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WE CHANGE LIVES
WHY ANYTIME FITNESS? We Are Moving Mid-September to Larger, State of the Art Facility on Broad Street
BEFORE
AFTER
Testimonial: After attending Tatums Bootcamp @ Anytime Fitness for over a year, I am down 65 lbs and have never felt better. ~ Nicole Smith
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SUMMER FREE + 2 COMPLIMENTARY TRAINING SESSIONS Call the gym for details. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
WE’RE ALWAYS OPEN We t your busy schedule and on-the-go lifestyle. With our membership, you can workout when its best for you- day or night!
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You can add the unlimited tanning option to your membership, or you can “pay as you go”
Kellen Shirley Fitness Coach/Trainer Come by and meet Kellen to jump start your Fitness Journey with a complimentary Training Plan.
163 Alabama Street, Alexander City, AL 35010 • 256-329-1004 JULY 2016 LAKE 3 Like us on Facebook alexandercityAL@anytime tness.com
Letter from the Editor
L
ake Martin knows how to celebrate summer and, most especially, the Fourth of July. Independence Day here is so much more than just a drive to the park to watch the fireworks, followed by a 45-minute traffic jam to get home. Having celebrated the holiday in myriad ways and many places, I can unequivocally tell you that Lake Martin does it best. The weekend starts with art shows, concerts, parades and picnics; lake time and friends; family and fun. There is so much happening at the lake this Fourth of July weekend that you would be hard pressed to do it all. But if you insist on trying, turn first to the calendar of events on page 16. There, you’ll find the times listed for the places you’ll want to go and the things you’ll want to do. Then, check out the table of contents on page 7 for a list of articles that could help you plan. On page 38, there’s a how-to piece – with some how-not-to tips, as well – for the boat parade. If it’s a party you’re planning, be sure to read Mia Osborn’s interview on page 34 with the hosts of one of Lake Martin’s most legendary holiday hoedowns, the Forbus Family Fish Fry. This lakeside Fourth of July event has been going and growing for more than 50 years. You’ll pick up quite a few tips for an easy, successful event of your own. When it’s time to head out for the fireworks – whether you’ll view them by boat or road – read the how-to on page 32 before you go, so you’ll arrive in time at just the right spot for an explosive Independence Day experience. And after the Fourth, the fun at the lake keeps rolling, so stick around; gather a boatload of friends and enter the 13th Annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run. It’s more fun if you coordinate costumes around a colorful theme. Turn to page 28 for a guide to having the best time in this lake event that has raised more than $200,000 for local charities in its first 12 years. So, what are you waiting for? Get reading and then get out there for what may very likely be your best Fourth of July holiday ever.
Betsy Iler Managing Editor
Staff Chairman KENNETH BOONE
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Publisher STEVE BAKER
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Managing Editor BETSY ILER
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Assistant Magazine Editor MIA OSBORN
mia.osborn@alexcityoutlook.com
Marketing/Advertising Director TIPPY HUNTER
tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.com
EMILY GREGG
emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com
Circulation Manager DAVID KENDRICK
david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com
Creative Services AUDRA SPEARS
audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com
DARLENE JOHNSON
darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com
HALLIE HOLLOWAY
hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com
Contributors KENNETH BOONE JOHN COLEY HENRY FOY ERIC REUTEBUCH JULIE HUDSON ROB MCDANIEL
CLIFF WILLIAMS LEE WILLIAMS MITCH SNEED DAVID GRANGER GREG VINSON SUELLEN YOUNG
All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of:
256-234-4281 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011
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On the Cover Cover: Alexander City's Jordan Chapman is all set to celebrate Independence Day on Lake Martin. Turn to page 16 for details on the traditional Fourth of July events at the lake. In this issue of Lake, you'll also find tips for boat parade and fireworks viewing and a great how-to guide for your lakeside party. Send your celebration photos to editor@ lakemartinmagazine.com! Photo by Kenneth Boone.
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Contents 28. ANTE UP FOR CHARITY The 13th Annual Lions Lake Martin Poker Run raises funds for local non-profits 32. HOW TO WATCH THE FIREWORKS Exploring the options for viewing an explosive Lake Martin tradition
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34. HOW TO THROW A PARTY Tips from a half century of celebrating Independence Day at the lake 38. HOW TO WATCH THE BOAT PARADE Get the best view at Russell Lands' signature Fourth of July event 42. JAZZ FEST REVIEW Recapping the 26th annual concert series at Strand Park and The AMP 48. LAKE MARTIN HISTORY: NADEAN HOLLEY The making of Lake Martin as remembered by someone who was there 52. MID-CENTURY REDO Renovation start opens a panoramic view at Willow Point mid-century modern
52 LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES:
e
- edition
60
9. LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE
68. FAB FINDS
TO THE LAKE
70. LAKE Q&A
10. LAKE SCENES
75. HEALTHY LIVING
14. WHERE IS LAKE?
76. LAKE PROPERTY
16. LAKE EVENTS
79. BEHIND THE BOAT
20. LAKE MARTIN NEWS
80. LAKE WATCH
24. GEO 101
82. BIG CATCHES
31. PHOTOGRAPHER
86. CHEF'S TABLE
OF THE MONTH
88. FROM THE CELLAR
60. NATURE OF THE LAKE
91. PRO TIPS & TEE TALK
Lake magazine also features an online, digital edition, available 24 hours a day, free of charge. This edition is perfect to share with friends and family and provides you complete access to stories, photos and advertisements from anywhere in the world with Internet access. View our digital edition today at www.issuu.com.
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Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators Sales Month
May 2016 May 2013 May 2010
Number of sales
Average selling price
Median selling price
Days on the market
Total houses for sale
Inventory/ sales ratio
32 16 22
$435,896 $507,244 $491,805
$381,250 $454,276 $416,250
164 106 219
351 407 488
12.32 22.61 26.50
The above numbers are derived from raw sales data from the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors MLS.The sales noted above are for Lake Martin waterfront residential (single family and condominium) sales only. This information is provided courtesy Lake Martin Realty, LLC. (A Russell Lands, Inc. affiliated company.)
Martin Dam Fast Facts
July's Fishing Forecast
The construction of Martin Dam, which began in 1923, created what then was the largest manmade body of water in the world and was one of four dams built on the Tallapoosa River to generate electricity for the masses. Since its completion, the lake that formed behind the wall has served many needs for the 3,000 square mile watershed, including irrigation and drinking water, fish and wildlife habitats, recreation and economic opportunities, as well as flood control. Preparations for the dam project began in 1916 with the purchase of lands that would be flooded to form the lake. Some of homes that were below the projected water line were disassembled and rebuilt, board for board, in the surrounding towns, including Alexander City. Other home sites were abandoned and flooded and can sometimes be seen on GPS maps of the lake bottom. The dam is 168 feet high and 2,000 feet long. The spillway is controlled by 20 30-foot gates. The power plant today contains the original turbines that were installed at its construction in 1927 and generates over 327 million kilowatt-hours annually. Alabama Power Company operates the dam under the authority a license issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Lake levels during the last month Summer: 491 MSL Winter: 481 MSL Highest: 490.66 Lowest: 490.51 Lake elevations are subject to change. Individuals who recreate below Martin Dam and those with boats and water-related equipment on the lake should always stay alert to changing conditions. For up-to-date lake levels, log on to https://lakes.alabamapower.com.
The July heat means fishermen have to adapt to the schedules of the fish they want to catch. “For all species, your best bets are early morning, late afternoon or night time,” said Randy Baker of Fish Tales Bait & Tackle in Alexander City. Fish can still be caught occasionally during the daytime, but with the temperature still climbing, it’s a good idea to keep to the deepest parts of the lake and the shadows beneath bridges. “Everything now is relating to deep water,” said Baker. Crappie can be most easily caught with live bait this month, especially at night with a light to bring the fish to the surface. Bass can be caught with crank baits, jig baits, or plastics, but top water baits should be reserved for night fishing around pier lights. “You’ve got to find piers with deep water access, so fish can move up or down as water cools,” Baker advised.
Naming the Boat Boat names often reveal the personalities and interests of their owners. BoatUS earlier this year released the 2016 list of the Top Ten Boat Names. They are: Happy Ours, Freedom,
Grace, Serendipity, Island Time, No Regrets, Liberty, At Last, Blue Moon and Aqua holic. For more names that have been painted on transoms over the last 20 years, visit BoatUS.com/boatnames.
Lake Martin's weather outlook for July Year to Date
July 2016 Forecast
Our Normal July Precipitation: 5.31 inches Avg. high temp.: 90.7 Avg. low temp.: 69.5 Average temp.: 80.1
Information from the National Weather Service.
Precipitation: 26.31 inches Avg. high temp.: 71.0 Avg. low temp.: 46.7 Average temp.: 58.9
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Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the low 90s with lows in the 70s and 4.8 inches of precipitation in the month of July. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be at above average levels this month, and rainfall will be at normal levels.
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LAKE SCENE
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
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Reader Submissions (1) Lauren Craddock had a great time tubing at Lake Martin over Memorial Day weekend. (2) Darcie the dog was envious of the leap in the lake that Aidyn Lee, Wilson Patterson and Houston and Holly Lee took at their Aunt Alice and Uncle Terry Parmer’s Lake Martin home. (3) Lauren Breeding’s dog, Bennett, takes in a Lake Martin sunset. (4) Emma Easley takes a leap from the dock at Lake Martin. (5) Jeanette Wade sent in this photo of the Memorial Day sunset near Governor’s Island.
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LAKE SCENE
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
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Reader Submissions (1) Melanie Cosby loves catching fresh catfish for supper on Lake Martin. (2) Maryellen Schultz enjoys a great summer read at the lake. (3) Kyle Thornton took this photo of early summer blooms outside Catherine’s Market. (4) William Wilson took this shot of his daughter, Katie, on the dock of Real Island Marina at sundown. (5) Rebecca and Andrew Mears’ Shih Tzu, Eloise, loves to feel the wind in her fur.
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LAKE SCENE
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
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(1) Emily Shultz caught this beautiful sunset from the family lake house on Cooper Slough. (2) Jackson Kelly holds the 20.2 pound catfish he caught while fishing the lake with his dad and uncle. (3) Lydia Schultz sent this photo of the view from the backyard of her family’s lakehouse. (4) Whitney Daniel, 11 months old, loves camping at Wind Creek State Park. (5) Ashlyn Remillard caught Bo just as he left the dock in pursuit of the frisbee.
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WHERE IN THE WORLD IS LAKE?
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
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Reader Submissions (1) Susan McBride and 16 friends visited Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and took a copy of Lake with them. (2) Capt. David Bacon, Commander of Alabama National Guard’s Alpha Company 136 Expeditionary Signal Battalion, took Lake on deployment to Camp Beuhring, Kuwait. (3) Jenny Hall, Harriet White, Nina Johnson, Emma Mask, Teri Stephenson, Sharon Dollar, Cheryl Bynum, Elizabeth Yarborough and Emily Patterson prepare Lake for a boat ride on Lake Martin. (4) Joe and Jean Gravette, Elizabeth Yarbrough, Bucky Heard and Dorothy McKelvey took a magazine to Harrah's in Las Vegas, Nevada, where Heard has joined Bill Medley in bringing The Righteous Brothers back to the stage. (5) Lake saw the famous Cabo San Lucas arch in Mexico with Donnie, Holly and Doug Mitchell and Jill, Anna and Dan Allen.
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July 1 Friday On The Green
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
This Friday’s free concert WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature Visit Wind Creek State Park, Rexton Lee from take a photo and enter the 6:30 p.m. until Eighth Day Escape photo contest 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
July 1-31 Eighth Day Escape
Visit Wind Creek State Park and take part in the Eighth Day Escape photo contest. Visit www.alapark.com/ explorer for complete rules and entry forms.
Alabama Avenue is so excited to kick off 4th of July weekend at Chuck’s Marina on beautiful Lake Martin! Celebrate the grand opening of the new Chuckwalla pizza kitchen as you spend your Friday night singing and dancing under the stars.
July 2 Russell Crossroads Community Garden Club Pancake Breakfast
The Russell Crossroads Community Garden Club members will be up early cooking pancakes for all to enjoy at the Artist’s Cabin from 8 a.m until 10 a.m. on holiday weekend Saturdays. Come by, feed the family and help out the garden club.
July 2 Fireworks Bash
The Hackneyville Volunteer Fire Department will host its 4th annual Independence Day celebration and fireworks show from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 9461 Highway 63 North outside Alexander City. Kowaliga Country 97.5 will be on site, and guests can enjoy live music from Outshine and Rexton Lee.
Russell Crossroads once again will host this juried art show on the Town Green. Browse the tents and find that perfect piece for your lake home. There will be handmade pottery, photography, furniture, watercolors, oil paintings, 16 LAKE
July 3 Celebrate Freedom
The celebration begins at 6 p.m. on the lawn of Benjamin Russell High School in Alexander City. Celebrate the Fourth of July with a free concert and fireworks show at dark. Food vendors will be available. No private coolers allowed.
July 4 Russell Marine Fourth of July Boat Parade
July 1 Alabama Avenue at Chuck’s
July 2-3 Arti Gras
reclaimed wood décor, jewelry, soaps, jams, jellies and more from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. For information, call 256212-1416.
Decorate your boat and join the patriotic crowd at Kowaliga Marina as boats of all sizes, shapes and decorations parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor, circling past the lighthouse and making the return trip. Spectators line the shore along the route to applaud their favorite boats and contestants. Registered boats will vie for top honors for Largest Flag, Tallest Flag, Most Patriotic Crew, Most Creative and Best Overall. Boat parade starts at 10 a.m. Call 334-857-2111 to register or for information.
July 4 Fourth of July Blast
Find a spot on the grassy hillside at Lake Martin Amphitheater for the 16th annual Fourth of July Blast, as Russell Lands hosts the Southeast’s largest fireworks show over Lake Martin. Gates open at 5 p.m. Show starts at 6:30 p.m. The Bank Walkers and Sweet Tea will entertain, and the fireworks start at 9 p.m. Call 256-397-1019 for information.
July 8 Friday On the Green
This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature Joe Bagley from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
July 9 ACHRC Show
Alex City Horse Riding Club will host a horse riding show at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex at 1 p.m. For more information email achrcmail@yahoo.com.
JULY 2016
July 14, 15 & 17 Arsenic and Old Lace
The summer production for Alexander City Theatre II (ACT II) is the insanely hilarious Arsenic and Old Lace, one of community theatre’s most popular entertainment choices. Thursday and Friday show times are 7 p.m., and a Sunday matinee will begin at 2 p.m. All shows will be held at the Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium on Cherokee Road in Alexander City. Tickets are $10 and are available at Emporium Wine, Tallapoosa Publishers and at the door. ACT II is an all-volunteer non-profit theatre company. For more information, visit the Alexander City Theatre II Facebook page.
