From the Editor’s Desk Lake Martin Living
While we may still be in the heart of the winter season, we are fortunate to live in a community where there are so many heartwarming stories and opportunities to liven things up this time of year. From celebrating Black History Month to Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras around the corner, February is looking to be an entertaining month.
This issue starts off featuring Dadeville’s Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe, a wine experience unlike any other. Owned by Annie Lee, a flight attendant and wine enthusiast, locals are introduced to the world of fine vintages at her vibrant and unique store. If you are looking for a spot to enjoy before your Valentine’s Day reservations or simply expand on your wine knowledge, Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe makes for the perfect date night location. Read more about it on page 10.
To build on the season of love and compassion, dive into our story about the heartwarming Pop Up Prom Shop initiative that is bringing prom dreams to life for many young women in our community’s local high schools on page 20.
Alexander City is also shaking things up with The Local at 41 Main’s interactive cocktail classes. Led by local mixologist Crayton Walton, participants are treated to a hands-on creative cocktail experience while learning the fascinating history behind each drink. The upcoming class will feature a fun twist on Mardi Gras that you won’t want to miss. Read about the cocktail classes on Page 14.
In last month’s issue, the theme of my Editor’s Letter was encouraging everyone to try something new this year, and I have just the day trip in store for you. I recently had the opportunity to visit the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama, and personally, it was one of the most transformative experiences of my lifetime.
The museum is a visually impactful and immersive experience, sparking a sea of emotions for visitors through its heartfelt storytelling, larger-than-life structures and interactive sites. Each turn holds a new experience as you walk through 400 years of American history, delving deep into the culture behind enslavement and the impact it has on today’s culture. Read more about the three different Legacy Sites and how to plan your trip on page 30.
To finish off the month of February, be sure to add the Russell Forest Run to your calendar. Lacey Howell dives into tips and helpful insights for training for the run in this month’s Culture Shock column.
There is so much to love about our community, and I hope that this month’s issue warms your hearts as we patiently wait for the spring weather to arrive and warm up our days.
Chairman
Kenneth Boone
General Manager
Tippy Hunter
Editor-in-Chief
Betsy Iler
Editor Shaylee Beck Moore
Creative Services
Audra Spears
Business & Digital Development Director Angela Mullins
Contributors
Kenneth Boone
Lacey Howell
Shane Harris
George Miranda
Lee Williams
Gina Abernathy
Audra Spears
Cliff Williams
Abigail Murphy
Samuel Higgs
Melody Rathel
Lizi Arbogast Gwin
Austin Elliott
Kyle Marable
Audience Development Director
Baily Terry
Marketing/Advertising Sales
Renee Trice
Samantha Himes
Erin Vickers
Carmen Rodgers
Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999
Alexander City, AL 35011
256-234-4281
www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving
Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.
Certified mixologist Crayton Walton shakes things up in downtown Alexander City, bringing his passion for craft cocktails and extensive knowledge of history to life through his interactive cocktail class experiences.
Photo by Audra Spears
FEATURES
14. THE LOCAL AT 41 MAIN COCKTAIL CLASSES
The Local at 41 Main brings a new, interactive experience to town that delves into creative cocktails and the fascinating history behind them
20 POP UP PROM SHOP
Driven by a growing need in the community, one Alexander City resident helps make dreams come true for young women through her inspiring prom dress project
30. MONTGOMERY'S LEGACY MUSEUM
Plan an unforgettable and immersive experience with a day trip to the historical Legacy Museum
IN EVERY ISSUE
Kiwanis hosts 600 people for a record pancake breakfast
Sometimes giving back to your community is as easy as enjoying a pancake breakfast.
Every year, the Alexander City Kiwanis Club hosts a pancake breakfast to raise money for the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation.
This year was a little different, however.
“It was the largest pancake breakfast Kiwanis has ever put on,” Kiwanis president Mike Lucas said.
Lucas said nearly 1,000 tickets were sold and more than 600 people attended the breakfast.
While the club saw its largest turnout as far as attendance, it also broke a club record for its volunteers. Students, parents and teachers from various school organizations assisted Kiwanis members with the event.
“We had a lot of help from students, parents and teachers,” Lucas said. “We also had a big turnout of our Kiwanis members, which was good. They showed up and showed out.”
Lucas said there were roughly 90 volunteers throughout the entirety of the event.
The ACSEF provides educational experiences such as field trips, cultural activities and supplies to students and teachers of the Alexander City Schools system.
“On behalf of the Alexander City Schools, we would like to thank so many people for one of the most successful January Saturday mornings we have seen in quite a while,” ACS superintendent Dr. Jose Reyes wrote on Facebook. “The Pancake Breakfast was a success because of the efforts of so many groups and individuals. From the Kiwanis Club, to the ACSEF to our student volunteers, to our corporate sponsors, it was another testament to how much the people care about our school system. I know I speak for all of our faculty, staff and students in expressing our gratitude for the support we receive from our community.”
~Melody Rathel
Reeltown Elementary School educators awarded Teacher, Support Staff of the Year
Two of Reeltown Elementary School’s educators were recently awarded Teacher and Support Staff of the Year for the work they put into the classroom each day.
First grade teacher Brandy Sheppard has been at RES for the past six years.
Sheppard has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in math.
She said the main challenge of having a variety of personalities and learning styles in the classroom is making sure students’ needs are met.
“The most rewarding part is when they get the skill that you are teaching and have strategies to grow in that skill, whether it’s in math or reading, and you actually see that come together,” Sheppard said.
While Sheppard puts a lot of work into making learning fun, she didn’t expect to receive Teacher of the Year.
“I was honored and humbled that my colleagues felt that way about me,” Sheppard said.
Jadie Hood, instructional assistant and special education
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paraprofessional, has been at RES for the past five years.
“A week before my youngest started to go into kindergarten I got a phone call from the school that said, ‘Hey, we need a position filled and we would love to have you here,’” Hood said. “I have been here ever since and I love it.”
Hood said one of the most rewarding parts of her job is seeing the students make accomplishments, especially since most of the students she works with have different challenges compared to the average student.
As a paraprofessional, Hood is in and out of classrooms across the school. During Hood’s first year at RES she was put into Sheppard’s classroom to help a student and was able to see first-hand Sheppard's talent for teaching. Hood was honored to be recognized alongside Sheppard.
“I was really surprised; I had no idea whatsoever,” Hood said. “It’s really nice to be recognized this way, but I don’t do it for the recognition, I do it because I love my job.”
Stay connected:
~ Abigail Murphy
Scan the QR code to visit our website.
YUM!
Alexander City Kiwanis Club members Andrew Williams, left, and Scott Blake prepare pancakes for guests.
Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe
STORY & PHOTOS BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE
Let your imagination take flight at Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe, where a curated selection of fine wines, champagnes and unique tasting experiences invite guests to unwind and explore the world of fine vintages.
Annie Lee, 42, was inspired to open Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe after returning to the Lake Martin area during the pandemic, combining her vast experience in aviation with her growing love for wine to create a welcoming space for local enthusiasts and novices alike.
As a bilingual flight attendant for eight years, Lee had the rare opportunity to travel the world and immerse herself in the wine culture of renowned regions such as Argentina, Chile and France.
Her passion for wine continued to deepen after meeting two individuals whose knowledge and enthusiasm inspired Lee to explore the world of wine more seriously.
“I always tell people I am a wine enthusiast,” said Lee. “I have always enjoyed wine. I was on a flight with two attendants from Paris, and they were both taking their level three sommelier test. I was able to spend a layover with them at a vineyard, and we had a conversation about what they were learning in class. It was fascinating to me.”
Lee initially set her sights on furthering her wine education and becoming a sommelier; however, when a storefront space became available in Dadeville, Lee felt a stronger calling to open a shop and share her passion with the local community.
Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe opened its doors in Dadeville in November 2023 with an outpouring of community support. Named after her dog, Lucky, Lee also incorporated sentimental memories and her aviation background into the store’s concept.
Lee’s vision for the establishment was to create an outlet where guests of all backgrounds could relax, socialize and explore the culture of wine.
“The number one thing I hear from our customers is that they feel welcomed and invited here,” said Lee. “And that resonates with them. Locals feel comfortable coming in here by themselves or bringing their out-of-town guests.”
Set in a chic speakeasy-style ambiance, the wine shop’s vibrant and creative décor perfectly mirrors Lee’s bubbly personality. Plush, bright pink crescent-moon chairs and a velvet green couch invite guests to relax in a cozy lounge area, while black marble high-top tables and gold accents add an elegant, sophisticated touch throughout the space.
“It’s cozy and homey, but at the same time, it’s a little fancy and bougie around here,” said Lee.
Aviation memorabilia and décor are also thoughtfully incorporated throughout the space, honoring Lee’s background as a flight attendant, as well as her father, a former pilot for the United States Navy and commercial airlines.
One of the signature features of the shop is a rope swing suspended from the ceiling, illuminated by a neon sign that
First Class Experience
Facing Page: Lucky Flight
Bottle Shoppe offers a unique wine tasting experience; Top: Vibrant colors and aviation décor create a welcoming atmosphere; Left: Annie Lee enjoys serving guests from 10,000 feet in the air in addition to her Dadeville store.
reads, “Let your dreams take flight.” This striking centerpiece creates the perfect backdrop for Instagramworthy photos.
Beyond the eye-catching décor, Lucky Flight offers an array of wines to suit every palate. The shop carries more than 200 different labels, including a variety of cabernets, pinot noirs and popular blends, such as Angels and Cowboys and Dave Phinney’s Mercury Head.
One of Lee’s favorite selections is a specialty champagne from Ruinart, the oldest Champagne house in France since 1729.
“Ruinart is my absolute favorite,” said Lee. “This was the first bottle I wanted in this store. I tell people this is for your special occasions and when you really want something good.”
For those who are new to the wine culture or simply looking to expand their palates, Lucky Flight offers a unique trybefore-you-buy experience with wine-dispensing machines, an innovative experience that allows guests to sample a variety of flavors by purchasing drink quantities ranging from small tasting portions to a full glass of wine.
“The machines are much more than just a way to sample a bottle," said Lee. "They give you a chance to experience wine from different regions and allow you to expand outside of your comfort zone. The machines are a unique feature that we encourage all of our guests to try."
Lee also creates handmade charcuterie boards that feature an assortment of meats, fruits and cheeses sourced from local
Perfect Pours
Wine dispensers offer guests the opportunity to explore a variety of fine wines without committing to a full bottle.
grocery stores, providing guests with a savory accompaniment to their wine experience.
In addition to happy hour selections, Lucky Flight offers a tiered wine club for customers, creatively named Goose, Maverick and Top Gun, inspired by Lee’s favorite movie.
“I am such a big Top Gun fan,” said Lee. “I used to watch the movie with my dad. He was a Navy fighter pilot and Aviator of the Year in Vietnam. So he’s the real talk, and that was one of my favorite movies growing up. We, of course, referenced it a lot.”
Wine Club members receive two to six handselected bottles of wine each month, based on the tier, along with early access to exclusive events and discounts on select wine bottles.
“I want Lucky Flight to feel like it’s the community gathering spot,” said Lee. “You have a place to hang out before your dinner reservations at Prime Steakhouse or come afterward to have a nightcap. That’s part of growing the community. That’s my goal.”
Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m during winter months and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the summer. Visit luckyflightbottleshoppe.com for more information.
Cocktail Classes The Locat at 41 Main
STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE & AUSTIN ELLIOTT
PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS
Crayton Walton is shaking things up in downtown Alexander City, bringing entertainment and a wealth of knowledge to the community through his hands-on cocktail classes at The Local at 41 Main.
While many spend a lifetime searching for their true passion, Walton, 30, discovered his love for mixology and crafting cocktails early in his career.
The Alexander City native and current owner of The Local at 41 Main began his mixology journey while working on the waitstaff at the historic Willcox Hotel in Aiken, South Carolina.
Starting out as a host and server, Walton was eager to get behind the bar, lending an extra hand to support the staff as needed. The more he observed from the bar staff, the more curious he became.
Shaking Up History
“I started being able to actually work with the liquors and learn the information that I’ve been retaining for years,” said Walton. “I always listened when they spoke because I found it fascinating how you can mix the different flavors and create just something completely unique.”
Facing Page: Walton combines history with mixology for unique cocktail class experiences; Top: The Local at 41 Main holds interactive classes once a month.
During his time at The
Willcox Hotel, Walton also had the opportunity to train at the esteemed four-star restaurant under one of the South’s most skilled mixologists, who was a protégé of the World’s Best Bartender winner eight years in a row. Under this mentorship, Walton’s skills and knowledge as a mixologist flourished.
“Mixology is actually fascinating,” said Walton. “I know a lot of people have this preconceived notion of what bartending is, but bartending is making the recipes that already exist, whereas mixology is creating the recipes that bartenders will later adapt.
“It’s almost like the difference between a cook and a chef. Really and truly, everything that you see happening behind the bar with a professional bartender has a reason for it happening.”
Upon returning to Alabama, Walton worked as a freelance bartender while receiving his formal certification to become a mixologist. He also took a job with his husband, Adam Root, at Castelluccio’s Fine Italian Dining, becoming the head bartender and designing specialty cocktails for the menu.
During this time, Walton began offering cocktail classes at Castelluccio’s as a way to set it apart from other businesses and draw customers into the establishment outside of rush hours.
