Lake Magazine February 2020

Annual Bridal Edition

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 1

Custom Home Builder | Interior & Exterior Remodels Additions | Outdoor Living Spaces | Seawalls

David Robinette | Steve Fuller Andrew McGreer 205-383-9222

lakemar tinsignatureconstruc tion.com FEBRUARY 2020

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Letter from the Editor

Staff

I’

ve never liked the term ‘hopeless romantic.’ It is a contradiction in terms, for a true romantic is ever hopeful, ever pursuing the happily-ever-after ending; the sweet proposal; the perfect wedding day – the ultimate fairytale. I fell in love with fairytales at a young age and never looked back. In my mind – in my heart – the fairytale really does come true. And I’m not the only one who thinks so.

The brides featured in this issue of Lake magazine concur. All of them have shared their sweet, hopeful stories in our pages; stories of unique and delightful meetings; charming proposals; and Lake Martin weddings that dreams are made of.

The courtship of Hannah Hussey and Lee Bush, for example, played out in part at Children’s Harbor, where they had worked together to bring joy to Magic Moments campers. When Lee proposed, the wedding venue was part of their fairytale. They married at the camp on the 20th anniversary of Magic Moments with campers joining the fun. Be a part of their fairytale on page 24.

One of my favorite fairytale weddings in this issue is the story of James Boone and Jenny Lamberth, who don’t remember a time when they didn’t know each other. They married last spring in the church where they met as children. If that one didn’t hook you, you just might really be a hopeless romantic. Personally, I fell for that one long before the proposal and wedding came about. Read their tale on page 38.

If that wasn’t enough, James’ sister Riley Frances Boone married John Harris last year as well, at the same lovely church, with a dream-come-true reception in her parents’ backyard. While the wedding was beyond beautiful, John’s proposal hit a ‘10’ on the charming scale – after all, it involved a puppy. You’ll find that story on page 44.

And still there is more – more fairytale weddings, more magic and just plain more in this issue of Lake.

Get the scoop on this year’s Russell Forest Run on page 18. The route is changing, but Russell Lands will continue to support local schools by hosting the popular 5K and 10K races through Russell Forest, followed by a fabulous after-party with the famous grits bar and live entertainment.

On page 20, we launch the plan for this year’s celebration of the most important day of all at Lake Martin: Plug Day! It is the day when the rule curve at Martin Dam shifts from winter pool to summer pool. That’s when summer fun has its beginnings at the lake, and this year, we’re celebrating with Plug Day apparel, giveaways and more. Join us at lakemagazine.life and on Facebook for the fun!

Chairman KENNETH BOONE

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Publisher STEVE BAKER

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Managing Editor BETSY ILER

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Assistant Magazine Editor AMY PASSARETTI

amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com

Art Director AUDRA SPEARS

audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com

Circulation ERIN BURTON

erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing/Advertising Director TIPPY HUNTER

tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing MARILYN HAWKINS

marilyn.hawkins@thewetumpkaherald.com

JULIE HARBIN

julie.harbin@alexcityoutlook.com

ANDY CARR

andy.carr@thewetumpkaherald.com

Digital Advertising Director KAT RAIFORD

kat.raiford@alexcityoutlook.com

Digital Advertising Coordinator ELLE FULLER

elle.fuller@alexcityoutlook.com

Contributors KENNETH BOONE JULIE HUDSON GABRIELLE JANSEN ROB MCDANIEL GREG VINSON CLIFF WILLIAMS LIZI ARBOGAST

MATT SHEPPARD JOHN THOMPSON LONNA UPTON AMY CLARK KACI JANYGA KATY SHELTON TAYLOR MCILWAIN

KATIE & ALEC PHOTOGRAPHY EMERSON LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY JESSIE BARKSDALE PHOTOGRAPHY MEGAN MULLINS PHOTOGRAPHY GRACE COBB PHOTOGRAPHY H. COLE PHOTO CO. All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of: Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor 4 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281

On the Cover Alexander City natives Jenny Lamberth and James Boone married last May, and along with four other couples, their beautiful wedding is featured in this year's bridal issue of Lake magazine.

Lake area venues and vendors helped them celebrate in grand style as they exchanged vows and look forward to long and happy lives that will bring them back to Lake Martin time and time again. Photo by Alec & Katie Photography

DESIGNS

BY TRISH - Custom Bedding - Draperies & Upholstery - Blinds & Shades

Now Serving the Auburn Area

Call Trish Ogburn for an appointment 334.315.0667 Find us on Facebook!

6400 Highway 63 South, Alexander City, AL 35010 docksunlimitedllc.com (256) 203-8400 Check out our Facebook Page: Docks Unlimited

FEBRUARY 2020

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(256) 234-6366

V (256) 487-0308

We Touch the Lives of the People You Love

The Mitchell House is an Antebellum Home perfect for events of all shapes and sizes. Its historic southern charm is located near downtown Dadeville, Alabama.

We can host all of your celebrations!

WEDDINGS C O R P O R AT E E V E N T S S O R O R I T Y & F R AT E R N I T Y E V E N T S ANNIVERSARIES BRIDAL SHOWERS BABY SHOWERS FA M I LY R E U N I O N S E N G A G E M E N T PA R T I E S REHEARSAL DINNERS THE MITCHELL HOUSE 357 West Columbus Street Dadeville, AL 256.307.1225 themitchellhouseevents@gmail.com www.mitchellhouseevents.com We accept paypal and credit card payments Find us on Facebook and Instagram

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Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy Long Term Skilled Nursing Care FEBRUARY 2020

Contents 18. RUSSELL FOREST RUN SETS A NEW COURSE Russell Lands creates a new route to raise funds for new ACSEF goals 20. CELEBRATE PLUG DAY Join Lake magazine for the Countdown to Summer Pool, starting on Plug Day − the most important day at the lake

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23. VOTE SET FOR WILLOW POINT ROADS A countywide vote will determine the future of Willow Point's roads 24. MAGIC MOMENTS MARRIAGE Hannah and Lee invite campers to their Children's Harbor wedding on Magic Moments' 20th anniversary 29. BRIDAL EXTRAVAGANZA A lake-related venue in Dadeville will host the inaurgural lake bridal show 30. NEW WATER NUPTIALS Rachel and Stephen wed in a lakeside chapel at Lake Martin's New Water Farms 34. SIMPLE ELEGANCE Lauren and Matt have an intimate family wedding in picturesque Willow Point style 38. SMALLTOWN SWEET Jenny and James celebrate their life together in the church where they met as children 44. A PERFECT FAIRYTALE Riley Frances and John gather family, friends and fun as they begin a new adventure together 48. WHITE OAK LANDING Game Day digs deliver convenience and style inside Alexander City limits on the east bank of Lake Martin

LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES:

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9. LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE TO THE LAKE 10. LAKE SCENES 11. WHERE IS LAKE? 13. LETTER TO EDITOR 14. LAKE MARTIN NEWS 16. LAKE MARTIN EVENTS 54. NATURE OF THE LAKE

58. FAB FINDS 60. LAKE PROPERTY 61. LMRA 63. CHEF'S TABLE 64. HEALTHY LIVING 66. BIG CATCHES 68. HOPPY DAYS 71. PAR FOR THE COURSE

Lake magazine also features an online, digital edition, available 24 hours a day, free of charge. This edition is perfect to share with friends and family and provides you complete access to stories, photos and advertisements from anywhere in the world with Internet access. View our digital edition today at www.lakemagazine.life.

FEBRUARY 2020

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Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing Candi Tate, Clinical Liaison

2334 Washington Street, Alexander City | 256-329-9061 | www.crownehealthcare.com

A Place To Worship Lake Martin Area Churches

WATERFRONT Church of the Living Waters Inside StillWaters, Dadeville 256-825-2990 New Hope Baptist Church 529 Peppers Road, Alexander City 256-329-2510 Church in the Pines Kowaliga Road, Kowaliga 334-857-2133

OFF WATER Equality United Methodist Church 281 AL Hwy 259, Equality 334-541-4063

OFF WATER

OFF WATER

OFF WATER

First Baptist Church Court Square, Alexander City 256-234-6351

Alex City Church of Christ 945 Tallapoosa Street, Alexander City 256-234-6494

Hillabee Baptist Church Hillabee Road, Alexander City 256-234-6798

Red Ridge United Methodist Church 8091 County Road 34, Dadeville 256-825-9820

Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 2602 Gilmer Avenue Tallassee, AL 36078 334-252-8618 (12 Miles South of Lake Martin)

First Baptist Church 178 South Tallassee Street, Dadeville 256-825-6232

St. James Episcopal Church South Central Avenue, Alexander City 256-234-4752

First United Methodist Church 310 Green Street, Alexander City 256-234-6322 First United Methodist Church West Lafayette Street, Dadeville 256-825-4404 First Presbyterian Church 371 Jefferson Street, Alexander City 256-329-0524

Lake Martin Baptist Church 9823 County Road 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-825-7434 Lake Pointe Baptist Church La 8352 Highway 50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293 Faith Temple Church 425 Franklin Street, Alexander City 256-234-6421

St John The Apostle Catholic Church 454 North Central Avenue Alexander City, Al 35010 256-234-3631 Flint Hill United Methodist Church 2858 Flint Hill Road Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-5047 Good News Baptist Church 10493 Hwy 280 Jacksons Gap, AL 36861 256-825-2555

Small Space Advertising Works.

Call Jolie Waters 256-414-3174 & ask for Lake Church Page

8 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators Sales Month

Number of sales

Average selling price

Median selling price

Days on the market

Total houses for sale

25 17 26

$626,297 $483,206 $362,685

$616,200 $465,000 $324,500

171 162 284

130 189 239

October 2019 October 2016 October 2013

Inventory/ sales ratio 4.35 7.39 11.12

The above numbers are derived from raw sales data from the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors MLS.The sales noted above are for Lake Martin waterfront residential (single-family and condominium) sales only. This information is provided courtesy of Lake Martin Realty, LLC (a Russell Lands, Inc., affiliated company).

Goat Island Wedding

Connie and David Pierce of Oxford, Mississippi, married on Goat Island last March with their friend and pastor J. Stern as officiant. A boatload of folks from Birmingham stopped by to witness the nuptials, and one of the island's residents found the bride's bouquet delicious.

Say Yes to the Dress

Lake Martin area natives Kimberly and Dan McClellan shared their July wedding day with 51 other couples at Bethesda Fountain in New York’s Central Park as part of the TLC network’s Say Yes to the Dress America series. The show airs at 8 p.m. every Saturday between now and March 7.

Weather Outlook for February February 2020 Forecast

Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the mid- to upper-50s with average lows in the mid-30s and upwards of 5 inches of precipitation in the month of February. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will fall in the normal range this month, and precipitation is expected to be slightly above normal this month.

Year to Date

Precipitation: 3.15 inches Avg. high temp.: 64.7 Avg. low temp.: 33.8 Avg. temp.: 49.3

Our Normal February Precipitation: 5.35 inches Avg. high temp.: 59.3 Information from the Avg. low temp.: 34.6 National Weather Avg. temp.: 47.0 Service.

FEBRUARY 2020

Last Month's Lake Levels Summer: 491 MSL Winter: 481 MSL Highest: 487.24 Lowest: 483.66 Lake depth is measured in reference to mean sea level. For up-to-date water levels at the lake, visit the website lakes.alabamapower.com.

Lake elevations are subject to change. Individuals who recreate below Martin Dam and those with boats and waterrelated equipment on the lake should always stay alert to changing conditions.

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Lake Scene n People & Places

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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READER SUBMISSIONS (1) StillWaters friends Lyles and Susan Griffin, Bog and Jan McCullers, Ralph and Wanda Carrigan and Tommy and Suzanne Pickens gathered at Copper's Grille to ring in the New Year. (2) Mandy Murrell says that two of Max's favorite things are Lake Martin and bubbles. (3) Kelly Baker takes a few minutes at the end of the day to watch the sun set over Lake Martin. (4) Betsy Dollar snapped this photo of the sun setting behind a stand of pines on a Lake Martin shoreline last October. (5) Amy Passaretti introduced her dad, Steve Passaretti, to the YP Polar Plunge fun at Kowaliga Restaurant. (6) Fog rises from the lake on a cool autumn morning at Smith Mountain.

10 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

Where is Lake? n People & Places

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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READER SUBMISSIONS (1) Julia and Steve Thomas took Lake to Bow Falls in Banff, Alberta, Canada. (2) Becky and Don Waller took Lake magazine to Rocky Mountain National Park just in time for the first snowfall. (3) Courtney, David and DJ Layfield visited the Washington Monument with Lake magazine during fall break. (4) Peggy and Roger Putnam of Blue Creek took Lake magazine to Annapolis, Maryland, to visit the statue of Billy, the mascot of the U.S. Naval Academy. (5) Shirley Johnson, Teresa Deloney and Charlotte and Will Denton took Lake to St. Mark's Square in Venice, Italy. (6) John and Diane Peavy took a copy of the magazine to Island of Capri, Italy. (7) Mike and Helyn Wilson of Jackson's Gap celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in Rivera Maya, Mexico, with Lake magazine.

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LAKE 11

Lake Martin’s Marine Construction Company 6732 Highway 63 South, Alexander Cit y, AL 35010 | (256) 392-5200 | www. sunrisedock sllc.com

12 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

BY JOHN THOMPSON

Dear Editor, Lake Martin Polar Plunge V has come and gone, and at each of the five years for this event, a huge crowd has gathered at Kowaliga Restaurant to enjoy great food, fun and fellowship on the shores of Lake Martin. This annual event has yielded more than $15,000 in contributions to Lake Martin Resource Association. These funds have been used entirely to add solar-lighted hazardous area buoys as part of LMRA’s “Light up Lake Martin” project. The project is to have as many as 200 lighted buoys as part of the more than 400 buoys currently installed. The lighted buoy count today is more than 90.

