Lake Martin Living magazine May 2019

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

Fresh offerings at downtown Farmers Market Festival showcases magic of marble Summer reading kicks off with a party May 2019

www.lakemartinmagazine.com

2019

FEST

Friday and Saturday May 24th and 25th from 6 – 9:30 pm Friday

The Bank Walkers @ 6 Andrew Weaver @ 8

Saturday

The Tosha Hill Band @ 6 The Locust Fork Band @ 8

Memorial Day Weekend at Russell Crossroads

Find Russell Lands on

2 Lake Martin Living#RLOLM #RXRFest #MemorialDay

256-596-3081

Lake Martin Living 3

From the Editor’s Desk For 11 years, our neighboring town has offered an impressive and extensive event showcasing the talents of not only local artists but also those from across the country – and the ocean.

The Sylacauga Marble Festival is a 10day event focused around the magic of marble. I felt like it was a hidden gem we needed to share with Lake Martin Living readers.

Sculptors set up work stations in Blue Bell Park in downtown Sylacauga and chiseled away at marble from sunrise to sunset each day, sculpting on site. Visitors came through to observe and talk with the artists. They also purchased marble pieces, toured the quarry and walked through the B.B. Comer Library, which houses many marble statues.

I spoke with some local artists, as well as with visiting Italian master sculptor Marcello Giorgio. Watching them work was impressive, but hearing about their love for marble, even more so. Read more about it on page 28, and I encourage you to check it out for yourselves when the event returns next spring.

This month kicks off summer with a load of fun for the whole family.

Jazz Fest will return for the 29th year, and this free two-night concert will feature some exciting performers. Read about each visiting band on page 18. It should get you pumped up for this event coming up in early June.

Before that, gear up for the Alexander City Farmers Market as it launches its seasonal operation on the first Saturday in June. Some of the well-loved vendors will return with their produce, meat cuts and handmade wares, and some new faces will enter the scene. There will be live entertainment, kids activities and other fun associated with the Saturday morning destination.

Check out what to expect this year on page 20.

With school coming to a close, kids are looking for summer recreation.

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library hosts its summer kickoff party June 3 to begin its summer reading program, a way to keep kids’ minds sharp by focusing on reaching reading goals that are rewarded at the finale and give them opportunities to explore their interests this summer. The rest of the season will be filled with weekly activities, including science shows, magicians, petting zoos and much more. For more details on the summer reading program, turn to page 36. All ages and all children are welcome to attend.

Lacey Howell suggests taking a walk outside to not only rack up your step count but also to enjoy the area’s scenic beauty. Turn to page 54 for her suggested routes.

While you’re out there, be sure to look up. Shane Harris warns that dying or dead trees could be dangerous. On page 14, he explains the warning signs and urges folks to take down these trees before they fall on their own.

It feels like the summer schedule is already filling up with even more to do than previous years. Check out the Calendar of Events on page 44 for ideas on where to start enjoying all that summertime has to offer.

I’m sure I’ll be all over town, as well. I’m lucky that part of my job is to spend time at awesome events. If you see me with my camera, I’m probably out searching to capture your smiling faces having a great time. Be sure to stop me and say hello. Your picture could wind up in the magazine!

Amy Passaretti, Editor 4 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Editor Amy Passaretti Contributors Kenneth Boone Dave Jennings Shane Harris Cliff Williams Jimmy Wigfield Lacey Howell Gabrielle Jansen Shannon McDuffie Justin Clayton Donald Campbell Susan Foy Teresa Grier Randy Wilson Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Shelley McNeal Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Katie Wesson Marilyn Hawkins Julie Harbin Jolie Waters Shannon Filyaw Digital Services Kat Raiford Elle Fuller Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com Lake Martin Living is published monthly

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

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

W H E R E WAT E R CO N N ECT S U S

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A vision for developing and preserving our shorelines. For environmental and land stewardship. For creating opportunity and prosperity.

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Lake Martin Living 5

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6 Lake Martin Living

Ora Finley with Finley Farm in Camp Hill will once again sell his corn and seasonal produce at Alexander City Farmers Market at Broad Street Plaza. There are other returning farmers, along with some new faces, and there also will be meats, handmade wares and activities on site throughout the summer.

Photo by Cliff Williams

IN EVERY ISSUE

FEATURES

9. AROUND THE AREA

18. MUSICIANS ENERGIZE CROWDS AT JAZZ FEST 29th year for this free two-day concert

10. BUSINESS MATTERS 14. GARDEN TALK 23. MONEY MATTERS 24. MEDICAL NEWS 34. FROM THE TEE 38. OH SNAP! 44. LAKE REGION EVENTS

20. FRESH OFFERINGS AT DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET Vendors return to Broad Street Plaza for the season 28. FESTIVAL SHOWCASES THE MAGIC OF MARBLE 11th Annual Sylacauga Marble Festival 36. REACH FOR THE STARS Summer reading program kicks off with a party

54. CULTURE SHOCK

28 The Imerys-Gantt’s Quarry Observation Point Site is open to the public, and historical markers tell the history of the marble.

Photo by Shannon McDuffie

Lake Martin Living 7

Re/Max Around the Lake

LACEY HOWELL

MAY 2019

Lake Martin 256 | 307 | 2443

AROUND THE AREA

Mayor Jim Nabors leaves a legacy in the county Alexander City Mayor Jim Nabors died earlier this month at Brookwood Medical Center in Birmingham after emergency surgery.

In 2016, Nabors was elected mayor with 73 percent of the vote, and he had previously served as Russell Corporation’s chief financial officer.

Councilman Tommy Spraggins will ascend to the position of mayor for the remainder of Nabors’ term, and he said he agreed with Nabors’ big vision for the city and will go down the path he had set.

Alexander City Police Chief Jay Turner said most citizens probably didn’t realize changes Nabors made behind the scenes that improved services they receive.

Councilmember Scott Hardy said

In Memory James Douglas “Jim” Nabors will be remembered fondly in Alexander City.

Nabors’ character and good reputation helped quickly repair the city’s image. He thinks the new municipal complex should be named in honor of Nabors.

Originally from Sylacauga, Nabors graduated the University of Alabama in 1963. After graduating, Nabors built a career on hard work, leadership and serving others.

Nabors served in notable positions, including chairman of the board of directors for Russell Medical, board of visitors at the University of Alabama, superintendent of Alexander City schools, board of directors member at Aliant Bank and board of directors member at Judson College. ~ Staff Report

Dr. Beverly Price named new deputy superintendant Newly Analyze Data Price will work named deputy with classroom superintendent instruction, grants Dr. Beverly Price and curriculum. brings 17 years of experience in Alexander City Schools to a position created by superintendent Dr. Keith Lankford to organize the system. She was chosen from a field of 30 candidates.

Price began her career in 2002 as the assistant principal at Radney Elementary School, served as prinicpal of Radney, the district school improvement coach, principal of Alexander City Middle School and most recently was the director of secondary schools.

Price’s duties will include coordinating curriculum and instruction; generating

grants and ensuring schools are in compliance with federal and state programs. She will work with business and community partners to ensure graduates are satisfying needs of the community. Price said her main goal is to

create successful graduates by identifying students’ needs and unique talents to guide them into appropriate career paths.

The hope is that graduates will return to Alexander City to help it grow. ~ Gabrielle Jansen

Local history comes to life Russell Medical Foundation and Alexander City Theatre II co-hosted a Living History Cemetery Tour last month, which featured an arts and crafts show at The Mill Two Eighty in addition to actors who presented monologues of Create Characters 10 local historical figures in the Steve Thomas Alexander City told the tale of Doc Barnes.

Cemetery.

Figures featured in the tour were James Young, Eldridge M. “Doc” Barnes, Sarah Carlisle Towery, a child who witnessed the 1902 fire, Billy Hardy, Phala Graves, Louise Day, Roberta McDonald Russell, Sara Robinson and Ralph Frohsin Sr. Russell Medical Foundation Auxiliary Coordinator Emily Williams estimated 200 people attended the tours. ~ Gabrielle Jansen Lake Martin Living 9

New Vision Downtown Small changes could yield big results STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS & RENDERING BY RANDY WILSON

10 Lake Martin Living

BUSINESS MATTERS

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lexander City is “on the road to some really good things,” according to Main Street Alexander City Executive Director Stacey Jeffcoat.

After an immersive three-day visit from nonprofit Main Street Alabama, state coordinator for the national Main Street program, a resource team of five experts in the fields of organization, promotions, economic vitality and design offered some insight and proposed suggestions to make what they consider a beautiful downtown, even better.

“The members of the resource refresh team made multiple comments throughout their visit about our downtown being one of the prettiest in the state,” said Jeffcoat. “That’s really something to be proud of. We’re blessed, and we’ve really got to move forward and take advantage of all we have.”

