Lake Martin Living November 2020

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

Jeff Lynn CACC's interim president to bring community back to campus

UTV Road Trip Appalachian Adventure

November 2020

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

2 Lake Martin Living

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Lake Martin Living 3

From the Editor’s Desk

O

ne thing of which I am certain is that ours is a strong community; one that shops together, tells tales together and works together for the betterment of what is larger than our individual selves. I know that is true because I live and breathe and have the privilege of working among people who make community happen here.

It is wholly evident on particular Thursday evenings when “Dadevillians” gather at Zazu’s Verandah for the ongoing Tales of Dadeville speaker series. Last month, Tallapoossee Historical Society President Danny Hayes made a presentation about an antebellum home known locally as The Mitchell House, a subject on which I previously have written in these pages (May 2017). I called Hayes after his presentation to learn more, and he referred me to someone who grew up in the home. Of course, that opened a great wealth of knowledge, and the story grew beyond its original form into something even more interesting, only a fraction of which you’ll find in the story on page 10.

Lacey Howell shares a sense of community on page 46 as she helps the men who struggle with what to give the ladies in their lives for Christmas. You’ll read of it in Dave Jennings column on page 16 as he offers tips for winter play to the community of golfers. And you’ll find lots of community activities in which to take part in the calendar of events on page 37, including the Holiday Open House in Alexander City on Nov. 15.

But perhaps nowhere else in this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine will you recognize passion for community than in the article on page 24, where Central Alabama Community College Interim President Jeff Lynn speaks of his strategic plan to invite the community back to the campus. A product of Southern Union Community College, Lynn wants to foster a sense of community partnership between CACC campuses and the people who live near them. He wants to know what students want from their community college campus experience and how the community would like to participate in activities, events and learning opportunities at our local college campus.

Combine that sense of community with a little adventure and you’ve really got something. This month, we invite you to come along on a UTV tour at Sylacauga’s Pursell Farms in the Road Trip article on page 30. If that’s not quite daring enough, turn to page 14, where Ryne Gallacher shares with you the dream-come-true adventure of DeForest Tuggle, who recently completed the Appalachian Trail with Irving Blanco.

Join me as we explore adventure and community life in this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine.

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor

4 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Contributors Kenneth Boone Dave Jennings Cliff Williams Lacey Howell Amy Passaretti Santana Wood Kevin Speaks Shane Harris Siri Hedreen Jacob Holmes Ryne Gallacher Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Rachel McCollough Marilyn Hawkins Julie Harbin Andy Carr Liz Holland Digital Services Elle Fuller Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com

Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

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IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 14. FROM THE TEE 16. GARDEN TALK 27. MONEY MATTERS 33. OH SNAP! 36. LAKE REGION EVENTS 46. CULTURE SHOCK

FEATURES 10. TALES OF DADEVILLE History unfolds at The Mitchell House, as Danny Hayes relates the stories of former residents at Dadeville's Gingko Manor 14. APPALACHIAN ADVENTURE Alexander City couple completes the north-south trail to fulfill a dream 22. COMMUNITY GOES BACK TO SCHOOL CACC's interim president outlines a plan to return community participation to the local college 28. ROAD TRIP Pursell Farms' UTV tour adds history and fun to a fall season retreat

14

Irving Blanco and DeForest Tuggle celebrate the accomplishment of a lifetime as they hike the full length of the Appalachian Trail.

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Wickles go to Washington

Trey Sims thought someone had played a joke on him when received an invitation to showcase Wickles Pickles at the White House last month.

“It was just a random email if we would be interested in participating in the ‘Made in America’ Showcase,” said Sims, co-owner and president of Wickles Pickles.

Each year, the White House invites one business from each state to showcase its 100 percent American-made product to the President, Vice President and Congress. This year, they chose Dadeville-based Wickles Pickles.

Sims was told to prepare a 20- to 30- second pitch in case President Donald Trump came around to his booth.

“It was a real honor,” Sims said.

That was until the pandemic interfered.

“It was kind of funny,” Sims said of the poor timing. “The morning that we were supposed to be leaving for D.C. the president got coronavirus.”

The news came in another email, which Sims received as soon as he, his brother and their families landed in Washington D.C. The Made in America Showcase had been canceled.

That being said, the trip was not wasted – instead, they took the opportunity to sight-see.

Meanwhile the recognition still stands.

“The president extends his sincere appreciation to the companies that planned to attend this year’s event at the White House (on Oct. 5),” the White House said in a statement. “He is incredibly proud of their grit, ingenuity, and use of American labor to manufacture exceptional products on the homeland.”

Gov. Kay Ivey tweeted her appreciation, as well.

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Relish the Recognition

Wickles Pickles was invited to take part in the Made in America Showcase at the White House this year.

Health officials outline vaccine plan The Alabama Department of Public Health early this month made its COVID-19 vaccine distribution and administration plan available to the public.

The goal of the plan is to immunize everyone who is eligible to receive a safe, effective and approved COVID-19 vaccine.

Several vaccine products are currently in clinical trials and will be released after their safety has been reviewed and approved by a panel of health experts. Vaccine will be provided free of charge.

The complete plan may be viewed at the Alabama Public Health website.

Aspects of the plan include a three-phased approach to COVID-19 vaccination, critical populations,

A COVID-19 Vaccine May Soon Be Available The soon-to-bereleased vaccines will be available free of charge with first responders and high risk workers first in line.

provider recruitment and enrollment and many additional sections pertaining to vaccine. These include storage and handling, documentation and reporting, second-dose reminders, regulatory considerations, vaccine safety and program monitoring.

In Phase 1, potentially limited

doses of vaccine will be available for those at highest risk and highest risk of exposure, first responders and healthcare workers who care for those with critical needs.

In Phase 2, large numbers of doses will be available, and supply is likely to meet demand. .

In Phase 3, there is likely to be a sufficient supply, and all unvaccinated groups will be targeted. Special attention will be directed to populations or communities with low vaccine coverage.

Staff Report Lake Martin Living 9

Tales of Dadeville History unfolds at The Mitchell House STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTOS COURTESY OF DANNY HAYES

This article contains information that Hayes did not present at his Tales of Dadeville appearance. At his behest, the writer contacted Rosalie Pennington Lancaster, a former resident of the home, who shared historical information from her parents’ records.

D

adeville’s Danny Hayes has a view of history from his home on West Columbus Street in Dadeville, as the old Mitchell house across the street has changed hands several times in his tenure as its neighbor. Hayes was the featured historian at last month’s Tales of Dadeville event, hosted

by Zazu’s Verandah owners Mitzy and Rick Hidding. The series started in August with Ralph Banks, who traced the path of the area’s early history, including the Battle of Horseshoe Bend that catapulted Andrew Jackson to the office of President of the United States of America.

Roy Mathis followed Banks in September with a program entitled Dadeville: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. Mathis presented Part One of his program on Sept. 29 and will present Part Two on Dec. 3. Emma Jean Thweat will present this month’s program on Thursday, Nov. 19.

Hayes, who serves as president of the Tallapoossee Historical Society in Dadeville, discussed the history of the Mitchell House and its most famous resident, Sidney Z. Mitchell (1862-1944).

It seems that Hayes, a retired electrician, had more in common with Mitchell than the just proximity of their addresses, as 10 Lake Martin Living

Mitchell also chose a career in electricity.

Mitchell is credited with developing the country’s electrical grid system, which keeps power flowing continually to homes and businesses nationwide, even when the local power plant isn’t generating. He also wired the first U.S. Navy ship with electric lights to replace dangerous lanterns that had previously lit the shipping industry, and he was instrumental in the construction of our own Martin Dam. Mitchell was the third generation of his family to live in the landmark home just off the square in downtown Dadeville.

A reporter by the name of Varian Feare visited the home in 1935 and spoke with the wife of its owner at the time. Feare published an article in the Birmingham News-Age-Herald in 1935, tracing the home’s origins in 1837 to a planter named M. Schackleford. The house also was occupied by an A.H. Slaughter before Mitchell’s great-grandfather, Joshua Mitchell, bought it.

