Lake Martin Living May 2023

Everyday Grandeur

DISCOVER A LUXURIOUS GOLF LIFESTYLE LIVING ALONG GRAND NATIONAL GOLF COURSE

Tucked away on the outskirts of Auburn University at the world-class Grand National Golf Course, the award winning National Village offers everything you’ll ever need for the way you want to live. The thoughtfully crafted master planned community features georgeous homes designed by national award winner Larry Garnett and built by Ab and Don Conner at Conner Bros. Construction Co., Inc., a local company with more than 100 years of experience. With the Marriott at Grand National on site, residents enjoy championship golf, miles of picturesque nature trails and lakes for fishing, spa and pool. National Village is truly an unbelievable place to live – inside or out. Plus, thanks to the high speed fiber optic network of Opelika (Alabama’s first Gig City), our homeowners enjoy some of the Nation’s fastest internet for any work- or learn-from-home requirements.

From the Editor’s Desk Lake Martin Living

The last month has been surreal as we have tried to line up the April 15 shooting with understanding in our brains, as if doing so was not a futile effort. My job at Lake Martin Living magazine is all about the good news, the good that goes on in our communities, the positive spin. That’s been a genuine struggle in the last 30 days as, like you, my heart just couldn’t make the turn. My head kept asking, “What good is there in this awful situation?”

I shared my questions with the magazine team at TPI. We all felt it was imperative to recognize the tragedy but also to recognize the bearers of good in it. We poured over the stories from local and national media, intent upon finding that good, only to realize it was there all the time, from the very moment the unthinkable happened.

The good is you. All of you.

It’s the friends who started GoFundMe sites for victims’ families. It’s the EMS drivers and nurses who saved lives and the law enforcement folks who picked at clues on the ground. It’s the counselors who continue to help our kids conquer fear. It’s four young reporters who were among the first on the scene, who sat in the conference room at Tallapoosa Publishers two days later and mapped out the crime scene on a whiteboard, trying to piece together the answers to questions you were asking.

It’s The Alabama Baptist Media Group who brought coffee and donuts to those reporters; business owners who fed law enforcement, and everyone who attended a barbecue event on April 29 to raise money for victims and their families. The good is in everyone who left a flower or a balloon or a note at a Broadnax Street storefront; everyone who prayed a prayer, hugged a child or shed a tear.

So, we collected those stories of good from the frontlines and are honored to share them with you in this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine, from the humble first responders and frontline professionals on our cover to all who donate dollars, offer comfort, utter prayers or do their parts in any of a myriad of ways to keep Dadeville Strong.

Thank you.

Betsy Iler, Editor-in-Chief

Chairman

Kenneth Boone

General Manager

Tippy Hunter

Editor-in-Chief

Betsy Iler

Creative Services

Audra Spears

Business & Digital Development Director

Angela Mullins

Contributors

Kenneth Boone

Breanna Manley

Lacey Howell

Shane Harris

Teresa Grier

George Miranda

Gina Abernathy

Audra Spears

Cliff Williams

Abigail Murphy

Henry Zimmer

William Marlow

Dalton Middleton

Erin Chesnutt

Lizi Arbogast Gwin

Audience Development Director

Erin Burton

Marketing/Advertising Sales

Renee Trice

Emily Gregg

Craig Howard

Sheryl Jennings

Hidey Arrington

Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011

256-234-4281

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

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

EMS drivers, hospital staff, counselors, local police and local news reporters have gone above and beyond to help victims, relay information and help the community heal after the April 15 shooting, including Danny Robinson, Kim McDonald, Jennifer Brooks, Johnathan Floyd, and Will Marlow.

by Kenneth Boone

Photo

FEATURES

13 ALL TOGETHER NOW

Local libraries focus on living and working in community.

14. MAIN STREET FARMERS MARKET

Ellen Gregg takes on the manager's role at Main Street's downtown market.

24. SUMMER ARTS CAMPS

Dadeville Performing Arts Center expands the summer camps to three free sessions.

26. DADEVILLE STRONG

Our communities honor the frontline professions that responded to the Dadeville mass shooting.

30. JAZZ FEST 2023

Eddie 9Volt and Big Something hit this year's Jazz Fest stages in style.

32. CELEBRATE THE SUMMER

New events are on the schedule for this summer's annual celebration in Alexander City.

34. REMEMBER THE FALLEN

Kurt and Leigh Pfitzner add a venerable element to Pennington Park's annual Memorial Day display.

IN EVERY ISSUE

Dadeville Performing Arts Center will offer three free arts camp sessions this summer.

Horseshoe Bend band waits 15 years for superior ratings

Horseshoe

Bend School’s concert band received superior ratings across the board for the first time in more than 15 years at this year’s Music

Dylan Teel, fine arts teacher at Horseshoe Bend and band director, said this is the first time the band has been awarded all superiors since 2006.

“This group has come a really long way,” he said. “This is my second year here, but they’ve come a really long way just in the time that I’ve known them.”

The three pieces Horseshoe Bend performed were Overture for Winds by Charles Carter, And Hold in Memory by Johnnie Vinson and Homeward Bound March from The Complete Marches of John Philip Sousa.

The sight-reading portion of the competition involves a director looking over a piece of music for a few minutes; and then, having a brief amount of time to teach the piece to the band.

“I have eight minutes to talk and teach without actually having them play. When that time is up, we have to play straight through it,” he said.

The Horseshoe Bend School concert band is made up of high schoolers and seventh and eighth grade students. Teel said overall there are 33 members, including seven percussionists and 26 wind players.

“We have a pretty small band, and it’s kind of cool the stuff that they’re able to pull off,” he said. “When we got there, I was just thinking about how many people we had, and I was like, ‘Man, this stuff that we’re playing, if I saw a band that size sitting on stage, I wouldn’t really know what to expect,’ but they just really did a great job.”

~ Abigail Murphy

Celebrity game planned in effort to form disability baseball team

Better Security For Girls Ranch

At a quarterly luncheon, Tallapoosa County Sheriffs Girls Ranch Director Candace Gulley told supporters that the Ranch had received a grant from Kiwanis Club of Montgomery for a security system. "You wouldn't believe the amount of people who come onto the property without permission," Gulley said.

~ Abigail Murphy

As part of an effort to promote the formation of an Alternative Baseball program in Tallapoosa County, organization founder Taylor Duncan is organizing a celebrity game in spring or summer of 2024. The seven-inning game would consist of Alternative Baseball players and community leaders to create awareness around the organization. Alternative Baseball follows the same rules as traditional baseball, aside from having a larger, softer ball and, at times, altering the pitch for the player’s skill level.

participate in like what you see on television,” Duncan said.

Batter Up

A team coach and volunteers are needed to bring Alternative Baseball to Tallapoosa County.

Part of the desire to build a team locally is to provide an inclusive outlet for those with disabilities and help other teams in the East Central Alabama region. Duncan said this would allow Tallapoosa County and adjacent teams to have more playing opportunities. To aid in forming a team, Duncan said the Alternative Baseball website has resources on how to start and he is happy to set up a call with anyone interested.

“You’re not required to have any experience to participate — really, it’s something that you get to

~ Abigail Murphy

The Wright Angle

STORY BY ERIN CHESNUTT & PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER

Awelcoming little frame shop in downtown Alexander City, The Wright Angle Custom Framing next door to Jess & Gray Living is known for preserving treasured memories in beautiful frames and shadow boxes. It’s just one of the unique shopping experiences that has opened in the city’s delightful historic district.

Owner Loraine Wright purchased the shop two years ago and offers a variety of services, as well as the works of local artists.

“We have had customers call from as far away as Talladega because they can’t find anyone that will frame in a shadow box. That has become a specialty for us,” explained Wright.

She enjoys helping her customers preserve memorabilia, from military service records to sports certificates, as well as reframing special family art that has been passed down or discovered tucked away in storage. And if a piece doesn’t need the full treatment, she’s happy to just add a wire to the back, change a mat or replace the glass.

The front of the shop houses a gallery where Wright displays the works of Alabama artists. Her collection includes a number of pieces by John Denney, as well as DeDe Wilson, Rosemary Brigham, Jim Denney and more.

Wright came to the area in 2009 from a small town in southeast Idaho.

“I had worked in healthcare for nine years and wanted a change. So, I went to Idaho State University and earned an associates degree in Energy Systems Instrumentation Engineering,” she said.

