October 2016 Elmore County Living magazine by Tallapoosa Publishers

Hometown Businesses n Eclectic Cotton Festival ACTFest 2016 comes to the Depot

S ' A K P M U WET Y R O T S I H D HAUNTE

Elmore October 2016

County Living

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ATTENTION, LAKE LOVERS:

YOUR APP IS HERE. The Shorelines app will tell you everything you want to know about your favorite Alabama lakes. If you love life on the lake, you’ll love the Alabama Power Shorelines app. It covers all 14 Alabama Power lakes and gives you the power to stay informed and get the most out of your favorite lake. From the hottest fishing spots to lake levels to generator schedules, you’ll be smarter and safer every time you visit. So download the Shorelines app today or visit APCShorelines.com. Then go jump in a lake. JUST SOME OF THE FEATURES: • Current conditions and water levels • Generation schedules • Fishing hotspots and hunting information • Interactive maps • Information about day-use parks and lake access

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Community Hospital 805 Friendship Road Tallassee, AL 36078 (334) 283-6541 www.chal.org

Community Skilled Care and Rehab Community Hospital of Tallassee is now offering a transitional level of care to those patients who need rehabilitative and restorative services on a shortterm basis. Our program is designed to assist patients when acute care hospitalization is not required, but the patient needs further care to reach a level of strength and wellness in order to safely return to their home or residential facility. We have partnered with Crain Rehab to offer the finest in inpatient rehabilitative care. Who Requires Rehabilitative Care?

Why Choose Community Skilled Care and Rehab?

Patient examples include: • Generalized weakness • Rehabilitation following surgery • Recovery following an accident • Rehabilitation after a stroke or heart attack • IV medication therapy • Rehabilitation following an acute care inpatient hospital stay

Our caring and competent team provides personalized treatment, tailored to each patient’s needs. • Nursing care provided by experienced RNs and LPNs • 24-hour physician in-house • Low patient to nurse ratio • Physical, occupational and speech therapy • Respiratory therapy • Dietary and nutritional services • Social services • Coordinated & planned activities program • Team approach to discharge planning Community Skilled Care and Rehab

For more information please call: (334) 283-3857 E-mail: swingbed@chal.org Visit our website at www.chal.org ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

A division of

Community Hospital

From the Managing Editor's Desk Pretty much, I am what you might call a scaredy-cat. Not a fan of scary movies, I have never watched Carrie; never seen an installment of Friday the 13th; and I was well into my 30s before I sat through the flying monkeys scene in Wizard of Oz for the first time. When commercials for horror films come on TV at my house, I hit the mute button and look away. During October, which is Halloween movie-marathon month, I just about don’t watch any TV at all. So when it came time to write the story about Wetumpka’s Haunted History Tours in this issue of Elmore County Living, I passed the assignment off to the newest magazine staff member, Lonna Upton, who came on board last month as the assistant editor of TPI’s magazines. Lonna dug up the stories about boots trumping down the hallway at the Chamber and the scarecrow that moves from window to window on the third floor. Lonna’s eyes grew wide in the retelling of the floating T-shirt story at River Perk, and she gasped when she heard about the bride who fell down the stairs at the old hotel on her wedding day and died. Lonna even went looking for bullet holes in the buildings where the dentist was killed in a shootout. There’s more to know about downtown Wetumpka’s ghostly past, so check out the article and tour times on page 20 and sign up at the Chamber for the inaugural Haunted History Tours. You won’t see me there, but it'll be a ghostly good time. When you’re ready to read something a little tamer, turn to page 12 for this year’s Hometown Businesses section. This year, we introduce you to the owners of three unique retail stores, local residents who saw a need in their communities and developed the business plans to meet them. We hope you find inspiration in their stories. And when you visit them, please let them know you learned about their stores and more in Elmore County Living magazine. Thanks!

STAFF Chairman

Kenneth Boone

kenneth.boone@alexcityoutlook.com

President & Publisher Steve Baker

steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com

Managing Editor Betsy Iler

betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com

Assistant Magazine Editor Lonna Upton

lonna.upton@alexcityoutlook.com

Distribution Manager David Kendrick

david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing Consultant Molly Brethauer

molly.brethauer@thewetumpkaherald.com

Marketing Consultant Stacy Adams

stacy.adams@thewetumpkaherald.com

Creative Services Audra Spears

audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com

Contributors

Suellen Young Jeff Langham Mary K. Moore Carmen Rodgers Jacob Saylor

Corey Arwood William Carroll Kathy Monroe Joe Allen Turner Cory Diaz

Linda Summey

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

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor

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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Alabama Frontier Days

Fort Toulouse Fort Jackson ✦ Saturday, November 5th $8 Adults, $7 Students, Under 6 Free

photo: John Greene

Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park l 2521 West Fort Toulouse Road, Wetumpka For more information, call 334-567-3002

www.fttoulousejackson.org

Hours: 9AM-4PM

An historic property of the Alabama Historical Commission

For Every Stage Of Life NEW LOCATION! Established in 1991, OB-GYN Associates of Montgomery is proud to announce we’re expanding into YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. Located just outside of Elmore Community Hospital, OB-GYN Associates of Montgomery will begin treating patients in WETUMPKA, ALABAMA. Make Your Appointment today!

Gynecology • Obstetrics

Bioidentical Hormone Pellet Therapy Performed by: Paula Sullivan, D.O.

Joseph Desautels, M.D.

525 Ho spital Driv e, Suite B , We tu m p k a , A L 3 6 0 9 2 • 3 3 4 -2 7 9 -9 3 3 3 W W W . O B G Y N M O N T G O M E RY. C O M ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

CONTENTS ON THE COVER The scarecrow on the third floor of the Chamber of Commerce building in Wetumpka appears in different windows arbitrarily. Photo by Suellen Young

46 Columns 28

Community Care

Movie Man

32 33 46

First in the Country

Best You've Never Seen

The Gamer

World of Warcraft: Legion

Back in the Day

Princess or Imposter?

Southern Delights

Ultimate Food Fest Gravy

Features 11 12 16 18 20 26

In Every Issue

County Honors Veterans

Extra! Extra!

Hometown Businesses

Out & About

Annual Tribute

B&B Boutique

Helping Cancer Patients

Rumbling Water

Four Remarkable Artists

Vault Variety

Vintage Halloween Costumes

Haunted Wetumpka

Chamber Will Host Ghostly Tours

Depot Players Host Fest Regional ACTFest

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40 44

News Briefs

In Elmore County

Coming Up

Fun Activities for Everyone

Where to Find Us Distribution List

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Extra! Extra!

Eclectic Warehouse hosts art event for kids Visitors to downtown Eclectic can see a variety of scarecrows. The idea was Anita Holley’s, who said

she saw a similar display on a trip to Alpharetta, Georgia and thought the idea would work well in Eclectic.

News from Elmore County and surrounding areas

Conference Center to begin this year

Rescheduled Bark event still a success Some 500 people turned out on the Sept. 25 rain day for the Annual Bark in the Park event at Fort Toulouse/Fort Jackson after threatening rain cancelled the original date for the event on Sept. 18. According to HSEC Executive Director Rea Cord, the event had a good turnout even though temperatures reached into the upper 90s on Saturday. “It was really hot this year, like last year,” she said. “But all in all we had a good turnout and it was a fun event.” According to Cord, 23 vendors participated in the event, offering a host of items, from dog toys, to food items, to other pet supplies. There were also vendors for the human participants as well, including drinks, food and the very popular ice cream and gelato stands.