A contractor, Joshua Mitchell built the courthouse at Lafayette, Alabama, and was building the original Tallapoosa County Courthouse in Dadeville when he passed away, Hayes told the audience that filled Zazu's hall last month.

Joshua’s son, Sidney Z. Mitchell’s father, was Dr. William Mandon Alexander Mitchell, a wealthy planter, physician and surgeon. A strong supporter of the Confederacy, Dr. Mitchell named his youngest son Sidney Zollicoffer Mitchell after Confederate Gen. Felix K. Zollicoffer.

Mitchell had a photographic memory and a knack for making money, Hayes told his audience last month. He lost his mother when he was 3 years old, and his father then sent him, along with his two brothers, to live in Coosa County with their maternal grandmother, Ann Jordan.

Jordan taught her grandsons to work hard, chiding them that, at 60 years old, she could not provide for them, and they must learn to find their own way. Mitchell eventually purchased land around his grandmother’s original 350-acre farm and established a hunting club that today is known as Five Star Plantation.

He became the richest man in the U.S., amassing a fortune on paper and in physical assets of $44 billion before he lost his holdings in the infamous stock market crash of the late 1920s, Hayes said. Still, he went on to become a powerful man. He developed electrical systems around the country.

With his brother, Reuben, Mitchell established the Alabama Power Development Company, which later was acquired by present-day Alabama Power’s first holding company.

Mitchell served on the War Industries Board during World War I and was instrumental in the first federal legislation to regulate electrical systems, which helped to shield the industry during the Great Depression.

Though he never returned to live in the house that bears his name, Dadeville takes great pride in being the birthplace of a man who played such a large part in shaping the modern world,

Hayes said.

The original footprint World History Clockwise from Facing Page: of the house at 357 W. Sidney Z. Mitchell changed Columbus St. where the shipping industry when Mitchell was born was he successfully wired the USS considerably smaller Trenton with electric lights; Reuben (left) and Sidney than the home is today, Mitchell founded the Alabama as the back half of the home was added several Power Development Company; years after the front of the The Mitchell House is perhaps at its most beautiful in the fall house was built. when the front lawn is carpeted “Joshua Mitchell knew in gold Gingko leaves; Dr. William some big dogs would Mandon Alexander Mitchell was be coming to the area,” a prominent supporter of the Confederacy; Sidney Z. Mitchell Hayes said. “And he was right. Williams Lowndes was named after Confederate Gen. Felix K. Zollicoffer.

Yancey gave a speech from the balcony of the house in 1860.”

An attorney and journalist, Yancey was a well known public speaker. He was a passionate secessionist and a rhetorical defender of slavery. He delivered his speech to an audience that gathered on the home’s front lawn.

Sometime after Dr. Mitchell’s death in 1865, the house changed hands again. According to Feare’s article, it was owned Lake Martin Living 11

by a James Vaughn, a Changed Lives Top: The gardens at Sidney woman by the name of Mitchell's New Jersey home Sarah Purner and a Mrs. occasionally opened for M.E. Shaffer before it was view decades after his acquired by Miss Imogene public death in 1944; Center: Mitchell B. Lackey, who sold the developed a plan to light New home to Prof. J.D. Lane in York City; Bottom: After he was 1919. born to privilege and power, The home’s great Mitchell was raised in hardship by his maternal grandmother. fluted columns on handpressed brick foundations supported a projecting portico roof and carved brackets along a line of heavy cornice moldings. The balcony, wrote Feare, featured triple balusters tied with lacy iron work.

“It is, indeed, a most interesting study of proportion and scaling of line and mass. Care is taken to soften sharp corners and hard joinings through use of moldings,” Feare wrote.

However, it was the Lanes who were responsible for the planting of the home’s greatest claim to beauty – the Gingko tree on the front lawn.

The tree, a spectacular sight in autumn when its fan-shaped leaves turn bright yellow, carpets the front lawn of the home with gold.

“A son of the Lane family had the tree sent over from China,” Hayes said.

Now more than 100 years old, the tree is perhaps the most popular photograph taken in town, as its vibrant color and unusual shape draw attention against the backdrop of the nowfamous house.

After the Lanes owned the home, it was commonly known as The Lane House, not The Mitchell House, as it is known today, said Rosalie Lancaster, who grew up in the home.

Lancaster’s parents, V.R. and Johnnie Fae Pennington, purchased the home from the Lanes in 1954 and moved there a year later. Lancaster was 4 years old then, and she remembered that the house was in a state of disrepair, as her parents had extensive work done to restore its splendor.

“There were four or five different layers of wallpaper that had to be removed, and a former remodel of the upstairs into separate apartments was undone,” Lancaster said later. “The Lanes had left some of their furniture. It was really quite something.”

The stairs were a type of steamboat stair with tall rises and narrow treads, so in the name of safety, the Penningtons replaced them. In addition to the interior restorations, the Penningtons took down two porches at the back of the house and built new porches that still stand today. They reinforced the balcony, as well.

The Penningtons sold the house to Cheryl Haggerty, who opened a hair salon in the home and rented it out for weddings and other events.

Haggerty sold the house to Jill Dishler. Vivian Autrey and her husband, Mike, recently purchased it.

Autrey made further renovations, adding a permanent tent to the backyard, and opened the house as a wedding and event venue.

Hayes said his view faces the side of the home and into the back yard.

“I get to see some good parties and some beautiful weddings,” he told the Tales of Dadeville audience. “Ms. Vivian is making it beautiful. Other houses in the area are being fixed up, and it looks just wonderful where I live.”

The next installment of Tales of Dadeville will take place at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at Zazu’s Verandah in Dadeville. Admission is free.

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Appalachian Adventure STORY BY RYNE GALLACHER & PHOTOS COURTESY OF DEFOREST TUGGLE & IRVING BLANCO

A

bond and experience like no other. lexander City native DeForest Tuggle, 23, was just a “He saw me at my worst,” Tuggle said, “physically and child when she was on a family trip at Mount Cheaha emotionally. Some days I was a complete wreck, but he was and saw a poster promoting the Appalachian Trail.

The trail intrigued Tuggle, and her imagination began always there to encourage me. We definitely learned we could do more than we ever thought possible, not just as individuals but to spin its wheels. She always kept the dream of walking the trail together as a couple too.” in the back of her mind.

In the end, Tuggle’s goal of wanting to find a career path didn’t Now, 13 years later, Tuggle has just returned home from a necessarily come to fruition, but she may have found something dream come true. She embarked on the adventure of a lifetime even better. Tuggle said she in the six-month trip with her found peace with letting boyfriend, Irving Blanco, as things fall into place how they traveled across 14 states to they may and how to adapt hike the 2,190-mile trail. to just go from there. She said Tuggle was inspired to put she learned how to adjust her plans to fruition after on the on the fly to whatever she graduated from Auburn obstacle or opportunity life University and found herself throws her way. The more transitioning from college to she tried to plan things along adulthood. She needed to clear the trail, the more things her mind and make the tough went awry. Similarly, she decision of what she wanted to said, the more you try to plan do with her life, so she decided every detail of your life, the to take the leap and go on the more you set yourself up for trail she had imagined walking disappointment. since she was a little girl.

Blanco walked away with Tuggle told Blanco, 27, a different outlook than about her dream trip early Tuggle after the trip and said on in their now three-year he believes he has tapped relationship. into his more adventurous “I told him about the trail side, which was always lying pretty early on,” Tuggle said. dormant somewhere but he “From the first day we met, I never took the steps until said, ‘If you want to be serious, Tuggle came along.

I want you know I’m going “I learned to live a more into the woods for six months adventurous life,” Blanco said. at some point.’”

“Most people come off the Prior to meeting Tuggle, the trail completely changed, and trail wasn’t even on Blanco’s I don’t think that was the case radar. But he warmed up to A Bucket List Dream Come True with me. I’m a pretty laidback the idea after the two had their DeForest Tuggle had dreamed of traversing the Appalachian Trail since she was 10 years old, and Irving guy so this was different for first date, which was, fittingly Blanco decided to go along when she hit the trail. me, but I do want to go on enough, a hiking trip. more backpacking trips after “I had zero backpacking this. I knew deep down I was an outdoors person but never this experience before this,” Blanco said. “Prior to our trip, the only extreme.” background I had in hiking and camping was on Lake Martin Tuggle and Blanco encourage others to go after whatever they with some friends and dates with her.” want in life, whether it’s a lifelong dream, newfound hobby or a Now that they’ve returned, Tuggle and Blanco have learned bucket list item. lessons they can apply to life and even have advice for others.

