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DRIVEN 2017

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DRIVEN 2017

FROM THE PUBLISHER In the newspaper industry, there are a lot of opportunities to stop and reflect on the good work happening in our community. With every issue, I’m reminded of these acts and how they help bind us together as a community. In most newspapers at which I’ve been Publisher, we have annually compiled editorial content that focuses on the community, the development and direction it’s headed and the good work of people in it. This annual edition commonly is Steve Baker one of the most sought-after publications we produce, and it’s a great way to shine light on some folks that might otherwise go unnoticed. Often called a progress edition in other markets, our issues of Parade focus on lifestyle, sports, academics, business and government, local arts and organizations. This year’s issue of Parade will focus on what I like to call ‘drivers’ – ordinary people who are deeply committed to the community and who, through their efforts and leadership, help move the community forward. Our goal here at Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., is to work with community members to help craft a newspaper that is a reflection of the community and serves the community’s needs. Sometimes that involves using ideas other newspapers have implemented or bringing to your doorstep ideas that I have implemented in other papers. This issue, we will highlight drivers in our community, those key folks who work tirelessly behind the scenes to create a better place to live and work. And, I’ll give you a tip; it’s not simply the mayor or a councilperson. It very well could be your next-door neighbor that spends endless hours with youth sports, like Jim Gunnels at Lakewinds Golf Course, or a teacher who stays late into the evening to rehearse a school play, like Ashley Gresko in Dadeville. These are the local people who enrich the lives of our youth. It’s folks like Dadeville Police Officer Chris Martin and Kellyton Volunteer Fire Chief Jerry Sewell, who make the extra effort to keep us safe; Blake Beck, who found financial solutions to keep the county’s budget in the black; and Jamie Dark, who had to do something when she learned kids were coming to school hungry. These are folks who step up, roll up their sleeves and put their hands and hearts to work to improve the lives of their friends and neighbors. And we applaud them and their ideas. Great ideas that highlight great people. There is no doubt that Alexander City and Dadeville are towns with great potential, and key leadership from their citizens will help these communities grow and continue to be vibrant economic, educational and cultural locations.

Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Assistant Magazine Editor Amy Passaretti Art Director Audra Spears Editorial Mitch Sneed, Managing Editor Cliff Williams Cathy Higgins Alethia Russell Lonna Upton Advertising Tippy Hunter, Advertising Director Scott Hardy Emily Gregg Tabby Edwards Donna Jones Composing Darlene Johnson Hallie Holloway Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-4281 www.alexcityoutlook.com

Steve Baker Publisher 4

STAFF

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000234650r1

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CONTENTS

“Working together, we can all make sure that our city is viable for our children in the future.” ~ Buffy Colvin

THE GOOD LIFE ......................................................... 16 The Howells ................................................................ 18 Eric & Misty Brown...................................................... 21 On the Trail of Jimmy Lanier ....................................... 22 Shane Harris................................................................. 24 Sawyer Davis ............................................................... 24 David Studivant .......................................................... 28 Events All Year Long ................................................... 32 Julie Hudson ............................................................... 38 Amy Meacham ............................................................ 38 Dr. Eric Tyler ................................................................ 39 Horshoe Bend ............................................................. 40 Wind Creek State Park ................................................ 42

Where We’ve Been .................................................. 10 Jim Nabors .............................................................. 12 Wayne Smith ............................................................ 13 Phil Blasingame ........................................................ 13 Jeff Walker ............................................................... 13

54 SPORTS & ACADEMICS CACC’s Susan Burrow ..................................................46 Dale Bloodworth ..........................................................48 Molly Cross ..................................................................48 Spirit of the Generals ...................................................49 Kyle Caldwell ...............................................................50 Ryan & Ashley Gresko...................................................51 Dadeville Elementary ...................................................52 Lyman Ward Military Academy ....................................52 Sonny Wilson: The Sportplex .......................................54 Youth Golf.....................................................................58

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CULTURE & CLUBS Lake Martin Young Professionals ...................62 Guardians of the Lake ....................................65 Christ-centered community ............................66 Whole Lotta Muscle .......................................67 Advancing the Arts.........................................69 BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT Downtown Streetscape ..................................72 Alexander City Stats in 30 seconds ................74 Buffy Colvin: A Woman on a Mission..............75 John of all Trades............................................76 The man other men wish they were................77 Dadeville’s Most Famous ...............................77 Family Man ....................................................80 Ed Collari .......................................................81 Sandra Fuller ..................................................81 Mike Smith......................................................81 Leadership Lake Martin .................................83 Chris Martin....................................................84 Jerry Sewell....................................................84

“We are a great little town trying to find its identity again. We have a lot of work to do, but we also have a lot of talented people here ... who are perfectly capable of making it happen.” ~ Eric Brown

NEIGHBORS Tom & Riley Goree ................................................................................. 89 Brian Hendrix.......................................................................................... 90 Mia Chandler ......................................................................................... 91 Jamie Dark.............................................................................................. 91 Kevin & Anna Speaks ............................................................................. 93 Letter from Publisher................................................................................ 4 Staff.......................................................................................................... 4 Business Card Directory.......................................................................... 94 Our Advertisers ..................................................................................... 97

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1814 Airport Blvd Alexander Cit y, AL 35010

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DRIVEN 2017

334.279.3101 Montgomery

WHERE WE’VE BEEN STORY BY BETSY ILER

or almost 300 years, European settlers have called this section of the piedmont plateau home – before it became part of the United States in the Creek secession of Native American lands following the 1814 Battle of Horseshoe Bend on our own Tallapoosa River; before wars with hard won freedoms; before Alexander City burned to the ground in 1902; the Great Depression and civil rights; before Russell Corporation was founded and, 112 years later, floundered here, a resilient and steadfast people called this area home. The pioneers who came from the Carolinas and Georgia to settle here in the 1830s had vision, spunk and dedication, not unlike their descendants and compatriots who 40 years later succeeded in their courtship of the Savannah and Memphis Railroad. “The train is our history,” explained MainStreet Alexander City Director Richard Wagoner. “It has been since the 1870s when the town changed its name from Youngville to Alexander City.” The railroad connected the young city to commerce and made possible the textile mills that for more than 100 years defined the area and at its height created 7,000 jobs. “I remember growing up and working downtown in the 60s,” Wagoner said. “There were five drugstores downtown – seven furniture stores. It was thriving.” Change came when U.S. Highway 280 was built to bypass the town, he said. “Businesses moved to shopping centers along the highway, and downtown store owners covered the brick facades to resemble the strip malls. It was new and trendy, and the

whole country went that way. And the city continued to thrive with a Fortune 500 company in town,” he said of the Russell Corporation heydays. But in 1998, Russell Corporation cut 4,000 jobs and shifted operations to more lucrative overseas locations. More job cuts followed, and the city’s largest employer moved its headquarters to Atlanta. “We knew what had to be done,” said Don McClellan, now Director of the Lake Martin Area Economic Development Alliance who was mayor at the time. Local leaders have positioned Alexander City as a prime location for new industry, targeting manufacturers with a ready workforce, warehouse facilities and excess utility service capabilities. But having learned the value of diversification, they also looked for other opportunities in the growing tourism industry. The Alexander City Chamber of Commerce earlier this year opened the Lake Martin Innovation Center to foster entrepreneurial endeavors and offer support services to mobile business people visiting Lake Martin. And leaders have looked to the lake for tourism dollars, as the area’s population soars from April to September when recreational boating and watersports swell sales tax revenues from grocery stores, lakeside marinas, hotels and restaurants, creating tourism jobs. “We’ve been through some things, and we’ve seen a lot of changes,” Wagoner said. “There are good things happening here.”

Alexander City Mayor

Jim Nabors

An indebted servant striving to give back

STORY & PHOTO BY BETSY ILER

im Nabors is a man who lives under the privilege of debt. “I owe a lot to this community,” said the man who won a landslide victory in Alexander City’s mayoral election last year. “I came here from Birmingham without two nickels to rub together when I was 26.” Before he turned 30, Nabors was a corporate manager at Russell Corporation. “At Russell, you were expected to serve the community, to give it back, and that’s my desire, to give to the community that’s been so good to me,” he explained. His giving has included service for civic concerns from the local school board to the Alabama School of Fine Arts and chairman of the hospital board. But what he’d like most for people to remember about him, Nabors said, is that he is a man who is true to his word. “I am committed to doing what I say I will do,” he said. “I have borrowed money at the end of the year to pay my church pledge. I was married to the same lady, Marie, for 53 years before she passed, and my goal in life is to keep enough money so the check for my funeral expenses won’t bounce and give back the rest of it.” Following the death of his wife, Nabors met with a series of serious health issues, and it was the support of the community and the concern of friends that gave him the strength and courage to fight his way to wellness. “My friends encouraged me to run for mayor, too,” he laughed, musing good-naturedly at their intentions. 12

Running for office was new ground for the former executive vice president and chief financial officer of Russell Corporation. “I have never asked for a job or a raise in my life, and then, I asked to be mayor,” he said. Under his tenure as mayor, Nabors hopes to put the city’s finances in order, improve infrastructure and help to attract and grow industry that will absorb Alexander City’s excess utility capacity. “I think we need to put on a new face, and there’s a lot of work to be done,” he said. “Through attrition and efficiency, I want to pay fewer people more money and save money where we can. “We have eliminated the take-home cars. It might not have been a popular decision, but it wasn’t being reported as income, and it was unnecessary and costly for the city. “We need industry to replace the overcapacity we have in sewer and water facilities, and we need more gas customers, more utility customers,” he added. And while he recognizes that achieving these goals could be difficult, Nabors doesn’t view his work as a burden. “It’s a joy,” he said, “to be able to do this for the place that has been nothing but a home run since I got here.”

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Dadeville Mayor, Wayne Smith What Dadeville Mayor Wayne Smith finds most motivating in his community is the selfless nature of the residents with their desire to help one another at all costs. As a lifelong native to the area, Smith has seen people, churches and organizations ban together during a disaster or when a family is in need. “It’s an honor and a privilege to serve my hometown. It’s a good place to grow up, a good place to raise children and a good place to retire. This community has given me a lot over the years, so I wanted to give back by serving,” said Smith. Visions of growth drive Smith to want to do some good for his community. He said there are some new businesses coming in, an extensive paving project beginning in the town shortly and a project to enhance the courthouse coming within the year. Not only is he hoping to land another industry in the industrial park, but also, he wants to focus on bringing in small business as well. “I want to see this town grow at a good rate and see its people prosper. Like any city, we may have our issues, but we sure do have some great opportunities as well,” said Smith. Now semi-retired, Smith worked full-time for Hill Petroleum and was able to switch to part-time since his election. He served on the Dadeville City Council from 1995-2004.

Wayne Smith

New Site Mayor, Phil Blasingame

Phil Blasingame

First-time New Site Mayor Phil Blasingame’s main hope is to provide quality services that may be lacking in his community to ensure all residents a great quality of life. One important goal is to bring a doctor’s office to town, so residents, especially senior citizens, don’t have to travel for medical attention. He also hopes to improve senior citizen services and improve various programs and facilities for children and athletics. “It’s one of the reasons I decided to run. I felt I had the energy, the contacts and the motivation to make something like this happen,” said Blasingame. This is the New Site native’s first-ever involvement with town government. He said he’s not a career politician, but it’s always been on his bucket list to work with city council and make an impact in his hometown, where everyone knows each other. “I think anyone that serves has to have drive for various reasons. It’s a lot of work and a lot of time, and you have to be in it for the right reasons. You do it for the good of the people and the community,” said Blasingame. Blasingame said he enjoys working with the council and that all employees are dedicated to collaborate on goals that benefit the entire community, which is full of friendly and loyal people.

Jackson’s Gap Mayor, Jeff Walker Jackson’s Gap second-term Mayor Jeff Walker envisions growth for his town, but he wants to ensure Jackson’s Gap retains its hometown feel. “That’s why everyone likes it here. I grew up here my whole life, so I want to be sure it still feels like home. And that’s the feeling I get from everyone,” said Walker. Since taking office, new businesses have been brought in along U.S. Highway 280, on the property owned by the town, including Dollar General, which Walker said was courted for two to three years before opening its doors. His hope is to continue working on bringing in more business, putting City Hall out on 280 and constructing a track and playground for locals to enjoy. “The people are what make this community special,” said Walker. There’s also been continued progress with public service departments. He said the town’s police protection is top-notch and the volunteer fire department has decreased its ISO rating down to 5, which helps to lower insurance rates. Walker served on the city council for 12 years and was deputy mayor when the deceased Janice Canham was elected as Jackson’s Gap mayor in 2012. He proceeded to carry out the full-term as mayor and ran unopposed in last year’s election. DRIVEN 2017

Jeff Walker

Horseshoe Bend School Dadeville Elementary Councill Middle Dadeville High

Edward Bell Career Technical Center

Reeltown School

Tallapoosa County

Board of Education

J o s e p h C. W i n d l e Superintendent of Education

Board Members

Matilda haMilton Martin Johnson Michael carter District 1

District 2

District 3

Karen White District 4

randy anderson District 5

679 East Columbus Street, Dadeville , AL 36853 Telephone: 256-825-0746â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 256-825-8244 14

DRIVEN 2017

➡ Lifestyle ➡ Recreation ➡ Healthcare

THE 16

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The Good Life at Lake Martin includes fun in the sun

GOOD LIFE DRIVEN 2017

The Howells

STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

John & Lacey Howell

lexander City native Lacey Howell never And this spring, John left Robinson Iron to launch his own planned to be a driving force in her homesmall business, Madwind Craftsman & Co., which focuses on town. She even admitted that when she left custom functional art and sculpture. town for college at 18 years of age, she “Alex City has opportunity everywhere; there are needs thought she would never return. Yet, after everywhere just waiting to be filled! This city’s economy is marrying John, her childhood about to explode, and if you pair that with a sweetheart, living in Birmingham and traveling paradise in Lake Martin, you have “Alex City gives sportsman’s all over the U.S. for her sales job, she was glad quite possibly the best place on Earth to live,” both of us the to come home. John said. “With all the traveling to different cities, “I realized how easy it is to impact a small opportunity to be I realized how much I love small towns and community by being open about my thoughts ourselves, discover and opinions. I was never scared to take a posiLake Martin. You can breathe here,” Lacey explained. new opportunities, tion on a topic,” Lacey said. John and Lacey Howell grew up in “The town is overflowing with talented, and help grow Alexander City. They were in the same kinmotivated and excited people who work hard dergarten class and call themselves lifelong every day. Alex City gives both of us the something we friends. After several years in Birmingham, opportunity to be ourselves, discover new believe in.” John – an engineer – took a project manager opportunities and help grow something we ~ John Howell position with Robinson Iron, and the couple believe in,” John added. came home and found themselves in a position The Howells stay involved and have priorito shape the city’s future. tized what they believe the city should improve “If you look at the group who started Lake Martin Young and what the city needs. Lacey said she thinks the public Professionals, we chose to be a united front committed to mak- school system should be the number one priority. As graduing Alex City a cool place for young people to want to return,” ates of Benjamin Russell High School, they both are proud of she said. Alexander City Schools, and Lacey said she believes residents Since their return, the Howells have made personal investneed to understand the importance of funding the Education ments in Alexander City in both work and play. They live in Foundation to keep the town competitive. a cabin on the lake, and they both work locally. Lacey spent “I want to see the forward momentum continue,” John said. several years in sales until she found her niche as a real estate “We need more new families, more retail, more industry. And agent for Re/Max. as many sandwich places as possible.” 18