Construction will begin on a new conference center in Millbrook later this year, Mayor Al Kelley announced earlier this month. The new facility will replace the current mobile home office building that is now being used for public meetings and other gatherings. The multi-purpose facility will include a lobby, kitchen, story and assembly area and will accommodate about 120 people, Kelley said. DLM Architects designed the building, and Danny Webb of Webb Builders in Millbrook will lead the construction. The project is expected to cost about $300,000.

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DAC artist Moon featured in Romania Dixie Art Colony (DAC) painter Carlos Alpha “Shiney” Moon will be featured in an Art in Embassies (AIE) Program exhibit in Bucharest, Romania, DAC Foundation Director Mark Harris announced last month. Moon was an avid participant in DAC functions that took place in Elmore County during the last 1930 and early 1940s and sparked a spin-off art colony on the gulf coast. The selected work for the exhibit was painted at the spin-off colony. Learn more about this exhibit at dixieartcolony. org.

Character in Action awards presented

Titus Bluegrass Festival The annual Bluegrass Festival in Titus offered music, food and vendors for bluegrass fans and others who enjoyed the event. In the shade on the lawn of the Titus Community Center, fans sat on blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the music. Three bands were slated for the day-long line-up with the headliners, Shannon Slaughter and Heather Slaughter and County Clare. The four man and one woman outfit traveled from St. Clair County to play the day's summy and warm festival. The band played a mix of originals and covers, giving them their own melodic bluegrass style, from Johnny Cash hits to Bill Monroe standards. Pictured above are band members Heather Slaughter and Shannon Slaughter.

Judge Patrick Pinkston, Elmore County Juvenile Judge, presented Character in Action awards to students from several local schools. The students were the first to receive the awards based on "exemplary character."

Breast Cancer Awareness month activities in Wetumpka included the annual Pink Ribbon Walk at Gold Star Park where survivors and supporters released pink balloons and heard the testimony of cancer survivor Rebecca Buckalew.

Coosa River Challenge Swayback Trail was the starting point for the 14th annual challenge. Participants ran, biked, paddled and rappelled their way through the event which ended in Wetumpka's Gold Star Park.

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County honors veterans Annual tribute includes musical entertainment and Gallery of Honor exhibit

Story by Linda Summey

rrive early to get a seat. Unlike many events across the country where a mere few turn out to honor the nation’s veterans, it’s a packed house at Elmore County’s Musical Tribute to Veterans and the annual Gallery of Honor exhibit, hosted by Trinity Episcopal Church at 5375 U.S. Highway 231 (Veterans Highway) in Wetumpka. The eighth annual concert to honor veterans will begin at 6:30 p.m., and if this year’s event is anything like the previous seven years, the hall will be filled to capacity well before the first notes of the national anthem ring out. This year, the Madrigal Voices of Montgomery and American Idol’s Jess Meuse will sing praise for the brave men and women who have worn the military uniform and fought for freedom. In past years, chorus groups from Auburn University and Huntingdon College have performed. The success of the event, which began in 2010 as a one-time program, continues to fill the church nave and draw professional performers, year after year, said the Rev. Bob Henderson, priest-in-charge at Trinity. “Trinity is proud to continue to host this moving tribute to our veterans,” he said. “We hope to continue this celebration for years to come and pray that the veterans who attend are as honored by what we do, as we are by what they have done.”

In addition to the concert, the church exhibits a Gallery of Honor, a display of service pictures, awards and military memorabilia. “Anyone can bring an item to exhibit,” said Gary Wright, veteran and director of the gallery. “The exhibit has continued to grow over the years and is now open from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Veterans gathered on the day of for last year's event the concert.” In addition, a reception after the concert offers members of the community a chance to mingle with the veterans and to browse the exhibits. Each concert has been dedicated to the memory of a veteran who served not only the country but also the local community. The first concert was dedicated to a former rector of Trinity Church, the Rev. Edwin R. Carter, who served as chaplain (Col.) to the U.S. Army at Normandy during the invasion of France in WW II under the command of Gen. George Patton. Carter served Trinity Church from 1972-1976. He donated the service case he carried in the field to Trinity Church. The chalice is still in use today, and the case will be on exhibit in the Gallery of Honor. This year’s Tribute will be dedicated to the memory of Capt. Conrad Ward (ret.). Ward was a Navy aviator and lived in the City of Titus. For information about this year’s Musical Tribute and Gallery of Honor, go to the Elmore County Commissioners or the Trinity Episcopal Church websites.

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Hometown Business

B & B Boutique New shoppe for breast cancer patients to open in downtown Wetumpka Story by Betsy Iler Photos by Suellen Young

atacha Graham is in the business of women, and that business will open its doors at B&B Boutique this month on Court Street in downtown Wetumpka. There will be food and giveaways Oct. 22 at the posh shop with its ultra-feminine pink toile fitting room curtains and tulle canopies. Hot pink walls will complement the vintage exposed brick and the wood floors in a room that displays swimwear, nightgowns and lacy undergarments, but don’t confuse the décor with frivolity. Breast & Body Boutique is a serious endeavor that will cater to breast cancer patients with a focus on restoring privacy and self-confidence to women in the difficult processes of fitting prostheses, choosing wigs and dealing with the after-effects of surgery and chemotherapy. “We want to help women feel

like women, not incomplete women,” explained the 41-year-old Graham. “We want to make women feel special. “That doesn’t happen when they go to a prosthetics store that fits a range of limbs – arms and legs, as well as breasts. There are men there, and it’s embarrassing and humiliating for women. And it doesn’t happen when women have to purchase their prosthetics online, either. How can they possibly get a properly fitted prosthetic online? It doesn’t happen. “What does happen in those situations is that a woman who has just been through this terrible disease and is depressed and feels ugly and less than a real woman is made to feel even

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Natacha Graham worse. We’re going to change that.” Inspired by her mother, a four-time cancer survivor, Graham will offer free fittings and scans by certified attendants in the Parisian-styled fitting room where an unhurried, intimate atmosphere prevails. “We are certified to customize,” she said. “We’ll have items that are for women who have not had breast cancer, too. We can custom fit all women, and

Graham's inventory includes stylish bathing suits with comfortable prostheses pockets

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women need that because let’s face it, very few of us fit the Victoria’s Secret profile, but we all need lingerie that fits comfortably and makes us feel good about ourselves.” Her inventory will include bralets, camis and supportive sports bras, as well as pajamas that are comfortable and attractive, with discreet prosthetic pockets and trendy designs. She will stock swimsuits that will make surviving women feel like they can walk on a public beach again. She’ll offer stylish alternatives to wigs and scarves and will help women to look and feel their best, despite the changes brought on by cancer and its treatments. Graham grew up in West Virginia and joined the military after school. She moved to Wetumpka in 2006 because this is where her husband’s family lives. Married 20 years, Natacha and Vershone Graham have two children. “My family is very supportive of this boutique. There is cancer in my husband’s family, too, and we know this really is needed in this community,” Graham said. For most of her working life, Graham has been associated with medical fields. She was an EMT for 10 years before shifting into the business side of medicine. Until recently, she worked for a national medical association in reimbursement and regulatory affairs in the field of urology. She left that job, which she loved, to follow a heartfelt calling to open B&B Boutique. “I see what Medicare pays for men and what it does not pay for women,” Graham explained. “And I want to work for women, to change that. I want to work to get better funding for women’s health.” B&B will accept all insurances

Privacy is a priority at the B&B Boutique that cover prosthetics for women, and if insurance doesn’t cover the costs and a patient cannot afford the purchase, Graham said, a nonprofit organization has been established to pay the balance. “No woman has to go without what she needs because she can’t afford it,” Graham said. “My mom started all this because of what she had to go through. She had a

