Lake Martin Living December 2018

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

Countryside Christmas On the road with Zac Brown Band

December 2018

www.lakemartinmagazine.com

ITTA BENA: A GREAT PLACE TO BE!

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ooking for an extra-special place for your Holiday gathering this year? Come to Itta Bena Restaurant at Wind Creek Montgomery, and leave your worries behind. Itta Bena offers delicious southern cuisine in a stylishly casual environment, and the coolest bar in Montgomery. We can accommodate groups of any size, from company parties to family gatherings, and our party planning experts can customize your event to your taste and budget.

Your Guests will never forget your evening at Itta Bena, so contact us at salesmontgomery@ittabena.com or (334) 514-5227 to get started!

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Lake Martin Living 3

From the Editor’s Desk

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hristmas is my all-time favorite season of the year. Yes, I say season because to me it’s more than a holiday – it’s a spirit. It may be cliché, but I can’t help smiling when I see garland and red bows on downtown Alexander City’s light posts, houses illuminated at night and trees beautifully trimmed.

I love Christmas so much that I naively volunteered myself to play Itsy the Elf on behalf of the advertising department’s seasonal section. What sounded like a cute idea came with the realization that I would be facing the public in this attire. (If I agree to a role, I go all in.) So for those readers that may have spotted me around town or in Alexander City's Christmas parade, I promise you this is not my normal style.

Despite the average petite-style of my living arrangements over the years, I’ve always found space for the exorbitant amount of holiday decorations I’ve accumulated during my short three decades on this planet.

Being a fan of festive trimmings, I jumped at the chance to indulge in a winter wonderland tour of Pursell Farms in Sylacauga in all its festive glory. This charming, cozy resort destination features outdoor activities, event space and places to dine. This year, the destination expanded its amenities and opened the 40-room Inn in March.

Photographer Shannon McDuffie and I were treated to a hospitable tour through the Inn’s holiday decorations. Ellen Pursell is the main creative mind behind not only the interior design of the Inn but also the seasonal additions. Turn to page 30 to read more about the Inn and admire its glamorous décor.

We decided to explore more in the Sylacauga area, and Kara McClendon Bacchi, owner and chef of Buttermilk Hill Restaurant, gave Betsy Iler some tips for a great Christmas dinner menu. Whether you’re looking to test this location for a night out or want to re-create the experience at home, we’ve provided information about both the restaurant and recipes on page 16.

From Christmas parades and artists’ markets to holiday plays and tree lightings, we captured the community’s cheerful events in our Oh Snap section starting on page 35.

What would the holiday season be without its classic tunes? New columnist Lacey Howell kicks off her column, Culture Shock, with some of her favorite songs and albums of the season on page 50. We’re happy to introduce Lacey, whom I am sure most of you know, to the team. She will capture the ‘culture’ of the arts and entertainment in the county and ‘shock’ our readers with new events, artists of all kinds and maybe even some technological advances.

Whether you’re a fan of the holidays or prefer to stay low-key, enjoy your family traditions and feel free to share your Christmas photos on our Lake Martin Living Facebook page.

Oh, and Happy New Year!

Amy Passaretti, Editor 4 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Editor Amy Passaretti Contributors Kenneth Boone Dave Jennings Sidney Hancock Cliff Williams Donald Campbell Shannon McDuffie Lizi Arbogast Lacey Howell Lee Williams Andy Sapp Magazine Distribution Manager Erin Burton Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Shelley McNeal Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Katie Wesson Marilyn Hawkins Kat Raiford Jessica Ware Julie Harbin Jolie Waters 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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Pursell Farms in Sylacauga recently opened an inn on its 22 acres. The 40room relaxed luxury accomodations create a cozy atmosphere for the holidays. Ellen Pursell and Melony Vickers decorated with natural trimmings.

Old Tom's Pub features seasonal cocktails, such as this Conecuh Coffee.

Photo by Shannon McDuffie

FEATURES 16. SEASONAL SOUTHERN MEAL Buttermilk Hill Restaurant chef provides recipes for a holiday treat 19. GIFT GUIDE Positively perfect presents available now 24. MAIN STREET Pick up last minute gift items from Alexander City's Main Street shops

26. ON THE ROAD WITH ZAC BROWN Alexander City native crews for the group 30. COZY UP IN THE COUNTRY Festive offerings evoke holiday spirit at Pursell Farms

IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 10. BUSINESS MATTERS 12. GARDEN TALK 20. FROM THE TEE 23. MONEY MATTERS 35. OH SNAP! 40. LAKE REGION EVENTS 50. CULTURE SHOCK

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Lake Martin Living 7

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AROUND THE AREA

Dual Honors for BRHS For just one former Benjamin Russell High School coach to be inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame is a serious honor, but for two former Wildcats frontmen to be inducted in the same year is an incredible feat.

Benjamin Russell is celebrating this honor, as it was announced by the AHSAA both Willie Carl Martin and Phil Lazenby would be inducted in the ASHOF’s 2019 Class.

Martin is a Wildcat through and through. Born and raised in Alexander City, Martin went to Laurel High School and was one of the first three black athletes selected to play in the North-South All-Star game. Martin went on to have a successful college career at Northeastern Oklahoma, where he is a member of its Hall of Fame. He also played 10 years in the Canadian Football League before returning home to coach the Wildcats from 2001-2006.

After Steve Saverese left BRHS in 1996, Lazenby was hired as head coach

and athletic director, titles he held for four seasons from 1997-2000. Under the direction of Lazenby, the Wildcats went to two state championships in four years and played in what many consider one of the best high school football games in Alabama history.

Lazenby went on to have several different coaching stints and is the current coach at Bayside Academy, where he has been for 12 years. Martin coached the Wildcats until 2006 and eventually went on to be the director of player development at the University of Alabama until his retirement in 2015.

Martin said what got him to the ASHOF wasn’t him but it was the Benjamin Russell community and especially the support of his late wife, Leslie Martin. ~Lizi Arbogast Quality Coaching

Previous BRHS football coaches Willie Carl Martin (top) and Phil Lazenby both will be inducted in the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.

Dadeville lights up with holiday spirit Hosted by nonprofit Everything’s Art, the city of Dadeville held its Christmas Tree Lighting last month.

Children signed letters to Santa; choirs sang carols, and students performed a dance in the streets.

Letters to Santa

Savannah Grace Smith signs her Christmas wish list.

Despite the cold weather, crowds stood in front of Courthouse Square for the festivities, which also included free hot chocolate. When Mayor Smith lit the Christmas tree at 4:30 p.m., the surrounding downtown businesses turned on their festive lighting as well to create a luminous scene. ~Cliff Williams

Horseshoe Bend receives FFA award The Horseshoe Bend Future Farmers of America received an honor only a handful of chapters achieve each year.

At the annual National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, the Horseshoe Bend delegation received the National Chapter Award with three stars, which chapter sponsor Jessica Hodnett said is prestigious.

