Lake Magazine June 2023

Lake Martin Beaches

We’re going places at Lake Martin, and though the places we’re going and how we get there might change through the years, the Lake Martin experience remains fun-filled and idyllic from generation to generation. In this issue of Lake magazine, we talk a little bit about where to go and a little bit about how you might get there. The fun-filled and idyllic part is just Lake Martin showing off.

As you might guess from Kenneth Boone’s fabulous cover photo, we formally introduce you to Lake Martin’s overabundance of beaches this month. Most of them are free, and many are unoccupied. They’re easily accessible, and there’s lots to do – or do nothing at all – when you arrive. We get you started with a few of our favorites on page 30, but we also invite you to go exploring. Discover your own sandy beach on shoreline or island at Lake Martin this summer.

If you’re looking for the newest and sleekest ways to get there, turn to page 44 for a peak at the next generation of boating. Kenneth Boone aimed his camera at the electric boats on display at the Russell Marine In-water Boat Show at the end of April. We can expect that this is just the beginning. Look for more e-boats at the lake in the future.

We checked out another mode of transportation at Lake Martin in the last few weeks, too. This one has been around for more than 200 years, and while it really went nowhere, it will have a global impact. Alabama Power hosted the Second Annual Water Cycle & Dam Jam at Martin Dam April 22, a metric century bicycle ride across lake area country roads to raise funds for water projects in Guatemala and Bolivia. Turn to page 24 to join the fun.

This month, we’ll also take you to a few old favorite haunts at the lake where a good time is always promised. The lineup has been set for Alex City Jazz Fest in Strand Park and at Lake Martin Amphitheater. Turn to page 20 and start making your plans to be there. You’ll also find the full schedule for this year’s Sun Festival inserted in this issue of Lake magazine. Invite friends and family to join you for nine days of celebrating summer at Lake Martin.

Be sure to upload photos of your favorite Lake Martin beach escapes at lakemagazine.life, as this will be a summer for the memory books.

Chairman

KENNETH BOONE editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

General Manager

TIPPY HUNTER editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Editor in Chief

BETSY ILER editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Art Director

AUDRA SPEARS audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com

Business & Digital Development Director

ANGELA MULLINS angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com

Audience Development Director

ERIN BURTON erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing RENEE TRICE renee.trice@alexcityoutlook.com

CRAIG HOWARD craig.howard@thewetumpkaherald.com

SHERYL JENNINGS sheryl.jennings@thewetumpkaherald.com

EMILY GREGG emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com

HIDEY ARRINGTON hidey.arrington@alexcityoutlook.com

KENNETH BOONE

BREANNA MANLEY

JULIE HUDSON

GREG VINSON

CLIFF WILLIAMS

PETE MCKENNY

STEVE ARNBERG

WILLIAM MARLOW

LIZI GWIN

HENRY ZIMMER

ABIGAIL MURPHY

LONNA UPTON

HARRY DENEGRE

DAVE JENNINGS

Editor-in-Chief

Betsy Iler,

On the Cover

It's summer at Lake Martin, time to head to one of Lake Martin's beaches. Whether you are looking for a serene spot to read a book and sip a cool drink; hoping to find a pick up volley ball game and a good band; or want to let the kids swim and play to their hearts' content, Lake Martin has a beach for that – and more. Don't miss an opportunity to find yours.

Photo by Kenneth Boone

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20. JAZZ FEST

This year's two-day concert series promises good music and great times.

24. WATER CYCLE & DAM JAM

The 2023 event at Martin Dam raised $27,000 for water projects in Guatemala and Bolivia.

30. LAKE MARTIN BEACH

Find the good life at one of Lake Martin's many and varied beaches.

36. ARTI GRAS

Now in its 12th year, this July 4th art show is one of the area's favorites.

40. THE BENJAMIN LAKE CLUB

Russell Lands unveils its fabulous and exclusive clubhouse at The Heritage.

44. ELECTRIC AT THE LAKE

From boards to cruisers to luxury sporty rides, electric isn't just for automobiles at Lake Martin.

50. WORTH THE WAIT

An Atlanta couple finally is at home in a lake house built during the pandemic.

OF THE

Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake

Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators

Work has begun on a second fire tower at the lake

Footings have been dug for Lake Martin's second firetower, which Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association volunteers will build near existing trails in the Overlook area at the south end of the lake.

Two years ago, CRATA purchased 12 acres of Alabama Power Martin Dam project land for the 110-foot tower that will complement the nonprofit organization's original tower at Smith Mountain on the east side of Lake Martin.

"This is high profile property," said CRATA's president, Steve Thomas, who along with CRATA founder Jimmy Lanier announced the endeavor last fall. "The tower will enhance an already great view of the lake and will attract people to our trails, making the lake even more of a great destination."

The Smith Mountain Fire Tower was restored and reconstructed on its original site 12 years ago. For this second tower, CRATA volunteers traveled to Virginia to dismantle the tower after it was assessed and determined salvageable.

Each piece was tagged and has been hot-dip galvanized to prolong the life of the tower, but additional materials will be added to enhance the safety of visitors,

Lanier said.

"Safety will be our primary concern, just as it was on the Smith Mountain Fire Tower," Lanier said.

The 501 (c) 3 organization hopes to raise $70,00 toward this and other CRATA projects.To donate, send checks to CRATA, c/o Jimmy K.

Weather Outlook for June

June 2023 Forecast

Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the upper 80s and average lows in the mid 60s with about 4 and three-quarters inches of precipitation in the month of June.The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures and rainfall will lean above average this month.

Year-to-Date

Precipitation: 24.83

Avg. high temp.: 68.4

Avg. low temp.: 43.8

Avg. temp.: 56.1

Information from the National Weather Service.

Our Normal June

Precipitation: 4.76 inches

Avg. high temp.: 88.2

Avg. low temp.: 66.1

Avg. temp.: 77.1

Left: CRATA volunteers Jimmy Lanier and Steve Thomas stand at the edge of a footing for the second firetower at Lake Martin; Below: Thomas and Lanier stand in front of a rock that was dug out of a footing hole as they hold one of the eight 7-foot bolts that will anchor the tower.

Last Month's Lake Levels

Summer: 491 MSL

Winter: 481 MSL

Highest: 490.32

Lowest: 490.16

Lake depth is measured in reference to mean sea level. For up-to-date water levels at the lake, visit lakes.alabamapower.com.

Lake elevations are subject to change. Individuals who recreate below Martin Dam and those with boats and waterrelated equipment on the lake should always stay alert to changing conditions.

Lanier, P.O. Box 240503, Eclectic AL 36024.

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 of Lake Martin Realty, LLC (a Russell Lands, Inc., affiliated company).

READER SUBMISSIONS

(1) Scott Little took this gorgeous shot of Harbor Pointe in the last firey light of day at Lake Martin. (2) Bennett Onushko is suited up and ready for a boat ride. (3) Amber Beasley's labs, Bailey Bear and Hailey Claire, catch a little sun on the beach after a swim in Lake Martin. (4) Big dog, big boat, big time at the lake. (5) Springtime on Powell Drive at Lake Martin is as beautiful as ever. (6) Amber Cleveland snapped this Lake Martin sunset just as the water reflected the sun's orange glow.

READER SUBMISSIONS

(1) Wanda Carrigan, Debra Cannon, Susan Griffin, Linda Moore and Susan Slaughter celebrated Derby Day at Lake Martin.(2) Tony Johnson found this 20-pound yellow catfish on his fishing rod. The biggest surprise was that he hadn't baited the hook. (3) The water is like glass early in the morning as the moon sets on Lake Martin. (4) Camellia Sanchez caught this 3.98-pound bass in a mid-March fishing tournament at Lake Martin and won the Big Fish pot. (5) No need to chase the rainbows at Lake Martin because finding the lake at the end of the rainbow is better than a pot of gold. (6) Though the water was muddy after record rainfalls, the mountain laurel showcased Lake Martin's shorelines with delicate beauty.

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READER SUBMISSIONS

(1) Lake magazine spent Christmas in Breckenridge, Colorado, with Tony and Beth Brown. (2) Doug and Barbara Reid took Lake to the tip of South America at Ushuaia. (3) Hawaiian Hooligans Jerry and Janet Scott, Jim and Rita Patton, Charles and Rita Huey, Sammy and Tracy Teel, Todd and Lynn Hayes, Beth Williams, Mark and Denise Allred and Allen and Linda Brewer took Lake on a seven-day Hawaiian cruise. The magazine had a wonderful time in such delightful company. (4) Liz Lowe and Scott Cone took Lake magazine scuba diving in Bonaire. (5) Margaret Ann Wingler took Lake magazine to Dollywood. (6) Lake visited a rookery of Gentoo penguins at Damoy Point in Antarctica with Aleem Gillani.

Now thru July 4

Crank 4 Bank

Registration is now open for this year’s tagged fishing tournament on Lake Martin, which includes the chance to win a $1 million cash prize, one of two new bass boats, a pontoon boat, a new truck, or $1,500 per tagged bass caught. This year’s tag color is hot pink, and every tagged fish caught by a registered angler is a winner. Registration is $110 and includes entry into a virtual fishing event running concurrent with Crank 4 Bank. Visit crank4bank.com for details, rules and registration. Tickets can be purchased online, the Wind Creek State Park Marina or from a member of your local high school fishing team to help them raise money.

Now thru May 31

Phins Fishing Classic

This virital fishing tournament benefits the United Way organizations represented by the zip codes of entrants. The event will feature six fish categories for bi-weekly and tournament door prizes. A special high school division will be a qualifier for scholarship applications. No entry fee. For details, visit fishingchaos.com.

June 1 thru 10

Sun Festival

May 27

Chuck’s Marina Adoption Event

Big Dog Ranch will visit Chuck’s Marina on Lake Martin with lots of dogs that need forever homes – big dogs, small dogs, dogs with spots and personality. Fall in love and take one home from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

May 27-28

Art on the Lake

This two-day event at Russell Crossroads features the works of local and regional artisans. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, you’ll find jewelry, reclaimed wood décor, paintings, pottery, metalwork, photography, candles, soaps and more at one of the lake area’s most popular juried art shows. For more information, call Sydnee Riley at 256212-1431 or send an email to her at sriley@ russelllands.com.

June 1

Craft-a-Noon

Get creative at 2 p.m. at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library at 284 Church St. in Alexander City as children make crafts to go with this year’s summer reading program theme.

May 31

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN

Get ready for a great week as Alexander City Chamber of Commerce celebrates the 11th Annual Sun Festival, nine days of jam-packed fun with live music, activities for kids and adults and the chance to find the Sun Festival medallion and win $200 daily. Visit alexcitychamber.com/sunfest for the full schedule of events or check out the Sun Festival day-by-day guide inserted in this issue of Lake magazine.