Constellation Energy went to Idaho looking for workers and offered Wright a position at their Hillabee Energy Center in Tallapoosa County. Although Wright had never been to

Alabama, she accepted the job and moved here with her two small daughters.

The shop’s original owner offered art lessons, and Wright enrolled her daughters in the classes when they were young. She became friends with the owner, and when the shop became available in 2021, Wright decided to purchase it as a future retirement business.

“I get to hear the stories behind the pieces people bring in. I really enjoy that part of it,” Wright said.

She worked with the original owner to learn the business and has grown into an active role in the community. She will participate in the city’s annual Sun Festival celebration for the second time this year and is a member of Bikers Against Child Abuse. Wright hopes to become involved with the local Kiwanis chapter as time allows.

“One of the best things about owning a small business is that we all help each other. I get a lot of business from other shops, and I send customers to local businesses whenever I can,” said Wright.

While she is still working full time at the energy center, Wright enjoys her time in the shop.

“I love working in the shop. We stay busy, and it’s fun,” said Wright.

She has plans to build a retirement cabin on property she has purchased in the area. Her younger daughter is graduating high school this year and will attend the University of South Alabama in the fall. Her older daughter is a successful graphic artist in Birmingham.

Wright Angle Frame Shop is open Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Customers can also call 256-496-4175 for an appointment.

An Artistic Touch in Downtown Alexander City

Top: Wright Angle owner Loraine Wright puts the finishing touch on a customer's project; Above: Catie Radney is a featured local artist at the shop; Facing Page: The Wright Angle showcases a variety of styles and media by local artists.

All Together Now

Libraries focus on living and working in community

STORY BY BETSY ILER

Now more than ever, Dadeville needs to pull together, so the theme for this year’s summer reading program at the public library, All Together Now, is perfect, said Dadeville Public Library Director Brooke Smith. Four presentations during the month of June, along with regularly scheduled story times and makeand-take crafts, will emphasize the strength of community life.

“This theme means a lot after what happened in our town,” Smith said.

Kicking off the summer reading program on June 1, Smith has scheduled a visit from the McWane Science Center in Birmingham. The 45-minute presentation will start at 2 p.m. in the basement book shop.

On June 8, Animal Tales will bring some animal friends to the library at 2:30 p.m., and Barry Stewart Mann will entertain children with stories and puppets at 2:30 p.m. on June 14.

“Tallapoosa Bee Association will come on June 29 with beehives and honey,” Smith said.

She also is working with local children’s book author, Negrita Smart, to line up a date for her to read her new book, Grace and the Golden Rule to children.

“Her book is adorable. It’s about treating others the way you want to be treated,” Smith said.

Reading program presentations are free and open to the public, even those who have not signed up for reading logs; however, Smith encouraged children of all ages to pick up reading logs at the library and keep a record of the books they read over the summer. Children who turn in a reading log by July 22 will be presented with prizes.

In addition, the library hosts a regular story time for toddlers through early elementary at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays with make-and-take crafts following.

To learn more, visit the Dadeville Public Library at 205 N. West St. or email Smith at dadevillelibrary@gmail.com.

In Alexander City, Library Director Amy Huff, along with assistants Teresa Holley and Nikisha Marbury, also has a schedule of magic shows, movies, games, theater, technology presentations and more lined up from June 1 through July, with an awards event on the calendar for July 27.

“It’s all about programs that are beneficial to the community,” Huff said. “Traditionally, the summer reading program helps to prevent the summer slide, to help children keep up academically by reading about what interests them. They set their own goals. It’s fun and easy, and there are no tests.”

“It’s a lot of work, but it’s so worth it to have the kids come in,” Holley said as she surveyed an assortment of crafts, new games and giveaways for kids who read at least 10 books

over the summer. “There are rainbow putty balls, drink cups, magnets, pencils, balloons, plush stars, paper glasses for all kinds of occupations.”

The prizes coincide with the national library theme but were handpicked locally, Holley said.

A kick-off event will be held at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex on June 5 with Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor Center, but kids and adults can sign up between May 15 and June 10. The earlier registration is completed, the more time there is to read and logbooks. Log sheets must be turned in at the circulation desk at the library by July 21.

To make it even easier, registration can be completed using the Beanstack app on a computer or smartphone. Library personnel also have partnered with local school and daycares to register children and attend programs.

But registration is not required to take part in the programs, so even children visiting the lake area over the summer can participate in programs and activities while they are here. Programs for adults include sign language classes, disaster preparedness workshops and more, Huff said.

“Reading can be a serious stress buster. It boosts brain power, increases creativity and helps us relax,” she said. “We are way more than books.”

To sign up for the summer reading program, download the Beanstack app at alexander-cityal. beanstack.com or visit Mamie’s Place Children’s Library at 284 Church St. in Alexander City.

Main Street Farmers Market opens with new manager next month

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

Alexander City Main Street board member

Ellen Gregg is putting her love of farming and gardening into the forefront of her life as she takes on the farmers market manager position this upcoming season. With a love for this community and the farmers market, Gregg is excited for the new role.

“I’ve been going to the farmers market ever since I moved back here. I’ve just always loved fresh vegetables,” Gregg said.

After moving back to the area in 2019, Gregg has had her eye on Main Street and knew she wanted to open a shop there one day. This summer, Gregg will be celebrating her first year on Main Street with her business, Picket Fence.

“When I got this business on Main Street, I started going to the board meetings. I just recently became a board member, and they were talking about needing to find someone to manage it. The idea to cancel the market came up in one of the meetings because they couldn’t find someone to manage it,” Gregg explained.

Growing up on a farm, Gregg is familiar with the amount of work farmers put in to keep their farms up and running.

“I knew we couldn’t cancel it because I know a lot of the farmers really like coming, and the people really enjoy it, too. I told them that I didn’t know what was involved, but I bet I could do it. I told them if they would bear with me, let me give it a try this year. I couldn’t stand the idea of it not happening. I think eventually somebody would’ve stepped up, but sometimes you’re that somebody, and that’s your something to do,” Gregg said.

Gregg credits her interest in the position to her mother, who always had a bountiful garden when she was growing up.

“I grew up on a farm, and my mother always had this huge garden. My favorite time of the year was when my mother’s garden started producing, and we would have fresh corn, tomatoes and okra. I didn’t even care if I got any meat on my plate if I had all those vegetables. My mother was an excellent gardener,” Gregg explained.

According to Gregg, Main Street Alexander City is hard at work preparing for the upcoming season, and changes are already being made. The market’s hours have changed to 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. per the request of participating farmers.

“The goal of any farmers market is to promote farmers and help them make money. We also want to enable the public to have access to fresh produce. It gives farmers a great source of pride to have someone say, ‘How did you grow that? It’s beautiful.’” Gregg said.

Plans are also in the works to start up a maker’s market, which would be a separate entity from the farmers market. Local vendors could share their fare with the public close to or perhaps adjacent to the farmers market.

As she takes on this new role, Gregg is excited to see the conversations take place and the relationships built between farmers and marketgoers. Gregg said seeing these exchanges is her favorite part of the market.

“I like watching the exchanging between the public and the producers because the farmers have worked hard at this,” Gregg explained.

Throughout the process of applying and taking on this role, Gregg has had the chance to reminisce on memories with her own family on their farm. She believes the position will help carry on her mother’s love of gardening and farming.

“I feel close to my mom. My mother and father have both passed away, and I’ve thought about her a lot while I was doing this. My mother, sisters and grandmother were always outside. They loved to garden, and I feel like I’m promoting my mother’s love. I think we need to make sure that everybody knows how to grow something. Everybody needs to be part of the creation, and everybody needs to experience that joy,” Gregg said.

This new position is just another way for Gregg to get involved with the community she loves. Along with running Picket Fence and taking on the farmers market manager position, Gregg is involved with ACT II, has recently joined the arts council, and participates in the choir at First Presbyterian Church.

Make your way out to the farmer’s market in June and have the chance to interact with Gregg and the farmers.

Currently, the farmers market could include between 10 and 20 farmers during operation. The season will open June 17 and run every Saturday through September.

Market Manager

Ellen Gregg plans to manage the Main Street Alexander City farmers market with enthusiasm this summer.