July 15 Friday On The Green
will kick off Friday, July 22, with gates opening at 5 p.m. and the rodeo starting at 7:30 p.m. Cowboys and cowgirls from the Bar W Rodeo Company will perform barrel racing, calf roping, bull riding and more. There will be kids’ activities and a rodeo expo area. Proceeds will benefit the Boys & Girls Club. Pre-show tickets can be purchased at the Boys & Girls Club office, Tractor Supply, Depot Music & Pawn or the Alexander City Parks & Recreation Office. Tickets are $7 each for adults and $3 for kids ages 15 and under. Tickets may also be purchased at the gate at $10 for adults and $5 for kids.
July 23-30 Sun Festival
This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature Jilla Webb and Kurt McKinney from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
The community-wide schedule of events for this annual fun-filled and action-packed week of celebration includes a Battle of the Bands at Strand Park, monster mural art, fishing, canoeing, a glow-in-the-dark fun run, sailing and the ever-popular Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt. Visit www.alexcitychamber.com/sunfest for a detailed schedule.
July 16 Summer Book Sale
July 30 Summer Reading Finale
The Friends of the Dadeville Public Library will host a book sale in the library basement at 205 N. West St. from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. The Friends will supply plastic bags for you to fill to the brim for $5 each, or buy two bags and get the third one free. Books include fiction, non-fiction, classics, art, romance, cookbooks, decorating, self-help, religion, history and politics, beautiful coffee table books and books to read to your children this summer. We also have several boxes of books recently donated for children and young readers. All proceeds go to improve the library. Call 256-825-7820 for information.
July 16 Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run
The 13th annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run will begin at The Ridge Marina and end at Kowaliga Restaurant to raise funds for local charities. Participants will travel from The Ridge Marina to River North, Harbor Pointe, Real Island and Kowaliga Marinas to collect the best hands. Prizes will be awarded at the after party at Kowaliga Restaurant.
July 22 Friday On the Green
This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature Jonathan Bloom from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
July 22-23 Boys & Girls Club Rodeo
Come celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Lake Martin Area Boys & Girls Club with a two-night rodeo at Alexander City’s Charles E. Bailey Sportplex. Festivities
Meet for lunch and games at 10 a.m. at the Sportplex gym for the Mamie Place Children’s Library summer reading program finale. Call 256-234-4644 for information.
July 30 ACHRC Show
Alex City Horse Riding Club will host a horse riding show at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex at 1 p.m. For more information email achrcmail@yahoo.com.
Aug. 5 Friday On The Green
This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature The Bank Walkers from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
Aug. 6 Russell Marine’s Riverfront Wake Battle
The best wakeboard and wakeskate riders in the Southeast will battle it out for $7,000 in prizes at the Riverfront in Montgomery. For information, visit www. RussellMarine.net or call 256-794-1397.
Aug. 12 Friday On The Green
This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature Sid Phelps from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
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Season-Long Events Strand Sessions
Free live music and fun await in Alexander City’s Strand Park each Thursday from May 5 through August 4 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Bring coolers, chairs and blankets and enjoy this hometown concert series sponsored by the Lake Martin Young Professionals.
Bowling Pin Shoot
The Alexander City Shooting Club holds competitive bowling pin matches on the third Sunday of each month from April through October. Everyone is welcome to the range at Coley Creek Road to watch for free. Cost to participate is $10 per shooter per gun. Matches begin at 2 p.m. Upcoming dates are Aug. 14, Sept. 18 and Oct. 16. For more information, call Woody Baird at 256-329-0080 or visit www.alexandercityshootingclub.com.
Rd., Equality. Everyone is welcome. Admission is $3 per adult; bring a covered dish to share. Some nights are “themed,” so call ahead to find out if costumes or certain types of food are in order. For more information, contact Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724.
Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours
Naturalist Marianne Hudson fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl, just to mention a few. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature in the wild and the outdoor classroom. Your children will love every minute. Check the calendar at calendar.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.
Yoga On The Green
Trade Day, Millerville
With The Stables as a back-drop, the Town Green is the perfect place to discover your inner being through yoga at 7 a.m. every Saturday from Memorial Day weekend through Oct. 1. Great for beginners and the experienced; just bring your mat and water bottle.
Library Storytime in Dadeville
Friday On The Green
Find clothes, dishes, artwork, antiques and flower arrangements, refreshments and military uniforms at the Millerville Trade Day the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Bibb Graves School on Highway 9. For information, call Doris Stewart at 256-839-5254. Storytime for children ages 5 and younger is held at the Dadeville Public Library every Tuesday at 10 a.m.
Library Storytime in Alexander City
Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Watch a kid-friendly movie at Mamie’s Place on the first Tuesday of each month. The show starts 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. There is a $10 fee per television. For more information, call Sabrina Wood at 334-429-8832 or Amanda Thomas at 256409-2020.
Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store
Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 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.
Real Island Supper
The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room, 1495 Real Island 18 LAKE
Wind your busy week down on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads with live music, lawn games and time with the family and friends through Sept. 23. Bring your coolers, blankets and chairs, kids and pets and enjoy the music free of charge from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. every Friday except July 29 (Sun Festival’s Battle of the Bands).
Wine Tastings
Come by Catherine’s Market at Russell Crossroads for wine tastings on Fridays through Sept. 2 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sample a variety of wines for $5, and then apply that $5 to your purchase of a bottle of your favorite flavor from the night’s sampling.
Church of the Living Waters
Everyone is invited to attend services by guest pastors all summer long at Church of the Living Waters at Stillwaters. All services begin at 9 a.m. and are casual in attire. Communion will be served July 17 and Sept. 4. Come by boat, car or bicycle and worship on the water! For details, call 256-825-9808. July 3: Brandon Morgan July 10: Rev. James Cullins July 17: Rev. Rusty Hutson July 24: Mike Loken July 31: Rev. K.G. Jones Aug. 7: Rev. Ed Hornig Aug. 14: Rev. Tommy Greer Aug. 21: Dr. Roy Hornsby Aug. 28: Dr. Joel Richardson Sept. 4: Rev. Carment Falcione
JULY 2016
SUMMER is HERE! Are YOU Ready? Call today about Summer Specials for ALL LASER HAIR REMOVAL! We treat men, too!
(256) 825-2304
WELLNESS CENTER AT LAKE MARTIN
The Path To A Lifetime of Wellness
a division of
201 Mariarden Road, Dadeville, AL • 256-825-7821 www.lakemartinhospital.com
LAKE MARTIN PHARMACY
Kyle Sanford, PharmD
NOW OFFERING PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY SERVICE • Competitive Prices • Most Insurance Plans Accepted • Gift Shop (Purses, Handbags, YellowBox, Girlie Girl, Auburn/Alabama gear, Monogramming)
Call Lake Martin Pharmacy for more information 256-825-7822. Monday-Friday 8:30-6:00pm • Saturday 8:30-noon
301 Mariarden Road, Suite A
JULY 2016
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Lake Martin News Lake Martin park wins TripAdvisor excellence rating Wind Creek State Park on Lake Martin is among 11 Alabama state parks that received TripAdvisor.com’s 2016 Certificate of Excellence. TripAdvisor is a travel website featuring travelergenerated content and reviews. “Over the last three years several of our parks have received an increasing number of excellence awards from TripAdvisor,” said Rob Grant, Assistant Director of Alabama State Parks. “We are extremely proud that our customers regard their state parks in such a consistently positive manner. The entire parks division deeply appreciates our staff, park volunteers and the customers who make these awards possible.” It was the second consecutive year Wind Creek received the award. The award celebrates establishments that provide excellent guest experiences and consistently achieve positive reviews on the TripAdvisor website, tripadvisor.com. Some examples of the reviews Wind Creek has received on TripAdvisor include excellent ratings from users Askew Family Trips, Daniel K and staug2015. “Get there early, but the folks at the boat rental place are great and prices are better than anywhere else around. We rented a bass boat for the day and had a really good time,” wrote Askew Family Trips. “We rented a boat here to go fishing for two days,” wrote Daniel K. “The people in the rental/store facility were so friendly, helpful and efficient, we really appreciated them. Their rental prices, minnow prices, etc., are very reasonable. They have a ton of stuff in their store: tackle, food, clothing, camping supplies, etc. The docks and boat ramps here are superb.” “We arrived at about 5 on a Friday,” wrote staug2015, who visited Wind Creek in April. “Several other people arrived at the same time. The staff at the check-in area were very friendly and very efficient. I think of the five groups that were trying to check in at the same time, none of us had our license plate numbers with us. Check-in was great anyway. “The staff was great about explaining where the sites 20 LAKE
were and very accommodating where site selection was concerned. There were plenty of playgrounds for the kids. Bathhouses were really nice, not crowded and the water was nice and hot. We felt very safe letting our kids ride their bikes and go off in pairs. “There was nothing bad about this trip at all.” For three years, Alabama State Parks has been recognized by TripAdvisor for excellence in proRecreation and swimming viding lodging, helped to win a TripAdvisor access to nature excellence rating for Wind and outdoor activiCreek State Park ties. This year, the parks system received 17 awards, an increase from 11 in 2015. A state park concessionaire also received the award. The Alabama State Parks Division relies on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities to fund the majority of their operations. To learn more about Alabama State Parks, visit www.alapark.com. ~ David Granger
Memorial Day busy for marine police on Lake Martin
Marine police issued 49 citations and 116 warnings over Memorial Day weekend on Lake Martin, as an estimated 10,000 boaters flocked to the water to enjoy what is considered the kickoff to the summer boating season. Officials with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Marine Police Unit were out in force over the weekend and said while Lake Martin did escape without any major incidents, that doesn’t mean that the area escaped without law enforcement action on the water. ALEA Marine Police Unit’s Sgt. Steve Fuller released statistics from the Memorial Day weekend that prove that no matter how much advance work law enforcement officials do to educate and warn boaters, some have to learn the hard way. Fuller reported that over the long holiday weekend 49 citations or arrests were handled, and officers issued 116 warnings. Marine Police also assisted three boaters, worked one accident and reported two injuries. “Marine Patrol Troopers have been diligently working to create a highly visible presence to encourage voluntary compliance with the boating laws and public safety,” ALEA Spokesman Sgt. Steve Jarrett said.
JULY 2016
MEMORIAL DAY INCIDENTS ON LAKE MARTIN
Careless operation of a vessel 4 Registration Violation 7 Emergency switch not attached 7 Insufficient PFD’s 3 Riding a PWC w/o a PFD 1 Overloaded vessel 3 Obstructed view 1 Violating regulatory buoys 4 No boater’s license 7 B.U.I. 2 D.U.I. 1 Speeding 1 Child under 8 not wearing PFD 3 Minor possessing/consuming alcohol 5 Written warnings 116 Assisted boaters 3 Accidents 1 Injuries 2 ~ Mitch Sneed
Crews turn out for CRATA trail maintenance
Some might mistake him for a prison guard watching the chain gang on the side of the road by the way he leads a trail maintenance crew. “You will need to use a regular weed eater here,” Jimmy Lanier told his crew at the base of Smith Mountain. “There are too many rocks to use that one.” Harold Banks, who is more known for paddling the waters beneath the trail system, made a joke about Lanier before the work crew set off to clear some of the trails on Smith Mountain last month. “He is such a slave driver,” Banks said Jimmy Lanier cuts weed with a smile. growth on the Little The friendly crew Smith Mountain trail had gathered to help make the trails more accessible by cutting some of the spring growth. “We work on the trails about once a year,” Lanier said. “Usually, in June we will go through and cut back bushes and things that have grown up. We cut them back then and it usually works out so that you do not have to cut again until the next year.” ~ Cliff Williams JULY 2016
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Britt Creek Scenic beauty and great fishing define this open slough in Lake Martin’s uppermost reaches
63
Timbergut Landing
22
280
Horseshoe Bend National Park
Jaybird Landing
Alexander City
Camp ASCCA
Flint Hill Church 280
Britt Creek
49
2
Jacksons Gap Wind Creek State Park
Piney Woods Landing
280 Pleasant Grove Church
11
Alex City Boat Ramp
Mt. Zion Church
63
Friendship Church
Dadeville
Bethel Church
128
Russell Farms Baptist Church
GEOGRAPHY 101 D.A.R.E. Park Landing
57
280
New Hope Church
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE
Liberty Church
Willow Point
Camp Hill
Smith Landing Pleasant Ridge Church
24 LAKE Kowaliga Boat Landing
34
63 Camp Alamisco
JULY 2016 Lake Martin Baptist Church 49
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ritt Creek joins Lake Martin north of Sturdivant. Owned by Alabama Power Company, most of its shoreline is classified as natural and undeveloped land and is accessible for camping, hiking and other recreational purposes. On the creek’s northern bank, Easter Seals operates Camp ASSCA, a nationally renowned leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities. Because Britt Creek lies well above the River Bridge on Lake Martin’s east side, camp residents enjoy the relative quiet and often have exclusive recreational use of the area. They do have to share the creek with fishermen, however. Britt Creek is a prime fishing area for largemouth and striper bass. The rocky banks, wood cover, points and islands provide plenty of cover for large, predatory fish, and the wide creek bed has benefited from fish habitat enhancement projects in recent years, especially along the southern banks of the slough. Located at 32 55 12.1 North and 85 51 18.2 West, Britt Creek is about 30 feet deep at full summer pool is was the site of the Old Stow Ferry that once ran from the south bank to a large unnamed island at the mouth of the creek and then across the Tallapoosa River to a peninsula near the Alexander City public boat ramps.
