Tourism levels up Changes coming at Wind Creek Hikingbeginsseason
KENNETH angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.comMULLINS erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.comBURTON tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.comHUNTER marilyn.hawkins@thewetumpkaherald.comrenee.trice@alexcityoutlook.comTRICEMARILYNHAWKINSSHERYLJENNINGSsheryl.jennings@thewetumpkaherald.com
editor@lakemartinmagazine.comBOONE Publisher STEVE editor@lakemartinmagazine.comBAKER Editor in Chief BETSY editor@lakemartinmagazine.comILER Art Director AUDRA audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.comSPEARS Business & Digital Publishing Director ANGELA
Congratulations are due for Alexander City’s Steve Forehand, who last month took on the role of president of the Alabama Wildlife Federation. We talked with Steve about what his tenure will entail and found he’s got a lot of passion for the work ahead. He shares the organiza tion’s priorities and his own heart for the role on page 32.
Digital Success Manager ELLE elle.fuller@alexcityoutlook.comFULLER Betsy Iler, Editor-in-Chief
LONNA UPTON STEVE BREANNAARNBERGMANLEYWILLMARLOWKAITLINFLEMINGPETERROUILLARD
Letter from the Editor Chairman
JULIE HARRYPETECLIFFGREGHUDSONVINSONWILLIAMSMCKENNYDENEGRE
All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of: Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 | lakemagazine.life
Marketing RENEE
Last spring, Alabama voters approved a state parks bond issue, and while it’s been a little quiet since then, plans are being made. Breanna Manley talked with Alabama State Parks Division Director Greg Lein and our own Tallapoosa County Tourism Director Sandra Fuller about what’s ahead for Wind Creek State Park. Check it out on page 24.
4 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 P erhaps by now, you’ve figured out that, even in the quiet season, it’s never really quiet at Lake Martin. There’s always something fun going on or getting ready to go on, and there are always plans under way for next season. Right off the bat this month, there’s the annual Labor Day Music Fest at Russell Crossroads. This year, the concert has been changed up from one night at Lake Martin Amphitheater with an admission fee at the gate to two nights of free music at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Learn about the bands and the schedule on page 20. Unofficially, it is the final concert series of the summer, but as summer has been stretched a little on the backside, Russell Lands will continue their Friday On The Green events into next month. So this Labor Day Music Fest event may signify that the end of summer is near but there’s still more fun and music to share as temperatures cool to perfect this fall.
ContributorsStaff
Marketing/Advertising Director TIPPY
KENNETH BOONE
And on page 52, our goal is to get you out on the trails, and the sooner you start, the longer you can enjoy the hik ing season. Lake Martin’s miles of hiking trails are ready and waiting, so strap on those boots, grab a walking stick and take an off-water adventure along the shores of Lake Martin.Here’s to seeing you out there in the quiet season.
Audience Development Director ERIN
LAKE 5SEPTEMBER 2022 As summer's heat cools this month, it's time to lace up the hiking boots and take advantage of so much more that Lake Martin has to offer, including more than 100 miles in trails through wooded areas and mountainsides, like this route through Russell Forest, a 25,000acre preserve set aside for the enjoyment of not only today's lake lovers but also future gener ations. Photo by Kenneth Boone On the Cover Stationary and Floating Docks | Pile Driving Seawalls | Boat Lifts | Boat Houses Serving Lake Martin Since 1997 docksunlimitedllc.com | 256-203-8400 MAYVILLE & WEST BEND, WIWEST BEND, WISCAGPOWE R EQUIPMENT METALCRAFT OF USMAYVILLEAISO9001Registered
6 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 805 Hospital Street LaFayette, AL 36862 385 East LaFayette Street Dadeville, AL 36853 16 Jones Hill Road Goodwater, AL 35072 V V 260 W. Walnut St. Sylacauga, AL 35150 3701 Dadeville Road Alexander City, AL 35010 Apply RespondingbytoOurJobPostingsonIndeed.com RNs and LPNs RN and LPN Management and Charge Nurse positions available, 100% pre-paid scholarships for aspiring nurses, tuition reimbursement, sign-on bonuses, short-term contracts, and we consider buying out existing employment contracts Certified CertifiedMedicationAssistantsNursing(CNA)andAssistant(MAC) Tuition FREE, paid training classes, prepaid exam fees, signon bonuses, and we consider buying out existing employment contracts. Dietary Housekeepingand Positions Excellent Pay and Benefits Low co-pay & deductible thatadditionalopportunities,receiveyear,Longevity401K,DrugHealth/Dental/Vision/PrescriptionBCBSInsurance,paidvacation,companypaidlifeinsurance,Bonusupto$1000aemployeesandtheirchildrenpriorityforscholarshipshiftdifferential,andweekenddifferentialstartsonFriday ProfessionalsTopRecruitingQualityHealthcare PM21_AD_HalfMag_RecruitRev_10.14.21.indd 1 11/4/21 11:15 AM
LAKE 7SEPTEMBER 2022 52 e- edition Lake magazine also features an online, digital edition, available 24 hours a day, free of charge. This edition is perfect to share with friends and family and provides you complete access to stories, photos and advertisements from anywhere in the world with Internet access. View our digital edition today at www.lakemagazine.life. Contents LAKE 9.MONTHLYMAGAZINE’SFEATURES: LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE TO THE LAKE 10. LAKE SCENES 13. WHERE IS LAKE? 14. LAKE MARTIN NEWS 16. CALENDAR OF EVENTS 36. NATURE OF THE LAKE 56. LAKE PROPERTY 59. HOBO 61. FAB FINDS 62. HEALTHY LIVING 64. CHEF'S TABLE 67. CHEERS! 68. BIG CATCHES 71. THE SCRAMBLE 78. PARTING SHOT 24. IMPROVEMENTS ON THE WAY Plans are in the making for improvements made possible by the state parks funding amendment. 32. STEVE FOREHAND FOR AWF Lake Martin lawyer puts his passion to work as the president of Alabama Wildlife Federation. 28. TAKING TOURISM TO A NEW LEVEL Tallapoosa County Tourism welcomes Reeltown's Katelyn Cotton to the promotional staff. 52. TIME TO HIT THE TRAILS As temperatures cool, Lake Martin shorelines offer more great times with family and friends. 20. LABOR DAY MUSIC FEST This year's end-of-summer concert gets a new venue, more music and another day for free. 40. TRUE TREASURE A treasured lake home combines old lake-cabin charm with modern amenities. 40
8 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
Last Month's Lake Levels
1 quart Zatarain’sbuttermilkCrispyCajun
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
DEL LAGO
8 pieces Conecuh sausage about 4-5 inches each, butter1/2fliedhead red cabbage
David Ranier
Sriracha mayonnaise to taste Cocktail sauce to taste
LAKE 9SEPTEMBER 2022 MonthSales July 2022 July 2019 July 2016 Numberofsales 345231 sellingAverageprice $$$1,199,925503,626470,546 Medianpriceselling $406,000$462,000$915,000 Days on the market 20115386 Total houses for sale 31825679 Inventory/salesratio 11.499.373.02
Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake
Year-to-Date
AWF'scookoffgamewildseriesraisesfunds foreducationwildlife
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
Weather Outlook for September
8 ounces Colby Jack cheese
Information from the National Weather Service.
Fish Fri 1 gallon peanut oil 8 small flour tortillas
Lake Martin cookoff team takes prize with tacos
Precipitation: 33.27 inches Avg. high temp.: 75.0 Avg. low temp.: 51.1 Avg. temp.: 63.1 Our Normal September Precipitation: 3.64 inches Avg. high temp.: 85.7 Avg. low temp.: 62.7 Avg. temp.: 74.2
Two 2-pound spotted bass, filleted (four fillets will make eight pieces of fish)
1/2 head green cabbage 1 bell pepper, thin-sliced 1/2 cup sugar
abundant fresh water fish took center stage at the Alabama Wildlife Federation Wild Game Cook-Off State Finals at AWF’s Lanark Pavilion in Millbrook.Twoofthe top three recipes used spotted bass as their cen terpieces, while a tasty bream dish rounded out the winners. “AWF’s Wild Game CookOffs prominently display that responsible hunters and anglers properly utilize the game and fish that they harvest, and it makes great and healthy table fare,” said AWF Executive Director Tim Gothard. “At the state finals, the best of the best is on full display.” Lake Martin's Alabama Ag Credit’s Taco Lot team, which created Taco del Lago with spotted bass, was crowned champion among the 10 teams that qualified for the finals by winning their regional events held across the state.
The above numbers are derived from raw sales data from the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors MLS. The sales noted above are for Lake Martin waterfront residen tial (single-family and condominium) sales only. This information is provided courtesy of Lake Martin Realty, LLC (a Russell Lands, Inc., affiliated company).
Alabama’smonth.
“We used spotted bass caught yes terday (the day before the finals) and cleaned,” said Andrew Harp, head cook on the team from Lake Martin. “They’re fresh. We took a flour tortilla, topped it with shredded cheese and put it on the grill to melt the cheese. We love the grill taste. The base is Conecuh sau sage, followed by the fried fish. We use a Zatarain’s fish fry with a little added spice. Then we top that with a custom slaw with green and red cabbage. Then we drizzle Sriracha mayo and cocktail sauce on the top. And we top that off with a lot of TACOlove.”
Summer: 491 MSL Winter: 481 MSL Highest: 490.42 Lowest: 490.3 Lake depth is measured in reference to mean sea level. For up-to-date water levels at the lake, visit apcshorelines.com. Lake elevations are subject to change. Individu als who recreate below Martin Dam and those with boats and waterrelated equipment on the lake should always stay alert to changing conditions. September 2022 Forecast Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s with average lows in the low 50s to low 60s and slightly more than 3 and a half inches of precipitation in the month of September.The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be about average and rainfall will be slightly above normal this
READER SUBMISSIONS
(1) Kaci Keel held the camera steady as Abi Sherum held her balance through a split hand stand on the floating dock at Lake Martin. (2) Arden head sports a butterfly eye at Lake Martin. (3) A Lake Martin sunset is beautiful no matter the season, as this photo from Shannyn Meadows shows. (4) Whisky contemplates the splendor of an evening falling on Lake Martin from the patio at a house in The Ridge. (5) Derrick Grooms makes a relaxing slalom run at sunset on Lake Martin. (6) Henry Chappell, 3 years old, chose a patriotic popsickle from the Yellow Top Ice Cream boat. (7) Savannah Woodley, Elle LeBrun and Summer Woodley celebrate summer at Lake Martin with a leap in Blue Creek.
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10 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 Lake Scene n People & Places Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
READER SUBMISSIONS
(1) Tony Johnson wondered who was towing who in this photo he captured on Lake Martin. (2) Smith Mountain Fire Tower is the highest point in Tallapoosa County. (3) Ava Thornton is thrilled to be on a sunset cruise near Turner Point at Lake Martin. (4) Colton Vanderberry takes on the waves at Kowaliga. (5) Kim Duffett shares the beauty of a Lake Martin sunset. (6) Skylar Herman wraps up a day at the lake by throwing a line out from the dock. (7) Tony Johnson's pup, Raj, loved rafting up for the third annual "Concert on the Dock" on Sandy Creek July 1. (8) Ben Andrews bare foot skiing near Holiday Shores on Lake Martin.
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LAKE 11SEPTEMBER 2022 Lake Scene n People & Places Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
12 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 Lake Martin’s Marine Construction Company 6732 Highway 63 South, Alexander City, AL 35010 | (256) 392-5200 | www.sunrisedocksllc.com
LAKE 13SEPTEMBER 2022 Where is Lake n People & Places Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
(1) Rick and Chona Lane and Remona and Vance Roberson took Lake magazine along to Waikiki Beach, Hawaii, to celebrate Remona being cancer free and her retirement and the 43rd anniversary for Rick and Chona Lane. (2) Doug and Barbara Reid took Lake magazine to the Matterhorn in Zumatt, Switzerland. (3) What do Indiana Jones and Lake magazine have in common? They both have been to Petra, where Aleem and Cindi Gillani stopped on their six-month cruise. (4) Hayden Futral took Lake magazine to South Dakota to see Mt. Rushmore. (5) Parker, Skip and Trye Eiland, along with Jackson Dozier, took Lake on a fishing trip in Stika Alaska.
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READER SUBMISSIONS
Russell Forest Run donates $9,000 to local education foundation Each year in late February, runners from across the South flock to RussellCrossroadsRussellfortheForestRun 5K and 10K races. And each year, the event benefits students in local schools. On Aug. 5, Russell Lands made a $9,000 donation to the Alexander City Schools sorssupportpastofsupportrace.ceedsFoundation,Educationasprofromthisyear'sBecauseoftheofthousandsrunnersoverthe13yearsandthefromsponandvolunteers, the Russell Forest Run has donated close to $110,000 to the foundation.TheRussell Forest Run 10K course has been deemed one of the more challenging courses in this part of the state mostly for the hills but that breathtaking view from atop Heaven Hill as you turn and head toward the finish line makes it all worth it. And that final mile is almost com pletely downhill as runners break for The Stables for the post-race party. Go ahead and add the date to your calendar for the 14th annual Russell Forest Run. It will be Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023.
Henry Zimmer
The expansive waterway can be enjoyed year-round, with activity highest between January and July. During summer, residents fill their time by swimming, boating, fishing, skiing, camping and golfing.