“There’s always the excuse that you don’t have time,” Tuggle During the arduous journey, the couple said there were trying said. “Just get out there and do it. There’s always an excuse you moments when one or the other wanted to just say “forget it” can come up with or that you can’t do it, but you can.” and go home. But when one was feeling down, the other was Both are in agreement the best part of the journey was the right there to bolster the will to go on. Through it all, Tuggle and other backpackers they met along the way, called “tramilies” Blanco came out of the experience stronger than ever with a

14 Lake Martin Living

or trail families. Tuggle and Blanco said they met dozens of amazing people on their journey, including an 89-year-old man who was hiking the trail. Blanco said he found the man’s trip inspiring because it was obvious he struggled at times but he still pushed through.

One of the tramilies they ran into was toward the tail end of the trip, but the impact the family made on Tuggle and Blanco was lasting. It was a group of four kids heading south from Maine and the couple heard them using the phrase, “It’s not about the miles; it’s about the smiles,” which really hit home for both of them and helped them push through the remainder of their trip.

Tuggle and Blanco began their journey on the Appalachian Trail March 8 in Dahlonega, Georgia. The couple was on the trail for three weeks when they reached Franklin, North Carolina.

Upon arriving, the two received their first warnings about the coronavirus, and by March 29 they were on their way back home because the trail was shut down, along with towns and shops along the way for backpackers. Blanco and Tuggle reached Hot Springs, North Carolina, before heading home for a short break.

“It was scary,” Blanco said. “We didn’t know anything until we went into the towns; and then, it would be a lot of information at once, so it was overwhelming. We were in Franklin when we heard about the seriousness of the virus. They began to shut down businesses, hotels and whole counties. We were even threatened with tickets from police if we didn’t get off the trail.”

Blanco and Tuggle left the trail and came home for five weeks until the trail and towns along the trail began to reopen. Then they set out once again full-steam ahead on their adventure.

The pair said one of the hardest parts of getting acclimated to life on the trail was the foot blisters from all the walking. Tuggle struggled with blisters not just once, but twice because of the five-week break. She said it’s something you can’t necessarily prepare for beforehand so you have to get used to it. That wasn’t the only obstacle for Tuggle; she also contracted Lyme disease from a tick and was prescribed antibiotics to get her through.

When it came to food, the couple stopped in small towns along the trail to resupply on granola bars, Pop Tarts, peanut butter and instant mashed potatoes. If they were lucky, the local shops would have meals-ready-to-eat packs that were considered a luxury on the trail. And hot sauce was plentiful in the couple’s

diet throughout the Miles to Go The trail covers 2,190 miles over journey, so foods wouldn’t be boring along 14 states and includes a number of spectacular vistas. the way. They stopped to resupply roughly five days at a time, depending on how low their food supply was.

“At first we carried way too much food, and it dragged us down,” Tuggle said. “Not only are you wasting energy but sometimes the food as well. After a few stops, we worked out the perfect amount – sometimes too perfect, as we’d run out of food as we ran into towns on a couple of occasions.”

Because they ate only when necessary and with all the strenuous activity the two went through on a daily basis, Tuggle lost a whopping 35 pounds on the trip while Blanco lost between 25 to 30 pounds.

When it came time for rest, the couple nestled up in shelters along the path. The shelters were usually separated anywhere from 6 to 12 miles apart from each other. The shelters were three-walled structures with flooring and usually were made of wood. The couple also came prepared with their own 2-pound tents that could be used when shelters were already occupied by another group of hikers.

“At the beginning, we traveled from shelter to shelter because we weren’t acclimated to doing that many miles,” Blanco said.

Occasionally, Blanco and Tuggle stayed in hostels in the mountain towns. This gave them opportunities to wash clothes, take showers and enjoy hot meals – the simple pleasures from home many often take for granted.

Blanco and Tuggle’s advice to inexperienced backpackers is to, first, travel light; and then, get the expensive gear because they said you will end up buying it anyway after the cheaper equipment has failed. And then, take things one day at a time and enjoy the experience and those you are experiencing the trail with.

Irving and Blanco brought cell phones on the trip but rarely used them due to spotty service on the trail. But Blanco brought a camera to record hundreds of hours of footage of the adventure. They have since posted videos of their experience on their YouTube channel called Dee & Irv, with more to come in the following weeks.

Lake Martin Living 15

More Time to Play Every Day

I

s it because of COVID-19 or this being an election year? I’m not certain, but this has felt like one toasty long summer. Change is always happening, and since the week of Halloween or Hurricane Zeta, temperatures have been dropping like the water in Lake Martin in November. Take home your sweat towel and wash it, you may be wrapping it around your neck for extra insulation soon.

What will the drop in temperature do to your golf game?

The answer is: a number of things. First, let’s approach the obvious. You’ll most likely be wearing a layer or two more of clothing, which is sure to slow your swing down a little.

Harsh northern fall and winter winds will affect the golf ball as much as anything. That approach shot into No. 14 at Willow Point Country Club with the wind out of the north (right-to-left towards the lake) has always been exciting in the winter.

In Alabama, we expect to receive our fair share of rainfall in the winter. This, of course, will make fairways quite soft.

Especially in the wintertime, don’t expect a great deal of roll from your golf ball with a driver. The sun and heat in the late spring, summer and early fall help the water evaporate and be absorbed; that’s not happening for the next few months. You will find more balls plugging rather than rolling from your good tee shots.

If you’re playing golf with your friends during these cooler damp months, have fun and play “Winter Rules” (lift, clean and place) if your ball is in closely mown areas.

I guarantee you won’t want to play a mud ball from the fairway. Mud stuck on the golf ball will create some of the goofiest looking golf shots ever. If you’re in a competitive round of golf and rules make it mandatory – you’ll just have to deal with it.

Should you be required to hit a golf shot with mud on your ball, there’s a general rule of thumb to follow. The golf ball will normally fly to the opposite direction that the mud is on. If there is mud on the left side of the ball, expect the ball to go a bit right, sometimes way right.

With temperatures dropping, golf shots do not compress

16 Lake Martin Living

the golf ball at impact as much. This will cause the ball to fly a little shorter than normal, too. You should “club up” (select the next club up from your usual shot) at least one extra club on your approach shots to the green.

Another bit of a golf tip, especially if you’re a high ball hitter: Choke down and take more club. This will create a lower trajectory shot that will not be influenced as much by the wind. It’s all about controlling the golf ball. Try it a few times and compare it to your normal swing shots. You will quickly adapt and have another shot in your arsenal.

Use good sense and take good care of golf courses this time of year. Years ago, most courses overseeded the fairways and greens with rye grass. This practice made for a pretty course, but it also had its demons.

Even the most expensive rye grass seed always brought along some crazy weed seeds. These weeds brought nightmares to the golf course superintendents. When over seeding greens, I vividly remember the two to three weeks of putting on Velcro speed greens, as we waited for the rye grass to root well enough to cut them at reasonable green speed length. Thank heavens we don’t do that anymore.

Going without overseeding on fairways and greens, the dormant grass still needs attention, and that should come mostly from the golfers that are playing the game. If you’re riding in a golf cart, be cautious that you’re not driving in soft areas and creating tire ruts and depressions. When hitting approach shots or off the tee with an iron, be sure to kick in your divot. Always attempt to kick the grass back to the center of the divot, and if you have sand available, add just enough sand to cover the divot and reach the level of the surrounding turf; don’t build a mound. In other words; do not pour too much sand in these divots. The problem that this causes is to the mower’s blades. As you could well imagine, turf care mower blades are designed to cut soft blades of grass, not to smooth out sand-filled divots.

