January 2016 Elmore County Living by Tallapoosa Publishers

Elmore January 2016

County Living

HEALTH & FITNESS ISSUE

SHAPE UP WITH WEIGHTS, YOGA, CARDIO, HIKING

Abandoned Rural America Art Jon Foshee on building community ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

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From the Managing Editor's Desk This job is lots of fun. Take the story on page 20. Kenneth and Mary Lyman Boone, Mike Wilson and I met in the lot off Goldmine Road below the dam in temperatures just above freezing at 9:30 a.m. As the trail is presently under construction and therefore pretty much non-existent yet, we crawled, clawed and climbed 100 feet to the top of the bluff to get photos of the view. Kenneth hauled the extra weight of the camera and lenses on a belt around his waist. Our path, covered in 4 to 6 inches of slippery decomposing leaves, was interspersed with a few rocks and the occasional sapling, which served as hand and toe holds. Wherever we could, we paused to catch our breath, assess our progress and encourage each other before we negotiated the next phase of the “trail.” At last, we all reached the top and wandered through even thicker leaves and underbrush another 50 yards where the trees afforded a view of Yates Lake below Martin Dam. Diamonds danced on the water with the bluffs rising above each bank, and we noted that the view had been worth the climb. As Kenneth returned his camera bag to the waist belt, the bag slipped to the ground and rolled in slow motion toward the edge. Too far away for any hope of catching it, I watched while Mike, who was slightly closer, made a vain attempt. “Let it go,” Kenneth said with remarkable calm. “Don’t get hurt trying to catch it.” So right there before our eyes, the bag gained momentum and dropped over the edge. There goes the camera, I thought. There goes the photoshoot. There goes the day. There goes the story. Kenneth sighed. “I guess I’ll go down and see if I can find it,” he said. So after that strenuous climb up, Kenneth picked his way to the bottom in search of the case. He found the bag, and opened it with every expectation that the camera and lenses inside would be shattered. But they weren’t. Not only were they intact, but also all of the contents – and indeed the bag itself – were unscathed and in perfect working condition. So Kenneth climbed, crawled and clawed his way up the bluff once again, and the photoshoot continued, saved by the grace of God and a really great camera bag. We hiked another two and a half hours that afternoon through the unspoiled beauty of the Forever Wild landscape. By the time we came out of the woods, I was dirty and sweaty and smiling from ear to ear. That miraculous day was so much fun I’d have done it for free, but I actually got paid for it. Sweet!

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor

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STAFF President & Publisher Kenneth Boone

kenneth.boone@alexcityoutlook.com

Managing Editor Betsy Iler

betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com

Assistant Magazine Editor Mia Osborn

mia.osborn@alexcityoutlook.com

Distribution Manager David Kendrick

david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing Consultant Jayne Carr

jayne.carr@thewetumpkaherald.com

Creative Services Audra Spears

audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com

Contributors Suellen Young Barry Chrietzberg Jeff Langham Mary K. Moore Carmen Rodgers Jacob Saylor Kevin Taylor Cory Diaz Candace Briggs John Peeler Corey Arwood

To subscribe to Elmore County Living, $25 a year for 12 issues, please call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281 For Advertising Inquiries 334-567-7811 For Editorial Inquiries 256-234-4281 All content, including all stories and photos, are copyright of

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., P.O. Box 99 300 Green Street, Wetumpka, AL 36092 334-567-7811

2016 Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony Tallassee Chamber of Commerce Guest Speakers: Mack & Ria Story

Topic: Key to Making an Impact

Thursday, January 21, 2016 6:00 pm Social, 7:00 pm Dinner & Program Wetumpka Civic Center, 410 S. Main St, Wetumpka Tickets must be purchased or reserved in advance. Call 334-283-5151 or go to www.Tallasseechamber.com

Open to Members and Non-Members Ticket Locations: WACQ, Tallassee Tribune, Chamber Office

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CONTENTS

ON THE COVER Chase Hughes raises the bar on fitness while Brooke Grier acts as spotter. Photo by Kenneth Boone

Sautee Farmhouse Eugene Swain

Features

Columns

In Every Issue

Movie Man

Hot Yoga

Extra! Extra!

The Gamer

Running Roundup

Mover & Shaker

Community Care

Wild Walking

Southern Delights

Working Out for Life

Abandoned Rural America

52.

42 54

The Fame Game Game of the Year Practicing what they Preach Fire and Ice

28 34

Fitness, Faith and Fun Local Races to Start the Year New Elmore County CRATA Trail You Really Can Make a Difference The Land: God's Gift

Building Strength Personal Training

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News Briefs

Millbrook's Jon Foshee

Out & About

In Elmore County

Coming Up

Calendar of Upcoming Events

Where to Find Us Distribution List

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County makes high marks in child well-being

Zumba for Good Health Jacie’s Dance Dynamics Studio will hold Zumba classes twice a week this year. “Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30, and it lasts an hour,” said Abby Traylor, a certified Zumba instructor. “Sometimes we have childcare available. I announce that each day so people know whether they can bring their kids or not.” There is a minimal fee for the classes. “It costs $3 per class and if you need childcare, that is an extra $2,” said Traylor. Traylor began Zumba as a way to remain healthy while she was pregnant. Because the class is less strenuous than more rigorous options, Traylor had to make some changes to her exercise regimen that included Zumba once she became pregnant with her youngest son. Not only is Zumba great physically, it is also good for mental health, as it reduces stress, Traylor said. For more information about Zumba classes you may contact Jacie’s Dance Dynamic’s at 334541-5019.

Random drug testing policy proposed to BOE

Elmore County Technical Center Director Jimmy Hull and Superintendent Dr. Andre Harrison presented a “90 to 95 percent complete” drug testing policy at the Elmore County Board of Education meeting at Stanhope Elmore High School in midNovember. The policy could be ready to implement as early as the next school year.

Extra! Extra! News from Elmore County and surrounding areas

Tallassee names building inspector Tallassee Mayor Robert Payne last month appointed John Stonaker to the position of city building inspector. A native of Tallassee, Stonaker took up the active role as building official Dec. 7. Stonaker owns a local business, a barbershop called Gameday Clips, and he graduated from Tallassee Highschool in 1988. Stonaker said that among other duties, his job as building official would

consist of inspecting new structures, working along with the planning commission to make sure that all the businesses and residences are keeping their property up to code. As building inspector, he will take several classes through North Alabama University to gain certification for the position. His training should be finished within six months, said council member Rob Rygiel

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Elmore County ranks 10th among Alabama’s 67 counties in child wellbeing, according to the 2015 Alabama Kids Count Data Book, published by the non-profit Voices for Alabama’s Children, the state’s longest-standing child advocacy organization. The annual data book reports state and county data trends on child wellbeing for Alabama. This year’s data book includes data on 51 key indicators across four issue areas: health, education, safety and economic security. This year marks the 22nd edition of the Voices for Alabama’s Children research report. The rankings were based on nine key factors, including children in poverty; fourth-grade reading proficiency; child food security; low-weight births; children in singleparent families; births to unmarried teens; teens not in school and not working; and births to females aged 1019 per 1,000.

"Fanfare" raises $23K for band scholarship fund

Elmore County High slugger signs with Alabama When you sign with the University of Alabama, the whole school comes out. That was the scene in the Elmore County High Gymnasium where senior shortstop Elissa Brown signed a letter-of-intent with national powerhouse Crimson Tide's softball team, becoming ECHS’s first Division-1 softball signee. “It feels great. I’m just extremely blessed to be able to have this opportunity. I’m just glad I was able to share it with my school, my family and all my friends,” Brown said. Brown verbally committed to Alabama Sept. 10, 2014. Her play in her sophomore and junior seasons with the Panthers resulted in back-to-back First Team All-State selections. In the last two years as a leadoff batter she hit for a combined .538 with a .604 on-base percentage. She has stolen 103 bases and scored 111 runs. The speedster credited extra workouts for getting her ready to sign and play for her “dream school.”

As president of the Troy University Band Alumni Association, Michael Bird was responsible for a benefaction fund to assist with funding student scholarships. After two years of serving and with less than $10,000 in the fund, Bird decided to publish a book of essays from former band members and give all the proceeds from his book to the fund. Little did he know, his book would become an overnight success. In only two days, the book raised $23,000 for the scholarship fund.

Millbrook parade draws rave reviews

Crowds lined the mile-long route along Millbrook’s Main Street early in December to watch the Spirit of Christmas Parade.

ITS awards $30,000 to area charities Four local charities received donations totaling $30,000 following the annual charity golf tournament hosted by Wetumpka-based Information Transport Solutions (ITS). Recipients included Family Sunshine Center, Coosa Outdoor Worship Spot, Imagination Library and the Jason Michael Hilty Scholarship Fund. The Coosa Outdoor Worship Spot gets children away from their everyday electronic devices to re-introduce them to the wonders of nature -- right outside their doors. The Imagination Library strives to help children who may be less fortunate get books in their hands at a young age so they are school-ready when the time comes. The library serves up to 1,000 children and puts up to 60 free books in their hands. The Family Sunshine Center has long offered aid to survivors of abusive situations. The Jason Michael Hilty Scholarship Fund annually assists one graduating WHS student with a chance for a better education.

