Lake Magazine January 2018

JANUARY 2018

LAKE 1

DISCOVER THE CELEBRATED FLAVORS OF ITTA BENA.

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xperience the charm of fine dining at Itta Bena, tucked away upstairs at Wind Creek Montgomery. Slip on in and enjoy a cool libation with a delta twist. Then savor some gourmet southern cuisine with a taste of Beale Street on the side. From the 8 oz. center cut filet to the shrimp and grits, every dish at Itta Bena is designed to tempt. So come discover this modern day speakeasy and get a taste of something good, plus a little treat on us…it’s our little secret.

Present this coupon to your server for a:

FREE APPETIZER with an entrée purchase.

Limit one per person per table. Offer expires 1/31/18. May not be used in conjunction with any other offers.

1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd., Montgomery, AL | WindCreekMontgomery.com | ©2018 Wind Creek Hospitality

JANUARY 2018

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Staff Chairman KENNETH BOONE

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Publisher STEVE BAKER

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Managing Editor BETSY ILER

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Assistant Magazine Editor AMY PASSARETTI

amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing/Advertising Director TIPPY HUNTER

tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.com

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Contributors KENNETH BOONE JOHN COLEY JULIE HUDSON CLIFF WILLIAMS MATT SHEPPARD MITCH SNEED GREG VINSON

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(256) 392-3613 • 1551 Hwy. 280 • Alexander City, AL Located next to Tallapoosa Ford on Highway 280

WWW.LAKEMARTINTRACTOR.COM 4 LAKE

JANUARY 2018

ROB MCDANIEL DONALD CAMPBELL HENRY FOY ERIC REUTEBUCH JOHN DENNEY JUSTIN CLAYTON J. HAROLD BANKS

All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of:

256-234-4281 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011

6400 Highway 63 South, Alexander City, AL 35010 docksunlimitedllc.com (256) 203-8400 Check out our Facebook Page: Docks Unlimited

JANUARY 2018

LAKE 5

On the Cover

385 East LaFayette Street Dadeville, AL 36853 (256) 825-9244

Courtney Finley fell in love with Lake Martin when a friend invited her to the family lake house. Since then, she has spent summers at the lake between semesters at Auburn University. Finley will graduate in the spring and will spend next summer planning red carpet events in Hollywood, California, but she'll carry with her a fondness for fresh water.

Photo by Kenneth Boone

Only Minutes from Lake Martin and Alex City!

LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES

All Private Suites with Private Bathroom & Shower

9. LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE TO

70. LAKE WATCH

THE LAKE

72. FROM THE CELLAR

10. LAKE SCENES

74. HEALTHY LIVING

14. WHERE IS LAKE?

77. CHEF'S TABLE

18. LAKE MARTIN EVENTS

79. BIG CATCHES

22. LAKE MARTIN NEWS

80. LAKE PROPERTY

63. FAB FINDS

83. PAR FOR THE COURSE

New Gym for Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy

In-House Nurse Practitioner & 40” Flat Screen TV’s

We Touch the Lives of the People You Love 6 LAKE PM16_DadeRehabHalfPg_Mag3.indd 1

JANUARY 2018 5/18/16 3:58 PM

24.

12th Annual

SWIMSUIT

& LIFESTYLE Edition

DALY WAGONER TATUM MASSEY COURTNEY FINLEY HAYLEE ROBINSON ASHLEY & CARLEE HOPPING JAYLAN REYNOLDS KATHRYN PEMBERTON LORIN DENNEY 64. JUMP AT YOUR OWN RISK Frigid Lake Martin waters await those who are brave enough to take the annual LMYP Polar Plunge 66. MORE THAN JUST A HILL Every season offers options for hiking CRATA's Smith Mountain trails

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ediLake magazine also features an online, digital . This tion, available 24 hours a day, free of charge to stories, edition provides you complete access ere in the anywh from ts isemen advert and s photo edition world with Internet access. View our digital today at www.issuu.com.

JANUARY 2018

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8 LAKE

Heating & Cooling Central Alabama for over 30 Years

JANUARY 2018

Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators Sales Month

Number of sales

Average selling price

Median selling price

Days on the market

Total houses for sale

Inventory/ sales ratio

20 16 8

$692,463 $534,648 $657,190

$570,000 $427,500 $644,950

176 258 219

210 285 341

7.00 11.63 19.21

November 2017 November 2014 November 2011

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.)

How to spot a damaged boat and avoid buying a dud Winter is a great time to get a deal repaired area are often a giveaway and Before buying a used boat, check on a boat, and extra savings could be may signal the use of filler under the gelto make sure any repairs have realized when purchasing a pre-owned coat, instead of a proper fiberglass repair. been done properly boat, but BoatUS Consumer Affairs Look for new repairs or sealant Director Charles Fort cautioned shopat the hull-to-deck joint. Boats that bang pers to be careful when buying a used against a dock during a storm often sufboat that might have previous damage. fer damage there.

“It’s not that you don’t want to buy a Evidence of sinking. Check for boat that’s been repaired, but you should consistent corrosion on interior hardhave full knowledge of the repairs and ware, like hinges and drawer pulls. Look know they were done correctly. It’s a for an interior waterline inside a locker transparency issue that will help you or other hidden interior area. negotiate a fair price,” Fort said.

Corrosion in the electrical sysHe offered these tips to help consumtem. Corrosion on electrical items, ers spot a boat that might have been such as lamps, connectors and behind badly damaged in a storm: breaker panels might mean the boat Trace the history. When a car is sank recently. Does the boat have all totaled, the title is branded as salvaged new electronics? Why? or rebuilt, and buyers know up front that Look for evidence of major there was major damage at some point interior repairs. Fresh paint or gelin the car’s history. But only a few states coat work on the inside of the hull and brand salvaged boats and some states engine room is usually obvious. All new don’t require titles for boats. Anyone wishing to obscure a boat’s cushions and curtains may be a tipoff, too. history need only cross state lines to avoid detection, which could Look for fresh paint on the engine. It may be covering be a tipoff. Look for recent gaps in the boat’s ownership, which exterior rust as well as interior damage. may mean that it was in a repair yard for a long time.

Ask the seller. In some states, a seller isn’t required to disLook for recent hull repairs. Especially on older boats, close if a boat was badly damaged unless you ask. If the seller matching gelcoat is very difficult. Mismatched colors around a hems and haws, keep looking.

Weather Outlook for January January 2018 Forecast

Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the 50s with average lows in the mid-to-low 30s and nearly 5 inches of precipitation in the month of January. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be somewhat above normal and rainfall will be slightly below normal this month.

Year to Date

Precipitation: 66.73 inches Avg. high temp.: 77.7 Avg. low temp.: 54.0 Average temp.: 65.9

Our Normal January Precipitation: 5.21 inches Avg. high temp.: 55.2 Information from Avg. low temp.: 31.6 the National Average temp.: 43.4 Weather Service.

JANUARY 2018

Lake Levels Last Month Summer: 491MSL Winter: 481 MSL Highest: 484 Lowest: 483.89 For up-to-date lake levels, log on to https://lakes. alabamapower.com.

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.

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LAKE SCENE PEOPLE AND PLACES

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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Reader Submissions (1) Tucker and Zachary Contorno fly through the air but have some difficulty landing while tubing in Parker Creek. (2) Lee Miller proudly shows off his big catch at Lake Martin. (3) Barry and Charlotte Brown's boxer Dolly B watches the Labor Day sunset in Sandy Creek. (4) Rhett Farr shared an artsy photo of his back porch at the lake. (5) Mili Lewis caught this photo of Lake Martin sailors out for a Sunday run.

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JANUARY 2018

LAKE SCENE PEOPLE AND PLACES

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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Reader Submissions (1) Cousins Vivian McKinney and McKinney Simmons enjoyed an afternoon boat ride and an afternoon cruise at the home of their Great-Aunt Linda Summey. (2) A migrating hummingbird stopped to rest at the Gainer house on Powell Drive. (3) Kevin Shubird and Audrey Patton, 2, feed the fish off their dock at Lake Martin. (4) Kelly Cochran sent this photo of her son, Will, wakeboarding near the dam near Goat Island. (5) When the Heaths' friends, the Bentleys, visited from South Carolina, they completely fell in love with Lake Martin. (6) Stephanie Huffaker took this picture of a beautiful sky over Lake Martin near Niffer's on the Lake.

JANUARY 2018

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LAKE SCENE

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

PEOPLE AND PLACES

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Reader Submissions (1) Johanna McCain captured the fog over Lake Martin one chilly October morning in Bluegill Cove.

(2) Memories are being created for Cooper Williams, son of Reid and Laura Williams, as he enjoys a boat ride around Lake Martin. (3) Ann Fulton Ferguson, Sara Tate Schroeder, Hamp and Walker Ferguson and Will Schroeder represent the rolling Tide at the Willow Point condos. (4) Marley Mask enjoyes the Fall Festival at Wind Creek State Park dressed as a chicken. (5) Tony Johnson starts the day with a Lake Martin sunrise at Dead Timbers. (6) Ana Blanco takes the stern on a canoe trip near Lake Martin's D.A.R.E. Park with her son, Irving.

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JANUARY 2018

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JANUARY 2018

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WHERE IN THE WORLD IS LAKE? PEOPLE AND PLACES

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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Reader Submissions (1) Terri DeVries and Lt. Rachel Markham at Alpha Missle Alert Facility in Minot, North Dakota, with Lake magazine.

(2) Lake magazine stopped at Sainte-Mere-Eglise, Normandy, France, where an American paratrooper landed on the pinnacle of the church tower during the WWII liberation, with Ann and Billy Harrison, Lynn and Benny LaRussa and Sarah and Bruce Denson. (3) Skyle Bartlett and Casey Turner visited the Louvre with Lake magazine on their trip to Europe. (4) Ed and Dixie Hicks took Lake magazine in front of the Cave of the Apocalypse of St. John on the Island of Patmos, Greece. (5) Adam Till, Eve Cobb, Tiffany Till and Dwight Cobb took Lake magazine on their trip to Houston, Texas, to help with Hurricane Harvey flood relief efforts.

14 LAKE

JANUARY 2018

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS LAKE?

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

PEOPLE AND PLACES

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Reader Submissions (1) Sellers and Liz Gantt, Frank and Mary Ann Burns, Charlotte Knight, Sarah Clegg, Chris Stephens, Pam Payne and June and John Wilson took the September issue of Lake to Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. (2) John and Jamie Dark and Richie and Larkin Radney took Lake aboard the Ameoba sailboat in Baddeck, Nova Scotia. (3) Charlotte and Rap McBurney took Lake magazine cruising in Plymouth Harbor, Plymouth, Massachusetts. (4) Robert and Kathleen Greer took Lake whaling and crabbing on a cruise to Alaska.

(5) Gene and Linda Jackson took Lake magazine with them on the Royal Caribbean Serenade of the Sea cruise ship to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and New England.

JANUARY 2018

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Happy New Year!

Make The Most Of It With A New Dock

“You crown the year with Your bounty and goodness... ”

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JANUARY 2018

Psalm 65:11

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256-825-3199 JANUARY 2018

LAKE 17

Jan. 8-9 Throw Away Day

Jan. 16 Beekeeping Course

The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership The 2018 Beginner Beekeeping Course will start and the Tallapoosa County Commission will Jan. 16 and will be held every Tuesday through team up to provide dumpsters for the disposal of Feb. 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Dadeville household items at Recreation Center. five locations from Cost is $45 for adults CALENDAR OF EVENTS noon on Monday and $35 for students. through Tuesday The deadline for regevening. The dumpistration is Jan. 11.

