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Custom coverage from the waterline to the bottom line. The yacht and boat specialists at Jack Martin & Associates are boaters themselves, with decades of collective experience in the marine insurance industry. A professional marine agent, who will help you understand all of the aspects that make your account unique and assist you in choosing the coverage that is right for you, is a necessity you do not want to be without in today’s changing marketplace. To learn more, contact Jon Horton at Jack Martin & Associates at 1-800-497-5804 or www.jackmartin.com.
Proudly offering coverage through:
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Features
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Rocky Top to Bimini University of Tennessee Sailing Team member, Ben Murphy, takes us to the Bahamas for the holidays.
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6 Stress-Free Holiday Destinations On the water, these getaways could be just what you need for relaxed holiday spirit.
D ock & Dine New Year’s Eve Coastal, calm or rowdy, cruise into one of these New Year’s Eve destinations.
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com |
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holiday 2013 40
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Departments
In Every Issue
18 | Above Board Gift ideas for the water-lover in your life 20 | lifeonthewater.com News, events, stories exclusively online 21 | Q &A Watches and Water Fred Myers explains the do’s and don’ts of buying a watch when you’re on the water. 40 | Food Dressing...or stuffing in the Deep South 50 | Contests Who won the SEC football tickets? Enter the 2014 Photo Contest
12 | Take Me to the River from Assistant Editor Chris Welch 16 | Voices Your letters, posts and tweets 32 | Map …MORE holiday events on the water 45 | Scrapbook SPECIAL EVENT Scottsboro, Alabama was the perfect setting to have “Conversations on a Riverboat” 51 | Ship’s Store Services to make life on the water better 54 | Marketplace For sale on the water 61 | Resource Directory The companies that support Life on the Water… on the lakes, rivers and coastlines of the South 62 | Living Water reflection from publisher Christy Martin
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Visit one of these SMALL TOWNS in the South, voted BEST ON THE WATER 2013.
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J E F F E R S O N
C O U N T Y ,
T E N N E S S E E
COME EXPERIENCE t
LAKESIDE OF THE SMOKIES
• • • • • •
World class fishing (host to the B.A.S.S. Elite) Guided fishing trips Watersports (kayaking & skiing) Pontoon, jet ski and boat rentals RVing Private Cabins and Luxurious Inns along 513 miles of shoreline • Lakeside dining • Stunning views of Cherokee and Douglas Lakes
NESTLED IN THE FOOTHILLS
GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS FOR MORE INFORMATION:
VacationJeffersonCounty.com holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 11 1-877-237-3847
take me to the river
What do Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve have in common? Everything the holidays have to offer is always better on the water. Our lakes, rivers and coastlines have a different look and feel this time of year. Our map on pages 32 and 33 highlights 12 unique Christmas and New Year’s events to make wonderful holiday memories. But maybe you’d rather have someone else do the cooking and cleaning this year. Adam DeMairoibus found six stress-free places to celebrate the holidays on the water. In our Dock & Dine department, Adam highlights some places you can cruise in, tie up the boat and ring in the New Year for 2014. Destin, Florida or Rogersville, Alabama…either way, your new year will be off to a great start. Dressing or stuffing? It’s a staple item on every Southern table for the holidays. Every cook has their own opinion about what they call it. Try our recipes for a real Southern experience on both. The perfect Christmas gift for the water-lover in your life can be hard to find. But not with our gift guide. Check out Above Board on pages 18 and 19. One of those popular gifts for water-lovers is a watch. But which watch for the water? Fred Myers has travelled thousands of miles by boat. And he’s a watch connoisseur. So we posed this question to him…and learned that waterproof doesn’t always mean what you think. Still can’t decide? Browse our online store at lifeonthewater.com. You’ll even see reviews from our readers. To sail for the University of Tennessee Sailing Team, Ben Murphy experiences the thrill of competition. But to sail the Caribbean…that’s life on the water. His story “Rocky Top to Bimini” beginning on page 24 will take you to warmer waters this holiday season. We’ll have an all new look in 2014. We hope you like it…and look forward to hearing from you. From all of us at Life on the Water, thank you for the wonderful seven years we’ve been publishing. And we wish you the happiest of holidays and a blessed 2014.
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A L A B A M A M O U N TA I N L A K E S T O U R I S T A S S O C I AT I O N
text
TM
‘Lets Go’ to 44848
for weekly events & updates
Bear Creek H. Neely Henry Guntersville Lewis Smith Pickwick Weiss Wheeler Wilson
8 Great Lakes of North Alabama. 400 Amazing Things to Do. Snow skiing, waterfalls, white tigers, Civil War battles, sport fishing and tranquil cruises. A few of the unexpected surprises you will find just off your dock in North Alabama.
Call or visit our website for a FREE brochure 800.648.5381 / www.NorthAlabama.org holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 13
holiday 2013 contributors Southern ways. Sunshine days. Water is the canvas on which we Southerners paint our lives. Life on the Water explores and introduces with a blend of people, lakes, rivers, towns, food, history and culture. It’s life in the South…on the water.
publisher/editor | Christy Martin christy@lifeonthewater.com assistant editor | Chris Welch editor@lifeonthewater.com
designer | Cindy Young
art@lifeonthewater.com
sales | Nicki Dryer 256-777-4108 Denice Kirby 256-777-1900 business | Mary Catherine Lee operations marycatherine@lifeonthewater.com
As a water-lover Adam DeMaioribus and his wife Tina share a love of the outdoors, especially wildlife, and all of God’s creations. You can find them alfresco, camping, floating down the river, or just relaxing outside together. He reveals destinations to visit on the water for the holidays and with extensive experience in the restaurant industry, Adam explores the roots of the Southern staple dressing…or stuffing? That’s on page 40. A native of Nashville, Tennessee, Ben Murphy studies Logistics at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and is Vice President of the UT Sailing Club. This past summer, Murphy taught small boat sailing at Florida Sea Base, a Boy Scout high adventure experience in the Florida Keys and was a mate on a 78’ schooner out of Key West. He plans to continue his work on the open ocean, go to captain’s school and end up somewhere, anywhere on the water.
For many years, Fred Myers’ several watches have served him well on the water -- swimming in Hawaii, snorkeling in the Caribbean and piloting his boat on southeastern rivers and the Gulf Coast. He has a watch to fit each mood as well as each need. “And yes,” he says, “whether Rolex or Timex, I use and enjoy them all.” Author, photographer, adventurer . . .and our editorial consultant, Fred dives into the subject of how best to mix watches with water on page 21.
consultant | Fred Myers contributing | Nichole Alred photographers Bobby Martin
Robin Conn Jessica Arnold Steve Babin
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Now available at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Books-A-Million stores, Hastings and other selected independent bookstores in the South. Visit lifeonthewater.com/distribution for a retailer near you. To become a distributor, call 256-882-1972 or contact Mary Catherine at marycatherine@lifeonthewater.com.
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on the cover This Lake Lanier, Georgia home is the perfect setting to celebrate the holidays... on the water.
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All rights reserved. All advertisements and documents provided by LIFE ON THE WATER Magazine and Website and DAYMARKER ENTERPRISES, LLC (publisher) are solely owned and used by LIFE ON THE WATER Magazine and Website and DAYMARKER ENTERPRISES, LLC. Publisher may use any advertisement published in the Publication for its own promotion purposes in any media. Publisher shall remain sole owner of all art, designer and photographic work produced. Reproductions or use without written permission in any manner is strictly prohibited. The information in this magazine in not intended to replace authorized maps or information from official charts, maps, guides or educational sources. ©2013
W h ee l e r L a k e , T enne s s ee R i v e r
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voices Happy on the Water Not sure my husband is glad we’re subscribed because now all I want to do is live on a boat and run up and down the Tennessee River! Lol! Love the magazine, thanks! Laura Morse - Auburn, Alabama
The Bucket List Trip Follow Betty Blackwell’s ‘Bucket List River Trip’ at our Facebook page. She’s travelling the full length of the Tennessee River in her houseboat The Dog House from Cedar Creek Yacht Club in Nashville, Tennessee. Here’s an excerpt from her journal: 9/20/13 This morning we headed on up the Tennessee to the last navigable inch of this river where the Holston and the French Broad Rivers meet. 9/22/13 Thanks everybody for all the many nice comments about this River trip. It has been totally incredible. Stellar weather conditions, until just yesterday. The Dog House has travelled a total of 941.4 miles since we left Cedar Creek Yacht Club. From September 22nd to October 11th We’re on hold until Capt. Jimmy returns here at Ft. Loudon Marina. Then we’ll start home with the turning fall leaves. Join us on the return trip! Betty Blackwell - Nashville, Tennessee The Dog House
Locking Through video helps a boater! Thank you for posting this, about to go through the locks for the first time soon. Three in all along the Tennessee River for our trip. John Wilson- Lake Barkley, Kentucky
My magazine is MIA.