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Eric & Misty Brown

STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTO BY MITCH SNEED

is love for Alexander City and passion to preserve its small town qualities for future generations drove local businessman Eric Brown to run for office in 2016. As a parent, a member of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and the holder of the District 4 seat on the Alexander City City Council, Eric is excited about the future of the area. “I want to make a difference. We are a great little town trying to find its identity again. We have a lot of work to do, but we also have a lot of talented people here, people who are new and people who grew up here, who are perfectly capable of making it happen,” Eric explained. Misty has lived in Alexander City her whole life, and Eric moved to town when he was 12 years old. He and Misty were high school sweethearts who married in 2003 and added two children a few years later: daughter Linley, who just celebrated her 9th birthday, and son Hagan, who is 6. Eric said he is driven to make Alexander City the kind of place that his children could call home throughout their lives. The Browns are proud to raise their children in Alexander City. They love the safety and comfort of this small town, and they said Southern hospitality is real in Alexander City. “Just like the old TV show Cheers, I want to live where everybody knows my name. I really enjoy running into people I know. Being able to walk down the street and not have a worry in the world is a great thing,” Eric said. Eric and his friend Brian Fuller worked in landscaping for Ricky Pope as teenagers, and Eric credits Pope with helping him develop a strong work ethic. He said he will always be grateful to Pope for making him work hard and for not accepting the work until it was done right. Now, Eric and Fuller are co-owners of Hilltop Landscaping. “In the same way I learned to work hard in my job, the people I know in this town believe that good enough is never good enough. They never want to be content on where we are but want to keep moving us forward,” Eric said. He credits Alexander City Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Ed Collari and Vice-President of

Eric & Misty Brown

Business Development Jacob Meacham for keeping things moving in the right direction and said he believes the Lake Martin Innovation Center for business incubation will allow the city to grow a great mix of industries and businesses. “We don’t want to lose the lake feel, and we want to have more than enough work for anyone who moves here. And, because of my job, I want the town to look good,” Eric said. Among the pluses for Alexander City as a great place to live, Eric included the fellowship of local churches, the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex and a local movie theater that does a great job bringing the new releases to town, as well as more than 125 miles of hiking trails in Russell Forest and at Wind Creek State Park and on CRATA trails on Alabama Power Company property. “There are so many great things here that I think I sometimes take them for granted – the people for one,” he said. “We want our kids to be nice and treat others the way they want to be treated. Our kids can learn that from the people right here in Alexander City. “Technology is a great thing but it has allowed us to rush around in our own little hamster balls. We need to get back to community in our town.” He can’t wait to see where the city will go from here.

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On the Trail of Jimmy Lanier

STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

clectic native Jimmy K. Lanier retired at age 60 from a project management position with the federal government and fell into a new career building and managing hiking trails on the banks of Lake Martin. Though he’s now 78, Lanier is a force to be reckoned with. It all started at a reunion with college classmates, Lanier said. “I struck up a conversation with an old classmate, and we started talking about hiking. I had started hiking the Appalachian Trail, and I invited him to come over and hike with me; 22

then, he invited me to climb with him in Colorado,” Lanier explained. “He had worked on the trail we hiked in Colorado, and when he visited here, I took him to Overlook Park there above the dam. He said that area would make a great trail, and that’s all it took. I contacted Alabama Power Company, and the rest is history.” Except that history is still in the making. Alabama Power Company (APC) owns the Overlook Park property, and Lanier, along with a few local friends he convinced to join him, petitioned APC for permission to build a trail system DRIVEN 2017

there. A series of loops beginning and ending at the Overlook Park area treats hikers to more than 7 miles of scenic and diverse moderate trails that skirt the shoreline of Lake Martin. The trail winds through long-leaf pine stands on high rocky mountain ridges, under canopies of mountain laurel and through lush hardwood forests where deer, turkey and numerous other wildlife flourish. The Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association (CRATA) was incorporated as an all-volunteer nonprofit 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization in 2004, dedicated to providing footpath-only trails for public use.

The Little Smith Mountain Trail is one of many designed by CRATA’s Jimmy K. Lanier

Jimmy K. Lanier

In the 18 years since his retirement, the Eclectic native also helped to build a 4.2 mile loop on The Deadening Peninsula – a strenuous, challenging hike that rewards adventurers with spectacular vistas of Chimney Rock, unique rock formations and beautiful thickets of rhododendron. Along with CRATA board members and volunteers, Lanier also was instrumental in the cleanup effort at Smith Mountain, the restoration of the decommissioned fire lookout tower on top of the mountain and the development of 5 miles of trails on 10 acres of mountainside, including the Island Hop Trail that can only be traversed every sixth year when the waters of Lake Martin recede more than the regularly prescribed 7 feet

in winter. Always looking out for the next great trail opportunity, three years ago, Lanier proposed to the CRATA board of directors a new project in Elmore County. With the cooperation of Forever Wild, APC, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, county officials and private landowners, property was obtained for the eventual addition of more than 30 miles of trails in the Yates Lake area. And he drives crews of volunteers in the making of the trail there, including the John B. Scott Trail, a 5-mile walk along the bed of an abandoned railroad that once serviced the construction of Martin Dam. Lanier welcomes anyone who wants DRIVEN 2017

to work and hike with him, but be prepared for a workout. The CRATA founder and trailblazer can hike circles around younger adventurers, and slowing down is not in his vocabulary. “Never!” he said. He is quick to credit the labors and contributions of others, including his wife Judy, who helps by keeping up with membership rosters and other administrative tasks. The CRATA board now is in the midst of a signage project that will enhance park patrons’ visits to Smith Mountain Park with landmark identification in viewing areas and educational signage about the region’s history, geology, weather patterns, wildlife, endemic species and more. The signage will direct hikers to pedestrian and equine trails at Wind Creek State Park near Alexander City, as well as more than 100 miles of hiking, equine and mountain biking trails at Russell Forest. The signage project, which is expected to cost more than $150,000 will be partially funded through an Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs grant in the amount of $87, 429, and CRATA will supplement the grant with in-kind contributions and $50,000 in matching funds. To make a contribution to the project, send your gift to Jimmy K. Lanier, CRATA, P.O. Box 240503, Eclectic AL 36024. 23

Shane Harris

Alabama Extension Services Coordinator Shane Harris also has played a strong hand in the area’s recreational development. Harris took a leading role in the routing and mapping of the Harold Banks Canoe Trail, a 25-mile paddle named to honor Dadeville’s celebrated paddler who canoed the entire course of the Tallapoosa River from its headwaters in Georgia to the Gulf of Mexico. Harris contacted Alabama Scenic River Shane Harris Trail Association (ASRT) Director Jim Felder and brought him to the area for a paddling trip to convince him to include the Tallapoosa River in the ASRT’s recreation site maps. The river trail here treats paddlers to glimpses of rare Cahaba lilies, birds and other wildlife and historic Native American sites. The canoe trail is a premier recreational paddle and is expected to increase tourism throughout the area.

But for Harris, the job wasn’t complete until access could be established, so he helped to bring Off the Beaten Path – Alabama, a canoe and kayak rental and shuttle service, to the river last spring, and he continues to assist in the development and promotion of outdoor tourism that will benefit the quality of life for local residents and contribute to the economic vitality of the area. He has led the effort to teach paddling skills to youth through the RiverKids program and promotes local 4-H activities with energy and enthusiasm. “You have to be able to provide programs with a wide range of interests,” said Harris, who this year is raising funds to build a short archery range at Wind Creek State Park. The range will initially benefit local 4-H members but eventually could grow to include an adult range and offer opportunities for tournaments.

Sawyer Davis

A driving force on the Lake Martin watersports scene, Sawyer Davis grew up behind a boat, experimenting with tricks, techniques and the latest equipment on the market. His passion for wakeboarding and wakesurfing during the sport’s early development put him – and Lake Martin – in a position to help direct its future. When he isn’t selling real estate with Lake Martin Realty, he might be testing a prototype for a new Victoria skimboard, driving the boat for an up and coming national wakeboard champion or videoing a workout series to help wakesurfers get in shape for the next season on the water. “When I started doing this, I was riding a huge board on a tiny wake, and now I’m on a very small board riding a big wake,” he said. “I’ve been fortunate enough to work with innovators in the whole industry, from boat manufacturers in the evolution of the wake to standing next to the guy in the factory 24

who is actually making the board, talking about how to make it so it will do what I want it to do. “When the sport started, we made due with what we could find, and today, the choices are endless. “I love showing people what a new boat will do and surfing behind a brand new product. Nothing makes my day more than getting a phone call from the oldest skimboard manufacturer in the world who is calling to tell me they’re sending me a new board to test.” Davis said he’s loved being part of the change and progression of the sport he chose in his childhood here, and he loves to share that passion with other wake enthusiasts and seeing how fellow wake enthusiasts change the sport, as well. “Where are we going to take it? In a few years, it will be dramatically different than it is today. Anything is possible, and to be a part of that, and to share it, that’s a really cool thing.” DRIVEN 2017

Sawyer Davis

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David Sturdivant Can’t imagine living anywhere else

STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

or someone who doesn’t take himself too seriously, doesn’t meet the CPA stigma.” David Sturdivant is serious about the future of “We all wear a lot of different hats in this company. We Alexander City and the lake community. The Chief deal with a lot of different businesses, and it’s been a learning Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer at experience. What makes a difference is hiring well. We find Russell Lands On Lake Martin, Sturdivant has vol- people who are passionate about their careers and their roles unteered his time and energy with the executive boards of the in the company and let them lead,” Sturdivant said. Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and the Lake Martin Starting at the top, he noted, the company culture is to be Area Economic Development Alliance. He is a past president active in the community. of the Alexander City School Board and the Lake Martin “Ben Russell’s vision and his passion for the land instill Area United Way, and he is a member of the Rotary Club of inspiration, and Tom Lamberth is a great leader, a great menAlexander City. tor,” he said. “At its core, Russell Lands is a real estate develHe has served as chair of the financial committee at First oper but not like most developers. Ben has focused on growth United Methodist Church in Alexander City and plays the in a sustained, controlled way. drums in the church praise band. He also “Russell Lands has been around for a plays drums with The Bank Walkers, a long time but really started growing when “It’s a real tribute popular local band that features classic rock the community was in transition. With the to the area that peo- downsizing of Russell Corporation, Ben and and traditional and outlaw country music. “It’s just all about being part of this ple didn’t leave dur- Tom knew they needed a positive outlook community. It’s a special place,” said to maintain and grow the area, and the lake ing the downsizing. became more of a focal point communitySturdivant. Originally from Birmingham, Sturdivant wide, as people here recognized the need to They stayed married a girl with local connections, and invest in the lake and surrounding area. and worked 25 years ago, he and Laurie moved here “I am proud of this company. When when he took a job as corporate controller the recession hit, there were some projects to bring success with Russell Lands. we had started – like Russell Crossroads, to the area.” “I fell in love with the area,” he said. Catherine’s Market and SpringHouse – and ~ David Sturdivant “The people were very accepting, and I we decided to see those projects through can’t imagine living anywhere else now.” because they were a huge factor for the Sturdivant was named a vice president community and created jobs.” at Russell Lands in 2001 and CFO in 2003. In 2014, he As the economy has recovered, Sturdivant said, Russell was named COO, as well. The passion that has helped him Lands’ investment in diversified businesses has turned out to advance his career has also helped him to serve his commube a great move. nity, he said. “These other businesses give people more to do when they “I try to be the same person regardless of the situation and come to the lake. More people are coming, and they’re staytreat everyone with respect,” he said. “I try to maintain a baling longer, and that’s good for our whole community. They’re ance between my personal life and work life, and I do see not just patronizing Russell Lands’ facilities; they are also similarities between the two.” visiting, shopping and spending around the whole area,” he Sturdivant said he was blessed with parents who instilled explained. in him a good work ethic and taught him to try to give his During the summer season, Russell Lands employs as best to every situation. So when he realized nine years ago many as 700 people across its restaurants, shops, marinas, that the local school board might benefit from his skills and home improvement stores, neighborhoods and country club, experience as a certified public accountant, he served his first and the company supports thousands of peripheral jobs in five-year term. And he accepted the call and reapplied to construction, landscaping, home maintenance and other serserve a second term, even though his children – Bailey, Sam vices needed by homeowners. and Scott – are all in college now. “It’s a real tribute to the area that people didn’t leave dur“A lot of people are good at accounting,” said Russell ing the downsizing. They stayed and worked to bring success Lands Vice President Roger Holliday, “but David has the to the area, and I’m honored that I could be a part of that and ability to address a problem without making people mad. He part of the future.” 28

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Events All Year Long STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

rom January to December, a full roster of entertainment and fun fills the local calendar. There’s no need to drive very far for a great time with family and friends. The Lake Martin Young Professionals kick the year off with a daylong party at Kowaliga Restaurant to honor swimmers in a Polar Plunge that raises funds for Lake Martin Resource Association’s hazard buoy program. Live music, food prepared by Russell Lands’ outstanding chefs, a selfie station and, of course, the plunge into the frigid waters of Lake Martin in winter make this a ‘don’t miss’ occasion no matter the temperature. In February, The Stables at Russell Crossroads joins a full roster of sponsors to host the 5K and 10K Russell Forest Run to benefit the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. Prizes are awarded during the postrace party that features the famous grits bar,

beverages and live music by local band favorite, The Bank Walkers. Alex City Arts, Inc., offers an annual season of musical and theatrical entertainment for the whole community by sponsoring travel productions in local venues. Professional productions have featured Virginia-Samford presentations, the Auburn University Singers, The Vienna Boys Choir and countless others. In May, summer is in full swing at Lake Martin, starting with Derby Day at The Stables, an annual fundraiser for Children’s Harbor, which offers a lakeside handicapped-accessible camp facility to seriously ill children and their families. The annual Kiwanis Clay Shoot at Five Star Plantation supports programs for local children and treats shooting teams to a first-class shooting event at one of the country’s finest private clubs. Also in May, Dixie Sailing Club hosts its

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annual silent auction and drawdown event to fund the club’s nonprofit youth sailing program, which teaches kids the life-long skill of sailing. StillWaters Yacht Club hosts the annual Blessing of the Fleet, and the Paddle for a Purpose paddleboard race launches from Children’s Harbor. At Art on the Lake over Memorial Day weekend, artists from around the Southeast showcase their fine crafts, and the Town Green at Russell Crossroads officially opens the summer season with RXR Fest, including live music on the Town Green stage, lawn games, food and fun all weekend long, while the Community Garden Club rises early for the first of its summer holiday pancake breakfasts. On the east side of the lake, Lakeside Mercantile hosts its annual summer starter, the Pop Up Shops and Tent Event. And don’t miss the Hatchet Creek Festival, a two-day float trip on the beautiful Hatchet Creek in Coosa County. All through the summer, weekends start with Fridays on the Green at Russell Crossroads, where friends gather with picnics and lawn chairs to hear free weekly concerts from midMay through September. June opens with the annual Lil’ Calypso art show at Chuck’s Marina on the southeast shore 34

of Lake Martin. More than 3,000 people attend this highly anticipated art show that raises money for the Union Volunteer Fire Department. Mark your calendars on the second weekend of June for Jazz Fest, a two-day landmark music festival featuring six stellar performances at Alexander City’s Strand Park and the Lake Martin Amphitheater. This free concert draws a crowd of thousands and has featured such popular bands as St. Paul and the Broken Bones and Lowrider Band. The MainStreet Farmer’s Market opens at Broad Street Plaza, where patrons can browse farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and honey. And Fourth of July just doesn’t get better than Independence Day at Lake Martin. Russell Crossroads hosts a juried art show on the Town Green, and Russell Marine leads a patriotic crowd in the annual boat parade, where boats and boaters of all sizes, shapes and decorations parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s DRIVEN 2017

