Lake Magazine May 2016

MAY 2016

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Letter from the Editor

ay Day was always a big deal when I was a child. The first day of May meant the beginning of early morning bike rides through the neighborhoods, backyard ball games and meeting friends at the local swimming hole. It also meant the ritual of the May Day basket.

When my siblings and I came in from school on May Day afternoon, our mother had already been hard at work in the kitchen all day. She’d been making cookies and candies and popcorn, and she had a stack of construction paper, markers, ribbons, staplers and glue ready for us in the next room.

We set right to work. For the next hour or so, we fashioned that stack of construction paper into brightly colored trays, door hanger cones and baskets of woven paper trimmed with flowing ribbons.

My mother mixed the candy and cookies into the popcorn and spooned the goodies into our proudly displayed dishes. And when all was full, we slipped out the back door and slinked between the houses around the block with our baskets of sweets – we didn’t want our mission to be discovered by anyone.

We left our tasty treats on the doorsteps of all of our neighbors, ringing the doorbells or knocking and running away before they answered. The object of the game was to leave our gifts in secret.

Of course, our friends all around the block were playing the same game. While we were leaving baskets of goodies on their doorsteps, they were leaving treats on ours and sneaking away with clandestine acuity. It was the May Day tradition.

We have just such a delightful May Day tradition here at Lake magazine, too. Every year, we fill the May issue with treats to last you all summer long.

There are previews of upcoming concerts and festivals, art shows and fundraisers and things to do and see at Lake Martin this summer. This is the annual Summer Calendar issue of Lake, and we’ve filled it with events to help you make the most of your precious time at the lake from now until Labor Day. The calendar begins on page 24, but the fun will last for four wonderful months, so be sure to keep this issue of Lake on the coffee table at the cabin as a handy reference for entertainment options every day. Pick up an extra copy to keep on the boat, so you’ll be able to find your fun anytime anywhere on Lake Martin this summer.

And be sure to return the favor, just as we did on May Day as children. Take pictures of the places you go and the things you do at Lake Martin. And take Lake magazine with you when you travel. Send your photos to us at editor@lakemartinmagazine. com, and we’ll share them on our Lake Scenes and Where Is Lake? pages all summer long.

Summer is sweet at the lake!

Staff Editor & Publisher KENNETH BOONE

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Managing Editor BETSY ILER

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Assistant Magazine Editor MIA OSBORN

mia.osborn@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing/Advertising Director TIPPY HUNTER

tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing Coordinators KIM MORSE

kim.morse@alexcityoutlook.com

EMILY GUILL

emily.guill@alexcityoutlook.com

Circulation Manager DAVID KENDRICK

david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com

Creative Services AUDRA SPEARS

audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com

DARLENE JOHNSON

darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com

HALLIE HOLLOWAY

hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com

Contributors KENNETH BOONE JOHN COLEY HENRY FOY JOHN THOMPSON JULIE HUDSON ROB MCDANIEL

CLIFF WILLIAMS LEE WILLIAMS MITCH SNEED DAVID GRANGER LACEY HOWELL JACOB MEACHAM

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

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

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor 4 LAKE

MAY 2016

On the Cover Cover: The style and amenities of this landmark home on the North Ridge point - now on the market at more than $5 million focus on the quality of life that is uniquely Lake Martin. Join Lake magazine for a tour of the estate on page 50 of this issue.

Photo by Kenneth Boone

MAY 2016

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Contents 24. SUMMERTIME ON LAKE MARTIN A listing of events, activities and festivals at the lake from now until Labor Day 38. WORSHIP ON THE WATER The speaker and service schedules for Lake Martin's outdoor churches this summer

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44. WOOL SOWER GALL It's a flower! It's a marshmallow! It's a – WASP NEST?! But don't worry, it won't hurt you 50. SUNRISE TO SUNSET A look inside a Lake Martin landmark now on the market at $5.75 million 62. DIXIE SAILING CLUB After four years at New Hope, the Lake Martin club will launch a youth sailing program 68. LAKE Q&A: VICKI TUGGLE Meet the new special events coordinator at Lake Martin's Children's Harbor

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LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES:

e

- edition

50

9. LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE

74. LMRA

TO THE LAKE

76. FAB FINDS

10. LAKE SCENES

80. BIG CATCHES

12. WHERE IS LAKE?

82. CHEF'S TABLE

14. LAKE MARTIN NEWS

83. HEALTHY LIVING

18. GEO 101

84. FROM THE CELLAR

44. NATURE OF THE LAKE

87. PRO TIPS & ANOTHER

67. LAKE PROPERTY

GOOD LIE

73. BEHIND THE BOAT

Lake magazine also features an online, digital edition, available 24 hours a day, free of charge. This edition is perfect to share with friends and family and provides you complete access to stories, photos and advertisements from anywhere in the world with Internet access. View our digital edition today at www.issuu.com.

MAY 2016

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MAY 2016

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Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators Sales Month March 2016 March 2013 March 2010

Number of sales

Average selling price

Median selling price

Days on the market

Total houses for sale

Inventory/ sales ratio

27 17 17

$519,386 $557,883 $589,324

$430,000 $399,000 $510,000

122 265 189

326 382 490

11.34 20.56 27.48

The above numbers are derived from raw sales data from the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors MLS.The sales noted above are for Lake Martin waterfront residential (single family and condominium) sales only. This information is provided courtesy Lake Martin Realty, LLC. (A Russell Lands, Inc. affiliated company.)

Relicensing Fast Facts

This Month's Fishing Forecast For many local fish, May is the tail end of the spring spawning season. The first part of the month will see plenty of fish in the shallows, but they will move deeper as the water continues to heat up. Exceptions are bream – which begin to spawn in early May – and catfish, which won’t move to shallow spawning depths until the end of the month.

Night fishing is a very good option this month, according to Randy Baker of Fish Tales Bait & Tackle in Alexander City.

“Right now, you can catch saltwater stripe and white bass around pier lights if you want to night fish,” Baker said.

For those who don’t have piers or prefer daytime fishing, early morning and late afternoon are the best times to get a bite.

Topwater baits used early in the morning are best for hungry post-spawn bass this month. But other baits, such as Carolina rigs, crankbaits and the basic worm should also yield good results.

“Your best bet is night fishing if you want to catch numbers of fish,” said Baker. “But there’s still morning and afternoon, too.”

It’s not too early to start the permitting process if you plan to add or make changes to a seawall next fall or winter. According to the Martin Dam operation license issued last December, Alabama Power Company must add a step to the process of issuing seawall permits, and that could add time to the review of applications, said Hydro Services Manager Jim Crew.

The new requirements address wildlife protection and shoreline erosion concerns, Crew said.

“This is by no means a prohibition on seawalls; it’s another step to go through to conclude whether or not a seawall is appropriate,” Crew explained.

During the environmental impact study conducted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) purported that seawalls could inhibit certain wildlife movements from shore to land. DCNR requested a limitation on seawall construction; however, in many cases, seawalls are necessary to protect shoreline from erosion.

“We just need to make sure a seawall is the most logical thing to do for that particular area,” Crew said. “In some cases, riprap might do the job, but in a lot of other cases, seawalls might be needed to protect the shoreline.”

To find out more, visit the Alabama Power Company shoreline office at 225 Lafayette St. East, Dadeville, or call 256-825-0053.

Lake Levels During the Last month

Lake Martin's Weather Outlook for May

Summer: 491 MSL Winter: 481 MSL Highest: 490.60 Lowest: 488.61 Lake elevations are subject to change. Individuals who recreate below Martin Dam and those with boats and water-related equipment on the lake should always stay alert to changing conditions.

Year to Date

For up-to-date lake levels, log on to https://lakes.alabamapower.com.

Precipitation: 21.73 inches Avg. high temp.: 63.7 Avg. low temp.: 39.2 Average temp.: 51.4

Our Normal May Precipitation: 4.33 inches Avg. high temp.: 82 Avg. low temp.: 57 Average temp.: 70 MAY 2016

May 2016 Forecast

Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the low 80s with lows in the high 50s and about 4 inches of precipitation in the month of May. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be above average this month with slightly above average rainfall.

Information from the National Weather Service.

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LAKE SCENE

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

PEOPLE AND PLACES

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Reader Submissions (1) Virginia McClendon, 4, loves the lake life! (2) The first light of day hits the Smith Mountain fire tower in this photo by Jared Stacey. (3) Rhett Farrior sent this photo of sundown on Dead Timbers Bay. (4) The Gainer family planted this camellia in honor of their daughter, Monique Gainer.

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MAY 2016

LAKE SCENE

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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PEOPLE AND PLACES

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Reader Submissions (1) Randy McClendon sent this photo in honor of his late dog, Missy, who loved pontoon boat rides. (2) Scott Morrison wakeboarding on Dennis Creek. (3) The sun burns through a shroud of fog in this shot taken from Tucker's Point. (4) This gulf frittilary butterfly enjoys a lakeside snack. (5) Kyle Thornton sent us this photo of Catherine's Market on a bright spring day.

MAY 2016

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WHERE IN THE WORLD IS LAKE?

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

PEOPLE AND PLACES

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Reader Submissions (1) Marilee McNeely took Lake to Key West, Florida, to celebrate her birthday. (2) This year's bridal issue took a ski trip to Breckinridge, Colorado, with Kevin, Mac and Ann Ellison and Leslie Crawford. (3) Ana, Borut and granddaughter Nina Mavko took Lake to visit Planica ski jump center in Slovenia. (4) Catherine Davis, Sally Chapman, George Lumpkin, Kattie Hocutt, Jenny Robertson, Eleanor Porch, Sharon Anderson and Mike and Wanda Wheeler took Lake to Jekyll Island Faith Chapel in Savannah, Georgia. (5) Nina and Tony Johnson and Cindy and Charles Gillenwaters took Lake to Tybee Island, Georgia. (6) Friends Joe and Sybil Richardson, Ernie and Nancy Darr and Todd and Amy Clark took Lake south of the border to Ixtapa, Mexico.

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Serving gourmet Southern cuisine with a side of Beale Street ambience, Itta Bena is bringing food back to its savory roots. Located inside Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Montgomery, you can enjoy flavorful favorites like jumbo lump crab cakes and Prime steaks, plus whatever piques your interest from our extensive fine wine list and delicious dessert menu. If you’re looking for a good evening, make a date with Itta Bena.

Call (866) WIND-360 for reservations.

FIND YOUR WINNING MOMENT. 1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd., Montgomery, AL WindCreekMontgomery.com

Š 2016 Wind Creek Hospitality.

MAY 2016

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Lake Martin News Zipline construction begins at Wind Creek State Park A zipline adventure will soon top the list of things for visitors to do at Wind Creek State Park.

Construction will begin early this summer at the Lake Martin state park on aerial ecotourism adventures, which will eventually include ziplines and other attractions.

The new attractions to Wind Creek will be the result of a partnership between the Alabama State Parks System, Historic Banning Mills – a 501 (c)3 conservation center in Banning, Georgia – and American Adventure Park Systems of Whitesburg, Georgia.

Wind Creek Superintendent Bruce Adams said the zipline will be a good addition to amenities already in existence at the park, as well as a benefit to the local economy.

“Some of this stuff was put on hold last year when we had the budget issues,” said Adams. “We heard back in February that they were going to proceed with some of the projects. It’s going to be a great thing.

“I went over to Banning Mills and, as old as I am, I rode one of their ziplines. It was a lot of fun. It’s going to be a big attraction. I think it will help with the local economy, too.

They will be hiring skilled staff. The staff I met at Banning Mills was top-notch.”

Greg Lein, director of Alabama’s state park system, said the additions at Wind Creek and the other parks will be just the latest example of the system’s public-private partnerships, most of which have proved successful in attracting customers.

“We have numerous private partnerships at our parks around the state,” said Lein. “Our existing concession agreements have been very successful and have helped attract tens of thousands of guests to our parks. We expect the new aerial attractions to be equally successful and bring new visitors to our incredible parks.”

No taxpayer money or funds from Alabama State Parks are being used in the construction of these attractions.

The vendors were chosen after a competitive bid process.

Historic Banning Mills will complete construction of its first zipline in an Alabama State Park in May at Lake Guntersville State Park. In addition to Wind Creek, it will also build a zipline and other aerial attractions at Cheaha State Park, including what it hopes to be the world’s lon14 LAKE

gest zipline at 8,000 feet.

Ziplines and other aerial adventures have minimal environmental impact and significantly less impact on the natural environment than building trails. These recreational amenities give adventure seekers an opportunity to experience the natural, undisturbed landscape from a unique point of view. ~ David Granger

Pro angler visits Girls Ranch Bass fisherman extraordinaire Hank Parker blindly accepted Nick Rauccio's invitation to support The Boys and Girls Ranches of Alabama by helping celebrate the ranches’ 50th anniversary. But after a recent visit to Camp Hill’s Sheriff’s Girls Ranch, his reason for being there became clear.

“I am not real sure why I agreed to come,” Parker said. “I am a fisherman, and this is very much out of my element, but I looked at these girls and became very emotional.”

Rauccio said the group operates four ranches in the state and has served thousands of children since 1966.

“We have raised over Wind Creek State Park will 8,000 children and had soon boast a zipline along short term placement with camping and fishing of touching the lives of over 10,000 children,” Rauccio said. “It is a blessing that children have a place to turn to when things are not going quite right. We provide that service. Longterm child care service is what we do. We are the best at it in the state of Alabama. We are an Alabama charity touching Alabama children.”

Parker shared with the girls and others at the Girls Ranch that his childhood was much like that of some of the residents of the Sheriff’s ranches in the state.

“You see, I am a high school dropout,” Parker shared.

“I was raised by a drug addict mom and a drunk for a father. I was voted most unlikely to succeed.”

Parker shared with the girls that the foundation is not a reason for a horrible life.

“Regardless of where your beginning foundation was poured, all that can be changed,” Parker said. “I have had an incredible life. If you search the record books and the hall of fame, you would say Hank Parker is successful, but that has nothing to do with my success. My success lies with Jesus Christ.”

MAY 2016

The successful Parker said he saw something in the girls during his visit, and he finally figured out why he came to Alabama.

“When I drove up, it got real clear as to why I am here,” Parker said. “This visit has done a lot for me. You girls are something. You girls are special.” ~ David Granger

Marine Police get new boats Lake Martin boaters will see marine police sporting a new look on the water this summer. Members of the central district of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Marine Police Unit took to the water recently in a new boat that is designed to give the officer more flexibility, maneuverability and speed.

Capt. John Archer said when he first came to the central division, one of the things that was apparent was the need for larger, more modern crafts.

“I had been in South Alabama before coming here, and this is the style we had there,” Archer said. “We found it to be ideally suited for what we are called on to do on a lake the size of Lake Martin, we feel like this will serve the needs much better than what we have used in the past.”

From bow to the bars on the stern that protect the two 220 horsepower outboard engines, the boat measures about 30 feet, with a full 9 meters on the lower profile, semi-rigid boat itself.

The old, enclosed marine police boats will be replaced with breezy new models

Another noticeable difference is the cockpit of the boat. The boats that were previously used on Lake Martin were enclosed. That was not a good fit on summer days when you could fry an egg on the dock around the lake.

The lower profile will be better suited should rescue situations arise, and the boats are equipped with 100-gallon-plus fuel tanks.

“On a lake this size, that’s a great feature,” Archer said. “There are some long days during the season out here, so it’s nice to be able to be out there and not have fuel as a worry.” ~ Mitch Sneed

MAY 2016

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Dead Timber Cove Underwater tree stumps create great fishing on Blue Creek cove

J

ust northeast of Susanna Slough on Lake Martin’s Blue Creek, Dead Timber Cove was named for the field of tree stumps that once dotted the lake there at full pool. GPS coordinates for the area are 32 degrees 46 minutes 02.8 seconds Latitude North and 85 degrees 50 minutes 16.1 seconds Longitude West.

