Lake Martin Living February 2019

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

Competition heats up for Kowaliga Idol

Homes for our Feathered Friends

Free Books for Children Hunter achieves Grand Slam

February 2019

www.lakemartinmagazine.com

2 Lake Martin Living

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 3

From the Editor’s Desk

G

rowing up in the North, I was not exposed to firearms, which are more customary below the Mason Dixon. One of the most stimulating parts of my job is learning new things about which I may know little to nothing. This being one of those areas, I was invited by my boyfriend to attend (and participate in) a turkey shoot. I was eager to learn something new but also a little hesitant.

To my relief, we were not actually shooting turkeys. Did you know this sport applies to target competitions? You have permission to laugh at me; however, even though my aim was horrible, I met a welcoming group of guys from the Reeltown Lions Club who never once judged this Jersey girl coming in to shoot a shotgun for the first time. They even offered words of encouragement.

Not only did I enjoy the sport, but also I appreciated the company. One of these men in partciular is an avid turkey hunter, who has accomplished a great feat in the hunting world. Reeltown native Jerry Bishop achieved a Grand Slam, which indicates he’s harvested four of the turkey sub-species.

From his journey across the country to reach this goal, Jerry now proudly displays his trophies on the walls of his home. I had the opportunity to enjoy a conversation about Jerry’s adventures and have shared that with you on page 20.

Speaking of achieving goals, a dedicated group of Dadeville residents is on a mission to increase childhood literacy rates in Tallapoosa County. With a localized affiliate of Ferst Readers, the members’ goal is to sign up all children 5 years old and younger in the county to receive a free book per month for a year. Read about the benefits of the program on page 24 and learn what you can do to help accomplish this objective.

Local husband-wife duo had dreams of their own and uses their respective artistic skills to pursue hobbies as moneymaking opportunities. Read about Tara Wilson Art and W2 Ironworks on page 10. Both having had the opportunity to discover their talents in unique ways, Sonny and Tara Wilson enjoy spending time creating in their adjoining studios in Alexander City.

A slew of lucky participants will compete for the chance to get one step closer to stardom with Kowaliga Idol. The dream of many local residents could become a reality when they take the stage in March and show the judges what they’re made of with their performances. For the 11th year, Kowaliga Country will host this much-anticipated event at The Rodeo Club.

Turn to page 28 for more details.

If your vision is to buy a new home, Audrey Moore brings to the attention of first-time homebuyers some new programs to help on page 27. Dave Jennings could help you straighten up your golf game by dissecting the ball you’re using on page 18; and Shane Harris instructs readers on how to build birdhouses for feathery friends to bring joy to gardens on page 14.

I love that our readers are so ambitious and full of spunk. Keep achieving those goals, and I’ll continue to share them, while developing my understanding of the unknown.

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 Ron Colquitt Susan Foy Jimmy Wigfield Lacey Howell Audrey Moore Shannon McDuffie Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Shelley McNeal Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Katie Wesson Marilyn Hawkins Jessica Ware Julie Harbin Jolie Waters Shannon Filyaw Bizzy Baker Digital Services Kat Raiford 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 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

Lake Martin Living 5

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Eastern bluebirds are one of Alabama’s year-round residents and one of the most common birds to nest in birdhouses.

Woodland edges of open fields are among the top spots bluebirds enjoy nesting because there is a solid supply of insects and berries. Place houses at least 100 yards apart, since bluebirds are territorial.

Photo by Martha Tucker

10 Sonny Wilson works on welding a large door for a customer of W2 Ironworks.

Photo byAudra Spears

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20. THE GRAND SLAM Reeltown turkey hunter attains rare goal

9. AROUND THE AREA

24. FREE BOOKS! Ferst Readers to improve local childhood literacy

14. GARDEN TALK

28. KOWALIGA IDOL RAISES THE BAR Fierce talents vie for prizes at annual singing competition

10. BUSINESS MATTERS 18. FROM THE TEE 27. MONEY MATTERS 30. MEDICAL NEWS 31. OH SNAP! 36. LAKE REGION EVENTS 46. CULTURE SHOCK Lake Martin Living 7

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AROUND THE AREA

Potential plans for performing arts center Alexander City Theatre II and the city government are discussing a possible agreement to use the current city hall downtown as a performing arts center once it is vacated.

“We feel it would fit in with the downtown arts and entertainment district,” Alexander City Community Development Director Al Jones said.

ACT II president Betsy Iler said Alexander City Mayor Jim Nabors invited the nonprofit community

theater organization to consider using the building for further enhancement of downtown after city operations are consolidated in the former Russell Sales Office, probably in 2020.

“Nobody wants a large, vacant building in the center of downtown,” Iler said, “and the solution to avoiding that needs to benefit the whole community — the downtown merchants, the city government and the organizations and entities that could do what they do better

Empty Building if a multiACT II is considering use fine arts using City Hall once center was operations move to the available building on Highway 280. to them downtown.

And that’s what we’re researching — how we can best support the community and how the community would be willing and able to support ACT II and the city in that effort.” ~Jimmy Wigfield

Bill Ponder honored for his lifetime of work The Dadeville Chamber of Commerce honored local historian Bill Ponder with the Laeman Butcher Lifetime Achievement Award at its annual awards banquet.

Kurt Pfitzner said, “Bill Ponder made Dadeville not just a little better but a lot better. He served on the hospital board, was a founding member of the beautification committee, started a recycle center, helped start the humane society. He is an active member of the Tallapoossee Historical Society. He is History Buff responsible for most of the historical markers in Dadeville.

Bill Ponder (right) He even put in some of his money to have some of them humbly accepts installed.” the Lifetime ~Cliff Williams Achievement Award.

Costumes turn couple into new characters Batman and Catwoman, also known as Kyle and Cera Sasser, reside near Dadeville. The two enjoy losing their identities as often as possible with the art form cosplay, short for costume play.

The two have traveled throughout the South to take part in cosplay conventions while wearing a variety of outfits. They have even been extras in several episodes of the hit TV show, The Walking Dead.

“You put on a costume and go to a convention, a cosplay event, and you get your photo taken,” Kyle said.

While Escape Reality Kyle and Cera Sasser costumed, practice cosplay. Kyle's Kyle said he favorite character is and Cera, Captain Jack Sparrow. both 26, not only shed their identities but also take on new personalities. The couple began dating in high school and have been married for five years. It was Kyle who got Cera into the cosplay world. They also build their own props and most of their costumes. ~Ron Colquitt Lake Martin Living 9

Tara Wilson Art & W2 Ironworks STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS & AMY PASSARETTI

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BUSINESS MATTERS

T

alent abounds in the Wilson family as the local husband-wife duo creates works of art.

With adjoining studios in the old Russell Machine Shop building, Sonny Wilson fabricates any number of home projects out of iron and other metals, while Tara Wilson paints and uses other forms of media to fashion pieces of artwork.

“I sometimes have to put a sign on my door, ‘artist working,’ otherwise he likes to come in and distract me,” Tara said with a grin.

The Alexander City natives decided to turn their creative outlets into moneymaking opportunities, each embracing their unique skill sets.

A Family Affair W2 Ironworks opened two Left: Tara Wilson paints years ago after Wilson, who is mainly with acrylics; also Alexander City’s parks and Right: Sonny Wilson recreation director, was longing and his son, Thomas, to restore his ironwork skills from work on a large metal earlier in life at Robinson Iron. door for a customer.

