JUNE 2016
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Letter from the Editor
L
ate one afternoon last month, we caught up with the Garmin survey crew near Wind Creek State Park. They were taking sonar readings of the entire lake bottom, and the company will use the data to create a map that could help fishermen be more productive at Lake Martin. We had a great time talking with the Garmin guys that sweet, sunny day on the lake, and you can read about their project on page 66 of this issue of Lake magazine. But that was just the beginning of the great time we had putting this issue together for you. That same afternoon, we slipped into Hog Pen Slough to get a photograph for this month’s Geo 101 feature on page 20. A homeowner there had put up a martin house, and while we waited for our wake to settle, the royal purple birds entertained us as they darted through and around the boat’s cockpit and tower with remarkable agility; one martin almost landed on my shoulder but chose the boat gunnel beside me instead. It was one of those magical moments that occur at the lake when you’re least expecting it. With a name like “Hog Pen Slough,” you might expect something a little less magical than the glassy water and quiet retreat we found that afternoon, but our sojourn there was very pleasant, as was our next stop. We visited with a lone fisherman and his dog in a small craft out in the big water. The sun had edged toward the horizon, and Bob Lanford was about to call it a day when we happened by to snap the Parting Shot on page 98. For this issue, we also took a trip to the west side of the lake and got a photo of Smith’s Marina, which is open full throttle serving Shipwreck Sam’s yogurt this summer between Kowaliga and Parker Creek. Learn more about the old marina in Lacey Howell’s article on page 38. Lacey also brings you the scoop on restaurant renovations around the lake from Chuckwalla’s new pizza kitchen and rooftop dining to Herb Winches’ expansion at The Landing at Parker Creek. Check out that story on page 32. And you’ll want to catch the Jazz Fest preview on page 60 and join us on page 26 to find out what’s up for the Annual Fourth of July Boat Parade – the 40th anniversary of this event on the lake! We hope this issue of Lake helps you to enjoy the magic of summer on Lake Martin, and we hope you'll share your magic lake moments with us. Share your photos with us at editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.
Chairman KENNETH BOONE
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Publisher STEVE BAKER
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Managing Editor BETSY ILER
editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
Assistant Magazine Editor MIA OSBORN
mia.osborn@alexcityoutlook.com
Marketing/Advertising Director TIPPY HUNTER
tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.com
EMILY GREGG
emily.gregg@alexcityoutlook.com
Circulation Manager DAVID KENDRICK
david.kendrick@alexcityoutlook.com
Creative Services AUDRA SPEARS
audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com
DARLENE JOHNSON
darlene.johnson@alexcityoutlook.com
HALLIE HOLLOWAY
hallie.holloway@alexcityoutlook.com
Contributors KENNETH BOONE JOHN COLEY HENRY FOY DAVE HEINZEN JULIE HUDSON ROB MCDANIEL CLIFF WILLIAMS
LEE WILLIAMS MITCH SNEED DAVID GRANGER ROBERT HUDSON LACEY HOWELL GREG VINSON
All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of:
256-234-4281 Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011
Betsy Iler, Managing Editor 4 LAKE
Staff
JUNE 2016
On the Cover Cover: Two survey crews last month manned custom-made boats to collect sonar data of the lake bottom in a project that will develop a new fishing aid for Lake Martin anglers. The LakeVü High Def SD card will provide information about the structures and composition of the lake floor, information that could help anglers locate and catch fish here. Photo by Kenneth Boone.
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Contents 25. START SAFE Tips for a fun and safe season on Lake Martin this year 26. PATRIOTS ON PARADE The 40th Annual Fourth of July Boat Parade has new prize categories this year
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32. NEW AND RENEWED EATS AT THE LAKE Restaurant remodels and expansions greet patrons at the lake this summer 38. SMITH'S MARINA Gasoline and frozen yogurt on the northwest side of the lake 50. FRESH LOOK AT HOLIDAY SHORES Fine finishes showcase Birmingham couples' Lake Martin renovations 60. JAZZ FEST This year's line-up includes Tab Benoit and Wet Willie for free concerts at the lake 66. GARMIN MAPS LAKE MARTIN IN 3D HD Global GPS tech company takes sonar readings of the lake bottom for fishing aid product
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LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES:
e
- edition
44
9. LAKE’S QUICK GUIDE
74. LAKE Q&A
TO THE LAKE
76. LAKE PROPERTY
10. LAKE SCENES
79. BEHIND THE BOAT
12. WHERE IS LAKE?
80. HOBO
14. LAKE EVENTS
82. BIG CATCHES
18. LAKE MARTIN NEWS
87. CHEF'S TABLE
20. GEO 101
84. HEALTHY LIVING
44. NATURE OF THE LAKE
88. FROM THE CELLAR
70. FAB FINDS
91. PRO TIPS & TEE TALK
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.issuu.com.
JUNE 2016
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LAKE MARTIN BUILDING SUPPLY
2695 Dadeville Road
8 LAKE
256.234.5500
Alexander City, AL
JUNE 2016
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
April 2016 April 2013 April 2010
23 22 18
$514,557 $412,164 $429,662
$371,000 $370,000 $342,175
142 243 187
353 408 475
12.35 21.19 25.56
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 Lake Martin Realty, LLC. (A Russell Lands, Inc. affiliated company.)
Relicensing Fast Facts
June's Fishing Forecast
In the year 2021, Lake Martin’s winter water level will drop 10 feet for weed control and maintenance of docks and seawalls as part of the 6-year cycle included in the recent relicensing of Martin Dam. The new license, issued last December and effective January 2016, raised the rule curve for winter water to 484 feet mean sea level (msl), which allows access to six additional public boat ramps throughout the year. And extends the season for many recreational activities on the lake. The higher water level year-round also increases availability to anglers over the winter. But once every six years, the winter water level will drop to 481 feet msl to allow homeowners access to dock footings and seawalls to make repairs. The lower water level also would aid in the control of invasive vegetation, as many of these species could not survive on the exposed shoreline of the 10-foot drawdown. The 6-year winter level means property owners who now will keep boats in the water longer at the deeper water levels would need to make boat storage plans every six years, starting in 2021. To help property owners remember to plan for the provision, a spokesperson for Alabama Power Company said, the company would issue a public notice well ahead of the 10-foot drawdown.
Lake levels during the last month Summer: 491 MSL Winter: 481 MSL Highest: 490.66 Lowest: 490.51 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. For up-to-date lake levels, log on to https://lakes.alabamapower.com.
The rules of fishing change this month as summer comes to the lake in full force. Daytime bass fishing becomes more of a challenge in June, according to Randy Baker of Fish Tales Bait & Tackle in Alexander City. "As far as bass, it's going to be early morning or late afternoon when they can still be caught with topwater baits," Baker advised. With their spawning season over, bass will slow down and go into deeper water. They may also be found underneath brush piles. Other types of fish follow this pattern as well, including crappie and striper. Crappie tend to stay in 15-25 feet of water. Striper will retreat to betwen 25 and 35 foot depths but can still be lured up with live bait. Night fishing continues to be a good option as the weather heats up and fish remain more active later. Catfish and bream are two exceptions to the deep water rule in June. "Catfish will move up as the water warms," said Baker. Catfish will respond to a variety of sink baits and live baits, such as night crawlers, chicken liver, or anything else that stinks. Bream bed near the end of May and can be found around piers. "For people visiting the lake with kids who want to catch something, bream are your best bet," said Baker. Like catfish, bream are best hooked with live bait, such as crickets and worms.
Lake Martin's weather outlook for June Year to Date
April 2016 Forecast
Our Normal June Precipitation: 4.45 inches Avg. high temp.: 87.7 Avg. low temp.: 65.6 Average temp.: 76.7
Information from the National Weather Service.
Precipitation: 24 inches Avg. high temp.: 66.8 Avg. low temp.: 42.2 Average temp.: 54.5
JUNE 2016
Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the upper 80s with lows in the low to mid 60s and nearly 5 inches of precipitation in the month of June. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be at average levels this month, and rainfall will be at slightly above average levels.
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LAKE SCENE
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
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Reader Submissions (1) Mary Mae Howard is all smiles after a day at the lake with grandfather Rhett Farrior. (2) Stephen Lindsey takes a fall while water skiing. (3) Eve Martin took this photo from the Bay Pines Marina on a foggy morning. (4) Lindi Rucker snapped this photo of Lake Martin shining in the spring sunlight. (5) Sawyer the dog keeps watch from the dock in this shot by Jordan Drummond.
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LAKE SCENE
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
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Reader Submissions (1) Cheryl Gainer McCall spotted this pileated woodpecker near her parent's home at the base of Smith Mountain. (2) Jeff Rickard sent in this photo after a storm blew over Willow Glynn. (3) Kyle Thornton took this photo of Catherine's Market on a bright spring morning. (4) A butterfly basks in the sun in this photo from Randy McClendon.
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WHERE IN THE WORLD IS LAKE?
Email your photos to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
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Reader Submissions (1) Walter Gowan and Muscogee Principal Chief James Floyd read Lake magazine on Muscogee lands in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. (2) The George family gathers around a copy of Lake on vacation to Punta Mita, Mexico. (3) Alpha Chi Omega sisters who attended Auburn University in the 1970s took Lake to Savannah, Georgia. (4) Kenneth and Mary Lyman Boone took Lake for a ride in a pink Buick taxi parked in Ernest Hemingway's driveway at his former house - now a museum - in San Francisco de Paula, Cuba. (5) John Austin Cater and sons Austin, Jr. and Daniel took a copy of Lake to San Diego for the 15th reunion of the USS H.W. Gilmore AS-16.
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ATTENTION, LAKE LOVERS:
YOUR APP IS HERE. The Shorelines app will tell you everything you want to know about your favorite Alabama lakes. If you love life on the lake, you’ll love the Alabama Power Shorelines app. It covers all 14 Alabama Power lakes and gives you the power to stay informed and get the most out of your favorite lake. From the hottest fishing spots to lake levels to generator schedules, you’ll be smarter and safer every time you visit. So download the Shorelines app today or visit APCShorelines.com. Then go jump in a lake. JUST SOME OF THE FEATURES: • Current conditions and water levels • Generation schedules • Fishing hotspots and hunting information • Interactive maps • Information about day-use parks and lake access
apcshorelines.com © 2016 Alabama Power Company
JUNE 2016
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May 27-29 Art on the Lake
ties and future plans. Capt. Jon Archer, Commander of Central District Marine Patrol – which includes Lake Martin –will be our guest. Meeting starts at 9 a.m. at the Harbor House on the Children’s Harbor campus. For additional information, contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289.
This annual art show on the grounds at Children’s Harbor is the official start of summer on Lake Martin and benefits the camp for terminally ill children and their families. Artists across the Southeast showcase their fine crafts from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. For booth informaCALENDAR OF EVENTS tion or to volunteer, contact Vicki Tuggle at 334-857-2021.
WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN
May 27-29 RXR Fest
June 4 Wildlife Habitat Tour
Join Lake Martin QDMA and Tallapoosa County Treasure Forest Association for a Wildlife Habitat Tour, including timber management and wildflowers. Tour will start at 8:30 a.m. from Jerry and Genelle Brown’s Farm at 1030 Saxon Rd. in Goodwater. Whiskers Catfish will provide lunch afterwards. This event is free, but everyone is asked to sign up by calling the Tallapoosa County Extension Office at 256-825-1050 or Jerry Brown at 256-839-5154.
Enjoy music on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads Memorial Day weekend with special festivities at SpringHouse on May 29. Bring chairs and coolers, family and friends to this weekend celebration of another summer on Lake Martin with music, lawn games, food and fun. Sweet Tea will start the music at 6:30 p.m. Friday, followed by Union Road at June 6 8:15 p.m. Saturday features Art and lake lovers browse Summer Reading The Bank Walkers at 6:30 the booths at Art on the Lake Kick-Off p.m. and Atlas Road Crew at Mamie’s Place Children’s 8:15 p.m. Tickets available at Library will hold a kickoff SpringHouse for Sunday night party for its On Your Mark, Get Set … Read! program at 10 festivities with music from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. with Jonathan a.m. at the Alexander City Sportplex. There will be food, Bloom. For details, call Robert Gunn at 256-397-1019. entertainment and information to help kids sign up for the sixweek reading program.
May 27-29 Pop Up Shops & Tent Event
Lakeside Mercantile will host their annual summer starter at 8246 County Road 34 with unique home decor, jewelry, apparel, gifts and food vendors. A preview will be held May 27 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 28 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 29.
May 28 Community Garden Club Pancake Breakfast
The Community Garden Club members will be up early cooking pancakes for all to enjoy from 8 a.m until 10 a.m. at the Artist’s Cabin at Russell Crossroads. Come by and feed the family and help out the garden club.
June 3 Friday On The Green
This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature shadowood from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
June 4 LMRA Annual Membership Meeting
Members are invited to hear an update on association activi-
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June 6-10 Kitty Dark Art Camp
Sponsored by the Dark Family Partners and Radney School, this art camp is a weeklong workshop for children entering grades 1-6 who would like to try their hands at drama/music, mixed media, mosaics, drawing/painting and creative movement. To learn more, contact Jamie Dark at 256-329-9816 or jamiewdark@yahoo.com.
June 8, 15, 22 & 29 Children’s Summer Reading Program
The 2016 Children’s Summer Reading program, Build-ABetter-Reader, is set for these four Wednesdays in June. To participate or volunteer, contact Stephens Elementary School at 256-234-8631 or the Lake Martin Area United Way at 256329-3600.
June 10-11 26th Annual Jazz Fest
The best music festival of the summer kicks off on Friday night at Strand Park in Alexander City with music from Jonathan Bloom, Roman Street and Tab Benoit. The concert series moves to the Lake Martin Amphitheater Saturday with three more bands, including Wet Willie and the Brass-A-Holics.
JUNE 2016
This annual concert series is free and fun. Mark your calendars now and look for more details coming soon.
June 11 17th Annual Sheriff’s Girls Ranch Poker Run
This fast and fun card game in which players vie for the $5,000 grand prize raises funds for the local Sheriff’s Girls Ranch. Register a vessel for $450 by calling 334-887-9999. Your entry fee is tax deductible. Players will pick up cards at six Lake Martin locations and then gather at The Landing at Parker Creek for the After Party. This event is worth the ticket price, and the cause is priceless!
