Lake Martin Living January 2020

Lake Martin Living People, events and culture in the Lake Region

Dadeville's First Female Police Officer New hunting law stirs controversy Wildcat Entrepreneur Academy

January 2020

www.lakemagazine.life/lakemartinliving

2.75

% HSCU a is Now Offering a 13-Month CD Special!

APR* s Now Offering CD% Special!

APR* 13-Month

2.75

2.75 BUMP UP Over 80 ye Over 80 years of sharing your dreams...

Over 80 years of shari

% HSCU is Now Offering a APR* 13-Month CD Special!

This offer comes with a This offer comesunless with member a one-time • Bumps renew as a 36-month fer comesone-time with a BUMP• RATE otherwise Bumps OFFER renew as a 36-monthindicates unless member BUMP OFFER UMP RATE OFFER • Bump is only available RATE after the first 6-month period with theThis following restrictions: indicates otherwise offer comes with a Bumps is renew as a 36-month unless member •• Bump initiated by written member verification YOUR SAVINGS! • Bump is only available after the firstwith 6-month period llowing restrictions: the following restrictions: one-time BUMP RATE OFFER • Bump rate is the currently effective rate of the indicates otherwise

80 years of sharing your dreams... % dreams...

Your Over 80 years Your Over 80 years of sharing your 2.75 Your Your Your • Bump is initiated by written member verification or same term, no the matching • closest Bump is only available after first 6-month period with the following restrictions:

dreams are important you.

We to see you grow, • Bump rate is the currently effective rate ofwant the ••to not retroactive, but fromverification the date of bump dreams a HSCU is Now Offering aBump 13-Month CD Special!

APR* Bump isisinitiated by written member be h closest or same and term, no be healthy, economically •matching Bump rate is the strong. currently effective rate of the

dreams are important to yo dreams are important• toBump you.

Weretroactive, want tobutsee grow, is not fromyou the date of bump closest or same term, no matching dreams are im When youeconom think dreams are important you.

Weretroactive, want tobutsee you grow, Whenand youeconomically think about it, it makes sense to choose • toBump is not froma thefinancial date of bump be healthy, and be healthy, This offer comesstrong. with a institutio

be healthy institution based right here in ourstrong. community. be healthy, and economically • Bumps renew as a 36-month unless member % 13-Month CD Special! one-time BUMP RATE OFFER indicates otherwise HSCU has invess HSCU has investing in to you and your dreams for you think When about it, been it makes you think about it,been it with makes sense choose a financial When you think • Bump is only available after the first 6-month period the following restrictions: When you think about it, it makes sense to choose institution a financial based right about here This offer comes withright a institution based here in community.

• Bumps renew as a our 36-month unless member institution bas • Bump is initiated by written member verification one-time BUMP RATE OFFER institution indicates otherwise based right here in our community.

• Bump is only available after the first 6-month period • HSCU Bump ratehas is the been currentlyinvesting effective rate ofin theyou and your with the following restrictions: • your Bump is initiated by written memberfor verification HSCU has been investing in een investingHSCU in you and dreams has investing you and your dreams for closest or same term, ofnoa HSCU matching *Limitedbeen time offer APY of 2.79% Percentage Yield(s).

New money deposits only, with the exception term share • Bump rate is the APY(s)-Annual currently in effective rate of the certificate that is maturing.

Minimum opening deposit. Once during the term of the 13 month certificate the Bump rate will match the closest or same term, of no $1000 matching dreams ar dreams are important you.

We want tobut see you grow, important you.

We to see you at grow, • to Bump istonot retroactive, from the date rate currently in• to effect at time bump option is for a dreams closest or are same term certificate.

Unless youwant indicate otherwise, the time of of bump dreams are important you.

Weretroactive, want tobut see grow, myhscu.com Bump is the not fromyou theexercised date of bump maturity, the certificate will be reinvested in the fixed-rate 36 month certificate in effect at that time. Personalstrong. accounts only. Rates, terms and be healthy, and economically be healthy, and economically strong.withdrawal penalties apply and may reduce earnings. Federally insured by NCUA. be he availability are subject to change. Early be 256.245.4776 healthy, and economically strong.

2.75

over 80 years.

Over 80 ye Over 80 years of sharing your dreams...

Over 80 80 years ofyears. sharing your80 dreams...

Over 80 years of sharing your dreams... over over years.

Your Your Your Your HSCU is Now Offering a

APR*

When you think about it, it makes sense to choose a financial When you think about it, it makes sense to choose a financial institution based right here in our community. institution based right here in our community. *Limited time offer APY of 2.79% APY(s)-Annual Percentage Yield(s). New money deposits only, with the exception of a HSCU term share mited time offer APY of 2.79% APY(s)-Annual Percentage Yield(s).

New money deposits only, with the exception of aduring HSCUthe term HSCU has been inshare and your dreams for rate will match the HSCU has been investing in you and your for certificate that is dreams maturing. Minimum of $1000 opening deposit. Once investing term ofyou the 13 month certificate the Bump tificate that is maturing. Minimum of $1000 opening deposit.

Once in during term ofbump the 13 month certificate Bumporrate will match the Unless you indicate otherwise, at the time of rate currently effectthe at the time option is exercised forthe a closest same term certificate. e currently in effect at the time bump option is exercised for a the closest or same term certificate. you36indicate otherwise, at theattime of Personal accounts only. Rates, terms and maturity, certificate will be reinvested in theUnless fixed-rate month certificate in effect that time. turity, the certificate will be reinvested in the fixed-rate 36 montharecertificate effectEarly at that time. Personal Rates,earnings. terms and availability subject to in change. withdrawal penaltiesaccounts apply and only. may reduce Federally insured by NCUA. ailability are subject to change.*Limited Early withdrawal penalties apply and may reduce earnings. Federally insured by NCUA. time offer APY of 2.79% APY(s)-Annual Percentage Yield(s). New money deposits only, with the exception of a HSCU term share certificate that is maturing. Minimum of $1000 opening deposit. Once during the term of the 13 month certificate the Bump rate will match the myhscu.com rate currently in effect at the time bump option is exercised for a closest or same term certificate. Unless you indicate otherwise, at the time of myhscu.com maturity, the certificate will be reinvested in the fixed-rate 36 month certificate in effect at that time. Personal accounts only. Rates, terms and 256.245.4776 availability are subject to change. Early withdrawal penalties apply and may reduce earnings. Federally insured by NCUA. 256.245.4776

over 80 years. When you think a When you think a financial over 80about years. it, it makes sense to choose myhscu.com institution myhscu.com institution based right here in our community.

256.245.4776 HSCU has been investi HSCU has been investing in you256.245.4776 and your dreams for

over 80 years.

B R A N D S TA N DA R D S G U I D E L I N E S *Limited time offer APY of 2.79% APY(s)-Annual Percentage Yield(s). New money deposits only, with the exception of a HSCU term share certificate that is maturing. Minimum of $1000 opening deposit. Once during the term of the 13 month certificate the Bump rate will match the rate currently in effect at the time bump option is exercised for a closest or same term certificate. Unless you indicate otherwise, at the time of maturity, B R AN D S TAN DAR DS G U I DELI Nthe ES certificate will be reinvested in the fixed-rate 36 month certificate in effect at that time. Personal accounts only. Rates, terms and availability are subject to change. Early withdrawal penalties apply and may reduce earnings. Federally insured by NCUA.

myhscu.com 256.245.4776

B R AN D S TAN DAR DS G U I DELI N ES

B R AN D S TAN DAR DS G U I DELI N ES

BR AND STANDAR DS GUIDELINES

2 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 3

From the Editor’s Desk

A

lot can happen in one year. It seems like just yesterday we were turning the calendar to 2019. Time seems to be speeding up, especially when you live in a world of deadlines, and you’re always working ahead (ideally, at least). Sometimes, we in the magazine division at TPI lose track of what month it is.

We are trying to advance in a big way here at Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Our goal is to continually up our game; increase the quality of our products; try new things; and be a valuable resource for our readers by highlighting positive aspects of the community.

Let’s start the year out by exploring the Wildcat Entrepreneur Academy program and applauding the ambitious, dedicated students who take part.

On page 10, read about the innovative class that allows Benjamin Russell High School students to pursue their own businesses; be mentored by community leaders; learn how to be successful; and engage life skills to advance whatever future paths they choose.

Through this program, students have the opportunity to pursue a future they may not have ever considered. This is the same sense of enlightenment Kalie Abbett had when she started working with the Jackson’s Gap police reserves and realized she wanted a career in law enforcement.

That being said, I am proud to present Abbett, Dadeville Police Department’s first female officer. While she is as humble as she can be, I personally feel as though it’s a huge milestone. As this year marks the 100th anniversary of Women’s Suffrage it is noteworthy that Abbett recognizes she is on the same playing field as her co-workers and deserves to be treated as such. Read more about this caring, yet bold, officer and her journey into law enforcement on page 26.

It’s also fitting that Abbett is an avid hunter, as we take a look into the new hunting-over-bait law that came into affect last May. I spent some time researching the law and asking some local hunters their personal views.

The pros and cons are broken down for our readers on page 16, along with Scott Railey’s recommendation for a healthier, natural alternative to bait.

On page 20, Fletcher Scott discusses the negative health affects that feeding deer corn and bait could have on the herd.

If you’re looking to purchase your own hunting land, we’ve re-printed an excerpt from Tom Brinkman’s e-book, Buying Rural Land: Tips and Howto’s with a checklist on important tips for choosing the perfect property.

Turn to page 34 to learn more.

Oh and be on the lookout for some Alexander City natives on TV. Kimberly and Dan McClellan were chosen as the Alabama representatives for the new TLC 10-episode series Say Yes to the Dress America that premiered earlier this month. Read more on page 30.

As we roll into the New Year, keep your eyes and ears open for those fascinating community stories. I can’t be everywhere, so don’t hesitate to let me know what’s going on or who’s doing something exciting. Email me at amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com. I’d love to hear from you!

Amy Passaretti, Editor

4 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Editor Amy Passaretti Contributors Kenneth Boone Dave Jennings Shane Harris Cliff Williams Lizi Arbogast Lacey Howell Gabrielle Jansen Santana Wood Susan Foy Teresa Grier Tom Brinkman Fletcher Scott Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Katie Wesson Marilyn Hawkins Julie Harbin Andy Carr Digital Services Kat Raiford Elle Fuller Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com

Lake Martin Living is published monthly

by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-2344281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

Lake Martin Living 5

ON THE COVER

DESIGNS

BY TRISH - Custom Bedding - Draperies & Upholstery - Blinds & Shades

Find us on Facebook!

Kalie Abbett became the first female police officer at the Dadeville Police Department.

She graduated from the Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy in Anniston last July after learning the ropes for two years in the Jackson’s Gap police reserves. When not working, Abbett is an avid hunter and fisher.

