Lake Martin Living July 2018

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

Cabin built on memories

Hot Rod Tour Double D Animal Rescue Fresh Figs July 2018

www.lakemartinmagazine.com

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From the Editor’s Desk

T

he nice thing about July is that, after the feverishly busy holiday on the 4th, the calendar holds fewer agenda items than any one of the last three months. April started the stress with Easter gatherings, gardening and planning the summer; May was crazy with school programs, Mother’s Day, graduations and Memorial Day; June took crazy to the insane level with Sun Festival, Jazz Fest, Father’s Day, art festivals and more, but July …

Ah, July! When the first week is over, so is the frenzy, and July offers an opportunity to catch our collective breath; spend a little relaxation time with family and friends and pursue some things that just plain interest us.

Take a little time to reflect on that fireworks frenzy on page 10 of this issue of Lake Martin Living magazine and savor the great time that it was.

The fireworks were just incredible this year. The weather was perfect, and the fun went on and on and on.

Denise and Wayne Lewis will spend July gazing at their pond from chairs on the porch of their true log cabin in Coosa County. The family built the cozy retreat on land that’s been in the family for three generations, and they loved being there so much that they recently made the move to live in the country full time. Turn to page 34 for a glimpse of what relaxation really looks like to spur your own relaxation inspiration.

Then check out Debbie Vopali's rescue operation in Dadeville on page 22. Vopali and her late husband Deano founded a large animal rescue facility to save horses that had nowhere else to go, and when Deano died unexpectedly last year, the farm rescued Debbie as well as the 10 horses that call the facility home.

We’ve been doing a lot of reflecting here at TPI in recent weeks. Mitch Sneed, the managing editor of the company’s five newspapers, was killed in a car accident at the end of last month, and his passing was noted by journalists across the Southeast who had worked with him over a career that spanned several decades. Mitch was an icon in the newspaper world.

He covered the news like a model journalist, something few reporters achieve. One thing Mitch did in his rarely exercised off-time was admire and fix up vintage cars. He loved the hot rods, so this month, we joined the Hot Rod Power Tour on their stop at Wellborn Musclecar Museum in Alexander City on page 28, as a nod to our colleague – and an invitation to browse the museum yourself in these lazy days of summer.

They won’t last long. When the next issue of Lake Martin Living magazine hits the racks, the kids will be back in school and getting ready for the first pep rally of the new football season. So pour a tall glass of lemonade or iced tea, find a comfortable chair in the shade and make the most of July.

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor

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Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Assistant Magazine Editor Amy Passaretti Contributors Dave Jennings Luke Robinson Sidney Hancock Cliff Williams Donald Campbell Scott Blake Lizi Arbogast Suellen Young Lonna Upton Magazine Distribution Manager David Kendrick Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Shelley McNeal Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Katie Wesson Carter Singleton Scott Hardy Marilyn Hawkins Kat Raiford Jaylan Reynolds Jessica Ware Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com

Lake Martin Living is published monthly

by Tallapoosa Publishers Inc. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and submissions are welcome. Please address all correspondence, including story ideas, letters, pictures and requests, to: Editor, Lake Martin Living, P.O. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com. Advertising inquiries may be made by calling 256-234-4281. A limited number of free copies are available at local businesses and subscriptions are $25 annually.

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ON THE COVER

The Canadian elk featured is only one of more than 30 mounted trophies in Wayne and Denise Lewis’ Coosa County log cabin.

The couple has filled their home with memorabilia, not only with trophies from hunting trips, but with antiques and mementoes from their families’ histories.

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Fireworks lit up the night sky across the area on July 4.

Photo by Kenneth Boone

IN EVERY ISSUE FEATURES

9. AROUND THE AREA

10. STAR SPANGLED FOURTH P atriotic pride filled the community

16. GARDEN TALK

22. DOUBLE D ANIMAL RESCUE A forever home in Jacksons Gap

41. MONEY MATTERS

28. WELLBORN WELCOMES HOT RODS Power Tour brings enthusiasts to town

44. OH SNAP!

34. FILLED WITH MEMORIES Cabin in Coosa reflects times of the past

20. FROM THE TEE 42. FAB FINDS 52. LAKE REGION EVENTS 62. THE LAST WORD

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AROUND THE AREA

Robinson makes a difference in school Pam Robinson has influenced many aspects of the Benjamin Russell High School athletics program, so it's no surprise she was selected to receive the Alabama High School Athletic Associations’ 2018 Making a Difference Award recipient.

Even as the athletic director, a longtime softball coach and recently retired volleyball coach after two decades, when Robinson received the call telling her she had been selected as the award recipient, she was blown away.

“When they called me, I was overwhelmed,” she said. “It was very humbling ... to even be nominated, much less selected.”

The Making a Difference Award is given to one individual from each of the seven classifications who goes above and beyond their normal duties to make a positive impact in their schools

Pam Robinson, BRHS

and communities. It can be given to a coach, teacher or administrator.

“The recipients in this 2018 Making a Difference class are excellent examples of men and women who take their positions as role models for their students, faculty and community very seriously,” AHSAA Executive Director Steve Savarese said in a press release.

“This award is the most important honor a professional educator in our state can receive. Characteristics considered for this prestigious award include the recipient’s character, integrity and service, all of which have enabled these individuals to have a lifechanging impact on the community or school where they serve.”

Robinson was among two principals, three athletics directors and two coaches who were selected for this year’s award. ~Lizi Arbogast

First Builders Ball More than 70 people gathered at Ballard Farms last month in support of Habitat for Humanity.

The inaugural Builders Ball fundraiser was held by the local organization and included music from the River Bottoms Blues Band and copious amounts of pulled pork.

Area Director Larry Bates reminded the crowd the mission of Habitat for Humanity and told them the local group is working on its 16th house for a family in need.

One of the house receipients was on site to discuss her experience with the process and what Habitat means.

Bates said he hopes this becomes Local Support an annual event that will grow to Habitat for Humanity become a good source of funds to hosted its inaugural continue the organization's work. fundraiser at Ballard ~Donald Campbell Farm last month.

Demolition Under Way

Crews from Roy Granger's Regeneration LLC have been on the site of what was the new No. 1 Russell Building along Central Blvd. and Highway 280. They are dismantling some of the extensions to the building, which is now owned by Saucier Investments LLC. Materials are being sorted and stacked for salvage.

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STAR SPANGLED FOURTH PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS, BETSY ILER AND KENNETH BOONE

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F

ireworks filled the air. Boats and golf carts were decked out in red, white and blue. Residents danced the night away and jammed out to music. It was a July 4th full of celebration across the community.

It started June 30 with the annual Hackneyville Fireworks Show, which has become one of the most highly anticipated events of the summer. For the sixth year in a row, the volunteer fire department hosted vendors, musical entertainment and fellowship.

Then on July 3, the grounds of Benjamin Russell High School and its surrounding streets were covered with families eagerly awaiting a performance from Finding Favour, 49 North and Vy Moon. The Marshall Street Church of God hosts the annual Alexander City Celebrate Freedom event.

The following day was filled with parading boats decked out in patriotic gear on Lake Martin as the Russell Marine annual boat parade swarmed the waters between Kowaliga and Children’s Harbor. On land, the annual Blue Creek parade of festive golf carts and ATVs made its way from the point on Olana Drive to Niffer's throwing candy and trinkets to spectators.

The July 4th holiday wrapped up with the Southeast's largest fireworks display at the Lake Martin Amphitheater with performances by The Bank Walkers and Grains of Sand Band.

Concertgoers twisted, danced and hula-hooped the night away celebrating our country’s independence.