The team interviewed community leaders; organized a vision mapping session for public input; created an online survey for residents to offer feedback; and spent time chatting with business owners and town locals to get a feel for what may be missing. The compilation of these findings and efforts provided

a subjective outsider opinion on how to elevate downtown to the next level.

“They saw it through different eyes and thought of things I never would have thought of,” said Jeffcoat.

While some proposed changes would be part of a long-term strategic plan, many minor elements could spruce up the area and bring more life to the historic district.

“I absolutely think there are some feasible changes we can implement immediately; little touches that make people want to come and spend more time downtown,” said Jeffcoat.

Improving some landscaping, adding flowers on the sidewalks, improving already available benches and seating and making Strand Park more visitor-friendly are easy solutions that could have a positive impact.

Jeffcoat said adding some movable seating to Strand Park, along with bringing in some lawn games – such as giant Jenga and corn hole – could increase the foot traffic in that area.

“I think it’d be a cool way to draw in students,” said Jeffcoat. “I think if they had something fun to do, they would hang out.”

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During interviews with the community, Main Street Alabama heard a lot of desire for more familyfriendly activities, and some of the younger generation said they didn’t feel they were welcome in downtown with little for them to do. Some proposed changes might broaden the demographics of visitors to downtown by expanding offerings.

Trisha Black, field specialist with Main Street Alabama, suggested creating a community toy chest so all city organizations could have access to shared lawn games for events. She also recommended focusing on quality of events over quantity by improving upon what’s already been established.

“We need to re-introduce people to the district and bring in visitors. The town can expand on existing events to bring foot traffic to businesses,” said Black.

Supporting these existing businesses that are already vested in the community is essential for economic vitality, as well, said Jay Schlinsog.

“Recruiting is part of it, but the number one priority is working with those who have already staked claim here and helping them to grow,” he said.

Architect Randy Wilson with Community Design Solutions recommended adding some pops of color in certain areas, including painting benches or adding cushions; creating artwork murals on exterior building walls; and designing crosswalk designations for safety and aesthetics.

“These are just some touches we could make to increase the liveliness and vibrancy of the streetscape to appear more inviting,” said Jeffcoat.

Wilson said focusing on areas such as the rears of buildings and alleyways could also have an impact on aesthetics, especially the way Alexander City’s downtown is arranged. The backs of buildings are exposed in several areas.

Outsider's Perspective

Previous page: Visitors assessing downtown said it was one of the most beautiful in the state; Above: Randy Wilson proposes pops of color to liven up bleak concrete walls.

12 Lake Martin Living

Viewing these areas as destinations of their own could provide opportunities for Instagram moments, said Wilson, along with branding alleyways as their own locations to increase possible hangouts. Adding kiosks and signage would help direct visitors to what’s available on certain streets, he said.

“Everything you’ve done here reeks of quality. It’s just about taking good and making it great,” said Wilson.

Main Street Alexander City’s existing grant programs could be adapted to specific storefront needs: signage, alleyways and exposed building backs. These funds could help create a stronger impression, he added.

“Other perceptions from the team turned out to be surprising, such as parking. Everybody seems to think there is a parking problem, but they pointed out that adding signage to indicate parking areas may help – it could be a visual thing,” said Jeffcoat.

Main Street Alexander City already has designed and bought new ‘Welcome to Alexander City’ signs for U.S. Highway 280 and hopes to create matching way-finding signage to be placed in all corridors that lead to town to direct visitors.

“This will be a really big deal. The signs are ordered, and we hope they will be installed soon,” said Jeffcoat. “We need to do some landscaping with them, but we’re excited.”

All of these possible improvements to be implemented

by Main Street Alexander City will come from the nonprofit organization’s funds.

“These are all generous donations from people that believe in our mission and support the downtown area. People need to understand that this would not be coming from taxpayer money,” said Jeffcoat.

Aside from the changes, events, designs and organizational implementation for Main Street Alexander City, branding needs to be a significant priority for not only the group but also the town as a whole, said Tripp Muldrow.

“Involve the community in creating its own identity,” said Muldrow. “We need consistency to define Alexander City, not just Main Street.”

By collaborating with the City of Alexander City, Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and the tourism committees, a unique brand could curate the visitor experience and carry through all events, he added.

“In initial conversations, everyone is on board with the branding. When Main Street Alabama comes back to provide a more detailed strategic plan, Tripp and Randy also will help coordinate a brand,” said Jeffcoat. “We’re super excited about this aspect.”

Mary Helmer, Main Street Alabama state coordinator, and Black will return in a few weeks with an extensive plan that will cover more details than the original public presentation the organization gave on the last day of its visit last month. They also will help develop a road map for a long-term strategy.

“With new signs, getting some branding done, adding little touches for atmosphere – we hope we’ll make it a fun place to be. It may make people want to stroll downtown in the evenings, take the dog and kids for a picnic in the park and just enjoy what our town has to offer,” said Jeffcoat.

For more information about Main Street Alexander City and its mission, visit mainstreetalexandercity.org.

Lake Martin Living 13

Look up often for Warning signs may indicate dying or decaying trees

14 Lake Martin Living

safety

O

f all the landscape plants growing around a home, mature trees indeed add value and a special presence to the property. Many species of trees – such as oak, poplar, dogwood, maple, hickory and pine – can live to the ripe old age of 35 to 75-plus years. Some specimens could be described as seen only once in a generation – meaning someone will not live to see another one grow that big and majestic in his or her lifetime.

It’s a sad day to notice beloved trees beginning to decline, die or be taken down and removed.

Have you looked up lately? Early spring Shane Harris is the ideal time to evaluate yard trees around homes. Many times after a long winter, people fail to look up and notice that something is wrong with their trees. If and when people do, they are surprised to find that a tree on their property is not doing well or has died.

By mid-spring, every deciduous tree that is healthy will show at least some sign that it is alive by blooming or putting out new leaves. Trees with no leaves when they should have some are likely declining, dying or dead. Any tree that has yet to become green should raise a red flag and be labeled as a hazard.

A hazardous tree is defined as any tree that might fall and cause property damage and/or bodily harm and should be removed immediately. This includes all trees that have dead

Garden Talk

Lake Martin Living 15

branches, dieback in the top of the tree, extensive damaged or diseased areas hollowed out or tree that are completely lacking foliage. Extensive decay, bark falling off or cankers are major warning signs.

This is usually the time when I get phone calls of concern. Many homeowners ask me what can be done to save their trees. I often respond by doing a site visit and evaluation of the situation.

Unfortunately, I am most often the bearer of bad news.

The bottom line is once trees begin to shows signs of stress and decline, there is nothing a homeowner or arborist can do to stop or reverse it. There are no magic potions, no products, nor any methods that can fix the problem. The only strategy to keeping trees from having most health problems is prevention.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance to look up. The early signs of decline in trees are fewer leaves on branches and twigs in the very tops of trees’ canopies. This typically indicates there are root problems. Trees that have root damage and stress cannot provide nourishment to the farthest point in the trees – at the tiptop – so, portions in the canopies die first and slowly expand; and then, move down the trees.

Examine how much foliage is present and how much is not. Look for dead limbs. Leaves are the food-making Look up for Safety

Previous Page: The first obvious sign of a tree's decline can be seen in the top branches; Above: Wounds or cuts that do not close present opportunities for decay.

16 Lake Martin Living

portions of the tree. If the tree does not have enough leaves and cannot make food to sustain it, it will basically starve to a slow death.

There are numerous reasons that cause trees to decline and then die, but damage to the roots is the primary cause.

Any time the most sensitive area of the tree – the roots – is directly or indirectly harmed, the tree will suffer longterm consequences.

Human activity – such as building construction near trees’ roots, digging within the root zones and trenching and cutting roots around the trees – are major factors.

The traffic of heavy equipment during house construction causes soil compaction and limits the trees’ abilities to take up oxygen, nutrients and water. Digging, for whatever purpose, ultimately tends to sever trees’ roots and shorten their longevity. Grading, moving and piling up of soil around the trees’ trunks will lead to the suffocation of roots. Remember any kind of this activity is a no-no and usually unforgivable. There will be long-lasting effects, which will result in the tree eventually declining and dying within a few years, depending on the extent of the damage.

If you love your trees, prevent all human activity from interfering with the root systems of them. You must protect them if you wish to save and keep them.

Assessing trees for the potential to decline in health and possibly fall is very difficult, even for the trained eye, but if you inspect trees often – and it is important that you do – here are a few things to look for that may indicate a problem or tree at risk:

root damage are devastating to tree health and are usually n Look for fewer leaves and dead branches within the the final chinks in the tree’s armor that results in death. canopies.

