August/September 2011 • www.LakeWedoweeLife.net •
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August/September 2011 Vol. 4 No. 4
Special Features 10. News to Know: Living the Lake Wedowee Life Model Search 12. Flat Rock: A Day at Lake Wedowee’s Rock Beach 14. Small Town Life: Lake Wedowee Means to Us 16. News to Know: Family Fun Day at French Hammond Park 19. News to Know: Local Collection on Display at Regional Museum 22. American Spirit: Boat Parade Draws Crowds, Creativity 32. Hot Dog: Tips to keep your pet safe on Lake Wedowee 50. Reader’s Photos: Enjoying Fun in the Summer
In Every Issue 8. Enjoy Life! - Letter from the Editor 9. Lake Wedowee At a Glance 30. Lake Map 34. Creative Crafting 36. Simply Fabulous 40. Charley’s Treasures 43. Hooked on Lake Wedowee 49. Southern Living House Plan 53. Chamber Chatter 54. Where in the World? 58. Built on the Lake
General Manager LEISEL CALDWELL info@lakewedoweelife.com
Editor KELLY CALDWELL news@lakewedoweelife.com (256) 276-7959
Writer AMANDA CAUSEY leighcausey@hotmail.com
On the Cover Fourth of July is a great experience for participants and spectators. Join us again next year!
contributing writers Darlene Bailey Max Fulbright Erica Huddleston Reed Montgomery Charley Norton Dorothy Tidwell
Advertising Sales LAVOY CALDWELL ads@lakewedoweelife.com (334) 863-0737
Lake Wedowee Life 877.959.LAKE (5253) 18285 Highway 431 Wedowee, AL
www.LakeWedoweeLife.net Lake Wedowee Life magazine is published six times a year and available around the Lake Wedowee area which includes Randolph and Clay Counties in Alabama as well as parts of West Georgia. Paid mail subscriptions are available for $18 a year. All content in this publication is protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, or otherwise published without the prior written permission of Neighborhood Publishing. Š 2008 Neighborhood Publishing
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Lake Wedowee is the Place for Me on 4th of July I have always said Halloween is my favorite non-religious holiday, but I have to say Fourth of July is gaining ground at a lightening pace. Fourth of July on Lake Wedowee is something to experience! Considering the size of our town, it amazes me how much there is to do during that holiday period. We had the rodeo, two street dances and numerous firework displays (some planned and promoted, some by word of mouth). However, the best display of American Pride (in my opinion of course) came on Fourth of July during our 3rd Annual Lake Wedowee Patriotic Boat Parade. This year we saw 28 entries decorated in their season’s best and let me tell you, the boats did not disappoint. The creativity was so extraordinary, we launched a People’s Choice Award through our facebook.com fan page. Let’s just say that people took that voting seriously! We had accusations of it being rigged and I know of at least one fake profile created during the voting period… (Regina Falangi...Come on… Really?) We had 357 votes cast for the finalists which were Fantastic Fourth, Gilligan’s Island and Mickey Mouse. In the end the Judges and the People agreed and named the Fantastic Fourth not only the Pride of Wedowee, but also the first ever People’s Choice Winner. And their message was quite simple, “Our Soldiers are the Real Super Heroes!” Thank you to all the people involved in making the boat parade a success and to see all the boats from the parade see pages 22-29 of this issue!
Enjoy Life! Kelly Caldwell
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If you go online and search Flat Rock Park, you won’t get too many results. It’s no secret that Flat Rock sees many visitors though. On any pretty summer day the park is bursting with activity. “We had 813 visitors on Fourth of July weekend.” Park attendant John Powell said. He and Bob Wood were keeping their eye on things the day I stopped by to speak to park visitors. Since May of this year the park has seen 22,265 visitors. “About 40 percent of our people are from Georgia. You’d be amazed of how many people come from that area.”, Wood
News to Know Story by Amanda Causey said. As he spoke those words a
Cousins Dakota & Brittney have fun playing in the waters around Flat Rock. 12 Lake Wedowee Life
vehicle from Heard County, Georgia passed through the gates. Flat Rock Park is part of the Piedmont Plateau region located in the eastern United States between the Atlantic Coastal Plain and the main Appalachian Mountains, stretching from New Jersey to central Alabama. On the day of my visit it was overcast and the chance of rain was looming in the air. That did not stop visitors from piling in. “We come about an hour early so we can get a good spot.” Daniel Smith, of Anniston, said. “The people here are always nice and everyone keeps to themselves here. You don’t have to worry about your kids here, you can relax and enjoy.” This is the Smith Family’s second visit to the park. “Flat Rock Park is a lot nicer than some of the parks closer to our house. It’s very clean." said Daniel’s wife Amber. “It’s also easier for disabled
people to come and enjoy. They can drive their cars right down and it’s easy to get in and out of the water. That’s another reason we like coming here.” Brittany Green enjoys bringing her small children to Flat Rock. “It’s a great place to come and have a birthday party for your
This graphic shows the Piedmont Plateau region.
children, or to come and grill hotdogs and hamburgers.” Green said. “We came out on Memorial Day to let the kids swim. We were out boating and pulled up so they could have a shallow area to stand.” Flat Rock is a day-use park with Brittany Green & Family splash around at Flat Rock swimming, picon Memorial Day Weekend. nicking, fishing, and nature trail. It is open open May-September 9 noon with the family on Lake Weam-8 pm. The park is located at dowee. 7115 Co. Rd. 870, in Lineville. ReThe park is managed by The gardless if you are a property Alabama Power Company. Call owner or not, Flat Rock Park is a 256-396-2338 for more informawonderful way to spend an aftertion.