Patriotic Pride

Clockwise from bottom left: Some 20 vehicles annually participate in the Blue Creeks parade the morning of July 4; Fireworks lit up the night sky in Alexander City July 3; The Statue of Liberty is a popular costume for the Russell Marine boat parade; The Wilson Brothers Band rocked the stage in Hackneyville June 30.

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Celebrate Freedom

Top to bottom: The Hackneyville Fireworks Bash kicked off the week of holiday events; Finding Favour headlined the July 3 annual Alexander City Celebrate Freedom event; The 40th annual Russell Marine boat parade boasted red, white and blue on vessels and their crews; Crowds gathered early on the grounds of Benjamin Russell High School to see the fireworks.

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Festivities Around Town

Clockwise from top: Boats lined the path from Kowaliga to Children's Harbor to witness the annual boat parade and cheer on their favorite themed entries; Ella Langley opened for The Wilson Brothers Band at the Hackneyville Fireworks Bash; Residents in golf carts and ATVs lined the streets in Dadeville from Olana Drive to Niffer's showcasing their patriotic spirit.

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Southern Staple Grow your own figs for year-round consumption

F

resh figs are a Southern staple, and they are not easily found in grocery stores. These trees are simple to grow and in a short time, just one or two of these beautiful trees could provide all of the fresh figs a person could want.

The most important key to a large fig harvest is sunlight. To get proper fruit set and ripening, plant trees in a spot that receives significant to full sun exposure. If a fig tree gets too much shade, it may still produce fruit, but that fruit may not ripen and will be dropped from the plant.

Figs are self-fruitful, so one fig tree could produce fruit on its own; however, there are many different fruit colors, shapes and flavors to consider when selecting a fig variety. The varieties also differ in their harvest times but will always range from July to September. To extend the harvest season, pick at least one early-, midand late-variety. Fruit colors could range from blush to purple to green.

Ripe fruit will be slightly soft, fully colored and will typically bend over at the neck from its heavy weight.

Avoid ripping the neck of the fig off when harvesting. Fresh fruit with breakage will not last as long in the fridge.

Wear gloves and long sleeves while harvesting to avoid skin irritation. After harvest, figs secrete a white, milky sap that contains latex. Figs harvested too early will secrete more sap than a ripe fig. They will also be bitter and dry if eaten.

There are a few different tactics to Varieties of Figs deter animals from Previous Page: Figs can range in color from blush to eating your figs: n Be diligent about purple to green; Above: The fruit is self-fruitful. harvesting daily or even twice a day.

Garden Talk

n Cover trees with netting. n Tie strips of reflective scare tape in the trees, just as the figs begin to ripen. The tape will blow in the wind and catch the sunlight to deter birds. Note that this may only be effective for a short time. n Selecting a fig variety like Green Ischia, which has green fruit when fully ripe, could help camouflage the fruit from birds amongst the green leaves.

Mature fig trees will grow to be between 15 to 30 feet tall and almost as wide. They Sidney Hancock need plenty of space between the trees and any buildings or structures located nearby.

Planting sites should have well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Fig trees need 1 to 1-1/2 inches of water weekly during the summer. If the grass around trees is wilted in the heat, the fig tree needs some water as well. Ideally, the pH should be 6-6.5. Figs are excellent plants to grow in containers if there is less space.

Prune the fig trees during winter dormancy to remove dead, diseased, broken or crossing branches.

Pruning to bush form will allow the fruit to grow within reach and will be easier to pick. Keep the center of the trees open for maximum sunlight penetration.

In late winter, select six to eight vigorous, widely

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spaced shoots to keep and serve as the fruiting leaders.

All other shoots could be removed at this time. The leaders should be far enough apart to grow 4 inches in diameter without crossing or touching the leaders on either side. To promote branching on second-year or older plants, head back the bush each spring by removing one-third to one-half of last year’s growth.

Continue to prune out low-growing lateral branches and shoot growth that will not be needed to replace a damaged leader. When pruning, always cut back to a bud or a branch. Leaving an unproductive stub will cause rot and decay that can spread to other parts of the plant.

Remove unripe fruits from the trees in the fall. Those fruits would have a difficult time ripening before the plant goes dormant. Regularly clean up any leaves or fruit that fall to the ground to avoid pests and disease.

Removing plant debris will help to reduce fig rust, fruit souring and other leaf blights.

Properly following these seasonal steps to maintain a fig harvest will guarantee maximum healthy growth.

Happy gardening!

Year-round Upkeep

Fig trees can grow to be between 15 and 30 feet and just as wide and need to be pruned back for maintenance.

~ Sidney Hancock is farm manager at New Water Farms in Dadeville.

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Teach 'em young Junior golfers should get an early start on learning the game

S

ummer is here, and junior golf tournaments are being played everywhere around the country. I am amazed when I think back to my junior golf days (yes, cars were invented then).

There were only a handful of golf tournaments for kids 16 years old and younger for us Alabama boys to compete in. There were hardly any girls’ tournaments, with the exception of the State Junior. Today, this is a different story altogether.

When Google searching junior golf tournaments or tours, yields several hours’ worth of research and options. It is vital to have junior golfers become involved in these tours or tournaments should they have aspirations of playing college golf. It is only through tournament play that college coaches recruit players. I’ve been asked a thousand times, “What age should I start my son or daughter in competitive golf?”

The answer is, as soon as possible.

It takes time for youngsters – or anyone for that matter – to become accustomed to competitive golf.

The sooner youngsters learn the ropes, the sooner they will decide if competitive golf is the route they want to go.

I just returned from the Future Masters Junior Golf Tournament that is played at Dothan Country Club at the end of June every year. In my opinion, this is the best junior golf event we have in Alabama. Kids from across the globe come to Dothan for this tournament.

The field usually fills up by early March, and young players need to accompany their entry forms with reference letters from accomplished golfers or impressive resumes to be accepted.

Many tour professionals have won this tournament, including Alexander City’s own Lee Williams in 2000.

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The Future Masters lasts all week long and is divided into age groups beginning with golfers 10 years old and younger. It is amazing what these youngsters shoot to win this tournament.

The second most popular prestigious junior event in the state is the Alabama State Junior Championship, which will be played in Foley, Alabama, this year at GlenLakes Golf Club. The State Junior and Future Masters are my favorite recruiting tournaments, but I always visit some Southeastern Junior Golf Tour events as well. The SJGT is a wonderful tour for aspiring adolescent golfers. Its tournaments are multiple-day events, and they are normally played on some of the South’s better golf courses.

As a child, I was fortunate in that both of my parents played and loved the game of golf. My dad was an extremely good player and competed on the University of Iowa Golf Team until his junior year in college.

During this time, Pearl Harbor was bombed and World War II began.

My father chose to join the United States Marine Corps, but throughout his 30-year career as a USMC fighter pilot, he maintained a sharp golf game. At the age of 5, I idolized my dad and wanted to spend as much time with him as possible. Beginning at the age of 6, my parents finally began taking me to the golf course, and the game quickly found a spot in my heart. I loved the art of the golf swing and a solid shot.

The mental game and strategy of managing your way around the course drew me to the sport, but it’s the assumed integrity between golfers that I really respect.

Heck, you call penalties on yourself? Yes sir, that’s what we do. If we screw up, we’ll slap our own hand.

From the Tee

When starting as a young golfer, I finesse, but on the college and professional recommend a short series of maybe five circuits, golf has turned into a power game. individual lessons to cover the very basics The short game of chipping, pitching, of the grip, stance, golf swing, chipping bunker play and putting are still crucial to and putting with a qualified teaching good scoring. professional. This will help immensely.

