Lake Martin Living September 2017

Smithsonian exhibit visits Alexander City Dadeville hosts Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby

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From the Editor’s Desk

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eadline time is pretty heart pounding in the TPI magazine office. It’s exciting to see the articles we’ve been working on take shape as we drop in photos, type and discard headlines and make adjustments for late inspirations. Then, there’s the proofing, and no matter how much we try to avoid it, it seems there’s always one last thing we need to scramble after to complete the issue. This month, that last thing was a photo of Dr. George Hardy in his dental office in Alexander City. We had plenty of pictures of him in movie roles – including the cover shot from Texas Cotton, his latest project – but the story on page 28 about his dual careers lacked a photo of Hardy as a real dentist. Fortunately, we caught him with a patient in the chair just before he finished up and left the office for the day. And Mr. Andrew Webb was kind enough to accommodate us in the chair for the photo. We also made a last day change to make room for Shane Harris’ invitation on page 14 to the Alabama Naturalist Course. Last year’s class filled up quickly and won rave reviews from participants, so the County Extension Office will offer the certification program again. Sign up early, as the class begins Oct. 5. The Table of Contents, of course, is always the last page we finalize. This month, we struggled with what picture to use but not because we couldn’t find one; on the contrary, the problem was choosing which one to use from the hundreds of shots taken at Dadeville’s Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby. There were so many great pictures that in the final days of composition, we added another page to the story that starts on page 22, so we could share them with you. The closer it gets to presstime, the steeper the Adrenalin moments for the magazine team – crazy, stressful and exhausting – but we love them because it’s in those last minute details that we put a little extra polish on the pages for you. We hope you enjoy it!

Lake Martin Living Chairman Kenneth Boone Publisher Steve Baker Managing Editor Betsy Iler Assistant Magazine Editor Amy Passaretti Contributors Dave Jennings Luke Robinson Fred Muenzmay Cliff Williams Susan Foy Mitch Sneed Mark Spencer Shane Harris Donald Campbell Magazine Distribution Manager David Kendrick Creative Services Audra Spears Darlene Johnson Hallie Holloway Marketing/Advertising Sales Tippy Hunter Emily Gregg Tabby Edwards Scott Hardy Lake Martin Living P.O. Box 999 Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 www.lakemartinmagazine.com

Betsy Iler, Managing Editor

Clarification: The Alabama Graphite article on page 26 of the July 2017 issue of Lake Martin Living included references to Auburn University geology instructor John Hawkins as “Dr. Hawkins.” Mr. Hawkins holds a Master of Science degree in geology but does not have a doctorate. We apologize for the unintentional misrepresentation. 4 Lake Martin Living

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

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ON THE COVER

Alexander City dentist Dr. George Hardy moonlights as a crime-fighting sheriff in Texas Cotton; a priest sent to save the last believer in The Killer's Requiem; and a father trying to protect his family in Troll 2, just a few of the thriller/suspense movies in which he has starred over nearly 30 years. Photo courtesy of Texas Cotton director Tyler Russell.

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Homemade cars of every shape and style sped down the hill on Dadeville's Columbus Street in last month's old-fashioned soapbox derby. Photo by Cliff Williams

FEATURES 20. WATER|WAYS Smithsonian Institution's educational exhibit visits Alexander City 22. READY, SET, GO! D adeville hosts the return of the traditional soapbox derby 28. FILLINGS & FILM Alexander City's Dr. George Hardy maintains dual careers as dentist and movie star 32. GARDENING EXTRAVAGANZA This year's event will feature Chris VanCleave, Sara Van Beck, Felder Rushing and Carol Reese

IN EVERY ISSUE 9. AROUND THE AREA 12. HAPPY GARDEN 14. ALABAMA NATURALIST 16. FROM THE TEE 18. FAB FINDS 34. MEDICAL NEWS 35. MONEY MATTERS 36. OH SNAP! 40. LAKE REGION EVENTS 50. THE LAST WORD

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AROUND THE AREA

‘Team United’ goal set at $550,000

Pacesetter's Big Reveal

Russell Brands employees pledged $30,405.54 as the pacesetters for this year's local United Way campaign, which is themed, "Team United."

United Way of the Lake Martin Area (UWLMA) kicked off its 2018 fundraising campaign Aug. 28 with a “Team United” party at the Betty Carol Graham Technology Center on the campus of Central Alabama Community College. “I’m overwhelmed. This is probably the biggest crowd we’ve ever had,” saud UWLMA Executive Director Shannon Fuller, estimating around 250 people had filled the Graham Center’s auditorium. The fundraiser thermometer was officially unveiled during the event, with a goal of $550,000 for this year’s campaign. Joining the festivities were cheerleaders from Reeltown, Benjamin Russell, Central Coosa and Horseshoe Bend, the Horseshoe Bend majorettes and the mascots from Central Coosa, Dadeville and

Horseshoe Bend. Members from Boy Scout Troop 169 presented the flag, Mary Bella Pemperton of the Camp Fire organization led a blessing, and the Dadeville High School Choir sang the national anthem. Around the walls of the auditorium were displays from each of the 28 agencies served by United Way, from Meals on Wheels and Camp ASCCA to The Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity of Alexander City. Guests were invited to wander through the displays and learn more about the organizations. Russell Brands was chosen to be this year’s pacesetters and reported it exceeded expectations during this year’s company fundraiser. “This year, Russell raised $30,405.54,” reported representative Lasaua Willis. ~ Donald Campbell

Annual muster celebrates historic park The annual celebration of the founding of Horseshoe Bend National Military Park gave children and adults a glimpse into the past last month. Volunteers turned out to conduct Creek Indian hunting camp demonstrations, fire a cannon and authentic muskets and display artifacts. Children marched with the militia and learned how life was lived at the time of the Battle of Horseshoe Bend that effectively ended the War of 1812 and led to the secession of Creek lands to the young United States. In addition, children completed the requirements for the Junior Ranger badge at the park, which was established 58 years ago. The event was held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Aug. 19, and admittance was free. For more photos, see page 37 . ~ Staff Report Militia Muster

Volunteers in authentic uniforms demonstrated the firing of Horseshoe Bend National Military Park's cannon.

