The Hendrix Cottages at Sterling Gate are designed for independent senior living and are conveniently located on the Russell Medical campus. Life at the Hendrix Cottages at Sterling Gate offers amenities and oor plan choices to suit your needs. Family, friends and pets are always welcome to the Hendrix Cottages, and your security, privacy and peace of mind are assured. Call for more information!
The line between work and pleasure often disappears when I cover stories around the lake, and that happened frequently while preparing this issue of Lake magazine for the printer. From hummingbirds to incredible homes to one of my favorite places at Lake Martin and more, this is one of the best issues we’ve ever done – even if I do say that a lot!
Over many years of watching and feeding hummingbirds and talking with others who do the same, I’ve never met anyone more enthusiastic than Sam Dewey. A selfproclaimed detail man, Dewey actually counts them. That’s quite a feat for someone who hangs between 13 and 30 feeders at his lake house every season. I usually try to stay away from math, but I think the formula goes something like this: the amount of food consumed divided by the number of days the food was available divided by the weight of a single hummingbird. Considering that Sam makes up to 27 quarts of food on a given summer weekend, that’s a lot of hummers. Learn more on page 36.
Last month, my husband and I stole away to Wind Creek State Park for a few days, and as usual, we added another day to our stay when our original reservation expired. There was so much to do! Kayaking, hiking and birdwatching are our favorite pastimes there, but turn to the article on page 64 for more ways to enjoy summer’s end at Lake Martin’s wonderful state park.
I was thrilled with an invitation to feature Dr. George Hardy’s incredible Willow Point home in this issue of Lake. A jaw-dropping masterpiece of design, this home on what many considered an unbuildable lot stretches the imagination in astounding and simple ways. Architects, builder and homeowner envisioned the inside as a continuation of the sky, water and land outside, and the interior design points to the home itself as a piece of art while still reflecting the warmth and personality of the man who lives in it. Walk through this very unique and organic build, starting on page 48.
Also on your initial tour through these pages, visit with Ben Smith on page 26 as he wrestles with an era of changing music in his preview of The Black Jacket Symphony’s Labor Day concert at The Amp – Jimmy Buffet’s Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes.
And before I sign off, don’t forget that the Lake Martin Living magazine annual art and photography contest concludes this month with an exhibit and champagne reception to benefit Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Read the rules on page 44; and then, complete your entries. If you’re not an artist but love to look, love the taste of champagne or simply want to get out for the evening, purchase your tickets to the reception at eventbrite.com.
Betsy Iler, Editor-in-Chief
Staff
Chairman
KENNETH BOONE editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
General Manager
TIPPY HUNTER editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Editor in Chief
BETSY ILER editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Art Director
AUDRA SPEARS audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com
Business & Digital Development Director
ANGELA MULLINS angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com
Audience Development
BAILY TERRY baily.terry@alexcityoutlook.com
Marketing
RENEE TRICE renee.trice@alexcityoutlook.com
SAMANTHA HIMES sam.himes@alexcityoutlook.com
GENA KAY DIXON genakay.dixon@alexcityoutlook.com
CARMEN RODGERS carmen.rodgers@alexcityoutlook.com
ERIN VICKERS erin.vickers@alexcityoutlook.com
CASEY KELLY casey.kelly@alexcityoutlook.com
Contributors
KENNETH BOONE
BEN SMITH
JULIE HUDSON
GREG VINSON
CLIFF WILLIAMS
PETE MCKENNY
LIZI GWIN
ABIGAIL MURPHY
MELODY RATHEL
HENRY FOY
HARRY DENEGRE
AUDRA SPEARS
SAM HIGGS
ROB HERETH
ROB "GABBY" WITHERINGTON
All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of: Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 | lakemagazine.life
Alexander City dentist and Hollywood actor Dr. George Hardy envisioned an organic design when he bought what many considered an unbuildable lot at Lake Martin's Willow Point. When he shared the vision with his architects, builder and designer, the result was a home filled with peaceful, open spaces.
Photo by Kenneth Boone
22. SPRINGHOUSE REOPENS
After a devastating December fire forced a temporary move, SpringHouse staff reopened this iconic Lake Martin restaurant last month.
26. BJS PLAYS JIMMY BUFFET AT THE AMP
The Black Jacket Symphony will recreate Buffet's breakout album, Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes, at Lake Martin Amphitheater on Labor Day weekend.
36. HUNDREDS OF HUMMINGBIRDS
Parker Creeks' Sam Dewey feeds more than 200 busy, demanding guests at the lake cabin every weekend all summer long.
44. ART & PHOTO CONTEST
Lake's sister magazine, Lake Martin Living, will host a champagne reception and art and photogray exhibit to benefit Dadeville Performing Arts Center.
48. GEORGE HARDY'S MODERN VISION
An Alexander City dentist and Hollywood actor builds his dream home on what was considered an unbuildable Willow Point lot.
64. LATE SEASON FUN
From boating and fishing to horseback riding, hiking and more,Wind Creek State Park offers lots of options as park improvements continue.
LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES:
9. LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE TO THE LAKE
LAKE SCENES 14. CALENDAR OF EVENTS
LAKE MARTIN NEWS
NATURE OF THE LAKE
MEET A NEIGHBOR
LAKE PROPERTY
HOBO
HEALTHY LIVING
FAB FINDS
CHEF'S TABLE
BIG CATCHES
FROM THE CELLAR
THE SCRAMBLE
SHOT
Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake
Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators
The above numbers are derived from raw sales data from the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors MLS. The sales noted above are for Lake Martin waterfront residential (single-family and condominium) sales only. This information is provided courtesy of Lake Martin Realty, LLC (a Russell Lands, Inc., affiliated company).
Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest opens Sept. 3
The 2025 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest will begin accepting entries at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. The contest is a joint project between the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the Alabama Tourism Department. The deadline to enter is October 31, 2024.
The 2025 photo contest will focus on traditional photography techniques and the use of handheld cameras. No cellphone, smartphone, game camera or drone photography will be chosen as winning photos for nine of the 10 categories. Smartphone and tablet photos will be accepted in the Young Photographers category.
The photo contest is open to state residents and visitors alike, but qualifying photos must have been taken in Alabama in the past two years. Any amateur photographer not employed by ADCNR is encouraged to enter.
2025 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Categories
Alabama State Parks
Birds
awarded in each category. Winning images will be featured online and in a traveling exhibit at various venues across the state during 2025. If your organization or venue is interested in hosting the 2025 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Exhibit, please contact Kenny Johnson with ADCNR’s Communications and Marketing Section at kenny.johnson@dcnr. alabama.gov.
Bugs and Butterflies
Cold-blooded Critters
Nature-Based Recreation
Scenic
Shoots and Roots
Sweet Home Alabama
Wildlife
Young Photographers (ages 17 and under)
A total of 10 photos per person may be entered in the following categories. You may enter all 10 in one category or among several categories.
First, second, third and one honorable mention will be
The 2024 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Exhibit is currently on display at the Oak Mountain State Park Interpretive Center in Pelham, Alabama, until September 4, 2024. To view the complete exhibit schedule, visit www. outdooralabama.com/photo-exhibit.
Art teachers are encouraged to incorporate participation in the Young Photographers category into their art instruction this fall.
For complete 2025 category descriptions and contest rules, visit outdooralabama.com/photocontest.
ADCNR promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Learn more at outdooralabama.com.
Weather Outlook for August
October 2024 Forecast
Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the mid 70s with average lows in the lower 50s and not quite 3 inches of precipitation in the month of October. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be slightly higher than normal and rainfall will be normal this month.
Year-to-Date
Precipitation:
Our Normal October Precipitation: 2.86 inches
Avg. high temp.: 76.7
Avg. low temp.: 50.8
Avg. temp.: 63.7
Levels
Summer: 491 MSL
Winter: 481 MSL
Highest: 490.33
Lowest: 489.69
Lake depth is measured in reference to mean sea level. For up-to-date water levels at the lake, visit lakes.alabamapower.com.
Lake elevations are subject to change. Individuals who recreate below Martin Dam and those with boats and waterrelated equipment on the lake should always stay alert to changing conditions.
Lake Scenes n People & Places
READER SUBMISSIONS
(1) Rosie, Vivian and Crimson stand sentinel at the stern during a boat ride on the lake. (2) Colton Vanderberry plays in the sand at Kowaliga with his new Lake Martin duck friends. (3) Easton and Austin Wyatt love jumping from Chimney Rock. (4) Friends Ella Kate Griffin, Aeri Bingham and Alice Griffin enjoyed an Everything's Art presentation at the library. (5) A new family has moved into the quiet slough below Smith Mountain, and this mama has her feathers full. (6) The sun found a brief gap in the clouds and spilled light onto Lake Martin before hiding from a rainy day.
READER SUBMISSIONS
(1) Dixie Sailing Club instructors Jim Simons, Tony Berry, Dave Harle, Richard Chapman and Don Connelly welcomed 15 young sailors to youth sailing camp, including Remy Jones, Natasha White, Jacob White, Ruby Brooks, Lucas Orbann, Jack Stuedeman, Sandy, Cooper Kelly, Ella Martin, Riley Peters, Rossie Norton, Thomas Norton, Connell Norton, Channing Walker and Garrett Stuedeman. Not shown are Betty Rae Newman, Elliott Brooks and Colt Hilley. (2) Like most dogs, Maggy loves a boat ride as much or more than her people do. (3) Bovie had a great time at Lake Martin over Memorial Day weekend. (4) The setting sun paints a cross on the water in this Curry Point photo by Fay Dinken. (5) Driving the boat is serious business for Braxton House, and Pop, Scott Adkins, is loving it. (6) Brian Wilson and Angie Scott took a Strawberry Moon cruise on June 21.
Aug. 30 to Sept. 1
Alabama Open Horseman Association State Show
The biggest horse show in the Southeast will return to Garrett Coliseum and Crawford Arena on Labor Day weekend. More than 2,000 entries are expected with some 3,000 spectators. For more information, contact Keith Dean at 334-321-8796 or Jimmy Avery at 256-794-6566.
Aug. 31 to Sept. 1
Labor Day
Music Fest
The Labor Day Music Fest is back for two nights at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. The music starts at 6:30 p.m. and plays until 9:30 p.m. both nights. Friday night will feature performances from The Bank Walkers and the Sweet Tea Trio, and on Saturday night, The Funky Lampshades and Nik Parr & the Selfless Lovers will perform. Bring a cooler, blankets, camping chairs and whatever else you need to be comfortable.
Sept.
1
Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes
Black Jacket Symphony will perform Jimmy Buffet’s Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes album at the Lake Martin Amphitheater on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend. Reserved seating tickets are $49.50, and general seating tickets are $39.50. For concert time and details, visit theamponlakemartin.com.
Sept.
6
First Responders Lunch
Sept. 14
Olde-Time Music Jam
Dadeville Performing Arts members and guests will gather to play from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The public is invited to come, play and listen for free at 128 Broadnax Street.
Sept. 15
Painting in the Park
Capture Mother Nature’s beauty in your own style when you join Wind Creek State Park Naturalist Dylan Ogle for plein air painting by the lake. Meet at the historic silo landmark at 2 p.m. The $8 participation fee includes park entry. Register for this event online and present your receipt at the gate for entry. For more information, visit reserve.alapark.com/register/ painting-in-the-park.
