November 2015 Elmore County Living by Tallapoosa Publishers

Elmore County Living

The musical legacy of Wetumpka educator

Kathy Willis

Montgomery families on why they choose Elmore County

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS! Art Guild Show Winners

The Great Canned Cranberry Sauce Debate November 2015 ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

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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From the Managing Editor's Desk

There is much to celebrate in Elmore County this month, from holiday preparations and programs to the people who make great things happen in our own backyard. On the cover of this magazine and in the article on page 28, we are honored to celebrate the musical legacy of Wetumpka’s Kathy Willis. Passionate about music and the arts, this former elementary school principal and teacher brought fine arts education to her local school when there was no funding available for such programs. Mia Osborn met with Willis, the wife of the city’s mayor, to reflect on the opportunities she created for children and adults – and still works to promote – in local communities. Cory Diaz attended another celebration, this one at the Alabama Wildlife Federation Headquarters in Millbrook where the Alabama Nature Center’s NaturePlex recently opened to offer educational programs for children statewide. Turn to page 12 to join the festivities. And of course, we are poised for the year’s biggest and brightest of holiday celebrations, as the calendar rolls into Thanksgiving next week with Christmas on its heels. Read all about how the county celebrates the holidays on pages 20 to 27 and make your plans for the fun. We know of three families who particularly enjoy celebrating the holidays here; along with others like them, they left the high cost and high crime of city life to find stability, security and peace of mind in Elmore County. Since 1990, some 30,000 people have done the same, raising Elmore County’s population by 40 percent in the last 25 years, according to U.S. Census statistics. In this article on page 32, the first in a series on the growth of Elmore County, the Stubers, Logans and Kellers talk about why they left Montgomery and embraced life over the county line. Take part in this series by completing the survey on the new Elmore County Living webpage at www.thewetumpkaherald. com/category/Elmore-county-living or www.pulseresearch. com/shopping survey, and you could win one of two $500 gift cards! Post comments on our Facebook page or email us at editor@ lakemartinmagazine.com, and let us know what you think is great about living in Elmore County. We’ll see you out and about this month, celebrating Elmore County!

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor

STAFF President & Publisher Kenneth Boone

kenneth.boone@alexcityoutlook.com

General Manager

Shannon Elliott

shannon.elliott@thewetumpkaherald.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 Willie G. Moseley Carmen Rodgers Jacob Saylor Kevin Taylor Cory Diaz Kathy Monroe Larry Johnson

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

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CONTENTS ON THE COVER

Wetumpka's Kathy Willis has shared her love of music with family, friends and school children since her high school days. Photo by Suellen Young

Features

Columns

In Every Issue

Back in the Day

NaturePlex Opens

Extra! Extra!

Movie Man

Atchison Takes First

Business Spotlight

Community Care

An Eclectic Christmas

The Gamer

Christmas on the Coosa

Southern Delights

Tallassee Traditions

Christmas in Millbrook

52.

40 42 54

The Rev. Peyton Bibb Holiday Film Treats Saying Thanks!

10 Games For HD Remake Cranberry Sauce Debate

27 32

AWF Program Expansion 31st Annual ECAG Art Show Production at Falk Farm

Lights, Music and Pancakes Tree Lighting and Parade

Spirit of Christmas in the Park

News Briefs Parker Tire

Mover & Shaker Kathy Willis

Coming Up

Calendar of Upcoming Events

Out & About

In Elmore County

Where to Find Us Distribution List

The Changing Face of Elmore County

Families Cross the County Line

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See a holiday show Local theater productions include Santaland Diaries and Miracle on 34th Street

ocal community theatre company productions this month and next include seasonal favorites, comedies and touching holiday stories. Now on stage at Millbrook Community Players through Nov. 22 is Stephanie McGuire’s Miracle on 34th Street, a story that shuns blatant commercialism for the love and generosity of the Christmas spirit. The classic 1947 film version of this story starred Maureen O’Hara, Edmund Gwenn, John Payne and Natalie Wood as the child, who along with an attorney (John Payne) must prove that an eccentric old man named Kris Kringle is the real Santa Claus. Order tickets online at www.millbrooktheater.com. Cloverdale Playhouse also has two short plays in production through Nov. 20, The Long Christmas Dinner by Thornton Wilder and The Santaland Diaries by David Sedaris. Wilder’s holiday meal takes place at the same family table over 95 years. Charac-

ters age on stage, and the family welcomes new members and bids farewell to others in this heartwarming holiday treat, which is followed by a hilarious account of Santa at Macy’s Department Store, as told by a Christmas elf. For details and information, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Wetumpka Depot Players on Nov. 29 will produce Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas by Jane O’Connor. Nancy has splendiferous plans for holiday decorating, but things don’t turn out exactly the way she wanted. And Dec. 7 through 15, the Wetumpka Depot Players will look in on the ladies of the Luna Del Mar Manufactured Home Oasis and Monkey Emporium as they prepare for the annual drive-by Christmas play that features Elvis and Scarlett O’Hara at the nativity. Visit the Wetumpka Depot Players’ webpage at www.wetumpkadepot.com for information and tickets.

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Extra! Extra! News from Elmore County and surrounding areas

ECHS grad joins Montgomery station Alabama News Network recently announced that Shane Butler has been hired as chief meteorologist. Butler, a graduate of Elmore County High School, has more than 25 years of experience in weather forecasting, making him the most experienced TV meteorologist in the Montgomery market. He joins the Alabama News Network from WRDW, the CBS affiliate in Augusta, Georgia, where he was chief meteorologist for six years. Previously, he worked as chief meteorologist for stations in Lynchburg-Roanoke, Virginia, Huntsville and Atlanta. Butler grew up in Elmore County and attended Troy University.

Church offers blessings to our furry friends Pets and their owners willingly — and some unwillingly — braved a quick sprinkle of holy water Oct. 4 in the garden area of Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka. The reason for the quick spritz was in conjunction with the annual celebration of the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, who is the patron saint of animals. Also called the Blessing of the Animals, a dozen pet owners were joined by their dogs and cats Sunday afternoon to be blessed by Trinity rector Bob Henderson. Trinity has held the Blessing of the Animals for years, which typically is held on the first Sunday of October. The blessing is in honor of St. Francis of Assisi and his love for all creatures.

Volleyball record holder visits THS to save lives Bob Holmes came to Tallassee with a message, to save lives. Holmes has traveled to more than 5,000 schools nationwide on his crusade to prevent bullying, teen suicide, drinking and driving, as well as texting and driving. “I do this not because of volleyball, I do this because I heard last year a million teenagers tried to kill themselves and it’s hard to believe, but every 30 seconds a person tries to kill themselves because someone was bullying them on the Internet or in school,” Holmes said. Holmes grew up in the Boston, Massachusetts area. His compassion for others keeps him on the road across the country getting out the message that you can "Beat the Odds," he said. Holmes employs volleyball as a tool to relate his message to children and teens. When it comes to

volleyball Holmes is a master, with 18,400 wins and 385 losses. “Ripley’s Believe it or Not” just finished a second story on Holmes because he has played more games than any athlete in the history of the world in any sport. During his visit Friday at the Tallassee High School gym, Holmes challenged a group of girls and group of boys. The boy’s team gave Holmes a challenge. Holmes challenged the boys to return for his Saturday evening game, which was open to the public. It was during Saturday’s game Holmes was visually shaken as the Tallassee boy’s team all wore signature bandanas to signify their team almost beat the unbeatable. “This is the best boys team that’s ever played against me,” Holmes said. “I’m awarding these guys as the best in America.”

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Cotton Festival draws large crowd The streets of downtown Eclectic last month were packed for the 23rd annual Cotton Festival. Vendors lined Main Street, and the Kids' Zone across from the Eclectic Fire Department did a brisk business. “We had lots of vendors, lots of activities, an excellent response to the kids' zone and the day in general was good,” said Deborah Rowe, Eclectic Town Clerk. “We had about 80plus vendors.” The crowd started early and lasted throughout the duration of the Cotton Festival. “I know that from early that morning until 2 o’clock that afternoon there was a good flow of people steadily coming in,” Rowe said. The children enjoyed face painting and pony rides while the adults enjoyed the live entertainment and scores of delicious food. “I think it’s great that the city does this every year. It gives everyone something to do,” said Emily Moore of Eclectic.

BBQ sales fund ECHS FFA trip

Elmore County High School’s chapter of Future Farmers of America raised more than $900 for a trip to

The Sunbelt Expo during its annual barbecue fundraiser. With 52 students in the organization, the chapter

cooked Boston butts, baked beans, coleslaw and pound cake. “We usually get a charter bus to take to Georgia and that runs around $1,800 and this fundraiser helps pay for the bus,” said Jennifer Meadows, agriculture teacher and FFA advisor.

Wetumpka High School Robotics still the BEST Wetumpka High School was the team to beat at the War Eagle BEST competition at Auburn University, but no one did. WHS Robotics was named Overall BEST of 23 teams from the central Alabama region, taking top honors for its marketing presentation, team exhibit and design, most robust robot, team exhibit interview and software design. They also took second place in the webpage design, spirit and sportsmanship. The team's only third place showing came in competition driving.

Breast cancer walk honors survivors Dozens of pink balloons floated over the Coosa River at noon Oct. 9 to honor those who have battled breast cancer. The balloon release was the climax of the annual Color the Town Pink Walk, hosted by Ivy Creek Heath Care, the City of Wetumpka and The Wetumpka Herald. Participants carried pink balloons and wore pink clothes to heighten breast cancer awareness.