June 11 Miss Lake Martin Pageant
The 2016 Miss Lake Martin will be crowned at the Dadeville High School Auditorium. There will be 10 contestants accepted in each of nine age groups from infant to age 21. For information, visit www.pretty-productions.com.
June 11 MainStreet Farmer’s Market
Alexander City kicks off its annual MainStreet Farmer’s Market from 7 until 11 a.m. at Broad Street Plaza downtown. Browse farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, honey and other natural products.
June 11 National Marina Day
Russell Marine marinas will offer discounts on gear and accessories and hot dogs with trimmings at each marina to celebrate customer appreciation on National Marina Day.
June 11 Lil’ Calypso Art Fest
Chuck’s Marina invites everyone to its annual arts and crafts show. Lil’ Calypso features about 45 artists offering a wide selection of visual art, folk art, pottery, wood art, jewelry, fabric art, handmade furniture, painted glass, gourd art, yard art, etc. The festival runs from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Live music will play from the tiki bar starting at 1 p.m. Admission is a donation to the Union Volunteer Fire Department. For more information, contact Jane Garrett-Harris at 334-233-0724.
June 16 United Way Day of Action
Lake Martin Area United Way will sponsor the 2016 Day of Action at three local schools on Thursday, June 16. Sign up to help spruce up educational facilities in our area. For information, call 256-329-3600.
June 17 Friday On The Green
This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature Richard & Rusty from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
June 18 PATH Trash Walk
Volunteers will meet at Flint Hill Methodist Church at 8 a.m. to receive supplies and assignments. Join your neighbors in making ours a cleaner, healthier Lake Martin community. For information, contact John Thompson at 334-399-3289.
June 21 Art Association of Central Alabama
Meet from 9:30 a.m. until noon at the First Baptist Fellowship Hall, Alexander City. Artistic technique in painting, drawing and other arts taught at each meeting. For information, call Martha McKnight 256-825-6503 or Jerri Hallmark 256-825-0595.
June 24 Friday On The Green
This Friday’s free concert on the Russell Crossroads Town Green will feature Sid Phelps from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Bring coolers, blankets, chairs, kids and pets for live music, lawn games and time with family and friends.
June 24 7th Annual Wine and Words
Chuck's Marina will host the 7th Annual Wine and Words to benefit the Friends of the Dadeville Public Library at 6 p.m. Sample signature wines, listen to live music from Russell Craig, and browse books for all ages. Admission is a minimum $5 donation to the library. Enjoy a great time that brings local readers and the summer lake community together! For information, contact Jane Garrett-Harris at 334-233-0724.
June 25 Art Association of Central Alabama
Meet from 9:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. for an art workshop at the First Baptist Fellowship Hall, Alexander City. Artistic technique in painting, drawing and other arts taught at each meeting. For information, call Martha McKnight 256-825-6503 or Jerri Hallmark 256-825-0595.
Season-Long Events Strand Sessions
Free live music and fun await in Alexander City’s Strand Park the first Thursday of each month through August 4 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The musical guest on May 5 will be Dallas Dorsey. Bring coolers, chairs and blankets and enjoy this hometown concert series sponsored by the Lake Martin Young Professionals.
Yoga On The Green
Bring your mat and water bottle to the Town Green at 7 a.m. Every Saturday from Memorial Day weekend through Oct. 1 for yoga.
Wine Tastings
Sample a variety of wines for $5 at Catherine's Market from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and then apply that $5 to your purchase of a bottle of your favorite flavor from the night’s sampling.
JUNE 2016
LAKE 15
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Lake Martin News Marine fighter jets perform lake flyover The Lake Martin F18 fighter jets community was zoom over Lake treated to a show of Martin's River Bridge military force on the afternoon of May 6 when a pair of Marine fighter jets did a flyover as part of routine training. Two F18Ds from Marine Corps Air Station in Beaufort, South Carolina, made a routine training run over the lake on what is called a VR route. The area was in the flight pattern for about 10 minutes at about 4 p.m. and had people stopping along the roadside and looking skyward from their boats. Others in areas around the airport stood with dropped jaws as they saw the impressive sight. “It was awesome,” said 13-year-old Victor Falcon, who stopped with his family at the old Lake Hill Restaurant just in time to see the jets. “They sounded like a bomb when they flew by. I knew what it was, and it still scared me. It was cool to see them here.” The jets caught others by surprise. “I saw them on 280 close to Walmart,” Rhonda Fuller Watts said in a post on the Outlook Facebook page. “Thought we were under attack for a minute. They were fast and very loud.” In addition to buzzing the River Bridge over Highway 280 on two passes, the jets made a low level flyby at the airport. The pair of planes treated those in their path, including some of the vets at Bill Nichols Veterans Home, to quite a show of force. “Jet Noise – the sound of freedom,” Barbara Bradford Austin wrote.
according to a report released Thursday by the Alabama Center for Real Estate (ACRE). ACRE’s report said the median sales price for March was $430,000, an increase of 14 percent from March 2015 and an increase of 31 percent from the prior month. The report also said that historical data show the March median sales price between 2011 and 2015 typically decreases 2.5 percent from February. Arnberg said his numbers show the Lake Martin waterfront market is very healthy. He said in the 12 months ending in March, the average price was up 10.3 percent compared to the 12-month period ending in March 2015, and the median price compared to the same period was up 11 percent. “Anything in real estate above 6 percent is abnormal,” Arnberg said. “Anywhere between 3 and 6 percent is considered a healthy market. When I start looking at my numbers and I see double-digit increases, that’s a fairly significant story.” As an illustration of that significance, Arnberg said the average price for waterfront homes went down between 2013 and 2014. Between 2014 and 2016, he said, prices have increased by 17 percent. And those increases may continue. “I think what we have seen is that the market isn’t really appreciating, but that it’s just recovering lost ground,” Arnberg said. “Over the last year or so, we’ve had pent-up demand, and we’ve had a reduced amount of inventory compared to what we have had. “We’ve had fewer homes for sale, more people buying them, and I think we’ll see that continue. It’s not easy to get a mortgage. There’s not a lot of speculative construction, and there are not a lot of people bringing their homes to the market.” Arnberg said in the last year the inventory of available homes has decreased from 14.46 months to 11.2 months, which is good news for anyone who chooses to sell their home. But Arnberg doesn’t necessarily think it’s a bad time to buy, either. “I think next year we might see the market on Lake Martin get even better,” Arnberg said. ~ David Granger
~ Mitch Sneed
Lake real estate market stays strong “If you own a Lake Martin waterfront home, congratulations,” said Steve Arnberg, vice president for real estate sales for Russell Lands on Lake Martin. The March median sales price of Lake Martin waterfront homes increased over both February and March 2016, 18 LAKE
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The value of lake homes is on the rise
Dixie Sailing Club holds drawdown
The Dixie Sailing Club's annual drawdown funds a sailing program for children on the lake
Dixie Sailing Club (DSC) held its annual Drawdown event last month to raise funds for a youth sailing program on the lake. “The funds from the event will be used for the development of a youth sailing program,” DSC’s Merry Hardy said. “We’ll purchase boats that youth can learn in and race. The funds will also be used to help hire a certified sailing instructor.” A drawdown is a type of raffle in which purchased tickets are drawn at random throughout an event, with the holder of the last remaining ticket named the winner of the $5,000 prize. In addition to the thrill of the drawdown itself, guests enjoyed food, music and drinks. DSC is a 501(c)3 organization, so a portion of the ticket price was tax deductible as well. The event helped the DSC start something that has never been done before in the area. “We are trying to create the first ever sailing school for kids on Lake Martin,” Hardy said. That goal is never far from DSC members’ minds. In last month’s Lake magazine, DSC youth program president Jim Simons spoke about the value of introducing kids to sailing. “I have been sailing since grade school,” said Simons. He counted his early attempt at building a sailboat as an experience that taught him the value of never giving up. ~ Staff reports
JUNE 2016
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Hog Pen Slough 63
Timbergut Landing
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Horseshoe Bend National Park
Jaybird Landing
Alexander City
Camp ASCCA
Flint Hill Church 280 49 22
Jacksons Gap Piney Woods Landing
Wind Creek State Park
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Alex City Boat Ramp
Mt. Zion Church
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Dadeville
Bethel Church
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Russell Farms Baptist Church
D.A.R.E. Park Landing
Friendship Church
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Liberty Church
Camp Hill
Smith Landing Willow Point
Pleasant Ridge Church
Hog Pen Slough
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Camp Alamisco Kowaliga Boat Landing
Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters
The Ridge Church in The Pines Camp Kiwanis
Trillium
Children’s Harbor
GEOGRAPHY 101
Stillwaters
Union Landing
The Amp
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STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTO BY KENNETH BOONE y
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Hog Pen Slough was named for its pre-lake use as a pig farm
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T
he names of some places on Lake Martin are based on physical or geographic characteristics. Needle Eye, Rocky Point and Dead Timber Cove (featured last month in this column) are some of those. Other places are named for people associated with the area, such as Curry’s Point, Woods Island and Parker Creek. Then there are others that make you wonder – like Hog Pen Slough. Hog Pen Slough lies just south of the Wicker Point peninsula, across the lake directly west of the old Pleasure Point Park and Marina. GPS coordinates for Hog Pen Slough are 32.79564 Latitude and -85.90794 Longitude. Hog Pen Slough is more than half a mile long and includes several fingers to the west, one to the north and a couple of small islands on the south side. Capt. David Hare of Alex City Guide Service has reported good luck catching crappie in the area in late winter. And several fishing websites have indicated Hog Pen Slough is a good place to find stripers in June. That makes a lot of sense because in June the water warms up and the fish go deep, and Hog Pen Slough is surprisingly deep. A depth finder will measure 50 feet or more in the feature’s northernmost finger, which lies beyond a narrow mouth. Bill Hardy of Alexander City said he remembers a fence across the land where hogs were raised when he was a boy. Now 96 years young, Hardy grew up on Wicker Point Peninsula before the lake filled the valleys, and his family still leases a Russell cabin in the area. “I think that slough was named for the hog pens that used to be there before the lake,” Hardy said. Hog Pen Slough, incidentally, is infinitely more beautiful than the name might imply. Owned now by Russell Lands, its ragged banks are lined with a pine and hardwood forest and scattered with a few sparsely placed cabins that blend into the natural surroundings. The main slough area offers room for skiing, surfing and tubing, but the water lays like glass in the northern cove to which we retreated one late afternoon last month. That narrow cove stretches all the way back to the Speake Road causeway, and at full pool, it’s probably deeper than it is wide. South of Hog Pen Slough, there’s not another large slough on the river channel’s west shoreline until Perue Creek, which lies a mile to the south just above Windermere at Midway Island. LAKE 21
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Under Arms Full Arms Full Back Chest Shoulders Stomach
Lip Chin Sideburns Full Face Beard Brow Ears
Bikini Brazilian Legs & Feet
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Start Safe
Commander of Lake Martin’s Marine Police weighs in on safety tips and reminders as summer recreation begins
T
STORY BY BETSY ILER
he top three boating safety concerns on Lake Martin are impairment, equipment and courtesy, said Capt. Jon Archer of the central division of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Marine Police unit. He made his remarks in conjunction with National Boating Safety Week, May 21 through 27. “The biggest thing is impaired operation, the consumption of alcohol or use of drugs that would hinder a person from operating safely on the water,” Archer said. “That is a big concern us, especially on holiday weekends.” Being sure all safety equipment is on the vessel and operational every time the boat goes out also is imperative, he said. “Life jackets, fire extinguishers, horns – these are all very important to have with you when you’re boating to keep you safe if something happens on the water,” he said. In addition, make sure that navigational lights are in working order and carry spare bulbs on the boat, so a burned-out bulb could be replaced immediately. “Courtesy goes a long way,” he concluded. “We don’t have lanes or road signs on the lake, so courtesy makes a difference on the water. “I always tell people, ‘why don’t we just slow down?’ You aren’t trying to get to an appointment or a business meeting on the lake, so what’s the hurry? We should never be in a rush on the lake. Slow down and be courteous to other boaters. And one day, when you break down – because all boats eventually do – someone will be courteous to you, too.” Alabama residents must be licensed to drive a boat, and Archer reminded boaters that they can take the safe boating course and examination online through links on the alea.gov website. The online course and
test carry nominal fees. The marine police also offer off-season classes at no charge. “We can do those free boating license classes in the fall and early spring, but with our staffing shortage, we just can’t do that during the season,” Archer said. The National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) last month launched a yearlong campaign to increase life jacket use during recreational water activities. The Wear It! program promotes safe and responsible boating, including the consistent use of life jackets. “It’s tempting to boat without wearing a life jacket, especially on nice days,” said council executive director Rachel Johnson. “A life jacket not worn can’t save your life. Always Wear It!” The campaign includes a YouTube video featuring Bassmaster Elite Series angler Shaw Grigsby, host of the One More Cast television program. The video production, entitled Silly Humans, follows two fish that think they are smarter than people. The video can be watched online at www.youtube.com/user/ OutreachNSBC. In addition to wearing life jackets consistently, the campaign emphasizes the importance of never boating under the influence, gaining a working knowledge of navigational rules and routinely checking and servicing vessels. It’s also a good idea to let someone know the general lake area in which you expect to be boating. Doing so could make a life-or-death difference in the timely arrival of help in case of trouble on the water. According to NSBC records, drowning is the cause of the death in 75 percent of boating accidents nationwide, and most people who drowned were not wearing life jackets. Alcohol was listed as a leading factor in 17 percent of boating deaths.