On the greens, ball mark repair is a necessity. Even if you’re a low-ball hitter and your ball skidded on the green, find where it landed and smooth that area out. Keep in mind, if it hit the green, it created a mark – repair it. While

From the Tee

or ever before. Maybe a niece or nephew. On you’re at it, fix another ball mark or two while most days, you won’t be slowing the pace of you have your divot tool out. play as you would when the place is packed.

Dress appropriately for the weather. A pair Remember, an enjoyable round of golf does not of rain pants over your slacks in the morning have to consist of 18 holes. If you only have time will do the trick on most days. A beanie cap, for six or nine holes – get them in. flexible jacket and thermal long-sleeved shirt Anyone who has lived in the northern part under your golf shirt will keep you comfortable of the USA knows that these upcoming months most days. Don’t forget about your feet. Wear are bonus months on the golf course for us in two pairs of socks; it won’t hurt your golf game. the South. When I was a golf professional in Also, you may want to find those older leather Pennsylvania in the early 80s, being a Southern golf shoes you used to wear all the time. The boy, I couldn’t believe how the locals there more breathable, lightweight shoes may not were so conditioned to calling it quits for the do the job of keeping your feet warm and dry year after October. After that year in York, during the winter.

Pennsylvania, I returned to the South and never Check with your golf professional to prepare considered moving residence up North again. for these upcoming months.

Whether you were born here, transferred Although it’s colder, don’t miss out on some Dave Jennings in or retired in our area, you are a group that I great times and beautiful days on the golf will refer to as the lucky ones. Keep your clubs course this winter. We are very fortunate to handy. Aside from those frosty days, you know have a 12-month golf season here. Understand full well that we will also have days that give us some of and respect the conditions. You may want to play from an the most wonderful golfing weather throughout the winter extra tee up to have more fun this winter, but enjoy what’s season. Stay loose and take on a few of those colder days so available. Dress for the weather conditions. You’ll most that you don’t have to start over again in the spring season. likely find less congestion on the course and be able to I hope to see you on the tee. Wear your beanie cap and enjoy yourself more. For those really cold days, purchase a stay warm! butane heater for your cart. These inexpensive gizmos feel wonderful when the big chill hits.

Dave Jennings coaches the men's golf team at Central With slower traffic on the golf course, consider Alabama Community College. introducing someone to the game that hasn’t played much

Lake Martin Living 17

18 Lake Martin Living

Don't put the lawn mower away yet Fall clean up makes a better spring lawn

T

he hot days of summer are gone, and the cooler days of fall are here. There is nothing like being outdoors, enjoying the cooler weather. There is less gardening to do in the fall; however, there still is plenty of yard work that has to be done. Much of the summer season involved growing and harvesting. The fall season is more dedicated to cleaning up the yard and garden and getting ready for next year. The cooler weather should at least inspire us to tackle those fall chores.

Lawn Cleanup

As the summer season winds down, the home lawn will only need to be mowed a few more times, but before retiring that lawn mower for its long winter nap, it is a good idea to mow the lawn one or two more times to clean up the yard before the autumn and winter months arrive. Just as there is spring cleaning, there is also fall cleaning.

Mowing the lawn and bagging the clippings will help remove many of those weed seeds that anticipated sprouting this winter. It also will help to get rid of any other debris, such as leaves, mushrooms, twigs, etc., and it will add that nice clean look to your lawn for the winter. Whether you call it mowing the lawn or vacuuming the yard, doing so will help reduce much

of your yard work in the long run.

Raking Leaves

Raking leaves is usually the number one chore for the fall and, occasionally, must be repeated a few times, depending on how many trees are around the home.

The most common practice of getting rid of leaves has always been piling them up; and then, burning them or hauling them off. That may be easy but is not necessarily a wise choice. Instead, mimic nature and recycle them into something more useful and beneficial.

The easy method is to do nothing.

Letting the leaves stay under trees as mulch is not only natural but also beneficial to trees. In reality, this is what nature intended in the first place. In a forest, the leaves protect the trees’ roots and hinder grass or weeds from growing under trees. Leaves and nutrients are then recycled back into the soil. If this same process was duplicated in yards, landscape trees would be much more healthy.

There are so many ways fallen leaves could be used. Mowing and shredding them out in the yard will decompose them faster and will A Dog's Life add organic A Golden retriever matter to puppy romps in a pile of the lawn and leaves and pinestraw.

Lake Martin Living 19

Garden Talk

soil. Putting them in a compost pile is a great idea, as this will help break them down and recycle them into humus, which is the perfect soil amendment. Storing them in the abandon garden and later turning them in will help improve the garden’s soil structure and fertility. The unwanted leaves could also be shredded and used as a fine mulch around plants.

The absolute worst thing to do is to bag fallen leaves up and throw them out with the garbage.

This habit only passes the whatto-do-with-them problem on to Shane Harris someone else and creates more storage and expense problems in the landfill. Burning them can be quite appealing but is a real waste of something valuable to our plants.

Apply Mulch

Mulching plants is one of the most neglected and underrated garden and landscape chores. The advantages of mulch far outweigh the disadvantages. Placing some type of mulch around plants will help suppress weeds in the bed or garden, help hold in and conserve moisture, control and maintain soil temperature during the summer and winter, improve soil structure as it decays, and add beauty to the appearance of the garden and landscape.

The only disadvantage of mulch is the cost and task of replacing it.

Apply mulch to new plants and replace old mulch, if necessary, around existing plants before winter arrives.

As a general rule, no more than 3 inches of mulch should be placed around plants. More is not better; exceeding 3 inches of mulch could create other plant problems, like poor air circulation and surface root development into the mulch. Existing mulch that has decayed severely can be 20 Lake Martin Living

topped with a newer layer.

There are several types of mulch that could be used.

Pine straw and pine bark by far are the most popular for landscape plantings, but newspaper, shredded leaves, aged wood chips, straw, grass clippings and pea gravel could all be used, depending on the situation. Take advantage and gather up the new fallen leaves or pine needles in your own yard or in your neighbor’s yard; mulch can be expensive, so using what is free will really help you save some money.

Plant Flower Bulbs

Fall is also the time to plant spring flowering bulbs, such as daffodils, narcissus, tulips, lilies, crocuses, hyacinths and irises. Most are planted in the fall and bloom the following spring well before most perennials and annuals.

In Alabama, spring flowering bulbs are planted from September through November, with October usually being the recommended time.

If you buy bulbs to plant, always buy them from a reputable dealer. Avoid bulbs that are soft or look molded or discolored. Select large, firm bulbs without blemishes or rotten spots and store them in a cold, dry place until planting time. Temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit may damage the flower bulbs. A general rule of thumb for planting depth (from top of bulb to soil surface) is two to three times the greatest diameter for bulbs 2 inches or more in diameter, and three to four times the greatest diameter for smaller bulbs.

There is a direct correlation between the quality of the bulb and the quality of the flower purchased. Beware of

bargain bulbs; they Consider the Options are often of inferior Left: Burning leaves wastes lawn nutrients; Above: Natural mulch quality or size and is what nature intended. don’t bloom well.

Bulbs are generally graded and sold according to size. Large bulbs produce larger and/or multiple flowers, but the largest bulbs are not necessary for good landscape effect. In most cases, medium grades are preferred.

Take advantage of the cooler weather and enjoy the outdoors, even if it requires some yardwork.

Shane Harris is the county extension coordinator for Tallapoosa County.

Lake Martin Living 21

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22 Lake Martin Living

Shoo, Dine, & Unwind thii Holiday Season!

Lake Martin Living 23

Community goes back

24 Lake Martin Living

to college

CACC Interim President Jeff Lynn outlines a plan to open campus to the community STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

Lake Martin Living 25

J

eff Lynn wants to make Central Alabama Community College the most innovative facility of its kind in the Southeast, and he wants to do it by returning use of the campus to its middle-namesake.

“Community colleges used to have programs for the community, and that’s something we want to bring back,” Lynn said. “My mom went to community college at night to learn upholstery. I’m not saying we need to do that program, but we need to open our campus to the community.

“I want to find out how the community wants to use the campus. We can do the legwork and provide a great location for them to come and learn.”

