People, events and culture in the Lake Region Lake Martin September www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving2022 Living Alabama Cotton Festival • Dadeville Fall Festival • BBQ, Blues & Brews The FALL FESTIVAL Issue
Fall in love with the drive.
Resort, Golf, Tennis, Fishing, Spa, and Wooded Trails
DISCOVER A GOLF LIFESTYLE LIVING ALONG GRAND NATIONAL GOLF COURSE
Everyday Grandeur
New Homes With Amenities:
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.
Lake Martin Living 3 TO LEARN MORE, CALL US AT 334.749.8165 OR VISIT WWW.NATIONALVILLAGE.COM.
Luxurious
LUXURIOUS
Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copy righted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email Advertisingeditor@lakemartinmagazine.com.inquiriesmaybemadeby calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.
4 Lake Martin Living CreativeKennethChairmanBoonePublisherSteveBakerEditor-in-ChiefBetsyIlerServicesAudraSpears Business & Digital Publishing Director Angela www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinlivingAudienceBreannaKennethContributorsMullinsBooneManleyDaveJenningsLaceyHowellShaneHarrisTeresaGrierSusanLedbetterGinaAbernathyCliffWilliamsKaitlinFlemingWillMarlowAbigailMurphyDevelopmentDirectorErinBurtonMarketing/AdvertisingSalesTippyHunterMarilynHawkinsReneeTriceSherylJenningsJenniferWelchDigitalServicesTaminkoKelleyLakeMartinLivingP.O.Box999AlexanderCity,AL35011256-234-4281
Alexander City’s annual Harvest Festival will take over downtown on Oct. 29 with fall vegetables, inflatables, arts and crafts, a walking history tour by Alexander City Theatre II and more. But before the Harvest Festival, Main Street Alexander City will host the inaugural BBQ, Blues and Brews event with televisions in the beverage tent, so you won’t miss a minute of the game. Learn about both of these festivals on page 27.
From the Editor’s Desk Lake Martin Living
Then, hop over to page 24 for Breanna Manley’s article about the nearly 40-year-old rivalry between the neighboring towns of Reeltown and Tallassee. Snapchat’s AJ Greene added this year’s game to his travel schedule after hearing about the rivalry.
This event celebrates the past, present and future of Eclectic with a day of music, food, a classic car show featuring 150 models and more fun with family and friends than you could have with a litter of puppies. Read the article on page 16, so you know before you go; and then, have a great day in Eclectic.Dadeville’s annual Fall Festival hits the downtown streets on Oct. 15 with pony rides and bouncy houses for the kids, music, food, arts and crafts vendors and more. This event gets bigger and better every year, so check out the article on page 28 and enjoy the season in Dadeville.
Betsy Iler, Editor-in-Chief
And be sure to check out the rules for this year’s Lake Martin Living Art & Photography Contest on page 38. And be sure to get your entries in, as the Sept. 23 deadline is just around the corner.
F
We’re looking forward to fall at Lake Martin Living magazine and hope to see you soon at these cool area festivals and more.
This month, we also bid a fond farewell in these pages to golf columnist Dave Jennings. Dave retired as men’s golf coach at Central Alabama Community College this semester and will move his writings to Lake magazine on a quarterly basis. Look for his first golf feature there in December.
all makes its appearance this month – at least on the calendar if not in actual temperatures – and that means festivals and football in the South. Experience a little of both in this Fall Festival issue of Lake Martin Living magazine. We’ve highlighted some of the biggest and best local festivals, and we’ve got the inside scoop on an area football rivalry that garnered attention from a national social media celebrity thisTheyear.Alabama Cotton Festival hits the streets of Eclectic Oct. 8 with some 300 vendors and lots of activities for the kids.
Lake Martin Living 5
THE YOUPAPERLOVE Brought to life on your digital device At no extra cost when you subscribe Experience real lives on the pages of each day’s paper as they come alive like never before. Every day The Outlook is available at your fingertips in a dynamic and interactive format. EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA IMPORTANT Be informed! LOCAL Be involved! Be a reader! NEWS DON’T MISS OUT! SUBSCRIBE256-234-4281NOW! alexcityoutlook.com
ON THE COVER
6 Lake Martin Living
Local fall festivals offer opportunities for friends and family to gather and enjoy all that our wonderful communities have to offer, from arts and crafts shows to spotlighting local talent and sharing favorite Southern foods. Don’t miss the festival fun at these time-tested events throughout the area as temperatures fall.
24 9. AROUND THE AREA 10. GO LOCAL 14. FROM THE TEE 19. GARDEN TALK 26. GOOD EATS 32. MEDICAL NEWS 34. MONEY MATTERS 34. OH SNAP! 38. LAKE REGION EVENTS 46. CULTURE SHOCK IN EVERY ISSUE Fall in the South is for festivals and football, like the unique rivalry between Tallassee’s Tigers and the Reeltown Rebels
FEATURES 16 ALABAMA COTTON FESTIVAL After two years of Covid, this Eclectic celebration returns in style. 22. AND THE WINNERS ARE ... Readers choose their favorite local businesses in Tallapoosa and Elmore counties. 24. A RIVALRY OF NATIONAL PROPORTIONS Neighboring local schools face off each year in a contest that draws national attention. 27. FESTIVAL FUN IN ALEXANDER CITY Main Street Alexander city hosts two can't-miss events this fall. 28. DADEVILLE FALL FESTIVAL Dadeville rolls out the food and fun for this fabulous fall festival.
Photo by Cliff Williams
8 Lake Martin Living For EveryFor OfOStageStagefLifeLife WWW.OBGYNMONTGOMERY.COM 525 Hospital Drive, Suite B, Wetumpka, AL 36092 334-279-9333 Gynecology Obstetrics LivingAssisted& SCALF Short Term Rehab NursingLong&OccupationalPhysical,SpeechTherapyTermSkilledCare We Touch the Lives of theYouPeopleLoveCongratulationsStaffandResidentsforbeingvoted NursingBestHome and your FreeDeficiency2021AnnualNursingHomeSurvey PM21_AD_Mag_3.535x9.75_Half_Award.indd 1 10/5/21 10:38 AM
The wickedly delicious pickle recipe that put Dadeville on the map will now spice up other national products, including Jack's hamburgers and craft beer. Last month, Wickles Pickles co-founder Will Sims and Jack's Family Restaurants CEO Todd Bartmess announced a collaboration for the new Jack's Wickles Bacon Burger. That announcement soon was followed by another from Hi-Wire Brewing Company of Asheville, North Carolina.
Hi-Wire Brewing’s Wickles Pickle Beer is a sour ale brewed
Reserved parking is still the same as any year in the past, along with general parking. The traffic pattern has been created to increase pedestrian safety and maneuverability.~Henry Zimmer
“Here in the South, we love our pickles and a nice, cold craft beer, and now we love Hi-Wire Brewing’s Wickles Pickles Beer,” said Will Sims, cofounder of Wickles Pickles alongside his brother, Trey, and their buddy Andy Anderson. “We can’t think of a better combination than our 90-year-old custom blend of spices at work with an award-winning brewery known for fun and approachability.”
Both lanes will be used to flow traffic in one direction: in from Elkahatchee, and out onto 22.
Develop a game plan prior to leaving home and celebrate responsibly, Taylor suggested. Select a designated driver or reserve a ride-share service to ensure everyone’s safety while traveling to and from games.
“When you first arrive in our state, a common question is, ‘Are you an Alabama or Auburn fan?’ This is just one of the many intense rivalries that occur across our state each year. We recognize and understand the anticipation as well as excitement for fans to watch and enjoy their favorite game," Taylor said.
MONTGOMERY – The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency wrapped up its 101 Days of Safety program Labor Day weekend; however, the agency now turns its attention to another celebrated season in the South − football.
Dadeville's own Wickles Pickles nwo are being used in recognizednationallyproducts.
ALEA kicks off football season with safety campaign Newparkingseasonfootballplan
Lake Martin Living 9 AROUND THE AREA
with all includingPicklesWicklesiningredientspickle-makingthethefamousrecipe,cucumbers, dill, coriander, Himalayan salt and black pepper. Cracking open a can conjures the same tangy aromas that come with twisting the lid off of a pickle jar, while the beer is refreshingly tart with notes of fresh dill and subtle spice reminiscent of Wickles Pickles’ famously sweet, sour and spicy brine.
This limited release is rolling out now in four-packs of 16-ounce cans across HiWire’s nine-state distribution footprint, as well as the brewery’s eight taproom locations. A limited number of cases were also available for shipping directly to consumers in 34 states at shop.hiwirebrewing.com but sold out the day of their release. The limited-time Jack's burger is available until Oct. 4 at every Jack's location in the Southeast.