Photo by Kenneth Boone

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Services • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing Candi Tate, Clinical Liaison

2334 Washington Street, Alexander City | 256-329-9061 | www.crownehealthcare.com

Dr. George W. Hardy General Dentistry

6 Lake Martin Living

FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

16. NEW HUNTING LAW STIRS CONTROVERSY Pros and cons to baiting privilege license

9. AROUND THE AREA

20. HUNTING DEER OVER BAIT Supplemental feeding could adversely affect wildlife

14. MEDICAL NEWS

26. DRIVEN TO SERVE Dadeville's first female officer advocates for accuracy and honesty 30. ALEXANDER CITY NATIVES SAY 'I DO' ON NEW TV SERIES Local couple chosen as Alabama representatives for Say Yes to the Dress America 34. THE DOZEN DOS Experienced forester shares tips for buying rural land

30

Dan and Kimberly McClellan were married in Central Park, New York City, on a TLC-hosted TV show.

10. BUSINESS MATTERS 15. MONEY MATTERS 22. GARDEN TALK 25. FROM THE TEE 36. OH SNAP! 40. LAKE REGION EVENTS 50. CULTURE SHOCK

Brian King, M.D.

Stacy Davidson, CRNP

Rob Gathings, M.D.

Surgical Dermatology Group is pleased to announce the opening of our new office in Alexander City, located in the Professional Office Building on the Russell Medical Center campus. Dermatology appointments are available Monday through Thursday with Stacy Davidson, CRNP, as well as Brian King, MD and Rob Gathings, MD who have recently joined Surgical Dermatology Group.

Call us to schedule your annual skin check!

lakemartindock.com For more information visit us online or call

334.857.2443

8 Lake Martin Living

AROUND THE AREA

Branding to highlight area as a tourist destination New signage, graphics and other plans for the branding of Alexander City and the Lake Martin area as a tourism destination will be unveiled soon in a celebratory launch event, said Main Street Alexander City Director Stacey Jeffcoat.

The City of Alexander City, the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Alexander City and the Lake Martin Tourism Board have worked together for more than six months to develop the concept. The need came about last April as part of a Resource Refresh provided by Main Street Alabama.

“We formed a steering committee of all these organizations to work on this branding concept,” Jeffcoat explained. “This is the first time that we’ve teamed up like this to create a plan for moving the area forward. It’s a strong partnership with a united message about the positive aspects of the community and a course of action for how to share this great community with visitors.”

The plan, Jeffcoat said, not only pays homage to the city’s past but also builds toward its future as a tourist destination on Lake Martin.

The steering committee worked with a Arnette, Muldrow & Associates branding organization to choose a color palette, fonts, graphics and sign shapes for wayfinding and promotion of local places and events. This will provide a cohesive look for websites, signage, newsletters and visual elements.

“We’re sending a united message of local pride.

At no time in the past have we ever done that. It’s exciting, and it’s different than any of the approaches that any of these organizations have taken before this,” Jeffcoat said.

Plans for the reveal will be announced in Alexander City’s newspaper, The Outlook, and on lakemagazine. life. ~ Staff report

Harrelson's memory lives on with locals

Time to Renew

The Friends of Horseshoe Bend want to remind the public to renew memberships to its nonprofit organization that supports Horseshoe Bend National Military Park for 2020. The membership runs a calendar year, and dues support living history programs, teacher education activities, student visits and site research at the park.

For news and events at the park, visit the Horseshoe Bend National Military Park Facebook page or email friendsofhorseshoebend@gmail.com.

To renew a membership or join, visit friendsofhorseshoeJoin the Team bend.org. The memMembership to HBNMP supports bership also could programs like be mailed to P.O. living history Box 865, Dadeville demonstrations. AL 36853.

The City of Dadeville is mourning the loss of one of its own, as councilmember H. A. “Dick” Harrelson, 86, died last month.

Never missing a day of work or meetings, love for the Dadeville community and honesty are what friends and former co-workers will remember most about Dick Harrelson.

“He was our leader,” Smith said.

“He was our steady force. I referred to him as my senior councilman, but he was a lot more than that to me. He loved Dadeville more than I do.”

Dadeville City Clerk Debbie Minor said Harrelson visited her office every day and was very involved in the city.

“There wasn’t any task that he was given that he didn’t go in it full speed ahead and get it done,” said Minor, who referred to Harrelson as a good friend and mentor.

Harrelson graduated from Dadeville High School in the 1950s

and served on Lasting Legacy the city counDick Harrelson cil for three will be remembered years. He will for his impact be remembered on the for his work community. at Dadeville Quarterback Club, Dadeville City Council, Tallapoosa County Board of Education – where he never missed a meeting over his eight years serving – and his 44 years as a sales manager for McKelvey Chevrolet.

“He was a stalwart in the community. We’re going to miss him.

He’ll never be forgotten. I know I’ll never forget him,” said Smith. ~ Gabrielle Jansen Lake Martin Living 9

Wildcat Entrepreneur Academy Students collaborate with community leaders to learn real-life business skills STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS COURTESY OF JACOB MEACHAM, CAMERON TOLBERT, MADISON FULLER & TYLER WATTS

W

ith a growing interest to “be your own boss,” students at Benjamin Russell High School are offered the unique opportunity to learn the ins and outs of entrepreneurship.

Younger generations can take advantage of the Wildcat Entrepreneur Academy, a yearlong program concentrating on the fundamentals of business.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for our local students and one that really highlights the partnership between the chamber, the Alexander City School System and our business community,” said Jacob Meacham, vice president of business development for Alexander City Chamber of Commerce.

The Wildcat Entrepreneur Academy is under the supervision of the chamber, which is fitting with its mission. Two parts of its five-year strategic plan focus on a partnership with education and promoting entrepreneurship as a prong of economic development.

“We want to foster a community of entrepreneurs.

10 Lake Martin Living

We’re laying the foundation of learning a business plan, marketing, public speaking, and there is real money on the line. We’ve given them the tools that no matter where they go, they will be helpful,” said Ed Collari, president and CEO of Alexander City Chamber of Commerce.

The WEA is open to students in grades nine through 12, as part of Mandi Durr’s entrepreneur class at BRHS. The objective is to educate students on how to run their own real businesses, concluding the semester with business plan presentations in front of a panel of investors with the hopes of receiving startup funds.

“I had already started my baking business, so by doing this program I finally got enough profit to be able to get things going with business cards, signage, etc.,” said Madison Fuller, owner of MG Bakes, a low-carb, keto and diabetic-friendly bakery. “The feeling of success when I walked in front of the judging panel was great. I ended up getting what I wanted, which is really the most accomplished feeling.”

BUSINESS MATTERS

Fuller began baking with her grandmother when she experts in their fields, such as finance, Be Your Own Boss was little but began researching diabetic-friendly treats marketing and public speaking.

Left: The 2019 when both of her parents were diagnosed with diabetes.

“Every student who completes the WEA students “Eventually I’d like to have a storefront and convert program, regardless of where they’re with the panel back into regular sweets but still offer the diabetic ones headed after high school, is on a good of judges; Top: as well,” she said. trajectory because of this experience Local business The entrepreneur class begins with about 24 students and having really challenged owner Mark and from August to December, students decide if they themselves,” said Meacham.

Gilliland (right) mentors Will will move forward to the second semester. Usually Once students have a pretty solid Jackson on his about 10 students choose to business proposal last participate in the academy, plan in place, “Nothing is handed to you. We year. and Meacham said he wants to they are will help out, but the student does cap the maximum at about 12. paired with “Nothing is handed to all the work. We want people who a mentor in the community you. We will help out, but the to help solidify the details and will represent the program well student does all the work. prepare them for the investor Those expectations often weed and interface with the community panel, which is made up of some people out. We want local business leaders. and local businesses people who will represent the “The mentorships involve in a professional way.” program well and interface someone from the business with the community and local community going into the businesses in a professional high school for six to seven way,” said Meacham. weeks and working one-onDuring the class, students one with students. They help take field trips to local businesses run by entrepreneurs fine tune their plans and get them prepared to pitch their and also are presented with guest speakers who are ideas. These community members are giving their time,

~Jacob Meacham

Lake Martin Living 11

Success Story knowledge, connections, and

experience and learning to work with investors and that’s really what makes this bankers and accountants,” said Watts. “I really got a feel program tick,” said Meacham. for what it takes to run a business, and it’s a whole lot Cameron Tolbert, a more than I expected. If you want to own a business one sophomore at University day, I would say definitely give this class a shot.” of Alabama, completed Watts and Morgan no longer operate Lake Martin the Wildcat Entrepreneur Woodcrafts, which is one struggle many graduates face Academy in 10th grade after when heading off to college. The resources just aren’t Durr really encouraged him available in a college setting to carry out certain jobs. to move forward with it.

“No matter what direction these students take, if you He also credits a lot of his success to his mentor Kevin come back to this community, there are people and Speaks, assistant vice president at Valley Bank. resources here to support you and help you achieve your “I didn’t even have a business idea when I started, goals,” said Collari. but Mrs. Durr told me to do it Meacham added that the anyway. I loved the mentorship; chamber and mentors continue “Now I know I want to be Mr. Kevin was a great mentor to support students after the my own boss. I probably would program has ended, and his goal and helped me finalize my business plan. I won the second is that at least one to three of have never gotten to where I most amount of money,” said them will succeed locally. am now without joining the Tolbert.

The total available funding Wildcat Academy – at least not pool to be split ranges from While his original proposal of a car tire gadget fell through, $6,000 to $9,000 each year, this early in life.”

Meacham let Tolbert propose a and the mission of the investor new plan to the panel to find a panel is to disburse those funds different way to use the granted accordingly. funds. He ended up creating “Every student has gotten Tolbert’s Elite Mobile Detailing, which is still in business some form of funding through the program. They today. request a certain amount for their start-up needs, and “It’s pretty successful, and now I know I want to be my the panel decides if they should be allotted that amount. own boss. I probably would have never gotten to where I Everyone gets rewarded, but it’s not always to the extent am now without joining the Wildcat Academy – at least they want,” said Meacham. “The idea and commitment not this early in life,” said Tolbert. has to warrant that funding.”

Some students choose to collaborate their skills and The program leaders then work with each student work together toward a business plan. Tyler Watts and as they determine the best way to allocate the money.

Drew Morgan are a prime example of this partnership.

Meacham said the chamber can either purchase things Watts’ skills in construction paired with Morgan’s people directly for them or they can bring back receipts and be skills made Lake Martin Woodcrafts a success. reimbursed. Students don’t just receive a lump sum of “For me, the biggest aspect was the business money; they are advised on how to best spend it.

Top Left: Cameron Tolbert presents his original idea for a tire gadget; Top Right: Tolbert changed his proposal to a detailing business, which is still successful today.

~Cameron Tolbert

12 Lake Martin Living

Tours and Tips

Top: Students present their business proposals in front of a panel of judges, in a Shark Tank format; Left: Community leaders, such as Lindsay Meacham (right) work closely with participants to finalize their plans.

“After the investor panel, the students get feedback, thoughts and advice from the individuals who did the judging,” said Meacham.

The WEA is into its fifth year and was originally part of the nationally run Young Entrepreneurs Academy.

When that contract ended after three years, the chamber realized it could support the program on its own.

“It’s a serious class. You have to go in with the mindset of, ‘Ok I need to sit down and really pay attention to what’s going on and learn from it.’ It’s not something you should take for granted,” said Watts, a sophomore at Auburn University.

