Lake Martin Living July 2020 by Tallapoosa Publishers

Lake Martin Living People, events and culture in the Lake Region

30 Years of Jazz Fest Southern Crapemrytles Everything's Art in the Park July 2020

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

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Lake Martin Living 3

From the Editor’s Desk

e have much to look forward to this month, as a number of previously postponed springtime events are scheduled to go forward in the next few weeks, and they’ll be joined by more fun happenings in the area. Sun Festival will kick things off in Alexander City the first week of August. This celebration of summer will launch just in time for a last hurrah before school resumes, so why not blow it out big? Turn to page 16 for an abbreviated schedule. A more complete list of events has been inserted into this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine for your convenience. Rise and shine early to get in on the medallion hunt and maybe even solve the riddle and win some money. Put on the dog – or at least dress up the dog (cat, goldfish, llama …) you have – for the Dawg-Gawn Good Parade. Take the kids to build their own sundaes; climb around in some really big trucks; and head to the splashplex at the sportplex to cool off under a waterspout. Be there for bingo, bake a dessert and rock the night away at Strand Sessions – and then again at Jazz Fest, which hits the Strand Park stage on Friday, Aug. 7. Jazz Fest will offer another stellar lineup for this year’s concert series, the 30th anniversary of this free two-day music event that features three great bands in Alexander City on Friday night and another three bands at Lake Martin Amphitheater on Saturday night. Turn to page 18 for details. Then, hop over to Dadeville and check out the fun downtown. Stop in any Thursday evening this month or next for Music on the Square. Visit Raining Dogs Gallery, an exhibit venue that rivals any that you might find in New Orleans or Atlanta, and stroll around the recently renovated square to pop in at Zazu’s Verandah, an event space with a vintage/industrial vibe. Zazu’s Verandah just recently opened on the square, and Amy Passaretti gives you a guided tour on page 10. And next month, don’t miss the inaugural Everything’s Art in the Park event at Pennington Park in Dadeville. Not your ordinary art show, this new day in the park is focused on art – making it, looking at and maybe even buying some of it. Get the details on page 15, and we’ll see you there. Turn to the calendar pages, starting on page 40, for more exciting summer fun.

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor

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Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Contributors Kenneth Boone Dave Jennings Cliff Williams Lacey Howell Amy Passaretti Santana Wood Susan Foy Caleb Turrentine Carmen Rodgers Shane Harris David Ballard Alejandro Menéndez-Vega Emmalee Langley Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Rachel McCollough Marilyn Hawkins Julie Harbin Andy Carr Liz Holland Digital Services Crissy Posey Elle Fuller Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com

Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

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Jazz Fest 2020, like a number of other festivals and celebration across the nation, was postponed in June and rescheduled for Aug. 7 and 8 in Strand Park in Alexander City and at the Lake Martin Amphitheater. Last year's concert featured six great bands, including Empire Strikes Brass, featured on this month's cover. Photo by Kenneth Boone

FEATURES 15. EVERYTHING'S ART IN THE PARK Inaugural art show set for next month in Pennington Park 16. A WEEK LIKE NO OTHER Come on out for a weeklong celebration of summer 18. 30 YEARS OF JAZZ Sweet Lizzy Project will headline this year's 30th concert series in Strand Park 22. SOUTHERN CRAPEMYRTLE The classic elegance of a misunderstood landscape favorite

IN EVERY ISSUE 8. AROUND THE AREA 10. BUSINESS MATTERS 29. MEDICAL NEWS 30. MONEY MATTERS 32. FROM THE TEE 34. OH SNAP! 40. LAKE REGION EVENTS 50. CULTURE SHOCK

The ruffled edges of a pink crapemyrtle are an oh-somisunderstood garden favorite.

Musclecar Museum Reopens The Wellborn Musclecar Museum held its grand reopening Saturday, June 20th, with the Meeting of the Musclecars. Some 100 cars of all makes and models were on display as car enthusiasts came from across the country to show off their rides and check out the new exhibits. The museum underwent renovations during the two-month closure for COVID-19. Cars inside the building were rearranged, and new ones were rotated in from the personal collection of museum owner Tim Wellborn. ~ Amy Passaretti

CACC names new acting president Alabama Community College System Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker last month announceed the Jeff Lynn is now the acting president at Central Alabama Community College. Lynn will lead CACC following the departure of former CACC president Dr. Susan Burrow. According to an ACCS press release, Lynn will serve in the role of acting president until a president is named following the completion of a search. Lynn has more than 20 years of workforce and economic development experience across several Southeastern states. He brought his distinctive skill set to ACCS in 2016 where

he currently serves as the vice chancellor for aerospace and aviation. Prior to his role at ACCS, Lynn served as the executive director of Workforce Development Programs at LED FastStart for Louisiana Economic Development. “Mr. Lynn’s experience in both the private sector and in higher education gives him a unique perspective that is advantageous as our colleges strive to meet community and industry needs,” Baker said in the release. “Jeff ’s enthusiasm for helping to improve the lives of Alabama’s community college students combined with his practical experience is a perfect fit to lead the CACC family during this time of transition.” ~ Staff report

Jeff Lynn

ACCS Vice Chancellor Jeff Lynn will act as president at CACC until a new president is named.

New LMAEDA director to start next month More than a year after the unexpected death of Don McClellan, the board of LMAEDA selected Chad Odom, executive director of Wharton Economic Development Corporation in Texas, to lead efforts of industry recruitment in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties. Odom brings more than five years of experience as an executive director at economic development authorities and extensive other business experience to Tallapoosa County. 8 Lake Martin Living

“Chad in addition to having a very good resume, there is something about him,” David Sturdivant said. “He seems to be a go-getter. I was very impressed with him. I feel like we got a good guy.” Odom starts Aug. 10 to develop how to possibly restructure the staffing of LMAEDA. ~ Cliff Williams

AROUND THE AREA

Wetumpka: A City of Natural Beauty Gets an HGTV Makeover Above: Townspeople gathered downtown and cheered at the announcement that Wetumpka has been chosen as Erin and Ben Napiers' takeover project; Right: The Napiers announced their choice for the 2021 feature series in a video chat during their television show.

HGTV to feature Wetumpka series HGTV’s Erin and Ben Napier this month announced they will makeover the City of Wetumpka in their 2021 series, Home Town Takeover. Filming is expected to begin this fall, as the biggest single renovation project in HGTV’s history. The Napiers have played a large part in Laurel, Mississippi’s, revitalization and economic comeback by renovating homes and businesses, making the town more attractive and appealing to newcomers. After they upgraded a home on a Laurel street, others fixed up the remaining buildings, and whole neighborhoods were

transformed, Erin Napier said in a July 2 broadcast saluting the couple’s home town. With Home Town Takeover, the Napiers hope to bring about similar changes in Wetumpka, an Elmore County community that last year was ravaged by a tornado. “Our city has come a long way. You guys are going to be the catalyst that takes us all the way,” Wetumpka Mayor Jerry Willis told the Napiers during a video chat in which the couple announced Wetumpka as their choice for the new series. ~ Betsy Iler

Lake Martin Living 9

Zazu's Verandah Event center now open on the Square in Dadeville

ick and Mitzy Hidding are staples in the Everything’s Art community and believe deeply in Dadeville’s growth. When the couple realized that the nonprofit organization needed more space to host art classes, they began knocking on downtown doors; bought a building and opened Zazu’s Verandah. “The goal is to be an event space and to host art classes,” said Mitzy Hidding. “Everything’s Art was meeting at the library and had one class at Raining Dogs Studio, but feedback was that it was too crowded.” They realized they needed their own location and saw an opportunity to enhance the community at the same time with the addition of an affordable event venue. The 1914 building needed a makeover, which the Hiddings handled mostly on their own, except for electrical, plumbing and HVAC issues. The building actually has two sides to it, and the wall separating them is not structural. Right now, one half is being used for storage, but the couple hopes to find someone to open a coffee shop on the square in the other half. The old heart pine flooring was re-done professionally and was fully restored. Hidding also took on the task of tearing down the pegboard that covered the walls up to about 8 feet high, as the building had been a hardware store in the past. Since the material was still in great shape, she was able to haul it off and repurpose it to a good home. “We were real conscientious of not taking things to the dump and re-using it or offering it to others,” said Hidding. The remaining walls were horsehair plaster, which took Hidding six days to remove using a spade and the occasional hammer and chisel. “Mitzy was pulling it off the walls, while I was hauling it out the door,” said Rick. 10 Lake Martin Living