Hi Christy, I’m not sure who to direct this email to so I’ll start at the the top of the list. We received the cover of our Fall 2013 magazine in the mail but that was ALL we received! Just the cover. Very disappointing. We wanted to read the “Top Ten Small Towns In The South” since we have a house near one of them, Clifton, Tennessee. But anyway, the pages of the magazine must have become separated from the cover somehow. Would it be possible for you to have another copy sent to us? Thank you very much and we really enjoy your magazine! William and Deb Springsteen - Browns Valley, California If you ever have a problem receiving your magazine, call or email us. We’ll make it right.
What’s on your mind? Submit a letter, email…facebook post or tweet that we use in VOICES and we’ll send you a SOUTHERN WAYS SUNSHINE DAYS cap. editor@lifeonthewater.com 16 | lifeonthewater.com | holiday 2013
W H E E L E R LAK E - T E N N E SS E E RIV E R
S M I T H LAK E , ALA B A M A
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above board
Gifts we like for water-lovers that are just a cut above the rest. *Free SHIPPING on online orders over $25, lifeonthewater.com/shop
Abalone “Dragonfly” Sterling Silver Earrings Island Silversmith
This Southern symbol of good luck is the perfect gift when you want someone to know they’re special.
$24.95 • lifeonthewater.com/shop*
Uniden VHF Waterproof Two-Way Marine Radio (MHS75) From Uniden
Features a floating design, and submersible for up to 30 minutes at five feet.
$85.98 • lifeonthewater.com/shop*
YOLO stand up paddleboard
Easy for anyone, no matter the age or skill level… you only live once.
starting at $885 • smithlakepaddleboard.com
The MOM 600
A tossable throw cushion that inflates to a 10 square foot rescue platform when it hits the water due to its water-activated inflator. Complete with a strobe light, safety knife, sea anchor, and optional 5-foot yellow pylon.
$999 • switlik.com
Mama Wilson’s
White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
This delicious shortbread cookie combines tart cranberries with white chocolate making it beautiful to look at for Christmas…and even better to eat!
$18 • mamawilsons.com
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above board
LAKE HOUSE words to live by by My Word
The perfect gift for the lake-lover, this pretty much sums it up.
$31.99 lifeonthewater.com/shop*
Shatterproof Wine Glasses by Govino
Made from food-safe polymer, these glasses are perfect for boaters and waterfront lovers. Recyclable. Set of 4.
$12.95 • lifeonthewater.com/shop*
The Stump Stool
Made from reclaimed teak wood is a unique design that will not wear. Indoor or outdoor, 13 x 13 x 24”
$379.99 lifeonthewater.com/shop*
Josie Wachi jeans Our friend and designer from Huntsville, Alabama has created jeans for anybody…and any body.
$67 • josiewachi.com
Whiskey Sea Stones
Smooth, solid granite whiskey stones from the beaches of New Hampshire - the Granite State perfectly chills fine spirits to their ideal drinking temperature (about 59° F) and most importantly, without adding unwanted taste or diluting the drink. Set of 6 Chillers in a hardwood tray.
$29.50 • newenglandtradingcompany.com
Splash of Bourbon Kentucky’s Spirit Cookbook
That liquid magic that flows so smoothly is actually the secret ingredient to all things Kentucky. A-maz-ing recipes and stories.
$26.96 • lifeonthewater.com/shop* holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 19
lif e o nth e wat e r . c o m Reader Spotlight Do you know a water-lover who deserves recognition? Let us know. We’d like to feature them at Life on the Water. People:
Gary Venice Spring City, Tennessee He is one of the founders of the Watts Bar Lakefest that happens annually on Labor Day weekend. This annual golf tournament and poker run has grown to over 100 participants and boats, attracting folks from across the South. They come to enjoy more than 8 marinas, live band, fabulous food...all for a good cause. Gary started this event to fund SAFE HAVEN LIGHT home for displaced teens in Rhea County. These are kids from broken homes that are often caught in the middle of surviving and growing up. At SAFE HAVEN, they can stay in school, feel loved and appreciated and get out of a home life that would otherwise keep them from becoming who they were meant to be. Lakefest was a huge success this year…thanks to Gary and a host of boaters who believe in making their community better on the front lines. WATERBLOGGED: The Letter
photo Kentucky Lake Marina
Jan Dalton of Gilbertsville, Kentucky did an amazing thing for us at Life on the Water. A typed letter, corrected in places with white-out and a heart-felt gift gave us deeper meaning to our mission. His action changed our course for 2014. Read the full story at lifeonthewater.com/WaterBlogged. EVENTS The Dixieland Chapter - Antique and Classic Boat Society out of Memphis, Tennessee likes to show off ... the meticulous detail of antique boat restoration that is. Browse photos from the Pickwick Landing State Park show from October. And watch for the story “She’s an Antique” coming in the April/May 2014 issue, exploring the how-to of antique restoration. Send your events to intern@lifeonthewater.com. You could be featured in Life on the Water.
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AN ALL-NEW LOOK New year. New look for Life on the Water. Watch for our Pre-Season 2014 issue in January!
Q&A
A Deep Subject: Watches & Water by Fred Myers
Buying a watch for fun in the outdoors? Oh, if it were only that simple. Read this and you will know why. Ironic, isn’t it. We go to the water to be carefree, far away from appointments and schedules. Yet, we still insist on knowing what time it is. So the question: What’s the best way to satisfy that want? First, some general statements: When quartz watches with digital readouts came along, mechanical watches with analog numbers were predicted to disappear. They didn’t. To prove that new doesn’t always mean better, analog numbers are easier to read and mechanical watches don’t need batteries. More recently, marketers believed cell phones with their built-in clocks would cause watch sales to plummet. That didn’t happen either. Why? Watches make a statement about the wearer. Whether you want to appear suave and sophisticated or bold and adventurous, there’s a watch for you. Besides, a watch is more compact, convenient and durable than a cell phone. That durability factor hits squarely at those of us who play, work or relax around water, especially if we’ve had a good watch ruined by water. In fact, the question of water resistance will be your first concern. And it should. Many watches have been destroyed because the wearer was unaware their supposedly “waterproof ” watch definitely was not. There is no such thing as a “waterproof ” watch, only degrees of water resistance, a rating indicated on the watch face or engraved on the back of the watch case or both. If no rating is indicated, that watch better stay dry. Water resistance is commonly expressed in feet or meters but sometimes in atmospheres (ATM) or BAR. One ATM or BAR is equal to 30 meters or 90 feet. But these values assume static or calm water as if you were slowly lowering your watch into a glass of water. That’s far different from a real-life situation in which a watch is exposed to water under pressure.
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Q&A
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Q&A Good examples are rinsing your watch under a faucet or wearing it while swimming, diving or water skiing. Moving water and pressure will penetrate any watch not made to withstand it. The greater the pressure, the higher the water resistance rating must be. Here’s a handy guide: 90 feet or 30 meters: Okay if splashed while washing your hands but don’t wear it while taking a shower! 150 feet or 50 meters: Okay for swimming but don’t wear it while diving! 600 feet or 200 meters: Okay for most water sports including water skiing and snorkeling but don’t wear it while scuba diving! 1000 feet or 300 meters: Okay for scuba diving but don’t wear it for deep diving! So, for peace of mind while involved in a wide range of water related activities, buy a watch with at least a 600-foot rating. Even then, be sure you read the fine print. Those ratings apply only to watches sealed at the factory when new. Whoever opens the case for any reason, including replacing the battery, must be able to properly reseal the watch. Over time, those seals lose compression and tend to leak. The general rule is they should be replaced about every five years. Shock is a watch’s second worst enemy. No watch takes kindly to being dropped and banged around. Yes, accidents do happen. But if you believe this factor will be important, look for what’s called “G-Shock” watches. Just don’t expect them to be things of beauty. Their necessary resin cases are always thicker to make for a bulkier watch. Aside from those necessaries, buying a watch means being confronted with all kinds of optional features. These three are the most popular and may prove to be the most useful. The watch automatically sets the date at the beginning of each new month, stays accurate by receiving time signals from the nation’s atomic powered clock or uses light to recharge an internal battery that never needs replacing. Okay, now for some quick truths about buying a watch.