Engage young golfers in learning how to If a parent is not a qualified golf get the golf ball into the hole from 30 yards instructor, don’t try to teach the basics. I quickly with up-and-down drills. Have don’t intend to sound brash, but no one them become confident in making 3-, 4would want me to train today’s Air Force and 5-footers. Have them chip to various pilots how to fly. A parent’s time spent in distance targets to generate the feel. Have encouragement, sharing information on them learn to hit high, soft shots and low, the rules of the game, integrity, etiquette running shots on demand. When they and related topics will be so much better begin to play, allow them to swing as hard served. as they can, while maintaining balance, Dave Jennings Take children out on the course and because this can always be dialed back play one-on-one. Let them tee off from the later. shortest tees available. Initially, don’t let I asked a friend of mine who coaches at the scorecard’s par matter, but be sure to let children a major university if he was recruiting a young player know that the sooner they get the ball in the hole, the who we both knew. He mentioned the young man had better. not played in many golf tournaments and went on to In a very short time, par will matter. My first say, “If he nor his parents are willing to invest in his recollection of scoring was at the age of 7. My dad told golf game, why should I?” me to consider every hole a par 5 and to try to break Food for thought ... par. Much earlier than expected, I was shooting in the mid-80s. ~ Dave Jennings is the men's golf coach for Central The game of golf has evolved quite a bit since the Alabama Community College. mid-1980s. The game was once considered to be one of

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Double D Animal Rescue Jacksons Gap sanctuary provides a forever home for large animals

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STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & PHOTOS BY SUELLEN YOUNG

ebbie and Deano Vopali had a dream to provide land, comfort and a forever home to large animals in need on their property in Jacksons Gap. When Deano passed away last fall, construction was halted, and the opening of Double D Animal Rescue was delayed.

Now, with the help of her son, brother and some family friends, Vopali has a new barn, with more than 6,000 feet of fencing around grassy pasture and shaded trees where her 10 horses and two donkeys thrive.

The large sanctuary is located on land that houses American Watersports off Highway 280, and Vopali has big plans for its future.

“As soon as this barn fills up, we’ll start building another one. There was no shelter for large animals in the area, and I won’t turn away any animals in need,” said Vopali.

With nearly 14 acres in total, she said, there is plenty of room to grow the rescue business, and she hopes to be able to take in other animals down the road, including cows, goats and alpacas. In Vopali’s mind, there is no limit to the In Memorian number of animals she is Top: The most stubborn horse willing to care for. that came to the farm was “I grew up around horses named after the late Deano and always rode on and off Vopali; Right: Debbie Vopali treats her 10 horses and two throughout my life. These donkeys like children. animals are like my kids,” said the Georgia native.

When she saw the numbers of abused animals online that didn’t have places to go or owners that could no longer care for them, Vopali and Deano knew they had to step up. Some horses come to her famished, sick and afraid of people, but with the help of Dr. 22 Lake Martin Living

Randy Plaisance from Castaway Vet Clinic in Eclectic, she nurses them back to health and makes them comfortable with humans.

“I only take the animals in after a check up from the vet to make sure they won’t make other horses sick. All of them on site are now up to date with shots, testing and in good health,” said Vopali.

The first two animals Vopali and Deano rescued together were donkeys named Pixie and Cassie. The donkeys have a place to lay in the barn but are always out and provide protection for the horses.

Some animals come with names, while others Vopali names herself, such as twin mini horses Hansel and Gretel.

There are now four mini horses and six full-sized, including a retired 23-yearold Red Rooster show horse.

There is even a horse named Deano now.

“A good friend of ours said, ‘The first stubborn horse you get in needs to be named Deano’,” she said with a grin.

The newly completed barn contains nine stalls, with some large enough to fit small horses in pairs.

Vopali consulted Plaisance when building the barn to ensure it was suitable for the health and care of her animals.

The structure is fabricated from wood and aluminum for added strength. Vopali hand built the barn doors, and completed the interior of the barn with the help of Timmy Allen, Troy Deloach, Seth Cruz and Brittany Williams.

A steel fence was built around the barn for supplementary protection, and additional fencing was put up in the meadows where the horses spend most of their time during the day.

Joseph James is a welder who assisted with the fencing completion and volunteers time to help her, especially since Deano’s passing, Vopali said.

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“They get plenty of love and attention. The first time the horses went down to the meadow after the fencing was installed, they had the time of their lives,” she added.

There is a 1,000-foot fenced area where the four mini horses play separately from the regular-sized ones.

While the animals roll on the ground, eat grass as fast as it grows and run free with plenty of space daily, Vopali and her crew clean out the barn. It’s pressured washed every two to three weeks, and the barn floors are sanitized and stalls cleaned out every day.

They also maintain the land on their own, including the immense amount of grass to cut and ground labor. The hill near the barn was taken down about 5 feet, which was done

by Deano with their own bulldozer and dump truck.

Teaming up with local animal control, Vopali has plans to build a holding fence on Double D Animal Rescue’s site for stray large animals that law enforcement may locate. Typically, they have nowhere to bring them, and Vopali is happy to either watch them temporarily or add them to her herd if not claimed.

“If anyone needs to find a home for a rescue, I have a place 24 Lake Martin Living

for them; however, I am unequipped to take in dogs, and I won’t be boarding other people’s horses,” she added.

In the near future, Vopali plans to begin hosting fundraisers to help with the expense of animal care and barn upkeep.

Between vet bills, emergencies and multiple forms of horse food to buy, she said, the nonprofit organization always accepts donations.

Double D Animal Rescue plans to play host for children’s events and partner with groups such as the Boys and Girls Club and Camp ASSCA. Program ideas in the works include a fall festival and a winter wonderland visit with Santa around the holidays.

Vopali also said kids can come on site to feed the horses, who love carrots and apples. She plans to plant an apple orchard next year to meet the animals’ immense consumption.

The expense and labor of supervising these animals is not easy or cheap, Vopali said, but Deano keeps her going when she feels overwhelmed.

“It’s been a long road without Deano, but whenever I feel like I can’t go on, he gives me that push. Also, these animals rescued me as much as I’ve rescued them,” she said.

For more information about Double D Animal Rescue, visit the Facebook page or call 256-307-7791.

Donations can be sent to 124 Edge Water Rd., Jacksons Gap AL 36861.

Volunteers are welcome, and any groups wanting to interact with and learn about the animals should contact Vopali.

Attention and Care

Clockwise from top left: The mini horses have a separate area inside nearly 1,000 feet of fencing to roam and play; Vopali made the barn's sign and doors on her own, and lent a hand with the interior; the abused 23-year-old Red Rooster show horse has been nursed back to health since he was taken in at Double D Animal Rescue.

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Wellborn welcomes Power Tour 24th annual Hot Rod Magazine road trip brings car enthusiasts to town PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS

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Traveling Car Show

Opening pages: The Wellborn Muscle Car Museum hosted part of the seven-day, seven-city Hot Rod Power Tour last month; Facing page: Tim Wellborn invited car buffs back to his house for a tour of his personal collection in his garage; Top: Car enthusiasts eagerly toured the museum; Right: Mostly Mopars lined the Alexander City location with 60 cars from throughout the country.

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Lake Martin Living 31

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Built on Memories

Cabin in Coosa reflects the past STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

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F

or Denise Lewis, the scenes from childhood summers anesthesiologist in Birmingham and at Russell Medical, spent in Coosa County are still vivid. purchased 160 acres that bordered her grandparents’ land.

The days began at 4:30 a.m. when everyone in the In 1994, they purchased another 40 acres, including a rustic house rose with Uncle Ernest, so he could get ready cabin, and began making their own family’s memories, going for his shift at Russell Mills. Aunt Mary prepared a full breakfast to the cabin every chance they got. They began by sinking their of eggs, bacon and biscuits every single day. Lewis helped Mary children’s roots into Coosa County. can vegetables and make jelly.