“By doing the cocktail classes, we were bringing in people for something new, something this area has
never had before,” said Walton. “And I really just fell in love with it.”
When approached with the opportunity to purchase The Local at 41 Main from Jeff and Stacey Jeffcoat, Walton and Root were eager to take on the opportunity. With the recent resurgence of beautiful downtown Alexander City, it was clear to the ambitious duo that there was great potential to continue the class experience at their new establishment.
Walton now hosts his interactive cocktail classes at The Local at 41 Main, offering guests a creative and hands-on experience that blends mixology with history. Under Walton’s guidance, participants are included in the cocktail-making process, given tasks such as how to properly use a shaker and ways to perfect their pour. Students also gain insight into the fascinating origins and evolution of spirits.
Each class follows a unique theme and features four cocktails – two well-known favorites and two designed to challenge palates and introduce new flavors.
“So normally, we start with a full cocktail when you arrive to sip on through the class,” said Walton. “Then we move on to two sample-sized, more adventurous drinks before finishing with another full cocktail, normally a popular one that I feel people are really going to enjoy.”
Walton enjoys the creation process of mixology the most and has a limitless abundance of ideas of what to teach. In addition to classic cocktails, such as a Blue Hawaiian, an Old Fashioned or Alabama Slammer, Walton incorporates his own original creations into the mix, ensuring each class is both educational and exciting.
His themed series often explore different historical periods, such as the Prohibition era, where participants learn to make drinks from the 1920s onward, progressing through the decades each month.
Creative Cocktails
Top: Walton adds unique flare to his cocktails; Bottom: Mardi Gras themed classes include festive creations; Facing Page Left: Walton uses his vast knowledge of mixology to craft speciality beverages; Right: Walton demonstrates proper pour techniques.
Drawing from his extensive collection of vintage cocktail books and liquor history texts, Walton breaks down complex information into engaging, easyto-digest lessons. Whether discussing the origins of rum dating back to 13 B.C. or the cultural shifts that influenced cocktail trends, he ensures that each
class is as rich in storytelling and history as it is in flavorful beverages.
After each class is over, Walton emails his students a virtual copy of the cocktail recipes they created as a keepsake for future use.
“Really and truly, I just want to educate the people,” said Walton. “I love doing that. Plus, I truly feel that when you have people who are being educated on alcohol, such as the reason that I only put so much liquor in a drink, the more they can be aware of their own surroundings.”
Cocktail classes at The Local at 41 Main are held every third Saturday, and interested participants of legal drinking age are welcome to partake in the unique experience for $35.
To register for a class, stop by The Local at 41 Main or contact Walton on the company’s Facebook page.
POP UP Prom Shop
STORY & PHOTOS BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE
For many young women, prom is a cherished milestone – a night filled with excitement, dressing up in a beautiful gown and creating lasting memories. Yet for some, the cost of a dress can put the experience out of reach.
Pop Up Prom Shop, a heartwarming initiative created by Alexander City resident Laura Lacey, helps make prom accessible to every young woman by providing dresses, alterations and a supportive environment for students to find the perfect gown for their big night – free of charge.
“The whole reason that I started this was to help families because it can be so expensive to go to prom,” said Lacey. “A lot of the families don’t have the funds to buy the dress, to buy the ticket to prom, to buy the dinner, the transportation, all the things that come along
with it. So I wanted to help take a burden off of their shoulders.”
Pop Up Prom Shop began in 2019 when Lacey came across a social media post regarding a prom dress drive in Ozark, Alabama. Inspired by the concept, she was eager to bring the heartwarming experience to the community.
“I saw a Facebook post a long time ago, six years ago, from an acquaintance of mine that her church was doing a prom dress drive,” said Lacey. “They were collecting prom dresses, and girls were able to pick out a dress to take home. And I thought to myself, this is a great idea. We need to do this here.”
After sharing her idea with her former employer at Raymond James and receiving his enthusiastic support, Lacey hosted the inaugural Pop Up Prom Shop at First United Methodist Church in Alexander City, known as
Trinity Methodist Church at the time. That year, she gave away 30 prom dresses to young women, confirming that she was onto something special.
“It was really encouraging,” said Lacey. “I saw the need, and it’s been going on ever since.”
Pop Up Prom Shop has grown into an annual event, with Lacey hosting formal dress drives every October to gather gently used gowns in various sizes for the upcoming prom season. Additionally, monetary donations have allowed her to purchase brand-new, stylish dresses, ensuring young women have even more options to choose from each year.
In 2024, Lacey was able to expand her operation from her church into two local high schools, Benjamin Russell High School and Horseshoe Bend High School, giving students easier access to shop.
brings her initiative to three local high schools;
Young women can choose from a variety of trending fashions.
Shopping in Style
Top: Lacey
Bottom:
“I reached out to the high school counselors, and they were very ecstatic that I could come,” said Lacey. “So I set up for two days at each school and gave away 66 dresses last year.”
With the help of a dedicated team of friends and volunteers, Lacey transforms high school auditoriums into a boutique-like experience, carefully organizing
Supporting Prom Dreams Top: Classmates encourage each other throughout the shopping experience; Left: Lacey was inspired by a similar initiative on social media; Facing Page: Young woman have more than 100 dresses to choose from.
dresses on racks by color and size. During school hours, girls can browse the selection, try on gowns and even model their favorite dresses. The atmosphere is filled with excitement and encouragement as classmates cheer each other on, celebrating the perfect find together.
“The entire experience is really cool,” said Lacey. “Some of the girls will bring their girlfriends with them to shop, and they’ll all go into the dressing room to change and try on dresses. Then when they come out to model their dresses, everyone is hyping them up. It is so much fun because it’s really encouraging to see all of the positivity.”
In addition to collecting and storing donated dresses, Lacey also uses monetary contributions to purchase new gowns and cover the cost of transporting the dresses. In 2025, thanks to generous donations, Lacey was able to rent a U-Haul to help transport more than 100 dresses to local schools and bring Pop Up Prom Shop to a new location – Dadeville High School.
Lacey aims to continue expanding the initiative, ensuring even more young women have the opportunity to find their perfect gown.
“My goal is to add a school every year,” said Lacey. “I want to just continue to grow, to gather more dresses and to reach more girls.”
With an ambitious goal in mind, Lacey highlights
that her biggest need is for volunteers to assist with loading and unloading the dresses, as well as setting up Pop Up Prom Shop at the different high school locations.
“I have a team of women and volunteers who help because I can’t do this by myself,” said Lacey. “They all take off work and come help me organize and give away dresses. I couldn’t do this without their support.”
Lacey also welcomes donations of clothing racks, dress bags and hangers for the high school students to use. Monetary contributions are also crucial to help purchase new dresses to replenish the inventory, as well as to assist in covering associated costs with the Pop Up Prom Shop, such as renting a U-Haul for transporting the dresses.