The cove is all residential with some natural and undeveloped shoreline and includes several fish habitat enhancement sites.

“We get a lot of fishermen,” said local resident Rhett Farrior.

While some of the fishing sites have been established through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Christmas tree drop program, the remaining submerged stumps probably contribute to the great fishing in the area.

“A few years ago, the lake went way down, and some of the boys

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MAY 2016

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Timbergut Landing

22

280

Horseshoe Bend National Park

Jaybird Landing

Alexander City

An old tree stands sentinel at Dead Timber Cover off Lake Martin's Blue Creek

Camp ASCCA

9 Flint Hill Church 280

49 22

Jacksons Gap Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek State Park

280 Pleasant Grove Church

11

Alex City Boat Ramp

Mt. Zion Church

259 9

Russell Farms Baptist Church 63

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Friendship Church New Hope Church

20

Dadeville

Bethel Church

128

57

280

Little Martin

Liberty Church

Camp Hill

Smith Landing Willow Point

Pleasant Ridge Church

24

34

63 Camp Alamisco

Equality

Kowaliga Boat Landing

GEOGRAPHY 101

55

Seman

Church in The Pines

Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE Camp Kiwanis

Trillium

Stillwaters

Union Landing

Children’s Harbor The Amp

Ko w

ali

ga

Ba

y

Walnut Hill 50

80

9

Central

90

50

Union

Union Church

Red Hill 63

49 229

Eclectic

Tallassee Kent

Reeltown

cut the stumps off at the then waterline. Now, almost no stumps show when the lake is at minimum pool,” Farrior explained.

The area can be quite scenic, as the early light of day often casts a pink light onto the mist above the water, and the points of land gleam in the last rays of the sun at the end of the day.

The cove lies south of County Road 34 and about 2 miles west of the intersection with State Route 49. Roads into the area include Dead Timber, Hickory Hill and Bow. Some roads in the Holiday Shores area also lead to Dead Timber Cove.

Farrior has lived there since 2004, when he moved from the Perdido Key area of Florida after Hurricane Ivan.

“Here, we have the water without the hurricanes,” he said. “I would hate to have to leave here.”

MAY 2016

LAKE 19

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office 256.329.LAKE (5253) • 5295 Highway 280, Alexander City, AL

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MAY 2016

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MAY 2016

Upgrade Your Summer Let this be the year you upgrade your summer with a new boat from Singleton Marine. And this month… Singleton’s made it easier than ever to get into a new boat with their Upgrade Your Summer Sales Event! With all leftover 2015’s marked down… some by as much as 35%, you better act now… cuz when they’re gone… they… are… gone.

Singleton Marine @ Blue Creek Marina 7280 Highway 49 South Dadeville, AL 36853 855-289-4187

MAY 2016

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A contender for the Largest Flag prize at the boat parade

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MAY 2016

Summertime on Lake Martin May 7 Derby Day at The Stables

mation, contact Matt Haines at 256-794-3074.

Ladies, bring out your hats, and guys, dig out your seersucker for Derby Day at The Stables. Cheer on your favorite horses during this “Run For The Roses” fundraiser for Children’s Harbor and enjoy some great music and refreshments. For details, visit www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com/events, look for Russell Lands on Facebook or call 256-397-1019.

May 10 The Storytelling of Norman Rockwell

Friends of the Dadeville Public Library will sponsor popular storyteller Dolores Hydock’s Every Picture Tells a Story: The Storytelling of Norman Rockwell, at 1:30 p.m. at Red Ridge United Methodist Church, with funding through the Alabama Humanities Foundation’s Road Scholars Speakers Bureau.

Hydock will share a behind-the-scenes look at how Rockwell created his one-image stories in some of his best-loved covers for the Saturday Evening Post. The program is free. For information call 245-825-7820.

May 13-14 Kiwanis Clay Shoot

Join the Alexander City Kiwanis Club at Five Star Plantation for the annual clay shoot competition and fundraiser. Shooters will compete in teams of five. Sign-up for a full team is $800; a half team (which guarantees two shooters) is $400. Individuals can sign up for $160 each. All proceeds support Alexander City schools. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. on May 13 with a light dinner and Calcutta auction. Saturday shoots will begin around 7 a.m., depending upon number of teams. Breakfast and lunch will be available. For more infor-

May 14 Grill Master Program

Learn the art of grilling or pick up new tips, techniques and recipes when the Tallapoosa County Extension Service hosts a Grill Master cooking class at Wind Creek State Park’s No. 3 pavilion. The class starts at 9 a.m. and is over at noon with tasty samples. Cost is $15 per person. Register by May 13 at 256-825-1050.

May 19 Wine Tasting

John Mark Davis of Pinnacle Imports will present wines from the Pacific Northwest at this month’s Emporium Wine tasting at 128 Calhoun St., Alexander City. No charge for tasting.

May 20 Dixie Sailing Club 3rd Annual Drawdown

This year’s silent auction and drawdown event starts at 6 p.m. at The Ridge Clubhouse and will benefit the club’s 501(c)3 youth program, which teaches kids the life-long skill of sailing. Only 400 tickets will be sold at $50 per person, which covers admission, heavy hors d’oeuvres and one entry in the drawdown. Cash bar for beer, wine and soft drinks.

Drawdown winners do not have to be present to win; holders of last five tickets to be drawn may agree to split the winnings.

See complete rules at DixieSailingClub.com. To donate door prizes or silent auction items, contact Merry Hardy at 256794-8075 or Jim Simons at 334-546-0224 in Lake Martin area.

Elmore County and Montgomery residents contact Beth Biggs at 334-220-8650.

MAY 2016

LAKE 25

Grill Master Program turns up the heat

May 21 Blessing of the Fleet

StillWaters Yacht Club will hold the annual boat blessing at 10:30 a.m. in front of Harbor Point Marina. Pastor Bill Brown of Dadeville United Methodist Church will officiate. The yacht club suggests a $5 donation to the church. Blessing of the Fleet has taken place around the world for centuries to ask for safe passage on the water and good harvests for fishermen.

StillWaters Yacht Club is honored to continue the tradition on Lake Martin. For information, call A.B. Campbell at 256-8254387.

May 21 Paddle for a Purpose

The annual Paddle for a Purpose paddleboard race launches from Children’s Harbor at 9 a.m. with 1-mile, 3-mile and 6-mile race options to raise money for the camp that serves terminally ill children and their families. Entry fee for the 1-mile race is $35; entry for the 3-mile and 6-mile races is $45. Call Sharon Johnston at 334-799-0529 for details.

Outdoor cooking is one of the hallmarks of summer. The smell of meat being grilled or smoked is shorthand for good times. And at the center of every picnic, party and tailgate is the person whose dishes bring everyone together: the grill master. This year, the Tallapoosa County Extension Office is pleased to announce a program to help would-be outdoor chefs reach the top of their game just in time for cookout season.

The inaugural Grill Master class was created to give cooks of all experience levels some food for thought.

“Becoming really good at cooking takes practice and some training,” said the Tallapoosa County Extension Service Coordinator Shane Harris. “Most ‘experts’ learn from experience and other folks.”

The class will cover the basics of food safety, as well as the pros and cons of different cooking methods and types of fuel. There will be plenty of advice on how to best select and cook cuts of beef, pork and poultry, as well as samples of various cooked meats, so participants can get an idea of which cooking methods and flavors they like best.

Extension agents and local grill masters will lead the program, but there will be room for everyone to share their cooking tips. Harris said he wants the class to be less of a lecture and more of an informal group talk, with cooks helping others gain from their knowledge while they pick up new tricks and techniques of their own.

“We can all learn from each other,” said Harris.

“Our goal is for this class to have a fun Saturday morning talking about and eating good food.”

The Grill Master class will be held Saturday, May 14 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the Wind Creek State Park’s Pavilion No. 3 in Alexander City. The class costs $15 per person and pre-registration is required.

To sign up, call the Extension office at 256-8251050. Payment deadline is May 13.

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May 21 3rd Annual Breathe for Bunn

The Breathe for Bun Walk/Run is a 3-mile event dedicated to raising awareness of cystic fibrosis while also raising funds to benefit Ashley Bunn, as she prepares for a double lung transplant. The walk will start and end at the Courthouse Square in downtown Dadeville. Entry fee is $25 in advance; $30 day of event. No guarantee of T-shirt for run day registrations. T-shirt only is $15. For information, call 256-825-2304 or email sdeloach@lakemartinhospital.com.

May 21 Union VFD Spring Festival

The Union Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department (UVFR) will host its 34th annual Spring Festival at its main station located at 5171 Highway 50, Dadeville. The festival is the UVFR’s premiere fund raising event and will feature art and craft booths, flea market items, local musicians, children's activities, a military police dog demo, pet adoption booth, BBQ sandwich sale, cake sale, a cash raffle with thousands in prizes given away and more. Kowaliga Country 97.5 will host a live remote broadcast for the first two hours of the event. For more information, call Kurt Pfitzner at 334-233-9852 or email kppfitzner@gmail.com.

May 21 Motorcycle Ride for Veterans

Anyone with a motorcycle is welcome to join the second annual Armed Forces Day Ride for Veterans supporting Bill Nichols Veterans Home. Registration is $20 per bike plus $5 for additional riders. The ride starts at 10 a.m. from the New Site Town Hall. Bikers will ride down Highway 22 before returning to the town hall at 2 p.m. for a meal. All proceeds go to the Bill Nichols activities fund. This event is organized by the DAV Bill Nichols Chapter 13 and the Clay County Sheriff and sponsored

by Bike Riders for the American Soldier and local supporters.

For more information, contact Ray Latham at 256-990-2666 or Cory Powell at 256-329-9502.

MAY 2016

Paddle for a Purpose

For a great time and good exercise register for this years Paddle for a Purpose, which raises money for Children's Harbor

I

t’s time to clean off the paddleboard and get in shape for the annual Paddle for a Purpose stand-up paddleboard race on May 21. Last year’s 1-mile, 3-mile and 6-mile paddles raised nearly $10,000 for Children’s Harbor, a Lake Martin camp for terminally ill children and their families.

Race organizer Sharon Johnston said last year’s race attracted some 85 contestants.

She recommended the 1-mile race for beginning paddleboarders.

“Everyone is welcome to attend or participate. We want a good crowd,” Johnston said, “but we’ve had some people who were brand new. You should at least have been on a paddleboard before.”

Johnston is the co-owner of Lake Martin Dock Company, which sponsors Paddle for a Purpose.

Registration fee for the 1-mile race is $35, while registration for the 3-mile and 6-mile races are $45 each.

Participants who pre-register online will receive a T-shirt.

Pre-registration closes Thursday, May 19. Race day registration will run from 7:30 a.m. until 8 a.m., and races will begin at 9 a.m.

For those looking to improve paddling skills before race day, Johnston also teaches paddleboarding lessons, rents boards and hosts paddleboard tours of the lake with Paddle Lake Martin.

“We get groups together and paddle to different places on the lake each Saturday,” Johnston said. “I’m trying to grow the community, so we get more people interested on Lake Martin.”

Paddle for a Purpose is part of the regional SUP the South race series. SUP the South spans Alabama, Mississippi and Florida. SUP the South participants may sign up for one, two or all three of the races, which attract some of the most accomplished paddleboarders in the United States.

“It’s a fun race,” said Johnston. “These elite paddlers come from all over the country, and they are amazing to watch.”

This is the fifth year for Paddle for a Purpose and their third year working with SUP the South. Johnson is grateful to her co-workers at Lake Martin Dock Company for their help in making Paddle for a Purpose a success.

“Our whole staff is involved in creating this opportunity,” she explained. “Everyone has a part in it. It’s become a real bonding opportunity.”

For more information, call Johnston at 334-799-0529. To pre-register, visit www.active.com and search Paddle for a Purpose, or follow the link on the Paddle for a Purpose Facebook page at www.facebook.com/PaddleforaPurpose/.

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May 27-29 Art on the Lake

This annual art show on the grounds at Children’s Harbor is the official start of summer on Lake Martin and benefits the camp for terminally ill children and their families. Artists across the Southeast showcase their fine crafts from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. For booth information or to volunteer, contact Vicki Tuggle at 34-857-2021.

May 27-29 RXR Fest

Enjoy music on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads Memorial Day weekend with special festivities at SpringHouse on May 29. Bring chairs and coolers, family and friends for this weekend celebration of another summer on Lake Martin.

The music, lawn games, food and fun are free and start on Friday afternoon. Sweet Tea will start the music at 6 p.m.

Friday, followed by Brooke Daniel Band at 8:30 p.m. Saturday will feature The Bank Walkers at 6 p.m. and Atlas Road Crew at 8:15 p.m. Tickets are available at SpringHouse for the Sunday night festivities with music from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. with Jonathan Bloom. For details, call Emily Spink at 256794-1397.

May 27-29 4th Annual Pop Up Shops & Tent Event

Lakeside Mercantile will host their annual summer starter at 8246 County Road 34 with unique home decor, jewelry, apparel, gift and food vendors. A preview will be held May 27 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 28 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 29.

May 28 Community Garden Club Pancake Breakfast The Community Garden Club members will be up early

cooking pancakes for all to enjoy from 8 a.m until 10 a.m. on holiday weekend Saturdays. Come by and feed the family and help out the garden club.

June 4-5 Hatchet Creek Festival

Join the two-day float trip on beautiful Hatchet Creek in Coosa County, Alabama. The $50 registration fee covers T-shirt, shuttle service for camping gear, vehicle drivers for take-out back to launch site, campground facility with portable potties and hand washing stations, covered dining, snacks, Saturday dinner, Sunday breakfast, musical entertainment, optional games. Access provided to private pond for fishing (bring your own gear), two walking tours (optional) for bird and wildflower enthusiasts and central campfire. For information, call Beverly Bass at 256-207-3353.

June 4 Wildlife Habitat Tour

Join Lake Martin QDMA and Tallapoosa County Treasure Forest Association for a Wildlife Habitat Tour, including timber management and wildflowers. Tour will start at 8:30 a.m. from Jerry and Genelle Brown's Farm at 1030 Saxon Rd. Goodwater. Whiskers Catfish will provide lunch afterwards.

This event is free, but everyone is asked to sign up by calling the Tallapoosa County Extension Office at 256-825-1050 or Jerry Brown at 256-839-5154.

June 6 Summer Reading Kick-Off

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library will hold a kickoff party for its “On your mark, get set, read,” program at 10 a.m. at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City. There will be food, entertainment and information to help kids sign up for the six-week reading program.

The annual Hatchet Creek Festival is scheduled for the first weekend of June

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MAY 2016

Fridays on the Green STORY BY MIA OSBORN

Kick off warm weekends at Lake Martin right with Fridays on the Green at Russell Crossroads. The Town Green will host musical acts and good times from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. every Friday evening between May 13 and Sept. 23, with the exceptions of Jazz Fest weekend June 10 and Sun Festival Battle of the Bands night on July 29.

“Anyone can come out and have a great time with family and friends,” said Russell Lands Event Director Robert Gunn.

Gunn said Friday on the Green arose from the need for free and family-friendly events to get people out and socializing regularly throughout the summer. So far, the event – now

going into its fourth year – has been a huge success. In addition to music, there will be free activities for all ages, including ladder golf, hula-hoops, beanbag toss, bocce ball and sidewalk art.

