Lake Martin Living 1
THIS IS COMMUNITY. THIS IS YOUR MUSEUM. THIS IS AUBURN.
JCSM.AUBURN.EDU 2 Lake Martin Living
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From the Editor
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he prayer book that I carry to church every Sunday includes a petition for young people that I say for my children every day, but it’s not uncommon for me to change a few words and utter it for myself on occasion. My favorite line of the entreaty asks that failures are viewed not as a measure of worth but rather as opportunities to start fresh. That’s what every New Year does for us. That change of date offers us the opportunity to put aside past failures and approach life’s challenges with the proverbial clean slate. Those previously elusive dreams of losing weight, getting more involved in the community and developing yet undiscovered talents hold great promise in the light of a New Year’s sunrise. But our fresh starts require first steps if they’re ever to succeed, so in this month’s issue of Lake Martin Living, we hope to help you take those first steps. You’ll find articles on living more healthfully on pages 10, 24 and 32, because the number one New Year’s resolution in the U.S. is to get fit. The Business Matters story on page 10 introduces you to an intense workout program that promises results while on page 24, Mia Osborn offers a few options for shedding some of the stress that keeps us up at night. And the article on page 32 couples the getting fit resolution with another to save money by comparing the cost of losing weight with the cost of maintaining those extra pounds. Spoiler Alert: Despite the gym membership fees, cost of healthy food and new clothes after losing the weight, getting fit is cheaper. If you want to get involved in the community, turn to page 36 and meet the Young Professionals who recently made their own fresh start with a purposeful mission and a slate of new activities and programs to benefit local charities. To get motivated, check out the stories on pages 16 and 28 and meet some children and adults who have embraced new hobbies and discovered talents they hadn’t dreamed they owned. And this year, I’ll change the words of that prayer to include you, too. Happy New Year from Lake Martin Living and from me. God our Father, you see [the people of this community striving toward important goals in the New Year]: Show them that your ways give more life than the ways of the world, and that following you is better than chasing after selfish goals. Help them to take failure, not as a measure of their worth, but as a chance for a new start. Give them strength to hold their faith in you, and to keep alive their joy in your creation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. ~ The Book of Common Prayer; Church Publishing Inc., New York; 1982; p. 829
Betsy Iler, Managing Editor Correction: The Candy Day article in last month's issue included an incomplete fudge recipe. On the facing page, we've corrected the errors, and we hope the omissions didn't inconvenience our readers. 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 Kevin Speaks Magazine Distribution Manager David Kendrick Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Hallie Holloway Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Kim Morse Emily Guill Debbie DeWildt 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 Feel free to contact members of our Reader Advisory Board. Lake Martin Living is published monthly by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-2344281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.
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.
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IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 10. BUSINESS MATTERS Frontline Fitness 12. HAPPY GARDEN 18. FROM THE TEE 20. OUTDOOR LIFE 39. MEDICAL NEWS 40. MONEY MATTERS 41. OH SNAP! 46. LAKE REGION EVENTS 54. THE LAST WORD
FEATURES 16. FOR THE BIRDS P iedmont Plateau Photo contest winners are all-in-the family 24. STRESS AND SLEEP T urning off the stress and finally getting a good night's rest 28. STITCH BY STITCH J ackson's Gap artist paints with thread
16
Cathy Goss' portrait of a pine warbler took top honors in the 2015 Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail Photo Contest.
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32. WEIGH THE COST G etting thin is less expensive than staying fat 36. YOUNG PROFESSIONALS P oised to make a positive impact in the community
ON THE COVER Sherry Watkins' thread painted quilt, Chat Preux, took an honorable mention in last year's Lake Martin Living Art & Photography Contest, prompting us to take a closer look at how she created three-dimensional effects on the two-dimensional fabric. Photo by Kenneth Boone
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AROUND THE AREA
Local grocery store earns commendation Klenton and Kamala McLemore, who own and operate the New Site Foodland grocery store, were named Alabama’s Employer of the Year by the Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities after they made accommodations for employee, Ranley Clayton. Injured in an ATV accident in 2004, Clayton was able to return to work because the McLemores made renovations to give her better access to the job site. The McLemores called state officials to get some direction and the specifications of what would work for Clayton. They worked with contractors and others to get things set and when a determined Clayton was ready to return last January, just a little over five months after her crash, the store was ready for her.
The McLemores were nominated for the award for the East Alabama district in October. After winning the award for the district, a panel selected their story as the statewide winner. Clayton said that knowing she had a place to work was a tremendous help as she drove herself through the healing process. She now handles clerical tasks for the store, including price changes and hanging sales tags. She said none of that would have been possible without the caring of the McLemores. “They are incredible people,” Clayton said. “I never expected them to do all this. I really appreciate it. It’s been great
Back to Work
Five months after a serious accident, Ranley Clayton returned to her job at a local store when the owners made renovations to accommodate those with disabilities.
to be able to be back at work. I don’t work quite as much as I did before the accident, but none of this would have been possible without them.” ~Mitch Sneed
Salvation Army brings in record holiday haul
Playing on the Big Field
Local middle school football teams recently played a friendly game at the Georgia Dome.
The Alexander City branch of the Salvation Army saw more donations than usual this holiday season. “Just throughout red kettles, we raised $32,479.41,” said Tabatha Glassburn, director of the Alexander City Salvation Army Service Center. That’s up 13 percent from last year’s red-kettle total. In addition, Glassburn said that all angels were adopted from this year’s Salvation Army Angel Tree, through which gifts are given to children whose families can’t afford to purchase Christmas presents.
Glassburn said that the extra money from the kettle campaign would allow the Salvation Army to increase its services when there is a need, such as doing more through its Apple Tree program that, akin to the Angel Tree program, provides school supplies to children whose families aren’t able to purchase them. “In all, we helped 213 children’s Christmas wishes be realized this year,” said Glassburn. ~David Granger Lake Martin Living 9
BUSINESS MATTERS
Frontline STORY BY MIA OSBORN AND PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS
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or most, the term “CrossFit” brings up a mental image of something akin to boot camp: people sweating through grueling workouts while burly instructors yell at them. It’s not a picture that makes the average person want to run out and buy a gym membership. But at Frontline Fitness in Alexander City, Staff Sergeants Steven and Sofia Denney are out to change the stereotypes of typical CrossFit instructors. They have already challenged the model of the typical romance. “We actually met in drill sergeant school,” said Sofia Denney. “The school was two months long, and literally by graduation day we were ready to get married and have a white picket fence.” The two spent their first year of marriage serving drill 10 Lake Martin Living
instructor duty at different forts. When they were finally able to settle down, the Denneys came to the area. Steven, a native of Our Town, thought Alexander City would be a great place to start up an independent, locally-owned gym. The Denneys offer personalized training and a variety of classes at Frontline, but they are probably best known for CrossFit. The Frontline Fitness CrossFit group is the largest in the area, with classes offered five days a week. CrossFit is a mix of aerobics, body weight exercises and weightlifting that has become a popular training program for police academies and professional athletes. Started by Coach Greg Glassman in the late 1990s, CrossFit classes are now
Fitness Fit for Life
Above: Steven coaches a CrossFit class in which members work at their own skill levels; Right: Steven and Sofia met in drill instructor training school in the U.S. Army.