TPI will host an art contest
Sept. 26 to benefit Dadeville Performing Arts Center
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN
The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber will host a free lunch for local first responders at the Wellness Center at 309 Mariardan Road in Dadeville, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All local first responders are welcome, including fire, EMS, law enforcement and dispatch. This event seeks to honor these men and women for their selflessness, hard work and dedication in the line of duty. RSVP by Sept.1 by contacting the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber at 256-825-4019 or chamber@dadeville.com.
Sept.
16
Lunch and Learn:
Tallapoosa History
Danny Hayes with the Tallapoosee Historical Museum in Dadeville will lead a discussion of Tallapoosa County history from noon to 1 p.m. at Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama, 5030 U.S. Route 280, Alexander City. Bring a sack lunch. VCCA will provide dessert and tea. Make reservations at 256-2340347 or email vcca.al@gmail. com by noon on Sept. 12.
Sept. 19
The Making of a Moon Garden
Advanced Master Gardener Dianna Fortner will review the process and selections in creating a moon garden in a free program open to the public at 11 a.m. at Red Ridge United Methodist Church.
Sept. 19
Cars & Cocktails
Wellborn Musclecar Museum will host this special event from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. to benefit Main Street Alexander City. Tickets are $50 per person and include hors d’oeuvres, raffle items, live music by Bo Jones and live painting with artist Sydne Schuler. There will be bourbon tasting and a cash bar. Tickets are $50 per person. Visit mainstreetalexandercity.org/events for tickets and details.
Sept. 23
Lunch and Learn: Healthy Living
Dr. Andrew Kerley of Kerley Clinic of Chiropractic will discuss the importance of a healthy spine, nutrition and vitamins and minerals to support a healthy body in this Lunch-and-Learn program hosted by Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama. Bring a sack lunch. VCCA will provide dessert and tea. The program will begin at noon at 5030 U.S. Route 280 in Alexander City. Call 256-234-0347 or email vcca.al@gmail.com by noon on Thursday, Sept. 19, to reserve a space.
Sept. 26
Lake Martin Living Art & Photo Contest
Join Lake Martin Living magazine at Dadeville Performing Arts Center for a champagne reception to showcase local artists and photographers. Proceeds benefit DPAC. Tickets to the reception are $20 and are available at TPI in Alexander City or online at eventbrite.com. Artists and photographers may enter up to three pieces of work at $25 each. Every entry includes a ticket to the reception. More than $1,000 in prizes will be awarded. There will be food, champagne, live music and door prizes. Visit lakemagazinelife/lakemartinliving for more details.
Sept. 27 to 29
Women’s Wellness Weekend
The Destination Glamping Resort presents its second annual Women’s Wellness Weekend, featuring a weekend of pampering, self-care and fun. Lodging, meals, wellness treatments and activities are included. For more information, call 615-477-9813 or visit tdbsc.com.
Sept. 30
Lunch and Learn: That’s Deductible!
Kathy Lewis and Barbara Willis with the Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama tax programs will discuss income tax deductions. Participants will receive a deductible form to use when preparing next year’s taxes. Bring a sack lunch. VCCA will provide dessert and tea. Call 256-234-0347 or email vcca.al@gmail.com by noon on Thursday, Sept. 26, to reserve a space.
Oct. 1 to Nov. 23
Art Gone Wild
The Kelly’s annual wildlife art exhibition will feature the works of artists and collectors from across the Southeast in the gallery at 301 Hill Street in Wetumpka. Best of Show wins $10,000. For more information, visit thekelly.org/wewa/art-gone-wild.
Oct. 5 to 6
Dixie
Sailing Club
Po' Ol' Kowaliga Open Regatta
This annual two-day fall regatta is open to sailors across the Southeast. Festivities include dinner and a silent auction to benefit Children’s Harbor. Visit dixiesailingclub.com.
Oct. 7
Lunch and Learn: Balcony People
Retired registered nurse Sandra Patten will present a program titled “Balcony People,” which focuses on developing a positive attititude. Event begins at noon. Bring a sack lunch. VCCA will provide dessert and tea. Call 256-234-0347 or email vcca.al@gmail.com by noon on Thursday, Oct. 3, to reserve a space.
Seasonal Events
LMYP Game Night
Every third Thursday of the month, grab your crew and meet at The Local at 41 Main in downtown Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for games, laughs and exclusive LMYP drink specials. Grand prize is $50. Visit the Lake Martin Young Professionals Facebook page for more information.
Yoga on the Green
Bring your mat, water and a towel to the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m. every Saturday through Sept. 28. Certified instructors are provided by Russell Lands for this free event.
Painting Class
Join local painter Kay Fincher for a painting class from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at The Grand Bakery on Broadnax Street in Dadeville. All materials will be provided to complete a canvas picture. No previous painting experience in necessary; however, reservations are required. The class is $30 per person and limited to 10 participants. To make reservations, call Pam at The Grand Bakery at 256-307-1332 or call Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506.
Friday On The Green
Every Friday night through Sept. 27, Russell Lands hosts free music and lawn games on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, coolers, kids and the pup on a leash to start your weekend at the lake with music, family and friends.
Dadeville Outdoor Flea Market
Find a diverse range of goods, including food, antiques, furniture, clothes, live animals, produce and more at 850 Horseshoe Bend Road, Dadeville, on the first Saturday of each month through October. Vendor spaces are available for $10. Contact Andrew at 256-675-6499.
Children’s Musical Rehearsals
Children from kindergarten through second grade will rehearse a musical theater production on Wednesdays from 3:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for a Nov. 7 performance at 6:30 p.m. Pam Hendrix will direct. Enroll at bit.ly/DPACkids.
Lake Martin Civitan Club
The Lake Martin Civitan Club meets at noon in the private room at JR’s Grill in Alexander City on the second
Thursday of each month. For more information, call Audrey Moore at 256-786-0465.
Everything’s Art Classes
From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on alternate Tuesdays, children in grades three through five will learn the elements of art as they complete projects in class with Everything’s Art teachers. Visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com/classes to enroll. No fees for Tallapoosa County children. Email Delaine Hanson at delaine.hanson@gmail.com for details.
Artists Association of Central Alabama
AACA artists meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex grounds with a general meeting followed by open studio. Club dues are $20 for the year.
Clean Community Partnerships
Pick up trash in Alexander City to win money for your favorite charity. Volunteers meet at Strand Park at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. Turn in your collected trash and get points for each person on your cleanup team and each bag of trash you collect. The team with the most points gets a $500 check made out to the nonprofit charity of their choice. Second place is $200, and third place is $200. For more information, contact Main Street Alexander City’s Michelle West at 256-786-0584 or John Thompson at 334-399-3289.
In Dadeville, a 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.
Grief Support
Red Ridge United Methodist Church hosts an on-going grief support program at 10 a.m. led by Pastor Dorothy Scott and Kay Fincher. There is no charge for participation, and the loss could be recent or long ago. For more information, call Fincher at 256-825-2506.
Lake Martin Creativity
This group meets every Monday at 1 p.m. in the downstairs community room at the StillWaters Residential Building. Anyone interested in arts and crafts is encouraged to join. Bring something to work on or come see what others are doing. A monthly fee of $5 is charged to help pay for the use of the space. For more information, contact Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506.
Library Storytimes
Storytime for children ages 5 and younger is held at the Dadeville Public Library every Tuesday at 10 a.m. Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City holds themed storytimes every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschool-aged and younger children.
Santuck Flea Market
The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month at 7300 Central Plank Road, state Route 9 in Wetumpka.
Memory Makers Quilt Guild
This group meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus. Arrive at 9:30 a.m. and sew until 2 p.m. Bring your lunch or a snack, sewing projects, machines and questions.
Amateur Radio Club
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.
Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours
Come see Naturalist Marianne and her lively nature presentations at the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature. Check the calendar at Russelllands.com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.
Fourth Fridays at EPAC
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.
Trivia Night at Niffer’s
Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts trivia night at 6:30 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.
Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store
Located on state Route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.
Tallassee Lions Club
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. For more information, call Marilyn Speake at 334-283-6864.
Lake Martin News
Annexation of Sandy Creek still possible
Many residents hope to maintain Sandy Creek's status as a single-family neighborhood
Kiwanis supports asthma camp
The Kiwanis Club of Alexander City is dedicated to serving local organizations who make a positive impact on local children.
The Kiwanis Club of Alexander City last month presented a donation to Dr. Linda Gipson-Young of Auburn University School of Nursing and Alabama Asthma Coalition for Asthma Camp Eagle, an annual week-long camp at Children’s Harbor to provide therapy and resources for children ages 7-12 with asthma.
“Two years ago, we were able to fund the lifeguards to do swimming education. Last year, we were able to buy spacers that connect the inhaler to deliver medication,” Young said.
Though there’s been no formal request at this time, residents of Lake Martin’s Sandy Creek area continue to evaluate the possibility of requesting to be annexed into the City of Dadeville to have more control over zoning and commercial construction.
Earlier this year, residents opposed a spot annexation request by Arrowhead LM, LLC, as the company planned more than 20 condos at the end of Arrowhead Lane. The city council did not spot annex the Arrowhead property.
This decision doesn’t stop Arrowhead from building the condos, as Sandy Creek is part of the county and therefore doesn’t have zoning for single- versus multi-family residences. Still, the Sandy Creek HOA viewed the situation as a wake up call.
Sandy Creek HOA president Dave Maddox said the Annexation Committee is pulling together the pros and cons of annexing and looking into the implications, such as taxes, rules and regulations. Maddox has also met with the Dadeville Planning and Zoning Commission.
The HOA has 538 member signatures on a form to keep Sandy Creek a single-family residential neighborhood. Maddox said, while he can’t say for sure, he is hopeful that a majority of the residents are in favor of annexation.
“There’s only one real primary reason [for annexation], and that’s to get zoning into the Sandy Creek area,” Maddox said.
Because Sandy Creek is a group of individual property owners, they would have to go through a legislative process to approve annexation. After the legislative process, the annexation would go through the City of Dadeville with public hearings and voting through the city council.
Unlike businesses, residential properties cannot be spot annexed into a city. If Sandy Creek formally requests annexation, it’s still just the beginning.
~ Abigail Murphy
Kiwanis club president Justin Moseley said the club’s mission is to make a positive impact on local children. With a large population of the camp being from the area, the club has provided assistance to the camp’s efforts.
“Some 80 to 90 percent of the kids at the camp are local,” Moseley said. “Furthermore, this is a prevalent chronic health condition for the children in our community, and we want to encourage awareness and support for all of those kids in our area that are affected.”
~ Melody Rathel
Alabama State Parks offers perk to state residents
Alabama residents can now make reservations for campground accommodations at Alabama State Parks a month earlier than out-of-state travelers.
Alabama residents may make online reservations 13 months in advance, a month before out-of-state residents. The new “Alabama Residents Advanced Reservation Window” allows Alabamians greater flexibility in pricing, location and date options.
Reservations can be made online through the Plan Your Adventure Online portal at alapark.com. When users access the online reservation system, they will be prompted to provide a zip code. Those with an Alabama zip code will be allowed to make reservations 13 months in advance, and users from out-of-state zip codes will continue to be allowed to make reservations 12 months in advance.
