DECEMBER 2017
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L I F E’ S A J O U R N EY.
We’re here for all of it. The path from becoming a woman to motherhood to menopause is complex. As our bodies change, we need help to stay healthy. In our corner of the world, at Russell Medical, we have world class physicians providing top notch care for women of all ages. Exceptional care just around the corner • 256.329.7149 • russellcares.com
Womens Services Physicians Pictured: Katharine R. Cooper, MD • William H. Moore, MD • Davis L. Sullivan, MD • Brian E. Dix, MD
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xperience the charm of fine dining at Itta Bena, tucked away upstairs at Wind Creek Montgomery. Slip on in and enjoy a cool libation with a delta twist. Then savor some gourmet southern cuisine with a taste of Beale Street on the side. From the 8 oz. center cut filet to the shrimp and grits, every dish at Itta Bena is designed to tempt. So come discover this modern day speakeasy and get a taste of something good, plus a little treat on us…it’s our little secret. Present this coupon to your server for a FREE APPETIZER with an entrée purchase. One per person per table. Offer expires 12/28/17. May not be used in conjunction with any other offers.
1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd., Montgomery, AL | WindCreekMontgomery.com | ©2017 Wind Creek Hospitality
DECEMBER 2017
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Letter from the Editor
Staff
A
s a child, I remember being fascinated with a tour of the local newspaper – and even frightened with the noise and pounding vibration of the web press when it was turned on to demonstrate its operation. That field trip made a lasting impression, one that helped to hone my passion and shape my career. So when 40 third and fourth graders from Stephens Elementary School stopped by for a tour of the TPI office one day last month, I was delighted to lead off my part of the tour by showing them Kenneth Boone’s photograph on page 34. Just as I had hoped, the kids were totally creeped out. “It looks like a brain!” they said as some drew closer to the computer screen and others backed away. In any case, I imagine that they will be excited to see the photo again when this issue of Lake magazine hits the racks, and maybe they will remember when they first saw it and will be interested in reading about the Magnificent bryozoan, a 500-million-years-old species that thrives at Lake Martin. Maybe they will read on and visit the photos on pages 48 through 53 of volunteers who took part in this year’s Renew Our Rivers cleanup at the lake. A record number of people collected several tons of trash on the islands, shorelines and roadways, doing their parts in protecting the Treasured status of our own Alabama lake to preserve it for these very school children and the generations beyond them. And perhaps they will continue to flip through the magazine to page 42, where they will discover the 200day journey that a single molecule of water takes from Irwin Shoals to Martin Dam, through the water intake system, past beloved landmarks and finally over the spillway. By then, of course, their short attention spans will have moved them on to other creepy or shiny or bigger-thanlife subjects, but we just might have entertained their creep-senses, planted a seed, prompted their imaginations and made a lasting impression. And that’s the whole point of what we do at Lake magazine.
Betsy Iler, Managing Editor
Chairman KENNETH BOONE
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Publisher STEVE BAKER
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Managing Editor BETSY ILER
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Assistant Magazine Editor AMY PASSARETTI
amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com
Marketing/Advertising Director TIPPY HUNTER
tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.com
EMILY GREGG
emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com
KATIE WESSON
katie.wesson@alexcityoutlook.com
GRANT PETERSON
grant.peterson@alexcityoutlook.com
REBECCA CARLISLE
rebecca.carlisle@alexcityoutlook.com
Circulation Manager DAVID KENDRICK
david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com
Creative Services AUDRA SPEARS
audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com
DARLENE JOHNSON
darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com
HALLIE HOLLOWAY
hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com
Contributors KENNETH BOONE JOHN COLEY JULIE HUDSON CLIFF WILLIAMS LEE WILLIAMS MITCH SNEED
GREG VINSON ROB MCDANIEL DONALD CAMPBELL JOHN THOMPSON MARK GILLILAND JESSE CUNNINGHAM All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of:
256-234-4281 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011
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DECEMBER 2017
On the Cover Follow the adventures of a single drop of water on the 31-mile, 190-day journey from a June thunderstorm in the woods to the spillway of Martin Dam. Along the way, the drop helps a child learn to wakeboard, feeds a fish and aids another in survival; washes trash up on the shore for pick up during the Renew Our Rivers cleanup and takes a tour of Jim Scott's garden. Photo by Kenneth Boone
6400 Highway 63 South, Alexander City, AL 35010 docksunlimitedllc.com (256) 203-8400 Check out our Facebook Page: Docks Unlimited
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LAKE 5
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Contents
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18. WIND CREEK ADVENTURES More outdoor sporting amenities now available at Lake Martin park 22. GIFT GUIDE Find just the right Christmas gift for that special someone this holiday season 24. BUILT FOR A MISSION New Water Farms home serves as a comfort and a call to service 30. HOME-GROWN GOODIES New Water Farms' products support its relationship ministries 38. MAINSTREET Downtown merchants offer a wide variety of options for gift-giving, decorations and holiday treats 42. WHERE WATER GOES Follow the adventures of a single drop of water as it makes the 31-mile journey through Lake Martin 48. RENEW OUR RIVERS RECAP One of the largest volunteer turnouts for the annual Lake Martin water and shoreline trash pick up
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LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES: 9. LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE TO
54. CHEERS!
THE LAKE
57. HOBO
10. LAKE SCENES
58. HEALTHY LIVING
13. WHERE IS LAKE?
61. CHEF'S TABLE
14. LAKE MARTIN EVENTS
62. BIG CATCHES
34. NATURE OF THE LAKE
64. LAKE PROPERTY
40. LAKE Q&A
67. PRO TIP & GOLF NEWS
53. FAB FINDS
e
- edition
Lake magazine also features an online, digital edition, available 24 hours a day, free of charge. This edition is perfect to share with friends and family and provides you complete access to stories, photos and advertisements from anywhere in the world with Internet access. View our digital edition today at www.issuu.com.
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 7
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8 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators Sales Month
October 2017 October 2014 October 2011
Number of sales
Average selling price
Median selling price
Days on the market
Total houses for sale
Inventory/ sales ratio
24 24 15
$476,064 $411,902 $314,900
$428,500 $346,000 $232,500
183 178 198
227 296 352
7.69 12.04 19.65
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 Lake Martin Realty, LLC. (A Russell Lands, Inc. affiliated company.)
Red Ridge Cantata
Red Ridge United Methodist Church will present its Christmas cantata, How Should A King Come, with creative concept and narration by Randy Vader and Rose Aspinall, to include staging, musical and theatrical treatment with video enhancement, on Dec. 17 at 9:30 a.m. under the direction of Dr. Kim Walls. Accompanied by a full orchestra composed of professional, amateur and student musicians, the cantata will feature vocalists are P. J. Armour, George Curley and a trio composed of Cindy Pierce, Tommy Hebson and Delene Cawley. Participants include the choir, children of the church and theatrical cast members from the church. Dramatization will depict scenes of the birth of Jesus Christ, directed by Marian Edell and Sue Mason. Refreshments and coffee will be served following the concert. For information, contact Gerry White at 256-825-5072.
Watch for deer at the lake The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) estimates that 1.5 million drivers collide with a deer each year in the U.S., causing an annual estimated $1 billion in vehicle damage. In addition the IIHS says 186 people died in collisions with deer in 2015, the latest year for which statistics are available. Experts with the IIHS say there are a few ways to improve your odds of avoiding a crash with a deer. Those include: • Slow down and be wary of
deer crossing roadways, especially around dawn and between sunset and midnight. • Stay aware. Make mental notes of when and where you regularly see deer on roads you travel routinely. • Stay alert and use high-beam headlights to increase visibility. • Brake, but don’t swerve, which could risk hitting another vehicle or losing control of your car. • If you see one deer run across the road, expect more to follow. • Buckle up. A seat belt is your best defense in a crash.
Weather Outlook for December December 2017 Forecast
Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the high 50s with average lows in the low mid-to-low 30s and nearly 5 inches of precipitation in the month of December. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be slightly above normal and rainfall will be slightly below normal this month.
Year to Date
Precipitation: 62.79 inches Avg. high temp.: 78.6 Avg. low temp.: 55.2 Average temp.: 66.9
Our Normal December Precipitation: 4.9 inches Avg. high temp.: 57.3 Information from Avg. low temp.: 33.9 the National Average temp.: 45.6 Weather Service.
Lake Levels Last Month Summer: 491MSL Winter: 481 MSL Highest: 490.52 Lowest: 484.08 For up-to-date lake levels, log on to https:// lakes.alabamapower.com.
DECEMBER 2017
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 9
LAKE SCENE
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
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Reader Submissions (1) Brandon Heath teaching Kellan Heath how to fish one morning on Lake Martin. (2) These gorgeous July 4th fireworks were captured by Randy McClendon. (3) Hayden Harper and Davis Fuller play a game at The Landing at Parker's Creek. (4) Cheryl Gainer McCall photographs a lovely pink azalea in bloom in her yard this past spring. (5) Zula relaxes on the deck of the Kelley's home in Emerald Shores. (6) Cathy Hooks and friends take a boat ride on Lake Martin.
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DECEMBER 2017
LAKE SCENE
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
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Reader Submissions (1) This flag waving off Kathy Varnadore's boat was captured during a gorgeous sunset at the end of a fun day on the lake. (2) Kevin Shubird captured a beautiful sunrise on his morning walk at Paradise Point on Lake Martin. (3) The Hobbs family lights laterns each year at their Lake Martin family reunion in memory of those who have passed away. (4) Janey Thorn, daughter of Kelly and Mark Thorn, hangs out with her grandparents Ed and Patsy Cooley on July 4th at The AMP. (5) Rhea McVay took this picture of the sun setting from the Wind Creek State Park campgrounds July 4th weekend. (6) David Blanchard completes a flip on his wakeboard.
DECEMBER 2017
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DECEMBER 2017
WHERE IN THE WORLD IS LAKE?
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
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Reader Submissions (1) Gil Cash, Dwayne Kerley, Steve Kerley and Wayne (Wally) Patterson took Lake magazine on their trip to Muir Woods National Monument. (2) John and Tanya Worthy brought Lake magazine on their Alaskan glacier cruise to Whittier, Alaska. (3) Ann Tate and her grandson Grayson Weithoner took Lake Martin Living on a trip to Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York City during July 4th. They chose to take a picture in front of the 9/11 Memorial's twin reflecting pools in New York City. (4) Mike and Cathy Parker and Christine and Donald Neese took Lake magazine on their trip to Soo Locks at Sault Ste Marie, Michigan. (5) Ann and Billy Harrison visited with former CACC golfer David Parlane and his father Alastair at St. Andrews, Scotland, the Old Course, with Lake magazine in September.