On May 1, 2000, nine 18-wheelers arrived to build the In the afternoons, they all spent time on the front porch, couple’s dream home – a 6,000-square foot log house in the rocking, swinging, place where the cabin shelling peas and had stood. After much counting the few cars research, they selected that passed the house Bullock Log House on county Road 20 Company of Ontario, until her uncle came Canada, so they could home. design their own plans.

Lewis’ other aunt, The new house had Lynda Belle Sellers, been built in Canada, delivered news from then taken apart, so that Coosa County in more than 200 Northern a column called white and Northern red The Fishpond News pine logs could be tagged for The Alexander and shipped in the order City Outlook for 75 in which they needed years, so when Lewis to be placed when they and her siblings arrived in Alabama. visited, Sellers Over a two-week always mentioned period, Wayne and five the children in her Canadians from the column. log company, with the “We thought we help of two cranes, built were celebrities,” she the home log by log, said. while electricians and Lewis grew up in plumbers stood ready Birmingham, but her on site to install pipes, mother was born in wiring and outlets as Coosa County. After the logs were placed.

Lewis’ grandparents No nails were used in passed away, her the construction – only aunt and uncle, wooden pegs.

Mary and Ernest Wayne laid the tiles Champion, moved in the kitchen and into her mother’s bathrooms, as well as childhood home. the oak hardwood floors Lewis’ summer days in the living and dining in Coosa County, rooms. The couple living a simpler life jointly did the rockwork at what they lovingly on the island in the called Camp Mary kitchen. and Ernest, became “It took us almost a part of her heart and Hand-designed Authentic Log Cabin year to finish the inside soul. of the house. It was a true The large living room is divided into two seating areas – one creates “Mary always labor of love,” Lewis said. a cozy space facing the stone fireplace while the other provides a gave us money to Because of her perfect view of the lawn leading to the lake. buy candy from the nostalgia for the area, rolling store, an old Lewis furnished the school bus converted to a store, to bring staples like flour and home with memories in mind. The foyer of the home includes sugar down route 20. We loved that. We also had what they a table built by her brother, Michael Blum, using the front door called ice cream suppers. All the neighbors came over with ice – including the locks and hinges – of her mother’s childhood cream freezers in the afternoon, and we got to eat all different home. Her father made three of the lamps in the home from her kinds – strawberry, peach, vanilla. Whatever they made,” Lewis grandfather’s wagon hubs. The sewing machine in the hallway said belonged to her Aunt Mary, and other items belonging to Mary In 1979, Lewis and her husband, Dr. Wayne Lewis, an and Ernest are displayed in the dining room. The spinning 36 Lake Martin Living

Furnished with Family Memorabilia

Clockwise from right: Wayne Lewis killed the bison during a successful hunting trip to Canada; The upstairs loft offers a comfortable setting to watch football games and movies; Fresh flowers add a pop of color to the farm table.

Lake Martin Living 37

wheel belonged to her paternal grandmother.

Past the spiral log staircase in the foyer, the space opens to a living area two stories high, with the log ceiling reaching a height of 32 feet at the center point. A 6-foot tall chandelier made of iron and rope hangs from the center point. Two separate living areas provide great space for entertaining. The fireplace, created by renowned local rock artist Ben Newman, contains rocks from the property and other local sources. A dresser from her grandmother’s house stands in one corner and a bookcase built by Blum, with wood from the old family home, stands in another corner.

More than 30 animals are mounted in the home – deer, moose, bear, wolf, lynx, bison and bobcat, to name a few.

Wayne and the couple’s children, Nathan and Sara, found most of the animals either on their property or during hunting trips

38 Lake Martin Living

to Alaska, Michigan, Texas, Canada and New Zealand. The home features paintings and photographs by their daughter, Carolyn Lewis, who is an artist in St. Louis, Missouri.

Eclectic furnishings were chosen specifically to maintain a cabin feel in the log home. Travels to Montana, Colorado, Wyoming, Tennessee and Texas inspired ideas for the interior.

An armoire in the master bedroom, found in Texas, has a relief of two deer standing on their hind legs. The antler light fixture in the foyer was found in Dallas. An alpaca wall hanging that was found in Las Vegas is displayed over the bed in one room.

Locally, a friend found the perfect antler floor lamp at a shop in Birmingham.

The kitchen provides plenty of space for working and relaxing. Since the cabinets could not be attached to the log walls due to a five- to six-year settling period, they were custom made and installed by Wellborn Forest Products with precision and detail.

Lewis’ collection of aprons – old and new – hangs on an old board fashioned with rolling pins for hooks. A breakfast nook surrounded by windows offers just the right light for violets to grow, another family tradition carried forward. Lewis’ favorite Labor of Love

Previous page, clockwise from top left: The family dog, Lucy, protects her favorite rock in the upstairs loft; The front of the cabin features shady covered porches on both sides for additional outdoor living space; Denise displays memorabilia from her father’s military career on top of the steamer trunk he brought from France when he immigrated to America in 1939; Top: Wayne built the pier to provide a perfect fishing spot on the stocked lake.

piece in the kitchen is a white metal cabinet with a slide-out workspace from Mary’s house.

“I remember standing at that shelf learning to make biscuits and cornbread,” she said.

Also on the main level, an office and half-bath are in the hallway that leads to the master bedroom and bath, which open onto a screened porch. Three bedrooms and two bathrooms are upstairs. Each upstairs bedroom opens onto a balcony.

A large loft overlooking the living area is furnished comfortably with sofas that can be converted into beds for extra sleeping space. The wagon wheel light fixture was saved from the original cabin on the property. Also upstairs, a steamer trunk, carried by Lewis’ father when he first came to America from France in 1939, displays photos and mementos, including his military memorabilia from World War II. Behind the house, the Lewises enjoy a large deck leading to a grassy backyard, which stretches to a lake. The rocking chairs, glider and porch swing came from Mary and Ernest’s house.

When they began developing the property, the couple drained the lake and had a company clean the banks. They let the lake refill naturally, then stocked it with 15,000 bream and 1,500 bass. Fishing from the pier and playing on the manmade island in the lake are favorite family pastimes.

The Lewises moved to their log home in Coosa County permanently in 2012. Lewis’ parents Roger and Evelyn Blum, Mary and Ernest, her grandparents and other family members are buried in the Pine Grove Cemetery not far from the home.

Through the years, Lewis has become the memory keeper in her family, keeping alive simple days gone by – time well spent.

Lake Martin Living 39

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

40 Lake Martin Living

Myth vs. Reality Be in the know about second-home mortgages

W

hether it’s a young couple looking for a cozy home or a retiree seeking a relaxing oasis, now is the right time to buy. Experts predict that mortgage rates will continue to rise as the year continues.

If thinking about buying a second home, it’s important to clarify some second-home misconceptions, beginning with information about financing.

Here are some common myths we’ve heard:

MONEY MATTERS

Scott Blake

Myth: The mortgage rates for second homes are always higher.

Reality: Some banks do charge a higher mortgage rate for a second home, but many lenders will approve a secondhome mortgage at the same rate as the primary home. Be sure to shop around and compare rates from multiple lenders. It won’t impact credit scores.

Myth: The down payment will be too expensive.

Reality: Most people assume they’ll have a larger

down payment than with their primary home. That’s not always the case. Some buyers with excellent credit can still get a second home for as low as 10 percent down, instead of the standard 20 percent.

of appraisals, inspections and opt-out clauses. Local realtors have the inside scoop on comparable homes in the area and can help steer buyers away from properties with potential hidden problems. ~Scott Blake is mortgage sales manager for Valley National Bank based in Alexander City. He has more than 25 years of experience and oversees a mortgage team covering Alexander City, Auburn and Montgomery.

