Lake Martin Living magazine September 2019

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

Kudzu When

Was King

September 2019

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

The Essence of Team Spirit Wilson Brothers win big in Nashville

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2 Lake Martin Living

W H E R E WAT E R CO N N ECT S U S

It’s a vision.

A vision for developing and preserving our shorelines. For environmental and land stewardship. For creating opportunity and prosperity.

A vision for crafting places we want to be.

Introducing our communities on Lake Martin: Kennebec – Lots starting in the mid-$100,000s Talisi Cove – Homes starting in the high-$300,000s

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Lake Martin Living 3

From the Editor’s Desk

T

allapoosa County and the surrounding areas are home to a plethora of talented artists, and Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. is excited to showcase them at this year’s inaugural Lake Martin Living Art Walk on Oct. 5. We’re eager to expand our annual art and photography contest into a day of downtown fun, thanks to our presenting sponsor Main Street Alexander City. If you haven’t already submitted your work, you’re running out of time! Drop off your readyto-hang art or photography piece (or supply an easel for display) to TPI by Sept. 20. I love seeing all the beautiful work rolling in. For details on the event or how to submit your work, visit pages 15 and 43.

I may not be an artist, but some have compared cooking to an art – and that I can do. If I weren’t already in in a job I loved, my next choice would be to run a food truck. After attending culinary school, I always thought it was much more fitting of my style; plus, being mobile would have allowed me to go to the people.

This is one of the advantages Tony Blanco and Mark Gilliland enjoy about their new operation, Blanco’s Food Truck. It’s no surprise, then that I was drawn to this story and have been an avid supporter of Tony Blanco since I met him. I admire Tony mostly because without any formal training, he does what I learned by earning a degree. He has done it by gaining experience on the job. Let me tell you, aside from the actual cooking aspect of operating a food business, which is challenging in itself, the day-to-day operations are not an easy feat.

So when Tony partnered up with Mark, owner of Ocie & Belle’s, I had a feeling their venture would be successful. Both men are dedicated to the community and share a passion for quality and consistency. Read more about their adventure and Blanco’s Mexican-inspired dishes on page 10.

While non-native Blanco has had a positive impact on the area, I can’t necessarily say the same for the kudzu plant that was imported and now overruns the county.

Not being a native to the South, I really haven’t spent much time and energy thinking about the ever-growing plant that is plaguing the area.

Honestly, I don’t even think I’ve noticed it was an issue; however, Shane Harris’ in-depth history of how this plant came to invade Tallapoosa County provided some insight.

On page 16, check out Harris’ Garden Talk column that focuses on the good intentions farmers had in cultivating kudzu – not knowing what it would become. Originally used to battle soil erosion, the porch vine came to have a variety of other uses. As much as the plant may be a pest, Harris raises the question of what the county would be like – if it existed at all – without the help of kudzu’s enigmatic existence.

While the jury is still out on the benefits of kudzu, one thing we do know is the success Alexander City native brothers Kyle and Chad Wilson have made in the music industry. On page 46, Lacey Howell has a one-onone with Kyle about the band’s journey, which now includes winning Best Country Duo at the Nashville Industry Music Awards last month.

We have a lot of people to be proud of in Alexander City, and I love having the opportunity to share these stories with our readers. While I am not a native, I am certainly proud to call this town home.

Amy Passaretti, Editor 4 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Editor Amy Passaretti Contributors Kenneth Boone Dave Jennings Shane Harris Cliff Williams Lizi Arbogast Lacey Howell Gabrielle Jansen Lonna Upton Santana Wood Susan Foy Randy Dawkins Kate Meriweather Shannon McDuffie Irving Blanco Judith Jager Steve McCall Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Katie Wesson Marilyn Hawkins Julie Harbin Jolie Waters Digital Services Kat Raiford 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 256-2344281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

Lake Martin Living 5

ON THE COVER

Dr. George W. Hardy General Dentistry

DESIGNS

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

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6 Lake Martin Living

Kudzu blossoms are purple and fragrant but often obscure. The growing vine that has taken over Tallapoosa County was used years ago to prevent soil erosion, as well as grazing and hay crops for livestock.

Farmers’ lands were saved by this current nuisance of a plant.

Photo by Shane Harris

IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 10. BUSINESS MATTERS 16. GARDEN TALK 20. MONEY MATTERS 21. MEDICAL NEWS 30. FROM THE TEE 32. OH SNAP! 36. LAKE REGION EVENTS 46. CULTURE SHOCK

FEATURES 15. INAUGURAL ART WALK Lake Martin Living event to spotlight downtown arts and entertainment 22. CLUB SHARES LOVE OF UNIQUE INSTRUMENT Lake Martin Dulcimers play tunes around county 24. THE ESSENCE OF TEAM SPIRIT Mascots play a significant role in community pride 28. WAVERLY COMMUNITY BBQ Fun-filled day revolves around decades-old recipe Benjamin Russell High School has claimed Alex the Wildcat as its mascot since its inception in 1950.

24

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AROUND THE AREA

Regional lands biologist awarded for efforts Lifelong The 2019 Conservationist Alabama Wildlife Joel Glover Federation (center) was Governor’s awarded Conservation Conservation Achievement Enforcement Awards Officer of the Year. ceremony last month honored a Tallapoosa County resident among its winners.

Joel Glover works with the Department of Conservation as a regional lands biologist and enforcement officer in Tallapoosa and Coosa counties. He was presented the Conservation Enforcement Officer of the Year award. For more than 30 years, Glover has assisted private landowners; developed management

plans; managed wildlife management areas; mentored employees; trained enforcement officers; and taught hunter education.

He also is the only recipient of the Alabama TREASURE Forest Program’s Lifetime Achievement Award. ~ Staff Report

Horseshoe Bend Park tests water for mercury Horseshoe Bend National Military Park is participating in a nationwide research effort to gain insight into the health of our local waters. The OldGrowth Bottomland Forest Research and Education Center and the University of Maine have funded the park to coordinate field days in which dragonfly larvae are collected from the Tallapoosa River and a perennial creek to test for

mercury levels.

Mercury can enter park waters from distant non-point sources, and once toxins are in the water, they proceed up the food chain and accumulate in higher predators, such as fish. When fish are eaten by birds, poison is spread at a high level.

Each dragonfly larvae collected will be identified by species; and then, sent

to the University of Maine laboratory where it will be analyzed for the presence and amount of mercury. This is the first year Horseshoe Bend is participating, but since 2011, more than 100 other national park sites have contributed to this research.

If interested in helping with this project as a citizen scientist, email Ranger Eric Frey at eric_frey@nps.gov.

Barbour to retire as Dadeville police chief at end of the month Dadeville Police Chief David Barbour will say goodbye to his job on Sept.

30 and begin to enjoy retirement after 26-plus years with the Dadeville Police Department.

Barbour came to the department in 1993 and was appointed chief in 2012, witnessing many changes throughout the years.

“I have strived, along with the help of my officers, to adopt policies and procedures to bring our department to a modern-day police department for the benefit of the Dadeville citizens,” he said.

Dadeville Mayor Wayne Smith said the city would host a reception on Sept.

26 to honor Barbour.

The soon-to-be-open police chief

position has been posted, and the city council will begin reviewing applications.

Smith said he feels there are many good candidates within the department that could be considered.

“I want to thank all the employees with the City of Dadeville for their kind friendship … I want to thank the men and women of the Dadeville Police Department for their respect for me and our profession to achieve the goals that I and the officers have put in place to better Years of Service serve the citizens Dadeville Police of Dadeville,” said Chief David Barbour.

Barbour will retire at the end of the month.

~ Cliff Williams Lake Martin Living 9

Blanco's Food Truck Zealous partnership the driving force behind mobile business STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY IRVING BLANCO

T

he ingenuity of two devoted Alexander City community members who share a love of quality products inspired the creation of Blanco’s Food Truck.

Tony Blanco and Mark Gilliland formed a bond when they began working together two years ago, which ultimately led to the effortless decision to partner on a joint venture.

“Our relationship started when we were working together on Main Street – I was doing a bloody Mary bar at Ocie & Belle’s, and Tony would come cook up his omelet bar. As soon as I started working with Tony, I liked him.

He’s young, energetic and cares about the product he puts out. I like to think I do the same at the bar. That’s why we’ve been successful,” said Gilliland, also owner of Ocie & Belle’s on Main Street.

The food truck began operation at the beginning of August after the pair purchased a 2002 United States Postal Service workforce truck and converted it into a working kitchen. The vehicle is outfitted with two coolers, which have counter and prep space; a gas range with two burners; a large flat top gas grill; a hand washing sink and a vent hood, which helps push out the hot air.