~ Staff report
In-state residents can now make reservations 13 months in advance
DSC revives charity regatta
The Po’ Ol’ Kowaliga Charity Regatta will be coming to Lake Martin on Oct. 4 through 6. Hosted by the Dixie Sailing Club and Catalina 22 Fleet 96, the event will include a regatta charity dinner and silent auction to benefit Children’s Harbor.
“We don’t make a lot of money on a regatta,” said DSC Commodore Jim Simons. “But we can make money on the donations and the silent auctions, and what money from the donations and the silent auctions will go back to Children’s Harbor.”
In addition to the dinner and auction, there will be boat races. Simons is hoping to promote the event to encourage sailing teams from across the Southeast to participate.
“One of the key things about the sailing part of the regatta is to, in fact, make sure that we’ve gotten the word out to the sailing community in the Southeast,” Simons said. “Because we’ll get travelers that will come up from Florida, in central Florida and Georgia, South Carolina, maybe Tennessee, maybe even Mississippi. But all those
guys come over here for the regatta, and they come over here for the competition.”
Although Lake Martin has hosted races frequently, it has been years since the last time a regatta was held in the area.
“Anything to support Children’s Harbor is positive here on the lake,” Simons said. “It’s a good institution that is very strongly supported by the Russells, and it has a lot of support in the Birmingham community. So it’s amazing how much support it gets, and this is our way to give back to Children’s Harbor and get some visibility out of it.”
The entry fee is $75 before Sept. 15. Anyone interested in attending, participating or donating to the event could reach out to Simons through Facebook for additional information.
~ Sam Higgs
The regatta returns in October
SpringHouse Reopens
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
AIt was all smiles Aug. 14 as Russell Lands’ ultimate dining experience returned home to SpringHouse after a late December fire relocated service to Fanny Goldmine Diner for nearly eight months, said SpringHouse Executive Chef and General Manager Pete McKenny.
“It was nice to see everyone back and to expand the menu. We had a great reopening,” McKenny said.
An afternoon fire damaged the roof at SpringHouse on Dec. 23, and the popular restaurant and special occasion venue relocated to offer classic Southern-fare dinners at Fanny Goldmine Diner, following the diner’s regular breakfast and lunch hours. With SpringHouse repairs completed ahead of schedule in early August –including the installation of new floors, walls, ceiling and cedar shake roof – the staff arranged new chairs and tables in the dining room and on the covered outdoor areas, ordered dishes, restocked the wines and upgraded equipment for the mid-month reopening.
“We tried to keep everything just as close to the original SpringHouse as possible,” McKenny said. “Everything has been freshly painted. The floor is a little darker. The chairs are more comfortable. We polished everything – except the fireplace. We wanted to keep the character that it has developed since we originally opened in 2008.”
During the construction, SpringHouse operated out of four Russell Lands kitchens, storing food and doing prep work at Catherine’s Market, Willow Point and Wicker Point, in addition to Fanny Goldmine.
“We had to redevelop the menu for our time at Fanny Goldmine, as we could only offer pan-seared or fried foods. It’s nice to be back at SpringHouse where we can cook with fire,” McKenny said. “We really want to give a shout-out to the Fanny Goldmine Diner folks who were so accommodating to us. They had a lot of extra work to do to get ready for us to come in every night, and they were great about it.”
“They were very generous,” said SpringHouse Front of House and Wine Director Stephanie Ioffredo. “Our biggest challenge there was ambiance, but they made room for us to store some of our furniture. They don’t have a bar there, so we had to create a bar every night and store it away at the end of the night. To create an elevated
After a December fire forced a temporary move, SpringHouse staff reopened the restaurant last month
atmosphere, we steamed tablecloths every day and put foam on the bottom of the chairs to dampen the sound. And we had to remove it all for Fanny Goldmine the next day.”
Through it all, SpringHouse retained a loyal staff, several of whom have worked in the restaurant for more than 10 years.
While the new SpringHouse menu offers some items that diners found during their time at Fanny Goldmine, grilled meats are now prominent among the offerings in the elegant stone and timber restaurant on the hillside above The Stables. The SpringHouse menu uses seasonal, locally grown ingredients for an evolved Southern cuisine. Prepared by an award-winning staff, the new menu
includes such treats as the grilled Peach Salad on page 76, the popular SpringHouse Vegetable Plate, Hickory Grilled Beef Tenderloin, house-made sorbets, cobblers and the delectable Flourless Chocolate Torte. The wine and liquor lists are the most extensive in the Lake Martin area.
Its rustic, elegant décor is popular among Lake Martin brides for rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions year round. An upstairs loft area overlooks the main dining room with increased privacy for social gatherings and access to an outdoor balcony with a view of The Stables. The WellHouse, connected to the main building by an underground wine cellar, offers an intimate setting for small parties.
Located at 12 Benson Mill Road, SpringHouse serves dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. Call 256-215-7080 for reservations.
Executive Chef and General Manager Pete McKenny
Front of House and Wine Director Stephanie Loffredo
Songs of the Past, Today
STORY BY BEN SMITH & PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROB HERETH
TThe best period of music is behind us.
It’s a sentiment many would agree with, one that has endured throughout the existence of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Since even before the age of Elvis, older generations shook their fists as The King gyrated from one end of the stage to the other.
The best of music is behind us, said critics and newspapers and aging populations. And when Elvis gave the stage to Jimi Hendrix and The Who and Led Zeppelin and The Notorious B.I.G., people continued shaking their fists, lamenting the crass themes, the lack of musicianship or other excuses. All the while, the new music became more popular, and years later, has been cemented in music history as some of the best, most influential sounds ever created.
Fist shakers pay a price for loving the music of the past and rejecting the music of today. They sacrifice one of the best ways to experience music –live shows. To sate auditory carvings, they settle for Grateful Dead cover bands and the occasional bar band cover of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
every vocal inflection and sound effect that can be heard on these albums is recreated live, from the divebombing airplanes in Pink Floyd’s The Wall to the murmur of a large crowd that opens The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. For those who love music by artists who are deceased, retired or no longer worth listening to, these concerts are a once-ina-lifetime opportunity.
“We are trying to bring music to people,” said Jason Rogoff, creator and producer of The Black Jacket Symphony. “We’re trying to create an atmosphere and an experience for people that is different from anything else.”
In an era when music is often streamed as single songs, artists with The Black Jacket Symphony are proud to perform entire albums – not just the well-known hits. Listening to an entire album can create a larger, more impactful picture of the artist’s intent than could a lone three- to fourminute song. It allows for a deeper experience of the music.
But there is another option, and it’s coming to Lake Martin this Labor Day weekend. On Sunday, Sept. 1, The Black Jacket Symphony will perform Jimmy Buffet’s Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes at the Lake Martin Amphitheater.
The Black Jacket Symphony is a collection of musicians who perform influential albums from the past, note for note, similar to how a modern symphony might perform the works of Mozart or Beethoven. For the last 13 years, renditions of the band have toured the U.S., playing more than 40 different classic Rock albums.
The group brands itself as ‘The Symphony of Our Generation,’ playing everything from Elton John to The Rolling Stones to Nirvana. And no sound is spared. Every note, every ambient background noise,
“It just shows the younger demographic that albums were decided upon,” said Changes in Lattitudes, Changes in Attitudes lead singer Sean Heniger. “They were sequenced. There is a whole story to an album, not just a single. And to go through that whole journey of that artist’s experience, of recording it, writing it and sequencing it, it’s really cool.”
“Artists intended an album to be heard a certain way,” said the concert’s lead guitarist Patrick Himes. “And even the artists themselves, a lot of times, didn’t get a chance to play the album live from start to finish. It’s a different experience than the audience is used to; and then, it still allows us some freedom in the second set to cut loose and have some fun.”
To create albums across such a wide range of musical expression requires these artists to constantly push their abilities. The upcoming performance of
BJS will play the iconic Jimmy Buffet album note for note
Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes will feature an array of instruments and techniques to achieve the beachy, island-themed style that permeates so much of Jimmy Buffet’s music. Himes will play an array of pedal steel guitars, producing those harmonic, sleek sounds often associated with country and Hawaiian music. He’ll also play a recorder solo. Heniger will recreate the carefree, often off-time cadence of Buffet’s vocals, and there an extensive percussion rig for those skinny, bouncy rhythms.
“For me, that’s actually one of my favorite challenges about the whole project,” said Himes. “I think, for all of us, that’s a huge part of the enjoyment of it. It pushes us as musicians to get better. It’s the kind of stuff we don’t get to do every day, so it’s a very fresh and exciting thing for us to have to push our boundaries.”
The Black Jacket Symphony is always pushing their boundaries, whether the group is recreating the space-rock sounds of Pink Floyd or the high-energy vocals of Michael Jackson. Luckily, the group doesn’t stray past the 20th century, leaving fist-shakers contented, unable to shake their fists at the sky while begging the world to change its evil, non-musical ways.
Tickets to the Sept. 1 show at The Amp are available at Ticketmaster.com. General admission tickets are $39.50, while standard admission tickets are $49.50 and include reserved seating. For more information about The Black Jacket Symphony, visit blackjacketsymphony.com.
Buffet's breakout album, Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes, was released in 1977
Concerts are complete with stage lighting, costumes and special effects
New TO THE MARKET
LOCATED IN THE GATED WATERFRONT COMMUNITY OF
✓5-bed, 5.5-bath + a total of 8 bunkbeds
✓Large pool & hot tub
✓Gas generator with automatic takeover and gas water heaters
✓Solid Mahogony front door
✓White oak hardwood flooring
✓5-point lock system on all exterior doors
✓Both the lakeside patio and the home office feature a drop-down/pivoting TV
✓Premium appliances
✓Two kitchen islands with seating
✓Butler pantry & ice maker
✓Two laundry rooms
✓Saferoom & workout room in basement FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT OUR AGENTS
Common True Katydid
Katydids use their leaf-like camouflage to avoid predators
NATURE OF THE LAKE
BY KENNETH BOONE
YYou may not have seen Common True Katydids before, but if you live in Alabama, it’s a sure bet you’ve heard them. They are responsible for one of the primary sounds of summer nights: the loud, percussive, chirp that sounds something like “kaytee” or “kay-tee-did.”
Some folks characterize the sound as a loud, repeating “kay-tee-did, kay-tee-didn’t,” which has been a natural, long-running joke about indecisive young ladies named Katy.
People often mistake their sounds for tree frogs or cicada calls. With few exceptions, Cicadas call during the day, whil;e Katydids sing at night.
When lots of True Katydids start singing, either in sync or sometimes in alternating waves like a calland-response song, the sound can be overwhelming – so loud it’s hard to be heard speaking in a normal voice. In fact, it was reported that European settlers who came to North America where afraid of the loud nighttime katydid sounds because they had never heard anything like it before.
Here in the southeast portion of the Common True Katydid range, you can sometimes hear one, two, three, four or even five pulses of sound in each call,
though two or three is common.
If you would like to hear True Katydid songs, search online for “Alabama True Katydid songs.” There are plenty of examples.
True Katydid sounds change throughout the summer, slowing down as the nights cool off until they stop altogether after the temperature drops below 52 degrees Fahrenheit. Their songs also vary geographically, so the katydid call you hear in Alabama may not be exactly like those in other states.
Common True Katydids are native throughout the eastern United States, from Texas to Minnesota and New England to Florida.
Only male True Katydids sing, which they do to attract mates. They can turn up the volume by bowing out their forewings to make a chamber that amplifies their songs, like putting a cell phone speaker down in an empty coffee cup to make the music louder.
