Lake Martin Living May 2026

From the Editor’s Desk

As an avid runner, former athlete and outdoor enthusiast, living a healthy lifestyle is a common conversation around my household. While I may not always follow the best diet, and occasionally balance out a Snickers bar for breakfast with a salad at lunch, I’ve always said I want to live to be at least 100 years old – and do my best to stay on track for that goal.

Typically when I think about health, it comes in the form of food, exercise and mental wellbeing – but the clothes I wear never really crossed my mind to factor into a healthy lifestyle. That is, until recently.

Last month, Russell Crossroads hosted world-renowned fashion designer Jeff Garner, who is on a mission to challenge the “toxic” fabrics, dyes and practices commonly used throughout the fashion industry. With his designs appearing on runways in Paris, London and Milan, Garner’s recent appearance in Alabama can now officially add Sylacauga and Alexander City to his impressive catwalk list.

With help of local leadership and volunteers, The Stables at Russell Crossroads was transformed into a runway for Garner’s eco-friendly couture collection, while also embracing and empowering our local community through a fashion show unlike anything our area had seen before. Turn to page 20 to learn more about Garner’s sustainable fashion mission and the inspiring event at Russell Crossroads.

We also highlight another community leader a little closer to home as Karen Treadwell was recently recognized as the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Woman of the Year. Turn to page 30 to get to know Treadwell and her lasting impact in the community.

Then dance your way over to page 34 as our team highlights the 25-year anniversary of Waverly’s beloved Old 280 Boogie, presented by Standard Deluxe. With a backstory as unique as the event itself, the festival has grown from a small downtown celebration into one of the region’s most cherished annual traditions.

And of course, with Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, summertime fun is also beginning to heat up. Flip to page 18 for a lineup of local events to add to your bucket list this season.

From inspiring local leaders to beloved community traditions, our magazine team hopes this month’s issue is as fun to flip through as the events and people featured inside.

Editor-in-Chief

LAKE MARTIN

Chairman

Kenneth Boone

General Manager

Tippy Hunter

Editor-in-Chief

Shaylee Beck Moore

Creative Services

Audra Spears

Business & Digital Development

Angela Mullins

Contributors

Kenneth Boone

Audra Spears

Sam Vise

Lacey Howell

Shane Harris

George Miranda

Gina Abernathy

Teresa Grier

Lizi Arbogast

Cliff Williams

Samuel Higgs

Gwen Bishop

Ana Sofia Meyer

Sarah Chase

Audience Development Manager

Baily Terry

Marketing/Advertising

Renee Trice

Erin Vickers

Abbie Clayton

Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011

256-234-4281

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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. 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. For advertising call 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses. Subscriptions are $75 annually.

Known for his sustainable and eco-friendly fashion, world-renowned designer Jeff Garner brought his Renaissance-inspired couture collection to Russell Crossroads for a volunteer-driven event that inspired and empowered the community.

Photo by Shaylee Beck Moore

18. Homegrown Summer Fun

Explore a vibrant season of local festivities, from high-stakes rodeos to birthday barbecues.

20. Finding Hope through Fashion

From London runways to Russell Crossroads, designer Jeff Garner brings his eco-friendly couture collection to Alabama for a one-of-a-kind community fashion show.

30. Raising Hands, Lifting Others 2026 Woman of the Year Karen Treadwell shares her lifelong mission of empowering women and fostering community growth.

34. Don’t Stop the Boogie

The town of Waverly celebrated 25 years of its flagship event, showcasing live music, vendors and artisans while commemorating a historical moment for the community.

IN EVERY ISSUE

New Site walking track complete

New Site Mayor Phil Blasingame knows the projects around the small town would never see the light of day without a lot of help.

A project Blasingame and the town council have been working on for more than five years is finally complete –with a ribbon on top.

The town held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its walking track, complete with rest benches, trash cans, a picnic table and a LifeFlight landing pad.

“I was told early in my banking career, you need to surround yourself with good people because that’ll get you a long way,” Blasingame said. “This is a classic example.”

The mayor recognized the help the town received from the

New roof for ACT II

Thanks to a $65,000 grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, Alexander City Theatre II was able to recently fund a project for a new roof, completed in early May. The grant helped replace the failing structure and secure the theater building so ACT II can continue serving the community with safe, sustainable and growing arts programs.

With these funds, ACT II secured more than a roof –it secures the organization’s future. The investment allowed ACT II to keep opening doors for children, families and adults to experience the arts.

“This grant was critical to the future of community theater in Alexander City,” said Karen Jennings, ACT

II Board Member. “After 11 years, we knew the truth: if we didn’t secure this roof, we'd lose everything we’ve worked so hard to build.

A theater without a roof becomes an empty, dying structure – and that’s not the story this community deserves.

“ASCA’s support gave us the chance to protect this building, keep growing and make sure the arts stay alive here. It means our kids, our families and our adults will continue to have a place to learn, create and belong. This grant gives us a future we can count on, and I’m determined to sustain ACT II for the better days that can and will come for this community.”

~ Staff Report

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, Coosa Valley Resource Conservation & Development Council, East Alabama Planning Commission, Tallapoosa County District 3 commissioner John McKelvey, State Sen. Jay Hovey and State Rep. Ed Oliver.

“We always want our citizens to have everything that everybody else has,” Blasingame said. “The community is going to use the walking track a lot, and it’s a safe place to bring their family.”

~ Gwen Bishop

Built with Purpose Team Depot volunteers built a ramp for Air Force veteran Gerald Atchinson at his home in a single day.

Community of Kindness

An Air Force veteran now has a new accessibility ramp thanks to a community effort sparked by his daughter, Kayla Atchinson. Concerned for her father Gerald, who has Parkinson’s disease, Kayla reached out to Lake Martin Area United Way director Courtney Layfield for help.

Layfield connected with local partners, and the Alexander City Civitan Club took on the project. After learning Gerald was a veteran, the group secured grant funding from the Home Depot Foundation, and Team Depot volunteers built the ramp in a single day.

“I have to give God all the credit in the world,” Gerald said. “He has guided me here, and it is amazing.”

~ Sarah Chase

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Elevate the Ride

The winding roads of the region offer some of the most scenic drives in Alabama, but for anyone trying to navigate after a long event or a celebration with friends, they can also present a significant challenge.

As the summer season shifts into high gear, the usual questions resurface: Who is driving? How is the whole group getting to the venue? And, most importantly, how is everyone getting home safely?

For Jeff Humphries, an Alexander City resident and local entrepreneur, the answer became clear after noticing a gap in local services. While the area thrives on seasonal energy and high-end events, Humphries said it lacked reliable, professional transportation.

To fill that void, he and his wife, Sarah, launched Lake Martin Lift – a luxury transportation and rideshare service tailored specifically to meet the needs of local residents and visitors.

“There is so much to do in this area and so many different great venues and events going on,” Humphries said. “I just saw a need for it. There’s no cab service, there’s no Ubers, there’s no Lyfts. A lot of my wife’s clients and my mortgage clients live here, and a lot of them don’t go out or attend our area’s awesome events because there’s no rideshare service.”

Though Humphries and his family are relatively new to the community – having moved here in 2021 – they have quickly become deeply woven into the local business fabric. The couple moved from Louisiana after he spent time gold mining in Nevada. Today, they manage a diverse portfolio of local businesses.

non-negotiables of the operation. The service employs a roster of professional drivers who undergo thorough background checks and drug testing.

“I want a car that picks you up and you know who you’re getting in with,” Humphries said. “These are vetted drivers who are dressed nice, professional and courteous. It’s something special that goes along with what our community already has to offer.”

To ensure the service is as flexible as possible, Humphries has structured the business to accommodate both spontaneous outings and planned events. While a dedicated mobile app is currently in the final stages of approval, users can easily access the service through the TaxiCaller app using a specific company code found on the official website.

The service is divided into two primary categories to best serve the community: daily rideshare and reserved private transportation.

Humphries serves as the branch manager for Edge Home Finance in Alexander City, while Sarah operates a popular local salon and spa. Their entrepreneurial spirit has been passed down, as their oldest daughter owns Alex City Nutrition.

For Humphries, launching a transportation service was a natural extension of his commitment to the people who live and work alongside him.

“I want to take care of our people, my local people,” he said. “I’m not really interested in expanding out too much on the rideshare side to places like Auburn or Birmingham. I want to take care of the folks here first.”

The service is positioned as a high-end experience, offering a level of comfort and reliability that distinguishes it from national platforms. The current fleet comprises luxury SUVs chosen for their spacious interiors and smooth handling, including a Cadillac Escalade, a GMC Yukon XL and a Jeep Wagoneer.

Driven to Serve

And the growth hasn’t stopped there. Humphries is already looking toward the peak summer months to ensure the service can handle larger groups and special occasions. As he recently shared, “the fleet consists of several luxury SUVs with a party bus on the way and more vehicles coming.”