“Ricky Robinson and Scotty Howell really gave me the opportunity to learn this trade on the job. It just gets in your blood,” said Wilson, who started working at Robinson Iron right after high school.

With no initial proficiency in this career path, Wilson eventually became a project manager while simultaneously

Lake Martin Living 11

studying at Central Alabama Community College.

His first trip out of Alabama was to a job in Chicago, which led to another one in New York for seven years. After traveling back and forth from out-of-state jobs to Alexander City, he decided it was time to stay at home after their second child was born.

“The mayor at the time called and asked me about the parks and rec position, and it was a perfect fit since I actually graduated in sports management,” Wilson added.

Returning to his craft, Wilson revived this as hobby initially, which grew into commission work. His son, Thomas, has become drawn to the vocation as well and 12 Lake Martin Living

frequently helps out. The W2 stands for the two Wilsons – Sonny and Thomas.

Items in their wheelhouses range from smaller handrails, doors and windows to larger pieces of furniture, hood vents and countertops.

“We do a little bit of everything using iron, copper, bronze, zinc and stainless,” said Wilson. “We always say, ‘You dream it, we’ll build it.’”

The vast open studio contains industrial tools and space to build all pieces, which Wilson then delivers and installs in customers’ homes.

Along with his day job and coaching junior varsity baseball, Wilson makes time in the evenings to turn on his radio and just build.

Since the couple doesn’t see each other often, Wilson tries to convince Tara to spend the evenings in the studio as well, but she is typically in her adjacent studio all day, every day.

“We do work second shift together sometimes, too. I just love it, and I can’t get enough of it,” said Tara.

Her now-art studio and home to finished work used to be Wilson’s painting room. Six months ago they cleaned up the space, painted the walls, pressure washed the interior and added a bathroom and power.

Last year, what began as a Christmas project for her mother-in-law turned into Tara producing not one but close to 80 painted angels the first season she picked up a paintbrush.

“I didn’t know I could paint. I realized how much I loved it and had such a passion for it after that,” she added.

Acrylic paint, often in softer tones, is Tara’s main medium; however, she has since branched out and will try almost any mixed media with different techniques and textures.

For painting, she uses anything from a brush to her fingers; a palette knife or whatever is lying around. A more

unique form of artwork to the Mixed Media Previous page: Broken area, poured broken glass is glass and resin is an another one of Tara’s favorite unusual art form Tara projects at the moment. By sells. Top left: W2 pouring temperate-specific Ironworks is named for liquid resin over the arranged Sonny and his son; Top glass design, the resin hardens to right: The Wilsons work protect the sharp edges and keep in adjoining studios. the broken pieces in place.

“I tend to lean toward abstract and minimalist mixed media, but I just love to create and see what it does,” said Tara.

She started selling her pieces at local art shows, such as Arti Gras at Russell Crossroads, and hopes to broaden her exposure. Tara said she openly accepts commission work and will even ship pieces across the country.

Wilson’s work is now 95 percent customer calls, but Tara said sometimes she just wants to create what she feels.

For more information about W2 Ironworks or Tara Wilson Art, visit their respective Facebook pages.

Lake Martin Living 13

14 Lake Martin Living

House Hunting Time to put up birdhouses for our feathered friends

T

Garden Talk

here is just something peaceful about having birds around homes and gardens. Whether it’s the joyful songs they sing in the spring or the delight received from admiring their bright colors, sizes and gifts of flight, it’s just nice having feathered friends around.

An added bonus is having birds nest there and raise their young nearby in the spring and summer. Those are the most wonderful kinds of neighbors.

Attracting birds to hang around a property means providing their basic needs – food, water and shelter. Putting up nesting boxes is also a must. Not all birds will build nests in birdhouses, but there are Shane Harris several species that will raise their offspring in manmade houses. The most common ones are bluebirds, chickadees, titmice, wrens and purple martins.

Late winter is the ideal time to construct and place new birdhouses before spring arrives. Between late February and early March, the birds mentioned above will go house hunting, but they won’t need a realtor. The male bird will usually start the search and visit several birdhouses. He then brings the female with him to see if she likes the place he picked out (just like in real life). Once they agree and select a spot or birdhouse, they begin hanging around it or claiming the territory.

Eastern bluebirds, one of Alabama’s year-round residents, have declined in population recently due to the lack of natural nesting cavities. This is caused by the changing habitats and competition from the introduction of starlings and house sparrows.

Thanks mostly to people constructing and putting up nest boxes, these birds have recovered and are improving their numbers.

Bluebirds are one of the most common to nest in birdhouses.

A birdhouse for a bluebird should have a floor dimension of 4 inches by 4 inches; be 8 inches by 12 inches Find the Right Spot tall; and have an entrance hole of 1-1/2 Bluebirds prefer inches in diameter that is 6 to 10 inches houses on the above the floor. Place the birdhouse 5 feet off edges of open the ground on a pole or post in an open area areas.

Lake Martin Living 15

rather than on and under the canopy of a large tree.

Bluebirds usually nest along woodland edges of open fields or other open areas.

They are often seen sitting on power lines or singing atop trees along pastures, lawns and golf courses. Birdhouses on the edges of these open areas are ideal because there is typically a solid supply of insects and berries.

These birdhouses should be placed at least 100 yards apart, since bluebirds are very territorial. If not, the dominant pair Different Sizes

Clockwise from top: Bird species prefer different houses; People like decorative birdhouses but birds are happy with plain living; Purple martins prefer condominiums and gourds.

16 Lake Martin Living

of bluebirds in the area will also claim the second birdhouse, and, although they won’t occupy it, they will run off others.

Carolina chickadees and tufted titmice are common backyard bird feeder visitors but will also use manmade birdhouses, including those designated for bluebirds. They live in woodland habitats and usually in close association with human beings. In the wild, chickadees and titmice will nest in decayed stumps, abandoned nest cavities and nest holes they have excavated.

Birdhouses for chickadees and titmice should have a floor dimension of 4 inches by 4 inches; be 8 to 10 inches tall; and have an entrance hole of 1-1/4 inches in diameter that is 6 to 8 inches above the floor.

Nest boxes for chickadees should be placed 6 to 15 feet above ground near several large trees with protective shading.

For titmice, nest boxes should be placed 4 to 10 feet above ground on posts or trees located along woodland edges.

Carolina wrens love thickets and brush piles bordering open areas. They will often nest in yards near these brush piles. Notorious for their curiosity, Carolina wrens will build nests in almost any available cavity, including hanging potted plants, open cardboard boxes in outdoor buildings and the pockets of clothing left on the clothesline. Wren birdhouses are constructed using the same dimensions for chickadees and titmice, but wrens prefer birdhouses placed 6 to 10 feet above ground on poles in open areas offering cover and protection.

Although not generally considered a songbird species, purple martins are easy to attract and a favorite yard species in the Southeast. These birds are noted for their tremendous appetites for mosquitoes and are well appreciated in most communities. Purple martins send out male scouts in midFebruary to March to search out potential nest sites, and the remaining colony members arrive later. Nest boxes must be erected before the scouts arrive to attract purple martins for a particular season.

Purple martins inhabit open woodlands and field edges, usually near lakes or ponds where they feed on insects.

Preferred nesting sites are woodpecker holes, natural tree cavities, caves and manmade martin condominiums and gourd houses.

Place purple martin houses on poles in fairly open areas 15 to 20 feet above ground, with an entrance hole of 2-1/2 inches in diameter. These houses should be taken down and cleaned at the end of the nesting season; and then, put back in early February before the scouts arrive. Martin houses should be painted white to help reflect light.