While Gilliland’s main responsibilities include behind-the-scenes work, reserving locations and Local Entrepreneur taking orders when on site, Blanco’s culinary talents Tony Blanco creates are the driving force of the business. Described as the recipes for the authentic Mexican flavors with a twist, Blanco’s Mexican-inspired food is inspired by his Mexican roots with an added dishes he serves up.

10 Lake Martin Living

BUSINESS MATTERS

Lake Martin Living 11

distinctive element of his own style.

“Everything we serve is made inhouse: sauces, marinades, pico de gallo,” said Blanco. “Sauce especially is something people gravitate to, so we set out to create a signature sauce, which is our chipotle mayo.”

The menu currently consists of tacos, nachos and quesadillas, while rotating some daily specials – even if not Mexican-centered.

“We’re not limited in our food offerings, which is why it’s a food truck, not a taco truck,” said Blanco.

The three base elements can be served with ground beef chorizo, chicken, buffalo chicken or shrimp.

“Many people assume chorizo is pork, but that’s the style of marinade not the meat,” said Blanco. “We use thigh meat for our chicken because it stays moist, and we wanted to do something different from shredded. The shrimp is marinated and grilled, inspired by the Mexican dish, camarones a la diabla, which contains blackened flavorings.”

Tacos are made with corn tortillas, which is the authentic way, he said. Shrimp tacos come with a house-made slaw and chipotle mayo. Quesadillas are made with flour tortillas and contain a meat of choice and cheese.

Nachos include Blanco’s mom’s beans and rice recipe, with meat, cheese, pico de gallo, sour cream and chipotle mayo.

Ana Zarate, Blanco’s mother, also cooks on the food truck, along with her friend, Graciele Oajaca and Santos Chimalhua.

“It really is a group effort, a team thing. Everybody has their roles. Really, it’s a whole community effort,” said Gilliland.

After Blanco closed the Taco Bar and left Coffee Corner, where he was part owner, earlier this year anticipation ran high for the return of his food.

“People were so anxious for us to re-open. The community feedback has been so positive. From the time we announced On the Move

Top: The USPS truck was converted into a working kitchen; Left: Quesadillas are one of the three staple menu items.

12 Lake Martin Living

we’d be opening a food truck, people had just been waiting to come by,” said Blanco. “Especially the Alexander City firefighters. They used to walk over to the Taco Bar all the time for lunch, and now they’re still following us where we park the food truck. They’re some of our biggest supporters.”

Gilliland said he’s noticed how many hard-working community members choose to spend their money eating at the food truck multiple times a week.

“I think that’s a huge compliment to Tony and to what he’s doing. To see people be willing to come back time and time again and willing to give you that hard-earned money, is a really inspiring thing,” he said.

Being able to move to a customer base is one of the strongest advantages of the operation, said both Blanco and Gilliland.

“I enjoy this more than brick and mortar because even though it’s hard – and trust me, it’s not as easy as it may look – you are not tied down to one spot, and you can move to customers. People are so much more accepting when we change locations, hours, etc.,” said Blanco. “The beauty of it is – here we get to say we sold out; rather than we ran out.”

The future plans for the food truck are to slowly add additional items while still maintaining a manageable menu and branching out to attend larger events, which will increase the customer base.

Blanco’s Food Truck typically Team Effort is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Right: Ana Zarate, To follow its daily location, visit Blanco's mother, Blanco’s Food Truck’s Facebook does the majority page and Instagram. The operation of cooking; Below: also is available for catering Food is authentic with Blanco's personal twist. weddings and private events.

Lake Martin Living 13

IN-HOME CARE SERVICES

Brian King, M.D.

Stacy Davidson, CRNP

Rob Gathings, M.D.

Surgical Dermatology Group is pleased to announce the opening of our new office in Alexander City, located in the Professional Office Building on the Russell Medical Center campus. Dermatology appointments are available Monday through Thursday with Stacy Davidson, CRNP, as well as Brian King, MD and Rob Gathings, MD who have recently joined Surgical Dermatology Group.

Call us to schedule your annual skin check!

For elderly and disabled individuals needing assistance with activities of daily living.

Homemaking... Personal Care... Companionship 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.

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14 Lake Martin Living

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Inaugural art walk spotlights downtown entertainment

L

ake Martin Living’s inaugural art walk on Oct. 5 will feature art and photography displays throughout downtown Alexander City. With Main Street Alexander City as the presenting sponsor, downtown will come alive to create a fun-filled day for the whole family with business participation, live music, tastings and special sales and promotions.

From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the day of the event, art will exhibited the streets and alleys and be on display at Ocie & Belle’s, Fermenter’s Market, Coffee Corner, Lake Martin Pizza Co. and Emporium Wine. Participants are encouraged to visit each location to browse the entire selection of submitted works.

There will be a brochure available with a listing of all art work and a map (below) of exhibit and voting locations.

Attendees can then play a part in the day by placing People’s Choice votes at one of the participating locations – including Maker’s Market, Cloud Nine, Half Moon Market & Interiors/ Carlisle’s, Merle Norman Cosmetics Store, Downtown Girl and Frohsin’s Clothier. By making a donation, people can vote for

their favorite pieces. All proceeds from voting will go toward Alexander City Theatre II’s building fund.

The festivities will continue at 5 p.m. at the United Way Conference Room with awards, door prizes, complimentary refreshments from local eateries and complimentary wine served by Emporium Wine. This event is open to the public.

There is only about a week left to submit artwork to TPI, 548 Cherokee Rd. in Alexander City. The deadline is 5 p.m. on Sept. 20. Entry fees are $15, with a maximum of five entries per person. The artist’s name and contact information must be clearly marked on the back of the piece, and each submission must be ready to hang or be submitted with an easel for display.

For more details on the contest, see the ad on page 43.

In addition, the contest’s history and growth will be showcased in an upcoming video that will be produced by TPI Digital. Visit lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving or visit Lake Martin Living’s Facebook page for information.

For questions, contact Amy Passaretti or Betsy Iler at editor@lakemartinmagazine.com or 256-234-4281.

People’s Choice Award Voting Locations Lake Martin Pizza Co.

Art on Display

Froshin’s Clothier

Emporium Wine Half Moon Market & Interiors Carlisle’s Cloud Nine

Merle Norman

MainStreet Maker’s Market

Fermenter’s Market

Ocie & Belle’s Downtown Girl

Coffee Corner on Main

Lake Martin Living 15

Kudzu When

Was King

16 Lake Martin Living

T

hroughout the modern landscape of Tallapoosa County and Alabama countryside, the notorious green vine, known as kudzu, can be seen growing everywhere.

Creeping and crawling like a plague, it is common to find it dominating old fields, clinging to mature trees, consuming abandoned houses and running up utility poles.

Kudzu has become deeply rooted in our culture and associated with the South, along with the likes of sweet Shane Harris tea, fried chicken and college football; however not in a positive light. Kudzu around here is a bad word, a nuisance and invasive vine, despised by land and homeowners alike.

Residents often wonder how this stuff got here and why on Earth people went through the trouble of planting such a dreadful pest.

What were they thinking? Truth be told, looking back at the history, there was a purpose and reason kudzu was introduced in Tallapoosa County. Folks will not believe it, but many, many years ago, when our rural landscape was much different, kudzu was king.

According to our Alabama Cooperative Extension publications, kudzu first arrived in the United States in 1876 as a display at the Japanese Exhibition of the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition; however, a law declared all plants be destroyed after the exhibition. Kudzu also was later displayed in the United States in 1883 at the New Orleans Exposition.

In the late 19th century, kudzu seeds were imported and sold for use as an ornamental vine to shade porches and courtyards of Southern homes. Thus, it was sometimes labeled or called ‘porch vine.’ It also was appreciated for the The Vine That Ate the grape-like fragrance South of its flowers and Kudzu is a classic for its vigorous example of a plant that was introduced growth. with good intentions By the turn of but has resulted the century, kudzu in bad outcomes; was available Inset: Obscure through mail-order kudzu blossoms are purple and fragrant. catalogues. By

Garden Talk

Lake Martin Living 17

1905, through the efforts of C. E. Pleas of Chipley, Florida, kudzu was promoted as inexpensive forage for livestock.

Based on our Extension records and old newspaper articles, it was during the late 1930s that kudzu came to Tallapoosa County.