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Hot Yoga Wetumpka studio focuses on fitness and faith Story by Mia Osborn Photos by Suellen Young

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Hot yoga students spell out the name of the game

hen Vanessa Rogers rented a yoga workout DVD from her local video store 15 years ago, she wasn’t sure what to expect. “I woke up the next day, and I was so sore, like I had lifted weights. I was like, what in the world was that? And then I just fell in love with it,” said Rogers who recently opened Yoga4Him, a Christian-based yoga studio in downtown Wetumpka. Rogers practiced yoga by herself for years before she took the opportunity to teach a

NOW boot camp class, where she mixed yoga poses into the high-energy exercises. From there, she started a yoga group at her church and realized that her yoga practice was deepened when she connected it to her spirituality by focusing her thoughts on God. Rogers ultimately saw the chance to share her revelation with others through the studio on Bridge Street. Her faith informs all aspects of the business, Rogers said, and the classes at Yoga4Him have names like Joy, Goodness and Love & Kindness. The titles are drawn from the fruits of the spirit listed in the biblical letter of Paul to the

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Yoga4Him weaves Christian ideology into traditional yoga practice

Galatians, and they are just one way that Rogers tries to de-mystify yoga for her local students. “My target audience are the ones that are not familiar with yoga or have been afraid to try yoga because of its origins,” she explained. Many benefits of yoga, which were thought for centuries to be connected to Eastern religious practices, are now being explained by medicine. For example, the type of deep breathing that students practice as they move from one position to the next has been scientifically proven to reduce inflammation that leads to heart disease. “Flexibility, toning, strengthening ... it does so much for you,” Rogers said. To further increase the health benefits, most of the classes at Yoga4Him are hot yoga. That means the studio is heated to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the classes. The heat allows muscles to stretch more than they normally would, reducing the risk of injury while increasing flexibility. Rogers first experienced hot yoga when a friend encouraged her to try a class at a Montgomery studio. “I thought I’d give it a try,” she said. “Then I became addicted to the heat.” In addition to the physical benefits of yoga, Rogers said she has seen the workout improve students’

mental health. “I had a client tell me the other day she’d cut her anxiety meds in half, and she only comes here once a week,” she said. Part of the calming effect of Rogers’ yoga classes might be the studio itself. She has renovated the former hotel on East Bridge Street to be intimate and cozy. The wood-floored studio is softly lit and filled with charming furniture and artwork. In the classroom, ceiling-mounted heat panels designed by Roger’s husband are printed with scriptures so they can inspire students looking heavenward in the middle of difficult poses. Near the front of the building is a post, painted sky blue and covered with sticky notes. Each note is a prayer request placed there by a class member. During classes, students are encouraged to meditate on their prayer requests and the blessings they have received. That quiet “mat time” is the soul of Rogers’ approach to yoga. “It has benefits for internal health that we don’t even realize,” she explained. She plans to keep discovering those benefits with her classes, one deep breath at a time. To learn more about yoga with a Christian perspective, call Rogers at 334-301-7714.

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Owner Vanessa Rogers

Sheri Rape demonstrates a seated twist

The Yoga4Him studio is decorated with Christian artwork (top left) and colorful touches like this collection of extra mats

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Local 5K and 10K events are a great way to maintain interest, training and motivation for your “Get Fit” New Year’s resolution. Excepting the hot summer months, races are scheduled throughout Elmore County every month of the year. Though plans for most fall runs have not yet been finalized, here are a few that can keep you active until spring. Many of these races are charity events and provide a great way to support worthy causes while improving your health and lifestyle. Jan. 30 Paint the Park for Jody

This memorial 5K run/walk through Gold Star Park in Wetumpka honors Jody Marie Sanford and funds a scholarship program bearing her name. Sanford was a crosscountry runner at Wetumpka High School who passed away in February 2014. Registration is $35 with a $3 signup fee. Registration ends at 7 p.m. on Jan. 20, so visit runsignup.com/Races now to sign up. The race starts at 9 a.m., and there will be a paint party at the finish.

Jan. 30 The 22nd Polar Bear 5K Run

More than just a 5K run, this annual event funds youth mission work and features a chili cook-off, a race day spread of food and post-race drawings for more than $1,000 in prizes. Entry for the prizes is automatic when you register. Race awards will be presented for top male and female runners in each of 13 age divisions, as well as overall winners and race masters (over 40). This event has hosted more than 600 runners in past years. The 5K run starts at 9 a.m. on Third Street in Prattville, in front of the First Baptist Church, and a 1-mile run/walk starts at 10 a.m. The course is mostly flat with a few hilly sections, and water stations will be accessible at the halfway and finish points with complimentary refreshments for runners after the race. In addition, a registered nurse will be on site to assist with any emergencies. If you don’t want to run, you can register as a Runner in Hibernation to support the FBC Youth Choir. Hibernation registrants will receive a race T-shirt (mailed after the event) but not a number. The entry fee for the chili cook-off is $20, and race spectators will be able to purchase a bowl for $5. Packet pickup for racers registered prior to midnight on Jan. 24 will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 29. Packets also can be picked up at 7 a.m. on race day. To register, visit www.polarbearrun.org.

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Running Roundup Runners celebrate the finish after the 5K Paint the Park for Jody Run

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Feb. 6 7th Annual Millbrook Mardi Gras Run

This trail run through the scenic grounds of Camp Grandview YMCA in Millbrook benefits the Millbrook First United Methodist Church youth missions. The event features live music, inflatables for the kids, an after-race feast, fun and race prizes for the 8K, 5K and 1-mile races. Register online at www.active.com/millbrook-al/ train-run-races/millbrook-mardi-gras-run-2016. Entry fee for the 8K and 5K races is $25; $15 fee for the 1-mile trail run. Or register online as a phantom runner for $25. Race day registration is $30. Everyone registered by Feb. 3 will receive a T-shirt. Race day registration and packet pick-up begins at 6:30 a.m. on Feb. 6. Runners report to the starting line at 8:20 a.m. for warm-up and announcements. The 8K and 5K races begin at 8:30 a.m., and the 1-mile run starts at 9:45 a.m. with the awards and door prizes presented at 10 a.m. Medals will be awarded for the top three male and female winners in each age division.

Feb. 13 The 6th Annual Critter Crawl

Meet at the new NaturePlex at the Alabama Wildlife Federation (AWF) headquarters on Lanark Road for the 5K Critter Crawl trail run. The $25 5K and $20 1-mile

race fees benefit the center’s education programs and include great food and beautiful scenery through the AWF 350-acre property. T-shirts are guaranteed for participants who register before Feb. 1. Don’t forget the costume contest, race awards, door prizes, live music and vendors. Spectators welcome! The 5K race starts at 9 a.m. with the 1-mile run at 10 a.m. Pick up race packets between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 12, at AWF. The course will be open that afternoon for anyone who wants to check it out before race time the next day.

Feb. 26 The 7th Annual Russell Forest Run

This popular run through Russell Forest offers a different sort of run than the traditional street race, as the 5K and 10K routes wind along clay roads built for bicycles and electric cars. It’s not unusual for racers to see deer along the path. And the post-race party at The Stables is a great time. The Russell Forest Run raises money for the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation, which recently put iPads in the hands of students. This race attracts several hundred runners each year, drawing some from as far away as Michigan on race day. The 10K race begins at 7:45 a.m. with the 5K starting

The Critter Crawl at the Alabama Wildlife Federation headquarters funds local programs

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10 minutes later at 7:55 a.m. Entry fee for the 10K race is $40 and includes a high-performance running shirt. 5K runners can enter for $20 and will receive a cotton T-shirt. Race packets can be picked up from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. the day before the race and from 6 a.m. to 7 a.m. on race day at the Discovery Center at Russell Crossroads on Highway 63. Register at www.russellforestrun.com. Race results will be posted on this website as well. For directions and lodging notes, visit the website or call 256-97-1019.

March 19 5K for Costa Rica Missions

Support mission work in Costa Rica and keep your New Year's fitness resolution progressing when you sign up for the New Home Baptist Church 5K in Wetumpka. The race begins at 8 a.m. from the parking lot of the church at 5130 Elmore Road. Preregister online at active. com for $25. Race day registration is $30. If you don’t run, you can still support the fundraiser by registering as a phantom runner for $15. Register by March 12 to get a T-shirt. For information, contact New Home Baptist Church at 334-567-5966.