~
Please Pass the Pickles
“The South has kicked off football season into high gear with high school games every Thursday and Friday night, and university/college games each Saturday. Even if you aren’t a football fan, heavier-than-usual game day traffic is likely to affect you,” said Hal Taylor, ALEA secretary.
Only beJr.CharlesentranceonetotheE.BaileySportplexwillusedongame
~ Staff report
Wickles Pickles announces collaborations
In addition, expect traffic congestion, especially on gameday, and drive defensively. Be patient when leaving the stadium and heading home. Staff report
days for this year's football season − the access off of Elkahatchee Road. No entrance will be permitted from state Route 22. A police officer at 22 will re-direct traffic.
Single-Direction Traffic Traffic patterns for local games have been changed due to safety concerns.
“Nothing says ‘All About the South’ quite like two local companies coming together to bring some of the best in Southern taste to our fans,” said Bartmess. “We are thrilled to share Wickles Pickles with our guests across all the communities we serve.”
FencePicket
“My son, Ethan, can help you,” Forbus recommended. Little did Gregg know the conversation would spark a friendship and future business partner.
“I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur, so I started We Haul,” explained the young Forbus.
Gregg brought many family heirlooms with her when she moved.“My family had passed down many beautiful pieces for generations. The only problem was, most of them were very heavy,” said Gregg.
MLOCAL
“I explained to him that moving antiques was different than moving regular furniture, and I was impressed at how interested he was. I knew I could trust him with some very valuable pieces,” Gregg said.
“This is home,” she said.
So she reached out to longtime friend and local artist, Charles Forbus, and asked if he knew anyone who could help her move some of the heavy furniture.
Ethan Forbus was 18 at the time and about to graduate from Benjamin Russell High School, but he had already started his own business − moving furniture.
10 Lake Martin Living GO
Soon after she returned, she began thinking of ways to become part of the community. Her years of collecting items from estate sales and a love of antiques inspired her to open a business that fed her passion.
oving back to Alexander City was something Ellen Gregg was looking forward to after living on the family farm in Hamilton, Alabama, since 1998 to help her parents.
“My daughter and son-in-law are Marines. They are not close by with my grandchildren, so I just kind of adopted Ethan and think of him as a son,” said Gregg.
Forbus had also started another business: purchasing items he found on Facebook Marketplace and reselling them with free delivery through his We Haul business.
He’d dedicated his studies at BRHS to the Business Academy, and after winning the largest grant awarded by a board of local business owners, his business teacher encouraged him to embrace his entrepreneurial spirit. So when Gregg called him for help, he headed right over.
Décor and More Left: Vendor booths showcase furniture, artwork, china and more; Top Right: Gregg creates attractive vignettes with books, knick knacks and other merchandise; Bottom Right: Jewelry by Annie Bartol and other local artists can be found at Picket Fence Antique Mall and Estate Sales.
The floor is divided into sections that allow the vendors
Lake Martin Living 11
STORY BY ERIN CHESNUTT PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER
to display what they would like to showcase. Small shelf areas are allocated for local artists and authors, and Gregg and Forbus take a commission for those sales. A local baker has become a popular addition, selling jams and jellies and other baked goods. There are currently 10 sections rented, but there is room for about 18.
The official grand opening for Picket Fence is scheduled for Sept. 24. The store will welcome shoppers with samples of popular baked goods; a local musician will entertain, and some of the artists will be on site to display their work. Picket Fence is located at 12 Main St., Alexander City.
When local businessmen Larkin Radney and Kenny Riley contacted Gregg about leasing the retail area inside the Carlisle Drugs building, she called Forbus to see if he would be interested in partnering with her. Although Gregg was a little apprehensive, Forbus was excited about the opportunity, and Picket Fence Antique Mall and Estate Sales became a new business on Main Street on Aug.
These newest business owners on Main Street agree that the best part of running the business is getting to know the customers and learning what they would like to find in the store.
“There are a lot of talented people in Alexander City and Tallapoosa County, and we want them to be able to showcase their talent right here at home. We hope that people will come here to find what they need and keep the money here at home,” Forbus said.
The1.pair joined Main Street Alexander City and started contacting local artists, antique enthusiasts, pottery makers and even a local baker to offer their wares at the location. Vendors rent space in the store by the square foot and bring in items to sell.
12 Lake Martin Living
Lake Martin Living 13
14 Lake Martin Living
split. That wasn’t the case. Those first two years, found us at the bottom of the leaderboard; however, I was overthe-moon proud when the team qualified for the national championship in our district championship. We finished third. About 3 miles off the property on the trip home, I pulled over, got out of the van and opened the sliding passenger door. I told them all to get out of the van and, with a tear in my eye, told the boys how proud I was of them.Inmy second year, Kyle Sullivan won the tournament at Brewton Country Club after making a double eagle on a par 5. The first individual win under me. While playing with me at Farmlinks that year, Kyle aced No. 5, hitting a beautiful 5-iron. We played and practiced at Farmlinks three or four times a week that year, as Willow Point was beingTherenovated.following year, we played a tournament at Rock Creek Golf Club in Fairhope. Somehow, we won that tournament, and it was the first team win for me at CACC. Liz Kling, wife of Faulkner State Community College head coach, Leo Kling told me, “Coach Jennings, that’s what a CACC Golf Team usually does, finishes on top.” We began to win more and more.
I remember threading a long iron through the pines on No. 3 and hitting a driver from the back tee of No.11 with the wind howling in my face. Trying to pull the correct club for the tee shot on No. 13, as a poorly struck shot or mis-club would find my ball at the bottom of Lake Martin.
I
A
Not-So-FinalFarewell
For 25 years, between the ages of 21 and 46, I didn’t have physically play Willow Point, but I played it over and over and over in my mind hundreds of times.
n October 2001, Dr. Jim Cornell hired a former student-athlete, namely me, as head men’s golf coach at Central Alabama Community College. Those early days, months and years play over and over again in my mind.For spring and fall in 1976, I was a member of the Alexander City State Junior College Men’s Golf Team. In those years, our golf team played either Willow Point Country Club or Stillwaters daily. I was among eight of the best golfers I had ever played with on a regular basis. I considered myself to be a good golfer, but on this team, I only qualified to compete a few times. The life-long friendships that were born then have grown stronger throughout my life.
I still remember playing Willow Point, including hitting a driver on No. 7 and begging the ball to hold the fairway; hitting a driver on No. 15 with the wind out of the north using body English to help the ball to stay left away from the pond lurking on the right. Hole No. 4 nearly always left me with a scary half wedge to a shallow green on the approach shot. Hole No. 2, praying for a two-putt when my golf ball was on the wrong level.
When I took the head golf coach position, I thought I could put together a national championship team lickety-
Fast forward to 2022. With 71 team tournament wins, 30 runner-up finishes, 19 PING All-Americans, 17 Team Academic All-Americans and two national championship wins, I am in the final month of my college golf coaching career. Before coming to CACC, I spent my life working on my golf game, playing mini-tour events, assistant and teaching golf professional in Birmingham, Pennsylvania and Georgia, head golf professional of a public golf facility in south Atlanta and national sales manager of the
Lake Martin Living 15
golf division for a headwear manufacturer in Atlanta before I was asked to coach the Trojans.Before 2001, I found some level of success at nearly all of the work I had done but never felt those jobs were going to last me to retirement. Not until I came to Alexander City did I ever feel at home. My job was here; the people I now call friends, the healing hands that saved my life from cancer are all here, the student-athletes who I recruited, trained and transferred from here, Willow Point and Lake Martin are here, and so many other things here make me know full-heartedly that God is in charge. He will direct you to where you need to be and to do what you should do. I am so blessed by the opportunity that was offered to me by MovingCACC.forward, my plans are to assist high school age golfers in multi-day clinics in player development, teaching them o practice efficiently and effectively improve their golf games. I also will help these younger golfers and their parents to get the attention of college golf coaches and to find college programs that best fit their needs.
A few colleges and universities have asked me to assist their teams with player development. Through these clinics, I won’t provide traditional golf swing lessons. I will help my students learn to get more bang for their golf
Many talented golfers struggle with timemanagement, course management and skill shots from 100 yards and in. A lot of hours are wasted on the practice tee. I’ll help students make the most of their time and practice effectively within their allotted time. I started a company called Jennings Golfhelp, LLC. I have a website at jenningsgolfhelp.com. I have a couple high school clinics scheduled and will set up more throughout the year, after retiring. I will continue to help the players at CACC. As the new coach would like, I will help the team as a volunteer assistant coach.
Thank you all for making me feel at home in Alexander City. Thank you for your prayers when I battled cancer. Thank you for your friendship. May God always bless you.
Many of you have helped to make the CACC golf program successful. I hope you will continue to support the Trojans. The golf team was very good before I came. I’ve had a bunch of good years, and I hope it remains very good after I leave.