His hope is to provide programming and opportunities for local students from kindergarten through 12th grade and beyond, enhancing life in the community for all ages and all walks of life.

“Not to compete but to complement what they’re doing, to supplement it, enhance it,” he explained. “We’re looking for how we can improve what we do for the high schools.”

Lynn is a product of the community college system himself. He attended Southern Union Community College before he transitioned to Auburn University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in organizational management.

“And then, I left the sate for 31 years,” he said. “I started a new workforce development program in Louisiana, and I think it was very helpful to have that experience. It’s good to go and see what is out there. You see the globe in a different way, and you can bring those experiences back with you, where they can enhance what we’re doing here.”

26 Lake Martin Living

Lynn, who was named interim president of CACC last summer, is focused on listening – to students, nonprofits, business owners, industry leaders, educators, parents, city leaders, seniors, laborers and more – to find out what events, activities, classes, programs and other opportunities they would like to see available to them through CACC. He’s listening for programs that will support quality of life and drive the local economy.

“That means we need strategic planning and advisory groups talking about what the local businesses and industries need, and for that, we need participation and stakeholders.

We need to reach out and connect with partners in K-through-12 and create pipelines that lead to jobs and higher education,” Lynn explained. “We are listening to our students, asking what they want in their life on campus, what they want to do on our campus. We want them to see a very polished, clean campus when they return – we’re hoping to have all our students back on campus in January.”

Lynn also hopes to resurrect programs in the arts, including the jazz band, theatrical productions and touring events. He is working with an architectural group to ascertain improvements needed to resurrect student and community use of campus buildings, including the HEA Auditorium.

“We have to look at these buildings as opportunities.

These kinds of activities bring some great culture to the campus. Our students need that, and we hope the community would want that as well,” he said. “We are losing a lot of opportunities for not only the community, but also

for the students who love the arts.”

Thinking about community college in partnership with the community is part of his DNA, Lynn said.

“When I think about community college, I think about enriching lives. The beauty of community college is that we can reach everyone in the community, from high school through 80 and above. There’s a lot that we could do; a lot that we’re not doing yet.

“When I pull into the office early in the morning, I see about 20 people – community members – walking. They walk on the perimeter street. I want to just get out of my car and start interviewing them. Why do they walk here?

What else can we do at the college that they would want to participate in?

“We have tennis courts here, and I see people in the community playing tennis. I’m in the process of updating those courts. I want people to be proud to come here.”

Lynn said he feels a sense of urgency in his push toward becoming the best community college in the area.

“I am not a patient person,” he said. “I don’t like bureaucracy. We need to seize the moment and stay focused.

We’ve got a lot of work to do, but I don’t mind doing it.

“As interim president of the school, I need to really listen and find out what the community wants and make it happen. I am humbled to be here.”

Funding for improvements could come through the ASPIRE 2030 program, an Alabama Community College System initiative to inspire community-focused strategic planning for capital improvement projects. ACCS

The Quest to Be the Best

Previous Pages: Jeff Lynn (center) confers with Glenda Bland and Brittany McGregor on building improvements; Above Left: Students and townspeople are encouraged to submit ideas for activities and events they would like to see return to campus; Above: The first ACT II production was staged in CACC's HEA Auditorium and featured students from BRHS, CACC and Southern Union Community College, as well as CACC faculty and community professionals.

Chancellor Jimmy H. Baker encouraged college presidents to “dream big” when developing proposals for ASPIRE 2030 funding.

Baker was named chancellor in the spring of 2017, replacing Mark Heinrich, who was appointed in 2012.

“There has been a lot of change in the mindset at the system level with this chancellor,” Lynn explained. “His mindset is to be fully engaged with the community. That’s what he’s trying to embrace across the state. My role is to embrace the community, not only for the community but also for the students.

“For me, it’s a challenge. I always want to be the best, so I want to beat out the other colleges for this funding.

We need the money to get programs that are viable for the community and for students. I want more activity. Come to me and tell me what you’d like to see here. We’ll figure out how to handle it.”

Lynn can be contacted at 256-215-4300 or email him at jlynn@cacc.edu.

Lake Martin Living 27

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28 Lake Martin Living

Are you ready for 2021?

W

save a lot of headaches down the line. ith how rapidly things seem to change, Develop a relationship with your banker. The many of us may find it challenging to last few months have taught us that a relationship prepare for next week, let alone next with your banker has never been more important. year. But it’s important to take time in Whether there’s a project you see on the horizon or 2020 to be sure you’re ready for 2021. As a business banker at Valley Bank in Alexander City, I have a few an issue you’re presently experiencing, keeping an tips to share on how business owners and individuals open line of communication with your banker allows them to provide value in any financial climate. might prepare for whatever’s ahead.

Look for ways to shrink costs without cutting Stay organized. This year, I assisted 140 clients anything. in obtaining Refinancing a Paycheck mortgage is a Protection good example Program loans, of a strategy and it was that may allow pretty easy to you to save see that those money without that had their tightening your documentation belt. Rates are in order and at at historic lows, their fingertips, so ask your moved through banker for a the process more few refinance smoothly than scenarios to those that did review side by not. Taking a side. You might little time each be able to shave month to stay years off what organized will you’re currently paying with little to no help you be prepared for any emergencies change in your monthly payment. while you take advantage of new Know what you could cut or change opportunities. if necessary. COVID-19 instantly During financial good times, save for trimmed expenses, such as travel and the bad times. Because so many people entertainment, from everyone’s 2020 flocked to the lake, summer started early budget, but take a look at what other here, which meant a lot of businesses costs could be expendable should the actually thrived during the spring and need arise. Maybe there’s a boat payment summer. When times are good, put more that you could cut if you had to. For into savings, because no one knows exactly businesses, take a look at your lease what’s around the corner. Ask your banker and see if you could get out of it or do to help analyze and advise a savings and a sublease. Take stock of your expenses investment strategy based on the goals and make note of what you could cut out for both your personal life and business if you suddenly needed access to more ventures.

Kevin Speaks money.

Collaborate on your planning and decision-making. It’s typical to see one Kevin Speaks is a business banker and assistant party in a business relationship or one spouse in vice president for Valley Bank in Alexander City. He a marriage do all the financial planning. Now is a specializes in commercial and small business lending great time to make sure that everyone who plays a and has been in the banking industry for 12 years. part in your finances gets on the same page. From sharing information on what you have and where it’s held to having online access to all of your accounts, be sure everyone knows what’s going on. This will

MONEY MATTERS

Lake Martin Living 29

30 Lake Martin Living

Road Trip UTV tour adds fun to fall season retreat

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

R

ise early and head to breakfast at The Grille at the Club House on Pursell Farms’ rolling estate to fuel the adventure ahead.

Exploring the rugged, breathtaking wooded trails and wide open spaces of this 3,200-acre outdoor sports resort west of Sylacauga on a guided UTV Mountain Experience tour is the best way to appreciate the scenic landscape and experience a little of the wild side at the same time.

“We wanted to find a new way for our guests to enjoy the meadows, woodlands and hills that make up our varied terrain.

Guests drive the UTVs, and they are fun to drive, with the unexpected finale of getting a panoramic perspective of the area from the top of the mountain,” said David Pursell, co-founder of the Sylacauga resort.

With proper respect to current social distancing guidelines, up to four participants could pile into each of six John Deere Gators for the roughly two-hour adventure across the varied terrain.

Guides host two tours per day, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

During the week, tours are guided by request.

“Someone is always calling to experience the tour, and we get a lot of return clients,” said Sidney Sims, spa and activities supervisor at Pursell Farms.

The approximately 7- to 10-mile exploration includes several stops where guests take in bird’s-eye views, drink in the local lore and indulge in one or two side excursions.

“The UTV Experience is a storytelling tour of the farm,” said Pursell. “Hernando de Soto camped here; Andrew Jackson was active nearby; white marble from Sylacauga graces some of the finest buildings and monuments in the U.S. – some of the historic tidbits our guide talks about during the ride. It’s very personal to my family and me. We lived on this land long before it was Pursell Farms. My wife, Ellen, and I would load our kids up in four-wheel drive vehicles and explore these areas. We all still talk about those memories.”