DECEMBER 2017
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Dec. 3 Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree
With a cast of 30, the play, written by Norman C. Ahern and Yvonne Ahern, is set in the early 1900s. Performances will be held at the BRHS Auditorium at 7 p.m. on Friday MainStreet Alexander City is hosting a Christmas event and Saturday. A matinee also will be staged at 2 p.m. downtown from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Alex City Rocks will be Tickets are $12 for adults; $7 at Broad Street Plaza painting for students and are available rocks, there will be free face CALENDAR OF EVENTS through through the ACT II painting, hot chocolate will website at www.act2fineartscenbe available from The Coffee ter.com. WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN Corner and Christmas carolers from ACT II will be entertaining us with holiday Dec. 16 tunes. All are encouraged Jingle Jump to wear their tacky sweatfor Camp ASCCA ers, and there will be speThe third annual Jingle cial appearances by some Jump event at the Camp favorite Christmas charASCCA swimming pool acters. For information, will raise money for the call MainStreet Executive ASCCA Campership Director Bre Smith at Fund. The goal for each 256-329-9227. individual is to raise $725 through personal fundraisWritten by Norman C. Ahern Jr. & Yvonne Ahern Dec. 4 ing accounts, and once the goal is reached, parHometown PERFORMANCES ticipants will jump into Christmas Parade the chilly pool water. For Dec. 15 Thousands of spectainformation, contact Dana tors line Alexander City's 7 P.M. Rickman at 256-825streets from Comer Street, Dec. 16 9226. down Cherokee Road past 2 P.M. & 7 P.M. the high school and up Church Street through the Jan. 13 Benjamin Russell roundabout to the bottom High School Auditorium YP Polar Plunge of the hill at Strand Park Alexander City The Lake Martin Young to see Santa and Mrs. Professionals will host Produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Service, Inc., Englewood, Colorado Claus arrive in town in its third annual Polar style. The parade begins Plunge at Kowaliga to at 6 p.m., but arrive early to get a good spot. support Lake Martin Resource Association. Hosted by USAmeriBank, the doors open at 10 a.m., and the fun continues until 4 p.m. Entry fee is $20, which includes tickets Dec. 9 to Kowaliga’s special food stations, live music and plenty Christmas in the Park This annual event from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Charles E. of space for kids to play outside. Both of Kowaliga’s indoor cash bars will be open, and the plunge into Lake Martin Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City includes carriage rides, happens at noon. This year’s event will include a $100 Christmas music, train rides and other activities for the “Dash for the Cash” event swimming out to a buoy and kids, as well as arts and crafts and carolers. back. Prizes also awarded for best Polar Plunge costume.
Rented Christmas
Dec. 10 Dadeville Christmas Parade
Season-Long Events
The Friends of Dadeville, along with the Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce, are co-sponsoring the 4th Annual Spirit of a Hometown Christmas Parade from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Dadeville. This event will feature a variety of floats, arts and crafts booths, children’s activities, food and Santa Claus. To participate or for more information, please contact the chamber at 256-825-4019.
Millerville Trade Day
Dec. 15-16 Rented Christmas
Alabama Wildlife Federation Naturalist Hikes
Alexander City Theatre II will present a heartwarming Christmas story of a lonely businessman who rents a Christmas celebration that includes five children and a wife. 14 LAKE
Bibb Graves School on Highway 9 hosts this trade day on the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Find books, toys, models, coins, lamps, original artwork, jewelry, clothing, antiques, glassware, quilts, home decor and more. Refreshments available.
Every Tuesday and Friday, from 10 a.m. until noon, hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced Alabama Nature Center naturalist by your side. Learn how
DECEMBER 2017
to bird or identify plants and animals; splash through the creek; or catch insects in the meadow. General admission applies and is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. The Alabama Nature Center is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Visit alabamawildlife.org to check holiday closings.
The Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony on Lake Martin exhibit is on display all year long at the Alexander City Board of Education building, located at 375 Lee St.
$20 on the 20th
The Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce is asking our community to "Spend $20 on the 20th" of each month to help the local economy.
Alabama Wildlife Federation Creature Feature
Every Monday and Wednesday, from 3:30 p.m. until 4 p.m., come learn about Alabama’s woods, water and wildlife. Get up close and personal with some of the creatures you may find in your own backyard, and even some you may have never heard of. General admission applies and is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. The Alabama Nature Center is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Visit www.alabamawildlife.org to check holiday closings.
Library Storytime in Dadeville
Storytime for children ages 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. and offers kid-friendly movies on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m.
Gamers’ Club
Adelia M. Russell Library hosts kids ages 12 to 17 in the conference room on Fridays after school until 4:30 p.m. Bring handheld games or games from home (no games rated M allowed). Participants should be picked up by 4:30 p.m. For information, call 256-329-6796.
Ladies’ Book Club
Ladies 18 years of age and older are invited to participate in the club at Adelia M. Russell Library on the last Thursday of every month. Meet in the conference room at 4 p.m. Call the library at 256-234-4644 for each month’s book title.
Electronics Recycling
The City of Alexander City Public Works Department hosts an electronics recycling event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Items accepted include computers, computer mouse, keyboards, modems or routers, CD and DVD players, power supplies, PC mix systems, home or cell phones, printers or copiers, mainframe servers, audio/video adapters, laptop chargers, cable boxes, nickel cadmium or lithium ion batteries and flat screen monitors and televisions. CRT monitors and televisions are no longer accepted. For more information, call the Alexander City Public Works Department at 256-409-2020.
Santuck Flea Market
Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit
The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month, except January and February, and is located at 7300 Central Plank Rd., Highway 9 in Wetumpka.
Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store
Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children's Hospital. For more information, call 334-857-2008.
Memory Makers Quilt Guild
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.
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. For subject, dates and times, check the upcoming events at russelllandsonlakemartin.com/blog/events or tap events on the Russell Lands app.
Real Island Supper
The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month (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. Contact Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724 for more information.
Amateur Radio Club
The Lake Martin Area Amateur Radio Club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the terminal building at the Thomas C. Russell Field Airport (Alexander City Airport) with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. For more information, contact Michael Courtney (256-825-7766) or Mike Smith (256-750-5710).
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 15
Antique Car Cruise-in
On the first Saturday of each month, car enthusiasts cruise into Arby’s parking lot on Highway 280 in Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Join the fun and enjoy an era of classic cars and classic music.
Charity Bingo
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.
Music at The Equality Performing Arts Center
The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the second and fourth Friday nights of each month at 6:30 p.m. on Alabama Highway 9 in Equality. Country/ Western, bluegrass, Southern gospel and instrumental music featured. For more information, contact Wayne Glenn at 334-541-3302.
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DECEMBER 2017
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LAKE 17
Wind Creek's aerial and zip line tours will be operational next spring
Wind Creek Adventures Sporting amenities now available at Lake Martin park STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS & MITCH SNEED
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DECEMBER 2017
The new archery park gives youth the opportunity to practice shooting skills
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Wind Creek State Park is expanding its services to offer more attractions for visitors of all ages to engage the community in outdoor activities. The latest section of the park to open is the 50-target archery park, which was a collaborative effort including multiple agencies and donations. “What a pleasure it is to be a part of something like this. It really shows what we are all about. Whenever we can partner to bring a new recreational feature to a park it’s really an exciting thing, and this is one of the most impressive of all we have here in the state,” said Greg Lein, Alabama State Parks director. According to Shane Harris, Tallapoosa County Extension coordinator, the project came to fruition just 10 months after its initial conception. Harris and others at the Extension office had some conversations with officials at Wind Creek State Park about conducting archery education there, and the two decided to work together to make it happen. “We decided the need was there to put in an archery park and offer some of these programs. Wind Creek Superintendent Bruce Adams and others at the state level were open to the idea, so we got the ball rolling. We saw the opportunity to expand attractions at Wind Creek, and we didn’t have anything like this in our vicinity,” said Harris. At the Tallapoosa County 4-H level, which educates children ages 9-18 about subjects ranging from traditional agriculture to robotics, natural resources and the arts, nearly 1,500 children are members. One of the programs offered is shooting sports, which the kids seem to really enjoy, said Harris. “We had gotten trained to teach an archery program and had several volunteers certified over the last year. We were just becoming competent enough to offer it to our 4-Hers,” Harris added. The opening of this archery park makes Wind Creek State Park the 13th facility in the Alabama State Parks system to offer this service. Natural Resources’ Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries helped with the funding through license sales and federally matched Pittman-Robertson Act funding. The range is open to both youth and adults, with targets at 5-yard increments. The adult range is open
to bow hunters for skill practice, and targets are set up beginning at 20 yards. The youth portion has targets at 5-, 10- and 15-yard ranges, allowing a diverse group of community members to use the facility. “We’ve gotten some great feedback. A lot of people are really excited to see this happen. It’s something for the whole community to utilize, especially for those either working on their current skills or for future bow hunters to start practicing,” said Harris. The future goal is to expand the park and hopefully include more amenities, such as a tower to allow bow hunters to replicate shooting down at a target from a tree, Harris added. For the Extension office, the focus remains on youth efforts to begin basic target building. “We’re hoping with growing interest that we could offer archery clubs and programs and maybe start an archery team next year. We want to engage the interest in shooting skills, and archery is a good way for them to start,” said Harris. The project came out better than expected, considering what the ground and appointed area looked like previous to fixing it up, he added. “We started with roughed up ground, poor drainage and scraggly trees, but the area now looks really nice. We’re very appreciative to all of our supporters, donors and volunteers donating their time and money to make it a success,” Harris added. The park will be open year-round during Wind Creek State Park’s normal hours and regular entry fees will still apply. For those under the age of 16, or over the age of 65, the archery facility will be free to use. Any visitor between the ages of 16 and 64 must obtain a hunting license, Wildlife Management Area license or Wildlife Heritage license to use the range. For adventure seekers, Wind Creek State Park also has completed its Aerial and Zip Line tours as a partnership between the Alabama State Parks System; Historic Banning Mills, a 501(c)(3) conservation center in Banning, Georgia; and Adventure Park Systems of Whitesburg, Georgia. The one- to two-hour tour features 10 zip lines and five skywalks with incredible views of the lake and scenes of nature. Heights range from 20 to 70 feet off the ground and span a distance of 250 to 600 feet. Participants must wear the provided safety harnesses that remain locked to a cable system. Tours also are accompanied by one to two staff members for the entirety of the tour. Last month, Wind Creek had its soft opening of the canopy tours, but the zip line will not be operational and open to the public until spring. Donna Holder with Banning Mills helped with the set up of Wind Creek’s zip line course and said the company is excited to have the network up and running. “We had kind of a soft opening for us here in the fall,” Holder said. “But we were done and wanted to start to let people experience it and see what it’s all about before the big kickoff next spring. We think it will be a great addition to the park amenities.”