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had chemotherLake Weapy, then recovdowee is more ered. This time, than just a place things are not to fish, lay out going along that and vacation. All simply. She had that is great, but chemo and rait's the hidden diation already, meaning that and now we are folks need to waiting for her know about. We to see a surgeon. have a very close After a complifamily...Just the cated surgery folks and me. the doctors tell Being an only us she will have child has made to have more me grow up fast. chemo. AlMy family though the canmoved to Wecer has already dowee in the late taken so much nineties. My In times of crisis, the true meaning of community has presented itself in from my mother mother and faand father, there ther opened up a extraordinary ways to Erica Huddleston, left, and her mom Bonny. has been a conbusiness here on sistent flow of friends and acthe lake and at the ripe old age of quaintances who have replaced 14 I was thrown into a small school some of the sadness with love. I am I had only heard about from my by Erica Huddleston really amazed every time I go grandmother who taught there. home at all the things people do for Randolph County High School was my family. We have had all sorts of graduated from the University of not the most welcoming atmosphere for me was an adjustment for Alabama at Birmingham. Since my homegrown tomatoes, squash, corn, and other vegetables sent to me, but my classmates eventually graduation in 2008, I have moved five times. Of all those places, there us. At least once a week, someone took me in. My mother enjoyed cooks an entire meal and brings it new friends and a cozy church, but is one place that is always in my heart and soul. There is one place I by for dinner. Greeting cards line at the same time she missed the my mother's office from floor to quick trip to Walmart when we ran call home. That's Lake Wedowee. Now that I'm older I can't help but ceiling. It is truly amazing. out of TP. My father was right at Thanks to Wedowee and the home. He graduated from RCHS (a think of how I used to try so hard wonderful people around, we have really long time ago) so the change to get out of the small town. It's gotten through this nightmare from Birmingham to Wedowee was ironic that now I am trying even situation and are looking forward no culture shock for him as it was harder to get back in. For my mother, times have not in a positive light. We all believe for the two ladies in his life. By the time I received my high school di- always been the easiest. She is cur- that we would not get the love and attention if we were anywhere else. rently dealing with cancer for the ploma I was ready to get out of second time. The first time, she had Lake Wedowee is more than a comhere and head back to the "Magic breast cancer, it was removed, she munity, it is a family. City". I did just that and later
Small Town Life
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French-Hammond Family Fun day is getting a face lift of sorts thanks to new managers Wendy and Jake Moore. “There will be a lot of things that are the same, but we are going to sneak a few surprises in as well,” Wendy Moore said. The fifth annual event is a fund raiser for French-Hammond Park which is used by Randolph County High School baseball and softball teams and the Moores became involved in the park because of their children. “The future of the park is important to us,” Wendy said. “Our children go to school at Randolph County and right now the park does not have permanent lighting. Sometimes our teams cannot complete games because it gets dark.” Wendy's husband Jake grew up in Wedowee, in fact he played baseball for Randolph County and hit the first two homeruns at French-Hammond Park. He knows the importance of the community support needed to complete a project such as lighting for the fields. “I volunteer as a baseball coach at RCHS, and it will take the community to complete the fields,” Jake said. “This fund-raiser will be the first step
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in accomplishing our goals.” In the past Family Fun day featured inflatable rides and obstacle courses. “There will still be a lot of the same events as years past because we know the children enjoy them,” Wendy said. “But we want to get the whole family involved and have decided to add a few things for adults to enjoy as well.... As long as they don't take themselves too seriously.”
“It is always fun to see how funky children can get after going through those two booths,” Wendy said. There are numerous sponsorship opportunities available for FamilyFun Day. All the events and rides are available for sponsors to promote their business through custom signs at each event location. “We feel it is important for those businesses that support this cause to get the recognition they deserve,” Wendy said. “We are very appreciative of the support from our local business owners and we want the community to know that.” by Kelly Caldwell Sponsorship opportunities on the rides and events are limited but there Some of the new events will be are other ways people can help. family-oriented games reminiscent of “We need all the volunteers we old-fashioned field day events like can get,” Wendy said. “And, there are three-legged races, watermelon eatplenty of ways people can help physiing contests, wheelbarrow races and cally or monetarily.” egg toss. Family Fun Day will be Sept. 4 “We are going to set these games which is the Sunday of Labor Day up throughout the day and it will be Weekend. It will begin at 4 p.m. and broken down into age categories,” last until 8 p.m. Wendy said. “These games are not “We are really excited about this about prizes but about having fun event and hopefully the community and of course bragging rights.” will come out and have a fun-filled Face painting and twisty hair Sunday afternoon and in the process booths have become a staple at Fam- help support the improvements to ily Fun Day and this year is no excep- our sports fields.” tion.