Raining Dogs_Magazine Ad_123019_FINAL-Prin.indd 1

12/30/19 10:39 AM Lake Martin Living 13

New Year, New Opportunities

T

he dawn of a new decade is upon us, and as we of Directors, said he believes the relationship with UAB will close the chapter of a dynamic year, we look enable RM to leverage its programs, services and resources ahead with anticipation. We will forge new to assist area residents in achieving their highest levels of relationships and grow services available in health and wellness.

Tallapoosa County.

“As a part of UAB Health System, we can pool resources On Jan. 1, Russell Medical entered into a management and work together to adapt to the continuously changing agreement and became a member of the UAB Health healthcare environment as a part of their network of System, following action by the respective boards of both facilities,” said Neighbors. “We are a cornerstone healthcare organizations in November 2019. provider for the Lake Martin area, and we feel strongly Russell Medical joins other Alabama that this relationship will enable us to provide hospitals as part of the UAB Health System, enhanced services with more cost-efficient which includes UAB Hospital, UAB Highlands operations.”

Hospital, UAB Callahan Eye Hospital; Russell Medical will continue to be owned management relationships at Medical West, by its parent company, Medical Park Inc., and Baptist Health Montgomery, John Paul Jones, Russell Medical will employ its staff, with no LV Stabler and Bryan W. Whitfield hospitals; anticipated changes in benefits or salaries. along with affiliate relationships with three Physicians seeing patients at Russell Medical additional hospitals in the state. will continue to do so.

“Russell Medical and the UAB Health “As the flagship health enterprise in the state, System have a lot to offer each other,” said UABHS has significant resources and expertise Will Ferniany, Ph.D., CEO of the UAB Health that will be available to RM,” said Don Lilly, System. “Both parties bring strengths and UABHS senior vice president for network assets that will improve health care in the Lake development. “We will now be able to offer Martin region.” the knowledge, insights and support of our The UAB Health System now has institution to RM in what is truly a win-win Susan Foy representation on the Russell Medical Board for both hospitals, but more importantly, a win of Directors and will work in collaboration for the people of Alexander City, Tallapoosa with the directors and the existing management team.

County and across the state of Alabama who rely on us.”

Under the agreement, UABHS will assist in many of the In other news, Russell Medical welcomes pediatrician business aspects of hospital operations, including supply Dr. Chante’ Ruffin to the medical staff. Dr. Ruffin has chain logistics, revenue cycle management and compliance opened Heritage Pediatrics in Suite 108 of the Professional issues. UAB also will help with clinical resources – such as Building. She will host an open house on Jan. 20 from 2 assistance in physician recruiting and staffing. p.m. to 4 p.m. and welcome the public to visit the office and Russell Medical has been a strategic affiliate of UAB for meet the staff. years, participating in cancer and telemedicine networks, Once again, Total Fitness will serve as a weigh-in site for along with outreach in a number of medical specialties, Scale Back Alabama, a free statewide weight-loss campaign including cardiovascular care, urology and surgery. designed to encourage Alabamians to get healthy, lose “We have a long history with UAB that has served weight and have fun while doing it. Weigh-in week is Jan. this hospital and the residents of Alexander City and 20 to 24. There is no annual contract for gym membership, the surrounding area well,” said Jim Peace, CEO of and varied exercise classes and personal training sessions Russell Medical. “The new management agreement only are offered. For more information, contact Cara Tidwell, strengthens that relationship and will help ensure Russell fitness coordinator, at 256 -329-7624. continues to deliver the exceptional medical care that our community expects.” ~ Susan Foy is the marketing director for Russell Medical.

Hugh Neighbors III, chair of the Russell Medical Board

Medical News

14 Lake Martin Living

Are you financially secure?

T

aking steps toward financial security ranks high among New Year’s resolutions. And that’s a good goal to have.

A recent report from Financial Health Network states that just 29 percent of Americans were financially healthy. I wanted to share three goals – or resolutions – that could work to improve financial health in 2020.

1. Eliminate credit card debt.

According to a 2019 NerdWallet study, the average U.S. household carries $6,849 in credit card debt. With average interest rates approaching 19 percent, many families’ interest Teresa Grier payments can quickly snowball into several hundred and even thousands of dollars per year.

Many people find it helpful to consolidate debt onto one card or payment. Some focus on paying the card with the highest interest rate first. And others find that paying off the smallest bill first is the most gratifying. The method that works for each person will depend on his or her personality, but the best way to tackle credit card debt is to set and stick to a budget.

Budgets should help people see how much money they’re putting toward their principal and interest each month. Don’t forget to make paying credit card bills a high priority when setting a budget, not an “if-we-have-any-money-left-over” item.

2. Start or grow an emergency fund. Experts encourage families to save somewhere between three to six months’ worth of expenses in an emergency fund. We often see customers who have an emergency fund but haven’t increased it over the years as their family budgets and needs have changed.

It can seem like a daunting savings goal to calculate six months of expenses. We recommend starting small. Having even one months’ salary in savings can save many families from

MONEY MATTERS

eviction or a late mortgage payment.

The second biggest challenge is putting that emergency fund somewhere you won’t be tempted to spend it. Online banking allows customers to track multiple checking and savings accounts and easily set up recurring transfers between them with the same login account.

This makes it easy to transfer money into a savings account specifically for an emergency fund, so it’s “out of sight, out of mind.” Many customers also consider things like money market accounts with a guaranteed APY of 1.5 percent as a great safe savings vehicle for their emergency funds, so they can earn some interest.

3. Start, or get on track with, your retirement savings. No matter what stage of life a person is in, saving for retirement should be a priority for everyone’s financial goals.

Owning a home and calculating Social Security benefits are certainly one piece of the puzzle, but with Americans living longer into their retirement years, chances are most people need to supplement that with some form of additional retirement savings.

A great place to start is if an employer offers a retirementmatch contribution. For those that don’t take advantage of matching contribution offers, it’s like leaving that percentage of a salary on the table. There are investment options outside of employer-sponsored plans, and an IRA is a common tool that allows people to invest either before or after taxes.

There is no single right or wrong way to save for retirement – some families prefer mutual funds, some invest in real estate.

The important thing is to start somewhere and talk to a professional for advice on what savings vehicles are the best fit for your situation. ~ Teresa Grier is a branch manager for Valley Bank in Alexander City. She has been banking in the area for 35 years.

Contact her at 256- 329-7446 or visit valley.com for more information.

Lake Martin Living 15

16 Lake Martin Living

New hunting law stirs controversy STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE & COURTESY OF SCOTT RAILEY

Lake Martin Living 17

O

n May 7, 2019, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed into a law a bill that allows hunters on privately owned or leased land to purchase baiting privilege licenses that make it legal to hunt feral pigs and white-tailed deer with the aid of bait.

While the verdict is still out on how this will affect the deer population, hunters are now entangled in a controversy of the unwritten ethics of deer hunting, along with the health of wildlife.

While the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has been opposed to such legislation for years, this year they made an exception, since the Legislature added specific language that allows the ADCNR the authority to manage not only baiting, but also supplemental feeding of wildlife in the case of disease outbreak.

“Bill sponsors met with us and took our recommendations to add this statement, which ultimately made us a stronger department,” said Chuck Sykes, ADCNR Wildlife and Fisheries director. “Previously, if chronic wasting disease would have come to the state, even though it would be illegal to hunt over bait, it’s still legal to feed wildlife 365 days of the year, so we did not have any control over that.”

The decision to hunt using bait is still at the discretion of the hunter, but those that choose to do so must purchase a bait-privilege license and renew it each year when it expires on Aug. 31. The license costs $15 for residents and $51 dollars for non-residents. It’s sold through any outlet that sells hunting licenses and online at outdooralabama.com.

“There are no exemptions either. If you hunt over feed, you have to buy that annual license,” said Sykes.

The money collected from the sale of the licenses will continue to aid the ADCNR’s Game and Fish fund.

“Nobody’s tax dollars go to us to provide services. The only way we make money is by selling hunting and fishing

18 Lake Martin Living

licenses,” said Sykes.

The Pittman-Robertson Act of 1937 places an excise tax on gun and ammunition manufacturers, and the ADCNR receives a portion of that money based on the number of hunting licenses sold.

“Since the baiting license passed, exempt hunters who want to hunt over bait must purchase a license, therefore we can also count them as hunters, allowing us to receive a larger portion of the pie,” Sykes added.

Some feel that the use of bait is an unethical technique and also cheapens the skills needed for hunting.

Woody Baird, owner of The Sure Shot in Alexander City, is on the fence about the new law sinc he sells corn, supplemental protein and feeders but personally does not agree with it.

“There are two sides to this double-edged sword. People want to buy it, so there’s a supply demand,” he said. “But people can just dump out bags of corn, and that’s not good for the health of wildlife.”

Baird recommends spreading only a small amount of corn out at a time, if choosing to spread feed or using a feeder that controls the corn supply.

Also, Baird said, people need to be feeding deer year round to grow the herd.

“Feeding falsely supports the deer population, but when the food is taken away, it hurts them,” said Baird. “If you put out a high-protein supplement, Hunting Over Bait it will fuel health for the does.

Previous Pages: A When the bucks are chasing, hunting camp in they’re not eating, so feeding Tallapoosa County; them strengthens them up.”

Below: Deer Before the current deer season congregating could in Alabama, it was illegal to hunt more easily lead to the within 100 yards of a deer feeder, spread of diseases.

Natural Ecosystem and the feeder couldn’t be seen

the beans climb the corn stalk and any bean/pea is a legume, from the hunter’s position. Under which provides nitrogen back into the ground. The squash the new law, a hunter can put a will spread out and shadow the ground, creating a natural feeder anywhere to attract deer, herbicide and keeping moisture in the ground,” Railey with the baiting privilege license. explained.

Hunting over bait brings up all He personally adds peas to the mix, creating a four sisters’ kinds of controversy, often within system. It grows into a beautiful green jungle, he said, and it’s individual hunting clubs where a man and wildlife mix. some members would like to “Wildlife not only love it for the food but also for the use bait and cover,” he said. others do not. If anyone does, it changes This patch farm mentality is a better, LEGAL BAIT HUNTING the deer movement patterns for every healthier way for wildlife to feed and also Arizona member of the club. Since all hunters provides for personal consumption and Kansas and fishermen tend to keep their best crops to sell.

Upper Michigan only New Jersey “honey holes” to themselves, a hunter In the early fall, Railey said, he mows Utah (exceptions) who doesn’t want to hunt over bait may parallel strips through the field and Washington (exceptions) find himself doing so by stumbling onto plants wheat and clover in those strips.

West Virginia (exceptions) another hunter’s secret bait location.

“Not a lot of people do that, but it’s a Wisconsin (some counties) The new law making hunting new way of feeding wildlife and farming LEGAL over bait legal has also brought new for wildlife,” he said.

ON PRIVATE LAND ONLY discussion about what exactly “bait” As a result of this system, Railey said, Arkansas means. Planting winter wheat, rye grass, this year he killed the largest deer he’s Connecticut clover or other crops that stay green all seen on his property. The ecosystem Delaware Florida winter is a long-standing legal method also is appealing for rabbits, and most Georgia of attracting deer and changing deer recently, quail, he said.

Kentucky movement patterns in Alabama, as is Railey and Kathy also grow heirloom Louisiana using scents, such as acorn, persimmon corn, which has more sugar and more Maryland Mississippi or doe in estrus. There are the scores of protein than modern varieties. When the New Hampshire commercially marketed deer food-based corn dries up, the deer devour it, he said.