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN sters will be availCall the Tallapoosa able free of charge at County Extension the Alexander City office at 256-825-1050 Annex, 395 Lee St.; for more information Double Bridges on or to sign up.

Highway 63; Old Daviston School Jan. 19-21 on state Route 22; Dear Mama: Camp Hill Town Letters and Hall at 309 Holley Music Ave.; and Union Community Center from World at 4191 Highway 50.

War II No liquids, appliancTo celebrate the es with compressors, grand opening of tires, batteries, light the renovated Mt. bulbs, televisions, Vernon Theatre, the computers, propane theater organization tanks or hazardous has partnered with or medical waste will the Talisi Historical be allowed. For more Preservation information, contact Participants of all ages Society’s Friends of Sabrina Clark Wood race in Alabama Nature Tuckabatchee to presCenter's 5K Critter Crawl at 334-429-8832. ent this original pro-

Jan. 8 Horizons Unlimited

through Lanark's trails

Craigger Browne will present A Tribute to Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan at the Alexander City Board of Education building located at 375 Lee St. The meeting is held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., and refreshments are available. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the entire semester of Horizons Unlimited programs.

Jan. 13 3rd Annual LMYP Polar Plunge

duction, which was written by Adrian Lee Borden and is based on true events. For tickets and information, call 334-991-2079 or visit www.mtvernontheatre.net.

Jan. 21 Tallapoosee Historical Society

Dr. Charles Mitchell will present A Pictorial History of Alabama Agriculture, the telling of Alabama’s agricultural story from the Native American Creeks to modern production, at the Tallapoosee Historical Museum on the square in Dadeville at 2 p.m. Dr. Mitchell will share photographs he collected during his time at Auburn University during this afternoon program, which is open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

The Lake Martin Young Professionals will host its third annual Polar Plunge at Kowaliga Restaurantto support the Lake Martin Resource Association.

Presented by USAmeriBank, the doors open at 10 Jan. 21 a.m., and the fun continues until 4 p.m. Entry fee is $20, which includes tickets to Kowaliga’s special 2nd Annual Bridal Extravaganza food stations, live music and plenty of space for The City of Wetumpka and King Bridal Formal kids to play outside. Both of Kowaliga’s indoor Boutique will host its second annual Bridal cash bars will be open, and the plunge into Lake Extravaganza at the Wetumpka Civic Center Martin happens at noon. This year’s event will from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., with a fashion show at include a $100 Dash for the Cash as swimmers race 2:30 p.m. Admission is $5, and proceeds benefit to a buoy and back. Prizes also awarded for best the Wetumpka Youth Program. Plenty of premier Polar Plunge costume. See page 64 for details.

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wedding vendors from throughout Alabama and Georgia will display products and discuss services.

Tonya Terry will be the guest emcee, and there will be live entertainment provided by Shelia Jackson and Friends. Food and beverages will be available, along with giveaways. Attendees will have the opportunity to win an ultimate wedding package valued up to $50,000. Visit the Bridal Extravaganza of Wetumpka Facebook page for details. For more information, contact LaToya King at 334-580-9770 or email her at kingsformalboutique@gmail.com.

Feb. 5 Horizons Unlimited

Jan. 22 Horizons Unlimited

Feb. 10 Critter Crawl

Jan. 29 Horizons Unlimited

Season-Long Events

E. Paul Jones will present Rev. Maxwell at the Alexander City Board of Education building located at 375 Lee St. The meeting is held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., and refreshments are available.

Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the entire semester of Horizons Unlimited programs.

Marilee Tankersley will present The Wetumpka Impact Crater at the Alexander City Board of Education building located at 375 Lee St. The meeting is held from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., and refreshments are available. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the entire semester of Horizons Unlimited programs.

Feb. 2 Mardi Gras Auction at ACT II Fine Arts Center

The Alabama Nature Center will host its annual Critter Crawl trail run through Lanark’s 5-mile trail system. New this year is the Yeti Dash, which is a 1-mile trail system run, and only participants in costume will be eligible for a Yeti Dash medal. The 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. with the 1-mile run starting at 9:45 a.m. T-shirts available for those that register before Jan. 31. Sign up at active.com today. Call 334-285-4550 for information.

Trivia Night at Niffer’s on the Lake

Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts trivia night at 7 p.m.

Winners receive Niffer’s gift cards. First place gets $40; second place gets $25; and third place gets $15. Grab a group of friends and come out for a night of games. A bonus question is posted on the Niffer’s Facebook page at 2 p.m. Thursdays.

Real Island Supper

St. James Episcopal Church will hold live and silent auctions, raffles, wine/beer/non-alcholic beverages, hors d'oeuvres, desserts and entertainment at the Alexander City Theatre II Fine Arts Center at 264 Tallapoosa St. to raise money for the Feast of Sharing outreach. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.

Feast of Sharing, a ministry of St. James and First United Methodist churches, provides a free meal twice a week to hungry people in the area. For tickets, please contact St. James Episcopal Church 256-234-4752. For more information, contact Denise Graves at 205-826-4066.

Feb. 3 Gumbo Cook-off

Photographer Glen Wills presents Forgotten Alabama with 10,000 photos of abandoned churches, buildings, vehicles and schools throughout Alabama’s 67 counties. The presentation will be at the Alexander City Board of Education building located at 375 Lee St. from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., and refreshments are available. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the entire semester of Horizons Unlimited programs.

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 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.

Antique Car Cruise-in

On the first Saturday of each month, car enthusiasts cruise into Arby’s parking lot on Highway 280 in Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Join the fun and enjoy an era of classic cars and classic music.

Charity Bingo

MainStreet Alexander City will host a New Orleans-styled event with a gumbo cook-off, live music and activities for all ages at Queen’s Attic from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Entry fee is $100 per team, and entries must be submitted by Jan. 20.

First-place winners of the cook-off will get $500 cash; second place will receive $250; and third place takes home $100. For information, contact Executive Director Bre Smith at 256-329-9227.

Play charity bingo at Jake’s Restaurant at 16 Broad St., Alexander City, at 6 p.m. every Thursday night.

Cards are $1, and proceeds benefit local charities.

Amateur Radio Club

The Lake Martin Area Amateur Radio Club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the terminal building at the Thomas C. Russell Field Airport (Alexander City Airport) with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. Contact Michael

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Courtney at 256-825-7766 or Mike Smith at 256-750-5710 for more information.

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.

Check the calendar at Calendar.

RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit

The Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony on Lake Martin exhibit is on display at the Alexander City Board of Education building, located at 375 Lee St., all year long.

The Equality Performing Arts Center

The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the second and fourth Friday nights of each month at 6:30 p.m. on Alabama Highway 9 in Equality.

Country/Western, bluegrass, Southern gospel and instrumental music featured. Contact Wayne Glenn at 334-541-3302 for more information.

Millerville Trade Day

Bibb Graves School on Highway 9 hosts this trade day on the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Find books, toys, models, coins, lamps, original artwork, jewelry, clothing, antiques, glassware, quilts, home décor and more.

Refreshments available.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats.

Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

Library Storytime in Dadeville

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

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. and offers kid-friendly movies on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m.

Gamers’ Club

Adelia M. Russell Library hosts kids ages 12 to 17 in the conference room on Fridays after school until 4:30 p.m. Bring handheld games or games from home (no games rated M allowed). Participants should be picked up by 4:30 p.m. For information, call 256-329-6796.

Ladies’ Book Club

Ladies 18 years of age and older are invited to participate in the club at Adelia M. Russell Library on the last Thursday of every month. Meet in the conference room at 4 p.m.

Call the library at 256-234-4644 for each month’s book title.

Electronics Recycling

The City of Alexander City Public Works Department hosts an electronics recycling event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Items accepted include computers, computer mouse, keyboards, modems or routers, CD and DVD players, power supplies, PC mix systems, home or cell phones, printers or copiers, mainframe servers, audio/video adapters, laptop chargers, cable boxes, nickel cadmium or lithium ion batteries and flat screen monitors and televisions.

CRT monitors and televisions are no longer accepted. Call 256-409-2020 for information.

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Certified Outboard Dealer

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JANUARY 2018

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Lake Martin News Winter storm Benji left nearly 8 inches of snow on Lake Martin landmarks and trees

Local teacher saves boater from drowning

Rare winter storm blankets lake area in snow Winter storm Benji dumped 8 inches of snow at Lake Martin last month in a surprise white out that caught motorists off guard. The National Weather Service had predicted the storm would drop less precipitation during the Dec. 8 storm that swept up from the Gulf.

At its onset, Benji coated the ground with sleet. Big, fluffy flakes followed, and the weight of the accummulation snapped tree branches all through the lake neighborhoods.

Some 2,400 customers were without power, officials reported, and roads were closed across the lake area, as most were impassable without four-wheel drive.

The following day, the snow offered lake residents a rare and breathtaking scene, as twigs, rooflines and docks were outlined with several inches of the white stuff.

The snow slowly melted over the next few days, though temperatures continued to dip below freezing at night. ~ Staff Report

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It was supposed to be a simple step from the boat onto the dock for Jacksons Gap resident Duane Davis as he and his wife Gladys were taking their boat out of the water at D.A.R.E. Park.

Next thing Davis knew, he was coming up from beneath the cool waters of Lake Martin gasping for air on a November day.

“I misjudged the step and fell, falling into the deep cold water at the end of the dock,” Davis said. “I went under and the cold water took my breath. I surfaced and started yelling for help.”

Davis had just finished hunting and was still wearing heavy clothes and boots when the accident happened. To make matters worse, he also was recovering from surgery.

“I tried swimming but my heavy winter clothes made that impossible,” Davis said. “I reached up and took hold of the side of the dock but could not lift myself out of the water due to the cold water and the weight of my soaked clothes.

Two months prior, I had spinal surgery and have lost upper body strength.

Both Davis and his wife Gladys panicked, but Dadeville native Jacob Tidwell heard the commotion.

“Both my wife and I started to scream as I was sinking,” Davis said. “He just came running to help.”

Tidwell was taking his boat out as well.

“I was in the parking lot strapping stuff down when I heard a noise,” Tidwell said. “I heard it and ran to help.”

Tidwell was able to assist Davis by getting down on his stomach and helping to reach Davis around the dock and along the walkway to the dock at D.A.R.E. Park.

Tidwell, a first-year fourth-grade math teacher at Dadeville, even helped Davis along the rocks.

Davis explained he was not wearing a life jacket, as they had cleaned the boat, and the only ones on board were stowed away.

“The lesson learned is to always have life jackets,” Davis said.

Davis is thankful Tidwell was nearby.

“I would have died had it not been for him,” Davis said.

Tidwell said he just did what anyone else would have done.

“It is nothing,” Tidwell said. “It is not anything anyone else wouldn't have done.” ~ Cliff Williams

June festival announced for lake area Though the New Year has just begun, Alexander City Chamber of Commerce officials and volunteers have their sights on the second week of June, which could bring hundreds or even thousands of visitors to the Lake Martin area for a combined Jazz Fest and Sun Festival event.

