May/June 2007

Vol. VI, No. 3 MAY/JUNE 2007

Alexander City’s Senior Activity Center

New Features… Be a Wise-Energy User K Safety News You Can Use Plus… 2007 AMEA Scholarship Winners K Fairhope’s Festival of Flight K Blue Bell’s 100th Birthday Celebration in Sylacauga and more! In My Opinion

ublic power is truly an • 2,010—Number of public power systems in the American tradition. More U.S. Pthan 2,000 cities and • 1880—Year first public power systems were cre- towns in the U.S. light up their ated. homes, businesses and streets • 2010—Year by which one out of every three pub- with public power – electricity lic power systems will celebrate a centennial. that comes from a community- • 1,400—Number of public power systems serving owned and operated utility. communities with populations of 10,000 or fewer. Each public power system is The mission of public power utilities is to serve their different, reflecting its home- customers. They measure success by how much money town characteristics and values, stays within the community through low rates and con- but all have a common purpose: providing reliable and tributions to the city budget. safe not-for-profit electricity at a reasonable price. Today, some 44 million people are served by public For more than 125 years, public power has been a power utilities, and 2.8 billion business customers are tradition that works across the nation on behalf of its served by public power nationwide. communities and customers. Today, it is a thriving seg- I commend the men and women of your public power ment of the electric utility industry. utility as they continue to shine a light in your home- Public power utilities range in size from small to town. After all, public power is hometown power….an large, including the Los Angeles Department of Water & American tradition. Sewer, which is the largest public power utility in the U.S., serving approximately 1.4 million customers. Here are some additional facts about public power: • 49—Number of states with public power systems (all but Hawaii).

Some electric power companies come and go... hirty-six Alabama cities have public power utilities that Tprovide electricity to their citizens. They range in size from cities like Huntsville to cities that serve fewer than 2,000 meters. Like citizens in more than 2,000 communities across the United Fred D. Clark, Jr. States, these Alabama citizens choose to provide electric service through public power systems. Not-for-profit electric utilities are accountable to the customers they serve. Nationwide, public power provides the electric power needs for 44 million Americans. Like community police, fire departments, water and sewer departments, parks, schools, and hospitals, public power systems are rooted in the American tradition of local people providing for their basic community needs. Public power systems provide service — electricity at not-for-profit prices. Public power’s low electric rates are magnets for community economic development. So is its ability to provide stream-lined “one-stop shopping” customer services that encourage existing business customers to maintain and Pete Gardner and Dale Jenkins serve on your Local Communications Commit- expand their operations and attract new business. Strong, tee for the City of Lafayette. The committee serves as the “ears and eyes” of your community for the Alabama Currents and other communications efforts stable employers mean strong, stable jobs for local citizens. to keep you informed about your municipal electric system.

ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 Inside This Issue

VOL. VI, NO.3 MAY/JUNE 2007 4 AMEA leaders attend Legislative Rally in Washington

A publication of 8 Congratulations 2007 AMEA Scholarship Winners Alabama Municipal Electric Authority P.O. Box 5220 Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5220 News from AMEA Members 804 South Perry Street Montgomery, Alabama 36104 www.amea.com 10 Fairhope 334.262.1126 Robert W. Claussen 11 Foley President & Chief Executive Officer 10 11 Fred D. Clark, Jr. Chief Operating Officer 12 Sylacauga Board of Directors Chairman Wayne Duke V-Chairman Don McClellan 13 Alexander City Secretary/Treasurer Gary Fuller 12 13 Don Boone Timothy Kant Henry Osborne Bill Fann 14 Opelika Paul Lee Morris Tate

ALABAMA CURRENTS Volume VI, No. 3 16 Tuskegee Editor 14 16 Lisa Mller Assistant Editor Sandjanetta Tellis Departments Designed by Walker Printing Company 2 In My Opinion 6 Energy Briefs Printed by Walker Printing Company 4 From The Editor 9 Cooking With Sandjanetta 334.832.4975 5 Safety News You Can Use 14 Out In The Yard Comments may be mailed, phoned or e-mailed to [email protected] 5 Be A Wise-Energy User 15 Places To Go – Things To Do Alabama Currents is published six times each year in Montgomery, AL and mailed to the retail electric customers of AMEA member cities. ON THE COVER

Information in this magazine has been obtained from sources considered reliable but accuracy is not guaran- Senior community is foundation of park teed. Competent legal and/or accounting advice should be sought before acting on information The Charles E. Bailey Sportsplex in Alexander City is proud of the newest in this magazine. addition to the park, the Senior Activity Center. The senior community has been a foundation of the park since its initiation in the mid-1980s. Senior activities MISSION STATEMENT were originally held in the Senior Cabin, which was a 900-square-foot facility. AMEA’s mission is to provide for But now, the seniors can really stretch out in their new 3,000-square-foot facil- our Member communities a reliable and ity that is exclusively for them. The building has a large activity room, kitchen, economical source of electric power, exercise/television room, manager’s office, as well as spacious restrooms. A con- enabling them to preserve and enhance crete patio is nestled between established hardwoods and overlooks the entrance the benefits of municipal utility owner- to the facility and a landscaped pond area. With approximately 50 percent floor- to-ceiling insulated tempered glass, natural lighting pours into the great room ship for their citizens and the electric and the view is marvelous. customers they serve. We strive to offer With over 400 participating senior citizens with the Alexander City Parks and services that our Members need and can Recreation program, there is something to do for everyone. adapt to provide the best value for their For more information on senior activities, contact Corley R. Holt at (256) communities and customers. 329-2910. — By Corley R. Holt, Senior Activity Supervisor

ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 AMEA leaders attend Legislative Rally in Washington bout 700 policymakers and CEOs from the nation’s more than 2,000 public power systems met in Washington, D.C., March 12-15 for the American Public Power Association’s (APPA) Legisla- Ative Rally to convey public power’s success story. Representing the Alabama Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA) in Washington were Chief Operating Officer Fred Clark; Board Secretary-Treasurer Gary Fuller, Mayor of Opelika; Board Member Tim Kant, Mayor of Fairhope; and James Gillespie, Fairhope, AMEA Elections Committee. Leaders met with national delegations on Capital Hill to tell them who public power is, why local control works, how to protect consumers in times of high wholesale fuel costs, and how to help small and medium-sized communities attract businesses and promote economic development through advanced communications services. During the Rally, members of APPA adopted a total of 14 resolutions that will serve as interim policy until the entire membership has an opportunity to review them at APPA’s National Conference, June 25-27, in San Antonio, Texas. Members adopted unanimously a resolution urging Congress to “consider carefully all solutions for addressing climate change” and to incorporate 10 principles in any new federal policy designed to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG). They said federal legislation must be economy-wide and apply to all industry sectors, consider the financial impact on consumers, and protect the ability of U.S. industries to compete in world markets. They also asked Congress to ensure that incentives for the development and deployment of renewable and clean energy are provided on a comparable basis to all sectors of the electric utility industry, including the not-for-profit, community- and state-owned public power sector. The principles were developed by APPA’s CEO Climate Change Task Force, which was formed to provide guidance to APPA and Congress. APPA continues to support voluntary programs to reduce GHG emissions, combined with an aggressive re- search and development program. The task force intends to further refine APPA’s policy over the next few months. Other resolutions supported cleaner power generation through nuclear, near-zero-emissions coal, and ocean wave and tidal technologies. They promoted development of flexible fuel plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and focused on helping to meet the energy efficiency and renewable energy goals of the 2007 Farm Bill. In addition, the group expressed concern about how Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs) have created obstacles to public power systems as providers of reliable and low-cost electric power, and urged Congress to hold oversight hearings on the functioning of the wholesale electricity markets. They urged the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to rigorous- ly enforce Order No. 890 and the revised Open Access Transmission Tariff. They also supported implementation of mandatory and enforceable electric reliability standards based on fair, open, independent and competitively neutral governance of the Electric Reliability Organization. From the Editor reetings! My name is months learning about the rich history of AMEA, public Lisa Miller, and I am your power and municipally-owned electric systems. GDirector of Communica- What I have learned is that for more than 125 years, tions for the Alabama Municipal public power has been a tradition that works across the Electric Authority (AMEA). Dean nation on behalf of its communities and customers. Cus- Argo, who served in this position tomers come first with your municipal electric system. from Oct. 2005 until Dec. 2006, On a personal note, I am a native of Alexander City, assumed the duties of Execu- which is one of our Member systems. So it’s been a great tive Director of Electric Cities of pleasure for me to “come back home” in my work through Alabama Jan. 1. I have the honor AMEA. My husband, Mike, and I are pleased to be a part of and pleasure of continuing his the AMEA family. great work with Alabama Currents, Starting with this issue, you will notice a few changes as well as with various other communication efforts. I am to your Alabama Currents magazine, including color and also honored to carry on the work of Margaret O’Dell, who a heavier stock of paper throughout the publication. We served in this position from 1984 until her retirement in hope you like these changes as they are made to enhance 2005. She left a great legacy here at AMEA and with our your enjoyment of Alabama Currents. Member cities. Thank you, Mrs. O’Dell. As always, we encourage you to contact us with your Prior to joining AMEA in February, I was the Man- ideas and suggestions as we continue to improve your ager of Communications and Public Relations for Central magazine. We welcome any and all input. Alabama Electric Cooperative (CAEC), Prattville, for the I look forward to working for you. past 18 years. As you can see, I have knowledge of electric generation and member-based electric systems. It’s been a wonderful experience these past few

ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007

Lisa Miller and windows for additional cooling. If winter wind is your concern, design windbreaks to reduce wind chill. Plant a combination of trees, afety shrubs and bushes with low crowns to NEWS the north and northwest of the home. Dense evergreen trees protect best, S but plant them at a distance of two to five times the maximum height. As a ou backup, plant bushes and vines about CAN USE a foot from the house to create insu- Y lating air space. May is Electrical By incorporating energy-saving Safety Month ideas into your landscape plans, you can have a beautiful yard and a more Plug into electrical safety pleasing energy bill year round. all year long There’s no better way to Insulation keeps cool air celebrate Electrical Safety Month Landscaping is not just in May than with an electrical in; lowers energy bill inspection of your home. If you for looks anymore didn’t buy your home new, or if Common sense tells you that When doing summer yard work it is more than 20 years old, you closing windows and doors keeps your should have an electrician check or mapping out landscaping designs, air-conditioned air from leaking out of your electrical system to be sure think about how the trees, shrubs and the house, but there’s a bigger pas- it can safely handle your family’s bushes you plant might help lower sageway to the outdoors right above growing electricity needs. your energy bill. you — your attic. The Electrical Safety Founda- Though most people plant just for While the attic might not be the beauty, your municipal electric system tion International offers tips for first place you think of when you selecting the best electrician for reminds you that careful planning can crank up the a/c this summer, a prop- the job: help protect a house from summer’s erly insulated attic can save money • Choose a local contractor. hot sun and winter’s cold winds. on your cooling bill and help ensure a • Ask the electrician to show First, determine the regional consistent temperature throughout the you current insurance climate and the house’s own particular house. certificates for liability, climate. Is the house on a sunny hill Begin by checking to see how property damage and work- or does it get more wind than most? much insulation your house already ers’ compensation. Plant accordingly. has. Check the insulation’s R-value, • Do not hire electricians The best landscapes combine trees which determines how well it holds who go door-to-door ask- ing for work. Reputable for shading in the summer and those back heat. Look for attic insulation that serve as windbreaks in the winter. companies don’t need to with an R-value between R-38 and do that. Trees not only shade the house, R-44. • Call more than one electri- but they can reduce surrounding air Consider calling a certified con- cal contractor for estimates temperatures up to nine degrees, and tractor to install insulation properly. so you can comparison air underneath trees can be 25 degrees If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, follow shop. cooler than the area above blacktop. the directions for proper safety and • Ask the contractor for Plant deciduous trees with high, ventilation. local references or check spreading branches to the south of Consider these tips when installing with the Better Business your home. This allows for ultimate insulation: Bureau. shading in the summer, while still let- • Properly seal ceiling edges and • Ask if the electrician is part of a national or ting winter solar heat filter in. To the cracks. west, plant trees with lower crowns to regional electrical associa- • Install the insulation so it is tion. Membership doesn’t block afternoon sun. continuous and even. guarantee a quality inspec- Deciduous trees of six feet to eight • Look for the Energy Star® label tion, but associations offer feet can begin to shade the home the when purchasing insulation. educational programs. first year, though five to 10 years will The Energy Star designation You’ll find tips for preparing for pass before they’re tall enough to means the product has passed your inspection at www.electrical- shade the roof. Use shrubs, vines and rigorous government standards safety.org. groundcover plants to line walkways for energy efficiency.

ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 E n e r g y N e w s B r i e f s