Once trees begin showing n Watch for cracks and splits on symptoms as mentioned above, the trunks and major limbs. they may live several more years or n Trees with co-dominant or two could come tumbling down at any main trunks may be structurally moment. Strong storms always have unstable. the potential to knock down the n Trees with good taper are largest and healthiest trees, but those stronger than those that have long, weak or damaged ones are even lanky trunks. more likely to come crashing down. n Trees that have been topped Either way, the dying tree will have new growth that is weakly not recover and will need to be attached. removed at some point. Although n Visible defects – such as cankers the reason why a tree is unhealthy and wounds – along the trunks and is important, your main concern branches are sometimes weak points should be assessing and removing and could indicate other problems. that tree. Leaving it could be very n Look for any presence of risky. Consult with an educated and insects or insect damage, cracked or professional arborist for advice. loosened bark, conks (mushrooms) And keep looking up: Your tree and decay or rot in the trees. might be telling you something. n Severed roots can drastically For additional help with home and compromise a tree’s stability, causing garden information, contact a local it to potentially fall. county Extension Office or visit Trees that decline and die often www.aces.edu. do so for a number of reasons. There is usually an accumulation of stress ~ Shane Harris is the Tallapoosa over many years, including drought, Warning Signs County Extension coordinator for the storms, old age, root damage, Loose bark on a tree trunk Alabama Cooperative Extension. insects, etc. Major droughts and past is often due to rot and decay.

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Lake Martin Living 17

Get hyped for this year’s Jazz Fest musicians

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STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY JUSTIN CLAYTON, DAVE MANN, JAYSEN MICHAEL AND KENNETH BOONE

nce again, electrifying vocals, brilliant tunes from brass instruments and energetic musicians will thrill Alexander City residents and visitors with two nights of dynamic music at the Alexander City Jazz Fest June 14 and 15.

Three bands will take the stage in Strand Park in downtown Alexander City on Friday evening when thousands of concertgoers find their spots on the grass to socialize with friends and take in the beats. The free concert begins at 6 p.m. with local favorite, The Bank Walkers. At 7:30 p.m., 25-year old Sam Burchfield and his band, The Scoundrels, will take the stage. The headliner will be

Willie Sugarcapps, a five-piece band from Alabama.

Sponsors and businesses have the option to decorate tables that are judged on design. This has been a long-standing tradition at the Strand Park night of Jazz Fest.

The next day transports the fun to the Lake Martin Amphitheater, with its scenic views. Nikki and The Phantom Callers kick off the show at 6 p.m. with Southern Gothic rock ‘n’ roll. The lead vocalist is a Dadeville native.

Empire Strikes Brass will have the audience on their feet with their vivacious and funky beats. At 9 p.m., the headliner will close out the show. Honey Island

Swamp Band has been tagged as a Bayou Americana-style band.

The planning and music selection typically takes months and is a collaborative effort. The committee is constantly trying to bring in well-known names, along with introducing the community to lesser-known stars.

An art contest is held each year to determine the promotional design, which changes annually. Also, student artwork is submitted, which is then on display Friday night during Jazz Fest. T-shirts with the chosen design will be on sale both nights and are available online.

For more information about Alexander City Jazz Fest, visit alexcityjazzfest.com.

The Lineup June 14: Strand Park, Alexander City

The Bank Walkers 6 p.m.

This five-man band is made up of Lake Martin area residents and is well known to locals. They’ve been together for eight years and perform cover songs of outlaw country, Southern rock and classic rock. A variety of ages and demographics can appreciate the style and tunes from The Bank Walkers. Member of the band include Steve Forehand, Roger Holliday, David Sturdivant, Brian Bice and Mark Tucker.

18 Lake Martin Living

Sam Burchfield and The Soundrels 7:30 p.m.

At just 25 years old, Sam Burchfield traverses genres to generate music from folk to funk to Southern soul with his band of Scoundrels. The group is from Atlanta, Georgia, and they have toured the Southeast opening for names that include St. Paul & The Broken Bones and Ben Rector. The lyrical depth of the band’s music is paired with soulful vocal delivery and catchy melodies. The audience will be sure to enjoy this electrifying performance.

Willie Sugarcapps 9 p.m.

This team of musicians originated during a series of casual Southern Alabama songwriter jam sessions. Willie Sugarcapps’ collaboration of songwriting expertise inspired its 2013 album, which won Americana Album of the Year by Independent Music Association and Southland Music Line’s Artists of the Year in 2014. This Americana band features striking harmonies and has toured throughout the U.S. with Emmylou Harris, Jimmy Buffet, Neil Young, Steve Winwood and others.

Sugarcane Jane, featuring married performing duo Anthony Crawford and Savana Lee, combine with Will Kimbrough, Grayson Capps and Corky Hughes to round out the full ensemble of Willie Sugarcapps.

June 15: The AMP, Eclectic

Nikki & the Phantom Callers 6 p.m.

Dadeville native Nikki Speake returns home to perform at Lake Martin Amphitheater. She’s been writing songs since she was 16 and also is a member of Midnight Larks and Shantih Shantih. The group out of Atlanta is a self-proclaimed Southern Gothic rock ‘n’ roll outfit mixed with a honky-tonk style. “Fire and brimstone with subtle rebellion,” is the captive description straight off its website.

The alternative country, indie-rock Phantom Callers features Aaron Mason on lead guitar, Russell Owens on drums and Anna Kramer on bass and back-up vocals.

Their six-track album was done in 24 hours – one day to record and one night to mix it.

Empire Strikes Brass 7:30 p.m.

This brass-funk band from Asheville, North Carolina, was founded in 2012 and features Grammy-award winner Debrissa McKinney on vocals. Rooted in high-energy New Orleans brass band tradition of deep-moving grooves, Empire Strikes Brass performs complex musical arrangements with thoughtful lyrical structure. The musicians fuse sounds from various genres with the common thread of brass instrumentals. The band has been a consistent fixture at festivals throughout the East Coast and is known to parade off stage into the audience leading the crowd into a procession.

Lenny Pettinelli plays keyboard; Paul Juhl plays saxophone and Kyle Snuffer and Alex Bradley make up the horn section. Their debut album, Theme for a Celebration, was released in 2017.

Honey Island Swamp Band 9 p.m.

To close out the weekend, the Bayou Americana-themed Honey Island Swamp Band will provide powerful lyrics and diverse tunes. The group formed in San Francisco, after Hurricane Katrina displaced its founding members from New Orleans. These emotional stories are channeled through the band’s soulful style. They have been likened to blues-rootsrock artists such as The Allman Brothers, Little Feat and The Band. Producer/musician Luther Dickinson captures their rhythm. Honey Island Swamp Band has toured internationally, and its 10th anniversary album, Demolition Day, was released with 11 old school, authentic sounding tunes. The band is made up of Aarson Wilkinson on mandolin, guitar, harmonica and vocals; Chris Mulé on guitar and vocals; Sam Price on bass and vocals; Garland Paul on drums and vocals and Trevor Brooks on keyboard.

Lake Martin Living 19

Fresh offerings at farmers market

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STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS

reshly harvested produce, handmade wares and plenty of entertainment will once again return to Broad Street Plaza on the first Saturday in June for the seasonal Alexander City Farmers Market.

Downtown will be buzzing with more than 20 vendors from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through September.

While most of the traditional, loyal farmers who have been with the market for years will be back; there also will be some new offerings, including Miss Mann’s chocolate-dipped marshmallow sticks, said Farmers Market Manager Carly Herrmann.

As her second year in the position begins, Herrmann said she’s missed working with the vendors and is excited for a new season to begin.

“Farmers are so important to our community, and they’re not recognized enough. Coming to the farmers market, people can find fresh produce and ideas on how to eat healthier. They also are supporting the people who literally put their hands in the dirt to make food available to us,” she said.

Alexander City’s Farmers Market is one of the few around the state that is free for farmers to attend and also allows them to walk away with 100 percent of their profits.

Vendors that will be on site will offer seasonal produce; the much-anticipated peaches; pies and herbs; crafted items and more.

Graphite Farms will be available with its fresh-cut meat, 20 Lake Martin Living

and this year will be accepting credit cards. Most other farmers only accept cash – so be sure to stop at the ATM before hitting the plaza.

Aside from the items for sale, Herrmann said, there will be music and entertainment that will change each weekend. The plan is to incorporate breakfast options on site, have activities for children and also provide an outlet for local talent and musicians.

“We’re trying to involve downtown businesses and direct market customers to other shops by promoting their deals, sales and other offerings,” said Herrmann. “We want to promote the market around us. The idea is to flood downtown with people to shop, eat and hang out.”