offered in more than 10,000 gyms across America and the world. “The CrossFit environment is not just about the workout. Everybody’s very team-oriented, everybody’s motivating each other,” added Sofia. That motivation is often needed. CrossFit classes are short by most gym standards, but they use movements that work many muscle groups at once, resulting in intense workouts that can
seem intimidating for those unfamiliar with the concept. But the Denneys want to break away from the idea that CrossFit is for people who are already in peak condition. “We’re not going to turn somebody away who’s made the choice to be fit,” said Sofia. CrossFit exercises can be tailored to anyone, regardless of fitness level or health issues. In fact, Steven and Sofia say their classes have helped members with joint pain and heart trouble to be more comfortable in their daily lives. “CrossFit is functional fitness. We work on flexibility and mobility,” said Steven. He and Sofia also offer their clients advice about nutrition and ways to improve overall health, such as teaching office workers the best way to align their spines as they sit at their desks to prevent back problems down the road. This personal approach to fitness extends beyond class time. The Denneys have formed friendships with many Frontline Fitness members. They have also made a splash in the community by hosting the area’s first ever Turkey Trot Beer Run and Craft Beer Festival in November 2015. The Denneys hope to hold another festival in the spring of 2016. For now, they are focused on accommodating those new members by moving the gym from its original location on Cherokee Road and into the Alexander City Shopping Center next to Roses at 553 Alexander City Shopping Center, Alexander City. They believe the larger space will help Frontline Fitness move forward to bigger and better things for themselves and the town as a whole. “With our members, we’re family,” said Sofia. Frontline Fitness is open Monday through Friday from 5:15 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.frontlinefitt. com. Lake Martin Living 11
A Beautiful Garden Tour
12 Lake Martin Living
Happy Garden
Fred Muenzmay Lake Martin Living 13
M
y doctor recently told me, “Fred, you’re going to need some surgery, and you will have to take some time to allow for healing.” I don’t think anyone likes to hear that, especially old gardeners. My wife and I made the most of this down time by calling a friend whom we had promised to visit, and off to Lake Martin we went. Jerry and Marese Rayfield live in the River Oaks neighborhood on the northern part of the lake. The Rayfields designed their home to accommodate the water view and to showcase their love of plants, which they have displayed around their garden in beautiful pottery and urns. The topography of Lake Martin presents a wonderland for architects, builders and designers, and River Oaks is no different. As we drove past one beautiful property after another, we saw homes built into hillsides, homes with driveways that curved into figure eights, homes surrounded by gardens with hidden waterfalls and more. The Rayfields’ land is a reflection of the owners’ interests. We had never visited this lovely couples’ home, but we had talked to them many times about their collection of unique plants and flowers and how they were presented throughout their property. As soon as we drove up, I got a sense of how much time and thought had gone into the creation of the residence. We parked in the driveway and were greeted by Jerry and Marese. As we walked around the side of the house, the land dipped steeply and the lake became visible on our left side. Plant-filled pottery
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Lush Landscaping
The tropical blooms of a golden shrimp plant add visual interest to the Rayfields' garden.
and flowering shrubs screened the view of the water, allowing extra privacy. The entrance to the residence was designed at the end of a lovely walking garden. As we neared the Rayfields’ front door, the sidewalk transitioned into a stepping-stone path. This pathway is always in shade, due to the trees above the rock retaining wall. Every shrub and flower in this garden is a marvelous sight. Every part of it has been hand selected, planted and maintained by this retired gardening couple. In landscape design lingo, structural elements, such as walkways, fences, walls and yard art – including fountains and birdbaths – are referred to as “the garden’s bones.” If you maintain good bones throughout your garden, what you see from your kitchen window will be just as important and lovely as what you see from the street. When these design elements are used well, they send messages of welcome and invite visitors to see more of what is down the path. The Rayfields began their garden plan by defining their garden’s bones, including the foot-friendly walkway and the retaining wall of rustic, irregularly stacked stones, which created the look of a terrace.
Marese and Jerry spent many years purchasing unique plants, shrubs and pottery to accent and blend into the corridor effect created in the walking garden. Entering this garden invoked a feeling of high energy due to flowers in shades of orange, red and yellow. These warm colors created a festive atmosphere. Pale pastel flowers would have disappeared in the shade, but the rich color in this garden allowed light and shade to change the mood of the place from morning to evening hours. In addition to using flowers, the Rayfields utilized yard art, such as colorful bird feeders, to create a stunning color scheme. The intermingling of flowering and culinary herbs lent an earthy feel to the garden, and sweet scents coming from plants beckoned guests to take a second look. The Rayfields’ use of pottery allowed for change of plant materials without the use of pick and shovel. This easy access design minimizes bending over when weeding and tending to the plants in general, leading to a low maintenance garden. I am reminded once more that when you enjoy your hobby and love to work with plants, you can create something beautiful. What else is left but happiness? Drop me a line if you have some landscaping or gardening tips. By the way, I am on the mend and looking to plant a winter garden. Happy and 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.
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Lake Martin Living 15 10/12/15 11:36 AM
For the Birds Photo contest winners are all-in-the-family STORY & PHOTO BY MIA OSBORN
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our photographers from the same family picked up top awards in the 2015 Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail photo contest, proving that the egg really doesn’t fall far from the nest. Glenn and Cathy Goss of Alexander City have been avid bird photographers since they took up bird watching two years ago. Last year, their two oldest grandchildren got cameras for Christmas, and the pair of photographers turned into a flock. Cousins Hank and Emily Simmons, both 7, have enjoyed teaming up with their grandparents to search for birds on the weekends and during school breaks. “I have 1,000 pictures on my camera,” Hank boasted. It’s not an exaggeration. Cathy Goss estimated that she and her husband spend about 25 hours per week taking 700-plus photos, and the kids aren’t far behind. “We’re retired,” said Goss. “We’ve gotten completely obsessed with photography.” Their interest has paid off with awards spanning two regions and age groups. Glenn’s photo of an eastern kingbird won first place in the Piedmont Plateau division, while Cathy’s portrait of a pine warbler netted the award for the Wiregrass region. Hank won in the junior division for his picture of a redheaded woodpecker, and Emily received Honorable Mention with an image of a gray pigeon nestled on a windowsill at Central Alabama Community College. The awards ceremony took place last month at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, where Joanne Ninesling, 16 Lake Martin Living
chairwoman of the Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail, presented the four with their awards. The junior photographers also received special gifts: a bird feeder and a guidebook to help them identify more of their feathered friends. This was the second annual photography contest sponsored by the Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail. Ninesling said she hopes the contest will continue to grow as more people become aware of the wealth of wildlife to be photographed across the state. “We want to bring attention to both the sites and the birds themselves,” said Ninesling. There are eight birding trails in Alabama, comprised of nearly 300 birding sites. That means there are plenty of chances for photographers to capture images of the state’s 430 avian species. All this is good news for the Goss/Simmons family. Hank
and Emily’s younger siblings have been inspired by the success and want to start taking photos, too, so this flock of birdwatchers apparently will continue to grow. The 2016 Birding Trail photography contest opened for submissions January 1, and photographs will be accepted through October 31. Photo entries can be of any bird or other wildlife but must be taken at official birding trail sites. Entries
A Flocking Family
Emily Simmons and her cousin Hank Simmons, along with their grandparents Glenn and Cathy Goss, won a bird guide and other prizes in the 2015 Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail Photo Contest.