1.
o repeat, while quartz watches are more accurate than T mechanical watches, the mechanical watches that wind themselves with the movement of your body don’t require batteries. Especially around and under water, analog faces are easier to read than digital dials.
2. Gold, silver and jewels add to the cost but have nothing to do with keeping time. As for cases, titanium and resin are lighter but stainless steel, although heavier, remains the standard because it looks good and is tough.
4. As with anything else, you get what you pay for. Today’s
“replica” watches may appear to be the real thing but save your money. Junk by any other name is still junk.
5. There are many good watch buys on the internet. Still, if
you aren’t sure of what you are doing, buy in person from a local authorized dealer and prepare to negotiate. With few exceptions, watch manufacturers allow their dealers to drop prices well below MSRP or so-called list prices.
6. Quartz movements aren’t all the same. The higher the price you pay for the watch, the more accurate the time and the more durable the movement.
7. If you buy a chronograph so you can time events, make
sure you check the longest interval of time it will record. Chronographs look impressive but cost more to buy and repair and have limited water resistance ratings because of the push buttons.
8. Other factors aside, make sure you are satisfied with the way the watch looks and how it feels on your wrist.
The number of brands and watches within each brand is bewildering. But to get you started, here are some names to look for in each of four broad price ranges: Less than $100: No doubt about it, Timex is the leader with outstanding bang for the buck. Pay particular attention to their Expedition watches. Casio is well known for its G-Shock watches and for offering such interesting features as thermometers. Less than $500: Citizen more than makes up for a limited selection by offering a lot of features at attractive prices. Also, check out Bulova whose Precisionist watches make good on the claim of being correct within 10 seconds a year. Less than $2,500: At the lower end are such names as Victorinox of Swiss Army fame. Higher on this rung of the price ladder are Swiss-made Mido and Tissot. $3,000 and up: Yes, you are paying for name and reputation. But in the watch industry both are earned with superior materials, superb workmanship and such outstanding durability you may be passing the watch on to your children. In this category are such names as Bell & Ross, Breitling, Omega, Rolex and Tag Heuer. Even if you begin with a relatively inexpensive watch, it need not be your only watch forever. Later, move up to a more expensive watch while keeping the older one for wearing when there’s greater risk of damage. A final tip: Every time you approach a wall or other solid object against which you might accidently bang your watch, fold your watch arm behind your back. Eventually, that habit will become automatic and do much to keep your watch looking good and running longer. Now, have a good time…on the water!
3. Leather watch bands take top honors in comfort and looks.
But to handle water and sweat, a stainless steel band with removable links or adjustable clasp is the way to go. Rubber and nylon bands are reasonable compromises. holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 23
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From Rocky Top to Bimini by Ben Murphy
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Close-up of a Hawksbill sea turtle.
Barracuda filets anyone?
Climbing around on the Sepora wreck made me grateful for Tetanus shots.
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Gospel singers welcome visitors.
The early stages of an ill-fated attempt at a gainer. Needless to say, I did not stick the landing.
L
Leaving the country for the first time is a memorable moment for anyone. This past March I got my opportunity to leave American soil, however, it was slightly unconventional. I am a member of the University of Tennessee Sailing Team, and every year we bareboat charter a couple live-aboard sailboats for the week of Spring Break. This year our destination was Bimini, the westernmost island in the Bahamas. We began our 50-mile crossing from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini at about 10 pm to ensure a daytime entrance into the unlit and poorly marked harbor in North Bimini. The seas were eerily calm that night, very reminiscent of the lakes I grew up skiing on. The Lagoon 44 and the Beneteau 393 we chartered cut straight through the water unhindered by any semblance of swells. I have never experienced anything more peaceful than a night sail in a calm ocean. Something about the sound of the hulls of a catamaran cutting through the water is absolutely mesmerizing. I had to keep myself from shushing people who started conversation up in the cockpit with me. All I really wanted to hear was the water. As we were coming into the harbor the next day around noon, we realized why the charter company told us to arrive during daylight hours. The other boat, the Beneteau, ran aground between the channel markers. They managed to get back into deep water quickly and we proceeded to our home for the week, Blue Water Marina. After waiting about four hours to clear customs (Island Time is no joke!) we immediately walked the half mile or so that separates the bay from the ocean. As we started to walk down the beautiful beach, we heard a big Bahamian woman yelling at us. She was dancing on the porch of
her beachfront restaurant. Naturally, we had to investigate. Her restaurant, Sherri’s Place, quickly became our favorite place on the island. Sherri introduced us to conch salad, a delicious combination of diced tomatoes and onions, cilantro, lime juice and conch. I can’t tell you how many more I ate that week. North Bimini is a tiny little horseshoe-shaped island, never more than three quarters of a mile wide, half of which is mangrove swamp. That leaves about a half-mile by four-mile area of currently habitable land on the west side of the horseshoe. Blue Water Marina, where we docked for the week, is toward the southern tip of the island. Docking fees there are very cheap and I highly recommend it. The first couple days, when we weren’t making day trips to go snorkeling, we stayed near the marina in the slightly run-down portion of the island where all the locals live. The authentic local feel was very cool and unique for such a beautiful destination. About mid-week a couple of us took the Lagoon tender up to the north end of the island and found a very different area. There were vacation houses everywhere; all painted your typical pastel and white beach house color scheme. The marina where we tied up, Bimini Bay Resort Marina, was surrounded by a little tourist’y open-air shopping center. We discovered a real estate developer’s office whose secretary was very interested in telling us about property values and the casino being built up the street. While there, we sat down to eat at a restaurant bar next to two guys who turned out to be the captain and first mate of a beautiful eighty foot yacht we had admired on the way into the marina. They were very interesting to talk to and wound up giving us a tour of the boat when the owners were gone.
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The best part about the whole experience was the people we met. Our marina was full of retired couples passing through on their live-aboard sailboats that loved to talk sailing with us. Our captain and club president struck up a conversation with an interesting family from Colorado and convinced them to come snorkeling with us the next day. There were a few other fun families that we got to know but our best encounter was with a bunch of other college kids from Colorado University. A friend and I met two of the girls at one of the local hangouts and we brought them and their friends out on the boat with us and we all spent most of the week together after that. I’m still keeping up with most of them today. Around Bimini there are many good snorkeling spots. For whatever reason we only ended up going to one of them and we loved it so much that we went twice. The main attraction there is a 100-year-old shipwreck called the Sapona. It sits out of the water about 40 feet, making it one of the tallest landmarks in the whole area, including the islands. Since the walls of the wreck had corroded away we easily swam inside the hull. I noticed a rope hanging down inside the ship. That’s when the real fun began. A few of us took turns climbing up and jumping off the bow of the ship. I even mustered up the courage to dive off a few times, making for some pretty great pictures. The crossing back to Fort Lauderdale was drastically different than the night passage to Bimini. We had great wind so the trip was cut in half, but with that wind came 8-10 foot seas all the way across the Gulf Stream. Thankfully no one got seasick, despite a few close calls. All week we had been trying to troll for fish with no luck whatsoever. However, once we got within two miles of Fort Lauderdale the Amberjack started biting and we caught our daily limit in 15 minutes. I couldn’t have asked for a better trip abroad. Bimini is an island that had something for everyone in our group at relatively inexpensive cost. If there’s a better way to experience sailing in the Caribbean, I haven’t heard of it. But if there is, I’m up for another trip.
Our group, happy and content to watch the sun set.
Oh, the wonderful sound of those steel drums.
Colorful wooden beach huts line the beaches.
We spotted this ugly little guy on the dock. In Fort Lauderdale!
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Stress-free Holiday Destinations in the South Demopolis, Alabama Christmas on the River
December 4 – December 7, 2013 This festival has been featured on HGTV, The Food Network, and it made Demopolis, AL the #5 Ultimate Holiday Town in the USA according to A&E TV! Since its debut in 1972, Alabama’s Christmas on the River has grown into one of the Southeast’s leading attractions. People travel from coast to coast to see the floats that really float! Last year the event brought out 40,000 people so make your plans now! The celebration will begin with the lighting of the love trees. One evening is devoted to the live nativity scene, one to the candlelight tours of local antebellum homes, and the event also plays host to the Alabama State Championship BBQ Cookoff. The week will end on the first Saturday in December with “Fair in the Square” (an arts and crafts show), a children’s day parade, and a spectacular nautical parade and fireworks extravaganza. Contact the Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce at 334-289-0270.