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Parker Tire

Story by Carmen Rodgers Photos by Barry Chrietzberg

rad Parker was born and raised in Tallassee by his parents, Roy and Mary Parker. Growing up in Tallassee allowed Brad Parker the opportunity to understand the needs of his hometown and its people. This understanding is what led him to open Parker Tire and Service Center in Tallassee. “I saw a need in the late ’80s and early ’90s for a tire store and automotive repair facility. There was nothing more than a gas station at the time, which was selling tires, and no one had up-to-date equipment,” said Parker. Parker opened his business on Gilmer Avenue in July of 1991. Since then, he has become a staple in Tallassee. The shop operated at 1117 Gilmer Ave. until 1995, when Parker moved his business down the road to the current location at 1508 Gilmer Ave. “The first thing I did when I first opened was buy new equipment. Certainly in this day in time, we wouldn’t be able to service all the different vehicles without the up-todate equipment,” Parker explained. Parker Tire and Service Center offers a wide variety of services and tires. Parker can change virtually any tire for any vehicle, even farm equipment. Parker has seen a lot of change in the business over the years. “The number of different sizes of tires has increased dramatically over the last 25 years. When we first started, we could stock about 15 sizes, and that would cover about 90 percent of the cars,” he explained. “Today, probably 150 different sizes of tires will cover about 50 percent of cars.” Thanks to technology, it is not necessary to keep all the different styles and sizes of tires in stock at all times. “We have about five or six suppliers, some that can run twice a day, so we don’t have to stock as many products as we used to. We can get them delivered the same day,” explained Parker. Before the invention of the Internet, ordering tires was different. “There was no Internet 25 years ago. We had a book, and we had to look it up and call. Now, you don’t call anybody. Everything is done electronically,” Parker said. Inside his establishment, Parker has created a welcoming hometown feel. There are pictures of Tallassee’s most

well known landmarks, such as the Fitzpatrick Bridge and Thurlow Dam, hanging on the walls of the shop. There are wooden rocking chairs in the waiting area, just like the rockers found on any proper front porch in the South. Customers can sit in one of these comfy rocking chairs and watch the traffic go by or watch television as they wait for their vehicles to be serviced. Currently, Parker Tire and Service Center employs 10 people, all from the Tallassee area. Some of them have been with the business for decades. “I have one employee, Jody Wallace, who has been with us for 23 years,” said Parker. Parker attributes much of his success to the support of Parker Tire has become a Tallassee staple in the 25 years since its opening

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the community and said he tries to return that support. “Tallassee is home, and I think we have a very good sense of community. Through the years, I’ve tried to help with any worthwhile cause that was in the town, everything from youth athletics and sports to high school sports and community fundraising,” said Parker. This involvement has helped him establish his business as one that gives back to the community. Today, Parker Tire and Service Center’s reach has extended far beyond Tallassee. Parker now services vehicles from various surrounding areas as well. “We cover parts of Macon, Bullock, Montgomery, most of Elmore County, Tallapoosa County and parts of Coosa County,” he said. “The business was totally built on repeat customers, because, honestly, without word of mouth and repeat customers, you can’t stay in business. We try to treat people fairly and provide them with the service that they need while making a living and providing jobs all at the same time,” Parker continued. Parker Tire is open from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. until noon on Saturday. For more information, call 334-283-4979.

Brad Parker's business model relies on integrity and repeat customers

Business Spotlight ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

NaturePlex opens at AWF Center STORY & PHOTOS BY CORY DIAZ

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hen it comes to nature, nothing beats a hands-on learning experience. Now the Alabama Nature Center (ANC) has brought the outdoor experience indoors with the opening of the Ireland NaturePlex at the Alabama Wildlife Federation (AWF) in Millbrook. The NaturePlex, which opened Oct. 9, will teach children, as well as adults, about the beauty of Alabama’s wildlife. The 23,000-square-foot facility includes a 120-seat movie theater; a Discovery Hall, full of hands-on wildlife displays; educational classrooms; rentable community rooms; and a gift shop. “It’s rain or shine,” ANC communications specialist Marla Ruskin said. “We can educate the kids, give them a handson learning experience and still get across our conservation message; whereas before, it was all done in the outdoors. We didn’t have an indoor facility to utilize.” The ANC already serves about 15,000 annual visitors. With the addition of the NaturePlex, the ANC expects a 50 percent increase in annual visitors, providing the organization more opportunity to spread the word about nature appreciation and conservation in Elmore County and beyond. Six days out of every week, visitors to the NaturePlex can enjoy 5 miles of boardwalks and trails circling the Nature Center’s grounds, and they can participate in scheduled, professionally led nature programs. “We’re more open to the general public now. We’re open Monday through Saturday, not just every third weekend of

the month,” Ruskin said. “The amount of people, kids as well as adults, that we can reach with the NaturePlex is going to be huge.” One popular new feature, Discovery Hall, allows patrons a walking historical tour of the state of Alabama and its four physiographic regions. The interactive room has exhibits featuring Alabama’s native creatures, including a clear honey bee display that lets visitors watch and learn as the bees construct and navigate their hives. There is a walk-in cave exhibit, which showcases creatures that inhabit Alabama’s cavernous regions. Storyboards dot the room, complete with photos and fact boards about unique species of frogs, birds, mussels and fish, among other animals native to the state. In addition, the NaturePlex will feature Thursday night educational programs for the entire family. “We understand the power of the outdoors as a teaching and learning tool, and we want to share that in a high quality way that will have a positive impact on people and our natural resources for generations to come,” said Tim Gothard, AWF executive director. “We have fully accomplished that with Phase I, and now Phase II, of the Alabama Nature Center.” As the NaturePlex opens a more modern, interactive and engaging era, Ruskin said, they can enhance the ANC’s teaching and foster a love for the outdoors in all that visit. “Hearing the kids and the adults, and their reactions in the Discovery Hall, has been great. They get to touch and see and experience things firsthand that they normally might not be able to do,” Ruskin said.

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Atchison photo takes top honors at Art Guild show Story by Betsy Iler Photos by Suellen Young

n his first year of membership, Wayne Atchison took Best of Show at this year’s Elmore County Art Guild (ECAG) annual show at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. Atchison’s work also placed first in the Photography & Printmaking category. A hobby photographer, Atchison took the winning photograph, entitled Hidden Moon, with a Nikon D7000 camera affixed with a 600-millimeter lens. He shot the photo in manual mode at 2:30 a.m. on during a lunar eclipse on Oct. 8, 2014. “We live on the lake, and from the land side, the trees blocked the view of the eclipse, so we went to the boat dock where we could get a clear view,” Atchison said. “I took between 70 and 80 shots during the event to make sure I captured the whole process from beginning to end.” Though light pollution was at a minimum on the dark lake, the eclipse was reflected in a nearby cloud, producing the effect of a mirrored image in the un-retouched photograph, Atchison said. “I saw that, and I tried to get that in the image. The next day, I searched through the images to find one that accomplished what I wanted to accomplish. It took a while to find

that image with the hidden moon,” he said. “I didn’t do any cropping or changing the image on the computer. I don’t even own a PhotoShop program. I just use images the way they come out of the camera.” Though Atchison’s wife, Kathy, is a longtime member of the Elmore County Art Guild (ECAG), he only joined the organization last year after his work was part of a gallery exhibit focused on the Wetumpka Impact Crater. This year's ECAG show included 69 entries from 29 artists, said president Shirley Esco. "Our judge this year was Birmingham artist Carolyn Goldsmith. She is a very well known and well respected artist, and she did a wonderful job," Esco said. Goldsmith's works have been published in Southern Living, Traditional Home, House and Garden and Architectural Digest. “It was wonderful to see the quantity, diversity and quality of the work from your local and regional artists,” Goldsmith wrote in her statement to the entrants. Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis presented the artist awards at a Nov. 5 reception that was attended by artists, their families and friends. “I look forward to this show every year,” Willis said. “It’s always fun. There is so much talent in this area. Art makes a difference in our

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Best in Show & First Place Photography & Printmaking Hidden Moon Photograph By Wayne Atchison lives.” The show features the works of several wellknown artists in the area, including Esco's acrylic Bridge Over The Coosa, which took first place in the Two-Dimensional Not Under Glass category. Carol Barksdale’s watercolor titled Organically Grown took first in Two-Dimensional Under Glass, and Teresa Womble used a gourd as the palette for her Fish Canister, which won first place in the 3-D, Sculpture & Pottery division. ECAG was founded in 1985 to promote the appreciation of visual arts and the cultural benefits and social enlightenment that art brings to the community. In addition to its annual show, guild members exhibit their works at the Wetumpka Depot Theater and the Wetumpka

Library and individually promote art through projects with seniors and children and display their works in local hospitals. The guild also sponsors a number of community outreach art projects, Esco said. Membership in the guild is open to anyone over the age of 18 who is interested in supporting and promoting the arts. For membership information, visit the ECAG website at www.ElmoreCountyArtGuild.com. The show will remain on exhibit at the gallery through Dec. 29. The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery is located on the second floor of the City of Wetumpka Administration Building at 408 S. Main St., Wetumpka. For information about the gallery, visit kfmg-online.org or look up the gallery’s Facebook page.