This year's run raised $9,000, bringing the total to $110,000 over 13 years
Martha Stewart’s online website, MarthaStewart.com, has ranked Lake Martin among the 15 Most Beautiful Lakes in the UnitedLakeStates.Martin stacked up against watery paradises across the country, including waterways such as Michigan’s Lake Superior and Yellowstone Lake inside the famous Wyoming park. Overall, Tallapoosa County’s 41,150 acres of crystal waters placed ninth on the list.
Martha Stewart picks Lake Martin for most beautiful lakes list
This ranking focused on Lake Martin’s beauty and history, noting the area as being home to one of the largest man-made lakes in the U.S. The lake’s diverse recreational activities were also described as a positive addition.
Lake Martin News Boat Crash in Elmore County
14 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
According to the county tourism department, Lake Martin’s size is immense with over 880 miles of shoreline. Between those vast miles, the area blends seamless outdoor leisure with parks and city entertainment venues.
William Marlow
Auburn head basketball coach Bruce Pearl was the mar quee speaker for the Lake Martin Auburn Club’s annual meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 17. The meeting, held at the Willow Point Golf and Country Club at 6 p.m. included dinner and a cash bar. Sponsorships for the club were available for $500 each, which included four dinner tickets, four drink tickets, the sponsor’s name on the Scholarship Donor Board, a private meet-and-greet with Pearl and reserved seats in the front row for Pearl’s presentation and the club auction.
Stewart is famous for her lifestyle expertise, having hosted two syndicated television programs: Martha Stewart Living, which ran from 1993 to 2004, and Martha, which aired from 2005 to 2012.
Coach Pearl visits Lake Martin for scholarship events
Staff report
Pearl has been the head coach at Auburn since 2014. He coached Auburn to the first Final Four in school history in the 2019 season. Last season, Auburn won the SEC Regular Season Championship, along with Pearl winning the SEC Coach of the Year. Also on the calendar for the Auburn Club was The Lake Martin Auburn Club Scholarship Golf Tournament on Aug. 22. For $500 a person, or $2,000 for a team of four, players got to play the Willow Branch course with breakfast and lunch provided. All proceeds from the events went to the Auburn Club, to provide scholarships and opportunities for prospective students. The club’s goal was to raise over $50,000 between the two events.
A crash involving a Stratos bass boat, and a personal watercraft occurred at approximately 2:45 a.m. Saturday, July 30, resulting in injuries of the individuals involved. The operator and the passenger on the personal watercraft both sustained injuries and were transported to the Russell Medical Center in Alexander City. The operator of the bass boat was also injured and received medical treatment. The crash occurred on Lake Martin in Kowaliga Bay near the Anchor Bay Marina in Elmore County. Deputies with the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, members of Red Hill Volunteer Fire Department, Kowaliga Volunteer Fire Department and Troopers from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Marine Patrol Division all responded to the scene and assisted with the crash. Nothing further is available as Troopers with ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division continue to investigate.
Staff report
Lake Martin Resource Association, Alabama Power Co., Russell Lands, Green for Life Enviromental, Wind Creek State Park, Lake Martin Dock Co., and TowBoatU.S. Lake Martin are once again partnering to coordinate the annual cleanup of Lake Martin. In 2021, the combined efforts of more than 450 volunteers removed nearly 16 tons of trash, which included a large number of automo tive tires from the lake’s shoreline and adjacent roadways. This year’s effort will once again be focused on littered shoreline, as well as roadways surrounding Lake Martin. Additional efforts will be made to get more neighborhoods throughout the Lake Martin com munityVolunteersinvolved.are again encour aged to work independently with their cleanup efforts and deliver bagged trash to dumpsters, which will also be located at the Kowaliga Public Ramp, Wind Creek State Park Marina, Union Public Boat Ramp, Real Island Marina, Siggars Crossroads and state Route 34. If transporting the bagged trash proves to be difficult, arrangements can be made to have it picked up, both on the shoreline and roadside.
Supplies will be made available, and volunteers who deliver bagged trash or items to the dumpsters that have been retrieved from the shoreline of Lake Martin, adjacent roadsides or neighborhoods in the Lake Martin community will receive a custom designed T-shirt featuring artwork from the Renew our Rivers art contest held annually at Stephens School. n Volunteers are encouraged to pick up supplies at dumpster loca tions beginning at 8 a.m. on both Friday, Nov. 4, and Saturday, Nov. 5. n Trash could be deposited in the dumpsters on Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. n Volunteers in the Real Island area will have access to dumpsters located at Real Island Marina. n Saturday volunteers will be directed to areas within Wind Creek State Park boundaries.
LAKE 15SEPTEMBER 2022
LMRA announces annual Renew Our Rivers cleanup dates
n On Saturday, local youth groups are invited to clean designated areas at Wind Creek State Park. Snacks and cold drinks will be provided. n Volunteers will be available at the dumpster sites to assist in unloading boats or vehicles during the hours of the clean up.For more information, contact John Thompson at 1942jthompson420@gmail.com. Mark your calendar for this year's cleanup on Nov. 4 and 5
Sept. 14-16
16 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
This intense studio workshop will feature artist Margaret Dyer teaching traditional pastel or oil painting technique using a simple step-by-step method. Students will explore drawing, composition, anatomy, proportion, value, color and application. Visit tallapoosaworkshops.com for biographical information for Dyer and booking details.
Spectators enter free from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. at this Millerville event at Bibb Graves High School on state Route 9. The fee to enter a car is $20, and swap meet vendors pay $10. Food items will be available for sale, as well hot dogs, ham burgers, chips and cold drinks.
Dadeville’s annual Fall Festival is set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the downtown courthouse square. Bring the kids to the CALENDAR OF EVENTS WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN
Tallapoosa County Commission spon sors free access to dumpster locations at Stillwaters on state Route 49 and Double Bridges on state Route 63 Sept. 12 and 13; the intersection at Young’s Ferry and Mullican and at Old New Site School Sept. 14 and 15; and the courthouse annex at 395 Lee St. in Alexander City on Sept. 17 and 18. No liquids, appliances with compressors, tires, bat teries, televisions, light bulbs, computers, propane tanks or hazardous or medical waste.
Sept. 2 & 3 Labor Day at Russell Crossroads Supper Club will start this year’s Labor Day Music Fest event on Friday at 6:30 p.m. on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads, followed by The Stews at 8 p.m. On Saturday, The Bank Walkers will take the stage first at 6:30 p.m., and Hotel Fiction will close out the holiday series at 8 p.m. Bring picnics, coolers, lawn chairs and blankets and the pup on a leash to celebrate the last few weeks of summer at the lake. Visit russelllands.com/blog/events for more informa tion.
Sept. 19
Oct. 1 Car Show and Swap Meet
Oct. Alabama8 Cotton Festival
Sept. 16 Tina Marie and Friends ‘70s Revue Wear your ‘70s attire for an evening with Tina Marie and Friends at Dadeville Performing Arts Center, starting at 6 p.m. Admission is $25 at the door. Patron members use advance discount code in the center’s newsletter. For more information, visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.
Lake Martin Creativity Group
Oct. 14-15 & 21-22
Everything’s Art! will host an opening reception from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. featuring the award winning acrylic and mixed media landscapes of Lynda Thurlow. Meet the art
Dadeville Performing Arts Center will produce this read ers theater original Southern comedy at 7 p.m. Written by Alexander City’s Patti Smith, the play tells the story of an older woman and her three grown children who rent a motorhome to spread the ashes of her deceased husband at Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon and at their old home place, as he requested in his will, with hilarious results.
Sept. Throw12-18Away Days
Start the fall season at 1 p.m. at the Stillwaters Community Room with a mystery activity that is easy and fun for all levels of ability. Supplies and refreshments will be provided. This group meets every Monday to explore all areas of creativity. Contact Kay Fincher for information 256-825-2506.orvkfincher@aol.comatleaveamessageat
Sept. Raining16Dogs Gallery Opening Reception
Taking the Old Man Home Tour
The annual Cotton Festival in Eclectic offers entertainment for the whole family
Visit downtown Eclectic from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for this annual celebration of Alabama’s cotton industry. This fam ily event includes more than 150 vendors, along with the annual chicken race, an art and photo contest, dog show, classic car show and a free kids zone. Call 256-794-0379 or 334-541-3581 for more information.
ist and enjoy the opening gala. The show will remain on exhibit through the end of October. Raining Dogs Gallery is located at 129 N. Tallassee St.
The Figure in Pastel or Oil
Oct. Dadeville15 Fall Festival
Enter the tournament to help send kids to summer arts camps at Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Tournament begins at 8 a.m. at Dadeville High School, and entry includes an event T-shirt and prizes. For more information, contact Gayle Jones at 256-626-1200.
Clean Community Partnership Cleanups
The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce asks our community to spend $20 on the 20th of each month to help our local economy.
Oct. United20Way Fashion Show & Silent Auction
Mark your calendar for this annual runway event at 5:30 p.m. in downtown Alexander City. General admission tick ets are $30. Reserve a VIP table for $500. Contact Lake Martin Area United Way at 256-329-3600 for details.
Music in the Air Spend your Thursday evenings at Zazu’s Verandah on the beautiful Dadeville Square enjoying a variety of live music. The music begins at 6:30 p.m. indoors or outdoors under the verandah, depending on weather conditions and per formers’ preferences. Come early to settle in and be sure to get a seat. Free admission but please tip the musicians. Visit Zazu’s Verandah on Facebook for the weekly scheduled programs. Artists Association of Central Alabama AACA artists meet on the third Wednesday of the month at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex grounds. Meetings are followed by an open studio program, which also is open to the public. Club dues are $20 for the year. Wellborn Musclecar Museum Housed in a restored vintage auto dealership in down town Alexander City, the Wellborn Musclecar Museum collection of great American automobiles of the 1960s and 1970s is open for public viewing Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This exemplary collection includes the famed K&K Dodge, the 1970 Grand National Champion, as well as Aero cars designed for NASCAR. You will see an example of each manufacturer’s highest horsepower cars of 1970, from Dodge, Plymouth, Chevrolet, Buick, Porsche and Oldsmobile. The inventory on display changes fre quently, so every visit includes something new and exciting. Admission for adults is $11; children ages 7 to 17 admitted for $7, and children ages 6 and under are admitted for free. Call 256-329-8474 to arrange discounted group tours or pri vate tours. Email wellbornmusclecarmuseum@gmail.com.
In Dadeville, the monthly cleanup is held on the second 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 Mickey Forbus at 334-329-0905.
Children’s Library in Alexander City Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed story time every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschool-aged and younger children. In addition, the children’s library hosts board games and puzzles every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call Melissa Finley at 256-234-4644 for more information.
Oct. Pickleball15 Tournament
Season-long Events Pop Up Community Yoga Lake Martin Yoga will host 60-minute outdoor yoga classes at 9 a.m. on Saturdays at StillWaters. Park in the lot across from the tennis courts and walk along the pond to the tree by the pond. Bring mat and water. Cost is $15. Register at lakemartinyoga.com.
The Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony on Lake Martin exhibit is on display all year long at the Alexander City Board of Education building, located at 375 Lee St. $20 on the 20th
Located on state Route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open
Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit
Storytime for children aged 5 and younger is held at the Dadeville Public Library every Tuesday at 10 a.m.
Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store
Volunteers in Alexander City and Dadeville are encour aged to participate in community partnership cleanups every month. In Alexander City, the cleanups are held on the third Saturday of the month. Meet at Our Town Volunteer Fire Department at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. Contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289.
Soup to Go Drive through the parking lot at St. James Episcopal Church at 347 S. Central Ave. between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. every Tuesday and pick up a free brown bag dinner with soup, sandwich and more. COVID-19 precautions are taken by volunteers who prepare, pack and distribute the meal, which is open to the whole community.
Library Storytime in Dadeville
The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month at 7300 Central Plank Rd., state Route 9 in Wetumpka.
LAKE 17SEPTEMBER 2022 fun zone. Shop with the arts and crafts vendors and enjoy delicious food from the food vendors. There will be live music, and Auburn University will be there with a raptor show. Don’t miss the 50/50 raffle. Contact the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce at 256-825-4019 for more information.
Santuck Flea Market
Start your weekend with friends and family on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads with free music and lawn games from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. every Friday night through Oct. 7. Bring lawn chairs and picnic blankets, as well as the pup on a leash. Coolers are welcome, and food trucks will be on site. For more information, click Events at Russelllands.com.
Amateur Radio Club
The Equality Performing Arts Center invites all musi cians to its monthly jam sessions on the second Friday of each month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. There is no cover, but donations are greatly appreciated. There will be an inter mission for snacks, and people are encouraged to bring a dish to share. The EPAC is located at 560 state Route 9 in Equality. For more information, visit the EPAC Facebook page.
On the first Saturday of each month, except January and February, the Equality Volunteer Fire Department hosts a bake sale, starting at 8 a.m., and lunch is served starting at 10:30 a.m. at the old Masonic Lodge in downtown Equality. Email Richard Penton at drichardpenton@gmail.com.
The Real Island community hosts a covered dish sup per 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.
18 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and house hold 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. For more information, call 334-857-2008.
Real Island Supper
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.
Naturalist Marianne 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 RussellLands.com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.
