December 2015 Lake Martin Living by Tallapoosa Publishers

Lake Martin Living 1

2 Lake Martin Living

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From the Editor I am a great fan of happily-ever-after. I cry with good books, sappy movies and, yes, great moments in real life. I love the stories that tug at hearts, renew faith in mankind and allow the seeds of all-is-right-with-the-world to burst into spectacular, breathtaking blossoms. Almost as wonderful as watching happilyever-after unfold is the opportunity to tell its stories. Fortunately, I get a lot of those opportunities as managing editor of TPI’s magazines, and December is one of the best times to bring those stories to you because this month embodies hope, faith, joy, peace and love – all the essential elements of a great happilyever-after tale. We have some great happily-ever-afters to share with you this month in Lake Martin Living magazine. For a whole year now, we have looked forward to telling you the story of Candy Day on page 36. Savannah Harrison started the tale last December, and we have spent the year in gleeful anticipation. It is a heartwarming story of one family’s tradition – how it began and how it has continued for 15 years. Our thanks to Jessica Sanford for granting us a view of the hearts of her loved ones in the story of this sweet day spent with family. You’ll find another story that has been a year in the making on page 30. Last December, Karen and Mark Treadwell of Dadeville opened the door of their hearts and their home to us as we heard stories of Christmases past and present entwined with hope and faith of Christmases yet to come. As we strolled from one room of their historic home to the next, the warmth and love of family through the generations was evident everywhere we looked. Sometimes, happily-ever-after is something to be pursued, and this month’s cover story is one such case. If you need hope renewed in the next generation, turn to pages 22 and 26 and read about two high school athletes with local connections who are driving toward success with hard work, sacrifice and the support of family and friends. Their stories may be just the inspiration you need this Christmas. So from our hearts to yours, may this year and the turning of the next bring you many happily-ever-after moments that you will cherish for all time. Thank you for letting us share these with you.

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor Corrections: On the cover of last month's issue of Lake Martin Living magazine, we identified Southern Star as the Southeast's only alpaca farm. There are numerous alpaca farms in the Southeast. On page 50 of the November issue of Lake Martin Living, the name of the child in photograph 3 was incorrectly reported. The photo featured Lisa and Landon McGregor. We regret these errors. 4 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living Editor & Publisher Kenneth Boone Managing Editor Betsy Iler Assistant Magazine Editor Mia Osborn Contributors Dave Jennings Luke Robinson Fletcher Scott Susan Foy Fred Muenzmay Cliff Williams Mitch Sneed David Granger Robert Hudson Jessica Sneed Corey Arwood Savannah Harrison Kay Thomas & Karen Jennings Magazine Distribution Manager David Kendrick Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Hallie Holloway Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Kim Morse Emily Guill Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com Reader Advisory Board W.L. “Buddy” King Fred Dobbs Ann Goree Donna Burkett Reggie Dean Lake Martin is published Feel freeLiving to contact members monthly Tallapoosa Publishers of ourby Reader Advisory Board. Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-2344281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

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ON THE COVER World-class gymnast and Olympic hopeful Kylie Dickson and Alabama state champion distance runner Dillon Dean spend hours each day pursuing their goals for excellence in athletics. Photo by Kenneth Boone

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FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

20. REACHING GREAT HEIGHTS W orld-class gymnast Kylie Dickson works out at a local gym 24. GOING THE DISTANCE BRHS senior Dillon Dean runs for a state title and the top 2 percent at Mercedes Half Marathon 28. CHRISTMAS MAGIC This Dadeville home reflects holiday memories and the love of family 36. CANDY DAY A Christmas tradition now in its 15th year

9. AROUND THE AREA 12. HAPPY GARDEN 14. OUTDOOR LIFE 19. FROM THE TEE

39. MEDICAL NEWS 40. MONEY MATTERS 41. OH SNAP! 46. LAKE REGION EVENTS 54. THE LAST WORD

Mistletoe decorates a doorway in the Treadwell family's Dadeville home. Photo by Kenneth Boone

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AROUND THE AREA

73-year-old woman pedals through the county Seventy-three-year-old German immigrant Hanna Elshoff rode her solar-assisted bicycle through Tallapoosa County last month to say thank you to the American people and to raise awareness for the Toastmasters and the Lions clubs. Elshoff left Minnesota in May and has ridden more than 1,500 miles in an ELF (Electric Light and Fun), a combination pedal and solar-powered craft. “The bike is the star, not me,” Elshoff said. “It gets a lot of attention because no one has ever seen anything like it.

“I’m doing this just really as a way to say thank you. I was born in northern Germany in 1942 during the war, and the Nazis had orders to load me and my family on a truck, but when the Nazi officers were just about to follow their orders American soldiers came and the war ended. So America saved my life.

The Toastmasters saved my soul and the Lions gave me a purpose. That’s what all this is about. “I just kind of ride by the seat of my pants, I guess you could say. But all the people have been so kind. This is a great town. People have been so nice.” ~ Jessica and Mitch Sneed

Not Your Traditional Two-Wheeler

Hanna Elshoff created quite a stir on U.S. Highway 280 through Alexander City and Dadeville last month as her two-year journey to thank the American people carried her to Auburn. Elshoff's bike ride will carry her through most of the eastern U.S.

Entertainment District hosts first beer run festival in Alexander City

Turkey Trot Beer Run Takes Off

Frontline Fitness held the area's first craft beer festival run last month.

About 100 people turned out Nov. 21 for the Ultimate Turkey Trot Beer Run and Craft Beer Festival at Strand Park in Alexander City. Steve Denney of Frontline Fitness organized the event, which featured craft beer companies from Opelika and Huntsville, as well as a local winery. “It was a great turnout, everybody had a great time,” Denny said. Denney said everything ran smoothly for the 1-mile beer tasting run and the evening brew sampling, so well that he said he would consider bringing the event back next year. Sampling booths were set up at quarter-mile intervals along the route for the afternoon run. A native of California, Denney owns Frontline Fitness on Cherokee Road in Alexander City. ~ Corey Arwood

Young Professionals Re-Launch

Some 40 local young and youngat-heart professionals last month gathered for a re-launch social meeting at which House District 81 Representative Mark Tuggle challenged the group to be leaders in the community. "You are a big part of the direction this town takes for the next 20, 30, even 40 years," Tuggle told them. "I want to encourage you to get involved." ~ Cliff Williams

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Art & Photography Contest Entry When Laura Landrum of Lafayette, Alabama, brought her entries for the 2015 Lake Martin Living Art & Photography Contest, she also brought in entries for her daughter, Joann. Not realizing that the photographs had been taken by two different artists, the person who cataloged the pieces put them all under Laura’s name, and none of Joann’s work was published in the October issue of the magazine. It is important to us that everyone who enters is recognized, so this month, we wanted to publish one of Joann Landrum’s photographs to correct the situation. Here is her picture of driftwood washed up on the shore of Lake Martin.