March 19-20 Lake Martin 27, 50 and 100

The ultrarun returns to Lake Martin for the fourth time with this year’s 27-, 50- and 100-mile races at Russell Crossroads. This is a great event for the first time marathoner or ultrarunner; however, the course is no walk in the park for seasoned ultra-milers, said race organizer David Tosch. “This course is extremely hilly. People come to Alabama and think it’s going to be flat, but it’s really not,” Tosch explained. “There are about 14,000 feet of elevation on the 100.” At the same time, Tosch said, there are no big climbs or technical sections on the course, and the entire race is run on trails, which is unique in the ultra circuit. “All of this race is on private land. There are no road sections,” he said. “That’s unusual for an ultra race. For most races, there are some sections on paved roads. With this race, the only paved roads are one crossing and a short stretch at the very beginning to approach the forest.” Tosch said the Lake Martin 100 has earned a reputation as being one of the prettiest 100-mile races across the country. Participation at this year’s race is expected to grow by more than 50 percent, Tosch said, as registrations

Paint the Park for Jody benefits a scholarship fund in honor of Jody Marie Sanford

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are up that much over last year at this time. from 6 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. for half marathoners. In addition, this year’s race is expected to attract a Half marathon begins at 7 a.m. with a four-hour few celebrities in the running world. Karl Meltzer, one time limit. The 5K Centerpoint Challenge begins at of the best ultrarunners in the world, has signed up 7:15 a.m. with a one-hour time limit. to participate. Meltzer owns the record for the most Awards for the 5K will be presented at 8:30 a.m. 100-mile runs on the planet – 35 – after 20 years as an with half marathon awards presented at 10 a.m. folultrarunner. lowed by post-race Entry fees party with live are $220 for the entertainment. The Russell Forest Run, with 5K and 10K 100-miler, $100 for Race participants options, starts at Russell Crossroads and the 50 and $55 for will receive T-shirts. raises funds for education the 27-mile race. Jogging strollers Details and regisare welcome on the tration information 5K course. are available at For age divisions lakemartin100mile. and details, visit the homestead.com. race site at active. com.

Apr. 2 2016 Centerpoint Half Marathon and 5K Race

If you’ve kept up with your fitness resolution for 2016, you just might be ready for this annual half marathon race that supports student missions and Stella’s Voice. Register for the half marathon by Jan. 31 to pay an entry fee of just $55. The fee goes up to $65 in February and after that $75 until race day. Entry for the 5K is just $20 before Feb. 1 and then $25 until race day. Entry fee for the Kids Fun Run is $20. Half marathon participants must be 12 years of age or older on race day. Register and pick up race packets between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Prattville YMCA on McQueen Smith Rd. South. Race packets also can be picked up from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. on race day. Bag check provided

May 14 The 2nd Annual Jelani 5K

This walker-, stroller- and petfriendly race takes runner through historical downtown Prattville and ends at the Artesian Well House where awards will be presented for the top three overall winners and individuals. There will be music, water, snacks and cheering along the route, and participants who register by April 14 are guaranteed a T-shirt. This race supports 14- to 18-yearold girls with their cultural enrichment program and an international youth service project in Zambia and Zimbabwe. Race starts at 8 a.m. Pick up race packets on May 13 between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at Pratt Park.

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Lake Martin Hospice Welcome Home Team

We will be there to help when you bring your loved one home from the hospital. CANCER HEART DISEASE/CHF KIDNEY FAILURE LIVER DISEASE STROKE/COMA HIV/AIDS PARKINSON’S DISEASE ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE/DEMENTIA ALS ( LOU GEHRIG’S DISEASE) LUNG DISEASE/COPD

DADEVILLE 256-825-3272 WETUMPKA 334-514-0682 A Division of Ivy Creek Healthcare

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Mike Wilson and Mary Lyman Boone on a day hike through lands Forever Wild is purchasing to add to the CRATA trail system

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Wild Walking CRATA expands trail system into Elmore County with help from Forever Wild, Alabama Power and the county commission Story by Betsy Iler Photos by Kenneth Boone ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

herokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association (CRATA) this spring expects to open a 5-mile trail south of Martin Dam. The first such trail in Elmore County, the cooperative effort between CRATA, Forever Wild Land Trust, Alabama Power Company and the Elmore County Commission launches an effort that eventually will triple the mileage of the trail system in Central Alabama, with the largest number of miles – as many as 25 miles of trail – in Elmore County alone. After a year of planning, CRATA volunteers in November began clearing the old railroad bed that nearly a century ago was built for the construction of Martin Dam. When the dam was complete, the rails were removed and the bed abandoned, though most of the earthen structures remained in place. The initial trail will stretch from Kent, Alabama, to a parking lot on Goldmine Road and will feature vistas from the 100-foot bluffs above Yates Lake, deep gorges through picturesque open woods and a moderate, low-grade hike through Forever Wild lands. Though the original 5-mile trail is not a loop, CRATA founder Jimmy K. Lanier of Eclectic said it would include designated turn-around areas for hikers who desire a shorter trek or do not wish to traverse the entire trail at one time. Parking areas will be developed at both ends of the railroad trail, so hikers can access it from either the north or south trailhead. The Elmore County Commission will assist the project with road maintenance on Goldmine Road to give trail-building volunteers access to the work sites. The commission also will perform parking lot preparation work at the north end of the trail. Forever Wild is finalizing its purchase of Alabama Power Company property that lies adjacent to the wildlife management area the land trust already owns. Along with a smaller land acquisition, the trail system property will encompass more than 5,000 acres of land. The project hatched from a hike Lanier took through part of the area more than a year ago. His initial foray took him

from the foot of Martin Dam to Chaneyhatchee Creek where a trestle bridge once supported the trains crossing the gorge. “It was beautiful, just spectacularly beautiful. I went back and talked to the CRATA board of directors about putting a trail system in there,” Lanier said. With the board in agreement, Lanier approached Forever Wild about creating a hiking trail on the property. In April, representatives from Forever Wild, Alabama Power Company, the Elmore County Commission and CRATA met to discuss the project. They marked a preliminary route on a map of the area and hiked the railroad bed from the north end to the gorge. Later, Forever Wild trustees agreed to purchase additional lands to complete the new trail. The trail also would offer a glimpse into the history of Martin Dam. Completed in 1926, construction on the dam began in 1923. At that time, the Highline Railroad on the west side of the Tallapoosa River and a Lowline Railroad on the river’s east bank were built to transport the building materials to the dam worksite. The Lowline Railroad brought supplies and materials to the site, and the Highline Railroad brought sand, gravel and cement to the mix plant. Today, little remains of this historical route, other than A trestle bridge will the beds upon which the carry hikers over rails once laid. In the 90-plus Channahatchee Creek years that have passed since the rails were taken up, the beds have suffered some minor erosion in places and trees have grown up on the relatively flat 1 to 3 percent grade of the bed. The trail work began last fall as soon as temperatures dipped into the 40s and 50s, said CRATA’s Smith Mountain trail maintenance manager, Mike Wilson. “It needs to be cool enough that we can work in the woods without being overheated or having to deal with critters like snakes on the trail,” Wilson explained. Trail building is a long, laborious effort that began with the planning and marking of the route, Wilson said. “Then we have to go in with chain saws and cut down the smaller trees that are in the trailway, clear out the brush and move off the dead trees that fallen across the path.

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After that, we need to rake the trail and get down to the dirt where we can see if there are any holes we need to fill or grading we need to do. And remember,” he said, “all of this work needs to be done by hand. We can’t get any machinery in here, so we have to hike in with our tools.” Several picnic and recreation areas have been designated on the property, and Wilson said benches will be made there so hikers can relax and enjoy the views. At least six bridges will be built along the route, including a trestle across the Channahatchee Creek gorge, which runs more than the length of a football field from the bed on the south side to that on the north. Forever Wild has agreed to provide primary financing support for the bridge, and a professional engineer has offered services to design the bridge and oversee its construction, but additional funds will be needed to complete the route. “It’s really phenomenal what we’ve been able to accomplish, as small as this organization is,” Wilson said. “We have a small board of directors and membership, but we believe in the service we are offering the public to give people access to these great hikes.” Since its founding in 2004, CRATA has built 17 miles of pedestrian-only trails in three locations that skirt the shoreline of Lake Martin. The Deadening Alpine Trail is a 4.2mile challenging loop that rewards hikers with views that include the top of Lake Martin’s Chimney Rock and thickets of mountain laurel and rhododendron and breathtaking

rock formations, such as the Needles Eye and Jasmine Bluff. Just to the south of the Deadening trail, the Cherokee Ridge loops offer hikers options that range from 1 to 7 miles, starting and ending at Overlook Park northeast of Martin Dam and just 1 mile from the Goldmine Road entrance to the new trail. In addition, CRATA volunteers restored an old fire lookout tower atop Smith Mountain 20 miles to the north on the east side of Lake Martin. They built a trail system there that winds along the sides of one of the highest mountain in Tallapoosa County and includes an Island Hop Trail that is only accessible when the water level of the lake is down. Though the new trail the non-profit association is building in Elmore County is just 5 miles, Wilson said, the longterm vision calls for additional trails through the Forever Wild property, including a spur to Saddle Rock, which is Elmore County’s highest point. As of yet, there is no timeline for completion of the entire system of trails, Wilson said. “With the size of our group, all we can do at this point is identify a single project and work to complete it. When we get that done, we can turn our attention to the next one,” he said. Donations to CRATA are tax deductible and can be sent to CRATA, Attn: Jimmy K. Lanier, P.O. Box 240503, Eclectic AL 36024. To volunteer with CRATA to finish the trail or work on other projects with the association, contact Lanier at 334-541-2729.