Yoga On The Green
The Lake Martin Area Amateur Radio Club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Senior Activity Center at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City, with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. For more information, contact Michael Courtney at 256-825-7766 or Mike Smith at 256-750-5710.
Charity Bingo at Niffer’s Place Lake Martin
The Tallassee Lions Club meets every Tuesday at Cozumel Restaurant, across from the football stadium in Tallassee, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. The public is welcome to join for an hour of humor, information, civic pride and patriotism. For more information, Email Ron McDaniel at ronmcd416@gmail.com.
Friday On The Green
Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours
Equality Neighborhood Watch
Trivia Night at Niffer’s on the Lake
Second Friday Open Mic Night
The Equality Neighborhood Watch Association meets on the second Tuesday of each month at the old Masonic Lodge at 6:30 p.m. During the colder months, it meets at Equality Methodist Church on state Route 259. Email Richard Penton at drichardpenton@gmail.com.
Bring your mat and a water bottle to this free yoga class every Saturday morning all summer long. Certified instruc tors will lead routines that are appropriate for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Meet at 7 a.m. at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads.
The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the fourth Friday nights 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.
Charity Bingo at Jake’s Play charity bingo at Jake’s Restaurant at 16 Broad St., Alexander City, at 6 p.m. every Thursday night. Cards are $1, and proceeds benefit local charities.
This group meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus. Participants come and go between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5 p.m., followed by show-and-tell. Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.
Fourth Fridays at EPAC
Memory Makers Quilt Guild
Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts trivia night at 7 p.m. Winners receive Niffer’s gift cards. First place gets $40; second place gets $25; and third place gets $15. Grab a group of friends and come out for a night of games. A bonus question is posted on the Niffer’s Facebook page at 2 p.m. Thursdays.
Equality VFD Cookout and Bake Sale
Tallassee Lions Club
LAKE 19SEPTEMBER 2022 LAKEMARTINREALTY.COM Unlock the value in your lake home and trust the market leaders. DADEVILLE 256.825.9092 Allison Ladson 256.750.0711 Jim Cleveland 256.596.2220 Jerry Purcell 205.382.3417 Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 Adam Yager 205.914.0830 Cindy Scroggins 256.794.3372 Ashley Chancellor 334.202.9017 Jan Hall 256.329.6313 David Mitchell 256.212.3511 Mike Davis 256.226.1238 India Davis 256.749.7592 Lindsay Kane 256.675.6792 Hugh Neighbors 256.750.5071 Howard Haynie 334.312.0693 Damon Story 205.789.9526 Judy Voss 256.794.0779 Mimi Rush 334.399.7874 Amy Duncan 256.212.2222 John Shelton 404.858.9198 Sawyer Davis 205.965.7940 Randall Rogers 334.707.5804 Rhonda Jaye 256.749.8681 John McInnish 334.415.2149 Jeff Cochran 256.786.0099 Michelle Brooks-Slayman 256.749.1031 Denise Cochran 256.786.2484 Judith Jager 205.914.0830205.789.0698 Haley Fuller 256.750.2411 WILLOW POINT 256.212.1498 OURTOWN 256.212.1498WE’RE THE MARKET LEADER LAKE MARTIN REALTY/ RUSSELL LANDS OTHER COMPETITORS (49 OURcompanies)CLOSEST COMPETITOR 45.7% Lake Martin Waterfront Market Share Member*LMAAR/MLSFirms Sales Volume Data August 2021-July 2022
STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY
PHOTOS BY GARRETT CARDOSO & COURTESY OF THE STEWS, THE BANK WALKERS & ROBERT GUNN Hotel Fiction
Labor Day Preview
On Saturday, Sept. 3, concertgoers will return to the Town Green at 6:30 p.m. for one of Lake Martin’s fan favorites, The Bank Walkers. The Bank Walkers, made up of local musicians with 9-to-5 day jobs, have made an impact on the Lake Martin area with their year-round gigs and have become a source for a good time and great music that you won’t want to miss. To close out the fun-filled Labor Day celebra tion, Hotel Fiction, a duo based out of Athens, Georgia, will take to the stage and introduce the audience to their unique sound based around their indie, pop and rock playlist. You don’t want to miss the sound of Jade and Jess as they share some of their songs from their debut album, Soft
Starting the event off strong on Friday, Sept. 2, at 6:30 p.m. will be Supper Club. Supper Club is a relatively new band from Auburn that is beginning to fill up their schedule with gigs. Following their performance at Russell Crossroads, the band will hit the road and play another show in Charlotte, North Carolina, in October.Following Supper Club’s set list, The Stews, another band based out of Auburn, will take the stage at 8 p.m. to bring you some of their rock genre-based songs. This band has been pretty busy over the summer with shows all over, including, most recently, shows in Macon and Atlanta, Georgia, as well as Birmingham, Alabama. You don’t want to miss this band clos ing out the first night of the event.
The Stews
This year's Labor Day music event will move from The Amp to Russell Crossroads
The annual Labor Day Music Fest is switch ing venues this year and looks to be a promising way, as usual, to close out the remaining days of the summer. Instead of having the concert at the Lake Martin Amphitheater, it’ll be on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads and will feature four bands instead of two over the span of two nights. Admission will be free. The two-day event will feature Supper Club, The Stews, The Bank Walkers and Hotel Fiction.
T
Focus, and rock the Town Green. Keep an eye out on the group as they are continuing to make new music, some of which they might share on the stage at Russell Crossroads. The Town Green at Russell Crossroads has been a place for people to come together and enjoy a night filled of music for more than a decade now, and the upcoming Labor Day cel ebration continues the tradition. According to Robert Gunn, director of events and marketing operations for Russell Lands, the move has allowed for the event to expand and offer an even bigger celebration with more music. Though event coordinators are unsure if the annual event will permanently be at Russell Crossroads, they are eager to see how the public enjoys the change of scenery and the increased number of performers. Along with the Town Green where the celebra tion will be held, Russell Crossroads is home to Catherine’s Market, a great location for an easy dinner and a great bottle of wine. Catherine’s Market will be open during the Labor Day Music Fest, so if you happen to get hungry while you’re enjoying a night of music and fun, head on over across the street and see what yummy treats you can“We’llfind. also have a food truck set up for the event,” Gunn said. If you want to take the meal into your own hands, pack a picnic for you and your family and friends to enjoy. It’s welcome at the Town Green. Dogs are also welcome to attend the event as long as they’re on a leash. The free event is the perfect way to close out the last few lingering days of summer, so head out to Russell Crossroads to enjoy the celebra tion for a weekend to remember. Bank Walkers Supper Club
The
Fuller believes the renovations made possible by Campground improvements could include larger, level pads, more space per site and more sites with full hookups
It was just a few months ago when Alabamians voted to approve the Alabama State Parks amend ment, and since then, Lake Martin’s beloved Wind Creek State Park has already begun planning improvement projects. The changes will not only help the state park itself, but also are expected to greatly impact the surrounding communities for the better and bring in more tourists to enjoy the beauty that is Lake Martin. Sandra Fuller, director of Tallapoosa County Tourism, believes the positive impact this amend ment will ensue will be unmatched to what the coun ty has seen before.
24 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
“I think, for the visitor, it’ll be a huge effect because I know that there are plans in the works to grow the lodging piece for Wind Creek State Park and also to update the RV park to offer more ame nities, so I know that that’s just a huge attraction,” Fuller said. “They do an incredible job of attraction, which has been going on for two or three years. People just realize that Lake Martin is here, and we have one of the largest campgrounds and RV parks in the state of Alabama, so they’ve been doing an incredible job with that. It’s gotten bigger. It’s no longer just seasonal.”
I
Some sections of the park may be temporarily closed during the work
STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & BETSY ILER
LAKE 25SEPTEMBER 2022 the passing of the amendment will only add to the park’s attraction and benefit the area tremendously. She also noted what the park’s added ameni ties would do to the lodging taxes for the area, saying they will increase in response to the additional places to stay within the park. “The lodging tax is based on the cost per unit, so if they’re building infrastructure that’s unlike RV parking, such as cabins, the cost nightly is going to be a little more increased than what you would see at an RV site, and the lodging taxes will be larger. There will certainly be an increase in the lodging taxes, which again is going to go back into helping our economy,” Fuller explained.
ImprovementsontheWay
Lein believes each of these projects will come to fruition over the next three years.
“Wind Creek is a very large campground, and the vast majority of our patronage there is campers, and so I think that they will very much see and appreci ate the improvement of as many of those campsites as we can handle in this effort, and I think that it’ll be very popular,” Lein said.
Fuller isn’t the only one to see the positivity illu minating in the community because of the amend ment.
The park staff is unsure if a shutdown of the park will need to occur while renovations are going on. Lein mentioned there could be sections of the park that will need to close due to renovations, but he believes the entirety of the park won’t be shut down at once.“Some of that may happen in the off season, and minimize that impact to the guests, but we have to complete the design work and get through the bid ding cycle before we fully understand how that will work,” he explained.
Activities like the Screamin' Eagle aerial tour add value to campers' experiences at the park
Wind Creek State Park has been an attraction for residents and visitors alike over the years and with improvements on the horizon, the state and the local community are vested in its future as the perfect get away.
Greg Lein, director of the Alabama State Parks Division, also sees what it could do for the com munity. He and the rest of the park staff couldn’t be more grateful for the support the park has received from the community since the amendment was on the“Firstballot.of all, we very much appreciate the public’s approval of the bond amendment, and we recognize that our customers and Alabamians appreciate and love their state parks and want to see them pros per and be the best parks that they can be. It really means making a greater capital investment in each of those parks,” Lein said.
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Improvements will be focused on enhancing the stay of overnight guests that take part in park activities, like a bicycle parade on July 4th Day use areas, like the beach, probably will remain unchanged
She also believes the impact will be positive on the community because of the space the surrounding area could soon provide for fishing tournaments and other special events. With an increase in places to stay, Fuller believes visitors and tourists won’t have to drive out of town and find lodging farther away. They’ll be able to easily find places within the area, further improving the local economy.
The intent at Wind Creek State Park, Lein said, is to renovate a section of the campground and to add new cottages, essentially adding more space for more visitors to stay when visiting the park. Expanding the overnight accommodations is one of the top priori ties of the park, which the division would be unable to do without the support from residents. Another project the park is hoping to work towards is to upgrade the water system and the sewer system.
“I’ve grown up here my whole life, and I’ve seen my community through various tragedies, through the good moments, celebrations that we’ve had really come together, and supporting each other. That’s something that is special to me because if it weren’t for my community, essentially, I wouldn’t be the person that I am. To know that I have support and we all support each other, that’s probably my favorite thing,” Cotton said. Another one of her favorite things about the county is the beauty in the scenery it provides.
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“The job got posted. I went through interviews, and me and Ms. Sandra just hit it off. I’ve loved working here ever since. It was kind of unconven tional, but a God thing for certain,” Cotton said.
Tallapoosa County has always drawn visitors from all over with its natural beauty, friendly faces and endless activities, but having the Tallapoosa County Tourism group has definitely widened the possibilities for the Lake Martin area. One of the newest faces of Tallapoosa County Tourism is none other than Reeltown native Katelyn Cotton. Cotton, who graduated from the University of North Alabama in December of last year, has been part of the community her entire life and decided after obtaining her public relations degree she would return home and take up a position at Dadeville High School.
TTaking tourism to a new level
“My passion is writing, and through teaching English, I thought maybe this is something that I want to do. Maybe this is a way that I can use what I’m good at and what I love to do, but I very quickly figured out that it was not for me,” Cotton explained.Following her time with DHS, she connected with the director at Tallapoosa County Tourism, Sandra Fuller, and the rest is history. Cotton and Fuller couldn’t make a better team.
Cotton’s position has given her the chance to be creative about representing and promoting her community. She hopes through her writing she can excite others to live here and find the beauty that surrounds the communities. Along with the natural appeal Lake Martin brings, Cotton mentioned the long way Dadeville and the other communities have come with updating and upkeeping their downtown areas, which she believes is another high point with in the Whencommunities.Cottonisn’t spending her time figuring out new ways to promote the area, she loves to catch up on her reading and writing, as well as spend time outdoors and hang out with her family and friends.
STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE
Cotton’s favorite book, though a tough decision, is Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Ann Burns, and the rea son behind it being her favorite has a lot to do with her own community. “It’s a story about a Southern town, and it’s set in about the ‘30s or ‘40s. It’s kind of a little bit of a gossipy book, but what I appreciate and what I love about that book so much is that it’s a true reflection of the South. I look at it like it kind of embodies the way of life and the way that Southern, small towns do things, and that is absolutely beautiful to me. It kind of allows me to think about things and how to approach the community and play on the charm that we have. It is unbelievable charm,” Cotton explained.Cottonloves Tallapoosa County and loves its warm atmosphere and friendly faces, and she plans on representing and promoting it in the best way possible. If you ever see Cotton out in the commu nity, don’t be afraid to say hello, she’ll be happy to talk to you and share her thoughts on what makes the community so special to so many.
Cotton is thankful for the opportunity to be such a staple in the community she holds near and dear to her heart. She loves representing the community as a key member for Tallapoosa County Tourism and wishes to show tourists just how special the county truly is. She began working for the group the last week in May and has a list of duties that she tackles well. Cotton runs the organization’s social media accounts, communicates with event sponsors, man ages the website and writes press releases, among other things. One of her favorite things to do is keep the blog up and running, which is a great way to hone her writing skills. She loves talking about the appeal of the county through writing for the blog.