Editor’s Note: The following articles contain topics about will lead the team toward best practices in demand-side news within the electric utility industry. Topics range from management programs, which are designed to encourage power plant improvements, exploration of new energy-effi- customers to modify their level and pattern of electricity ciency options, clean energy, and transportation of coal. All usage. of these topics affect your public power system and you as a “These utilities are to be commended for their commit- customer of a municipal electric system. ment to developing local, customized DSM and renewable energy programs,” said Barry Moline, executive director TVA to beef up SO2 and NOX controls at of FMEA. “They are saving time and money by working together to analyze solutions to problems that are common Sevier plant to all utilities.” The Tennessee Valley Authority plans to spend more Implementing cost-effective DSM programs has been than $350 million to install new emission controls at its shown to reduce electricity use and peak demand, the utili- 712-MW John Sevier Fossil Plant. TVA said it will add selec- ties said. These programs, coupled with renewable energy tive non-catalytic reduction systems to reduce nitrogen programs, are expected to result in energy savings of up oxide and scrubbers to reduce sulfur dioxide on the four to 14 percent. One of the group’s first initiatives is the units at the Rogersville, Tenn., plant. The new controls will development of a comprehensive database, modeled after a reduce certain emissions by as much as 95 percent, the similar instrument in California, which will allow the utili- utility said. ties to customize DSM programs geographically. With the addition of the controls at the Rogersville The committee also is exploring opportunities for more plant, all of TVA’s eastern coal-fired plants -- Bull Run, energy savings through partnerships between solar energy Kingston and John Sevier -- will have scrubbers to remove contractors and utilities. Solar water heaters, for example, sulfur dioxide and advanced nitrogen oxide controls, the can reduce demand for electricity in a cost-effective way. utility said. “The air in East Tennessee continues to improve and LADWP agrees to supply clean energy is cleaner today than it has been in the past three decades due to TVA’s continued commitment to clean air,” said for 70,000 homes TVA President and CEO Tom Kilgore. “We have reduced our emissions of sulfur dioxide across the system by 80 percent By agreeing to supply clean energy to 70,000 homes, since 1977 and nitrogen oxide emissions during the sum- the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power will assist mer ozone season by 81 percent since 1995.” the city in reaching Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s goal of in- The first new selective non-catalytic reduction system creasing Los Angeles’ renewable power supply to 20 percent is expected to be in operation this summer at Unit 1 of the by 2010. John Sevier plant during the ozone season, TVA said. The During the first year, these agreements with Powerex other three units are scheduled to have similar equipment Corp., a power marketing company owned by BC Hydro, installed by 2010. TVA said it currently has either selec- will enable LADWP to purchase 50 MW of renewable power tive non-catalytic reduction systems or selective catalytic from several of the Pacific Northwest’s small hydroelectric reduction systems on 60 percent of its coal-fired capacity. generating plants. Subsequently, clean energy acquisitions Construction of the scrubbers at John Sevier is sched- of a comparable amount will be expanded to include small uled to begin in 2008, after an environmental review has hydro, biomass, landfill gas and wind. been performed, with completion expected in 2012, TVA “The agency is utilizing power purchase agreements said. such as this as a bridge to increasing our supply of renewable energy in the short term, while pursuing plans to build renewable power generation for ownership over the Florida utilities explore new options long term,” said H. David Nahai, LADWP board president. for efficiency If authorized by the Los Angeles City Council, these contracts will take effect on April 1, 2007, with LADWP pay- Municipal utilities in Florida have teamed up to ex- ing no more than $39 million annually through 2012. The plore new options for efficiency programs that can result in Nevada-Oregon border will serve as the point of delivery for greater energy conservation and savings to customers. They the purchase and the Pacific DC Interie, a transmission line have formed a new group, the Florida Municipal Energy owned by LADWP, will ship the energy to Los Angeles. Efficiency Committee, made up of the Florida Municipal In the interim, LADWP has several wind power acquisi- Electric Association, the Florida Municipal Power Agency tions in the works, including: an approved purchase of 82 and five individual utilities: Gainesville Regional Utilities, MW of wind power throughout the next 16 years from PPM JEA in Jacksonville, Lakeland Electric, the Orlando Utilities Energy, Inc; a contract between UPC Wind, the Southern Commission, and Tallahassee. California Power Authority (acting on behalf of LADWP) They have agreed to develop consistent data and share and the cities of Burbank and Pasadena, expected to be best practices as they evaluate energy-saving programs approved in May; and, by 2009, the completion of the that are specific to Florida. GRU Utility Analyst David Pine Tree Wind project, a 120-MW facility in the Tehachapi Barclay has been named the group’s first chairman. He mountains.

ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 E n e r g y N e w s B r i e f s Green ideas growing in River Falls, the amount of power required and firm transmission rights to deliver the power to FMPA’s member cities. Wisconsin “The lack of adequate power purchase options signals River Falls Municipal Utilities in Wisconsin has signed a significant change in Florida’s wholesale power market an agreement with the University of Wisconsin – River Falls during the last 10 years,” said Fontes. “The lack of excess and power supplier Wisconsin Public Power Inc. to develop generating capacity in the market means that opportunities mutually beneficial renewable energy and energy conserva- to purchase power are simply not as plentiful or economical tion programs, projects and educational activities within as they once were.” the community of River Falls and on the UW-River Falls FMPA also considered the role of energy conservation. campus. FMPA and its member cities offer a variety of energy conser- The collaborative effort was sparked in September vation programs, but the projected need for power is too 2006, when Gov. Jim Doyle selected the UW-River Falls large to be offset by voluntary conservation alone, the joint campus as one of four University of Wisconsin schools to action agency found. participate in his “Off-the-Grid Initiative,” which sets a The new power plant is expected to feature the same goal of achieving energy independence within five years technology and design as FMPA’s Treasure Coast Energy Center Unit 1, a 300-MW natural gas power plant currently through the use of innovative energy generation methods under construction in St. Lucie County, Fla., near the city and the purchase of “green” energy provided by local utili- of Fort Pierce. A location for the new facility has not yet ties without the use of fossil fuels. been selected. The university will work with the utilities to explore a number of energy independence options, including: • purchasing energy generated by renewable resources, Senate rail bill would allow damages such as wind, biofuel and hydroelectric power; for poor service • increasing efforts to identify conservation opportu- A bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced legisla- nities and reduce overall energy consumption on tion recently designed to help increase rail freight competi- campus; and tion and prevent coal shippers and other railroad customers • developing renewable energy projects on the UWRF from being charged exorbitant rates where there is little or campus. no competition. In support of the university’s efforts, RFMU and WPPI The measure, S. 953, would direct the Surface Trans- jointly provided $20,000 for construction of an informa- portation Board to give greater consideration to rail cus- tion kiosk in the school’s new University Center, which will tomers in its decisions. It also would direct rail carriers to feature renewable energy and energy conservation informa- provide “reliable and efficient” service to rail customers and tion from the utilities. would authorize the STB to award damages to customers UW-River Falls students recently voted in favor of “due to the failure of timely delivery.” allocating a portion of student fees to fund the cost of The bill, called the Railroad Competition and Service powering the center with renewable energy purchased from Improvement Act of 2007, was introduced by Sens. Jay RFMU. The local utility is a national leader in the percent- Rockefeller, D-W.Va., Larry Craig, R-Wyo., Byron Dorgan, age of its customers who voluntarily purchase electricity D-N.D., David Vitter, R-La., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Jon generated from renewable resources, which includes wind Tester, D-Mont., Mary Landrieu, D-La., Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, power, hydro power and electricity produced from biofuels. Max Baucus, D-Mont., and Maria Cantwell, D-Wash. Five of the sponsors—Rockefeller, Dorgan, Vitter, Klobuchar and Florida agency sees need for new Cantwell—are members of the Senate Commerce, Science power plant and Transportation Committee, the panel the bill will be referred to. The Florida Municipal Power Agency has decided to “Our rail system is dominated by unregulated monopo- proceed toward building a new natural gas-fueled power lies that are able to demand unfair prices from shippers in plant to serve increasing demand for electricity in 15 Flor- North Dakota and across the country,” said Sen. Dorgan ida cities. “Additional generating capacity must be added earlier in the month. “This is especially the case in rural by 2011 to provide adequate electricity in our members’ areas, where shippers are often getting poor service and communities,” said FMPA General Manager and CEO Roger paying high prices for rail service.” He spoke March 15 at a Fontes. “Our investigations show that constructing this Washington press conference and breakfast rally organized proposed plant is the most cost-effective option.” by Consumers United for Rail Equity, a coalition of freight As part of its investigation, FMPA requested com- rail customers seeking changes in federal policy. APPA is a petitive power supply proposals but received only three member of the coalition. responses. None of the proposals were able to provide both Source: American Public Power Association (APPA).

ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 attend Jacksonville State University this fall. At LaFayette High School, he is Drum Major for the marching band, president of FBLA, a member of the National Honor Society, SADD, LHS Chorus, SGA and Dance Committee. Hasan has received numerous awards and is Choir Director/Musician of his church choir. He is also employed part-time. Stephen A. Cheek, son of the late Anthony Morris Cheek and Lisa I. West of Lanett, plans to attend the University of Alabama this fall. At Springwood School, he is team captain of the Scholars Bowl Team, writer for the school newspaper, member of the Spanish club, golf team, and Drama ighteen high school seniors Brandon Seth Michael, son of Club. will be enrolling in a four-year Donna Clemmons of Dothan, plans to Stephen has volunteered in university or two-year college attend Troy University this fall. At various community service projects to E include rebuilding houses for Katrina this fall with help from the Alabama Abbeville Christian Academy, he is Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA). Editor/Sports Editor of the school Relief during the Thanksgiving holiday AMEA has provided scholarship assis- newspaper, varsity football captain, a in 2005. tance since 1992. member of the BETA club, Drama Club, Emma E. Kennedy, daughter For 12 of those 15 years, AMEA Honor Roll and National Honor Society. of Wesley, Sr. and Cynthia Kennedy assisted deserving students in each of Brandon is very active in his com- Hatcher of Luverne, plans to attend its Member cities with their first-year munity as an Alabama Senate Page, a Auburn University this fall. At Lu- tuition to a state university. Recogniz- National Youth Leadership Delegate, verne High School, she is class Salu- ing that many high school seniors seek Boy’s State Delegate, AISA State Ora- tatorian, a member of the National training in a technical or trade pro- torical Winner, and AISA State Power Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor gram, AMEA added a second “technical lifting Winner. He is also employed Society, Health Occupation Students scholarship” in 2004. with the City of Dothan. of America, SGA, Key Club, and the To be eligible for either of AMEA’s Kylie Ann Dekin, daughter of Marching Band. scholarships, a student’s family must Molly Dekin of Fairhope, plans to at- Emma is very active in her com- receive electric service from a Mem- tend the University of Alabama this munity, and is employed with the City ber’s electric utility and the student fall. At Fairhope High School, she is a of Luverne part-time. must attend an Alabama college or member of the National Honor Soci- university. Somyr C. Stephens, daughter ety, Academic Letter Club, Web Design Applications are available from of Anthony Keith and Catherine S. Staff, FBLA, and Girl Service Club. school counselors each fall, the day Stephens of Opelika, plans to attend Kylie received the Rotary Youth following the school’s college/career the University of Alabama this fall. At Leadership Award and Thomas Hospital fair. Applications are reviewed and Opelika High School, she is a member Wellness Center’s Member of the Month selected by an independent panel of of the National Honor Society, National Award. She attends Fairhope United college guidance personnel. Honor Roll, Mu Alpha Theta, Science Methodist Church, and is employed National Society, Spanish National part-time. College Honor Society, and first runner-up Angela L. McCord, daughter of Miss Opelika High School just to name Samantha L. Haggerty, daugh- Nicole Osburn of Montrose, plans to a few. ter of Eva B. Haggerty of Alexander attend Auburn University this fall. At Somyr has received many awards City, plans to attend the University of McGill-Toolen Catholic High School, and honors. She is very active in her Alabama this fall. At Benjamin Russell she is a member of the Pride Club, Disc community as a volunteer and is em- High School, she is a member of the Golf Club, Track and Field Captain, and ployed part-time. Marching Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz HIQ Club. Whitney Elizabeth Watkins, Band, Show Choir and Key Club. Angela is active in her community daughter of Charles and Mary Watkins Samantha is an active member at and baby sits part-time. First Presbyterian Church and volun- of Piedmont, plans to attend Jack- teers at Russell Medical Center and Hasan Ismeal Green, son of sonville State University this fall. At Lake Martin Invitational. Dessiree Loyd of LaFayette, plans to Piedmont High School, he is a member

ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 of the National Honor Society, Honor Candace Elizabeth Aikens, Roll, marching/concert band, SGA, daughter of Randall and Cathy Aik- the yearbook staff, and Fellowship of ens of Lanett, plans to attend South- Cooking with Christian Students. Whitney is also ern Union State Community College class Historian. this fall. At Springwood School, she Whitney is a member of First is senior chaplain, dance team cap- Sandjanetta Baptist Youth Group in Piedmont, tain, a member of STARS and Fellow- and is employed part-time. ship of Christian Athletes. Joshua Quine Hale, son of Candace participates in various Alfreda M. Hale of Sylacauga, plans school related activities to include to attend Auburn University this Science Olympiad and Diamond Dolls. fall. At Sylacauga High School, he She volunteers in children’s ministry, is treasurer of the Student Council, Gulf Coast mission trips, and works a member of the National Honor part-time. Society, Mu Alpha Theta, drama club, Library Club, and varsity basketball Derek S. White, son of Ray and team. Lorraine White of Luverne, plans to Joshua is an usher at Mt. Zion attend Lurleen B. Wallace Community Baptist Church, a Chamber of Com- College in Opp this fall. At Luverne merce Ambassador, and president of High School, he is a member of FFA. the Kappa League. He is employed Derek is a member of Rock Hill with Sylacauga Parks and Recreation. Church of Christ, and works part- Sweet & Sour Michelle D. Hammon, daughter time. Chicken of Betty Hammon of Tuskegee plans Desmond T. Barnett, son of to attend Auburn University this Anita Barnett Torrance of Opelika, (Slow-Cooker Style) fall. At Booker T. Washington High plans to attend Southern Union School, she is a member of the Na- State Community College this fall. 1 medium onion, sliced tional Honor Society, SGA, yearbook He is a senior at Opelika High 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced staff, the Gifted Program, LIFE Savers School, and this past summer com- 1 medium celery stalk, sliced Club, and Golf Team. She is also a pleted an exploring technical course 6 boneless skinless chicken tenders, Marching Aristocrat Band Majorette. for electronics at Southern Union cut into bite-size pieces Michelle was 1st place winner 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar of the Calhoun Foods essay contest State Community College. 1/3 cup Kraft Catalina dressing and 2nd place winner of the George Desmond is very active at Mt. ¼ cup soy sauce Washington Carver Festival Essay Vernon Baptist Church, and is em- 1 can (8 oz.) pineapple chunks, Contest. She is very active in her ployed part-time. church and community. drained (save juice) Jesse E. Fortenberry, daughter 1 Tbsp. cornstarch of Doug and Patsy Fortenberry of 1 medium green pepper, sliced Technical Piedmont, plans to attend Gadsden 1 medium red pepper, sliced Wesley M. Smith, son of Wesley State Community College this fall. 4-1/2 cups hot cooked rice and Leisa Smith of Fairhope, plans to At Piedmont High School, she is on attend Southern Union Community the A/B Honor Roll, and is a member Place onions, carrots and celery in College this fall. At Fairhope High of Educational Talent Search. slow cooker, top with chicken. Add School, he is involved in various Jesse is employed part-time. combined brown sugar, dressing and activities including Captain of the Cherika N. Cook, daughter of soy sauce. Cover and cook on low baseball team. Sherryl D. Cook of Sylacauga, plans for 7 to 8 hours (or on high 3 ½ to Wesley is very active in the to attend Central Alabama Commu- 4 hours). During last 30 minutes of Church of Eastern Shore Youth de- nity College in Childersburg this fall. cooking time, cook on high. Stir corn- partment. At Sylacauga High School, she is a starch into the pineapple juice; add to Bianca D. Calloway, daughter of member of the Library Club, Skills slow cooker along with the pineapple Joann Calloway of LaFayette, plans to USA and Teen Intervention Program. and peppers. Cook 30 minutes or until attend Southern Union State Com- Cherika volunteers in her com- peppers are crisp-tender and sauce is munity College this fall. At LaFay- munity and is a Girl Scout with Troop thickened. Serve over rice. ette High School, she is a member of 223. She is an usher at New Begin- VICA, FCCLA and Skills USA. nings Ministries, and is employed Joanne Mathis Bianca is active in her commu- part-time with the Sylacauga Board Alexander City Light & Power nity, and sings in her church choir. of Education. ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 WATTS NEW IN Alexander City