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LAKE 25
Patriots on Parade
40th Anniversary of the Russell Lands Boat Parade STORY BY MIA OSBORN & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
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B
oat owners across Lake Martin this month will unfurl their biggest American flags and assemble their zaniest outfits in preparation for the 40th Annual Fourth of July Boat Parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor. A Lake Martin tradition, between 40 and 60 watercrafts are expected to gather for the showing off of their patriotic pizzazz this year in a bid for prizes, recognition and just plain fun. According to Russell Marine President Dave Commander, the parade is a treasured tradition that has grown steadily every year since 1976 when the nation celebrated its 200th birthday. “I’ve been at the lake over 30 years, and there’s always been a parade,” he said. “It is getting a little bigger every year, as more and more people come to watch by boat or by land.” This year’s parade starts from Kowaliga Marina at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 4. Boats will follow a circular course, proceeding from the marina and passing under Kowaliga Bridge to reach Children’s Harbor before they turn around and make the trek back to the marina. The 2016 event holds a special significance as the 40th anniversary of the parade. The turnout is expected to be more impressive than that of any previous parade. “Since this is the 40th year, we will have a bigger crowd than ever,” said Russell Lands’ Emily Spink. In keeping with the spirit of the celebration, parade sponsor Russell Marine has added new awards categories and prizes. This year’s event also will include an official grand marshal boat to head up the patriotic fleet. Prizes will be awarded for tallest flag, largest flag, most creative theme and most patriotic crew. First place winners in each category will receive $150 in Russell Marine gift cards, while the second place winners
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will receive $50 in gift cards. New this year is the Best Overall award, which will take into account both boat and crew decorations. The winners of the Best Overall category will be awarded $500 cash, as well as a place on the new wall of honor, a plaque emblazoned with the names of winning crews that will be displayed year-round at Kowaliga Marina. Commander said that while the cash prize is exciting, money has never been the big draw of the parade. “The Fourth of July is a special time,” he said. “Most people want to participate just to get into the spirit.” In the last several years, the celebration has spread from water to air, as Russell Marine customer Kenny Campbell has arranged for a vintage WWII bomber to perform flyovers above the parade route. “We want to raise awareness about what July 4 is all about,” Campbell said. On this historic anniversary, parade organizers also want to make sure that members of the military are on everyone’s minds. “We want to honor our service men and women,” Spink explained. In keeping with that, organizers have reached out to the veterans of the Alexander City Honor Guard, inviting them to be grand marshals. The grand marshals will lead the parade from a special boat and will preside over the event. The parade can be viewed from land or water, but in order to get up close to the action, the best plan may be to grab your brightest red, white and blue outfit and join your friends on the water. Entry into the parade is free, but prior registration is required. The registration deadline is Sunday, July 3. To register or get more information, call Kowaliga Marina at 334-857-2111 or email Wanda Farmer at WFarmer@ RussellLands.com. JUNE 2016
LAKE 29
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LAKE 31
Chuck's put the finishing touches on a new rooftop dining area just in time for Memorial Day weekend
New and Renewed Eats at the Lake Lake Martin eateries add seating and services for the 2016 season STORY BY LACEY HOWELL & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
Foodies rejoice! Lake Martin’s growing lakeside restaurant community has kicked off the summer with expansions, renovations and even whole new restaurants. From east to west and north to south, the food scene at Lake Martin has never been better. Blue Creek’s famous pizza establishment, Chuckwalla’s Pizzeria at Chuck’s Marina, underwent construction last winter to deliver a bigger and better pizza kitchen to customers this spring. The merry turquoise blue building and swaying palm trees may invoke Key West scenery, but this place is Lake Martin all day long. The digs now include rooftop seating with spectacular views of Blue 32 LAKE
Creek. The deck and bar areas are slated to open Memorial Day weekend with pizza service from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and live music all weekend from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Save the date for the annual Lil’ Calypso Art Fest on Saturday, June 11, and Wine and Words on June 24. Chuck’s is located at 237 Marina Rd., Dadeville, Alabama, at the back of Blue Creek. For information, call them at 256-825-7733. Another option on the east side of the lake this year is Copper’s Grill at Stillwaters. This casual dining option opened last year in the Stillwaters Golf Course Clubhouse
JUNE 2016
and offers a shuttle service for boaters. Park the boat in front of the Harbor Point Marina conference center (look for the banner) and call 256-373-3536 for a ride to the restaurant. There, you’ll find a menu of appetizers, salads, lunch combos and entrees, along with sides and desserts and full bar options. Appetizers at this new restaurant on the lake are $6 to $9; sandwiches $7.50 to $10; and entrees, including steaks, run $13 to $26. Copper’s Grill is open from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; and 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Sundays with a Sunday brunch served from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The restaurant is easily accessed by car at 797 Moonbrook Dr., Dadeville, inside the Stillwaters gates. There also have been some changes at The Landing at Parker Creek, which opened last summer with the kitchen and bar housed in shipping containers. Owner Herb Winches added another kitchen container to the landscape over winter. This fast, casual dining concept, conceived
by Austin Singleton and Winches, is centered on pavilion dining with music and yard games. The Landing serves up a variety of burgers, salads and kids’ meals. With craft beers on tap and family yard games provided, there is plenty of entertainment for all ages. The Landing is located at 486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, but easiest access to restaurant is by boat. There are 21 boat slips available. The restaurant keeps weekend hours at the lake. The kitchen is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sundays. The bar is open until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and from noon until 4 p.m. on Sundays. For more information, call 205-410-6091. Willow Point Golf and Country Club members also will have a new dining option this season: The Stone Grille, which closed for renovations at the end of last summer, has re-opened with greater seating capacity and a new menu. Willow Point's Stone Grille re-opened last month with a new décor and new menu
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Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Grille is open until 9 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and now offers covered outdoor seating and open veranda seating, along with nearly three times the interior capacity. The kitchen, previously a small golf shack facility that was limited in what could be prepared, has grown to four times the original size. The new decor brings a previous porch space inside to expand the seating under gabled windows and a vaulted ceiling that open the views of Willow Point’s pristine lakeside golf course. Hardwood floors, leather seating and horizontal butted board interior walls reflect the unique Lake Martin casual style. The Grille menu now includes a wide variety of options, as well as some popular dishes from the old Grille. These changes at the lake offer new dining experiences in addition to many of the lake's favorite haunts, including Oskar’s, Niffer’s, Harbor Docks, Poplar Dawgs, Kowaliga, SpringHouse, Creem at the Creek, Nibbler’s Float-Thru Grill and more.
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The Landing at Parker Creek added a kitchen container to the outdoor dining venue
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Make Memories
Russell Lands On Lake Martin & Russell Marine
O F 4h
JULY d n e k e e w E K A L on
N I T R A M
JUNE 2016
LAKE 37
Smith’s Marina now open “Smitty’s” place will offer gasoline and extensive frozen yogurt bar to customers on the northwest side of the lake
The Smith family gave an old marina on the lake a whole new look
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S
mith’s Marina, owned by Debi and Billy Ray “Smitty” Smith, Memorial Day weekend officially welcomed customers and friends with a grand opening celebration. Located at the site of the old Veasey’s Marina, on the west side of Lake Martin between Kowaliga and Parker Creek, the property sat empty for several years until the Smiths purchased it in 2014. Major renovations have been going on ever since. The Smith family lives on the two floors above the marina, affording them with undoubtedly one of the best
STORY BY LACEY HOWELL & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
views on Lake Martin. Originally in the car dealership business in Mendenhall, Mississippi, the Smiths began to explore the idea of retiring on a lake after their tiny community was rocked by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. “The entire family had packed up to go to Illinois for a car auction when Katrina hit. We packed generators and went back home,” Smith reminisced. After spending a few years on an Arkansas lake near Hot Springs, the Smiths visited Lake Martin at a friend’s behest in 2009. They fell in love with the area. In those early days, the Smiths initially built a quaint A-frame chalet that is now home base for their family and friends. It was during a time of reflection on that property that they decided to live out their dream of running a small marina, something much needed in the northwestern reaches of Lake Martin. After purchasing the old Veasey’s place in 2014, the Smiths developed their concept and set to work. Billy Ray saw that the most feasible option would be to go up, adding floors to the building. They closed in the old marina, and the original concrete floors are still there today. After their experiences in Mississippi, the Smiths knew that foundation was most important, and they added the rock columns as a strong base. The marina business is a family affair. Three of the four Smith daughters (Brandi Flood, Brooke, Bailey and manager, Brittany) are here and working at the marina. Inspired by several of her favorite Gulf area restaurants, Debi felt that the marina needed a mascot, so Sam the Giraffe was spawned. The marina has a 4-foot tall stuffed giraffe and several giraffe painted on canvas. T-shirts and stuffed animals are also available. The main attraction at Smith’s Marina is the Shipwreck Sam’s frozen yogurt. Serving Nanci’s Frozen Yogurt brand, there is no high fructose corn syrup in the product, and flavors include orangesicle, tart, cheesecake, strawberry, chocolate, vanilla and birthday cake. The yogurt bar is complete with fresh fruit toppings and granola options. Ten boat slips, Coca Cola products, specialty coffees and a non-alcoholic frozen drink machine – think piña cold and strawberry kiwi – are other features of the marina. While it is not a full convenience store, the marina itself is a destination. “In May, two boats journeyed from the Dadeville side. It took about an hour, and they ate at The Landing before coming to our place for yogurt. They said it was great full day on the lake,” Debi said. “We feel honored to be able to serve God here. That’s been our motivation, to be a light on the lake. God is love. That’s all we want to do.” Memorial Day’s grand opening for Smith’s Marina was planned as a weekend full of family fun and special events at the marina. For the summer, gas operating hours will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week. The yogurt shop will be open Wednesdays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Follow Smith’s Marina on Facebook for updates on events and adjustments in hours.
JUNE 2016
LAKE 39
Together with Lake Martin Dock Company, Bõte Paddleboards are now available! Demos, lessons and rentals available with Sharon Johnston. Ask us for details.
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JUNE 2016
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Real Island Marina 334.857.2741 LAKE 41
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JUNE 2016
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www.HomeOnLakeMartin.com JUNE 2016
LAKE 43
American
Water-willow
Water-willows bloom on stems at the water's edge
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This common lake-front plant has beautiful blossoms that usually go unnoticed because they’re smaller than a quarter
NATURE OF THE LAKE BY KENNETH BOONE
JUNE 2016
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I
f you have lakefront property, there’s a good chance you have spectacular, orchid-like wildflowers in your “front yard.” But you may not know it because these exquisite blossoms are tiny, and they’re not where you’d expect to find such a showpiece. American Water-willow is a common perennial aquatic plant native to Alabama and most of the central and eastern United States. The plant’s range covers the south from Texas to Florida and extends through the central and eastern states and all the way north into Canada. Although its common name doesn’t sound all that patriotic, its scientific name sure does: Justicia americana. But in this case, Justicia americana doesn’t refer to the American court system. In fact, the flower was identified in 1753, before there was a United States of America. Instead, Justicia americana was named after the Scottish horticulturist James Justice who lived from 1698 to 1763. American Waterwillow is common and prolific on the creeks and rivers in our part of Alabama, like Hatchett and Hillabee creeks and the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers. It also grows wild around the edges of most slowermoving water in our area, including Lake Martin. American Water-willow is a small green plant that forms dense colonies in shallow water. From a distance, it looks like an average shore plant – nothing special. This plant grows to 3 feet tall and is often found on the waterline or slightly offshore in lakes, or in shallow riffles and around islands in the middle of creeks and rivers. Its “feet” are usually wet while the upper stem, leaves and blossoms are usually out of the water. Although their blossoms look delicate, American Water-willow is a tough plant that is able to survive and thrive when submerged in the washing-machine action of floodwaters that sweep Alabama’s rivers from time to time. The green stems of the water-willow are usually straight without branches and have whitish vertical lines along the stem and whitish nodes where the leaves connect the stem. Leaves are long and slender with a lighter colored vein along the center. Water-willow leaves grow up to 6 inches long, and they look a lot like a willow tree’s leaves, which makes perfect sense given this plant’s common name. A series of paired leaves grow opposite each other along the stem. The flower of the American Water-willow is its crowning glory. Although these blossoms are very small – less than an inch across – a quick, close-up look with a magnifying glass will delight orchid lovers. The give-petal flower is white, with pink, red, purple or violet colors. Blooms are found from April to October across its range, according to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower
Center. These blossoms were photographed on May 18 on Russell Pond, a man-made lake on the Lake Martin tributary, Elkahatchee Creek. The flowers all had white petals with pastel purple tips on the upper leaves, deep purple stripes on the lower petals and dark purple anthers with large white filaments. Multiple American Water-willow blossoms form on the ends of spikes and usually emerge in pairs on opposite sides of the same spike. The magnificent flowers look a whole lot like the commercially grown phalaenopsis orchids for sale in nurseries and upscale grocery stores, only the blossoms are much smaller. A large water-willow blossom measures three-quarters of an inch in diameter. A related species is also native to Alabama, Justicia ovate, which has more loosely flowered spikes. American Waterwillow reproduces seeds that look like small brown capsules, but once a plant is established, it will also The plants grow 3 feet tall send out rhizomes, which with their roots in the water allows it to form large, crowded plant colonies. This is a plant that functions like the mangroves in the southern Florida coastlines; its closely spaced stems in shallow water provide a protective “forest” for small aquatic animals, which in turn attracts predatory fish, ducks, amphibians and other larger animals in search of meals. In other words, a colony of American Water-willows can serve as an important fresh-water breeding ground for small fish and aquatic invertebrates that form the largest numbers of living animals in a local ecosystem. It’s also why, so often, the best fishing is along the shoreline of any body of water – that’s where the food is. Water-willow themselves are consumed by plant-eaters. Aquatic rodents like beaver and muskrat eat water-willow rhizomes, and deer enjoy the opportunity to get a drink of water while they munch the leaves. This plant’s flowers are cross-pollinated by a number of native bees and domesticated honeybees, as well as some butterflies, flies and wasps. Water-willow is a host plant for the caterpillars of the beautiful Hydrangea Sphinx moth. Because it forms thick colonies at the water’s edge, American Water-willow plays an important role in reducing erosion on the banks of lakes and rivers. So put on your swimsuit, pick up a magnifying glass, walk down to the shoreline and take a moment to appreciate the wild, natural beauty of the American Water-willow, a magnificent, useful and usually overlooked plant growing wild all around Lake Martin. Some information for this article came from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension website www.aquaplant.tamu.edu and the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center site www.wildflower.org.
JUNE 2016
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This tiny Lake Martin flower resembles orchids that are offered for sale at upscale groceries
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LAKE 47
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JUNE 2016
LAKE 49
A lakeside porch pops with energetic color
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Fresh New Look at Holiday Shores
STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
JUNE 2016
LAKE 51
A stone sink and modern fixtures set off the antique pulley hardware on a mirror
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The Lipscombs designed the dining area with simple, clean lines
Fine finishes showcase Birmingham couple's Lake Martin renovation
B
renda and John Lipscomb bought their third lake house two years ago – a 3,000 square foot ranch that had been empty for about three years before they rescued it. The Birmingham couple spent five months in renovation, removing walls and opening the views to beautiful Blue Creek. “We gutted it to the studs most of the way,” Brenda said, “but it really shows what you can do with an older house on the lake.” The fashion stylist for a California designer line of women’s clothing applied her talents to dressing the house for lake living and creating a personal space for her family. She started with the kitchen. Just inside the drive-side door, the couple removed two entry walls that originally defined a mudroom with pantry and laundry facilities. Adding three barn doors allowed them to enlarge the home’s small kitchen. Doors on the outer sections of the wall slide to provide access to a pantry and utility room. Though the center panel remains stationary, it lends continuity and a feeling of largeness to the feature and the room.
