Lake Martin Living September 2026

REMEMBERING 9/11

Alex City Band of Brothers

Goldminers & Moonshiners Elks Lodge Goes Quacking For A Cause

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From the Editor’s Desk

“W

here were you on September 11?” For anyone old enough to remember, it’s a question we have all reflected on, asked or answered at some point over the past 25 years. We remember where we were. We remember who we were with. We remember watching the images unfold on television and trying to comprehend what was happening. It was a devastating day in American history, but I also remember what came afterward. In the days and weeks that followed, the country seemed more united than I can remember at any other point in my lifetime. Flags appeared everywhere, and patriotic songs filled the radio. Strangers were a little kinder to each other, and for a while, we put our differences aside and banded together. As the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks approached this year, it felt especially important to make sure those memories – and the stories of the people who lived them – are never forgotten. For Alexander City resident Jose Garcia, that fateful day changed the course of his life forever. Garcia was in New Jersey when the planes struck the World Trade Center, close enough to witness it with his own eyes. In the aftermath, he made the decision to serve his country, a choice that would eventually take him to Baghdad and into the heart of a war half a world away. Yet out of that experience came something that would last long after he returned home. His service connected him with a group of soldiers from Alexander City who became far more than fellow servicemen – they became lifelong friends. Read more on page 28. History also takes us much farther back in this month’s issue – all the way to Alabama’s very own gold rush. I had often heard stories about gold being discovered in Alabama, but it wasn’t until recently that I found out so much of the frenzy took place in our own backyard. Tucked among the rolling hills of northern Tallapoosa County are remnants of hundreds of old mines and the little town of Goldville, which was once home to thousands of people hoping to strike it rich. But gold mining is only part of Goldville’s interesting past. When the mines began to close, some locals turned to a much riskier venture – moonshining. Growing up in Goldville, 80-year-old Coy Powell has plenty of tales about both. We “dig” into the town’s history on page 18. We hope you enjoy the stories in these pages, never forgetting that some are truly worth their weight in gold.

Editor-in-Chief

4 LAKE MARTIN Living

LAKE MARTIN Living Chairman Kenneth Boone General Manager Tippy Hunter Editor-in-Chief Shaylee Beck Moore Creative Services Audra Spears Contributors Kenneth Boone Audra Spears Lacey Howell Shane Harris George Miranda Gina Abernathy Lori Harrell Lizi Arbogast Cliff Williams Samuel Higgs Gwen Bishop Sarah Chase Jose Garcia Operations Manager Baily Terry Marketing/Advertising Renee Trice Erin Vickers Olivia Thigpen Dakota DuClau Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 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. 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.

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ON THE COVER

Former National Guard soldier Jose Garcia reflects on his service following September 11 and the Alexander City soldiers who fought beside him. Photo by Audra Spears

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TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES 18. Goldminers & Moonshiners Once a bustling gold rush town, discover the rich history behind Goldville. 28. Brothers Beyond the Battlefield After witnessing the September 11 attacks, one soldier’s path led him to war and an unexpected brotherhood in Alexander City. 32. Quacking for a Cause The Alexander City Elks Lodge makes a splash for local causes with its annual rubber duck race.

IN EVERY ISSUE 09. AROUND THE AREA 10. GO LOCAL 14. GOOD EATS 22. GARDEN TALK 34. MEDICAL NEWS 36. MONEY MATTERS 38. OH SNAP! 44. LAKE REGION EVENTS 54. CULTURE SHOCK

10

Handcrafted décor, unique antiques and a passion for mahjong makes K&S KreationS anything but an ordinary store. Photo by Shaylee Beck Moore.

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AROUND THE AREA

Rotary Club Expands Dolly Parton's Reading Mission

Remembering 9/11 Twenty-Five Years Later

The Alexander City Rotary Club has been helping carry forward Dolly Parton’s vision of putting books into the hands of young children through its sponsorship of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Through the program, children receive a free, ageappropriate book every month from birth until they reach age 5. The books are mailed directly to the child, helping families build home libraries while encouraging children to develop a lifelong love of reading. The program is available to children regardless of their family’s income. ~ TPI Staff

On September 11, 2001, a total of 2,977 people lost their lives in the attacks in New York City, at the Pentagon and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Twenty-five years later, the lives lost and the courage shown that day continue to be remembered.

World Trade Center | New York City

A total of 2,753 people died at the World Trade Center, including 343 firefighters, 23 New York City police officers and 37 Port Authority police officers.

The Pentagon | Arlington, Virginia

There were 184 people who died when American Airlines Flight 77 struck the Pentagon, including 125 people inside the building and 59 passengers and crew members aboard the plane.

Flight 93 | Shanksville, Pennsylvania

Forty passengers and crew members died aboard United Airlines Flight 93. After learning of the attacks in New York and at the Pentagon, passengers and crew fought back against the hijackers. The plane crashed in a field near Shanksville before reaching its intended target in Washington, D.C.

Honoring the Fallen Today

With elevators damaged or inaccessible, many first responders climbed the towers on foot while carrying heavy equipment weighing 40 to 60 pounds. Today, 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs held across the country honor the fallen by challenging participants to climb the equivalent of the World Trade Center’s 110 stories – approximately 2,200 steps.

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Dock and Donate Gives Back to Growing Families Food, drinks and live music are a great way to kick off a Sunday afternoon, but Sweet Home Alababy held its Dock and Donate fundraiser for a much larger reason. Sweet Home Alababy, in partnership with Lake Community Church, hosted its Dock and Donate fundraiser in Dadeville August 23, with Trey Foshee providing live music as attendees arrived by boat and car for an afternoon of fun and floating in the lake. All proceeds went toward supplies for the organization’s annual community baby shower. The money raised will purchase diapers, wipes, car seats, cribs and other materials needed to care for a new baby.

Stay connected: @lakemartinlivingmagazine @lake_martin_living_magazine

~ Sarah Chase

Scan the QR code to visit our website. LAKE MARTIN Living 9

GO LOCAL

Creating More F

Than Décor STORY & PHOTOS BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE

or Steve and Kirsten Knutson, creative inspiration can come from just about anywhere – an unusual find at an antique store, a set of vintage water skis or simply a spontaneous idea Kirsten believes her husband can bring to life. Together, the couple has a knack for seeing the possibilities in everyday objects and transforming them into one-of-akind pieces of home décor. “Kirsten is very creative and artistic,” Steve said. “She will see something and say, ‘Hey, honey, do you think you can make this?’ And I’ll say, ‘Let’s give it a whirl.’” That partnership has become the foundation of K&S KreationS, the couple’s Dadeville home décor and gift store, where shoppers can find an eclectic mix of handcrafted pieces, unique accessories and the area’s most extensive selection of mahjong merchandise. In many ways, the store reflects the Knutsons’ vibrant personalities and favorite hobbies. In late 2024, K&S KreationS opened its doors, turning what began as a workshop for Steve into a growing local business shaped by the couple’s interests. One of those is picking, and the couple rarely passes up an opportunity to explore thrift and antique stores while 10 LAKE MARTIN Living

traveling. But rather than simply reselling what they find, they look for items that can be reimagined into something entirely new – a water fountain, tabletops, furniture or other unique creations that come to mind. “Whenever we go on vacation, we always carry an extra suitcase or duffel bag for our finds,” Steve said. “We don’t know what we’re going to pick, but a lot of it we repurpose.” Steve himself builds other pieces, including Adirondack chairs handcrafted from vintage wooden water skis and displays crafted from driftwood pulled from the lake. For him, woodworking is a skill that carries a deep family connection. Originally from Minnesota, Steve developed an interest in building through industrial arts classes and his grandfather. “My grandfather worked on the railroad. When he retired, he became a carpenter,” Steve said. “When I was 16, I spent a summer with him. He taught me woodworking. I was hooked.” While Kirsten’s imagination and Steve’s woodworking have helped shape one side of K&S KreationS, another of the couple’s favorite hobbies has grown into a significant part of their business – mahjong.

Treasures and Tiles Customers travel from major Clockwise from Top cities to shop the store’s extensive Left: The welcoming selection of elevated mahjong showroom; The Taj tiles, accessories and gifts. Mahj Hall; Handcrafted “All of our customers tell us mahjong tiles; Water that there’s not another store in ski Adirondack chairs; Alabama that carries the variety Unique finds throughout and the amount of mahjong the store; Owners Kirsten supplies that we do,” Steve said. and Steve Knutson. The couple also continues to expand its inventory by listening to shoppers and asking what brands, styles and products they want to see. Steve said another advantage of shopping in person is having the opportunity to see colors, feel the tiles and compare options rather than ordering online without knowing exactly what will arrive. K&S KreationS takes the mahjong experience a step further by offering a space designed specifically for mixing and matching pieces to create a customized table setup. Nicknamed the “Taj Mahj Hall,” the colorful space allows customers to experiment with tablescaping to create a distinctive look for mahjong games. “It is a game that has beauty to it,” Steve said. “People know they’re going to be entertaining other folks, and they want their table and accessories to look a certain way. So, we tell people to come on in and use the Taj Mahj Hall room to lay out their tiles and mats.” Mahjong has also given the store another way to bring LAKE MARTIN Living 11

customers together. About once a month, K&S KreationS hosts events for up to 24 players of different skill levels to play and socialize. Kirsten has also begun offering lessons to small groups and manages the Facebook page Mahjong Dadeville to keep players informed of events and other activities going on in the area. The Knutsons say they feel blessed by the support they have received and are always looking for ways to give back to the community, regularly donating their creations to benefit local fundraisers and organizations such as Loaves & Fishes, the Tallapoosa County Girls Ranch and Ferst Readers. For the couple, building relationships throughout the community is vital. They have seen firsthand how local businesses and organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce can work together to support small businesses and strengthen the community. That sense of connection, they said, is part of what makes owning – and shopping at – a small local business unique. “The small towns in our area are welcoming communities with great leaders,” Steve said. “It’s a very friendly, personal experience shopping locally. You go into a store or eatery, you see new things, and you meet new people. To me, that connection is so critical.” For the Knutsons, that personal connection has become just as much a part of the K&S KreationS All About Mahjong experience as the unique gifts found Top: The store is known on its shelves. for its extensive mahjong Visit K&S KreationS at 2668 collection; Below: A East South Street in Dadeville or dedicated space offers kandskreations.net. room for mahjong play and practice.

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SCHOOL CAFETERIA PIZZA GOOD EATS

T

here’s something about the start of a new school year that brings back memories of school lunches, packed lunchboxes and pizza day in the cafeteria. This easy school cafeteria pizza brings back those memories of standing in the lunch line, carrying that lunch tray to the table and knowing I was about to enjoy my favorite school meal. For me, though, this recipe is about more than an easy homemade pizza. It’s about the memories that come with it. Years later, when I became a teacher, I got to see that same excitement from a different perspective. The students were just as excited about pizza day as I had been. I can still remember how some students who normally brought their lunch from home would leave their lunchboxes behind on pizza day because they weren’t about to miss out. It wasn’t just another lunch – it was pizza! It’s funny how something as simple as a school lunch can become a memory that stays with you for years. This dough recipe is easy to adapt to whatever you’re making. The dough comes together without a lot of fuss, and once it’s ready, you have plenty of options for how you want to make your pizza. Roll the dough into a rectangle, add your toppings and bake it on a sheet pan for classic school cafeteria pizza, or divide the dough into smaller portions for individual or mini pizzas, which are perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks or an easy family dinner. As a new school year begins, I hope this recipe brings back a few good memories for you, too. Whether you make a big rectangular pizza reminiscent of the lunchroom version or prepare mini pizzas for the lunchbox, it’s a simple homemade recipe that makes pizza day something you can enjoy at home. ~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm. 14 LAKE MARTIN Living

MEAL PREP IDEA You can make a batch of mini pizzas ahead of time and freeze them for an easy meal whenever the craving hits. Cut the dough into smaller portions and roll each portion out into a mini pizza. Place the dough on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, then add the sauce, cheese and your favorite toppings. Flash-freeze the pizzas until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready for pizza, simply bake the mini pizzas straight from frozen for a quick and easy homemade meal.