NMLS ID 527945. Contact him at 256-329-7584 or visit ValleyNationalBank.com.

We are one family, and we mourn the senseless tragedy at the Capital Gazette together.

Our hearts grieve the loss of our fellow newspaper staffers.

We wish comfort and peace for their families, friends, co-workers and all who have been touched by this heartbreak – and healing to those who are recovering.

Myth: The lender with the lowest rates is the best

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

choice.

Reality: Certainly, the stated mortgage rate is

extremely important. But when choosing a lender, it’s also essential to keep an eye out for other fees and check to make sure the lender has a good reputation and quality customer service. Local knowledge is also important. Choose a lender that looks out for clients’ best interests, not just rates.

TPI

P.O. Box 999, 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35011 256.234.4281

Myth: Working with a real estate agent is expensive.

Reality: Help from a realtor is actually free to the

buyer. The realtor’s commission is typically paid by the seller and built into the selling price. Before going it alone, be sure to also assess personal knowledge

Lake Martin Living 41

FABULOUS FINDS New Price

Willow Glynn, Riverside Cottage • $1,115,000 Move-in-ready RLH Construction & designed by Mitch Ginn, this design offers 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2 living areas and vaulted ceilings in the kitchen and owner’s suite. Enjoy the spectacular water views from both of the spacious covered porches.

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

South Ridge Harbor, Cascadia • $2,000,000 The Cascadia, designed by Larry Furlong, includes a great room, expansive covered porch, owner’s suite with private screened porch, guest suite, natural stone fireplace, study, laundry, & powder room all on main level. 2 more guest suites, large den with screened porch, kitchenette, 2 built-in bunks along the hallway, powder room, & lake toy storage on the lower level.

Russell Lands On Lake Martin.

Call Rhonda or Emily 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

South Ridge Harbor, Double Main • $1,599,000 The Double Main features 2 master suites on the main level including a stone fireplace, JennAir kitchen appliances, powder room, laundry room, & a covered deck. The lake level contains 2 more bedroom suites, a 2nd family room w/entertainment bar, a lake prep room, a 2nd laundry room, & 2 separate bunk rooms with 6 built-in twin beds. The space above the garage is prepped for the addition of a 5th guest suite.

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

Willow Glynn, The Abby • $1,165,000 1627 South Ridge, Alex City • $1,495,000 Just completed by RLH Construction. The Abby is a 3,219 This lovely 3-year-old home in The Ridge on Lake Martin was thoughtfullysq. ft. plan designed by Chuck Frusterio. Owner’s suite and designed and crafted for the most discriminating lake home buyer. The exterior is guest suites on main level with spacious living-dining-kitchen striking with a European Craftsman flair showcasing rich stonework, board and and large covered porch. Lake level offers two bedrooms, batten style siding & shingle accents. The interior is magnificent with its massive two bathrooms, generous lake-prep room, family room, wet stone fireplace and vaulted wood ceilings in the main great room, and 5 BR spread bar, second laundry, and spacious covered patio for outdoor throughout 2 levels with each level having its own living area, kitchen & laundry entertaining. room. Deep water flat lakeside yard, and beautiful southern water views.

Russell Lands On Lake Martin Lake Martin Realty Call Emily or Rhonda 256.215.7011 Call Mimi Rush 334.399.7874 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com www.LakeMartinRealty.com

136 Windy Oak, Alex City • $880,000 Enjoy sparkling views inside and out from this 5 bed, 4.5 bath mostly furnished home situated on a rare flat lot on Lake Martin. Multiple outdoor spaces are great for entertaining or find the perfect spot to relax on the screened porch, covered deck or terrace.

Lake Martin Realty Call Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

New Price

136 Windward, Alex City • $649,000 Incredible lakefront 5 bed/3 bath home in Windermere.

Immediately start enjoy this lakeside retreat complete with seawall, pier and two lifts in place. The spacious yard is complemented by a gazebo, patio & wrap around deck.

Lake Martin Realty Call Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

42 Lake Martin Living

105 Cherokee Cove, Tallassee • $399,000 This Lake Martin Gem will not last long! Conveniently located on the South end of Lake Martin, this 3 BR, 2 BA home offers great lake views and wonderful outdoor spaces. After swimming or boating all day, enjoy grilling out with friends on the large sun deck or dining and playing games inside the protected screened area. The convenience of having your own private boat launch is a huge bonus! The circle drive provides plenty of guest parking for all of your friends and family. Call and make your appointment today.

Lake Martin Realty Call Haley McKelvey 256.749.8353 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

99 Bay Point, Jackson’s Gap • $1,275,000 Amazing lake home in Baywood, on a point lot with special features.

With +/- 5000 sq. ft., this lake home will create those special memories on the lake with family and friends. This beautiful home offers 4 bedrooms with large bonus room that can be 5th and 6th bedroom, 2 full kitchens and 2 great rooms. Custom cabinets, hardwood floors, 2 car garage, and fabulous floor plan. Deep water, incredible sunsets, and dock. +/- 300 feet of waterfront.

Lake Martin Realty Call Randall Rogers 334.707.5804 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

Russell Medical

Proudly Welcomes Matthew Knight, MD, FACS General Surgeon

Board Certified: General Surgery Medical School: University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Residency: University of South Alabama Medical Center

Ryan Cowley, MD, FACS General Surgeon

Board Certified: General Surgery Medical School: University of South Alabama College of Medicine Residency: University of South Alabama Hospitals & Baptist Health System

3368 Hwy 280, Suite 207 256-215-7479 www.russellcares.com

Lake Martin Living 43

OH SNAP! 1

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Lil' Calypso

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June 9, 2018 Chuck's Marina 1. Noah, Steven and Becky Tapley 2. Jeff and Libby Oyster 3. Carol and Dewayne Phillips 4. Shannon, Mason and Lindsay Mann 5. Mike Young 6. Marvin and LouAnn Wagoner 7. Phil Spraggins and Jeff Long 8. Sheila and Abby Brown, Shay Dean and Olivia Thomson

44 Lake Martin Living

8

OH SNAP! 1

2

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Strand Sessions June 7, 2018 Strand Park, Alexander City 5

1. Michael and Mandi Durr, Stephanie and Mark Daughtry

2. Landon Korte and John Hall 3. Michelle and Reagan West 4. Richie and Tiffani Henry 5. Clara Middlebrooks and Megan and Emma Cole McCants Lake Martin Living 45

OH SNAP! 1

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Alexander City Farmers Market June 16, 2018 Broad Street Plaza 1. Denise Bates

6

2. Harry, Linda and Roberta Wyckoff 3. Caroline, Seth and Caleb Cohen 4. Aamyah, Evelyn and Harold Caver 5. John and Judy Kendrick 6. Barbara Muenzmay and Gayle Spencer 7. Marvin and Marcus Osborne

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7

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Trash Cleanup June 16, 2018 Alexander City streets 1. Mollie Barrett

2. Billy Barrett 3. John Thompson and AJ Nava

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4. Mike and David Lewis 5. Teresa Harrell Moten, Zykerria Glenn, Alisa Norris and Sarah Chappell 6. Ashley Baker and Steve Morgan 7. Tom Lamberth 8. Bill Thompson 9. Ray Peacock Lake Martin Living 47

OH SNAP! 1

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United Way Day of Action Main Street and BRHS 1. Carly Herrmann and Bre Smith 2. Za'Niya Edwards and Malesha Jones 3. Madison Davis, Marly McCollum, Leeta McGill,