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It’s the season of hustle and bustle. But several destinations in the South offer you a way to celebrate the holiday season and unwind. Chattanooga, Tennessee Southern Belle Riverboat Cruises
November 22 – December 21, 2013 December 7, 14 & 21, 2013 December 31, 2013 The Southern Belle Riverboat in Chattanooga, Tennessee offers several great holiday cruises and packages. On Thanksgiving Day from 1 - 3p.m. there will be a cruise featuring handcarved smoked ham, sage roasted turkey breast, savory cornbread dressing, sweet potato casserole, plus all the trimmings and of course dessert. Beginning November 22 and running through December 21, there’s the Christmas Carol Cruise and we all know there’s nothing like a Christmas carol to get you in the holiday mood! On December 7, 14 & 21 Santa’s Breakfast on the Pier & Cruise will be taking place so you can have breakfast and enjoy a cruise with Chris Cringle himself before he gets too busy! On New Year’s Eve from 4:30 - 6p.m. the Early Bird Cruise includes a prime rib dinner. If you’re ringing in the New Year without the little ones, there will also be an adult-only New Year’s Eve on the River Cruise from 8p.m. - 1a.m. chattanoogariverboat.com.
Grand Rivers, Kentucky Green Turtle Bay Resort New Year’s Eve Party
December 31, 2013 Green Turtle Bay Resort is located on the Cumberland River nestled between the Kentucky and Barkley Lakes in Grand Rivers, Kentucky (the Village Between the Lakes). This health spa, conference center, marina, yacht club and resort all in one is ideally located for vacationers from St. Louis, Indianapolis, Louisville, Nashville, and surrounding
areas. Commonwealth Yacht Club members, condo and transient boat guests are all invited to the club on New Year’s Eve for a night of great food and live music to bring in 2014. Available packages include a condo rental, the New Year’s Eve party and a pool-side New Year’s Day Brunch. Make reservations in advance by calling 270-362-4444 (Club) or 800-498-0428 (Resort).
Pensacola, Florida Polar Bear Plunge
January 1, 2014 Many of us have visited before, but you may not know that Pensacola Beach was recently selected as one of TripAdvisor’s Top 25 Beaches in the U.S. The Gulf Islands National Seashore which surrounds Pensacola was selected as the #3 beach in the U.S. and ranked in the top 25 worldwide. If you don’t want to wait until next summer to feel the sand between your toes, head to Pensacola Beach to celebrate the New Year! An oceanfront fireworks display begins at midnight from the end of the Gulf Pier. While there you can decide to either participate in or observe the Polar Bear Plunge that takes place at Paradise Bar & Grill New Year’s Day at 2:00p.m. And let’s be honest, a polar bear plunge this far South can’t be all that bad! The entry fee benefits the Pensacola Chamber, but there is no charge to observe. Contact the Pensacola Visitor’s Information Center at 800-635-4803.
Buford, Georgia Magical Nights of Lights
through the woods by horseback, catch spotted bass for dinner at the lake, and much more. Magical Nights of Lights at Lake Lanier Islands Resort will celebrate the 21st Anniversary of lighting up the lake this year! Drive over the magnificent snowflake bridge, down through the 12 Days of Christmas, up past the illuminated diamond wonder light, under the blanket-lit bridge, all the way to the dancing Holiday House, Santa’s Workshop, Christmas Carnival and more. You’re Magical Nights of Lights journey doesn’t stop with the lights. The Holiday Village offers a bonfire for roasting marshmallows, delicious holiday fare, pony and amusement rides, holiday shopping and much more. For reservations and more details call 770-945-8787.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi Christmas Tree Lighting & Open House
December 5-7, 2013 Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast on the Eastern shore of Biloxi Bay, Ocean Springs was voted one of the Top Ten Small Towns in the South in our last issue and also received the 2013 Great American Main Street Award. They will be celebrating the season with their annual Christmas Tree Lighting with Santa December 5 from 6 - 8p.m. The next two days, December 6 & 7 merchants downtown, uptown, all around town will offer holiday specials, live music and Santa sightings as part of the Holiday Open House. Contact the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce at 228-875-4424.
Throughout December This beautiful resort in Buford, Georgia is situated along the shores of Lake Sidney Lanier and really does have it all. You can play a round of golf on an award-winning course, gallop
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...more HolidayCelebrations on the Water 1
December 1-31 Owensboro, Kentucky
Holiday Forest A gala preview opens the seasonally adorned Owensboro Museum of Fine Art’s celebration of the holiday season, featuring trees designed by area artists, floral designers and cultural organizations interpreting the museum’s exhibition of Native Americans. visitowensboro.com 2
December 6-7 Savannah, Tennessee
Savannah’s Christmas By the River Boat parades on the 6th and 7th plus historic home tours, carriage rides and tree-lighting ceremony. tourhardincounty.org 3
December 1-31
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Ruby Falls Ruby Red Christmas Classic holiday celebration held Fridays and Saturdays in December, when the historic attraction becomes a winter wonderland of lights, decorations, falling snow and live, seasonal music. Carriage rides; crafting with kids in the North Pole Workshop. rubyfalls.com 4
December 4-8 Pensacola, Florida
46th Annual Snowball Derby More than 30,000 fans cheer on the biggest names in motorsports at Five Flags Speedway. The 300-lap, all-star race is considered by many to be the most prestigious event in late model racing. snowballderby.com 5
December 5 Forsyth, Georgia
Hometown Holidays Parade Lights cover everything at this lovely nighttime parade, from floats, cars and go-carts to animals and people. Marching bands, dance troupes, beauty queens, carolers and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Businesses stay open late, offering holiday treats! forsyth-monroechamber.com 6
December 5-7, 12-15, 19-31
Montgomery, Alabama
Christmas Lights Festival 2013 Montgomery Zoo by foot, train or Zoofari Skylift! Horseback rides, shopping at Santa’s Craftshop, and great food and nightly entertainment at the Overlook Café. montgomeryzoo.com 7
Deep South River Map is copyrighted, and property of DayMarker Enterprises, LLC. Reproduction in part or in whole is prohibited without written permission. Map is not to be used for navigational purposes, general vicinity only.
32 | lifeonthewater.com | holiday 2013
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December 6
Pass Christian, Mississippi
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28th Annual Christmas in the Pass Historic Downtown is transformed into a holiday wonderland, trimmed with colorful decorations and a magical display of Christmas trees. Lighted boat parade, live music, local foods and a fantastic fireworks show. mscoast.com
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December 7 Rogersville, Alabama
Joe Wheeler Harbor Lights Parade Millions of lights float on the harbor as homeport boaters and visiting boats parade the harbor after sundown. Free to the public, Daniella’s on the River Restaurant specials. rogersvillechamber.com
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December 7-8 Franklin, Tennessee
Dickens of a Christmas Free, Victorian-themed festival celebrating the tales of Charles Dickens features hundreds of costumed performers reenacting favorite scenes; period music, strolling minstrels, arts and crafts and 19th century foods, such as sugar plums and roasted chestnuts. historicfranklin.com 5
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December 14 Rugby, Tennessee
Christmas at Historic Rugby Enjoy candlelit visits to traditionally decorated historic buildings and seasonal music performed throughout this charming Victorian English village on the Cumberland Plateau. Two reservation-only seatings for the 4-course Victorian dinner at Harrow Road Café. historicrugby.org
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December 14 Decatur, Alabama
Historic Decatur Christmas Tour Delightful, self-guided tours of traditionally decorated homes and historic buildings decked with lights, fruit and greenery in celebration of the season. Carriage rides, holiday treats, carol singing, handbell choir and Christmas decorating tips. decaturchristmastour.com 12
December 31
Panama City Beach, Florida
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New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop Free event on the white-sand beach is fun for everyone under an adoring sun, with live music, fresh seafood, kids’ activities, an 800-pound, glowing beach ball and spectacular fireworks over the Gulf. visitpanamacitybeach.com
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L a k e G u nte r s v i l l e , T enne s s ee R i v e r
W i l s on L a k e , T enne s s ee R i v e r
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food
Holiday dining is better on the water. Dock & Dine for New Year’s Eve
Choose from a coastal celebration in Destin, Florida, a boater’s bash in Rogersville, Alabama or a ‘rowdy’ party in Nashville, Tennessee.