Check out the full receipe on page 16

PIZZA TOPPING IDEAS ✏ Cooked ground beef or sausage ✏ Pepperoni ✏ Diced ham ✏ Mozzarella cheese ✏ Black olives ✏ Mushrooms ✏ Pineapple ✏ Pasta or pizza sauce

RECIPE NOTES ✏ When mixing, if the dough is very sticky and not pulling away from the sides of the bowl, add a little more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, until it starts to pull away. This usually takes 2 to 3 tablespoons. The dough will be sticky. ✏ When shaping the dough, add a little flour to the work surface so the dough doesn’t stick to the surface or your fingers as it is rolled out. Rub hands with flour and sprinkle more flour over the top and work surface as needed. Trust the process. LAKE MARTIN Living 15

SCHOOL CAFETERIA PIZZA RECIPE ✏ Knead the dough

Attach the dough hook and mix until the dough comes together and begins pulling away from the sides of the bowl. At this point, I usually start adding the extra flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until all the flour is incorporated. Continue mixing for about 5 minutes. The dough will be sticky. See recipe notes.

✏ Let the dough rest

Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Sprinkle more flour over the top, then cover lightly with plastic wrap and let it rest for 10 minutes. Flour your hands well, then shape the dough into a ball.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup warm water, about 110 degrees 1 packet rapid-rise yeast 1 tablespoon sugar or honey 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus 3 tablespoons and more for shaping 2 teaspoons salt 2 tablespoons oil 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon garlic powder Favorite pizza toppings

DIRECTIONS

✏ Activate the yeast

Add the yeast and sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer. Pour in the warm water and gently stir. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.

✏ Make the dough

Add the 2 1/2 cups of flour, salt, oil and seasonings to the yeast mixture.

✏ Shape the pizza

Place the dough on a parchment paperlined pan and roll or use your hands to shape the dough into a rectangle for one large pizza or divide it into smaller portions and roll each portion into a mini pizza. Don’t be afraid to use more flour to make your dough workable and less sticky. See recipe notes.

✏ Add the toppings

Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce or pizza sauce over the dough. Top with cheese and your favorite toppings, then drizzle lightly with oil.

✏ Freeze or bake

To freeze the mini pizzas, flash-freeze them until firm, then transfer them to a freezersafe bag or container. To bake, place the pizza in a 400-degree oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the crust is cooked through and the cheese is melted to your liking.

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THE HIDDEN HISTORY OF GOLDVILLE

GOLDMINERS & MOONSHINERS STORY BY SHAYLE BECK MOORE PHOTOS BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE & TPI ARCHIVES

D

riving down the back roads of northern Tallapoosa County, it would be easy to pass by the rolling hills and handful of chicken farms without realizing the intriguing history tucked among them. With only a few dozen residents and sprawling acres of woods, it’s hard to imagine the frenzy that once made the little town of Goldville one of Alabama’s earliest boomtowns – but nearly two centuries ago, thousands arrived in this quiet corner of the state with hopes of striking it rich. That’s because long before prospectors rushed west to California, Alabama’s red dirt was painted in gold. In the early 1830s, gold was discovered in east-central Alabama, setting off a wave of prospecting and mining that stretched throughout several counties, including Tallapoosa. As word spread, miners and fortune seekers from surrounding states poured into communities near promising deposits, with Goldville becoming one of the centers of that activity. By the early 1840s, the rush had transformed the rural area into a bustling mining community. Goldville was incorporated January 25,1843, near the height of Alabama’s gold-mining era. Historical accounts estimate that at least 3,000 people lived there during the boom, while local accounts have placed the population closer to 5,000. For a community that has a population of around 50 people today, Goldville of the 1840s would be almost unrecognizable. By 1845, the mining town was said to include about a dozen stores, three barrooms, a hotel, a mining supply house, churches, a school and even a racetrack. Homes and two large tent villages were also built for the miners and their families. Mining itself also became increasingly sophisticated. After much of the easily accessible gold in streams and surface deposits had been worked, miners began extracting ore from the surrounding hills. The Goldville district became the site of early mechanical ore processing, using water power and stamp mills to crush rock before separating the gold. But the rush didn’t last long. By 1849, gold flakes had grown increasingly difficult

18 LAKE MARTIN Living

THE HIDDEN HISTORY OF GOLDVILLE

There's Gold in Those Hills

Left: The Goldville Hotel circa 1840s; Below: Coy Powell, former mayor of Goldville; Facing Page Top: An 1892 map illustrates the gold region of east-central Alabama; Bottom: During the early 1840s panners would work the surrounding streams for gold.

to extract as surface deposits dried up. Then, with the discovery of gold in California, people began leaving the town as quickly as they came. Once one of the largest towns in Alabama, Goldville became a dormant municipality for generations before being reincorporated on July 9, 1973. Though the mines may have fallen silent, the stories of Goldville’s fascinating frenzy remained, passed down through generations of families who continued to call the small town home. For Coy Powell, those stories from his ancestors were a distinct part of growing up in Goldville. The 80-year-old Army veteran and former mayor of Goldville grew up in the small town, just a mile down the street from his current residence. “I’ve lived here since 1966,” Powell said. “Everything was already shut down following the Depression, but the mines were still here. I had walked by them many, many times and never realized they were there until my dad pointed them out to me one day.” His father told Powell stories about how the gold was extracted, piquing his interest as a young boy and launching a lifelong fascination with the town’s history. Between history lessons from his father and exploring the woods surrounding his home, Powell began to learn how early prospectors pulled precious metal from Alabama soil. In the earliest days of the rush, mining was relatively simple. Prospectors worked along creek beds, using pans

and wooden sluice boxes to wash away gravel and sediment and capture the heavier flakes of gold left behind. But as the easiest gold became harder to find, miners followed it underground, digging pits, tunnels and shafts into the surrounding hills. According to Powell, a total of 262 mines were eventually dug throughout the Goldville area. Rock pulled from the mines was hauled to stamp mills, where heavy iron stamps pounded it into smaller particles so the gold could be separated. The process grew more sophisticated – and more dangerous – over time. Mercury was used in a process known as amalgamation to capture finer particles of gold, but despite the increasingly elaborate methods, finding gold was never easy. “My daddy would say the most gold he ever found would fit in a teaspoon,” Powell said. Although Goldville’s rush largely faded by 1849, the search for gold in Tallapoosa County was not entirely over. Mining periodically returned to the region over the decades that followed, most notably at Hog Mountain. The site, located about 4 miles from Goldville, eventually became the most extensively developed gold mine in Alabama, producing roughly half of the state’s recorded gold. During later operations, miners there used increasingly sophisticated methods, including cyanide processing, to extract gold from crushed ore. LAKE MARTIN Living 19

THE HIDDEN HISTORY OF GOLDVILLE After the Gold Rush

Left: The old Hog Mountain mine (Tallapoosa Gold Mine) around 1935; Below: Moonshine operations were usually hidden in the woods; Facing Page: Frank Farris and Tallapoosa County Deputy Sheriff Harlan Bence are shown beside an 1800-gallon still that was found several miles from Cowpens. It was the 54th still destroyed by Tallapoosa County officers, Alabama Beverage Control officers and federal agents in 1951.

When the mining operations were eventually abandoned, the land surrounding Goldville found a new purpose. Families, including Powell’s, turned to farming, while remnants of the old mining industry were used for a riskier local venture – moonshining. Moonshiners repurposed some of the old water systems, taking advantage of both the water supply and the isolation of the surrounding woods to produce illegal liquor. “Nothing good was ever said around here about Goldville,” Powell laughed. “It was first filled with miners – the toughest people in the country at the time – and saloons. Then during the Depression days, as I call them, the people who turned to farming had to have something to substitute their income, so this country turned into a moonshining country.” Goldville was hardly alone. Homemade liquor had been produced throughout rural Alabama for quite some time, and Prohibition only pushed the practice further underground. Alabama enacted statewide Prohibition in 1907, more than a decade before national Prohibition took effect in 1920. Although national Prohibition ended in 1933, moonshining continued in rural communities across the state. For struggling farm families, there was also an economic incentive. The Great Depression devastated Alabama agriculture, sending cotton prices and farm incomes plummeting.

20 LAKE MARTIN Living

In places like Goldville, Powell said, making whiskey or brandy offered some families a way to supplement what little they could earn from the land. Several of Powell’s late family members were among those who made moonshine. Their whiskey and peach brandy earned a strong reputation around the area, he said, attracting customers that occasionally included some wellknown names and politicians. Moonshining also came with its own language and rules. Although the terms “moonshiner” and “bootlegger” are often used interchangeably, Powell said his father taught him there was a distinction between the two. “There’s a difference between moonshiners and bootleggers,” Powell said. “Bootleggers make it and then sell it; moonshiners sell it before they make it.” Perhaps one of Goldville’s most notable connections to that era was through John Malcolm Patterson, Alabama’s 44th governor and a Goldville native. Powell was present years later when Patterson returned to Goldville and, during a retirement speech, reflected on the role moonshiners had played in his own family’s life. “He said that his granddaddy had come down with flu in 1935,” Powell recalled. “And when he did, he had a crop in the field, corn and cotton. And that you would think the good Christian people from the local churches would come and cook for his grandmother and plow his granddad’s fields. But he said, ‘I’m going to tell you who did it – the moonshiners.’” According to Powell’s recollection, Patterson went on to say that he never forgot what those men had done for his family. Powell said Patterson joked that when he later became governor, he put a “hedge of protection” around Goldville to keep law enforcement from interfering with its moonshiners – his way of returning the favor. Over the decades, Powell has explored many of the abandoned mines hidden throughout the woods surrounding Goldville, and even

THE HIDDEN HISTORY OF GOLDVILLE occasionally took visitors to see them firsthand; however, these tours are now a thing of the past. After decades of erosion, cave-ins and deterioration, Powell said the old mines have simply become too dangerous to explore. “Walking through the woods today, you would never know they were there,” Powell said. “They are all shut down now. You have to know where they are.” That has not stopped Powell from sharing the stories handed down through generations of locals. Over the years, he has spoken about Goldville’s past with visitors and media outlets, including Alabama's 42, helping preserve the town’s fascinating history. Powell also proudly displays a framed photograph of Goldville’s original hotel at his home, taken in 1948 and believed to be the only known photograph of the building. And while Goldville may be a ghost of the booming town it once was two hundred years ago, the stories that live on through the few remaining locals are worth their own weight in gold. Information for this story was sourced from the Encyclopedia of Alabama, U.S. Geological Survey historical gold-mining reports and Russell Lands.

LAKE MARTIN Living 21

BAD WEEDS W

eeds in the home lawn, garden and landscape can easily become a major pest problem. If left alone and not effectively prevented or controlled, they will quickly mature, multiply and take over an area. Late summer and early fall in particular are peak times for weeds if one has not managed them earlier in the season. Amazingly, there are several unwanted plants that will thrive in the heat and just take over the lawn and garden. There is no great way to describe them; some are just really bad and difficult to deal with. So, where to begin? That is the thought process that goes through the mind of a homeowner, gardener or paid worker when it comes to eliminating weeds and overgrown growth around the property. All weed Shane Harris control options are on

GARDEN TALK

22 LAKE LAKEMARTIN MARTINLiving Living 22

the table – mowing, trimming, pulling, tilling, mulching or spraying. Choose your method and get after them. Here is a list of six nuisance weeds that love the heat and dry days of late summer and will cause even a saint to say some ugly words.