Facing Page: Jeff and Sarah Humphries launched Lake Martin Lift to provide reliable local transportation.

Safety and professionalism are the

Daily rideshare is an on-demand service is ideal for quick trips to a local restaurant or a neighbor’s home. It is booked through the TaxiCaller app and is charged a minimum fee plus a per-mile rate. This option provides a premium experience at a cost similar to an “Uber Black” service.

Reserved private transportation is best for those planning ahead for weddings, professional tours or multi-day gatherings, where dedicated vehicles can be reserved in advance via the Lake Martin Lift website. These bookings are handled at a per-hour charge, ensuring a dedicated vehicle and driver stay with the group for the entire duration of their event.

“We’ve had a lot of people reach out with reserved bookings for weddings,” Humphries said. “I even have one guy who wants to book a vehicle dedicated to him and his friends for three days straight during the Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival.”

Humphries said the response from the public has been immediate and enthusiastic. A soft launch during a local wedding expo confirmed that the community was ready for a more professional way to get around.

Beyond local rides, Humphries is currently finalizing plans to launch airport shuttles to and from Montgomery, Birmingham and eventually Atlanta in the coming weeks as well as gameday rides to Tuscaloosa and Auburn in the fall. This will offer a seamless transition for the million-plus visitors the area attracts annually, as well as for residents heading out on their own travels.

Ultimately, Humphries sees the service as a preventive measure that enhances the quality of local life.

“Safety is number one,” he said. “It’s just a matter of time before things happen out there with people drinking and driving that could have been prevented. We want to create something that the people in this area can have access to, so they don’t have to take those risks.”

Operating peak hours Thursday through Sunday, book an on-demand ride through the TaxiCaller phone app with company code 368846 or plan ahead at lakemartinlift.us.

Elements to a business succession plan Planning for Retirement?

For many small business owners, especially those operating independently, the success of the business rests on their shoulders. But what happens when it’s time to step away?

A thoughtful succession plan serves as your business’ safety net. It outlines how leadership and operations will continue if you retire, become unable to lead or pass ownership to the next generation.

Since Alabama follows a traditional probate system, it’s even more important to establish a plan. If a business owner passes away or becomes incapacitated without an established plan, ownership can be frozen in probate court – and even the most successful businesses can face disruption.

In my experience working with local business owners, the most effective succession plans include the following key elements.

Establish a clear timeline

Start by identifying when the transition should take place. This includes both a target retirement date and contingency triggers, such as illness or disability.

Planning ahead gives you greater control over the transition process and allows time to prepare your team, customers and financial structure.

Identify your successor early

If you have potential successors in mind, begin those conversations as soon as possible. Whether it’s a family member, business partner or key employee, alignment is critical.

It’s also important to ensure your business succession plan aligns with your estate plan. Personal documents govern ownership shares, but they don’t address how day-to-day operations will continue. Both should work together seamlessly.

Organize financial information

MONEY

MATTERS

A strong succession plan includes a clear financial picture of the business. This means keeping records such as tax returns, financial statements and outstanding debts organized and up to date.

You should also include a business valuation to provide an estimate of the company’s worth. This helps successors understand the financial health of the organization and supports informed decision-making.

Document key operations

Your business should be able to function without you. That starts with documenting how it runs.

Consider including:

• Standard operating procedures

• An organizational chart

• An operation manual

• An employee handbook

The more clarity you provide, the easier it will be for new leadership to step in and maintain continuity.

Plan for funding the transition

Ownership transfers often come with financial considerations. Whether the transition involves a sale, partnership buyout or family transfer, outline how it will be funded.

Having a funding strategy in place helps avoid uncertainty and ensures the transition does not disrupt operations.

Outline key relationships

Strong businesses rely on more than internal leadership. Include a list of key external partners such as bankers, suppliers, legal advisers and consultants. These relationships are essential to maintaining stability and can provide valuable support during the transition.

Preserve your legacy

A well-structured succession plan does more than protect operations – it preserves the legacy you’ve worked hard to build.

Communicating your plan early with stakeholders helps build confidence and ensures everyone understands the path forward. Transitions are inevitable, but with the right preparation, they can be seamless.

Working with the right financial partner can also make a difference. A trusted commercial banker can connect you with legal, tax and wealth management professionals to support every stage of the process.

From large organizations to small businesses, Valley’s Wealth Management team is here to support your succession strategy. Reach out to your local Valley Bank team to begin planning.

~ Teresa Grier is vice president, market manager, at Valley Bank, Alexander City branch. She has been banking in the area for more than 35 years.

* Any views, thoughts and opinions expressed herein are solely that of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Valley National Bank. This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as specific advice for any individual or business. Valley National Bank does not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. Please consult your legal, tax and/or accounting advisors before making any financial decisions.

YELLOW RICE CORN CASSEROLE

GOOD EATS

Summertime is just around the corner, and that calls for simple, comforting dishes that don’t keep you tied to the kitchen. As Memorial Day approaches and grills start firing up across backyards, this yellow rice and corn casserole is the kind of recipe that earns a spot on the table. It’s a dish you can pull together without stress, leaving you more time to enjoy the sunshine and your guests.

I remember the first time I made this casserole for a family cookout. It wasn’t planned or fancy. I was trying to stretch what I had in the pantry into something tasty that would feed my family. The grill was already going, the burgers were sizzling and I needed a side dish that didn’t require much fuss. That’s when this dish came together, and it disappeared faster than anything else on the table. It quickly became one of those recipes I knew I could count on and would always be a hit, no matter the occasion.

This casserole pairs nicely with grilled meats like barbecue chicken, burgers, hot dogs or even smoked sausage. It sits right alongside baked beans, coleslaw and potato salad without competing for attention, while also adding a warm option that balances all the fresh and chilled sides. It’s a very versatile dish, perfect for summer and can be made ahead and still taste just as good when served.

For me, casseroles shine more during the summer months – especially this one. The yellow rice adds seasoning and color, while the corn adds sweetness and texture. It’s quick to assemble, easy to transport and holds up on the table. If you’re looking for something dependable, this casserole fits right in and is a reminder that sometimes the simplest dishes leave the biggest impression.

This Memorial Day, as we gather with family and friends, take a few moments to remember and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. May we reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of their bravery, and let it be a reminder of the true meaning behind the day. May it be filled with gratitude, remembrance and the simple joy of time well spent with the people who matter most.

~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.

INGREDIENTS

1 5-ounce package yellow rice

1 15-ounce can whole kernel corn, drained

1 10-ounce can cream of mushroom soup

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup melted butter

DIRECTIONS

Cook rice according to package directions. If it calls for butter, omit the butter. Combine the rice with corn, melted butter and soup in a bowl; mix well. Spoon into a greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish and top with cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly, with the cheese melted.

TIPS & TIDBITS

• Make ahead: Want to get ahead? Mix the ingredients and store covered in the fridge until you are ready to bake. Just add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

• Drain the corn well: This is important. Too much liquid will make the dish soupy.

• Double the recipe: You may want to double this recipe if you plan to make it for family gatherings, church socials or family reunions.

SUMMER FUNHomegrown

Bucket-list events to make this a summer to remember

STORY BY SAM VISE & PHOTOS BY TPI STAFF

There is a certain kind of energy that buzzes through the streets as the first true heat of May settles into Tallapoosa County. It isn’t just the rising temperatures; it’s the anticipation of a community that knows its busiest and most vibrant season is about to begin.

From the historic bricks of local downtowns to the expansive arena floors of the region’s newest venues, the upcoming summer months offer an itinerary that turns the community into a hub of entertainment, philanthropy and local connection.

This summer kicks off with a powerful tribute to service and community during the Memorial Day weekend festivities.

On Sunday, May 24, the fourth annual Shake the Lake event brings an exciting energy to Dadeville. Held from 5 p.m. to midnight at Martin’s at Lake Martin, this family-friendly event features the sounds of Blackberry Breeze and The Burn Downs.

With $15 tickets (children 12 and under are free) and a limited capacity, it’s an opportunity to dance the night away while supporting local veterans through organizations like American Legion Post 143 and Service Dogs Alabama. Visit the Martin’s at Lake Martin Facebook page for updates or to purchase tickets.

As the region moves into the final days of May, the energy shifts toward the dusty floors of the new Tallapoosa County

Agribusiness Center in Jackson’s Gap. On May 29 and 30, the annual Lake Martin Rodeo arrives, bringing with it a level of excitement that only bucking bulls and championship roping can provide.

For organizers Terrance Crayton and Jordan Melson, this year represents a significant milestone as the event finds its permanent home in the state-of-the-art Agribusiness Center.

“We won’t have to worry about the elements anymore – getting rained on, those types of things,” Crayton said, emphasizing how the new facility elevates the experience for both spectators and the athletes traveling from across the Southeast to compete for nearly $9,000 in prize money.

The rodeo is a labor of love put on by Benjamin Russell High School FFA alumni and supporters, with every penny raised going directly back to local students.

