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January 18, 2017 Vol. 125, No. 12 www.alexcityoutlook.com
Alexander City Fred’s store to close was announced by the company late last year. “The Alexander City store is being closed and Fred’s Pharmacy is doing everything possible to make the transition seamless for employees,” according to a statement released by a Fred’s corporate spokesperson. On Dec. 27, the company announced that it would be closing 40 underperforming stores in the first quarter of this year.
By MITCH SNEED Editor
An Alexander City discount store has been targeted for closure according to a company spokesperson. The Fred’s store located at 1227 Cherokee Road will be closed. Store officials said the store will close at the end of February, but the move is part of a corporate restructuring that
See FREDS • Page 11
File / The Outlook
Fred’s Pharmacy announced the closure of 40 underperforming stores in the first quarter of the year at the end of 2016. The Alexander City Fred’s is slated to close as a result.
Hospital refinances debt, sees significant savings
Students expelled over middle school gun incident
STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
By CLIFF WILLIAMS Staff Writer
The Alexander City Board of Education expelled two Alexander City Middle School students for their involvement in a gun incident at the school earlier this month. After a nearly two hour long hearing, Board Member Kelly Waldrop recommended that “Student A” be expelled from Alexander City Schools for a period of one calendar year and Board Member David Sturdivant recommended “Student B” be expelled for the remaining portion of the school year and then be allowed to attend alterative school for the first semester next year. Both expulsions were approved unanimously by the board. Denise Bates who was absent from the meeting having travelled to Washington D.C for the Trump inauguration. Cooper would not comment on the difference in the discipline between the two students other than that is what the board wanted to do. The expulsions stems from a Jan. 10 incident where a gun was discharged in the middle school and no one was injured. “We are very fortunate that the result wasn’t much worse,” Cooper said Jan. See SCHOOL • Page 11
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Liz Benton looks over memorabilia from her three trips to inugarations.
WITNESS TO HISTORY Local woman recalls inaugural experiences By MITCH SNEED Editor
When it comes to Inauguration Day, one Alexander City woman is a bit of an expert. Elizabeth Benton was on hand to see Bill Clinton sworn in as well as being among the masses to see President Barack Obama inaugurated twice. While she won’t be in Washington Friday, she said that having been blessed to witness those events still gives her a special feel-
Sidewalk Prophets 70 57 bringing Prodigal Tour to Alex City Lake Levels
ing as she vividly recalls those days. “Each one was very different, but the common thread was the feeling of being a part of government at work,” Benton said. “To me there among the masses you got a special understanding of what ‘We The People’ really means.” Benton’s first trip came in 1997, as Clinton was sworn into office for his second term. It was Jan. 20 and she said that she was sitting front and center. See INAUGURATION • Page 7
Man’s attempt at discipline results in abuse charge
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STAFF REPORT TPI Staff
Lake Martin
483.98 Reported on 1/17 /16 @ 8 p.m.
LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443
laceyshowell@gmail.com 5295 Highway 280, Alex City, AL
6
54708 90050 USPS Permit # 013-080
8
By MITCH SNEED Editor
One of today’s top Christian recording acts is coming to Alexander City as the Sidewalk Prophets are set perform Feb. 11 at the Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium. The Sidewalk Prophets are currently on their Prodigal Tour, a presentation that combines music, multimedia and interaction top what band member Dave Frey calls “a totally immersive experience.”
Submitted / The Outlook
“Our Prodigal Tour is something that is unique and different than anything we’ve done before,” said Frey. “We’ve produced a short film that is shown in conjunction with the music, and it has some interactive moments. We hope it provides the audience a totally immersive experience where they can leave finding something that touched them directly.” The show is sponsored by Marshall Street Baptist Church and Pastor Rick
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An attempt to discipline a child has resulted in the arrest of an Alexander City man for child abuse. Tony L. Dates, 51, of Alexander City was arrested Monday and charged with torture or willful abuse of a child after police responded to a call. Due to the relationship and the age of the victim, Alexander City Police Department Interim Chief Jay Turner said that many of the details could not be released. “Patrol responded to a call,” Turner said. “When they spoke to the victim, there were signs of abuse that resulted from disciplinary actions. They investigated it and handed it over to DHR…Between statements and physical evidence there was enough to go
See PROPHETS • Page 11
Dadeville Insurance Come see us for all your Insurance needs.
Russell Medical has completed the refinancing of its long-term debt that will enable the Alexander City hospital to take advantage of a lower interest rate and realize significant savings over the 25-year life of the loan. The 81-bed, not-for-profit, acute care hospital closed on a $31,178,500 package through Ziegler Financing Corporation last week at a percentage rate that was 1.7 percent lower than what the hospital had previously. According to a release for Ziegler, Russell Medical had approximately $30.1 million in outstanding tax-exempt bond debt with an average interest rate of 5.7 percent. The recapitalization lowered RMC’s annual debt service costs by up to $575,000. The newly closed mortgage loan through Zeigler has a 25-year term and resulted in a note rate of less than 4.0 percent, according to the release. “With this refinancing, we See RUSSELL • Page 7
See ARREST • Page 11 +
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Page 2
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Learn to manage anger before exploding at kids
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Staff
Directory Telephone: (256) 234-4281 Fax: (256) 234-6550 Website: www.alexcityoutlook.com Management Steve Baker Publisher, Ext. 218 steve.baker@alexcityoutlook.com Mitch Sneed Editor, Ext. 213 mitch.sneed@alexcityoutlook.com David Kendrick Circulation Manager, Ext. 204 david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com Lee Champion Production Manager, Ext. 220 lee.champion@alexcityoutlook.com Audra Spears Art Director, Ext. 219 audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com Betsy Iler Magazine Managing Editor, Ext. 221 betsy.iler@alexcityoutlook.com Tippy Hunter Advertising Director, Ext. 206 marketing@alexcityoutlook.com Angela Mullins Business Manager, Ext. 202 angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com Newsroom Lonna Upton Assistant Magazine Editor, Ext. 227 lonna.upton@alexcityoutlook.com Cathy Higgins Sports Editor, Ext. 228 cathy.higgins@alexcityoutlook.com
Cliff Williams Staff Writer, Ext. 212 cliff.williams@alexcityoutlook.com Alethia Russell Staff Writer/Pagination, Ext. 210 alethia.russell@alexcityoutlook.com Advertising Sales Doug Patterson Newspaper Advertising, Ext. 205 doug.patterson@alexcityoutlook.com Emily Gregg Advertising Sales, Ext. 225 emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com Donna Jones Advertising Sales, Ext. 217 donna.jones@alexcityoutlook.com Scott Hardy Advertising Sales, Ext. 208 scott.hardy@alexcityoutlook.com Tabby Edwards Advertising Sales, Ext. 232 tabby.edwards@alexcityoutlook.com Composing Darlene Johnson Composing Department, Ext. 203 darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com Hallie Holloway Composing Department, Ext. 203 hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com Circulation Linda Ewing Office Clerk, Ext. 201 linda.ewing@alexcityoutlook.com
Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. manages The Alexander City Outlook, The Dadeville Record, Lake magazine, Lake Martin Living, (USPS: 013-080, ISSN: 0738-5110) Kenneth Boone The Outlook is published five times Photography and a week, Tuesday through Saturday a commercial web mornings, by Tallapoosa Publishers, printing press. Inc., 548 Cherokee Road, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL, 35011.
Postal
Information
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Post Office Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011.
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
The Outlook
© 2011 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Reproduction of any part of any issue requires written publisher permission.
How to Obituaries can be submitted to The Outlook from funeral homes by e-mail at obits@alexSubmit cityoutlook.com or by fax at (256) 234-6550. Obituaries For more information, call (256) 234-4281.
DEAR ABBY: I am a 23-yearold woman, and I know I should have a lot more patience than I do right now. I’m happily married with two beautiful children. After work when I return home, I’m fine for the first hour or so. But if my children start to get loud or keep asking me to do something, I get extremely aggravated. My children are young and I love them, but I should be in more control of my temper toward them. I feel so bad when I lose it and shout at them. What can I do to improve this? -- SHORT FUSE IN GEORGIA DEAR SHORT FUSE: I’m glad you asked, because it is important that you learn to relieve your frustration without taking it out on your children. There are healthy ways of managing frustration without exploding. The first is to recognize that you are becoming upset. Leave the room and, if your husband is home, go for a walk
tant that you get a handle on your temper so your children won’t grow up thinking that verbal abuse is a normal way to handle their own emotions. DEAR ABBY Advice
or a short run to help you to regain your perspective. Another technique is to “stall” before reacting. Pause for a moment and say a prayer, “Please Lord, don’t let me lose my temper!” before opening your mouth. My booklet, “The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With it,” contains a number of healthy ways of dealing with frustration and other negative emotions. It can be ordered by sending your name and mailing address, plus a check or money order for $7 in U.S. funds, to Dear Abby -- Anger Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. Shipping and handling are included in the price. I hope it will be helpful to you. It’s impor-
Catherine Holley
Ms. Catherine Holley of Dadeville, Al passed away January 14, 2017 at her residence. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced later by Wright’s Funeral Home.
Mr. Ricky Thornburg 1956 - 2017 Memorial Service for Mr. Ricky Thornburg, 60, of Alexander City, will be Thursday, January 19, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Scott Jordan will officiate. Mr. Thornburg passed away on Monday, January 16, 2017. He was born on June 20, 1956 in Alexander City, Alabama to Gene “Tody” Harris and Doris Jean Harris. Thornburg was an active ALGBA member that loved spending quality time in the outdoors. He put his family and grandchildren first and they were the light of his life; along with Alabama football and racing. He is survived by his spouse, Cheryl Thornburg of Alexander City; daughters, Lindsey T. Griffin (Ben), Monica Hearn (Charles); sons, Weil Thornburg, Chris Gray; grandchildren, Benzley and Beckham Griffin, Grant Sanford, Savanah, Gage, Dylan and Devan Hearn; brothers, Steve and Dewayne Thornburg. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.radneyfuneralhome.com.
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Chase Buycks has the best seat in the house for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade Monday morning as he rode atop the shoulders of City Councilman Scott Hardy.
Public Meetings n Alexander City Board of Education meets on the third Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the board office at 375 Lee St. or local school at 5 p.m. n Alexander City Council meets on the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in the courtroom at the old city hall at 5:30 p.m. n Camp Hill Town Council meets the first and third Mondays of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6 p.m. n Community Action Agency of Chambers, Tallapoosa, Coosa will holds its regular board of directors meetings every other month at the Central Office in Dadeville. n Coosa County Board of Education holds called meetings at least once a month. n Coosa County Commission meets on the second and
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Obituaries
Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
256-329-1313
DEAR ABBY: My 25-year-old daughter suffers from Peter Pan Syndrome. Three years out of college, she wants to live an “extended dorm” lifestyle with other young men/women (and their girlfriends/boyfriends), instead of settling down and moving out with her boyfriend of two years. She says she has “a high need for affiliation” (she needs a lot of people around 24/7). But she also has a high need for change/variety and rotates roommates every two to three years. Looking for a “mini commune” in a crowded city like San Francisco is very difficult. What makes matters worse is that she also has hobbies like sewing that require a lot of space. Is there something wrong
with this lifestyle preference? And if so, how do I help her break out of it? -- WORRIED DAD IN CALIFORNIA DEAR DAD: At 25, your daughter is an adult. Many people her age live communally because it’s less costly than living independently, and San Francisco has become so expensive that it’s often their only option. If she’s already living in an “extended dorm” situation, it’s her life to live and she’ll learn lessons. If you feel compelled to offer her advice, suggest they relocate to a less expensive and crowded area, which may entail a longer commute, but with fewer roommates she will have more room for her hobbies.
A DAMS HEALTH & REHAB 1555 HILLABEE STREET • (256) 329-0847
fourth Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Coosa County Courthouse in Rockford at 9:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday and at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday. n Coosa County Industrial Development Board will hold its regularly scheduled meeting the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Commissioners’ Board Room in the courthouse in Rockford. All meetings are open to the public. n Dadeville City Council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. with a pre-meeting at 5:30 p.m. in city hall. n Daviston City Council meets the third Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at the Daviston Fire Department. n Goldville Town Council meets the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the town hall. n Goodwater City Council meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held at the Caldwell Center at 6:30 p.m. n Jackson’s Gap Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 6:30 p.m., all Jackson’s Gap citizens are encouraged to attend. n Kellyton Town Council meets on the first Tuesday of
the month at 6:30 p.m. at the community center in Kellyton. n New Site City Council meets the first and third Monday of the month at 5 p.m. in the Conference Room in the Town Hall. n Ray Water Authority meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Ray Water Authority Office. All customers are invited to attend. n Rockford Town Council meets the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in town hall at 7 p.m. n Tallapoosa County Board of Education meets on the second Monday of each month. Meetings are held in the new central office at 679 East Columbus Street, Dadeville, AL 36853. n Tallapoosa County Commission meets the second Monday of the month at 9 a.m. in the courthouse in Dadeville, with a pre-meeting also open to the public 30 minutes before each regular session. n Tallapoosa County 911 Board will meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the 911 Administrative office at 240 West Columbus Street, Dadeville. Call 825-8490 for more information. n Walnut Hill Water Authority meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited. Call 8259841 to inquire about the agenda.
SOCIAL SECURITY FAYE EDMONDSON Attorney at Law
135 N. Tallassee Street • Dadeville, AL
825-9559
No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
www.alexcityoutlook.com
The Outlook
Page 3
Brewer has special place in state’s political history
T
he passing of Governor Albert Brewer on January 2nd at 88 years old, marks the passing of an era in Alabama politics. Albert P. Brewer was a good man and a true public servant. Brewer was born in Tennessee, but his folks moved to Decatur when he was very young after his father accepted a job with the Tennessee Valley Authority. He graduated from Decatur High School with honors, then matriculated to the University of Alabama where he earned his undergraduate and law degrees. Brewer returned to Decatur to begin his law practice. Soon thereafter he was elected to the Alabama Legislature at the ripe old age of 25. He was elected without opposition three times and during his third term he became Speaker of the House. Brewer was the youngest Speaker in state history. In 1966, he beat two prominent state senators without a runoff to win the lieutenant governor’s job, which was much more powerful than it is today. During his tenure as Speaker and Lt. Governor, either George or Lurleen Wallace was Governor. Brewer was a Wallace ally. When Gov. Lurleen Wallace died of cancer after only 16 months in office, Brewer ascended to the Governor’s office.
STEVE FLOWERS Columnist
He quickly and decisively took the reins of state government and became immediately effective. His years in the legislature gave him a keen insight into the machinations of state government. He was very well liked among the legislators and senators he had worked with over the past 15 years and therefore was extremely successful with his legislative agenda. He became a working governor. Although Brewer was governor for only 33 months, he accomplished more as governor than most of his successors over the past 30 years combined. Brewer brought a low key businesslike style to the governor’s office, which was strikingly different than George Wallace’s racist flamboyant rhetoric and cronyism. In 1970, Brewer and George Wallace squared off in what is the most memorable classic and pivotal governor’s race in Alabama political history. Brewer led Wallace by a slim margin in the first primary. However, Wallace, with his political life on the line, played the race card overtly in the
runoff and defeated Brewer by a narrow margin. Most political observers believe that had Brewer won, Alabama would have joined other southern states like North Carolina and Florida who had elected progressive pro-business governors. Brewer is often referred to as Alabama’s “New South” Governor. He was a prince of a fellow and a good friend for over 50 years. I first met Governor Brewer when I was a young 13-yearold page in the State Legislature and he was Speaker of the House. My mentor was the State Representative from my home in Pike County. Mr. Gardner Bassett had been in the House for 24 years and was in his 70’s. He was training me to take his House seat once I was old enough. Mr. Gardner adored and admired the young Speaker Albert Brewer. He got Brewer and I acquainted and we became friends. Brewer would let me sit next to him in the Speaker’s box as he explained how he assigned bills to their proper committee. When Brewer became Lt. Governor in 1967, I was 15 and he made me head of the pages in the Senate. His daughters Becky and Allison served with me as Pages. Gov. Brewer spent the last 30 years of his life teaching and men-
toring law students at Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law. He was a mentor to my daughter, Ginny, while she was in law school at Cumberland, and followed her legal career as if she was his own daughter. Last January, Ginny and I ran into Gov. Brewer at a Birmingham restaurant. He was aging but still had that keen smile and twinkle in his eye. Gov. Brewer and I had remained good friends over the years and he is featured prominently in my book, Of Goats and Governors: Six Decades of Colorful Political Stories. Thus, it is appropriate that the last time I visited with him was at a book signing in Bessemer. We later had lunch together at the Bright Star. As I close this column I am looking at a photo of Gov. Brewer and me from that day that adorns the wall of my office, with his ever present smile. Albert Brewer has a special place in Alabama political history and in the hearts of many. See you next week. Steve Flowers is Alabama’s leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve may be reached at www.steveflowers.us.