The Alexander City Farmers Market relies on sponsors to provide the free space for the farmers and amenities for shoppers. Volunteers help set up and break down tents and Healthy Options Clockwise from Top: tables each weekend, Hermann Peaches are one of the said, and she would love extra favored items at the helping hands. Those interested downtown market in in helping out should contact Alexander City; seasonal her at carlyherrmann01@gmail. produce fills the tables; com. customers peruse the “I think we’re going to products; local honey is have a really great year,” said for sale; farmers' families help during the events.

Herrmann.

Lake Martin Living 21

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MONEY MATTERS

igital banking is all the rage these every 90 days. days. A fingerprint logs you into Do use acronyms for phrases you’ll your bank account, and one tap on remember. Let’s go back to our grade school your phone or computer handles any days and recall the tricks our teachers taught transaction. But as advances in technology us to remember information. For instance, you continue to help more people manage their may remember thinking ‘ROY G. BIV’ in your finances online, we must be more vigilant than head when reciting the colors of the rainbow. ever to make sure our financial information This is a great principle to follow when doesn’t fall into the wrong hands. creating passwords, too. Using the first letter Most financial institutions have tools set up of each word in a phrase you can remember is to keep customers protected, such as the use of difficult for cybercriminals to decipher. a secure access code. Customers who are using Do include numbers and special an unregistered browser, for instance, are characters. The more unpredictable your required to receive and confirm secure codes password is, the more protected you are. It’s to access their bank accounts online. Still, always smart to use both lower and uppercase Teresa Grier there are steps people can take to add an extra letters, along with special numbers and layer of protection to their bank accounts, characters. But avoid obvious passwords, such starting with the creation and management of passwords. as ‘12345678.’

With this in mind, here are some basic dos and don’ts Do create long passwords. Many websites require for creating strong and secure passwords. you to create passwords with a minimum of six to Don’t make your password personal. You may eight characters. Always try exceeding these minimum instinctively lean toward something you can easily requirements. A password with 20 unique characters is remember – like your pet’s name. But words and names harder to decode than one with eight. that are personal to you are likely to be first on a hacker’s Security experts often recommend using a passphrase list because it’s easier than ever for hackers to find your rather than a password. A passphrase is a string of words personal interests and information. instead of just one word, typically ranging anywhere Don’t use common words from the dictionary. from four to 20 words. Strong passphrases include Hackers use computer programs to guess millions of characters and spaces, too. passwords in seconds. With that in mind, using common As a final thought, avoid using public computers for words – such as ‘love’ – puts your personal information online banking, in general. Expert hackers can find ways at risk. Instead, select a complicated password that to record activity in a public setting, even if you log out has multiple words and symbols. Or if you want to get completely. And “shoulder surfers” can easily peek at creative, try an online password generator, which is your screen and see your information. Simply put, just be designed to create complex passwords that are tough to smart and stay safe. crack.

Don’t reuse passwords. Many programs and apps ~ Teresa Grier is a market manager for Valley Bank in require you to reset your password after a period of time, Alexander City. Contact Teresa by calling 256-329-7446 but don’t be tempted to reuse an old one. It’s always best or stop by the Alexander City branch located at 4634 U.S. to create new passwords from scratch and reset them Highway 280.

Lake Martin Living 23

Russell Medical receives prestigious honor

R

ussell Medical Wound Care and Hyperbaric wounds and change lives.”

Medicine recently was recognized with a In 2016, the team was awarded the Center of national award for excellence.

Distinction by Healogics; and then, received Dr. Regina Phillips and her team the Center of Excellence in 2017. were honored to receive the 2018 Robert “Knowing that we are fulfilling our A. Warriner III, M.D., Center of Excellence mission of being committed to advancing award. The center has achieved patient wound healing by creating and sharing our satisfaction rates higher than 92 percent wound care expertise: wherever we can, for and a healing rate greater than 91 percent in every patient who would benefit, by the best less than 30 median days to heal, for three means available is what motivates me to consecutive years. continue to provide an exceptional patient The center was awarded this prestigious experience,” said Dr. Phillips. honor by Healogics, the nation’s largest Program Director Karen Treadwell said provider of advanced wound care services. she is grateful for the support of the medical The award is named in honor of Dr. Robert community. With more than 75 different A. Warriner III, a pioneer in wound care referral providers, the Russell Medical and the former chief medical officer for Wound Care Healogics. and Hyperbaric Awarded Excellence Susan Foy Russell Medical Wound Care and Medicine clinic Wound care staff Hyperbaric Medicine has provided is known as the members include advanced wound care to patients in the facility to send Tervorius Russell, Jolye surrounding six counties since 2011. By following the patients to with non-healing Durrett, Olivia Clayton, Dr. Regina Phillips, nine essential steps of wound healing, the team prides wounds.

Stacey Hanners, itself on providing quality patient care in a loving and Melissa Abram, Benita nurturing environment. The team’s vision is that they ~ Susan Foy is the Stowes and Karen are the “wound healing expert; driving wound science, marketing director for Russell Treadwell. healing and prevention forward to help heal more Medical.

24 Lake Martin Living

Medical News

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Lake Martin Living 27

Festival showcases the magic of marble

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY SHANNON MCDUFFIE

M

arble dust saturated the air and engulfed artists’ workspaces during the 11th Annual Sylacauga Marble Festival as 34 sculptors worked morning to night during the 12-day event held at the beginning of April.

Artists from across the country and even a master sculptor from Italy set up shop in Blue Bell Park on Norton Avenue in downtown Sylacauga, a town revered internationally for this striking stone, alongside a handful of local names.

Craigger Browne is one of the most well known sculptors in the area and has many completed art pieces on display throughout the town. He has studied with master artists and created hundreds of marble sculptures over his 30-year career.

Throughout Sylacauga, Browne’s works can be seen at the B.B.

Comer Library and Sylacauga Municipal Complex.

When sculptors arrive on the first day, each chooses a free piece of marble that is dropped off to their chosen carving spots for the week.

“This year, quarry tours sold out the week before the festival started, and we sold more sculptures than we ever have in the past,” said Ted Spears, marble festival chairman.

The event is open to the public who may come by to admire the artists working and ask questions about their talents and creations. Church groups, students and buses with sometimes 50 to 60 people rolled through during the week.

Each year, a visiting master sculptor from Pietrasanta, Italy, attends the marble festival as an ambassador to represent the cultural exchange between two marble-based towns.

Marcello Giorgi returned as the ambassador this year for his second time in a row, and he was tasked with completing a work of art before the festival’s end.

“It’s amazing and exciting to be here. I like the environment of the festival, the people, the atmosphere, the marble,” said Giorgi.

“I’ve been doing marble work my whole life, and I do it because I like to do it.”

The ambassador of the festival is required to do presentations at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Art and at B.B. Comer Library, as both are sponsors and organizers for the event.

This year during the festival, Giorgi sculpted a piece that was inspired by Alabama’s bicentennial. A prototype was made before he arrived and was on site for reference.

“I wanted to do something for the bicentennial, and it just

came naturally to me. It’s about Work All Day Sculptors stake out this idea of freedom, which is spots in Blue Bell Park historically important for this area and work morning to with the civil rights movement,” night on their marble said Giorgi. “It represents structures during transformation, and the butterflies the festival. symbolize metamorphosis.”

The final Freedom sculpture is on display at the B.B. Comer Library, among past master sculptors’ designs, and Giorgi labored into the last minutes of his deadline to finish it.

“He always chooses something ambitious. He can’t help himself, and he gives 150 percent of himself for his work,” said Nathalie Purchio, Giorgi’s assistant.

30 Lake Martin Living

The Sylacauga Marble Festival originated in 2011 as part of a cultural exchange program sponsored by the Alabama State Council on the Arts and Pietrasanta in Tuscany, Italy, which is home to the Carrara Mines and known as the town of marble.

“The mission is to recreate the magic of marble through its artistic, commercial and industrial applications,” said Spears.

Last year, Rudy Medlock from Kentucky, came through as a visitor since his daughter works with the Montgomery Arts Council, and he ended up staying for its entirety.

“When I got here, they invited me to join them, and so I just stayed. I borrowed some tools and bought some clothes,” said Medlock who teaches fine arts at Asbury University in Kentucky and has been carving for 25 years.

During this year’s festival, Medlock completed two sculptures, each within about four days. He said his design inspiration comes from maintaining a size that he can pick up. Also Medlock works on a resurrection series, inspired by his faith.

“This is the greatest event ever, especially that it’s free. That’s almost unheard of,” said Medlock. “I plan to come back each year until they tell me not to.”

Some artists only work in marble once a year at the Sylacauga Marble Festival, such as Rockford resident Francesco Vezzoni.