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 19
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LAKE 21
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DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 23
Built for a Mission New Water Farms home serves as a comfort and a call to service STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
A late afternoon sun shines on the Covingtons' lake view
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DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 25
T
The pastoral view from Tim and Betsy Covington’s porch at Lake Martin’s New Water Farms tells a story like no other on Lake Martin. For the Covingtons, it is a tale of inspiration, service, stewardship and a sense of mission to which they are so strongly dedicated that they built a house on a lakeside hill to apply themselves to it. Texas natives, the Covingtons learned about New Water Farms through a network of medical mission acquaintances, and they began volunteering there several years ago. Tim Covington, a former pharmacy professor at Samford University, used to raise roses at his Birmingham home, and he transferred his love for landscaping and yard work to the blackberry fields and vegetable gardens at the Dadeville property. Along with his wife Betsy, he enthusiastically worked the land and the harvest to further New Water’s mission-training and community-building goals. He later was named to the New Water board of directors. So when Steve Duncan – a Birmingham businessman, builder and fellow board member – proposed a plan to build homes adjacent to the farm, the Covingtons were all-in. As owner of the land, New Water received the revenues from the lot sales, and as the designated homebuilder for the neighborhood, Duncan and his wife Sherry donated the whole of their profits to the organization. The neighborhood development is projected to raise more than $800,000 for New Water Ministries, a 501(c)3 dedicated to developing discipleship, renewing relationships with creation and using those skills to help others.
Their lake home is a modified Moss Creek design that reflects the Covingtons’ affinity for the scope of the New Water project. The contemporary craftsman style and personal details incorporate natural elements from the farm, as well as reflections of their faith and their family. In the great room, Betsy Covington – an artist and professional ‘fluffer’ – proposed a cost-effective shiplap treatment; instead of lining the entire surface of the 22-foot living-space walls, the butted board paneling stops 6 inches short of the tops of the 8-foot doorjambs. The resulting effect creates a sense of intimacy and warmth. Above the shiplap trim, Covington chose bare bulb fixtures in wire cage sconces to blend the craftsman feel of the room with the contemporary drywall finish on the upper walls and ceiling vault. The simple whitewash on the boards emphasizes the casual tone of life at Lake Martin and reflects the natural light that spills through the upper windows. The fireplace façade is finished with crosscut hewn oak, which further connects the interior with nature. For Christmas, Covington added simple flocked trees to the side of the hearth and gave a grapevine wreath – made by her father 30 years ago – the place of honor over the mantel. “At home in Birmingham, I usually go more glitzy with the Christmas decorations, but this setting really calls for using natural elements, things like pinecones and fresh greens and things from the farm,” she said. The couple converted a downstairs guestroom into a master to keep their living on one floor, she said, and The great room fireplace is finished in crosscut hewn oak
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A prism chandelier dresses up the craftsman-style dining alcove
Accent walls make the bedrooms pop
A trio of trees lends a touch of Chrismas to a catch-all space
The upstairs master bath includes a 6-foot soaking tub
An upstairs den provides another living space for the grandchildren
Christmas decorations are simple and understated at this New Water home
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Though compact, the kitchen is efficient and offers all the preparation space the Covingtons need at the lake
The craftsman cottage design is right at home in the New Water neighborhood
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DECEMBER 2017
Betsy Covington's longhorn painting brings a little bit of Texas to the lake
she carried the gray and white tones throughout the three-bedroom, three-bath home, adding small splashes of bright colors to make each room smile. The dining area seats six comfortably, but Covingtons’ furniture arrangements in the great room and on the spacious porch allow the flexibility to accommodate more for large gatherings of friends and family. Covington designed a bright kitchen area with a yellow island to complement the slate gray Shaker cabinets, stainless appliances and unique flowing pattern of the countertop granite. “I liked the movement in the granite,” she said. “The kitchen is small, but it’s adequate for the lake.” She dressed up the kitchen for the season with a long narrow tray filled with sprigs of holly, berries, small pinecones and hickory nuts, but her seasonal displays do not displace the personal artwork with which the Covingtons have decorated their home. The art, much of it oils on canvas that The lakeside deck is the Covington Covingtons' favorite painted in her place to start and end loft studio – a the day well-lit corner at the top of the stairs – is an expression of that which is dear to the couple and includes pictures of the beloved Texas longhorn, as well as colorful paintings of blackberries and other New Water produce. The couple, married 52 years, still resides full time in Birmingham where Tim operates the company he founded when he left Samford 10 years ago. They spend weekends at the lake in the off-season – and weekdays during the farm’s busy times or when their children and grandchildren visit from Atlanta, Georgia, and Greenville, South Carolina. To afford more privacy for the extended family, Duncan replaced the plan’s loft rail with three-quarterheight walls that retain the openness of the original design but still allow the natural light to fill the space where the family can gather to relax, watch television and play games. Duncan economized the space of the upstairs mechanical room to accommodate a cozy bunkroom with a lake view for the Covingtons’ grandsons, and their daughter and her family can spread out in the larger upstairs master.
Here, as in other rooms throughout the home, Covington brought simple, sentimental furnishings from their Birmingham home, especially pieces that emphasize the vertical aspect of the home to make the spaces feel big. Tall, narrow nightstands and her grandfather’s oak rocking chair, along with accent walls that feature raw wood, tone down the contemporary design elements and elevate the cabin feel. But the real showcase in the upstairs master is the picturesque lakeside view. “The house is at the top of the hill, so it already has a view of the farm, the lake and the neighborhood, but this second-floor view takes it up even higher,” Duncan said. “It looks like Napa Valley – and Tahoe.” The development project plan included five couples – named the Kingdom Builders 5 – that drew straws for the home sites they purchased. The deeded lots line the southern and eastern rim of the farm and look out on the treeless meadow that rolls to the lake. “We got the best lot,” Tim said humbly, but with a wide grin he added, “Sometimes, I almost feel bad about it.” The rolling meadow below the Covingtons’ home eventually will include a trellised blackberry field, a waterfall and a swimming pool, as well as a common park area. One of the Covingtons’ favorite places is an entry level covered deck that overlooks the rolling hillside, farm and lake. The 600-square-foot porch includes two sitting areas – one outside the great room and other outside the downstairs master. They like to open the French doors onto the deck to fill the home with fresh air and take advantage of the seemingly ever-present breeze. They have extended the porch season by adding a portable fire pit, where they love to have their morning coffee or share an evening glass of wine while they take in the view and discuss the work of the day and its relativity to their servant call at New Water Farms. For more information about New Water Ministries, see the article on page 30 of this issue of Lake magazine, visit newwater.com, email info@newwater.com or drive out to the farm at 460 Civitan Rd., Dadeville.
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 29
Clockwise from above: A bent metal Nativity sets the tone at New Water's lodge entry; blackberry and blueberry preserves from the farms' own bushes help to fund programs and discipleship training; New Water's raw, unfiltered honey is popular, as well; the pickle product was the happy accident of too many cucumbers; the bounty welcomes visitors at the lodge; sweet syrups and all of the New Water products are available in gift boxes on the website at newwater.com.
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Grown for
T
Goodness
New Water Farms' products support its relationship ministries
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
The pantry shelves at New Water Farms are ready for the season’s gift-giving, as they are laden with jars of preserves, jam, honey, coffee, baked goods and hand-crafted gardening tools. The bounty generates roughly half of the farms’ operating budget, but more than that, said board member and volunteer Robert Brandon, it plays an integral role in New Water’s mission. Founded shortly after the April 2011 tornadoes wreaked havoc on the site once known at Lake Martin as Camp Civitan, New Water Farms is a 501(c)3 Christian ministry that trains disciples, builds community and renews relationships through its farm program, retreats and events, artisan workshops and worship opportunities. The farm hosts church retreats, business meetings, art events, community events, weddings, field trips for school children and even the occasional sporting event – all to build relationships and practice stewardship of the Earth in a biblical way, Brandon explained. “It’s all to build relationships, have conversations and restore relationships with the ground that were severed in Genesis, chapter three. Toil becomes joyful again,” he said. Through the process of planting, growing and harvesting, relationships with the ground are cultivated, and the end products add value greater than the funds they generate, he explained. “It presents opportunities to integrate into the faith component of our lives, to be inspired and rejuvenated. The products help with the branding of our mission of training and inspiring people for kingdom work.” New Water employs a handful of staff that organizes and manages the various activities at the farm, but much of the work is done with the help of volunteers who till the ground, plant, weed, nurture and harvest the crops. Volunteers also make the jams, pickles, syrups and other products that are sold through the New Water website, at local farmers’ markets and at Catherine’s Market at Russell Crossroads. In addition, New Water Ministries hosts relationship-building activities – including marriage retreats, artisan workshops and a community supported agriculture program – and during the lake season holds worship services in a recently completed lakeside chapel. Quarterly Volunteer Days offer a morning of joyful toil, volunteers are treated to a New Water lunch. To be part of the mission and ministry of New Water, schedule an event or learn more about the programs, contact Brandon at 205-948-7716.
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LAKE 33
What the
NATURE OF THE LAKE BY KENNETH BOONE
The Magnificent bryozoan is one of the creepiest creatures at the lake
34 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
heck is that? Creepy Lake Martin creature is 500 million years old
S
Some animals are universally branded as “creepy.” That’s certainly the case with the Magnificent bryozoan, which looks a lot like a translucent star of the classic 1958 horror movie aptly named The Blob. (The original blob was red.) If you haven’t seen The Blob, just imagine a misshapen brain. Upping the creep factor is that this animal – or more properly these animals – live underwater and often appear as round, strange, hard-to-make-out shapes beneath the surface. And they tend to be most obvious around Halloween in this part of the country. But in fact, there’s nothing really creepy about the Magnificent bryozoan except its looks. Bryozoans have been hanging around on Earth for quite some time: 500 million years. That’s roughly 495 million years longer than humans, give or take a million or two. Scientists call the bryozoan colony pictured here Pectinatella magnifica. Those who know about it – and most people, even those who live on Lake Martin, apparently do not – call it Magnificent bryozoan, a fancy name for a very basic life form. Think of Magnificent bryozoan as a gelatinous condo. This structure is comprised of a large number of small invertebrate creatures living together in a roundish-shaped colony, much like the saltwater brain corals; however, bryozoans are not related to corals, though they do occupy a similar niche in the marine environment. When you hold a Magnificent bryozoan, it feels like dense, heavy gelatin. The surface of the colony is divided into a number of “rosettes” that are quite visible to the naked eye and make it look brain-like. Magnificent bryo-
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LAKE 35
A colony includes millions of individual Magnificent bryozoan
zoan colonies can appear translucent white, but more often, they have a translucent brown color, and the colony is covered with a slimy coating. If you bring it out of the water, it will likely smell very fishy. Each rosette is made up of 10-18 individuals, which are hard to see without magnification. The colony breaks easily into smaller pieces, but it’s more substantial than you might think. When dropped back into the water, a Magnificent bryozoan colony is slightly buoyant and will likely float, or at least hover in mid-water, until currents push it up against the bank. The colony is made up mostly of water – close to 99 percent water. Most of the time, Magnificent bryozoan colonies start on a branch or pipe or some other submerged object, and they grow out to several feet in diameter. This has caused problems where the colony starts near the opening of a water intake pipe and eventually chokes off the water flow. Upping the creep factor a bit is the fact that colonies have been known to move over short distances by creeping along the structure to which they are attached. These animals were once found only in warm, shady, slow-moving bodies of water east of the Mississippi River; however, they now have been spotted in the western states and in Europe, Canada and Asia. Outside of their native geography, they are sometimes considered an invasive species. Magnificent bryozoan are ancient, primitive and
The colonies look like blobs under the water
36 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
simple animals. Individuals are called zooids. Each is shaped like a cup, with tiny tentacles on the cup’s rim. The tentacles are covered in hair-like structures called cilia, which collect free-floating phytoplankton and bring them into the cup, where they are consumed. These animals can reproduce sexually and without the help of a partner by basically cloning itself. But when the water temperature drops below 60 degrees, the colony disintegrates, the hard seedlike reproductive structures called “statoblasts” are released into the water. These free-floating statoblasts have tiny hooks that allow them to latch onto other objects or even birds and animals, which in turn can transfer the animals to new bodies of water. The statoblasts can survive drying and freezing in a dormant state until they are deposited into water and the temperature warms enough for the zooids to hatch out and begin new colonies. There are 19 recognized species of freshwater bryozoan species, and the Magnificent bryozoan forms the largest colonies of all. These animals are completely harmless to people – forget about The Blob – and some saltwater species are even suspected to have properties that could help fight cancer in humans. So if you see a translucent brown blob around the edge of the lake, don’t get too creeped out.