Social Secu ity Ŷ Social Security Disability & SSI Ŷ Personal Injury & Accidents Ŷ Probate Civil Ŷ Uncontested Divorce
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MITCH SNEED EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X213
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EDITORIAL BOARD Steve Baker Mitch Sneed
Opinion
Our View
Greatest Show on Earth’s end is a sad reality
T
ypically this space is reserved for the newspaper’s feeling on local issues, and what we feel is in the best interest of our community. But when it was announced on Saturday that after 146 years Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus would cease operation, the news hit our staff like an elephant stepping on your toe. Without getting into the debate of the treatment of circus animals which people far more qualified than this newspaper have wrestled with for decades, our view is that it is sad to see this piece of Americana die. The circus and its two touring companies are now owned by Feld Entertainment. Saturday, executive producer Kenneth Feld issued a statement said that declining ticket sales that resulted from elephants being phased out of the shows played a role in the decision to halt operations in May. “This, coupled with high operating costs, made the circus an unsustainable business for the company,” the statement said. “The circus and its people have continually been a source of inspiration and joy to my family and me. It’s a different model that we can’t see how it works in today’s world to justify and maintain an affordable ticket price.” Sometimes financial reality just plain stinks. The circus has been a part of the lives of Americans for more than 14 decades. The joy that children have taken away from trips to venues across the country cannot be measured. The memory of an entire family loaded into a station wagon making the trek from Smalltown USA to a big city venue to see clowns pile out of cars, men being shot from cannons and gravity defied by countless performers is one that almost everyone reading this has filed away in their heart and mind. Popcorn, peanuts, cotton candy and the music that came with the “Greatest Show on Earth” was not ever supposed to end. We say it’s a shame that in today’s world family fun is not financially viable and that future generations will not be able to experience that feeling.
Know Your
Officials
T.C. Coley represents District 1, including half of Coley Creek, the Andrew Jackson subdivision, the southern part of Indian Hill, North Central Avenue, part of Pearson’s Chapel Road, the Northside community and portion of Spring Hill T.C. Coley community. His phone number is 256-212-9316. His address is 2316 North Central Avenue, Kellyton. Steve Robinson represents District 2, which includes the southern part of Alexander City, the Cedar Creek area, Ourtown and Willow Point. His phone number is 256-654-0047. His Steve Robinson address is 1225 Warren Circle, Alexander City. John McKelvey represents District 3, \\vwhich includes Jackson’s Gap, Hackneyville, New Site and Daviston. His phone number is 256-794-4405. His address is 1285 Freeman Road, Dadeville.
John McKelvey
Emma Jean Thweatt represents District 4, which includes Dadeville, Pace’s Point, northern Camp Hill, Buttston, Dudleyville and part of Eagle Creek. Her daytime phone number is 256-825-6914 and her evening phone number is 256-825-4207. Emma Jean Thweatt Her address is 585 Brookwood Circle, Dadeville. George Carleton Jr. represents District 5, which includes southern Camp Hill, Red Ridge, Walnut Hill, Union and Pleasant Ridge. His address is 630 Turner Road Road, Dadeville.
George Carleton Jr.
L
Outlook The
www.alexcityoutlook.com
Page 4
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
You need to know your pets
ast week, Abbey, my cat, was driving me crazy. She started urinating all over my house as if she was a four year old boy who’d just discovered that the world was his urinal, only the world was my house. I tried to figure out what it was, so I cleaned out her litter box more often than usual and moved her food, too. I did everything I could but to no avail. I’d had enough. I like having a fresh-smelling, clean house. I could stand no more, so I finally took a page out of Fred Flintstone’s book, took her to the back door, and dropped her on the back porch. That lasted all of two minutes before I brought her back inside. I worried about her too much. When dropped, cats always land on their feet. Twenty months ago, she landed on her feet and landed with me. I honestly wasn’t sure if I was going to keep her or not. I’d never had a cat and Ruby, my dog, had never been around one. Ruby had dibs on my house, but if they got along well, I was all for it. For the first 24-48 hours, I kept them separated, solely as a safety precaution. In hindsight, the gradual integration likely wasn’t necessary; they get along better than Fred and Barney. By her erratic behavior, poor Abbey was trying to tell me something; I just didn’t know it at the time.
JODY FULLER Columnist
I mentioned my dilemma on Facebook, and all the cat ladies of the world converged on my page to tell me that she most likely had a UTI—the dreaded urinary tract infection. I let it go on for a couple of more days, because I just didn’t know any better. I also hadn’t noticed her doing her business either, so I thought that maybe she was showing signs of improvement. Then, one day I caught her doing her thing and noticed traces of blood, so I immediately took her to the vet. I didn’t want to take her to the vet, because that meant a car ride. I’ve had a lot of miserable experiences in my life, but riding in a car with a cat tops them all. I spent almost three years in Iraq, and I’m fine, but three minutes in a car with a cat almost did me in. I’m glad I bit the bullet and took her. She spent the weekend there, while Ruby and I got the house back in order. We missed her sorely. Although Ruby is a female, Abbey is clearly the lady of the house. She needs to finish her bottle of antibiotics, but she’s like a new cat. I
felt bad that I was ever angry at her. She’s a cat and can’t talk, although she does try to at times. She was trying to tell me something was wrong; I just wasn’t listening. I used to get a kick out of Chyna, my black lab of 15 years, riding her invisible motorcycle on the carpet around the living room. I thought it was hilarious, only to find out she was trying to tell me something. Her booty was itching, and her anal glands needed expressing. Nobody likes an itchy anything. I felt bad for laughing, but once I found out, I had them expressed regularly. Ruby gets hers done regularly, too, so she will most likely never experience the displeasure of riding an invisible motorcycle. Our pets are our babies, and they rely on us for just about everything. If they do something out of the norm, it most likely means they are trying to tell us something, so when they do, take notice and get them to your vet immediately. If you don’t, I hope you ride your invisible motorcycle until you do. Jody Fuller is a comic, speaker, writer and soldier with three tours of duty in Iraq. He is also a lifetime stutterer. He can be reached at jody@jodyfuller.com. For more information, please visit www.jodyfuller.com.
Today’s
Quote
“Love the moment and the energy of that moment will spread beyond all boundaries.” – Corita Kent
Today’s
Scripture
“He calmed the storm to a whisper and stilled the waves.” – Psalm 107:29
alexcityoutlook.com
Daily Poll Tuesday Question: Do you think the ‘failing school list’ was an accurate representation of our state’s education system?
No – 7 Yes – 7
Wednesday’s question: Will you be tuning in to the inauguration?
To participate in this daily poll, log on each day to www.alexcityoutlook.com and vote. Find out the vote totals in the next edition of The Outlook and see if your vote swayed the results.
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Letter to the Editor
Reader opposes former police chief’s dismissal
Dear Editor, Mr. Willie George Robinson is a wonderful Christian man. A man born in Alex City, finished school here and went on to become a public servant in law, committing himself for change. In order to do that was to join the best and that was what he did. He worked under the great leadership of Mr. Ennis Berry and the late Mr. James Ware. Leadership is hard and important and he took it very serious. When the first opportunity came by, the city overlooked him and we know why. So they went out and got a chief. Several years later the opportunity came around they selected him and he was doing a great job. He was committed to change. Willie George wanted to unify the city, bring them together as a whole. He started his officers off by starting a friendly walk through the neighborhood knocking on doors introducing themselves and telling the people they are there if they need them. I loved what he was doing. It inspired me to join the Alex City Public Safety Academy. Police officers are supposed have each other’s backs. Here we see officers pretending to
be real at what they do and that is scary. We have to really be concerned about our children. No one came to Willie George’s defense. Until you start thinking for yourself, this city is going to continue to be divided because everyone outside is telling you wrong. When you have a new city councilman say the reason he can’t vote for Mr. Robinson is because he promised the people that elected him that if he wins he will get rid of all the past administration. This was Mr. Eric Brown. When you come in all pumped up you start breaking laws and this is where I come in. They went in closed door discussions about the chief and that was a violation of the Open Meetings Act. It took them 15 minutes to tarnish a man’s life. This city voted to fire Mr. Willie George Robinson in a courtroom that was segregated black on one side, white on the other. They let him know he was that change alone. I say this, we are filing a claim and taking action until Alex City decides they have had enough of peo-
ple using vendettas against one another and put the real people in that want to do the right thing as a whole. No one wants want to come here to live and people in office can’t get along. All we’re known for is to hurt the one that is doing the best job. But when people’s rights are violated and there was no due process, we are there taking action. The law is there for a reason. It is a tool that says stop, and when you don’t, the city will pay for your wildness to lead. The city will have to come together. You see the mess the city is in because some have tried this moving part of the city and leaving the rest behind. They see this doesn’t work, but they will figure it out. When you have a position, work it fairly and stay true to the people. When you leave, people can see what you did when you were there. But when you did nothing for God’s people he will remember you. He wants you to be fair in all things that is what makes a good leader. Arlean Wyckoff Alexander City
Dean Family expresses gratitude for community support Dear Editor, During our greatest time of need, many of you came to our aide in more ways than one. God has poured out his love onto us through you. We can not put into words how much we appreciate each donation, every beautiful flower, wonderful food and every person who was a shoulder to cry on. As our grandfather Kennedy said,
“The shortest verse in the bible states Jesus wept.” Therefore it’s ok for us to weep for Alex as well. But only through the strength of God will we get through this. Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” We want to give a special thank you to Brother Tony Harris for such a beautiful
service and to the wonderful NJROTC for being so strong and for honoring Alex in such a graceful way. Again, there aren’t enough words to express our gratitude to each one of you. The Dean Family Alexander City
The subscription rate is $136.00 per year in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties and $177.99 outside the area. Periodicals paid at Alexander City, AL. Newspapers are available at 100 news racks in our area at 50 cents for The Outlook and 50 cents for The Record. We would love to deliver a paper to your door. Call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281, Ext. 204 or e-mail david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook. com.
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The Outlook
We should all remember responsible pet ownership is important
W
hat a nice break from the freezing cold to have spring-like weather this week. The ground being soft from past rains made a little yardwork an enjoyable job. We got so far behind with the work around our place. Mostly due to Ron having two shoulder surgeries over the past 14 months requiring long recovery and therapy time. Happy Birthday to our local fashion and television model Kathi Odom, celebrating her special day Jan. 23. Kathi is in that small percentage of people who look good and have a good heart as well. She and husband Dr. Sonny Odom are such a matched pair. Rea Cord, director of the Wetumpka Humane Shelter, has reported the numbers for 2016 animal intake. The shelter took in a total of 4,124.
This of course is far too many but the good thing is it was 170 less than 2015. Of these 4124, sadly 1490 were surrendered by their owners and 2633 were taken in as strays from citizens and animal control officers. Unfortunately, 44 percent of the found dogs and 63 percent of the cats were under six months old. This shows the importance of spaying and neutering by loving owners before the age of six months when they will reproduce. Remember every unwanted litter will unnecessarily add to the growing numbers of pet over-population. It’s time for pet owners to really take the responsibility of animal owning seriously and get pets ‘fixed.’, Which is good for the animal. And it really makes them happier pets and less likely to run off.
ROSIE NIXBURG NEWS
Those six months come around quickly. Then before you know it, your puppy or kitten is itself becoming a mother at a far too young age. Unless you plan to keep all the offspring as playmates. Then you must get them fixed and so it goes on and on. Now that the warmer days will be here to stay very soon, it’s time to think about pest control for dogs. Worming and flea control is so easy with one tablet monthly from vets. This is the right thing to do as we are the keepers of all God’s animals. Having pets is like having children and we should
do our very best for them providing food, shelter and lots of love. I certainly don’t mean to come across cranky on this one, but the animals cannot speak for themselves so I must do my part to help. You have seen the sad ads on television about mistreated animals. Just go to visit with any shelter and if your heart doesn’t break for them, search your heart and soul. Since Dec. 26, Rea Cord reports the shelter has taken in 58 puppies, and 13 kittens. Most being dumped on the roadway or discovered in neighborhoods. Remember in the old days, you just didn’t see this and shelters had few for adoption. The fifth dog added to our family, ‘Gus’ is a small foxy looking fellow with big upright ears, black with white feet and loving personality.
Gus was found and taken to the shelter in very poor shape being covered with so many fleas that he had scratched off and lost large clumps of his hair. The hair he had left was barely there. It was instant love for us and Gus. He had been treated and kept with puppies due to his size and was a happy dog. Gus has been in our family seven months. He is loving with us and his siblings, even playfights with Bama, the big dog. Plus, Gus has lots of soft, shiny black hair and my heart. Until next week, keep smiling. Rosie Morgan is a community columnist for The Outlook. She is a resident of Nixburg and writes about the events and people of the Equality and Nixburg areas.
Picking up where we left off in countdown of 2016
T
he Alexander City Parks and Recreation 50+ starts out the New Year with the recapping of 2016. We continue this week with the standout memories of 2016 and we left off in the last article with the standout memories during month of May. Let’s bring back the journey of the June Raptor Center group trip where Roger Pasley said that trip was one he won’t forget and Lillian pick-up a pricey bird feather of 5,000 or jail time in which she quickly put back. That trip featured the bus breaking down, van shuttling service from the Raptor Center to the Shrimp Basket and taxi shuttling service from the restaurant to the mall were we waited for the repair of the bus. ACPR 50+ Group Aquatic Exercise classes began in June. Bud and Martha Champion never missed a class! Instructor, Corley Holt taught 67 classes for the participants. Weight loss, increased energy and strength were experienced by those who attended regularly. The Bunco group had two fun themed gamed nights
CORLEY HOLT Senior Moments
that summer. One featured a Hawaiian theme and the other was a Western. We also had Potluck & Bingo during June 20 at the Activity Center and it was finger licking good! Cornbread, coleslaw and some of the best dishes to choose from was exactly what we had on a group trip that summer too at Cock of the Walk. Tom Howard said he was stuffed and if he said that then you know we had a mighty fine meal. In August we began the new Day Travel Group ticket program. It has been a bit of adjustment for us all, but we have been working the kinks out along the way. Mary Roberts, Diane Smelly, Rebecca Northington and Lillian Howard had a stomping good time at the Grape Stomp
FIRST
Festival in September. We also took a trip back to the Raptor Center and Reba Orr got to go for an ambulance ride on that Raptor trip. The ACPR 50+ expresses many thanks again to those who helped contribute in any way during the 2016 Oktoberfest Senior Sweet Shop and the 5K. The Fundraiser group looked awesome in their blue shirts with the American Flag on the back. The Welcome Back Monthly Luncheon event took place on October 19. During this month, we also took group trips to visit the lovely Jasmine Hill. Had a group of 39 go to Gatlinburg at the beginning of November and Bud’s dream came true by riding the biggest Ferris wheel twice! We will pick back up in next week’s column with the final recap of 2016. Until next time, keep a smile on your face and love in the heart. Holt writes about the events and people of the Alexander City Parks and Recreation Department’s 50 + Club.
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CommunityCalendar Need Insurance? Call me.
Today is
January 18, 2017 Today’s Events
OLLI GENERAL MEMBERSHIP
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
The Outlook
MEETING: The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Auburn is hosting a winter term 2017 general membership meeting Wednesday, Jan. 18 at 10 a.m. with an information fair from 8:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. at Clarion Inn and Suites on South College Street in Auburn. For more
Submit calendar items:
Participate in your Outlook by calling 256-234-4281, faxing them to 256-234-6550, sending your event to calendar@alexcityoutlook.com or logging on to http://www.alexcityoutlook.com/. information call 334-844-5100 of visit www.olliatauburn.org.
Today’s Birthdays
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Cliff Williams / The Outlook
New Site Town Council member Bree Walton asks a question during Tuesday evening’s meeting. The council tackled several big issues. For a full report on the meeting pick up Thursday’s Outlook.