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Second Place Two-Dimensional Not Under Glass Good Coffee Oil Painting By Theresa Wayne

Honorable Mention Buoy Bounty Acrylic Painting By Carol Hickman 16

First Place Two-Dimensional Under Glass Organically Grown Watercolor By Carol Barksdale ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

Second Place 3-D, Sculpture & Pottery Coffee Service Pottery By Stephen Cappelli

Second Place Two-Dimensional Under Glass Peace IV Pastels By Doris Bell

First Place Two-Dimensional Not Under Glass Bridge Over The Coosa Acrylic Painting By Shirley Esco

First Place 3-D, Sculpture & Pottery Fish Canister Gourd By Teresa Womble

Third Place Two-Dimensional Under Glass Faster! Pastels By Kathy Atchison ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

Honorable Mention Sunflower Watercolors By Marjorie Hinder

Third Place Photography & Printmaking Vertical Fallout Photography By Libby Christensen 18

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WIN A $500 VISA GIFT CARD What do you do for fun in Elmore County? Where do you shop? Answer questions like these and others in a quick 10 minute online survey. www.pluseresearch.com/ shoppingsurvey

YOUR OPINION MATTERS! COMPLETE THE SURVEY AND YOU WILL BE ENTERED TO WIN! Please take some time to tell Pulse Research, an independent research firm, a little about your shopping plans. Don’t worry, it’s totally confidential. You must be at least 18 years old to respond to this survey. (You must be a Elmore County resident). In appreciation, you will be entered to win one of two $500 prepaid VISA cards. These drawings are sponsored by Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011. For official rules and regulations please click on the “Rules” link at the bottom of the survey website. www.pluseresearch.com/shoppingsurvey ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

An Eclectic Christmas Story by Mia Osborn Photos courtesy of An Eclectic Christmas

t the Falk Farm south of Eclectic every December, The Greatest Story Ever Told becomes The Greatest Story Ever Experienced. From the moment they arrive at the farm between Dec. 1 and 8, visitors this year will be transported to the first century, where they’ll play the roles of Roman citizens making the journey to Bethlehem to be taxed, just like Mary and Joseph did 2,000 years ago. Along the way, they will meet soldiers, wise men, angels and the common people of the small town. It’s a story that most people know, but the event’s public relations director Jonalan Wright hinted that there would be some surprises in this year’s program. “There is a new scene this year. We’re not really telling people what it is,” Wright said. Developers of the new scene – like those of the hillside of angels and the vendors in the street – have made every effort to keep structures, clothing and props accurate to the biblical time period. “For the 45 minutes that it takes to go through, you literally forget where you are,” said Wright. “The only way to describe it is an experience.” It’s an experience that requires a dedicated team of 200 volunteers who are integral to every step of the process, from acting in various scenes to cooking meals to keep participants fed and warm during the long December nights of set up, rehearsals and performances.

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Each December, An Eclectic Christmas brings the nativity story to life

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Visitors meet Mary, Joseph and other biblical characters at the Falk Farm Next page: Volunteers fill the roles of Bethlehem villagers to immerse visitors in the time period

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Last year, this unpaid team ushered more than 4,000 visitors through An Eclectic Christmas during its weeklong run. The Biblical time warp that grew into An Eclectic Christmas began in the 1990s when Ann Bearden of Eclectic’s First Baptist Church gave a walking tour of scenes from the Christmas story. The event was originally called the Back 40 Ministry because it was held on the back 40 acres of Bearden’s land. Now in its eighth year at the Falk Farm, the event is no longer managed by Bearden. Nor does First Baptist solely run it. Instead, a board of 11 members forms An Eclectic Ministry. The Ministry is made up of members from several church congregations that all work together to bring the story of Jesus’ birth to life. “Last year, 23 area churches came together,” said Wright. “There’s not a single church that runs this.” Getting 23 churches of different denominations to agree on all the details of such a large-scale project is a miraculous feat, indeed. Wright credits the cooperation and success of the enterprise to divine help. “You can’t bring 23 churches together and not have a problem. Yet, we do it every year,” he said. “We don’t do it, though. That’s the key. The reason it works so well is because we basically stay out of it and let the Lord work.” Although management has changed since An Eclectic

Christmas began, the visitors’ experiences are much the same as in the ‘90s. “Everything is interactive,” said Wright. This year’s program will run from Dec. 1 through 8, with walks starting every 15 minutes between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to register on the web at www. aneclecticministry.org. Registration helps to keep the flow of visitors organized and the groups small, but walk-ins also are welcome, Wright said. As a registered nonprofit, An Eclectic Ministry relies on donations of money, goods and time to keep the event running; however, neither web registered nor walk-in visitors are charged for their visits. Wright stresses that although donations are accepted, profit is not the point of An Eclectic Ministry. “There has never been an admission charge, and there never will be,” he said. Wright also expressed his gratitude to the local businesses whose donations have made An Eclectic Christmas possible. He encourages others to do the same. “What we need people to know is that supporting these local businesses is extremely important,” Wright said. “This is how we’re able to bring An Eclectic Christmas to life.” Falk Farm is located at 1733 Claude Road, Eclectic Alabama, 36024, just south of Eclectic on Alabama Highway 63.

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Even pets can get in on the action at Christmas on the Coosa

Kids meet their heroes at the annual Character Breakfast Santa's arrival is always the highlight of the celebration

Wetumpka Elementary's Clown Troupe

Horses trot alongside parade floats

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Christmas on the Coosa

Story by Kevin Taylor

Christmas of Giving” is the theme for this year’s Christmas on the Coosa festivities, which are set to begin Dec. 1 with photos with Santa and end Dec. 14 with a Christmas concert at the civic center. “It’s a unique event Wetumpka offers that you can’t get anywhere else,” said Tiffany Robinson, special events and tourism manager for the City of Wetumpka. “People are always looking for a family friendly event, and Christmas on the Coosa has something for all ages. The atmosphere is magical, inviting and continues to enhance the quality of life in Wetumpka.” Christmas on the Coosa had its beginnings more than 40 years ago, and the event grows each year as families from around the state come to join the celebration. “We chose this theme because it’s important to put the giving spirit back in Christmas,” Robinson said. “We hope we can encourage our participants to give back as well.” Robinson said a good example of giving back is what each participant in this year’s Christmas on the Coosa Pageant donated. Each contestant donated paper products to the police department, which in turn uses those products during its monthly feeding of the homeless. This year’s events will kick off at 5 p.m. in Gold Star Park on Dec. 1 when children line up for pictures with the jolly old man himself, Santa Claus. At 6 p.m., the Wetumpka Middle School band will perform favorite Christmas tunes for the annual lighting of the city’s Christmas tree. On Dec. 4, area churches will host the annual Nativity event as viewers line the downtown streets and place luminaries, which can be purchased for $10 for a pack of 10 from Robinson’s office at City Hall. The downtown area will be closed to traffic for this

event, and businesses will hold their annual open house with refreshments, special music and sales. City businesses and residents will display their holiday cheer with storefront and front door decorations on Dec. 8. A panel of judges will tour the city to decide who has the most jolly of all decorations. All the activities build to the crescendo on Dec. 12 with a daylong celebration that starts at 7:30 a.m. with the first seating of the annual Character Breakfast. Cinderella, Capt. America and other favorite cartoon characters will breakfast with the children at the Wetumpka Civic Center again at 9 a.m. “I think the word of mouth has helped it grow and also the increase in families moving into the area,” Robinson explained. “The children have a great time interacting with the characters they only see on TV or read about in books.” Arts and crafts vendors will offer unique gift creations from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. as families begin to line the streets for the annual Christmas parade at 2 p.m. Santa will roll down Main Street in the parade, which last year showcased more than 100 entries. Following the parade, Wetumpka’s “So You Think You Can Cook” competition will take place between cooking teams. “That event was originally scheduled for July, but it was rained out,” Robinson explained. And just after dark, the annual boat parade will make its way along the Gold Star Park riverbanks, followed by a holiday fireworks display. The final Christmas on the Coosa event will be held Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. when The LeFevre Quartet and Wilburn & Wilburn will present a Christmas Gospel Concert at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Tickets are $10 and are available at City Hall, Robinson said.

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Tallassee Christmas Tradition

All are welcome at the Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 4

Story by Carmen Rodgers

allassee this month will hang Christmas decorations on light posts throughout the city, signaling the start of this year’s Christmas celebrations. The festivities will kick off Friday, Dec. 4 with the annual Holiday Market at noon in Veterans Park on Freeman Avenue, where vendors will offer handmade crafts, art, candles, soaps, jewelry, pottery, ornaments and decorations, as well as home-baked treats and confections. The Holiday Market also will be open on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Bring the children to the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 4, as Mayor Bobby Payne will invite them to help him count down to the official lighting of the tree. At 7 p.m., McCraney-Cottle Arts Council will present Music of the Season under the direction of Jerry Cunningham with religious and pop musical selections to wake up the Christmas spirit in everyone. The next morning, the Christmas parade will march

through town at 10 a.m. with bands, floats and decorated vehicles, dance teams, team mascots and other costumed paraders. Santa will make his official appearance in the parade as well. The arts council also will host a Holiday Tour of City Churches, Dec. 12. Call 334-201-4892 for details. First United Methodist Church will present a Christmas Cantata at 6 p.m. Dec. 13, and First Baptist Church of Tallassee will stage a musical Christams drama, Starry Night, Dec. 13 at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Southside Middle School’s Christmas concert will be held at the high school auditiorium at 7 p.m. on Dec. 14 , and the Tallassee High School combined choir and band will present a concert in the auditorium at 7 p.m. Dec. 15. On Dec. 21, the Tallassee Historical Preservation Society invites the public to A Christmas Gathering at the historic 1897 Superintendent’s house on Lower Tuskegee Road. Find a map at sites.google.com/site/christmasintallassee, where you also will find more details about the season’s celebrations in Tallassee.

