2026-2027 The South's Best Kept Secret

The South’s Best Kept Secret

Alexander City & The Lake Martin Area

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The Lake Martin area is the jewel of Alabama, drawing visitors from across the nation to live, work and play in Alexander City and at the lake. Whether you are here to drink in the retreat offered by a second home, live your dream of retirement on the water or join the local workforce, you couldn’t have picked a better place than Alexander City and the Lake Martin area to call your new home. Welcome to

The South’s Best Kept Secret.

WWelcome to Alexander City, Alabama! My name is Steve Robinson, and as President CEO for the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and a native of Alexander City, I am glad to have the opportunity to introduce you to our town. There are four generations of our family living here. Whether you are joining our community permanently, living here part time, visiting a while or just passing through, we are happy to have you.

Alexander City, Tallapoosa County and the Lake Martin area have numerous offerings and boundless opportunities. Serving as the crown jewel of the area is Lake Martin, which boasts approximately 880 miles of beautiful shoreline and more than 44,000 acres of pristine, deep water.

Lake Martin’s unrivaled beauty and recreation have earned it the title of Alabama’s Freshwater Coast. In a state known for its coastal region along the Gulf of Mexico, Lake Martin brings the on-the-water fun with a freshwater flare.

Fed by the Tallapoosa River and numerous accessible creeks and streams, the Lake Martin lifestyle extends beyond the shorelines and reaches into the surrounding areas through fishing, hiking, kayaking and canoeing, trail riding, camping, agriculture and more experiences that have been enjoyed for generations of locals and visitors alike.

Not only does Lake Martin provide abundant recreational and hospitality offerings, but also it is a key driver of economic and business activity through the residential construction industry. A wide array of skilled trades are in high demand to fuel development activity, and the demand in those areas will continue as new developments occur and others require ongoing maintenance and service. In addition, tourists and part-time resident consumers are added to the mix of full-time residents to create a diverse base for businesses in retail, restaurants and professional services.

Lake Martin is celebrating its’ 100th anniversary this year! We are making 2026 a year of celebration in the Lake Martin community. Numerous events have been celebrated using the 100th anniversary theme and many more are planned. Make sure you join the celebration!

WELCOME to Alexander City Steve Robinson

We continue to see advances in other strategic areas, such as healthcare and education. Russell Medical, a top-

rated, not-for-profit acute care facility and part of the UAB Health System, continues facility expansions and adding new services to enhance the healthcare offerings in the area.

The Alexander City and the Tallapoosa County school systems continue to modernize and expand through longterm financial support, enabling capital projects for new schools and facility updates.

The new Benjamen Russell High School opened in February and celebrated its’ first graduating class in May. The 2026 graduates obtained a record setting, amount of scholarships.

The City of Alexander City continues to make investments in city services and infrastructure improvements and expansions, providing residents with reliable services while positioning untapped areas for growth.

Robinson

Entertainment and recreational offerings are seemingly nonstop with a vibrant live music scene around the area, including community festivals, arts, special events, youth sports and activities for all ages. It is not surprising there were over two million visits to our community over the past twelve months!

When you add it all up, I guess it does make for something worth knowing about – a community that features one of the most treasured lakes in the United States, a diverse economy, major investment in education and healthcare, amazing outdoor recreation, vibrant entertainment options and all of that in a centralized location.

The South’s Best Kept Secret might not be a secret for much longer. So, hurry up and come join us!

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce President CEO

THE 100-YEAR LEGACY OF LAKE MARTIN

STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE

PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE, AUDRA SPEARS & COURTESY OF CRATA

One hundred years ago, the landscape of Lake Martin looked vastly different than it does today. Instead of boats cutting across open water and families gathering at lakeside homes and restaurants, the Tallapoosa River wound through thick forests, quiet farmlands and small communities nestled throughout the valley.

Now, Lake Martin stands as both an engineering marvel and one of Alabama’s most beloved destinations. Known for its scenic outdoor recreation, iconic landmarks and prestigious title as a “Treasured Lake,” this year the community celebrates Lake Martin’s centennial milestone — marking a century brimming with innovation, transformation and generations of memories along the shoreline.

And it all began with the vision of one man — and a dam.

The historical legacy of Lake Martin traces back to Thomas Wesley Martin, president of Alabama Power from 1920 to 1949. A true industrial pioneer and visionary, Martin’s goal for the dam was ambitious — to harness the power of the Tallapoosa River to generate hydroelectricity, provide flood control and support the water supply for the growing Tallapoosa, Elmore and Coosa counties.

The monumental project forever changed the Southeast region. After a decade of navigating legal hurdles and land acquisitions, Alabama Power secured the official licenses to develop the river valley

in June 923, setting off a massive physical transformation of the area.

In preparation for the eventual flooding of the region, entire communities in the river valley were relocated, including Susannah, Irma and the historical town of Benson. Trees, homes and churches were cleared while more than 900 gravesites across 12 cemeteries were carefully exhumed and moved to new locations on higher ground.

By July 24, 1923, construction crews began building what was then called the Cherokee Bluffs Dam, which was one of the largest engineering projects in Alabama history.

Rising 168 feet above the Tallapoosa River and stretching 2,000 feet across Cherokee Bluffs, the dam required hundreds of thousands of cubic yards of concrete and a workforce of thousands to complete the project. To support the growing number of workers and their families, a temporary community known as the City of Cherokee Bluffs sprang up near the dam site, complete with small homes, a hospital, a school and recreational facilities. The temporary town remained inhabited until the dam’s completion in 1926, at which

Early

point the temporary town was disassembled and transitioned into housing for the permanent dam operating staff.

After three years of construction, the dam was completed and the floodgates were closed on June 9, 1926. As the Tallapoosa River valley slowly filled with water over the next two years, the reservoir finally reached full pool on April 23, 1928, and Lake Martin was officially formed.

At the time, it was the largest man-made body of water in the world, holding the prestigious title until the Hoover Dam was completed in 1936 – the same year the Cherokee Bluffs Dam was renamed Martin Dam in honor of the man who started it all.

Over the course of the next century, the 800 miles of shoreline transformed into the popular destination seen today, filled with beloved traditions and generations of memories and stories that have made Lake Martin a legacy unlike any other.

Iconic landmarks have become a staple to the summer season, such as the towering rock formation Acapulco Rock, commonly referred to by visitors as Chimney Rock. Each year it draws in thousands of

boaters to tie up, socialize and watch as brave swimmers jump from its colorful, spray-painted ledges.

Countless islands throughout the lake waters have also become a boater’s playground, with themed destinations such as Pirate Island, Cheeseburger Island and Sand Island becoming favorite places to pull up, drop anchor and swim. Other destinations such as Goat Island live on as a fond memory, where at one time families would boat up to its sandy shoreline and feed friendly goats that resided on its banks.

Lake Martin is also defined by its unmatched outdoor recreation and community traditions.

Wind Creek State Park has evolved into one of the largest campgrounds in the Southeast, providing yearround seasonal traditions where families gather around campfires year after year, while specialty camps such as Children’s Harbor and Camp ASCCA have become lifechanging retreats for children facing serious illnesses and living with disabilities.

Hiking trails formed by Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association speckle the shorelines while historical fire towers allow visitors to get a bird’s eye view of the sprawling waters.

In recent years, Lake Martin has also received national recognition, being named the No. 2 destination in the country for watersports, a premier hub for fishing tournaments and home to a top-10 luxury glamping resort by USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

Its pristine shorelines have also been known to draw in famous figures, such as legendary SEC football coaches, Miss America 2025 Abbie Stockard and American Idol winner Taylor Hicks — all known to frequent the lake for rest and relaxation.

Perhaps the most famous of all was country music icon Hank Williams, who found inspiration at Lake Martin for his legendary 1952 hit song “Kaw-Liga,” based on local community folklore and native history.

The heartbeat of summer at Lake Martin lives on through beloved events such as the Fourth of July fireworks and concerts at The AMP, while Alan Jackson’s legendary Aquapalooza performance has earned its place in local dockside lore.

And while the history of Lake Martin is rich and vibrant, the community still keeps the anniversary of the lake’s creation close to its heart.

Today, that legacy is celebrated every March 1 with the tradition of Plug Day. Each winter, the lake’s water levels are lowered as part of Alabama Power’s annual drawdown. Then, on Plug Day, the dam’s floodgates are closed,and the water once again begins to rise — kicking off a community-wide countdown to full pool and the unofficial return of boating season.

And with the waters now risen for Lake Martin’s centennial summer, the community reflects on and celebrates a century of remarkable transformation, cherished memories and a profound history.

Thomas Wesley Martin once stood on the ridgeline of Cherokee Bluffs, envisioning a future that would forever shape the region — but it is the communities and generations of families who gather at Lake Martin that have built the heart and soul of the lake’s story.

And, as Lake Martin steps into its second century, it’s the shared love and passion for this treasured destination that ensures its legacy will continue to thrive for many more generations to come.

Spend the Day on the Lake

STORY BY KAYLI WILLIAMS

A sunset cruise is the perfect way to end a day on the lake

Lake Martin is Tallapoosa County’s most beloved landmark, with hundreds of thousands of people visiting from all over the country each year. On this beautiful man-made lake, which turned 100 years old in June, there is no shortage of activities and attractions to spend your day enjoying.

If you or someone you know needs any recommendations for what to do on the water, look no further. From seasonal recommendations to activities that are best year-round, Sandra Fuller, the president and CEO of Explore Lake Martin, knows the lake like the back of her hand.

“We definitely are a recreational lake,” Fuller said. “I don’t know if a lot of lakes have this many places to go and see and do.”

She’s right — Lake Martin has significantly more attractions than almost every other lake in Alabama.

When asked for her top recommendations for attractions on or by the water, Fuller was excited to encourage visitors, especially those new to the lake, to visit Peanut Point.

“It looks like an island. You can definitely drive on it at some point, somewhere, but everyone comes by boat,” she said, recommending that you visit if you are ever on the water at Lake Martin. “They have boiled peanuts that they sell, and they sell a ton of them, and they are absolutely delicious,” she said before highlighting the ice cream and apparel available for purchase.

Although there are plenty of items to purchase at Peanut Point, it is important to note that access is free. If you don’t want to purchase anything, you can simply walk around or sit by the water to take in the wonders of Lake Martin. While Peanut Point is seasonal and only open on weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day, it is one of the most popular places to visit on the lake.

One of Lake Martin’s most popular hangout spots and the public’s point of access to Lake Martin is Wind Creek State Park, which Fuller made sure to highly recommend. Public access is relatively affordable,

with a $5 daily entrance fee per person. That price is even lower for children 11 and under and elders 62 and up, at only $2 per person. There are also annual passes available for purchase at the park office if you see yourself spending a lot of time at the lake.

When you visit Wind Creek, you’ll notice the never-ending options for activities both on land and in the water. To name a few options, there are fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, mini-golfing, and ziplining.

Shaylee Beck Moore, a travel blogger and current editor-in-chief for LAKE magazine, said she enjoys camping at Wind Creek. The park has one of the largest state-operated campgrounds in the country with 586 campsites. Wind Creek also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including fishing tournaments and events to celebrate different holidays.

“Of course, Fourth of July is just packed out there, but they also do the fall fest or boo fest, so people decorate their RVs like Halloween, and they decorate their RVs during Christmas, and people do trick or treat, and they walk from RV to RV, and everybody›s all dressed up in costumes, and just a very, very family-friendly time,” Fuller said, regarding her experience participating and observing these events at Wind Creek.

When it comes to free options around Lake Martin, Fuller and Moore mentioned hiking the Smith Mountain trails has proven to be very enjoyable. Both women made it clear that these trails are desirable yearround, as hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities when it’s cold.

“The cool thing is, when the water levels drop, there are whole different sides to Lake Martin. There’s this one hiking trail you can only access for a couple of months out of the year, and that’s when the water levels are at their lowest,” Beck Moore said. “During the summer, it’s a series of islands. When the water goes down, they all connect to make a hiking trail.”

She highlighted this trail, the Island Hop

Trail, as her favorite in the winter because of its seasonal rarity. The Island Hop Trail is available all year, but the hike is extended by a quarter mile in the winter due to the water levels dropping. This trail isn’t the only trail recommended in the winter, though.

Fuller mentioned her favorite trail to recommend all year is the Jerry Walker Bynum Fire Tower Trail, which leads to the former Smith Mountain Fire Tower.

“I love that because people can walk up to the highest point on Lake Martin, and they get on the 90-foot tower and just see such a beautiful view, along with all the rock formations that are there. I think that that’s just definitely a fun place,” Fuller said.

Beck Moore also said the Jerry Walker Bynum Fire Tower Trail was one of her favorite year-round trails simply because it is one of the best spots to view the sunset over the lake.

“You can actually climb up 90 feet and stand there and see the sun setting,” she said. “You’re in the sky, and you see the sun setting over Kowaliga Bay. I get goosebumps just thinking about it.”

According to Beck Moore, if you don’t watch at least one sunset at Lake Martin, you aren’t experiencing Lake Martin the right way.

“You will hear about the famous Lake Martin sunsets, and that’s because no matter where you are out on the lake, it is just stunning,” Beck Moore said. “I have traveled this entire country, and I’ve never seen sunsets like the ones that you see here at Lake Martin.”

These are only some of the best attractions Lake Martin has to offer. If you’re visiting Alabama’s “treasured lake,” make sure to stop by some of the waterfront restaurants or participate in an event going on. For more information, go to explorelakemartin.com.

RURAL LIVING at its best

Literally one of Tallapoosa County’s best kept secrets are the northern areas of the county where residents enjoy a rural lifestyle — while still within driving distance of whatever they can’t find locally. The largest of these towns is New Site, located about 10 miles northeast of Alexander City.

Due to the location, most residents work in Alexander City, but the town is a true 30-minute drive to Lineville and Ashland in Clay County.

Several years ago, non-locals discovered Horseshoe Bend School and the town has experienced slow growth with families moving to the area for their children to attend the school, part of the Tallapoosa County Schools system.

Now in his third term, New Site Mayor Phil Blasingame has worked with the town council to provide as many amenities as possible to both long-time residents and newcomers to the small town.

“People move here to get a top notch education for their children in a safe environment,” Blasingame said. “We try to give all citizens the necessities to go along with the school to make them want to stay here.”

One of the biggest projects was the addition of a

clinic. Partnering with Russell Medical and Jackson Drugs, Health Partners of New Site is located next to town hall and has helped not only the aging population get easily accessible healthcare, but also young families. Inside the clinic, a full-service pharmacy, Jackson’s Apothecary, also stocks other necessary items such as cleaning supplies and paper goods.

Now under construction, a radiology room is being added to the clinic. The addition is expected to be finished in September.

“What put a clinic in my mind was back when Dr. (Robert) Bartel had a clinic here,” Blasingame said. ”Every time (my grandmother would) go, I’d be in the waiting room. There were always senior citizens needing help.”

Once he became mayor, having another clinic in New Site became a top priority.

“We’re bigger than we were then, we have an aging community and it’s a rural area,” Blasingame said. “Remembering (Dr. Bartel’s office) has always stuck with me.”

Blasingame is a big believer in quality of life and has worked with the council and town clerk Shelia Fuller to secure as many grants as possible to provide recreation-

al areas and activities for the community. Another thing the town has done is try to reuse what is already available.

Located immediately behind town hall there is a pavilion, a small playground and a new walking track, which ended up taking about eight years to complete. The asphalt walking track surrounds the landing pad for LifeFlight. When LifeFlight has been called in the past, there has been no official landing pad, the helicopter would land either in the town’s recreational complex or at the school’s football field.

The town’s recreational complex is located across from town hall and each portion of it was a part of the now closed New Site High School. The school closed, along with schools in Daviston and Hackneyville, when Horseshoe Bend School was built.

Along with baseball and softball fields, the town also has a gymnasium. Part of the old school was left, the elementary school, which has been refurbished into a senior center.

The ball field boasts three fields, plus a press box and a concession stand. The press box was left from the old school and not used much for press anymore. It overlooks the ball fields which used to be the New Site Warriors football field.

“We have top-notch youth sports facilities,” Blasingame said. “You’ve got to have extracurricular activities for kids.”

The original New Site school gym is also being used after the town renovated it.

“Plenty of people wanted to tear the gym down,” he said. “I said ‘let’s put it back the way it was.’ We can’t afford a new gym, let’s do with what we’ve got.”

The refurbished landmark now boasts a big youth basketball program.

Over 100 kids play youth basketball now,” Blasingame said. “That gym is used tremendously.”

Another service the town provides is its senior center — another idea the mayor got from his grandmother.

“I grew up with my grandmother,” he said. “I wanted a special place for our senior citizens.”

Blasingame said after his first goal of getting a clinic in New Site was realized, his No. 2 goal was having a senior center.

“The elementary school was just sitting there,” he said.

Blasingame acknowledged all of the current amenities took a lot of people working together.

“I had the idea, but I couldn’t do it by myself,” he said. “I’ve always said you have to surround yourself with good people.”

Natural amenities in the area include places to camp, fish or put a boat in.