This year’s musical lineup includes Russell Crossroads’ veterans like Jonathan Bloom, The Bank Walkers and Rexton Lee. On May 27, RXR Fest will replace Friday on the Green with artists Joe Bagley and The Park Band. Check the official schedule at www. russellcrossroads.com for changes, updates and links to artists’ music.

“It’s sure to be a series of fun events for the entire family,” said Gunn.

Fridays on the Green Performance Schedule May 13 Rexton Lee

June 24 Sid Phelps

August 12 Shadowood

May 20 Britt and Kurt

July 1 Rexton Lee

August 19 Sid Phelps

May 27 RXR Fest Friday bands take the place of Friday on the Green. Joe Bagley plays at 6:30 p.m., and The Park Band follows at 8:15 p.m.

July 8 Joe Bagley

August 26 TBA

July 15 Cowboy Bill

September 2 The Bank Walkers

July 22 Friday on the Green closed for Sun Festival

September 9 River Bottom Blues Band

June 3 Shadowood June 10 Friday on the Green closed for Jazz Fest June 17 Richard and Rusty

July 29 Jonathan Bloom August 5 The Bank Walkers

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September 16 Jonathan Bloom September 23 Britt and Kurt

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Jazz Fest Tab Benoit will headline the Strand Park stage at this year's Jazz Fest

The 26th annual Alexander City Jazz Fest is scheduled for June 10-11. The totally free two-day event will be held in Strand Park in downtown Alexander City on Friday, June 10, and move to the Lake Martin Amphitheater on Saturday, June 11.

This year’s Jazz Fest Friday night headliner is New Orleans blues artist Tab Benoit. Benoit has released 18 albums. In 2007, he was named both B.B. King Entertainer of the Year and Best Contemporary Male Performer at the Blues Music Awards in Memphis, Tennessee.

Jazz Fest favorite Jonathan Bloom and jazz guitarist brothers Noah and Josh Thompson, who together form Roman Street, will precede Benoit to the stage.

Jonathan Bloom will perform from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. with Roman Street taking the stage at 7:30 and Benoit playing at 9 p.m.

As of Lake magazine presstime, the Saturday lineup had yet to be announced.

Check the Russell Lands event calendar at www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/events/ for updates and further information.

Above: Bill Hardy dances with daughter Mollie while granddaughter Hannah looks on at Jazz Fest; Right: More than 10,000 people attend the annual concert series.

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MAY 2016

June 8, 15, 22 & 29 Children’s Summer Reading Program

at each marina to celebrate customer appreciation on National Marina Day.

The 2016 Children’s Summer Reading program, BuildA-Better-Readers is set for these four Wednesdays in June.

To participate or volunteer, contact Stephens Elementary School at 256-234-8631 or the Lake Martin Area United Way at 256-329-3600.

June 10-11 26th Annual Jazz Fest

June 16 United Way Day of Action

Lake Martin Area United Way will sponsor the 2016 Day of Action at three local schools on Thursday, June 16. Sign up to help spruce up educational facilities in our area. For information, call 256-329-3600.

July 2

Community Garden Club Pancake Breakfast The best music festival of the summer kicks off on The Community Garden Club members will be up early Friday night at Strand Park in Alexander City with three cooking pancakes for all to enjoy from 8 a.m until 10 a.m. on great bands, and the concert series moves to the Lake holiday weekend Saturdays. Come Martin Amphitheater on Four kings won last year's Lions by and feed the family and help Saturday with three more Club Poker Run for charity out the garden club. bands. This annual concert series is free and tons of fun.

Mark your calendars now and July 2-3 look for details coming soon.

Arti Gras

Russell Crossroads once again will host this juried art show on the Town Green. Browse the tents and find that perfect piece for your lake home. There will be handmade pottery, photography, furniture, watercolors, oil paintings, reclaimed wood decor, jewelry, soaps, jams, jellies and more. For information, call 256-212-1416.

June 11 17th Annual Sheriff’s Girls Ranch Poker Run

This fast and fun card game in which players vie for the $5,000 grand prize raises funds for the local Sheriff’s Girls Ranch. Register a vessel for $450 by calling 334-887-9999.

Your entry fee is tax deductible.

Players will pick up cards at six Lake Martin locations and then gather at The Landing at Parker Creek for the after party. This event is worth the ticket price, and the cause is priceless!

July 4 Russell Marine Fourth of July Boat Parade

June 11 Miss Lake Martin Pageant

The 2016 Miss Lake Martin will be crowned at the Dadeville High School Auditorium. There will be 10 contestants accepted in each of nine age groups from infant to age 21. Register by May 15 at misslakemartinpageant@ gmail.com.

June 11 MainStreet Farmer’s Market

Alexander City kicks off its annual MainStreet Farmer’s Market from 7 a.m. until 11 a.m. at Broad Street Plaza.

Browse farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey and other natural products.

June 11 National Marina Day

Russell Marine marinas will offer hot dogs with trimmings

Decorate your boat and join the patriotic crowd at Kowaliga Marina as boats of all sizes, shapes and decorations parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor, circling past the lighthouse and making the return trip. Spectators line the shoreline along the route to applaud their favorite boats and constestants. Registered boats will vie for top honors for Largest Flag, Tallest Flag, Most Patriotic and Most Creative. Call 334-8572111 to register or for information.

July 4 Fourth of July Blast

Find a spot on the grassy hillside at Lake Martin Amphitheater for the 16th annual Fourth of July Blast, as Russell Lands hosts the Southeast’s largest fireworks show over Lake Martin. Gates open at 5 p.m. The Bank Walkers and Sweet Tea will entertain, and the fireworks start at 9 p.m. Call 256-397-1019 for information.

July 4 Alabama Avenue at Chuck’s

Alabama Avenue is so excited to kick off 4th of July weekMAY 2016 LAKE 31

Lil’Calypso

end at Chuck’s Marina on beautiful Lake Martin! Celebrate the grand opening of the new Chuckwalla pizza kitchen. Spend your Friday night singing and dancing under the stars.

July 16 Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run

The 13th annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run will begin at The Ridge Marina and end at Kowaliga Restaurant to raise funds for local charities. Participants will travel from the Ridge Marina to River North, Harbor Point, Real Island and Kowaliga Marina to collect the best hand. Prizes will be awarded at the after party at Kowaliga Restaurant.

The festival features original artwork

Aug. 6 Russell Marine’s Riverfront Wake Battle

The best wakeboard and wakeskate riders in the Southeast will battle it out for $7,000 in prizes at the Riverfront in Montgomery. For information, visit www.RussellMarine.net, find Russell Marine on Facebook and Instagram or call 256794-1397.

The 14th annual Lil’ Calypso art festival will be held at Chuck’s Marina on Saturday, June 11. More than 50 vendors set up booths along the shoreline to show off their artwork, so patrons can enjoy the lake breeze while browsing paintings, woodwork, jewelry, furniture, pottery, folk art and more.

The festival opens at 10 a.m. Live music will play from the deck tiki bar from 1 p.m. until the festival closes at 4 p.m. Chuckwalla’s Pizzeria will be open and serving their famous pizza and subs.

Chuck’s Marina co-owner and organizer Jane GarrettHarris is still amazed by how far Lil’ Calypso has come.

“When we started, it was just on the point by the marina. There were probably 10 vendors, if that,” said Garrett-Harris. “Last year was our biggest ever; we had about 50 vendors.”

Lil’ Calypso has no set admittance fee. Instead, guests make a donation of their choice to the Union Volunteer Fire Department. The Union VFD will be on site all day to help Lil’ Calypso attendees in any way they can, from grilling hot dogs to transporting guests in a golf cart shuttle. Garrett-Harris said Lil’ Calypso is the Union VFD’s 3rd largest annual fundraiser. The VFD uses the Lil’ Calypso donations to buy lifesaving equipment and other essentials.

“Whatever they raise we usually match,” said GarrettHarris. “It’s great to have them on the property because of their paramedic training.”

Members of the Union VFD also assist artists in setting up tents and booths and transporting heavy pieces of artwork back to patrons’ cars. Lil’ Calypso is popular with artists because it draws a diverse crowd of lake visitors.

“About a third of our artists are returning,” said Garrett-Harris. “People are trying to get in because it exposes artists to a big audience.”

The festival is still taking artist applications. All Lil’ Calypso artists sell only handmade items. Booth fee is $60. For more information, contact Jane Garrett-Harris at 334-233-0724.

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Aug. 20 Muster on the Tallapoosa

Honoring the centennial of the National Park Service, the annual Muster on the Tallapoosa will feature a unique telling of the history of Horseshoe Bend National Military Park and its communities. There will be Tennessee Militia reenactments, live canon and rifle fire and demonstrations of what life was like in the lives of the Creek Indians and local residents from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call 56-234-7111 for information.

Sept. 3 Community Garden Club Pancake Breakfast

The Community Garden Club members will be up early cooking pancakes for all to enjoy from 8 a.m until 10 a.m. on holiday weekend Saturdays. Come by and feed the family and help out the garden club.

Sept. 4 Labor Day Weekend Concert at The AMP

The summer concert series at The AMP comes to a dramatic close as concert goers of all ages gather for the final event of the year. The AMP has hosted quality entertainers like Blues Traveler, Sister Hazel, Trotline, Shooter Jennings, Corey Smith and others for the unofficial end to the summer. This year will be no exception. Keep an eye on The AMP on Lake Martin on Facebook, www.theamponlakemartin.com or call 256-3971019 for details to come on this year’s concert event.

Season-Long Events Strand Sessions

Free live music and fun await in Alexander City’s Strand Park each Thursday from May 5 through August 4 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The musical guest on May 5 will be Dallas Dorsey. Bring your own beer or wine, chairs and blankets and enjoy this hometown concert series sponsored by the Lake Martin Young Professionals.

MAY 2016

Library Storytime in Dadeville

Antique Car Cruise-in

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

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

Library Storytime in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Movie Days at Mamie’s Place

Watch a kid-friendly movie at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library on the first Tuesday of each month. The show starts at 10 a.m.

Electronics Recycling

The City of Alexander City Public Works Department will host an electronics recycling event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month in conjunction with the Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership. Electronics contain a number of harmful chemicals. The events give citizens a chance to get rid of old and outdated electronics without risking the water supply by sending them to a landfill. Items accepted include desktop or laptop computers, computer mouse, keyboards, modems or routers, CDs and DVDs, power supplies, PC mix systems, home or cell phones, printers or copiers, mainframe servers, TVs, audio/video adapters, laptop chargers, cable boxes and nickel cadmium or lithium ion batteries. There is a $10 fee per television. For more information, call Sabrina Wood at 334-429-8832 or Amanda Thomas at 256-409-2020.

Charity Bingo

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 2nd Thursday of every month at the Alexander City Church of Christ with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. Interested persons may contact the Club President Tim Mayfield at 256-329-1172 or Secretary John Philips at 256-212-4063.

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. Your children will love every minute. Check the calendar at Calendar.

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

Wine Tastings

Santuck Flea Market

The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month. The Santuck Flea Market is located at 7300 Central Plank Road, Highway 9 in Wetumpka.

Come by Catherine’s Market at Russell Crossroads for wine tastings on Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. from May 20 through September 2. Sample a variety of wines for $5, and then apply that $5 to your purchase your favorite.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Fridays On The Green

Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats. Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children's Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

Real Island Supper

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

Meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Jr. Sportplex campus. Participants come and go between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5, followed by show-and-tell. Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.

Yoga On The Green

Wind your busy week down May 13 through Sept. 23 on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads with live music, lawn games and time with the family and friends. Bring your coolers, blankets and chairs, kids and pets and enjoy the music free of charge from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. every Friday except June 10 (Jazz Fest) and July 29 (Sun Festival’s Battle of the Bands).

With The Stables as a back-drop, the Town Green is the perfect place to discover your inner being through yoga at 7 a.m. every Saturday from May 28 to October 1. Great for beginners and the experienced; just bring your mat and water bottle.

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. 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.

Wine Tastings

Emporium Wine hosts a tasting the third Thursday of each month from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 128 Calhoun St., Alexander City. No charge. Visit Emporium Wine on Facebook for details.

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LAKE 33

Fourth of July Blast Russell Lands hosts a July 4 weekend that you won’t want to miss

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MAY 2016

L

ake Martin is the place to be for the Fourth of July weekend, and this year is set to be the best celebration yet, from Friday on the Green with Rexton Lee to the last pop of the fireworks Monday night.

The weekend kicks off at the Russell Crossroads Town Green with lawn games, good friends and good music from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Saturday morning starts a pancake breakfast benefitting the Crossroads Community Garden Club. The breakfast runs from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the Russell Crossroads Arts Cabin.

Entrance is $5. Get plenty of pancakes, too, because a stroll is next on the schedule.

The Town Green will host the annual Arti Gras. More than 30 artists will set up on the lawn with displays of jewelry, paintings, birdhouses, food and more. Arti Gras is a juried event, which means the team at Russell Crossroads conducts pre-show interviews and approves vendor samples to ensure that only original arts and crafts are shown under the tent.

“This is legitimate, handmade stuff,” said Russell Lands Vice President Roger Holliday. “No T-shirts from Timbuktu.”

Arti Gras will cover two days: Saturday, July 2, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday, July 3, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

July 4 may be on a Monday this year, but that won’t stop one of Lake Martin’s most memorable events: the Kowaliga Boat Parade. Starting at 10 a.m. at Kowaliga Marina, a fleet of patriotic boats will pass under Kowaliga Bridge to reach Children’s Harbor, then turn around and head back to the marina.

The parade is best watched from a boat. Spectators who pull up a spot of water near enough to the parade may be rewarded with a handful of thrown candy. If not, they are still in a great position to watch some of the most creative and funny boat decorating schemes on the lake.

Parade boats pull out all the stops: Last year’s parade caught Lady Liberty dancing with Uncle Sam on a top deck; a crew of patriotic pirates; and a tribute to the winning U.S. Women’s Soccer Team. One boat was completely covered with the lyrics of America the Beautiful, and the prettiest boat might have been the wooden skiff piloted by two young ladies.

There is a purpose behind all the pageantry: Boats are given titles for the biggest flag, tallest flag, most patriotic and more.

For those who want to get even more involved, anyone is welcome to dust off their best red-white-and-blue outfit and join the parade. Entry is free, but those who wish to participate must pre-register by July 3. Registration can be completed at any Russell Lands marina. For more information, call Kowaliga Marina at 334-857-2111.

After the parade ends and the sun edges toward the horizon, everyone’s favorite part of the festivities begins. The annual July 4 Blast concert and fireworks show will take place at the Lake Martin Amphitheater. The fun starts at 6:30 p.m. when local favorites The Bank Walkers take the stage. They will be followed by the Sweet Tea Trio at 8 p.m., and a spectacular fireworks show at 9 p.m.

Admission is $15. Visitors are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, coolers and food. No pets allowed.

With events spanning more than four days, there’s sure to be something for all ages and tastes at the lake this Fourth of July.

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LAKE 35

Sun Festival Celebration

Show Your Colors Building sundaes

Jana Kramer

A fireworks finale

T

he only thing better than summer weekends at Lake Martin could be a whole week of fun in the sun with the backdrop of the lake. Around these parts, that’s called Sun Festival, and it happens at the end of July.

This weeklong event is actually 60 events, a citywide celebration of summer in Alexander City. Since the first Sun Festival four years ago, more and more activities are added each year, and more than 200 local volunteers pitch in to make it successful, from the first event at 8 a.m. on Saturday to the final Sportplex stadium concert and fireworks show eight days later.

This year, Sun Festival starts July 23 with the Monster Mural creation at 8 a.m. and the Miss Sun Festival Pageant at 9 a.m. But it really takes off that evening with the 5K Glowin-the-Dark Fun Run and after-party.