North Carolina products like Deer Cane, C’Mere Deer, “If you farm for wildlife, you don’t North Dakota Stump Likker and Acorn Rage or salt need to go pour corn on the ground,” Ohio Oklahoma and mineral licks like Trophy Rock that said Railey.

Pennsylvania (some counties) can attract deer and change their natural Also, fawns recognize the area as South Carolina movement patterns. home and a source of food due to genetic Texas Local agriculturist, certified crop imprinting, so they know it’s a safe place advisor and farmer Scott Railey believes year round. in feeding wildlife but in a more natural way.

“So if someone really enjoys hunting, they can do this and He and wife, Kathy, live on a small two-acre farm near you’ll have more does and where you have more does, you Hackneyville where he practices the ancient agricultural have more bucks,” he said. technique known as three sisters. By planting corn, beans Despite the pros and cons and personal opinions, hunting and squash together, the three food crops benefit each over bait is still a choice and not mandated of hunters, said other and the entire plot enhances the natural biological Sykes. ecosystem.

For more information about the baiting privilege license, “Native Americans did it for centuries. The corn grows up; visit outdooralabama.com.

Top Left: Scott Railey uses the three-sisters farming technique to feed wildlife and his family; Top Right: Matt Railey shows off his kill on Railey Farms near Hackneyville.

Lake Martin Living 19

Hunting over Bait

Supplemental feeding could adversely affect wildlife STORY BY FLETCHER SCOTT & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

W

ith the recent passage of a statewide supplemental feeding law, Alabama deer hunters may now use bait to attract deer while hunting.

This practice is a complete reversal of past baiting laws or use of corn as an attractant. I can recall a time when the use of corn as bait would put you in the lowest class of outlaws. This struck me as very ironic since I hunted in Georgia at the time where we baited, mainly for hogs, all legally. But, times they are a-changing.

At this particular point in wildlife history, studies have shown that congregating deer in an unnatural feeding area could have detrimental effects on their populations. Alabama’s deer population may be faced with a serious disease that should concern all deer hunters: chronic wasting disease.

This disease is a neurological disorder caused by a mis-folded protein called a prion. All mammals produce normal prions that are used by cells. When these normal prions come in contact with diseased prions, it causes the normal prions to take a unique shape by folding into abnormal shapes. Since 20 Lake Martin Living

these abnormally shaped prions can’t be broken down, they accumulate in the lymph and nervous tissue, including the brain. It is invariably fatal, and there is no cure or treatment.

It is also highly contagious. It can be transmitted by direct contact with infected animals or indirectly by contact with infected materials such as salvia, urine, feces and the soil where dead carcass have lain. As you can imagine, congregating animals in common feeding areas, such as those found around deer feeders, allows a lot of contact among a large numbers of animals, some of which may be infected with CWD. The urinesoaked soil, saliva, grass, food and feces dropped extensively in the area

Deer Season are all potential sources of infection. Another cruel

twist about this disease is that infected animals don’t usually show any recognizable symptoms until at least 16 months, with the average being about two years.

No cases of CWD have been found in Alabama, but it has been recorded in 25 other states, including northern Mississippi and Tennessee. No case of human or livestock disease has ever been reported linked to CWD. CWD is not the only disease that can be transmitted by artificially congregating large numbers of deer in a common area. In a well-known study in Michigan, researchers proved that bovine tuberculosis among white-tailed deer was directly related to supplemental feeding stations. While this disease progresses slowly in deer and isn’t always fatal, it has been shown in at least one incident that this bacteria could infect humans.

Scientist also found that ingestion of large amounts of grain carbohydrates could kill the necessary bacteria for digestion found in a deer’s rumen (series of stomachs). A condition called lactic acidosis results. This can result in bloating, diarrhea, enteritis and even death. These conditions occur annually in Michigan and Wisconsin where it has been observed in deer congregating around cattle feedlots.

Another serious infection could come from a group of carcinogenic molds known as aflatoxins. These are found naturally in the soil and in almost all grains that slowly decompose after harvest. Grain (corn) stored in humid conditions could greatly increase in aflatoxins from harvest to feeding time. These toxins cause liver damage, blood clotting interference, cancer and immune system dysfunction. This usually results in deer picking up a secondary infection, such as blue tongue or other epizootic hemorrhagic diseases.

All of the diseases I have mentioned can be grouped into an ecological category known as density dependent factors. These factors are directly related to the density of the population. In this case, deer gathered in crowded areas around feeders.

If supplemental feeding is used to replace wildlife food plots, which allows animals to browse and graze over a larger area for nutrition, then we are substituting a poor form of nutrition for one that is healthy, nutritious and more natural to deer. Remember, the edges of the fields are also very nutritious.

Hunters must purchase a bait privilege license, which costs $15. Additionally, The Pittman-Robertson Act backs the money they make with a three-to-one payoff. This is a potential moneymaker for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Personally, I just can’t believe the long-term use of feeding deer corn is good for the resource that we want to stay healthy and viable as a big game animal that means so much to sport hunting.

While I can’t know the final effect of years of feeding, I do know that the downside of this practice is fraught with potential problems. Only time will tell.

Left: Large green fields are abundant in Tallapoosa County; Below: Corn and supplemental feed is being used to hunt and attract deer.

How to sample for CWD The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is increasing Chronic Wasting Disease sampling surveillance efforts in northwest Alabama. This test to determine the presence of CWD requires a portion off the deer’s brainstem and lymph nodes.

The Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries is asking hunters to submit harvested deer for testing at check stations.

They can either bring in a whole deer, field-dressed deer or just the head from a harvested animal. Hunters should call ahead, so a biologist is available to collect the sample.

Locations close to Alexander City: • 1301 Quarry Rd., Sylacauga 256-249-3090 • 2458 county Road 88, Waverly 334-501-2411 • 600 S. 7th St. Opelika USDA Service Center • Any WFF office Procedures: • Remove head from carcass, leaving 4 to 6 inches of neck • Remove antlers from bucks – antlers can be removed with skull plate or can be removed at the base of each antler • Place head in plastic bag and tie closed • Complete all sections of biological sample tag • Remove and retain receipt portion • Attach upper portion of biological sample tag to plastic bag using a zip tie • Place tagged bag in freezer If results not received within three to four weeks, call 334242-3469.

Some information from this article came from alabamawildlife.org.

Lake Martin Living 21

Stop the F

or 19-and-half years, I have served as an Extension agent with the mission to educate people and provide research-based information. As a horticulturist, one thing that really gripes me each winter is seeing crapemyrtles all across the area being pruned incorrectly – butchered back and abused.

Why, why, why?

Each year, many tall, beautiful crapemyrtles are being reduced to nothing but ugly stubs. This improper pruning technique has been coined “Crape Murder,” as once described by Southern Living Magazine and involves improperly and severely pruning back crapemyrtles from tree form to shrub form.

Much of the problem lies in the false belief that crapemyrtles must be pruned – like it is some sort of annual ritual. Whacking back crapemyrtles to about 4 feet high to leave only the three to five main trunks is an ugly and foolish habit. I am not sure how the trend started, maybe in the ’60s or ’70s, but it is not a recommended and taught horticulture practice.

tree, you would be outraged.

The other common excuse is plant selection and location. Crapemyrtles are commonly planted near houses and buildings without visualizing and understanding that this little tree is going to grow bigger than expected. Crapemyrtles are small trees, not shrubs as some might want to believe, and varieties can range from 18 inches to 30 feet tall. Planting them 3 or 4 feet away from the side of a wall becomes a costly mistake years later.

Uh oh! It’s growing into the side of the house, onto the roof and hiding the window.

Garden Talk

Now what?

It’s too big to move. So the crutch then becomes: Get the saw out and annually prune this small tree back to an ugly bush. Why the crapemyrtle gets such abuse I will never understand. Pruning should not be an excuse for poor plant selection.

Yes, crapemyrtles do bloom on new wood or spring growth. This fact may historically be the real culprit to all this pruning madness Shane Harris – a theory to prune for more flowers. But major pruning in the winter will not help or force crapemyrtles to bloom more. The only way to stimulate more summer flowering and promote Stop it NOW! a smaller second flush of blooms is to tip-prune – called Please stop doing it and quit paying landscape deadheading – the old blossoms at the ends of the professionals to do it. If someone did that to a dogwood branches as they fade in late summer. A crapemyrtle that 22 Lake Martin Living

Madness! is not blooming well may be getting too much shade and should be moved to another area to get more direct sunlight. Variety selection can also dictate flowering patterns.

Crapemyrtles are one of the most popular landscape plants because of their colorful summer blooms and their thin, paper-like bark that peels away to reveal smooth cinnamon brown trunks; however, a crapemyrtle’s landscape value can be dramatically reduced when its trunk and branches are severely disfigured. I am telling you now that crapemyrtles do not need to be pruned each year. In fact they look fantastic if left alone to grow and mature gracefully.

Negative Pruning Effects

The negative effects of harsh pruning outweigh any positives. Proof is in the science. Extensive pruning or cutting crapemyrtles back each year only causes them to vigorously grow back what was removed. The new mass growth of limbs is weak and spindly and presents an outof-balance shape. Cutting them back each year to the same spot, say 4 to 5 feet off the ground, also causes disfigured scarring and ugly knots. It is a crying shame to see a mature multi-trunked crapemyrtle reduced to resemble four legs of a barstool. That is not a work of art.

Research has shown that repetitive Crape Murder of crapemyrtles also causes the start of numerous suckers to grow from its base each year, then require pruning out. Yep. Basically one harsh incorrect pruning will lead to a lifetime of laborsome pruning. The only recommended pruning

each year is to remove suckers and to maintain its attractive shape by removing deadwood and seedpods.

Early training and shaping will help eliminate any extensive pruning later on.

Don't Overprune

Whacking back crapemyrtles to leave only three or five main trunks creates an eyesore and is not recommended.

Proper Pruning Process

There are valid circumstances where pruning might be needed. If a crapemyrtle needs to be pruned, do it only during the middle-to-late winter once the leaves have fallen and the tree is completely dormant. As a rule of thumb to pruning crapemyrtles: Don’t cut to see over it.

Cut to see through it.

Remember that crapemyrtles are trees and are suppose to get tall; however, by shaping the tree, removing the lower limbs and having only three to five main trunks, the crapemyrtle will have a more attractive and formal appearance.

Before pruning, imagine the final size and form of the crapemyrtle. Begin pruning by starting at the base of the plant and cutting away all suckers that may have developed; then, move up the tree and remove all small, spindly twigs from the main trunks. Removing these small twigs will allow the smooth showy bark to be seen and for more air circulation among the trunks, which helps prevent diseases.

If the tree is young and hasn’t been pruned before, select no more than three to five of the straighter, Lake Martin Living 23

Leave Them Be thicker stems to become

the tree’s main trunks. The selected trunks need to be evenly spaced, not touching or rubbing each other, and should fan outward in a vase shape.

If some limbs are too large for loppers or pruning shears, a pruning saw will be required.