According to the national FFA organization, the awards program recognizes outstanding chapters from across the country actively implementing

the mission and strategies of the FFA. Chapters are rewarded for providing educational experiences for their entire membership.

Sid Phelps of Dadeville won the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Young Farmers Discussion Meet during the organizations 97th annual meeting.

Phelps will represent Alabama at the American Farm Bureau Federation Discussion Meet in January. ~Donald Campbell

Proud Students

The Horseshoe Bend FFA received the National Chapter Award with three stars.

Lake Martin Living 9

BUSINESS MATTERS

The Market Outlet Aprinta's retail store carries gifts for the holidays STORY & PHOTOS BY BETSY ILER

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printa owner Billy Dolan solved two problems when he opened The Market Outlet in June: The new store filled a hole left in the community when Russell Retail closed, and it replaced revenue that Aprinta lost when four contractors stopped sending orders to the local apparel printer.

“We found a way to survive and to help the community, and that’s our goal,” said Bonnie Clarkston, manager at The Market Outlet. “We were able to move some positions around, and we still have the same number of employees.

We can help the community with customized products and charity benefits.”

The outlet store, which is located next door to Aprinta’s 10 Lake Martin Living

main operation in the former Fruit of the Loom complex, offers T-shirts, shorts, stuffed animals and novelty items at bargain prices. In addition to shirts, shorts and uniforms, the store stocks hats, coolers, bags, polo shirts, wallets, aprons and umbrellas that could be personalized for local teams, special occasions or benefit events in the community.

“One of the benefits we are working on is raising money for a local boy who has cerebral palsy,” Clarkston said.

“But we want to do more of that kind of thing. This is a community that has supported us, and we want to give back to the community, too.”

The store auctioned long-sleeved, hooded Ts with an

exclusive design, as well as other items, to help the local child.

Clarkston said their apparel could be embroidered with custom graphics designed by in-house designer Jessica Stewart.

“We can design shirts for family reunions or weddings or other special occasions. We just need a minimum order of 10 of any one product,” she said.

Patriotic designs were big sellers over the summer, but popular items included physical education clothes, Clarkston said. The Market Outlet includes a Benjamin Russell High School corner, where patrons could purchase shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, pompoms and other BRHS emblazoned items.

The clothing is available in a variety of brand names and fabric blends, and new inventory arrives daily.

Most items in the store are priced very competitively, she said. Printed T-shirts are $10; blank Ts sell for $5 each.

Polo shirts are $7. Bib aprons, suitable for the kitchen or the art room, are all priced under $5. Umbrellas are $6 and

are available in a variety of Open for Business colors, including team colors. Clockwise from Left: Aprinta designs custom “The promo products graphics on their T-shirts; can be custom printed, too,” Novelty items could be Clarkston said. personalized as well; “The store has helped us Stuffed animals are among to diversify, to not rely too the many items for sale. heavily on any one line of revenue but to get creative.

We saw an opening when Russell Retail closed, and so many people in the area were upset about that. We are just glad that we could offer this to the community and use it to help our employees keep their jobs,” Clarkston said.

The store, located at 470 Joseph St., Alexander City, is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Visit The Market Outlet on Facebook or call the store at 256-392-7563 for more information.

Lake Martin Living 11

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othing says Christmas like a poinsettia. Almost everyone has probably received one at some time and delightfully so.

Since I’ve begun writing this column, I’ve become more inquisitive – always seeking an interesting topic to write about next. Walking into the grocery store, I was immediately greeted by the festive plants all wrapped up and ready to travel to their new holiday homes.

Garden Talk

Poinsettia History Poinsettias, Euphorbia pulcherrima, were introduced to the United States in 1828 by Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett. Poinsett was the first U.S ambassador to Mexico and was a botanist in his free time. While searching for new plant species, he discovered the poinsettia in southern Mexico and sent cuttings back to the U.S. Poinsettias were cultivated in Mexico long before Poinsett’s discovery. The plants were prized by Aztec kings for their brilliant colors, medicinal uses and religious connotations. Since the plants could not be grown in the high altitudes of the capital city, kings would have the plants brought in by Sidney Hancock caravans.

In the Christian tradition, the poinsettia was considered a symbol of purity as the red color symbolized the blood of Jesus’ sacrifice. Star-shaped leaves were said to represent the Star of Bethlehem that led the wise men to the place where Christ was born.

These interpretations and legends led to the plants being called flores de noche buena or “flowers of the holy night.” Poinsettias were used in Nativity processions and eventually, the plant caught on as a Christmas staple in the United States in the 20th century.

Poinsettia Care While red is the most popular, today’s poinsettias could be found in a wide range of colors, including shades of pink, white, purple and yellow. The bright colors are not actually the flowers of the plant, but its leaves. The flowers are the yellow clustered buds in the center. The leaves take on the bright colors in response to the plant forming those small flowers.

When purchasing a poinsettia at the store, select a plant with closed buds. Avoid plants with yellowed or wilted leaves. Ideally, the plants will have dark green foliage that covers up the top of the pot beneath the colored leaves.

To prolong the life of a poinsettia, remove any plastic wrapping and place it in an area of the house that will not receive hot or cold drafts.

Keep it away from front doors and fireplaces. If you put it in front of a window, make sure none of the leaves touch the cold glass.

Watering too much or too little is typically the biggest issue. Water the plant often to keep the soil moist but not to the point where it’s soggy. Once the leaves wilt significantly, the plant will be tough to save. It will need plenty of natural light and prefers temperatures of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not necessary to apply a fertilizer while the plant is in bloom, but make an application of an all-purpose fertilizer once a Symbol of Christmas The poinsettia was month after the holidays. originally discovered Foliar diseases, such as gray mold, mildews in Mexico.

12 Lake Martin Living

Poinsettias make a great holiday gift Enjoy this plant year round with proper care

Lake Martin Living 13

and leaf scabs, could cause an early loss of these festive plants. Remove any leaves that are scabby or mildewed in appearance.

Avoid wetting the foliage when watering the plant, as well as crowding multiple plants together so the foliage is touching. Space the plants out, so there is adequate airflow between them. Some may go as far as to apply a preventative all-purpose fungicide to the soil as a drench or spray to the leaves.

Most insect pests could be removed with soapy water; however, if you suspect whiteflies, remove and dispose of the plant to reduce chances of an infestation.

Many poinsettias will outlast the will to keep them.

To get a poinsettia to re-bloom next year, alter its day lengths. It will need no more than 10 hours of light per day beginning around Oct. 1. Place the plant in a darkened closet or room that receives no light at any time from about 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily. This process will need to be repeated for eight to 10 weeks to get the plant to bloom again.

Today, poinsettias are the best-selling potted plants in the United States and Canada, most sold within a six-week period.

A Gift that Lasts I think to say the Aztecs were Left: Poinsettias onto something would be an receive their bright understatement. colorings from the Happy gardening! leaves' flower buds; Below: To prolong the life of the plant, remove any plastic wrapping.