WATTS NEW IN Out in the Yard Fairhope The Buzz on Carpenter Bees

cross the state, people are confronting one Fairhope’s of spring’s most annoying insects, carpenter Festival of Abees. An entomologist with the Alabama Co- WATTS NEW IN operative Extension System says the large bees tend Flight soars to hover around houses and other wooden structures Foley when searching for mates and nesting sites. into second year “Adults and children alike often worry about be- By D. Fran Morley ing stung by these bees,” says Dr. Xing Ping Hu. “But the chances of being stung are slim.” airhope’s highly successful She says the males, which are more obvious to people as they hover Festival of Flight returns for a and dart around structures, do not have stingers. second year to the H.L. “Sonny” F WATTS NEW IN “The males, which have a white spot on their face, will confront you Callahan Airport, located on Highway when you enter their territory but you can just ignore them,” explains 32 south ofSylacauga Fairhope. This year the Hu. “The females can sting but won’t usually unless handled.” event expands to two days, May 19-20, She notes that with declining populations of wild honeybees the with additional activities, entertain- carpenter bee, which is one of the largest bees, is becoming an impor- ment, and aircraft displays for all ages tant pollinator. to enjoy. “If you walk through a home garden or even some row crop fields, This year’s festival will include you will find them foraging — gathering nectar and pollen and in the aerobatic acts, including local favorite Phillip Grice and the nationally known process pollinating the flowers,” says Hu. WATTS NEW IN She says for most people the bigger problem with carpenter bees is Greg Koontz Air shows, with two perfor- that the females bore tunnels into wood. mances each day.Opelika The popular Red Star “Carpenter bees find bare, unpainted or weathered softwood very Yak Formation Flying Team returns this year along with static military aircraft attractive,” Hu says. “Females, which are boring or hanging around displays, and much more. Introductory looking for a place to bore, and the eggs and larvae in those holes, are “Young Eagle” flights for youth and harder to kill. You must treat the nest with a longer lasting insecticide.” “Bird of Paradise” biplane rides will also Common methods are injecting an insecticide into the tunnels or be available again this year. puffing dust insecticides into holes. Using an applicator like a hand “In addition to being a fun event duster can help ensure the products gets deeper into the tunnel. for the public,WA the TTFestivalS NEW of Flight IN Hu says after using either method, seal the tunnels using caulk or serves to showcase the city, the air- cork. port, and itsPiedmont services to businesses who “Sealing their mines without pesticides can help, but isn’t perma- might be considering locating here,” nent,” she says. said Colton Coile, festival chairman. The most important reminder Hu has for homeowners is that carpenter Last year’s event attracted pilots and bee control can be done at any time of year. aircraft ownersWA fromTTS a 300-mileNEW IN radius. “Do not wait until the bees start hovering around in spring. Try to The Festival of Flight is free and get ahead of the game.” open to allT ages.uskegee Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 She adds that newly applied latex paint does not seem to slow them p.m. each day. For more information, down. call (251)929-1466. “They may also bore through varnish, stain and just about any type of wood. However, spraying pyrethriod-type insecticides (1 ounce per gallon) works well on wood surfaces (1 gallon per 500 to 1000 square feet). This is effective for treating cedar homes and log cabins.” She encourages home owners with a serious infestation to contact a professional pesticide company. They have tools that hold more of the dust insecticide and can reach a longer distance. For more information on carpenter bees, visit the Extension Web site at www.aces.edu and do a search for carpenter bees. You can also visit your county Extension office.

10 ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 WATTS NEW IN Alexander City

WATTS NEW IN Fairhope

WATTS NEW IN Foley Riviera Utilities delivers reliable, hometown electric service by David Horton WATTS NEW IN ow could any of us get through a single day fourth graders were taught to be stewards of our water without the constant use of electricity?Sylacauga It keeps resources and to protect its inhabitants. The students H us safe, healthy, and comfortable. It powers our had hands-on experiences to learn more about water homes and businesses, and connects us to our friends and aquifers, erosion, filterization and protecting water family, and the world at large. reservoirs. Riviera Utilities and the Wolf Bay Watershed Electricity is ever-present in this country, and its sup- Watch sponsored a youth fishing tournament and over ply is so reliable that we take it for granted. But it is so 150 young people competed for trophies. The kids were essential to our daily lives that it is important to under- given information to help them understand our way of stand some electricity basics in relation to our community.WATTS NEWlife andIN become stewards of our waterways and tributar- Let me tell you about Riviera Utilities and the reliable ies. We are very proud of the work we do with other electricity that powers our community. First of all,Opelika Riviera organizations for our youth. Utilities is what is called a “public power” electric utility. Riviera Utilities’ power is produced by the Alabama That means we operate the utility as a business. It was Municipal Electric Authority (AMEA), an organization created in 1916 to provide very special advantages to the whose principal purpose is to secure reliable and economi- local community. cal electric capacity and energy for its members. AMEA Today, one of the biggest advantages for Riviera monitors the short-term and long-term marketplace to Utilities is the not-for-profit electric rates that hold down meet that goal. As you know, fuel costs have increased, household and business costs. Without the not-for-profitWATTS NEWbut INwe are doing everything we can to hold them down. status, we could end up paying rates as high as they are Finally, with the other 2,000 public power systems in in California, New York, or Pennsylvania. We arePiedmont proud to the United States, we work through the American Public be a public power utility. Power Association on national policies that will help to Another advantage is the local, hometown service. hold down prices, increase energy independence and secu- Our mission is to be of service, and when you call us, rity, protect the environment, and find long-term solu- you are working with your friends and neighbors,WA andTT weS NEWtions IN to make energy more efficient. respond immediately. Whether you are experiencing prob- We are your hometown electric utility that is working lems with electric, water, cable, or gas, RivieraT Utilitiesuskegee hard to make sure we effectively and efficiently provide service is second to none in my opinion. you with the best rates possible. Do your part and con- Riviera Utilities is also committed to the community. serve energy when possible. Riviera Utilities…..serving In the last year, we raised funds for United Way, American South Baldwin County since 1916. Cancer Society’s Re- lay for Life, American Heart Association, Habitat For Human- ity, Ecumenical Ministries, to help others. We believe in maintaining the quality of life we have here in Baldwin County. Riviera Utilities was a sponsor for the South Annual Bald- win County Water Festival, where over 900 Baldwin County Shown are the students and teachers from Fairhope High School that assisted fourth grade students at the 2007 Baldwin County Water Festival.

ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 11 WATTS NEW IN Alexander City

WATTS NEW IN Fairhope

WATTS NEW IN Foley

WATTS NEW IN Sylacauga The Biggest Birthday Bash Ever Blue Bell Creameries celebrates 100 years of making ice cream

lue Bell Creameries, makers of the third chance to name their very own Blue Bell Ice best-selling ice cream in the U.S., known WATTS NEW INCream flavor. The “Taste of the Country” con- Bto ice cream lovers as the place where test invited fans to create an original name for “they eat all they can and sell the rest,” is cel- Opelikaan ice cream flavor that represents the state in ebrating the company’s 100th birthday this year, which they live. A winner was chosen in each and Sylacauga residents got to be some of the state where Blue Bell Ice Cream is sold. The first party goers of the season. grand-prize winner, chosen from the 16 state Sylacauga residents celebrated Blue Bell’s winners, will be an honored guest at Blue Bell 100th birthday April 14 and 15, as well as the headquarters in Brenham where a sampling of his 10th anniversary of the Sylacauga plant in “The or her proposed flavor, prepared in Blue Bell test Marble City” with special activities for every age. kitchens, will be served. The winning flavor will On April 14, spectators and visitors were WATTS NEW IN be produced in half gallons and sold to the public treated to a tour of the Sylacauga plant to see employees in 2007 or 2008. making the world-famous ice cream. Events includedPiedmont self- On July 19-21, 2007, the public is invited to attend a guided tours, musical entertainment, a car show, and kids huge birthday celebration, “A Day in the Country,” hosted area. by Blue Bell at the Washington County Fairgrounds in A highlight of the celebration was the ‘100 Years Tour’ Brenham, Texas. The party will feature interactive games as it passed through Sylacauga on its journey to 66 dif- and exhibits for fans of all ages. ferent Blue Bell market areas. All activities wereWA freeTT toS NEW INDuring the summer of 2007, Blue Bell will also unveil the public and any monies raised over the course of the two new bronze sculptures at Brenham headquarters — a weekend were donated to three local charities.T uskegeeAnd as the life-size version of the famous cow and girl logo, and a ‘100 Years Tour’ travels across the country, any money from statue representing E. F. Kruse, who managed Blue Bell merchandise sales will be donated to that city’s local Boys from 1919 to 1951, and his two sons Ed and Howard, who and Girls Club. helped Blue Bell grow to the size it is today. “This celebration was Blue Bell’s way of giving back Blue Bell will produce two special ice cream flavors to the community and the customers who have graciously in commemorative cartons during the anniversary year. gotten us to the landmark of 100 years,” said Mindy S. Blue Bell fans will also be able to purchase Blue Bell Ice Grier, Administrative Manager, Blue Bell Creameries, Inc., Cream: a Century at the Little Creamery in Brenham, Sylacauga Texas, 1907-2007, a coffee-table book that tells the tale “Proceeds from our weekend benefited the Sylacauga of Blue Bell’s 100-year history. A centennial cookbook Boys’ Club,” Grier said. “We partnered with the ARC of containing over 1000 recipes compiled by employees will South Talladega County to provide food sales and a portion be sold in the Country Store in Brenham and online. of the proceeds will benefit them. Our Antique Car, Truck “We realize,” explains Blue Bell President and CEO and Motorcycle Show on Saturday benefited Blue Bell’s Paul Kruse, “that for an American company American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life team. to celebrate 100 years in business is a Grier said another feature of the celebration was the remarkable accomplishment which mobile cow milking demonstrations by the Alabama Dairy could not be achieved with- Farmers. out the support of mil- Nationwide, birthday festivities will last all year long lions of Blue Bell and everyone is invited. Activities planned for the year fans over will include a traveling exhibit, a flavor-naming contest, the special anniversary ice cream flavors and, to top it all off, a gigantic birthday party in July in Brenham, Texas, home of Blue Bell for the past 100 years. In January, Blue Bell kicked off the year with a “roll- ing birthday party,” an 18-wheeler full of Blue Bell information and memorabilia. The traveling Blue Bell caravan includes a mobile “country store” stocked with anniversary merchandise, and an inflatable Homemade Vanilla carton bounce house for kids to enjoy. The multi-vehicle ice cream odyssey will make stops in 66 cities across the company’s 16-state market area. Also from January 1 to April 30, consumers had a

12 ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 years. We decided our focus during this exciting WATTS NEW IN year should be finding ways of saying ‘thank you’ to all the folks who have made this birthday possible.” Alexander City Blue Bell Creameries began in Brenham, Texas, in 1907, as a butter creamery where local farmers could A little piece of Italy bring excess milk and cream to town to be made into butter. In 1911, the company started producing ice comes to Alexander City cream at the rate of two gallons a day, made in a little piece of Italy is now hand-cranked wooden freezer. In 1930, the name of in AlexanderWA TTCity.S ThreeNEW IN the company was changed from The Brenham Cream- Renaissance paintings ery to Blue Bell, in honor of a local wildflower that A have come Fairhopefull circle to their blooms during the hot summer months. permanent home at the Adelia For more information on 100th anniversary M. Russell Library in Alexander events throughout 2007, Blue Bell fans should log on City. to www.bluebell.com. The three paintings, Ma- donna and Child, Madonna and Child in Landscape, and Diana Sylacauga Utilities Board (SUB) the Huntress with a Nymph, are receives a “healthy” review now beautifully displayedWA inTT theS NEW IN Russell Library after circling the by Deborah Rogers globe for the past nineF years,oley according to Librarian Judy Tidwell. In 1964, at the completion of the library, the Kress Foundation deeded the three paintings to the City of Alex- ander City. Sim Wilbanks, a local attorney, was responsible for the library’s acquisition as Kress was a client of his, and at his request, the paintings were presented to the Alexan- der City Library. WATTS NEW IN On Feb. 19, 1998, the Sylacaugapaintings were sent to Bir- mingham for evaluation and condition survey. As a result of this, the Kress Foundation UB received a good review for the Organizational proposed that the paint- Health Check early this year. This program was ings be sent to New York for Ssponsored by AMEA and conducted by Hometown conservation treatment and Connections International, LLC (HCI). The purpose of restoration. The paintings this program was to review all areas of electric opera- WATTSfinally NEW made IN it back to their tions and identify areas that are working well, as well Alexander City home on Feb. as areas needing improvement. Opelika16, 2007. The review looked at common areas of operating an “We are so happy to have electric utility, including: customer service, governance, these beautiful pieces of rates, safety, technology, and distribution operations. art gracing the walls of our The following are some excerpts from the report: library,” Tidwell said. “They serve as an inspiration to all “Overall, SUB is a very well run utility. HCI was who enter our doors.” impressed with SUB’s commitment to customers, running the utility as a business and adding value to the City of Sylacauga and the surrounding area.” WATTS NEW IN “Approximately 68 percent of a typical customer bill was used to pay for electric supply costs for 2006, Piedmont $10.8 million of the $16 million forecasted total rev- enues for the board.” HCI was impressed with SUB’s efforts toward local economic development. SUB contributes $64,000 annually to the county authority and participates on WATTS NEW IN the Sylacauga Industrial Development Board. Some of the recommendations that were made were to offer Tuskegee customers online bill-paying and to continue customer satisfaction surveys. The Board and management will TO REPORT POWER OUTAGE continue to review the recommendations that were Day Time(256) 409-2080 made by HCI and see if improvements can be achieved After Hours/Holidays – Call Police Dept. (256) 234-3421 from implementation. DO NOT CALL 911