They also replaced the original small window above the sink with two square windows to invite the natural light into the home. White cabinets and solid surface counters, along with a few glass doors and stainless appliances, reflect the light and help to make the room look bigger. Brenda coupled the gray base of a small island with a beautiful centerpiece granite countertop. The unusual design includes dark and metallic veins through the white stone. “Unfortunately, I fell in love with the granite,” Brenda laughed. Then, builder Kenny McBride of M & M Construction opened the wall between the kitchen and living room, adding tall, narrow windows and vaulting the ceiling to open up the room, which brought the lake views inside. “We loved working with Kenny and all his local subcontractors,” Brenda said. She found driftwood tables and furniture at Lakeside Mercantile, just around the corner from the house at the intersection of County Road 34 and Highway 49, and then included personal items in the décor, such as a corner col-
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The vaulted ceiling on a porch-turned-living room reflects the light of tall lakeside windows
Fishing lures hang in a chicken wire frame in a bedroom
The owners converted a small, cramped kitchen into a spacious gathering place
An eclectic collection of art is food for fun in a child's bedroom
An accent pillow greets the Lipscombs' daughter at the lake
The house had stood empty for three years and needed extensive landscaping work
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The dock is the favorite hang-out space for family and friends at the lake
lection of paddles that had been signed by friends and guests at the lake and a framed section of chicken wire hung with old lures. Her husband crafted a vintage mirror with antique doorknobs, and Brenda framed some of her father’s hand tools to create art for a bathroom. The home includes five bedrooms and five baths, and Brenda’s sense of style shines through the fabric choices and complementary décor. One bedroom is dressed with quilted pillow shams in red, blue and distressed whites with a bead board cabinet and skis on the wall; another plays up the lake theme with wooden letters on the wall and brown, aqua and orange accents. Another room is yellow, gray and white while the large master pops with lime and white. The grandchildren’s room has a “fish” theme of green, navy and browns. Brenda, along with Birmingham designer Mandy Smith T, chose finishes that cater to life at the lake – simple, easy to clean, good quality and stylish without being trendy. Beveled white tiles and pebbled floors in bathrooms add a touch of luxury while old family pieces – like her grandmother’s chair in one of the bedrooms – lend a touch of nostalgia. They added a wall just inside a door at the end of the hall. “This was just one huge bedroom, but you walked right into it. There was no privacy,” Brenda explained. They built out a game room as well, furnishing it with an antique pinball machine and foosball table. The antique finish to the 6-inch pine tongue and groove board walls makes
this a warm, cozy space for fun. A long, horizontal window at the top of one wall allows the natural light in but retains the family’s privacy. And for seating, they utilized an old pew from a Red Ridge church. They also dedicated a hallway wall to their team of choice, Auburn, and the display includes watercolor paintings of the Toomer’s Corner building. The Lipscombs retained a large screened porch between the living room and the master bedroom as well. The 14 foot by 20 foot space offers great dining and reading venues, but the favorite spot at the lake lies over the deck and yard at the boathouse. Floyd’s Tree Service removed 31 trees from the lot, some of which had grown out of control. Adam Patterson Landscaping added inviting shrubs and beds. “The dock is where it all happens,” Brenda said. “Picnics, yoga, dancing – there’s a lot of fun occurring at the boathouse. Relationships and memories happen here.” Behind a fish crafted from old license plates on the new boathouse wall, a bracket lets the Lipscombs plug in a flat screen television on the dock. Preferred seating is inside a boat, where they can stretch out to watch fall football games. The Lipscombs arrived at Lake Martin in 2001. Their first lake residence was in the Paces Point area; their second was in Blue Creek. “We like it here,” Brenda said. “It’s, family, friends and fun in our slough.”
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Buck’s Dairy Quick
Home of Buck’s Famous Slaw
256.392.3565 1171 Tallapoosa Street, Alex City
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385 East LaFayette Street Dadeville, AL 36853 (256) 825-9244
(256) 234-6366
(256) 825-9244
(256) 839-6711
(334) 864-8854
Only Minutes from Lake Martin and Alex City!
All Private Suites with Private Bathroom & Shower
New Gym for Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy
We touch the lives of the people you love
In-House Nurse Practitioner & 40” Flat Screen TV’s
Assisted Living Short Term Rehab Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy Long Term Care
We Touch the Lives of the People You Love 58 LAKE PM16_DadeRehabHalfPg_Mag3.indd 1
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STORY BY MIA OSBORN PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE & COURTESY OF ROMAN STREET, TAB BENOIT, JONATHAN BLOOM & JAZZ FEST
Jonathan Bloom of Hinton Bloom starts the series Friday night
Tab Benoit headlines the Strand Park concert
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Wet Willie returns for the 26th Annual Alexander City Jazz Fest
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Above: Roman Street takes the stage mid-show Friday night; Left: The official Jazz Fest T-shirt by Michael O'Connell.
his year’s Jazz Fest kicks off at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 10, in Alexander City’s Strand Park with Hinton Bloom, Roman Street and headliner Tab Benoit. The next night, the party continues at 6:30 p.m. at the Lake Martin Amphitheater with Brass-A-Holics and Wet Willie. Lake Martin’s famous free music festival turns 26 this year. That’s pretty impressive for an event that was never intended to last more than one day. Jazz Fest was created in 1990 as a one-time concert to celebrate the 100th birthday of Frohsin’s Department store in downtown Alexander City. The event was so well received that Frohsin’s decided to host it again the next year. And the next. And the next. Frohsin’s closed years ago, but Jazz Fest is still going stronger than ever. Famous rockers like St. Paul and the Broken Bones, Bela Fleck and Zac Brown have graced Jazz Fest’s two stages, and attendance has swelled into the thousands, drawing music lovers from Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Auburn and beyond to converge on Lake Martin. One of Jazz Fest’s biggest appeals is that it is completely free to attend. There is no formal seating; guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets and beverages to set up on the grass. Bring your own food for a picnic dinner or sample tasty local fare from the vendors that will set up along the edges of Strand Park and the Amphitheater. Souvenirs will be available, including official 2016 Jazz Fest T-shirts featuring artwork from Florida painter Michael O’Connell. O’Connell won Jazz Fest’s annual art contest with his design of stylized jazz musicians performing on a
background of city lights. Part of the fun on Friday night comes from the Table Decoration and Food Presentation contests, which pit teams of sponsors against each other as they decorate the nearly 100 tables set up in front of the Strand Park stage. These contests are not only an excuse for some friendly competition; they are how Jazz Fest earns the funds to keep bringing music and merriment to Alexander City audiences year after year. There are four levels of table sponsorship, based on the amount donated: platinum, gold, silver and bronze. The perks of sponsorship include front-row tables for the Friday festivities and Saturday parking passes to ensure sponsor team members get close and convenient parking at the packed Lake Martin Amphitheater. Platinum sponsors receive four tables – which seat six people each – and four parking passes. Gold sponsors get three tables and parking passes, and so on. All levels of sponsorship entitle the sponsors to free publicity through local print and online media in the days leading up to the event, as well as signs and banners at Jazz Fest itself. Since more than 10,000 people regularly attend Jazz Fest over the two night series, there are plenty of eyes on sponsors’ names and plenty of opportunities for recognition. But the biggest draw of Jazz Fest is the music. On Friday night, the party starts when Hinton Bloom, one of Lake Martin’s favorite musical acts, takes the Strand Park stage at 6 p.m. Jonathan Bloom, Brian Hinton, Wade Allen and Andre Sumbry make up the group, which is sometimes known as the Jonathan Bloom Band. They describe them-
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selves as “music that harkens back to the day when you had to actually be good to be respected.” At 7:30, Hinton Bloom will be followed by jazz group Roman Street. Headed by Mobile brothers Josh and Noah Thompson, Roman Street mixes Latin, flamenco and jazz styles to create an original, captivating sound. Friday’s final act is Tab Benoit, who will take the stage at 9 p.m. A lifelong musician from Louisiana, Benoit has released nearly 20 albums. He was named B.B. King Entertainer of 2007 at the Blues Music Awards in Memphis, Tennessee. The fun continues Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. Saturday’s opener has yet to be announced, but updates can be found on the Russell Lands event calendar at www.russelllandsonlakemartin. com/events. At 8 p.m. on Saturday, the Brass-A-Holics will start their set. Describing themselves as “go-go brass funk,” the nine-piece Rest easy knowing your lake home is secure band brings their electrifying sound all the way from New no matter where you are. Orleans to delight Jazz Fest listeners. Jazz Fest 2016 will conclude at 9:30 p.m. with headliner Wet We Specialize in: Willie. Originally formed in Mobile under the name Fox, Wet Willie has been making Southern rock music since the early Intruder Detection 1970s. Led by vocalist Jimmy Hall, the group has toured the CCTV United States and the world. Access Control Wet Willie has recorded seven studio albums, four live albums Remote Monitoring and three compilations. Their 1974 hit, Keep On Smilin,’ reached Custom Home Theaters No. 10 on the Billboard Magazine singles chart. The song Home Automation and more! made an appearance in the 2011 film, Country Strong, in which Gwyneth Paltrow sings it in her role as a country music superstar. For information about table sponsorship, call 256-397-1019.
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Serving gourmet Southern cuisine with a side of Beale Street ambience, Itta Bena is bringing food back to its savory roots. Located inside Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Montgomery, you can enjoy flavorful favorites like jumbo lump crab cakes and Prime steaks, plus whatever piques your interest from our extensive fine wine list and delicious dessert menu. If you’re looking for a good evening, make a date with Itta Bena. Call (866) WIND-360 for reservations.
FIND YOUR WINNING MOMENT. 1801 Eddie L. Tullis Rd., Montgomery, AL WindCreekMontgomery.com
© 2016 Wind Creek Hospitality.
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Todd Davis and Sean Scott wave from the custom-made Garmin survey craft
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urvey crews from Garmin International spent the better part of last month here on a project that could help anglers catch fish anywhere on Lake Martin. The provider of worldwide navigation products was here to develop a high definition map of the lake bottom. The end product – a LakeVü HD Ultra map on a micro SD card – will show underwater structures, such as humps and fish habitat, to aid fishermen in identifying potentially productive sites, said Garmin Marine Survey Team Leader Paul Combs. “Our survey equipment allows us to cover a great deal of the lake bottom and collect quality, high resolution data.” Combs explained. “If we can physically get a boat into an area, we will collect data. Lake Martin is a fantastic lake, so we expect this to be a great add to our MaxDef collection of lakes and to help anglers catch more fish!
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GARMIN MAPS LAKE MARTIN IN 3D HD STORY BY BETSY ILER & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE
“The idea is to give fishermen a better view for them to pinpoint fish and show drop-offs and turns in creek channels and those kinds of features.” The project was prompted, Combs said, by Lake Martin’s growing popularity as a tournament fishing lake. Last winter, the lake hosted tournaments for the Bassmaster College Series Southern Conference, the Alabama Student Angler Bass Fishing Association and the Southern Division Alabama Bass Trail, filling hotels and restaurants across the county and keeping marine services hopping to supply the visiting teams. Television’s ESPN2 covered events here, as well, and estimates of the local economic impact from the collegiate tournament alone were near $2 million. JUNE 2016
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Passing boaters often think the sonar boom on the front of the boat is a cannon, Davis said
Combs said Garmin’s product would meet tournament anglers’ need for detailed information about the lake’s underwater structures and composition, but getting that tiny SD card in their hands is a tremendous investment of time and equipment. Two custom-made landing craft boats – each with a two-person team onboard – traversed the lake in a grid pattern, using sonar to collect information about the lake bottom, which will be used to create a map for anglers. “How much we can get done in a day depends on the depth of the water,” explained Marine Survey and Cartography Analyst Todd Davis. “The deeper the water, the better the coverage we get.” Barring bad weather or equipment breakdowns, Combs said, Garmin’s team could finish the survey of the lake in about two to three weeks. But keeping the survey boats on the water is key, said Capt. Sean Scott. “Garmin takes good care of the equipment and the team. We routinely service the boat every 100 hours, and that’s about every two weeks,” Scott said. “The boats are equipped with twin Yamaha 115 engines, and 68 LAKE
we go through about 40 gallons of gas per day.” The 8,000-pound aluminum boats are equipped to keep the crew as comfortable as possible with airconditioned cabs, microwave ovens and refrigerators onboard. The team can keep their course in as little as 2-1/2 feet of water in the specially designed craft, though Scott said they rarely take the boat shallower than 6 feet. “It’s a tough, dependable boat,” he said. Most boaters on Lake Martin are respectful of survey craft and keep their distance, Davis said. “Some places where we have worked, people will cut us off, and we have to change our course, but folks here have been pretty nice to us,” he said. “The marine police stopped to say ‘hi’ and let us know they were out here if we needed them, and the folks at River North Marina, where we’re docked, have been just great to us.” Occasionally, inquisitive people will ask what the team is surveying, Davis said. “They want to know if the sonar head is a cannon on the front of the boat,” he said.