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 37
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Lake Q&A:
Santa & Mrs. Claus Laurie and Bill Kinnebrew
40 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
How did you first hear about Lake Martin?
Santa: Dad found a lot that we still have today; he brought us down here. One day he was out fishing with a buddy on the lake and found a ‘For Sale by Owner’ sign. It was a week before my parent’s 25th wedding anniversary, and he did not think Mom would like this old run-down cabin. When she saw it, she thought it was so cute, and so he said, “why don’t we buy it?” Dad and I framed it all ourselves. They put the roof on it – we were contractors – in a year, it was dried in, so we could stay in it. Mrs. Claus: I was engaged to another guy from Birmingham, and his family was building a Lake Martin cabin. It was actually just one slough away from our current slough.
What did you find of interest about the lake when you first heard of it?
Mrs. Claus: It was 1980, and the lake had very few people and houses. That was the most wonderful thing. There was this wonderful, wide, clean lake. How beautiful the lake was. The north end of the lake was almost empty, and it was gorgeous.
Where do you live on the lake, and why did you choose that location?
Santa: We live in Jacksons Gap in the Bay Pines area because there are more full-time residents than the other side. Part of a down payment for our current lot was from a car wreck with a horse that totaled the car. It paid for half the deeded lot, and we bought it for a wonderful price. We built it ourselves – the additions and everything – and we still have it today.
How long have you been playing the roles of Santa and Mrs. Claus?
Mrs. Claus: We have been doing this for seven years exactly. Santa: Nov. 18 was the very first Santa Claus appearance. She always remembers because it’s her birthday.
How did you get started with that?
Santa: About two or three years before that, it started happening. I always had a very groomed beard, and it got white. So when we were out at dinner, especially around Christmas, people would always come up and say, “You’re Santa!” Both adults and kids thought that. So one day during dinner, Laurie and her friend Cindy decided they were just going to make me a suit. Laurie said, “Just try it, and if you don’t like it, then that’s OK.” Mrs. Claus: People like to see the same Santa, so I’ve tweaked his costumes and made him two suits when he started having a lot of events, but his look has not really changed drastically at all.
What kind of events do you attend as Santa, and how often do you work?
Santa: This year, starting the first Sunday of Thanksgiving, we only have two or three open spots left that we are not booked doing something. Some weekends, we start at 7 a.m. and don’t end until 10 p.m. We do a range of things, including grown-up parties or corporate parties for mingling. Maybe half are home visits where we take pictures with families. We’ve done parades. This year we’re doing our first-ever wedding reception; that’s going to be a lot of fun. We do two or three
schools; I always go back to one small, specific special needs class with kids aged 5-10. We only end up doing about half of our events together. We have a wonderful time with all the families, not just the children. When we’re out in public, going from event to event, when someone spots you, even adult faces, they look like they’ve become 6 years old again.
What is your favorite part of the job?
Santa: The most memorable times are always hospital visits. Mrs. Claus: For me, the most memorable was at a Camp Smile-a-Mile. There was a whole family with one little girl, who walked up, and they took a family picture. When Santa asked, “What do you want for Christmas?” this little girl just turned her face up to him and said, “I want to be able to see again.” What do you say to that? We never promise kids anything. Santa just said, “We’re going to see what we can do about that.” It’s difficult to find the words to say; that was a hard one. Oftentimes, we visit with babies that will not live past a Christmas and parents who want a photo with Santa. The families are so appreciative, and you’re so heartbroken and heartwarmed at the same time. It’s odd where this job takes you, but we get as much joy at doing this as we give to children.
Did you buy your outfits or make them?
Santa: Laurie made all the suits and embroidered crosses on them because the real Christmas is about Christians and the birth of Christ. I’ve been to a Santa convention before. That was scary. 250 men that look just like me. Mrs. Claus: You forget all the ways, shapes and forms Santa comes in. I think the reason Bill is so successful with the children is he’s not short, but not real tall, not over powering. He doesn’t have a deep voice. He has a kind gentle face. He’s the warm and fuzzy Santa. We’ve learned over the years that kids look at anyone in a red suit and start screaming. A lot of children will come to me because I am more comfortable, and we always carry toys with us. One funny example is when there was this 3-year-old boy, and when Santa peered around the corner, he just cried. So we sat down and bawled with him, and we got our picture taken that way.
How long have you been married and how did you meet? Mrs. Claus: We’ve been married for 35 years. One of his closest friends, Joey, was the brother of one of my closest friends, and they introduced us. The Cicios are still very good friends of ours. I was living in Birmingham and going to college at the time, and I was engaged to another man. Santa: Well now, we first met when you came to my Halloween party as Joey’s date.
What do you do in the off-season (when it’s not Christmastime)?
Santa: I’ve been a building contractor since the mid 1970s. I primarily built new homes until the last recession; and then, I became remodeler. Now, I would say it’s about 50/50 on new homes and remodeling. The majority are previous customers or friends of theirs.
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 41
Where Water Goes Follow a single drop of water on its 31-mile journey through Lake Martin STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
A single drop contains 1.7 sextillion water molecules
42 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
A
A single drop of rain. Perhaps it fell from the sky during a brief June thunderstorm and landed on a pine tree at the edge of the lake, but it didn’t stay there long. In a matter of minutes, it would have picked up a tiny grain of pollen or a spec of dirt as it rolled along the spine of a pine needle and hung at the sharp, spikey end before it splashed to the forest floor, its sixmonth adventure at Lake Martin begun. The ground already saturated with the drops that fell before it, this single drop of water – containing 1.7 sextillion molecules of hydrogen and oxygen – might have rolled across the forest floor, dissolving minerals and chemicals and picking up organic debris – baggage for the 31-mile journey to Martin Dam. Yielding to the pull of gravity, this single drop of water sought the low points of the land, joining other drops of water on their way to some small creek or forest stream. The forest floor is the best filtration system, said Lake Martin’s Eric Reutebuch, the Lake Watch Lake Martin president who recently retired from the directorship of Auburn University’s Alabama Water Watch. “The healthy, mature forest gets clean water that gets
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 43
The drop of water would have tumbled over rocks in the shallow upper reaches of Lake Martin
44 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
About 10 million gallons of water are pumped daily from Lake Martin to provide clean drinking water to local homes and businesses
clean water to the river. Rain that falls, say, in the suburbs, lands on impervious surfaces, like a metal roof. None of that water is absorbed into the ground water, so that greatly increases the volume of the flow of the runoff. It has more erosion action because there’s more of it. It picks up antifreeze and oil that maybe has leaked from automobiles and lawn chemicals. Water dissolves those chemicals, which are suspended and transported to the river,” Reutebuch explained. “Here at Lake Martin, we are very fortunate that the watershed upstream is a healthy one.” As the stream grew, the drop of water would have bubbled over rocks to mingle with plankton, tiny organisms that live in open water and have little or no control over where they go. The phytoplankton generates oxygen through photosynthesis, and the zooplankton provides nutrients to small fish and aquatic insects. One hungry baitfish could have taken a great gulp and forced the drop of water through its gills to exchange the dissolved oxygen it carried with carbon dioxide. Having escaped from its side trip through the innards of the fish, the drop of water would have turned and tumbled past Horseshoe Bend National Military Park to Irwin Shoals in just a matter of days. In June, Irwin Shoals would have exploded with breathtaking elegance of Cahaba lilies in bloom. The endemic lily grows from a bulb lodged between the rocks in the moving water. The single drop would have tumbled over, under and between the rocks, roots and stems as the volume of water flowed through the rocky shoals and the DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 45
river widened. It might have caught the splash of a passing kayak and hitched a ride on the bow of the boat for a few hours, feeling the thrill of the summer wind as the kayak dipped and turned in the shallow river. A short distance past the old railroad trestle, the drop might have taken another – much longer – side trip. Caught up in Alexander City’s water intake pipes and pumped to A side trip the treatment plant on through Jim Scott's garden the hill above River would include North Marina, the drop views of showy of water would have flowers and joined some 10 million waterfalls gallons of water that are pumped daily into an intake basin to begin a cleaning process that ends who-knows-where; perhaps in a dishwasher in Dadeville, an icemaker at Ocie & Belle’s or (dare to say it) a toilet in Jacksons Gap. With luck, at the end of its household use, the drop of water could have made its way down a drain and into a maze of underground pipes that lead to the wastewater treatment plant and, after a thorough cleaning, back into the lake – downstream, of course. It could have been two months into its journey by the time it wound past Wind Creek State Park, where the real fun finally began. Churned up in the propeller of a high-powered bass boat during a fishing tournament, the drop of water might have played keep away with a chartreuse lure and barely escaped capture. It could have been drawn into the ballast of a wake boat where its weight and position lent just the right pull to get an 8-year-old kid up on the board for the first time. No better way to spend an afternoon at the lake. On Labor Day, the drop of water would have stopped at Peanut Point and listened to the music and laughter coming from Big Beach across the way. But with the start of football season, the boat traffic would have ebbed, and the drop of water would have flowed more smoothly, its journey less thrilling with fewer people on the water. As the water temperatures cooled and turned over in late summer and early autumn, the dissolved oxygen content in the water would drop. In this unsteady time, it might have found itself suspended between the tempera46 LAKE
ture layers, sharing its position with fish struggling to filter enough oxygen through their gills to survive. To help a big striper live another day, the drop of water might have slipped into the great fish's mouth, where it was forced through the gills and surrendered the small amount of dissolved oxygen it had carried so far on the journey. As autumn came to Lake Martin halfway through October, the drop of water would have reflected the bright colors of the shoreline foliage as it flowed gently around Midway Island. By early November, the lake level would have fallen considerably, the volunteers could have been seen picking up trash on the shoreline. As the drop of water slipped past the mouth of Blue Creek, it might have lent the power of countless trillions of gallons of water behind it to push a plastic bottle to the surface, where those volunteers could add it to the tons of trash collected this year. In the next few days, the drop might have slipped by the Chimney Rock jumping spot at Acapulco Island, undisturbed and unnoticed since the summer crowds had gone. But at the end of the month, it might have found one last thrill in the rooster tail of a brand new personal watercraft driven by a gorgeous model during a photoshoot for the January issue of Lake magazine. And just after Thanksgiving, the drop of water might have slipped past the pump into Jim Scott’s garden pools, under rock bridges and over waterfalls that hide entrances to secret rooms. Though it might have lingered indefinitely in this always-beautiful garden on Lake Martin’s southeastern bank, eventually, the single drop of water would have flowed back to the lake. Perhaps it enjoyed a leisurely cruise across the river to the banks of Goat Island, quiet now while the goats wintered inland. And then, on the Eve of Christmas, about 190 days since it fell from the sky upstream, the drop of water would have slipped over Martin Dam’s spillway with a sigh and a long farewell as it dropped into Yates Lake and another adventure on its way to the sea.
