June 2019 Lake magazine

Island Life

Grill like a winner

n

Wind Creek Putt Putt

JUNE 2019

LAKE 1

A love of nature starts early.

Ours did too.

Did you know that frogs are an indicator of the health of water systems? At Alabama Power, we’ve been helping manage and protect Alabama’s natural resources for more than a hundred years, partnering with organizations across the state to preserve the health of our river ecosystems.

Plus, we work hard to care for wildlife habitats and give endangered species the chance for a future. Because we love nature – and frogs – as much as you do.

AlabamaPower.com/Environment

© 2019 Alabama Power Company

JUNE 2019

LAKE 3

Staff

Letter from the Editor

J

une on Lake Martin is ripe with opportunities, and I’ve never been more excited to tell you about them than in this month’s issue of Lake magazine.

From grilling to dreaming, sailing and so much more, living the good life is easy here on Lake Martin, and this issue of Lake magazine is filled with tips, contacts and even a few unveiled secrets to help you make the most of those opportunities for a great summer at the lake.

The secret spilling starts on page 42 with Alabama Wildlife Federation’s Lake Martin Wild Game Cook-off winner Daniel Thompson, who shares how he grills like a winner. Thompson, his wife, Shanna, and their 5-yearold son, Owen, brought home four awards − including Best Overall. And it was just their first time to enter the annual event, which is held at Lake Martin Amphitheater.

They told us how they did it; everything from what to buy to when to start the ribs at what temperature and what to serve with the winning entrée. Everything except Daniel’s secret recipe – we just couldn’t get him to part with it.

Of course, any great meal at the lake requires a great venue, and we found a location that will make you kick off your summer sandals and jump in – a private island now on the market at Lake Martin. It’s not often that a property like this becomes available at the lake, so here’s your chance to learn about its rich Lake Martin history before it’s gone. Turn to page 62 for the story.

If sailing is your sweet summer dream and you’re up for a challenge, the Dixie Sailing Club Youth Program has a great opportunity for you: a restoration project. During last fall’s Renew Our Rivers cleanup at Lake Martin, DSC made plans to salvage an abandoned boat. DSC volunteers, with the help of TowBoatUS, LMRA and Alaabama Power Company, recently floated and towed the vessel to the club grounds and put a ‘For Sale’ sign on it. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the DSCYP. Find details on page 30.

And now, you can take all these great stories and more out on the lake with you via your cellphone or mobile device! We’ve launched a new Lake magazine website that you can keep right on your home screen, so you can snap and send Lake Scene photos in real-time; check the weather; or get details for all the lake events you want to attend. The lakemagazine.life site includes more photos, more news, videos and online-only content to keep you connected to the lake you love. Check out our new website and turn to page 19 for more details.

It’s summer at the lake again, so settle in. Lake Martin offers boatloads of opportunities that will last all summer long – and the living doesn’t get any easier or better than this.

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor 4 LAKE

JUNE 2019

Chairman KENNETH BOONE

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Publisher STEVE BAKER

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Managing Editor BETSY ILER

editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Assistant Magazine Editor AMY PASSARETTI

amy.passaretti@alexcityoutlook.com

Art Director AUDRA SPEARS

audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com

Circulation ERIN BURTON

erin.burton@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing/Advertising Director TIPPY HUNTER

tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing KATIE WESSON

katie.wesson@alexcityoutlook.com

MARILYN HAWKINS

marilyn.hawkins@thewetumpkaherald.com

JULIE HARBIN

julie.harbin@alexcityoutlook.com

JOLIE WATERS

jolie.waters@alexcityoutlook.com

SHANNON FILYAW

shannon.filyaw@tallasseetribune.com

Digital Advertising Director KAT RAIFORD

kat.raiford@alexcityoutlook.com

Digital Advertising Coordinator ELLE FULLER

elle.fuller@alexcityoutlook.com

Creative Services DARLENE JOHNSON

darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com

SHELLEY MCNEAL

shelley.mcneal@alexcityoutlook.com

Contributors KENNETH BOONE STEVEN ARNBERG JULIE HUDSON CLIFF WILLIAMS LONNA UPTON GREG VINSON ROB MCDANIEL GABRIELLE JANSEN

LIZI ARBOGAST BEN WATTS JESSE CUNNINGHAM MATT SHEPPARD MARK GILLILAND JUSTIN CLAYTON JEFF LAMONICA JIMMY WIGFIELD

All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of: Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

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

On the Cover Summer has come to Lake Martin, and that means – among a lot of other things – spectacular golden sunsets over our beautiful Treasured Lake. Rays of evening sunlight shine in glorious array over the islands that dot our own heaven on Earth – like this sunset over Hawaii Island at the mouth of Blue Creek. Lake Martin's islands are ideal for picnicking, swimming and spending leisurely hours away from the stress and busy-ness of life. Photo by Kenneth Boone

www.Scag.com

DESIGNS

BY TRISH - Custom Bedding - Draperies & Upholstery - Blinds & Shades

Now Serving the Auburn Area

Call Trish Ogburn for an appointment 334.315.0667 Find us on Facebook!

1584 US-280 | ALEXANDER CITY

6400 Highway 63 South, Alexander City, AL 35010 docksunlimitedllc.com (256) 203-8400 Check out our Facebook Page: Docks Unlimited

JUNE 2019

LAKE 5

Sarah C. Sommerville Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS 932933

FIRST COMMUNITY a division of First Community Bank of Central Alabama

Expert in Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA Financing

334-512-0016

ssommerville@fcbcamortgage.com 715 W i l s o n s t r e e t W e t u m p k a , al 36092

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FCB NMLS 460892

Contents 19. TAKE LAKE TO THE LAKE Take our easy-to-navigate new site at lakemagazine.life to the lake with you 24. HOW TO HAVE A GREAT TIME AT JAZZ FEST This year's two-day concert series features six bands at Strand Park and The AMP 26. SUN FESTIVAL What's new this year at Alexander City's annual celebration of all things summer

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30. FOR SAIL A rescued Coronado 27 needs a new home and looks forward to further adventures on Lake Martin 33. REGISTER NOW FOR ART COLONY This year's annual gathering of artists offers comaradarie and instruction in technique 34. RUSSELL MARINE IN-WATER BOAT SHOW This year's show was better than ever with 160-plus boats on display and record attendance 42. GRILL LIKE A WINNER AWF Lake Martin Wild Game Cook-off champs reveal their grilling secrets 48. FUNDERBURK HOUSE Montgomery couple emphasizes the views – inside and out – at their Lake Martin home 58. FIND YOURSELF ON THE CRATA TRAIL Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association launches GPS location on trail maps 62. ISLAND LIFE A historic private island at the lake is up for sale and shares her story 66. WIND CREEK PUTT PUTT GOLF Wind Creek State Park opens Lake Martin's first puttputt golf course

LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES:

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9. LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE TO THE LAKE 10. LAKE SCENES 15. WHERE IS LAKE? 16. LAKE MARTIN NEWS 17. LETTER TO EDITOR 20. LAKE MARTIN EVENTS 38. NATURE OF THE LAKE 70. FAB FINDS

72. BEHIND THE BOAT 75. HOBO 76. LAKE PROPERTY 78. CHEF'S TABLE 80. HEALTHY LIVING 82. BIG CATCHES 84. CHEERS! 87. PAR FOR THE COURSE

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

JUNE 2019

LAKE 7

Celebrating 25 Years!

Stop by Today!

SUN - THU 10:30am - 9:00pm FRI - SAT 10:30am - 10:00pm Southern-Style Cuisine Catering Available from 5-500

6684 Hwy 49 South 256-825-4827

at Blue Creek

Dr. George W. Hardy General Dentistry

A Place To Worship Lake Martin Area Churches

OFF WATER

OFF WATER

OFF WATER

Church of the Living Waters Inside StillWaters, Dadeville 256-825-2990

First Baptist Church Court Square, Alexander City 256-234-6351

Alex City Church of Christ 945 Tallapoosa Street, Alexander City 256-234-6494

New Hope Baptist Church 529 Peppers Road, Alexander City 256-329-2510

Hillabee Baptist Church Hillabee Road, Alexander City 256-234-6798

Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 2602 Gilmer Avenue Tallassee, AL 36078 334-252-8618 (12 Miles South of Lake Martin)

WATERFRONT

Church in the Pines Kowaliga Road, Kowaliga 334-857-2133

OFF WATER Equality United Methodist Church 281 AL Hwy 259, Equality 334-541-4063

Red Ridge United Methodist Church 8091 County Road 34, Dadeville 256-825-9820

First Baptist Church 178 South Tallassee Street, Dadeville 256-825-6232 First United Methodist Church 310 Green Street, Alexander City 256-234-6322 First United Methodist Church West Lafayette Street, Dadeville 256-825-4404

St. James Episcopal Church South Central Avenue, Alexander City 256-234-4752 Lake Martin Baptist Church 9823 County Road 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-825-7434 Lake Pointe Baptist Church La 8352 Highway 50, Dadeville, AL 36853 256-373-3293 Faith Temple Church 425 Franklin Street, Alexander City 256-234-6421

St John The Apostle Catholic Church 454 North Central Avenue Alexander City, Al 35010 256-234-3631 Flint Hill United Methodist Church 2858 Flint Hill Road Alexander City, AL 35010 256-234-5047 Good News Baptist Church 10493 Hwy 280 Jacksons Gap, AL 36861 256-825-2555

Small Space Advertising Works.

Call Jolie Waters 256-414-3174 & ask for Lake Church Page

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JUNE 2019

Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators Sales Month

Number of sales

Average selling price

Median selling price

Days on the market

Total houses for sale

Inventory/ sales ratio

27 24 22

$616,714 $508,908 $412,164

$400,000 $375,000 $370,000

225 146 243

286 353 408

11.52 12.31 21.19

April 2019 April 2016 April 2013

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

Two signature lake events team up for 10-day celebration

Free game teaches boating BoatUS offers a fun and interactive way to learn and review the basics of safe boating: simulated games.

The browser games, located at www.boatus.org/games requires no special log-in – just click and play. Two of the games teach docking skills and navigational rules. A third game offers a simulated day-trip experience, including depth, fuel and speed measurements and scoring opportunities.

Due to its large size, the file must be downloaded to a computer. View system requirements and follow on-screen instructions to install.

Lake Martin's signature event this month is actually two long-standing area celebrations under the umbrella of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce.

Jazz Fest began in Alexander City in 1991 as part of a birthday celebration for a local department store.The owners of Frohsin's hosted live music in their parking lot on the shop's 100th anniversary.Though the store closed several years after the music started, the festival lived on and even expanded to include six bands in two venues over the second weekend in June every year since that first concert. It was then – and continues to be – free.

Sun Festival launched from the Alexander City chamber office in late July of 2013 with a week of summer activities

Weather Outlook for June

June 2019 Forecast

Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the mid- to upper-80s with average lows in the mid-60s and about 4.5 inches of precipitation in the month of June. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures and rainfall will be in the normal range this month.

Year to Date

Precipitation: 23.84 inches Avg. high temp.: 65.9 Avg. low temp.: 41.6 Avg. temp.: 53.8

Our Normal June Precipitation: 4.45 inches Avg. high temp.: 87.7 Information from the Avg. low temp.: 65.6 National Weather Avg. temp.: 76.7 Service.

JUNE 2019

for all ages and abilities, including its signature daily medallion hunt, contests, pet parade, arts, music and more.

It was just two years ago that the two celebrations teamed up to present Sun Festival's popular activities and events during the week preceeding Jazz Fest. Sun Festival kicks off this year on June 6 with a free concert in Strand Park; then, the 29th Annual Alexander City Jazz Fest will close out Sun Festival with a two-day concert series at Strand Park and The Lake Martin Amphitheater.

Learn more about Sun Festival Alexander City at the event Facebook page.

Check out the line-up for this year's Jazz Fest at www.alexcityjazzfest.com or on the Facebook page.

Last Month's Lake Levels Summer: 491 MSL Winter: 481 MSL Highest: 490.56 Lowest: 490.27 Lake depth is measured in reference to mean sea level. For up-to-date water levels at the lake, visit the website lakes.alabamapower.com.

Lake elevations are subject to change.

Individuals who recreate below Martin Dam and those with boats and water-related equipment on the lake should always stay alert to changing conditions.

LAKE 9

Lake Scene n People & Places

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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READER SUBMISSIONS (1) Bell and Max took a boat ride to Kowaliga Marina early in the year. (2) Emilee and Parker Ewing celebrate summer on Lake Martin at their grandparents' Point Windy dock. (3) Connie Wheatley found early morning beauty while kayaking Lake Martin. (4) Cheryl Gainer McCall captured this firey Lake Martin sunset at her parents' house on Powell Drive. (5) Randy McClendon sent in this photo of an osprey pair protecting a nest near Willow Point. (6) Vada Brooks flies a kite at StillWaters.

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JUNE 2019

Lake Scene n People & Places

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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READER SUBMISSIONS

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JUNE 2019

(1) The sun is not really setting trees on fire at Lake Martin, but it sure looks suspicious in this sunset photo sent to us by Tony Johnson. (2) At the end of the rainbow, Lisa Culligan found a pot of gold – Lake Martin! (3) Tate and Cole noodled this 20-pound catfish out from under the McKelvey family's Lake Martin pier. (4) Tatum Moseley took a photo of this spectacular sunset at Dog Patch Hollow on Lake Martin. (5) The azaleas in the Gainers' yard under Smith Mountain were spectacular this year, as always.

LAKE 11

Quick Facts •11 bedrooms •9 bathrooms •11,439 sq. ft. approx.

•1.05 acres

Lakeside Retreat at Lake Martin’s Bayou Lodge!

257 BAYOU ROAD

DADEVILLE, AL 36853

E stablish yourself among the best in lakeside living at 257 Bayou

Road—a stunning 10,000+ squarefoot lodge on the Dadeville side of Lake Martin!

This exquisite property features an eight-bedroom, eight-bathroom lodge as well as an attached guest house with three bedrooms and one bathroom. With a wealth of space to to relax or entertain, 257 Bayou Road is ideal for large families, corporate events, or even running a bed and breakfast. Rental income for this property is projected at $150,000 for the year 2019! And did we mention?

It comes fully furnished and offers parking for 10 vehicles!

In the main lodge, indulge in lake views from all angles with an abundance of natural light flooding the floor-to-ceiling windows. A large great room, kitchen and dining area form the staple common spaces of the lodge, where gathering indoors is a pleasure for all parties involved.

The main level also houses a private master’s retreat, complete with lake views, his and hers sinks, a garden tub and separate shower.

Residents of the guest house won’t be lacking luxury either! The guest house features its own spacious living room, kitchen, garage access and of course, those spectacular uninterrupted Lake Martin views.

Interested in learning more about 257 Bayou Road? Contact Ryan Roberts today at 334-750-9872, or visit www.ryanrobertsrealtor.com/contact.

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JUNE 2019

In addition to extensive interior square footage, 257 Bayou Road wins in outdoor amenities. From the avid boater to the expert lakeside lounger, everyone has a place to thrive. Highlights of the outdoor area include 2,000 square feet of deck space, private sand beach for swimming, fire pit and large covered boat house with two slips.

Besides this estate’s long list of outdoor recreational amenities, residents and visitors also have ample opportunities to entertain themselves indoors. The main lodge also includes a game room and movie room.

Jump on this opportunity to own a slice of lakeside paradise while it’s still available!

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

JUNE 2019

LAKE 13

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

It’s a vision.

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

A v i si on for c rafti ng plac es we wa n t to b e .