Before you frown, consider that the countryside in rural Alabama back then was much different than it is today. History shows that just less than 100 years ago, Tallapoosa County was mostly agriculture farmland with a lot fewer trees in sight. The land grew mostly cotton and corn (31,000 acres and 7,700 acres, respectively) and the dense red clay soil was tilled and plowed heavily.

For generations, planting cotton alone depleted the Southern soils, making them less and less fertile and usable. In fact, federal statistics indicated that 26,000 bales of cotton were produced in 1910 but dramatically declined to just under 13,000 bales on average between 1928 and 1932. Soil infertility was to blame.

Soil erosion then became the biggest issue and obstacle for family farms in Alabama. It was estimated that nearly a million acres of once-fertile land in Alabama had been essentially destroyed by erosion. It’s believed that more than 7,300,000 acres were severely damaged. Despite modern farming practices, farms continued to lose topsoil.

Over time, farmers had allowed their valuable topsoil to wash and leach out from their lands and deposit in the streams and lakes. One reason for the soil erosion in the South was the absence of perennial legumes and grasses from the cropping plan.

Fletcher N. Farrington, the county agent for Tallapoosa County from 1932 to 1961, was instrumental in addressing those issues and helping farmers battle soil fertility and erosion problems. As a newly appointed county agent, Farrington was told by specialists, “You have no soil to work with in developing a program for this county.”

A soil conservation program and plan was very much needed just to save and build the soils and farms of Tallapoosa County.

In 1932, Farrington introduced a terracing program, and Extension hosted its first land terracing school. Sixteen farmers were trained on the courthouse square about how to construct terraces on their land by using mule power. By 1933, through the aid of the newly formed Tallapoosa County Soil Conservation Association, powered terracing equipment was purchased.

Farrington then helped launch a cooperative program that loaned farmers the large tractors needed to install the “Nichols terrace” method of plowing hillside cropland. The erection of terraces by power-driven equipment was conducted on at least half of the county’s farms. From 1933 to 1939, almost 40,000 acres of the 115,000 acres of cropland were terraced.

History also shows that soil erosion, a serious factor in stream pollution, began to have effects on Lake Martin. At one point during this period of time, at the mouth where Sandy Creek enters Lake Martin, there was a deposit of soil that was 465 yards long, 65 yards wide and an average of 45 feet deep.

Estimates were enough to cover the entire bed of Lake Martin 5 inches deep. Such deposits at the mouth of Sandy Creek and other streams flowing into Lake Martin improved and decreased Good Intentions

From Top: By 1938, at least 7,000 acres of kudzu had been planted in Tallapoosa County; Mr. Baker Pinkston inspects his Dadeville field of kudzu hay in 1941; In 1939, Miss Dorothy Welch was crowned Queen Kudzu by N.L. Duncan during the Kudzu Jamboree.

18 Lake Martin Living

largely due to the terracing program and efforts. By 1936, silt program. Other notable speakers in the program were Dr. accumulation was reduced by one third.

L.N. Duncan, president of Alabama Polytechnic Institute (now So what does that have to do with this awful vine? Well, Auburn University); P.O. Davis, Extension Service director; and kudzu was basically brought in as a cover crop to help keep the Farrington. soil in place. Our Extension publications said that in the 1930s, In addition to stopping erosion on unusable and unterraced kudzu reached the height of its prominence. The Soil Erosion land, kudzu was used for grazing and hay crops, with an average Service (later renamed the Soil Conservation Service and now of 2 tons of hay per acre. Farmers reported an increase of yields the Natural Resource Conservation Service) established by by grazing kudzu for their dairy cattle and hogs. Many farmers, Congress in 1933 was charged with reducing soil erosion caused including a few 4-H members, even got into the business by poor farming practices in the South. About 85 million kudzu of growing and selling kudzu plants. About 1-1/2 million plants were given to Southern landowners by the SES for land crowns (kudzu plants) were sold outside of Tallapoosa County. revitalization to reduce soil erosion and add nitrogen to the soil.

Farrington considered kudzu to be one of the county’s main The Civilian Conservation Corps also planted kudzu throughout crops and said it could one day be the leading crop in Tallapoosa the South.

County. Extension documents show there were 2 million crowns Around 1937, the curiosity of kudzu increased in Tallapoosa planted throughout 1942 to bring a total of 12,100 acres with County. Agronomists for the Alabama Experiment Station and kudzu in Tallapoosa County by 1944.

Extension Service claimed kudzu was an excellent plant for Just 10 years later, by the early 1950s, the perception of kudzu hay production, temporary grazing, erosion control and soil began to change. The praise of kudzu and its reign as king began building. Farmers and to dwindle. Kudzu had largely county agents visited become a nuisance. It had demonstration plantings spread rapidly throughout and learned more about the South because of the its potential. Kudzu was long growing season, warm considered the alfalfa for climate, plentiful rainfall and the South – a perennial lack of disease and insect forage and hay crop for enemies. Abandonment livestock. Reports from of farmland during this the same year indicate 890 time contributed to the acres had been planted uncontrolled spread of kudzu. with kudzu.

Publications further Soil conservation also state that in 1953, the remained the top concern United States Department and priority in Tallapoosa of Agriculture removed County. Kudzu soon kudzu from the list of cover became recommended on plants permissible under the gullies and roadbeds that Agricultural Conservation were eroding badly and Program. In 1962, the Soil Efforts to Combat Land Issues deemed unproductive.

Conservation Service limited In 1932, farmers began terracing their land to stop soil erosion in its recommendation of kudzu Kudzu was thought to order to save their farms and preserve their way of life. have many values and to areas far removed from would help slow down developed areas. the movement of soil and water. Interestingly, the government Finally in 1970, the USDA listed kudzu as a common weed in offered $6 to $8 per acre as an incentive for farmers to plant their the South. Congress voted in 1997 to place kudzu on the Federal land in kudzu.

Noxious Weed list, where it remained for a few years. While no Move over cotton, because by 1939 kudzu was king. Its longer on that list, kudzu is currently listed as a noxious weed in rapid growth and success was praised all around, including by 13 states. It is estimated that kudzu may cover more than 1/4 of a many politicians and community leaders. Kudzu, along with million acres in Alabama. other legume plantings, was heralded as the start of a rebuilt Looking back, some would say planting kudzu was a major agriculture for Tallapoosa County and the piedmont area of East mistake. No one could have foreseen that it would spread and Alabama. The popularity of the wonder vine in the late ’30s and take over like it did. At the time, when our landscape and culture ’40s led to the formation of kudzu clubs throughout the South. was primarily agriculture and family farms, kudzu was indeed Amazingly, there were even kudzu festivals and kudzu queens. recommended. The people believed in it, and it did accomplish The pinnacle, most fascinating moment was on July 19, 1939, what they hoped. The new soil conservation practices back then when Tallapoosa County held its very first Kudzu Jamboree in saved the land, farms, water and people’s way of life. The land Camp Hill. Sponsored by the Dadeville Kiwanis Club, 3,500 of Tallapoosa County that we love and know today might have people attended this event, which included barbecue, music, been forever changed and look quite different if not for King singing, farm tours and various speakers. And yes, they had a Kudzu. Like it or not, that nasty old green vine remains and still pageant and crowned a kudzu queen, as well as a kudzu king. holds it all together, deeply rooted in our Southern history.

The featured speaker was Dr. H. H. Bennett, chief of the Soil Conservation Service in Washington, D.C., who lauded the ~ Shane Harris is the Tallapoosa County Extension once-lowly kudzu and praised the county’s land use conservation Coordinator for the Alabama Cooperative Extension.

Lake Martin Living 19

Five SBA loan misconceptions debunked

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labama business owners often inquire about the benefits of a Small Business Administration loan.

In many cases, folks have heard about SBA loans, but they might not fully understand them and how they can be used.

So whether considering an SBA loan for a business or learning about it for the first time, here are five common misperceptions, with the actual facts related to each one. n The SBA lends money directly to business owners.

Actually, the SBA works with qualified lenders that lend small businesses the money. The SBA guarantees a portion of the loan, allowing the lender to assume more risk and make loans that they might not conventionally approve. n SBA loans are only for purchasing inventory.

While SBA loans are often used to buy inventory needed to start or grow businesses, there are many other ways to use SBA-backed funds. SBA loans also could be used to buy owner-occupied real estate, upgrade facilities, purchase machinery or finance payroll. They could be used for expanding a business, which could include acquiring a complementary business, buying out a business partner or launching a new location.

MONEY MATTERS

n SBA loans are only for startups.