can be emailed to ppbirdingtrail@gmail.com. For a complete list of Alabama’s birding trails and sites, visit www.alabamabirdingtrails.com. Lake Martin Living 17
Viva Las Vendors! An inside look at one of the sport’s most exciting conventions
T
From the Tee
learn that the author, Dr. David Cook, had he New Year always brings about published two new books that I will be new golf trinkets, gadgets, clubs purchasing and reading soon. and apparel that make us in the golf The company Game Golf upgraded industry wonder how we ever lived without their software, which marked a huge leap them. In early December, I traveled to Las forward for the already very successful golf Vegas for the annual convention of the Golf improvement aid. Coaches Association of America, where I Cleveland Golf is a big name that I got a sneak peek at some things that will be believe will soon disappear from the coming out this year. industry. Srixon, which acquired Cleveland What can I say about Las Vegas? It must Golf a few years back, is slowly putting their be the home of the oddest people on the name on all of their products, including planet. As you stroll down the strip, you Dave Jennings clubs, putters and apparel. Presently, may meet people dressed as Star Wars Cleveland’s name is still punched on the characters or Fred Flintstone. You might wedges that made the company so popular, pass street vendors selling oddities, and you but in the very near future, I expect to see Srixon on certainly will be asked for money by a few of the city’s those clubs, as well. many homeless. Bushnell, the industry leader in laser and GPS This marked my 10th trip to Vegas, and I am distance-measuring devices, had some new and hoping it was my last. I don’t hate it, but I am just not improved products that were quite impressive. comfortable. There’s a definite unnatural feeling for me Sun Mountain apparel is my outerwear of choice in Vegas (am I showing my age?). I’m not a fast lane guy any longer; I have grown very accustomed to cozier for cold and wet conditions. Sun Mountain’s products work well to keep the player warm and dry, and they surroundings like the ones here in Alexander City. This have so many features that do not inhibit the golf swing. being said, the convention was terrific. They’ve really done their homework, and their lines are We had a host of great speakers. My favorite was U.S. affordable compared to those of their many competitors. Navy SEAL Commander Mark McGinnis. He shared Skechers golf shoes came into the golf market just much of his life with us, including his daily practice, his a few years ago, and I am glad for it. Skechers shoes experiences on various missions, and his love for his brothers-in-arms and for his country. This man honestly are priced right, have the necessary stability and are amazingly comfortable. gave me goose bumps with his passion. At the end of January, I will once again attend the My second favorite part of the convention was annual PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. This is a our Tuesday night vendors show. During the show, four-day exhibit where almost every manufacturer in I was able to put faces to the voices of many of the the golf world will display their goods. Upon my return, representatives I had spoken with during the year as I plan to write my opinions on the golf equipment and I purchased products for my golf team. Most brought accessories I find there for next month’s article. Keep along some new products to be released in the coming your eyes open for my “Gotta Have” list. year. There were a host of vendors there, but these were Wishing to one and all a very happy New Year! the ones that captured my attention most: The publishing group for the book and movie Seven ~Dave Jennings is the men's golf coach at Central Days in Utopia was present. I loved that book, and Alabama Community College. the movie was almost as good. I was well pleased to 18 Lake Martin Living
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Lake Martin Living 19
Timing the Rut
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L
Outdoor Life
with most of the efforts taking place ong ago, I divided my deer season into two parts: bow season and rut. For most hunters, this is the best in the 1950s and 1960s. Deer were obtained from private individuals time to catch a buck acting “normal.” That means and state lands. Additional deer the bucks’ behavior is either calmed from a summer of not were also brought in from other being pursued by hunters, or they are pursuing does that have come into estrous. Most hunters know this is probably states to help in this effort. Today, Alabama’s deer herd can be found the best period for harvesting a mature buck; however, in all 67 counties and boasts over hunting during the rut is a privilege that is not enjoyed by 1.6 million animals. all hunters in Alabama. Restocking of deer from various In between bow season and rut, deer usually become parts of the state has resulted in a more nocturnal, especially bucks. From the opening genetic disparity of rutting dates. day of gun season until the beginning of rutting activity, In fact, some areas the woods are invaded Deer restocking locations in Alabama of Alabama observe by hordes of hunters. 1925-1998 four distinct rut They bring trucks, fourperiods throughout wheelers, tree stands, Fletcher Scott the deer season. guns and all the odors and Barbour County noise associated with these sees rutting activity in late November, activities. All this sends again in mid- to late December, then bucks into their secret lairs, early to mid-January, and once more which are usually inside the in late January. Meanwhile, hunters thickest, most impenetrable in other areas of the state have never growth they can find. This observed rutting activity during deer is especially true for mature season. bucks. They rarely venture Recently, I had a talk with Jimmy out before sunset unless Stephens, who runs Creek Hunting startled by hunters. Club near Daviston, Alabama. This creates what we Stephens is an avid deer hunter call the “December lull.” and careful observer of whitetail For the uninitiated, this activities. period is usually marked “When I was young, growing by little deer movement; up on the Tallapoosa River near and therefore, fewer big Malone, Alabama, I spent my buck kills. Although deer hunting season roaming the are still somewhat active hills and hollows of southwestern during daylight hours, Randolph County. Although I they adjust their times of did take deer, I never observed movement dramatically bucks chasing does or any rutting when gun season begins. activity during hunting season,” In Tallapoosa and he said. “Other hunters from surrounding counties, Tallapoosa County would talk rut will start sometime about hearing grunting and between late November wheezing while bucks chased and February. This does. So, I figured I was just a represents the entire gun sorry hunter!” season for Alabama! You Little did Stephens know at may be wondering why the time that what he observed – it is so spread out. The or didn’t observe – has recently location in which the deer been backed up by scientific data. In fact, a large number of was harvested may hold the answer. counties in South Alabama weren’t observing rut. At one time in the state of Alabama, deer numbers To get a better handle on what was going on, the weren’t even close to what they are now. In the early 1900s, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural there were only about 2,000 deer statewide. Beginning in Resources decided to continue the deer fetal study program the 1930s, restocking efforts were undertaken by the state, Lake Martin Living 21
22 Lake Martin Living
's Map To The
Peak Of The Rut Late Nov. To Early Dec. Mid Dec. To Late Dec. Early Jan. To Mid Jan.
Lauderdale Limestone Colbert Lawrence
Franklin
Morgan
Winston
Marion
Jackson
Madison
DeKalb
Marshall
Cherokee
Cullman Etowah Blount
Lamar Fayette
Walker
Late Jan.
Calhoun
St. Clair
Cleburne
Jefferson
ga
l Ta
Shelby Bibb
Greene
Clay
Coosa
Chilton
Hale Perry
Tallapoosa
Chambers
Lee
Autauga Dallas
Montgomery
Choctaw Marengo
Lowndes
Macon
Russell
Bullock
Wilcox nsh
aw
Barbour Butler
Clarke Monroe
Pike
Coffee
Conecuh Escambia
Mobile
Randolph
Elmore
Sumter
Washington
Early Feb.
de
la
Tuscaloosa
Pickens
Cre
begun in 1995 to determine dates of conception. Although some data had been gathered, a more comprehensive program was needed. The most recent study took place during the spring and summer months at 104 different sites spanning 49 counties. Most of the initial samples were taken south of Highway 80, which runs through central Alabama. In the examination of fetuses taken from approximately 500 does, the results clearly showed most were conceived in February. The data showed the need for date changes in Alabama's deer season if hunters in south Alabama were going to have a chance of taking a rutting buck. This resulted in adding 10 days of deer hunting during February and removing 10 days during December. Does this solve the problem of placing rut into the deer season? Only in part. “There will never be a clear-cut boundary line of rutting activity. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to deer management in Alabama,” said Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Director Chuck Sykes. The collection of fetal samples continued through the spring and summer of 2015 for counties in the Lake Martin area. In Tallapoosa County, samples were taken near Daviston and at Jerry Brown's farm north of Hackneyville. I asked Brown about the results from the harvest of five does on his property. “The range of conception dates for these deer ran from January 20 to February 10. I have personally observed deer rutting activity on my place from December on into turkey season, which begins in March. Does that don't get bred during January will come into estrous again in February. For some, it may be March before they are bred. Deer bred during March and February will drop fawns in September and October. This explains why you see spotted fawns in bow season, which usually begins October 15,” Brown said. Data gathered from recent studies may be used to alter deer season in other areas of the state, but this is not a simple process since rutting dates are truly all over the map. At the state level, the task of enforcing game laws would be nearly impossible if every county had a different deer season. A close look at the restocking map accompanying this article will show that the majority of deer restocked in Tallapoosa County came from Clarke, Marengo and Sumter counties. Other parts of Alabama were stocked with deer from these counties, as well as deer brought in from other states, including Georgia, North Carolina, Arkansas, Michigan, Wisconsin and Texas. All of these deer have different rutting dates programmed into their genetics. With interbreeding among deer from different parts of the country, it’s easy to see how this could affect rutting periods. Many other factors play a significant role in calculating rutting time, including sex ratio, herd health and habitat. I’m sure hunting pressure
Covington Geneva
Dale
Henry
Houston
Baldwin
AON's map originated from data collected during research by DCNR biologists on conception dates. The term "peak" of the rut applies to the traditional peak of breeding activity. Some does will always come into estrous before and after the traditional peak, and environmental factors like the weather, drought, food sources and condition of deer may affect the timing of breeding from year to year. AON also compiles reports from hunters about mature bucks chasing and breeding does.
is also involved. Alabama deer will always have varying rut dates that can move forward or backwards up to two weeks. Joel Glover with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has lots of experience with deer in Central Alabama. “In most places around here, the rut will run from January 20 to February 5,” he said. With all these variables to consider, it may be impossible to pick an exact date for the beginning of rut in Alabama. An average peak date with a two-week window might be the best that can be done. The bottom line for most hunters is to know from experience the dates between which deer show rutting activity in their hunting area. Mother Nature and genetics will determine when a particular doe will come into estrous, and it may apply solely for that deer. Every doe will eventually have a season, but until that happens you will have to wait patiently and observe your deer. ~Fletcher Scott is a retired science teacher who enjoys nature photography.