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Fall Propagation Made Easy Use Grandfather's no-fail quart jar method

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Happy Garden

eptember should bring relief to gardens seeds for winter gardens directly into the and signal the start of a new season for freshly soiled containers. Remember to add gardeners in areas that have been too new soil each planting session. warm for anything but hothouse tropical, Here are a few tips and techniques for as well as Southern hemisphere gardeners. propagating. Gearing up for a fresh start, September can be There are several methods for propagating one of the busiest months in the garden. Let’s flowering plants and shrubs. We would like just hope the weather cooperates with the to share the two that my grandfather used for following to-do list. his roses and gardenias. Hillside gardens in our area need extra You’ll need a quart glass jar with two oldattention with the extreme rain and heat. Try fashioned hairpins to create a miniature to take advantage of the rain with the idea greenhouse. that weeding is easier with wet soil. If you Start by removing the grass and stubble have golf shoes or other spiked sports shoes, to expose the soil next to the bush you want consider wearing them when on the hillside. to propagate. You’ll want to clean a spot just When you have ruts from excess wash, larger than the mouth of the jar. Bend the think about placing a potted plant; leave it lowest young green limb that has a blossom Fred Muenzmay in the pot and dig a depression (not a hole) on it (even if it is an exhausted blossom) in which to set the pot. Place oddly shaped into the exposed soil and bury the stem just stones (5- to 10-pounders) to redirect water slightly below the surface. Gently use the that may have caused the wash. hairpins to anchor the little limb in place. Water the soil; This also is a good time to place small yard art with and then, place the jar mouth-side down over the buried pegs or pins to keep it in place and plant small vines, like stem, leaving the blossom exposed to the air. English ivy, close by. Ivy stays very visible when it walks You have now created a miniature greenhouse that will and can be controlled. use the condensation in the jar to keep the sprig moist Large container vegetable gardens are close to being until it takes root. No more attention is required. After a finished unless you’ve planted a winter crop. These few weeks, you will be able to cut the stem away from the gardens will require similar care, and you can start your mother plant, dig up the newly rooted sprig and plant it

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elsewhere. This method has always produced a healthy Each article imparts much advice, knowledge and hints rooted plant. for our gardens. Every article has a different twist about The second method is to take cuttings from green what, when, where and why. stems that show some new growth or budding. Remove As I sit on this rainy afternoon, my mind wanders from all diseased leaves and the continual rain dripping carefully remove all green off the porch roof to the material from the plant folks in Texas, Louisiana nodes, except for the top and Florida. Many leaf. Americans have had their Fill a clean pot – one attention focused on the that has watering holes – recent hurricanes and the with potting soil. You can devastation and flooding n Stop fertilizing use root tone (a purchased of thousands of homes n Bring summer houseplants indoors when material) or some fireplace and businesses, wondering nighttime temperatures hit 50 degrees oak ashes to dip the cut where the many people end of your cuttings in to affected will live and how Fahrenheit assist in protecting from they will survive such a n Start fall cleanup in the flowerbeds, rot. Place the green stem disaster. We, the people, cutting back anything that has finished in the potting soil with the are the guardians of this blooming or is diseased single leaf not touching the part of the planet. soil. This fledgling can be From our garden n Consider propagating a few of your kept indoors or outdoors perspective, there is not favorite blooming bushes and expand this with partial sun and shade, much we can do physically year’s beds but always keep it moist. to assist these folks. From n Photograph your gardens and There is satisfaction in our hearts and souls, we creating plants for your are called each and every containers for a record of the year’s garden. These propagation day to reach out and help triumphs and frustrations methods also work well those in need. Citizens n Turn the compost bed a few times when you have older in harm’s way need our n Divide and move perennials bushes and plants that may help. Our local churches, be difficult to find on the restaurants, businesses n Find your old bulbs from spring and dig open market. Being a part and organizations are them up and store in a dry place of plant creation is very on the alert. National n Start planting new varieties of spring rewarding. organizations are pressed bulbs Have fun in your garden for funds and means. We this September. can help by checking with I am sitting in my local churches and other easy wicker chair on the organizations that are front porch watching gathering clothes, bedding, the hummingbirds while I write this article. I have just food, containers, etc. completed reading a stack of home and garden magazines The “What to Do in September” for others is very clear. on the table beside me, including one Lake Martin Living Our local United Way is already set up to receive funds, magazine that includes an article we wrote last year. and if you type “where to help Harvey victims” (scam protected sites), you can get a complete, up-to-date list of items needed. Thank you.

September in Growing Zone 8a

~ Fred Muenzmay of Eagle's Roost Herb Farms is a Master Gardner and has been in the business of growing organic herbs, vegetables and blueberries for regional and local farmers markets for 26 years. Contact him at fmuenzmay@earthlink.net. Propagate Your Garden with These Two Simple Methods

Facing page: Method 1: Use hairpins to secure a green stem to prepared soil; then, water well and place the mouth of a quart glass jar gently over the stem to create a miniature greenhouse for the new plant; Left: Method 2: Cut all of the leaves from nodes except the top one, dip stem in rooting agent and place in a container with potting soil.

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Register now for Naturalist Course

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Alabama Naturalist

he Tallapoosa County Extension office will plants; freshwater Discover Nature Above: Master offer the Alabama Master Naturalist Course ecosystems and living Naturalist students beginning Oct. 5. The eight-session course streams; invertebrates search for insects in the will be held on Thursdays either once or twice a (including insects); forest floor. month. Classes will be held at Wind Creek State birds and mammals; Park in Alexander City from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. amphibians and reptiles; The Alabama Master Naturalist (AMN) program Alabama’s cultural is a statewide program designed to promote landscape; geology, soils and weather; and forests awareness, understanding and respect for Alabama’s and ecosystems. natural world and to develop a statewide corps Full course details and information can be found of well-informed volunteers who are equipped to online at www.aces.edu/Tallapoosa. Cost of this provide education, outreach and service dedicated course is $30 per day or $200 for all eight sessions. to the beneficial management of natural resources Full-time or part-time Alabama residents who are and natural areas within their communities. interested in nature, enjoy the outdoors and desire To become a certified AMN typically takes to help with Natural resource management and one year but could take longer, depending on conservation in Alabama are the perfect candidates the training regiment and track each participant to become Alabama Master Naturalists. The AMN chooses. In addition to 40 hours of basic training, Program is open to all adults regardless of race, Shane Harris participants are also required to complete 30 hours color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, of volunteer service during the first year. political beliefs, sexual orientation or marital or During the next three years, an additional 30 family status. hours of advanced training will also be required to become Space is limited. If interested in participating in the a fully certified AMN. In addition, each Alabama Master 2017 Master Naturalist Program, call the Tallapoosa Naturalist will be encouraged to complete a minimum of 40 County Extension office at 256-825-1050. hours of volunteer service per year, as described in the AMN program. ~ Shane Harris is County Coordinator at the Tallapoosa Class topics will include taxonomy, botany and native County Extension Office. Contact him at 256-825-1050. 14 Lake Martin Living