January 19
COMMUNITY WELLNESS MEETING: PATH (Prosperity Again Thru Health) Lake Martin and PATH FINDERS (For Individuals Needing Dementia Education, Resources and Support) will host their monthly Community Wellness Meeting on Thursday, Jan. 19, at noon in the Durbin Clinic Conference Room, 1101 Cherokee Road, Alexander City.
February 4
January 20
SPEECH AND HEARING CLINIC: Auburn University NSSLHA and SAA are having a free speech and hearing screening Friday, Jan. 20 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary. All children must be accompanied by parent(s) or legal guardian(s). Services will be provided by the Auburn University Speech and Hearing Clinic Room 1199 Haley Center, Auburn University 36849-5232.
January 21
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FLEA MARKET: Sistas for a Cause are hosting a flea market Jan. 21 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cooper Community Center. Vendors are needed. Spaces are $20 and include a table. Please call 256-329-6799 for more information. TRADE DAY: Bibb Graves School Alumni Monthly Trade Day in Millerville on Highway 9 between Ashland and Goodwater will be held on Jan. 21 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vendors are inside the school.
January 22
HISTORICAL SOCIETY: The Tallapoosee Historical Society will hold its quarterly meeting on Sunday, Jan. 22 at 2 p.m. The meeting will be held at Beulah Baptist Church, 5891 Lovelady Road, Dadeville, AL. Troy Turner, Editor of Opelika-Auburn News will be the speaker. There is no admission and the public is invited.
January 23
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Dr. Mark Conversino will be speaking to Horizons Unlimited Jan. 23 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. The winter program runs through Feb. 27. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple each semester. MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION: The first meeting in 2017 of the Alexander City Area Ministerial Association will be Monday, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Marshall Street Church of God. New officers will propose and explain procedures and possible events for the association to sponsor. News from churches will be shared. There will be time for intercessory prayer. All Christian minister are invited. For more information contact Tony Harris at 256794-2969, vice president Rick Levell at 256-234-3180 or interim secretary Bill Middlebrooks at 256-234-3371.
January 28
PASTORS MEETING: Take the City Lake Martin is providing a meal to all local pastors, ministry leaders and city leaders Jan. 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the cabin in the Sportsplex. For more information call 256-307-8099. BINGO NIGHT: Bibb Graves High School Alumni and Friends in Millerville will have Family Game Night Bingo from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28 . Begin with hot dogs, pizza, chips, and soft drinks.
January 29
Call 256-234-4281 or stop by our ofÚce at 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL
January 30
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Dr. Dr. Paul Harris will be speaking to Horizons Unlimited Jan. 30 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. The winter program runs through Feb. 27. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple each semester.
YOUTH NIGHT: Sandy Creek Baptist Church in Camp Hill is hosting Youth Night Jan. 29 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. There will be programs for children of all ages and refreshments will be served.
MICHAEL TWITTY: The Mellow Valley High School Alumni and Friends Association is Michael Twitty, son of Conway Twitty, Sat. Feb. 4 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. along with Kevin Moon and Dianne Sherril. General admission tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Kowaliga Country, Hill’s Auto in Linveville, Costley’s Store in Mellow Valley or by calling 256-749-3568.
February 5
PASTOR’S ANNIVERSARY: New Harmony Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating the 8th pastor’s anniversary of Rev. and Sister Melvin C. Kelley, Jr. Sunday, Feb. 5 at 2:30 p.m. Guest Minister is Rev. Cameron R. Thomas of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Cropwell.
February 6
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Dr. Bill Deutsch will be speaking to Horizons Unlimited Feb. 6 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. The winter program runs through Feb. 27. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple each semester.
February 7
USHER MEETING: Early Rose is District Center is hosting a district usher meeting Tuesday, Feb. 7 at 5 p.m.
February 11
MISS WINTER: The 2017 Miss Winter Pageant will be Feb. 11 at 2 p.m. at the Dadeville High School Auditorium. Rehearsals will take place Friday, Feb. 10 at 5 p.m. Applications may be picked up at Little Lambs and Ivy Day School or by emailing Sherri Williams at misswinterpageant@gmail. com. There will be a Baby Miss, Tiny Miss, Little Miss, Junior Miss, Teen Miss, Miss, Elite Miss and Miss Winter Princess. TRASH WALK: The February PATH Trash Walk will meet at Dirt Road Gourmet located on Highway 229 near Martin Dam on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 9 a.m. Volunteers can arrive as early as 8 a.m. and enjoy coffee and a sampling of sausage & grits provided by Dirt Road Gourmet owners Jackie & Reuben Thornton. At the conclusion of the walk the volunteers will drop filled bags of trash at Dirt Road Gourmet and enjoy a cookout hosted by the Thornton’s. This annual event has become one of the most successful area cleanups each year with as many as 50 volunteers participating. For additional information contact John Thompson at lmra@lmra.info.
February 13
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Frances Robb will be speaking to Horizons Unlimited Feb. 13 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. The winter program runs through Feb. 27. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple each semester.
February 18
CLAY CLASSIC: The Ronald E Koon Sporting Clay Classic is in its 11th year of providing a fun filled day for avid shooters to help support our local Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area. The event will be held at
the Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Club in Montgomery, Alabama starting at9 a.m. on Feb. 18, 2017. Team of four is $600. Team of two is $300 and a one-man team $100. Lunch, shells, goodie bags and door prizes given to each participant Call 256-234-4757 to sign up today or email bgcreynolds@ gmail.com
February 20
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Daphne Simpkins will be speaking to Horizons Unlimited Feb. 20 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. The winter program runs through Feb. 27. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple each semester.
February 24-26
COMMUNITY THEATRE: The Sylacauga Community Playhouse will present “You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. and Feb. 25 and 26 at 2 p.m. at the Sylacauga High School Auditorium. Cost is $15 in advance and $18 at the door. For more information call 256-369-3003.
•Alexander City Outlook •Dadeville Record •Wetumpka Herald •Eclectic Observer •Tallassee Tribune
256.234.4281
The Learning Tree Helping Children Learn and Grow
The Learning Tree, Inc. is Accepting Applications for Weekend Shifts in Direct Care. Applications can be picked up at: 101 S. Dubois Street Tallassee, AL 36078 Or contact Brinda Bell (334) 252-0025, Ext. 101 Email: bbell@learning-tree.org
February 27
HORIZONS UNLIMITED: Katie Simpkins will be speaking to Horizons Unlimited Feb. 27 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education. The winter program runs through Feb. 27. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple each semester.
April 22-30
COMMUNITY THEATRE: The Sylacauga Community Playhouse will present “The Miracle Worker” April 21 at 6:30 p.m., April 22 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., April 23 at 2 p.m., April 28 at 6:30 p.m. April 29 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. and April 30 at 2. p.m. at the B.B. Comer High School Auditorium. Cost is $15 in advance and $18 at the door. For more information call 256369-3003.
Ongoing Events RECYCLING: The Alexander City Recycling Facility is located at the Public Works Department at 824 Railey Road. All materials should be dropped off behind the green storage shed on the Public Works lot. The facility is always open for unassisted drop off. Assistance with drop off is available between 7:00 am until 3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Please call 256-409-2020 for more information. WOMEN’S MEETING: Victory Temple Holiness Church in Dadeville is hosting a women’s meeting the first Sunday of every month. Men are invited too. AWANA: Wayside Baptist Church hosts Awana Sundays from 4:40 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for ages three to high school. For more information contact George Gardin, student minister, at 864-580-0343. VOLUNTEER: Southern Care Hospice is seeking volunteers. Please call Lizz Gillenwaters at 256-234-1134 or 256-749-3717 for more information. WOMAN MEETING: Every first Sunday, Victory Temple Holiness Church hosts a women’s meeting, at 237 Aster St. in Dadeville. Everyone is invited. The meeting starts at 2 p.m. READY TO WORK: Ready to Work is a FREE jobs skills training program offered at Central Alabama Community College Career Center. Classes meet Monday through Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Completion of the program depends on the skill level of the individual. For more information contact Elaine Balint, instructor, at 256-215-4496 (leave message) or ebalint@cacc.edu.
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• Alexander City Outlook • Dadeville Record • Wetumpka Herald • Eclectic Observer • Tallassee Tribune
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
The Outlook
Page 7
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Inauguration
continued from page 1
“It was overwhelming,” Benton said. “The friend who was with me has a friend in Congress who had secured us tickets. We were able to sit on the front row and attended several of the balls following the ceremony. “Of course that was well before 9-11 and security wasn’t as it is today. You were able to come and go freely through the federal buildings and landmarks. That access, looking back now, offered an up-close look that is rare today.” She said that Tuesday, January 20, 2009 was a day that still stands out as possibly the greatest political experience she has ever enjoyed. It was the day that Barack Obama was sworn in as the 44th president if the United States, the first African-American to be elected to the office. Benton said she felt a lot more emotion and adrenaline during that ceremony than she did during Clinton’s inauguration because of the historical significance of Obama’s presidency. A group of four Alexander City residents including Benton, her husband The Rev. David Benton, Annie Kendrick, The Rev. Jessie Mayes and his wife Mary Mayes as well as 34 others boarded a bus in Lanett en route to the history-making event. The group arrived at the National
Mall at 6 a.m. Tuesday morning. “To be there among the sea of people and experience that hush that fell over the crowd as scriptures were read and the oath was administered was just awesome,” Benton said. “You just knew that we had lived long enough to see something we often thought would not happen in out lifetime. It’s a memory that I will carry with me and be able to share with grandchildren forever.” She said that four years ago the feeling was much the same as she was watching Obama get a chance to complete a vision that he started. “Being there together, people of all walks of life – there for one common purpose – gave you a feeling of hope,” Benton said. “I think that is a feeling that everyone should experience as some point in their lifetime.” Benton’s family has owned Benton’s Beauty Supply for more than a decade and her husband David now pastors a church in the Prattville area. Even though she has a lot of her plate, she said she has continued t work to make sure people are part of the process that she holds so dear. “I still try to be on the ground fighting for awareness,” Benton said. “Today we are trying to get the message out that you
Cliff Williams / The Outlook
Liz Benton looks over memorabilia from her three trips to inaugurations.
have to be part of the process to make a difference. You have to register to vote and exercise that by going to the polls. If there is one thing that I took from the
Russell
inaugurations that I attended it is that the vote is important. We should never forget that.”
continued from page 1
were able to significantly lower our debt service which will provide a solid foundation for Russell Medical’s future growth in the ever-changing healthcare environment,” said Russell Medical CEO Jim Peace. “The Ziegler team did a great job helping us navigate the HUD process.” Russell Medical offers a wide variety of services to the community including, but not limited to, birthing services, a cancer center, cardiology, cardio-pulmonary services, emergency department, ICU/step-down unit, oncology, pediatrics, pharmacy, physical therapy, a sleep center, surgical services, total fitness services, a women’s center, wound care and hyperbaric medicine. Russell Medical Center is the only provider of acute care services in Alexander City and currently captures approximately 45 percent of all inpatient services in its primary market area.
Russell Medical Chief Financial Officer Matt Fisher said the ability to lock in the better rate made the move a great one for the facility. “Through the refinancing with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Russell Medical was able to take advantage of the low interest rate environment and lock-in a rate for 25 years,” Fisher said. “This lower interest rate will save Russell Medical a significant amount of money in debt service over the life of the loan that will be used to reinvest in new equipment and capital upgrades. “After undergoing a rigorous selection process, Russell Medical was among only a select number of organizations chosen by HUD to participate in this refinancing program. This is a testament to not only the history of the organization but also to the leadership of the board, the medical staff and employees, and the support of our community.”
Ziegler Financing Corporation’s dedicated team of FHA-insured financing professionals serves for-profit, not-for-profit and community-based organizations to deliver high-leveraged, low-cost, fixed-rate debt through FHA-insured financing programs, according to the company’s release. “It has been a pleasure working with the Russell Medical Center organization and we were impressed with the broad array of services offered in a smaller market,” said Ziegler Financing Corporation President Bill Mulligan. “This refinancing represents the second hospital in Alabama ZFC has financed using the Section 242/223(f) program which was introduced a few years ago.”
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Wishing a happy new year for everyone and all dogs with no home of their own. Please consider adoption. Save your Purina weight circles and drop them off or mail them to Rescue K911 P.O. Box 862 Auburn, AL 36831. They all help & add up fast. Thank you for helping the dogs & cats without a home of their own. This ad is sponsored by Wayside Animal Hospital, Dr. Susan Martin, 256-329-9900. Spay/neuter assistance is available from RESCUE K9-1-1, Wayside Animal Hospital 256-329-9900 or Lake Martin Humane Society 256-234-5533.
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CATHY HIGGINS SPORTS EDITOR (256) 234-4281 X228
sports@alexcityoutlook.com
Page 8
Wednesday, January 18, 2017
www.alexcityoutlook.com
ANDY GRAHAM Columnist
Auburn in the market for a new OC
I
t was announced last week that Auburn offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee would be leaving the Plains to take the same position at the University of Connecticut. In a normal profession, it wouldn’t make any logical sense to voluntarily take the same position at a far less prestigious company for significantly less money. However, coaching college football is not a normal profession. There are actually lots of sensible reasons why coaches move from one place to another. One, the path to becoming a head coach usually involves coaching different teams in different conferences to prove your versatility. See Will Muschamp. Two, sometimes assistant coaches can be inextricably linked to their head coaches and simply need to leave the nest and fly alone. Three, it always looks much better to take another job (no matter where it is) and leave voluntarily before being asked to do so. I think it was a case of all three for Lashlee and I also think the move was mutually beneficial for both parties. Rhett Lashlee has been Auburn’s OC since 2013, but he was only given “complete” (I put that in quotes because no one truly knows how complete it actually was) control beginning this season before the LSU game. Coincidentally or not coincidentally, the Tigers went on a six-game winning streak. Whatever your opinion of Lashlee is, he has to get some credit for the turnaround in the offense. Auburn also lost three of its last four games down the stretch and looked ugly doing it. Of course, QB Sean White and RB Kamryn Pettway were injured, but I suppose Lashlee deserves some of the blame as well for no ability to adjust. Then again, some insiders say Gus Malzahn started becoming more involved about the time the offense went into the tank. Who knows for sure? All I know is things were noticeably tense on the sideline during the Sugar Bowl and it was a disaster. A change of some kind needed to be made. The interesting question now is who was the real problem. If it was Rhett, Auburn will hopefully upgrade and be better next season. If it was Gus, UConn probably got a good OC and the Tigers will be looking for a new head coach next season. I really hope Lashlee does well and goes on to have a terrific career. I also hope Gus Malzahn is smart enough and savvy enough to bring in the best possible coordinator as his replacement. I won’t run down the names that get thrown around because it’s all speculation, but I’m personally looking for a specific quality. As I’ve repeatedly said, Auburn needs a more sophisticated and potent passing attack. Malzahn desperately needs to hire someone with a history of quarterback development and innovative passing concepts. Auburn OL coach Herb Hand was co-offensive coordinator with Malzahn at Tulsa. There might be a temptation to go that route, but I believe it would be a mistake. Gus Malzahn was once known for his innovation and imagination. Now he’s known for his inane game plan against Clemson and bizarre facial expressions on the sideline. Auburn needs a breath of fresh air to invigorate the offense. Gus, take your time and make a good decision. No pressure. It’s not like your job depends on it. … Oh wait. Andy Graham writes a regular sports column for Tallapoosa Publishers.
Triple threat Wildcat BRHS senior Timmy Lawson has spent a lifetime excelling at football, basketball and baseball By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
Benjamin Russell senior Timmy Lawson is definitely making the most of his final year as a Wildcats athlete. Right now Lawson is burning up the hardwood as a small guard for the Ben Russell varsity boys basketball team by averaging more than 11 points each game. “He’s been a good senior leader for us this year,” said BRHS varsity boys basketball head coach Jeff Hines. “He’s playing pretty good basketball for us right now.” But back in the fall, Lawson tore up the gridiron too. As a defensive back for the BRHS varsity boys football team he was a two-way starter who could play anywhere on the field, had 42 solo tackles, 13 assists, an interception and a forced fumble. Lawson’s exploits earned him a place on the 2016 Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All-Area Football Team. But that’s not all. Once basketball season is over, Lawson will trade hitting the hardwood for rounding the bases for the Wildcats. “Our first baseball game is Feb. 20,” Lawson said. But because baseball practice has already started, Lawson will have to wait until basketball season is over before heading out onto the field. “I’ll start sometime in February,” the 5 foot, 11 inch, 170-pound senior said. That certainly seems like a lot to juggle. But for Lawson, transitioning from one sport to another is second nature. “I’ve been doing it all my life,” he said. “I love playing different sports. I’ve got love for all three of the sports I play. Since I was 8 years old I’ve been playing all three of them.” Lawson’s love for football, basketball and baseball are equal, with no one standing out. “They’re all my favorite,” he said. “It just wouldn’t feel right if I just played one and stopped playing the other two.” Still, it took a little while for Lawson to settle into his final basketball season. “I kind of feel that way,” he said. “Coming off the football season I had a slow start, I know I did. Now I’m just getting the hang of it.” Hines, who has coached Lawson since he was a freshman,
Cory Diaz / The Outlook
Above, in Benjamin Russell’s basketball game at Wetumpka last week, senior Timmy Lawson battles the Indians for control of the ball. Below left, in the Wildcats football game against Helena in October, Lawson picks up yardage after taking the snap. Below right, Lawson played short stop on the BRHS baseball team last year and will return next month.