Cotton believes sometimes it’s easy to take what we have for granted and tries to remember just how special the area is. “Going away, I was able to really appreciate what we have as far as natural beauty. Lake Martin obvi ously, the river, all of these great resources that we have. It’s just absolutely beautiful and it’s a great place to kind of relax, and I’ve been able to come find myself again here,” she said.
Katelyn Cotton
“I’ve grown up here my whole life, and I’ve seen my community through various tragedies, through the good moments, celebrations that we’ve had really come together, and supporting each other."~
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ForehandSteveSTORYBYBETSYILER&PHOTOBYKENNETHBOONE
32 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
L
LAKE 33 Lake Martin’s Steve Forehand last month was installed as president of the Alabama Wildlife Federation and will move forward an agenda for restoration, research and growth at the state’s oldest and largest citizen conservation organiza tion. An AWF board member for 15 years, Forehand pro fesses a lifetime of passion for the outdoors, stemming from a youth spent on this grandparents’ Fish Pond area farm. “I grew up hunting small game. It was just part of my family background – part of my DNA, if you will,” Forehand said. “I played in the pond, in the chicken houses, in the woods. It’s just part of my heritage. Working with AWF gives me an oppor tunity to honor that and do things that will last for generations, preserving the resources.”Amongthe projects now under Forehand’s ten ure are an ongoing oyster restoration effort in Mobile Bay; turkey research with Dr. Will Gulsby at Auburn University; and an enter prising move that could impact statewide tourism through duck habitat cre ation. These endeavors ultimately could help to make up for an impending loss in conservation funding as the Baby Boomer generation ages out, Forehand said. The largest segment of state hunting license holders, Alabama Baby Boomers are turning 65 by the hundreds per day and no longer are required to purchase hunting licenses, the primary funding source for the Alabama Department of Conservation.“TheDepartment of Conservation has started a great adult mentored hunting program. To piggyback on that program and continue to get funding, we also need to get younger hunters into the system. That’s a big part of fund ing for conservation, and we must replace it or that budget could be impacted,” Forehand explained. “Fortunately for all these projects, we have a very engaged and talented board of directors and an extremely talented executive direc tor in Tim Gothard.” Going back to early roots may be part of the answer.
It’s a very full plate for Forehand, who continues to be active in the community with Russell Medical Center, Lake Martin Resource Association, and more. He has enjoyed the support of the AWF board through a rotation that began with the position of third vice president, and he has served as AWF’s first vice president for two years now. The presi dency is, by definition, a one-year term, but some past presi dents have served two years, and with the preparatory steps to the term, he hopes to serve beyond his first year as presi dent, as there is much to do. And his passion for Alabama’s wildlife could serve the state well.
“We continue to participate in the longleaf pines restora tion, and you can see that in areas where Russell Lands has maintained the timberland to be conducive with the rees tablishment of longleaf here. New longleaf pines are estab lishing in areas where they weren’t planted. We are seeing longleaf reseeding and restoring itself in areas where habitat has been managed for it.”
Forehand also has been involved with conservation edu cation efforts at the local level through the AWF Wild Game Cook-off series. Proceeds from the annual cook-offs help to fund conservation educa tion, including the Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook. Growing educational oppor tunities for school children is a priority for AWF, Forehand explained, and the organization will look for ways to expand the ANC footprint.Buteducation efforts are not limited to children. Part of the mission of AWF biologists is to consult with landowners to man age properties for land health and wildlife. And Forehand is active on the AWF Governor’s Conservation Achievement Awards Committee, as well as other key AWF committees.Aproject with which he has been involved for at least 15 years – the longleaf pine restoration – is showing early signs of success on Russell Lands property, said Forehand, who is vice president and legal counsel for Russell Lands, as well as legal counsel for Lake Martin Resource Association.
“About 70 percent of what I know about hunting I learned as a kid hunting small game. I hunted squirrels, rab bits and quail. A kid can walk through the woods and learn about the outdoors,” he said. “Part of the thrill of hunting is also the thrill of being outdoors in the woods. And it helps kids if they can develop some small game hunting skills before they decide to move up to deer hunting. There’s a lot of action, and they don’t have to be real quiet.”
In addition to youth hunting and mentorship programs, Forehand wants to further develop AWF’s waterfowl habitat initiative. Southwest and west-central Alabama are on the perimeter of the Mississippi Flyway and habitat improve ments, such as management of abandoned catfish ponds and developing waterfowl rest areas, provide habitat that ducks could use during migration. With good habitat and increased waterfowl use, hunters should find that they don’t have to travel far and wide to enjoy a sporting weekend, he said.
Forehand was honored with the AWF presidency at a banquet last month
Putting passion for wildlife to work for future generations
34 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
LAKE 35SEPTEMBER 2022
There are at least six freshwater fish found only in the Tallapoosa River, including one discovered 15 years ago: the Tallapoosa Sculpin. This fish is small and camouflaged in dusky browns and blacks to blend into the rocky river bottom. It was not separated as a species until 2007 because it looks very much like other common and widespread spe cies found in the Tallapoosa River, like the Banded Sculpin.TheTallapoosa Sculpin is native in the Tallapoosa River system from its headwaters in Georgia to the fall line below Lake Martin at Thurlow Dam in Tallassee. This fish is found primarily in the creeks that flow into the Tallapoosa River, but several Tallapoosa Sculpins were captured in the shoals just upstream of Lake Martin. Tallapoosa Sculpins are usually found in less than 2 feet of water moving at medium to high speeds over clean gravel or rocky bottoms. These sculpins do not have swim bladders, which means that, unlike a lot of fish that spend time swimming in mid-water, they sink.Sculpins are bottom dwellers with flat bellies and large pectoral fins. They can position their pectoral fins like airplane wing flaps to use the force of the current to hold themselves against the bottom, instead of sweeping them downstream. They also have closely positioned pelvic fins that can help hold them on the riverTallapoosabottom. Sculpins grow to fewer than 3 inches long and maintain their dark brown and black colors year round. They have three to four dark “saddles” or bands that go from side-to-side across their backs. Like all sculpins, Tallapoosa Sculpins have very large heads and mouths relative to their bodies. The scientific name for this species is Cottus Tallapoosae. Sculpins are mostly nocturnal fish that take cover under rocks and other structures during the day and come out to hunt at night. As juveniles, they eat mostly insect larvae. As they grow larger, they begin to eat larger prey – anything that can fit into their large mouths – such as aquatic insects, crayfish and other small fish. Sculpins ambush their prey by holding still on the bottom and quickly striking as a meal swims, crawls or floats by, or they stealthily move across the bottom, hunting for their dinner. In turn, these This small bottom dweller is found only in the Tallapoosa River
Sculpin
TallapoosaBOONE
THE LAKE
TNATUREOF BY KENNETH
fish are preyed upon by larger fish and wading birds. Female Tallapoosa Sculpins begin producing eggs in early spring. When the water temperatures hit about 54 degrees in March and April, these sculpins spawn in shallow water nests.
Information from this article came from the scien tific paper “Two New Sculpins of the Genus Cottus (Teleostei Cottidae) from the Rivers of Eastern North America” by Neely, Williams and Mayden, the Animal Diversity Web at the University of Michigan and outdooralabama.com.
This sculpin uses its large pectoral fins to help it stay on the river bottom
The Tallapoosa Sculpin has a large head and mouth and dark saddles across its back
The Tallapoosa Sculpin was discovered by David A. Neely, James D. Williams and Richard L. Mayden. Some of the individual Tallapoosa Sculpins used to identify the species were found in creeks around Lake Martin, including Channahatchee Creek near RedWindHill;Creekjust below Lake Martin; Hillabee Creek near Hackneyville; Little Hillabee Creek near Goodwater; Manoy Creek near Jacksons Gap; Timbergut Creek near New Site; and Hamlet Mill Creek just north of Horseshoe Bend.
38 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
White Oak Landing is a collection of attractively priced, turn-key lakefront cottages. With nine cottage-style plans to choose from, the large, wooded, waterfront homesites are conveniently located on the north end of Lake Martin offering easy access to Highway 280, golf, dining, shopping, marina and medical care. MODEL HOMES now constructionunderby
The Gilpins' asymmetrical Adirondack style lake home is tucked cozily into the woods
STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
True Treasure
B BoBo Gilpin grew up coming to Lake Martin, and when he married Sherry, she was happy to become part of a family that loved the peaceful ness of the lake and the fun it has to offer. In 1991, the Gilpins bought a cabin on a perfect lot, but as their two girls grew up, the family longed for a little more space and a lot more pri vacy than 900 square feet allowed. So in 2000, they tore down the cabin and built a new home that could accommodate their own family plus extended fam ily and friends. “We considered moving to a different area of the lake, but we loved our lot. It’s large and level, and the wooded area across from us will remain wooded for many years, so we just couldn’t leave. We have a great street, and we all look out for each other. Another tremendous advan tage is that the water is so calm and peaceful where we are. We hardly have any boats or large waves in our slough,” Sherry Gilpin said. During their brief search for another house, the Gilpins met their future builder, Lock Hunter, who is known for a planfoundAdirondacknonsymmetrical,style.Theyabasicfloorthattheylovedin Southern Living, and between the three of them, they tweaked the plans until they had exactly what they wanted. “There were lots of design ideas on napkins. Lock is very talented, very hands on. BoBo and Lock spent many hours planning the house. We also had the help of Bev Hunter King and Joan MacDowell on what was the first phase of building and decorating,” GilpinReminiscentsaid. of old cabins on the lake, a gravel drive way leads guests onto the beautiful, wooded lot where the home sits. Tremendous pieces of flagstone create the walkway and front porch of the home. Cedar shake siding on the house is stained Shag Bark with Navajo White trim – both Sherwin Williams colors. Throughout The outdoor cooking porch is a favorite spot year round The stream added beauty and peaceful sounds near the porch
42 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
The second floor is open to the living areas below
A quilt of presidential silhouettes graces the rail of a bridge that leads to a game area
Gilpin built the pizza oven that is used for all types of meals A warm, inviting kitchen opens onto the screened porch
Guests can relax on the boat house porch
LAKE 47SEPTEMBER 2022 the years since the home was built, the couple added landscaping that enhances the already wooded, shady lot – a Japanese maple, boulders and ferns, among others. Also, after the first phase of building, they finished the upstairs interior of their boathouse with three bedrooms and added flag stone paths and patios. Hunter built a timber framed cooking porch with a stream and surrounding landscaping, which were installed by Eric Brown at HilltopNaturalLandscaping.pinefloors, cedar tongueand-groove walls and beadboard ceil ings define the interior, and fabulous natural light is allowed in through win dows perfectly placed in every location possible. The focal point in the main room is a tremendous stone fireplace built by Ben Newman with stones handpicked from a friend’s farm in Coosa County. Comfortable, sectional seating and chairs in the main living area invite family and friends to gather near the fire or to watch the big game. Oars are hung above the sofa on a bridge that runs overhead from the top of the staircase to a table that stands ready for working puzzles or working from home. A dining table with a distressed top and six ladderback chairs divides the living area from the kitchen. An antique table serves as the island in the kitchen, providing additional counter or serving space. Deep green cabinets, painted Sherwin Williams’ Leather Leaf, add to the warmth of the kitchen. Six windows offer lake views beyond the corner apron-front sink. A tall hutch with glass doors on the top half and a cabinet below offers additional storage for dinnerware and serving pieces. Near the table, green cabinets are above a natural wood base cabinet, offering flexibility in usage. Lake Martin designer Phil Spraggins has worked with the Gilpins over the last few years to update win dow treatments and décor. “I just love the Gilpins’ home. It is so unique, and it is perfect for entertaining. One of the first things I suggested was to use a creamy color to paint the ceiling in the kitchen, the foyer and under the bridge walkway. The change really added a nice con trast and lightened the main rooms
The boat house sleeps eight upstairs Lots of natural light helps to create tranquility in the master bedroom
The cedar shake home is perfectly positioned on the wooded lake lot
Art filled with bugs and botanicals are one focus in the boatlivinghousearea
48 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 since all the walls and ceilings were one color before,” Spraggins said. The screened porch is located outside the kitch en on the lake side of the house. A red dining table and a casual sitting area add space to dine and enjoy the view. The Gilpins called in Taylor Dawson to help them add space to their pantry, just off the kitch en, an addition that made hosting large family gath erings easier, Gilpin said. With the Gilpins’ ideas and Dawson’s expertise, two areas – a small pantry with shelves and a laundry closet with a stacked washer and dryer – were transformed by a bump-out addition into an L-shaped working pantry with an ice maker, a sink, a wine refrigerator, shelves on one wall and cabinets with countertops. The renovation doubled the cabinet and countertop space in the kitchen. A full-sized washer and dryer now have plenty of space. A unique feature of the addition was the inclusion of a section of bottom cabinets that could be rolled out of the pantry, allowing more food service as needed in the main room or tucked right back into its space alongside the installed cabinets, an idea of the homeowners.Birmingham designer, Tish Fuller, helped with the pantry renovation. Entry into the pantry is through either the old laundry closet double doors or through a screen door with copper mesh in theJustkitchen.down the hall from the kitchen is a small room, perfectly fitted with bunks and a twin trundle bed. A half-bath across the hall is situated conveniently by a side door that provides easy access from the cooking porch. The master bedroom is just off the living area. Again, lots of windows provide natural light, and a window seat under one set of windows provides a soft focal point from the door. The walls have beadboard wainscoting and lake inspired artwork. The master bath has white
SEPTEMBER 2022 Four bunks added to a boathouse hallway made great use of the space Adirondack chairs and flowers on the front porch make a welcoming entrance The family likes to fireplacetremendousaroundgatherthe The master bathroom, with a deep soaker tub, is flooded with natural light from high windows
Outside living space is a priority for the Gilpins, and the addition of the cooking porch provides a beautiful space to entertain, which has been the most used addi tion, Gilpin said. BoBo built the interior of a brick pizza oven, a perfect addition for entertaining family and friends. A Big Green Egg is another necessary piece of equipment on the cooking porch. On the back of the cooking porch, he built an outdoor shower that everyone loves.“BoBo enjoys cooking, his specialty is barbecue, and he also enjoys cook ing Thanksgiving turkeys in the wood-fired oven. During holidays and foot ball Saturdays, the cook ing porch is really where we live, ” she said.