It’s an affordable family tradition where children under 10 get in free and the atmosphere is thick with the smell of fair food and the sound of a rodeo clown’s banter.

“It’s good old-fashioned family fun,” Melson said. “Alex City has that small-town feel where everybody knows everybody, and it brings the community together in an event that everyone can enjoy – from our elementary schoolers to our local ladies at church.”

Beyond the professional bull riding and barrel racing, the youngest attendees have their own shot at glory through Mutton Busting, a crowd favorite where children under 7 get to test their courage by riding sheep. It’s an evening of grit and heritage that perfectly captures the agricultural roots of the region.

Gates open at 5 p.m. each night for live music and local vendors before the main event kicks off at 7 p.m. Presale tickets are available at Tractor Supply in Alexander City for $15 until sold out. Tickets at the gate will be $20. Youth ages 6 to 18 are $15, and children under the age of 5 receive free admission.

As June arrives, the spotlight turns to Alexander City for the 14th annual Sun Festival, a week-long celebration from June 5 through June 12 that has become the definitive marker of summer for local families.

With 30 events squeezed into eight days, the festival is a masterclass in community engagement. Kim Dunn, vice president of special events and sponsorship at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, said the goal was always to provide high-quality entertainment without a financial burden.

“Most of the events are free to attend, so it’s something you can do with your entire family and not have to worry about costs,” Dunn said.

From the early-morning excitement of the Medallion Hunt, where residents scour the town for hidden prizes, to the ‘paw’pular Bark in the Park dog parade, the festival turns the city into a playground.

This year’s Sun Festival introduces new activities like downtown yoga and Family Night on Main – a grand finale on June 12 that will close the streets for live music, food trucks and a giant beach ball drop.

year’s barbecue is themed around a massive birthday party to honor both the 100th birthday of Lake Martin and the 250th of the United States.

Bridget Thornell and the Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce have reimagined the traditional barbecue as a social, “let-your-hair-down” event for the whole community.

“I want to bring Alex City, Dadeville, Jackson’s Gap and the entire community together,” Thornell said. “I’m hoping the new location brings more people out.”

For a $20 ticket (children 5 and under are free), guests can enjoy a quintessential summer meal of hamburgers and hot dogs, live music, bouncy houses, face painting, birthday cake and a cash bar.

Visit dadevillechamber.com or call 256-825-4019 for more details or to purchase tickets.

“We want to give people something to do and get people out to enjoy time with friends, family and neighbors,” Dunn said. “It’s about being proud of our community.”

Whether it’s the Tykes and Trucks event, where children can learn about heavy equipment, or the Melon Madness eating contest at Wind Creek State Park, Sun Festival has something for everyone.

Visit the Sun Festival Alexander City Facebook page for updates.

The celebration takes on a more historical tone with the Dadeville Summer BBQ Birthday Bash on Tuesday, June 16, at 5:30 p.m. Also making use of the new Agribusiness Center, this

The summer reaches its crescendo in late July with the sixth annual Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival, a four-day musical journey from July 23 to July 26.

What began as a small showcase has blossomed into a Grammy-sponsored event that draws songwriters from Nashville and beyond. The beauty of this festival lies in its intimate listening atmosphere across different local venues.

As board chairman Steven Pace explained, the festival is about more than just a catchy tune; it’s about the story behind the songs.

“You don’t have to be a star to resonate with people,” Pace said. “This is an opportunity for us to bring in songwriters to showcase their talents and share that with locals.”

The festival intentionally guides attendees on a tour of the entire region, partnering with local restaurants and marinas to ensure that the music reaches every corner of the community. This year’s lineup is headlined by the Marcus King Band at The AMP on July 25, a ticketed event that represents the next ambitious chapter for the festival.

By pairing heavy hitters with rising stars, the festival allows audiences to fall in love with the artists before they ever hit the mainstream radio charts. Visit lakemartinsongwritersfestival. com for more details.

Whether it’s the FFA alumni working rodeo concession stands, the chamber staff inflating beach balls or volunteers coordinating songwriters’ schedules, this summer’s energy is entirely homegrown.

Finding Hope through Fashion

World-renowned designer Jeff Garner brings eco-friendly fashion to Russell Crossroads

While the world of high-end fashion is often associated with revolving trends, luxury labels and synthetic fabrics, worldrenowned designer Jeff Garner has spent decades pushing the industry in a different direction –nature and wellness.

Through his brand Prophetik, Garner has become a pioneer in sustainable couture, using plant-based dyes, eco-friendly fabrics and natural textiles to advocate against what he calls “toxic fashion.”

After presenting his collections on more than 100 global catwalks, including Paris, London and Milan, Garner recently brought that message closer to home, reimagining The Stables at Russell Crossroads into a runway for a one-of-a-kind fashion experience, focused on teaching sustainability and empowering the local community.

“I wanted to showcase a collection and help stir the vision for what we are doing,” Garner said. “Because if I can teach and convert one person and help them change their wardrobe for a healthier tomorrow, I’m all about it.”

While the world may be his main stage, small towns are close to Garner’s heart. Growing up on a horse farm in Franklin, Tennessee, Garner was first introduced to sewing by his grandmother, later inspiring him to begin creating his own style and clothing in high school.

In the late 1990s, Garner began designing outfits for Christian bands, offering musicians a different aesthetic to wear on stage during an era dominated by jeans and T-shirts. His work eventually led to collaborations with famed artists such as Taylor Swift early in her career.

“Women were always wearing tank tops, short skirts and denim at the time,” Garner said. “She always had a more romantic spirit, so we went more ball gown and that kind of style.”

Garner later turned down a full-ride scholarship to West Point Academy and opted to pack up his Jeep and move to California instead, where he took a position with STILETTO Entertainment, a company known for working with artists such as Barry Manilow, Fleetwood Mac and Donna Summer.

As he transitioned from the entertainment industry into high fashion, Garner launched his brand Prophetik, centering his mission around eco-friendly fashion and educating the public.

“I wanted a name that represented something deeper,” Garner said. “This is such a surface-level industry – all about image, money and luxury. I wanted to showcase that we were doing something different.”

Part of what makes Garner’s work so unique is his exclusive use of natural dyes and textiles. Over the course of eight years, Garner studied in Florence, Italy, learning the science behind developing many of his own plant-based dye techniques – often through trial and error.

But his passion for healthier fashion became even more

personal after losing his mother to breast cancer. Through his work, Garner hopes to not only be an advocate for research into the techniques used by the fashion industry, but also inspire people to reconnect with nature and educate themselves on how to incorporate kinder clothing and apparel into their everyday lives.

“I knew I had to do something more to influence the industry and create policy change,” Garner said. “Hopefully people will understand that what they put on their body causes health implications.”

Garner’s first major catwalk appearance came during London Fashion Week in 2008, where Prophetik debuted a 32-piece collection rooted in sustainable fashion. Def Leppard partnered with Garner for the show, while model Cara Delevingne opened the runway shortly before being hired by Burberry for campaigns.

This debut rapidly launched Garner’s career in high fashion.

“I very quickly began doing more couture and trying to showcase that you can do things differently,” Garner said. “I showed a lot in London and New York because they were very supportive of sustainability at that time.”

Garner has also gone on to show at the Tower of London, Edinburgh Castle and for the royal family.

Despite his international success, Garner still finds purpose in reaching audiences in smaller communities –including Sylacauga and Alexander City.

The idea for Garner to come to Alabama began last fall after connecting with Betsy Hosp, founder of Power of One Woman and collaborator with the Sylacauga Grows Community Garden. Hosp had followed Garner’s work for years after first meeting him at an eco-conference in Los Angeles. She resonated deeply with his message after turning to natural wellness and healing practices years ago.

Through conversations with Garner, Hosp learned of his passion for reviving small textile mills and supporting local artisans – a meaningful connection to Alabama, which had once been home to thriving textile communities.

“I was talking to Jeff and said, ‘You know, Alabama was a former textile state,’” Hosp said. “We have Sylacauga, Alexander City and Avondale mills – so I asked if he would want to come talk with us. And he agreed.”

During Earth Week in April, Garner spent several days in Sylacauga teaching more than 150 Talladega County children about sustainable fabrics and natural dyes.

Word of Garner’s upcoming

Alabama visit spread quickly, eventually reaching Karen Kison, wellness director for Russell Lands. Wanting to bring the once-in-a-lifetime experience to her own community, Kison contacted Garner to see if he would extend his trip to Alexander City.

Garner agreed to come and Kison quickly got to work, creating an entirely community-oriented fashion experience at Russell Crossroads – free of charge.

Held at The Stables on April 25, the event transformed the space into a fashion runway, drawing a full house of attendees to experience Jeff Garner’s eco-friendly designs.

Prior to the fashion show, hands-on demonstrations were hosted by Kison, Hosp and Sylacauga community garden staff where guests learned about flower pressing and natural dyeing techniques, using locally sourced materials such as indigo, butterfly pea flowers, turmeric and cypress bark.