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WATTS NEW IN Fairhope

WATTS NEW IN Foley

WATTS NEW IN Sylacauga

WATTS NEW IN Opelika An “ode” to those squirrelly little rodents By Jan H. Gunter, Community Relations Specialist – City of Opelika, Alabama

hey look cute from a dis- substation breaker to trip, causing tance, with their bushy tails WATTS NEW IN your lights to blink, or causing the and tiny paws in a constant substation breaker to operate and Tflutter of activity. And in fact, they Piedmont then blow a fuse. When that hap- are often popular “sympathetic” pens, you lose your power! characters in cartoons and children’s Another peculiar way squirrels books. However, the truth about cause outages is directly related to these seemingly “charming” little the “nature” of the animal – namely rodents is that they wreak havoc on WATTS NEW IN their teeth. Being rodents, squirrels just about every community in all must continually chew and gnaw be- 50 of the United States by caus- Tuskegee cause their teeth never stop growing. ing power outages regardless of the If they didn’t perform this task their weather around them! teeth would soon be too long to use “What???” you say, “Squirrels can cause power out- for eating. Thus, they tend to chew on various objects, ages? I don’t believe it!” both edible and not. One of the things they seem to enjoy “Customers are sometimes reluctant to believe us when gnawing on are power lines. With their sharp teeth, they we tell them that a squirrel caused an outage,” states can eventually chew right through the bare aluminum neu- Opelika Light & Power Director Jerry Posey, “Some people tral or the outer covering of secondary conductors exposing think we are just using that as an excuse.” themselves to “live currents”, and once again, becoming a The truth is, though, squirrels are the number one conduit for electricity, get electrocuted. Not only is this a cause of power outages when you exclude storms; and bad situation for the squirrel (since they die), it’s also not while the outages are usually (but not always) smaller than good for the rest of us, as the power surges caused from ones caused by the weather, they are still costly, not only this “break” in a neutral conductor can cause damage to because utilities have to repair the damage to transformers 120-volt appliances. or capacitors knocked out by these pesky little varmints, Of course, squirrels aren’t the only culprits in power but also because of the money that is spent on gadgets and outages outside of the weather. Birds and snakes have also special coverings, trying to prevent the damage from hap- been known to get into electrical equipment and wreak pening in the first place! havoc on electrical systems, causing surges or full blown How do squirrels cause power failure? There are two outages as well. basic “squirrel activities” at play here that cause it: their “Most of the time we know when a squirrel or other constant search for food and their continuous need to animal has caused the power outage,” states Posey, “be- grind down their teeth. cause the squirrel, bird or snake is found lying on the top Squirrels are constantly on the lookout for “more of transformers or, at the very least, somewhere in very food.” Springtime seems to be the “worst time” for them, close proximity to the system.” since the “new crop” of their favorite food (acorns) hasn’t So the crux of the story is this: if it is sunny out- developed yet, and the old crop (buried the previous year) side, with no storms in sight and your power “flickers” has begun to sprout into new trees. If a squirrel can’t find off and on, or goes out all together, you can bet that, a good acorn (or two) to nibble on, they’ll go for what- more than likely, some hapless squirrel (or bird or snake) ever is available: seeds, sprouts, and buds on trees in the “somewhere” along the route between your power lines spring. To that end, the persistent little “tree rats” will and a transformer, has paid the “ultimate price” for being scamper almost anywhere in search of food; bird feed- where he shouldn’t be! When that happens, please call ers, flower beds, attics and basements – and across power the power company and let them know you’re without lines to get to the buds of trees higher up. Now a squirrel power, and then have patience, because the “repair” may doesn’t cause an outage by merely running across power take more than merely flipping the breaker or refusing a lines; it’s when their body makes contact with both the switch, depending on how much damage was done to the wires and the ground or a transformer that they become system. And while you’re at it, be glad you’re not a squir- a conduit for electricity (which most likely happens when rel who doesn’t know the difference between a tree branch they stand on the top of the transformer and “reach up” and a power line until it’s too late! Be glad for this, too: to the primary wire). Unfortunately, when they “complete when your power goes out, your power company IS doing the circuit” for electricity they are electrocuted, and create everything they can to restore your electricity to you just a short circuit in the system, which will then cause the as quickly as they can.