Almost any grade of untreated lumber could be used to build nest boxes; treated lumber is not recommended. The most durable woods include cypress, cedar and redwood.

Pine, although less durable, is easier to work with and is less expensive. Lumber should be at least a 3/4-inch thick to provide insulation for the birds. Painting is not necessary, except for purple martin houses or others made of soft wood.

As spring and warmer weather approaches, birds will begin building nests and laying eggs, possibly as early as late March. More than likely, they will nest in the chosen areas or birdhouses for the entire year – usually having two or three broods or sets of babies per year.

Although it is rewarding to watch the baby birds leave the birdhouse, seeing the same pair of birds return to the same birdhouse year after year may be just as special.

Get those birdhouses constructed; and then, be on the lookout for them house hunting and nest building. Having our feathered friends move in is a great event and a sign that spring is just around the corner.

For more information on Make Your Own songbirds and birdhouse plans, Top: Bird houses contact the local county Extension can be handmade Office or visit aces.edu. with any grade of ~ Shane Harris is the Tallapoosa County Extension Coordinator for the Alabama Cooperative Extension.

untreated lumber; Below: Houses can be hung on trees or poles.

Lake Martin Living 17

Which ball?

How they've evolved over time

W

From the Tee

hen I was a little kid and played OnCore has golf, the golf ball wasn’t as created a golf ball resilient as the golf balls of today. with a GPS chip Those ball covers were made inside, which is still from balata (a rubbery gum substance from in the testing stages. a tree grown in South America) with rubber This ball’s feature would band-like windings tightly wrapped around a allow for a player to locate small rubber liquid-filled ball. the golf ball via a smart phone.

For an inquisitive kid, it was always fun No way would these golf balls be to cut the cover off of a well-used ball (using considered conforming to the USGA a pocket knife, of course), watch the rubber standards. OnCore is presently pushing its band windings fly everywhere; and then, take conforming golf balls. My golfers actually did a the smaller rubber ball and have some goofy testing session for the company, and they liked fun with it. The liquid inside was rumored to the new ball fairly well. be acidic, so I never cut into that smaller ball Titleist is still ruling the roost in the golf Dave Jennings for fear of one of my hands being melted off – ball market. I wouldn’t say because it is a better ha! ball than the competition, but that’s where The few occasions I found a lost golf ball (Titleist or it sinks the bulk of its advertising dollars. The public Maxfli) in good condition, I cherished this find. Most of responds well to its marketing. the time, those better balls became known as my putting Titleist pays its Tour players a pretty good penny balls. Of course, it’s not legal in the game of golf to to play its ball, but so do most of the other ball exchange another ball only to putt, but as a 12-year-old – manufacturers. This year on Tour, Ricky Fowler changed and just playing with a couple of buddies – we didn't care. from a Titleist ball to the TaylorMade.

Those older golf balls did not hold up well after a Mizuno Golf has introduced a globally sold ball for poorly struck golf shot. If a player would hit one thin, this year. It is a four-piece construction style and is being the golf club would put a “smile” on the ball, which could offered in a spin version. The X series will allow for a actually reach into the rubber bands, making the ball little more distance. I’m interested in seeing how well virtually useless after that one poor shot. After striking a they do. tree or a cart path, that ball was history. Gone today are Bridgestone Golf shows continual steady growth on the older Titleist 384 Tour, Maxfli HT, Spalding Dot and a the Tour and in the sales market. My CACC Golf Team host of other sweet, little, dimpled old friends. uses the Bridgestone Tour B and the Tour BX golf balls.

Today’s golf balls live a much longer In fact, our Trojan golfers have been proudly using life. Although the Tour players Bridgestone balls and gloves for the past 17 years now. continue to go through a dozen Personally, I swear by the Bridgestone brand. or so golf balls in one round One of the features that I find especially helpful in the (mainly because they Bridgestone ball is found in the patented dimple pattern, don’t pay for them), which cuts through the wind more efficiently than any amateur golfers could other golf ball. Personally, I tested the Bridgestone ball’s virtually use the same wind resiliency on the par 3, No. 8 at Willow Point Golf golf ball for six or Course on a very windy day. The wind was blowing hard seven rounds of from left to right. I teed up a Titleist Pro V1 ball and golf before losing aimed that shot to the left side of the green, hitting an 8 any performance iron. benefits. Sadly, the In the air, the ball was blown from the left edge of new balls can be the green, across the green and landed in the righthand lost as easily as the bunker (and yes, I did hit it well). I then teed up a old balls – with the Bridgestone XS golf ball and started that shot on the exact exception of one. same line. The Bridgestone ball was blown from the left The company edge of the green and landed onto the center of the green.

18 Lake Martin Living

Both balls traveled the same distance, but the Bridgestone ball was not affected by the side-wind as rudely as was the Titleist ball.

For golfers who have been playing for more than 30 years, have you noticed that today players find higher-quality balls more often than 30 years ago?

I remember in the 90s that during a ball search, I was sure to come out of the woods with two Pinnacle balls, two Top Flites and one or two others of less-than-stellar qualities.

Today, although the balls may not always be in pristine condition, I now find a few Titleist Pro V1s, Bridgestones, TaylorMades, Callaways and, of course, a range ball that someone had stolen from the practice tee.

I remember 30-some-odd years ago, Top Flite sold 15-, 18- and 24-ball packages for a quarter of what someone would pay for a dozen Titleist Pro V1 balls now.

These Top Flite balls were found all over the place. It’s obvious people will look harder for a $5 golf ball than they will for a ball they spent 75 cents on.

This all being said, I truly believe that many people are playing with a higher-dollar golf ball than with what they need to be playing. Some people buy and play the higherpriced ball for confidence or ego, when they would be just as well served by playing a lesser-priced golf ball.

Titleist’s Velocity, new AVX or the DT would serve the masses just fine.

For most golfers, the lesser-priced ball will work just fine and likely will not raise anyone’s final score for the day.

Hey, if you normally shoot 85 for 18 holes and choose to play a Bridgestone Tour B X ball or a Titleist Pro V1, fine. Although I suggest giving other balls a test round, I’m just happy to see golfers out on the course.

Hopefully, our winter weather has come and gone, and we can all get a little sun on our skins before long. I myself am looking forward to playing more golf this year with fewer than four layers of clothing. Wishing a great golfing year to all of you. ~ Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach at Central Alabama Community College.

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Lake Martin Living 19

The Grand Slam Reeltown turkey hunter attains a rare goal STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY AMY PASSARETTI & COURTESY OF TINA BISHOP

R

eeltown native Jerry Bishop’s favorite sound at the break of dawn quietly waiting out in the woods is a wild turkey gobble.

“There is just something about that gobble that stirs something in me I can’t describe,” he said.

That same gobble has led him to Montana, Kansas and Florida to accomplish his dream of a Grand Slam, which in turkey hunting is an immense feat and requires harvesting four specific sub-species.

In May 2015, Bishop shot the Rio Grande bird in Alden, Kansas, to complete his mission.

“I remember everything exactly how it happened. It was really something else. I was very emotional,” said Bishop, who used the help of a guide to nail his final prey.

All four treasures are mounted on the walls in his home, which also display turkey feet, beards and feathers as trophies and decorations.