On behalf of LMRA and all who love Lake Martin, we want to thank Jacob Meacham and the Lake Martin Young Professionals for the hard work and dedication in making this an annual event and supporting LMRA in such a generous manner. We also want to thank Ms. Sherry Johnston (the diving nun) for donating her prize money.

This event would not be successful without the generous support of the sponsors, which this year included Lake Martin Dock Co., Russell Lands On Lake Martin, Russell Marine, Steve Robinson, Ballard Construction, Lake Martin Realty, David Willis/Raymond James Financial Services, Lake Magazine, Zajac Auto Collision and the Alex City Outlook. With the outstanding press coverage by both the Outlook and Lake magazine, the annual event has grown in popularity each year, and LMRA has benefited by adding more members that also have made financial contributions to the buoy project.

The Polar Plunge is a fun day that benefits all who love Lake Martin. Thanks to all who make it possible.

John Thompson President LMRA

Innovative Design, Stylish Ideas Computer Generated Room Designs

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FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 13

Lake Martin News Russell Marine Superstore to open this spring

BassCat fishing boats, SeaArk Boats and Can-Am will join the Russell Marine lineup when the new 150,000-square-foot outdoor supercenter opens this spring.

Renovation of the Russell Corp. new No. 1 mill started last year, and Russell Marine president Dave Commander said work is expected to be completed in the next few months.

“We still feel like it will be completed by spring − I think April,” Commander said. “There is a lot of construction going on now. They are finishing up the offices too.”

Russell Marine has experience with sister products to all three new product lines.

“BassCat is a top-of-the-line fiberglass fishing boat, and SeaArk is a top-of-the-line aluminum boat,” Commander said. “They are both owned by Correct Craft. We already worked with Correct Craft, as they also own Nautique. Can-Am is owned by BRP. We work with BRP already through Sea-Doo. We will be carrying Can-Am’s side-by-sides and ATVs.” The new product lines will help attract new clientele, he said.

“The new center will be able to serve residents on the other side of the lake,” Commander said. “We think it will draw people from Birmingham, the Coosa River lakes, Columbus, LaGrange and Atlanta. We will have a lot more exposure to sell boats, accessories and especially used boats. We will have 50,000 square feet of boats under the cover of the building.”

The first floor will also feature 20,000 square feet of retail space showcasing lake and outdoor merchandise.

“There will be a lot of apparel, accessories and marine supplies,” Commander said.

While much of the construction work to date has been on framework and supply lines, the facility will begin to look more finished in the coming weeks, as the finishes will be put in place.

“Windows are going in,” Commander said. “It will enclose the building and give you an idea of what it will look like.”

Commander said the bottom floor will be used for rigging, and construction is currently under way to install a crane and running pool for the rigging department.

“There is also a new road going in, and contractors are 14 LAKE

The new store will feature apparel,boating gear and accessories , as well as Russell Marine's boat lines

working on the parking lot,” Commander said.

The new center and rigging department in the bottom part of the building will aid in the sale of new and used boats. The new and bigger store will require more employees, he said.

“We will probably start hiring people beginning in mid-January,” Commander said. “We will be looking for service techs and retail sales. We are excited; it is going to be a beautiful store everyone can be proud of.” ~ Cliff Williams

Lake Watch launches membership drive

Lake Watch of Lake Martin encourages all members to renew their support for the organization’s water testing program during the 2020 membership drive.

“Your membership dues directly pay for our water testing supplies,” said Lake Watch Treasurer Janne Debes. “Without your dues, there would be no testing.”

For a quarter century, Lake Watch of Lake Martin has been dedicated to protecting, preserving and improving the water quality of Lake Martin and surrounding waters. Dues also help to fund educational programs and projects, postal and website expenses and the annual meeting.

Lake Watch officers are volunteers.

Annual membership dues are $15 for individuals and $25 for a family. Student memberships are $10.

Stewardship membership levels include the silver level at $50; the gold level at $100 and the platinum level at $250.

To renew or become a new member, mail your check

FEBRUARY 2020

to Lake Watch of Lake Martin, P.O. Box 72, Alexander City AL 35011. You may also renew your membership or become a new member at the Lake Watch annual meeting at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 23, at the StillWaters Residential Association Building, 1816 StillWaters Dr., Dadeville. Visit www.lakewatch.org to register for the meeting. ~ Staff Report

Russell Medical Foundation announces plans for annual gala

New York NY Dueling Pianos promises a night of music and laughter for this year’s Russell Medical Foundation Gala on March 7 at The Mill Two Eighty.

The evening of entertainment will include a seated dinner and open bar, and attendees are encouraged to dress in black and/or white in keeping with the Ebony and Ivory theme, said RMF Executive Director Tammy Jackson.

The event will benefit The Women’s Center at Russell Medical. The facility and its mammography equipment will be upgraded, Jackson said.

“The Women’s Center is the only medical facility in Alexander City that is dedicated solely to the health of women. It was the first facility in Alabama to offer digital mammography services,” she explained.

The Women’s Center is staffed with registered technologists and support personnel who are dedicated to provide personalized, quality service with accurate, rapid results, Jackson said.

NYNY Dueling Pianos’ traveling shows are requestdriven music and comedy productions featuring two pianists who engage audiences in sing-along, dance-along party style. Audience members are frequently brought up on stage for spotlight songs – such as Happy Birthday.

Sponsorships for the gala event are available by contacting Jackson at tjackson@russellmedcenter.com.

Tickets are $1,000 for a reserved table of eight and are available by calling Jackson at 256-215-7459 or Emily Williams at 256-329-7177. ~ Staff Report

Generous support puts Children's Harbor over the top

Children’s Harbor more than doubled its Giving Tuesday donation goal of $8,000 when supporters contributed $16, 710 to the nonprofit that offers services to seriously ill children and their families.

"We are so overwhelmed with gratitude that our supporters not only met our goal with their generosity but double the goal," said Haley Hoppe, marketing and communications director for the Children’s Harbor Family Center in Birmingham and the Lake Martin camp campus on state Route 63 at Kowaliga.

The monies raised will provide assistance to families that do not have reliable transportation to the hospital for care. ~ Gabrielle Jansen

FEBRUARY 2020

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Feb. 3 Horizons Unlimited: Marie Lanier

The First United Methodist Trinity campus, 3266 U.S. Highway 280, will host the winter Horizons Unlimited series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Marie Lanier will present SIFAT: Servant’s in Faith and Technology. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the semester.

Feb. 8 Grillin’ for Girls

Feb. 15 Reeltown-Liberty City Lions Club Turkey Shoot

The Reeltown-Liberty City Lions Club will host a turkey shoot at 10 a.m. at 19700 state Route 49 S, Notasulga. Each round costs $5 per person, and the winner of each round receives the majority of the total. Remaining proceeds will support the local community and Lions Club sight conservation. For more information, contact Lions Club President Daryl Thompson at 334-703-6323.

The Chambers County Sheriff will host a steak dinner for the Tallapoosa County Girls Ranch at Alfa Building in Feb. 17 Lafayette. A steak dinner plate will be $25, and all proceeds Horizons Unlimited: David Lucsko support the Girls Ranch. Tickets are limited, so be sure to The First United Methodist Church Trinity campus, 3266 reserve a spot. To purchase a ticket, call the Chambers County U.S. Highway 280, will host the winter Horizons Unlimited Sheriff’s Office at 334-276-9038 series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. or the Tallapoosa County Girls David Lucsko will present CALENDAR OF EVENTS Ranch at 256-896-4113.

Junkyards and the Automotive Past, a behind-the-scenes tour of WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN salvaged yards and derelict cars Feb. 10 across America, particularly Horizons Unlimited: in the Southwest. Membership Glenn Wills is $20 per person or $30 per The First United Methodist couple for the semester.

ChurchTrinity campus, 3266 U.S. Highway 280, will host Feb. 20 the winter Horizons Unlimited series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

The Boys and Girls Videographer Glenn Wills will Club Steak & Burger present Forgotten Alabama.

Dinner: A Hometown Membership is $20 per person or Celebration for Kids $30 per couple for the semester.

The Lake Martin Area Boys & Girls Club will hold a steak Feb. 13 and burger dinner at St. James Annual Kiwanis Steak Episcopal Church, 347 S. Central Ave in Alexander City.

Dinner and Auction The silent auction will begin The Alexander City Kiwanis at 5 p.m., and dinner will be Club will host its annual steak served from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 dinner and auction at The Mill Now in its 11th year, p.m. The guest speaker will be Two Eighty at 5:30 p.m. to honor the Russell Forest Run will Mike Goggans II, former BRHS follow a new course this year Bob Stone, an American hero. football player and Auburn footTickets are $40 per person and ball champion. Children ages 5 may be purchased at Tapley’s Appliance, Caldwell Electronics or from any Kiwanis member. to 17 are admitted free, and adults pay $10 per person.

Proceeds benefit children in Tallapoosa County. Call Louise Tapley at 256-329-9762 for information.

Feb. 22

Feb. 14-16 Daddy's Dyin' Who's Got the Will?

2nd Annual AWWA Bass Anglers Classic

The family gathers at the old farmhouse in Lowake, Texas, to bid farewell to Buford Turnover and find out how his estate will be dispersed. Alexander City Theatre II will stage this touching but hilarious comedy in two acts by Del Shores at Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $15 per person and are available at the door or at brownpapertickets.com.

This play is appropriate for ages 13 and up.

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Proceeds from this fishing tournament at Wind Creek State Park will help to provide testing kits for volunteer water monitors and will benefit educational outreach throughout the state.

Register at ogstournaments.com.

Feb. 22 Alabama Art Colony Uno Art Workshop

Alabama Art Colony will host a one-day workshop with artist Marcia Hodges to learn how to paint a cow using oils.

The workshop will be held at Emporium Wine, 128 Calhoun St. in Alexander City, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The class fee is $95 and includes lunch, paints and surfaces. Bring brushes and

FEBRUARY 2020

aprons. Proceeds will benefit the Alabama Art Colony scholarship fund.

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Feb. 23 Lake Watch Annual Meeting

The public is welcome to attend this annual update and awards event from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m at the StillWaters Residential Association Building, 1816 StillWaters Dr. Dadeville. Lance LeFleur, director at the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, will discuss the emergence of poultry production in the Middle Tallapoosa Basin just above the lake and its environmental consequences relative to water quality. Lake Watch President Eric Reutebuch will offer an overview of water monitoring results, with an update on the monitoring of local streams with significant poultry production. The meeting will be followed by a social from 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Register at lakewatch.org.

Feb. 23 Lake Martin Wedding Expo

The Mitchell House, 347 W. Columbus St. in Dadeville, is hosting a wedding expo from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. There will be plenty of wedding vendors available. Tickets are $10 each, and all proceeds benefit the Lake Martin Area United Way.

Feb. 24 Horizons Unlimited: Jody Fuller

The First United Methodist Church Trinity campus, 3266 U.S. Highway 280, will host the winter Horizons Unlimited series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Jody Fuller will present Comedian, Speaker, Writer, Solider and discuss his time as an Army medic, member of the ALabama National Guard and the Army Reserves. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the semester.

Feb. 29 Russell Forest Run

Season-Long Events

Save the date for the annual run through Russell Forest to support the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation.

Registration is $40 and is now open for this annual event that is famous for its picturesque trail run and the after-party with a grits bar and live entertainment at The Stables. The 10K race will begin at 7:45 a.m. at Russell Crossroads, and the 5K will begin at 7:55 a.m. Visit russellforestrun.com for details.

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschool-aged and younger children. In addition, the children’s library hosts board games and puzzles every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information, call Melissa Finley at 256-234-4644.

Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit

The Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony on Lake Martin exhibit is on display all year long at the Alexander City Board of Education building, located at 375 Lee St.

Real Island Supper

The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room, 1495 Real Island Rd., Equality. Everyone is welcome. Admission is $3 per adult; bring a covered dish to share. Some nights are themed, so call ahead to find out if costumes or certain types of food are in order. Call Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724 for information.

Charity Bingo at Jake’s

Play charity bingo at Jake’s Restaurant at 16 Broad St., Alexander City, at 6 p.m. every Thursday night. Cards are $1, and proceeds benefit local charities.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided NatureTours Naturalist Marianne Hudson fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl, just to mention a few. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature in the wild and the outdoor classroom. Check the calendar at RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Trivia Night at Niffer’s on the Lake

Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts trivia night at 7 p.m. Winners receive Niffer’s gift cards. First place gets $40; second place gets $25; and third place gets $15. Grab a group of friends and come out for a night of games. A bonus question is posted on the Niffer’s Facebook page at 2 p.m. Thursdays.

FEBRUARY 2020

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Russell Forest Run sets a new course STORY BY BETSY ILER

R

ussell Forest Run runners will take a new route on Feb. 29 when they hit the trail at Russell Crossroads to raise money for the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation, said Russell Lands On Lake Martin’s Director of Marketing Operations Robert Gunn.

“The new route for this year’s Russell Forest Run will use the tunnel that goes under state Route 63. We thought that would be fun,” said Gunn.