May 26 & 27 RXR Fest

Come out to Russell Crossroads at 6:30 p.m. for a free Memorial Day weekend concert series. Friday’s concert will feature The Bank Walkers and Sam Burchfield. Saturday’s music will include Andrew Weaver and Easy Honey. Food trucks will be there to serve up your dinner or bring a cooler with your favorite picnic snacks and beverages. Start the summer on the Town Green. For more information, visit russelllands.com/blog/events.

Artists Association of Central Alabama

Don’t miss Mack Goddard and James Stone’s introduction to gourd art at 9:30 a.m. at the senior center at the sportplex in Alexander City. Lunch will be served after the presentation. Lunch is free for members; $5 for non-members.

June 1

McWane Center at Dadeville Library

Representatives from Birmingham’s McWane Science Center will visit Dadeville Public Library at 2 p.m. with hands-on activities focused on the All Together Now summer reading program theme.

June 2

Larry

Whitfield

at Dadeville Performing Arts Center

Larry Whitfield returns to his old digs at The Red Door to share some country music and family memories at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 at the door. For more information, visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com.

Sun Festival in Alexander City features 10 days of fun in the sun from June 1 to June 10, including a day at the splashplex

June 3

Intro to Sailing

Dixie Sailing Club on Lake Martin will offer a free introduction to sailing course from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., including a short course on the basics of the sport; an introduction to the parts of a sailboat; and a capsizing and recovery demonstration. Lunch and refreshments provided. Guests will have an opportunity to skipper a small sailboat and sail on larger boats with club members. Bring a life jacket, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and a change of clothes. Class limited to the first 60 registered guests. To learn more or register, email cat221@msn.com or call Keith Bennett at 334-3249383.

June 5

Summer Reading Kickoff

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City will kick off this summer’s reading program, All Together Now, at 10 a.m. at the sportplex with Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor group. There will be eagles, hawks, owls and more, along with goodie bags, snacks and fun. To register, visit the library at 284 Church St. or sign up online at alexandercityal.beanstack.com.

June 5-9

Keepers of the Kingdom VBS

First Baptist Church in Dadeville will host a week of lessons on the Armor of God in the context of castles and kingdoms for Vacation Bible School this week. For details, call 256-825-6282.

June 6

Movie Day

Catch a movie at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City at 2 p.m. in keeping with this year’s summer reading theme, All Together Now

June 6-9

Youth Sailing Camp

Dixie Sailing Club will conduct a youth sailing camp for ages 7 to 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., covering basic sailing skills, water safety and STEM sessions. Fee is $125 with a discount available for siblings. For more information, email dscypmail@gmail.com.

June 7

KidsFest Magic Show

Sun Festival’s KidsFest Magic Show will partner with Mamie’s Place Children Library at 284 Church St., Alexander City, at 10 a.m. for an All Together Now program.

June 8

Animal Tales in Dadeville

John Ham will present an Animal Tales program at 2:30 p.m. at Dadeville Public Library for this year’s summer reading program, All Together Now.

June 8

Craft-a-Noon

Spend the afternoon getting creative at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City as children make crafts to go with this year’s summer reading program theme, All Together Now . Meet at 2 p.m. at 284 Church St.

June 10

HOBO Breakfast Meeting

Members will elect officers at this annual meeting at First Baptist Church, 178 S. Tallassee St., Dadeville. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. with speakers and business conducted from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Sign up at lakemartinhobos.com.

June 10

BRHS Class of 1973 Reunion

The 1973 Class of Benjamin Russell High School is celebrating their 50th reunion at 6 p.m. at The Ridge Club, 40 North Ridge, Alexander City. There will be a food truck to purchase burgers, barbeque and more. Soft drinks and water will be provided. Those wanting to enjoy a cocktail or beer should bring their own. Email Carroll Horton Magro at CarrollMagro@gmail.com for more information.

June 11

Pennington Park Farmers Market

Visit Pennington Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to get freshly picked produce and home-baked goods at the farmers market.

June 13

Mr. Larry’s Magic

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City will present a magic show focused on this year’s summer reading program theme, All Together Now , at 10 a.m. The library is located at 284 Church St.

June 14

Games & Puzzles

Bring the kids to Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City at 10 a.m. to make new friends, have fun and explore the wonderful world of books in this summer reading program on the theme of All Together Now . New games this year include Operation, Dancing Challenge and more.

June 15

McWane Center in Alexander City

Bring the kids to Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City at 10 a.m. for a wild morning of science about things that stay together – or apart in keeping with this year’s summer reading theme, All Together Now . The program is free.

June 17

LMRA Annual Meeting

Join the Lake Martin Resource Association Board of Directors for the annual breakfast meeting at Kowaliga Restaurant. Breakfast offered from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. followed by the meeting, which will include updates on membership, boating safety, advocacy and envirnomental issues pertaining to Lake Martin. Visit lmra.info.

June 17

Main Street Farmers Market Opens

Main Street Alexander City will open the Farmers Market from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. every Saturday through September. Pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, jellies, jams, breads, baked goods, handmade items and more at the market’s location in the old City Hall parking lot on Main Street.

June 20

Animal Tales in Alexander City

Join the fun at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library at 10 a.m. for an Animal Tale program in conjunction with the summer reading program, All Together Now

June 20-23

Youth Sailing Camp

Dixie Sailing Club will conduct a youth sailing camp for ages 7 to 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., covering basic sailing skills, water safety and STEM sessions. Fee is $125 with a discount available for siblings. For more information, email dscypmail@gmail.com.

June 21

Games & Puzzles

Bring the kids to Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City at 10 a.m. to make new friends, have fun and explore the wonderful world of books in this summer reading program on the theme of All Together Now

June 21

Lake Martin Auburn University Club Annual Banquet

Alumni and friends will meet at 6 p.m. at Willow Point Country Club. Speakers will be coaches Hugh Freeze and Bruce Pearl. Tickets are $50. Visit lakemartinauburnclub.com or the Facebook page.

June 22

Craft-a-Noon

Spend the afternoon getting creative at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City as children make crafts to go with this year’s summer reading program theme, All Together Now. Meet at 2 p.m. at 284 Church St.

June 23

Stories for Strong Communities

Storyteller Barry Mann will share a collection of stories that encompass the summer reading program theme, All

Together Now. The presentation will begin at 2:30 p.m. at Dadeville Public Library.

June 24

Grace and the Golden Rule

Dadeville children’s author Negrita Smart will share her book at 10 a.m. at the Dadeville Public Library in conjunction with the summer reading program, All Together Now

June 25

Pennington Park Farmers Market

Visit Pennington Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to get freshly picked produce and home-baked goods at the farmers market.

June 26-29

Summer Music & Related Arts Camp

Dadeville Performing Arts Center and associated organizations will offer a four-day integrated music/art/dance/ drama camp from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. for children in grades one through five in Tallapoosa County. This is a free program for local children. A limited number of spaces are available at $80 for children visiting the area. See program registration information at dadevilleperformingartscenter. com/classes.

June 27

Starshine Faces

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library at 318 Church St. in Alexander City will host a storytelling and face painting presentation at 10 a.m. in conjunction with the All Together Now summer reading program.

June 28

Didgeridoo Down Under

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library at 318 Church St. in Alexander City will present the DDU Show, a unique fusion of Australian music, culture, puppetry, comedy, storytelling and audience participation at 10 a.m.

June 29

Craft-a-Noon

Spend the afternoon getting creative at Mamie’s Place Children’s Library in Alexander City as children make crafts to go with this year’s summer reading program theme, All Together Now. Meet at 2 p.m. at 284 Church St.

June 29

Tallapoosa Bee Association Program

Members of the Tallapoosa Bee Association will present a program for children at 2:30 p.m. for the summer reading program at Dadeville Public Library.

July 1-2

Arti Gras

Artisans and patrons from across the Southeast will

gather under the big tents on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. once again for this annual juried art show. You’ll find jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture and more. For details, call Sydnee Riley at 256-212-1431 or email sriley@russelllands.com.

July 4

July 4th Boat Parade

Don’t miss this tradition at Lake Martin. Spectators line the parade route from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor to watch the boats idle by in patriotic regalia. Prizes awarded for the tallest flag, largest flag, most creative theme, most patriotic crew and best overall boat and crew. For details, call Kowaliga Marina at 256-397-1210.

July 4

July 4th Concert and Fireworks at The AMP

Bring lawn chairs, blankets and coolers to the grassy hillside at The AMP from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. for one of the South’s most spectacular fireworks displays and concert. Gates open at 5 p.m. The Bank Walkers will start the show this year, and Andrew Jannakos will perform from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. and again from 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. with fireworks between the sets. Admission is $10. Check out the details at russelllands. com/blog/events.

Season-long Events

Friday On The Green

There’s free music on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads every Friday night this summer, except during Jazz Fest. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, pups on the leash and coolers. There will be food trucks and lawn games. Friday On The Green is a great way to kickstart your weekend at the lake.

LMYP Game Night

Every third Thursday of the month, grab your crew and meet at The Local at 41 Main in downtown Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for games, laughs and exclusive LMYP drink specials. It’s free to play the games, like trivia and bingo and more, and the grand prize is always $50. Visit the Lake Martin Young Professionals Facebook page for more information.

The Waverly Local Music

The Waverly Local features live music every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., as well as Saturday in the courtyard from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and for Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit The Waverly Local on Facebook.

Yoga on the Green

Russell Lands will host yoga on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m. on Saturday mornings from Memorial Day weekend to the end of September. Bring a mat, water bottle and towel and start your weekend at Lake Martin with yoga in the open air.

Driving & Docking Clinics

Learn to operate and dock your boat during these free clinics at Singleton Marine. Sessions are held at 9:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. To reserve a free spot, call 256-825-8888 or email lnowling@singletonmarine.com.

n First Wednesday of each month through AugustPontoons

n Second Wednesday of each month through AugustSterndrives

n Third Wednesday of each month through AugustTow Boats

Lake Martin Strand Sessions

Lake Martin Young Professionals invite you to bring lawn chairs, blankets, picnic baskets, coolers and family and friends to Strand Park in downtown Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month through August for free music in the park. Watch the kids play, meet friends old and new and enjoy a pleasant evening. Visit the Strand Sessions Facebook page for details.

Alexander City Lions Club

Serving 27 local charities in Tallapoosa County, the Alexander City Lions Club meets at 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of each month at Lake Martin Area United Way office on Main Street. A meal is provided at the second meeting of the month, which features an engaging speaker. For more information, call Mae Lynn O’Neil at 256-750-7404.