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Keep your eye on the dime

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and more putting practice pointers

ou’ve got to stay still while you’re moving to make those important putts. The next time you watch golf on television, watch the good putters closely. Their bodies don’t move below the waist; however, whenever I go to the practice green at Willow Point Golf & Country Club, I’ve seen less lower body motion from people using hula-hoops. In putting, it seems that people have a common miss to one side of the hole or the other. For a right-handed golfer, lifting the head or the eyes following the ball too quickly usually misses to the right. Whenever I see a turning motion in the lower body, I see a lot of putts pulling left. Next time you have the time to practice your putting, try two separate things. Keep your head still and allow the putter to stroke through the ball, at least to the finish of the stroke, before looking at the golf ball. While practicing this particular move, I try to focus my sight on a piece of grass immediately behind the ball. This way, I am not as eager to watch what the ball is doing. Another way to practice this is to place your golf ball on a dime. After the stroke, you want your eyes to be staring at the dime, not the ball. These two drills may help you to keep your head in place throughout the stroke. This simple little improvement will allow you to keep the putter blade square to your target through impact, rather than opening up as it reaches the ball. To keep your body still, it is imperative to separate your upper body from your lower body at the waist. You absolutely want your shoulders and torso to be swinging, twisting or turning (whichever thought you choose) along with the movement of your arms, hands and putter through the stroke. The hips should not be opening up in the follow-through in putting. A good drill to learn to keep 16 Lake Martin Living

From the Tee

Dave Jennings

your lower body still is to put approximately 60 percent of your weight on your front foot and feel like you are locking (or tightening) your inner thighs. In your putting strokes, you do not want to feel any weight shift whatsoever from one foot to the other. While keeping your head and your lower body still, the putter should be able to work more down the target line rather than turn left with your body. When you can keep your eyes quiet, as well as your head and lower body still, you could begin hitting putts much more solid and consistent. These two improvements will allow you to improve your direction control. Once you have your direction under control, all you need to focus on is your speed. Let me assure you, when you have confidence that your ball is going to track down your intended line, you will make more putts. Now that you’ve mastered the direction control with your putting, begin focusing on speed control. A good and simple drill is to drop three-to-five golf balls on the green between 25 and 45 feet away; place a couple of tees about 2 feet apart and 12 to 18 inches beyond the cup into the ground. Stroke these putts with the goal of having the ball go into the hole – but should it miss, you don’t want the ball to pass the tees. This drill will help you acquire more feel for distance. It will also challenge you on each putt. I suggest that you always have some sort of challenge in your practice, so you are more aware of your improvement from one practice to the next. When working on speed, notice which direction the grain of the grass is growing. Should you be putting “into” the grain, your putts will be a little slower. Should you be putting “with” or “down” the grain, your putts will be a little faster and tend to roll out farther. Grain can be determined by a

few factors. You may notice that the grass has a sheen or is lighter in color more in one direction than another. When you see the lighter color or sheen, you are rolling your putt with the grain. In contrast, if the grass is a bit duller in color, you are putting into the grain. You also could look at the cup itself. Should you notice that the grass appears more worn on the left side of the cup, the grain is growing from right to left. You may determine the grain by looking at the green and imagining which direction water would flow during a rainstorm or irrigation, as grass tends to grow in the same direction as the water runoff. A final factor, especially on a very flat green, is determining the direction in which the sun sets (which in most places on our planet is west). Grass tends to grow toward the setting sun because the sun is more intense in the afternoons than the morning sun. Most new golf architects will remove trees from the west side of the greens during renovation or when creating a new golf course because the trees’ shadows would slow or inhibit grass growth on the greens, especially if the grass is of the Bermuda variety. Another factor in making a lot of putts is becoming a good green reader. Let’s imagine that the golf course superintendent and his crew have done a good job in removing most of the grain from the grass on the putting surfaces through a verti-cut program and applications of lightly sanding (top-dressing) the greens. I have putted on greens where the ball rolls uphill due to heavy grain (those courses are nightmares). With a good maintenance program to the putting surfaces, golfers can learn to read greens by determining how much gravity will influence, how much a rolling golf ball will turn to the left or right and how much gravity will slow a golf ball down or speed it up on uphill or downhill slopes. Imagination and experience are needed in making good decisions on green reading. Keep in mind that a ball rolling fast will not break as much as a ball rolling slowly. Most confident putters take out a lot of break on short putts by firming them into the back of the hole. A great way to learn how to read greens is to hit a putt toward the middle of the practice green, aiming straight at a tee or a hole. After the ball has come to rest, crouch down behind where the ball started and look at the path on which that ball traveled. During this observation, you should begin to see how undulation affects the roll of the ball. Do this a dozen times from a variety of directions and at various lengths, and you should start understanding how slope and grain affect your golf ball as it rolls. This is a great method to use when you play a new course and are not familiar with the greens. Keep in mind, these factors hold true to your chipping as well. Bump-and-run chips are very similar to putts, so read the green before executing your shot and you may find yourself making more pars and birdies. Golf is so much more fun when you’re making putts. Put in a little more effort and practice with a purpose on the putting green.