Harbor as they vie for the top honors for flying the largest flag, the tallest flag, the most patriotic decorations and the most creative display. The weekend festivities end with a concert on the grassy hillside at Lake Martin Amphitheater, which overlooks the lake. One of the South’s most spectacular fireworks displays closes the event. And while poker walks are popular in Alexander City’s Arts and Entertainment District year round, their Lake Martin counterpart takes the fun up a notch. Participants travel by boat to five marinas to collect the best hand and win prizes for the best costumes. The Lake Martin Young Professionals invite everyone out to Strand Park on the first Thursday of every month from April to September for Strand Sessions, a free hometown concert series in downtown Alexander City. Dadeville’s Chamber of Commerce teams up with local businesses to host Lake Fest, a day of food and fun at the D.A.R.E. Park beach. And then, there’s Sun Festival, an eight-day celebration of summer hosted by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce in July. Sun Festival features more than 60 fun-filled events, including the Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt in which participants must solve a daily riddle to find the hidden medallion and win $200. There’s a dog parade and a glow-in-the-dark fun run, dances in the park and a heated battle of the bands, along with a big-time show and fireworks display at the end of the week. And there’s more: Nature presentations and guided hikes through Russell Forest, commemorative activities at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park and the crowning of Miss Lake Martin; the Armed Forces

Day Motorcycle Ride for Veterans and the Union VFD Spring Festival; the Hackneyville Shrimp Boil, wine tastings at Catherine’s and Emporium Wine; and the Labor Day Concert at Lake Martin Amphitheater, When summer is over, it’s time for Chairish Alexander City, an art raffle for MainStreet that features the annual Rally in the Alley to view the works and purchase tickets. Standard Deluxe in Waverly hosts the annual Fall Boogie on the lawn, and Russell Crossroads ushers in autumn with the Fall Family Festival of pumpkin decorating, wagon rides and more. The Charles E. Bailey Sportplex hosts OktoberFest with games, music, activities, food and arts and crafts vendors. Lake Martin Area United Way is a beneficiary of the Annual Denim & Diamonds Charity Ball and Silent Auction, where patrons dress up or down for an evening of dinner and dancing at the Lake Martin Event Center. December’s cooler temperatures bring with them the Christmas parades, holiday open houses downtown, Christmas concerts and the Christmas in the Park celebration at the Sportplex, where kids get the once-a-year opportunity to ice skate. Come join the fun all year long!

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Julie Hudson With the high incidence of obesity has influenced others strengthens her pasand chronic disease in our country, Julie sion to be an inspirational role model. The Hudson, Clinical Dietitian at Lake Martin notion that people are watching and mimCommunity Hospital (LMCH), is motiicking behavior is the greatest incentive to vated to combat the issue locally in any live a healthy lifestyle, she said. way possible. Her passion for spreading “I love when people come to me and the word about living healthy is evident in ask for help or come to me and say my her numerous endeavors to do so. article inspired them or my yoga class “I feel like if I can make an impact made them feel stronger,” said Hudson. on a small level and help people to lead Working with students and being healthier lives, I’ve made a difference,” involved in the community is an important said Hudson, who has been a part of the factor for Hudson. She serves on the Board Tallapoosa County community for nine of Trustees at First United Methodist years. Church and for eight years co-chaired Having worked at LMCH for six years leadership for five soccer teams, from after moving here from Florida, where middle school to high school. From coorshe taught a nutrition class at a commudinating the concession stand and acting nity college, Hudson also teaches yoga as liaison between parents and coaches, to twice a week at the Wellness Center Lake encouraging student athletes in hydration Martin, writes a healthy-eating column for and healthy eating habits, her enthusiam is Julie Hudson Lake magazine each month, educates and genuine. guides students and has altered the hospiHudson has been health conscious from tal’s cafeteria menu to include healthy options. the time she was a gymnast in high school to her first nutri“Seeing patients in the hospital on a daily basis reminds tion class in college, which solidified her choice of pursume of how debilitating an unhealthy lifestyle can be. It ing this field professionally. motivates me as a professional to encourage and challenge “I feel like I have a good balance of outreach. I know I people to change their habits,” said Hudson. can’t make a huge impact, but I’m driven by people and Her biggest motivator is positive feedback. Knowing she their expectations of what I’m doing,” said Hudson.

Amy Meacham

When Amy Meacham returned to school for a nursing degree after graduating Auburn University in math and science, she couldn’t know her decision would change the lives of local workers. “I just didn’t know what to do with my life when I finished college, so I went to nursing school,” said Meacham, who returned to Auburn and then finished a high level nursing program at UAB. Now a certified registered nurse practitioner at Alexander City’s Pri-Care, Meacham has found her heart in primary and occupational healthcare. “I care for Madix employees at an offsite clinic at Madix in Eclectic, and my colleague cares for the Goodwater location, so they get free medical care at work,” Meacham explained. “These are people who DRIVEN 2017

may or may not have health insurance, and Madix pays for their employees. Some of them have worked there for 20 years and have never left work to go to the doctor. They are committed to their work ethic and need to not miss work. “I see these people work so hard. We’re saving their lives, and they are the utmost thankful. This is where my heart is. Things happen in people’s lives, and they are not the same again. You have to be compassionate. You don’t know what they have been through. This work is very rewarding for me.” Meacham has lived in Alexander City since she was 12 years old. She is married to Scott Meacham, and the couple has an 8-year-old son and a 5-year-old daughter.

Dr. Eric Tyler Driving future small-town drivers

STORY BY BETSY ILER

r. Eric Tyler embraced small-town living in Alexander City 32 years ago, and his passion for families and for his vocation has only grown stronger through the years. The son of a Columbia, Tennessee, farmer, Tyler attended college in Arkansas and received his medical training in pediatrics in Memphis. He met his wife Fran during his medical training in Birmingham, where the couple lived before moving to Alexander City in 1985. “We wanted our daughters to grow up with small-town values,” explained Tyler, who practices at Pediatrics Associates in Alexander City. “This is where God put me, and my purpose here is to care for as many children as I can and to create opportunities for them. Without opportunities, how can you change the cycle? “Good health helps children make the most of opportunities, so we try our best to make quality care available to them. We are open seven

days a week; we want to keep kids out of the ER.” Tyler has a reputation for going the extra mile in providing for his patients, and a recent effort to upgrade patient’s rooms in the Russell Medical pediatric unit is an example. Coordinated by the Russell Medical Foundation, the black tie Storybook Ball raised more than $50,000 to purchase sleep chairs and bedside tables, so parents can comfortably stay in the rooms with their children. The fairytale themed event invited children to an evening of games and fun while parents and grandparents attended a formal dinner and dance. Tyler said he challenges medical residents and professionals to view their practices as more than jobs. “There are three components to healthcare: quality, availability and cost,” he said. “Professional is what we are; vocation is what we do every day. When the profession of medicine is caring for people – especially children – we shouldn’t make that cost-centered.”

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Dr. Eric Tyler with a patient

Horseshoe Bend Honoring history and heritage of the area

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

nown for its rich history, Horseshoe Bend National Military Park (HBNMP) at Daviston is the state’s only military park. Horseshoe Bend honors the lives lost and calls attention to the great changes brought about by the Creek Indian War (1813-1814) and in particular, the Battle of Horseshoe Bend in March 1814. This final battle of the war, fought by General Andrew Jackson’s Tennessee militia, which was aided by the 39th U.S. Infantry Regiment and Cherokee and Lower Creek allies against the Upper Creek Red Stick resistance, resulted in the deaths of more than 850 Creek warriors, an unknown number of women, children and seniors, and 49 U.S. soldiers. This battle marks the largest loss of Native American life in a single battle in U.S. history. The battlefield has become a historical landmark, and the park on the grounds hosts educational programs and reenactment events. “The park is a major asset to the community, serving as a reminder of our history and heritage,” said Kathryn Braund, founder of the Friends of Horseshoe Bend. The Friends, formed in 2010, is designed to support the park’s efforts and also to raise money to fund a variety of educational and 40

commemorative activities. “We need and welcome volunteers. The park came into being due to dedicated efforts of local people, and local people are still essential to the success of the park’s mission,” said Braund. The 2,040-acre park includes a 3-mile one-way tour road and a 2.8-mile nature trail that surround the battlefield. While not a dedicated recreational site, the park welcomes non-disruptive outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, canoeing, bird watching, stargazing and more. Admission to the park and its special events is free, but donations to the park and contributions at the nonprofit bookstore help to maintain the facility and supplement the costs of school outreach programs. The park is driven to develop an appreciation for the local natural and cultural resources and to specifically engage children to learn more. “The park serves as a focus for education and recreation,” said Braund. Children ages 6 to 12 can complete a free 90-minute Junior Ranger Program to learn about Horseshoe Bend Park services and the heritage that complements it. Upon completion of the required activities, the child receives a certificate

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Reenactors fire a smooth bore cannon across the battlefield

An aerial view of the park

and a Junior Ranger Badge. Field trips are available upon request, along with suggested lesson plans for teachers to use the facility as an educational resource. The Friends assist with the cost of transportation and meals for incoming groups and encourage students to become engaged with history. Ranger-led tours are available, along with historical demonstrations led by volunteers, many being members of the Friends in period military clothing and exhibiting the firing of weapons used in the 1800s, such as flintlock muskets and smooth bore cannon. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Friends group is made up of lovers of history in the state. We work toward protecting its cultural significance and enabling others to enjoy it,â&#x20AC;? said T.R. Henderson, president of the Friends. Henderson explained that part of the Friendsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mission is to bring in new visitors but also keep locals interested. In March of every year, the park hosts an anniversary commemoration of the final battle of the Creek Indian War with weekend activities and school group tours. Horseshoe Bend National Miliary Park is located at 11288 Horseshoe Bend Rd., Daviston, Alabama, and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information call the park at 256-234-7111. DRIVEN 2017

Wind Creek

Wind Creek STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

nown as one of the largest state-owned campgrounds in the U.S., Wind Creek State Park comprises 1,445 acres of land and is familiar to locals for its fishing, hiking, boating, camping and public access to Lake Martin. The park opened to the public in 1982 after being closed for a three-year, $5 million renovation, as it used to be a private recreation facility for Russell Brands employees. While the 28.5 miles of nature trails at the park are impressive, it’s the commitment to the community and to extending knowledge of wildlife through a variety of programs and events, that makes the park unique. “We host about 50 events a year to constantly help the public out,” said Officer Will Queen of Wind Creek State Park. Some of the well-known events held here include Sun Festival, which is free and open to the public, and the Water Festival, a hands-on clean water educational program for elementary school-aged children. Other festivals include the annual Fall Festival, which completely fills up the park and campsites and, though free to campers staying at the park, is open to the public at only the day-use admission fee of $5 for ages 12-61 and $2 for children under 12 or seniors over 62. These events are family focused, with an emphasis on activities for children, said Queen. “We like to give children something to do – something fun. But we also want to educate them,” he explained. With a large interpretive staff rooted in varied skills, the park hosts numerous informative programs to get younger crowds excited about nature and what local parks have to offer. Wind Creek partners with local and statewide organizations, such as the Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail and Alabama State Parks Naturalist project, to offer wildlife-based activities. The park also works with local school systems and other organizations to host events and programs. Tallapoosa County 4-H uses the park often for kids’ programs and this year will team up with Wind Creek to construct an archery range. 4-H is raising funds for the targets and organizing a workday for volunteers to help with building efforts. 42

Both organizations are determined to create a wide range of programs available to the public, especially to children. The more variety available, the wider range of people it will appeal to, Queen said. An important initiative for Wind Creek is its involvement in the Leave No Trace program. The idea is to promote outdoor ethics, respect wildlife, culture and vegetation and essentially disrupt nature as little as possible when visiting the facility. The park is constantly searching for help with its “Volunteers in the Parks” program through which volunteers serve for one month at a time and assist the park staff on a daily basis. Wind Creek is open daily from 7 a.m. to dark and is furnished with picnic tables, pavilions and grills for group events. The tables and grills are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the picnic pavilions can be reserved and rented for large groups and events. The Wind Creek Marina at the park rents a variety of boats and recreational equipment. Daily or monthly boat slip rental spots are available, and there is a $5 launch fee for any onetime use boats. The 210-foot fishing pier is open 24 hours for catching crappie, bluegill and striped bass, Lake Martin’s most popular fish species. Live bait and tackle and game and fishing licenses can be purchased at the store marina. There are numerous fishing tournaments held at the park each year, including Wind Creek Bass Trail events and Alabama Bass Trail events. Last year, the park hosted its first Bassmaster tournament. Accommodations at the campground include 586 campsites over 320 acres; 157 of these are waterfront sites; 39 are premium sites and 16 are available for horse camping. The park recently renovated three sites to be handicapped-accessible. Camping cabins are also available for rental. Wind Creek State Park is part of Alabama’s State Parks system and is located at 4325 Alabama Hwy. 128, just south of Alexander City. For more information or a list of upcoming events, visit www.alapark.com/wind-creek-state-park or call 256-329-0845.

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CACC

Central Alabama Community College

STORY BY CATHY HIGGINS & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

ince taking the helm of Central Alabama Community College (CACC) in 2013, Susan Burrow, Ph.D., has had a firm focus on connecting students with career opportunities. “I came here as interim president in February 2013 and functioned in that capacity for about two years,” said Burrow, who then became the permanent president. In that time, she has helped CACC develop a variety of programs to connect students with viable employment opportunities – one of which reaches out to area high school students to give them a jump on post-secondary education. “We’ve been very blessed with a dual-enrollment program,” she said. In addition to connecting high school students with CACC, Burrow is striving to expand the technical-career programs at the school. It’s an integral part of pairing students with potential employers right here in the Alexander City area. “The technical-career programs feed right into employment opportunities at facilities in the area,” she said. “Several outdoor suppliers need basic machinists, and there are advanced manufacturing opportunities, and 70 percent of those manufacturing jobs will need to be filled with skills taught through these programs.” To ensure that CACC offers quality training for these potential employees, efforts have begun to make sure the school’s facilities are aptly prepared. “In the next five years we’re adding a classroom to our machine-tool area,” Burrow said. “We’ve been able to do that with grant programs.” Burrow has also worked to expand CACC’s healthcareindustry options, making the school’s full nursing-program classes available at the Alexander City campus. With that, students can easily transition from the Alexander City campus to Russell Medical or other area healthcare facilities without traveling long distances for classes. “We can produce licensed practicing nurses and registered 46

nurses,” Burrow said. But that’s not the only program that allows area students to attend college in town. “We have a partnership with Faulkner University,” Burrow said. “They are located on campus, so students can earn their bachelor’s degree in Alexander City and never leave home.” Susan Burrow Burrow knows firsthand the importance of quality facilities and programs in an education setting since she taught nursing for 12 years. From there, Burrow moved into administration. Her 30-year career in the Alabama community college system includes serving as division chief of Health Science at Bevill State before taking positions in mid-level sciences and two deanships. These experiences built the foundation for Burrow to serve as president at CACC and gave her insight. When Burrow came to Alexander City, she had no problem focusing that insight on CACC. “CACC is similar to my previous college,” the president said. “They are both multi-campus colleges.” However, Alexander City does stand out. “There’s a spirit of engagement in the community here,” Burrow said. “I’ve really been impressed with the Alexander City community.” Burrow aims to tap into that engagement to fulfill education opportunities through CACC that will best serve its students and the community. “I think the future is bright for the college,” she said.