Approximately 25 to 30 percent of SBA loans are used to start new ventures, but that means more than 65 percent of SBA loans are used to expand existing businesses. In fact, many business owners take advantage of SBA loans to purchase real estate or to support strategies designed to grow their businesses.

n SBA loan interest rates are higher than other loans.

This isn’t necessarily the case.

Kate Meriwether Remember, lenders are making the loan, so they’re setting the interest rate, which reflects the risk that the loan presents for the lender. Rates can be negotiated between the borrower and lender, but they are subject to SBAregulated base rates. n SBA loans take a long time.

Many business owners assume that obtaining an SBA loan will take several months, but loans often could be closed quicker than that. Over the past few years, the SBA has worked to shrink the processing time involved in receiving a loan, while lenders have invested in technology and modified application forms that make the process more efficient.

Valley Bank’s SBA team is just one of many that could educate small business customers on this type of loan and help debunk SBA myths. ~ Kate Meriwether is vice president, SBA business development officer for Valley Bank. For more information on SBA loans, contact her at 205-730-3936 or visit valley.com.

Valley Bank is a Member of the FDIC and Equal Opportunity Lender.

20 Lake Martin Living

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Get screened this month

eptember is the month designated to focus on many health issues, including prostate cancer and peripheral arterial disease. According to the American Cancer Society, other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. The American Cancer Society’s estimates for prostate cancer in the United States for 2019 are about 174,650 new cases of prostate cancer and about 31,620 deaths from prostate cancer.

About one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, behind only lung cancer, and develops mainly in older men and in African-American men. About six out of 10 cases are diagnosed in men aged 65 or older, and it is rare before age 40. The average age at time of diagnosis is around 66.

Prostate cancer can be a serious disease, but most men diagnosed with it do not die from it. In fact, more than 2.9 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point are still alive today. Early Susan Foy diagnosis and treatment is the key.

Russell Medical will host a prostate screening on Sept. 20, from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This quick and easy screening consists of a prostate specific antigen blood test and a physician exam done by Dr. Lancing Patterson, UAB Medicine urologist. The screening will be held in Suite 100 of the Professional Building at Russell Medical. Cost is $10.

Reservations are required and may be made by calling the marketing department at 256-329-7322.

Another issue that people should be aware of is peripheral arterial disease. P.A.D. narrows leg arteries, reduces blood flow and affects between 8 and 12 million people in the U.S. While the majority of people with the condition don’t know they have it, they have the same

Medical News

five-year mortality rate as those with breast and colorectal cancer.

Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine at Russell Medical treats chronic wounds with underlying conditions of the disease, as well as performs non-invasive tests for P.A.D. Medical staff counsels patients on how to manage the illness, which if left untreated could lead to lower limb amputation and death.

In addition to chronic wounds on the toes, feet or legs, the experts at the wound care clinic give the following risk factors and symptoms of P.A.D.: n Those who smoke or have a history of smoking have up to four times greater risk. n One in every three diabetics over the age of 50 is likely to have the disease. n People with high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol or a personal history of vascular disease, heart attack or stroke are at greater risk. n As you get older, the risk increases since the disease develops gradually.

While some people dismiss symptoms, as a sign of aging, nearly everyone with P.A.D. is unable to walk as fast or as far as they could before.

A typical sign is experiencing fatigue or a heaviness in the limbs or cramping in the buttocks, thigh or calf after walking or climbing stairs; and then, feeling better after resting.

Leg or foot pain may cause trouble sleeping for those with P.A.D. The skin of the feet may change color and become pale or turn blue.

Wound Care & Hyperbaric Medicine at Russell Medical offers hyperbaric oxygen therapy to increase the blood flow and reintroduce the body’s innate ability to heal. Other treatments may include making lifestyle changes to modify diet or add an exercise regimen, physical therapy, take medications and in extreme cases, surgery may be needed.

For more information on managing P.A.D. and treating chronic or infected wounds, contact the wound care team, located at 55 Alison Dr., at 256-215-7450. ~ Susan Foy is marketing director for Russell Medical.

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

Lake Martin Living 21

Club bonds over shared love of unique instrument Lake Martin Dulcimers play tunes around the county STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTOS BY SHANNON MCDUFFIE

22 Lake Martin Living

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hile the Lake Martin Dulcimer Club may be only two years old, the ancient instrument its members play has been around for a long time.

About 30 members who play the mountain dulcimer – often referred to as Appalachian dulcimer – rehearse weekly and love sharing their talents with the community.

A Los Angeles musician dubbed the last Saturday in August Play Music on the Porch Day six years ago. This year, along with thousands of musicians in at least 17 countries, Tallapoosa County had at least one group participating – the Lake Martin Dulcimer Club.

The group plays all kinds of fun songs, she said, from fiddle tunes, old folk songs and church hymns, and they are always learning something new.

Gerry White, co-president of the club, credits Walls, who loves everything musical, for keeping the group on the track.

“I learned to play the dulcimer; then, offered to teach a few people at our church, Red Ridge United Methodist Church in Dadeville, and it grew from there to people from other churches and around the area. Some of us have experience playing an instrument and reading music, and some of us don’t, but we play well together,” Walls said.

Walls said the dulcimer is not difficult to play, so it is accessible to all ages. It has a fret board, which is a major scale, and three to four strings. Dulcimers range in cost from $60 to $2,000, varying in shapes, types of wood, sizes, colors and tuning pegs. A few of the members and members’ husbands have even learned to make repairs on the instruments when needed.

“We want to branch out and find more people who want to learn. If someone is interested in playing, I am happy to teach them, and I have dulcimers to loan while they are learning. I can also give them pointers on where to find one to buy,” Walls said.

Club members are excited that they have had so many invitations to play at churches, nursing homes and folk music festivals. Officers for the club coordinate the events and make sure enough members, usually 15 to 20, are available to perform on requested dates. Since the dulcimer is not a loud instrument, they must be played inside or at least under a covered area, to be heard. At this time, there is no charge for performances.

Last summer, club members attended the Lee County Old Time Music Festival in Loachapoka, Alabama, which they said was a great cultural experience.

“We had a great time in Loachapoka jamming with other musicians. We learned so much from a clinician who was there teaching and from the workshops we attended,” Walls said.

Club member Jackie Wilborn said she played percussion from grade school through high school. After retirement, she tried the piano, but the dulcimer has become her instrument of choice.

Her husband has taken lessons as well, so they can enjoy the music together.

“The club is very important to me. We have such a wide age range, and so many new friendships have formed. They are just a good group of Christian people to be around,” Wilborn said.

The Lake Martin Dulcimer Accessible to Al Ages Club practices at the Tallapoosee Top: The dulcimer Historical Museum in Dadeville at typically has three to 11 a.m. on Friday mornings. Patrons four strings; Left: More of the museum can hear the group than 30 members of the Lake Martin play as they browse the exhibits. For Dulcimer Club rehearse more information about the club at the Tallapoossee or lessons, contact Kim Walls at HIstorical Museum kkcwalls@gmail.com. weekly.

Lake Martin Living 23

24 Lake Martin Living

The Essence of Team Spirit Mascots play significant role in community pride

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STORY BY JUDITH JAGER & PHOTOS BY LIZI ARBOGAST

t’s no secret that in the South, traditions reign supreme – and school mascots are no different. Family traditions, holiday traditions and especially the traditions associated with schools and athletic teams. Around Tallapoosa and Coosa counties, all of the schools carry out their missions with specific rituals and dynamic, unrelenting spirit emanting from their mascots.

Dadeville High School Tigers

Dadeville High School is home to Davey the Tiger, who, according to varsity cheer sponsor Deanna Jennings, is the essence of Dadeville High School and Dadeville Tiger Athletics.

“Davey is always available and School Spirit willing to support a variety of Left: Davey the Tiger activities and events at school and is Dadeville's mascot; in the community,” Jennings said.

Below: The Horseshoe Students and DHS faculty can Bend Generals not catch Davey at just about every only have a costumed pep rally, football game and mascot but the tank basketball game, as well as with leads sports teams onto other special events. the field before games.

“Davey brings a smile to the faces of fans of all ages. Young fans are intrigued by Davey, and older fans are entertained by him,” she said.

Jennings said during her 14 years at Dadeville High School, she can’t imagine serving another place that has as much school pride as the Dadeville Tigers.

Dadeville students and Davey can be seen proudly representing the team’s colors, yellow and black, at school functions.

The Horseshoe Bend Generals

The Generals represent everything righteous for which the Horseshoe Bend community and America stands, and the mascot exuberates pride and patriotism from start to finish during sporting events.

Horseshoe Bend High School was originally formed when smaller schools in the area came together to consolidate resources.