1.

CHAMBERBITTER (Phyllanthus urinaria)

Chamberbitter is an annual and is by far the worst of all the summer weeds. It is everywhere! This broadleaf weed is common throughout the Southeast and can be found across the entire state of Alabama. This highly adaptable plant thrives in full sun and warm soils, typically appearing in summer and persisting into fall until frost. Chamberbitter, also known as gripeweed, grows upright and resembles little mimosa seedlings. It reproduces exclusively by seed and pops up everywhere – from sidewalk cracks and gravel driveways to landscapes, gardens, nursery pots, forest margins, dry fields and roadsides.

Chamberbitter

Virginia Buttonweed

LAKEMARTIN MARTINLiving Living 23 23 LAKE

Chamberbitter’s extensive root system and large seed production can allow it to outcompete nearby vegetation or suppress container-grown plants. Postemergence herbicides containing 2,4-D are the products of choice in lawn areas. In natural and garden areas where a nonselective herbicide can be safely sprayed, use 41 percent glyphosate.

2.

VIRGINIA BUTTONWEED (Diodia virginiana)

Virginia buttonweed is another weed you do not want but will likely get anyway. This perennial broadleaf weed has a creeping growth habit and reproduces by seeds, roots and stem fragments. It has four-petaled white flowers borne in each leaf axil, producing round, buttonlike seed capsules. Virginia buttonweed is one of the most difficult weeds to control in lawns, as it is not readily controlled by most lawn weed killers. It is even harder to eradicate in gardens and fields since glyphosate will typically not even kill it. It usually flourishes in moist to wet areas and can tolerate mowing heights as low as 1/2 inch. Pulling Virginia buttonweed up by hand is often ineffective because creeping roots or fragments left behind may establish a viable plant. Grab a shovel and dig it up.

3.

COMMON LESPEDEZA (Kummerowia striata)

Common lespedeza is a warmseason annual legume that is very distinctive due to its three oblong leaves. It is mat forming, with wiry or woody stems and a prostrate growth habit. This plant flowers in late summer with single pink to purple flowers found in leaf axils on most of the nodes Common Lespedeza of the main stems. Lespedeza is especially prevalent in poor soils or thinning turf that is low in nitrogen fertility and is a very common weed in centipede grass lawns. It also has a semi-woody taproot and grows close to the ground, making it difficult to cut with a mower. 24 LAKE MARTIN Living

To control it, apply a three-way herbicide, sold as a broadleaf weed killer, containing 2,4-D, dicamba and mecoprop (MCPP). Glyphosate can be used cautiously for spot treatments around ornamental plants.

4.

KUDZU

(Pueraria montana)

Kudzu is that notorious invasive vine from Asia that has spread all over the Southeast after being introduced in the 1930s and 1940s. Kudzu has a large root system that is loaded with energy reserves, which allows it to resprout vigorously after many attempts to control it. Folks are known to have to beat it back with a stick to keep it from taking over. Recommendations are to control it through mowing, grazing or treating it with labeled herbicides. Kudzu can be tricky to eradicate because it is usually growing over or beneath some desirable tree species. The mats of vines and leaves that kudzu forms also make it difficult to obtain good coverage during a foliar leaf application. In addition, many herbicides that are highly effective on kudzu are also soil-active and may damage trees you wish to keep. Kudzu can be managed and eventually eliminated but seek professional advice for realistic control options and proper herbicides.

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PERENNIAL GRASSES

Perennial grasses such as common bermudagrass, dallisgrass, torpedograss, bahiagrass, tall fescue, carpetgrass and orchardgrass may all be great grasses in the pasture, but they are most definitely weeds in the lawn and garden. Here they are found growing where they are not wanted. Perennial grasses tend to be coarse and even tough on lawn mower blades, with many exhibiting ugly seedheads that do not conform to the lawn décor.

Kudzu When the perfect lawn is suddenly invaded with these wild grasses, it is very difficult to get rid of them. Chemically, it is hard to kill a grass within a grass because one is very limited in herbicide options. Hand pulling and digging may indeed be the realistic choice for eliminating them. The use of nonselective herbicides like glyphosate may be necessary to remove perennial grasses. This may mean killing all grasses, good and bad, lawn and weeds, and renovating portions of the lawn once these perennial grasses are gone.

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NUTSEDGE AND KYLLINGA

Nutsedge and kyllinga are both perennial plants in the sedge family that can really be a nuisance in the home lawn. They tend to invade bare spots and take advantage of poor growing conditions and poor drainage areas. Nutsedge reproduces by underground tubers called nutlets and has the ability to spread rapidly. Cosmetically, it can rapidly outgrow the lawn, sticking up new shoots despite recently being mowed. Kyllinga is similar to nutsedge, but it tends to form a denser patch of growth, resembling surrounding turfgrass. It has the ability to tolerate low mowing heights, making it hard to mechanically remove its seedheads. Maintaining healthy, dense turfgrass is key to preventing nutsedge and kyllinga from becoming a big issue. Common broadleaf herbicides will not work on them, so sedge-specific chemicals must be used to control them. Products with halosulfuron, imazaquin, bentazon or sulfentrazone are labeled for control of nutsedge and kyllinga.

Kyllinga

The best defense against some of these tough weeds, specifically the annuals, is to use a preemergence herbicide to prevent seedlings from developing each year. Timing is critical; these herbicides must be applied prior to seed germination, usually in early spring. Also, do not let these weeds mature and go to seed; this is the common-sense approach against all weeds, both annuals and perennials. More seeds mean many more headaches for years to come. If these late-summer weeds are present and bad now, take action today so the situation doesn’t become even worse next summer. For help with 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.

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Blue Advantage® is a PPO and BlueRxSM is a PDP with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Blue Advantage (PPO) and BlueRx (PDP) depends on contract renewal. This is a solicitation of insurance. Contact may be made by an issuer or insurance producer. C PlusSM is a Medicare Select Plan and is a private insurance plan regulated by the Alabama Department of Insurance. It is not connected to or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Blue Advantage (PPO) and BlueRx (PDP) are provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 1 Doctors refers to Medicare participating providers. Source: BCBSALMedicare.com/WhyBCBSAL 2 Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5 star rating system. Source: BCBSALMedicare.com/WhyBCBSAL 3 We are available Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. CST. From October 1 to March 31, the hours of operation are Monday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. CST. You may be required to 26 MARTIN Living leave LAKE a message for calls made after hours, weekends and holidays. Calls will be returned the next business day.

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• A Medicare-approved Part D plan • Pairs with C Plus or Original Medicare • Helps pay for prescription drugs LAKE MARTIN Living 27 Y0106_NTMAdvert226_M

Brothers Beyond the Battlefield A soldier's journey from 9/11 to Alexander City STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS & COURTESY OF JOSE GARCIA

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“I knew that my heart was here. I had never spent a day in Alex City, but these were my brothers. It was like coming home." ~ Jose Garcia

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n September 11, 2001, a series of attacks changed the world forever. At 8:46 a.m., an airplane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City, sending smoke and flames billowing from its windows as confusion quickly spread across the streets. Just a few miles away was Jose Garcia, a 26-year-old full-time recruiter for the National Guard. The day had begun like any other as Garcia took the train to Broad Street in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to open the recruitment office. “I saw the World Trade Center every morning when I went to work,” Garcia said. “I remember everything like it was yesterday. I got to work around 7:30 a.m., opened up the storefront, started a coffee pot – it was just like any other day.” It wasn’t until a mail carrier stopped by that Garcia first heard the devastating news – a plane had hit one of the World Trade Center towers. Garcia quickly turned on the small TV in the office, adjusted the antennas and tuned in to a news broadcast. Like millions of Americans that morning, he watched as first responders bravely raced toward the scene. Still in disbelief, Garcia stepped outside to see for himself what was unfolding. With the World Trade Center directly in his line of sight, Garcia watched in real time as a second airplane crashed into the South Tower, just 17 minutes after the first impact. It was at that moment any lingering belief that the first crash had been an accident vanished, and Garcia knew in the pit of his stomach that something far more serious was happening. “I had to go back inside and watch the news to believe what I just saw,” Garcia said. “I knew this wasn’t right. I immediately thought, ‘We’re under attack.’” Garcia stayed glued to the TV as the magnitude of what was happening began to unfold and, eventually,

watched as both towers collapsed. He soon received a phone call directing him to follow force protection protocol, close the recruitment office and return home to wait for further instructions. Garcia made his way to the bus station and waited for nearly an hour and a half before realizing no one was coming. Transportation throughout the area had been halted. With no other way to get home, Garcia walked 12 miles back to his apartment, arriving drenched in sweat and with his mind racing over everything he had just seen. In the days that followed, military protocols were put into place, and units began receiving assignments to provide security at buildings and other locations. America, Garcia recalled, felt like a battlefield. A total of 2,977 victims died on September 11, and the attacks also became painfully personal when Garcia later learned that his friend David Lemagne, a Port Authority police officer, had been inside one of the towers when it collapsed. For Garcia, experiencing the attacks so close to home left him wanting to be part of the response, and he soon asked his colonel for the opportunity to serve – a decision that would ultimately change the course of his life. On March 23, 2003, Garcia received the call that he was being deployed. Within three days, he was sent to Fort Benning, Georgia, where he met the soldiers and command staff of the 214th Military Police Company out of Alexander City. Among them were locals Grady Abrams, Bill Harrell, Reid Tapley, Myles Warren, Chris Clark, Avery Morris and Scotty Watson. Garcia trained alongside the unit for about a month before they were deployed overseas. Together, they arrived at Camp Victory in Kuwait, where the unit spent about a month acclimating to the extreme heat and preparing for what lay ahead.

LAKE MARTIN Living 29

Garcia recalled temperatures reaching around 140 degrees at midday. “If you walked on asphalt, your boots would leave prints on the floor because they would be melting as you walked,” Garcia said. “It was brutal.” As one of the original units deployed, there wasn’t much waiting for them when they arrived in the Middle East. Vehicles and equipment still had to be shipped over, and the soldiers learned quickly that they would be establishing their operations as they went. On May 28, the unit moved from Kuwait into Baghdad, where they were tasked with securing the area for units that would follow. Garcia and the other soldiers had to build and fortify their position from the ground up. At first, they believed they would be there for about six months – and for the Alabama unit, that meant making it home for in time for one of football season’s biggest rivalries. “I remember 1st Sgt. Walker making a speech saying that we’ll be home before the Iron Bowl,” Garcia said. “This is an Alabama unit, so they set their clock according to football. Me, being a kid from New Jersey, I didn’t even know what the Iron Bowl was, but everyone was excited. They told me that it meant Thanksgiving. “But then in August, the president got on TV and said everybody has a mandatory extension, and we were going to be there for a year. Some guys were upset, some started tearing up. That’s when the reality hit us that we were going to be here for the long haul.” As six months became a year, the world the soldiers had left behind seemed increasingly far away. Being the early 2000s, internet access was limited and Garcia recalled the soldiers were rationed about an hour every other day on satellite dial-up. Sometimes, 45 minutes of that hour could be spent simply waiting for a webpage to load. Mostly, they relied on old-fashioned mail to connect with their families and friends back home. A letter could take around 40 days to make the round trip between Iraq and the United States. News of babies being born or family members passing away arrived long after those moments had passed. Care packages also became small but important reminders of home, and the families of the Alexander City unit members made sure there was enough to share. As a New Jersey native, some of those packages also offered Garcia his first unexpected introduction to Southern culture. “I now had friends in the South,” Garcia said. “I remember