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~ Dave Jennings is the men’s golf coach at Central Alabama Comunity College. Lake Martin Living 17

FABULOUS FINDS

Willow Glynn, The Abby $1,250,000 Just completed by RLH Construction. The Abby is a 3,219 sq. ft. plan designed by Chuck Frusterio. Owner’s suite and guest suites on main level with spacious livingdining-kitchen and large covered porch. Lake level offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, generous lake-prep room, family room, wet bar, second laundry, and spacious covered patio for outdoor entertaining. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Mark or Rhonda 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

South Ridge Estates, Y Knot $1,750,000 Looking for the perfect homesite and lake houseplan? Take a look at this stunning design by Bill Farshee. Under construction by Classic Homes, this plan is a unique design that provides lake views from every room. The main living area is surrounded by covered lakeside porches. Two owner’s suites on main level and rec room, bunk loft and two guest suites on upper level. A detached two-car garage with guest suite above completes this plan. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Call Rhonda or Mark 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

South Ridge Harbor, Diamond View $1,650,000 Classic Homes, a division of Russell Lands, has just broken ground on the "Diamond View" in The Ridge. This exciting new lake home design by Larry Furlong has it all: four bedrooms, four full baths, two powder rooms, PLUS two Great Rooms...one on each level. Claim your spot next to the stone fireplace and cozy up to spectacular views of Kowaliga Bay! The open kitchen overlooks the living and dining areas making this home perfect for entertaining family and friends. Call today for more details or to visit this new home project in person! Russell Lands On Lake Martin Contact Mark or Rhonda 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

Willow Glynn, Riverside Cottage $1,224,900 Under construction by RLH Construction & designed by Mitch Ginn, this design offers 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2 living areas and vaulted ceilings in the kitchen and owner’s suite. Enjoy the spectacular water views from both of the spacious covered porches. Russell Lands On Lake Martin Rhonda or Mark 256.215.7011 www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com

525 Nicholson Road, Alexander City • $995,000 Enjoy Lake Martin like it was meant to be enjoyed. Create memories in this ''Cabin'' style home. Located in the cabin community of Nichols Cove with wooded surroundings and nostalgic dirt roads.Convenient to everything. Very private with open views of Kowaliga Bay! If you are looking for a move-in ready home, great location and views, you have found it here! A must see. Lake Martin Realty Damon Story 205.789.9526 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

82 Misty Ridge, Alexander City • $1,289,900 A winning combination, Mitch Ginn's, Riverside plan built by Keel and Till, Inc. Spectacular views across the Blue Creek channel! Tucked behind Cypress Island for a great place to swim and enjoy the lake. Beautiful wood finishes, vaulted wood ceilings, stone, upscale kitchen and so much more. Lake Martin Realty Rhonda Jaye 256.749.8681 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

62 Windjammer, Windermere $898,000 Top quality appointments & finishes including white oak floors, granite & marble countertops, travertine stonework, stainless appliances, copper lanterns, & a vaulted wood ceiling. Main level is completely handicap accessible. The screened and open-air lakeside porches face a large stone, wood-burning fireplace. Extras include a private outdoor shower off the master bath, commercial grade ice maker, gas cooking stove, top quality custom-built cabinetry, a butler's pantry, nursery/sleeping closet, a boat lift, an underground pet fence, & a green monster fishing light. Lake Martin Realty Mimi Rush 334.399.7874 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

883 North Ridge, The Ridge $1,050,000 Brand new and ready for you!! This lake home is market priced and has all the extra you dream about---views from most rooms.. huge open greatroom; master on main with greatroom and bedrooms on lower level for a quick dash to the lake. Deep water lot and landscaped with gorgeous stones... Call for your personal appointment! Lake Martin Realty India Davis 256.749.7592 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

684 Long Pine, Eclectic $847,500 Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Lake Martin from this impressive 4bed/3.5bath home on 1.34 acres. Unique features include two fireside family rooms, a luxurious main level master suite and an oversized deck to take in the panoramic lake views. A manicured backyard with a fire pit leads to a boat dock and private pier. The 3-car attached garage allows for easy storage of vehicles and toys! Lake Martin Realty Becky Haynie 334.312.0928 www.LakeMartinRealty.com

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Traveling Smithsonian exhibit visits Alexander City STORY BY DONALD CAMPBELL PHOTOS COURTESY OF SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION

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hanks to a combined partnership between the Smithsonian Institute and the Alabama Humanities Foundation, MainStreet Alexander City will host a traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian this fall. The exhibit, Water|Ways, will be open to the public from Oct. 5 and Nov. 7. “It’s going to be inside on the main floor of city hall,” said MainStreet Executive Director Bre Smith. “It’ll be right up front.” The partnership to bring this exhibition to Alexander City began around a year ago, with the banners announcing this event going up within the last few days before the exhibit pieces arrive and begin to be assembled at the end of September, she said. The exhibit is interactive, allowing visitors the chance to get up close and personal on how water impacts the rest of the environment, historical aspects of water subjects and the importance of not polluting waterways, according to Smith. The exhibit includes interactive aspects, including an iPad and a television to share additional information with guests. Alexander City is the third of six Alabama cities the exhibit will visit. “It began in Eufaula and is currently in Decatur,” said Grants Director of the Alabama Humanities Foundation Thomas Bryant. “After Alexander City, it will go down to Spanish Fort on Mobile Bay; then up to Jasper before concluding in Selma.” In addition to the exhibit set up inside city hall during the month of October, Smith said historian John Kvoch would be speaking about this subject at the Adelia M. Russell Library at 5 p.m. on Oct. 16. The Wonderful Ways of Water

Because the Smithsonian Institution's Water|Ways exhibit highlights the importance of water, the Alabama Humanities Foundation wanted to display the collection in communities with close ties to water. The exhibit places emphasis on the beauty of the country's waterways and the variety of ways they affect people's lives. Alexander City was a perfect choice. Clockwise from far left: The Colorado River; Newport Beach; Harper's Ferry; and the Chattahoochee River.