JULY 2016
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LAKE 27
Ante up for charity 13th Annual Lions Lake Martin Poker Run raises funds for local non-profits STORY BY MIA OSBORN
P
repare to gamble on a great time on the water. The 13th Annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run is coming on Saturday, July 16. This all-day adventure will raise money for local charities while giving participants a chance to win thousands in cash and prizes. And it’s a lot of fun. Poker runners will board their boats at The Ridge Marina on the morning of July 16 and set out, stopping at four other Lake Martin marinas on their way to Kowaliga Restaurant. At each stop, players will receive one card. When the party comes ashore at the restaurant, the players with the top three highest poker hands will be awarded a cash prize. In addition, prizes will be given to the bottom three worst hands and the top three best-dressed crews, according to the 28 LAKE
JULY 2016
Opposite: Winners from a previous Poker Run with their spoils; Teams celebrate with a tasty post-run meal. This page: Themed crews of the past have included floating Playboy bunnies and the Gilligan’s Island gang.
theme. “This year, we’ll have a casino theme; that will be exciting,” said Russell Marine President Dave Commander. The poker run entry fee is $150 per participant, for which players will receive an official poker run T-shirt, a Summertime Lake Martin shirt, two meal tickets for the after-party at Kowaliga Restaurant and one key to a treasure chest filled with $2,000 worth of prizes. During the after-party, the holder of the winning key will take it all. Before the awards ceremony at Kowaliga Restaurant, players will have a chance to improve their hands by purchasing one additional card for $25. These additional card purchases will only be available at Kowaliga Restaurant between 2 and 4 p.m., Commander said. Additional meal tickets may be purchased for a $10 donation. Proceeds from the poker run go to Lake Martin area charities, such as the Humane Society, Children’s Harbor and the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center. “We had over $15,000 raised last year,” said Commander. “Since we’ve been doing this, we’ve
raised over $200,000 for local charities.” This year’s run should also prove popular and profitable; Commander has already fielded many requests for information on the details. “We’re already getting calls. It looks like we’ll have a really good event this year,” he said. Registration begins at The Ridge Marina at 8:30 a.m. Players may pick up their first cards there until 11 a.m. Cards two through five can be picked up at River North Marina from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Harbor Pointe Marina from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Real Island Marina from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Kowaliga Marina from 12 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Kowaliga Restaurant after-party will take place from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Winners will be announced at 4:30 p.m. and winners must be present to claim their prizes. Entry forms are available online at www.russellmarine.net or at participating marinas. Checks should be made payable to the Alexander City Lions Club. For more information, call 256-212-1416.
JULY 2016
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Help Us Work for the
Betterment of Lake Martin
An all volunteer, member-funded organization serving Lake Martin since 1972
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$
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• Hazardous Buoy Maintenance • Membership Advocacy • Lake Cleanups • Property Protection • Environmental Education
To join visit www.lmra.info or call 256-329-0835 30 LAKE
JULY 2016
A jumper at Chimney Rock gathers his courage
The flag waves in the lake breeze at Smith's Marina A hazard marker provides a convenient nest platform
PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE MONTH LINDSEY DIETZ
A rising high school senior at Trinity Christian School in Sharpsburg, Georgia, Lindsey Dietz loves using her mom’s Canon Rebel XTi when the family visits their Stillwaters condominium on Lake Martin. “We come for two weeks at the beginning and the end of summer and weekends when we can in-between,” Dietz said. Her favorite subjects are people in everyday life situations, animals and sunsets on the lake. Lindsey, who will turn 17 this month, hopes to attend Georgia College at Milledgeville and transfer to Savannah College of Art and Design with a photojournalism major. “I’ve always been interested in politics and war, and I would like to capture that for people who don’t know much about it,” she said. A dragon fly catches some sun on a stump
Kim and Jack on the boat Johnny, a resident of Goat Island
Mason kneeboarding in Blue Creek
JULY 2016
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How to Watch Fireworks at the Lake STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE
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The scramble for the best place to watch the fireworks begins well before dark at the Lake Martin Amphitheater, and there are several viewing options from which to choose. Some are safer and better vantage points than others, said Russell Lands Events Coordinator Robert Gunn. “For me, the best place is sitting on the hill at the AMP. Before the fireworks start, there’s a concert and hula hoop contests. And you can lay back on the ground and watch the fireworks explode over your head,” Gunn said. “You can bring a cooler, a chair or a blanket, but don’t bring pets to the AMP. You can bring your own beverages and snacks, or you can purchase barbecue at the concessions if you don’t want to pack your own food.” The Bank Walkers will start the party rolling at 6:30 p.m. this year, and Sweet Tea will play at 8 p.m., after the hula hoop and twist competitions. The fireworks start at 9 p.m., and when they’re over, Sweet Tea will play for another hour, which helps to alleviate the traffic congestion after the fireworks, Gunn said. Tickets for the concert are $15, and the gates open at 5 p.m. “We don’t charge anyone to park just in the field,” Gunn said. “Of course, the only fireworks you’ll see from there are the ones that rise above the tree line, but that’s still safer than parking out on the highway to watch.” No one is allowed to park on the bridge, said Senior State Trooper Frank Cartwright, and law enforcement officials will be present during the event to regulate parking and the passing traffic. “There will be no parking, stopping or slowing down on the Kowaliga Bridge unless directed by a law enforcement officer,” Cartwright said. Leaving the amphitheater can take as long as 30 minutes, even with the help of security officers. “There are several thousand people who watch the fireworks from boats,” Gunn added. If watching from the water, make sure all navigation and running lights work before you leave home and all required safety equipment is on board and operational. Marine troopers will be patrolling the lake, Cartwright said. “With hundreds of boats in such close proximity, it is extremely important that navigation lights are working properly,” he said. In addition, several Keep Out buoys will mark an exclusion zone in front of the amphitheater to prevent boats from entering an area where pieces of the fireworks would fall. Vessels are not allowed to cross these buoys or tie up to them, Cartwright said. “Keep a proper lookout; be courteous to other boaters and take your time getting to where you need to go,” he said.
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How to party Lake Martin style STORY BY MIA OSBORN & PHOTOS BY MITCH SNEED
Left: The Forbus family gathering has grown to include more than 100 guests each year. Above: Levi Forbus enjoys a piece of fresh watermelon.
J
uly Fourth is the perfect time for a party at the lake. Kids are out of school; families are reunited; and the water is fine. But planning the bash of the summer can be daunting. To help would-be hosts get the (beach) ball rolling, Lake turned to the local experts. The Forbus family of Alexander City throw an annual fish fry of legendary proportions. The event began humbly at the family lake cabin more than 50 years ago. These days, siblings Wayne Forbus and Robbie Jones, along with Robbie’s husband, James, regularly entertain more than 100 people each Independence Day at the Jones’ Shady Point home. It helps to have prep work spread out over several people, or at least several days, Robbie said. Forbus and James Jones start the setup around July 1. The huge tent that will house the food goes up first, then come the outdoor tables and seating. For her part, Robbie stocks up on paper products and disposable cutlery and takes care of cleaning and
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preparing the house for guests. “I always have my house clean before I open my doors to the multitudes,” she explained. “It probably doesn’t matter to them, but it matters to me.” The next step is food preparation. The Forbus family likes to get a big headstart here, as well. James, Wayne and other family members who fish save all their catfish for the party. Each fish fry calls for about 40 pounds of dressed fish and equal amounts of French fries, hush puppies, onion rings and other fry-able fare. In recent years, James and Wayne have gotten a commercial cooker to help them save time. But cooking still begins at around 9 a.m. on the morning of July Fourth, so lunch can be ready by noon. Even if party organizers have a hard time finding help, Wayne Forbus has discovered there is one job that everyone wants: food checker. “When we start cooking, we have a bunch of food tast-
JULY 2016
ers,” he said. “Everybody gathers around the first batch and takes a little, to make sure it’s okay.” It’s important to make sure there’s enough food to go around and that party organizers get their own plates made up before their creations go out to the guests. Robbie learned this lesson the hard way. “Last year, I got a bunch of fried green tomatoes,” she said. “I thought, ‘oh, these are going to be so good!’ But by the time I got over there to the table, there were none left!” The family supplies the fried stuff, but they also encourage guests to bring potluck-style covered dishes. Last year’s fish fry saw Wayne’s son, Charles Forbus, playing the national anthem on his electric guitar. But overall, the Forbus family doesn’t stress about providing entertainment for their party guests. “I always enjoy my family,” said Robbie. “I enjoy the tales that are told sitting around the table, and just the fellowship of being together. We see people we don’t get to see every day.” Younger family members usually bring games to play on the lawn. And, like any summer gathering on Lake Martin, the lake itself is the star of the show. The moral of the Forbus’ story is to concentrate on gathering fun people together, and the entertainment will take care of itself. Guests may not need to be entertained, but they do need to be comfortable. James and Wayne make sure there are seating options indoors (i.e. in the air conditioning) for elderly guests and those who need to get out of the heat. Tables and chairs placed on the pier give more adventurous diners a way to keep cool with a quick dip in the lake. The Forbus family has also found that large fans can pull double duty, giving guests a welcome breeze and repelling bugs at the same time. “We put four or five big fans all around the place to keep flies away from the food,” said James. “Flies and mosquitos don’t like the wind.” If you don’t have fans, carefully placed citronella candles can help keep unwelcome bugs at bay. Make sure there is plenty of water, shade and sunblock available to guests; heat stroke is no one’s idea of a good time. Making a plan for leftovers can save hosts time and effort when they’re tired from entertaining. The Forbus family lets guests take home any leftovers they want. It’s a generous move that also leaves them with less clean up. In years when there are lots of leftovers, Wayne donates them to the local fire department, but with 100-plus hungry guests, that hasn’t happened for a while. After all is said and done, the cleanup begins. James relies on his pressure washer to clean out the cooking supplies. Meanwhile, Robbie re-cleans the inside of the house and gathers up the lost items that people inevitably leave behind. “It normally takes about three days to get everything washed and put up and find out who left this and who left that,” said Wayne. Hosts should be prepared for their house to be a lost-andfound for a few days after the party. A Facebook event page can do wonders for this problem; posting notices of found items will help guests relocate swimsuits, sneakers and cellphones and can help them schedule a time to pick up their items.
Tips for Safe Grilling The Forbus family may use commercial cookers to fry their food, but grills are the traditional way to prepare July Fourth feasts. Grilled food is tasty, but there is a lot that can go wrong. According to the U.S. Government’s Food Safety website, one in six Americans suffer some form of food poisoning each year. That risk increases in summer, mainly due to leaving food out too long in warm weather. Follow these tips from Regional Extension Agent Patti West to keep July Fourth barbecue guests happy and healthy: Watch the Clock. Perishable food shouldn’t sit out more than two hours at room temperature. In temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, that window shrinks to one hour. To ensure food is safe, keep an eye on the clock. Chill out! Foods that must be kept cold include raw meat and seafood; deli meats; sandwiches; summer salads, such as tuna or egg salad; raw fruits and vegetables; and dairy products. Store perishable food in a cooler when it’s not needed. Whenever possible, coolers should be stored in the shade to help them maintain temperature. Avoid opening the cooler more than needed; it will help food stay cooler, longer. Divide and Conquer. Always have two sets of cutting boards and utensils: one set for raw meat and another for ready-to-eat items like fruit, vegetables and bread. Never use plates, tongs or other items that have touched raw meat to serve food that has been cooked. Turn Up the Heat. A food thermometer is the grill master’s best friend. The minimum internal temperature for steaks, roasts and chops is 145 degrees Fahrenheit (after resting off the grill for three minutes). Ground red meats or burgers should be 160 degrees Fahrenheit on the inside, and poultry should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit. For more information, visit www.foodsafety.gov.
JULY 2016
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JULY 2016
LAKE 37
How to Watch the Boat Parade An observer’s guide to this annual Lake Martin Indpendence Day event STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE
T
he annual Russell Marine Fourth of July Boat Parade will be bigger and better this year, so you’ll want to claim the best vantage point for viewing early, said event coordinator Robert Gunn. “There are good spots all the way around the route if you’re watching from the land. The boats come under the bridge and turn at the lighthouse, so the best spots are probably on the Children’s Harbor campus, around the lighthouse and Harbor House,” Gunn said. “Along the beach from Kowaliga Restaurant to the bridge are good spots, too.” Watching from the bridge is not allowed, Gunn said. “The parade starts at 10, so it would be a good idea to 38 LAKE
get there at about 9:30 to get a good spot,” he added. If you plan to imbibe, remember that alcohol is not permitted on the Children’s Harbor campus, and any alcohol consumed on the restaurant property must be bought at the restaurant. The traffic leaving the boat parade is not as congested as that leaving the concert and fireworks event, Gunn said. “It usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes to get everyone out. Just be patient and courteous,” he said. If you plan to watch the parade from a boat, remember to leave the parade plenty of room to maneuver, especially around the lighthouse where participants
JULY 2016
Patriotic costumes are attire of choice at the Russell Marine Fourth of July Boat Parade
Crews vie for the title of Most Patriotic
make the turn. “They will need about a 50-yard buffer,” Gunn said. “It’s not a marked route, so you kind of have to guess, but about 100 yards from shore on the way to Children’s Harbor should be good.” Parade watchers should leave open the access to the first two bridge sections on the Kowaliga side of the lake, he said. The parade progresses at idle speed, but with more than 75 entries and several hundred observation craft, the water can get rough. “Just be careful. Nobody anchors out there, so everyone is moving around a little.” Judging for the biggest flag, best decorations, most
patriotic and other prize categories takes place at the lighthouse, and prizes are awarded at the marina once the parade boats have returned. ‘Entrants will go back the same way they came, so if you’re watching from a boat, don’t close the ranks behind the parade,” he said. When you do leave the parade area, be aware of the boat traffic around you. Be courteous to other drivers and use caution. As Marine Police Commander Capt. Jon Archer often says, “Don’t ever be in a hurry on the lake.”
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Luxury living on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Happiness awaits just outside Auburn University. Hidden away in the world-class golf courses at RTJ Grand National, the community of National Village offers everything you’ll need for everyday living. Reside in award-winning craftsman-style cottages, explore miles of picturesque nature trails, and enjoy multiple fishing and boating options on our lakes. Dive into the new resort pools and serve up some fun at the new tennis and pickle ball complex. Golfers will love the three courses at Grand National on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Homes from $200,000’s to over $500,000 in three distinctive neighborhoods. HOST TO BARBASOL CHAMPIONSHIP JULY 14TH – 17TH
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LAKE 41
Crowds gathered early in Strand Park on the first of Jazz Fest's two nights
JAZZY N
STORY BY MITCH SNEED PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE, MITCH SNEED & CLIFF WILLIAMS
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NIGHTS JULY 2016
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or 26 years, musicians have performed from the stages of Jazz Fest. One would be hard pressed to recall a better two-night run in that quarter of a century than this year’s lineup at Strand Park in Alexander City and The Lake Martin Amphitheater, where audiences were treated to six incredible acts, perfect weather and some of the hottest sounds in music. No exact attendance was taken, but Jazz Fest’s Robert Gunn said Friday night’s crowd was the largest in recent memory. “I’m not the best with numbers, and it’s hard to compare because of the rains we’ve had in the last several years,” Gunn said. “But if I were guessing, I’d say it would be between 3,000 and 4,000. That hill was full for sure.” Saturday was equally impressive as a late-arriving crowd was treated to cooler temperatures, due to thunderstorms scattered around the area. But the rain held off, and the music was incredible. Jimmy Hall and Wet Willie closed the event Saturday night with some beloved classics and some of their own new fusion of blues, funk and jazz. It may have been 42 years since they first hit the charts with Keep on Smilin, but the band with Mobile roots had a sound that was as pure as it was four decades ago. “You all don’t know how lucky you are to have an event like this,” Hall said from the stage. “You have some great people here who make this happen, and we are glad to be a part of it again this year.” Gunn said that was a great way to end the show. “At 72, Jimmy Hall can still hit all the high notes,” Gunn said. “That was a really great night from beginning to end.” Saturday also featured Gravy, as well as the hot sounds of the Brass-a-holics. They were funky, fun and had the crowd at The AMP on their feet as a cool breeze blew through the venue. Saturday’s features came on the heels of a Friday night show in which Tab Benoit and his New Orleans “Swamp Music” simply tore up the stage at Strand Park in downtown Alexander City. “The big sound that Tab Benoit brought with a threepiece band was incredible,” Gunn said. “He’s great, and I think the people who were there walked away knowing that.” Roman Street and Jonathan Bloom were also featured Friday night. In a friendly competition that has become a Jazz Fest tradition, the table designed by The Alexander City Outlook’s Linda Ewing took Best Dressed Table honors. Kowaliga Country won the award for Best Food Presentation. Gunn said that he couldn’t say thank you enough the committee, the city, all the sponsors and the volunteers who worked so hard to make the event a success. “People kept calling my name from the stage, but this was a team effort, and without all the people who played a role, it wouldn’t have been possible,” Gunn said. “I want to thank everyone who played a role. It took a lot of people working very hard to pull it all off. They deserve all the credit and thanks.”