Wellborn Musclecar Museum

Wellborn Musclecar Museum is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission for adults is $11; children ages 7 to 17 admitted for $7, and children ages 6 and under are admitted for free. Email wellbornmusclecarmuseum@gmail.com or call 256-329-8474.

Fiber Fridays

Bring knitting, crochet, needlepoint, embroidery and other fiber art projects to The Yarn Shop Around the Corner in Dadeville from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fridays to meet fellow fiber artisans, share tips and techniques and talk with others who share your interests. Call 334-444-1038 for details.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on state Route 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

Naturalist Marianne fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations. Check the calendar at RussellLands.com/blog/events for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Lake Martin News

Swim Alert begins second season of water safety tests on Lake Martin

Route 49; the Tallapoosa River at Jaybird Landing and at HSBNMP. All of these occurrences were after significant rainfall/runoff events, which suggests that the fecal contamination flushed off the landscape into the water with the rain. This pattern of no/infrequent contamination in the lake and rain-event-related contamination in the river and streams above the lake is consistent with last year’s testing. For the most recent test results, visit lakewatch.org/swim-alert.

Get out and enjoy the gorgeous waters of Alabama’s only Treasured Lake. Just be sure to check Lake Watch Swim Alert first, so you can have fun and be safe. Lake Watch Lake Martin memberships and donations support the Lake Watch Swim Alert, as well as other Lake Watch Lake Martin efforts to preserve and protect the lake and the lake community. For more information, visit lakewatch.org.

Eric Reutebuch

Yellow Top Ice Cream Shop launches two boats this season

The 2023 water recreation season is upon us, and to support a good time on and in the water this year, Lake Watch has expanded the Lake Watch Swim Alert network of water testing sites on Lake Martin from 12 in early 2022 to 18 sites this year. Most testing sites are at frequently used swim beaches or swimming holes. Sites extend from near Martin Dam north to the boat launch at Horseshoe Bend National Military Park and the Tallapoosa River, as well as on two streams – Hillabee and Emuckfaw creeks.

Lake Watch water monitors who have been trained and certified by Alabama Water Watch regularly test for E. coli once a month from April through October at their assigned sites and try to do an additional sampling after significant rainfall of greater than 1 inch. E. coli is a bacterium in the feces of warm-blooded animals and humans, and its presence in water is an indicator of fecal contamination. Water containing E. coli levels greater than 235 per 100 milliliters (about half a cup) is deemed unsafe for human contact/ swimming by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management and the EPA.

The Lake Watch corps of dedicated volunteer monitors and their monitor coordinator have launched this year’s Swim Alert testing, and as expected, things look clean throughout the lake. Monitors detected elevated levels of E. coli at only four sites so far – two creek sites: Hillabee Creek at State Route 22; Emuckfaw Creek at State

As the popular floating ice cream novelty shop begins its third season on Lake Martin this summer, Yellow Top Ice Cream Shop will serve from two boats.

"We’ve got more grandparents that want to help us have fun and make smiles," said Julie Owens in her Facebook announcement.

Owens and her husband Richard started the shop in 2021 at the behest of their 10-year-old grandson. The shop cruises the lake offering treats for sale on hot summer days. The shops’ locations are posted on Facebook. They are based at Maxwell Gunter Recreational Area.

Staff Report

This screenshot shows the swimming areas where testing is active. Visit lakewach.org for the most recent test results

Volunteer water monitor Dave Maddox tests the water at a local swimming area

Yellow Top Ice Cream Shop adds another set of grandparents to the operation

Jazz Fest

Alexander City's signature concert series kicks off June 9 in Strand Park

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY

TThe 33rd annual Alexander City Jazz Fest returns June 9 and 10 with a unique blend of artists in both Strand Park and at Lake Martin Amphitheater. With two music-filled nights brought together by six performances, this annual festival could have concertgoers dancing all night.

The two-night event starts off right with The Blackbird Pickers in Strand Park at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 9. A homegrown rock and roll band that originated in central Alabama, The Blackbird Pickers bring a folksy element to their performances with banjo, mandolin and harmonicas. With a slew of performances of original and cover songs under The Blackbird Pickers’ belt, this year’s Jazz Fest will start off with a bang.

Taking the stage after The Blackbird Pickers at 7:30 p.m. is the Adam Ezra Group. Dedicated to bringing fans an unforgettable performance showcasing their folk and rock infused set list, Adam Ezra Group began their performances at bars and other small venues, gaining a following and growing in popularity.

Eddie 9V, Friday night’s headliner, will close out the night with his performance at 9 p.m. The Atlanta native is known for his dedication to the emerging roots and blues club scene and brings audiences music filled with a rich sound comprised of horns, drums and guitars. The instrumental element, paired with his unmistakable vocals, makes for a great way to close out the first night of the Alexander City’s signature event.

On Saturday night, the music will carry on at Lake Martin Amphitheater beginning at 6 p.m. To open the second round of performances, the Birmingham-based group, Certainly So, made up of long-time friends Tanner Gray, Colby Wilson, Chase Porter and Zach Corder, will take to the stage.

The group took shape in early 2019, and loves bringing audiences new and exciting sounds through their own songs while bringing a taste of music influenced by some of your favorite bands.

Following the opening band, Of Good Nature, a band born in Charlotte, North Carolina, will make their way to the Amp’s stage at 7:30 p.m. Known for their feel-good lyrics and seamless blend of rock, soul, alternative, reggae and pop instrumentals, the band has captivated audiences across the U.S.

Of Good Nature has taken the world by storm, and in the process, was selected by Sierra Nevada as a featured artist for its ‘Doing Big Things’ promotion. They have performed with artists such as Michael Franti & Spearhead, Dirty Heads and Allen Stone.

To close out the night, Saturday’s headliner, Big Something, will begin their performance at 9 p.m. Big Something loves to take listeners on a journey through different musical styles throughout their performances. The group effortlessly fuses big rhythms, electronic wind instruments, horns and more for their collection of songs.

Big Something currently has six studio albums and continues to grab national attention with headlining performances across the U.S. Along with several concert performances, the group regularly performs at festivals, including the Peach Music Festival, Bonnaroo and Summer Camp Music Festival.

With incredible, back-to-back performances by these talented artists, you won’t want to miss this year’s concert series. For more information about the lineup, visit alexcityjazzfest.com.

Adam EzraGroup Eddie 9V

Big Something

White Oak Landing

is a collection of attractively priced, turn-key lakefront cottages. With nine cottage-style plans to choose from, the large, wooded, waterfront homesites are conveniently located on the north end of Lake Martin offering easy access to Highway 280, golf, dining, shopping, marina and medical care.

MODEL HOMES now under construction by

Water Cycle

STORY & PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER

AApril 22 dawned sunny and cool at Martin Dam, perfect weather for a 60-mile bicycle ride to raise funds for Auburn University engineering students’ favorite mission. Through the university’s chapter of Engineers Without Borders, the students help to provide water to remote rural communities in South America. In this second annual event, 104 riders raised more than $27,000, which will pay for the nonprofit organization’s next project.

The riders navigated a route of mostly clay and gravel roads, leaving the dam parking lot at 8 a.m. and returning in time for a catered authentic Guatemalan taco lunch, live music and awards for the best finishers. Riders chose to ride 60 miles, 30 miles or 15 miles through lake area countryside.

For more information about this Water Cycle and Dam Jam event, as well as the work of Auburn University’s EWB chapter, visit ewb.auburn.edu.

Alabama Power personnel supported and helped coordinate the event

The first leg of the route took riders past the Overlook area

It was a cool, crisp, beautiful day at Martin Dam

Riders left the dam early morning for a 60-, 30- or 15-mile ride

It was all smiles and plenty of energy at the start

Auburn EWB members played games while waiting for riders to return

Music played during the after-party

Below: Rain created one or two muddy spots on the trail; Bottom: The children loved the day at the dam; Right: Authentic Guatemalan tacos awaited riders at the finish.

Above: Riders celebrated by taking selfies with friends: Right Center: The kids picked flowers on the hillside: Right: Riders at the finish.

Top: Some riders were in it for the leisurely ride; Above: Others focused on time.

Everyday Grandeur

DISCOVER A LUXURIOUS GOLF

LIFESTYLE LIVING ALONG GRAND NATIONAL GOLF COURSE

Tucked away on the outskirts of Auburn University at the world-class Grand National Golf Course, the award winning National Village offers everything you’ll ever need for the way you want to live. The thoughtfully crafted master planned community features georgeous homes designed by national award winner Larry Garnett and built by Ab and Don Conner at Conner Bros. Construction Co., Inc., a local company with more than 100 years of experience. With the Marriott at Grand National on site, residents enjoy championship golf, miles of picturesque nature trails and lakes for fishing, spa and pool. National Village is truly an unbelievable place to live – inside or out. Plus, thanks to the high speed fiber optic network of Opelika (Alabama’s first Gig City), our homeowners enjoy some of the Nation’s fastest internet for any work- or learn-from-home requirements.

Find the good life at a Lake Martin Beach

STORY

BY BETSY ILER

PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE, BETSY ILER & CLIFF WILLIAMS

Emma Tapley dips a toe in the cool water at Lake Martin's Big Beach

AAlabama’s Freshwater Coast delivers everything you could find at the gulf coast or an oceanside resort – from surfing to striper fishing, flyboarding, hiking, cliff jumping, waterside dining and really great beaches. At Lake Martin, you have the luxury of choosing your beachside experience, whether you’re looking for a fun crowd or a quiet place to dive into your summer reading list.

Join throngs of new friends for a volleyball game in the sand at Wind Creek State Park Beach or let the kids feed the turtles at Kowaliga Beach. There’s usually a party going every summer weekend at the boataccess-only Big Beach, where you might even find live music, horseshoes or pick up a running game. D.A.R.E. Park Beach has a little of everything, including an honorable history.

And if you look forward to getting away from the crowds and want a cozy beach experience all to yourself and a few friends, pick a beach on one of Lake Martin’s many public islands.

Big Beach

Among many unofficial beaches at the lake, Big Beach is little more than a wide stretch of sand on Woods Island where lakegoers love to hang out. The boats often are parked three or more deep on a hot summer afternoon, and you’ll find people from every walk of life there, from doctors and lawyers to real

estate agents, plumbers and college students.

They’ll be sitting on coolers or in lounge chairs, talking politics, the hottest bands or the fish that got away. There’s usually a game of horseshoes to join and a friendly pup looking for a pat on the head or a bite of your hot dog. Sometimes, there’s even a band playing.

Stop by to relax, chat and maybe throw a few horseshoes. Just be sure to take your trash with you when you leave. Big Beach is located at Latitude 32.82485 Longitude -85.89079.