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At rest, the post does look like the long rifle of a gun, but Davis said he assures folks that the boat is not equipped for target practice or military purposes. “Sometimes we do get called in for public service though. If there’s been a drowning or a boat lost or something like that, they might ask us to use the sonar to help with location,” Davis explained. This early in the season, weekday boat traffic has been light at Lake Martin, and the survey team has been able to stay on schedule through their 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. days. “We did see the fishing guide service out here,” Scott said. “That was pretty cool. I was watching this fishing guide on TV in the hotel before we came out one morning, and that same day, we saw that guy, David Hare, on the water.” The teams lodged at Alexander City’s Hampton Inn and ate in local restaurants. “Lots of good barbecue places here,” Scott said. In their off time, Davis and Scott took in some of the local sites, hiking the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association’s Deadening Trail for a bird’s eye view of Chimney Rock. “If I come back, I might just have to jump,” Davis said. After a two-week stint on the water, Davis will spend some time in the Kansas office processing the data he’s collected. “We’ll get that ready to go into production,” he said. “In the field, we take pictures of boat ramps and swim-
ming areas and buoys. If there’s a marked fish habitat, we take pictures there, too, and we mark structures we’ve seen during the survey. Here, we’ve seen a few sunken boats, some old house foundations, no big surprises so far.” Davis has a degree in geographic information systems, a study that combines geography with computer science, and his work takes him across the country as he collects data in two-week cycles. He lives in Olathe, Kansas. “I’ve worked lakes in Maine, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arizona, California, Arkansas, Missouri …” he said. “This is more mountainous, and there’s a lot of cover. That adds time to the survey.” Scott, a U.S. Coast Guard merchant mariner since 2007, has been with Garmin for nearly four years and lives in South Carolina. One of four boat captains for the Garmin survey team, he usually works three weeks on and one week off, but he spent just two weeks on Lake Martin, as he was looking forward to a vacation with his wife and spending time with his 3-year-old grandson. “This probably will be my first and only time on Lake Martin,” he said. “But it’s been real nice. This is a beautiful lake.” The product of the survey crews’ labors on Lake Martin will work with Garmin GPSMAP and echoMAP units, Combs said. For more information, visit www. garmin.com.
The data collected at Lake Martin will be used to develop maps like those on this Garmin echoMAP 93sv
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FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS
FABULOUS FINDS
533 1st Street, Eclectic • $549,000 UNIQUE, UNIQUE Lake Home!! Open LR, Kit, DR w/ exposed beams and ductwork making for an Urban Cabin Feel!! Freestanding gas FP, vaulted ceilings, gorgeous heart pine floors, lots of windows. Kit. features large, imported wooden island from Europe w/concrete countertops, SS appliances, gas stove. Also, ice maker and wet bar. 2 BD w/Jack n Jill BA on main level. Lower level has Master suite, 4th BD/BA and laundry. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com
134 Last Dollar Lane, Jacksons Gap • $395,000 UNTHINKABLE! Flat Lot, Sandy Beach, Incredible View, 370+- ft. of waterfront for under $400,000! Great location just minutes from Hwy. 280. 2 large BD/2BA, features wraparound deck, floating dock and gazebo on dock. Lovely sunroom on lakeside, lots of windows, exposed beams. Low maintenance brick w/vinyl eaves. Nice storage bldg. Room to grow! Waiting for your family for summer fun! Call today. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com
236 Seven Bark Trl, Jacksons Gap • $395,000 This cozy 4BD/2.5BA lake home is the answer to all your lake needs! Located in the prime location of Columbine of River Oaks, nestled in a private cove. Great floor plan; master suite on main, 3BDs on terrace level. Features include updated kit. w/ SS appliances, hardwood floors, tray ceiling in FR, stone FP w/ gas logs. Bonus room downstairs could be den/office/playroom. Great storage, new boat lift and decking, concrete drive and parking, and fenced dog run. Well maintained and move in ready! RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com
922 Beach island Trace, Dadeville • $179,000 Beauty, Warmth, Value! This 3br/2ba charming home tucked away on wooded lot in Still Waters. Open kit, living rm, dining rm, breakfast nook, w/ new hardwoods. New stainless steel stove & dishwasher, frig 2yrs old in Kit. Bonus Rm above garage. Master BR has new carpet. Relax on the screen porch or enjoy the outdoors entertaining on the deck and grilling on stone grill. Roof 2yrs old. Must See. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com
37 Timber Drive, Alexander City • $114,900 Looking for a Great Family Home...on a dead-end street filled with mature shade trees, lots of privacy and a fenced back yard? Features 3BD/2BA, spacious eat-in kit., wood cabinets and granite countertops, FR w/brick FP, formal DR, utility rm., upgraded BA, huge deck on back, 2-car garage w/plenty of storage. New roof, minutes to Hwy. 280! Call today to see. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com
Lot 40 North Willow Way, Alexander City • $395,000 A RARE FIND - lake lot in the gate guarded community of Willow Point. +/Two acre lot that is located in Phase 6B. No association dues. Privacy with nice view from cove. Don't miss out on the one and only lake lot currently available in WP! Build that perfect Lake home in this prestigious neighborhood! RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Samantha Spurlin 256-786-0650 www.samanthaspurlin.com
267 South Lands End Road, Eclectic • $378,500 Fantastic One-Level, well-maintained cabin on Lake Martin w/3BDs/4BAs, hot tub, nice yard and good summertime water. Has open Den/DR with lovely stone FP, hearth and beautiful mantle. Open sunroom on lakeside, screened porch, lots of decks, nice size BDs w/big closets and an extra large bonus rm. that could be a family/game/bunk room. Great storage under deck. Nice View and water. Call today! RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com
48 Sweetbay, Eclectic • $1,195,000 Lake views can be seen from almost every room in this impressive lake home! This spacious, one level, waterfront home has rustic elegance, charm and character, built by Kenny Hayes, prominent builder. Situated on 1.19 acres, the home features pine floors, walls and exposed beams giving it that lodge feel. Lovely open greatroom/kitchen, floor to ceiling windows and stone fireplace. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com
Elms Circle Alexander City • $179,900 House hunting blahs? Look no further...this 3BD/2.5BA lovely, brick home is located in a cul-de-sac in the attractive neighborhood of Parish Hills.Features 2-car garage, spacious FR w/tray ceiling, formal DR. Lg. Master suite w/2 walk-in closets, lg. BA w/separate vanities and jacuzzi tub.Two BDs w/Jack n Jill BA. Kit. features eat in breakfast, nice laundry. Lg. deck off back opens to neat yard. RE/MAX Around the Lake Call Amanda Scroggins 256-749-6634 www.amandascroggins.com
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FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS
FABULOUS FINDS
35 Canoe Point, Equality • $795,000 New Construction. The Shell Cracker XL is a great terrace level floor plan designed by Mitch Ginn. Home features two bedrooms and baths on both main and terrace levels. Terrace also has game room with summer kitchen. Located in the new development of Cedar Point with large lots and incredible views. This pre-sale package includes the lot, cottage, seawall, and dock. Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
Lot 16 Cedar Point, Equality • $810,000 Proposed new construction. Plans by architect Mitch Ginn. Located in the new development of Cedar Point. Large lots with incredible views. Other plans and lots available. Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
441 Windy Wood • $870,000 4 bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms Long lot with 129+/-ft of waterfront, great views, trees, natural areas & yard which provide an excellent setting to enjoy Lake Martin. Home offers plenty of room with it's open kitchen, family dining & family room which open to wide porch. There are 4 bedrooms, 4 baths & 2 rooms that can be anything you want! The terrace level den exits to a great porch & lawn on your way to the lake. Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
154 Narrow Leaf • $1,375,000 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms The finest in Lake Martin Living can be found at this Trillium home. Spacious areas inside with kitchen, living, dining and hearth room creating an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. The bedrooms are all spacious and the bonus area upstairs offers plenty of options! Outdoors enjoy the level spaces, sandy swimming area, large trees, privacy, views and spacious pier. Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
51 Pine Point Circle • $1,390,000 7 bedrooms | 7.5 Bathrooms Lake Martin / Trillium home which offers the whole package -flat lot, great waterfront, views, pool, southern style porches, trees, plenty of living spaces, great kitchen, fireplaces, master on the main level, 7 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms and so much more! This spacious home has been recently updated and is ready for you to enjoy the lakeside porch, pool, dock or lake. Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
410 Water Oak Run • $1,147,000 5 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms Casual Elegance comes to mind when you enter this Lake home - huge vaulted ceilings, large cedar beams, large windows with expansive views are some of the features that will WOW you! The chef's kitchen is the heart of this 5 bedroom, 5 bath home. Outdoors enjoy the pool, hot tub, excellent grounds, greenhouse, pond with creek flowing across the 2.3+/- private acres and the 196+/- ft of waterfront! Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
South Ridge Harbor, Stone Manor • $1,465,000 Newcastle Construction has begun construction of this beautiful home designed by David Smelcer. The natural stone and wood is artfully blended to create an eye-catching design offering an open floor plan with 2 owner’s suites on main level and 3 additional guest rooms on terrace level. Wonderful lake living areas with 2 family rooms, lake prep room and more! Russell Lands On Lake Martin Contact Rhonda or Emily 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
South Ridge Harbor, Brooke Ann • $1,325,000 Almost complete, RLH Construction has constructed an elegant lake home designed by Chuck Frusterio that is full of features for lake living. Owner’s suite and guest suite are on main level. Two great rooms, generous lake toy storage, expansive covered deck and terrace and 2-car garage completes this plan. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Call Emily or Rhonda 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
Willow Glynn, Cove Cottage • $1,197,000 Almost complete---SouthLake Homes introduces The Cove Cottage designed by Mitch Ginn. On main level, find the owner’s suite, guest bedroom, bunkroom, and bonus loft room. Expansive open kitchen-dining-living area with access to large covered porch. Lake level offers 2 guest suites, large family room, covered patio and bar for plenty of lake fun. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Contact Rhonda or Emily 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
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FROM OUR REAL ESTATE ADVERTISERS
FABULOUS FINDS
South Ridge Harbor, Breakwater • $1,575,000 Under construction from Newcastle Construction & designed by David Smelcer. This 3825 sq. ft. five bedroom, four and one half bathroom plan has generous open living-diningkitchen with owner’s suite and guest suite on main level. Lake level offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, rec room, bunk room and lake prep room. Covered porch and lake level patio provide lots of outdoor living space. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Call Emily or Rhonda 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com
443 Pine Point, Eclectic • $1,675,000 Neither words or pictures can adequately describe this Trillium home. Designed by Bill Ingram, this home is the perfect lake home in the coveted Lake Martin neighborhood. The 4 BR and 4.5 BA are complimented with a beautiful great room with exposed beams opening into the gourmet kitchen. The home is ideal for entertainment with the nice flow to the outside living areas from the kitchen. The large windows allow beautiful natural light in the home. And the lake views are stunning. Deep water and great privacy. There are too many special features to describe. Call for your appointment today. Lake Martin Realty Randall Rogers 334.707.5804 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
160 Ridge Crest, Alexander City • $3,950,000 The Ridge on Lake Martin - Attention to detail is all here in this exceptional 5BR, 5.5 BA, 8,400 +- sq. ft. lake residence that was built to enjoy its panoramic views of Lake Martin. This spacious one of a kind Timber Peg designed home features all the amenities inside and out for you to enjoy lakefront living at its finest. Private with 665 ft +- of deep waterfront, two separate dock systems and a protected swimming area for the kids. Too many features to list, so make your appointment now to see this spectacular Lake Martin home in The Ridge! Lake Martin Realty David Mitchell 256.215.3511 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
786 Windover Road, Alexander City • $725,000 Come and ENJOY this beautiful lake home that sits on a large wooded waterfront lot in desirable WINDOVER S/D. Such an easy stroll to the lake on the winding flagstone pathway! Several outdoor living area, large pier with 2 floating docks and GREAT summer water! Home offers 6BRs,Open floor plan with vaulted wooden ceilings in family/dining room. 2 Car Garage and only minutes from Russell Crossroads! Lake Martin Realty Amy Duncan 256.212.2222 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
224 Ledges Trail, 5B, Alexander City • $749,000 This beautiful, spacious townhome situated on a large point offers HUGE water views. Weekends can be spent on the water, at the pool, on the tennis courts, in the state of the art fitness center, or on the hiking trails. It's all within walking distance! Golf, Catherine's Market, Springhouse and horse trails are minutes away! Lake Martin Realty Terry Parker 334.399.3784 www.LakeMartinRealty.com
136 Oaks Point in River Oaks • $959,000 Incredible custom lake home on large point lot with 424 FT WF near Hwy 280. 4 BR, 4 BA with four car garage. Solid oak flooring and cabinets, oak panel library, home theater. Call to see today! First Realty Call Bill Whatley 256-234-5163 • 1-800-471-LAKE www.LakeMartinHomes.net
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Looking to buy, build, or remodel a home this summer? Let our local team of lenders help you!
Klay Peters
Executive Vice President NMLS #822776 kpeters@primesouthbank.com 334-283-8368
Derona Wilson
Residential Lending Officer NMLS #201585 dwilson@primesouthbank.com 334-387-1655
Brad Mason
Vice President NMLS #1470908 bmason@primesouthbank.com 334-283-6594
Locations in Tallassee, Wetumpka, and Pike Road JUNE 2016
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Lake Q&A:
Herb Winches Where did you grow up? And how did that area compare with Lake Martin? I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky, and while we had many area lakes, I don’t recall any of them that could compare to Lake Martin in massive size and beauty. Where did you go to school, and what did you study? I attended a boy’s Catholic high school in Louisville, St. Francis of DeSales, and was fortunate to earn an athletic scholarship to play college football at Jacksonville State University. That’s how I wound up making my way to the great state of Alabama. While at Jacksonville State, I studied business and marketing; however, the entire time I was there, I demonstrated a passion for sports and public speaking. I did everything from calling bingo at the local Catholic church to entertaining my teammates on the bus with my own after-game rendition of the game’s events delivered from the microphone of the Greyhound bus we were riding. It was this enthusiasm that prompted my coach, Charley Pell, to recommend me for a sports broadcasting job in Huntsville, Alabama. To my surprise, and everyone else’s I think, I was chosen for the job. How did you first hear about Lake Martin? I was pretty much a city boy living in Birmingham until one day my very dear friend Terry Henley and his wife, Lisa, who own a lovely home in Parker Creek, invited Betty and me to spend the weekend at Lake Martin. That was about 15 years ago. We immediately fell in love with Lake Martin and visited Terry and Lisa often while our daughters were at Auburn. Where on the lake is your vacation home, and why did you choose that spot? Having college-aged children is very expensive, as everyone knows, but we finally decided to bite the bullet and asked Terry to help us find a house right in Parker Creek. I call Terry the ‘Mayor of Parker Creek’ in that he owns our water system and knows everything that’s going on there. It was only a few months later that Terry told us about a house we should look at, and sure enough, it was just right for us. Without question, owning a home on Lake Martin has been the single best decision we ever made as a couple. Our home has been the scene of so many wonderful and lasting memories for our family and friends over the years. The best thing I can say about lake living is that it keeps families together.