Dressing…or stuffing?
Either way, it’s a Southern tradition.
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 37
Dock & Dine
food
Nashville, TenNessee
Music City New Year’s Eve Bash on Broadway
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rammy award-winning country singer/ songwriter Hank Williams Jr. will headline the fifth annual event in downtown Nashville, destined to be the biggest New Year’s Eve celebration in the South. Enjoy free live music, fireworks, confetti blast and witness Nashville’s own “Music Note Drop” at midnight New Year’s Eve. The stage is located on Lower Broadway between 1st and 3rd Avenues just steps away from the Riverfront Dock. “This year is going to be very special on New Year’s Eve,” says Hank Williams Jr. “December 31st will mark the 60th anniversary of daddy’s death. For years, I have not performed on New Year’s Eve in honor of my father, but this year is a monumental year in the history of Hank Williams. If daddy would have lived, he would have been 90 years old this year. I hope Music City is ready to boogie woogie, 38 | lifeonthewater.com | holiday 2013
because Bocephus is going to bring the party to Nashville.” Leading up to the ‘Bash’, Nashville is packed with football. Sunday December 29th, the Titans play the Houston Texans at 12 noon. On Monday the 30th at 2:15 p.m., Nashville hosts the Music City Bowl, matching SEC and ACC team action. The Shelby Street Pedestrian Bridge connects Nashville’s popular 2nd Avenue and Riverfront Dock transients to LP field. More entertainers will join Hank. For updates, check Life on the Water’s Facebook page. The Nashville Riverfront Dock is open to the public on a first come-first served basis and is managed by Nashville Parks and Recreation. A-Dock has 30 and 50 amp service with water connection and the T-Dock just offers moorage. More than 30 restaurants on 2nd Avenue and on Broadway are within walking distance of the Riverfront Dock, including B.B. Kings Blues Café and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. For the Riverfront Dock reservations, contact Russell Lackey at 615-862-8472 or Russell.lackey@nashville.gov. For Bash on Broadway, hotel or restaurant information, go to visitmusiccity.com. Look for a Life on the Water exclusive interview with Hank Williams, Jr. in the April/May 2014 issue!
Rogersville, Alabama Joe Wheeler State Park Resort New Year’s Eve Party
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ather your boating friends, cruise to the Tennessee River’s Wheeler Lake at milemarker 277 and tie up the boat in one of the 64 transient docks available right in front of Joe Wheeler State Park Resort Lodge. You could stay on your boat or get one of the lodge suites, rooms or lakeside cottages overlooking the water. Joe Wheeler Resort Lodge hosts this fun-filled celebration to ring in 2014 and provides an allinclusive package starting at $150 for a standard room. Junior suite package is $170 and King Suite $180. Accommodations, Prime Rib Buffet, DJ Luvale Cooper with C.C. Music Entertainment,
food
hors d’oeuvres on New Year’s Eve and a New Year’s Day breakfast are all included. And now, effective just this year, a cash bar is available. This year’s New Year’s Eve Party at Joe Wheeler is extra special. It’s the kick-off event for the 75th Anniversary of Alabama State Parks throughout 2014. Reservations are required and the lodge usually books quickly. 256-247-5461.
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f you don’t live on the coast and you are like most people, when you visit a seaside town you want to enjoy fresh local seafood. One of the best places to do that in Destin, Florida is Harbor Docks. They proudly fish their own seafood and provide their fresh, local catches to several other local restaurants. Established in 1979 Harbor Docks was literally a small cottage with no airconditioning. Owner Charles Morgan has continued to build on that old shanty while keeping the same family size picnic tables and the inviting charm. With a beautiful view of Destin Harbor and Harbor Dock’s own fleet of fishing boats, the service is friendly and the food is made from scratch…authentic and healthy. New Year’s Eve at Harbor Docks means live music, superb dining and sometimes even a warm Gulf breeze. Pull up in your boat early to get a spot. But this iconic hotspot of entertainment deserves recognition for something they do in November. Every year at Thanksgiving, Harbor Docks’ own Ann Jones, prepares a classic Thanksgiving
spread for the community. Served by volunteers from the local Habitat for Humanity, Harbor Docks doesn’t charge for this meal. They accept donations that benefit the Habitat (habitat.org) and Destin Harvest (destinharvest.org). Serving as many as 1,700 people, Harbor Docks raised more than $20,000 for charity. Chuck’s Fish in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, a sister restaurant of Harbor Docks, also offers a Thanksgiving feast for charity with proceeds benefitting Project Blessing (projectblessing.org). What a great way to start a new year.
Destin, Florida
Harbor Docks New Year’s Eve at the Gulf
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 39
food
Dressing…or Stuffing? by Adam DeMaioribus Stuffing or dressing? Which one do you make every year for Thanksgiving and probably Christmas, too? The term ‘stuffing’ first appeared in English print in the early 1500’s. Some food historians believe the word “dressing” came from the Victorian Age because the word “stuffing” didn’t sound refined enough. Today the National Turkey Federation says the two monikers imply the same meaning. The main difference between the two dishes? Dressing is served as a side to “dress” up the main protein at the table, while stuffing would infer a similar dish that is actually “stuffed” inside of the protein before, during, or after preparation. Today, a family feast in the South isn’t complete without cornbread dressing, but the dish’s first appearances date
back to the European Settlers. When they arrived in the New World, Native Americans had been using corn in all of its forms for centuries. With short supplies of flour, the early settlers began using corn meal as a substitute in their recipes. As a result, dressing was prepared with cornmeal thus birthing a Southern tradition, cornbread dressing. Another Southern tradition on the coast is oyster dressing. It is believed by some that it originated in working-ship kitchens especially those in the river systems of the South. Although different seafoods can be included in dressing recipes, oysters are the most common choice. One Southern Grandma said it best: “Enjoy with others and remember, dressing is not just for Thanksgiving and it’s not just for turkey either!”
Southern Cornbread Dressing Suzanne McMinn, chickensintheroad.com Ingredients 7 cups cornbread, crumbled 3 cups white bread, crumbled or cubed 2 cups celery, chopped 3 cups onions, chopped 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning 1 teaspoon sage 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup butter, melted 3-4 cups chicken or turkey broth 3 eggs, lightly beaten
Directions Place the crumbled cornbread and white bread in a large mixing bowl. Add chopped celery and onions. Mix. Pour the melted butter over all the ingredients along with ONLY 3 cups of the broth. Add the seasonings gradually. Test to your taste. Add the fourth cup of broth if you like. Add the eggs after the seasoning is to your liking. Mix well and spoon into a greased 9 x 13 casserole pan. You can refrigerate it overnight (or even a couple of days). It’s truly best when made ahead of time and left to sit, but you can bake it right away. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes, covered. Take off the cover and bake an additional 30 minutes.
Oyster Cornbread Dressing Chef Josh Butler • whatscookingamerica.net Ingredients
Directions
4 tablespoons butter, divided 1 cup chopped onion 4 green onions, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped Pinch of cayenne pepper 3 cups crumbled Cornbread 3 cups bread crumbs, diced 1/2 cup minced fresh parsley salt and pepper to taste 2 large eggs lightly beaten 1 pint fresh oysters, drained (reserve 1/2 cup oyster liquid)
Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly butter a large rectangular baking pan. Heat 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Sauté onions and celery in the butter until tender; remove from heat, add a small pinch of cayenne and let cool. Combine cornbread and breadcrumbs in a large bowl; gently fold in sautéed onions, salt, pepper, and parsley. Add beaten eggs and toss more; moisten with the reserved oyster liquid until moist but not soggy. Pat the mixture into the prepared baking pan (it should make a 1-inch layer in the pan). Gently stir in the oysters. Dot with remaining butter and bake about 45 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
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Suzanne’s cookbook makes a great Christmas gift! Visit our online store at lifeonthewater.com/shop
food Sausage Dressing
Maveline Sanders, Ashland City, Tennessee Ingredients 1 pound mild or sage breakfast sausage 4 ounces (1/2 cup) butter 2 cups chopped onion 1 1/2 to 2 cups chopped celery 10 cups cubed French bread or white bread 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage or 1 teaspoon dried leaf sage, crumbled 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley 1 teaspoon salt Dash freshly ground black pepper 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
Directions
Lightly butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. Heat oven to 350°. In large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking up and stirring frequently, until sausage is no longer pink. Remove to paper towels to drain. Wipe out the skillet and melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the onion and celery and cook, stirring, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. In large mixing bowl, toss the bread cubes with the herbs and seasonings. Add the vegetables with the butter and the drained sausage. Stir in chicken broth until well moistened, but not mushy. Pack gently into the prepared baking dish and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and broil for about 3 to 4 minutes, or just until browned on top. Serves 10 to 12.