Common True Katydids are rather large, bright green insects. Their bodies are about 2-1/2 inches long, and they have long legs and very long, thin antennae. Their bright green, veined wings look just like leaves, and they are held together to form a
Male katydids bow their forewings to amplify the loud, nighttime sounds they produce
humped tent over their bodies. Another identifying mark for the Common True Katydid is a collar between their heads and wings that has two grooves in it. Females have a long, curved ovipositor on the end of their abdomens.
Males “sing” by using a specialized stridulatory organ located in a brown cupped area where their wings come together. One wing’s “file” rubs against the other wing’s “scraper” to make the sound.
Katydids are members of the order Orthoptera, which also includes crickets and grasshoppers, and all three types of insects have a lot in common. But while you see crickets and grasshoppers on the ground all the time, katydids are much harder to spot because they live high up in trees.
This insect goes by the scientific name Pterophyla camellifolia, and also common names True Katydid, RoughWinged Katydid and Northern Katydid.
Although True Katydids have large wings, they are essentially flightless and spend their lives walking between branches and twigs in the treetops, where they feed on leaves. They are most often found in tall hardwoods, especially oak trees. And if they do use their wings, it’s more like parachutes to break their falls than a wing used for flying. If you find a True Katydid on the ground, it’s likely after a storm when they were knocked out by wind or rain.
True Katydids use their very effective camouflage – they look just like leaves – as protection against predators, primarily birds and snakes.
These insects mate during the summer. Late in the season, the female will lay eggs in crevices between plates of tree bark. The eggs overwinter, hatching in the spring, when each generation of True Katydids begins molting and growing up until the insects become mature and start making the sound of summer nights again.
Some information for this article came from songsofinsects.com, Mississippi State University Extension and the Missouri Department of Conservation
Katydids have exceptionally long, thin antennae
Katydids have a grooved collar between their heads and wings
Exclusive culinary arts and spirits
Sporting dog exhibition with Covey Flush and Goldbeck Gundogs
Animal Encounters with Alabama Wildlife Federation
Local conservation nonprofits
Archery demonstrations
Supported by
Alabama Wildlife Fine Arts Competition
Workshops by regional wildlife artists
Collectible art
Wildlife and game vendors
Children s activities
Live music
Food trucks
Dirk Walker
Hundreds of Guests at a Lake Martin Cabin
Sam Dewey feeds more than 200 ruby-throated hummingbirds on any given weekend at the lake
Hummingbirds
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
SSam and Susan Dewey host hundreds of guests at their Parker Creek cabin on Lake Martin every weekend.
“I had 208 this week. It was 175 last week,” Sam Dewey said as his guests – a tremendous charm of ruby-throated hummingbirds – whirred around 13 feeders on his back deck one Saturday morning in August.
The 79-year-old owner of a Birmingham roofing company has hung as many as 30 feeders on a decorative metal canopy frame to help some of the smallest birds in the world make a journey of 4,000 miles over open water.
“I don’t put up that many anymore. It was too much work,” said Dewey, who meticulously cleans the feeders between each filling.
He started the practice when Susan, his wife of 42 years, gave him a yellow blown-glass hummingbird feeder as a gift. Susan had grown up in Sylacauga in the 1960s and visited friends here for many years. She introduced Dewey to Lake Martin, and the two leased a dilapidated Russell cabin for $68 per month. He repaired and painted it and built a boathouse, and they kept the lease for 30 years until Russell Lands developed the Pitchford Hollow cabins as The Willows.
“I put that feeder she gave me up and had two or three birds coming to it, but I noticed these hummingbirds are bullies. One of them guarded the feeder and wouldn’t let the others feed, so I bought two more feeders and hung them up. I figured the bully couldn’t guard all the feeders at once,” Dewey said.
A self-proclaimed research nut, Dewey combed the internet and visited the library to learn as much as possible about his summer lake guests.
“Each bird eats its weight every day, so I just did the math to figure out how many birds I have based on how much food they go through,” he said. “In April, I get about 50, most of those are migratory birds heading north. In June, it’s between 50 and 100. In July, most of the birds at the feeders are males because the females are on the nest.”
In August, females and young birds dominate the feeders while males are relegated to the plethora of blooms in large pots on the deck, on a side porch and in window boxes. To keep the deer away, Dewey sprays the flowers with Deer Stopper once a week. Impatiens, begonias, canna lilies, rainbow lantana, phlox, dipladenia and other trumpet-shaped flowers bloom profusely, offering nectar as well as the protein of small insects for these captivating,
The red-throated males dominate the feeders while females are on the nest in July
winged creatures.
“The birds fatten up in September before making the flight across the Gulf of Mexico,” Dewey explained.
He cleans about two-thirds of the feeders every weekend, spraying them down with a bleach solution, rinsing them well and allowing them to dry in the sun.
“I’ve read that mold and mildew will kill the birds, so I make sure they’re very clean. And I rinse them really well to make sure there is no residual bleach on them. I don’t keep any solution in a feeder for more than two weeks. If they haven’t eaten it by then, I throw it out, wash the feeder and refill it.”
To make the filling process easier, Dewey keeps a collection of feeders in the barn on his property. When he takes a feeder down for cleaning, he fills and hangs another from the shelf in the barn.
Most of his feeders are standard pint containers with red bases and clear plastic reservoirs that hold a one-to-four ratio of refined sugar and water. But the collection in the barn also includes quart-sized feeders for later in the season when more than 300 birds visit his weigh station in a single day. Dewey also keeps a dozen or more fanciful feeders of elegant colored glass and artistically formed flower sculptures.
“These are ones that were given to me over the years. I hang them up on special occasions, for holidays and reunions,” he said.
In previous years, Dewey made his own feeders, using Tupperware containers and plastic jugs. Some of those held as much as 2-1/2 quarts of sugar solution. They often were emptied over the span of a week. Now, he purchases about four new feeders a year to replace those that have faded or warped in the hot sun.
The birds also frequent a plethora of potted plants on the porch
Females and young hummers feed heavily in August
A hummer waits its turn on a twig in a nearby willow tree
Each feeder is hung below an ant guard. This simple cup installed above the feeder and filled with water prevents ants from devouring the birds’ food.
In a cupboard in the cabin’s kitchen, Dewey stores supplies, including 9 or more pounds of sugar.
“I mix 5 quarts at a time, and sometimes I make 27 quarts in a weekend,” he said. “And you have to use sugar, not honey. You won’t get any birds with honey.”
The effort is Dewey’s focus every weekend of the summer except one. “If Alabama plays a home game in September, I don’t do anything with the feeders.”
By mid-October, the hummers are gone. Dewey takes the feeders down and examines each one for cracks or other damage. After thoroughly cleaning them, he fills the barn shelf with the feeders, where they stay until the following spring.
Dewey said he didn’t intentionally set out to attract the birds. Initially, he put up the yellow bulb feeder at a cabin the couple leased at Pitchford Hollow and added just a few more feeders there. When they bought the Parker Creek house in 2007, they retained their part time residency at Pitchford Hollow until five years ago.
“When we moved over here, it didn’t take me five minutes to hang the first hummingbird feeder on the porch,” he said. “I know they don’t need me, but I feel guilty if I’m not taking care of them. They’re just fascinating to me.”
It all started when Susan Dewey gifted her husband a blown-glass feeder
Sam Dewey makes up to 27 quarts of hummingbird food every weekend
A male prepares to pump food from the feeder through his tongue
set up multiple feeders when he realized one bird was dominating the first feeder he put out
After leaving Dewey's feeders in October, the birds will make a 4,000-mile journey across the Gulf of Mexico
Most of the feeders hang from a canopy frame on the lakeside deck
Dewey
LLake’s sister magazine, Lake Martin Living, is now accepting entries for the 2024 Art & Photo Contest to benefit the Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Winners will be announced at an exhibit and champagne reception from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 26.
Tickets to the exhibit reception are $20 each and include hors d’oeuvres, champagne, live music, door prizes, a vote for the People’s Choice winner and more.
Entries will be accepted in acrylics, oil, watercolor, pastels, pencil, crayon, photography and mixed media. All entries must be ready to hang and must reflect the nature, beauty or lifestyle of Alabama. The fee is $25 to enter each piece, and each entry includes one ticket to the exhibit reception. Artists may enter up to three entries. All entries must be clearly marked with the artist’s name, address, telephone number and email address. The deadline to enter is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 17. Each work of art must be delivered to the office of Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., at 548 Cherokee Road in Alexander City, and the fee must be paid by the deadline to be eligible for prize consideration.
More than $1,000 in prizes will be awarded. First place art and photography winners will receive $200; $150 will be awarded to second place winners in these two categories; and third place in these two categories will receive $100. The People’s Choice winner will be awarded $100.
In addition to the contest’s two traditional categories of art and photography, this year’s event will include a division for children in grades eight and younger. The winner of the children’s division will receive $50. Second and third place winners in the children’s division will receive gift certificates.
Sponsorships are available in a variety of support levels. Call Samantha Himes at 256-234-4427 for sponsorship information. For entry questions, call magazine editorial staff at 256-234-4282. Purchase tickets for the exhibit and reception at TPI’s office in Alexander City or online at eventbrite.com.
Finch Allen entered this drawing in 2023
Last year's exhibit featured 105 entries and raised $750 for the Dadeville Performing Arts Center
Mimi Anderson's colored pencil drawing won third place last year
Gattlin Browen submitted this high saturation photo in 2023
WHERE Dreams MEET Reality
For three generations, Henderson and Coker, Inc. has been building commercially and residentially on and around Lake Martin. We build custom lake homes from the raw property through finished landscaping. Our team can get you through the entire process from obtaining all of the permits and site plans to handing you the keys to the front door. We have worked with numerous engineers and architects from around the southeast. Our company self-performs a large percentage of the work, and our subcontractors, like us, are well insured and licensed. Building a custom home is a lengthy process and we are experts at getting you through it!
Henderson and Coker, Inc. is a state licensed general contractor in Alabama and Georgia.
George Hardy'sModern Vision
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
waterfall landscaping was completed even before the home was designed
The
AA few gentle waves rocked the boat on a hot July afternoon in 2017 as George Hardy worked out the offer for the Willow Point lot on the shoreline in front of him. An Alexander City native, Hardy practices dentistry in town but also has a busy acting and producing career. He played Michael Waits in 1990’s Troll 2 and has played numerous roles in 17 additional films and television productions, including Texas Cotton, Here Comes Rusty, Chosen and House of Forbidden Secrets. His family has had a presence on Lake Martin’s acreage since before the dam was built.
“This was one of the last lots available, and it was not conducive to building a traditional Lake Martin home. About three quarters of the lot was at a 45-degree angle, and it had never been developed. It was just trees,” Hardy told Lake magazine seven years after he’d made the purchase. “I sat on it for four years. I didn’t know what to do with it.”
With no house plan – or even an architect – Hardy asked Aaron Alexander to build a short wall and a small beach across part of the 214-foot waterfrontage just after the pandemic hit. Still unsure about his plans for the lot, he wondered about adding a waterfall to control the drainage on the property’s 20-foot drop. Thinking about it was halfway to doing it, so he let Alexander loose on the design.
“The waterfalls were built before the house was even designed,” Hardy said. “I told Aaron to put his heart into it. I wanted an artistic approach.”