Sunday afternoon will find participants at the lake for Family Day. From fishing to canoeing, sailing, playing beach volleyball and eating hot dogs, the afternoon has something for everyone.

And the Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt begins at 6:05 a.m.

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Monday, July 25. Every day through Friday, a new clue will be announced, and early risers will search diligently for the medallion – and the cash prize to the team that finds it. At the end of the week, the names of all the winners go in a hat, and the one name drawn receives the grand prize of $1,000.

The days are filled with KidsFest activities, dog parades, hikes, pie baking and eating contests, bingo, car shows and cook-offs, and at night, there are themed dances in the park with a band battle on Friday that wins one lucky group the opening spot for headliner Jana Kramer on Saturday.

The country music singer first hit the big screen as an actress with supporting roles in several movies and appearances in a number of television series, including One Tree Hill, CSI and Grey’s Anatomy. Her debut single, Why Ya Wanna, hit number 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.

It’s a weeklong celebration of summer at the lake. Don’t miss it!

MAY 2016

4th Annual Sun Festival Schedule of Events Saturday, July 23: 8:00am 9:00am 8:00pm

Monster Mural Miss Sun Festival Pageant Glow in the Dark 5K

Sunday, July 24:

8:00am Monster Mural 1:00pm Family Day at the Lake

Hook 'Em at Sun Festival

Oh the Places You'll Canoe

Raising the Sail Beach Volleyball Tournament

Canoe Race Me? Paddleboard Race Mini Tri-athalon Block Party

Doggin' It at the Lake

Monday, July 25:

6:05am Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt 8:00am Monster Mural 9:00am KidsFest Tumble Fun 9:00am Hanging Out at the Home 5:30pm Dawg-Gawn Good Parade 7:00pm Boot Scootin' Boogie in the Park

Friday, July 29:

6:05am Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt 8:00am Monster Mural 9:00am KidsFest Wet 'n Wild 6:00pm Band Battle 6:00pm Darlin' Let's Eat Out

Saturday, July 30:

7:00am MainStreet Farmers Market 8:00am Monster Mural 8:00am Get Up, Get Going 8:00am Motorcycle Ride & Show 8:00am Car Show 10:00am On the Pontoon 11:00am PATH Healthy Recipe Challenge Noon Summer Tailgate & BBQ Cook-off 1:00pm Cornhole Tournament 2:00pm On the Pontoon 7:00pm Jana Kramer Concert & Fireworks Show Watch for full detailed schedule of events the first week of July!

How many hot dogs?!

Tuesday, July 26: 6:05am 8:00am 10:00am 2:30pm 3:00pm 5:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm

Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt Monster Mural KidsFest Taking Care of Me Bingo Show Me the Movie Show Your Colors Motown Madness in the Park Hittin' the Links - Glow Golf

Wednesday, July 27: 6:05am 8:00am 9:00am 2:00pm 7:00pm

Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt Monster Mural KidsFest Tribal Celebration KidsFest Magic Show Lip Sync Battle in the Park

Motown Madness

Thursday, July 28:

6:05am Pie in the Sky Treasure Hunt 8:00am Monster Mural 9:00am Fun in the Sun 10:30am Celebrate America's Heroes 1:00pm KidsFest Get Your Art On 2:30pm KidsFest Build Your Own Sundae 5:30pm PATH FINDERS Forum 6:00pm Sunset Hike 7:00pm Celebrate the Son: Radney Funeral Home Presents Gold City Quartette 8:00pm Praise the Park: Matt Papa MAY 2016

LAKE 37

Worship on the Water Church of the Living Waters at StillWaters 782 Lakeview Ridge, Dadeville All Services: Sunday 9 a.m.

June 5 June 12 June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 Aug. 7 Aug. 14 Aug. 21 Aug. 28 Sept. 4

Rev. Faron Golden - Reeltown Rev. Al Perkins - Montgomery Rev. Jim Pate - Dadeville Rev. Sam Henderson - Commerce, Georgia Donna Allen - LaFayette (Message in Music & Song) Rev. James Cullins - Alexander City Rev. Rusty Hutson - Auburn Rev. Mark Gainey - Dadeville Rev. K.G. Jones - Tuskegee Rev. Ed Hornig - Auburn Rev. Tommy Greer - Carrollton, Georgia Dr. Roy Hornsby - Trussville Dr. Joel Richardson - Newnan, Georgia Rev. Carmen Falcione - Montgomery (Labor Day Closing)

Communion served on May 29, July 17, and September 4 Dress is casual. GPS Coordinates N 32º 44.554’ W 085º 48.867’ www.colw-sw.com

Church in the Pines

State Route 63 at Children's Harbor Services begin at 9 a.m.

May 8 May 15 May 22 May 29 June 5 June 12 June 19 June 26 July 3 July 10 July 17 July 24 July 31 Aug. 7 Aug. 14 Aug. 21 Aug. 28 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 18 Sept. 25

Mother’s Day – Todd Henderson, First United Methodist, Alexander City Hamp Greene, Church of the Highlands, Birmingham John Mann, United Methodist, Dadeville George Mathison, United Methodist, Auburn John Coleman, Church of the Ascension, Montgomery Gates Shaw, Christ Episcopal, Birmingham Father’s Day – Karl Stegall, First United Methodist, Montgomery Chuck Roberts, Peachtree Presbyterian John Ed Mathison, Montgomery Larry Little Sherry Harris, United Methodist Church John Mann, United Methodist, Dadeville Brian Erickson Charles Gattis, United Methodist Belon Friday, United Methodist, Bear Creek Robert Smith Mark Jackson, Mulder Memorial United Methodist, Wetumpka Mickey Morgan, United Methodist, Birmingham John Coleman, Church of the Ascension, Montgomery John Mann, United Methodist, Dadeville Mike Holy, Bluff Park United Methodist, Birmingham

Episcopal services are at noon on June 12 and 26, July 10 and 24, and August 14 and 28. For more information, visit www.stjamesalexcity.com Lake services are casual. Come by car or boat to worship and fellowship on Lake Martin's beautiful shores.

Photo by Audra Spears 38 LAKE

MAY 2016

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LAKE 39

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42 LAKE

MAY 2016

MAY 2016

LAKE 43

“W

this wasp. hat the heck is that?”

“I received a sample through the mail from a homeThat’s what I said – out loud owner who wanted to know what these were on her oak – even though I was alone in the woods when I saw what looked like a large, red-freckled trees and whether they are harmful or not,” Ames said.

So she took photos of the galls and put them back in cotton ball perched on the end of a white oak twig. the sample bag in case she needed them for teaching A little research, and I found the answer. purposes.

It was a gall.

“Several days later, I heard this kind of ticking noise, Specifically, a wool sower gall, which is sometimes and when I looked around the office I found it … a called an oak seed gall. bunch of little wasps had emerged and were in the bag.

The entomology department at the University of That’s how I knew they came from this particular gall, Kentucky described it as a “toasted marshmallow,” because I heard them in my office.” which makes some sense because it is a white, marshAmes took the photo of the wasp pictured in this mallow-sized ball stuck on the end of a branch. But I story before she set the don’t know anybody wasps free. who would want to The Wool Sower Gall Wasp is highly “They’re pretty small squish it between particular and lays its eggs on a compared to the size of chocolate and graham white oak twig on alternating years the gall,” she said. crackers. (photo by Lisa M. Ames) The gall helps the Because this “marshbugs in several ways, mallow” is really a including providing Wool Sower Gall Wasp nutrients to the young nursery. grub dining on the inner That’s right, it’s a tissue of the gall and wasp nursery. providing a safe, protecInside is a whole tive environment for the brood of Wool Sower developing insect in its Gall Wasps. most vulnerable larva The scientific name stage. for this small blackAbout 70 percent bodied wasp with a of known gall wasps distinguishing humped form galls exclusively back is Callirhytis on different types of seminator. oak trees. The other 30 It alone has the percent use different power to create wool species of bushes and sower galls on white trees for gall producoak trees. And it only tion, including maples, does so in the spring. rose bushes, a number Galls are weird, of different herbs and abnormal outgrowths eucalyptus trees. on any part of a plant, Wool sower gall from the leaves and wasps are thought to flowers to branches, have a complex lifecycle that involves creating different twigs, buds and roots. types of galls in alternating generations. The wasp that There are many types and forms, from brown paperlike balls, to fuzzy flower-like formations and even spin- emerges from a wool sower gall likely will lay eggs that create another type of gall. Its grandchild, in turn, will dle galls that look like thick, colored hairs growing on lay its eggs on a white oak twig and create a new wool a leaf. They go by all kinds of strange names, like roly sower gall. poly galls, oak apple galls, vein pocket galls, jumping The wool sower gall is actually a group of small, hairoak galls, horned oak galls and many, many others. like galls all joined at the center. By growing outward Galls are thought to be caused by enzymes given off from a single location, they form the white, wooly ball by immature insects or mites. we see. Inside the gall are small “seeds.” A Wool Sower The insect’s powerful enzymes interact with plant wasp grub could develop inside each of the seeds. hormones and can dramatically alter the plant’s tissue These galls don’t harm the white oak trees. and form a gall for the insect’s benefit.

And the tiny wool sower wasp doesn’t hurt people.

“This is not something that the insect does – it’s So while all this sounds bizarre and dangerous, it’s something that the insect makes the plant do,” said Lisa actually just an interesting and benign example of how a M. Ames, director of the homeowner insect and weeds tiny wasp has learned to force the mighty white oak tree diagnostics lab at University of Georgia.

Ames has an interesting story about how she first met to build a home for its kids … and provide free meals.

44 LAKE

MAY 2016

Wool Sower Gall Made by trees for tiny wasps

NATURE OF THE LAKE

BY KENNETH BOONE

The White Oak tree produces the Wool Sower Gall to host wasp larvae

MAY 2016

LAKE 45

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MAY 2016

MAY 2016

LAKE 47

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MAY 2016

LAKE 49

Glass wings on the east and west sides of the house offer both sunrise and sunset lake views

50 LAKE

MAY 2016

Sunrise to Sunset Now on the market, a North Ridge landmark offers the ultimate quality of life on Lake Martin STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

MAY 2016

LAKE 51

A spectacular guestroom occupies the sunrise wing

G

etting away to the The second owners lake has never been of this incredible home more spectacular renovated the original Bill or better planned than the Farshee design to complete accommodations of the the symmetry of glass-frontsunrise to sunset estate ed wings on the sides of the at the end of Ridgeview house, affording exceptional Point. The $5.75 million, views while preserving pri12,000 square foot home vacy. The remodel added makes the most of big the glass office wing on water views and luxurious the home’s west side with amenities while holding views of the double watersquarely to the core values fall, infinity pool and white of Lake Martin living – sandy beach. The home is family, friends and good sited on the open water of times at the lake. The floor Lake Martin off The North plan lends itself as easily Ridge point, and the view to the intimacy of a cottage stretches nearly 2 miles to for two as it does to enterWicker Point.

A downstairs powder room features a collection of painted fish taining several hundred in Originally, the Shaker three stories with porches, shingle and stone home patios and exquisitely landscaped grounds. occupied one lot, half of the northernmost point on The In addition to six bedrooms and seven and a half bath- Ridge peninsula, but when they purchased the home, the rooms in the main house – along with a warm and invit- current owners also procured the adjacent empty lot for ing home theater, a game room library and guestrooms a rock garden that Eric Brown of Hilltop Landscaping to rival the master – the property includes a spacious crafted around the full northern point. guest apartment with front and back lake views and From the top of the driveway to the two piers on grounds designed for relaxation.

1,000 feet of waterfront, the owners clearly focused 52 LAKE

MAY 2016

Artfully arranged stumps, rocks and plants leave the impression that the home was built around this feature

MAY 2016

LAKE 53

their renovation on enhancing the quality of lake living. The cascading waterfall and exquisite landscaping, the beautifully appointed living areas, guestrooms and entertainment spaces – all showcases on their own – singularly serve an essential character that is unique to Lake Martin living.

To make that happen from the first glance to the last, Brown gave his imagination full reign.

Two pumps operate the falls that descend from just below street level to the private lakeside beach. Drawing water from the lake, the falls spill over boulders and even driftwood stumps so artfully arranged that they leave the impression the garden was designed around these natural features, a specialty skill at Hilltop.

Brown incorporated stone benches into the infinity pool design; cool lake water spills over the edge of a rock retaining wall and into a catch basin behind the beach.

Throughout the garden above, Brown arranged conversation corners with Adirondack seating, stone benches and even two trees perfectly spaced for a hammock.

Such deliberate and thoughtful planning is typical of every facet of this exclusive Lake Martin estate, with warmth and comfort as the priorities that have dictated style decisions.

The home makes that statement with the first step into the entry.

A great room, accented with 18-inch timber posts and exposed truss work in a 24-foot vaulted ceiling, easily accommodates a small dinner party or a cozy evening

Timbers and trusses add warmth to the home's interior

54 LAKE

MAY 2016

Art pieces accent the home's simple beauty

The well-appointed kitchen focuses on accommodating family and guests

for two amongst the leather furLakeside windows nishings and stacked stone gas-log open the home to fireplace. For quiet conversation, lake views on all the living room includes an alcove three floors seating arrangement opposite a formal dining room that opens to the living room.

And when it’s just family, a breakfast table off the kitchen can handle the overflow from stools at the granite counter and 5-foot by 8-foot island.

A user-friendly master electronics panel in the kitchen controls lights, televisions, heating and cooling systems with a simple touch. The multi-user system will even accommodate his and hers settings on the televisions.

Electronics also operate sliding glass doors in the great room and the master bedroom to extend entertainment spaces onto the broad lakeside veranda. So with one touch, the space converts from the intimacy of a quiet evening at home to a garden party for several hundred.

And the kitchen makes the transition just as easily.

Gourmet Wolf appliances include two subzero refrigerators, duel fuel ovens and six-burner gas stoves with

filling faucet, warming tray, an espresso machine and two dishwashers, along with double copper sinks, situated in front of a bank of windows on the big water view.

Off the kitchen are two bedrooms, a half bath and one of the home’s three laundry rooms.

One of these guestrooms occupies the home’s poolside sunrise wing with a three-sided oval glass wall so spectacular that the home’s price tag seems a bargain.

The simple guestroom furnishings include a high queen bed, nightstands, two upholstered chairs with a narrow table and slim floor lamp, so as not to distract from or block the exceptional view: Open water on the north side with Midway Island – an undeveloped Russell Lands property – straight ahead and around the point to southeastern lake views. Transoms make the most of the view, but guests can customize the flow of natural light with blinds that disappear into the window casings.

Behind the bedroom lies a spacious guest bath ­­­in creamy tones of ceramic tile and subtle Mediterranean style with a private water closet, double sinks and jetted

MAY 2016

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Transoms flood the expansive master suite with natural light

56 LAKE

MAY 2016

This exceptional home is a landmark on the northernmost point of The Ridge

The glass wings lend elegant style to the lakeside home

bathing.

And this is merely the guest suite.

In the opposite glass wing on the west side, the owners fashioned an impeccable master with sitting areas and a television that rises from a custom cabinet. Electronic glass doors lead to the lakeside veranda, where a spiral stair will take them for a morning stroll along the seawall boardwalk that lines the water frontage.

The master bath includes a mosaic waterfall, jetted tub and steam shower and separate his and hers vanities on opposite sides of the room, as well as separate walk-in closets.

On this sunset side of the house, an office occupies the glass oval, but it would be difficult to work in such a well-appointed space. The south view takes in the garden waterfall, infinity pool and beach. Across a quarter mile of lake to the west lies Windermere, another Russell Lands neighborhood that blends construction into the natural environment.