14 Lake Martin Living

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Lake Martin Living 15

16 Lake Martin Living

Seasonal Sout hern Meal

Buttermilk Hill chef shares recipes for Christmas

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STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

ake a detour from the traditional route to the Christmas dinner table this year and serve rack of lamb with caper cream sauce from Buttermilk Hill Restaurant Chef Kara McClendon Bacchi. Blending old Southern charm with new Southern cuisine at this landmark Sylacauga restaurant and bar since 2006, Bacchi encourages holiday cooks to be inventive this season with a menu that features lots of butter and heavy cream and showcases the natural flavors of the entrée and sides.

The Buttermilk Hill chef bases her dishes on basic, traditional knowledge but develops her menu on a philosophy of taste, not measurement, she said.

“Don’t over season,” Bacchi advised. “Taste; and then, add.

Don’t just add. I don’t use measuring spoons – just a pinch of this and a pinch of that.”

The pinches of ingredients help to prevent overpowering the light, natural flavors. Bacchi exercises caution in her methods, as she adds ingredients a little at a time, which helps her more closely control the plate. Cooking to the underside of recommended temperatures on steaks, for example, allows her to put the meat on a little longer to bring it up to order more precisely, she said.

She serves the lamb on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes with a side of tender-crisp asparagus seasoned with salt and pepper – a perfect complement to the delicate, tender lamb.

Buttermilk Hill Restaurant and Bar, located at 300 E. Third St. in Sylacauga, is a historic Victorian home that features the heavy plaster crown molds and embellished trims of a bygone era. The house offers private dining rooms, full bar service and an outdoor marble patio.

Visit the website at www.

Inventive Menu buttermilkhillrestaurant.com or call Rack of lamb in a 256-207-1001 for reservations. But caper cream sauce could make a delicious the restaurant is closed on Christmas holiday dinner; Inset: Day, so be a little inventive and Chef Kara McClendon prepare this tempting platter for the Bacchi shows off her holiday table this year. bread pudding.

Lake Martin Living 17

Open for Service

Buttermilk Hill Restaurant in Sylacauga is decorated for the holidays.

Rack of Lamb Cut four bones from rack. Season with dry rub, salt and pepper. Add olive oil in an oven-safe sauté pan.

Heat to smoking point. Sear lamb on both sides. Put in 450-degree oven for 15 minutes (cooked medium). Let rest. Cut into four pieces between bones.

Plate over mashed potatoes and asparagus and drizzle with caper cream sauce.

Mashed Potatoes Cut Yukon gold potatoes into quarters and boil until softened (about 20 minutes). Strain. Add unsalted butter, heavy cream and salt and pepper to taste. Using a whisk, mash the potatoes and stir until mixed well.

Caper Cream Sauce Stir together heavy cream, a sip of white wine, salt and pepper in a small sauté pan. Heat on medium and stir as the sauce reduces. Add a small spoonful of capers and further reduce until thickening starts to occur.

Turn heat to low. Add more cream if it’s ready too soon.

18 Lake Martin Living

Asparagus Steam asparagus in chicken stock until tender. Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.

Peach Bread Pudding Ingredients: One long loaf of sandwich bread 3 eggs Small can of peaches 1 cup sugar Quarter gallon milk Vanilla bean ice cream Sorghum syrup Directions: Mix all ingredients together.

Spray crock with cooking spray.

Fill with mixture.

Cook at 450 degrees for one hour.

Top with vanilla bean ice cream.

Drizzle with sorghum syrup.

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Lake Martin Living 19

Changing the rules of the game

F

From the Tee

olks, whether you play golf golf ball and proceed without penalty. competitively or for leisure, it’s There are some very worthy changes to the important to take note of the rules, and there are some odd ones. Either way, upcoming changes in the Rules of Golf they will be the rules under which all golfers for 2019. There are significant modifications should play. that could alter how the game is played for all The USGA has published a great new rules book levels of golfers. titled, The Player’s Edition of The Rules of Golf. This Take a little time to visit the United States book is easier to navigate, and it covers most rules Golf Association website at usga.org. The USGA that players encounter. Both, the Player’s Edition has produced a variety of videos that simulate and the Rules of Golf include more illustrations for many of the rules’ changes to make them easier added clarity. for golfers to grasp. Here a few changes: On the USGA website, players could order • On the putting green, you may leave the the new Rules book. Additionally, golfers are flagstick in the hole, as there will be no penalty encouraged to purchase the Player’s Edition for should your ball strike the flagstick. reference.

Dave Jennings • When dropping a ball for relief from a Golf is a constantly evolving sport, and some of cart path; ground under repair; a dangerous these new rules could be omitted or changed in the situation; casual water; or with a penalty from a penalty area, next few years. you no longer drop the ball from shoulder height. Now, a Equipment changes the game constantly. This summer, golfer will drop the ball with his hand near his knees. This The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (governing will help if a golfer takes casual water relief in a bunker. body of the Rules of Golf located in Scotland) contacted me • When dropping a golf ball from a penalty area or in for my opinion. I spent approximately 45 minutes on the free relief, in the past, should your ball roll within two clubphone, discussing the distance that golfers get from present lengths outside of the drop area, the ball would be deemed in equipment and the conditions found on most golf courses. play. Under the new rules, the ball must come to rest within I am very happy to see this organization reaching out to the one or two club lengths of the drop area. acquire feedback on this subject.

• To me, this is one of the biggest changes in the rules: I totally agree that the PGA Tour players are much more On the green, should a golfer find spike marks or any other athletic than in the 1960s and 1970s; however, I believe that imperfections on the surface between the ball and the hole, the ball should be rolled back. Rolling back the ball would except for a pitch mark left by a golf ball, he could not repair decrease the velocity that a ball comes off the clubface. these. Under the new rules, a golfer may now repair or tap Today’s balls seem to have a turbocharger within the core down spike marks. This is huge when following golfers who that allows it to travel much farther in comparison to the cannot pick up their feet. (Or if playing golf in Florida older three-piece golf balls. where long-billed birds have dug The manufacturers already have the into the putting surface for insects or technology in place. I would like to see worms.) the best players’ shots not travel quite as • Time to search for a missing ball far, allowing the regular amateur golfers has been changed from five to three to not be affected. The length that college minutes. or tour professional golfers are able to hit • I was amazed with this one: Loose the ball is a bit out of control, which has impediments may now be moved antiquated some golf courses. This extra within a penalty area. If the ball comes distance has turned the PGA Tour into a to rest inside a red line or staked area, smash-and-gouge sport. I preferred the in the past – should a pinecone be game when it was more about precision behind the golf ball, a golfer was not and finesse. I hope to see it revert to this allowed to move it. In 2019, a golfer style of play within my lifetime. may do so without penalty.

I am hoping for a long fall-like close • Notice that I have used the term to 2018 and wish everyone happy penalty areas? This is the new term for holidays! what we used to call hazards.