Hardy’s daughter, Lily, connected him with Matt Hall, an associate architecture chair at Auburn University who had recently partnered with Shane Elliott to form the Superunison architectural firm.
“Matt showed up, and the first thing he did was take pictures of the treetops all around the property. I couldn’t figure out what he was doing,” Hardy said.
From their initial conversation and Hall’s first visit to the lot, the architect knew the natural setting was paramount to Hardy’s vision for his home. The themes of nature, waterfall and lake drove the home’s modern design, as well as the placement of windows.
“The windows were an early decision. Aligning them was so much about being on the inside looking out, so the window placements had to do with thinking about the myriad views George would have and where in the house he would sit or stand when he looked at the views,” Hall explained. “Each window is like a framed landscape painting. He had already constructed the waterfall, and he had this amphitheater of trees.”
Hall brought Elliott into the project, and the team used the treetop photos as a guide for where to place
The quartz waterfall island in the kitchen mirrors the flowing waterfall in the backyard
A huge sectional sofa provides ample seating in the theater room
A grand player piano accompanies intimate dinners in front of a lake view
Air and light flow through the spaces of the home
the frames that would proffer views for gazing, relaxing, meditating on nature or thrilling at a wide view of the lake or a sunset.
“He was a rare client in that what he could see from the windows inside was more important to him than what the window placements looked like from the outside,” Hall said.
The results are stunning, starting at the driveway. Left of the 3,700-square-foot house, Hall and Elliott attached a covered verandah. At 10 feet wide and 95 feet long, this patio parallels the waterfall that flows under a walking bridge and tumbles around a dining venue on the rocks on its way to the cozy lakeside beach. Conversation areas dot the verandah, and a gas corten fireplace adds ambiance.
The home’s exterior is painted Sherwin Williams’ Secret Garden, in remembrance of the Hardy family’s former Russell cabin at Wicker Point. Black trim blends with the black metal frames on the doors and windows.
Placing the home on the lot was the greatest challenge in its design and construction, as the exterior had already been developed, leaving limited space for the footprint. In addition, Hardy wanted the design to include an outdoor slot between the glass walls in the living room and garage. The intent was
to bathe the interior of the home with light.
“Conversation was couched with how tight it was to get the house on the site with enough room for the furniture arrangements George wanted. Having room between the sofa and the TV. Those kinds of things. It was a game of inches,” Hall said.
“It was definitely a very lot-specific floor plan, and getting it to fit was a little trying,” said Davis Hooper, the builder that Hardy brought in during the design phase. “We did a lot of grading and surveying to give the architects the certain size that the plan
The underlit cocktail counter and cozy seating areas add warmth to the upstairs loft
Momentos of Hardy's time at the lake and abroad adorn the tables and walls
A 95-foot covered verandah provides a stylish entertainment space
A unique clock displays date and time in the bar behind the kitchen
The corten fireplace will naturally rust with age, but it will not corrode
The outdoor slot between glass walls shares views from the garage to the living room
The master bedroom includes a vintage 1950s fireplace
A lakeside beach project evolved into extensive landscaping on the angled lot
Sculptures provide ambiance in the waterfall garden
Posters from Hardy's film projects decorate the walls of the theater room
would have to fit within.”
Hardy also added Phil Spraggins Design to the project team early in the process for consultation on tile choices, countertops, doorknobs, cabinet hardware and solar shades for the windows, as well as other details. Furniture placements, lighting design and locating artwork throughout the home created the lifestyle Hardy wanted within the home.
With the hardscape already in place, the builder created an elevated pad for the home’s placement at the lot’s entrance level. A glass garage door makes an immediate statement at the approach, and interior cabinetry mirroring that in the home’s kitchen makes it easy to turn the garage into more entertainment space. Two floor-to-ceiling windows on the slot-side garage wall offer a view into the garage from the living room, lending to the home’s open-air theme.
Inside the home, concrete floors, exposed ducts and high ceilings create a palette for the modern design Hardy envisioned. The interior gas fireplace mirrors that on the verandah in the sleek lines of corten, a steel alloy that is designed to naturally rust and develop a protective exterior layer over time. It is corrosion resistant and eventually acquires the look of weathered steel.
Spraggins suggested the gray and white quartz waterfall counter in the kitchen to keep the eye moving from the living space, through the galley island space in front of the waterfall view and into a cozy dining space. The back wall offers a panoramic view of the deck and the lake beyond. Hardy added a grand player piano to the dining space to elevate the entertainment options.
Beyond the dining area, double doors with
A wood and metal bridge leads to a flagstone waterside dining area
crackled and veined glass insets lead to the master bedroom, which continues the theme of flowing light with a large skylight. Sliding glass doors here open to a double-tier cantilevered composite deck installed by Sunrise Dock. With more than 1,500 square feet of decking, the entertainment space is practically endless.
Hooper built a suspended flight of mahogany stairs behind the kitchen to access an open loft game room. The wood for the stairs was harvested from a naturally-fallen tree in the Congo. At the top of the flight, a wall-to-wall panoramic window draws all eyes to an expansive view of Lake Martin. A narrow cocktail counter beneath the window is lined with small stools, inviting guests to share conversation in front of the spectacular lake scene.
A cozy setting of two chairs and an accent end table face the wall to the left, where long rectangular windows recall the shape of the fireplace glass. One window hugs the ceiling while a second window rises from the floor. These placements, along with precise furniture arrangement, offer a place to take in frames of the treetops Hall photographed on his first visit, as well as the winding waterfall below the entry level. Between the rectangular windows, Spraggins helped Hardy hang a similarly shaped photograph of an African savannah as a monsoon approaches. The juxtaposition of skies, moving water and place inside and out create an art experience simply in the sitting.
Beyond the game room, an open hall, railed with the rebar used inside and outside throughout the project, leads to a large theater room. A wall-sized
screen and huge white sectional sofa dominate the room. Posters from Hardy’s film projects lend an air of fun to the space.
Hardy’s home also includes two guestrooms on the entry level.
“Because when people come to visit, they don’t ever want to leave,” he said in jest.
But the words may be truer than not, Hooper said.
“With George’s vision, the architects’ vision, my vision as it was being built, that collaboration turned out to be a masterpiece. The vision of this build was bringing nature inside. It’s very unique and tailored, very organic,” Hooper said.
And while all of that may be true, for Hardy, it’s much simpler. For Hardy, it’s all that he hoped for when he sat offshore in a boat on Lake Martin seven years ago with his Realtor. It’s home.
A glass door and windows in the garage open the driveway to veiws inside and through the house
A cantilevered deck invites guests to admire the lake view
Josh Morgan has waited 18 years to finally own and operate his own practice
Dr.
Meet a Neighbor Kowaliga Vet Josh Morgan
STORY BY BEN SMITH & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE
DDon’t trust a politician who doesn’t vote. Don’t trust a bartender who doesn’t drink. And don’t trust a veterinarian who doesn’t own pets.
Luckily for patients under the care of Eclectic’s Dr. Josh Morgan, that’s not an issue. Morgan admits he’s currently low on inventory in the pet department, which is to say, he only has two dogs and three cats at his farm in Alexander City. That’s in addition to the horses. And the chickens. And the goats, cows and donkeys.
From the time he was 5 years old, Morgan told his parents – and anyone who asked him – that he wanted to be a veterinarian when he grew up. People laughed and smiled, many assuming it was one of those occupational phases a child goes through, where one week they decide they want to be a firefighter, the next a soldier or a police officer.
“But I never listened to any of that chatter,” Morgan said. “I pressed on.”
Morgan attended veterinary school at Tuskegee University and went on to work in Ashland and Birmingham. He had been away from Alexander City for more than 20 years. The entire time, he felt a desire to come home, to own and operate a practice in the place where he had first discovered a desire to care for animals.
So, four years ago, Morgan finally moved back. In 2022, he began the process of purchasing Kowaliga Veterinary Care, formerly known as Kowaliga Whole Health. As of July 1, 2024, the purchase was complete, and Morgan has finally found himself at the helm of his own practice.
He works alongside Dr. Mary Battistella, the previous owner of Kowaliga Whole Health. She is a renowned veterinarian with a particular focus on integrative therapies for pets – practices such as acupuncture, dietary supplementation and animal chiropracty. Battistella has provided the Lake Martin area with veterinary care since 1983, when she first opened a practice in Dadeville.
Morgan and Battistella hope to use their respective areas of expertise to provide a more complete, all-encompassing perspective on the health of pets in the Lake Martin community.
“I think we complement each other well, because we balance each other out,” said Morgan. “We have a good relationship where we can talk through cases, and I’m telling her the things that I’m seeing
and she’s telling me the things that she’s seeing.”
With the addition of a second veterinarian, Kowaliga Veterinary Care has expanded hours of operation and the number of patients it serves. There’s a new sign hanging out front. There have been some renovations to the office space, and this year, Kowaliga Veterinary Care will have a booth at the Eclectic Cotton Festival.
Like many veterinarians, Morgan has a deep, personal motivation for providing lifesaving care to animals. He beleivest that animals are more than just pets, and that each dog and cat is a living, breathing, furry reflection of all the love, energy and care it has received.
“It’s a lot more than just a dog or cat when there’s a widow holding it and saying it was her husband’s dog,” said Morgan. “There’s a different mindset. There’s a different aspect when you realize that and get to know these family members and know how special those pets truly are to them on an individual basis.”
That’s the mindset Morgan takes into every interaction with pet owners around the area. He cares about pets not just because he is an animal lover, but because he loves people, and pets often play an extremely meaningful part in the lives of many people.
“I love having a relationship with the pet and the client,” Morgan said. “That’s one great thing about having 18 years of experience. I’ve gotten to see family pets grow up; and then, their kids start bringing animals to me, too.”
Morgan is excited to expand the reach of his practice in the Lake Martin area, and he hopes to make a positive impact here for years to come.
“You get to see how much you can affect a family’s life through their pets,” said Morgan. “And that’s what I love. I love being able to make a positive impact on the family through their pets.”
Kowaliga Veterinary Care is located at 8610 Kowaliga Road (state Route 63) in Eclectic and sees patients from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Visit kowaligavet.com for more information.
The
and
Late Season Fun at Wind Creek State Park
STORY BY BETSY ILER
Fall is the perfect time for a horseback ride through the woods
Join a guided hike, campfire talk or birdwatching walk with the park naturalist
PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE, BETSY ILER & COURTESY OF COTTON STATE PHOTOGRAPHY
campground is open,
you can rent a boat at the marina if you don't have one
WWind Creek State Park has not folded up just because college football has kicked off. There’s still plenty of fun to be had, and cooler fall temperatures will only enhance those activities and experiences in the weeks ahead. From trail rides on horseback to ziplining through the fall colors, tournament fishing from the marina and hiking the trails in crisp, cool weather, Lake Martin’s beautiful state park is the place to be in the off season.
Horseback Rides
Rockin’ K LLC has partnered with the park to offer guided horseback trail rides for small groups of riders. Up to four people are allowed to join a ride on dedicated horse trails throughout the park. Riders must be 8 years of age or older and must weigh fewer than 230 pounds.
Guided horseback rides offer a unique way to see the beauty of nature at Lake Martin. And they help to round out a weekend at the lake after the football game has concluded. To make reservations, visit the Rockin’ K LLC Facebook page or call 334-324-3537.