News to Know
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Local collection on display at regional Museum area is utilitarLocal resiian in nature,” dents Gary and Price said. Martha Price “Churns, jugs, are collectors. It pitchers and doesn't matter other crockery if its sports were made for memorabilia, the potter’s Barbie Dolls, family and glassware or community. All hats... If they of the pottery think it has was meant to value either be used and now or in the very little of it future, they was decorakeep it. Howtive.” ever, they take Some of the more pride in more wellone collection known potters more than the from the area rest. include WilThe pair beliam Hudson gan collecting Boggs, folk pottery “Charley” from East AlaBrown, Cicero bama in the Demosthenes 1980s and Hudson, John haven't Frederick Lehstopped since. man, John There collecDavis Leopard, tion of pottery William Davis from Rock Pound, ZachMills, Bacon ary Taylor Level and Ussery and Hickory Flats These are a few pieces of local folk pottery Gary and Martha Price have colJesse James will be showlected over the years. Their collection will be on display at the Julie Smith Weathers. cased at the Collins Museum of Fine Arts in Auburn beginning August 6. “These potters Julie Smith used homeCollins Mumade glazes in the early days, seum of Fine Art in Auburn beginwhich included whatever they ning August 6 and running could find,” Price said. “The ash through November 26. by Kelly Caldwell glazes were used until the railroad “Alabama Folk Pottery has came to the area. Then salt was been around for more than 200 would be Alabama after the readded to the mix to give a differyears,” Gary Price said. “The early moval of the Native Americans in ent effect.” settlers to this area came from the the 1830s. Back then, pottery was Making pottery was a family Carolinas and Georgia and with made to be used and the style was tradition for these people and it them they brought their trades.” reflective of the purpose. was something that was passed The first settlers came to what “Most of the pottery from this
News to Know
Lake Wedowee Life 19
down from generation to generation with little deviation. “The Ussery family was one of the best known potterymaking families in Alabama,” Price said. “The heirs of Robert Ussery learned the trade and continued to pass it down to their children and grandchildren.” Zachary Taylor Ussery, grandson of Robert, remained in Randolph County and was known to use the potters mark ZTU. He also made “Alabama Churns” which have two strap handles on one side. “Alabama Folk Pottery is distinctive and highly collectible,” Price said. “We first began collecting in the '80s and have learned so much about the families that created these pieces.” Pieces of Alabama Folk Pottery from this area are on
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Gary and Martha Price have been collecting Rock Mills Pottery as well as other local pottery since the 1980s.
display at the High Museum in Atlanta as well as the Birmingham Museum of Art. “Collectors began coming to the area and 'picking' probably in the early '70s when folk art became popular,” Price said. “At that time, most of the people around here didn't think much of the old pitcher in the cabinet so they would sell it for a couple of hundred dollars... Then those 'pickers' would turn around and sell it for thousands of dollars. “I know there have been pieces of Rock Mills pottery to sell at auction for more than $75,000,” he said. “So my best advice to people that think they have Alabama Folk Pottery is not to sell it to the first person that comes calling. Do your homework and it could be worth a lot more than you think.”
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Fourth” adorned the cusWith a record tom banners that decorated crowd of spectators linthe sides of the boat and ing the way by boat and rd costumed super heroes hapland, the 3 Annual pily waved to the crowds. Fourth of July Boat PaPlaying off the movie Fanrade capped off celetastic Four, the boat also had brating America's birthcardboard cutouts of charday on Lake Wedowee. acters from the movie. “We were a little However, it was the banner worried about the turndraped on the side that enout this year because it compassed the message the was the first time we Moss family inhaven't had the parade tended...”Soldiers are the on a Saturday,” Kelly Real Super Heroes.” Caldwell, editor of Lake The boat, nicknamed FanWedowee Life and ortastic Fourth, also won the ganizer of the event, People's Choice Award said. “And we were Thirty boats participated in the Third Annual Boat Parade on Lake which was chosen through down a little bit in Wedowee. The event raised $695 for the American Red Cross. facebook.com voting. numbers, but our en“There were so many people tries more than made up for it with known as the Pride of Wedowee and we added individual category win- coming up to me after the parade their creativity.” saying different boats should have In addition to the spectators, the ners.” Other Award winners included won,” Caldwell said. “So we deparade featured special appearances by a cast of characters including Un- Salute to our Troops (Entry 3) by the cided to do a People's Choice cle Sam, Lady Liberty, Super Heroes, Valeria Garner family; Most Spirited Award, to give the spectators a say... characters from Gilligan's Island and (Entry 5) by Josh Welch; Best Mascot Well, after two rounds of voting the (Entry 20) by Jimmy and Mary Ann people agreed with the judges. We even Mickey Mouse. However, the Ward; Star Spangled Celebration really appreciated people's passion most outrageous entry of the day (Entry 18) by Scott Deering family. for their favorites and can't wait to came courtesy of the Shell, Turner The overall winner now known see what everyone comes up with and Wiggins family. next year.” “I received a message before the as “Pride of Wedowee” will have a picture of their boat displayed at Each year the entry fee for each parade from them asking if they boat is donated to a charity of the could enter two boats as one if they sponsor locations for the next year. “We really wanted to do someorganizers choosing and considering paid separate entry fees,” Caldwell the devastation the state of Alabama said. “I said go for it and didn't think thing special to honor the overall winner because I can only imagine has experienced since the April 27th much about it until that day.” tornadoes, it was only fitting to doTheir entry consisted of two pon- the work that goes into decorating toon boats attached to each other as the boats,” Caldwell said. nate the proceeds to the American With a theme that could have if it was in a traditional parade. Red Cross Tornado Recovery Effort. However, the twist was the first boat won in every category Entry 10 by “With additional donations, we the Cindy Moss family truly is the was decorated like a 1957 Chevy. were able to raise $695 for tornado Pride of Wedowee for 2011. The boats won the “Most Outrarelief,” Caldwell said. The highly decorated pontoon geous” award for their creativity. Kelly Caldwell, Amanda Causey, “This year we changed things up boat captured the judges’ attentions Gayle Gordon and Patricia Guinn a good bit,” Caldwell said. “We de- quickly with a unique approach to provided photographs for this story. patriotism. “Have a Fantastic cided to go with an overall winner
Boat Parade
Award Winners (Top, clockwise) Pride of Wedowee, Best Masot, Most Outrageous, Most Spirit, Star Spangled Celebration and Salute to our Troops.
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Locations on the map are approximate, for directions to properties displayed, call the listing agent.