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Photograph of Driftwood By Joann Landrum

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What Your Gardener Really Wants From tools to trucks, these gifts will make a grower smile

Happy Garden

ergonomic shapes are especially helpful for any of us gardeners use the cold older gardeners or those who need the extra winter months to dream about and leverage. plan our gardens for next summer. Yard Art: If you really want to be But since this is not the season for planting remembered long after the holidays are over, and being active in the garden, sometimes get your gardener something that will be a our family and friends forget that there are centerpiece in the garden. I am talking about garden-related gifts we would love to receive. a big item such as a trellis, sundial, birdbath If you have a gardener on your Christmas or even a waterfall. Just make sure your gift list, just ask! Most of us will happily give complements the style of the garden it will call some not-so-subtle hints, such as leaving the home. nursery catalog open with a beautiful rose or Cozy Necessities: Does your gardener own shrub circled in ink. But in case your gardener Fred Muenzmay some good garden gloves? If thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rough friend or family member is shy, here are some work to do, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best to have gloves with heavy hints of my own: cuffs that extend almost to the elbow. Tools: If you are shopping for people who A Truck: Not a real truck but one of those lightweight are new to gardening, the most important possession two-wheel jobs that are so much easier to pull or push they can receive is quality equipment. Spades, shovels, than a wheelbarrow. Our wheelbarrow is so heavy and hoes, etc., are essentials. Spend the money to purchase hard to push. Consider a nice gardening cart. well-made pieces that will last a lifetime. Tool Caddy: I have one with pockets on the inside and If your gardener already has the essentials, pruning outside. I think it was designed for carpenterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tools, but shears, nice trowels, gardening knives and kneeling it works great for gardening. pads or rolling seats are always appreciated. Tools with

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Containers: Those folks who have very little space really appreciate growing plants in containers. Although I may not be able to put an arrangement in a lovely container on my deck until next spring, I would be delighted to receive a nice pot or other container for Christmas. Other container ideas include hanging baskets, window boxes and seedling trays. Plants: Of course, this is not the proper time of year to plant flowers in the garden; however, you can order from nursery catalog companies that will send the plant at the appropriate planting time. Subscriptions: One gift that will encourage the receiver to think of you often is a subscription to a magazine. You will come to mind every time they open a new issue. Most gardeners enjoy magazines about gardening or attracting birds, butterflies or other wildlife. Gift Certificates: You can obtain gift certificates at any nursery or store that sells gardening supplies; then, the recipients can pick out whatever they need. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such fun for gardeners to go into stores and have money for what they really want. Membership: Membership in a gardening society is a personal gift that offers many rewards. A gift membership for the American Horticultural Society opens up a world of advantages available only to members. Membership in more specific plant societies puts the gardener in contact with others who share similar interests. There are societies for cacti, roses, peonies, bromeliads â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you name it. These groups are always happy to have new members. The best way to find one is to go online and enter the appropriate specialty into a search engine. Membership allows one to attend annual conferences and often includes excellent publications. Master Gardener Classes: Take a few minutes to call your local county extension agent and ask him or her when the next master gardener class opens. You can usually ask for an application and pay for the class right then. The gift of knowledge will last a lifetime. So get something useful and original for your gardener. Who knows? You might even get hooked on gardening if you are not already. Now, where can I leave this article, so my wife will see it? Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year to all. ~ Fred Muenzmay of Eagles Roost Herb Farms is a Master Gardener and has been in the business of growing organic herbs, vegetables and blueberries for regional and local farmer's markets for 17 years. Contact him at fmuenzmay@earthlink.net. Lake Martin Living 13

GO BACKPACKING! Alabama Hiking Society president Callie Thornton of Rockford discusses the joys of backpacking and the value of good gear

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ne December Taking to the Trail Previous pages: Fletcher day back in the Scott pauses at an 1980s, my wife overlook above Cheaha and I loaded up the Toyota Wilderness in the 1980s; (Left): Scott took a group for a three-day backpack of students backpacking up to Haoe Peak in the in the Sipsey Wilderness Nantahala National Forest near Bankhead National Forest. of North Carolina. The plan was to spend our first It would be a long day of night on the trail, then walking, but we needed finish the 5,249-foot trek to get off the mountain as to the top and turn around. soon as possible. The second night would When we finally made be spent partway back it back to the trailhead, down the mountain, and ours was the only car in the third day would find us the parking lot. As we hiking back to the parking drove away, the North lot. Carolina Department of It was a good plan, but Transportation set up saw we didn’t count on the horses blocking the road weather making a plan of behind us. On our way its own. out of the national forest, When we arrived at it started snowing. We the trailhead there was thought about how tough a definite chill in the air, it would have been to spend but we quickly put the cold in perspective. If we another night in the wilderness. planned to spend the night on the ground, we My wife and I have since backpacked all over joked, we had better be used to a little chill! the United States, but I will never forget this As we climbed, the air got colder and the wind experience. We survived the extreme elements blew harder. We donned gloves and toboggans and because we were prepared, but a flimsy tent or kept walking, but it soon became clear we would a lack of access to food might have meant our not reach our goal before dark. I found a level spot deaths. It is comforting to know how self-sufficient to pitch the tent. It was way too windy and cold to you can be when carrying everything you need on think about a campfire, so we ate a meal of fruit your back. and energy bars and tried to get some rest. Callie Thornton, President of the Alabama That night is one I’ll never forget. The tent Hiking Trail Society (AHTS), understands the flapped and rustled as the wind howled all night need for proper equipment. Started in 2001 by long. Nearby trees snapped as they lost branches to hiker Rick Guhse, the mission of the AHTS is the storm. When I peeked out with my flashlight, I to plan, build and maintain non-paved, nonsaw snow blowing parallel to the ground. motorized hiking trails throughout the state. The When I woke, it was dead calm. Ice had Fletcher Scott AHTS maintains chapters from North Alabama formed on the tent walls from our breath. My to Mobile, but the headquarters is in Thornton’s thermometer read 19 degrees; I knew it was colder hometown of Rockford in southern Coosa County. outside. We crawled out of our sleeping bags and put on all Thornton started backpacking when she attended an the clothes we had, packing our gear with frozen fingers. outdoor class presented by the AHTS. The only way to produce any heat was to get moving. After “We walked to the Stairway to Heaven, which is 3.7 miles about a mile of walking through the snow, I was warm enough north of Adams Gap on the Pinhoti Trail. I’ll never forget the to fire up my MSR stove and boil water in a Sigg pot to make beautiful sunset and great views from that overlook. Since coffee and oatmeal. Feeling much better after a hot meal, we that time, I have been hopelessly hooked on backpacking,” continued our trek to Haoe Peak. From there, I could see all Thornton said. the nearby peaks were already covered in snow, and more Thornton has had her share of unpleasant backpacking clouds were rolling in. At this point, we made the decision to walk out if we could. experiences, such as being caught in the pouring rain in the

Outdoor Life

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Dugger Mountain Wilderness of Talladega National Forest. “Everything was flooded with standing water, or it was too steep for a campsite, so we just walked and walked. Finally, after a 17-mile backpack, we located a place to camp. I was so exhausted and wet I didn’t care about anything,” Thornton said. She also has seen misfortune befall other backpackers who didn’t prepare properly. “Once, I remember a backpack a group of us attended. We struck out on the trail and walked several miles. When we reached our designated campsite, one of our members realized he didn’t bring his sleeping bag!” she said. “He covered himself up with leaves and pine straw, but it didn’t help much since the temperature was in the low 30s.” Fortunately, advancements in camping gear have made it easier to carry everything a backpacker might need, as long as they remember to pack it. Thornton favors an Osprey backpack with an internal frame design to distribute weight evenly. She fills it with a 7-ounce Esbit stove and a Big Agnes Fly Creek tent, which weighs in at just less than 2 pounds. At 3 pounds, 9 ounces, Thornton’s Kelty Cosmic sleeping bag is New Hikers Are Welcome heavier than her tent. The extra President of the Alabama Hiking Trail weight is worth it to keep out the Society, Callie Thornton cold; the down-filled bag has been is passionate about tested for temperatures of minus planning, building and maintaining hiking trails. 16 degrees Fahrenheit.