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24 Lake Martin Living
Stress and Sleep (or the lack thereof)
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STORY BY MIA OSBORN PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & MIA OSBORN
nce the holidays are over, the pressures of everyday life begin to creep into the New Year. Worries about war, terrorism and the economy stack on top of personal troubles to create a stew of insecurity and instability. It’s enough to make anyone lose sleep. According to Karen Lewis of Lake Martin Family Therapy, chronic stress could cause such symptoms as weight loss or gain, headaches and chest pain – just to name a few. But the most common symptom of anxiety, Lewis said, is sleep disturbance. “Not sleeping can cause all kinds of other problems,” she said. Dr. Anthony McLeod of Russell Medical Center (RMC) agreed. “Stress makes everything worse,” McLeod said. Along with Dr. Keri Brown, McLeod reviews the results of every sleep study conducted through the RMC Sleep Center. The Sleep Center diagnoses sleep ailments, such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome and insomnia, but McLeod said he also sees many cases of fatigue brought on by anxiety. “Not everybody who comes in
needs a sleep study,” he said. “They just need to work on their stress.” Sleep loss suppresses the immune system and increases the likelihood of heart attacks, hypertension and stroke, among other illnesses. This effect is made worse by the chemical reactions that take place in a stressed-out brain he explained. In a stressful situation, the body releases stress hormones, such as adrenalin, epinephrine and cortisol, that increase blood pressure and cause the liver to produce a surge of glucose for quick energy. These reactions are meant to help the body fight off a physical attack. But when an emotional or mental trigger causes stress, the body doesn’t get to put these chemical reactions to use. Glucose and stress hormones remain in the body, putting strain on the body’s systems. Sleep loss only compounds these effects. “People who are depressed or stressed not only can’t get to sleep but also can’t get back to sleep,” explained McLeod. “Then because they’re tired during the day, stress gets worse. It’s sort of a vicious cycle.” Fortunately, there are a few things people can do to lessen their anxiety loads and increase healthy sleep. The first step to reducing stress is to take stock of the stressors. It can be helpful to use a notebook to help identify anxiety spikes throughout the day, as well as noting nights when insomnia or other sleep problems come into play. Chronically stressed people often develop physical
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When Sleep Won't Come
Exercise, including yoga and the deep, rythmic breathing that accompanies it, helps instructor Andrea Peacock's students relieve stress and sleep better; Right: When sleep won't come or is disrupted or disturbed, testing, such as that Nancy Ammons recently underwent at RMC's Sleep Center with the help of Carmen Baird, could provide a diagnosis and treatment plan.
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habits that do more harm than good when it comes to getting rest. One of the most common harmful behaviors people develop to help cope is overindulgence in favorite foods, drugs or alcohol to distract them from their worries. Self-medication might relieve anxiety for a little while, but it can lead to more serious problems down the road, Lewis said. “Alcohol or sugar or things like that are going to make you feel worse the next day,” she explained. Anyone with sleep troubles or a lot of stress should avoid caffeine after lunch and alcohol and nicotine near bedtime. This is doubly important for anyone taking antidepressant drugs, which decrease time spent on the deeper stages of sleep. Exercise also is crucial to both stress relief and improved sleep. Dr. Brown recommended exercising for at least 20 minutes a day at least four hours before bedtime. Any sort of exercise could have a positive effect on health, but yoga has proven useful in treating both anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that the use of deep, measured breathing during yoga practice is likely the key to its mental benefits. “When people are stressed, they often forget to breathe,” Lewis explained. It also helps to follow a familiar pre-bed routine that starts at about the same time every night. “People need to have about an hour of wind-down time before they go to sleep,” McLeod advised. For ideal sleep, that wind-down time should be electronics free. Watching a movie or surfing social media in bed doesn’t count. Whenever possible, save the bed for sleep only. This creates a connection in the mind that the bedroom is a safe place where worries can be set aside. Practicing good habits could help stack the deck in favor of less stress and better sleep; however, there are some problems that shouldn’t be handled alone. Lewis said people should seek counseling if their worries prevent them from attending work or school or otherwise get in the way of life. Of course, stress reduction can’t fix every sleep problem. Doctors Brown and McLeod recommended that people come into the RMC Sleep Center if they wake up tired, choking or short of breath. Chronic, loud snoring or episodes of sleep apnea, whether experienced or witnessed by someone else, are other reasons to book a sleep study. For more information on common sleep disorders and directions on booking a sleep study, visit the Sleep Center pages on the Russell Medical Center’s website at www.russellmedcenter.com.
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Stitch by Stitch Jackson’s Gap artist paints with thread STORY BY MIA OSBORN PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
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n her studio at the foot of Smith Mountain, Sherry Watkins transforms ordinary fabric scraps into startling works of art. The basement studio of her Jackson’s Gap home is filled with souvenirs of world travels and decorated with an array of art, many of which were made by Watkins or her family. Watkins and her husband, Jim, came to the area for peace and quiet after his 30-year military career took them around the world. But that doesn’t mean she hasn’t been busy. At different times, she has been a journalist, tour guide, calligrapher, aerobics instructor and administrative assistant at present has a real estate photography business named “I Shoot Houses.” In her spare time, she creates pieces of textile art full of hidden depths. This weaving of color and texture is especially noticeable in her smaller pieces, like the collection of quilted pillows that decorate her studio. A closer
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look of a fish quilted on a blue background reveals a complex patchwork of dozens of patterns of fabric in shades of various colors. There are four different kinds of fabric in the fish’s eye alone. “The eyes make it,” Watkins explained. “Whenever you make art, the eyes are the hardest part to get right.” Even after the focal point of each piece is finished, Watkins doesn’t stop. She weaves materials like yarn, ribbons and the pieces of silk flowers into the foreground to add texture. In another piece, whisper-thin bridal tulle adds a final shimmer to a dragonfly’s wings. Watkins is selftaught and credits her parents with encouraging her to learn sewing and develop many other skills while she was growing up on the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay. “My parents were very creative and resourceful, and they taught all three of us kids how to make just about anything,” she said.
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Her mother, Nancy Hawkins, was a Girl Scout leader who taught Watkins and her siblings life skills, as well as the arts. Her father, Bill, was a master craftsman, machinist and boat builder. Both parents involved the family in a wide variety of creative projects, including the building of a 40-foot sailboat. Watkins said her upbringing left her with a permanent creative itch. “I can’t sit still without something in my hands,” she said. “If I sit in front of the TV, I’m crocheting or doodling.” In college, she expanded her artistic interests to include ceramics, watercolor painting, flower arranging and sculpting in polymer clay. After high Piecing with Passion
Page 28: Sherry Watkins used a digital software program to help her define the basic design for her fish pillow pieced in fabrics and embellished the work with hand and machine stitching to give life to her subject; Page 29: She uses unconventional materials, such as silk flower stems and overlays of bridal tulle to achieve texture and depth in her designs; Below: Watkins enjoys creating portraits of animals and landscapes like this rendition of a friend's house at the base of Smith Mountain (see photo at right). Batik fabrics in varying shades, along with the defining characteristics of thread painting lend texture and realistic perspective to art pieces.