While there is no mall or shopping center, residents can find all their basic retail needs can be met in New Site. The town boasts a medium size grocery store, a convenience store, a hardware store, a Dollar General and two quality restaurants. There are also numerous small in-home businesses that provide things such as home-baked goods and even the printed team shirts for youth sports.

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BIG-TIME NEWS IN SMALL-TOWN FORM

STORY BY KAYLI WILLIAMS

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALABAMA PRESS ASSOCIATION & SHANE HARRIS

When it comes to media in a small town, there is not always a guaranteed publisher to handle local news about water quality and high school sports. Large news outlets generally have no interest in creating headline stories about the awards presented to a small-town nurse or an upcoming farmer’s market with fewer than 20 vendors. In the Lake Martin area, however, the local news is covered and expanded on by a number of stations and newspapers, covering news from not just one town, not just one county, but everywhere surrounding the crown jewel of the South.

“When they come on The Front Porch, I don't call it an interview. It's a conversation, that's what you do on a front porch.”

publishes a print edition twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Outlook covers all sorts of news in Alexander City, from high school sports, city council meetings, crime, new businesses, upcoming events, and more. The Record, first published in 1898, covers everything related to Dadeville and is published once a week on Thursdays. The Herald was founded in 1896 to report news from all around Wetumpka and releases a print edition each Wednesday. The newest outlet of the four produced by TPI, The Tribune, was founded over a century ago in 1919 and publishes Tallassee-centric news every Wednesday.

Kenny Dean, The Front Porch

Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. is the most notable publisher of local news in Tallapoosa County and is a major contributor to local news in Elmore and Coosa counties. TPI publishes the award-winning outlets The Alex City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, The Wetumpka Herald, and The Tallassee Tribune. Each of these outlets focuses on news for a specific area to ensure there is as much coverage as possible throughout the Lake Martin area.

First published in 1884, The Outlook

TPI newspaper editor Lizi Arbogast describes the publisher’s work as impactful on both the community and herself.

“I think our work is really like the voice of the community, right? So, like, we give a voice to people that wouldn’t otherwise have one,” Arbogast said. “I get to be part of people’s lives when they’re at their highest, and when they’re at their lowest. I’ve gotten opportunities to cover everything from sports state championships to people winning teacher of the year and woman of the year, and those big awards that mean a lot, and I’ve also been part of tragedies like tornadoes and a mass shooting, and so it’s

afforded me the opportunity to really get to know a lot of different cross-sections of the community.”

While many people may only recognize them for their newspaper outlets, TPI also publishes magazines, including two monthly magazines, LAKE and Lake Martin Living. Both magazines cover rich stories and imagery from all over the Lake Martin area. LAKE focuses on reaching the community about everything related to Lake Martin itself, whether it be the restaurants around the lake or upcoming events and activities. Stories in the LAKE magazines can include anything from festival recaps to commentaries on the rise of Airbnb in the area.

Lake Martin Living, on the other hand, focuses on events and activities that occur off the lake in Tallapoosa, Elmore and Coosa counties. This magazine produces stories that include anything from reminders of historical battles to explanations of new businesses and leaders.

In addition to LAKE and Lake Martin Living, TPI publishes five annual special edition magazines, including The South’s Best Kept Secret. To subscribe to any TPI publication, visit alexcityoutlook.com and click on the green ‘Subscribe’ button in the top right corner, or call 256-234-4281. TPI also has social media pages and websites for each magazine and newspaper.

When it comes to media beyond print, the Lake Martin area is rich with options as well. Lake Broadcasting Incorporated Media holds its headquarters in Alexander City and is the home to several of the television and radio stations the area has to offer.

WAXC-TV is the local television station that covers live and local lifestyle stories and sports. For Charter cable customers, the station can be found on channel 2. It also has a YouTube channel to subscribe to in case someone doesn’t have cable, which is @waxctv. This channel covers football and basketball games and episodes of popular programs. Another popular station produced by LBI is Kowaliga Country 97.5, which covers current country music hits, news, weather and the latest events.

One of WAXC TV’s most popular programs is Kenny Dean’s The Front Porch, which is a talk show that airs from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. Monday through Friday and is also available for listening on Kowaliga County 97.5. The show began on October 5, 1995, and has been wellloved for its casual tone.

“When they come on The Front Porch, I don’t call it an interview. It’s a conversation, that’s what you do on a front porch,” Dean said.

He focuses on talking to everyday locals as well as community figureheads, athletes, and business owners. The topics Dean tries to focus on are those that are more light-hearted and casual, as opposed to just focusing on the local news.

“We just try to keep it positive, upbeat, a lot of cutting up, carrying on, and a good laugh every time,” Dean said.

If someone happens to miss The Front Porch when it airs in the morning, it replays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

In addition to the social media pages of TPI and Kowaliga Country, there are numerous pages and accounts on various social media platforms dedicated to covering information about the Lake Martin area. Despite the assumption that a small community would have a shortage of media, Alexander City and the surrounding towns and counties have everything covered. Feel free to stop by the offices of Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. to ask questions and find help getting connected.

Eat. Drink. Repeat.

Alana’s Place 126 Marshall St

Alexander City

256-392-3650

Amazin Grazin 368 North BRdnax St Dadeville 256-307-9670

Azteca’s Mexican Grill 18092 US Highway 280 Dadeville 256-307-1898

Bluffs Daiquiri Bar at Harbor Pointe ]

397 Marina Point Rd

Dadeville

256-496-6715

Big B Bar-B-Que 1626 AL-22

Alexander City

256-329-9996

Bob’s Fine Food 306 North BRdnax St Dadeville 256-307-1824

Buck’s 1171 Tallapoosa St

Alexander City 256-392-3565

Camellia Café on the Square 105 W Columbus St Dadeville 256-307-1114

Carib Kitchen 68 BRd St

Alexander City 256-392-4433

Carlisle’s Old-Fashioned Soda

Fountain 12 Main St.

Alexander City 256-392-4622

Carlos Mexican Grill 136 Wheeler St

Alexander City 256-329-9901

Catherine’s Market & BRU 63 17 Russell Farms Rd

Alexander City 256-215-7070

Cazador 13033 AL-22 E New Site 256-392-4666

Cazadores Mexican Restaurant 910 Cherokee Rd Alexander City, 256-392-3991

Chuckwalla’s Pizzeria ] 237 Marina Rd Dadeville 256-825-7733

Creem at the Creek ] 4325 AL-128

Alexander City 256-786-2872

Dairy Creem 2939 Dadeville Rd

Alexander City 256-234-6199

Doc’s Café

Russell Medical Hwy 280 Alexander City

Ellie Mays Homeplate Café 191 E. South St Dadeville 256-307-1095

Eula Mae’s 110 Calhoun St

Alexander City 256-392-4999

Fanny’s 57 Russell Farms Rd

Alexander City 256-215-7090

G’s Kountry Kitchen 480 Laurel St Alexander City 256-392-5122

General’s Cafe 11051 AL-22 New Site 256-234-2121

Golden Dragon 819 Cherokee Rd Alexander City 256-392-4367

Good Ole Boys BBQ 4886 US-280 Alexander City 256-329-0011

Carlisle's is an old-fashioned soda shop

Huddle House 4727 US Highway 280

Alexander City 256-215-7267

Jake’s Restaurant 16 BRd St.

Alexander City 256-234-4300

Jim Bob’s Chicken Fingers 1264 Cherokee Rd.

Alexander City 256-215-3998

JR’s Sports Bar and Grill 145 Alabama St

Alexander City AL 256-329-2328

Kowaliga Restaurant ] 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd

Alexander City 256-215-7035

Lake Martin Pizza Co. 5042 AL-49 South Dadeville 256-373-3337

Lake Martin Pizza Co. 8469 Highway 63 South

Alexander City 256-587-2006

La Posada Mexican Grill 3714 US Highway 280

Alexander City 256-329-3005

Cool off with Kona Ice

Mama T’s Place 211 N BRdnax St Dadeville 256-307-1259

MawMaw’s Cornbread Kitchen 22817 AL-22 Daviston 256-395-9019

Me Mama’s Grub Hub 332 E South St Dadeville 256-373-3314

Miller’s on BRdnax 114 Broadnax St Dadeville 256-307-1238

Nirvana Latte 5054 AL-49 South Dadeville 256-307-1253

New China 867 Market Place Alexander City 256-329-0308

Niffer’s Place at Lake Martin 7500 AL-49 South Dadeville 256-825-5950

NolaBama Bisto 109 W South St Dadeville 256-307-1777

Ooh Crabs Juicy Seafood 17957 US Highway 280 Dadeville 256-307-1163

Oskar’s Café 6684 AL-49 South Dadeville 256-825-4827

Poplar Dawg’s Eatery 10277 County Rd 34 Dadeville 256-825-9288

Prime Steakhouse at Stillwaters 797 Moonbrook Drive Dadeville 256-373-3536

Ronin Sushi and Bar 863 Market Place Alexander City 256-392-4505

Ruby Tuesday 4097 US-280 Alexander City 256-234-4047

Sakura Bistro 4034 US-280 Alexander City 256-234-9833

Scoopy’s Tacos 8212 County Rd 34 Dadeville 678-614-1701

Sho’Nuff BBQ 651 Alex City Shopping Center Drive Alexander City 256-234-7675

SpringHouse 12 Benson Mill Rd Alexander City 256-215-7080

Sun’s Diner 993 Airport Drive Alexander City 256-392-4446

Taqueria Avita 60 Broad St Alexander City 256-392-3457

The Burritos Corner

Mexican Grill 8605 AL-50 Dadeville 256-307-1887

The Funky Goat 145 N Tallassee Dadeville 256-307-1675

The Landing at Harbor Pointe ] 77 Marina Point Rd Dadeville 205 410-6091

The Landing at Parker Creek ]

8300 Parker Creek Marina Rd Equality 205-410-6091

The Social at Lake Martin ] 2001 Castaway Island Rd Eclectic 334-458-0260

The Station’s Best 977 Jefferson St Alexander City 256-234-3500

Wharf Casual Seafood 4011 US Highway 280 Alexander City 256-392-3227

Who’s Diner 1560 Alabama-22 Alexander City (256) 212-1501

WingCity 174 Broad St Alexander City 256-392-5488

SWEETS, TREATS & DRINKS

Alex City Nutrition 2 BRd St Alexander City 256-496-8284

Millhouse Coffee 3316 US Highway 280 Alexander City 256-397-7711

Rita’s Italian Ice & Custard 8469 Highway 63 South Alexander City 256-392-4265

Scooter’s Coffee 4141 US-280 Alexander City 256-392-3651

Tallapoosa Nutrition 132 W Cusseta St Dadeville 256-307-4052

The Grand Bakery 114 North BRdnax St Dadeville 256-307-1332

Two Ghosts Coffee 222 W Cusseta St Dadeville 256-790-9785

Yellow Top Ice Cream Shop ] On-the-water seasonal ice cream boat 205-531-7628

Kona Ice Seasonal icee truck ] WATERFRONT

Council Charts a New Course

Fresh leadership, new priorities and a shared vision aim to shape the community's next chapter.

STORY & PHOTOS BY GWEN BISHOP

“ The key is understanding how your role can help the council and (Mayor Mike Densmore) be successful in our duties to the citizens. The council does not work for the mayor nor does the mayor work for the council.  We are the employees of the voters of Alexander City. Our role is to be honest, transparent and accountable in everything we do.”

Bill Young, District 2 councilmember

Councilmembers Bill Young and Bobby Tapley

In November 2025, an almost entirely brand new council, as well as mayor, was sworn in to govern Alexander City.

And they’re not only new to leading Alex City — five of the seven are completely new to politics.

The lone returning councilmember, District 1’s Bobby Tapley, has not taken his leadership role lightly, as he was elected by his peers to serve as council president.

“There is a learning curve,” Tapley said. “But they are all eager to learn and they ask plenty of good questions.”

Tapley said this was the second time during his tenure he was the only returning council member.

“The good thing (this time) is the previous council and mayor left us in good shape, which helps a lot,” he said.

District 2 councilmember Bill Young is also not new to the council. He served from 2008-2012. This time around his peers elected him to serve as president pro tempore, meaning he will serve as president of the council if Tapley cannot perform his duties.

The governing body is still early enough into their terms so a lot of what they have done so far has been normal, dayto-day governmental functions while they’re still learning the laws that govern them.

“Our roles are very simple and are identified by the League of Municipalities,” Young said. “The key is understanding how your role can help the council and (Mayor Mike Densmore) be

successful in our duties to the citizens. The council does not work for the mayor nor does the mayor work for the council. We are the employees of the voters of Alexander City. Our role is to be honest, transparent and accountable in everything we do.”

The Alabama League of Municipalities offers courses on the rules and regulations that govern both the council and mayor. Many courses are required once someone is elected. Densmore cites these classes and other training materials as the best source for learning his role.

“Training sessions at the League of Municipalities have offered excellent coaching relative to (the) roles and responsibilities of mayor, councilpersons and others as well as guidance on legalities and ethics,” Densmore said.

He also gives credit to many of the city employees.

“Most of the employees of the city have been very gracious, sharing insight and understanding,” Densmore said. “I’ve also established a diverse mayor’s advisory committee that meets monthly.”

District 6 councilmember Mike Lucas has found that experience is a good teacher.

“As constituents in my district have come to me with problems and questions, I’ve learned what can and cannot be done,” Lucas said. “So far, I have realized there is a lot to city government. We have attended municipal conferences that have been very informative as to the rules and regulations.”

District 3 councilmember Julie Goree finds asking questions and reading have helped her learn more about serving on the council.

“I’ve been intentional about learning the boundaries of this office by seeking guidance from city leadership, reviewing policies and asking questions before taking action,” Goree said. “Understanding what a council member can and cannot do is critical and I rely on collaboration and legal guidance to make sure I operate within those limits.”

challenges and nuances,” Tuck said. “You should be continuously learning and growing, wherever that may take you.”

Serving the community as an elected official not only has its specific challenges and learning curve, but there are personal experiences involved that only come from fulfilling the role and learning about the residents.

“I’ve learned most of our people care at a deep level, are gracious and patient, proud of our city and want to enjoy a better quality of life,” Densmore said. “Most also want to see constructive change, unity of spirit, competitive education, quality homes, engaging amenities, excellent healthcare and jobs that are enabling and sustainable.”

Densmore said to make all of these changes, city leaders will have to be forward thinking.

“You can’t solve the issues of today and tomorrow with the tools of yesterday,” he said. “One thing is clear, what

we need to do is often not what we want to do.”

Young has discovered many 2026 issues are the same as when he previously held office.

Kelly Waldrop, District 4 councilmember, does have 10 years of experience serving on the Alexander City Schools Board of Education but said there is a big difference between the two.

“The city is more complex than the school board — bigger budgets and many more departments,,” Waldrop said. “But the department heads and staff have been very helpful. We’ve got a good team at city hall.”

He also notes it is apparent to him already where there are issues.

“We have financial and infrastructure challenges,” Waldrop said. “Addressing our finances will yield a long term and short term strategy to focus on our infrastructure.”

Jaden Tuck, District 5 councilmember and one of the youngest to serve in Alex City, said he knew the role would be challenging and require learning the rules.

“Anytime you start something new it will have its own

“I’ve learned in the first four months that we have a lot of the same problems that we had back in 2012,” Young said. “Our citizens must realize that we have to continue to focus on upgrading our infrastructure which will not correct itself overnight. This is a concern for all communities around the U.S. and it’s here to stay. When a council inherits financial concerns, infrastructure problems and economic challenges from both previous councils and community setbacks, it can only do one thing. It does no good to point fingers on why we are here.”

Tuck has already learned it takes a lot of people to get things done.

“There is no magic wand,” Tuck said. “It takes a bunch of people to get things done. We have to pool our resources as a collective and then make decisions.”

Goree said the complexity of local government surprised her.

“Local government is far more complex than most people realize,” she said. “Every issue — whether it’s infrastructure, budgeting or public safety — has layers of

history, regulations and financial considerations behind it. Decisions are rarely simple and it’s important to look at both the short-term impact and the long-term consequences for the community.”

While the newest elected officials may still be doing a lot of learning, Tapley said as a whole, he believes everything is going well.

“We’re on a good path,” Tapley said. “We have had some disagreements, but we’re getting along and we’re communicating. We’re not going to agree 100% of the time; we all have different opinions — as long as we’re still friends afterwards.”

While the city has had to replace a few key employees recently, Tuck said overall the city is moving forward.

“We’re a little behind on the comprehensive plan because (the city) had to hire a new community development coordinator,” Tuck said. “But I think we’ll be set up for tremendous success.”

Densmore spent his first few months in office taking a careful look at exactly where the city is and feels confident about the direction the governing body needs to take.

“We have made some progress in defining a truthful understanding of our current state and some key initiatives that must be completed successfully,” Densmore said. “If we get our act together and work for Alexander City, I can see significant promise within a year. If we choose to play politics instead, we could disappoint our people. We need to work together in service for the next three years before we pick up any political batons.”

Goree believes things are moving in the right direction.

“I’m learning more every day, asking thoughtful questions and working hard to understand the full picture behind each issue before making decisions,” she said. “Building relationships with the mayor, fellow council members, city staff and residents has been a priority and I feel encouraged by the collaboration so far.”