DECEMBER 2017
After about 190 days, the drop of water would have slipped over the spillway, its adventures on Lake Martin complete
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 47
Thanks to this year's Dear Editor: Thanks to everyone who played a role in the annual LMRA Renew our Rivers Lake Martin clean-up held on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 3 and 4. More than 350 volunteers participated in this annual event and removed 11 tons of trash. The volunteers filled dumpsters located at Wind Creek State Park, Kowaliga Boat Ramp, Union Boat Ramp and Real Island Marina with trash that was picked up from Lake Martin shorelines and adjacent roadsides. More than 30 tires and a 12-volt battery were included in the vast collection. A very hardworking team concentrated on shoreline in the Sturdivant community between the Highway 280 Bridge and the railroad trestle and filled approximately 450 large bags with trash that had accumulated over many years. Boats provided by LMRA, Alabama Power Company, TowBoat Lake Martin and Lake Martin Dock Company loaded the heavy bags and John Thompson several large pieces and Mike Clelland of beaded Styrofoam that were found and transported them to the Wind Creek State Park Marina, where they were off-loaded into the dumpsters by a wonderful team of park associates that included Park Manager Bruce Adams. Additionally, the Lake Martin Dock Company removed numerous large items, including an abandoned pedal boat that was riddled with bullet holes from an island near Parker Creek. On Saturday, Wind Creek State Park was filled with Boy Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, Naval ROTC cadets, as well as third and fourth grade students from Stephens Elementary who were accompanied by art teacher Debra Griffith. These youngsters, armed with bags and orange trash pickers, picked up litter throughout the park, 48 LAKE
stopping periodically to enjoy the park’s attractive playground. There was also a large amount of trash removed from adjacent roadways by the Russell Lands On Lake Martin associates who cleaned from Our Town to the Kowaliga Bridge. Volunteers from Lake Martin Dock Company cleaned from Highway 229 north to the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store. Coven Abbett Highway was cleaned from Highway 280 to Highway 63 by 22 volunteers from the Auburn-Opelika area as part of the Bradford Reprieve Group. In addition, 24 residents in the Real Island area gathered at the Volunteer Fire Department and cleaned roadsides throughout the community. The Real Island Marina provided a dumpster for disposal of the bagged trash. The event concluded on Saturday at 12 p.m. and was followed by a delicious hot dog cookout, courtesy of Alabama Power Company Manager Marshall Griffin and his great crew. In addition, snacks and drinks were provided by Alabama Power Shoreline Management’s Rhett Hanks and Clint McKelvey. This was the 11th Annual LMRA Renew our Rivers Lake Martin cleanup, and each year, the numbers of volunteers have increased, thanks to the great coverage we receive from the local press, including Betsy Iler, Amy Passeretti, Mitch Sneed and Cliff Williams. Lake Martin continues to be the cleanest lake in the South, and with continued help from all of these dedicated volunteers, we will be able to keep it that way. John Thompson President Lake Martin Resource Association DECEMBER 2017
cleanup volunteers
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 49
50 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 51
DEEP WATER DOCK SERVICES, LLC – Licensed and Bonded
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52 LAKE
OFFICE: Donald:
DECEMBER 2017
256.373.3220
334.850.6577 Josh: 256.794.0512
FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS
FABULOUS FINDS
Under Contract
Willow Glynn, Riverside Cottage $1,195,000 Move-in-ready RLH Construction & designed by Mitch Ginn, this design offers 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2 living areas and vaulted ceilings in the kitchen and owner’s suite. Enjoy the spectacular water views from both of the spacious covered porches. Russell Lands On Lake Martin 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
South Ridge Estates, Y Knot Looking for the perfect homesite and lake houseplan? Take a look at this stunning design by Bill Farshee. Under construction by Classic Homes, this plan is a unique design that provides lake views from every room. The main living area is surrounded by covered lakeside porches. Two owner’s suites on main level and rec room, bunk loft and two guest suites on upper level. A detached two-car garage with guest suite above completes this plan. Russell Lands On Lake Martin 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
South Ridge Harbor, Diamond View $1,650,000 Classic Homes, a division of Russell Lands, has just broken ground on the "Diamond View" in The Ridge. This exciting new lake home design by Larry Furlong has it all: four bedrooms, four full baths, two powder rooms, PLUS two Great Rooms...one on each level. Claim your spot next to the stone fireplace and cozy up to spectacular views of Kowaliga Bay! The open kitchen overlooks the living and dining areas making this home perfect for entertaining family and friends. Call today for more details or to visit this new home project in person! Russell Lands On Lake Martin 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
Willow Glynn, The Abby $1,250,000 Just completed by RLH Construction. The Abby is a 3,219 sq. ft. plan designed by Chuck Frusterio. Owner’s suite and guest suites on main level with spacious livingdining-kitchen and large covered porch. Lake level offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, generous lake-prep room, family room, wet bar, second laundry, and spacious covered patio for outdoor entertaining. Russell Lands On Lake Martin 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
191 Hagan Road, Eclectic, AL • $495,000 Great location in Tallassee Slough. Nicely updated cabin on flat lot in quiet cove. Just around the corner from the big open water of Kowaliga Bay. Just what you're looking for in a weekend lake cabin. Updates include granite counter tops and tile baths. Close to everything on the lake. Minutes from Kowaliga restaurant and Harbor Docks. Come and enjoy the summer now! 3BR 2BA Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
525 Nicholson Road, Alexander City • $995,000 Enjoy Lake Martin like it was meant to be enjoyed. Create memories in this ''Cabin'' style home. Located in the cabin community of Nichols Cove with wooded surroundings and nostalgic dirt roads.Convenient to everything. Very private with open views of Kowaliga Bay! If you are looking for a move-in ready home, great location and views, you have found it here! A must see. Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
96 Shady Bay Point, Jacksons Gap • $318,900 Awesome lake lot in Shady Bay Subdivision, minutes from Hwy. 280, Alex. City and Auburn. This lot is wooded and gently slopes to lake, perfect to build your lake home w/walkout basement. Features new, concrete seawall, great dock and lovely gazebo to watch the afternoon sunsets. Great lake views and good water! RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com
128 River Ridge Road, B2, Alexander City • $219,000 LIVE ON LAKE MARTIN in this adorable townhome with one car garage in the wonderful low density community of Hillside Hideaway. Conveniently located to Hwy 280. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom with gorgeous view and assigned boat slip. Beautiful community pool. Very convenient to Alex City & Auburn. Ready for Lake fun and football season! A MUST SEE! Call today! RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com
1031 Lakeshore Drive, Jacksons Gap • $379,000 Cozy, super cute, lake cabin styled for outdoor fun...sits on deepwater cove that opens to big water. 3BD/2.5BA, split plan w/ spacious master BD/BA, double granite vanity and lg. walk in closet. 2BD/ BA on opposite end. Open kit/din/LR. laminate flooring throughout, 3 sets of french doors on lakeside open to huge deck, perfect for entertaining. Lovely flagstone walkway to dock. Covered boatslip w/ lift and floating dock. Nice landscaping. Everything you need to begin making memories on Lake Martin!! RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 53
Rum Row Schooner
CHEERS!
BY MARK GILLILAND
The Rum Row Schooner is a variation on the classic Old Fashioned. The cocktail is made with Kirk and Sweeney 18 Year Old Rum, Jack Rudy Aromatic Bitters and Demerera Simple Syrup.
54 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
K
irk and Sweeney 18, which is named after a wooden schooner known for smuggling rum from the Caribbean to the U.S. during prohibition, is crafted in the Dominican Republic from raw sugar cane and aged in American oak casks for 18 years. Jack Rudy Aromatic Bitters, created in Boulder, Colorado, has a burnt cane sugar syrup base with notes of citrus and winter spices. Demerera Simple Syrup is a 1:1 ratio of Demerera sugar and water. Demerera is an unprocessed amber-colored sugar that acquires its name from the former Dutch colony, which is now Guyana. www.advancedheatingandac.com
Ingredients
AL#11024
2 ounces/60 milliliters Kirk and Sweeney 18 3 dashes Jack Rudy Aromatic Bitters 1/4 ounce/7.5 milliliters Demerara Simple Syrup 1 orange peel and 2 bourbon cherries for garnish
Heating & Cooling Central Alabama for over 30 Years
Directions
This cocktail is built in a small rocks glass. First, add bitters and demerara simple syrup to rocks glass. Add ice and stir. Next, add one ounce of rum and stir to start the dilution process; then, add the second ounce of rum and ice. Stir. Twist the orange peel over the surface of cocktail to express the oils; rub the rim of the glass with the peel. Garnish the cocktail with bourbon cherries and the orange peel. Mark Gilliland is an Alexander City native and owner of Ocie and Belle's, which is named after his grandparents.
Help tell our county's story CRATA is raising $50,000 to make Smith Mountain Park an educational center on the nature and history of Tallapoosa County
Contribution Form Name_____________________________________ Date_______ Address_______________________________________________ City_______________________ State_______ ZIP____________ Phone________________________________________________ Email_________________________________________________
Giving Levels
Tax deductible gifts to “CRATA-Smith Mountain Tower Restoration� are greatly appreciated! Please return this form and your gift to: Jimmy K. Lanier, CRATA, P.O. Box 240503, Eclectic, AL 36024 All donors will be recognized in print. All donors of $100 or more will be recognized on a permanent cast plaque. Anonymous gifts at all levels will be respected for confidentiality. Honorariums, memorials and appreciations will be acknowledged per donor direction.