Right plants for our climate

Many people tend to judge their garden success and experience on whether they killed the plants they were attempting to grow. Yet most of the time, plants that die or don’t do well in the landscape and garden are not necessarily the results of the grower’s actions. Factors like sunlight, temperature, water, soil nutrients and location all must be perfect for a plant to survive the first year and thrive long term. Then, the plant must avoid or escape the threats of insect and disease pests; however, if all goes well, there is always the threat of the two-legged pest – bad decisions and actions by people.

Whether interested in growing annuals, vegetables, shrubs or fruit trees, the key to successful gardening many times lies –and begins with – making the right plant selection. Doing so correctly could avoid a lot of mistakes.

The first mistake many people make is selecting the wrong plant or a plant that doesn’t grow well in Alabama. Due to our warm summers and mild winters, there are several species of plants that grow in Alabama, but that doesn’t mean all will survive and become what the grower or gardener desires.

For example, red delicious apples, the nice red ones sold in the supermarket, will not do well in Alabama despite the trees being sold at local retail businesses. That’s why the state of Washington is known for its apples. The same thing goes for grapes. Humidity and diseases

Shane Harris

prevent and kill most chances of growing bunch grapes in Alabama. If you want grapes as part of your orchard, your best bet would be to choose muscadine grapes, which are native.

When selecting a plant for your orchard, landscape or garden, make sure it is adapted for this area. Just because a business sells a certain variety of shrub, tree or flower doesn’t mean it will live long term once you take it home. Remember, many businesses are national businesses, and they sell plants nationwide rather than by region. They want you to keep coming back and buying more. Some plants that are sold in the northern states are also sold in the southern states. Yet what grows in Ohio, California or Florida may or may not grow in Alabama and vice versa.

Buying from local or regional nurseries and garden centers tends to be a better option for what does well in Alabama. Even with the convenience of online shopping and access to more sources, do your homework and purchase plants recommended for our area.

A second mistake many people often make is buying and installing a plant and not realizing how large it will get over time. The common excuse is usually, “I didn’t know it

was going to get that big.” This problem occurs quite often with shrubs and trees that have been placed too close to buildings, windows, signs and utility lines.

When it comes to landscape design, this is a major and costly blunder that is way too common, even with the paid professionals. Remember the motto “right plant, right place” or “wrong plant, wrong place.” Knowing the mature size of a plant years down the road will ensure proper placement and spacing is followed. Doing so also limits overgrowth and the laborsome and unnecessary urge to prune year after year to control the plant’s size and the feelgood attempt to fix the obvious mistake.

Crapemyrtles, despite being small trees, are too often planted too close, get too big and are unmercifully wacked back each year to control their size. Hollies that are planted too close to each other get crowded at maturity and develop diseases. Some shade trees that get planted near the home have to be unsightly trimmed back to keep them from growing into utility lines and roofs.

Before selecting a plant and putting it in the ground, find out how large it will be at maturity. And by all means, ask the professional you hired the same question before allowing him or her to put it in the ground. Most plants come with labels on or in pots that show or explain the dimensions plants will reach at maturity. Trust those labels but also know that healthy plants can’t read and often get bigger than expected. To be on the safe side, check out the numerous garden books and online resources out there that state how large the plants could be and what shape they would have in due time.

A third mistake many people make is selecting a plant that has lots of pest problems. A great deal of time and money is spent each year on plants and lawns to control insects and plant diseases. The best way to avoid these problems is to select a plant that is resistant to certain pests or select a different plant that generally has fewer problems. All plants are susceptible to pest problems, but there are some that have more than their share.

Roses are very beautiful and highly prized plants, but most have fungal and insect problems, despite claims to the contrary. Most tomato plants struggle to grow or produce each year due to many pest and environmental problems and disorders. Even once-popular ornamental plants like Leyland cypress and Bradford pears have issues. Leylend cypress are no longer great choices due to the diseases and dieback that occur late in life.

Bradford

Landscaping Fundamentals

Previous Pages: Proper landscape design and plant selection around houses includes noting any height restrictions, checking light conditions, and giving plants enough room to grow; Left Top: Wrong plant in the wrong place often leads to excessive and unnecessary pruning and ugly results; Left: Knowing the mature size of plants will aid in how and where to use them, such as privacy screen.

pears have weak limb structure that causes branches to easily break from high winds. These are now considered invasive due to all the once-thought sterile seeds sprouting up and spreading everywhere.

I could keep going, but those are a few examples. Unless you don’t mind spending the time and money to control all the pest problems some plants have, you might want to select plants and cultivars that are mostly pest-free or resistant.

Another mistake many people make is buying a plant and putting it in the wrong location. Most plants can be grouped as either full sun, part sun/shade or full shade. Too much light or too little light can affect a plant’s growth, flowering, fruit production and life span. All vegetables and fruits need full sun to maximize production, and most shrubs and trees will do fine in full sun to filter sun. Sunlight is good but too much of a good thing will kill a shade-loving plant.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the lack of sun may not kill a plant, such as with turfgrass, but it could dramatically limit its growth, density and flower and fruit production.

The next time you are looking at those garden advertisements or passing an attractive plant for sale at a business, avoid the impulse of hurriedly buying it and taking it home. If there is a plant you are interested in, take the time to do a little research on your own to learn more about it.

When it comes to selecting plants, ignorance can be quite costly. Plants can also be misused and abused and not allowed to reach their full beauty. Successful gardening and landscaping require having a proper education and information from reputable sources … and that can be positively priceless.

For help on other home and garden questions, contact your local county Extension office or visit us online at aces.edu.

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.

Shane Harris is the County Extension Coordinator for Tallapoosa County.

Fried Green Tomatoes

with Creamy Remoulade Sauce

Fried Green Tomatoes are a delicious, classic and simple Southern dish. They are crunchy on the outside and slightly tangy in the middle. A perfect appetizer or side dish served with a creamy remoulade sauce. You know, after the first bite, it’s officially summertime.

Every year when spring rolls around, I know it›s time to prepare our garden with those summertime plants and seeds. Cucumbers, okra, peppers, squash and zucchini are planted, but tomatoes are always the first plants to go into the ground.

And every year, I not so patiently wait for

the first green tomato on the vine. Then, when it gets big enough to fry, I pick it! Nothing else screams summertime more than a big plate of fried green tomatoes.

I’ve been making fried green tomatoes for years, and this recipe has never failed me. The homemade remoulade sauce takes these tomatoes over the top. It’s creamy and slightly spicy, with a kick of heat from the horseradish. You’ll be hooked after the first bite between the crunchy coated tomatoes and the creamy sauce.

So, if you’re like me, go ahead and pick those green tomatoes, fry them up, and enjoy the first taste of summer. You’ll be so glad you did.

GOOD EATS

Gina Abernathy

Fried Green Tomatoes

Remoulade Sauce Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard

2 tablespoons ketchup

2 tablespoons creamy prepared horseradish

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 teaspoon Creole seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Sauce Directions

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and whisk well. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Green Tomatoes Ingredients

3 large green tomatoes

1 cup self-rising flour

1/2 cup buttermilk

1 egg

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (plain, Italian, or parmesan)

3/4 cup cornmeal

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1-1/2 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Green Tomato Directions

Make the dipping sauce and refrigerate until ready to use. Cut tomatoes into 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick slices. Set up the breading station with three separate dishes. Pie plates work great. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, cornmeal, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika and pepper. Add oil to a cast iron skillet.

Dip each tomato slice in the flour (shake off excess), followed by the buttermilk mixture and finally, the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently. Place the breaded tomato slices in a single layer on a wire rack or a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow to sit while you heat the oil. Warm the oil over medium-high heat in a large cast iron skillet until it reaches 350 degrees. The oil should sizzle when the tomatoes are added. Carefully add three or four battered tomatoes to the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd the skillet. Fry until golden brown, three to four minutes per side. Transfer the fried tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Fry the remaining tomato slices.

Serve immediately with the dipping sauce.

Tips

• Choose firm, green tomatoes.

• Make sure the oil is hot before adding the tomatoes.

• Refrain from overcrowding the pan.

• Drain on paper towels and cool slightly before eating.

• Refrigerate the sauce before serving it with the tomatoes.

• Reheat any leftovers on a sheet pan in the oven.

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

Summer Arts Camp

The Dadeville Performing Arts Center is excited to bring back its summer camps beginning in June for kids in Tallapoosa County. In conjunction with Everything’s Art, the camps will provide kids with the opportunity to explore different elements of art.

Kim Walls, Dadeville Performing Arts Center director, is thrilled to offer this free and fun experience for kids within the community again this year following the success it brought last summer. There are three camps in total, and each spans across four days.