STORY & PHOTOS BY AMY PASSARETTI

The process uncovered the building’s original brick, with a few stubborn pieces of plaster left attached. “We decided to turn it into artwork,” said Hidding. “We got the idea from an artist friend, Janie Wright, and splashed paint on it to look like it’s been years of paint layers.” The finished product is the perfect complement to a creative studio that could inspire artists. There was an old air conditioning unit hanging from the ceiling that made for a unique element. The couple debated keeping it there but realized it was impractical. They added a new heating/cooling system and changed out fluorescent lights to LED ones. “We painted the ceilings haint blue, which emits Southern hospitality and gives the feeling of a front porch and gathering space,” said Hidding. Now that the downtown road construction is complete,

BUSINESS MATTERS

All For Art

Above: Zazu's Verandah provides plenty of room for art classes; Right: Rick and Mitzy Hidding are among those leading the charge for art and creativity in Dadeville.

the couple refreshed the exterior, repaired the awning and added the same blue paint. The couple also built out an interior wall with plywood, with the help of Hidding’s father. “My dad came up for one afternoon with his table saw to rip all the plywood,” said Hidding. “He did about 60 sheets, and we ended up buying about 60 more to finish the Lake Martin Living 11

job.” They created three bathrooms – one ADA compliant – a catering kitchen, an office and a storage area. The front section of Zazu’s Verandah offers two cozy seating areas that are ideal for discussions and meetings. There also are foldable farm tables and chairs to seat 80 people, The chairs can be rearranged or stacked and stored, depending on the needs of the various events that could take place there. One 2,400-square-foot half of the building is used in a collaborative effort among Pennington Park, Everything’s Art and Raining Dogs Studio. “The vision is to host weddings at Pennington Park and allow receptions to be held here,” said Hidding. While there is a kitchen on site, it’s strictly for catering and includes a hot box, prep tables, household-sized stove and oven, fridge, freezer and a three-compartment sink. No cooking is allowed on site per the facility’s category 2 food license. The Hiddings also have an ABC license to provide beer and wine at events. In addition, they have set up a stereo sound system on site with speakers and extra power and outlets throughout the space. Zazu’s only will be open for events and will not maintain regular public hours. “We envisioned an affordable rental space,” said For the Children

Top: The Hiddings aim to foster the artistic talents of local children; Left: They furnished the space with comfortable, fun seating arrangements and used rustic materials for the walls and finishes.

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Hidding. Another component to the venue will be extending art classes that Everything’s Art has implemented within the Tallapoosa County schools. Though this project is on hold pending the school system’s plans for the upcoming year, the tentative plan is to provide opportunities for students to continue strengthening their skills. “The kids are really focused on art, and their talents are coming out,” said Hidding. “We really want to expand on that and keep the enthusiasm going.” Local artists have reached out and offered to teach the classes. Classes won’t just be for kids though, as some will be geared toward adults only, and the topics will vary. Everything’s Art members will receive 10 percent off class prices, and a scholarship-type program is in the works, so no one will be excluded, despite financial situations. Zazu’s Verandah was named after Hidding’s rescue parrot with the same name. The Rainbow Lorikeet was Australian, which is why the couple used the British spelling of verandah with the added ‘h.’ “She was very Open for Events animated and just Top Right: Zazu's Verandah warmed my heart,” said can be rented for class Hidding. “She is forever reunions, birthday parties, imprinted on our souls.” wedding receptions, For more information, meetings and more; Bottom visit zazusverandah.com. Right: The space includes a

catering kitchen.

Lake Martin Living 13

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Everything's Art in the Park Inaugural event to be held at Pennington Park

adeville will launch a new art festival next month in Pennington Park with an array of arts activities for kids and unique works of art available for sale in the first ever Everything’s Art in the Park, said event coordinator Rick Hidding. “We’re very focused on the art, and this is more of an art show,” Hidding explained. “It’s not a family hour or a children’s show, but there will be a children’s corner with some fun and interesting art activities for the kids.” Ferst Readers will host origami demonstrations and hands-on paper folding for children, as one of the activities at the Aug. 15 event, Hidding said. “We also have an artist that ran the art department for schools in New Orleans who will be doing print making with four different forms – inking up the forms and putting the paper down and rolling it to make the print. We’ll also have someone from Auburn that will do cookie decorations. These look fantastic. They are little works of art. The cookies will be two for $1,” he said. Admission to the show and many of the activities will be free. Ferst Readers will accept donations to the program that puts books in the hands of children ages 0 to 5 years. Hidding said there will be intriguing exhibits and works for sale for adults as well, including two woodworking artists. “One of these guys makes kitchen utensils and serving pieces that are really impressive,” Hidding said. “There’s a yarn artist, too. This will be her first show. She’s been

doing it for years, but this is the first time she will be showing. It’s interesting. Some of it is woven.” A variety of painters will take part, displaying everything from acrylic to watercolor, Hidding said. “We’ve also got a guy who carves golf balls. College logos, pets, faces – all kinds of things,” he added. Four food trucks at the event will offer hot dogs, hamburgers, barbecue, waffle chicken sandwiches and tacos. O Town Ice Cream also will be there, he said. The event will open at 10 a.m. with arts activities until 4 p.m. At 5 p.m. a concert in the park will begin, and there will be music until 7 p.m. with Tina Marie Hosey singing Patsy Cline hits. Booths will be set up about 20 feet apart for social distancing, Art Show Focus and most booths will be in the Above: Jeffrey shade, as the park features a large Smith will show his pecan grove. Dadeville Police cheese boards, officers will set up a traffic plan, platters and other and there will be security on site wooden utensils; from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The local fire Below: Jennifer department also will be present. Wallace will show Food truck spots and booth and sell her works. rentals are available for $30, Hidding said. Artists should be prepared to submit photographs prior to acceptance for the show. Interested exhibitors should contact Hidding at rick@everythingsart.org or call him at 256-307-2224.

Lake Martin Living 15

A Week Like No Other

STORY BY BETSY ILER

et ready to celebrate summer: Sun Festival opens Friday, July 31, with 26 events in Alexander City and the Lake Martin area, including music, activities, contests and a weeklong medallion hunt for a daily prize of $200. That means stocking up on sunblock, choosing your events and activities and registering early for those with limited participation. Presented by District 2 Tallapoosa County Commissioner Steve Robinson and coordinated by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, this year’s schedule offers new events, like an axe throwing tournament at Nub Chuckers, as well as traditional favorites, such as the Dawg-Gawn Good Parade and the KidsFest Build Your Own Sundae at Carlisle’s. The nine-day celebration culminates with the final Jazz Fest concert at the Lake Martin Amphitheater on Saturday, Aug. 8. The schedule kicks off at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads with Friday on the Green at 6:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, coolers and a picnic – even the family dog on a leash – and spend the evening visiting with family 16 Lake Martin Living

and friends, enjoying the music and the summer night. In town, the inaugural axe-throwing tournament at 6 p.m. includes dinner for participating teams of two and prize packages for the first place and runner-up teams. Registration starts at 6 p.m. and is $50 per two-person team. The competition heats up at 7 p.m. New last year – and a tremendous hit – was the Tykes in Trucks event downtown. This free event puts the little tykes in some very big trucks – fire trucks, tow trucks, tractors, road machinery and more. There will be music, games for the kids and a dunking booth. Downtown merchants will offer food, drinks and treats. The first medallion hunt, sponsored by Wind Creek Casino and Hotel, will begin at 6 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 3. Listen for the early morning riddle on The Front Porch/ Kowaliga Country 97.5. Solve the riddle to learn the location of the hidden medallion to win $200. The hunt begins anew every day through Friday with a new riddle; a new hiding place for the medallion; and another $200 prize.