JANUARY 2018

Chamber CEO Ed Collari made the announcement of the plan last month at an Alexander City City Council meeting, explaining that the 28-year-old Jazz Fest and the 5-year-old Sun Festival will become one massive, week-long celebration in 2018.

“The comDelta Rae performed at last year's Jazz bined festivals Fest, which this year will be a weeklong over the same event in conjunction with Sun Festival week should give the area a signature event that could draw visitors from across the Southeast who would stay for several days,” Collari said.

“The Jazz Fest has been around for 28 years, and the track record it has is incredible,” he told the council. “But it has been done by a committee, and over time, it has got-

ten down to where just a handful of people were having to handle the majority of the work. Primarily, it was driven by Russell Lands and Robert Gunn, in particular.

“So they approached the Chamber about taking it over, and we were glad to do that. But in looking at Sun Festival and particularly the timing of it in late July when the weather was just so hot, we thought that holding the two the same week just made sense.”

The festivals will be held the second week of June with the big Jazz Fest shows set for Friday and Saturday night.

Collari said that Sun Festival events will be held all week to keep events for the community, kids and to help draw people to the downtown area and to promote all the things the city has to offer.

“We’re still in the planning stages right now, so we don’t know exactly what the lineup will be or what the final product will look like,” Collari said. “But I think by having it in that time frame, before so many people start taking vacations and before the extreme heat gets here, I think it will draw much better crowds.

“Plus, I think by concentrating the efforts, it gives the area a signature event that could draw visitors from across the Southeast who would stay for several days. Jazz Fest has been the big event for a long time, and we are excited to be a part of it and to help make it even better with the weeklong events that lead up to the two big final nights of music.”

Collari said more details would be available in the coming months. ~ Mitch Sneed

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Daly Wagoner

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in Alexander City and hopes to stay Daly Wagoner was born and raised from travel, since the majority of her in the area for most of her life, aside family is nearby. munity College, Wagoner took As a freshman at Central Alabama Com ram, which allowed her to attend prog advantage of the Gateway Scholarship it was a smart decision. college for free close to home. She said go off somewhere else to college.

“I wasn’t ready to leave town yet and nity to attend for free. Why would I It’s a good option and great opportu pass that up?” said Wagoner. s to transfer to a four-year college After a year or two, she said, she plan study mental health. ity to and is leaning toward Auburn Univers not dealing with the blood and but ing sett “I want to be in a hospital she how people’s minds work and why,” guts. I’ve always been interested in added. school with her father as the Wagoner played soccer throughout high e, she uses her skills to help anymor coach, and although she doesn’t play him with this year’s team. rite thing about the area, and she The lake is Wagoner’s absolute favo family on Lake Martin. Between loves spending time with friends and and cruising around and taking in the boating, wake surfing, wakeboarding r time on the west side of the lake nea sights, Wagoner spends most of her the lake home of family friends. s on the beaches and finding cool, She and her friends also enjoy bonfire new places to hang out. this size, so it’s cool to have the “Not everyone has a lake, especially lake is so clean, and it’s not our opportunity to be out there. I love that trashy or dirty water,” said Wagoner. s times, working downtown at She has a part-time job between clas With most of the employees around Alexander City’s The Coffee Corner. bonded and get along well. her age, Wagoner said, they have all and laid back vibe,” she “It’s a great place to work, with a fun added. hasn’t changed Although Wagoner said Alexander City a essarily much over her lifetime, that’s not nec of the feel n lltow sma the s bad thing. She like the e’s ther that fact the community, and opportunity to get to know everyone.

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Alexander City's Daly Wagoner liked the idea of staying close to family in her early college years

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(Right) Daly Wagoner and Kathryn Pemberton stopped to play a round of shuffleboard at Wicker Point; (Below) Wagoner can't help but smile spending a sunny day on a sandy Lake Martin beach

Wagoner takes a break at Dixie Sailing Club at New Hope

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Brock, Amy and Kaleigh Hill enjoy an afternoon boat ride in a new SeaRay SPX230 from Russell Marine russellmarine.net

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Tatum Massey

Tatum Willbanks Massey is an Alexander City native and an Auburn University graduate who spends her time with her daughter Averie, works as a personal trainer and finds her own personal time to compete in CrossFit and enjoy outdoor activities.

“It’s Averie, work, CrossFit; and then, any other time I get I want to spend it being active,” said Massey, who has stayed close to home because of her family and Lake Martin.

Seven-year-old Averie may be a performer at heart and loves to sing and dance, but also already has her mother’s passion for outdoor activities. Massey said they enjoy hiking together around the lake, and their favorite spot is Smith Mountain, with its beautiful views.

Having grown up around Lake Martin, Massey said she spent every summer visiting relatives’ and friends’ homes on the lake.

“My favorite thing is to be doing something active on the water, whether it be skiing, wakeboarding or something else I can continually push myself to get better at,” Massey said.

Being competitive in nature is what motivated Massey to get involved with CrossFit three years ago. Aside from the personal challenge it creates, Massey is partial to competing with a team. Next month, she will be headed to Miami for a CrossFit competition, and her ultimate goal is to make it to regionals.

“Not only do I love the competitive aspect of CrossFit, but there are constantly a thousand things to work on and improve on for personal growth,” Massey explained.

Massey is no stranger to fitness, as she was a gymnast growing up and walked on the Auburn cross-country team while a student. Even though Benjamin Russell High School did not offer the sport, her innate athleticism and hard work led to her success in a sport she had never previously practiced.

“If I were to give advice to someone just starting out in the fitness world, I would say to be patient, stick with it and be consistent,” said Massey.

Turning her passion into a career, Massey has worked as a personal trainer and boot camp instruc-

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Staying close to family and Lake Martin was important to Massey when she finished college at Auburn

tor for the last 12 years.

Currently, she spends a few days in Alexander City at Anytime Fitness and travels to Hoover Rec in Hoover three days a week.

“Fitness has always been a big part of my life. The reason I pursued this as a career is to motivate others to realize their potential, both physically and mentally. I want to help change people’s lives for the better, leading them on a healthier path and just letting them know you care,” Massey said.

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Athletics and fitness have always been her passions

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Massey will compete with a CrossFit team in Miami next month

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Goat Island is one of Courtney Finley's favorite places to visit on the lake

Courtney Finley

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will Upon graduation, she ing nn pla nt complete an eve d oo llyw Ho in p shi intern

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Auburn University’s Courtney Finley grew up in Florida but attended high school in Andalusia, Alabama, when her father took a job there. Now 23 years old, she will graduate Auburn University this spring and looks forward to spending the summer in Hollywood, California, where she has landed a red carpet event planning internship. While she’s very excited about the opportunity, the downside is that this will be the first summer in many years that she has not spent at Lake Martin.

“I became very close with a local family and spent a lot of time with them on the lake. It’s so beautiful there,” Finley said.

Goat Island is one of her favorite places to stop when boating with friends, and she’ll miss getting to see the goats this summer.

An internship with the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce introduced Finley to event planning projects and helped her determine her chosen career path.

“I got to work with the Sun Festival Kids Fest event and put it together as I wanted. I also sat in on meetings about planning Sun Festival and met a lot of people. It was fun to find out what they do and how they bring new things to Sun Festival,” she said. “I learned a lot about how it all comes together, and I decided I would really like to do this as a career.”

Finley wants to take advantage of her time in California

to cross a few activities off her bucket list – like visiting Las Vegas and hiking among the redwoods.

“I will be there for two-and-a-half months, so I hope to find a connection for boating, too,” she added.

But before she heads west, there are a few things she wants to be sure to do here, including spending time with her first and brand new niece.

“My sister is married and lives in Andalusia. She just had her first child, a beautiful little girl. She was born six weeks early and had to stay in the hospital for a while, but she is doing fine now. I want to visit her and start spoiling her so she will remember me,” Finley said.

She also hopes she might still be able to visit Lake Martin at the end of the summer.

“I am interviewing now and looking for a job for next fall, in case I don’t stay in California, but I hope I could still spend a little time at the lake. I keep up with my friends from Alexander City when I can, and it would be nice to see all the people I have met there and see the new innovation center. It was being planned when I was an intern, but I haven’t seen it yet,” she said.

Whether she remains local, stays in California or returns to Destin, Florida, where her parents now live, Finley said she’s fallen in love with Lake Martin, and returning – even if only to visit – is not a matter of ‘if’ but only ‘when.’

She was introduced to Lake Martin through a friend and took an internship with the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce to stay close to the lake and gain event planning experience

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Chase Maynard and Courtney Finley take a break from riding on the new GTX Limited 230 and Wake Pro 230 Sea-Doos from Russell Marine russellmarine.net

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Haylee Robinson has been a regular at Lake Martin since childhood and loves to spend time here at her father's lake house

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Haylee Robinson

Originally from Montgomery, Haylee Robinson is now a senior at Auburn University majoring in apparel merchandise with dreams to be a fashion buyer.

She’s known this is the exact path she wants to follow since her high school days at Alabama Christian Academy.

“It’s the only thing I could ever see myself doing. I’ve always had a sense for visuals and being creative. I just love fashion, and the industry is so fascinating,” said Robinson, 22.

While she tried her hand at modeling during college, Robinson prefers the styling aspect of the industry. She said she got to walk in a show for David’s Bridal through her collegiate Modeling Board, which kind of stumbled into her path.

“Modeling was definitely fun, but not something I would want to do fulltime. I enjoyed it though, but I consider it more of a hobby,” explained Robinson.

Having always known people with lake homes, Robinson has been coming to Lake Martin most of her life but spends more time here now that her dad bought a house two years ago in the Kowaliga area. Robinson said her favorite things to do at the lake are riding the Sea-Doo, going tubing and enjoying

boat rides.

“I’ve always loved the water. I would love to live by the water some day, and Lake Martin is by far the prettiest water of any lake I’ve ever seen. It’s just gorgeous,” said Robinson, who currently lives with a roommate in Auburn who is from the Lake Martin area in Alexander City.

Robinson is a self-proclaimed Adrenaline junkie, as well, and enjoys skydiving and visiting haunted sites. Cage diving with the great white sharks is near the top of her bucket list.

“I’ve always been dying to do that. I think it would be so cool. I’m all about experiences and traveling,” said Robinson, who also enjoys baking and crafting.

This month, Robinson will be traveling to Atlanta for a semester-long internship as a buyer for Fab’rik. She will then graduate in May and hopes to find a full-time job in the Atlanta area.

“New York is my dream, but it’s hard picturing leaving the South right after college, so I’ll probably stay around the Atlanta area for a bit first,” Robinson said.

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Ashley

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Hopping

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Even though Ashley Hopping is a senior at Hoover High School, she considers herself having grown up on Lake Martin.

Her grandmother has had a condominium in Stillwaters since she was little and she, along with her family of three sisters, goes there almost every weekend each summer.

“Spending time with my family on the lake is my favorite thing. We usually hang around Chimney Rock and Peanut Point, and it’s a lot of fun,” said Hopping, 17 years old.

Her favorite spot is Chimney Rock, and although she said she is not daring enough to jump off the highest rock, she does take the risk from the medium one and enjoys watching other adventure-seekers plunge into the water from great heights.

“I’m just not that much of a daredevil,” explained Hopping, who prefers tubing on the water as her activity of choice.

Similar to her sister Carlee, Hopping has been cheerleading her entire life and is currently the captain of the Hoover High School cheerleading team. She also competes on the competition squad and with the Ace Warriors, which is one of the best teams in Alabama, she said.