“Our camps are integrated arts or music and related arts. The children will be experiencing music, visual arts, dance and drama creation,” Walls explained.

Each art component featured throughout the camp has its own dedicated teacher ready to share and participate in activities right alongside the kids.

donors and patrons who offer donations to the center throughout the year. Because of this, along with offering the camps to Tallapoosa County kids, the center is excited to offer the same opportunity to kids who are visiting the area for a small fee.

With the help of donations, those participating in the camps are not required to bring any supplies with them. Everything will be provided, and anything the children make throughout the camp will go home with them.

Walls is excited to bring back the camps for local children and hopes to continue with the camps each year.

Art is Life

“We have teachers for each area, and all of them are focusing on a different theme. We are also working on making a show for each area. We work together with Everything’s Art, and at our camps last year we took the kids to the Raining Dogs Gallery. We’ll probably go to some museums this time. We mainly focus on the arts,” Walls said.

Top: Last year's arts camp theme focused on The Rainbow Fish with themes of sharing and helping others; (Center) Students made clay fish plates and visual art, as well as performing the play.

The camps are made possible by the center’s generous

“We did the camps last year, and we just feel so blessed and thankful to the people who help us out. We are so grateful for those who are responding to our “fun” drives and membership drives, it helps to complete the shows we put on. They make it possible and to have so many experienced people volunteer, it just means the world,” Walls said.

The first camp starts on June 26, the second on July 10 and the third on July 24. Each camp begins at 8 a.m. and lasts until 1 p.m. For more information about registration, visit the Dadeville Performing Arts Center Facebook page or website.

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY

PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER & CLIFF WILLIAMS

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STORY& PHOTOS BY BREANNA MANLEY, WILLIAM MARLOW AND ABIGAIL MURPHY

The Dadeville community, rocked by the devastation of the April 15 mass shooting, has come together to support local first responders as they build back the community and make it stronger than before. First responders are ready and determined to continue lending their helping hands throughout the healing process.

For Dadeville Police Chief Johnathan Floyd, the support the police department has received over the past few weeks has been overwhelming.

“The response and the support from the public has been tremendous, but you expect that from the people of Dadeville. Everyone around here has a big heart,” Floyd said.

The Dadeville department was just one of the many law enforcement agencies involved with the investigation. Floyd is thankful not only for the other law enforcement agencies that stepped up when needed, but also for those within his own department who worked tirelessly and without hesitation.

“When this city came together – it is something to be proud of, and everyone in the community should be proud of your Dadeville Police Department. My officers did not flinch. They have been under a tremendous stress and tremendous load, but I tell you it is a privilege for my officers to get to serve our city,” Floyd said at the first Dadeville City Council meeting since the shooting.

The meeting proved an emotional and healing milestone for many throughout the community, including Floyd. Dadeville Mayor Jimmy “Frank” Goodman and the city council members commended the first responders on their hard work and dedication.

“I can tell you, I was almost in tears. The city council and the mayor, their hearts are in the right place. The recognition at the city council meeting was emotional, and it tugged at the heart, but it was also very healing to feel those emotions,” Floyd explained.

Medical staff from numerous hospitals in the community also acted swiftly when it came to aiding the victims following the shooting. Lake Martin Community Hospital and Russell Medical received patients following the crime.

“The nurses and doctors experienced initial shock; and then, immediately, they were able to fall back on the skills that they’ve been trained for. They went right into their action mode,” said Heidi Smith, director of marketing for Ivy Creek Healthcare.

Along with providing medical care for the victims affected by the tragedy, Lake Martin Community Hospital in Dadeville is offering free counseling services to victims, their families and others in the community affected by the shooting.

In Tribute Flowers, balloons, ribbons, crosses and more were laid at the door of the Dadeville dance studio where the five high school students lost their lives and more than 30 others were wounded.

Though treating, caring for and working for justice for everyone involved is a crucial part of the healing process, being a voice for the community is another step on the long road to recovery. The Alex City Outlook news staff were that voice. Verifying information and relating it to the community as quickly and accurately as they could, they were the first media on the scene for several hours after the incident and worked around the clock to report the news in a timely fashion.

Lizi Gwin, managing editor at The Alex City Outlook and The Dadeville Record, heard about the shooting from Erin Burton, TPI’s director of audience development, in the middle of the night and drove to the Dadeville square right away.

“I got a text from Erin at around 11:45 that night saying that there might be a shooter in Dadeville, so I went, and I was there within 15 minutes. I called one of our reporters, Will Marlow, and asked him to call the sheriff to see what was going on. As soon as I made it to Dadeville, I called him back and told him he needed to come,” Gwin explained.

According to Gwin, it wasn’t until 10:30 the next morning that the situation started to sink in, and they were able to readjust and plan how to go about covering such a devastating event.

“We had someone on scene in Dadeville from midnight on April 15 when I got there until 8:30 p.m. the following night. I think I was there until 8 p.m. that night, and I only left for about two hours just to go home and shower and write a story,” Gwin said.

Gwin, who in January returned to the TPI staff after serving as sports editor several years ago, said the most difficult part of covering the shooting was her connection to the community. The staff regularly covers events and stories in Dadeville and have personally connected with individuals throughout the community over the years.

“It was really hard. It was probably the most difficult part of trying to remain and keep your composure despite knowing what’s going on. There were people on scene that I’ve known for years, people milling about waiting on news. I don’t know how we did it,” Gwin explained.

While covering the tragedy from every angle they could think of, the staff also made it a point to be present for the victims and their families and give them the opportunity to share their stories.

Helping Each Other Through It

Top to Bottom: Chief Floyd addresses the Dadeville City Council; Merchants, government buildings and homes showed support by displaying black and gold ribbons; Students lean on each other during the tragedy; TPI reporters map the crime scene.

“I think that a community newspaper is the community’s newspaper. I believe it’s a place where they can have a voice and spread their voice if that’s what they want. Some victims have said ‘I’m not ready to talk at this time,’ and others are ready to tell their story because they just want to talk about it

and heal, and they’re angry. I think giving them a voice is the least we can do,” Gwin said.

Throughout this time, Gwin said she couldn’t be more thankful for the TPI news team and their ability to report on such a heavy topic.

“Our staff was awesome throughout this. Let’s be honest, I’m new to news coverage, too. I’ve only been here three months now, and I was in sports before. I don’t think any of us really knew what we were doing. Nothing prepares you for that,” Gwin explained.

Businesses in the community have also supported those affected. On April 29, Fusion Grill partnered up with Me Mama’s Grub Hub and Sam’s Kountry Kitchen for a feast of hamburgers, hotdogs, pulled pork and more to raise money for the families affected by the recent shooting.

Other area businesses have donned gold and black ribbons on storefronts to show their support. La Kay’s Flowers and Gifts has made dozens of these ribbons, and though almost every storefront on the square has one, several ribbons can be found throughout the Dadeville neighborhoods, too.

Longleaf Antique Mall is collecting monetary donations to help those who are healing. As of April 24, $2,750 had been donated to the cause. Sticks and Stones, a locally owned and operated online business, began selling T-shirts with the adopted slogan, ‘Dadeville Strong.’ The proceeds made from the sales were given to Raven Tolbert, owner of the dance studio where the shooting took place.

Alexander City and other surrounding communities have pledged their support for the victims and families by participating and starting fundraising efforts as well. Xpress Yourself LLC also made ‘Dadeville Strong’ shirts. Those proceeds went directly to Dadeville High School.

These businesses are just a few examples of several area businesses that have aided in the fundraising for the Dadeville community.

In addition, individuals in the community have made bracelets, T-shirts and more and are donating the proceeds to the victims and their families. Countless candlelight vigils have been held for the victims to provide the community a way to grieve the losses while surrounded by friends, family and loved ones.

Another fundraising effort that has gained attention is a GoFundMe page started by the First Baptist Church in

Dadeville. As of May 4, the account had raised over $18,800 for the victims’ families.

Strength and Courage

Left: 'Dadeville Strong' quickly became the cry; Mayor Goodman urges prayer and community support.

Several organizations came together to provide another fundraising opportunity for Dadeville in Alexander City on May 5. SidewayZ, a local car group, hosted the ‘Cars for a Cause’ event to raise money for the victims and families of those affected by the mass shooting.

One of the event organizers, John Gibson, said he knew he wanted to help Dadeville and managed to pull the event together quickly with the help of other community members sympathetic to the cause.