Wind Creek State Park Beach

With nearly 600 feet of water frontage, the beach at Wind Creek State Park offers the largest dedicated beach area at Lake Martin. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the swimming area offers a shallow entry that’s perfect for the kids, and the amenities include a plumbed bathhouse for quick changes and restroom visits. If you want to make a lot of friends fast, bring a volleyball. The net is already strung and waiting.

Adjacent to the beach is the park’s South Picnic Area, offering plenty of tables and several pavilions that help to turn a few hours at the beach into a full day of fun in the sun. Additional activities in walking distance of the beach include an old grain silo that can be climbed for a panoramic view of the area; a Lake

Wind Creek State Park is a great beach for family picnics and impromptu volleyball games

Martin themed putt-putt golf course; and tasty treats at the Creem at the Creek, which also offers canoes and paddleboats for rent. Or book an aerial adventure at the Wind Creek Ziplines.

In addition to the main beach, smaller beach areas are located on shorelines throughout the park. Several of these are in the picnic areas and are available on a day-use visit.

Access to the WCSP beach and picnic areas, silo, hiking trails and more is very affordable. Just $5 per person aged 12 to 61 to gain entry to the park for the day. Entry is $2 for kids 4 to 11 years of age and seniors aged 62 or more. The park is located on State Route 128 between U.S. Route 280 and State Route 63 in Alexander City.

Kowaliga Beach

If you dine at Kowaliga Restaurant, just off State Route 63 near Children’s Harbor in Elmore County, try to nab an outside table on or near the beach area, especially if you have children with you. The area is popular with turtles that rise to the surface to snack on dinner scraps thrown in their direction by curious diners. Many of the turtles are quite large – as much 15

inches to 18 inches in diameter, and it’s not unusual to see 10 or 15 during a late afternoon or early dinner on the restaurant porch.

The beach is furnished with a few patio tables and chairs that are perfect for sipping on a cocktail in the shade while waiting for a table.

While you’re at the restaurant, take a selfie with Kaw-liga, the chain-saw carved wooden replica of the Indian that inspired Hank Williams’ postmortem hit song by the same name. The song tells the tale of an Indian statue that once stood outside a store located in that same spot years ago. Kaw-liga fell in love with a statue of an Indian princess that resided across the road at another store, but his was an unrequited love, as neither statue had the means to move or speak.

D.A.R.E. Park Beach

The 30-acre D.A.R.E Power Park was established 6 miles west of Dadeville in Jacksons Gap in 1997. The drive to the park is picturesque, and amenities include public restrooms, pavilions and picnic tables with grills, an amphitheater, docks and a great playground, in addition to the beach. The park is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

feeding turtles

Kowaliga Beach is known for the Polar Plunge, as well as for

D.A.R.E. Power Park is owned and operated by Alabama Power in cooperation with the utility company’s license to operate Martin Dam. It was named by fourth grade students at four local elementary schools, who entered a contest to name the park.

Very near D.A.R.E. Power Park, a B-52 bomber crashed in Lake Martin during stormy weather on March 20, 1945, killing all three crew members aboard. It wasn’t until the early 1990s that the actual location of the submerged airplane was found by a hobby scuba diver who had dreamed since childhood of discovering the lost plane.

There are many more beaches at Lake Martin. Those on natural, undeveloped Alabama Power project lands are open to the public, including those on islands in the lake. Bring a grill, some beach chairs and a picnic basket, but please pack up all your trash and dispose of it properly. If you happen across an island beach where someone left too much trash for you to take out with your own, please report it at lmra.info. Some dedicated volunteers will come by to clean up the spot, so you can spend one idyllic day on an uncrowded, lakeside beach that will rival one you might find anywhere else.

DARE Power Park is now open every day through Labor Day

In addition to the beach, DARE Power Park also features the Double DARE You playground

Arti Gras

STORY BY BREANNA MANLEY & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

GGet ready to make your way to Russell Crossroads because the 12th annual Arti Gras is returning on July 1 and 2 on the Town Green. Artisans from across the Southeast will make the trip to set up shop and showcase handmade goods, and you won’t want to miss the vast selection of trinkets, gifts, Lake Martin décor and knickknacks. This annual event typically brings in about 60 vendors every year, and according to Russell Lands assistant marketing manager, Sydnee Riley, the same is expected for this year.

“We typically have about 60 vendors for each of our shows, and we’re expecting around the same amount this year. The Arti Gras applications just

opened on May 10, and vendors can apply until June 20,” Riley explained.

Though this show brings artisans and makers from all over the Southeast, there are plenty of local favorites who tend to participate, including John Denney and Jim Denney.

The Denney brothers are skilled when it comes to just about anything creative and love having their work on display at all three Russell Lands art shows.

“John and Jim Denney are local, and they can do printmaking, photography and painting. They typically come to all three of our shows throughout the year,” Riley said.

There’s no shortage of fine artisans ready to showcase their handmade work under the huge tents come the 4th of July weekend event. Visitors will find everything from jewelry to soaps, woodwork, lotions, furniture and more while moseying around the Town Green.

The success of the event is unmatched and benefits the vendors with the ability to promote their work.

“It’s a way for vendors to expand their reach and get their name out there. They’re able to promote their work and make connections with anybody who comes. It’s an opportunity for further commissions and purchases for the vendors,” Riley explained.

Whether you’re a vendor trying to expand your clientele or a customer looking for that unique, personal gift for someone special, Arti Gras is a funfilled event you won’t want to miss.

Arti Gras will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. the first weekend of July on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads.

For more information about Arti Gras, other shows and events, visit Russelllands.com and head over to the event page. There’s always something going on at Russell Crossroads.

Clockwise from Left: Metal sculptures and stained glass are among the offerings at Arti Gras; crowds of visitors browse the art under the tents; pottery is popular at the show; unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry goes quickly.

The Benjamin Lake Club

R

Russell Lands in mid-May announced plans to build a multi-use waterfront lake club on Lake Martin at their newest lakefront neighborhood, The Heritage. The Benjamin Lake Club will provide a wide variety of amenities to The Heritage property owners. The facility will be centrally located within the community and will enjoy an elevated view of a scenic Lake Martin cove surrounded by Heritage residential properties.

The facility will consist of a two-story clubhouse with meeting and event space, an owner’s bar, catering kitchen, fitness center, aerobic/yoga room and locker rooms. Adjacent to the clubhouse and fitness center will be a resort-style pool with a large covered and uncovered pool deck, poolside snack bar and lakeview terrace.

The Benjamin will include a beach, waterfront event lawns, firepits, amphitheater and community docks. Additional event lawns, eight tennis courts, eight pickleball courts and a tennis pro shop will be included on the upland portion of the clubhouse property.

The Heritage, with its 1,500 acres and 12 miles of shoreline, will provide approximately 250 waterfront and 150 water-access properties, said Tom Lamberth, Russell Lands’ CEO.

“We are excited how The Benjamin Lake Club will enhance the lifestyle and use of The Heritage,” Lamberth said. “The lake club will allow property owners a beautiful place to spend quality

recreational time with family, friends and neighbors.”

The Heritage community is also the location of the nearly complete Coore & Crenshaw-designed golf course. The course is the central feature of the private Wicker Point Golf Club. The Coore & Crenshaw team is arguably the world’s most sought-after design team, and Wicker Point Golf Club will be their first course in Alabama.

The lake club, which is an exclusive amenity for The Heritage, is planned as world-class as well. To ensure that quality, Atlanta-based architec-

ture firm, Cooper Carry, was selected to design The Benjamin. Their team, led by Pope Bullock, has extensive experience designing resort-style amenities.

The Heritage development was announced in 2021 with the first phase of residential property released in 2022. To date, 48 homesites have sold,

and the much-anticipated second phase is scheduled to be released this month.

Site crews will commence work on The Benjamin this summer with the completion and opening scheduled for spring of 2025.

Visit RussellLands.com for details regarding the next release of waterfront homesites.

Electric on the Lake

STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

EEV isn’t just for automobiles. At the Russell Marine In-Water Boat Show this spring, four electric watercraft made debut appearances at Lake Martin and garnered unprecedented attention from shoppers.

Todd Sims with Ingenity brought the EL Cruiser, a 23-foot production with an average 25 mile range. The 7,800-pound cruiser is powered by 2,000 pounds of batteries under the deck floor.

“It’s got 6,000 cells with a capacity of 126 kilowatt hours to power a 250 horsepower engine,” Sims explained.

Range, of course, depends on operation speed. The faster the ride, the shorter the trip. This boat wasn’t built to get somewhere on the lake fast, but for the serenity of the ride, Sims said.

“This boat was built with luxury comfort in mind. The fabrics are luxurious. There is a refrigerator onboard, and it has a high-end stereo, made all the better because there no motor noise,” he explained.

Though the EL Cruiser was not built specifically with conservation in mind, it does give a nod to the green, as it uses no fossil fuels.

“It’s the convenience factor. There’s no waiting in line at the fuel dock; no spills; no gas cans. Install a standard charging station on your dock and plug it in,” Sims said.

The boat is rated for a capacity of 10 people, a nice guest list for a sunset cruise. It even has a table that can be mounted in the cockpit area or the bow. One of the best things about it is the

The Hacker-Craft Aquavant Electric is the new wave in luxury sport boating

app,” he added. “Download the app to your phone, and it will pinpoint your location and read any error codes that might come up. Submit a trouble ticket and you can identify the problem – maybe you picked up some weeds that are blocking the intake –and you can do it all through your phone.”

The EL Cruiser launched in February 2022 in Miami and started shipping orders this year. The standard model is $329,000, but for $400,000 you could own the top-end model.

Ingenity is a sister company to Nautique, as well as Hacker-Craft, an all-custom luxury sport boat maker. Hacker-Craft partnered with Ingenity Electric to create a new classic on the electric boat scene.

The 27-foot Aquavant Electric Series Sport will hit a top speed of 30 knots, but cruising at 18 would offer a two- to three-hour tour with a range of about 30 miles. The prototype includes the Ingenity Connect app, so the operator would always know the status of the systems, the charge, temperatures, location and more.

Finely crafted, the Aquavant Electric features mahogany decking, platforms, dash and finishes, from drop-down glovebox cup holders to convenient and comfortable arm rests and cabinetry for glassware storage, as well as a sink and potable water system. The boat is equipped with digital instrumentation and an under-the-dash GPS unit. Options include a refrigerator and a premium stereo. Deck mounted stainless steel air horns are operated with a compres-

The Aquavant's interior is mahogany and teak

The EL Cruiser is the perfect ride for a luxurious cocktail cruise

sor unit. An underwater LED light system also is available.

The new Aquavant Electric Sport starts at around $600,000.