One of the Grand Slam birds is perched on a table constructed from wood of his childhood house, which was built in the 1850s. A cedar chest, which helps keep the scent down on his clothing, is crammed with hunting gear and was also handmade by Bishop.

Having lived within a 5-mile strip in Reeltown his entire life, Bishop recalls how hunting has changed over the last 50 years. He started hunting when he was 4 years old and remembers dog hunting for deer when he was about 5 or 6.

“Hunting has changed a lot, and I miss that camaraderie of the sport,” he added.

About 25 to 30 years ago, Bishop picked up turkey hunting and has been hooked ever since.

“It really is a lifestyle. I just love it,” he said.

The number of local turkeys has significantly decreased, Bishop said, so they’re harder to come by. The Eastern subspecies is native to the area, and the bird in which Bishop has hunted the most – although Mission Accomplished don’t even think about asking Top to bottom: Eastern, him the exact location.

Rio Grande and “I won’t give away my spot.

Osceola birds; Facing Around here a fella’ will likely Page: Jerry Bishop is a lifelong hunter, and this let you have his wife before his turkey land,” Bishop said with a Merriam is what kickstarted his journey. grin.

20 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 21

In Tallapoosa County, turkey season begins mid-March and continues until the end of April. Some locations farther north have extended seasons due to the colder weather.

Bishop recalled his first trip out of Alabama and the moment he decided to aim for the Grand Slam. About 20 years ago, he was working on the roads near Scenic Overlook and a buddy mentioned an upcoming hunting trip to Montana.

After Bishop was convinced to tag along, a group of four men loaded into a rented Jeep Commander and drove 26 hours northwest.

“I had no idea how cold it was going to be. I was the only one who brought one bag with me. I ended up wearing everything I had in there on me at all times,” said Bishop.

This location into what felt like the middle of nowhere marks the territory Bishop spotted and killed the Merriam bird.

“This is when I got it in my head to go for it,” he added.

“Montana was so vast, and some of the most beautiful scenery I’ve ever Proud Moment seen in my life.” Bishop remembers every detail about his fourth and final turkey to complete Ocala, a Grand Slam. This Rio Grande bird was Florida, is hunted and harvested in May 2015 in where the range Alden, Kansas, with the help of a turkey starts for the hunting guide.

Osceola bird species, and 22 Lake Martin Living

Bishop is fortunate to have friends in the area. On a trip to see them a few years back, he went out hunting and killed an Osceola, which he froze and brought back to be mounted.

The key to the sport is calling, which imitates the sound of a hen to intrigue the males to search for breeding opportunities. With the use of a yelp, different noises and sounds are made to draw in the curious gender, whose gobbles typically force hens their way.

“They’re smart animals and extra cautious because almost everything will eat them, but they’re also curious, especially with a possible female nearby,” said Bishop.

Yelps could be made from wood, metal or other materials and also come in the form of a mouthpiece.

Turkeys can hear from about 1/4-mile away and their main defenses are exceptional eyesight and the ability to get airborne rapidly.

“You can call them to you, but even the slightest movement, they’ll see if you change your mind,” said Bishop.

Another technique is to scout the turkeys’ roosting trees or track their movements by returning to the same locations and following footprints.

Bishop also makes sure he collects all shells from his 12-gauge shotgun because he once hunted with a man who said it was bad luck to not.

“I’m not taking any chances. Some days you can do no wrong, and a lot of days you can do no right,” said Bishop.

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Lake Martin Living 23

Free Books!

Ferst Readers to improve local childhood literacy STORY BYAMY PASSARETTI & PHOTOS BY SHANNON MCDUFFIE

D

adeville’s Elaine Toney, and a group of 16 dedicated members, have launched an initiative to increase childhood literacy and readiness for kindergarten in Tallapoosa County.

The ultimate goal for the newly established Tallapoosa County Ferst Readers program is to sign up every child between the ages of 0 and 5 to receive a free developmentally appropriate book each month.

“There are 2,278 children in that age group here, and our goal was to have 20 percent of them signed up in our first year. We are going to meet that and then some,” said Toney, a lifelong lover of books.

Robin Ferst out of Madison, Georgia, initiated the Ferst Readers program in 1999 with the idea of instilling a lifetime love of reading in children that will also help develop skills for successful learning.

According to Toney, kids from low-income families hear 32 million fewer words from birth to the age of 3 than those from professional homes.

“In Tallapoosa County, 61 percent of homes are considered low-income, and some families do not own a single book suitable for a child,” she added.

Ferst Readers’ members hope to raise the necessary funds to allow children to receive these free books. The only requirement to participate is to have a home address listed in Tallapoosa County. Cost to support one child in the program is a mere $36 for one book per month for a year.

Ferst Readers is hoping to include every child 5 years old and younger within the county, including multiple children per family, on this monthly book distribution.

Along with each book, parents Every Child Should Join receive a monthly newsletter with Elaine Toney, founding tips on reading to and with their member of Tallapoosa children, along with proposed County Ferst Readers, activities to engage youngsters reads a book to her at various ages to better develop grandchildren, Hannah and James Bamberg. language and speech, said Toney.

24 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 25

“The chosen age-specific books are selected annually by educators and experts in the field of early childhood development,” she said.

Reading affects how well children’s brains develop and the earlier they learn, the more successful they are in school, according to the Ferst Readers website.

“I think parents need to read to their children the same book many times for varied reasons. This teaches them about life skills, such as listening and the order of words.

In our county, only 28 percent of the population reaches standard literacy,” said Toney.

Multiple readings also could help children practice forecasting about the story; take note of vocabulary and punctuation; help describe emotions; retell a story and more, she added.

Daycares and Head Start programs may also sign up students through their systems, so that books arrive directly at the schools.

“In order to compare the ability of children to not only read better, but also to have better vocabularies, they need to be able to share common books they have read,” said Toney.

Currently, about 130 kids have signed up in Alexander City and about 80 in Dadeville – those numbers also include some children from Jackson’s Gap, Daviston, Camp Hill and New Site.

“We plan to check in with the schools each year and analyze the data to truly know the effect it will have.

We hope for better literacy readiness for upcoming kindergarteners,” said Sue Paggen, Ferst Readers member.

The real results will likely not be seen for about three to five years, said Toney, and schools are willing to cooperate with tracking the results of readiness.

“We really want to see an improvement, and I think we

will,” said Jane Milton, member of Reading is Fun Left: The frog mascot Ferst Readers. appears at local The Ferst Readers members events to support the meet the first Thursday of each cause; Above: Books month at 1 p.m. in the Dadeville are age appropriate.

Library, and the public is welcome to attend meetings or join the effort.

“Our group needs people with a passion for books and childhood literacy,” said Nancy Wheeler, Ferst Readers member.

The 501(c)(3) organization will host a fishing tournament April 13, and proceeds will go toward the Ferst Readers initiative. Fishing for Ferst will include local high school anglers and be held at Chuck’s Marina, with details to come.

For additional local information or to volunteer, visit the Facebook page Ferst Readers of Tallapoosa County. To register or donate to the association, visit ferstreaders.org.

The address for Ferst Readers is P.O. Box 676, Dadeville AL 26853.

26 Lake Martin Living

Overcome obstacles New program assists first-time homebuyers

I

MONEY MATTERS

f you are dreaming of buying a First-time homebuyers may also benhome for the first time, or haven’t efit from FHA’s Step Up Program, which owned a home within the past 10 helps buyers with down-payment assisyears, a new law could help make tance. The Alabama Housing Finance that dream a reality.