KidsFest activities this year include plenty of opportunities to get wet, get creative and get healthy. There will be water slides, splashplex fun, magicians, sundaes and new exercise routines. Bring the kids, the grandkids, their cousins and friends for activities that are designed to delight and amaze. Add an extra challenge to your usual round of golf on Tuesday, Aug. 4, by playing the second nine in the dark. The $45 entry fee per person includes greens fees and cart, dinner and glow-inthe-dark supplies for this four-person scramble at Lakewinds Golf Course. Everyone is invited to Bingo at at 1 p.m. at The Mill Two Eighty on Wednesday, Aug. 5; then, return to the The Mill Two Eighty at 6 p.m. for Faith Night, a worship experience featuring local praise teams and free hamburgers and hot dogs. Celebrate America’s heroes on Thursday, Aug. 6, at Bill Nichols Veterans Summer's Best in Alexander City Home in the morning, Clockwise from Facing Page: and Thursday evening, The concert crowd begins to pick a partner for the gather for the Friday night Jazz cornhole tournament. Fest event; A decorated pie looks as good as it tastes in the Register

early at alexandercitychamber.com. The registration fee is $50 per twoperson team and includes dinner for two during the tournament. And Thursday evening, bring a picnic supper and a cool beverage to Strand Park for the Strand Session concert, featuring Tony Brook. Visit the Lake Martin Young Professionals Facebook page for details. Bring your blue ribbon dessert to the Lake Martin Innovation Center on Friday morning to see how it stacks up against the best cooks in town. Or just come taste the sweet treats and vote for the People’s Choice dessert. Sun Festival rolls right into Jazz Fest at Strand Park on Friday night. This free concert series has rocked the town for 30 years. In addition to jazz, blues and Southern rock, don’t miss the decorated tables and dancing in the street at Alexander City’s signature concert event. Jazz Fest goes to the lake on Saturday with a second free concert series at Lake Martin Amphitheater. Three great bands for dancing the night away – until next year.

baking contest; Build Your Own Sundae is a popular event for children; All kinds of pets are eligible for entry in the DawgGawn Good Parade; Finding the medallion wins $200.

Lake Martin Living 17

30 Years of Jazz

Sweet Lizzy Project Photo by Alejandro Menéndez-Vega

or the first time, the Benjamin Russell High School Band will open this year’s Jazz Fest concert in Strand Park on Friday, Aug. 7, with selections from this year’s show, Rhapsody on a Bad Romance. The band’s 2020 repertoire includes music by Queen, Bruno Mars, George Gershwin, Lady Gaga and others. “We wanted to showcase our own. We’re very proud of the Benjamin Russell Pride Band, and we wanted to let them shine,” said Ed Collari, CEO and president of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, which coordinates the free twoday concert series. This year’s concert, originally scheduled for June, was postponed and rescheduled for the second weekend in August 18 Lake Martin Living

due to the coronavirus pandemic. Collari urged concertgoers to take responsibility for their own safety and that of others in regards to health and welfare during the event. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the music series that began when Frohsin’s Department Store treated the community to an outdoor concert to celebrate its 100th birthday. Following the Pride of BRHS, Tragic City will take the mid-stage on Friday night, followed by headliner Sweet Lizzy Project, a Cuban band featuring lead singer Lisset Diaz. An instrumental sextet from Birmingham, Tragic City blends elements of funk, jazz, hip-hop and rock to create a sound uniquely its own. The band includes Will Cash,

Benjamin High School Pride Band

Alexander City's signature event turns 30 STORY BY BETSY ILER Tragic City Band

Tommy Bowen, Desmond Sykes, Martin Castor, CJ Griffith and Michael Laton and has played alongside The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Tim Lefebvre, Flow Tribe and Miss Mo and others, promising great chemistry and never a dull moment. Check out their Facebook page at Tragic City Band to preview their progressive music. Then, hold on for the intoxicating Latino flair of Sweet Lizzy Project, a band known for its high-energy performances, featuring all original songs penned in English and appealing to a wide range of ages and genre. SLP has toured regularly with The Mavericks and was featured on the PBS Emmy Award-winning television series, Bluegrass Underground. Originating in Cuba, the group

turned an apartment into a sound music studio to record music because no other option existed. Their second album, Technicolor, was recently completed in Nashville. Friday night gets started at 6 p.m. in Strand Park, but the music continues Saturday evening at Lake Martin Amphitheater with three more bands to top off a great weekend at Alex City Jazz Fest. Visit alexcityjazzfest.com for Saturday’s lineup, T-shirt sales and more. Sponsors for Jazz Fest 2020 include Russell Lands On Lake Martin, Russell Medical, Lake Martin Dock Company, Lee Marketing Group, Ralph Frohsin, Lake Broadcasting, Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., C&T Electric, Gunn Homes and Land, Lake Martin Painting and MainStreet Alexander City. Lake Martin Living 19

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Sout hern Crapemyrtle B

y the time July and the summer time heat rolls in, less fanfare is given to flowering plants. Maybe it is because attention is on summer recreation activities, the vegetable garden harvest or mowing the lawn, or maybe it’s just too hot to notice and care. Yes, there are plants – like lantana, daylilies, hydrangeas and many bedding plants – that offer color and interest when nothing else tends to bloom during the hot days of summer. But there is one special plant in particular that takes centerstage and puts on a great show of vibrant colors. Of course, I am referring to the crapemyrtle, which becomes the star of summer. The crapemyrtle is indeed a popular and a favorite landscape plant throughout the South. It has been called the lilac of the South. Introduced to North America, the crapemyrtle is native to China and Korea. A University of Arkansas Extension publication states that crapemyrtles were introduced to the United States in the 1790s when George Washington grew them at Mount Vernon. Around that same timeframe, they were commercially introduced in Charleston, South Carolina, where French botanist André Michaux established a nursery to grow the plants he was gathering in the Southeastern states. The crapemyrtle soon became a

Lake Martin Living 23

Garden Talk

staple of the large plantations and Southern mid-June through September. landscapes. Next to the flowers, the second best The crapemyrtle is an adaptable and ornamental attributes of the crapemyrtle tolerant plant; it can be found from North are its unique trunk, shape and fall color. Alabama to the Gulf Coast. It grows best Crapemyrtles are commonly multi-trunked in moist, well-drained soils and requires and vase-shaped, but they sometimes are full sun. Amazingly, it can thrive in very trained to a single trunk. A canopy of foliage poor and rocky soil and can withstand covers the top half of the plant, while the Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heat and droughts. Thus, one will bottom half remains leafless, revealing the find crapemyrtles growing in almost every beautiful bark. landscape setting. The smooth bark exfoliates, flaking off in One very important fact that most people irregular patches to reveal various shades of do not realize is that crapemyrtles vary cinnamon brown to light gray. The leaves are greatly in size, ranging from as small as 18 a glossy medium green, turning yellow, redinches to more than 30 feet tall. Since the orange or red in the fall. 1970s, many of the most popular crapemyrtle Crapemyrtles must be grown in full sun for Shane Harris selections are hybrids that were created at satisfactory flowering and to reduce disease the U.S. National Arboretum. Today, there problems. Many issues of crapemyrtles not are more than 75 cultivars. Some can be used in hanging flowering are due to shade and not enough sunlight. baskets; whereas, most are grown as large shrubs or small While the crapemyrtle will tolerate a wide range of soil trees. The smaller cultivars often are used as hedges, conditions, it does not thrive in a wet location. screens or are grown en masse. They are often planted in Give crapemyrtles ample room to grow. A common groups, underplanted with ground covers and summer mistake is planting them too close to buildings. Most perennials. When planted in this manner, crapemyrtles large varieties have an upright vase shape and a mature offer a grand display of color throughout the summer spread of 10 feet to 15 feet wide. months. Remember that crapemyrtles are small trees, but they Naturally, the large colorful flowers are the most often are inexcusably pruned back and forced to grow prominent and prized features of the crapemyrtle. They more like shrubs. Choose either smaller varieties or plant are formed in large panicles that range from 6 inches them away from obstacles that would interfere with their to 8 inches in length and 3 inches to 5 inches in width. growth. The petals have a crinkled appearance with aÂ crĂŞpeSadly, despite such a prized and wonderful landscape like texture similar to crepe paper, hence the name plant, the crapemyrtle is by far the most abused and crapemyrtle. Flower color ranges from white to various misunderstood plant. Severe annual pruning is not shades of pink, purple and red. The blooming season for recommended, as it destroys the natural character of the this area can be long-lasting for a flowering plant, from plant. 24 Lake Martin Living