The bluffs rise almost 100 feet above the Tallapoosa River

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fter a long day of work, Jon Foshee stopped at the construction site of Millbrook’s new River Bank and Trust building at the intersection of Alabama 14 and Old Prattville Road to check on the day’s progress. It’s a location he soon will manage, but the project is as much a symbol of his relationship with the town as it is the progress of the community. Foshee has lived in Millbrook for more than 40 years – since he was only 6 years old – and he’s put his hands and heart toward building the community for as long as he can remember. Since his family moved to Millbrook from Phenix City in 1975, Foshee has watched the town grow from 2,000 people into a keystone city of more than 15,000. When his family sputtered into town in a U-Haul with no air conditioning, his brothers and their dog in tow, he said, he was in awe of the oak canopies under which they passed. To this day, he still keeps a photo of those arching oaks in his office at work. As a boy, he used to walk along Highway 14 and not see a single car on the road, but thanks in no small part to his own efforts, the same trip today is a very different experience. With a mixture of his professional ability and dedication to civic service, Foshee has supported the town’s growth. A family man, Foshee and his wife of 15 years, Patti, have an 11-year-old daughter. After earning a bachelor’s degree in management from Troy University in Montgomery and recently finishing at LSU Banking School, Foshee has remained dedicated to the local community and said he chooses to raise his own family here. The role of community banker, he thought, was a great way to make a difference. He began his career in 2001 at People’s Bank and Trust and moved to River Bank and Trust three and a half years ago. As a lender, Foshee said he processes many loan requests personally. From small loans for auto repairs or dental work to multi-million dollar business loans, he said, the role of the small banker is vital for the community. “I’m going to offer this branch as a meeting place for our quarterback club; if the chamber board wants to meet here from time to time … we’ll do that. Just to get people, not to talk about the bank, just to talk about our community and what’s going on,” Foshee said. Active with the Millbrook Chamber of Commerce, Grandview YMCA and other community efforts, Foshee

is as passionate about the community’s future as he is fond of its past. As chairman of the board of directors at Grandview YMCA, Foshee is positive about the organization’s forward momentum and sees as vital its role in the community’s growth. “We look at our YMCA as ‘what are the things we need to do to help our community grow, to bring people to Millbrook, Alabama, through the YMCA?’ If you’re a retired person and you like to fish, you can make the short drive to come fishing with us or get involved in exercise,” he said. Through the Millbrook Men’s Club, Foshee has helped to raise funds that go back into the community’s libraries and parks. He serves as the secretary of the quarterback club, supporting the Stanhope Elmore football program and raising money to pay for buses, meals and improvements to the stadium. “Go Mustangs!” he cheered his alma mater. And as a deacon at Coosada Baptist Church and a member since 2005, Foshee said his faith is an important aspect of his life in Millbrook. “Sometimes, you can forget where you are as a Christian and not put God first, and he’ll let you know real quickly that you better get back to where you need to be,” he said. Dedicated to Millbrook’s development, Foshee said the positive progress is the result of the passion of the town’s leaders. “Our leadership has a passion for our town,” he said. “It grows and radiates from our city government, through our Realtors, through our chamber – through really every organization that works together to support our little town. “It takes a village.” And while a part of him misses the tiny town in which he grew up, he thinks the essence of Millbrook has remained solid. “It’s a good place to put some roots in the ground,” he said. Putting roots in the ground now has become part of Foshee’s livelihood. The new branch of River Bank and Trust, he said, will bridge the gap between Wetumpka and Prattville and will offer more opportunities for those who do business in Millbrook and call the town home. Even when he’s acting in a professional capacity, if it’s about his hometown of Millbrook, it’s always personal for Foshee.

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Mover & Shaker

Jon Foshee

Story by Alan Kouns Photo by Barry Chrietzberg

For Millbrook's John Foshee (right), building a community – like building a bank – is about roots in the ground

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Working Out for Life Wetumpka woman makes a life-changing difference with daily exercise and healthy eating Story by Betsy Iler Photos by Barry Chrietzberg

Body pump instructor Dana Swindall (right) increases reps and tempo to help her class improve their health

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“My doctor said, ‘This is it; you’ve got to do something,’” Barbara Armstrong said. “My blood pressure was 180/140.” That was last January, and since then, the retired Army single mom has lost 32 pounds, brought her blood pressure down to treatable levels and developed an exercise routine that brings her to the local YMCA fitness center for 12 or more hours every week. “I work out six days a week now,” Armstrong said. “I run a 5K loop on the treadmill and take a class every day.” The one-hour classes – Pilates, Zumba, body pump or whatever is offered that works for her schedule – helps Armstrong stay focused and disciplined. While she might be inclined occasionally to stay home instead of go to work out, she knows she would have to answer to her classmates if she didn’t show up. “I will show up for a class, but if I’m on my own, I might not,” she said. In addition, Armstrong made some changes to her diet. She didn’t go for a fad or quickloss plan but rather adopted a healthy criterion for meals and snacks. She chose the YMCA because she was already familiar with the facility; her daughter, Adrianne, has played basketball through YMCA programs for 12 years now. Armstrong initially joined the YMCA in Montgomery in 2004, so she would have something to do while Adrianne worked out. When she moved to Wetumpka seven years ago, her membership moved, too, but

she didn’t get serious about exercise until her blood pressure rose to dangerous levels. Scot Patterson, executive director at the ‘Y’ on Red Eagle Drive in Wetumpka, said it’s been remarkable and inspiring to watch Armstrong’s progress. “She’s just a really great example of how people can change their lives,” Patterson Barbara Armstrong runs a 5K said. loop and takes a class at the The Wetumpka YMCA six days a week YMCA has more than 1,900 members, and some 250 of those members use the facility on a daily basis, in addition to local children who are enrolled in after-school and basketball programs. “Fitness is part of our goal to build healthy minds, bodies and spirits in a family-friendly atmosphere,” Patterson said. “We are focused more here on cardio than weight training. We offer a lot of classes for group exercise.” One of those – the body pump class Armstrong attends on Monday and Wednesday evenings – is taught by Dana Swindall who starts the packed room off at a slow tempo and eases into reps of lifting weights and stepping routines. “Most of the people in this class are regulars, they come every time,” Armstrong said. “A lot of times, body builders will show up for the class and think it’s easy, but they find out it’s hard work.” It’s that hard work and discipline that has helped Armstrong turn her health around. “I still have some more to do, a few more pounds to lose, but I feel good, and working out has made my life better,” she said.

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Abandoned Rural America Story by Betsy Iler Photos courtesy of Abandoned Rural America & Elmore County Art Guild

Blake Smith likes to capture old relics like his "Collapsing Farmhouse" in the fading light

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An exhibit pairing at KFMG celebrates the nation's past and the gift of land

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or the first time, the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery (KFMG) will host a traveling exhibit when the Abandoned Rural America (ARA) collection opens next month on the second floor of the Wetumpka City Administration Building. KFMG will be the exhibit’s first stop outside the state of Georgia, and the gallery will feature a companion display of local works in conjunction with the ARA show. “The two shows will be closely related,” said KFMG president Phyllis Kennedy, “and the auxiliary show will be juried by two of the artists from Georgia who are featured in the ARA exhibit.” Some 40 years in the making, ARA documents the transition of the American small family farm to development as an urban and suburban-based service nation through the visual and performance arts. The exhibit incorporates the works of 15 artists and potters, including painters, photographers, writers and musicians. A video arm of the project recorded vacant farmhouses, falling down barns, rusting farm implements, fallow fields, stories and poetry, music and lyrics that pay tribute to the historic family farm lifestyle. The project began in 2011 when artist Peter Muzyka, who grew up on a Pennsylvania farm in the 1960s and had depicted images of old abandoned farms and barns in his egg tempera paintings and ink drawings, enlisted the help of three regional artists to create an initial exhibit that opened in Milledgeville, Georgia, in 2012. A second show later that year also featured photography, and by the summer of 2013, the exhibit included written works from the Greensboro Writers Guild. As the exhibit attracted a wider audience, the works of more artists joined the original participants, and a 102-page companion book was published, as well as the video featuring interviews and original music created for the series. Abandoned Rural America showcases art from across

the country and in beautiful imagery presents the reality that everything undergoes change. One visual aspect of the collection is the realization that the over-abundant wood – from which farmhouses, barns and country stores were built – will eventually decay and disappear, and with it, the physical history of the way of life on which America was founded. The project celebrates the still-existing remnants of that way of life. The exhibit of local works, entitled The Land: God’s Gift, will be displayed in a separate hall of the light-filled gallery at 408 SE Main St., Wetumpka. A presentation series will enhance the joint exhibit, Kennedy said, with a reception, movies, lectures and other events. A number of the Georgia artists will attend a reception at KFMG from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Feb. 12. The public is invited to attend the reception. A Words & Music performance will be held Sunday, April 3 at 2 p.m. at the Wetumpka Depot Players Theatre at 300 S. Main St. with no admission charge. Additional presentations will include Tuesdays with Kelly, a showing of the post-depression documentary, The Holtville Story, and other films and lectures. The exhibit will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Jan. 19 until April 22. Some original works of art, handcrafted items, notecards, prints and books will be available for sale. The exhibit is made possible through a grant from Central Alabama Electric Cooperative and support from the City of Wetumpka. Kennedy said she first became aware of the exhibit when she picked up a flier about it at a visitors’ center in Georgia. The concept and artwork so intrigued her that she tracked down the exhibit’s original artist, Peter Muzyka. “The gallery board is excited about being able to bring this exhibit to the area. This is something that will speak to the people of Alabama,” Kennedy said. For more information about the exhibits, visit www.abandonedruralamerica.com or www.kfmg-online.org. Lisa Wheeler said seeing nature through the viewfinder of her first digital camera helped her slow down and notice the little things

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Lisa Wheeler's "The Shelling Shed" took Best in Photography at the Oconee Arts Exhibition XXXII