Authority oversees this program that With the steady decline in home purassists moderate-income applicants chases made by first-time homebuyers with a loan of up to 3 percent of the nationwide, several states in the U.S. purchase price of a home that is applied decided to create a First-Time Home toward their down payments. These Buyer Savings Account Program (Second funds are available through a second Chance Savings Account Program for 10-year mortgage that is bundled with those who haven’t owned a home within a 30-year, fixed-rate primary mortgage.

10 years).

To take advantage of this program, the This new program helps buyers save home loan must be financed through an money to be used for their down payAHFA-approved, participating lender.

Audrey Moore ments and closing costs. Lack of availLast, but not least, AHFA has teamed able funds is often the largest obstacle up with Freddie Mac to offer firstfor first-time homebuyers, so this new program time homebuyers an affordable income-subsidy could help them over that hurdle. Alabama’s progrant known as the Freddie Mac Home Possible gram became effective this year.

Advantage. This grant is specifically used toward This savings account can be opened at any bank, a buyer’s closing costs, can be used along with the credit union or other financial institution, and all Step Up Program and does not have to be repaid. primary deposits and any interest earned is The FHA’s Step Up Program and deductible on state taxes. Individuals the Freddie Mac Home Possible may deposit up to $5,000 annuAdvantage grant both have eligially ($10,000 for couples), with a bility requirements, so talk with $50,000 total cap on deposits. a local real estate or mortgage The Alabama Association of professional to see if you Realtors anticipates this new qualify. program will have “a posiUsing one or more of tive net economic impact on these programs, first-time Alabama that would range homebuyers could get the from $2.4 million to $2.6 assistance they need to million annually in economic achieve their dreams of activity due to increased home ownership. home purchases.”

The success of this program Audrey Moore is owner depends largely on people being and qualifying broker of TLC aware of its existence. And, apparREAL ESTATE LLC. She is a ently, they are not thus far. I spoke member of the Board of Directors with representatives from several Lake for the Lake Martin Area Association Martin area banks, and most had not even of RealtorsMLS and is a member of the heard of it. The Association has developed a comDadeville Area Chamber of Commerce. She can be prehensive marketing package for realtors to use reached at audreymoore.TLC@gmail.com, 256-786to get the word out about the program, though; so 0465 and 2129 Moonbrook Dr., Dadeville. more awareness should be forthcoming.

Lake Martin Living 27

Kowaliga Idol raises the Fierce talents vie for top prizes at annual singing competition

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS COURTESY OF JEREMY JEFFCOAT & ASHLEY JACKSON

S

tarting with a mere 17 contestants 11 years ago, Kowaliga Idol has blossomed into a full-blown regional singing competition with nearly 100 performers vying for top prizes and bragging rights.

Mimicking the popular TV show, American Idol, this smaller-scale event occurs over a two-and-a-half-month period from golden-ticket events to competitive rounds of the judges’ chosen finalists.

“It’s really become a social event and something people look forward to each year,” said Jeremy Jeffcoat, general manager of Lake Broadcasting.

Kowaliga Idol is hosted by Kowaliga Country 97.5, a station owned by Lake Broadcasting, and kicks off with qualifying events hosted at a number of bars, restaurants and karaoke nights from all over Central Alabama. Contestants, who must 28 Lake Martin Living

bar

“When we first did this, people were OK. We thought for a small competition the talent was pretty good,” said Tapley. “Now, you hear some performances, and people just blow you away. Some nights you wonder why these people aren’t already being heard on the radio.”

Many Kowaliga Idol winners have in fact gone on to be popular local performers or professional muscians – such as Sid Phelps, Cheri Edwards, Ashley Jackson, Tyler Braden and more.

Jeffcoat said the main show nights at The Rodeo Club have become blow-out successes, and guests are admitted for $7 each night, but must be 21 years old and over. Fans 18-20 years old are also admitted but must pay a $10 cover charge.

The first weekend of March 1-2, contestants are split between the two nights, and each performer chooses one song to sing.

The second round will be a movie soundtrack theme where contestants are given a list of options from which to choose. On the third round, the remaining entries will sing two songs per night – one song from Kowaliga Country 97.5’s hit list and one song from B101’s adult contemporary/pop station.

“The finals usually come down to the top 12 or 13 people, as singers are eliminated each round,” said Jeffcoat.

In the final round, judges will choose the closing songs, from any genre, for finalists based on their specific talents.

“How well the song fits the artists is very important. If I could give advice, I would remind performers to choose songs that are in their ranges the entire way through,” said Tapley. “Pick a song that you can sing great.”

Along with the increase in entries, said Jeffcoat, the prizes have gotten bigger and better. There are cash prizes, recording studio time, trips to Nashville and other impressive wins.

The first-place winner ends up with about $2,500-$5,000 in cash and prizes. The top five contestants receive the more impressive gifts, but everyone who makes the finals receives a prize package.

For more information on Kowaliga Idol or performance dates, visit The Kowaliga Country Facebook page.

Tough Competition

Clockwise from left: Jackson was last year's Idol winner; The Rodeo Club hosts the main events, which are well attended; Ashley Jackson rocks the stage.

be at least 16 years old, earn golden tickets for consideration on the main stage at The Rodeo Club in Dadeville.

“For the opening weekend at Rodeo Club, we take however many ticket-holders receive approval at qualifying events. There is no limit to initial entrants,” said Jeffcoat.

Over the course of the four weeks in March, there will be performances each Friday and Saturday night at The Rodeo Club for spectators to enjoy and judges to wean out the competition.

“We’re really judging on vocals and what they can do from night to night,” said Jason Tapley, a seasoned judge for Kowaliga Idol. “It’s about the overall performance, song choice, accuracy and consistency in bringing a top performance week after week.”

Tapley and Tina Marie are standing judges each year, and a third one is a rotating guest that could be a past Idol winner or other local artist, which adds to the anticipation and variety of the events.

As an experienced vocal coach, Tapley said, he often hears nuances other judges may not. He added that the quality of talent has increasingly improved each year.

Lake Martin Living 29

Nabors named Trustee of the Year

J

ames D. “Jim” Nabors, chairman of the board of Community Hospital in its annual Chairman Honored Jim Nabors (center) trustees with Russell Medical in Alexander City, was publication, as well. In addition, the with Russell Medical recently honored by the Alabama Hospital Association facility continues to meet and exceed attendees including at its annual Leadership Forum as the 2019 benchmarks in quality board members Trustee of the Year. Nabors was selected from and safety measures, Hugh Neighbors III, statewide nominations for his exemplary service as well as patient Thomas Radney and to his hospital, its patients and to the community. satisfaction scores.

Ralph Frohsin.

“In today’s challenging environment, having Nabors is the second smart community leaders engaged with their trustee from Russell local hospitals is critical,” said Donald E. Medical to be recognized with this honor. James Williamson, M.D., president of the Alabama W. Brown, the first administrator of the hospital Hospital Association. “It’s evident that Mr. Nabors’ and a board member since 1981, was honored in leadership has not only been important to his local 2012. hospital, but also to the citizens of Alexander City.”