Introducing our communities on Lake Martin: Kennebec – Lots starting in the mid-$100,000s Talisi Cove – Homes starting in the high-$300,000s

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LAKETOWNAL.COM JUNE 2019

Where is Lake? n People & Places 1

Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

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READER SUBMISSIONS (1) Sherry and David Willis took Lake to GarmischPartenkirchen, Germany, in December. (2) Bill Oliver and Dr. Suzana Maloparac-oliver read Lake magazine in their front yard in Mijas, Spain. (3) Jordan and Mackenzie Chapman took Lake magazine to the Exumas over the Christmas holidays. (4) Lake went to Maui, Hawaii, with Bobby Vinson, Randy Dawkins, Jenny Kiser, Kathy and Haley Dawkins and Ginger Caldwell. (5) The BRHS varsity softball team took Lake magazine to the Gulf Coast Classic II in Gulf Shores. (6) Miriam and Billy Moore, Cindy and Carl Thompson, Tamie and Damon Story, Debbie and Neal Butler and John and Judy Ireland took this year's award-winning January issue of Lake to Maui.

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LAKE 15

Lake Martin News

Boaters are cautioned to slow down and operate safely as 'No Wake' buoys are placed at scene of fatal accident

New buoys placed after fatal accident

New ‘No Wake’ buoys at Lake Martin’s Bridge to Nowhere will demand vigilance from boat operators in the high-traffic area north of Chimney Rock.

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency this week authorized Lake Martin Resource Association to place four ‘No Wake’ buoys north and south of the Bridge to Nowhere after an Auburn man was killed May 3 in a double accident in the vicinity.

David George Goodling, 56, was killed when the ChrisCraft he was driving was struck twice about an hour apart near the bridge that is south of The Ridge Marina, said Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Central District Commander Capt.

Gary Buchanan. At approximately 8:30 p.m. that evening, Goodling’s boat collided almost head-on with a Sea Ray vessel operated by Norman Ray Harris. About an hour after the first collision, another boat struck Goodling’s vessel in the same area of the lake.

“We believe the fatality occurred at the first collision,” Buchanan reported in an ALEA press release.

After the initial collision, Harris contacted a friend and was transported to a hospital.

Apparently left to drift, Goodling’s damaged boat received a glancing blow from a second vessel about an hour later. The operator of that boat turned around, located Goodling’s vessel and towed it to The Ridge Marina. He called 911 and reported 16 LAKE

that the Chris-Craft had significant damage from a previous crash, and he reported a body in the boat, Buchanan said. The accident remains under investigation.

LMRA President John Thompson said marine police contacted the organization about placing ‘No Wake’ buoys in the accident area on May 21, and the buoys were placed the next day.

“Our buoy team put out two buoys on each side of the bridge,” Thompson said. “They are 35 to 40 yards from the bridge to the north and to the south, far enough away that boaters should be able to see them and slow down their approach.”

The buoys were placed well away from the shoreline and are not lighted. Thompson said LMRA has no lighted ‘No Wake’ buoys in inventory. Lighted buoys for the area would cost the organization nearly $2,000, he explained.

Especially at night, the new buoys could present a hazard to boaters who are unaware of their presence, as from the southern approach, the buoy would be positioned between the boat and the bridge pilings.

The bridge is just a short distance from the popular and congested Chimney Rock area of the lake, and Thompson said he expects that the buoys will have significant impact on the traffic flow there.

“There are only two ways to go through that area to get from the Kowaliga side of the lake to the Wind Creek side. One of them is to go through the Chimney Rock area, which is very

JUNE 2019

congested, especially on weekends. The other way is to go through that narrower pass and under the bridge. It’s shorter to go through by the bridge, and people go faster there. But they are going to have to slow down.

“It definitely changes the dynamics of the area,” Thompson said. “The message is pretty clear: Slow down and be aware of other boats around you. Boaters are going to have to take things a little slower.” ~ Betsy Iler

Jumper injured at Chimney Rock

Authorities said an Enterprise woman was conscious and alert after emerging unconscious following her jump May 18 from Acapulco Rock, known to Lake Martin area residents as Chimney Rock.

The incident was witnessed by Gina Hicks, who was passing by early that evening.

“My husband and I were going to Chuck’s Marina to eat,” Hicks said. “We stopped for a brief moment.”

Hicks said there were about six boats in the area when the 33-year-old woman jumped from the highest formation at about 5:30 p.m.

“She was up there with a friend,” Hicks said. “She jumped; she didn’t come up for a while. When she did, she was limp.”

Hicks said she was unsure if the jumper hit anything below the waterline.

“I did see her jump off,” Hicks said. “I didn’t see her hit rock.”

Hicks said a pontoon moved in to rescue the woman while the jumper’s friend stood at the top screaming the jumper’s name.

“I called (911),” Hicks said. “They said a couple people had already called. They drove her to The Ridge Marina. We went on to eat at Chuck’s. When we came back through we could see water rescue and an ambulance at The Ridge.”

Capt. Gary Buchanan, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency central district commander, said the woman was knocked unconscious.

“She was transported by Alex City ambulance to Russell Medical. At last report she was conscious and alert,” Buchanan said.

Hicks said after seeing the incident, she has already warned her three teenagers.

“You see some do backflips and stuff from up there and nothing happens,” Hicks said. “This one, though, scared me.

I have already talked to (Hicks’ children) and told them don’t ever jump off that rock. It is just too dangerous.” ~ Cliff Williams

Sturdivant honored

Alexander City Schools Superintendent Dr. Keith Lankford last month commended outgoing school board member and Russell Lands COO David Sturdivant for his commitment to the community, its students and teachers.

“You’ve laid a great foundation for others to follow,” Lankford said.

Sturdivant served on the local school board for 10 years and said he is proud of the city’s school system and the work of the entire board during his tenure. ~ Gabrielle Jansen

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

BY FRANK P. RALPH

Dear Editor, It may be time to remind the owners of the current fad in sportsboats that create huge following wakes that the boat owner is responsible for shoreline and property damage caused by those wakes.

This past weekend in our slough, which is decent sized at its opening to the large water but quickly tapers down, two of these boats were causing havoc with shore installations without regard for the consequences and oblivious to the residents trying to warn them off and out to the much larger area.

We do not have “no wake” markers, but perhaps we should. It seems to us that some reminders may be a good idea before this situation gets out of control. Much has been discussed about it over the last couple of years, but no affirmative action has been taken to remedy the problem.

Frank P. Ralph, Attorney at Law

t Our ls! u O pecia Check

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•Chicken ’n Dumplings •BBQ Chicken •Smoked Turkey •Ribs •10 Shrimp •BBQ Brisket

VEGETABLES: Green Beans, Fries Fried Green Tomatoes, Chili, Sliced Tomato & Onion, Corn on the Cob, Blackeyed Peas, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Cole Slaw, Fried Okra, Turnip Greens, Lima Beans and Rice

HWY. 22 WEST, ALEXANDER CITY (Off Hwy. 280) 2 5 6 . 32 9 . 9 9 9 6

JUNE 2019

LAKE 17

Andrea Gardiner 678-776-2108

13 Carrie Marie Drive, Dadeville AL 36853 18 LAKE

JUNE 2019

Take Lake to the lake

R

Right from your phone while you’re out on the boat, you now can submit Lake Scenes photos to Lake magazine; check the calendar for fun happenings around the lake; and monitor the weather on Lake Martin, all via the new lakemagazine.life website. Launched last month, Lake magazine’s new website is easier to use and more informative than ever before, featuring more of the beautiful photos you’ve come to love in the magazine’s pages.

“One aspect of this new website that I’m very excited about is the photo submission ability. Now, you can snap a great picture, fill in a little information on the website and send it to us real-time without missing a minute of fun,” said Lake’s Managing Editor Betsy Iler.

“There’s more lake news, gorgeous lake homes, nature stories and wakeboarding trick tips. With just a swipe, you can find out where your favorite lake musicians are playing, see videos at the Screaming Eagle zip line, pull up Rob McDaniel’s great recipes while you’re standing in your lakeside kitchen – even pull up an e-edition of a past issue of Lake magazine.”

In the People section, you’ll meet the folks behind the scenes who make Lake Martin a great place to live, work and play. You’ll find tips to improve your golf game or catch more fish, information about Lake Martin’s flora and fauna and instructions for mixing a great lakeside cocktail.

Use the slide-in menu in the upper left corner of the screen to navigate to lake homes, nature stories, boating and waters-

ports articles. Scroll past the top photos to submit a photo or see what’s happening this weekend at the lake. Follow Lake magazine with clickable links to our social media accounts.

Check out our videos on popular attractions and read onlineonly content between print issues of Lake.

“The team at Lake magazine has worked for nearly six months to design a website that will help you have a great experience at Lake Martin, with the information you want at your fingertips,” said Lake’s Publisher Steve Baker. “Lake Martin is all about experiences, and at Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc., we’ve built a reputation on bringing that sense of experience to you in the pages of Lake.

“With the new website for Lake, as well as Lake’s sister magazines – Lake Martin Living and Elmore County Living – we’ve designed elements that will enhance the time you spend here with friends and family even more because that’s what being at Lake Martin is all about.”

In addition, the site features our new live online directory, TownSquare, a tool that promotes business via award-winning copy, mapping capabilities and links to other sites.

Visit the new site at lakemagazine.life on your cellphone, laptop, notebook or desktop.

To gain an even larger clientele, invest in website media to reach your audience through Lake magazine’s print or digital products, email marketing@alexcityoutlook.com. Research shows that more time is spent on content-rich sites, and the new lakemagazine.life site goes above and beyond.

Easy as 1, 2, 3 on iPhone and Android Step 1. iPhone: Open Safari and go to lakemagazine.life.

Touch upload icon.

Step 1.

Android: Open Chrome and go to lakemagazine.life.

Touch the menu icon in the top right corner.

Step 2. iPhone: Touch Add to Home Screen.

Step 2.

Android: Touch Add to Home screen.

JUNE 2019

Step 3. iPhone: Touch Add and you're done.

Step 3.

Android: Touch Add and you're done.

LAKE 19

June 1 LMRA Annual Meeting

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

June 1 Dylan LeBlanc and The Pollies

June 5 Legacy Christian Sports Camp

Legacy Builders and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes have partnered to bring a slate of speakers and coaches from around the state to lead children in grades one through six in baseball, fishing, tennis, baton and dance from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City. The camp is free, and lunch is provided. For registration and information, email legacychristiansportscamp@gmail.com.

June 6 Wakeboard/Wakesurf Clinic

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

Standard Deluxe will host Dylan LeBlanc with guest star The Pollies at the Little House indoor stage at 7 p.m.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Gates will open at 5:30 p.m., and supper will be available for purchase in WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN the FeedShak. For tickets or more information, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

June 1 Pop Art, Paint and Pinot

Lil' Calypso will feature 60-plus local artists on June 8

Head to Pursell Farms in Sylacauga at 6 p.m. to paint along with pop artist Tim Spanjer and take home a keepsake work of art inspired by ’60s pop artist Roy Lichtenstein.

Sample Oregon Pinot Noir with a catered dinner

by Executive Chef Andrea Griffith. The cost per person will be $75 (exclusive of taxes and gratuities) and includes dinner, wine, paint, canvas and brushes.

Reservations are limited and can be made by calling 256-2084402. For additional information, visit PursellFarms.com.

June 3 Summer Reading Program Kickoff

Mamie’s Place Children’s Library kicks off its annual Summer Reading Program at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex gym from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Gutsy Fox, a gymnastic family, will perform from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and Skin & Bones Comedy Circus will entertain from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Children of all ages are welcome to attend. For more information, call the library at 256-234-4644.

June 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25 & 27 Youth Golf at Lakewinds

June 8 Little House Show in Waverly Standard Deluxe will host Kristina Murray and Riley Downing at its indoor stage for the last Little House concert until the fall. For information and tickets, visit StandardDeluxe.com.

June 8 Intro to Sailing

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

June 8 Lil’ Calypso

Chuck’s Marina will host this 17th Annual Art Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Held right on the water’s edge, this art fest will feature more than 60 regional artists to include quality crafts, jewelry, pottery, paintings, photography, metal work, furniture and more. For more information, visit Chuck’s Marina Facebook page.

Alexander City’s municipal golf course will host youth clinics for ages 8 to 14. Call Jim Gunnells at 334-559-4791 for registration and information.

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June 8 National Marina Day & Customer Appreciation Russell Marine locations at Kowaliga, The Ridge, River North and Real Island marinas on Lake Martin will celebrate with free hot dogs, chips and drinks for the family. Visit www. russellmarine.net for details.

June 11 Still Life in Acrylics

Artist Nan Cunningham will lead the second summer series session at Tallapoosa School of Art. This beginner’s level oneday workshop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. includes tuition, lunch, coffee, tea, bottled water and snacks. For more information, email dorothylittleton@gmail.com.

June 12 Guided Geocaching

Learn what a cache is and how to find the caches that are hidden in Wind Creek State Park. Download the geocaching app on your cellphone at geocaching.com; and then, meet the guide art 10 a.m. at the beach parking lot for a tutorial and help finding the caches.

June 6-15 Sun Festival

Celebrate summer in the Lake Martin area with nine days of contests, music, kids’ activities and more. See page 26 for details.

June 14-15 Jazz Fest

The free two-day concert series returns to Strand Park in Alexander City and The Lake Martin Amphitheater for the 29th year. Visit page 24 for the lineup and other details.

June 15 Miss Lake Martin Pageant

The annual Miss Lake Martin Pageant will be held at the Dadeville High School Auditorium with more than 100 contestants vying for the crown. Contestants compete in casual wear and evening wear, and Miss/Elite Ms. contestants will answer on-stage questions. The Baby/Little Miss pageant will start at 11 a.m., and the pre-teen/Elite Ms. will start at 6 p.m.

The Miss Lake Martin 2019 winner will be presented with a $2,000 cash scholarship. Admission to the event for spectators is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-12. Ages 3 and under are free. For more information, call Brittany McGregor at 334-332-4701, Stormy Hubbard at 256-596-2155 or email misslakemartinpageant@gmail.com.

June 15 Brett Cobb & Them at Standard Deluxe

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

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

June 18 All Wakesurf Clinic

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

June 22 VCCA Summer Bazaar

Rain or shine, Volunteer Connections of Central Alabama will hold its annual summer bazaar from 8 a.m to 12 p.m. behind Karen Channell’s State Farm Building and inside the VCCA office. This event will benefit two local non-profit organizations – Lake Martin Laubach Literacy Council and VCCA. Come by for plants, baked goods, james, jellies, flea market items and handmade pieces. Interested vendors should email Carley Cummins at carleyatvcca@gmail.com or call her at 256-234-0347.

June 26 Trail Scavenger Hunt

Complete a nature scavenger hunt while hiking the Campfire Trail at Wind Creek State Park. Meet at the trailhead in the North Picnic Area at 10 a.m. for the 1.8-mile hike. Dayuse fee applies for non-campers.

July 4 Russell Marine 43rd Fourth of July Boat Parade

Decorate your boat and join the patriotic crowd at Kowaliga Marina as boats of all sizes, shapes and decorations will parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor, circling just past the lighthouse. Spectators line the banks along the parade route to applaud their favorite patriotically decorated boats and contestants. Registered boats will vie for top honors for the Largest Flag, Tallest Flag, Most Patriotic and Most Creative.

Call 256-397-1210 or visit www.russellmarine.net for times and entrant information.

July 4 Fireworks and Concert at The AMP

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

July 5-6 13th Annual Lake Martin Rodeo

The Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin area will host its annual two-day rodeo at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in the Horse Riding Arena. The gates will open at 5 p.m. and there will be live entertainment from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

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before the rodeo starts. All proceeds support the local boys and girls club, which has become a staple in the community with more than 1,000 people in attendance each year. Tickets can be purchased at Tractor Supply, Depot Pawn and Gun, Kowaliga Country and the office of the Boys and Girls Club of the Lake Martin Area, at 1009 Cherokee Rd. For more information, contact Misty Chadwick or Melissa Reynolds at 256-234-4757 or email Misty at chadwick.misty05@gmail.com.