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Name one thing that most people don’t know about you. That I still hold a record for roller-skating around the Talladega motor speedway. How long have you been married and how did you meet? When I was new to the Huntsville area, I didn’t know a lot of people. A friend suggested that I look up a fellow JSU alum who was teaching elementary school in Huntsville. Six months later, we were married. Betty and I will celebrate our 43rd anniversary in July. She has been an educator the entire time we’ve been married and is currently the assistant superintendent for instruction for the Homewood City Schools in Birmingham. Do you have children? Grandchildren? If so, where do they live? Betty and I have two daughters, Andrea and Amy. Andrea lives in Birmingham with her husband, Jason McCormack, and our little 7-year-old granddaughter, Marley, who is the next generation of the family loving growing up on Lake Martin. Amy married Ryan Wasko in December, and they live in San Francisco. They get to the lake whenever they can and have a standing ritual to meet friends at the lake for the Fourth of July. Both of our daughters consider Lake Martin their “happy place.” How does owning a restaurant compare to being a sportscaster? People sometimes wonder what sportscasting and running a restaurant have in common. Believe it or not, the people skills I learned doing TV and radio sports come in handy at The Landing. To me, it’s all about communication and hos-
JUNE 2016
Television personality Herb Winches shares his love of the lake
pitality. People come to the lake to have fun and relax. Many customers remember my days as a sportscaster for 35 years in Birmingham, so when football season approaches, it doesn’t hurt that they want to talk some SEC football. I still enjoy staying current with this knowledge and, of course, follow Auburn and Alabama closely. How did you come up with the unique design of the restaurant? The Landing has been a wonderful adventure for me, my family and my partner, Austin Singleton. As Austin and I discussed the lack of culinary destinations down on our end of the lake, I told him about my idea to build an outdoor restaurant made from shipping containers. Shipping containers have become very popular in the last few years for many unique projects. I just felt it would be the right theme for an open-air restaurant concept at a cool place, such as Lake Martin.
What can people look forward to when the Landing reopens in the spring? We have added another building on site, which will serve as our chef’s prep area. We have built a new office in the back of that building. I’m also really excited about our new refreshment center, which will house our new fountain service. We have added new railing out on our docks, as well as throughout the pavilions to make sure our guests will be safe. I’m a huge believer in creating atmosphere. I love lights. We will have more cool party lights around the property and wind sails suspended on our two open decks to provide shade cover for the guests. What’s great about going through a first season is you observe and collect data. Things are better and move more smoothly the second time around. I’m hoping to carve out a little time to jump on our pontoon boat with family and friends and go beach somewhere, turn the music up and have fun. If you can’t have fun at Lake Martin, it’s nobody’s fault but your own!
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A lake home is like folk art
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Buy what you love had the empty-nest blues I think we are solidly but fierce. What could she in a seller’s market. The do? Just give up and folclassic signs are here: low them around the counShorter days on market; try? increasing prices; decreas“Buy a lake house,” ing number of waterfront Marguerite advised. “That homes on the market. This is the best way to keep is all good news if you own in touch with your older property here; however, I children. If you have a have noticed a disturbing house on the water at trend. Investor lingo has Lake Martin, trust me, they crept to the lips of some LAKE PROPERTY will come to you, no matter agents, sellers and buyers. BY JOHN COLEY where they live.” Over the past couple of Wise advice, indeed. months, I have heard sellers say, “we will be rolling out more product Highlights the classic lesson of investment versus enjoyment. this year.” More than a few agents have I always point out that no one likes to referred to homes as “units.” A buyer or take pictures of a sunset from the back two has asked me about ROI. Yikes! How robotic. How impersonal. dock of a mutual fund. Your kids will never say, “I want to get married on the It sounds like we are selling frozen conlawn in front of your Roth IRA.” centrated orange juice in the commodiDon’t get me wrong; I am not saying ties pit for Duke and Duke. appreciation is a bad thing. We all want Did we learn nothing in the bubble all of our assets to be worth more in the years? future than they are right now. The free I think a much wiser perspective market hinges on the realization of that on buying a home or lot here at Lake fact about human nature. I also think it’s Martin is displayed by Marguerite, smart to diversify for retirement. whom I helped find a home a few Also, for the record, please hear me years ago. She called me up the other day to let me know of a conversation she say that real estate here at Lake Martin, historically, has appreciated mightily. had with a friend of hers. My own study of homes and lots that It seems her friend was bemoaning sold multiple times between 2000 and a new stage of life with a child in col2006 gained an average of 30 percent lege and one about to graduate. Both, per year. Yes. Per year. We dropped it seemed, were destined to move away about 25 percent when the bubble to other parts of the country. The mom popped, but I think we are up 15 percent from the bottom. Goodbye gray skies; hello blue. I just make the point that – maybe www.alexcitymarine.com I am old fashioned – but I think that a Lake Martin home should not be viewed as an investment first and enjoyed as Certified a vacation spot as a secondary motive. Outboard Dealer Love it first as a place, and I think everything else will work out fine.
ave you ever “invested” in art? Me, neither. I almost did once, and I am a pretty conservative investor. This was about 15 years ago, and I had a tiny sum of money. I think it was from a retirement account rollout from a job I had had. My 401k from there had been battered, and I was looking for a way to beat Wall Street. I was so disgusted with my mutual funds’ performance that I thought about buying some folk art after hearing how much money one of my friends made with the same artist. Just before pulling the trigger, I had the idea to actually consult an expert. I called my friend Lila that lives in New York. At the time, she was a professional art and jewelry appraiser for one of the huge auction houses, the real deal. I told Lila my plan, told her about the artist and asked her if I stood a good chance to make money on my investment. She said, “Forget the numbers. Do you like the artist? Would you buy it anyway and hang it on your wall?” I said, “Heck no. It looks like a drunk dog threw up on a child’s Sunday school drawing.” Lila responded, “If you don’t like the art for itself, then don’t buy it.” I took her advice and spent the money on a tank of gas or something. This same advice, I think, might be timely at Lake Martin right now.
256.215.FISH (3474)
2190 Cherokee Road , Alex City, AL
John Coley is a broker and owner of Lake Martin Voice Realty. He is also the author of the blog Lake Martin Voice at LakeMartinVoice.com.
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Summer Riding
Early season soreness, comparing the Harley boards and a wake-to-wake trick tip from Ben Watson
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and increased speed from the Venturi tunnel. e’ve had an amazing year with More speed and more rocker equals more higher than normal water levels pop. and decent temperatures. I hope The Harley Classic, which is now on its those of you who have been striving for a sixth year of production, is a really good allsolid progression this season took the winter around option. It’s fast, and it has great pop months to train. It isn’t always fun spending and holds on the landing. The body hasn’t hour after hour in the gym, but it pays off BEHIND THE BOAT changed, so you can even score an older when the season opens and you get to start model with previous years’ graphics and get riding. A good off-season gets us a little BY SAWYER DAVIS yourself a deal. The boards are pretty easy lighter, and the soreness isn’t as bad. to come by and well worth the coin. Maybe it’s just me, but even when I was younger, no See you on the water … matter what, opening day left me unbelievably sore. I had Sawyer those kinds of mornings where I couldn’t extend my arms out and put my palms together because the back and shoulSawyer Davis is a wakesurfer for Victoria skimboards ders were screaming from those opening day pulls. and grew up on Lake Martin. Nothing seems to replicate the boat vs. rider pull in the gym, so riding doesn’t have a substitute. We can just lessen the pain; that being said, it’s time to get out and do some summer riding. I was having a conversation with my young bud, Ben Watts, about the technology in wakeboards today. We were specifically talking about Harley Clifford and his pro BY BEN WATSON model, the “Remedy.” I casually asked Ben if Harley was still the best rider in the world. The wake-to-wake is the first big step you take Without even a blink of hesitation, he responded: “Yeah, from intermediate to advanced level wake boardno question, there are a few guys starting to catch up.” ing. You need to know how to do it before you can The Australian is hands down the best, mostly because do any other trick in this category. of his consistency. Ben coached with Harley on a few of the Liquid Force “Trip Across North America” tours and actuTo start the heelside wake-to-wake, edge out ally is riding Harley’s pro model. on the side where your heels are facing the wake. The Remedy is not for the average rider. It’s made espeCut out at least 20 feet; then, start what we call a cially for Harley and those who really charge the wake. Ben progressive edge. In doing this, you will edge back said that for most, the Harley Classic is a perfect board, but towards the wake slowly, increasing your speed all if you are a very advanced rider, the jump to the Remedy the way to the wake. When you reach the wake, might be what helps you get that little bit of extra somethin' hold your edge all the way to the top. It is imporsomethin' to make it happen. tant not to flatten your board off and not to try to Both models are stiff and really fast, though the Remedy jump off the wake. Instead, you need to approach is faster and designed to have more pop. It has this crazy in the seated position and stand up at the top. V-notched tail for more hold and bite since the design Keep the handle low, and your momentum will increases the surface area of the tip and tail. The Remedy is carry you across to the down side of the other set up with a triple concave bottom, the center of which is wake. slightly lower than the two sides. The three channels flow You can also add your own style to it by grabtogether and get wider out the back, what old school slalom bing your board on the nose or tail or in the front, skiers called the Venturi effect. Jimmy Redmon, the Liquid Force board designer/shaper, back or middle of your board. added more rocker, which normally would slow down the board, but he overcame that obstacle with the triple channel
Trick Tip
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Neighborhood Watch growing at the lake
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early 100 members attended the Lake Martin Home Owners & Boat Owners 2016 Annual Meeting and Breakfast on Saturday, May 14. Copper’s Grill in Stillwaters hosted the event and served the buffet breakfast. Their food and service was wonderful. We thank them. Our special thanks also go to the Alabama Power Company Employees Credit Union (APCO), which completely funded the cost of the event. APCO has been a long-time business member of HOBOs, and the greatest majority of our money is invested with them. HOBO Don Manuel of APCO attended the meeting, along BY DAVID HEINZEN with Derrick Ragland and Caitlin Brothers. Ragland spoke to the attendees during the meeting to present pertinent information and to inform us that all HOBO members are eligible to become members of the financial organization. Jesse Cunningham also presented information on the great progress that was made in our first year of partnership with the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department for the development of Neighborhood Watch chapters around the lake. The HOBOs have facilitated, and the Tallapoosa County Sheriff’s Department has trained, 11 Neighborhood Watch groups since the fall of 2015. Each of the neighborhoods met with Sheriff Abbett, Chief Deputy McMichael and Chief Investigator Hogue for their organizational meetings, held in the classrooms of their servicing volunteer fire departments. Following the initial meetings, each neighborhood met separately to organize their own watch groups in the manner they chose for the groups to function. Participation and attendance at the meetings has been outstanding, especially since word spread about the program and the Neighborhood Watch road signs, supplied by the Sheriff’s Department, began to appear in the active areas. Communication is the key to a successful Neighborhood Watch program, and efforts are being completed to create an alert/informational email contact system between the Sheriff’s Department and each neighborhood so that immediate communications would be possible, both from the Sheriff’s office and from each neighborhood. We would like to express our appreciation to Sheriff Jimmy Abbett, Chief Deputy David McMichael and Lt. Bill Hogue for taking time away from their families in the evenings to meet with the neighborhoods. The program will continue this fall, as every effort will be made to reach more of our Lake Martin neighborhoods. If you would like to help organize a Neighborhood Watch in your area, please contact Jesse Cunningham at jesse@lakemartin.org. Meeting attendees and proxy ballots unanimously elected a new HOBO president, Curt Bogle. Other open positions on the HOBOs Board of Directors were filled by acclimation. Treasurer Mike Dollar, Secretary Judy Heinzen and directors Debbie Nigh, Jesse Cunningham and Dave Heinzen are joined by new directors Marsha Hunt, Don Westbrook and Gene Cody. All of the above will meet soon with sitting directors Jim Anckersen, Carey Mullican, Jim Robinson and Jim Clinton. During the closing Q&A segment, members asked for and received an update on the Water Wars, and some expressed their concerns for the potential impact on lake water quality if the proposed hotel is built at Wind Creek State Park. Dave Henizen is outgoing president of the Lake Martin Home Owners and Boat Owners Association. 80 LAKE
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they are relating more to the bottom. The key to the Shaky Head rig is that the head sits on the bottom while the tail of the worm is suspended. The least little movement of the rod tip causes the tail of the worm to pulse and trigger a strike from an otherwise inactive fish. Allow the bait to sink to the bottom and shake and hop the worm, using more of a wrist action to work the bait. Pause the bait periodically and keep a close eye on your line. Often the strike will feel like a small tick or maybe your line will just begin to move off slowly. BIG CATCHES Take up the slack and use a long deliberate BY GREG VINSON hookset. Somewhere along the way I should have mentioned setting the drag because now is not the time. I Get there early! always check the drag on my spinning reel at the beginning Believe me, it’s worth losing a little shut-eye to hit the water just before daybreak and be sitting on your favorite spot of the day and even periodically during the day to make sure it’s tight enough to supply a good hookset but light enough before the sun comes up. The topwater bite can be explosive to allow the fish to make strong surges on light line and not during that short period between daybreak and sun-up, and break off or create slack in the line. it’s the best time of day to catch a big fish. The versatility of the Shaky Head, and the fact that it proFocus on main-river or main-creek points near channel duces fish in the toughest conditions, make it the go-to rig bends. Bass often move up from their deeper staging areas when I can’t catch them any other way. overnight to take advantage of the cooler surface water and to prowl for the day’s entrées. The bass are active at this time of day, and you should be, too, so suck down an extra cup of Go late, real late. coffee and be ready to fire some topwater baits at first light. So let’s say you’re not really a morning person or you just A Pop-R is probably one of the best baits this time of year partied a little too hard the night before. There’s a pattern for because it imitates a bream popping the surface. The bass still you, too. Fish feed heavily at night in the summertime, and want revenge on those pesky bream that have been robbing there’s no better location to catch fish than around a pier light. their nests the past few weeks, and they absolutely smash Let me preface the rest of this section by saying we should popping baits. be extremely courteous when fishing around pier lights and Another reason I think Pop-Rs work well at this time of realize that the owners are gracious enough to leave them on. year is that the bass are schooling on baitfish, as they continue If you own a lake home and you leave your pier light on for to build body mass that they lost during the spawn. Big Popothers to fish, as well as yourself, a thousand blessings for Rs can imitate the sound of schooling fish better than any you, most kind and generous one! other topwater, and you can actually call fish to the surface The entire food chain can be observed beneath a pier light with quick, aggressive pops and between pauses of two to at night. Plankton, at the base of the food chain, are attracted three seconds. to the light. Baitfish, such as shad and black tail shiners (spotObviously, other topwaters, such as a Sammy, Spook or tails), feed on the plankton. And ultimately, predator species, Crazy Shad will work well, too. And always keep a soft plaslike bass, stripe, white bass and crappie, stalk the unsuspecttic jerkbait or wacky rig Netbait Salt Lick handy to follow up ing shad and spot-tails from the dark edge of the light’s halo. short strikes or to work areas just after the sun comes up. Generally, the later it gets, the better the fishing because more and more fish will concentrate around the light. Again, the Shaky Head is probably the most dependable Get out the Shaky Head and try the new bait for catching fish around pier lights. I use the same colors Netbait Contour Worm. I would normally use during the day, but I might also try June Once the sun rises and the surface gets churned from boat Bug or Red Bug; many times, darker colors are more productraffic, break out your spinning rod and rig it with a 1/8-ounce tive at night. A small crankbait in a shad pattern can produce Shaky Head and neutral-colored worm. I always add a little as well. A light rod rigged with a small crappie grub in charchartreuse J J’s Magic dye to the tail of the worm. I prefer to treuse or smoke color is always a good bait to catch crappie, use it with 8-pound Seaguar Inviz-X fluorocarbon because small bass and white bass around pier lights if you’re just of the low stretch for sensitivity and solid hooksets in deep looking for some action. water. Also, fluorocarbon lasts longer than monofilament on the spool, meaning less line changes. This June, get out and catch a few fish in between boating Begin by focusing on the same types of areas where you trips and enjoy all that Lake Martin has to offer in the sumcaught the topwater fish earlier in the morning but move mertime. Be safe this summer and have a great time sharing deeper. As the sun rises, light penetrates the water more, and the lake with others, whether you’re fishing or boating. the fish will often move to deeper water or to some type of cover, like a floating dock or a manmade brush pile, using it Greg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on the as a comfort zone and an ambush point. The Shaky Head is a Bassmaster Elite Series and PAA tours. He lives in Wetumpka great bait for this situation because the fish are less active and and grew up fishing on Lake Martin. s I began writing this column, I couldn’t help the urge to complain about the boat traffic on the water every Memorial Day. It turns my sea of tranquility into an angry ocean. But here’s the mistake: I used the term “my,” as if I own the lake or something. The fact is, Lake Martin is one of the cleanest bodies of water in Alabama, and we are blessed to have such an awesome fishery and playground available to all the public, right here in our backyard. For folks like me who are still dead-set on catching a few fish in the summer, here are some strategy hints that will help you put them in the boat during June, despite the traffic.