“When something tragic happens … we are going to do something about it,” Gibson said.

Fundraising is just one of the many ways Tallapoosa County residents are supporting Dadeville during this difficult time. A group of area students, Samantha and Wes Robinson, Reagan West and Audrey and Luke Champion, created and hung a banner across the top of Mahogany Masterpiece to remind the community it’s not alone.

“Our community will always have Dadeville’s back. We just want them to know that we feel their pain, and we’re here for them,” West said.

Sports teams across the area are also finding ways to comfort and support Dadeville in their own way. A Chambers County softball team honored two of the victims, “Keke” Smith and “Phil” Dowdell, by spray-painting their jersey numbers on their field. The Horseshoe Bend baseball team wore black jerseys and held a moment of silence before their April 17 game. The Benjamin Russell High School girls soccer team also presented Pike Road, a community with students injured during the mass shooting, with roses and prayers following their game.

The support from around the area is focused on the healing process for Dadeville. Though this tragic event will never be forgotten, the community also will remember the magnitude of the support shown by those in and around Dadeville, as well as the efforts made to ease the grief.

Dadeville is still reeling from the devastation, but persevering has taken over. With support for the victims, families and first responders involved, the close-knit community will forever be Dadeville Strong.

Jazz Fest

STORY BY BETSY ILER

Alexander City’s signature concert series returns next month with a unique and energetic mix of musical styles in Strand Park and at Lake Martin Amphitheater. While the opening acts had not yet been named at Lake Martin Living magazine’s presstime, mid-stage performers and headliners for both Friday and Saturday nights’ shows were set, said Jacob Meacham, CEO and president of Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, which coordinates the two-night event.

Taking the mid-stage at Strand Park on June 9, Adam Ezra Group broke into the music business fusing folk intimacy and rock energy with soul power and pop charm. They played out-ofthe-way bars and house concerts as they built a loyal following around their music and their commitment to activism and social change.

They took their show online when COVID-19 hit, creating The Gathering Series, which now boasts 15 million viewers. Daily livestreams keep the band connected to their audience, and the band hosted a 24-hour nonstop event to raise money to help house veterans during COVID.

Friday’s headliner, Eddie 9V, remembers hanging around Atlanta clubs trying to find a way in.

“My first step in being a professional musician was learning how to accept failure. As a nobody, the music business is a dartboard. You just hope something sticks,” he said.

After PREACHERVAN band members gave him the solo moniker in 2019, Eddie captured the notice of the music press, which earned him enough respect in the music community to recruit musicians with great reputations for his Little Black Flies album. He’s retooled the soul-blues genre on his own terms with blasting horns, rattling drums and howling guitars, as well

as his own unmistakable vocals. The album’s music and lyrics pull from social inequalities and spin stories that speak to the heart.

On Saturday, Of Good Nature will take the Lake Martin Amphitheater mid-stage with a feel-good blend of rock, soul, alternative, reggae and pop. Recent hits from their November 2022 release include Open Your Mind, I’ll Fly, Save the World and Don’t Give Up. In February, they made their fifth appearance on the Train destination music festival at sea, Sail Across the Sun. The band also was selected as a featured artist for its Doing Big Things promotion when they partnered with RoofAbove Charity to raise funds for those in need in their hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina.

Closing the concert series at the AMP with energy to spare will be Big Something, six guys who quickly have become one of the most exciting bands to come up out of the Southeast U.S. They have appeared at Bonnaroo, Peach Music Festival and other big-name festivals and have won critical acclaim from Billboard, Guitar World, Glide Magazine and others, as well as hosted their own summer music festival, The Big What? Visit alexcityjazzfest.com for the complete 2023 lineup for this year’s concert series.

Eddie 9V

Adam Ezra Group

Of Good Nature

Three new events will be on the schedule when Alexander City kicks off the 11th Annual Sun Festival, and these exciting new options look to be fun-filled events you won’t want to miss.

The first new activity on this year’s event roster will be a companion to the longstanding Strand Session opener on Thursday, June 1, said Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Events Kim Dunn.

“We’re going to add a cocktail competition, so you’ll get to taste some of specialty cocktails by our local venues,” Dunn explained. “For $10, you’ll get a small sample size of each cocktail entered; and then, you’ll get a full-size cocktail entry of your choice. You’ll have a special ticket to vote for your favorite sample cocktail, and the entry with the most votes will win a prize.”

This event will take place at the same time as the Strand Sessions concert in Strand Park.

Another new event at this year’s celebration of summer will be bed races on a downtown side street, which will take place on Saturday, June 3, along with the very popular Tykes in Trucks event on Main Street.

“This will be a team sport, so you can get together with your coworkers, your family, your friends, your Bible study group, whoever you want. You’ll decorate a gurney for the race,” Dunn explained. “This one will be hilarious. It’s got fun written all over it.”

The third new event will take place downtown on June 6 when Robin Holcomb will lead participants in a Canvases & Cocktails activity. All painting supplies will be provided, along with a variety of snacks, and participants are welcome to bring a cocktail of their choice or purchase from local downtown bars and restaurants. The cost to participate in this activity will be $30.

Of course, the tried-and-true favorite activities will return for this year’s weeklong Sun Festival,

which features 28 events to entertain family and friends.

Celebrate Summer

Clockwise from Bottom Left: Tykes in Trucks is thrilling for kids and fun for parents and grandparents; Jazz Fest wraps up the celebration in Strand Park; KidsFest at the Splashplex is a great way to spend a hot summer day.

The medallion search will be back June 5 through June 10 this year with a $200 cash prize every day for the winner who solves the riddle and finds the medallion. Riddles will be shared on the Sun Festival, Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and Alexander City Outlook Facebook pages and broadcast on The Front Porch/Kowaliga Country 97.5 at 6 a.m. and again at 7 a.m. If the medallion isn’t found before 3 p.m., an additional riddle will be posted. By far, this search has garnered the most interest of all the events in the history of Sun Festival.

And what kid’s eyes don’t pop at the prolific display of heavy equipment lined up along the downtown streets for the Tykes in Trucks event? With professional supervision, the kids can sit in the driver’s seat in frontend loaders, ALEA Marine Patrol boats, fire trucks, police cars, and more. It’s a childhood dream come true, and it’s free.

Bark in the Park is another popular event that returns this year. This year’s theme is “It’s a Paw-ty,” so dress up the pup for a night on the town. Costume awards will be presented for the cutest; most creative; best theme; best handler/pet duo; and best overall. If your dog has a talent, you’d better start practicing now because the competition at the talent show could be “ruff.”

Consult the complete schedule inserted in this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine or scan the code at the end of this article to peruse all the options available for your enjoyment. It’s Sun Festival time in Alexander City. Time for a celebration.

Remember the

STORY BY BETSY ILER

PHOTO BY KURT PFTIZNER

New this year at Pennington Park’s Memorial Day display will be five hand-crafted transparent statues representing WWI and WWII military service personnel guarding the display of 2,000 U.S. flags, said park owner Kurt Pfitzner.

“There will be a WWI infantryman; a WWII soldier, a Navy man and a nurse at the ends of the walkway through the flag, and at the flagpole, there will be an officer holding a salute in respect and remembrance,” said Pfitzner, a retired Air Force colonel who has 32 years of active service.

Pfitzner and his wife, Leigh, purchased the last remaining undeveloped block in downtown Dadeville more than five years ago and dedicated it as a community park. Four years ago, they created a patriotic flag display on the park lawn with 2,000 flags laid out around a walkway in the shape of a cross to represent military personnel who had died. Two years ago, they added more than a hundred military grave markers that bear the names of deceased service members with local connections. Pfitzner wants to add to the display every year, and this year’s addition has been an investment of heart and hands.

“Montevallo has faces carved into the trees, and we wanted to do something with that effect but not damage the trees,” Pfitzner said.

He was inspired by two wire statue displays, one in England and one at Chuck’s Marina on Lake Martin.

“I saw where a woman in England made about 30, and I thought they looked pretty cool. Of course, I can’t make that many. It takes 12 to 15 hours for each one,” Pfitzner said. “At Chuck’s Marina, they have a chicken wire parakeet, and when I saw that, I thought, ‘I can do that.’ It’s a much smaller gauge wire than the life-size statues.”

Pfitzner used a mannequin to help fashion the heads of his statues; and then, he made various body parts to scale and wired them together.