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school, she served eight years in the United States Air Force, where she met her husband. While stationed in Texas, Watkins started her first business, selling calligraphy and needlepoint works from a shop she called “Needles and Pens.” Then her husband’s job took them to Cairo, Egypt. “There, I taught classes at the expatriate community center in quilting and calligraphy,” she said. Although she taught simple hand quilting techniques in Egypt, she did not attempt a full scale quilting project until much later, after the family had returned to the United States. It all started when she saw the chance to make her daughter, Kryssie, a unique gift. “My first full size quilt I made for Kryssie’s 18th birthday. It was a memory quilt made from all of her old souvenir T-shirts and blue jeans I’d saved since she was little,” she said. “Each panel was a special memory of a place or an adventure we had together.” Since then, her love of quilting has taken off, leaving her other creative endeavors behind. “I’ve always had little passions for making things, and it never really lasted more than a few years. But now, I can’t learn enough,” she said. Watkins continues her study of textile art through videos, web forums and online classes. She also learns
by setting challenges for herself, such as the huge quilted tiger she submitted to the Lake Martin Living Art and Photography Contest in October. The piece is called “Chat Preux,” and like all of Watkins’ textile projects, it started with a little digital magic. Watkins used editing software to transform a photograph of a tiger into a color-blocked quilting template. From there, it was a matter of pulling the right patterns and colors from her collection of fabrics to follow the dappled light and stripes in the tiger’s fur. Once Watkins had meticulously cut out and pieced together the fabrics for her pattern, she sewed the whole project together on her Juki F600 quilting machine. As a final touch, she free-motion quilted and freehand stitched the tiger with more than 28 shades of thread to create a texture simulating fur. The technique is called thread painting, and like most of the work of quilting, it’s time consuming. “Chat Preux” took about 120 hours over six months. Watkins fits her quilting hours in between her family life and her day job; however, finding the time to make art isn’t hard. For her, the hard part comes in knowing when to stop. “I get so engrossed in it I lose track of time, and then it’s 3 o’clock in the morning,” she laughed.
Watkins sees her art as a way to express her creative side, rather than as a business venture. She connects with other textile artists online and through an Auburn-based quilting group called the Cotton Boll Guild. Most of her textile pieces are given away as gifts or used to decorate her home. Recently, she began posting photos of her art online. After taking several commission orders, she is considering selling her work through local vendors. Whatever turns her creative life may take, Watkins said, she will continue to hone her artistic style. “It’s the neatest medium out of everything I’ve ever worked with,” she said. “To me, it’s just fun.”
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Weigh the Cost
Getting thin is less expensive than staying fat STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY CLIFF WILLIAMS
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his is Cara Tidwell’s busy time of year. The fitness coordinator at Total Fitness at Russell Medical Center works longer, more intense hours during the first two months of the year than at any other time all year long. “January is the month of New Year’s resolutions,” Tidwell explained. But in addition to the increased workload, January also ushers in Tidwell’s greatest opportunity to help people all across Central Alabama take steps to achieve healthier lifestyles. The impact of her assistance can do more than reduce heart disease, stroke and diabetes; recent research indicates that Tidwell’s work also puts more money in her clients’ wallets. The financial cost of obesity is estimated at between $2,600 and $4,900 annually, according to a recent study by George Washington University’s School of Public Health (GWU). Medical costs and lost wages through more frequent sick days and lower productivity take a big chunk of change, but obese people also pay more for gasoline, life insurance, travel, clothing and funerals, the study showed. Those with obese body mass also have lower standards of living, on average, because they tend to remain single and thus cannot take advantage of tax breaks for couples, as well as often missing out on the benefits of two-income households. And an obese person costs his or her employer an average $358 in annual productivity loss, according to the GWU study. Overweight people on average pay $36 per year for more gasoline, as automobile engines work harder to carry the extra weight – and as much as $516 more per year if they require larger vehicles that are not fuel efficient. Life insurance premiums are $121 more for an overweight person per year than for someone whose body mass index meets normal levels established by the Center for Disease Control, the GWU research indicated. Many airlines also charge “passengers of size” for two seats if they cannot lower the armrest or the standard seatbelt does not fit. Larger clothing sizes in many stores cost more than comparable standard-sized items as well. Depending on where a person shops, the difference might be as little as 32 Lake Martin Living
$5 more or as much as $20 more per comparable item for everyday wear, but while the average standard-sized woman over the age of 16 spends about $300 on clothing annually, her overweight counterpart spends $562. Collectively, the obese population spends $30 billion more on clothing every year. And those who weigh in excess of 350 pounds are required to purchase larger caskets for their funerals and sometimes must buy an additional burial lot. In contrast, living a healthy lifestyle also has its costs, but Tidwell said the cost of losing the weight is less than the cost of maintaining an unhealthy lifestyle. Much of that savings is in medical costs, she said. An overweight person pays an average $1,474 more per year in direct medical costs that include medications and office visits, the GWU study found, but that figure is five times the cost of the annual fee for a gym membership. “The typical membership to a fitness facility in this area is about $30 to $50 per month,” she said. “Most people spend that on just one night out to eat.” The annual cost of a $50 membership at a local gym comes to about $300 per year, and Tidwell said that’s just the start. “Most obese people who drop the weight are able to come off some of their medications or reduce how much they take, like cholesterol or diabetic medications, and they don’t have to visit the physician’s office as much, so there’s a big savings there, too,” she said. “We see a lot of that at Total Fitness.” While fast food is less expensive than healthy food or eating at a sit-down restaurant, purchasing healthy food from the grocery store and eating at home costs only $1.50 per day more than the least healthy diets, revealed a recent study from the Harvard University School of Public Health. Researchers found that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, fish and nuts would cost one person about $550 more per year. According to these figures, the average net savings in losing the extra pounds could conservatively What Help Can Do Maintaining form helps Molly amount to more than Davenport avoid injuries and $1,600 per person per lose weight efficiently as Cara year, but Tidwell said Tidwell keeps a close eye and offers adjustment suggestions. the potential to save
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even more per household comes in changing the lives of generations in a family by helping one obese person adopt a healthier lifestyle. “The problems are carried on by the children,” she explained. “Dietary problems, inactivity, the cycle of medications – that’s what children are learning, and as they grow up, that’s the lifestyle they live, too. If one person in a household can change to a healthier lifestyle, that person can influence others.” But it’s not easy, she admitted. “Getting fit and losing weight can really physically hurt,” Tidwell said. “When you are obese, there are so many things you cannot do, because they are painful.” Tidwell recommended pool exercises as a place for overweight people to begin. “If you get in an indoor heated pool and run or walk or swim, the water keeps you buoyant and takes the pressure off the joints, so you can stay moving for a sufficient time to achieve your goals. Participating in water activities can be safe and effective," she said. “Once you get started, you can add to your program, and every two weeks, you change a little something about it and cross train.” But if you want to lose weight and save money, Tidwell said, don’t cut back on the cost of your shoes, especially the ones in which you plan to exercise.
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“It’s important to have a good foundation, good support for your feet. Don’t buy the cheapest ones you can find,” she said. “They should be comfortable and the best you can get for your workout goals. If you’re going to walk, don’t do it in worn out shoes that don’t have support. If you’re going to be in the pool, buy water shoes. Good shoes are your foundation.” Losing the weight – and saving the money as you do so – is a lifestyle change, Tidwell said, and it might require the help of a team that includes a fitness coordinator, dietician, personal trainer and class instructors, as well as exercise partners who will encourage your progress and congratulate your achievements. The local need for these services was well documented in a University of Washington study released in April 2015, which found that in Tallapoosa County, Alabama, obesity levels are more than 9 percent higher than the national average – and 3 percent higher than the state average. At the same time, activity rates in Tallapoosa County are 11 percent lower than the national average. About half of all Americans make resolutions to change their lives for the better every January, and according to Statistic Brain Research Institute, 38 percent of those endeavor to lose weight. Cara Tidwell hopes she can help to turn those resolutions into reality. She’s looking forward to being very busy.