A small room in the main house made a perfect bunk room
50 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 ship-lap and a beadboard ceiling. A small antique claw foot tub and separate shower, plus two vanities, complete the space. The windows are high, allowing them to provide light without the need for window treatments. Spraggins and Fuller sourced drapes, blinds and Roman shades in the home. Two bedrooms and baths are upstairs. One has a queen-sized iron bed and a crib, while the other has two twin-sized beds and a window seat that serves as additional sleeping space. Both rooms offer lake views. While all of the other ceilings are bead board, the upstairs bedrooms have a tin ceiling look. The roadside boat house provides storage and a workshop space downstairs. Upstairs, two bedrooms mirror each other with bunk beds, twin on top and full on the bottom, plus built-in cubbies for storage. In a separate bunk hall, there are two twin bunk beds. The main room provides a great living area with big screen television and a coffee bar ready for guests. Fuller selected the décor for these areas.
The Gilpins plan to split their time between Pikes Road and Lake Martin. Surrounded by woods, on the shore of the lake they love, family and friends are always welcomed.
Tucked away on the outskirts of Auburn University at the world-class Grand National Golf Course, the award winning National Village offers everything you’ll ever need for the way you want to live. The thoughtfully crafted master planned community features georgeous homes designed by national award winner Larry Garnett and built by Ab and Don Conner at Conner Bros. Construction Co., Inc., a local company with more than 100 years of experience. With the Marriott at Grand National on site, residents enjoy championship golf, miles of picturesque nature trails and lakes for fishing, spa and pool. National Village is truly an unbelievable place to live – inside or out. Plus, thanks to the high speed fiber optic network of Opelika (Alabama’s first Gig City), our homeowners enjoy some of the Nation’s fastest internet for any work- or learn-from-home requirements.
DISCOVER A LUXURIOUS GOLF LIFESTYLE LIVING ALONG GRAND NATIONAL GOLF COURSE New Homes With Luxurious Amenities: Resort, Golf, Tennis, Fishing, Spa, and Wooded Trails
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LAKE 51SEPTEMBER 2022TO LEARN MORE, CALL US AT 334.749.8165 OR VISIT WWW.NATIONALVILLAGE.COM.
52 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
CRATA Trails Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trails Association boasts 26 miles along four footpath-only trail locations near the east and south shorelines of Lake Martin. The old est of these trail systems can be accessed at Alabama Power’s Overlook Park. From state Route 50 at Martin Dam, turn north onto Overlook Drive. The park and trailhead are about a mile up the road. Alabama Power has provided picnic tables and an observation platform at the trailhead to three paths totaling 7.2 looped miles that can be hiked in a variety of distance combinations between 1 mile and the full 7.2. The Overlook trails were constructed in 2004 and feature stands of longleaf pine, native azaleas and charming mountain laurel teacup blossoms in season. Up the road from Overlook Park, the James M. Scott Deadening Trail features unique rock formations, including the Needle’s Eye and Jasmine Bluff, and a spectacular view of Lake Martin’s most popular land mark, Chimney Rock on Acapulco Rock Island. The full loop measures 4.2 miles, but a crossover route hikes only 3.1, and an emergency trail at the crossover leads back to the parking lot. A challenge even for experi enced hikers, the Deadening Trail is not recommended for children under the age of 12. Wear sturdy shoes with good tread and pack plenty of water, as well as a snack, Nature's Way trails, built and maintained by Alabama Power, offer an idyllic experience at Lake Martin
A
As the heat wave abates in the weeks ahead, a walk in the woods holds great appeal, and Lake Martin offers more than 150 miles of options. From the footpath-only CRATA trails to Wind Creek State Park and Russell Forest, each of the area’s hiking, biking or horse trails shares its own spectacular beauty, wildlife and geo graphical features. It’s not unheard of to run up on a roosting bald eagle along the cliffside of the Deadening Trail; to happen across a rare bottomland wildflower on the return hike from Smith Mountain Fire Tower; or to hear a turkey call when strolling the Big Way through Russell Forest. And now, Lake Martin Tourism rewards hikers who complete mileage on 10 or more local trails. Earn a Lake Martin Hiking Challenge patch upon logging miles and sending your trail record to the tourism office. Visit explorelakemartin.com for the hiking challenge details; then, strap on your boots, grab a staff and hit one of these delightful trails.
LAKE 53SEPTEMBER 2022 for this unique hiking experience. The trailhead is about 3 miles from the turn onto Overlook Drive from Martin Dam. Turn into the Harbor subdivision. The trailhead is 600 feet on the left at 83 Harbor View Blvd., Dadeville.
Four trails at Smith Mountain are complemented with an outdoor education center at the foot of a fire tower that offers Lake Martin’s most spectacular panoramic views. In Dadeville, turn onto West Lafayette Street and follow the brown landmark signs to Smith Mountain just off Youngs Ferry Road to reach the parking lot. Take the .4-mile Walker Bynum Smith Mountain Tower Trail to visit the kiosk displays at the education center and gain a greater appreciation for the flora and fauna you might see as you hike. The trail is steep and will seem longer than its measured distance. Change up the hike on your return to the parking lot by catching the Return Trail on the west side of the tower. The Lakeshore Trail can be accessed from the Walker Bynum trail near the top of the mountain. The trail makes a sharp descent before winding along the unde veloped shoreline of the lake. The 2.4-mile loop returns to the parking lot.
South of Lake Martin, the John B. Scott Forever Wild and Cherokee Bluffs Dam Railroad trails wind through a historic wildlife management area owned by Alabama Forever Wild. The 4.7-mile John B. Scott Trail is named for an influential voice for conservation. The late John B. Scott was instrumental in the establishment of the Forever Wild Land Trust, which sets aside ecologically significant properties for preservation. The trail weaves through old growth forest and along creeks as it invites
Time to hit the trails
The Little Smith Mountain Loop is a challenging trail for hikers who are in better-than-average physical con dition. It is not a trail for small children or youngsters who like to venture away from the hiking party. The 2.6-mile trail is known for its beautiful views and rock formations, as well as the variety of flora.
STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & AUDRA SPEARS
Accessible only during the winter drawdown, the trailhead to the David M. Forker Island Hop/Boat Dock Trail is 1.4 miles from the parking lot via the Lakeshore Trail. During summer’s full pool level on the lake, the path connecting the four islands is submerged. The trails at Smith Mountain are color coded and blazed on tree trunks at adult-eye-level to help hikers navigate. Download maps at crata.org.
The Island Hop trail below Smith Mountain offers a winter-only hiking option
Alabama Power maintains the Nature’s Way dayuse area at Lake Martin, featuring a meander ing hiking trail on more than 70 acres. Located on the lake’s south side, the area features three trail options, one of which hugs the Lake Martin shoreline. Benches, bridges, picnic areas and a gazebo provide points of interest and interlude along the way. Access the trail from Overlook Drive via McCarthy and Old Tree roads in the Kennebec area. viewtolake-martin/#_naturesapcpreserves.com/Visitdownloadamapandavirtualtour.
Unique rock formations abound on the Deadening Trail off Overlook Road
A moderate-to-difficult hike, the Alabama Reunion Trail at Wind Creek State Park measures some 3.8 miles through hardwood bottoms and pine forest. Though a loop trail, the path is bisected by state Route 128. The North Side Trail is just under 2 miles, and the South Side Trail mea sures 1.8 miles. The trail can be accessed near the park entrance and is open to hikers and mountain bikers.The Campfire Trail is 1.8 miles of moderate hiking with several steep climbs and connector trails. Hike each season to watch the transitions of color, the growth and abundance of ferns and other changes in the woods. Visit during an orienteering weekend to gain navigation skills through the forest. Visit ingridesincludinghorse-trailsing-and-biking-trailsalapark.com/parks/wind-creek-state-park/hikformapsandmoreinformation.Visitalapark.com/parks/wind-creek-state-park/forinformationon20milesoftrails,theJeffReedHorseTrailandguidedtrailforuptofourriders.Horsecampinganddayridareasalsoareavailableatthepark.
Wind Creek State Park
Nature’s Way Preserve
SEPTEMBER 2022 hikers to experience the rich wildlife abundance and diversity of Alabama. It is a moderate hike, though the trail can be muddy at times.
The Cherokee Bluffs Dam Railroad Trail follows the historic railroad bed that was used in the construc tion of Martin Dam in the early 1920s. Follow either the Highline or Lowline trail bed to Saddle Rock Mountain, the highest point in Elmore County. The Lowline trail is an out-and-back hike totaling 5.4 miles that advances as far as Channahatchee Creek. Plans are being made to construct a bridge over the creek and continue the point-to-point trail. Visit crata.org for maps and more informa tion about any of the non-profit organization’s projects. Russell Forest Russell Lands has set aside some 25,000 acres of woods and streams for the preservation of nature for future generations at Lake Martin. The diverse habitat provides an excellent venue for hiking, moun tain biking and horseback riding and serves as a stag ing area for Russell Lands’ naturalist programs and guided hikes. The woods are maintained as a working forest to help protect Lake Martin and ensure that it will retain its standing as one of the country’s cleanest lakes.Download the free Russell Lands app, which pro vides GPS locating on the trail map. You can share your location and see friends’ locations or record and display your hikes through Russell Forest, email imag es or post them on social media. The app also includes links to Russell Lands events and restaurants. Hikers are invited to travel the trails for free upon completing and submitting a Russell Forest Trail Association application. Cyclers pay a $20 annual membership and must display a bike decal on the bicy cle’s seat post. Golf cart access is limited to selected trails after payment of a $100 membership fee, and horse riders pay $100 for an individual membership or $175 for a family membership. Horse riders also are eligible for a $25 day pass. See the registration form at russelllands.com/outdoors/russellforest/ and review policies.Russell Forest also hosts the annual Russell Forest Run in late February to raise funds for the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. Monies donated in past years have furnished students with updated technological devices, outfitted school buses with air conditioning and provided for additional health and education needs in local schools. For more information about the Russell Forest Run event, visit the website at russellforestrun.com.