Does your dog tag along with you wherever you go? For many dog owners, their dogs go where they go because they are a member of the family, whether it’s on their motorcycle, in their wedding, or on the boat. Boating with your dog seems a safe and enjoyable activity; however, it can be quite dangerous for your four-legged friend. Practice these dog safety tips while enjoying summertime activities with man’s best friend. Dr. Sam Shelnutt of Main Street Animal Hospital in Roanoke is our local veterinarian. When there are emergencies after hours he refers all his patients to his former classmate Dr. Barry Nicholls with Animal Medical Center in Anniston, Alabama. I visited Dr. Nicholls to get some expert advise on how to keep your pet safe during the hot summer months. The first topic of discussion was heat exhaustion. Dr. Nicholls stated that he sees a lot of pets who are suffering from the symptoms of heat stroke. Warning signs of heat exhaustion are heavy panting, pale gums, increased heart rate, and disorientation. If your dog starts to experience these symptoms immediately cool your dog down by submerging them into water and keeping them cool. Seek medical help if symptoms do not lessen. Another great tip Dr. Nicholls practices with his own pets is to groom your pets every summer, 32 Lake Wedowee Life
Tips to keeping pets safe while visiting Lake Wedowee
Rob & Magnolia Germany enjoy a sunny afternoon on Lake Wedowee.
News to Know Story by Amanda Causey even if your breed does not typically need grooming. “I like summer haircuts,” he stated. “It lets us see fleas and ticks easily.” Looking for fleas and ticks, and keeping your pet cool are not the
only reasons to trim the winter coat. Venomous snakes are a major threat to dogs, especially those who spend time around and on the water. Having a shorter mane will allow you to easily see if there is a bite. “Last year we lost 5 animals to venomous snake bites.” said Nicholls. The three snakes that would cause a threat in this area are the Water Mocca-
when your pet jumps sin, Copperhead, from the front of the and Coral snakes. If boat into shallow wayou see a snake near ter. There could be your pet and suspect broken glass or sticks a snake bite, take a that can hurt their photo of the snake paws. We do tend to and head to the vet. see a lot of foot lacKnowing what type erations.” of snake will help in Being around the wathe treatment of ter is not always your dog or cat. If some dogs’ favorite you can catch the thing to do. In the snake to bring along event you have a dog with you that will that gets anxious also help. Sympabout boat rides toms of a snake bite there are solutions. are swelling and Most anxiety can be pain. controlled by behavMore specific to ioral training. There boat safety is the isare also medications sue of life jackets. Is that can help, but it is it a necessity? Dr. always best to try Nicholls recomother options. mends that all dogs Nicholls said there is who are going to a new product spend time on a boat Dr. Nicholls advising his technician during surgery. called a “Thunder have a life jacket. Shirt” that helps a “Knowing if your dog feel secure and has a dog can swim is the first calming effect. He stated step to protecting your that he had seen a differpet. Get in the pool or ence in behavior during shallow area of the lake thunderstorms and boat and practice, just like rides. you would with your Dr. Shelnut and his staff child.” Also having a are available for your doggy boat ladder will small animal needs Monhelp your pet be less day through Thursday anxious in the water. 8:30 a.m.—12 p.m. and “Practice getting onto 1:30 p.m.—5:30 p.m. and the boat and they will on Fridays 8:30 a.m.—12 remember the way.” p.m. (334) 863-7111 explained Nicholls. Dr. Nicholls and his team When buying a life vest of veterinarians and techensure that you get one nicians are available 24 brightly colored so hours a day, seven days a other boaters will be able to see your pet. Howie Carter relaxes in the shade after a morning week. If you have an emergency give them a Watch out for fish of fishing on Lake Wedowee. call while you are in tranhooks and lures while sit to let them be prepared on the boat. Keep any for your situation. 256-236-8387. hazard out of their reach. ParticuAnother good point that Dr. larly fishing lines for cats. Nicholls made was “Be cautious
Lake Wedowee Life 33
Years back when the major dog food companies recalled their dog food and snacks my family, like many others in the country, did not feel safe letting their four legged family members eat just any old dog treat out there. We found this recipe in a neighborhood cook book and made them for our dogs. Yes, it is much easier to go buy dog biscuits at the store, but knowing that your pet is getting a healthy treat is just as important as your child having one!
Just how much higher will the temperature gage go? Man oh man is it hot or what? Flowers,grass and gardens are pleading for rain and pets are hiding in every shade they can find. The place to be is on the lake either splashing in the water or in a boat with the breeze in your face. Cooking is not my friend right now. By the time I sweat to death in the kitchen, I've lost my appetite. Something light and cool is on the menu at my house.
Simply Fabulous Story by Darlene Bailey Photo by Kelly Caldwell
Homemade Orange Sherbert 1 2 liter bottle Sunkist Orange Soda 1 can eagle brand milk Blend together well in a blender. Pour up and freeze as usual. (see easy!) *you can also use other flavors like pineapple, strawberry or lime. Glass Slipper Events 256.449.2946
My family looks forward to summer because when May arrives I break out the ice-cream freezer. Every Sunday night I make a homemade freezer of ice-cream. By summer's end everyone has had their turn at their favorite flavor. I will be sharing a recipe for Orange Sherbet. It is the easiest and most refreshing pleasure ever! So break out the freezer and Let's Get Chillin’. Please let us know what you think of our recipes. You can email me directly at baileydp1@aol.com. I love feedback.
