9463
Endless Possibilities 256-234-0887
Engineered Cooling Services 334-224-2349
EnviroCare (Lex Wedgeworth Pest Control) 256-234-6162
Evergreen Siteworks, LLC 334-748-9191
Exit Realty Anchor South 334-402-5028
Exit Realty Anchor South Nancy Pemberton 256-794-6700
Exit Realty Anchor South, Angela Smith 256-397-4400
Experience Lake Martin Properties, Stacey McKinley 256-397-0246
EZ Fix, LLC
EZ Storage 256-794-2809
Family Eye Care 256-329-8400
Fanny Goldmine Diner
Farmers Insurance, Mary Jo Johnson Agency 256-409-8080
FAWNBROOK home market 256-373-3080
Felder Services, LLC 256-215-3794
Ferst Readers of Tallapoosa County 706-590-1175
Fire Website Hosting & Design 856-845-4327
FireTruck Bar B Que 205-612-4530
First Baptist Church 256-234-6351
First Insurance 256-329-0888
First Realty of Alexander City 256-234-5163
First United Methodist Church 256-417-4571
Flint Hill Church 256-234-5047
Float Alabama 256-373-3004
For Heaven's Sake 256-234-0730
Frontline Outfitters 256-409-8100
Full Draw Graphic Studios 256-794-5466
Funding Solutions 512-382-7270
Gateway at Lake Martin 502-558-8698
GCI Design 850-217-8155
GFL Solid Waste Southeast LLC 800-243-5580
Gizmo Electronics Repair
Globe Chemical Company 404-294-5081
Globe Life Liberty National Division
404- 276-0892
Goin Postal 2562343737
Goo Goo Express Wash (706) 563-6110
Grace's Flowers
256-234-4238
Grain & Leaf 256-496-2212
Great Bethel Baptist Church 256-234-5513
Green Monster Fishing Light, Inc. 334-332-0002
Greyhound Lines, Inc. 800-231-2222
Griffin's Outdoor Power Equipment Sales & Service LLC 256-839-6607
Gunn Homes & Land 256-749-4867
Guy Industries 256-496-0023
Hackneyville Volunteer Fire Department
Hagler & Brocato, LLC 205-988-5297
Half Moon Market & Interiors 256-392-5600
Hampton Inn 256-234-2244
HarborTouch Services of AL 205-567-0622
Hardy, George D.M.D. 256-234-5678
Hare & Dunlap CPA Group PC 256-234-6364
Harper Grey 256-392-7525
Harrell Orthodonic Specialist 256-234-6353
Harris Painting, LLC 256-794-2969
Harrison Law Services 256-825-7393
Hawkins Outdoors
256-675-0044
Healing Hearts Professional Counseling
Health Partners of New Site
Heart and Sold Boutique, LLC 256-794-4618
Heart of Alabama Food Bank 334-263-3784
HEMCO Inc. 256-825-9511
Henderson & Coker 256-329-9001
Henderson Glass 256-234-5464
Henderson Towing 256-392-4554
Heritage Pediatrics, LLC 256-537-9091
Heritage South Credit Union 256-245-4776
HighPoint Insurance Group-The Daughtry Agency 256-234-7781
Hill Petroleum 256-839-6331
Hillabee Forestry Co., LLC 256-397-4287
Hillabee Towers 256-329-0552
Hoar Construction
Holena Agency 334-430-9165
Holley's Home Furnishings 256-234-4141
Holloway Funeral Home 256-390-3092
Holman Floor Company 256-234-6071
Home Depot 256-234-6399
HomeRN
Homes By Indianwood, Inc 205-987-9112
Hometown Pharmacy 256-329-0900
Horseshoe Bend National Military Park 256-234-7111
Horseshoe Bend Regional Library 256-825-9232
Horseshoe Bend School
Huddle House 256-215-7267
Hutchins Backhoe & Septic Service 256-404-5376
Idle Time Family Center 256-329-8366
In Touch Adult Day Health 256-392-3445
IndusTree Companies 334-398-0375
Inprint4U 256-749-1114
Instant Auto, LLC 256-392-4744
Insurance Solutions Group 256-307-2536
Integrative Massage of Alexander City, LLC 256-252-7644