The Stars of Summer

Previous Pages: Crapemyrtles come in a range of colors,including this lovely lavender variety; Facing Page: Acoma is a semi-dwarf cultivar that only grows 10 feet high; Blooms create a mass of ruffles; Crapemyrtles grow in a vase shape and display bark in shades of cinnamon and gray.

The undying belief that crapemyrtles only bloom on new growth and require pruning is completely false. Yes, new growth does produce more flowers than old growth, but that does not justify “crape murder.” This ridiculous practice not only produces ugly stumps, but also, it promotes unwanted sucker growth at the base of the trunk and creates skinny, whip-like shoots and sprouts, giving it an overall out-of-balance shape. These new, spindly branches are too weak to hold up the heavy flowers and often bend over to the ground. The annual excessive pruning is not an excuse for poor planning, selection and placement; however, very light pruning to maintain shape and correct problems each winter is an acceptable horticultural recommendation. It is even a good idea to summer deadhead the spent flowers, as it will trigger a second flower show. Crapemyrtles do have a few pest problems that homeowners and landscapers should keep an eye out for. Aphids, Japanese beetles, ambrosia bark beetles and the recently introduced crapemyrtle bark scale can be a nuisance. Plant diseases, such as powdery mildew, black spot, sooty mold, tip blight, leaf spot and root rot, can create bigger headaches, but these are preventable and controllable with fungicides. Again, crapemyrtles are very

durable and seem to always survive pesky attacks. The annual summertime show of all the shades of colors of crapemyrtles is much anticipated. Regardless if they are seen growing along the street, the lakefront, the driveway or prominently in the yard, summer is the crapemyrtle’s time to shine. What bright and shining stars they are. ~ Shane Harris is the Tallapoosa County Extension Coordinator for the Alabama Cooperative Extension. For additional help with home and garden information, contact your local county Extension office or visit www.aces.edu.

Lake Martin Living 25

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334-265-9206 jim@jimdebardlaw.com No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal service performed by other lawyers.

28 Lake Martin Living

Anderson named 2020 Florence Nightingale honoree of the year at Russell Medical

his year has definitely been full of submitted by colleagues describing Misty’s challenges and change, particularly leadership traits. within the healthcare environment. “Misty demonstrates outstanding leadership At the nucleus of the hospital’s COVID-19 character. She has guided Russell Medical Incident Command Team is Misty Anderson, through numerous successful regulatory RN, BSN, Director of Education, Safety and surveys, and her devotion to education, Accreditation. To say she wears many hats is regulatory compliance and infection control an understatement, but she wears them very is incomparable. She is always focused on well. Russell Medical and the community are the safety and efficacy of patient care at our fortunate to have Misty steering us through hospital.” this pandemic with best practices. “Misty always shows the greatest respect Misty was recently named the 2020 for the people around her while maintaining a recipient of Russell Medical’s Nightingale positive attitude and calm demeanor,” another Award for Nursing Excellence. This nomination read. prestigious award is given to a nurse who Another reflected, “She has impeccable exemplifies the four qualities of nursing communication skills, and is always teamSusan Foy excellence: authentic leadership, effective focused. She is able to recognize the talents and communication, true collaboration and skills of her staff and utilizes those assets to sound decision-making. Nominations are submitted by provide excellent healthcare.” coworkers to the Nightingale Award Committee, and the Additionally, Misty is known far and wide as a Godly recipient is announced during a special ceremony in his or woman and a very active member of Rocky Creek Baptist her honor. Due to the current pandemic, the fanfare that Church in New Site, where she has spent many years as a normally surrounds this announcement was scaled back youth leader. She is the proud wife of Timmy and Mom to and altered to include a virtual format for employees to Johnathan and Becca. watch on internal news feeds. Upon receiving the award, Misty fought back tears. During the presentation, Human Resources Director “This is an unprecedented time, and a time when our Holly Williams announced the World Health Organization profession is stepping up – it’s just incredible. To have declared 2020 as “The Year of the Nurse” in honor of the the opportunity to work with a team like I have has been 200th birthday of Florence Nightingale. amazing, and I am proud to be a nurse – a nurse here at “How coincidental is this designation, as it comes at a Russell Medical,” she said. time when we have never depended on or appreciated our Although only one nurse receives this distinction, nurses more,” Williams said. Misty was joined by three very impressive nominees She further quoted excerpts from nomination forms who excel in their fields and respective nursing units. Williams described them as shining examples of nursing professionals at their best. Each serves the profession, patients, coworkers and hospital with true compassion, professionalism and leadership. Those nominated were Jackie Mobley, RN, BSN, nurse manager for cardiovascular services; Eric Miller, RN, clinical coordinator of the emergency department; and Donna Schouten, RN, surgical services. As the Nightingale Award recipient, Misty received a Florence Nightingale Lamp, and her name has been added to the Nightingale Statue on display in the hospital’s nursing administration office. We congratulate Misty for being recognized by her peers and colleagues for consistently exhibiting nursing excellence. We are proud of you, Misty.

Medical News

Florence Nightingale Award Misty Anderson heads up the COVID-19 Incident Command Team at Russell Medical.

~ Susan Foy is the marketing director at Russell Medical.

Lake Martin Living 29

Is it time for a second mortgage?

MONEY MATTERS

ith interest rates at historic case, ask your mortgage provider to update lows, many Alabamians are your pre-approval letter to match the price of finding that this is a good time your offer.) to buy a second home on the As another helpful way to use bank lake; to take out a construction loan to build financing for your home, if you are buying or pay for home renovations; or to refinance or own a home that needs a lot of work, or if existing mortgages. you want to build a new home, you should In fact, with rates so low, I have seen look into a construction loan. And if you clients who purchased homes recently own a homesite free and clear, you can use coming in and wanting to refinance. the equity to secure the construction loan. A In terms of buying a second home, if construction loan is specifically tailored to you are starting to look at properties in the match this type of project, since it includes area, here are a few things you can do to giving payments to the contractor as work is make sure you aren’t making any financial completed. mistakes in the process. Finally, if you already have a mortgage, David Ballard First, you’ll want to get pre-approved. it might also be a good time to consider Houses that are priced right are getting refinancing, since you may be able to reduce snatchedup quickly in this market, so you want to be either your payment or the term of the loan. able to act quickly without waiting to get approved. For example, we have clients who bought a home just Your mortgage specialist analyzes your qualifying a few years ago with a 30-year mortgage, and they’re now factors, but you should also take a broader look at how a refinancing to a 15- or 20-year mortgage while keeping purchase could impact your finances. First, consider the their payments close to what they were before. down payment that will be required – usually 10 percent As you consider all these mortgage options, it pays for a second home, but maybe as much as 25 percent, to look into whether your mortgage provider has any depending on the loan type and amount. incentives for refinancing at this time, such as reduced Then, make sure that you’re comfortable with or zero closing costs or a low fee for refinancing. the payment — not just the principal and interest. The key is having a knowledgeable mortgage You also need to consider the costs of homeowner’s professional who can help you see the options and insurance, property tax and homeowners’ association choices ahead of you – someone who will take the fees. Depending on the size of the house, you should time to understand your personal situation and has the also consider the cost of upkeep, utilities and other knowledge to craft a solution that works for you. necessities. Taking a big-picture look at this will help you feel comfortable that you won’t be putting yourself in a ~ David Ballard is a home loan consultant for Valley tough financial situation down the line. Bank, drawing on a complementary background that When you make an offer on that beautiful property includes experience in the insurance and construction you’ve fallen in love with, you will supply your prefields. He focuses on helping customers finance homes. approval letter to the seller. Make sure you don’t show all your cards here — you want to be sure that the preapproval letter from your bank does not, for example, say you are approved for a $400,000 purchase if the price you want to pay for the home is only $350,000. (In this 30 Lake Martin Living

We invite you to live the golf course lifestyle at Grand National Golf Course in Auburn-Opelika We have three quick move-in homes available now! Tour these incredible new construction homes in National Village, a beautiful community along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail In Auburn-Opelika, Alabama. Schedule a tour by calling 334.749.8165 or visit NationalVillage.com.