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It was an were blinded ominous day. by youth and The clouds inexperience as were so heavy was I in the that in places, it possibility of seemed as their disapthough they pointment. So I were dragging reluctantly along the gave the commountainous mand and we skyline of Lake loaded the PoWedowee. The laris twins for air was thick a night on the with humidity Peninsula. Into and there was a the twins we feeling of anxstuffed the iousness that I provisions can’t quite deneeded to surscribe. I strain to vive, pulling hear the little out the comvoice screaming partments of This time of year lake weather can change from good to bad and bad to in the back of the vessels so worse in a matter of minutes. But, when the clouds clear for a sunset like my head telling that the hulls this, it makes for a great day on Lake Wedowee. me to stop, but could be I’m not quite stuffed with able to over the wind moaning, no, all the basic necessities such as a tent, howling through the trees. As I cooler, chairs, lantern, radio, fishing stand there on the 48 dock looking poles, food, sleeping bags, blankets, by Charley Norton out at the angry sea, I could see the towels, first aide stuff (I’m accident uninviting waters staring at me, darprone), inflatable Kayak and paddle, ing me to venture on. Waves were the beast. I look back at my faithful toilet paper, floats to sleep on and a slapping the dock in an effort to deckhands and could see the adrena- few other things. I piloted the twin knock me off balance and the white line in their eyes. They were ready, known as dismay and Maggie on caps clapped in the distance as despite the weather, to complete the faithful. We pressed the start buttons though laughing at its effort to do so. mission at hand. and the engines rumbled to life. We It was an ominous day indeed. Maggie was the most experienced idled at first, warming up the enSo I stood there with my brave of the crew. Although female, she gines as we crept out of the no wake two crew members, fighting with the always rose to a challenge and was a zone but increased the throttle maklittle voice and building the courage worthy pilot. Luke, who was new, ing the boats rise out of the water as to board the spirited Polaris twins seemed eager to prove himself and though accepting the challenge of and take them out into the heart of anxious to get started. They both the angry lake.
Charley’s Treasures
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We rounded the corner and went under the bridge. There before us was the open water. It was too late to turn back. We were committed, so we throttled up and pushed on. Lake spray misted over the bows at first then turning to blankets of vengeful waves. The twins seemed unimpressed and pounded back into the surge with all their might. Minutes seemed like hours but spirits rose when Shiland island came into view. We knew we were close. We navigated the shallow waters between Shiland and the mainland and found safety on the tapered shore of the peninsula. Quickly, we unloaded the provisions for the night. Although the weather had cleared, we knew how easily that could change and we had to be prepared so we set up the tent and chairs and gathered up wood we found littering the banks along
the shore. Just then we were struck by a light from the west. The sun had broken through and danced across the sky turning the intimidating clouds into a canvas of color. Orange and red dominated the sky with beams of light streaking down to the ground. The glow of amber flooded the landscape and we could feel the suns warmth easing the tensions from our perilous journey. We then realized why we came. We came to witness the beauty and awe of Earth, unfiltered or edited by man. We were there to burn a memory that we will revisit every time we feel a storm wind blow or see a sunsets glow. There is no substitute to experiencing the power and beauty of nature in its raw form. To witness it first hand without the safety of a roof or satellite cable. It’s a blessing to be part of such a wondrous place,
to feel so small but so fortunate at the same time and to sample its greatness and power. When the sun goes down and the amber fades, the night sky breaks out a panoramic view of stars, unencumbered by street lights. Stars that are so bright that they create their own light that shimmers on the water and highlights the treetops. There is no beauty like the beauty of nature and although this camping trip is a small segment in our life, its one that won’t be forgotten when so many are. This truly is life at its best. When not entertaining Lake Wedowee Life readers with his wit and wisdom, Charley is a co-owner of Norton’s Flooring with his brother, Tom. The company was started in 1976 by his mother and father. Norton’s Flooring product are in countless homes on Lake Wedowee and throughout the county.
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Deep Summer Bass on Lake Wedowee The deeper bass of summer are the bass that spend their time -- both during the day and at night – either resting, or foraging for food in and around the Lake Wedowee’s deeper waters. Big bass of summer have various hang-outs they prefer throughout Lake Wedowee. To the summertime angler on a quest for these “big bass of summer” he / she can usually begin their search along deep creek channels or along old river channel drop-offs. Make no second guesses. There is an abundance of summertime bass to be discovered while simply fishing in or near deep water…all summer long. Applying yourself and learning what it takes to fool these bass into accepting your tempting offerings (with good results), is what separates the deep water angler from the shallow water angler. There are certain lures and techniques that appeal to these big bass. Often, there are schools of Big bass that will remain tightly bunched, holding right on the depth change from shallow to deep water or they may be suspended very near these deep water dropoffs. Summertime bass, those relating to these depth changes, are always near the security of deeper water nearby. Most of these bass are here for the next few months. They will remain here until conditions change in the fall. (Lake Wedowee is dropped each fall season for winter pool). These changes -- such as falling water levels or cooling water -- will
take place from the late summer period on into the early fall period. This is when the lake’s major feeder creeks, the main lake’s water temperatures and the lake’s headwaters (usually situated below some upstream dam) will slowly begin to cool. Then these bass move shallow. Traditionally, as fall progresses, the bass will follow the shad
Hooked on Lake Wedowee by Reed Montgomery schools into the shallows. They will continue to feed and fatten up, storing built up fat reserves for the upcoming winter months ahead, until the very cold water of winter slows their metabolism and they begin to eat far less food each day. * Some bass of summer on Lake Wedowee are attracted to timbered main lake flats. Places that are shallow, providing a comfort zone that features a sudden drop-off into deeper water nearby. Here, they can search for food and retreat to deep water fast, if they need to.