“Everything we used for the demonstrations were foraged and donated by local farmers,” Hosp said. “You could literally drink the dyes if you wanted to.”

The fashion show itself embraced the local Alexander City and Dadeville communities, with every participant volunteering their time and talents for the event. Most importantly, the show was an opportunity to empower residents.

Aspiring local hair and makeup artists Reagan West and Madison Myers worked behind the scenes, while models included members of Auburn University’s volleyball team alongside community leaders such as Shay Rogers, Phil Spraggins and Karen Treadwell. Rhonda Gaskins also helped coordinate logistics for the event while David Simpkins and

Empowering People

Facing Page: Locals modeled the runway; Attire was recently shown in London; Clockwise from Top Left: The collection is Renaissanceinspired; Hosp led natural dye demonstrations; Flower pressing designs.

the Main Street Band played live music for the runway experience.

“Everything was completely donated or run by a volunteer,” Kison said. “None of these girls had ever even modeled before. The fact that Jeff was so open to this idea speaks volumes about him as a person. He just believed in what we were doing.”

Models wore pieces from Garner’s most recent collection, “Billy Shakespeare,” which debuted during London Fashion Week in September 2025. The Russell Crossroads fashion show was only the third public presentation of the collection.

“You never know how something like this is going to turn out the first time you do it,” Kison said. “But when I looked around, I saw people smiling, girls being empowered. In the end, the event turned out to be something beautiful for the community.”

While Garner’s work has appeared on some of the world’s biggest runways – and now local ones – he believes education remains one of the most important parts of his mission.

Recently, Jeff Garner has shifted his focus toward film and public awareness through his book and upcoming documentary, “Let Them Be Naked.” The book was for sale at the event, which follows Garner’s personal journey and investigation into the potentially hazardous health impacts of synthetic fabrics and industrial dyes used by the mainstream fashion industry.

“I believe that it is better to be naked than to wear synthetic clothing,” Garner said. “And I want to bring back the power of choice. I think everyone deserves to know what’s in their clothing and how it affects their body.”

Learn more about Garner’s work and mission at prophetik.com.

HOW TO GROW THE BIG TOMATO

Tomatoes are a summer treat and a must-have in the vegetable garden. By early May, most people have already planted tomato plants or are just now getting started. To get to the point where one can pick a nice and lush tomato, a lot of work and care will be required once the tomato plant has been set out or comes up. Managing insects and diseases is a major chore, but fertilizing, mulching, watering and staking may be just as critical, if not more important. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

If you are trying to grow the biggest tomato, the same production practices for most vegetables would still apply. Choose a welldrained site in full sun with a water source close by. Tomatoes need at least six hours of sun, so the more hours of sunlight per day, the better.

Soil test the site several months in advance. A soil test report will recommend how much lime, if any, is needed. More elements are available for the plant at a pH of around 6.2 to 6.3, and it takes time to change the pH of soil with lime, so starting early helps. Lime would need to be applied in advance, but the nitrogen and any needed phosphorus or potassium can be added at planting. The phosphorus does not leach compared to the nitrogen and potassium, so all the recommended phosphorus can be applied at planting. Since nitrogen and potassium leach in the soil, it would be beneficial to apply those elements periodically during the growing season.

Be cautious with applying too much fertilizer. A highnitrogen fertilizer, often found in many liquid versions, is not recommended. Overfertilizing can result in too much growth and foliage and delay flowering and setting fruit. Translation – the result may be all green leaves and few tomatoes. Slow-release fertilizers are designed to provide nutrients in a timelier fashion.

Raised beds with added organic matter would be beneficial. This would improve drainage as well as the air, nutrients and water-holding capacity. Raised beds do dry out faster; therefore, drip irrigation would be beneficial.

Ripe and Ready

Soil testing and plentiful sunlight can help produce juicy tomatoes.

Mulching the plants helps to conserve moisture, regulate hot temperatures, reduce erosion and manage weeds. It also reduces diseases by reducing the amount of water splashing onto the bottom leaves of the plants. Spread 2 to 3 inches of mulch in a circle around the plants once the soil has warmed up and the plants are growing well. Pine straw, grass clippings, newspaper and wheat straw are good choices and will decompose as the season progresses. It can be tilled in later in the

organic matter.

Mulch helps to ensure uniform soil moisture and cuts down on the need for frequent watering; however, during extended dry periods, it may be advisable to water plants in sandy soils at five- to seven-day intervals and plants in clay soils at seven- to 10-day intervals. Watering by hand can be done, but only wet the root zone and do not let the water splash on the plants. Overhead irrigation with sprinklers will increase disease and lower production.

Run sprinklers long enough to wet the soil 6 inches deep. If you apply water faster than the percolation rate of the soil, runoff will occur. In that case, water until runoff, allow the water to soak in and water again one hour later. Continue until the soil is wet to a depth of 5 to 10 inches. Adequate moisture will help maintain uniform production and will reduce blossom-end rot.

Supporting tomato plants in some way as they grow and develop fruit is also a major requirement. There are many specific techniques for supporting tomato plants; however, the two general methods are staking and caging.

Since determinate tomatoes do not grow as tall, they are most often staked. With staking, all flower clusters on a tomato plant usually develop on the same side of the stem. A stake should be placed so that the developing fruit is not crowded between the main stem and the stake. Therefore, do not stake plants until after the first flower cluster is formed. Then drive the stake on the side opposite the flower cluster and about 4 inches away from the base of the plant. Staked tomatoes will usually produce ripe tomatoes earlier in the season than caged tomatoes.

Indeterminate tomato plants do better if surrounded by wire cages; however, a cage should be sturdy and well anchored to the ground. Concrete reinforcing wire provides good support for the plants. A cage should be from 20 to 36 inches in diameter. A length of wire 6 to 9 feet can be used to construct a cage within that size range. In general, a caged tomato plant will produce more but smaller-sized fruit than a staked tomato plant.

Tomatoes are highly susceptible to many insects and diseases, and identifying and managing these pests will be beneficial to the production of fruit. Starting a preventive spray program for disease management will help. Daily scouting and identifying insects as early as possible will aid the management process. Always read and follow label directions on all pesticides.

Most of these practices can be done even if growing the biggest tomatoes possible was not the No. 1 goal; however, if having that prize-winning tomato is the goal, a few additional tips are suggested.

Perfect Pickings

Top to Bottom: Tomato season begins in May; Insects are a common culprit; Tomato diseases can ruin a crop; Facing Page: Early blight is a common fungal disease.

First, plant the right variety. A gardener or farmer will not win the biggest tomato contest by planting cherry tomatoes. Plant a variety that gets large. This may require one to buy and plant seeds from a seed catalog rather than purchasing transplants.

Also, plant with wider spacing between plants in the row and wider spacing between rows. Remove the suckers often, only allowing two main leaders.

GARDEN TALK

Thin the fruit to only one, or at the most two, fruit per plant. Yes, this does mean less fruit, but all the energy will be going to develop one to two big tomatoes rather than dividing it up into several smaller tomatoes.

Whatever your goal is this year –to have the biggest tomato or a bounty of tomatoes –invest in the time and effort and, with a little patience and luck, hopefully you will reap the success.

For help on other home and garden questions, contact your local county Extension office or visit us online at aces.edu.

~ Shane Harris is the County Extension Director for Tallapoosa County, and Dr. Chip East is an Extension Agent for Commercial Horticulture serving East Central Alabama.

Mrs. Doubtfire Thursday, April 9 • 7 p.m.

Friday, April 10 • 7 p.m. Saturday, April 11 • 2 p.m. broadway series

Little River Band Friday, April 24 • 7 p.m. amphitheatre series

Travis Tritt Saturday, May 16 • 7 p.m. amphitheatre series

Steep Canyon Rangers & Della Mae Thursday, May 21 • 7 p.m. amphitheatre series

The Skinny on GLP-1s

Manjauro! Ozempic! Wegovy! No, it’s not the lyrics to a Paul Simon song on “Graceland.” And no, I’m not speaking in tongues – unless pharmaceuticalese is a language. I’m talking about GLP-1 receptor agonists.

GLP-1s – glucagon-like peptide-1s – are synthetically produced versions of a naturally occurring human hormone, and arguably the blockbuster drug of the decade. The hormone functions in three ways: it tells the pancreas to increase insulin production, it tells the stomach to slow down and hold onto its contents a little while longer and it tells the brain that you’re full.

Supplementing your naturally occurring GLP-1 with a synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonist simply turns up the volume on all three of these processes. It’s like pushing the pedal to the metal.

Originally approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a very effective blood sugar regulator for adults with Type 2 diabetes, folks soon discovered an attractive side effect: they were losing 10 percent to 20 percent of their body weight.