We are proud and grateful to our dedicated Owen Bailey, board chairman for the Alabama board members for their leadership and Hospital Association presented the award to commitment to Russell Medical, and we applaud Nabors during the annual assembly of hospital Mr. Nabors for this esteemed recognition. executives and trustees. In receiving this award, Throughout February, Russell Medical will offer it was noted that Nabors retired as the CFO of three important heart screenings. The cardiac CT Susan Foy Russell Corporation and that he came out of for calcium scoring, carotid artery ultrasound and retirement twice to fill two critical roles in his echocardiogram all assess changes in the heart and community. The first was to serve as superintendent of the can detect coronary artery disease before symptoms develop. school system, and he now currently serves as Alexander The screenings take just a few minutes to conduct. A copy of City’s mayor where he voluntarily receives no compensation. the test will be sent to one of four cardiologists, in addition to He has served on the Russell Medical Board for 21 years the patient’s primary care physician. Costs may vary from $90 and has chaired its board for the last 12 years. Additionally, to $125, depending on the screening test, and are not covered he became one of the first certified trustees by the Alabama by insurance. Appointments are required, and payments for Hospital Association in 2014. the screenings must be made prior to the tests. Please contact Since 2007, when Nabors assumed the chairman’s role, Russell Medical Scheduling at 256-329-7826 to schedule and Russell Medical has received several notable awards, including register for these screenings. being named a Top 100 Hospital and receiving the Everest Award by Thomson Reuters in 2011. Becker’s Hospital ~ Susan Foy is marketing director for Russell Medical.

Review has consistently named Russell Medical as a Top 100 30 Lake Martin Living

Medical News

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4th Annual Polar Plunge Jan. 19, 2019 Kowaliga Restaurant 1. Saylor and Jason Neese 2. John Thompson, Tonya Holland, Dwight

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Henderson, Tammy McVicker, John Dark and Ken Holland 3. Joni Price 4. Sandy Littleford and Dawn Reeves 5. Bridget Dismukes, Kenny Fuller, Kim Herring and Lindsey Fuller 6. Lizi Arbogast and Scott Hardy 7. Barbara Sokol and Tal East

Lake Martin Living 31

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Lake Martin Aviators Meet and Greet Jan. 26, 2019 Jackson's Gap 1. Ella and Dale MacFiggen 2. Nancy Spraggins Hodges and Annie Bartol 3. Hal Brock and Jake Norotsky 4. Brian Dodson and Maury and David Miller 5. Karen and Michael Oldfield and Paige Patterson

32 Lake Martin Living

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Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet Jan. 24, 2019 White Acres Farms 1. Melonie Laymon and Ezell Smith

2. Phil Blasingame and Clayton and Abby Guy 3. Matt Haughn, Cheryl Haggerty, Tuba Haughn and

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Savanah Haggerty 4. GW Warren and Kurt Pfitzner 5. Wayne Smith and Michael Bruce 6. Julie Harbin and Randy Dawkins 7. Paul and Dianna Porter 8. Amy Keyser, Chris Kruggel, Lee Pitchford, Kathy Freeman, Greg Harris, Jane Garrett Harris, Blaine Freeman, Eva Decker, Milan Harris, Dawn de la Cruz and Bob Huhn Lake Martin Living 33

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Alexander City Arts' Heart

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Behind the Music Reception Jan. 24, 2019 Valley National Bank 1. Jesse and Barbara Cunningham 2. Ellen Martin and Keith Lankford 3. Kim Walls, Tamara Day and Gloria Poole 4. Jack Hitchcock and Gail Zeanah 5. Steve Bryan and Pat Bice 6. Beverly Thomas and Karen Kison

34 Lake Martin Living

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Martin Luther King Jr. Parade

Jan. 21, 2019 Downtown Alexander City 1. Rachel Kendrick, Elik Spivey, Maykala Kelley and Jeanette Gamble 2. Jasmine Harrell, Jayven Jackson and Zion and Tasqun Harrell 3. Belinda Holley, Pamela Ward and Darlene Johnson 4. Annie Kendrick and Matha Phillips 5. Austin Cunningham and De’Anthony Russell 6. Marcel Ballard and Timirion Lawson 7. Angela and Cashmere Minniefield

Lake Martin Living 35

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

An Evening of Entertainment Russell Medical hosts Circus of New Orleans An evening of entertainment, magic and amazement is coming to The Mill Two Eighty on Feb. 23. The Russell Medical Foundation will sponsor Crescent Circus of New Orleans to present a mini circus-styled event at 6 p.m. Some of the attractions will include roving magicians, knife throwers, mind readers and more.

Tickets to the event are $100, which includes an open bar, cocktail reception with pre-show entertainment and a seated, plated dinner. The main event featuring the Crescent Circus will begin at 8 p.m.

Cocktail attire is requested.

Tables of 10 seats are available at $1,000. All proceeds from the evening will benefit programs and patient services at Russell Medical. For tickets, contact Tammy Jackson at 256-215-7459.

The Mill Two Eighty is located at 3562 U.S. Highway 280 in Alexander City.

36 Lake Martin Living

Feb. 14-17

Love Letters

Take your valentine to dinner and a show at Alexander City Theatre II on Feb. 14. Tickets are $70 per person and include a catered dinner, wine and a rose for the ladies, followed by A.R. Gurney’s Pulitzer Prize finalist, Love Letters, featuring Nancy Hodges and Kenneth Cochran in the roles of Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III. Dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. at the ACT II Fine Arts Center, 216 Tallapoosa St. Tickets are $15 for the Feb. 15 and Feb. 17 shows with no dinner. The Friday night show will begin at 7 p.m. with Pat Bice and Ron Davenport on stage, followed by a wine and cheese reception courtesy of Ocie & Belle’s. The Feb. 17 matinee will begin at 2 p.m. with the husband-and-wife team of John and Jan Jung. For reservations for the dinner show, call 256-749-8073 or visit brownpapertickets.com. Tickets for the Feb. 15 and 17 shows are available at brownpapertickets.com or at the door.

Feb. 16

Women’s Only Personal Protection Reunion United Martial Arts Academy will host a free alumni reunion and refresher course for all women who have completed the tactical protection class. It’s also open to all new students.

From 9 a.m. to noon, women will learn the mindset, tools and skills to put the odds back in their favor by learning basic protection techniques. United Martial Arts Academy is located at 155 Alabama St. in Alexander City. For information, call 256-329-9199.

Feb. 17

Lake Watch Annual Meeting

Lake Watch Lake Martin will host its annual meeting from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the StillWaters Residential Association Center with a social following. The keynote speaker will be Cindy Lowry, executive director of the Alabama Rivers Alliance, who will provide an update on the development of a statewide water plan and a recent court ruling on relicensing of Coosa River dams and its relevance to Lake Martin. Register at lakewatch.org. Click on “Events;” and then, click “Please register.” For more information, email info@lakewatch.org.

Feb. 18

Horizons Unlimited

Dr. Marty Olliff will present The Great War in the Heart of Dixie from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education, located at 375 Lee St. Membership to Horizons Unlimited is $20 per person and $30 per couple.

Feb. 18-19

Living History Auditions

Alexander City Theatre II will partner with Russell Medical Foundation for a Living History Cemetery Tour and arts event this spring. ACT II will hold auditions for the history tour portion of the event, featuring historic local figures, including the city’s founder, James Young, Roberta McDonald Russell, William Benson, Ralph Frohsin, Louise Day, Hamp Lyon, Bill Hardy and others.

Auditions will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday at the ACT II Fine Arts Center, 216 Tallapoosa St., Alexander City. For a complete list of characters and more information, visit the Alexander City Theatre II Facebook page or email actheatreii@gmail.com.

Feb. 23

Russell Forest Run

The 10th annual 10K run will be held through Russell Forest and benefits the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. Runners have the opportunity to traverse roads mixed with sand, clay and gravel and experience the beauty of nature.