See you on the first tee.

• In the past, if a player was searching for a golf ball and were to step on it or ~ Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach accidentally kick the ball, that player at Central Alabama Community would have been penalized. Not so in the College. new rules. The player shall replace the 20 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 21

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Who is Mr. Market?

I MONEY MATTERS

f you have ever studied investing, you dividends reinvested. Through this period, we would know that Mr. Market is the name have had world wars, depressions, recessions Benjamin Graham (Warren Buffett’s and 18 presidents (eight Democrats and 10 teacher at Columbia University) gave as Republicans, including Trump). Considering an allegory. As Graham explains, Mr. Market this, American business has done exceptionally can be very pessimistic or wildly optimistic. well.

Some days, he comes to you and gives If history is any indication, American you great deals, and other days the deals business will continue to prosper through aren’t quite as good. The point being, he is more turbulence, and Mr. Market will continue emotional. to knock on your door to offer you wild price Investing can be an emotional process. I swings. When he does, keep in mind how far define investing as money you are willing to we have come, what your strategy is and the risk in exchange for a potentially higher rate resiliency of American businesses. of return. The key word here is risk. When It’s easy to get caught up in a lot of the noise. you take on risk, you are accepting a level Find someone you trust that can help you Lee Williams of volatility. There is nothing wrong with manage expectations and noise to design a this. It isn’t something in which to be scared strategy that fits you and your family’s needs. or panicked over. The key is to understand what you are Good luck! buying and the strategy as to why you are buying it.

Also, at times, Mr. Market will give you wildly Some of this information was found at Guardian.com different prices for the same businesses (stocks). and Truth Concepts.com.

During these wild swings, you will read commentary from people who will try to capitalize on your fears ~ Lee Williams is a financial advisor and emotions. Do your best to avoid the noise. Market with Nowlin and Associates Wealth timing is something that most people often get wrong.

Management in Alexander I believe the saying, “time in the market, not market City. He can be reached at timing,” is most appropriate. Be cognizant as to why you lee@NowlinWM.com or are a partner of Mr. Market and the strategy behind that 334-703-3454. decision.

I’ve read every annual report that Warren Buffett has written. He has many great lessons to be learned in his reports. One of my favorite history lessons from Buffet is when he discussed America from 1776 to today. Looking back on America’s history and how far we have come over the last 242 years is amazing.

Shorten this to just the last 100 years and think where we were in the early 1900s compared to today. Think about where the stock market was 100 years ago versus now.

For those of you who don’t know, the S&P 500 Index has compounded at a little more than 11 percent from 1930 to 2017 with

Lake Martin Living 23

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Precious Memories Monogramming & Boutique Jalee Lovejoy, Owner preciousmemoriesgiftsandmore@gmail.com 10147 County Road 34, Dadeville, AL

256-496-4017

719-360-5027 82 Court Square Alexander City Bill Nichols #13

Chapter Service Officers available for claims assistance every 2nd and 4th Wednesday from 1:00 pm 5:00 pm

Meetings held every 3rd Monday at 82 Court Square, Alex City

Featuring watercolors

by Steve Taylor

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, Sat, 1- 5pm Or by appointment 129 N. Tallassee St. • Dadeville, AL 36853 256.307.0017 • info@rainingdogs.art www.rainingdogs.art

ALEX CITY’S ONE STOP SHOP FOR ALL OF YOUR VAPING NEEDS & MORE! We carry Top Brands with Bottom Pricing.

We Have: SMOK, Ijoy, Sigelei, Joyetech, VooPoo, Vandy Vape We Have: Candy King, Ripe, Element, Lemon Twist (full line), Bad Drip + MANY MORE!!

Come visit our knowledgeable staff and let us show you how we make quitting easy.

We offer a wide range of landscaping services specializing in hardscapes, retaining walls, sod, drain work and much, much more!

Our project territory covers Montgomery, Auburn and Lake Martin!

Luke Walker - Owner

334.391.1270 proscapesoutdoors.com

, Alexander City w.mainstreetac.org

The staff at Tallapoosa Publishers would like to wish our readers a Merry Christmas.

256-234-4281 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City

Vapor Queen 171 South Main Street, Alexander City Open til 7pm Mon. - Fri. 256-392-4319

EmporiumWine WINE BEER PREMIUM CIGARS CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS

WINTER 2018 COLOR & HOLIDAY GIFTS

~ Celebrate the season responsibly ~

256-329-8852 11 Main Street, Alexander City, AL

Lake Martin Living 25

On the road with Zac Brown Alexander City native crews for Grammy-winning group

STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY AMY PASSARETTI AND ANDY SAPP

A

lexander City native Jake Bartol has worked as a sound technician with the world-famous touring group Zac Brown Band, a multiplatinum, Grammy Award-winning Southern rock group, for almost 10 years.

26 Lake Martin Living

“Zac and the band are so easy to work with because we’re friends before anything else, which is rare to effectively mix business and personal,” said Bartol.

From having no prior experience in the field, Bartol learned to be the monitor engineer for Zac

Brown Band at the beginning of the band’s career. His main task was to coordinate radio frequencies that were used for each show. By controlling eight wireless channels and watching the members on stage, Bartol learned to anticipate the bands’ needs.

“I basically got paid to pay attention to what they’re doing on stage,” he said. “Now I know what they want before they even ask for it.”

As the radio frequency and monitor technician Bartol handles 52 wireless channels now.

“Originally, I was mixing, tuning guitars, everything. There were only two crew members. Now we have close to 100,” said Bartol. “Andy Hill solely mixes Zac’s sounding, and my job is to control the rest of the band.”

The local celebrity was

Home Additions

Jake Bartol's first big construction project for his new Auburn home was this swing bed.

introduced to Zac Brown before he was famous.

In 2001, Bartol and a college friend, Eric Roderick, began Lake Martin Living 27

Off-season Job

Top: Bartol (inset) used a variety of materials to build a gazebo and outdoor dining table.

28 Lake Martin Living

working the lights and sound for bands at the Dixie Tavern in Marietta, Georgia. This is where Bartol first met Zac Brown, who performed on occasion at the bar as a Georgia local playing at small venues and trying to garner attention.

Eventually, Bartol left for Los Angeles and began working in Hollywood as a location scout for movie sets. Roderick stayed behind to work with Brown’s band exclusively, as a sound technician.

“At least two or three times a year, Eric would call me and try to convince me to join Zac and the band on the road. They had begun touring with a single van and trailer but were starting to play at more popular venues,” Bartol said.

Finally worn-out from the Hollywood lifestyle, Bartol moved home to Alexander City in 2008; then, he accepted Roderick’s persistent offers and took the job with Brown.

“I was literally hanging from a rafter, doing some home improvements, when Eric called. I finally said, ‘OK. I’ll do it,’” he added.

Zac Brown Band’s first hit single, Chicken Fried, had just been released.