For Lacey, her drive for the success of this initiative is knowing the impact of Pop Up Prom Shop on young women.
“I’ve heard from teachers, counselors and parents about how much fun the girls had,” said Lacey. “They express how appreciative they were and how beautiful the girls looked. They’re all really appreciative, and that is so encouraging.”
For ways to volunteer, donate dresses or provide monetary support for Pop Up Prom Shop, contact Lacey at popuppromshopac@gmail.com.
FRIENDS OR FOES Managing Eastern
Gray Squirrels around the home
The eastern gray squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis, is one of the most well-known animals throughout Alabama. They are abundant and often the most recognized critters around houses, gardens, lawns, parks and nearby forests. It is interesting how differently people view squirrels and other backyard wildlife. Some folks might find squirrels cute and adorable, while others might detest them for the damage they can cause. Some people will feed and attract them to the backyard, whereas others prefer to hunt or limit their presence.
Where you were born, raised and currently live likely contributes to how you view squirrels. Those of us who grew up in the country usually associate them with their natural habitat – out in the woods. Squirrels often ventured to the edge of the yard to forage for food and were usually the culprit making racket in the leaves when trying to hunt deer or turkey. Ironically, they would also hide and stay quiet when squirrel hunting season was in. However, those of us who grew up in suburban and urban settings are more likely to associate squirrels with
their playful antics, high-flying acrobatics and ever presence in parks and neighborhoods.
The eastern gray squirrel is mostly found in areas with mixed oak and hickory hardwood forests. Yet it has adapted to various habitats enough to be a common resident and sometimes a problem in urban settings. Although predation seems to have little effect on its population, squirrels rarely live over four years in the wild.
Despite their charm, squirrels can occasionally become a nuisance in the home, landscape and garden. Most complaints in the winter involve squirrels robbing valuable and expensive birdseed from feeders. In spring and summer, the offenses arise from stealing ripe tomatoes or corn from vegetable gardens and various fruit from orchards. Come fall, squirrels snatch up pecans and disturb flower beds by rooting around.
Minor damage can often escalate to bigger problems. In many communities, squirrels have become so tolerant of humans that many will make their homes in
Deceitfully Charming
Though entertaining to watch, eastern gray squirrels can cause an array of problems for homeowners.
ours. Those desiring to live in residential garages and attics gain access through existing openings or find their way in by making new ones. Obvious annoyances are scratching, clawing, gnawing and scurrying about at all hours of the day and night. Amazingly, they can also do serious damage to electrical wiring by chewing off the insulation. This can cause a fire or trip your breakers and cause power outages.
Squirrels will eagerly eat from bird feeders; Right: Squirrels have gnawed a larger entrance to this birdhouse and made it their home.
houses through many natural or created openings, such as holes along the soffits where boards have rotted out, unscreened attic vents, uncapped chimneys, broken or open windows and doors, and electrical wire and utility pipe openings.
GARDEN TALK
When addressing wildlife issues and problems, there are many options to consider and implement. These damage prevention and control methods can be grouped as either nonlethal or lethal. Before beginning a squirrel management strategy, it is important to set realistic goals for what is considered effective management. In most cases, complete eradication and permanent removal of squirrels are unrealistic due to reproduction and immigration from other populations.
As individual squirrels are removed from a population, others quickly move in to fill the void. In addition, eastern gray squirrels breed twice a year, in February and March as well as in July and August, typically having two to four young in a litter. These two factors make squirrel control and damage reduction a realistic goal over eradication for most nuisance issues addressed here.
The best control method for dealing with squirrels feeding on plants and nesting in structures is exclusion. Bird netting can be effective when placed over and around valuable plants to deter them from stealing and digging. Squirrels are excellent jumpers, capable of launching up to four feet vertically and twice that distance horizontally. They enter
The best defense against unwelcome squirrels and other wildlife is preventive maintenance. Homeowners can keep trees and overhanging branches at least eight feet from buildings and feeders to limit access. It is also advised to periodically inspect for potential entrances and make necessary repairs. Ensure squirrels or other animals are out of the attic before sealing entrances.
Another legal animal control method to use when dealing with problem squirrels is trapping; however, it can be difficult. As with all trapping, be sure it is open season and you are not violating any local or city laws. Always take precautions to reduce the hazards of trapping nontarget wildlife or pets.
Several types of traps can be used to catch tree squirrels. The best ones to use are small wire box traps, which offer a nonlethal trapping method, or big snap rat traps, a lethal trapping option.
A mixture of peanut butter and oatmeal rolled into balls works well to attract squirrels and lure them to your trap.
A suggestion would be to start feeding them outside the trap first which gets the squirrels use to the bait, then slowly move the balls into the trap. When trapping squirrels, check the trap at least twice a day. They are smart creatures and learn quickly. When they see one of their buddies in a trap, that usually eliminates the next one from entering.
Relocating any species of wildlife to another area is not recommended for several reasons and is against the law. First, there is the problem with disease. Moving animals, especially mammals, can spread rabies and other diseases.
Pest or Pal
Left:
Kyle Marable
Shane Harris
Second, moving an animal to another area where there is already a set population of that species causes overcrowding and possible starvation. Third, doing so only moves the problem animal to someone else.
If your circumstance allows, population reduction is a lethal method to consider. It is important to check your local wildlife laws and regulations before developing a lethal management strategy. In most states, eastern gray squirrels are considered a game species with a specific season. In Alabama, the hunting season for squirrels is typically from September to March. According to the wildlife regulations in Alabama, homeowners are allowed to remove one nuisance eastern gray squirrel out of season without a permit (Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Administrative Code, Chapter 220-2-27).
Squirrels are fascinating animals, but like most wildlife, there is a fine imaginary line that is best not to cross. They may be welcomed visitors until they become a nuisance or cause a problem. Stay in the woods where you belong, and we will both be happy.
For additional help on home and garden questions,
Setting
Traps Catching squirrels in a live trap can be difficult.
contact your local county extension office or visit us online at aces.edu.
~ Shane Harris is the Tallapoosa County Extension Coordinator for the Alabama Cooperative Extension. M. Kyle Marable is our new Extension Agent for Forestry and Wildlife serving East Central Alabama.
Raspberry Streusel Cream Cheese Coffee Cake
There’s nothing quite like a slice of flavorful coffee cake to enjoy with your morning cup of coffee. This raspberry streusel cream cheese coffee cake is the perfect balance of textures and flavors, with a bakery-style taste. The combination of ingredients makes every bite absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup sugar
1 large egg white
1 cup fresh raspberries, washed and drained
Cake Ingredients
1 - 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
GOOD EATS
February is the perfect time for warm baked goods, and this coffee cake is just the treat to brighten chilly mornings. The soft, buttery cake, creamy filling and crunchy streusel make every bite proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. The raspberry layer adds a pop of color and flavor, making it an excellent choice for a cozy breakfast or an afternoon snack.