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Dale Bloodworth STORY BY LONNA UPTON

Dale Bloodworth prides himself on having not “a single ounce of give-up” in his blood. The fine arts department chair and director of the Benjamin Russell High School Pride Band is driven to provide students a role model for strong leadership. In his 19 years at BRHS, Dale Bloodworth Bloodworth has recognized that the teens he works with every year are creative, passionate, unpredictable and independent. “When they are motivated in numbers, teenagers are a dynamic force for progress,” he said. “We have fabulous kids who work very hard and do what it takes to succeed. I love our band.” Under his direction, students learn to work as a team and experience success and failure, but ultimately they learn to

appreciate the helping hands of others, lend their own in service and lead others in the same. Bloodworth said he has seen success and growth in his students every day in his 19 years at BRHS. He is proud of the deep and abiding traditions at the school and in the band. He said one challenge for him is keeping those traditions while allowing other parts of the program to grow and evolve. Fortunately, he said, the school administration recognizes that having a great band benefits the total school program in ways not measurable by any test or quantifiable data. He is grateful for the help he receives from parents, colleagues, student leadership and the community. He knows they understand that the band belongs to them. “The Alexander City community has been generous in its financial support of our fundraising efforts. There is never a problem finding an audience either,” he said. He finds inspiration in the music he loves. “Music gives expression to all that is inexpressible. It can offer emotional escape, hope, distraction or just something to do. It is physical, intellectual and emotional. It can be spiritual and can challenge the heart. Music was all these things to me as a young man, and they are so much more now,” he said.

Molly Cross STORY BY LONNA UPTON

Dadeville’s Molly Cross draws on One of her challenges has been to help the community’s enthusiasm for her others see the benefits of a strong choral commitment to the Benjamin Russell music program, which she said is a group High School Show Choir, as well as the art. Cross believes there are two reasons school’s Treble Chorus and the Gospel the program is becoming successful. First, Choir. For two years, Cross has directed she said, community support has been fine arts programs at the local high school, wonderful. Individuals and groups have as well as the Concert Choirs and the stepped up to encourage the students and Beginning Choirs at both the high school offer assistance with rehearsals, perforand middle school in Alexander City. mances, costumes, programs and anything A 26-year teaching veteran, Cross else they need. Also, the Alexander City attended Huntingdon College and Auburn City Council has invested in the fine arts, University, where she received her bachoffering financial support to the program. elor’s degree in music education. When Cross said the second reason is the she came to Benjamin Russell, she found students. the community support for the program “Their commitment, determination and wonderful. teamwork have been outstanding. The “I believe the enthusiasm our students students who are in choir today are the Molly Cross and community have for the program is foundation of all future successes,” she becoming contagious,” Cross said. explained. The choral music program has seen at least five different Cross is driven to teach choral music because she has a pasdirectors in the last 10 years, Cross said. Since she believes sion for the students, for helping them learn, gain confidence patience, consistency and commitment are needed to help a and succeed. She believes music is an integral part of every life, group grow, strengthen and become successful, she plans to and music education allows students to experience joy, creativprovide consistency by staying committed to the program. ity and self-expression. 48

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Spirit of the Generals The Generals

The HSB Tank

STORY BY CATHY HIGGINS PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

here’s a new face in the bleachers at Horseshoe Bend High School. He’s not too tall, has brown hair and a pleasant – albeit larger than normal – smile, and he wears a hat and suit that could easily be mistaken for an early 19th century military

uniform. That’s Andy Jack, the new mascot of the Horseshoe Bend Generals. “He’s supposed to be a direct descendant of Andrew Jackson,” said Horseshoe Bend Cheer Coach Portia Worthy. Andy made his debut with the Horseshoe Bend cheerleaders at a mid-January basketball game. When he did, it was under a cloak of secrecy. “We didn’t tell anybody,” Worthy said. “It was a complete surprise. “The crowd loved him; the student section loved him. He was a hit.” Since his debut, Andy has become a fixture at the Generals’ home games. “He interacts with the cheerleaders and the crowd,” Worthy said, adding that the new mascot also makes regular visits to the elementary school to entertain the young students. The costume for Andy Jack was donated by Horseshoe Bend cheer parent Benita Willoughby, who last year donated a fog machine used to introduce the football team at home games. “She just called me one night to tell me that she had it,” Worthy said of the donated costume. As football season was in full swing, Worthy opted to wait until basketball season for the gent to make his introductions. “It has enhanced the crowd’s enthusiasm a great deal,” Worthy said. Andy Jack is the latest ingredient in a recipe that cultivates strong school spirit at Horseshoe Bend. “The school spirit this year has been exceptional,” Worthy said. “And that’s important because it lets the coach and team know the home crowd supports them.”

Horseshoe Bend head football coach Jason Franklin agreed, adding that such home-crowd enthusiasm can intimidate a visiting team. “It’s neat to have that kind of atmosphere of a home-field or home-court advantage,” he said. In the fall, that exceptional spirit was credited to the tank and cannon that debuted at the Generals’ first home football game of the year and opened every subsequent game at Generals stadium. “The tank and the cannon, that’s become iconic,” Worthy said. “Now with the mascot coming in, it seems like the school spirit has really been elevated.” Worthy intends to do everything possible to ensure that elevated spirit carries over into the 2017 football season. That means making sure the Andy Jack mascot is manned by the right person. “Senior Kaylin Wilson is our official mascot,” the cheer coach said. “But she’ll be graduating. So we’ll be having tryouts next month, and a couple of people will be chosen.” Once they are and Andy Jack makes his return, his impact just might be that extra something that shifts the season in the Generals’ favor. “It adds excitement to it, and it’s a big deal,” Franklin said.

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Kyle Caldwell So many young people can’t wait to grow up and leave their hometowns to seek their lot in life elsewhere. That’s what makes stories like that of Dadeville Head Baseball Coach and Football Offensive Coordinator Kyle Caldwell so refreshing. Caldwell, a Dadeville High School graduate who starred at quarterback for the University of West Alabama Kyle Caldwell in Livingston, is back at his high school alma mater, where’s he’s driven to impact the young people with whom he interacts every day. Caldwell, who spent a year as a varsity football assistant and head coach of the junior varsity baseball team at Horseshoe Bend, said coming home to Dadeville was a great opportunity. “I love Dadeville,” Caldwell said. “It’s home for me. Sure, when you are young, the idea of leaving and going on to bigger and better things always crosses your mind. But to get a chance to do it and help people who helped you along the way. That’s very rewarding.

“To get a chance to work with these young people and hopefully share some of the experiences that I had and show them that they can have success if they work hard – that’s what it’s all about.” Head football Coach Richard White said he has been pleased to see the way that Caldwell hit the ground running. “He relates so well to these kids,” White said. “He’s the kind that can tell them how to do something, but he can also show them. For some, you have to make it visual, and he does that so well. That’s credibility in the eyes of a student.” Caldwell was a driver from an early age. He graduated DHS in 2010, earning six letters in football under White, four in baseball and two in basketball. He was a two-time all-state selection and a three-time all-area player as a kicker and a quarterback. At West Alabama, Caldwell was the Gulf South Conference (GSC) Freshman of the Year in 2011, the Conference Player of the Year in 2013 and Co-player of the Year in 2014. He was the first-team all-GSC quarterback in his junior and senior seasons. He finished his West Alabama career as the school’s all-time leader in total offense, yards passing and touchdown passes and was listed as a candidate for the 2014 Harlon Hill Trophy as the Division II Football Player of the Year. Caldwell and his wife Anna Marie have bought a house in Dadeville, and he looks forward to being there for a long time. “We love it here,” Caldwell said. “There is no place like it.”

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Ryan & Ashley Gresko

Driven to Unearth Artisitic Potential

Ryan & Ashley Gresko

ith a revitalized marching band and newly active chorus and theatrical program, there’s an infusion of artistic endeavors afoot at Dadeville High School, and to find the party that is largely responsible, search no further than the husband-and-wife team of Ryan and Ashley Gresko. Ryan Gresko heads up the Tigers’ marching band program, and his wife Ashley conducts the school’s chorus classes. Then in the final period of the school day, they combine their efforts. “We both teach theater,” Gresko said. The Greskos literally work closely together in their efforts to cultivate the DHS arts programs, with their classrooms ideally situated. “The band room is right next to the auditorium,” he explained. That juxtaposition also makes it easy for each one to quickly fill in for the other as needed. “If Ryan needs to step out for a minute, I can pop over and teach band for him,” Ashley said. The Greskos first moved to Tallapoosa County in 2006, so Ryan could serve as assistant band director at Benjamin Russell High School. With intentions to settle here, they bought a home. But after a while, they uprooted to continue their own studies in music education. Fortunately, these Pennsylvania natives never sold their Alexander City house. Instead, when the opportunity came three years ago for Gresko to teach band at DHS, returning to their Tallapoosa County home was a no brainer. “It’s like it was meant to be,” Gresko said. Through the Greskos’ combined efforts, DHS has presented stage productions of Annie and The Wizard of Oz. Most recently, the school’s chorus performed as part of the DHS Black History Month program. And the Alabama Shakespeare Festival paid a visit to conduct a theater work-

STORY BY CATHY HIGGINS PHOTO BY CLIFF WILLIAMS

shop for students in the DHS program. That boils down to success for the Greskos, who believe offering classes in the arts at DHS fills a void in both the school and community. “People here are into athletics big time,” Ashley said. “But all the kids are not into athletics.” The arts offer those kids the chance to come into their own, she said. And many have already done so, including 11 students who advanced to the Alabama All-State Chorus after Ashley encouraged them to audition, which meant memorizing music and performing solo in front of an audience. DHS senior Dylan Davis also came into his own through the school’s arts programs. Before being encouraged to join the arts programs, he had pretty much kept to himself. After joining the school’s chorus and theater classes, Davis discovered his untapped talent and underwent a transformation. He auditioned and was accepted in the All-State Choir, and last year, he even filled in when the lead in BRHS theatrical production had to drop out. “He’s really, really talented,” Gresko said. “Who knows what may come from him?” But that’s not the only talent the Greskos cultivate through the DHS arts programs. Each theatrical production is staged with scenery they taught their students to build. “It’s neat to know that we’re teaching our kids skills like how to wield a hammer, which they can use for the rest of their lives,” Gresko said. “They’re realizing that they’re doing things that they could possibly do to make a living.” With the DHS arts programs thriving, the Greskos are looking for ways to drive the program forward. They hope to take students’ experiences to a new level with an arts trip to New York City and the addition of a show choir next year. It’s all part of a continued drive to help develop that untapped artistic potential in kids at the local high school.

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Dadeville Elementary

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI

ollaborative relationships, capitalizing on strengths and embracing the Leader in Me comprise the culture of Dadeville Elementary School, which last year received the premier designation of Lighthouse Team status. To receive this prestigious title, a school undergoes rigorous tasks and forms committees of teachers and students to show mastery at implementation of the Leader in Me program. It took Dadeville Elementary (pre-K to sixth grade), with an enrollment of 660 students, approximately four years to achieve this honor. There are very limited recognitions at this level in the country, let alone the state. “We are giving students the ability to have more tools in their tool belts and identify how to utilize the ones they already have. We are developing the entire child: emotionally, academically and socially,” explained Assistant Principal of Dadeville Elementary Nina Williams. To implement this program, the school embraced a culture that helps identify and build on individuals’ strengths. The foundational components of this program teach students to follow the guidelines of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People to learn essential skills to flourish in life.

This book, written by Stephen Covey, began as a tool for the work place, and after its success, a rendition was written for children as an educational device. The core principals incorporate working together in a positive manner, prioritizing and finding meaningful ways to help self and others. “These foundational habits are embraced by our teachers as well, not just our students. We encourage staff to be supportive in elements where they are strong,” said Williams. Through the Leader in Me program, five of the eight grade levels at the school increased reading proficiency by 4 percent; 2 percent in a mere six months. “Teachers are leading well. Students say they feel like the program has changed them and made a difference,” said Williams. In addition, the kids are learning to be more proactive about school issues. Students also are involved in service projects to raise funds for organizations around the community and partake in a school broadcast program done by the students, for the students and through the students, explained Williams. The broadcast program gives children another resource to expand their skills, increase communication and make education a more interesting experience.

Lyman Ward Military Academy

STORY BY LONNA UPTON

eeping pace with modern education yet maintaining its 119-year tradition of developing Christian values and self-reliance, Lyman Ward Military Academy (LWMA) in Camp Hill is now driving into the future with new technology, new sports and new ideas. One of only 13 all-boys military academies in the United States, the boarding school planted roots in Tallapoosa County in 1898. Growing and reshaping through the years, the academy has most recently added three new sports; new technology throughout the classroom building, including an Apple TV in every classroom, and new video surveillance for security; and a $3.2 million dollar chapel completed in 2014, said President Dr. Roy Berwick. After the original chapel was struck by lightening and burned to the ground, alumni, donations and memorials provided the funds to build the new chapel. “On a personal note, I attended Lyman Ward and can say military school changed my life – for the better. The experience took a 13-year-old boy, who had failed two grades, from a single parent home and made him a man with a work ethic who has more degrees than a thermometer, a retired soldier, a lawyer and a successful educator,” Berwick explained. The 320-acre campus includes a football field, a baseball field, a gym, an indoor pool and a military practice field. 52

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Color Guard at Lyman Ward Military Academy

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THE SPORTPLEX STORYâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;BY CATHY HIGGINS PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & CLIFF WILLIAMS

Wilson was instrumental in developing fields for tournament play

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lexander City Parks and Recreation Director Sonny Wilson makes a difference every year for hundreds of local kids – and countless more from across the country who come here for tournament play. “I love working with kids,” Wilson said. “When you’re in parks and rec, your reward is seeing the first time a child hits a ball; or you finally see it click in their mind, and they understand something about a sport for the first time. “This is my passion.” Wilson spearheads the development and maintenance of sporting programs and facilities for Alexander City’s children from ages 3 to 12. Those programs include baseball, softball, soccer, football, cheerleading, volleyball, swimming, basketball and wrestling. And each sport requires specialized fields or facilities, as well as equipment and the help of maintenance crews, coaches and parents to keep the programs going. The parks and rec department employs 25 full-time staff, 13 of whom are dedicated to the Sportplex. Many more unsung heroes volunteer to share Wilson’s passion for youth sports activities. “Most of our sports have parent-run boards,” Wilson

said. “Each board has 12 to 15 people who have that passion for providing sports for kids.” Volunteer coaches and team moms are also instrumental, he said. “Without all of them, we couldn’t do it.” An Alexander City native, Wilson first got involved with the city’s parks and rec programs through the athletic boards when his daughter played softball in the youth programs. At that time, he was working as a plant manager with Madix, but in the summer of 2011, former Alexander City Mayor Barbara Young offered Wilson the chance to use the sports management degree he had earned at Faulkner University to serve his hometown as the city parks and recreation director. “It’s my dream job,” he said. A large part of that dream job includes focusing on programs that provide athletic opportunities for area youth, which Wilson considers a vital mission in his hometown. “I think now, in today’s society, it’s more important than ever before to find things for kids to do,” he said. “When I was growing up, we would ride our bikes, or if we were given a ball, we could go outside and play with it all day.