“I’ve worked at the Sylacauga quarry here since the ’90s, and I am an electrical engineer by trade,” said Vezzoni. “Once a year I come to play with marble and have been doing this since 2014.”

While Medlock’s style is more instinctive with years of honed craftsmanship and Vezzoni’s is for fun, Jimmy Ewing from Atlanta approaches his marble carving more meticulously.

As a former aeronautical engineer and a patent lawyer for more than three decades, Ewing said he always enjoyed science and math because there is little room for interpretation.

“I like to pick irregular shapes to start with; and then, I have to think about it for hours. After, I begin to draw it out with rulers and pencils. I use a hammer to listen for where the faults are,” said Ewing. “This method drives some other artists crazy.”

His marble sculpting became a full-time hobby in 2014, and he has attended the Magic of Marble Festival since 2015. What began as abstract work pushed Ewing toward more intricate designs. Recently, he started working on hands, which are some of the most challenging styles to represent, he said.

“I chose to create a hand sculpture during my second year of

the festival, and master sculptor Marble Production Facing page: Italian Giovanni Balderi told me I master sculptor needed to practice 1,000 times Marcello Giorgi was the to do it well,” said Ewing. ambassador for two years; Practicing in clay is one Above: The Sylacauga solution, since it can be reMarble Festival observation worked, he added. Marble point is open to the public. carving is a subtractive method, so once it’s gone, it’s gone. Many artists who work with marble got their start in woodworking, said Shirley Spears, who worked at the library for 33 years.

Ewing said respecting the stone and where it came from is an important part of the festival.

“They run a good show here and keep it at the right level.

Everyone here appreciates the life forms that were given up to create the marble. The sculptors here feel that,” said Ewing.

His artistic inclination didn’t come about until 2005 when he visited a stone yard in Germany and found a statue he wanted to buy. After haggling the price and realizing the cost it would be to ship, Ewing thought about trying to make one himself.

Back home, he signed up for some art classes and had no idea where that would lead.

“The instructor handed me a piece of stone and a hammer and chisel and sent me to the corner of the room. I just started hitting it to see what happens,” said Ewing. “Chips just started flying, and it was like 33 years of frustration began coming out.”

During the annual 12-day program, tours of the Sylacauga Marble Quarry are available; sculptures from across the country are for sale; children participate in a marble-themed poster contest, and artists are recognized with a mayor’s reception.

Aside from arranged quarry tours, the Imerys-Gantt’s Quarry Observation Point is open to the public 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. The scenic overlook contains historical markers about the history of marble from the time Dr. Edward Gantt discovered the stone while on duty for Andrew Jackson’s army in the 1800s.

There are nearly 3,000 components in the world that contain marble as extracted calcium deposits, and four out of the five industries in Sylacauga are located there due to the marble quarries, said Spears.

For more information about the Sylacauga Marble Festival, visit bbcomerlibrary.net/marblefestival.

Lake Martin Living 31

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Lake Martin Living 33

CACC golfers finish strong

T

his is the time of year when I get a little excited when talking about my golf team.

Central Alabama Community College Trojan golfers have enjoyed another really good year, and we still have to play the Shangri-La golf course for the NJCAA National Championship.

The community’s support of the Trojan golf program and the CACC athletic department plays a role. Athletic budgets cannot sustain everything for the various programs, so our athletes rely on the financial and moral support of the community to continually offer high-quality opportunities for these tremendous student-athletes. I feel so blessed to be living in Alexander City where I witness residents’ generosities.

Golfstat presently ranks the Trojan golf team fifth in the NJCAA men’s division. This year, the boys have won five tournaments, along with the region championship. The team just returned from Marion, 34 Lake Martin Living

From the Tee

Dave Jennings

Illinois, where the golfers finished second in the district championship. This is the event that qualifies NJCAA teams for the national championship. This year four CACC golfers had individual wins, and the team had a great number of top-five finishes.

In addition, it looks like the boys will once again finish their academic school years as Team Academic All-Americans, especially with Jack Poole placed on the President’s List and Caleb O’Toole, Owen Burt and Dylan Moncus on the Dean’s List.

My graduating sophomore golfers are all destined to continue their college experiences elsewhere. Caleb O’Toole and Jack Poole will both be transferring to Western Kentucky University with golf scholarships. Noah Dennis will be playing golf for University of Montevallo, and Owen Burt will continue his college golf career at Huntingdon College. Reed Love has been offered some golf scholarship opportunities, but he has chosen to

transfer to the University of AlabamaBirmingham, where he may have the chance to walk-on.

At CACC, the golf program works, and it works well. Teachers and coaches continue to educate and develop student athletes who move on to make positive impacts in the world. I am proud to be part of this process.

Our 2018-2019 CACC Trojan Golf Player of the Year is Caleb O’Toole. It’s easy to brag about this young man. This year Caleb has won three tournaments, which gives him a total of five victories over his two years. This year, he has finished in the top 10 in every tournament but one. He, along with teammate Reed Love, earned PING All-Region status.

Caleb is the last of the O’Toole clan who will play golf with me. Caleb’s brother John Michael and cousin Cody O’Toole also were outstanding golfers and students at CACC. I’m going to miss this connection, but it will be rewarding to monitor their futures. Caleb and Jack Poole have both been team leaders, and I know that Western Kentucky’s golf program will flourish with these two on the team.

Next year, I will have three returning golfers: Alexander City’s Dylan Moncus; Andrew Friend from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Jackson Schultz from McDonough, Georgia.

Successful Season

Facing page: CACC golf team won the Region-22 Championship; Right: Caleb O'Toole was awarded Player of the Year.

I also am thrilled with our group of incoming freshmen: Jared Edwards and Keith Watkins, from McDonough, Georgia; Ken Goforth and Davis Brown from Birmingham; Tanner Guthrie from Auburn and Genki Sadato from Japan. Each one of these six young men have had tremendous junior golf careers, and they are all excited to make a big impact on the legacy of CACC golf.

Our national championship will be played May 14 to 17 at Duran Golf Club in Melbourne, Florida. This is a great golf course, and the boys have played it in past tournaments.

You are invited to follow the live scoring at www.golfstat.com. Click on schedules and results and search for NJCAA Men's National Champ. DI. Scores will be updated every six holes. Caleb O’Toole, Jack Poole, Owen Burt, Reed Love and Dylan Moncus will represent the Trojans. I have a strong feeling they will be in the hunt again this year, and the team has high hopes of bringing back a seventh national championship to Alexander City.

Thank you again for your ongoing support of CACC golf and CACC athletics. You make all the difference in the world. You are special, and speaking for all of our Trojan athletes, we appreciate you very much.

Go Trojans! ~ Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach for Central Alabama Community College.

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Lake Martin Living 35

Reach for t he st ars

Summer reading program kicks off with a party STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY DONALD CAMPBELL

T

his summer, kids should reach for the stars to hit reading goals during Mamie’s Place Children’s Library’s Summer Reading Program, “Universe of Stories.” Activities throughout the five-week program are geared toward the solar system, stars and astronomy.

The Summer Reading Program kicks off June 3 at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex gymnasium with Gusty Fox’s traveling gymnastic performance and the Skin and Bones Comedy Circus. Children of all ages are invited to participate.

“It’s all about the kids setting a reading goal and being rewarded for reaching that goal,” said Melissa Moncrief, one of three librarians at Mamie’s Place. “Summer is a time when they can read about their interests and just have fun.”

Last year, about 1,800 children participated in the Libraries Rock summer program and 6,496 books were read. There is no requirement to be a resident of the area. Visiting family members and friends are welcome to enjoy any of the activities throughout the summer. The week of July 4 there will be no events.

36 Lake Martin Living

Registration is open until June Seasonal Fun Top: Pastor Wayne 7 at the library, but kids who are Cowhick reads to not registered are still able to children during the participate in events. summer program.

“Our goal is to promote area literacy, so we don’t hold anyone back from being a part of the fun,” said Moncrief.

All of the events that are hosted – about three or four days per week – will take place at Mamie’s Place, except the kickoff and finale. Russell Wright with United Martial Arts in Alexander City hosts a teen kickboxing class every Tuesday at 10 a.m. This is the only event limited to ages 13 and up; all others are suitable for all ages.

Throughout the summer, there will be movie days, magic shows, animal petting zoos and interactive story-tellers.

“We even partner with the chamber of commerce each year to host events during Sun Festival and Jazz Fest,” said Moncrief.

A library card is required to check out books, and when library items are returned, the books are logged. This accounts for eBooks, as well.

“A guardian should always be instrumental in helping kids check out their book selections,” said librarian Melissa Finley.