“I really like inspiring the younger girls in cheering. I have two younger sisters, and I want to be a good role model for them. People look up to you on this team,” Hopping said.

Working with younger children is a passion of hers, and she babysits and teaches cheer classes part-time.

Hopping said that, with three sisters, their household is always busy.

“There is always something going on, but it’s a lot of fun. I love having my sisters around because it’s like having built-in best friends. I don’t want to leave them next year when I go to college,” said Hopping.

While she is still undecided between wanting to attend Auburn University or the University of Alabama, Hopping said she hopes to cheer in college and wants to pursue an engineering degree.

Her dream is to own her own house on Lake Martin one day, but she also hopes to return to her hometown of Hoover because she likes the community and connections she has made there.

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cheerleader, A competitive cheer in s Ashley hope to ) Sisters ve bo (A ; college ley Hopping Carlee and Ash ce have cheered sin ol ho sc ry ta en elem

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Ashley and Carlee take a photo op with one of Goat Island's celebrity residents

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college career at Carlee started her unity College and mm Shelton State Co a larger school plans to transfer to

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Carlee Hopping

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Carlee Hopping currently attends Shelton State Community College in Tuscaloosa to complete her core college classes and be able to cheer at a school that is a 10-time consecutive winner of UCA College Nationals.

“I’ve been cheerleading since I was about 7 or 8, and I’ve always enjoyed it. It’s the performing aspect of it that I like the most and to get to tumble and stunt,” said Hopping. “I got to be a part of Shelton’s 10th win, so that was very special to me.

I’m hoping this January we will make it to the 11th.”

Hopping also shares her talents and works at Ace cheer gym in Tuscaloosa where she teaches children ages 3-12 how to tumble.

“I love working with all the kids. The 3-year-olds just light up when they flip over for the first time, and the older kids still light up when they learn a new skill,” said Hopping, 20 years old.

When not cheerleading, Hopping said, she spends as much time as possible at her grandmother’s Stillwaters condominium on Lake Martin.

When she was around 4 years old, Hopping said, she can remember her first lake experience at her grandmother’s house with a boat.

“I was too young to remember going to the lake a lot really, but there are pictures of me in a life jacket on the water,” said Hopping, the oldest of four sisters.

Her memories have since expanded after growing up spending summers on the

lake, tubing and jumping off Chimney Rock.

“I go down to Lake Martin any chance I can get down there. Cheering is priority, but any free chance I have, we’re usually at the lake with my family and a couple of friends,” Hopping added.

Hoping to apply to a four-year university after community college, Hopping has dreams of becoming a nurse and cheering at a larger school.

The Hopping sisters love nothing more than spending time at Lake Martin

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Tyler Royal and Courtney Washington take a ride on Lake Martin in a Supreme S238 from Russell Marin e russellmarine.net

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Jaylan Reynolds

Alexander City native Jaylan Reynolds maintains a fashion blog while finishing her master's in communications

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Alexander City native Jaylan Reynolds is finishing her master’s degree in communications at Troy University, but she’s already busy making videos and blog posts on the side.

As a freelance makeup artist, she posts tips for natural hair care, makeup and fashion on her All Things Fabulous blog at www.fabulousbg. blogspot.com.

“I have been interested in makeup and beauty since middle school. My mom really encouraged me, and I loved it from the start. I blog fashion spotlights and makeup trends and how to use healthy products for taking care of natural hair,” Reynolds said.

She also creates videos for her YouTube channel at Jay_reyn.

With a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism, Reynolds loves videography and the process of editing. When she finishes her master’s, she hopes to work in crisis public relations.

“In disaster situations, that’s the person who writes the press releases and works with the media. I like to think about how people respond to things. You have to be sensitive and use all kinds of ways to get the message across – social media, as well as traditional media outlets. I’m kind of an analytical person,” she explained.

Reynolds said she has analyzed what she sees and reads her whole life.

“When I read, I like to pick it apart, to figure out the symbolism,” she said.

Reynolds loves the As a child, Reynolds loved lake's magical place s, to find magical places in where she spent ho urs the little-traveled coves and exploring as a child sloughs of Lake Martin.

“I would go out on the SeaDoo with a friend, and we would explore these hidden places in the woods – places where the ferns grew under the trees. We called them fairy places,” she said. “Going on those adventures, seeing different areas – creeks and shallow areas – it was just so much fun, every time.”

But Reynolds said she wasn’t ever reckless about her Lake Martin adventures.

“One time, I was at a friend’s birthday party and was on the dock getting ready to get in the water, and a friend came along and pushed me in. I wasn’t really prepared for that, and I panicked. There was an inner tube near me, but I

couldn’t get up out of the water to get to it, and eventually, the person who pushed me in had to come and get me. That really taught me early to be aware of my surroundings and be prepared if something goes wrong,” she said.

The incident also

gave her a sense of responsibility regarding her two younger sisters.

“One is at Benjamin Russell High School and the other is at Alexander City Middle School, so they are doing all the things now that I used to do. I am in a good position to guide them, and I’m trying to be a good role model,” she said.

With her passion for makeup and fashion, Reynolds was excited about modeling for the Swimsuit & Lifestyle edition of Lake magazine.

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Haylee Robinson, Courtney Finley, Courtney Washington, Chase Maynard and Tyler Royal take a ride on Lake Martin in a Nautique GS24 from Russell Marine russellmarine.net

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Kathryn Pemberton

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As a freshman at Central Alabama Community College, Kathryn Pemberton is happy to be close to Alexander City, which is where she calls home.

Pemberton is part of the Gateway Scholarship program and said she will likely stay for the full two years that it offers, although she said she was ready to get out of high school.

“I like that CACC is still close to home, and I also like that Alexander City is close to the lake,” said Pemberton.

As an avid lover of Lake Martin, Pemberton admits she has never jumped off Chimney Rock and probably never will because she has a fear of heights. When she’s on the lake, she enjoys relaxing with her dog, Emery, along with family and friends. Pemberton also likes to park her boat at any of the numerous islands around Lake Martin, and she likes to wake surf and wakeboard.

“I’m definitely at the lake more than anywhere else. I grew up in Alexander City, but I wish I had lived on the lake,” Pemberton said.

Her family used to have a cabin on Lake

Martin near River North and hosted cabin parties.

With a large family from the area, she said, they are all very close and have big holiday gatherings with a favored pastime of eating a lot of good food.

Having two older sisters, Pemberton said, she still enjoys the college experience on the weekends when she visits her sister at Auburn University but is happy to be attending CACC until she figures out what she wants to do.

One option she is considering is transferring to UAB to study physical therapy or exercise science and work with a younger group of athletes.

Currently, she has a part-time job at After the Bell, which is a program for kids with parents who work. Pemberton helps watch the kids, feeds them, does homework with them and lets them play.

“I enjoy working with the younger kids the most because they’re more loving. My nephew, Brayden, is 4 years old and is one of those kids in the program I get to hang out with,” she added.

CACC's Kathryn Pemberton takes a seat at the Big Beach Mayor's table

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CACC's Pemberton spends more time at the lake than anywhere else – and she loves it that way; (Inset) She plans to take full advantage of the Gateway Scholarship and attend college locally for the first two years

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Pemberton loves her relaxation time at Lake Martin

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Even though she works in Auburn as an orthodontic assistant, Lorin Denney still considers herself an Alexander City resident.

Denney grew up in New Site and graduated from Horseshoe Bend, where she won the title Miss Horseshoe Bend, and still lives in the area.

Two years ago, Denney graduated from Central Alabama Community College, took an orthodontic assisting course and has been working at Sprayberry Orthodontics ever since.

“I love my job. My favorite part is being able to see the end result with children and the self-esteem boost they get after they have a good smile,” said Denney, 22 years old.

Growing up near Lake Martin presented many opportunities for boating, tubing and soaking up the

sun with friends.

“Summers are the best because everyone gets together out on the water, and there’s good fellowship with friends,” Denney said.

While at CACC, Denney was a school ambassador, which put her in the spotlight as a role model for younger kids.

“The ambassadors are the ones everyone looks up to. We speak for the school and are the eye of the school. I got to do a lot of community work with Alexander City as well,” said Denney, who focused more on volunteer work throughout New Site when growing up.

When Denney is not spending time with her family and her new niece, Lucy Smith, she enjoys traveling to the beach in Pensacola, Florida; otherwise, she keeps a steady daily habit of work and home.

Although she Alexander City is still home is unsure what the for Auburn orthodontic assistant Lorin Denney future will hold, Denney’s goal is to travel as much as possible before returning to settle down in her hometown.

“I see myself staying in Alex City long-term. I enjoy the smalltown feel; I like that we have mom-and-pop shops and buy in town; and everyone knows everyone. It’s just a good environment for children, which is why I’d like to raise a family here. But it’s all I know right now, so I would want to travel for a bit first,” explained Denney.

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Denney loves the smalltown feel and shopping local

Lorin Denney

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A CACC graduate, Denney would like to raise a family in Alexander City after spending some time travelling

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The Wilson family enjoys an afternoon cruise on the Godfrey Pontoon SP2500 UL from Russell Marine russellmarine.net

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No matter the weather, the plunge takes place at noon

Jump at your own risk

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STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & PHOTO BY JUSTIN CLAYTON

The Lake Martin Young Professionals will host its signature Polar Plunge event Jan. 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kowaliga Restaurant to support the Lake Martin Resource Association.

“It’s kind of a unique event, and we were lucky to find the right group to benefit. Partnering with LMRA has been a huge contributor to this event’s success and has created a positive impact,” said Jacob Meacham, Alexander City Chamber of Commerce’s vice president of business development.

This is the third annual Polar Plunge, which essentially dares people to jump into the lake waters during winter months. Since its inception, there has been an increase in participation, sponsorship and proceeds made each year.

Meacham explained that the first one was held in 2015 around the time LMYP was trying to re-organize as a group, and it was looking for a habitual event to establish its footing.

“Someone came up with the polar plunge idea. It sounded crazy, but it worked. It’s a great combination of a fun event while benefiting an organization that supports the lake,” said Meacham.

The inaugural event had freezing temperatures, and therefore, decreased the number of people who actually took the plunge. Meacham said turnout for the event though, was still close to 300, and about a quarter of the people who attended actually jumped in the water. That number rose to 400 the following year and had more risk-taking participants to partake, due to the warmer weather.

“We hope for good, warm weather like that again this year, but it’s also fun when it’s cold because it’s more of a daring action to jump into the freezing cold water,” said Meacham.

For those choosing to take the plunge, noon is the kickoff time. There will be changing rooms available, built by LMYP members, for participants to change either before or after the plunge and to dry off and warm up.

New events for this year’s Polar Plunge include awards for the best Polar Plunge costume and a $100 Dash for the Cash event. This event entails a swimming race out to a buoy

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located offshore that participants must circle around, swim back to shore and cross a finish line on the beach. The winner receives $100 cash.

LMRA has been using the funds it receives from LMYP each year to benefit its lighted buoy project to increase the safety of nighttime boating on Lake Martin. One lighted buoy costs nearly $500, so the amount of money needed to support the cause is exceptional.

“LMRA helps make the recreation safer and more fun for people who use it, so this was a good fit to benefit them from a lake-inspired event. We’re also glad we can help raise awareness for what they do, which is important for us, since the work is so vital to the community,” said Meacham.