4. Christian Hughes, Tiffany Minnifield, Pat Bull and Jayson Hatchett

5. Beverly and Tanner Johnson 6. Vickie Herring 7. Sharon Moore and Tom Lamberth 8. Phoebe Lewis, Lori Ennis and Dennis Lewis 9. Amy Hyland, Crystal Freeman and Holly Williams

48 Lake Martin Living

6

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June 21, 2018

Lillian Parker, Addie Fuller and George Ammons

3

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OH SNAP! 1

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Sarah Carlisle Towery Exhibit Reception June 5, 2018 Gallery 128, Alexander City 1. Honey Haynes, Lacey Howell and Laurie Sturdivant

2. Margaret and Wayne Fuller 3. Sarah Towery Wade and Lauren Wade 4. Sharon Maddox and Toni Adams 5. Janice and Bobby Boone Lake Martin Living 49

3

OH SNAP! 2

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Fourth of July Blast

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July 4, 2018 Lake Martin Amphitheater 1. Dylan and Adelyn Carr 2. Cathy Nance and Tyson Moon 3. Cassidy and Amanda Patterson, Saylor and Bradyn White 4. Kristina Osborn and Lin Chen 5. Harlie Yankey and Adena Kindrick

6. Amy Peppers 7. Allison Castleberry, Macy Potts, Amy Castleberry, Taylor Potts, Kaitlyn Castleberry and Leighanne Potts

50 Lake Martin Living

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Raining Dog Studio Gallery Reception Opening June 29, 2018 Downtown Dadeville 1. Shane, Blair and Kim Morse

2. Linda Bell, Scott Phillips, Dott Dailey, Maggie Phillips and Bella Donna

9

3. SlyFox Messer 4. Mary Belk and Kurt Pfitzner 5. Margee Ragland 6. Lisa Woody and Sandra Hughley 7. Rick and Mitty Hidding 8. Rob Renfroe, Jim Cahoon, Will York and Robert Renfroe 9. Sharon Gaither, June Clark and Raphelia Forbus Lake Martin Living 51

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Beach Bash on Main

Main Street to host downtown street party Main Street Alexander City will host a beach-themed street party in downtown Alexander City Aug. 4 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

There will be live music from the popular party band Chevy 6, and some businesses will stay open late.

Chevy 6 was formed in Tuscaloosa during the 70s and is most well known for playing the best of the party oldies, including music from the 50s and 60s. The five-piece band is made up of Bob, Rico, Benje, Roe and Ken. They have stormed the Southeast and played at a host of events, including college parties, weddings, reunions, festivals and more.

Food and drink can be purchased in historic Alexander City’s entertainment district, so there are no outside coolers allowed. This event will be held rain or shine.

The first 250 people through the door will receive a free koozie.

Tickets are sold for $30 in advance or $35

52 Lake Martin Living

at the door. Chevy reserved seats will be sold for $50 per person, which ensure the ticketholder a chair at a table of eight. Tickets can be purchased by cash or check only and can be found at the Main Street office, 21 Main St., or various shops and restaurants downtown.

Wear beach attire, break out the dancing shoes to join the fun on Main Street.

For more information, visit Main Street Alexander City’s Facebook page.

July 16

All Wake Surf Clinic

From 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., visit The Ridge Marina for individualized, small group instruction from professional riders, coaches and enthusiasts. Cost is $50 per person. To sign up, contact Scott Goslin at Russell Marine at 256-4960713 or sgoslin@russelllands.com.

July 16-17

Throw Away Day

The Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission will team up to provide dumpsters for the disposal of household items at five locations from noon on Monday through Tuesday evening. The dumpsters will be available free of charge at the Alexander City Annex, 395 Lee St. in District 1; Double Bridges on Highway 63 in District 2; Old Daviston School on state Route 22 in District 3; Young’s Ferry at Gibson Rd. and Mullican Rd. in District 4; and Union Community Center at 4191 Highway 50 in District 5. No liquids, appliances with compressors, tires, batteries, light bulbs, televisions, computers, propane tanks or hazardous or medical waste will be allowed. For information, contact Sabrina Clark Wood at 334-429-8832.

July 21

Lake Martin Cornhole Championship

Registration begins at 10 a.m., and the tournament starts at 12 p.m. at The World Famous Rodeo Club in Dadeville.

For information, contact the Dadeville Chamber of Commerce at 256-825-4019.

July 21

Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run

This annual event gets bigger and better every year.

Boat crews crisscross the lake to collect cards for the best poker hand while the party revs up at Kowaliga with music, food and fun. Proceeds benefit local charities. Prizes are awarded for the most original crew costumes as well. Start at The Ridge Marina at 8 a.m. and when your hand is complete, head to the party at Kowaliga Restaurant to see if you won. For information, contact Emily Sprayberry at esprayberry@russelllands.com.

July 28

Heart of Waverly BBQ

Standard Deluxe will host this daylong event starting at 11 a.m. featuring a plethora of BBQ vendors, a five-band lineup, art and farm vendors and ice cream. Tickets are $20 online or at the gate. Bring coolers, chairs and friends. Visit standarddeluxe.com for more information.

July 30

Russell Marine Wakeboard/Wake Surf Clinic

From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., visit Kowaliga Marina for individualized, small group instruction from professional wakeboard riders and skiers, coaches and enthusiasts. Cost is $50 per person. To sign up, contact Scott Goslin at 256496-0713 or sgoslin@russelllands.com.

Aug. 31-Sept. 2

Labor Day Weekend at Chuck’s Marina

Close out the summer with music and embrace fall football at Chuck’s Marina on Lake Martin on Labor Day weekend. Sean Heninger from Birmingham will be the featured musician on Friday night, and Blane Rudd will close out the summer music schedule on Sunday. But Saturday will be all about football. For more information about weekend activities, visit the Chuck’s Facebook page.

September 2

Labor Day Concert at The AMP

Gates open at 5 p.m. at Lake Martin Ampitheater for the annual summer close-out concert. Bring coolers, kids, friends, lawn chairs and blankets and turn out for one last great big party at the lake. Music starts at 7 p.m. For tickets and artist information, visit www. russelllandsonlakemartin.com.

Sept. 3

Cornhole Tournament

The Landing at Parker Creek will host this annual cornhole tournament at the lake on Labor Day. An officially sanctioned, regulation tournament, participants play double elimination to win the money and the right to wear the crown. Visit The Landing Facebook page for entry details.

Season-Long Events Summer Saturdays at The Landing

Pull up the boat or park the car at The Landing at Parker Creek for karaoke and occasional live music duos on Saturday nights. This open pavilion dining destination is great casual fun at the lake any time. Karaoke starts at 6 p.m., but during the day, join in the volleyball and Jenga games while the kids play on the beach.

Summer Paddleboarding

Meet up with other paddleboarders at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays of July for demos, tours and relays. Call Paddle Lake Martin at 334-799-0529 to sign up or for more information.

Yoga on the Green

Start summer Saturdays through Sept. 29 with relaxing yoga stretches on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m. Bring your mat and a bottle of water to this free event that will be led by experienced instructors.

Church of the Living Waters Summer Services

Church of the Living Waters at StillWaters hosts guest preachers through Labor Day. Services begin at 9 a.m.

Dress is casual. Come by car, bike, golf cart or boat.

Address is 782 Lakeview Ridge, Dadeville. GPS coordinates are N32 44.554, W 085 48.867. Visit www.colw-sw.com.

Roman Catholic Worship at Church in the Pines

The parish at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church of Tallassee will hold confession at 5:30 p.m. and Holy Eucharist at 6 p.m. on Saturdays at Church in the Pines through Sept.

Lake Martin Living 53

1. Confession also can be arranged by appointment. Call Fr. Matt Rudzik at 251-599-4597. For information visit stvincent-tallassee.org.