Upstairs, a single spacious bedroom, bath and library game room allow family space for grown children with their own children.

The library features built-in shelving with curved corner units for the unique display of collector’s items. Gaming options include billiards, electronic shuffleboard and video game console with a Midway Island view. Shutter doors offer gamers a view into the downstairs great room when the occasion is wideopen family or entertainment time.

And this home includes so much more.

Taking the elevator or the stairs to the daylight ground floor leads to football-viewing perfection, with a long granite counter at a full kitchen where Wolf appliances serve guests, a home MAY 2016

LAKE 57

58 LAKE

MAY 2016

Opposite (clockwise from top left): The entry to the home is at the end of cul-de-sac on The Ridge peninsula; the great room view from the second floor library game room; the west office enjoys spectacular lake views; the waterfall invites relaxation and quiet conversation; the game room offers views of Midway Island.

This page (clockwise from above): Billiards, shuffleboard, video games and checkers are among the leisure activities available amid a collector's showcase in the library game room; in addition to the infinity pool in the west side garden, the home includes a pool on the sunrise patio; the lakeside kitchen breakfast nook seats 10; outdoor dining options are available on the entry level flagstone veranda and the ground floor patio.

MAY 2016

LAKE 59

A flagstone boardwalk tops the seawall along the home's 1,000 feet of water frontage

theater and bar, another living area with fireplace and three bedrooms that each include a bath and outside access. This level also includes an aesthetic pantry that could easily convert to a wine cellar, a laundry room and a safe room – a reassuring feature for those that remember the April 2011 tornado that cut across Lake Martin.

The collector’s cases behind the counters are just right for a row of autographed helmets from the favored college team, a display of famous jerseys or photos with the coach.

And the electronic glass doors slide open to the grilling patio and an outdoor bar bench that overlooks the lake.

Two of the downstairs bedrooms access screened porches beneath the glass wings. On the west side of the house, the porch offers the solitude of the garden while the eastern porch leads to the swimming pool and deck area below the glass guest suite.

The third downstairs bedroom includes glass doors to the flagstone patio beside the lake.

The amenities go on and on, as the estate also includes an apartment above the three-car garage, where natural light floods the vaulted living space with both sunrise and sunset lake views. The apartment’s galley kitchen is more than adequate for morning coffee and a midnight snack – even the preparation of an intimate dinner. Casual but certainly comfortable furnishings make this the perfect accommodation for a young couple or college kids and friends visiting for a long weekend break.

This beautiful sunrise to sunset estate offers lakeside luxury that never loses sight of its all-too-important singular purpose: To gather friends and family for celebrations, relaxation and good times uniquely found nowhere else.

The owners of this remarkable estate recently listed the furnished home for sale with Lake Martin Realty.

Inquiries for purchase are invited by Becky Haynie at 334-312-0928.

60 LAKE

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LAKE 61

Dixie Sailing Club Settled in at their New Hope location, Lake Martin club adds a nonprofit youth program to its objectives STORY BY LACEY HOWELL PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE, JACOB MEACHAM & LACEY HOWELL

DSC has operated on Lake Martin for more than 50 years

62 LAKE

MAY 2016

YP members last month joined DSC families for a day of sailing at the lake

D

ixie Sailing Club (DSC) last month hosted Lake Martin Young Professionals (YP) at the New Hope location the sailors moved to four years ago. Located at the end of New Hope Church Road on a gorgeous point, the club has settled in and made a number of improvements. Membership dues and fundraising efforts have resulted in the construction of docks and a pavilion, as well as restroom facilities outfitted with solar lights.

A sailor’s paradise indeed, the site plan calls for a clubhouse as well.

YP members were invited to explore the club, and DSC members offered their own sailboats for a private sail on quite possibly the most beautiful day of spring.

After the sail, the two groups shared bratwursts and stories beneath the pavilion.

Alexander City Chamber Vice President of Business Development and President of Lake Martin Young Professionals, Jacob Meacham, was impressed.

“First of all, the people at Dixie Sailing Club couldn’t be any nicer or more welcoming. Add to that the beautiful setting and facilities they have on Lake Martin, and you’ve really got something special,” Meacham said. “It’s an awesome way to experience the lake, and having a young son, I’m particularly excited about their launching of the youth sailing program.”

Jim Simons, DSC youth program president and a Lake Martin retiree, knows from personal experience the value of exposing kids to sailing.

“I have been sailing since grade school. I wanted a sailboat, but my father was into powerboats. So I decided to build my own boat. The way I built it didn’t work out so very well! My first experience was aborted,” Simons said, but he didn’t give up.

Growing up on the Potomac in Alexandria, Virginia,

the teenaged Simons had friends with boats, so they often sailed out of the sailing marina on the river.

“One day, we were sailing on the Potomac, and this big yacht and two little boats are coming down the river. The guy I was sailing with thought he had the right of way, but I quickly pointed out I didn’t think so, as it was the presidential yacht, Sequoia!”

Throughout his life, Simons said, he’s appreciated the nature of sailing clubs and what they mean to the communities where he has lived and worked.

“Every time I went to a different job, I tried to find a place I could sail. On the Mississippi, the Chesapeake, Lake Erie and Lake Huron … You go to any of these areas, and you meet sailors. They are uniformly great people, and you always have a friend. If you are a member of a yacht club, you can walk into any yacht club in the world, and they will give you complimentary drink or at least complimentary club privileges.

I have done that all over the states and overseas. You always have friends at a yacht club,” Simons said.

DSC currently has about 45 regular members, plus their spouses and children, along with associate members (who belong to the club but don’t have a boat), and the 40 Auburn University collegiate members who call the New Hope base home. All together, that makes for about 160 active sailors. Several regular members are now from the Auburn area, and Simons sees the potential for major membership growth all across Central Alabama.

“In five years, we would like to double membership and be a regional center for sailing in this part of Alabama. We would like to be able to host regattas for Optis and Lasers. We already host Catalina 22 regattas and two open regattas, which means they are open to anyone and any sailboat. Every three years or so, we

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LAKE 63

Jacob and Lindsay Meacham took to the sailboat with Kevin Speaks and Capt. Ron Jenkins

Trolling out to find the wind

John Howell (red shirt) keeps an eye on the sails and a hand on the tiller

64 LAKE

host the Catalina 22 regional championships.”

Two years ago, the club hosted their first Drawdown fundraiser, and it was such a success that the event has become an annual celebration at Lake Martin.

The third annual DSC Drawdown will be held Saturday, May 20, at The Ridge Clubhouse with live music by Pat Patterson, a silent auction, door prizes and a chance for ticketholders to win all or part of the $5,000 prize.

Drawdown tickets are $50 per person and include heavy hors d’oeuvres beneath a full moon. Only 400 tickets will be sold, and participants do not have to be present to win the big money. Proceeds will benefit the new DSC Youth Program, a 501(c)3 tax-exempt charity. By way of being a 501(c)3, the youth do not have to be members to participate in the sailing programs.

The DSC Youth Program will conduct programs this summer to teach sailing skills to kids.

Simons hopes the 2016 Drawdown will raise enough money for the purchase of six Optimists (Optis) dinghystyle boats for children. He also has plans to bring in U.S. Sailing certified instructors for summer 2017.

Sponsorships for this year’s Drawdown event are available through May 16.

Merry Hardy, Vice President of the Youth Sailing program and a DSC board member said the goal is to get the youth sailing.

“Learning to sail as a youth is so valuable throughout your life,” said Hardy, who started sailing when she was 5 years old.

“Promoting youth programs builds the club, and you are never too old to learn to sail,” she said.

A healthy sailing club also builds a reputation for quality of life and the tourist trade at Lake Martin, she said.

“When you have yet another sport to add to Lake Martin’s resume, it benefits everyone, from restaurants to real estate. We have everything here on Lake Martin, and it is so important to participate,” Hardy said.

DSC members are working (or is it playing?) to spread the news about the Lake Martin program to other sailing clubs across the South.

The club has four boats headed to Fort Walton Beach this month to compete in the weeklong Catalina 22 Nationals, including last year’s champion and former National Commodore for the 22 class Keith Bennett, a DSC member. Other former commodores and national champions are also current members, which fosters an atmosphere of friendly competition in the DSC. Club members look forward to a full summer on Lake Martin this year, including an all-day Introduction to Sailing event on Saturday, June 4. The introductory class is open to all ages, but pre-registration is required. The concept is to familiarize people with basic sailing terms and techniques, such as tipping drills and sailing with and into the wind.

The next youth clinic also starts in June when students will be sailing Optis and Lasers.

For more information on membership, sponsorships and upcoming events, visit www.dixiesailingclub.com and like them on Facebook.

MAY 2016

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MAY 2016

I

What did you miss?

can no longer drive in Auburn without Google from last year. Maybe that is why it feels like there Maps. is more upward pressure on prices than last year.

I used to know my way around the town. I could go by feel, recognizing landmarks to match What about lot sales? against the map in my head. No more. My wife Waterfront lot sales are in a dead heat with went to college there, and we go there a couple of 2015. In both the first quarter of 2016 and 2015, times a year for sporting events. I also seem to go 21 lots were sold. You might remember that while to Auburn three or four times a year on business, 2015 was not the record year in lot sales, it was but nowadays I find myself totally turned around still number two. Let’s don’t hate on it too much. and dependent on that female robot’s voice barkWhen I see that we are on par with last year in ing at me from my iPhone. She is only semi-helplot sales, I am impressed. I also note that, like ful. Roads have changed. Rules are different. Why home sales, inventory has decreased. At the end can’t she tell me where something used to be? of March, there were 129 waterfront lots for sale LAKE PROPERTY If she sees me heading towards the old Wendy’s on the lake. That represents a 13 percent decrease

BY JOHN COLEY location, she should be able to tell me, “John, you from 2015. Supply and demand dictates that if can no longer get Frosties and fries here. Try their sales are even, and quantity supplied is reduced, new location.” we can expect higher prices if the trend continues.

Similarly, I should be able to ask my phone questions like, “where did I used to tailgate with Jeff?” and “what is in that Water level win building where Milo’s used to be?” What if I could ask Google, I cannot overstate the importance of FERC granting Lake “What has changed since I was last here?”

Martin a new rule curve for the next 30 or so years. Casual fans Then we would be getting somewhere. probably missed this, because I find that even “old lake” folks It is in that spirit that I write this month’s column. Are you haven’t considered this effect. someone who has (unwisely) stayed away from Lake Martin The short story is this: We used to have to drop the water since the last time the temperature was 80 degrees? My first level 10 feet for winter, starting at Labor Day. Now, we only instinct is to punish you for your foolhardy absence. But, I will, have to drop it seven feet, and can keep it full until Oct. 15 if nevertheless, brief you on what you have missed so that you are we have enough rain. a little more informed than I am when driving down University Make no mistake, Earthlings: The Lord God sends the rain.

Boulevard.

There is nothing we can control about that; however, the fact that we can keep more of it gives Lake Martin yet another reaHow do waterfront home sales compare to last year? son to continue to prosper for the next three decades. Not only The last time I wrote about waterfront home sales in will it help real estate prices, but also, I think the immediate these pages, it was to share the good news that 2015 was a benefit will be to local businesses. record-breaking year for the Lake Martin real estate market.

More waterfront homes were sold last year than any year on Local yokels thriving record. Given that high bar of performance, will 2016 be able to Speaking of local businesses, I see anecdotal evidence continue that sales momentum? of the return of salad days. Over the winter, several spots A look at the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors’ have expanded, like waterfront pizzeria Chuck’s and east side Multiple Listing Service (MLS) shows that, so far, 2016 is a stalwart Oskar’s. I see physical and virtual “Help Wanted” bit behind 2015. Through March 31, 51 waterfront homes have signs all over the lake, from Lake Martin Pizza to TowBoat been sold by all agents in the MLS. Lake Martin. A new marina, Smith Marina, is slated to open.

At the same point last year, 60 homes had been sold. I don’t The Landing at Parker Creek had an excellent freshman season think it is quite time to panic, as the first quarter in the calenand is back for more. Russell Marine and Singleton Marine dar is always the least predictable of our sales year. We have Group continue to shatter boat sales and rank among the best another nine months to go, and it would be premature to call in the nation. And real estate agents? As in any bull market, the this year a loser so soon. January 2016 beat the prior year, but number of new agents joining our MLS is steadily rising.

March of 2015 was such a monster sales month that it pushed Stories like these might just be cherry picking. Maybe I am last year ahead; however, I must admit that I was surprised at biased in my examples. There is no stock market index for this number.

Lake Martin business, no scientific way for me to track these My gut told me that the first three months of this year would things. But if there were, I would not short it. be ahead because it feels so much hotter. I am seeing multiple Can you see what you missed this winter at Lake Martin? contracts being submitted on homes. Buyers are calling agents Please don’t stay gone for so long next time! instead of the other way around.

Now, can one of you college kids tell me where the SaniFreeze is these days?

So why doesn’t my feeling match up with the numbers?

I think it is because of inventory. There simply are fewer John Coley is a broker and owner of Lake Martin Voice waterfront homes on Lake Martin for sale this year. At the end Realty. He is also the author of the blog Lake Martin Voice at of March, the MLS showed 333 homes for sale, down 8 percent LakeMartinVoice.com.

MAY 2016

LAKE 67

Lake Q&A:

Vicki Tuggle

Special Events Coordinator, Children’s Harbor

68 LAKE

MAY 2016

Where are you from originally?

I grew up in Clay County, but my family moved here several years ago. My husband’s family also is from Alexander City, so we both call it home.

How long have you been here, and what places have you visited at the lake so far?

Although my family and I have lived away from the Lake Martin area, we are here for many holidays and throughout the summer. Our teenagers have grown up going to all the special events around the lake: Memorial Day Art on the Lake, July 4 fireworks, etc.

We’re regulars at Church in the Pines during the summers, too.

What is your role at Children’s Harbor?

I am part of a team of staff whose mission it is to carry on the great work that has been done in the past at this wonderful organization. Children’s Harbor’s events throughout the year generate much of the funding needed to provide the services at the Lake Martin campus and the Family Center located at the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children in Birmingham. My job is to make sure these events are successful and run smoothly.

How did you become a special events coordinator?

I have been involved with many different organizations and fundraisers over the years and would consider myself to be seasoned in the art of putting on an event.

I love the challenge of putting together great events and working with the teams of great people who make these possible.

How did you first hear about Children’s Harbor?

Michael and I were married at the Chapel at Children’s Harbor over 22 years ago and have always felt a connection to the organization and its mission. I have several friends who work for Children’s Harbor who have kept me in touch with the tremendous work they do. Our church, Vestavia Hills United Methodist, has also been a supporter over the years, so that has allowed us a way to keep connected.

We have a team of people who bring a meal once a month to the families at the Children’s Harbor Family Center in Birmingham. Most people know about the great work we do at the Lake Martin campus, but few have heard about the Family Center at the Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children in Birmingham. Last year, we served over 27,000 individuals.

All services we provide are at no charge and include activities, recreation opportunities, professional coun-

seling, education, respite and other supportive services during and after hospitalization. It’s an amazing place!

Do you live on the lake? If so, where?

We live in Vestavia Hills but are blessed to have a family lake home in Windermere, where we can all come together as much as possible.

What do you like to do for fun at the lake?

We love the water, so anything from lounging on the dock by the lake, riding on personal watercraft or in a boat. Just relaxing is fun to me.

How did you and your husband meet?

Michael and I met through mutual friends in Birmingham after both graduating from Auburn. We grew up 30 miles apart and were at Auburn at the same time, but it took several years for our paths to cross.

If you could have dinner with any three people from any era, who would they be and why?