“I stood beside the statue I was making to determine where the shoulders and hips should be,” he explained. “It was like sewing with wire. It takes a lot of twisting, moving, molding and shaping. It got easier with every one that I did.”

The statues are generic in nature without a great deal of detail, although uniform details – such as boots, pith helmet and nurse’s cap – are recognizable in the shaping of the wire.

“The realism is in the generic image. The transparency is meant to evoke emotion, to represent those who have gone before us. When you have those images of soldiers from the past guarding their fellow men and women in arms, it evokes a sense of pride, remembrance and respect, whether or not they died in battle,” Pfitzner said.

The four statues at the ends of the flag walkways are enlisted personnel, Pfitzner said, but the one at the flagpole is an officer in service cap and formal uniform.

“He is saluting the troops. That’s the ultimate recognition, holding a salute during the playing of taps. The officer will hold that salute to each representative of the flags in respect and remembrance,” he explained.

Two wreaths also will be displayed at the park, and Pfitzner said Langley Funeral Home donated enough military markers to accommodate recognizing as many as 300 service members. A directory display will identify the location of each named marker, he said.

Honor and Respect

These transparent figures will watch over fallen military during the annual Memorial Day display at Pennington Park.

The Memorial Day exhibit will open May 22 at Pennington Park and will remain up through the weekend. To request a marker dedication, contact Pfitzner at 334-233-9852.

What month is it?

It’s May. The lake is filling up. The thunderstorms are easing. And the sun is coming out. You’re anticipating summer fun with Memorial Day weekend just around the corner. Outdoor concerts, lazy afternoons on the lake, boat rides and dining al fresco at one of our numerous excellent lakeside restaurants.

Don’t forget your sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using at least an SPF 30 sunscreen (SPF stands for sun protection factor). SPF is a measure of the amount of solar radiation it would take to get sunburned compared to no sunscreen. In other words, it would take 30 times the amount of sun exposure to burn you – if you’re using an SPF 30 sunscreen – than it would otherwise take if you were unprotected.

That does NOT mean you can stay out in the sun for 30 hours instead of just one hour. According to the FDA, it’s a measure not of time in the sun, but of intensity of solar radiation. You’re probably aware from personal experience that you’ll burn much faster at noon than you would at 9 a.m. May is National Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month. I hope you took advantage of the free skin screening offered by Russell Medical on Melanoma Monday (May 1). But if you didn’t, you can always make an appointment with Dr. Steven Mackey or with the Surgical Dermatology Group. It’s important, especially if you are fair skinned, to get screened every year. But even if you’re olive-skinned, like me, or darker, you are still at risk for skin cancer, though your risk is lower than melanin-deficient folks of Northern European descent.

There are three types of skin cancer: basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma. According to the American Cancer Society, basal and squamous cell skin cancers rarely spread beyond the initial tumor site and are very treatable. Deaths from these two types of skin cancer are extremely rare.

Melanoma is another story. Melanoma can be very aggressive, invading nearby lymph nodes and traveling to other parts of the body. It is especially important to identify and treat melanoma early. What do you look for? The AIM at Melanoma Foundation offers an easy mnemonic: the ABCDE’s of melanoma:

n A: Asymmetry – the lesion isn’t nice and round or oval. One half doesn’t match the other half.

n B: Borders are irregular, notched, ragged.

n C: Colors range from brown and black, to blue, white, gray or red.

n D: Diameter is ¼ inch or larger (although if you’re diligent in checking your moles, you can catch it before it gets so big).

n E: Evolution – the lesion changes over time –usually just a few months.

If you think you might have a melanoma, don’t delay. See your doctor.

On a less sinister but equally important note, May is also Osteoporosis Awareness Month. Osteoporosis is

the weakening of one’s skeleton, which naturally occurs with age and is related to decreased levels of sex hormones. Women are at greater risk, but men can also develop osteoporosis. Long-term steroid use can also contribute to developing weak bones. Osteoporosis increases your risk of skeletal fractures, including hip and pelvic fractures and vertebral compression fractures.

Medicare covers screening for osteoporosis at 100 percent every 24 months (provided your physician “accepts assignment;” i.e., accepts Medicare’s set rates for services). A bone density test determines whether you are osteopenic (a precursor condition) or osteoporotic. The test is performed on a DEXA (dual X-ray absorptiometry) scan device, which is basically an X-ray machine on a table.

There are several effective oral drugs to treat osteoporosis (bisphosphonates), but for folks who can’t tolerate the oral drugs, or for whom those drugs are not sufficiently effective, a physician can prescribe a once-ayear 15-minute infusion (zoledronic acid) or a twice-ayear subcutaneous injection (denosumab). While these are pricey, they end up costing about the same over the course of a year as the pills. Medicare covers both the injection and the infusion under the Medicare B (outpatient) benefit.

May 26 is National Heat Awareness Day . . . as if we’re not already aware of the heat in Alabama. C’mon.

I facilitate a monthly cancer survivor support group at Russell Medical. It meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Hardy Community Room on the first floor of our professional building. It’s free, and it’s open to anyone under treatment or who has completed treatment for cancer. We don’t usually have a speaker or presentation, but we’re making an exception for the June 5 meeting. Dadeville resident and art instructor Kay Fincher will show us how to journal with art (as opposed to words). Materials will be provided. We don’t require reservations, but if you plan on coming, please let me know, so I can make sure we have enough art supplies. You can call me at 256-329-7259 or e-mail me at gmiranda@russellmedcenter.com. My friend and neighbor Kenny Dean will remind you all as we get closer to June 5.

Your home for the arts in Alabama

Learn more about upcoming performances and purchase tickets online.

~ George Miranda is the Director of the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center.

George Miranda

Stress-free Vacations

Vacations can be expensive, and trips often don’t go as planned. But with smart financial planning, you can enjoy a stress-free trip while still living within your means. To help get you started, here are four tips I give my clients to help them prepare for summer vacations. I’ve also included a bonus tip that you might not be thinking of but could be a lifesaver for your finances.

n Open a savings account to build your vacation fund. The first step in planning finances for a vacation is setting up a separate savings account to fund it. Keeping your savings separate lets you see exactly how much you’ve put away and helps you leave it alone. By allocating a portion of your income into this account, you can make consistent progress toward your goal. When my clients start planning, I recommend saving 3 percent of each paycheck for their vacation funds.

n Create a realistic budget. A budget will help you spend wisely when you’re on your trip, but you have to be realistic about your spending habits. Are you going to buy that unique necklace you’ve found in a local gift shop, no matter what?

Then, plan to buy something special. Setting a realistic budget that allows for those fun purchases will make it easier to avoid post-vacation debt. It’s great to splurge; you’ve earned it. But planning ahead will help ensure you don’t break the bank.

n Use your banking app to stay on track. Setting your budget was the first step: Now you must stick to it. Most banks have great tools within their apps to help you stick to a budget. Try things like setting a daily spending limit and creating spending alerts, so you can track where your money is going. Then, adjust your budget as needed in real time.

MONEY MATTERS

n Be flexible. Planning is going to help you get the most bang for your buck, and you can’t start too soon. Starting early lets you book travel during the offseason; avoid peak-season price spikes; and set up deal alerts on travel websites, so you get the best deals on hotels and rental vehicles. Booking early and shopping around for deals is easy to do and could add up to big savings.

n Now here’s that bonus tip I mentioned earlier: Use a credit card to keep your finances secure.

Most cards offer fraud protection and travel insurance benefits that could be valuable if a card is lost or stolen. A credit card also could be your financial safety net if there is a mid-trip emergency. In addition to these features, many credit cards offer moneysaving perks and budgeting tools. Be sure to check with your bank to see if they offer nointerest or rewards cards for travelling.

Remember, vacation is a time to splurge and spend the money you’ve worked hard for, but planning, setting a budget and using your bank’s resources will help you do it without breaking the bank.

~ Teresa Grier is vice president, market manager, at Valley Bank, Alexander City branch. She has been banking in the area for 35 years.