3557 Eagle Trail

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TO LEARN MORE VISIT NATIONALVILLAGE.COM OR CALL 334.749.8165 Lake Martin Living 31

What did COVID do to golf? T

he first tee is stacked, and that is a common scene for golf courses around the country right now. In this year of unrest, golf has been one of the stabilizing activities. Things have been altered slightly, but the game remains the same. In the Lake Martin area, spring breaks turned into early summer as the lake and golf courses played vital roles in creating sanity and sanctuary for so many. This year also brought true spring weather conditions, as well. Aside from the rainy days in later winter months, March, April and May included some of the most beautiful weather in my memory to the area. Oh, we did have a couple days of violent weather (leading me to get a new roof), but aside from those few days, it has been beautiful. People found solace in making Tallapoosa County and the surrounding area a place of refuge during the pandemic. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Alexander City fared well financially this spring when Alexander City Mayor Tommy Spraggins announced the city’s tax boom from this season. Before that report, I certainly thought we would be in the hole, but thanks to Lake Martin and the beauty of the area, that wasn’t the case. Anyone who has visited Willow Point or took a boat ride on the lake in March, April, May or June knows that the reason for the boom is obvious. It appears that almost everyone with a cabin or house on the waterfront made Lake Martin a primary residence this spring. While visiting Willow Point Country Club to play golf or any of our other local golf courses, golfers most likely rode in carts alone, rather than sharing the cart with a fellow competitor or partner. This was a responsible decision by those in the golf industry to maintain social distancing during the pandemic. Household members were allowed to ride together, but everyone else was required to ride solo. This did a few things to the game. For the player, it sped up play, as everyone could drive a cart directly to the golf ball; that was good. For the golf staff, things were much busier than in seasons past. In chatting with a few of the cart barn employees, they sent out every cart in their fleet almost daily since March. The workers not only cleaned the carts when they were returned but also disinfected 32 Lake Martin Living

them. Normally, trash disposal, a quick wash, spot-check tire inflation, park the cart back in its spot, plug it into the charger and say goodnight to that buggy. This year, more times than not, carts were returned from morning play to be run during a second round of golf in the afternoon. It has been a double-duty season for the carts, which made it double-duty for the golf pros and staff. I have to hand it to the golf pros and their employees who accommodated all of the golfers so well this year. They’ve done an excellent job. Think about this, too: Not only was the workload increased on the golf shop staff but also, maintenance employees had to step it up during this time. The single rider situation for golf carts doubled the traffic of tire wear and tear on the grounds of the golf course. With sand bottles for filling divots removed from carts, repairing divots fell upon maintenance crews. With larger numbers of golfers playing daily, hole locations and tee markers were changed more frequently. While manicuring acres and acres of grass, these people had to coordinate the shorter available time to perform their duties with a greater number of golfers on the course. Do something nice, and the next time you see a maintenance person working on the course, a pro shop staff member or cart barn employee, share your gratitude with them in the work they have performed for your benefit. When you, the customer, acknowledge the extra effort that these employees put into your recreation and enjoyment, it pumps up their morale. Normally, they tend to work even harder knowing that you have taken notice and appreciate their efforts and craft. Last week I made my way down to Dothan, Alabama, for the 2020 Press Thornton Future Masters Golf Tournament at Dothan Country Club. This is one of Alabama’s premier junior tournaments and one that I have visited for recruiting purposes yearly since becoming the golf coach at Central Alabama Community College. In 2000, our own Lee Williams won this prestigious junior golf tournament. This year’s Future Masters was a bit different from years past. This past year, Dr. Press Thornton passed away. His absence was certainly felt by many, but his sons, wife and Dothan Country Club members were still in full force to

provide a tremendous experience for hundreds of junior golfers participating in this annual event. Due to the COVID-19 virus, some local rules were in place: Players received a two-shot penalty if they removed flagsticks from the holes, and rakes were not in place, so players could lift their balls, smooth out the sand and place their balls for sand bunker shots. Although this is so very different to what we know as normal play, I was happy they were competing. Another odd thing about this year’s Future Masters was the absence of NCAA golf coaches in attendance. Normally, nearly every SEC, ACC, Sunbelt, Conference USA and a host of other D-1 conference coaches, as well as D-2 college coaches from far and wide attends to recruit junior golfers at this event. This year was different. The NCAA put a hold on NCAA D-1 and D-2 coaches from recruiting in person until the end of August 2020, so along with a couple of D-3 coaches in attendance, I had the run of the course and players this year. I think I made the best of my time, as well. I was especially pleased to watch an incoming CACC freshman golfer, Hayden Carner, play his practice and first round at this tournament. This gave me plenty of ideas for assisting him upon his arrival in Alexander City in August. I have to say, he’s a gutty player. He didn’t win the tournament, but he did make the cut. In round one, he made a double bogey and a triple bogey but still shot a score of 71 for the day. That shows me that he has a lot of grit, heart and determination, not to mention some talent. I also spotted a few other young golfers that I now have my eye on for the fall of 2021. It was great to be able to get back on the recruiting trail. Watching these young golfers, who have also suffered with an upside-down world in recent months, showed that they have the initiative and drive to develop and work on their golf games. It was a good trip. Oh yes, I have to share this: A 14-year old boy fired scores of 62, 62, 73 to win his age group by one stroke. Holy cow! Imagine yourself being a competing 14-year-old, shooting scores of 67, 67, 67 in a junior golf tournament and getting walloped by four strokes. That is amazing golf. Great players of the future are most certainly in the making today. In recent weeks, many people have asked me what the

From the Tee

plans are for Trojan Golf this coming fall. Let me assure you, it will certainly be out of the norm, but we plan to be doing our thing. The fall season was cut short a bit, which forced me to cancel our favorite tournament of the year, The Trojan Invitational at Willow Point Country Club in November. Of all of the courses our college teams play, the tournaments played at Willow Point always stick out as the favorite ones for all of the junior college golfers. Even with a shortened season ahead, I think that we are blessed to have a fall season for which Dave Jennings to prepare. At the moment, our spring season has not been impeded, and we are hoping for a full and competitive spring. After losing the spring season in 2020, I am biting at the bit to get my golf team back together and make another run for the 2021 NJCAA National Championship title. We will be practicing social distancing as well as possible and abiding by all state-mandated rules and regulations for the safety of these young people, their families and all concerned. I feel confident in saying that golf is in a good place right now. The growth is evident. I feel blessed to have been involved in this sport for nearly my whole entire adult life (boy, that’s been a long time, too). Thank you to all of you golf front-liners for allowing us the opportunity to enjoy the activity we love – golf. Through your efforts, you are helping a large number of people to relieve the stress of today’s uncertainties. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. Thank you. ~ Dave Jennings is the men᾿s golf coach at Central Alabama Community College.