July 5-6 8th Annual Arti Gras

Artisans and patrons from all over the Southeast will display and sell their handmade goods at Russell Crossroads from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. This is a juried art show, and all works must be original and handcrafted. For more information or to be a vendor, call 256-212-1443 or contact Tyler Mitchell at tmitchell@russelllands.com. The deadline to sign up is June 21.

July 9-12 Stillwaters Junior Golf

Golf Pro Rob “Gabby” Witherington will conduct a fourday junior golf clinic for children ages 6 through 12 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Stillwaters Golf Course in Dadeville. Cost is $75 per child for the four-day clinic and includes instruction, lunch on all four days, trivia fun, games and prizes on the final day. Clubs are not mandatory, but those with clubs should bring them. Course members are urged to sign up this month; public sign-up opens July 1. Call Gabby at 334-618-9615 for registration and details.

Season-Long Events Wine Tastings

Catherine’s Market will host a wine tasting from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays through the summer. Admission is $5, and participants will receive 15 percent off any wine purchases from the evening’s selections.

Alexander City Farmers Market

The farmers market at Broad Street Plaza will be open on Saturdays through September. Find fresh produce – including blueberries, tomatoes, peppers, beans and corn – along with honey, jams, jellies, handmade art and more. Vendors will be on site from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Contact Main Street Alexander City at 256-329-9227 for information.

Children’s Library in Alexander City

Martin campus of Children’s Harbor and the Family Center at Children’s Hospital. Call 334-857-2008 for more information.

Friday on The Green

Every Friday night from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., wind down your busy week on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads with live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.

Bring chairs, coolers, blankets and your pup on a leash. For the artist lineup, visit RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com.

NaturalistPresentationsandGuidedNatureTours Naturalist Marianne Hudson fills the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads with children and adults to see and listen to her lively nature presentations with critters, insects, snakes and fowl, just to mention a few. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature in the wild and the outdoor classroom. Check the calendar at Calendar.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com for the scheduled subject matter, dates and times.

Trivia Night at Niffer’s on the Lake

Every Thursday, Niffer’s hosts trivia night at 7 p.m. Winners receive Niffer’s gift cards. First place gets $40; second place gets $25; and third place gets $15. Grab a group of friends and come out for a night of games. A bonus question is posted on the Niffer’s Facebook page at 2 p.m. Thursdays.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

The third Saturday of each month, volunteers throughout the community are encouraged to meet at Broad Street Plaza at 8:30 a.m. to pickup supplies and area assignments and help clean up the roads within Alexander City. For more information, contact Jacob Meacham at 256-234-3461 or email him at jacob.meacham@alexandercitychamber.com.

Music on the Deck

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

Strand Sessions

Lake Martin Young Professionals will host a concert in Strand Park in downtown Alexander City on the first Thursday of each month through August. Come out to enjoy some live music on the lawn from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The family-friendly concerts are free to attend. Bring coolers, chairs, blankets and food or support local downtown merchants. For more information and artist lineup, visit lakemartinyp.com.

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.

Worship on the Water

Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store

Yoga on the Green

On state Route 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 22 LAKE

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

Perfect for beginners or seasoned practitioners, this free yoga session starts at 7 a.m. on The Town Green at Russell Crossroads every Saturday throughout the summer. Just bring a mat and water.

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How to have a great time at Jazz Fest

T

STORY BY BETSY ILER

The 29th Annual Jazz Fest – Alexander City’s and Lake Martin’s free signature summer event – opens at Strand Park on June 14 and moves to The AMP on June 15, featuring six bands and drawing to a close the city’s nine-day Sun Festival celebration.

Several thousand attendees are expected to descend upon Alexander City’s downtown for the Friday night concert, which will showcase three bands, including The Bank Walkers, Sam Burchfield and The Scoundrels, with Willie Sugarcapps closing the first night of the concert series.

The next day takes the fun to the scenic hillside at Lake Martin Amphitheater. Nikki and The Phantom Callers kick off the show at 6 p.m. with Southern Gothic rock ‘n’ roll. The lead vocalist is a Dadeville native. Empire Strikes Brass will have the audience on their feet with their vivacious and funky beats for the mid-show, and at 9 p.m., headliner Honey Island Swamp Band will close the 29th Annual Jazz Fest series.

Honey Island Swamp Band has been tagged as a Bayou Americanastyled group.

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Marketing and Special Events Kim Dunn reminded concertgoers of closed roads, picnic and beverage policies at Strand Park and sponsor support for the free event.

“Sometime after about 10 a.m. – as we’re getting set up at Strand Park – Bibb Street will close from Tallapoosa to Alabama,” Dunn said.

“Alabama Street and Tallapoosa Street will close from Madison to Franklin shortly before the concert begins. Motorists should be prepared to take an alternate route in the area.”

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Honey Island Swamp Band

Empire Strikes Brass

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SUN FESTIVAL If the grandkids can only spend one week at Lake Martin, Sun Festival week should be it. In addition to funfilled days on the boat, this month offers nine days of magic, including a pet parade, medallion hunts with cash prizes, $2 movies, glow-in-the-dark golf, sundaes, water slides and more in downtown Alexander City.

Pick up a schedule of more than 50 activities and opportunities at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce office and the Lake Martin Innovation Center on Aliant Parkway and mark your calendar for the events you want to attend. Pre-register for those activities that have limited capacity. Pack a water bottle and a snack; put on your sunscreen; and you’re all set to have a great time at this annual celebration of summer.

This year’s event includes the new Tykes in Trucks event with all manner of truck-type vehicles for kids to climb on, sit in and play. There will be ambulances, fire trucks, tow trucks, a street sweeper and more. This event is free, and there will be live music and kids’ games.

There will be a magic show at the children’s library and an art lesson – with supplies provided – at Luck of the Draw studio on Broad Street Plaza.

Come out to The Mill Two Eighty for Bingo and celebrate America’s heroes at Bill Nichols Veterans Home. Fermenter’s Market will host trivia night with the Lake Martin Young Professionals, and the kids could even enter a pie in the baking contest.

The seventh annual Sun Festival wraps up with Alexander City Jazz Fest on June 14 and 15: six bands; two days; two locations. Tons of fun.

It will be an incredible week of food, friends, family and fun. Follow Sun Festival Alexander City on Facebook or visit alexcitychamber.com for details.

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The Bank Walkers

Parking for the concert is available throughout the downtown area, from the City Hall lot to Calhoun Street and the Hamp Lyon Stadium area; Broad Street Plaza and the old chamber office on Tallapoosa Street.

Downtown restaurants will be open for dining-in and carryout, and there will be food vendors on-site at Strand Park, Dunn said.

“Picnicking is allowed at Strand Park but no cooking or grilling,” she said. “Pick a spot on the hillside to set up lawn chairs and blankets, but please leave pets at home. They are not allowed at the park for this event.”

Strand Park is in the downtown arts and entertainment district, so concertgoers could purchase alcoholic beverages at downtown restaurants and bars and bring them to the park.

Personal coolers are allowed as well.

Canopy tents will be allowed at the top of the hill only, Dunn said.

“Don't set up a tent any place where it would block other people’s views,” she explained.

The first band starts at 6 p.m., but concertgoers are welcome to set up their spots on the grass any time after 4 p.m.

Sponsors will be setting up their tables at that time, as well.

“Please make a point of going around to look at the sponsored table decorations. These sponsors help to keep Jazz Fest free every year, and we would appreciate it if people would support our sponsors,” Dunn said.

In addition, T-shirt sales for both Sun Festival and Jazz Fest help to keep this event free.

Shirts are on sale now at the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce on Aliant Parkway and at selected local retailers. Any remaining T-shirts will be available for purchase at the concert, but Dunn said, early purJUNE 2019

Willie Sugarcapps Nikki and The Phantom Callers

Sam Burchfield and The Scoundrels

chase is recommended.

“There is a limited supply of T-shirts this year, so be sure to shop early to get the sizes you want,” she said.

Local artist Audra Spears won both T-shirt design contests for Sun Festival and Jazz Fest. This is the first year that one artist has swept both design contests. Jazz Fest shirts are $10 each; Sun Festival shirts are $20.

Similar policies are in place for Saturday’s music series at The Lake Martin Amphitheater on state Route 63, said Russell Lands Director of Marketing Operations Robert Gunn.

Gates open at 5 p.m., and there is no charge for admission or parking. Follow the directions of parking attendants. A trolley should be available to move concertgoers from the parking lot to the amphitheater hillside, but it’s still a good idea to pack light, as all chairs, blankets, coolers and other gear will have to be carried to the amphitheater.

Picnics are allowed but no grilling or cooking. There will be food vendors on site as well, Gunn said. Coolers also are permitted be prepared, if asked, to an ID with proof of age.

Pets are not allowed at The AMP, Gunn said.

“It’s just not a good place for them. There’s so much

going on,” he said. “We just want everyone to come with a good attitude, big smiles, lots of friends and family and have a great time.”

Russell Lands On Lake Martin is the presenting sponsor for this year’s Jazz Fest, as well as the Saturday night stage sponsor at The AMP. Russell Medical will sponsor the stage on Friday night at Strand Park. Additional sponsors include Lee Marketing Group, Lake Martin Dock Company and Tallapoosa County Commissioner Steve Robinson.

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

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LAKE 27

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LAKE 29

TowBoatUS used inflatables to help float and tow the languishing sailboat

For Sail

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STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & COURTESY OF DIXIE SAILING CLUB

If boats have souls, as sailors purport, there’s a Coronado 27 in the yard at Dixie Sailing Club that’s held remarkably fast to hers. Rescued in April at the hands of DSC, TowBoatUS, Lake Martin Resource Association and Alabama Power Company, she bears the scars of a lengthy and unhappy abandonment. Her rudder shifted out of position when she languished, untended and grounded on the shore near Peanut Point listing to port. Her hull has not sustained structural damage, but the gelcoat is scrubbed off in one area and stained brown from algae, as her cockpit and cabin retained varying levels of water over perhaps three years of Lake Martin’s summer and winter pools. But she’s in good spirits and proudly waits for the next good wind.

It will take some work to make her ready, said DSC Youth Program President Jim Simons, who spent months coordinating the rescue after the boat’s sad condition was discovered during the Alabama Power Company Renew Our Rivers cleanup in November, which was coordinated by LMRA. LMRA’s John Thompson contacted Simons when his own efforts to find the boat’s owner came to

30 LAKE

a dead end. It seems the boat was donated to the Children’s Harbor Treasures and Thrift Store several years ago. When it was purchased, the new owner never changed the registration or sailed on the 1971 vessel. He towed it to a friend’s cabin and sold it on a handshake – again, no paperwork or registration was filed.

Through combined efforts, the boat’s owner was found and signed over the registration to the DSC Youth Program. Last month, she was floated and towed to the sailing club’s yard on New Hope Church Road, where she rests comfortably on her trailer. The original triple-axle trailer that was custom-built for the 3-ton Coronado was found in a pasture, where it had rested for 10 years.

There in the DSC boatyard, amid her more seaworthy kin, she awaits purchase and rejuvenation by a sailor, or prospective sailor, who might be looking for a project boat.

The Coronado 27 has a robust design, as it was built in California for coastal sailing, said Simons.

This boat has trailered to Fort Myers a few times and sailed many years from Willow Point. She is well suited for year-round sailing on Lake Martin,

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especially when the wind kicks up to move her among the white caps. She is configured to sleep up to five, allowing a family to anchor back in one of the lake’s many beautiful coves or in the back of an isolated slough for a quiet overnight or weekend escape.

The proceeds from her sale will benefit the DSC Youth Program, a 501(c)3 organization that introduces youth to the lifelong benefits of sailing.

“Her bones are still good, so she could be returned to seaworthy condition by someone who is not afraid of work and enjoys messing with boats,” Simons said.

Having invested many hours of watchful care and tender handling in her deliverance from obscurity, Thompson said he would love to see something that was a potential blight on this Treasured Lake come to great good for the DSC youth, as well as for the boat’s new owner.

“I would enjoy seeing the boat sailing across Lake Martin again,” Thompson said.

The boat can be viewed and assessed at the DSC grounds at 767 New Hope Church Rd., Alexander City. Along with her main, jib and storm sails and all fixed rigging, she can be purchased for a $500 donation to DSCYP. The boat and trailer package can be purchased for a $1,200 donation.

“If the buyer decides to join Dixie Sailing Club, we will throw in the initial DSC membership fee – a $250 value,” Simons added.

To arrange a visit or for more information, email Simons at jsimons944@aol.com.

Interior damage is extensive but not structural, Simons said

Listing port, the boat was abandoned on a shoreline near Peanut Point

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Register now for Art Colony

R

Sarah Carlisle Towery's legacy continues with expanded events at the lake STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

Registration for the 2019 Sarah Carlisle Towery Alabama ed the piece, along with some of Toni’s tools, to raise funds Art Colony is now open, and this year’s event includes for an art colony scholarship. Adams also established an expanded opportunities for art lovers and artists alike.

Alabama Art Colony scholarship that, for the next 10 years, This year’s colony will open on Friday evening, Oct. 11, will help other artists attend the retreat in Toni’s memory. and will feature an art walk on Monday, Oct. 14, to which Lunch on Tuesday will be followed by the traditional the public is invited. There trading card exchange. will be an awards ceremony Participating artists will trade Art Colony patrons will be at dinner on Tuesday, and on card-sized miniature works of eligible for the raffle Wednesday artists will finish art from their own collections. of Towery's unsigned portrait works and bid their farewells The SCT Alabama Art until the 2020 colony event.

Colony was founded in 1992 Throughout the five-day when Towery’s children invitretreat, artists will receive ed a few of her artist friends to instruction from three profesjoin her for a painting retreat sionals who are renowned in at Lake Martin as Towery’s their fields. They will dine birthday gift. What began as a and lodge on the campus of birthday celebration grew into Lake Martin’s picturesque and an annual organized arts event peaceful Children’s Harbor. that attracts artists from across Following Sunday evening’s the country every year. dinner, participating artists will All instruction, special display their work for sale on activities, lodging, meals and the deck at Children’s Harbor’s snacks are provided for regisCabin 10. The public is invited tered artists. to this event.

This year’s instructors “This is one of their most include Elizabeth Robbins, fun and favorite evening Nan Cunningham and Pam activities during the colony,” Garrison. Robbins, who is explained SCT Alabama best known for her classic Art Colony President Karen floral still-life works, will Jennings. teach a traditional oils class.

On Monday evening, artists Cunningham will help indiwill display their works at the vidual artists develop techart walk event, which will be niques and expertise through held at The Ridge Clubhouse. independent study, and The public is invited to mingle with the artists and instrucGarrison will apply her passion for creative inspiration to art tors, ask questions, admire and purchase some of the exhibjournaling and mixed media play. ited works at this reception event. There is no admission Sharon Maddox was named executive director of the SCT charge; wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be available, and Alabama Art Colony in April and will be happy to answer The Bank Walkers will provide entertainment. any questions from artists, as well as art admirers.

This year’s art walk also will include two exemplary Artists who sign up for this year’s colony event should raffle opportunities for Alabama Art Colony patrons: a Sarah bring their own supplies, as there is no access to an art supCarlisle Towery oil-on-canvas and an autographed copy of ply store at the lake venue.