“The school officials at the time wanted to create a neutral mascot to bring everyone together. The rest is history,” said Horseshoe Bend Principal James Aulner.

Lake Martin Living 25

Aulner said the students feel they can relate to The General, which has helped create several memorable game day rituals and traditions for the kids to enjoy.

“We have the students line up on the football field and have our big war tank come through with The General leading the way before the football players run out,” Aulner said.

The Horseshoe Bend Generals exude pride and patriotism, and following the tank walk, the crowd stands attention for The Star-Spangled Banner and a towering U.S. Flag.

“We also implemented a cannon shot for each time a touchdown is scored,” Aulner said.

The Reeltown Rebels

extracurricular activities. The school has claimed the Wildcat mascot since its inception in 1950, and at the time, BRHS was considered the most modern school in Alabama.

“Our mascot, Alex the Wildcat, was always such a crucial part of the wildcat spirit,” said Hayden Gunn, BRHS alum.

Gunn served as varsity head cheerleader during her time at Benjamin Russell before graduating in 2003.

“Alex is always so great at incorporating entire families into the action during games,” she said.

Alex always goes above and beyond to keep his routines fresh and the enthusiasm alive, according to Marie Parks, a former head cheer coach at BRHS. “He even traveled with us. Alex would go to cheer camp where he would compete against the other mascots,” Parks said. “The little kids flock to Alex at ball games and are always excited to take photos with him.”

Although it’s changed over the years, the Reeltown High School mascot has always been a source of encouragement for the student body.

“Back in the ’30s and ’40s we used to be the Reeltown Rattlers. At some point, we changed mascots, but we’ve only Central Coosa had three head football High School coaches in our history,” The Coosa Central said Matt Johnson, Cougars proudly commit current head football to their school motto coach and Reeltown alum. of “Dream It, Believe It, Johnson said for as Achieve It.” long as he can remember, Although the Cougars the school teams have attend a small school, been known as the their dedication is large, Reeltown Rebels, with and the Cougar mascot Rufus the Rebel as the symbolizes the strength of mascot. each student.

“Rufus has always The Cougar even played a lead role in the helped one student break K through 12 pep rallies barriers and become part before home games,” of the school spirit.

Johnson said. “He and “This year, the mascot the cheerleaders lead was worn by a special everyone in a spirit needs student who competition per grade, tried out and earned and he has this huge spirit the position,” said stick he carries around.

Superintendent Andi Whichever grade has the Character, Class, Pride Wilson.

BRHS' Alex the Wildcat goes above and beyond to interact with most spirit receives the “The size of a school fans and energize crowds. spirit stick from Rufus.” or system does not define Johnson said one of the what you can do. We may best parts about the pep rallies is that everyone gets involved and be a small system, but there is as much potential in the students creates an electric energy before game time. Rufus, along with of Coosa County as there are in any other school system around. the cheerleaders and the Reeltown Rebel Pride Marching Band, Take your role, and play it to the best of your ability,” she said. never fails to fire up a crowd.

The Cougars believe that all students must have opportunities to learn and to be successful, and that maximum student The Benjamin Russell Wildcats learning takes place in a positive environment that includes Benjamin Russell High School’s motto, “Character, Class, consistency and structure, added Wilson.

Pride,” is evident through every element of its academic and 26 Lake Martin Living

Letter to the Editor Dear Editor,

• Updated Pro Shop • Junior Golf Program • Annual Tournaments • Weekly Matches

Nice job on Dadeville’s Musical Prodigy Ryan Downing: bright, multi-talented and wise beyond his years at 14 (as seen in Lake Martin Living magazine, July 2019).

Of course, as a longtime family friend, there was no news in the article for me – I’ve known of Ryan’s talents and high intelligence for years.

The apple didn’t fall far – his parents, my dear friends Laurie and Mitchell Downing, are two of the smartest people, as well as two of the most caring parents, I know.

Thank you for spotlighting a young man who is using his God-given skills to create and add to the palette of life’s beauty. It is a reminder that in every generation, there is hope.

Regards, Tammy (Jennings) Raits DHS Class of ‘78

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

Lake Martin Living 27

Waverly Community BBQ Fun-filled day revolves around decades-old recipe

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STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS COURTESY OF KATHY OVERFELT

or the 28th year, more than 70 volunteers will gather to bring the annual Waverly Community BBQ to life on Oct. 19 at the Waverly Community Center Pavilion. Members of the Waverly Community Club will bust out its prominent 400-gallon cast iron syrup kettle to cook up about 300 gallons of its muchanticipated Brunswick stew.

“It really is the best barbecue in the state,” said Kathy Overfelt, secretary of the Waverly Community Club.

Each year, the club sells homemade barbecue as its largest fundraiser of the year, and the proceeds go to community projects and to help needy families in Waverly.

“Waverly takes care of its own. We disburse funds for town needs, in addition to families’ necessities, food, appliances, etc.; we make sure people are taken care of,” said Overfelt.

Community Club member Becky Combs’ husband, 28 Lake Martin Living

Emory, created the original recipe. While he no longer does the cooking, the club has the overnight process down to a science.

“We start at 4 p.m. the day before the event, and all the meat is ground by hand. We also pre-cook about 50 Boston butts,” said Combs. “People come in shifts to stir the massive pot of stew all night. Four people at a time come for two-hour shifts.”

The barbecue sale usually attracts at least 500 in attendance, and food typically sells out that day. Anything leftover is frozen and usually sold within the next few weeks to community members as they request it.

“It all goes fast,” said Combs.

Along with the delectable food offerings, the annual event features door prizes, an auction and live Southern music and country favorites like Barnyard Bingo. An SEC tent also is set

up on site to air whatever the big college football game of the day may be.

A Waverly local’s mother handmade a number of beautiful quilts, and each year one is raffled off at the Waverly BBQ. Even though she has passed, her son still donates a quilt to each year’s event for one lucky recipient to win.

“We also allow vendors on site free of charge. We just ask that there are no food vendors, since that’s how we make our money,” said Combs. “We urge more vendors to come out, and we ask each of them to donate an item to our auction.”

The Waverly Baptist Church hosts a baked goods sale for those craving something sweet.

“The event has varied from year to year, but it’s evolved and stayed fresh over time,” said Overfelt.

People are welcome to bring chairs and animals on leashes, but please no alcoholic beverages.

Family Fun The Waverly Community Clockwise from top left: Club has been active for Vendors display their works nearly 50 years, and the on site; Southern music Waverly BBQ began with plays throughout the day; cooking a small amount of The covered pavilion food under the pecan tree provides places to eat in the Community Center’s and gather; A handmade front yard. The club meets quilt is donated each year for a raffle; Pony once a month to discuss how rides are available for to best assist with the needs in children; Dozens of stirrers the Town of Waverly. are needed to cook the For information, contact barbecue; Volunteers the barbecue committee at help out on the day of the 334-559-8663 or visit the event, as well.

Waverly Community Club Facebook page.

Lake Martin Living 29

Take ownership of your shot pattern

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imagine that everyone who plays the game of golf backspin. For most golfers, I suggest learning how to hit two would like to improve his or her game. I’m no genius, main bunker shots: the high soft shot for a closely tucked but I do know that in golf, players are rarely satisfied pin and the chunk-and-run. The backspin shot that lands with everything they’re doing. and immediately stops takes a great deal of practice. The Isn’t it odd, oftentimes when you hit the ball your best, high soft shot and chunk-and-run are higher percentage your short game suffers; or when your putting well, you shots. can’t seem to get off the tee? There are those few times when Golfers mostly want to hit a shot that they don’t naturally both short game and long game seem to be in good shape, have. Players who hit a draw wished that they could hit the but you just make some dumb decisions on the fade, and those who fade the ball wish that they course. That’s what makes this game so tough. It hit the draw. is hard to get it all together at the same time and If possible, schedule a time where a also for a prolonged period of time. professional could watch you play on the course.

Everyone could use help in the game; He should be able to show you how to get however, before seeking a golf lesson, really try the most out of your fade or draw, simply by to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses. To showing you how to aim properly or explaining me, there are too many people trying to learn the good and bad aspects of your game from a the perfect golf swing, instead of learning how different perspective. to play the game well.