Similar to last year, there will be a photo booth sponsored

by Russell Marine that includes a backdrop, props and a snow machine for people to take memorable pictures. If it’s cold, Meacham said, there would be fire pits, as well.

“We have more sponsors this year than ever before because people recognize the good cause we’re supporting, and it certainly wouldn’t be possible without these sponsors,” said Meacham.

Tickets for the Polar Plunge, which is presented by USAmeriBank, are $20 per person ($10 for LMYP members) and include four tickets to Kowaliga’s special food stations and live music by Dallas Dorsey and The Rails. Tickets will be available at the door the day of the event. Tickets also will be available for purchase online at www.lakemartinyp.com/ polarplunge.

Kowaliga’s two indoor cash bars will be open as well, along with plenty of outdoor space available for kids to play.

T-shirts designed and produced by North Lake Crafted will be on sale for $20.

“Kowaliga has been so kind to let us use the space for the past few years. It has definitely helped with the growth and success – with the drinks, the great food, the indoor and outdoor space – I don’t know what we would do without them,” Meacham said.

JANUARY 2018

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1031 Lakeshore Drive, Jacksons Gap • $379,000 Cozy, super cute, lake cabin styled for outdoor fun...sits on deepwater cove that opens to big water. 3BD/2.5BA, split plan w/ spacious master BD/BA, double granite vanity and lg. walk in closet. 2BD/ BA on opposite end. Open kit/din/LR. laminate flooring throughout, 3 sets of french doors on lakeside open to huge deck, perfect for entertaining. Lovely flagstone walkway to dock. Covered boatslip w/ lift and floating dock. Nice landscaping. Everything you need to begin making memories on Lake Martin!!

RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com

499 Old Still Road, Dadeville • $795,000 REDUCED!! LOVELY- 3-level Bermuda Bluff Cottage design house located in the gated community of The Preserve in Stoney Ridge.

Features a 4BD/3.5BA w/wrap-around screened porch and lots of windows to maximize natural light. Custom built cabinetry throughout the home.Gorgeous pine flrs and tongue and groove ceilings. Open floor plan stone fireplace, sound system and central vac. IMMACULATE. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com

128 River Ridge Road, B2, Alexander City • $219,000 LIVE ON LAKE MARTIN in this adorable townhome with one car garage in the wonderful low density community of Hillside Hideaway. Conveniently located to Hwy 280. 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom with gorgeous view and assigned boat slip. Beautiful community pool. Very convenient to Alex City & Auburn. Ready for Lake fun and football season! A MUST SEE! Call today!

RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com

697 Win Blu Drive, Dadeville • $229,000 Custom 4BD/2BA log home located within minutes to beautiful Lake Martin... cozy, comfortable with a spacious, well designed open floor plan, including vaulted ceilings of yellow pine in FR and stone FP w/woodburning heater.

Lg. master suite w/vaulted ceiling. Master garden tub, separate shower.

All BDs have new carpet, freshly painted exterior, new HVAC system, new privacy fence, above ground saltwater pool, outdoor pavillion and pool house w/toilet. 30x30 Shop bldg, 12x24 pool shed, covered porches. Private community boat launch and lake access. Call today to see!

RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com

96 Shady Bay Point, Jacksons Gap • $318,900 Awesome lake lot in Shady Bay Subdivision, minutes from Hwy. 280, Alex. City and Auburn. This lot is wooded and gently slopes to lake, perfect to build your lake home w/walkout basement. Features new, concrete seawall, great dock and lovely gazebo to watch the afternoon sunsets. Great lake views and good water!

RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com

JANUARY 2018

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I

ts hard rock outcroppings may seem changeless, but Smith Mountain’s character varies with the seasons, and I just can’t choose a favorite. Spring is spectacular with the awakening of life, hillsides exploding in blooms of mountain laurel and rhododendron. Summer is indeed hot, but there is usually a breeze on top of the mountain. I can visit by boat since the lake is at full pool, and there is always the option of wading or swimming at many places along the Lakeshore Trail.

The Island Hop Trail can be walked in winter, but its islands are fun to access in summer by very short, shallow-water swims. The first fall cold fronts invigorate Smith Mountain hikers, and the tower offers spectacular fall color viewing.

In winter, I can hike as fast and hard as I like without sweat or bug spray, exploring miles of secluded shoreline exposed by the lake’s lowered water level. And occasionally, winter offers the opportunity to experience something almost otherworldly.

Try visiting Smith Mountain just before the crack of dawn on a cool, crisp, windless morning. Lake Martin is often covered in a blanket of fog in such conditions, and if you are lucky, the fog will cover everything in sight, leaving only you and the very top of Smith Mountain exposed to a kaleidoscope sky. From the tower, you feel anchored to the only terra firma existing in a magical world covered in mysterious vapors that flow like liquid, changing colors as the first rays of the sun pierce through the mist to the East.

If you are not inclined to make such an early morning climb in person, visit CRATA’s Facebook page at www.facebook. com/CRATAhikes/ to view the fabulous two-minute video, Smith Mountain Sunrise, by artist/photographer John Denney. It will take your breath away.

I’ve never met anyone who was not impressed on the first visit to Smith Mountain, and that was certainly the case for one of my heroes, Jimmy K. Lanier of Eclectic. Jimmy is the founder of the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association and was the driving force in rebuilding the historic fire lookout tower and making it safe and accessible to the public free of charge.

“I remember when Jerry Bynum first took me up Smith Mountain. I had seen it many times from a distance. It looked rather small, and I just wasn’t expecting much,” Lanier said.

“The steepness of the climb soon convinced me there was more to this hill than I originally thought; then, when I reached the summit, I was overwhelmed.

“The huge, jagged rock formations of Smith Mountain are unlike anything in our area. Before you even climb the tower there is an open 360-degree view of Lake Martin and the rolling, wooded hills of the southern piedmont. The word spectacular does not do it justice. Only people who haven’t been here would say it is not a mountain. I don’t care that the elevation above sea level is not that high. Smith is a mountain, and it is beautiful.

“I knew instantly that CRATA was going to have to build hiking trails to and around Smith Mountain and that we were going to restore the dilapidated old fire tower. I didn’t know the first thing about restoring fire towers or have a clue about how we were going to get permission or access to do it, but I was determined to learn and find a way.”

And find a way he did. There were many legal, logistical and engineering obstacles to overcome, but Lanier was a man on a mission and would not be deterred. CRATA eventually gained title to Smith Mountain and with help from dozens of volunteers and contributions from hundreds of individual donors, the tower was rebuilt to be safer and stronger than it ever was when 66 LAKE

More STORY BY J. HAROLD BANKS PHOTO BY JOHN DENNEY

The morning sun breaks through the fog over Smith Mountain

JANUARY 2018

than just a hill

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LAKE 67

Our Thanks to Recent Donors Legacy

Middle Tallapoosa River Basin Clean Water Partnership

Visionaries

Lake Martin Resource Association Dr. Rex & Bickie Bushong Robert W. Peavy

Vista Viewers

Ashley & Mark Norton

Trail Blazers

Dr. J. Max Austin Jerry & Carol Krenk Patricia Bice in memory of Robert E. Bice and Robert E. Bice Jr. B.L. Young Land Co. Horton & Gayle Adcock

new. Hikers enjoy miles of CRATA-produced trails on and around Smith Mountain, but the fire lookout tower is the main draw, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

“Rebuilding the Smith Mountain fire tower was the most difficult and rewarding thing I have ever done,” Lanier said.

“The project totally consumed me, occupying every conscious thought and most of my dreams. I was touched by the willingness of the community to pitch in and help, inspired by the appreciation and passion so many had for what we were doing.

“The results of our combined efforts far exceeded my expectations, and I’m thrilled that Smith Mountain has become so popular. I had no idea that a restored fire tower could bring so much joy to so many people. Smith Mountain is sacred to me, and I would visit every day if I didn’t live so far away. Working on Smith Mountain changed my life – for the better.”

The selfless work of Lanier and CRATA has also changed the Lake Martin community for the better, and CRATA has visions for much more. In addition to being on the verge of opening another series of hiking trails, CRATA is in the midst of an ambitious project to build an outdoor environmental education center on Smith Mountain. The natural and cultural history of the Lake Martin area will be told through a series of unobtrusive kiosks, high-quality graphic display panels, encased exhibits, informative signs on the tower landings and more.

You can be a part of this project, and I’m sure you will be as proud of the results as were our many tower-restoration donors.

Persons contributing $100 or more will have their names immortalized on a cast metal plaque. Mail your contribution to CRATA, c/o Jimmy K. Lanier, P.O. Box 240503, Eclectic AL 36024.

Help tell our county's story CRATA is raising $50,000 to make Smith Mountain Park an educational center on the nature and history of Tallapoosa County

Contribution Form Name_____________________________________ Date_______ Address_______________________________________________ City_______________________ State_______ ZIP____________ Phone________________________________________________ Email_________________________________________________

Giving Levels

Tax deductible gifts to “CRATA-Smith Mountain Tower Restoration” are greatly appreciated! Please return this form and your gift to: Jimmy K. Lanier, CRATA, P.O. Box 240503, Eclectic, AL 36024 All donors will be recognized in print. All donors of $100 or more will be recognized on a permanent cast plaque. Anonymous gifts at all levels will be respected for confidentiality. Honorariums, memorials and appreciations will be acknowledged per donor direction.

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Teachers' Helper Trail Blazers Vista Viewers Summit Toppers Visionaries Legacy Sponsors

Up to $99 $100-$249 $250-499 $500-$999 $1,000 or more $5,000 or more

Amount enclosed $_____________________

JANUARY 2018

JANUARY 2018

LAKE 69

It's about chemistry Data indicates clean, healthy lake

I

n October of 2016, Lake Watch of Lake One exception to this rule was the striped bass Martin celebrated its 25th anniversary on the die-off that occurred last summer. That was caused beautiful grounds of Camp ASCCA – celby a somewhat unusual situation, the disappearebrating two and a half decades of watching ance of a deep cool-water, oxygenated refuge, a over the waters of Lake Martin. Many notable phenomenon that occurs under certain weather achievements were recounted, along with felconditions once in a while during the summertime. lowship in our group’s mission of preserving and Other water chemistry measurements reinforced improving the water quality of Lake Martin and the status of Martin as a clean, healthy lake, as surrounding waters. well: an average pH near neutral at 7.1 (7.0 is neuSince the group’s inception in 1991, dozens tral), and relatively low alkalinity and hardness at of volunteers have given of their time, talent 21 ppm and 22 ppm, respectively.