Throughout the season, the library hosts weekly drawings from names of children who read books that week. Winners are announced each Friday with prizes ranging from gift cards to baskets of goodies.

“We reach out to all schools, daycares, churches, boys and girls club to let them know what we have going on here. We take calendars around to everyone, and we want to spread the word about our programs,” said Moncrief.

Some teachers will even sign up entire classes and take out books under their own names, she added.

The end of the summer will wind up with a finale party open to all children, regardless of participation during summer events. This is where students receive rewards for reaching their goals. There will be a train ride on site, a bouncy house,

obstacle course, free Kona Ice, lunch and much more.

“Ballard Party Rentals basically does it all for us, and the kids have a great time,” said Moncrief.

College Counts, an organization providing information on planning for future education, is typically on site as well.

After the finale, the library will host back-to-school giveaway drawings for backpacks filled with school supplies.

During the year, Mamie’s Place partners with school librarians to help acquire necessary items the school may not be budgeted to receive. They also Events for All Ages partner with teachers to order Clockwise from top left: books that may be within their A magician entertains curriculums. at the library; The finale For a full schedule of events or event offers train rides; more information, call the library Petting zoos come to at 256-234-4644. town for the program.

Lake Martin Living 37

OH SNAP! 1

2

3

Fish for Ferst Tournament

5

April 13, 2019 Chuck's Marina, Dadeville 1. Sue Paggen and Dawn Tincher 2. Fred and Liz Bradford and Kathy Loftus

6 3. Cathy Delionback, Susan Webb and Gayle Jones 4. Jimmy Perry and David Gallahar 5. Mike Matthews and Patricia Koski 6. Tommy Purcell and Cullen Stafford

38 Lake Martin Living

4

OH SNAP! 2

1

3

Hop Up Pop-Up Art Event

4

April 20, 2019 Dadeville 1. Tracy Robbins and Cheryl Bynum

5

2. Kira and Justin Woodall

3.Ed Shikoski and Micah Nelson

4. Ryan Downing and Trest Richerson

5. Jerry Peters and Julie Langhorne

Lake Martin Living 39

OH SNAP! 1

2

4 3

River Bank Customer Appreciation Day

5

April 26, 2019 Alexander City 1. Carla Reese and Destini Porch 2. Patti and Hershel Walker 3. Mabry and Marty Cook 4. William and Sarah Kerley 5. Haley Fuller, Sharon Fuller and Courtney Layfield

6 40 Lake Martin Living

6. Hilda and Frank Hurst

OH SNAP! 1

2

4

3

Opening Weekend at The Landing

5

6

April 21, 2019 Parker Creek, Equality 1. Andrew, Richard and Laurel Lykes, Ellison Nation, Tony and Isabella Webster, Emily, Nate, Sarah, Michael, Brian and Erin Rhodes

2. Tyler, Hayden and Hannah Deep 3. Clabe Dobbs and Taylor Wilson 4. Josh Vanhunnik, Clarity Phillips, Gregga Gidley, Jen, Bella, Clay and Brysen Hawkins and Kim Vanhunnik 5. Patricia and Ronnie Samford 6. Torrey Hall and Herb Winches Lake Martin Living 41

OH SNAP! 1

2

3

Russell Marine

4

5

In-Water Boat Show April 26-28, 2019 Ridge Marina, Alexander City 1. Jack Glendinning, Mark Hanna and Lindsey Elrod 2. Kristen Mulford, Ben Stelly, Kayla Griffin and Evan Becton 3. Sarah, John Caleb, John and Charlotte Wood 4. Owen Knight, Riley Graham and Hayden Marbut 5. Michael and Leslie O’Kelley 6. Larry and Kevin Morgan, Kayla McCarthy and Nancy Morgan

42 Lake Martin Living

6

OH SNAP! 1

3

2

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5

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Funky Fun Run for Autism April 13, 2019 Charles E. Bailey Sportplex 1. Jennifer Claybrook, Vicki Griffin and Amber and Mikayla Pitts 2. Misty Sanders, Brandon and Kim Johnson and

7

Melanie Tapley 3. Haley Mask and Chris Mann 4. Torrie Mullins and Morgyn Wright 5. Stephen and Smantha Brasher 6. Jerry the Mascot and Melissa Mullins 7. Tonya McCain and Nolan McCain-Mangram

Lake Martin Living 43

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Miss Lake Martin Area Rodeo Pageant

Contestants compete within six divisions

N

ewborns up to ladies ages 20 years old will dazzle the Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium stage for the inaugural Miss Lake Martin Area Rodeo Pageant on June 9. The Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area, as a stop along the route to its annual rodeo, will host the event.

Starting at 2 p.m., girls up to age 9 years old will model Western wear, and contestants that are ages 10 to 20 years old will sparkle in evening wear. There will be six divisions for judging: Tiny, ages 0-2; Little, ages 3-5; Petite, ages 6-9; Junior, ages 1012; Teen, ages 13-15; and Miss, ages 16-20.

Winners will be present at the 13th Annual Lake Martin Area Rodeo the weekend of July 5 and 6. The Miss category winner will attend promotional events for the rodeo and represent the Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area.

Premier prize packages will be awarded to the winners of each category, and each division also will include a viewer’s choice winner. There will be an additional $10 fee for contestants wishing to participate in the Miss Photogenic division.

Admission to the pageant is $2 for girls ages 9 and under and $10 for ages 10 to 20.

Applications can be found at the BGCLMA office at 1009 Cherokee Rd., Alexander City. The deadline to register is May 30, and a picture must be included with the application.

Rehearsals will be held June 8 at the BRHS Auditorium from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, contact Courtnie Perry at courtnieperrybgc@gmail.com or call the BGCLMA office at 256-234-4757.

44 Lake Martin Living

May 18

4th Annual Dadeville Chamber of Commerce Cornhole Tournament

The Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual cornhole tournament at The Rodeo Club in Dadeville. Registration begins at 10 a.m., and the bags fly at 12 p.m. There will be commemorative T-shirts available for the first 40 people. The first tournament is $25 per person to enter, and the second will be $20 per team. There will be $1,000 in prize money awarded, and a cornhole set will be given away. For more information, call the chamber of commerce at 256-825-4019.

May 24-25 RXR Fest

RXR Fest is a two-day music festival held on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Beginning on Friday, you are invited to bring your cooler, your lawn chair, your pup (on a leash, please) and your friends and family, or come alone and make new friends. There is no charge, and you’ll hear great music from local musicians, regional musicians, and some national acts may happen along, too. From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. each evening, enjoy free live music. Artist lineup includes The Bank Walkers, The Tosha Hill Band, Locust Fork Band and more. Look for more information at RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com.

May 25-26

Art on the Lake

More than 80 artists and vendors from across the Southeast will come together to offer their handmade crafts. Crowds typically reach nearly 5,000. This art event is located on the grounds of Children’s Harbor’s Lake Martin campus. Art on the Lake is in its 14th year of welcoming poeple back to the lake for Memorial Day weekend. A portion of all purchases benefits Children’s Harbor. For more information, contact Rachael White at rachaelwhite@childrensharbor.com.

May 26

Heroes Run

Wind Creek State Park will host a Memorial Day Heroes 5K run/walk at 8 a.m. The route will go through the campground and along the shoreline of Lake Martin. Registration is $25 and can be done online at active.com or on the morning of the run. Free T-shirts will be given to participants.

May 28

Russell Marine Slalom Clinic

Russell Marine will host a slalom clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kowaliga Marina, 255 Kowliga Marina Rd. For more information or to register, call the marina at 256-397-1210.

June 1

LMRA Annual Meeting

Lake Martin Resource Association will host its annual meeting at Kowaliga Restaurant, starting with a buffet breakfast at 8 a.m. There will be updates from Steve Morgan on criminal activity; Marine Police Lt. Mark Fuller; Steve Forehand with updates on COE lawsuit, and Roger Holliday will provide a Russell Lands update, including summer events. Ed Collari will speak on behalf of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, and LMRA will close out the meeting. All LMRA members are invited to attend.

June 1

Dylan LeBlanc and The Pollies

Standard Deluxe will host Dylan LeBlanc with guest star The Pollies in the Little House indoor stage at 7 p.m. Gates will open at 5:30 p.m., and supper will be available for purchase in the FeedShak.

For tickets or more information, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

June 1

Pop Art, Paint and Pinot

Head to Pursell Farms in Sylacauga, 386 Talladega Springs Rd., at 6 p.m. to paint along with pop artist Tim Spanjer and take home a keepsake work of art inspired by ’60s pop artist Roy Lichtenstein. Sample Oregon Pinot Noir with a catered dinner by Executive Chef Andrea Griffith. The cost per person will be $75 (exclusive of taxes and gratuities) and includes dinner, wine, paint, canvas and brushes. Reservations are limited and can be made by calling Pursell Farms at 256-208-4402. For additional information, visit PursellFarms.com.