Participants will enjoy the famous afterrace party at The Stables. A 5K gives runners a similar experience, without traveling through Heaven Hill. The 10K starts at 7:45 a.m. from the Town Green at Russell Crossroads, and the 5K kicks off 10 minutes later. Tickets are $40 per runner. Online registration is now open at runsignup.com. Day-of registration is $45. For information about the race, visit russellforestrun.com.

Feb. 25

Horizons Unlimited

Dr. Thomas Ward will present To Treat and to Train Tuskegee’s John Andrew Clinic from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education, located at 375 Lee St. Membership to Horizons Unlimited is $20 per person or $30 per couple.

Feb. 25-26

Throw Away Day

The Tallapoosa County Commission will sponsor Throw Away Days, and dumpsters will be available to the public at no charge. The following items are not allowed: liquids (including paint, paint thinner, pesticides, etc.), appliances with compressors (including air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, etc.), tires, batteries, lightbulbs, TVs, computers, propane tanks and hazardous or medical waste. Dumpsters will be located at Alex City Annex, 395 Lee St.; Double Bridges on state Route. 63; Eagle Creek Road and Main Street intersection in Jackson’s Gap; Young’s Ferry Road and Gibson Road intersection; and Union Community Center.

March 2

Lake Martin Clean-up Walk

Meet at 8:30 a.m. for breakfast from Dirt Road Gourmet and supplies from Lake Martin Resource Association.

Bring your own gloves. There are four main areas that will be covered that morning. Contact Sue Ann McMahan at 334-201-5540 to help clean up state Route 63 from Kowaliga Bridge north to Russell Crossroads. Meet at Kowaliga VFD Station 1 to clean up Prospect Road and Prospect Road Cut-off. To clean up the state Route 229 in the Red Hill area, meet at Dirt Road Gourmet and contact Reuben Thornton at 334857-3521 for more information. Meet at 9 a.m. at Kowaliga VFD Station 2 to clean up Kamp Kiwanis Road, county Road 80 to Lake Point. Contact Jodie McGirt at 334-202-1730 for information on this area. All four teams will finish around 12 p.m. and return to Dirt Road Gourmet to dump trash and enjoy a hot dog cookout.

March 4

Horizons Unlimited

Suzannah Solomon Wilson will present Alabama Cemeteries and Other Things from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Alexander City Board of Education, located at 375 Lee St. Membership to Horizons Unlimited is $20 per person or $30 per couple.

March 11

Fatherguard: Open Hand to Hand CQB

United Martial Arts Academy will host a men’s training camp from 6 p.m.

Lake Martin Living 37

to 9 p.m. to learn basic techniques for personal protection and protecting others. United Martial Arts is located at 155 Alabama St. in Alexander City. For more information, call 256-329-9199.

March 12

Coosa Chamber of Commerce Open House

Stop by the new Coosa Chamber of Commerce office at the E-911 Building in Rockford between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to congratulate the business community on this endeavor. Snacks will be provided.

March 16

13th Annual Ronald Koon Sporting Clay Classic

Register now for this annual Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area benefit event to be held at Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Sporting Club.

Entry fees for each shooter include a steak dinner and Calcutta Auction at the Alexander City Elks Lodge at 6 p.m.

Friday; practice shoot on Friday night or early Saturday morning; a shotgun raffle ticket; breakfast, lunch and snacks on the day of the shoot; shotgun shells; a T-shirt and door prizes. The four-man team sponsorship ($700) includes a logo on the welcome banner and leader board and inclusion in event advertising. The two-shooter team entry fee is $350; individuals may enter for $175 each. Sign sponsorships also are available. Email Misty Chadwick at chadwick.misty05@gmail.com for registration forms and details.

March 22

Jon Conlee

Country music star Jon Conlee will perform live at The Rodeo Club in Dadeville from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Between 1974 and 2004, Conlee charted 32 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts and recorded 11 albums. For more information, visit The Rodeo Club Facebook page.

March 23

Anniversary of the Battle of Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park will host its 205th anniversary of the Battle of Horseshoe Bend from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This anual event recreates traditional Creek Indian life, frontier life in 1814 and emphasizes 38 Lake Martin Living

the importance of the battle in U.S. history through special demonstrations and interpretative programs. This event is free and open to the public.

A refreshment stand will be available courtesy of the New Site Volunteer Fire Department. For more information, visit nps.gov/hobe or Horseshoe Bend National Military Park Facebook page.

The park is located at 11288 Horseshoe Bend Rd. in Daviston.

March 23-24

Lake Martin Unltrarun

Runners will have the option in 27-, 50- and 100-mile races through the rocky, elevated Russell Forest Trail System. Sign up by March 9 for a racing T-shirt. Participates will check in Friday to pick up race packets at Harbor Lodge. For $13, a premeeting dinner is offered at Hrabor Lodge and you must reserve a spot by March 15. Dinner starts at 5:15 with meeting to follow. An optional prerace breakfast will be available for $5.

For more information or to sign up, visit southeasterntrailruns.com/lakemartin-100.

Season-Long Events Alabama Wildlife Federation Naturalist Hikes

Every Tuesday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m, hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced Alabama Nature Center naturalist by your side. Learn how to bird or identify plants and animals; splash through the creek; or catch insects in the meadow. General admission applies and is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. ANC is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Visit alabamawildlife.org to check closings.

Artists Association Open Studios

Learn about one-stroke painting, pouring and other painting techniques at the Artists Association of Central Alabama open studios from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursdays at the Senior Activities Center at the Sportplex in Alexander City and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Senior Recreation Center in Dadeville.

AACA also sponsors workshops and a demonstration at its montly meeting the third Thursday of each month at the Sportplex Senior Activities Center

in Alexander City. For information, call June Dean 256-373-3324 or Kay Fincher at 256-825-2506.

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 help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-8572008 for information.

Real Island Supper

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

Music at The Equality Performing Arts Center

The EPAC hosts music and other events on the fourth Friday nights of each month at 6:30 p.m. on state Route 9 in Equality. Country/Western, bluegrass, Southern gospel, rock and instrumental music are featured. For information, contact Wayne Glenn at 334-541-3302.

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 pickup supplies and area assignments to help clean up the roads in Alexander City. For more information, contact Jacob Meacham at jacob. meacham@alexandercitychamber.com.

To include your event in Lake Martin Living’s calendar, send details to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, I am writing to tell you that I appreciate everything that you write.

I like being able to know what is going on in the Lake Martin area, especially when I am not there.

Since there is so much to do on the lake, I would like to see more pictures.

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Lake Martin Living 39

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

17

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

13

Flint Hill Church

22

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

11

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Jacksons Gap

Pleasant Grove Church

24

11

9

Mt. Zion Church Russell Farms Baptist Church 25 Friendship Church New Hope Church

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

20

7

6

Smith Landing

Seman

Camp Kiwanis

9

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

10 1

Church in The Pines

Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko w

ali

ga

2

Stillwaters

Union Landing

Ba

22 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

18 5

21

Walnut Hill

y

19 23

80

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing

4

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

8 63 16 9

Equality

55

15

57

Willow Point

231

Dadev

280

Liberty Church

20

24

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

14

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic Santuck Kent

Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

40 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

22

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

hoe Bend nal Park

6 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026 7 Smith Marina 256-444-8793

smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com

Restaurants

CHAMBERS COUNTY

ville

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

50

Camp Hill

8 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Business & Shopping 11 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481

5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, Al 35010 12 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

280

Waverly 50

12

13 Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 14 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

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

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 18 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853 19 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 20 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt @ Smith Marina 256-444-8793

Hotels & Lodges 21 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches 22 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853

Dock Builders 23 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 24 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment 25 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

15 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 16 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

LEE COUNTY

Loachapoka 14

Notasulga

ON TY

85 81

If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-414-3033. Space is limited.