Young said he believes everyone on the council loves Alex City.

“I also know that each of us have different ideas of who we are as a community and what we need to continue to

progress,” Young said.

“A council that rubber stamps ideas without researching the pros and cons of our decisions is only weakening our community. Alex City has tremendous citizens with great knowledge of our history. Each of these citizens are tools for our council’s decisions and success. The key is recognizing the individuals that are sincere versus the ones that have hidden agendas.”

Every member of the council and the mayor are in agreement they need to be transparent and make sure residents know what is going on at the government level. The new council added an extra public comments option to the council’s meeting agenda to allow citizens to speak before items are voted on. Previously, public comments were only allowed after the council had voted on all the items on the agenda.

“We want residents to be able to speak before the vote,” Tapley said. “We want to make sure every individual can work hands-on with the council.”

Tuck said it was a good way for the council to hear other opinions.

“Because everything was already voted on, their opinions were null and void because the decision had already been made,” Tuck said. “In an effort to be transparent and to show (the residents’) voices truly matter, now they can speak up front.”

Goree said a recent experience in her personal life showed her the importance of being transparent as a councilmember.

“Serving publicly means your actions are often viewed through a different lens,” she said. “I was placed in a situation where I was falsely accused of wrongdoing and a report was printed based on hearsay before facts were verified. That experience was challenging, but it strengthened my resolve to lead with transparency and integrity.”

Young agrees transparency is a must.

“I believe in laying all of our cards on the table so that all citizens can see what we are up against,” Young said. “They should know the troubling issues just as they should know the potential successes coming that will help us overcome these challenges.”

Along with transparency, Waldrop said there was no way everyone in the city would be happy.

“So far we’ve all been aligned but I know there will be a time when we will disagree on what’s best for the city and our districts,” Waldrop said.

“And I’m sure everyone won’t be happy with me. I’d like to please everyone but that’s not going to happen.”

Russell Medical is proud to be ranked among the Top 3 Hospitals in Alabama — a distinction earned through relentless innovation, exceptional outcomes, and a

Russell Medical is proud to be ranked among the Top 3 Hospitals in Alabama a distinction

From robotic-assisted surgery to precision diagnostics, our advanced technologies rival those found in leading metropolitan institutions. But what truly sets us apart? Personalized care with compassion at its core, delivered in the heart of Alexander City.

From robotic-assisted surgery to precision diagnostics, our advanced technologies rival those found in

institutions. But what truly sets us apart? Personalized care with compassion at its core, delivered in the heart of Alexander City.

Russell

Russell

HEALTHCARE

Award-winning healthcare is the standard in the Lake Martin area, and you’ll find a wide spectrum of quality services here that rarely are available outside of large metropolitan areas

RUSSELL MEDICAL

In Alexander City, the not-for-profit, acute care hospital, Russell Medical, was established a century ago and is now a UAB Health System affiliate with 81 beds and a rehabilitative wing that allows patients easy access to therapy facilities at the in-hospital Total Fitness center. Also on the Russell Medical campus, the UAB Medicine –Russell Medical Cancer Center is staffed with UAB oncologists and offers treatment for more than 100 forms of cancer.

The Russell Medical campus on U.S. Route 280 includes a professional building where many of our physicians’ offices are located. An urgent care facility with extended hours for patients’ convenience and a second physician office facility also are located on the Russell Medical campus.

In addition, Phase 1 of a three-part $25 million aging care project was completed in June 2024 and began accepting patients last summer. The Benjamin Russell Center for Advanced Care is part of The Russell Legacy Project, which will include independent, assisted and dependent care facilities. This healthcare project and the care that it will provide to retirees will elevate the Lake Martin area as a retirement destination. Several of the 26 independent living cottages, known as the Hendrix Cottages, also are move-in ready.

Total Fitness at Russell Medical offers a team of therapists and specialists who combine prevention, wellness and health education with physical fitness and rehabilitation services. This team is individual-focused, as each patient has unique needs and goals, said fitness and wellness coordinator Cara Tidwell.

“Our mission is to provide an appropriate and safe exercise prescription for all of our members with their goals in mind,” Tidwell explained.

The facility includes two fully equipped gyms, regular exercise classes, personal trainers, a SwimEx endless pool and more. From rehabilitation programs to physical therapy and fitness programs, Total Fitness offers total-body solutions for everyone.

The Russell Medical Foundation, established in 1988 to enhance the quality of life for patients, works to upgrade Russell Medical facilities by securing the latest technology, providing healthcare scholarships, attracting the best medical staff and more. The foundation strives to cultivate lasting relationships between the community and the hospital to generate the best outcomes possible.

Russell Medical is located at 3316 U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City. To learn more about the

services Russell Medical Center provides, visit russellcares.com. To make an appointment at Total Fitness, call 256-329-7623 or 256-215-7455.

MAINSTREET FAMILY CARE

Also located on U.S. Highway 280, MainStreet Family Care is a convenient walk-in urgent care and primary care clinic all in one. Open seven days per week, the center keeps later hours for the convenience of patients and their families. MSFC staff has a goal to get patients in and out within an hour. They also offer complimentary water, juice, hot chocolate and coffee, as well as snacks for purchase, to keep you comfortable while you wait.

Walk in for urgent care patient or make an appointment as a primary care patient. The objective of staff is to treat patients with respect and professionalism, treating illnesses or injuries and symptomatic problems quickly and efficiently to help patients feel better as soon as possible.

Appointments are offered seven days per week, including during non-traditional hours. Some of the services regularly provided include annual physicals, high blood pressure or cholesterol management, chronic care for asthma, diabetes, obesity and weight loss and more.

MainStreet Family Care is located at 2508 U.S. Route 280 in Alexander City. The office is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. To learn more about their services or to book an appointment, visit mainstreetfamilycare.com or call 256-414-3013.

LAKE MARTIN COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Part of the Ivy Creek Healthcare System, Lake Martin Community Hospital in Dadeville is fully equipped to care for the medical needs of the community. Patient care does not stop with emergencies and hospital services; primary care services are also available.

The hospital and its practitioners are focused on developing a healthy environment for the community. The doctors and nurses provide support for their patients, as well as education to help them live healthy lifestyles.

Lake Martin Family Medicine, Lake Martin Community Hospital’s primary care branch, is the leading healthcare provider for Dadeville and the surrounding communities. This primary care facility is conveniently located next to the hospital. Lake Martin Family Medicine also has added nutrition counseling to the many services they provide.

More information about Lake Martin

Community Hospital and Lake Martin Family Care can be found at ivycreekhealth.com. The hospital is located at 201 Mariarden Road, and the primary care facility is located at 301 Mariarden Road in Dadeville.

Notable Legends Memorialized

Tallapoosa County has a longstanding rate of success spanning across a multitude of athletics.

Many of those were led by notable coaches in their respective field, and for that schools; their towns around the area have done their part to make sure those contributions on the field or court did not go unnoticed.

Across the county, the name of those impactful figures are plastered on the facilities used by a new generation of athletes. Here are some of those notable figures in the community, and where their names are forever etched into history.

Charles E. Bailey Sr. Sportplex

Before delving into the facilities within the Sportplex, it’s best to start with the complex as a whole. Charles E. Bailey Sr. was not only the mayor of Alexander City, but a well respected coach within the community and in essence the first parks and recreation head.

“He is one of the reasons that our parks and recreation facilities have grown so much,” District 2 council member Bill Young said. “It started out with a small building with a couple baseball fields behind it, and when he became mayor of Alex City. He was the mayor that implemented the Sportplex.”

His contributions in youth sports is ultimately what earned him the privilege of having something he started named after him.

“It’s a very special site to see his name anywhere in our community, much less just

be at the Sportplex, because I know that this man loved Alex City,” Young said. “I know he loved the youth of Alex city, and he was a hard nosed, straightforward man, that he had a dream and he had a goal he was going to attain, and he did. He rose through the ranks of not just coaching, but ran for mayor.”

The Brooks-Jordan Baseball Field

Depending on which entrance you choose to enter the Sportplex, one of the first fields you’ll come across is the Brooks-Jordan baseball field, named after current baseball coach Richy Brooks and tenured official W.A. “Doc” Jordan.

The new brandished name came in 2017. Brooks has spent the past 37 years coaching baseball and joined Benjamin Russell in 1993. Over his time, Brooks has passed the illustrious 700-win threshold in his coaching career all the while juggling the duties of being the school’s athletic director.

Jordan, on the other hand, was veterinarian by trade but where he made his impact was officiating games in Alexander City and Tallapoosa County. For half a century, Jordan was one of the common faces you saw at every sporting event from 1940 through 1990. The city declared “Doc Jordan Day” in July 1967, and BRHS and the city dedicated the baseball field at the Charles E. Bailey Sr. Sportplex to Jordan in May 1987. Jordan was nominated for the Alabama Athletic Directors and Coaches Association Sports Hall of Fame in 1995. Jordan died in 2005 in Alexander City.

The Pam-Robinson Softball Field

One of the pioneers in girls athletics at Benjamin Russell is Pam Robinson. Coaching both softball and volleyball for the Wildcats, Robinson built a lengthy resume in her coaching career.

In volleyball, Robinson accumulated more than 600 wins. Robinson and her Benjamin Russell teams won 13 area championships and two Elite 8 appearances through 1993-2017. And in 2025, Robinson was inducted into the Alabama High School Volleyball Coach Association Hall of Fame.

On the diamond, the accolades continued to pile up. Robinson coached softball for the Wildcats for 19 seasons, where she accumulated another 600 wins. Benjamin Russell made the state elite eight for softball every single season from 2000 through 2006 under Robinson’s leadership, grabbing a couple runner-up finishes in the process.

Now, in retirement, she has not left the realm of athletics in the slightest. She was coaxed back into a coaching role at Benjamin Russell as the head bowling coach, all the while still showing her love for volleyball as an official.

The Martin-Savarese Football Stadium

On the opposite end of the Brooks-Jordan baseball field, lies the home of the Benjamin Russell football team — Martin-Savarese stadium. It was named after two legendary Wildcat coaches: Willie Carl Martin and Steve Savarese.

Among the many hats Savarese held, those in Alexander City remember his contributions from 1985 to 1996 as the Benjamin Russell football coach. Through 12 years, he posted a record of 96-38, winning the region seven times and leading the Wildcats to the playoffs nine times.

And on the other side, Martin is an Alex City native who went to Laurel High School. He was brought onto the Wildcat coaching staff by Savarese and led the team to its only state championship during the playoff era in program history in 2001. From 2001-2006, Martin held the mantle of the Wildcats football team — going 51-24, capturing two area titles and posting nine-plus wins in three seasons.

Following their tenure at Benjamin Russell, Savarese ultimately became the AHSAA’s executive director from 2007 to 2015. He was inducted into the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame in 2010 and the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. Now, in 2026, he’s entering another illustrious group with being inducted into the NFHS National High School Hall of Fame.

Martin went on to join the University of Alabama football coaching staff under Nick Saban as the director of player development (academics, strength and conditioning) in 2007. He was inducted into the Northeastern State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2007 as well.

Paul Carney Court

From left to right: Alexander City Schools superintendent, Dr. Jose Reyes, former BRHS coach Paul Carney, and former BRHS football coach Steve Savarese, pose in front of the insignia on the court

When it was announced the new Benjamin Russell High School campus was nearing the final stages of construction, Alexander City Schools superintendent Jose Reyes knew one thing — as they move to the future, they need to remember the past. Among the many new amenities at the new high school, one is the Paul Carney Court in the new gymnasium.

Carney served as the Benjamin Russell and Laurel High School basketball coach for 23 years, starting in 1968 following his graduation from Tuskegee University. During his time at the helm, he accrued over 200 career wins, six area championships and an Elite 8 berth in 1982. Not only was he serving as head coach for the basketball team, but also as the wide receivers coach for the football team.

Benjamin Russell held its count dedication ceremony in January with Carney in attendance.

Lee-Buzbee Wrestling Room

It says something about a program when you have a Hall of Fame wrestling coach, Benjamin Russell one-ups everyone with two in the school’s tenured history on the mat. Similar to Carney, Reyes knew when it came to the high school’s new wrestling room he had to honor the contributions of Charles Lee and Dwight Buzbee.

Lee, better known as the “Father of Alabama High School Wrestling,” was the first wrestling coach at Benjamin Russell, initiating the program in 1956. And it was from that point on where he truly helped place Alexander City on the map. Lee produced more than 100 individual state champions, along with 11 straight team wrestling championships from 1959-1970 and a 196-5 dual meet record.

Buzbee donned the maroon and white from 19681971, as a part of those state championship winning teams. And following Lee’s departure to become principal at Lineville High School, it was Buzbee’s time to take the reins.

Success continued under Buzbee, winning three

straight state championships through 1981 to 1983. He coached seven state champions and 25 first-place finishers during his seven years as the wrestling coach. However, even when he left the coaching ranks, Buzbee was still involved with the sport as an official.

Weldon-Mitchell Caldwell Gymnasium

In February 2024, Dadeville unveiled its new digs for the foreseeable future with renovation made to the now Weldon-Mitchell Caldwell Gymnasium located on the Dadeville High School campus.

Originally just the Weldon Gynamasium in 1961, named after long-standing Tallapoosa County superintendent Woodrow Weldon. He was joined by Mitchell Caldwell in 2024, who checked almost every possible box he could at Dadeville.

A prominent basketball player, who later went on to play basketball at Jacksonville State, Caldwell returned to Dadeville. He crossed off basketball coach, teach, assistant principal, principal all the way up to assistant superintendent.

Before renovations, the gym stood the test of time for over 60 years, originally debuting in 1961 and named after the aforementioned Weldon in 1961. And at the ribbon-

cutting ceremony, they provided the original guest sign-in form from the court dedication ceremony in the 60s. Through that timeframe, the Dadeville boys basketball team won 15 area championships and two Final Four appearances from 1961 to 2024. All the while, the girls’ basketball team racked up 18 area championships, four Elite 8 appearances and another seven Final Four appearances. The Tigers did it all while withstanding the test of time and success in their back pocket — it was time for the Tigers’ gymnasium to reflect it.

Nix-Webster-O’Neal Football Stadium

The storied football history at Reeltown High School is truly shown when you look at the namesake of the stadium — featuring three names.

The three names consist of principal Berlie Ethridge “B.E.” Nix along with former coaches Duane Webster and Jackie O’Neal.

Nix was a longstanding principal at Reeltown through the 1980s. He was credited for a positive impact on Reeltown High School that prompted a dramatic change for the school, according to the team’s website.

Webster, a 1994 AHSAA Hall of Famer, graduated from Tallassee High School before pursuing an education at Auburn University. He began his coaching career at Tallassee, as an assistant coach before making his debut with the Rebels in 1956. Through 30 years as head coach, including a four stint at Tallassee, he posted a 218-93-9 overall record — including the school’s first state championship in 1987.

O’Neal was soon there after, taking over 1988 and played under Webster in his high school career. He spent the next 28 years as the Reeltown football coach, coaching his son Lawrence “L.A.” O’Neal, who now coaches the Park Crossing football team and his successor Matt Johnson. Through his career, Jackie O’Neal posted a 241110 overall record, capturing 14 region titles and two state championships in 2001 and 2009.

Church Directory

A.M.E.

Saint James A.M.E. Church 376 Coosa Co Rd 7, Goodwater, AL 256-743-1090

St. John A.M.E.