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Tommy Barnes and Steve Nowlin of Opelika had great luck catching a 3-pound Alabama bass on Lake Martin during some late afternoon fishing
Avoid the crowds for better bassin' this summer JUNE 2016
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The Advantageous Av I
against diseases, such as heart disease and f avocados are not a staple in your house, cancer. These antioxidants provide cholesterolplease think twice. Avocados are a super tasty, lowering plant sterols, which help reduce LDL super versatile, super food. Although an avo(bad) cholesterol levels. The antioxidant glutathicado is not sweet, you may be surprised to learn one protects the body against cancer, and lutein that it is regarded as a member of the fruit famprotects vision. ily, more specifically the subtropical fruit family. Avocados also provide high amounts of Like tomatoes, they are considered berries. Vitamin E, folate, potassium and magnesium. Avocados have been cultivated since 6000 Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect B.C. Beginning in the first century, avocacells against damage and ultimately protects dos were grown in large quantities in Central the body against diseases. Folate is a B Vitamin America. It was one of the first three staple that is important in cell growth and metabolism. crops, along with corn and beans. All three of HEALTHY LIVING Folate is what we get naturally from food. Folic these crops provided a healthy diet consisting of BY JULIE HUDSON acid is the supplement or manmade version that starch, protein and fat. sometimes is added to food. Both of these proAs late as the 17th century, avocados vide the same effect. remained small, with large seeds, and they provided very Potassium is a mineral that is critical to life. It helps the little flesh. As time went by, generations of farmers evolved kidneys, heart and other organs to function normally. A avocados into a tastier fruit that was larger in size. Our modhealthy diet usually provides enough potassium. Magnesium ern versions mostly come from California and continue to have large seeds; however, the big difference is that the seeds is a mineral that is also crucial to life. Magnesium regulates blood pressure, helps to keep bones strong and keeps hearts are engulfed by more edible flesh. pumping in a normal rhythm. A lot of adults do not get The process of evolving the avocado from the wild verenough magnesium. sion to our modern type not only improved the flavor and Avocados supply a significant amount of fiber, particularly increased the amount of edible flesh, but also retained all the soluble fiber. This type of fiber attracts water and turns into original nutrients like that of its wild counterpart. a gel-like consistency. Soluble fiber slows digestion and may Avocados are known as a nutrient dense superfood. help reduce the risk of heart disease. Soluble fiber is found in Studies have shown that this fruit can be extremely benefioat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, fruits and vegetables. Half cial to an already established healthy diet. The most current of a medium avocado delivers 6 grams of soluble fiber, which research indicates that including avocados in your diet can is more than a bowl of oatmeal. help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels. Avocados are very The biggest deterrent to eating avocados is most likely the high in antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that prevent amount of fat they provide. It is especially important to know damage to the body’s cells. Antioxidants that the fat in an avocado is in the form of monounsaturated protect us fats. This is the “good” fat that olive oil provides. These good fats help aid the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients and help improve cholesterol levels, which reduce the risk for heart disease. Monounsaturated fats benefit insulin levels and help control blood sugar. All varieties of avocado should not be treated equally. The Hass avocado, the black bumpy skinned variety in our stores, delivers two to four times the antioxidant power of other store varieties. Learning to select an avocado is important. An avocado is ready to eat when the top is soft. The seed should be imbedded into the flesh inside. If the fruit is as soft in the middle as it is on top and you can hear the seed rattling inside, the fruit is over ripe. Look for dents in the fruit. These can indicate a black, mushy inside. The skin of the Hass avocado should be black when it is ripe and green when it is unripe. Unripe avocados can be ripened within a few days at room temperature on the kitchen counter or in a paper bag. If you are using the paper bag trick, place the fruit in the bag, close the bag and store at room temperature for two to three days until 84 LAKE JUNE 2016
vocado the stem begins to soften. Whole, ripened avocados can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days without losing their nutritional value. Cut avocados do not store well; due to oxidizing of the flesh, they brown rapidly. There are a few tricks that may work to keep leftover avocados from turning brown. If you are only using half the fruit, keep the seed in the unused portion, then sprinkle the unused half with lemon or lime juice and wrap very tightly with plastic wrap. You can also store an unused avocado half in a container of onions to prevent browning. Roughly chop an onion and put the onion pieces in a container. Place the avocado, skin side down, on the onions. Cover with a lid and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. The avocado will have only a slight hint of onion flavor. Avocados are tasty and versatile. The obvious uses of this superfood are in guacamole, sliced on a hot or cold sandwich or burger, inside a taco or on a salad. Less obvious uses are eating the avocado by itself, stuffing an avocado half with chicken or tuna or crab salad and sprinkling with lemon or lime juice. Another less obvious use may be a breakfast sandwich, starting with a piece of whole grain toast topped with avocado slices that have been mashed into a spread and topped with a tomato slice and an egg. You could add arugula to the sandwich and substitute the egg with another meat to serve it for lunch. The least obvious use for an avocado, but nonetheless delicious, is preparing chicken salad with mashed avocado in place of mayonnaise. Whatever you do with it, try to incorporate this superfood into a healthy diet, so you can reap the many benefits it offers. Julie Hudson is a dietician at the Lake Martin Wellness Center in Dadeville.
Comprehensive Cardiac Care Close to Home
Kevin Sublett, MD, and the Cardiology of Central Alabama clinic are now part of UAB Medicine, bringing the latest in cardiac treatments and technology to Alexander City and surrounding communities. Together we have formed the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic of Central Alabama, providing the world-class care you have come to know from UAB close to home. We are conveniently located in the Russell Medical Center. Dr. Sublett and his staff are committed to helping patients enjoy full and active lifestyles, offering: • Full spectrum of cardiovascular care • Care by physician, board certified in interventional cardiology • Latest in 4-D and 2-D ultrasound and nuclear medicine imaging • Diagnosis and treatment of cardiac rhythm disorders Call us today to schedule an appointment!
3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 234-2644 uabmedicine.org/heartcentralAL
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Oakview Farms Strawberry Salad with Asher Blue Cheese and Lemon Vinaigrette
Lemon Vinaigrette
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.
1/4 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup champagne vinegar 1 teaspoon honey 3/4 teaspoon mustard powder 1 tablespoon minced shallot 1/2 teaspoon minced Arbol chili 1/2 teaspoon minced fresh thyme 1 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt In a medium mixing bowl combine first seven ingredients and allow to macerate for 30 minutes. While constantly whisking, drizzle in JUNE 2016
olive oil to form a tight emulsion; once all the oil has been incorporated taste for seasoning. Set to the side until ready to dress the lettuce. Remove the core from 2 heads of Oakview farms lettuce; tear into individual leaves and place into large salad bowl. Crumble 2 tablespoons Asher blue cheese and remove the tops from eight fresh strawberries; slice strawberries thin. Drizzle lettuce with 2 tablespoons of vinaigrette around the edge of the bowl; then, gently toss. Top with sliced strawberries and blue cheese. Serve with extra vinaigrette on the side. LAKE 87
What
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ne of the questions most asked by wine shoppers is, “What does it taste like?” For red wine, that is usually followed by objections to dryness or bitterness. With white wines, there is often a comparison to Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, the two most popular white wines. What do Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay taste like? If you did a blind tasting – that is, a tasting where the identity of the wine has been concealed from the tasters – you would sense that one is crisp, light and dry while the other would be rich, creamy and a bit heavier on the palate. But how do they taste; what are the dominant flavors, and which is which? There’s no trickery here. The Pinot Grigio should be light and tangy. Domestic Chardonnays are often identified as buttery and oaky with a big mouth feel. How they taste can be generalized to suggest scents and flavors that are common to most white wine varieties. The short list would include floral, citrus and lighter-fleshed fruit, apple, pear, peach and butter. Getting any more specific depends on many factors; one being terrior, the microclimate of soil, temperature, rainfall and so on, where the grapes were grown. A domestic Chardonnay may be quite different in taste compared to a French Chardonnay, aka a FROM THE CELLAR white Burgundy. A cool climate Chardonnay, say Carneros, BY HENRY FOY might have a more noticeable acidity with hints of apple and pear than one from a warmer climate, say Central Coast, which might have tropical fruit notes and a hint of fig. Another important element is how each of us interprets the aromas and flavors that we detect. Our senses of smell and taste are the result of experience and memory, as well as our ability to define and communicate the stimuli we have received. I may taste jalapeño in a grassy Sauvignon Blanc while someone else says they get a strong hint of grapefruit. We’re both right. What makes all this happen, and the reason that wine is said to smell and taste like almost everything except grapes, is the fermentation process. During fermentation, as the yeast eats the grapes’ natural sugars, thousands of new chemical compounds are created. Many of these compounds have a molecular structure that is similar to scents and flavors that we are able to recognize. It is the acidity in white wines that makes them a refreshing choice for the summer. Plus, we are more inclined to chill our whites, and over the next few weeks that will be extremely important. The good news is that we’re not limited to just Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio. In addition to the Rieslings, Sauvignon Blancs and Moscatos, here are a few more that are worth trying. Chenin Blanc is a French white-wine grape with an intense floral aroma and high acidity. Wines from cooler regions will be delicate with hints of melon. Tasting 88 LAKE
notes on the 2014 L’Ecole Chenin Blanc ($16) boast of a wine that is vibrant with aromas of pink grapefruit, passion fruit and orange blossom. With flavors of lychee, apple and tangerine, it has a crisp minerally finish in the style of a Vouvray. Vouvray is the short name for the Chenin Blanc-based wines from the Vouvray Appellation of France’s Loire Region. They can be very sweet to very dry with complex, honeyed flavors. The 2014 Michel Picard Vouvray ($13) is also lower in alcohol at 11.5 percent. Pinot Blanc was once believed related to Chardonnay, and much of the Pinot Blanc growing in Australia is Chardonnay. Similar to a Chardonnay, though not as complex, it is a good alternative to Chardonnay. Noted for a fresh, appley aroma with some hint of spice, the Pinto Blanc grapes do well in cooler regions of the Alsace region of Northern France,
JUNE 2016
does it taste like?
being known for their Pinot Blanc wines. Witness Tree ($17) and Four Graces ($19) are both from Oregon’s Willamette Valley, both crisp and clean, and they go well with food or on their own. A few other notable whites for relaxing on the deck or dock include L’Ecole 2014 Semillon, Zocker 2014 Edna Valley Gruner Veltliner, Fetzer Gewurztraminer and Domaine Serge Laporte Sancerre. Semillon is most often used as a blending grape but as a single varietal has many qualities in common with the other wines featured here and typically low acidity. Apple and melon are prominent with hints of orange blossom, apricot and honeysuckle. Gruner Veltliner is an Austrian native that, with crisp acidity and light to medium body, has been a favorite over the years.
Gewurztraminer is now most widely planted in Alsace (France), Austria and Germany but is native to Italy, where it is also planted. Gewurtz is the German word for spiced; these wines are crisp with a hint of spice and vinified from very sweet to dry. Sancerre, a small appellation just southwest of Paris, is famous for the crisp, acidic wines produced from Sauvignon Blanc with characteristics of herb and gooseberry. Same grape, thousands of miles apart and nothing like a New Zealand Sauv Blanc. Henry Foy is the owner of Emporium Wine, Café 128, Gallery 128 and Lake Martin’s only walk-in cigar humidor located in downtown Alexander City at 128 Calhoun Street. He can be reached at 256.212.WINE, on Instagram, Facebook and at emporium128@bellsouth. net.