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This page, clockwise from above: Charles St. John Dyer's "The Peter's Family Store;" a Theresa Wayne submission for the exhibit, The Land: God's Gift; "The Hill Family Farm" by Joe Coggins; Sam Triana's "Still Standing;" "Grandma's Preserves" by Cassie Hawkins Facing page, clockwise from top left: Kathy Atchison's "Wash Day Mule Kid;" Shirley Esco's "Color of Cotton;" Cassie Hawkins' ceramic bowls; Peter Muzyka's "Storm Clouds"

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Building Strength Personal trainer Chase Hughes helps clients build better lives through weight lifting Story by Mia Osborn Photos by Kenneth Boone 34

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Even on week nights, Apex Fitness in Wetumpka is busy with regulars

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t’s that time of year again: More than 80 percent of the adults in the U.S. started 2016 with a resolve to change their lifestyles for the better this year. And nearly 70 percent of those who made resolutions set better health among their top goals – getting in shape, losing weight or changing their diets. Yet numerous studies indicate that at year’s end, only 8 percent will have achieved those goals. Success takes commitment, discipline and sometimes, the help of a personal trainer. “The biggest thing a personal trainer can provide is knowledge,” said Chase Hughes, the owner, manager and trainer-in-residence at Apex Fitness on Hill Street in Wetumpka. Hughes has lived a life dedicated to fitness. His father owned a gym; Hughes himself became a personal trainer at 18 and said meeting with a trainer can make the difference between success and failure for numerous reasons, including motivation, commitment and avoiding injuries A trainer’s knowledge of the body helps him or her to know when to increase the difficulty of a workout and when to slow things down to prevent exhaustion or injury, Hughes explained. Most common workout injuries are caused by improper use of equipment or by working too hard. Trainers help their clients exercise safely by pointing out incorrect hand positions and postures, as well as monitoring for signs of burnout. Ignoring excessive pain or tiredness while exercising can lead to an injury that puts workouts on hold and stops progress dead in its tracks. “For one day’s mistake, you can end up regressing an entire year,” Hughes explained. There are a lot of personal trainers out there. Even if a client wants to work with a trainer, choosing the right one can be daunting. Hughes said the first thing to look for in a personal trainer is, well, looks. “Their body is their billboard,” he explained. “If someone loves what they do, it shows.” Hughes – who won first place in the Junior Heavyweight division of the 2015 NPC Alabama Bodybuilding Championship – encourages those who are considering a personal trainer to think about how they want to look after their training has taken effect and to find a personal trainer that fits that ideal; however, he said, looks aren’t everything. A good trainer also should have a strong personality to match the physique. “It’s a manipulation game to keep you motivated,

to make you want to go on,” he said. “Motivation is the hardest part.” Research shows that people left to their own devices at the gym generally choose less challenging workouts: lighter weights, fewer sets and less time on cardio machines. These small choices can lead to big fitness losses over time. Trainer supervision is one way to ensure that clients reach their personal best. Everyone wants something different from his or her workout, and part of any trainer’s job is tailoring workouts to individuals to help them reach their specific goals. Ashlee Simmons, who trains with Hughes, said she’s seen improvements working with a trainer that she wouldn’t have known how to accomplish on her own. “When I started here, I did cardio,” she said. “I was on the treadmill, and Chase came up behind me and said, ‘If you want to get rid of that cellulite, you need to crank up the incline.’” Rather than being offended, Simmons turned to Hughes for advice on how to achieve the effect she wanted. She now works out regularly under Hughes’ guidance. Exercising with regularity is just as important as beginning an exercise program in the first place. “Diet, exercise and consistency are the three biggest things,” said Hughes. Of these three, Hughes believes the most important and hardest to follow is consistency. According to him, consistency in fitness means more than just sticking to a workout schedule. It means living a healthy lifestyle outside of the gym. An hour of cardio, he said, can’t undo a week of fast food. To keep from slipping into unhealthy habits between workouts, it helps to have a friend or two with fitness goals of their own. Simmons has been working out with her friend and fellow nurse, Brooke Grier. Grier is also a fan of personal trainers. “They push you,” she explained. “They say, ‘we’re gonna do more.’” Grier and Simmons work with Hughes on different muscle groups each time they visit. This keeps them from overworking any particular part of the body. They said Hughes’ motivation and the friendly atmosphere of the gym keep them coming back. “We’ve got an awesome clientele,” Hughes said. “We’ve all gotten better together.” For more information about personal training, visit the Apex Fitness Facebook page or call Hughes at 334-478-4920.

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Hughes coaches Brooke Grier through a tough rep as Ashlee Simmons looks on

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The Fame Game Reynolds, Eastwood, Streep and Cruise

Jeff Langham

MOVIE MAN Dr. Jeff Langham is State Assistant Superintendent for External and

Governmental Affairs and a lifelong lover of film.

How does a movie star sustain a longterm “successful” career? The recent publication of Burt Reynolds’ latest memoir, But Enough About Me, has prompted me to ask this question. A top box office draw during the 1970s, Reynolds’ story is the classic tale of a superstar’s slow fadeout in Hollywood.

Burt Reynolds

What promise Burt Reynolds demonstrated in the 1972 classic, Deliverance! Who can forget his popularity in the 1974 box office champ, The Longest Yard? Additionally, many people may not be aware that his blockbuster, Smokey and the Bandit, was second only to Star Wars in box office receipts in 1977. As a teenager, I thoroughly enjoyed his comic antics in long forgotten films, like White Lightning and Gator. What went wrong? How did this box office king fall from the top of the heap to become a financially embattled star of yesteryear? Many have blamed his questionable choices over the years, especially misguided decisions, such as rejecting the lead in Terms of Endearment,

a role that eventually went to Jack Nicholson and earned him an Oscar. Others cite his poor script choices evidenced by films like Cannonball Run I & II (insert eye roll here). Even a 1997 Oscar nomination for the controversial Boogie Nights failed to reignite his career. In contrast, three movie stars – Clint Eastwood, Meryl Streep and Tom Cruise – have reminded us that, unlike Burt Reynolds, it is possible to sustain a long and flourishing career.

Clint Eastwood

Interestingly, Clint Eastwood’s career ignited around the same timeline as Burt Reynolds’ movie stardom, back in the 1960s. Both Eastwood and Reynolds gained quick popularity in the Western genre – Reynolds with Sam Whiskey and Eastwood with the Man with No Name series (eg. A Fistful of Dollars, For a Few Dollars More); however, as both of their careers progressed, Eastwood distinguished himself, not only for his savvy script choices but also for his masterful abilities as a producer and director. While Reynolds remained in safe territory with tongue-incheek, good ole boy actioners like Gator, Eastwood emerged over the years as a

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respected and celebrated film maker, starting with the 1971 thriller, Play Misty for Me, all the way to present day box office and award winning films like American Sniper.

Meryl Streep

From her impressive debut in the 1977 Oscar winner, Julia, to becoming the iconic and awarded actress of today, Meryl Streep has forged a career like none other. Many actresses fall victim to ageism in Hollywood in their 30s and 40s. Meryl Streep’s career continues to flourish in her 60s. From lighthearted comedy (She Devil) to wrenching dramas (Sophie’s Choice) to beloved musicals (Mamma Mia!) to tough-gal action flicks (The River Wild), Meryl Streep unquestionably can do it all. Sadly, Burt Reynolds’ sodden career has hindered him from serving as one of Meryl’s leading men, while Clint Eastwood masterfully starred with her in the hit film, The Bridges of Madison County, and Tom Cruise shared the spotlight with her (less successfully) in the anti-war drama, Lions for Lambs.

Ten to See: Clint Eastwood Where Eagles Dare (1968) Play Misty for Me (1971) Dirty Harry (1971) The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976) Unforgiven (1992) The Bridges of Madison County (1995) Mystic River (2003) Million Dollar Baby (2004) Changeling (2008 – director only) American Sniper (2014 – director only)

Ten to See: Meryl Streep The Deer Hunter (1978) Manhattan (1979) Kramer v. Kramer (1979) Sophie’s Choice (1982) Out of Africa (1985) Postcards from the Edge (1990) One True Thing (1998) Mamma Mia! (2008) Doubt (2008) The Iron Lady (2011)

Tom Cruise

From his on-screen blast-off in 1983’s Risky Business, Tom Cruise has “cruised” from one blockbuster to another. Unfortunately, it seems that his days of Oscar-worthy performances are behind him. Who can ever forget his galvanizing Oscarnominated performance in Born on the Fourth of July (1989) or his courageous and cheeky JAG attorney in A Few Good Men (1992)? Nevertheless, he remains a durable action star whose name on the marquee frequently leads to box office gold with films like the Mission: Impossible series and Jack Reacher. Unlike Reynolds, Cruise has demonstrated wise choices in a variety of roles that have served to sustain his rollercoaster career. Cruise does share some similarities with Reynolds in that both men have had their share of tumultuous events in their personal lives that have impacted their films and popularity over the years.