Teachers' Helper Trail Blazers Vista Viewers Summit Toppers Visionaries Legacy Sponsors
Up to $99 $100-$249 $250-499 $500-$999 $1,000 or more $5,000 or more
Amount enclosed $_____________________
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 55
After serving our community for 27 years
James Chiropractic Center INVITES YOU TO OUR
Re-Grand Opening & Open House
DECEMBER 6, 2017 from 8-12 & 2-5:30 • Join us as we introduce our new Deep Tissue Laser Therapy, • Door Prizes will be given including a laser treatment package Dr. Kevin A. James, Sr.
(Package Valued at $300)
Doctor of Chiropractic
Laser Therapy is a safe, non-invasive, FDA cleared modality for the treatment of pain and temporary increase in microcirculation. Increased microcirculation can provide relief for many acute and chronic conditions. This therapy is endorsed by professional clinical organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the International Association for the Study of Pain (ISAP). LiteForce Therapy Lasers are the preferred brand of many professional and college athletic trainers. Over 3,000 research studies show Deep Tissue Laser Therapy can be used to treat pain, inflammation and accelerate healing.
JAMES CHIROPRACTIC CENTER, INC. 229 S. Central Ave., Alexander City, AL 35010 | 256.234.2233 Office Hours: M,W,F 8-12 & 2-5:30 | T, TH 8-12
56 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
closed afternoon
HOBO presents radar to Marine Police W
ith commitment to the safety of Lake Martin by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, we can expect to see a greater presence of Marine Patrol with new and improved boats and equipment on the lake in the near future. As many are aware, our lake has HOBO had only one officer and one BY JESSE CUNNINGHAM boat recently to patrol the entire lake, but that is about to change. The Lake Martin Home Owners and Boat Owners have always been committed to the improvement of all aspects of our lake, so the HOBO board decided to do what we could to help the Marine Patrol with its plans for the lake. Our board member, Gene Cody, met with ALEA and determined that the addition of computerized radar on the new patrol boat would help make the officers operating on the lake during darkness and inclement weather much safer. The HOBO Association depends solely on membership dues for all activities, so any expense is carefully considered, to be sure our members’ funds are properly used. What better way to help members than to help the Marine Patrol operate better in difficult situations? Purchase of the radar, computerized compass and associated equipment was an easy decision. On Nov. 16, Cody presented the radar system for the new patrol boat to Lt. Col. Steve Thompson, Marine Patrol division chief. Also in attendance were Col. Charles Ward, director of public safety; Capt. Gary Buchanan; Lt. Mark Fuller; Sgt. Walter Lacey; and Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett. Thompson also informed the group that not only will Lake Martin get the first patrol boat to be used on an inland lake with radar, but also, we can expect more new officers (currently being trained) and more boats (now under construction). The HOBO board invites everyone to visit our website at lakemartinhobos.com, learn more about us and join. Please help us make a difference on our lake.
HOBO representative Gene Cody presents Marine Patrol Lt. Col. Steve Thompson with marine radar equipment for the new patrol boat
Contact Jesse Cunningham of Lake Martin HOBO at 256-825-0919.
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 57
Keep the momentum going! F
all through New Year’s might as well be Start small. Control portions by using a smallcalled the most ‘competitive eating season.’ er serving plate. Research has shown that using a Football games, Halloween, Thanksgiving, bigger dinner plate tends to encourage larger porChristmas and New Year’s tempt us with desserts, tions. goodies and alcohol at every turn. The seemingly Beware of the drinks. You can save hundreds continual parade of food rich in fat, sugar, salt of calories by choosing beverages wisely. Sugary and calories can make these last few months of and alcoholic drinks are laden with calories. It is the year a challenge, even for the most disciplined helpful to have a plan of how many drinks you eater. will have and what type. Champagne has the fewIt is true that during the six weeks surrounding est of calories at 80 calories in 4 ounces; white Thanksgiving through New Year’s most people or red wine has 120 calories per 5 ounces. One gain 2 to 5 pounds. Many people set wellness option would be to make a spritzer using white goals – often pertaining to weight loss, weight HEALTHY LIVING wine and club soda or diet sprite. Make every maintenance, strengthening and increasing activother drink a sparkling water or water. BY JULIE HUDSON ity – at the beginning of the year and have worked Set yourself up for success. It is always best diligently to achieve those goals or make progress toward meet- to sit or stand away from the food. Embrace this special time ing those goals. to catch up with friends and family while concentrating less on As the holiday season continues, it is important to not lose eating. Sit in another area of the house, so you would have to momentum. With Thanksgiving behind us now, Christmas get up from the table or walk into a different room to get more and New Year’s are approaching. ’Tis the season for holiday food. You may think twice if it fits into your plan. gatherings that could be detrimental to healthy routines and the No denying. This is a recipe for disaster. Allow yourself progress made so far this year. Developing a game plan could to try all the options. One bite or small piece of your favorite be a big asset as the festivities continue. The following stratedessert will go a long way to make you feel good inside. Be gies might help. mindful of what you are putting in your mouth. If the second, Bring a dish. Make a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish to third and fourth bites don’t taste as good as the first one, put contribute to the party. If you can bring a dish that is conduyour fork down and push your plate away. You will be satisfied cive to healthy habits and fits into your meal plan, you will without over indulging. have something to fall back on when the table is loaded with Think about your choices. The rule of thumb is to fill up on unhealthy options. Ideas include a vegetable-rich salad with a food that is lower in calories and nutrient dense. Choose shrimp touch of a healthy fat; a whole-grain side dish; grilled vegetacocktail over a cheese ball; sliced vegetables over chips; humbles; or a fruit platter. Make healthy substitutions by reducing mus and salsa over high-fat cheesy and creamy dips. Beware of the amount of sugar in a dish; using applesauce for half of the salads that are laden with high-fat creamy dressing, croutons, fat in a baked product; or thicken soups with vegetables, such bacon and cheese. Choose vinaigrette dressing over the creamy. as mashed potatoes, carrots or cooked risotto in place of adding Choose lean cuts of meat, such as white meat turkey or chickcream. en, for your main meal. Eat before you go to the party. It is never a good idea to Avoid temptation. If you think you will be tempted to eat starve yourself all day and save your appetite for the party. high-calorie snacks and foods during the holidays, do not buy When you arrive to a party hungry, you will most likely eat them. Willpower is a depleting resource. The less of it you use, the first food you see, and this could lead to over eating the the more you might have for later. If you have a favorite treat, unhealthy foods. As an option, eat something small before you dessert or snack, make it and save a few bites but give the rest go, such as fruit; a rice cake with peanut butter; Greek yogurt; away. or a hard-boiled egg. If you eat a low-calorie food that is high Stay encouraged. It is true that one meal is not going to in protein, it will provide a feeling of fullness. make you gain weight, just as one meal is not going to make Scope out the table. Looking at the buffet before you you lose weight. Learn to embrace the holidays by enjoying begin eating will help to determine ahead of time the healthier some of your favorite foods and drinks in moderation. Surround options. Keep your goals in mind and fill half of your plate yourself with healthy options and balance eating with mingling with fruit and vegetables; one quarter of the plate with protein; with family and friends. Get back on track with your normal and the remaining quarter with whole grains. Use a plate, so routine the next morning. you can see the food and the amount you have chosen. This Getting through the holidays is not about deprivation and will help you to gauge the serving size. Watching portion sizes restriction. Enjoy yourself in a healthy way, so your 2018 resois the key. If you are meeting at a restaurant, it helps to look at lutions can focus on living more in the moment rather than the menu ahead of time to decide the healthier options that fit restarting your diet … again. into your eating plan. Then, make healthy substitutions, such as steamed vegetables for fried sides; grilled or baked leaner cuts Julie Hudson is a dietician at the Lake Martin Wellness of meat, fish or poultry; and omitting heavy cream sauces. Center in Dadeville. 58 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
Clearance on Select Premium Outdoor Furniture
Recliners starting at $399 Queen Euro Top Bedding Sets starting at $499
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 59
The BEST in Home, Garden and Lake Essentials
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7995 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 • 334.857.3900 www.LakeMartinMiniMall.com Alexander City Campus 1675 Cherokee Rd Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-6346 Fax: 256-215-4244
Download our app on your smart phone or tablet
Childersburg Campus 34091 US Highway 280 Childersburg, AL 35044 256-378-5576 Fax: 256-378-2027
CENTRAL ALABAMA, CENTRAL TO YOU, CENTRAL TO YOUR SUCCESS.
Talladega Center 1009 South Street East Talladega, AL 35160 256-480-2066 Fax: 256-480-2081 Now teaching classes in Millbrook.
256-234-6346 60 LAKE
www.cacc.edu
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Boiled Peanuts
Ingredients
10 pounds green peanuts 1 pound Morton's Kosher salt 2 heads garlic, cut in half horizontally 5 bay leaves 5 whole dried hot chilies
CHEF’S TABLE BY ROB MCDANIEL Rob McDaniel, executive chef and general manager at SpringHouse Restaurant, earned a bachelor's degree in restaurant and hotel management from Auburn University and is a graduate of the New England Culinary Institute.