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Ready, Set, Go! STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI & DONALD CAMPBELL PHOTOS BY CLIFF WILLIAMS & MITCH SNEED

Dadeville hosts the return of the soapbox derby

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tepping away from the phones, internet and technology that consumes children’s lives these days, Dadeville’s Marrell Ward wanted to share his childhood memories of some good old-fashioned creative fun to get children excited about something unique. The inaugural Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby, in honor of Ward’s late son, did just that, and interest continues to grow. “Parents really enjoyed spending time with their children. Everyone was really enthusiastic about it,” said Ward, who grew up participating in soapbox derbies in his hometown of Ocala, Florida. Nearly 30 cars were built from any number of mediums imaginable, all different shapes and sizes, and the results were impressive. The only requirements were that all vehicles Suped-Up Styles Previous Pages: All eyes were on include brakes the racers as they sped toward the and hand steering Finish Line in the first Ducky Ward mechanisms, Soap Box Derby. Facing Page: usually using steel Race organizer Marrel Ward made braided cable; in several cars for kids who weren't addition, each rider able to make their own, and was required to other drivers invested hours in the wear a Department making of their vehicles that were styled after big rig trucks, hot rods, of Transportation sponsored professional rides and (DOT)-approved more. Crowds turned out to see helmet. Ward said the cars and cheer on their favoite drivers in the inaugural event. the concept of

Race for the Win

Chariot Ward drove a kayak-styled custom car over the Finish Line to win the double-elimination soapbox derby races last month in Dadeville.

constructing these vehicles is fairly simple, and cars are made mostly from wood, fiberglass, wheels and metal parts. Wanting to remain inclusive to those families that couldn’t afford the time or money to build their own cars, Ward hand made nine cars that were available for kids to use. With his background in construction work and maintenance, he said, he was able to build one in about two or three days if he worked steadily. “I enjoy piddling with stuff and working on things. I pulled the ideas from my head, my memory, from seeing things from years ago,” said Ward. Russell Do it Center donated most of the materials for construction of Ward’s vehicles, and he said some children have already signed up to use the same car next time. Participants were aged anywhere from 6 to15 years old and raced two at a time down Columbus Street next to the Dadeville football stadium. The average car sped down the hill at around 19 to 24 mph, with the speed being recorded by radar for kids to observe as they crossed the finish line. “A lot of people don’t realize when you’re sitting that close to the ground you’re moving pretty fast. It might not seem that fast, but a small object that low – it’s Lake Martin Living 25

moving,” said Ward. Ward’s granddaughter Chariot Ward was the winner of this year’s race with her version of a kayak-shaped car that was the fastest speed at 24 mph, and Brady Knox came in second place with his Nesquik sponsored roadster. Third place was awarded to Logan Champion, and all kids involved had the chance to vote on their favorite design, which awarded Adam Ward Best in Show for his car resembling a Jeep. The top three victors and Best in Show won large trophies, but every driver received a small medallion for participating. Even though this seems to be the first event of its kind in the area, Ward is hoping the trend will spread. He is reaching out to Reeltown, for example, and trying to spur a competition between towns and schools. “Hopefully, surrounding cities will pick it up and get involved, and that way you’ll have something going that kids can do pretty regular,” Ward said. This event took place in conjunction with a nonprofit festival that included family-friendly activities, a variety of food, inflatables, music and other vendors, with a turnout of close to 2,000 people. Ward received sponsorship and donations from local businesses for the event and hopes continued sponsor participation will keep pricing free or low, so everyone could be involved. “I want to try to keep it as cheap as possible for families. I want to not have a bunch of expenses tied to these things for parents who can’t afford to spend a lot of money on weekends and on these events. This way all 26 Lake Martin Living

Taking Fun Seriously

Spectators were impressed with a fishing boat disguised as a land shark that exemplified the fun-loving mood of the day as it slid away from the Start Line toward the bottom of the hill on Columbus Street in Dadeville.

children can still participate,” Ward added. Now that children have their cars built and their enthusiasm high, Ward wants to coordinate more races throughout the year and maybe charge a small entry fee to help fund the bigger annual festival. Ward said the number of people who have told him they’ve decided to build a car for future events is unbelievable. Families have mentioned they are in the process of working on cars, and hardware stores said people are coming in more frequently to buy the necessary materials. The sheriff ’s department, police department, rescue squad and other local organizations all mentioned sponsoring the build of cars as well, to allow a child to participate and be able to race. The Dadeville Chamber of Commerce plans to sponsor a derby race at the end of September that Wade would coordinate, which indicates other people are hopping on board with the activity. “I was just extremely impressed with the people that got involved and still impressed with the way it’s going. Next year, it sure could be a large event. I really appreciate everyone’s participation and support,” Ward said.

Lake Martin Living 27

Fillings & Film

Alexander City's Dr. George Hardy maintains dual careers as dentist and movie star STORY BY BETSY ILER PHOTOS BY AUDRA SPEARS & COURTESY OF TYLER RUSSELL

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eorge Hardy lives a double life. By day, the unassuming Alexander City native drills and fills at his dental practice on Church Street, but in his off-hours, Hardy goes for the thrills. He’s lived this way for nearly 30 years, starting in 1989 when he fell into the lead in his first film, Troll 2. “I didn’t know anything about auditioning or head shots or any of that, but this friend of mine in an aerobics class – Michelle Turner Wilson – invited me to go down and audition for this movie, and I thought, ‘well, why not?’ I was living in Salt Lake City, and I wasn’t doing anything that night, so I went,” Hardy said. Wilson is an actress whose credits include North Dallas Forty. The next day, Hardy got a phone call from the casting agent. “I got the part,” Hardy said, as if he still didn't believe it. The non-SAG (Screen Actors’ Guild) horror film was 28 Lake Martin Living

shot in 13 days, and Hardy earned $100 per filming day. “We did the best we could. We were all non-actors except Michael Paul Stephenson, who played the child lead,” Hardy said. Two years later, Troll 2 was named the Worst Movie Ever Made. “The movie was a train wreck. It was embarrassing. I watched the first one-and-a-half minutes of it and said I would never watch it again,” Hardy said. “I forgot about it and went on with my life. “Every now and then, my friends would call me and tell me the movie was on TV, and I would tell them, ‘Turn it Fighting Crime, Evil and Cavities

Above: George Hardy as Texas Cotton (left) and Judd Lormand as his high-strung deputy (right) question a suspect in this frame grab from Hardy's most recent film project; Right: Hardy and The Killer's Requiem director Brian McLane.