LAKE WATCH and treasure in a number of ways to help fulfill The other major test conducted by our volunBY ERIC REUTEBUCH the Lake Watch mission. Some teers is bacteria monitoring, specifihave been trained and certified by cally E. coli monitoring. Significant Lake Watch volunteer Joanne Alabama Water Watch and faithlevels of E. coli in the water indicate Walker monitors the water quality fully monitor water quality at one fecal contamination, or in layman’s at her Sandy Creek dock or more sites on the lake or one terms, poop in the water. This is, of of its several tributary streams. course undesirable, as it can make a Others have shared their knowledge person very sick. of water testing and watershed The average E. coli level found stewardship with youth and othin the lake and its tributary streams ers in their community through was 54 E. coli/ per100 milliliters of environmental education efforts. water – which is quite low and conAnd others have contributed to the sidered safe for swimming and other Lake Watch effort by serving as whole-body water contact. officers, assisting in group events Of the 28 measurements, there and through financial support. All were two that were above the state’s of these efforts are needed to sus‘safe’ level, which is no more than tain and grow what has become one 235 E. coli per 100 milliliters of of the premiere and most resilient water; one was in the Little Sandy volunteer water-testing groups in Creek, and the other was a small the state. tributary that flows into Chattasofka A tally of Lake Watch efforts for 2017 as of the end of Creek. All readings in the lake were quite low and safe. A November 2017 indicated that volunteer monitors have monigeneral rule of thumb is: Don’t swim in muddy water after a tored more sites (24 versus 18) and submitted more watersignificant rain event, as this tends to flush feces off the landtesting data (121 versus 115 records) than the previous year scape into the water and may cause unhealthy bacteria levels in – kudos to monitors! a stream or lake.

So, what do all of these numbers tell us about our lake?

To check out all of the water quality data in the Lake Martin Let’s look at water chemistry first. Water chemistry monitors watershed, just click on the water data tab the Alabama Water test the water for six-to-seven parameters: temperature, pH, Watch website, www.alabamawaterwatch.org/water-data/, alkalinity, hardness, turbidity and dissolved oxygen, and some where you can explore all the sites around the lake, as well as measure Secchi disk depth (a measure similar to turbidity that sites on other lakes and streams around the state, and examine indicates water clarity by dropping a black-and-white disk in their water quality. the water until it disappears).

But, alas, I digress – my main goal was to extend my The 2017 water chemistry data, 93 readings, are indicative whole-hearted gratitude to our dedicated volunteer monitors of a clean, healthy lake. Dissolved oxygen, one of the most and supporters of Lake Watch of Lake Martin. We all benefit important parameters for sustaining gilled critters, such as from their selfless efforts. I would encourage you to consider fish, tadpoles, mollusks and many aquatic snails and insects, joining our ranks to ensure a clean, healthy lake for generaneeds to be five parts per million (ppm) or higher to support a tions to come – visit us at www.lakewatch.org and sign up. healthy population. The average reading for our lake in 2017 was 7.3 ppm (minimum of 6.5, maximum of 9.0), which Eric Reutebuch is president of Lake Watch Lake Martin. For means that the fish and other aquatic critters in the lake are more information about Lake Watch, visit www.lakewatch.org. generally happy and healthy.

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JANUARY 2018

@

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Silver Sponsors

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JANUARY 2018

LAKE 71

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JANUARY 2018

No Smokey Wines Napa and Sonoma hit hard in California wildfires but damage to vines is minimal

L

et’s start the New Year off with a quick look at the for shipment is stored at the wineries. Again, those small past. The California wildfires of 2017 created uncerproducers took the greatest immediate hit, but the jury is tainty for the wine industry on several levels. still out on future vintages and the vineyards themselves.

Starting in late April, the 2017 wildfire season burned Though the Northern California fires were fully contained more than 1.3 million acres in almost 9,000 fires across by the end of October, there may be lingering problems. the state. At this writing, the so-called Thomas fire By spring of this year, we should have a better idea of in Venture County, northwest of Los Angeles, was still how many vines may have been damaged by fire. Vines are burning and had destroyed some 250,000 acres and 1,000 pretty resilient, but the effect of smoke damage will have to structures with only 30 percent containment. As a compari- be assessed over time. Smoke may have affected some of son, Lake Martin is 44,000 acres. The economic toll for the the 15 percent of grapes that had not been harvested when 2017 season is estimated to exceed $150 bilthe fires broke out. Those were mostly Cabernet lion with at least 45 lives lost and hundreds of Sauvignon, which because of the thicker skin, injuries. may have gone unscathed.

The fires that swept through Napa and Some smoke damage can be filtered out or Sonoma counties in early October raised conblended. Most of us would hardly notice, if at siderable concern for the wine industry. The all, and that juice will not be used for premium wine business in these two counties generwines. We might see some price increases in ates more than $10 billion in sales and bilfuture vintages, but we probably would anyway. lions more in tourism. Upward of 40 percent There will be plenty of wine at the right price of Napa’s workforce is employed in the wine from all those grape-growing regions outside of industry. Early reports of the devastation may Napa and Sonoma. have exaggerated the overall threat of these A final report on the extent of damage losses to the industry and future pricing. in Napa County shows that only five wineries The Northern California fires were devassignificant damage, with less than 8 FROM THE CELLAR suffered tating, with more than 40 lives lost; 220,000 percent of vineyard acreage affected by fire. The

BY HENRY FOY acres scorched; and hundreds of structures real tragedy in Napa may be in the 652 homes burned to the ground. Images of the fire-ravand the seven lives lost in Napa County. aged tasting room at Signorello Estates quickly became the Moving beyond that, 2018 promises to improve the local proof of how catastrophic the destruction had been. Santa prosperity and add a few elements of excitement and advenRosa took a significant hit with 2,800 homes burned. ture to the landscape. There seems to be a renewed appreTasting rooms and non-production facilities at 15 relatively ciation of what smalltown living can provide and the comsmall wineries also were reduced to ashes. On the whole, munities around the lake – including Dadeville, Tallassee, the vineyards themselves were largely unharmed by fire.

Eclectic and Alexander City – are poised to take advantage The loss to those 15 wineries cannot be underof that. Local businesses are expanding, and new ones are stated, but the damage to the region’s capacity is opening across the region. minor. Napa and Sonoma may be the most celebrated, but Our wine expo in October, a big wine tasting to benefit 70 percent of California’s grape production comes from the the Lake Martin Animal Shelter, was evidence that our wine Central Valley region, south of Napa and more inland. Only community is growing as well. Oh, and the effort raised about 10 percent of either Napa or Sonoma is planted in more than $9,300 for the shelter. Participants had more grapes. than 25 wines to choose from. We look forward to similar So what burned? Besides the structures, which largely events exploring wine, spirits, beer and cigars in the coming fell victim to strong ember-laden windstorms, most of the months. damage was to trees, grass and chaparral (shrubs and thorny

bushes). For the most part, the vineyards were still green Henry Foy is the owner of Emporium Wine and and moist from irrigation and had very little vegetation Spirits with the area’s only walk-in humidor and around them. These open areas actually helped to slow the cigar lounge, Café 128 and Gallery 128 in downspread of destruction. town Alexander City at 128 Calhoun St. He can be reached If there were a bright side, it would be that most of the at 256.212.WINE, on Instagram, Facebook and at empo2017 harvest was not in the vineyards but had already been rium128@bellsouth.net. harvested and was in the wineries. And very little wine JANUARY 2018

LAKE 73

Flavor Fitness Herbs add taste and flair but no calories

U

sing dried or fresh herbs is a and tasting their best. Grocery stores sell great way to add flavor to food, herbs loose in plastic boxes, in bundles or taking a dish from good to great sometimes growing in pots. Choose herbs and satisfying. Herbs provide a healthy that smell fresh and have vibrant colors. If avenue to cut back on the saltshaker and the herbs are packaged in a box, open the add abundant flavor to recipes without box to check the freshness. Avoid herbs adding any calories. Herbs can fill in that do not look or smell fresh, appear for flavor when you eliminate sugar, fat limp or have black spots. and salt from food and make vegetables At home, loosely wrap herbs in a damp more appealing to those who typically paper towel and store in a zip-closure bag shy away. Foods prepared with herbs are filled with some air or in an airtight congenerally much more satisfying because tainer. This will ensure the herbs do not they are bursting with flavor.

HEALTHY LIVING get damaged.

Herbs can be the focal point of a dish Basil can be the exception. Cut basil

BY JULIE HUDSON (like tomato mozzarella basil salad); likes temperatures around 55 degrees, they can be used to add subtle flavor which is colder than room temperature or to enhance other ingredients. The properties of and warmer than the refrigerator. Tests have shown various herbs are different; therefore, they should that if you buy basil refrigerated, it should stay in be added to foods at times that best bring out their the refrigerator. If you cut it yourself or buy it at flavors. For example, dill, chives, parsley, cilantro room temperature, store it at room temperature. and basil are tender, delicate herbs and should be Herbs sold in a bunch should be treated like a bouchopped, snipped or torn and added at the end of quet of flowers. Start by removing all bands and fasthe cooking process. The more hearty herbs – like teners; then, snip the stems and place stems down in oregano, thyme and rosemary – can be added earlier a few inches of water. This will keep them hydrated in the cooking process to allow their flavors to infuse but not wet, and they will remain fresh for up to a into the dish. Sometimes, even delicate herbs can be week. You can place a plastic bag over the herbs if added in the beginning and the end of the cooking you wish. After a couple of days, the stems can be process. trimmed to help keep them fresh.

Whether you use dried or fresh herbs, proper storYou may find herbs sold as a plant, or you may age is of upmost importance to preserve these grow them yourself. The benefit of buying a potted delicate plants. Fresh herbs are grown and plant or growing your own is that they may transported just like other vegetables; last up to several months or longer, and you therefore, there are several reccan snip off the plant as you need it. Having ommendations for keepherbs in a pot or in your garden will cut ing herbs fresh, safe back on waste and will allow you to use them over time.

To extend the life of herbs, wash them only when you are ready to use them. Before using herbs, wash your hands with warm soapy water. Hold the herbs by the stems and vigorously swish them around in a bowl of water until they are dirt free. Shake the herbs over the sink and then spin dry or blot with a paper towel. Herbs will cut and chop better when they are drier.

Dried herbs can be a tasty and more convenient alternative to using fresh herbs. They require special care, just like the fresh variety, because heat and light will degrade the flavor of dried herbs. The best way to protect dried herbs is to store them in an

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JANUARY 2018

Herb

How to Use It

Parsley

Pastas and eggs

Dill

Potatoes, fish and dips

Chives

Cilantro

Light onion flavor for sauces, such as sour cream and chives for potatoes Thai and Middle Eastern dishes, lamb, chocolate, jellies, sauces and drinks Italian dishes, sauces and Southeast Asian dishes Chicken, scallop and egg dishes and classic Bernaise sauce Broth, soups, stews, meats and poultry Mexican or Indian dishes

Oregano

Pizza sauces or chili recipes

Rosemary

Breads, infused in oil, pork chops, poultry, fish and root vegetables Sausages or breads

Mint Basil Tarragon Thyme

Sage Marjoram

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Relative of oregano; pairs well with meats and poultry

airtight container or bottle and inside a cabinet away from heat and light. Proper storage of dried herbs will ensure freshness for at least a year.

Sometimes fresh herbs are difficult to find, or it may be easier to use the dried version. In a recipe, substitute dried herbs in place of fresh by using less.

Dried herbs are more concentrated, so you can use a third of what the recipe calls for in fresh herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of a fresh herb, use 1 tablespoon of the dry version.

Food would be much less flavorful if we did not use herbs. Fresh herbs are the most important ingredients when it comes to making condiments – such as pesto – salad dressings and salsa. Salads will come alive by adding fresh herbs to the greens. Rubbing fresh or dried herbs by themselves or in combination with olive oil or butter onto meat will add lots of flavor. Adding herbs into eggs or drinks makes them more exciting.

If you are new to cooking with herbs, I suggest choosing new recipes that incorporate herbs. This is the best way to become familiar with flavors and discover what herbs you like.