Eventually, the FDA approved some of the GLP-1 drugs for weight loss for persons who were clinically overweight or obese – the official definitions being a body mass index of 25 to 29.9 for the former and 30 or higher for the latter. To calculate your BMI, divide your weight in pounds by the square of your height in inches (height times height) and multiply the result by 703. Or ask your fifth grade child to do it – it’ll be faster. If you want to calculate your BMI in kilograms by meters squared, ask your doctor or move to Europe. I calculated my BMI, and it’s none of your dang business. Let’s just say I’d qualify for Blue Cross to pay for Wegovy.

MEDICAL NEWS

George Miranda

Now, you might think that a weight loss drug is a vanity prescription, but in truth, obesity might be the No. 1 health problem in America today, and left untreated, the long-term effects can be deadly. Risks include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, arthritis, gallbladder inflammation, pancreatitis, kidney failure, sexual dysfunction, pregnancy complications and mental health disorders.

And while there is not a proven direct causeand-effect relationship, there is a high correlation between obesity and cancers of the breast, colon, prostate, ovary, endometrium and gallbladder.

Looking at the problem of obesity from an economic angle, the Alabama Department of Public Health estimates that obesity costs the state of Alabama about $7.2 billion per year in direct medical costs and indirect costs, such as absenteeism and lost productivity at work.

It makes sense, counterintuitively, for insurance to cover the cost of weight loss and diabetes medicines if wider utilization of these drugs can bring down that high cost of obesity to the state’s economy.

So, with Alabama being tied with Arkansas for the fourthhighest rate of obesity at 39 percent, that’s 1.9 million adults in a state of only 5 million inhabitants. If you throw in overweight and obese residents together, nearly seven in 10 of us are on the road to weight-related chronic illnesses.

Alabama also ranks fifth in the nation for GLP-1 usage, according to the Montgomery Advertiser newspaper.

One of the first complications of obesity is metabolic syndrome: the tipping point where you may no longer be able to erase your weight with diet and exercise. This is the sweet spot where GLP1s can be an effective adjunct to getting your weight under control. So, if 39 percent of us are obese, but only 2 percent of us are on one of these weight loss drugs, why aren’t the other 37 percent in the game?

One reason is that GLP-1s, like any and all other prescription medicines, are not without their side effects – most of them minor, but in rare instances, significant.

The highest risk comes for persons with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome, which can be stimulated by these drugs. Otherwise, the main side effects are nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, usually when first starting to take the drug.

Another obstacle is the high cost of these drugs, especially for uninsured patients. Retail costs can run as high as $16,000 a year, although discount programs like GoodRx can

drop that annual cost to around $5,000. If you have insurance, you’ll face other obstacles. Some insurance plans cover GLP-1s only for diabetes. Those that do cover the drugs for weight loss usually apply tight restrictions under what conditions they are covered – euphemistically termed “medical necessity” by the health plans. Coverage usually requires prior authorization and submission of medical records to support the diagnosis.

But here’s the real trap with GLP1 receptor agonists: once you start taking them, it’s hard to stop. Because when you stop, if you haven’t made significant lifestyle changes, then you’re apt to regain the weight you lost while on the drug.

In fact, studies show that up to 82 percent of people regain one-fourth or more of the weight they lost within a year of discontinuing their GLP-1.

These drugs work by suppressing your sense of hunger. When you stop taking the drug, hunger pangs return, which leads to increased food intake.

In addition, when you lose a lot of weight rapidly, you also lose muscle mass, which lowers your metabolism and makes it easier to gain weight. This is why it’s so important to exercise, whether off or on a GLP-1.

If you want to come off the drug at some point, work with your doctor to gradually reduce your dose, rather than quitting cold turkey. Maintain a consistent, healthy diet, with increased protein intake to preserve muscle mass and monitor your weight regularly to identify weight gain early.

I want to highlight one more risk, and that is the risk of abusing GLP-1s – one most likely to occur with people with eating disorders, like anorexia nervosa. Just like diet-addicted people have misused other drugs in the past, like diuretics, laxatives and amphetamines, they are bound to misuse GLP-1s. Anecdotal cases have been reported of people abusing the drug by increasing dose or frequency in order to trigger excessively rapid weight loss.

The consequences of abusing these drugs for rapid weight loss can be harmful, even deadly, triggering severe vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration, which can lead to potentially fatal electrolyte imbalances.

It’s important, then, to use these drugs under the close supervision of a physician.

So, what about folks who are morbidly obese, for whom GLP-1s are not sufficient to manage weight? For this population, there is bariatric weight loss surgery. But that’s another story for another column.

~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center.

2026 Woman of the Year Karen TreadwellRaising Hands, Lifting Others

STORY BY SAM VISE

PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS & LIZI ARBOGAST

On a busy Friday morning, Karen Treadwell was exactly where she feels most comfortable: behind a camera, documenting a special moment for her close friend. As the 2026 Lead Forward women’s conference in Alexander City reached its finale on April 24, Treadwell was busy filming what she thought was the crowning moment for her friend, Emily Williams.

But as the presenter continued to describe the impact of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year, tears began to well in Treadwell’s eyes – it became clear

the nominee wasn’t in fact Williams, but rather Treadwell herself.

“I was actually standing up videoing because I thought Emily was about to walk up on stage,” Treadwell said with a laugh. “Then I was like, ‘That description kind of sounds like me.’ They had surprised me; they had been lying to me for so long!”

The surprise was the culmination of a months-long plotting session by her close-knit group of friends, known affectionately as the Fab Five. While Treadwell was busy organizing a party for the supposed winner, her community was busy writing letters to the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, detailing the impact of a woman who has spent decades lifting up everyone around her.

While Treadwell is now a pillar of the local community, her story began in Birmingham. She credits a large part of her life’s trajectory to her time at Canterbury United Methodist Church, where she met her husband, Mark Allen Treadwell.

“His mom always said he would meet his wife at church,” Treadwell said.

The prophecy held true, and in 1995, she moved to her husband’s hometown of Dadeville. In the 30 years since, Treadwell has woven herself into the fabric of the region, balancing a high-level professional career with a persistent schedule of community service.

By day, she serves as the program director for the Wound Care Center at Russell Medical Center. It is a role that requires both clinical precision and deep empathy – traits she carries into her volunteerism.

“I like to be busy,” Treadwell said. “I have a lot of energy. I like to get up, get dressed and be somewhere every day. I work on the weekends too, because I just like being around people.”

Treadwell’s involvement with the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce began nearly 17 years ago, spurred by the encouragement of Jim Peace at Russell Medical. He believed in the importance of managers being visible in the community, leading Treadwell to ring bells for the Salvation Army and deliver Meals on Wheels.

A decade ago, she volunteered to join a brand-new initiative: the Total Resource Campaign.

“It takes leaders throughout the community to come together to develop the campaigns for the chamber,” Treadwell said. “I’ve gotten to know a lot of people, and I’ve

Leading Forward

Previous Pages: The moment Treadwell realized she was the award recipient; Treadwell was chosen for her community impact; Top to Bottom: Treadwell speaking at Lead Forward; With her two daughters, Adeline (left) and Scout.

always said all people can do is say no, but what I try to do is tell them how valuable being a chamber member is.”

Her success in the Total Resource Campaign led to her involvement in Leadership Lake Martin, a program she described as a spiritual turning point. The evening before the program’s annual retreat, Treadwell turned to prayer for inspiration and clarity.

“The night before the retreat, I said, ‘Lord, just use me. Just make this a great experience,’” Treadwell recalled. “I set out a goal to develop a personal relationship with everyone that was going through the program. I did it, and I got to know some wonderful people. And now, I serve on the board.”

If there is a recurring theme in Treadwell’s life, it is the empowerment of other women. Whether it’s her weekend job at Porch & Pine – a female-owned business in Dadeville – or mentoring young professionals, Treadwell operates with a “collaboration over competition” mindset.

“My mission is to support women,” she said. “I want women to feel empowered and confident in what they do. Every time I’m with a woman, I’m always trying to build her up. It’s just my second nature to want women to succeed and be on their team, not adversarial. Having that approach has allowed me to make so many valuable connections and friendships.”

This philosophy is what she hopes to instill in the next generation, including her two daughters. Her oldest, Scout, is currently a dermatology resident at Tulane University in New Orleans, while her younger daughter, Adeline, surprised her mother by flying in from Wyoming for the award ceremony.

“I want women to raise their hand and say ‘yes,’” Treadwell said. “It can be a little scary, or not something you’d normally do, but the blessings you’ll receive – the blessings have just continued to roll in.”

Despite her high energy and multiple jobs, Treadwell finds her balance in the soil. When the professional attire comes off, the gardening clothes go on. Treadwell spends her evenings in her greenhouse or landscaping her yard, usually with her Bernese mountain dog, Millie, by her side.

“When I’m not out and about, I go straight home and put on my gardening clothes, and I’m in the yard,” she said. “I love to landscape and do floral arrangements.”

This love for beauty extends to her home life, where she frequently opens her home to host events and parties.