Hopefully, the pro you use is or was a very If you have a slice in your shot and hit it an good player at some point and will be capable adequate distance, that’s really not a bad thing at of teaching you how to be more efficient in all – you’ve taken out the left side of the course. a round of golf. And by efficient, I mean not You’re one of the lucky ones; you know where throwing away so many strokes by playing the your ball is going. The same thing applies to a higher percentage shot rather than the low player who hits a hook. What you need to do is percentage shots. learn to aim at a starting point during each shot So I suggest you get the most out of your Dave Jennings that will allow enough room for the curvature game. Stop guessing, and go to a qualified of your shot. Bubba Watson relies on two of the instructor who is sincerely interested in your ugliest shots in the game – a huge slice and a growth of the game. If you find someone you huge hook. If he had to hit the ball straight in order to score trust completely, buy into his instruction. Don’t expect an well, he would lose his PGA Tour card. Bubba knows how to immediate 10-shots-per-round improvement; be patient hit these shots and mostly rely on them by demand. with the process.

My first suggestion is to take ownership over your shot When I taught golf for a living, I preferred to have my pattern. If you are not confident in what shot is coming up students commit to at least five lessons. For the best results, next, take a golf lesson to work on technique. Rather than these lessons should be taken once a week or once every two asking the professional to help you to hit it straight, ask him weeks, depending on availability. to help you to hit one predominant shot – fade or draw, I love watching people improve their games. After a whichever one is in your DNA, and learn to love it. thousand years playing golf, I know it’s not always about the If your scores suffer due to a bad short game, face the swing. It could be managing the game around the course problem before taking a lesson. If the issue is that you don’t or learning a pre-shot routing that allows the players to hit the ball solid, you may need to get a lesson on technique. visualize their shots before they address the ball. Everyone If you hit chips and pitches solid but are not getting it close is different. This game is extremely challenging, but there to the hole, start using your imagination. Rather than are few better feelings than hitting a great drive; chipping a focusing on the hole when addressing the ball, think about shot in for a birdie; sinking a double breaking putt on the the spot that you want that pitch or chip to land. Give last hole for the best score of your life; or just whipping the consideration to how far the ball may roll before it comes to daylights out of your friends. I love them all. rest; then, focus on the landing spot and trust your decision.

Enjoy yourself. Invest in some professional help. It could This may take a bit of practice to determine the ratio of carry make you almost as happy as winning the lottery. OK, that to roll, but a little time invested in this with your scoring may be an exaggeration, but you just might love playing clubs will quickly pay huge dividends. more than ever.

In your greenside bunker play, are you hitting solid shots If I miss you on the first tee, I hope to see you in the but not getting it close? Do you often leave the ball in the practice area. bunker or blade it over the green? You may need some lessons on technique. There are various types of bunker ~ Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach at Central Alabama shots that will allow the ball to land softly; some shots Community College. make the ball roll; and some shots create a great amount of

From the Tee

30 Lake Martin Living

lakemartindock.com For more information visit us online or call

334.857.2443

Lake Martin Living 31

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UAB-Russell Medical

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Cancer Center Dinner July 19, 2019 The Mill Two Eighty, Alexander City 1. Andy Graham and Bruce Pearl 2. Susie and Willie Davis 3. Laura and Mike Carlisle 4. Tom Gassaway 5. Teena Blythe and Brenda Forehand 6. Wayne Cowhick, Bruce Pearl and Susan Cowhick

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Lake Martin Bama Club Kickoff Event Aug. 14, 2019 Willow Point Country Club 1. Marcia and Scott Davis

2. Christopher, Trianna and Theresa Lawson

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3. Scooter and Charles Copeland and Jane Howell 4. Randy Adair and Mickey Sewell 5. Libby Glass and Ezra Robinson 6. Gene Gwaltney and Honey and Randy Haynes 7. Joe and Sandra McInnes and Ralph and Allyn Frohsin Lake Martin Living 33

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Alexander City Farmers Market

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Aug. 17, 2019 Broad Street Plaza 1. Hvala, Meridith and Colvin Collari 2. Carly Herrmann and Jimbo Spencer 3. Charlie Browne and Bill Anderson 4. Chad and Leanne Calhoun 5. Margarett Courtney and Barbara Muenzmay 6. James Riggins, Jessie Caver and Leshia Riggins 7. Melinda Blackwelder, Marty Rittman and Brooke Blackwelder

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Tykes in Trucks Aug. 24, 2019 Downtown Alexander City 1. Lee and Newt Sheppard and Bailey and Boone

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Moseley 2. Lexis Roberts, Talon Hudson and Braxton and April Roberts 3. Maddy, Brandi and Gunner Saffold 4. Joseph Gagne 5. Lily Kate, Monica and Jackson Allen

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6. Hailey Edwards

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Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Dadeville's Fall Festival captivates community The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber will host its third annual downtown Fall Festival on Oct. 5 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Despite courthouse square construction, the show will go on – and the family fun activities just continue to grow.

“It’s a community event; we want as many people in the city and schools to be involved as we can,” said Carol Sellers, Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber treasurer.

This year, a cheerleader showcase will engage more school spirit and invite area schools to showcase their teams.

“We’ll have a grandstand for parents, grandparents and spectators to watch and let these groups show off their great abilities,” said Sellers.

The celebration has expanded to the newly renovated Pennington Park, across from the post office. The hand-constructed stage will feature live music by local favorite River Dan, and a petting zoo and pony rides will be available in the park for children to enjoy.

The Dadeville Beautification Board has renovated the gazebo on Tallassee Street, and they will host several musical ensembles throughout the day.

Along with the crowd favorites, including face painting, bouncy houses, a slide and the train that will take the kids on a ride around the square, the fun also includes an antique car and truck show in the First Baptist Church parking lot.

“We have local vendors on site ranging from food, arts and crafts, information booths, retail, jewelry, antiques, the list goes on. We want people to have the chance to shop at our local 36 Lake Martin Living

vendors, while enjoying other free activities,” said Sellers.

In conjunction with the event, the Ducky and Pops Ward Soap Box Derby will continue its tradition of promoting quality family time. This event has become a much-anticipated part of the festival as children build and design their own soap box vehicles and race down Columbus Street to see whose is the fastest. The deadline for entries is Sept. 25, and there is no required fee to enter.

“The fall festival is one of two major chamber events that we started after we had a successful turnout from the Christmas Parade. We decided on the fall, since it’s cooler and more people would come out,” Sellers said.

The chamber ensures amenities remain free, thanks to its many sponsors, which include Farmers & Merchants Bank, Renfroe’s Market, Ivy Engaging Entertainment Creek Hospital and Hospice, Food vendors are among Three Sixty real estate, the offerings and activities Dadeville Insurance Agency, available at the festival.

Alabama Funeral Home and Cremation Centers, LaKay’s Flowers & Gifts, Little Lambs and Ivy Day School, Moore’s Hardware, Chuck’s Marina, StateFarm Insurance – Leigh Ann Tyler, Pearson’s Place Flowers & Gifts, State Rep. Ed Oliver, Sellers CPA, attorney Faye Edmondson and Tallapoosa County Commissioner George Carleton Jr. For more information on Dadeville’s Fall Festival, contact the chamber at 256-825-40149 or email chamber@dadeville.com.

Sept. 16, 23 and 30

Women’s Self-Defense Course

The Tallapoosa County Sheriff ’s Office will host a women’s selfdefense course taught by R.A.D. trained instructors from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Red Ridge United Methodist Church, 8091 county Road 34, Dadeville. The course is $25 per person and open to anyone. For more information, call 256-825-9820.

Sept. 16

Horizons Unlimited: Chris Goodman

As the hydro manager for Alabama Power, Chris Goodman is responsible for hydro-generation dams and units. He will present The Hydro Generation of Martin Dam. Horizons Unlimited is a series of programs that are held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Hwy. 280 in Alexander City. Membership is $20 per person and $30 per couple for the semester.

Sept. 20

BRHS Homecoming Parade Show your Benjamin Russell High School Wildcat spirit at 1:30 p.m. during this year’s homecoming parade through downtown Alexander City.

Sept. 21

Walking for Warriors

Tallapoosa County’s Caring Refuge will host this family-friendly event at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex to present an opportunity to honor/ support individuals and families of Tallapoosa County that have fought or are fighting battles with cancer.

There will be live entertainment with Chris Ewing, bouncy houses, face painting, food vendors and much more. Bring chairs, tents and blankets, along with family and friends from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. The group will be pre-selling T-shirts and wing plates. For more information, call 256-496-1484.

Sept. 23

Horizons Unlimited: Ruth Beaumont Cook

Ruth Beaumont Cook will present Magic in Stone: The Sylacauga Marble Story, which will highlight Geneva

Mercer, a skilled artist and sculptor who was Giuseppe Moretti’s longtime assistant. Horizons Unlimited is a series of programs that are held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Hwy. 280 in Alexander City. Membership is $20 per person and $30 per couple for the semester.