* Standing timber left here during impoundment in 1983 is an excellent source for finding schools of summer bass. The numerous types of baitfish that come their way on a daily basis and meals such as crayfish often found scrounging the lake’s bottom, gives these bass of summer no reason to leave the security of their deep water sanctuary. Places to begin your search of these big bass, summertime hang outs, can be found throughout Lake Wedowee along old river channel drop-offs (some are often far from the lake’s shoreline), or they can be easily marked on a depth finder when found on the mid-to-lower lake, where clear water is more evident and summer time bass traditionally gather in select locations. There are many hidden places for targeting deep, summertime bass. They exist all throughout on all of Alabama’s Lake Wedowee…places many anglers fail to discover. Places like submerged islands, rock piles, hidden underwater humps and ridges, around mid-to- lower lake high spots and other irregular bottom features. Some bass may even be buried in deep holes or found in deep depressions (such as old ponds, ditches, inundated creeks and streams). At times these are Big bass! A good map of the lake will help remedy any doubts about what’s down there. Maps are great tools for aiding anglers in deciphering a particular Lake Wedowee Life 43
deep water situation. They are a must when angling deep water for these summertime bass. So are marker buoys and GPS units. These bass -- those that prefer the security and comfort of deeper water nearby -- are not always limited to spending their summers far from the lake’s shoreline. Neither should the anglers that pursue them. Main lake points and deep creek points, around islands, along rocky bluff-type banks or secondary ledges in deeper water. Even obvious looking banks, like those featuring scattered rocks or boulders, or man made rip-rap rocks lining the shoreline, can be excellent haunts for finding these deeper bass this summer. These can be good spots all summer long, places other anglers often overlook. Where discovering some hidden schools of big bass, all your own, may be possible! Bridge pilings, standing timber
tions and they are absolutely imperative for anglers to avoid summer heat stroke and to even hope for any degree of success, when your fishing deep water this summer season. You can’t fish if your sick from the hot, summer sun! * Prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays can cause skin cancer or help create permanent skin damage. Even stroke or heart attacks are possible in extreme heat. Sunscreen is a must. So is replenishing your sweated out body with plenty of water. Caffeine or sugarrelated drinks should be avoided. Eating plenty of fruit will help supply your body with some quick Midday heat in the upper nine- relief from the summer heat. Often ties is common in Alabama during this nourishment can provide an the late summer / early fall period. extra amount of fluids. Then there are those sweltering hot Avoid consuming alcohol and summer days exceeding one huntaking prescription drugs while in dred degrees, when anglers should the sun. Some drugs can even intake extra precautions. crease your chances of getting sunThese are very necessary precau- burned…even when sunscreen has and even along man made piers and boat houses are just a few of the places lining Lake Wedowee’s shoreline, to begin your search for targeting some great summertime, big bass hang-outs. KEEPING YOUR COOL By the late summer month of August and even on into the month of September, its as hot as it gets. These are about sixty of the year’s hottest days and this almost unbearable hot, summer weather…can actually kill. * Anglers attempting to target these late summer bass must be prepared for the worst.
52 Lake http://www.Lakewedoweecustombuilthomes.com Wedowee Life
been applied beforehand! Always drink plenty of water. Take plenty of breaks, perhaps in a shaded area not far from where you are fishing. This does wonders at midday, in helping you cool down. Or you can fish early mornings and late evenings avoiding the midday heat. Any other ways to help cool you down? How about a jump into the lake! Immersing yourself in the lake several times during the day, can help cool you down tremendously. Always wear shorts or have a change of clothes handy. * Always remember to re-apply sunscreen after a dip in the lake! Towels help too! Having two small hand towels on board, (means a set for each angler) can help too! Cool down these small hand towels by placing them on ice in the cooler, having one around your neck (or on your head under your hat) at all times. Then
you can alternate between the two cool towels every 15-30 minutes! Wearing thin, light colored clothing helps cool you down a lot and it helps you avoid getting sunburned this summer season. Hats and polarized sunglasses are a must. LURES, TECHNIQUES and EQUIPMENT FOR DEEP, SUMMER BASS There are many ways for anglers to fool these Lake Wedowee bass hidden in the lake’s deep, dark depths this summer season and there are many lures to choose from too! Not only does it take many different types of lures and various techniques to hope to even have a chance at successfully fooling one of these often, “non-feeding bass” into attacking your lures, but it takes the right equipment as well. Having several rod and reel combos armed with various strengths of fishing line (and all
kinds of lures ready to be fished from top to bottom), requires plenty of preparation beforehand. Lures are Tools When you have a job to do, you can’t get it done without the use of the right tools. Think of each lure you plan to use as a tool and then attach that lure, to the right line, rigged on the right rod. Then learn to use each outfit properly. Fishing deep water on a daily basis will require the use of a least a half dozen rods. Anglers need to acquire several rods that will range in lengths of 6 feet up to lengths of 7 ½ feet…or even longer. Each of these rods can be rigged with lures such as big, 10-12 inch long Texas-rigged worms, lizards or oversized jig combos, mid-to-deep diving crankbaits, small to large size lipless crankbaits or swim baits in various lengths. Plenty of heavy, ½ ounce to 2 ounce single, Colorado blade spinnerbaits will be needed as
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well. Even a few topwaters! Not only can your lures be described as tools, but rod and reel combos and fishing line are some very needed tools as well! Tools, when combined properly, will always help you get the job done. Techniques are as Individual as Each Angler. How you fish each and every lure is up to you. Some anglers are content with just one technique or two for catching these deep water bass during the summer. Other more avid anglers will experiment. Matching Your Equipment for Each Fishing Situation Throwing big, deep diving crankbaits all day on a wimpy, six foot rod will usually result in lost bass and plenty of fatigue, from not properly matching up your lures to the right rod and reel outfits. You need good, strong rods with plenty of good, hook-setting