Off U.S. 280 on State Route 9, Socopatoy 256-215-3532

Assemblies of God

Cedar Street Church of God 711 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Alex City, AL 256-329-5115

Faith Assembly of God 590 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Dadeville, AL 256-825-7741

River of Life Worship Center 1715 Tallapoosa St, Alex City, AL 256-392-4950

Independent Baptist

Liberty Baptist

1365 Hillabee St, Alex City 256-329-8830

New Life Baptist

759 Coosa County Rd 14, Equality 256-329-2635

Victory Baptist

210 South Rd, Alex City 256-234-2089

West End Baptist

3040 Old Dark Rd, Alex City 256-234-2130

Baptist – Missionary

Bethlehem Baptist 924 County Rd, 79, Daviston 256-409-2230

Cross Key Baptist Hackneyville Rd, Alex City 256-839-0041

Darian Missionary Baptist Church 1825 Pearson Chapel Rd, Alex City 256-329-3865

Early Rose Baptist 201 Lonesome Rd, Alex City 256-234-4706

Flint Hill Baptist 4135 Dadeville Rd, Alex City 256-234-0015

Friendship Baptist 6727 Highway 63 S, Alex City 256-329-5243

Hollins Baptist Church 384 Chapman Rd, Goodwater 256-404-9321

Jackson’s Gap Baptist Church 23 East Church St, Jacksons Gap 256-825-6814

Liberty Church 1034 Liberty Church Rd, Alex City 256-329-9441

Macedonia Baptist 58 Macedonia Circle, Goodwater 256-839-5793

Marietta Baptist 1525 Coosa County Rd 81, Goodwater 256-839-5847

Miracle Missionary Baptist 1687 I St 256-215-9788

Mt. Calvary Baptist 329 King St, Alex City, 256-234-5631

Mt. Olive Baptist 5755 Coosa County Rd 66, Goodwater 256-839-1000

Mt. Sinai Baptist 7607 AL-259, Alex City 256-329-2337

Mt. Zion Baptist New Site 14819 Highway 22 E, Daviston 256-329-0483

Mt. Zion Baptist 6577 Hwy 63 S., Alex City 256-234-7748

Mt. Zion West Baptist Church 962 Peppers Rd, Alex City 256-215-5554

New Elam Missionary Baptist 2964 County Rd, Alex City 256-329-1330

Bethel Baptist Church

Smith Mountain Rd, Dadeville 256-825-5070

Peace & Goodwill Baptist 188 Coosa Co Rd 30, Rockford 256-377-4634

Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church 281 Pine Grove Loop, Dadeville 256-825-4963

Pleasant Valley Missionary Baptist 835 Valley Rd, Camp Hill 334-257-4442

Ridge Grove Missionary Baptist 1380 Old Kellyton Rd, Alex City 256-234-6972

Rocky Mount Baptist Church Hillabee Rd, Alex City 256-329-2327

Seleeta Baptist Church 304 Booker St, Alex City 256-329-2685

Shady Grove Baptist Church 333 Shady Grove Dr., Jacksons Gap 256-825-2008

The Great Bethel Missionary 692 Jefferson St, Alex City 256-234-5513

Unity Missionary Baptist Church 2557 Robinson Rd, Alex City 256-329-3449

Zion Hill Missionary Baptist 456 S. BRdnax St, Dadeville 256-825-1755

Baptist – Southern Bay Pine Baptist 1480 Bay Pine Rd, Jackson’s Gap 256-825-4433

Bethany Baptist Church 279 Bethany Rd, Alex City 256-794-5199

Bethel Baptist 2367 Youngs Ferry Rd, Jacksons Gap 256-749-0995

Beulah Baptist 5891 Lovelady Rd, Dadeville 256-825-6515

Calvary Baptist Church 819 Main St, Jacksons Gap 256-825-5989

Calvary Heights Baptist Church 474 7th Way, Alex City 256-234-7224

Camp Hill Baptist 41 Heard St, Camp Hill 256-896-2811

Comer Memorial 341 E. Church St, Alex City 256-234-2236

Daviston Baptist 211 Church St, Daviston Eagle Creek Baptist 7734 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Dadeville 256-825-6048

Fellowship Baptist 1731 Buttston Rd, Dadeville 256-825-8176

Fellowship Primitive Baptist Church Claybrook Drive, Alex City 256-839-5339

First Baptist Court Square, Alex City 256-234-6351

First Baptist 178 S Tallassee St, Dadeville 256-825-6232

Good News Baptist Church 10493 U.S. Route 280, Jackson’s Gap 256-825-2555

Hackneyville Baptist 9149 Highway 63 N, Alex City 256-234-2184

Hillabee Baptist 1781 Hialeah Cir, Alex City 256-234-6798

Horseshoe Bend Baptist 17363 Highway 280, Dadeville 256-537-5622

Jackson’s Gap Baptist 23 E Church St, Jackson’s Gap 256-825-6814

Kellyton Baptist 334 Church St, Kellyton 256-329-1512

Kendrick Baptist Church 5152 AL-9, Equality

Lake Martin Baptist 9823 County Rd 34, Dadeville 256-825-7434

Lake Pointe Baptist 8352 State Route 50 West, Dadeville 256-373-3293

Lebanon Baptist 8413 Dudleyville Rd, Dadeville 256-825-4803

Mountain Springs Baptist 15191 County Rd 62, Wadley 256-395-4214

Mt. Carmel Baptist 3610 Dudleyville Rd, Dadeville 256-825-9337

Mt. Zion Baptist 6577 Highway 63 South, Alex City 256-234-7748

New Beginning Baptist 1076 Coley Creek Rd, Alex City 256-234-4399

New Concord Baptist 396 Concord Rd, Dadeville 256-825-5390

New Elkahatchee Baptist 3380 Elkahatchee Rd, Alex City 256-329-9942

New Hope Baptist Church 571 Peppers Rd, Alex City 256-234-2029

New Pine Grove Baptist 2768 Whaley Ferry Rd, Alex City

New Providence Baptist 5904 Pearson Chapel Rd, Alex City 256-839-6042

New Rocky Mount Baptist 670 Peckerwood Rd, Jackson’s Gap 256-794-3846

New Salem Baptist 13930 Highway 22 E, New Site 256-234-2932

Old Providence Baptist 2767 Old Providence Rd, Goodwater 256-329-5129

Old Union Baptist 1106 Davis Circle, Jackson’s Gap 256-884-7968

Orr Street Baptist 939 O St, Alex City 256-234-3171

Perryville Baptist 11171 Highway 22 E, New Site 256-234-3588

Pine Grove Baptist 1878 County Rd 34, Camp Hill 256-329-8313

Ray Baptist County Rd 32, Alex City, 256-234-7609

River Rd Baptist 107 Dean Rd, Alex City, 256-234-6971

Rocky Creek Baptist 7779 Samford Rd, Alex City 256-329-9831

Rocky Mount Baptist State Route 22 E., Alex City, 256-329-2327

Rock Springs Baptist 3060 Rock Springs Rd, Alex City 256-825-4097

Russell Farm Baptist 11745 Highway 63 S, Alex City 256-215-8546

Sandy Creek Baptist 621 Sandy Creek Rd, Camp Hill 256-896-2617

Stone Ridge Baptist 2324 6th St Ext, Alex City 256-234-2408

Sunny Level Baptist Church Sunny Acres Subdivision Sewell St

Town Creek Baptist 12 Town Creek Rd, Alex City

Wayside Baptist 21 Wayside Cr, Alex City 256-234-5564

Zion Hill Baptist 1952 County Rd 79, Daviston 256-329-1770

Catholic St. John the Apostle 454 N. Central Ave, Alex City 256-234-3631

Church of Christ

Alex City Church of Christ 945 Tallapoosa St, Alex City 256-234-6494

Dadeville Church of Christ

1404 East LaFayette St, Dadeville

Meadows St Church of Christ 446 Meadows St, Alex City 256-329-8701

Pleasant Grove Church of Christ 1819 Bay Pine Rd, Jackson’s Gap

Church of God

House of Prayer A.C.O.P. North Central Ave, Alex City

Alex City No. 2 A.C.O.P. Church of God Local St, Alex City

Bread of Life A.C.O.P. Church of God U.S. Route 280, Kellyton

Cedar Street Church of God 711 Martin Luther King Blvd, Alex City 256-329-5115

Dadeville Church of God 425 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Dadeville 256-825-8820

Marshall Street Church of God 428 Marshall St, Alex City 256-234-3180

New Faith Tabernacle A.C.O.P. 1238 J St, Alex City

New Harvest Ministries Church of God U.S. 280 & County Rd 28 256-329-2331

Pentecostal Church of God

163 Franklin St, Alex City 256-215-4055

The Church of God 405 13th Ave N., Alex City 205-837-0314

Washington Street A.C.O.P. Church of God, Washington St Church of God of Prophecy Church of God of Prophecy 303 Poplar Rd, Alex City, 256-234-6941

Church of Jesus Christ

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 1515 Worthy Rd, Alex City

Church of the Nazarene Dadeville Church of the Nazarene U.S. Route 280 & State Route 49 256-825-8191

Episcopal Saint James Episcopal Church 121 S. Central Ave, Alex City 256-234-4752

Holiness

Alex City Emmanuel Holiness Hillabee St, Alex City

House of Restoration Holiness 519 Slaughter Ave, Camp Hill, 256-896-2165

Full Gospel Fellowship Revival Center Mission 316 6th Ave, Alex City 256-329-1510

Kellyton Revival Center 2013 Coosa County Rd 87, Kellyton

Liberty Life Christian Center 243 S St, Alex City

Passion Church 3340 State Route 63 N., Alex City 256-409-9590

The Family Worship Center 365 Scott Rd, Alex City

Methodist – United Duncan Memorial U.M. 3997 Hillabee Rd, Alex City 256-234-6708

First United Methodist

3266 U.S. Route 280, Alex City 256-234-2455

First United Methodist 140 Lafayette St, Dadeville 256-825-4404

Haven United Methodist 354 Christian St, Alex City 256-329-8394

Liberty United Methodist Liberty Rd, Hackneyville

Mt. Godfrey Church 13490 Hamlet Mill Rd, Daviston

New Site Harmony Church 108 Church Rd, New Site 256-234-7834

Pearson Chapel U.M. 3122 Pearson Chapel Rd, Alex City 334-734-0509

Red Ridge United Methodist 8091 County Rd 34, Dadeville 256-825-9820

Sunnylevel United Methodist 3202 State Route 63N, Alex City 256-234-6877

Union United Methodist 4191 AL-50, Dadeville 256-825-2241

Methodist – Independent

Alex City Methodist 11th Ave N., Alex City 256-329-1284

Bradford Methodist Church 18764 AL-9, Goodwater

Cornerstone First Global Methodist 310 Green St, Alex City 256-801-1746

Daviston Independent Methodist 22671 AL-22, Daviston

Flint Hill Church 2858 Flint Hill Rd, Alex City 256-234-5047

Hillabee Campground Methodist 120 CC Rd, Alex City

Pentecostal

Pentecostals of Dadeville 800 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Dadeville 256-596-3411

Presbyterian First Presbyterian 371 Jefferson St, Alex City 256-329-0524

First Presbyterian 171 Okefuske St, Dadeville 256-825-4081

United Pentecostal

Alex City Apostolic 3708 Robinson Rd, Alex City 256-329-1573

Independent Faith Temple Franklin St, Alex City, 256-234-6421

Family Worship Center 1676 Sewell St 256-839-6895

GAP Fellowship Ministries 721 Robinson Court, Alex City 256-215-3427

God’s House Church 9234 Hwy 63N, Alex City

Jehovah-Jireh Ministries

252 Tallapoosa St, Alex City 256-215-4211

New Generation 886 Terrance Dr., Alex City 256-329-0300

New Bethel Fellowship Church 5474 Rock Springs Rd, Jackson’s Gap 256-825-3367

Vertical Point Church 860 Airport Dr. Alex City AL 256-392-5013

Hook, Line & Lake Martin

STORY BY SAMUEL HIGGS

“Lake Martin is a great playing field for competitive fishing. With nearly 800 miles of shoreline, it's a huge lake in bass fishing terms; it can handle a large number of boats.”

Greg Vinson, Professional Angler

If there is anything you need to know about Greg Vinson, it’s that he knows his stuff when it comes to fishing.

A professional angler, Vinson has competed on the Bassmaster Elite Series and the Fishing League Worldwide Tour for more than 10 years. Now, competing in the Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour. He has posted 10 career top-10 finishes, taking the top spot on the Phoenix Bass Fishing League tournament held on Lake Martin. Vinson has been traveling around the country, dipping his toes and lures into some of the best fisheries he can find. Although now residing in Wetumpka near Lake Jordan, there is still a body of water he calls home — Lake Martin.

“I still call it home,” Vinson said. “I grew up on the lake, as a young kid, and my first experiences fishing were a couple of trips my dad took me out. He was an avid angler, and still is, but I had a lot of time being fortunate enough to grow up on the lake. We spent a lot of time, especially in the summers (when) we were out of school, fishing from the bank, and catching bluegill, or even what we call spot tail minnows. We would catch anything we could catch: catfish, crappie, bass, and even occasionally a white bass or striper. So just from my dock on Lake Martin, over the years, growing up, I caught each of those species of fish.”

And it’s just that variety of species out on the lake that is appealing to Vinson. He categorized Lake Martin as a great place for novice and experienced anglers alike. Regardless of how much time is spent on the lake or experience level, more often than not, you will be walking away with a catch in some fashion.

“It’s really good for younger anglers, novice anglers, people just looking to get into fishing,” Vinson said. “Because there is such a huge number of fish in the lake. You could certainly catch a trophy at Lake Martin, the biggest one I’ve ever caught in my life was almost 9 pounds, which is a giant anywhere in the country. But day in and day out, it’s a numbers lake (is what) we call it in the fishing world. Where you come to get more bites, get more action, catch more fish, but they’re not going to be quite as big on average.”

Lake Martin is one of those places where locals, and even those in neighboring counties, know about, especially on the fishing side. But now it’s taking things to the larger stage, gaining nationwide recognition.

In February, the Bassmaster Elite Series made its triumphant return to Lake Martin for the first time since 2018, with Fisher Anaya snatching the top spot after a stellar Day 3 and Day 4.

In Vinson’s eyes, especially when looking at what all needs to go into a fishing tournament, especially on the scale of Bassmaster, Lake Martin is the perfect spot for it.

“Lake Martin is a great playing field for competitive fishing,” Vinson said. “With nearly 800 miles of shoreline, it’s a huge lake in bass fishing terms; it can handle a large number of boats. The community can handle a large number of fishermen. And that, that’s a great aspect as well. The facilities are top-notch for competitive angling. And I think those are the things that attract leagues like Bassmaster to come to a fishery that has great fishing.

“One of the advantages is most anglers in the field

are going to catch fish, and even some of the worldclass fisheries around the country, you can’t always say that. They might have bigger fish, but Lake Martin is a good place to have a competition, because the race is going to be tight to the end, and that makes it exciting. It makes it exciting for the anglers. They’re never out of it, so to speak.”

For first-time anglers or even those on their vacation on Lake Martin, Vinson has his fair share of advice when it comes to getting out on the lake. But above all else, rest assured, regardless of your experience on the lake, you should be able to come away with a bite.

“It’s a great place to visit and fish really any time of year, because the lake is full of fish and up and down,” Vinson said. “So wherever you end up deciding to spend your time on the lake, you’re going to be around bass and other species of fish to catch. One piece of advice that I would recommend is just to keep it simple. Sometimes, less is more with the bass on Lake Martin, if you’re just looking to catch fish. So, smaller worms, smaller plastic worms, are a staple. One of our favorites is called a shaky head. It’s just a little jig head and hook that you rig the worm on, and it works just about any time of year on Lake Martin.”

From livestock to life lessons

Ag Center's impact extends beyond the arena

STORY BY SAMUEL HIGGS

PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS & LIZI ARBOGAST

From ages 80 to 8 — the possibilities are endless at the Tallapoosa County Agribusiness Center off of Highway 280 in Jacksons Gap, or as it’s been better referred to as the “great, big, beautiful arena.”

After more than five years of careful consideration, the Tallapoosa County Commission broke ground on the project in August 2025.

“(The commission) met with a group five years ago and kind of set this plan in motion,” District 3 commissioner John McKelvey said in a previous story. “It’ll be five years to the day that we met that the first event will be out here.”

After months of construction, the ag center finally opened its doors to the county in April of this year. And although just a few months into operations, Tallapoosa County Agribusiness Center director Robert Reams is already seeing the benefits.

“It’s been amazing to me,” Reams said of the reception of the ag center. “I’ve said to several people, because our family is involved in the livestock showings. So we know what those facilities can do, but I think the people now are realizing that this area needed

this. We’re very thankful for the vision that the commissioners had in this project for allowing this project to even happen.”

The addition of the ag center goes much further than the rodeos that take place, which are still worth the trip. It provides opportunities for students in the Tallapoosa area to get involved, letting them get real-life work experience while also seeing elements of agriculture. It is something similar to the experiences his own daughter has made in her own regard.

“Personally, I have a daughter (Allie) that actually rides for Auburn University,” Reams shared. “I have watched her and countless other people for years learn how to work. I’ve seen them learn how to take care of an animal. I’ve seen them learn responsibilities and to (do) something bigger than themselves, shall we say. We know where these children are at; we teach it. We’re teaching them life lessons, how to handle things, take care of things; we’re teaching those responsibilities for young people that go way, way beyond just what’s in the classroom. It’s a practical life experience.”

But even that is not limited to age, according to Reams. He has seen those use those valuable skills they learned while they were younger and translate them to events currently being held at the ag center.

“We had people at a roping event that we had that were well into their 60s that were doing roping, still doing that,” Reams said.

“We have young children that are involved in doing things of that nature. We also have ladies that are in their 80s, and they’re still showing horses. There’s really no age limit on this.”

All of that is valuable because of the impact agriculture has on our everyday lives. Reams noted plenty of examples of why the ag center is better at preparing people for their future endeavors.

“We’re never going to get away from agriculture and what we do,” Reams said.

“You’ve got to have agriculture involved in so many things, the food that you eat, your house that you live in. You’ve got lumber that is involved in the agriculture business. I mean, you go to a Chick-fil-A and order a chicken sandwich. Well, you had to have a chicken farm in order to raise that chicken. So there are so many avenues, and we are a place for children to learn.”

In addition to serving its educational purpose, it also adds some entertainment value to coincide. Events like concerts, rodeos, even barbecues are all scheduled to take place in the ag center — taking advantage of the covered pavilion to host events regardless of the weather.

John McKelvey had a huge hand in the birth of the Tallapoosa County Agribusiness Center

Reams also noted the plans for expansion and possibly other additions made to the complex in the future.