As the convoy begins its ascent up the mountain, the first stop overlooks the No. 5 hole on the resort’s destination golf course, The Faster the Better

Dress warm and plan to get wet when the UTV roars through the woods and creeks at Pursell Farms.

Lake Martin Living 31

which boasts seven consecutive Spectacular Views Above: The tour stops for views of the honors among Golfweek’s “Best golf course; Right: The lake and The Inn Courses You Can Play.” At the top, are visible from the Secret Place vista; a 172-degree vertical drop opens Bottom Right: Guests drive the John a spectacular view of the golf Deere Gators for the two-hour tours. course below.

“From here, you can see Sulfur tour, capping out Mountain in the distance, which is the highest point on the at 28 miles per property and where we wind our way up to,” she said. hour.

This initial stop puts the property and distant landmarks “We make it so into perspective, and perceptions of these locations change that pretty much as the elevation rises. At each stop, adventurers can spot The anyone can drive Inn at Pursell Farms and Lake Christine in its front yard, them, despite along with other picturesque attractions. experience or lack Driving through hardwood and pine forest on the rocky thereof,” said Sims. terrain, UTV riders happen across Pursell Farm’s Secret Sulfur Place, a wide-open vista that offers a stunning panoramic Mountain is the view – nearly 360 degrees – of the entire property. highlight of the “You can see Lay Lake from here and the Sylacauga ride. At 1,000 feet Marble Quarry in the distance,” said Sims. in elevation, this On occasion, Pursell Farms hosts dinners or sunrise spot overlooks the services at Secret Place, as the setting holds a sense of peace town of Talladega and transcendence.

Springs and showcases Lay Lake, in yet another stunning, But that is left behind when the tour makes its next stop. widespread view.

The most popular stop for kids on the tour includes an old “We usually stop here for a little while and let people take tire swing tied to a high tree branch. it all in; snap some photos; look for rocks,” said Sims.

“Kids are obsessed with it. We can sometimes spend 20 Sims encourages tour-goers to pick up rocks to add to a minutes here just letting them enjoy,” said Sims. “I must say, neatly stacked pile on this mountaintop. it’s fun for adults, too.”

The last stop was added after the Pursells were out hiking These trails – some of which have been in place for one day and stumbled upon a pile of rocks resembling a generations and others that were established specifically for grave. the tour – cut through the middle of the mountain. Half of “Andrew Jackson and his troops came through this area, the UTV tour trails are used only for tour purposes. so it could be a soldier,” said Sims. “Or a Native American, On recently rainy days, deep watering holes lend since there are a lot of artifacts out here on the property.” themselves to muddy, messy, good times, as the UTVs dive Similar rock formations in the area could indicate other into water that splashes over the vehicles, almost engulfing graves, as well, Sims said, but the owners do not know the them. The degree of speed varies this effect; and of course, stories behind them. the faster, the better.

“We hope to get someone out here to check it out though, The Gators generally operate in low gear throughout the and at least maybe determine how old it is,” she said.

32 Lake Martin Living

Order a picniclunch to eat on the patio at ArringtonVista before spending time on the golf course or take the tour a second time to see if faster really is better.

The UTV Mountain Experience launched about a month after The Inn was completed in 2018.

“The UTV tour is hands down my favorite thing to do. It is the thing to do,” said Sims. “All of our activities are great, but with this, you really get to see the whole property.”

To reserve a tour, call 256-208-7600. Tours are only available to overnight guests. For more information about the UTV Experience or Pursell Farms’ other amenities, visit PursellFarms.com.

Lake Martin Living 33

OH SNAP! 1

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Dadeville Open House Sunday, November 1, 2020 Pennington Park 1. Ann Marie and Stokes Jones 2. Laurie Downing 3. DeDe Wilson 4. Michelle Watson 5. Renae Baker, Michelle Turner and Candice Moore 6. Stacy Marano 7. Emma Jean Thweat, Hannah Bruce, Sheila Holt, Emmalee Bruce and Alaina Holderfield

34 Lake Martin Living

7

OH SNAP! 1

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5 4 6

Fall Festival Saturday, October 31, 2020 Russell Crossroads 1. Jo-Jo and Jackson McRae 2. Luke Klakning 3. Tyquaun Russell 4. Bethany Cox 5. Maggie Hewlett, Julie Ann Ingram, Levi Hewlett, Graham and Adzison Ingram and Malachi, Titus and Christine Hewlett

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6. Adalyn Brewster 7. Avery Waites and Harper Grace Brewster

Lake Martin Living 35

OH SNAP! 2

1 3 4

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Alexander City Trick R Treat Friday, October 31, 2020 Alexander City 1. Shirley Yound and Brenda Broughton 2. Rev. Frederick Young 3. Drew, Mandy, Ava and Mandy Wright 4. Robin and Braxton Owens and Ivan Jordan 5. Alma Chambliss and Laura Boleware 6. Lisa Holman and Zaid, Layan and Reema Alqahtani

36 Lake Martin Living

6

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Santa Claus is coming to town Find out when and where for your chance to see him

Even though we’re just halfway through November, children’s thoughts already have turned to Christmas and – more specifically – when and where they will have the opportunity to impart to St. Nick the lists of toys, presents and blessings they hope to find under the tree on Christmas morning.

Lucky for them, Santa Claus will make a number of appearances in Tallapoosa County as the calendar seems to crawl toward Christmas 2020.

From Russell Crossroads to New Water Farms and the local Christmas parades, he will meet local children to learn their hearts’ desires for Christmas.

His first stop in the area will take place the day after Thanksgiving when he arrives by carriage at Russell Crossroads for Christmas Here Comes Santa Claus at Crossroads. He will Santa's pre-holiday tour through Tallapoosa County greet children on the includes an overnight stop at New Water Farms.

Town Green Stage from

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At the Holiday Bazaar, the works of local artisans will be on display for sale, plus there will be crafts and games for the children.

On Dec. 5, the Jolly Old Elf will slip into New Water Farms at 5 p.m. to share s’mores and visit with children in the area.

He’ll spend the night at New Water and have breakfast with children on Sunday, Dec. 6, before he goes to Dadeville for the first parade of the season.

The Dadeville Spirit of a Hometown Christmas Parade starts at 3 p.m., and there will be bands and floats, arts and crafts and food vendors.

The very next day, Santa will usher in the season in Alexander City at 6 p.m. when he joins the Hometown Christmas Parade as it winds through the streets with dancers, floats, bands and more.

For details on Santa’s tour through Tallapoosa County, see the scheduled events on the facing page.

Lake Martin Living 37

LAKE REGION EVENTS Nov. 15

Alexander City Holiday Open House

The Christmas shopping season begins downtown in Alexander City when local shops open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to showcase decorating and gift ideas, along with speciality items for everyone on your holiday list.

Nov. 19

Tales of Dadeville

Hosted by Zazu’s Verandah in downtown Dadeville, Tales of Dadeville will feature Emma Jean Thweat in a discussion about the history of the buildings on the courthouse square.

Nannie Bell’s will be open next door for the event. Storytelling will begin at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Nov. 20

9th Annual Denim & Diamonds

Lake Martin Event Center at the World Famous Rodeo Club will host this annual auction event to benefit Lake Martin Area United Way. Tickets are $50 per person and include a steak dinner and musical entertainment. Silent and live auctions keep this “Evening of Giving” moving. For tickets, visit the Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber at 345 Lafayette St. No. 102, Dadeville, or the LMAUW office at 17 Main St., Alexander City, or call 256-825-4019 or 256-329-3600. Tickets also are available at the World Famous Rodeo Club.

Nov. 27

Christmas at Crossroads and the Holiday Bazaar

Santa will arrive by carriage and will be in attendance at the Town Green Stage from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be arts and crafts and games for the children, and the annual juried art show will return to the Town Green at Russell Crossroads from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Local artisans will display for sale their original works in jewelry, reclaimed wood décor, paintings, pottery, metalwork, photography, candles, soaps and more.