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Children wave from a float in last year's Spirit of Christmas parade

Christmas in Millbrook

Story by Mia Osborn

veryone is invited to set up chairs on the Village Green at 6 p.m. Dec. 3 to watch the city’s Christmas tree sparkle to life when Mayor Al Kelley flips the switch and officially opens the Christmas season in Millbrook. Local school and church choirs will sing carols at the event, and holiday refreshments will be available. There also will be a live Nativity scene. The Spirit of Christmas Festival will take place Saturday, Dec. 5. Admission to the festival is always free; however, visitors may want to bring money to stock up on snacks and Christmas gifts from the local vendors who will set up on the grass at Village Green Park. “We should have between 30 and 50 vendor booths,” said booth coordinator Celie Allen. Allen said vendors will sell everything from concessions to unique arts and crafts from their booths, which will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 5. Starting at 10 a.m., festivalgoers can watch performances by square dancers and other local entertainers on the covered stage. And Santa Claus and his lovely wife will greet chil-

dren in the Leyburn Memorial Gazebo from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Chrietzberg Photography will be there to take pictures of children with Santa. Santa and Mrs. Claus will appear again in the Spirit of Christmas Parade, which will begin at 2 p.m. This year’s theme is “A Miracle on Main Street.” Festival Chair Kathy Kelley explained that the theme is designed to honor the parade’s grand marshals, which this year include owners of some of the oldest businesses in the city. This year’s Spirit of Christmas Parade aims to highlight the remarkable achievements of the city’s most enduring businesses while also spreading the holiday cheer. In some cases, these Main Street staples have provided for Millbrook since before the town was established. “Some of these places have been in business since before they needed a city license,” said Kelley. The parade route will start at the Sports Complex behind Smokehouse Barbecue and will end in front of City Hall. There will also be a contest in which parade floats are judged on how well they represent the parade’s theme.

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Kathy Willis Music is mission for the former principal of Wetumpka Elementary School Story by Mia Osborn Photos by Suellen Young

usic is my first love,” said Kathy Willis. The former longtime principal of Wetumpka Elementary School can’t remember a time before music

shaped her life. “I think music fills you in a way nothing else can. Whether you’re sad or you’re happy, music can change your whole mood,” she said. Willis is a Wetumpka native who began taking piano lessons in the third grade. These lessons helped build the skills she needed to become the organist for her church, First United Methodist Church of Wetumpka, while she was still in high school. The lessons also provided a foundation on which she could further her study of music at the University of Alabama. When she became principal, her Kathy Willis fell musical background helped her to in love with the implement programs that brought harp when she the fine arts into the lives of hunwas a little girl dreds of students. But it almost didn’t happen at all. Willis said that it was difficult to get her musical education off the ground. When she was young, there were no art or music teachers at local schools, and private music tutors were hard to find. “We had a few mothers who tried to get teachers to come in from Montgomery,” she recalled. “They taught private piano lessons with the piano on stage at the school or across the street at someone’s house. They taught anywhere they could.” Willis said she is still grateful

to the adults who fought to bring music lessons into the town and to the teachers who trekked all the way from Montgomery to foster in her and other students a lifelong love of music. Though she changed her major from piano to education in her junior year of college, Willis continued to play the church organ when she came home in the summers. When she got her first job teaching fourth grade at Wetumpka Elementary, she became a private music teacher, too. Willis tutored students in private piano lessons after school. She soon grew tired of working two jobs, but she knew she was providing a valuable service to a school that, at the time, still had no music or arts teachers. It wasn’t until Willis took the job of principal at Wetumpka Elementary that she found a way to fill the void of arts education for all of her students at once. “The arts are so important, and many children don’t have the opportunity to experience them. I decided that we were going to provide this for our students the best way we could,” she said. Willis created three programs to get kids involved in the arts: First Friday; Art in the Afternoon; and Art Under the Stars. In the First Friday program, a volunteer artist or musician set up near the school’s entry at 7 a.m. on the first Friday of each month. As students came into the school, they were able to watch the artist work and ask questions about the craft each performed. Art in the Afternoon took this

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Willis plays in her Wetumpka home

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Willis with her husband, Mayor Jerry Willis

A love of the arts has followed Willis through her life.

idea a step further, with artists teaching large groups of children one-day-only lessons in a variety of mediums, such as painting, drawing and pottery. Art Under the Stars was the most long-term project. Each grade at Wetumpka Elementary was assigned a famous artist. The students studied their artists’ lives and created art in the style of those artists. Then one night near the end of the school year, students and parents were invited to view the student artwork in a gallery-like atmosphere. Willis took joy in making this a special night for her students. “We served punch and had people playing music,” Willis recalled. “The students loved it; they were so proud of their work. I still have some of their pieces.” While she worked to bring art teachers into Wetumpka’s schools, Willis was looking for a teacher as well. Since her own childhood, she had dreamed of playing the harp. Many years passed before that dream had a chance to come true. Harps were difficult to find, especially in the days before the Internet. “It was not like buying other instruments,” said Willis. “You don’t walk into a music store and buy a harp like you do the piano.” She was finally able to find a harp at the Roman Harp Company in Florida. Willis drove all the way to Tallahassee to bring back the instrument she had waited so long for. Once she had the harp, Willis had to find someone to teach her how to play it. Help came from a harpist for the Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Willis remembered driving four hours a day to learn. “It was tough, because I was still working. I would jump in my car right after school and drive to Birmingham; take a lesson; drive straight home and be at work the next morning at 7 a.m.,” she said. Willis’ dedication to learning paid off. The harp remains one of her favorite instruments to play. Although she rarely performs in public, she enjoys playing for her husband, Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis. The harp gives her a great deal of personal satisfaction, as does her continued involvement in the arts. Willis has been retired from the school system for three years. The programs she started in her time as principal now serve as a basis for arts programs in schools throughout Elmore County. Willis’ children and grandchildren attended Wetumpka city schools, and her grandchildren have benefitted from the arts curriculum she helped put in place. Willis still plays the organ at the First United Methodist Church of Wetumpka, as she has done on and off since high school. In addition, she is a member of the board at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery. Music may be her first love, but Willis would like to see all the arts flourish in Elmore County. “I feel like when God gives you a gift, he expects you to use it,” she said.

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2015

Kowaliga Restaurant gift cards are a perfect way to treat family and friends to lunch or dinner on beautiful Lake Martin. Stop by to see all the branded merchandise…. T-shirts, hats and koozies make great stocking stuffers. Kowaliga Restaurant www.KowaligaRestaurant.com

For the foodie on your list, give a Catherine’s Market gift basket or gift card. Sure to please with wine options, gift items, natural and organic products, premium meats, cheeses, seafood and made-from scratch pastries and bakery items. Located in the heart of Russell Crossroads. Catherine’s Market www.CatherinesAtCrossroads.com

Shopping for the water enthusiast on your list? Visit Russell Marine and receive 25% OFF All Pro Shop merchandise – including the NEW 2016 wakeboards, surfboards, skis and accessories. Visit RussellMarine.net and remember to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.

Gift certificates from SpringHouse make the best gifts for the dining aficionado. They can be redeemed for dinner or Sunday brunch. The experience of dining with Chef Rob at SpringHouse is something that will become a holiday tradition. SpringHouse www.SpringHouseatCrossroads.com

Schedule a guided trail ride in the beautiful Russell Forest. Or a gift card just might be the perfect surprise for horse enthusiasts on your Christmas list. The Stables at Russell Crossroads www.RussellCrossroads.com

Yeti items are at the top of everyone’s Christmas list this year! Come by Russell Do it Center in Alex City and Eclectic and check out our line of Yeti coolers, accessories and so much more! Don’t forget, we also have gift cards! Russell Do it Center www.RussellDoitCenter.com

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Changing face of Elmore County