Oyster Stuffing/Casserole Jenn Thomas • antiquegardenhome.com Ingredients 1 large bag of dried bread cubes 2 onions, diced (Reserve skins and ends for stock) 5 ribs celery 1 pound loose pork sausage The livers from the turkey 1 pint of shucked fresh oysters (reserve ‘liquor’) Turkey stock to moisten 1 total cup sage, parsley, thyme (fresh chopped) Salt and pepper to taste
Turkey Stock Begin stock in large pot with onion skins, a few celery ribs, parsley, and sage, neck, and gizzards and plenty of water. Save livers for stuffing. Cook at least 3 hours.
Directions Sauté fresh sausage in a large skillet for about 5 minutes. Add chopped onion and celery and cook until tender. Add diced livers and cook mixture 5 minutes. In large bowl combine bread cubes, sausage mixture, fresh chopped herbs, oysters, reserved liquor, and turkey stock to moisten. Stir well. Taste a bit of the mix and add salt and pepper. Stuff the bird and this should make enough for an extra casserole. Bake in the turkey or in casserole until hot.
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 41
D AL E H O LL O W LAK E
K E N T U C K Y LAK E - T E N N E SS E E RIV E R
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K E N T U C K Y LAK E - T E N N E SS E E RIV E R
W a yne C o u nty , T enne s s ee – Kent u c k y L a k e , T enne s s ee R i v e r
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 43
Scott s bo r o , A l a b a m a – L a k e G u nte r s v i l l e , T enne s s ee R i v e r
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scrapbook
Riverboat Conversations Sometimes...it’s just nice to slow down.
Something magical was happening when Roy Harper and Carla Scott of Panama City, Florida, boarded the vintage Southern Belle Riverboat along with 200 or so others at Jackson County Park. by Chris Welch photos by Robin Conn “Will you be my Rose and I’ll be your Jack?” said Roy. “This cruise does take me back in time,” replied Carla as she smiled, recalling the two main characters played by Leonardo Di Caprio and Kate Winslett who fell in love on the ship in the blockbuster film “Titanic.” The Titanic wasn’t a riverboat – it was actually a short-lived ocean liner -- but Carla’s point is clear: There’s something special, even romantic, about sailing back in time on a riverboat similar to ones that were prevalent on the waterways in the 1700-1800s.
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 45
scrapbook
Capt Mike Card and First Mate Sam Hixon in the pilothouse.
“Absolutely, it (riverboat) all revolves around nostalgia,” said Mike Card, who has been the pilot of the Chattanoogabased Southern Belle Riverboat for eight years and a riverboat captain for 20 years. “Nobody wants to leave here,” he expressed as he prepared to pull away from the dock. And who can blame them? The majestic three-story riverboat – built in 1985 to resemble its predecessors -- glides up and down the Tennessee River, allowing passengers to savor the beautiful sunsets and scenery along with their food and beverages. Hundreds of riverboats once cruised America’s waters in the 1700s and 1800s, bringing passengers and freight up and down the river and boosting the economies of those river towns. But the proliferation of railroads during the Civil War and eventually automobiles gradually doomed most of the riverboats as a primary means of transportation. “Riverboats were the primary mode of transportation before automobiles and trains,” Southern Belle first mate Sam Hixon told us in the small pilothouse while Card drove the boat. Hixon gives the passengers a wonderful oral history of the riverboat during the cruise. “Back in the day, the only alternative was the horse
Roy Harper and Karla Scott of Panama City Florida.
and buggy and that wasn’t very fast. The top speed might have been 12 miles per hour. The Civil War raged and riverboat traffic never caught up. There were thousands of riverboats pre-Civil War. Now, there are just a handful in each state.” In today’s hustlebustle society, riverboats don’t have a chance. For instance, Hixon said it took the Southern Belle twelve hours to cruise from its base in Chattanooga to Scottsboro. You can make that same trip by car in an hour. “It’s not really about getting to where we’re going. It’s about the journey and the people you meet on the water,” says Hixon. According to him, pilots and captains may maneuver towboats on the Tennessee River but most likely have been on many other inland rivers as well. “I love to live on the river,” Hixon said. “Day-in and day-out, the people you meet are really nice.” The guests on the cruise are treated to a buffet dinner and live music, but there’s no doubt what the main attraction is. “We just enjoy the relaxing part of floating down the river,” said Karen Adams of Scottsboro. Former Scottsboro Mayor Ron Bailey said the water to folks in Scottsboro and Jackson County is like space travel to the folks in Huntsville, Alabama.
It’s not really about getting to where we’re going. It’s about the journey and the people you meet on the water.
46 | lifeonthewater.com | holiday 2013
scrapbook
A young boy enjoys the Tennessee River from the water.
More than 200 passengers enjoy a 2 hour cruise.
Sandra Steele and Steve Livingston of Huntsville Alabama.
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 47
scrapbook “There is a special connection that goes beyond words,” he said as he turned to point out magnificent homes on the shoreline, coves where boats can go during rough weather and even the remnants of the old Revere Factory that existed years ago – all places that for the most part, you can only see from the water. This special connection to the river is expressed eloquently in Mark Twain’s Life on the Mississippi:
“When I was a boy, there was but one permanent ambition among my comrades in our village on the west bank of the Mississippi River,” Twain wrote. “That was, to be a steam boatman. We had transient ambitions of other sorts, but they were only transient. When a circus came and went, it left us all burning to become a clown...now and then we had a hope that if we lived and were good, God would permit us to be pirates. These ambitions faded out, each in its turn; but the ambition to be a steam boatman always remained.”
Karen Adams of Scottsboro.
The slow motion of the Southern Belle was relaxing. And for a 2-hour period, I did not answer my cell phone nor send a text. I just watched the water. And understood deeply how this could flow through your veins and become a part of you just like breathing. Former Mayor of Scottsboro Ron Bailey.
Live entertainment onboard the Southern Belle.
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Cruise includes buffet.
The Best Place to Stay, Play, Relax and Enjoy
50 ton travel lIFt
JUST GOT BETTER
Co l o n y Co u r s e I m pro v e m e nt s | n ew on-s It e l a und ry FaCIl It y F r e e Co u r t e s y C a r | n ewly remod e led C a b Ins
Surrounded on three sides by beautiful Lake Guntersville, our 360-acre complex is your complete family recreation and vacation destination.
play our new miniverde greens at the plantation Course marIne repaIr
lake FIshIng
doCks restaurant
golF Course
find us on
417 Ed Hembree Drive | Scottsboro, AL The marina is located on the Tennessee River at mile marker 378.2.
800.268.2884 | 256.912.0592 | www.GoosePond.org Named by Life On The Water Readers
holiday 2013 |Most lifeonthewater.com | 49 Best Resort, Best Marina, Best Restaurant, Best Marine Repair, Beautiful Lake
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2 0 1 4
L if e
o n
th e
W at e r
P h o t o
C o nt e st
Capture Life on the Water and you could win $500. Submit at photos@lifeonthewater.com Photos must be 300 dpi, minimum 1500 x 1500 pixels to qualify.
photo: Fishing at sunrise on a foggy morning in Muscatine, Iowa on the Mississippi River. Mike Gilbertson submitted in the 2013 Photo Contest
C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S ! W inn e rs o f th e S E C F OO T B A L L G I V E AW AY !
October 19 LSU @ Ole Miss
October 26 Tennessee @ Alabama
WINNERS
Melanie Dinsmore Macon, Mississippi
Brad Myracle
Lexington, Tennessee
Ken Smith
Buford, Georgia November 23 Kentucky @ Georgia 50 | lifeonthewater.com | holiday 2013
ship’s store | services you’ll need on the water
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 51
ship’s store | services you’ll need on the water
RugPilot 3.75x4.9 outline.indd 1
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4/26/13 10:49 AM
ship’s store | services you’ll need on the water
holiday 2013 | lifeonthewater.com | 53
marketplace | for sale on the water Boats
LIST WITH US as low as $150 for 6 months. lifeonthewater. com/marketplace or call 877-274-0767
54 | lifeonthewater.com | holiday 2013
DON’T BUY NEWBUY SMART !