Artisans interested in displaying works are invited to contact Tyler Mitchell at tmitchell@russelllands.com. Vendor space is limited. Social distancing will be maintained. Masks will be required.

38 Lake Martin Living

Dec. 3

Tales of Dadeville

Roy Mathis will return to Zazu’s Verandah for the second half of his presentation on Dadeville history.

Bring a non-perishable food item donation. Nannie Bell’s will be open next door. Storytelling begins at 6:30 p.m.

Admission is free.

Dec. 5

Santa Claus at New Water Farms

Have s’mores with Santa from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and tell him what you want for Christmas from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at New Water Farms, 460 Civitan Rd., Dadeville. Sunday morning, join Santa for a pancake breakfast from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. He will visit with children again from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday.

S’mores and breakfast will cost $5 each, and reservations will be required. Space is limited. Make reservations by Nov. 30 by calling Caroline at 662-346-1214 or Lea Ann at 205-248-2571. Visiting with Santa is free. There will be yard games and Christmas decorations at the farm.

Dec. 6

Spirit of a Hometown Christmas Parade

Dec. 12

Russell Marine Winter Bass Clash

This inaugural fishing tournament will launch with a unique format of challenge flights of 25 boats. Flights will be computer generated by random draw.

First place will win $1,000; second place will win $600, and the Big Fish winner will receive $250. Big Fish and Top Weight awards also will be presented in each flight. The entry fee is $120, and all proceeds will benefit local charities. At least one angler from each team must attend the safety and rules meeting at Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors on U.S. Highway 280 from 6: 30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 11. Visit russellmarine.net/event/russell-marinewinter-bass-clash for more information and registration.

Dec. 12

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party

Bluff ’s floating daiquiri bar at Harbor Pointe Marina will host the fun from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a sweater contest, a DJ, drink specials and more.

Dec. 25

Christmas Day Lunch

The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber will host its seventh annual Christmas Parade from noon to 5 p.m. in downtown Dadeville. There will be arts and crafts booths and food vendors.

The parade will begin at 3 p.m. To be a vendor or enter the parade, contact the chamber at 256-825-4019 or email chamber@dadeville.com.

Comer and Duncan United Methodist churches again this year will offer free Christmas lunch for all from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 427 E. Church St., Alexander City.

Drive through to pick up a to-go plate or enjoy the food and fellowship inside the hall. For more information about the lunch, contact Stephanie Jennings at 256675-6494 or email her at jenningssteph@ aol.com. Visit Comer UMC on Facebook.

Hometown Christmas Parade

Season-long Events

Dec. 7

This year’s annual Hometown Christmas Parade will wind its way through Alexander City to the theme, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

Spectators line the streets to watch the dancers and bands perform, see the floats and welcome Jolly Old St. Nick. Visit www.alexcitychamber.com/christmasparade for the route, details and entry information.

Dec. 11

Jon Conlee Concert

The Rodeo Club will host country music icon Jon Conlee at 8 p.m. Tickets are $40. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Charity Bingo

Every Tuesday in September, stop in at Niffer’s at the Lake at 6 p.m. for eight rounds of Bingo to benefit the Lake Martin Area United Way. Cards are $1 each. The first seven rounds pay Niffer’s dollars, but the last round pays a cash jackpot.

Soup to Go

Drive through the parking lot at St. James Episcopal Church at 347 S. Central Ave. between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. every Tuesday and pick up a brown bag dinner with soup, sandwich, fruit and dessert. COVID-19 precautions are taken

LAKE REGION EVENTS by volunteers who prepare, pack and distribute the meal, which is open to the whole community.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

Volunteers in Alexander City and Dadeville are encouraged to participate in community partnership cleanups every month. In Alexander City, cleanups are held the third Saturday of the month.

Meet at Broad Street Plaza at 8:30 a.m. for supplies and area assignments. For more information, contact Jacob Meacham at jacob.meacham@alexandercitychamber. com. In Dadeville, the monthly cleanup is held on the first Saturday of the month, and volunteers can pick up sanitized pickers and bags at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall and drop trash bags off on site.

Contact Dianna Porter at 256-750-0075.

Millerville Trade Day

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

Library Storytime in Dadeville

Storytime for children aged 5 and younger is held at the Dadeville Public Library every Tuesday at 10 a.m.

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschool-aged and younger children. In addition, the children’s library hosts board games and puzzles every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information, call Melissa Finley at 256-234-4644.

Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit

The Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony on Lake Martin exhibit is on display all year long at the Alexander City Board of Education building, located at 375 Lee St.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift

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.

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

This group meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus.

Participants come and go between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5 p.m., followed by show-and-tell. Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.

Real Island Supper

The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper on the second Friday in December) at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room, 1495 Real Island Rd., Equality. Everyone is welcome.

Admission is $3 per adult; bring a covered dish to share. Some nights are themed, so call ahead to find out if costumes or certain types of food are in order. For more information, contact Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724.

Charity Bingo at Jake’s

Play charity bingo at Jake’s Restaurant at 16 Broad St., Alexander City, at 6 p.m. every Thursday night. Cards are $1, and proceeds benefit local charities.

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, call Michael Courtney at 256-825-7766 or Mike Smith at 256-750-5710.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

Naturalist Marianne Hudson fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and

listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl, just to mention a few. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature in the wild and the outdoor classroom. Check the calendar at RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com/blog/ events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Trivia Night at Niffer’s on the Lake

Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts trivia night at 7 p.m. Winners receive Niffer’s gift cards. First place gets $40; second place gets $25; and third place gets $15.

Grab a group of friends and come out for a night of games. A bonus question is posted on the Niffer’s Facebook page at 2 p.m. Thursdays.

Open Studio

The Artists Association of Central Alabama meets from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Senior Center and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays at the Dadeville Senior Center on Columbus St. Beginners are welcome, and there is no charge for open studios. Call June Dean at 334-301-5317 for more information.

Charity Bingo at Niffer’s on the Lake

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

Equality VFD Cookout and Bake Sale

On the first Saturday of each month, except January and February, the Equality Volunteer Fire Department hosts a bake sale, starting at 8 a.m. and lunch is served starting at 10:30 a.m. at the old Masonic Lodge in downtown Equality. Email Richard Penton at drichardpenton@ gmail.com for more information.

Equality Neighborhood Watch

The Equality Neighborhood Watch Association meets on the second Tuesday of each month at the old Masonic Lodge at 6:30 p.m. During the colder months, it meets at Equality Methodist Church. For more information, email Richard Penton at drichardpenton@gmail.com.

Lake Martin Living 39

9

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

9

Power lines

280

18

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

14

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Flint Hill Church

22

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Pleasant Grove Church

25

11

9

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

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Smith Landing Willow Point

6

Seman

4 Camp Kiwanis

9

10 1

Church in The Pines

Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko w

ali

ga

Stillwaters

19 5

7 2

Union Landing

Ba

22 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

22

Walnut Hill

y

20 24

80

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

8 63 17 9

Equality

231

16

57

12 24

Dade

280

26

Liberty Church

20

Jacksons Gap

23

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

15

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic Santuck

11 Kent Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

40 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUN

Marinas

Daviston

1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 2 The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

22

hoe Bend nal Park

eville

ON NTY

20 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

5 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 6 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

21 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

7 Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

22 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853

Camp Hill

88 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 9 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 10 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

50

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

Business & Shopping Waverly

50

19 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853

33. River North Marina 256-397-1500

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 4 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Restaurants & Venues

CHAMBERS COUNTY

18 Dark Insurance 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010

Hotels & Lodges

Churches

23 Lake Pointe Baptist Church

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

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

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

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

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

13 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

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

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 15 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

13

16 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853

LEE COUNTY

17 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

Loachapoka 14

Notasulga 85 81

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

Lake Martin Living 41

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

ATTENTION READERS: Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic some of our distribution locations have changed. This month, you may pick up the most recent issue of Lake magazine at the following locations. If you are ordering take out from any of the restaurants listed below or delivery from any of these groceries, request your free copy of Lake magazine with your order.