In addition to electric boats, Russell Marine also invited Lift to the show at The Ridge Marina the last weekend of April. Lift holds the U.S. patent on the technology behind a Bluetooth hydrofoil, an exciting board ride that is altogether independent of a boat. Lift rep Chad Taylor demoed two e-foils at the show, the 4-foot 2-inch carbon fiber Pro model and the 5-foot 4-inch Cruiser. The company also makes a 4-foot 9-inch carbon fiber sport model.

“The smaller board is the more aggressive, for the advanced rider. The Cruiser is the most stable, and it works for everybody, from the young kids to the 70-year-olds who still like to get on a board,” Taylor said.

The e-foil board operates with a remote Bluetooth controller, which throttles the speed up or down. The boards can be outfitted with a full range battery that is good for about a two-and-a-half hour ride, depending on riding style and speed. A light battery also is available and could be expected to provide an hourand-a-half of riding fun.

“Lake Martin was an awesome ride,” Taylor said. “It’s a great lake. With the long battery, you could ride all over the lake. It’s a quiet, brushless motor. Serene,” he said.

And it only takes about 15 minutes for a person to get the hang of the Lift e-foils, Taylor explained.

“Start out on your stomach with the board set at a slow speed, so the board stays on the water at first. Then, pull up on your knees, and when you find your balance, put your front leg up and get up smoothly, and you’ll be gliding across the water,” he said. “It’s different from if you were surfing or riding a board and being pulled by a boat because you put your weight forward rather than back. You bring the foil up by shifting the weight backward.”

Taylor said the company has produced videos about how to ride the board and offers lessons across the country.

“The most common question we get is – ‘Does the remote control float?’” Taylor laughed. “And yes, it does.

“If you fall off, we advise you to open your hand, so you don’t accidentally make it go faster. Turn the remote off, and it will glide to a stop.”

Some riders like to wear booties, and children and beginners often opt for a helmet. As a safety feature, the board will not operate at certain angles.

The fiberglass Cruiser model starts at $8,995, and Taylor said prices trickle up to the carbon fiber Pro model at $12,995. A variety of wings also are available to enhance maneuverability and speed. The boards also are available in a variety of colors.

“This is definitely not an old school air chair,” Taylor said.

The Cruiser's 2,000 pounds of batteries are stored under the deck

The new motors run quiet

Lift brought electric hydrofoil boards to play at the lake this spring

A makers mark showcasing works from artisans from the Lake Martin area and throughout the Southeast. Find homemade pottery, jewelry, photography, reclaimed wood décor, painting, metalwork, furniture, and much more!

Worth the Wait

STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

W

When Charlie and Erin Chesnutt visited friends at Lake Martin, they knew they had found the perfect location for a lake house. They purchased a townhome in The Ledges, and 10 years later bought a lot at South Ridge Harbor to build a custom home.

A Mitch Ginn design was perfect for the lot, and the couple hired Chad Sterns to build the house, but the COVID-19 pandemic hit just before they were ready to begin construction in December 2020. The timing could not have been worse, as everything from worker availability (due to coronavirus recovery) to needed supplies, appliances and windows became a problem. Erin Chesnutt, contributing writer for Lake and Lake Martin Living magazines, detailed their dilemma in the April 2022 issue of Lake , explaining the frustrating domino effect created by illness and supply chain collapse. They have been in their

home now almost a year.

The 3,400-square foot house includes four bedrooms, three baths and two powder rooms. A loft area above the main room became an office and extra sleeping space. A wine room and kitchenette are highlights of the lower level. The exterior color is Roycroft Bronze Green from Sherwin Williams. The trim is Urban Bronze. The main interior color is Ancient Marble, and all the interior doors are painted Chocolate Powder. Chesnutt chose a variety of subtle blues, greens and creams for the walls in different rooms, keeping the spaces coordinated, cool and comfortable.

The foyer is accessed through double arched doors, built with a composite material for easy maintenance. Vertical shiplap is used to accent the walls up to chair rail height throughout the main level living room, kitchen and dining areas. An iron and rope-wrapped chandelier hangs from

The homeowners selected South Ridge Harbor for their custom home

A stone fireplace with a raised hearth is the focal point in the living room.

A 12-foot by 55-foot porch offers a variety of sitting and living areas

the vaulted and trussed ceiling, and the floors are white oak.

Across the back of the house, windows and sliding doors allow an easy flow from the indoor living space to the back porch. A neutral-colored Ethan Allen sofa, along with two upholstered chairs and two leather chairs, are located comfortably near the stone fireplace with built-in cabinets and shelves on both sides.

Phil Spraggins, Alexander City designer, was called in to assist Chesnutt with arranging shelving décor, as well as placing the living room furniture. He sourced Oushak rugs for the living room, powder room and foyer and found artwork at Jes & Gray Living in Alexander City.

“We hired Maureen Derosuries, a kitchen and bath designer with Dining and Design in Atlanta that I had used before, and Brian Mock with Laser Line in Atlanta to build all the cabinets. I wanted to do something different in the house, some things I hadn’t seen at the lake. We also thought we might bypass some of the delays due to high construction demand at the lake,” Chesnutt said.

The creamy colors are carried into the kitchen and dining area in the cabinets and subway tile backsplash. Derosuries accented the backsplash

with a framed trellis-patterned green tile and used the same tile in the butler’s pantry. Polished Taj Mahal quartzite tops the island, which is painted Green Onyx. Countertops are leathered Taj Mahal. The dining table, chairs, bench and bar stools were purchased at Arhaus.

A loft area is accessed via a stairwell accented with the same vertical shiplap walls. The Chesnutts added an office and a sleeper sofa to the loft, which overlooks the living room.

The master bedroom and bath are on the main floor. The walls are painted Lullaby in the bath and Sleepy Blue in the bedroom. The dark stained bed, dresser and side tables, from Mark King Furniture in Alexander City, and a stately iron fandelier add elegance to the space. Sliding doors open to the back porch. The bath, separated from the room by a barn door, features Blue Shadow quartzite and a wavy tile in the shower. A unique freestanding tub filler beside the soaker tub is a favorite add for Chesnutt. Derosuries added extra custom cabinets and a closet to the bathroom for optimum storage.

The screened back porch is 55 feet by 12 feet, built with Douglas fir, and has three distinct gathering areas on the composite floor. The outdoor table is from American Backyards. The iron sofa

A green island and inlaid tile contrast beautifully with the white cabinets and countertops

The putting green keeps Charlie's game sharp

The dining area seats 10 guests

The wine room features a wine glass chandelier

Eight rocking chairs provide the perfect view from the lake level porch

The dock is kept shady under three umbrellas

The master bedroom opens onto the screened porch

and chairs were purchased from Southern Classics years ago and recovered for a new look, and the bed swing is from The Porch Swing Company. A cooking area just off the screened porch is near the kitchen.

Downstairs, the main space has a Thomasville sectional sofa, a large television and porch access. The console table was purchased from Doug Roberts at Storywood Fabrications. A kitchenette and bar with cabinets, custom made from a combination of Pennsylvania reclaimed maple, white oak, red oak and hickory, is a beautiful focal point, accented by Mont Blanc stone. A wine room with a bourbon tasting station and an iron gate are adjacent. Two bedrooms share a bath on one end of the house, and a second master suite is on the other end. Chesnutt chose Michelangelo quartzite for the downstairs master vanity.

“We love fandeliers, so we put one in every room that needed a fan, upstairs and downstairs. The wine glass chandelier in the wine room is one I have in my home in Atlanta currently – it is a favorite. The glasses slip out of the rack and can be used,” she said.

The porch outside provides easy dock and lake access on a flagstone path and steps. Chesnutt added eight Polywood rocking chairs to the downstairs level. She chose to use tile with a reclaimed wood look for the porch floor to make rocking smoother than flagstone would allow. A putting green on the side of the house keeps Charlie’s golf game sharp.

“We love Hilton Head and noticed that the traditional color for porch ceilings was blue, which is supposed to repel spiders. We used Haint Blue on this ceiling, and it really does work. We wanted party lights strung down here, and we put oscillating fans on the back wall,” she said.

Rockwork at the lake’s edge includes a firepit. The dock furniture is from the Lake Martin Mini-Mall, and three umbrellas provide lots of shade. On the dock, the Chesnutts installed a lamppost that can be controlled remotely from the house.

Now that the Chesnutts are finally in their new home, they drive from Atlanta to Lake Martin almost every weekend, enjoying life on the water in the space they created from scratch – after a great deal of patience was added to the mix.

The downstairs has a main room and a kitchenette

The wine room is behind an iron gate

A loft office overlooks the main living area

Imperial Moth

Imperial Moths usually go through two generations each year, with the eggs of the second generation emerging the following spring

NATURE OF THE LAKE

BY KENNETH BOONE

IIf you leave your garage or dock lights on at night during the warmer months, you might run into a big, beautiful yellow winged visitor.

The Imperial Moth is one of the largest moths that live in the Lake Martin area, and one of the most colorful. It has largely yellow and rusty red, pink, purple or brown patches, lines or spots, and there is lots of variation in the patterns. Females tend to be more yellow than males, which usually have larger patches of dark colors.

Imperial Moth coloring is remarkably similar to yellow and brown fallen poplar leaves, which some scientists think helps hide the moths from predators while they are reproducing, especially in autumn.

These moths, which go by the scientific name

Eacles imperialis , are quite large with a wingspan of 3 to almost 7 inches. Females are larger than males.

Imperial Moths are part of the giant silkworm family Saturniidae that also includes the more famous Luna Moth, but the Imperial Moth belongs to a closely related group called the royal moths.

An Imperial

Moth is actually the last, brief stage of life for an insect that spends most of its time as a caterpillar. It lives as a winged insect for less than a week and is mostly nocturnal. In fact, once they become moths, these insects have one solitary goal: reproduction. The moths have no mouth parts and cannot eat at all.

Once the moth emerges from its underground pupa before dawn, the females send out pheromones. Males, which have large, feather-like antennae, can

An Imperial Moth caterpillar can grow to a length of 5 inches

Photo by Owlcation

In its winged phase, the Imperial Moth lives less than a week

detect the pheromones from more than a mile away.

When a male follows this scent to its source that evening, the moths mate, and the female spends the remainder of her life in search of a host tree with leaves that will sustain her young.

Imperial Moths use a number of host trees that are likely growing nearby wherever you live: pines, oaks, hickories, walnuts, maples, sweet gum, sassafras and box elder, and less frequently choosing cedars, persimmons, beech, cypress and other trees.

The female Imperial Moth lays hundreds of flat, rounded eggs, placing between one and five on a single leaf. They do this time after time until they become exhausted and die.

Imperial Moth eggs hatch in about two weeks, and in the earliest stages, the young caterpillars are about half an inch long and have wicked looking spines. As they munch leaves, the caterpillars grow quickly and become fat, fleshy, brown or green caterpillars that are up to 5 inches long.