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Clockwise from top left: Tallapoosa Publishers won first place in this year's table decoration contest with their " We're Doggone Jazzed for News" theme; The Brass-a-Holics traveled from New Orleans to bring their sounds to the stage; Jimmy Hall belts it out during Wet Willie's closing act; Crowds gather at the stage for the headline act at The Amp; Roman Street brought soulful instrumentals to the Friday night show in Strand Park; A memorial was set up to honor recently deceased Alexander City mascot Thomas Jacob Marbury, Jr.; Guests took in the scenery of the lake while soaking up the sounds of the 26th Annual Jazz Fest event.
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As a teenager, Nadean Holley of Wetumpka watched the dam go up, week by week
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Lake Martin History:
E
Nadean Holley STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTOS BY SUELLEN YOUNG & COURTESY OF ALABAMA POWER COMPANY CORPORATE ARCHIVES
ven as early as 88 years ago, Chimney Rock attracted adventure seekers, said 102-year-old Nadean Butler Holley, who grew up just 16 miles from Martin Dam and remembers watching its construction. “My grandfather bought a car – not many people had them, you know – and he liked machinery. He wanted to go see the construction process, so on weekends, we’d ride up to see how far they’d come on it,” Holley said. “I was 10 or 12 years old when they started it, and it was kind of exciting. They had measured it all out, where it was going to be, and we studied the charts and went to see. Seemed like big things were The construction of Martin Dam happening every week or brought desperately needed job two.” to East Central Alabama Born in 1914, Holley said the dam project was greeted with cheers by most of the local population. “It was the Great Depression, and the dam brought jobs. There weren’t many jobs for people before the dam, just a few factory jobs, so we were glad to have the dam going in,” she explained. “There were a lot of people who had to move away from their places to make the lake. I think the company had someone who handled all of that for them, made the arrangements for them. It was 90 years ago,” she said. After the dam was finished in 1926, it took two years to fill it, and Holley used to go to the lake for picnics and overnight camping excursions. “We lived close enough to go for just the day, but I liked to go overnight,” she said. “We would pick a place with good flat ground. “Chimney Rock was on what we called the Carlisle Backwater, and even then, some of them told stories of climbing up and jumping off. It was a well-known area. Maybe there would be about a dozen boats at Chimney Rock on a busy weekend then.” Today, more than 100 boats gather beneath the rock on a holiday weekend to watch a parade of brave fools leap from its 50-foot height into the lake below. “The lake level fluctuated a lot then. It filled up more than
it does now, and it would go down more than it does now,” she said. “When we went to town, we would have to cross the lake. Sometimes, we went over the bridge, and other times we went across on a float (ferry). I didn’t like the float. We would drive the car onto it, and it didn’t hold but two or three cars. It was rocking and kind of scary.” Holley’s father owned a farm near Eclectic, and his nine children grew up working on it. The five girls worked in the house and garden, and the boys worked in the field. But Holley also remembers having to pick cotton one year. “It was the worst job,” she said. “It went on for about a month. It was hot, and you wore a sack. You had to bend over, and it hurt your back,” she said. The cotton picking interrupted the school year, she explained, as did planting season. “We had nine months of school, but it was split up. Some of it was summer school when it was too hot to work mid-summer on the farm. There was a long break in the spring and another one in the fall to work on the farm,” she said. In addition to the farm, her father owned a mill where he milled lumber and flour and ginned cotton. “The mill only ran on certain days,” she said. Before the family purchased a 1925 Model T, she said, they used buggies and wagons for transportation. Once they purchased the car, she tried to always be about the house when it was being decided who would make the excursion to the lake. “I loved to go,” she said. “The lake was good. It built the country up, and it was the first thing that did that. It made us prosperous to have the lake, and there was more to do, more to think about.” Holley has lived all her life in Elmore County and now resides in Wetumpka. She is the mother of six children, and one of her sons now lives on the lake she watched grow into being.
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jewelry, & y r e t t o p handmade or wood dec d e im a l c e r
furniture , photogr aphy, paintings, & more
Make Memories
Russell Lands On Lake Martin & Russell Marine
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A farmhouse table makes the vaulted dining area feel homey
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Mid-century Redo A half-round window above beveled glass doors hints at the home's spectacular view
I
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
t was formal and dated. And really pink. And cut up into boxes with walls that obscured one of the best views of the lake: a panoramic picture of Big Kowaliga Creek to the north and west – and south; 220 degrees at the end of Willow Point’s Lakeview Drive. Joe and Amy Guerra bought the sprawling Willow Point home at the end of 2014 and went right to work on the update. “We took out everything that obstructed the view,” Amy said. From the entry, the Guerras and their guests now can take in an expansive view that includes the former Scrushy mansion – now painted a gray/green that blends with the shroud of maturing trees – to the natural and undeveloped Land Between the Lakes across the water to the west. It’s a view made all the more spectacular by a collection of windows in the Guerras’ two-story great room gable above glass panels that line the room from the fireplace cabinets on the east wall to the intimate breakfast alcove on the west, encompassing living room, dining and kitchen. While the couple preserved the huge timbers on the gabled ceiling, they removed large columns and relocated the fireplace to create a space that would accommodate large-scale entertaining and extended family gatherings. A wide hearth of gray fieldstones, stacked in a Mondrian
pattern to reflect the home’s contemporary roots, anchors the living area, a warm and surprisingly cozy space despite its incorporation of three major living areas and ability to accommodate more than 26 diners at one sitting. Behind the living room is the perfect football setup – a long bar that faces a large screen television over the mantel. The guests who arrived early obviously would snag the four white leather bar stools for the duration of the game, but there’s plenty of seating throughout the room for everyone else. A woven Native American rug defines the most formal dining option in the home – a farmhouse table surrounded by eight upholstered chairs under an iron chandelier that drops from the ceiling vault. And beyond that, a working island that is perfect for the display of a sumptuous buffet or the best of the tailgate finger foods. Opposite this island, a discreet hallway houses a large pantry, laundry and bedroom suite or out-of-the-way den/office on the way to the garage. An 8-foot by 8-foot island dominates the room’s kitchen with a gray base of square raised cabinets under a wood countertop, trimmed in stainless steel. While two long sides of the island could seat as many as eight, the island feature also includes ample workspace in the kitchen’s galley. The stainless appliances here include a six-burner Wolf unit with built-in griddle and double ovens.
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A stacked fieldstone fireplace lends warmth to the renovation's contemporary style
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The master bedroom has access to the home's wide decks and exceptional lake view
An artistic tile treatment provides a backdrop for the bowl tub
The Guerras blended the home's modern styling with rustic finishes
The kitchen has been upgraded with new cabinetry, tilework, flooring and gourmet appliances
An octogonal nest deck looks out on Land Between the Lakes
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The homeowners retained the original barrel entry
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The deck off the living room was expanded to make the most of the home's view
ceilinged retreat includes the home’s An informal dining table is set jewel – a modern, accommodating next to the view off the kitchen as master bath that looks nothing like another great lakeside option. And the home’s original. a breakfast bar tops the working The updated bath pampers the side of the kitchen with a slab of owners with a large pebble-floored tree trunk 10 feet long. Its sides, shower, a private commode closet, though sanded smooth, retain the separate vanities that each enjoy characteristic undulating edge of counters the full length of the room, rough timber. two walk-in closets and an invitLastly, overlooking the home’s ing centerpiece – a bowl tub placed lakeside swimming pool, a round beside an alcove wall of narrow breakfast table for four enjoys white three-dimensional tiles artfully its own beautiful picture of Lake alternated with flat gray tile strips. Martin. It is a room that promises luxurious Russell Home Décor’s Nan relaxation. Jackson helped the family choose Native American rugs add color and a The master suite also accesses the solid-surface countertops and cabipersonal touch to the rooms home’s lakeside deck, much of it nets in varying shades from black covered. Benches and hedges line the to dark and medium gray that tie edges of decks that offer numerous vantage points for takthe room together, despite the great distance from one end ing in the lake view, including an octagonal nest deck on the to the other. Hardwood floors of 7-inch board-widths also property’s point. The Guerras extended the deck space outcarry the space, and Jackson helped the owners choose a side the living room to create a transition from one side of new wall color that unites the space and reflects the natural the house to the other that better accommodates guests and light that brings the Guerras’ lake view indoors. showcases the rare view inside Willow Point’s gate. All on one level, most of the home’s five bedrooms and Though the Guerras have not yet finished the renovaprivate baths – including a breathtaking master – enjoy the privacy of a discreet hallway near the living room fireplace. tion of their lake home, their updates of the essential living spaces have accentuated the home’s high points, matching The master to the left is a spacious, comfortable room with upscale design with its original mid-century modern style, glass-panel windows on the lakeside wall. Furnished in the sans the pink. rustic cottage style so popular at Lake Martin, the highJULY 2016
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Ospreys
Lake Martin’s ‘second rate’ bird of prey
O
ne of Lake Martin’s most impressive bird species is almost 6 feet. These birds are unusual because they are found across the Osprey. But this very large hawk often plays second-fid- the world, with subspecies found in North America, the dle to another large Lake Martin bird of prey, the Bald Eagle, Caribbean, and the arctic regions. Recently the Asian variety, formerly another subspecies, was upgraded to a new species which is the darling of patriotic lake birdwatchers. status with the common name The two birds are sometimes Eastern Osprey. confused because of their similar For several years, an osprey pair The American subspecies goes size and shape. has nested at The Ridge Marina by the scientific name Pandion That’s a shame because the haliaetus carolinensis and has Osprey is a fascinating and a number of common names impressive lake resident in its including sea hawk, fish Eagle, own right, and it is easily distinfish hawk and river hawk. guished from a bald eagle with a Ospreys hunt by searching for little practice. fish from high in the air, then A mature Bald Eagle has an hovering above fish spotted near all-white head, but Ospreys have the surface, before diving – feet white heads with prominent first – to snatch their meals from brown stripes on the sides of their the water with bone-crushingly faces and through their eyes. strong talons. Ospreys are the Ospreys are brown when seen only hawk in the Americas from above and have mostlythat feed primarily on live fish, white bodies and white on their though rarely they have been wings from below. They have known to eat other animals, such distinctive dark patches on the as birds, snakes, squirrels and undersides of their wings, at their fish carcasses. “wrists” where the wings hinge. They are very well adapted While eagles fly with their to fishing and have the ability to wings fully extended, Ospreys close their nostrils to keep water often bend their wings to form an out. They also have oily plumage “M” shape and flap their wings that keeps them from becoming in a rowing motion. The wingtips waterlogged. They have reversof an Osprey have four “fingers,” ible outer toes that help them large dark feathers that are clearly grab fish with two toes in front visible in flight. and two behind, as well backOspreys have black beaks ward-facing scales on their talons and white-feathered legs, while which function as barbs to hang Bald Eagles have yellow beaks onto slippery fish. and legs. Finally, Ospreys have After catching a fish, the distinctive dark bars on their tails Osprey maneuvers it so that the unlike Bald Eagles. fish’s head is facing forward to A mature Osprey weighs up make it easier to carry in flight. to 4 pounds and stands about 2 The call of an Osprey is a feet tall. Its wingspan can reach
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NATURE OF THE LAKE BY KENNETH BOONE
Information for this article came from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s website, www.allaboutbirds. org; www.surfbirds.com; www.wildnewyork.com and Wikipedia. Note: In an article in The Alexander City Outlook, writer Kenneth Boone prematurely wrote that the July Nature of the Lake feature would focus on the Catawba tree and Catawba worms. Because mature worms did not shown up before presstime, Catawba trees and worms will be featured in a later edition of Lake.
series of whistles, sometimes described as “cheep, cheep” or “yewk, yewk.” If you get too close to a nest, you are likely to hear an agitated call that sounds like “cheereek!” When it comes to fishing, Lake Martin’s best bassers don’t have anything on an Osprey. These birds are reported to catch fish on at least 25 percent of their attempts, sometimes approaching a 70 percent success rate. Even more impressive to human fishermen, Ospreys spend an average of 12 minutes hunting for each fish they catch. Try that with a fishing rod. Ospreys build their nests around bodies of water – any type of water – from rivers and ponds to saltwater marshes and even around coral reefs. On Lake Martin, Ospreys are highly visible during nesting times because their nests are large structures, built primarily of sticks and lined with all sorts of materials that can be easily found around the lake such as grass, bark, vines and items they find floating in the water. The two nests pictured in this article were photographed this year on man-made platforms situated above the lake. One, located near Camp ASCCA, is constructed year-afteryear on a wooden tabletop mounted on a telephone pole and made specifically for Ospreys. The second is built on a shallow-water hazard marker directly in front of The Ridge Marina. Nests are built in an open area with a wide, sturdy base high above the ground, which protects the eggs and young birds from predators like raccoons. Ospreys live 7-10 years in the wild, though some have been known to reach age 25 or older. These birds reach sexual maturity at age 3-4 and typically mate for life. Males perform a “sky-dance” above nesting sites, flying steeply up,
usually carrying a fish or nesting material; then, hovering several hundred feet up with tails fanned wide and talons dangling; then diving sharply while screaming and continuing this undulating flight up and down while gradually descending to the nest. One of the few predators of Ospreys is the Bald Eagle, which has been known to raid nests and kill adult Ospreys; however, more often, instead of attacking the Osprey outright, an eagle will pester it until the Osprey drops its fish. The eagle then makes a meal of the stolen fish instead of the bird itself.