Lake Martin Living 41

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

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

ALEXANDER CITY

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 USAmeribank 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

42 Lake Martin Living

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

ECLECTIC

Bezlo's Cafe 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

Southern Star Alpaca Fashions

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

SCARVES • SOCKS GLOVES • BLANKETS • RUGS • YARN STUFFED ANIMALS & MORE!

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

Store Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm • Sat. 8:00 am to 2:00 pm

PRECIOUS MEMORIES GIFTS & MORE 10147 County Road 34 • Dadeville, AL

256-496-4017

Monogramming Boutique Clothing Jewelry Bathing Suits & More Lake Martin Living 43

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

WOODCRAFTS

QUALITY, CUSTOM-BUILT

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE Heating & Cooling Central Alabama for over 30 Years • Installation • Equipment Replacement • Filtration • Duct Work & Humidifers • Remote Home Automation

• 60 MONTHS, NO INTEREST *for qualified buyers*

AL#11024

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

www.advancedheatingandac.com 1096 Airport Drive | Alexander City AL | 256.392.4866

44 Lake Martin Living

haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

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

Liveoak Agency, Inc............................................................................ 5

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

Millstone Nursery................................................................................. 6

Beyond Home Care.............................................................................. 8

Noel Boone........................................................................................44

Bob Alexander Landscaping ................................................................ 5

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery................................................... 4 3

Bolton Cove.......................................................................................23

O'Neal Electric................................................................................... 3 9

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation......................................................... 4 2 C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 4 2 Cahaba Glass....................................................................................... 8 DAVCO Development........................................................................ 4 4 Designs by Trish................................................................................... 6 Four Seasons..................................................................................... 4 4 George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 6 Gilbert Woodcrafts.............................................................................44 Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance...................................................... 4 4 Heritage South Credit Union................................................................ 3

Precious Memories Monogramming & Boutique.................................43 Prime Management............................................................................. 8 Professional Plumbing Service............................................................45 Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6 River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 4 4 Russell Medical.................................................................................. 4 8 Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................. 3 9 Southern Sash..................................................................................... 5 Southern Star Alpaca Farm.................................................................43

Jackson Thornton............................................................................... 5

Surgical Dermatology......................................................................... 2 3

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

Sunrise Docks...................................................................................... 3

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

Swearingen Fence.............................................................................. 4 2

Lacey Howell/ReMax...........................................................................2

Wealthmark Financial Solutions...........................................................23

Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 19, 44

Wind Creek Casino.............................................................................47

Lake Martin Living 45

Journey for a snowy adventure

S

Culture Shock

pring may be right around the corner here is always live music and Ski Slopes Telluride, Colorado on Lake Martin, but many Southerners head happy hour. is a must-go west to explore some of the best mountains My least favorite aspect destination for in the world, myself included. There are a lot about skiing is the snow skiing. of Alabamians and Alexander City residents who lifts. I did not know I had hit the slopes every year. an adult-acquired fear of It's surprising any of us find our way to the slopes heights, but I do. I push through it. Now, years given that our own January snow day was warm later, I am at least able to do some blue runs and sunny. Tallapoosa County attracts outdoor (intermediate) without crying. Because I would enthusiasts from all over the country, and those rather go and cry than get left behind on a trip. My people are looking for adventure on and off the FOMO (fear of missing out) has always driven me water. to be more adventurous than I really am.

There is a huge misconception in the South that Did you know that you could learn to snow ski waterskiing and snow skiing are the same. I did not in Alabama? Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort is snow ski as a kid. I went for the first time when I located in Mentone, Alabama. I have not personally was in my 20s. It went better than anticipated, and I been there yet, but I think it sounds awesome and Lacey Howell owe all credit to the Montgomery Eastdale Mall icehave only heard good things. They blow their own skating rink. The movement is more like ice-skating snow. The resort is more 800 acres with outdoor than water skiing. activities and year-round rentals of cabins and Learning to ski ... so many stories from the first trip to Park chalets. Cloudmont Ski Resort is open seasonally, as weather City, Utah. I encourage anyone going for the first time to take a permits, daily during season from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and nightly lesson. (Do not let your spouse teach you). You will walk away from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. I can’t think of a better weekend getaway, at least knowing how and what a great way to to stop. When in great introduce kids to skiing. distress, which I have In fact, I should head up Ski towns out west to put on your bucket list: found myself in before, there for a good warmup Jackson Hole, Wyoming • Telluride, Colorado simply throw your body before my trip!

Vail, Colorado • Aspen Snowmass, Colorado down and hope for the Whistler-Blackcomb, British Columbia • Park City, Utah best. ~ Lacey Howell is a Steamboat, Colorado • Crested Butte, Colorado I think what has kept recovering English major Big Sky, Montana • Breckinridge, Colorado me going back over the from Auburn who now years is the sheer fact lives on Lake Martin, sells that I like the vibe. The real estate, rides horses Southern ski resorts within driving distance: scenery is unreal, and the and loves good wine Beech Mountain Resort, North Carolina atmosphere is unmatched, (but isn't scared of boxed Timberline Four Seasons, West Virginia along with the the aprèswine). She is still bothered Snowshoe Mountain, West Virginia ski (a social activity – as that Brad and Angelina Wintergreen Resort, Virginia at a ski lodge – after a broke up. Follow her on Sugar Mountain Resort, North Carolina day’s skiing). At the end of Facebook and Instagram the day, when the slopes @LaceyHowell.

Ober Gaitlinburg, Tennessee are starting to close, there 46 Lake Martin Living

MAKE IT A DATE! T

reat your sweetheart to an amazing dinner at Itta Bena restaurant and a FREE appetizer on us. Then after dinner, head on out to the casino floor for some great gaming action. With the highest payouts in the region, you’re sure to have a night to remember! Call 334-514-5129 for reservations.

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1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd., Montgomery, AL | WindCreekMontgomery.com ©2019 Wind Creek Hospitality. Must be 21 or older. Offer valid for Rewards Members only. See PLAYER SERVICES for details.

Lake Martin Living 47

Cardiology Services at FEB. HEART MONTH SCREENINGS Calcium-Score Heart Scan- $90 •CT Scan providing enhanced 3D heart images •Non-invasive way of obtaining information about presence, location, and extent of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries Stroke Prevention Screening - $75 •Carotid Artery Ultrasound •Detects thickening of the artery walls that lead to stroke Echocardiogram - $125 •Ultrasound generates 3D moving images of the heart •Assesses the chambers and valves of the heart and functionality A copy of your test results will be sent to one of Russell Medical’s cardiologists and your primary care physician.

Ross Davis, MD

Joseph Deering, MD

Brian Foley, MD

Kevin Sublett, MD

A simple test could save your life.

We urge you to schedule your appointment today.

Payment options will be available when scheduling. Please indicate Heart Month screening when you call.

(256)329-7826 3316 HWY 280 ALEX CITY, AL 35010 Don’t Skip A Beat GET CHECKED TODAY www.russellcares.com