File / The Outlook
agrees. “He’s doing a lot of good things for us right now,” he said. Lawson’s passion as a triplethreat athlete actually runs in the family. He’s following in the footsteps of his father, Timmy Lawson Sr., who excelled at multiple sports at Ben Russell in the mid-1990s. Lawson’s father was named to All-State in Football and Basketball his own senior season and was a standout at QB, WR, DB and return specialist. Although that kind of influence can be inspiring, it can also be a tough act to follow. “One thing Timmy’s had to do his whole career at Russell is living in the shadow of his dad,” Hines said. “And I think he’s handled it extremely well.” In fact, Hines believes Lawson has successfully stepped out of
that shadow. “He’s become his own person,” the coach said. Standing on his own, Lawson is weighing his options being an athlete at the collegiate level. In doing so, he’s having to think about paring down to just one sport. “It’s mainly football or baseball,” Lawson said. The senior is considering all of his options when selecting which of those two sports to play at the collegiate level. “I’m just keeping all the doors open,” said Lawson, who plans to study physical therapy. “If somebody comes for basketball, I’m open to talk to them.” But after a lifetime of changing sports with the season, the idea of settling on just one is not easy to digest.
“It’s like being stuck between a rock and a hard place,” Lawson said. That’s why choosing both the school and the sport is so important. “It’s got to be the right fit,” Hines said. “He’s not blessed with a lot of height but he is blessed with a lot of God-given athletic ability. So it will have to be the right situation.” It’s a situation Lawson plans to embrace when the time comes. “Now I’ll have more time to focus just on one sport,” he said. “That’s how I look at it.” In the meantime, Lawson is looking to make his final year at Benjamin Russell his best. “It’s my home,” he said. “I just want to go out and be remembered as no other.”
BRHS grapplers defeat Wetumpka in final home match By CATHY HIGGINS Sports Editor
The Benjamin Russell varsity wrestling team won its final home match of the season Tuesday as the Wildcats defeated Wetumpka by a score of 39-24. Two Wildcats won their individual matches in the second period. In the 145-pound class, BRHS junior Brooks Parker defeated Mason Blackwell after stalling and an escape. In the 170-pound division, BRHS junior Connor Burk won over Zane Mason with a pin. Two Wildcats won their matches in the third period. In the 132pound class, BRHS sophomore Ryan Spradley defeated Kaleb Jones with a near fall. In the 138pound division, BRHS senior Saxon Coker won over Drew Stroh with a pin. On Saturday the Wildcats took second place in the Gold Bracket Results round of the 2017 Patriots Duals at Homewood. In the 106-pound class, BRHS freshman Bobby Charsha defeated Kyler Adams in a reversal in the second 30-second overtime. Two Wildcats also won their
Cathy Higgins / The Outlook
In the BRHS wrestling home match against Wetumpka Tuesday, junior Ryan Spradley pins Kaleb Jones of Wetumpka in the 132-pound class.
matches with Wetumpka forfeits. They were BRHS junior Jy Harvey in the 152-pound class and freshman Zay Hunter in the 160pound division. Three Wildcats also lost their matches. In the 195-pound class, BRHS junior Kraig Ambercrombie lost in the third period with a pin. In the 220-pound division, BRHS eighth grader Damien Lawry lost in the third period with a takedown. In the 285-pound class, BRHS freshman Curtis Norris lost in the first period with a pin. BRHS also forfeited matches in the 113-pound, 120-pound and
126-pound divisions. Despite the win, Benjamin Russell varsity wrestling head coach Danny Hall believes there’s room for his team to improve. “Everything went well tonight,” he said after the match. “We’ve still got some young guys competing in heavier-weight classes, which means they see a lot of upper classmen.” Hall believes those younger athletes need to work on their focus. “What’s important is they stay focused on what we’ve been preaching all year, which is process driven, don’t be outcome
driven,” the coach said. “If you start dwelling on wins and losses and thinking about the outcome of the match instead of being focused on what you need to do in the match to beat that kid, if you focus on doing what you need to do during practice to get that in — focus on the process — then things are going to start changing in their favor.” Nonetheless, Tuesday’s outcome worked out in the Wildcats’ favor. That win came after BRHS came in second place at this weekend’s Patriot Duals in Birmingham. Ben Russell was among eight schools to take part in the Patriot Duals over the weekend as the Wildcats took runner up after losing to Vestavia Hills 63-12. The duals began in a pool round, with the Wildcats taking first place in Pool A after defeating Homewood 48-27 in round 1. In round 2 the Wildcats won over Helena 45-31. BRHS then defeated Pelham 54-21 in round 3. The Wildcats next head to Mortimer Jordan on Friday, Jan. 27, and Saturday, Jan. 28, for the Mortimer Jordan Invitational.
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UA study finds fatal crashes in Alabama increased in 2016 STAFF REPORT University of Alabama Student Research
Deaths from the state’s traffic crashes in 2016 increased by nearly a quarter from 2015, according to a recent study of data by researchers at The University of Alabama. Critical causes of more traffic fatalities include increased speeds, lack of safety belts and more distracted drivers as well as pedestrians, according to the analysis of crash reports statewide. Although final numbers for 2016 are not yet official, the count to date is 1,058 traffic fatalities in Alabama through the end of 2016, which is 24.6 percent more than the 849 people who died in traffic crashes in 2015, according to state crash records. Total traffic collisions, however, increased only slightly. There were 149,339 crashes in 2015 and 152,532 in 2016, an increase of 2.1 percent. “That this increase was less than one tenth that of the fatalities indicates that there are issues on our highways that need to specifically address the fatality problem,” said Dr. David Brown, a research associate at the UA Center for Advanced Public Safety. Brown directed the study using the Critical Analysis Reporting Environment, or CARE, system that enabled researchers at CAPS to isolate the increases found in various crash record attributes to isolate the
major causes of the increase in traffic fatalities. “A variety of factors were found, but, in order of importance, I would say that speed, safety belts, distracted driving and pedestrian faults all had major contributions to the increase,” Brown said. “These causes were often further intensified by their occurring in combination with Driving Under the Influence of alcohol, drugs or both.” Speed In 2016, there were more crashes with impact speeds faster than 50 mph, and for all crashes at 50 mph or faster, impact speeds were more than in 2015, according to the study. The largest percentage increase was at the highest speed category of 91 mph or above, which increased from 21 fatal crashes with 28 deaths in 2015 to 33 fatal crashes and 44 deaths in 2016. CAPS research has shown every increase of 10 mph doubles the probability of the crash being fatal. “With the increased speeds that we are observing while on the highways, it is surprising that the fatality increase is not even higher, and speed also adds to lack of control, which increases crash frequency as well,” Brown said. Safety Belts In 2016, 403 people died during crashes without using restraints despite them being available, according to the study. Brown estimates
well more than half of these, or at least 200 fatalities, could have been reduced by proper use of restraints. The greatest offenders of the seatbelt law are those who are driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Other studies have shown 90 percent of drivers and passengers in Alabama use seat belts, however for those who die in auto crashes, less than half were using restraints. Brown said CAPS researchers using recent data have determined the probability of being killed in an auto crash increases by a factor of 30 for those who are not properly restrained. In other words, for those restrained only one in about 400 crashes are fatal, but when restraints are not used the odds increase to one in 13 crashes. Distracted Driving Nationally, studies have concluded that 16 percent of fatal crashes are caused by some form of distracted driving. In Alabama, the number of reported cases in which distracted driving caused the crash increased by about 20 percent in 2016 over 2014, according to the analysis of crash statistics. Pedestrian at fault Out of every 10 collisions with a person walking, six were the fault of the pedestrian, according to crash records. Out of the 120 pedestrians killed, 72 could have been averted by improved behaviors of the person
School
killed, according to the study. Records show drug use to be eight times the expected involvement in pedestrian fatalities than in non-fatal pedestrian injuries, and alcohol involvement was over-represented by a factor of two. “This, coupled with the obvious distraction of pedestrians using their cell phones while walking, creates a very serious increase in these extremely severe crashes,” Brown said. Safety tips The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that 94 percent of crashes are caused by human error. With that in mind, traffic safety professionals at CAPS make the following strong recommendations: Buckle up every time you get in a vehicle. Put aside all distractions, look ahead and concentrate on constantly moving to safer situations as you drive. Do not even think about driving if you have had any alcohol or disabling drugs, including marijuana. Put up the cell phone, and don’t text while driving or walking near roadways, even if they do not seem to be busy. “It is imperative that mindsets be changed and citizens realize personal responsibilities if these tragic events are to be averted in the future,” Brown said.
continued from page 1
10. “We are still investigating, but in talking with the students involved it doesn’t appear that he had any intentions of doing any harm.” Cooper said a student brought a small caliber handgun to the middle school. While showing the gun to another student it discharged with no injures. The students were taken into custody at the time and transported to the Lee County Youth Detention Facility and were suspended immediately by Cooper. They still have a legal process to go through with the courts. The names of the students have not been released due to their age. Alexander City Middle School students helped recognized members of the school board for their service as part of School Board recognition month. “Thank you for the job that you do,” Cooper told the board members. “They do not receive any pay and they are required to get professional development. They put in a lot of time and effort and do a terrific job.” Members were given small gifts from each of the schools ranging from cards, to coffee mugs, to stationery and a plasma cut address sign made by career tech students at Benjamin Russell High School. With the board at Alexander City Middle School,
board members were also treated to presentations from the school’s Builders Club, Drama Program and Women’s Ensemble. Cooper explained that the presentations show how well the arts are doing at Alexander City Schools. “This is an example of the arts programs we have been able to start in the last few years,” Cooper said. The system is good financial shape with 3.35 months of operating expense in reserve. The position is good enough that Rhonda Blythe will bring a proposal to the board next month to help make more money. “We are in a good place financially,” Blythe said. “We have $6.5 million in the bank. I am looking at pulling up to $2 million to put in higher interest rate accounts for you to approve at the February meeting.” Blythe also explained that the system is using less utilities than the last five years and paying less. A cheer team procedure change was adopted for the middle school. “We adopted a cheer policy in 2014,” Cooper explained to the board. “We have tryouts coming up in a month or so and after consulting with coaches and the athletic director it was recommended that we make a change.”
The approved change will allow the top 16 to cheer at the middle school regardless of score at tryouts instead of the 70 percent requirement in the past. The board approved the resignation of a teacher, three leaves under the Family Medical Leave Act, hiring a new music teacher at Jim Pearson Elementary School that had been open since the start of school, and contracts with a substitute teacher and two After the Bell instructors. They also approved supplements for five coaches including four baseball with two being paid by the board and the other two by the sport. Field trips for Jr. Civitan to an annual convention in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, an 8th grade trip to Six Flags and several athletic overnight trips were approved. The board also: • got a first reading of changes of board policy to add foster children and replace No Child left Behind with Every Student Succeds 2015 to admission and enrollment requirements. • approved minutes from the Nov. 29 meeting. The next meeting of the Alexander City Board of Education is Feb. 21 at 5 p.m.
Freds
continued from page 1
Officials said that other stores in the immediate area are located in Dadeville at 17916 Highway 280 in Dadeville and in Eclectic at 738 Kowaliga Road were not on the closure list at this time. Management at the Alexander City store declined comment on the closure when contacted Monday. An exact number of employees at the location was not made available, but one officials said that “about eight people” would be impacted by the move. “I hate to hear that,” Maggie Gray of Alexander City said as she left the store Tuesday. “They are on the way and it’s easy to run in and get out quick. The
prices have always been pretty good too. “That’s not good news at all.” Shopper Shameka Jones was shopping at the store Tuesday afternoon and was shocked to hear the news. “You have got to be kidding me,” Jones said. “I come in here because they always have great deals on certain kinds of cleaning supplies and it’s so much easier than Wal-mart or some of the other stores. That just blows me away. Look, the parking lot is full, I just don’t understand.” Also in December it was announced that the com-
pany aimed to purchase 865 Rite Aid stores, subject to approval by the Federal Trade Commission, which could make Fred’s Pharmacy the third-largest drugstore chain in the nation. The company began in 1947 with a store in Coldwater, Mississippi. Fred’s is now headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee and operates over 650 discount general merchandise stores, including 19 franchised Fred’s stores, mainly across the southeastern states. The company website indicates that 320 of its stores also feature pharmacies.
Prophets
continued from page 1
Levell said having the band here is a big get for Alexander City. “They are riding an incredible wave of success and popularity right now,” Levell said. “Their music has such a powerful message and the range of people that they appeal to is amazing. We hope to get the word out, especially for this show. It is much, much more than a concert. The things we are hearing about the positive message and experience that people walk away with is very impressive.” Sidewalk Prophets are a contemporary, five-piece Christian alternative rock band that is originally from Anderson, Indiana. The band was first formed in 2003 by lead singer Frey and guitarist Ben McDonald while both were attending Anderson University in Indiana. Without their knowledge one of their demos was stolen, which was then entered into a contest, leading to their performance in the competition, according to publicity material from the band. “This resulted in them catching the attention of a number of radio disc jockeys and label
people, including Audio Adrenaline’s Will McGinnis,” according to the band bio. “McGinnis gave the duo an opportunity to play for a huge crowd, interspersed with label executives, which led to a showcase event. “Eventually, the then duo signed a deal with Word Records, and was joined by guitarist Shaun Tomczak, bassist Cal Joslin, and drummer Justin Nace.” Since that start, the band has sold more than 500,000 albums, 1.5 million digital singles, been nominated for a Billboard Music Award. The band has played more than 2,000 shows before 2.5 million fans, garnered five No. 1 singles and eight top five radio hits, received over 11 million YouTube views, and been nominated for four Dove Awards, winning one. Frey said that while some see the demanding tour schedule as a burden, the band sees it as a blessing. The hardest thing about being on the road for 200 dates a year is just being away from home,” Frey said. “If it was just about the music, I would have laid it down a long time ago. But this is much bigger than
that. We get to see a lot of places and get to know the hearts of the people we meet. This year we even have a pastor on the road with us and he has helped with keeping us focused on the mission and keeps the devotional messages coming every day. “While it could be a grind, we look at it like look what God has allowed us to do – make this music and praise his name in places all over the country and world.” In addition to bringing a positive message and some of the hottest contemporary Christian sounds to Alexander City, the event will serve as a kickoff for a new Christian-based club forming at Benjamin Russell High School. Tickets are $10 online or at the door, but tickets are limited. To pick up your seats in advance you can order online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sidewalk-prophets-prodigal-tour-immersive-concert-experience-alexander-city-al-tickets-30167714446.
Arrest
continued from page 1
ahead and charge him.” As of Tuesday, Dates remained in custody and no bond amount was released as the investigation continues. A search of Alabama court filings for Dates showed no previous arrests of any kind statewide.