Next, move on up the trunk and remove any large branches under 3 feet high. The general idea of pruning crapemyrtles is to cut limbs back to the crotch or lateral branch at the branch collar, the raised or swollen area at the base of the branch where it joins the trunk. It forms a protective barrier against disease and insects and promotes healing of the wound that results from pruning.

There are really no rules for pruning the branches of crapemyrtles above 3 feet. At this point, only take out branches that are necessary. The crapemyrtle may not need any limbs removed or any additional pruning. It is more of a personal choice on how much or how little to prune. Less is better, but any branches closer than 6 to 8 inches or numerous small twigs might need to be thinned. Just remember that topping or just cutting branches off will only promote vigorous, long branches when new growth begins. Pruning to the crotch or lateral branch will prevent that.

Lastly, prune out the brown seed heads on the tips of the branches that formed after the crapemyrtle flowered.

Crapemyrtles can grow up to 30 feet tall, so select an appropriate size based on its location.

24 Lake Martin Living

This again helps give the crapemyrtle a cleaner, formal look.

Renewal pruning or cutting a plant back to the ground is sometimes a good idea. If a crapemyrtle has been severely damaged, unhealthy or pruned badly, renewal pruning will allow the plant to start all over. A crapemyrtle that is renewal pruned will rapidly grow back in about two to three years. Once the crapemyrtle has grown back, the plant could be trained and properly pruned to look even better.

In cases when a crapemyrtle is too close to the house, due to being planted in the wrong place, constant pruning is pointless. Cut it down to the ground and apply an herbicide containing glyphosate or 2-4-D, to the stump to kill it. Problem solved.

Crapemyrtle varieties come in all shapes, colors and sizes. Pruning large ones into small ones doesn’t make sense. If you want a small, manageable crapemyrtle that looks like a shrub, buy a smaller variety. Whacking off and scarring up large, beautiful crapemyrtles each year serves absolutely no purpose and is a community eyesore in the landscape.

It is the year 2020; it is time to stop the madness! ~ Shane Harris is the Tallapoosa County Extension Coordinator for the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Contact him at 256-825-1050 or visit aces.edu/tallapoosa.

Not a Cheater's Game

G

olf is a tremendous sport and referred to as a until the recent Hero World Challenge episode. gentlemen’s game. We, as players, are responsible Reed’s history of issues goes even further. He was removed and expected to call penalties and rule violations on from the University of Georgia Golf Team because of ourselves. After all, that is a difference between golf questionable actions. He then was picked up by Albany State and other sports.

University, where he was caught cheating on academic exams.

I will never forget the story about Bobby Jones in the 1925 Reed was raised in a very dysfunctional family, but I don’t give U.S. Open when he called a penalty on himself, when his ball him any “Get Out of Jail Free” cards. moved while addressing it. Nobody else on this planet saw it but Reed was selected to join Team USA by Captain Tiger Woods him. He called a rules official over and told him what happened. in the 2019 Presidents Cup before his escapade in the Bahamas.

The rules official questioned Jones, who did what was right This event was played in Melbourne, Australia, at Royal within the rules of golf. He was assessed a one-stroke penalty.

Melbourne, one of the world’s finest golf courses.

Finishing in second place and one shot behind Everybody in the golf world knew that Reed was the eventual champion Willie Macfarlane, Jones’ going to get his share of razzing from the crowds one-shot penalty cost him the chance to tie for during the Presidents Cup as a result of his actions this major championship. Jones was praised for his at the Hero World Challenge. It started before play honesty, and when interviewed by reporters about began when international team player Cameron his action and the praise, he said, “You might as well Smith publicly called Reed a cheater. praise me for not robbing banks.”

I watched every shot made during this telecast, It’s been 94 years since Bobby Jones made this and through the whole event, I felt the crowds gesture of integrity. Since then, there have been were fairly easy on him until the third day. One countless players who have done the same. spectator had a few choice profane words for Reed On the contrary, in early December, PGA Tour as he was walking from one hole to another. Reed’s Player Patrick Reed faced a difficult lie in a bunker caddie, Kessler Karain, had his fill of it and lost shot on the third round of the 2019 Hero World his composure. He put down Reed’s golf bag and Challenge Golf Tournament at The Albany Resort physically pushed the spectator. The tournament in Bahamas. The ball had been partially buried – committee dealt with his poor decision and banned best known as a fried egg lie. This indicates that the Karain from caddying for Reed in the final round. golf ball is at the bottom of its own crater that was Throughout the Presidents Cup, the players for Dave Jennings made when it flew in to the sand bunker. This was a Team USA publicly stated that they supported Reed difficult shot and at the time, Reed was leading the and his story; however, I have to believe otherwise. tournament. In two consecutive practice swings, I believe that everyone should be accountable Reed brushed away sand from behind his golf ball with his and responsible for his or her own actions. In golf – and life in club, clearly giving him a better lie. Folks, this is a blatant rules general – there is no room for liars and cheats. There needs to be infraction. After the two practice swings, Reed hit his shot, but real consequences for Reed in these situations. The PGA Tour did not request the presence of a rules official and never made a has sidestepped Reed’s issues long enough. I firmly believe that comment to anyone that he may have broken a rule. the PGA Tour should penalize Reed with something like a sixFortunately, the camera was on Reed and recorded this month suspension from play on the PGA Tour and its affiliates; ordeal. The rules officials examined the footage and took action. ban him from future Ryder Cup or President Cup teams.

When Reed concluded his round for the day at the scorers’ table, Also, I would be very proud to see his big-money sponsors the rules officials enlightened him on his rules infraction and – Nike Golf, Hublot and Ultimate Software – drop him like a penalized him two strokes for improving his lie. This kicked lead balloon. I have to suspect that from now on, there will be a Reed out of the lead, and Swedish player Henrik Stenson won camera lens pointed at every single shot that confronts Reed in the tournament. Reed finished in third by two strokes. competition. I know that if I were a player on Tour, I would want The two-stroke penalty was the maximum penalty that the that to happen – just to be sure that he is not cheating or if he is, rules officials could place on Reed. Reed stuck with his story and he is properly penalized. said, “I didn’t know I had done that.”

PGA Tour players should be positive role models. In the case I don’t buy it. The most crucial consideration a good player of Reed, he does not set the example most parents would want has to make before ever hitting a golf shot is in the evaluation their children to follow. of his golf ball’s lie. He gives each and every lie of the ball a For more than 500 years, golf has gained a respectful good look before all of the other considerations and well before reputation, which is a reason I love and admire the game. Keep determining which club is to be used and what shot should be believing in its ideals and follow the rules. Play the best golf played. In golf, we are to play the ball as it lies. that you possibly can. Grind over every single shot, but always, To the public, Patrick Reed was mostly known as a good solid always: Play by the rules. player until he made false comments and excuses after his poor play in the 2018 Ryder Cup. This opened the public’s eyes about ~ Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach at Central Alabama Reed’s professionalism. Things had calmed down from that a bit Community College.

From the Tee

Lake Martin Living 25

26 Lake Martin Living

Driven to Serve Dadeville's first female officer advocates for accuracy and honesty

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

Lake Martin Living 27

K

alie Abbett has a flair for bold titles and transcending expectations. After all, she is the record holder for killing the largest whitetail deer – a 27-pointer – as a female in the state of Alabama. When she unknowingly altered history in her career choice, she didn’t seem at all fazed.

Earlier this year, Abbett was hired as the first female officer at the Dadeville Police Department, and she has transitioned seamlessly into the role.

“I really didn’t even know I was the first female officer until they started talking about it around the office. I just don’t look at things that way. I am treated the same, as it should be. Everyone is equal,” said Abbett.

A Benjamin Russell High School graduate and Jackson’s Gap native, Abbett was exposed to a role in law enforcement when she was working with the Jackson’s Gap Volunteer Fire Department.

Lt. Eric Hall with the Jacksons Gap Police Department invited Abbett to ride along with him. She then spent two and a half years in the Jackson’s Gap volunteer police reserves, gaining experience in the field.

When she began shadowing Hall, Abbett wasn’t required to have any formal certifications aside from proper qualifications for her firearms.

“I didn’t really know that being in law enforcement was what I wanted to do until I started working in the reserves. I always liked helping other people, though, and I will always help out in any way that I can,” said Abbett.

During her years with the Jackson’s Gap police reserves, she had multiple opportunities to attend the Law Enforcement Academy, but the timing was never right. Earlier this year, then-Dadeville Police Chief David Barbour personally reached out to Abbett about a position open on his team.

“Chief Barbour is really the one that got the ball rolling for me, and he had the confidence in me to succeed,” said Abbett.

She spent 13 weeks at Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy in Anniston and graduated on July 25, 2019.

“I really liked the size of the department in Jackson’s Gap,” said Abbett. “Dadeville is small, too. It’s more like a family. Although I am known as The Rookie, which I really don’t like, and I’m really not a rookie.”

Her cousin is Tallapoosa County Sheriff Jimmy Abbett, so law enforcement is prevalent in her family. He was excited for her new adventure and said to not let him down – which she knew she wouldn’t.

“It was a little rocky when I first started out in Dadeville because a bunch of people left when Chief Barbour retired, but it’s getting better,” said Abbett. “And Chief Floyd holds the same expectations as Barbour did.”

Currently, Abbett is assigned to night shifts, where she is on duty from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., but she hopes to return to day shifts when a new officer is hired. She also is being trained to work with DHR, children and domestic 28 Lake Martin Living

Serving the Public violence. Kids tend to open up Previous page: Kalie more and be more comfortable Abbett is the first around a female officer, she said.

“My biggest pet peeve is people female officer at the Dadeville Police that mess with the kids and the Department; Top: elderly – people that can’t defend Abbett really enjoys themselves,” said Abbett. interacting with the While the job is rewarding, public and helping others. it does come with some adverse training. In order to be certified to carry pepper spray and a stun gun, police officers are coached to be able to handle perpetrators while those weapons are being personally used against them.

“That really hurt. The pepper spray lingered in my eyes for like three or four days, and it feels like your head is about to explode. Water re-activates the chemicals so every time you shower, it comes back,” said Abbett.

“I try to assess a situation and make accurate judgments to ensure proper actions are taken. If I’m not 100 percent on something, I am not going to do it.

And honesty goes a long way with me.”

~Kalie Abbett

Every year, officers need to be re-certified to carry pepper spray and a stun gun but, fortunately, only need to endure the torture one time.

Abbett takes her policing very seriously, and her future goal is to keep advancing by being the best officer possible, she said.

“I do my job to the best of my ability and strive to do my best,” said Abbett. “I try to assess a situation and make accurate judgments to ensure proper actions are taken. If I’m not 100 percent on something, I am not going to do it.

And honesty goes a long way with me.”

Another appealing aspect of the job is the constantly changing scenery and situations.

“You never know what you’re going to get each day. Even when we get repeaters, we may have an idea of what to expect, but it’s always a different call,” said Abbett. “Plus I love being outdoors.”

When she’s not at the police department, Abbett and her fiancé, Michael Koubek, can be found in the woods or on the lake, hunting and fishing.

The couple first met at a hunting store when Abbett was 10 years old. They re-connected about a decade ago. They’ve been engaged for two years and hope to marry early this year.

“I met my fiancé through hunting, which has been my passion ever since my dad took me hunting when I was as young as I can remember,” she said. “After I killed my first deer at age 6, I was hooked.”