~ Dave Jennings retires this month as men's golf coach at Central Alabama Community College.
theFromTee
lesson buck. I hope to push more junior and college golfers back to swing instructors for higher quality swing lessons.
If you're bored and looking for me later this year, find me in Lake magazine in December.
Dave Jennings
“She’s got this new little brown one. Just cute as can be. She takes these alpacas to daycares and nursing
labama Cotton Festival returns to downtown Eclectic Oct. 8 even bigger and better than its previous 28 festival events, said festival organizer Carmen Winslett.
homes. They’re sort of aalsoWinsletttherapylikedogs,”said.Andrewswillhaveboothwhere
STORY BY BETSY ILER
And indeed, her volunteers do just that. Winslett expects to sign up about 300 vendors who will line the downtown streets from Main Street to the Quick Stop and First Avenue from Collins to College. From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., the free kids zone will hop with activity. There will be zoo animals visiting until 10 a.m., and Alabama Wildlife Federation will introduce kids to some of the residents at Alabama Nature Center from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Allison Andrews will bring her therapy alpacas for a demonstration, too.
Arts and Crafts Marketplace Festival organizer Carmen Winslett expects close to 300 vendors to display their wares at this year's Alabama Cotton Festival.
A
“There will be a wide selection. Just about anything you want to eat will be there,” Winslett said.
“When we started this event, it was my goal to bring in the people and show them what a great place Eclectic is. I love this town. I love the businesses. I love the people, and this is one day out of the year to just show it off and celebrate our town,” Winslett said.
Entertainment will be center stage all day with some local favorites looking forward to the return of
“We expect about 40 entries in the dog show. The entry fee is $4, and all the proceeds go to the Elmore County Humane Society,” Winslett explained.
The carnival games also will return to this year’s event. Bouncy houses and the dog show are expected to draw crowds as well.
AlabamaFestivalCotton
Prizes will be awarded for the biggest dog, smallest dog, waggiest tail, mayor’s favorite, best of show and more. All entrants must show proof of rabies vaccination and be kept on leash.
“Before we had to take a year off for COVID last year, we 12,000 people at the Cotton Festival in 2020. From the response we’re getting on social media, we are expecting 15,000 to 20,000 next month,” Winslett said.The event has earned a lot of social media attention in recent years, as the festival was No. 3 on the 2019 “Only in Your State” list of festivals not to miss and No. 9 on the 2019 USA Tales/Alabama site.
In addition, Eclectic Police Corporal Tim Thornton and his Dutch shepherd K-9 partner, Ivo, will show off skills that put the team in the top three at the Central Alabama Police K-9 Association’s recent Narcotics Competition.Foodvendors at the event will hawk all manner of treats, from barbecue and boiled peanuts to gumbo and frozen cheesecake on a stick.
16 Lake Martin Living
festival goers will find clothing and accessory items made from alpaca wool.
The Alabama Cotton Queen pageant will take place one week prior to the festival. Young ladies from infancy to age 15 are encouraged to enter for the honor of representing the festival. First Baptist Church in Eclectic will host the pageant. Entry is $40 per contestant and an additional $10 for entrants in the Most Photogenic Contest. Download an entry form from the Facebook page.
Making Music, Making Fun
Live entertainment is center stage with many local favorites returning to the festival this year.
Some 100 volunteers are needed to set up and run
this year’s event. The Back Porch Pickers will perform not only bluegrass, as their moniker suggests, but also a wide selection of music from all genres. wonderful.“They’re They can play anything,” sheSweetsaid. Creek Cloggers also will put on a 45-minute show. Look up andentriesshowpage.FestivalAlabamascheduleentertainmenttheontheCottonFacebookTheclassiccarfeatured150in2020,Winslettlooks
Winslett also is excited to welcome a special guest, Retired Col. Desmond Bailey, U.S. Army, who was instrumental in the 2003 capture of Saddam Hussein, an Iraqi president whose rule was marked with human rights abuses and bloody invasions of neighboring Kuwait and Iran. Bailey wrote a book, entitled Recon 701, about the mission and will sign books for festival goers.“What this man has done for our country is amazing,” Winslett said.
Lake Martin Living 17
The vendors will include mobile boutiques, goats milk products, bee products, artists and a number of artisans who will demonstrate their crafts on site, including a chainsaw carver.
forward to more entries in that popular section this year.
the 29th Alabama Cotton Festival, starting at 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7.
“We’ll start parking vendors at 4 p.m. on chairmenforoftown,towhoaOrchardthroughthelookworthwork,said.streets,”willafternoonFridayandcloseofftheWinslett“It’salotofbutit’ssoit.WhenIupanddownstreetsandthePecanandseeseaofpeoplehavecomecelebrateourit’safeelingaccomplishmentmeandforthewho
To volunteer, register as a vendor or otherwise take part in this year’s Alabama Cotton Festival, call Winslett at 256-794-0379.
run these events and the volunteers who work to make it successful. It will take everyone to make this happen, but it will be wonderful.”
Lake Martin Living 19
utumn is known for its cooler weather, gorgeous fall colors of trees, roadside flowers of all shades, and of course, football. But if you spend time outside or take a leisurely stroll along a path this fall, you can’t help but notice all the spider webs. Like it or not, autumn is also the time to observe or be spooked by some really neat spiders and their amazing webs.
The variety of colors, shapes and sizes of orb weavers is quite interesting. Some are itsy bitsy, and others are large and sort of creepy.The coolest orb weaver is the Black and Yellow Argiope. It is a large spider – well over 1 inch long, which could be intimidating – but it’s friendly. The Black and Yellow Argiope is often nicknamed the garden spider, as it may construct its web between two shrubs or amongst the flowers in the garden or near the house. The web is beautiful and may have zigzag pattern in the middle. The Argiope spider is beneficial since it feeds on insects in the garden. But if you get too close, the spider might vibrate its web to try to look menacing or scare you away.
By late summer and early fall, there is a population peak of insects and spiders. A hike along a forest trail or drive down an old field road often reveals all kinds of spiders and webs. You may even walk right into a web and be eye level with a spider if you are not paying attention. Don’t be frightened; they may appear scary, but these spiders are all harmless.
Shane Harris
Friends of the Garden Facing Page: Golden Silk Spiders are the most impressive weavers in Alabama; Below Left: The Marbled Orb Weaver is seen while deer hunting; Below Right: The Crablike Spiny Orb sometimesWeaverwaddles as it moves about its web.
Although most people do not care for them, especially when running into their webs, these fall spiders are unique creatures. Most fall spiders that spin those familiar, large, flat, circular webs belong to a group called orb weavers. They are typically the ones that suspend their large, foot-wide webs between shrubs, along porches, across paths and along widow frames. Their webs are very organized and resemble circular grids; many are spectacular, especially in the morning theAccordingdew.toUniversity of Kentucky, these spiders need weeds, fences, trees, walls or other upright structures to build their webs. But they often become nuisances when building large webs in places inconvenient for humans.Orbweavers eat almost
The most common orb weaver spider found around houses and other buildings in the fall is the Spotted Orb Weaver, sometimes referred to as the barn spider. Almost 1 inch long, it is mostly dull brown in color with reddish tinted markings on its legs. It appears in late summer to early fall and may be discovered on porches or eaves of houses or barns. This spider has been known for building its web in front of an exterior door during the night or suddenly appearing at the edge of the porch under a light. Amazingly, the Spotted Orb Weaver somehow knows to place its large web near floodlights where night flying insect activity is high, so moths and other bugs will be caught. The most impressive orb weavers found in Alabama are the Golden Silk Spiders. Ranging from 1 to 2 inches in length, females are among the largest non-tarantula-like
anything small enough to get trapped in their webs, especially small insects and other spiders. Like most webbuilding spiders, orb weavers tend to have poor vision; they don’t need to see very well to hunt because they can feel it when prey gets caught in their webs.
A
GARDENTALK Wonder Weavers
spiders in North America and are, perhaps, the largest orb weavers in the U.S. These large orange and brown spiders, with golden tubular abdomens, are all legs with feathery tufts. Stretched out and resting in their webs, female Golden Silk Spiders could have leg spans of 3 to 4 inches long. These spiders and their 3-foot webs are found most frequently at edges of forest clearings, shady woods and alongside forest trails.Another large and colorful spider you might see is the Marbled Orb Weaver. It is about 3/4-inch long, has a bright yellow abdomen with dark camouflage-like markings and an orange head and legs. This spider and its web is often found between trees, shrubs and tall weeds and among grasses in moist, wooded settings. Unlike the argiope spider, the Marbled Orb Weaver often builds a silken retreat of folded leaves that might look like a tent to the side of the web. It will hide there until prey is caught in its web. This spider reminds me of fall the most because of its orange and yellow body, and it’s often stumbled upon while deer hunting.Everseen a triangle shaped spider or a crab-like spider? Some of the smaller orb weavers have very neat shapes, distinctive spikes and vibrant colors. The Arrow-shaped Micrathena, Spined Micrathena
Halloween Décor
Left: The Black and Yellow Argiope will vibrate its web if onlookers come too close; Below: Spotted Orb Weavers are known for building webs over exterior doors during the night.