For someone who prefers to give compliments rather than receive them, being named the 2026 Woman of the Year was a lesson in grace. Her friends presented her with a binder filled with the nomination letters that won her the title – a gesture that moved the “behind-the-scenes” leader to tears.

“I’m just not accustomed to that,” Treadwell said. “I love to give compliments, but it’s hard to receive them sometimes. It’s just nice to hear people say nice things about you.”

As she looks forward to her year as the representative of the area’s professional women, Treadwell’s message remains simple: character and respect are the true measures of success.

“I think it’s important to maintain your character and treat other people with respect,” she said. “I love this community – both sides. I love the Dadeville community and the Alex City community, and I really think we’re one.”

DON'T STOP THE BOOGIE

The Old 280 Boogie celebrates its 25-year anniversary

While the rerouting of a major highway could be seen as a devastating blow for many small town communities, the townsfolk of Waverly not only embraced the change – they still celebrate it today.

The Old 280 Boogie, presented by Standard Deluxe, began 25 years ago as a simple street block party to commemorate the rerouting of U.S. Route 280 around their small town, transforming over time into one of the region’s most beloved annual music and art festivals.

But the roots of the Boogie are as unique as the event itself.

For decades, the route of bustling highway traffic ran through the heart of downtown Waverly, winding through on its narrow, historic 1930s road that was never designed to carry much more than the slow pace of a small town. As traffic grew, it became an unwanted distraction for the town that held a stretch of historic

Dancing in the Streets Facing Page: The Old 280 Boogie is a beloved Waverly tradition; Clockwise from Top Left: Cedric Watson; The first Boogie; Abe Partridge's band took the stage on Saturday; Local vendors and artisans are a staple of the festival.

houses, a local post office, a convenient store and the Standard Deluxe print shop.

So, when plans to reroute the highway emerged in the late 90s, it marked the beginning of a highly anticipated shift for the community. Construction soon followed, laying out the plan for a four-lane bypass to redirect traffic around Waverly instead of through it.

In April 2000, the U.S 280 bypass route was completed, and the downtown streets of Waverly fell silent – but only for a moment. While the hustle and bustle of traffic was missing, it was the people of Waverly who instead stood in the empty streets and cheered for the moment. They had their peaceful town back.

Scott Peek is the owner of Standard Deluxe, a design and silkscreen print shop that opened in Waverly in 1991. He remembers celebrating the moment fondly.

“All of us here in the area were excited, because the traffic never stopped,” Peek said. “There were semitrucks coming through night and day. We saw that the rerouting was coming, and it took several years, but we were all super happy when the highway was completed.”

The following year, Peek and various townspeople organized a small celebration on the one-year

anniversary of the rerouting – one that would eventually grow into Waverly’s flagship event, the Old 280 Boogie.

“One of the buildings I was renting was next to the post office, and we had a little art gallery store there,” Peek said. “In previous years we had been doing live music there, and people in town mentioned we should have a street party at the oneyear anniversary of the highway rerouting. That’s how it all started.”

With just a few barricades in place, the roads leading into downtown were closed off for the first event – a six hour celebration filled with live music, local vendors and food prepared by the churches. Free to the public, the festival relied on donations, volunteers and the support of the townspeople to pull it off.

The overwhelming success of that first gathering inspired Peek and fellow townspeople to bring it back the following year – and the rest is history. As each April rolls around, the Old 280 Boogie continues to draw crowds to Waverly for a weekend of art, music and celebration. What began as a small downtown street party has since grown into a beloved Southern festival held on the artistic grounds of Standard

Deluxe – now supported by sponsors and an event staff in addition to a growing number of community volunteers.

“Over the years it has become a more organized event,” Peek said.

Standard Deluxe has also built long standing relationships with a network of artist managers and booking agents, helping elevate the festival’s entertainment lineup while bringing acclaimed musicians to rural Alabama year after year.

Notable performers have included St. Paul and The Broken Bones, Shovels & Rope and the late Charles Bradley. Peek said St. Paul and The Broken Bones even requested to hold an album release at the Boogie one year.

This year’s 25-year anniversary celebration expanded into a full two-day festival on April 18 and 19, featuring 10 bands including Cedric Burnside, The Heavy Heavy, The Band of Heathens and The Pine Hill Haints – a band that has performed at the Boogie every year, but one, since its inception.

“As Standard Deluxe has grown over the last 35 years, so has its commitment to presenting bands and musicians on our stages,” said Amy Miller, co-producer at Standard Deluxe. “The Old 280 Boogie, presented by Standard Deluxe, is an event that lifts up the historical moment for Waverly, while showcasing the commitment that we have made artistically to

Heart of the Boogie Top: Attendees sprawl out on blankets and lawn chairs; Bottom: Shovels & Rope; Center: Standard Deluxe hosts the annual event and sells commemorative t-shirts.

Music for the Soul Above: The Pine Hill Haints play every year; Sidewalk chalk and bubbles are always a favorite activity among kids.

the community.”

Supported by gold sponsors AuburnOpelika Tourism and Wilton’s Catering, the anniversary event featured involvement from 37 sponsors, children’s teaching artists, 18 artisan and food vendors, including oyster shucking from Prime Steakhouse and a special collaboration between renowned chefs Rob McDaniel and Roscoe Hall in Standard Deluxe’s Feed Shak.

For Peek and Miller, 25 years is only the beginning, as the festival continues to serve as a generational celebration of Waverly’s resilience and community pride.

“We love hearing the stories of generations of families that come to the Boogie,” Miller said. “People tell us that they used to come as kids and are now graduating college, or used to come as teenagers and are now bringing their kids. It’s so exciting to make those connections with the people who return year after year.”

“The Boogie has existed every April for 25 years and has been focused on the love of bringing community and arts together in this small town.”

Yet beyond the music and festival atmosphere, the Boogie’s lasting impact can still be traced back to the same small-town spirit that inspired the event to begin more than two decades ago – a community coming together to celebrate change instead of fearing it.

“The community truly feels ownership and pride in the event,” Miller said. “It preserves a special moment in Waverly’s history – a moment when the community did come together to dance and celebrate in the streets, and to celebrate a rural experience. It might not be so quiet the day we celebrate now, but the Boogie has become a rock for the community.”

OH SNAP! Prom Season

Saturday, March 28 & April 11, 2026

Alexander City, Dadeville & New Site

1. AJ Coker

2. Cody Young and Ansley Price

3. Madison Smith and Ella

4. Marlie Allen and Trae Heath

6. Corde Jefferson and Malyah Woody 7. Katelyn Evers and Aden McDaniel

8. Arieana Johnson and Cale Hanks

9. Gabriella Wright and Carson Spears

10. Jameris Hayes and Kayden Morgan

11. Carlee Ledbetter and Georgia Dennis

THE LAKE REGION

A Fresh Start to Summer Calendar

FEATURED EVENT

Wind Creek debuts inaugural Summer Kickoff Market

As the spring breeze begins to carry the warmth of summer, Wind Creek State Park is inviting the community to participate in a new summer tradition. On Saturday, May 30, the park will host its first-ever Camping and Summer Kickoff Market, a vibrant gathering designed to celebrate the great outdoors and local talent.

The festivities begin on Friday, May 29, with a karaoke session from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. for overnight guests. On Saturday morning, the focus shifts to the market, which is expected to host between 20 to 30 vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to baked goods and locally designed T-shirts.

Splash into Summer

Wind Creek State Park will host a camping market on May 30 to kick off the summer season.

Beyond the shopping, the park is hosting a Corn Hole tournament at 3 p.m. on Saturday to end the day. Teams of two can sign up at the marina or campground office to compete for backyard glory.

Ultimately, the event is about more than just a market; it’s an invitation to experience all the park has to offer.

“We’re hoping to bring everybody in for a fun, familyfriendly time,” said Erin Dunn, facility operator at Wind Creek. “We hope people come and camp with us and more people come into the park to enjoy nature. If they come to the market, hopefully they’ll stick around, go swimming or go on a hike.”

Entry is $5 per car, which covers access to both the market and the park’s day-use areas for the entire afternoon. The park plans to make this event an annual staple of the local summer calendar. For more details or to register as a vendor, contact the park at 256-329-0845 or visit the park’s Facebook page.

May 15

Martin’s at Lake Martin Centennial Birthday Celebration

Raise a glass to 100 years of Lake Martin at Martin’s at Lake Martin. This centennial birthday bash will feature country music royalty Hank IV, a “big ol’ birthday cake” and plenty of giveaways. Grab tickets for $15 at the door or in advance at martinsatlakemartin.com.

May 15

Urban Hollow

Join the Dadeville Performing Arts Center as it welcomes Urban Hollow – a musical trio that blends bluegrass, folk, country and rock into a sound that’s all their own. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. Admission is by donation. Contact office@dadevilleperformingartscenter. com for more details.