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The osprey often flies with wings in an 'M' position
This bird hits the water talons first to grab a meal
Fun Facts
Ospreys are long-distance migrants, covering huge distances during their lifetimes. One Osprey was tracked flying 2,700 miles in 13 days by scientists, who recorded it flying from Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, to French Guiana in South America. Ospreys have been depicted on more than 50 international postage stamps. The name Osprey is a common brand name for sports teams around the world in sports from football to rugby to baseball, and so is one of its common names, the Seahawks. Ospreys are popular in literature around the world, from Buddhist writings to Shakespeare, the poet William Butler Yeats to the Roman writer Pliny the Elder and in Chinese poetry. Osprey populations crashed from the 1950s to 1970s because of the use of the pesticide DDT, which caused its eggs to break before chicks could hatch. Since the ban on DDT, the species has rebounded strongly.
An osprey soars over the treetops on its way home
Two young birds wait for dinner near Camp ASSCA
The osprey's fingertip wings help to distinguish it from an eagle
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A parent in the pine tree keeps an eye on her nestling during a photo session
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Locations in Tallassee, Wetumpka, and Pike Road 64 LAKE
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THE LAKE IS THE PART OF US THAT
IS ALWAYS YOUNG.
Wild and full of wonder, it’s the place where we are still awed by sunrises and sunsets.
That’s the power of the lake.
P R E S E N T I N G T H E N E W E S T JULY C O L2016 L E C T I O N O F L A K E H O M E S I TLAKE E S 65 RUSSELLLANDSONLAKEMARTIN.COM | 256.215.7011 | LAKE MARTI N, ALABAMA
LAKE MARTIN BUILDING SUPPLY
2695 Dadeville Road
66 LAKE
256.234.5500
Alexander City, AL
JULY 2016
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FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS
FABULOUS FINDS
136 Oaks Point • $929,000 Incredible custom lake home on large point lot with 424 Ft. wf. Near Hwy 280. 4 BR, 4 Bath with four car garage. Solid oak flooring and cabinets, oak panel library, home theather...Call to see today! Great Value! First Realty Call Bill Whatley 256-234-5163 www.lakemartinhomes.net
1627 Moonbranch Drive, Dadeville • $450,000 This like new, one level, 3BR 2BA home is located in the quiet cove of Moonbranch in Blue Creek! It has a large flat deeded lot with 170+/- ft of waterfront with an irrigation system. The living room and kitchen connect with great open spaces and gorgeous views! Perfect for those who spend a lot of time in the kitchen while entertaining company! Through the lakeside door is a full length screened porch with gorgeous sunset views of Lake Martin. Below the screened porch, enjoy the huge lakeside deck just a short walk away from the pier, where you will find the perfect cove to take a swim! Lake Martin Realty Allison Jaye 256.750.0711 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
548 Long Branch Drive, Dadeville • $729,000 This gorgeous 5 Bedroom 3.5 Bath home has 140+/- ft of waterfront and is located in The Harbor community of Lake Martin! Nice flat front yard with concrete driveway that leads to the downstairs 3 CAR GARAGE! Inside this beautiful home you will find hardwood and tile floors, cherry cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and an upstairs and downstairs fireplace! Backyard is sloping with a walkway to the lake. This lot is beautifully landscaped and the pier has a floating dock as well as steps to the water. All of this nestled back in a quiet, peaceful cove with DEEP WATER on Lake Martin! Come see it for yourself! Lake Martin Realty Rhonda Jaye 256.749.8681 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
31 Stone Ridge, Alexander City • $1,100,000 Builder home in the Ridge. The moment you enter this cottage style home you will love it! The open family spaces blend the family, dining and kitchen areas. The 4 bedroom home offers plenty of custom features. Wood walls, high ceilings, large windows, fantastic kitchen, screen porch, spacious garage, flat lot-the list of things you will find irresistible about this property is long! Visit soon! Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
South Ridge Harbor, Brooke Ann RLH Construction just completed this elegant lake home designed by Chuck Frusterio. Owner’s retreat and guest suite are on the main level. Two great rooms, generous lake toy storage, expansive covered deck and terrace and 2-car garage completes this plan. $1,295,000. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Call Emily or Rhonda 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
Willow Glynn, Cove Cottage Ready To Move In! Henderson & Coker just completed this beauty in Willow Glynn. A Mitch Ginn design includes owner’s suite, guest bedroom, bunkroom, and bonus loft room on main level. Expansive open kitchen-dining-living area with access to large covered porch. Lake level offers 2 guest suites, large family room, covered patio and bar for plenty of lake fun. $1,197,000. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Rhonda or Emily 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
South Ridge Harbor, Stone Manor A new gem completed by Newcastle Construction! Architect David Smelcer has artfully blended natural stone and wood to create an eye-catching design offering vaulted ceiling and open floor plan with 2 Master suites on main level. Three additional guest rooms on terrace level, 2 family rooms, lake prep room, and more! $1,465,000 Tour the house, take in the views, and meet the builder. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Emily or Rhonda 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
South Ridge Harbor, Breakwater • $1, 575,000 Under construction from Newcastle Construction & designed By David Smelcer. This 3,825 sq. ft. five bedroom, four and one half bathroom plan has generous open living-dining-kitchen with owner’s suite and guest suite on main level. Lake level offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, rec room, bunk room and lake prep room. Covered porch and lake level patio provide lots of outdoor living space. $1,575,000 Russell Lands On Lake Martin Rhonda or Emily 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
200 Laurel Ridge • $1,225,000 5 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms Ridge on Lake Martin home with all the features-inside & outyou want & need! The home offers open living / kitchen / dining which extends out onto a covered stone deck. Large bedrooms with the Master on main level.The stone deck and patio offer easy access to Lake Martin where you will enjoy the views, waterfall, steps into the lake and large dock system. Enjoy Spring and Summer 2016 on the lake! Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
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FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS
FABULOUS FINDS
219 Ridgeview Point • $895,000 5 Bedrooms | Bathrooms Located in The Ridge for $895,000! Move right in & enjoy this spacious home which offers family rooms on main & terrace levels. Vaulted ceilings, big windows, wood floors, open kitchen & lakeside dining make this home one to see! 5 bedrooms with waterfront views (2 on main), 4 baths, spacious garage, lakeside deck, patio, concrete seawall, pier, are just a few of the features you will love! Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
Lot 3 Willow Glynn • $795,000 360+/- ft. of Waterfront | Impressive lot in Willow Glynn with plenty to offer! The lot has a flat point at the waters edge, plenty of large trees and potential beach area protected from the big water. There are multiple building sites for most any home you dream of having at Lake Martin. Visit soon - there will not be any more like this one! Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
695 North Ridge • $439,000 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | Craftsman style home located in The Ridge. Spacious property - the home offers 4 bedrooms with Master on main level. Living, dining, kitchen open to the front porch or screen porch. Detached garage with bonus space-game room, bath & kitchenette-above. Home has water views & water-access through neighborhood beach club & parks. Great neighborhood amenities that your family is sure to enjoy! Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
35 Canoe Point, Equality • $795,000 New Construction. The Shell Cracker XL is a great terrace level floor plan designed by Mitch Ginn. Home features two bedrooms and baths on both main and terrace levels. Terrace also has game room with summer kitchen. Located in the new development of Cedar Point with large lots and incredible views. This pre-sale package includes the lot, cottage, seawall, and dock. Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
Lot 16 Cedar Point, Equality • $810,000 Proposed new construction. Plans by architect Mitch Ginn. Located in the new development of Cedar Point. Large lots with incredible views. Other plans and lots available. Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
63 Wind Trace, Alexander City • $389,000 Owner MUST SELL! Your money could not buy more...in this 5Br/3.5Ba home located in the upscale neighborhood of Windermere West! Open Fam Rm w/18ft ceilings,FP, hardwood floors, lots of windows open to deck. Eat-in kit w/huge pantry, formal DR w/tray ceiling & crown molding. Master BR on main w/fp & lg bath w/ separate tub & shower. 3BR, 1BA upstairs, 2BR&/or study, 1BA & 2nd family rm downstairs. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com
279 North Holiday Drive, Dadeville • $449,000 UNIQUE HOME with unmatched water views! Only a couple of miles to Chucks Marina. The double hexagonal 4BD/2BA home features an open GR/Kit./Dining w/ cathedral ceilings. Kitchen has abundance of oak cabinets, island, nice pantry and eat-in area. Large, spacious laundry/ utility room. Windows allow natural light and gorgeous lake views. Nice screened porch and covered gazebo/patio on lakeside. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com
763 Winding Road, Unit 1, Dadeville • $269,000 2 BR/2BA in the Indian Paint Brush development located in the heart of lively Blue Creek. New roof and exterior. Open floor plan on ground level with 20+ft ceilings and stately stone fireplace in living area! Wet Bar with ice maker. Soak up resplendent water views from the master balcony. Dock and Covered boat dock w/lift plus 2 jet ski lifts.Boat ramp and community grilling/cabana access. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Lacey Howell 256-307-2443 www.laceyhowell.com
210 Carlisle Road, Alexander City • $185,00 PRIVACY!! You got it in this fully restored home with 3 lg BR's, 2 BA's. Kitchen w/ granite counter tops, new cabinets, dining bar including stools, kitchen island. Enclosed garage with laundry.Would make great entertainment room. Super Large great room with gas FP. Formal Dining and Living Rm. Big Open windows! The Br's are large and all 3 will hold King Size beds. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Lacey Howell 256-307-2443 www.laceyhowell.com
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Rob Witherington
Lake Q&A
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Where are you from originally, and how did you find your way to Lake Martin?
I was born in Denver, the fifth out of six children to wonderful parents. My father was in the Air Force, so we quickly made our way to the Florida panhandle area near Eglin. I grew up playing in the white sands and water but later became a PGA professional who avoids both in each and every round of golf! Out of college, I started my career in Hoover and came to Lake Martin for a job opportunity at Stillwaters.
How long have you been playing golf? When did you decide to make your living at the game?
I grew up playing many sports, but baseball was my focus. At age 14, I was invited out for 18 holes at the Fort Walton Beach Municipal Golf Course, shot a 104 (national average for amateur golf) and fell in love with the game. Golf became my focus, playing for the middle school and high school golf teams. I met a PGA member who explained what he did for a living, and I knew it was my calling. No regrets to this day.
Tell us about your best ever round.
My son was a teenager living with me but never showed an interest in golf. One day, he had a friend who played golf and my son told him that his dad was a professional. His friend asked if we could play together, and my son asked if I would do that. I set it up and this young man proceeded to tell me how he was going to beat me that day on the course. I chuckled and told him that he would see some professional golf, including a prediction of an eagle during the round. I hit a 60-yard shot in the hole for eagle on the ninth hole and preceded to birdie the next six holes in a row. I wanted to impress my son more than I wanted to beat that brash young man. Shot the first 64 of my career that day.
You were the golf pro at Stillwaters 20 years ago and left in 2001. What did you love here so much that you came back last year?
I enjoyed the residents and golf members so much when I was here the first time. I was very proud of the golf course experiences that we were creating daily. I always told people that Stillwaters was special and deserved to work. But the real reason for this return was the new owner. Keith Hiett had a vision and a mission for future success that I thought would work. So I am proud to play my part in that venture, gladly returning.
How is the area the same as when you left and how is it different?
The same “small town” feeling exists as you make your way through life in Dadeville. I have always been comfortable with that lifestyle, not much of a big city guy. The growth with the marina area on site was shocking. This played a big part in the demographics changing from just a senior/retirement community to a younger vacation/ second home residency. Either way, this people-lover is enjoying seeing the older friends and making new ones daily.
A lot of people play golf to relax, but for you it’s work. What do you do to relax?
I have several outlets for relaxation, but I actually relax playing golf. I watch movies from my collection of 500plus; I read; I sit on my patio at sunset with a cigar and a cold drink, phone friends/family, and sometimes I just meditate/pray quietly. I have learned to find that time as the in-season golf business is tremendously busy at times.
What are your responsibilities at Stillwaters?
When I left in 2001, I was the general manager of the entire resort operation. This return is in my original role as director of golf as a PGA member professional, managing all aspects of the golf operation. I have managed to build a great team for golf, and Keith and Don Arthur (restaurant manager) have put together a great support staff for the Copper’s Grill. Together, we team up to create great daily experiences for the members and the public.
What is the signature hole at Stillwaters, and what strategies can you offer for those playing it?
With over 200 feet of elevation change throughout, The Tradition course has so many beautiful holes. The roadside view from the tees on hole number 12 offers such great scenic view and a beautiful hole below. This has to be my choice for the signature hole on the Tradition. Professional tip: Play left of center throughout the entire hole. Tee shot lands and rolls right. Next shot enters green and rolls right. Count on it.
What is the phrase you find yourself repeating over and over in golf lessons?
“Don’t help it up, hurt it down.” Most beginning golfers think they have to lift or scoop under the ball to get it up in the air. It is exactly the opposite. When you hit down on the golf ball, it compresses the grooves on the face and leaves with backspin. The ball going forward with backspin sails upward like a plane taking off a runway. The more you hit down, the more the ball goes up. The driver is the only club that you don’t need to create a divot, as it is teed up for you.
What charities or community service work are important to you and why?
I love children and support charities that focus on their wellbeing. I am a member of the Kiwanis Club, have worked with the Boys & Girls Club in Alexander City, have taught in church and held junior golf clinics to impact young lives. Children hold our nation’s future and are looking for positive mentorship.
If you were going to write a book, what would it be about?
This is on my bucket list, as I will write a book about my life experiences someday. I think everyone of us has a life story to tell. I just feel mine has been filled with many colorful moments that should be shared. It will bring tears of laughter and sadness. If you come for a chat with
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Gabby, pick a subject, and I will tell you a story from my life that is related. Still many chapters to experience, so this will be done in my later years.
(256) 234-6366
(256) 839-6711
If you could have dinner with any three people from any era, who would they be and why?
I have always loved this type of question because people’s answers are always interesting. In my case, they are Jack Nicklaus, Johnny Carson and John Elway. Jack was in his prime when I took up the game of golf. Loved watching him play and enjoy the tremendous golf ambassador that he has become. I grew up with Johnny Carson and just loved his style. I always felt I could do his job, a short monologue, light and playful interviews with many interesting people. I miss him. Elway was a gift from God, as he helped my beloved Denver Broncos improve over the years and become champions. He continues to deliver as he leads the organization from above the field today. Others on my list include Howard Hughes, Bob Hope, Elvis, Bill Murray, Jerry Seinfeld … so many.