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From the Editor’s Desk
M
y job is to engage readers. Theoretically and technically, the longer a reader is engaged, the more time that person will spend with the magazine’s advertisers. That’s a fair trade for the reader, and if I do my job well, it’s a good investment for our advertisers. Fortunately, with issues like this one, engagement is easy. Start with the cover story about the Lake Martin Innovation Center. By the time you have your hands on this edition of Lake Martin Living, the center will be up and running. Tenants will be moving in and opening their doors; the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce will be transitioning their offices to the new facility; and Tallapoosa County will be on another virtual map that tracks economic progress. The Innovation Center is a very cool tool for this area. So far in my life, I have been involved with three small businesses: I was an owner in a retail cross-country ski shop in north central Illinois; ran my husband’s construction office before he went to seminary; and had a specialty sewing business that did well. I know from personal experience that what Innovation Center tenant Kelly Adams had to say is spot-on: Starting a business is not easy, but with the chamber’s support, it just got a lot easier. It’s also a very cool facility. There’s just enough industrial feel to make it edgy and progressive; just enough old wood to make it warm and inviting. Check out this local move from exciting vision to awesome reality on page 10. Another story that’s progressive and inviting is the article about renovating downtown buildings. We talked with property owners in Dadeville and Alexander City about the adventure and passion that drives historic downtown restorations. It takes a beautiful mix of nostalgia, vision, maybe a touch of OCD and a lot of patience to take on projects like Alexander City’s Masonic Building and Daine Sharpe’s Dadeville law office. Read the story on page 26 to find out why it’s always worth it. If you love art, check out Shane Harris’ unique perspective in this month’s first Alabama Naturalist column. Candidates for the Alabama Naturalist certification each month will share an aspect of the program about which they are passionate, and Harris’ take on the art of nature on page 20 will inspire you to look at the local scenery through more perceptive eyes. Dave Jennings’ column is not just for golfers this month. Find out what kind of sports fan you are on page 18; let Fred Muenzmay teach you to grow one of the most exotic and romantic flowers of all time on page 14; and on page 32, revisit a historical battle that almost changed the history of our nation. See? My job is easy. You’re only on page 4, but already you’re engaged.
Betsy Iler, Managing Editor 4 Lake Martin Living
Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Assistant Magazine Editor Lonna Upton Contributors Dave Jennings Luke Robinson Shane Harris Fred Muenzmay Cliff Williams Mark Spencer Ed Collari Susan Foy Mia Osborn Mitch Sneed Magazine Distribution Manager David Kendrick Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Hallie Holloway Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Emily Gregg Donna Jones Tabby Edwards Scott Hardy Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com
Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.
Lake Martin Living 5
ON THE COVER
President and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Ed Collari opens the door to business growth and entrepreneurial support through the Lake Martin Innovation Center, a collaborative facility on U.S. Highway 280. Photo by Kenneth Boone.
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26
Masonic Building owner Tim Evans retained some original elements of the building in his current renovation.
IN EVERY ISSUE
FEATURES
9. AROUND THE AREA
10. LAKE MARTIN INNOVATION CENTER Opening this month, the new business center welcomes tenants
13. MONEY MATTERS 14. HAPPY GARDEN 18. FROM THE TEE 20. ALABAMA NATURALIST 34. MEDICAL NEWS 36. OH SNAP! 40. LAKE REGION EVENTS
26. RENOVATING DOWNTOWN Passion, patience and plenty of money yield spectacular results 32. COOSA COUNTY SKIRMISH 1814 battle almost changed the history of the Creek War and our nation
50. THE LAST WORD
Lake Martin Living 7
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AROUND THE AREA
Drought affects local deer hunting This winter's unseasonal weather has taken a toll on the state's most popular game sport, said local Conservation Officer Michael East. “People just aren’t hunting as often as they have in the past,” East said. “The drought prevented people from planting cover crops, and a lot of people have become accustomed to hunting those green fields. So without them, a lot of people are staying home.” Fewer people hunting means fewer deer being harvested. Processors, including Vick Jackson of Outpost Processing in Waverly, are seeing that firsthand. “It has been slower than normal this year,” Jackson said. “The numbers being lower has nothing to do with the health of the herd. I think it has more to do with the drought. The green fields that were planted did not come up. The drought did not affect the bow hunters because they are normally hunting over acorns and such. Now is when we are seeing the lower numbers.” The warm weather had an impact on the activity level of deer and hunters alike. In December, there were 16 days with high temperatures of 65 degrees or above. "Hunters hate to be hot,” Jackson said. This year’s season is a little longer than normal, running through Feb. 10 statewide. This year hunters are required to report all harvested deer and turkey within 48 hours through the state’s Game Check using the Outdoor Alabama app. ~ Mitch Sneed and Cliff Williams
It's Cookie Time!
Beginning Jan. 20, Girl Scout cookies - including S'mores, the year's new campfire-inspired variety - will be available across the area in a sales effort that raises a large part of the program's operating budget and helps young women to develop money management and marketing skills. For information, visit www.girlscoutssa.org.
Hunters Wait on the Weather
Though the herd is healthy, hunters are not spending time in the woods for this year's extended deer season.
Learn something new for free Thanks to a grant and programs from the Alabama Public Library Service, Alexander City's Adelia M. Russell Memorial Library is able to offer a variety of learning opportunities for children and adults, said Library Director Amy Huff. “It is all free and right at your finger tips,” Huff said. The Chilton Library and the Merck Manuals are available at home through the library’s website at amrlibrary.net. And library patrons can use the Ancestry Library Edition and
ABCmouse.com in the library. The Chilton Library gives users access to manuals that could help them to repair cars. It covers most makes, models and years. The manual also could be used to prepare for ASE mechanic certification. The Merck Manuals give patrons access to medical manuals while ABCmouse.com is a great tool to help preschool children get ahead with more than 5,000 learning activities and 650 lessons. ~ Cliff Williams Lake Martin Living 9
BUSINESS MATTERS
Lake Martin
Innovation Center
A
s the Lake Martin Innovation Center last week prepared to turn on the fiber internet and welcome budding entrepreneurs, Alexander City’s Kelly Adams was packed and ready to move into the 600-squarefoot room at the facility that will house a business she has dreamed of since childhood. Adams, who owns Beyond Home Care along with her mother, will provide caregiver services for the aged and disabled, a business with which she has been involved since volunteering for her aunt’s service in elementary school. “Home care has been my niche. Some people like to work with children or pets. I love the elderly,” Adams said. “The Innovation Center is a great opportunity for us. The process of starting a small business is not easy, so having the support of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce will be very helpful from a small business 10 Lake Martin Living
perspective.” Adams’ bonded and insured endeavor will have an office within the 17,000-square-foot facility that once served as the processing center for Aliant Bank, now USAmeriBank. Mark Spencer, Senior Vice President and Central Alabama Area Executive for USAmeriBank, approached the chamber last year about using the space to support local business growth after the processing operations were moved to another location. The Alexander City Chamber of Commerce signed a lease for the property last September and has spent the last five months remodeling to suit the needs of future entrepreneurs, small businesses and visiting executives at the lake. “One of our main goals as a chamber of commerce is to help foster existing business growth. Through the technological and business resources in this facility, we
STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
will be able to host professional development workshops and seminars on a regular basis to train our local leaders and to strengthen their economic position,” explained Chamber President and CEO Ed Collari. The availability of training space will help Adams prepare the caregiver staff that will serve her clients. She will begin screening caregiver applications later this month and will be ready to take on clients by early February. Collari expected to start moving the chamber operations into the new space this month, after many weeks of work by subcontractors and volunteers who prepared the building for the mission ahead. Chamber board members and staff have painted, installed trims and fixtures and applied floor treatments in the 10 to 12 offices that will accommodate the needs of startup businesses and executive tenants in half of the leased
Growing Business in Tallapoosa County
The Lake Martin Innovation Center is expected to open for business mid-month.
space, as well as the section of the property that will provide offices for the chamber. The facility on U.S. Highway 280 will offer business and technical support for a variety of interests, from cultivating young talent and incubating new businesses to offering meeting space and the use of technological equipment to executives on a membership basis. “For a nominal fee, business professionals can access the facility 24/7 to meet clients, host meetings or facilitate conference calls,” Collari said. “This option will be targeted to those who travel through our community on their way to places like Opelika, Auburn, Birmingham or Montgomery, as well as executives on Lake Martin, who hope to prolong their stay in our community by Lake Martin Living 11
being able to access the technological resources provided in this facility.” The center also will be available for people who work remotely, as it will provide office space for meetings and will be able to help business operators establish local contacts. The technological capabilities in the facility are a collaboration with the chamber and another of the Innovation Center’s first tenants, WisePoint LLC, an information management consulting company that offers high-end web application services to large corporations. Jeff Kirk, a partner in the limited liability interest, said the company will occupy about 1,000 square feet of space in the building and will expand their services to meet technological needs of local small businesses, including computer repairs and software package training, as well as a broadcast studio facility that will be set up in the old bank vault space. The Innovation Center will allow WisePoint the necessary room to grow, said Kirk, who grew up in Tennessee but moved to the area eight years ago after graduating Auburn University. Within a few months, WisePoint will hire on interns to help with an extension of the company’s services, including PC repairs. Within two or three years, he expects that the company will provide jobs for up to 10 employees at the Innovation Center. “Beyond that, we would move to another location in town and make that space available for another business, which is the way it’s supposed to work,” he said. “We started this company about three years ago. At first, I worked out of my home and for two years have been in an office on Broad Street,” Kirk explained. “But we needed the band width that the Innovation Center will provide.” WisePoint has been a technology consultant on the high-end fiber infrastructure installation at the incubation center, and Kirk said the advanced capability would meet the needs of other local businesses as well. The advanced capabilities at the Innovation Center will allow local webcast hosting and Youtube broadcast projects for small businesses that might not otherwise be able to afford those services. Collari said the chamber would launch a full-scale marketing plan to attract Innovation Center clients and members. “We are looking for entrepreneurs – not just young talent but any age. With Lake Martin here, we have the potential to attract young entrepreneurs as well as experienced individuals who are transitioning into retirement or maybe already have retired but want to keep a hand in business. The Innovation Center could help them do that,” Collari said. For information about the Lake Martin Innovation Center, contact the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce at 256-2343461. Finishing Touches
Subcontractors and volunteers seal the concrete floors, place furniture, sweep and install baseboards in the offices and conference areas at the Innovation Center to prepare it for tenants that will move their businesses in this month.
12 Lake Martin Living
FOSTERING GROWTH
F
or more than a decade, workers in Alexander City and the Tallapoosa County area have witnessed an economy in transition. With a lack of manufacturing jobs locally, talented people in our community have looked for employment out of town. But there also has been positive news as we’ve seen the economy change; many people are seeing opportunities to start their own businesses. Helping these businesses along is the concept behind the new Lake Martin Innovation Center. When the Innovation Center opens in early 2017, businesses will find the space they need to grow. But growth is about more than space. It’s also about fostering the ability Mark Spencer to take risks, form meaningful partnerships, try new ideas, and take advantage of professional development and educational opportunities. The Innovation Center will provide flexible office options for younger businesses, along with a place to collaborate with other growing businesses and entrepreneurs. USAmeriBank is leasing its former operations center in Alexander City to the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce for the new 17,500-square-foot center, at the rate of $100 per year for 16 years. The center will feature office space, conference space and a fiber-optic high-speed internet connection. It also will house the chamber’s office, where the organization will continue to provide educational opportunities and resources for the business community. The Innovation Center could house 12 to 14 full-time small business tenants at any one time. In addition, people who need temporary workspace can use common work areas and conference space as part of a membership plan. Since nearly 50 percent of the homes on Lake
Martin are second homes, executives from places like Birmingham, Montgomery or Atlanta who are staying in the area will find these membershipbased resources helpful in working away from the office. Part of the Chamber’s focus is to attract and retain young talent in the area while supporting existing businesses. And for USAmeriBank, providing the building and collaborating with the Innovation Center – the bank’s new neighbor – is a natural outgrowth of the bank’s community engagement and support of entrepreneurship. The bank will be available to work with the businesses in the Innovation Center, from providing financial services and products, to offering help with Ed Collari such things as budgeting and business planning. We see the Innovation Center as a place where established professionals and those just starting their businesses can work near each other and also find opportunities for the kinds of discussion and collaboration that foster new ideas and build successful partnerships. For example, envision a professional in the finance industry working alongside a tech-savvy entrepreneur skilled at app development making use of the chamber’s resources, such as workshops on marketing, while sharing with each other the skills and knowledge that could lead to a whole new product. And in turn, we will be helping Alexander City and Tallapoosa County grow a new kind of economy, built on innovation and technology.
MONEY MATTERS
~ Mark Spencer is Senior Vice President, Central Alabama Area Executive for USAmeriBank and serves on the board of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. Ed Collari is President and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce.