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mastectomy and was very uncomfortable in the prosthetic fitting. It was a place where they did everything – arms, legs – and there were men there. It was awful. She said she didn’t want anyone else to go through what she had to go through.” Graham’s mother, Bonnie Bell, opened the first B&B Boutique in West Virginia several years ago,

and her daughter saw the need for a similar boutique in Elmore County. “There is a huge need here. There is nothing like this offered anywhere near us,” Graham said. The inventory at B&B will be reasonably priced, Graham said, and she will offer a loyalties program and sale-priced items on a regular basis. In addition, one wall in the 800-square-foot store will be painted with a Tree of Life to which customers can attach ribbons in honor of cancer survivors or in memory of loved ones lost to cancer. “The Tree of Life will be for all cancers, not just breast cancer,” said Graham. “We’ll have different colored ribbons for each kind of cancer.” Graham also hopes to educate younger women about breast cancer. She has ordered teaching tools that simulate the presence of various kinds of breast cancers, and she will encourage young women to learn the indications of the disease. “My mother was first diagnosed with cancer at 30 years old,” Graham said. “We all know we should be doing self-examinations, but do we know what we’re looking for? Do we know what breast cancer feels like?” Bell, who battled breast cancer twice, as well as other cancers, will be on hand at the store’s grand opening this month to champion her daughter’s new business venture and encourage women affected by breast cancer. For more information about B&B Boutique, contact Graham at 334-478-5090.

Healthy Hearts Make More Memories More moments mean more memories. More time with grandkids and family. More days on the lake. More sunsets. Kevin Sublett, MD, and the staff at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic of Central Alabama are committed to keeping your heart healthy, so you can keep on making memories. The clinic is backed by the world-class expertise you expect from UAB Medicine, offering: • The full spectrum of cardiovascular care • Care from a physician board-certified in interventional cardiology • The latest in cardiac and vascular ultrasound technology, as well as nuclear medicine imaging in accredited laboratories • Diagnosis and treatment of cardiac rhythm disorders • Convenient location within Russell Medical Center Call us today to schedule an appointment!

3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 234-2644 uabmedicine.org/heartcentralAL

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n a downtown corner near the Coosa River, Rumbling Water Studio and Gallery occupies the oldest building in Wetumpka. That old, history-filled Creek Indian trading post, built in 1818, is home to talented local artists Carole Jean Boyd, Allan Carmichael, Mary Beck and Christine Drost. Founder of the studio and gallery, Boyd displays and sells her exquisite woodcarvings in the gallery. A fourth generation resident of Wetumpka, Boyd took on a labor of love in 2011 when the City offered her space in the building at 295 Wharf St. The offer came with building materials in exchange for renovation of the condemned building. Boyd worked with 25 volunteers to rebuild the dilapidated structure from the ground to the roof. The project took more than a year to complete. When it was finished, she invited painter Mary Beck, spinner and weaver Drost and fellow woodcarver Carmichael to join the Rumbling Water Gallery, which has been open for three years now. Carmichael and Boyd met 25 years ago when he mowed her grass in exchange for a cowboy she had carved. He fell in love with her carvings, took lessons with her and attended workshops around the South. Carmichaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s works focus on horses, animals and whimsical houses. He also carves bone and antlers, which he designs as exquisitely detailed pendants for necklaces. Beck has been painting for 25 years. She taught painting classes at Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Hobby Lobby for years, and in addition to offering lessons at Rumbling Water, she works with acrylics, ink and dyes she makes herself. Her paintings range

from local sites, such as the Wetumpka ducks, to paintings of photographs taken by her grandchildren. She offers two to three painting workshops a week for children and adults. Drost cards, spins and weaves natural wool and other materials. She began her Wooly Booger business 15 years ago when she visited Fort Toulouse with her children and saw a reenactment of spinning. Spinning, she said, is the most relaxing craft she has ever done. She buys her wool from farmers who raise sheep specifically for spinners. She also spins silk and flax, and she makes her own dyes from flowers and food. She is an avid crocheter, as well. Thirty years a woodcarver, Boyd previously retouched photographs as an occupation, before Photoshop was little more than a dream. She enjoyed a career that included combining and retouching several photographs to create a life-sized portrait of Lurleen Wallace that still hangs in the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse. Her experience with photographed faces continues to lend itself to her woodcarving, as she has naturally gravitated toward carving likenesses of people. She concentrates on depicting realistic expressions. She displays carvings of Native Americans, Father Christmas and other figures in the gallery and teaches workshops to all levels of carvers, from the novices who begin by carving eggs to experienced carvers who are ready to attempt faces. All four artists at Rumbling Water may be commissioned to create a work of art to specifications. The gallery and studio are open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information about workshops, visit the Facebook page or call the studio at 334-868-9999.

Artists Allan Carmichael, Christine Drost, Carole Jean Boyd and Mary Beck work out of the historic Indian trading post on the river's edge

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Hometown Business

Rumbling Water Story by Lonna Upton Photos by Suellen Young

Faces and Christmas themes are among Boyd's most popular carvings

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Hometown Business

Vault Variety An old bank safe could hold the perfect costume Story by Betsy Iler & Photos by Suellen Young

Vintage costumes at Vault Variety include lacy Victorian gowns, flapper dresses and a wide selection of Halloween outfits

haron Brooks scours thrift stores, yard sales and estate sales to find the vintage costumes that line the rooms of her shop in the old bank building on Company Street. With the hats, gowns, shoes, capes, suits, vests, bejeweled chains and purses she gleans from her forays, she helps her customers put together the quintessential Halloween attire for any occasion. From Victorian debutante to the Mad Hatter and every costume in between, she is a fervent collector and an intense fashionista. “This is my passion,” Brooks said. Brooks moved to Wetumpka when she was 9 years old. She started her store with consignment clothing in 2009 and found a niche in formal gowns for proms and weddings. As her inventory grew, she collected the costume items, which she rents and sells all year long for themed birthday parties, theatrical productions and costumed events. Three years ago, Brooks added a boutique with new clothing lines, high fashion items for high school and college football games and choice accessories that make the outfit for any occasion. And now, her store also includes gift items, works by local artists and custom embroidery, active wear and casual all-day clothing. “In the future, I want to expand into the lake area with boat toys and swim lines,” she said. Her husband, Lanny, helps Brooks with the frequent build-out changes she implements to keep the store displays fresh. Twin sister Karen Franks helps Brooks find many of the gems in her costume rooms, such as the props that include feathered fans for the flapper costumes; teacups to go with the Victorian lace dresses and gloves; and scepters for the Halloween royalty. Along with the vintage costumes, Brooks has an extensive inventory of classic Halloween costumes. “These are the real deal Halloween, not department store variety,” she explained. And she will even help customers complete the look with glitter makeup, fussy hair and authentic-looking props without emptying her customers’ wallets.

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Sharon Brooks “I try to keep prices low,” she explained, “to keep them around what the average working person could afford.” She now offers custom embroidery on clothing and soft gift items, and her boutique includes a plus-size section. She also has a one-chair salon in which she can provide hair, nail and waxing services for her customers. Brooks has carried the vintage vibe throughout the store with display furnishings, as well as merchandise. Her fitting rooms are made from old doors, and she keeps the vintage wedding gowns in the old bank vault. “We can special order gowns if we have measurements to size. It usually takes about three weeks for them to come in,” she said. Her unique inventory attracts a wide customer base, and Brooks has repeat customers from as far away as Selma and Greenville. But starting Nov. 1, her customers will find The Vault Variety Shop in a new location. Brooks is moving to 117 E. Bridge St. next month. “There is a beautiful hidden courtyard at the new location, and I will be able to offer my customers an event venue,” she said. The new store won’t need a new name, she said, because inside the building, there is an old safe, which she plans to style into her growing hometown business.