ALEXANDER CITY Robinson Iron A & M Plumbing Valley National Bank - 280 Carlos The Body Shop Jake's Moore Wealth Management Carlisle's Wine Emporium CACC Cloud Nine Shay Aesthetics Piggly Wiggly JR's Downtown Girl Russell Do It Center City Hall Dylan Johnson-Country Financial Chamber of Commerce Hillabee Towers Noel Boone George Hardy First Realty Mainstreet Family Care First Insurance Dark Insurance Warren Appliance Grace's Flowers Koon's Korner Larry's General Merchandise & Grocery Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark Jackson Drugs Alfa BB&T Bank Alex City Marine Valley Bank Main Mortgage Pro AllState Daylight Donuts Hometown Pharmacy Allen's Food Mart (Exxon) Karen Channell - State Farm Insurance

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

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

At the Beauty Shop Chuck's Marina Tallapoosa Nutrition Century 21 - Rhonda Gaskins Nannie Bells Cart & Catering TITUS Kim's Corner MILLBROOK/PRATTVILLE Gene Jones Insurance Stone & Britt, LLC Millbrook City Hall Millbrook Chamber 1st Community Bank YMCA - Prattville SLAPOUT Lake Pharmacy Boy's Store Austin Flowers WETUMPKA Wetumpka Chamber Hampton Inn Russell Do It Center City of Wetumpka - Administrative Building Hog Rock BBQ Holley Mart WInd Creek Casino Convenience Store Wind Creek Wetumpka 1st Community Bank Valley Bank Brandt Wright Realty Jackson Thornton BB&T Bank Must Stop Cafe Emerald Mountain Store Bumpers Store Busch's Grocery Wetumpka YMCA Friendship Grocery TALLASSEE Marathon Tallassee Chamber Hilltop Grocery Road Runner Cozumel Tallassee Public Library True Value Hardware Walmart Red Hill Gallery Tallassee Eagle State Farm Get Lake magazine delivered to your mailbox for just $25 per year.

To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

Lighting the Way for the Lake & River Region for more than 125 Years n The Outlook

n The Wetumpka Herald

n The Record

n The Tallassee Tribune

n Lake Magazine

n The Eclectic Observer

n Lake Martin Living

n Elmore County Living

To subscribe call Linda Ewing 256-234-4281 | P.O. Box 999, 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010

42 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 43

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

Payne Bros. Furniture......................................................................... 2 3

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

Prime Home Health.............................................................................. 8

Alexander Landscaping ..................................................................... 2 8

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

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

Rhonda Gaskins, C21 Lake Area Realty................................................ 3

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

River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 4 5

C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 2 8

Romar Construction........................................................................... 4 5

Coosa Valley MRI............................................................................... 4 5

Russell Medical.................................................................................. 4 8

DAVCO Development........................................................................ 4 5

Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................... 5

Four Seasons..................................................................................... 4 5

Singleton Marine............................................................................... 1 3

George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 6

Southern Sash................................................................................... 2 2

Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance............................................... 4 5

Southern Star...................................................................................... 8

Heritage South Credit Union.............................................................. 4 3

Steve Mackey M.D. Dermatology....................................................... 2 3

Jim DeBardelaben................................................................................ 5

Sunrise Docks.................................................................................... 4 4

Jim's Pharmacy.................................................................................. 2 8

Surgical Dermatology Group.............................................................. 2 2

Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance................................................ 4 5

Swearingen Fence.............................................................................. 2 8

Kowaliga Whole Health..................................................................... 4 5

Tallapoosa County Board of Education................................................. 2

Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 17, 45

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

Main Street Alexander City................................................................ 2 3

Those Lake Martin Guys.................................................................... 2 3

National Village................................................................................. 4 7

TowBoatUS........................................................................................ 2 3

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery................................................... 2 8

Viking Axe and Bow............................................................................ 5

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

44 Lake Martin Living

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

334-857-2443 lakemartindock.com

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

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

COOSA VALLEY

MRI

Diagnosing sports injuries with more head-out exams 315 West Hickory St.

INSIDE COOSA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER Sylacauga, Alabama

256-207-2686

harold.cochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

COOSAVALLEYMRI.COM

Lake Martin Living 45

✁

I

may get pushback on this one, but men usually need guidance when it comes to shopping. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are right around the corner, and Santa will soon be making his list and checking it twice. For all the lists and gift guides that will be there, most will be geared towards fathers, children and the rest of the family. Call me crazy, but in my family, historically, the shopping pressure usually fell to the matriarch of the family. My dad was always just as surprised as we were when we opened gifts.

Women are the ones reading blogs and scrolling Instagram, and they tend to have their fingers on the pulse of what is hot for the holidays. We are just really good shoppers.

This gift guide is for the girl Lacey Howell in your life. My ultimate cheat sheet (and I did poll friends) for the men out there. No excuses this year, guys. I am even going to categorize it for you.

Tear this page out, and you too can win Christmas. Get creative and do not forget that sometimes a handwritten card and a few things to open are all a girl needs.

Bonus points: Christmas stockings are also a great opportunity to shine!

Culture Shock

BEAUTY (this one is easy)

✁

1. Walk into an Ulta (Tiger Town) or Sephora in Birmingham. Find a nice sales rep and pull up a photo of your woman on your phone. The sales rep will hook you up with makeup kits. Any Chanel perfume would be a win. Do not get sticker shocked in there.

2. Dyson hair dryer. It is worth it.

3. Support your local masseuses and Shay Donna by purchasing gift cards, which slide great into the stockings.

Also, consider pedicure gift cards.

FITNESS

1. I know Peloton’s commercial last year received negative reviews, but in all honesty, it is the best thing I have ever purchased and my husband loves it, too. Big

46 Lake Martin Living

ticket item, but I believe in investing in your health.

2. Fitness coach or class packages.

3. New tennis shoes.

4. Lululemon workout outfits.

CLOTHING/ACCESSORIES

We can go down the rabbit hole on this one ...

1. Gift cards to local boutiques.

2. Designer purses (check out Saks/Nordstrom Rack).

Keeping your budget in mind, you may need to bring in a friend for a second opinion.

3. Sunglasses.

4. A nice belt (bonus if anything is Gucci).

SHOES

Look in her closet and check her shoe size.

I cannot tell you how many friends’ husbands text me every year asking what size shoe their wives wear. Boots are a safe bet here. Consider Sorel duck boots with fur; Steve Madden booties; Uggs. Fuzzy slides are the new house shoes.

WINE

Always wine. You can wrap individual bottles and pair them with a nice new set of wine glasses. A good bottle of champagne for Christmas morning is always a good idea.

THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS STOCKING

1. If your lady has been extra good this year, then this is the perfect spot for jewelry. If you want to go big, go to Ware’s. If your lady does not have diamond stud earrings (get screwon backs), then start there.

2. This is also where we talk about how you can stuff the entire stocking at the local drugstore. Walk in and start on the far right. Fill up half the stocking with nail items. Essie and OPI nail polish, new files and polish removers. Fresh toothbrushes, a Wet Hair brush, scrunchies, candy and gum.

3. Gift cards can go in the stocking.

Good luck, guys! And happy shopping!

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

We invite you to live a luxurious golf lifestyle at The Yards, our newest community at National Village The Yards, a must-see collection of 21 cottages, is now open at National Village along the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Auburn-Opelika, Alabama. You will fall in love with these new construction homes within a controlled access neighborhood with sidewalks and community gardens designed by WAS. The home plans for the cottages are designed by national award winner Larry Garnett and feature inviting porches. Best of all, The Yards is adjacent to the Marriott at Grand National and all of the resort amenities including spa, pickle ball, tennis, and pool. Schedule a tour by calling 334.749.8165 or visit NationalVillage.com.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT NATIONALVILLAGE.COM OR CALL 334.749.8165

Lake Martin Living 47

Russell Medical offers some of the world’s best health care right here in our little corner of it.

Russell Medical is proud to be a member of the UAB Health System.

Now, in addition to cancer treatment, we are able to bring to bear UAB’s expertise in surgery, urology, eye care, cardiac care, and stroke treatment. You don’t always have to travel for advanced care, we have it right here in our corner of the world.

Visit russellcares.com/UAB for more information.

russellcares.com/UAB