A dedicated sportswoman, Abbett showcases that same grit and loyalty in her career. While she may not think of herself as a role model, Abbett’s zest for helping others and secure mindset for breaking the mold sets a positive example for future young minds.

Lake Martin Living 29

'I do'

Alexander City natives say

on TLC's Say Yes to the Dress America STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & GABRIELLE JANSEN PHOTOS COURTESY OF KIMBERLY MCCLELLAN

A

lexander City natives Kimberly and Dan McClellan waited seven years to get married but when they did, they shared their big day with 51 other couples from around the U.S. at Bethesda Fountain in New York City on July 10, 2019.

Kimberly McClellan applied to TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress America on a whim following encouragement from co-workers, who were confident she would be chosen.

“They said, ‘You’re too weird to not put on TV,’” said McClellan.

Working at an advertising agency in Birmingham, McClellan heard about the opportunity from a Discovery Network representative who came in for a regular meeting and alluded to the show.

Say Yes to the Dress America is a new 10-episode series hosted by TLC that aired this month starring engaged couples from every state, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. The two-hour finale special will celebrate the couples saying, “I do,” at one communal wedding officiated by Say Yes to the Dress host Randy Fenoli.

“The wedding was really the weirdest way to get married but also I don’t have a point of reference because it’s the only time I’ve been married,” McClellan said. “I think it was good.

It was fitting for me. I’m not very bridal and haven’t prioritized planning a wedding. So when we were chosen, we decided why not?

Everything was already set up; we just had to show up.”

30 Lake Martin Living

The couple, who met while attending Auburn University and got engaged in Disney World in 2012, found out they were chosen as the Alabama representatives one month before the big day, and brides picked out their dresses from Kleinfield Bridal with just two days to spare.

“I tried on seven dresses total, and I liked all of them, so it was hard to choose,” said McClellan. “We were all paired with a stylist, and you could choose whatever dress you wanted. We had our run of the store and were filmed every second.”

McClellan ultimately cut down her selections to two dresses – both from the same designer, Essence of Australia – but went with the one she felt was more extravagant.

“The other one I really liked. It was very simple and a nice shape. But I can wear a nicefitting dress any day. I’m not going to wear an over-the-top gown all the time. If ever there was a day to pick something like this, now is it,” she said.

McClellan and her husband spent about a week in New York City, and both of their families were able to join in on the festivities.

The show hosted a mixer for all the couples, who were encouraged to dress like their states.

“We decided to Endless Selections dress in Auburn Kimberly McClellan gear because part tried on seven dresses of our statement on at Kleinfield Bridal and our submitted video ultimately chose this was that whether elegant gown made Alabama or Auburn by Essence of Australia.

Lake Martin Living 31

fans, college football is a lot of fun and the whole state is supportive,” she said.

Every aspect of the show was filmed, but McClellan said, she is unsure how much of her story will be included in the finale cuts, as there were 10 featured brides.

“I loved the experience. I don’t need to be the center of attention anyway, so I didn’t mind sharing the spotlight with the other brides,” said McClellan.

Earlier in the day, brides got to get ready in the famed Loeb Boathouse at Central Park.

At the wedding ceremony, each bride walked down the aisle one at a time to meet her groom; then, the couples walked to a certain spot to stand during the vows.

32 Lake Martin Living

The McClellans were the first couple married because the weddings were done alphabetically by state. The couple’s immediate family members were guests, and some strangers also stopped to watch the ceremony since it was held out in the public during late afternoon.

Also, each bride had bouquets made with her state flowers, along with other statespecific details.

“Everything was pretty much done for us,” McClellan said. “We got to show up and be a part of it.”

McClellan wore her pearls to the ceremony, which were a graduation gift from her grandparents, and she added her own personal touch.

The reception immediately followed, also in the Boathouse, with champagne and a cake

made by Cake Boss One Big Day star Buddy Valastro. Top: The 52 brides and grooms starring When they returned home, the in Say Yes to the Dress America appear McClellans hosted on Good Morning a post-wedding America; Left: Kimberly shower and party at and Dan McClellan Dan’s parents’ house sport their Auburn on Lake Martin. The gear representing the state of Alabama at a couple is set to go on their honeymoon couple's mixer. to Puerto Rico in February.

Say Yes to the Dress America premiered at 8 p.m. Jan. 4 on TLC, and will air every Saturday at 8 p.m. until the big finale on March 7.

Lake Martin Living 33

LAND FOR SALE

The Dozen Dos of Buying Rural Land

EXCERPT FROM THE E-BOOK, BUYING RURAL LAND: TIPS AND HOW-TO’S BY TOM BRINKMAN RE-PRINTED WITH PERMISSION

If you are shopping for hunting, timber or farm land, here is a checklist created by trial and error from experts in the field.

1.

Be clear on why you want to own land

Hunting, investment, rural residence and family recreation are all good reasons for owning land, and each one leads to a different kind of land. For example, if you plan to live on the land, legal access and proximity to public services will be important. Be clear on your intentions, so you can focus your search. The key to fewer regrets is thinking in detail about how the land will be used and involving your family in the shopping effort.

2.

Look at many properties

The more you shop, the better deals you’ll find. People change their minds about details once they do some shopping. Looking at many deals can be challenging because it takes a lot of time, but it’s important. Keep in mind that easy-to-find properties (on the internet) are only a small part of all the land available for new ownership. That’s because more properties are promoted by thousands of landowners or smalltown agents. In fact, research shows that many properties available for purchase have not been promoted at all. So keep looking and get help if needed.

34 Lake Martin Living

3.

Inspect the property

Not every property will have the physical characteristics you desire. To determine suitability, you’ll want to physically inspect any possible purchase.

Depending on intended use, things to consider are neighborhood desirability; ease of access; timber species; age and quantity; soil productivity; how the land lays (topography); presence of creeks; quality of pastures; existence of boundary line and corner markings; potential boundary or access problems with neighboring landowners.

Whenever you buy land, remember that one day you may want to sell it. Whatever appears to be a problem now will likely be a problem for future buyers, too. To inspect a property, look at aerial photos and topographic maps with the boundary lines indicated.

Get out and walk the lines. A good source for boundary line information is the county tax assessor office. In fact, many counties have tax maps online.

And, there are private sources for paper and online tax map data. A consulting forester can help with an inspection.

4.

Talk to the property owner

Believe it or not, some people will say they want to sell their land but really don’t have a sincere interest in selling. It

might be for a free appraisal, or even for the attention. So you should interview property owners to assess the strength of their motivation to sell. Ask good questions of the owner or listing agent, such as, how long it’s been on the market; how many price changes there have been; how many offers have been made; how many different agents have listed it; and why the owner is selling.

5.

Confirm the acreage

Most rural land has never been surveyed. The fact is, without a survey, no one really knows exactly how many acres are in a tract. For example, the deed may say 160 acres because the property is 1/4 of a Section (a perfect Section is 640 acres), but the tax assessor may say 155 acres. Each have their reasons, but without a survey, neither should be viewed as exact. Because surveys are expensive ($0.40 to $0.80 per foot), most land buyers make a rough check on acreage and live with the ambiguity.

Examples of this include plotting the boundary lines as indicated by the tax map on a topographic map or aerial photograph with known scale.

Another example is pacing the boundary lines (assuming they are visible on the ground) which is also a good way to check for encroachments by neighbors (a loss not covered by title insurance). A forester can help you do this and may have a

GPS, which is also a good rough check. Sometimes a lender, seller or buyer will require a survey. But unless there is reason to suspect a problem, a rough check will find serious errors and save a lot of money if you can live with a little uncertainty.

6.

Confirm the timber value

Timber can be worth as much as $4,000 per acre, and a property that looks clear cut along the road may have excellent timber on the back side across the creek. If a property is timbered, it’s a good idea to have a consulting forester walk the property for a rough check on timber value.

Testing the validity of the asking price of a property will require you to have some idea of the timber value. Many times, a walk-over is enough of a check if the timber has unexceptional value. The cost of a walk-over will be somewhere around $400; however, most foresters will give credit of this cost toward a formal appraisal if the walk-over indicates a timber cruise is in order (a timber cruise is the process of counting and measuring the trees). A timber cruise and appraisal will typically run $4 to $8 per acre, but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind (and good info for establishing your timber tax basis).

7.

Test the asking price

It’s not unusual for land sellers to have an unrealistic opinion of value, so independently testing the asking price is very important. Study actual sales data. Get an appraisal; retain a real estate professional; or go to the courthouse yourself; otherwise, your estimate of fair value will be shaped by coffee-shop talk or what an

owner asks for the land – all poor guides for fair pricing.

Sale data is available at the county probate office if you know how to search. Be sure the sales data you consider is of property similar to the one you are looking at (similar size, location, timber value, access, land quality and use). If the property is listed with an agent, the agent should be able to provide you with comp sales data.

8.

Examine the title

A title exam is a written report on the legal history of the property. It identifies the claims of others in the land (for example, a long-lost cousin with a 1/64th interest) and informs you of the limits to your rights as the new owner (for example, the rights of the power company who have a transmission line across the property or a neighbor with a road-use easement). It can identify mineral interest (but may not) or the legal condition of the road to the property (just because there is a road does not mean you have unrestricted use of it).

Many people take this step after a contract is signed; however, in our experience, a title exam is a cheap way to find a deal killer early and save time and money. A title exam (also called a binder) can be purchased from a local attorney or title company.

It will take about a week to complete and typically run about $300.

9.

Determine if you will use debt

Land and timber investments rarely earn the loan payment, and your cash may be needed for other matters. Finding the right balance of cash and debt

is important, so talk to financial advisors early in the process.

10.

Contract negotiations

Once a price is agreed upon, there will still be things to work out between you and the seller.

For example, who pays for title insurance; closing attorney; survey, if needed; mineral inclusion; cost to get the deed recorded at the court house; loan cost, etc.

11.

Setting up tax basis accounts

Once you buy the property, it’s a good idea to set up two accounts for tax purposes (known as your basis).

Determine the value of your timber at the time of purchase (your timber basis), then; the balance of the purchase price is allocated to land (your land basis). The purpose for this is to allow you to calculate capital gains tax should you sell some or all of your timber or land later on. Capital gains tax is only charged on the amount of gain from a sale above the amount of your basis.

12.

"Current Use" property tax status

“Current Use” is a special property tax status that allows rural land to be taxed at a lower rate than other types of real property. Current Use can reduce your tax bill by 50 percent or more. The tax assessor’s office in your county can verify the tax status and help you apply for Current Use if you do not already have it.

Brinkman is a registered forester, certified appraiser and land broker with more than 40 years of experience.

Contact him at 205-936-2160 or tbrick@CyprusPartners.com.

Lake Martin Living 35

OH SNAP! 2

3

1 4

5

6

New Year's Eve Casino Night Dec. 31, 2019 The Mill Two Eighty 1. Nolan Brown and Shay Rogers 2. Jacob and Lindsay Meacham 3. Ashleigh Taylor, Maggie Whaley, Claire Humber, Madison Powell, Lynsi Phillips and Sarah Daughtery 4. Scott Hardy and KK Hines 5. Tara Jones and Daisy Pike 6. Aubrey and Jessica Goodson 7. Connie Speaks, Tracey Fuller and Twila Gordon

36 Lake Martin Living

7

OH SNAP!