The Mad Hattress is a favorite among Brooks' Halloween costumes

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Haunted Wetumpka

Chamber of Commerce will host tours of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most haunted buildings Renters at the Big Fish house have reported strange sights and sounds

Story by Lonna Upton Photos by Suellen Young

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pparitions and their activities explained. may startle and astound brave Young also said that a Halloween scarecrow ghost hunters during the first ever decoration has moved, without explanation, from Wetumpka Haunted History Tours window to window on the third floor of the buildOct. 26 through Oct. 29 from 7 ing. Construction crews working on the recent p.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Werenovation of the offices expressed frustration tumpka. Hosted by the Wetumpka Area Chamber that the scarecrow and a large table on the same of Commerce and Central Alabama Paranormal floor had been moved to different places in the Investigations (CAPI), room. She said those the walking tours men were definitely will provide inside spooked. information gleaned Some of the occurfrom tour guides rences began after the and building ownmortuary, which had ers about suspected once been next door to ghostly activities and the chamber, was torn the histories and mysdown, Young said. teries surrounding The old Lancaster the architecture of the Hotel also is on the city’s downtown area. tour, Young said. AcFor the truly couracording to legend, the geous, an extended Lancaster Hotel, which tour package will inwas built in the early clude an actual inves1900s, also served as tigation with CAPI, a a brothel and was the Christian non-profit setting for two deaths, organization. CAPI which some folks representatives will believe might explain use hand-held moniparanormal activity toring equipment, an there. electro-magnetic field In its heyday, the meter and electronic Lancaster Hotel hosted voice monitoring to weddings. Legend has detect paranormal it that a bride tripped activity. on her veil as she came Chamber Associate down the staircase for The scarecrow moves from Director Jamie Young, the nuptials, breaking window to window on the who has worked in her neck in the fall and Street side of the building the chamber headdying at the bottom of quarters for four the stairs. Paranormal years, said the building is considered one of the believers say the bride is still present in the hotel most active in Wetumpka for paranormal incisince her life was cut short on such an important dences. Several strange occurrences have been reday. ported at the chamber building, which originally In another story, the second cousin of a dentist was the Bank of Wetumpka. in town was interested in the dentist’s wife. The “I have heard footsteps on the stairs, sometimes love triangle and subsequent feud led to a shootheavy, like boots, and sometimes light footsteps. out on the street between the chamber building I don’t stay in the building after dark by myself and the hotel, leaving bullet holes in both buildbecause there is always shuffling in the hallway, ings. Because the two men were from a prominent and no one else is in the building except me,” she family, no one bore witness to the fact that the

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The Lancaster Hotel was a brothel where clients climbed onto an ornate veranda to access the rooms; Inset: it is this staircase from which a bride is said to have tripped and fallen to her death in the old hotel

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Paranormal activity is suspected at the old post office that now houses the county museum

cousin killed the dentist. Stories passed down through the years suggest the killer threw the gun in the river and got away with the murder. Believers say the dentist cannot rest since no one was held responsible for his death. The Lancaster tales were not written into the books chronicling city history; however, at least one Wetumpka resident claims to have been a child witness to the shootout, Young said. Investigation through the years cannot prove either story, but the questions encourage speculation of paranormal activity. After investigating the chamber building in August, CAPI founder Johnny Rushing, who has been testing for paranormal activity for 32 years, said the chamber building is the first building he has ever ruled as haunted, a designation he considers extremely rare. An investigator on his team there saw the shadow of a man in a top hat and tails at the top of a staircase in the recently renovated section of the building. The same shadow in top hat and tails also had been seen by a previous chamber director years before the section was renovated, Young said.

At one time, there was a tunnel between the First National Bank and the Bank of Wetumpka, which is the Chamber of Commerce building today

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CAPI will investigate further the first bank built in Wetumpka in 1905, which now houses River Perk and Vault Variety. River Perk partners Larry Oates and Savannah Dart have no doubt that spirits inhabit the building. Dart said she watched as Oates climbed to only the second rung of a ladder that was firmly on the floor and had no wobbling at all. “All of a sudden, the ladder fell backwards. There was no reason for it to do that,” she said. Oates was under the ladder and a picture frame had been knocked onto the floor, which they returned to its shelf. The next morning, after the building had been locked up tight for the night, that picture frame was on the floor, along with several other knick-knacks, but none of the items were broken. They have other stories of items having been moved to different locations or actually moving in front of them. “I wasn’t ever big into ghosts, but now I have a little more respect for people who are. Everybody has things that happen that they can’t explain,” Oates said. He thinks paranormal activities could be the explanation to the strange occurrences. River Perk will be included on the walking tour, along with the Elmore County Museum, Scent Wizards, Austin Flowers, the big white house that was used in the Big Fish movie and others. Hotspots for the extended tour include the second and third floors, plus the basement, of the Chamber of Commerce building, where noises and shadows have been part of the environment for years. The tours are open only to guests over the age of 12 years, due to the three-hour length and the subject matter. Parental guidance is strongly advised. Guests are encouraged to bring cameras, digital voice recorders and hand-held investigation equipment; however, no videos may be taken inside the buildings, and no videos of the tour guides may be made during the tours. For those who want to know more about paranormal investigations, CAPI offers a class for adults and junior investigators aged 13-18 years. For more information, visit the haunted tours page on the Wetumpka Chamber website at www. wetumpkachamber.com/haunted-history-toursof-wetumpka.

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Depot Players host theatre ACTFest Wetumpka Depot Theatre will play host Oct. 28 through 30 when six community theatre companies from across East Central Alabama bring excerpts from their productions to the Alabama Conference of Theatre’s ACTFest. Tickets for the event are available through the wetumpkadepot. com website at $10 for the individual presentations or $40 for an eventlong pass. ACTFest is an annual opportunity for community theatre organizations to showcase their talent and quality and to hear applicable criticism from adjudicators who will offer feedback at the end of each presentation. “Audiences enjoy hearing the adjudicator’s responses and comparing them to their own, while the companies benefit from the constructive criticism offered,” said this year’s festival chair Sue Ellen Gerrells. During the event, each theatre company will have 10 minutes to assemble the set and prepare to present a one-hour cutting to the audience. “It’s really great for community theatres,” explained Wetumpka’s Depot Players director Kristy Meanor. “We get professional development; we can learn and grow our skills. It’s great for directors, actors, set designers, lighting – just a great experience. And it’s great to network with other community theatre companies and build relationships.” Millbrook Community Players will present scenes from The Dixie Swim Club; Prattville Way Off Broadway has chosen a cutting from The Curious Savage. South City Theatre of Pelham will perform an excerpt from Steel Magnolias, and Leeds Theatre and Arts Center will bring to the stage scenes from Rabbit Hole. Pell City Players will present an original production entitled Hiram: Becoming Hank. Auburn Area Community Theatre will stage a cutting from War Time, and Wetumpka Depot Players will perform part of The Glass Menagerie. The adjudicators could select up to two productions from the showings that would then advance to the 10-state Southeastern Theatre Conference to be held in March 2017. Winners at that event will compete at the national level. Meanor said school audiences also could be arranged during the event. Call Meanor at 334-868-1440 or email Gerrells at sueellengerrells@gmail. com for information. Wetumpka Depot Theatre is located at 300 S. Main St. in historic downtown Wetumpka.

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Pell City Players will perform an original piece, called Hiram: Becoming Hank, at this year's ACTFest in Wetumpka; Inset: South City Theatre will stage scenes from Steel Magnolias

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Community Hospital first in country to install new scanning system

Kathy Monroe

COMMUNITY CARE Kathy Monroe is the Assistant to the

Administrator and the CFO at Community Hospital.