Please don’t hold me to just three. If I could go back to any era, I would choose to be at the most famous dinner, The Last Supper. As a Christian and someone who has been in church ministry for over 14 years, I would love to be at the table with them and just listen to the conversations that must have been taking place. I have studied about the disciples and enjoy learning about the personalities that made up the group. Such a diverse collection of people! They all had great gifts but also faults, as each of us do.

What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received and from whom did it come?

The hardest job I’ve ever had is being a parent, especially during the teenage years. Currently, our children are 17, 16 and 13. Recently, a friend complimented me on the patience I have with my children. Most days are challenging, and your patience is tested a lot by teenagers. I must have been having a good day.

What are you interested in seeing or doing at the lake?

One of my favorite things to do at the lake is go to Art on the Lake, which is held at Children’s Harbor on Saturday and Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, the traditional kick-off to summer. It’s a great place to see folks who are coming back to the lake for the summer and to shop for some beautiful art and crafts. And, of course, we always look forward to the summer season at Church in the Pines.

MAY 2016

LAKE 69

70 LAKE

MAY 2016

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72 LAKE

MAY 2016

Early season cautions: Watch for debris, stay warm and get a proper board fit

T

hough winter is probably time to add behind us and to your quiver a board the water level is that’s the opposite of full pool, debris is still what you’ve been riding. a bit of a problem this You definitely need time of the year. When to get someone to help the water fills up Lake you fit the board to your BEHIND THE BOAT Martin, everything that size and weight and that

BY SAWYER DAVIS was on shore makes its to the wave you’re ridway into the lake, and ing. The same 5-foot some of it can be detrimental to the boat 10-inch, 180-pound rider on a competi– and your rider if she’s unlucky enough tion size wave would not really enjoy tryto fall into it. I’ve actually seen a few ing to ride that board behind a boat that’s near misses. running a normal sized surf wake. He Remember that boats hulls, drive would have to work really hard to stay in shafts and props can all be fixed; howthe drive of the wave and would have to ever, if a rider falls into something lowsurf too close to the boat. floating, like a part of a tree, that’s a trip The proper setup for a rider’s size/ to the hospital. weight/wake should allow her to surf Until this stuff makes its way to the way back on the wave. bottom or back to shore, it might be in The best way to figure out what you your best interest to take a ride through like is to ride the board, but if you can’t, the slough and make sure there is nothyou need to be able to tell the salesman ing is floating around before you hit it. what you want to do on the board. If you I’ve seen a wave runner port floating in want to learn 360s, you don’t want to the middle of the lake; trees; all sorts of buy a 5-fin surfstyle, but if you want to wood from docks, so just be careful. cruise around and just ride the wave a bit This early in the season, Neoprene is and carve around, then the 5-fin surfstyle your friend. The lake was at 66 degrees could be perfect. One size does not fit all. the other day, and it felt it. I’m a huge fan A small kid would be miserable on a of the long-sleeved Neoprene top. It is board that fits an average adult. the most used wet suit piece I use every Again, it’s all wave-specific as well, year. You can even layer it with a shorty, so make sure you explain to the salesman which I do early in the season. I don’t what boat you use and the weight you like to be cold out there. add, so he can get a good understanding There’s a lot of new stuff out for on how to fit your family.

2016, and via conversations with sales The number one thing I have to teach and company reps, I’ve confirmed that new students is not to surf too close to wakesurfing continues to overtake the the boat. This happens for a number market. One rep told me 40 percent of of reasons, the first of which is that the his territory was buying more surfboards wake is not set up properly in terms of than wakeboards. how the boat is weighted. In this case, The wakesurf lines are growing by the wave is tall but not very long, and the leaps and bounds. This year features tons rider is stuck right at the platform. This of different shapes, fin set ups and thickis not fun. nesses, which some of you have found is If it is a proper wave but the rider is important when it’s time to put it in the surfing a few feet off the platform, it’s board rack! generally because the board is too small So there is the question of surf style and that is the fastest, hardest pushing or skim. area in the wave, which does keep her Well, if you’re new to wakesurfing, moving along with the boat without the this is the question. rope. But it’s not a good place to surf.

If you’re an experienced rider, it’s The goal is to drop way back on the MAY 2016

wave and ride forward up and down the wave face, hopefully doing some tricks as you progress in your riding. The tricks should be done behind where 75 percent of the people I coach start out riding on the wave.

You want to ride all over the wave and stay back from the first few feet off the platform. If you’re back on the wave, the board’s rail can dig into the wave face better.

Summer is around the corner, so make sure you get that last push of training in just before the season really hits full swing. If you’re starting late, pull-ups are the best, quickest and most efficient way to get strong in the upper body.

See you on the water!

Sawyer Davis is a wakesurfer for Victoria skimboards and grew up on Lake Martin.

LAKE 73

T

Cold Day for a Swim

aking a dip in Lake “Certainly Jacob, I think Martin in the middle that is a great idea, and of winter was not on LMRA will be very appremy “bucket list” and was ciative and support you in not something I would have every way.” ever, ever done without a Jacob’s next statement very good reason or a very was a little sobering, “What bad accident. I did it, surif we lose money? Will vived it, and I’m pleased to LMRA help offset our say that it was a great expelosses?”

LMRA rience.

I’ve crawled out on limbs

BY JOHN THOMPSON In early December, I before and knew I was received a call from Jacob Meacham, heading there again, but with a group Vice President of the Alexander City consisting of talented young people like Chamber of Commerce who has been Jacob Meacham and Emily McDaniel, given the responsibility for organizing an as well as recently elected LMRA Board energetic group of “Young Professionals” of Director members Lacey Howell, (YP).

Jackson Lilly and Jackson Dozier, our Jacob suggested that the group, as financial exposure would probably be their first fundraising event, wanted to minimal. That was until I heard the full sponsor a “Lake Martin Polar Plunge” plans for the event featuring live music, with the proceeds to be donated to Lake Kowaliga Restaurant, T-shirts, family Martin Resources Association (LMRA). affair, games, etc.

My reply to Jacob did not completely Too late to back out; we were in. reflect my honest reaction.

First event for a newly formed group;

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first Polar Plunge on Lake Martin; first fundraiser for LMRA. To top it off, the weather forecast for Saturday, Jan. 23 – the day of the event – was horrible: High temperature in the low 30s, strong winds, possible sleet, and of course, by this time, I had fully committed to take the Plunge.

Along with the previously mentioned “young” LMRA board members, I was to be joined by Larry Tuggle and Will Denton, who are much closer to my age group. Needless to say, our spouses and most of our friends questioned our sanity.

On the day of the event, the weather came in as forecast, the coldest day of the year with white caps on the lake. The water temperature was sub-50 degrees, and Kowaliga Restaurant was packed with spectators and Plunge participants.

Unbelievably, more than 250 people turned out to witness 50 “crazies,” including some young ladies looking very cold clad in bikinis, take the Plunge.

No one expected such a huge turnout; the staff at Kowaliga Restaurant rallied quickly and did a great job of serving the cold, hungry crowd. The Plungers took a very quick dip, dried in record time and joined families to participate in fun activities and listen to great music that had been arranged by the YP. It was truly an outstanding event.

Everyone survived and immediately started talking about doing it again next year.

The YP did a great job of organizing, and best of all, Jacob and his team presented LMRA with a check for $3,300, which was probably the biggest and best surprise of all.

The LMRA Board of Directors has voted to place the entire proceeds toward improving boating safety on Lake Martin by installing additional lighted buoys in selected hazardous areas. Plans are now under way to increase the number of lighted buoys by at least 20 over the coming weeks.

This was the “coolest” fundraising event ever held on Lake Martin, and I am thankful to have been a part of it.

Thanks, Young Professionals.

John Thompson is president of LMRA. Learn more at www.lmra.info.

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74 LAKE

MAY 2016

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LAKE 75

FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS

FABULOUS FINDS

136 Oaks Point in River Oaks • $959,000 Incredible custom lake home on large point lot with 424 FT WF near Hwy 280. 4 BR, 4 BA with four car garage.

Solid oak flooring and cabinets, oak panel library, home theater. Call to see today!

First Realty Call Bill Whatley 256-234-5163 • 1-800-471-LAKE www.LakeMartinHomes.net

533 1st Street, Eclectic • $549,000 UNIQUE, UNIQUE Lake Home!! Open LR, Kit, DR w/ exposed beams and ductwork making for an Urban Cabin Feel!! Freestanding gas FP, vaulted ceilings, gorgeous heart pine floors, lots of windows. Kit. features large, imported wooden island from Europe w/concrete countertops, SS appliances, gas stove. Also, ice maker and wet bar. 2 BD w/ Jack n Jill BA on main level. Lower level has Master suite, 4th BD/BA and laundry.

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

236 Seven Bark Trl, Jacksons Gap • $395,000 This cozy 4BD/2.5BA lake home is the answer to all your lake needs! Located in the prime location of Columbine of River Oaks, nestled in a private cove. Great floor plan; master suite on main, 3BDs on terrace level. Features include updated kit. w/ SS appliances, hardwood floors, tray ceiling in FR, stone FP w/ gas logs. Bonus room downstairs could be den/office/playroom.

Great storage, new boat lift and decking, concrete drive and parking, and fenced dog run. Well maintained and move in ready!

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

267 South Lands End Road, Eclectic • $378,500 Fantastic One-Level, well-maintained cabin on Lake Martin w/3BDs/4BAs, hot tub, nice yard and good summertime water. Has open Den/DR with lovely stone FP, hearth and beautiful mantle. Open sunroom on lakeside, screened porch, lots of decks, nice size BDs w/big closets and an extra large bonus rm. that could be a family/game/bunk room.

Great storage under deck. Nice View and water. Call today!

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

160 Tankersley Road, Kellyton • $219,000 Town-Close, Country-Feel in Horseshoe Bend School District!!

Spacious one-level brick home, 3BD/2BA, LR, Game room, FR/ Sunroom w/vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, hardwood floors, lots of light, updated kitchen w/custom wood cabinetry, SS appliances, granite countertops, stone backsplash. 1000 sq. ft garage w/hobby or work rm. and storage. Lovely salt water pool w/new pool liner and pool house with outdoor shower. Separate garage, workshop bldg. and 2 storage bldgs. Yard filled with blooming fruit trees.

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

189 Williams Road, Apt. O-3, Alexander City • $186,500 READY AND WAITING! 3BD/2BA oversized condo at NLCC. Great location, 3rd floor facing river bridge.

Furnished w/SS appliances, Corian countertops and slate glass backsplash, vaulted ceiling in LR. Amenities include play area, two pools, hot tub, on-site grilling, large lobby/ gathering room. Comes w/ boat slip and storage room.

Perfect for vacationing or full-time living!! Call today.

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

1914 Dobbs, Alexander City • $172,500 If you're in the market for a lovely, well-built and wellmaintained brick home, we have just what you need!

Located in the established neighborhood of Dobbs Subdivision, 3BD/2BA, w/oversized bedrooms, lg. closets, solid wood doors, new recessed lighting in kit. and FR, storm windows, lg. laundry and abundant cabinets in kit.

Formal LR/DR, cedar lined closets. Fenced in back yard w/ spacious vaulted stone patio and built-in bcue pit.

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

134 Last Dollar Lane, Jacksons Gap • $395,000 UNTHINKABLE! Flat Lot, Sandy Beach, Incredible View, 370+- ft. of waterfront for under $400,000! Great location just minutes from Hwy. 280. 2 large BD/2BA, features wraparound deck, floating dock and gazebo on dock.

Lovely sunroom on lakeside, lots of windows, exposed beams. Low maintenance brick w/vinyl eaves. Nice storage bldg. Room to grow! Waiting for your family for summer fun! Call today.

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

56 Wind Hollow, Alexander City • $825,000 You could buy this FABULOUS house for your lake home, but why not live here for year round fun! Fully furnished and designed w/unique cottage decor throughout.

Abundance of room for family and guests, one-level living with two full suites upstairs!5BD/4BA, almost 300 ft. of waterfront and an awesome, flat lot w/its own sandy beach.Large, open den/dining w/vaulted ceiling and stone fireplace.

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

76 LAKE

MAY 2016

FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS

FABULOUS FINDS

Lot 40 North Willow Way, Alexander City • $395,000 A RARE FIND - lake lot in the gate guarded community of Willow Point. +/Two acre lot that is located in Phase 6B. No association dues. Privacy with nice view from cove. Don't miss out on the one and only lake lot currently available in WP! Build that perfect Lake home in this prestigious neighborhood!

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

922 Beach island Trace, Dadeville • $179,000 Beauty, Warmth, Value! This 3br/2ba charming home tucked away on wooded lot in Still Waters. Open kit, living rm, dining rm, breakfast nook, w/ new hardwoods. New stainless steel stove & dishwasher, frig 2yrs old in Kit. Bonus Rm above garage. Master BR has new carpet. Relax on the screen porch or enjoy the outdoors entertaining on the deck and grilling on stone grill. Roof 2yrs old. Must See. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com

359 Quail Hollow Drive, Dadeville • $599,000 Mid-lake PERFECT location FLAT POINT lot in lovely Old Susanna. Upgraded/ lovingly remodeled adorable 4BR/3Ba cottage has breathtaking sunset views. 2 docks, lakeside gazebo has kitchenette, floating dock, SeaDoo port, seawall, private concrete boatlaunch w/nightlight. TWO 2-car garages+HUGE 2-bay RV carport.

Generous parking.Screen porch, grilling deck, upper lookout deck, pet fencing.

New metal roof+new storm windows.Master suite on main level + second master suite on upper level. Private area of beautiful lakehomes. Super convenient area only about 5 min to downtown Dadeville, about 40 min to Auburn.

Amy Clark Real Estate Amy or Todd Clark 256-749-3333 or 256-749-2102 sellinglakemartin.com

98 Bay Pine Court, Jacksons Gap • $749,000 Full-time or summer Lake Martin living! Sweet Bay Pine area complete w/large 4BR, 3BA sprawling home. Separate guest cottage ready to be finished to your specs. 2 Docks. Double boathouse w/3 roll doors. Lakeside firepit. Over 400 feet of lake front. Breathtaking sunsets.

Main house has HUGE central greatroom w/wood-burning fireplace, SUNROOM w/ lakeviews from 3 sides. 2 master suites. Updated fresh kitchen has granite counters, stainless appliances, bar. Main level has 3 BR, 3 full BA, kitchen, greatroom, breakfast, sunroom, & grilling deck. You'll enjoy the outdoor covered patio area on the lower lakeside walk-out level.

Double boathouse is HUGE space. The 2nd dock is located adjacent to the boathouse.

Amy Clark Real Estate Amy or Todd Clark 256-749-3333 or 256-749-2102 sellinglakemartin.com

South Ridge Harbor, Brooke Ann • $1,325,000 Under Construction by RLH Construction, this elegant lake home designed by Chuck Frusterio is full of features for lake living. Owner’s retreat and guest suite are on the main level. Two great rooms, generous lake toy storage, expansive covered deck and terrace and 2-car garage completes this plan.

Russell Lands On Lake Martin Call Emily or Rhonda 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

Willow Glynn, Cove Cottage • $1,197,000 Summer 2016 – SouthLake Homes introduces the Cove Cottage! Designed by Mitch Ginn, find the owner’s suite, guest bedroom, bunkroom, and bonus loft room on main level. Expansive open kitchen-dining-living areas with access to large covered porch. Lake level offers 2 guest suites, large family room, covered patio and bar for plenty of lake fun.

Russell Lands On Lake Martin Contact Rhonda or Emily 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

South Ridge Harbor, Stone Manor • $1,465,000 Newcastle Construction has begun construction of this beautiful home design by architect David Smelcer. The natural stone and wood is artfully blended to create an eyecatching design offering an open floor plan with 2 owner’s suites on main level and 3 additional guest rooms on terrace level. Wonderful lake living areas with 2 family rooms, lake prep room and more!