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Fairway Bunkers
Pro Tips From Lee Williams Fairway bunker shots can be one of the most difficult shots in golf. Your contact has to be very precise, and a confident swing is crucial to hitting the ball solid. Here are some tips for getting out of a bunker and back into fair play. 1. The first thing I recommend for most amateurs trying to get out of fairway bunkers is to choke up on the club about 2 inches. By this, I mean to grip down on it toward the base of the grip. 2. Play the ball forward of center in your stance, promoting a more out-to-in or cut shot. This makes the bottom of your swing more precise, leading to solid contact. Most golfers try to move the ball back in their stance in fairway bunkers. This is the opposite of what you should do from a typical fairway bunker shot. By moving the ball back in your stance, you promote a more in-to-out swing path, increasing your chances of a fat or thin shot. Any time the club travels too much in-to-out, you increase the length of the bottom of your swing, making contact inconsistent. 3. Be aggressive! Indecisiveness kills in golf, as it does in anything else in life. Don’t be scared to swing hard out of the sand. You have a greater chance at making solid contact, even if you disregard points 1 and 2, just by swinging hard. I believe these simple tips will help you make solid contact more often out of fairway bunkers. As my college golf coach used to say, “The easiest way to hit a difficult shot is to not be where you have to hit one.” Good Luck! Lee Williams, a professional golfer on the PGA Tour, grew up playing at Willow Point Country Club. As an amateur, Williams was a member of the 2003 and 2005 Walker Cup teams, as well as the 2004 World Amateur Team. He is sponsored by Russell Lands, King Honda, Nowlin and Associates, P.F. Chang's, Tempus Jet, Hyatt, Adams Golf, Russell Athletic, Titleist, Ameritas Financial Corp. and Southwest Airlines. JUNE 2016
Moving the Marker STORY & PHOTO BY BETSY ILER
Playing the front nine one Sunday afternoon last month with a foursome that included Russell Lands On Lake Martin Vice President Roger Holliday, my ball came to rest about 3 feet from the No. 8 hole. When the next player’s ball landed 18 inches behind mine, my ball was directly in the line of his putt. Marking and removing the ball would not have sufficiently remedied the potential impediment, as the heads-up marker – still in line with the other player’s lie – would have interfered with his shot. New to the game, I didn’t know how to repair the situation in accordance with the rules, so Holliday instructed me to measure the clubhead length of my putter and replace the marker so play could continue. But he also suggested turning the marker over – tails up – as a reminder that the marker had been moved. “If you forget to put the ball back in its original position, it’s a two-stroke penalty,” he explained. According to USGA Rule 20-1, a ball-marker can be moved one or more clubhead-lengths to one side if it interferes with the play, stance or stroke of another player; however, it is imperative that the ball be replaced in its original position before it is played. If the player fails to correctly replace the ball and plays it from the wrong position, he incurs a penalty of two strokes or, in match play, loses the hole. See Rule 20-7. As my lie was closest to the hole – and not all of the players were yet on the green – all three of the other players would likely hit before my next stroke. The ball-marker placed with the odd side up would call my attention to the repositioning of the marker and help to prevent my incurring the penalty. A marker that would interfere with another player's putt can be moved one or more dlubheads to the side but no closer to the hole
LAKE 91
Legend
63
21
22
280
23
To Sylacauga
20
Public Boat Ramps
Alexander City
16
Churches 9
Camp ASCCA
Flint Hill Church
Camps & Parks 280
Power lines U.S. Highways
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
128
Russell Farms Baptist Church 63
D.A.R.E. Park Landing
Friendship Church
11
New Hope Church
Liberty Church 14
20
Willow Point
24
34
5
7
Equality
Kowaliga Boat Landing
55
4
Seman
Camp Kiwanis
63 Camp Alamisco
8 19 The Ridge
1 9
Church in The Pines
22
2
The Amp Ko
wa
15 10
lig
aB
ay
80
9
Central
90
Union
ELMORE COUNTY Union Church
Red Hill 63
229
Eclectic
Tallassee
17 Kent
92 LAKE
Union Landing
Children’s Harbor
Trillium
JUNE 2016
Timbergut Landing
Lake Martin Alabama
Horseshoe Bend National Park
Jaybird Landing
Marinas 11. Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
TALLAPOOSA COUNTY
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
42. Real Island Marina 334-857-2741 270 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026
Jacksons Gap
53. Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550 8300 Parker Creek Marina Rd, Equality, AL 36026
280
62. Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Highway 49 South, Dadeville, AL 36853 Bethel Church
18
Dadeville
280
Camp Hill
86. Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070 17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
57
Smith Landing Pleasant Ridge Church
9 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
12 13
10 Harbor Docks Restaurant at Anchor Bay Marina 334-639-4723 2001 Cataway Island Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024
Business & Shopping
Lake Martin Baptist Church 49 Church of the Living Waters
Restaurants 76. SpringHouse 256-215-7080 12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010
11 Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075 970 Hwy. 63 South, Alex City, AL 35010
Stillwaters
12 Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd 34, Dadeville, AL 36853
6
14 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt @ Smith's Marina 256-444-8793 1590 Pine Point Road, Alex City, AL 35010 5. Lake Martin Mini Mall 15 334.857.3900 7995 Kowaliga Rd, Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 16 256-234-2567 1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010 4. Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 17 334-541-2132 1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 4. Russell Building Supply 18 256-825-4256 350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 4. The Stables at Russell Crossroads 19 256-794-1333 111 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 4. Dark Insurance 20 256-234-5026 410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 21. McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583 1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010 22. Kowaliga Whole Health Pet Care & Resort 334-857-1816 8610 Kowaliga Road, Eclectic, AL 36024
Hotels & Lodging
23 2 Cherokee Bend Bed & Breakfast 877-760-7854 5833 Highway 22 East, Alex City 35010
Advertise your business on our Lake Martin Region Map for as little as $25. Contact us at 256-234-4281 or marketing@alexcityoutlook.com for more information.
13 EastLake Coffee @ Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd 34, Dadeville, AL 36853
Walnut Hill 50 50
49
Reeltown
JUNE 2016
LAKE 93
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 Little Black Dress Longleaf Antiques Mark King's Furniture Mistletoe Bough Bed & Breakfast Queen’s Attic Regions Bank Ridge - Clubhouse Ridge - Marina River North Marina Riverbend Store Russell Home Décor Russell Medical Center Russell Lands Russell Retail Store Satterfield, Inc Senior Nutrition~50+ Center Sho’ Nuff Restaurant Springhouse Restaurant T.C. Russell Airport Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc The Medicine Shoppe
The Sure Shot USAmeribank Warren's Appliance Parts Willow Point Country Club Wind Creek - entrance Wind Creek - store Winn Dixie 280 BP 280 Exxon
DADEVILLE American Motorsports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina Dadeville Wellness Center Foodland 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 Russell Building Supply Shell Station Sigger’s Stillwaters Country Club Store 34 USAmeribank
EQUALITY
ECLECTIC
WALNUT HILL
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 Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star
KELLYTON
Five Star Plantation
RED HILL Citgo
TALLASSEE Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce The Tallassee Tribune Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery
WETUMPKA
The Wetumpka Herald A limited number of magazines are available at these locations. To start your subscription, call David Kendrick at 256-234-4281.
Lake Martin Business and Service Directory
SEE ME FOR INSURANCE
Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com
H
OLMAN
F
LOOR
C
OMPANY
“WE’RE 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
94 LAKE
JUNE 2016
Lake Martin Business and Service Directory Handrails • Guardrails Welded Fence • Custom Art Stairs • Gates Stainless Steel Cable Railing I-Beams • Steel Posts • Stairs On-Site Welding/Cutting
dB
Lawn Care Darrell Brooks, Owner • Mowing • Edging • Weed Eating • Shrubs • Pressure Washing • Blowing
334-332-3435
256.267.0518
Since 2008
COACH KRAFT
Professional!
residential. commercial. interior. exterior.
Trey Callegan
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
334-651-0033AL/706-225-8070 GA
A Division of Goldwater Bank, N.A.
columbus-auburn.certapro.com
248 Inverness Ctr Dr, Birmingham AL
205-995-7283
1550OpelikaRoadSuite6Box294,Auburn,AL36830
Call TODAY for quick Pre-approval NMLS #47862 Corporate NMLS #452955
Performance! Call me for your FREE home sellers kit.
Paige Patterson
205-616-8046
www.paigepatterson.com
LAKE
■
Area Manager Call TODAY for quick Pre-approval!
Relax. Enjoy. Lake Martin. Call to order your subscription 256-234-4281
MAGAZINE
JUNE 2016
LAKE 95
Our Advertisers n To Join, Call 256.234.4281 A&M Plumbing....................................................... 80 Advanced Cardiovascular.................................... 78 Advanced Heating & Air...................................... 64 Alabama Power...................................................... 13 Alex City Taxi & Shuttle...................................... 94 Amanda Scroggins, RE/MAX Around the Lake...48-49 Atkinson Home..................................................... 95 Becky Haynie, Lake Martin Realty..................... 43 Blue Creek Iron Works....................................... 95 Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation......................... 8 Buck's Dairy Quick............................................... 57 C&T Electric.......................................................... 64 Central Alabama Community College.............86 CertaPro Painters................................................. 95 City of Wetumpka................................................. 42 Coach Kraft Upholstery...................................... 95 Crew Lending......................................................... 95 Custom Docks....................................................... 24 Damon Story, Cedar Point................................. 59 DAVCO Development......................................... 94 DB Lawn Care....................................................... 95 Designs by Trish....................................................... 5 Docks Unlimited..................................................... 5 First Baptist Church Alexander City.................. 8 First Realty............................................................... 6 George Hardy D.M.D........................................... 64 Hackneyville Volunteer Fire Department........24
Harbor Pointe Marina.......................................... 65 Henderson and Coker......................................... 62 Hilltop Landscaping............................................... 30 Holley’s Home Furnishings...............................100 Holman Floor......................................................... 94 Interscapes.............................................................. 62 Jackson Thornton.................................................. 30 James & Co............................................................. 78 Kona Ice.................................................................. 64 Kowaliga Whole Health....................................... 95 Lake Martin Building Supply................................. 8 Lake Martin Community Hospital..................... 23 Lake Martin Dock................................................. 19 Lake Martin Mini Mall.......................................... 40 Lakeside Marina..................................................... 78 Mark King's Furniture.......................................... 22 Mitchell's Upholstery............................................. 8 Movie Rack............................................................. 57 Music Depot........................................................... 94 National Village...................................................... 35 Noel Boone............................................................ 94 OB-GYN Associates of Montgomery.............. 16 Paige Patterson, Lake Martin Voice Realty......95 Painting By Allen.................................................... 94 Playhouse Cinemas............................................... 57 Prime Management............................................... 58 Prime South Bank................................................. 73
Rambo Marine....................................................... 56 Renaissance Electronics......................................... 8 Russell Lands.......................................17, 36-37, 97 Russell Marine........................................................ 41 Russell Medical Center.......................................... 2 Satterfield.................................................................. 6 Security Pest Control............................................ 8 Seibel's..................................................................... 77 Shorelock Storage Solutions.............................. 95 Singleton Marine.................................................... 81 SportzBlitz.............................................................. 90 State Farm Insurance/ Harold Cochran..........94 State Farm Insurance/ Karen Channell..........95 Tallassee Community Hospital........................... 96 Temple Medical Center....................................... 64 TNT Stone............................................................. 80 TowBoatU.S.............................................................. 5 Troy Cable................................................................. 6 UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic............................. 85 Vision Landscapes Inc.......................................... 16 Walmart.................................................................. 95 Ware Jewelers....................................................... 99 Wedowee Marine................................................. 31 Who's Diner.......................................................... 57 Wind Creek Casino............................................. 63 Williams Plumbing Heating & Air........................ 8 WSC Distinctive Builders, LLC......................... 57
The Swing Bed Program AT COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
805 Friendship Road Tallassee, AL 36078 (334) 283-6541 www.chal.org
Community Skilled Care and Rehab Helping Patients Transition from Hospital to Home When Rehabilitative Care is Needed.
Why Choose Community Skilled Care and Rehab?
• Generalized weakness • IV medication therapy • Recovery following an accident • Rehabilitation following surgery, stroke, or heart attack. • Rehabilitation following acute care inpatient hospital stay
• Low patient to nurse ratio • 24-hour physician in-house • Dietary, nutritional, and social services • Team approach to recovery & discharge • Coordinated & planned activities program • Nursing care provided by experienced RNs and LPNs • Physical, occupational, respiratory, and speech therapy
For more information call: (334) 283-3857 or E-mail: swingbed@chal.org
Community Skilled Care and Rehab A division of
Community Hospital 96 LAKE
JUNE 2016
THE LAKE IS THE PART OF US THAT
IS ALWAYS YOUNG.
Wild and full of wonder, it’s the place where we are still awed by sunrises and sunsets.
That’s the power of the lake.
PRESENTING THE NEWEST COLLECTION OF LAKE HOMESITES RUSSELLLANDSONLAKEMARTIN.COM | 256.215.7011 | LAKE MARTI N, ALABAMA JUNE 2016 LAKE
97
98 LAKE
JUNE 2016
Bob Lanford and his 5-year-old bird dog Idgie take in an evening of fishing near Doctor's Island on Lake Martin.
"Three fourths of the Earth's surface is water, and one fourth is land. It is quite clear that the good Lord intended us to spend triple the amount of time fishing as taking care of the lawn." ~ Chuck Clark
Photo by Kenneth Boone
Parting Shot
AQUARACER WITH DIAMONDS
Maria Sharapova never stops challenging herself. Like TAG Heuer, she keeps pushing her limits and never cracks under pressure.
111 South College Street • Auburn, AL • 334.821.7375 The Shoppes at EastChase • Montgomery, AL • 334.386.9273 Eastern Shore Centre • Spanish Fort, AL • 251.338.9273 www.warejewelers.com
JUNE 2016
LAKE 99
CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY
SALE
Free Crypton Performance Fabric Upgrades Enjoy FREEEnjoy Crypton Performance Fabric upgrades as well as 800 other fabric upgrades July All 5th Custom on all custom Rowe Furniture Seating and and Beds. Until July until 5th On Rowe Furniture Seating Beds
CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY
SALE
Enjoy Free Crypton Performance Fabric Upgrades Until July 5th On All Custom Rowe Furniture Seating and Beds
®
®
®
100 LAKE
256.234.4141 Alexander City
JUNE 2016
334.279.3101 Montgomery