Community Hospital in Tallassee is the first facility in the nation to install the new Toshiba Aquilion LightningTM CT system. This advanced imaging system combines cutting edge radiation dose reduction technology with exceptional image quality to help healthcare providers deliver quality patient care. Computerized tomography (CT) scanning is a diagnostic procedure that combines a series of images taken from different angles to create crosssectional images, often referred to as slices, of the bones, blood vessels and soft issues in the human body. “The new CT system is the latest addition to the Community Hospital Radiology Department which is staffed by specialists in CT, MRI, ultrasound, mammography and diagnostic radiology,” said Jennie Rhinehart, Administrator/CEO of Community Hospital. “The decision to acquire this new CT scanner was an easy one. By utilizing this advanced technology, we are able to reduce radiation, improve imaging quality and operate more efficiently. This is consistent with our goal to improve safety for our community and our patients. Our department offers a variety of services to assist clinicians in making prompt and accurate diagnoses on more than 3,600 patients annually.” CT scan images provide much more detailed information than routine X-rays do, which means

doctors have accurate and precise diagnostic information. CT scanning is fast, non-invasive, painless and extremely accurate. In cases of emergency, CT scan images can quickly reveal internal injuries and bleeding, blockages or other problems that could require immediate care. And the images can be viewed in real time, which makes this technology a good tool for guiding minimally invasive procedures. It also could eliminate the need for exploratory surgery. The crosssectional images generated during a CT scan Certified technologist are stored Neacola May and R.T. as electronic Sherri Kirkley prep a data files patient for a scan that can be reviewed on a computer screen. A radiologist interprets the images and sends a report to the doctor. These images also can be transferred to a CD. CT scans provide detailed information to diagnose, plan treatment for and evaluate many conditions. The new Toshiba CT System at Community Hospital offers patients fast, safe and comfortable exams with exceptional image quality. That’s important when the goal is to make patients feel comfortable and at ease while acquiring images rapidly and accurately to provide clinicians with the best diagnostic images possible. For information about the new technology, call the radiology staff at Community Hospital in Tallassee at 334-283-3772.

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The Best Movies You've Probably Never Seen: Part III It’s that time again – time for my annual recommendations of movies that you’ve probably never seen. The following list is completely unscientific. It is composed of movies that I have seen and enjoyed, and I do not claim that every movie on this list has artistic merit – only that you will probably enjoy these films if you give them a chance. Here, in no particular order, are a few suggestions for the next time you are surfing, streaming or purchasing movie treats. The Shop Around the Corner (1940) – This is the perfect movie to represent the spirit of small businesses, as featured in this month’s issue of Elmore County Living. Beloved screen legend James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan shine in this romantic comedy film that served as the inspiration for the blockbuster Tom Hanks/Meg Ryan pairing – You’ve Got Mail. As evidence of its enduring popularity, The Shop Around the Corner is listed in Time Magazine’s list of the “All-Time 100 Movies to See.” Edge of Tomorrow (2014) – Even though this action-packed science fictioner featured box office draws Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt, coupled with director Doug Liman (the Jason Bourne series), it proved a disappointment at the box office. Fortunately, this mesmerizing story that is centered around a futuristic battle with space aliens has gained quite a following on home video. Far from the Madding Crowd (2015) – As a fan of the 1967 Julie Christie version of this classic Thomas Hardy story, I was skeptical going into this remake.

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This time around, the talented Carey Mulligan embodies the feisty heroine Bathsheba Everdene and ignites passionate fireworks with Matthias Schoenaerts as the sturdy Gabriel Oak. This is a must see – beautiful in every way! Begin Again (2013) – Writer/director John Carney, the man responsible for the charming film Once, has assembled a winning cast in Keira Knightley, Mark Ruffalo, James Corden, Adam Levine and CeeLo Green for this musical comedy-drama. Great cast, great music, great fun! About Time (2013) – Just when you think you can’t tolerate another time travel movie, here comes a delightful spin on the topic about a young man gifted with time travel who tries to change his past to impact this future. The film was written and directed by Richard Curtis (Love Actually, Notting Hill, Four Weddings and a Funeral) and stars Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams and Bill Nighy. Brooklyn (2015) – Nominated for multiple Academy Awards, this captivating film is based on Colm Tóibín’s novel of the same name. Set in the early 1950s, the film tells the story of a young Irish woman’s immigration to Brooklyn, where she finds romance and heartbreak when she must choose between her love for her homeland and the promise of new life in America. This radiant film stars Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson, Jim Broadbent and Julie Walters. Postcards from the Edge (1990) – Carrie Fisher’s scalding semi-autobiographical novel is the inspiration for this juicy Hollywood tale directed by the iconic Mike Nichols. The film stars Meryl Streep (whose performance garnered her yet another Oscar nomination), Shirley MacLaine and Dennis Quaid, along with cameo appearances by screen veterans Gene Hackman and Richard Dreyfuss. To Gillian on Her 37th Birthday (1996) – This moving comedy/drama stars Peter Gallagher and Claire Danes as a father and daughter struggling to come to terms with the tragic death of wife and mother Gillian (Michelle Pfeiffer). Popular scribe David E. Kelley (creator of countless popular televi-

sion series) wrote the screenplay, and the late James Horner provided the film with its lush musical score. Time After Time (1979) – Malcolm McDowell, David Warner and Mary Steenburgen headline this wildly imaginative film that places British author H. G. Wells in a time machine in pursuit of Jack the Ripper in modern day San Francisco. The film’s enduring popularity is demonstrated by the announcement that Time After Time is slated to become a television series for the 2016-2017 season. Kevin Williamson of the Scream film series will serve as executive producer and chief writer of the project. Sounds like fun! In Country (1989) – Legendary director Norman Jewison is at the helm of the emotionally powerful drama of the shattering aftermath of the Vietnam War on one blue-collar family. Bruce Willis gives one of his best performances (one that should have gained more recognition on the awards circuit). A climatic visit to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., featuring James Horner’s soaring musical score provides a pulverizing and cathartic emotional experience for all viewers of this unforgettable film. Country Strong (2010) – Undoubtedly, this little-seen film served as an influence for ABC-TV’s drama Nashville. Gwyneth Paltrow, Tim McGraw, Garrett Hedlund and Leighton Meester headline this story about an emotionally unstable country music star who attempts to resurrect her career. Great music plus great cast plus overdramatic tale still equals a recommendation for you to see this movie. Nothing in Common (1986) – It’s hard to imagine that this early Tom Hanks dramedy (and one of my favorites among his works) is 30 years old. Directed by Garry Marshall, it stars Tom Hanks and Jackie Gleason (in his last film role) as son and father who have become estranged and their journey to rebuild their relationship. Eva Marie Saint and Alabama native Sela Ward round out the fine cast. So once again go forth! Surf the channels, stream the flicks or walk the home video aisles to track down these movie treats!

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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.

World of Warcraft: Legion 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.