(256) 825-9244
(334) 864-8854
What is the most memorable course you’ve ever played?
We touch the lives of the people you love Assisted Living Short Term Rehab Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy Long Term Care 72 LAKE
I can’t get enough of Augusta National. I haven’t played it yet, but I go to the Masters each year to be on the grounds during the event. I did get the opportunity to fly to Pennsylvania and play Oakmont. I remember hitting a shot to the green, missing the putt and watching the ball continue to roll off the lightning-fast surface back into the fairway. I had to run back to my bag to grab my sand wedge for the next shot. Fastest greens I have ever experienced. Shot a 48 on the front nine and made the adjustment to shoot a 38 on the back nine. What an incredible experience.
The rebirth of Stillwaters Golf has a lot of people talking. How are you a part of that regrowth and what’s ahead for Stillwaters?
It starts at the top with the new owner Keith Hiett. He has a vision for a successful golf and restaurant offering that people both inside and outside the gates can enjoy. He is trained and grew up in the turf grass business, so he has already vastly improved the golf course conditions. The Copper’s Grill has been a huge part of our overall success. My part is to promote and drive new business and the return of the old business. We are seeing that happen, and my team is keeping all the promises of quality that I am presenting. If we continue to grow in our current standing, Keith is looking to bring the original George Cobb course back into play within the next two years.
What are your favorite things about living and working at Lake Martin?
The casual lifestyle and the wonderful people appeal to me. The way these people have welcomed me back with open hearts and open doors has been wonderful. I am truly blessed. I prayed for God to send me where I could do the greatest good; he leadeth me beside Stillwaters.
JULY 2016
er v o c s i D your Home
On Lake Martin
5 Eagle Ridge | $2,160,000 5 Bedrooms | 6.5 Bathrooms One-of-a-kind property - Bill Ingram Masterpiece.
90 Whispering Ridge | $1,999,900 8 Bedrooms | 8.5 Bathrooms Beautiful Property with Incredible Views.
109 South Cardinal Heights | $895,000 4 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms Lake Living at it’s BEST
51 Pine Point Circle | $1,390,000 7 Bedrooms | 7.5 Bathrooms Trillium Home with the Whole Package!
410 Water Oak Run | $1,147,000 5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms Private estate appealing to lake and nature lovers alike!
441 Windy Wood | $870,000 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms Excellent setting to enjoy Lake Martin
108 Wind Hollow | $665,000 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms WOW – In Windermere West!
1880 Squaw Ridge | $450,000 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms This Cabin is Ready for Summer 2016!
160 Shady Lane Drive | $449,900 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms Enjoy full-time, part-time or anytime living here!
209 Delilah Lane | $372,000 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms Life is Good on the Lake!
515 Beach Island Trace | $315,000 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms Great waterfront inside beautiful Stillwaters!
183 Lakeview Drive | $289,000 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms Lake and Leisure at Barron’s Bridge!
189 Williams Road | North Lake Condo Club PENDING Unit D-1 $167,000 Walk Out Unit S-3 $209,000 Top Floor
55 Stoney Ridge | $1,325,000 5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms Rare Ridge home situated on large point lot w/ 750+/- Ft. of shoreline!
151 North Darby | $695,000 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms Fabulous Lake Martin waterfront w/ pier, boathhouse & long views.
231 Lakeview Ridge | $635,000 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms Relax on a porch that frames Lake Martin perfectly.
The Haynie Team
Becky Haynie • 334-312-0928 | Howard Haynie • 334-312-0693 Becky@HomeOnLakeMartin.com JULY 2016 www.HomeOnLakeMartin.com
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Daily Help for Good Health A
sume less than 2,300 milligrams of sodium each t the mention of The Dietary Guidelines, day. Small changes or shifts in eating patterns a lot of people will nod off pretty quickly, include making all food and beverages count but these recommendations actually are toward healthier meal patterns and choosing designed to help people enjoy active, healthy more nutrient-dense foods. lives. It is important to remember that small changThe Dietary Guidelines first evolved in 1980 es add up, and don’t forget to accommodate peras a way in which the government could reach sonal taste and cultural preferences to maintain the general public to provide nutritional advice your changes. Supporting healthy choices for for healthy Americans ages two and older. As everyone means that healthy food, beverages and time went on, it was mandated that the U.S. physical activity choices should be available to Department of Human Services (HHS) and the all ages in schools, workplace, community, groU.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) jointly HEALTHY LIVING cery stores and home. review, update and publish the new Dietary BY JULIE HUDSON As these three main points basically sum up Guidelines every five years. Research has demthe new 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines, we can onstrated that dietary intake from birth and diet during pregnancy can have a direct effect on a child’s health; look more closely at the recommended changes. The first area of change is to eat more fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy therefore, in the year 2020, guidelines will be expanded to and healthy oils. address these populations as well. To be successful in meeting this goal, replace high fat The Dietary Guidelines provide food and beverage recsnacks and desserts with vegetables and fruits. Choose more ommendations for healthy Americans. The current recomdark green, red and orange fruit and vegetables by adding mendations are meant to promote health, prevent chronic disease and help those ages two and older reach and maintain them to mixed dishes and including green leafy salads with meals. Choose more nutrient-dense forms of dairy, includhealthy weight. Public health agencies, health care providing lower-sugar fat-free yogurt, 1 percent milk and low-fat ers and educational institutions rely heavily on The Dietary cheese and replace butter and margarine with oils. Guidelines recommendations. The second area of change is to reduce added sugars, The Dietary Guidelines make a huge impact in the United saturated fat, trans fat and sodium. This goal can be met by States because the guidelines form the basis for federal replacing high sugar beverages with water or sugar-free bevnutrition policies and programs. They guide local, state and national initiatives to prevent disease and promote health, and erages. Replace packaged snacks and desserts with whole fruit and vegetables. Choose more nutrient-dense and whole they simply provide information to organizations and indusfoods instead of processed meals or ingredients. Cook with tries. oils instead of butter, margarine or other solid fats. The latest 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans The third area of change is to shift from refined grains to focuses on the total diet and overall healthy eating patterns versus individual food groups and nutrients. This is based on 100 percent whole grain products. Shift to 100 percent whole grain bread and pasta and choose brown rice instead of white the knowledge that nutrients work together. And a long-term rice. Substitute whole grain baked goods for those made with healthy-eating pattern has been proven to reduce the risk of white flour. chronic lifestyle diseases. The fourth area of change is to incorporate more fish, nuts, There are three key points that are addressed to help consumers work toward lifelong patterns of consuming nutrient- seeds, legumes and soy products as protein sources. The last area for change is to restructure physical activity dense foods and beverages while staying within calorie choices. Limit screen time for both adults and kids; set goals needs. The first point is to eat for health and the long run. for daily exercise or physical activity that equals 150 minThe second is to start with small changes or shifts, and the utes each week; participate in physical activity programs and third is to support healthy choices for everyone. remember that small doses of physical activity throughout Eating for health and the long run means to work on eatthe day are very beneficial. ing patterns that include all foods and beverages that can be The Dietary Guidelines for Americans serve the important consumed over long periods of time and also can change and purpose of providing advice to healthy Americans ages two adapt to individual preferences. Healthy eating includes a and older. These guidelines remind us that, although eating large variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein is one of life’s greatest pleasures, diet is very important to and legumes. health at all stages of life. Foods contain energy and nutrients Healthy fats come from nuts, seeds and vegetable oils. that affect health, and physical activity cultivates a healthful Healthy eating diets are low in added sugars, saturated fat diet. and trans fat. The goal is to consume less than 10 percent of calories from these groups. Julie Hudson is a dietician at the Lake Martin Wellness Healthy eating patterns are low in sodium and, more speCenter in Dadeville. cifically, avoid processed foods. The goal should be to conJULY 2016
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Trailing the best year yet
Early numbers indicate 2016 lags slightly behind 2015’s record sales “How’s the market?” If you ask this question to any real estate agent at almost any time in history, there’s a 99 percent chance that you will get back the answer, “Awesome! Totally terrific! It’s a great time to buy or sell or whatever you want to do!” Can the market always be great? Of course not. So that LAKE PROPERTY means that either agents are BY JOHN COLEY lying half the time or they just don’t have a very good handle on what is going on in their particular market. People ask me that question often. For the past several months, I have been saying, truthfully, that the market feels a lot hotter than last year. Astute readers and armchair economists will recall that 2015 was a record year for Lake Martin’s waterfront home sales. When I (and other agents) say it feels hotter, that is to be noted. What do I mean by “hotter?” It feels like there is more pressure on buyers to move fast. Homes are selling more quickly. In the past three weeks, I have had two different homes receive multiple offers, right out of the gate. Even more telling, other agents from the big cities are joining our quaint little Realtor Association here at Lake Martin. I was fairly surprised this month when I totaled up the waterfront home sales and lot sales. I expected to see 2016 racing neck-and-neck with last year and maybe even beating it. Please take a look at this chart for waterfront home sales.
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Through the end of May, there have been 107 waterfront homes sold in 2016. If you compare this to other years, it looks great – except for 2015. We are down about 9 percent from last year. True, our raw total of 107 matches up well historically, but you can’t escape the fact that we are behind 2015.
Similarly, 2016 is trailing 2015 in the waterfront lots sold through the Multiple Listing Service here at Lake Martin. This time, the margin is wider – about 15 percent down. Again, we can’t get too upset because 2016 is still beating some other very fine years of 2013 and 2014. It is not like a few monster months have put this year behind. Instead, it has been a chipping away. The year 2015 has beaten us for four consecutive months. This is a real puzzler to me, as I place great stock in whether the current month has beaten the same month prior year. In my opinion, this statistic is an excellent indicator. Am I just wrong about the market? Are my Spidey Senses dulling with age like my close-up vision? Casting about for more information, I looked at inventory. Sure, we don’t have higher sales, so maybe it’s a case of low inventory. Maybe fewer buyers are scrapping over even fewer waterfront homes for sale. I was disappointed again in the inventory department. While it is true that the raw numbers of homes for sale is down 48 homes (May 2015’s 419 to 371 in May 2016), when compared to months’ inventories, the drop is not very significant. The months’ inventory changed only from 12.31 to 11.59 – not a very
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big drop at all. Simply put, while there was more inventory last year, since homes were selling faster, the inventory was absorbed at about the same rate. Flummoxed, I expanded my search of different real estate sales statistics. I read a recent article by the Alabama Center for Real Estate (ACRE). ACRE is the institution that collects and distributes real estate sales numbers for our fair state. This article pointed out that the average days on market for waterfront homes has dropped in 2016. In April of 2015, waterfront homes on Lake Martin took an average of 218 days to sell. In April of this year, it dropped to 142. That’s a 35 percent drop in one year. Huge! Maybe that is why we agents are feeling the need to hustle when our buyers have fallen in love with a house. The question remains: Where are we really headed in 2016? What sort of market conditions create an environment where fewer homes are sold, yet the time that the homes are
on the market is drastically reduced? In addition, my gut tells me that property values will rise again this year. How does that work when numbers of homes sold are falling? My conclusion for now is that we must be looking at incomplete data. May represents only five months of the year, and here in a second-home market, things don’t really get rolling until March. Let’s settle into the summer and see what happens. By Halloween, we should know for certain. Another conclusion: Relax. Nine percent isn’t that huge a loss when talking about a tad over 100 sales. If this year does end up losing to 2015, it wouldn’t be the end of the world. Remember, 2015 was regarded (by me, at least) as The Greatest Year on Record. There’s no shame in losing to The Greatest. John Coley is a broker and owner of Lake Martin Voice Realty. He is also the author of the blog Lake Martin Voice at LakeMartinVoice.com.