My favorite way to enjoy this delightful treat is fresh from the oven with a dusting of powdered sugar. The cream cheese layer will be soft and creamy, and the streusel will have a light crunch. Feel free to indulge in a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or pair it with a steaming cup of coffee.
Whether serving it fresh from the oven, for a cozy brunch, a holiday gathering, or just as a sweet treat with your morning coffee, this cake is a crowd-pleaser. Raspberry Streusel Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is a recipe you’ll find yourself making again. Bake one today and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!
~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
5 - 1/2 tablespoons butter, room temperature
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup sour cream
Streusel Ingredients
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons butter, cold and cubed
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick baking spray. I also like to line the bottom with parchment paper.
Make The Filling
Mix the cream cheese and sugar. Blend on medium-low speed until creamy. Add egg white and mix until just combined. Set aside.
Make The Cake
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside. In the bowl of a mixer, combine butter and sugar at low speed. Add vanilla, egg and egg yolk until blended. Slowly mix in the flour mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Carefully spoon the cream cheese filling over the top. Smooth evenly. Place the raspberries onto the cream cheese filling. Cut larger raspberries in half.
Streusel/Bake
Combine flour, sugar and butter in a bowl. Work ingredients together with a fork until the mixture resembles wet sand. Spread the mixture over the raspberries. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes at 350 degrees. Test the cake by inserting a wooden toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with dry crumbs, it’s done. Cool on a wire rack in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, run a thin knife around the edge of the cake and loosen the springform ring. Continue to cool completely on the wire rack or slice and enjoy warm. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Gina Abernathy
Montgomery's Legacy Museum
The Legacy Museum offers an immersive journey through American history, addressing racial inequalities
STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE PHOTOS COURTSEY OF EQUAL JUSTICE INITIATIVE
The Legacy Museum is a visually impactful and immersive experience that takes visitors on a profound journey through the depths of American history, exploring topics from the transatlantic slave trade to the racial inequalities that society still experiences today.
Located in Montgomery, Alabama, the self-guided tour through the Legacy Museum is an indoor experience built on a site where a former cotton warehouse once stood. Since its opening in 2018, the museum has expanded into a 44,000-square-foot space that sparks a sea of thoughtprovoking emotions through its heartfelt storytelling, larger-than-life structures and interactive exhibits.
An
Immersive Experience
Visitors typically spend at least two hours exploring the museum, though many set aside three to five hours for a more immersive experience, often breaking up their tour for a bite to eat at PannieGeorge’s Restaurant onsite.
Top: Larger-than-life visuals make a stunning impact; Bottom: The National Monument to Freedom has 122,000 names of newly emancipated individuals engraved on it; Facing Page Top: The Reflection Space; Facing Page Bottom: Creative displays of narrative enhance the storytelling.
Upon entering the Legacy Museum, guests are immediately immersed in a powerful, multisensory experience. Sounds of crashing waves echo throughout the entryway while visuals of the ocean are projected
onto surrounding walls, placing visitors in a realistic scene much like enslaved people would have endured during their passage across the Atlantic.
This striking introduction and visual concept is the first of many that guests encounter as cutting-edge technology and creatively displayed narration are used throughout the space to tell history in a compelling manner.
Throughout the museum tour, visitors can engage with lifelike holograms that reenact powerful, firsthand narratives of enslaved individuals as well as those facing racial injustice through mass incarceration today. These stories offer diverse perspectives of historical accounts, allowing visitors to connect deeply with the resilience, survival and the ongoing fight for justice.
The Legacy Museum is also known for its stunning world-class art gallery and collection of sculptures. One of the most notable artists showcased at the Legacy Museum is Kwame Akoto-Bamfo, an artist
The Fight for Equality
Top: The Legacy Museum delves into historical events spanning across 400 years; African Americans faced impossible tasks to qualify to vote, such as identifying quantities of jellybeans in jars.
and activist known for dedicating his work to honoring, empowering and advocating for justice for people of African descent. AkotoBamfo’s sculptures are strikingly displayed within the museum to honor the lives lost at sea during the transatlantic slave trade. While designed to be immersive and educational, an important goal of the museum is to foster honest conversation surrounding America’s history and inspire movement forward.
For the full Legacy Site experience, it is recommended to plan a two-day trip to ensure the opportunity to visit the other two outdoor sites: the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. Most visitors spend about one to two hours exploring and reflecting at each of these sites.
The Freedom Monument Sculpture Park is a 17acre outdoor site that sits on the banks of the Alabama River, once a major hub for commerce and home to large plantations reliant on enslaved labor. This river, flowing through the Black Belt, played a key role in the transatlantic slave trade, with nearly 400,000 Black people enslaved in the area by 1860. The park also acknowledges the Indigenous peoples who once lived here and highlights the nearby rail lines, built by enslaved Black people, that were central to the trafficking of enslaved individuals to Montgomery and beyond.
A scenic footpath leads the way through the park,
Visually Impacting
Top
to Bottom:
lined with striking, symbolic sculptures that are designed to evoke deep emotion and reflection. The art at the Freedom Monument Sculpture Park seeks to highlight the humanity of enslaved people and the brutality of slavery. depicting both the harsh realities of enslavement and the strength, courage and resilience of enslaved individuals and their descendants.
Kwame Akoto-Bamfo sculptures honor the lives of lost at sea during the transatlantic slave trade; Jars of collected soil from lynching sites are on display; Interactive kiosks provide a wealth of information; Realistic holograms reenact documented narratives of enslaved individuals.
Featuring works by renowned artists like Charles Gaines, Alison Saar, and Simone Leigh, the park’s collection is one of the most significant narrative art collections in the world, blending history and art to illuminate the struggle for freedom and justice.
The park also includes the rare experience of stepping inside authentic 170-year-old dwellings, carefully relocated from a plantation in Marengo County, Alabama. Informative signage throughout the site assists in providing historical context, allowing guests to fully absorb the significance of the location.
The Freedom Monument Sculpture Park’s defining feature is the National Monument to Freedom, a striking wall honoring the four million formerly enslaved Black individuals emancipated after the Civil War. In 1870, for the first time, millions of formerly enslaved people were able to choose a surname, a significant moment in American history. The monument now engraves all 122,000 of these names that were chosen, preserving their legacy across generations.
The third site available to tour is the National Memorial for Peace and Justice. Opened in 2018, this outdoor site is the first memorial in the U.S. dedicated to the victims of racial terror lynchings. Created by the Equal Justice Initiative, the memorial features over 800 steel monuments, each representing a county where lynchings occurred, with victims’ names engraved on them. EJI’s ongoing Community Remembrance Project works with local coalitions to erect markers across the country, ensuring this painful history is acknowledged and remembered.