56 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
Over the last century, Wicker Point has gone from farmland to forest to golf course
100 Years of Change
I t started roughly 100 years ago. The land that is becoming The Heritage and Wicker Point Golf Club was farmland along the Tallapoosa River in a very rural and remote area of Alabama. The people that lived in this area lived on and worked the land – without electricity. Fortunately, a relatively new company, Alabama Power Company, had a plan to build a hydroelectric dam on the Tallapoosa River and connect this part of rural Alabama to what we now call the grid. Fours years later (my guess is it would take 25 years to get a permit today), the dam was built, and thousands of acres of farmland were flooded, creating Lake Martin, which was named for the power company’s president. Prior to filling the lake, the power company and Benjamin Russell purchased much of the farmland under and bordering what would become the lake. Much of the farmland would be underwater, and a willing owner would more easily grant that per mission.From the filling of the lake in 1926 up to 2018, very little happened on the 1,500 lakefront acres that would become The Heritage. Farming continued on the property, and the people who worked the land lived in the Russell Farm community on the property. Over time, the farming operation ended, and the land turned into managed forest. In addition to the farming operation, a special piece of property, Wicker Point peninsula, was used to pro vide waterfront rental cabins. Those humble green cabins were some of the first of what long-time lake lovers call Russell Cabins. The cabins, some dating back to the 1950s, provided a wonderful introduction to Lake Martin for thousands of people, including yours truly. Lake Martin has evolved, especially over the last 30 years. The Wicker Point area remained remarkably unchanged until 2018. Russell Lands, Inc., which has grown under the watchful care of Benjamin Russell’s grandson, is the owner of the property. Russell Lands has developed many waterfront properties on the lake. Willow Point, The Willows, Windermere, Trillium, River Oaks and The Ridge are very attractive and wellknown lake communities developed by Russell. In 2018, it was apparent that the company was nearly complete with its development and sales period for The Willows and The Ridge. With the ever-grow ing popularity of the lake, the company began to con sider what came next. After considering the choices on nearly 25,000 acres of land owned by the company, this quiet location was chosen. The key consideration for selecting this property was due to the decision by Russell’s management team that more amenities, as well as waterfront home sites, were needed. The key amenity was a new golf course. Russell Lands had already built and enhanced the Willow Point golf course, which was transformative to the company and to the lake. Currently, there is a waiting list for potential membership, proving that more capacity for golf is Withneeded.property as special as the Wicker Point area, the company decided to approach the world’s leading golf course designers, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. After look ing at all of Russell’s property holdings, they agreed that the Wicker LAKE PROPERTY BY STEVE ARNBERG
As the heat of summer fades and cooler temperatures come calling, we look forward to that feeling of fall. It’s the perfect time to be outdoors with family and friends, and a great time to be Makealive.sure your heart is ready for the season with an appointment at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Russell KevinMedical.Sublett, MD, is board-certified in cardiovascular care and offers the latest in prevention, testing, and treatment for keeping your heart healthy. Our clinic is backed by the knowledge and expertise of UAB Medicine, including: ultrasound testing medicine imaging in fully accredited labs of cardiac rhythm disorders cardiology care
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HEART & VASCULAR CLINIC AT RUSSELL MEDICAL 3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 • Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 234-2644 • uabmedicine.org/HeartRussell area provided the very best location for a world-class golf course.There are a huge number of people who use the term “world-class,” and most of the time, it is not really justified; however, in this case, I believe the term fits. The Wicker Point Golf Course is shaping up to be a world-class golf course. The property that 100 years ago was farmland and four years ago was a forest, is trans forming before our eyes into a world-class golf course. Pine forest has become a series of lush fairways. Given the current schedule, the private course will be open for play in September of In2023.July, Russell offered the first collection of waterfront property in The Heritage, the master-planned community that is home to Wicker Point Golf Club. To date, 45 of the avail able 51 properties have gone underThecontract.transformation will con tinue in The Heritage over the next several years. More water front property will be available. The golf course and clubhouse will be ready for use next September as noted above. The Benjamin Lake Club, a water front recreation center with a pool, clubhouse, fitness facility, beach, community docks, event lawns, tennis courts and pickle ball courts will open by May of 2025. Water-access homes will be developed as well. We think that The Heritage will be transformative to Lake Martin. For those of us who have been on the lake for years, we know Lake Martin is a world-class lake. Now we have a world-class attraction to draw people’s attention from around the world.
Our expanded clinical team is ready to serve you. Schedule a visit today by calling 256-234-2644.
Steve Arnberg is Vice President Real Estate Sales for Russell Lands.
LAKE 57SEPTEMBER 2022
FEELING THE CALL OF FALL? MAKE SURE YOUR HEART IS HEALTHY
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58 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 (334) 759-7080 • sparklealabama.com RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Serving Auburn, Opelika & Lake Martin Areas! WINDOW CLEANING PRESSURE WASHING GUTTER CLEANING SOFT WASHING
LAKE 59SEPTEMBER 2022 This has been an active year for the Lake Martin Homeowners and Boat Owners, and we are looking forward to the rest of this year andThe2023.Dedeville Fall Festival is coming up, and HOBOs will have a booth set up and will be speak ing with members of our community about the vari ous functions we perform to carry out our mission to preserve and protect our Treasured Lake Martin. We encourage membership. Annual membership is only $15 for individuals and $25 for a family. We look forward to seeing you there. We plan to participate in the Christmas events in Dadeville this year, becoming more visible to the lake community to drive membership and participation in our association. Please consider joining and becoming active in ourThisassociation.pastyear, we continued our association with Lake Watch and encouraged community participation in their mission to protect the clean waters of Lake Martin. Lake Watch can always use volunteer water monitors to perform the extremely important function of monitoring the water in our lake. Lake Watch will train you and provide the test kits. We will continue to contribute and encour age community participation with Lake Watch. This coming spring, HOBOs will offer free boat inspections at the Alabama Power boat ramps with the assistance of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. This past spring, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary passed 24 boats and handed out certificates. HOBOs was happy to assist with this community service. Visit lakemartinhobos.com for dates and times. This past summer, HOBOs held a free boating safety course with the assistance of the Alabama Marine Patrol. We had 29 people take the free course and pass the test and receive their certifica tions. We thank the Alabama Marine Patrol for conducting the class and helping the community to become safer boaters. HOBOs plans to hold another free boating safety course this coming spring. Check the website for details. HOBOs have been active in several construc tion projects around the lake as these projects affect the lake and community. We participated in the Alexander City meeting concerning the new graphite plant being constructed in Kellyton. HOBOs wanted to ensure this manufacturing plant would have no ill effects on the quality of water in Lake Martin. The State and City have done an excellent job of work ing with the manufacturer to ensure that. Along with Lake Watch, LMRA and several other lake associations, HOBOs continues to monitor these construction sites and developments to protect ourWithlake.new developments and industrial sites com ing to our lake, HOBOs will continue to work with our community to manage any issues that are con cerning our membership. Unrestricted development of our lake is a concern of our members. HOBOs will continue to work with ADEM, Alabama Power, Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce and other influential organizations to ensure these developments keep Lake Martin clean and protected. We also will participate in the annual Renew Our Rivers cleanup around the lake on Nov. 4 and 5. At our last annual breakfast meet ing in June, we elected four new board members. We had two excellent guest speakers and a big crowd. We are plan ning our next breakfast meeting for next June. Board meetings are held every two months on the second Monday of that month. Our next board meet ing is Monday, Sept. 12, 2022, at 4 p.m. We hold our meetings in Dadeville at Zazu’s Verandah. HOBOs plans to continue our membership drive. We will continue to request local businesses to allow us to place our membership brochures in their place of business. We want to make our association visible to the community and encourage active participation in our association. In addition, HOBOs will be working with our leg islators to pass some legislation regarding proximity and wake laws for Lake Martin. Other states around Alabama have passed these types of laws. Input from our members is appreciated.
The years 2022 and 2023 look to be active times for the Lake Martin HOBOs. Please consider becoming a member.
Harry DeNegre is president of Lake Martin Homeowners and Boat Owners Association. Learn more at lakemartinhobos.com.
HOBO BY HARRY DENEGRE
Wrap up one season and prepare for the next
60 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 W E T U M P K A Wildlife Arts Festival Sporting Dog Demonstrations featuring Wildrose Kennels Cooking Demonstrations with Premier Chef Chris Hastings Alabama Wildlife Federation - Live Animal Presentations Carving Demonstration with Wildlife Artist John David ArtisansLiveFooteMusicand Crafters Children’s Activities Food Vendors Plein Air Artists A Series of Educational Classes, Art Exhibits, Vendors and Expert Demonstrations, such as: NOVEMBER 5TH 10AM - 4PM Historic Downtown Wetumpka For More Information Visit The Kelly.Org or Call 334-478-3366 Kelly_ALWildlifeMagazineAdV2_7x5.indd 1 8/16/22 10:07 AM Mon - Thur 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Fri 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. 256-234-6401 6 Franklin Street • Alexander lamberthandlamberth.comCity
LAKE 61SEPTEMBER 2022 FABULOUS FINDS FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS 56 Magnolia Crest, Dadeville • $435,000 Beds: 3 • Baths: 3.5 • Water View Lake Martin Realty Michelle Brooks-Slayman LakeMartinRealty.com256.749.1031 1477 Wind Creek Farm Road, Alex City • $515,000 Beds: 3 • Baths: 2 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Mimi Rush LakeMartinRealty.com334.399.7874 1137 North Ridge, Alexander City • $5,950,000 Beds: 4 • Baths: 7 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Jan Hall LakeMartinRealty.com256.329.6313 Russell Cabins at The Willows, Verandas II • $995,000 Builder: Classic Homes • Beds: 4 Baths: 4.5 • Sq Ft: 2,396 Russell Lands Rhonda Watson, Anna Speaks, Thomas Lamberth 256.215.7011 • RussellLands.com 665 Dogwood Drive, Eclectic • $1,099,000 Beds: 3 • Baths: 3 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Adam Yager LakeMartinRealty.com205.914.0830 741 Lakeview Ridge Unit 804, Dadeville • $225,000 Beds: 2 • Baths: 2 • Top Floor Unit Lake Martin Realty Jeff Cochran LakeMartinRealty.com256.786.0099 110 Buena Vista Circle, Alexander City • $750,000 Beds: 5 • Baths: 3.5 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Judith Jager LakeMartinRealty.com205.914.0830 48 Outboard Circle, Jackson’s Gap • $1,200,000 Beds: 4 • Baths: 4 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Damon Story LakeMartinRealty.com205.789.9526 WATERACCESS 103 Bennett Lane, Jackson’s Gap • $799,000 Beds: 3 • Baths: 2.5 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Rhonda Jaye LakeMartinRealty.com256.749.8681 25 Camp Circle, Dadeville • $369,000 Beds: 3 • Baths: 2 • Water Access Lake Martin Realty Lindsay Kane LakeMartinRealty.com256.675.6792 188 East Ridge, Alexander City • $1,925,000 Beds: 5 • Baths: 4 • Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie LakeMartinRealty.com334.312.0928 1486 Althea Loop, Alexander City • $334,900 Beds: 3 • Baths: 2 • Parrish Hills Lake Martin Realty Haley Fuller LakeMartinRealty.com256.750.2411
Healthy Southern Food
62 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022
The REGARDS (Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke) study has looked at black and white participants in the Southeast region of the United States to determine the causes for excess stroke mortality in the Southeast.Sincethe inception of the study, there have been many smaller studies. These studies included 56 percent of people liv ing in the stroke belt. These states included North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas and Louisiana. The largest cause of death in the United States is loss of heart func tion, which causes sudden cardiac death. It occurs most frequently in adults of the age mid 30s to mid 40s. Most of the deaths are caused by heart arrhythmias. It has been discovered through research that a diet high in sugar, fat and processed foods is not limited to the South but also is typical in the western United States. It is important to find ways to embrace Southern traditions while incorporating solutions to healthier eating. Studies have shown that when people are told to use one style of eating, such as the Mediterranean eating pattern, it sends a message that we must aban don cultural traditions to be able to eat healthy. This could impact people in a negative way and imply that the rejection of their traditional foods is the only way to live healthy.
It is not a secret that, more often than not, the Southern diet gets a bad rap for causing cardio vascular disease and other chronic illnesses. There is definitely some truth to this, and organizations like The American Heart Association and the Dietetic Association agree that a diet containing lots of added fat, fried foods, organ, processed meat and sugar sweetened beverages is unhealthy. Scientific evidence indicates this type of diet leads to obesity and chronic disease. The most current research shows a link between CVD and the Southern diet with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. Making a few changes in the Southern diet without abandoning cultural traditions could reduce the health risks and improve outcomes for those who eat Southern food.Southern food reflects a blend of cul tures and culinary traditions that were influenced by the French, Portuguese, Spanish, Native Americans and the West African slaves. The South is divided into three regions: South Atlantic, East South Central and West South Central. Food is cultivated, prepared and consumed according to social, economic and political histories of each region. Southern food is a living record of people, places and cultures contributing to the South. Southern food is a way for people to connect with land heritage, loved ones and self. The connectivity to Southern foods could have as big of an impact on food choices as other biological, economic and physical determi nants.Southern states consistently rank the worst in the United States for health and wellness. The question has been asked and research has focused on what is causing residents of the South to have higher inci dences of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and strokes.
HEALTHY LIVING BY JULIE HUDSON
LAKE 63SEPTEMBER 2022
n Skip the saltshaker. Salt is an acquired taste. Learn to appreciate the natural flavor of food.
n Avoid frying foods; choose healthier ways to cook, like baking, sautéing and grilling.
n Choose heart healthy fats, such as extra virgin olive oil and avocados. Avoid or limit unhealthy fats in cooking, such as fatback, bacon and ham hocks.
The Mediterranean diet chooses particular foods that are healthy and states these should be eaten more often. Incorporation of these suggested foods could offer benefits while using existing food pref erences and practices.
n Avoid or limit added sugar. Check labels if you are unsure about a certain food.
Julie Hudson is a certified dietician at Lake Martin Wellness Center in Dadeville.
n Foods that once were discouraged, like peanuts and mayonnaise, could be added back using the Mediterranean style. Add back full fat dressings in small amounts; roast vegetables in the oven and make that the basis of all meals. Eat nuts in mod eration for snacks.
The Mediterranean diet is known to be the hall mark example. It won the best overall diet for 2022 for promoting a healthier heart, weight loss and a balanced eating plan while preventing strokes, type 2 diabetes and premature death. The Mediterranean diet focuses on eating lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, fish and extra virgin olive oil. Processed foods, added sugar and refined grains should be avoided or limited. The heart healthy Lenoir Project set an example of a culturally inclusive lifestyle used to reduce cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure in North Carolina residents. The med-South inter vention dietary pattern is another example of the inclusion of the Mediterranean diet and Southern diet. Participants in the study were given a modi fied cookbook that combines Southern style recipes using the principles of the Mediterranean diet to incorporate foods that are culturally acceptable to the Southern palate. The foods included greens, sweet potatoes, beans, nuts, oils, full fat salad dress ings and Studiesmayonnaise.haveproven that the Southern diet is linked to a higher incidence of coronary heart dis ease, sudden cardiac death and other chronic dis eases. Food in the South reflects culture and tradi tion from around the world. In place of demonizing and abandoning the Southern diet, recipes could be tailored to include traditional foods while following the Mediterranean-eating pattern. If you are looking for ways to improve health while respecting your culture and tradition, here are some ways to create a happy medium.
n Choose whole grains, beans and legumes.
n Eat plenty of fish.