Lake Martin Living 33

OH SNAP! 2

4 5

Meeting of the Musclecars Saturday, June 6, 2020 Wellborn Musclecar Museum 1. James Darnell and Jerry Hall 2. Shannon and Derrick McDuffie 3. Jerry Daniel, Renee Pike and Ronnie Taylor 4. Michele and Ed Baltrusaitis 5. Leann Rowe and Katy and Cole Knight 6. Lynn and Miana Price

34 Lake Martin Living

OH SNAP! 2

4th of July Fireworks Saturday, July 4, 2020 Wetumpka 1. Shelby Welch, Annie Claire Carmouche and Danielle Welch 2. Landon Barber and Hudson Howell 3. Hope and Brianne Staton, Logan, Amanda and Colson Johnston 4. Will Parker, Dawson Gray and Brayden and Ben Parker 5. Josh Lopez, Michael Adair, Christina Teegarden and Kayla Sanders 6. Landon, Deanna and Nicole Barber and Bradley and Heather Bass

Lake Martin Living 35

OH SNAP! 1

HGTV Home Town Makeover Announcement Thursday, July 2, 2020 Downtown Wetumpka 1. Carol Quates and Dorothy Jividen 2. Angie Carter and Laurie Weldon 3. Ramsey Ivey 4. Rodney, Tabitha, Katie, Carson and Madyson Powe 5. Greg Willis and Clay Murrell 6. Lynn Weldon, Tina and Gardner Perdue 7. Jeanna and Glenn Fouler, Michael Morgan, Thad and Gigi Hankins, Beth and Ricky Roberts

36 Lake Martin Living

OH SNAP! 1

5 5

Arti Gras Friday, July 3, 2020 The Town Green at Russell Crossroads 1. Annie Bartol 2. Rachel Dickinson 3. Jeff Long 4. Alex and Judith Jager 5. Bo Trotter and Nell and Purdy Blain 6. Mary Massey and Carson McCullough 7. Denise and Lila Graves

Lake Martin Living 37

OH SNAP! 1

Celebrate Freedom Friday, July 3, 2020 BRHS Band Practice Field, Alexander City 1. Ebony and Aniya Horton, Alyanna Wood, Latoya Horton and Marcus Davis Jr. 2. Clara Oliver 3. Mackinzie Sobley and Adrian Buchanan 4. Macie Moore 5. Abbie, Amelia and Leelynn Waldrop and Regina and Steve Robinson 6. Isabell Sivley and Maria Estes 7. Breanna and Waylon Futral 8. Yesenia and Lupe Ramierez, Austin Trapp and Alex and Kathy Ramierez 9. Khloe the poodle; Deshyland and Kelsey Hayse, Sidney Hart and Renee Richardson

38 Lake Martin Living

OH SNAP! 1

Music on the Square Thursday, June 18, 2020 Downtown Dadeville 1. Rick and Mitzy Hidding 2. Lynsey, Phillip, John and Langley Neighbors 3. Dianna and Paul Porter

4. Kim Corley and Randy Peterson 5. Cheryl Bynum and Tony and Nina Johnson 6. Terry and Jackie Wilborn with Bingo 7. Wanda Ryals 8. Ann and Matt Campbell 9. Debbie Gordon 10. Kay Frazier 11. Rob Hassett, Melody Ritchey, Donna Melvin and Todd Adams

Lake Martin Living 39

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Just Ducky

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI

The race begins at 9 a.m. on Aug. 8 when more than 2,000 rubber ducks will be released for the third annual Duck Norris Derby to benefit the Tallapoosa County Girls Ranch and the Tri-County Children’s Advocacy Center. Ducks are available for purchase as a single buy for $5; a quack pack of five for $20; or a flock of 30 for $100. The grand-prize winner will receive $2,500, and runners up also will 40 Lake Martin Living

receive prizes. Last year, the event netted $5,800 to help fund therapy and necessities for neglected and abused girls who live at the ranch. Due to coronavirus restrictions, this year’s event will be livestreamed on social media. The ducks will be released into Lake Martin at Chuck’s Marina, and spectators could follow the race online. Last year’s race included almost

2,300 ducks, Ready, Set,Go! Rubber ducks are and the released at the start winner bought only of last year's event. a single duck. Purchase ducks at Chuck’s from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays or purchase them online by visiting the Duck Norris Derby Faebook page. For more information or to sign on as a sponsor, call 256-896-4113.

LAKE REGION EVENTS Now-Aug. 21

Southeastern Contemporary & International Connections

Add some art to your summer and be sure to check out this exhibit from the permanent collection at The Kelly Fitzpatrick Memorial Gallery, located at 110 E. Bridge St., Wetumpka. The Kelly is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Now-November

Confronting COVID-19

The Kelly’s online Treasure Hunt Exhibit 2020 addresses the phases of coping with the coronavirus pandemic. Part I is titled ‘Isolation,’ to be followed by ‘Activities,’ ‘Healing’ and, finally, ‘Reunion.’ Visit the exhibit at thekelly.org and on the museum’s Facebook page.

Now-July 18

Children’s Harbor Virtual Auction

The Friends of Children’s Harbor will hold this year’s annual auction fundraiser online, beginning July 13. The auction will remain open leading up to July 18. Visit the Facebook page and Instagram @childrensharbor for details. Previously purchased tickets can be fully refunded or donated directly to Camp Changes Lives to send a child to camp. For more information, contact Erin Slaughter at erinslaughter@childrensharbor. com.

July 18

Lion’s Lake Martin Poker Run

Gather your crew for one of the best times on the lake and one that raises money for local charities. The Lion’s Lake Martin Poker Run starts at 8:30 a.m. as costumed crews launch decorated boats from Kowaliga Marina to collect cards around the lake before meeting at The Ridge Marina to see which boat crew assembled the best hand and which wins the costume contest. There are treasure chest opportunities, and players can

purchase extra cards to improve their chances of winning. For registration information, visit RussellMarine.net.

July 18

Community Picnic

Gibraltar Lodge will host a community picnic from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Strand Park in downtown Alexander City. There will be free food and games. This event will aim to strengthen community relationships and promote peace.

July 21

Tuesdays with Kelly: Beauty in Wood

The Kelly will host Longleaf Wood Shop and Gallery owner Neill Thompson at this month’s brown bag lunch event from noon to 1 p.m. at 110 E. Bridge St., Wetumpka. Thompson will show some of his works and will demonstrate how he teaches woodcrafting. He will offer a class for Kelly members after the program. For more information, visit thekelly.org.

Aug. 3-26

ECAG at Anita P. Folmar Art Gallery

For the second consecutive year, the Arts Council of Montgomery has invited the Elmore County Art Guild to exhibit at the gallery in the Armory Learning Arts Center at 1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery. The gallery will be open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact Shirley Esco at 334-399-5115 for more information.

Aug. 7

Cow Patty Bingo

The Reeltown Quarterback Club will host Cow Patty Bingo at the Reeltown High School Baseball Field at 7 p.m. The square with the largest cow patty wins. Tickets are $100 each, and only 324 tickets are available for purchase. The top five winners receive prizes. Proceeds benefit the Reeltown Quarterback Club.

Aug. 8

Lake Martin Digital Scavenger Hunt

Russell Medical Foundation will host a photography event at the lake on Jazz Fest weekend. Register your team for $150 per boat at The Ridge Marina between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. and get a list of items to hunt down and photograph around the lake. All items must be photographed on one designated cellphone. Each photographed item will carry a point value. Photos will be reviewed and validated to determine the top three winners, who will be announced at the Saturday Jazz Fest concert series at Lake Martin Amphitheater. Top prize is $1,500. Visit the Russell Medical Foundation Facebook page for details.

Aug. 12

Taste and Paint

Bring a beverage of your choice to the StillWaters Welcome Center at 2 p.m., and art supplies will be provided for painting a fun picture with friends you bring along or friends you make at this event. Social distancing will be respected, so you must call to reserve your spot. The Welcome Center is at the county Road 49 South entrance to the resort, just before going through the gate. Call instructor Kay Fincher at 256825-2506 for a reservation.