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The Sportplex is the heart of the community

“We could entertain ourselves, but today kids don’t do that. They don’t get outside. They sit on the couch and play video games. So it’s up to us as adults to find things for them to do and to make sure they get active.” Wilson also pointed out the character-building opportunities that sports provide. “I think there are a lot of lessons to be learned from being on a team,” he said. Wilson is so passionate about athletic programs for youth in Alexander City that he developed fields Children have a place that bring teams in for tournaments from to learn and play outside the area, and he’s done it at minimal cost to the city. All the athletic-facility projects under Wilson’s watch have been youth – for the championship in a five-day event. completed with in-kind work. Although a final revenue figure wasn’t pinned “Every project we’ve done has been with down, Wilson reported that the city’s hotels the help of different city departments like were completely booked during the event, and water, gas, sewer,” Wilson said, explainarea restaurants and retailers reported a positive ing that this helped keep the costs of these impact. According to Alexander City Chamber of projects down. “They do work for us when Commerce estimates, a single tournament brings their regular work is slow.” revenue upwards of seven figures into the city. He also spearheaded the upgrading of With that project complete, Wilson has turned the softball fields at the sportplex when parhis attention to make sure area youth with physiticipation in both baseball and softball procal or mental special needs also have a place to grams exceeded the number of fields availSonny Wilson play in Alexander City. He is looking into adding a able for use. Wilson’s solution was to revitalmiracle field, a baseball field specially adapted for wheelchairs ize the then-defunct Byers Field for softball. The enhanced and rolling walking aids. Sportplex contains multiple baseball and softball fields that He believes such a field would enable the establishment of a serve approximately 600 youth in the Alexander City area and host several baseball and softball tournaments each year. When miracle league for at least 100 area youth and would grow. That idea is one more way Wilson’s goals are ensuring as the fields were ready, Wilson and his staff made calls to ball organizations and in the first year booked five tournaments that many local youth as possible have opportunities to get involved in sports. have returned every year since then. “Our goal is to find something every kid can be interested Last summer alone, more than 1,000 visitors descended in,” he said. “Until we reach that goal, we’re going to keep tryon Alexander City for the Babe Ruth-Cal Ripken 12U State ing.” Baseball Tournament, which featured 20 teams – a total of 300 56

DRIVEN 2017

Youth Golf STORY BY CATHY HIGGINS & PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS

rive takes on a double meaning for Lakewinds golf pro Jim Gunnells, who has focused much of his 20-year career encouraging kids to play golf. “I like to see the kids when they hit a shot they don’t think they can, and they hit it for the first time,” Gunnells said. “Especially when we get them out there, and they make a long putt or something like that. You can see it on their faces that they’re so happy.” Seeing the enthusiastic progress of young golfers is what motivates Gunnells to work with youth. In the two years that the PGA pro has been at the Alexander City golf course, that personal and professional drive to share golf with kids has played out through youth golf leagues, including a competitive, sanctioned summer program. He’s also developed a more relaxed junior league in which kids ages 12 through 14 acquire skills in a pressure-free setting. He introduced weekly camps last fall, in which more than 20 youth participated for a month of Sunday afternoons. “That was kind of nice,” Gunnells said. “They had uniforms; we picked teams and played golf.” At the end of each session, Gunnells gives away prizes, which are a hit with his young participants. Gunnells’ fall league met with such success that he repeated the concept with a spring league. “If you can get kids started young, you can teach them better technique when they get older. Then when they’re older they’ll have a lot more fun because their technique will be a lot better,” he explained. For Gunnells, the payoff comes in knowing that he has helped his students learn something they can use for the rest of their lives. “I think golf is a great game because you can play from the time you’re 7 until the time you’re 107,” he said. “You can play with your momma and daddy, your grandmother, your kids. You can play with everybody. “You can be competitive, or you don’t have to be competitive. Some people don’t even like to keep score.” Gunnells is glad to play an introductory part in the community’s progressive golf opportunities for kids. When children reach middle and high school levels, they could play on school 58

Kids learn golf skills from Jim Gunnells’ summer program

teams; and then, perhaps make the team at Central Alabama Community College (CACC), where Trojan golfers twice have brought home the national title under the coaching eye of retired golf pro Dave Jennings. But now, Gunnells, who taught golf at Auburn University Youth ages 12-14 participate before taking the pro in a junior golf league position in Alexander City, would like to bring the program full circle by offering an elective golfing class at Lakewinds to all CACC students. “It would be more of a beginner level for somebody who’s never played,” he said. It’s fitting, then, for Gunnells, who has such drive, to teach youth to drive.

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Young Professionals

STORY BY ALETHIA RUSSELL & PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCOTT HARDY

driving force in the civic and social personalthe area’s economic and social future. ity of Tallapoosa County, Lake Martin Young Modeled on the leadership of the local chamber of comProfessionals (LMYP) has brought new energy merce organizations, LMYP operates under the auspices of to the local community by organizing new and a small executive board and a larger board of directors. interesting events and taking an active role in LMYP President John Howell said the organizational local government and business. structure was a major step in achieving the goal of enhancLast year, LMYP introduced a summer concert series, ing the community. dubbed Strand Sessions, to draw visitors to arts and “The reason for it was so that we could get more entertainment district stores and restaurants. On the first involved and have further outreach and have bigger deciThursday of every month from April through Sept., friends sion making for the group, and generally getting everyand family gather at Strand Park for free music events. one’s opinion involved, and it’s worked out pretty well,” The Young Professionals also founded a Polar Plunge to Howell said. “We’ve been able to analyze how we put on raise money for Lake Martin Resource Association, a nonevents and how to reach new people and figure out who the profit stakeholder organization that maintains hazard buoys best beneficiaries of these events are. Kind of in a nutshell, on the lake (see page 65). the way the group is structured, it’s been able to bring in a In addition, LMYP members stepped up during the more diverse group of people and not be exclusive.” recent local government elections and ran for public offices This structure and membership focus brought success or actively supported candidates based on their visions for to the organization’s two major events in the last year, 62 DRIVEN 2017

the LMYP Polar Plunge and the summer lineup of Strand “We’ve already got some great outreach from musicians Sessions. in the area wanting to play. Some sponsors are already This year’s Polar Plunge drew an impressive crowd of coming back wanting to sponsor again. Some of the food nearly 400 people and netted more than $5,000 in proceeds vendors are going to come back, and some of the downthat were donated to Lake Martin Resource Association, town businesses want to tie it into some of their events, so surpassing last year’s contribution of $3,325 as the event it will be not just Strand Sessions but an entire community gained more popularity. event,” Howell said. “We’re going to donate $5,000 for the In driving community outreach forward, LMRA, which is a big deal for the comHowell said his hope is to arrange more “We’ve got some great community munity when you think about how much fellowship opportunities in things that happen the fall and winter months and to work on the lake provides for the area and drives our economy,” said Howell. “Being that other local ventures such as like Jazz Fest, and supporting the event is on the lake, it’s only fitting Jazz Fest and Sun Festival. that it goes toward an organization that they need our support “We’re going to focus on what we’ve helps the lake.” got,” said Howell. “We’ve got some great to keep them going.” things that happen like Jazz Fest, and they Strands Sessions helped fill the itinerary of the busy summer months with a need our support to keep them going. ~ Lacey Howell series of free concerts featuring local tal“Our website has a lot of informaent. The events brought the community tion, and we’re always looking for new together in the downtown area. members and we just want people to be involved. It’s not “Vendors came out, and people would come out and a closed door group or overly formal group. Our meetings their kids could play,” Howell said. “The benefit there was are the same way.” the community and getting people downtown and making For more information on the Lake Martin Young our downtown area more vibrant.” Professionals, contact any LMYP member or email johnHowell said not only will Strand Sessions return bhowell@gmail.com. Anyone interested in participating in this year but also it will be expanded to five months, as upcoming citywide events is encouraged to go to the webopposed to the three summer months in its inaugural year. site at lakemartinyp.com and sign up for the newsletter. DRIVEN 2017

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Guardians of the Lake Lake Martin Resource Association Lake Watch Lake Martin Home Owners and Boat Owners Association

STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

hree diligent nonprofit organizations monitor and protect Alabama’s only Treasured Lake, as well as the home owners, boat owners and visitors that frequent Lake Martin’s 880 miles of

shoreline. Lake Martin Resource Association (LMRA), Lake Martin Homeowners and Boat Owners (HOBO) and Lake Watch Lake Martin are volunteer interests that have a stake in the safety, regulatory and water quality status of the lake. Founded in the early 1970s during a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) relicensing process for the operation of Martin Dam, LMRA closely monitors legislation and case law that might affect recreational interests on the lake. In addition, LMRA volunteers maintain more than 400 hazard buoys on the lake to alert boaters to the presence of submerged outcroppings of rocks, low water passage areas and other hazards that might otherwise be overlooked by boat operators. LMRA also spearheads lake cleanup efforts around Lake Martin in conjunction with Alabama Power Company, Prosperity Again Thru Health (PATH), Russell Lands On Lake Martin, Tallapoosa County Clean Water Partnership and others. With Alabama Power and other sponsors, LMRA coordinates the annual Renew Our Rivers cleanups that have removed more than 9 tons of trash from the lakeshore and roadways leading to the lake. These late autumn events draw hundreds of volunteers who sign up to clean up sections of shoreline or highway frontage. The organization also coordinates the Adopt-a-Treasured

Mile/Island program that is a FERC requirement for the power company’s continued operation of the dam that created Lake Martin nearly 100 years ago. In partnership with PATH, LMRA volunteers work year round to pick up litter across the county through monthly Trash Walks, as well. To learn more about LMRA, visit their website at www.lmra.info. Lake Martin HOBO advocates for laws and regulations favorable to the care and protection of Lake Martin, its shorelines and adjacent areas. HOBO also has been instrumental in the establishment of Neighborhood Watch chapters, in cooperation with the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department, to help protect the homes and property of lake area residents. Visit the Lake Martin HOBO page at www.lakemartin.org. Through the commitment of Lake Watch Lake Martin volunteer water quality monitors, samples of lake water are regularly tested for bacterial outbreaks in more than 20 locations around the lake. Such testing has, on rare occasions, called attention to issues that could have compromised recreational use and water quality safety at the lake. Lake Watch also takes an active role in education by teaching the importance of clean water and ecosystem management to school children by partnering with local teachers and participating in classroom activities. Volunteers work closely with the Alabama Water Watch organization based at Auburn University. More information about Lake Watch Lake Martin is available at www.lakewatch.org.

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Christ-centered Communitiy

STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTO BY AUDRA SPEARS

lexander City churches are known for their drive through Friday. Its goal is to help participants cultivate deeper to keep the community faithful and in fellowrelationships with God, as well as to promote good health. And ship. Many of the congregations focus on misthe St. James Pottery Guild and art guilds are open to comsions outside the United States but also maintain munity participation at no charge. These ministries raise more a presence in the community, lending helping than $22,000 annually for local outreach. hands and hearts to folks from every walk of life. St. James also hosts one of several local Boy Scouts troops. Dr. Matt Haines, pastor at Sixth Street Baptist Church in Two days of the year, once in the spring and once in the fall, Alexander City, said his church memFUMC sponsors a day of community bers are driven to help in the commuservice called GO Day. Members work nity through the influence of the Holy together in teams to fulfill project Spirit. requests, such as building wheelchair “Direct mission involvement fuels ramps, clearing yards of debris, offermore mission involvement,” said ing landscaping service, working on Haines. the school grounds and other projects. “We have made missions and The FUMC youth program reaches involvement a priority for the last out to the community in similar ways, seven years. It’s central to our mission as students assist in community service as a church,” Haines said. projects or work with the elderly. The church has constructed wheelLocal outreach at First Baptist chair ramps for local residents, and Church (FBC) of Alexander City, members provide free hot chocolate to pastored by Dr. Steve King, includes spectators during the Christmas parade. opportunities for adults, youth and Sixth Street has a local chapter of children to participate in local ministhe Faith Riders ministry, which shares tries. the gospel at local car shows and com“Most recently, our church observed munity events. the Sanctity of Human Life on Sunday, Alexander City First United Jan. 15. Our church gathered for Methodist Church (FUMC), pastored prayer time over hundreds of items by Rev. John Verciglio, and St. James they donated to our local Save-A-Life Episcopal Church, pastored by Rev. Center,” Dr. King said. Rob Iler, work together to serve dinner Members regularly visit local nurstwice a week to families in Alexander ing homes and Bill Nichols Veterans First United Methodist Church in Alexander City City. Home to provide companionship and Feast of Sharing (FOS) began eight other services, and sewing groups years ago as a local mission project work together to make dresses, bags, at FUMC. The first few years, the church served meals to blankets and other items for local ministries. between 30 and 40 people on Thursday nights. That numChristmas in August, celebrated for the last 10 years, prober has grown to between 80 and 100 people per week, said vides school supplies to local children at the beginning of the Barbara Denney, who served as FOS coordinator for three school year. In December, members provide Christmas gifts years. for families in need. FBC helps with food and childcare at the “We are all naïve to the needs in our own community. When local Celebrate Recovery ministry, as well. I started volunteering, my eyes were opened,” Denney said. FBC is beginning an Early Learning Center to provide a “We think because we are comfortable in our homes and have Christ-centered care option for young families. plenty to eat that everyone else does too. That is just not the All of the churches listed above, as well as many others in case.” the area, have partnered with the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Denney said teams rotate the set-up, cooking, dinner service Center for many years. Church members provide donations and clean up of simple meals and provide dessert each week. and volunteers. St. James Episcopal Church jumped on board in 2014 to Alexander City church members are a caring and compasoffer a meal on Tuesday nights in the FUMC fellowship hall, sionate group of people on whom members of the community and they welcome volunteers who would like to assist, wheth- depend for local intervention in times of crisis, ongoing neceser they are church members or not. They follow the same time sities for those in need or simply a cup of hot chocolate or an schedule and location of the Methodist Church, said Peggy afternoon of stress-free yoga. To get involved in local missions Clayton, FOS coordinator for St. James. or to receive help, contact any Alexander City church. St. James also offers free Christian yoga classes Monday 66

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Tim Wellborn

Whole Lotta Muscle STORY BY MITCH SNEED & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

nyone in search of a man who is driven to help his community be successful could call off the dogs upon meeting Tim Wellborn. Whether it’s talking Mopar musclecars or the nuances of the cabinet industry, Wellborn is known as one of the nation’s leading authorities in both worlds. The Wellborn Musclecar Museum houses some of the finest examples of American musclecars, and his prowess in collecting and restoring these pieces of hot rod history have made him hot commodity as an expert commentator and speaker on the subject. “It’s fun to be on television and exciting doing things like the Mecum Auctions and all that goes with selling cars there,” Wellborn said. “But for me it’s about preserving the cars. There’s not a one of these cars that isn’t running and ready to drive, and we do drive them. What’s the fun of owning a car if you don’t drive it?” The museum has built a reputation among car lovers, but the goal is to help bring people to the area, Wellborn said. “It doesn’t take a genius to know that the museum would draw more people in any larger metropolitan city,” Wellborn said. “But that’s not what this is about to me and my wife Pam. This is home. This was my father’s home, and we want this to be a special place that Alexander City can be proud of. “Some people who live here have never been and don’t realize the history inside, but we are proud of it. It’s nice to know that car people know where Alexander City is because the museum is here.” His commitment to the city and the people who live here doesn’t stop with cars. Wellborn, who served as the president and CEO of Alexander City-based Wellborn Forest Products from 1996 to 2008 returned to the position late last year, noting that it was the people who have made a career with the company that led him to agree to assume the helm. “The kitchen industry is strong, and homes are being built.