One of the heaviest items I remember carrying in my own backpacking days is water. Water weighs more than 8 pounds per gallon. Throw in a big pump and filter and you have a 10-pound burden. Despite the weight, Thornton recommends filling up on water at the first available site. “If you wait until you reach a campsite, you might find yourself out of luck if the water source is dried up,” she said. For purification, Thornton uses a Sawyer Mini Water Filter. It weighs only 2 ounces, and each filter cartridge is good for 100,000 gallons of water. Of course, having the right gear is only part of being prepared. Backpackers also need the right knowledge to keep them out of danger. Thornton urges the curious to visit an AHTS class to expand their knowledge of hiking, or just to give her a call. “We welcome new hikers and will take anyone on their first trip,” she said. AHTS monthly meetings are held in Rockford, and anyone is welcome to learn more about this activity that stimulates the mind as well as the body. “The more you backpack, the easier it gets,” Thornton said. Thornton can be reached through her Facebook page or the Alabama Hiking Trail Society’s website: www.hikealabama.org ~ Fletcher Scott is a retired science teacher who enjoys nature photography.

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THIS IS COMMUNITY. THIS IS YOUR MUSEUM. THIS IS AUBURN.

JCSM.AUBURN.EDU 18 Lake Martin Living

Appreciating The Masters

Like great chefs in the kitchen, Pro players are kings From the Tee

confident in the material compared to those atching a gourmet chef prepare a who had not prepared well. Watching these meal captures my attention. The kids either boldly answer questions or stare at things a true culinary champion the test as if they were reading Chinese, I was can do impress me immensely. True chefs rarely struck by the close similarity between their require measuring spoons and cups in the prep behavior and what I see in golfers of all ages and area. They know instinctively what spices to use talent levels on a daily basis. with various cuts of meat, and in what amounts. The students who know their test material The correct style of knife is always chosen. confidently and calmly answer each question, Meanwhile, dummies like me may grab a while the ill-prepared students fidget in their paring knife to carve a turkey. Watching me seats and chew on their pencils. prepare a meal is nearly as exciting as watching In the same way, seasoned golfers make a snail meander down the sidewalk. But if I had Dave Jennings educated decisions on the golf course. They let the differences between me and a master decide on the proper shot and execute it boldly chef stop me from ever preparing a meal, I while golfers who doubt their abilities overwouldn’t be able to appreciate true culinary study various situations and hesitate in their club choices talent. and swings. There are a great number of people who have tried golf As you watch golf on television, notice how smoothly once with little success and stated, “This game’s not for me!” most Tour golfers stroke their putts or drive their tee shots But when April rolls around, even those who do not care for the game will usually tune in to watch The Masters, even when the pressure is not on. But put something on the line – making the cut, winning or losing, being paired with an if only for a short while. iconic Tour player – and watch how fidgety many of these The Masters – along with the U.S. Open, The British rookie professional golfers become. Open and the PGA Championship – are the Majors of golf. Even if you don’t understand the ins and outs of golf, But unlike the Majors, the Masters is always played at the you can still enjoy watching people handle stressful or same venue, Augusta National, and is watched the world unfamiliar situations. over by golfers and non-golfers alike. I’ve been watching golfers closely for more than 50 years. There are few more beautifully cared-for grounds in the Monitoring such confident players as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold world, and during that very special week, Augusta National Palmer, Byron Nelson, Tiger Woods and, recently, Jordan lights up with dogwoods and azaleas that appear to be on Speith as they handle high-pressure situations never grows fire. Along with the beauty, the Masters is the first Major old for me. Like master chefs in a kitchen, they are kings of of the year, and it gets more hype from the media than any their chosen sport. other golfing event. For those of you who are not golfers but find yourselves Many folks who don’t play much golf will end up stuck in front of a television in a room full of adoring golf watching some golf during a Major, either by choice or fans, you may enjoy monitoring these professionals’ body because their peers or family members shame them into it. language as much as your friends and family take pleasure For these people, I have a consideration to keep in mind, in watching the tournament itself. outside of drives, score and putts. The golf coverage will end soon enough, and you’ll be Over the years working at Central Alabama Community able to return to your more comfortable conversations. In College, I have been asked to proctor a few exams when the the meantime, enjoy. You may end up appreciating the game regular instructors could not be present. The first few times and becoming a fan yourself. I did this, the clock rolled by amazingly slowly. I was bored From the CACC Trojan Golf Team, Merry Christmas and to tears as I monitored the students to be certain that no one Happy New Year! was cheating. I think it was the third time I monitored that a new ~ Dave Jennings is men's golf coach at Central Alabama thought hit me, which was quite a revelation. I began Community College. to notice different body language in students who were Lake Martin Living 19

Reaching great heights World-class gymnast works out at local gym while visiting family in Alexander City STORYâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;BY MIA OSBORN & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

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ylie Dickson seemed barely older than the gaggle of elementary school gymnasts she addressed at Alexander City’s Top Flight Gym, but the slight 16-year-old Olympic-hopeful with local ties is already a rising star. “Hard work is very important,” she told the young girls gathered on the mats at her feet. Although her professional athletics career began less than two years ago, Kylie Dickson has already achieved more than many teen athletes ever dream of. She was ranked 11th in the United States at the 2015 Secret U.S. Classic. In October 2015, Dickson competed for Belarus in the Gymnastics World Championships in Glasgow, Scotland, where her performance put her in the running for a spot in the next Olympic Games. When that happens, she will be the first Olympian with a local connection. The elite-level gymnast came to Alexander City in early November for some downtime with family and to visit the University of Alabama, where she recently accepted a full-ride scholarship. But downtime didn’t mean a break in her 32-hours-per-week training schedule. To keep in practice, Dickson worked out at Top Flight nearly every day of her visit. Discipline is essential to Dickson’s success, and her speech to Top Flight’s junior class reflected her dedication. “When your coach is watching, give it your all. When your coach turns his or her back, still give it your all,” she said. Despite her impressive resume, in person, Dickson is a normal teenager. She’s excited about the new Hunger Games movie. She’s devoted to her Flying High friends and especially Left: Olympic-hopeful Kylie Dickson performed a 4-foot high her family; in fact, wolf jump while practicing her family was the routine at Alexander City's Top reason for her stay in Flight Gymnastics; Below, left to right: Kylie pushes off the beam; Alexander City. throws her weight back; goes The Dicksons have into a tuck; inverts her position; longstanding ties to releases the tuck; and lands squarely on the 4-inch beam. the Lake Martin area.

Although Kylie was born in Georgia, parents Steve and Stacey Dickson were both raised in Alexander City and graduated from Benjamin Russell High School. Both sets of her grandparents have lived in the area; her maternal grandparents, Buck and Jane King, still reside at Willow Point. Acrobatics always came naturally to Dickson. She started gymnastics at the age of 3, when she attended a birthday party held at a gym. “One of the coaches saw her and said, ‘you should really consider getting that girl some formal classes,’” said Steve Dickson. They did so, and Kylie never looked back. She progressed quickly through the levels of gymnastics training. There are 10 levels in the Junior Olympic gymnastics program. Once a gymnast has mastered the skills needed for each level, he or she can choose to try out for the Elite level. This is similar to going professional in other sports. Elite gymnasts are eligible for national and international gymnastics competitions, including the Olympic trials, for which Dickson is currently training. Dickson achieved Elite status in the 2015 season, but her professional career really began a year earlier. In 2014, Kylie and her mother moved to Los Angeles, so she could train full-time at the All Olympia Gymnastics Center while her father stayed in Alabama to work. Steve Dickson swapped places with his wife, a teacher, when she returned to Alabama to work through the school year. In addition to missing one parent at a time, the move has separated Dickson from her two older brothers. “Kylie just saw one of her brothers at her recruiting trip to the University of Alabama. She hasn’t seen him in a year and a half,” said Steve Dickson. “It’s difficult, but it goes with the territory.” The Dicksons turned their lives upside down to help their daughter achieve gymnastics mastery, and their sacrifices weren’t lost on Kylie. “I feel really honored. They don’t have to do all this stuff, but they do,” she said. “I love them, and I can’t thank them enough.”