“We all knew it was going to happen – that the band was going to take off and make it big – from the time we met,” said Bartol. “It’s been very cool to be there from the ground floor of it.”

During the first tour after joining the team, Bartol was on the road in a tour bus for nine straight weeks.

“It was just awesome. It was a bonding experience for the crew, all across the country,” he said. “It was exhausting, hilarious, frustrating, but it was a large dose of ‘this is what being on the road looks like’ all at once.”

By the end of that trip, Bartol said, he was fairly proficient in his new skills. They were doing three shows a day, between radio, promotional gigs

and concerts at night.

“It was stressful, but I got lucky working with these guys. They gave me a long leash to work with and allowed me to make mistakes, knowing I wouldn’t make the same ones twice,” he added.

As a result of his tenure, Bartol has experienced first hand the growth of the band. A core of four or five members kicked off the initial fame, and now there could be up to eight or nine back up instrumentals on stage, depending on the show. The one van has been expanded to 11 buses, and the crew has come and gone but grown exponentially.

“Zac’s good about collecting good people and being able to be friends with them. He’s just a good dude – a good guy,” said Bartol.

The main touring months are March through October, but Brown ensures his team has a couple of days at home each week. If it’s an album year, the band could perform up to 75 shows around the nation, said Bartol.

Famous Friends

Left: Bartol is the moniter engineer for Zac Brown Band; Right: Zac Brown (brown hat) gears up for a show with his crew.

“The biggest thing to do is just be easy going, bust your butt and don’t make wake. You have to maintain a good attitude. I’ve seen a lot of guys wash out that can’t do that.”

At the first Grammy Awards show that the band attended, Brown asked Bartol to take part in a music video.

“I said, ‘I have the perfect character.’ And so, Flody Boatwood was born, and has since appeared in multiple videos,” said Bartol with a grin.

Check out Bartol in character during Zac Brown Band videos Toes, Knee Deep and Jump Right In. But Bartol doesn't plan to live on the road forever. His side hobby creating furniture is his future business goal.

He creates sturdy pieces with a variety of materials, including wood, metal, concrete and more. Currently, he has built a pergola for his new backyard, along with a porch swing and picnic table. His 3-year-old son’s bed – or fort as he affectionately refers to it as – that resembles a tree house is another one of Bartol’s projects.

“Or basically anything my wife wants, I figure out how to do it,”

Bartol said.

Coming from a family of artists, including but not limited to his father, Mac, and his sister Annie, it’s evident that creativity runs in the bloodline.

“It’s hard not to start making things if you grow up around my dad.

I was always taking my toys apart and trying to figure out how they worked.

I didn’t always get them put back together the right way though,” he added with a chuckle.

“Whatever pops into my head and inspires me – I just figure out how to make that as I go,” he said.

Since joining the band 10 years ago, Bartol has married his wife, Blair, and together they’ve had one son, Atticus Blue. Six months ago, they moved from Georgia to Auburn to be closer to family in Alexander City. In the off-seasons, he hopes to cultivate his furniture business, but he's in no hurry to leave the band.

“If it was any other band, I don’t know if I would have lasted as long.

I still enjoy it though and am so thankful to work with such amazing guys,” said Bartol.

Lake Martin Living 29

Cozy up in the countryside Festive offerings evoke holiday spirit at Pursell Farms STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY SHANNON MCDUFFIE

W

inding through rolling hills, green pastures and an 18-hole research golf course will take visitors to the cozy countryside Inn at Pursell Farms in Sylacauga. Natural, traditional and tasteful holiday adornments greet guests as 30 Lake Martin Living

they arrive and throughout the common areas of the inn.

“The whole feel of the farm is relaxed luxury.

It’s sophisticated but homey,” said Leslie Bryant, communications manager at Pursell Farms.

Ellen Pursell, wife of CEO David Pursell, brought to life

the inn’s interior furnishings. Pursell, along with family friend Melony Vickers, were the artistic minds behind the inn’s seasonal decorations throughout the farm, as well.

The lobby evokes a country ambiance with wood floors, fine rugs and high ceilings. A large Christmas tree stands elegantly decorated next to a garland-filled mantle over a gas-burning fireplace.

“The ornamental style varies a little throughout the inn, but the entrance is a more classic feel. They used a lot of natural elements and greenery,” said Bryant.

The lobby also contains Marble Valley Mercantile, which Pursell and Vickers oversee and manage.

Other areas of the 40-room inn sparkle with more gold and glitter, while some retain a vintage feel to vary the elements throughout guests’ accommodations.

As the newest addition Holiday Adornments Clockwise from left: Christmas to the growing resort trees are trimmed with natural destination, the inn elements; Local celebrity Jim opened in March and is a donated the pool three-story country estate- Nabors table that's housed in Old styled building with two Tom's Pub; Common areas restaurants. Arrington is at the inn are decorated upscale fine dining. It’s for the season. open for breakfast and dinner and seats about 90. Old Tom’s Pub seats about 80 and is a more laid-back, pub-styled bar opened for lunch, dinner and late-night cocktails, including seasonal delights.

The section of the building containing the restaurants used to be the administrative building, explained Bryant.

“It was re-designed for the restaurants; and then, the Lake Martin Living 31

guest rooms were added on to the structure,” said Bryant.

Situated against a scenic layout, the brick and clapboard exterior of the inn are complemented by stone and brick elements.

To maintain this atmosphere, the decorations feature pheasant feathers, antlers, pinecones and more. Due to the partnership with Orvis Shooting Grounds, Pursell wanted to acknowledge those features as well.

“It’s really a mixed material style. I’m sure next year they’ll mix up some pieces to keep it fresh,” said Bryant.

To supplement the holiday adornments, Pursell Farms hosts many Christmas activities throughout December.

Every Saturday in December will be Christmas in the Pines with UTV mountain Relaxed Luxury tours that end at a beautiful Top: Fireplace mantles lookout. Guests will be feature antlers and greeted at the top of the trail pheasant feathers with a hot chocolate bar and throughout the garland; snacks.

Left: A Conecuh Coffee Christmas Eve, Arrington is the inn's play on Irish will host a special Christmas coffee; Facing page clockwise from top left: dinner available by A portrait of Tom Morris reservations only. After, there hangs at the entrance will be a reading of ’Twas the to Old Tom's Pub; Some Night Before Christmas in the areas have more glitz lobby for the kids. and gold to spruce up The morning of Christmas the adornments; Grab a will be relaxed, allowing seasonal cocktail at the families or couples to partake late-night bar.

32 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 33

Renovated Building in their holiday traditions,

said Bryant. There will be a complimentary continental breakfast in Old Tom’s Pub for guests.

“The pub is named for Tom Morris, who is considered the grandfather of superintendents of golf courses and worked at the prestigious St. Andrews in Scotland. We use a lot of his course practices today,” Bryant said.

Pursell Farms began as the world’s first and only research and demonstration golf course to study the affects of fertilizer on courses’ grasses.