20 Lake Martin Living
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
(256)
~ Shane Harris is the County Extension Coordinator for Tallapoosa County. Email him at aharris@aces.edu or call him at 256-825-1050.
On the other hand, Halloween is just around the corner. If you have the spiders and their amazing webs, there is no need for spooky decorating. The real ones are a scream.
It’s showtime for the spider when prey gets trapped in the web. The orb weaver spider senses or feels the vibrations in the web. She quickly grabs it, injects the moth with venom to paralyze it and wraps it in silk webbing from its spinneret, located on the abdomen. Later, when it is hungry, the orb weaver will feed on the captured insect’s now liquefied inside contents.
Lake Martin Living 21
Our expanded clinical team is ready to serve you. Schedule a visit today by calling 256-234-2644. Highway 280, Suite City, AL 35010 234-2644
and Arrowhead Spiders are about 1/2-inch long and are common in meadows, along the edges of forests and along woodland trails.
• uabmedicine.org/HeartRussell
• Interventional cardiology care
The most bizarre may be the Crablike Spiny Orb Weaver, which is about the size of a dime but looks vicious with its white or yellow body and spines. It tends to waddle as it moves throughout its web. All of these spiders are notorious for weaving their webs at face-level along trails or amongst landscape plants.
If you can tolerate the presence of fall spiders, enjoy them for now. Despite looking creepy, they are neat and beneficial. These spiders eat lots of small insects, including flies, moths, beetles, wasps and mosquitoes. During the day, these spiders may hide and rest near their webs. They are most active at night when adult females could be found sitting in the middle of their webs waiting for visitors and snacks.
WatchingYuck!these orb weaver spiders build their webs is interesting. But you may choose to admire them from a distance. If you wish to get rid of them, try washing them off with a forceful jet of water or sweeping them down with a broom. Reduce outdoor lighting, so it does not attract insects. That could help to discourage spiderweb building.
• Advanced ultrasound testing
• Management of cardiac rhythm disorders
Our clinic is backed by the knowledge and expertise of UAB Medicine, including:
FEELING THE CALL OF FALL? MAKE SURE YOUR HEART IS HEALTHY
HEART & VASCULAR CLINIC AT RUSSELL MEDICAL 3368
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.
• Nuclear medicine imaging in fully accredited labs
130 • Alexander
22 Lake Martin Living Nominations received over a 14 day span, our Readers nominated their top 3 favorties in each category 6,909 Readers' Choice 3,017 Elmore County Best of 2022 6,041 Unique Voters Victorious Winners. Now let the bragging begin! Every year, Tallapoosa Publishers hosts the Tallapoosa County Readers’ Choice Awards and Elmore County Best of (2022) Contest in which the locals vote for their favorite restaurants, boutiques, golf courses and more. Here are a few fun facts from this year’s surveys. Get the full scoop from special section reports in The Outlook on Sept. 21 and The Wetumpka Herald on Sept. 28. By the Numbers The Votes for the Best! 128,269 Readers' Choice 91,695 Elmore County Best of 2022 Best of Elmore County 2022 CategoriesReaders'CategoriesChoice183180 A special supplement toThe Wetumpka Herald and Tallassee Tribune toCongratulationsallofourwinners and a big thank you to our readers.
Lake Martin Living 23 Lake Martin’s Marine Construction Company 6732 Highway 63 South, Alexander City, AL 35010 | (256) 392-5200 | www.sunrisedocksllc.com
“It is presented each year. We have it now, but next year when the game’s played, we’ll carry the trophy to the game, and whichever team wins will be presented with the trophy. That makes it like one of the bowl games. It’s just something you can put up in the office and remind everybody that you got it for 365 days, but you’re going to have to go do it again when the time comes to keep it,” Battles explained.
“They’re right up the road from us, and besides that, I think the close proximity and the fact that it has been so competitive throughout, we’ve played them 19 times now, and the win-loss is 10 to 9. We’ve got an advantage this
The rivalry has been an ongoing one for a couple of decades now and has proven to still bring an infectious excitement each year. The name of the battle stems from the Tallapoosa River, which divides the two towns. With a win comes bragging rights for the winning team; for the losing team, it means working even harder to try to win the next go around. Even the coaches, Reeltown’s Matt Johnson and Tallassee’s Mike Battles, feel the sting whenever their team loses.“The teams have always been fine playing against each other,” Battles said.
STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY & PHOTO BY CLIFF WILLIAMS
we’re so intertwined. You really don’t have to get anybody fired up for this one.”
The Battle of the Tallapoosa was first played in 1984, spanning more than two decades. Following its debut in ’84, the two teams met on the field until ’91; and then, the game was revived in ’96, lasting until 2003. The game ceased in 2003, and the communities were unsure if they would ever get the chance to see the two teams back at it again, but the 2020 season brought back the Battle of the Tallapoosa.
From Battles’ point of view, getting the communities pumped up about the game doesn’t take a huge effort; it’s ofagainstlotReeltown.hereweek.Alabamaupdon’tBattlesAlabamagamesbutthatwecompetition. forgreatbringstogameunderstoodcommonlythatthisislookedforwardyear-roundandtwogroupsofplayerstogetheraboutoffriendly“JustlikeReeltown,haveapeprallydayandallweek,that’soneofthosethat’skindoflikeandAuburn,”explained.“YouhavetofirefolkswhenitcomestoandAuburnSamethingoverwithTallasseeandWehaveaofcousinsplayingeachother,alotfamilymembers.Imean,
Fans and community members have taken to social media themselves to share their excitement and support for their team. Videos featuring key community members and fans can be found scattered on YouTube, Facebook and other social media platforms.
The
The close proximity has been noted by those within the community because the rivalry stands out amongst others around, and Battles believes this, too.
Along with bragging rights for the next year, the winning team gets presented with the King of the Tallapoosa trophy, which adds to the thrill of winning.
Every year the game has been played, it has produced a huge crowd. This year, the crowd was even bigger because of the appearance of Greene who was drawn to the Thursday night game for the level of passion for the rivalry. Greene was so invested in the game he traveled to Alabama with his team to cover the game for his show on social media’s Snapchat, as well as his other social media platforms.
A Rivalry of National Proportions
24 Lake Martin Living
Battle of the Tallapoosa stretches far beyond the Reeltown Rebels and the Tallassee Tigers. The longstanding rivalry has been featured in newspapers, has been the subject of many YouTube videos, and most recently, has drawn the attention of social media star AJ Greene who attended this year’s contest to see exactly why the game is so heavily anticipated each year. This year, the Tallassee Tigers hosted the Battle of the Tallapoosa on Aug. 18 and came out with a win against the Reeltown Rebels 37 to 13.School rivalries are a common development among schools close to one another, but most aren’t widely known and appreciated quite like this one. This rivalry is special because of how seriously it’s taken. From the time the two teams face each other to the next time they face each other 365 days later, they’re preparing. As soon as they meet each other on the field, their passion fueled by the rivalry grows, and they give their all.
year, so the same team doesn’t win every time. It’s very competitive, and I think that’s what makes it a rivalry. It’s not a rivalry if one team wins all the time,” Battles said.
and it’s appreciated by the kids on the Bothfield. schools and their students look forward to this game year-round, and the excitement around the game is something the surrounding communities get to experience right along with them. It’s more than a rivalry. It’s a way for two communities to come together against a competitive opponent and share a love for the game. If you happened to miss the game this year, make sure to check the one happening next season. You just might be amazed at the dedication and appreciation both teams show for the game.
Students from Reeltown and Tallassee know each other. They’ve formed friendships over the years and typically see each other on multiple occasions, on and off the field. One thing’s certain though; friendships between the students are halted for the night of the game. Nothing is more important to the players than showing off the hard work that has been happening over the past year in preparation for the game.
Even though rivalries are oftentimes frowned upon and seen as negative, these two teams have repeatedly shown that a hometown rivalry can be a driving force to further develop passion, determination and hard work.
Another beautiful aspect of the rivalry is the dedication to each hometown. When fans file into whatever stadium the teams are playing in, they’re not there simply to watch their team; they’re there to support their hometown. They cheer on not only the team but also their school system, loved ones and community. The sense of community is thick in the air,
Lake Martin Living 25
Riveting Rivalry
Tallassee's Tigers edged out the Reeltown Rebels for the King of the Tallapoosa trophy, as well as the 10-9 win-loss record for the passionate rivalry that drew national attention this year.