Zip Line Canopy Tours
A Screaming Eagle Zip Line Canopy Tour might be the perfect way to get the kids outside and active. With 11 zip lines and six skywalks through the trees, this tour includes exhilarating views and more than enough heart-pumping challenges to create memories that will last a lifetime. Heights range from 20 to 70 feet for zipline lengths of 200 to 650 feet.
Two spectacular experience options are offered. Zipliners must be 8 years of age or older and weight a minimum of 60 pounds. Maximum weights are 250 for females and 285 for males. All participants must be present for a pre-tour safety training and equipment fitting.
Tour times are scheduled between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Friday through Monday. Visit windcreekzipline.com for more information or to book a tour.
Fishing
Fishing at Wind Creek State Park couldn’t be easier. The 210foot fishing pier is open 24/7, and live bait and tackle are sold at the marina store. This is a great way to introduce a child to fishing. Purchase a fishing license in the marina store or buy it online at alabamainteractive.org/dcnr_license before you arrive. Take in the view, pick up tips and clues from others fishing on the pier and while away a little time in this clean, safe fishing venue on Lake Martin.
If you’re ready for a bigger challenge than fishing from the dock, Wind Creek has a long list of tournaments to stretch your learning curve and maybe win some money. It only costs $5 to put a boat in the water at Wind Creek State Park Marina, in addition to the nominal park entrance fee and registration fees for tournaments.
Wind Creek State Park hosts most of the tournaments on Lake Martin, from local nonprofit fundraisers to the Alabama Bass Trail, Bassmaster collegiate competitions and beyond. Spectators are welcome to the tournament weigh-ins at the marina, as well. Beyond the day use fee to enter the park, there is no cost for spectators.
Boat Rentals
More than half of the lake’s 880 miles of shoreline are natural and undeveloped areas, and one of the best ways to experience
the fall colors and nature’s beauty is to be on the water. Wind Creek State Park makes that easy with an inventory of pet friendly pontoon, bass and flat bottom boats for rent. These boats are first come, first served and cannot be reserved. So, arrive early to start your day on the water. Visit the Wind Creek State Park website for rental requirements, rates and other details.
Hiking
As temperatures cool this fall, WCSP’s intertwined trail system sees more foot traffic. Summer’s beautiful green canopy over the trails will offer cool shade into October, protecting the carpets of ferns along the paths. The open woods are home to a plethora of wildlife, large and small. If you could use a little help sighting them, join WCSP Naturalist Dylan Ogle for a guided hike.
An early morning hike is a great start to any day. Birdsongs in the trees and filtered sunlight turn a simple walk into lighthearted adventure. Ogle keeps a steady pace, but he’s all too happy to stop occasionally, especially when he finds a native lizard that’s willing to pose for pictures. The Speckled Snake Trail is one of his favorites, as it is a moderate-difficulty hike with varying terrain and beautiful views. Join a hike on Sept. 8 at 9 a.m.
Ogle also hosts moonlight hikes. Usually scheduled on a full moon, these hikes help you explore the Alabama woods and look for nocturnal creatures. He even offers weekly birdwatching adventures. Join him Sept. 7 at 10 a.m. as he sets off to spot the feathered friends that call Wind Creek home.
Sit in on the naturalist’s Campfire Talk series during which he tells stories and shares legends that are sure to make you stay close to the campfire. On Oct. 6, he’ll discuss cryptids of North America. Pull up a lawn chair and hear about Bigfoot, Mothman, the Jersey Devil and more.
For a more challenging experience in the Wind Creek woods, try your hand at orienteering with Birmingham’s Vulcan Orienteering Club. Each spring and fall, the club hosts an event on Wind Creek’s permanent orienteering course. Armed with a map and compass, participants follow their instruments to find control stations off the
beaten paths. Look for an un upcoming orienteering event in November.
For more hiking news and events at Wind Creek State Park, visit Wind Creek State Park-Alabama on Facebook.
More to Come
When you visit Wind Creek State Park this fall, you’ll notice some construction in the North Picnic Area and at the campground, as new and improved accommodations are on the way. When the 2025 summer season opens, the park will have added five three-bedroom/three-bath waterfront cabins near the picnic area and new campsites with 50-amp service, sewers and internet connections.
The cabins will feature large porches from which to view the lake. These new cabins will offer more privacy for guests, as they are nestled among the trees off the main road.
“The plan is that these will all be available by Memorial Day,” said Park Superintendent Larrmy Warren.
The new campsites will mimic those in the park’s premier section with level concrete lakeside RV pads.
“People have been begging us for more premium sites, so we closed down 25 percent of our sites to give them more of what they want,” Warren said. “We’re not just putting in new lines. We don’t want to leave the old lines in the ground, so we’re ripping those out and grading to get nice, level lots.”
The interior lots in this renovated section will be paved with fine crush-and-run gravel.
In addition, two new bathhouses are under construction in the park’s campground C section.
But Warren said there are plenty of sites available for campers this fall, despite the construction, as Wind Creek is one of the state’s largest and most popular campgrounds.
So, take advantage of the cool mornings and campfire evenings at Wind Creek State Park this fall, and fill the days with outdoor fun at Lake Martin.
Elaine Bodine Carroll hails om Montgomery Alabama. She has been drawing and painting for over 60 years. At a young age Elaine began creating unique pieces mostly focusing on animals with a concentration on horses. In the early 70’s she began painting almost exclusively on canvas with a broad array of wildlife subjects. rough the years her passion grew for recreating memories for her clients. Today, Elaine’s ability to capture the essence of their treasured pets both living and deceased thru her paintings is what motivates Elaine. Nothing pleases her more than the look on her clients faces when they see what she has created for them.
Elaine would be honored to recreate your memories on canvas.
LLake Martin seems to be a haven in the middle of a storm. According to an article in Aug. 11, 2024’s, The Wall Street Journal (digital version “Baby Boomers had it bad, Millennials have it worse”), housing affordability is at its lowest level since September 1985. The combination of high interest rates and rising prices has raised the cost of ownership, causing a significant downturn in the sale of real estate on a national level.
According to recent data from the National Association of Realtors®, the number of annual existing home sales has fallen to 3.89 million units from the 2020 peak of 6.6 million units when interest rates were at roughly 3.25 percent compared to 6.45 percent as I write this article. Other factors are affecting this trend, such as low inventory, but clearly a drop of nearly 3 million sales annually is a troubling statistic. Stormy weather, for sure.
How bad is the storm? According to a graph in the WSJ article, 12 percent of potential Millennial
homebuyers think that now is a bad time to buy a home. In the 1980s, when my wife and I bought our first home, 15 percent of the Baby Boomers thought it was a good time to buy.
Lake Martin market remains upbeat
When I read stories on the national market like the one above, I do worry a bit about what our market is doing. We work hard to track data on a monthly basis where I work, and the recent data calms my nerves. The data on page 69 is derived from the Lake Martin Association of Realtors® MLS. We pull activity for a full 12-month period and compare it to the same 12-month period last year. For this article, I am using the 12-month period ending in July of 2024.
If the WSJ article or other national media reports have you a bit anxious, maybe the following data will calm your personal storm. The data covers waterfront residential (single-family and condo/ townhomes), water-access single family and
waterfront lots. I break residential into two categories for a total of four lake property types: singlefamily, condo/townhome, water-access homes and waterfront lots. I noted the following:
1.Sales volume is up in three of four categories year-over-year with an increase of 16.9 percent in single-family.
2.Unit sales, which were lagging in 2023 compared to 2022, are up 11.4 percent this year to 262 units for the combination of single-family and condo/townhomes.
3.
Median prices are up in every category led by 22.3 percent in water-access and 31.3 percent in waterfront lots. Median price measures the total health of the market by tracking the mid-point of prices.
4.Average prices are up in every category, such as a 4.5 percent increase in waterfront residential.
5.Upper end sales (sales prices above $1.5 million) are up. In the $1.5 million to $1,999,999 category, unit sales rose 85 percent.
Those key metrics indicate that Lake Martin is still very much in demand, in spite of the national data.
Looking ahead
A prudent seaman looks to the horizon to see if there are any storm clouds brewing. Something that I am watching carefully is available inventory. Scarce inventory in 2021 and 2022 drove double digit price gains, which was good for sellers. Low inventory reduces the opportunities for potential buyers.
Increases in inventory in single-family waterfront and condo/townhome categories provide more choices for buyers. Those increased choices favored buyers who were able to pay 96.6 percent of list price this year compared to last year’s 98.4 percent.
Two years ago, if a property was listed, it likely sold quickly. For high demand areas, like The Ridge (21 sales in the last 12-month period) properly priced homes still sell quickly. Market wide, 262 residential units sold of the 434 listed, leaving the current inventory at 162 properties (10 were pulled from the market). In 2020, the number of sales and the number of listings was a 1 to 1 ratio.
I hope you find the market data above interesting. I like the smooth tempo the market is in, especially compared to the choppy seas most of the country is experiencing. We will keep alook out and report again in December to see if we are still enjoying smooth sailing.
Steve Arnberg is Vice President of Real Estate Sales for Russell Lands.
$450,000,000
$400,000,000
$350,000,000
$300,000,000
$250,000,000
$200,000,000
$150,000,000
$100,000,000
$50,000,000
$-
Beginning September, 2013
Lake Martin Residential Waterfront Sales Volume - 12-Month Rolling
LAKE PROPERTY BY STEVE ARNBERG
Boating laws change next month
HOW TO OBTAIN BOAT OPERATORS CERTIFICATION/LICENSE
➤ Applicants must go to the Department of Public Safety Driver’s License Examining Office in their county of residence.
➤ Make application and pay appropriate fee ($5).
➤ Answer medical questions.
➤ Successfully complete written/oral exam or show proof of exemption (boating course certificate of completion or age exemption).
➤ Take the proper form to an ALEA driver license exam office to have the “V” class placed on driver’s license.
➤ Proof of Age: Every minor must furnish a certified copy of his/her birth certificate, original Social Security card, and a certified statement from the superintendent of the school the person attends containing name, date of birth and address.
TThings are always changing at Lake Martin. The Alabama Legislature has passed a couple of new laws that will take effect next month. There has been a lot of discussion on social media concerning these laws. Some of it has been correct, and some of it has been inaccurate. I thought I would take a stab at it. I am hoping I will be accurate and correct. To review the information directly from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, please visit ALEA.gov.
The first piece of legislation I wanted to discuss is best known as the proximity law. I believe it is also known as House Bill 209. This bill was passed and signed into law by our governor. It goes into effect Oct. 1, 2024.
Basically, this law states that within 200 feet of any shoreline, dock, pier, boathouse or other structure on the waters of Lake Martin, a rider behind a boat is not allowed to wakeboard or wake surf.
This bill would also prohibit the operation of a motorboat above idle speed within 100 feet from any shoreline, dock, pier, boathouse or other structure on Lake Martin.
For factual and informative purposes, you can read Alabama House Bill 209 on the Alabama legislature website.
The next piece of legislation has to do with nonresident boaters. Effective Oct. 1, 2024, nonresidents may operate a vessel upon the waters of
this state only after obtaining a valid boater safety certification or vessel operator’s certification issued in his or her home state or country, or after obtaining a Nonresident Alabama Boater Safety Certification upon examination and certification under the same terms and conditions as Alabama residents.