A massively multiplayer online roleplaying game (MMO), World of Warcraft has presided like a titan over the video game realm. Now more than 12 years old, the game has seen numerous expansions and content additions. World of Warcraft: Legion came out on Aug. 30 this year to eager fans. Game critics have, over the past few weeks, been finishing their “reviews in progress.” What they’re discovering is that this is an experience the likes of which gamers haven’t seen in quite some time; however, things haven’t been all sunshine and rainbows for the game. While World of Warcraft’s record has proven one of the highest earners in video games, it’s ridden a bumpy road. The three editions before Legion – Warlords of Draenor, Mists of Pandaria and Cataclysm – spelled dire straits for the MMO. While player activity spiked following these release expansions, players moved away from the title once they finished exploring the new content. Legion has bucked that trend. While World of Warcraft developer Blizzard Entertainment hasn’t divulged the specific player activity numbers and statistics, one employee at PAX West – a major video games conference – shared that the number of people online at any given time was higher in September than it has been the past few years. The past three expansions lacked some very important aspects significant to the Warcraft brand; among these were a connection to the ‘big bads’ of the universe’s expansive lore. Cataclysm had a massive dragon named “Deathwing” and Warlords of Draenor tried desperately to connect World of Warcraft to its roots once again, but Mists of Pandaria didn’t even have a main antagonist. In Blizzard’s attempt to show us their more obscure characters, they shot themselves in the foot. In addition to a lackluster stable of characters, two of the three expansions utilized environments from previous

games. Cataclysm even went to the effort of reshaping the original game world – a choice that didn’t sit well with many Warcraft veterans. Many of these areas saw almost no foot traffic and probably used more than their fair share of server space, but they were home to geeks and gamers alike. On the rare occasion we set foot in these places, nostalgia came rushing through the breach of imagination. I was certainly a Warcraft stoic, too. There were some who called my enchantment with the game an “addiction.” My account was hacked, and that’s been a highly effective deterrent in keeping me away from the game. The dastardly hacker destroyed my “friend list” and did away with some of my character’s valuable skills. Losing my connections to friends around the globe was one of the preeminent factors in my disenfranchisement with the game. All of this said, Legion is still forcing me to reconsider my respite from the World of Warcraft. The new expansion promises player interactions with some of the most deadly enemies in Warcraft history. In addition, gamers have an entirely new continent to explore, and adventuring is perhaps the most engaging part of World of Warcraft; the fantastical environments are second to none. There’s a feeling in the gaming community that Legion was a project of passion. While the expansions leading up to this latest entry have been far from stupendous, Blizzard still holds World of Warcraft as its lynchpin title. World of Warcraft holds the small, tight and fibrous network of Blizzard-developed games together. So, what does the future hold for this beloved game? Eventually – like all things – this beautiful and sprawling game world will crumble against the progression of time, and the law of diminishing returns will have its way; however, Legion has saved the title from doomsayers that claimed the game would die sooner rather than later. This new expansion has proven that the World of Warcraft will be around as long as there’s passion and will to develop it at Blizzard Entertainment. If Legion is good enough that I’m considering a return to the title, then there’s no height that the World of Warcraft is incapable of achieving.

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Princess or Impostor? Russian-born royalty at Fort Toulouse There was a shortage of women in Mobile had been staring at the woman. Suddenly, he in 1704. The French sent several shiploads of stepped forward. ‘I’ll vouch for her identity,’ marriageable young women to its colony. In he declared. ‘As you know, I was once at St. addition to the French women, there was a Petersburg and while there I was received shipload of German women who came over in the court. During that reception I met the around 1721. One of these women was said beautiful princess. Besides, who else but the to have been a Russian-born princess. princess would dare leave Russia with so Joe Allen Turner The following story by Ernest Shubird many of the royal jewels?’ BACK IN appeared in the Birmingham News Magazine, The young Chevalier had eyes for the THE DAY Oct. 10, 1969. ‘princess’ (and for the jewels, some said). So “Princess or Impostor? She came to Joe Allen turn- after a short courtship, he married her and Alabama about 1721. When a shipload of began a marriage that lasted more than 40 er was born in German immigrants docked at Mobile, a years. And never once during those years wetumpka in sad-faced, royally-dressed woman stepped did he doubt that his wife was the Russian 1931 and has ashore and introduced herself as the daughprincess. been interested ter of Wolfenbuttel, Duke of Brunswick. Although seemingly used to the highest in the city's But she had not come as a royal visitor; she luxuries of Europe, the ‘princess’ adapted history since he explained, she had come as a refugee, for she was a child. without complaint to the crude life of the was also the disowned wife of Czarowitz French colonists and devoted all her time Alexis Petrowitz, a Russian prince, and she (and jewels) to making a good life for the had come to the New World to escape his persecution. Chevalier. Unafraid of the untamed New World, she Having already heard of how the dissolute playboy often accompanied him on inspection tours of the outprince had married and then soon disowned an unforposts in the far wilderness. tunate European woman, the French officials did not After he had been sent to faraway Fort Toulouse, find it too difficult to understand her flight to America. she made the long trip up the rivers to join him. There, But they questioned her story, for according to intershe lived in a comfortable little cabin built especially national rumors, the unfortunate woman had died. for her visit. For many years, the Indians talked of the How was it then that this woman could claim to be the kind white woman who lived near the fort and played princess? Had she returned from the grave? games with their children. ‘Not really from the grave,’ she replied, ‘but from the Eventually the Chevalier was returned to France. coffin.’ When he died in 1765 she moved to Paris to live with According to her explanation, when the cruel prince a daughter, their only child. As the remainder of her made her life intolerable, she faked symptoms of acute royal fortune dwindled, her station in life diminished illness for several weeks. When at the opportune time until she was reduced to poverty. She died in 1771.” she feigned death, a few of her loyal servants prepared True story? Who knows? There has never been her for burial with much pretended mourning and an agreement among historians as to who she was, lamentation. Then while the court made ready for the whether she was an imposter or a real princess. Her funeral, those same servants helped her to escape from story adds a sense of mystery and intrigue to the the coffin and the palace. Slowly she made her way everyday life at a French outpost, Fort Toulouse, on the across Europe and obtained a passage on the first ship Coosa River in the New World in the 18th century. for the New World. Written and submitted by Joe Allen Turner. Source of ‘C’est formidable,’ muttered the French officials. information: “Alabama. A Documentary History to 1900” ‘How do we know you are telling use the truth?’ by Lucille Griffith. Birmingham News Magazine, Oct. 10, A young French officer, the Chevalier D’Aubant, 1969. “Princess or Impostor?” by Ernest Shubird.

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OUT & ABOUT

Red Hill Community Yard Sale,

Old Red Hill School October 1, 2016 1. Mark and Melinda Emfinger 2. Jimmy and Merle Pitts 3. Gloria Graham and Linda White 4. Steven and Stephanie Brown and Cindy Hudson 5. Gary McCain, Sandra Roberson and Myrtle Miller 6. Wanda Nolen and Verdis Parker 7. Carol and John Lanier 8. Ms. Betty Stricker 9. Mickey and Linda Shaw and Cooper and Hunter McLeod

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OUT & ABOUT

Tallassee Homecoming Parade,

Downtown Tallassee September 23, 2016 1. Anna and Kylie Mann 2. Keajah and Lokeisha Turner 3. Jessie and Marley Travis

4. Kim Reese, Landon Griffith, Dalton Griffith, Kendall Coltraine and Carson Carswell 5. Linda Shelton, Carolyn King, Jane Justiss, Becky Gresham and Jill Harris 6. Joann Birmingham and Vera Holloway 7. Mrs. Winchester, Mrs. Fink, Mrs. Watson and Elijah Watson

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OUT & ABOUT

Taste of Eclectic

September 19, 2016 Elmore County High School 1. Iris Dorris and Simon Donath 2. Judy Scott and Martina Scott and Jackie Earnest 3. Kim and Terry Sanders

4. Mickey, Lindsey, Luke and Remy Eargle 5. Jean Pearson and Bobbie Haggarty 6. Tammy Brantley and Hanna and Joshua Pate 7. Kim, Houston, Courtney and Scott Sides 8. Sabrina Rankin, Dean Williams and Pam Carpenter