1-1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1 cup whole milk
2 cups hot (simmering) water
26 Lake Martin Living
Ingredients
with vanilla ice cream and chopped pecans, if desired.
Note: After 35-40 minutes, the top will be cracked, and the center will be slightly jiggly. Allow to set and cool for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the center to thicken.
Tips
n Use whole milk and real butter (not margarine).
n Once you pour the ingredients into the casserole dish, don’t stir.
Stir together granulated sugar, flour and 2 tablespoons cocoa powder. Add milk and vanilla and whisk until smooth.
Gina Abernathy
C
n The hot water that’s poured over the dish creates a thick fudge-like layer of goodness.
n Swap the pecans for walnuts, almonds or cashews, if desired.
Serve this Chocolate Pecan Cobbler with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat. This rich chocolate dessert is definitely a crowd-pleaser.
hocolate Pecan Cobbler is a simple layered dessert that is rich, buttery and chocolaty, and it melts in your mouth. Delicious!
This is a simple recipe to make and uses a layered technique that results in a perfect cobbler that is simple enough for a weeknight dessert, yet fancy enough for Chocolatecompany.
Pecan Cobbler uses all simple pantry ingredients and comes together in minutes. It’s a cross between a chocolate cake and a hot fudge sundae – a classic Southern dessert.
1-1/2 cups self-rising flour
6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, divided
ChocolateCobblerPecan
GOODEATS
Directions
1 cup granulated sugar
To serve, spoon some into a bowl, add the chocolate sauce from the bottom of the dish and top with vanilla ice cream. Instantly satisfies a sweet tooth. So what are you waiting on? Grab a spoon and dig in!
1 teaspoon vanilla
Toppings: pecans, chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream
Pour batter mixture over butter. Do not mix the butter with theCombinebatter. brown sugar and remaining cocoa powder and pecans. Sprinkle over the batter. Slowly pour hot wateroncobblerorminutes,35not stir.top. DoovercarefullytheBakeforto40untiltheissettop.Servewarm
n Water should be very hot, almost boiling.
~ Gina Abernathy is the author and recipe creator behind the blog, Home at Cedar Springs Farm.
1 cup brown sugar
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. While the oven is preheating, add butter to a 9x13 casserole dish and place it in the oven to melt for about three to four minutes. Once melted, remove the dish and set it aside.
1/2 cup butter
“The food doesn’t have to be the main course. It can be a salad or a side dish or even dessert, but it has to be cooked on site,” she said. “We also ask that all entrants prepare enough to offer samples to about 200 people.”
The event in the parking lot at the former city hall building will include inflatable bouncy houses for the kids and a cookoff competition with cash prizes, as well as blues music with Tyrone Moultry.
First up for Alexander City’s downtown events will be the inaugural BBQ, Blues and Brews from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 8 at 4 Court Square, said Main Street Alexander City Executive Director Stacey Jeffcoat.
Then, return to downtown Alexander City on Oct. 29 for the Harvest Festival at Strand Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. While plans continue to grow, some of the favorite annual activities will include Trick or Treating amongst the merchants from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dress the kids in costumes and bring them downtown to collect goodies from local businesses. They also might enjoy the face painting and inflatables.Fallvegetables will be in their prime at the Farmers Market, and there will be arts and crafts booths for early holiday shopping.Inaddition, Alexander City Theatre II will perform a Living History Tour on Main Street. E.B. Alexander, the man for whom the city was named, will tell listeners how the train changed the town, and William Benson will talk about the trade school he established in the area to provide jobs for freed slaves following the end of the War Between the States. A founder of the City of Youngsville, which later became Alexander City, will explain how the town was established. And there could be another very special visit from a popular historical figure as well, said Rodney Meadows, an ACT II board member who will direct the Living History Tour.
Festival Fun in Alexander City
no fee to enter a cook team, but all cook teams must register with Jeffcoat at the Main Street Alexander City office. Call her at 256-329-9227 for more information.
The BBQ, Blues and Brews event is a fundraiser for Main Street Alexander City. Admission to the event is $20 per person. Kids 12 and under will be admitted free. There is
“People loved the Gumbo Getdown we did earlier this year and have asked us to do more events like that one, so we’re excited about doing this one,” Jeffcoat explained.
While ACT II actors in period costume will perform monologues along the tour route, tour guides escorting guests to each station will provide details and stories from downtown Alexander City circa the 1950s.
“The tour guides will relate some interesting stories about the businesses that were located there, the economy at the time and the people who developed the area,” said Meadows.Thetour will be offered by ACT II free of charge to the community, thanks to the generosity of this season’s sponsors. The tour route will start at Strand Park and walk through downtown, making stops at the fountain on Broad Street Plaza and the former hotel site before turning down the main thoroughfare and ending at the old Anyonecourthouse.interested in having a booth at the Harvest Festival should download an application at Main Street Alexander City Facebook page or contact Jeffcoat at 256-329-9227.
STORY BY BETSY ILER
Clockwise from Top: Tyrone Moultry will sing the blues at BBQ, Blues and Brews; Enter the cookoff to win cash prizes; The beer tent will include TVs tuned to college football games.
Be There for the Blues
“There will be a beer tent, but we’ll also have water and sodas available. And we’ll have televisions that will be playing the college football games, so nobody will miss their game,” sheCookoffsaid. prize categories will include ribs, chicken, pulled pork and a tailgate favorite. Jeffcoat encouraged competitors to be creative with their entries.
Along with visiting vendors lining the streets, festival-goers will be treated to live entertainment, including the Auburn Raptors, which is a fan favorite every year when the wildlife show comes to the festival. A group of skilled staff members from the Southeastern Raptor Center at Auburn University will bring some of the center’s raptors to educate and entertain onlookers for a one-of-a-kind experience.Inaddition to the ongoing list of activities and
Fall for Dadeville
he Dadeville Fall Festival returns Oct. 15 for its ninth consecutive year and is shaping up as a surefire way for those of all ages to enjoy the cooling temperatures with family, friends and community. The event will be held in downtown Dadeville from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Hosted by the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce, volunteers already are hard at work on the success of this popular event. Chamber members are confirming food truck vendors and arts and craft vendors, as well as coming up with activities for the fun zone that will be created just for kids.
The festival will line the streets of downtown Dadeville. Come out and enjoy some of the local favorites, like MeMama’s Grub Hub, while also getting the chance to try something you’ve never had. Prepare to devour some fried catfish, Philly
28 Lake Martin Living
T
cheesesteak sandwiches and an assortment of flavored cheesecake dishes while you peruse the seemingly endless arts and crafts booths along the courthouse square. The Kona Ice truckwill be on site,“Wetoo.usually have between 18 to 20 food vendors, and we usually have 60 to 80 arts and crafts vendors,” said Molly Parker, director of the Lake Martin Dadeville area chamber.
STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY
As more details come together, chamber members will continue to release information to the public about specific vendors, kid-friendly activities and more, so keep your eye out on the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page and website for all of the forthcoming updates.
and last year, we had about the same number of people. They estimated there was somewhere around 5,500 to 6,000 people,” Parker said.“We’ve just had a flood of people over the last couple of weeks signing up. I think we’re up to about 50 vendors. We’re well on our way, and there’s some really unique stuff coming,” she added.
Good Times Await Clockwise from Facing Page Top: Inflatable bouncy structures; arts and crafts vendors; a bull riding option; pony rides; and a full schedule of music create an atmosphere of fall fun at Dadeville's annual festival.
hit a couple of years increasewasCOVID-19yearduringexperienced“Whatago.wetheofaninpeople,
Check out the festival this year to see the different vendors, let the kids play and maybe even see some raptors up close.
vendors, the 50/50 raffle will return this year. When it comes to the raffle, those who wish to participate don’t even need to be present to enter or win. In fact, according to Parker, the past two winners weren’t present when announced in
Lake Martin Living 29
“You can buy a raffle ticket ahead, or if you happen to be there in the morning to buy a raffle
MATTERSMONEY Home Sweet Line of Credit
~ Teresa Grier is vice president, market manager, at Valley Bank, Alexander City branch. She has been banking in the area for 35 years.
n Rates: Options include a fixed rate, which would hold throughout the term of the HELOC, or a variable rate that could be tied to the prime rate. Talk to a
W
banker about introductory rates that may be available, as well.
A HELOC could be set up to fit your specific needs. Here are a few ways to find the option that works best for you.
n Payments: A HELOC works much like a credit card in that you could opt for a floating rate based on the prime rate or choose to make interest-only payments. This flexibility could be ideal if your income varies, so the payments don’t put a strain on your budget.
hile everyone is seeing costs climb for products and services, local homeowners could be sitting on gold mines due to the continued rise of home values. In fact, average home values in the area have increased by more than 19 percent in the past year alone.