Aug. 15

Everything’s Art in the Park

Everything’s Art in Dadeville will host an Art in the Park festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Pennington Park. More than 50 artists’ booths will feature original artwork. There will be food trucks all day and music until 7 p.m. Contact Rick Hidding at rick@everythingsart.org for more information.

Season-long Events

Music on the Square

Zazu’s Verandah and Raining Dogs Gallery host music on the renovated Courthouse Square in Dadeville from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. every Thursday through July 30. The music will be played under the awning at Lake Martin Living 41

LAKE REGION EVENTS Raining Dogs Gallery, and beverages will be available at Zazu’s Verandah. Visitors are welcome to view the artwork in the gallery, too. Bring lawn chairs and abide by social distancing guidelines.

Tunes on the Green

Bring lawn chairs, blankets and coolers to the Village Green in Millbrook for free music in the park from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on June 18 and July 2 and 16. Food vendors will be on site, but you also can bring your own picnic. No pets; no alcoholic beverages; and no glass, please. For artist information, visit the City of Millbrook Facebook page.

Friday on the Green

Start the weekend with music and more at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads Friday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring friends, family and the dog on a leash. Please remember to maintain social distancing.

Farmers Market

The Farmers Market in downtown Alexander City is open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through September. You’ll find fresh produce, jams, jellies, herbs, soaps and lotions, homemade goods and more at Broad Street Plaza. Pennington Park Farmers Marketplace in Dadeville offers a producers-only market with homegrown produce and homemade goods from local vendors from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on alternate Sunday afternoons (July 26, Aug. 9 and 23). In Millbrook, the Farmers Market opens on the Village Green from 8 a.m. to noon every Tuesday through Aug. 11 with farm fresh fruits, vegetables, honey, house plants, Master Gardener demonstrations and more.

Music at Copper’s Grill

Copper’s Grill hosts music outdoors on the lawn at 7:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. Bring your own lawn chairs and please keep a proper social distance.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

Volunteers in Alexander City and Dadeville are encouraged to participate in community partnership cleanups every month. In Alexander City, the cleanups are held on the third Saturday of the month. Meet at Broad Street Plaza at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. For more information, contact Jacob Meacham at jacob.meacham@ alexandercitychamber.com. In Dadeville, the monthly cleanup is held on the first Saturday of the month, and volunteers can pick up sanitized pickers and bags at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall. There also will be a trash bag drop-off on site. Contact Dianna Porter at 256-750-0075.

Strand Sessions

Lake Martin Young Professionals hosts an annual concert series from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the top of the hill at Strand Park in Alexander City through September. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, coolers and a picnic supper or purchase from downtown restaurants.

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschoolaged 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.

Ladies’ Book Club

Ladies 18 years of age and older are invited to participate in the club at Adelia M. Russell Library on the last Thursday of every month. Meet in the conference room at 4 p.m. Call the library at 256-234-4644 for each month’s book title.

Santuck Flea Market

The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month, at 7300 Central Plank Rd., state Route 9 in Wetumpka.

42 Lake Martin Living

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on state Route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children's Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

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.

Open Studio

The Artists Association of Central Alabama meets from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Senior Center and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays at the Dadeville Senior Center on Columbus St. Beginners are welcome, and there is no charge for open studios. For more information, call June Dean at 334301-5317.

Soup and Sandwich

St. James Episcopal Church on S. Central Avenue in Alexander City will hold Soups To-Go from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Tuesday through August. The program is open to all and will supply a cup of hot soup and a half-sandwich by curbside pick up or walk-up.

IT’S TIME FOR SUMMER FUN IS YOUR HEART READY? We all want to get back out there again. Make sure your heart is healthy and ready for the season with an appointment at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic of Central Alabama, conveniently located at Russell Medical. Dr. Kevin Sublett and his staff provide complete cardiovascular care in your own community. Patients receive the latest in testing, treatment, and preventive care for the full range of heart and vascular conditions. The clinic is backed by the knowledge and expertise of UAB Medicine, including: • The most advanced ultrasound testing technology • Nuclear medicine imaging in fully accredited labs • Management of cardiac rhythm disorders • Care from a physician board-certified in interventional cardiology MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY BY CALLING (256) 234-2644.

UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic of Central Alabama 3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 Alexander City, AL 35010 uabmedicine.org/heartcentralAL

HEART & VASCULAR CLINIC CENTRAL ALABAMA

Lake Martin Living 43

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

Power lines

280

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Flint Hill Church

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

Rockford

128

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Mt. Zion Church Russell Farms Baptist Church Friendship Church New Hope Church

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Smith Landing Willow Point

Seman

4 Camp Kiwanis

10 1

Church in The Pines

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko w

ali

Stillwaters

19 5

7 2

Union Landing

23 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

Walnut Hill

20 25

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

8 63 17 9

Equality

231

12 24

Dadev

280

Liberty Church

Jacksons Gap

Pleasant Grove Church

Union

Central

Red Hill

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

Eclectic Santuck

11 Kent Reeltown

231

ELMORE COUNTY

120

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

44 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUNT

Marinas

Daviston

1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 2 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 4 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741 2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026 5 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 6 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550 486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

hoe Bend nal Park

7 Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600 397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

Restaurants & Venues

CHAMBERS COUNTY

ville

ON TY

9 Catherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market 256-215-7070 17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 10 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Camp Hill

88 SpringHouse 256-215-7080 12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

11 Acapulco Mexican Grill 334-283-2725 2867 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee, AL 36078 12 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt & Flatbread Pizza 256-444-8793 smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com 280

Business & Shopping Waverly

13 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036 230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

18 Dark Insurance 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 19 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133 6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853 20 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 21 The Tiny Rabbit 256-307-1998 220 N. Broadnax St., Dadeville, AL 36853

Hotels & Lodges 22 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440 6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches 23 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820 8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 24 Lake Pointe Baptist Church 8352 AL-50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293

Dock Builders 25 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443 180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 26 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400 6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment 27 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

14 Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567 1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 15 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132 1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

16 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256 350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853

LEE COUNTY

17 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333 288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

Loachapoka 14

Notasulga 85 81

If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-414-3174. Space is limited.

Lake Martin Living 45

DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE! Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy. ATTENTION READERS: Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic some of our distribution locations have changed. This month, you may pick up the most recent issue of Lake magazine at the following locations. If you are ordering take out from any of the restaurants listed below or delivery from any of these groceries, request your free copy of Lake magazine with your order. ALEXANDER CITY Robinson Iron A & M Plumbing Valley National Bank - 280 Carlos The Body Shop Jake's Moore Wealth Management Carlisle's Wine Emporium CACC Cloud Nine Shay Aesthetics Piggly Wiggly JR's Downtown Girl Russell Do It Center City Hall Dylan Johnson-Country Financial Chamber of Commerce Hillabee Towers Noel Boone George Hardy First Realty Mainstreet Family Care First Insurance Dark Insurance Warren Appliance Grace's Flowers Koon's Korner Larry's General Merchandise & Grocery Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark Jackson Drugs Alfa BB&T Bank Alex City Marine Valley Bank Main Mortgage Pro AllState Daylight Donuts Hometown Pharmacy Allen's Food Mart (Exxon) Karen Channell - State Farm

46 Lake Martin Living

Insurance Re/Max Around the Lake North Lake Condo River Bend Store River North Marina Lake Martin Building Supply Petro Sho'Nuff BBQ Hair Design King's Furniture Jim Bob's Chicken Fingers Longleaf Antique Mall Jameson Inn Winn Dixie Regions Bank American Inn Russell Medical Center Citgo Hampton Inn Koons II Tallapoosa Ford Days Inn Holley's Home Furniture Jackson's Refrigeration, LLC. Sure Shot Shell - 280 Big B Bar-B-Que Russell Home Decor Jet Pep Comfort Inn Holman Floor Satterfield Inc. A & E Metal Wind Creek (Gate) Wind Creek (Store) Smith Marina on Lake Martin Willow Point (Office) Willow Point Country Club Catherine's Market RUSSELL REAL ESTATE Springhouse Restaurant Ridge Club Ridge Marina Kowaliga Marina Sunrise Docks Kowaliga Restaurant Russell Lands Corporate Office Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center Children's Harbor OPELIKA Collaboration Station EQUALITY Five Star Plantation Equality Food Mart Charles Borden Real Island Marina