Ivy Creek Home Health of Lake Martin 256-397-1440
Ivy Creek Hospice 256-825-3272
J & J Pest Away 256-496-0169
J.A. Smith Construction 334-531-0199
Jackson Apothecary 256-392-3448
Jackson Drugs & Gifts 256-234-2538
Jackson Refrigeration 256-234-4457
Jackson's Gap Boat Storage & Marine Services 256-827-9393
JACO Sales 256-500-4305
Jacob's Ladder Learning Center 256-234-5783
Jake's 256-234-4300
James Chiropractic Center 256-234-2233
Jeff Thompson Alfa Insurance 256-329-0544
Jehovah-Jireh Ministries (New Millienium) 256-215-4211
Jes and Gray Living 256-430-2356
Jewels by Audrey 256-794-9697
Jim Bob's Chicken Fingers 256-215-3998
Jim Pearson Elementary School 256-234-8625
JK USA Staffing 256-392-4924
JLT Event and Rentals 256-322-3211
Jodi Edner & Michelle WatkinsInsurance Agents 334-413-3101
Joyful Insurance Solutions 256-786-1523
K2 Self Storage 256-794-9954
KBecks Transport
Kenneth Cochran Photography 256-234-3399
Kerley Clinic of Chiropractic 256-749-6039
Kerley Motor Company 256-234-5331
Kevin Dean Construction, LLC 256-212-4292
KFC
Kilpatrick Photography Lake Martin
Kimberly Bellino, Attorney at Law 256-392-9060
Kona Ice 256-794-8197
Koon's Korner 256-234-3557
Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035
Kowaliga Veterinary Care 334-857-1816
L & B Towing
Lake Area Homes, Angela VanHouten 256-596-0566
Lake Area Realty, Inc. 256-825-4800
Lake Broadcasting 256-234-6464
Lake Martin Amphitheater 256-397-1019
Lake Martin Animal Sanctuary 334-380-6250
Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors 256-234-7522
Lake Martin Area Economic Development Alliance 256-215-4404
Lake Martin Area United Way 256-329-3600
Lake Martin Auburn Club 256-234-3609
Lake Martin Boutique 334-552-0310
Lake Martin Brewing 256-397-5747
Lake Martin Christian Academy 256-794-4313
Lake Martin Civitan Club 256-404-5858
Lake Martin Commercial Group, LLC 256-896-1400
Lake Martin CPA 334-494-6963
Lake Martin Dock Company 334-857-2443
Lake Martin Garden Shop 256-252-4988
Lake Martin Garments, LLC 256-861-0560
Lake Martin HOBOs 256-825-0919
Lake Martin Landlord Association 256-749-3355
Lake Martin Locations, Team Jager-Yager 205-789-0698
Lake Martin Machine Gun 334-202-0507
Lake Martin Medical Aesthetics 256-307-4224
Lake Martin Medical Center 256-212-9300
Lake Martin Memorials 256-794-1334
Lake Martin Mini Mall 334-857-3900
Lake Martin Mulching & Excavation 256-794-7393
Lake Martin Painting, LLC
256-392-5200
Lake Martin Party Company
Lake Martin Physical Therapy 256-329-8180
Lake Martin Pizza Co 484-366-4048
Lake Martin Realty 256-212-1498
Lake Martin Realty Rhonda Jaye
Lake Martin Realty, Damon Story 205-789-9526
Lake Martin Realty, Jim Cleveland 256-596-2220
Lake Martin Realty, Steve Arnberg
Lake Martin Resource Association 256-329-0835
Lake Martin Signature Construction 256-392-5577
Lake Martin Storm Shelters
Lake Martin Tan Bar 256-596-2996
Lake Martin Tourism Association
256-414-6099x110
Lake Martin Tractor & Outdoor, LLC 256-329-9536
Lake Martin Trailblazers
Lake Martin TV 205-902-8035
Lake Martin Wedding & Event Rentals
256-794-2984
Lake Outdoors Marine 256-392-4801
Lamberth, Brooks & Sally D. M. D. 256-234-6401
Larry E. Speaks & Associates, Inc 334-262-1091
Larry McAnally Construction 256-496-2987
Law Office of Kathryn M. WayneSpindler, P.C.