Dan McCaw’s A Proven Strategy for Creating Great Art. The fee for the workshop is $700 ($800 for a private Though untitled and unsigned, Towery’s portrait of a room), which includes a non-refundable deposit of $100. woman in colorful headdress is well known among her Registration closes on Aug. 14. Some scholarship funds may admirers. Beloved longtime colony artist Antonia Adams, be available. Visit www.alabamaartcolony.org for registration who passed away unexpectedly last year, had purchased the and more information. Email alabamaartcolony@gmail.com work several years ago; Adams’ husband, James, has donatfor patron information.

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LAKE 33

Attendance at this year's Russell Marine In-water Boat Show broke records

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Russell Marine celebrated 60 years of business with its 18th annual In-Water Boat Show the last weekend of April at The Ridge Marina on Lake Martin, and turnout was the best it’s ever been, according to Russell Marine President Dave Commander.

Since 2001, Russell Marine has hosted this event, which has undoubtedly become the largest inland inwater boat show in the Southeast. Over the course of three days, record crowds of more than 1,000 people shopped, explored and demoed new boats and Sea-Doos from premiere manufacturers.

“It helped that we had awesome weather, and the economy is doing well. Those two things were a good combination, resulting in a great boat show,” said Commander.

With more boats on display than ever before, there were

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about 80 boats in the water, and another 80 were parked on land. The selection was vast and ranged in color, size, price range, layouts and amenities. From pontoon boats and jet boats to new models of wakesurf and wakeboard boats, the display of water vessels did not disappoint. This led to the most boats sold compared to past years, Commander said.

“I talked to a lot of attendees, and many were from out of town and even out of state,” he added.

An interactive team of employees from Sea-Doo offered complimentary rides on the new three-seated watercraft and also unveiled the first PWC built for fishing. With an extended rear platform, GPS navigation, accessible front storage, rod holders, a cooler and more, this watercraft creates an alternative approach to fishing on Lake Martin.

“This model was well-received,” said Commander. “The

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Russell Marine In-Water Boat Show STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI PHOTOS BY JUSTIN CLAYTON AND JEFF LAMONICA

The show featured some 80 boats on the water and 80 more on land

Sea-Doo team was able to help out a lot, and more than 100 riders demoed on the course we had set up.”

Attendees could take a short trip around the lake in any number of boats on display, as well.

“Representatives from every manufacturing company we carry were here helping out,” said Commander. “People were demoing boats all day.”

Organizations that support Lake Martin and keep lake-goers safe, including TowBoatUS and Lake Martin Resource Association, were available to provide additional information about their resources.

The Ridge Marina Pro Shop was loaded with on-sale clothing, gear and accessories to elevate a day on Lake Martin.

Staff from 105.1 The Lake radio station broadcasted live

from the event and kept customers entertained with interviews, music, prize announcements and more. Hundreds of rubber ducks were hidden on site, and prizes were given to anyone who found one – some extra special ducks led to extra special prizes.

“We had the Atlanta Steel Pan Band out on Saturday and Sunday, which really gave us a good lake feeling,” said Commander.

Catherine’s Market served up barbecue and hand-dipped ice cream and sold out all their food due to the record attendance.

“The boat show seems to get better and better every year with more and more people coming to the lake,” said Commander.

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LAKE 35

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JUNE 2019

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LAKE 37

NATURE OF THE LAKE

BY KENNETH BOONE

Gnatcatchers don't really catch a lot of gnats

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O

Blue-gray

Gnatcatcher

Often known as the “little mockingbird,” the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher is a bird that does look like a tiny version of a mockingbird, but it moves much faster.

This gnatcatcher is very small, roughly 4 inches long, with a 6-inch wingspan, weighing about a quarter of an ounce. It’s so small and so quick that, in flight, it’s not unusual to think you’re seeing a hummingbird.

But if you can catch one holding still for a few seconds, it’s quite obvious that this is no hummer. Blue-gray Gnatcatchers have a mockingbird-like silhouette and a long, black tail with white edges that they often flick to scare up insects for dinner. They sometimes hold their tails very high in the air in a very un-mockingbird-like position.

But in many ways, they do deserve their “little mockingbird” nickname. They sometimes mimic other birds’ calls.

And they are colored and shaped (but not sized) much like a mockingbird.

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are – aptly so – blue-gray in color with lighter grayish-white bellies. Males tend to be more bluish than their grayer partners. These tiny songbirds have white rings around their eyes – the males’ eye rings are more obvious – long gray legs and a short, straight bill.

During the warm months when they are breeding, male Blue-gray Gnatcatchers have a dark, V-shaped “eyebrow” marking that makes them look like an Angry Birds cartoon

character.

Ornithologists call this bird Polioptila caerulea; its genus name means gray feathers in ancient Greek.

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers live all across the U.S., from the East Coast to the West and south to Central and South America. They do not live in the Upper Midwest or the northwest corner of the U.S. You’re likely to see Blue-gray Gnatcatchers around the edge of Lake Martin and other bodies of water, as they usually build their nests in moist areas around gaps and along edges of hardwood forests. They seem especially fond of oak, ash and maple forests across their range, and here in the South, they tend to like pine forests with oak understories.

The Blue-gray Gnatcatcher pictured here raised its family in alder bush right on the shoreline.

Both male and female work to creThe male gnatcatcher's ate a small, eyebrow is more pronounced than the female's flexible, highwalled nest, which is made of bits of lichen and spider silk, as well as strips of bark and grass. The inside of the nest is roughly 1-1/2 inches in diameter and is lined with soft material, such as feathers, paper and hair. A breeding pair can be very prolific, building multiple nests in one season to thwart mites and parasites. They can also be quite practical, pirating parts of old nests to build new ones in order to save time and labor.

Nests are usually built in the upper branches of a tree, mostly away from the main trunk. Nest sites are often on

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top of a horizontal branch, or sometimes in the crotch of a branch for support.

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are extremely energetic and busy. After the first nest is complete, the male will often start work on the second while his partner is sitting on eggs; however, the male also hunts bugs to feed the family and will sit on eggs to give his partner a break.

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher gals lay three to five 1/2-inchlong pale blue eggs with brown spots and incubate them for about two weeks. Once the nestlings hatch, they will be ready to leave the nest in another two weeks. Juveniles’ feathers come in more gray-green colored than their parents.

These birds are always in motion. When scavenging for food, they dart and flit from tree to tree, cocking their heads and twitching their tails to startle insects into moving. Interestingly, they don’t eat a lot of gnats, but they do eat plenty of other insects – like spiders, beetles, cicadas, moths, butterflies, flies and ants – that they pluck from a branch or leaf or from mid-air. A large captured insect may be beaten into submission on a branch before it is eaten.

Gnatcatchers are as feisty as they are quick, vigorously defending their nests and territories. They are known to attack much larger birds that come too close, sometimes with both male and female working together to chase off

an invader. They have been known to stage aerial face-offs with interlopers, flying up into the sky breast-to-breast while trying to peck each other like two angry baseball players arguing at home plate.

These birds are not long-lived. The oldest Blue-gray Gnatcatcher known to science is 4 years and 2 months old.

Most adults are hard for predators to catch; however, young gnatcatchers are preyed upon by a number of birds, including bluejays, crows and woodpeckers, as well as squirrels, raccoons and snakes.

Here in the Lake Martin area, Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are summer residents, even though they live full time in south Alabama; however, as the climate has warmed over the past century, these birds have expanded and moved their range north about 200 miles, so it wouldn’t be super unusual to see one here now during the winter months.

Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are hard to see, but their nasal, high-pitched peeps and squeaky-toy-like calls – and bill snapping – are good auditory clues to start scanning the trees with binoculars.

Information for this article came from allaboutbirds.org, audubon.org and animaldiversity.org.

The female Blue-gray Gnatcatcher lays three to five 1/2-inch long eggs

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Grill like a winner 42 LAKE

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Zach, Shanna, Daniel and Owen Thompson

D Put ribs, collard greens, Mexican cornbread and sliced tomatoes on the menu for your next summer cook-out

Family brings home four awards for first-time entry STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

JUNE 2019

Daniel Thompson loves to grill meat, and he enjoyed being on cook teams that entered regional competitions. But when the thought struck him that he might could conjure up a dish that was better than most of what he was tasting at the local cook-offs, he decided to enter his own team for the 2019 Alabama Wildlife Federation Lake Martin Wild Game Cook-off. And he was right.

In their first Lake Martin entry last month, the Thompson family’s Biscuits and Gravy Chillin’ and Grillin’ cook team brought home four awards, including Best Overall for a dish titled Hog Wild. Owen Thompson, the 5-yearold son of Daniel and wife, Shanna, brought home the first place award in the youth division for venison chili titled Deer Just Chillin.’

The Thompsons have attended cook-offs in the area since 2005, and Shanna has volunteered on the AWF Lake Martin Wild Game Cook-off committee for the past six years.

Thompson, who grills on a Big Green Egg in his backyard, would come home from cook-off events and try to recreate dishes he and his wife Shanna had sampled. Before long, he began working with friends on their cook teams.

“We like the camaraderie,” Shanna said.

“The same teams come back every year, and you get to know them. It’s a fun atmosphere, and we like the fellowship.”

“Somebody always has to borrow something from somebody,” Thompson said. “Charcoal or a spatula. We enjoy it, and that’s good because

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"Don't try to go over the top or spend hours making a sauce. Just keep it simple and don't overdo it."

Owen's Deer Just Chillin' won first place in the youth division

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~ Daniel Thompson JUNE 2019

it’s expensive to enter these things. But we do it because we enjoy it.”

It’s also hard work, Thompson said. He spent two years developing the winning rib recipe before he got it to where he was satisfied with it.

“I’ve had a lot of practice, mostly with ribs and butts,” he explained. “We usually cook out every weekend. We live close to family, and I use them as my tasters.”

In addition to their Best Overall ribs, the team took third place in the fish division for a dish that they developed by pure accident, Thompson said.

“That Bubba Gump entry was just an accident. We made the shrimp one night and had leftovers, and on another night, we made the collard greens and had leftovers. So we were just using leftovers when we put those two together, and we thought, ‘That’s pretty good!” he said.

In fact, one of Thompson's ribs won Best the judges at the Overall in the AWF Lake cook-off, which Martin Wild Game Cook-off was held at The Lake Martin Amphitheater, commented that Shanna Thompson’s collard greens were the best he’d ever tasted.

“I cook them under pressure,” she said.

For son Owen’s chili entry, Thompson said, the work is in the preparation.

“At these events, we have to serve about 200 people, so we make a 5-gallon bucket of the chili. That’s a lot of chopping ingredients and browning meat,” he said. “The key to the chili is to keep tasting it. When you add something to it, you have to taste it; add some more; stir; and taste it again until you get it right.”

And the key to his award-winning ribs? As Thompson will take this entry to the state competition in Millbrook in August, he wasn’t about to give up the recipe for his succulent, fall-off-the-bones winner, but he did offer up some tips and techniques to help Lake readers grill like winners this summer.

Use fresh, good quality ingredients. “Get meat from a good butcher,” Thompson advised. “If I’m buying from a store, I always go to the Piggly Wiggly in Alexander City for my meat and my collard greens. The quality of the meat there is better than any I’ve found anywhere else, and their collard greens are always pretty. If you don’t start with good ingredients, you can’t expect good results.”

Low and slow. That’s where the tenderness comes

from, Thompson said. He starts the ribs early in the morning – 8 a.m. to serve them at 5 p.m. Get the Big Green Egg up to 225 degrees and hold that temperature for the duration, he said.

“I take them out of the refrigerator about an hour before they go on the grill, so they can come up to room temperature,” he explained. “If you put cold meat on the grill, it will just cook the outside too fast.”

Use only kosher salt. “Definitely kosher salt,” he said.

“It’s the best there is.”

Don’t try too hard. “The biggest thing that people do wrong is that they do too much,” Thompson explained.

“Don’t try to go over the top or spend hours making a sauce. Just keep it simple and don’t overdo it.”

Remember that not everyone at the dinner table has the same likes in spices and intense flavors. Let diners customize their servings with more sauce and additional seasonings if they choose, he suggested.

“They can make it hotter if they want to,” Thompson added.

Use bone-in meat. “I always use meat with the bone in. It’s just better,” he said, adding, “And always use meat with fat in it. That’s where the flavor comes from.”

Remove any membrane from the ribs and coat them heavily with your favorite blend of herbs and spices.

Then, put the ribs directly on the grill, close the lid and leave them alone for five hours.

Wrap the ribs. About three hours before serving time, Thompson bathes his ribs in a barbecue sauce of his own concoction and wraps them in aluminum foil. He places the wrapped ribs back on the grill, closes the lid and leaves them alone until it’s time to plate them, he said.

“They should want to just fall apart when you try to take them out of the foil.”

Don’t wait to clean up. Rinse pans and cooking utensils as quickly as possible, Thompson suggested. If they are left to sit, especially if you’ve packed them up to travel, the caked on seasonings, dried juices and sauce could be much more difficult to remove and might even ruin your best pan.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try something new or different, Thompson concluded. You just might create a winning recipe – or at least grill like a winner.

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A Haven at the Lake STORY BY LONNA UPTON & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

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The stained island adds a dramatic centerpiece to the kitchen

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I

The Funderburks enjoy morning It’s clear Ken and Annette Funderburk love Lake Martin, coffee and evening cocktails and their new home in the The Ridge helps them share it with in their favorite spot friends and family. They are, just now, settling into their second home in the South Ridge Harbor at this popular Russell Lands neighborhood. The Funderburks worked with Classic Homes and a house plan by architect Larry Furlong to help them plan the space.

“The Russell folks helped us pick cabinets, floors, paint, rock and tile. They are really good at what they do, and we liked working with Nan Jackson and her team,” Ken Funderburk said.

The 4,000-square foot home offers a spacious living area and kitchen, two masters on the main level, plus an additional living room, bunkroom and two bedrooms with baths on the lakeside terrace level. A space above the garage and another room downstairs are ready for later expansion into office space or guest suites. The main level nickel-gap paneled walls are painted in Natural Linen by Benjamin Moore; the interior doors are Adoptive Shade by Sherwin Williams.

Stone and cedar, including massive columns and architectural elements, define the exterior. The garage is separated from the home with a covered walkway that leads to an entrance with a mudroom.

The Funderburks credit Phil Spraggins, Phil Interior Design in Alexander City, for the final details that have made their house a comfortable home filled with both lakeside treasures and family memories.

“We sold our other home furnished, and so we were starting over completely and needed help. Interior designers really need to understand you when they are selecting everything from linens to outdoor furniture. Phil did a great job with it all,” Funderburk said.

Spraggins, who selected dozens of natural elements to bring the outside in, said his goal was to synchronize the owners’ tastes with the lake and its beauty. To that end, the home is filled with feathers, driftwood and natural stone, along with paintings, photos and prints of nature, the lake and the Lake Martin community.

A shaded front entryway into the foyer leads guests to a living area that seems to expand out to the lake. On the left, a table with two light fixtures suspended by and wrapped in rope greet visitors with a nod to nautical lake life.

A wall to the right features three tremendous black and white photographs of Lake Martin landmarks. The photos

by Kenneth Boone and Jim Denney were blown up to 7 feet by 40 inches; and then, were mounted on boards to cover the immense wall and set the tone for the home.

To protect the heart pine floors in high-traffic areas and to soften the rooms, Spraggins used a Moroccan rug as the center piece of the living area and added complementary rugs, some of which are oushak, throughout the Bathroom details include home for continuity of color and tone Shaker cabinetry and doors from room to room. and decorative tile

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The 250-pound bluestone and iron sofa table defines the living spaces

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Four club chairs, a tufted leather sofa and a rustic wood and iron round coffee table complete an intimate space in front of the stone fireplace. Above the fireplace, two large Indonesian vine wreaths hang. A bluestone and iron sofa table, weighing in at 250 pounds, provides a perfect divider between living room and kitchen but allows the space to be adjusted for either larger or more intimate gatherings.