Lake Martin Living 29

off ! Don’t watch that. It’s awful!’” But in 2006, Hardy got a phone call from a fan. A cast reunion had been planned, so two days later, Hardy hopped on a plane to attend a screening with his fellow actors. “We were mobbed for autographs,” he said. The movie had developed a cult film following. “Mike (Stephenson) was in his 20s by then, and he said, ‘we have to make a documentary about this.’ So we did that, and Mike and I put together a road trip. We went to eight countries – 28 cities – 31 film festivals – promoting the Best Worst Movie, which was about the making of Troll 2 and this phenomenon that happened with people following it,” he said. The documentary won its division in the 2009 Fantasia Film Festival and the Catalonian International Film Festival. It was nominated for the Denver Film Critics Society Award in 2010 and took silver at the 2011 Telly Awards. Since then, Hardy has become a celebrity in certain film circles. The mail at his dental office often includes letters from fans, and he frequently entertains proposals for roles in B-grade fantasy and horror films worldwide. He’s taken roles in nine films since Best Worst Movie, including Goblin 2, which was filmed last year in Germany. He also played a priest in director Brian McLane’s The Killer’s Requiem, filming scenes locally on a rainy day last January. As Requiem’s Father Davenport, Hardy watches over the last believer in a modern thriller based on the biblical story of Job. Requiem also stars Tim Russ, who has appeared in numerous television series, including The Fosters, Renegades and Bloomers, and actor/producer/ director Lloyd Kaufman. Alexander City’s Audra Spears plays Kathy, the church secretary, in Requiem, which is in post-production and is scheduled for a 2018 release. Hardy’s current project, Texas Cotton, is focused on the life of a sheriff in a small Texas town. Under the direction of Tyler Russell, who is known for his work on Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning and Pac-Man: The Movie, Hardy filmed a 10-minute segment – called a ‘short’ – outside of Austin in May. The segment also features Mark Borchardt, whose work has won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival (1999) and Judd Lormand, whose credits include NCIS: New Orleans (TV series), Homeland (TV series), Brother’s Keeper, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and Shilo, which won the Programmers Choice Award at Birmingham’s Sidewalk Film Festival this year. Lormand recently was cast as second lead regular on the new fall series Seal Team. Hardy, Russell, Borchardt and Lormand worked together last year on the comedy, Here Comes Rusty. The Texas Cotton short covers seven pages of the full 75-page script for the movie and shows Hardy’s character walking into a possible crime scene, thanks to the bumbling of his high-strung deputy – played by Lormand. Teeth and Trolls

Above: Dr. Hardy with a patient in his Alexander City dental office; Left: Hardy as Michael Waites in Troll 2, the movie that launched his second career.

30 Lake Martin Living

Borchardt plays the film’s bad guy. The short debuted at the Alamo Draft House, and last month, Texas Cotton caused quite a buzz at Birmingham’s Sidewalk Film Festival. The segment was picked up by a SAG interest and is in the investment stage for production of a feature film starring Hardy as Cotton, a sheriff who must clean up a small Texas town. “Exposure at the film festivals helps to raise money for production,” explained Hardy. “If we can get the funding, we will film the full feature.” The name "Texas Cotton" is a working title, he said, and the final film will be released under another name. Local support for the film included an event at The Ridge early this month. Hardy said his love of acting really began during his childhood in Alexander City. “I always was a ham at home. Growing up, I was a comic. I enjoyed making people laugh,” he said. “In high school, I wanted to be an actor, but who doesn’t want to do that? “At Auburn, I was pre-med, but I had a Kappa Alpha friend who suggested I go out for cheerleading.” The cheer group performed skits, which Hardy loved, and during his tenure, the Auburn squad was named No. 1 in the nation. “I met Jerry Lewis and Chano, and I was invited to an audition to be on CHiPs (a late 1970s television series about California Highway patrolmen). My nickname in the cheer squad was ‘Hollywood Hardy,’” he said. Hardy finished at Auburn and went on to dental school at UAB. He entered the residency program and accepted a position with a pediatric practice in Salt Lake City, where his parallel life began. “It’s a lot of fun. I meet some interesting and creative people and get to do some crazy things,” Hardy said.

Healthy Hearts Make More Memories More moments mean more memories. More time with grandkids and family. More days on the lake. More sunsets. Kevin Sublett, MD, and the staff at the UAB Heart & Vascular Clinic of Central Alabama are committed to keeping your heart healthy, so you can keep on making memories. The clinic is backed by the world-class expertise you expect from UAB Medicine, offering: • The full spectrum of cardiovascular care • Care from a physician board-certified in interventional cardiology • The latest in cardiac and vascular ultrasound technology, as well as nuclear medicine imaging in accredited laboratories • Diagnosis and treatment of cardiac rhythm disorders • Convenient location within Russell Medical Center Call us today to schedule an appointment!

3368 Highway 280, Suite 130 Alexander City, AL 35010 (256) 234-2644 uabmedicine.org/heartcentralAL

Lake Martin Living 31

September 29

Gardening Extravaganza STORY BY AMY PASSARETTI

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he Tallapoosa County Extension Office will host its third Fall Gardening Extravaganza Sept. 29 with a lineup of four well-respected speakers who have passion and expertise in their fields. After two successful years of the event in 2014 and 2015, County Extension Coordinator Shane Harris said the extension office decided to take a year off to help build suspense and grow the event. “The idea came about in 2014 as having an opportunity for the average homeowner, average gardener to hear some well known horticultural speakers they may not otherwise have the chance to see,” said Harris. Several of the popular presenters are authors, TV hosts or other specialists from across the Southeast and tend to participate in more exclusive conferences and banquets. The Chris VanCleave audience was very pleased with the past years’ choices, according to Harris, and he believes the extension office has chosen a good slate of four speakers to carry on that tradition. “We like to pick a variety of people with different personalities that can talk about specific gardening topics, but Felder Rushing also entertain the crowd,” Harris said. The format will be a lecture-style, town hall type meeting with two speakers in the morning and two presenting in the afternoon with lunch provided. Harris said there also will be sponsors displaying some merchandise and book signings from local authors. The four chosen speakers this year are Chris VanCleave, Sara L. Van Beck, Felder Rushing and Carol Reese. VanCleave, known in gardening circles as the “Redneck Rosarian,” is passionate about growing roses. His writings can be found on homedepot.com and on his personal website, redneckrosarian.com. He was a contributor to the 2015 Southern Living Gardening Book, has appeared on P. Allen Smith’s Garden Home television show and was featured in the June 2015 issue of Southern Living Magazine.