I hope to help reposition the company in the marketplace through the vision that my family had when we started all this,” Wellborn said. “I’m happy to be back, but mainly it’s our employees that led me back. That’s the part that Pam and I missed most – it was working with the people that we have there. “They are what has made the company special, and we want to make sure that we continue to lean on them and build on that foundation started by my dad, my brother and our family.” Wellborn’s father, Doug Wellborn and his brother, Paul Wellborn, founded Wellborn Cabinet Co. in 1963. Tim served as vice president of sales for Wellborn Cabinet Co. from 19801987, at which point Wellborn Forest Products was established in Alexander City. The company produced low-end price-point cabinetry for the multi-unit housing industry. As the company grew, Tim and his father Doug moved towards higher-end semi-custom cabinetry, which is still being produced today. Tim served as vice president of sales at Wellborn Forest Products from 1987 to 1996 and has continuously contributed time and expertise, not only leading Wellborn Forest Products but also serving on the board of directors of the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturing Association for more than seven years. Pam Wellborn rejoined the company as well. Having served as director of design and color until 2008, she will again dedicate her talents to the design end of the product line. “It was a big decision for us, but you know how it is, no one understands a business like someone who was there from the beginning,” Wellborn said. “That’s why we decided to do this. We figured one time that we have 840 years of cabinet experience in that plant. With people like that, you lean on them and build toward the future. We are seeing some good things. We still have a ways to go, but I like what I’m seeing. There’s a new energy and attitude, and that’s important to us. They are family.”

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DRIVEN 2017

ACT II

Advancing the Arts

STORYâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;BY LONNA UPTON & BETSY ILER PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & CLIFF WILLIAMS

assion for the arts runs deep in the Lake Martin area. Art, theatre and music find expression in galleries and schools and through community theatre for all ages, cultures and income levels. Gallery 128 owner Henry Foy hosts several exhibits and receptions for local artists throughout the year, including the Lake Martin Living magazine Annual Art and Photography Contest, at the gallery and event space under the Emporium Wine awning at 128 Calhoun St., Alexander City. Bonnie Luckie recently celebrated the grand opening of her new shop at Broad Street Plaza. Luck of the Draw, an art and frame shop, whcih occupies a renovated historic building on the corner of Broad and Green streets, where the character of the gallery space adds to its ambiance. Luckie also does custom frame work at the shop, and the back of the gallery includes a studio where she teaches classes in pastels, oil, acrylics, watercolor, graphite and charcoal. Alabama Art Colony, now in its 25th year at Lake Martin, invites artists to work under renowned instructors at a five-day immersion event at the idyllic Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor setting. For information, visit www.alabamaartcolony.org. In addition, the Tallapoosa School of Art in Dadeville hosts plein air workshops with a full-service approach that includes boat transportation for lodging artists. For information, email Dorothy Littleton at dorothylittleton@gmail.com. The Artists Association of Central Alabama meets at the Senior Activity Center in the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex once a month. For information, contact Dottie Holdren at dottiek66@hotmail.com. And while budget cuts have removed fine arts curriculum from many schools across the country, Alexander City Schools offer drama classes and stage productions for competition every

Henry Foy

year, with a record of superior ratings. Shannon Culver, theatre teacher for Alexander City Middle School (ACMS) and Benjamin Russell High School (BRHS) has a large influence on the arts within schools. She helped implement a drama program when she taught at Radney Elementary before moving on to her current position. Each summer, the Dark Family Partners and Radney Elementary School host a weeklong arts event for students. The Kitty Dark Arts Camp features lessons in drama, music, mixedmedia art, creative movement and more. For information, contact Jamie Dark at jamiewdark@yahoo.com. And now, adults can get into the theatrical action as well. Alexander City Theatre II (ACT II), a nonprofit, all-volunteer community theatre company, soon will unveil renovation plans for a downtown building leased from the city. ACT II produces plays at suitable locations in the community but expects to stage full seasons of plays when renovations are complete. For information, email actheatreii@gmail.com. The ACT II umbrella also includes a new community chorus, which offers opportunities for sharing music among adults who love to sing. For information about the community chorus, email Bobby Boone at bobbyboone88@gmail.com. 69 DRIVEN 2017

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Business & Government ➡ Downtown ➡ Leadership ➡ Family Matters DRIVEN 2017

Downtown Streetscape

Chairish Alexander City

STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS AND MITCH SNEED

s the cover of this special edition magazine suggests, the Lake Martin area is driving into a future of prosperity and success. From recreational and business development to welcoming new and growing industries and the civic leadership to support them; to education and the arts; retirement living in style; and the services needed by residents, employers and visitors alike, Tallapoosa County has fostered an atmosphere that embraces innovation and neighborliness and values fresh ideas as dearly as its history. In Alexander City and the surrounding communities, young families are choosing the better quality of life that small towns have to offer, and young entrepreneurs continue to open boutiques and sandwich shops downtown beside budding entertainment venues, vintage vibe furniture outlets and unique galleries. Businesses and industries that banked on growth when they chose to locate here are seeing their plans come to fruition, and optimism has replaced the fear of the unknown that fell upon the area when the largest employer moved its operations and headquarters out of town nearly 20 years ago. BloombergView last year recognized Alexander City as the city that didn’t give up and die but instead, has grown and prospered. “Downtown is an attractive, pedestrian-friendly place with unique shops, and we continue to adapt,” observed MainStreet Alexander City Director Richard Wagoner. “People are coming back because there are exciting things to come home to.” Among the historic town’s recent successes is the Missing Piece competition that in its inaugural year added three vibrant new businesses to the downtown scene. With the second edition of Missing Piece now under way, Wagoner said he expects to see a repeat of the endeavor’s initial achievements. “We’ve got three great candidates, and I believe all of them will move forward with their plans to open businesses, no matter which one wins,” Wagoner said. 72

The Missing Piece competition offers a startup package to a new business that commits to opening in downtown Alexander City. The incentive package is tailored to the winning contender and could include assistance with build-out, reduced rent, first-year chamber membership and advertising, all supported by existing businesses in the area. In addition to The Coffee Corner, which won the 2015 contest, entrants Alabama Street Maker’s Market and Alexander City Theatre II also set up shops downtown. In Dadeville, the industrial park continues to draw new projects while existing companies enjoy steady growth; a new project at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse will enhance the county seat; and tourism services continue to prosper at the intersection of highways 49 and 34, which connects visitors to the lake and other recreational areas. New leaders in New Site look for ways to improve healthcare for residents, lending their energy and fresh perspective to the community they call home, and in Jackson’s Gap, Mayor Jeff Walker works to increase the town’s presence on U.S. Highway 280 to grow the business environment and create jobs. Across the county, recreational growth takes advantage of the state’s budding popularity as a tourist destination. From the state’s only national park at Horseshoe Bend in Daviston, to the restored historic fire tower at Smith Mountain and the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association hiking system and Wind Creek State Park, Russell Forest and Alabama’s only Treasured Lake, the area has developed paddling, climb-

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ing, boating and watersports opportunities that promote economic growth while maintaining environmental balance. Support for this growth continues to come from local residents, who recently voted in favor of Sunday alcohol sales, knowing the provision would attract new restaurants, Downtown After Dark grocery stores and retail shopat Fermenter’s Market ping. Among those businesses is Fermenter’s Market, which opened for business this month on the Strand Park perimeter in Alexander City. A recent streetscape project on Broad Street has improved the aesthetic for four new projects downtown, including Shirley Lucas’ French Quarter Bistro and a second location for Lake Martin Pizza Company that will open there this spring, said Wagoner.

“We’re just about to run out of buildings for new businesses to take over,” he added. “We’re going to make this a place where people come first and decide what they’re going to do after they get here, a place where people say, ‘Let’s go downtown.’ “It’s been said before by others, but I’ll say it again: Watch us!”

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ALEXANDER CITY STATS IN 30 SECONDS

Alexander City’s COST OF LIVING IS 11% LOWER than the national average

15-year new BUSINESS INVESTMENT = $819 MILLION

LAKE MARTIN IS 44,150 ACRES of recreational bliss

51 ACTIVE PHYSICIANS work with Russell Medical in Alexander City

4,085 NEW JOBS have been created in Lake Martin has GREAT SUNSETS Alexander City since 2002, including 18 Russell Medical is a Tier 1 hospital and new companies and 20 expansions offers 26 HEALTHCARE SPECIALTIES 332 DIFFERENT SPECIES OF Alexander City is home to the only joint FRESHWATER FISH live in Alabama venture/jointly owned SATELLITE UAB Benjamin Russell High School Class CANCER CENTER of 2016 received SCHOLARSHIPS Alexander City has nearly TOTALING $5.2 MILLION 20 COMMUNITY SERVICE 28 DOWNTOWN BUILDINGS in ORGANIZATIONS and 30 Alexander City have been restored or NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS historically renovated Alabama has 23 MILLION ACRES OF Central Alabama has more than FORESTED LAND 132,000 MILES OF RIVERS AND 2015 was the BEST YEAR EVER FOR STREAMS LAKE MARTIN HOME SALES Alexander City’s Benjamin Russell High School GRADUATION RATE WAS 86% Alexander City has AN OVERCAPACITY IN WATER AND for 2014-2015 year SEWER FACILITIES Alexander City schools offer FINE ARTS Alexander City’s FREE JAZZ FEST CURRICULUM DRAWS 10,000 PEOPLE USGS has named ALABAMA THE Tallapoosa County has 120 MILES OF MOST BIO-DIVERSE U.S. state HIKING TRAILS 37% OF STUDENTS TAKE ADVANCED PLACEMENT CLASSES at Alexander City’s SKILLED WORKFORCE IS TRAINED and ready Benjamin Russell High School When The Ridge on Lake Martin is LAKE MARTIN AREA UNITED WAY completed the NEIGHBORHOOD’S RAISED $535,000 last year VALUE WILL EXCEED $1 BILLION 74

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A woman on a mission

Buffy Colvin

STORY & PHOTOS BY MITCH SNEED

udrey “Buffy” Colvin at Candidate’s Forum Colvin is no stranger to uphill climbs, but when it comes to making Alexander City the best possible place to live and work, she doesn’t shy away from the task. That’s why those who know her weren’t surprised when the political newcomer came from out of nowhere to defeat an incumbent and a rising challenger for the District 2 seat on the Alexander City City Council. Colvin is a soft shoulder for weary and troubled souls to lean on, and she’s strong enough to carry the load. “I have never been accused of doing things the easy way,” Colvin said. “But sometimes the journey and what you learn along the way, that’s what makes you stronger and more determined to succeed. If I can take my experiences and love for this city and help someone, then I have done what I set out to do.” The 49-year-old Colvin is a graduate of Benjamin Russell High School and Talladega College and has worked at Russell Medical for 26 years, where she now serves as a respiratory therapist. On the night she was elected, she promised to use her love for Alexander City and her tireless work ethic to help make the city better. “I think we have to start right away working as one with the goal of making Alexander City the best it can be,” Colvin said. “Working together, we can all make sure that our city is viable for our children in the future. We have challenges, but I know that there is nothing that we can’t overcome.” Since taking office, Colvin has shown that working together doesn’t mean rubber-stamping issues. Colvin said she was hired by the people to represent them, so her votes are a combination of what she thinks is best and what the people of her district think is right for them and for Alexander City. “I may not always agree with everyone, but nothing I do

is without thought and the desire to do what is right for Alexander City,” Colvin said. “I love Alexander City, was raised here, and I want it to be the best place to live and raise children.” While she is new to politics, Colvin has a long track record in public service. She has worked with Tallapoosa Relay For Life, the Martin Luther King Day Celebration Committee in various leadership roles, volunteered with Cooper Recreation Center and with Students With A Goal. She has mentored and tutored high school students, served as a Friendship Baptist Church Benevolence Ministry member and a youth advisor. One of the first things Colvin did when she took office was hold a community meeting in her district, and she found that people were eager to have someone listen and offer help. “I tell people all the time I may not have all the answers, but I’m the kind of person who isn’t afraid to ask and do the research to find an answer,” Colvin said. “I don’t care if you are in my district or not. If you have a problem and you think I can help, I will do everything I can to help you. “Sometimes I may not be able to help, but you are going to get an honest answer from me. I don’t know any other way.” One of Colvin’s many passions is helping children. As she ran for office, she stressed the importance of looking to Alexander City’s future. Colvin speaks often about the joy of serving and how she hopes to let everyone know that the council is committed to making the city better and having an open door policy. “We want to hear from you,” Colvin said. “We welcome your feedback. That is what we are here to do – serve our residents.”

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Red Ridge United Methodist Church

John of All Trades STORY & PHOTO BY MITCH SNEED

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What do you call a man who is good at noodling for catfish, serving the people as a county commissioner, sniffing out crimes, carpentry, processing deer and winning wild game cooking championships? Around here, we call him John McKelvey. After a career in law enforcement, McKelvey retired and was elected a Tallapoosa County Commissioner. “I have been very blessed to serve in law enforcement, and now the people thought enough of me to elect me to be a commissioner – so I’m enjoying another kind of service in that role too,” McKelvey said. “I feel like I’m still learning every day. But I want to expand what I have been doing and see if there isn’t more we can accomplish for the people of District 3.” McKelvey’s diverse interests are probably a perfect fit for a district that is equally eclectic. District 3 includes Jackson’s Gap, New Site, Goldville, Daviston, Hackneyville and a section of Peckerwood, as well as Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, a 2,040-acre park that preserves the site of the Battle of Horseshoe Bend in 1814. New Providence Baptist Church, which was established in the 1600s and is still operating, is also in McKelvey’s district. His district includes more miles of dirt roads than any other in the county and is also home to Horseshoe Bend School that has an enrollment of 800 in grades K-12. “It’s really all about people,” McKelvey said. “You listen to their concerns and do what you can to help. You don’t want to blow smoke, because they will see right through it. Do what you say you are going to do and be honest. That’s the only way I know how to operate.” Now that he technically retired at age 49, McKelvey said he plans to do more fishing and hunting. Yes, that means more noodling hopefully. “I’m just telling you if you ever do it and get to where you catch fish like that,” McKelvey said, “you won’t ever use a rod and reel again.”