Lake Martin Living 21

all of my dreams so far: becoming an Elite, making it to Dickson has made many sacrifices of her own. She Classics, competing internationally,” she said. trains between three and seven hours per day, six days But Dickson hasn’t let success go to her head. She is a week. This training includes running, stretching and focused on her next challenge: passing the Olympic trials conditioning work followed by practice in specific to represent Belarus at the next Olympic Games. events, such as the balance beam, uneven bars and vault. Dickson already has To fit schoolwork into dual citizenship with her training schedule, Belarus after representing Dickson joined a them in the World homeschool program. Championships. “I do a lot of Steve Dickson said the schoolwork on the practice of signing on weekends, so I can get athletes to compete for ahead. During the week, foreign teams is unusual I just do what I can in the in women’s gymnastics mornings,” she explained. but common in sports in Her schedule has general. left her little time for “When you get to a socializing, but Dickson certain level, it’s just what said she has managed to you do,” he said. strike a balance. Since Dickson said she is most of her friends concentrating on getting attend the gym where to the Olympic trials she works out, she said, and doing her best there. they get to see each other Meanwhile, she is ironing all the time. When she’s out her plans for college. not training, she loves “I’m dreaming of shopping and going to the doing a great job at the movies. University of Alabama,” Dickson said she has she said. received a lot of help from Dickson said she’d those closest to her. be happy to return to “A lot of it’s been Alabama for college family. They’re very because she feels at home supportive. They here. She is also looking understand everything forward to joining the that’s going on,” she said. University’s gymnastics While she credits her team. family and friends for “The atmosphere of support, there’s no doubt their gym is really nice,” that Dickson operates she said. “The coaches under her own steam. make you feel warm and “She’s a very goalwelcome, and the team is oriented child, and it’s great.” a great sport for that,” When she looks back said Steve Dickson. on her accomplishments “There’s always room for so far, Dickson said, it still improvement.” feels unreal. Dickson’s goal setting “I can’t believe it, and dedication to her Standing Tall actually. I thought it was dreams led her to a life The uneven bars are Kylie's favorite competitive event, and she has earned gold medals on the bars, as well as the vault and all a dream, and then, it she had previously only floor exercises. finally became a reality.” imagined. “I’ve accomplished 22 Lake Martin Living

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Going the Distance BRHS senior takes state title and finishes in top 2 percent at Mercedes Half Marathon

STORYâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6;BY ROBERT HUDSON & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

24 Lake Martin Living

ou may have noticed him last summer, putting during the week.” His interest in the sport stuck, and each summer he in the miles as he ran through town every prepared for the upcoming cross-country season by evening in a never-ending pursuit of success. running 10-12 miles each day. The 6 to 8 miles he ran – up Cherokee Road from “During the summer, you start with your base Central Alabama Community College to the chamber mileage. The second week of the of commerce, across town to the summer, I started training with gas station at K Street and back Opelika Cross Country,” Dean – led Benjamin Russell High said. “We started at 6 miles every School senior Dillon Dean to the single day. Every two weeks, we’d class 6A State Title last month, build up to add on 1 to 2 miles, and Dean keeps a long view of so by the end of the summer, we where he hopes running will take were putting in around 10-12 him in the future. miles a day. We’d do two-a-days, The state championship, Dean so we’d run 8 in the morning and said, was a great experience, 2 or 3 in the afternoon.” definitely a goal for which he After a summer of running worked hard and stretched to 40-50 miles a week, depending reach. A member of the BRHS on the workout schedule, he Cross Country team, Dean runs slacked back some – not a lot – each evening, hitting the same on the distance to focus on speed route every day, running toward Striving Daily Toward the Goal training. success at the end of the trail. Previous: Running 6-8 miles “Still, before a race, I would usually every day helps the BRHS “I run through town almost every senior condition for long go 8 miles steady on Monday; a 6-8 day. I’m sure a lot of people see me on distance races; Above: Dean mile workout on Tuesday; Wednesday Cherokee Road,” Dean said. “I always and Ruth Ann Ballard at the would be a comfortable 6 miles start at CACC and come up to the 2015 Tutu Run fundraiser. to get my body back to normal; high school; then, I go through the then, Thursday would be a 6-8 mile first entrance, up to the track, around workout, and Friday I did 3 easy miles to let my body the back of the school, and depending on how many miles I’m doing that day, I will go up to the chamber of recover before race day on Saturday,” Dean explained. “I love to run. I have a passion for it, but I do not commerce, and that’s 2 miles. Then, I retrace my way like to get out there every single day and push myself around back to CACC. If I’m doing 8 miles, I will do that but go up around the middle school; then, up to K through miles and miles,” he added. “It’s just like you don’t have a football player or a baseball player saying Street by the gas station and come back.” ‘I love practice.’ Nobody loves practice, but you love It’s a long route to the finish line, and every runner the results from it. Everybody loves Friday night has to start somewhere. Dean started back in middle football, and that’s just like for me, I love race day on school. Saturday.” “Going into my sixth grade year, my mom was Dean channeled his passion for running into a starting to train for a marathon, and she would try to desire to give back, supporting the community that get me to run with her, so I’d run with her every now supports him by running in 5K fundraising events and then,” Dean said. “I ran a 5K for the Alex City throughout the area. Methodist Church, and I ran a pretty good time. Ever “I do a few road races whenever I get a chance since then, I figured that I liked to run, but I didn’t to – a 5K or a 10K like the Russell Run, the Jingle know if I was going to be good at it or not.” for Tots or something in Auburn whenever it comes As his years in middle school wrapped up, Dean up,” Dean said. “I will probably also try to do another decided to see what cross-country competition would half marathon in the spring. I love to get out in the be like. “My eighth grade year, I decided to do cross country community and run at the things that they put on. Everyone in the community always supports me, so I and started putting in miles, not what my body was like to support them whenever they do stuff. Like, the used to, and I figured out that I was at least decent at Tutu Run and the Jingle for Tots; I know it’s going back running,” he said. “So, I decided to take that up, and to good things.” each year I’ve progressed in how many miles I put in Lake Martin Living 25

In his competitive career, Dean said he has placed a goal of getting better each race. Everyone wants to win every time they take the trail, he said, but he constantly reaches for the goal of competing at the next level. “Going through my ninth and 10th grade year, I’d place in around the top 10, top 15 or top 20. Before this year, I had only won one race and came in second in one race,” Dean said. “Everybody always thinks that I go to these races and win them, but I don’t. There are a lot of faster people out there than me. But this year, I’ve kind of had that breakthrough. I’ve placed first twice, second three times and 13th at a really big race.” To his credit, Dean’s 13th place finish put him in the top 5 percent in the Gold Division at The Jesse Owens Southeastern U.S. Classic 5K. He finished in the top 2 percent – 39th overall in a field of 3,461 – at this year’s Mercedes Half Marathon, and he finished second in the Crimson Classic 5K in Tuscaloosa. “Winning drives people, of course, and everyone wants to win, but really I kept everything focused on state,” Dean said. “I just knew that scholarshipwise and college-wise they’re going to look at the top five people. I knew that before every race, colleges are looking at this, and I just had to run as hard as I could at every single race. Luckily, I was able to pull out second place this year and first place finally.” Dean said another goal is to one day run a marathon. “Over the summer, I went to a camp, and I’ve always wanted to do a marathon. I think it’s a challenge for every single runner,” Dean said. “But I’ve been told not to do a full marathon until after college because, especially if you’re running in college, it takes at least a month for your body to recover after pushing yourself through 26.2 miles. I probably won’t do a full marathon until after college. But I will probably do a half if I can find one around every now and then.” Throughout every race he has run, Dean said, he has been thankful for those who have supported him. “I thank everybody who has supported me over the years, such as Christie Hanna, who was my coach when I first started, Michelle Tuggle, Pam Robinson and Paul Oswald,” Dean said. “They’ve all been there for me over the past three years since I’ve been in high school, helping me get better every day.” The next goal for Dean includes running at the college level, and he knows the foundation of his usual route through town is key to getting there. 26 Lake Martin Living