Marquis Yachts 4 to Choose From - 55’ LS, 59’ PH 59’ Sky Lounge & 65’ Pilot House
Sedan Bridges Several to Choose From - 30’ to 50’ Gas & Diesel Available
Aft Cabin Motor Yachts Several Manufacturers to Choose From Diesel & Gas - 30’ to 50’
Largest selection of pre-owned , late model, freshwater Carvers, Marquis & and more on Pickwick Lake! ! CAPTAIN’S CHOICE OFFERS:
2001 Sea Ray 420 Aft Cabin MY Diesels, Low Hours, Freshwater, Nice! $199,900
Certified Pre-Owned Yachts Gibson House Boats Seven to Choose From - 36’ - 59’ $35,500 - $299,000
Traditional House Boats Several Manufacturers Available Gas & Diesel - 60’ - 112’
Buyer/Seller Services From 1st Time Buyers to Experienced Yachtsmen Yacht Delivery Services
Silverton Sport Bridges 38’ Gas & 43’ Diesel $179,900 & $299,900
RARE 1989 Ocean Alexander 48 MY Diesels, Freshwater, One Owner $274,900
Carver Super Sports Four to Choose From - 38’ to 42’ $169,900 - $299,900
The Best Financing & Insurance Options Consulting Services Over 30 Media Resources Used to Sell Your Boat
Sundancers & Cruisers Several Manufacturers to Choose From Gas & Diesel - 30’ to 50’
1988 Hyundai 49 Elegant MY Diesels, Inverter, Great Liveaboard $149,900
Sail Boats Two to Choose From - 32’ - 45’ $15,900 - $84,900
Over 30 Years of Combined Experience in the Yacht Industry
C Oming
in
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On the bayou with Swamp People’s Liz Cavalier Choate
Publisher and editor Christy Martin sits down with the ‘gator hunter, trendsetter…mom and wife.
Fly Fishing North Georgia from Bill Vanderford
A pastime that embodies relaxation couldn’t be better than the lakes of North Georgia.
Boathouse Beauty
Hank Williams, Jr.
Swimsuits for you
Forgotten Florida
Best on the Water
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Writer Marian Accardi explores design and functionality of the structure that can be more than just storage.
We pose ten questions to the rowdiest fisherman on the Tennessee River.
A preview from an up and coming Alabama designer and a preview of favorites for real women.
Bill Vanderford takes us to the Florida coast untouched by high rise buildings. Slow down. You’re about to be calm.
Music connects us. Soothes us. Heals us. Festivals embody the spirit of a community. In 2014, we take a look at the Best FESTIVALS on the water in the South.
marketplace | for sale on the water 353 Till Davis Road, Langston AL - $539,500 3225 Sunrise Drive, Guntersville, AL Spacious 4BR/4.5BA Waterfront Home featuring 5000 plus sq. ft., approximately 112 ft. shoreline, seawall, 2 slip boathouse, 9ft ceilings, heated salt water pool with pool house, back yard basket ball court and putting green. Hardwood and tile floors, granite counters. $729,500
SOLD
Main Channel Waterfront Home offering a 2 slip boathouse with 2 electric roll up doors and 1 manual roll up door and boat ramp. This house has 2,577 sqft+/-, 3 bedroom / 4 bath, bonus room, eat in kitchen, living room with stacked stone fireplace and built-in entertainment center, lake side deck & screened in porch, lake fed irrigation, & 2 car front entry garage. $539,500
2356 Buck Island Drive, Guntersville, AL 1491 Signal Point Road, Guntersville, AL Magnificent Newly Remodeled Main Channel Waterfront Home featuring 310+/- ft. of shoreline and gorgeous lake view. This beautiful 3 story home offers 7,400 +/- total sq. ft., 4 Bedroom / 4.5 bath, Boat House with 2 electric boat hoists and a jet ski lift, heated swimming pool and pool house. $1,199,500
Custom Built fully furnished Main Channel Waterfront Home on Prestigious Buck Island professionally landscaped 4.6+/- acres featuring 310+/-ft manicured shoreline w/stone seawall,2slip boathouse, 5,969+/-SQFT,5BR/7BA, private tennis court. MUST SEE! $2,399,500
244 Browns Creek Road, Guntersville, AL
60 Goodwin Street, Scottsboro, AL Main Channel Waterfront Custom Built Home featuring 102+/- ft. of shoreline, 2 slip boat house with electric hoists/roll-up doors, stacked stone seawall, 2516+/- sq. ft. 4BR/3BA, great room with gas log fireplace, hardwood floor, vaulted ceiling and view, lakeside walk-out family room with gas log fireplace, breakfast/dining room with vaulted ceiling & view, open kitchen with hardwood floor, center island and casual dining bar. $629,500
SOLD
130 Pine Island Drive, Scottsboro, AL Main Channel Waterfront Home featuring gated entrance, aggregate circle driveway, Full Guest House, 2+ Acres, 450 ft of water frontage, 2 slip boat house with electric hoists and electric roll-up doors and amazing panoramic view of Lake Guntersville, Kitchen with solid surface counters, 5 Star Gas Cook top, range oven, and second oven, Bosch dishwasher, kitchen Aid Refrigerator, and Microwave, Master suit with granite double vanity, whirlpool tub, walk-in double head tile shower, heated floors, surround sound, and built in wardrobe. Too Many amenities to List! $1,399,500
147 Carlton Road, Scottsboro AL
SOLD
4 br/3ba Waterfront Home featuring 100 +/- ft shoreline, good water to a 2 slip boat house w/ 30x8 covered deck. Inside the home you will find 3200 +/- sqft offering hdw & tl flooring, kt with vaulted ceilings, stack stone gas fp, built in cabinets/shelves, kt w/ granite counter tops and breakfast area, master br with lake view and oversized master bath, laundry with built in cabinets and sink area. Porch on 3 sides of house, lake side deck and very nice 53x9 heated/cooled lake side sun room. $659,500
871 Signal Point Road, Guntersville, AL
770 Snug Harbor Road, Grant, AL
SOLD
Main Channel Waterfront Home offers 4br/3.5ba, eat in kitchen, hardwood floors, 9ft ceilings, master suite w/ laundry room & sun room w/ fire place and view of lake, 2slip boathouse w/ 2 electric hoist and gazebo, good water and seawall. $619,500
Talk about waking up to a view! This 3 bedroom / 2 bath main channel waterfront home has one! With its rustic feel and functional layout, this waterfront home could be a weekend or year round home. Large concrete composite deck on the lake side, sun room, 2 slip boat house with electric doors and lifts, seawall and concrete walk way stretching the length of the property, patio on the lake, covered deck area & 2 sun decks on the boathouse. Must see!!! $589,500
2660 Buck Island Drive, Guntersville, AL
SOLD
4 BR/5.5 Bath Main Channel Waterfront Home on 1.74 acre level lot. Home offers 171+/-ft of shoreline, 2 slip open boat house, rock seawall, in ground salt water pool, professional gourmet kitchen, hardwood, slate flooring, 3 fireplaces, 3 car garage. $749,500 b
Beautifully remodeled premier main channel waterfront estate featuring 6.95+/- acres, point lot w/1060+/- ft. on the water w/seawall, 2 slip boathouse, excellent water, 5841+/- sf, 4BR/ 6BA, gourmet kit, new master suite & bath, new whole property professional landscaping, keyless gated entry & much more. $2,995,000
1897 White Elephant Road, Grant, AL
SOLD
Beautiful 4 Bedroom / 3.5 Bath waterfront home featuring 3,300+/-sq.ft, Hardy Plank & Stone, good water, landscaped shoreline with rock seawall, extra nice vinyl sided 2 slip boat house with 2 heavy duty electric hoists, roll-up doors, covered & open side decks, and professionally landscaped lawn with lake fed irrigation. $639,500
THE KEN WILLIAMS SALES TEAM LAKE GUNTERSVILLE REAL ESTATE • YOUR LAKEFRONT SPECIALISTS 237 Gunter Ave., Guntersville, AL 35976 • Cell: 256-302-1510 Email: Ken@DiscoverOurLake.com Visit Our Website at: DiscoverOurLake.com
It’s a perfect time to Live Life on the Water...
marketplace | for sale on the water
Clubs and Organizations
Tennessee Marina Association Kentucky Marina Association
Providing strong communication in the marine industry in Kentucky and Tennessee, KMA and TMA work with federal and state organizations on behalf of their membership to promote the benefits and economic impact of recreational boating on our communities. For a list of member marinas, affiliated companies or membership information, kentucky-marinas.com and tennesseemarina.com. Director, Michele Edwards 270-388-2532.