Russell Lands On Lake Martin Contact Rhonda or Emily 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

Russell Cabins, Longleaf A Jonathan Torode design with Classic Homes builder, this plan is a must see. Owner’s suite on main level with big lake views. Spacious kitchen area with huge dinner island. Expansive living-dining room with wonderful water views, stone fireplace and spacious porches and decks.

Versatile design with two upper level options. See this and other plans available.

Russell Lands On Lake Martin Call Emily or Rhonda 256. 215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

Russell Cabins, Double Take Architect Alex Krumdieck and Classic Homes builder is a great combination for a fantastic lake home. With two owner’s suites on main level, open living-dining-kitchen spaces and wonderful adjacent outdoor living space, lake living couldn’t be more perfect. To complete the plan, 2 additional bedrooms and baths are on upper level. See this and other plans available.

Russell Lands On Lake Martin Emily or Rhonda 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

MAY 2016

LAKE 77

FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS

FABULOUS FINDS

160 Ridge Crest, Alexander City • $3,950,000 The Ridge on Lake Martin - Attention to detail is all here in this exceptional 5BR, 5.5 BA, 8,400 +- sq. ft. lake residence that was built to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Martin. This spacious one of a kind Timber Peg designed home features all the amenities inside and out for you to enjoy lakefront living.

Private with 665 ft +- of deep waterfront, two separate dock systems and a protected swimming area for the kids. Too many features to list, so make your appointment now to see this spectacular Lake Martin home in The Ridge!

Lake Martin Realty David Mitchell 256.215.3511 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

401 Hickory Hill Road, Dadeville • $719,000 Exactly what you have been looking for! Fully furnished 4br 3ba lake home in Blue Creek area. Killer boat house, outdoor living, and amazing terrace level with kitchen, bathroom and bunk room. Don't let this one pass you by.

Hardi plank siding, Evergrain decking, Central Vac System, icemaker machine, Davis Vantage Pro2 Weather Station. The list goes on!!

Lake Martin Realty Michelle Brooks 256.749.1031 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

108 Wind Hollow, Alexander City • $675,000 WOW - what a find in Windermere West! This home has a spacious, updated kitchen, wood burning fireplace in the family room, beautiful pine floors & 2 bedrooms on the main level. Upstairs is an additional bedroom, bath & spacious sleeping loft. There are plenty of windows featuring the flat lakeside yard, pier, seawall, play area & 193+/- ft of shoreline. Screen porch, deck & views are also nice!

Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

27 Wind Crest Court, Alexander City • $1,400,000 Unique and over the top! Custom built home with some of the most gorgeous wood and woodwork you have ever seen. The stone fireplace, the kitchen; the attention to detail in every aspect of this house. Definitely not a cookie cutter house. Spacious, exquisite and still boasting a lake look.

Wrap around porches making views of Lake Martin just perfect. Call us to see this well-built home!

Lake Martin Realty India Davis 256.749.7592 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

379 Glynmere, Alexander City • $1,295,000 Beautiful home located in Willow Point with 6 bedrooms, upgrades throughout, community pool, boat slip, sandy beach. 2 great rooms, each with a rock fireplace. Big water views and no yard maintenance!

Lake Martin Realty Jan Hall 256.329.6313 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

232 Wind Mist, Alexander City, • $995,000 This is truly a remarkable home with many luxuries!

Fantastic view on a point, year round water,330 ft of shoreline, 1800 sq ft of decks, and easy short steps to the lake!!

Lake Martin Realty Hugh Neighbors 256.750.5071 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

87 Sunset Drive, Dadeville • $895,000 Architecturally designed by ''Mitch Ginn'' to capture expansive views of Lake Martin! Large great room open to upscale kitchen with vaulted wood ceilings, granite, stainless appliances and rock backsplash. Master on the main floor with beautiful bath and big walk-in closet. The terrace level offers summer kitchen, 2nd family room, 4 BR, 2 BA. Outside enjoy beautiful BIG SUNSET VIEW, covered deck, covered patio, GREAT SWIMMING area, AWESOME BOAT HOUSE with two boat slips and lifts, sea doo port and storage. Don't miss this opportunity to own this perfect Lake Martin home! Call today!

Lake Martin Realty Rhonda Jaye Gaston 256.749.8681 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

35 Canoe Point, Equality • $795,000 New Construction. The Shell Cracker XL is a great terrace level floor plan designed by Mitch Ginn. Home features two bedrooms and baths on both main and terrace levels. Terrace also has game room with summer kitchen. Located in the new development of Cedar Point with large lots and incredible views. This pre-sale package includes the lot, cottage, seawall, and dock.

Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

Lot 16 Cedar Point, Equality • $810,000 Proposed new construction. Plans by architect Mitch Ginn.

Located in the new development of Cedar Point. Large lots with incredible views. Other plans and lots available.

Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

78 LAKE

MAY 2016

Looking to buy or build a lake home this spring?

Let our local team of lenders help you!

Equal Housing Lender

Klay Peters Executive Vice President NMLS #822776

kpeters@primesouthbank.com

1217 Gilmer Ave. Tallassee, AL. 36078 334-283-8368

Derona G. Wilson Residential Lending Officer NMLS #201585

dwilson@primesouthbank.com

LAKE MARTIN BUILDING SUPPLY

2695 Dadeville Road

256.234.5500

Alexander City, AL

225 Emma Lane Pike Road, AL. 36064 334-387-1655

Brad Mason Vice President Lending NMLS #1470908

bmason@primesouthbank.com

301 Main St. Tallassee, AL. 36078 334-283-6594

MAY 2016

LAKE 79

Post-spawn Fishing Learn when, where and what baits to use to bring in the catch this month

80 LAKE

MAY 2016

T

he month of May in the Southeast Bream will be starting to bed and will often reminds me a lot of the fall transition set up in the same areas as the bass the month we often see during October: The bass prior. I like to think the bass get a little are once again on the move; the spawn has revenge on the bream during May for pesterconcluded for the most part; and it seems that ing their nests and fry (juveniles). the fish can become scattered again. Some In addition, crawfish will be molting and, may choose to hang around shallow; some therefore, will be easier for the bass to crush take off to structure to feed; and some occupy and digest. the steps in between. The good news is that Tournament anglers often pay attention the bass are again focusing on feeding, and to what’s left in their livewells after holding that can present some very good opportunities a few bass. If the fish were actively feeding for those who can intercept them. when they were caught, chances are they left a BIG CATCHES Oftentimes, when fishing during the spawnfew clues floating in the livewell.

BY GREG VINSON ing season, I fear that I might be fishing right This is a great indicator of exactly what forpast a lot of fish that are in that mode. I’m in age the fish keyed on at the time. It’s also an the right areas that are holding fish, but it’s difficult to fish opportunity for bass anglers to “match the hatch.” slowly enough and precisely enough to trigger them.

The morning is a critical period during late spring and When I think the fish have finished their annual ritual early summer, and it’s important to fish aggressively to of spawning, I gain more confidence in picking up the capitalize on this time frame. pace and covering water. I’m convinced that more of them Be prepared to cover water early with moving baits or are looking for a meal, and I’m going to get a good pertopwater. As the sun comes up, the activity level may slow centage of them to bite if I can present the right offerings. down some and so should you. Hopefully, you’ve gotten I always like to start my pursuit of bass by visualizing some quality bites mixed with the early morning activity, where they should be located based on the known condiand you can be more thorough in targeting quality fish in tions. Keep in mind that most ideas are guidelines and more precise areas. certainly not rules.

This May, seize the moment and get out early and/or We are chasing a wild creature, and it’s impossible stay late. This is a great time of year for anglers. to know everything that influences their movements or moods at a given time. Fish need comfortable conditions Greg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on that, at the most basic level, are food, water temperature, the Bassmaster Elite Series and PAA tours. He lives in dissolved oxygen and habitat. An area that offers a good Wetumpka and grew up fishing on Lake Martin. combination of these things is where you want to start your search.

Next, consider what the fish are probably eating.

Remember that they need to build body mass after the rigors of the spawning season, and they have to do it quickly while the opportunity presents itself.

On our area lakes, there are a few prey options that stand out on a regular basis, and May is no exception.

Shad are very plentiful and vulnerable early in the mornings. On some lakes, including Lake Martin, blue-back herring (also a shad species) are present and must be factored in. Bream are going to be victims, too, as well as crawfish.

Shad will typically be close to deeper water but may still be close to the bank, especially in the morning.

MAY 2016

LAKE 81

Crispy Yukon Gold Potatoes Ingredients

10 medium-sized Yukon Gold potatoes 3 cups kosher salt 1 quart peanut oil 1 deep heavy-bottomed Dutch oven 1 5x8 baking dish Salt and fresh black pepper for seasoning Grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, scallion (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place salt in the bottom of your baking dish; add

82 LAKE

potatoes on top of the salt. Wrap tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove from oven and allow to cool. Once they have cooled, mash potatoes flat; then, break into pieces; 30 minutes before ready to serve, heat peanut oil to 350 degrees in Dutch oven. Fry potatoes in small batches until golden brown and crispy; drain on a paper sack and season with salt and pepper. I also like to finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley and scallion.

CHEF’S TABLE

BY ROB MCDANIEL

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

MAY 2016

Oh, nuts!

N

uts and seeds have density they offer. This is been around since definitely a concern, and the beginning of we should all be mindful time. Now more than of the portion size and the ever, they are attracting a calories per serving. lot of attention. Walnuts, The typical portion size almonds, chia and flax is 1 ounce or 1/4 cup or a definitely get most of the small palm full. On averattention; although, it age, they range from 140 seems that each type of to 180 calories per ounce. nut and seed can deliver The National Health some health benefits. and Nutrition Examination HEALTHY LIVING Survey (NHANES), which Nutrient compositions BY JULIE HUDSON of both nuts and seeds is a study that lasted from differ slightly, depend2005 to 2010, has shown ing on the type; however, as a general that individuals who consume at least rule, nuts and seeds provide a source 1/4 ounce of tree nuts per day have of healthy fats, fiber, plant protein, lower weight, BMI and waist circumessential vitamins and minerals. Nuts ference than those who do not eat and seeds contain compounds that nuts. Nuts are very satiating and could provide a lot of antioxidant and antibe one explanation for the outcome. inflammatory properties.

As researchers continue to study the Research has proven that tree nuts calories in tree nuts, they have found are known to be beneficial in reducing walnuts, almonds and pistachios may chronic diseases, such as cardiovascu- not have as many calories as we once lar disease, type 2 diabetes and some thought. These findings could bring forms of cancer. There is also eviabout some really positive outcomes dence suggesting that adding tree nuts because of the potential health bento your diet will help reduce the risk efits and could reduce the barriers for for conditions, such as hypertension, consumption. high cholesterol, insulin resistance, Nuts and seeds vary in their nutriabdominal obesity, endothelial dysent make up, so it is important to function, oxidative stress and inflamincorporate a variety of nuts and seeds mation, which may lead to disease. into your diet. Try eating them raw or Recent studies show a definite con- toasted. Add them to salads, oatmeal, nection between nut consumption and yogurt, smoothies, rice, quinoa or reduced risk of hypertension and carother grains. Nuts and seeds add wondiovascular disease; however, not so derful flavor and texture, not to forget much for type 2 diabetes. The results about the boost of nutrition. indicate protection against overall Nuts and seeds offer an amazmortality with those consuming only ing amount of nutrition. They differ one serving per day. The research is so slightly from each other, so consume profound that the Dietary Guidelines a variety. Keep the serving size in in the United States, Canada and other perspective and incorporate them into countries recommend making nuts a your diet in creative ways, and you part of your healthy diet. The Food can’t go wrong! and Drug Administration supports health claims for nuts for reducing Julie Hudson is a dietician at heart disease. the Lake Martin Wellness Center in Research has shown that most of us Dadeville. approach nuts and seeds with extreme caution, probably due to the caloric MAY 2016

Nuts and Seeds Almonds: High in monounsaturated fat; reduce risk of cardiovascular disease; antioxidant function of Vitamin E (37 percent of daily value in 1 ounce); play a huge role in cardiovascular health.

Pecans: High in several forms of Vitamin E and rich in a substance known to stop oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

Walnuts: Excellent source of plant-based Omega 3 fatty acids; best choice for anti-inflammatory benefits. Rich in forms of Vitamin E and have shown to help in cognitive function in all adults. Natural source of melatonin.

Brazil Nuts and Cashews: Actually seeds, not nuts. Brazil nuts provide 767 percent of daily recommendation for the antioxidant mineral, selenium. Cashews are lower in fat than most nuts and contain anacardic acid, which may improve insulin sensitivity and help prevent chronic inflammation.

Chia, Flax and Hemp: Chia seeds are best known for fiber content (10 grams per ounce) and provide significant antioxidants and calcium and minerals; high in Omega 3 fatty acids.

Hemp seeds contain 9 grams protein per ounce; contain all 10 essential amino acids and are rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6, fiber, magnesium, zinc, iron and potassium.

Pumpkin Seeds: Contain Vitamin E and antioxidant nutrients.

Sesame Seeds: Rich in cholesterol-lowering phytosterols.

Sunflower Seeds: High in the antioxidant duo Vitamin E and selenium; noted for their phytosterol, fiber and protein content.

LAKE 83

Swirl, Sniff, Sip The reason for the ritual of tasting wine

84 LAKE

MAY 2016

D

espite the trend aerates it and excites in society toward those aroma molecules, less formality, which makes the “nose” some rituals are second or bouquet easier to nature for wine enthudetect, which by the way, siasts. The practice of doesn’t always happen. swirl, sniff and sip can Many whites, rosés and quickly become autosimple reds don’t have matic and as natural as the structure to produce blinking. I would have a noticeable nose or to said breathing, but wine enhance the flavor by also breathes and that aeration. may have been a little faint bouquet can FROM THE CELLAR be Aenhanced confusing. by covering

BY HENRY FOY When we breathe, it is the bowl of the glass with respiration; when wine your hand while swirling breathes, it is aeration, the intentional just before you take a whiff of what exposure of wine to air, which begins the wine has to offer. as soon as the cork is removed. With The downside of incorporating air wine, breathing and aeration are into the wine is that while the process essentially the same things. initially is beneficial, air is the numPouring wine into a glass or ber one enemy of wine. As soon as decanter accelerates the process, as the bottle is opened, the wine begins does swirling wine in a glass. This to deteriorate, oxidize and ruin. A exposure to air, particularly in swirlfaulty or dry cork can also allow air ing the glass, incorporates air with the to reach and ultimately oxidize wine wine, allowing aroma molecules that in the unopened bottle. have been trapped in the bottle for Here’s an experiment that you can months or years to expand, revealing try at home with three wines that benthe wine’s bouquet. efit from breathing. Belle Glos Clark Some would say it helps to soften and Telephone Pinot Noir is on the tannic young wines; others believe shelf at $45, and we don’t hesitate that aeration dulls the wine’s flavor. to advise that this wine will be betTo each his own, but most importantter with a minimum of 30 minutes of ly, every wine is different. breathing. Root One Carmenere is a Though wines are the same on $10 wine that will be amazing given one hand, the distinction between a little time; hold this one for 30 minaeration and breathing might be that utes after opening as well. aeration is what we do to allow the Joel Gott Cabernet Sauvignon is wine to breathe. That is, we open the one that we pour by the glass at Café bottle; we decant the wine; we pour a 128 for $6; it has a strong following. glass and swirl the wine in the glass.