June 3

Summer Reading Program Kick-off

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library will host its annual Summer Reading Program Kick-off event at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex gym from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to signify the start of the

seasonal event. Gutsy Fox, a gymnastic family, will perform from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and Skin and Bones Comedy Circus will entertain from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Children of all ages are welcome to attend. For more information, call the library at 256-234-4644.

June 6

Wakeboard/Wakesurf Clinic

Kowaliga Marina, located at 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., will host a clinic for wakeboarders and wakesurfers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information or to sign up, call 256-397-1210.

June 8

Little House Show in Waverly

Standard Deluxe will host Kristina Murray and Riley Downing at its indoor stage for the last Little House concert until fall. For information and tickets, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

June 8

Intro to Sailing

Lake Martin’s Dixie Sailing Club, located at 767 New Hope Church Rd., will host a free introduction to sailing class from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be lessons on the basics of sailing, parts of the sailboat, how to capsize and upright the boat, along with learning how to sail a Sunfish and meeting members of the DSC. Each student will get to sail with a member. A free hot dog lunch will be provided. It’s recommended to bring a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen and a life jacket if you have one, but some will be available on site. The class is limited to 60 participants. To register, call Keith Bennett at 334-324-9383 or email him at cat221@msn.com.

June 8

Li’l Calypso

Chuck’s Marina will host this 17th annual art show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Held right on the water’s edge, this art fest will feature more than 60 regional artists to include quality crafts, jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, metal work, furniture and more. For more information, visit Chuck’s Marina Facebook page.

June 6-15

Alexander City Sun Festival

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce will host 10 days of activities for the whole family. For a full schedule of events, visit alexcitychamber.com.

Lake Martin Living 45

June 8

National Marina Day and Customer Appreciation

All five Russell Marine locations on Lake Martin will celebrate with free hot dogs, chips and drinks for the family.

Visit www.russellmarine.net for details.

June 15

Miss Lake Martin Pageant

The annual Miss Lake Martin Pageant will be held at the Dadeville High School Auditorium with more than 100 contestants vying for the crown. Ladies compete in casual wear and evening wear, and Miss/Elite Ms. contestants will answer onstage questions. The Baby/ Little Miss pageant will start at 11 a.m., and the pre-teen/Elite Ms. will start at 6 p.m. The Miss Lake Martin 2019 winner will be presented with a $2,000 cash scholarship. Admission to the event for spectators is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12, and ages 3 and under are free. For more information, email misslakemartinpageant@gmail.com or call Brittany McGregor at 334-332-4701 or Stormy Hubbard at 256-596-2155.

June 15

Brett Cobb & Them at Standard Deluxe

Music venue Standard Deluxe in Waverly will host Brett Cobb & Them on the outdoor stage. Gates open at 4 p.m., and supper will be available for purchase in the FeedShak. The show begins at 7 p.m., and tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.

Kids ages 14 and under are free. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and coolers. For information or to purchase a ticket, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

June 18

All Wakesurf Clinic

Russell Marine will host an all wakesurf clinic at The Ridge Marina, 450 Ridge Marina Way, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call the marina at 256-397-1300.

June 28-30

Nautique Southeast Regatta

Nautique Boats has teamed up with World Wake Association for a weekend of family-friendly events on and off the water. The action-packed weekend, based at The Ridge Marina, will include private demos and clinics with Team Nautique athletes, a poker run, kids’ 46 Lake Martin Living

contests, a golf tournament and a dinner and awards ceremony. The event is free to Nautique owners. Register for activities at thewwa.com/event/.

July 4

43rd Fourth of July Boat Parade

Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area, at 1009 Cherokee Rd. For more information, call Melissa Reynolds or Misty Chadwick at 256-234-4757 or email chadwick.misty05@gmail.com.

July 5-6

8th Annual Arti Gras

Decorate your boat and join the patriotic crowd at Kowaliga Marina as boats of all sizes, shapes and decoration will parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor, circling just past the lighthouse. Spectators line the banks along the parade route to applaud their favorite patriotically decorated boats and contestants. Registered boats will vie for top honors of the Largest Flag, Tallest Flag, Most Patriotic and Most Creative. Call 256-397-1210 or visit www.russellmarine.net for times and entrant information.

Artisans and patrons from all over the Southeast will have their handmade goods on display for sale at Russell Crossroads from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. This is a juried art show, and all works must be original and handcrafted.

For information or to be a vendor at the show, contact Tyler Mitchell at tmitchell@russelllands.com or call 256-212-1443. The deadline to sign up is June 21. An exhibitor fee is $100 for a single booth and $190 for a double booth through May 31, but fees will increase as time gets closer.

July 4

Season-Long Events

Fireworks and concert at The AMP

Join us on the lawn at The Lake Martin Amphitheater for this not-tobe-missed fireworks display. Find your spot on the soft grass. The earth will shake, and the sky over Lake Martin will be illuminated with a thousand different colors. This July 4 will mark 18 years that Russell Lands, Inc., has hosted the Southeast’s Largest Fireworks Show over Lake Martin. The gates to The AMP open at 5 p.m. In 2019, the concert features The Bank Walkers and The Tyn Tymes; and then, the highlight of the night: The fireworks show begins at 9 p.m. The band returns after the fireworks show. Call 256-397-1019 or visit theamponlakemartin.com for more information.

July 5-6

13th Annual Lake Martin Rodeo

The Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area will host its annual two-day rodeo at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in the Horse Riding Arena.

The gates will open at 5 p.m., and there will be live entertainment from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. before the rodeo starts.

All proceeds support the local boys and girls club, which has become a staple in the community with more than 1,000 people in attendance each year. Tickets can be purchased at Tractor Supply, Depot Pawn and Gun, Kowaliga Country and the office of the

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

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

Coffee & Connections

Every third Tuesday of the month, the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce hosts a networking event at 8 a.m. open to any chamber member. Participants should meet at the TPI bullpen at the Lake Martin Innovation Center for coffee, a light breakfast and a chance to network with community members.

Open Studio

The Artists Association of Central Alabama meets at 11:30 a.m. every Thursday at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Senior Center and at 10 a.m. on Mondays at the Dadeville Senior Center on Columbus St. Beginners are welcome. For more information, email vkfincher@aol.com.

Music on the Deck

Every Sunday, there will be live music at Kowaliga Restaurant from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Strand Sessions

The Lake Martin Young Professionals will host its annual concert series in Strand Park, downtown Alexander City.

On the first Thursday of each month through August, come out to enjoy some live music on the lawn from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. It will be free to attend and is a family-friendly event. Bring coolers, chairs, blankets and food or support local downtown merchants. For information and artist lineup, visit lakemartinyp.com.

First Saturday Markets

Standard Deluxe in Waverly will host its local markets on the first Saturday of each month through September. Local vendors will be on site, the T-shirt shop will be open and food will be available for purchase. For more information, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

Teen Martial Arts Classes at the Library

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library will host a United Martial Arts program for teens taught by Russell Wright with United Martial Arts Academy every Tuesday at 10 a.m. June 4 through July 16.

For information, call 256-234-4644.

Yoga on the Green

Every Saturday, May 25 to Sept. 27, there will be free yoga on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m.

Catherine’s Wine Tastings

Every Friday, beginning May 24, Catherine’s Market at Russell Crossroads will host wine tastings from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Worship on the Water

Dadeville First United Methodist Church will partner with New Water Farms to host non-denominational worship services every Sunday through Sept. 29 at 8:30 a.m. New Water Farms is located at 460 Civitan Rd. in Dadeville.

Wind Creek State Park Church Services

Pastor Wayne Wright from Mt. Zion Baptist Church will lead worship services at the clubhouse at 8:30 a.m. every Sunday. Day-use fee applies for non-campers.

Church of Living Waters

Every Sunday through Sept. 1, Church of the Living Waters hosts guest speakers from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

May 26: Billy Coleman June 2: Rev. Faron Golden June 9: Rev. Scotty Hollins June 16: Rev. Jim Pate

Church in the Pines

Sunday services will begin at 9 a.m. with rotating guest speakers.

May 19: John Mann May 26: George Mathison June 2: Gates Shaw June 9: Lee Dominque June 16: Lawson Bryan

Episcopal Services at Church in the Pines

The Episcopal services will include outdoor praise and worship with an acoustic band on June 9 and 23, July 14 and 28 and Aug. 11 snd 25. Dress is casual, and service begins at noon.