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OUT & ABOUT

Young Frankenstein Opening Night, Wetumpka Depot Players 7

September 29, 2016 1. Wil and Dana Lanum 2. Richard and Becki Cumbie 3. Ann Popwell and Belda Coburn 4. Jimmy Veazey, Cathy Hegji and Carol Rattan 5. Marian and Jim Pappanastos 6. Leanna Wallace, Lavonne Hart and Adrian Borden 7. Wilt and Sheila Wade and Margaret and Dan Kaylor

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OUT & ABOUT

Titus Bluegrass Festival, Titus Community Center September 24, 2016 6 1. Kristen Lackey and Kevin Nelson 2. Parker Watts and Hayden Lightfoot 3. Belinda Jones and Janna McIver 4. Michell Spencer 5. Mike Ryals, Drew Murchison and Summer Markos 6. Vickie, Daniel and Sara Kassian

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OUT & ABOUT

Fall Break Teacher Planning Day,

Wetumpka Middle School October 11, 2016 1. Warren Brown 2. Cheryl Smoke, Debra Weldon, Michelle Thomas, Becky Cain, Sarah Swedenburg, Sherilyn Morgan and Rosalyn Warren 3. Adonis James, Antonio Harrison and Suzanne Harrison 4. Levi Wright 5. Lucy Loftin, Samantha Curvin and Jermel Bell

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Coming Up CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Now thru Jan. 20 America the Beautiful Exhibit

Kelly Fitzpatrick memorial Gallery proudly presents this photographic celebration of America’s places, faces and activities, featuring the works of several local photographers. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. at 408 S. Main St., Wetumpka. For information, visit thekelly.org or email thekelly36092@ gmail.com.

Oct. 18 Black Bear Awareness

Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association (CRATA) will hold sponosr Alabama Black Bear Alliance spokesman Daniel Powell at 6:30 p.m. at the Red Hill Community Center. With its expansion of pedestrian-only hiking trails at Yates Lake, CRATA hopes to provide as much information as possible about the expansion of the black bear territories and habitats and the animals’ impact on the communities where bears have been sighted, including Union and Lake Martin. The Red Hill Community Center is located near the intersection of state highways 50 and 229. For information, contact Jimmy Lanier at 334462-8565.

Oct. 18 From Sea to Shining Sea

This Tuesday with Kelly brown bag lunch event will spotlight photographers. Led by Libby Christensen, the program will be held upstairs at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery, 408 S. Main St., Wetumpka, from noon until 1 p.m. Beverages and dessert will be provided. For information, visit thekelly.org or email thekelly36092@ gmail.com.

Oct. 20 Women in Business Luncheon

Join American Cancer society Senior Manager Jeannie Smith for lunch at the Millbrook Civic Center from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Local businesses will furnish door prizes and decorate tables. Tickets are $25. For information, call the Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce at 334-2850085.

Oct. 21 - 23 The Glass Menagerie

Wetumpka Depot will present The Glass Menagerie, an American classic that everyone needs to see. Catch one of only three performances for the Depot’s entry to the Alabama Community Theatre Festival Oct. 21 - 23.

Oct. 25 Wetumpka Candy Walk

Bring a canned food item to donate to the Elmore County Food Pantry and dress the kids up for the annual Candy Walk from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. behind the City Administration Building. They can show off their costumes and collect candy. For information, call 334-5675147.

Oct. 26-29 Haunted History Tours

The rich history of Wetumpka’s historic downtown buildings includes hair-raising personal accounts of paranormal activities. Book a spot on the tour of the town’s most haunted spaces – if you dare! You can even participate in a paranormal investigation at one of the city’s buildings. There are paranormal investigation classes for adults as well as junior investigators from ages 13 to 18. Walking tours are $15; extended tour with class, investigation and certificate are $40. Limited availability. Some dates/times are already filled. Call Jamie Young at 334-567-4811 to reserve your place.

Oct. 28 AUM Business Breakfast with David Wasserman

Election analyst David Wasserman will lay out the powerful, long-term forces that have led us to the current milestone in presidential politics, including a cultural self-sorting of the electorate; decentralization of news; a decline in the power of political parties; economic bifurcation; and the global rise of nationalism. Hear his take on the future of American politics and his prognosis of what we can expect in the 2016 presidential and congressional elections. Tickets are $35 for this 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. event at The Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill in Prattville. For information, contact Layne Holley at 334244-3642.

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Oct. 29 Millbrook Boo Fest

The Millbrook Boo Fest will be held in the Village Green Park from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Children are invited to come in friendly costumes, if they choose. Many businesses that would like to give back to Millbrook residents, along with the Millbrook Parks and Recreation Department, will provide safe Halloween activites, games, music and treats. For more information, call Millbrook Parks and Rec at 334-290-2047.

Nov. 2 - Nov. 5 Alabama Frontier Days

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, visitors to Fort Toulouse in Wetumpka can enjoy stepping back in time to see what Alabama looked like from 1700 to 1820. Visitors will see blacksmiths at work, traditional Native American dances, battle re-enactments and more. Tours of the 1751 French Fort Toulouse occupied by a full force of authentically costumed French Colonial Marines and the War of 1812 camp set up next to 1814 Fort Jackson. The Living History enthusiasts give their time during Frontier Days to inform visitors about what life was like in a much harsher time.

Nov. 5 Miss Christmas on the Coosa Pageant

Winners of this annual pageant will represent Christmas on the Coosa and other events and will serve as ambassadors for the City of Wetumpka. The pageant will be held at the Wetumpka Civic Center. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the City Administration Building. Viist www.cityofwetumpka.com and follow the Christmas on the Coosa link under the Play heading for details.

Nov. 11 Veterans Day Service

Eclectic the Beautiful will sponsor a service to honor veterans at Eclectic Veterans Park, 1/2 mile north of downtown on Highway 63 North from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Nov. 11 Veterans Tribute

Tallassee Trade Day Tallassee Trade Day 2016 will be held under the oak trees on historic King Street downtown Tallassee on Oct. 22 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Admission is free. Trade Day visitors can browse the vendor booths for artwork, crafts, homemade food and more. In the Kids’ Zone, children can play carnival games, jump in the bouncy house and win prizes for a $4 admission fee. Local groups will be performing, including dancers from Studio B and Pointed Toe, tumblers from Prime Time and musical entertainment from the River City Band. Vendor applications and more information about the day can be found at www.tallasseechamber.com, by contacting the chamber at 334-283-5151 or by emailing chamber@tallasseechamber.com.

Nov. 15 The Fruited Plain

The annual tribute to Elmore County’s veterans will be held at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church on Highway 231 South in Wetumpka. Jess Meuse will be among the performers at this stirring, inspirational and exceptional tribute. For information, contact Howard Perdue at howard.g.perdue.mil@mail.mil.

Leslie Bailey will lead this month’s Tuesday with Kelly program with What’s Cooking. The Kelly will provide beverages and desserts for this brown bag lunch from noon to 1 p.m. at the Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery on the second floor of the Wetumpka Administration Building, 408 S. Main St. For information, visit thekelly. org or email thekelly36092@gmail.com.

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Cotton Festival The 24th Annual Eclectic Cotton Festival from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Oct. 29 will include a barbecue cook-off with judging in four categories: chicken, Boston butt, brisket and ribs. Winners in each category will receive a $100 cash prize and a plaque. The overall first place winner will receive a $500 cash prize, and the second place winner will receive $250. Competitors may register until the day before the festival by calling Town Hall at 334-541-3581 or downloading the entry forms at www.townofeclectic.com and dropping them off at Town Hall. In addition to the festival’s annual art and photography contest, there will be blue jean decorating in several age categories. Check the website for more information. There will be a Kids’ Zone, the crowning of the queen, classic car show, a dog show, lots of arts and crafts vendors and food vendors. For more information contact Heather Martin at 334-541-3581.