Through a complimentary shuttle service, visitors are able to easily access each of the three locations. In addition, Legacy Sites also provide an option for a 15-minute boat ride down the Alabama River. Both the shuttle and the boat ride are included with the $5 museum ticket at no additional cost.
The Legacy Museum and additional sites are open Wednesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit legacysites.eji.org.
Flu season is in full swing
Remember COVID-19? I know, you’re trying to forget. But I wonder if you remember the silver lining: almost nobody got the flu because we were all wearing masks, washing our hands and keeping social distance.
This is a very different year. Cases of the flu are rising in Alabama, and according to Alabama Department of Public Health Medical Officer Dr. Wes Stubblefield, the incidence of flu and similar illnesses will continue rising into February.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an estimated 5.3 million cases of flu nationwide as of mid-January, causing 63,000 hospitalizations and 2,700 deaths.
Alabama is in the top 10 of states with high rates of respiratory illnesses. In addition to flu and flu-like illnesses, which accounted for about 8 to 10 percent of emergency room visits in January, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus are also increasing.
MEDICAL NEWS
Two other communicable diseases are appearing less frequently but are still disturbing. Norovirus – the “stomach flu,” which causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea – has been spreading around. And while much rarer, the avian flu, also known as the bird flu – the real culprit behind the high price of eggs – has also caused at least one human fatality this season.
Respiratory illnesses make for a miserable experience
for most of us. But for folks who are very young or older, whose immune systems are weakened, or who have one or more chronic illnesses, these viruses can be debilitating – even deadly. So it’s not a bad idea to take some precautions, especially if you are in one of the high-risk groups.
So what can you do to reduce your risk of catching one of these viruses? Well, you already know because we had to do it for nearly two years just a while back. One of the most effective actions you can take is to get the flu vaccine. And if you’re in a vulnerable group, consider getting the RSV vaccine as well.
The flu vaccine is expected to be about 40 to 60 percent effective this year. Its effectiveness depends on how well the vaccine developers predicted which strains of the flu would be prevalent this year. So while the vaccine won’t prevent everyone from getting the flu, it will protect about half the people who take it. The vaccine will also make the flu less debilitating for others, possibly avoiding hospitalization.
Just under 40 percent of Alabamians got the flu vaccine this year, which trends just below the national average. Even though the most opportune time to get the flu shot is in September or October, it’s not too late to get it this year because the flu is still raging.
Perhaps even more effective than vaccination is regular handwashing. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure to scrub your nail beds, your palms and the backs of your hands. A good trick to ensure you wash for 20 seconds – although it might garner some weird stares from others in the bathroom – is to sing Happy Birthday to You. If you sing Happy Birthday, Mr. President, in a breathy voice, you’ll get some really weird looks. On the bright side, you’ll have the
George Miranda
bathroom all to yourself in no time. Remember social distancing? If you’re not feeling well, avoid close contact with others. Warn them to keep their distance. Likewise, avoid approaching other people if they are sick.
Poorly ventilated areas allow greater exposure to airborne viruses, just as a fast-moving river prevents stagnant water. Opening windows to let in fresh air reduces your risk, except that it’s 19 degrees these days. The alternative is to wear a mask. I know. I know. Y’all are tired of wearing masks. You probably never want to see another mask for the rest of your life. But masking is a very effective way to reduce your exposure when you are in crowded areas with poor ventilation, and you don’t know who’s sick and who’s well. Masking is also very thoughtful if you are ill because it reduces the risk you may pose to others.
it down with a cloth or paper towel actually reduces the spray’s effectiveness and potentially reintroduces pathogens to the surface you just sprayed.
When all is said and done, in spite of every precaution you take, you might still end up getting sick. Because while these actions can reduce your risk, they can’t completely eliminate it. So if you do get the flu or flu-like illness, go see your doctor as soon as you can. He or she can prescribe antiviral medication, and the sooner you take the medicine, the more effective it is.
Finally, regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces will help eliminate the spread of harmful viruses. In the hospital world, we have adopted the habit of spraying antiviral agents on such surfaces. For instance, we spray our infusion chairs in the cancer center between patients, as well as the couch on our radiation machine.
You can buy effective antiviral sprays at the grocery store or the hardware store. You should let it air dry after you spray it. Wiping
Other than that, you pretty much have to let the virus run its course and need to treat the symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids, take pain relievers for your aches and malaise and get plenty of rest. Your immune system works better when you’re sleeping. Whatever you do, do not go to work or school. If your child is sick, for Pete’s sake, don’t take him or her to daycare. You’ll just get the rest of the families in town sick as well.
Finally, the longer your illness drags on, the higher your risk for secondary infections, including pneumonia. See your doctor if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, high fever, or intractable vomiting.
~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine - Russell Medical Cancer Center.
Crystal Ball
At the beginning of each year, clients always ask, “What’s the market going to do this year?”
It would seem that, given this is my craft, my colleagues and I that are in this industry should have real insight into what the current year may look like. After all, there is so much data and past history that an informed advisor should know the answer to such a simple question.
I have subscriptions to many different news publications and market data, and one of the reports I always enjoy looking at in January of each year is Wall Street’s predictions for market returns that year. I’m not going to shame different firms, but some of the quotes below from 2024 were:
“We are forecasting the S&P 500 to end 2024 at 4,257.”
“Our year-end target for the S&P is 4,940.”
“The S&P will end the year between 4,700 and 4,800.”
So, how did the S&P end 2024? It ended the year at 5,881, substantially higher than leading analysts forecast. For additional context, the market ended 2023 at 4,769. One analyst was predicting the market to go down, another predicted an increase of around 5 percent and the other analyst seeing essentially a flat market.
For the record, I could have put several other quotes from analysts above, and they would look similar. Calendar year 2024 saw the market advance more than 20 percent. Not only were these well-informed professionals off; they were way off.
So, what do I feel confident in saying about 2025? I feel confident in saying that historically speaking, since the mid1920s the market directionally goes up around 73 percent of the time while finishing down 23 percent of the time. This is a high enough percentage where I would lean toward saying that at the beginning of each year, the market will end up higher than where it started.
How much higher? That’s another tough one. History says markets have compounded at something like 10 percent over the last 100 years. I came across this chart by Ritholtz Wealth Management, which does a nice job of summarizing what I’m trying to get across.