“Farm Links opened in 2003, and David Pursell used to invite superintendents from all over the world to stay and examine the turf, grass and fertilizers. Hosting these guests is where the need for hospitality came in,” Bryant explained.

Additional cabins and cottages were built around the farm to accommodate families, golf groups and more. There also are a few historic properties on site.

“The Hamilton House has a very tasteful trimming of a classic Christmas tree and a mantle with garland,” said Bryant.

The space where the restaurants sit used to be the administrative building.

The outdoor patio boasts a firepit and scenic view.

34 Lake Martin Living

Situated in Old Tom’s Pub is an iconic pool table donated by hometown celebrity actor Jim Nabors, best known for his role in The Andy Griffith Show. Famous people that had played on the table in his Bel Air home are photographed on the wall in the pub.

This month, Pursell Farms also offered sugar cookie decorating classes and an open-flame cast iron cooking demonstration by Executive Chef Andrea Griffith, who partnered with Yellowhammer Brewing. Sea Island Forge out of Georgia forged the cast iron kettles that were used.

Each month on Fridays and Saturdays, resort guests have the option of complimentary yoga classes. Historic walking tours, Palmers in the Past, provide guests with an Arnold Palmer as they learn about the area’s history. The 30-minute demonstration ends with hors d’oeurves on the patio.

The backyard features a large sun deck and a stone fire pit for leisurely downtime in front of panoramic views.

Guests could enjoy a Christmas cocktail in front of the fire pit to stay warm and enjoy the fresh, country air.

The Southern comfort of Pursell Farms has a variety of activity choices, including golfing, hunting, horseback riding, the spa experience, UTV mountain adventures and more. Farm Saturdays weekly feature seasonal experiences from art classes, cooking lessons and more.

For more information, visit pursellfarms.com.

OH SNAP! 1

4

All is Well

2

3

6

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Dec. 2, 2018 ACT II Fine Arts Center 1. Jacob and Rob Iler 2. Beverly Howard and Mollie Barrett 3. Rodney Meadows and Keith Garrett 4. Libby Glass and Tony McKeel 5. John David and Staci Pemberton 6. Steve Pemberton and Jimmy Shivers 7. Christale Tucker 8. Kristen Powell

Lake Martin Living 35

OH SNAP! 1

4

Holiday Open House

Downtown Alexander City 1. Casey Teel and Tracy Dalton 2. Judy Macon

4. Anthony Zawacky and Emily Cantrell 5. Beth Formby 6. Mrs. Claus and Santa Claus 7. Lexi Key, Katie Campbell and Lacee Key 8. Beverly Howard and Rodney Meadows

36 Lake Martin Living

3

5

6

7

Nov. 11, 2018

3. Donna Robbins and Bobby Grant

2

8

OH SNAP! 1

2

3

4

5

6

Christmas at the Crossroads Nov. 23, 2018 Russell Crossroads 1. Lila Dostal and Denise Graves

2. Greg Cochran and Lee Hamilton 3. Elizabeth and Kate Clinton, Martha Blanton and Kitty and

7

Hollis Clinton 4. Scott and Linda Goslin 5. Deanna Marable and Brandi Worthy 6. Charlee and Mason Whitaker 7. Blair, Glenn and Barbara Badham, Austin Wilson, Mary Ellen Badham, Miller Wilson and Crawford Badham

Lake Martin Living 37

OH SNAP! 1

2

3

Benjamin Russell v.

Stanhope Elmore basketball

4

5

Dec. 6, 2018 BRHS Gym, Alexander City 1. Marilyn Owens, Sharmaine and Sequoia Stowes 2. Trequavious Holley, Patricia Jackson and Keeley Powell 3. Emma Culligan, Brooke Bowden, Tiffany Roberts, E’lajha Hall and Jeriah Freeman 4. Taishanna George 5. Onaje Brooks, Stefan McCall, Shar’Ida Evans, Paisley Hutchins and Jatori Leonard 6. Regan Ashworth and Laci Thomspson

38 Lake Martin Living

6

OH SNAP! 2

1 3

4 5

6

Dadeville Tree Ligting Nov. 25, 2018 Downtown Dadeville 1. Kim Walls, Bill Toney, Ron Pierce, Madelyn Stallworth-Ward, Stacy Stallworth and Elaine Toney 2. Doug and Emily Patterson 3. Stephanie and Kason Luster and Addyson Hendrix 4. Samantha, Joshua and Bella Burks 5. Rick and Mitzy Hidding 6. Damon and Hunter Bastian

Lake Martin Living 39

Calendar

THE LAKE REGION

FEATURED EVENT

Cash in on a good time New Year's Eve Put on the fancy attire and ring in the New Year in style. The Lake Martin Young Professionals will host a Casino Night on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, at The Mill Two-Eighty.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and the night ends at 1 a.m. after a midnight champagne toast. The event is open to anyone over the age of 21.

Alliance Casino Events and Game Rentals will bring authentic casino games, including blackjack, Texas Hold ’em, three-card poker, craps, roulette and slot machines. Chips, dealers and décor will complete the casino feel. Games will be open until 11 p.m., with a prize raffle at 12:15 a.m. Every $500 in chips a player has left at the close of the games is traded in for a raffle ticket.

Tickets are $50 per person and include $1,000 in chips to play the games, prizes, live entertainment, food and the champagne toast. Ocie & Belle’s cash bar will serve up cocktails and beverages all night.

The evening is presented by MXK Events & Weddings. Tickets can be purchased online at lakemartinyp.com/casinonight or from a YP member.

Casino Night For more Slot machines are information, contact among the many Jacob Meacham at games that will be 256-234-3461. available.

40 Lake Martin Living

Dec. 15

Jan. 12-13

Fundraising is under way for this annual splash in the Camp ASCCA pool to raise money for camp scholarships.

Camp ASCCA offers exciting and unique camp experiences for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities.

Donate to the campaign at campascca.networkforgood.com or contact Kasey Langley at kasey@campascca.org to sign up for the jump.

Alexander City Theatre II will hold auditions for a Valentine’s production of Love Letters by A.R. Gurney at 10 a.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday at the ACT II Fine Arts Center, 216 Tallapoosa St. Two characters, Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III, discuss their hopes, dreams, disappointments and victories through the letters they exchange over a 50-year relationship. The play requires no memorization. Performances will be staged at the ACT II Fine Arts Center Feb. 14-17 and will include a dinner theatre option on Valentine’s Day. For information about the auditions, email actheatreii@gmail.com.

Jingle Jump for Camp ASCCA

Dec. 15-16

The Magic of Christmas

The Talisi Historical Preservation Society’s Friends of Tuckabatchee will present the Christmas program, The Magic of Christmas at 7 p.m. Dec. 15 and 2 p.m. Dec. 16. The story is based around the Faulkner family during the Great War. Set in the backdrop of the mountains and filled with classic songs of Christmas, this family-friendly performance is filled with the Christmas spirit. Tickets are $10, and advanced purchases can be make at mtvernontheatre.net.