Free Driving and Docking Clinics

animals and plants, and there’s even a couple of night hikes on the schedule. For details, visit russelllandsonlakemartin.com.

Alabama Wildlife Federation Naturalist Hikes

Boost your confidence and learn to safely and properly operate and dock your boat. Blue Creek Marina will host free clinics on Mondays all summer long with experienced captains who will offer instruction, demonstration and coaching. Registration is required, and clinics are held at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Space is limited so call 256-825-8888 to reserve a spot, or email j.shockley@ singletonmarinegroup.com or m.bishop@singletonmarinegroup. com. Pontoon clinics will be held Aug. 6; sterndrive clinics are scheduled for Aug. 13; and tow boat clinics will be held July 23 and Aug. 20.

Every Tuesday and Friday, from 10 a.m. until noon, hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced Alabama Nature Center naturalist by your side. Learn how to bird or identify plants and animals; splash through the creek; or catch insects in the meadow. General admission applies and is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. The Alabama Nature Center is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Visit alabamawildlife.org to check holiday closings.

Naturalist Events

Every Monday and Wednesday, from 3:30 p.m. until 4 p.m., come learn about Alabama’s woods, water and wildlife. Get up close and personal with some of the creatures you may find in your own backyard, and even

Russell Lands will host naturalist programs and guided nature tours at Russell Crossroads and selected trailheads in Russell Forest all summer. Learn about the lake’s

Alabama Wildlife Federation Creature Feature

O’Neal Electric Michael O’Neal

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

54 Lake Martin Living

some you may have never heard of.

General admission applies and is $5 per person with a $20 maximum per family. The Alabama Nature Center is located at 3050 Lanark Rd. in Millbrook. Visit alabamawildlife.org.

Library Storytime in Dadeville

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

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. and offers kidfriendly movies on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m.

Ladies’ Book Club

Ladies 18 years of age and older are invited to participate in the club at Adelia M. Russell Library on the last Thursday of every month. Meet in the conference room at 4 p.m. Call the library at 256-234-4644 for each month’s book title.

Electronics Recycling

The City of Alexander City Public Works Department hosts an electronics recycling event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Items accepted include computers, computer mouse, keyboards, modems or routers, CD and DVD players, power supplies, PC mix systems, home or cell phones, printers or copiers, mainframe servers, audio/video adapters, laptop chargers, cable boxes, nickel cadmium or lithium ion batteries and flat screen monitors and televisions. CRT monitors and televisions are no longer accepted. For more information, call the Alexander City Public Works Department at 256-409-2020.

Santuck Flea Market

The Santuck Flea Market is held the first Saturday of each month at 7300 Central Plank Rd. in Wetumpka.

Sarah Carlisle Towery Art Colony Exhibit

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

$20 on the 20th

The Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce is asking our community to spend $20 on the 20th of each month to help our local economy.

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Located on Highway 63 just south of Lake Martin Amphitheater, the Children’s Harbor Thrift Store is open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You never know what gems you might find – from clothes and household items to boats.

Proceeds are used to help fund the activities at the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

The third Saturday of each month, volunteers throughout the community are encouraged to meet at Broad Street Plaza at 9 a.m. for pickup supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. For more information, contact Jacob Meacham at jacob.meacham@ alexandercitychamber.com.

Music on the Deck at Kowaliga

On the first and third Sundays of the month, from now through August, Kowaliga restaurant will be offering live acoustic music on the deck from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., weather permitting. For the full artist lineup, visit kowaligarestaurant.com.

Wine Tasting

Visit Catherine’s Market at Russell Crossroads every Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for a $5 wine tasting.

Purchase a bottle for 15 percent off from that night’s selections.

To have an upcoming event featured in Lake Martin Living's calendar section, email the date, time, location and important details to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

Lake Martin Living 55

9

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

9

Power lines

22

280

21

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

17

22

Flint Hill Church

26

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

15

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Jacksons Gap

Pleasant Grove Church

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11

9

Mt. Zion Church Russell Farms Baptist Church 36 Friendship Church New Hope Church

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

24 57

27

7

24

6

4 Camp Kiwanis

31 Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

11 Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

12 1

Church in The Pines

Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

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ga

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Stillwaters

23 5

Union Landing

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Walnut Hill

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Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

8 63 20 9

Equality

9

19

10

Smith Landing

Willow Point

Seman

Dadev

280

Liberty Church

20

231

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

33

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

18

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

37

49

Eclectic

13

Santuck

Kent Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

14

120

14

32 14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

56 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUNT

Marinas

Daviston

1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111

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

450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

22

33. River North Marina 256-397-1500

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

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

hoe Bend nal Park

6 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

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

smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com

Restaurants

CHAMBERS COUNTY

ville

9 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 10 Homeplate Cafe 256-825-0583

191 East South St., Dadeville, AL 36853

50

Camp Hill

8 SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

11 Oskar's Cafe 6684 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

28

12 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

280

Waverly 50

25 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 26 Foshee What's, LLC 256-234-3298 2802 Dadeville Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 27 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt @ Smith Marina 256-444-8793 28 Artistic Teak 256-896-1111 1405 Old Hwy 280, Camp Hill, AL 36850 earthscreations.net

Hotels & Lodges 29 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 30 Creekside Event Center 256-307-1441

7051 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches

32 Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 334-252-8618

2602 Gilmer Avenue, Tallassee, AL 36078

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

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 18 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 19 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853

14

24 Centry 21 Lake Area Realty 256-825-4800 440 N Broadnax St., Dadeville, AL 36853

14 Acapulco Mexican Grill 334-283-2725

2867 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee, AL 36078

16 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

Loachapoka

23 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853

31 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853

Business & Shopping

LEE COUNTY

22 McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583

1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010

13 Bezlo's Bar and Grill 334-639-0003

65 Main Street., Eclectic, AL 36024

15 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481

5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, Al 35010

16

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

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010

20 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

33 Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293

8352 Highway 50, Dadeville, AL 36853

Dock Builders 34 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 35 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation & Entertainment 36 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010 37 A Little Bit of Texas 334-300-2405

38 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

Notasulga

ON TY

85 81

If you would like to advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map, for as little as $25 call 256-234-4281. Space is limited.

Lake Martin Living 57

Central To You, Central To Your Success.

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

ALEXANDER CITY

Central Alabama Community College www.cacc.edu Now Offering Classes in Millbrook Alexander City Campus 256.234.6346 1675 Cherokee Road Alexander City, AL 35010 Childersburg Campus 256.378.5576 34091 U.S. Highway 280 Childersburg, AL 35044 Talladega Center 256.480.2066 1009 South St. East Talladega, AL 35160 CentralAlabama1

58 Lake Martin Living

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

CHELSEA

The Ditsy Daisy Boutique Winn-Dixie

CHILDERSBURG Winn-Dixie

DADEVILLE

American Watersports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foodland Foshee Boat Dock

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

ECLECTIC

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

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

INVERNESS

Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Area Tree Top Family Adventure Winn-Dixie

KELLYTON

Five Star Plantation

MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market

RED HILL Citgo

SYLACAUGA

Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly on 21

TALLASSEE

Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce Ivy Creek Game Day Clips Mitchell Veterinarian Hospital Paris Mullins Jr, OD PrimeSouth Bank Tallassee Community Library The Tallassee Tribune Three Lake Dental

WALNUT HILL

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA

The Wetumpka Herald To be sure a copy is reserved for you, call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281 for a subscription.

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

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

• 60 MONTHS, NO INTEREST *for qualified buyers*

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SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Williams Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.