BY HARRY DENEGRE
For further clarification, please visit the Alabama Marine Patrol website. The last legislation I wanted to discuss is House Bill 208, which dealt with the legal size limit of boats operated on Lake Martin. This bill did not pass The Alabama State Legislature and was not signed into law. The bill sought to increase the legal size of boats allowed to operate on Lake Martin from 30 feet, 6 inches to 40 feet. The Legislature decided to table this legislation at this time. Lake Martin has current signed legislation that allows for a legal length of 30 feet, 6 inches. The legal speed limit for boats on Lake Martin is 65 miles per hour. There seems to be a lot of confusion about this bill’s status. It did not pass but may come up again in the Legislature.
ALEA will be publishing this information and warning citizens for an initial period of time before enforcing these new laws with penalties. HOBOs requests that you visit the ALEA website for any clarifications or information you require pertaining to these matters. We will hold a drive to join the Lake Martin HOBOs. Individuals can join the organization for $15. Annual membership for families is $25. We would love to have you join our organization.
Harry DeNegre is president of Lake Martin HOBOs. Visit lakemartinhobos. com to learn more about HOBOs.
SUMMERTIME IS A SPECIAL TIME, IS YOUR HEART HEALTHY?
Summertime means time on the water, time away from work, and more time with family and friends.
Make sure your heart is healthy and ready for the season with an appointment at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Russell Medical.
Kevin 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:
• Advanced ultrasound testing
• Nuclear medicine imaging in fully accredited labs
• Management of cardiac rhythm disorders
• Interventional cardiology care
Our expanded clinical team is ready to serve you. Schedule a visit today by calling 256-234-2644.
HOBO
Come to the table
SSeptember is National Family Meals Month, an initiative by the Food Marketing Institute Foundation to promote the benefits of family meals. A family meal can look different from house to house. Some families may include parents and children sitting together at a table, while others may enjoy a meal together at the ball park or in the car. Roommates and friends may come together for fellowship and share a meal in front of the television. Whichever way you eat your meals, doing so in a communal, family setting is beneficial to many apsects of your life.
Studies have shown that families with children or adolescents who eat together at least a few times per week have a more positive mealtime environment, positive attitude toward family and more family time in general. Other benefits include protection from obesity, poor diets, risky behavior, poor mental health and poor academic outcomes.
September is back-to-school season or, for empty nesters, the end of summer, both of which come with challenges to returning to a routine. Coming up with a weeknight meal plan could help to decrease grocery bills, reduce food waste and save time during the busy weekdays.
HEALTHY LIVING
BY JULIE HUDSON
According to research distributed by the Food Marketing Institute, family meals nourish one’s spirit and brain. For children, regular family meals are linked to higher grades, greater selfesteem and delayed sexual activity. Children who experience family meals have demonstrated more prosocial behaviors as they move into adulthood, such as sharing and showing fairness and respect. Family meals decrease the likelihood of adolescent attitudes and behaviors, including symptoms of violence, depression and suicide; use or abuse of drugs; running away; and engagement in risky behavior or delinquent acts.
Go into the week with a plan. Check your calendar to see how many meals you need; then, write down the menu and ingredients needed. If planning the entire week is overwhelming, try to plan just a few days at a time. Stocking the pantry is crucial. Divide the list into daily or weekly items, monthly or quarterly items and as-needed groceries. Learn to maximize freezer space by preparing more of a recipe than is needed for one meal. Sauces, soups and chilis freeze beautifully.
Daily or weekly shopping lists may include fresh, in-season fruit and vegetables; salad ingredients; fresh, lean meat; and poultry, milk and cheese, as well as yogurt, eggs, breads, fermented foods and onions and garlic. Monthly or quarterly shopping lists include frozen or canned vegetables, canned or dried beans, peas and tomato sauce. Grains such as rice, oats, quinoa, orzo, nuts and seeds might also be on this list with canned and pouched tuna and salmon. Include broths and frozen, dried or canned fruits with no added sugar. As-needed groceries could include nutritious oils, such as olive, avocado or sesame, along with any type of vinegars, dried herbs and spices, whole grain nuts and flours and cooking oil spray.
The following are meal ideas that may help get you started.
Chicken Nuggets
Cut up boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-size pieces. Sprinkle with garlic salt and dot with butter or olive oil. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until cooked through, about 10 minutes. This recipe can be
cooked in a toaster oven or air fryer for a quicker finish time.
Dinner Grazing Board
This is a great idea if you are in a rut. This grazing board can bring smiles to the whole family. Start with sliced cheese, French bread, hummus, whole grain seeded crackers, grape clusters, broccoli florets and carrots with dip, sliced turkey, chicken or ham. Garnish with nuts, pickles and olives. Don’t forget the condiments: mustard, mayonnaise, yum yum sauce, pepper jellies or pesto. Use the leftovers to make a chopped salad for lunch the next day.
Meatball Cupcakes
Make a turkey, chicken or lean ground beef meatloaf mixture. Roll meat into a ball and press into an oilsprayed cupcake pan. Top with spaghetti sauce or ketchup. Bake until firm and cooked through.
Tacos
Brown turkey, chicken or lean ground beef with homemade taco seasoning made with simple ingredients, like chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper and cumin. Set out tortilla shells and corn chips, plus additions like cheese, corn, black beans, onions, jalapenos, red and yellow peppers, avocado, lettuce and tomato. Serve with your favorite red salsa, green salsa verde, sour cream or queso cheese sauce.
Fish Fingers
Cut salmon or white fish into strips or chunks. Dip into egg; then, dredge into seasoned grain flour, almond flour or panko crumbs. Bake until the fish is cooked through. Serve with sauces, such as bang bang sauce, ketchup, yum yum or sweet chili sauce.
One-Pan Chicken
Parmesan
Coat pounded or flat chicken breasts with mayonnaise; then, dredge in flour or breadcrumbs mixed Parmesan cheese and Italian seasonings. Sauté in a skillet until browned; then, transfer to an ovenproof baking dish and top with spaghetti sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake at 400 degrees until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through.
Easy Lasagna
Add extra sauce and use lean ground beef (which does not require draining). Start by lining the baking dish with sauce. Layer lasagna noodles that do not require boiling and top with raw meat, any vegetables or ricotta cheese, sauce and cheese. Repeat the layering process, ending with cheese. Bake
until bubbly and meat is completely cooked.
Breakfast for Dinner
Homemade pancakes or waffles, eggs, grits or any type of quiche are economical options for weeknight meals.
To make group or family meals successful, try sticking to one recipe book or social media interest. Start slow with planning, so you don’t get burned out. Utilize theme nights, such as Taco Tuesday or Friday pizza night. Plan around those nights and the ingredients you have in the pantry. The most important consideration is to start one meal, one favorite recipe or one ingredient at a time. Then, you can build on that idea.
Setting a nice table or planning family mealtime does not have to be reserved for the holidays. Create a space that promotes relaxing stress-free conversation and offers unplugged and uninterrupted time. Sharing food with others supports people of all ages. It will make older adults feel connected and less lonely. It can build relationships among school-aged children, and it promotes close relationships between parents and their kids.
Julie Hudson is a certified dietician at Lake Martin Wellness Center in Dadeville.
SUBMISSION DETAILS
Calling All Artist We’re Having An Exhibit-And-Reception Event & You’re invited!
n Submissions accepted in acrylic, oil, watercolor, pastels, pencil, photography and mixed media. (3D works are accepted as long as they can be hung on the wall. )
n No free-standing sculptures.
n Entries must reflect the nature, beauty or lifestyle of Alabama.
n All entries must be ready to hang.
n Entry fee is $25 per piece.
Clearly mark each entry with the artist’s name, address, phone number and email. Deliver entries to the Lake Martin Living magazine office on or before 5 p.m. September 17. The office is located at 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City.
First place winners receive $200; Second place winners receive $150; and third place winners receive $100. People’s Choice winner also receives $100. A children’s division is open to eighth grade and younger. Children’s division winner receives $50.
All submitting artists will be featured in the October issue of Lake Martin Living, with one of the first place works featured on the cover. Call magazine editor-in-chief Betsy Iler at 256-234-4282 with questions or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.
The reception will be on September 26 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center. Look for more details in the August issue of Lake magazine and in TPI newspapers, websites and on social media.
Peach Salad
Citrus Glaze Ingredients
Zest of 3 lemons, juiced separately
Zest of 3 oranges, juiced separately
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup cornstarch and water (to make a slurry)
Citrus Glaze Directions
Place all ingredients into a pot and reduce on medium heat until one quarter has cooked. Slowly pour the slurry in. Add a little at a time, stirring, until it starts to thicken. You will not need all of the slurry. Chill before using.
Cambazola Blue Cheese Cream Ingredients
1 pound cambazola blue cheese (a creamy blue)
2 to 3 cups heavy cream
Cambazola Blue Cheese Cream Directions
Remove the rind from the cambazola and place cheese into a food processor. Add half of the cream and blend quickly. Do not let this run too long. Quick pulses will incorporate it. Scrape the sides down and add the rest of the cream until just mixed. Remove and fold in any cream that didn’t mix.
Grilled Peaches Ingredients
3 to 6 peaches, cut in half, seeds removed
1/2 cup white sugar
Pinch of salt
Grilled Peaches Directions
Toss the peaches in the sugar and salt. Once your grill, or sauce pan, is hot, place peaches cut side down. Watch these carefully, as the sugar will burn quickly. Once caramelized, remove and cool completely.
Granola Ingredients
1 cup almonds, pecans or walnuts
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup honey
Granola Directions
Mix all granola ingredients together and bake at 250 degrees for five minutes. Remove granola and stir. Place back into the oven for another five minutes. Stir granola around to make sure edges are not burning. Place back into oven for another five minutes. Let cool completely before using.
Assembly
Chop some arugula and toss with some of the citrus glaze. Spread the cheese on a plate and place the arugula on top of the cheese. Place the peaches on the salad and garnish with the granola and extra citrus glaze.
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.
CHEF'S TABLE
BY PETE MCKENNY
High Definition Mapping
What to use before the forward facing sonar
WW
hen it comes to fishing electronics, forward facing sonar gets most of the attention. It’s the latest technology, and it has certainly changed the game. The conversation is dominated so much by discussion about forward facing sonar that someone new to the sport might think everything else is irrelevant. But
Mapping allows for a real time picture of the water at varying depths
that couldn’t be further from the truth. Traditional sonar still plays a very important role in locating bass, as do side imaging and down imaging. The real sleeper technology that many overlook is mapping.
Navionics was one of the first mapping systems that allowed interactive mapping on fish finders. Before that, anglers were limited to paper maps for reference, but it was almost impossible to find that high percentage spot just by looking at a paper map. GPS technology, coupled with integrated lake maps, opened up the possibility to pull up to a hump, point, etc., and be relatively close to the target depth; then, an angler could employ the other sonar technologies to begin looking for cover and fish. That process is still true today, but mapping has improved lightyears over the 5-foot and 10-foot contour lines we referenced on paper maps in the past.
Early lake mapping data was pulled from various sources, including topo maps created when the lake bed was surveyed prior to filling. Undoubtedly, many subtle changes in the future lake bottom got overlooked. In my early years of fishing using the available mapping technologies, it wasn’t uncommon to run to a hump on the map only to find that it was much shallower than displayed, making for some dangerous conditions for the engine propeller. Or it was much deeper than displayed, so much so that it wasn’t relevant for the
pattern at the time.