Sept. 26

Hiss Golden Messenger at Standard Deluxe

Standard Deluxe in Waverly will host Hiss Golden Messenger, with opener Dee White, on the outdoor stage. Gates will open at 5:30 p.m., and Wilton’s Catering will be serving up supper in the FeedShak. Tickets are available online for $21; $1 of which supports the Durham Public Schools Foundation. Tickets will increase to $25 on the day of the show. Event is BYOB, but please no glass. Bring chairs, blankets and friends.

Sept. 30

Horizons Unlimited: Sandra Fuller

Sandra Fuller has been director of Tallapoosa County Tourism since December 2018 and will present Tourism in Tallapoosa County.

Horizons Unlimited is a series of programs that are held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Hwy. 280 in Alexander City.

Membership is $20 per person and $30 per couple for the semester.

Oct. 1

National Night Out

Located in Strand Park, downtown Alexander City, National Night Out will showcase various public safety and emergency response agencies that operate in Alexander City and surrounding areas, including state, county and EMA, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Local businesses and church groups also will participate. This will be a public information event only – no sales by vendors are permitted.

Oct. 5

6th Annual BGHS Alumni & Friends Car Show

Spectators are admitted free of charge for this annual event at Bibb

Graves High School in Millerville.

Activities include 50/50 tickets, a money tree, games, door prizes, music, crafts and more from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Register cars for $20 each between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. Breakfast is available from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Crafts setups are $20. Call Patsy Sullivan at 205-317-7798 for crafting information; call Richard Bearden at 256-596-0073 or Ray Camp at 256-3543311 for event information.

Oct. 5

Lake Martin Living Art Walk

Lake Martin Living will put a new spin on the annual art and photography contest this year when it launches its inaugural Lake Martin Living Art Walk in downtown Alexander City, sponsored by Main Street Alexander City. Art will be on display in the streets, on sidewalks, in alleys and inside five exhibit locations.

Downtown merchants will stay open later, and patrons will be able to vote for the People’s Choice award winner throughout the day at participating merchants. There will be $1,000 in prizes awarded. The deadline to enter art is 5 p.m. on Sept. 20. Entry fee is $15 per submission, with a limit of five per person. Drop off artwork at TPI, 548 Cherokee Rd., Alexander City. For information, see the ad on page 43 or call Amy or Betsy at 256-234-4281.

Oct. 5

Memories of Growing Up at Lake Martin Dam Workers Camp

StillWaters Residential Association will host a presentation by Barbara Cole, who grew up in the early ’30s as a child in the workers’ camp at Lake Martin Dam. The presentation will be held from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Community Room of the SWRA Administration Building, 1816 Stillwaters Dr. Refreshments will be served. Seating is limited. To reserve seats, call 334-332-1162 or e-mail cmsg71@gmail.com.

Oct. 7

Horizons Unlimited: Birmingham Harmony Belles

Kiley Watson, Louisa Elmore and Nancy Hornsby formed the Birmingham Lake Martin Living 37

Harmony Belles in 2013 and perform music mainly from the Big Bands and Swing era, along with a medley of patriotic songs. They will present The Hits of the ’40s and ’50s Swing Era. Horizons Unlimited is a series of programs that are held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Hwy. 280 in Alexander City. Membership is $20 per person and $30 per couple for the semester.

Oct. 11-16

Alabama Art Colony

Registration for the five-day Sarah Carlisle Towery Alabama Art Colony will remain open until Oct. 11 and includes instruction, special activities, lodging, meals and snacks. Artists should bring their own supplies. Following dinner on Oct. 13, participating artists will display their works for sale at Children’s Harbor Cabin 10 for the public. The public also is invited to an art walk, which will be held Oct. 14 at The Ridge Clubhouse.

There is no charge for admission, and wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be available while The Bank Walkers provide entertainment. There will be two raffle opportunities at the art walk, including a Sarah Carlisle Towery oil-on-canvas and an autographed copy of Dan McCaw’s A Proven Strategy for Creating Great Art. For information, visit alabamaartcolony.org.

Oct. 11

Fall Boogie Prenight

Lilly Hiatt and a full band will take the stage at the Little House at Standard Deluxe in Waverly at 7:30 p.m. the night before this year’s Fall Boogie. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and supper will be served in the FeedShak at 6 p.m. Tickets are limited to 60 and will be $22. Purchase them online at StandardDeluxe.com.

Oct. 12

39th Annual Oktoberfest

Alexander City Parks & Recreation will host its annual Oktoberfest at Charles E. Bailey Sportplex with vendors, music, entertainment, children’s activities and a car show from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Email megan.blake@alexandercityal.gov for more information.

Oct. 12

Fall Boogie Rock ‘n’ Roll Show

The 8th Annual Fall Boogie is the offspring of the Old 280 Boogie, which 38 Lake Martin Living

is held each spring. Set on the grounds of Standard Deluxe in Waverly, the event features all-day music with Revel in Dimes; Dexateens; Teardrop City; Bohannons; Neighbor Lady; Exotic Dangers; and Dogwood Lung; along with vendors and food trucks. Gates will open at 11 a.m., and the show runs until about 9 p.m. Advance tickets are available for $22 until Sept. 20; then, they will increase to $30. Bring chairs and coolers but please no glass. For information or to purchase tickets, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

Oct. 19

4th Annual Dirt Road Century

Starting at Standard Deluxe in Waverly, Terra Firma Cycling will host bikers on a 30-, 60-, or 100-mile loop during a selfsupported dirt road race. There will be aid stations along the route with food and water. The race ends at Standard Deluxe with music, food and beverages. The race is sold out, but the public is welcome to attend the after-party at Standard Deluxe from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, visit terrafirmacycling.com/ standard-deluxe-dirt-road-century-1.

Oct. 19

28th Annual Waverly BBQ

Hosted by the Waverly Community Club, this annual celebration from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 2075 Patrick St., Waverly, includes a silent auction, quilt raffle, arts and crafts, Barnyard Bingo, T-shirt sales, music and a door prize. Watch SEC football in the Tailgate Tent. Purchase barbecue by the plate or take some home.

Food service begins at 10 a.m. To preorder Boston butts, call 334-559-8663.

For information, turn to page 28.

Oct. 21

Horizons Unlimited: Dr. Mark Conversino

Dr. Corversino joined the faculty of the Air War College in 2002 following his retirement from active duty with the Air Force. He will discuss the Hot Topic of the Day. Horizons Unlimited is a series of programs that are held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Hwy. 280 in Alexander City. Membership is $20 per person and $30 per couple for the semester.

Season-Long Events Alexander City Farmers Market

The Farmers Market at Broad Street Plaza will remain open through September. Find fresh produce – including blueberries, tomatoes, peppers, beans and corn – along with honey, jams, jellies, handmade art and more. Vendors will be open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. For more information, contact Main Street Alexander City at 256-329-9227.

Millerville Trade Day

Bibb Graves School on state Route 9 hosts this trade day on the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. with free outside setup for vendors, yard sale, flea market and swap-meet items (no food vendors). Donations from sales to BGHS Alumni and Friends Association would be appreciated. There will be a designated area to bring vehicles for sale with $20 donation to BGHSAFA upon sale. For information, contact Bruce Lowery at 205-522-5794.

Alabama Wildlife Federation Naturalist Hikes

Every Tuesday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m, hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced Alabama Nature Center naturalist by your side. Learn how to bird or identify plants and animals; splash through the creek; or catch insects in the meadow. General admission applies and is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. The Alabama Nature Center is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. For more infromation, visit alabamawildlife.org.

​Alabama Wildlife Federation Creature Feature

Every Thursday at 3:30 p.m, come learn about Alabama’s woods, water and wildlife. Get up close and personal with some of the creatures you may find in your own backyard, and even some you may have never heard of. General admission applies and is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. The Alabama Nature Center is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Visit alabamawildlife.org for information.

Yoga on the Green

Perfect for beginners or seasoned practitioners, this free yoga session starts

at 7 a.m. on The Town Green at Russell Crossroads every Saturday through September. Just bring a mat and water.

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 Fridays and Saturdays 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.

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. For more information, contact Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724.

Worship on the Water

Dadeville First United Methodist Church partners with New Water Farms to host non-denominational worship services every Sunday through Sept. 29 at 8:30 a.m. New Water Farms is located at 460 Civitan Rd. in Dadeville.