Teresa Grier

"Inherit the Wind"

Saturday, April 15, 2023

Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium

1. Harris and Lindsay Goree

2. Ashton Clayton and Ella Grace Simmons

3. Jacob Iler

4. Mary Bella Pemberton

5. Shannon Culver

6. Paul Robinson

7. Jack Wright

8. Keith Garrett

9. Dave Upton, Steve Thomas and Rodney Meadows

10. Dick Chambliss, Mike Thomas and Dale Haines

11. Sophie, Graden and John Hill

April 21-22, 2023

Standard Deluxe, Waverly

280 Boogie

1. Lisa Scebra and Kelly Weigans

2. Sami Rice and Elsie Farley

3. Whitt Dorset and Kelsey Rushing

4. Teri Lawhorn and Bre Walton

5. Dominque Allen and Andres Soulder

6. Hunter May and Brittany Johnson

7. Bryn Chambless, Ben Creek and Kassidy Graham

OH SNAP!

Gumbo Getdown

Saturday, April 15, 2023

Downtown Alexander City

1. Allie and Brandon Sharpe

2. Kathy Berry

3. Payton and Donna Catrett

4. Angel Cooper and Lacey and Francie Bea Carlisle

5. Todd and Amy Clark

6. Liz Holland, Lizi Gwin and Michelle West

Water Cycle & Dam Jam

Saturday, April 22, 2023

Martin Dam

1. Emily Skowrownek, John Morris and Chris Goodman

2. Thomas and Randy Evans

3. Molly, Lucy and Abby Goodman and Olivia, Claire and Emma Brodbeck

4. Kareena Goyal and Katy Flaherty

5. Graham Kkaplowitz, Cole Shankles and Oren Miller

6. Cameron Morgan, Cullen Blanton and Anna Woods

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

Charles

Monday, May 8, 2023

E. Bailey Sportplex

1. Cindy Trimble

2. Misha Craver, Sallie Mason and Jean Wilson

3. Carolyn Baker

4. Mary Allen, Jackie Wesson, Linda Rotland and Jane

Strickland

5. Marie Atkinson

6. Lynn Phurrough

7. Fran Goudzwaard and Judy Walton

Art in the Park

Saturda, May 6, 2023

Pennington Park, Dadeville

1. Jamie Sailors and becky Sharpe

2. Bj Kosmak and Jasmine 'Jazzy'

3. Shannon McDuffie

4. Sandy and Chris Totte

5. Kim Walls and Amanda Ford

6. Katie and Sylvie King and Beth Lomenick

Get Social

There’s no better way to spend a summer evening than gathering for fun and a good cause, and Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce will serve up both at the Mitchell House on June 13. The Third Annual BBQ Social will kick off at 6 p.m. with drinks, dancing, good food and great company to raise scholarship monies for local high school students.

“One of the biggest things for us is doing things for our kids. They are our future, and we do as much as we can for them,” said Chamber Executive Assistant Molly Parker. “We like to bring the community together, and we always get a good response with this event.”

Blackberry Breeze provides the entertainment, setting the tone with a variety of musical styles.

“They are our local favorite. They play a great, wide genre,” Parker said.

businesses and include gift cards, baskets and more. The event also includes a 50/50 drawing, which always adds an element of surprise to the night.

The evening winds up at 9 p.m., so you won’t even be late for work on Tuesday.

Tickets are $30 and must be purchased in advance. The cut-off date is noon on June 7. Call Parker at 256-825-4019 or stop by the chamber office at 345 E. LaFayette St., Suite 102, Dadeville, for tickets.

May 16 & 17

Dadeville Community Chorus Spring Concert

Local musicians have been practicing for months, so come out and enjoy their selection of traditional patriotic anthems and sing along to well known songs. This show sold out one performance last year, so a second show has been added this year. The concert begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 at the door. For tickets, visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

the Senior Center in the sportplex in Alexander City. Lunch will be served after the presentation. Lunch is free for members; $5 for non-members.

May 26 & 27 RXR Fest

June 2

Larry Whitfield at Dadeville Performing Arts Center

Larry Whitfield returns to his old digs at The Red Door to share some country music and family memories at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

June 3

Intro to Sailing

May

17 Games & Puzzles

In the spirit of this year’s summer reading theme, All Together Now, bring the kids to Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City at 10 a.m. to make new friends, have fun and explore the wonderful world of books. New games this year include Pound-AMole, Let’s Go Fishing, Toss Across and more.

May 17

Artist Association of Central Alabama

Debra Davis will share how she came to her current style, using an an approach she started using in the 1970s. The program will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Senior Center in the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City. Lunch will be served after the presentation. Lunch is free for members; $5 for non-members.

May 23-25

Still Life in Oils

Capturing the Light

Join Manon Sander for this threeday workshop at Tallapoosa School of Art in Dadeville. In an immersive painting retreat, Manon will break down her process step by step to foster your confidence and replace the trial-anderror approach with informed decision making. Visit tallapoosaworkshops.com to register and for more information.

May 24

Artist Association of Central Alabama

Rebecca Mitchell will offer some perspectives on 3Dart, starting with a butterfly in various forms and discussing how they can be used. The program will begin at 9:30 a.m. at

Come out to Russell Crossroads at 6:30 p.m. for a free Memorial Day weekend concert series. Friday’s concert will feature The Bank Walkers and Sam Burchfield. Saturday’s music will include Andrew Weaver and Easy Honey. Food trucks will be there to serve up your dinner or bring a cooler with your favorite picnic snacks and beverages.

May 27

Chuck’s Marina Adoption Event

Big Dog Ranch will visit Chuck’s Marina on Lake Martin with lots of dogs that need forever homes – big dogs, small dogs, dogs with spots and personality. Fall in love and take one home from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

May 27-28

Art on the Lake

This two-day event at Russell Crossroads features the works of local and regional artisans. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, you’ll find jewelry, reclaimed wood décor, paintings, pottery, metalwork, photography, candles, soaps and more at one of the lake area’s most popular juried art shows. For more information, call Sydnee Riley at 256-212-1431 or send an email to her at sriley@russelllands. com.

June 1

Craft-a-Noon

Spend the afternoon getting creative at 2 p.m. at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City as children make crafts to go with this year’s summer reading program theme.

May 31

Artist Association of Central Alabama

Don’t miss Mack Goddard and James Stone’s introduction to gourd art at 9:30 a.m. at the Senior Center at the sportplex in Alexander City. Lunch will be served after the presentation. Lunch is free for members; $5 for nonmembers.

Dixie Sailing Club on Lake Martin will offer a free introduction to sailing course from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., including a short course on the basics of the sport; the parts of a sailboat; and a capsizing and recovery demonstration. Lunch and refreshments will be provided, along with an opportunity to skipper a small sailboat or sail on larger boats with club members. Bring a life jacket, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and a change of clothes. To learn more or register, email cat221@msn.com or call Keith Bennett at 334-324-9383.

June 5

Summer Reading Kickoff

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City will kick off this summer’s reading program, All Together Now, at 10 a.m. at the sportplex with a visit from Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor group. Visit the library at 284 Church St. or sign up through the website at alexandercityal.beanstack.com.

June 5-9

Keepers of the Kingdom VBS

First Baptist Church in Dadeville will host a week of lessons on the Armor of God in the context of castles and kingdoms for Vacation Bible School this week. Call 256-825-6282 for details.

June 6

Movie Day

Catch a movie at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City at 2 p.m. in keeping with this year’s summer reading theme, All Together Now.

LAKE REGION EVENTS

June 6-9

Youth Sailing Camp

Dixie Sailing Club will conduct a youth sailing camp for ages 7 to 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., covering basic sailing skills, water safety and STEM sessions. Fee is $125 with a discount available for siblings. For details, email dscypmail@gmail.com.

June 7

KidsFest Magic Show

Sun Festival’s KidsFest Magic Show will partner with Mamie’s Place Children Library at 284 Church St., Alexander City, at 10 a.m. for an All Together Now program.

June 8

Craft-a-Noon

Spend the afternoon getting creative at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City as children make crafts to go with this year’s summer reading program theme, All Together Now Meet at 2 p.m. at 284 Church St.

June 10

HOBO Breakfast Meeting

Members will elect officers at this annual meeting at First Baptist Church, 178 S. Tallassee St., Dadeville. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. with speakers and business conducted from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sign up at lakemartinhobos.com.

June 10

BRHS Class of 1973 Reunion

The 1973 Class of Benjamin Russell High School is celebrating their 50th reunion at 6 p.m. The festivities will take place at The Ridge Club, 40 North Ridge, Alexander City. There will be a food truck to purchase burgers, barbeque and more. Soft drinks and water will be provided. Those wanting to enjoy a cocktail or beer should bring their own. Email Carroll Horton Magro at CarrollMagro@gmail.com for more information.