As they grow, they progress through five stages of growth called instars. After each molting, the caterpillars are larger and can look different with a variety of colorings. During the fifth instar, the fully grown green caterpillars have yellow spots along their sides with fine hairs.

At this stage, the caterpillars climb down the tree trunks and begin digging into the soil. They molt into a dark, reddish brown pupa that has a large, rounded end and a smaller, more pointed end with a small fork protruding from the tip. When it comes time to become a moth, the pupa uses the fork or

tiny claw to dig back up to the surface and the cycle begins again.

In our area, Imperial Moths usually go through two generations a year, with the first moths emerging in the spring and a second generation in the fall. Those that breed in the fall spend the winter underground before emerging as moths the following spring.

The big, fat caterpillars are preyed upon by a large number of birds, insects and other animals. As a result, a moth that lays hundreds of eggs may only have a handful of offspring that survive to mate and start the process again.

This species is unusual among the silkworm moths in that it does not spin a cocoon and instead burrows into the ground to pupate.

There are a dozen subspecies of Imperial Moths that have different native ranges, including lands from the Rockies to the Atlantic states and from Southern Canada into Mexico and South America.

Some people who touch an Imperial Moth caterpillar may feel a stinging situation or develop a rash when they come in contact with the caterpillar’s hairs. Otherwise, Imperial Moths pose no threats to people.

Some information for this article came from the North Carolina State Extension Publications, Butterflies and Moths of North America and A-Z Animals.

Female Imperial Moths tend to have more yellow in their wings

Lake values rise despite federal rate increases

IIf the Federal Reserve wants to fight higher real estate prices on Lake Martin, they are going to need more weapons than higher interest rates. Their current approach is having marginal impact to lake property values. According to data derived from the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service, property values are now higher than those from the same period last year.

When looking at market data, I prefer to look at the most recent 12-month period and compare it to the same period last year. The most recent 12-month period data at Lake magazine’s presstime ends April 30, 2023. The charts accompanying this article show data for one-year periods for each of the last 10 years as of April 30.

BY STEVE ARNBERG

According to the data, all lake property categories were higher than those from the same period last year.

The average sales price chart shows data for single-family waterfront homes. The recent data indicates average sales prices were higher (17.7 percent) than those from the same period last year. Charts for other categories are not included, but average sales prices for condos/townhomes were 10.8 percent higher, water-access homes were 16.2 percent higher, and waterfront lot prices were 56.6 percent higher than last year.

What is driving values

One might wonder what effect higher rates have had, if any, on the market. One thing is that inventory has been restrained due to drastically higher interest rates (see current active listings chart). I do not mean that developers and builders are building fewer homes due to higher rates. Their problem is that they can’t build homes fast enough due to labor and material shortages.

Instead of increasing inventory and lowering prices, higher interest rates have restrained inventory in a very surprising way. People have golden handcuffs holding them to their lake homes. Until January of 2022, most buyers were able to finance a lake purchase with 3 percent fixed mortgage rates. They could easily maintain their debt service and get to keep a lake place.

Owners who do sell would have to use the current

LAKE PROPERTY

higher-rate (6.5-plus percent) financing to acquire a replacement lake home. Unless they’re willing to make a higher payment, they would actually be downgrading their property to take a profit. That is a golden handcuff.

Less for sale equals less sold

The persistent low inventory has had a detrimental effect on overall sales. Unit sales (see units sold chart) are off significantly. A key driver in most markets is for property owners to sell their current property and leave the market; get something larger/smaller; or get a better location.

Agents are reporting that potential sellers cannot find replacement homes, so they are staying in place. Or, as noted above, the new higher rates have eroded their buying power. As the old salesman said, “You can’t sell what you don’t have.” No wonder agents are reporting multiple offers on newly listed properties.

Value of the market is still impressive

The last chart provided is the sales volume chart, indicating that the total value of the market is the third highest over the last 10-year period. While sales are fewer, the average price is at an all-time high. That equates to a very valuable market, the third best in the history of Lake Martin.

What to look for

If rates decrease in the next year or so, it stands to reason that more people will be able to afford a lake place. Also, people will again be able to trade up or down without the golden handcuffs, freeing up additional inventory. My guess, and I could be wrong, is that better rates along with pent-up demand, will support property value increases. The market for Lake Martin, as well as many other parts of the country, appears to be in good shape for the foreseeable future.

Steve Arnberg is Vice President Real Estate Sales for Russell Lands.

As I end my two-year term as the president of Lake Martin Homeowners and Boat Owners Association, I have tried to reflect upon the changes occurring with and around our Treasured Lake. I see many good things and some that cause concern. There is one common thread with all the changes. That is the participation by people of Lake Martin.

As I have stated in the past, I have spoken with many friends concerning the impact of Lake Martin on their lives. We all share similar stories. One friend told me she wakes up every day and thanks God for the beauty and nature of Lake Martin. It is truly a blessing.

Take a minute, think and reflect on how our Treasured Lake has affected your family and friends. Review in your mind all the memories you and your loved ones have shared while enjoy -

HOBO

BY HARRY DENEGRE

ing Lake Martin. The lake has brought my family and friends closer together over the years.

With the blessings of Lake Martin, it is our responsibility to preserve and protect the lake and to share it with future generations.

Some of the Associations around Lake Martin

n Lake Martin Homeowners and Boat Owners Association (HOBOs), lakemartinhobos.com

Lake Martin is changing. It will continue to change. As people who enjoy the lake, we can influence these changes. To have and exert influence, each of us must become active in one or more of the lake associations. At the very least, become a member of one of the associations and support that community’s efforts. These associations will keep you informed and allow your voice to be heard. If you can, become active in that association.

n Lake Watch, lakewatch.org

n Lake Martin Resource Association, lmra.info

Each Association has a different focus, but all work to preserve and protect Lake Martin. Please consider joining one of these associations.

After being president of Lake Martin HOBOs, I can tell you that representing many members does influence the powers that control the lake.

Don't underestimate your impact

The number of members matters.

There will be many issues facing Lake Martin over the coming years. We can influence the outcome if we have active membership. We are blessed with having this beautiful and outstanding Treasured Lake. Become a good steward of Lake Martin. It is all our responsibility.

Each association performs different functions for the lake community. I belong to three of them. I serve on two of their boards. Our members raise different issues, and the associations attempt to represent their memberships. These associations can only influence the powers that control the lake. These powers are the State of Alabama government, Alabama Power and Russell Lands.

As our Treasured Lake continues to be discovered and to evolve, more changes will affect the lake and surrounding communities. Industries will move in. There will be more development. How will this affect our lake? I don’t know the answers. I do know that I want to have some influence over how they affect our lake. I ask each of you to consider being involved and having influence.

As I step down from the role as president of HOBOs, I will remain on the HOBO board and will be active in all three of the associations. I want my voice heard about my concerns for our Treasured Lake. Please make your voice heard.

Harry DeNegre is president of Lake Martin HOBOs. Follow the Lake Martin HOBOs Facebook page and visit the website, lakemartinhobos.com.

SUMMERTIME IS A SPECIAL TIME, IS YOUR HEART HEALTHY?

Summertime means time on the water, time away from work, and more time with family and friends.

Make sure your heart is healthy and ready for the season with an appointment at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic at Russell Medical.

Kevin Sublett, MD, is board-certified in cardiovascular care and offers the latest in prevention, testing, and treatment for keeping your heart healthy.

Our clinic is backed by the knowledge and expertise of UAB Medicine, including:

• Advanced ultrasound testing

• Nuclear medicine imaging in fully accredited labs

• Management of cardiac rhythm disorders

• Interventional cardiology care

Our expanded clinical team is ready to serve you. Schedule a visit today by calling 256-234-2644.

Russell Cabins at The Willows, Verandas II • $1,095,000

Builder: Classic Homes • Beds: 4 Baths: 4.5 • Sq Ft: 2,396

Russell Lands

Rhonda Watson, Anna Speaks, Thomas Lamberth 256.215.7011 • RussellLands.com

Ridge Run, Bywater • $1,700,000

Beds: 3 • Baths: 4.5 • Sq Ft: 2,612

Russell Lands

Rhonda Watson, Anna Speaks, Thomas Lamberth 256.215.7011 • RussellLands.com

Beds: 4 • Baths: 4.5 • Waterfront

Lake Martin Realty

Ashley Chancellor 334.202.9017

LakeMartinRealty.com

1147 Willow Way N, Alexander City • $8,590,000

Beds: 11 • Baths: 12 • Waterfront

Lake Martin Realty India Davis 256.749.7592

LakeMartinRealty.com

Beds: 6 • Baths: 7 • Waterfront

Lake Martin Realty

Jan Hall 256.329.6313

LakeMartinRealty.com

Beds: 5 • Baths: 7 • Waterfront

Lake Martin Realty

John McInnish 334.415.2149

LakeMartinRealty.com

31

229

Way, Dadeville • $599,000

Beds: 3 • Baths: 3 • Water-Access

Lake Martin Realty

Judith Jager 205.789.0698

LakeMartinRealty.com

Beds: 4 • Baths: 3.5 • Waterfront

Lake Martin Realty

Damon Story 205.789.9526

LakeMartinRealty.com

34

Dadeville •

Beds: 3 • Baths: 3 • Water View & Access

Lake Martin Realty

Mimi Rush 334.399.7874

LakeMartinRealty.com

162 Village Circle, Dadeville • $389,000 Beds: 2 • Baths: 2 • Water-Access

Lake Martin Realty

Amy Duncan 256.212.2222

LakeMartinRealty.com

Lake

Jeff Cochran 256.786.0099

LakeMartinRealty.com

Beds: 5 •

4.5 • Waterfront

Lake Martin Realty

Becky Haynie 334.312.0928

LakeMartinRealty.com

240 West Ridge, Alexander City • $3,995,000

1137 North Ridge, Alexander City • $5,950,000

536 Russell Cabin Point, Alexander City • $3,375,000

Magnolia

Outboard Circle, Jackson’s Gap • $1,295,000

North Cardinal Heights,

$449,000

688 Luanne’s Way, Alexander City • $3,100,000 Beds: 5 • Baths: 6.5 • Waterfront

Martin Realty

519 Stillwoods Drive, Dadeville • $1,225,000

Baths:

Avoid processed foods

IIt is time to think about color. Spring was a time for renewal and awakening. Flowers began to bloom, and gardens were planted. Summer is all about an abundance of color seen in the landscape, in gardens, in our homes and at farmers markets. There is no better time to enjoy fresh fruit and vegetables than during the summer months. It is the perfect season to incorporate the freshest produce into meal planning while minimizing ultra-processed foods.

foods.