In the past decade, electronics companies realized that high definition lake mapping was an area they could target to get ahead of the competition. Humminbird was one of the first to invest a significant amount of time and resources into creating maps for the many lakes and rivers around the country. They called their maps Lakemaster. Technicians spent weeks at each place, using advanced transducers to scan the lake beds.
The results were ground breaking for anglers who used the new highly accurate mapping programs. Soon, professional and local anglers with these mapping programs were finding subtle structure changes that produced bigtime results. It didn’t take long for other companies, like Garmin and C-Map, to make similar investments. Each tried to get more data about the lake bed than the others. It took a massive effort and is ongoing still today.
sible to make key places stand out on the map. Four or five color ranges are usually plenty, but I’ve had as many as 10 set up when slight changes in depth seemed significant.
Based on past years’ patterns, an experienced Lake Martin angler may already have a feel for the depth range that fish are using at any given time. But someone with less experience could identify that range pretty quickly by idling around a few different places before fishing.
BIG CATCHES
BY GREG VINSON
New high definition mapping programs show depth changes in the lake to 1-foot contour changes. The display includes a topographic line at each 1-foot interval. Rather than idling for hours to find the true layout of a deep hump or point, an angler now can pull up to a specific part of that structure that’s likely a high percentage location.
At any given time, fish often prefer particular depths. Once anglers establish that preferred depth, they can approach that zone on the new structure quickly. Just by referencing their lake mapping programs – Garmin Lake Vu, in my case – they can see the last 20 feet of water on a long point. If that’s the zone where fish have been on other structure in the vicinity, they’ll likely be close to this zone on another spot. Then, and only then, do the other sonar technologies come into play.
The better the mapping is, the better the angler can decipher where the fish are most likely positioned, making the process of locating fish much more efficient. Case in point, I’ve fished around Lake Martin most of my life and know a lot of good spots that hold fish at any time. But since Garmin mapped the lake in recent years, I’ve discovered many more places that produce fish, simply by seeing a particular structure element and riding over to see if it had fish on it. Bass are my usual target, of course, but good mapping has helped me find schools of crappie, stripers and even catfish once I could identify the type places they preferred at the time.
One of my favorite features with the Garmin Lake Vu program is depth shading. By assigning different color palettes to preferred depth ranges, it’s pos-
The zone where bait and fish alike regularly appear on sonar is going to be consistent in a given section of the lake. If I’m noticing that fish are regularly in the 20 to 25-foot zone, I’ll set one of my depth shading color palettes up for that range. That’s where I’ll focus most of the scanning.
In addition, I like to have a range set up for the shallower water, so I can avoid it when running, as well as setting up a range for deeper water that might be associated with creeks or river channels. In this case, I’d probably set up a palette for the 0- to 5-foot zone, a 10- to 20-foot zone for midrange and a 25- to 50-foot zone to reveal deep edges of a channel. Anything beyond that depth would remain a white color on the map, showing the deepest water in the lake.
With this depth shading combination, any hump that topped out in the 20- to 25-foot depth range (my supposed target range) would reveal itself on the map quickly with its own color palette. That would allow me to look at the shape of the structure before running there. If the contour lines and color palettes are farther apart, that section of the place would be flatter. Lines and color palettes closer together would reveal a steeper drop, which often would include a high percentage part of the structure. Remember, each line on the map represents a change in depth. The more the lines are condensed on the map, the steeper the drop.
When fishing a different section of the lake at a different season of the year, or a totally new fishery, the depth ranges can be customized quickly as target depths or series of depths reveal themselves.
Although forward facing sonar is all the rage right now, remember that it only comes into play after a good area has been located using high definition mapping along with other sonar features.
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.
The Economy of Wine
FFinally, there is good news for the economy. The likelihood that we will survive the fiscal turbulence of the last few years with a so-called soft landing is improving. How that relates to wine is the subject of this two-part look at what’s going on and how we deal with it. In part one, we’ll focus on white wine. With plenty of summer left, a light, acidic white wine with a nice chill on it is the way to go, especially on the beach, the patio or the boat. White wines are notoriously affordable and are attractive buys when the price of everything else seems to be out of control.
At the peak of the COVID pandemic, we longed for the day when things would return to normal. Clearly, the new normal is not how we remembered it. Since the days of COVID, the economy has expanded, leaving economists baffled. Rising inflation, fueled by billions of dollars in stimulus money, high interest rates and higher prices led to more spending and mounting debt. That was last week’s headline, and the threat of recession is old news.
BY HENRY FOY
The pressure on consumers from rising rental rates, the cost of a hamburger and depleted savings began affecting big business as well. Amazon, McDonald’s, Taco Bell and, most recently, The Home Depot got caught in the pinch. Price-sensitive and weary shoppers are saying “enough” and rather than not spending at all, are spending more carefully, trading down and looking for deals.
If discretionary spending had a poster child, it would be wine. Wine drinkers are generally knowledgeable of prices and how much they are willing to spend. If you recall, one of the tenets of this column has always been that good wine does not have to be expensive. For every cheap wine that doesn’t even deserve a label, there is an overpriced wine that is only slightly better, perhaps with a prettier label. Granted, the more complex wines provide a level of expertise, finesse and character that are absolutely amazing, but they do generally cost more. I talk about this often; there are many factors, beyond price, that make a wine superb in any given setting.
With just a little guidance and experimentation, you should be able to determine the styles, the varieties, the flavors and characteristics of the wines you enjoy the most. Be forewarned, there are a lot of them, and you will not like them all. But be patient and enjoy the hunt.
For the most part, over this period of rapidly rising prices, it seems that the wine industry has been able to maintain a pricing structure that did not feel like robbery. There have been a few cases in which price increases have been concerning, and fewer in which
stores have discontinued a product that failed to meet expectations of quality in relation to a price increase. White wines are typically less expensive and contains less alcohol than better quality reds; high acidity and low alcohol make the wine more refreshing on the palate. The wines assembled for the photo (left) are a small sample of the many white wines available for under $25. Lobster Reef is a new Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough that restrains the grassy and sharp grapefruit flavors that many find off-putting in New Zealand Sauv Blancs. Instead, you might detect flavors of guava, pineapple or mango (priced at $17.99). The French Picpoul de Pinet (center) is a long-time favorite for its refreshing drinkability and elegant nose with a zesty acidity. At $14.99, it is easily affordable. Rich in tropical and fruit flavors of pear, peach and apricot, Lago Vinho Verde is the epitome of quality and value with a slight effervescence. It is very drinkable with a subtle sweetness that can be quite refreshing in the heat. With only 10 percent alcohol and 80 calories, it is difficult to beat at $10.99.
Realistically, finding good quality wines for less than $10 is uncommon, though not impossible. Generally, when paying a little more, expect the quality to be better. There are plenty of quality wines in the $12 to $25 range that are often overlooked. For a lot of white wines, that range is the sweet spot. Big Chardonnays, Burgundies and Sancerres will kick the price into the whatever-you’re-willing-topay range. How much may not be as much as it used to be.
The state of the economy has given us permission to seek out those really good wines that don’t stretch the budget. What is happening is not so much that buyers can’t afford higher prices, but that many consumers just don’t want to pay higher prices.
The “expensive” wines that we were accustomed to will still be there next year and in years to come. With the additional aging, they will have matured gracefully. That in itself is a bonus, because most of us drink even our best wines before their time.
In part two, we will explore affordable reds. Or maybe we’ll look for some bargains among those pricey wines that need to be aged. Cheers!
Henry Foy is the owner of Emporium Wine, Sprits and Cigars, now celebrating 20 years of business in downtown Alexander City at 128 Calhoun Street. Call 256-212-9463.
FROM THE CELLAR
H Work your swing
Hello Lake Martin!
The kids are back in school; football season has begun; and we have one final blast of fun with the Labor Day weekend. Please enjoy a safe holiday filled with activities both on and around our beautiful Lake Martin.
Labor Day is an annual celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers. The holiday was established in 1894 when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize the many contributions workers have made to America’s strength, prosperity and wellbeing. The majority of you readers have been or currently are a part of this national success. Take a moment to give thanks, celebrate your efforts and prepare to focus on future success.
THE SCRAMBLE
BY ROB WITHERINGTON
As we recognize the efforts of workers, I want to draw focus to others whose efforts need to be celebrated on this holiday weekend. I am talking about the wonderful individuals who give a portion of their time and energy as active volunteers. So many of these beautiful people make the time to offer assistance through their churches or public programs. I believe we should find some way to positively impact lives through volunteerism. I plan on doing this more upon retiring from the golf business, and I appreciate all that have chosen this path currently. Thank you, volunteers.
I volunteer my professional experience to groups when I can find the time. Next year, I plan on returning to my 100-hole golf marathon, which raises money for the Lake Martin Area United Way. Before I returned to Stillwaters Golf, I conducted a seminar and teaching program with the LEO Golf and Christian Academy in Montgomery. In the past, I worked with Coach Bearden and Phillip Baker to establish, teach and host the golf programs at Dadeville High School, which are still going on today. In years past, I was very active as a board member with the Boys and
Girls Club. I currently serve as a Kiwanis Club member and actively participate and promote events that raise money for scholarships. If you want to give back to your community, you just need to find a good use of your spare time and jump right in. You will enjoy a great reward in giving.
I know that football season can be a pleasant distraction from work and golf. I want to challenge my golfing readership to continue to set goals, work on their games and play golf. The weather will begin to cool off, and that will make for more comfortable golf experiences this fall. We will continue to host golf events in September and October, so make your plans to participate in these fun events.
Maybe turn your personal focus to game improvement strategies before the year ends. There are so many ways to seek improvement in your golf game. Equipment upgrades, professional instruction and seeking other changes could help to overcome the challenges of aging golfers. Seek out the help of your local PGA professional to develop a personal plan for improvement.
As we celebrate the American worker, I challenge you to continue good “work” on your own golf game. Make some time for golf this fall; play in events; and seek personal improvement.
The great Sam Snead said, “If you are smart, you learn something from every round you play.”
Patty Berg advised, “Always keep learning, it keeps you young.”
Happy holiday and let me know if I can help you.
Rob “Gabby” Witherington is a PGA Professional and Director of Golf at Stillwaters Golf Club. Learn more at stillwatersgolf.com.
Lake Martin
Kowaliga Marina 334-397-1210
The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300
River North Marina 256-397-1500
Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700
Real Island Marina 256-397-1200
Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888
Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550
Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600
Alex City Marine 256-215-FISH
Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793
SpringHouse 256-215-7080
Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070
Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035
Lake Martin Pizza 256-373-3337
The Burritos Corner Mexican Grill 256-307-1887
Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075
Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567
Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132
Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256
The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333
Kowaliga Veterinary Care 334-857-1816
Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847
Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717
Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293
Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820
Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc 334-857-2443
First Baptist Church Dadeville 256-825-6232
Lakeshore Pharmacy 256-825-0063
Momentum Marine at Lake Martin 256-825-9286
Bolton Cove 256-392-7524
Lake Magazine Distribution
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Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark
The Sure Shot
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Center
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At the Beauty Shop
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City Hall
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Lake Martin Realty
Shell
EQUALITY
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ECLECTIC
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Wetumpka Herald Office
TALLASSEE
Marathon
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Get Lake magazine delivered to your mailbox for just $50 per year. To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.
Parting Shot
“If
there are no dogs in heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.”
~ Will Rogers
Photo by Kenneth Boone
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.