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The man other men wish they were STORY BY MITCH SNEED & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

Barry Holdridge is one of those guys “Oftentimes, you have something that most men wish they were. come in, and people think it can’t be He can step back and take a long look fixed,” Holdridge said. “You take a look, at any situation or problem and figure and it may be in bad shape, but once out a way to make it work, whether it’s you get into it, you see it start to take refurbishing and restoring old boats at shape – there’s an excitement to that. Ambrose Canoe Company or fine tunThen when you are done, and you see ing machinery used to manufacture the reaction that the owners have, that’s compressed wood products at CES very satisfying.” Industries. Holdridge is a man who gets He lends that same spirit to his other things done, is not afraid of hard work vocation. and is what farm folks call “country brilHoldridge serves as general manager liant.” of CES Industries and works alongside At Ambrose Canoe Company, he and owners Todd Smith and Jay Harris. partner Steve Ambrose have turned a They make the thick cardboard spines garage interest into a business that draws that support three-ring binders, thick customers from across the country. paper used in the furniture industry and About two years ago, they transformed laminated paper that becomes drawer a vacant building on the former Russell bottoms and such. Corporation campus into a workshop Holdridge’s common sense and muleBarry Holdridge that does everything from small repairs like stubborn nature pay off when it to total restorations on canoes and boats counts. that mean something to their owners. They have since added a “We believe that if you find good people and treat them like boat storage business that offers service and repair options as family, you can keep them. We have been fortunate to have well. great people along the way,” he said.

Dadeville’s Most Famous STORY & PHOTO BY CLIFF WILLIAMS

If you were to ask someone from Dadeville who the most famous person from the town is, most likely you would hear the name Dick Harrelson. The person they are referencing could be seen Dick Harrelson anywhere in town, especially supporting Dadeville High School through its athletic and academic programs. “I am pretty well known,” Harrelson said. “I can’t go to Auburn shopping with my wife. They ask how I am doing, and she asks who they are … I don’t know. That happens all the time; these people know me, but I don’t know them.” It comes as no surprise to Dadeville Mayor Wayne Smith. “He loves Dadeville,” Smith said. “He loves Dadeville High School. He is involved in most everything in town.” Harrelson served 18 years on the Tallapoosa County Board of Education and was recently elected to serve on the Dadeville City Council. Smith thinks that Harrelson did an excellent job on the

school board and expects no different from him in his position on city council. “He was a school board member for 18 years and was diligent,” Smith said. “He never missed a meeting. He did what was right for students of Tallapoosa County, as well as for the teachers and administrators. His service continues today. At 83 years old, he is as conscious a member on the council as I have ever seen, and that is why he sits besides me.” “I really enjoy politics,” Harrelson said. In addition to politics, Harrelson is passionate about the Dadeville Quarterback Club. “He cooked steaks for the quarterback club,” Smith said. “He was the quarterback club. Back in ’76 or ’77, we only had a handful of members showing up. Then he started cooking steaks. Since then, we have 90 to 100 members that attend because of those steaks.” Harrelson has built his life around serving the community he loves, and he said he would continue to do so for years to come. “It is a challenge to work for the people and the city that I dearly love … I intend to do everything possible to make the city a better place to live,” he said.

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Family Man Blake Beck and his family

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI

lake Beck, Tallapoosa County Administrator, has a knack for numbers and producing a positive outcome, but he really credits the county’s financial turnaround to the great teamwork of the County Commissioner’s office and the efforts of the people that work in his department. Beck’s main job is to provide the best guidance and professional judgment to the leaders in the commission’s office, so they can make the most informed decisions to benefit the county. “Balancing a budget is relatively simple, and money management isn’t hard. It’s getting the people – stakeholders and leaders – to buy in on the ideas that can be challenging,” said Beck. “But when you work with people who want to do the right thing, that makes my job relatively easier.” With a background in accounting from Auburn University Montgomery, Beck has been the county administrator for 10 years and has 23 years experience doing similar work, including CFO for the Lee County Board of Education and working for the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts. Through his vast experience, he’s gained an ability to see the big picture. Often in an organization with a lot of moving parts, individuals can’t see the whole thing, he said, but this is something in which he excels and is a big part of the success he’s had with the Tallapoosa County Commission. When first arriving at the commission’s office, he discovered that the county was facing many financial difficulties. The financial records were in disarray and the exodus of Russell Corporation had caused thousands of jobs to be lost. The plan Beck helped execute to replace those jobs 80

included substantial risk, which could have positioned the county for further financial fallout. “The easiest thing to do would have been to say, ‘We can’t do it. We have too much debt.’ But the community needed jobs, and we could make it happen. The risk is worth the reward,” explained Beck. Instead, Beck’s ability to see all angles of a situation proved useful in successful implementation. Being steadfast in his ideas and confident in his research, these projects developed thousands of jobs over the last 10 years and helped stabilize the local economy. Being a transplant to the area has helped him remain neutral when making financial plans and suggesting solutions. The ability to unify towns that may be sensitive to their own needs has been a benefit to the county as a whole. “There are many subdivisions within the community, and I had to put that aside and convince people just because you live in this community doesn’t mean something in that community isn’t going to benefit you,” said Beck. “You have to figure out a way to get it all done. Rarely are people going to get exactly what they want, but you can give them what you can and provide services to keep them happy and satisfied.” At the end of the day, Beck is most driven to be a positive influence for his family. He has been married nearly 28 years, with four sons and four grandchildren. Leaving the world a better place motivates him to be a role model and teach his family positive values. “You want your family to be able to respect what you’ve done and acknowledge it was done the right way,” said Beck.

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Ed Collari

Alexander City is growing and cultivating new business, largely due to the Lake Martin Innovation Center that Ed Collari, President & CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, helped bring to fruition, along with members of the chamber and other business partners. The center can provide office space, conference and hi-tech media facilities and hosts workshops for new and existing companies and mobile businesspeople who pass through or visit the area. “One of our main goals as a chamber of commerce is to help foster business growth,” said Collari. The 17,000-square-foot center previously housed the operations center for USAmeriBank, which leased the building to the chamber for $100 per year. Collari and the chamber, along with volunteers and contractors, did much of the building renovations work, including floor treatments, trim and painting and pressure washing. The center received funding from a Sabal Trail Pipeline community grant and has been open for two months. “I think we can make a huge impact,” said Collari.

Ed Collari

Sandra Fuller

When Russell Corporation began downsizing more than a decade ago, Sandra Fuller worked in its human resources department (HR), and she watched hundreds of people lose jobs and insurance benefits. It was an easy choice for her to join the nonprofit Lake Martin Area Economic Development Alliance (LMAEDA) to help bring jobs to the community. “I value helping people find jobs, so their families are taken care of. My goal is to create jobs, so we can create more quality of life,” said Fuller, Director of Marketing at LMAEDA. Fuller helps to recruit new companies and maintains the alliance website by gathering vital community information regarding demographics, education and healthcare for companies to access. She also supports existing industry, and she applied her HR experience to establish a roundtable organization for HR managers in various companies. “It’s going to take little steps to build up that area of jobs we lost, but we’re filling them up little by little as we go,” said Fuller. Her efforts have contributed to the success of bringing in six new companies, and Fuller takes pride in ensuring that the skilled needs of those companies will be met. She said the area is a gold mine for new businesses looking for homes.

Mike Smith

Often, Mike Smith is the first person that business and industry leaders meet upon arrival in Tallapoosa County, and he takes personally the impression he makes on them. The former Russell Brands pilot now serves as T.C. Russell Airport Manager, and he advocates for improvements and standards that put Alexander City’s connection to corporate flights above those found elsewhere. “As a pilot for Russell Brands, I saw what airports can do for communities. They provide services that business people need. I know how important it is to provide that for them,” said Smith, who made Alexander City his home when he was in the sixth grade. Smith was driven to put Alexander City on the sky map when he transitioned into the management role at the municipal facility. He recommended construction of a terminal building that could offer conveniences to travelers, including a spacious lobby/waiting area and a conference room that could be scheduled for public use. Since its completion in 2012, the terminal has been an asset to economic development and visitors to the lake. “Customers who come here have said this is not what they expected to find when they come to a city of this size,” Smith said. “I think we are leading the pack. Other airports come here to see what we are doing. We’re able to represent Alexander City as being in a good position to support their needs.” DRIVEN 2017

Mike Smith

DRIVEN 2017

Leadership Lake Martin

Class of 2017 Leadership Lake Martin STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

very year a group of 20-25 community members go through a yearlong leadership training class to gain a broader understanding of the local services, resources, problems and opportunities of the area, and then, they create something that gives back. Leadership Lake Martin, sponsored by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, is open to people of diverse ages and backgrounds who are looking to learn more about their community. The course begins with an orientation in August, followed by a two-day team-building retreat in September. Once a month after that, a full-day program is held with various entities and guest speakers to increase awareness, including education, criminal justice, healthcare, City of Alexander City, County Government/City of Dadeville, economic development and legislation. Emerging leaders gain behind-the-scenes opportunities with the inner workings of the city and its current prominent leaders. “It’s a way to open people’s eyes and get the chance to see what people do,” said Ed Collari, President and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. “Students gain an understanding of people’s challenges and goals for the community.” Each Leadership Lake Martin class is broken into groups of five or six and must take on a project that group members think will benefit the public. Most projects range from $5,000 to $10,000 to come to fruition. The groups are tasked with the challenge of raising their own funds and donations, and they contribute hands-on work to complete the assignment by the following May, which culminates in

Community service project

a graduation. The goal is to collaborate with other movers and shakers in the area and get people off the sidelines, Collari explained. “It’s really a great chance to meet people and the fastest way to get involved, especially if you’re new to the area,” Collari added. There is an alumni group that encourages all members who have been through the training to stay in touch, and they build the curriculum and agenda for the following year’s students. The cost of tuition is $500 and includes meals during classes, a shirt, a portfolio, a plaque and the cost of the lodging and meals at the retreat. Enrollment usually ends by July of each year. For more information, contact the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce at 256-234-3461 or email ed.collari@alexandercitychamber.org.

DRIVEN 2017

Chris Martin

Family first influenced Dadeville Police Lt. Chris Martin to join the Armed Forces. Martin, who graduated from Notasulga in 2001, joined the military prior to 9-11, mostly due to his uncle Charles Bedford’s experiences. “He (Bedford) credited what he’s done to the discipline he learned in the military. I always kind of admired that. I wanted to see what that was about, and I liked it,” said Martin. Although he did not initially plan a life-long law enforcement career, he’s had numerous international deployments and is now a sergeant serving with the Alabama National Guard 214th in Alexander City. “When I first got in, my aspiration was to make corporal. Just to say I did it and get out. But I got in and stuck to it,” said Martin. Martin said the training and instructor certifications he’s earned from military training translate to law enforcement as well and benefit his work at the Dadeville Police Department. Being trained in various areas, including firearms, spike strips and pepper spray, is valuable and provides Martin the resources to coach new officers. “It is real rewarding to train our guys. We don’t have to send them off somewhere else, and I know the training they are getting here is what they need to know,” said Martin. Another benefit to Martin’s military background is the opportunity to further his education. He is now taking classes

while working at the Dadeville Police Department fulltime and serving with the 214th. He’s earned enough credits to finish his associate’s degree and is now working toward his bachelor’s; however, he’s unsure what the future holds. “I am waiting to get my degree and see where things lead,” Martin said. “Maybe I will stay here or move on somewhere – maybe federal. I don’t know. I am kind of at a crossroads.” Family may have gotten Martin on this track, but now it’s taking care of his team that drives him. “Part of being a leader is being understanding and willing to serve. That is what gets me up and keeps me going,” Martin said.

Jerry Sewell The thrill of saving lives is the driving fire department, Sewell said. Homeowners force that keeps Chief Jerry Sewell and in Coosa County also pay a $30 annual fee the firefighters and supporters of Kellyton to help offset the necessary costs of upkeep. Volunteer Fire and Rescue (KVFR) working “Everything we make – all the money hard every day. – gets put back into the community to main“It’s still exciting to me. That tone goes tain our services,” said Sewell. off, and even at 51 years old, I get excited The department recently built a second to get a fire call or rescue call because I fire station on Highway 9 to offer betknow I’ll be helping someone in need,” said ter coverage of the area. They want to do Sewell. everything in their power to ensure the comFounded in 1972, KVFR is made up of munity stays safe, Sewell explained. 100 percent volunteers, and all 16 members The department is debt free, and this have day jobs as well. construction was made possible from the “It’s an outstanding group of guys. They money made by the ambulance service, he work here for no pay – just the joy of helpsaid. ing neighbors,” said Sewell. Sewell has been with the KVFR for About 12 years ago, the department real31 years and used to work for Russell ized there was an urgent need for a local Corporation. When Russell downsized, he ambulance presence. When people in the saw a perfect opportunity to continue doing area needed medical attention, they had what he loves and joined the Alexander City Jerry Sewell to wait on arrival anywhere from 15 to Fire Department 10 years ago. In 2014, his 45 minutes; Sewell and his team knew there had to be a betpeers there nominated him for Firefighter of the Year, an honor ter solution. They started a local ambulance service for more celebrated citywide. immediacy, which typically takes patients to Russell Medical. The fast-paced work helps keep him young, Sewell joked. The ambulance service helps to fund the needs of the volunteer 84

DRIVEN 2017

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DRIVEN 2017

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DRIVEN 2017

Tom & Riley Goree STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

The Goree family

om and Riley Goree, along with their three boys, Russell, Harris and Grayson, are happy to be back into smalltown life, even if that life now seems busier than the city pace they fled last year. “We moved from Mountain Brook last year to be closer to both families. Being from a small town myself, I appreciate the laid back and tight knit feel of a small community. There are so many young couples around our age that have stayed or moved back here. I feel like everyone knows each other, and everyone cares about you,” Riley Goree said. Riley grew up in the small town of Greenville, Alabama. She attended Auburn University for a degree in exercise science; then graduated South University with a degree as a physical therapy assistant. She met Alexander City native Tom Goree, a Cumberland Law School graduate, through friends at the 2005 Lake Martin Jazz Fest. The two married in 2009 at Church in the Pines, which was built by Tom’s great-grandmother. They settled in Birmingham, but as the family grew, so did the hectic pace of life in the city. They made the decision last year to move to Alexander City for the

slower lifestyle of a small town. And while the family now seems busier with activities than when they lived in Birmingham, they are excited to be living and working in Alexander City. They decided to live in town to be close to school, their jobs and the kids’ activities, said Tom, so time on the road is minimal. The boys are happy to have both sets of grandparents in Alexander City, and with Tom’s parents living near Kowaliga, they have plenty of lake access to enjoy. Goree said everyone in the community has made a point of welcoming them and encouraging them to get involved. She works as a physical therapy assistant at Adams Health and Rehab Center in Alexander City, and Tom is opening his own law practice. They also are active with the Lake Martin Young Professionals (LMYP) and are looking forward to helping with fundraisers and other events that will benefit the city. “I feel that there is such a solid base in place with our local and state-elected officials, as well as the LMYP organization,” he said. “I am excited for the opportunity to be a part of this effort.”