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the Tapley family would send me packages of cheese straws, which I never knew what a cheese straw was until then.” As the months passed, Garcia grew increasingly close to the Alexander City soldiers around him. Being slightly older, he naturally began thinking of himself as a big brother to some of the younger men, always looking down the line and making sure everyone was safe. Then, on July 7, their training was put to the test when the unit came under attack for the first time. Gunfire broke out, and the soldiers responded almost instinctively. They had trained for that moment so many times that their reactions had become second nature. When it was over, Garcia remembered the men looking at one another almost in amazement. Then, three months later, the danger became even more personal. On October 7, a massive riot broke out along Highway 8 in Baghdad. During the chaos, a hand grenade was thrown into the crowd, peppering Garcia and Chris Harris with shrapnel. Injured, Garcia limped toward Harris – yet, neither was willing to leave the other soldiers behind. The two continued pushing forward alongside their unit for another four grueling hours of battle. It wasn’t until helicopters finally dispersed the crowd and the riot came to an end that Garcia and Harris went to the medical tent, where pieces of shrapnel were removed from their legs. Through those experiences, Garcia and the Alexander City soldiers grew even closer, referring to themselves as a “band of brothers.” From sunup to sundown, they faced the same dangers and carried the same memories. In an unfamiliar world thousands of miles away, they had become the familiar faces each could count on. The unit also relied on what Garcia refers to as “dark humor” to help get through the toughest days. “There were peaks and there were valleys,” Garcia said. “We suffered in silence and laughed our way through it.” One of the unit’s most difficult days came October 27, 2003. That morning, Bonded Through Battle members of the unit Left: Jeff White, Willie Riggins and were manning their Jose Garcia on the day of the Oct. 2003 riot; A mosque along Highway post at a police station outside of Baghdad 8, nicknamed Ambush Alley by when, around 8:45 soldiers; Facing Page Left: Myles Warren, Reid Tapley and Jose Garcia a.m., an explosion in Kuwait; The 214th unit returning rocked the building. home in Fort Benning, Georgia. “I looked at Reid

Tapley and said, ‘That was close. That’s not good,’” Garcia said. “As Reed would always say, we literally felt like a long tail cat in a room full of rocking chairs.” Among the soldiers at the police station that morning was fellow unit member Sgt. Aubrey Del Bell, a man Garcia remembers as a “gentle giant” with a soft heart. It was Ramadan, and an Iraqi family with children was being held at the jail. Bell had taken it upon himself to make sure they had food – an act of kindness that reflected the person his fellow soldiers knew him to be. As Bell stepped outside the police station that morning, a suicide bomber pulled up to the building and detonated an explosive, tragically killing Bell and several others. The unit was ordered to stand down for 72 hours, and Bell was honored with a memorial service and 21-gun salute – but there was little time to grieve. Almost immediately following the ceremony, the unit received orders to return to duty within the hour. “We had to keep going with our mission,” Garcia said. “We were all a little angrier, but we had to keep going. The war didn’t stop.” After nearly a year, Garcia was given an opportunity to return home for two weeks in January 2004. It should have been the moment he had been waiting for, but instead, leaving felt strangely alienating. The men he had lived beside, laughed beside and fought beside were still in Iraq. “I didn’t feel worthy enough to come home until my friends came back,” Garcia said. Even his departure seemed determined to remind him of the harsh reality of war. On the ride to the Baghdad airport, the area came under mortar attack. Bombs dropped around them, and Garcia recalled feeling as though the sky itself was falling. Then, as the men prepared to leave, they were told they would be escorting a soldier on the first leg of his journey home. It was a sobering and emotional moment as a casket was loaded onto the plane. The entire flight, Garcia strained to see the name written on it, terrified that it might be one of his friends. It was a moment that Garcia will never forget. “One soldier came home, one never came back,” Garcia said. When Garcia’s deployment finally ended in June 2004, returning to the United States brought a deeper gratitude for the beauty and freedoms of his country. “I was having a cigarette on the military base coming back from Iraq, and I was taken back by the fact that I could hear birds chirping,” Garcia said. “The sun was clear, and the colors

were so vibrant. You had to put on sunglasses because you couldn’t believe how bright it was in the South.” Garcia returned as a Purple Heart recipient, along with Alexander City residents Chris Harris and Andy Burdett. Garcia recalled the intensity of the deployment, with roughly one in five soldiers receiving Purple Hearts. But as Garcia prepared to return to civilian life, another realization began to set in. He had a plane ticket to New Jersey, the place he had grown up – but he knew it was no longer the place he called home. That place was Alexander City, where the men of the 214th were. After more than a year fighting alongside one another, they had become more than fellow soldiers – they had become brothers for life. A year to the day after Garcia received the orders that sent him to war, another set of orders brought him back to Alabama as full-time support staff for the 214th Military Police Company. “I knew that my heart was here,” Garcia said. “I had never spent a day in Alex City, but these were my brothers. It was like coming home.” Today, at 52, Garcia is married to his wife, Crissie Garcia, and has five college-age children. Garcia now owns Anytime Fitness and also serves as an Opelika police officer. He retired from the military in May 2020, but the friendships made during that first deployment have remained strong to this day. “September 11 didn’t just change my life, it became my life,” Garcia said. “I did the entire global war on terrorism with the 214th MP company. I deployed with them several times to different locations, and they are my family at this point.” As the 25th anniversary of the World Trade Center attacks approached, Garcia looked back on that first deployment with emotion, pride and humility – not only for what he experienced but for the people with whom he experienced it with. “September 11 is a day of remembrance, and the rebirth of what my life is today,” Garcia said. “Because without that day, none of this would have happened. There’re bad memories, there’s sad memories, but the good outweighs the bad.” Still, Garcia does not want his story to overshadow those of his Alexander City brothers – or those who never came home. “I was just one person,” Garcia said. “I don’t want my story to overshadow David Lemagne, the Port Authority Police Officer who was killed, or Sgt. Aubrey Dale Bell, the soldier who was killed on a battlefield. These are the guys that gave the ultimate sacrifice. They need to be honored and never forgotten.” LAKE MARTIN Living 31

QUACKING FOR A CAUSE Annual Elks Lodge Duck Race makes a splash for local charities STORY & PHOTOS BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE

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undreds of bright yellow rubber ducks bobbed along the shoreline as a crowd gathered and cheered from the deck of the Alexander City Elks Lodge, watching closely for their lucky pick to break away from the pack. Before long, a lone duck floated over the finish line, earning this year’s winner bragging rights and the $1,000 grand prize. For nearly two decades, the highly anticipated Alexander City Elks Lodge Duck Race has become a beloved local tradition, bringing the community together for a day of live music, good food and a little friendly competition – all for a good cause. And this year’s event, held July 18, brought one of the biggest turnouts yet. Approximately 700 ducks were sold – the most in the event’s history – while nearly 300 people attended the festivities. “It’s just great seeing the support from that many people,” said John Freeman, president of the Alex City Elks Lodge. “The event is an opportunity for the community to come together and not just help one organization, but many local charities, and have a good time.” Pulling off one of the lodge’s largest events of the year takes plenty of helping hands. In the days leading up to the race, Elks Lodge members Donny and Louise Pritchard took on the task of sorting and organizing hundreds of numbered ducks while Mike Lucas, Keith Askew and Dave and Denise Beck fired up the cookers on race day for a Lowcountry shrimp boil. Adding to the afternoon’s festivities, Aaron Smithey and Kyle Wilson kept the crowd entertained with live music on the deck. Together, the volunteers helped turn the annual event into a full afternoon of fun, fellowship and fundraising. This year’s Duck Race raised approximately $10,000, with proceeds helping the Elks Lodge support local organizations such as Loaves and Fishes, Backpack Buddies, the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center and Camp ASCCA. “The funds raised through this event help further our

charitable giving abilities,” Freeman said. “The more successful we are as Elks, the more we can help other people in the community.” That spirit of giving extended beyond the Alexander City lodge during the weekend, as representatives from 18 of the 22 Elks lodges in Alabama made the trip into town for the race. Their visit coincided with the annual Elks Appreciation Day at Camp ASCCA, where members and guests had the opportunity to tour the camp and see firsthand how their support is making a meaningful impact. Camp ASCCA has served as the Alabama Elks Association’s state major project since 2010. Elks lodges throughout Alabama raise money for the camp each year, with the state association contributing $50,000 annually to support camp programs and projects. Over the years, that support has helped bring a number of accessible projects to life throughout the camp. One of those projects came in 2019, when Alabama Elks raised more than $40,000 for a new tritoon pontoon boat named “The Floating Elk.” The custom boat allows campers who use heavier wheelchairs to safely experience rides out on the water. For members of the Alexander City lodge, having Camp ASCCA just a short drive away makes the statewide partnership especially meaningful, allowing them to see firsthand how the Elks’ support is making a true difference in local communities. That same spirit of giving remains at the heart of the annual Duck Race, and after another record year, Freeman is optimistic about the event’s future. “We’ve got a great foundation started, and the support from the Elks and the community the past two years has been phenomenal,” Freeman said. “We look forward to growing the event even bigger and better every year.” Learn more about the annual duck race and upcoming events on the Alexander City Elks Lodge Facebook page. Off to the Races A record number of ducks were launched this year while a crowd of more than 300 people were in attendance.

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A Kidney Wake-Up Call

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ou don’t really think about your kidneys. They’re kind of like the utilities in your home – they don’t cross your mind until there’s a power outage. Likewise, you don’t think about your kidneys, quietly and industriously doing their jobs, until that little chunk of calcium lodges in one of them and it feels like your cell mate just shanked you with a filed down spoon. I’m talking, of course, about kidney stones – probably the most common acute kidney malfunction. Aside from kidney stones, most kidney problems occur under the clinical radar, at least early on, so you don’t even know your kidneys are falling down on the job. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nine out of 10 Americans with chronic kidney disease don’t even know they have it. An estimated 37 million Americans – about 14 percent of the adult population – are living with CKD. About 150,000 of those folks live in Alabama, ranking the state 28th in the nation, with No. 1 representing the lowest incidence. Vermont holds that spot. The typical person has two kidneys. They are fistsized and shaped like, well, a kidney bean. They are basically in-line filters for your circulatory system,

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pulling out waste products and excess water and diverting the filtrate, or urine, to your bladder. Your kidneys also regulate the levels of minerals and four key elements – potassium, sodium, calcium and phosphorus – in your blood. They also produce a hormone called erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood cell manufacturing. My refrigerator has a light on the icemaker that comes on when the water filter needs to be replaced. If I don’t replace the filter, and it’s during the annual algae bloom, I can taste the earthy flavor of the algae. Once I put a new filter in, the water tastes fine. Likewise, there’s a sticker on the air filter in my HVAC system. If I forget to change the filter, the HVAC system works harder to cool the house in the summer or heat it in the winter. Your kidneys act like those filters. If the kidneys are functioning at the top of their game, your blood stays copacetic, and your urine is Grade A – relative to urine, that is. As your kidneys deteriorate, they become less efficient at removing trash and excess water from your blood. Your blood becomes toxic and fluid starts to build up in your body much like a clogged kitchen sink. At first you don’t notice. You might progress

through the first two of the six stages of chronic kidney disease without having a clue, which is why it’s very important to see your doctor for a wellness visit every year. Your doctor can get blood and urine samples and run those through a chemical analyzer at the lab. Those tests can help identify early kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease is not a primary illness, but the consequence of other chronic illness; namely, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and obesity. So, if you suffer from any of these chronic illnesses, it’s important that you and your doctor keep an eye on your kidney function. If you start experiencing any of these symptoms: blood in your urine, low urine output, foamy urine, swelling in your ankles, pain in your back or side, or shortness of breath, it might mean that you’ve progressed to a symptomatic stage of CKD. Pick up the phone and call your doctor’s office for an appointment. As Ben Franklin once said, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Let’s keep your kidneys healthy in George Miranda the first place and avoid or delay kidney disease. Here are some tips: Control your blood pressure and blood sugar. Excess sugar in your blood is like putting sugar in your gas tank. Eat a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet: vegetables and fruits, whole grains, meats in moderation. Avoid processed foods, saturated fats and added sugars. Especially if you are prone to kidney disease, reduce your salt intake. Adults should generally consume less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day. Maintain a healthy weight with a combination of healthy diet and exercise. Obesity is tightly related to increases in blood pressure, blood sugar and