June

11

Pennington Park Farmers Market

Visit Pennington Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to get freshly picked produce and home-baked goods at the farmers market.

June 13

Mr. Larry’s Magic

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City will present a magic show focused on this year’s summer reading program theme, All Together Now, at 10 a.m. The library is located at 284 Church St.

June 14

Games & Puzzles

Bring the kids to Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City at 10 a.m. to make new friends, have fun and explore the wonderful world of books in this summer reading program on the theme of All Together Now. New games this year include Operation, Dancing Challenge and more.

June 15

McWane Center

Bring the kids to Mamie’s Place Children Library in Alexander City at 10 a.m. for a wild morning of science about things that stay together - or apart in keeping with this year’s summer reading theme, All Together Now. The program is free, and it’s not too late to sign up.

June 17

Main Street

Farmers Market Opens

Main Street Alexander City will open the Farmers Market from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through September. Pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, jellies, jams, breads, baked goods, handmade items and more at the market’s location in the old City Hall parking lot on Main Street.

June 20

Animal Tales

Join the fun at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library at 10 a.m. for an Animal Tale program in conjunction with the summer reading program, All Together Now

Season-long Events

Friday On The Green

There’s free music on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads every Friday night this summer, except during Jazz Fest. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, pups on the leash and coolers.

There will be food trucks and lawn games. Friday On The Green is a great way to kickstart your weekend at the lake.

LMYP Game Night

Every third Thursday of the month, grab your crew and meet at The Local at 41 Main in downtown Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for games, laughs and exclusive LMYP drink specials. It’s free to play the games, like trivia and bingo and more, and the grand prize is always $50. Visit the Lake Martin Young Professionals Facebook page for more information.

The Waverly Local Music

The Waverly Local features live music every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., as well as Saturday in the courtyard from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and for Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For details and lineup, visit The Waverly Local on Facebook.

Driving & Docking Clinics

Boost your confidence and learn to operate and dock your boat during these free clinics at Singleton Marine. Sessions are held at 9:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Call 256-825-8888 or email lnowling@singletonmarine.com to reserve your free spot.

n First Wednesday of each month through August - Pontoons

n Second Wednesday of each month through August - Sterndrives

n Third Wednesday of each month through August - Tow Boats

Music & Related Arts Program

Dadeville Performing Arts Center, with Everything’s Art, will provide an integrated music/art/dance/drama enrichment program for students in Dadeville Elementary School summer school. Register for this program through Dadeville Elementary School.

Strand Sessions

Lake Martin Young Professionals will host free music in Strand Park in downtown Alexander City at 6 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month from May through August. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. Visit the Lake Martin Young Professionals Facebook Page for the lineup.

Yoga on the Green

Russell Lands will host yoga on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m. on Saturday mornings from Memorial Day weekend to the end of September. Bring a mat, water bottle and towel and start your weekend at Lake Martin with yoga in the open air.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

Volunteers in Alexander City and Dadeville are encouraged to participate in community partnership cleanups every month. In Alexander City, the cleanups are held on the third Saturday of the month. Meet at Broad Street Plaza at 8:30 a.m. for supplies and area assignments. Contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289 for mroe information. In Dadeville, Meet at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall on the second Saturday of the month. There also will be a trash bag drop-off on site. Contact Mickey Forbus at 334-329-0905.

Fiber Fridays

Bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint, embroidery and other fiber art projects to The Yarn Shop Around the Corner in Dadeville from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fridays to meet fellow fiber artisans, share tips and techniques and talk with others who share your interests. For more information, call 334-444-1038.

Music in the Air

Zazu’s Verandah on the beautiful courthouse square in Dadeville hosts live music under the canopy or inside the Listening Room on Thursday evenings at 6:30 p.m. Beverages are available for sale. Admission is free, but please tip the musicians.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

Naturalist Marianne fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl, just to mention a few. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature in the wild and the outdoor classroom. Check the calendar at RussellLands. com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

“Hey folks call or come see us today. We are located at 1965 Eastern Blvd. in Montgomery just across the street from Lowe’s. We have a huge inventory of carpet, vinyl, hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl plank, ceramic and porcelain tile. We also do custom area rugs, countertops, blinds, and a variety of window coverings. We offer a “Low Price Promise” and professionally install everything we sell. Don’t pay too much or miss out on the great service at Georgia Floors Direct. We’ve been Flooring the River Region for Over 50 Years.”

Jeff Mallinson, Owner

Legend

Public Boat Ramps

Lake Martin

Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

River North Marina 256-397-1500

Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700

Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793

SpringHouse 256-215-7080

Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

Acapulco Mexican Gril 334-283-2725

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

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

Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

Kowaliga Whole Health 334-857-1816

Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847 Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717

Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820

Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293

Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc 334-857-2443

Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

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Fried Catfish

The lights are beginning to twinkle, and it is not Christmastime. I am talking about green lights. The Green Monster lights that are attached at the end of the docks and provide endless hours of late night entertainment for children and adults alike. They cast an eerie green glow, and beneath the dark water, large black shapes emerge, convene and slowly swim about. But don’t cue the Jaws theme song yet; it just means it is time for a catfish fry.

Spring at Lake Martin lends itself to many crawfish boils; you tend to get invited to at least four or five. They are messy, and if you are trying to keep an outfit or your face clean, you pick out the sausage and work with what you have. We all eventually get a little crawfished out, and that is not really a problem because it means it is time to start thinking about fish fries.

South). My grandparents (and great-grandparents before them) ran the old Lake Hill Restaurant on the hill by the River Bridge, and there is no telling how much catfish they cooked. I have one of the old menus framed in my kitchen, and a catfish plate was $6.25 in the ’70s. It makes me laugh because it expressly reads: “includes one trip to the salad bar.” People will take advantage if you let them, and my Gran was no sucker.

I am of th authority to emphasize that you should cook your catfish. We have lots of lake residents from out of state now who love a good fancy ceviche dish. I had a great friend and client from California call me up and ask if she could make ceviche from the catfish her kids had just caught. It gave me pause because I had only fried my catfish. I checked with Chef Rob McDaniel, and he said it’s best not to eat that raw (Lake Martin waters are too warm for that).

Culture Shock

I remember being a child and sitting at Piney Woods Restaurant (the one that is now Kowaliga Whole Health vet clinic), sticking to a red vinyl chair, and carefully picking the white flaky meat from the delicate fish bones. Adults always harped on and on about being careful to not get a bone caught in my throat. It was a relief when I could find catfish fingers advertised as boneless in the grocery store; and even then, the adults still warned to be careful of the bones and somehow managed to make eating catfish scary.

The catfish industry is a huge part of Alabama’s economy. It started in the 1960s in Hale County, and Alabama is still one of the nation’s leading producers, along with Arkansas and Mississippi. According to the Encyclopedia of Alabama, many factors make Alabama ideal for catfish farming, including our “warm season, appropriate topography, waterretentive soil and plentiful rainfall, as well as river water to maintain ponds. Economic factors include low energy costs, good transportation systems, and the presence of Auburn University scientists and graduate students with expertise in fisheries. In addition, the channel catfish itself is well-suited for farming. The fish need only be fed once a day because its large stomach will hold feed for hours, and it is highly adaptable to various living conditions.”

Before the 1970s, the public did not always view catfish as good to eat (I don’t think that was ever the case in the Deep

While this is not an article about how to catch catfish (I am not an authority of catching, just eating), I think it’s safe to say that it’s not rocket science. Go buy that little blue plastic container of real worms at the gas station, and you are well on your way. If you are looking for an experience, I would say Captain David Hare is the man to call.

I luckily live a few houses over from Kenny Broome, so I have never had to hunt down fish. I wish I could explain that to homebuyers when they are house shopping, but it is hard to quantify why a lake house might be more valuable because you are in close proximity to a great fisherman or cook. It is a real value-add, but folks just have to figure it out for themselves.

Back to eating. When preparing catfish, definitely soak them in buttermilk first. I asked my husband, John, how he does our catfish seasoning, and he said “1/2 flour, 1/2 cornmeal and Tony Chachere’s seasoning (all of this eyeballed of course).”

It is best boiled in peanut oil, but use what you have. Then, fry the onion rings, the green tomatoes, the French fries and the hush puppies. Squeeze the lemon all over it. Best served up with ketchup and freshly sliced raw white onion.

My pants are getting tight just thinking about it. Send me an invite, y’all!

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

Lacey Howell

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