800-809-9414
Law, Vincent MD
256-234-4295
LED Solution
334-799-6495
Lee Apparel
256-825-0197 ext 1
Lee Marketing Group
256-825-0197
Legacy Event Center
256-589-5067
Legacy New Homes, LLC
334-799-3922
Lewis Pest Control 256-329-1018
Liberty National Life, Angela Hanson Agency 256-234-2556
Life Point Church
LifeSouth Blood Center East 334-705-0884
Lighthouse of Tallapoosa County 256-234-4894
Lil A Transportation 205-275-8277
Lila's Engraving 256-234-6004
Lindsay Kane 256-215-7029
Liquidation Station
Long Leaf Antiques 256-234-3492
Love Lake Martin, Paige Patterson 205-616-8046
Lowden Street Capital 205-494-3007
Lynn's Quick Stop 256-234-0024
Madison & Co. Salon 256-749-8688
Madix, Inc. 256-839-6354
Magnolia Main Boutique 256-496-1095
Main Street Alexander City 256-329-9227
Main Street Family Care 256-414-3013
Main Street Title & Closing Co., LLC 256-392-3846
Malibu Electronics 256-397-0800
Mamie's Place Children's Library
Marsha C. Mason Law Firm 256-329-1313
Martin's Music 256-496-6347
Mary Kay
Mary Kay Cosmetics Gina Hays
Mary Kay Cosmetics, April Price Butler 256-419-7759
Massage Therapy by Noel Boone, L.M.T. #588 2567490318
Maxwell AFB 334-953-3669
MBA 205-368-5656
McCants Metal Works, LLC 256-454-0952
McCrane Law, LLC. 256-825-7393
McDaniel's Supply, Inc 256-234-7076
McDonald's 256-435-6527
Me Mama's Grub Hub 256-373-3314
Meacham Marketing Co. 256-392-4250
Medical Park Family Care
Medicine Express Family Pharmacy 256-215-8014
Meridith Enterprises
Miller Hotel 256-794-1278
Miracle Missionary Baptist Church 256-215-9788
Miss Lake Martin Cover Girl
Miss P's Cheese and Charcuterie 512-501-0775
Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast 256-329-3717
Mitchell & Company
Mitchell Gavin, Attorney at Law 256-329-2211
Mitchell Roofing, LLC 256-245-3534
Moore's Hardware & Power Equipment
Morris Enterprises 256-749-5407
Morris Haynes, Attorneys at Law 256-329-2000
Movement Mortgage 256-794-1003
Music Depot 256-234-6767
Mutual Savings Credit Union 256-234-3821
my HR
Neighbors of Lake Martin North & South 205-540-5544
Nelson Electric 256-234-3000
New Water Farms 334-332-0733
Ocie & Belle’s LLC
Off the Beaton Path Alabama 334-703-2536
OGS Tournaments 334-740-1267
Onin Staffing 256-234-3585
On-Site Boat Care (Hardy Companies, LLC) 256-234-5807
Opelika Chamber of Commerce
Oral & Facial Surgery of East Alabama 256-392-4916
Oscar's Cafe
Ox Foundation Solutions 205-690-7272
Papa John's 256-409-7272
Patterson Air, Inc 334-850-3500
Patterson Truck Parts & Towing 256-234-3981
Pediatric Associates of Alex City 256-234-5021
Petra
205-999-4699
PFS Investments 256-794-8251
Phoenix Physical Therapy 334-657-3709
Picket Fence 256-777-3847
Piggly Wiggly 256-234-3454
Pinnacle Engineering 205-733-6912
Plain & Fancy Cleaners 256-329-2695
Plains Benefit Solutions 334-301-4823
Planet Fitness Alexander City 256-392-4866
Playhouse Cinemas 256-234-2509
Praise 87.5 334-750-0882
Precision Floor Care 334-514-5757
Price Property Solutions 256-749-4060
Prime Fitness 334-657-3709
Prime Management
ProCare Contracting, LLC 256-496-1234
ProgreCiv Group, Inc. 334-332-8407
Purdy Girl Clothing, LLC 256-794-3241
Qtee Boutique by Teasha, LLC 256-392-4682
Quail Ridge Select Clearing Quality Inn 256-234-5900
R & D Enterprise 334-319-2376
RadioAlabama / 105.1 WRFS / KiX 96.3 / WSGN 256-249-4263
Radney Cemetery Services, LLC 256-234-3751
Radney Elementary School 256-234-8636
Radney Funeral Home 256-234-2511
Radney, Radney, & Jackson, LLC 256-234-2547
Ray Poynor Properties 205-879-3036
Raymond James 256-414-3355
Ray's Towing
Re/Max Around the Lake, Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634
Re/Max Around the Lake, Bill Yeatman 205-835-2617
Re/Max Around the Lake, Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650
Re/Max Around the Lake, Sherry Johnston 256-786-0423
Re/Max Around the Lake, Sherry Willis 256-750-3566