backbone built right in. Coupled with dependable wide-spooled reels, strong line and sharp hooks. This combo makes everything more in your favor for landing these bass, once you fool them into biting your lures. Make no mistake about it…there are some big bass in Lake Wedowee! Its hard to get a good hook set, achieve maximum distance when casting your lures and get the hooked bass in the boat, when using the wrong rod and reel outfit. Anglers usually miss the opportunity of even landing these big bass, with anything less. Experiment - Be Versatile No matter how many deep water spots you have located, marked on a map, or saved on your GPS unit, it’s a sure fire bet that every time you fish each spot you will have to adjust accordingly. This means experimenting with various lure sizes, all kinds of lure
colors, different lure weights, lure actions (both built in action and those actions you impart) lure retrieves and lure depths. Setting up your boat to achieve the right cast to your intended target is important too. Even experimenting with various types of fishing line such as monofilament line, fluorocarbon line or braided line is suggested. You should always include consideration for each specific pound test of each line you use. There is a specific situation for every lure you choose to use. Here are a few examples; Lures Fished on Bottom – There is a variety of lures that sink to the bottom of the lake and the choice is really yours. Big Texas-rigged or Carolina-rigged worms or lizards on heavy tackle outfits, or small worms, Senkos or shad imitations fished on light tackle outfits. You may need small jig combos
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or big, oversized, more gaudy type jig combos. Both small and large sized crayfish imitations, small and large tube baits, small or large sized creature baits, small single tailed grubs or oversized twin tailed grubs. Both sizes of these types of lures can be rigged Texas style or on a jig head. Crankbaits or Lipless Lures – Crankbaits either float or suspend. Lipless lures sink. Crankbaits come in all shapes, sizes and colors. They can be huge, meaning more casting distance due to their size and weight. Big, deep diving crankbaits are very wind resistant and they dive very deep upon retrieve. Especially when utilizing the use of long rods, light line and making very long casts. Lipless lures come in all sizes, from very small 1/8 ounce light tackle models to 2 ounce heavier sizes. They too, are very wind re-
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sistant. Lipless lures can be allowed to sink to the lake’s bottom, retrieved in the mid water column or burned real fast just beneath the surface of the water. So can spinnerbaits. Spinnerbaits – These flashing, vibrating oddities should always be included in your deep water arsenal. Especially having plenty of heavy 1-2 ounce versions, with a single Colorado blade, Willowleaf blade or a combination of both. Colors can vary on spinnerbaits; its all according to water clarity. But keep in mind, deep water bass see darker colors like black or purple better. When fishing these deep water, big bass hangouts this summer and early fall season on Alabama’s youngest man made reservoir Lake Wedowee, always consider your boat position on each spot you fish. Where your boat should be sitting, and where you should be making
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your casts, determines if you successfully catch any fish. Remember to bring plenty of lures for they do hang up on the lake’s bottom and all the wood cover on Lake Wedowee. Include bringing plenty of various lure weights, all sizes of jig heads and hooks in various sizes. Oh, and always bring your camera. Your gonna need it for taking pictures of all those bass you catch…when going deep for big bass this summer on Lake Wedowee!
Thanks and Good Fishing! Reed Montgomery / Reeds Guide Service Birmingham, Alabama (205) 663-1504 Website: www.fishingalabama.com
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Submitted photos by (Top, clockwise) Kathy Peterson, Ronnie Underwood, Mary Ann Engstrom and Pam Haynes. If you would like to see your photos appear in Lake Wedowee Life, email hi-res images to news@lakewedoweelife.com.
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Photos submitted by (Top, clockwise) Debbie Bailey, Gayle Gordon, Tracy Cochran, Gail Gordon, Pam Haynes, Rhonda Hall, Debbie Bailey, Gayle Gordon and Rhonda Hall
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Are you prepared if disaster strikes? Fall is in the air bringing with it schedules packed full of activities. Whether you are enjoying the crisp cool temperatures, the beautiful autumn colors, or cheering for your favorite team on Friday night or Saturday afternoon, fall brings a sense of excitement. The Randolph County Chamber of Commerce is also excited about its activities planned this fall. As part of our “Lunch and Learn” Series that was started in the spring, we will offer a session on Emergency Preparedness August 18, at 12 noon at the First United Methodist Church in Roanoke. Speakers will address the importance of being prepared for an emergency and what to do if an emergency, such as a natural disaster, strikes. Topics will range from services rendered by the American Red Cross to filing an insurance claim after the fact. As the devastating storms that ripped through the state in April showed us, you can never tell when disaster will strike, so preparation done ahead of time is vital. On a lighter note, the Chamber is proud to once again be part of the Rock Mills Pottery Show, which will be held September 18. This event celebrates the deep heritage of what was once known as some of the South’s foremost pot-
teries. Ceramics produced in Rock Mills and neighboring towns during the mid- nineteenth and early twentieth century were distinctive and highly coveted pieces of art. In fact, some of these very pottery pieces made in Randolph county during this time will be showcased at an upcoming exhibition at Auburn University’s Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. The exhibit, entitled Bacon Level, Hickory Flat, and the Illustrious Potteries of Randolph and Chambers Counties, Alabama , will run August 6– November 26, 2011. The Rock Mills Pottery Show will no doubt prove to be a festive day for the whole family.
Chamber Chatter by Dorothy Tidwell If fun and games are right up your alley, you will enjoy the newest event the Chamber has planned, Business After Hours featuring Chamber Bingo. We invite you to enjoy an evening by the water as we gather at Lakeside Marina on August 30 at 6 p.m. This event will feature networking opportunities in a casual atmosphere followed by a game of Lakeside’s famous Bingo. All area businesses are invited to attend and see one of
the many ways the Chamber is working for you. And, finally, the Chamber will end its year at our annual meeting scheduled for October 18. Plans are still being made for this event, but be on the lookout for more information and join us as we celebrate a successful year for the Randolph County Chamber. Thank you for all your support of Chamber activities this past year. We especially want to say thank you for making our annual Summer on Main festival the best one to date! This was the third year for the festival and it was a huge success. We were proud to introduce Roanoke After Dark, an evening concert event, featuring Soul Tymes Nine. Thank you to all of our sponsors, without whom this event would not have been possible. And, thank you to everyone who braved the heat and came out for the day. We continue striving to showcase the fine attributes of our county and expand benefits for our membership. For more information on these or any Chamber activity, please call us at 334-863-6612 or email us at rancococ@teleclipse.net. We look forward to a productive fall!