To have your event listed in Lake Martin Living’s calendar section, please email date, time and details to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

Movie Day at Mamie’s Place

Every Thursday at 2 p.m. June 6 through July 18, Mamie’s Place Children’s Library will host a movie day as part of its summer reading program. The event is open to all ages. For more information, call 256-234-4644.

Alexander City Farmers Market

The Farmers Market at Broad Street Plaza will open for the season on the first Saturday in June and will remain open through September. Find fresh produce – including blueberries, tomatoes, peppers, beans and corn – along with honey, jams, jellies, handmade art and more. Vendors will be open from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. For more information, contact Main Street Alexander City at 256-329-9227.

Fourth Fridays at EPAC

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

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

O’Neal Electric Michael O’Neal

256-510-2146 Electrical • Controls DataCom • Security Serving Central Alabama for over a decade!

Lake Martin Living 47

9

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

9

Power lines

280

17

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

13

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

Flint Hill Church

22

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Pleasant Grove Church

25

11

9

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

259

6

Seman

4 Camp Kiwanis

9

11 1 Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko w

ali

ga

2

18 5

Union Landing

21

Walnut Hill

y

19 24

Stillwaters

8 Ba

22 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

Church in The Pines

80

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

9 63 16 10

Equality

231

15

Smith Landing

Willow Point 24

Dadev

280

57

20

7

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

26

Liberty Church

20

Jacksons Gap

23

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

14

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic Santuck Kent

Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

48 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUNT

Marinas

Daviston

1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 2 The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

22

33. River North Marina 256-397-1500

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 4 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026 5 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

hoe Bend nal Park

6 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

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

smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com 8 Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853

CHAMBERS COUNTY

ville

10 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

50

Camp Hill

Restaurants 9 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

11 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Business & Shopping 280

Waverly 50

12

LEE COUNTY

12 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850 13 Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567

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

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 15 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 16 The Stables at Russell Crossroads

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

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

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

Hotels & Lodges 21 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

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

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 23 Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-444-8793

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

Dock Builders 24 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 25 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment 26 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

Loachapoka 14

Notasulga

ON TY

85 81

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

Lake Martin Living 49

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

ALEXANDER CITY

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

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

Lake Martin’s Best Source for News and Information.

50 Lake Martin Living

Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Que Campus of CACC Carlisle's Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart Emporium Wine Grace’s Flowers Hampton Inn Holley’s Home Furnishings Hometown Pharmacy Jackson Drugs Jake’s JR’s Sports Bar & Grill Koon’s Korner Koon’s Korner II Lake Martin Building Supply Lakewinds Golf Club Larry’s General Store Longleaf Antiques Mark King Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot Touchless Boat Covers Valley Bank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

CHELSEA

The Ditsy Daisy Boutique Winn-Dixie

CHILDERSBURG Winn-Dixie

DADEVILLE

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

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

ECLECTIC

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

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

INVERNESS

Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Area Tree Top Family Adventure Winn-Dixie

KELLYTON

Five Star Plantation

MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market

RED HILL Citgo

SYLACAUGA

Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly on 21

TALLASSEE

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

WALNUT HILL

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA

The Wetumpka Herald

Celebrating 25 Years!

at Blue Creek Stop by Today!

SUN - THU 10:30am - 9:00pm FRI - SAT 10:30am - 10:00pm

Southern-Style Cuisine Catering Available from 5-500

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• Updated Pro Shop • Junior Golf Program • Annual Tournaments • Weekly Matches

Lake Martin Living 51

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY SEE ME FOR INSURANCE Heating & Cooling Central Alabama for over 30 Years

Welcome JERRY DODWELL as our new General Manager!

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Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Lighting the Way for the Lake & River Region for more than 125 Years

To subscribe call Linda Ewing 256-234-4281 P.O. Box 999, 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010

52 Lake Martin Living

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

Lacey Howell/ReMax.............................................................................8

Advanced Heating & Air.................................................................... 5 2

Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 27, 52

Beyond Home Care............................................................................ 2 2

Laketown Properties............................................................................5

Big B Bar-B-Que................................................................................. 3 3

Lake Winds Golf................................................................................ 5 1

Bob Alexander Landscaping .............................................................. 3 3

Mark King Furniture...........................................................................55

Bolton Cove.......................................................................................25

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

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation......................................................... 5 0

Noel Boone........................................................................................52

C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 5 0

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery................................................... 2 2

Cahaba Glass..................................................................................... 5 1

O'Neal Electric................................................................................... 4 7

Carlisle Heating & Air........................................................................ 2 6

Oskar's.............................................................................................. 5 1

Children's Harbor...............................................................................23

Outdoor Women Unlimited................................................................17

DAVCO Development........................................................................ 5 2

Prime Management........................................................................... 2 2

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

Professional Plumbing Service............................................................53

Four Seasons..................................................................................... 5 2

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

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

River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 5 2

Gilbert Woodcrafts.............................................................................52

Russell Lands........................................................................................2

Harbor Pointe Marina........................................................................ 2 5

Russell Medical.................................................................................. 5 6

Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance...................................................... 5 2

Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................. 3 2

Heritage South Credit Union.............................................................. 2 6

Southern Sash................................................................................... 5 1

Hinson Galleries.................................................................................32

Surgical Dermatology......................................................................... 1 7

Jackson Thornton............................................................................. 2 7

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

Jim Debardelaben..............................................................................35

Swearingen Fence.............................................................................. 5 0

Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance................................................ 5 2

UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic.............................................................13

Kelley’s Heating & Air........................................................................ 5 2

Wind Creek Zipline..............................................................................3

Lake Martin Living 53

Log scenic steps to switch it up Culture Shock

F

itness and diet trends are as seasonal as the racks at Forever 21, but there is no doubt that step counters are here to stay. They are easily calculated on our smart phones and Fitbits. About 10,000 steps is equivalent to 5 miles, which is the average recommended daily number of steps humans should take for optimal health. You just need to move!

We are surrounded by natural beauty here in Tallapoosa County.

There are so many locations to enjoy the outdoors and stay active.

Lacey Howell If you are new to the area or quickly becoming a more regular resident, here are some insider tips on creative places to exercise other than the gym.

Central Alabama Community College: There is a quarter-mile track located on the left side of the campus.

Four laps equal 1 mile. Another scenario is to complete one lap on the track and one lap around the asphalt drive of campus to reach 1 mile. For a change of scenery, cross over Cherokee Road into the Young Acres neighborhood for increased mileage.

There is a set of concrete steps (maybe about 50) to the left of CACC’s entrance, as well, where people could run endless rounds. In my opinion, nothing is better for a workout than running steps.

For those looking to increase elevation, I suggest you run Ridgeway Drive and Meadowbrook Circle. Your quads will thank you later. Downtown Alexander City has sidewalks, and Strand Park makes a great loop to include in an afternoon stroll or run.

Alexander City’s Charles E. Bailey Sportplex is located within city limits and offers great walking opportunities.

Many people may have never noticed the CrossFit-style exercise course that is located near the military tanks. It has pull up bars, rings and a sit-up station.

StillWaters community in Dadeville provides plenty of open roads. Grab a friend and eat lunch at Copper’s Grill; then, walk around the neighborhood. I was told they have an estimated 25 to 30 miles of roads within the subdivision.

Also in Dadeville, Keebler Park contains a 1/2-mile paved walking trail, which is frequently used by walkers.

This area has been recently refreshed to include additional landscaping and outdoor learning opportunities. Nearly 60 native tree varieties grow throughout the park.

Just outside of Dadeville, Horseshoe Bend National Military Park not only offers educational experiences but also a handicap-accessible nature trail. The 2.8-mile route 54 Lake Martin Living

Outdoor Exercise

Keebler Park in Dadeville offers a walking track through nature.

Top Fitness Apps Romwod videos to optimize range of motion through stretching (only for iOS devices) Fitbit Coach provides personalized guided workouts Asana Rebel yoga workouts to improve health Nike Run Club for outdoor cardio: tracks runs via GPS and provides audio-guided runs Aaptiv for those that love group fitness classes ($15 per month) winds its way around the historic Battle of Horseshoe Bend battlefield.

Hiking trails are a great option for some outdoor exercise and scenic surroundings. Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association, Russell Forest Trails and Wind Creek State Park all offer endless picturesque trails to explore. This time of year, I recommend wearing sleeves, hats and bug spray to protect from ticks.

Our community is filled with wonderful opportunities to embrace nature and appreciate all it has to offer. You might as well clock in a few steps at the same time! ~ Lacey Howell is a recovering English major from Auburn who now lives on Lake Martin, sells real estate, rides horses and loves good wine (but isn’t afraid of boxed wine). She is still bothered that Brad and Angelina broke up. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram @LaceyHowell.

Lake Martin Living 55