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Christmas Magic Dadeville home filled with holiday memories STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

he Treadwells each Christmas surround themselves with a collection of dolls from around the world, stuffed animals, angels, baby shoes and keepsake ornaments; not that the nativities, elves, Santas and children’s books are particularly valuable, said Karen Treadwell, but it’s the affections they evoke that the Dadeville family treasures. Mark Allen and Karen Treadwell have collected 20 years of Christmases in their Cusseta Street home, each year adding ornaments and memorabilia that bring to mind the joys the years have held for them. “Christmas is kind of my season,” Karen said. “I’ve collected since I was a child.” The books, angels and nativities with which Karen grew

up grace tables, mantels and furniture in the home where she started collections for her two daughters, collections with which, one day, Scout and Adeline also will fill their Christmas houses. Symbols of the love that will follow them all their lives, Karen said. As the Treadwells have cultivated a worldwide perspective for their children, traveling with them to great cities in the U.S., Europe and beyond, Styling the Season Left: A collection of toys and they have collected Christmas figurines greet small remembrances guests from an entryway of those places – table; Below: Tin soldiers 6 feet ornaments for their tall guard the entrance to the Treadwell's home. living room Christmas

Lake Martin Living 29

A Southern Holiday

Top Left: A glossy arrangement of camellias and evergreen boughs provides a new take on the seasonal centerpiece; Right: Dolls from around the world add sentimental value to the Christmas tree; Above: Cards and photos of friends far and near grace a doorway.

30 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 31

tree, dolls in native costumes and small statues of angels, sheep, elves and nativities. “Most of them aren’t expensive. They just spoke to us, and they remind us of the times we spent together in those places,” Karen explained. The dolls on the living room sofa are her favorites. They are from Germany, Alaska, Belgium, Hawaii and Holland, with more dolls tucked between them from other destinations. “My mom, Anne, has given me many of the dolls that I treasure,” Karen added. As she unpacks the treasures and arranges them for display in every room of the 3,600 square foot home each year, Karen adds greenery and other natural elements from her own gardens, as well Good Will to All as items she finds at local Above: The Treadwell's dog gift shops and florists. poses beside a holiday throw; Right: Souvenirs from She weaves cotton world travels decorate the blooms into the garland tree; Below: The Nativity at the front steps and ties scene on the sofa table is a particular favorite. magnolia leaves to the

32 Lake Martin Living

wreath on the door where a 6-foot metal nutcracker stands sentry. “I saw him one day when I was riding my bicycle,” Karen said. Among the keepsakes, she arranges holiday bows with sprays of red berries and camellias. Beneath the tree, a Raggedy Ann doll that Karen remembers from her own childhood sits in a rocking chair beside shoes that Scout and Adeline wore as children. The stockings that hang above the living room fireplace were made by Karen’s high school friend. The Treadwells’ home and furnishings lend nostalgia to the cozy atmosphere; though it was built in 1976, the previous owners had collected and reclaimed fixtures and finishes to achieve a historic style. “Winnie and Joe Thomas, the couple who built the house, for years collected all these things that they wanted to put in their home. They moved here from Georgia. He died shortly after moving into the home, so she lived in the house by herself for over 20 years,” Karen said. The Treadwells appreciate the care with which the

Lake Martin Living 33

Thomases chose items for their home. The patina of 6-inch heart pine floors and glass-knobbed doors, along with light fixtures salvaged from old homes and windows, crown mold and trims that are older than the home they built, blend with furnishings that once graced the homes of the Treadwells’ parents and grandparents. In the dining room, cedar boughs in the centerpiece fill the home with the season’s fragrance, as chair covers and table linens in classic white with soft blue monograms dress the table. They were handed down from Mark Allen’s mother, Joyce Marie, and will one day be passed to his daughter, Marie Anne (better known as Scout). There are monograms throughout the house – pillows and throws, wooden letters on shelves and keepsake dishes, another collection that Karen has carefully built and maintained for her daughters. In the den, gold boxes and glittered sprays, accented with bows and ribbons, add holiday cheer to the built-in bookcases that are filled with family photographs and stacks of old books, especially Bibles. The Treadwells are members of Dadeville’s First United Methodist Church, where Mark Allen sings in the choir. Of all the collections of ornaments and decorations, Karen said, it’s the religious pieces that the family treasures the most – the nativity from China that is displayed on the table just off the entry, the angels tucked among photographs and the variety of sheep nestled throughout the home. “Our faith is so important to the way we live,” Karen 34 Lake Martin Living

explained. “It is a big part of all of our celebrations.” Outside, understated decorations match the historic flair of the corner lot Festive Fun home – a wreath on Above: Christmas music the front gate, bows waits on the piano; Below: The front gate bears a on the lamp posts and welcoming wreath. greenery on the elegant porch, which is well-lit, so drivers-by can see the whimsical nutcracker and the smattering of decoration around him. The garden walls enclose beds of azaleas, boxwoods, cedar and camellias – traditional evergreens that lend Southern charm to the home’s classic style and carry the Treadwells’ home from one treasured family holiday to another all year long. “Christmas is kind of my season,” Karen said again and with smile added, “until Easter.”

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Candy Day STORY BY SAVANNAH HARRISON & PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS

aking holiday sweets isn’t just a pastime for Alexander City’s Jessica Sanford and her family. It’s a tradition. For 15 years, Sanford and her family and friends have gathered at the home of her grandmother, Nelda Jones, to spend the day listening to Christmas music and making treats. The family calls this tradition “Candy Day,” and it’s so well known that, come December, Sanford’s coworkers at Russell Medical Center are waiting with bated breath for the day following the event because Sanford delivers to them carefullypackaged bags of candy. “Candy Day started because my grandmother would get out her old recipe books, and she would look back at recipes her mom would make, such as fudge and divinity and pecan pralines,” Sanford explained. “She would spend the day making candy, and she shared it with the whole family.” According to Sanford, it wasn’t until the kids in the family started making special requests each year that Jones called in reinforcements, officially launching Candy Day. “She just set a date,” Sanford said.

36 Lake Martin Living

“The first year, it was just the women in the family. We spent the whole day making … well, you name it.” Now, Candy Day has grown to a party of 20, all of whom bring their

own baking supplies, including, Sanford said, “more powdered sugar than anyone would ever need.” While Sanford said the excess of candies produced is sometimes

comical – one year they made eight trays of fudge, including chocolate, peanut butter and pecan varieties – it’s a day that she cherishes. “I think it’s probably something that I kind of took for granted; then, I realized that my friends don’t all have that kind of family tradition,” said Sanford. “But for me, it starts the Christmas season. What better way to spend the day than with your family listening to Christmas music? It’s pretty special.” And it’s a special day that wouldn’t be possible without the love and efforts of the whole family, but perhaps the love and efforts of Jones most especially. “She really is the backbone of the family. I know everyone has grandmothers that they think are wonderful and great, but my grandmother surpasses every other grandmother,” Sanford said with a chuckle. “She is fun, and she is the life of the party. I am super biased, but I really don’t think there’s a better grandmother in this world than Nelda Jones.” Though Sanford admits to having a sweet tooth – particularly when it comes to chocolate fudge – it’s the family time that makes Candy Day a thing worth keeping alive each year, despite the mess and chaos of 20 busy bakers in one kitchen. “I wouldn’t trade one holiday Candy Day for the world, because I think it’s a time to reflect on how much my family means to me,” Sanford said. Keeping the Holidays Sweet

Left: Nelda Jones (left) started the first "Candy Day" 15 years ago, and now 20 family members join in the treatmaking, including Jessica Sanford, Wanda Toland and Elaine Patterson; Right: To start your own Candy Day tradition, invite friends and family to your own kitchen. Have them bring their own recipes or use this one to make Maw Maw's Favorite Fudge. Pack decorative boxes with a variety of treats for everyone to take home.