MEDICAL NEWS

cholesterol. This helps not only your kidneys, but your heart as well. Stay hydrated, especially when exercising, in a hot climate or expelling a lot of moisture through sweating, vomiting or diarrhea. Extreme dehydration can trigger acute kidney injury, which can be life threatening and may also cause permanent kidney damage. Some medicines, particularly nonsteroidal antiinflammatory pain medicines like ibuprofen and naproxen, can cause kidney damage if overused. Talk to your pharmacist or physician if you chronically take these medications. Drink alcohol in moderation and quit smoking. Both of these can damage blood vessels, including the tubules in your kidneys. Unchecked, CKD will progress to end-stage renal disease, requiring regular dialysis or a kidney transplant. In Alabama, there are around 14,000 adults on dialysis, and between 1,000 and 2,000 on the kidney transplant waiting list. Only around 300 transplants are performed regionally, which means at least some kidney failure patients don’t live long enough to get a new kidney. So, it’s best to avoid this last stage of kidney failure. Finally, a word about disparities in kidney care. For a constellation of reasons, African Americans and Hispanics have a higher burden of kidney disease than persons of European descent. Economically disadvantaged patients are more burdened than wealthy persons. And rural communities have a higher rate of disease than urban communities. This puts a sizable portion of our community at higher risk for CKD than the average American. These disparities are only partially explained by genetics. The more obvious culprits are access to medical care, medical insurance and healthy foods. And of course, our cultural influences – particularly in the South – contribute to these disparities. I mean, who doesn’t love bacon-wrapped barbecue ribs? ~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center.

Where every detail matters and every client leaves with a smile.

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Retire with Confidence:

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Five Budgeting Tips

etirement is a milestone many people spend decades working toward. But without a clear plan for day-to-day spending, financial uncertainty can make it harder to enjoy the freedom retirement brings. In my 35 years serving families in the Lake Martin area, I’ve helped many people prepare for and adjust to retirement. While every financial situation is different, a realistic budget can help you balance essential expenses, unexpected costs and the experiences that make retirement rewarding. Whether you’re already retired or preparing to retire soon, these five steps can help you manage your finances with greater confidence.

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Step 1: Assess your income

Step 5: Reduce debt

Start planning by identifying all sources of income that you will receive during retirement. This includes Social Security, pensions, retirement accounts, annuities and passive income. Understand how much money you will receive each month so you can establish a budget that aligns with your needs and goals.

Aim to begin retirement with little to no debt. Pay off high-interest loans such as credit cards and personal loans to free up money for essential spending and leisure activities. If you have a mortgage, evaluate whether paying it off early or refinancing makes sense based on your financial situation.

Step 2: Create a realistic budget

Plan confidently for retirement

To create an accurate budget, break your expenses into categories such as: Essential spending: housing, utilities, groceries, health care, insurance and transportation Discretionary spending: travel, dining out, hobbies and entertainment Unexpected costs: medical emergencies, home repairs and inflation adjustments One helpful starting point is the 50/30/20 budgeting guideline, which allocates 50 percent of income to necessities, 30 percent to discretionary spending and 20 percent to savings, investments, debt payments or unexpected expenses. These percentages can be adjusted based on your income, priorities and retirement needs.

Step 3: Track and adjust expenses

Managing finances during retirement doesn’t stop once a budget is created. It’s important to periodically review your expenses and adjust your budget as needed. The key to managing retirement spending is flexibility. Think about what the first five years of retirement will look like and how your spending may change after that. Tracking your spending may also allow you to identify areas where you might be able to cut costs without sacrificing quality of life. If you need support, a trusted banker can help you create a plan to balance current expenses with future goals.

Step 4: Withdraw carefully

Plan ahead for how you will use your retirement savings to avoid depleting it during the first few years of retirement. Some retirees use 4 percent as a starting point when planning annual withdrawals, but there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Your expenses, life expectancy, investment mix and market conditions can all affect how much you can comfortably withdraw. Incorporating an emergency fund into your budget may prevent the need to withdraw from your savings often.

Budgeting doesn’t mean giving up the things you love. It means managing your money wisely so you can enjoy this chapter of life. By assessing your income, creating a budget and making cautious financial decisions, you can achieve financial peace of mind. Many retirees focus largely on replacing their paycheck but underestimate health care expenses and inflation over a 20- to 30-year retirement. One of the most valuable things you Lori Harrell can do in the first year of retirement is to monitor your actual spending and adjust your budget accordingly. Retirement spending is a journey. Visit your local Valley Bank branch to learn how to think ahead, stay flexible and build a retirement strategy that supports every stage of your life.

MONEY MATTERS

~Lori Harrell is retail market manager at Valley Bank overseeing the Dadeville branch. She has been in the banking industry for 35 years. * This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as specific advice for any individual. Valley National Bank does not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. 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. Please consult your legal, tax and/ or accounting advisors before making any financial decisions.

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OH SNAP! Sun Festival Family Night 1

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Friday, June 12, 2026 Alexander City 9

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1. Sheila Lyles and Randy Lyles 2. Randy Dawkins and Courtney Layfield 3. Ellen and Terry Martin 4. Jennifer Carlisle, Mike Densmore, Tammy Salinas and Karen Marable 5. Lonnie and Dorthy Benson, Mike Densmore and Steve Marlowe 6. David Johnson, Tyler Lashley, Michel Bryan and Chris Spivey 7.Tammy Green, Forrest and Linda Forbus and Randy Dawkins 8 Michael Temple, Julie Harbin, Jimmy Abbett and Ray Arrington 9. Teresa Grier, Lori Harrell and Denise Walls

Alex City Elks Lodge Duck Race OH SNAP! 1

4

2

5

3

6

7

Saturday, July 18, 2026 Alexander City 1. Cathy and Jerry Hagood 2. Alethea Askew and Cindy Trimble

8

3. James Turner, Robert Norred, Greg Baker and Reese McAlister 4. Louise Pritchard and John Freeman 5. Jennifer Durrett, Greg Baker, Vicki and Millie Pike and Eddie Durrett 6. Terri and Kenney Lawhorn 7. Stephanie Rheaume, Pat Wesson and Pam Boykin 8. Wes Waters, April Gamble, Chris Dennis, Kim Dunn, Ryan Lackey and Bobby Dunn LAKE MARTIN Living 39

OH SNAP! Black Jacket Symphony – The Eagles 1

3

2 4

6

5

7 8

Saturday, August 22, 2026 The AMP 1. Teresa and Whitt Dekle 2. Rusty and Nadine Black and Trisha and Ryan Barber 3. Jamie Wise and Jan Cusimano

9

4. Patricia and Frank Wyville 5. Mark and Carol Dutton 6. Brandon and Amanda Baker and Tommy Green 7. Mike and Mel Whitaker, Randy Williams and Teresa and Mike Caldwell 8. Shelby Eads, Lacey Funderburk and April, Chip, Tammy and Eric Edwards 9. Sherry Barrett, Beth Peek and Shiela Shelley

40 LAKE MARTIN Living

D.A.R.E. Public Safety Fun Day OH SNAP! 1

2 3

5

4 6

7

Saturday, August 15, 2026 Charles E. Bailey Sportplex

1. Drew Machen and Luke and Isabell Sivley 2. Brian and Betsy Ray and Chelsea Hall 3. David and Brett Johnson

8

4. Porsha Burroughs, Carrie Rivera and Havier Wentz 5. Karina Heard, Taylor Pace and Kylee Heard 6. Briar Johnson, Gabe Hocker, Josue Rivera, Lane Waley and Z Hocker 7. Hunter Stubbs, Cooper Nichols, Kolton Hardiman and Zach Baty 8. Michel Bryan, Samantha Lewis and Easton and Brinlee Bryan LAKE MARTIN Living 41

OH SNAP! Children's Harbor Poker Run & Block Party 1

2

3

4 5

7

6

8

9

10

Saturday, August 15, 2026 The Ridge Marina 1. Team “Seas the Day” 2. Jared Jones, Kaden Rossman, Collin Jones and Riley Dixon 3. Dexter and Jo Dell Hambaugh, Dod and Judy Hamre and Dolly Bell 4. Cat Outzen, Allan Cutts, Brent and Linda Burns and

11

12

Rhonda White 5. Baylor and Phillip McKenzie 6. Brad and Jessica Macon and Clyde 7. Becky Napier, Grace Adams and Fred Dobbs 8. Caroline Bolton and Laura Ellis 9. Anderson Radney, Tyler Watts and Lauren Marino 10. Jason Adams and Hank 11. Vivian and Bryant Garrett 12. Scott Sturdivant and JJ McGrady

42 LAKE MARTIN Living

LAKE MARTIN Living 43

THE LAKE REGION

Calendar

FEATURED EVENT

Tales from the Tombstones Dadeville's history comes back to life

F

or one evening this October, some of Dadeville’s most notable historic figures will come to life once again – right beside the places where they were laid to rest. The inaugural Dadeville Historic Cemetery Heritage Walk, presented by the Dadeville Historic District Committee in conjunction with the Tallapoosa Historical Society, will take visitors on a guided tour through the town’s cemetery as costumed reenactors portray 10 of the most influential people from Dadeville’s past. Dressed in period clothing, each reenactor will stand near a gravesite and bring an individual to life through storytelling and character portrayal, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of those who helped shape Dadeville and Tallapoosa County. Several reenactors are descendants or had relatives or friends who knew the characters. Among the historic figures are F.N. Farrington, an expert on soil erosion who introduced kudzu; Nora Miller, a businesswoman and founder of The Miller Hotel; Gen. Michael Jefferson Bulger, a brigadier general in the Confederate States Army and state senator; Adam Hill Wilder, former owner of the Dadeville Coca-Cola Bottling Co.; and Effie Wise, an educator, community leader and local historian. The walk will also introduce figures from Dadeville’s military, medical, religious, agricultural and business history, with stories stretching back generations. Money raised from the event will help preserve the cemetery, with proceeds helping fund crucial maintenance and restoration projects, such as repaving the roads and maintaining aging gravesites. The Dadeville Historic Cemetery Heritage Walk will begin at 5 p.m. October 10, with a rain date set for October 11. Check in is at 4:45 p.m. and children under

44 LAKE MARTIN Living

16 must be accompanied by an adult. Advanced tickets are $10 and available at the Tallapoosa County Museum, 214 N. Broadnax Street; Tallapoosa Nutrition, 132 Living History W. Cusseta Street; or online Below: Reenactors will portray 10 notable at historicdadeville.org. figures from Dadeville's For more information, visit past. historicdadeville.org.

LAKE REGION EVENTS September 17

Art Walk & Wine Tasting

Stroll through downtown Alexander City during an evening art walk and wine tasting from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ten shops and storefronts will feature wine and hors d’oeuvres served along the way. Tickets are $25. For more information, email alexcityarts@gmail.com.