Ten to See: Tom Cruise Rain Man (1988) Born on the Fourth of July (1989) A Few Good Men (1992) Jerry Maguire (1996) Minority Report (2002) The Last Samurai (2003) War of the Worlds (2005) Mission: Impossible III, IV, V (2006-2015) Rock of Ages (2012) Edge of Tomorrow (2014)

O Burt, you demonstrated such promise in your early career. Your box office rival, Clint Eastwood, has managed to keep a sparkling career even into his 80s. Many filmgoers are eagerly anticipating his 2016 release, Sully, starring Tom Hanks as Sully Sullenberger, the pilot responsible for the “Miracle on the Hudson.” Indeed, a career like Burt Reynolds’– from the red carpet to financial red ink and near obscurity – is all part of the drama and disappointment of Hollywood yesterday and today.

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Ten to See: Burt Reynolds Deliverance (1972) White Lightning (1973) The Longest Yard (1974) Gator (1976) Smokey and the Bandit (1977) Semi-Tough (1977) Hooper (1978) The End (1978) Starting Over (1979) Sharky’s Machine (1981)

The Gamer's Top 5 Once a year, the gaming world slows down and news is scarce. In the traditional news world, this is known as a “dead week,” a time when usually active businesses are – for the most part – closed for the holidays. In the world of video games, this is a time to reflect, noting some of the big announce-

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (PlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One) Developed by: CD Projekt RED There were few roleplaying games released in 2015, but that didn’t stop CD Projekt RED from creating what may be one of the best in the history of the genre: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Upon release, the title suffered from a number of technical glitches, which have since been fixed. In addition, many critics and players complained that The Witcher 3 has an extremely sparse plot. Sometimes-stiff characters that did little to improve the situation didn’t help this problem. These slights were put to bed by The Witcher 3’s exceedingly unique host of features. There are very few RPG-oriented titles that can truly match The Witcher 3 when it comes to combat – this includes games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Dragon Age: Inquisition, which are household names in the RPG sector. The title also has one of the most expansive, sprawling and beautiful worlds of any game; you can explore for days upon days, still discovering new locations. These facets push The Witcher 3 into a pantheon of titles that will be remembered for years to come.

ments of the past year and, perhaps more importantly, name our favorite titles. I will honor that tradition during this month’s dead week with a list of my own personal favorite games, though I have included games that are undeniably worthy of recognition.

Star Wars: Battlefront (PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC) Developed by: EA Dice Star Wars: Battlefront is most certainly the title I have played the most during 2015. It’s an onlineonly – for the most part – mess that has a number of frustrating, unfixable problems, but despite those issues, I still love it. The good things I have to say about Battlefront vastly outweigh the problems. This Star Wars-centric title features massive, chaotic and disorienting 40-player battles. Although I have played games that had even larger numbers of players, none have achieved the fluidity of Battlefront’s impeccable and unexpectedly fun squalor. Battlefront retains an emotional quality that made the original games in the franchise so great; each player is simply a cog in the machine, working towards a common goal with compatriots. Although the game takes place many years into the future, it feels more grounded than some realitybased franchises, such as Call of Duty, because an individual player can only take a few hits of enemy fire before going down. Most importantly, Battlefront has provided an experience that I can share with my sister Kate – who is something of an on-again, offagain gamer. Cue the tears.

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Super Mario Maker (Wii U) Developed by: Nintendo Among the games released in 2015, Super Mario Maker strikes the most perfect balance of creativity and commercialization. Nintendo continually hocks their Mario-centric games at players, and while that’s fine, the repetitive process can sometimes feel a bit forced. Super Mario Maker has completely shaken the feel of more recent Nintendo productions, offering players a one-of-a-kind experience. Gamers who boot up this title are gifted the ability to produce their own Mario levels, utilizing many of the same tools that are usually unique to Nintendo’s firstparty studios. Currently, there are a few players in the Mario Maker community who create insanely difficult levels. Eventually, the levels are beaten and their makers are prompted to innovate even further, building increasingly dastardly creations. It’s an entertaining process to watch, but unless you’re a prodigy, I’d stick to some of the easier stuff, as these levels are ones that many of us will likely never come close to conquering. Lucky for you and me, there are plenty of easier, fun levels that the massive base of Mario Maker players have created – enough to keep us entertained for months on end.

Fallout 4 (PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC) Developed by: Bethesda Softworks By most accounts, Fallout 4 is a shoe-in candidate for Game of the Year. The title is rife with all sorts of amazing content and characters, featuring a stellar world for players to traverse. There’s almost nothing bad to be said about Fallout 4. Sure, the title relies on some pretty conventional RPG elements, but this hasn’t seemed to produce any uncertainty about its quality. Upon release, Fallout 4 broke a number of different sales records, cementing the title’s status as one of the biggest video game releases of all-time. It’s also worth noting that the game’s developer, Bethesda Softworks, only produces one game every couple of years. Fallout 4 comes from the same background as franchises that include The Elder Scrolls and Dishonored, so you know there’s a pedigree among the staffers at Bethesda that’s difficult to match. If all that is true, why isn’t Fallout 4 taking the number one spot? As amazing as Fallout 4 is, the game doesn’t do anything particularly innovative. Fallout 4 does what it aims to do with a fury like few other games ever published before, but it leaves players feeling that it could have been so much more. This sordid realization seems to emanate from each irradiated environment experienced in play.

Game of the Year - The Order: 1886 (PlayStation 4) Developed by: Ready at Dawn Studios I know that my choice for Game of the Year could be an unpopular one, but I chose Ready at Dawn’s The Order as my number one pick. The Order is set in a bleak but extremely enveloping world, filled with inordinate innovative technique. Chief among this game’s genre-pushing achievements is its dedication to storytelling. The Order seems almost like a movie at times, utilizing the nextgeneration technology of Sony’s PlayStation 4 to produce visuals that are nearly unmatched in the realm of console gaming. In an earlier column, I wrote about The Order’s overreliance on the use of quick time events, which are essentially onscreen prompts that play out a scene when certain buttons on the controller are depressed at the correct time. The overzealous use of this tool is indeed a problem – and it’s one that pushed The Order to the forefront of the gaming press for nearly two long months. That said, now that I’ve spent more time with The Order, I think the title has been crucified without due process. The Order is the only game I felt obsessively compelled to finish, which for me is the true hallmark of an unforgettable adventure. My biggest gaming-oriented wish for 2016 is that we see a continuation of this fledgling franchise. I believe that if we give Ready at Dawn and The Order a second chance at excellence, they’ll deliver in leaps and bounds.

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Jacob Saylor

THE GAMER Video games journalist

Jacob Saylor

has covered the massive

Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) in Los Angeles. Follow Jacob on Twitter @skulldrey.

Practicing what they preach Personal priorities include daily exercise, eating right How do healthcare providers practice what they preach when it comes to health and fitness? Ivy Creek Healthcare’s Brandy Laurenzi and Katie Hartzog make healthy choices and exercise a priority in their daily routines.

happy place (laughs). I also enjoy bow hunting with my husband and watching NFL and college football. We also enjoy spending family time on the lake.

Laurenzi is a CRNP at River Region Family Medicine. She joined the practice in April of 2013 and works alongside Dr. Martin “Rocky” Lyons. She also serves as Medical Director for the STAR program. She can be contacted at 334-567-3309.

What triggered your passion for fitness? Well, fitness has always been a big part of my life. I played sports growing up and continued team sports into college. As an adult, I stay active and incorporate fitness in my daily life. It’s important to me to be a positive role model to my kids and to motivate my patients.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? My family and I really enjoy traveling together. We go to the beach every chance we get. That’s my

You mentioned that you played team sports growing up. So what type of activities do you practice now?

Brandy Laurenzi finds that running helps her stay in shape and relieve stress

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I run regularly. I have participated in triathlons, and I also do 5Ks and mud runs. My 10-year-old daughter started running 5Ks with me two years ago, and my 6-yearold son finished his first 5K in October and finished before me! How many days a week do you exercise and how long is a normal workout for you? It depends on my schedule, as well as my husband’s and kids’ schedules, but I manage at least three to five workouts a week. My workouts can be anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and are usually combinations of running, plyometric exercises and high intensity interval training (HIIT).

about myself. It really helps keep my mind right. How much of a role does nutrition play in your family’s lifestyle? It’s huge! We are very big on lean meats and vegetables in my home. We avoid overly processed foods as much as possible. It’s so important for my husband and me to eat healthy because we both have family histories of heart disease and diabetes.

What’s your advice for someone who is ready for a healthy lifestyle change? Keep it simple. Stop eating fried, greasy foods. Start baking your meats and eat more vegetables. As far as exercise, I like the basics, like walking. Brandy Laurenzi I would say, a person can just walk up How does fitand down the driveway to get the heart rate ness factor into your medical practice? up. Basically, people who are overweight Fitness can sometimes eliminate the need need to move their bodies more. Start at 15 for medications, just with healthy eating minutes and increase your time each week. and regular exercise. When it comes to my People try to over complicate diet and exerpatients, fitness can motivate them to avoid cise, but it’s really simple. The simpler the medications or eliminate the need for them regimen, the more compliant people will be. altogether by losing weight and staying healthy. For example, heart disease and Katie Hartzog, a clinical dietician and longsmoking are directly related, so I try to get term healthcare consultant, sees patients at patients who smoke to start exercising to Alabama Wellness and Prevention Centers in take their minds of smoking. Wetumpka, Dadeville and Georgiana and can be reached at 844-382-7712. What personal benefits have you had from regular exercise? When did you begin to make fitness a For me it’s a de-stressor and can also boost self-esteem. Working out motivates me priority? Although my dad was a football player and helps me be more productive at home and at work. Overall, it makes me feel better when I was growing up, I didn’t play sports.