Maw Maw’s Favorite Fudge 3 cups sugar 3/4 cup butter or margarine 2/3 cup evaporated milk 12-ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips 7-ounce jar marshmallow crème 1 cup chopped pecans 1 teaspoon vanilla flavoring Mix sugar, butter and evaporated milk in a large saucepan over medium heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Bring to a full rolling boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until thoroughly combined. Add marshmallow crème, pecans and vanilla flavoring, stirring until mixed well. Pour fudge into 9x13 greased pan and let cool before cutting.

Lake Martin Living 37

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A new home for the holidays

in an underserved area of Alabama. r. John Adams, wife Kelly and children, James “I grew up in a small town and know first-hand the (3) and Ava (18 months) are enjoying their first importance of having access to great medical care. As a Christmas in their new home in Alexander family physician, I see a wide variety of medical issues City. Dr. Adams joined the medical staff in July upon and patients, which I like because each day is different. completing his residency in primary care medicine at I enjoy establishing relationships with my Tuscaloosa Family Medicine. The Adams have patients and improving the quality of their spent their first few months settling into their lives.” home, making new friends and preparing for Dr. Adams practices alongside Dr. Bob the arrival of baby Isaac, due any day. Edwards at Total Healthcare, located in the Dr. Adams says he and Kelly were hospital’s Professional Building. Dr. Edwards immediately drawn to the area due to several joined the RMC medical staff in 2014, and factors. together they are building a bustling primary “There is a great sense of community in care medical practice. Alexander City, and people take a lot of pride In his spare time, Dr. Adams enjoys SEC in the town,” states Dr. Adams. “We looked at football, particularly his Auburn Tigers, and a lot of factors when trying to decide where lifting weights. to move and start a medical practice, and “More than anything, I enjoy spending time Alexander City checked everything off our list. Susan Foy with my family,” states Adams. “Kelly and I From the medical center to the quality of life like to spend our time at the house just playing aspects, we immediately felt like this a place with our kids.” we could set roots and raise a family.” They await with anticipation the arrival of their A native of Calera, Dr. Adams graduated from The new baby, and ringing in the New Year in their new University of North Alabama and received his medical neighborhood. degree from The University of Alabama School of “We are happy to be here,” he exclaims. “Everyone we Medicine. He says he chose primary care medicine have met has been so welcoming to us, and it seems like because he recognized the great need for primary care everywhere we go we see a familiar face.” across the country and felt a calling to make a difference Welcome home, Adams family! To honor a special person in your own family this holiday season, consider dedicating a light on our Holiday Tree of Lights. This tree has been proudly displayed in the Russell Medical Center lobby for the last 25 years. Lights may be purchased in honor or memory of a special person for $5.00 each. All recognitions are placed in the Book of Honor located next to the tree. Proceeds from the Tree of Lights are used to purchase special equipment for Russell Medical Center. The Holiday Tree of Lights project is sponsored by the Russell Medical Center Auxiliary, a volunteer organization committed to enhancing the quality of care delivered to our patients through their donation of time, talents and financial support. For information regarding volunteer opportunities, or to Celebrating New Life donate to the Tree of Lights, Left: Dr. Adams and his family are looking please contact Volunteer forward to their lives in Coordinator Janet Gilliland at Alexander City and the 256-329-7322. birth of their third child.

Medical News

Lake Martin Living 39

Benefits of Cash Value Loans

Understanding how it works is the key to making it work for you

MONEY MATTERS

orrowing against cash value of life insurance is a very hot topic. Many do not understand how it works and many more, who may think they understand it, have been misled to believe it has magical powers. Cash value is the value assigned to the policy by the insurance company. This cash value can do many things, but for the sake of this article, we are going to talk about the borrowing aspect only. Karen Jennings Many think the money itself is borrowed, as if that money is physically removed from the policy, but that is incorrect. Look back at the first two words of this article: “Borrowing against.” When you, the owner of the policy, ask the life insurance company for a loan from cash value, they do not physically remove that money from your cash value; instead, they use your cash value as collateral and send you their money. The insurance company has a pool of money set aside just for this purpose. When they do this, they in turn charge you an interest rate for using their money. The best part of this is your money has remained in cash value, continuing to grow (by earning a guaranteed rate) all while using the insurance company’s money. In simple terms, your money continues to grow while you are able to use someone else’s money. Interest Charged by the Company Now some people have been led to believe the interest being paid back to the company increases their cash value. This is not true; the insurance company keeps any interest they charge you. Let’s say the insurance company charged you 5 percent interest on your loan. Then all 5 percent of that interest money goes back to the insurance company as a profit to them. It is no different than interest going to a bank as profit. If you are practicing the Infinite Banking Concept and pay back that loan at 7 percent, then yes, 2 percent of that interest goes back to you because it’s above what you were charged by the company. Many people get upset because the company charges them to use their money. If this is you, then you’d probably better be upset with the local bank as well. When you put money in savings and then go get a loan, they just lent you your own money at a much higher rate than what they are paying you on your savings account.

40 Lake Martin Living

Paying Back The next question is always, “When does it have to be paid back?” The answer to that is yet another luxury of this Infinite Banking Concept. The life insurance company does not set terms and conditions for that money to be paid back, that decision is left up to the owner to decide. Now don’t go thinking the money doesn’t ever have to be paid back: It does. Kay Thomas When you are young, it is imperative the policy loan gets paid back; however, if you decide to make payments over 10 years instead of five, that is ok. If you decide to pay it yearly instead of monthly, that is ok too. Just be an honest banker and pay that loan back. The life insurance company does not worry about an outstanding loan because they have your death benefit as collateral to that loan repayment. There is one thing in life that is for sure, and that is death. The life insurance company knows death will occur at some time, and they will collect upon your death if the loan is not paid sooner. For example, if there is a $50,000 loan against cash value and the death benefit is $250,000, your heirs would get $200,000 upon your death, and the life insurance company will keep the other $50,000 for repayment. It is a secured loan; what institution does not like a secured loan? We instruct our clients thusly: If you can’t make a payment on the loan, at least pay the interest for that year. You do not want to keep interest accumulating, as it could increase to unsustainable levels. Even better yet, if you used the cash value to make all your purchases, all your debt is in one spot. Upon your death, your heirs would get the remaining death benefit and be free of any debt for the loan. It makes for a very clean place to have debt. No banks coming after the heirs at a time when they are dealing with much bigger things and mourning your loss. In summary, borrowing from a policy is a great living benefit, but it is not free money and you do have to be responsible. Working with a certified Infinite Banking expert is so important when you take policy loans. This is not something to blow off. You must understand how it works, as that is the most important part of the Infinite Banking Concept. ~ Wealth management consultants Kay Thomas and Karen Jennings can be reached at 256-329-0003.