Directions
Place everything in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a rolling boil; then, reduce heat to simmer. I have placed a plate and weight over the top but have found that this step is unnecessary as long as you stir the peanuts every 10-15 minutes. Simmer the peanuts for 2-3 hours. After 2 hours, taste the peanuts periodically until the desired doneness is reached. Remove the peanuts from the heat and chill for 24 hours before serving. You can serve them cold or simply heat them up again to serve hot. *Note: if you use dried peanuts instead of green peanuts the cooking time will be much longer. DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 61
Depth Determination O
n a cold, rainy Saturday morning several years ago, I decided to flip a few channels and watch someone else fish for a change. I’ve always enjoyed Bill Dance Outdoors – maybe because he never catches a fish that weighs fewer than 4 pounds. And they always jump, whether they want to or Bill just wants them to. Regardless, if he is catching bass on a private lake, I’m still going to have an opportunity to learn something about bass behavior. In the end, a bass is a bass, and its overall tendencies are the same, whether it’s a 10-acre private lake or a 10,000-acre impoundment. I always compare fishing to the game of chess. Just like a chess player anticipating the next move of an opponent, a good angler does the same with his opponent – the fish. Bill Dance takes a scientific approach to fishing. He gives us a meaningful explanation of where, when, 62 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
why and how we are able to catch fish. Of all water, but as a general rule for Lake Martin, 8 the topics he has discussed on the show, his feet is the max for both species. emphasis on depth has always been of primary Post-Spawn importance in maximizing the catch. Once the bass have finished spring break, In this particular episode of Dance’s show, they will remain in the shallows near the nest for he said that depth was the most critical factor in a brief period, but their ultimate destination is catching fish. He could have mentioned a certhe deeper, cooler water that serves as a refuge tain type of cover like wood or rock, or somewhile they recuperate. As spring progresses into thing like points or current or any of a thousand summer, the fish move deeper to occupy cooler other variables that could be at play. water that holds more oxygen. As I had more time to analyze his point, Current has a similar effect for those fish that it made more sense. By finding the correct are lazy and choose to move toward an active depth, an angler can quickly narrow down the feeder creek versus the main lake. BIG CATCHES area being fished and stay around the fish for As a general rule, bass will occupy the deepest BY GREG VINSON a greater percentage of the time. Once the corwater during the most extreme conditions, like rect depth is ascertained, the other variables can the hottest part of the summer and the coldest be determined from there, such as the type of cover and the part of winter. The deeper the water, the less susceptible it is best bait and presentation for the conditions. Even with the to harsh conditions like heat and cold. perfect bait, around the perfect type of cover, success will be Oxygen is critical to survival for most species of fish. So limited, at best, if fishing is at the wrong depth. focus on the section of the water column just above the therThe million-dollar question is, “How do I determine the mocline and/or chemocline. The depth of the thermocline on correct depth to fish?” Lake Martin varies according to which part of the lake you’re Here are some tips that could help to answer this question. fishing. With a good set of electronics you can see this zone, One of the quickest ways to determine at what depth fish and often, you’ll notice that even the shad prefer a particular will be holding is to consider seasonal patterns. As a bass depth. Find structure, such as points or humps that meet this angler, I break seasonal patterns down into five phases: predepth, and your bait will be in the zone. spawn, spawn, post-spawn, fall and winter. Once I combine As a general rule, the primary depth in the upper portion the seasonal patterns with water conditions, it’s much easier of the lake will be 7-20 feet. In the lower half of the lake to predict the depth range that fish would most likely prefer. where the water is much clearer, the fish may be holding in Keep in mind that optimum depth could vary depending 20, 30 or even 40 feet. on the water clarity, water temperature, weather, etc. Also Fall keep in mind that the optimum depth could vary, depending During the Fall, turnover can scatter the fish to a variety on the part of the lake. Break the lake into sections, such of depth ranges. Even though there can be fish ranging from as upper, middle and lower; or larger creek arms into front, extremely shallow to 20-plus feet, there will be a depth range middle and back. that proves more productive. When you find a productive depth in one of these sections, Shallow patterns can be more productive because the fish look for similar areas, and focus primarily on that key depth relate to cover better. There may be fish relating to deeprange. water structure, but they are oftentimes suspended. When For this article, let’s discuss the preferred depth ranges for fishing for suspended fish, it’s always best to keep your bait fish on Lake Martin by seasonal pattern. at or just above the depth at which you think the fish are Pre-spawn located in the water column. Sometimes, this means keepThe key to finding the right depth during the pre-spawn ing a bait at 10 feet or less throughout the retrieve, even if is to consider the term itself. Pre-spawn refers to the period the fish are hanging over 20 feet of water. This is one of the prior to the spawn, meaning the water is still relatively cool reasons anglers prefer to stay shallow and cover more water but should be warming soon. Most fish that have beds, like during the fall. bass, must spawn shallow enough for sunlight to reach the Winter nest and incubate the eggs; therefore, the desire of the fish As fall gives way to winter, many of the fish begin to pull during this period is to move shallow when the conditions back from the shallows and migrate towards deeper water allow. Combined with the fact that Lake Martin is generally once again. With each harsh cold front, the fish will migrate beginning to rise at this seasonal phase, and the water clarity further from the shallow flats that are more susceptible to is lessened due to frequent rains, you have a perfect recipe cold weather and, therefore, colder water temperatures. I’ve for fish to hold in 10 feet or less. found schools of bass in 55 feet of water during the winter. Spawn By finding the right depth, you’ll improve your efficiency During the spawn, fish will occupy shallow water that on the water. Understanding the preferred depth ranges of they may not visit the rest of the year. Their sole purpose is fish according to seasonal patterns is a great way to anticito propagate the species, so pay close attention to extremely pate the move of your opponent – the bass. shallow water this time of year. For largemouth, focus on depths of 6 feet or less, depending on the water clarity in Greg Vinson is a fulltime professional angler on the your area. Since spots will often spawn a little deeper than Bassmaster Elite Series and PPA tours. He lives in largemouth, focus on the 4-foot to 10-foot range. If the water Wetumpka and grew up fishing on Lake Martin. is off-colored, fish will typically spawn much shallower. If the water is very clear, the fish may spawn in slightly deeper DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 63
A Christmas Re-gift
All hail the internet and the good real estate agent
M
any Advents ago, when I The question the survey is asking worked in a real office with here is, essentially, with all of the actual co-workers, one of options available to buyers today, the more thoughtful ones gave each what was the one resource that, in of us a poinsettia for Christmas. I the end, gave them the property took mine home that evening and they actually bought, as opposed to carelessly plopped it on the kitchen browsed around or researched. table. The winner was the internet. My lovely bride exclaimed, “You It should come as no shock that bought me a poinsettia! How sweet!” homebuyers, just like everyone else, LAKE PROPERTY Seizing the opportunity, I shamelike the internet. I don’t pretend to BY JOHN COLEY lessly took credit. She figured it out be breaking any major news in that in a couple of days, and I lost all of the goodwill regard; however, I do think it is worth mentioning it had earned me. I weakly argued that, technitwo components of the trend. cally, even though it was given to me, I did give The first is the rate at which the internet value it to her, so it should count. is growing, and the second is the steadiness of “Re-gifts don’t count,” she said. the real estate agent’s portion. Having lost, I grabbed my keys and headed to First, let’s take a look at the internet aspect. the mall in search of redemption. After explosive growth in the early 2000s, it My Christmas present to you is the gift of has been slowly climbing, point-by-point, since information. Even though I was given this at around 2011, slowly, steadily chipping away. But work, please don’t say it’s a re-gift, and please this slow and steady trend was busted in 2016 don’t underestimate its value. when we witnessed a 7 percent jump to 51 perEvery year, the National Association of cent. That 7 percent might not seem like much Realtors surveys thousands of people who have until we consider that it represented about a 16 bought and sold homes in the last 12 months. percent increase from the previous year’s 44 perThey ask them all kinds of questions, from the cent. type of financing they used to if and how they Furthermore, consider that the internet, as a used a real estate agent. resource, is 50 percent better than its nearest rival I think that one of the key questions the survey – 51 percent minus 34 percent = 17 percent. 17 asks is, “Where did you find the home you purpercent divided by 34 percent = 50 percent. A 50 chased?” percent victory is a walloping. Crushing. Please note, it is not asking, “What are all the Consider also the ‘also rans’ in this survey. different sources you used during your search?” Since the ‘real estate agent’ category actually The NAR survey revealed that the typical picked up a percent in 2016, that means the bothomebuyer uses seven or eight different sources. tom five sources were really the ones that gave Among these are online websites, real estate up 7 percent to the internet. agents, mobile or tablet search devices, online Check out the yard sign / open house sign catvideo sites, the home builder, open houses, yard egory – there is only an 8 percent chance of that signs, etc. leading to a sale.
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DECEMBER 2017
Remember that this is a national survey, and most of the buyers surveyed bought their primary residence in a city in which they already lived. I make that point because I think that at Lake Martin that number would be a lot lower. Since we are in a rural, second-home market, most buyers don’t ride around aimlessly or even commute to work. They are on vacation, on their smart phones like everyone else, searching and then letting Siri or some other robotic voice guide them to the home. The bad news is even worse for homebuilders and print advertisements. These two categories are tailing off to nothing. All hail the web. What is the implication for the real estate industry at Lake Martin and abroad? Does this mean that we agents should pack away our hair dye, our balloons and our ‘Agent On Duty’ signs? Should we just give up and quit trying to resist being assimilated into The Borg? Should we let the web win? I don’t think so. Observe that the real estate agent as a source has been steady at about one-third of the responders in the last several years. Sure, that number might drop in the future, but at least it’s not falling exponentially like those other resources. Why? I think one reason is that with the proliferation of the internet comes geographic expansion
of information that is available online. In other words, it is really hard these days to sift through all of the bad information to get to the good stuff. This principle is doubly true in real estate. Despite the claims of sites like Zillow and Realtor.com, the truth is that those sites are so inaccurate that they do more harm than good. They are full of fake news – expired listings and property information that is flat out wrong. Most buyers have neither the time nor the experience to sift through the chaff. Enter the real estate agent. Don’t get me wrong; I have no illusions about our industry. I think the internet as a resource will grow and will cause the market value of a mediocre agent to diminish. This is, in my opinion, a just trend. Nothing irks me more as an agent than to see another one get paid top dollar for minimal effort. The consumer is the loser in that exchange. Conversely, I think the value of a good agent will increase in proportion to the amount of chaff in the system. People will always be willing to pay for someone that saves them time and money, and good agents do just that. John Coley is a broker and owner of Lake Martin Voice Realty. Visit his blog at LakeMartinVoice.com.
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 65
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66 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
Passing the Torch
Pro Tips From Lee Williams Over the last several years I have enjoyed writing the Pro Tips article for Lake magazine. My goal was to keep things very simple to where a beginner could understand most of what I was saying. I hope that I was able to help in an all-encompassing capacity. Golf has been one of the greatest learning tools for me throughout my life. It has helped teach me honesty, integrity, commitment and many other life lessons. I’m very fortunate to have been introduced to the game at such an early age by my dad. If you are looking for a game that can be a great influence in your life, take up the game of golf. I believe the lessons of the game have prepared me for my next chapter in my life. Moving forward, Matt Sheppard at Willow Point Country Club will be taking over the column. Since Matt has been at Willow Point, he has been the person I consulted when I couldn’t see my teacher. I’m confident he will do a great job and will produce a column that each of you will look forward to reading every month. The change is due to a disease I have in my back; I will not be able to play golf at a professional level anymore. Unfortunately, life sometimes throws tough challenges. Golf has done a great job of preparing me for challenges. In the near future, I will be opening a financial planning office in Alexander City under the umbrella of Nowlin and Associates Wealth Management out of Birmingham. I’m excited about this opportunity to help people in a different capacity. I’m optimistic about this new chapter in my life. Also, I’m looking forward to reading Matt’s column each month. Lastly, I would like to thank the staff at Lake magazine, especially the Boones and Betsy Iler. It has been a lot of fun to watch the magazine evolve into what it is today. I’m grateful and honored to have been chosen as a monthly columnist. Thank you for your trust in me!
Lee Williams, a professional golfer on the PGA Tour, grew up playing at Willow Point Country Club. As an amateur, Williams was a member of the 2003 and 2005 Walker Cup teams, as well as the 2004 World Amateur Team. He is sponsored by Russell Lands, King Honda, Nowlin and Associates, P.F. Chang's, Tempus Jet, Hyatt Adams Golf, Russell Athletic, Titleist, Ameritas Financial Corp. and Southwest Airlines.