Prepackaged green beans, Brussel sprouts, carrots or broccoli with no additives or preservatives could be considered minimally processed. Processed foods are products to which oil, salt or sugar has been added before packaging, such as canned corn, tuna or beans. Ultra-processed foods are those that go through multiple processes, such as extrusion, molding or milling or foods that contain added ingredients and few nutrients and are high in sugar, fat or sodium.

The list of ultra-processed foods is quite long and includes soft drinks, chips, candy, ice cream, sweetened breakfast cereals, packaged soups, rice mixes, chicken nuggets, hot dogs and French fries. You can most likely guess that it is the ultra-processed foods (UPF) that need to be eliminated or reduced from daily diets.

HEALTHY LIVING

BY JULIE HUDSON

Processed foods have been a topic of discussion and a concern for several years. In the last few years, there has been more awareness and possible confusion about what defines processed foods and how they are different from ultraprocessed foods. The global food system has undergone a profound transformation when discussing technology and food processing by taking a big shift favoring highly processed foods for consumer appeal, competition and convenience.

A processed food, as the USDA defines it, is any food that has gone through changes from its original natural state. This includes washing, cleaning, milling, cutting, chopping, heating, pasteurizing, blanching, cooking, canning, freezing, drying, dehydrating, mixing or packaging. This definition includes almost every food available for purchase, which is why there is a three-level tiered system of looking at processed

There are numerous studies that show an association between diets high in UPF and poor health. These studies continue to show a correlation between UPF consumption and the prevalence of diabetes, heart disease, dementia, cancer and all-cause mortality. These studies are separate from looking at calories and obesity outcomes. A review of observational studies found that UPFs are associated with an increased risk of obesity, abdominal obesity, all-cause mortality, metabolic syndrome, cancer, irritable bowel syndrome, being overweight and a higher risk for cardiovascular disease.

In summary, eating whole foods is best, although not always possible. If you want to focus on feeding your body healthy options, choose foods with the least amount of processing. Taking advantage of farmers markets and planting your own personal garden can bring so much satisfaction as you create healthy salads, sides and meals.

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

Height of Summer Salad with Green Goddess Dressing

Green Goddess Dressing Ingredients

1/2 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh parsley leaves

1/3 cup sour cream

1/4 cup snipped fresh chives

2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh tarragon

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon minced or grated garlic

1/2 teaspoon salt

Freshly ground pepper

Green Goddess Dressing Directions

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth and a lovely shade of green. Cover and chill until needed.

Height of Summer Salad Ingredients

Mixed greens or lettuces

Heirloom cherry tomatoes

Hard boiled eggs

Carrots, scallions, celery

Grilled corn, cut off cob

Crumbled bacon

Cheese of choice

Avocado

Cucumbers, roasted beets, radishes and peppers

Chopped nuts and croutons

Salad Assembly

Start with a bed of greens and lettuces. Arrange toppings to your liking on top of the greens. If desired, top salad with grilled chicken, shrimp or salmon for the perfect summer entrée.

Grilled Zucchini with Burrata

Ingredients

1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

2 tablespoons olive tapenade

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

4 pounds medium fresh zucchini

2 teaspoons kosher salt

2 balls (8-ounces total) burrata cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves, minced

1/2 cup salted roasted almonds, coarsely chopped

Flaky sea salt for serving

Directions

Prepare dressing in a large bowl: whisk 1/3 cup of the olive oil, the tapenade and vinegar until combined. Preheat grill to medium high.

Slice zucchini lengthwise into 1/4-inch planks; then, gently toss to coat in kosher salt and remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Working in batches, grill planks, turning once, until lightly charred and tender, about 2 minutes each side. Toss grilled zucchini in the bowl of dressing until coated. Transfer to a serving platter. Use hands to tear open burrata balls and nestle in between the warm zucchini. Scatter parsley, oregano and almonds on top; then, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Broccoli Salad

Poppy Seed Vinaigrette Ingredients

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup white wine vinegar

Dash or two of red wine vinegar

1/2 cup canola or grape seed oil

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon poppy seed

1/2 teaspoon salt

Poppy Seed Vinaigrette Directions

Combine all ingredients in a jar with tight fitting lid. Shake until all ingredients combined. Refrigerate until needed.

Salad Ingredients

24 ounces fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-size pieces (about 7-1/2 cups)

1 cup dried low-sugar cranberries

1/2 cup chopped cashews

1/2 cup shelled salted sunflower seeds

1 apple of your choice, diced (I prefer Pink Lady, Gala or Honeycrisp)

1 pound or less of bacon, cooked and crumbled

Salad Directions

To make the salad, combine all ingredients in a bowl. Toss with dressing to taste and serve.

Mai Tai

CHEERS!

BY MARK GILLILAND

Ingredients

1.5 ounces Bacardi Superior Silver

.75 ounce Ferrand’s Dry Curaçao

.75 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed

.5 ounces orgeat

.5 ounce Appleton Estates Rum

Garnish with lime wheel and a cherry or whatever you like.

Directions

Add the white rum, Curaçao, lime juice and orgeat into a shaker with crushed ice and shake lightly. Pour into a double rocks glass. Float the dark rum over the top. Garnish with a lime wheel and a cherry.

When it comes to Tiki style cocktails none is more famous than the Mai Tai.

The origins of this classic is often disputed. Most give credit to Victor “Trader Vic” Bergeron at his bar in the 1940s. Others believe Donn Beach created this classic in the 1930s at his bar, Don the Beachcomber.

In either case, it is a balanced, refreshing, rum-forward cocktail. Cheers!

Mark Gilliland is the owner of Ocie & Belle's, a spirit driven bar that crafts cocktails we would want to drink in an atmosphere we hope you will enjoy at 48 Broad St. in Alexander City.

“Hey folks call or come see us today. We are located at 1965 Eastern Blvd. in Montgomery just across the street from Lowe’s. We have a huge inventory of carpet, vinyl, hardwood, laminate, luxury vinyl plank, ceramic and porcelain tile. We also do custom area rugs, countertops, blinds, and a variety of window coverings. We offer a “Low Price Promise” and professionally install everything we sell. Don’t pay too much or miss out on the great service at Georgia Floors Direct. We’ve been Flooring the River Region for Over 50 Years.”

Jeff Mallinson, Owner

Baklava with Bourbon Whipped Cream

Ingredients

1 package phyllo dough

2 pounds chopped nuts (we use almonds, pecans, walnuts ad cashews)

1 cup white sugar

1 cup brown sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 to 4 cups honey (use a good quality honey)

1 cinnamon stick

2 to 4 peels of orange, white pith removed

1 cup melted butter

Directions

Warm the honey with the cinnamon stick and orange peels. Do not boil. Once it warms up, remove from heat and keep for the end of baking. Take the first piece of the phyllo dough and lay it flat in a baking dish. Brush a good amount of melted butter all over the first piece. Place another layer of the phyllo dough on top and press down slightly. Do this step six more times for the first layer. You want seven to eight sheets of dough for your bottom. Make sure to butter every layer of dough. Place 2/3 cup chopped nuts in an even layer on top of the first set of dough. Repeat the layering of the phyllo dough on top of the chopped nuts. We use 4 to 5 sheets of phyllo dough for the middle section of the baklava. You should have three layers of the chopped nuts and four sections of the phyllo dough. On the last layer of phyllo dough, we use seven to eight sheets for the topping. Brush a generous amount of butter on the top and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Once the butter has hardened, cut the baklava into your desired shape and bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes (make sure the fan is turned off, or it will blow all your hard work around). Once the baklava reaches a golden brown, remove and drizzle the honey mixture all over. Let this sit for a couple hours. Baklava is best the next day when the honey has been absorbed.

Bourbon Whipped Cream Ingredients

3 to 4 cups heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 ounce bourbon of your choice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Combine all together and whip until firm peaks.

CHEF'S TABLE

Pete McKenny, General Manager and Executive Chef at SpringHouse Restaurant, trained at fourstar restaurants and Forbes four-star resorts in Ohio, Washington, Arizona and Vermont before returning to Russell Lands on Lake Martin, where he began his career as chef de cuisine at Willow Point Golf & Country Club 13 years ago.

BY PETE MCKENNY

Catch fish anywhere O

One of the comments anglers get from non-anglers is, “Why do you need so many fishing rods?” The best response I can give is that it’s similar to a golfer and their clubs. Golfers carry a bag of clubs, each designed for specific purposes. A driver is great for getting the ball down the course off the tee. Although it could be used for mid-range rough shots and putting, one would get laughed off the course to try such a feat. On the other end of the spectrum, grabbing a putter to do the job of the driver could be equally disastrous. And then there’s the irons. Each one designed for a different terrain or thickness, pitch angle, etc. I guess a good golfer could play a solid round with one wood, one iron and a putter and maybe even get away with just an iron and a putter. But the best golfers have a selection of clubs and know their own capabilities with each. They employ them based on the shot at hand and which one fits the situation best for them.

Rods and reels for fishing are similar to golf clubs in that certain ones are better for certain things. I’m often asked which rods/reels would be a good choice for a starting angler. Afterall, folks see a tournament angler with a pile of different rods on the deck, and from a distance, they all look about the same. It would be easy to get too in depth, but you could narrow it down to two setups that could catch fish anywhere in the country.

etc. Its greatest feature is power. A typical baitcaster is proficient with line sizes anywhere between 10-pound test and 30-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon. Since braided line has even smaller diameter, one could get away with casting up to 65-pound or even 80-pound braid on that same reel. We’ve discussed different line types and sizes before, but to get started with a baitcaster I’d recommend 12-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon for Lake Martin if I could only choose one.

Generally speaking, baitcasters can cast larger baits on larger lines with heavier action rods and have moving power to get the fish out and away from cover. With certain baits, a practiced angler has more control of the cast and even the splash the bait makes when landing compared to spinning gear, which is the other setup that an angler will likely need.

BIG CATCHES

BY GREG VINSON

First is a baitcasting setup. A baitcaster usually has a flattened or round appearance on the top of the rod. Most of today’s baitcasters have more of an oval or elliptical shape on the sides. The telltale feature is a thumb bar adjacent to an exposed spool of line. When the thumb bar is pressed, the spool is free to spin as line comes off. For some reason, the word “cantankerous” comes to mind when describing most people’s first experience with a baitcaster. The thumb is used to feather the line as it feeds off during the cast and to stop the spool as the bait lands. The baitcaster is renowned for backlashing, but with practice, an angler could put a bait in a spot with precision and have some power to back it up when the strike and fight ensues. The best all-purpose rod action for a beginner is a medium heavy. In today’s rods, a 7-foot medium heavy (MH) is a great start.