This shows in a chart what has happened since the beginning
MONEY MATTERS
of the 1900s regarding U.S. stocks in a bear market, or down market. After 1950, the percentage of time in a bear market is strikingly low. Investing in the market over the last almost 100 years has been kind of like skiing downhill. I believe that is a pretty good summation. Gravity in skiing propels you downhill with hardly any effort, assuming you can ski. In the stock market, earnings historically have grown, and as they have grown, so have stocks. Earnings are gravity to stocks. I believe we will be more productive in the future than today, which means I believe earnings will grow. Why fight that likely trend? It would be like fighting gravity.
If you want to go with the numbers, making a prediction at the beginning of the year that the market will go up for the year has historically proven to be the most accurate forecast.
~ Lee Williams
Important Information
Blalock Williams, LLC (Blalock Williams) is a registered investment advisor. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Blalock Williams and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure.
The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investor’s particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your attorney or tax advisor.
The views expressed in this commentary are subject to change based on market and other conditions. These documents may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur. All information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy is not guaranteed. There is no representation or warranty as to the current accuracy, reliability, or completeness of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information and it should not be relied on as such.
Lee Williams
sales@lakescape.com
Lake Martin homeowners seeking to enhance their lakefront from the front door to the waterline with docks, decks, boathouses, hard and soft scapes, irrigation, lighting and other features or to renovate or service existing ones.
Docks & Seawalls
Decks & Patios
Landscaping
Lighting & Electrical
Repairs & Maintenance
1. Hannah Yates
2. Cara Mae Davis and Kailee Giddens
3. Felicia and Henley Brown
4. Paislee Sharpe, Lina Tidwell and Brynlee Alford
5. Elizabeth Lopez
6. Gracie Deason and Alisa Foreman
7. Kailee Giddens, Morgan Tuck and Henley Brown
8. Brandy Brazzell, Jill Romine, Paula Arnberg and Laura Lacey
Friday, January 17, 2025
Dadeville Performing Arts Center
1. Linda and Waylon Powell
2.
3.
4.
5.
Vicki and Alan Scott
Ed and Margarett Sloan
Jackie Wilbourn and Kim Walls
Steve Schmittner, Joe Logan, Freddie and Linda Sessions and Marci Logan
6. Perry McCain, Lee Taylor, Bill Richardson and Joel Reagan
7. Leigh McCain and Janice Johnson
8. Jim and Helen Harber
9. Wanda Debutts and Crista and Britt Richardson
1. Melinda Emfinger and Bailee, Brennan and Braylen Landers
2. Emersyn Wiginton and Reese Jacobs
3. Miley Fillingham and Lexi and Anya Hill
4. Sandra Patterson and Stephen Moore
5. Beckham Wiginton
6. Nancy and Joey Wiginton
7. Belinda Watrous
8. Kesha, Liam, Bella, Mary, Dale and Trint Brown
9. Dustin and Angie Cook, Gentry Larson, Sandra Patterson and Katie and Stephen Larson
Saturday, January 18, 2025
Kowaliga Restaurant
1. Cindy Lyle and Jennifer Mattox
2. Chuck Mann and Sherry Johnston
3. Todd Hayes and Sammy Teel
4. Sawyer Lett and Liz Holland
5. Brenda Kilman and Jan Hall
6. Sawyer Lett, Keegan Swayer and Jason and Tina Lett
1. JoAnn Thomas
2. Ryan Gosdin and Brady Lashley
3. Bobby Powell and Deborah Blackston
4. Kaytlynn Grant
5. Stephen Moore
6. Brianna, Carleigh, Ivie and Jurnee Grant
Sunday, January 12, 2025
Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium
1. Leighann Presley and Averie Latham
2. Alyssa and Jeremy Strickland
3. Vivian Fuller
4. Karen Jennings and Connie Forehand
5. Paul Stanbrough, Jordan Hanna and Sandy Stanbrough
6. Denise Graves and Linda Gunn
7. Randy Dawkins and Martha Dee and Keith White
8. Carson, Judson, Ryder, Sabrina, Piper, Corrie and Tracey
THE LAKE REGION
EVENT Calendar
FEATURED
Chili & Gumbo Cook-off
Alexander City celebrates Mardi Gras with spicy competition
Get ready to let the good times boil and spice up your day with the annual Main Street Alexander City Mardi Gras competition. Downtown Alexander City is turning up the heat with the return of the Chili and Gumbo Cook-off, where the boldest and spiciest flavors will battle for the top prize in multiple cooking categories. Festivities kick off at 11 a.m. in the Main Street parking lot with a day packed with live music, exciting activities and mouthwatering flavors, bringing the spirit of Mardi Gras fun for the whole family. With $500 on the line for the best chili and gumbo in each cooking category, teams of up to five can enter for free and put their culinary skills to the test.
Sizzling Showdown
Teams bring their best chili and gumbo dishes to compete for bragging rights and cash prizes in the festive event on March 1.
While the chefs keep their pots stirring, guests can also enjoy a lively Kid’s Zone from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., making it a good time for all ages.
More than just a festival of flavor, this event supports Main Street Alexander City in keeping downtown beautiful, vibrant and lively yearround, just like a true Mardi Gras celebration. Tickets are $10 online or $15 at the door, with free entry for children 12 and under. Don’t miss out, grab your tickets now at mainstreetalexandercity.org and laissez les bon temps rouler!
February 14
Valentine’s Day Fur Ball
The Mitchell House in Dadeville will host a formal evening from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. to benefit Lake Martin Animal Shelter. The night will include live music, dinner and dessert, a cash bar, silent auction, door prizes, games and more. Dress up for a great cause. Tax-deductible donations will support local animal rescues. Visit Lake Martin Animal Rescue on Facebook for more information.
February 15
Pancake Day
Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Kiwanis Club will host a breakfast of pancakes, sausage, coffee, juice and milk from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Dadeville Elementary School cafeteria. Tickets are $8 and are available from any club member or at the door on the day of the event. Funds raised will benefit the high school senior scholarship fund.
February 15
Storytime Extravaganza
Dadeville Public Library will present local children’s author Negrita Smart as she shares her stories from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Dadeville Performing Arts Center.
February 17
Sax on the Square
Tommy G will bring his sweet, soulful saxophone to Dadeville Performing Arts Center from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Purchase an Instrumental Concert Series Pass for $30 to see this concert and three other performances scheduled for March 24, April 14 and May 26. Visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com for details.
February 21
Tom Tyson and Band
Branching out beyond traditional bluegrass music into other musical genres, this 7 p.m. event at Dadeville Performing Arts Center is a followup to Tom and Ben’s previous guest appearance with Town Creek Ramblers Bluegrass Band. Tickets are $10 in advance online at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.
February 22
Russell Forest Run
LAKE REGION EVENTS
This exhilarating run through Russell Forest has raised almost $133,000 over 16 years. Be a part of something big and sign up today. Registration is $40. Choose the 5K or 10K event. The starting gun fires at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7:45 a.m. and 7:55 a.m., respectively, and the after-party at The Stables can't be beat with the World Famous Grits Bar. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for details and registration information.