The run, now in its 11th year, includes 10K and 5K options that will begin at 7:45 a.m. and 7:55 a.m., respectively. Entry is $40 per runner/walker (entry fee increases to $50 on the day of the run) and includes the famous after-party at The Stables with live entertainment, cold beer and the grits bar for which the run is famous, as well as the awards ceremony.

Proceeds support peripheral education activities in Alexander City Schools.

ACSEF Director Jessica Sanford said the foundation initially provided seed money to outfit students with electronic devices for education. ACSEF was at the heart of the initiative to provide each student in Alexander City schools with computers. This year, ACSEF funds will address a health and safety concern on school busses.

Twenty local school busses will be retrofitted with air conditioning units, Sanford said. Three busses last year were upgraded with Cradlepoint systems that allow students to access academic assignments and materials on their schoolissued ChromeBooks.

“The new busses will have air conditioning, but it would be several years before our fleet busses are replaced with new ones. On spring and fall days, sometimes the busses are so hot that the drivers will pass out bottles of water to the students, and all the windows are open for air circulation.

This is something our students really need,” Sanford explained.

Additional monies will fund grants for teacher sto provide equipment, materials and programs that will enhance curriculum, as well as cultural field trip experiences for all students. These trips could include visits to Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, the Civil Rights Museum, the Fox Theater or other cultural destinations.

The foundation was established in 1997 to promote excellence and mobilize community support for Alexander City Schools.

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The Russell Forest Run started in 2008 as a fundraising event for ACSEF. The course was USA Track and Field certified when the race was established, and Gunn said, after 10 years, it was time to renew the USATF certification.

“This was a good time to change it up a bit and take care of the crowding at the finish line,” Gunn said.

As the race has grown, more spectators and media have congregated at the finish line to congratulate runners and snap photos. Gunn said that while the finish line audience is welcome, the volume of people has created a bit of a bottleneck for finishers headed to the awards ceremony at The Stables.

“The finish line gets kind of crowded with people waiting for runners to come in and all the cameras placed there. So the finish line this year is closer to The Stables on the former outbound side of the race,” he explained. “For 10Kers, the race is different until they get to O.Z. Hall Road.

After that, except for the finish, it’s the same course.”

The changes will give runners a different feel and will change up the scenery for repeat runners. 10Kers will be treated to a more spectacular view on Heaven Hill, and after the cannon start at Catherine’s Market, the beginning of both races is completely different from previous years’ runs.

Register for this year’s 5K or 10K race at russellforestrun. com. To learn more about ACSEF, visit acsef.net.

FEBRUARY 2020

e t a d i l o s n Co

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! e t a r b e l Ce

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REWARDS VISA Rates as % low as APR

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Heritage South Credit Union is happy to offer the PLATINUM REWARDS VISA CREDIT CARD. Now through June 2020, take advantage of 1.99% APR introductory rate. The promotional rate of 1.99% APR is valid on new HSCU VISA platinum rewards credit cards for all activity (purchases, balance transfers, and cash advances) completed during the promotional period and that rate will remain in effect on that promotional period activity through the final billing cycle of June 2020, at which point the balances on that promotional period activity will convert to the standard card rate of 9.90% APR – see credit union for details.

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The promotional rate of 1.99% APR is valid on new HSCU VISA Platinum Rewards credit cards for all activity (purchases, balance transfers, and cash advances) completed during the promotional period and that rate will remain in effect on that promotional activity through the final billing cycle of June 2020, at which point the balances on that promotional period activity will convert to the standard card rate of 9.90% APR – see FEBRUARY 2020 LAKE credit union for details. Promotional offer good from 1/1/2020 – 7/1/2020. APR = Annual Percentage Rate

19

Celebrate Plug Day The most important day on Lake Martin

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PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE & ILLUSTRATION BY AUDRA SPEARS

Arguably, the most important day at Lake Martin isn’t Lake Martin at any given time. the day the season officially opens (Memorial Day) or the And so, with much fanfare and ado, Lake and Alabama day when the highest volume of visitors is expected (July Power will lead the charge to summer pool. We'll be joined 4) or even the day when the lake’s rule curve reaches full by some of your favorite lake area vendors, retailers, trades pool at 491 feet (April 19). The day upon which all of and services. these and so many more celebrations depend every year First, we’ll warm up by giving away some cool, free takes place long before any of these dates. Often, it is a stuff, including fun Plug Day merchandise and treats from cold and dreary day. It might even be snowing. Most lake sponsors of this year’s Lake magazine Countdown to houses are still closed up at the time, and except for fishing Summer Pool with Alabama Power. There will be preview tournaments, very few brave the wind and water articles on our website at lakemagazine.life to help you to venture out onto Lake Martin on March 1, understand how the rule curve works and how the which is Plug Day. folks at Alabama Power maintain March 1 is the day when the water level. the rule curve at Martin Then, on Feb. 29, we’ll Dam changes; instead of have Lake Martin celebmaintaining the winter rity, John Thompson, pool level at 484 feet, standing by with the Alabama Power – the plug, ready to drop it licensee for Martin Dam in place so the lake – turns the focus toward can begin to fill up. As filling the lake to 491 president of Lake Martin feet, the summer pool Resource Association, level that feeds our fun.

Thompson coordinates The miracle happens Alabama Power’s annual at midnight. When the Renew Our Rivers cleanday changes from Feb. 29 up effort at Lake Martin. to March 1, the proverbial The program has removed plug drops to the bottom of more than 124 tons of debris the lake, closing winter’s drain. from our Treasured Lake, This, and none other, is the most of which had collected in most important day on Lake Martin. the back of sloughs since the lake Without Plug Day, there would formed in the 1920s. be less water for flinking (floatWe’ll celebrate with plugPresenting Sponsor ing and drinking) at Chimney shaped cupcakes, ice cream and Rock; in many cases, there balloons, and we’ll give away would be no water at all under more cool, free stuff, including the rope swings around the lake; fun Plug Day merchandise. and more than a few of Lake All through the 50-day Martin’s boat ramps and piers would be inaccessible. journey to full pool, we’ll keep you posted online with Plug Day makes the magic happen. progress reports, Lake Martin trivia, interviews and fun At Lake magazine, we believe this day calls for celebra- things to do as the water level climbs. We’ll also let you tion; so with the help of our friends at Alabama Power, know when there are extenuating circumstances along the Lake Plug Day’s presenting sponsor, we’re counting down journey, such as flood control measures that might swell the days to Lake Martin’s summer pool. the lake ahead of time, only to draw it back down in accorThe journey from Plug Day to full pool takes 50 days. dance with the rule curve later.

On each of those days, the Alabama Power operators of Check out each day’s post on Facebook, Instagram and Martin Dam aim for a target level that climbs steadily from at lakemagazine.life; enter the drawings and contests to 484 feet to 491 feet. They’ve been at this for almost 100 win cool, free stuff; and help us give Plug Day the recogniyears, so they’ve gotten pretty good at it. Barring fluctuation it deserves as the most important day on Lake Martin. tions due to drought or flood control, more times than not, Send photos of your Plug Day celebrations to Lake magathey hit the mark within just a few inches, a remarkable zine at editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. feat, as this crew manages 528 billion gallons of water at How will you celebrate Lake Plug Day?

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FEBRUARY 2020

This year's plugmaster, LMRA's John Thompson will be standing by for Lake Plug Day 2020, the most important day at Lake Martin

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 21

—MK —

Mark King’s Furniture Lake Martin’s Premium Choice for Furniture OPEN TO THE TRADE & THE PUBLIC 256.234.4275 • FREE DELIVERY 22 LAKE

Visit us on Facebook • 1425 Dadeville FEBRUARY 2020Road • Alexander City, AL

Countywide vote to set future of Willow Point roads Costs to be absorbed by residents of gated community STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

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ll Tallapoosa County voters on March 3 will be asked to vote on a constitutional amendment that, if passed, will apply only to Willow Point residents inside the gated neighborhood, said Steve Forehand, vice president and general counsel at Russell Lands.

“No one in the county outside of Willow Point would would be affected by the amendment,” Forehand explained. “The amendment would authorize Willow Point residents to organize their own road district to pay for the maintenance of Willow Point roads. That road district would not cost any other county residents anything – it only applies to Willow Point residents.”

Proposed Local Amendment Number One would allow Willow Point residents to file a petition with the probate judge to establish a road maintenance district in the development. That road maintenance district would be responsible for the upkeep of roads in the Willow Point neighborhood, including the funding for future road repairs and projects, Forehand said.

“What happened is that Willow Point was set up as a development but never had a homeowners’ association. Other developments have a homeowners’ association that maintains the roads. Russell Lands doesn’t own any of the lots in the development anymore, so it doesn’t make sense for the developer to own the roads. It’s really time for the residents to take care of that responsibility, just as it’s done in other developments,” Forehand explained.

The proposed local amendment on the March 3 ballot is the first step in a multi-step process to transfer ownership of the roads in the Willow Point neighborhood to the homeowners.

“The residents would establish a public corporation for the road district. That public corporation would have a five-person board of directors, comprised of property owners, that would oversee the collection of funds and repair of the streets. Russell Lands would have no employees on

the board of directors,” Forehand said.

Russell Lands is in the process of repaving the roads in the neighborhood and bringing them up to specifications of the county code. Willow Way East roads have been completed, and work will begin soon on roads on the west side.

“There will be brand new roads inside the entire development. If residents choose to set up an association, Russell Lands would transfer ownership of basically brand new roads that would not need maintenance for 15 to 20 years. The association would collect funds from residents for the maintenance of the roads, and when maintenance is needed in the future, there would be a fund to pay for it,” Forehand explained.

Tallapoosa County Commissioner Steve Robinson said forming a road maintenance district would be the most cost-effective option for Willow Point residents, as the annual charge per Willow Point household is expected to be around $325 per year for the upkeep of roads in the gated community.

“If the residents there elected not to have a road Russell Lands is upgrading Willow Point roads maintenance district, before the road district vote the maintenance of the roads then could fall on the county, and the gated status of the neighborhood would have to go away.

The county can only maintain public roads, not roads in a gated community. It’s a good deal for the homeowners there to assume that responsibility going forward. It costs the county about $130,000 per mile to asphalt a road. It’s a better deal for Willow Point residents to have the road district,” Robinson said.

“A vote in favor of this amendment is only going to allow Willow Point residents to vote on whether or not to set up their own road maintenance district. It’s not going to cost anybody outside of Willow Point anything. We encourage all Tallapoosa County voters to vote in favor of this amendment,” Robinson said.

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 23

Magic Moments Children's Harbor campers make lakeside wedding special

STORY BY KATY SHELTON PHOTOS BY TAYLOR MCILWAIN & H. COLE PHOTO CO.

Children's Harbor was the perfect wedding venue for these Magic Moments volunteers

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Hannah Bush Hussey’s heart is filled with all kinds of love. She loves her new husband, Lee. She loves her family and friends. And she loves the special children that made her wedding so unique.

Memorial Day weekend last year marked the 20th anniversary of Magic Moments, a wish-granting organization devoted exclusively to chronically ill children in the state of Alabama. This year, partnering with Children’s Harbor, Magic Moments also celebrated the 20th anniversary of its annual family camp on Lake Martin.

But the family camp celebration that weekend went above and beyond its milestone anniversary. The weekend held a unique activity for the Magic Moments’ children and their families, an activity that held extra magic.

That was the weekend when Hannah Bush and Lee Hussey married at Children’s Harbor.

Bush and Lee met in 2015.

“I worked with Lee’s mom in retail,” Bush said.

“We both lived in Troy at the time.”

The two started dating, and three years later something interesting happened.

On the weekend of Magic Moments’ family camp that year – just before the couple decided to get married – there was a small glitch in the camp schedule. There weren’t enough boats available to take campers out for the boat rides they so looked forward to.

Fortunately, Hussey and several of his friends happened to be on the lake for their annual Mustache Bash, a weekend of fun when their families voted on whose mustache was the best. Hussey and his friends quickly stepped up and volunteered their time and their boats to tour the camping families around the lake.

“My worlds combined that day,” Bush said.

Together, Hussey and Lee provided an opportunity for the kids to spend time on the water. Two months later, the couple got engaged.

“We were driving to the beach for Lee’s cousin’s wedding,” Bush explained, “and I was pouting about the radio station. Out of the blue, he asked me to marry him.”

While Hussey continued driving, Bush couldn’t believe what she’d just heard.

“I couldn’t say anything, and I 100-percent didn’t believe he was serious,” she said. “The next thing I knew, Lee started digging in the console of the car and pulled out a box.”

The tears started flowing, and Hussey finally believed it was real.

“The first two calls we made were to Lee’s sons, Tyler and Bryant.” Lee had already asked their permission to marry his girlfriend, and of course, they’d said yes.

When the time came to discuss the date and venue of the wedding, Hussey surprised his bride again.

“What if we had a camp wedding?” he asked.

A nine-year volunteer at Magic Moments’ family

The wedding date coincided with the 20th anniversary of Magic Moments

Festivities included the annual dance for Magic Moments campers

The couple married lakeside at God's Galley Amphitheatre

camp, Bush was thrilled with the idea.

“I wondered if Lee had found a way to read my mind,” she said.

She would get to combine her love for the Magic Moments families with her love for Lee. “It would be a dream come true,” she explained. “I couldn’t think of a more perfect way to celebrate.”

With Children’s Harbor’s and Magic Moments’ approval, the decision was made: The wedding was held during family camp as an activity for the families. The planning – and the fun – began.

“I wanted everything to be super simple,” Hussey said, describing her stress-free approach to the wedding.

Her three sisters served as bridesmaids, and Lee’s two sons, along with the bride’s brother, served as groomsmen.