September 18

All for Ada Golf Tournament

Swing for a cause at the All for Ada Golf Tournament at Stillwaters Golf Club. The fundraiser will support StillWaters residents, the Watts family, as they continue young Ada’s medical journey. Tee time is at 1 p.m., with lunch, door prizes, on-course contests and mulligans available. Team registration is $400. Sponsorship packages are available. To sponsor a team, register to play or learn more, call 256-329-3954 or 256-307-1081.

September 24

Lake Martin Living Art & Photo Contest

The annual Lake Martin Living Art & Photo Contest, presented by Glenda Mitchell Law Firm, returns to the Dadeville Performing Arts Center for an exciting evening celebrating local arts. The showcase will feature a cocktail reception, door prizes and live music, with proceeds benefiting DPAC. Tickets are $25 at the door or Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. office in Alexander City. Contact editor@lakemartinmagazine. com for more information.

September 26

Lake Martin Hiking Challenge: Nature’s Way Preserve Trail

Join in on a fall hike along the Nature’s Way Preserve Trail from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 1033 Old Tree Road in Dadeville. Enjoy scenic lake views and fall foliage while completing a portion of the Lake Martin Hiking Challenge. The hike is open to all skill levels, and participants will receive free water, T-shirts and stickers. For more information, email info@ explorelakemartin.com or visit explorelakemartin.com.

September 26

Pumpkin Patch Opening Day

Kick off the season at Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm with a day of fall fun from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Opening day will feature arts and crafts vendors, a food truck and free face painting from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pumpkin picking and farm activities are $12 per person for ages 2 and older. Pony rides will be available for an additional charge. The pumpkin patch will also be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. throughout October. Visit the Blue Ribbon Dairy Farm Facebook page for more details.

October 1

Lunch & Learn

Hosted by Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama, Jessica Fuller with Ivy Creek Home Health will present on home safety from noon to 1 p.m. at 5030 U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City. Attendees are encouraged to bring a sack lunch; dessert and tea will be provided. The program is free and open to the public. Reservations are required by noon September 28. Call 256-2340347 or email vcca.al@gmail.com to reserve a space.

October 3

Dadeville Fall Festival

Celebrate fall in downtown Dadeville from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with local vendors, live music, arts and crafts, familyfriendly activities and plenty of food. For more information, email chamber@ dadeville.com.

October 3 & 4

Po’ Ol’ Kowaliga Regatta

The classic Lake Martin tradition returns for a weekend of competition and camaraderie. The two-day regatta welcomes sailors to compete in the DSC Catalina 22, MC Scow, Flying Scot and open fleets. For more information or to register, visit dixiesailingclub.com.

October 4

Pumpkin Carving Tutorial at Wind Creek State Park

Join park naturalist Dylan Ogle at the Wind Creek State Park Clubhouse for a guided pumpkin carving tutorial and

learn tips and techniques for creating the perfect jack-o’-lantern. The program is open to all ages and costs $10 per person. Online registration is required. For more information, call 256-8279540 or email dylan.ogle@dcnr.alabama. gov.

October 8

Lunch & Learn

Hosted by Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama, Phil Blasingame and Abby Guy with River Bank & Trust will present on fraud, including how to spot it and ways to prevent it, from noon to 1 p.m. at 5030 U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City. Lunch will be provided by River Bank & Trust. The program is free and open to the public. Reservations are required by noon October 5. Call 256-234-0347 or email vcca.al@gmail. com to reserve a space.

October 10

46th Annual Oktoberfest

Join Alexander City Parks and Recreation from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for the 46th Annual Oktoberfest and Custom Car Show. Enjoy vendors, food, entertainment and family-friendly activities, including a petting zoo, inflatables and arts and crafts. For more information, contact Megan Blake at 256-596-1846 or megan.blake@ alexandercityal.gov.

October 17

Kylee Cooper Farm’s Pumpkin Patch Fall Festival

Celebrate fall at Kylee Cooper Farms’ first Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy pumpkin patch fun, local vendors, food trucks and more. For more information, call 334-380-1298.

October 23, 24, 25 & 30 ACT II’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Alexander City Theatre II brings Washington Irving’s iconic tale to life in a spooky stage production of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Performances October 23, 24 and 25 will be held at Radney Junior High School in Alexander City. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. The October 30 performance will be held at the Tallassee Performing LAKE MARTIN Living 45

LAKE REGION EVENTS Arts Center, with tickets available for $10 online or at the door. Visit the Alexander City Theatre II Facebook page for more information.

lunch unless otherwise noted; dessert and tea will be provided. Registration is required. Call 256-234-0347 or email vcca.al@gmail.com.

are open to beginners. Email office@ dadevilleperformingartscenter.com for more information.

Season-long Events

Mahjong Open Play at Carlisle’s

Experience the beauty of Lake Martin with Wind Creek State Park’s painting series. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or just looking to try something new, these inspiring sessions are perfect for all skill levels. Visit alapark.com/parks/windcreek-state-park/park-events for the scheduled painting topics, dates and times. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors.

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. For the scheduled subject topics, dates and times, visit russelllands.com/events.

Carlisle’s Soda Fountain will host mahjong open play each Tuesday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in downtown Alexander City. The weekly event is free and open to players of all skill levels. RSVP by Monday evening through the TeamReach app using the code 35010NEWS.

Cars & Coffee

Friday On The Green

Enjoy Cars & Coffee on The Square in downtown Dadeville. Held on the fourth Saturday of each month through October, this family-friendly gathering welcomes car enthusiasts from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. to showcase classic, custom and modern vehicles. For more details, call Michael at 334-663-5323 or Shannon at 256-749-7477.

Weekly Birdwatching Adventure

Throughout September, visit the Naturalist’s Cabin for a hands-on science lesson inspired by Russell Forest. Children can share what they are studying in science class, and the Russell Lands naturalist will create an on-the-spot lesson using plants, wildlife and other items found in the forest. The program is appropriate for all ages. For more information, call 256-496-2710 or email Naturalist@ Russelllands.com.

Every Friday through September, 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. Visit russelllands.com/events for the full lineup.

Join the Wind Creek State Park naturalist on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. to learn about feathered friends that call Lake Martin home. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors. For details, email dylan.ogle@dcnr. alabama.gov.

Yoga On The Green

Find your zen on Saturday mornings through September at Russell Crossroads. Starting at 7 a.m., Yoga On The Green is led by certified instructors and designed for participants of all experience levels. For more details, visit russelllands.com/ events.

Lunch & Learn

Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama will host a free Lunch and Learn series each Thursday in October from noon to 1 p.m. at 5030 U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City. Programs include home safety, fraud awareness and prevention, winter gardening and plant care and more. Programs are free and open to the public. Attendees should bring a sack 46 LAKE MARTIN Living

Simmering in Science

Bingo Night at the Elks Lodge

Try your luck at Bingo Night every Thursday at the Alexander City Elks Lodge. Open to the public, the weekly event features a $400 little pot, a $1,200 big pot, wings, drinks and frozen beverages. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and bingo begins at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit the Alexander City Elks Lodge Facebook page.

Adult Guitar Lessons

Join instructor Judy Hughes for a beginner-friendly adult guitar class at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center on Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon. Lessons are $5 per class and

Painting in the Park

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@ dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

Covered Dish Social

The Real Island Volunteer Fire Department hosts this monthly covered dish social on the third Friday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the training center, located at 1495 Real Island Road in Equality. Whether a longtime resident, visiting or new to the area, everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy an evening of fellowship.

Dulcimer Club

All levels of mountain dulcimer players and those blending traditional instruments are invited to gather at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursdays to rehearse for performances at a variety of community events. The group plays old-time, gospel and traditional music. For more details, email kim.walls@ dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

LAKE MARTIN Living 47

9

GOLDVILLE 280

GOODWATER

Legend

To Sylacauga

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

Public Boat Ramps

NEW SI

Churches

★ Points of Interest

22

280

Power lines

Timbergut Landing

9

U.S. Highways

280

County Roads

14 22

ALEXANDER CITY

4

★

Camp ASCCA

★

Alex City Boat Ramp

3

Charles E. Bailey Sportplex

ROCKFORD

Hor Na

Jaybird Landing

49 128

22

COOSA COUNTY

9

★ New Hope Church Liberty Church

9

★Smith Landing 34

63

Camp Alamisco

★

Kowaliga Boat Landing

5

55

★ Camp Kiwanis

Trillium

Children’s Harbor

★ The Amp 18 ★

Ko w

ali

ga

2 Ba

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Chimney Rock

23

31 49

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

1 12

Church in The Pines

25

9

28

Smith Mountain Fire Tower

10 11

17

EQUALITY SEMAN

57

DAD

Willow Point

7

24

★

Young’s Island

27

280

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Peanut Point

259

20

231

Creek ★ Wind Boat Ramp

26

11

29

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

JACKSONS GAP

Stillwaters22

19 6 30

8

Union Landing

★

WALNUT HILL

90

24 21

UNION

80

50

CENTRAL

Martin Dam

RED HILL

15

★

63 229

SANTUCK

49

ECLECTIC 13 KENT

ELMORE COUNTY

Reeltown

120

14

231

14 14

TALLASSEE WETUMPKA 48 LAKE MARTIN Living

229

MACON COUNTY

Explore

DAVISTON 22

Lake Martin

ITE

★

rseshoe Bend ational Park

CHAMBERS COUNTY

DEVILLE 16

N Y

20

50

CAMP HILL

280

WAVERLY 50

1

Kowaliga Marina

256-397-1210

2

The Ridge Marina

256-397-1300

3

River North Marina

256-397-1500

4 Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors

256-397-1700

5 Real Island Marina

334-857-2741

6 Blue Creek Marina

256-825-8888

7 Parker Creek Marina

256-329-8550

8 Harbor Pointe Marina

256-825-0600

9 Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's

256-444-8793

10 SpringHouse

256-215-7080

11 Catherine’s Market

256-215-7070

12 Kowaliga Restaurant

256-215-7035

13 Acapulco Mexican Gril

334-283-2725

14 Russell Do It Center (Alex City)

256-234-2567

15 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic)

334-541-2132

16 Russell Building Supply

256-825-4256

17 The Stables at Russell Crossroads

256-794-1333

18 Kowaliga Whole Health

334-857-1816

19 Aronov Realty Lake Martin

256-825-4133

20 Off the Beaton Path

205-994-0847

21 Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage

334-391-0717

22 Creekside Lodge

256-307-1440

23 Red Ridge UMC

256-825-9820

24 Lake Pointe Baptist Church

256-307-1499

25 LakeScape

334-857-2443

26 Docks Unlimited LLC

256-203-8400

27 Dixie Sailing Club

LEE COUNTY LOACHAPOKA

28 Lakeshore Pharmacy

256-825-0063

29 Singleton Marine

256-269-0088

30 Momentum Marine

256-825-9286

31 Martin's @ Lake Martin

256-307-1338

Your Lake Martin Sightseeing Pass. Scan me!