Great food is not always centered on the main item, but rather, the supporting ingredients that add freshness and fullness to the flavor of the creation.

We touch the lives of the people you love

Julie Hudson is a dietician at the Lake Martin Wellness Center in Dadeville.

Assisted Living Short Term Rehab Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy Long Term Care

JANUARY 2018 PM16_HalfPg_Magazine8.2016.2.indd 1

LAKE 75 8/12/16 3:14 PM

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Quail Cure Ingredients CHEF’S TABLE

BY ROB MCDANIEL Rob McDaniel, executive chef and general manager at SpringHouse Restaurant, earned a bachelor's degree in restaurant and hotel management from Auburn University and is a graduate of the New England Culinary Institute.

1 1 1 5 1

pound brown sugar pound Kosher salt vanilla bean bay leaves tablespoon dried chili flakes

JANUARY 2018

Directions

Blend everything well in a food processor and reserve until ready to use. Season quail liberally with cure, allow to sit for three hours; then, rinse and dry birds well. I like to oil the birds lightly and grill or smoke at this point.

LAKE 77

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78 LAKE

JANUARY 2018

Timing is everything H

itters in baseball, quarterbacks and receivbottom. That is why anglers often are taught that ers in football and even musicians all have dragging a worm is best during the day. something in common: Timing is critical.

The activity level of fish is often suppressed in The best hitters in baseball 'slump’ when their the afternoon. I can relate that to how I feel after timing is off. From hearing golfers talk, I’ve I eat a big meal. I want to hug the cover of my learned that timing is a critical element of the recliner and let my food settle. Someone would swing. If all the components of their bodies and have to set a nice dessert down in front of me for their bats or clubs are not in the right place at the me to eat something then. right time, bad things happen – like strikeouts or, Later on in the day, I’ll be active again. And like myself in golf, lost balls.

I’ll be hungry again, too. I might even travel away How often have you watched football and from the house to get something to eat. seen a quarterback confidently throw to a spot Weather is a huge factor that affects our timing, BIG CATCHES on the field when there’s no one within 10 yards as well. Certain weather factors – like clouds, sun, of the ball? That was a timing route gone bad. wind, rain, cold, warm and barometric pressure

BY GREG VINSON Other times, a quarterback will throw to a spot on – impact the activity levels and preferences of fish. the field, and it seems as if no one is there until, Predatory fish have adapted for survival by suddenly, a receiver breaks into that open spot just as the ball being opportunistic. I can think of plenty of occasions where arrives. This is a timing route executed, and it almost always I knew I was in a good area, but I couldn’t get a bite. Then it results in a huge play. would get cloudy; a little wind would start up; and maybe it Musicians, especially those in bands, cannot perform without would even start raining. The fish in that area would suddenly having perfect timing. I’ve heard some bands with bad timbegin to bite – perhaps even start schooling – and a seemingly ing, and it was never pretty. There are so many aspects of our bad day suddenly turned magical. lives where timing – either by chance, or more importantly, by In the past, I would have chalked it up to the chance version design – determines an outcome. of ‘right place, right time,’ and I still welcome anything that The cliché says, “Timing is everything.” Well, fishing is no will get the fish going. But, now I try to take advantage of the exception. opportunity when that occurs.

Many times, I’ve heard anglers at a weigh-in say, “I guess I If you are following the weather forecast, it’s often possible was just in the right place at the right time.” to plan where to be when to maximize your efforts. Daily and I’m guilty of using this one, too. When anglers drop this line, hourly forecasts make it possible to plan the day better. All they are very humble about their success; they really did get of the sudden, ‘right place, right time’ becomes a product of lucky; or they want to appear so to keep from having to share design rather than chance. the real details with their competition. The reality is that sucThis has never been more evident to me than the past few cess in fishing is often dictated by being in the right place at the years on the Bassmaster Elite Series. The level of competition right time. Of course, things like bait selection, presentation, is the pinnacle of the sport, and fine lines separate the highly etc., are critical as well, but even those are driven by timing. successful from the mildly successful. Certain years, I’ve gotTiming, as it applies to locating fish, is essential. Take the ten in a groove and things have gone well; then, I’ve had a few baits and presentations out of the equation for a moment. seasons where it seemed and felt like I did everything right, yet Before you can catch a fish, you have to put yourself in the didn’t get the results I needed. right area. Time of year often determines what areas the fish I once watched post-tournament footage from an event in prefer. Fish are dependent on their environments for survival. which I had done poorly, and to my surprise, realized I fished An area that offers the perfect combination of food, habitat, the right baits in the right areas. One factor that I repeatedly oxygen and water temperature at one time of year will often be noticed that got very little attention on television is how imporundesirable to the fish at another time of year. Fish also have tant timing was. I gave up on certain areas before the bite develcertain preferences for reproduction, and they are going to oped. In other words, my timing was off. move to these areas when the timing is right to spawn.

This article is maybe as much for myself as it is for you, the Time of year is extremely important, but that can be narreader. It is important to remember that timing is everything – rowed down even more to time of day. There are some general most of the time. Focus on attention to detail. Take mental and rules, like throwing a topwater early in the morning and dragphysical notes of the timing when experiencing success and ging a worm later in the day, that many of us are familiar with, when experiencing failure. Learn from experience to predict but it can be much more complex. Topwater is good in the where the fish will be and what they will bite when. Maybe morning because there is low light, and the fish are more active then we would more often find ourselves in the right places at early in the morning. the right times, not by chance, but by design.

But temperature and oxygen also play roles in timing. The topwater can ‘call’ these aggressive fish in and allow an angler Greg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on the to cover a much larger territory per cast. As the sun moves Bassmaster Elite Series and PPA tours. He lives in Wetumpka overhead later in the day, the fish begin to hug cover along the and grew up fishing on Lake Martin.

JANUARY 2018

LAKE 79

Did it make a difference?

Local merchants weigh in on last year's fall extension of summer pool

J

anuary at Lake Martin is well suited for I also talked to Randy Dawkins, area presimany things. dent of River Bank and Trust in Alexander The fishing is great. Cool water temperaCity. I wondered if he saw an increase in lendtures mean the huge striped bass patrol near ing activity this fall. Would increased home the surface, all the more accessible to the area sales translate to more loan activity? anglers.

Dawkins responded, “We have talked about Hiking is prime in January, also. You don’t how much busier we have been this year for have to brave 90-degree days, and when the this time of year. I hadn’t thought about that hardwoods drop their leaves, you have all being a reason. That could be a factor.” the more view of the water at places like the Finally, I talked to Paige Patterson, a fellow LAKE PROPERTY Cherokee Ridge Alpine trails. real estate agent at Lake Martin Voice Realty.

BY JOHN COLEY Real estate wise, I think January is the perShe definitely felt an increased pace of busifect time to go looking as a buyer. True, the weather is cool, ness this fall. and traditionally, we don’t have many homes or lots on the Paige reported, “For the first time in five years, I market. The listings usually start increasing in February did not see a decline in activity at all from summer to and March. fall. Buyers kept coming and kept buying! More than a I still like to look in January because the water is down dozen of my clients bought the first day they came to look. as far as it will go. Everything is laid bare, and there is It was great to enjoy the water through September at full no mystery. There are no questions like, “How shallow pool, and the general consensus about low pool is, ‘It’s is this spot at winter pool?” or, “Will I be able to use the not that low!’ I believe Lake Martin is a year-round real boat ramp in January?” These questions are answered at a estate market. Our competition is other lakes around the glance in the flesh.

South. Our amenities (on-water and in-town) are unbeatJanuary is also a great time for reflecting on the past able.” year and planning for the future. When I look back at the I also asked Patterson what she thought the potenfall of 2017, I was really excited at the prospect of Lake tial effect for a fall full pool would be in the future. Her Martin remaining at full summer pool until the middle of thoughts turned more to the current waterfront homeowners.

October. For the previous 30 years or so, the rules that gov“Alabama Power has a specific formula for this water erned Martin Dam said that it must begin lowering its level table, and the plan is to go down to 10 feet every sixth after Labor Day. year. So I think there will be some confusion after we get The new rules for the next few decades say that, given used to this 7-foot lowering. We just try to stay in tune enough rainfall, Lake Martin can stay at the summer with their plan and educate as many people as possible. My high pool mark later into the fall. I was among many in the advice is, when in question, ask Alabama Power, not your area that were excited about that. We all wondered how neighbor.” much a full fall pool would affect local businesses and Personally, I agree with Patterson and the others that felt (selfishly) real estate sales. an increased level of activity in the fall of 2017, both in So, what, if any, change was there during the first fall full retail and in the real estate world. As I have written here pool? Retail is usually the first indicator of traffic trends. before, I think it will take a few years for the snowball In that vein, I thought about our local eateries. effect to gain momentum. The more people that visit Lake I checked with Mark Albertson of Oskar’s Café in Martin in the fall, the more businesses will stay at full staffDadeville. If you have never been to this gem of a restauing to accommodate them. The more they are accommorant, you have missed out. Oskar’s is located off the water, dated, the more people will return, etc. just north of the Blue Creek Bridge on Highway 49. It has I do think this will continue to be an excellent trend for been a cornerstone of the Lake Martin restaurant industry the greater Lake Martin area. The benefits won’t be restrictfor many years. Albertson said that they did see an uptick ed to the shores of the lake. Greater tourism traffic will in business this fall, especially in November. When I asked positively affect people in town, as well. him if he attributes that to the full pool, he said that it’s Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going hiking. kind of hard in his business to single out the factors; however, he did think that the fall full pool, combined with John Coley is a broker and owner of Lake Martin Voice extra heavy Auburn football traffic, made for a successful Realty. Visit his blog at LakeMartinVoice.com. last quarter of the year.

80 LAKE

JANUARY 2018

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LAKE 81

We wish you all the best in 2018. Thank you for all you have done to make this past year a success for us.

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7995 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 • 334.857.3900 www.LakeMartinMiniMall.com 82 LAKE

JANUARY 2018

Game of a lifetime starts with junior league

G

olf is a game that can be enjoyed by all grounds and checking out some of the best talages, all backgrounds and by people ent in the South. from all walks of life. I am honored to Parents, coaches and participants were in take over for my good friend, Lee Williams, awe of the wonderful golf course. We noticed and begin writing an article about golf for you the gratitude all weekend from these players to enjoy each month. Throughout the course and parents. Throughout the 2017 season at of the year, I will write on all things golf, from Willow Point, more than 300 junior golfers instruction to the latest in technology, to the competed on the golf course. newest golf apparel.

The majority of these juniors travelled with This month, I wanted to share some of the their parents, and that brought back memories experiences I have been fortunate to witness of my days as a junior golfer. Those memories last season. from age 12 have always stayed with me, and Junior Golf has really escalated in the past that time in my life molded me into the person PAR for the COURSE I am today.

15 years, just as other youth sports, Little

BY MATT SHEPPARD League baseball and soccer. In the late 90s, A new addition to junior golf has been the junior golfers that resided in the state of launch of the PGA Junior League. This new Alabama could make a full sumprogram was modeled after mer schedule playing events Little League baseball and can around our state and never have be enjoyed by children as young to leave. as 5 years old. Willow Point My comparison of junior golf participated for the first time in to Little League baseball and 2017, and there were some great soccer is the ongoing trend to memories made. compete on travel teams. Years The Junior League is a ago, there were All-Star teams scramble format, which allows in baseball, and that was about children to play in an environit. Now, almost every sport has ment with less pressure, due to an option for children to comhaving a partner. This was fun to pete year round, and youth are watch! The memory that I have encouraged to participate on in my head was a team of two travel teams.