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Miles Mathis (Opposite Page, left to right) thought to bring along Lake Wedowe Life before getting buried in the sand at Fort Morgan Beach; Cindy Poole Sumners and Kenneth Sumners brought Lake Wedowee Life to King’s Wharf Bermuda; Jeannie Huey and Margaret Traylor visited Stone Mountain, Ga. with Lake Wedowee Life; Tanya Nolen visited Humayun's Tomb, Delhi, India with Lake Wedowee Life; The Pass Family Eli, Cameron, Brannan, Matthew, Smith,
Mark, Seth and Carson visited the Beaches of Normandy France with Lake Wedowee Life. (This Page, left) Jett, Audra, baby Elise, Nella, Katie and Henry, Leigh, Alan, Kara, and Roy Jackson, Julie Gambill, John Pilcher brought Lake Wedowee Life to a Katie and Henry Jackson’s wedding in Lynchburg, Vir.; Katie, Abbey, David, Nathan & Paul Willis stopped by the World's Biggest Ball of Twine in Darwin, Minn. with their copy of Lake Wedowee Life.
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Index of Advertisers A & E Metal A & M Insulation Affordable Tire AGL Bank of Wedowee
39 44 42 16 56
Morning Sun Nursery Norton's Floor Covering Perryland Foods RE/MAX Lakefront Grady & Linda Stone RE/MAX Lakefront, Josephine McGuire
56 57 52 42 18
Brian Morris C& M Building Services Chad Lee, Attorney At Law Charles Thompson Construction Clay County CDJ Cooks Pest Control
57 38 35 11 60 21
RE/MAX Lakefront, Kelly & Leisel Caldwell REMAX Lakefront Scott Hewitt, Attorney at Law Sew Classy Sheppard's Jewelry SmallTown Bank
17 15 38 37 20 18
D & S Marine Docks ETC
46 18
Southern Union State Farm Insurance
47 38
Dr. Michael Edwards Dr. Barry Nicholls Fiberglass Unlimited First State Bank Fishing Alabama Friday Night Life H& M Drugs Halls Propane Kesa Johnston, Attorney at Law Lake view Auto Lake Wedowee Bait and Tackle Lakeside Grill Mac McKinney Properties Main Street Animal Hospital Midway Treasures
13 20 13 7 20 3 56 52 45 45 42 2 39 55 52
Steele Chiropractic Summit Storage Superior Gas Tallapoosa River Electric Coop TEC Security The Stuff Store W & M Grocery Wedowee Building Supply Wedowee Dock Company Wedowee Hospital Wedowee Lake and Lands Wedowee Landscape
21 29 48 55 35 39 37 48 41 21 52 46
Wedowee Marine Wellborn Cabinet Williamsburg Manor
59 35 48
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So you want to build a home? I’ve been designing and building homes for literally half of my life now. That’s 24 ½ years of building for those of you that are curious. My wife is much younger than me, obviously. You would think that by this time I’ve seen it all. However, I’m reminded every day that I have not. Every customer is different, every house is different, and every sub contractor is different. There are literally thousands of decisions required to build one house and none of us think alike. All of these variables make each project interesting and VERY challenging. I can easily remember the day I decided to become a builder. I was 24 years young, and I knew it all. I was watching a builder in my neighborhood. It looked to me as if he was riding around in his pick up truck all day with nothing to do. I was sure he was just raking in the money. I’m a few years older now and can assure you I was wrong on all counts. From a builder’s perspective, building a house is a complicated process of managing homeowners, subcontractors, materials, and a maze of unknown factors. We all start out with the same visions and goals. The end result will be a
beautiful home that the owner will enjoy for years to come. It all seems fairly simple in the beginning, but the journey between clearing the lot and the final clean up of the house is anything but simple. Subcontractors are the backbone of the building business. They will also break the back of a building business if not managed correctly. These guys are typically honest, hard working, and experienced. There is no way a builder can be an expert on every phase of the industry. The builder relies heavily on the knowledge and experience of the sub. However, subs do not think like a homeowner. They will not make the same decisions as a homeowner. Good communication between the sub, the homeowner, and the builder is critical.
Built on the Lake By Max Fulbright Building materials are far from perfect and unexpected events and factors pop up in each and every project. All of these things can be very upsetting for the owner….VERY upsetting. The builder is there to remain calm, find
a solution, and assure everyone that this project really will end one day. One thing I’ve definitely learned is that no two homeowners are exactly alike. I’ve designed hundreds of homes and EVERYONE wants something a little different. I’ve never designed the same house for two different customers...Not even close. Homeowners also vary widely in how they communicate with the builder and the subs. Some homeowners want to be very involved in every aspect of the process and some want no involvement at all. There are a myriad of decisions to make during the building process and I guarantee you if you ask ten different women what they think you’ll get ten different answers. I’ve built for Michelle, Robin, Ava, Ginger, Kay, Nicole, Kelly, Lisa, Candy, Katherine, Suzanne, Kristen, Cindy, Marsha, Vicki, Leigh, and others over the last several years and I guarantee you that they all have different tastes. But they’ve all been fun to work with, and they all have beautiful homes. Max Fulbright has designed and built dozens of homes on Lake Wedowee.