30 Lake Martin Living
The equity in your home could be your ace-in-the-hole. If your home’s current market value exceeds the amount you owe on the mortgage loan, you can use your home as collateral to open a home equity line of Thoughcredit.higher interest rates have made refinancing home mortgages a bit less popular, there is still a lot of interest from homeowners in HELOCs, which allow borrowing up to 80 percent of a home’s equity at a lower interest rate than personal loans or credit cards. HELOCs also don’t include the added costs of appraisals and closings. This revolving line of credit could be an ideal solution for larger expenses, such as college tuition, home renovations or even a new car loan. The equity could be used as an emergency line of credit or holiday spending. I’ve seen people plan some fabulous things, such as dream vacations or children’s weddings with the funds. The great part is the flexibility. As the loan is paid off, those funds could be used again.
n Timing: Depending on how long you need access to the funds, you could choose a 10-year draw with an option to renew, if needed.Personally, I also love to recommend a HELOC for debt consolidation. If you have two or three credit cards with high interest rates and perhaps a car loan, you could lump the debt together and have one manageable payment. Real estate is ideal collateral, and using the equity in your home to address that debt is a more manageable approach for many.
Teresa Grier
Now is a good time to have conversations with your banker about a HELOC. Whether you’re one of the many folks who were hurt by the market reset or are looking for lower-risk sources of backup funding, examining how you could best utilize your home equity is a great option.
Lake Martin Living 31
assage might have been one of mankind’s first methods of healing. In our part of the world, massage went in the parlor, so to speak, but in many places, it was still used extensively for relieving pain and healing in many forms and was considered a natural part of wellness, along with a healthy diet, exercise and rest. In the past couple of decades, massage therapy has made a tremendous comeback as an integral part of maintaining good health, as well as healing from injuries, surgery and stresses and strains in and on the body from years of poor posture, incorrect body mechanics, heavy labor and the pressures of life.
Therapy for Body, Mind and Spirit
Physiologically, massage produces a milking effect to release toxic acid accumulation from exercise or tension being held in the muscles and moves them into the lymphatic and venous flow to be excreted from the body. It improves venostasis caused by muscular inactivity; reduces edema caused by inactivity or injury; increases hemoglobin; lowers blood pressure; and assists soft tissues toward normal metabolicReflexively,balance.massage can produce a stimulus upon one tissue or organ, which in turn can be conducted to another tissue or organ to create a remote response.Psychologically, massage encourages the confidence of the client and assists the release of emotional tension.
It increases sebaceous excretions; assists perspiration and respiration of the skin, thus removing excretory products; removes dry, scaly skin following casting of dead cells; and improves internal and external nutrition through application of special lubricants. Massage could also ready athletes’ muscles for strenuous activity, aid in recovery from the aftereffects of such activity and is an excellent means to effectively facilitate rehabilitation and healing in manyWithforms.therelatively recent comeback of massage in the therapeutic realm, many new types and styles of massage have been developed. The ageold standard Swedish massage is still popular, but others also are gaining ground, including deep muscle massage, neuromuscular and trigger point therapy, fascial therapy, sports massage, craniosacral therapy, myoskeletal massage, lymphatic drainage, oncology massage, positional release, prenatal and infant massage, Trager therapy, Lomi Lomi massage, hot or warm stone massage and
Some still think of massage as a luxurious experience, but massage therapy has come a long, long way from such indulgence. Numerous specialized techniques have been developed over the years, affecting healing on many levels and enhancing wellness. In addition to these benefits, the mere touch of one human being to another is communication of loving care and is healing in and of itself.
Therapeutic massage is beneficial to most all individuals as an integral part of one’s healthcare program for the purpose of stress reduction, because, as we are now
more.Every individual is different; and therefore, his or her needs are likewise different. The best massage is an integration of several different types of therapies designed and individualized to best suit the needs of each client.
encourages lymphatic flow; provides gentle stretching of tissues, increases the range of motion of the joints and muscles; loosens subcutaneous scar tissue; prevents scarring to some degree; and relieves muscle tension, melts trigger points and unwinds the connective tissue, reducing or freeing one from pain.
M
Massage is the systematic and scientific manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, mainly to release tension and induce a state of relaxation of particular tissues, as well as the whole body, to relieve pain, increase range of motion, assist circulation, induce emotional release and cleanse the body. It actually induces a number of mechanical, physiological, reflexive, psychological and epidermal effects.Massage assists the venous flow of blood;
aware, stress is a primary contributor to the cause of disease. Stress presents itself in many forms: dietary, physical, environmental, mental and emotional. Stress causes muscular tension, and when there is tension in the muscles, there is constriction of the blood and lymph vessels. When there is constriction on these vessels, the flow of the fluids within is constricted, and it only takes a constriction of one quarter of the diameter of the vessel to constrict the flow by one half.Blood carries oxygen and other nutrients to every cell of the body. It carries hormones that tell the cells what to do. It carries antibodies from the immune system, which protects the body from disease, and it carries away normal metabolic and physiological waste products. The lymphatic system lubricates the muscles and transports antibodies of the immune system, as well as metabolic and physiological wastes out of the tissues.
Therapeutic massage also could be an excellent alternative or complementary modality to conventional medicine, such as in relieving headaches and other bodily aches and pains, relaxing muscles and relieving constipation. It is complementary to chiropractic adjustments because tight muscles could pull the adjustment out, as well as an out-of-place bone could tense a muscle. It complements orthodontic care in alignment
~ Susan Ledbetter s a licensed massage therapist (Alabama License No. 248) and is a certified neuromuscular, craniosacral and fascial therapist. She practices at Lake Martin Wellness Center.
Susan Ledbetter
So if half of the blood and lymphatic flow is constricted, half of the necessary oxygen and nutrients are not being supplied to the cells; half of the hormones and antibodies are not being delivered; and half of the wastes are still present, poisoning the cells. When a person exercises too strenuously or exercises without proper stretching, lactic acid produced as a waste product becomes trapped in the muscles. Therapeutic massage induces a milking action upon the muscles, causing these toxic wastes to drain, whether they were derived from normal metabolic or physiological activity, overexertion or pollutants in food.
MEDICALNEWS
For this reason, massage therapists often recommend drinking large quantities of water to flush these stirred toxins out of the body. Massage also stimulates the circulation of blood and lymph, providing a fresh supply of both.
Along with health-promoting proactivity in your life, give yourself an added gift of health – therapeutic massage – and relieve those aches and pains and increase your overall sense of well being.
Lake Martin Living 33
of the jaw and is complementary to geriatric care through promotion of the physiological and psychological well being of the patient.
Therapeutic massage for the release of tension is an integral part of health care, but it alone is not enough. Individuals take responsibility for their own health in preventive modes by eating nutritiously; incorporating properly executed cardiovascular, bone stress and stretching types of exercise at regular intervals; obtaining sufficient rest, relaxation and sleep; avoiding pollutants to the extent possible; taking saunas or utilizing other means to induce sweat, which helps cleanse the body; and reducing mental and emotional stress through deep breathing, appropriate emoting, positive thinking and taking time to enjoy life.
34 Lake Martin Living Friday On The Green Friday, August 26, 2022 The Town Green at Russell Crossroads 1. Kathleen Damyen, Shirley CarMichael, Ron Ownbey 2. Dell Walker 3. Jim Walker and David Miller 4. Nancy and John Hodges, Adam, Madeline and Claire Szabo 5. Tim Johnson 6. Tom and Maryalice Dickey OH SNAP! 1 2 4 3 5 6
Lake Martin Living 35 United Way Campaign Kickoff August 25, 2022 Betty Carol Graham Center 1. Dana and Kay Whatley 2. Stephanie Coley 3. Maria Ortiz and Shavone Clark 4. Ava Butler 5. Roxanna Rayfield, Kayla Hayes, Brynle Reaves and MacKenzie Gulledge 6. Drew Meacham and Mayor Curtis “Woody” Baird 7. Ethan Hamilton, Cole Johnson, Jordan Whaley, Bryce Calloway and Zak Rice 8. Sean Pennington, Angie Estrada and Carla Reese 9. Christa Schryveres, Jessica Locke and Randy Dawkins 10. Spence Wilson, Gabriel Thomas, Cooper Osborne, Walker Vossallen, Jackson Colley and Jason Weiss OH SNAP! 1 2 3 4 5 7 6 8 9 10
36 Lake Martin Living OH LaborSNAP!DayMusic Fest Saturday, September 4, 2022 The Town Green at Russell Crossroads 1. Maureen and Terry Brennan 2. Melissa and James Webb 3. James Hill 4. Janna Byrd and Amy Lewis 5. Morgan and Maren Moss and Kate Lindsey 6. Jeff and Lisa Paquin 7. Amy Hill 8. Mark and Roxanna Ward 9. Karen and Bill Slover and Tom Lewis 10. Jordan and Isaac Mickey 11. Carol Ogle, Laura Farris and Paige Cooley 1 2 5 6 8 9
Lake Martin Living 37 OH SNAP! 3 4 7 10 11
T
Left: The LMAUW parking lot is transformed into a New York styled runway for the fashion show; Right: The silent auction draws interest from fashion show attendees.