Southern Star Parker Marina ECLECTIC Nails Lake Martin Marine South Lake Breeze Realty Mitchell's Upholstery Lake Martin Mini Mall Lake Martin Dock Cotton's Alabama Barbecue Russell Do It Center Cozumel 1st Community Bank Johnson Furniture Eclectic Public Library WOW Catering LLC DADEVILLE Sigger's Barber Shop The Tiny Rabbit American Watersports Raining Dogs Bay Pines Marina Siggers Alabama Power Dadeville Public Library Pearson's Place City Hall Dadeville Courthouse Payne's Furniture PNC Bank Home Plate Cafe Valley Bank McKelvey Chevrolet Renfroe's Market Foshee's Boat Doc Lakeshore Pharmacy Russell Building Supply Lakay's Amy Banks Realty TMP Construction Dadeville Chamber of Commerce Farmers & Merchants Bank Store 34 Jim's Pharmacy Shell 280 Root 49 Salon Poplar Dawgs Still Waters Country Club Still Waters Residential Association Fuller Realty Harbor Pointe Marina Oskar's Creekside Lodge Blue Creek Marina Lakeside Marina Niffer's Hwy 50 Eagle

Millstone Nursery Lakeside Mercantile Fusion Grill At the Beauty Shop Chuck's Marina TITUS Kim's Corner MILLBROOK/PRATTVILLE Gene Jones Insurance Stone & Britt, LLC Millbrook City Hall Millbrook Chamber 1st Community Bank YMCA - Prattville SLAPOUT Lake Pharmacy Boy's Store Austin Flowers WETUMPKA Wetumpka Chamber Hampton Inn Russell Do It Center City of Wetumpka - Administrative Building Hog Rock BBQ Holley Mart WInd Creek Casino Convenience Store Wind Creek Wetumpka 1st Community Bank Valley Bank Brandt Wright Realty Jackson Thornton BB&T Bank Must Stop Cafe Emerald Mountain Store Bumpers Store Busch's Grocery Wetumpka YMCA Friendship Grocery TALLASSEE Marathon Tallassee Chamber Hilltop Grocery Road Runner Cozumel Tallassee Public Library True Value Hardware Walmart Red Hill Gallery Tallassee Eagle State Farm Get Lake magazine delivered to your mailbox for just $25 per year. To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

let there be

MEAT

Lake Martin Living 47

AD INDEX A&M Plumbing.................................................................................... 6

Nathan Marcus, Allstate..................................................................... 1 4

A&O Tree Service............................................................................... 4 7

National Village................................................................................. 3 1

Acupressure Massage Therapist......................................................... 4 9

New Water Farms.............................................................................. 4 9

Alexander Landscaping ..................................................................... 2 6

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

Beyond Home Care............................................................................ 2 6

Oskar's.............................................................................................. 4 7

Big B BBQ.......................................................................................... 4 7

Prime Home Health............................................................................ 1 4

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

Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6

C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 1 4

River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 4 9

DAVCO Development........................................................................ 4 9 Eddie & B's Carwash & Produce......................................................... 4 9 First Methodist Church Dadeville........................................................ 4 9 Four Seasons..................................................................................... 4 9 George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 6 Harbor Pointe Marina........................................................................ 2 8 Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance............................................... 4 9 Heritage South Credit Union................................................................ 2 Jim DeBardelaben.............................................................................. 2 8

Romar Construction........................................................................... 4 9 Russell Medical.................................................................................. 5 2 Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................... 5 Scooter's Grille.................................................................................. 2 0 Sistrunk............................................................................................. 2 6 Southern Sash................................................................................... 2 6 Stillwaters.......................................................................................... 2 0 Sunrise Docks.................................................................................... 4 8

Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance................................................ 4 9

Swearingen Fence.............................................................................. 1 4

Kowaliga Whole Health..................................................................... 4 9

Sweet Pickins..................................................................................... 4 9

Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 13, 49

Tallapoosa County Board of Education............................................... 5 1

Lake Martin Signature Construction................................................... 4 7

Tallassee Health & Rehab................................................................... 2 0

Live Oak Agency................................................................................ 2 0

Three Sixty Real Estate....................................................................... 2 1

Mainstreet Alexander City.................................................................... 3

TowBoatUS........................................................................................ 4 6

Millstone Nursery............................................................................... 1 4

UAB Heart & Vascular........................................................................ 4 3

Morris Haynes...................................................................................... 5

Viking Axe and Bow.......................................................................... 2 8

Lake Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marine Construction Company 6732 Highway 63 South, Alexander Cit y, AL 35010 | (256) 392-5200 | www. sunrisedock sllc.com

48 Lake Martin Living

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Eddie Yarbrough Owner

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

334-857-2443 lakemartindock.com

BOATHOUSES | STATIONARY DOCKS FLOATING DOCKS | SEAWALLS EZ PORTS PWC LIFTS | BOAT LIFTS RE-DECKS | BOAT LIFT REPAIRS

Lake Martin Living 49

Make Do & Mend ake Do and

Mend came about during World War II when clothes rationing was necessary, as supplies were diverted to the war effort. The British Ministry of Information issued a pamphlet guiding people on how to extend the life of their clothes. Fast forward to 2020, and women were all dressed up with nowhere to go. Our current cultural climate has been closely compared to the Great Depression. Men and women alike have transitioned from office settings to working from home. The corporate meeting turned Zoom call; where one need only put on a nice shirt. No pants required. That had to be weird to someone used to wearing a suit every day. Throughout the last 100 years, fashion has ebbed and flowed with the economy. When times have been good, the clothes got more glitz and glam – remember the 1980s and the big puffed sleeves and flashy jewels? When times have been hard, people lived in jeans and cotton, simple and hardy fabrics that are meant to last. Once the stay-at-home orders were issued, online retailers delivered an onslaught of email marketing selling cute tie-dyed sweat clothes. They wanted us to be comfy and cute while we Netflixed and chilled. There were also a lot of sales happening. However, I talked to several friends about this casual clothing thing, and it did not sit well. We all began quarantine in our workout clothes, but that got boring after awhile and was kind of depressing. There is something mentally healthy about getting up, dressing up and putting makeup on. Beauty and 50 Lake Martin Living

at-home-skin-regime sales are way up because women have felt more comfortable splurging on beauty items versus clothes. The fashion blogs say we should get ready for the comeback of the housedress – long and loose cotton or linen dresses, like caftans, which are functional but cute. You could work in them but still be presentable for a social outing. And there’s this from Instyle.com: “While house dresses during the Great Depression were humble and hand-crafty, that changed in 1942, when Claire McCardell, the designer credited with defining the American Look, invented the Popover Dress, a radically simple and comfortable yet flattering wrap dress, which came with a matching potholder, that any woman could own for $7 ($111 in today’s dollars).” If it comes with a potholder count me in. Minimalism and capsule dressing has been a thing for a while now, but experts predict that trend will continue to grow. Consumers will be more willing to invest in articles of clothing that will be seasonless and will last longer. I have always been a jeansand-T-shirt kind of gal, and my stack of heels has been Lacey Howell gathering dust the past few months. Once all is well again, and it will be, I think everyone might be ready to dress up and show out. Until then, we can make do and mend.

Culture Shock

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

Lake Martin Living 51

Lake Martin Living July 2020

Articles inside

CULTURE SHOCK

BUSINESS MATTERS

EVERYTHING'S ART IN THE PARK

30 YEARS OF JAZZ

MONEY MATTERS

MEDICAL NEWS

A WEEK LIKE NO OTHER

FROM THE TEE

AROUND THE AREA