– a 5-year-old and a 6-year-old – It’s almost as if each sport is competing against two 10-yearcompeting against the others. olds. They were playing a threeYouth tournaments provide All sports provide great learnhole match, and after a loss on competitive opportunities ing environments, long-lasting the first hole, the younger guys for young golfers memories, team building and ended up tying the match. This life lessons for all participants. was such a great experience for Youth sports are instrumental in the children. the development of children as they grow into young adults As you can see, there are many avenues for juniors to and then mature into adults. start playing the game. There are many ways for others to The Southeastern Junior Golf Tour is an organization that begin to play the game, too. Most every golf course has runs Junior Golf events throughout the Southeast United some program to engage new golfers, so check with your States. The organization provides great competitive opporlocal PGA professional to inquire. tunities for young golfers around the area.

Golf is enjoyed by so many; it is truly a game of a lifeLast month, Willow Point Golf & Country Club and time – and for a lifetime. After all, you rarely see a group the Lake Martin area hosted the Southeastern Junior Golf of 50-year-old dads strap on helmets and pads and head Tour’s Tournament of Champions. This event featured to the SportPlex on Saturday morning to play football, but junior golfers (ages 13-19) that had won at least one event players of all ages can’t wait to get on the golf course. on the tour this season. Players and parents travelled from as far away as Ohio to compete in this nationally recogMatt Sheppard is a PGA professional at Willow Point nized event. These participants competed over two days and Golf & Country Club. Contact him at 256-329-0835 or were followed by some very notable guests. There were email him at msheppard@russelllands.com. more than 12 Division I collegiate golf coaches roaming the JANUARY 2018

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Legend

63

20

22

280

To Sylacauga

19

Alexander City

Public Boat Ramps 15

9 Churches

7

Camp ASCCA

Flint Hill Church

Camps & Parks

13

Power lines U.S. Highways

3

280

22

County Roads Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek State Park

Pleasant Grove Church

11

COOSA COUNTY

Alex City Boat Ramp

Mt. Zion Church

259 9

128

Russell Farms Baptist Church 63

12 20

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Friendship Church New Hope Church

Liberty Church

Willow Point

24

6

8

Equality

Kowaliga Boat Landing

55

4

Seman

63

Trillium

18 The Ridge

2

The Amp Ko w

ali

14

ga

Ba

y

80

9

Central

90

Union

ELMORE COUNTY Union Church

Red Hill 63

229

Eclectic

Tallassee

16 11

84 LAKE

Union Landing

Children’s Harbor

21

34

Camp Alamisco

9

1 10

Church in The Pines Camp Kiwanis

Paces Point Boat Ramp

Kent

JANUARY 2018

Timbergut Landing

Horseshoe Bend National Park

Jaybird Landing

Lake Martin Alabama Marinas 11. Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

22. The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 33. River North Marina 256-397-1500

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

49

42. Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Jacksons Gap

53. Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

280

Bethel Church

17

Dadeville

57

280

Camp Hill

Smith Landing

4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 16 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Building Supply 17 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 18 4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Loop, Alex City, AL 35010 19 4. Dark Insurance 256-234-5026

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 www.darkinsuranceagency.com

62. Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

. McDaniels Storage Center 20 256-234-4583

1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010

72. Alex City Marine Sales and Service 256-215-3474

2190 Cherokee Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

21 . Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024

Restaurants 8 6. SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 9 Catherine’s Market 6.

256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Pleasant Ridge Church

4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 15 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

Advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map for as little as $25.

Contact us at 256-234-4281 or marketing@alexcityoutlook.com for more information.

10 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 11 Bezlo's Cafe 334-639-0003

65 Main Street., Eclectic, AL 36024

Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters

Stillwaters

Business & Shopping

5

12 Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075 970 Hwy. 63 South, Alex City, AL 35010

Walnut Hill 50 50

13 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481 5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, AL 35010 14 5. Lake Martin Mini Mall 334.857.3900

7995 Kowaliga Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024

49

Reeltown

JANUARY 2018

LAKE 85

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 Longleaf Antiques

86 LAKE

Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot USAmeribank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

CHELSEA Winn-Dixie The Ditsy Daisy Boutique

CHILDERSBURG Piggly Wiggly DADEVILLE

Bay Pine Marina Blue Creek Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foshee's Boat Doc Homeplate Restaurant Harbor Pointe Marina Lakay’s Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Community Hospital Lakeshore Discount Pharmacy Lakeside Marina Niffer's At The Lake Oskar's Cafe Payne Furniture Pearson’s Place Poplar Dawgs Public Library Pug's Place PNC Bank Renfroes Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club

JANUARY 2018

Store 34 USAmeribank

RED HILL Citgo

ECLECTIC Bezlo's Children’s Harbor Cotton’s BBQ Eclectic Do-It Center Johnson’s Furniture Kowaliga Marina Lake Martin Dock Lake Martin Mini Mall Nail’s Convenience Store Peoples Bank

SYLACAUGA Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly

EQUALITY

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star INVERNESS Winn-Dixie Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Arena Tree Top Family Adventure

KELLYTON Five Star Plantation MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market

TALLASSEE Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce Tallassee Automotive The Tallassee Tribune

WALNUT HILL

WETUMPKA The Wetumpka Herald A limited number of magazines are placed at these locations.

To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

Lake Martin Business and Service Directory

COACH KRAFT

UPHOLSTERY Complete Marine Upholstery!

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■ Floors ■ Carpets Bimini Tops ■ Custom Seats ■ Mooring Covers

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OLMAN

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LOOR

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Residential | Commercial | Interior | Exterior OMPANY

Professional!

Trey Callegan

THE PROFESSIONALS”

Area Manager

Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Carpet & Vinyl

256-307-4061

Visit our showroom for samples and a free estimate!

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Paige Patterson

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

LAKE

haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

205-616-8046

334-332-3435 334-391-0759

www.paigepatterson.com

Relax. Enjoy. Lake Martin.

Call to order your subscription 256-234-4281

MAGAZINE

JANUARY 2018

LAKE 87

Our Advertisers n To Join, Call 256.234.4281 A&M Plumbing....................................................... 20

First Baptist Church Alexander City.................. 8

Renaissance Electronics......................................... 8

Advanced Heating & Air........................................ 8

George Hardy D.M.D............................................. 8

Russell Lands...........................28-29, 38-39, 50-51

Alex City Guide Service...................................... 78

Heritage South Credit Union............................ 66

Russell Medical........................................................ 2

Alex City Marine................................................... 20

Hilltop Landscaping............................................... 78

Satterfield.................................................................. 5

Amanda Scroggins, RE/MAX Around the Lake.........13

Hinson Galleries.................................................... 86

Security Pest Control............................................ 8

Angela Smith, RE/MAX Around the Lake...................71

Holley’s Home Furnishings................................. 92

Southern Star Alpaca Farm.............................6, 23

Blue Creek Iron Works....................................... 87

Holman Floor......................................................... 87

SportzBlitz.............................................................. 73

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation....................... 78

Jackson Thornton.................................................. 16

State Farm Insurance/ Harold Cochran..........71

C&T Eclectric.......................................................... 8

Kowaliga Whole Health....................................... 87

State Farm Insurance/ Karen Channell..........71

Cahaba Glass............................................................ 6

Lake Martin Community Hospital..................... 17

Sunrise Dock.......................................................... 12

Central Alabama Community College..... 24-25, 56-57

Lake Martin Dock................................................. 23

Tallassee Community Hospital........................... 20

CertaPro Painters................................................. 87

Lake Martin Machine Gun................................... 23

Temple Medical Center....................................... 57

Coach Kraft Upholstery............................... 41, 87

Lake Martin Mini Mall.......................................... 82

Touchless Boat Covers........................................ 12

Crew Lending......................................................... 87

Lake Martin Tractor and Outdoor...................... 4

Walmart.................................................................. 23

Custom Docks....................................................... 16

Mark King's Furniture.......................................... 69

Wedowee Marine................................................. 21

Damon Story, Cedar Point................................. 81

McGhee Furniture Warehouse.......................... 76

Williams Plumbing Heating & Air........................ 8

DAVCO Development......................................... 87

Moore Wealth Management............................... 91

Wind Creek Casino............................................... 3

Deep Water Dock Services......................... 54, 76

Noel Boone............................................................ 87

WSC Distinctive Builders, LLC......................... 37

Designs by Trish....................................................... 8

Paige Patterson, Lake Martin Voice Realty......87

Young Professionals.............................................. 71

Docks Unlimited..................................................... 5

Prime Management............................................... 75

88 LAKE

JANUARY 2018

JANUARY 2018

LAKE 89

Parting Shot

Carlee Hopping gently demands some personal space from fellow models on Goat Island.

Photo by Kenneth Boone

“I work best when there is adversity: I seem to get calmer the more the fur is flying.” ~ Andrea Arnold

90 LAKE

JANUARY 2018

Advertorial

Enjoy the Holidays – Then Get Organized in January

By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.

Not to worry. Every January, we conduct a workshop at the Alexander City Moore Wealth Management office called Life in a Box. We give you a stepby-step approach to gather all relevant records so they are all contained or referenced in one fire-resistant box. We will conduct the 2018 workshop at noon on Tuesday, January 23rd. For further information and reservations, please call 256.234.2761.

The ten categories we cover in detail include healthcare, estate planning, tax records, investments and bank accounts, liabilities, insurance, military records, personal identification documentation, deeds and similar documents, and a miscellaneous one that covers pet information, house maintenance, etc.

In addition, we go over what to keep where, for example, in a safe

Are your records organized? If something were to happen to you would it be easy for loved ones to take over your affairs or settle your estate?

Would they know where to find all your necessary healthcare information, legal documents, passwords and PINs? Would they know how bills are paid and how sources of income are credited to your bank account? deposit box, fire-resistant box at home, in a file cabinet or with your attorney or financial advisor. For example, it is advisable NOT to keep the only original of your will in your safe deposit box and we will tell you why. Another example is your passport. A copy of the passport should be kept in the safe deposit box, but not the original, and we will tell you why.

We also go over ways to manage technology. If something were to happen to you, loved ones need to be able to access electronic as well as paper records. To do so, they have to know passwords and PINs. We go over electronic means to store passwords and PINs so loved ones can access them in an emergency and help protect you from identity theft.

Make one of your new year’s resolutions to get your records organized. Our workshop and JANUARY 2018

method is designed to help you get your Life in a Box. We make it easy so once organized, it’s easy to keep it that way!.

Susan Clayton Moore, J.D. is a financial advisor and principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc., with offices in Alexander City, Auburn and Montgomery, AL. Managing over $160 million in assets, she has been a financial planner for nearly 35 years. She is affiliated with LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC, the nation’s largest independent broker-dealer* and ranks in the top two percent of their financial advisors based on total production. Contact Susan at 256.234.2761. Email contact is susan@moorewealthmanagement. com. *Based on total revenues, as reported in Financial Planning magazine, June 1996-2017.

Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor.

LAKE 91

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256.234.4141 LAKEAlexander City

334.279.3101 Montgomery JANUARY 2018