RealtySouth Lake Martin, Sherri McCollum 256-392-4560
RealtySouth Lake Martin, Tony Goss
RealtySouth-Lake Martin 256-749-3355
Red Flag Pest Control ® 256-825-0430
Regions Bank 256-234-1053
Reli Settlement Solutions, LLC 334-887-4266
Reli Title of Lake Martin
Renfroe's Market-Alexander City 256-392-4472
Reynolds Law Firm 256-329-1333
Rita's Italian Ice & Custard 484-366-4040
River Bank & Trust 256-329-0555
River of Life Worship Center
Robinson Iron, Inc. 256-329-8486
Ron Hill's Painting 334-710-9655
Ronin Sushi Bar 646-593-2153
Roots & Rain
Royal Cup Coffee 1800-366-5836
Russell Brands 256-500-4000
Russell Crossroads
Russell Do It Center 256-234-2567
Russell Home Décor 256-212-9877
Russell Lands 256-329-0835
Russell Lands Real Estate 256-212-1433
Russell Marine 256-212-1465
Russell Medical 256-329-7100
Russell Medical Gift Shop
Russell Medical Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
S & S Discount Tire Pros
256-215-8822
SA Services 256-794-4035
Sabal Trail Transmission, LLC
Sacred Fire Photography 334-703-9914
Sakura Bistro 256-234-9833
Salvation Army Service Center 256-215-3730
Sarah Bella Salon Spa Boutique 256-307-3600
Sarah C. Towery Art Colony 256-215-3743
Sarrell Dental
Sassy & Crafty Creations 256-397-0122
Satterfield Outdoor Living
Satterfield Welding
Satterfield, Inc. 256-234-6388
Scenario Design, Inc. Scent Wizards 334-233-1554
Schuler Properties, LLC 256-750-0399
Scooter's Coffee 205-746-3800
Scooter's Grille 256-794-4844
Scott Accounting & Computer Service, Inc. 256-329-1205
Scott Roe Roofing 256-392-4861
Scotty Howell Consulting
SDI Main Tenant
Security Finance 256-409-2299
Security Pest Control 256-329-9395
Sellers and Associates 256-329-1018
Selling Lake Martin 256-329-3131
Senator Doug Jones
Sensigreen Heating, Cooling & Insulation 334-750-4772
Serra Automotive Sylacauga Service Printing & Office Supply 256-234-6307
ServPro 256-329-5141
Sessions, LLC 256-392-5141
Shear Concepts 256-234-4311
Sherwin Williams Company 256-234-2111
Sherwood Forest 256-234-9999
ShiftRX Russell, LLC dba Russell
Retail Pharmacy
334-332-6419
Sho'Nuff Sigma 256-234-2514
Sign Source
256-825-0197 Ext 2
Simply Lake Martin at EXP Realty - Drew W
205-566-8876
Simply Personal on Lake Martin
Sims Electric Heating & Air
256-329-3360
SK Services
256-392-5679
SL Alabama, LLC
256-397-8511
Slate Bargainer Building
Southeast District of the United Methodist Church
Southeastern Benefits 205-369-7178
Southern Care Hospice
Southern Design & Materials, Inc.
256-234-7479
Southern Head & Neck Surgery 256-329-1114
Southern Star Pet Grooming & Boarding
256-215-5586
Space Cadets
205-326-7025
Spacewalk of Alexander City
256-750-1546
Sparkle Window Cleaning Services, Inc.
334-759-7080
Specifit, LLC
334-524-2253
Spectrum Reach
334-260-3679
spencer heating and air
256-373-3165
Sprayberry Services
256-307-6591
Spring House
St. James Episcopal Church
256-234-4752
St. John The Apostle Catholic Church 256-234-3631
Stallings Pool Service
256-234-7538
State Farm Insurance
Karen Channell
256-234-3481
State Farm Insurance
Harold Cochran 256-234-2700
Steele Marketing 256-749-1003
Stephens Elementary School 256-234-8631
Stepping Stones Learning Center 256-392-5001
Steven Mackey Dermatology 256-409-2159
Stewart S. Wilbanks, Attorney at Law
205-939-0005
Stone Ridge Baptist Church 256-234-2408
Stop for Breakfast (Garrard Enterprises) 256-504-7328
Strickland's What's 256-234-3298
Studio SAM
Studio West Fitness, LLC 256-786-0584
Sunrise Docks, LLC
256-392-5200
Super 8 256-234-7099
Surge Staffing
Sweet Gaga's 256-392-5676
Sweet Pickins Farm
Sweet Tee Boutique 256-794-2393
Taco Tuesdays 256-553-0669
Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center
Tallapoosa County Bar Association 256-392-9060
Tallapoosa County CARES
Tallapoosa County Circuit Clerk
Tallapoosa County Commission