The wedding was held outside in God’s Galley Amphitheatre. The bride and groom said their vows on a stage beside the water. Following the ceremony, the families enjoyed their regularly planned supper; and then, the annual dance began.

“Everybody worked super hard together to pull off the combination dance and reception,” Bush explained.

A DJ provided music while the families enjoyed dancing and wedding cake.

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Ironically, the theme for the family camp session was ‘Celebration,’ which applied to several events.

Not only was it Magic Moments’ 20th anniversary, but also it was Children’s Harbor’s 30th anniversary. The kids and their families all wore white shirts and khakis as they honored a former Magic Moments counselor, a camper’s high school graduation and the Husseys’ wedding.

“I’ve known these families for nine years,” Bush explained how special she felt surrounded by so much love.

After the dance, the bride and groom left through a sea of sparklers they’d provided the kids. They boarded Hussey’s boat and watched the campers’ faces glow as the sky exploded with fireworks that also were gifted by the newlyweds.

“It really was the perfect dream come true,” Hussey said.

Bush’s dedication to special needs kids goes beyond her connection with Children’s Harbor and Magic Moments. She received her degree in psychology and applied behavior analysis from Troy University and is pursuing the next level of certification in ABA Therapy.

Hussey owns Tyler Transport, LLC, based in Troy, Alabama.

FEBRUARY 2020

Clockwise from above: Father and daughter share a special moment before the wedding; pocket knives for the groomsmen were a nice touch; the bride's sisters attended her; campers were invited to the reception; Hussey's wedding was a dream come true.

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 27

Experience the Wedding of your Dreams!

28 LAKE

Debbie White (334) 221-2345 | FEBRUARY 2020 641 Ross Road, Camp Hill, AL 36850 | whiteacresfarms.com

Bridal Extravaganza

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Wedding venue to host inaugural show

The Mitchell House hosts weddings and other events

STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTO BY GABRIELLE JANSEN

Prospective brides could find all the services they need for a magical Lake Martin wedding this month – and help a lake area charity, as well – when the Lake Martin Area United Way hosts an inaugural bridal show at a historic lake-related venue.

Dadeville’s the Mitchell House will open its doors to brides from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 23 for a bridal extravaganza, explained LMAUW board member Paige Patterson.

“This is an event that will appeal to all ages and anyone who is connected with the planning of an upcoming wedding,” Patterson said.

“We will have vendors from every category of service for weddings, including venues; caterers; cakes; lighting; florists; videographers; musicians and DJs; carriages and transportation; jewelry; wedding planners; décor; photography; hair and makeup; wedding favors and attendants’ gifts – and of course, wedding attire.”

The venue, which recently was purchased and updated as an off-the-lake wedding venue and event center, will showcase two mock weddings for the event – one formal and one casual. In addition, vendors will set up booths throughout the Mitchell House grounds and under the tented lawn, where brides could meet with vendor representatives and make arrangements for their special days.

The first 150 brides in attendance will receive goodie bags with notions and gifts from the registered vendors, including S&H Designs jewelry, Studio West for wedding party personal training, Karen Channell StateFarm for event insurance and Pace Place at Lake Martin, Crew Lending, Cynthia Jay Photography, DJ Chris Rainz, Love Lake Martin and others.

“A bride could leave this show with her wedding services mapped out and make a donation to United Way as well,” Patterson explained.

The event will help LMAUW meet this year’s cam-

paign goal of $535,000 to support the services of 28 local public service agencies, Patterson said.

“We’re really getting close to meeting that goal, and this event could be the thing that gets us there,” she said.

Admission to the bridal show is $10 per person, payable at the door. Local and regional vendors are invited to participate. The vendor fee is $50 per booth.

Vendors also will provide items for the goodie bags.

Refreshments will be served, and specialty beverages – virgin and spiked – will be available for sampling.

“We’re excited to bring this event to the Dadeville area, which has shown so much great support for the work of United Way,” Patterson said. “The show’s venue is a beautiful historic building that is known for the Gingko tree in the front yard. It is gorgeous in the spring, and in the fall, that tree just rains gold. We thought it was perfect as a place to help brides plan their magical weddings.”

The Mitchell House was built in 1835 and was the early home of Sidney Z. Mitchell, who along with his brother Reuben, established the Alabama Power Development Company, forerunner of today’s Alabama Power, which holds the license to operate Martin Dam. Call the LMAUW office at 256-329-3600 to register as a bridal show vendor or for more information.

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 29

New Water Nuptials STORY BY KATY SHELTON PHOTOS BY GRACE COBB PHOTOGRAPHY

Rachel and Stephen Heard married at New Water Farms on Lake Martin

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FEBRUARY 2020

Matheny chose the perfect scent for her wedding day

Portrait shots were made in the vineyard

The lakeside venue offered a picturesque setting when the couple exhanged vows

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Modern elegance surrounded by lush farmland, endless skies and a sparkling lake perfectly describes Lake Martin’s New Water Farms.

“New Water was the perfect place for our wedding,” Rachel Matheny said of the special day in September when she wed Stephen Heard. “The beautiful water view, the farm with its gardens and vineyards and the open-air chapel brought my dream wedding to life.”

Matheny and Heard met attending Georgia Southern University in Statesboro. After the two dated for several years, Heard planned to propose to Matheny at Kowaliga Restaurant in January, but when he realized his plans coincided with the Lake Martin Young Professionals Polar Plunge for Lake Martin Resource Association, he quickly changed his mind. Instead, he chose Auburn’s Acre restaurant as the place to pop the question.

After Matheny and Heard became engaged, they agreed that Lake Martin was the perfect site for their wedding.

“It was the one place we all enjoy,” Matheny said.

Her parents own a lake house in Dadeville, and her mother learned about New Water Farms while searching online. The venue was only minutes from their house, and after touring the property, the decision was made.

“The farm’s setting provided the casual atmosphere we wanted,” Matheny said.

The bride’s sister served as her bridesmaid, and Heard’s brother and friend served as groomsmen.

The ceremony was held in the property’s lakeside A-frame chapel at the end of the farm’s peninsula overlooking the lake. The sun’s rays shone over the lake as the couple exchanged vows and family and friends looked on.

After the ceremony, the wedding party enjoyed a Southern meal catered by The Hotel at Auburn University in New Water’s open-beamed lodge.

Café lights draped overhead brought a magical feeling to the special celebration.

“My grandmother, Barbara Whatley, provided the flowers. She also made our wedding cake, complete with three delicious layers of vanilla pound, red velvet and strawberry. She did all this

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 31

Guests easily found their seats with the help of a posted table chart

Father and daughter enjoyed their dance in the open-beamed lodge

The bar on the porch overlooked the lake

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FEBRUARY 2020

for us in addition to perfectly altering my wedding dress,” Matheny explained, her voice filled with gratitude and love.

After the guests finished dinner, the band started playing. The sun set low in the sky as the couple shared their first dance as husband and wife.

The reception, held both inside and out, provided entertainment for adults and children alike. The kids played games, including corn hole and croquet on the lawn, while the adults danced on the lodge patio to music by the Emerald Empire.

Kimberly Roberts, New Water Farms’ event coordinator, said weddings are part of the community mission at the Lake Martin venue.

“We are a working farm, run mostly by volunteers, and we are here for the community,” Roberts explained. “We’re always ready to provide a place for gatherings, retreats and wedding celebrations. New Water is here to help people cultivate spiritual growth and rejuvenate their hearts.”

The 23-acre farm is only a 10-minute drive from U.S. Highway 280 in Dadeville. It sits on a peninsula overlooking the clear water of Sandy Creek across from Smith Mountain.

The farm’s core products include blueberries and blackberries, but volunteers also grow persimmons, figs and scuppernongs − a variety of muscadine. Bees make fresh honey, which is bottled and available for purchase, along with all of the farm’s produce. Volunteers spend countless hours making jams, preserves, syrups, salsas and pickled okra. The staff and volunteers at New Water work hard to serve the community.

“We are also about celebrating new life,” Roberts explained. “As far as a wedding venue, we provide simple elegance. For ceremonies, we offer the choice of our open-beamed chapel, the beach, the lawn or the vineyard.”

The lodge, a recently renovated building that can accommodate up to 250 guests, opens to a spacious porch with a wood-burning fireplace.

“There are so many options for couples here at New Water. Every wedding is unique and special in its own way. We are a great value for such a beautiful setting,” Roberts said.

Matheny and Heard’s wedding celebration at New Water brought a beautiful beginning to their new life together. After a sparkler sendoff, the newlyweds spent 10 days honeymooning in Ireland.

Matheny is a registered nurse at Northside Hospital, and Heard works as a supply chain analyst for Focus Brands. The couple made their home in Atlanta, Georgia, but they visit the lake area whenever they can to keep their connection to the lake strong.

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 33

Lauren and Matt Jennette take a stroll as husband and wife

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FEBRUARY 2020

Simple

Elegance

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STORY BY LONNA UPTON PHOTOS BY JESSIE BARKSDALE PHOTOGRAPHY

Lauren Spraggins and Matt Jennette met through mutual friends 10 years ago; and then, they became reacquainted in Birmingham years later. When Jennette proposed in March of 2019, they decided to get married that summer, which set Spraggins on a whirlwind course in preparation for their big day – just five months away on Friday, Aug. 16.

“I never wanted a wedding. My whole life I said I just wanted to elope. After Matt proposed, we knew we wanted our family there for our vows, but we knew we did not want something big,” she said.

As an Alexander City native, Spraggins decided the wedding had to be at Lake Martin with an outdoor ceremony. Their No. 1 goal was to have an intimate service for their families. The second goal was a party with their friends. To accomplish these objectives, Spraggins and Jennette elected to have a small wedding on Friday and a large party on Saturday. Spraggins called in her mother for assistance.

“Lauren and I quickly compiled a list of things that she wanted for her and Matt’s wedding. Lauren selected and communicated details on her own, and we worked together to make it happen. Everything went smoothly,” said Jennifer Spraggins, mother-of-the-bride.

Spraggins and Jennette decided to have only immediate family members at the wedding. They contacted Claudia Isaac, catering and events manager at Willow Point Country Club, who gave them just the help they needed.

“Claudia was great. She suggested we get married on the No. 7 tee box because it has a great view of the water and the golf course. They set up chairs for our family, and the bride’s grandparents were able to roll their wheel-

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 35

They were married during an intimate family ceremony on the No. 7 tee box at Willow Point

chairs out onto the balcony to see the ceremony. It worked out perfectly,” she said.

The wedding party was simple. Jennette’s son, Ellis, served as ring bearer, and Spraggins’ niece, Hannah, was the flower girl. The couple processed down an aisle that was strewn with white rose petals to the sound of a violin playing Stand by Me for the pastor’s and groom’s entrances; Your Song for the bride and Yellow for the recessional. Grace’s Flowers in Alexander City made the beautiful bride’s bouquet – all-white roses, hydrangea and calla lilies with olive branch greenery.

To keep the entire affair casual, the groom wore a Brooks Brothers suit with no tie.

Spraggins chose a dress from BHLDN, a bridal line by Anthropologie.

“The wedding line at BHLDN is beautiful. Mine was beaded and just exactly what I wanted. I did have a little bit of tradition – I borrowed my mom’s diamond tennis bracelet, and my godmother gave me a sixpence for my shoe,” she said.

After the ceremony, the violinist played while the family enjoyed cocktails with smoked salmon BLT bites and fried green mini tomatoes. The seated dinner featured grilled filet, twice-baked potatoes, broccolini and 36 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

Willow Point’s popular Lake Salad.

The pastry chef made the two-tiered wedding cake. The lower layer was vanilla cake with white buttercream filling and frosting while the upper layer was chocolate cake with buttercream filling and frosting.

“Being outside with the view of the lake in the background for the ceremony; and then, having dinner in the Willow Room with immediate family made it a special and personal ceremony,” Spraggins said.

Many of their friends who came for the Saturday night party stayed at the Willow Point villas, so on Saturday, the groom played golf with his friends, and the bride enjoyed a day at the pool with her friends. Transportation was provided from the villas to The Ridge clubhouse for the party that night.

The Saturday night party was casual and featured Jonathan Bloom on guitar as entertainment. Brad MacFiggen catered the food, featuring crab cakes, shrimp rolls, beef sliders, fruit and cheese plus dips and desserts.

The newlyweds traveled to Italy and Spain for their honeymoon – a spectacular finale to the celebration of their new lives together.

Congratulations were in order at the Willow Point gate

Alexander City Mayor Tommy Spraggins walked his daughter to her groom

Ellis Jennette served as ring bearer for his father's bride

The cake, made by the Willow Point pastry chef, featured a vanilla layer as well as a chocolate layer

Smalltown Sweet STORY BY KATY SHELTON PHOTOS BY KATIE & ALEC PHOTOGRAPHY

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Jenny Lamberth Boone does not remember a time when she didn’t know her husband.

Both natives of Alexander City, Jenny and James grew up together, in church, at school and on the lake. Their families have been friends for years. So when Jenny and James decided to get married, there was no question about where the event would take place. It would be held at Lake Martin.

Jenny grew up beside the lake, and James grew up in town.

“James is an outdoors guy,” Jenny said. In fact, much of James’ childhood was spent fishing with his dad and brother on Russell Pond.

Both Jenny and James hold wonderful memories of growing up on the water and in the city.

“It was smalltown-sweet,” Jenny described her childhood, as well as her wedding.

Although they grew up together in Alexander City, Jenny and James did not start dating until they reconnected as students at the University of Alabama.