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Young Professionals Poised to make a positive impact in the community
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STORY & PHOTO BY MIA OSBORN
he revamped, revitalized version of the Lake Martin Young Professionals (YP) has been active in the local area for less than a year, but it has already garnered a lot of attention. The group, headquartered in Alexander City, aims to connect the community’s young people for events that are charitable, social, educational – or all three. Being active with YP is a great way to meet people, but some members believe the group can be much more than a social outlet. The networking that takes place at YP events may pave the way for Tallapoosa County’s future, thanks to a dedicated team of individuals who have supported the group since its earliest days. “I think now is a critical time for young people to step into leadership roles,” said Jacob Meacham, Vice President of Business Development with the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. Meacham has acted as a link between the chamber and the Young Professionals since the group restructured under chamber leadership in September 2015. “There were probably 15 or 20 people who’d been involved with the group since the beginning, who saw the potential of the group but wanted more organization and direction,” said Meacham. In September, those original members teamed up
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with the chamber of commerce to help the Young Professionals reach their goals while giving back to the community. “We’re trying to give the group some consistency,” Meacham said. The YP is governed by a board of directors, who represent a cross section of personalities and professional backgrounds. Board Chairman Scott Hardy said his role in the YP often overlaps his work as the Lake Martin Area United Way’s Community Impact and Marketing Director. “Part of my role with Young Professionals is that I’m on the volunteerism side of things, and that works directly with my job at United Way,” Hardy explained. He said having a diverse board helps the YP understand the needs of the area they serve. “We represent different sides of the community,” said Hardy. “We hear different sides of things. We try to bring what we hear in and collaborate, so we can make progress.” So far, the group’s efforts have raised large amounts of money and supplies for local charities. In October, the Young Professionals presented $800 to Russell Medical Center. The money came from the proceeds of a Halloween mixer at J.R.’s Sports Bar in downtown Alexander City. It was the first in a series of projects meant to spread the news of the group’s revitalization and benefit local charities and helpful organizations.
November saw the YP hosting a Thanksgiving event, which also raised funds and food for Meals on Wheels. “We always try to tie something good into something fun,” said Stephan Tomlin, owner of screen print art business North Lake Crafted and a member of the Young Professionals board. Tomlin is designing the T-shirts for the Young Professionals’ Polar Plunge on January 23. The Polar Plunge will see volunteers dive into the freezing waters of Lake Martin at Kowaliga. The event will benefit the Lake Martin Resource Association (LMRA), which is responsible for ongoing buoy repair and cleanup efforts around the lake. Meacham said the LMRA also benefits the community in other ways. LMRA has partnered with Prosperity Again Through Health (PATH) to organize frequent trash cleanup walks in littered areas around the county (see page 47). In the future, the Young Professionals hope to grow their group’s membership and extend their reach into other parts of the community. They want to become involved in the school system, either through fundraisers, after-school program support or
On Board for The Future
Opposite: Stephan Tomlin designed the logo for the inaugural YP Polar Plunge; Above: The Young Professionals board of directors includes Scott Hardy, Mark Worthy, Jacob Meacham and Emily MdDaniel who met at The Coffee Corner to plan the Plunge.
helping to meet another need. In addition, many members of the YP have an interest in local politics. At a November 2015 kickoff party to celebrate the group’s new direction, the Young Professionals brought in State Representative Mark Tuggle as a guest speaker. Tuggle spoke about local issues and the importance of the younger generation taking on positions of leadership. With municipal elections coming up in August, the Young Professionals saw an opportunity to get more involved in the process of government. They are looking into hosting a political debate for the mayoral and city council candidates. Whatever the future brings, it’s clear the Young Professionals will continue to find new ways to foster economic and personal growth in the area. “It’s up to our generation to carry the torch and make sure that Alexander City and the Lake Martin area remain prosperous and continue to grow,” said Meacham. Lake Martin Living 37
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Dialysis team goes platinum
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appreciation to Dr. Doherty for his commitment to patient ongratulations are in order for Fresenius Medical Care of Alexander City, which received platinum level care and quality outcomes. We wish him good health and happiness as he enjoys fishing, playing his guitars and eating recognition for exceeding the Fresenius Peritoneal many good Philly cheesesteaks. Dialysis quality criteria. This award designates the Alexander Finally, this month marks the return of Scale City center as a Center of Excellence through the Back Alabama. For 10 years, Alabama’s premier company’s UltraCare Experience program. statewide weight loss challenge has encouraged Fresenius Medical Care provides dialysis weight loss through friendly competition. services to patients throughout the Lake Martin Total Fitness at RMC encourages everyone area. The center is located in the Professional trying to lose weight to participate in this 10-week Office Building at RMC and provides daily care to weight loss competition in which two-man teams hundreds of dialysis patients under the direction compete for prizes of $1,000, $500 or $250 to each of Medical Director Dr. Dimo Popov and Clinical team member. Director Cassey Head, BSN, RN. Since the competition started in 2007, it has Fresenius Medical Care has been certified helped Alabamians lose more than one million as an UltraCare facility since 2010. The center’s combined pounds! exceptional caregivers take pride in their Scale Back Alabama is designed to address commitment to deliver excellent care to patients the state’s challenge with obesity; however, RMC through innovative programs, cutting edge Susan Foy cautions individuals to check with their health technology, continuous quality improvement care providers before and superior customer beginning any new service. exercise or diet regimen. Also this month, Make 2016 your best Russell Medical Center year yet! Grab a partner extends best wishes to and start dropping Dr. Norman Doherty pounds the healthy way upon his recent by making good food retirement. A skilled and choices and participating compassionate surgeon, in moderate exercise. Dr. Doherty joined the Total Fitness will RMC staff in 2000 and host daytime weigh-ins enjoyed a robust medical January 25, 27 and 29 practice. His surgical from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. career spanned 45 years Evening weigh-ins will and was not only a take place from 5 p.m. career, but also a passion. to 7 p.m. on January 25 Dr. Doherty’s passion and 27, and from 4 p.m. was matched only by his Local Team Congratulated for Providing High-level Service Cassey Head, Dr. Dimi Popov, Scarlet Thornton and Tamela lifelong love of music. Rawles received honors as a platinum level center from Fresenius to 6 p.m. on January 29. For further details, call He is an extraordinarily Medical Care. Scale Back Alabama talented musician. coordinator Molly Those who know of his fascinating background love to boast that his band opened for Davenport at 256-329-7623. Follow and interact with Scale Back Alabama on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. the Rolling Stones in 1965. There is even a downloadable app to assist your progress. On behalf of the many patients he has cared for and the hospital staff he has worked alongside these past 15 ~ Susan Foy is marketing director at Russell Medical Center. years, Russell Medical Center sends heartfelt thanks and
Medical News
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Business Planning in the New Year I
t’s the start of another new year, and for the business owner, this is an excellent time to evaluate where your business stands and where you see it going. Doing so will help you determine if any changes need to be made and if you need to start planning now for growth. So as you sit down to evaluate 2015 and plan for 2016, here are some things you might consider:
applications and wireless products to protect themselves from fraudulent activity and the resulting chargeback costs. Meet with your banker. It’s always a good idea to keep your banker updated about what’s going on with your business. Talk to your banker at the beginning of the year about what you anticipate your financial needs will be for this year. Maybe you plan to hire more employees or purchase new equipment. Whatever the case may be, the more your banker knows about you and your business, the better the bank can help you when the time comes.