May 16

On the Water Showcase

Get an exclusive look at the future of boating right on the water at River North Marina. Held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., this showcase is the perfect opportunity to test-drive the newest 2026 fleet while taking advantage of massive summer savings on lake apparel and gear. Beyond the boats, guests can grab lunch from Chick-fil-A and meet with experts from Save a Dock and Lift E-Foil. For more details, visit russelllands.com/events.

May 16

Pup-Along Hike

Bring your furry friend and enjoy the great outdoors at Wind Creek State Park. Starting at noon, attendees will embark on a scenic loop around the Campfire Trail. All dogs must be leashed, and owners are encouraged to bring water and treats for their fourlegged friends. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors. For more details, contact the park at 256-329-0845.

May 16

Art in the Park

Celebrate creativity at Patriot Park in Dadeville, hosted by the Everything’s Art Guild. This community event showcases local artists and makers with a variety of handmade artwork on display and for purchase. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., stroll through the park, meet talented creatives and

LAKE REGION EVENTS

enjoy a relaxed day supporting the arts in the heart of Dadeville. Contact everythingsartguild14@gmail.com for more details.

May 19

Mugs and Muffins

Hand-Building

Class

Join the One Oak Pottery team back at The Grand Bakery in Dadeville for a Mugs and Muffins Hand-Building Class. Guests can enjoy a hands-on experience creating their own unique hand-built mug while enjoying delicious fresh baked goods from the bakery. Class begins at 10 a.m. and is $50 per person. Register at oneoakpottery.com.

May

22 & 23

RXR Fest

Start Memorial Day weekend with a double header of free live music at Russell Crossroads. RXR Fest returns Friday and Saturday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Pack your lawn chairs, grab the family and settle in for two nights of great tunes and holiday fun. Visit russelllands.com/events for more details.

May 23 & 24

Art on the Lake

Kick off summer with a masterpiece at Art on the Lake. This Memorial Day weekend tradition brings together the Southeast’s most talented creators on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. From hand-thrown pottery to fine woodworking, there is plenty of inspiration to be found. Contact Sydnee Hamilton at 256-212-1431 or shamilton@russelllands.com for more information.

May 24

Shake the Lake

Cap off your holiday weekend at Martin’s at Lake Martin from 5 p.m. to midnight. This family-friendly bash features live sets from The Burn Downs and Blackberry Breeze, plus food trucks, caricature art and children’s games. Adults can enjoy signature cocktails and a bourbon tasting by Clyde May’s Whiskey. Tickets are $15 (children 12 and under are free), with proceeds benefiting American Legion Post 143 and Service Dogs Alabama. Visit martinsatlakemartin.com to purchase tickets.

May 25

Wreath Laying Ceremony

Join the Dadeville community to remember and honor those who have served. This Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony provides a meaningful opportunity for residents to gather in reflection. Held at Patriot Park at 10 a.m., the ceremony will feature a formal wreath presentation and a moment of silence to pay tribute to the nation’s fallen heroes.

May 29 & 30

Lake Martin Rodeo

Giddy up for the 6th annual Lake Martin Rodeo at the Tallapoosa County AgriBusiness Center in Jackson’s Gap. It’s more than just bull riding – gates open at 5 p.m. each night for live music and local vendors before the main event kicks off at 7 p.m. Presale tickets are available at Tractor Supply in Alexander City for $10 until sold out. Tickets at the gate will be $15. Children 10 and under get in free.

May 30 Kids Clay Day

Little artists are invited to get creative with clay and make adorable handmade animal creations in this hands-on class at One Oak Pottery in Dadeville. Participants will return at a later date to glaze and finish their masterpiece. Class begins at 10 a.m. and is $40 per child. To register, visit oneoakpottery.com.

June 4

NinaJo Concert

Join the Dadeville Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m. for an evening featuring the acoustic pop/rock stylings of NinaJo. Her versatile sound and engaging performance make for a perfect family-friendly outing. Visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com for more details.

June 6

Black Jacket Symphony at The AMP

Experience the glory of the ‘80s under the stars as the Black Jacket Symphony performs Bon Jovi’s “Slippery When Wet” live at The AMP on Lake Martin. Show starts at 7 p.m. Reserved seating will be provided a chair. General admission seating is first come, first served, and guests will need to bring

LAKE REGION EVENTS

a soft-sided, bag-style chair (no hard chairs). This is a Black Jacket Symphony Production, so no coolers or pets please. Visit russelllands.com/events for more details or to purchase tickets.

June 5-12

Alexander City Sun Festival

Celebrate summer at the 14th annual Sun Festival. This eight-day festival features a wide variety of events and activities for all ages, along with special offers from local restaurants and merchants. For updates and details, visit alexcitychamber.com or follow Sun Festival Alexander City on Facebook.

June 9-12

Youth Sailing Camp

Set sail this summer with the Dixie Sailing Club’s Youth Sailing Camps, held June 9-12 from 9 a.m. Tuesday to 3 p.m. Friday at 767 New Hope Church Road in Alexander City. Open to ages 7 to 17, each session combines recreational sailing with hands-on instruction in boating, seamanship, water safety, navigation and STEM-focused marine science. The cost is $125 per session, per child, with sibling discounts available. For details, visit dixiesailingclub.com, find the club on Facebook or contact Jim Simons at dscypmail@gmail.com or 334-546-0224.

June 13 & 27

Eco Tours on Lake Martin

Explore the hidden corners of the lake with Wind Creek State Park naturalist Dylan Ogle. This pontoon boat excursion is designed for nature lovers who want to see Lake Martin through a different lens. Get up close with native species like great blue herons and bald eagles while hearing fascinating stories about the region’s unique ecosystem and historical roots. Tours begin at noon and are $25 per person. Visit alapark.com/parks/windcreek-state-park/park-events to reserve a spot.

June 14 & 28

Evening Stroll at Wind Creek State Park

Join Wind Creek State Park naturalist Dylan Ogle for an evening stroll down the Speckled Snake Trail. Guests will embark from the trailhead by the boat launch parking lot at 5 p.m. for a 4-mile hike across hilly terrain.

Ogle recommends bringing snacks, bug spray and a flashlight. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors. Contact dylan.ogle@dcnr.alabama.gov for more information.

June

16

Dadeville Summer BBQ

Celebrate 100 years of Lake Martin with a summer birthday bash at the Tallapoosa County Agribusiness Center from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Hosted by the Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce, this event features a delicious barbecue spread, birthday cake and live entertainment by the Naked Water Band. Tickets are $20; children 5 and under get in free. Visit dadevillechamber.com, find the chamber on Facebook or call 256-8254019 for more details or to purchase tickets.

June 23-26

Youth Sailing Camp

Set sail this summer with the Dixie Sailing Club’s Youth Sailing Camps, held June 23-26 from 9 a.m. Tuesday to 3 p.m. Friday at 767 New Hope Church Road in Alexander City. Open to ages 7 to 17, each session combines recreational sailing with hands-on instruction in boating, seamanship, water safety, navigation and STEMfocused marine science. The cost is $125 per session, per child, with sibling discounts available. For details, visit dixiesailingclub.com, find the club on Facebook or contact Jim Simons at dscypmail@gmail.com or 334-546-0224.

Season-long Events

Music in the Air at Zazu’s Verandah

Enjoy free live music every Thursday evening at Zazu’s Verandah, located on the Dadeville Square. The series runs through July 30, with performances from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m., and guests ages 21 and older are welcome. Tips for musicians are appreciated. Charcuterie snack trays, serving two, are available for pre-order for $16. Charcuterie snack trays must be ordered by 10 a.m. each Thursday by calling 256-307-2188. For more information, visit zazusverandah.com.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Tours

Come see Naturalist Marianne and her lively nature presentations at the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature. Visit russelllands.com/ events for the scheduled subject topics, dates and times.

Saturday Stroll

Join the community for a stroll on the first Saturday of each month during the summer in downtown Eclectic. Begins at 8 a.m. Meet at the Eclectic Public Library. Follow the Downtown Eclectic Network Facebook page for updates.

Friday On The Green

Every Friday night all summer long (with the exception of RXR Fest, Fourth of July, Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival and Labor Day weekends), Russell Lands hosts free music and lawn games on the Town Green from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, coolers, kids and the pup on a leash to start your weekend at the lake with family and friends. For the full line up, visit russelllands.com/events.

Alexander City Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday from May 23 through July 25 between 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., Broad Street comes alive with local farmers and artisans offering everything from garden-fresh produce to unique handmade crafts. It is the perfect place to snag the best picks of the season, support local makers and enjoy a friendly morning in the heart of downtown Alexander City.

Acoustic Jam Session

Acoustic musicians of all skill levels are invited to gather on the second Saturday of each month to share music in a fun and welcoming environment. The acoustic jam session is free, and the public is invited to attend, listen or join in. The event takes place at 128 N. Broadnax Street in Dadeville. For more information, contact office@ dadevilleperformingartcenter.com.