Season-Long Events

Jasmine Hill Gardens

Tallassee Civitan Club

The Civitans meet at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the Budde Building on Gilmer Avenue. This volunteer organization serves individual and community needs by funding and hosting special events for people with developmental disabilities. A social time at 5:30 p.m. preceeds meetings.

Countywide Cleanup Day

The Elmore County Commission sponsors free cleanup days for residents on the second Saturday of odd numbered months. Drop off household and yard trash free of charge at the following locations: old highway department in Kent; old highway department shop in Holtville; Crenshaw Park, Sweeten School, Emerald Mountain Equestrian Center; county jail; Shaylee Place at Hwy 231 and Tutus Road; Old Central Transfer Station; Anne Building in Elmore; CEW&SA parking lot at Redland Road facility. There is no longer a drop-off at the intersection of Redland, Firetower and Dozier roads.

Alabama’s “Little Corner of Greece” will open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 31. Admission is charged. For information, visit www.jasminehill.org or call 334-263-5713.

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 the first Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. 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 details, call 334-578-9485.

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Santuck Flea Market

The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month at 7300 Central Plank Road, Highway 9 in Wetumpka.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 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 more 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/.

Busy Bee Quilters

The quilters meet the second Friday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at the City of Wetumpka Administrative Building. For information, call 334-451-2493.

Cruise-In Car Show

Pull into the Super Foods parking lot on Gilmer Avenue from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. the third Saturday of each month for a look at the spectacular wheels.

Wetumpka City Pops

Wetumpka City Pops Community Band rehearses on Thursdays from 7 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Wetumpka City Administration bulding. Any woodwind, brass and percussion players are encouraged to participate. If you would like to have your upcoming event featured in the Elmore County Living ‘Coming Up!’ calendar activity pages, email details and information to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com by the first of the month. Be sure to include a contact number with your email. Thanks!

ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

Business & Service Directory Tail’s End Thrift Store Great Deals on Summer Clothing for the whole family. New & unique housewares every week.

ADOPT • DONATE • VOLUNTEER

BARGAINS ON NICE KIDS CLOTHES AND FALL DECOR

NEW FACILITY COMING SOON

The Humane Society Of Elmore County

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

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

Wetumpka

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

Prattville

Publix – Cobbs Ford Road

Slapout

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

Tallassee

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

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

ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

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 • To Join, Call 334-567-7811 Alabama Power..........................................................................................................................2 Collier Ford...................................................................................................................................7 Community Hospital................................................................................................................3 Cousins Insurance...................................................................................................................2 5 Fort Toulouse..............................................................................................................................5 Gene Jones Insurance............................................................................................................1 0 Jackson Thornton....................................................................................................................1 0 Jeffcoat Funeral Home...........................................................................................................4 5 Karen's Mane Tamers.............................................................................................................4 4 Kowaliga Whole Health.........................................................................................................4 4 Lake Martin Mini Mall...................................................................................................................... 2 9 Mark's Service Center.........................................................................................................................7 OB-GYN Associates of Montgomery...........................................................................................5 Russell Lands on Lake Martin...................................................................................................... 4 8 Tallassee Health & Rehab, LLC...............................................................................................7 The Humane Society of Elmore County..........................................................................4 4 UAB Heart & Vascular.............................................................................................................1 5

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 Molly Brethauer or Stacy Adams at 334-567-7811 or stop by our office located at 300 Green Street, Wetumpka AL 36092

Trusted. Rooted. Affordable.

Since 1969, one name has served our great community with the care and compassion it deserves — Jeffcoat. We celebrate the beauty of a life and make it our purpose to honor each one respectfully and affordably. Please take the time to compare our prices and services with those of other funeral homes... we know you will be pleasantly surprised. Our family would like to thank you for placing your trust in us for nearly 50 years.

255 Friendship Road • Tallassee • (334) 283-6801 • jeffcoatfuneralhome.com • Since 1969 ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

Part I: Taking Stock

Ultimate Food Fest Gravy

M.K. Moore

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

champion, has butchered a wild hog in

her kitchen and grows

heirloom to-

matoes in her backyard.

While the rest of you are distracted with make your stock, as leaving the house with pumpkin spice flavored everything and buythe stove on is a bad thing. The prep is super ing candy, I have my eye on the food holiday short, but you have to allow time for the stock prize. Thanksgiving. Let’s face it: Halloween is to simmer. In the morning, turn on your oven fun, but it is not a real food holiday, so take a to 400 degrees; get out a sheet pan; and prep minute to think about the upcoming glorious your vegetables. Wash carrots and celery and food day called Thanksgiving. snap into a few pieces. No need to peel or be And I’m talking gravy this year. There is exact. Remove the outer skin of the onion and never enough gravy. And gravy is the very slice in half. Put the veggies and the turkey item that brings wings in the pan together all the and pop in the Turkey Stock Ingredients other dishes. oven for 30 minGravy can save utes. 8 turkey wings a turkey that has While the stuff 4 carrots gone over to the is in the oven, get 4 celery stalks dry side. Gravy out a big pot and 2 medium onions on a dressing and fill it with water. Optional bay leaf and parsley turkey sandwich Turn on medium Black pepper – 6 whole corns or 1 teaspoon ground is sublime. Yes, heat and let the 2 teaspoons salt I know you are water start get6 to 8 quarts of water thinking dressting hot. At this ing between two point, you can slices of bread or add any aromata leftover roll is wrong. But let me tell you, in ics you want, such as bay leaf, parsley and this case, carb-on-carb action just doesn’t get black pepper. The one thing you don’t want to any better. add is salt. Your stock is going to cook down I’m going to get you going on some early for a long time. If you added the salt now, you prep, so your gravy turns out silky, delicious would end up with something too salty to use. and worthy of that turkey over which you are Once your oven stuff has some color, caregoing to slave. You will thank me. fully transfer to the pot with water. Resist the Go to your cupboard and ditch the packet urge to crank it up to power boil. A medium of turkey-flavored gravy mix. And chuck that high heat will do. Let it barely simmer for can of salted water called chicken broth. You about an hour and then turn the heat down, so can never ever have good gravy using those that you just see a few bubbles. Cover the pot two items. Never. Ever. What I want you to do and check on it every hour or so. is make your own turkey stock. The difference After about three hours, add a few teait will make to your gravy is astounding. Yes, spoons of salt and uncover. Continue cooking, it is a bit of work to make your own stock, but but slowly. Don’t full-on boil. After another you have a month to do it. hour, taste it. You should have a rich, flavorful Take a cruise to the frozen meat section of broth. the store to find frozen turkey wings. They are Remove from the heat and strain out the cheap and have the perfect ratio of meat, skin solids. Let it cool; and then, package into quart and bone that will give your stock the body it containers or freezer bags and stash away in needs. Thaw turkey wings in the fridge. the freezer for Thanksgiving. It is money in the You will also need some carrots, onion and bank, I’m telling you. celery. If you want, pick up some bay leaf and Next month, I will tell you how to make the parsley, too. best gravy ever. Pick a day that you will be staying home to

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To advertise contact our marketing consultants Molly Brethauer or Stacy Adams at 334-567-7811 ELMORE COUNTY LIVING

Memorable occasions at our place or yours Whether planning your corporate event, an intimate dinner in your home or a lavish holiday party, catherine’s market, koWaliga and springhouse offer an array of delectable catering options sure to impress your guests and make your occasion truly unforgettable .

Holiday parties and dinners Small, intimate, in-home gatherings Corporate functions to personal celebrations Business breakfasts, lunches and meetings Private chefs at your location At your venue or ours h Modest or magnificent, we’ll take care of all the details, so you don’t have to.

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Contact: Stacey Jones phone: 256.215.7035 www.KowaligaRestaurant.com