1 2

3

4

5

5th Annual Jingle Jump Dec. 14, 2019 Camp ASCCA 1. Victoria Dean, Alaina Reville, Leah Tingle, Ashley

6

McCoy and Beth Parmer 2. Chad and Leanne Calhoun 3. Dana Rickman and John Ferguson 4. Dallas Smith, Renee Cash, Dawson Smith, Griffin Cash and Christian Davis 5. Jerry Burnette and Matt Kornegay 6. Amy, Kyle and Kasey Langley

Lake Martin Living 37

OH SNAP! 1

2

5

6

A Downtown Christmas

3

4

7

8

Dec. 14, 2019 Alexander City 1. Ava Barrett and Covyn Holt 2. Ronna Blake and Susan Hardy 3. Lucas and Matt Bean 4. Salli Jo Korthuis and Teya Waites 5. David and Mimi Heffelfinger 6. Kenzley Buttnely, Melissa Robbins and Destini Harris 7. Ryan, Remington and Holly Jordan 8. Hanlon and Susie Boyles and Abby Gilliland 9. Weston Harry, Betty Strickland and Braxton Sims

38 Lake Martin Living

9

OH SNAP! 1

2

3

6 4

5

Autism Society of Alabama's 7

Sensory Santa Dec. 14, 2019 Lake Martin Innovation Center 1. Matthew Johnson 2. Jaxon Langord 3. Ren and Megan Ford 4. Christopher Sparks 5. Charlie Wright 6. Mikayla Pitts 7. Torrie Mullins, Santa Claus, Jessica Johnson, Kristi Jordan, Kimberly Johnson and Melissa Mullins

Lake Martin Living 39

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

5th Annual

Polar Plunge For the fifth year, the Lake Martin Young Professionals will host an opportunity to be one of the dozens of risk-takers who charge into the frigid waters of Lake Martin – or simply enjoy the view from the shoreline – all for a good cause.

Lake Martin Dock Company will present the annual YP Polar Plunge on Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kowaliga Restaurant. This much-anticipated event supports the Lake Martin Resource Association lighted buoy program. Over the years, the YPs have raised around $14,000 to benefit LMRA and its wonderful programs that keep Lake Martin clean, safe and enjoyable.

The featured plunge will take place at noon, and attendees are encouraged to dress in costume. A prize will be awarded to the most creative. Immediately following the plunge, the Dash for Cash will take place where swimmers race out to a buoy and back for the chance to win money.

40 Lake Martin Living

Live music will start after the plunge and the band will play until 3:30 p.m. Kowaliga Restaurant will serve up a special Polar Plunge menu starting at 11 a.m. There will be a fire pit, s’mores and two cash bars.

Tickets are $20, which includes food, entertainment and the daylong fun. For more information, contact YP president Jacob Meacham at jacob.meacham@alexandercitychamber.com.

Jan. 13-24

Martin Luther King Jr. Display

The Concerned Parents for Academic and Community Excellence will host a historical display of Martin Luther King Jr. inside the lobby of Alexander City City Hall. The public is welcome to explore the display during City Hall’s hours of operation.

Jan. 16

Little House Show

Liz Brasher will take the indoor stage at Standard Deluxe in Waverly at 7:30 p.m. Supper will be served in the FeedShak at 6 p.m. Tickets are $15, and seating is limited. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

Jan. 16

Beginner’s Beekeeping Course

The Tallapoosa River Beekeepers Association will start its Beginning Beekeeper Course on Jan. 16 and continue every Thursday for five more weeks at the Dadeville Recreation Center, 116 Kids Court, at 6:30 p.m. Registration is $45 per person.

For more information, contact the Tallapoosa County Extension Office 256-825-1050.

Jan. 17

2nd Annual Student Art Show Opening Reception

Everything’s Art will host an opening reception for the Tallapoosa County students, and their family members, who submitted artwork for the K-12 competition. The reception will be held at Raining Dogs Gallery, 129 N. Tallassee St. in Dadeville, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The winners of each category will be announced and receive art supplies and cash. The public is welcome to attend. For more information, visit everythingsart.org.

Jan. 19

Tallapoosa County Historical Society Meeting

The Tallapoosee County Historical Society will hold its quarterly meeting at 2 p.m. at 214 Broadnax Street in Dadeville. The program will be Sing Along with the Dulcimer Club. This group, led by Kim Walls, will play and everyone can join in to sing some of the songs. The dulcimer instrument originated in the Scotch

Irish settlements in Appalachia, and remains an instrument in use today for traditional songs. The Scotch Irish descendants were a significant group in the settling of Alabama. This meeting is open to the public, and refreshments will be served.

Jan. 20

Martin Luther King Day

Nathan H. Stephens Elementary School Principal Dr. Mary Halloway will be the guest speaker at the annual communitywide Martin Luther King Jr. celebration at 11 a.m. at the Stephens School gymnasium. This program will follow the parade, which begins at 9 a.m. and rolls through downtown Alexander City.

Jan. 20

Horizons Unlimited Terry Robbins

The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Highway 280, will host the winter Horizons Unlimited series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Terry Robbins, award-winning songwriter/musician from Clay County, will present George Jones: The Crown Prince of Country Music.

Robbins is a member of the Sylacauga Songwriter’s Association and will share the amazing successes of George Jones.

Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the semester.

Jan. 23

Sail On: A Beach Boys Tribute Band

Alexander City Arts will host Sail On: A Beach Boys Tribute Band, at Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium at 7 p.m. The group will perform Beach Boys’ classics and some treasures from the band’s extended catalogue. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door or online at brownpapertickets.com or alexcityarts.org. For information, email alexcityarts@gmail.com or call Marry Wood Perry at 256-749-8073.

Jan. 23

Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet

The Lake Martin Area Dadeville Chamber will host its annual meeting and awards banquet at New Water Farms, 460 Civitan Rd. in Dadeville, at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50 each, which includes dinner. Alabama Secretary

of State John Merrill will be the guest speaker.

Jan. 27

Horizons Unlimited Wayne Flynt

The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Highway 280, will host the winter Horizons Unlimited series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wayne Flynt will present Alabama’s Bicentennial – What Can We Take Pride in as a State and What Do We Need to Make Better. Flynt is a professor emeritus at Auburn University, and his research focuses on Southern culture, Alabama politics, Southern religion, education reform and poverty.

Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the semester.

Feb. 3

Horizons Unlimited Marie Lanier

The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Highway 280, will host the winter Horizons Unlimited series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Marie Lanier will present SIFAT: Servant’s in Faith and Technology. Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the semester.

Feb. 10

Horizons Unlimited Glenn Wills

The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Highway 280, will host the winter Horizons Unlimited series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Videographer Glenn Wills will present Forgotten Alabama.

Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the semester.

Feb. 11-12

ServSafe Training

The Tallapoosa County Extension Office will host a two-day certified food protection manager course at 125 N. Broadnax St. Room 23 in Dadeville from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This certification meets the Alabama Department of Public Health requirement for retail food permit holders. Registration is $140, and you must be registered by Jan. 28. For information, email Dani Reams at acr0087@aces.edu or call 256-368-1694.

Lake Martin Living 41

Feb. 13

Annual Kiwanis Steak Dinner and Auction

The Alexander City Kiwanis Club will host is annual steak dinner and auction at The Mill Two Eighty at 5:30 p.m. in honor of Mr. Bob Stone, an American hero. Guests will be served a three-course dinner, and there will be both a silent and a live auction. Tickets are $40 per person and may be purchased at Tapley’s Appliance, Caldwell Electronics or from any Kiwanis member.

All proceeds benefit the children in Tallapoosa County. For more information, contact Louise Tapley at 256-329-9762.

Feb. 17

Horizons Unlimited David Lucsko

The First United Methodist Church Trinity Campus, 3266 U.S. Highway 280, will host the winter Horizons Unlimited series from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. David Lucsko will present Junkyards and the Automotive Past with a behind-the-scenes tour of salvaged yards and derelict cars across America, particularly in the Southwest.

Membership is $20 per person or $30 per couple for the semester.

Season-Long Events Millerville Trade Day

Bibb Graves School on state Route 9 hosts this trade day on the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m with free outside setup for vendors, yard sale, flea market and swap meet items (no food vendors).

Donations from sales to BGHS Alumni and Friends Association would be appreciated. There will be a designated area to bring vehicles for sale with $20 donation to BGHSAFA upon sale. For information, contact Bruce Lowery at 205-522-5794.

Library Storytime in Dadeville

Storytime for children aged 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. for preschool42 Lake Martin Living

aged and younger children. In addition, the children’s library hosts board games and puzzles every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information, call Melissa Finley at 256-234-4644.

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.

Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit

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

$20 on the 20th

The Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber asks the community to spend $20 on the 20th of each month to help the local economy.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on state Route 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.

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

This group meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Senior Center.

Participants come and go between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5 p.m., followed by showand-tell. Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.

Real Island Supper

The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room, 1495 Real Island 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.

Charity Bingo at Jake’s

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 Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Senior Center in Alexander City, with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. For information, contact Michael Courtney at 256-825-7766 or Mike Smith at 256-750-5710.

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

Fourth Fridays at EPAC

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

Visit the Equality Performing Arts Center Facebook page for a schedule of upcoming artists.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

The third Saturday of each month, volunteers throughout the community are encouraged to meet at Broad Street Plaza at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. For more information, contact Jacob Meacham at jacob.meacham@ alexandercitychamber.com.

Coffee & Connections

Every third Tuesday of the month, the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking event at 8 a.m. open to any chamber member.

Participants should meet at the TPI bullpen at the Lake Martin Innovation Center for coffee, a light breakfast and a chance to network with community members.

Open Studio

The Artists Association of Central Alabama meets from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Senior Center and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Mondays at the Dadeville Senior Center on Columbus St. Beginners are welcome, and there is no charge for open studios. For more information, call June Dean at 334-301-5317 or Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506.

Charity Bingo at Niffer’s Place Lake Martin

Niffer’s, 7500 state Route 49 in Dadeville, hosts charity bingo every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Cards are $1 each, and funds go to participating charities.

Second Friday Open Mic Night

The Equality Performing Arts Center invites all musicians to its monthly jam sessions on the second Friday of each month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

There is no cover, but donations are greatly appreciated. There will be an intermission for snacks, and people are encouraged to bring a dish to share. The EPAC is located at 560 state Route 9 in Equality. For more information, visit the EPAC Facebook page.

Equality Neighborhood Watch Meetings

On the second Tuesday of every other month, the Equality Neighborhood Watch Association meets at 6:30 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge. This month’s meeting will be held at Equality Methodist Church.

There is a potluck supper, and the meeting is open to the public.

To have an event included in Lake Martin Living’s Calendar of Events, email date, time and information to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Give Your Heart a Fresh Start The new year is here, so why not make a resolution that gives you and your loved ones peace of mind? We all know that healthy hearts live longer, more active lives.

That starts with a comprehensive cardiac checkup.

February is American Heart Month, serving as an annual reminder of the fight against cardiovascular disease. Kevin Sublett, MD, and his staff at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic of Central Alabama are proud supporters of this fight. We are committed to keeping your heart healthy, so you can live a healthier life all year long.