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Pete McKenny, General Manager and Executive Chef at SpringHouse Restaurant, trained at four-star restaurants and Forbes four-star resorts in Ohio,Washington, Arizona and Vermont before returning to Russell Lands on Lake Martin, where he began his career as chef de cuisine at Willow Point Golf & Country Club 12 years ago.
CHEF'S TABLE BY PETE MCKENNY Ingredients 2-1/3 cups heavy cream 2/3 cup whole milk 3/4 cup grams sugar 9 egg yolks 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons vanilla extract 1 vanilla bean 1/4 pound fresh mint 1/4 cup Crème d’ Mint 2 cups chocolate chips Directions Bring the cream and milk to a simmer with the vanilla bean, vanilla extract, fresh mint and liquor. Make sure not to boil. Beat the egg yolks and sugar. Slowly add the milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture, making sure you don’t cook the egg. Chill and spin for 4 to 7 minutes. When extracting the ice cream, sprinkle the chips in and mix to incorporate.
KOWALIGACHEERS!
Add a taste of the Caribbean to your endof-summer celebrations with the Big Blue cocktail from Kowaliga Restaurant. Sweet Bacardi Rum and a splash of bitter-orange Blue Curacao come down to earth when combined with Cathead Vodka, courtesy of Mississippi’s first (legal) distillery. Pour on the lemonade as a summer treat and add some lemon-lime bubbles with Sprite, and you have the makings of that perfect watch-the-actionfrom-the-covered-porch toast to great times at Lake Martin this summer. And that action has a wide definition, from applauding wake surfer tricks as boaters pass by to scoring the best table for the quintessential moment when the sunset turns the sky and water to flame. Here’s to the big flavor of smooth, sweet memories and another great summer at the lake. 1 ounce Cathead Vodka 1 ounce Bacardi Rum 1/2 ounce Blue Curacao SpriteLemonadeFillaglass with ice, add liquor, fill with lemonade and a splash of Sprite.
LAKE 67SEPTEMBER 2022
Big Blue
Electronics have gotten more and more expensive (like everything else it seems) as technology has improved. To purchase a unit and forward sonar capability, an angler can drop upwards of $4,000 in a hurry. Not everyone can or is willing to spend that kind of money on a fish finder.
BIG CATCHES BY GREG VINSON
SEPTEMBER 2022
Our late friend Aaron Martens was the best in the game at that for years. He was famous for catching big bass on finesse tackle by putting the bait precisely in front of quality fish. A lot of anglers were good at it, but he refined it to the point that he was the best.
What we could once only do when fish passed under the boat now can be done in more real time over a 100-foot-plus radius around the boat using forward sonar. Now, an angler could see fish as they move throughout the water column around the boat. Many local tourna ments are being dominated by anglers using this technol ogy as well. For some who haven’t added it to their boat, it probably feels like a disadvantage. I know from experi encing it at the tour level, when side-imaging sonar burst onto the scene and later down imaging. I had to get it and learn to use it because I was getting beat by it in certain events on the Tennessee River.
If you’ve had a chance to watch some professional bass tour events lately, you’ve probably seen a lot of the anglers staring intently at their front graph almost the entire time. Chances are they’re locked into the forward facing sonar view on their screens before the cast, during the cast and throughout the retrieve. The tournament wins attributed to this technology have been stacking up; so much so, that there are growing numbers that either love it or hate it. Some are even calling for the technology to be Forwardbanned. sonar broke onto the scene six years ago with Garmin’s Panoptix. It blew me away the first time I saw it. In just 30 minutes using it, it was apparent that this was a game changer. I went to a spot on Lake Jordan where the fish are notorious for roaming open water as they hunt shad. Occasionally, they would school on the surface, disappear and pop up again out of casting reach. This was the story for this area for years. They were quality fish but relating to nothing more than schools of baitfish sus pended over 20 feet of water. In the first 10 minutes, I had learned to point the trolling motor in the direction of my cast. Using the scale on screen, I knew how far away my bait was from the boat and how deep it was. By keeping the trolling motor pointed at the bait, I could watch it come back to the boat. If I could see and follow my bait, I should certainly see fish, and I did. Within 30 minutes, I could recognize balls of baitfish (shad) and see the fish that were chasing them under the water. After a few failed attempts, I finally got the timing and distance right and cast a simple jigging spoon right in front of one of the fish. It zoomed over and ate it. It was a 3-pound largemouth suspended and cruising 10 feet deep in 20 feet of water. I would not have known that fish was even there before. I was sold. Since the original Panoptix was introduced, Garmin upped the anty with Livescope – and now, Livescope Plus, which has much better target separation. Lowrance and Humminbird have introduced their versions of for ward sonar technology as well. It’s become a staple for nearly all tour-level anglers because of the real time sonar view of what’s beneath the water. The current saying on tour is, “If you’re not scoping, you’re hoping.” Critics say, “It’s not fair to the fish.” Here’s the deal: With forward facing sonar, an angler could pull up to a promising spot, scan the area in front of around the boat for cover, bait, fish or depth changes in real time. Then, make a cast to a target; watch the bait land; watch it on the retrieve; and hopefully, watch a fish come and get it. Or depending on how the fish reacts to the bait, it may mean a different bait or color may work better. By trying different baits, colors or presentations with multiple fish, an angler could get a quicker dial in on what works best.So what’s all the fuss about? Why would there be some out there that seemingly hate this revolutionary technology and some even saying it should be banned? Here’s my opin ion as an angler but also as a fishing fan: First, it has changed how the game looks when we watch it on TV or live. As profes sional anglers have gotten more and more proficient with forward sonar, they are glued to the screen as they watch for cover and fish in their areas. Then they are glued to the screen as they make cast after cast to specif ic fish. Sometimes, it appears that they only look away long enough to line up their cast with where the trolling motor/transducer is pointed. This is a big con trast to how we’ve watched the game before. As long as I’ve been fishing, electronics have played a key role in locating fish and attempting to put bait as close as possible to the fish. Even back to the days of a flasher, anglers fished vertically, watching for the blip on the circular display to know where the bait was. Traditional sonar later improved to a point where anglers could see jigging spoons, drop shots or even live bait rigs on the screens and tell if fish were reacting.
Pros and cons of forward facing sonar
All the while, another angler with a solid pattern else where is doing work. It still comes down to efficiency, and sometimes that means moving on, even though you know the fish are there. The old saying, “Should I stay, or should I go?” has never been more in play. As it appears, I’m still a fan of forward facing sonar. My love for fishing comes from a desire to catch more and bigger fish every time I go. Anything that can help me achieve that goal is a plus. It’s improved my under standing of fish. Forward sonar has catapulted that ability for me and plenty of other anglers alike. We still have to first predict where they’ll be and what they’ll bite, but it’s unquestionably changed the game. And anytime there is such an earthquake type change, there will be some resis tance to it. The question one has to be asking is, “What’s coming next?” Greg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on the major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour. He lives in Wetumpka and grew up fishing on Lake Martin.
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For anglers who fish for a living, it’s a worthy investment and a must. Competitive angling has always pushed the bar higher as anglers have purchased bigger and faster boats, stronger trolling motors, stronger batteries, better electronics, better line, better hooks, better rods, better reels, higher quality baits and shallow water anchor poles, and the list goes on. This applies to any level of competitive angling, not just the professional tour levels. It forces anglers to make tough decisions based on their budgets. Just how much are they willing to spend on equipment to be competitive?
Forward facing sonar is a game changer capable of scanning a large area around the boat at any given time, but Lake Martin, for example is 44,150 acres of water. You can’t scan that large of an area using forward sonar, and you never will. Angler first have to revert back to the age-old process of predicting what type of area the fish should be relating to based on time of year and conditions. Then they have to predict what baits and presentations might work. Only after getting that portion right could they implement the capabilities of sonar technology. There are limits to forward facing sonar still. It’s effec tive in shallow water now, but not as effective as offshore. The shallower the bite, the less advantage an angler has with forward sonar, especially when the fish are in shal low cover. For predominantly shallow water anglers, this could present advantages in the coming years as the shal low fish become the less pressured ones.
As with sight fishing, there are going to be fish that are just plain hard to catch. An angler could see fish on the screen and put bait in front of them, but sometimes, the fish just aren’t going to bite, especially as they get more angling pressure. Valuable time could be wasted messing with fish that won’t be triggered into biting.
The equipment could make us more efficient anglers; yet, there is still the art of fishing that requires an angler to use knowledge and instincts.
LAKE 71SEPTEMBER 2022
Recognize that 60 percent to 80 percent of golf shots are played within 60 yards of the flagstick on each hole. Par 3 and par 4 holes factor half or more shots to be played close to or on the Talentedgreen.player or not, the same holds true.
THEPETERSCRAMBLEROUILLARD
Now consider that very few of us hit all the greens in regulation. So shorter shots from off the green factor into the percentage of shots taken within 60 yards. When a player can pitch, chip or blast a ball close enough to make the subsequent putt, strokes are saved. The shape, length and intensity of these shorter swings require less physical strength and exertion. Distance is not a factor, as most players of the game can easily hit the ball 60 yards or less. Developing better touch will control shot distance. Better pitching and chipping contribute to fewer putts. So do yourself a favor. Spend time wisely by spending equal or more time practicing shorter shots to improve your ability within 60 yards of the flag. Learn distance control. Saving shots when and wherever lowers scores and handicaps. If you need help with your game, see your local PGA professional. That professional has dedicated a career to you enjoying the game of golf.
M ost golfers have heard the phrase, “Tee it high, and let it fly.” Every golfer wants to hit farther. But far ther is not always better. Particularly when a shot is errant or not as desired. Far into the trees is less desirable than on the woods’ edge. Deep in the water versus short of a haz ard adds strokes to the scorecard. Swinging hard and/or out of control can be self-defeat ing to one’s game and attitude. There is no doubt good golfers have talent beyond the average enthusiast. Professional and most low handicap amateurs have worked long hours to develop touch while training muscles to produce the same swing over and over. Like any athlete, they have honed their craft through drive and passion; determined to reach the upper echelon of skillful players of the game. But they are also good strate gists. Playing safer golf shots could produce lower scores without taking unnecessary risks shot after shot. “Playing the percentages” refers to knowing when to charge versus playing more conservatively. Many of us do not have the ability, time, desire, passion or drive to become elite golfers; yet, we still want to score better while achieving rewarding results. Strategy is one aspect upon which we could all improve. The first aspect of strategy is how you spend your time in and around golf. Go back to my opening statement, “Tee it high and let it fly.” The reality is that most people learn golf backwards. We learn to hit the ball with a full swing on the driving range or golf course. We get frustrated but keep coming back. Eventually, we learn how to putt, chip, pitch and play out of bunkers.
Peter Rouillard is general manager at Stillwaters Golf and Copper's Grill. Distance isn't always better
If you have time occasionally to practice, spend equal or greater time on the putting green and short game practice area as you do hitting balls on the driving range. Consider arriving at the golf course 15 minutes early to at least chip and putt before a round.
As we take greater interest in the game or get better, we start trying to putt better; recognizing this is where the dif ference is made. But it is not just putting. Watch the better players at any club, and you’ll see they typically are the players with good short games and few putts in a round.
If par for the course being played is 72, and two putts are taken on every hole, then half the allocated shots are from within 60 yards.