In the last 25 years, Elmore County has experienced a population growth of 40 percent. How has that growth changed the quality of life here? And how have newcomers adapted and become part of the economic, social and cultural life of Elmore County? In this first article in a three-part series, Elmore County Living magazine visited with three families who recently moved to the area from Montgomery. Take an active part in this article series by completing the survey on the Elmore County Living magazine webpage at www.thewetumpkaherald.com/category/Elmore-county-living, and you might win $500! Post comments on our Facebook page, Twitter, Tumblr and Instagram accounts under #MovingtoElmoreCounty; or email editor@lakemartinlivingmagazine.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Stubers sought stability The Stuber family moved to Wetumpka from Montgomery in July 2014. Parents Patric and Susan both grew up in the rural Midwest – Patric in Kansas and Susan in Nebraska – and his country childhood has given him a lifelong love of small towns, Patric said. He and Susan wanted their four kids to experience the joys of a childhood spent in nature. Before the Stubers thought of moving to Elmore County, they spent a year living in the Deer Creek region of Montgomery, where Patric is an operations officer for the 926 Engineer Brigade of the Army Reserve. It soon became clear to the Stubers that they weren’t fans of the neighborhood’s high turnover rate. “Deer Creek was more transient, what with all the military students at the Air Force College,” said Patric. “My kids went to one year of school in Montgomery, but they weren’t going to see their friends again, because their parents were bouncing around.” Patric and Susan wanted a more stable situation for their two sets of twins: Benjamin and Nicholas, 9, and Eliza and Elaine, 8. The couple started asking around, and Elmore County came highly recommended. “One, everyone I talked to said Wetumpka was a very good place for families,” Patric said. “Two, the terrain and the woods were very important to us.” When they considered the homes in the area, the couple fell in love with the land available and chose a house on eight acres. “It’s gorgeous here. We’re on a double lot, so we can’t

even see our neighbors,” said Patric. The family’s eight-acre lot is home to roaming deer and offers plenty of room for the kids to play. According to Patric, the move came with peace of mind. “I’m not worried about crime or congested traffic out here,” he said. But solitude doesn’t mean being far from civilization. “If I hit four lights right, I’m 11 minutes from work. It’s awesome,” Patric said. Susan Stuber said she appreciates that Montgomery is close enough for the family to visit restaurants or the Shakespeare Festival, but her family spends most of their time and money in Wetumpka. “We do all of our grocery shopping for our family in Wetumpka and eat at home most of the time,” she said. Susan estimated the family spends upwards of $800 each month on groceries and household items, all purchased in Elmore County. Sticking to local stores has proven to be the most economical option for the family, she said. “If we can’t find something here in Wetumpka, we tend to assess whether we really need it; then, we generally purchase online when we do,” she said. The Stuber children all attend Elmore County schools. Benjamin and Nicholas are members of Boy Scout Troop 50, based in Wetumpka, and participating in their kids’ activities has helped Patric and Susan connect with other parents. “I know all my neighbors,” said Patric Stuber. “They’re all longstanding residents of the area. It’s a more stable community.”

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Patric and Susan Stuber with their kids: Benjamin, Nicholas, Eliza, and Elaine

Story by Mia Osborn & Betsy Iler Photos by Suellen Young ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

Logans look for security When Christy and Jeremy Logan got engaged, they had a lot of choices to make, one of which was deciding where to live. Christy had lived in Elmore County as a girl, but she’d moved to Montgomery right after college and was established there when she became engaged to Jeremy. Both Jeremy and Christy work in the city, so it made sense to them to start their search for a family home in the Montgomery area; but none of the houses the couple looked at were in keeping with their plans for the future. “We knew we wanted to have children,” said Christy. That meant searching for a safe community with access to a good education. After a period of searching, they decided the best move would be no move at all. Jeremy already lived in the Redland area of Wetumpka. Christy sold her house in Montgomery and moved to join him in starting a family. For Christy, the biggest selling point of Jeremy’s house was the Elmore County school system. “We’ve got Redland Elementary right down the road,” she said. The school, which was then brand new, was the deciding factor that made Christy return to Elmore County. That was six years ago. The Logans now have two children, 5-year-old Alora and 3-year-old Archer. Both generations of the Logan family are enjoying life in Elmore County. According to Christy, one of the most notable differences between Montgomery and Wetumpka is the noise level. “Where I lived before, the hospital was right there. Now, I don’t hear sirens all the time,” she said. Wetumpka is the perfect place for Jeremy and Christy to enjoy their favorite hobby: running. “Wetumpka has a bike lane, and there’s not as much traffic, so it’s safer for us to run,” said Christy. Still, the privacy of Elmore County does have some drawbacks, she said.

Christy and Jeremy celebrate Halloween at their Wetumpka home with kids Archer and Alora “Montgomery has the benefit of everything being close by,” Christy admitted. Her biggest adjustment to country life has been learning to budget more time for shopping, since the stores are farther away than they were in Montgomery. The Logans divide their shopping for groceries and other necessities between Wetumpka and Montgomery. Christy said her family’s biggest investment in the community comes from the kids’ schooling and activities. “Alora goes to Redland Elementary, so we’re putting money there. She does dance, too, at Leap of Faith in Wetumpka,” she said. For his part, Archer takes toddler gymnastics at The Flip Factory, a Wetumpka-based moveable gym that travels to area preschools. The Logans also take advantage of Redland Elementary’s after school programs. Like their kids, Christy and Jeremy have found a sense of community through their hobbies. The couple loves to spend time with their running group. For the Logans, Elmore County has the right balance of security, community and serenity.

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Kellers came for peace of mind Though they had lived in Montgomery for 30 years and raised their own children in the city, Karen and Bruce Keller wanted something different when they found themselves raising their grandson, Noah, now 11 years old. “He wasn’t able to go out and ride his bicycle,” Karen said. “I would worry. I didn’t want him to go out the door. Because of the crime in Montgomery, we had to be more cautious.” So the Kellers started looking for another place to live. Their criteria included good public schools and a peaceful, low-key lifestyle. They also wanted to be closer to family who had already settled in Elmore County. Karen wanted more backyard space, as the family had recently adopted an Australian shepherd that needed room to run and play. “I work at Auburn University – Montgomery, and when I asked around to the faculty in the College of Education, they said, ‘You need to move to Elmore County. They have some of the best schools in the area.’” They built a house in Holtville this time last year, and since then, the Kellers have become enthusiastic cheerleaders for the community. From Noah’s school experiences to shopping and enjoying the country life, Karen couldn’t say enough about how much-improved the family’s life is in Elmore County. “Noah played on a Little League team, and it feels like we are part of a family. The coaches took extra time to work with him, so he really felt like an important part of the team. You don’t get that in the city,” she said. “People take the time to care about each other, to really connect with each other. They are warmer and friendlier, more down to earth. “We have neighbors who will help you out and want you to be part of their community, part of their extended family,” she said. “In public school, the teachers work with the children, develop them as individuals, not just as a class of children. “Noah is able to go out and ride his bicycle, and living in the country, we walked outside one night, and he said, ‘There’s stars in the sky.’ He never could see them with all the city lights,” she said. Though she works in Montgomery, Karen said, she

doesn’t shop there. “If I am not at work, you can’t drag me to Montgomery,” she said. “I don’t feel like I need to come to Montgomery for anything.” The family does most of their shopping in Wetumpka or Prattville, and in the year since their move, they’ve made an effort to support the local businesses. “We go to restaurants or other businesses in the community, and it’s not just taking your money. They want you to come back, to be part of their community. We found a doughnut shop in Millbrook, and we love to go to the local places. The business owners have been absolutely wonderful.

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Karen and Bruce Keller wanted more opportunities for grandson Noah

Bibb's cabin still stands on AWF property in Millbrook

The Rev. Peyton Bibb Larry Johnson

BACK IN THE DAY

Larry John-

son now lives

Robinson Springs, just a

few miles south of where he

ElAlabama.

grew up at more,

I was completely surprised when I learned that the 14.81 acres I call home in Robinson Springs, within the city limits of Millbrook, was first patented by the Rev. Peyton Bibb (1785-1840). The Bibb family was monumental in the early establishment and development of Alabama, particularly what is now the western portion of Elmore County. The two most recognized names of the Bibb family are perhaps the two older brothers of Peyton; William Wyatt Bibb (1781-1820) M.D., the first governor of Alabama whose home was in Coosada, near Robinson Springs; and Thomas Bibb (1783-1839), the second governor of Alabama who resided in Huntsville. The patriarch of the family, Benjamin Bibb, immigrated to America from Wales, Great Britain, and settled in Prince Edward County, Virginia. The Bibb family was prominent in the American Revolution, and after that war, several of them caught “Alabama fever,” and

“removed” to the new territory when it was opened in 1818. Some came to this area even before that. Peyton Bibb married Martha Cobb of Columbia County, Georgia, and brought his bride to Alabama. The cabin he built at Lanark still stands today on property that is owned by the Alabama Wildlife Federation. The Rev. Bibb is credited with establishing the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, at Robinson Springs in 1828. The first worship buildings were log structures on a hill that is known today as Paige Hill with a beautiful view overlooking a meadow, which now is the Wetumpka Municipal Airport. A more permanent building for the church was completed in 1845; however, Bibb did not live to see its completion. He died in 1840, but his vision and leadership laid the foundation to what today is the Robinson Springs United Methodist Church

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located in the heart of Robinson Springs. Peyton Bibb was not only a minister and preacher but also a planter and entrepreneur. He established a line of steamboats that ran from above Montgomery to Mobile before the time of railroads. The steamboats traveled the Alabama River from Mobile to Wetumpka. There is a story that the City of Montgomery attempted to impose a tariff on all steamboat traffic traveling around the great river bend at Montgomery. The tariff was lifted when it was reported that Peyton Bibb was digging a canal northeast of Montgomery to bypass the city and connect with the Alabama River near Prattville, just south of Millbrook, almost on the current day Elmore County line that separates Elmore and Montgomery counties. Peyton Bibb had another brother, John The Bibb family has a long Dandridge Bibb, who history in Elmore County was one year his junior. John, an attorney turned planter, resided in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1818. His fifth child and son, William Crawford Bibb, was born in Montgomery in 1820 and later became judge of the Territorial Court, a state senator and a member of the Constitutional Convention. He was reported to be of much culture and very caring of his family’s lineage. He has a story so intriguing that it must be included with this writing. In the spring of 1865, Mr. Bibb, after a conversation with Governor Watts, undertook a mission to Washington to interview Mr. Lincoln. Based on his family name, he was given passport without being called upon to take the oath of allegiance, even though General Lee had not yet surrendered at that point. The surrender occurred before the meeting, but Mr. Bibb decided to keep the appointment. The following was reported by Mr. William Bibb: “We arrived at the White House on time, and without the usual formalities I was introduced to Mr. Lincoln: I was struck with astonishment at his homely face and ungainly appearance, but the total absence of all effort to impress one with the fact he was President of the United States, and the kind and informal manner of his reception excited my admiration; handing me a chair and requesting me to be seated, then drawing his chair a little back from his table, he slid into it, gave his legs