Mike Coker

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

256-329-8488 256-267-5021 mobile

haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

3875 Dadeville Road, Alexander City, AL 35010

Lake Martin Living 59

AD INDEX A&M Plumbing.................................................................................... 6 Advanced Heating & Air.................................................................... 5 9 All That Space.................................................................................... 2 6 Artistic Teak......................................................................................... 5 Beyond Home Care............................................................................ 3 2 Bob Alexander Landscaping .............................................................. 1 4 Bromberg's Jewelers............................................................................ 2 Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation......................................................... 2 6 C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 2 6 CACC................................................................................................ 5 8 Cahaba Glass..................................................................................... 3 2 DAVCO Development........................................................................ 5 9 Designs by Trish................................................................................... 6 District Nineteen.................................................................................. 8 Fairmount Realty Company................................................................ 6 1 Four Seasons..................................................................................... 5 9 George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 6 Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance...................................................... 5 9 Heritage South Credit Union.............................................................. 6 0 Hinson Galleries................................................................................. 4 0 Jackson Thornton............................................................................. 6 1 Jan Ware Designs.............................................................................. 2 7 L&M Design....................................................................................... 3 1 Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 21, 59 Lake Martin Properties...................................................................... 2 2 Liveoak Agency, Inc.......................................................................... 1 4 Kathy McKinley, Draperies.................................................................. 8 Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance................................................ 5 9

60 Lake Martin Living

Kelley’s Heating & Air........................................................................ 5 9 Mark King's Furniture ....................................................................... 3 3 Mid South Window Tinting.............................................................. 2 6 Millstone Nursery................................................................................ 6 Naturescapes..................................................................................... 3 2 Noel Boone........................................................................................ 5 9 OBGYN Associates of Montgomery..................................................... 5 Off the Beaten Path........................................................................... 3 2 O'Neal Electric................................................................................... 5 4 Prime Management............................................................................. 8 Poor House Boat Outlet..................................................................... 2 6 Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6 River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 5 9 Russell Lands..................................................................................... 6 3 Russell Medical............................................................................ 15, 43 Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................... 5 Southern Sash................................................................................... 1 4 Southern Star Pet Grooming & Boarding............................................. 5 Star Bright Window Cleaning............................................................ 5 9 Surgical Dermatology......................................................................... 1 9 Sunrise Docks.................................................................................... 4 0 Sweet Pick'ins.................................................................................... 5 9 TowBoat............................................................................................ 2 7 UAB Heart & Vascular........................................................................ 5 5 Williams Plumbing............................................................................. 5 9 Wind Creek Casino.............................................................................. 3

Fairmont Realty Company “Your Hometown Realtor!�

www.fairmont-realty.com Office: (256) 249-8574 Greg Tubbs Cell: (256) 872-4663

Come View This Home On Lake Wedowee!

2 bedrooms, 2 baths, 261 ft. of waterfront shoreline with a gorgeous view. Recently remodeled with new Wellborn cabinets. Large screened-in porch, pier and dock. Wonderfully landscaped with goldfish pond and fountain.

Lake Martin Living 61

UNBREAKABLE RECORDS

In Honor of Bill Chambers

T

here is such a variety of unbreakable records in Chambers. Unfortunately, he was vying for a spot that was sports. occupied by George Mikan – the superstar of that era. With The old cliché tells us that records are meant to the Lakers not keeping Chambers on the roster, but still be broken, but there are some that undoubtedly holding his rights, he really had nowhere to go in the pro will stand the test of time. game; however, basketball was still in his blood.

UCLA’s seven straight college basketball championships; He coached Newport News High School in Virginia Oklahoma’s 47 consecutive wins on the football field; and to a 67-8 record over three years while winning two state Cal Ripken Jr.’s 2,632 continuous games played are just a few. championships. Later, Chambers took over the head What about Georgia Tech’s 222-0 victory over coaching duties at his alma mater of William & Mary Cumberland University (this one stings for me; I had where he stayed for nine years. While there, Chambers Cumberland plus 221.5 in a parlay) or the world’s longest accumulated the highest win total in W&M history until tennis match that totaled 11 hours and 5 minutes between 2013, and he once guided his squad to an improbable win John Isner and Nicolas Mahut – which is 11 hours and 4 over the then-No. 4 ranked West Virginia Mountaineers. minutes more than anyone watched?

After his coaching days, what followed was a successful Who could forget Barry Bonds’ 73 home runs? and decorated corporate career, which is also a Even though he was more juiced than a frozen big source of pride for him. Chamber eventually can of orange juice concentrate, it’s still a record worked his way up to vice president of sales for … to some people … kinda.

Russell Corporation in 1990. He retired in 1994, Earlier this year, I was made aware of another and he and his lovely wife, Betty, decided to live holder of a potentially unbreakable record and the rest of their lives on Lake Martin. quite an astonishing one, really.

Of course, there is not enough room in this Bill Chambers once reeled in 51 rebounds column to detail many of his other notable in a college basketball game while playing for achievements. Like how his jersey is retired at the College of William & Mary. To put this William & Mary or how he successfully shot number in perspective, North Carolina led the underhanded free throw during his playing the country in rebounds last year with 47 per career (which, by the way, is incredibly effective contest. Chambers topped that by himself without to this day; it’s just that players refuse to be seen the help of his team (including William or Mary)! in public taking a “Granny shot” despite its Want to know what’s even more obvious benefits). amazing? Chambers accomplished this feat about For now, it is sufficient to say our area is 65 years ago on February 14, 1953. This stat has Luke Robinson intertwined with yet another unique and stood at the number one spot for 20 years longer special sports figure – a man who is literally in than I have been alive. the record books (and holds the top spot by a What is still even crazier than the record’s happening 65 wide margin, too). years ago is that Bill Chambers lived here in Alabama.

Above it all, though, Bill and Betty Chambers made Not just anywhere, but in my hometown and probably something abundantly clear to me: The rebounding record is yours too, if you are reading this. America’s crossroads of the nice; his coaching success was great, too; however, the best Twilight Zone and the Bermuda Triangle: Alexander City. part of his life with basketball was his relationships with his I had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Chambers a year teammates and players. or so ago. I had known him for some time, but I never really The couple gave the widest smiles during our knew him. discussions when they told me about how former players Initially, I expected to spend a few minutes called Chambers and gave him updates on their personal with Chambers discussing his single rebounding accolade. lives. In a time when athletes and coaches like to put the “mAfter all, if I held an NCAA record for more than 65 years, e” in “team,” it was awesome to meet a coach whose most I probably would have retired on that accomplishment cherished moments aren’t found in the record books. alone. I would have made a “Got Rebounds?” clothing brand Sadly, Mr. Chambers passed away last year. He will and started a website to match heartbroken lovers called certainly be missed by many.

“OnTheRebound.com.”

I am very thankful to have gotten to spend a sliver of an I wanted to give Mr. Chambers enough time to gloat afternoon with such a legend. Just like his indelible mark appropriately. He deserved it. But as I spoke to him, I in the basketball record books, Bill Chambers made an realized that not only was he not the braggadocious type, but inerasable mark with me as well. also there was a lot more to his story than a single night of history. ~Luke Robinson is an Alexander City native and also writes I learned that after college, the Minneapolis Lakers drafted a weekly column in The Alexander City Outlook.

The Last Word

62 Lake Martin Living

Russell Lands On Lake Martin is a breathtaking lake community with 25,000 acres of forest set among Lake Martin’s 40,000 plus acres of pristine water and nearly 900 miles of shoreline. The largest premier neighborhood at Russell Lands On Lake Martin is The Ridge, where ownership comes with an array of extras including The Ridge Club, a 10-acre recreation complex; miles of hiking and walking trails, as well as nature and waterfront parks; and a state-of-the-art Ridge Marina—all designed to connect you with family, friends, nature, and always, the lake.

Lake Martin Living 63