THE LAKE REGION
Seating begins at 5:30 p.m., and the fashion show will start around 6:30 p.m. with the event closing at 8:30 p.m.
LMAUW aids 27 local non-profit agencies that work to impact the community through health, education, safety and income assistance. The 2023 campaign goal is $515,000.
LMAUW Fashion Show returns
he Lake Martin Area United Way Fashion Show and Silent Auction returns to their downtown parking lot in Alexander City Oct. 20 after a two-year COVID-induced hiatus, Executive Director Courtney Layfield said.
FEATURED EVENT Calendar
“We expect to have around 30 models because we’ve expanded our requests to local stores. We are reaching out into Dadeville for participating businesses this year. We hope to have more businesses but will have fewer models from each store,” she explained.
General admission tickets are $30 and include food, drinks, admission to the silent auction and more. VIP tables can be reserved for $500 and will include extra benefits. All ticket purchases and silent auction item donations are tax deductible, Layfield said. Purchase tickets at the LMAUW office at 17 Main St. or buy them at the door on the night of the event. Tickets also are available from LMAUW committee and board members.
Fabulous Fashion
The event often drew 250 people and raised between $13,000 and $18,000 toward LMAUW’s annual campaign goals, and Layfield said she hopes this year’s expanded event will be bigger and better.
“All of the proceeds for this event go toward the 2023 ‘Because of You’ campaign,” Layfield said.
Sept. 16, 23 & 30
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 artist 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. in Dadeville.
Meet friends and family on the Town Green from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. as this free summer concert series draws to a close for 2022.
Throw Away 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. For more information, contact Kay Fincher atvkfincher@aol.com or leave a message at 256-825-2506.
Proceeds from this annual sporting event support local children’s charities and community initiatives. Teams of four shooters will take four shots from each of 18 stations. Entry fee is $200 per individual shooter. Competition begins at 2 p.m., but participants should arrive for check-in by 1:30 p.m. A cookout will follow the conclusion of the event. Tournament and team sponsorships also are available. Call Phil Blasingame at 256-307-4044 to enter.
Main Street’s BBQ, Blues and Brews
Sept. 16
Sept. 17
Explore Wind Creek State Park in a whole new way with this fun and engaging scavenger hunt. Take in the views from the silo, hike the Campfire Trail and more as you play your way through the park. Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at the front office during day-use park hours.
This inaugural downtown event from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. will include music by Tyrone Moultry, lots of barbecue to sample, inflatables for the kids and a beer tent for adults. Think you’ve got a great barbecue recipe? Enter your cook team! thesjeffcoatmainstreetac@gmail.com.EmailSeearticleonpage27.
Sept. 12-18
Lessons on the Longleaf
Oct. 8
Antique Roses Seminar
Join Wind Creek State Park interpreters for an entertaining and educational story about our majestic longleaf pines. Learn about the ecology of these amazing trees, the animals that call them home and how to help Alabama’s state tree. Meet at the Wind Creek front office at 3 p.m. This program is free with paid day-use park admission and to overnight guests.
Standard Deluxe
Oct. 8
Sept. 17
Sept. 18
Sept. 19
Friday On the Green
Kiwanis Club Sporting Clays Competition
Sept. 17
Tallapoosa County Master Gardeners will host Jason Powell of Petals of the Past from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at New Water Farms in Dadeville. Cost is $10, and registration is required. For more information, contact the Tallapoosa County Extension Office at 256-825-1050.
An invisible web of life connects all the elements of our ecosystem. Join Wind Creek State Park interpreters at the Wind Creek Clubhouse from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. to learn more about what rain, grass, birds and other wildlife have in common. This program is free with paid day-use park admission and to overnight guests.
Start your day from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. with Russell Lands Naturalist Marianne and wander the woods to identify plants and animals and see how they keep cool. Meet at the Willow Point Trailhead. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes. Insect repellant will be provided. Cost for this program is $10. Pre-registration is required. To reserve your spot, call 256-496-2710.
Lake Martin Living 39
Sept. 16
Yoga On The Green
Sept. 23-25
Entry fee is $120 per boat, and fishing begins at safe daylight for this tournament to benefit The Learning Tree. Pre-register for this event at ogstournaments.org or the morning of the event at 4 a.m. inside the marina store at Wind Creek State Park. Prize money will be awarded for every seven boats entered with a $1,500 minimum for first place. Big Fish, Big Spot and Average Joe pots also will be awarded at weigh-in at 3 p.m. with drawings for other prizes. Event sponsorships are available as well. For more information, visit Learning-tree.org.
Oct. 1
Visit downtown Eclectic from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for this annual celebration of Alabama’s cotton industry. See the article on page 16.
Tallapoosa County Commission sponsors 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, batteries, televisions, light bulbs, computers, propane tanks or hazardous or medical waste.
Raining Dogs Gallery Opening Reception
Andrew Duhon, New Orleans songwriter and teller of soulful stories, will appear in the Little House at Standard Deluxe. Showtime is 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $15. Only 50 tickets will be available.
Lake Martin Creativity Group
Natural Connections
Wind Creek Scavenger Hunt
Anglers for Autism
Oct. 4
Alabama Cotton Festival
Bring a mat and water to the Town Green at 7 a.m. for the final free yoga sessions of the summer with certified instructors.
Sept. 17 & 24
LAKE REGION EVENTS
Guided Nature Tour
Stillwaters Golf will host this event to support Ferst Readers, which provides free books to children in Tallapoosa County. Entry fee is $500 and includes boxed lunch, winner packages and on-course prizes. Play begins at 10 a.m. For details, email paggen.susan@gmail.com.
Dadeville Performing Arts Center will produce this readers theater original Southern comedy at 7 p.m. Written by Alexander City’s Patti Smith, the play tells the story of a widow and her 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.
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.
(Up to three works of art per artist accepted)
Calling all artists
Now Accepting Submissions through september 23!
Oct. 15
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 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 for more information at 256-825-4019. See the article on page 28.
Oct. 14-15 & 21-22
Oct. 31
Halloween Night Hike
The office is located at 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, across from Benjamin Russell High
Entries must reflect life and scenes in Tallapoosa County or the Lake Martin area.
2nd Annual Ferst Readers Golf Tournament
Bring the kids to a spooky, yet wholesome, Halloween night activity in Russell Forest. Meet Russell Lands Naturalist Marianne at 5:30 p.m. at the Wilson Road Trailhead for a discussion about creepy critters in the forest before setting out into the woods with flashlights for spooky tales about things lurking in the woods. Costumes are welcome. The cost for this program is $10. Call Naturalist Marianne at 256-496-2710 to register.
All entries must be framed, matted or mounted on boards and ready to hang.
PleaseSchool.call magazine editor-in-chief Betsy Iler at 256-509-6641 with questions or email editor@ lakemartinmagazine.com. Artwork will be available for pick up after the contest on October 7 at TPI.
Dadeville Fall Festival
Taking the Old Man Home Tour
Art & Photography Contest 2022
Submissions accepted in acrylics, oil, watercolor, pastels, pencil & photography.
Oct. 21
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!
Winners featured on the cover and inside pages of our October magazine edition.
Longleaf Antique Mall Playhouse Cinemas Chamber of Commerce
The Body Shop Walgreens Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. MooreJake's Wealth Management EmporiumCarlisle's Wine Cloud Nine
Chamber of Commerce Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery Root 49 Salon
HackneyvilleHACKNEYVILLEWater Authority Scooters Grill NEW DADEVILLEPigglySITEWiggly
Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy.
Winn Dixie Re/Max Around the Lake City Hall A&E RegionsMetalBank Marathon - 280 Renfroe's Market Russell Medical Center
DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE!