a fling over the arm and clasping his hands around his knees, reminded me of some country farmer who had fixed himself for a long comfortable chat with his neighbor. ….. “‘Mr. Lincoln, I would be glad to be able to say that your plan of reconstruction will be marked with leniency and liberality.’ He asked if I had heard his speech of last night, and his proclamation of general amnesty.” He continued: ‘I love the Southern people more than they love me. My desire is to restore the Union. I do not intend to hurt the hair of the head of a single man in the South if it can possibly be avoided’… I said, ‘I believe the Union restored under a liberal policy would become more strongly united than ever; that both sections had suffered and through that suffering, wiser, calmer and greater forbearance would prevail.’ … “In five minutes after meeting him I had felt my prejudices fast melting away and being supplanted by a high appreciation of the man, and in conclusion, the idea was forced upon me that of all previous men I had ever met, this was the noblest Roman of them all. ... “Two hours were thus consumed and I arose ... and with a grateful heart, and a cordial farewell, I took my departure.” On his return home and upon learning of the President’s assassination, Mr. Bibb said, “The attack was made upon the two most conservative men, Lincoln and Seward, who if they had lived, would have prevented, in united action, the horrors of the years that followed Lee’s surrender.” Mr. Bibb returned to Montgomery, Alabama, to find his home in ruins. There are many more influential members of the Bibb family of Alabama, far too many to mention in a single article. Their influence on this state and county will be felt for years and years to come. Living on Peyton Bibb’s former property, and having at one time worshipped at the Robinson Springs United Methodist Church, I feel a weird kind of kinship to the Bibbs and hold them in high esteem for their contribution to the development of our state and county.

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Holiday Film Treats

The holiday movie season is already in full swing, and if you are not in the mood to brave the multiplex, feel free to sample some of these holiday film treats, from the delightful to the deranged, in the cozy comfort of your home: Why not get started with a Tim Burton double feature? The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) Dazzling director Tim Burton produced and conceived this stop motion dark fantasy musical film that tells the story of Jack Skellington and his adventures in “Halloween Town” and “Christmas Town.” Longtime Burton collaborator Danny Elfman provides the unforgettable score. Edward Scissorhands (1990) Directed by Tim

Burton and starring Johnny Depp as an artificial man named Edward who has scissors for hands. Director Burton demonstrates his usual flair for combining quirky characters and situations with generous doses of humor and heart. The film is bolstered by a strong supporting cast that includes Winona Ryder, Dianne Wiest, Kathy Baker, Alan Arkin, and screen legend Vincent Price in one of his final screen appearances. Meet Me in St. Louis (1944) This classic MetroGoldwyn-Mayer musical tells the story of a family living in St. Louis, Missouri, during the 1904 World’s Fair. It is important to note that the film’s director, Vincente Minnelli, met star Judy Garland on the set and later married her. This family treat debuted the classic songs “The Trolley Song” and “Have Yourself

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a Merry Little Christmas,” which are still beloved today. Black Christmas (1974) This cult classic, generally regarded as one of the earliest slasher films, features murder and mayhem in a sorority house during the holiday season. It stars Olivia Hussey, Margot Kidder and John Saxon. This is definitely not your typical Christmas movie fare. Love Actually (2003) This Christmasthemed romantic comedy film explores different aspects of love as shown through 10 separate, yet inevitably intertwined stories. Set primarily in London, Love Actually has become a holiday film staple in many homes. The sparkling, all-star cast includes

Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman and Keira Knightley.

While You Were Sleeping (1995) The double punch of the blockbuster hit, Speed, and this film helped Sandra Bullock ascend to box office queen. Bullock shines as Lucy, a lonely Chicago Transit Authority token collector whose heroic actions lead to love and laugher and happy ever after. Peter Boyle, Glynis Johns, Jack Warden, Bill Pullman and Peter Gallagher round out the cast for this endearing and delightful box office winner. Babes in Toyland (1961) I adored this Walt Disney Christmas musical as a child primarily because of my childhood crush on its star, Annette Funicello. Based on a 1903 operetta, this Disney treat still captivates viewers today. Scrooged (1988) Bill Murray brings his manic comic energy to this modernized remake of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. The film was produced and directed by Richard Donner (Superman the Movie, Lethal Weapon, and The Omen). Home Video Roundup The final weeks of 2015 are also an excellent time to purchase or rent the newest releases in home video entertainment. Amy (2015) This acclaimed British documentary depicts the life and death of singersongwriter Amy Winehouse. The film covers the gamut of Amy’s struggle with substance abuse, which eventually caused her premature death, as well as provides insights into her true musical genius.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 25th Anniversary Edition (1989) Since its release, Christmas Vacation has often been labeled as a modern Christmas classic. The film stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo and Randy Quaid, with Juliette Lewis and Johnny Galecki as the Griswold children. Mississippi Grind (2015) This dramedy features a down-on-his-luck gambler (Ben Mendelson) who teams up with a younger gambler (Ryan Reynolds), hoping to change his luck for the better. Several scenes were filmed in Mobile, especially around Mobile Greyhound Park. Ryan Reynolds has raved in recent interviews about how he fell in love with the city of Mobile while filming there. Go, Alabama! 90 Minutes in Heaven (2015) Based on the bestselling biographic novel by the same name, this inspiring film features the story of Don Piper (Hayden Christensen) who is pronounced dead after a horrific car crash but returns to life 90 minutes later and claims to have seen Heaven. Ant-Man (2015) The Marvel Comics superhero comes vividly to life in this blockbuster starring Paul Rudd as the title character, Evangeline Lilly, Corey Stoll and Michael Douglas in the role of Dr. Pym. The film received positive reviews and has enjoyed mammoth box office receipts. Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation (2015) The fifth installment in the Mission: Impossible series stars Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson, Ving Rhames and Alec Baldwin. In the film, IMF agent Ethan Hunt (Cruise) is on the run from the CIA, and viewers are holding onto their seats throughout this non-stop action flick. Fantastic Four (2015) Based on the Marvel Comics superhero team of the same name, this reboot of the Fantastic Four film franchise received negative reception from critics and audiences and quickly sank during its theatrical release last summer. Perhaps home video will resurrect this misbegotten saga. So, while preparing the menus for your holiday feasts, why not sample a few of the holiday film treats from this month’s list? Happy Holidays!

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Jeff Langham

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

Governmental Affairs and a lifelong lover of film.

Kathy Monroe

COMMUNITY CARE Kathy Monroe is the Assistant to the

Administrator and the CFO at Community Hospital.

It’s November, and that means Thanksgiving in America. As we busily prepare for the upcoming holidays and family gatherings, we should all make time to reflect on our blessings. An attitude of gratitude is more important than you may know. Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for blessings received and a true acknowledgement of the goodness in one’s life; yet, we officially honor that notion only once a year. A grateful heart is not just something that sounds nice at Thanksgiving. It is a lifestyle and mindset choice, not a once a year thing. So, how do we show gratitude in our life when we’re not sitting around a table filled with turkey and all the trimmings? Most people would probably agree that we have a lot for which to be thankful. By and large, families in America enjoy lifestyles full of conveniences and comfort. Most enjoy essentials, such as an abundant and clean water supply, along with plentiful and healthy food to eat. We have access to quality healthcare and education. We are basically free to live our lives as we choose. Some of us tend to focus on what we don’t have instead of what we do have in our lives. That robs us of joy and leaves us with sour attitudes and longing for what is not in our lives, instead of being grateful for what we do have. So much time is wasted reaching for something new that we hope will fill a void, instead of appreciating what we have. Happiness is not contingent upon filling every physical and material need. How do you see things in your life? Is your glass half empty or half full? How you answer this question may provide insight into your

outlook on life, as well as your attitude toward yourself and others. Are you optimistic or pessimistic? Studies show that your frame of mind can actually affect your health and wellbeing. A positive outlook and sense of gratitude shifts your mindset – takes you out of a problem and into a problem-solving state of mind. That’s an important skill to develop. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, appreciate good experiences, deal with adversity and build strong relationships. An attitude change can be the greatest stress management tool known to mankind. Gratitude, optimism, positive thinking – these traits do wonders for a person’s outlook on life. Growing evidence shows that attitude directly impacts a person’s health and sense of wellbeing. Gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with a positive outlook and greater happiness. Living your life with an attitude of gratitude does not mean that you stick your head in the sand and ignore life’s hard times. It means that you approach those unpleasant times with a more positive frame of mind. We all have something for which to be grateful, even in the most difficult situations. For example, family and friends who gather around to provide comfort and support is a blessing to be grateful for in difficult times. What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving? As for me, I am thankful for so many things, including my God, my family and my freedom. Watching my grandchildren laugh, grow, learn and dream makes my heart smile. I am grateful for these and all my many blessings, not only at Thanksgiving, but every day of the year.