Money Matters
Understand and maintain your cash flow. This is a big topic with lenders and business owners. Whether you currently use accounting software or utilize an accountant, it’s important to fully understand your cash flow in terms of expenses and revenue and forecast the year ahead. Make sure you’re realistic with your Dig into your financials and keep up on projections, or even a little tougher on yourself monthly reports. So many people can’t tell their than you need to be. banker what their business’ revenues were last After evaluating your cash flow, you may year. So the beginning of the year is a great time notice some gaps. Perhaps you have a seasonal Kevin Speaks to dig in and really understand your financials. business, and the gaps are more noticeable, or If you’re not a numbers person, have your perhaps they’re more subtle ebbs and flows. bookkeeper or accountant walk you through Whatever the reason, once you have a full everything so you can fully understand the strengths and understanding of why and when these gaps occur, you can weaknesses of your business. take the necessary steps to maintain a consistent cash flow. This is also a great time to resolve to get on track and For example, you may notice some timing gaps between stay on track when it comes to keeping up with end-of-theaccounts payable and accounts receivable. If this is the month reports and other financial records. case, a line of credit is one way to provide more predictable cash flow. Another helpful tool is remote deposit capture, Meet with your accountant. Just like with your banker, which allows you to scan deposits and send electronic check payments to the bank. This tool extends deposit cutoff times it’s a good idea to meet with your accountant at the beginning of the year to talk about your plans for the year. and saves time on bank trips. An accountant can advise you on what you can afford and show you where you could be saving money. Plus, it’s never Upgrade merchant services to protect from fraudulent too early to start planning for tax time. activity. Many financial institutions have started issuing As you plan for the year ahead financially, the most chip-enabled credit and debit cards to their customers. important thing to remember is to be proactive. It’s always If you’re a merchant that accepts point-of-sale payments, best to implement these tools before they are needed. now is a good time to upgrade your compliance terminals to match these new cards, which can help cut down on And all this New Year planning can make a big difference fraudulent activity. as you work towards a prosperous 2016. Not only will these new cards become the norm over the next one to two years, but as of Oct. 1, 2015, the major credit ~ Kevin Speaks is a Relationship Manager with card companies have shifted liability for any fraudulent USAmeriBank and has been in the financial services industry activity to the business owner. All merchants are encouraged since 2008. Speaks lives in Alexander City. He can be contacted to have the latest point-of-sale terminals, software at 256-329-7502. 40 Lake Martin Living
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United Way Denim and Diamonds Charity Ball November 21, 2015 The Rodeo Club, Dadeville 1. Carol Sellers, Tami Williams, Kim Morse, and Casey Kelley 2. Donnie and Carla Teel, Marian and Brad Plata, Donna and Andy Moore and Dianne Davis 3. Anna Speaks, Sharon Fuller, Sandra Fuller and James Dodwell 4. Tami and George Williams 5. Rhonda Long and Don Fuller
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Jacob’s Ladder Preschool Polar Express Program December 11, 2015 The Arbor, Alexander City 1. Haley, Sophie and Sadie Bishop 2. Kayla Jerry and Cohen Lewis 3. William and Cely Bradbury 4. Natalie, John, Hazel and Ansley Dark 5. Meghan and Carson Bishop 6. Jeremy and Hal Causey 7. Ed Williams and Heidi and Kristen Fuller
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Christmas Parade December 7, 2015 7
Downtown Alexander City 1. Lori and Tyler Taunton 2. Hailey Wingard, Connor Spann and Makayla Wingard 3. Stacey and Collin Lahue 4. Cara Johnson, Addi Colley and Jacey Johnson 5. Erica McGee, Gibson Forbes and Olivia Burkhalter 6. Tiffany Russell and Samantha Carlisle 7. Chloe Davis, Leelen Shores and HalleMae Davis
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Christmas in the Park December 12, 2015 Charles E. Bailey, Jr. Sportplex 1. Sarah Thomas and Haley Franklin 2. Ronnie, Skylar and Cheryl Livingston 3. Miguel Williams 4. Scott, Grayson and Olivia Hammonds 5. Cali Ragsdale 6. Carlos, Brianna and Sandra Gulguera 7. Katari Jackson 8. Eliza Saldivar and Kelsi Roberts 9. Ximenia, Mia and Steve “Cubby� Culberson 44 Lake Martin Living
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Lake Martin Young Professionals Membership Drive December 17, 2015 The Coffee Corner 6
1. Megan Benson and Lindsay Meacham 2. Mary Elizabeth Vardaman, Tony Blanco and Luke Stephens 3. Scott Hardy, Will Abner and Emily Guill 4. Robin Berkowitz and Stephan Tomlin 5. Kurt Middleton 6. Randy Dawkins, Emily McDaniel and Paul New
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THE LAKE REGION
Calendar FEATURED EVENT
Food and fun to provide feast for others
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t. James Episcopal Church in Alexander City will host its first ever Mardi Gras Auction on Friday, January 22. The event will feature both live and silent auctions for a wide variety of items and will benefit the local Feast of Sharing program. Many pieces of original artwork will be up for grabs, including framed photography by Kenneth Boone and handmade pottery from the St. James pottery guild. Other items include a wakeboarding package from Russell Marine, a family beach vacation and a day of handyman services provided by the Rev. Rob Iler. Beer and wine will be available, along with non-alcoholic beverages, hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Musical entertainment also is on the evening’s agenda. The proceeds from the Mardi Gras Auction will be used to support the Feast of Sharing ministry, which provides two free meals each week to those in need. Feast of Sharing began six 46 Lake Martin Living
Silent Auction for Feast of Sharing Fundraiser
Martha Chapman's "Grateful" mosaic is among the pottery and other upscale items that will be offered at an evening of entertainment, food, drinks and fun to raise money for a local community charity.
years ago at the First United Methodist Church in Alexander City. The ministry started out serving a handful of people with food and devotionals on Thursday evenings. Attendance numbers grew rapidly. In the summer of 2015, FUMC partnered with St. James to offer a Tuesday night meal, as well. Feast of Sharing now serves roughly 100 people twice a week. Tickets for the Mardi Gras Auction are $25 per person and are available through the St. James Episcopal Church office. To reserve tickets, call Jennifer James at 256-234-4752. For other information, contact Heidi Ross at 256-794-7010 or Susan Mange at 601-234-4752.
LAKE REGION EVENTS Jan. 16
Alice in Wonderland
Missoula Children’s Theatre will bring their production of Alice in Wonderland to 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 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. 21
Wine Tasting
Emporium Wine will host a a wine tasting from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 128 Calhoun Street, Alexander City.
Jan. 23
PATH Trash Walk
Meet at 9 a.m. at the fountain in front of Jake’s Restaurant to pick up supplies and assignments. Come out and join your friends and neighbors for a healthy walk while removing unsightly litter from the roadways of the most scenic county in Alabama. For additional information, contact John Thompson at jthompson@lmra.info.
painting, drawing and other arts taught at each meeting. For information, call Martha McKnight 256-825-6503 or Jerri Hallmark 256-825-0595.
Feb. 25
Watermelon Wine: The Poetry of Southern Music
Rheta Grimsley Johnson, Frye Gilliard and Anne E. DeChant will host this evening of poetry and music at 7 p.m. at Emporium Wine, 128 Calhoun Street, Alexander City.
Feb. 27
7th Annual Russell Forest Run
Register at www.active.com or www. russellforestrun.com for the 5K or 10K race options that benefit the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. The 10K race starts at 7:45 a.m. with the 5K at 7:55 a.m. Registration for the 5K is $20; 10K is $40. Pick up race packets Feb. 26 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and the day of the race between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. at the Discovery Center at Russell Crossroads. Call 256-397-1019 for information.
March 8
Camp 1921 String Band Live Music of the Old South
Preserving the rich history of Southern Appalachian music and cultural history of the Deep South, the Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 1921 of Tallassee will perform at 7 p.m. at the Tallassee High School Auditorium. Tickets are $10 for adults; $5 for students. For information, call Mona Mills at 334-201-4892.
Season-Long Events Library Storytime
Feb. 16
Storytime for children ages 5 and younger is held at the Dadeville Public Library every Tuesday at 10 a.m.
Meet at 10:30 a.m. at Lake Martin Area United Way. Artistic technique in
The ity of Alexander City Public
Art Association of Central Alabama
Electronics Recycling
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. There is a $10 fee per television. For more information, call Sabrina Wood at 334-429-8832 or Amanda Thomas at 256-409-2020.
Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit
The Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony on Lake Martin exhibit is on display at the Alexander City Board of Education building all year long. The BOE is located at 375 Lee Street.
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 334-857-2008 for more information.
Memory Makers Quilt Guild
Meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Jr. Sportplex campus. Participants come and go between 1 and 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5, followed by show-and-tell. Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.
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. Lake Martin Living 47
9
Goldville 280
Goodwater To Sylacauga
Legend
TALLAPOOSA COUNTY
63
New Site
Public Boat Ramps 22
280
Churches
19
Camps & Parks
Timbergut Landing
9
Power lines
17
280
16
8
U.S. Highways County Roads
12
Alexander City Flint Hill Church
22
Camp ASCCA
Alex City Boat Ramp
9
Rockford
3
49
128
22
COOSA COUNTY
Horsesh Nation
Jaybird Landing
Wind Creek 63 State Park
Piney Woods Landing
Jacksons Gap
Pleasant Grove Church
11
9
Mt. Zion Church
259
Bethel Church
D.A.R.E. Park Landing
Friendship Church Liberty Church
20
Smith Landing Willow Point
24
Seman
Camp Kiwanis
Church in The Pines Trillium
1 Children’s Harbor Ko
wa
10 18 9
Church of the Living Waters
The Ridge
The Amp
2
lig
21 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church
Stillwaters
18
Union Landing
aB
ay
Walnut Hill
23
80
Lake Martin Baptist Church
Camp Alamisco
Kowaliga Boat Landing
4
Pleasant Ridge Church
34
5 63 15 6
Equality
55
14
7
57
New Hope Church
231
Dadev
280
Union
90
50
Central
Red Hill
13
63
Union Church
Refuge Church 229
49
Eclectic Santuck Kent
Reeltown
120
14
231
14
22
ELMORE COUNTY Wetumpka
48 Lake Martin Living
14
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
hoe Bend nal Park
ville
ON TY
. Dark Insurance 16 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010
42. Real Island Marina 334-857-2741 270 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026
17 . McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583 1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010
56. SpringHouse 256-215-7080 12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 66. Catherine’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
50
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
11
4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 15 256-794-1333 111 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
33. River North Marina 256-397-1500 250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Restaurants
CHAMBERS COUNTY
4. Russell Building Supply 14 256-825-4256 350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853
18 . Kowaliga Whole Health & Pet Care Resort 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024
Hotels & Lodges 19 Creekside Lodge & Conference and Event Center 34. 256-307-1440 6993 Hwy. 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 20 Cherokee Bend Bed & Breakfast 34. 877-760-7854 5833 Hwy 22 E, Alex City, AL 35010
Churches 34. 21 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820 8091 County Rd 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 34. 22 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 23 Marine Construction Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443 180 Birmingham Road, Eclectic, AL 36024
4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 12 256-234-2567 1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010
LEE COUNTY
4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 13 334-541-2132 1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024
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.
81
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
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE 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
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
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
George Hardy, D.M.D................................................... 7
Maestro 2300................................................................19
A&M Plumbing............................................................... 7
Grace's Flowers & Gifts..............................................19
Millstone Nursery.......................................................... 7
Alex City Guide Service.............................................50
Granger Thagard Auction.........................................38
Music Depot..................................................................51
Alex City Taxi & Shuttle.............................................51
Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance......................51
Radney Funeral Home...............................................38
Bob Alexander Landscaping..................................... 7
Hinson Galleries.................................................................35
Russell Medical Center..............................................56
Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation.............................. 7
Holley's Home Furnishings.....................................23
Satterfield, Inc........................................................5, 19
C&C Wood Products...................................................50
Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art........................ 2
Southern Sash..............................................................50
Com-Link, Inc.................................................................. 8
Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance...............................51
Southern Star Alpaca Farm.................................5, 19
Cotney's Jewelers........................................................19
Kelley’s Heating & Air.................................................51
Tallassee Community Hospital...............................50
Crystal Clear Skin.........................................................51
Lagasse Construction Inc.........................................38
Templeton Plantation................................................51
DAVCO Development................................................51
LaKay's Flowers & Gifts..............................................19
The Shoppes at Queen's Attic................................51
Designs by Trish............................................................. 7
Lake Martin Community Hospital........................... 3
Thomas Self Storage..................................................38
East Alabama Medical Center.................................53
Lake Martin Dock.................................................13, 51
UAB Heart & Vascular.................................................15
Four Seasons Irrigation.............................................51
Lakeside Concierge....................................................51
Ware Jewelers...............................................................55
Lake Martin Living 53
Looking for Love on the Web
If the lake had an online dating profile ...
S
The Last Word
rings from six packs; lake wanna-be o, dating sites are a thing, right? swimming pools; evaporation. In fact, they are probably the Drinker: Yes, but only because I have thing with the kids and all of their to take in what people dump out when crazy electronic gadgets. Teenagers and they see the water patrol coming. Even 20-somethings are Match.com-ing or then, my water-to-alcohol content is like Tinder-ing like there is no tomorrow. .1/zillionth percent, so I wouldn’t say In my day, we had to be fixed up on I am a heavy drinker. But don’t get me blind dates, be given false hope and wrong, I still party! ultimately be disappointed like regular Smoker: I tried it once but couldn’t people. But that gripe is an article for keep the cigarillo lit. another day. Pets: I have about 25,000 fish; 2,000 I did wonder if Lake Martin could creatively capitalize on the digital dating Luke Robinson snakes; and 3,000 turtles. I did have an alligator once, but I haven’t seen him in phenomenon. Sure, there are already, a while. like, 892 local and regional Realtors Hobbies: I love to collect things. Arrowheads specifically trained to market this area, but let’s just (although I am missing a lot of my collection now); try my idea anyway. Let’s set up a dating site profile golf balls; old tennis shoes; tires; jewelry from exes; for the lake! used appliances; etc. Yes, on the surface it sounds crazy, but as you Body type: Don’t be intimidated, but I am keep reading this article, you’ll quickly find it’s pretty big. Like, 880 miles of shoreline big. I don’t abhorrently stupid, as well; however, I have a word quota, a deadline and a few good one-liners, so this necessarily need a large significant other, but – as they say before they jump off of Chimney Rock – I column is happening! ain’t skeered. Below is Lake Martin’s dating site profile: Perfect mate: I am looking for someone calm and Name: Martin, Lake soothing; I don’t really want to make waves. Must Date of Birth: Around 1926. It’s hard to say. My know how to swim. And I need a strong bucket to parents – Martin Dam and Tallapoosa River – have cry in when I pull away during those depressing a weird relationship. They have stayed together all winter months. of these years, but there has always been some kind Philosophy on life: If you hang around me long of separation between them. It’s like a big wall that enough, you’ll see I am pretty deep … 150 feet or so separates them physically and emotionally. in some areas. Don’t get me wrong, I can be shallow Astrological sign: Strangely, I’m a Leo. Just at times – usually when you and your outboard playing; I’m an Aquarius (duh!). motor least expect it. Employment: Underpaid purveyor of fun and Bottom line: In the end, I just want to make you frivolity for various counties in Alabama. happy! I’d like to get you on a float and drift you off Seeking: People of all ages who dig a good time. to a private slough. Whatever happens, happens! My motto is, “Jump on in, I’m fine!” Maybe we can find out how long you can hold your Likes: Strong rains; the steady hum of an early morning fishing boat; long walks around me; spring breath! (Winky face emoji). break; skinny dipping (girls only, please!) ~Luke Robinson is an Alexander City native who also Dislikes: Aquapalooza; empty cans; belly busters writes a weekly collumn for The Alexander City Outlook. (they hurt me, too!); lightning strikes; those plastic 54 Lake Martin Living
AQUARACER WITH DIAMONDS
Maria Sharapova never stops challenging herself. Like TAG Heuer, she keeps pushing her limits and never cracks 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