DRIVEN 2017

Brian Hendrix STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI

Brian Hendrix

lexander City native Brian Hendrix doesn’t expect to change the world, but he sure is doing everything in his Hendrix and his power to make a difference church youth group locally and inspire others. Though working at Mutual Savings Life Insurance is his full-time job, Hendrix finds ily all over the time to volunteer at his church, Bethel Baptist Church county and South, and make sure those in need get what they participates deserve. “It gives me a sense of joy to know I’ve impacted the wherever he is needed. lives of others less fortunate. I’m not rich, but I don’t His big heart want for anything. People go without food, shelter and extends to all that breaks my heart,” said Hendrix. Hendrix volunteering at creatures to His church, along with several others in the commuFall Festival nity, hosts a Fall Festival in New Site as a way to get the ensure safety and comfort. community out and provide something safe for children Not many can say they would stop after a long day’s to do on Halloween. Hendrix and other volunteers gathwork for a litter of lost puppies on the side of the road, er snack donations for cancer and dialysis patients who with no civilization in sight. But when he came across spend hours at a facility where food is not provided. just that situation, Hendrix couldn’t imagine leaving The church also hosts a canned food drive in which he them, and in a matter of a few hours, he was able to find participates to gather goods for the Tallapoosa County loving homes for all five puppies. Crisis Center. He urges other people to mimic this behavior of self“Alexander City is a very giving community for its lessness and hopes to leave behind a legacy as someone size. We’re small and close knit, so when someone who cares a lot and made a difference anywhere poshurts, we all hurt.” said Hendrix. sible. With the help of the city council and new mayor, “In my short 25 years of life, things have changed so Hendrix said, he feels the town is moving in a positive much. People don’t make time for anything or anyone. direction, and when good things happen, it benefits the I would like to see things slow down. Help a stranger in community as a whole. need. Open a door. Do what you can for someone strugHendrix’s influence isn’t limited to his home of Alexander City, as he has a network of friends and fam- gling,” said Hendrix. 90

DRIVEN 2017

Mia Chandler

Mia Chandler’s own experience with the joys of rescuing a dog during a tough time in her life is what motivates her to do the gratifying, yet sometimes challenging, job of Director at Lake Martin Animal Shelter. Having been in this position for more than eight years, Chandler has seen numerous cases of animal neglect, cruelty and psychological damage, which she said could incline a person to lose faith in humanity; however, having the satisfaction of helping those animals become happy, loving pets and finding forever homes for them is the best reward. “The ultimate finish line – the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow – is when we get these animals paired up with loving homes. It fuels me, and it’s what keeps me going,” said Chandler. Finding that perfect match isn’t always easy, she said. There is a science to the system, based on household size and other pets, and there has to be chemistry. About half the applications that come through the shelter are declined for various reasons, because Chandler feels she has a moral obligation to the animals to ensure a good fit. “I am advocating for these pets. They can’t speak for themselves, so I have to ask the right questions and get enough information to have peace of mind that this will work,” said Chandler. Chandler said she’s never actually off the clock. Working at the shelter is an extension of her life, and it’s not just a job but a passion. It’s her family, the staff at the shelter and her bonds with the community that keep her motivated to do what she does. At the end of the day, her Aussie Cattle Dog/Bluetick rescue puppy, Q’Bella, was the driving motivation to enter this profession. “I see this as paying my debt for what she did for me,” said Chandler.

Mia Chandler

Jamie Dark

What started as a good deed from one Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center, but it is family to another turned into a volunteer funded by donations from the community. effort that now feeds 90 children every Volunteers gather at the Crisis Center once weekend during the school year, after a week on Wednesdays to pack supplies for Alexander City’s Jamie Dark heard teachthe children. ers mention that a student came to school Through the efforts of the community at hungry. large, corporate sponsors, churches, school “My son and I started taking food over administrators, counselors and teachers, to the family,” Dark said. “Then I thought, the program sends reusable bags containthere must be other children, too, that are ing five individual meals home with each hungry over the weekend.” enrolled child every weekend. Dark came across an article about a The backpacks that students take home Colorado backpack program. over the weekends contain five snacks, two “I looked into that and thought ‘we can fruits, one juice, two breakfasts and two do that,’” Dark said. desserts, with a bonus set of toiletries once Jamie Dark That was four years ago, and since then, a month. the program has expanded to include children across the “We are so blessed in this city and this country that I entire Alexander City School System. The program startcannot understand how we could possibly let a child go ed with 12 students, and some 20 new students are added hungry,” Dark said. each year. Consent forms for the program are sent home For volunteering opportunities and to make donations, in the beginning of each school year. email jamiewdark@yahoo.com. Named for a dedicated volunteer, the Bill Myers Backpack Program operates under the umbrella of the DRIVEN 2017

Kevin & Anna Speaks

DRIVEN 2017

Kevin & Anna Speaks

STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

lexander City natives Kevin and Anna Speaks spent their college years away from Alexander City but returned to make their hometown even better. “Our roots run deep here. We grew up here, and both of our families live here. We want to set a good example for our little girl and teach her how important it is to give back to community,” Anna Speaks said. Anna and her husband graduated Benjamin Russell High School in 2001. Kevin played baseball at Central Alabama Community College (CACC); and then, he played baseball at Jacksonville State University, where he earned a degree in finance. Anna also attended CACC; then Auburn, where she received a degree in business administration/marketing. Although they had known each other for years, it wasn’t until they both came home that they started dating. Both Anna and Kevin landed jobs in their fields of study in Alexander City. Anna works as a marketing manager at Russell Lands On Lake Martin, handling marketing for nine locations of the Russell Do it Center, Russell Building Supply stores and Lake Martin Realty. Kevin is a commercial and residential real estate lender at USAmeriBank. “I was fortunate to find a job in my field of study in Alex City. Actually, I had a friend from here that interviewed for a job in Birmingham. The employer asked why in the world he would want to leave Lake Martin, saying that he and his wife had spent their whole lives trying to leave the big city and move to the lake. I don’t think the employer thought highly of my friend’s judgment, and he was not hired. I have to agree with the employer on this one,” Kevin said. The Speaks were married in 2012 and live in town in a neighborhood off Elkahatchee Road, which offers them a middle ground between city and lake life. They love the convenience of the location, Anna said, as it is a short drive to work for both of them, but they can be on the lake or in town in a matter of minutes. “I don’t take for granted how fortunate I am to start a family of my own in the place that I have always called home. Where we live is a perfect location because it is three minutes from Highway 280, and I can be on the first tee box at Willow Point in 15 minutes. That’s a per-

fect balance for me,” Kevin added. Anna and Kevin said they have so many great memories of time spent on Lake Martin with friends. Besides wanting to raise their child surrounded by family, they are excited to spend time on the water with her. “Beginning in late spring and continuing through fall, most of our weekends are spent on the lake. Time very well spent, if you ask me. We can’t wait to introduce our little girl to the lake this summer,” Anna said. Driven to promote Alexander City in every way they can, the Speaks are involved in community development, finding their places on several boards. Kevin said USAmeriBank encourages him to be involved in his community. USAmeriBank has a track record of giving back to the community for over 115 years, he said, and he finds that record extremely motivating. It’s rewarding for him to come to work every day and make a contribution to the success of both the company and the city, he said. Kevin is a Lake Martin Young Professional Board Member and Finance Chair, Chamber of Commerce Finance Committee Member and a supporter of all things community oriented, he said. Anna has the same desire to contribute to the town where she grew up. “I am lucky enough to work for a company that not only encourages community involvement, but also does so by leading the charge. Outside of work, I am an Alexander City Schools Education Foundation Board member, a Gateway to Education Board Member and a Lake Martin Area United Way Board member,” Anna explained. The Speaks believe the young people here are eager to contribute to the success of the community. Kevin encourages other young people to move here for the best combination of school system, community activities and recreational opportunities anywhere in the state and then to get involved. “Anna and I are both products of the excellent school system we all hold in such high regard. We advocate having more young people in leadership and decisionmaking roles in the city,” Kevin said. The Speaks model their lives with a commitment to family and community leadership, just what they encourage others to do in Alexander City.

DRIVEN 2017

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DRIVEN 2017

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DRIVEN 2017

AD INDEX 4 Seasons Irrigation & Landscape... 94

City of Dadeville................................ 15

Karen Channell, State Farm.............. 79

Renaissance Electronics................... 53

A&E Metal Roofing......................... 103

Cherokee Qwik Stop......................... 43

Kelly Heating & Air........................... 36

Rescue K911.................................... 30

A&M Plumbing....................................8

Children’s Harbor.............................. 98

Kent Norris D.M.D.......................... 104

Russell Do it Center.......................... 50

AAA General Contractors.................. 30

Cloud Nine........................................ 94

Koon’s Korner/Koon’s Catering........ 47

Russell Lands on Lake Martin.............2

Advanced Auto Parts........................ 60

Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce..36

LaKay’s Flowers & Gifts................... 88

Russell Marine.................................. 20

Advanced Cardiovascular............... 102

Damon Story, Lake Martin Realty..........94

Lake Martin Building Supply............ 36

Russell Medical................................ 37

Ahluring Angler................................ 27

Dark Insurance................................. 27

Lake Martin Community Hospital..... 92

Sakura Bistro.......................................8

Alabama AG Credit........................... 89

Fairytale Journeys............................ 19

Lake Martin Realty.......................... 100

Satterfield, Inc................................. 79

Alexander City Board of Education... 44

Farmer’s & Merchants Bank............. 96

Lake Martin Resource Association... 47

Scooter’s Grille................................. 14

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce.....78

Fifty Plus........................................... 76

Lakeside Marina............................... 96

Scotty Gordon, Farmers Insurance.....85

Alexander City Church of Christ....... 56

First Baptist Church, Dadeville......... 85

Lakewinds Golf Course.................... 59

Service Printing...................................27

Alexander City Methodist Church..... 77

First United Methodist Church......... 96

Langley Funeral Home...................... 25

Sherry Willis, RE/MAX Around the Lake...... 95

Alexander City Fire Department........ 68

Flattop Boats..................................... 11

Little Lambs & Ivy Day School......... 88

SL Alabama...................................... 70

Alexander City Police Department.... 68

Foshee’s Whats................................ 68

Lynch’s Lawn Care........................... 30

Southern Star Farm.......................... 14

Alex City Guide Service.................... 94

George Hardy, DMD......................... 44

Madix................................................ 31

Sparkle Window Cleaning................ 82

Alex City Marine............................... 43

Gold Ole Boys BBQ..............................9

Main Street Alexander City............... 64

StillWaters Golf ............................... 86

Alex City Church of Christ................ 44

Grace’s Flowers................................ 27

Mark King’s Furniture....................... 85

StillWaters R.A................................. 76

Allegiance Staffing............................ 95

Harold Cochran, State Farm............. 94

Marsha Mason................................. 79

Super 8............................................. 95

American Inn.................................... 94

Harrell Orthodontics......................... 43

Moore’s Hardware............................ 76

Tallapoosa County Board of Education.....14

Barbara’s Studio of Dance................ 94

Henderson & Coker.......................... 26

Movie Rack....................................... 60

Tallapoosa River Electric Cooperative.....44

Benefit Development Group............. 53

Heritage South Credit Union............ 99

Nationwide, The Daughtry Agency... 53

Temple Medical Center..................... 68

Bice Motors...................................... 64

Hill Petroleum................................... 36

Noel Boone....................................... 94

The Meadows................................... 60

Bill’s Electric........................................8

Holley’s Home Furnishings..................9

Norton’s Flooring.............................. 94

The Phillips Agency, Inc................... 94

Blue Horizon Travel.......................... 47

Holman Floor Company................... 53

Onin Staffing..................................... 30

Thomas Auto Parts........................... 19

Bob Alexander Landscaping............. 19

Home Place Mortgage.........................3

Oskars.............................................. 43

TowBoat US...................................... 19

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation...... 47

Homeplate Café................................ 85

Paige Patterson, Lake Martin Voice Realty......43

Town of New Site................................8

Buck’s Dairy Quik............................. 60

Hyde’s Kitchen.................................. 94

Patsy Wagenfuehr, RealtySouth....... 94

USAmeribank.................................... 20

Buzzy Wagenfuehr, RealtySouth...... 94

Idle Time Family Center.................... 94

Plain & Fancy Cleaners..................... 94

Walls Tire & Auto............................. 95

C&T Electric...................................... 50

James M. Sizemore Jr...................... 27

Playhouse Cinemas.......................... 60

Whisker’s Catfish.................................9

Central Alabama Community College.........5

John Dunn Autos............................. 47

Radney Funeral Home...................... 25

Who’s Diner...................................... 60

City of Alexander City....................... 57

J.R.’s Sportsbar & Grill.................... 53

Red Ridge United Methodist Chruch.....76

Wind Creek State Park..................... 64

DRIVEN 2017

LAKE MARTIN CAMPUS

The dedicated teams at Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin and the Family Center at Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children in Birmingham, Alabama, in conjunction with community partners and volunteers have a truly life-changing impact on children with serious illnesses. Without our services and programs these families and children would not have the opportunity to experience life free from routine hospital visits and invasive medical treatments. It’s our mission to p ro v i d e t h e m w i t h re s o u rce s fo r h o p e , healing and the conﬁdence to discover a new

FA M I LY C E N T E R

world of possibilities.

Your support of our fundraising events directly impacts our ability to provide year round, free services and programs to seriously ill children and their families.

2017 SPECIAL EVENTS · April 8th Friends of Children’s Harbor Auction · May 20th Paddle for a Purpose

· May 27th – 28th Art on the Lake at Children’s Harbor Hastings-Curtin Dinner · August 5th

*For more information contact Vicki Tuggle: (334)-857-2021 or vickituggle@childrensharbor.com

Children’s Harbor Treasures & Thrift Store

8842 Kowaliga Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024

From clothing to household items to boats and other valuables, you never know what hidden treasures you may ﬁnd when shopping. The Thrift Store sells donated items and uses the proceeds to help fund the activities at both campuses.

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DRIVEN 2017

This little piggy went to . . .

HERITAGE SOUTH CREDIT UNION

This year, we’re giving nearly a quarter of a million dollars in interest rebates and bonus dividends to over 12,000 members. Not only is that unexpected windfall for our members, it is money that stays right here in our community to help everyone grow and prosper. Don’t you think it’s about time you discovered the benefits of being a member instead of a customer?

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John McInnish 334.415.2149

Leroy Sellers 256.496.2141

Haley McKelvey 256.749.8353

Damon Story 205.789.9526

David Hall 256.496.2585

Jeff Cochran 256.786.0099

Mike Davis 256.226.1238

Michelle Brooks 256.749.1031

Allison Jaye 256.750.0711

India Davis 256.749.7592

Judy Voss 256.794.0779

Jerry Purcell 205.382.3417

Charlotte Hammac 256.496.4434

Mimi Rush 334.399.7874

Terry Parker 334.399.3784

Lindsay Kane 256.675.6792

Amy Duncan 256.212.2222

Jan Hall 256.329.6313

Hugh Neighbors 256.750.5071

Sawyer Davis 205.965.7940

Ashley Chancellor 334.202.9017

Howard Haynie 334.312.0693 DRIVEN 2017

Randall Rogers 334.707.5804

Jim Cleveland 256.596.2220

Becky Haynie 334.312.0928

Dadeville

256.825.9092

Ourtown

256.212.1498

Willow Point 256.212.1498 100