“The actual physical structure we just completed phase one,” Reams said. “There’ll be multiple phases as we’re going down the road. One of the goals is to help with education, have a facility, and we’ve looked at some other places; they have an education room. Maybe that’s in the plan… (Just) give the community something to do, we often hear there’s not anything for these people to do around here, so we’re giving them a place to go to, see and experience things.”

The calendar of events for the ag center does not slow down much either. Already scheduled for July are Allen Roping Productions Team Roping, followed by the Alabama Quarter Horse Youth Association - Ranch Riding Clinic. The ag center also has tentative dates for other events to close out the calendar, with some others in the works, according to Reams. But already, and so early on, the ag center is making its mark on the Tallapoosa County area.

“The Tallapoosa County Commission is very proud to have this type of center located in the center of Tallapoosa County with access to a major highway corridor,” McKelvey said. “We look forward to hosting local events and seeing the youth of this county grow from the experiences they have with the opportunity to learn at this new center.”

BEHIND EVERY TEAM

Meet the people who keep Tallapoosa County athletics moving forward

Sports are a never-ending cycle of repetition; when one season is over, the next one begins. There is so much going on on a consistent basis, there needs to be someone in charge of running it all.

That’s where athletic directors step into the equation for the local high schools in Tallapoosa County. They do the behind the scenes stuff most do not consider; the budgets, the scheduling, the facilities — and for all the coaches in Tallapoosa County, they coach their own individual sport. Here are some of the names to get familiar in the county and how they play their part in athletics.

Jeremy Phillips, Alexander City Parks and Rec

For the last seven years, Jeremy Phillips made his name in New Site at Horseshoe Bend as the football coach — making the playoffs in 2024.

However, in 2026, Phillips is taking on a new role in a new place with the Alexander Parks and Recreation Department, serving as the director. It’ll be a change of pace from roaming the sidelines on Friday, but it’s a transition Phillips noted he’s comfortable with making after the experiences he’s gained at Horseshoe Bend.

“I think that a lot of the being athletic director of a school, you’re over a lot of programs, you’re over a lot of personnel, and, of course, a lot of kids,” Phillips said. “And really trying to find money, trying to make sure that the athletes have the best possible experience they can have, starting new programs, managing a budget, all of those things. I think it definitely correlates to being a parks and rec director. Now it’s going to be a broader scope of that.”

Phillips is in his first year as the director, filling in from former director Kasey Kaschak, who held the title for three years.

Richy Brooks, Benjamin Russell High School

Through 37 years at the helm of the Benjamin Russell

baseball team, Richy Brooks is regarded as one of the most notorious names in the state of Alabama. Following the retirement of former athletic director Pam Robinson in the late 2010s, Brooks was next in line for the position.

Brooks began his coaching career back in 1990 at Tarrant, before moving to Alexander City in 1993. In addition to his obligations with the baseball team, he served as the Wildcats’ defensive coordinator in football, walking away with a state title in 2001. However, where Brooks remains the strongest is on the diamond. In March of 2023, Brooks jumped up to fifth in Alabama High School baseball history, notching his 700th career win in his career. As of 2025, Brooks ranks tenth all-time in AHSAA history with 741 wins while posting a win percentage of 61.5% through his career.

In 2026, the Wildcats finished with a 24-7 record — not indicated yet in the AHSAA record books — snatching the Class 6A Area 5 title with an undefeated record. And they reached the playoffs for another year.

Brooks’ contribution to Benjamin Russell has not gone unnoticed, either. In 2017, the school honored him by renaming the baseball field in conjunction with W.A. “Doc” Jordan, currently named Brooks-Jordan Field.

Matt Johnson, Reeltown High School

Matt Johnson is one of the coaches that is nearing the verge of his namesake being forever memorialized at Reeltown High School, and he’d be joining some elite company in the process.

Johnson has not only served as the football coach for

the Rebels for the last 10 years, but has served as the school’s athletic director during the same period as well.

Of course, football has been one of the calling cards for the community, making it to three state championship games (2019, 2023, 2024) and winning in impressive fashion in 2024 over Tuscaloosa Academy.

Through 10 years as the football coach, Johnson holds a 92-33 overall record along with his state title victory. Johnson had his hands in two other state titles for the Rebels, winning one as a player in 2001 and as an assistant coach in 2009 under legendary coach Jackie O’Neal.

However, the growth in the athletic department is also reflected. In 2017, Johnson was one of the main proprietors in bringing volleyball back to Reeltown. And now, nearly a decade after the fact, the Rebels finished with the Class 2A Area 8 title and earned their first win at the AHSAA Regional Tournament.

Chad McKelvey, Dadeville High School

Dadeville’s football and athletic director Chad McKelvey might actually bleed gold and black. In previous stints as the principal at Edward Bell and Dadeville Elementary, McKelvey has had his fair share of experiences taking things to the next level.

And now he’s doing so with Dadeville athletics.

Over the years, Dadeville has not only brandished a new gymnasium to serve as the home-court for the Dadeville volleyball and basketball teams but also revived a once lost wrestling program — all coming under McKelvey’s tutelage. The volleyball team, once winless in 2023, has turned the corner and is knocking on the door of the AHSAA Regional Tournament. The wrestling team is growing in popularity, with the girls taking the second-ever South Sectional championship

and sending seven wrestlers to the state meet.

All the while, McKelvey has kept the football team’s playoff streak alive and now sits for six straight years. McKelvey’s squads have advanced to the postseason during both years with him at the helm.

Shenan Motley, Horseshoe Bend School

Filling in for the aforementioned Phillips at Horseshoe Bend is none other than the new athletic director and football coach, Shenan Motley.

Motley has been a head football coach in Alabama for the last nine years, and his most notable stint was at Wadley. He finished with a 51-22 coaching record, including a state championship win over Maplesville in 2024 and another state title appearance in 2021. Through six seasons with the Bulldogs, Motley made the playoffs in each year — he holds an 11-5 record in the postseason.

In 2025, Motley was named the head coach of Beauregard, where he finished with a 3-8 record. The Hornets went 3-3 in Class 5A Area 4, which was enough for the No. 4 seed going into the playoffs.

The athletic director role is not something new to Motley, having served in the same position while at Wadley, and also served as a physical education teacher. He walked into a stellar situation with Horseshoe Bend volleyball, girls basketball, softball and baseball all making it to the playoffs in the 2025-26 sports calendar.

Already Feeling at Home

Students adjust quickly to new high school campus

STORY BY GWEN BISHOP

PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS & GWEN BISHOP

Georgia Dennis

While there were plenty of naysayers in the community about Benjamin Russell High School moving into its new building in the middle of the school year, students have taken to the move and have already adjusted.

Incoming senior Palyn Joiner had only positive comments about the new school.

“I think it’s great,” Joiner said. “I’m glad that we ended up moving before we graduated. I have one more year, but I’m glad that we went ahead and moved on in and everything.”

Joiner was lucky to be in the first class to experience prom on site.

“We were able to have prom in the courtyard,” she said. “That was really cool.”

Presley Self, also an incoming senior, found the size of the school overwhelming at first. Self helped with the school’s tours during open house.

“I was a little bit lost,” she said. “We were shown the building 30 minutes before we were supposed to help tour people, and it just seemed overwhelming.”

After a few rounds, Self noticed the layout of the new high school made sense.

“It’s very organized,” she said. “It’s easy for us to find our way around now. It kind of makes sense.”

Another upcoming senior, Georgia Dennis, was overwhelmed at first.

“My first impressions were a little overwhelming, because everything just kind of looked the same,” Dennis said. “I got lost a lot. But then after like two or three days I got asked to do some tours and stuff. I got used to it.”

She also said the athletic areas, which include the gyms, the locker rooms and dance rooms, are a bit foreign to her.

“Downstairs is also very overwhelming, because everything also looks the same down there,” Dennis said.

Avery Sanders moved to the new school during her freshman year. Not only did she have to get used to being in high school, but right in the middle of that, she had to learn a second new school.

“I definitely got lost a few times, but I’m going strong now,” Sanders said.

While most students said it took a few days to navigate the new school, there are so many amenities it was worth it.

“I think it’s cool that we all get to experience it and see the way that it changed and everything,” Joiner said. “There’s a dance and cheer room. That was really cool to see, and the gym and everything — it’s all really nice.

Self said the new media room is one of her favorite rooms.

“We have actual places to study,” Self said. “It’s nicer for us.”

The media room is designed to look like a gathering place with plenty of seating and low book shelves. Because the school was designed to be all-inclusive with

Heard

“I think that allowing the school to be a little lived in gives a little experience for the teachers to know what works for the new school. “It’s really nice over here. I’m actually glad that I got to experience this before I left to see what the future holds for BR.”

Caitlynn Heard, 2026 Graduate

safety as one of the top priorities, a courtyard was built right in the center, which also happens to be something Dennis likes.

“(My favorite thing about the new school would be) probably the courtyard, because last year we didn’t really have anywhere to go after or between our classes,” she said. “I have a class every other day, so I like to sit out there and do schoolwork, or just go out there and just see other people.”

Although Kaniya Welcher isn’t an athlete, she is impressed with the sports facilities.

“The gym is really nice,” she said. “They really invested in the extracurriculars.”

Welcher was a member of JROTC and is pleased with the new facilities.

“We got a shooting range and a dressing room,” she said.

Caitlynn Heard, a 2026 graduate, said the move was initially disruptive at first.

“It’s supposed to be a celebratory year,” she said.

After a month or so in the new building, Heard said she was glad they moved when they did.

“It was a great opportunity to get to experience before we left,” she said.”I know a couple of years ago, a lot of classes promised that they (would) get to see the new school and we finally got that opportunity.”

Heard also said the half year spent in the new building would help the teachers for the 2026-2027 school year.

“I think that allowing the school to be a little lived in gives a little experience for the teachers to know what works for the new school,” she said. “It’s really nice over here. I’m actually glad that I got to experience this before I left to see what the future holds for BR.”

Joiner also said she liked the new type of desks in the classroom and the lighter colors of the walls.

“It cheers you up,” she said.

CENTRAL ALABAMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Central to your success. This a great place to kick off a college education or learn a trade. The accredited school enrolls over 1,500 students, offering support for transfer-bound, two-year degree and certification-seeking paths.

CACC offers counseling and transfer assistance for students planning to continue to a four-year institution. Students can earn an associate degree in applied science or choose from workforce programs in fields including nursing, welding, auto manufacturing, industrial electronics, computer information systems, office administration, truck driving, machine shop, cosmetology and marine technology, many of which offer industry certifications. CACC also boasts nationally recognized athletics, with its tennis program nationally ranked and its golf and baseball teams regularly competing at the national level.

To explore the options, visit cacc.edu.

Alexander City Schools

For information, including attendance zones and enrollment requirements, contact the Alexander City Board of Education at 256-234-8600. (Take-in and dismissal times are subject to change, for updates visit alexcityschools.net.)

Jim Pearson (K-2nd) 1240 Scott Rd, Alexander City 256-234-8625

Principal: Stephanie Brooks jpes.alexcityschools.net

Nathaniel H. Stephens

Intermediate School (3rd-5th)

359 State St, Alexander City 256-234-8631

Principal: Lekishia Richardson

William L. Radney

Junior High School (6th-8th)

225 Heard Blvd, Alexander City 256-234-8636

Principal: Dr. Johanna Morgan

EDUCATION IN ALEXANDER CITY

Benjamin Russell High School (9th-12th)

747 Barbara H. Young Dr, Alexander City 256-234-8611

Principal: Shannon Benefield brhs.alexcityschools.net

ALEXANDER CITY BOARD OF EDUCATION 256-234-8600

375 Lee St, Alexander City, AL

Board Members

➤ Dr. Jose Reyes, Superintendent jose.reyes@acsk12.net

➤ Adam Wade, President adam.wade@acsk12.net

➤ Dr. Chante Ruffin, Vice President chante.ruffin@acsk12.net

➤ Kimberly Carter kimberly.carter@acsk12.net

➤ Scott Hardy scott.hardy@acsk12.net

➤ Ellen Martin emartin@acsk12.net

LOCAL DAYCARES & PRESCHOOLS

Alexander City

Cooper Head Start

625 Martin Luther King Blvd, Alexander City 256-234-6964

First Baptist

Early Learning Center

64 Court Square, Alexander City 256-392-4438

Harbor Learning Academy LLC

461 Fifth Way, Alexander City 256-234-4739

Happy World Child Care Center

368 F Street, Alexander City 256-329-8029

Jacob’s Ladder

Creative Learning Center

310 Green St, Alexander City 256-234-5783

Jean Dean Daycare

303 Mary St, Alexander City 256-234-5175

Mother Goose Child Development 645 Scott Rd, Alexander City 256-234-3780

Next Generation Learning Center 870 Terrace Dr., Alexander City 256-329-0304

Robinson Head Start Center

277 Tallapoosa St, Alexander City 256-234-7583

Stepping Stones Learning Center 111 Poplar Rd, Alexander City 256-392-5001

Woody Woodpecker Day Care

151 Jefferson St, Alexander City 256-234-6287

Dadeville

Head Start 170 S Broadnax St, Dadeville 256-825-4204

Horseshoe Bend Baptist Church Daycare 17363 US-280, Dadeville 256-825-7544

Little Lambs & Ivy Day School 580 E. South St, Dadeville 256-825-9415

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Princeton High School International 1410 Hillabee St, P.O. Box 1334, Alexander City 256-215-4211

jjbi.education/princeton-highschool-international

Veritas Lake Martin Christian School

64 Court Square, Alexander City 256-537-5004 veritaslakemartin.com

HOMESCHOOL COVER SCHOOL

Lake Martin Christian Academy 64 Court Square, Alexander City 256-794-4313

lmcalions.com

A premier gentleman’s farm featuring 50% open pasture and 50% mature timber in a prime location with gorgeous views. Includes a newly renovated 3 bedroom, 1 bath home that is move-in ready. Less than 1 hour from Lake Martin and Birmingham.

CREATING CAREER CONNECTIONS

Collaboration between CACC, the Chamber and local schools is creating pathways from education to high-demand careers

STORY & PHOTOS BY GWEN BISHOP

It’s not often a two-year college has placed itself centrally to push education forward in primary schools.

But Central Alabama Community College in Alexander City does just that.

While the school offers standard two-year associate degrees and technical certificates, CACC president Jeff Lynn has positioned the school to be on the forefront of education and workforce readiness in the Lake Martin area.

“If you look at the history of the two-year colleges, a lot of them weren’t really focusing on workforce or career readiness or career technical education,” Lynn said. “I meet with our companies regularly — find out what their needs are. Find out what type of programs they need. Have them vet the programs. Have them review the curriculum. Have them review our equipment that we’re training the students on and meet with the instructors.”

Not only does CACC provide career tech and workforce readiness training on campus, Lynn also works with local school systems to provide the same training to high school students.

Although not a workforce program, a partnership with Alexander City Schools and Benjamin Russell High School is allowing seniors to actually graduate with their associates degree before they receive their high school diploma.

Leaders Excelling in Academic Pathways allows

qualified students to participate in an amped-up version of dual enrollment.

CACC director of enrollment services Kendal Entrekin said the program is very competitive and, once selected, is very rigorous.

“The students are bussed to CACC and take classes with other dual enrollment students and regular college students,” Entrekin said. “The summer after ninth grade through the summer they graduate, they also attend classes.”

She said students in the program take two classes per semester at CACC and usually three in the summer.

“The LEAP program is really the best of the best,” Lynn said. “If we could offer that for all the students, that would be the ultimate goal.”

Now in its sixth year in Alexander City, Lynn said he just helped start the program at a Northwest Alabama school.

While CACC does a lot with career tech and workforce readiness with the rural school systems, Tallapoosa County and Coosa County schools, ACS is mostly self-contained, but BRHS students can dual enroll at CACC for any technical classes not offered at the high school.

“We want to get kids excited about what they can do in life... If we create these pathways when they are young, they will start to connect the dots. The more we expose them to those connections, the more it might spark some kind of fire under them.”

Jaden Tuck, Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Workforce & Career Readiness Coordinator

When the plans for the new BRHS were underway, ACS superintendent Jose Reyes said a lot of thought was put into career tech.

“There are different needs in different communities; there are different job opportunities,” Reyes said. “So you find out

what job opportunities are there for graduates, and then you want to match your programs to that.”

While the design of the new high school was already complete before Reyes became superintendent, he is satisfied the tech classrooms that were built are what the area needs.

“We have our culinary program, basically it is a home economics (class) on steroids,” he said.”The kitchen that we have for our culinary department, you would find it adequate (as a cafeteria kitchen) for some of the smaller schools in the area.”

Reyes said the culinary program was chosen for a tech class because of Lake Martin.

“You have numerous restaurants on the lake, and we’re talking high-end restaurants,” he said. “You’ll find the same things in Birmingham, in Montgomery and in the Auburn/ Opelika area. What you’re doing is creating a program that, while students could move to another town and do these things, they could also live here in Tallapoosa County and meet the needs here.”

BRHS also offers welding, which Reyes said once a student completes the curriculum, they can continue their education at CACC. The small engine program the high school offers is another area that supports the community. Between equipment used in landscaping and boats, the Lake Martin area always needs qualified small engine mechanics.

“Our nursing program goes back to the same thing that I mentioned about our culinary program,” he said. “We always have a need here at Russell Medical for quality nurses, RNs and LPNs.”