Tallapoosa County Commission District 2, Steve Robinson 256-825-4268
Tallapoosa County Commission District 3, John McKelvey
Tallapoosa County Commissioner
District 1, T.C. Coley
Tallapoosa County Democratic Party 256-307-2752
Tallapoosa County DHR 256-825-3710
Tallapoosa County Education Retirees Association 256-496-1882
Tallapoosa County Extension Service
Tallapoosa County Girls Ranch 256-896-4113
Tallapoosa County Revenue Commissioner
Tallapoosa County RSVP
Tallapoosa County Sheriff's Department 256-825-4244
Tallapoosa County Tourism 256-215-3067
Tallapoosa Ford 256-234-3432
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 256-234-4281
Tallapoosa River Electric Co-op 334-864-9331
Tallapoosa's Caring REFUGE 256-496-1484
Talli & Friends Pet Grooming, LLC 256-392-5664
Taqueria Avita 256-392-3457
Taylor Made Designs
TCC General Contractors 256-392-4115
Terry's Catering
The American Legion Post 103 256-675-6208
The AMP
The Annex on Lake Martin
The Church of God
The Closing Agency, LLC 256-329-8832
The Destination Resort, Inc 615-477-9813
The Five Points Garden Club 256-794-4406
The Frazer Lanier Company
The Funky Goat
The Lake Martin Society 256-510-2532
The Local at 41 Main 256-392-2752
The Lodge at Cocktail Slough
The Mercantile on Main 256-749-4716
The Mitchell House 256-749-0920
The New Home Missionary Baptist Church 256-377-4664
The Orchard on Washington Venue 256-496-0444
The Rabbit Hole
The Square
The Stables
The Studio Arts and Education 334-327-0805
The Sure Shot 256-329-0080
The Tippy Canoe 256-392-4802
The Walton Firm
The Well Counseling Center 256-615-2040
The Willows Assisted Living 256-234-0800
The Wright Angle 256-496-4175
Thin Blue Lawns Property Maintenance LLC
Thomas Auto Parts 256-234-5023
Thomas R. Goree, Jr., Attorney At Law 334-750-0768
Thompson Power Systems 205-849-4361
Tidal Wave Auto Spa 256-302-4936
Tienda Mexicana Lina 256-392-3457
Timberland Construction 256-749-1575
Timberland Silvicultural Services, Inc. 205-242-9901
Timberline Glamping - Lake Martin 256-212-0582
Tolbert's Elite Mobile Detailing 256-786-1007
ToothMasters 256-329-8401
Top Gun Pest Control, LLC 256-234-7375
Total Healthcare
TowBoatUS Lake Martin 256-307-8718
Town & Country, LLC 256-234-4281
TR Group, Inc. 256-234-3435
Treasure Hunt 256-252-6831
TRO Jung Brannen, Inc
Troy's Window Cleaning & Power Washing LLC
Turner Fence, LLC 334-444-9008
Tylicki Service Co., LLC 334-202-4172
U.S Small Business Administration (404) 331-0333
UAB Heart & Vascular
UAB Medicine Russell Medical Cancer Center
UA-Entrepreneuership
UniFirst 334-272-6139
US Small Business Administration Valley Bank 256-329-7400
Varner Electric & Refrigeration 256-626-0097
Venture South Investments, LLC (404) 242-5102
Veritas Lake Martin 205-396-3639
Vision Landscapes, Inc.
Viva Medicare 334-868-4937
Vulcan Sales Group 205-910-4497
WAKA
Walmart Super Center 256-234-0316
Walton Law Firm, PC 334-321-3000
Wayside Animal Hospital 256-329-9900
Wayside Baptist Church 256-234-5564
WealthMark Financial Solutions, LLC
Wedgworth Pest Control
We-Haul, LLC 256-537-5000
WELL 87.7
Wellborn Muscle Car Museum 256-329-8474
Wendy Holder, DMD 256-234-6841
Wendy's 256-234-0988 wf Cabinetry 256-234-7900
Wharf Casual Seafood 256-392-3227
Wheeler Real Estate Investment Trust 205-410-8840
White Oak Landing, LP 205-410-8840
Whitetail Properties Real Estate, LLC Who's Diner 256-212-1501
Wildfire Auction & Estate Sale Company
Williams 412-849-9626
Williams Ryan, LLC 205-337-0007
Willow Point Golf & Country Club
Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Wetumpka
Wind Creek State Park Woody Woodpecker Learning Center 256-234-6287
Wright's Funeral Home 256-234-6355
Wyatt Tire & Service Center 256-392-4545
YGM Total Resource Campaign (318) 294-2717
Zajac's Auto Collision 256-329-9963
Zaxby's 256-234-2181
Zee Company - Member of the Vincit Group 256-596-0906
ZenBusiness (844) 493-6249