The couple dated five years before James proposed. It was fall break of Jenny’s final year at the University of Virginia School of Law and James’ final year of medical school at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Auburn when the two decided to visit a small, uninhabited island on the Outer Banks.

38 LAKE

“I was not expecting James to propose that weekend because I knew he hadn’t talked to my sisters, Katie and Rosie.” The three sisters had agreed that their future husbands would not only have to ask permission from their father, but also from each other; however, James had talked to Jenny’s father. He also was prepared with his grandmother’s ring. He was ready to ask the all-important question.

“James wanted to propose to me on the beach,” Jenny explained. “He hid the ring in a shell on the island.”

The couple went for a walk that special day, and Jenny said James kept encouraging her to pick up different shells. Finally, after Jenny found several empty ones, James located the shell in which he had placed the precious ring.

He pointed to the correct shell, Jenny picked it up, and the two became engaged.

For her invitations, the bride painted a watercolor of the church in which James and she would marry, and she had it copied on the envelopes.

Before the couple’s big day, Jenny heard about the Southern tradition of burying the bourbon. As folklore holds, burying a bottle of bourbon upside down at the wedding venue exactly one month before the event will hold off the rain on the big day. Although the couple wouldn’t be in town one month before

FEBRUARY 2020

James and Jenny Boone have known each other all their lives

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 39

Clockwise from top left: The couple married in the church where they grew up together; Guests enjoyed wine, beer and cocktails at the SpringHouse reception; Family and friends attended the bride and groom; Rosie (left) and Katie (right) celebrated their sister Jenny's happiness; The City Heat played for the reception; The bride's watercolor adorned the invitations; Jenny said she wept for joy all through the ceremony; Lake time was definitely part of the weekend's plans; The bride and groom made their getaway in a vintage Cadillac.

40 LAKE

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their wedding, the bride was determined to follow tradition, and the couple’s parents’ obliged. James’ parents buried a bottle at their home on Russell Pond, where the rehearsal dinner took place, and Jenny’s parents followed suit at SpringHouse Restaurant, where the reception was held. If it rained on the wedding weekend, it wouldn’t be the parents’ fault.

When the big weekend arrived in May, Jenny came to town the day after her last law school final.

James had just completed medical school, and they both had only a few days before their graduations.

The couple’s friends and family surrounded them with love from the moment they arrived home. The bride’s parents, both dentists, provided wedding dental cleanings to family and friends the week of the big celebration. Neighbors graciously offered their houses so out-of-town family could stay nearby, and the bridesmaids would have a place to prepare.

James took his groomsmen kayaking on the Tallapoosa River at the head of Lake Martin the day of the rehearsal dinner. At the same time, Jenny and her friends stopped by Chimney Rock to take the famous plunge.

Held at the groom’s parents’ house, the rehearsal dinner was special, Jenny said. The bride-to-be wore an altered version of her mother’s wedding dress.

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The groom danced the night away with his bride under the SpringHouse tent

Artist Lila Graves live painted the reception The rain held off until the party started under the tent

“I loved my mom’s dress, but the poufy sleeves had to go.” Jenny’s sisters agreed. They did opt to keep all the original fabric, lace and buttons.

The groom’s father dug up the bourbon, and the weather held while the couple’s family and friends enjoyed dinner beside the pond. Provided by local friends, flowers from their nearby yards and gardens adorned every table. Glasses were raised and toasts were made as the guests enjoyed music from artist Jonathan Bloom.

Finally, the long-awaited day arrived. The wedding took place at St. James Episcopal Church in Alexander City, the church in which the bride and groom grew up.

Close friend and church member, Dorothy Dixon, and Susie Kelly, owner of Grace’s Flowers in Alexander City, provided arrangements for the ceremony.

But the weather threatened. A five-day storm arrived from Texas, and rain clouds loomed overhead. The wedding was set for 5:30 p.m., just before the rain was to start, but the weather outside did not dampen the couple’s spirits.

“I cried during the entire ceremony,” Jenny said, describing how happy she felt to be marrying James.

“Our church was bursting with love and joy.”

Jenny didn’t know if it was the bourbon or the prayers of their friends, but the rain stopped as soon as the ceremony ended, clearing the way for a grand exit to the bus that took the newlyweds to their party at SpringHouse at Russell Crossroads.

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“The food was amazing,” Jenny said. “We decided to let our friend Rob McDaniel run with the menu. My favorite item was the Stuffed Peppadews. Some of our friends had never even heard of pimento cheese.”

While the guests enjoyed the Southern cuisine, local artist Lila Graves worked on a live painting of the reception for the couple.

As soon as the crowd started dancing, the rain reappeared.

“I changed dresses, took off my shoes, and James and I danced on that muddy floor under the tent for the rest of the night,” she laughed.

When the time came for the couple to leave, they ended the night in style, dancing out of the reception to Love Train and into a vintage Cadillac that had been loaned to them by another generous neighbor.

Friends and family surrounded the smalltown bride and groom with love and joy on their special day, and the raindrops only served to enhance their time together. The hometown celebration served not only as the couple’s wedding, but also as a homecoming-sendoff for the two, as they headed back to the East Coast to begin their life together.

Jenny practices real estate law with Willkie Farr & Gallagher in New York City, and James is completing a pediatric residency at Good Samaritan Hospital on Long Island.

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A Perfect Fairy

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STORY BY KATY SHELTON & PHOTOS BY MEGAN MULLINS PHOTOGRAPHY

Riley Frances Boone, an Alexander City native, and John Wayne Harris Jr., from Lynchburg, Virginia, first met in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, far from their respective hometowns. After graduating from the University of Alabama, Boone headed west to spend a week with friends from college. She met Harris on a whim through mutual friends – all Southerners, living in Jackson Hole.

“He introduced me to his friend, Wyatt. I just laughed and corrected him, saying that Wyatt was actually my friend first – a friend I had met years before while attending the University of Alabama,” Boone recalled. “It was a good sign that we chose the same friends without ever having met.”

Boone and Harris talked across the miles every day for the next three months. Although she lived in the Deep South and he lived out West, they grew close.

After one month of phone calls, Harris invited Boone to Virginia to meet his family. After two months of phone calls, Boone invited Harris to Alabama to meet her family. Three months of long distance phone calls, and Boone decided to move to Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

For the next seven years, Boone and Harris grew up together.

“We were fly-fishing on the drift board one day, talking about our relationship and how special it has been to live in Jackson Hole. It dawned on us how cool it has been that we’ve grown up and continue to grow closer, having dated for the majority of our 20s,” Boone said.

Christmas of 2018, Harris handed Boone a huge box that was filled with more boxes, each smaller than the next. In the smallest box, she discovered a beautiful letter written by Harris, alongside her mother’s tiny heart-shaped ring box.

“I always thought I’d be a sobbing mess when we got engaged, but I couldn’t stop giggling. It was one of the most fun Christmas’s of all time,” Boone said, describing the moment.

Harris had arranged with Boone’s parents to give

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her the engagement ring that had been worn by several generations of brides in Boone’s family.

Boone was thrilled and honored to be the next bride to wear this ring.

Harris proposed; Boone said “yes;” and then, something else happened.

With a huge grin on his face, Harris opened the front door, and a tiny Labrador retriever wobbled into the room with a huge red bow around his neck.

“My Mom asked if he knew CPR when he mentioned that a ring and a puppy might send me over the edge,” Boone laughed.

Boone and Harris easily decided to be married in Alexander City in the church Boone attended growing up, with the reception following in the backyard at her parents’ Russell Pond home. The wedding was planned for late fall, not surprisingly, around the Alabama Crimson Tide football schedule.

“My parents and I decided it would be really cool to use all local vendors,” Boone said. “I think the wedding planning process would have been significantly more stressful had I not known everyone we worked with.”

IT was an experience she is so grateful for: the wedding planner, Connie Forehand; the florist and décor designer, Jeffery Long; the caterer, Rob McDaniel; and Deborah Blair, who made the cake.

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tale

Family and friends gathered in the garden for a photo before the reception

Mark Tucker, the musician who played Pachelbel at the wedding, taught Boone to play guitar when she was a child.

“Megan Mullins was our photographer and the only local vendor I hadn’t actually met before the planning process, but it took all of two seconds after meeting that she became a friend as well,” Boone said.

Together with her wedding planner and family, her dream became a reality.

Many of the couple’s friends from Jackson Hole and other places around the country made the trip to Alexander City for the celebration. Held beside Lake Martin at Willow Point Country Club, the bridesmaids’ luncheon and the rehearsal dinner kicked off the weekend of wedding festivities. A surprise karaoke rendition of The Devil Went Down to Georgia, performed by Harris’s nieces during the rehearsal din-

ner, filled the night with fits of laughter.

The couple decided to not see each other at all prior to the ceremony on the wedding day. Boone said one of the many special moments of the weekend took place the morning before the wedding when she took a walk through the woods with her dad.

“Dad and I took a walk through the woods that morning, laughing about movie quotes and talking about how every big event in life should be met with fresh air and room to breathe. Dad is always such a calming source for me. Fortunately, this is something John and Dad have in common,” Boone said.

The wedding took place at St. James Episcopal Church in town. Harris and his groomsmen wore navy suits with cowboy boots.

“John wasn’t wildly opinionated about many things when it came to the wedding planning process, but

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a great band and his cowboy boots were not up for debate,” Boone remembered.

The flowers, provided by Jeffery Long Designs, were in keeping with the couple’s look, which Jeffery dubbed as Garden & Gun-esque. Pheasant and duck feathers accentuated beautiful white arrangements at the wedding and reception, and the men’s boutonnieres were held together with bullet casings.

After the wedding, the reception took place at the home of the bride’s parents on Russell Pond. Café lights hung from tree branches overhead, twinkling through the darkness and reflecting off the water.

“We set up outside heaters and told everyone to dress warmly, to wear their coats,” Boone said, as the wedding day was perhaps the coldest day of the month with plummeting temperatures. Boone suggested her guests bring coats, but she hadn’t considered what kind of coat pairs well with a wedding dress.

“A friend of mine couldn’t make the wedding because she’d just had a baby. She insisted on shipping me the white fur her grandmother had given her to wear at her wedding, when it had snowed in Mobile. It was really special; not only was I warm, but, in a sense, she was there at the wedding,” Boone said.

Boone knew the weekend would go by quickly, but she was shocked at how fast it came and went. Her biggest piece of advice for anyone planning a wedding is to plan some moments throughout the weekend where the bride and groom are able to really take in what’s happening.

“There were three different times on the wedding day when I was able to really soak in that it was our wedding day. We had communion for the whole congregation at our wedding. There was a seat at the front of the church where John and I were able to look out over the congregation and really appreciate that so many of our friends and family had traveled near and far to help us celebrate,” she said.

The second moment took place when Boone and Harris ate dinner at the reception. They set up a table on the balcony overlooking the reception and again, had a moment to enjoy the food and the view, which had been discussed and planned for many months prior. Filled with gratitude, they both knew they wouldn’t be able to adequately thank everyone for all the help to make their wedding day so special.

The third and final moment occurred at the end of the night.

The couple left the wedding reception dancing, following the brass section of the band through the yard before boarding Boone’s great-grandfather’s fishing boat to cruise away into the night.

“It was the most surreal and perfect fairytale,” Boone said.

Boone is operations manager at the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce, and Harris is assistant director of outdoor pursuits at the Snake River Sporting Club. The couple lives in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, with Juanita, their Labrador retriever.

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(Clockwise from above): Lights were strung from the trees for the Russell Pond reception; Boone's bridal portrait was taken in front of the church doors; The band rocked the reception; Mr. and Mrs. Harris toast their future together; The party started with a kiss; Her bridesmaids got the first look at the bride.

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White Oak Landing floorplans include 1,800-2,800 square feet of living space

Lake Life in the City

STORY BY LONNA UPTON PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

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Appliance and countertop upgrades are standard features in the new development

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White Oak Landing is the newest development on Lake Martin that is within the city limits of Alexander City. White Oak Landing has been designed to offer buyers quality, new construction on full-sized lots with easy access to Auburn, Atlanta and Birmingham. The location inside the limits of Alexander Cityis not only optimal for summer fun, but also with Auburn only 40 minutes down the four-lane U.S. Highway 280, a home in White Oak Landing offers Tigers fans the perfect location for game days as well. Fans could enjoy the tailgate and the game; and then, come home to beautiful Lake Martin.

“The location is perfect for anyone who wants to be close to the city, or especially if they want to be on the lake but close to Auburn, and it’s priced right – between the high $500,000s to the low $800,000s.

It’s quiet. It’s peaceful – just a beautiful place,” said Damon Story, White Oak Landing listing agent with Lake Martin Realty.

The 44 waterfront lots in White Oak Landing include a minimum of 100 feet of shoreline, which allows a maximum allowable pier per Alabama Power regulations. Each homesite includes with a dock, and options for lifts and boat slips are available subject to owners’ requests.

Owners choose their lots and house plans; then, determine any upgrades to the already exceptional

quality and value. Seven house plans were selected by the development company, so all of the homes will meet specific architectural design requirements to ensure aesthetic quality. House plans have three to four bedrooms and 1,800 to 2,800 square feet of living space, including covered outdoor living spaces. And in this neighborhood, house plans are just the start for customers who decide to build in White Oak Landing.

“The house plans are just a jumping off point. We believe the homeowners’ ideas are what will make the homes special, so we customize the homes to let them have what they want,” said David Nelson with Canvasback Management.