A massive chandelier, consisting of two tiers of iron rings with Edison bulbs, is suspended above the room, creating a focal point and ambience.

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Driftwood pieces decorate the walls in the kitchen, and large basket-styled chandeliers and iron spires pull the eyes upward to the tops of the cabinets. The vent hood and cabinets are painted a neutral, creamy color, while the island is stained, adding a dramatic centerpiece to the room. Tin and copper chandeliers from Shades of Light hang from a cedar beam suspended above the island. The backsplash of brickshaped, hand-glazed tiles in a creamy beige blend with the quartz countertops.

A live edge walnut dining table from Holley’s Home

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The great room bar is fashioned from pecky cypress

Spraggins brought natural outside elements into the interior décor

The porch features an outdoor dining table made from old barn wood

Furnishings in Alexander City, along with six upholstered, nail-head-trimmed chairs purchased separately from the table, provide a mealtime location that invites diners to linger. Framed prints of ferns native to the area hang in the nook. A pantry with the coffee bar stands in close proximity for easy access.

“I use local stores as much as possible – King’s, Holley’s and McGhee’s in Alexander City, Johnson’s in Eclectic. I look at Longleaf Antiques locally and Scott’s Antiques in Atlanta to find just the right piecJUNE 2019

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Decorative tiles, a beaded chandelier and a soaking tub add style and comfort to the master bath

The stone and cedar exterior blends beautifully with the forested setting

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Floor-to-ceiling lake landscapes greet guests in the foyer

es for my clients,” Spraggins said.

The great room also includes a wet bar built from stained peckycypress cabinets with rustic iron drawer pulls and custom slide-out drawers for storage. Three glass pendant lights hang above. Large windows above the bar open to the front of the home, offering natural light from the side of the room opposite the large windows overlooking the lake.

A covered porch extends across the back of the house. A section on one end, outside the master bedroom, is ready for relaxation in comfortable seating. A section on the other end of the porch, outside the kitchen, is screened and offers dining on a table made from old barn wood, purchased in Brundidge, Alabama, at City Antiques. Ken and Annette’s favorite place resides between the two areas with tete-a-tete custom seating, made with double balcony chairs connected by a table – perfect for morning coffee and evening cocktails while taking in the magnificent view of Lake Martin.

Restoration Hardware furniture, plus soft drapes, custom made from lined painters’ cloths, create a perfect master bedroom retreat.

Rugs and linens are neutral. Again, natural elements and antique tiles decorate the space. The master bath is separated from the room with a barn door built by students at Ingram State Technical College (ISTC).

Annette is the president of ISTC, an Alabama community college that provides job training to incarcerated students. Through what is known as a “live work” policy, the Funderburks purchased their own materials and supplies and paid an additional surcharge; then, they added their projects to the waitlist for ISTC carpentry and cabinet students to build.

“We definitely wanted their work to be a part of our home. This opportunity gives our students on-the-job training. We have two barn doors, a queen bed swing and the cabinets in our half-baths that were built by Ingram students. They did a really great job, and it makes the home even more special to us,” Funderburk said.

The master bath is tiled in porcelain with a mosaic border inset on the floor and carried onto the shower’s floor and wall. Quartz countertops, a soaker tub and a beaded chandelier add to the luxurious space.

The main floor guest room can be used as a second master – beautifully Lake views add a sense attired with gray linens, furniture and a of serenity to bedrooms bath with large shower.

Downstairs, the Funderburks created a relaxed game and television room with a wet bar and cooler. Arrowheads found by Annette’s father are framed and hang on the wall. Other décor includes lake scenes painted by friends and family, as well as an American flag.

Two sets of bunk beds, painted gray to match the doors, line one side of the hallway that leads to two additional bedrooms and baths. Both bedrooms have views of the lake. A flagstone patio with seating and a queen-sized bed swing is just outside the living room doors.

“Our goal was to have a place our three boys could bring their families to enjoy. And, hopefully retire on this beautiful lake,” Funderburk said.

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Find yourself on a CRATA trail

STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

GPS location maps on the new CRATA website will help hikers know where they are on the trails

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C

Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association last month launched a new website that could help to prevent hikers from getting lost on the 27 miles of CRATA trails around Lake Martin. The site at crata. org includes trail maps that will show a hiker’s location when GPS is enabled and the mobile device has a signal, said CRATA board member Walt Hutcheson, who developed the application.

“If you go to the new website, scroll down and click on ‘Maps and Directions,’ select the trail you want to hike. It will show you directions to get to the trailhead; and then, it will show your location on the trail map and give you turn-by-turn directions and distances while you are on the trail,” Hutcheson explained.

The site is designed to help hikers find their way along the trails and back to the parking lots, as some of the CRATA trails are remote, and a few hikers have even gotten lost.

“Especially in the Yates Lake area trails south of Martin Dam, we’ve had to go in and look for hikers,” Hutcheson said. “We’ve even gone in with volunteers from the Red Hill Fire Department to find folks.

“We interfaced with the Google maps and wrote some code for our maps. We have it set for the highest level, so if you are on a smartphone, have a signal and have GPS turned on, it will find you.

When it asks you to allow crata.org to use your device’s location, you have to click on ‘Allow’ to turn the GPS on,” he said.

To make the program easy to find and use on the trail, mobile bookmark it on the smartphone, Hutcheson suggested.

“The idea was to help people find our trails from wherever they were but also to allow them to locate themselves on the map while hiking the trails, so they could find their way on the trails and how to get back out,” he added.

CRATA is a 501c3 organization of volunteers who design, build and maintain quality, wellmarked footpath-only trails in the Lake Martin area.

The CRATA system includes a historic fire tower and outdoor education center, along with more than 6 miles of trails at Smith Mountain; 7 miles of trails originating at Overlook Park above Martin Dam; a 4-mile challenging hike along the rocky bluffs opposite Lake Martin’s Chimney Rock; and some 10 miles of hiking trails on Forever Wild property at Yates Lake just south of Martin Dam on state Route 50.

The new site also allows viewers to volunteer or make donations online. Click on the ‘Help Us’ tab on the site’s home page to learn more about these opportunities.

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Island Life

I

It’s not often that a private island comes up for sale on Lake Martin, especially one in the middle of Blue Creek, but Tims Island just west of Curry Point went on the market last month.

The third and outermost island in a string south of Murray Road to its north, the 1-acre forested isle already has preliminary clearance for utilities, including underwater power supply, septic, water filtration and geothermal HVAC. It has been approved for up to 10 boat slips, said listing agent Richard Buchholtz with Securance Realty.

“It’s already been verbally approved for seawall all the way around,” Buchholtz said. “It’s a stone’s throw from The Ridge. One side faces the condos at Crown Point, and it’s right around the corner from Chuck’s.”

In fact, the island once was owned by Chuck Williams, who built the popular Lake Martin marina south of Curry’s Point in the late 1960s, said the

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island’s owner, Tim Williams.

“My dad was Chuck, and I was about 10 years old when he built Chuck’s Marina,” Williams said. “The Curry family owned quite a bit of property in that area back in the ’20s before the dam was built. They had an old homeplace near the island, and when the lake came in, they didn’t sell to the power company.”

The land, including the island, eventually came to be owned by Dewey Curry, a friend of Chuck’s.

“I remember as a kid going out to that island and dreaming of having a house out there one day,” Williams said. “There’s some real nice rocks on the west side, and I would sit there and look out at the lake in the afternoon. It’s just mesmerizing.

“My dad got into the real estate business in the ’70s and started Lake Martin Realty. Mr. Curry wanted to develop and sell some of his property, so my dad helped him develop Curry’s Point and sell the

JUNE 2019

Historic Blue Creek island on the market STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE

lots.”

In 1997, when Curry had sold off most of his property, Chuck bought the island from him.

Chuck eventually sold the marina and the real estate company to Russell Lands, who in turn, sold Chuck’s Marina to its current owners. He continued to run the real estate company for two more years after Russell Lands bought it, Williams said.

In 1999, Williams purchased the island.

“It was my intention in the early 2000s to build and live on it. I took an architect out there and did some surveying on it. I was a contractor on the lake, and I planned to build an all-glass house on the west side, so I would have a 360-degree view. I also was going to build a one-bedroom guesthouse on the east side for a caretaker who would maintain the property when I was gone,” he explained.

Alabama Power Company devised an initial con-

cept for running cables underwater from a metered box on the mainland, so as not to affect the view or hinder boat traffic, Williams said. County engineers approved the island for a septic system, and Williams – a pilot who owns antique aircraft – planned to design a floatplane area.

“On the north side, there’s a basin that’s perfect for putting in the dock. It’s got good swimming areas on the east side, and the water drops off very deep on the west side,” he added.

In recent years, Williams has enjoyed the island with his friends, who unofficially christened it Tims Island. He retired early and shelved plans to build on the island, and now, he said, it’s time to pass the dream on to someone who might just really make it happen.

For more information about Tims Island, contact Richard Buchholtz at 205-233-0000.

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Wind Creek Putt Putt

Lake Martin’s only miniature golf course opened at Wind Creek State Park last month. Eeach of the 18 holes is named for a Lake Martin landmark or a feature at the park, said WCSP Superintendent Bruce Adams.

“There’s a hole for Chimney Rock, Creem at the Creek, the Silo, Snake Island; a zip line hole and one for the Horseshoe Bend fort.

We named one after the fishing pier and one for the beach at the park,” Adams said. “Each hole is sponsored by a local business or group of people who helped to fund it or had a hand in it.”

STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE The only active miniature golf course in the state’s park system, Wind Creek Putt Putt Golf is the brainchild of park volunteer Mike Andrews of Alexander City.

At each of the 18 25-foot to 30-foot holes, players “I just wanted the kids to have something fun to do,” must negotiate bumps, ramps, curves, hills, turns and Andrews said. “I gave Bruce a concept plan about a other obstacles to sink their putts. Though a few holes year ago; and then, we started collecting money for it. will be marked for par at two shots, others will be After that, the dream became reality.” marked as high as six. Most will fall into par at three or Construction started on the project in January but four shots, Adams said. was delayed by spring rains.

Nine of the holes are handicap accessible, and these “It was kind of stop and start dodging raindrops, but are marked with blue on the hole signposts, he added. our goal was to open by Memorial Day, and we made Along the path that leads from hole to hole, volunit,” Adams said. “We tested it out one day, and it’s a bit teers have built benches and put up umbrellas to shade of a challenge. None of the holes is easy.”

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WCSP's new putt-putt course features 18 holes of lake-themed play

players who may have to occasionally wait for their turns at the next tee box.

“The benches will be good shady places for parents or grandparents who just come to watch,” Adams added.

The course also includes a Memorial Bridge feature, named in honor of veterans, as well as a landscaped flagpole.

Volunteers collected $7,100 toward the project, and the park added about $3,700 from its operating fund, Adams said. Some of the materials were donated or

substantially discounted by local businesses that are acknowledged at each hole. Some 15 volunteers put in countless hours to complete the project, Adams said.

“It took all of us to get it done,” he said. “Not just the volunteers who worked on the course, but also volunteers and staff who picked up jobs around here that they don’t normally do because the person who does it was working on the golf course.”

The builders were creative in their execution of Andrews’ plan: for example, the Chimney Rock hole

JUNE 2019

LAKE 67

features a large, graffiti-covered stone in the middle of the fairway; the Creem at the Creek hole is laid out and painted like an ice cream cone; and the Talladega 500 hole is a curved track lined with rubber tires. The last hole is named for the campground’s dump station, and balls disappear down a sewer pipe.

The course will be manned by volunteers and will be open from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on weekends.

On weekdays, it will open later in the morning but will be open until 8:30 p.m.

“That means the last group will go out at 8:30 p.m.,” Adams clarified.

A round of putt-putt golf at Wind Creek will cost $5 for a person aged 14 and over; $3 for ages 6 to 13; and children 5 and under will play for free. Non-campers also will pay a day-use fee to enter the park: $2 for ages 4 to 11; $5 for ages 12 to 61; and $2 for 62 and older.

The course is lighted for play after dark.

No food or drinks will be

allowed on the course, but refreshments are available in the park at the marina, the Creem at the Creek snack bar and the Kona Ice truck.

The course is located on the park’s main road at the campground exit. Parking is available in the picnic and beach area parking lots and on the side of the road at the course. Boats can be pulled up and tied off just past the beach area, and boaters would walk about 200 yards up the road from the beach to the putt-putt course. Noncamping boaters also would pay the day-use fees.

Sponsors on the project include B&W Enterprises, Premier RV, Howard Williams, James Culligan, Bice Motors, Southern Pipe, Mortgage Pro, Re/Max Around the Lake, Foshee’s/What’s LLC, Downtown Body Shop, AA Long & Company, Loader Services and Equipment, Jay’s Sports Grill and City Accounting.

For more information about the putt-putt course, call the park office at 256-329-0845.

RHODES BROTHERS/KEY BUILDERS

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Builder John Rhodes - 256-675-0217 Custom Home Chris Key- 256-749-0179  rhodesbrothersinc.net chriskeybuilding@yahoo.com General Contractor johnrhodes1@charter.net 68 LAKE

JUNE 2019

D I S C OV E R

I T TA K E S A V I L L AG E T O M A K E A H O M E

What makes a home in National Village so special is the sum of the parts of National Village. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Grand National, the pool, the lake, the hiking trails, the dining, the friendship, and of course Auburn Football. Perhaps the saying is true, the whole is equal to the sum of its parts.

T O L E A R N M O R E V I S I T N A T I OJUNE N A L V2019 ILLAGE.COM OR CALL 334 749 8165

LAKE 69

FABULOUS FINDS

FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS

809 Raintree Drive, Alexander City • $647,500 3 BR; Remodeled kitchen, breakfast and family room/music room. Large pantry, powder room, sunroom, covered porch, laundry room, plantation shutters, open balcony, hall bath, Pella windows and doors, Master w/ walk-in closet.

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

464 Ridgeview Point, Alexander City • $1,395,000 5 BR/ 4.75 BA lake home,. Gourmet kitchen w/SS appliances. Master suite on main has lake view w/porch area. Walk-in laundry. Downstairs has 12 ft ceilings w/ full kitchen. +/- 186 ft of shoreline and seawall.

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

150 Liberty Lane, Jackson's Gap • $698,000 2010 construction on 195.64 ft of waterfront. 3 BR, 3 BA. MASTER on MAIN. Separate Dining Room, kitchen with granite countertops. Terrace level has a large open living room + kitchenette (2 BR). Safe Room + tons of storage. 2 car enclosed garage RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Lacey Howell 256-307-2443 www.laceyhowell.com

78 Hill Road, Eclectic • $259,000 New Constuction w/ water view & access in Castaway! 2 BR, + 1 bonus/bunk room and 2.5 BA. High ceilings! Community docks and ramp. Almost move in ready!

RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Lacey Howell 256-307-2443 www.laceyhowell.com

173 Sunrise Lane, Jackson's Gap • $550,000 251.34 ft of FLAT waterfront! In Madwind Creek. 4BD/4BA + 2 half BA! Enclosed 2 car garage.

Master on main. Covered boat lift. Wood burning rock fireplace. Big closets, ton of storage.

RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Lacey Howell 256-307-2443 www.laceyhowell.com

3041 Crosswinds Road, Alexander City • $1,499,999 Villa in Old Windermere. 2 acres w/landscaping and 284 ft of waterfront. 6 BD, 8BA, Hardwoods and Mexican tile. Terrace level w/ second living area, screen porch, full kitchen and wet bar. Pool and cabana.

RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Lacey Howell 256-307-2443 www.laceyhowell.com

70 Lee Road 2147, Valley • $987,777 8764 Tara Ln, Auburn • $499,000 Designed by coveted architect Mitch Ginn, 4 BR, large bathroom access & Southern plantation home in Auburn City Limits. Home sits on 3.75 acres & provides wonderful intercom systems. Double fireplace, that adjoins the living room & family privacy while being just minutes away from the Publix at Hamilton Place. A private fishing pond room w/ built-ins. Master BR suite connects to the sunroom. Master BA is encompassed by beautiful nature. A short bridge takes you to an island in the pond. When you’re centered around a grand soaking tub, two separate vanities & water closets, not fishing you can enjoy the 3-bay garage with a workshop! Currently, one bay has been converted connecting to the tile walk-in shower. The basement has endless possibilities. into a private pub/man cave. Sit back, relax and welcome to your own private southern paradise!

Ryan Roberts (334) 750-9872 Ryan Roberts (334) 750-9872 RyanRobertsRealtor.com RyanRobertsRealtor.com

Lot 1 at Kennebec - $669,900 3.4 Acres - 1,000 Feet - Waterfront Custom Home Site Lake Martin Voice Realty John Coley (334)221-5862 KennebecAL.com

70 LAKE

Lot 4 at Kennebec - $159,900 1.2 Acres - 167 Feet - Waterfront Custom Home Site Lake Martin Voice Realty John Coley (334)221-5862 KennebecAL.com

257 Bayou Road, Dadeville • $1,590,000 Lake Martin Lodge & Guest House! Stunning 10,000+ sq ft retreat is ideal for large families, events, or a bed & breakfast. 8 BR & BA, large kitchen, dining, great room, private master retreat, game room, movie room, & 2 laundry rooms. Guest house portion of the lodge features 3 BR, 1 BA, large living room & kitchen, access to the third vehicle garage. Property has parking as well as over 2,000 square feet of decks. Sandy beach for swimming & a covered boat house with 2 slips. Fully furnished.

Ryan Roberts (334) 750-9872 RyanRobertsRealtor.com

Whisper Wood • $536,500 WATERFRONT IN STILLWATERS- This updated 3 BR, 2 BA home is nestled amongst the trees on a flat half acre lot in Stillwaters. The outdoor areas include a large deck, gazebo, and covered boat house with a lift. Home improvements include granite in kitchen, bathroom remodels, a roof replacement, and new HVAC. Ryan Roberts (334) 750-9872 RyanRobertsRealtor.com

Lot 24 at Kennebec - $344,900 1.2 Acres - 295 Feet - Waterfront Custom Home Site Lake Martin Voice Realty John Coley (334)221-5862 KennebecAL.com

Lot 34 at Kennebec - $219,900 0.7 Acres - 218 Feet - Waterfront Custom Home Site Lake Martin Voice Realty John Coley (334)221-5862 KennebecAL.com

JUNE 2019

FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS

FABULOUS FINDS

47 Oaks Knoll, Jackson’s Gap • $1,499,000 •Beds: 7 •Baths: 6 •Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Cindy Scroggins (256) 794-3372 LakeMartinRealty.com

82 Shady Wood, Alex City • $1,850,000 •Beds: 5 •Baths: 4 •Waterfront Lake Martin Realty India Davis (256) 749-7592 LakeMartinRealty.com

200 Catesby Drive, Eclectic • $1,250,000 •Beds: 4 •Baths: 4.5 •Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie (334) 312-0928 LakeMartinRealty.com

160 Ridge Crest, Alex City • $2,750,000 •Beds: 5 •Baths: 5.5 •Waterfront Lake Martin Realty David Mitchell (256) 212-3511 LakeMartinRealty.com

49 Bald Cypress East, Eclectic • $2,100,000 •Beds: 4 •Baths: 5 •Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Rhonda Jaye (256) 749-8681 LakeMartinRealty.com

73 South Pin Oak Lane, Jackson’s Gap • $629,000 •Beds: 6 •Baths: 4.5 •Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Michelle Brooks (256) 749-1031 LakeMartinRealty.com

342 Village Loop, Dadeville • $620,000 •Beds: 3 •Baths: 3 •Waterfront Lake Martin Realty Allison Jaye Ladson (256) 750-0711 LakeMartinRealty.com

16 Pine Straw Court, Dadeville • $389,000 •Beds: 3 •Baths: 2.5 •Water Access & Water View Lake Martin Realty Jerry Purcell (205) 382-3417 LakeMartinRealty.com

Under Construction

South Ridge Harbor, Cascadia • $2,300,000 Builder: Legacy New Homes Beds: 5 • Baths: 7 • SQFT: 4,786 Russell Lands On Lake Martin Emily McDaniel, Rhonda Watson 256.215.7011 RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

Willow Point, Parkview Cottage • $795,000 Builder: Derryl Thomas Beds: 4 • Baths: 4.5 • SQFT: 2,580 Russell Lands On Lake Martin Emily McDaniel, Rhonda Watson 256.215.7011 RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

1936 Castaway Island Road, Eclecic • $419,900 4 Pin Oak, Jacksons Gap • $625,000 Cabin with big water view. 2 BR with 1 BA. It has a neatly ''UNDER CONSTRUCTION'' on flat lot with deep water. 4 decorated interior and is only steps away from the water. No BR, 3.5 BA, open kitchen/dining, both covered and open deck seawall, sandy beach. Gazebo. Flat lot on Castaway Island. 40 for lakeside activities, double carport, with approximately 120 Minutes from Montgomery and Auburn. ft of deep water and boat ramp. Completed summer 2019.

Lake Martin Realty Lake Martin Realty Call Damon Story 256-789-9526 Call Damon Story 256-789-9526 www.damonstory.com www.damonstory.com

Under Construction

South Ridge Harbor, Stonehaven • $1,790,000 Builder: Lake Martin Signature Construction Beds: 4 (5th opt.) • Baths: 5.5 • SQFT: 4,072 Russell Lands On Lake Martin Emily McDaniel, Rhonda Watson 256.215.7011 RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

The Willows, Inspiration Home Builder: Classic Homes Beds: 5 • Baths: 5.5 • SQFT: 4,130 Russell Lands On Lake Martin Emily McDaniel, Rhonda Watson 256.215.7011 RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

Lot 6 White Oak Landing, Jackson Gap • $640,000 Pre-construction - The Sunfish. Basement cottage plan offering 3 BR and 3.5 BA. Designed by architect Mitch Ginn of L. Mitchell Ginn and Associates. Master on main. Lake level has 2 BR, 2 full BA, bunk room, Rec room and summer kitchen.

Low maintenance landscape. Seawall, pier and waterfront features included.

Lake Martin Realty Call Damon Story 256-789-9526 www.damonstory.com

248 Ledges Trail, Alexander City • $695,000 Largest plan available in The Ledges with over 4000 sq feet. 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths. Two masters, one on main and the other up with a private deck. Open great room with stone fireplace. Enjoy the lake and let someone else take care of the maintenance.

Lake Martin Realty Call Damon Story 256-789-9526 www.damonstory.com

JUNE 2019

LAKE 71

Safety and Courtesy First

A

fter being on the lake almost every day become congested, which could create a dangerlast month, it’s been awesome to see the ous situation if you have a rider in the water; howgrowth on Lake Martin this year. New ever, if you want to ride on the weekends, you are houses are being built; more boaters are out enjoynot out of luck. ing the beautiful views; and more people are surfOne of the greatest qualities of our lake is the ing and wakeboarding than ever before. But this high number of fingers and sloughs that Lake also means that there will be more traffic on the Martin offers. This allows riders to find smooth lake, and it is essential that drivers and riders take waters with little-to-no traffic, allowing for fun and the necessary precautions, as well as being aware safe environments to ride in and are the best places of boating laws, to ensure safety. to ride on the weekends. Make sure to scout out I highly advise that all boaters and riders be up these places before riding to ensure that the pass BEHIND THE BOAT is to date on the newest boating laws and regulations wide and the water is deep, and make sure that

BY BEN WATTS before going out on the water this summer. These you will not be too close to others’ docks when rules and laws can change frequently, and it is passing by. important to be aware of them.

As a boater who is not pulling a rider, there are several things This will help to not only ensure the safety of you and your to keep in mind when driving around the lake when it comes crew but also to ensure the safety of others. After 15 years of to safety of others who are riding. One of the biggest issues riding on Lake Martin, I’ve seen a lot of scary situations that we run into is when a boater comes up directly behind another could have easily been avoided, and that is what I will focus on boat that is pulling a rider. This happens fairly often because the in this article. water is typically less rough when riding directly behind anothOne of the best ways a rider could help to prevent accidents er, and also, riders on wave runners like to jump the wakes. from taking place is to pick the right place and time to ride.

The boater who is driving behind the rider may sometimes be Riding early in the mornings on weekdays will give you the unaware of situations for the fore-vessel, which could lead to an smoothest water with the least amount of traffic. accident if the rider falls. This can create an extremely dangerThis is the most enjoyable time to ride, in my opinion, ous situation and should be avoided at all costs. A boat pulling because it takes away a lot of the stress of having to worry a skier has the right of way and should be yielded to. about other boats coming and choppy conditions. If you are Another instance to look out for is entering a narrow slough only up on the weekends, riding in the early mornings is still an with a boater pulling a skier. If it is not essential for you to awesome time to get out there and have some fun. enter, I suggest trying to avoid it. Entering could put the other One of the worst times to ride is mid-day to late afternoon driver in a tough situation with few options to maneuver. It is on the weekends. In my opinion, this should be avoided, if pos- also important to remember that skiers are looking to ride in the sible, especially if you are on a main channel. It’s important to smoothest water possible, and entering a narrow slough where remember that even if you are confident in your skills as a rider they are riding could impede that. All of this is to say that Lake or driver, there may be another boater who is unaware of his/ Martin is a public lake, and you can go where you please, but her surroundings that is coming toward you or your rider. This these are just common etiquette rules to go by. is why I say avoid this time of the day because it is more likely As the driver of a boat, it is your duty and responsibility to that you will encounter this type of situation. keep you and your crew safe, as well as others around you or in Also, where you are at on the lake is important to safety. the water.

Locations where a main channel narrows – or even main chanBeing aware of the wake your boat puts out is another major nels in general – should be avoided on weekends when pulling aspect to practicing good boating etiquette. As wakeboarders a skier because traffic is at a high. Narrow passes can easily and wakesurfers, we often like to get the wake as big as possible, which is awesome! But keep in mind that your wake is your responsibility and going too close to a dock or another boat could result in damages or injuries.

I am all about having fun on this beautiful lake that we all call home, but in order to do that to the fullest extent, we must put safety first. It is our duty as boaters to abide by boating laws and practice safety. Even if you think you are in control of the situation, always remember that there may be others that are unaware of their surroundings that could cause an accident. Try to avoid these situations before they happen by practicing some of these simple tips, and remember to read all the laws and regulations before going out. Be safe and have fun this summer!

Ben Watts learned to love wakeboarding on Lake Martin. He is a student at Auburn University and takes every opportunity to get behind the boat.

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This magnificent lake home by architect Mitch Ginn is designed for easy living and entertaining.

With 4 bedrooms and 4 baths, a spacious great room with stone fireplace, and the open kitchen and dining make this 2500+ sq foot cottage the best lake living around. Features of the 170 ft of waterfront include a stacked stone seawall, stationary and floating dock, and a sandy beach for enjoying water activities. Don’t miss your chance to own one of the last new construction homes in one of the most sought after developments on Lake Martin.

Live your best life at Cedar Point.

CONTACT DAMON STORY

205–789–9526 CEDARPOINTLAKEMARTIN.COM

Damon Story JUNE 2019

LAKE 73

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74 LAKE

JUNE 2019

Learn to be a real boater

N

law, and it’s a great way to die quickly. ote to readers: This article is not the usual verbiage Keep Passengers Inside the Boat: Boaters know how danyou read in the marine police handbook, boating gerous it is for passengers to sit on the bow of any boat or ponmagazines or boat-owner manuals. Learn the rules in toon with their legs hanging over the side. It is against the law the authoritative manuals and consider the following suggesand leads to many deaths, especially on pontoon boats. You tions as a great way to improve your boating skills on Lake can imagine what would happen with a child who fell forward Martin. These boating suggestions are based on 43 years of when the boat hits a wake. boating experience, more than 20 years on Lake Drinking Boat Drivers: Everyone has heard Martin and more than 20 years of coastal boating the joke about the redneck who says, “Here, hold in larger craft that included crossing the Gulf of my beer and watch this!” This joke probably Mexico and running the intercostal waterways, applies more to boat drivers than to any other rivers, canals and bayous. group of drinkers. Alcohol, sunshine, heat, fun Boats are not cheap to own and operate, and and picnicking in the boat is great, but the boater misuse can be expensive or deadly, as we have becomes a boat driver when any form of alcohol seen just in the last month on our lake, as an influences his ability to operate a boat. Our lake Auburn man was killed when his boat was struck has recently experienced a death and at least one in the first of two collisions in which it was injury in a three-boat accident involving alcohol. involved about an hour apart (see page 16).

It should not have happened. Be safe and be a It’s important to note that being able to afford a HOBO real boater. boat does not make anyone a good boater. Please

BY JESSE CUNNINGHAM Announcements: The lake has a new outdoor heed these suggestions and be a better boater: church service available. Through a joint effort of New Water Boater vs. Boat Driver: Owning an expensive new boat Farms and Dadeville First Methodist Church, an early morndoes not qualify anyone to be called a boater. A boater knows ing contemporary Sunday service at 8:30 a.m. is conducted the rules and follows them and makes certain he operates the each week at the New Water chapel on the banks of the lake. boat safely for his passengers and others on the lake. A boat The service is a non-denominational, and boaters are welcome. driver does none of these things.

New Water Farms occupies the old Civitan property off county Boats Do Not Have Brakes: Learn this fact before you Road 34 on Sandy Creek. Services will be held each Sunday make an expensive or fatal mistake. Boaters should always through September. approach other boats, docks and swimmers at idle speed, Also, the HOBO Annual Meeting in March was a great sucwhich means absolutely no wake. cess. Moving the meeting date from busy May to cool March No Wake Zones: Boat drivers, look behind your boats at helped to significantly increase attendance and interest. The slow speeds. Do you see any waves behind your boats? If you Lake Harris (Wedowee) FERC relicensing effort is progressing do, slow down until you see no waves. Boaters know what as planned. The Lake Martin HOBOs are participating in the No Wake means. Wakeboat drivers seem to have a special problem with this important rule, probably because wakeboats various studies that impact Lake Martin and will keep members up to date on the multi-year process. The final FERCcarry tons of extra water on board. Also, consider any boat approved study plan can be reviewed on the HOBO website at operation within 200 feet of any dock or shoreline to be a No lakemartinhobos.com.

Wake area.

Keep Your Distance from Other Boats: On Lake Martin, Jesse Cunningham is president of the Lake Martin Home there are more than 7,500 homes, which means there are thousands more boats and PWCs. On weekends, you will be meet- Owners and Boat Owners Association. Visit the website at www.lakemartinhobos.com for more information. ing, passing and interacting with boats. Keep your distance because you don’t know where the other boater plans to go next. Do not trust any boat driver to know how to be a boater.

Docking Lights vs. Headlights: Most pontoon boats today have docking lights. No, these are not headlights. In the middle of the lake at night, docking lights serve no purpose Rehabilitation Services except to act as spotlights that blind the approaching boaters.

• Physical Therapy Spotlights are much worse and are a sure sign of a boat driver • Occupational Therapy (not a boater).