JOIN the North Alabama Boaters’ Association NABA is a non-profit organization established to give North Alabama boaters a network on the water. • promotes safe boating • give back to our community • network with other boating clubs • host social events • donate to local charities • BoatU.S. discounted membership. northalabamaboating.com
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Boat insurance has changed over the last few years. Listen to LIFE ON THE WATER’S MARINE INSURANCE PODCAST with Jon Horton of Jack Martin & Associates. (Please see ad on inside front cover) Visit lifeonthewater.com RESOURCES page, or scan your smartphone here.
CryeHLeike Pickwick Serving the tri-state areas of AL, MS and TN 25 Old South Road Counce, Tennessee 38326 (731) 689-8000
cryeleikepickwick.com 19 CR 33-$629,000 Outstanding “A� frame in desirable Yellow Creek with walk out basement. Totally remodeled in 2008. Great lake views & your own private boathouse. David Harbin 731-926-1737
0 Silver Water Lane$150,000 130 feet of Tennessee Riverfront. 2 lots w/rip-rap. 2 RV hook-up pads. Steps down to water. Pontoon garage & efficiency apt. furnished. Boat ramp nearby. Libby Adams 731-607-1353
23 Elks Landing-$445,000
30 CR 337-$374,900 Waterfront
Beautiful custom built 4BR/3.5BA home with a covered boat slip and a community pool. Extras include a bonus room for kids and a parking pad for boats plus a double garage. David Harbin 731-926-1737
3BR/2BA home recently renovated with style & charm. Sunroom across the back of the home. Private boat house & pier. Yellow Creek area. Mary Ann Smith 731-926-5404
60 Harbor View Dr.-$775,000
80 Viewpoint-$599,000
Fantastic waterview home located across from marina and boat ramp. Custom cabinets, granite tops, hardwood floors and wet bar. Huge master bed and bath. Three car garage w/car lift. Two covered boat slips and ramp. Two fireplaces Randy Rinks 731-926-5058
Wake up to million dollar views in this 5BR/4.5BA home on the south side of the lake. Covered boat slip w/lift, pool privileges, in-law suite, 3 car garage and many upgrades throughout! Brenda Bailey Blakley 901-834-8804
155 Westshore Ridge-$995,000 Elegant waterfront
442 Eagle Pt.-$299,900 One
4BR/4.5BA home in gated Grand Villas at Pickwick Lake. Open floor plan to enjoy the fantastic views of the lake. Two masters, boat slip & HOA pool. Outdoor fireplace & covered deck. Randy Rinks 731-926-5058
of a kind LOG CABIN with breathtaking views of Pickwick Lake. Screened in deck area great for relaxing & enjoying the views of the lake. Hank Thomas 731-926-5051
220 Anchor Pt.-$475,000
9 Shackelford-$449,000
Pickwick Lake water view 3BR/2.5BA home with a boat slip. Large open floor plan on main level plus 2 covered porches with water views. Libby Adams 731-607-1353
Waterfront 4BR/3BA home with a dock for all water toys. Includes a bonus room. Most rooms overlook Bear Creek on Pickwick Lake. Must see to appreciate the tremendous views! Hank Thomas 731-926-5051
325 Anchor Pt. - $995,000
35 Faraway Point $769,000 Waterfront 4BR/3.5BA home
Beautifully furnished Waterfront 5BR/3.5BA with rare east view of Pickwick Lake. Great outdoor kitchen w/fireplace & TV to enjoy the view. Boat slip included. Randy Rinks 731-926-5058
is completely custom. Includes 2 car garage & a walkout daylight basement with a huge game room and a full bath. Includes a boat slip in Quarry Hollow Marina. David Harbin 731-926-1737
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P I C K W I C K LAK E - T E N N E SS E E RIV E R
P I C K W I C K LAK E a nd T E N N - T O M W A T E R W A Y
Join us for this Blessed Season... the Spirit of Christmas will be all around you. On Pickwick Lake and the Tenn-Tom Waterway DecemBer 2 – BurnsvIlle Christmas Parade DecemBer 6 – Iuka Christmas at the Courthouse & Parade DecemBer 7 – tIshomIngo Christmas Parade To Be AnnounceD – Belmont Christmas Celebration January 1 – tIshomIngo state Park First Day Hike January 11-12 – tIshomIngo state Park 14th Annual Ice Bowl Disc Golf Tournament
Discover Tishomingo counTy, mississippi
Iuka • 662-423-8421 Belmont • 662-454-3381 BurnsvIlle • 662-427-9526 tIshomIngo • 662-438-6402 tIshomIngo state Park • 662-438-6914
1-800-FUN-HERE (386-4373) tishomingofunhere.org facebook.com/visittishomingo
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RESOURCE DIRECTORY THANK YOU for doing business with the companies that support Life on the Water. Find our magazine at these locations and Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Hastings and other water-loving bookstores. Resource Page # Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourism Association 13 DALE HOLLOW LAKE Sunset Marina 42 DOUGLAS LAKE Jefferson County, Tennessee 11 HIWASSEE RIVER Mountain View Marina 61 Jack Martin & Associates Insurance inside front cover KENTUCKY LAKE Riverstone Estates & Marina 42 Perryville Marina 42 Cuba Landing Marina 42 KENTUCKY LAKE – Wayne County, Tennessee Clifton Marina 43 Roger Smith Financial 43 Tennessee Fitness Spa 43 Wayne County, TN Chamber of Commerce 43 LAKE BARKLEY Grand Rivers, Kentucky 10 LAKE CUMBERLAND State Dock Houseboat Rental 16 LAKE GUNTERSVILLE Alred Marina & Marine Service 3 Erwin Marine Sales 6 Guntersville, Alabama 10 Somewhere on the Lake 34 Guntersville Marina 34 Gunter’s Landing 34 Freedom Marine Center, LLC 35 Ken Williams Lake Guntersville Real Estate 57 LAKE LANIER Buford, Georgia 10 lifeonthewater.com 20 Mama Wilson’s Southern-made Cookies & Cakes 16 MARKETPLACE for sale Boats 54-55 Waterfront Property and Homes 57, 59 Clubs & Organizations 58 Products 58 PICKWICK LAKE Marine Sales of Pickwick 9 Captain’s Choice 55 Crye-Leike Realty 59 Hardin County, Tennessee 60 SCOTTSBORO, ALABAMA – LAKE GUNTERSVILLE The Docks Seafood & Steak House 44 Angler Marine 44 Goose Pond Colony Plantation 49 Shinerz Showcar Cleaning Supplies 58 SHIP’S STORE Services Diesel Don 51 GDS Services, LLC (marine surveys) 51 Performance Propeller 51 Yacht Surveyors, Inc. 51 Aqua Lantern Solar Lighted Buoys 52 Merco Marine 52 The Rug Pilot 52 America’s Great Loop Cruisers’ Association 53 Aqua Services, Inc. 53 Cruisers Buy Terry 53 Honor Marine Services (surveyor) 53 Southern Marine Towing & Salvage 53 SMITH LAKE, ALABAMA Smith Lake Paddleboards 17 TENN-TOM WATERWAY Aberdeen, Mississippi 10 Columbus, Mississippi 10 Tishomingo County, Mississippi 60 True Course Captain’s School 13 TowBoatU.S. back cover WaterWay Adventures 4-5 WHEELER LAKE Rogersville, Alabama 10 Decatur & Morgan County, Alabama 15 River City Marine 15 Joe Wheeler State Park 15 Ditto Landing Marina 17 Trouble Free Docks & Lifts, LLC inside back cover WILSON LAKE, TENNESSEE RIVER J’s Landing 36 Waterfront Marina & Dry Storage 36 YachtSouth 54, subscription cards
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reflections by Christy Martin, publisher
Whenever it snows, we rush to the river. The landscape is different. But the river is the same. A constant reminder that summer will come.
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