Steve Arnberg, Vice President of Real Estate at Russell Lands on Lake Martin, said agents have found that people shopping for a lakehouse want a well-built home on a full-sized lot but often find that the price is too high. Or they might find what they want, but it is too far from their permanent homes to make weekend trips to the lake easy. He said he also has seen neighborhoods where the developer has not put enough attention into the infrastructure, or the roads leading to the neighborhood are in poor condition.

“We think buyers should not have to compromise convenience, quality and shoreline to get a home on the water. With White Oak Landing, they get convenience to Alexander City and Highway 280, plus city

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services for road maintenance within the neighborhood; city police and fire protection; plus shopping and restaurants just a few miles away,” Arnberg said.

Russell Lands on Lake Martin sold the acreage for White Oak Landing to developers Canvasback Management after a successful venture between the two companies at Cedar Point in the northwestern section of Lake Martin.

Scott Lett oversees construction in the development.

In White Oak Landing, Pella windows, quartz countertops, custom cabinets, GE appliances and a dock are included in the base price, and additional upgrades are available.

“We thought the land was beautiful with the mature timber and knew we could have homes on lots that would blend into the natural landscape. Plus, I’ve been coming to Lake Martin for 28 years, and I love this part of the lake. It stays really quiet up here,” Canvasback’s David Nelson said.

Therese Bowen, client coordinator for White Oak Landing, staged the model home, and she loves the cottage style that Canvasback Management has planned for the neighborhood.

“I’m so glad that David and Stan (Graves) are maintaining the natural beauty of the lake by leaving as many trees as possible. The homes will all fit into the landscape with colors that blend with nature. No corners are cut on the lots or the houses,” Bowen said.

The model home has a master suite on the main level, including a beautiful quartz double-vanity bath with a large shower and walk-in closet. Two additional bedroom/bath suites, also with quartz countertops, are located upstairs. All of the bedrooms have views of the lake. The built-in bunk area in the hallway loft upstairs overlooks the living area and features shiplap walls and cozy sleeping for two.

Furniture in the bedrooms and the great room, from Johnson’s Furniture in Eclectic, features simple lines and neutral colors to accentuate the casual comfort homeowners want in a lakeside retreat. Simple iron chandeliers and three-blade fans add to the ambience in the home.

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Lots include 100 feet of lake frontage

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Docks also are included in the base price package

A cozy bunkroom offers additional sleeping space The main floor master features view of the lake

Model home interiors are furnished by Johnson Furniture in Eclectic

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Quartz countertops, custom cabinets and GE appliances are standard for the kitchen. The eating area is large enough to accommodate a long farm table, and the pantry is within easy access of the preparation area. A large mudroom with a separate entrance on the side of the house allows plenty of space for wet towels to hang. A half-bath on the main floor is convenient for quick trips in from the lake.

In addition to the area above the stone fireplace, the tongue-and-groove ceiling in the great room is stained. The room opens through French doors to a large covered porch overlooking a sandy beach and the dock, just a few steps away. The porch easily accommodates a full-sized sofa and two chairs from King Furniture in Alexander City for the model, with room to spare. Under the porch, a large storage area can hold water toys and outdoor furniture.

“Besides the great location, these homes are built to utilize the space well, and the quality is excellent,” Story said.

Auburn enthusiasts who enjoy the water yet want easy access to games on the Plains and shopping in Tiger Town, need look no further than White Oak Landing – the newest development on Lake Martin with full-sized lots within Alexander City limits with city services.

FEBRUARY 2020

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Lake Martin Waterfront Market Share

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256.212.1498 LAKE 53

NATURE OF THE LAKE

BY KENNETH BOONE

54 LAKE

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Witch's Butter

This lake area fungus is used as a thickener in some Chinese recipes

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Witch's Butter is actually a fungus that feeds on another fungus

Witch’s Butter has nothing to do with either witches or butter.

This common name for the common woodland species Tremella mesenterica is a fantastical moniker for a wild, yellow “jelly fungus.”

Butter is pale yellow but looks nothing like bright yellow Witch’s Butter. Just no telling how witches got involved.

You’ve probably seen this fungus before, but you may not have paid much attention because it is small. Witch’s Butter typically grows between 1/2 to 1-1/2 inches long. It has been described as “smooth lobes” or “brain-like.” It is bright yellow to yellow-orange, gelatinous, fleshy, wavy structures often bunched together. When wet, it appears shiny or greasy. The yellow lobes are actually the fungus’ fruiting bodies.

Usually, you see Witch’s Butter on dead hardwood that still has its bark attached.

Witch’s Butter is most often found during the cooler months after an extended rain. If you go out into the woods around Lake Martin on a wet day and look at branches on the forest floor, it won’t take too long to spot some.

Very often, this fungus appears on deadwood branches still attached to trees, though people usually don’t see it until the branches snap off the tree and land on the ground.

By the way, fungi – including jelly fungus, mushrooms, yeasts and molds – are members of a separate kingdom of living organisms from either plants or animals. So it’s not proper to call Witch’s Butter or any fungi a “plant.”

While it may appear that the yellow jelly-like lobes are growing from the deadwood itself, Witch’s Butter is actually a parasite feeding on another fungus, not the wood. It feeds on a “crust fungus” or member of the Peniophora genus that is usually hidden beneath the bark of the dead branch.

Witch’s Butter is found all around the world, though it is concentrated in the eastern half of North America and in

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Western Europe. It is also found in Asia, Australia, Africa and Central and South Americas.

In Eastern Europe, folklore has it that if you find Witch’s Butter on the entrance to your house or your gate, it is a sign that you’ve been put under a witch’s spell. And if you poke straight pins into the Witch’s Butter, you can break free of the spell by allowing all the inner juices of the fungus to leak out. Like many old wives’ tales, it would be hard to prove or disprove that sticking fungi with a pen relieves you from a malicious spell, but one thing is certain: It can’t be good for the Witch’s Butter.

Other common names for this organism include Yellow Brain Fungus, Yellow Trembler and Golden Jelly Fungus.

The name Witch’s Butter is also used for several other species besides Tremella mesenterica, including a yellow-look alike that lives on conifer trees – and a brown jelly fungus called Exidia glandulosa.

Witch’s Butter grows on the dead branches of deciduous trees during wet weather, but when there’s dry weather, the fungus deflates into a hard, flattened crust and turns a dark orange color. When the weather turns wet again, Witch’s Butter can rehydrate and regain its bright yellow, fleshly look. This process is repeatable many times.

This fungus is edible, but flavorless. It is used in China to thicken soup and could be consumed in a survival situation, but it’s probably not on any mushroom hunter’s list.

Witch’s Butter is currently being researched and has shone some potential to be used in medicines that stimulate the human immune system, work against diabetes and inflammation, fight allergies and have other uses. In China, there have been several medical patents filed that use Witch’s Butter to prevent cancer.

Some information for this article came from Alabama Mushroom Society, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Messiah College and inaturalist.org.

FEBRUARY 2020

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81 Old Still Road, Dadeville • $799,000 Beds: 4 • Baths: 4.5 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Haley McKelvey 256.749.8353 LakeMartinRealty.com

8164 Deer Trail, Equality • $1,490,000 Beds: 6 • Baths: 5.5 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Ashley Chancellor 334.202.9017 LakeMartinRealty.com

Lot 5 White Oak Landing, Jackson’s Gap • $645,000 Beds: 3 • Baths: 3.5 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 LakeMartinRealty.com

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Don't Make Your Realtor Cry LAKE PROPERTY

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BY AMY CLARK

ant to see your Realtor cry like a baby? Here are several scenarios that will do just that:

Ask to see homes that are waaay out of your approved price range.

It is so exciting to experience other people’s gorgeous homes – to look inside their big master bathrooms (is that a bidet?!); to feel the thick granite on their kitchen counters; to sit down on their new gray sectional sofas; to pet their darling doggies – but it just ain’t cool if your intention is not to purchase it. While your Realtor loves you and respects you, please don’t put her/him in the position to have to explain to you that your pocketbook simply cannot afford the megamansion and that viewing it would be deemed rude.

Go to an Open House without telling your Realtor.

This is a major no-no. Let’s say you and your Realtor have been viewing homes for weeks. You’ve built up a nice rapport; then, your Realtor has to go out of town on family business. Unbeknownst to your Realtor, that same weekend an Open House sign goes up in the neighborhood that you really want to be in. The right thing to do is to call your Realtor and tell him/her about the open house and that you want to attend. Your Realtor could then call the Open House Realtor to explain that you will be attending and that you are their client. I guarantee that the Open House Realtor will greatly appreciate this courtesy call, as will your Realtor.

Make a large purchase while in escrow.

her own. I certainly don’t recommend it, of course, but that home is just that – theirs.

FSBOs can be a different sort of folk. Maybe their Mama and Daddy sold a home without an agent in 1980 and did just fine. So they decided to do the same thing and save that commission. It can be scary when FSBOs delve into the world of appraisals, title searches, termite inspections, home inspections, radon inspections, mold inspections, closing costs, earnest money and contracts. Remember, the FSBO works for the FSBO, not the purchaser.

Don’t go it alone with a FSBO; call your Realtor to act as your liaison. Your Realtor can call the FSBO to request him/ her to show the home to you, to work on your behalf. Most FSBOs are happy to allow your Realtor to show you their homes. Remember, they want to sell, too.

These are a few of the ways to make your Realtor cry like a baby. Don’t do any of these. Okay?

Amy Clark is the broker of Selling Lake Martin, a boutique real estate company specializing in Lake Martin property sales. Amy and her Realtor/ Homebuilder husband Todd make their home on Lake Martin.

Contact her at lakemartinamyclark@gmail.com.

This one not only will make your Realtor cry, but also, there probably would be some gnashing of teeth involved and maybe a bad word or two. I know you need furniture for your new home. I know you really want that new SUV to haul all your new stuff to your new home. I know you need a new boat for your new lake home, but don’t. Don’t make large purchases while in escrow.

Doing so could jeopardize your loan; and therefore, the purchase of your new home. If you absolutely must make a large purchase, wait until after closing.

Call on your Great Uncle “Fred” to give you real estate advice because he sold real estate in 1968 for a spell.

You have no idea how many times this comes up.

Your Realtor has to keep his/her credentials current and fresh through rigorous continuing education requirements and Code of Ethics® training. Your Realtor has to adhere to local laws, state laws and national laws, and this is only the tip of the iceberg. Take real estate advice only from your fiduciary Realtor, not Uncle Fred. While well-meaning, Uncle Fred could really jeopardize your negotiating position and cause you to miss out on the home of your dreams.

Scout around on your own and look inside a for-sale-by-owner without your Realtor.

Now this one really makes my stomach hurt. There is nothing wrong with anyone trying to sell a home on his or 60 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

Before 1972, LMRA advocated for standardized water levels at the lake

50 Years of Protecting Lake Martin's Future

A

s we ring in 2020 and welcome a LMRA will kick off this new decade new decade, Lake Martin Resource with a motivated and passionate board of Association will celebrate its 50th directors. Combining new, talented leaderanniversary. In the early years, it was all ship with experienced veterans will enable about property protection and establishing LMRA to tackle the many challenges prepredictable water levels. The limited numsented by this continued growth. ber of cabins at that time were mostly used LMRA will focus on partnering with on weekends and located on dirt roads in other organizations to face these challenges remote areas. Prior to 1972, there were no by: established water levels and the rule curve n Developing educational programs that LMRA that now regulates water levels did not focus on boating courtesy and etiquette, as

BY JOHN THOMPSON exist. well as Alabama boating laws; At least for the present time, these are no n Educating boaters about protecting our longer critical issues. LMRA can now firmly focus on shorelines for future generations to enjoy; boating safety, cleaning shorelines and preserving Lake n Supporting the passage of a boating bill that will be Martin for the enjoyment of future generations. There introduced in the next Legislative session and includes a are many opportunities for an organization like LMRA ‘No Wake’ proximity rule. with a 50-year history of working for the betterment n We also will continue to be a part in the relicensing of Lake Martin to continue to be successful in finding of Harris Dam, as the long process continues over the ways to resolve issues, seek solutions and lead efforts in next few years, while maintaining a vigilance against battling threats, regardless of the sources. any threat to Lake Martin water quality or quantity.

After organizing many shoreline cleanups over the Fifty years and still working for the betterment of past 15 years, resulting in more than 250,000 pounds of Lake Martin. trash being removed from our Treasured Lake, and partnering with Russell Lands and Alabama Power to create John Thompson is president of Lake Martin Resource our “Treasured Mile” program, the shoreline of Lake Association. Learn more at lmra.info.

Martin has never been cleaner or more pristine.

Our buoy maintenance program, which has evolved over the years, has been expertly organized by Rendell Clark and has been described as the best in the state of Alabama. Numerous representatives from other lake associations in Alabama have visited Lake Martin to get a first-hand view of the program from Clark and his General Dentistry team of volunteers.

In the September 2019 issue of Lake magazine, Managing Editor Betsy Iler wrote a great article describing the critical issues that are brought about by increased recreational boating on Lake Martin. This is a must-read article for all lake lovers who want to be a part of solving these issues.

Dr. George W. Hardy

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Roasted Mushrooms, Carolina Gold Rice and Confit Egg Yolk Serves 4 Mushrooms 2pounds assorted cleaned mushrooms (such as oyster, shiitake and cremini) 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 cloves fresh minced garlic Pinch of salt and fresh ground black pepper Sherry vinegar In a medium sauté pan over medium heat, melt butter; then, add thyme and garlic. Allow to cook for 10-15 seconds before adding mushrooms, salt and pepper. Toss to coat mushrooms with butter; then, place in a 150-degree oven for 5 to 8 minutes or just enough time for the mushrooms to become tender but not shrink.