• Speech Therapy Boating at Night: Boating at night could be a very rewarding experience with all the shoreline lights, cool night air and the excitement of putting your life on the line; however, I do Cecily Lee, Administrator Angela Pitts, Director of Nursing not venture out on the lake on weekends because there are too Candi Tate, Clinical Liaison many boat drivers who think it’s fun to scare passengers to death by running 40 miles an hour when he can’t see 50 feet in 2334 Washington Street, Alexander City | 256-329-9061 | www.crownehealthcare.com front of the boat. Do not ride a PWC at night: It is against the

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation

JUNE 2019

LAKE 75

A Look at Property Values

Lake Martin is an attractive investment (still)

A

friend and one of our Realtors here of $439,832 in April of 2014 to $592,763 in at Lake Martin Realty, Ed Dickinson, April of 2019.* That is an increase of 32.34 passed away in 2012. Ed was a great percent or 6.46 percent per year. The median guy, and I miss him because he loved his price increase is even more impressive. The family and his friends – and life in general. median price has increased from $338,000 He was always upbeat and was there for his in April 2014 to $482,500 in April 2019, an family, friends and co-workers. Since Ed was increase of 41.29 percent or 8.25 percent per so positive, I remember lots of things that he year. said.

If people had known that prices were going Ed loved the lake. He frequently said, “Buy to increase this far and fast, we would have LAKE PROPERTY Lake Martin – it is an investment your whole had more transactions in 2013. The lower

BY STEVEN ARNBERG family can enjoy. You can’t take the grandsales volume in 2013 was not due to lack of kids tubing in your IBM stock!” inventory – there was plenty available. It was due to the I am happy to say that my friend Ed was right. Lake economic recession. Sales volume, after the recovery, Martin is not just a fun investment; it is a great investincreased dramatically, almost doubling from 2013 to ment.

2018. Pent-up demand was finally satisfied by 2018 and returned to a normal pace.

A Brief History Until 2009, I had not heard the term “under water” tied Prediction for 2019 – Steady as She Goes to residential real estate, at least not very often. Then, I After a significant increase in average and median heard it with some frequency, almost daily in 2010-2013. prices, one wonders what is likely to happen this year. It What the term means, of course, is how much below puris still pre-season, but I expect to see increases in propchase price the current property value is. erty values near the average of the last six-year period.

Lake Martin, like the rest of the country, experienced The fundamentals to support values are on good footing. decreases in residential property values due to the finanThose fundamentals include: cial crisis. That crisis caused a rush to the exits by people The list-price-to-sales-price ratio is currently 94.8 thinking that they needed to sell at any price. Smart percent, which I would describe as normal, especially as purchasers were happy to take advantage and picked up compared to the 91.6 percent rate of 2013 (This means properties at bargain prices. that a property priced at $100,000 will sell, on average, Since there was little new construction or development, for $94,800). Higher ratios lead to higher selling prices. it was just a matter of time before inventory levels would For instance, 2018 had the biggest single year-over-year decrease and the economy would recover. When those price increase and the highest list-price-to-sales-price two events became a reality, prices would recover. My ratio at 95.9 percent. analysis is that prices did recover and in a big way.

A Look at the Numbers As you can see on the Average Sales Price chart below, the average sales price has increased from the low point

In addition, the fact that properties are selling faster than normal (see Days on the Market chart above) sup76 LAKE

JUNE 2019

ports price increases. Currently, properties are selling, on average, in 160 days. Normal marketing time is roughly 180 days, like in 2016, and the current rate is much faster than the 2013 period when marketing time averaged 233 days.

Finally, the amount of inventory on the market has reached what I would describe as a normal level. The high of a 20.56-month supply came in 2013. Contrast that with 2018, where there was a 10.7-month supply (helping to drive a big increase in value) and the 11.52-month supply at the time of this writing. Current inventory is at the lowest level with 286 units versus 297 at this time last year (see Current Active Listings chart below). Smaller supply usually leads to higher prices in a good economy.

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR HOUSE CLEANING • INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REMODELING • GUTTER REPAIRS RE & CLEANING • PAINTING • PRESSURE WASHING • SEAWALLS • DOCKS • ROOFING • PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • TRASH PICKUP

My friend, Ed, would have loved this market. There is nothing like having years of unforgettable memories with family and friends at your lake place and having your net worth increase at the same time. Cheers to folks like Ed who loved Lake Martin enough to make it home.

If you own a place on Lake Martin, congratulations.

The numbers tell me we have smooth sailing for the foreseeable future. * Rather than look at volatile month-over-month numbers, I prefer to look at a 12-month rolling average. This shows trends more clearly. This article was written in early May for a June publication, and the most complete MLS data was for the 12-month period ending April 30, 2019. The year-over-year comparisons will have eight months of business for the prior year. 2017 was the best year on record (January through December), and eight months of 2017 business went into the 2018 data, making it appear to be the best on record.

Steven Arnberg is vice president of real estate sales for Russell Lands. In that role, he serves as company broker for Russell Lands On Lake Martin Real Estate, LLC, and Lake Martin Realty, LLC. He also is involved in all of Russell Lands’ development activities and architectural reviews. He has served in these roles since 2003.

We want to meet all your household needs!

Wes Waters | 256.596.1428 JUNE 2019

LAKE 77

Pickled Shrimp Ingredients

1 pound gulf shrimp – peeled, deveined, boiled and chilled 2 ribs celery thinly sliced 1 medium sweet onion julienned 2 jalapeño seeded and small diced 1 thinly sliced bulb of fennel 3 thinly sliced cloves garlic Zest of 1 lemon 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1/4 neutral oil, such as canola or grape seed

Directions Place everything in a large glass or plastic bowl, mix well and allow to marinate in the refrigerator for at least six hours. For best results, mix all the ingredients every couple of hours and again just before serving. Serve with crackers or crusty bread and a little herb aioli.

CHEF’S TABLE

BY ROB MCDANIEL

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

78 LAKE

JUNE 2019

JUNE 2019

LAKE 79

F

The food you love is at the farmers market

armers markets are a true sign of summer. Farmers this Food you find at the farmers market is ultra-fresh and should month are beginning to arrive at their favorite spots on be handled delicately to preserve the natural flavor. Keeping street corners, parking lots or alongside local roads to preparations simple will allow you to enjoy the natural taste of display their beautiful harvests of fruit and vegetables. The the produce.

Main Street Alexander City Farmers Market will be up and After you bring your produce home, there are several tips running on Saturday mornings throughout the summer months to keeping your fruit and vegetables fresh. To maintain quality, – starting on the first Saturday of this month. Farmers markets the rule of thumb is that if the item is usually refrigerated in the provide the easiest way to eat local, and they foster grocery store, it should be refrigerated at home. the avenue for us to consume more fresh fruit and If your produce rots within a few days, you vegetables. may be storing incompatible fruit and vegetables Local farmers may be able to help you overcome together. Some fruits produce ethylene gas durthe barrier of thinking produce is too expensive or ing ripening, which will ripen other produce if the thought that you simply don’t enjoy the taste. they are stored together. Ethylene gas releasers You can talk to the individual farmers about their include apples, apricots, cantaloupe, figs, honfarms and learn exactly where the produce comes eydew, kiwi, plums, avocados, unripe bananas, from. In most cases, you will find that farmers marnectarines, peaches and tomatoes. Gas-sensitive ket food is more affordable, and the taste far surproduce includes ripe bananas, broccoli, Brussel passes that from commercial grocery stores because sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, cucumbers, it is locally grown and ripened. eggplant, lettuce and leafy greens, peas, pepFarmers markets are the perfect place to find pers, squash, sweet potatoes and watermelon.

HEALTHY LIVING These two different groups should not be stored beautiful selections of your favorite summer foods

BY JULIE HUDSON and encounter new foods, as well. Local farmers together. can answer any questions you may have regarding Focus on eating the produce with a shorter life their produce, especially recommendations on preparing and span first to reduce food waste. Apricots, blackberries, raspberserving the food. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or not, a ries, strawberries, herbs, sprouts, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, few recommendations for navigating a farmers market can be green beans, leafy greens, lima beans, mushrooms, peas and helpful. summer squash all have a shorter life span. Produce with longer If you want to avoid the crowds, going to the market when life spans include apples, pears, beets, carrots, garlic, onions, it opens or when it is about to close can be the most crowded potatoes and winter squash. Thoroughly rinse and scrub the times. If you are looking for deals, go to the market late. entire fruit or vegetable – even the edible skins and seeds – cutFarmers sometimes discount items before closing time to avoid ting away any bruising or blemishes. having to pack it up and take it all back home. Always take a Prepare only what you need or make a plan for leftovers to sturdy bag or backpack, so you can safely carry your produce help reduce food waste. home. In addition, it is helpful to bring small bills, so the vendCreativity in preparing your fruit and vegetables will ers can easily make change. lengthen the benefit of purchasing fresh produce. If you cannot Many people go to markets and leave empty handed or with consume all of your produce, preserve it by making it frozen bags so full that the produce will go uneaten. This is where a food. Blanch vegetables before placing in airtight containers to little planning may help. help preserve color and texture. Fruit can be cut before placing For example, it might be beneficial to know what is in seain airtight containers. If you have produce that is at the end of son. You could do some research or simply talk to the farmers its shelf life, you can be creative and puree the fruit for smoothabout what will be coming in future weeks. As you become ies and make vegetables into hummus. Fruit can be mashed for more familiar with a market, you can think ahead to what meals a pancake or served as a topping for waffles. Fruit can be diced you might prepare for the week. This will allow you to know and made into salsa. Slightly overripe vegetables can be sautéed what to purchase in order to reduce waste. for a pasta dish, pizza topping or roasted in the oven to make a Buying in volume will help reduce the cost. Use the produce tasty burrito or sandwich wrap. in new recipes within a few days; and then, preserve the rest by The Main Street Alexander City Farmers Market begins freezing or canning for later use.

Saturday, June 1. It will be open every Saturday from 7 a.m.

Spontaneity can be a good practice. You may be surprised until 11 a.m. The farmers market is located on Broad Street in when you go to the market for an item to find there are new downtown Alexander City, and it is the only farmers market in items you have not tried. the State of Alabama that does not charge fees to the participatRemember, food that comes to the farmers market is “whole ing vendors. food.” There has been no processing involved, which will provide a superior flavor; however, beware, as you may find that Julie Hudson is a dietician at Lake Martin Wellness Center some of the produce may still have dirt or greens attached. in Dadeville.

80 LAKE

JUNE 2019

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JUNE 2019

LAKE 81

Summer Fishing 82 LAKE

JUNE 2019

T

here once was a time when anglers’ enthusiasm stripers seek out generally pull them away from the dense would hit a checkpoint as the days got longer habitat that the largemouth prefer. and water temperatures rose to near 80 degrees.

The point is this: Understand the preferences of the Coming off a strong spring bite when the fish were movspecies you target and its seasonal habits, and you’ll be ing and feeding in the shallows, it seemed as though they more successful more often. In the early summer, water just didn’t bite as well once that checkpoint was reached. temperatures in the shallows have heated to a point that is There were a few vigilante anglers who were offshore less than optimal for most species of bass, but this doesn’t specialists and pretty much mopped up a lot of the commean there are no more fish in the shallows. petition.

There are still plenty of fish that remain. They will With time, more anglers have become proficient at just be more selective in the areas they choose to hang seeking out fish that have vacated the more obvious out. For example, the water temperature in a shallow bay shoreline targets. With the help of technology in the form may be in the 80-degree range; yet, a large dock or overof more and better sonar options and lake-mapping prohanging tree can cast enough shade over a tiny area to grams, anglers now are more equipped to take on those keep it slightly cooler. There may not be as many fish in areas that once likened catching a fish to trying to find a that shallow bay as there were in April, but the ones that needle in a haystack. decided to hang around may concentrate in that one desirAnglers are also more connected than ever able location. today. And they’re able to learn techniques The result is an opportunity to be efficient. at hyper-speed through a variety of media Rather than fishing the entire bay, concenoutlets. The end result is that we anglers trate on the few areas that seem to offer good have more options for catching fish than ever shade, and the overall results can be amazing. before, regardless of the season.

The larger masses of fish may choose to Early summer has become a season that migrate to areas that are deeper in the form anglers look forward to. Yes, the lakes are of offshore structure. Spots on Lake Martin busier with recreational traffic. Over time, are willing to travel a little farther from their we’ve learned that the wakes caused by recspring areas than the largemouth. Spots will reational traffic can help position fish and also form larger schools while largemouth even trigger them to feed better than when will be more isolated and rarely are found in the lake is calm. There was a time when groups of more than two or three. some of us thought that summer fish could For example, there might have been a proBIG CATCHES only be caught well early in the morning ductive shallow area in April and May, but

BY GREG VINSON or at night. I’ve since experienced plenty of the bites have dwindled. Start moving toward times when the lake was in a froth from boat a deeper creek channel. The largemouth may traffic and the bite was as hot as the weather. prefer to just hang in the 8-foot to 12-foot range just outOne of the keys to finding and staying on early sumside the pocket and around some cover. All the while, the mer post-spawn fish is to understand why they do what spots may have chosen to go to a main lake or main creek they do. Fish, in general, will almost always seek out the point and set up in 20-plus feet. areas that provide them the best feeding opportunities Largemouth will generally be larger in size but fewer with the least amount of effort. Where the food goes, so in number and slower to react to baits. The spots, since do the game fish that we usually target. they are aggressive feeders in a larger and more competiAll different species of fish have comfort zones that tive school, will be easier to catch, but a smaller percentare driven by water conditions, habitat and food. Spotted age of them will be over 2.5 pounds – a decent quality bass, for example, are very comfortable in deeper water fish on Lake Martin. that often offers less habitat than largemouth prefer. Both In next month’s article, we’ll look at the bait choices species are highly successful feeders in their preferred and techniques in more depth. In the meantime, consider environments. the forage that the fish will be feeding on in shallow vs.

Stripers are more pelagic roamers and are very comdeep water. In deep clear water, the fish are likely to be fortable in open water. Habitat is a low priority, as long feeding on blueback herring that suspend and roam over as they have a zone in the water column that has suitable channels. In more stained and/or shallow water, especially temperature and oxygen levels. At times, certain species in the upper portion of the lake or back of a creek, the will mix when their preferred environments are combined. fish are more likely to be dialed into threadfin shad and It’s not uncommon to fish an offshore area targeting spot- bream that relate more to cover and the bottom. Choose ted bass and catch a nice largemouth − vice versa. baits that mimic these types of forage and their habits, There have been plenty of times when I hooked up and chances are you’ll be ahead of the game when we with nice stripers in the process of targeting spotted bass look a little closer into how to catch fish in the summer. on humps and points with little cover; although, I haven’t caught very many largemouth in the same areas as stripGreg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on ers. Of course, it can happen at certain times of the year the Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour. He lives in when water temperatures are cooler and the stripers are in Wetumpka and grew up fishing on Lake Martin. shallower water. But in the summer, the depths and areas JUNE 2019

LAKE 83

Navy Grog

CHEERS!

BY MARK GILLILAND Mark Gilliland is the owner of Ocie & Belle's at 41 Main St., Alexander City.

The Navy Grog is a tiki-style cocktail that consists of three ounces of rum. It was created for the first time at Don the Beachcomber in Hollywood, California, in 1941.

84 LAKE

JUNE 2019

Navy Grog Ingredients 1 ounce Pusser’s Rum 1 ounce Appleton Estate Rum 1 ounce Cane Run Rum

1/4 ounce Allspice Dram 3/4 ounce lime juice 1/2 ounce grapefruit juice 1/2 ounce honey syrup

(256) 234-6366

How To Make It Add all the ingredients into a shaker filled with crushed ice and shake until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh crushed ice. Garnish with a mint sprig.