OH SNAP! 1

Alabama/Auburn Tailgate November 29, 2015 Kowaliga Restaurant 1. Betty Barnett, Jamie Dark and Laurie Sturdivant

2. Libby Glass, Sarah Clegg and Scooter Copeland 3. Cliff Young and Weil Thornburg 4. Diane and John James 5. Charles Copeland, Billy Harrison and Wally Darneille 6. Buddy King and Fred George 7. Joyce and Ronnie Knox 8. Sandra Homell, David Scott and Phyllis and Larry McAnally

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OH SNAP! 1

3 4

Holiday Open House November 15, 2015 Downtown Alexander City 1. Rebecca Anderson and Lexy Oliver 2. Palmer and Greenlee Peppers and Tucker the Dog 3. Catherine, Wendell and Lily Scroggins 4. Teresa Crabtree, Mel Albright, Roger Holliday and Kathi Odom 5. Maggie Ruff and Georgia Dennis 6. Chante, Myles, Ryleigh and Ryann Ruffin

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OH SNAP! 1

PATHFinders Poker Walk November 24, 2015 MainStreet Alexander City 1. Chris, Mallory and Amy Landers 2. Janice Lynn, Cindy Ballard and Ella MacFiggen

3. Cindy Holliday and Emily McDaniel 4. Mary Wood Perry 5. Lola Popov and Joyce Reeves 6. Sara Blizzard and Gen Williamson 7. Chris and Barbara Spivey and Dan Replogle

Lake Martin Living 43

OH SNAP! 2

Lake Martin Young Professionals Kickoff Party November 4, 2015 USAmeribank, Alexander City

1. Mathieu Nader, John and Lacey Howell, Emily Guill 2. Mack Jackson and Scott Hardy 3. Chelsea Lutz and Deidra Baird 4. Chris Gaston, Jeffrey and Amanda Hardy 5. Mark Worthy and Ken Peters 6. Matt Sheppard, Kevin Speaks, Lee Williams, Scott Meacham

44 Lake Martin Living

OH SNAP! 1

Thanks-for-Giving Awards Lunch November 21, 2015 6

Dadeville Recreation Center 1. Barbie Buchanan and Lisa Heard 2. Andrea, Fred, Fred Jr. and Josh Hutcherson and Omari Penn 3. Karrington Lewis, Valencia Pitts and Presterika McAdory 4. Valerie Pitts and Sgt. Willie D. Traylor 5. Kenyatta and Jannardus Simmons 6. Shelley and James Morgan, Ethel Williams, Joseph Walker and Kerry Pitts

Lake Martin Living 45

THE LAKE REGION

Calendar FEATURED EVENT

Register now for Miss Outlook Pageant each entrant's on-stage Registration forms for the introduction. 2016 Miss Outlook Pageant “The pageant helps young are now available at The Alex women build up confidence City Outlook, The Wetumpka in themselves,” explained Herald and The Tallassee assistant coordinator Elisha Tribune. The annual pageant Smith. “Especially the will be held at the Benjamin interview. Each time you do Russell High School an interview, you get a little Auditorium January 22 and better.” 23 with a ‘Classic Black & In addition to an onWhite’ theme. stage introduction, the Girls will compete in competition includes an four age divisions: Petite interview with judges. Miss, ages 4 through second Each entrant also is grade; Little Miss, third photographed by Kenneth grade through sixth grade; Boone, and the photos are Junior Miss, seventh grade featured in the pageant through ninth grade; and calendar, which will include Miss Outlook, 10th through local event information 12th grades. throughout the year. The winner of the Miss Girls from outside the Outlook title will receive Passing On the Crown a full tuition Ambassador Carli Jewel Price is crowned Junior Miss Outlook 2015 by local area are encouraged 2014 winner Maggie Lynn Daniel. In January, Price will to apply, and every entrant scholarship to Central give the crown to the 2016 victor. wins a title. Seasonal and Alabama Community College. monthly titles are awarded, and Additional prizes may also include gift certificates from local boutiques or a cash award. photographs of the winners will be featured throughout the year in The Outlook. Entry fee for the pageant is $150, and the fees can be paid Entry forms are due Jan. 8, 2016. by up to two sponsors per entrant. For information, contact Smith at 256-276-9772. Sponsors can be commercial or individual and are listed in the pageant program and announced during 46 Lake Martin Living

LAKE REGION EVENTS Dec. 15

Art Association of Central Alabama

Meet at 10:30 a.m. at the Lake Martin Area United Way. Artistic technique in painting, drawing and other arts taught at each meeting. For information, call Martha McKnight 256-825-6503 or Jerri Hallmark 256825-0595.

Dec. 20

Christmas Cantata

Hillabee Baptist Church will present its Christmas Cantata at 6 p.m. This free event is open to everyone.

Dec. 21

Christmas at Mamie’s

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City is celebrating Christmas with holiday movies and hot chocolate at 10 a.m. and again at 3 p.m. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call 256-234-4644.

Jan. 16

Alice in Wonderland

Missoula Children’s Theatre will bring their production of Alice in Wonderland at the Tallassee High School Auditorium at 5:30 p.m. This whimsically madcap, fun-filled fantasy is entertainment for the whole family. Follow Alice as she wanders through a terrific adventure into the zany world of Wonderland, complete with truly unforgettable characters – white rabbits, mad hatters, homicidal queens and a misguided jabberwocky! Can Alice save them all? Or is this just a dream? Tickets are $10 for adults; $5 for children. For information, call Mona Mills at 334-201-4892.

Jan. 19

Art Association of Central Alabama

Meet at 10:30 a.m. at the Lake

Martin Area United Way. Artistic technique in painting, drawing and other arts taught at each meeting. For information, call Martha McKnight 256-825-6503 or Jerri Hallmark 256-825-0595.

Jan. 22

Mardi Gras Auction

St. James Episcopal Church will host live and silent auctions at this inaugural event to support the Feast of Sharing ministry, which provides free meals twice a week at First United Methodist Church to some 100 people in need. Auction items will include original art, a Russell Marine wakeboarding package, framed photography by Kenneth Boone, handmade pottery items, a vacation at the beach for the whole family, the Rev. Rob Iler’s handyman services for a day and more. There will be beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages, hors d’oeuvres, desserts and entertainment. Tickets are $25 per person and can be reserved by calling St. James Episcopal Church at 256-234-4752. For information, contact Heidi Ross at 256-794-7010 or Susan Mange at 601-431-8239.

Season-Long Events Library Storytime

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

Electronics Recycling

The City of Alexander City Public Works Department will host an electronics recycling event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month in conjunction with the Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership. Electronics contain a number of harmful chemicals. The

events give citizens a chance to get rid of old and outdated electronics without risking the water supply by sending them to a landfill. Items accepted include desktop or laptop computers, computer mouse, keyboards, modems or routers, CDs and DVDs, power supplies, PC mix systems, home or cell phones, printers or copiers, mainframe servers, TVs, audio/ video adapters, laptop chargers, cable boxes and nickel cadmium or lithium ion batteries. There is a $10 fee per television. For more information, call Sabrina Wood at 334-429-8832 or Amanda Thomas at 256-409-2020.

Children’s Harbor Thrift Store

Located at Children’s Harbor at Lake Martin on Highway 63, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children's Hospital. Call 334-8572008 for more information.

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.

Lake Martin Living 47

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

Power lines

280

U.S. Highways County Roads

Alexander City Flint Hill Church

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

Rockford

128

COOSA COUNTY

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

Piney Woods Landing

Jacksons Gap

Pleasant Grove Church

Mt. Zion Church

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Friendship Church Liberty Church

Smith Landing Willow Point

4 Camp Kiwanis

Church in The Pines Trillium

1 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor Ko

10 19 9

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

The Amp

lig

22 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Stillwaters

Union Landing

Walnut Hill

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

5 63 16 6

Equality

Seman

New Hope Church

231

Dadev

280

Union

Central

Red Hill

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

Eclectic

Santuck

Kent Reeltown

120

231

ELMORE COUNTY Wetumpka

48 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUNT

Lake Martin Region

Daviston 22

Marinas 11. Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 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

hoe Bend nal Park

42. Real Island Marina 334-857-2741 270 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Restaurants

CHAMBERS COUNTY

ville

ON TY

56. SpringHouse 256-215-7080 12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 66. Catherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market 256-215-7070 17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 76.Homeplate Cafe 256-825-0583 191 East South St., Dadeville, AL 36853

Camp Hill

Business & Shopping

84 Tallapoosa Ford 256-234-3432 1551 Hwy. 280, Alex City, Al 35010 95. Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481 5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, Al 35010