14 ALABAMA CURRENTS MAY / JUNE 2007 Places to Go and Things to Do

Alexander City Dothan May 1-31, Second Annual Spring Car Show, Lake Martin. May 1-5, Wiregrass Festival of Murals, A Celebration of Multiple classes. Please contact event manager Randy the Arts. The City of Dothan, the Downtown Group, the Jinks, (334) 353-4125 for specific date and time. Dothan Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, numerous May 14-23, Adelia M. Russell Library. Registration for Sum- community organizations, businesses and volunteers bring mer Reading Program with weekly activities scheduled this week-long celebration to downtown Dothan. Events through July 25. May 23, Annual Summer Reading include youth activities, gospel singing, jazz concert, 5K Program kicks off with a party at Mamie’s Place Children’s Run, arts and crafts festival, public safety demonstrations, Library, 3:30 p.m. A page out of history comes alive as horse and buggy rides, musical mural tours, and much, special guests Cowboy Bruce and Vein entertain with their much more. For ticketed events at the Civic Center and Wild West performance of trick roping and bull whipping. Opera House, contact the Box Office at (334) 615-3175. June 6, 11 a.m., Ron Miller will speak about his bicycle For a complete schedule of events for the week, log on to collection, which will be on display for the day. Mr. Miller www/dothan.org. has one bicycle that is a Smithsonian classic. His theme is for the preservation of classic bicycles. For more informa- Opelika tion, call (256) 234-4644 or (256) 329-6796. May 19, East Alabama Old Car Club 33rd Annual Show, at May 18 and 19, the Grand Weekend, Second Annual Cham- the USA Town Center (formerly USA Factory Stores), 1220 ber Event at Five Star Plantation, Kellyton. Unique Fox Run Parkway, Opelika (I-85 at Exit 62), starting at 8 opportunity to participate in classic events. Call (256) a.m. Trophies in several classes will be awarded at 3:30 234-3461 for qualifier dates, additional venues and gen- p.m. For more information, contact Show Chairman Buddy eral information. Graves at (334) 826-9826. May 18 and 19, Second Annual Art Crawl. Crawl your way through a fun-filled weekend of art and artistry. For more Piedmont information, call High Cotton Antique Market, (256) 212- 9454, or Mac David and Co., (256) 234-4545. May 6, 15th Annual Cheaha Challenge Century Ride. The May 18 and 19, Wind Creek State Park Fishing Tourna- rider has the option to ride 26, 44, 66, 88, or the full ments, American Bass Anglers. May 26, Mayer Electric. 102 miles. The Cheaha Challenge was selected as a Top 10 June 23, Fishing with Jim Austin Bubby Trail. For more Event in the State of Alabama in 2006 as selected by the information, call (256) 329-0845. Alabama Bureau of Tourism & Travel. For more information May 18, 1 p.m., Laura Grimes will be at the Adelia M. visit www.neabc.org or www.cheahachallenge.com. Russell Library in Alexander City to present a program June 30, Piedmont’s Annual ‘A Tribute to Freedom Celebra- on Brass Rubbings. For those interested in Medieval his- tion’. The activities will begin at 10 a.m., at the Clyde tory, this is a great way to learn about Medieval times by H. Pike Civic Center. Activities will include moon walks, studying the monumental brasses that were engraved with bucket truck rides, entertainment by Three on a String likenesses of Medieval folk, set in stone slabs, and placed and other local bands, and many more activities. There in churches and cathedrals throughout England and Eu- will also be free food and activities for the whole family to rope as memorials as early as the 13th century. A popular enjoy. For more information, contact Keith Word at (256) pastime called “Brass Rubbing” is still popular today as a 447-6734, or Ben Singleton at (256) 447-3582. major tourist attraction in England. Mrs. Grimes will also have some of her works on display. Sylacauga May 26-June 2, Alexander City Kiwanis Club 11th Annual May 10, Sylacauga Chamber Coffee, 10 a.m. Hosted by Heri- Spring Fling, Charles E. Bailey Sr. Sport-Plex. Benefiting tage South Federal Credit Union at 60 Gene Stewart Blvd. local children’s charities. Entertainment for the whole May 12, Sylacauga Fishing Derby, 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. at family. For more information, call (256A) 329-9227. Lake Howard. May 26-June 16, Alexander City Horse Riding Club, EAHA May 12, Sylacauga Health Fair, at the J. Craig Smith Com- Fundraiser. (June 2, Alex City Club). Charles E. Bailey munity Center. Sr. Sport-Plex. For more information, call Jimmy Avery at The Comer Museum in Sylacauga will display artwork cre- (256) 234-2925. ated by Talladega County students during the month May 28-Labor Day, Electric Pottery Summer Art Show. of May. Located on Highway 63. Handmade pottery, oil paintings Congressman Rogers’ Student Art Competition will be and water colors on display (Thursday through Sunday). displayed. The Comer Museum in Sylacauga will display For more information, call (334) 857-3545. artwork entered for Congressional District 3 of Alabama. May 28 and June 4, Charles E. Bailey Sr. Sport-Plex. Join The winner will have his/her art displayed at the capital. the ACPR Senior Program. On-going programs include sum- A scholarship to Savannah College of Art & Design will mer aquatics, bowling, dance nights, quilting, fitness class- also be awarded. es and day trips. For more information, call Corley Holt at June 23, Chalaka Arts & Crafts Show, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., at (256) 329-2910. May 28, Summer Day Camp starts. June the J. Craig Smith Community Center, Sylacauga. 4, Red Cross swimming lessons start. For more informa- The paintings of local Sylacauga artist will be displayed at tion, call Jennifer at (256) 329-6736, Ext. 27. the Comer Museum during the month of June.

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WATTS NEW IN Alexander City

WATTS NEW IN Fairhope

WATTS NEW IN Foley

WATTS NEW IN Sylacauga

WATTS NEW IN Opelika

WATTS NEW IN Piedmont

WATTS NEW IN

Tuskegee PAID Presort Std Presort US Postage US Permit No. 2 75 No. Permit Montgomery, AL Montgomery, George Washington Carver Arts and Crafts Festival by Alicia Crenshaw

he George Washington Carv- liberal arts college, did not offer er Arts and Crafts Festival classes in the sciences, so Carver T (GWCAC) is an annual event transferred to Iowa Agricultural held in Tuskegee on the City Square College (now Iowa State University) and North Main Street. The GWCAC in 1891, where he earned a Bachelor is an event commemorating the of Science degree and later a Master life and works of Dr. George of Science degree in bacterial Washington Carver. Fes- botany and agriculture. tivities are family and In 1897, Carver came community-oriented, to the South (upon the showcasing arts insistence of Booker and crafts from T. Washington, vendors across the founder of Tuskegee southeast. There University) to serve will be a variety as the Director of entertainment- of Agriculture at - rides, exhibits, Tuskegee Universi- talent displays, ty. It was here that and door prizes. Carver developed This year’s festival his crop rotation will be held on Sat- method, revolutioniz- urday, May 12, 2007. ing southern agriculture. This is an occasion you He also invented hundreds do not want to miss! of products using peanuts and George Washington Carver (c. sweet potatoes. Carver’s other ac- 1864 – January 5, 1943) was born complishments include: mentoring near Diamond Grove, Missouri on children, poetry, painting, race rela- the farm of Moses Carver. As an tions, and humanitarianism. Despite infant, George and his mother obstacles in his early childhood and were kidnapped by the Confeder- racism, Carver became one of the ate night-raiders. Moses Carver most notable scientists and inventors reclaimed George (George’s mother in history. was never found) and brought him “He could have added fortune back to the farm where he was to fame, but caring for neither, he reared by Moses and his wife as one found happiness and honor in being of their own children. It was on helpful to the world.” – Epitaph on this farm that he first fell in love the grave of George Washington with nature and earned his nick- Carver. name “The Plant Doctor.” Carver’s For more information on the love for nature continued to grow George Washington Carver Arts and and he moved to Newton County Crafts Festival, contact the Tuske- in southwest Missouri to pursue gee Area Chamber of Commerce his elementary education. Later he at (334)724-6619 or visit www. moved to Kansas where he attended carverfest.org. While in Tuskegee, Minneapolis High School. visit the George Washington Carver

At 30, Carver was admitted to Museum, located on Tuskegee Street 804 South Perry

Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa University Campus. For information 3 6104 Alabama Montgomery, where he became the first African- and directions contact (334)727- American student. Simpson, a 3200, or visit www.tuskegee.edu. Alabama Municipal Electric Authority