V (256) 487-0308

(256) 825-9244

We Touch the Lives of the People You Love

Assisted Living & SCALF Short Term Rehab

(256) 839-6711

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Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy Long Term Skilled Nursing Care LAKE 85 5/21/19 9:21 AM

Haley Fuller 256.750.2411

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Jerry Purcell 205.382.3417

Allison Ladson 256.750.0711

Haley McKelvey 256.749.8353

Damon Story 205.789.9526

Mike Davis 256.226.1238

Lindsay Kane 256.675.6792

Amy Duncan 256.212.2222

India Davis 256.749.7592

Judy Voss 256.794.0779

Rhonda Jaye 256.749.8681

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Sawyer Davis 205.965.7940

Ashley Chancellor 334.202.9017

David Mitchell 256.212.3511

Howard Haynie 334.312.0693

Leroy Sellers 256.496.2141

Randall Rogers 334.707.5804

Chad McKelvey 256.749.4018

Mimi Rush 334.399.7874

Bottom line

We sell more property in the Lake Martin area than anyone else. It’s all we do — and we can’t wait to do it for you.

We’re the Market Leader Lake Martin Waterfront Market Share

50.8%

LAKE MARTIN REALTY/ RUSSELL LANDS ON LAKE MARTIN

*LMAAR/MLS Member Firms Sales Volume Data May 2018 - April 2019

Dadeville

256.825.9092

Willow Point 256.212.1498

L a k e M a r t i n R e a l t y. c o m

Ourtown

256.212.1498

PGA Jr. League P

GA Jr. League is shifting the perception of youth golf and the way the game is learned and played. The program brings family and friends together around fun, team golf experiences with expert coaching and instruction from PGA and LPGA professionals. It’s a game changer, and we’re so excited to offer PGA Jr. League to the Alexander City community.

The Willow Point PGA Jr. PAR for the COURSE League program is open to boys

BY MATT SHEPPARD and girls ages 13 and under of all skill levels – no golf experience is required. Kids will learn the game and enjoy relaxed competition in a two-person scramble format that encourages mentorship, builds confidence and teaches sportsmanship.

Sign up at www.pgajrleague.sportngin.com/register/ form/962037660.

The program fee for PGA Jr. League at Willow Point is $200. Practices will begin the first week of June, and each PGA Jr. League golfer will receive: n Two high-quality team jerseys – one orange and one blue (for home and away games). Jerseys are available in boys and girls sizes and are customizable with the team name and player’s chosen jersey number; n Performance T-shirt, hat, bag tag, stickers and drawstring bag; n A minimum of 10 one-hour practices at Willow Point Golf and Country Club; n Instruction from a minimum of two golf professionals at each practice; n A minimum of four matches, all matches will be conveniently located at Willow Point; n Opportunity to advance to All-Star teams during the post-season.

All participants will have the opportunity to participate in any of Willow Point Golf and Country Club’s Junior Golf programs throughout the duration of the summer.

If the price of the program is a barrier, scholarships could be available for children who are currently on a free or reduced lunch program at school.

If you have any questions, please contact PRA Pro Matt Sheppard at msheppard@russelllands.com, call 256-2121409 or visit PGAJrLeague.com. Follow @pgajrleague on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to learn more.

We look forward to a fun PGA Jr. League season at Willow Point!

Golf builds confidence and teaches sportsmanship

Early instruction helps young players avoid development of bad habits

Games help young golfers develop control

Matt Sheppard is the PGA Director of Golf at Willow Point Golf and Country Club.

JUNE 2019

LAKE 87

Legend

63

22

280

To Sylacauga

14

22

Alexander City

Public Boat Ramps 18

9

Churches

Camp ASCCA

Flint Hill Church

Camps & Parks

16

Power lines U.S. Highways

280

3

22

County Roads Piney Woods Landing

Wind Creek State Park

Pleasant Grove Church

11

COOSA COUNTY

Alex City Boat Ramp

Mt. Zion Church

259 9

10

128

Russell Farms Baptist Church 63

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

Friendship Church

15 20

New Hope Church

Liberty Church

7 24

Willow Point

24

6

11

Equality

Paces Point Boat Ramp

63

Camp Alamisco

12

Kowaliga Boat Landing

21 The Ridge

55

4

Seman

Camp Kiwanis

1 13

Church in The Pines

23

2

The Amp Ko w

ali

17

ga

Ba

y

80

9

Central

90

Union

ELMORE COUNTY Union Church

Red Hill 63

229

Eclectic

Tallassee

19 Kent

88 LAKE

Union Landing

Children’s Harbor

Trillium

34

JUNE 2019

Timbergut Landing

Horseshoe Bend National Park

Jaybird Landing

Lake Martin Alabama Marinas

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

11. Kowaliga Marina 256-397-1210

255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 22. The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

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

250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

49

Jacksons Gap

42. Real Island Marina 256-397-1200

2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026

280

53. Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Bethel Church

20

62. Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

Dadeville

73. Smith Marina 256-444-8793

57

280

Camp Hill

Smith Landing

92. Lakeside Marina 256-825-9286

7361 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Pleasant Ridge Church

10 2. Lakeside Marina at Bay Pines 256-825-0999

3455 Bay Pine Rd., Jackson's Gap, AL 36861

14

Restaurants & Venues

Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters

11 6. SpringHouse 256-215-7080

12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Stillwaters

8 5

9

6. Catherine’s Market 12 256-215-7070

17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 13 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

Walnut Hill

50

3. Harbor Pointe Marina 8 256-825-0600

397 Marina Point Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853 www.harborpointe.net

25

14 Lake Martin Pizza

256-392-5454

2 Broad St., Alex City, AL 35010 256-373-3337

5042 Hwy 49, Dadeville, AL 36853

Business & Shopping 15 Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075 970 Hwy. 63 South, Alex City, AL 35010 16 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481 5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, AL 35010 17 5. Lake Martin Mini Mall 334.857.3900

7995 Kowaliga Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 18 256-234-2567

1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 19 4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132

1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Building Supply 20 256-825-4256

350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 214. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

288 Stables Loop, Alex City, AL 35010 22 4. Dark Insurance 256-234-5026

410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 23 . Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 24 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt @ Smith's Marina 256-444-8793

Churches 25 Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293 970 Hwy. 63 South, Dadeville, AL 36853

50

49

Reeltown

Advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map for as little as $25. Contact our Marketing Department at 256-234-4281 or marketing@alexcityoutlook.com for more information.

JUNE 2019

LAKE 89

Lake Magazine Distribution ALEXANDER CITY Alex City Marine American Inn Anytime Fitness Baymont Inn BB&T Big B Bar-B-Q Campus of CACC Carlos Mexican Grill Catherine’s Market Chamber Of Commerce Cherokee Quick stop Citgo Cloud Nine Collegiate Deli Comfort Inn Dark Insurance Darwin Dobbs Days Inn Discount Food Mart 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's Lake Martin Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store

Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc Touchless Boat Covers The Medicine Shoppe The Sure Shot Valley Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon

CHELSEA Winn-Dixie The Ditsy Daisy Boutique CHILDERSBURG Piggly Wiggly DADEVILLE Bay Pine Marina Blue Creek Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foshee's Boat Doc 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 Renfroes Root 49 at Lake Martin Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 USAmeribank

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

EQUALITY

KELLYTON Five Star Plantation MOUNTAIN BROOK Whole Foods Market

RED HILL Citgo SYLACAUGA Good Ole Boys BBQ Piggly Wiggly

TALLASSEE Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce Tallassee Automotive Tallassee Community Library The Tallassee Tribune

WALNUT HILL Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA The Wetumpka Herald A limited number of magazines are placed at these locations.

To start your subscription, call Linda Ewing at 256-234-4281.

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star INVERNESS Winn-Dixie Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Arena Tree Top Family Adventure

Lake Martin Business and Service Directory

COACH KRAFT

UPHOLSTERY Complete Marine Upholstery!

■

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

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

90 LAKE

H

OLMAN

“WE’RE

F

LOOR

C

OMPANY

THE PROFESSIONALS”

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

Locally Owned for Over 45 Years

256-234-6071

1945 Hwy 280 • Alexander City

JUNE 2019

Lake Martin Business and Service Directory

• Automotive Parts • Machine Shop • Paint & Body Supplies • Hydraulic Hose Assemblies

specializing in:

Window Treatments Plantation Shutters • Shades & Blinds

Custom Tile Installation

150 Green Street Alexander City, AL 35010

Showers • Backsplash

(256) 234.5023

Flooring Installation

157 South Street Dadeville, AL 36853

Wood • Tile • Carpet

40611 US Hwy 280, Sylacauga, AL 35150

Jeremy 256-750-5784

(256) 825.4155

Licensed & Insured. Certified.

(256) 245.5296

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

334-332-3435 334-391-0759 IN-HOME CARE SERVICES

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Residential | Commercial | Interior | Exterior

256-496-6532 6 Broad Street | Alexander City, AL

Performance!

Visit LoveLakeMartin.com

Our goal is to keep our clients as active as possible in their own homes to promote overall health and well being.

With our personally tailored care plans, you will receive the individual care you need with the dignity and respect you deserve.

Homemaking... Personal Care... Companionship

Lake Martin innovation Center

256-307-4061 Harold Cochran 256.234.2700

175 aLiant Parkway • aLexander City, aL

LAKE

(256) 414-6090

Paige Patterson

haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

columbus-auburn.certapro.com Mike&Kris DobbsOwners1550OpelikaRoadSuite6Box294�| Auburn,AL36830 EachCertaProPainters ® businessis independently ownedandoperated.

Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.

205-616-8046

www.paigepatterson.com

Relax. Enjoy. Lake Martin.

Call to order your subscription 256-234-4281

MAGAZINE

JUNE 2019

LAKE 91

Our Advertisers n To Join, Call 256.234.4281 A&M Plumbing.............................................................68

First Baptist Church Alexander City........................................... 8

Paige Patterson, Lake Martin Voice Realty...................... 91

Alabama Power.............................................................. 3

First Community Mortgage........................................ 6

Phil Interior Design....................................................56

Alex City Guide Service.............................................. 8

George Hardy D.M.D................................................... 8

Prime Management.....................................................85

Alex City Marine.........................................................65

Harbor Pointe Marina................................................81

Professional Plumbing................................................92

Amanda Scroggins, RE/MAX Around the Lake....59

Heritage South Credit Union..................................74

Renaissance Electronics............................................... 8

Berkshire Hathaway, Ryan Roberts.........................12

Hilltop Landscaping.....................................................81

Rhodes Construction.................................................68

Beyond Home Care...................................................91

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

Russell Lands................................................... 29, 46-47

Big B BBQ.....................................................................16

Holley’s Home Furnishings.......................................96

Russell Marine..............................................................37

Blue Creek Iron Works.............................................91

Holman Floor...............................................................90

Russell Medical.............................................................. 2

Bolton Cove.................................................................28

Jackson Thornton........................................................36

Saint James Episcopal Church..................................56

Brown Machine Fabrication......................................61

Kowaliga Whole Health.............................................91

Satterfield........................................................................ 5

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation....................................... 75

Lake Martin Custom Interiors....................................91

Security Pest Control.................................................. 8

C21 Andrea Gardiner................................................18

Lake Martin Dock.......................................................32

Shae Donna Aesthitics...............................................61

C & T Electric...........................................................................6

Lake Martin Mini Mall................................................36

State Farm, Harold Cochran....................................91

Cahaba Glass................................................................85

Lake Martin Realty............................................... 26, 86

State Farm, Karen Channell......................................91

CertaPro Painters.......................................................91

Laketown.......................................................................14

Sunrise Dock................................................................13

Chic Soul.......................................................................13

Lamberth & Lamberth...............................................65

Temple Medical Center.............................................72

Chuck's Marina............................................................41

Luck of the Draw........................................................91

Thomas Auto Parts.....................................................91

Coach Kraft Upholstery............................................90

MainStreet Alex City.................................................... 6

TowBoat US.................................................................65

Custom Docks.............................................................28

Mark King's Furniture................................................64

Walmart........................................................................91

Damon Story, Cedar Point.......................................73

Moore Wealth Management.....................................95

WealMark Financial.....................................................56

Davco.............................................................................91

National Village............................................................69

Wedowee Marine.......................................................60

Deep Water Dock Services......................................74

Noel Boone..................................................................90

Wind Creek Zip Line.................................................93

Designs by Trish............................................................. 5

Odd Jobs.......................................................................77

WSC..............................................................................57

Docks Unlimited........................................................... 5

Oskar's............................................................................ 8

92 LAKE

JUNE 2019

256-596-3081

93 LAKE

JUNE 2019

Parting Shot Photo by Kenneth Boone

"Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever sunlight remains for them?" ~ Rose Kennedy

94 LAKE

JUNE 2019

Advertisement

Helping Widows Move Forward On Their Own

By Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc.

W

idows are one of the fastest growing demographic groups in the United States. In addition, some of the statistics about widows are startling. The average age that women are widowed is 59 years old. In addition, 70% of Baby Boomer wives will outlive their husbands; 80% of women will be single at death. Half of women over age 65 will outlive their husbands by 15 years.

Every June, Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. (MWM) conducts a free workshop in Montgomery designed especially for widows and their supportive friends. The workshop was produced by Kathleen M. Rehl, PhD, CFP, CeFT in conjunction with the Protective Life Insurance Company. The workshop covers the following topics: the impact of grief and emotion, the 3 stages of widowhood, avoiding common financial mistakes and next steps to take. The June 2019 workshop will be on Monday, June 24th at 12 p.m. at the local office at 51 Clay Street.

Please call 256.234.2761 for more information and reservations.

Kathleen Rehl is a financial advisor who was widowed at the age of 60. she and her husband 95 Although LAKE

The loss of a spouse can be devastating, both emotionally and financially, especially if it was unexpected. The stress of handling all of the legal and financial issues can be overwhelming, even for women who are financially savvy. had been financial advisors for a number of years and she had helped various clients go through the financial and legal issues after the death of a spouse, it was a more difficult experience for her than she would have expected. “For me personally,” she said, “I didn’t remember my Social Security number. I couldn’t recall where I put my car keys. I wondered if I was going crazy. I wasn’t. It was just a normal part of being a new widow.”

Attendees to the workshop receive a free copy of Rehl’s book, Moving Forward on My Own, A Financial Guidebook for Widows, in addition to other valuable educational materials. Susan Moore and MWM conduct a variety of workshops and seminars every month. The mission statement of MWM is very simple: “and then some.” We attempt to do what is expected, what is required and then some. The Moving Forward on Your Own workshop for widows is part of our monthly “and then some” workshops. In addition, MWM conducts monthly current events market updates that attempt to explain what is going on in the financial world. If you would like to be on the mailing list or receiveJUNE email2019 notifications

of upcoming seminars, please call 256.234.2761.

Moore Wealth Management will be hosting a workshop for widowers at a later date.

Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., is a financial advisor and principal of Moore Wealth Management, Inc., with offices in Alexander City, Auburn, and Montgomery, AL. Managing over $150 million in brokerage and advisory assets, she has been a financial planner for over 35 years. She is affiliated with LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC, the nation’s largest independent broker-dealer. Contact Susan at 256.234.2761. Email contact is susan@moorewealthmanagement. com. * Based on total revenues, as reported in Financial Planning magazine, June 19962018.

Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor.

Member FINRA/SIPC Kathleen M. Rehl, PhD, CFP, CeFT, Protective Life Insurance Company, Moore Wealth Management and LPL are all separate entities. *Rehl, Kathleen M. PhD, CFP, CeFT, Moor, Carolyn C. Leitz, Linda Grable, and John E. (2016, January) Widows “Voices: The Value of Financial Planning.” Journal of Financial Services Professionals

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JUNE 2019 Alexander City 256.234.4141 • Montgomery 334.279.3101