Lake Martin Living 13
Bird of Happy Garden
Fred Muenzmay 14 Lake Martin Living
Paradise
I
t was 22 years ago. I was working as a problem solver in the welding industry. One of my accounts was CSX Transportation in Kentucky. A railroad inspector and I had been working on a system-wide problem, and after six months, we were blessed to find a solution in the mechanical operations of CSX. That year, I received a note from the chief inspector indicating that we had been nominated for the Gordian Knot Award for cutting through the knot, and six months later, I received an invitation to the awards ceremony in Jacksonville, Florida. The award was given to me by a CSX employee with whom I had formed a friendship over the past year. At the presentation of the plaque and some nice words, John Rigger CWI presented me with a root from a Bird of Paradise plant he had ordered from Hawaii. “I thought you needed a greenhouse challenge in your spare time,” he told me. Rigger knew we had moved to Alabama a year earlier and were in the process of building our first large greenhouse as we looked forward to getting off the road and to retirement. One year passed before we saw the first green leaf from that root, and it was seven years before we saw our first bloom of the Bird of Paradise. This plant taught me the meaning of the word “patience” when it came to people and plants. But as I wrote this article, Lake Martin Living 15
resemble those of banana plants. there were some 30 mature plants that bloomed from the The Bird of Paradise plant requires very bright light. This original root cutting, and we have met many folks in this area slant can even be placed in the direct sun if moved into the light who are raise and enjoy Bird of Paradise plants all year round. gradually to allow the leaves to slowly adapt. As the seasons This variety of plants, Strelitzia, Bird of Paradise is also called change, it might need to be moved around the house to give it Crane Flower (Strelitzia reginae). There are five species of the adequate light. Placing a Bird of Paradise Plant close to a southgenus, all native to South Africa. They grow from rhizomes facing window is always best. (underground stems) to a height of 3 In the spring and summer, the soil to 5 feet and have stiff, erect, leathery, of a Bird of Paradise plant should concave and oblong bluish green be moist but never soggy. This plant leaves that may have red midribs. needs less water in the fall and winter. The Bird of Paradise flower was Water a Bird of Paradise plant from first introduced to Britain in 1773 the bottom, so the soil does not by Sir Joseph Banks, who was then become too compact and remains the unofficial director of the Royal well aerated. Gardens at Kew (as they were known Feed a Bird of Paradise with a good at that time). He named the exoticbasic houseplant fertilizer at half the looking plant Strelitzia in honor of recommended strength every six Queen Charlotte, wife of George III months in the spring and summer, and Duchess of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, when it is actively growing. Never who lived at Kew for many years. fertilize a Bird of Paradise plant in the The flower has two erect, pointed fall or winter when it is resting. Excess petals and five stamens. One main food in the soil deposits salts that bract, shaped like a boat, is green burn the leaves. with red borders. It holds many longBird of Paradise grows best when stemmed orange and bright-blue the temperature is between 65-75 flowers. degrees during the spring, summer The plant gets its common name and fall. In the winter, when the plant from the exotic appearance of the Crane Flower is resting, keep the temperature 10 inflorescence (flowering head). Previous pages: Also known at the Crane degrees cooler. If the temperature goes Flower, the Bird of Paradise blossom Emerging from a horizontal green resembles a crane in flight; Left: In its first year, below 50 degrees, the leaves may curl and pink boat-shaped bract in slow the foliage of the plant is lush and green. and turn black. succession, the flowers look like the A Bird of Paradise plant does well crest on a bird’s head. in basic household humidity. We keep our Birds outside all year Each flower comprises three upright orange outer sepals and except when the night temperature falls below 50 degrees – three highly modified, vivid blue inner sepals, two of which are joined together in a structure that resembles an arrowhead, with usually late November through February. A 3-foot or 4-foot Bird of Paradise plant is usually grown the third sepal forming a nectary at the base of the flower. in an 18x20-inch pot. A 5-foot to 7-foot plant will require a The stamens have long, thin filaments surrounded by the 25-gallon container mounted on wheels for easy placement arrowhead structure with emerging whitish anthers. When a indoors and on the patio. Use a basic potting soil that retains pollinator, usually a bird, lands on the arrowhead in search of water but still drains well. the copious nectar, the anthers are levered clear of the flower, Cut off any dead or damaged leaves and stems as close to the and pollen is deposited on the feet or breast of the pollinator, root clump as you can. which then carries the pollen to another flower. The easiest way to propagate a Bird of Paradise plant is by The plant’s fruit is a leathery capsule containing numerous division. small seeds, each of which has an orange aril (an outgrowth The plant is highly toxic, so be sure to keep pets away. from the seed similar to the red sheath or mace that is found Symptoms of ingestion include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. around fresh nutmeg seeds) and an oil body, possibly attractive Call a local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control to birds that may help to distribute the seeds. Center if symptoms occur. Bird of Paradise flowers are highly prized and widely cultivated as ornamentals. The flowers are good for cutting and ~ Fred Muenzmay of Eagle's Roost Herb Farms is a Master make exotic additions to floral displays. Individual flowers last about a week, but a single boat-shaped bract will produce several Gardener and has been in the business of growing organic herbs, vegetables and blueberries for regional and local farmers markets flowers in succession. When not in flower, the plant still has for 26 years. Contact him at fmuenzmay@earthlink.net. a striking appearance, due to the large glaucous leaves, which 16 Lake Martin Living
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Lake Martin Living 17
F
ans of the game respect those talented golfers who excel on the course. Some of these golfers hit the ball so far and so close to the pin, make all of their putts and week after week place high on the leaderboard. Some golf fans only tune in to the PGA Tour during a major – such as The Masters, US Open, The Open and the PGA Championship – while others tune their televisions to the Golf Channel the moment they wake up to see how the players are doing on the European Tour, followed by the LPGA and the PGA Tour coverage. They finish each day watching the Champions’ Tour golf coverage. These same people have subscriptions to more than a few trade magazines so they can keep up with college golf and all of the developmental tours. The hook of this game can bury deep. I believe that there are three levels of fans in sports: No. 1 – The fan who tunes in to golf for the Major championships. This fan most likely is a college football fan on New Years’ weekend; a college basketball fan when the “Sweet 16” has become established; a MLB fan during the World Series; a hockey fan for the Stanley Cup; an NFL fan after the Wildcard teams have been determined; and an NBA fan deep into the playoffs. This fan has something to add to the conversation at the watercooler at work – usually perspective on a tremendous play, shot, catch or hit witnessed the night before. No. 2 – The person who has a deeper love for a game may expand on an event and chat about what a turnaround the game was for a particular athlete who had come from meager beginnings or overcame a physical injury. No. 3 – This fan is capable of credibly comparing an athlete to one from 10, 20, 30, 60 or 80 years ago. The No. 1 fan is a sports fan that loves to watch the best players compete. The No. 2 fan pulls for his team no matter what, year in and year out. The No. 3 fan has a deep love for the game. This person, if athletic, most likely excelled in his/her sport. This person is a student of the game. The greatest athletes know the history of their sports - the evolution of the rules, equipment, athletes, game-management and shot making or defense strategies in team sports. They are aware of the various weather conditions in the different outdoor athletic facilities and turf conditions at the various venues. The greatest athletes became great not only because they were physically gifted but also because they were mentally prepared for the competitions. They did their homework. These few athletes are students of the game. The greats in golf – Bobby Jones, Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer,
Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods and others – were tremendous athletes, but they were/are also students of the game. Before any of these great players competed in a big tournament, they studied and charted the golf course in depth. They learned who won previous events on that course. They knew who played well in previous events at that course, and they knew why. The “Greats” study the game, inside and out. To gain a deep appreciation and become very good at anything takes study, learning the history of the activity or trade in which we choose to excel. In doing so, we just might not repeat errors that others have made; we might learn from others’ accomplishments; and certainly we would approach any sport better prepared to participate and compete. Oftentimes when I speak to my team, I encourage them to become students of the game, but I’ve learned over the years that the boys are not going to immediately head to the library to check out a dozen books relating to the history of the game. So over Christmas break, I experimented a bit. I gave them all an assignment to write a paper about three different golf subjects. They had to write two pages on each of their subjects while using three different references for each subject. The subjects were: a biography of a Tour professional, the golf industry and the history of a golf course. I chose the subjects and had each team member blind draw for the particular subjects. The Tour Professionals in the hat included Bobby Jones, Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Harry Vardon, Patty Berg, Walter Hagen and others. The golf industry subjects included the evolution of the golf club, the birth of the PGA Tour, evolution of the golf ball, sports psychology in golf, USGA and the R&A, along with others. The history of golf courses consisted of Major venues, including Wing Foot, Pebble Beach, Pinehurst, Augusta National, Oakmont, St. Andrews, The Country Club at Brookline and a few other courses. This assignment was due upon the students’ return in January. Along with turning their papers in, each team member will individually stand and speak about the assignments, knowing their subjects well enough to answer a few questions. These assignments are not designed to keep my players off the streets during their downtime but rather to allow them to learn more about how the game has been shaped. Who knows, they may actually learn to “love” the game of golf. In working on his assignment, one of my players sent me a text saying he had no idea that Harry Vardon had won so many golf tournaments; he had never heard of him before. In his
A game for the fans
18 Lake Martin Living
From the Tee
words, “Vardon was awesome!” I feel certain that my players are going to have a new appreciation for the game of golf when they return from Christmas break. I am hoping that it will fire them up just a little more. I challenge you to do a little research on the game of golf as well. Don’t know where to start? Begin by sitting down in front of your computer and picking any year for the US Open – the 1949 Dave Jennings US Open Championship, let’s say. Cary Middlecoff was the Champion. Middlecoff was also a dentist – yes, really! He beat out Sam Snead in Snead’s third of four runner-up finishes in the only major championship he did not win, though Snead won 82 PGA Tour events. Can you imagine? There’s a lot to learn out there, and you might get a kick out of what you discover. If you have children or grandchildren, get them involved, too. Are today’s golfers great? Yes, they are. Are today’s golfers better than the pros in the 1950s? Well, looking strictly at the distances they hit and the scores they shoot today, you would have to imagine so; however, a lot has changed over the years. Today’s golf ball is amazingly hotter and more consistent than the old balata golf balls. The clubs are more than an inch longer, creating a longer arch in the golf swing and, thus, more clubhead speed. The lofts on the irons are nowhere close; today’s 9-irons are what the 7-irons were when Ben Hogan played on Tour. Course conditions are not even in the same league. Fairways today are perfect. Unless a ball rolls into a divot, the player’s lie is ideal. Gene Littler had to dig most of his irons shots out of “cuppy” lies in the fairways. And the greens today are pure. The greens in the 1950s were not as good as our fairways today, and the speed of those old greens wasn’t even close. Persimmon drivers were about the same size as today’s 5-wood, and most of them had a fiber (soft) insert that was secured by brass screws. Even the grips on the golf clubs and the gloves players wore were nowhere close to the high quality we find in today’s equipment. That makes it hard to really compare apples to apples in this question; however, it is the same great game: Get the ball from the tee into the hole with the least number of strokes possible. Broaden your horizons and deepen your appreciation for the game; do some research. What the heck, we’re going to have some cold and wet days over these next couple of months when sitting inside with a good book, a search browser or a television documentary is more comfortable than swinging a club. Deepening your love of the game sure beats the soap operas. ~ Dave Jennings is the men's golf coach at Central Alabama Community College. Lake Martin Living 19
I
guess you could say I am into fine art. Most people might be surprised to know that about me; that I have an eye and appreciation for it. But you will not find me browsing in a fancy art gallery. Neither do I have a personal collection of exquisite sculptures and paintings. I prefer the simple things – the art of nature. I have always been fascinated by the great outdoors. It is that natural gallery where I enjoy looking and pondering and studying what I see and discover. I am inquisitive, of course, so minute things grab my attention. When others just pass on by, I have to examine the fine details. The four seasons are always on display with so much beauty and so many works of art to enjoy. Spring and autumn are my favorites, as they offer more than one can take in. Spring features lovely wildflowers; whereas, autumn displays fantastic fall colors. Summer and winter are less glamorous but just happen to present the same palate in different perspectives. Summer is so green, lush and alive. But what about winter? At first glance, one might think the winter landscape is just dull and boring. Yes, there seems to be no life – no leaves on trees and no flowers to enjoy; however, that is Shane Harris where the amazing part begins. Winter unveils areas of nature that would not be noticed during other seasons. The background of the woodlands – the skeleton – can be seen in full detail. Rocks and boulders are among the most prominent natural artistic features of the winter woodland. The lack of green vegetation to hide them allows the subtle rocks and different types to really stand out. An average rock or two amongst the leaves is okay, but what is truly spectacular are some of the big rock outcroppings on hillsides and along streams and ditches. They are not found just anywhere, so it’s fun to stumble upon them. And once you do, you just have to wonder how such rock formations got there – and in such unique arrangements. Rocks and boulders are natural sculptures in my opinion. Another neat artistic item found in the winter woodland is moss. Artistically speaking, moss adds color and texture to the winter landscape. You will find moss growing around trees, on the ground and on rocks. It enhances the areas where it is found and whatever it is found on and provides a stroke of green color where there is none. At first glance, moss looks like green carpet, but it is actually a collection of small, flowerless plants. It grows in dense clumps that give it a mat, uniform look. A close-up of moss is fantastic to look at. The tiny structures look like little trees and give the
Alabama Naturalist
20 Lake Martin Living
Moss
The art of nature
Lake Martin Living 21
Lichen
Needle Ice
Reindeer Moss
22 Lake Martin Living
Moss
impression of another world. You can touch this natural art, too, as it is soft to the touch. The world of lichens may be the most interesting, yet weirdest, works of art found in nature. They are more noticeable during the winter and can be found everywhere. Lichen are that common, light gray, paper-like stuff that can sometimes be found growing on tree trunks, rocks and other living and nonliving surfaces. Lichen are complex life forms composed of two organisms – a fungus and an alga. This union or symbiosis produces a long-lived organism that does not look like either the fungal or algal partner. Both partners contribute to the growth of the lichen. The alga uses photosynthesis, like other plants, to produce food while the fungus supplies water and essential minerals and produces a structure that protects the alga from extreme environmental conditions. Together, they thrive in some of the harshest environments on earth where few other plants and neither partner alone could survive. Lichen just look bizarre, sort of alien-like. Maybe that is why they are so interesting, especially when examined up close. Lichens come in many colors, sizes and forms. There are three common types of lichens: 1) crustose forms, which are flat; 2) folicose forms, which produce leaflike folds; and 3) fruiticose lichens, which produce highly branched structures with hair or fingerlike projections. Most lichens in Alabama are gray-green; however, the colors of other species vary from yellow and orange to dark brown. Reindeer moss is a specific type of fruiticose lichen that is worth singling out. It is blue gray in color and densely
branched with short numerous branchelets. It has moss in its name but is really a large, growing lichen. To me, reindeer moss resembles some sort of coral found deep in the ocean, but it grows in the sun at the top of eroding banks and on poor soil in other areas. Like moss, reindeer moss grows in clumps, is slow growing and long lived. Reindeer moss is exposed in the winter when all other vegetation around it has died back. It’s just an odd looking feature of nature that you have to check out to appreciate. I would be remiss if I did not mention the very special handiwork of art that can sometimes be seen during the winter – ice. Yes, I know freezing temperatures and winter weather are not fun in any way in Alabama, but certain conditions can produce some spectacular ice formations and works of art. Ever seen needle ice? This is made when water in the soil is brought to the surface via capillary action and freezes into a vertical ice column. Though they may not have noticed needle ice at the time, most folks have heard the ground crunch when they walked on it. There is a saying that “art is in the eye of the beholder.” Well, these are a few examples of fine art I have observed in our winter woodland. I hope you will take time to appreciate what nature has to offer for our enjoyment, but always remember to give credit to the Creator. He is my favorite artist. ~ Tallapoosa County Extension Coordinator Shane Harris is an avid outdoorsman and student of photography. He can be reached at the local Extension Service Office in Dadeville at 256-825-1050.
Rocks
Lake Martin Living 23
Valentine’s Day.. gifts! for her & for him
Southern Star Alpaca Fashions 10390 AL HWY 259, Alex City southernstarfarm.us
Cotney Jewelers 134 Calhoun Street, Alex City • 256-234-5059
Specializing in Custom Vacations, Cruises, Honeymoons and Weekend Trips Blue Horizon Travel 601 S. Norton Ave., Sylacauga 256-245-7900 bluehorizontravelllc.com
Better Bodies Massage 334-737-1400 betterbodiesal.com
Cuts, Color and More Studio Sam Hair Salon 2052 Cherokee Rd., Alex City 256-786-2502
Unfinished rocking chairs, outdoor and garden décor Lake Martin Building Supply 2695 Dadeville Rd., Alex City • 256-234-5500
Guns, Ammo, Coolers and more. Everything you need for the hunter in your life. The Sure Shot 3862 Highway 280, Alex City 256-329-0080 • thesureshot.us
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Call for Valentine’s Day Spa packages and specials.
Massage - Gift Certificates Available Noel Boone - Lic #588 239 Church St., Alex City 256-749+0318
Madison House Restorations 32 Main St., Alex City 256-392-4600 • 256-749-4716 madisonhouserestorations.com
Lake Martin Medspa 601 S. Norton Ave., Sylacauga 256-245-7900 bluehorizontravelllc.com
Lawn mowers, outdoor power equipment, Big Green Eggs, Yeti coolers and much more Satterfield 2828 Dadeville Rd., Alex City • 256-935-0442
Bodyworks Massage 2828 Dadeville Rd., Alex City • 256-935-0442 Becoming a Beautiful Youth Edith’s Beautique 107 Jefferson St., Alex City • 256-329-0765
Wine and beer don’t judge... Wine and beer care... They understand... Happy Valentine’s Day! Craft Beers, Specialty, Imports & Domestic Wine Market - On premises & Off Premises Sales & Specialty Draft Growlers Fermenter’s Market 149 Alabama St., Alex City 8 E. 2nd St., Sylacauga
Painting Classes, Comissions, etc. Cottage Gallery 6 Broad St., Alex City 256-392-3933 or 256-496-6532
Lake Martin Living 25
Renovating Downtown Passion, patience and plenty of money yield spectacular results
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
26 Lake Martin Living
“Y
ou never know what you’re going to get,” said Alexander City’s Larkin Radney. “It’s a ton of work,” Brooks Lamberth added. “Things go slow, and you automatically have a lot of cost overruns,” explained local contractor Tim Evans. “Once you start, there’s no turning back,” Dadeville’s Daine Sharpe said. Still, they all would do it again, and most of them have. Alexander City native Larkin Radney renovated his first downtown building – the Main Street storefront occupied by Little Black Dress – with his wife Richie 22 years ago. Lake Martin Living 27
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“We were not prepared,” he said. “The idea when we began the renovation project downtown was to take the building back to its original look. We tried to take it back to what it originally looked like by the old photographs. “The thing with a project like that is you never know what you’re going to get. It’s a leap of faith. But we loved doing it.” Radney said that after removing three layers of linoleum and even some carpet, they discovered that the original floors could not be saved. In addition, the building needed a new heating and air conditioning system, as well as a new roof. But not all of the surprises were unpleasant ones, he said. Sometimes, when the decades of remodeling materials have been removed, he’s been surprised at how well preserved some of the building’s original characteristic features really were. When he renovated the Cloud Nine building with partner Kenny Riley and took out the dropped ceiling, they found a Historic Exposure
Previous pages: In the renovation of the second floor interior of Alexander City's Masonic Building, owner Tim Evans highlights the original architectural details with natural light from the arched windows; Left: Brooks Lamberth mirrored the shape of original window frames in the new awning frames and mahogany doors at 6 Broad St., Alexander City; Below: The Masonic Building renovation continues into its third year of work.
beautiful old tin-stamped ceiling and beautiful wooden floors that no one had seen in 50 or 60 years, he said. And when the metal façade was removed from the old Carlisle drugstore building in Radney’s exterior restoration, townspeople came to Main Street just to see the building and the exposed vintage signage beneath the siding. “Some people even found their names where they had written them on the bricks years ago,” Radney said. In the last five years, 28 downtown buildings have been restored or historically renovated, said MainStreet Alexander City Director Richard Wagoner. “We’ve received a lot of compliments. Out-of-towners are amazed at our downtown,” Wagoner said. “A major catalyst has been the opportunity to match the projects with Adelia M. Russell Foundation grants. Through the grant program, we can give a store owner a dollar-for-dollar match, up to $5,000 per building, if they want to renovate in accordance with the historic preservation ordinance.” And in the course of renovation, every dollar counts because every job usually entails more work than the original estimates include, Radney said. “Expect to replace a lot more than you think,” he advised. “You never know what you’re going to get into. You’ll do a lot of uncovering.”