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Candice Briggs

COMMUNITY CARE Candice Briggs is

assistant

manager at

River Region Family Medicine with Ivy Creek Healthcare

In high school, I began to think maybe I was missing out when I overheard others talking about soccer. So I started track and cross-country. The comradery from team sports led me to really enjoy the challenge that comes with running. There is a satisfaction that I get from finishing something so hard. Really, the more I ran, the better I felt. What kind of fitness activities do you practice nowadays? Well, I had ankle surgery so right now I can’t run. In the last few years, I’ve been re-learning what my body will allow. I’ve gotten into swimming, biking, yoga and Pilates because they are gentle on my joints. Even so, I still find a new area of challenge mentally and with my flexibility in those exercises. You’re in great shape. How often do you work out? I try for every day. My yellow lab puppies require a daily walk, so that’s at least a 30-minute walk. I also do something like elliptical, biking or yoga for at least 20 minutes daily. My rule of thumb is 20 minutes a day. If I can get to 20 minutes, I normally go over that amount.

lay out my clothes to keep me reminded of my goal. I tell people to keep workout clothes or even walking shoes with them. At the end of the day, you may be able to fit in a walk. Be prepared and schedule your fitness. What role does nutrition play in a healthy lifestyle? When it comes to nutrition, it doesn’t have to be confusing and hard. Good science teaches us so many different theories. Perfect nutrition is not necessary; so don’t feel bad if you don’t eat perfectly. Women are especially prone to feeling like they have to be perfect. Focus on small steps, like more fruit and veggies. Eat out less and take time to enjoy food without electronics and distractions. Eat food the way God made it, with as little processing as possible. Just know you don’t have to eat perfect to have good nutrition.

What advice would you give someone who doesn’t know where to start becoming healthier? Start off with five minutes and build up! See a doctor first, always, to make sure there are no limitations to your health goals. Then see Katie Hartzog what you’re interested in. Walking is a good place to start. Do not be ashamed Is fitness a component of your medical practice? to just start somewhere. Some people respond to As a dietician, fitness goes hand in hand with gym memberships because they’re motivated by nutrition. Eating has a big impact on health. When paying membership. Some people don’t have safe it comes to weight loss, 80 percent is eating, and 20 areas to walk. I have a patient who was having difpercent is fitness. I have to look at the patient as a ficulty working out because she had children that whole. I address how they eat and their fitness. We she couldn’t leave to go to a gym. Well, she got a are not meant to be as inactive as we are, so I addance game for their gaming system and was able to dress their activity. get her fitness by dancing with her kids. When she thought about it, she said that when she was youngHow do you balance work, home and fitness? er she was thinner because she loved dancing! In For myself, finding the best time for me to purhealthcare it’s about finding out what people can do posefully work out must be scheduled. I find that something will always get in the way if I don’t. What safely that works for them … and then encouraging them to go further. works for me is to work out in the morning, even though I really want to stay in bed sometimes. I also

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OUT & ABOUT

Wetumpka New Year's Celebration December 31, 2015 Wetumpka Civic Center

1. Callie Pate and Chandler Bowen 2.Peter Garrett and Daniel Spievy 3. Scott and Michelle Angus 4. Ashley Borders and Eric and Lesly Wesenberg 5. Tucker and Tiffany Robinson and Travis and Lynn Weldon 6. Alyssa Nickols and Damien Lassiter 7. Amee Rapp, Mitch Roberson, Braxton Collins and Collin Roberson 8. Kinsley Gulledge and Josh Pate 9. Ronnie and Haden Lee, Colt Cunningham and Devin Keley

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OUT & ABOUT

National Championship Game viewing, Coaches Corner in Wetumpka January 11, 2016

1. Darlene Dodd, Teresa Skipper, Jamison Alexander 2. Keith and Ellie Holley 3. Baleigh and Travis Deep 4. Pepe and Pattie LaHue, Josh Holman 5. Chris Jones, Mike Bechard and John Dodd 6. Kaylee Glenn, Blake Walters, Jill Johnson, Rene Thompson, Sheri Dunn, Heather Godwin, Brenden Foster

Forever Wild CRATA Trail Work Day January 2, 2016 1. Laura DeSio, Charles Chambers and Roger Wolczek 2. Stephanie Renuart 3. Betsy Iler 4. John Scott and Bill Garnett 5. Jimmy Lanier and Walt Hutcheson

4 5

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Coming Up CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Millbrook Revelers Mardi Gras Festival and Parade January 30

The fun begins at 9 a.m. on the Village Green in downtown Millbrook with inflatables and rides for the kids. There will be crafts vendors, concessions and costumes. The parade starts at noon with beads, treats and prizes for the best displays.

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Jan. 23 Boyz II Men

The four-time Grammy Award winning group will perform for the first time at the Wind Creek Entertainment Center in Wetumpka. Boyz II Men also holds nine American Music Awards and nine Soul Trail Awards. Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com for the 8 p.m. concert.

Jan. 23 Prattville Mardi Gras Celebration and Parade

The celebration begins at 11 a.m. followed by the parade through downtown Prattville at 2 p.m.

Jan. 25 Taste of Elmore County

This annual benefit for the Elmore County Food Pantry is always a great time with family, friends and food, and it’s a huge help to an organization that feeds 520 needy families every month. Purchase tickets at the food pantry at 515 W Boundary St., Wetumpka, and join the fun from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Call 334567-3232 for information.

the water to catch the biggest fish. For information, visit www.bassmaster.com.

Feb. 6 Order of Cimarron Mardi Gras

Vendors open at 9 a.m. in Gold Star Park downtown Wetumpka for a fun-filled celebration. The parade from West Bridge Street onto South Main will begin at 1 p.m.

Feb. 6 7th Annual Millbrook Mardi Gras Run

Jan. 30 Paint the Park for Jody

The race begins at 9 a.m. in Gold Star Park, Wetumpka. Race day registration and packet pickup starts at 7:30 a.m. Entry fee is $40 per person, which benefits the Jody Marie Sanford Memorial Scholarship Fund. See page 14 for details or call 334-685-3525 or 3340430-6627 for information.

Feb. 6 Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Southern Regional

The tournament fishing season kicks off at first light on Lake Martin as some of the best collegiate anglers hit

There will be 5K, 8K and 1-mile runs (or walks) at Grandview YMCA. “Phantom” non-runners can also participate. Includes inflatables and games. Every pre-registered participant will recieve a T-shirt and be entered in a proze drawing. For more information, call 334-285-4114.

Feb. 9 Wetumpka Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Dinner

The Roaring 20s come back with style at this year’s annual meeting and reception from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Call 334-567-4811 for information.

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Feb. 11-14, 18-21 and 25-27 Steel Magnolias

Wetumpka Depot Plyers kicks off the 2016 season with Robert Harling’s Southern classic, Steel Magnolias. This award-winning play gathers six women at Truvy’s Beauty Spot as they love and laugh through the magical and tragic story of one of their own. Tickets are $15, and evening shows begin at 7 p.m. with matinees at 2 p.m. Purchase tickets online at www.wetumpkadepot.com.

Feb. 12 Art Reception

An art reception to celebrate the concurrent exhibits - Abandoned Rural America and The Land: God’s Gift - begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery, 408 S. Main St., Wetumpka (second floor of the City Administration Building).

Feb. 18 19th Annual Hunting Heritage Dinner

What you might not know about Steel Magnolias The play, written in by Robert Harling and premiered in 1987, is based on a true story. Harling wrote it as a way to cope with the death of his sister, Susan, who died from complications of diabetes in 1985. The play was an instant success. It opened off-Broadway in March of 1987 in New York’s WPA Theatre and was one of the top-grossing films of 1989. Filmed in Harling’s hometown of Natchitoches, the same medical personnel who attended Susan played those roles in the movie. The nurse who turned off life support systems for actress Julia Roberts’ Shelby was the same one who did that for Susan. Townspeople also played the townspeople in the wedding and Christmas festival scenes. A host of big names are reputed to have wanted roles in Steel Magnolias. Think of Bette Davis as Ouiser; Meg Ryan or Winona Ryder as Shelby. Harling chose Roberts in the role of his sister because her smile reminded him of Susan.

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat dinner of ribs and chicken at 6 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center to support the Elmore County Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation. There will be silent and live auctions, raffles and other activities, including 19 gun giveaways. For tickets and information, call Gene Calhoun at 334-315-2636 or Phil Savage at 334-850-7997.

Feb. 18-21 & 25-28 Lil’ Abner

The Millbrook Community Players present a fun-filled musical comedy based on the classic comic strip. Trouble begins in the cornseed town of Dogpatch, USA when the government decides to wipe it off the map. Hilarious protests and a riotous Sadie Hawkins Day chase ensue. Li’l Abner is packed with one showstopping dance after another! Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27 and 2 p.m. on Feb. 21 and 28. For more information or to purchase tickets online, visit www.millbrooktheater.com.

Feb. 20 Getting Down with the Dawgs Drawdown

A $100 ticket gives you a ine-in-300 chance to win $10,000. It also buys you dinner and door prize opportunities, as well as a great time with friends supporting a worthy cause - the Elmore County Humane Society. Cash bar will be available. Event begins at 5 p.m. at the Wind Creek Wetumpka Entertainment Center. Tickets now on sale at the shelter located at 255 Central Plank Road, Wetumpka. Call 334-567-3377 for information.