ALEXANDER CITY Robinson Iron Carlos
Ellaby Boutique, LLC Alabama Power
Five Star Plantation EQUALITY
LakesideNursery Mercantile Walnut Hill Chuck's Marina Deep Water Docks Lake Martin Pizza CAMP HILL Link Gas KELLYTONStation
42 Lake Martin Living 63 49 50 14 280 280 231 231 280 280 49 49 229 229 120 63 22 22 22 9 9 9 9 259 63 63 14 14 Goodwater NewHorseshoeSiteNational WindStateCreekPark Goldville Rockford SemanEquality Union Santuck Central RedKentHill Reeltown KowaligaBayTrillium Children’s Harbor Camp ASCCA Camp Alamisco Camp Kiwanis The Amp The Ridge Stillwaters Willow Point AlexanderCity DadevilleBethel Church Flint ChurchHill PleasantChurchRidge Lake BaptistMartinChurch Red Ridge United Methodist Church Union Church Refuge Church Church in The LibertyPinesChurch New Hope Church Mt.ChurchZion PleasantChurchGrove TimbergutLanding LandingJaybird Alex City Boat Ramp D.A.R.E.LandingPark PineyLandingWoods LandingSmith LandingUnion KowaligaLandingBoatFriendship Church Church of the Living Waters Eclectic Wetumpka Tallassee Walnut JacksonsHillGap 90 57 20 11 128 24 55 80 34 Russell Farms Baptist Church Lake Martin Region TALLAPOOSACOUNTY COUNTYCOOSA ELMORECOUNTY COUNTYMACON 15 14 16 To Sylacauga CountyU.S.PowerPublicLegendBoatRampsChurchesCamps&ParkslinesHighwaysRoads 1 2 3 4 9 7 6 5 12 10 13 11 28 26 24 23 17 19 20 22 18 27 25 8 Lake Pointe Baptist Church
Lake Pointe Baptist Church 8352 AL-50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293
Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 180334-857-2443Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
Dixie Sailing Club
Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's Froyo smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com256-444-8793
Churches
3. Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 19256-397-1700RussellMarine Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Aronov Realty Lake Martin 6928256-825-4133AL-49SStillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853
Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 1750256-234-2567Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010
The Stables at Russell Crossroads 288256-794-1333StablesRoad, Alex City, AL 35010
Blue Creek 7280256-825-8888MarinaHwy49S., Dadeville, AL 36853
Red Ridge United Methodist Church 8091256-825-9820CountyRd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853
Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 8610334-857-1816Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
Dock Builders
Recreation & Entertainment
50 50 81 14 280 85 22 Horseshoe Bend National Park Daviston Dadeville Notasulga Loachapoka Camp Hill Waverly If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-414-3174. Space is limited. CHAMBERSCOUNTY COUNTYLEE COUNTYMACON 1 2 10 3 11 12 13 4 5 6 7 8 9 23 24 25 26 27 28 21 22 21 20 14 15 16 17 18 19
Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 8421334-391-0717Hwy.50, Dadeville, AL 36853
Lake Martin Living 43
Real Island 2700334-857-2741MarinaRealIsland Rd., Equality, AL 36026
Creekside6993256-307-1440LodgeHwy49S., Dadeville, AL 36853
3. River North 250256-397-1500MarinaRiverNorthRd., Alex City, AL 35010
Kowaliga255334-857-2111MarinaKowaligaMarina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Catherine’s17256-215-7070MarketRussellFarms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010
Acapulco Mexican Grill 2867334-283-2725GilmerAve., Tallassee, AL 36078
Business & Shopping
Hotels & Lodges
Docks Unlimited 6400256-203-8400LLCHighway63S., Alex City, AL 35010
Dark410www.darkinsuranceagency.com256-234-5026InsuranceHillabeeStreet,AlexCity,AL 35010
8 SpringHouse256-215-708012BensonMill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
The Ridge 450256-397-1300MarinaRidgeMarina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 1969334-541-2132Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
Marinas
Russell Building 350256-825-4256SupplyFultonStreet,Dadeville, AL 36853
Harbor Pointe 397256-825-0600MarinaMarinaPointRd., Dadeville, AL 36853
Kowaliga295256-215-7035RestaurantKowaligaMarina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Off the Beaton 21300205-994-0847PathHwy.280, Dadeville, AL 36853
Restaurants & Venues
Parker Creek 486256-329-8550MarinaParkerCreekMarina Rd., Equality, AL 36026
Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation 6
OBGYN Associates of Montgomery 8
Jack Ingram Motors 2
Satterfield, Inc 5
Will Tampling, Keller Williams 44
Harbor Pointe Marina 23
DAVCO Development 45
USBank 47
AD INDEX
George Hardy, D.M.D 6
Salvation Army 44
Diamond Golf Cars 12
UAB Heart & Vascular 21
Medhealth 5
Russell Medical 48
Tallassee Health & Rehab 41
Abernathy Farm Supply 31
Heritage South Credit Union 31 Highway 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 45 Hinson Galleries 47
Offshore Marine & Outdoors 2
Central Alabama Appraisal 33
Red Flag Pest Control 6
National Village 3
Kowaliga Whole Health 45
Lake Martin Dock 15, 45
44 Lake Martin Living
Liveoak Caregivers 17
C&C Wood Products 17
Sunrise Docks 23
Jim DeBardelaben 8
Precise Pressure Washing 45
TowBoatUS 41
Vacation Rental Management 44
Alexander Landscaping 12
Gogue Performing Arts Center 31
Southern Sash 5
River Region Dermatology 45
AVSP 13
Coosa Valley MRI 45
Electronic Technology Group 45 Four Seasons 45
Prime Home Health 8
Karen Channell, State Farm 45
Lake Martin Living 45 BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY (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 COOSA VALLEY MRI CoosaExcellenceExperienceatValleyMRI COOSAVALLEYMRI.COM INSIDE COOSA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER 315 W. HICKORY 256-207-2686SYLACAUGAST. Schedule today!appointmentyour
y first experience with coffee was when I was a toddler and pulled a placemat off a kitchen table that held a steaming cup on it. Needless to say, my poor Granny, Syble Pemberton Johnston, was scarred for life, and I have a pretty big scar on my left arm that you can only see when I get really tan in the summertime. I bet Dr. Eric Tyler remembers the incident well.
Lacey Howell
I tour many very nice houses in my line of work, and I always pause and admire the “Fancy Nancy” espresso machines. I imagine myself in luxurious pajamas preparing myself a cup that would surely make me more productive and kick start better days.
Granny kept me during the day while my parents worked, and I guess when your best friend is 50-something, you start acting like a 50-something. I’m not sure I was ever really a child.
M
I then remember I am a hot mess in the morning; I don’t buy expensive pajamas, and in my caffeine-deprived early morning state, I would not be able to work such a machine.
The most exotic coffee I have experienced was Kopi Luwak coffee in Bali. Essentially, coffee cherries are eatenby the Asian Pal Civet (picture a weasel) and fermented in the digestion process; then, pooped out. It’s not glamorous and is a form of processing more so than a type of coffee. I will report that it tasted great.
~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and loves good wine. Follow her on Instagram@LaceyHowell and on her Facebook page.
week, I was trying to get out the door with my first cup of the day. Mistake No. 1 was not getting up early, and I sat the cup on the console of my Jeep. I hopped in, and my elbow slammed that baby all the way to the back seat. Talk about upset.
About 3 p.m. every day, she made a pot of afternoon coffee. That is the sinking spell time in which most of us need a little refuel. Usually, retired lady friends dropped by, and eventually my mother, and they were all sure to get a cup.
I would say, “Granny, it is time for our coff.”
As much as I write about food, I can wax poetic about coffee. I am not a coffee snob. I drink it black. I like it on cold winter mornings and sitting outside in 90-degree July heat. I’ll drink Scooters and Starbucks, but I’m equally happy with gas station quality brew from Mapco.
Not to be left out, I too, got my own cup of milk with sugar and a splash of black coffee.
I have never really understood buying the $6 latte. I just need the caffeine to hit. Myoftenimpatiencerendersaburnedmouth,asdoesthebumpyridefrommystreettostateRoute280.Justlast
CultureShock Ode to Coffee
46 Lake Martin Living
And yet, it would probably work out at my house because John would be the first one there in the morning to make my cup, and I would not be able to tear up the espresso machine.
Get financing that includes your construction loan and your mortgage – all in one. That’s one closing and one set of fees. Plus, make interest only payments during the construction of your home. Choose from fixed- or adjustable-rate construction loan options. and services. Mortgage, Home Equity and Credit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2019 U.S. Bank 257701c 10/19
From vacant lot to your future home, find help along the way.
Geoff Hall Mortgage Loan geoff.hall@usbank.com404.267.7775Officeroffice404.662.6604cellNMLS#:544471
*Standard maximum of 10 acres; however parcels not exceeding 20 acres may be considered if typical for the area and supported by acceptable appraisal valuation. Lot loans are not intended for investment or speculation purposes. Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loans amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products
Purchase a lot to build now or in the near future and get financing with no prepayment penalties.
Lot loans*
Loan options for those approved:
Construction loans
Lake Martin Living 47 usbank.com/mortgage
You’ve found the perfect lot to build your next home. We’ll help you explore financing options that may fit your needs. Enjoy competitive rates, experienced support and step-by-step guidance that may make your dream of homeownership a reality.