Although learning to use a baitcaster can be an early challenge, there’s a reason that it’s the most common choice for avid bass anglers, striper anglers,

If a baitcaster is more powerful and can even have more control, why would an angler need anything else? The answer is finesse. Lake Martin is a prime example of a finesse fishery. Most of the lake, and most of the time, the water is relatively clear. When visibility in the water increases, it’s usually a good practice to decrease line size. The same goes for bait selection. In clear water, smaller baits can be more productive, and at some point, the bait size and line size are so small that the baitcaster becomes inefficient. That’s when the spinning setup takes over.

It’s a lot like the putter, once the golf ball finally reaches the green. Good golfers know that getting to the green is only half the battle. Once the ball reaches that area, the green becomes a course of its own and has to be tackled with the finesse of good putting skills. I know from what little golfing experience I have that putting is often what separates the really good golfers from hackers like myself.

A spinning reel (often referred to as an open-face reel) is mounted on the underside of the rod. The rod doesn’t have a trigger because base of the reel sits between the ring finger and the pinky when held. This gives the angler leverage to cast, work a bait and set the hook. A spinning reel is most recognized by the bail that revolves around the spool. To cast, the angler holds the line on the end of the trigger (pointing) finger and flips the bail over to free the line. When a bait is cast with a spinning reel, the spool doesn’t have to turn. The line just flies off the spool

freely. This trait allows smaller/lighter baits to be cast greater distances unimpeded by a spool. Since there’s no rotating spool to worry about, backlashes are not much of an issue. That’s a welcome trait for early and experienced anglers alike.

Spinning gear has its limitations, primarily with line size. The smaller the diameter line, the less memory or stiffness it has, the result being that small line flies off the spool easily. Line twist can be an issue, too. Line twist will cause the loose line to coil up and even form a knot when the twist gets bad enough. Larger line will cause this problem more frequently.

For a first spinning setup, I recommend a 6-foot 6-inch to 6-foot 10-inch medium or medium light spinning rod and a 3000 series reel. An 8-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon is a great choice for most applications, but spinning reels are proficient with anywhere between 4-pound and 12-pound test. With braided line, an angler can use anywhere between 10-pound and 40-pound test.

The best combination of late is using a main spool of braided line for reduced stretch and twist with a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader for less visibility. When doing this, be sure to have about 30 feet of mono or fluoro on the spool before attaching and spooling the rest of the spool with braid. A main line of 15-pound braid, like Seaguar Smackdown,

and a 6-to-20-foot leader of mono or fluoro, like 8-pound Seaguar Invis-X, allows the angler to enjoy the low stretch and low memory properties of braid and have that low visibility advantage at the business end where the bait is attached. To splice the braid and leader knot together, see some of the info online about the double uni, alberto or FG knots. I personally like the FG, but it’s also the most difficult to tie. In the end, anglers must make bait selections that match the conditions they may face that day. Often, selections could include a multitude of baits that, depending on size, shape, etc., are best with a certain line and rod action. If the conditions call for larger baits, heavier cover, and so on, more baitcasters may be required. If the conditions are more suited for smaller baits and line, the spinning setups get the call. The best approach is having multiple rods rigged for various situations. And so, the deck of the boat or the rod box becomes the “club bag” in golfing terms. With time, practice and experience, you’ll get the feel for what rod/reel works best for your favorite baits and presentations.

Greg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on the Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour. He lives in Wetumpka and grew up fishing on Lake Martin.

Frankly, it doesn’t matter if you fade or draw the ball, but to play the game fairly well and get the most out of your game, you need to aim properly. To score well, you should have a good idea of how far you hit each club, but you also should consider the distance in the curvature of your fade or slice.

Don't lose par over a peak at the pin F

at the flag. They have their plans, and they swing toward the edge of the building and watch the ball start on that line and then fade onto the intended spot, setting up a birdie putt.

Is this commitment easy? Heck no.

First, figure out how much your ball curves from left to right on the practice tee with each of your clubs. Your lower irons (sand wedge, pitching wedge, 9-iron) will not curve as much as your longer irons (hybrids and woods) because of the increased loft on the shorter clubs, which create more backspin than sidespin. So, your 9-iron may fade 6 yards, and your driver may fade up to 20 yards. Once you know your curvature distances, as well as your carry yardage, you have half the battle won.

LOVE of the GAME

Now, get aimed properly. Imagine you’ve driven the ball into the fairway, and you have calculated that you will need to hit a 7-iron to be pin high. Decide if this is a pin location you should or shouldn’t go hunting for. Let’s say your best decision is to land the ball 10 feet to the right of the flag.

BY DAVE JENNINGS

Most everyone will want to steal a peak at the pin or cut corners and forget to align to the target. Practice this alignment method when you have some extra time on the course or practice tee. Focus on your starting point. Do this on every shot, and you will soon reap the rewards.

Together, knowing the amount of curvature your golf ball makes and your distances, proper alignment and focusing on your start line, your statistics in greenshit-in-regulation numbers should increase. When this happens, you should have more birdie opportunities. That’s never a bad thing.

Have fun and get the most out of your game. If you need help, ask for it. Ask a golf professional – not your husband and not your 23-handicap playing partner.

See you on the tee.

From your time on the practice tee, you learned that your 7-iron fades about 12 yards in the air. Find something behind the green that is approximately 12 yards left of the spot where you want to land your golf ball. Let’s just say that’s the left edge of a building. Then, find a lead, an old divot or any spot about 3 feet in front of your golf ball on the line toward the edge of that building. Aim the clubface of your 7-iron so it faces this spot and see in your mind’s eye an imaginary line from this aiming spot to your ball. Place your feet, hips and shoulders in a parallel position to that imaginary line, with your shoulders being the most important of the three body components. You are now in alignment and have a good chance of hitting your fade to your intended spot.

A blunder usually happens to golfers at this point, ruining a perfectly solid plan. Rather than looking back up at the edge of the building on the swing, most golfers peak and focus on the flagstick.

Nooo! This will usually cause you to swing toward the flagstick, making the ball start too far to the right. Along with your fade, you will have missed another green altogether.

The more seasoned golfers would never look back

Dave Jennings is the owner of Jennings Golfhelp LLC. Email him at djenn47495@ gmail.com or visit Jenningsgolfhelp. com.

Lake Martin

Kowaliga Marina 334-397-1210

The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

River North Marina 256-397-1500

Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700

Real Island Marina 256-397-1200

Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

Alex City Marine 256-215-FISH

Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793

SpringHouse 256-215-7080

Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

Lake Martin Pizza 256-373-3337

The Burritos Corner Mexican Grill 256-307-1887

Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075

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

Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

Kowaliga Whole Health 334-857-1816

Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847

Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717

Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293

Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820

Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc 334-857-2443

First Baptist Church

256-825-6232

Lake Magazine Distribution

ALEXANDER

Robinson Iron

A & M Plumbing

Carlos

The Body Shop

Walgreens

CITY

Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture

Longleaf Antique Mall

Playhouse Cinemas

Chamber of Commerce

Winn Dixie

Re/Max Around the Lake

Ridge Marina

HACKNEYVILLE

Hackneyville Water Authority

NEW SITE

Piggly Wiggly - New Site Foodland

DADEVILLE

Lakeside Mercantile

Walnut Hill

Chuck's Marina

Deep Water Docks

Lake Martin Pizza

CAMP HILL

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

Jake's

Moore Wealth Management

Carlisle's

Emporium Wine

Cloud Nine

Downtown Girl

Shay Aesthetics

JR'S

Hillabee Towers

Senior Nutrition Center

Noel Boone

George Hardy

First Realty

Dark Insurance

Warren Appliance

MainStreet Family Care

Grace's Flowers

Koon's Korner

Larry's General Merchandise

Daylight Donuts

Alfa

Valley Bank - 280

Pricare

Temple Medical

AllState

BB&T Bank

Hometown Pharmacy

Lake Martin Home Health

Allen's Food Mart (Exxon)

Karen Channell - State Farm

Insurance

North Lake Condo

River Bend Store

River North Marina

Lake Martin Building Supply

Petro

Sho'Nuff BBQ

Hair Design

City Hall

A&E Metal Regions Bank

Marathon - 280

Renfroe's Market

Russell Medical Center

Russell Marine Boating and Outdoors

Koon's II

Tallapoosa Ford

Dylan Johnson - Country Financial

Holley's Home Furniture

Jackson's Drugs

Selling Lake Martin - Amy Clark

The Sure Shot Shell - 280

Big B Bar-B-Que

Russell Do It Center

Russell Home Decor

Holman Floor

Satterfield Inc.

Grain & Leaf, Bottles & Cigars

Tippy Canoe

Love Lake Martin Real Estate Office

Wind Creek Gate

Wind Creek Store

Willow Point Office

Willow Point Country Club

Smith Marina on Lake Martin

Nails

Kowaliga Marina

Kowaliga Restaurant

Children's Harbor

Catherine's Market

Russell Lands Corporate Office

Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center

SpringHouse Restaurant Ridge Club

Chamber of Commerce

Raining Dogs Studio & Gallery

Root 49 Salon

Ellaby Boutique, LLC

Alabama Power

Siggers

Siggers Barbershop

Fusion Cafe

Dadeville Library

At the Beauty Shop

Dadeville Courthouse

Payne's Furniture

PNC Bank

Valley Bank

McKelvey Chevrolet

Renfroe's Market

Foshee's Boat Doc

Lakeshore Pharmacy

Russell Building Supply

Lakay's

Tallapoosa Nutrition

Sweet Pickins

Century 21 - Rhonda Gaskins

Farmers & Merchants Bank

Jim's Pharmacy

Poplar Dawgs

Still Waters Country Club

Still Waters Home Association

Russell Lands Realty

Fuller Realty

Harbor Pointe

Oskar's

Aronov Realty Lake Martin

Creekside Lodge

Blue Creek Marina

Lakeside Marina

Niffers

Hwy 50 Eagle

Millstone Japanese Maple Nursery

Link Gas Station

KELLYTON

Five Star Plantation

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart

Southern Star

Parker Creek Marina

Charles Borden

ECLECTIC

Lake Breeze Realty

Offshore Marina

Lake Martin Mini Mall

Corner Stone Coffee Co.

Lake Martin Dock Company

Cotton's Alabama Barbecue

Russell Do It Center

Johnson Furniture

WOW Catering LLC

Eclectic Library

Real Island Marina

Anchor Bay Marina

Wetumpka

Wetumpka Herald Office

Tallassee

Marathon

Tallassee Eagle

Tallassee Chamber

Parris Mullins Jr. O.D.

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Barnett

Rhonda Jaye

John McInnish

Michelle Brooks-Slayman

Parting Shot

Photo by Kenneth Boone

"The time to relax is when you don't have time for it."

~ Sydney J. Harris