In previous decades, many of the technical trades were overlooked, but recently more people have become aware that a nice income can be had from these trades.

“What we’re trying to do is fill the needs that we have here in the local area and beyond, where someone can still live in Tallapoosa County, but also find a job that will allow them to live that middle class lifestyle that all of us certainly shoot for,” Reyes said.

BRHS career tech director Josh Williams also includes other career readiness classes into the overall program, Reyes said.

“We teach students about resumes and interviewing skills in the classroom,” Reyes said. “But what we’ve actually done is we’ve taken it a step further. Dr. Williams makes contacts with businesses and industries in the area, and we’re matching our students and their interests with those particular businesses. What we’re doing is we’re matching students with organizations that are in the electrical business, in the construction business, in the earth moving business.”

Reyes said these contacts and part time jobs for students allow them to see if they want to make a career out of the job and if they choose can possibly move into a full time position with the company after they graduate.

ACS has also partnered with the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce to promote workforce readiness — at an even younger age than high school.

Chamber workforce and career readiness coordinator Jaden Tuck said one of the things the chamber does is look for ways

A young student is paired with a culinary arts student from BRHS as part of the Future Force Lab program

to introduce business to elementary-aged students.

“We try to expose kids to different industries,” Tuck said. “This helps children understand different career paths that might be different from what Mom and Dad do.”

In its second year, Future Force Lab is a partnership with the chamber and currently the gifted class from the city’s third and fourth grades.

The lab places young students with high schoolers and gives them all a chance to work together in different areas including STEM-related experiences and even in BRHS’s culinary kitchen.

“We want to get kids excited about what they can do in life,” Tuck said.

He said what the chamber is doing is trying to build a bridge from the top down.

“If we create these pathways when they are young, they will start to connect the dots,” Tuck said. “The more we expose them to those connections, the more it might spark some kind of fire under them.”

While Central Coosa High School may not have the facilities to teach as many tech classes as neighboring BRHS, the school’s partnership with CACC has helped in that area.

“Our health science classes are offered through CACC’s dual enrollment,” career coach Karen Hayes said. “We have had several graduate from CACC before they graduate high school.”

Hayes said Coosa also offers welding through the dual enrollment partnership with CACC.

On the campus, career tech classes offered include automotive mechanics, education in training, business and agribusiness, she said.Hayes said one of the ways mechanics learn their trade is offering certain services to the public. She said people could bring their vehicles to the high school for minor

things such as oil changes.

Virtual classrooms let students try their hand at many different jobs

Another thing the school offers is two big events to students annually to help with their career goals or workforce readiness, Hayes said.

“We have one big college and career fair,” she said. “And we have a hiring day. This is for businesses and industries looking to hire students.”

Hayes said the hiring fair not only gives students the chance at employment but also helps build their soft skills.

“Getting a job through the fair helps students find their passion,” Hayes said. “They may find something they like, not just a job.”

She said many times students will ask her why they should apply for one of the many jobs offered from local businesses through the job fair.

“They will ask me things like, ‘What if I get two job offers?’” Hayes said. “I guide them through the process, tell them what to consider like how much each job pays, or does the schedule work for you.”

For Tallapoosa County students, Edward Bell Career Technical Center offers many of the same career tech classes as other systems. A few things they offer that are slightly different from other schools are law enforcement and fire classes, work-based learning and even an educators in training program.

Another thing Edward Bell works towards is growing the opportunities for students by looking for ways to expand. Recently, the welding program received a $30,000 grant from Extreme Trades Makeover. The funds will be used to create an outdoor teaching space that will give students real world experience.

The Lake Martin area offers plenty of opportunities for students to find a career path that will work for them. The partnerships between education and business have helped students broaden their horizons as far as what they can do after high.

“There used to be a lot more two year graduates that were going to transfer to a four year school,” Lynn said. “Probably 50% of our students are coming through workforce (training), meaning learning how to work in a manufacturing facility or a hospital or nursing home or some kind of healthcare provider. I’m a big believer that you can get a certificate and go make $21 to $24 an hour.”

Be Our Guest

STORY BY SARAH CHASE

Alexander City and Lake Martin are only going up. The two are seeing more visitors and more residents, and local businesses seem to open almost every week. As growth continues and major events move to the area, having somewhere to end each day becomes increasingly important. That is why two new hotels are making their way to Alex City: Holiday Inn Express & Suites and La Quinta Inn & Suites.

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce president Steve Robinson said 1,000 hotel rooms is not just a number, but a direct need as a result of the number of fishing tournaments held in the city. According to Robinson, Alex City has only about 300 hotel rooms currently.

“Last year, 2025 calendar, we had 36 major fishing tournaments on the lake,” Robinson said. “When we host those tournaments, naturally we have their fan bases that follow the people that are fishing and lodging is something that is very important to us. When you talk about the number of rooms we actually need right now, that is that 1,000 number. People come to the events, but they wind up lodging outside of our community.”

However these hotels are not being built just for a place to stay. Robinson said each hotel is equipping their parking places with chargers, which allows visitors to keep their boats and fishing gear charged. The hotels could possibly have event venues inside of them, so when Alex City hosts events such as the Bassmaster Tournament, the hotels have a space for participants to do enrollments, participation and other operations.

New hotels are always something to look forward to, but a local and hometown feel is not far for newcomers either. Mistletoe Bough Bed and Breakfast is located on 497 Hillabee St. in Alex City and its owner and keeper Jennifer Durrett takes pride in the B&B feeling like a home.

“When you walk in this house, it automatically feels warm and welcoming,” Durrett said. “It smells good. There are sweet treats for you to grab and eat if you need a snack. The rooms are equipped like your home rooms would be.”

Durrett said when staying at a bed and breakfast, the innkeeper is the built-in concierge. They share events happening in the city and where to shop, give directions and provide guidance for the weather. Along with everyday breakfast, the B&B offers a romantic dinner for two, sunset cruises on Lake Martin, a romance package and massages.

“We have business travelers, but a lot of times on the weekends we have people seeking a romantic getaway (and) those types of things, so we try to create an atmosphere like that,” Durrett said. “We are 12 and up for a reason. We want people to be able to come here and enjoy their time and get away from their everyday life.”

More places to stay  Quality Inn

Located at 2945 US-280 in Alexander City is the Quality Inn. All of the rooms have en suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, coffeemakers, microwaves and desks. The hotel offers complimentary continental breakfast with free coffee and also houses a seasonal outdoor pool. There are guest laundry facilities and free parking for trucks, buses and RVs. Check in is at 3 p.m. and check out is at 11 a.m.

Hampton Inn Alexander City

The Hampton Inn Alexander City is located at 1551 Elkahatchee Raod. Coffeemakers, flat screen televisions and both full and lap desks in every room. Along with Wi-Fi and custom-designed beds, the rooms also have pull-out sofas. Visitors also enjoy free hot breakfast, weekday breakfast bags to go and 24/7 coffee and tea in the lobby. Take a dip in the outdoor pool, stay active with the fitness room and take care of business in the business center.

Days Inn by Wyndham Alexander City

Every room and suite have bathrooms with showers and free Wi-Fi, televisions, desks, microwaves, minifridges and tea and coffeemakers. Sitting areas with sofa-beds or in-room Jacuzzis are available in the suites and kids under 17 with a paying adult stay for free. Guests receive a free complimentary breakfast buffet and there is an outdoor pool, an exercise room and a business center along with free parking for RVs and buses.

Enjoy a stay in Alexander City using Airbnb

Whip-poor-will Bungalow

This tiny home on the lake offers 2 bedrooms, 3 beds and 1 bath. It houses 4 guests and furry friends are welcome. 500 square feet of comfortable living space It is located a fourth of a mile from Wind Creek State Park. Amenities include pool, fire pit and pond stocked with catfish welcome to guests.

Swan Lake Cabin

A good home away from home for a family. It houses 6 guests, has 4 beds and 2 bathrooms. The private pier offers a great opportunity for fishing or enjoying the view. It includes a grill, furnished deck, living area and a fully equipped modern kitchen.

The Fish Hook

Located directly on Lake Martin, it houses up to 6 guests with 3 bedrooms, 4 beds and 2 baths. It is a newly remodeled mobile home with 3 shared boat docks for swimming, fishing or mooring a boat. The boat docks are shared with 2 other cabins and the property is equipped with outdoor security cameras.

Paw-sitively Lake Martin

Your pup will be welcome on a leash at most outdoor venues in the Alexander City area, and some events are even planned to honor them, like the Bark in the Park pet show during June’s Sun Festival celebration. Dogs will enjoy visiting the dog park at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex, where fencing, seating and dog attractions make it the perfect place to burn off some energy.

Dogs are welcome on a leash at Strand Park in downtown Alexander City, as well as The Town Green at Russell Crossroads and at Wind Creek State Park. Just remember to always clean up after your pet. Keeping a bag dispenser on the leash is a great way to stay prepared.

There are a few regulations you need to be aware of and follow. The most important are that all dog owners must clean up after their pets (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 39), and all dogs must be on a leash or confined in a home, yard, etc. at all times (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 43).

All dog owners must register their pets with animal control to receive a license and accompanying license tag, which is to be worn by the dog at all times. In order to receive a license, you must have your dog’s rabies tag/certification (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 35).

When the license is issued, animal control will provide a serially numbered tag or decal with the year the license was issued on it. Every dog is required to have its own license and tag, as the serial number will coordinate with the dog listed on the license (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 36).

All dogs must wear both the rabies vaccination tag and the license tag on the collar/ harness (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 37).

Any dog that is trained for guard dog protection must be registered with the city police department, chief of police and animal control. A guard-dog-on-duty sign must be posted where it is easily visible (Ord. No. 2012-03, § 46).

Alexander City Police Department maintains an animal control division, and those officers can be called for any issues with animals, including strays, aggressive dogs or dogs that appear to be unwell. Animals that have been picked up by the officers usually are sheltered at Lake Martin Animal Shelter.

If your pet is lost, a call to the animal control officers or the animal shelter might help to bring the pet home quickly. Check social media sites, as owners and finders often post photos and notices of lost-and-found pets on Facebook and other platforms.

If you didn’t bring a pet with you and hope to include one in your new life here, adoption options are available. In addition to the local shelter, veterinarians often know of pets in need of forever homes.

For more information about these or other ordinances, or for information on penalties for violation, visit alexandercityal.gov > Resources > Code of Ordinances > Chapter 10 or call 256-329-2470. Call Lake Martin Animal Shelter at 256-234-5533.

LOCAL VETS

Alexander City Veterinary Clinic 1068 Airport Dr., Alexander City 256-234-6751 | alexcityvet.com

Wayside Animal Hospital 2630 Dadeville Road, Alexander City 256-329-9900

Dadeville Animal Clinic

17830 U.S. Route 280, Dadeville 256-825-9308 | dadevilleanimal.com

Animal Care Center

17309 U.S. Route 280, Dadeville 256-825-6737 | animalcarecenter280.com

Kowaliga Veterinary Care 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic 334-857-1816 | kowaligavet.com

DOG PARKS

Charles E. Bailey, Sr. Sportplex 1685 Arena Road, Alexander City 256-329-6736 | alexandercityal.gov/parks-rec

BOARDING & GROOMING

Southern Star Pet Grooming and Boarding 10390 state Route 259, Alexander City 256-215-5586 | southernstarboard.com

Charlene’s Pet Grooming 369 Scott Rd, Alexander City, AL 35010 256-786-1050 | pet.ecomify.net/explore/ charlenes-pet-grooming

Lake Martin Paw Pals LLC 792 Commerce Dr., Alexander City 256-392-5664 | lakemartinpawpalsllc. mypixieset.com

Templeton Pet Hotel and Grooming 154-822 Lett St., Dadeville 256-794-0401

Whispering Pines Pet Resort 4240 state Route, Dadeville 334-379-6494 | wpprlakemartin.com

Get Connected

�� INTERNET

These days, business can be transacted quickly and easily online, so you’ll want to secure internet service early. Thanks to the Alabama Rescue Plan, internet access and speeds in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties are increasing at a rapid rate. ARP made grant monies available to extend internet service to rural areas with low population density.

Local cable television and internet services for business and residential customers in Alexander City and portions of the Lake Martin area are provided by Charter Spectrum. Visit spectrum.com to get started. In selected areas, Troy Cable also provides residential service. Get started at troycable.net. Satellite television services are available in outlying areas, and there are flexible options for internet bandwidth and download speed to meet business and residential needs. DirecTV and Dish TV provide satellite service in the area. Check out the websites at directv.com or dish. com for packages and pricing. In addition, Starlink also is an option at starlink.com.

�� UTILITIES

Alexander City owns and maintains natural gas, electrical, sewer and water distributions systems, serving approximately 8,000 customers. These services are billed on one monthly statement, along with curbside garbage pick up, which is contracted through GFL Environmental.

Visit the Alexander City Municipal Complex in person at 281 James D. Nabors Drive to activate utility services. You will need to provide a Social Security number for a soft credit check, as well as driver’s license or other federal or state identification. You also will be required to sign a consent for collections of delinquent utility accounts. The City will run a credit check and charge a service deposit based on your credit score.

The municipal complex is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Once service has been established, you can pay your monthly bill using one of four methods: online; at one of three 24-hour drop boxes; in person at the municipal complex; or by mail.

Pay online at alexandercityal.gov/community/ page/pay-my-bill. You will be required to provide your account number and service address.

Drop boxes are located at Cooper Rec Center at 625 ML King Jr. Blvd. in Alexander City; at the municipal complex on James D. Nabors Drive; and at the old City Hall building in downtown Alexander City. Pay in person at the municipal complex with a debit or credit card, check or cash, or mail payment to 281 James D. Nabors Drive, Alexander City AL 35010.

Alabama Power provides electrical service for a few addresses within city limits. Start Alabama

Power service online at customerservice2.southerncompany.com or by calling 800-245-2244. This number can also be called to report power outages for Alabama Power customers.

♻ GARBAGE PICK UP & RECYCLING

GFL Environmental provides weekly curbside garbage collection for Alexander City. Call 256-329-6710 to set up service. Visit alexandercityal.gov/waste/ page/garbage-pickup for the collection date for your address. Elderly or disabled city residents may request back-door pick-up service by contacting the mayor’s assistant at 256-329-6730.

The City of Alexander City provides a brush pickup service to residents in city limits. Residents also may dispose of limbs, leaves, tires, furniture, construction debris and other similar items at the city landfill at 1507 North Central Avenue. Bring a recent utility bill to prove residency. Visit alexandercityal. gov/waste/page/north-central-ave-inert-landfill for a fee schedule. The landfill is open 6:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.

There is a 24/7 recycling center available to Alexander City residents, which is located at the intersection of Joseph Street and First Way. Electronics can also be dropped off for a small fee during operating hours.

�� DRIVER’S LICENSE & VEHICLE REGISTRATION

Apply for a new driver’s license or renew an existing license at the Department of Motor Vehicles in the Courthouse Annex at 395 Lee Street in Alexander City. Hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Testing is conducted only on the third Tuesday and Wednesday of each month.

Driver’s license renewals also may be obtained at the Tallapoosa County Courthouse at 125 N. Broadnax Street in Dadeville. Offices in both locations are open 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

If you have moved from out of state and have an out-of-state driver’s license, you will need to surrender your out-of-state license and take an eye examination.

Vehicle registrations can also be completed in both locations. Bring the title, bill of sale, insurance card and valid driver’s license. While the offices are open until 4:30 p.m., no title work is processed after 4 p.m.Special tags also are available.

�� VOTER REGISTRATION

Stop in at Room 20 in the Tallapoosa County Courthouse between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to register to

vote or to update your address or other registration information. For any election, the last day to register to vote or to update your voter registration is the 15th day prior to the election. To register, you must be a citizen of the United States and must live in the State of Alabama. You must be at least 18 years of age on or before election day.

Register online at sos.alabama.gov/alabama-votes/ voter/register-to-vote. Or download the Alabama Voter Registration Form at that same address; then, print, complete and mail the form to Board of Registrars, Tallapoosa County Courthouse, 125 N. Broadnax Street, Room 20, Dadeville AL 36853.

�� MAIL & PACKAGE DELIVERIES

Change your mailing address online at usps.com or in person at the Alexander City Post Office at 233 Lee Street. The office is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturdays. Post office boxes are accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s best to file this address change about a week before you actually move, so you don’t miss any important mail deliveries.

And be sure to notify banks, credit card companies and investment companies, as well as family, friends and favorite charities with your new address.

To send packages via courier, visit Goin’ Postal at 2036 Cherokee Road in Alexander City. This private business accepts shipments for UPS, FedEx, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service. They are open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and provide additional services, including fax and copy service, private mailboxes, stamp sales and notary services.

�� SOCIAL SECURITY

The Social Security Administration office in Alexander City can help answer questions concerning benefits and supplemental security income. The office is located at 63 Aliant Parkway and is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday.