256.215.FISH (3474)
2190 Cherokee Road , Alex City, AL
www.alexcitymarine.com
Certified Outboard Dealer
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W O ! N PEN O
Used Boat Super Center Now Open! Singleton Marine has been serving Lake Martin families since 1988. We’re excited to announce that we’ve opened a dedicated Used Boat Super Center on Highway 49 South in Dadeville. Stop by and see our wide selection of tow boats, pontoons, sport boats, and more. Or, check out our entire New and Used inventory online at SingletonMarine.com. Singleton Marine Used Boat Super Center 5792 Highway 49 South Dadeville, AL 36853 888-606-3535
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New boards stable for tricks T
board that will use up to three fins. esting, testing and more testing. The exciting part about this board For me, that means riding, riding is that it will really perform when and more riding. I guess, technipushed. I have tested it with a few fin cally, that is called research and developsetups, which makes an enormous difment. ference in how it handles on the wave. Last year, I wrote about Victoria Currently, my favorite setup is a Skimboard’s wakesurf line testing grounds dual 1.25-inch fin setup, followed BEHIND THE BOAT being here on Lake Martin. I have been closely by the single 1.25-inch working with the guys at Vic for a handBY SAWYER DAVIS fin. Obviously, there is a ful of years now, and nearly infinite number of their line has grown in the Sawyer Davis completes a setups with fin sizes and past few years with the 360 with a child going from a single fin to enormous growth of the on his shoulders three. I like the twin fin conwakesurf industry. When I figuration for the stability first called Laguna Beach, and ease of use; yet, when I California, and spoke with want to get aggressive and the then team manager, carve, it hooks up. When there was one board, and it I go to spin the board in a was optionally outfitted as 360, it breaks free, and the a carbon fiber board of the rail holds the board on the same shape with different wave face without slipping structural materials. The line out. When I kick it around has grown to include six in a shuv-it, it snaps around shapes now, and the original fin side or even easier when board has been dramatically riding it backward, once changed. I’ve shuvved it and do my I am proud to say that in shuv-out. I can even boost a the current lineup, two of nice amount of air off the lip the boards have come from when I snap it at the top of some concepts we came up the lip. with and tested here on Lake The board is so stable Martin. The Debut hit the that I was able to spin a 360 market in 2015, a full woodwith the child of a friend en board that has become of mine on my shoulders, more of a kids’ board than and she rode tandem on the anything else for a number nose and center along with of reasons. The Captain, me. Unquestionably, this is the easiest tandem board a fish tail multi fin skim style board, was quite a few years in testing before it launched in the 2016 line. That I’ve used. I wouldn’t be surprised a bit if this is one of the 2017 one seems to be more of a bigger rider board. There’s a lot happening now in the world of R&D for additions in the line. The question is: How much will Victoria. I have two prototypes we are testing that have we change it? It can always be improved, and that’s why there a ton of potential to be the next new board in the line with a very different concept than its predecessors, with is another board – this one with some nips and tucks – now on the table and about to be mailed to Lake some serious surf style influences. This is a big board, really big! It’s made to be ridden Martin. We shall see what Tex Haines and the guys at Victoria can come up with for us to play with! Er, uh, I by someone who wants to cruise and carve with lots of stability. When this board is ridden by a little bit lighter mean, conduct research and development testing on, of course. of a rider, it catches a little push from the very back of the wave with ease. Its body does have a pintail, Sawyer Davis is a wakesurfer for Victoria and it’s an inch thick of mid-density foam core right Skimboards and grew up on Lake Martin. now. I would generally describe it as a skim style long JULY 2016
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Dangerous Chemicals
Lake Watch guards against potential contaminents at Lake Martin
T
Gadsden Water Works and Sewer Board; here’s been a bit of a buzz around the lake Rainbow City Utilities Board; Southside Water since the Alabama Department of Public Works and Sewer Board; West Morgan-East Health (ADPH) released a notice entitled Lawrence Water Authority; Centre Water and Health Department responds to EPA Health Sewer Board; V.A.W. (Vinemont Anon West Advisory impacting north Alabama water sysPoint) Water Systems Inc.; West Lawrence Water tems. The release provided information on PFOS Co-op; and Northeast Alabama Water District. and PFOA in drinking water. It sounded pretty According to the ADPH news release, these scary. are the only PFOS/PFOA ‘hot spots’ currently PFOS and PFOA have nothing to do with identified in Alabama. Since there are no major personal floatation; the acronyms stand for permanufacturing facilities of this type in the fluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooacTallapoosa River Basin, the Tallapoosa lakes – tanoic acid (PFOA), respectively. According LAKE WATCH Harris, Martin, Yates and Thurlow – should have to the ADPH, these compounds are man-made BY ERIC REUTEBUCH no worries related to these chemical pollutants. chemicals that resist heat, oil, stains, grease and It is a blessing that our treasured lake waterwater and are found in a variety of products, such shed mostly includes forestland with a sprinkle of agriculture as nonstick cookware, carpet protection products, firefighting and relatively small towns. A healthy and relatively undevelfoams and waterproof clothing. Although their production oped watershed equates to excellent water quality. was phased out in the U.S. by 2002, they persist in the enviDesignation of Lake Martin as Alabama’s first, and only, ronment. Treasured Alabama Lake (TAL) in 2011 provides added PFOS and PFOA in drinking water are usually from facilities that manufacture these compounds or from industries that protections against future industrial development and the dumping of nasty chemicals and other pollutants. The TAL used them in their manufacturing processes. designation carries stringent requirements and restrictions on The Environmental Protection Agency established a health discharges into the lake. In effect, TAL ‘raises the bar’ and advisory of a maximum 70 parts per trillion for the combined ensures high water quality for generations to come – a benefit concentration of PFOS and PFOA in May 2016 (Drinking not lost on local real estate agents and economic development Water Health Advisories for PFOA and PFOS, see www.epa. agencies. gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/drinking-water-healthAnd if you want to thank someone for getting that TAL advisories-pfoa-and-pfos). designation for Lake Martin, give Dick Bronson a big pat This health advisory is based on scientific studies and was developed to protect sensitive populations – pregnant women, on the back. After a decade of working with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, the past president breast-fed infants and formula-fed infants whose formula is and founder of Lake Watch of Lake Martin almost singleprepared with tap water. The health effects of exposure in handedly made it happen. the general population are not totally clear at this time, but One other highly significant source of protection for our according to the EPA, exposure may result in adverse health treasured lake came from the 2011 Outstanding Alabama effects that could include the following: Water (OAW) classification of the upper Tallapoosa River developmental effects to fetuses during pregnancy or above Lake Wedowee. This is a big deal for that section of the to breastfed infants, including low birth weight, accelerated river and downstream waters, as OAW, like TAL, ‘raises the puberty and skeletal variations; bar’ relative to water quality standards. It also provides pro testicular and kidney cancer; tections against pollution and degradation of the river and our tissue damage in the liver; treasured lake. antibody production and immunity effects; Lastly, to insure that Lake Martin continues to maintain thyroid effects; and excellent water quality, a troupe of dedicated volunteers from other effects, including cholesterol changes. Lake Watch of Lake Martin regularly conducts chemical and The areas of concern with regard to PFOS and PFOA in bacteriological (E. coli) monitoring throughout the lake, as Alabama have been identified in two river basins: 1) downwell as monitoring with their eyes and noses. stream of carpet mills in Dalton, Georgia, in the Coosa River Please consider joining the Lake Watch ranks. We’re Basin, and 2) below the 3M manufacturing facility in Decatur, always in need of new volunteers, and we’ll train you to do Alabama, in the Tennessee River Basin. Eight potable water systems in north Alabama are impacted your part in preserving and protecting our treasured lake for generations to come. Visit www.lakewatch.org to come on by the wastewater outfalls from these two manufacturing board. facilities. Tests at the eight water systems have shown concentrations of PFOS and PFOA to be above the EPA’s newlyEric Reutebuch is president of Lake Watch Lake Martin. released health advisory level. Learn more at www.lakewatch.org. The eight water systems in the two river basins include 80 LAKE
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Serving gourmet Southern cuisine with a side of Beale Street ambience, Itta Bena is bringing food back to its savory roots. Located inside Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Montgomery, you can enjoy flavorful favorites like jumbo lump crab cakes and Prime steaks, plus whatever piques your interest from our extensive fine wine list and delicious dessert menu. If you’re looking for a good evening, make a date with Itta Bena. Call (866) WIND-360 for reservations.
F I N D YO UR W IN N I N G M O M E N T. 1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd., Montgomery, AL WindCreekMontgomery.com
Š 2016 Wind Creek Hospitality.
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Practice! It’s your best opportunity for improvement
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ally did – that practice is the best opportunity ust recently our 4-year-old son, Gaige, to improve at whatever it is he tries to do. wrapped up his first season of T-ball. It’s Sometimes, I point out to him athletes, singhard to believe that kids start at just 4 years ers and even professionals like builders and old now. I don’t think I started T-ball until I tell him that they are very good at what they was about 6 years old, but that was a long time do because they practiced. Right now, he’s all ago. I wondered how well it would go. about American Ninja Warrior, so I used that as I tried not to be a parent who takes it too an example, too. seriously with the little ones on the field. I had In every sport I ever played, the amount of to remind myself that they needed to have fun. time spent practicing was a lot more than the But, they also were learning important lessons amount of time spent playing an actual game. – like how to be part of a team; taking turns; Repetition was important and provided situand getting better with practice. BIG CATCHES ational training. When they were able to do something they BY GREG VINSON Oftentimes, I find myself describing to might have previously struggled with, such as someone what I do now as a professional hitting the ball off the tee, I could see their eyes light up. They were having fun, and they also seemed to get angler. The first perception most people have when I tell more motivated. Keep in mind that I’m talking about 4 year them I fish bass tournaments is that it’s an easy gig. Maybe like a weekend golf outing with buddies. olds. Tournament bass angling is, in fact, a very competitive Gaige is like a lot of kids in that he doesn’t get real excitand stressful career. To be successful at it takes a lot of hard ed about practice. I can’t say I ever got very excited about it myself. I still don’t, but I hope he realizes – like I eventu- work. Just like other sports, a professional angler practices. 82 LAKE
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Practice in fishing is different than other sports, of course, but the basics still apply. In practice, it’s important to develop a game plan for the fishery and the conditions found on tournament day. Just as in football games, baseball games or any other sport, an angler tries to expect the unexpected. There will be times when an angler must be prepared to adjust. There are many variables at play in fishing, and the time on the water is mental preparation for making the right adjustments when things change. Even if you are not participating in tournaments, you are most likely still driven to catch more fish or bigger fish than the last time you went out. It’s one of the main things that keeps us interested and coming back to the lake again and again. I don’t know many people that would walk out onto a baseball field or softball field and say, “I don’t really care if I catch the ball or hit the ball today.” In bigger events, professional anglers only get two and a half days to practice before the competition. That may sound like plenty, but a week wouldn’t really be enough most of the time. Even when I spend 12-plus hours each day, the time flies by. I’m always looking to be efficient with my practice. The quicker I can put together an area, bait or – better yet a pattern – the better my chances of putting together a successful game plan. The most important elements in fishing are finding fish and then learning the best way to catch those fish. There are many variables that determine where the best fish might be located, such as time of year, weather, cover (habitat) and water conditions. Many more variables influence what methods can be used to catch the fish. To put it simply, an angler is looking for the best baits/presentations and the best areas. When those two factors are perfectly combined, it’s a very successful day. Sometimes, an angler will be in a very good area and only catch a small sample of what’s really there if the best bait and presentation aren’t used. Or, the
perfect bait and presentation only catch a few because of a poor area. Again, the key is to combine the best of both area and bait/presentation. Practice is usually the best chance to gather the clues to putting together a good game plan. Sometimes, this is as simple as tinkering with the electronics to get the best possible picture of fish and cover beneath the water. Constant experimentation with baits and colors help to crack the code to the best fishing as well. At the same time, anglers experiment with various areas to see if there’s some consistency that will help them predict where to focus most of their efforts. The best clues are in the form of bites. Each time I get a bite in practice, it’s an opportunity to check off some variables in my mental checklist. The more bites I can get that have similarities, the better I’ll be at predicting the next good cast, location, bait or presentation. The idea is to establish a pattern. A good pattern helps you stay highly productive, even though you may be fishing areas you haven’t even tried yet. You simply go there based on your pattern and throw the baits that fall into the pattern as well. We’ve all heard the saying “practice makes perfect,” and that’s true to some degree, even in fishing. One of the biggest mistakes I’ve made was expecting the pattern to remain exactly the same from practice through the tournament. It’s not uncommon, especially during the spring or fall, to have conditions change rapidly from one day to the next. When that happens, it’s important to make the right predictions of the fishes’ behavior. When I don’t, I find myself scratching my head on game day. In 2012, I almost won the biggest tournament in bass fishing, The Bassmaster Classic, because I took a few bites from practice and made a good educated guess about what might happen over the following three days (tournament days). At this past year’s Bassmaster Classic, I started off in second place and thought I might be making a run at it again. Unfortunately, a very solid pattern from practice changed, and I wasn’t able to make the right adjustments on days two and three. I failed to predict correctly and fell out of contention. On both occasions, I got helpful clues from practice. But it was still important that I used those clues to make the correct predictions for game day. It’s discouraging to come up short of a goal, but it’s best to take that as a learning experience that may apply in a similar situation down the road. My hope is that those entire events were practice that will help me make the right decisions when the next big opportunity presents itself. I still believe strongly in the cliché that practice makes perfect, but I also have my own motto now: Practice is practice. In other words, I don’t make all my decisions in the tournament strictly on the basis of what worked in practice. I need to be willing to adapt to the changes that take place. When you do so, you’ll find that practice over time has developed an even stronger element, known as instincts. It’s when you’re making instinctual moves that you find everything clicks. Greg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on the Bassmaster Elite Series and PAA tours. He lives in Wetumpka and grew up fishing on Lake Martin.
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Green Tomato Salsa A fresh and flavorful snack for afternoons at the lake Ingredients
4 green tomatoes 1 head of garlic, separated and cleaned 2 poblano peppers Juice from 8 limes 1 bunch cilantro
Directions
Blanch cilantro in boiling water for 10 seconds; then shock in ice water. Form into a ball and squeeze water out. Over a medium coal fire, roast green tomatoes whole; this should take about 30 minutes. The tomatoes should be slightly soft with some char on the outside but not burnt. Roast the poblano in the same way; however, they should have heavy char on the outside. Once the peppers are charred, place in a plastic bag to steam while the tomatoes finish. After steaming for 10-15 minutes, peel char away and remove seeds and stems. Place garlic, cilantro, tomatoes and peppers in a blender with lime juice. Blend on high until everything is well blended; season with salt and pepper to desired taste.
CHEF’S TABLE
BY ROB MCDANIEL
86 LAKE
Rob McDaniel, executive chef and general manager at SpringHouse Restaurant, earned a bachelor's degree in restaurant and hotel management from Auburn University and is a graduate of the New England Culinary Institute.
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By the glass or by I
t is doubtful that any of us remembers when contains just more than six and a half servings amphorae were used for the transportation and at 5 ounces each. The 500ml size is just enough storage of wine. It has only been thousands of for slightly more than three servings. Goldilocks years. The technology that produced the ceramic would be so happy. containers is prehistoric, dating back to the The wine is significantly different from what Neolithic Period, around 11,000 B.C.E., near the we may have encountered in the past, and sudend of the Stone Age. Over time, larger amphorae denly, everyone seems to be getting in on the (five feet high) were used to ship, literally by boat, act. I was pleasantly surprised to see a favorite both dry goods and liquids, mostly wine. Smaller Pinot Grigio, The Birdman from Big House Wine amphorae and 18-inch tall tabletop amphorae, Co., ranked in the top five best box wines by often finely decorated, would have been conveone reviewer. Other popular brands that are now niently placed on or near the food table, where available in boxes include Bogle, Rex Goliath, they could be seen and admired. By 700 C.E., Pepperwood Grove and Two Buck Chuck. Now FROM THE CELLAR really, with all the fawning over a bottle of Two wooden and skin containers had become the new BY HENRY FOY technologies. Buck Chuck, it must make a pretty fine box wine. Glass bottles that had previously been too In addition to better brand selection, I am also fragile for storing and shipping wine finally got a foothold in impressed to find varietals that I would never have expected. the 17th century. Note that many of the glass bottles produced We are no longer limited to a generic Burgundy, White since that time are still with us. Because glass is not biodegrad- Zinfandel or Blush. The new list includes Barbera Sangiovese; able and doesn’t break down, their environmental impact is sig- La Petit Frog packages a Picpoul de Pinet, Black Box has nificant; however, this article isn’t about our failure to embrace a Shiraz and Riesling in addition to a popular Merlot. Others recycling. It is about environmentally friendly, innovative wine varieties include Malbec, Gruner Veltliner, a true Bourgogne packaging that is showing great promise from many angles. Blanc and Burgundy, Bordeaux and Cotes du Rhone. Technology that could replace the traditional glass wine botOne brand that I am especially anxious to try is Bandit, made tle is nothing new. Well, in comparison to how long the glass by Three Thieves Wines. Three Thieves is a partnership of piowine bottle has been in use; it is as new as the late 20th century. neering winemakers who have not only bucked trends but also Let’s face it; things change with dizzying speed. Remember raised the bar for California vintners. The three are Joel Gott, how hard it was to accept screw caps; who would have thought a fifth-generation winemaker and head of Joel Gott Wines; I would ever have anything nice to say about box wines? Charles Bieler, half of the very popular Charles and Charles Yes, it’s true. I’m swallowing my pride. I’ve seen the light, Rose and creator of the equally admired Bieler Coteaux d’Aix and on second glance, the potential for box wines to satisfy en Provence Rose; and Roger Scommegna, a tenacious entremany needs is actually pretty exciting. The stigma of wine in preneur and the force behind Realtor.com. a box will be difficult to overcome on a large scale, but maybe Emporium Wine has the Three Thieves Pinot Noir (glass this article will nudge us forward. bottle) at $10.99, and it is a new favorite. By the time The reactions most people have to boxed wines are based on this issue hits the street, we’ll have the Bandit wines three-liter boxes that are associated with cheap, mass-produced, chilled and ready for the Fourth and Sun Festival. inferior quality brands and varietals. You’ve seen them on the Who knows where this alternative packaglower shelves in the grocery stores and maybe in your neighing will take the wine industry. And it’s bor’s refrigerator. Maybe even your own. So let’s first be honnot just boxes; several producers, like est: There is a market for these products, and the appeal of hav- Underwood, are using single serving ing wine on tap that has a good shelf life with very little fuss cans of 375ml. (about 12 ounces or is hard to dispute. To be brutally honest, there is a reason why two and a half wine servings). The Yellow Tail, Barefoot and Franzia are the top selling brands in smaller sizes are ideal for picnics the United States. Price is a huge factor, and for most consumin the park, boat rides or hikes ers, the wines some of us may call ‘awful’ are, by a different through the woods. And no glass. standard, ‘approachable,’ praiseworthy and desirable. There should be no shame in that. Drink what you like. Henry Foy is the owner of If you look around, you will see a lot of inexpensive bottled Emporium Wine, Café 128, Gallery wine being consumed. Apparently, we have more issues with 128 and Lake Martin’s only walkthe packaging than what’s in the box. For certain occasions, a in cigar humidor located in down3-liter box of wine is just right. The game-changer is that we’re town Alexander City at 128 Calhoun no longer limited to big 3-liter containers. Boxes are now avail- Street. He can be reached at 256.212. able in multiple sizes. Where the 3-liter is equivalent to four WINE, on Instagram, Facebook and at empo750 ml bottles, the 1.5-liter box is half that, and the 1-liter size rium128@bellsouth.net.