Dec. 21

Free Comedy at Standard Deluxe

The Little House at Standard Deluxe in Waverly will host a night of comedy hosted by Rivers Langley and featuring David Perdue, Samm Severin, Ben Sawyer, Monika Scott and Joe Raines. The event is free of charge and begins at 8 p.m.

For more information, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

Dec. 31

New Year’s Eve Party at The Rodeo Club

Dixie Red will be live on stage at the Lake Martin World Famous Rodeo Club from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets are $10 and will include a champagne toast at midnight and party favors. Visit the Facebook page for more information.

Jan. 7

Open Studio

The Artists Association of Central Alabama will start the New Year with an open studio event at the Senior Center in Dadeville from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Beginners are welcome. If your New Year’s resolution includes painting more, being in a group could help you fulfill it. For information, email vkfincher@aol.com.

Jan. 12

Kowaliga Country Concert

Country music icon Doug Stone will take the stage at The Rodeo Club. Special guest appearance by Kevin Moon who also will perform, along with an acoustic performance

by Jonboy Story. The event will run from 7:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. VIP tickets are available for $97.50 with a two-ticket minimum. General admission tickets are $20. For more information, visit Kowaliga Country 97.5’s Facebook page.

Jan. 12

Live at The Little House

Country performer Ray Scott will entertain live at the Little House at Standard Deluxe. Gates will open at 6 p.m. when Chef Brian Cosby will serve supper. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15, and capacity is limited to 50 people.

For tickets or more information, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

Auditions

Jan. 13

Annual Community Fashion Show Extravaganza

The Gloria Boleware Network will present the 40th anniversary of its fashion show held at Passion Church, 3340 Hwy. 63, Alexander City. The evening will feature Pamela Crawford and Kenyatta Jackson Strait. Dionne Whetstone will be master of ceremonies, and there will be a stylist on site. Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 at the door; and $20 for VIP. The show starts at 3 p.m. For information, call 256-307-0617.

Jan. 17

Artists Association of Central Alabama

This general meeting will be held at 11:30 a.m. at the Senior Center in the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex. Activities will include a demonstration and a raffle for art supplies.

Jan. 19

4th Annual Polar Plunge

Doors open at Kowaliga Restaurant at 10 a.m., and the foolish and the brave take the plunge into Lake Martin’s winter waters at noon. Tickets are $20 and include live music, food, non-alcoholic beverages and photo ops. A cash bar also will be available. Funds raised benefit Lake Martin Resource Association. Purchase tickets online at lakemartinyp.com.

Jan. 24

The Heart Behind the Music

Alexander City Arts will host this songwriters showcase with Teddy Gentry, John Ford Coley and Lenn LeBlanc.

This show offers up-close-and-personal insight into some of the greatest music ever written. The show will be held at the Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium and will begin at 7 p.m. For information, contact Mary Wood Perry at 256-749-8073.

Jan. 27

Live at The Little House

Michelle Malone will perform at Standard Deluxe on the indoor stage at 7:30 p.m. Malone is a singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer whose music is influenced by blues, rock-and-roll and Georgia soul. Tickets are $15, and seating is limited. For tickets and more information, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

Lake Martin Living 41

Season-Long Events Millerville Trade Day

Bibb Graves School on state Route 9 hosts this trade day on the third Saturday of every month from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Find books, toys, models, coins, lamps, original artwork, jewelry, clothing, antiques, glassware, quilts, home décor and more. Refreshments are available.

Alabama Wildlife Federation Naturalist Hikes

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 closings.

​Alabama Wildlife Federation Creature Feature

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 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 www.alabamawildlife.org to check holiday closings.

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library holds themed storytime every Wednesday at 10 a.m. for preschool-aged and younger children. In addition, the children’s library hosts board games and puzzles every Thursday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information, call Melissa Finley at 256-234-4644.

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.

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

Meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus.

Participants come and go between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5 p.m., followed by show-and-tell. Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.

Real Island Supper

The Real Island community hosts a covered dish supper every third Friday of the month (second Friday in December) at the Real Island Volunteer Fire Department and Community Room, 1495 Real Island Rd., Equality.

Everyone is welcome. Admission is $3 per adult; bring a 42 Lake Martin Living

covered dish to share. Some nights are themed, so call ahead to find out if costumes or certain types of food are in order.

For information, contact Dianne Perrett at 256-329-8724.

Charity Bingo

Play charity bingo at Jake’s Restaurant at 16 Broad St., Alexander City at 6 p.m. every Thursday night. Cards are $1, and proceeds benefit local charities.

Open Studio

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

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. to 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.

Library Storytime in Dadeville

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

To have an event listed in Lake Martin Living's calendar, email details to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

Lake Martin Living 43

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

21

280

20

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

16

22

Flint Hill Church

24

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

14

Rockford

3

49

128

22

Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek 63 State Park

COOSA COUNTY

Jacksons Gap

Pleasant Grove Church

32

11

9

Mt. Zion Church Russell Farms Baptist Church 33 Friendship Church New Hope Church

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

25

7

6

Smith Landing

Seman

Camp Kiwanis

9

28 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

Ko w

ali

ga

2

Stillwaters

22 5

Union Landing

Ba

27

Walnut Hill

y

23 31

80

Lake Martin Baptist Church

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing

4

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

8 63 19 9

Equality

55

18

10

57

Willow Point

231

Dadev

280

Liberty Church

20

24

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

30

Union

90

50

Central

Red Hill

17

63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic Santuck Kent

Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

14

120

13

29 14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

44 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

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

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

1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010 22 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133

6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853 23 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 24 Foshee What's, LLC 256-234-3298 2802 Dadeville Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 25 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt @ Smith Marina 256-444-8793 26 Off the Beaton Path 21322 U.S. Hwy 280 W, Dadeville, AL 36853 (205) 708-3127

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 12 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

26

13 Acapulco Mexican Grill 334-283-2725

2867 Gilmer Ave., Tallassee, AL 36078

280

Waverly 50

15

Churches 28 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820

8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 29 Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 334-252-8618

2602 Gilmer Avenue, Tallassee, AL 36078 30 Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293

8352 Highway 50, Dadeville, AL 36853

Dock Builders 14 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481

5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, Al 35010

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

180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

15 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036

230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

32 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400

6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Business & Shopping

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

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

LEE COUNTY

Hotels & Lodges 27 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440

6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

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

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024

Recreation & Entertainment 33 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

18 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853

Loachapoka

19 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

14

Notasulga

ON TY

85 81

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

Lake Martin Living 45

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

ALEXANDER CITY

liveoakagency.com 334.285.2881 4791 Main Street Millbrook, AL 36054

We BuY & seLL!