Confit Egg Yolk 2 cups duck fat (Catherine’s Market has this in-stock from time to time but can also order for you) or peanut oil 4 eggs (as fresh as possible; farm eggs with a blazing orange yolk are best) Heat duck fat or oil in a small, shallow oven-proof pan in a 150-degree oven for 20 minutes. Separate whites from yolks, saving whites for banana pudding meringue. Remove duck fat/oil from oven and place yolks in hot fat/oil for 1 minute. Yolks should be delicate and still runny.

Rice 1 cup rice (such as Carolina Gold) 2 cups hot chicken stock 1 bay leaf 1/2 sweet onion, small diced 1 tablespoon unsalted butter In a medium-sized pot with lid, melt butter; then, sweat onion until translucent.

Add rice and bay leaf. Stir rice until all grains have a buttery sheen; then, add hot chicken stock and bring to a boil. Season with a pinch of salt and fresh pepper before covering and reducing to low heat.

Place 1/4 cup of rice in the bottom of four shallow bowls, making a small dimple in the center of the rice for the egg. Place confit yolk on top of the rice; then, spoon mushrooms around edges of yolk. Drizzle with sherry vinegar and serve.

CHEF’S TABLE

BY ROB MCDANIEL

Rob McDaniel, executive chef and general manager at SpringHouse Restaurant, earned a bachelor's degree in restaurant and hotel management from Auburn University and is a graduate of the New England Culinary Institute.

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iving your life with purpose – on purpose – will be of a person. The World Health Organization defines health the theme or focus as we journey together through as a complete state of physical, mental and social wellbe2020. Did you know that there are 1,440 minutes in ing, not just simply the absence of disease. Healthy living a day to spend however we choose? Each day encompasses physical, emotional, social, when we wake, we experience life. Think mental, spiritual, financial, intellectual, occuback as a child, having so much energy that pational and environmental wellness. you could not wait to get the day going and Living your life with purpose means living seeing the day come to an end seemed sad. up to one’s potential in all facets of life. This Oh, those nights of sleeping so hard and getmay help us realize that we are works of art, ting up the next day to do it all over again. unique and beautiful in our own ways. If we The teen years and early 20s bring a lot all are unique – a one-and-only with no one of moments we do not want to end and, of else exactly alike – then, how can we have course, many lessons learned. In the later 20s imperfections? and 30s, life becomes a reality with responsiThere can be no comparison of a one-of-abilities in full swing. The 40s usher in much kind. We are beautiful in our own individual more awareness and perhaps more worry of ways. Let’s take this a step further and think HEALTHY LIVING about admiring someone else without doubtachieving, reaching goals and getting through

BY JULIE HUDSON the busy day. It gets very hard to take the ing our own beauty or devaluing the way we time to appreciate precious life moments. By think of ourselves. our 50s, we discover this great realization: This is life, and It is human nature to compare ourselves to others; howeach moment has value. ever, this can bring about discontent, dissatisfaction, bitWe can certainly see the connection in this sequence terness, resentment and even depression. The life journey when talking about healthy living. As I have said before, is about improving one’s self, and life satisfaction can be healthy living by definition comprises attitudes and values achieved by looking at our yesteryear or yesterday selves.

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Life satisfaction has nothing to do with others; it is all about personal reflection, asking, “Am I better today than I was yesterday?”

What everyone else is doing does not matter. What matters the most is what you are doing to fulfill your journey.

Happiness multiplies when we don’t compare ourselves to other people.

More often than not, we begin a new year with a declaration similar to, “Today, I am going to change (whatever).” It always begins with good intentions. We reflect on our habits, lives and actions and pick some thing(s) we are determined to adjust or improve upon. Some of us even stick to our goals and reach them, which is fantastic.

While resolutions might offer a very good personal challenge, I also think they can result in an excuse to beat ourselves up. For some reason, and I quite often feel this myself, starting a new year brings enthusiasm for change, reflection, renewal, cleanout and hope.

I’d like to propose some simple resolutions that could be started any time and that are reachable for all; could increase possibilities, a sense of purpose and feelings of confidence.

Of course, you could raise your own personal bar, but if you occasionally miss the mark, please don’t use it as a way to belittle yourself; rather, go back to the list. The journey of 1,000 miles begins with one step.

Take a step toward living a life with purpose.

Try This n Wake and start your day with two big glasses of water. You dehydrated overnight, and this one little change will improve your health. n Eat a piece of fruit with your breakfast.

The fiber, nutrition and sweetness will add greater satiation to your meal. n Squeeze in 10 minutes of extra walking daily. Parking farther away from the entry counts toward these minutes. n For lunch and dinner, add two vegetables to your meal. Eat them plain. You’ll get used to the flavors and maybe start enjoying them. Yes, salads, fresh, steamed or frozen vegetables all count. n Smile at the first person you see each day. If it’s someone in your household, it will make your home more pleasant. If it’s a neighbor or stranger, you’ll both feel better as well. n Choose an inspirational quote or scripture and think about it throughout the day.

Julie Hudson is a dietician at Lake Martin Wellness Center in Dadeville.

RHODES BROTHERS/KEY BUILDERS

RESTORATIONS | ADDITIONS | KITCHENS | OUTDOOR KITCHENS | BATHS | METAL BUILDINGS REMODELING | ICF CONSTRUCTION | RESIDENTIAL | COMMERCIAL | CONCRETE SEAWALLS

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KEY BUILDERS

Builder John Rhodes - 256-675-0217 Custom Home Chris Key- 256-749-0179  rhodesbrothersinc.net chriskeybuilding@yahoo.com General Contractor johnrhodes1@charter.net FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 65

Illustration by Kenneth Boone

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ne of the most intriguing aspects of the American Creature: Any soft plastic bait with appendages that will fishing culture is the talk. If you know an angler not fit into the category of worm, lizard, swimbait (shad) or well enough, you’ve probably heard this strange crawfish. chatter that could be mistaken for another language. It Deadsticking: Surprise! ‘Deadsticking’ has a good sounds familiar to the non-angler only because it’s English. fishing-based explanation on Wikipedia. This is a term used Yes, the fishing talk around here is English, but most certo describe the art of doing nothing when presenting a bait. tainly a different dialect; one possibly derived from too Just a hook with no weight on an artificial bait. The angler much down time on the water. Here are some terms you casts it out and lets the bait sink to the bottom … very … may have heard among us fish heads that undoubtedly very slowly. This is a technique akin to watching paint dry, seemed peculiar: but it’s one of the most effective techniques in bass fishing.

Work a Bait: Some might picture Geppetto carving Anyone, from the first time angler to the pro, could enjoy away at a fish-catching gem in his spare time after finishing success with deadsticking. up with Pinocchio. In fact, ‘work the bait’ refers to how the Soaking a Bait: This term could draw a chuckle from a angler retrieves an artificial bait to give it life in the water. non-angler. How else would you catch a fish? In fact, ‘soakWalk the Dog: Sounds strange coming from an angler ing a bait’ refers to leaving the bait (usually an artificial who’s confined to a space smaller than 24 square feet, but worm, jig or creature), in one place on the bottom for an when an angler says he’s walked the dog, it unusually and uncomfortably long time waitmeans he fished a bait (like a topwater) by ing on a fish to take it. It works well, somemoving it side to side. times, if the fish aren’t very active.

Skipping Docks/Skipping Bushes: These Milk Run: This is one of my favorites may sound like competitions in an episode of because my Dad used to say it before we took Redneck Games. ‘Skipping’ in fishing refers to off in a local Lake Martin tourney. There is no how an angler gets a bait underneath an object milk involved; just an angler describing how that is hanging over the water. Fish love to he hit all of his best locations in a series to hide in the shade, and skipping is a technique glean what fish he could from those favorite to get a bait into those areas. It does have a fishing holes before time’s up. high degree of difficulty, so it really should be Toad, Hammer, Pig, Giant, Beast, included in the Games.

Slaunch, Donkey, Bigs, Stud, Mossback: All Jig: Not a new dance move from Fortnite or of these terms refer to a big fish. These, or any a woodworking tool; this is jargon for one of number of terms, could be belted out unconBIG CATCHES the fish-catching-est (new word?) baits ever for trollably as an angler hauls in an exceptionally

BY GREG VINSON bass anglers. A jig is a molded lead head on a large fish. hook. Some are very small for panfish. Jigs for Flotilla: Lake Martin is no stranger to this bass are much larger with big hooks and are known assasone. For non-anglers, a flotilla would indicate a party on the sins for big bass. They usually have a ‘skirt.’ See the next water, involving several boats. For anglers, a flotilla occurs word ... when word gets out about a really good fishing spot.

Skirt: Ha! I just Googled ‘skirt’ on my personal device Pattern: This is the method by which anglers choose to and got pages and pages of clothing sites. Hearing grown locate and catch fish. men talking about the color of their skirts might conjure up Bent Pole Pattern: The precursor to a flotilla. The ‘bent an interesting visual. It gets even more confusing when one pole pattern’ refers to an angler that watches other anglers pants-wearing angler says something like ‘that’s a pretty from afar to figure out where and how they are catching skirt’ to another. And talk of how an angler trimmed his fish. skirt could surely draw strange looks. Skirts are actually the Bath Tub: A slow bass boat. group of silicone or rubber strands that hang from a jig, a Graphing: Looking for fish on electronic fish finders. spinnerbait or a buzzbait. The colors of the skirts are a comNumbers: GPS locations that might come from graphing bination of the colors of strands that make it up. Fishing or might indicate a good fishing spot in general. skirts are key components that, for some reason, appeal to Stick, Stud, Hammer: This is actually a compliment. larger fish.

These terms are used to describe a very good angler.

Blades: Not as one would presume coming from an Seined a Spot: No commercial netting, only small dip angler. Could be referring to the knife used to clean a catch, nets involved here at best. This means an angler caught but more than likely, this term refers to the spinners on a everything from a particular location. It often is used by a spinnerbait (a jig with spinners); also, referring to a metal tournament angler who couldn’t get to his spot, referring to piece on a buzzbait that makes it buzz on the surface. another angler who was on the bent pole pattern.

Burning a Spinnerbait: Please don’t picture any fire For the non-angler it might be wise to print this article here. A spinnerbait is like a jig, but it has spinners (blades). as a cheat-sheet for conversations with fishing friends. At This term refers to a type of retrieve where the angler reels a minimum, dropping one of these terms or phrases at the a spinnerbait as fast as he can without the blades losing right time could raise a non-angler’s presumed fishing IQ at contact with the water, which is referred to as ‘blowing least 20 points around the water cooler. it out,’ meaning breaking the surface, which makes it quit spinning correctly.

Greg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on the Swimming a Jig: This is like burning a spinnerbait but Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour. He lives in Wetumpka with a jig. and grew up fishing on Lake Martin.

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HOME BREW Craft beer MVPs make beer in bathtubs and blow up bottles in kitchens to drink for free

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umbly nestled within the array of beer-brand- craft itself and in the surrounding environment. ed chaos at any craft beer festival or outlet is There is a beer for every situation and a style just every local brewery’s beginning – the homeright for every palate. brewers’ section. It’s also my favorite part of any For example, envision yourself floating around craft festival. the dock on a mat while the ripple from passing The homebrewers are the visionaries, the inno- boats nudges you toward the seawall, and you vators and the bearded dudes that just want to think, “Wow, I love IPAs, but they’re not really share what they’ve created with their friends and what I’m looking for to complement this slow community. And the really exciting part of it all is sippin’ lake life. I need a nice, cold beer with that the first steps in the advent of the refreshing citrus notes but without the next great Alabama brewery could be high ABV.” happening around Lake Martin right So you go to work in the kitchen now. or the bathtub or the garage until – Homebrewers are the real MVPs Boom! You’ve created the ultimate of the craft beer world. They’ve made ‘float beer,’ a 4-percent pale ale with beer in their bathtubs, in garages and the fruity, fresh and tantalizing taste in buckets. They’ve worked for hours of citrus and mosaic hops. Your new to finish their masterpieces and fill best friend at the lake. bottles – if only to have those bottles OK, that’s an over-simplified explode all over their kitchens. Bottle version. In reality, brewing is an bombs they call them (YouTube it). extremely scientific process that If you’re thinking what I’m thinkrequires as much work and dedication ing, ladies, it’s, “How many times as it does passion and collaboration.

HOPPY DAYS do you think you can blow beer all For a moment, imagine what it’s like

BY KACI JANYGA over my kitchen walls and my granite to walk a mile in a brewer’s Converse countertops before I have a legitimate shoes. A day in production is like meltdown?” watching the most intense episode of Iron Chef Well, I’d like to think that question got you have ever seen, except everyone is wearing answered in 2008 when the first Alabama craft plaid and has a beard. brewery – Good People – opened its doors in It looks more like this: With just a 30-second Birmingham. window to pour in the bittering hops to match Since Good People paved that road, Alabama your recipe, you realize the hop oil is all the way has become home to more than 30 craft breweracross the production floor. You have to question ies, including Red Clay in Opelika; Fairhope whether or not you can make it because you only down by the bay; and my personal, unbiased wear skinny jeans, so running is super difficult. favorite and proud home, Cahaba Brewing.