280

Waverly 50

10 4. Patterson Air 256-825-8600 334-850-3500 8400 Kowaliga Road, Lake Martin 11 4. Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036 230 Lee Road 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

4. Artistic Teak Traders 12 256-896-1111 334-559-6625 1405 Old Hwy 280, Camp Hill, AL 36850

LEE COUNTY

4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 14 334-541-2132 1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Building Supply 15 256-825-4256 350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 16 256-794-1333 111 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 . Dark Insurance 17 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 18 . McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583 1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010 . Kowaliga Whole Health & Pet Care Resort 19 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024

Hotels & Lodges 20 34. Creekside Lodge & Conference and Event Center 256-307-1440 6993 Hwy. 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 21 34. Cherokee Bend Bed & Breakfast 877-760-7854 5833 Hwy 22 E, Alex City, AL 35010

Churches 34. Red Ridge United Methodist Church 22 256-825-9820 8091 County Rd 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 23 34. Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 334-252-8618 2602 Gilmer Avenue, Tallassee, AL 36078 (12 miles South of Lake Martin)

Dock Builders 3. Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc 24 Marine Construction Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443 180 Birmingham Road, Eclectic, AL 36024

4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 13 256-234-2567 1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

Loachapoka 14

Notasulga 85

If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-234-4281.

Lake Martin Living 49

50 Lake Martin Living

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

Templeton Plantation Pet Hotel & Grooming Spa

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.

Where your pets have a room instead of a cage! By Appointment Only: 256-794-0401

Beautiful skin, Beautiful you • Spa Facials • Acne • Anti Aging/Chemical Peels • Full Body Waxing First time customers will receive a FREE eyebrow wax with your spa service.

480.636-6015 getcrystalclearskin.com Inside Durbin Chiropractic 1101 Cherokee Road Alex City, Al 35010

To Advertise in the Business Directory section of Lake Martin Living please contact one of our Sales Representatives @ 256-234-4281 Lake Martin Living 51

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

Alex City Marine Aliant Bank American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Que Campus of CACC Carlisle's 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 El Rancho Grande 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 Larry’s General Store

52 Lake Martin Living

Little Black Dress 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 Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

DADEVILLE

American Motorsports Aliant Bank Bay Pine Marina City Hall

Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foodland Foshee Boat Dock 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 Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34

ECLECTIC

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

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

KELLYTON

Five Star Plantation

RED HILL Citgo

TALLASSEE

Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce The Tallassee Tribune

WALNUT HILL

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA

The Wetumpka Herald A limited number of magazines are available at these locations. To be sure a copy is reserved for you, call David Kendrick at 256-2344281 to start your subscription.

AD INDEX 1st Insurance................................................................... 8

East Alabama Medical Center................................... 5

Millstone Nursery........................................................76

A&M Plumbing............................................................... 6

European Skull Mounts.............................................51

Music Depot..................................................................51

Alabama Street Makers Market..............................10

Four Seasons Irrigation.............................................51

Patterson Air..................................................................27

Alex City Guide Service.............................................10

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

Radney Funeral Home...............................................38

Alex City Taxi & Shuttle.............................................51

Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance......................51

River Bank & Trust........................................................35

Bob Alexander Landscaping...................................26

Holley's Home Furnishings.....................................11

Russell Medical Center..............................................56

Brown Nursing Home.................................................. 6

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art......................18

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

C&C Wood Products...................................................10

Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance...............................51

Southern Sash................................................................ 8

Carlisles...........................................................................38

Kelleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heating & Air.................................................51

Tallassee Community Hospital...............................53

Com-Link, Inc.................................................................. 8

Lagasse Construction Inc.........................................38

Templeton Plantation................................................51

Crystal Clear Skin.........................................................51

Lake Martin Community Hospital........................... 3

Thomas Self Storage..................................................38

Darwin Dobbs..............................................................23

Lake Martin Dock.................................................13, 51

Ware Jewelers...............................................................55

DAVCO Development................................................51

Lakeside Concierge....................................................55

Designs by Trish...........................................................76

Mark King's Furniture................................................... 2

Lake Martin Living 53

Looking for Love

Local lines that will land you a date this Christmas

Girl, are we in downtown Alex City? here’s nothing worse than being ‘Cuz you got me on Cloud Nine! lonely during the holidays. Don’t They call me Bar-B-Q, ‘cuz I’m a “Good worry; I am here to help. Ol’ Boy” that “Sho ‘Nuff ” likes a “Big B.” This article goes out to all the single Is your name Jackson’s Gap? ‘Cuz it’d people in the Lake Martin area this take a state trooper to get me to stop holiday season. We’ve all been there a seeing you! time or two (or 20). It’s Christmas. You’re You must be Buck’s Dairy Quick ‘cuz alone, and you’re looking for someone you were hard to find, but I am glad I did! to share a stocking with. You’re as lonely Babe, you’re like the Russell Outlet: as Sand Island watching pontoon boats High quality but just cheap enough for zoom by on a summer’s day. me. “But Luke!” you exclaim, “I am terrible Is your name Chimney Rock? ‘Cuz at dating. And especially terrible at dating Luke Robinson I want to show you to my out-of-town people from around this region!” friends and climb all over you. Frankly, I don’t doubt that. I have seen We must be on Main Street ‘cuz I am dying to see you. You do have some issues. you in a Little Black Dress. My bet, though, is that you have been using a lot Am I seeing an angel? The last time I saw wings of big-city, Lifetime Channel dating techniques and that pretty, I was at JR’s Sports Bar and Grill! come-ons. Those will never work in our neck of the You must be Kowaliga Bridge ‘cuz I want to get woods. under you and scream. The key to snagging a date in these parts this Sweetheart, they call me Idletime Bowling Alley Christmas is to use Alexander City-themed pick-up and Family Center ‘cuz I’m lots of fun when I’m lines. Those will be sure to add a little open fire to rollin’, but sometimes I wind up in the gutter. your chestnuts. Do you work at the Musclecar Museum? ‘Cuz you “But Luke,” you rudely jump in again, “I don’t make my heart go vroom! have any of those!” You must be Sonic ‘cuz I am a slush in your hands. Well, if you’ll stop interrupting me, I’ll give you a Are you a student at Central Alabama Community few Lake Martin-related pick-up lines that will soon College? ‘Cuz you have the gateway to my heart. have you renting a sleigh with a loveseat. You must be from Goat Island ‘cuz I want you Before we get started, it’s probably best we go over baaaaad! a few checklist items prior to your trying out any of Are you the Rodeo Club? ‘Cuz I won’t remember a my suggestions: thing after I leave you. First, be sure to have some mistletoe in your If you can’t make the magic happen after using pocket because if you use these lines correctly, these poetic gems, you ought to consider changing you’ll be doing more kissing than a mayor at a baby deodorants. convention. Merry Christmas, everyone! Second, use these lines before you have too much spiked eggnog; otherwise, they may – I repeat may – ~ Luke Robinson is an Alexander City native who also be misinterpreted by members of the opposite sex. writes a weekly sports column for The Alexander City Lastly, it wouldn’t hurt to wear mace-proof Outlook. contacts. Just in case. That said, here are this season’s best pick-up lines to use in the Lake Martin area:

54 Lake Martin Living

The Last Word

TAG HEUER CARRERA CALIBRE HEUER 01

Four world championships and two league MVP awards. Forty-six game winning drives. The longest winning streak in NFL history. Tom Brady is a champion, and champions never crack under pressure.

111 South College Street • Auburn, AL • 334.821.7375 The Shoppes at EastChase • Montgomery, AL • 334.386.9273 Eastern Shore Centre • Spanish Fort, AL • 251.338.9273 www.warejewelers.com

Lake Martin Living 55

56 Lake Martin Living