To receive a new or replacement card, applicants must provide a valid driver’s license or identification card, insurance card, marriage certificate, divorce papers or school records. It takes about 10 days to receive the new Social Security card, but there is no charge. For basic issues, residents can call the automated Social Security line at 877-405-0483. For residents 65 years and older, the staff can correct earning mistakes or help plan future funding. Visit socialsecurity.gov to apply directly for Medicaid, disability benefits or a Social Security card, check on an application status, plan for retirement or report fraud and abuse of the Social Security system.

WHAT'S Happening

For additional events and updated dates, visit the event calendars in Lake Martin Living, Lake magazine and The Alexander City Outlook.

SEASON-LONG FAVORITES

Naturalist Programs at Russell Crossroads Interactive presentations and guided nature tours with Naturalist Marianne Hudson throughout the year. Info: RussellLands.com/ blog/events

Children's Harbor Treasures & Thrift Store

Open Thursday through Saturday with unique finds, all benefiting Children's Harbor. Info: 334857-2008

Music in the Air

Free live music every Thursday evening at Zazu's Verandah on Dadeville Square. Info: Zazu's Verandah on Facebook

Wellborn Musclecar Museum

Explore one of the Southeast's premier collections of classic American muscle cars on Saturdays. Info: 256-329-8474 • wellbornmusclecarmuseum@gmail.com

Alexander City Farmers Market (June–September)

Fresh produce, baked goods, jams and handmade goods every Saturday morning. Info: 256-329-9227

AUGUST

Duck Norris Derby

Thousands of rubber ducks race down the lake to benefit Tallapoosa County Girls Ranch and TriCounty Children's Advocacy. Info: Chuck's Marina Facebook page

SEPTEMBER

Labor Day Music Fest at Russell Crossroads

A free two-night outdoor concert featuring live

music, food and family fun. Info: RussellLands. com/blog/events

Lake Martin Living Art & Photo Contest & Reception Contest submissions are due mid-September. All entries will be displayed in a reception at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center Proceeds go towards DPAC to support their efforts in providing community programs. Info: lakemartinlivingmagazine.com

OCTOBER

Dadeville Fall Festival

Arts and crafts, food vendors, live entertainment and children's activities fill downtown Dadeville. Info: 256-825-4019 • chamber@dadeville.com

Fall Family Festival at Russell Crossroads

Wagon rides, pumpkin decorating, archery, contests and fall fun for all ages. Info: RussellLands.com

Alexander City Oktoberfest

A day of arts, crafts, food, entertainment and family activities. Info: 256-329-6736

NOVEMBER

Renew Our Rivers

Volunteers help keep Lake Martin beautiful during the annual shoreline cleanup. Info: John Thompson, 334-399-3289

Holiday Open House

Downtown businesses celebrate the season with shopping, Santa and special promotions. Info: Alexander City Chamber, 256-234-3461

Christmas at Crossroads

Holiday market, festive decorations and seasonal entertainment at Russell Crossroads. Info: 256397-1397 • RussellCrossroads.com

Christmas in the Park

Patriot Park comes alive with dazzling lights and decorated Christmas trees. Info: Follow Lake Martin Living magazine and Facebook for details.

DECEMBER

Hometown Christmas Parade

One of East Alabama's largest holiday parades featuring floats, bands, dancers and Santa Claus. Info: Alexander City Chamber, 256-234-3461

JANUARY

Polar Plunge

Brave the icy waters of Lake Martin while raising money for lake safety and conservation. Info: LakeMartinYP.org

FEBRUARY

Russell Forest Run

Scenic 5K and 10K races benefiting the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. Info: RussellForestRun.com

MARCH

Alexander City Chili & Gumbo Cook-Off

Sample award-winning recipes and enjoy friendly competition downtown. Info: Main Street Alexander City Facebook page

APRIL

Boating Basics Course

Free classes help boaters prepare for a safe season on the water. Info: dps.alabama.gov

Children's Harbor Auction

A signature fundraiser supporting seriously ill children and their families. Info: 205-638-6606

Hometown Christmas Parade

Old 280 Boogie

A full day of live music, food and camping at Standard Deluxe in Waverly. Info: StandardDeluxe.com

MAY

RXR Fest & Art on the Lake Memorial Day weekend brings live music, local artists and family entertainment to Russell Crossroads. Info: RussellLands.com

JUNE

Sun Festival

Alexander City's signature summer celebration featuring concerts, family activities, veterans tributes and the popular Medallion Hunt. Info: Follow The Alexander City Outlook on Facebook.

JULY

Russell Marine Fourth of July Boat Parade

Decorated boats cruise Lake Martin in a patriotic tradition. Info: 334-857-2111

Celebrate Freedom

An evening of live music, food and fireworks in Alexander City.

Fourth of July Concert & Fireworks at The AMP

One of the Southeast's largest fireworks shows over Lake Martin. Info: TheAmpOnLakeMartin.com

Lions Lake Martin Poker Run

Boaters compete for the best poker hand while enjoying a day on the lake. Info: RussellMarine.net

Lake Martin Songwriters Festival

National and regional songwriters take the stage for an unforgettable weekend of music. Info: LakeMartinSongwritersFestival.com

ALABAMA

Kay Ivey

Governor 334-242-7100

600 Dexter Ave. Montgomery, AL

Will Ainsworth Lt. Governor 334-261-9590 11 S. Union St. Montgomery, AL

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

T.C. Coley District 1

256-825-4268

941 Ridgeway Dr. Alexander City, aL

Steve Robinson District 2 256-654-0047

300 Heritage Dr. Alexander City, AL

Tommy Tuberville U.S. Senator 334-523-7424

1 Church St. Ste. 500-B Montgomery, AL

John McKelvey District 3

256-825-4268

125 N. Broadnax St. Dadeville, AL

Katie Britt U.S. Senator 334-777-1150

1 Church St. Ste. F-401 Montgomery, AL

Steve Marshall Attorney General 334-242-7300

501 Washington Ave. Montgomery, AL

Ed Oliver (R) House District 81 334-261-0471

11 S. Union St., Ste. 400-A Montgomery, AL

Jay Hovey Senate District 27 334-261-0865

11 S. Union St., Ste. 735 Montgomery, AL

Clyde Chambliss Jr. Senate District 30 334-261-0872

11 S. Union St., Ste. 721 Montgomery, AL clyde.chambliss@alsenate.gov

Emma Jean Thweatt District 4 256-825-4207

585 Brookwood Circle Dadeville, AL

George Carleton Jr. District 5 256-825-4268

125 N. Broadnax St. Dadeville, AL

ALEXANDER CITY

Mike Densmore Mayor 256-329-6730

81 James D. Nabors Dr. Alexander City, AL

Bobby Tapley District 1 256-392-0344

1821 LaVista Rd. Alexander City, AL

Bill Young District 2

256-596-0866

752 Rocky Creek Rd. Alexander City, AL

Julie Goree District 3 334-332-5213

65 N. Central Ave. Alexander City, AL

Kelly Waldrop District 4 256-794-2559

1777 Althea Loop Alexander City, AL

Jaden Tuck District 5 256-786-2524

1305 Warren Cir. S. Alexander City, AL

Mike Lucas District 6 256-596-0104

22 Fairlane Cir. Alexander City, AL

Public Safety & Governmental Meetings

PUBLIC SAFETY

To contact the local police department, fire department or sheriff’s department, call one of the numbers listed below, and someone will be able to assist you. All emergency calls should be made to 911, and the appropriate department will be dispatched.

ALEXANDER CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

Chief: Chris Spivey

Address: 281 James D. Nabors Dr. in Alexander City

Phone: 256-234-3421

Dispatch: 256-234-3421

Office hours: 8 am to 4 pm Monday - Friday

ALEXANDER CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

Chief: Reese McAlister

Address: 281 James D. Nabors Dr. in Alexander City

Station 1 phone: 256-329-6780

Station 2 phone: 256-329-5771

Burning permits: 256-329-6781

Fire marshal: 256-329-6761

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

Sheriff: Jimmy Abbett

Address: 316 Industrial Park Dr. in Dadeville

Phone: 256-825-4264

Fax: 256-825-1012

Email: tallapoosacounty.sheriff@gmail.com

Secret witness line: 256-827-2035

COOSA COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

Sheriff: Michael Howell

Address: 296 School St. in Rockford

Phone: 256-377-4922

Fax: 256-377-2690

Email: office@coosaso.com

GOVERNMENT AND TOWN MEETINGS

➤ Alexander City Board of Education- Third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm at 375 Lee St.

➤ Alexander City City Council - First and third Mondays of each month at 5:30 pm in the City Council Chamber at the Municipal Complex.

➤ Camp Hill Town Council - First and third Mondays of each month at 6pm in Town Hall.

➤ Community Action Agency of Chambers, Tallapoosa and Coosa counties - Regular board of directors meeting every other month at the Central Office in Dadeville.

➤ Coosa County Board of Education holds called meetings at least once a month.

➤ Coosa County Commission - Second Tuesday of each month in the Coosa County Courthouse in Rockford at 9:30 am

➤ Coosa County Industrial Development Board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting the third Tuesday of each month at 7 pm in the Commissioners Board Room in the courthouse in Rockford. All meetings are open to the public.

➤ Dadeville City CouncilSecond and fourth Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm with a pre-meeting at 5:15 pm in the conference room of City Hall.

➤ Daviston Town Hall Council - Third Monday of every month at 6:30 pm at the Daviston Fire Department.

➤ Goldville Town Council - Second Monday of each month at 5:30 pm at the Town Hall.

➤ Goodwater City Council - Second Tuesday of each month at the Community Center at 6:30 pm.

➤ Jacksons Gap Town Council - Second Tuesday of each month in Town Hall at 6:30 pm.

➤ Kellyton Town Council - First Tuesday of the month at 6:30 pm at Kellyton Community Center.

➤ New Site Town Council - First and third Monday of the month at 5 pm in the conference room in the Town Hall.

➤ Ray Water Authority - Second Tuesday of every month at 6 pm at the Ray Water Authority Office. All customers are invited to attend.

➤ Rockford Town Council - Third Tuesday of each month in Town Hall at 6 pm

➤ Tallapoosa County Board of Education - Third Tuesday of each month at 5 pm in the central office at 679 E. Columbus St. in Dadeville.

➤ Tallapoosa County Commission - Second Monday of the month at 9 am in the courthouse in Dadeville, with a pre-meeting also open to the public 30 minutes before each regular session.

➤ Tallapoosa County 911 Board - Second Wednesday of each month at 5 pm in the 911 Administrative office at 240 W. Columbus St. in Dadeville. Call 256-825-984 for more information.

➤ Walnut Hill Water Authority - Third Monday of each month at 6:30 pm Call 256-825-9841 for information.

121 Disposal Company, LLC

334-703-3950

1220 Café

334-252-1220

A & E Metal Roofing Supply

256-329-0034

A2Z Land Creations, Inc

334-749-2004

AAA General Contractors

256-329-9843

Abernathy & Britton, CPA

256-234-3561

Abundant Life Church

205-784-6246

Achievement Center-Easter Seals

334-745-3501

Adams Health & Rehab

256-329-0847

Adelia M. Russell Public Library

256-409-7001

Adobe 800-915-9428

Advance America

256-212-9383

Advanced Heating & Air Pros, LLC

334-501-2426

After Hours Cleaning Co & Property Managment DBA Lake Babies Concierge & Baby Equipment Rentals

256-307-8084

Alabama B.A.S.S. Nation

256-749-6053

Alabama Education Association

334-834-9790

Alabama Paper & Supply, Co.

256-839-1050

Alabama Power Company

205-561-4141

Alana's Place

256-504-7328

Alex City Gideons

256-794-2950

Alex City Grading

256-234-7359

Alex City Marine Sales & Service, LLC

256-215-3474

Alex City Nails

256-392-3320

Alex City Parkway Apartments

256-234-6869

Alex City Plumbing

256-494-7117

Alex City Tobacco & Vapor

313-231-7750

Alexander City Arts, Inc.

256-749-8073

Alexander City Board of Education

256-234-5074

Alexander City Career Center

256-414-6146

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce

256-234-3461

Alexander City Dental Care & Dr. Myles Wiggins

256-234-5003

Alexander City Fire Department

256-329-6780

Alexander City Housing Authority

256-329-2201

Alexander City Kiwanis Club

256-329-7445

Alexander City Lion's Club

Alexander City Meals on Wheels

256-329-7382

Alexander City Methodist Church

256-329-1284

Alexander City Middle School

256-234-8660

Alexander City Outlook

256-234-4281

Alexander City Parks & Recreation

256-392-5762

Alexander City Police Department

256-234-3421

Alexander City Rotary Club

256-329-2273

Alexander City Schools Education Foundation

256-496-2424

Alexander City Theatre (ACT II)

256-509-6411

Alexander City Veterinary Clinic

256-234-6751

ALFA Insurance

256-329-0544

All Clear Plumbing & Air, LLC

256-496-2056

Allegiance Staffing, Inc.

256-329-3477

Allen Food Marts, Inc.

256-329-9949

AllState Insurance, Parmer Agency 256-215-3833

Alpha Septic Sanitation, LLC

256-827-9021

Amazin Grazin 771-685-9401

American Inn

256-329-8858

American Red Cross

256-234-3291

Anchor Installations, LLC

205-910-4497

Angela Smith, Key to Lake Martin & Surrounding Areas, LLC

256-397-4400

Animal Care Center

256-825-6737

Aral Investments, LLC

256-392-6163

ARISE, Inc.

256-329-8444

Armour's Funeral Home

256-234-2776

Artistic Hair Styles

256-234-3618

Ashley Homestore, Opelika 334-363-0440

At Your Service

256-392-3479

Athletic Department 256-750-1546

Auburn IT, LLC 334-625-1770

Auburn Productions 334-539-7368

Audrey Moore TLC Real Estate, LLC 256-786-0465

Azalea Court I & II 256-234-9999

Azalea Cove Waterside 205-601-6668

Bailey's 256-392-3215

Ballard Construction Co., Inc. 256-329-3771

Ballard Properties, LLC

256-749-0976

Ballard Truss, Inc. 256-496-2266

Barbara's Studio of Dance 256-329-1163

Benjamin Russell High School

256-234-8611

Benton Clearing & Grading, Inc. 256-397-2532

Beta Sigma Phi XIXI Chapter 256-749-5321

Beyond Home Care, LLC

256-414-6090

Bice Motors, Inc. 256-234-2501

Big B Bar-B-Que 256-329-9996

Bill Nichols State Veterans Home

256-329-0868

Alexander City Chamber Members Directory

Bill's Electric

256-234-4555

Blalock Williams

334-703-3454

Blossman Gas & Appliances 334-749-1431

Blue Ridge Mountain Water 334-273-1119

Boosters

334-263-4711

Bradberry Pointe Apartments 256-392-4336

Brightline Advisory Services, LLC 205-283-2365

Browder & Welborn, LLC 205-349-1910

Brown Nursing Home, LLC

256-329-9061

Bru 63

256-215-7077

Buck's Dairy Quick 256-392-3565

Burger King 256-329-2317

C & T Electric

256-234-0007

Caldwell Electronics

256-329-8000

Caring Transitions of Lake Martin 256-269-0023

Carlisle Heating & Air Conditioning 256-234-0019

Carlisle's 256-392-3097

Carlos Mexican Grill 256-329-9901

Catherine's Market 256-215-7070

Central Alabama Community College 256-234-6346

Central Alabama Counseling, LLC 256-329-3399

Central State Bank 256-215-6795

CES Industries 256-409-8070

Channell Comfort Cooling & Heating, LLC

256-786-0367

Chapman Healthcare & Assisted Living 256-234-6366

Charlene's Pet Grooming 256-786-1050

Charter HR 256-234-6234

Cherokee Quick Stop 256-329-9556

Chevalier Productions, LLC 256-835-0360

Chick-fil-A 938-867-4799

Child Care Resource Center 334-749-8400

Children's Harbor 334-857-2133

Chique Hair & Nails 256-392-5505

City of Alexander City 256-329-6701

Clark Holmes Smith Oral Facial Surgery 256-397-9170

Clash Pressure Washing 256-537-5519

Clean Start Pressure Washing 256-675-0401

Cloud Nine 256-329-9797

CMC Recycling 256-329-0585

Coalition Construction Services 256-212-2265

Colonial Apartments

256-234-2117

Combined Insurance

334-657-6342

Concrete Pros, LLC

256-596-1223

Constellation, Inc. 256-215-7100

Cooper, Katharine M.D. 256-234-2464

Corbin, Tim, M.D. 256-234-4295

Corner Market, LLC 256-794-2969

Cornerstone First Global Methodist Church 256-801-1746

Cornerstone Insurance, Scotty Gordon Agency 334-559-8889

Country Financial, Dylan Johnson Agency 256-750-0558

Country Financial, Shelia Martin Agency 256-329-3020

Covey Rise Magazine 256-329-3020

Crossroads Senior Living, LLC 205-813-7580

Dadeville Animal Clinic 256-825-9308

Dadix, Inc.