Lake Martin Living 29
For many of those who take on such projects, passion for Lamberth agreed. “Nothing is square. Nothing is straight,” Lamberth said. “With architectural integrity and historic beauty are driving forces, but return on the investment must also be considered. When this last one that I did, next to the old Frohsin building on the Dadeville attorney Daine Sharpe renovated the building at 134 plaza, the building was in such bad shape that I basically gutted N. Broadnax St. where his father had practiced law, the location it. I had to get down to the bare bones and start from there.” justified the investment. The bare bones meant taking the interior back to the original “I am right across the street from the front steps of the exterior walls. Lamberth’s crews removed all of the walls, Tallapoosa County Courthouse. It’s the perfect location for an electrical, plumbing and windows for the building’s three floors attorney,” he said. and took out the entire roof structure. It was 1992 when Sharpe took over the building from his “Water is one of the biggest problems with old buildings that father. Once a drugstore with a doctor’s office upstairs, the haven’t been taken care of,” Lamberth said. “Not only do you 100-year-old building was showing its wear. Eight years ago, he have to completely the replace the roof, but everything below decided to remodel the lobby. that gets damaged as well, so you have to take everything out, “Well, we got down to the floor and found that there was get down to the wood and get the rotten wood out. Get down to termite and water damage, and the bare bones and start from we had to go further back into there.” the building and realized the “You learn more about flooring was shot throughout. what you’re going to do as We got about halfway back you tear it down and see what and got to a bathroom, and the your options are,” explained contractor tapped his foot on Evans, who renovated his first the floor and told me he didn’t downtown building in 2008. know how the commode hadn’t “Where possible, we try to get fallen through the floor yet,” back to the original bricks, Sharpe said. timbers and beams.” “We tore out the whole Doing so, he said, means downstairs – everything; these projects take a long took it out the front door to a time – sometimes years – to dumpster out front. We took it complete. Defining Design “The Masonic Building While modern materials are used for the walls and lighting, down to the mortar walls and Evans added charm to the Masonic Building interior with a had an architect lay it out, and project has been going on for structural beam from one side to the other. we built a new office in an old two or three years now. The building.” size of the project required all Renovating an old office building, Sharpe said, was like kinds of engineering and permitting on the front end before the climbing on a bull. first thing could be done. “You get off when the bull gets tired, not when you do,” he “The more you dig in, the more you realize you have to tear said. something else out. Maybe the floors are rotted, and they all But in the course of the renovations, he found the original need to be replaced, and you didn’t think you were going to have soda fountain that once operated in the drugstore, along with to do that. So that costs more money, and there are things you the building’s original 10-foot doors, which he plans to refinish. have to do differently because now you can’t afford to do what And the renovation reflects the building’s history with exposed you originally wanted to. It all takes time and money.” beams and even a fireplace. Lamberth said he was prepared for much of what he found “It’s top notch,” he said. in the Broad Street building because it wasn’t his first downtown Top notch is just what Lamberth was going for with his renovation project; he previously restored two houses on renovation project as he searched the internet for weeks for Calhoun Street, doing much of the labor himself to save money. just the right mahogany doors for his building. And he made “What I really didn’t count on with the building on the plaza numerous calls and inquiries before he found a shop out in the though was how big the building is,” he said. “You’re talking middle of nowhere to make the frames for his copper awnings. about a building that is 80 feet by 40 feet – and three floors. “It’s the appeal of the architecture. People are drawn to places It’s close to 10,000 square feet. That’s a lot of square feet. The like that. Look at New Orleans. That’s why people go down building is so big that it took a lot more – of everything.” there, for the architecture. It’s the attention to detail. Historic “Your plans definitely change over the course of the project,” downtowns have architectural appeal. You can walk from one Evans said. “You hope they change for the better as you find building to another. There’s some charm to it. It’s worth saving,” architectural and historical characteristics, things that you want Lamberth said. to preserve, so you can capture the building’s essence.” 30 Lake Martin Living
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Coosa County skirmish in 1814 almost changed history of the nation STORY BY MIA OSBORN
A
New Site historical marker relates the story of a near-turning point in the Creek War. Over a period of several days in the winter of 1814, The Red Stick warriors of the Creek Nation found General Andrew Jackson’s forces in what later became Coosa County and attacked him on all sides. This hellish ordeal very nearly succeeded in breaking Jackson’s troops and rewriting the history of Alabama. The end of 1813 brought trouble to Jackson’s army, which was made up mostly of men with temporary enlistment periods of 60 days. After major victories in Tallushatchee and Talladega in the fall of 1813, Jackson was forced to dismiss those seasoned fighters and wait for new, inexperienced reinforcements. By January 1814, Jackson’s forces were reduced to a few hundred untrained recruits and some warriors of the Cherokee and Lower Creek nations that were sympathetic to his cause. Hardship and desertion further whittled his troop numbers, and the green recruits were less than enthusiastic about embarking into the hostile wilderness of the area. On Jan. 17, Jackson’s men departed Fort Strother in what is now St. Clair County to march south for a raid on the Red Stick village of Emucfau (sometimes spelled “Emuckfaw”) and to meet reinforcements from the Georgia Militia. On that night of Jan. 21 some 203 years ago, Jackson’s forces had already made camp when they discovered three Red Stick scouts slipping through the woods. The troops fired upon them, killing one. Jackson’s own scouts found Emucfau’s 32 Lake Martin Living
location, 3 miles distant, and began forming plans of attack. But the Creek surprised them in the early hours of the morning, making a dent in Jackson’s numbers before retreating into the nearby swamp. Jackson led some of his men in pursuit, but the Creek doubled back and returned to Jackson’s camp, killing several soldiers and one commander – Maj. A. Donaldson – before being driven off once more. The battle made Old Hickory reconsider his ambitious goal of taking a Creek stronghold with untrained men. According to James Pickett’s 1851 book, History of Alabama, the Red Stick warriors “exhibited a ferocity and courage which commanded the serious consideration of Jackson, whose force was weaker than he desired.” At this point, supplies were already low, and the horses were starving. Jackson ordered his remaining troops to retreat back to Fort Strother. The Red Sticks followed them in secret, and two days later, when Jackson’s forces were crossing Emucfau Creek, they attacked again. Historians believe this was the Creek’s best chance to kill Jackson, and they nearly succeeded. That encounter, called the Battle of Enitachopko, has its own historical marker in Clay County. The misadventure taught Jackson to be more cautious. He and his remaining men recovered at Fort Strother until February, when the arrival of the 39th United States Infantry and 2,000 men from the East Tennessee Militia gave him a force to be reckoned with. Still, Jackson waited, training with his forces and building roads around the Fort until he was sure that his troops had every possible advantage. Jackson resumed his offensive in mid-March and went on to end the Creek War at the Battle of Horseshoe Bend on March 27, 1814. The marker is located at the intersection of Highway 22 and Church Street in New Site, across from Roger’s Meat Market with coordinates 33.03628 N and 85.77515 W.
Give Your Heart a Fresh Start The new year is here, so why not make a resolution that gives you and your loved ones peace of mind? We all know that healthy hearts live longer, more active lives. That starts with a comprehensive cardiac checkup. February is American Heart Month, serving as an annual reminder of the fight against cardiovascular disease. Kevin Sublett, MD, and his staff at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic of Central Alabama are proud supporters of this fight. We are committed to keeping your heart healthy, so you can live a healthier life all year long. Our clinic is backed by the world-class expertise you expect from UAB Medicine, offering: • The full spectrum of cardiovascular care • Care from a physician board-certified in interventional cardiology • The latest in cardiac and vascular ultrasound technology, as well as nuclear medicine imaging in accredited laboratories • Diagnosis and treatment of cardiac rhythm disorders • Convenient location within Russell Medical Call us today to schedule an appointment!
3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 234-2644 uabmedicine.org/heartcentralAL
Lake Martin Living 33 Heart & Vascular Clinic ad-HEART MONTH-4.8x9.75.indd 1
11/15/16 10:39 AM
Russell Medical wins Gold Seal Surprise inspection yields top marks for local hospital
H
appy New Year! Russell Medical ended 2016 on a high note as Jim Peace, President and CEO, announced that the hospital once again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for hospital accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal of Approval is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective patient care. Russell Medical underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite survey Aug. 16-18. During the review, a team of Joint Commission expert surveyors evaluated compliance with hospital standards related to several areas, including emergency management, environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership and medication management. Surveyors also conducted onsite observations and interviews. The accreditation was made public on Nov. 21, 2016. The Joint Commission has accredited hospitals for more than 60 years. More than 4,000 general, children’s, longterm acute, psychiatric, rehabilitation and specialty hospitals currently maintain accreditation from The Joint Commission. Accreditation is awarded for a three-year period. Russell Medical first received accreditation by The Joint Commission in 1959. “Joint Commission accreditation provides hospitals with the processes needed to improve in a variety of areas, from the enhancement of staff education to the improvement of daily business operations,” said Mark G. Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer, Division of Accreditation and
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Medical News
Certification Operations, The Joint Commission. “In addition, our accreditation helps hospitals enhance their risk management and risk reduction strategies. We commend Russell Medical for its efforts to become a quality improvement organization.” Peace said the hospital takes pride in this highly desired recognition, and staff stay ‘Joint Commission Ready’ every day. “We are pleased to receive Susan Foy accreditation from The Joint Commission, the premier health care quality improvement and accrediting body in the nation,” he said. “Staff from across the organization work together daily to develop and implement approaches and processes that potentially improve care for the patients in our community.” As February approaches, Russell Medical is preparing to offer three important screenings at special rates during American Heart Month. If you or someone you love has known risk factors for heart disease, such as family history, obesity, stressed lifestyle, history of smoking or diabetes, consider these potentially life-saving screenings. The calcium-score heart scan ($90), stroke prevention carotid artery ultrasound ($75) and echocardiogram ($125) may be scheduled by calling 256329-7826. Appointments are required, and payment must be made prior to the test. Results will be sent to your primary care physician and one of our cardiologists. Russell Medical reminds you that early detection of heart disease saves lives. Take a moment for your heart; get screened today! - Susan Foy is marketing director for Russell Medical.
THIS IS COMMUNITY. THIS IS YOUR MUSEUM. THIS IS AUBURN.
JCSM.AUBURN.EDU Lake Martin Living 35
Renovating Downtown Passion, patience and plenty of money yield spectacular results
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
26 Lake Martin Living
“Y
ou never know what you’re going to get,” said Alexander City’s Larkin Radney. “It’s a ton of work,” Brooks Lamberth added. “Things go slow, and you automatically have a lot of cost overruns,” explained local contractor Tim Evans. “Once you start, there’s no turning back,” Dadeville’s Daine Sharpe said. Still, they all would do it again, and most of them have. Alexander City native Larkin Radney renovated his first downtown building – the Main Street storefront occupied by Little Black Dress – with his wife Richie 22 years ago. Lake Martin Living 27
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Hometown Christmas Parade December 12, 2016 Alexander City 1. Amy Young, Allen Tidmore, Margaret Jones, Adam Sharpe and John Jones 2. Sammie, Caitlyn and Maddie Walls 3. Chloe Stidham 4. Luke, Rhett and Cale Hanks and Eva Middlebrooks 5. Destiny Grace and Carson Williams 6. John and Dianne Naler, David and Kolby Hand and Brian and Melanie Fuller
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Christmas in the Park December 10, 2016 Charles E. Bailey Sportplex 1. Martha Sue and Bud "Grinch" Champion
2. Alicia, Lainey and Addie Peters and Audrey, Jake and Alice Owens 3. Louis, Sheila, Joseph, Latasha, Jeffery and Haley Ammons 4. Gary, Melissa and Carlee Tapley 5. Dale and Sarah Smith, Shane Wall, Jennifer Bishop, Heather Jones, Jordan Smith, Shelby Wills, Dallas Smith, Kristen Peterson, Kim Pike and Carolyn Jones
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Dadeville Parade December 11, 2016 Courthouse Square 1. Harper Motes 2. Sara Williams and Shaquille Roberson Jr. 3. Santa Claus and Katie Pritchard 4. Lydia Branch, Connie Huff, Jelene Duck, Josh Huff and Joe Joe Huff
5. Megan Tanner, Hali Weimer, Alexis Lee and Natalie Phillips 6. Aven and Tiffany Sanders 7. Rylyn Young-Jackson
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Holiday Hiking December 26, 2016 3
Smith Mountain
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1. Trine, Russel, James, Larry, Deon, Hayley, Hope and Hannah Whitfield 2. Kelli and Ted Gates 3. Taylor Myland and Andrew West with Mia and Chief 4. Charles and Briana Fulford 5. Jacob Iler
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Calendar
THE LAKE REGION
FEATURED EVENT
Run Time!
Get in shape with local charity races With numerous 5K, 10K and 1-mile fun runs scheduled in the coming weeks, it's a great time to get out and support local non-profit organizations and work off some of that holiday weight that’s been adding up since Thanksgiving. The season kicks off in just three weeks when you can enter the Paint the Park for Jody Run in Wetumpka or the Millbrook Mardi Gras Run on Grandview Road in Millbrook. The Paint the Park event is a color run that funds a scholarship program established in memory of Wetumpka High School student and athlete Jody Marie Sanford. The Mardi Gras Run raises funds for missions work at
Critter Crawl 2016
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First United Methodist Church in Millbrook. The following week, join the Critter Crawl at Russell Forest Run 2016 Alabama Nature Center (ANC) in Millbrook. This trail run takes participants through 5 miles of beautiful forest on the grounds of the Alabama Wildlife Federation. The event raises funds for education programs at the ANC Natureplex. Two weeks later, choose the 5K, 10K or 1-mile Fun Run through Russell Forest. This race starts at Russell Crossroads and ends at The Stables with a grits bar, beer, music and awards. The Alexander City Education Foundation benefits from entries in this race. More local races are scheduled throughout the winter and early spring. Check race details for these and other running events at active.com or search for running events in the local newspapers and online. Running is a great way to take care of others while you take care of yourself.
LAKE REGION EVENTS Jan. 17
The Artist Association of Central Alabama
The Artist Association will meet Jan. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Alexander City First Baptist Church.
Jan. 17
Diabetes Workshop
Durbin Chiropractic at 2036 Cherokee Rd., Alexander City, will host the first Prosperity Again Thru Health (PATH) workshop of the year at 11 a.m. with Standard Process Representative Josh VanFleteren. For information call 256-234-4223.
Jan. 17
Mend Thy Every Flaw
Local photographer Barry Chrietzberg will lead a demonstration on digital photography at this month’s Tuesdays with Kelly program at noon in the second floor Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery at 408 S. Main St., Wetumpka. Beverages and desserts will be provided. For information, visit thekelly.org or email thekelly36092@ gmail.com.
Feb. 4
New Water Volunteer Day
There are a lot of tasks that need to be addressed for spring at the farm, so come on out for a day of work and fellowship from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch wil be provided. Please contact Callan Freese at callanfreese@aol.com to let her know you're coming and help her get an accurate count for lunch. New Water Ministries is located at 460 Civitan Rd., Dadeville.
Feb. 4
Paint the Park for Jody Run
Proceeds from this run, named for Wetumpka High School student and athlete Jody Marie Sanford, will benefit a scholarship program set up in her honor. This 5K run starts at 9 a.m. at Gold Star Park. Registration fee is $35 until Jan. 25 when the entry fee goes up to $40. Sign up at runsignup.com.
Feb. 4
8th Annual Millbrook Mardi Gras Run
Register online at active.com for this 1-mile, 5K and 8K race to benefit the missions work at First United Methodist Church in Millbrook. Early registration is $30. Race day registration and bag pick up is 6:30 a.m. The 5K and 8K races start at 8:30 a.m. and the 1-mile starts at 9:45 a.m. at Grandview YMCA on Grandview Road.
Feb. 11
2017 Miss Winter Pageant
The 2017 Miss Winter Pageant will be held on Feb. 11 at 2 p.m. at the Dadeville High School auditorium. Rehearsals will take place Friday, Feb. 10 at 5 p.m. Applications may be picked up at Little Lambs and Ivy Day School or by emailing Sherri Williams at misswinterpageant@gmail.com.
Feb. 11
Critter Crawl
This 5K trail event takes runners through a portion of the Alabama Nature Center’s (ANC) trail system to benefit education programs. In addition to the 5K run and a 1-mile fun run, there will be music, food, vendors and even a costume contest with prizes for the winners. Early registration is $25 for the 5K and $20 for the 1-mile. No pets, please. Race packets available for pick up Feb. 10 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at ANC in Millbrook. The 5K starts at 9 a.m., and the 1-mile race starts at 10 a.m.; both races start and finish at the ANC Natureplex. Register at www.active. com. For information, visit www. alabamawildlife.org or call 334-2854550.