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10 GAMES THAT NEED AN HD REMAKE As an avid gamer, I have spent months in front of a television or computer screen, playing all sorts of titles across a number of platforms. Some are in desperate need of a high-definition remake:

Metal Gear Solid

Metal Gear Solid did already have a remake via Nintendo’s GameCube console, which came in the form of Twin Snakes. That said, many would argue that this remake didn’t do the original justice. Twin Snakes harbored a lot of shoddy development, bad ideas and other unsavory insults to the amazing Metal Gear Solid franchise. Considering many next-generation gamers may not have ever laid their hands on the original Metal Gear, I think a high-def remake would revitalize the series in a way that another sequel or spin-off title might be incapable of doing.

X-Wing VS TIE Fighter

X-Wing VS TIE Fighter is actually an extremely sad case. The title was originally planned to be an onlineonly title, attempting to utilize an online infrastructure that wasn’t quite up to par with what developer Totally Games had in mind. In short, X-Wing VS TIE Fighter was far ahead of its time, but the world was just not ready for such a title; however, there is a new trilogy of Star Wars movies currently on the horizon, so it would very

nearly be a crime to ignore this franchise. We’re hoping that someone picks up the rights to this franchise and lifts us into the veritable stratosphere.

Syphon Filter

Syphon Filter was one of the first super spy games to ever hit the video game market. The title piggybacked off the success of Nintendo’s 1997 release of Golden Eye 007 and innovated upon the genre, laying a foundation for similar games to follow. Developer Eidetic has said that they almost stopped development on Syphon Filter multiple times because there were few games from which to draw inspiration. A new Syphon Filter would give current Metal Gear Solid titles some much-needed competition.

Spyro the Dragon

Spyro the Dragon was known for quality, simplicity and – most importantly – plain old fun. Players took on the role of a purple dragon that fights to save his fellow kin and defeat the main antagonist, Gnasty Gnorc. The world of Spyro the Dragon feels very mystical, with an art direction that is matched by almost no other game on this list. I’d love to see a remake of this game, because it brings fans of all ages together. Spyro is a character anyone can get behind. In addition, more recent Spyro titles haven’t really been hitting the mark, so maybe a return

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to the series’ roots is exactly what is needed.

Banjo Kazooie

Video games were very linear in their budding years. While non-linear games had become a consideration for developers, they were still few and far between. Nintendo published Banjo Kazooie in 1998 to rave reviews. Everyone was taken with the honey bear and his avian companion who fight together to save Banjo’s sister from Gruntilda, the mean, ugly witch. Banjo Kazooie has seen a number of sequels, but the original is what many consider the lynchpin of this franchise. Much like Spyro, Banjo Kazooie is a series that was far more impressive during its initial dive into the gaming world.

Crash Bandicoot

Crash Bandicoot first debuted in 1996 for the original Sony PlayStation. Upon this first title’s release, gamers immediately fell in love with the orange bandicoot named “Crash.” Crash Bandicoot exemplified what may have been the best platforming in video games at the time. If you look at what developer Naughty Dog has created since – Uncharted, The Last of Us and Jak and Daxter – it’s no surprise that one of their premier creations finds itself on our list. Once considered a powerhouse of the Sony brand, Crash Bandicoot has fallen out of grace with gamers in recent years; however, can you imagine what a Naughty Dog-developed Crash Bandicoot remake could be like?

System Shock

Much like the aforementioned Banjo Kazooie, System Shock is a title that utilizes a more nonlinear approach to gameplay. Released in 1994, System Shock is seen by many as an inspiration for the 2007 mega-hit Bioshock. Players take on the role of a nameless hacker who must fight off an artificial intelligence called “SHODAN.” Sadly, System Shock was a retail failure, losing more money than it cost to produce; however, System Shock is a very important title, now hailed as one of the most influential cult hits of all-time. System Shock is a prime choice, because the original has aged tremendously; furthermore, I believe the franchise would be more appreciated in a modern environment.

The Legend of Zelda

The Legend of Zelda is almost certainly one of the most illustrious game franchises out to date. Originally releasing in 1986, this first entry into the series seems far beyond due for a remake of its own. Gamers have had the

opportunity to follow Link and his fellows throughout a massive host of franchise iterations, but it’s about time Nintendo revitalized this monumental game with high-definition graphics and revamped gameplay. Considering the cash cow this series has been for Nintendo, it seems as if it would just be fair. There are many up-and-coming gamers who have no idea what the phrase, “It’s dangerous to go alone, take this!” even means.

Warcraft: Orcs and Humans

The first Warcraft game is another title that I really believed would have been the subject of a remake by now. The upcoming movie utilizing Warcraft lore will be based upon the orcs and humans story arc, so it seems like Orcs and Humans would have been the perfect candidate. While it’s probably far too late to capitalize on the movie’s hype train, we’d love the opportunity to revisit the place where this franchise started. That said, this remake seems a tough sell, especially if you consider the busy development schedule of Blizzard Entertainment, the masterminds behind this megafranchise.

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.

Pokemon Snap

So, you might be thinking to yourself, “Pokemon Snap over all of these gaming greats?” Well, let me tell you why Snap might actually be one of the most innovative games on this list. I know this choice sounds a bit crazy, but you have to look at the bigger picture. Pokemon Snap brought two things together that might never have coexisted if it weren’t for the beautiful minds at developers HAL Laboratory, Pax Softnica and Nintendo: Pokemon and photography. While gamers were used to catching, battling and breeding Pokemon via the original Red and Blue Gameboy Color versions, Snap introduced a completely new experience. The developers asked players to interact with Pokemon in a fun, nonviolent way and guess what? The innovative formula worked and was a huge success! It seems like that creative spark has dimmed quite a lot since the first few years of Pokemon’s popularity, which is pretty sad considering the huge amount of content at Nintendo’s disposal. It’s a tragedy that Nintendo hasn’t opted to recreate a bigger, better version of this classic title. The Wii U gamepad was basically made for a title such as Pokemon Snap.

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Coming Up CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 17 Veteran & Police Appreciation Night

Professional bass fisherman Clay Dyer will speak on the topic of “If I can, you can” at 6:30 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Dyer was born without lower limbs, has no left arm and only a partial right arm. This event is free to veterans and police officers. Donations to the Wetumpka Police Department Fund are appreciated and tax deductible.

Nov. 19-21 Miracle on 34th Street

Millbrook Community Theatre will present this classic tale of love, decency and generosity of spirit as Kris Kringle takes a Christmas job as Santa at a New York department store. Tickets are $11 each and can be purchased online at www.millbrooktheater.com.

Nov. 21 Coosada VFD Pancake Breakfast

Breakfast will be served from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Coosada Community Center. Advance tickets are $6, $7 at the door. Purchase tickets at Coosada Town Hall. Proceeds benefit the local volunteer fire department. For information, call Kelly at 334-313-9392.

Dec. 1-8 An Eclectic Christmas

Experience the Christmas Story firsthand at the 8th annual An Eclectic Christmas walking tours at the Falk Farm. The farm is located at 1733 Claude Road Eclectic AL, 36024, just south of Eclectic on AL Highway 63. Admission is free; donations are accepted and appreciated to help with expenses. Tour groups are scheduled in 15-minute increments. The 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. time slots on each production night are handicapped accessible. Please notify us when registering if you require assistance. See the article on page 20 for more information. Reservations are suggested and may be made by phone at 334.578.4846, by email at reservations@aneclecticministry.org, or by visiting www.aneclecticministry.org.

Dec. 1 Wetumpka Christmas Tree Lighting

The festivities begin at 5 p.m. at Gold Star Park with pictures with Santa. Wetumpka Middle School Band will play favorite holiday tunes, and the city’s tree will be lit.

Dec. 3 Millbrook Christmas Tree Lighting

The City of Millbrook will kick off the Christmas season at 6 p.m. at the Village Green with caroling and the annual tree lighting. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Dec. 4 Live Nativity/Luminary Night & Downtown Open House

Downtown Wetumpka will be alive with light and festivities as area churches join the Nativity walk through the streets. Downtown businesses will serve refreshments, and the streets will be lit with luminaries. See the article on page 25 for information.

Dec. 4 Music of the Season

Under the direction of Mr. Jerry Cunningham, Chair of the Tallassee High School Music Department, local singers will present a program of Christmas and seasonal musical selections at 7 p.m. at the Tallassee High School Auditorium. Choral, ensemble, and solo pieces in religious and pop will be included. Tickets are $10 for adults; $5 for students. For information, call Mona Mills at 334-201-4892.

Dec. 5 Millbrook “Spirit of Christmas” Parade

The parade will begin at the city’s sports complex and end at City Hall. No fee for entries but participants and vendors must turn in applications by Nov. 24. Call Kathy Kelley at 334-285-7231 or Celie Alen at 334-260-6400 for information.

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Dec. 7-8, 10-11, 13-15 Radio T.B.S.

Season-Long Events

The ladies of Luna Del Mar Manufactured Home Oasis and Monkey Emporium prepare for the annual drive by Christmas play with hilarious results. Who knew that Elvis and Scarlett O’Hara could be featured guests at the nativity? Call 334-868-1440 or visit www. wetumpkadepot.com for tickets.

Dec. 11 Merry Christmas to All

The Eclectic Christmas Parade begins at 5 p.m., followed by visits with Santa and the Town Tree Lighting Ceremony in front of Town Hall. At 7:30 p.m., the Community Choir will present a cantata, Fantasia Noel, at the high school auditorium. Then, bring out your own guitar to join in the Christmas Jam Session at 9 p.m. with national singer/songwriter Keith Moody, also at the auditorium. For more information about Eclectic’s Merry Christmas to All, call Lisa Elliott or Heather Martin at 334-541-3581.