More than just a horticulturist, Van Beck is a historian on the daffodil; how it arrived in the U.S., how it has survived and other background information. She currently serves as a corresponding member of the Royal Horticulture Narcissus Classification Advisory Group and has written for numerous publications, along with publishing Daffodils in American Gardens, 1733-1940 and co-authoring with her mother, Linda, Daffodils in Florida: A Field Guide to the Coastal South. “Slow Gardening” founder Rushing will speak about his approach of finding and following personal garden bliss. He is author or co-author of 18 gardening books and a former Extension Service urban horticulture specialist who began the Master Gardener program in Mississippi. Rushing has appeared in thousands of newspapers and both Sara L. Van Beck regional and national garden magazines. Carol Reese is an Ornamental Horticulture Specialist with UT Extension and a contributor to several garden magazines. She writes a weekly gardening and nature column for the Jackson Sun in Tennessee. Her presentation, Take a Walk on the Wild Carol Reese Side, will discuss how to create and design a year-round flourishing habitat and wildlife garden. “This program pulls people from more than 100 miles and a lot of Master Gardeners across the state,” said Harris. Beginning at 9 a.m., the event will run until 3 p.m. and will be held at the Betty Graham Technology Center on the Alexander City campus of Central Alabama Community College. Registration is $25 and must be done by calling the Tallapoosa County Extension Service office at 256-825-1050. But, Harris cautioned, space is limited, and the two previous gardening extravaganza events sold out. “There is an urgency if people want to come. We won’t be taking anyone at the door,” said Harris.

Lake Martin Living 33

Fun and Funds Pajamas, purses and pizza to benefit local cancer center

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Medical News

hat do designer handbags, citizens of gourmet pizza, pajamas the Lake and airplane hangars have Martin in common? Combined, they are the area! perfect ingredients to cook up a fabulous In addition ladies night out to raise awareness for to all of the fun mentioned above, breast cancer. Join the fun from 6:30 there’s the unique venue experience p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at T.C. Russell Airport itself. Purses for a Purpose will be held in in Alexander City on Thursday, Oct. the former Russell Corporation hangar 5, for a UAB – Russell Medical Cancer at the Alexander City airport. Ladies, Center benefit. We’ll raffle off designer don’t miss the area’s largest pajamahandbags to show our girlfriends that purse-pizza party! Seating is limited, when it comes to breast cancer, no one and tickets may be purchased from the fights alone. Russell Medical Marketing Department Wear your best pajamas (yes, you read for $25 each. The marketing office is Susan Foy that correctly … it’s so trendy now, located at 115 Alison Dr. (the former and let’s face it, it’s fun!), dine Paul’s Drugstore building) directly across on gourmet pizza from from Radney School. Lake Martin Pizza Co.; sip your For additional information and table favorite wine or beer from Ocie reservations, please contact Jessica Sanford, & Belles; and purchase chances community relations coordinator, at 256-329-7145 to win designer handbags. You’ll or email her at jsanford@russellmedcenter.com. look fabulous toting around the Breast cancer touches all of our lives. According hottest handbag this fall. to the American Cancer Society’s estimates Proceeds go to the Russell of breast cancer in the United States for 2017, Medical Foundation to help with approximately 252,710 new cases of invasive the purchase of respiratory-gated breast cancer will be diagnosed in women. In radiotherapy – a technology upgrade addition, 63,410 new cases of carcinoma in situ for our radiation linear accelerator. will be diagnosed. (Carcinoma in situ is nonRespiratory-gated radiotherapy offers a invasive and is the earliest form of breast cancer). significant potential for improvement Unfortunately, roughly 40,610 women will die from in the irradiation of tumor sites breast cancer. affected by respiratory motion, We stand together in the fight against breast such as lung, breast and liver cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment is key for tumors. This upgrade will optimal outcomes. The Women’s Center at Russell allow more patients to receive Medical encourages every woman to adhere to an radiation treatments early detection plan consisting of breast self-exams, at the cancer center clinical breast exams and mammograms based on in Alexander City, age and health history. A gynecologist or family alleviating the need physician can perform a clinical breast exam as part to travel to larger of an annual visit and can advise women on the metro areas for frequency of mammography scheduling. treatment. What an awesome gift ~ Susan Foy is marketing director for Russell to give to the Medical. 34 Lake Martin Living

Start Smart I

t’s an exciting time for Alexander City, as we’ve seen the local economy start to transform with more people starting or expanding local businesses. For these business owners, it can sometimes be a challenge to know where to start in finding financing. Starting with a solid, well-researched business plan is an important first step, but there are also other things to think about as you get started. With that in mind, here are some things to consider as you look to finance a startup or growing business:

If that doesn’t happen quickly, will MONEY expansion. you have issues in paying the loan? Understand MATTERS what your payments will look like with the loan

Have a rock-solid business plan

you are requesting, and how long it will take to repay the loan. Then factor this into your plan.

Consider your employment needs

Think about how many employees you will need to hire to start your business or for your expansion. If it’s a major expansion, think about the employee pool you have to pull from. It’s important to be realistic about the type of people you need – what skills they should have and what level of experience is required. This will determine if you need to budget for training or for running ads for the people you need.

Your business plan should be thorough and Mark Spencer include conservative estimates for revenue, growth and costs. You should also outline who It’s never too early to consult with your your audience is and why you think demand for bank your product or service is strong. If you need assistance or It’s helpful to talk with your banker early, so you can feedback on your business plan, resources like workshops and get feedback on what the lender is looking for and what experts through the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce information you’ll need to supply. Then, when you are ready and the Lake Martin Innovation Center can offer suggestions. to move forward, you’ll come back fully prepared. This is why And for companies looking to grow, detailing your recent it is so important to have a relationship with your banker. success – and where that business has come from – will help This approach helps both sides of the deal, because your support the idea of having a lender finance an expansion. banker will already be familiar with your business.

Meet with your accountant

Know there are many options available for loans

Know your timeframe of return on investment

-Mark Spencer is Senior Vice President, Central Alabama Area Executive for USAmeriBank and serves on the board of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce.

We advise meeting with your accountant early in the process because CPAs can provide a wealth of support and guidance on what is beneficial for your business. And since they know the details of your business, they can provide wellinformed feedback on your plan. As you work on your business plan, think about how long it will take to see increased revenues and profits from your

In many cases, you may qualify for a loan with the Small Business Administration, which may offer a lower interest rate or less collateral. A knowledgeable banker will provide a number of options to you, and this should be part of that early conversation you have with your banker.