256-749-5500

Dairy Creem 256-234-6199

Dark Insurance Agency 256-234-5026

Data Plus Security, LLC 205-994-6130

Davis Tire Group 256-392-4545

Days Inn 256-234-6311

Densmore, Mike & Patsy-Coe 256-749-9355

Derek Holcombe, M.D. 256-329-2829

Dianne James Davis, Attorney at Law 256-392-3172

Dianne Naler CPA, PC 256-409-1120

Disabled American Veterans, Bill Nichols Chapter 13 719-360-5027

Divine Treats 256-496-4684

Dixie Electric 334-328-3570

Dixie Sailing Club 256-392-9372

Docks Unlimited 256-203-8400

Doc's Cafeteria 256-329-7625

Dodson and Liles Smiles 256-879-0099

Early Learning Center - (First Baptist) 256-392-4438

Early Rose Baptist Church 256-234-6607

East Alabama Mental Health 334-742-2112

East Alabama Regional Planning & Development Commission 256-237-6741

East Dale Realty, Inc. 256-329-3700

Easter Seals Camp ASCCA 256-825-9226

Economy Gas Service, Inc. 256-378-5596

Edge Home Finance Corp. 707-354-8015

Edward Jones

256-329-9136

Elevated State, LLC

256-794-3891

Emporium Wine

256-212-9463

Energy Southeast

334-387-3501

Engineered Cooling Services

205-471-0049

EnviroCare (Lex Wedgeworth Pest Control)

256-234-6162

Eula Mae's

256-392-4999

Every Last Crumb

205-886-7991

Exit Realty Anchor South 334-402-0028

Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers

256-234-6559

Eye Associates, P.C.

256-329-9064

Family Eye Care

256-329-8400

Fanny's

256-215-7090

Farmers Home Furniture

256-329-0000

Farmers Insurance - Patrick Holena

334-430-9165

Farmers Insurance, Mary Jo Johnson Agency

256-409-8080

FireTruck Bar B Que

205-612-4530

First Baptist Church

256-234-6351

First United Methodist Church

256-417-4571

Flint Hill Church

256-234-5047

For Heaven's Sake

256-234-0730

Fringe & Co. Salon

256-794-5695

Frontline Off Road

256-409-8100

Funding Solutions (512) 917-9946

Garage Force of Auburn 334-442-9920

Gary Ingram Grading & Paving, Inc. 334-332-2269

Gateway at Lake Martin

502-558-8698

GFL Solid Waste Southeast, LLC

800-243-5580

Glenda Mitchell Law Firm 678-721-0417

Globe Life Liberty National Division 404-276-0892

Go Pro Wildlife Removal

334-744-0391

Golden Dragon

917-607-8831

Grace's Flowers

256-234-4238

Grain & Leaf

256-496-2212

Great Bethel Baptist Church

256-234-5513

Griffin's Outdoor Power Equipment Sales & Service, LLC

256-839-6607

Guardian Credit Union

334-241-8790

Gunn Homes & Land

256-749-4867

Habitat for Humanity of Lake Martin Area

256-750-1318

Hagler & Brocato, LLC

205-988-5297

Hampton Inn

256-234-2244

Hardy, George D.M.D.

256-234-5678

Harrison Law Services

256-825-7393

Hawkins Outdoors

256-675-0044

Haynes Ambulance of Macon Co, LLC

334-265-1208

Haynes Life Flight, LLC

334-265-1208

Health Partners of New Site

256-392-3300

Heart of Alabama Food Bank 334-263-3784

HEMCO Inc.

256-825-9511

Henderson & Coker

256-329-9001

Henderson Glass 256-234-5464

Henderson Towing 256-392-4554

Heritage Pediatrics, LLC

256-537-9091

Heritage South Credit Union 256-245-4776

HighPoint Insurance Group The Daughtry Agency 256-234-7781

Hill Petroleum 256-839-6331

Hillabee Home and Garden Shop

256-307-4004

Hillabee Towers 256-329-0552

Hillview Memorial Park and Mausoleum,LLC 256-234-3751

Hoar Construction 205-423-3651

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

256-414-4800

Holman Floor Company 256-234-6071

Home Depot 256-234-6399

Homes By Indianwood, Inc 205-987-9112

Hometown Pharmacy

256-329-0900

Horseshoe Bend

National Military Park 256-234-7111

Houndstooth Frenchies 256-914-0401

Huddle House 256-215-7267

Hypertension & Nephrology 334-749-6523

Idle Time Family Center 256-329-8366

Inprint4U 256-749-1114

Ivy Creek Home Health of Lake Martin

256-397-1440

Ivy Creek Hospice

256-825-3272

J & J Pest Away 256-496-0169

J.A. Smith Construction 334-531-0199

Jackson Apothecary 256-392-3448

Jackson Drugs & Gifts 256-234-2538

Jackson Refrigeration 256-234-4457

JACO Sales

256-500-4305

Jacob's Ladder Creative Learning Center 256-234-5783

Jehovah-Jireh Ministries (New Millienium) 256-215-4211

Jes and Gray Living 256-430-2356

Jim Bob's Chicken Fingers

256-215-3998

Jim Pearson Elementary School 256-234-8625

JLT Event and Rentals 256-322-3211

K & S KreationS (850) 781-4806

Kerley Clinic of Chiropractic 256-392-4445

Kerley Motor Company 256-234-5331

King of Pops 404-798-3458

Kona Ice

256-794-8197

Koon's Korner 256-234-3557

Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

Kowaliga Veterinary Care 334-857-1816

Lake Area Homes, Angela VanHouten 256-596-0566

Lake Broadcasting 256-234-6464

Lake Life Wellness Studio 334-703-6769

Lake Martin Amphitheater 256-397-1019

Lake Martin Animal Rescue 334-380-6250

Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors 256-234-7522

Lake Martin Area Economic Development Alliance 256-215-4404

Lake Martin Area United Way 256-329-3600

Lake Martin Auburn Club 256-749-4774

Lake Martin Bama Club 205-365-1269

Lake Martin Boutique 334-552-0310

Lake Martin Christian Academy 256-794-4313

Lake Martin Civitan Club 256-786-0465

Lake Martin Commercial Group, LLC 256-896-1400

Lake Martin Event Rentals Florals & Gifts 256-794-2984

Lake Martin Funeral Home & Cremation 256-750-0381

Lake Martin Machine Gun 334-202-0507

Lake Martin Marketing Group 334-703-6769

Lake Martin Medical Aesthetics 256-307-4224

Lake Martin Medical Center 256-212-9300

Lake Martin Mulching & Excavation 256-794-7393

Lake Martin Painting, LLC 256-392-5200

Lake Martin Paw Pals, LLC 256-392-5664

Lake Martin Pizza Co (484) 366-4048

Lake Martin Realty 256-749-5067

Lake Martin Realty 256-212-1498

Lake Martin Realty, Damon Story 205-789-9526

Lake Martin Realty, Lake Martin Team - Rhonda Jaye & Allison Ladson 256-749-8681

Lake Martin Realty, Steve Arnberg 256-212-1498

Lake Martin Resource Association 256-329-0835

Lake Martin Roofing, LLC 256-827-9003

Lake Martin Tallapoosa County Tourism 256-392-5142

Lake Martin Tan Bar 256-596-2996

Lake Martin Tractor & Outdoor, LLC 256-329-9536

Lake Martin Trophy and Engraving 256-234-6004

Lake Martin TV 205-902-8035 Lakescape 334-857-2443

Lakeview Title & Closings, LLC 256-392-5500

LaQuinta Inn Alexander City 334-524-9550

Larry E. Speaks & Associates, Inc 334-262-1091

Law, Vincent MD 256-234-4295

Lee Apparel 256-825-0197 ext 1

Lee Marketing Group 256-825-0197

Legacy Laundromat 334-538-8968

Legacy New Homes, LLC 334-799-3922

Lewis Pest Control 256-329-1018

Liberty Gutters and Covers 334-669-5336

Liberty National Life, Angela Hanson Agency 256-234-2556

LifeSouth Blood Center East 334-705-0884

Lighthouse of Tallapoosa County 256-234-4894

Lil A Transportation 205-275-8277

Lindsay Kane 256-215-7029

Liz Charles Interiors 334-580-7743

Love Lake Martin, Paige Patterson 205-616-8046

Lynn's Quick Stop 256-234-0024

Madison & Co. Salon 256-749-8688

Madix, Inc. 256-839-6354

Magnolia Main Boutique 256-496-1095

Main Street Alexander City 256-329-9227

Main Street Family Care 256-414-3013

Mamie's Place Children's Library 256-409-7015

Marsha C. Mason Law Firm 256-329-1313 Marshalls 256-292-0920

Mary Kay Cosmetics, Wendy Mason 256-794-9885

Mary Kay Cosmetics, Gina Hays 334-524-7361

Mary Kay Cosmetics, April Price Butler 256-419-7759

Massage Therapy by Noel Boone, L.M.T. #588 256-749-0318

Maxwell AFB 334-953-3669

MBA 205-368-5656

McCrane Law, LLC. 256-825-7393

McDonald's 256-435-6527

Meacham Marketing Co.

256-392-4250

Medical Park Family Care

256-329-8400

Medicine Express Family Pharmacy

256-215-8014

Merle Norman Alex City

256-329-8852

Millhouse Howell Landscape Company

205-767-7116

Mitchell Gavin, Attorney at Law

256-329-2211

Modern Business Systems

334-748-9388

Morris Enterprises

256-749-5407

Morris Haynes, Attorneys at Law

256-329-2000

Mutual Savings Credit Union

256-234-3821

Nancy Pemberton, Key to Lake Martin & Surrounding Areas, LLC

256-794-6700

Nelson Electric

256-234-3000

Nemia's Creamery, LLC

256-392-3261

OGS Tournaments

334-740-1267

Old Number One Customs

256-749-6262

On Demand Comfort Solutions (706) 984-1079

Onin Staffing

256-234-3585

Oral & Facial Surgery of East Alabama

256-392-4916

Oskar's Cafe

256-825-4827

Our Place Respite, Inc

334-866-8610

Outdoor Friends Forever

256-496-0279

Papa John's

256-409-7272

Patterson Truck Parts & Towing

256-234-3981

Pediatric Associates of Alex City

256-234-5021

Pelican's SnoBalls

334-595-3844

Pentecostals of Dadeville 256-675-6499

People's Mortgage

256-794-1003

Petra 205-999-4699

Phoenix Physical Therapy

334-657-3709

Piggly Wiggly

256-234-3454

Pinnacle Engineering

205-733-6912

Plain & Fancy Cleaners

256-329-2695

Planet Fitness Alexander City

256-392-4866

Playhouse Cinemas

256-234-2509

Porch and Pine

678-381-6375

Praise 88.7

334-705-8004

Presley Appliance & Furniture

256-329-9762

ProCare Contracting, LLC

256-496-1234

ProgreCiv Group, Inc.

334-332-8407

Quality Inn

256-234-5900

R & D Enterprise

334-319-2376

RadioAlabama / 105.1 WRFS / KiX 96.3

/ WSGN

256-249-4263

Radney Elementary School

256-234-8636

Radney Funeral Home

256-234-2511

Radney, Radney, & Jackson, LLC

256-234-2547

Rape Counselors of East Alabama

334-741-0707

Re/Max Around the Lake, Amanda Scroggins

256-749-6634

Re/Max Around the Lake, Samantha

Spurlin

256-786-0650

Realtor / Big Fish Realty

256-786-2902

Red Flag Pest Control ®

256-825-0430

Regions Bank 256-234-1053

Reli Title of Lake Martin 205-644-8127

Renal Associates (706) 322-1486

Renfroe's Market-Alexander City

256-392-4472

Reynolds Law Firm

256-329-1333

Rita's Italian Ice & Custard (484) 366-4040

River Bank & Trust

256-329-0555

Robinson Iron, Inc.

256-329-8486

Rockin Blades

256-496-3511

Ron Carroll State Farm

256-234-2700

Ron Hill's Painting 334-710-9655

Ronin Sushi and Bar (646) 593-2153

Roots & Rain Landscapes

205-656-4847

ROTL Wash and Detail

256-750-0110

Russell Brands

256-500-4000

Russell Crossroads

256-397-1019

Russell Do It Center

256-234-2567

Russell Home Décor

256-212-9877

Russell Lands

256-329-0835

Russell Marine

256-212-1465

Russell Medical 256-329-7100

Russell Medical Gift Shop

256-329-7187

Russell Medical Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

256-397-7723

Rustic Wagon

256-307-1102

S & S Discount Tires

256-215-8822

S&K Offices at Lake Martin

256-239-0101

Sacred Fire Photography 334-703-9914

Salvation Army Service Center

256-215-3730

Satterfield, Inc.

256-234-6388

Sav-A-Life

256-329-2273

Schuler Properties, LLC

205-746-3800

Scooter's Coffee

256-392-3651

Scott Accounting & Computer Service, Inc.

256-329-1205

Securite Device Co

256-839-5215

Security Finance 256-329-9395

Seniors Helping Seniors East Central Alabama 334-752-7070

Sensigreen Heating, Cooling & Insulation 334-750-4772

Service Printing & Office Supply 256-234-6307

ServPro

256-329-5141

Sherwin Williams Company 256-234-2111

Sherwood Forest 256-234-9999

ShiftRX Russell, LLC dba Russell Retail Pharmacy 334-332-6419

Sigma 256-234-2514

Sign Source 256-825-0197 Ext 2 SK Services

256-392-5679

Skin at Lake Martin 334-324-1168

SL Alabama, LLC

256-397-8511

Slate Bargainer Building 205-637-3373

Southeast District of the United Methodist Church 256-391-6788

Southern Charm Estates Sales, LLC

256-275-6609

Southern Head & Neck Surgery 256-329-1114

Southern Preparatory Academy 256-790-9202

Southern Star Pet Grooming & Boarding 256-215-5586

SouthernCare New Beacon 256-234-1134

Spacewalk of Alexander City 256-750-1546

Sparkle Window Cleaning Services, Inc. 334-759-7080

Spencer Heating and Air 256-373-3165

SpringHouse 256-215-7080

St. John The Apostle Catholic Church 256-234-3631

State Farm Insurance Karen Channell 256-234-3481

Stephens Elementary School 256-234-8631

Stone Ridge Baptist Church 256-234-2408

Studio West Fitness, LLC 256-786-0584

Sukar & Sons of South Alabama (Cricket Wireless) 256-391-7502

Sunrise Docks, LLC

256-392-5200

Super 8 256-234-7099

Sweet Tee Boutique 256-794-2393

Tallapoosa County Bar Association 256-392-9060

Tallapoosa County Board of Education 256-825-0746

Tallapoosa County Commission 256-825-4268

Tallapoosa County Democratic Party 256-853-6010

Tallapoosa County DHR 256-825-3710

Tallapoosa County Girls Ranch

256-896-4113

Tallapoosa County Sheriff's Department 256-825-4264

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. 256-234-4281

Tallapoosa River Electric Co-op 334-864-9331

Tallapoosa's Caring REFUGE 256-496-1484

Taqueria Avita 256-392-3457

The American Legion Post 103 256-675-6208

The AMP 256-397-1019

The Cart Source 334-231-2205

The Center For Pain 334-288-7808

The Destination Resort, Inc (615) 477-9813

The Frazer Lanier Company 334-265-8483

The Hands Program 205-733-0976

The Lake Martin Society 256-510-2532

The Mitchell House 256-749-0920

The Orchard on Washington Venue 256-496-0444

The Southern Land Brokers 334-224-9520

The Square 256-749-6056

The Stables 256-794-6056

The Studio Arts and Education 334-327-0805

The Tippy Canoe 256-392-4802

The Well Counseling Center 256-615-2040

The Wright Angle 256-496-4175

Thin Blue Lawns Property Maintenance, LLC 256-496-0674

Thomas Auto Parts 256-234-5023

Three Tree Marketing 256-749-8106

Tidal Wave Auto Spa 256-302-4936

Tienda Mexicana Lina 256-392-3457

Timberland Silvicultural Services, Inc. 205-242-9901

ToothMasters 256-329-8401

Top Gun Pest Control, LLC 256-234-7375

Total Healthcare 256-329-7887

TRO Jung Brannen, Inc 205-324-6744

UAB Heart & Vascular 256-234-2644

UAB Medicine Russell Medical Cancer Center 256-329-7888

University of Phoenix (480) 560-9214

Valley Bank

256-329-7400

Veritas Lake Martin

256-537-5004

Veritext (817) 944-6074

Vinyl's Neighborhood Lounge 256-392-3629

Viva Medicare 334-868-4937

Wade Linen Service (706) 322-1779

Waller Property Maintenance

256-675-6932

Wayside Animal Hospital

256-329-9900

Wayside Baptist Church

256-234-5564

WebGuard, LLC

256-750-5856

Wellborn Forest Cabinetry

256-234-7900

Wellborn Muscle Car Museum

256-329-8474

Wendy Holder, DMD 256-234-6841

Wharf Casual Seafood 256-392-3227

Who's Diner 256-212-1501 Williams 832-975-5415

Williams Ryan, LLC 205-337-0007

Willow Point Golf & Country Club

256- 212-1407

Wing City 646-593-2153

Woody Woodpecker Learning Center 256- 234-6287

Worthy & Mitchell

256- 329-2190

Wright's Funeral Home

256- 234-6355

Zaxby's 256- 234-2181

Zee Company

Member of the Vincit Group 256- 596-0906

ZenBusiness 844-493-6249