Dec. 12 Christmas on the Coosa

Seatings are available at 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. for the annual breakfast with your favorite cartoon characters at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Arts and crafts vendors will open at 10 a.m., and the parade begins at 2 p.m., followed at 3 p.m. with the So You Think You Can Cook, Wetumpka? competition in Gold Star Park. The boats will parade at 5:30 p.m., and the evening will close with fireworks at 6 p.m. See the article on page 25 for details.

Dec. 31 City of Wetumpka New Year’s Eve Celebration

Ring in the New Year on the grounds of the Old Elmore County Courthouse in downtown Wetumpka. After a POW/MIA observance and torch ceremony at 9 p.m., there will be a DJ and concessions in the lower parking lot behind the Wetumpka Administration Building. The asteroid will fall at midnight, followed by a fireworks finale. Bring tents, tables, chairs, blankets and even fire pits for this free family event.

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.

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 334-857-2008 for information.

Master Gardeners Lunch and Learn

Bring a sack lunch to the Elmore County Extension Office in Wetumpka from noon to 1 p.m. 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 334-567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/ counties/Elmore/.

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OUT & ABOUT

Wetumpka Craterfest October 31, 2015

1. Leslie Mattox, Jason Mattox, Wade Mattox, Becky Delgado 2. Ashley Missildine, Shiloh Missildine, Haley Missildine, Michael Missildine, Alyssa MIssildine 3. Mark Scott, Aimee Scott, Garrison Scott, Everett Scott, Presley Scott

4. Jessica Crush, Payton Crush, Sarah Crush, Gigi Ratliff 5. Tori Ledbetter, Samantha Ward, Ian Johnston, Brycen Parker 6. Kitty Kelley, Rebecca Milam, Katie Milam, Ellie Milam, Aliyah Milam, Quinton Lamb

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OUT & ABOUT

4 3

26th Annual Tallassee Trade Day

October 10, 2015 1. Robin Reed 2. Becky Messer, Steven Black, Elizabeth Moulton 3. Aidan Butler 4. Tyler Harris, Jake Hill, Summer Cannon, Sage Golden, Mike Allard

5. Lacey Brewer, Sandra Patterson, Gayle Mason 6. Amy Allen 7. Lynn Sisk, David Norman

6 7

Elmore County Art Guild Show Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery November 5, 2015

1. Rhonda and Jay Sims 2. Kathy Atchison and Jack, Anna and Melanie Ruppert 3. Phillip and Donna Cantrell 4. Libby Christensen and Doris Bell 5. Sandra Gray and Adelia Turner 6. Angela and Reed Morgan 7. Henri and Stephen Cappelli and Marjorie Hinder

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OUT & ABOUT

23rd Annual Eclectic Cotton Festival Downtown Eclectic October 24, 2015

1. Gwen Holley 2. Eddie, Kim and Katie Travis 3. Timothy Tucker 4. Beth and Alden Sides 5. Betty Stricker with her mini pony Molly 6. Grayson Gober 7. Courtney and Sadler Sheffield 8. Emily and Jase Moore 9. Summer, Thomas and Melinda Gregory and Kyley Fulmer

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OUT & ABOUT

One Man Volleyball Game Tallasse High School October 31, 2015 1. Jonovan Miller 2. Caleb Flowers 3. Bob Holmes 4. Megan Jones, Victoria Speake, Jeremy Wade Speake, Journey Speake and Abiona Jones 5. Kalvin Levett

6. Mike McGhar 7. Journey Speake and Bethanie Dorley 8. Toni Golden and Regina Redden 9. Madison Grace and Natalie Sullivan

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OUT & ABOUT

Talisi Historical Preservation

Society 20th Anniversary Event, Tallassee October 25, 2015 1. Nadine and Buford Hardy 2. Bill Goss and Alberta Troupe 3. Ann Noble and Sandra Patterson 4. Bobby Payne and Bob Gamble

5. Sylvia Landrum, Bill Anthony, Nicky Walton, Janice Heacock 6. Linda Benson and Fred Randall Hughey

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OUT & ABOUT

October 31, 2015

Coosa River Challenge Wetumpka October 3, 2015

1. Caleb Thornton, Issac Cochran, Jeremiah Cochran, Josh Co-

1. Daniel, Daniela and Trevor

chran and Jaden Cochran

Martian and Matthias Koehler

Tallassee's Monster Mash Dash 5K

2. Barker and Barry Fagan

2. Rebecca Johnston, Cindy Lyle and Tracy Pitts

3. John David Lambert and Brendon Emfinger 4. Riley Swicord, Reid Swicord, Zekiel Nobles and Anzlee Nobles

3. Cole and Jake Blackwell 4. Kevin Rass and Amanda Senn 5. Mark Nichols and Richei

5. Jill Sharp

Fernandez

6. Rob Rygiel

6. John Grayson and Jerel Hunt

7. Nita Kennebrew

7. Danny and Judy Major, Susan

8. Carol Smith, Justin Butler, Pam Chut, Kathy Freeman, Vivian

Taylor and Maria Richardson

Wilson, Marilyn Collins, Brad Mason, Demetrius Washington, Ian Miller, Johnny Ettinger, Kendrick McKienzie, Bob McKranee, Dillon French and Joey Cely

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Business & Service Directory

Call today 334-567-7811.

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

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

Wetumpka

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.............................................................................2 Catherine's Market..................................................................................................................3 1 Collier Ford...................................................................................................................................6 Community Hospital................................................................................................................3 Elmore County Hospital........................................................................................................4 1 First United Methodist Church of Wetumpka.................................................................................. 7 Holley's Home Furnishings..................................................................................................5 6 Jackson Thornton......................................................................................................................2 Karen's Mane Tamers.............................................................................................................5 2 Kowaliga Restaurant..............................................................................................................3 1 Kowaliga Whole Health.........................................................................................................5 2 Lake Martin Hospice...........................................................................................................................2 Mark's Service Center & Body Shop, Inc.......................................................................................... 6 Russell Marine..........................................................................................................................................3 1 SpringHouse.............................................................................................................................................3 1 Tallassee Health & Rehab, LLC...............................................................................................6 The Gab.......................................................................................................................................5 2 The Stables at Russell Crossroads......................................................................................3 1 Wetumpka Health & Rehabilitation LLC............................................................................6

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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 Shannon Elliott or Jayne Carr At 334-567-7811 or stop by our office located at 300 Green Street, Wetumpka AL 36092

The great cranberry sauce debate

M.K. Moore

DOWN HOME 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.

So last year, I let you in our family drama surrounding plain dressing versus “fancy” dressing and how it ends up that everyone gets what they want. This Thanksgiving, I’m carrying on with that theme and talking about the Great Cranberry Sauce debate. Holidays, especially food holidays, reach down through our minds to our stomachs and back up to our hearts to trigger those warm, happy memories. I’m betting that many of you can’t remember every person who has ever attended a certain holiday gathering, but you can remember if a certain dish was missing. And if someone messes up a favorite dish, you have instant recall of the year that Aunt So-and-So burned the marshmallows on the sweet potatoes or Cousin Whosit’s new wife put mushrooms in the green bean casserole. Each of our family’s food traditions are so ingrained that it is weird to go to someone else’s family for a holiday meal. While pretty much everyone has a turkey on Thanksgiving, the sides are always different from what we are used to, causing a little bit of homesickness for Grandmother’s Cheese Grit casserole. Cue the cranberry sauce. I love cranberry sauce. Made with real cranberries. I started small and traditional with just cranberries and sugar, but have since moved on to grand experiments that have evolved into more of a cranberry chutney with all sorts of sweet, savory and spicy flavors. Homemade cranberry sauce, for those of us who eschew mayonnaise, and you know of whom I’m speaking here, is the yummiest condiment to put on a turkey and dressing sandwich. Yes, turkey and dressing sandwiched between more bread. Don’t judge. At the first Thanksgiving with Sweetheart’s family, I was asked to bring the cranberry sauce. As a family newbie, I wasn’t trusted to bring any centerpiece side dishes. Newbies are asked to bring the cranberry sauce and rolls. Or cups and plates. I was cool with that and proceeded to slave over the best cranberry sauce I had ever made. It was sweet, tart and

thick with a few hints of orange and honey. As were getting ready to leave for the family gathering, I headed out the door with my sauce decanted into a pretty jar, decorated with a little rustic string bow. Oh, it was pretty, and I was so proud. Until Sweetheart asked, “Do you have the cranberry sauce?” Why, yes, I do, I answered, presenting the jar. “The real cranberry sauce?” Sweetheart replied. What? Huh? It seemed I was heading for a serious first Thanksgiving faux pas; a stumble from which I might never have recovered; an error that could ruin Thanksgiving. Real cranberry sauce is the jelly stuff. From a can. That’s the stuff that keeps its can marks in the dish even after it is sliced. After few rounds of “You’ve got to be kidding me,” we jumped in the car and made the rounds of grocery stores to find an open one that had canned cranberry sauce still in stock. To this day, we are a two-cranberry sauce family. I make my homemade sauce every year but never neglect to stock up on several cans of the jelly kind. Over the years, I’ve noticed that more and more of my homemade sauce is tried and eaten. I even have a few friends who anxiously await cranberry season and anticipate receiving a gifted jar. So, as we go into the holiday season, I’m reminded, and am reminding you, that compromise, family, and a gentle spirit are just as important as the spread on your table.

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256.234.4141 334.279.3101 ELMORE COUNTY LIVING Alexander City Montgomery