72 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 63 280 280 229 63 22 22 9 9 9 259 63 63 WindStateCreekPark SemanEquality Union Central Red KentHill KowaligaBay Trillium Children’s Harbor Camp ASCCA Camp Alamisco Camp Kiwanis The Amp The Ridge Willow Point AlexanderCity Russell Farms Baptist Church Union Church Church in The Pines Liberty Church New Hope Church Mt.ChurchZion PleasantChurchGrove Flint ChurchHill Alex City Boat Ramp D.A.R.E.LandingPark PineyLandingWoods Paces Point Boat Ramp LandingUnion KowaligaLandingBoatFriendship Church Eclectic Tallassee 90 20 11 128 24 55 80 34 COOSA COUNTY ELMORE COUNTY 13 12 14 23 20 19 To SylacaugaLegend Public Boat CountyU.S.CampsChurchesRamps&ParksPowerlinesHighwaysRoads 1 3 4 10 11 2 7 5 29 18 24 19 22 15
3. Harbor Pointe 397256-825-0600MarinaMarinaPointRd., Dadeville, AL 36853 www.harborpointe.net
Dock Builders Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 180334-857-2443Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
2. Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 19256-397-1700RussellMarine Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
3. Blue Creek 7280256-825-8888MarinaHwy49S.,Dadeville, AL 36853
. Off the Beaton Path 21322205-994-0847Hwy.280, Dadeville, AL 36853
2. Real Island 2700256-397-1200MarinaRealIsland Rd., Equality, AL 36026
2. Lakeside7361256-825-9286MarinaHwy49S., Dadeville, AL 36853
6. Catherine’s 17256-215-7070MarketRussellFarmsRd., Alex City, AL 35010 Kowaliga295256-215-7035RestaurantKowaligaMarina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 Lake Martin Pizza 256-373-33375042Hwy49, Dadeville, AL 36853
1 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 12 13 4 5 6 6 14 15 16 17 27 28 29 27 1628 18 19 20 23 24 21 25 26 26 25 21 22
The Burritos Corner Mexican Grill 8605256-307-1887ALHWY 50, Dadeville, AL 36853
2. Lakeside Marina at Bay Pines 3455256-825-0999BayPine Rd., Jackson's Gap, AL 36861
Restaurants & Venues
. Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 8421334-391-0717Hwy.50, Dadeville, AL 36853
2. The Ridge 450256-397-1300MarinaRidgeMarina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Camp Hill
6. SpringHouse256-215-708012BensonMill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
4. Dark410256-234-5026InsuranceHillabeeStreet, Alex City, AL 35010 www.darkinsuranceagency.com
Lake Martin Alabama
Walnut JacksonsHillGap57
Churches Lake Pointe Baptist Church 8352256-373-3293Hwy.50, Dadeville, AL 36853
Advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map for as little as $25. Contact our Marketing Department at 256-234-4281 or marketing@alexcity outlook.com for more information. Lake BaptistPointeChurch Red Ridge United Methodist Church
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3. River North 250256-397-1500MarinaRiverNorthRd., Alex City, AL 35010
4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 1969334-541-2132Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
4. Russell Building Supply 350256-825-4256FultonStreet, Dadeville, AL 36853
Red Ridge United Methodist Church 8091256-825-9820CountyRd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853
4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 288256-794-1333StablesLoop, Alex City, AL 35010
Smith Marina - Shipwreck Sam's Froyo 256-444-8793smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com
LAKE 73SEPTEMBER 2022 49 50 50 280 280 49 49 Horseshoe Bend National Park Reeltown Stillwaters DadevilleBethel Church Pleasant BaptistLakeChurchRidgeMartinChurch TimbergutLanding LandingJaybird
2. Parker Creek 486256-329-8550MarinaParkerCreekMarina Rd., Equality, AL 36026
4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 1750256-234-2567Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010
. Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 8610334-857-1816Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
COUNTY
2. Alex City 2190256-215-FISH(3474)MarineCherokeeRd.,Alex City, AL 35010
LivingChurchLandingSmithoftheWaters
17 Marinas 1. Kowaliga255256-397-1210MarinaKowaligaMarina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Business & Shopping Lake Martin Storm Shelters 970256-794-8075Hwy.63South, Alex City, AL 35010
74 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 Lake Magazine Distribution ALEXANDER CITY Robinson Iron A & M Plumbing TheCarlosBody TallapoosaWalgreensShopPublishers, Inc. MooreJake's Wealth Management EmporiumCarlisle's Wine Cloud DowntownNine Girl Shay Aesthetics HillabeeJR'S Towers Senior Nutrition Center Noel MainStreetWarrenDarkFirstGeorgeBooneHardyRealtyInsuranceApplianceFamily Care Grace's Flowers Koon's Korner Larry's General Merchandise Daylight Donuts ValleyAlfa Bank - 280 TemplePricare Medical HometownBB&TAllStateBank Pharmacy Lake Martin Home Health Allen's Food Mart (Exxon) Karen Channell - State Farm NorthInsuranceLake Condo River Bend Store River North Marina Lake Martin Building Supply Petro Sho'Nuff BBQ Hair MarkDesignKing's Lake Martin Furniture Longleaf Antique Mall Playhouse Cinemas Chamber of Commerce Winn Re/MaxDixieAround the Lake City Hall A&E RussellRussellRenfroe'sMarathonRegionsMetalBank-280MarketMedicalCenterMarineBoating and TallapoosaKoon'sOutdoorsII Ford Dylan Johnson - Country Financial Holley's Home Furniture Jackson's Drugs Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark The Sure Shot Shell - 280 Big B GrainSatterfieldHolmanRussellRussellBar-B-QueDoItCenterHomeDecorFloorInc.&Leaf,Bottles & Cigars Tippy Canoe Love Lake Martin Real Estate Office Wind Creek Gate Wind Creek Store Willow Point Office Willow Point Country Club Smith Marina on Lake Martin KowaligaNails Marina Kowaliga RussellCatherine'sChildren'sRestaurantHarborMarketLandsCorporate Office Russell Lands Real Estate Sales SpringHouseCenter Restaurant Ridge Club Ridge Marina HACKNEYVILLE Hackneyville Water Authority NEW SITE Piggly Wiggly - New Site Foodland DADEVILLE Chamber of Commerce Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery Root 49 Salon Ellaby Boutique, LLC Alabama Power SiggersSiggers Barbershop Fusion AronovOskar'sHarborFullerRussellStillStillPoplarJim'sFarmersCenturySweetTallapoosaLakay'sRussellLakeshoreFoshee'sRenfroe'sMcKelveyValleyPNCPayne'sDadevilleAtDadevilleCafeLibrarytheBeautyShopCourthouseFurnitureBankBankChevroletMarketBoatDocPharmacyBuildingSupplyNutritionPickins21-RhondaGaskins&MerchantsBankPharmacyDawgsWatersCountryClubWatersHomeAssociationLandsRealtyRealtyPointeRealtyLakeMartin Creekside Lodge Blue Creek Marina Lakeside Marina HwyNiffers50 MillstoneEagleJapanese Maple Nursery Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Chuck's Marina Deep Water Docks Lake Martin Pizza CAMP HILL Link Gas Station KELLYTON Five Star Plantation EQUALITY Equality Food Mart Southern Star Parker Creek Marina Charles Borden ECLECTIC Lake Breeze Realty Offshore Marina Lake Martin Mini Mall Corner Stone Coffee Co. Lake Martin Dock Company Cotton's Alabama Barbecue Russell Do It Center Johnson Furniture WOW Catering LLC Eclectic Library Real Island Marina Anchor Bay Marina WetumpkaWetumpka Herald Office GetTallasseeTallasseeMarathonTallasseeEagleChamberParrisMullinsJr.O.D.Lakemagazinedelivered to your mailbox for just $50 per year. To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.
LAKE 75SEPTEMBER 2022 COACH KRAFT UPHOLSTERY Complete Marine Upholstery! ■ Floors ■ Carpets ■ Bimini Tops ■ Custom Seats ■ Mooring Covers Patrick Mason 334-283-6759 676 Dean Circle • Tallassee, AL www.coachkraft.com (334) 857-1816 8610 KOWALIGA ROAD ECLECTIC, ALABAMA OFF10% ee Senior Wellness Exams KOWALIGA WHOLE HEALTH PET CARE Mary S. Battistella, DVM Josh Morgan, DVM September Special Lake Martin Business and Service Directory Relax. Enjoy. Lake Martin.Call to order your subscription 256-234-4281LAKE MAGAZINE
76 LAKE SEPTEMBER 2022 Our Advertisers n To Join, Call 256.234.4281 Alex City Guide Service............................................. 8 Alex City Marine 70 Artic Air 52 AVSP 77 Blue Creek Iron Works ............................................ 75 Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation 8 Chuck's Marina 57 Coach Kraft Upholstery 75 Custom Docks............................................................ 20 Davco 75 Diamond Golf Cars 26 Docks Unlimited 5 Electronic Technology Group .................................. 75 Froggy Bottom Materials 17 George Hardy D.M.D. 8 Harbor Pointe Marina 67 Henderson Glass........................................................ 75 Heritage South Credit Union 70 Hinson Galleries 12 Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage .............. 75 Hughes Pools 20 Just Blinds 3 Karen Channell State Farm 75 Kowaliga Whole Health ............................................ 76 Lake Martin Dock 17 Lake Martin Mortgage 61 Lake Martin Pressure Washing 6 Lake Martin Realty ..................................................... 27 Lake Martin Signature Construction 33 Lake Martin Storm Shelters 57 Lamberth & Lamberth 57 Main Street Alexander City ..................................... 67 Mark King's Furniture 13 Moore Wealth Management 79 National Village 21 Off the Beaton Path .................................................... 8 Precise Pressure Washing 75 Prime Management 6 Raining Dogs Gallery ................................................ 75 Red Hawk Detailing 75 Reinhardt Lexus 53 Renaissance Electronics 5 Russell Lands .........................................................39, 80 Russell Medical 2 Satterfield 5 Security Pest Control 8 Singleton Marine......................................................... 76 Sparkle Cleaning Services 12 Sunrise Dock 12 Temple Medical Center 8 The Kelly ...................................................................... 60 Tippy Canoe 67 TowBoat US 60 UAB Heart & Vascular 59 US Bank ........................................................................ 26 Vacation Rental Management 75
Art & Photography Contest 2022 septemberSubmissionsNowallCallingartistAcceptingthrough23!
Clearly mark each entry with the artist’s name, address and telephone number and deliver entries to the office of Lake Martin Living magazine on or before 5 p.m. September 23. The office is located at 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, across from Benjamin Russell High School. Please call magazine editor-in-chief Betsy Iler at 256-234-4282 with questions or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.
Winners featured on the cover and inside pages of our October magazine edition. Submissions accepted in acrylics, oil, watercolor, pastels, pencil & photography. (Up to three works of art per artist accepted)
Entries must reflect life and scenes in Tallapoosa County or the Lake Martin area. All entries must be framed, matted or mounted on boards and ready to hang. A panel of local artists will judge the entries. There is no fee to enter, and no prizes or monetary awards will be made. This year’s contest is just for fun!
Photo by Kenneth Boone
"Nature uses human imagination to lift her work of creation to even higher levels."
Parting Shot
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~ Luigi Pirandello
Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Kestra IS or Kestra AS are not affiliated with Moore Wealth Management, Inc.
³https://www.onefpa.org/journal/Pages/The%204%20Percent%20Rule%20Is%20Not%20Safe%20in%20a%20Low-Yield%20World.aspx²https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-10-11/investment-returns-will-be-very-low-going-forward-ray-dalio-says-gold-could-prove-pr¹https://www.financial-planning.com/opinion/jack-bogle-forecasts-lower-stock-and-bond-returns
https://bit.ly/KF-DisclosuresTheopinionsexpressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney or tax advisor regarding your individual situation.
On Wednesday, September 28th, Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. will be conducting a complimentary webinar on methods of how to not outlive your retirement income. The workshop covers a number of issues including factoring in the above-mentioned changes to traditional assumptions, key risks (i.e., sequence rate of return and inflation), and various approaches to mitigating the risks of outliving your income. If you would like to be included in the webinar, please call 256.234.2761 or com.sarah@moorewealthmanagement.
Advertisement How To Keep Your Retirement On Track in a World of Low Returns
For example, lately several famous market observers, including John Bogle¹, the founder of the Vanguard Group, have warned that investors should reduce their expectations for their stock market investment returns to 4% a year. Ray Dalio², founder of one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world, also recently warned that “investment returns will be very low going forward.”Inaddition, several leading studies have challenged the validity of the traditional “4% rule.”
Developed back in the 1990’s when interest rates were higher for CDs and bonds, the rule stated that if a retiree kept their withdrawals limited to 4% of their initial retirement portfolio balance, that it should provide a sustained income for thirty years of retirement. However, Wade Pfau³, a professor of retirement income at the American College of Financial Services and Michael Finke of Texas Tech University, found that given the sustained current level of low interest rates that the level of acceptable initial withdrawals needed to be limited to 2.85% to provide an income for thirty years of retirement.TheStanford Center on Longevity recently published a study that recommended that retirees should focus on sources that were not exposed to stock market risk to cover essential expenses, i.e., Social Security or an annuity of one type or another. It found that if income to cover essential expenses was exposed to stock market risk that the emotional cost of worrying about meeting expenses during a stock market downturn would prompt many investors to make ill-advised investment decisions.
Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., is a financial advisor and wealth manager of Moore Wealth Management, Inc., with offices in Auburn, Montgomery, and Alexander City, AL. Susan has under advisement assets over $170 million (as of 1.21.2022) in brokerage and advisory assets through Kestra Financial and has been a financial planner for over 38 years. Contact Susan at 256.234.2761. Email contact is moorewealthmanagement.comsusan@
As a retiree, are you at risk for outliving your income? A serious question for serious times. Recently, several key assumptions traditionally used in retirement income planning are being challenged by leading financial industry experts. Are retirees who made those traditional assumptions still okay?
By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., Principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.
This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy real estate in The Heritage development to residents of Connecticut, Hawaii, Idaho, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania or South Carolina, or to residents of any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law. No offering can be made to residents of New York until an offering plan is filed with the Department of Law of the State of New York. The Heritage is a proposed planned master development on the shores of Lake Martin, Alabama that does not yet exist.
Firepits and birthdays. Starry nights and laughter. There’s no life more wonderful than The Heritage on Lake Martin. Set among Lake Martin’s nearly 900 miles of shoreline surrounding over 40,000 acres of pristine water, The Heritage is a 1,500-acre waterfront development along 12 miles of sparkling shoreline—all from Russell Lands, one of the South’s most respected land companies. The stunning community features spectacular waterfront and luxury interior homesites, as well as a flagship resident-owned lake club and private Coore & Crenshaw golf course. Don’t miss your chance to start your own cherished traditions. Opportunities to rewrite your Heritage are now open. Contact us today.
THE HERITAGE FROM RUSSELL LANDS. EXQUISITE WATERFRONT LOTS NOW AVAILABLE. RussellLands.comRealEstate@RussellLands.com256.215.7011
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