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NOTASULGA 85 81

Get on the Map! 256-234-4281 LAKE MARTIN Living 49

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 Bailey’s Benjamin Lake Club Big B Barbeque Bone & Joint Specialists Carib Kitchen Carlisle's Carlos Mexican Grill Cazadores 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 Frances Parlor by SJ The Ridge Club The Square Sure Shot Outdoors Tippy Canoe Truist Bank Valley Bank Walgreen's Warren Appliance Wicker Point Clubhouse 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 TALLASSEE: Chuck's Marina 1220 Cafe City Hall Chamber of Commerce Courthouse Community Hospital Creekside Lodge Eagle (Gilmer Ave) Dadeville Public Library Elliot's at Red Hill Dadeville Wellness Center First Community Bank Deep Water Docks Guardian Credit Union Ellaby Boutique Louie's Chicken Fingers Farmer's Merchant Bank MaePop's Barbecue Floyd's Feed and Seed Marathon (Kent Rd) Flutterflies Red Hill Gallery Harbor Pointe Marina Holiday Shores Grocery WETUMPKA: Ivy Creek Urgent Care First Community Bank Jim's Pharmacy The Wetumpka Herald Office Lakay's Lake Martin Community Hospital EQUALITY: Lake Martin Dadeville Area Equality Food Mart Chamber Parker Creek Marina Lake Martin Pizza Co. Real Island Marina Lakeshore Pharmacy Southern Star Lake Martin Realty The Landing at Parker Creek Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe Martin’s at Lake Martin ECLECTIC: McKelvey Anchor Bay Marina, Inc. Miller's on Broadnax Children's Harbor Thrift Store Millstone Japanese Maple Nursery Cotton's BBQ Momentum Marina Eclectic Public Library Niffer's Place First Community Bank Oskar's Johnson Furniture Company Payne's Furniture Kowaliga General Store Phoenix Nails Kowaliga Marina PNC Bank Kowaliga Restaurant Poplar Dawgs LakeScape Porch and Pine Lake Martin Dock Company Renfroe's Market Lake Martin Machine Gun Route 49 Lake Martin Mini Mall Russell Building Supply Lake Martin Reflections Spa Shell Nails Siggers Offshore Marina Stillwaters Country Club Russell Do It Center StillWaters Residential Office Slice of Eclectic Store 34 The Social at Lake Martin The Backyard The Cart Source Get Lake Martin Living delivered The Grand Bakery to your mailbox for just $75 per Three Sixty Lake Martin, LLC year. To start your subscription, call Two Ghosts Coffee Baily Terry at 256-234-4281. Valley Bank LAKE MARTIN’S PROFESSIONAL Wisp and Well

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LAKE MARTIN Living 51

AD INDEX Alexander Landscaping ................................................................................... 8

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery...........................................................5

Auburn University Real Estate Foundation.......................................4 3

Phoenix Nail Salon.............................................................................................. 3 5

Blue Cross Blue Sheild..............................................................................26-27

Plastic Surgery Associates of Montgomery....................................... 5 5

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation................................................................. 6

Prime Home Health............................................................................................. 8

C&C Wood Products............................................................................................ 6 Central State Bank..............................................................................................5 2 Diamond Golf Cars...............................................................................................1 3 Four Seasons........................................................................................................... 5 3 George Hardy, D.M.D........................................................................................... 6 Highway 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage...................................... 5 3 Hinson Galleries.....................................................................................................1 2 Holland Haul Away...............................................................................................5 1 Kara Bloom, RE/MAX..........................................................................................1 6

Radney Funeral Home....................................................................................... 8 Red Flag Pest Control......................................................................................... 6 Russell Medical......................................................................................................5 6 Slate Barganier.........................................................................................................5 Southern Sash.........................................................................................................5 1 Stanley Steemer.................................................................................................... 5 3 Sunrise Docks..........................................................................................................5 1 The Cart Source........................................................................................................2

Karen Channell, State Farm.......................................................................... 5 3

The Eclectic Warehouse...................................................................................1 7

Kowaliga Veterinary Care............................................................................... 5 3

The Shoppes Downtown...................................................................................5

Lacey Howell, RE/MAX Around the Lake................................................3

TowBoatUS...............................................................................................................5 0

Legacy New Homes...........................................................................................4 7

Will Tampling...........................................................................................................2 1

52 LAKE MARTIN Living

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY NEWSPAPERS. IT’S WHAT WE DO. LAKE’S ANNUAL BRIDAL

FAITH, PAGE A7 feelin’ groomy

Read area

basketball inside updates today’s sports

Serving the

VOL. 122,

1897

CORD Dadeville

NO. 7

THURSDAY,

FEBRUARY

14, 2019

Elmore County’s Oldest Newspaper

Photos by Jimmy

Local pastor resisted

Departhe Alexander City Fire of its ment conducted one periodic controlled burns owned Wednesday on a house Church, adjaby Calvary Heights Baptist chief Reese 280. Fire cent to U.S. Highway is conducted at McAlister said the training as structures become least 10 times a year all reghters on available. For four hours, smoke and temperthe ‘C’ shift battled toxic than 1,200 degrees. atures reaching more out,’ McAlister said. ‘It was wearing them they work good ‘We want to make sure that burned Wednestogether.’ The house in the basement and day had water damage to repair it, McAlister the church didn’t want Capt. Jeff Brewer said. Training ofcer of each reghter’s 16 said the burn is part to training each month hours of continuous said the re departstay certied. Brewer applications for ment is currently accepting experience is previous reghter/EMTs; no must be 18 or older. needed but candidates Page 9. For more photos, see

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CEO: Ivy Creekto in Dadeville ‘be stronger’

Healthcare Ivy CreekTuesday it was announcedButler County and a closing but said its Elmore will WILLIAMS By CLIFF hospital county facilities Staff Writer Tallapoosa Board closing open. County remain said it was Tallapoosa Superintendentis Ivy Creek Medical Center closure of Educationsaid the system 31. The the Georgiana March of cosmetology Joe Windle effective a realignment by at adding training looking and is part of services driven Bell Record and teaching File / The healthcare difficult financial at the Edward • Page A3 Center. Cenprograms the current See IVY CREEK Technical Technical at and Career looked it,” Bell Career and teaching “We have into at the Edward cosmetology thoughts program be adding put our Monday’s will soon the healthcare said at Much like Windle “We did surveys. school board want meeting. they all 40 ter, the countyprograms. get Cosmetology, and training We will • Page A5 to do this. See TECH FOHV GV Call or 8QFODLPHG $EDQGRQHG 9HKL go onlinebuy 0RELOH +RPHV 6XUHW\ %RQ :H·UH $ODEDPD·V to browse, 9HKLFOH 7LWOH or sell! 3UREOHP ([SHUWV DUV

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schools County career to add to tech programs

Today’s

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62 48

with God

think,” I was about 35, I I started Watkins said. “And God preaching because called me to. I certainly didn’t want to.” carWatkins, who is 83, of years ries with him 48 and memories of success convert to failure attempting He when John Watkins said people to Christianity. to Victory God first called him a has been pastor of was U.S. preach, his answer Baptist Church on resounding no. Highway 280 in Alexander God But Watkins said resis- City for 40 years. keeps his The aging minister slowly wore down life his a Bible and his reading tance and during has all times glasses nearby at ward as a Baptist minister who — the Bible to help counseled teenagers glasses to conjured off Satan and the believed they had study the Word. up the dead and preached in 500 prosThe Outlook Watkins said he was to a gathering of Ron Colquitt / For 5 See WATKINS • Page titutes. when memorable has experienced many “I started preaching of Victory Baptist Church, frightened teens. John Watkins, pastor a Ouija board to calm including throwing out moments in his career Watkins. By RON COLQUITT For The Outlook

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LACEY HOWELL 256.307.2443

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ILLABEE

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By DANIEL DYE opened business, large Senior Reporter crowd, small, yet quaint,lunch Restaurateur Richard space, and sandwiches eating made to had no idea how well Rogers order have resulted customers a sandwich shop in downtown Wetumpka patiently waiting to get would be received. to try a Copper House the chance Deli He had his answer three sandwich for the first time. days after opening Copper “Our principle is to slice House Deli’s doors to the public last and cheese daily,” Rogers meat week. “In three days, we sold “With that, it takes time said. over 400 sandwiches, over to keep fresh meat and and effort 100 of banana pudding and dishes coming. We do not storecheese it in a averaging around 22 we are customers an freezer. We do not have a big hour,” Rogers said. walk-in freezer. Everything is “We managed the crowd pretty much fresh.” during our preopening. The According to Rogers, day we the deli’s opened to the public top-selling Lock 31 sandwich we had no is a idea we would have prime example of the people lined deli’s desire up waiting outside to to use fresh ingredients. get inside.” The According to Rogers, smoked brisket is supplied Copper by a House Deli seats 24 people inside. local restaurant every morning. He has plans to add The same goes for the 10 more seats with tables outside. banana pudding. It is sourced A combination of a newlySee DELI • Page A2 Copper House Deli

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148 employees at Wetumpka textile plant to lose jobs By DANIEL DYE Senior Reporter

One of those eight principals be named Alabama Principal will of the Year and represent the National Principal Alabama in of program sponsored by the Year the Association of Secondary National School Principals. The counties in District include Elmore, Coosa, 4 Chambers, Lee, Macon, Tallapoosa, Bullock and Russell. “For us to do what we’re and the level of education doing students are getting with these the funding we’re given to do it with we have great teachers shows and great Wetumpka High School principal Dr. Robbie Slater File / The Herald See PRINCIPAL • Page A2 of says his recent recognition the school’s students and teachers. is a direct reection

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etumpka High School principal Dr. Robbie Slater has been named District 4 Principal of the Year High School by Association of Secondarythe Alabama Principals and American School Fidelity. “I’m excited about the opportunity,” Slater said. recognition is a direct “The reflection of our school’s teachers and students.” Slater and the other seven principals who received the same recognition in their respective districts will be interviewed by a selection committee.

T

is Editor’s note: This story the first of a two-part of about the experiences John local Baptist preacher

Est. 1898 | thewetumpkaherald.com

2019 | VOL. 121, NO. 45

By DANIEL DYE Senior Reporter

Wigfield / The Outlook

the call but got on board

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 6,

Peers select Wetumpka’s Slater as District 4 High School Principal of the Year

Practice run

Dadeville

e Courthous square project has setback

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH WETUMPKA, , A9

THE WETUMPKA HERALD PRINCIPAL OF YEAR

D.COM EVILLERECOR WWW.THEDAD

WILLIAMS By CLIFF Staff Writer the four years For nearlyCounty Commission have been Dadeville Tallapoosa the City of and the on plans to renovate and working square in Dadeville received courthouse the commission the project. of Monday could derail the end bids at news that with “We opened Jeff Harrison and Associates the month,” at its monthly CDG Engineers commission low bid told the Monday. “The We were meeting at $1.48 million. came in off the mark.” partnered severely for and city The countyin 2015 and 2016 Alternative in applying the Alabama TAP (Transportation grants with Projects) of Transportation Dadeville DepartmentThe City of (ALDOT). to provide $135,000 and was going grant funds county in in matching fees and the engineeringto provide $94,000 fees. was going grant funds and testing fees and matching would the bid With engineering over paid for, already project to $700,000 bring the was budget. the project was Originally, $900,000 and for budgeted renovating sidewalks, to includeutilities and landscaping. county moving project both on of way, With the property and rights Commission and city County combined Dadeville the Tallapoosa City of try and get more and the to As the their projectsfor the money. work done project progressed, the idea of scope and eventually so did thean idea for one-direction • Page A5 included See SQUARE

BELL TOWER GOES UP AT FIRST

75¢

By JIMMY WIGFIELD Managing Editor

i i area since & Lake Martin

THEBeautRificatiEon Board at work Avenue Ann AL 11 S. Tallassee,

City & Lake Martin since 1892

No. 23 www.alexcityoutlook.com

Historic accomplishments lead to lifetime achievement award

Carol Page: ‘You are God’s design’