Our clinic is backed by the world-class expertise you expect from UAB Medicine, offering: • The full spectrum of cardiovascular care • Care from a physician board-certified in interventional cardiology • The latest in cardiac and vascular ultrasound technology, as well as nuclear medicine imaging in accredited laboratories • Diagnosis and treatment of cardiac rhythm disorders • Convenient location within Russell Medical Call us today to schedule an appointment!

3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 234-2644 uabmedicine.org/heartcentralAL

Lake Martin Living 43

9

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

9

Power lines

280

18

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

14

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Flint Hill Church

22

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Pleasant Grove Church

27

11

9

Mt. Zion Church Russell Farms Baptist Church Friendship Church New Hope Church

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Smith Landing Willow Point

6

Seman

4 Camp Kiwanis

9

10 1 Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko w

ali

ga

2

19 5

Union Landing

23

Walnut Hill

y

20 26

Stillwaters

7 Ba

24 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

Church in The Pines

80

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

8 63 17 9

Equality

231

16

22

57

12 24

Dadev

280

28

Liberty Church

20

Jacksons Gap

25

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

15

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic Santuck

11 Kent Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

44 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUNT

Marinas

Daviston

1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 2 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 4 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

22

5 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 6 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

hoe Bend nal Park

7 Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

18 Dark Insurance 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 19 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853 20 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 21 Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847 21322 U.S. Hwy. 280, Dadeville, AL 36853 22 The Tiny Rabbit 256-307-1998 220 N. Broadnax St., Dadeville, AL 36853

Hotels & Lodges 23 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Restaurants & Venues

CHAMBERS COUNTY

ville 50

Camp Hill

9 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 10 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 11 Acapulco Mexican Grill 334-283-2725 2867 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee, AL 36078

21

ON TY

88 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

12 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt & Flatbread Pizza 256-444-8793 smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com 280

Business & Shopping Waverly

50

13 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850 14 Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 15 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

13

Churches 24 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 25 Lake Pointe Baptist Church

8352 AL-50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293

Dock Builders 26 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 27 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment 28 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

16 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853

LEE COUNTY

17 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

Loachapoka 14

Notasulga 85 81

If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-414-3174. Space is limited.

Lake Martin Living 45

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

ALEXANDER CITY

(334) 745-7966

primehomehealth.net

Healthcare Provided in the Comfort of Your Own Home Skilled Nursing Care • IV Medication Medication Education • Disease Management Post Operative Care • Wound Management Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy 46 Lake Martin Living PHH17_HalfPg_Magazine_8.2017_2.indd 1

8/24/17 3:14 PM

Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Que Campus of CACC Carlisle's Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart 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 Mark King 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 Touchless Boat Covers Valley Bank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

CHELSEA

The Ditsy Daisy Boutique Winn-Dixie

CHILDERSBURG Winn-Dixie

DADEVILLE

American Watersports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foodland Foshee Boat Dock Homeplate Restaurant Harbor Pointe Marina Lakay’s Flowers & Gifts

Lake Martin Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Community Hospital Lakeshore Discount Pharmacy Lakeside Marina Niffer's At The Lake Oskar's Cafe Payne Furniture Pearson’s Place Poplar Dawgs Public Library Pug's Place PNC Bank Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 The Tiny Rabbitt USAmeribank

ECLECTIC

Bless Your Heart 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 Original Grace Peoples Bank

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

INVERNESS

Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Area Tree Top Family Adventure Winn-Dixie

KELLYTON

Five Star Plantation

MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market

RED HILL Citgo

SYLACAUGA

Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly on 21

TALLASSEE

Chamber of Commerce Community Hospital Community Medical Arts Center Covington Healthcare Eagle Fuels Ivy Creek Game Day Clips Hornsby & Sons Body Shop Mitchell Veterinarian Hospital Paris Mullins Jr, OD Parker Tire & Service Center PrimeSouth Bank Tallassee Board of Education Tallassee City Hall Tallassee Community Library Tallassee Eagle Tallassee Family Dentistry Tallassee Internal Medicine Clinic The Tallassee Tribune Three Lake Dental

WALNUT HILL

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA

The Wetumpka Herald

For Every Stage Of Life Gynecology Obstetrics 5 2 5 H o s p i t a l D r i v e , S u i t e B , We t u m p k a , A L 3 6 0 9 2

334-279-9333 W W W. O B G Y N M O N T G O M E RY. C O M

IN-HOME CARE SERVICES

For elderly and disabled individuals needing assistance with activities of daily living.

Homemaking... Personal Care... Companionship Our goal is to keep our clients as active as possible in their own homes to promote overall health and well being.

With our personally tailored care plans, you will receive the individual care you need with the dignity and respect you deserve.

Lake Martin innovation Center 175 aLiant Parkway • aLexander City, aL • (256) 414-6090

Lake Martin Living 47

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

MRI MRI

COOSA COOSA VALLEY

VALLEY

COOSA VALLEY

More

Our ultra-short bore

OurMRI ultra-short boreyou ensures MRI ensures you get the benefit of the get the benefit of the technology technology in thein the comfortable mostmost comfortable surroundings surroundings possible. possible.

More Head-Out INSIDE Exams INSIDE COOSA VALLEY

MRI

COOSA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER

MEDICAL CENTER 315 Hickory Street OurWest ultra-short bore Sylacauga MRI ensures you 315 West Hickory Street 256-207-2686 get Sylacauga the benefit of the

COOSAVALLEYMRI.COM

in the 256-207-2686 More Head-Out Examstechnology most comfortable COOSAVALLEYMRI.COM surroundings

Our ultra-short bore MRI ensures you get the possible. benefit of the technology in the most comfortable surroundings possible INSIDE

INSIDE COOSA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTERCOOSA VALLEY 315 West Hickory Street, Sylacauga 256-207-2686

COOSAVALLEYMRI.COM

334-857-2443 lakemartindock.com

315 West Hickory Street Sylacauga 256-207-2686

Heating & Cooling Central Alabama for over 30 Years

Welcome JERRY DODWELL as our new General Manager!

*Financing Available *for qualified buyers*

48 Lake Martin Living

AL#11024

www.advancedheatingandac.llc

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

MEDICAL CENTER

• HVAC System Installation - Electric & Gas • Repairs on ALL Brands • Duct Work • Home Filtration and Humidifiers • Blown-In and Spray Foam Insulation

BOATHOUSES | STATIONARY DOCKS FLOATING DOCKS | SEAWALLS EZ PORTS PWC LIFTS | BOAT LIFTS RE-DECKS | BOAT LIFT REPAIRS

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

More Head-Out Head-Out Exams Exams

haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

AD INDEX A&M Plumbing.................................................................................... 6

Kelley’s Heating & Air........................................................................ 4 8

Advanced Heating & Air.................................................................... 4 8

Lake Martin Dock........................................................................... 8,48

Beyond Home Care............................................................................ 4 7

Lake Martin Signature Construction..................................................... 5

Alexander Landscaping ..................................................................... 4 7

Noel Boone........................................................................................ 4 8

Bolton Cove.......................................................................................51

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery................................................... 4 7

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation........................................................... 6

Prime Home Health............................................................................ 4 6

C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 1 5

Raining Dogs Gallery.......................................................................... 1 3

Cloverdale Jewelers............................................................................. 8

Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6

Coosa Valley MRI..............................................................................48

River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 4 8

DAVCO Development........................................................................ 4 8

Russell Medical.................................................................................. 4 8

Designs by Trish................................................................................... 6

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

Eddie & B's Carwash & Produce......................................................... 4 8

Southern Sash................................................................................... 4 7

Four Seasons..................................................................................... 4 8

Surgical Dermatology........................................................................... 8

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

Sunrise Docks.................................................................................... 4 9

Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance...................................................... 4 8

Swearingen Fence.............................................................................. 1 5

Heritage South Credit Union................................................................ 2

Sweet Pickins..................................................................................... 4 8

Hinson Galleries................................................................................... 2

Tallapoosa Board of Education............................................................. 3

Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance................................................ 4 8

Uber/Lyft/Glenn Ayerbe......................................................................48

Keel Crete......................................................................................... 5 1

Lake Martin’s Marine Construction Company 6732 Highway 63 South, Alexander Cit y, AL 35010 | (256) 392-5200 | www. sunrisedock sllc.com

Lake Martin Living 49

Chili cook-off to benefit AFE

P

op open some cans of beans and bust out the crockpots because the 3rd Annual Leslie Gaston Memorial Chili Cook-Off is just around the corner. This highly anticipated culinary event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. behind Ocie and Belle’s in downtown Alexander City. The cook off is much more than a competition – it’s a celebration of a really great person.

Leslie Gaston was an Alexander City native who passed away in 2015 from an amniotic fluid embolism or AFE. It is a life-threatening, acute and unexpected birth complication that can affect both mother and baby. Her daughter, Parker Ann Gaston, survived, and the chili cook-off – conceived by her sister, Kaci Patterson Letts – is a fun party that is reflective of Leslie’s fun, Lacey Howell loving personality.

“The event supports research for the AFE Foundation in hopes that no other family will lose a mother to this devastating birth complication.

We hope people can come out and have fun, taste some amazing chili, as well as support an incredible foundation that can change lives,” Letts said.

Letts teamed up with Ocie & Culinary Competition Belle’s owner Blair Gilliland, who From Left: Last year, one team was one of Leslie’s best friends, to cooked chili over bring the event to life. an open fire; “This day is so much more Cindy Scroggins, than a good time. I never want to Kaci Letts and go a year without remembering Parker Ann Gaston my friend that I miss terribly. This celebrate Leslie's life; A large crowd event is our way of memorializing supports samples Leslie chili behind Ocie & in a fun Belle's. way

Culture Shock

50 Lake Martin Living

while also giving back to the AFE Foundation,” said Gilliland.

The 2019 event had 32 teams. It is amazing how many different ways one can make chili: red sauce, white sauce, spicy sauce, sweet sauce, beans, no beans? Cheese options?

Fritos? It’s all there, and the options are endless.

My husband, John Howell, and I have been involved as a team the past two years. Once we did a Mexican-style chili with avocado; and then, last year, we did a Thaiinfusion chili complete with a fortune cookie.

It was not enough.

Cornerstone Insurance placed first; Alexander City Rotary Club took second; and Team Sigma came in third.

A panel of judges makes the final call, and cash prizes and a People’s Choice selection are awarded each year. But really it’s all about the bragging rights.

Teams have discovered that to stand out amongst the crowd, they need to go all in and dress up with a theme.

Last year, one team managed to cook over open fire and another set up horse saddles, hay bales and Western gear.

Five dollars gets you in the door, and you can sample all the chili you want.

Ocie and Belle’s will be open and slinging drinks to the live music. Don’t wear a white shirt, come hungry and we’ll see you there.

“On behalf of Leslie’s family and the AFE Foundation, we cannot thank Mark and Blair Gilliland enough for continuing to support the AFE Foundation through this event as well as the town of Alexander City for coming out the last few years and showing support. This event has turned out to be so much more than we imagined, and we are forever grateful to our family as well as participants and attendees,” said Letts.

Visit afesupport.org for more information about AFE. ~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn, who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and loves good wine. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram @LaceyHowell.

Lake Martin Living 51