Feb. 21
Ring of Fire: The Johnny Cash Story
From the iconic songbook of Johnny Cash comes this unique musical about love, faith and family sponsored by
Alex City Arts. More than two dozen of his classic hits, including the title tune, are performed by a multitalented cast, painting a portrait of “The Man in Black” that promises to be a foot-stomping, crowd-pleasin’ salute to a unique American legend. Johnny Cash’s remarkable life story is told through his music, climaxing in a concert that will both move and exhilerate. Tickets are $15; students admitted free at Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium at 7 p.m.
Feb. 25
Russell Forest Run
Help to support local education through the annual 5K and 10K Russell Forest Run at Russell Crossroads. There will be prizes for age categories and the famous grits bar and beverages at the post-race party at The Stables. The 10K race will start at 7:45 a.m., and the 5K at 7:55 a.m. Entry fee for the 10K is $40; entry fee for the 5K is $20. Register at active.com. For information, call Robert Gunn at 256397-1019.
March 17
Tribute to the Music of the Eagles
A stunning tribute to the music of the Eagles, 7 Bridges Band will perform at 7 p.m. in the Bejamin Russell High School Auditorium. Using no backing tracks or harmonizers, 7 Bridges Band recreates the experience of an Eagles concert from the band’s most prolific period. 7 Bridges Band is a tour de force of talent, combining incredible musicianship, vocal precision and a stage presence that has garnered them national attention.
March 18
Lake Martin Ultra 100
No walk in the park, Lake Martin’s endurance trail race at Russell Crossroads includes distance options at 100, 50 and 27 miles. Registration for all races is now open at lakemartin100mile.homestead.com. Lake Martin Living 41
Racers arrive from across the country for this uniquely beautiful trail on the ultra circuit. The entire race is run in Russell Forest on carriage paths and gravel roads that are not accessible to automobile traffic. Aid stations will be set up along the trail and this year will include sandwiches, hot soup, hot chocolate, coffee and more. A great race for a beginner ultra runner. Entry fee for the 100-mile race is $200 until Jan. 31 ($220 after the end of January); the 50-mile race fee is $90 until Jan. 31 ($100 after); and the entry fee for the 27-mile race is $45 now ($55 after Jan. 31). See the website for details, schedule and contact information for race organizer David Tosch.
Season-Long Events Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store
Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m.
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to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children's Hospital. Call 334-8572008 for more information.
Ladies’ Book Club
Ladies 18 and older are invited to participate in the club at Adelia M. Russell Library on the last Thursday of every month. Meet in the conference room at 4:00 p.m. Call the library at 256-234-4644 for each month’s book title.
Electronics Recycling
The City of Alexander City Public Works Department hosts an electronics recycling event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Items accepted include computers, computer mouse, keyboards, modems or routers, CD and DVD players, power supplies, PC mix systems, home or cell phones, printers or copiers, mainframe servers, audio/ video adapters, laptop chargers, cable boxes, nickel cadmium or lithium ion batteries and flat screen monitors
and televisions. CRT monitors and televisions are no longer accepted. For more information, call the Alexander City Public Works Department at 256409-2020.
Charity Bingo
Play charity bingo at Jake's Restaurant at 16 Broad St., Alexander City, at 6 p.m. every Thursday night. Cards are $1 and proceeds benefit local charities.
Music at The Equality Performing Arts Center
The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the second and fourth Friday nights of each month at 6:30 p.m. on Alabama Highway 9 in Equality. For more information, contact Wayne Glenn at 334-541-3302.
Real Island Supper
The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room, 1495 Real Island Rd., Equality. Everyone is welcome. Admission is $3 per adult; bring a covered dish to share. Some nights are “themed,” so call ahead to find out if costumes or certain types of food are in order. For more information, call 256-329-8724.
Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours
Naturalist Marianne Hudson fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl, just to mention a few. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature in the wild and the outdoor classroom. Your children will love every minute. Check the calendar at Calendar. RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.
Clearance on Select Premium Outdoor Furniture
Recliners starting at $399
Queen Euro Top Bedding Sets starting at $499
Lake Martin Living 43
9
Goldville 280
Goodwater To Sylacauga
Legend
TALLAPOOSA COUNTY
63
New Site
Public Boat Ramps 22
280
Churches
Camps & Parks
Timbergut Landing
9
32
Power lines
280
27
U.S. Highways County Roads
20
Alexander City
6
22
Flint Hill Church
Camp ASCCA
Alex City Boat Ramp
18 36 34
Rockford
3
49
128
22
Piney Woods Landing
Wind Creek 63 State Park
COOSA COUNTY
Horseshoe National P
Jaybird Landing
35
28
Jacksons Gap
Pleasant Grove Church
11
9
Mt. Zion Church Russell Farms Baptist Church Friendship Church New Hope Church
259
Bethel Church
D.A.R.E. Park Landing
31 57
37
5
Smith Landing
Willow Point
10 26 11
9
Seman
4 Camp Kiwanis
9
Church in The Pines
Children’s Harbor
Trillium
The Amp
29 33 42
80
16
Church of the Living Waters
The Ridge
17 1
22
14
Camp Alamisco
Kowaliga Boat Landing 55
Pleasant Ridge Church
34
63
Equality
231
25
12
Liberty Church
20
24
Dadevill
280
Ko w
ali
ga
13
2
Union Landing
Ba
y
Lake Martin 23 Baptist Church 24
15
Stillwaters
30 8
7
40
Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church
38 39
Walnut Hill
Union
90
50
Central
Red Hill
21 63
Union Church
Refuge Church 229
49
Eclectic Santuck Kent
Reeltown
231
14
ELMORE COUNTY
120
14
41 14
Lake Martin Region Wetumpka
44 Lake Martin Living
Tallassee 229
MACON COUNTY
Marinas
Daviston
1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 2 The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300 450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
22
te
33. River North Marina 256-397-1500 250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 4 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741 2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026 5 Smith Marina 256-444-8793
seshoe Bend tional Park
6 Alex City Marine Sales and Service 256-215-3474 2190 Cherokee Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 7 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853
CHAMBERS COUNTY
deville
25
CON NTY
50
Camp Hill
8 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550 486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026
35 Hilltop Landscaping Brian Fuller 256-397-4457 • Eric Brown 256-397-2811 256-329-1901 • 1516 Tallapoosa St., Alex City, AL 35010
15 Truman's Seafood & Catfish 334-567-3156 8185 Central Plank, Santuck, AL
Business & Shopping
19 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036 230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850 20 Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567 1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 21 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132 1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
Loachapoka
22 Lake Martin Mini Mall 334-857-3900 7995 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
14
31 Centry 21 Lake Area Realty 256-825-4800 440 N Broadnax St., Dadeville, AL 36853 32 Ballard Truss INC 256-234-4511 915 Pankersley Rd., Kellyton, AL 35089
11 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070 17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
18 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481 5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, Al 35010
LEE COUNTY
30 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133 6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853
34 Bodyworks Massage & Spa 256-395-0442 282 Dadeville Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
16 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 19
29 Kowaliga Whole Health & Pet Care Resort 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
Restaurants
14 Oskar's Cafe 6684 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853
50
28 McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583 1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010
10 SpringHouse 256-215-7080 12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
13 Harbor Docks Restaurant at Anchor Bay Marina 334-639-4723 2001 Castaway Island Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
Waverly
27 Dark Insurance 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010
33 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
12 Homeplate Cafe 256-825-0583 191 East South St., Dadeville, AL 36853
280
26 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333 111 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
36 Foshee What's, LLC 256-234-3298 2802 Dadeville Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 37 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt@ Smith's Marina 256-444-8793
Hotels & Lodges 38 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440 6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 39 Creekside Event Center 256-307-1441 7051 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853
Churches 40 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820 8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 41 Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 334-252-8618 2602 Gilmer Avenue, Tallassee, AL 36078
Dock Builders 42 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443 180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
23 Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853
Notasulga 85 81
24 EastLake Coffee @ Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 25 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256 350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853
If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-234-4281. Space is limited.
Lake Martin Living 45
You do the dreaming, We’ll do the rest.
A Rustic-themed inn minutes from Lake Martin. Guests enjoy: • Professionally designed suites • Chef inspired menu • Limousine Rental Book your event today! • Holiday parties • Showers • Bridge club • Prayer meetings • Weddings You name it and we will accommodate!
(256) 596-4017 5833 Hwy 22 E, Alexander City, AL 35010 www.cherokeebendbb.com
46 Lake Martin Living
BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
Lake Martin Living 47
DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE OF LAKE MARTIN LIVING! Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy. ALEXANDER CITY
Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Que Campus of CACC Carlisle's Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart Emporium Wine Grace’s Flowers Hampton Inn Holley’s Home Furnishings Hometown Pharmacy Jackson Drugs Jake’s JR’s Sports Bar & Grill Koon’s Korner Koon’s Korner II Lake Martin Building Supply Lakewinds Golf Club Larry’s General Store Little Black Dress Longleaf Antiques Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot USAmeribank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon
48 Lake Martin Living
DADEVILLE
American Watersports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foodland Foshee Boat Dock Homeplate Restaurant Harbor Pointe Marina Lakay’s Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Community Hospital Lakeshore Discount Pharmacy Lakeside Marina Niffer's At The Lake Oskar's Cafe Payne Furniture Pearson’s Place Poplar Dawgs Public Library Pug's Place PNC Bank Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 USAmeribank
ECLECTIC
Children’s Harbor Cotton’s BBQ Eclectic Do-It Center Johnson’s Furniture Kowaliga Marina Lake Martin Dock Lake Martin Mini Mall Nail’s Convenience Store Peoples Bank
EQUALITY
Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star
KELLYTON
Five Star Plantation
RED HILL Citgo
TALLASSEE
Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce The Tallassee Tribune
WALNUT HILL
Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery
WETUMPKA
The Wetumpka Herald To be sure a copy is reserved for you, call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281 for a subscription.
AD INDEX A&M Plumbing.................................................................................... 6
Lake Martin Building Supply.............................................................. 2 4
Alex City Marine................................................................................ 1 7
Lake Martin Community Hospital......................................................... 2
APCO Employees Credit Union............................................................ 3
Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 19, 47
Better Bodies Massage....................................................................... 2 4
Lake Martin Medspa.......................................................................... 2 5
Blue Horizon Travel............................................................................ 2 4
Lake Martin Mini Mall........................................................................ 5 1
Bob Alexander Landscaping................................................................. 5
Madison House Restoration............................................................... 2 5
Bodyworks Massage & Spa................................................................ 2 5
Mark King's Furniture........................................................................ 4 3
Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation........................................................... 6
Millstone Nursery................................................................................. 6
C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 4 2
Noel Boone........................................................................................ 2 5
Cherokee Bend Bed & Breakfast........................................................ 4 6
Prime Management........................................................................... 3 1
Cotney Jewelers................................................................................. 2 4
Radney Funeral Home.......................................................................... 8
Cottage Gallery................................................................................. 2 5
Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6
DAVCO Development........................................................................ 4 7
Russell Lands..................................................................................... 5 1
Designs by Trish................................................................................... 6
Russell Medical.................................................................................. 5 2
Edith's Boutique................................................................................ 2 5
Satterfield, Inc.............................................................................. 5, 25
Fermenter's Market........................................................................... 2 5
Southern Sash..................................................................................... 8
Four Seasons Irrigation....................................................................... 4 7
Studio Sam Hair Salon....................................................................... 2 4
George Hardy, D.M.D........................................................................ 4 2
Southern Star Alpaca Farm................................................................ 2 4
Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance...................................................... 4 7
Sparkle Window Cleaning Services.................................................... 4 6
Jackson Thornton............................................................................. 1 2
Summer Village................................................................................. 1 7
Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art....................................................... 3 5
Tallassee Community Hospital.............................................................. 5
Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance.................................................................4 7
The Sure Shot.................................................................................... 2 4
Kelley’s Heating & Air........................................................................ 4 7
Troy Cable........................................................................................... 8
Lagasse Construction Inc................................................................... 4 6
UAB Heart & Vascular........................................................................ 3 3
Lake Martin Living 49
I’ve Tried Everything
Y
In pursuit of a good night’s sleep The Last Word
vows about her having to deal with a human San ou guys mind if I talk about sleep in Andreas Fault line. this column? Melatonin has been a slight help on occasion. You know, you couldn’t stop me It’s over-the-counter stuff and natural (or so the if you wanted to. Yes, I see the irony in a internet tells me), but I need a baby’s handful column that induces drowsiness as it covers of it to be effective. I have also been prescribed the topic of sleep. more powerful medication, and it does work but Anyhoo, despite 44 years of practice, I not without consequences. am the world’s worst sleeper. I mean I am The first pill I was prescribed worked great, just terrible at it. but it dang near wiped my memory cleaner than It seems so darn easy, too! How can I Hillary Clinton’s email. Every morning was a keep screwing up this instinctual activity? I total re-boot. (Hmm … Now that I think about have tried everything to sleep better, too. Luke Robinson my history of embarrassing myself, maybe that For instance, I have tried getting 40 was a good thing.) winks with and without the On that medicine, I slept hard. TV on. With it on, there are Real hard. Slept harder than a obvious distractions from frozen Cialis diamond at boot the light and movement. camp. But it got to the point that Then there is the volume I couldn’t remember things, like issue: If the volume is high my cousin, even if he was named enough to hear clearly, “Ginko Biloba.” I was literally it may keep me up even forgetting to put pants on before more; if it is too low, my I went to Walmart (at least, that ears naturally try harder was my story to the judge in to hear what is being said, court). thus creating the same The funny thing is I am insomniac-like effect. generally not totally awake at Without the TV, my mind constantly races like Usain Bolt in a hamster wheel. bedtime. I go to bed early and drift into some not-alert/ “Did I switch over the laundry?” “Could a hover board not-comatose purgatory. My wife would tell you quickly that I wouldn’t be able to stay up for The Tonight Show support a man of my carriage?” “What the heck was with Jimmy Fallon, even if Kate Upton were guaranteed to Peter Piper going to do with all of those pickled peppers have a wardrobe malfunction. anyway?” The problem is, I wake up about every hour or two, The other problem is I am a mover and shaker. Not checking the clock. There’s usually no reason; I just do it. in the business sense; in a literal, physical way. My legs It’s pretty frustrating. are like fleshy Red Bull. I shake like a scared maraca 98 So, if you have some country, old-fashioned sleep percent of the day whether I am awake or asleep. I move remedy out there, I am all ears. Daddy is tired. so much that I am a threat to wake myself up from a slumber at any given time of the night. ~ Luke Robinson is an Alexander City native who also I definitely wake my wife up that way. She does not writes a weekly column for The Alexander City Outlook. take it well – nor should she. There was nothing in our
The first pill I was prescribed worked great, but it dang near wiped my memory cleaner than Hillary Clinton’s email.
50 Lake Martin Living
LAKE MARTIN MINI MALL We Sell The Big Green Egg! Gift With BGE Purchase!
Free Set-u p & Deliver y On BGE
5% Sales Tax
We Believe in Quality Products Wed. - Fri. 10-5 • Sat. 9-4 • Sun. 1-5 7995 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 • 334.857.3900 www.LakeMartinMiniMall.com Lake Martin Living 51
TOTAL FITNESS
Summer slim down begins now! • No contract • No enrollment fees • Aquatic exercise classes & open swim • 2 fitness gyms & an aerobics room • Fitness assessment • Strength training • Personalized health assessment & wellness plan • Only local indoor pool
Jump in with Total Fitness! Pick your favorite class or try them all! AQUATICS •
Fitness Specialists: Cara Tidwell, Hunter Lewis and Amy Jones
Our fitness instructors can customize an exercise regimen for your personal needs. Call Cara Tidwell, Fitness Coordinator, for more information at (256) 329-7624 or visit www.russellcares.com. 52 Lake Martin Living
• Synergy Seniors • Arthritis • Aqua Fit • Boot Camp • Intense Aquatics • NoodleBlast • Strong Bones • Tabata Water • Strength & Conditioning
LAND AEROBICS • Zumba • Athletic Circuits • Bootcamp Core • Step • Total Body • Cardio 2 Go • Tabata Bootcamp • Booty Camp • Pilates • Linear Progression • Power Step/Axis Transform