Sacrificing the jeans, you run across the floor Starting with those sparks of creativity and pasand by some miracle make it back in the nick of sion for innovation, the founders of these craft time. The beer is saved, and the ripped jeans are breweries are firemen, lawyers, engineers and testament that your dedication is astounding. average Joes that thrive on collaboration, possiIn all seriousness, brewing is fun. Being part of bilities and the pursuit of flavorful beer. a growing local industry, collaborating and creatThey are responsible for this amazing craft ing with amazingly talented folks that are considscene, a new liveliness in our communities and ered family – it’s super fun. the revival of numerous neighborhoods and citSo what are you waiting for? Get out there! Try ies, all because they looked into their cups and some of your local beers, whether you find youraspired to do more, have fun and, well, drink for self chatting up Scott at the SpringHouse bar over free. that awesome pork chop on the menu or catchNow with craft breweries at large, we can ing up on “sign girl’s” latest shenanigans while enjoy styles like boysenberry-dreamsicle-sourpicking up a six-pack at Lake Martin Trading IPAs and Belgian Quadruples aged on French Company, local craft is all around Lake Martin.

Oak Malbec barrels. Literally anything is posSupport the community and jump in! sible.

Want a beer named after your MeMaw? Go for Kaci Janyga keeps her childhood connection to it. It could be so dang good, you just might smack Lake Martin alive through her job with Cahaba said MeMaw clean across the face.

Brewing Company. She’s a huge craft beer enthuBrewers are faced with the unique challenge of siast and believes the best way to understand coming up with dozens, even hundreds, of beer craft is to experience it. styles every year and putting them to the test in their kettles. They find their inspiration in the

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Improve your game in 2020

S

pring is right around the corner – really.

I would assume that, like most golfers, you internalize some sort of New Year’s resolution for your golf game or your physical well being. I use the word ‘internalize’ because I feel that most people rarely act on their intentions. Life has a tendency to get in the way.

Research has shown for instance, that in some restaurants, the sale of hamburgers and seemingly unhealthy foods drops during the months of January and February, while leaner, healthier options see increased sales. Typically, these trends only last for two months, with the crowd favorite double cheeseburger regaining the PAR for the COURSE top spot over the healthier

BY MATT SHEPPARD options.

Since most of us have great intentions for bettering ourselves in the New Year, let’s look at a few simple improvements that could help you improve your golf game this year.

If you have access to a practice range at your course, then obviously, hitting balls makes for a great warm up.

Most golfers run to the range, dump the balls and start whacking away. Some stretch, but few actually warm up. A proper warm up includes dynamic stretching in the pre-game routine. The typical stretches that most do on the driving range are simply stretching the muscles, which is important, but not the best for preparing your body to swing a golf club. Dynamic stretches include movements and stretching that are proven to add explosiveness and boost overall sports performance. I encour-

age you to visit www.mytpi.com to learn more about a warm up plan that can help you play better golf.

Ice cold beer and golf go hand-in-hand with a large majority of weekend warriors on the golf course. While I promise you I am not frowning upon the consumption of beer on the course, I do think that with a small bit of awareness, you could improve your hydration while on the links. Experts say that you should drink half of your body weight (pounds) in ounces each day. They say that starting in the morning with 25 percent of your intake is a great way to provide your body with the proper hydration it deserves after sleep. During a night’s sleep, the body actually becomes dehydrated, so start the day off right with water. If you are playing a round of golf, try to include about half of your daily water intake while on the course; then, mix in some of those frosty cold beers if you like.

Fuel for us is food. Who doesn’t love a great hamburger or hot dog at the turn? While playing a round of golf, we burn calories, even if we are riding in the cart.

To fuel your body better, try eating something lean during the middle of the round, like peanuts or a granola bar. These quick bites can help satisfy your hunger cravings and actually improve your energy level. Save that burger and fries for after the round.

Last but not least, I would like to encourage you all to focus more of your pre-round warm ups and/or practice on your short games. On an average, 50 percent of your strokes in any given round are on or around the green. Instead of pounding 10 drivers prior to heading to the first tee, try to focus more on chipping, pitching and putting. Just a little bit of effort will go a long way.

Here is to better golf in 2020!

Matt Sheppard is the PGA Director of Golf at Willow Point Golf and Country Club.

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Legend

63

22

280

To Sylacauga

22

Alexander City

Public Boat Ramps 18

9

Churches

Camp ASCCA

Flint Hill Church

Camps & Parks

16

Power lines U.S. Highways

280

3

22

County Roads Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek State Park

Pleasant Grove Church

11

COOSA COUNTY

Alex City Boat Ramp

Mt. Zion Church

259 9

9

128

Russell Farms Baptist Church 63

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Friendship Church

15 20

New Hope Church

Liberty Church

14 Willow Point

24

6

10

Equality

Paces Point Boat Ramp

63

Camp Alamisco

11

Kowaliga Boat Landing

21 The Ridge

55

4

Seman

Camp Kiwanis

1 12

Church in The Pines

23

2

The Amp Ko w

ali

17

ga

Ba

y

80

9

Central

90

Union

ELMORE COUNTY Union Church

Red Hill 63

229

Eclectic

Tallassee

19 Kent

72 LAKE

Union Landing

Children’s Harbor

Trillium

34

FEBRUARY 2020

Timbergut Landing

Lake Martin Alabama

Horseshoe Bend National Park

Jaybird Landing

Marinas

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

11. Kowaliga Marina 256-397-1210

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 22. The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 33. River North Marina 256-397-1500

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

49

Jacksons Gap

42. Real Island Marina 256-397-1200

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

280

53. Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Bethel Church

20

62. Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Dadeville

3. Harbor Pointe Marina 7 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853 www.harborpointe.net

25 57

280

24

Camp Hill

Smith Landing

2. Lakeside Marina at Bay Pines 9 256-825-0999

3455 Bay Pine Rd., Jackson's Gap, AL 36861

Pleasant Ridge Church

Restaurants & Venues

13

6. SpringHouse 10 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters

5

8

4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 19 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Building Supply 20 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 21 4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Loop, Alex City, AL 35010 4. Dark Insurance 22 256-234-5026

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 www.darkinsuranceagency.com . Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 23 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 24 . Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847 21322 U.S. Hwy 280, Dadeville, AL 36853 . The Tiny Rabbit 25 256-307-1998 220 N. Broadnax, Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches 26 Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293 8352 Hwy. 50, Dadeville, AL 36853

12 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Walnut Hill

50

4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 18 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

6. Catherine’s Market 11 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Stillwaters

7

82. Lakeside Marina 256-825-9286

7361 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

17 5. Lake Martin Mini Mall 334.857.3900

7995 Kowaliga Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024

26

50

13 Lake Martin Pizza 256-373-3337

5042 Hwy 49, Dadeville, AL 36853 14 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt & Flatbread Pizza 256-444-8793 smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com

Business & Shopping

49

Advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map for as little as $25. Contact our Marketing Department at 256-234-4281 or marketing@ alexcityoutlook.com for more information.

15 Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075 970 Hwy. 63 South, Alex City, AL 35010 16 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481 5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, AL 35010

Reeltown

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 73

Lake Magazine Distribution ALEXANDER CITY Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Q Campus of CACC Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart Emporium Wine Grace’s Flowers Hampton Inn Holley’s Home Furnishings Hometown Pharmacy Jackson Drugs Jake’s JR’s Sports Bar & Grill Koon’s Korner Koon’s Korner II Lake Martin Building Supply Lakewinds Golf Club Larry’s General Store Longleaf Antiques Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina

River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc Touchless Boat Covers The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot Valley Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

CHELSEA Winn-Dixie The Ditsy Daisy Boutique CHILDERSBURG Piggly Wiggly DADEVILLE Bay Pine Marina Blue Creek Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foshee's Boat Doc Homeplate Restaurant

Harbor Pointe Marina Lakay’s Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Community Hospital Lakeshore Discount Pharmacy Lakeside Marina Niffer's At The Lake Oskar's Cafe Payne Furniture Pearson’s Place Poplar Dawgs Public Library Pug's Place PNC Bank Renfroes Root 49 at Lake Martin Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 The Tiny Rabbit USAmeribank

ECLECTIC Children’s Harbor Cotton’s BBQ Eclectic Do-It Center Johnson’s Furniture Kowaliga Marina Lake Martin Dock Lake Martin Mini Mall Nail’s Convenience Store Peoples Bank

EQUALITY

INVERNESS Winn-Dixie Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Arena Tree Top Family Adventure

KELLYTON Five Star Plantation MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market

RED HILL Citgo SYLACAUGA Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly

TALLASSEE Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce Tallassee Automotive Tallassee Community Library The Tallassee Tribune

WALNUT HILL Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA The Wetumpka Herald A limited number of magazines are placed at these locations.

To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

2018 Top Ten Landau Dealer Manitou Dealer

256.215.FISH (3474) 2190 Cherokee Road Alex City, AL

www.alexcitymarine.com

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Lake Martin Business and Service Directory

COACH KRAFT

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

UPHOLSTERY Complete Marine Upholstery!

■

■ Floors ■ Carpets Bimini Tops ■ Custom Seats ■ Mooring Covers

Patrick Mason 334-283-6759 676 Dean Circle • Tallassee, AL www.coachkraft.com

IN-HOME CARE SERVICES

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Residential | Commercial | Interior | Exterior

Our goal is to keep our clients as active as possible in their own homes to promote overall health and well being.

With our personally tailored care plans, you will receive the individual care you need with the dignity and respect you deserve.

256-307-4061 columbus-auburn.certapro.com

Homemaking... Personal Care... Companionship

Lake Martin innovation Center

Mike&Kris DobbsOwners1550OpelikaRoadSuite6Box294�| Auburn,AL36830 EachCertaProPainters ® businessis independently ownedandoperated.

Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.

175 aLiant Parkway • aLexander City, aL

(256) 414-6090

HANDRAILS | GUARDRAILS POWDER COAT | SAND BLASTING WELDED FENCE | CUSTOM ART STAIRS GATES | I-BEAMS STEEL POSTS STAINLESS STEEL CABLE RAILING

LAKE

334-332-3435 or 334-329-4635

Relax. Enjoy. Lake Martin.

Call to order your subscription 256-234-4281

MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2020

LAKE 75

Our Advertisers n To Join, Call 256.234.4281 A&M Plumbing........................................................... 76

Lake Martin Signature Construction........................ 3

Alex City Guide Service............................................ 8

Lamberth & Lamberth............................................... 57

Alex City Marine....................................................... 74

Mark King's Furniture................................................ 22

Beyond Home Care................................................. 75

Moore Wealth Management..................................... 79

Blue Creek Iron Works........................................... 75

New Water Farms...................................................... 12

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation........................................8

Prime Management....................................................... 6

C & T Electric...................................................................... 13

Pursell Farms................................................................ 33

CertaPro Painters..................................................... 75

Renaissance Electronics............................................... 8

Coach Kraft Upholstery.......................................... 75

Rhodes Construction................................................. 65

Custom Docks........................................................... 57

Rhonda Jaye, Lake Martin Realty............................. 77

Davco........................................................................... 75

Russell Lands.........................................43, 53, 58 & 70

Designs by Trish........................................................... 5

Russell Medical.............................................................. 2

Docks Unlimited......................................................... 5

Satterfield........................................................................ 5

First Baptist Church Alexander City.................................8

Security Pest Control.................................................. 8

First Community Mortgage...................................... 6

State Farm, Harold Cochran.................................... 75

George Hardy D.M.D............................................... 61

State Farm, Karen Channell...................................... 75

Heritage South Credit Union................................. 19

Sunrise Dock................................................................ 12

Hodges Vineyard........................................................ 59

Sylacauga Marble Festival.......................................... 17

Holley’s Home Furnishings..................................... 80

Temple Medical Center............................................... 8

Homeology, Denise Booth...................................... 13

The Mitchell House...................................................... 6

Jerry Purcell, Lake Martin Realty........................... 57

TowBoat US................................................................. 76

Kowaliga Whole Health........................................... 75

Walmart........................................................................ 75

Lake Martin Dock..................................................... 15

Wedowee Marine....................................................... 62

Lake Martin Realty..............................................53, 70

White Acres................................................................. 28

LAKE MARTIN'S PROFESSIONAL TOWING AND SALVAGE COMPANY We refloat sunken boats.

Call today for a free quote!

•On water towing •Battery jumps •Fuel delivery •Soft ungrounding

256-307-1313

www.towboatuslakemartin.net 76 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

174 Sailboat Rd

Lake Martin, AL

Get more bang for your buck! This 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home offers a great room, kitchen, laundry, half bath and master on the main and 2 bedrooms and bath upstairs with second family room. Full length lakeside covered porch, open deck with hot tub, outdoor cooking area and concrete parking pad for your RV! Great views, good water and boat ramp. On a leased lot! Save money on taxes and interest and pay the monthly lease of $393.27, about the same as a HOA fee. Or if you prefer buy the lot from AL Power Company. Estimated value $170,000. Don't miss this golden opportunity! Call us today to set up your showing.

$388,900

LakeMartinTeam.com

Rhonda Jaye

Allison J. Ladson

256.749.8681

256.750.0711 Re Pric du e ced

194 Ridge Crest Road Jacksons Gap, AL Lake Martin 4BR 2.5BA $735,000

160 Hawks Point Dadeville, AL Lake Martin 4BR 2.5BA $810,000 FEBRUARY 2020

49 Bald Cypress East Eclectic, AL Lake Martin 4BR 5BA $2,100,000 LAKE 77

78 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

~ Lana Del Ray

"When someone else's happiness is your happiness, that is love."

Photo by Megan Mullins Photography

Parting Shot

Mr. and Mrs. John Harris slip away from the reception in a boat that belonged to the bride's grandfather.

79 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020

80 LAKE

FEBRUARY 2020