Explore

Lake Martin

Kowaliga Marina

256-397-1210

The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

River North Marina 256-397-1500

Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700

Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793

SpringHouse 256-215-7080

Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

Acapulco Mexican Gril 334-283-2725

Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567

Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

Kowaliga Whole Health 334-857-1816

Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847

Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717

Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820

Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-307-1499

LakeScape 334-857-2443

Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

Dixie Sailing Club

Lakeshore Pharmacy 256-825-0063

Singleton Marine 256-269-0088

Momentum Marine 256-825-9286

Martin's @ Lake Martin 256-307-1338

DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE!

Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy.

ALEXANDER CITY:

Abernathy Farm Supply

Alex City Airport

Alex City Marine

Alex City Public Library

Alex City Nutrition

BeYOUtiful Salon

Benjamin Lake Club

Big B Barbeque

Bone & Joint Specialists

Carib Kitchen

Carlisle's

Carlos Mexican Grill

Catherine's Market

Central State Bank

Chamber of Commerce

Cherokee Quickstop

Citgo - HWY 22

City Hall

Cloud Nine

Court House Annex

Dark Insurance

Days Inn

Docks Unlimited

Dr. Mackey

Dr. Sublett

Emporium Wine

Exxon - HWY 280

Fanny’s

George W. Hardy- Dentist

Grace's Flowers

Hampton Inn

Heritage South Credit Union

Hillabee Towers

Hometown Pharmacy

Jackson Drugs

Jake's

Jes & Gray Living

Jim Bob's

JR's Sports Bar & Grill

Karen Channel - State Farm Agent

Koon's Korner

Lake Martin Pizza Co.

Lake Martin Nutrition

Larry's General Store

Longleaf Antiques

Main Street Urgent Care

Marathon - CHEROKEE RD

Mark King's Furniture

Medicine Express

Moore Wealth Management

North Lake Condo

Pri Care

Quality Inn

Regions Bank

ReMax

Renfroe’s

Ridge Marina

River Bank & Trust

River Bend Store

River North Marina

Ron Carroll-State Farm Insurance Agent

Russel Do It Center

Russel Marine Boating & Outdoors

Russell Home Decor

Russell Medical Center

Russell Lands Real Estate Sales

Center

Satterfield

Senior Nutrition Center

Shay Aesthetics

Sho’Nuff BBQ

Smith Marina

SpringHouse

Sun’s Diner

Sunrise Docks

Super 8

Tallapoosa Publishers

Temple Medical

The Body Shop

The Ridge Club

The Square

Sure Shot Outdoors

Tippy Canoe

Truist Bank

Valley Bank

Walgreen's

Warren Appliance

Willow Point Golf & Country Club

Willow Point Office

Wind Creek State Park Gate

Wind Creek State Park Store

DADEVILLE:

Alabama Power

Amazin' Grazin'

Backyard Dreams

Boondocks at Bay Pine

Blue Creek Marina

Chuck's Marina

City Hall

Courthouse

Creekside Lodge

Dadeville Public Library

Dadeville Wellness Center

Deep Water Docks

Ellaby Boutique

Farmer's Merchant Bank

Floyd's Feed and Seed

Flutterflies

Harbor Pointe Marina

Holiday Shores Grocery

Ivy Creek Urgent Care

Jim's Pharmacy

Lakay's

Lake Martin Community Hospital

Lake Martin Dadeville Area

Chamber

Lake Martin Pizza Co.

Lakeshore Pharmacy

Lake Martin Realty

Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe

Martin’s at Lake Martin

McKelvey

Miller's on Broadnax

Millstone Japanese Maple Nursery

Momentum Marina

Niffer's Place

Oskar's

Payne's Furniture

Phoenix Nails

PNC Bank

Poplar Dawgs

Porch and Pine

Renfroe's Market

Route 49

Russell Building Supply

Shell

Siggers

Stillwaters Country Club

Stillwaters Residential Office

Store 34

The Backyard

The Cart Source

The Grand Bakery

Three Sixty Lake Martin, LLC

Two Ghosts Coffee

Valley Bank

Wisp and Well

TALLASSEE:

1220 Cafe

Chamber of Commerce

Community Hospital

Eagle (Gilmer Ave)

First Community Bank

Guardian Credit Union

Louie's Chicken Fingers

MaePop's Barbecue

Marathon (Kent Rd)

Red Hill Gallery

WETUMPKA:

First Community Bank

The Wetumpka Herald Office

EQUALITY:

Equality Food Mart

Parker Creek Marina

Real Island Marina

Southern Star

The Landing at Parker Creek

ECLECTIC:

Anchor Bay Marina, Inc.

Children's Harbor Thrift Store

Cotton's BBQ

Eclectic Public Library

First Community Bank

Johnson Furniture Company

Kowaliga General Store

Kowaliga Marina

Kowaliga Restaurant

LakeScape

Lake Martin Dock Company

Lake Martin Machine Gun

Lake Martin Mini Mall

Lake Martin Reflections Spa

Nails

Offshore Marina

The Social at Lake Martin

Russell Do It Center

Get Lake Martin Living delivered to your mailbox for just $75 per year. To start your subscription, call Baily Terry at 256-234-4281. Where

People claim kitchens sell houses. As a realtor, I do not disagree. As I sit here looking at my kitchen, I have to laugh because I’m not sure what some folks would think of it! My kitchen is very retro. We still have the original 1960s America’s Best oven that is white metal and, no surprise, it still works. It fits in with the original metal sink and cabinets. Over the years, it grew on John and me, and we even found a matching sink set on Facebook Marketplace for the guest quarters. At this point, it would be weird if anything was “too” new at the cabin. No matter how new or old, big or small, the kitchen is home base at any lake house. It has been interesting to follow kitchen trends over the last 10 years. What was current in 2016 is now showing its age compared to the streamlined new kitchens of brandnew construction. Time does a number on everything.

wrong with a classic white kitchen paired with warm wood accents. If you’re looking to introduce a bit more personality, soft green blues are having a moment and work beautifully at the lake. I also love seeing pops of color through appliance choices.

Culture Shock

As for styling, countertops are best kept clean and uncluttered. Butler’s pantries are becoming increasingly popular, giving you a place to tuck away extra appliances and gadgets while keeping the main kitchen polished and guest-ready.

One fun way to elevate your scene is through colored barware, like Estelle. It’s playful and can be a departure from a more traditional style. Coupe glasses seem to be trending, and they are often used for espresso martinis and champagne. A fun ice bucket, carafe or big bowl of citrus will spice up your bar cart. Also, I love a monogrammed moment – think linen napkins or glassware. I have so much monogrammed serving ware from when I got married, and I still love it.

1

ICE MAKER

There is no such thing as too much ice at the lake. I have an industrial one close to the dock as well as a tabletop nugget ice maker. Obviously, that makes a cocktail or Diet Coke special.

2

ASECONDREFRIGERATOR

I think you could have 10 fridges and fill them up at the lake. Personally, I have two –plus a small beverage fridge. It’s rare to go into a lake house and not find the last fridge living in the garage. This may just be an Alabama thing.

I could keep going beyond the top five now that I’m looking around my house. Plenty of YETI cups and koozies go without saying. One definitely needs multiple wine openers. A nice one for dinner parties and then cheap ones for the boat – not unlike sunglasses. One trend I’m seeing in new construction that can easily translate to an older home is the return of panel-ready appliances – they’re back, and I think it looks really sleek. Gas ranges are still the most popular choice, while drawer dishwashers and outdoor kitchens continue to gain traction for their ease and functionality.

When it comes to color, you can never go

Here’s the truth – you don’t want to have anything “too nice” in the kitchen or have anything you would really miss. Cups walk off, and you walk in with new ones you lifted from neighbors. The koozie drawers reveal who was at the party. The freezer should be stocked with frozen pizza for late night, Conecuh sausage for a last-minute appetizer, Wickles Pickles to go with everything, 10 bottles of barbecue sauce on-hand and Tostitos and bean dip – it’s the least fattening option for a snack. Your kitchen at the lake will be one full of late-night laughs, love, good food and good company. If my kitchen could talk, we would all be in trouble!

~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and loves good wine. Follow her on Instagram @LaceyHowell.

3

CUTTING BOARDS

One can’t have too many cutting boards: big, small, wooden or plastic. These are useful for slicing limes and slinging charcuterie to guests.

4

SERVING WARE

I would categorize serving ware into inside and outside use. You need a lot of nonbreakable things at the lake and plenty of Tupperware.

5

ATMOSPHERELIGHTING

You want the kitchen and bar areas to glow, nothing too stark or glaring. The same goes for outdoor lights.

Women spend their lives caring for others. It’s time to care for yourself. Between work, family, and daily responsibilities, many women put their own health on hold. But preventive care including routine checkups and recommended screenings is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your future health.

At Russell Medical, our physicians and care teams are dedicated to supporting women with compassionate, personalized care and advanced medical services all close to home. This Women’s Health Month, take the time to prioritize the one thing that matters most: your health.

Because when women stay healthy, families and communities thrive. Schedule your visit today

russellcares.com