February 23
Gospel Extravaganza and Black History Celebration
Dadeville Performing Arts Center will host popular regional gospel groups to celebrate the area’s rich heritage of true American spiritual music. For more information, visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com
March 1
HOBOs Annual Meeting
The 2025 Annual Meeting of the Lake Martin Homeowners and Boat Owners Association will be held at 8:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Dadeville. Visit lakemartinhobos.com for details.
March 8
Acoustic Jam Session
Acoustic musicians of all levels gather on the second Saturday each month from from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to jam acoustic music. The public is invited to come, play and listen for free. Find more information at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.
March 15
Talladega Wild Game Cook-Off
Alabama Wildlife Federation will host the wild game competition at 4 p.m. at Talladega Super Speedway, so gather your team and finalize your recipes. The winner of this competition advances to the State Finals at Lanark in Millbrook on August 2. For more information, call Heather Buesinger at 334-285-4550.
Season-long Events
Free
Tax Assistance & E-filing
Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama, Inc., at 5030 U.S. Route 280 in Alexander City will host IRS certified volunteers to provide free tax assistance and electronic filing of federal and state income tax forms for seniors at any income level and taxpayers under age 60 with incomes less than $68,000, as well as disabled taxpayers. Make your appointment to drop off your information before April 1, 2025, by calling 256-234-0347. Do not come without an appointment. Bring last year’s tax return, a photo ID for taxpayer and spouse, as well as Social Security cards for taxpayers and dependents, W-2s, 1099s and 1095-A if applicable.
Pastry & Paint
Join local painter Kay Fincher for a painting event from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at The Grand Bakery on Broadnax Street in Dadeville. All materials will be provided to complete a canvas picture. No previous painting experience in necessary; however, reservations are required. The class is $30 for each person and is limited to 10 participants. Call Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506 to reserve a spot.
Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours
Come see Naturalist Marianne and her lively nature presentations at the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature. Check the calendar at russelllands.com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.
Memory Makers Quilt Guild
This group meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus. Arrive at 9:30 a.m. and sew until 2 p.m. Bring your lunch or a snack, sewing projects, machines and questions.
Explore
Lake Martin
Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111
The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300
River North Marina 256-397-1500
Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700
Real Island Marina 334-857-2741
Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888
Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550
Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600
Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793
SpringHouse 256-215-7080
Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070
Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035
Acapulco Mexican Gril 334-283-2725
Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567
Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132
Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256
The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333
Kowaliga Whole Health 334-857-1816
Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133
Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847
Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717
Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440
Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820
Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293
Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc 334-857-2443
Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400
Dixie Sailing Club
Lakeshore Pharmacy 256-825-0063
Singleton Marine 256-269-0088
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ALEXANDER CITY
Robinson Iron
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Moore Wealth Management
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Longleaf Antique Mall
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DADEVILLE
Chamber of Commerce
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Link Gas Station
EQUALITY
Five Star Plantation
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ECLECTIC
Lake Breeze Realty
Offshore Marina
Running has long been a part of my life.
I grew up in Indian Hills, and if memory serves me correctly, I started running for fun when I was about 14 years old. I had a pair of baby blue track pants and a FM radio Velcroed to my bicep. It’s funny the energy you have as a teenager. Dobbs Road was long and flat, and two laps around the Morningside loop equaled a mile. I would run that loop at 9 o’clock at night. I would run when I was happy, and I would run when I was sad.
The first 5K I ran was in college at Auburn. I was in Kappa Delta sorority, and our philanthropy event was the Shamrock Run. I remember a girl throwing up green beer in the middle of that race.
Culture Shock
Lacey Howell
When I got my first job out of college and lived in Birmingham, I really got into road races. My boss at the time, Ben Pugh, was a big runner and had done a ton of marathons over the years, so we talked about running a lot. I lived in Bluff Park, and it was a short drive down the hill to hit the big paved running trails in front of Samford University. I also loved running through Mountain Brook and looking at the old homes.
When my mom first got sick in 2010, Hayden Gunn and I ran the Susan G. Komen Race to raise money for breast cancer. It was a stressful time in my life, and running kept me grounded. So like Forrest Gump, I kept going. I did the Vulcan Race 10K and then decided to train for the St. Jude half marathon in Memphis, which benefited childhood cancer. Running can truly be therapy, and for me, it is medicine. It has saved me time and time again throughout my life. Anytime I have a lot on my mind or a big decision to make, I go for a run, and I have had many memorable runs. I remember the run after my first big real estate deal had come together. An eagle flew overhead, and I was flying high too.
The Russell Forest Run is this month, and it is one of my favorite weekends of the year. The race raises money for the Alexander City Education Foundation and has one heck of an after-party with a band, hot soup and cold beer. Participants can choose between racing in the 5K or the 10K. A lot of people walk the 5K. If you have not experienced the forest, I recommend putting it on your bucket list. With over 120 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails, you never run
Running Companions
John Howell, Jill Dark, Lacey Howell and Tatum Massey at last year's Russell Forest Run
out of ways to explore.
My friends and I begin talking about the Russell Forest Run around Thanksgiving, and the older we get, the more competitive we have become. The race is hard. Anyone who has competed in races will tell you it is the hardest course they have ever done, and Heaven’s Hill is no joke. I don’t know how many times I have done it, but every year is the same. Newbie runners start out way too fast and hit a wall around mile 2 when the topography begins to change. You have to lock in a pace and stay steady up the hills to conquer the 10K. One of my favorite memories is watching my little brother melt down out there because he talked a lot of smack and started out too fast, finishing with quite the side cramp.
Last year, our bootcamp squad really showed out. John came in eighth overall, and Tatum Massey, our personal trainer and bootcamp instructor, finished 10th in the 10K. I was proud of myself, I came in second for females in the 30-39 age category. I have to beat my time of 1 hour, 1 minute this year, and you can bet this year I am going to get out on the trails and do a little hill training!
The race is on Saturday, February 22 this year. Register online at russellforestrun.com and I hope to see you out there.
~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and loves good wine. Follow her on Instragram @ LaceyHowell
CALCIUM SCORE HEART SCAN
$40.00
a non-invasive CT Scan that provides enhanced 3D heart images to find the presence, location, and extent of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries not recommended for patients who have had a prior scan within the last 3 years or have history of cardiac stents and/or bypass surgery
ECHOCARDIOGRAM
$125.00
ultrasound generates 3D moving images of the heart to assess the functionality of chambers & valves
not recommended if you are an established patient of a cardiologist who has had a cardiac visit within the last 12 months, or have had an echocardiogram within the last 6 months
STROKE PREVENTION ULTRASOUND
$75.00
carotid artery ultrasound that detects thickening of the artery walls that lead to stroke