Jewelry

GOLD • SILVER • PLATINUM ANTIQUE & MODERN DESIGNER INDIVIDUAL PIECES & WHOLE COLLECTIONS

Coins

GOLD • SILVER • PLATINUM

DIMES, QUARTER, HALVES (1964 & EARLIER)

GOLD & SILVER BULLION

THE HOLIDAYS ARE RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER

CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND DECEMBER 1 & 2

Antiques. VintAge. RetRo. Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 4 pm

District NiNeteeN

19 Sistrunk Street, Tallassee, AL 36078 334-517-5307 | www.districtnineteen.com 46 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

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

WALNUT HILL

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA

The Wetumpka Herald

(334) 745-7966

primehomehealth.net

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

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

Healthcare Provided in the Comfort of Your Own Home Skilled Nursing Care • IV Medication Medication Education • Disease Management Post Operative Care • Wound Management Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Lake Martin Living 47 PHH17_HalfPg_Magazine_8.2017_2.indd 1

8/24/17 3:14 PM

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

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• 60 MONTHS, NO INTEREST *for qualified buyers*

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

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WOODCRAFTS

QUALITY, CUSTOM-BUILT

1096 Airport Drive | Alexander City AL | 256.392.4866

48 Lake Martin Living

AD INDEX A&M Plumbing.................................................................................... 6 Advanced Heating & Air.................................................................... 4 8 Beyond Home Care............................................................................ 2 2 Bob Alexander Landscaping .............................................................. 1 5 Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation......................................................... 4 7 C&C Wood Products.......................................................................... 4 7 Cahaba Glass....................................................................................... 5 Carlisle's......................................................................................24 Cloud Nine........................................................................................24 Cornerstone/Scotty Gordon...........................................................24 DAV............................................................................................25 DAVCO Development........................................................................ 4 8 Designs by Trish................................................................................... 6 District Nineteen................................................................................ 4 6 Downtown Mainstreet.......................................................................51 Emporium Wine.................................................................................25 Four Seasons..................................................................................... 4 8 George Hardy, D.M.D.......................................................................... 6 Gilbert Woodcrafts.............................................................................48 Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance...................................................... 4 8 Heritage South Credit Union................................................................ 8 Jackson Thornton............................................................................. 2 1 Lake Martin Dock........................................................................ 48, 49 Liveoak Agency, Inc.......................................................................... 4 6 Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance................................................ 4 8 Kelley’s Heating & Air........................................................................ 4 8 King's Bridal.......................................................................................42 Lacey Howell/ReMax...........................................................................43 Merle Norman....................................................................................25

Millstone Nursery................................................................................. 6 Noel Boone........................................................................................48 OBGYN Associates of Montgomery................................................... 2 2 Odd Jobs..............................................................................................5 O'Neal Electric..................................................................................... 8 Ooh La La Creations............................................................................24 Patsy and Buzzy Wagenfuehr/RealtySouth......................................24 Precious Memories Monogramming & Boutique..........................25 Prime Management........................................................................... 4 7 Proscapes Outdoors..........................................................................25 Raining Dogs Studio Gallery..............................................................25 Red Flag Pest Control.......................................................................... 6 River Region Dermatology.................................................................. 4 8 Russell Medical.................................................................................. 5 2 Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................. 2 1 Sittin Pretty Pet Grooming & More......................................................24 Southern Sash..................................................................................... 5 Southern Star Alpaca Farm.................................................................22 Surgical Dermatology......................................................................... 1 5 Sunrise Docks.................................................................................... 1 5 Swearingen Fence.............................................................................. 4 7 UAB Heart and Vascular......................................................................52 Vapor Queen......................................................................................25 Veritas Lake Martin............................................................................24 Wind Creek Casino.............................................................................2 Wind Creek Zipline...............................................................................3 WSC Distinctive Builders, LLC..............................................................47

Lake Martin Living 49

Style a festive soundtrack

L

Culture Shock

ife has a soundtrack – especially song. In my Camp Fire group, I portrayed during the month of December. the five golden rings and would scream it at Christmas decorations explode in the top of my lungs. I know every word. retail stores beginning in October, My grandfather thought it was hilarious but radio is more kind. DJs wait until and used to have me stand on a chair in the the week of Thanksgiving before subtly old Piney Woods and perform it for patrons. sprinkling holiday music amongst the Top I happened upon a great Rolling Stones’ 40. article of the best Christmas albums, They know people are trapped in their while doing research for this column. In cars either traveling to or hiding from their no particular order, I personally plan to families; running to Winn Dixie for the download the following throwbacks this 10th time that week; finding the perfect last season and recommend you do the same: minute gift; or crying because all the lights on the tree went out.

• Ella Fitzgerald’s Ella Wishes You a Swinging Mine did that this year. I do not think I Christmas (1960) can type expletives in this column, but you • The Carpenters’ Christmas Portrait (1978) Lacey Howell can guess what I said.

• Johnny Cash’s Christmas with Johnny Cash All musical genres create Christmas music (2003) – blues, rap, country, R&B, reggae and even • A Very Special Christmas 1987 (mix of ’80s surf rock, such as the Beach Boys. All singers will take greats) a stab at classics like Santa Claus is Coming to Town or This holiday season, please also download John Jingle Bells.

Legend’s newly released album A Legendary Christmas.

What is Christmas without Bing, Frank or ~ Lacey Howell is a Lacey’s top five favorite Christmas songs: Elvis? Bing Crosby’s White recovering English major Christmas still holds The from Auburn who now 1. Mariah Carey – All I Want for Christmas Is You Guinness Book of World lives on Lake Martin, sells Records title for the bestreal estate, rides horses and 2. Gayla Peevey – I Want a Hippopotamus for selling single of all time. loves good wine (but isn’t Christmas When I hear 12 Days scared of box wine). She of Christmas, I am is still bothered that Brad 3. Paul McCartney – Wonderful Christmas Time transported back to the and Angelina broke up.

4. Alabama – Thistlehair the Christmas Bear mid ’90s when I was a Follow her on Facebook and part of an obnoxious and Instagram @LaceyHowell.

5. Dean Martin – Let It Snow bawdy live rendition of the 50 Lake Martin Living

Lake Martin Living 51

We are UAB Medicine - Russell Medical Cancer Center And we’re in your corner.

If you fight cancer, home is your fortress.

If you fight cancer, you seek to focus your energy On beating the disease, not traveling exhausting miles searching for your care.

If you fight cancer, you fight here, Where your people live and your soul is strong, In this corner of the world Where the whisper of wind through pines Brings peace and tranquility And a summer storm breathes new green into the earth.

For we are UAB Medicine - Russell Medical Cancer Center This is where we’ve built our team of expert physicians, Who’ve faced down these deadly cells before And won --- compassionate physicians Who treat patients where we live So that if you fight cancer, you stay here to do itHere in your home.

We are UAB Medicine - Russell Medical Cancer Center And we are in your corner for the fight.

And best of all, we’re in your corner of the world.

Exceptional care just around the corner 256.329.7888 • russellcares.com • uabmedrussellcancer.com 3446 Hwy 280 Alexander City, AL 35010