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the box?
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Proper Balance
Pro Tips From Lee Williams Great golfers have a few things in common, and one is great balance, which starts at address. Too many golfers have bad setups due to where the weight is distributed in their feet. First of all, on a standard shot, your weight should be 50/50 on your left foot and right foot (except with a driver when it’s ok to have a little more weight on the back foot). Next, your weight should be centered in the balls of your feet. Having your weight in the balls of your feet is the most important part of balance in the swing. This helps to keep your weight in the center of your feet throughout the swing. If you have too much weight on your toes at address, you will have to make some type of manipulation in your swing to account for it. The same is true for too much weight in your heels at address. Sam Snead is famous for a lot of things in golf, especially the beautiful rhythm he displayed in swinging the club. He used to hit balls barefoot all the time. The purpose of hitting balls without shoes was to help him with his balance, which transferred into that smooth swing that we all love to watch. Setup is where the swing begins, and balance is the base for the setup. If your weight distribution is correct at the start, your chances of hitting good shots will increase significantly. Good Luck!
Play Faster
Other golfers are waiting With summer in full swing, speed of play matters. And while good etiquette demands that a slower foursome allow faster golfers to play through, the better solution is to pick up the pace. Here are some tips local golfers offered to make better experiences for everyone on the course. Limit the score on any hole to double bogey, said Roger. In addition to speeding up play, this recommendation saves face and avoids the downward mental spiral of the dreaded threeputt. If the course is busy and the score isn’t as important as having fun, suggested Angie and Milt, play the best ball. All players could hit from the tee of their choices, and after that, play would continue from the best lie until all players were on the green. This way, everyone gets to play but the game moves along at a faster clip. On busy days, don’t play with your favorite ball. If you hit an errant shot into the woods, you might be inclined to spend more minutes looking for a souvenir Callaway than you would, say, a Titleist you fished out of the lake during your last game. Lakewinds golf pro Jim Gunnells said playing it forward offers the dual benefit of lowering scores as it speeds play. “When you play it forward, you tee up one tee shorter than you would normally play,” he explained. “That shortens your distance to the hole and lowers your score.” And when you hit to the green, he added, be sure to take your putter, as well as your wedge, so you don’t have to go back to the cart for another club. And save the banter with your buddies for the clubhouse. When you’re in the fairway, focus on playing quickly and courteously.
Lee Williams, a professional golfer on the PGA Tour, grew up playing at Willow Point Country Club. As an amateur, Williams was a member of the 2003 and 2005 Walker Cup teams, as well as the 2004 World Amateur Team. He is sponsored by Russell Lands, King Honda, Nowlin and Associates, P.F. Chang's, Tempus Jet, Hyatt, Adams Golf, Russell Athletic, Titleist, Ameritas Financial Corp. and Southwest Airlines. JULY 2016
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Legend
63
21
22
280
23
To Sylacauga
20
Public Boat Ramps
Alexander City
16
Churches 9
Camp ASCCA
Flint Hill Church
Camps & Parks 280
Power lines U.S. Highways
3
22
County Roads
Piney Woods Landing
Wind Creek State Park
Pleasant Grove Church
11
COOSA COUNTY
Alex City Boat Ramp
Mt. Zion Church
259 9
128
Russell Farms Baptist Church 63
D.A.R.E. Park Landing
Friendship Church
11
New Hope Church
Liberty Church 14
20
Willow Point
24
34
5
7
Equality
Kowaliga Boat Landing
55
4
Seman
Camp Kiwanis
63 Camp Alamisco
8 19 The Ridge
1 9
Church in The Pines
22
2
The Amp Ko
wa
15 10
lig
aB
ay
80
9
Central
90
Union
ELMORE COUNTY Union Church
Red Hill 63
229
Eclectic
Tallassee
17 Kent
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Union Landing
Children’s Harbor
Trillium
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Timbergut Landing
Lake Martin Alabama
Horseshoe Bend National Park
Jaybird Landing
Marinas 11. Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
TALLAPOOSA COUNTY
22. The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300 450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 33. River North Marina 256-397-1500 250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
49
42. Real Island Marina 334-857-2741 270 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026
Jacksons Gap
53. Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550 8300 Parker Creek Marina Rd, Equality, AL 36026
280
62. Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Highway 49 South, Dadeville, AL 36853 Bethel Church
18
Dadeville
280
Camp Hill
86. Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070 17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
57
Smith Landing
9 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
Pleasant Ridge Church
10 Harbor Docks Restaurant at Anchor Bay Marina 334-639-4723 2001 Cataway Island Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024
12 13
Business & Shopping
Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters
Restaurants 76. SpringHouse 256-215-7080 12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
11 Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075 970 Hwy. 63 South, Alex City, AL 35010
Stillwaters
12 Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd 34, Dadeville, AL 36853
6
14 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt @ Smith's Marina 256-444-8793 1590 Pine Point Road, Alex City, AL 35010 5. Lake Martin Mini Mall 15 334.857.3900 7995 Kowaliga Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 16 256-234-2567 1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 17 334-541-2132 1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Building Supply 18 256-825-4256 350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 19 256-794-1333 111 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 4. Dark Insurance 20 256-234-5026 410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 21. McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583 1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010 22. Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024
Hotels & Lodging
23 2 Cherokee Bend Bed & Breakfast 877-760-7854 5833 Highway 22 East, Alex City 35010
Advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map for as little as $25. Contact us at 256-234-4281 or marketing@alexcityoutlook.com for more information.
13 EastLake Coffee @ Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd 34, Dadeville, AL 36853
Walnut Hill 50 50
49
Reeltown
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Lake Magazine Distribution ALEXANDER CITY Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Q Campus of CACC Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart Emporium Wine Grace’s Flowers Hampton Inn Holley’s Home Furnishings Hometown Pharmacy Jackson Drugs Jake’s
JR’s Sports Bar & Grill Koon’s Korner Koon’s Korner II Lake Martin Building Supply Lakewinds Golf Club Larry’s General Store Little Black Dress Longleaf Antiques Mark King's Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc The Medicine Shoppe
The Sure Shot USAmeribank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon
DADEVILLE American Motorsports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foodland Foshee's Boat Doc Homeplate Restaurant Harbor Pointe Marina Lakay’s Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Community Hospital Lakeshore Discount Pharmacy Lakeside Marina
Niffer's At The Lake Oskar's Cafe Payne Furniture Pearson’s Place Poplar Dawgs Public Library Pug's Place PNC Bank Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 USAmeribank
EQUALITY
ECLECTIC
WALNUT HILL
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 Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star
KELLYTON
Five Star Plantation
RED HILL Citgo
TALLASSEE Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce The Tallassee Tribune Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery
WETUMPKA
The Wetumpka Herald A limited number of magazines are available at these locations. To start your subscription, call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281.
Lake Martin Business and Service Directory
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
dB
Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner • Mowing • Edging • Weed Eating • Shrubs • Pressure Washing • Blowing
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
COACH KRAFT
256.267.0518
residential. commercial. interior. exterior.
UPHOLSTERY Complete Marine Upholstery! ■
■ Floors ■ Carpets Bimini Tops ■ Custom Seats ■ Mooring Covers
Patrick Mason 334-283-6759
334-651-0033AL/706-225-8070 GA
columbus-auburn.certapro.com
676 Dean Circle • Tallassee, AL www.coachkraft.com
94 LAKE
Handrails • Guardrails Welded Fence • Custom Art Stairs • Gates Stainless Steel Cable Railing I-Beams • Steel Posts • Stairs On-Site Welding/Cutting
1550OpelikaRoadSuite6Box294,Auburn,AL36830
334-332-3435 Since 2008
JULY 2016
Lake Martin Business and Service Directory
H
OLMAN
“WE’RE
F
LOOR
C
OMPANY
THE PROFESSIONALS”
Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Carpet & Vinyl Visit our showroom for samples and a free estimate! Locally Owned for Over 45 Years
256-234-6071
1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City
Professional! Trey Callegan Area Manager Call TODAY for quick Pre-approval!
A Division of Goldwater Bank, N.A.
248 Inverness Ctr Dr, Birmingham AL
205-995-7283
Call TODAY for quick Pre-approval NMLS #47862 Corporate NMLS #452955
Performance! Call me for your FREE home sellers kit.
Paige Patterson
205-616-8046
LAKE
www.paigepatterson.com
Relax. Enjoy. Lake Martin. Call to order your subscription 256-234-4281
MAGAZINE
JULY 2016
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Our Advertisers n To Join, Call 256.234.4281 A&M Plumbing....................................................... 77 Advanced Cardiovascular.................................... 74 Advanced Heating & Air........................................ 8 Alex City Guide Service...................................... 66 Alex City Marine................................................... 77 Alex City Taxi & Shuttle...................................... 95 Amanda Scroggins, RE/MAX Around the Lake.........23 Anytime Fitness.................................................................. 3 Atkinson Home..................................................... 95 Becky Haynie, Lake Martin Realty..................... 73 Blue Creek Iron Works....................................... 94 Bone & Joint Specialists, P.C................................ 46 Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation....................... 66 Buck's Dairy Quick............................................... 37 C&T Electric.......................................................... 74 Central Alabama Community College.............85 CertaPro Painters................................................. 94 Chuck's Marina...................................................... 84 City of Wetumpka................................................. 22 Coach Kraft Upholstery...................................... 94 Crew Lending......................................................... 95 Custom Docks....................................................... 41 Damon Story, Cedar Point................................. 58 DAVCO Development......................................... 95 DB Lawn Care....................................................... 94 Designs by Trish....................................................... 5 Docks Unlimited..................................................... 5 First Baptist Church Alexander City.................. 8 First Realty............................................................... 6
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George Hardy D.M.D............................................. 8 Harbor Pointe Marina.......................................... 67 Henderson and Coker......................................... 96 Hilltop Landscaping............................................... 84 Hinson Galleries.................................................... 23 Holley’s Home Furnishings...............................100 Holman Floor......................................................... 95 Jackson Thornton.................................................. 12 James & Co............................................................. 74 Kona Ice.................................................................. 26 Kowaliga Whole Health....................................... 94 Lacey Howell, RE/MAX Around the Lake.......37 Lake Martin Building Supply............................... 66 Lake Martin Community Hospital..................... 19 Lake Martin Dock................................................. 21 Lake Martin Mini Mall.......................................... 15 Lake Martin Resource Association................... 30 Lakeside Marina..................................................... 12 Mark King's Furniture.......................................... 36 Mitchell's Upholstery........................................... 66 Movie Rack............................................................. 37 Music Depot........................................................... 95 National Village...................................................... 40 OB-GYN Associates of Montgomery.............. 26 Paige Patterson, Lake Martin Voice Realty......95 Painting By Allen.................................................... 95 Playhouse Cinemas............................................... 37 Prime Management............................................... 72 PrimeSouth Bank................................................... 64
JULY 2016
Rambo Marine....................................................... 41 Renaissance Electronics......................................... 8 Russell Lands............................................. 50-51, 65 Russell Marine........................................................ 97 Russell Medical Center.......................................... 2 Saint James Episcopal Church............................ 77 Satterfield.................................................................. 6 Security Pest Control............................................ 8 Seibel's..................................................................... 47 Shorelock Storage Solutions.............................. 95 Singleton Marine.................................................... 78 SportzBlitz.............................................................. 90 State Farm Insurance/ Harold Cochran..........94 State Farm Insurance/ Karen Channell..........95 Tallassee Community Hospital........................... 74 Temple Medical Center......................................... 8 TNT Stone............................................................. 77 TowBoatU.S.............................................................. 5 Troy Cable................................................................. 6 Vision Landscapes Inc.......................................... 16 Walmart.................................................................. 94 Ware Jewelers....................................................... 99 Wedowee Marine................................................. 27 Who's Diner.......................................................... 37 Wind Creek Casino............................................. 81 Williams Plumbing Heating & Air........................ 8 WSC Distinctive Builders, LLC......................... 59
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Parting Shot
The summer moon rises over Lake Martin.
Photo by Kenneth Boone
"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order." ~ John Borroughs
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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
JULY 2016
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Unbeatable Selection! Unbelievable Prices!
The iconic and timeless Stearns & Foster mattress now available at Holley’s Home Furnishings. Since 1846 Stearns and Foster has been hand crafting with the very best materials available.
5 YEARS NO INTEREST * Financing Available
*See store for complete details. Minimum purchase required. Now - July 10th Only.
100 LAKE
256.234.4141 Alexander City
JULY 2016
334.279.3101 Montgomery