It is a little tight upon opening and is Breathing is what the wine does as it actually better, after proper storage, sits in the bottle, absorbing fresh air on the second day. Proper storage while waiting to be swirled, sniffed means pumping the air out using a or sipped. It is an important but often stopper made for that purpose. overlooked aspect of enjoying wine.

Not every wine needs or will benWe have all done it at some point, efit substantially from breathing, and maybe without realizing it. We get to decanting can usually be reserved the last pour out of a bottle that sat on for more mature wines, as sediment the dining table for an hour, and it is may affect the taste and texture of the fantastic, flavorful and “wow, that’s wine. nice.”

With most wines, pouring one glass Okay, maybe it’s the second bottle. will expose enough surface area to Some of my friends are wondering adequately allow that wine to breathe. how an open bottle of wine can sit Likewise, taking in the bouquet of our on the dining table for an hour and wine parallels our interest, experience still have wine in it. Note to friends: and ability to detect and appreciate You’re drinking too fast. Most wines the nuances of its aroma. Women are benefit from breathing, and an hour is often better at this than men. not in the least extravagant.

Though the swirl and sniff porSwirling a glass of wine further tions of the ritual could be minimized, MAY 2016

the third step – sipping – cannot be ignored. By definition, a sip is a small amount. Some beverages can be chugged or gulped, but wine is best when sipped and savored.

The logic for sipping is very simple. Any more than a sip will wash right past the taste buds without registering any information or sending data to our brains. Ideally, a sip would be held in the mouth until our impressions are fully analyzed.

Our wine tasting this month will feature wines presented by John Mark Davis of Pinnacle Imports in the Pacific Northwest. The wines will include a Riesling and the L’ecole Chardonnay, Domaine Serene Pinot Noir, Hedges Syrah and Foris Fly Over Red. Join us on the third Thursdays to swirl, sniff and sip a path to civility.

Henry Foy is the owner of Emporium Wine, Café 128, Gallery 128 and Lake Martin’s only walkin cigar humidor located in downtown Alexander City at 128 Calhoun St. He can be reached at 256-212WINE, on Instagram, Facebook and at emporium128@bellsouth.net.

LAKE 85

86 LAKE

MAY 2016

The Gate

Pro Tips From Lee Williams I know it’s hard to remember watching Tiger Woods play golf, but the top thing that comes to my mind about Tiger is how great of a putter he was. He had a couple of drills that he did consistently, helping him to become the putter we all remember. One of his main drills is called the gate drill. This drill is designed to help you make solid contact, hitting the ball squarely in the center of the putter face.

As you know, solid contact helps achieve consistent speed and a true roll on the ball. To set up the gate drill, find a putt that is straight from 6 feet. Gather two tees, and after you set up to the ball aiming at the center of the cup, place a tee on each side of the putter. I would start with a small margin for error by allowing an extra quarter of an inch or a little less on each side of the putter. If this is too easy, narrow the amount of space on each side of the putter to an amount that is challenging. If you can consistently putt and not hit the tees, you know that you are doing a good job of hitting the ball in the center of the putter face. I believe a passing grade on this drill would be 70 percent of the time not making contact with a tee with the ball rolling into the cup.

This is a very simple drill that I have watched Tiger do for years, and one that can also help you achieve a higher level of putting success.

Good Luck!

Lee Williams, a professional golfer on the PGA Tour, grew up playing golf at Willow Point Country Club. As an amateur, Williams was a member of the 2003 and 2005 Walker Cup teams, as well as the 2004 World Amateur Team. He is sponsored by Russell Lands, King Honda, Nowlin and Associates, P.F. Chang’s, Tempus Jet, Hyatt, Adams Golf, Russell Athletic, Titleist, Ameritas Financial Corp. and Southwest Airlines.

Playing with(out) sole

BY BETSY ILER

Birmingham’s Pat Upton, 46, last month lost his footing while playing Willow Point as the guest of his uncle.

The two walked 18 holes on a lovely spring morning after an evening thunderstorm, and Upton wore the Adidas golf shoes he’d purchased in 1999 at Brookside, the Rose Bowl course in Pasadena, California.

“I had never had any problem with those shoes before,” Upton said. “They always inspired my play. They were 17 years old. They had been with me playing golf that long.

But I hadn’t worn them for a while, and that may have been part of the problem. I figure the warranty wore out on them on the second hole at Willow Point, and they were done.”

When Upton made his second shot on the third hole, the banding that covered the seam on his right shoe came off.

“I should have kept it and used it as a headband,” he said.

On his next shot, the sole heel separated from the canvas upper and flapped clumsily as he limped across the fairway.

“I was walking on the foam liner, playing way over par,” he said.

At No. 5, Upton weighed the option of changing his shoes but decided he would have to walk to the clubhouse anyway, so he might as well play out the holes on the way.

At No. 6, still playing way over par with a hindered right plant, the whole sandwich of his left shoe came loose.

“So I was kind of skating, kind of shuffling along with my shoes making these flapping noises, and I birdied the sixth hole with my floppy shoes,” he said. “I kept going.”

When the play took Upton close to the clubhouse in his ‘golf moccasins,’ he met a couple of women who were heading onto the course. He greeted them and chatted for a moment before walking away with all the elegance of a circus clown.

“I changed my shoes in the locker room. Finished seven over on the back nine and retired the shoes with honors in a Willow Point trash can. I gave them a 21-swing salute. May they rest in pieces,” Upton said.

MAY 2016

LAKE 87

Legend

63

21

22

280

23

To Sylacauga

20

Public Boat Ramps

Alexander City

16

Churches 9

Camp ASCCA

Flint Hill Church

Camps & Parks 280

Power lines U.S. Highways

3

22

County Roads

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek State Park

Pleasant Grove Church

11

COOSA COUNTY

Alex City Boat Ramp

Mt. Zion Church

259 9

128

Russell Farms Baptist Church 63

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Friendship Church

11 20

Liberty Church

New Hope Church

14

Willow Point

24

34

5

7

Equality

Kowaliga Boat Landing

63 Camp Alamisco

8 19 The Ridge

55

4

Seman

Camp Kiwanis

1 9

Church in The Pines

Union Landing

Children’s Harbor

Trillium

22

2

The Amp Ko w

ali

15

ga

Ba

y

10 80

9

Central

90

ELMORE COUNTY Union Church

Red Hill 63

229

Eclectic

Tallassee

17 Kent

88 LAKE

Union

MAY 2016

Timbergut Landing

Horseshoe Bend National Park

Jaybird Landing

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

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

22. The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

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

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

49

42. Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

270 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Jacksons Gap

53. Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

8300 Parker Creek Marina Rd, Equality, AL 36026

280

62. Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

7280 Highway 49 South, Dadeville, AL 36853 Bethel Church

18

Dadeville

Restaurants

57

280

Camp Hill

Smith Landing

86. Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 9 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Pleasant Ridge Church

10 Harbor Docks Restaurant at Anchor Bay Marina 334-639-4723

2001 Cataway Island Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024

12 13 Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters

76. SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Business & Shopping 11 Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075 970 Hwy. 63 South, Alex City, AL 36024

Stillwaters

12 Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd 34, Dadeville, AL 36024

6

14 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt @ Smith's Marina 256-444-8793 1590 Pine Point Road, Alex City, AL 35010 5. Lake Martin Mini Mall 15 334.857.3900

7995 Kowaliga Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 16 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 17 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Building Supply 18 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 19 256-794-1333

111 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 4. Dark Insurance 20 256-234-5026

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 21 . McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583

1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010 22. Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024

Hotels & Lodging 23 2 Cherokee Bend Bed & Breakfast 877-760-7854

5833 Highway 22 East, Alex City 35010

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

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

13 EastLake Coffee @ Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd 34, Dadeville, AL 36024

Walnut Hill 50 50

49

Reeltown

MAY 2016

LAKE 89

Lake Magazine Distribution ALEXANDER CITY Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Q Campus of CACC Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart El Rancho Grande Emporium Wine Grace’s Flowers Hampton Inn Holley’s Home Furnishings Hometown Pharmacy Jackson Drugs

Jake’s JR’s Sports Bar & Grill Koon’s Korner Koon’s Korner II Lake Martin Building Supply Lakewinds Golf Club Larry’s General Store Little Black Dress Longleaf Antiques Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot USAmeribank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

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

DADEVILLE American Motorsports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foodland Foshee's Boat Doc Homeplate Restaurant Harbor Pointe Marina Lakay’s Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Flowers & Gifts Lake Martin Community Hospital

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

EQUALITY Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

KELLYTON Five Star Plantation

RED HILL Citgo

TALLASSEE Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce The Tallassee Tribune

WALNUT HILL Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA The Wetumpka Herald A limited number of magazines are available at these locations. To start your subscription, call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281.

Lake Martin Business and Service Directory

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

COACH KRAFT

UPHOLSTERY Complete Marine Upholstery!

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

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Patrick Mason 334-283-6759 676 Dean Circle • Tallassee, AL www.coachkraft.com

H

OLMAN

“WE’RE

F

LOOR

C

OMPANY

THE PROFESSIONALS”

Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Carpet & Vinyl Visit our showroom for samples and a free estimate!

Locally Owned for Over 45 Years

256-234-6071

1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City

Handrails • Guardrails Welded Fence • Custom Art Stairs • Gates Stainless Steel Cable Railing I-Beams • Steel Posts • Stairs On-Site Welding/Cutting

Massage

Does a Body Good

Tuesday-Saturday Please call for an appointment.

Noel Boone 256.749.0318 239 Church St. Alexander City

90 LAKE

334-332-3435 Since 2008

MAY 2016

Lake Martin Business and Service Directory

dB

residential. commercial. interior. exterior.

Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner • Mowing • Edging • Weed Eating • Shrubs • Pressure Washing • Blowing

334-651-0033AL/706-225-8070 GA

columbus-auburn.certapro.com 1550OpelikaRoadSuite6Box294,Auburn,AL36830

256.267.0518

Professional!

Trey Callegan Area Manager Call TODAY for quick Pre-approval!

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248 Inverness Ctr Dr, Birmingham AL

205-995-7283

Call TODAY for quick Pre-approval NMLS #47862 Corporate NMLS #452955

Performance!

Call me for your FREE home sellers kit.

Paige Patterson

205-616-8046

LAKE

www.paigepatterson.com

Relax. Enjoy. Lake Martin.

Call to order your subscription 256-234-4281

MAGAZINE

MAY 2016

LAKE 91

Our Advertisers n To Join, Call 256.234.4281 A&M Plumbing....................................................... 85 Advanced Cardiovascular.................................... 79 Advanced Heating & Air...................................... 16 Alex City Guide Service...................................... 16 Alex City Marine................................................... 74 Alex City Taxi & Shuttle...................................... 91 Amanda Scroggins, RE/MAX Around the Lake.....20, 48-49 Amy Clark/ Alex City Sales & Rentals........................92 Atkinson Home..................................................... 91 Blue Creek Iron Works....................................... 90 Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation....................... 16 Buck's Dairy Quick............................................... 39 C&T Electric.......................................................... 81 CertaPro Painters................................................. 91 Chuck's Marina...................................................... 72 Cloud Nine............................................................... 6 Coach Kraft Upholstery...................................... 90 Com-Link, Inc........................................................... 6 Crew Lending......................................................... 91 Custom Docks....................................................... 34 Darwin Dobbs Company...................................... 8 Damon Story, Cedar Point................................... 3 DAVCO Development......................................... 91 DB Lawn Care....................................................... 91 Designs by Trish....................................................... 5 Docks Unlimited..................................................... 5 First Baptist Church Alexander City.................. 8 First Realty............................................................... 6 George Hardy D.M.D........................................... 16

Henderson and Coker......................................... 22 Hilltop Landscaping............................................... 42 Hinson Galleries.................................................... 22 Holley’s Home Furnishings................................. 96 Holman Floor......................................................... 90 Jackson Thornton.................................................. 42 James & Co............................................................. 81 Kona Ice.................................................................. 70 Kowaliga Whole Health....................................... 90 Lake Martin Building Supply............................... 79 Lake Martin Community Hospital..................... 17 Lake Martin Dock................................................. 15 Lake Martin Mini Mall.......................................... 40 Lake Martin Realty................................................ 71 Lake Martin Resource Association................... 46 Lakeside Concierge.............................................. 91 Lakeside Marina..................................................... 66 Mark King's Furniture.......................................... 43 Mitchell's Upholstery........................................... 79 Movie Time............................................................. 39 Music Depot........................................................... 91 National Village...................................................... 21 Noel Boone............................................................ 90 Paddle for a Purpose............................................ 74 Paige Patterson, Lake Martin Voice Realty......91 Painting By Allen.................................................... 90 Playhouse Cinemas............................................... 39 Prime Management............................................... 16 PrimeSouth Bank................................................... 79

Rambo Marine....................................................... 65 Renaissance Electronics....................................... 79 Russell Lands................................................... 41, 93 Russell Marine........................................................ 47 Russell Medical Center.......................................... 2 Satterfield................................................................ 39 Security Pest Control............................................ 8 Seibel's..................................................................... 61 Shorelock................................................................ 91 Singleton Marine.................................................... 23 SportzBlitz.............................................................. 86 Standard Glass Co................................................. 72 State Farm Insurance/ Harold Cochran..........90 State Farm Insurance/ Karen Channell..........91 Tallassee Community Hospital........................... 92 Temple Medical Center....................................... 89 The Coffee Corner.............................................. 39 TNT Stone............................................................. 73 TowBoatU.S.............................................................. 5 Vision Landscapes, Inc.......................................... 70 Walmart.................................................................. 90 Ware Jewelers....................................................... 95 Wedowee Marine................................................. 75 Wind Creek Casino............................................. 13 Who's Diner.......................................................... 39 Williams Plumbing Heating & Air........................ 8 WSC Distinctive Builders, LLC......................... 60

The Swing Bed Program AT COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

805 Friendship Road Tallassee, AL 36078 (334) 283-6541 www.chal.org

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• Rehabilitation following acute care inpatient hospital stay

• Low patient to nurse ratio • 24-hour physician in-house • Dietary, nutritional, and social services • Team approach to recovery & discharge • Coordinated & planned activities program • Nursing care provided by experienced RNs and LPNs • Physical, occupational, respiratory, and speech therapy

For more information call: (334) 283-3857 or E-mail: swingbed@chal.org

Community Skilled Care and Rehab A division of

Community Hospital 92 LAKE

MAY 2016

MAY 2016

LAKE 93

Parting Shot Photo by Kenneth Boone

"There is no glory in star or blossom till looked upon by a loving eye; There is no fragrance in April breezes till breathed with joy as they wander by." ~ William C. Bryant 94 LAKE

MAY 2016

TAG HEUER CARRERA CALIBRE HEUER 01

Four world championships and two league MVP awards. Forty-six game winning drives. The longest winning streak in NFL history. Tom Brady is a champion, and champions never crack under pressure.

111 South College Street • Auburn, AL • 334.821.7375 The Shoppes at EastChase • Montgomery, AL • 334.386.9273 Eastern Shore Centre • Spanish Fort, AL • 251.338.9273 www.warejewelers.com

MAY 2016

LAKE 95

UNBEATABLE SELECTION, UNBELIEVABLE PRICES. WHETHER YOU LIKE...

ALABAMA OR AUBURN TIN LAKE MAR RDAN O J E K A L R O KEITH OR BECKY

in Alex City Our design staff s you covered & Montgomery ha

Let our design department help make your home or office all it can be. Our in house designers can help you with everything from a single piece to an entire house or office remodel.

We specialize in casual and lake design as well as corporate design. Call or stop by today to speak with Keith or Becky!

256.234.4141 Alexander City 96 LAKE

334.279.3101 Montgomery MAY 2016