SPORTS, PAGE B1

serenaded on her Barbara Young was by a crowd that to 88th birthday Thursday ovation on the way gave her a standing lifetime achievement a the stage to accept City Chamber award from the Alexander of Commerce. many historical Young, who achievedescorted by her was firsts in Alex City, Fifth Circuit Judge son, recently retired Tom Young Jr. was the 334-991-4592 Barbara Young’s recognition banchamber’s annual centerpiece of the at the Betty Carol quet Graham Technology people Center. In fact, few on have had the impact many as many lives in as Alex in ways as Young has City. “I watched so many parchildren grow up intoa prein Church. said Dianna ents,” Young said Young Smith amount First Baptist The Outlook. Wayne vious interview with first female princiMayor done a tremendous something tackling. became the board is and decorated Porter hasat Keebler Park, take pride Young Alexander City School System should city, pal in the beautificationrenovated Day,” Forbus of work better and A3 also the first female mayor of the the city “We havefor Valentine’s to plant trees everyone in litter,” is looking • Page and before retiring in 2012. war on the park serving two terms Mickey the gazebohave also started declared in since in education, See BEAUTIFICATION “We have board member picking on Young spent 34 years and said. “We been property at Benjamin Russell teaching 13 years beautification“We have other day we again.” is on city from the principal of Radney said. The gazebo just across serving as the first and said she always Forbus already. Just the trash bags Street WILLIAMS up trash 25 industrial-sized Elementary School, By CLIFF Tallassee up Street.” Board Staff Writer picked wanted to teach. Lafayette thing the girl, I would dress Beautification only “When I was a little it is doing along West not the them,” Young said. The Dadevilleof the work Tuesday Litter is up my dolls and teach me to go to college, some for City Council explained “When it was time going for anything to the Dadeville I never thought about night. else.” Alex City’s Young, who was named also served in 1973, Woman of the Year teacher for more than as a Sunday School Baptist Church of 50 years at the First graduated from the Alexander City. She See YOUNG • Page 3 spa pet salon boarding

EDITION INSIDE

FRIDAY

THE

Lighting the way for Alexander

February 1, 2019 Vol. 127,

Young honored for impact on city

Nearly 150 employees Frontier Spinning Mills at located in Wetumpka (FSM) were notified the textile plant recently will close a few days after Christmas. The North Carolina-based company’s only Alabama facility, Plant 81 located on Central Road, will cease operations Plank 29, according to a notice Dec. provided to The Wetumpka Herald. The Wetumpka plant opened Its announced closure in 2001. comes two years after a $6 million investment that resulted capital in the construction of a new warehouse and the acquisition of new state-of-theart fiber preparation and open-end spinning equipment. Elmore County Commission chairman Troy Stubbs said director of human resources,FSM’s Robert Kain, faxed notification of See CLOSING • Page A2

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Ivey gives TPD nearly $2K for severe weather clothing

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GREATER

TALLASSEE

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struggle for equality

50¢ VOL. 120, NO. 9 During a program Black History to commemorate a gathering Month, Reeves King was told Holiness at God’s Congregation on Dexter at the church in Church Thursday Montgomery in a rally Avenue,” was he took I’m going and felt with King in Montgomery part therea young man andReeves said. “I threatened I was when him off to take this brick by police. “I remember that horseback the police came sitting and knock times when hold rallies Reeves horse.’” around on with whips was we used in Montgomery “Son, put said King’s response to me there and we wereand Dr. King when Dr. being was, praying. down.” that (brick) down With King, ‘If a young man, I and sit told he hits me Reeves said with that Dr. black people many indignities whip, faced during protests and See REEVES • Page A6

and takes orders for the

Wetumpka

Daniel Dye / The Herald

hungry lunch crowd.

Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded nearly $2,000 to enable the Tallassee Police Department upgrade to its equipment. According to city officials, the department plans to use outfit police the funds to officers with severe weather clothing, including rainwear. high-visibility “Police are important first responders during times of severe weather,” Ivey said. to help the “I am pleased Tallassee Police Department purchase basic but essential items officers and to protect their visibilityincrease public during to the severe weather.”

This is just one of many grants has received the city to fund its departments. taking office Since in 2016, city has the been over $1 millionawarded in grant funding from various sources. Last was awarded year, TPD zero-match a $50,000 grant from the Department of Homeland Security. See IVEY • Page A2

Fab Follies

with MLK

Entertainme nt in store at Mt. Vernon Theater

STAFF REPORT TPI Staff

staff makes sandwiches

Annual Arbor Day held in Tallassee

The Tallasse e Tribune

TALLASSEE , AL 36078

TALLASSEE

Reeves recalls

By CARMEN Staff Writer RODGERS

Elmore County Reeves remembers Commissioner Earl Luther King a time Dr. civil rights Jr. showed him Martin what the non-violent leader’s commitment protest was to all about.

By CARMEN Staff Writer RODGERS

With family, friends and Eagle Scout fellow members badge on John Burgess. of Boy Scouts of America

Burgess By CARMEN Staff Writer RODGERS

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present, Scout

gets Eagle

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stage for

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Harper Davis, Laci Hammonds, Madeline Weldon Macey Stewart, past performance and Noah Gannt Elise File / The of the Fabulous performed the Scroggins, Lilly Noble, Tribune JUJU Dance Morgan Follies. skit for a packed houseMerrett, during a WHEN

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The 22nd Follies, one annual performance of the Fabulous scheduled Tallassee’s most Friday at popular fundraisers, 7 p.m. Proceeds is slapstick from the show, comedy, which is departments go directly filled with to Performersat Tallassee High the band and choir School. range in whose 50th-year age from preschool high become to some memories. school reunions doctors and Teachers, have already preachers, production. others work together lawyers, in this annual “Come members and see fine, upstanding lip community ridiculous sync, dance and Tallassee ways to benefit sing in the most City Schools our music said. music teacher department,” Michael The THS Bird Hammonds, Jazz Band, directed and the New by Mike directed Image by program. Amanda Anderson, show choir, will perform Tickets in the 0910 or are $10 and available 334-283-3689. by calling 334-306-

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Tallassee’s Vernon Theaterhistoric Mt. its upcoming has announced schedule, with the classic movie starting With The “Gone 1 p.m. Wind” on March 23 at This year marks the 80th anniversary. film’s Tickets are and will not $5 On March be sold online. 15 at 7 p.m., McCraney-Cottle the Arts will present a Night of Council Music. Featured 50s the rock-a-billy artists include Martini Shakers group The and the doowop group Kenneth The Four Voicemen. Loomis will featured also be as 1950s will Elvis. Cars from Tickets are also be on display.the $15 On March each. 16, RAM:CORPS will take the Produced stage at 7 p.m. by Kenn RAM:CORPS Hughes, is a unique explosion with intenseof music and theater choreographed musical experiences trumpets, featuring trombones,mellophones, baritone contras, saxophones horns, drumline. Tickets areand a On March $10. children’s 17, Christian Pattycake performer Miss p.m. Miss will take the stage Pattycake at 3 is a See THEATERbrightly • Page A2

/ The Tribune

Davis pins

Scout pin

playground, equipment replaced and repaired ith friends, and Eagle Scout added landscaping. some of the Boy Scouts family and fellow on, John of America looking rank attainable is the highest achievement Burgess in the Burgess was honored as an Eagle earned 28 Boy Scouts program.or to Eagle merit badges First United Scout Feb. 18 in Tallassee. Scout at Methodist “John Burgessand one bronze during his climb To become Church medal. is unique an Eagle of Troop completed Scout, in 59,” “He progressedBSA member the recent history at FUMC a project to give Burgess Michael the playground through program Bird said. features. a new look with the with improved He ceasing his the same troopentire scouting Boy Scout and other members safety without ever activity or Troop 59 Bird said repaired of Tallassee’s Burgess membership.” fencing around “John has has always the always seemed been precocious. older than See BURGESShis real • Page A3

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Life Happens Where Your Feet Are

I

have always believed in a little bit of magic and astrology. I’m a Virgo. I write this on my birthday, September 1. I find myself here today at the ripe old age of 41, and I celebrated as any high-functioning adult should: with a toasted Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart. I purposely went to the store to purchase one yesterday. My brother texted me happy birthday, and I sent back a photo of the Pop-Tart on a paper towel. I’m definitely not doing dishes on my birthday morning. He said, “Best birthday breakfast ever,” and of course it is, because it’s what we ate before school in the ’90s. My birthday was always a double-edged sword, marking the end of summer but bringing the excitement of the beginning of a new school year and fresh school supplies. I know other Virgos feel the same way; it’s almost like a “new year.” I stepped outside this morning, and it was still hot. Summer is in full force. Sometimes you get that first cool breeze early in the morning around Labor Day, but it’s not here yet, and that’s just fine with me. There is plenty of boating left to do. Waking up, 41 did not feel as exciting as turning 40 did. Fortieth birthdays have so much emphasis placed on them as a milestone. Turning 40 was a big party, and it seemed like friends had parties all year long, so there was always something going on. People take stock of where they are in their lives, and I’m sure that can be positive or negative for many. I believe we need to start celebrating these “in-between” years more often in a big way. I get it – it’s a Tuesday, and everyone has to work, but I sort of wish I was having a pool party with Pizza Hut, being gifted a bunch of Barbies, along with Lacey Howell a rocking-themed cake baked by Ann Thomas. Maybe 41 is not about dramatic reinvention but more of an opportunity to take stock of what’s happening and set some fun goals. I am happy with where I’m at, and I don’t want to miss any opportunity to soak up the good stuff in life. The little stuff in life. Be willing to take a small side quest every once in a while. I found a great Jerry Peters painting at Long Leaf Antique Mall this past month when I just needed a break. He has passed away, and I always regretted not purchasing one. Taking the time to go for a stroll yielded a reward. I scrolled back through my August camera roll and – no joke – it’s mostly shots of houses and screenshots of property lines and documents. There are clips of a wine dinner at the Depot with John and several photos of my dogs and horse. But I did more than that. I got into a very good habit this summer

Culture Shock

54 LAKE MARTIN Living

of putting my phone away during meals and when I was out with friends. I don’t keep it on me when I ride my horse. It meant fewer photos, but it has made me more present, and I think that’s my biggest goal for myself in the next year. It’s simple: “Be where your feet are.” Be present. For example, I had a great Thursday afternoon boating with my college friends that ended with a SpringHouse dinner and a sleepover in an old Russell cabin that had just the right smell. That was good for the soul. When I take buyers into old cabins and they turn up their noses at the smell, I tell them that smell should be a candle. Probably the witchiest thing I did this summer was during a night boat cruise home, when I told John I had not seen a shooting star all summer. I was looking off to one side, and he was looking forward, and he said, “No joke, I just saw one.” I like to think I summoned that star for him! One thing is for sure: you don’t see shooting stars if you are looking down at your phone. And speaking of looking down at phones, John and I were on a walk last Sunday, and he never takes his phone. This day, he happened to have it and was responding to a text. I, for once, was not on my phone and was looking ahead of us. Not two steps ahead of John was a copperhead. I screamed his name, and he slid to a stop and jumped about 4 feet into the air over the snake while my brain was slowly computing that the snake was, in fact, run over and dead as a doornail. Once we got our heart rates back down and started laughing, it was yet another lesson about being present and being where your feet are. I honestly had 10 snake encounters this summer and almost wrote the article on that, but I feel like it would have been bad for tourism. So just ask me to see some pictures next time you see me. I have a theory about snakes on the move after 10 p.m. All of this to say, this morning I knew I had to write this column, and I didn’t have much inspiration with that first cup of coffee. I had the wooden door of my kitchen open to the glass storm door, and a mockingbird pecked on the window and perched on my planter (that has no flower in it because who has time for that). I have a thing with birds and angels, and it was definitely my dad saying, “Happy birthday.” If you knew him, you know how much he talked and talked and talked, so he’s always been a mockingbird to me in his next life. My birthday wish for you readers is to never grow up, look up every now and then and never stop believing in magic. Now I’m off to ride my horse! ~ 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.

LAKE MARTIN Living 55

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