Marathon Play Stillwaters golf pro golfs 100 holes to raise money for United Way STORY & PHOTO BY DONALD CAMPBELL
United Way members Courtney Layfield and Tina Parker stand with Witherington after his fiveand-a-half rounds of golf
Stillwaters golf pro Gabby Witherington completed his second annual 100-hole golf marathon to raise money for the Lake Martin Area United Way earlier last month. “I’m a little tired and sore, but I’m happy. We raised money for a good cause,” he said after completing his approximately five-and-a-half rounds of golf. When he began spreading the word about racing through 100 holes earlier this year, Witherington increased his fundraiser goal from last year’s total of $3,000 to $4,000. “I raised $4,450 this year, but I might still get another donation or two before I turn the money in,” he said. “I’m very pleased with the turnout this year. It’s tremendous to go over my goal as much as I did. I have always had great support from Stillwaters, but I also appreciate the support from Dadeville and Alexander City as well.” Lake Martin United Way Executive Director Sharon Fuller said it was great to know so many showed up to his marathon just to support him and keep him pushing through hole after hole along the way. Witherington saw a great deal of support from not only Stillwaters staff, but also members of United Way and Dadeville Mayor Wayne Smith followed him on the course throughout the day. “He truly represents what Team United is all about,” said Fuller.
DECEMBER 2017
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Legend
63
20
22
280
To Sylacauga
19
Alexander City
Public Boat Ramps 15
9 Churches
7
Camp ASCCA
Flint Hill Church
Camps & Parks
13
Power lines U.S. Highways
3
280
22
County Roads Piney Woods Landing
Wind Creek State Park
Pleasant Grove Church
11
COOSA COUNTY
Alex City Boat Ramp
Mt. Zion Church
259 9
128
Russell Farms Baptist Church 63
12 20
D.A.R.E. Park Landing
Friendship Church New Hope Church
Liberty Church
Willow Point
24
6
8
Equality
Kowaliga Boat Landing
55
4
Seman
63
Trillium
18 The Ridge
2
The Amp Ko w
ali
14
ga
Ba
y
80
9
Central
90
Union
ELMORE COUNTY Union Church
Red Hill 63
229
Eclectic
Tallassee
16 11
68 LAKE
Union Landing
Children’s Harbor
21
34
Camp Alamisco
9
1 10
Church in The Pines Camp Kiwanis
Paces Point Boat Ramp
Kent
DECEMBER 2017
Timbergut Landing
Horseshoe Bend National Park
Jaybird Landing
Lake Martin Alabama Marinas 11. Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
TALLAPOOSA COUNTY
22. The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300 450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 33. River North Marina 256-397-1500 250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
49
42. Real Island Marina 334-857-2741 2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026
Jacksons Gap
53. Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853
280
Bethel Church
17
Dadeville
57
280
Camp Hill
Smith Landing
4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 16 334-541-2132 1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Building Supply 17 256-825-4256 350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 18 4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333 288 Stables Loop, Alex City, AL 35010 19 4. Dark Insurance 256-234-5026 410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 www.darkinsuranceagency.com
62. Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550 486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026
. McDaniels Storage Center 20 256-234-4583 1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010
72. Alex City Marine Sales and Service 256-215-3474 2190 Cherokee Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
21 . Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024
Restaurants 8 6. SpringHouse 256-215-7080 12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 9 Catherine’s Market 6. 256-215-7070 17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Pleasant Ridge Church
4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 15 256-234-2567 1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010
Advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map for as little as $25. Contact us at 256-234-4281 or marketing@alexcityoutlook.com for more information.
10 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 11 Bezlo's Cafe 334-639-0003 65 Main Street., Eclectic, AL 36024
Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters
Stillwaters
Business & Shopping
5
12 Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075 970 Hwy. 63 South, Alex City, AL 35010
Walnut Hill 50 50
13 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481 5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, AL 35010 14 5. Lake Martin Mini Mall 334.857.3900 7995 Kowaliga Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024
49
Reeltown
DECEMBER 2017
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Lake Magazine Distribution ALEXANDER CITY
Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Q Campus of CACC Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart Emporium Wine Grace’s Flowers Hampton Inn Holley’s Home Furnishings Hometown Pharmacy Jackson Drugs Jake’s JR’s Sports Bar & Grill Koon’s Korner Koon’s Korner II Lake Martin Building Supply Lakewinds Golf Club
70 LAKE
Larry’s General Store Longleaf Antiques Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot USAmeribank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon
CHELSEA Winn-Dixie The Ditsy Daisy Boutique CHILDERSBURG Piggly Wiggly DADEVILLE
Bay Pine Marina Blue Creek Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foshee's Boat Doc Homeplate Restaurant Harbor Pointe Marina Lakay’s Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Community Hospital Lakeshore Discount Pharmacy Lakeside Marina Niffer's At The Lake Oskar's Cafe Payne Furniture Pearson’s Place Poplar Dawgs Public Library Pug's Place PNC Bank
DECEMBER 2017
Renfroes Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 USAmeribank
ECLECTIC
KELLYTON Five Star Plantation MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market
RED HILL Citgo
Bezlo's Children’s Harbor Cotton’s BBQ Eclectic Do-It Center Johnson’s Furniture Kowaliga Marina Lake Martin Dock Lake Martin Mini Mall Nail’s Convenience Store Peoples Bank
SYLACAUGA Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly
EQUALITY
Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery
Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star INVERNESS Winn-Dixie Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Arena Tree Top Family Adventure
TALLASSEE Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce Tallassee Automotive The Tallassee Tribune
WALNUT HILL
WETUMPKA The Wetumpka Herald A limited number of magazines are placed at these locations. To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.
Lake Martin Business and Service Directory Handrails • Guardrails Welded Fence • Custom Art Stairs • Gates Stainless Steel Cable Railing I-Beams • Steel Posts • Stairs On-Site Welding/Cutting Powder Coat • Sand Blasting
334-332-3435 334-391-0759
Professional! Trey Callegan Area Manager Call TODAY for quick Pre-approval!
A Division of Goldwater Bank, N.A.
248 Inverness Ctr Dr, Birmingham AL
205-995-7283
Call TODAY for quick Pre-approval NMLS #47862 Corporate NMLS #452955
COACH KRAFT
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
“WE’RE
UPHOLSTERY ■ Floors ■ Carpets Bimini Tops ■ Custom Seats ■ Mooring Covers
Patrick Mason 334-283-6759
LAKE
676 Dean Circle • Tallassee, AL www.coachkraft.com
F
LOOR
C
Performance! OMPANY
THE PROFESSIONALS”
Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Carpet & Vinyl
Complete Marine Upholstery! ■
H
OLMAN
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700
Visit our showroom for samples and a free estimate!
haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City
Visit LoveLakeMartin.com
Paige Patterson
Locally Owned for Over 45 Years
256-234-6071
205-616-8046
www.paigepatterson.com
Relax. Enjoy. Lake Martin. Call to order your subscription 256-234-4281
MAGAZINE
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 71
Our Advertisers n To Join, Call 256.234.4281 A&M Plumbing....................................................... 16
Emporium Wine.................................................... 39
Prime Management................................................. 6
Advanced Heating & Air...................................... 55
Farmers Insurance, Scotty Gordon.................. 39
Queen's Attic......................................................... 39
Alex City Guide Service........................................ 8
First Baptist Church Alexander City.................. 8
Renaissance Electronics......................................... 8
Alex City Marine................................................... 16
French Quarter Bistro......................................... 38
Russell Lands.......................................................... 75
Amanda Scroggins, RE/MAX Around the Lake.........20
George Hardy D.M.D........................................... 55
Russell Medical........................................................ 2
Blue Creek Iron Works....................................... 71
Heritage South Credit Union............................ 66
Satterfield............................................................6, 23
Boutique Talisi........................................................ 22
Hilltop Landscaping............................................... 72
Security Pest Control............................................ 8
Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation......................... 8
Holley’s Home Furnishings................................. 76
Southern Star Alpaca Farm.............................6, 23
C&T Eclectric.......................................................... 8
Holman Floor......................................................... 71
SportzBlitz.............................................................. 73
Cahaba Glass.......................................................... 37
Jackson Thornton.................................................. 56
State Farm Insurance/ Harold Cochran..........71
Carlisle's.................................................................. 38
James Chiropractic Center................................. 56
State Farm Insurance/ Karen Channell..........71
Central Alabama Community College............. 60
Koon's Catering..................................................... 22
Sunrise Dock.......................................................... 12
CertaPro Painters................................................. 71
Kowaliga Whole Health....................................... 71
Tallassee Community Hospital........................... 20
Cloud Nine............................................................. 38
Lake Martin Carpet Cleaning............................. 39
Temple Medical Center....................................... 57
Coach Kraft Upholstery...................................... 71
Lake Martin Community Hospital..................... 17
The Body Shop...................................................... 38
Cotney Jewelers.................................................... 38
Lake Martin Dock................................................. 16
Touchless Boat Covers........................................ 12
Country Financial.................................................. 38
Lake Martin Mini Mall................................... 22, 60
TowBoatU.S.............................................................. 5
Crew Lending......................................................... 71
MainStreet of Alexander City..................... 38, 39
Walmart.................................................................. 23
Custom Docks....................................................... 32
Mark King's Furniture.......................................... 59
Wedowee Marine................................................. 21
Damon Story, Cedar Point................................. 33
Marsha Mason........................................................ 39
Williams Plumbing Heating & Air........................ 8
DAVCO Development......................................... 71
McGhee Furniture Warehouse.......................... 32
Wind Creek Casino............................................... 3
Deep Water Dock Services................................ 52
Merle Norman....................................................... 39
Wind Creek Zipline............................................. 23
Designs by Trish....................................................... 5
Noel Boone..................................................... 23, 71
WSC Distinctive Builders, LLC......................... 37
Docks Unlimited..................................................... 5
Paige Patterson, Lake Martin Voice Realty......71
Downtown Girl..................................................... 38
Piggly Wiggly........................................................... 39
72 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
DECEMBER 2017
LAKE 73
Parting Shot Photo by Kenneth Boone
“I live in a landscape, which every single day of my life is enriching.” ~ Daniel Day-Lewis
74 LAKE
DECEMBER 2017
Memorable occasions at our place or yours Make an iMpressiOn.
catherine’s Market, kOwaliga, and springhOuse offer an enticing array of catering options sure tO leave their Mark On yOur cOrpOrate event , private dinner , Or lavish hOliday party . Holiday parties and dinners h Intimate in-home gatherings h Personal celebrations Business breakfasts, lunches or meetings h Private chefs at your location h Your venue or ours We’ll take care of the details, so you don’t have to.
Our catering planners are at yOur fingertips. Just cOntact us, and we’ll help yOu
make your occasion one to remember.
256.215.7070
www.CatherinesAtCrossroads.com
256.215.7080
www.SpringHouseAtCrossroads.com
DECEMBER 2017
256.215.7035 www.KowaligaRestaurant.com LAKE 75
INJURED BY YOUR OLD MATTRESS OR SOFA?
Merry Christmas Alabama! Call me! RALPH HOLLEY
I AM YOUR
FURNITURE STORE! Every representation is made that the products, prices and service provided by Holley’s Home Furnishings are greater than the products, prices and service provided by other furniture stores.
76 LAKE
256.234.4141 Alexander City
DECEMBER 2017
334.279.3101 Montgomery