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March 8 Camp 1921 String Band Live Music of the Old South

Preserving the rich history of Southern Appalachian music and cultural history of the Deep South, the Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 1921 of Tallassee will perform at 7 p.m. at the Tallassee High School Auditorium. Tickets are $10 for adults; $5 for students. For information, call Mona Mills at Mona Mills at 334-201-4892.

Season-Long Events Electronics Recycling

On the first Saturday of each month, electronic items for recycling are accepted at the Wetumpka Recycling Center on East Charles Avenue. There is a $10 fee to recycle tube televisions; other electronics incur no charge. Come from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other accepted electronics include computers, monitors, cell phones, chargers, modems, remotes, printers, batteries and more.

Blue Grass Jam, Sit and Scrap and Sit and Sew

All three activities are held on the first Saturday of each month from 9 am. to 12 p.m. at the Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka. All acoustic instruments and skill levels are welcome at the Bluegrass Jam. Scrappers and papercrafters are encouraged to attend Sit and Scrap. All sewers and knitters are welcome at Sit and Sew. For complete details, call 334-578-9485 or visit www.arrac.org.

Santuck Flea Market

The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month at 73300 Central Plank Road, Highway 9 in Wetumpka.

Children’s Harbor Thrift Store

Located at Children’s Harbor at Lake Martin on Highway 63, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children's Hospital. Call 334-8572008 for information.

Master Gardeners Lunch and Learn

Bring lunch to the Elmore County Extension Office in Wetumpka at noon the second Tuesday of each month for a gardening presentation hosted by the Central Alabama Master Gardeners Association. Event is free and open to the public. Drinks provided. For information, call 334-5676301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

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Business & Service Directory

First Community Mortgage NMLS #460892

New donations arriving daily! Buy-1-Get-1 and Buy-1-Get-2 deals on Winter clothing

The Humane Society Of Elmore County

255 Central Plank Road • Wetumpka, AL 334-567-3377 hselco@bellsouth.net

Pick up Elmore County Living at these locations: Eclectic

Eclectic Town Hall Moose's Eclectic Library Johnson’s Furniture Tropical Tan Zone First Community Bank

Lake Martin

Russell Lands Russell Marine Nail’s Cotton’s BBQ

Millbrook

Verizon Wireless First Community Bank Lucretia Cauthen Realty Bliss Salon Millbrook Chamber of Commerce Realty Central Stone & Britt Law Gene Jones Insurance

Montgomery

Publix – Atlanta Highway

Wetumpka

Publix – Zelda Rd Publix - Vaughn Rd Publix - Taylor Rd

Prattville

Publix – Cobbs Ford Road

Slapout

Lake Pharmacy The Golden Frog The Boy’s Store First Community Bank

Tallassee

Kent Eagle Y Petro Parker Tire RoadRunner Herron Hill Pharmacy Friendship Grocery The Apothecary Community Hospital Tallassee Health & Rehab 5 Points Store Ben Atkinson Motors

Bennett’s Archery First Community Bank Russell Do It Center Bumper’s Karen’s Mane Tamers River Ridge Steakhouse Emerald Mountain Store Redland Market Seivers Accounting Wetumpka Depot Players A Touch of Class Angel Locksmith Verizon Wireless Unplugged Must Stop Café Alfa Realty Wetumpka Century 21 Brandt Wright Realty Wachovia Bank BB&T Jackson Thornton Lee’s Auto Repair Southeastern Business Printers Hankins Insurance Hog Rock BBQ Wetumpka YMCA

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Adams Drugs Bell Chiropractic Wetumpka Urgent Care Aliant Bank A Beautiful Creation Austin’s Flowers Camo Country Alabama State Employees Credit Union Smokin S BBQ Elmore Community Hospital Wetumpka Preschool Wetumpka City Library Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce City of Wetumpka Administration Bldg. Coosa River Adventures Stoddard’s Bait Shop Collier Ford The Prissy Hen Wee Ones Daycare Wetumpka Health & Rehab Canal Grocery Kim’s Corner

Our Advertisers â&#x20AC;˘ To Join, Call 334-567-7811 Alabama State Employee Credit Union.............................................................................7 Collier Ford...................................................................................................................................5 Community Hospital................................................................................................................3 Elmore County Hospital..........................................................................................................7 First Community Mortgage.................................................................................................5 2 Granger Thaggard Auction..................................................................................................1 9 Holley's Home Furnishings..................................................................................................5 6 Jackson Thornton......................................................................................................................2 Karen's Mane Tamers.............................................................................................................5 2 Kowaliga Whole Health.........................................................................................................5 2 Lake Martin Hospice........................................................................................................................ 1 9 Mark's Service Center & Body Shop, Inc.......................................................................................... 7 SkateZone 2000.......................................................................................................................................1 9 Tallassee Chamber of Commerce...................................................................................................... 5 Tallassee Health & Rehab, LLC.............................................................................................1 9 The Gab.......................................................................................................................................5 2 The Humane Society of Elmore County..........................................................................5 2

Don't see your ad in this issue of Elmore County Living? Neither did the thousands of potential customers who read our magazine monthly. To advertise please contact Jayne Carr At 334-567-7811 or stop by our office located at 300 Green Street, Wetumpka AL 36092

Wetumpka Depot Players.......................................................................................................2 Wetumpka Health & Rehabilitation LLC............................................................................5

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Fire and Ice

Clean up and clean out M.K. Moore

SOUTHERN DELIGHTS Mary Katherine Moore is an Alabama State Fair pepper jelly

champion, has butchered a wild hog in

her kitchen and grows

heirloom to-

matoes in her backyard.

The tree is down. The parties are over, and it’s time to tackle fire and ice: Clean up the oven and clean out the freezer. Not the most fun activities, but ones that have to be done. And it is not like you have any caroling to do. If you have had a busy holiday season and have done lots of cooking, your stove needs a once over. Mine sure does! I approach this like I’m detailing a car. Gather rags, toothpicks, cotton swabs and any little implements that will get into all the crevices. An eraser sponge comes in handy, too. For cleaning solution, I use a little strong degreaser and a lot of elbow grease. Put on some good music and get to scrubbing! Start by taking it all apart. If you have an electric stove, please unplug it. Run a tub of hot water and throw in a splash of degreasing cleaner, making sure no kiddies or animals can get to it. Take apart the eyes of the stove top and set them to soaking in the hot water and cleaner. Soaking won’t clean them, but it will loosen the gunk. I run them through the dishwasher after a nice long rest in the tub. For those of you with gas stoves, scrub the grates with a little salt, rinse in super-hot water and leave them to air dry. Spray a little degreaser and start wiping up spills and stains. If you run across a little burnedon place, whip out your eraser sponge and give the spot a quick buff, but don’t get so carried away that you scratch your finish. Wipe everything. Take the knobs off and wipe around them. You will be surprised at what lurks behind those knobs. Use toothpicks to really get into those tight spots. Once you have de-gunked everything, wipe it all down with a clean rag and, to shine up your stainless, use a little window cleaner. Wipe out the oven with water; you will probably want to use an oven cleaner on it, so you don’t want any weird chemical reactions. Follow the directions on the oven cleaner. Or set that handy self-cleaning function on the oven. I love self-cleaning. The oven heats up to the temperature of the surface of the sun, which makes the kitchen nice and toasty. Perfect for diving into the freezer.

I’m a freezer hoarder. I will stick just about anything in the freezer. Knob of ginger? Yes. Blobs of tomato paste leftover from the whole can I opened to use one tablespoon? Yes. Frozen fish that wasn’t really good, so we never ate the rest of the pack? Yes. Green popsicles from when I was sick six months ago? Yes. I don’t like the green ones. Why I don’t throw them away as soon as I open the package is beyond me. Start by throwing things out. If you come across something with no label: Out. If something has frost covering it: Out. That frost inside or outside a package is a death sentence to whatever is inside. That freezer-burn flavor will taint anything. Whatever is in the package will not be helped by sauce or seasoning. Chuck it. Once you have made that first pass, take a long look at what you have left. Is it more than one year old? Out. Really. If you haven’t eaten that plastic container of camp stew bought from the local football team BBQ fundraiser, you are not ever going to eat it. Neither will you eat the half a pack of hash browns from which you made a casserole last Easter. Same with the green popsicles. Stick everything you are keeping into a cooler. Put the lid on and don’t open it. Oh, and move it away from the oven! Now look at that bottom shelf and probably the door bins, too. Bet there are few spills that need attention. Since you haven’t turned off the icebox, water is not going to cut it as a cleaner. And you don’t want to use any heavy-duty chemicals. So here is what you do. Mix a cup of water, one drop of dishwashing liquid and three tablespoons of alcohol. Rubbing alcohol is best, but I’ve used vodka. At this point, you are almost home free, so mix up a drink too. Wet a paper towel with the soap mix and rub out all those frozen sticky stains. Sip and scrub; sip and scrub. Before you know it, you’ll be done! Put your keepers back in the freezer in an orderly fashion. Warm your hands over the still blazing oven and admire your handiwork, knowing that for another year, the kitchen equipment is all clean and fresh for another year!

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