Charity Bingo at Niffer’s Place Lake Martin

Niffer’s, 7500 state Route 49 in Dadeville, hosts charity bingo every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Cards are $1 each, and funds go to participating charities.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

The third Saturday of each month, volunteers throughout the community are encouraged to meet at Broad Street Plaza at 8:30 a.m. to pickup supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. For information, contact Jacob Meacham at jacob. meacham@alexandercitychamber.com.

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 334-301-5317 or Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506.

Coffee & Connections

Every third Tuesday of the month, the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking event at 8 a.m. open to any chamber member. Participants should meet at the TPI bullpen at the Lake Martin Innovation Center for coffee, a light breakfast and a chance to network with community members.

Fourth Fridays at EPAC

The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the fourth Friday night of each month at 6:30 p.m. on state Route 9 in Equality.

Visit the Equality Performing Arts Center Facebook page for a schedule of upcoming artists.

To have an event listed in Lake Martin Living’s calendar, email date, time and detailed information to editor@ lakemartinmagazine.com.

Lake Martin Living 39

9

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

9

Power lines

280

18

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

14

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Flint Hill Church

22

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Pleasant Grove Church

25

11

9

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

6

Seman

4 Camp Kiwanis

9

10 1 Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko w

ali

ga

2

19 5

Union Landing

21

Walnut Hill

y

20 24

Stillwaters

7 Ba

22 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

Church in The Pines

80

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

8 63 17 9

Equality

231

16

57

12 24

Dadev

280

26

Liberty Church

20

Jacksons Gap

23

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

15

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic Santuck

11 Kent Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

40 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

22

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

hoe Bend nal Park

6 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026 7 Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

Restaurants & Venues

CHAMBERS COUNTY

ville

ON TY

9 Catherine’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

50

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

Business & Shopping

280

Waverly

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

Hotels & Lodges 21 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches 22 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 23 Lake Pointe Baptist Church

8352 AL-50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293

Dock Builders 24 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 25 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment 26 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

13 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850 14 Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

50

13

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 41

ALEXANDER LANDSCAPING

DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE! Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy.

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Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Que Campus of CACC Carlisle's 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 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 The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot Touchless Boat Covers Valley Bank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

CHELSEA

The Ditsy Daisy Boutique Winn-Dixie

CHILDERSBURG Winn-Dixie

Now Located in Wetumpka 194 Fort Toulouse Road, Ste B

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.

42 Lake Martin Living

DADEVILLE

American Watersports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foodland Foshee Boat Dock 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 Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 USAmeribank

ECLECTIC

Bless Your Heart 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 Original Grace Peoples Bank

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

INVERNESS

Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Area Tree Top Family Adventure Winn-Dixie

KELLYTON

Five Star Plantation

MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market

RED HILL Citgo

SYLACAUGA

Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly on 21

TALLASSEE

Chamber of Commerce Community Hospital Community Medical Arts Center Covington Healthcare Eagle Fuels Ivy Creek Game Day Clips Hornsby & Sons Body Shop Mitchell Veterinarian Hospital Paris Mullins Jr, OD Parker Tire & Service Center PrimeSouth Bank Tallassee Board of Education Tallassee City Hall Tallassee Community Library Tallassee Eagle Tallassee Family Dentistry Tallassee Internal Medicine Clinic The Tallassee Tribune Three Lake Dental

WALNUT HILL

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA

The Wetumpka Herald

Event Description Lake Martin Living magazine will host a juried art walk from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 5 in the arts and entertainment district of Alexander City, with an awards reception at 5 p.m. at Lake Martin Area United Way with wine and hors d’oeuvres. Event will include periodic outdoor music.

Art will be on display on Main Street. Other exhibit locations will include Ocie & Belle’s, Lake Martin Pizza Co., Emporium Wine, Fermenter’s Market on the Green and Coffee Corner.

Attendees can place a People’s Choice Award vote inside the following retail stores for a small donation to the ACT II building fund: Cloud Nine, Makers Market, Half Moon Market & Interiors/ Carlisle’s, Downtown Girl, Merle Norman and Froshin’s Clothier.

Entry Details ➡ ➡ ➡ ➡ ➡ ➡

Now Accepting Submissions through september 20!

➡ ➡

➡

Entries must reflect local area or its lifestyle. $15 per entry fee submission.

Limit five entries per person.

Entry deadline is Sept. 20 at 5 p.m. Artwork must delivered to the TPI office, 548 Cherokee Road.

Each entry must be clearly labeled on the back with artist’s name and contact information.

Submission must be ready to hang or provide an easel.

Pick up submissions between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. from United Way or pick up at TPI, between Oct. 7 and Oct. 18.

Each submitting artist will be featured inside the October issue of Lake Martin Living magazine, and one of the first place award pieces will be featured on the cover.

Winners will be recognized in The Alexander City Outlook and The Wetumpka Herald as well.

Sponsors

contest prizes 1ST PLACE: $200 for art & $200 for photography 2ND PLACE: $150 for art & $150 for photography

Emporium Wine

3RD PLACE: $100 for art & $100 for photography People’s Choice winner will receive $100

Lake Martin Living 43

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44 Lake Martin Living

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Lake Martin Living 45

I

am sure everyone around these parts knows about the Wilson Brothers Band. Alexander City natives and brothers Kyle and Chad Wilson have been performing together for years, and it is so great to see them achieving their dreams.

I sat down with Kyle for some insight into the band’s journey so far.

Wilson Brothers Band wins big in Nashville Road to Stardom Chad and Kyle Wilson tour as a country music duo. Photo by Steve McCall

LH: Kyle, thank you so much for chatting with me. I heard you guys had a big month! Tell me what it was like to win Best Country Duo at the Nashville Industry Music Awards?

KW: It has been an incredible experience so far. To be recognized by our peers and receive nominations for Best Live Performance and Best Country Group/Duo is a huge accomplishment in itself. We never expected to win, but our fans pulled through for us once again. It’s a dream come true. We can’t thank you all enough – especially our family and friends back home in Alexander City.

LH: Can you share a little bit about your current album? How would you describe the vibe compared to previous periods in your musical careers?

KW: We worked really hard on this record. Our producer, Chris Rowe, pushed us as writers and singers harder than anyone. He had a great vision, and he helped bring to life our own brand of country music. As artists, we are all constantly evolving into the next phase of our careers.

Culture Shock

LH: Tell us about your singles Loving You Loving on Me and It All Looks Good From Here – both are awesome songs.

Lacey Howell Do you write all your own music or are you doing some collaborations? Who would be your dream collaborator on a song or album?

KW: Our first single Loving You Loving On Me opened up a lot of doors for us and gave us national attention. It ended up charting on Billboard and Music Row along with spending three weeks at No. 1 on Cranked Up Country Top 25. Our current single It All Looks Good From Here debuted at No. 1 on the CMT 12 Pack Countdown, where it sat for three weeks in that spot and 46 Lake Martin Living

seven weeks in the top 5.

Both songs have helped launch our careers to the next level, and the response has been overwhelming. We do write all of our own music, and we are hands-on in the studio with arrangements as well.

There may be some new names on our upcoming record.

Our fans will just have to wait and see! We will be releasing a collaborative song in the next few weeks, so stay tuned. It’s a surprise, but some of the names are very recognizable.

I would love to write a song or album with John Mayer, Cody Johnson or maybe even Vince Gill. Of course, there are so many.

Chad has his own take on this question, too. We are huge fans of great writing and songs that mean something to the listeners.

LH: I know you guys have spent a lot of time on the road this year. Do you have some downtime coming up in the fall? What are your plans, and what is your favorite thing to do when you are not working?

KW: It has been an incredible year. The touring season tends to slow down through the winter months, but we are always working. We are constantly writing, rehearsing and pushing ourselves to be better and putting out a good product. When I’m off, I like to hunt, fish and be outside. We spend a lot of time with our families and friends as well.

LH: If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing?

KW: It’s hard to imagine myself doing anything else. I honestly believe music is my calling. But I do love baseball and football, so maybe I would be in the pros – haha. Or running some kind of corner sports bar with a great kitchen!

LH: What’s 2020 look like for the band? Any big festivals or goals you are shooting for?

KW: We will be touring more than ever. Our new record will be out, and our next radio single will be released, so it will be wide open. We are definitely shooting for some bigger festivals or possibly supporting an artist or group such as Jon Pardi, Riley Green, Whiskey Myers. The CMAs or the Grammys would top the bucket list. We pray about it and trust that God will lead us down the path he has set for us. ~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and loves good wine (but isn't afraid of the boxed wine). Follow her on Facebook and Instagram @LaceyHowell.

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