Lake Martin Living 35

OH SNAP!

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Ducky Ward Soap Box Derby Aug. 19, 2017 Dadeville High School 1. Brady Knox

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2. Jewelle Gulley 3. Logan Rawls 4. Chariot Ward

5. Addi Nolen 6. Ethan Vickery 7. Addison Spates 8. Matthew, William and Alicia Camp

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Muster on the Tallapoosa Aug. 19, 2017 Horseshoe Bend National Military Park 1. Debbie Thompson

2. Gene Godfrey and Brenda Darnell

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3. Bryson Kilgore and Phillip Mayhair 4. Kasey and Cooper Allen and Landyn and Berke Wagoner 5. Pete Dunaway 6. Tom Garrett and Kevin Foshee 7. Jeffrey Hall, Jim Landers and Joe Thompson 8. Matthew Robinson, Tim Napier, Stetson Handshy and Brian Robinson

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Miracle Field Fundraiser

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Aug.19, 2017 Charles E. Bailey Sportplex 1. Brooklynn Hawkins and Addie Kate McGregor 2. Brandie, Darcie and Charlie Driggers 3. Kim Pritchard and KK Hines 4. Breanne and Emerson Farr 5. Megan Reynolds and Katie, Cole and Clint Myers 6. Jim Hardy and Landon McGregor

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Cornhole Tournament September 2, 2017 The Landing at Parker Creek, Equality 1. Tanya Mann

2. Randall Garrison 3. Russ Wilsford, Keeley Lindemood, Scott and Heather Russell and Vickie and Jim Wilsford 4. William, Katherine and Christin Cochran, Mary Catherine Steba and Carrie Ann Cochran 5. Branson Oliver and Jaxson Garrison Lake Martin Living 39

THE LAKE REGION

Calendar FEATURED EVENT

Fall Boogie celebrates six years The 6th Annual Fall Boogie at Standard Deluxe in Waverly Sept. 23 will feature a mix of soul, rock, folk, Southern and punk. Lee Bains III and the Glory Fires, Revel in Dimes, Maggie Koerner, Heath Green and the Makeshifters, Lonnie Holley Band and Faye Webster are scheduled to play, but you never know who might show up and agree Time to Boogie to take the stage Revel in Dimes for a song or two. is one of six Members of New bands in the Orleans’ Alabama lineup for this Shakes came out for year's Fall Boogie. the spring event a few years ago. This multicultural music and arts festival gets bigger and better every year, as food and beverage, art and farm vendors join the fun on the lawn. This year’s vendors include Cathead Vodka, Wickles Pickles, Southern Accents Architectural 40 Lake Martin Living

Antiques, Mellow Mushroom, Tacorita and more. The sloping grassy lawn at Standard Deluxe lends itself to the occasion as a mini-amphitheater under tall pines, said Standard Deluxe owner Scott Peek. The bands play on a covered outdoor stage at the foot of the slope. Bring chairs, blankets and friends, as well as coolers. This is a BYOB event, but no glass bottles will be allowed (coolers will be checked at the gate). No dogs allowed on the premises. No smoking is allowed on the lawn.

The Fall Boogie is a spin-off of the Old 280 Boogie – a street party originally held in the spring of 2001 to celebrate the opening of the U.S. Highway 280 bypass that moved heavy traffic off the streets in the small town of Waverly. The Spring Boogie celebrated its 17th year earlier this year. The Fall Boogie will be held rain or shine. Gates open at 11 a.m., and the show starts at noon. Arrive early, Peek suggested, as this annual concert swells the population of Waverly – estimated at 148 in 2016 – by 10-fold, and parking spaces close to the venue could be few and far between later in the day. Parking is available in the downtown area of Waverly, as well as church and nutrition center parking lots and roadways. Please do not park in or block driveways and do not park in the cemetery. Tickets are $25-$30 and are on sale now at standarddeluxe.com.

LAKE REGION EVENTS Sept. 18

Horizons Unlimited

Dr. Paul Harris will present The Berlin Airlift and Operation Kinderlift at the Alexander City Board of Education building at 375 Lee St. from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Harris is the associate director for the University Honors College and mentors Auburn’s brightest students in the application for national prestigious scholarships.

Sept. 21

Democratic Party Meeting

The Tallapoosa County Democratic Party will host a meeting from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Charles Porch Center. The program will focus on the Dec. 12 special election to fill the Senate seat formerly held by Jeff Sessions. Call Carol Gowan at 256-794-7432 for additional information.

Sept. 21

Artists Association of Central Alabama

The general meeting includes a membership drive with an open studio. The meeting will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Senior Activity Center at the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex in Alexander City.

Sept. 23

Dadeville Fall Festival

Held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., friends and family can gather for a day of fun including arts and crafts vendors, food vendors and activities for children, including inflatables. Vendor booths are available and if interested, should contact the Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce at 256-825-4019 or email chamber@dadeville.com.

Sept. 23

Stargazing

The Auburn Astronomical Society will set up telescopes to look at the night sky at 5 p.m. on Hospice Point near the silo at Wind Creek State Park.

Sept. 25

Horizons Unlimited

Terry Robbins, award-winning singer/musician from Clay County, will be present Merle Haggard, The People’s Poet at the Alexander City Board of Education located at 375 Lee St. from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Robbins worked in insurance for 32 years and taught school and coached as well. He only recently focused on his music talents when he joined Sylacauga Songwriters in 2014.

Sept. 26-28

Still Life in Oils

Tallapoosa School of Art in Dadeville will host a threeday workshop for beginner to intermediate level artists. Painters will learn to create light and shadow on the canvas and arrange floral still life in the studio and en plein air. Instructor Barbara Binford Davis will provide demonstrations and personal attention at this workshop in oils. Visit www.tallapoosaworkshops.com for more information.

Sept. 29

Gardening Extravaganza

The Tallapoosa County Extension Service will host four renowned gardening speakers from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Betty Carol Graham Technology Center on the Alexander City Central Alabama Community College campus. Chris VanCleave, Sara L. Van Beck, Felder Rushing and Carol Reese will present timely, educational and entertaining programs pertinent to gardening in Central Alabama. Tickets are $25 and are available through the Extension Service at 256-825-1050.

Oct. 2

Horizons Unlimited

Sarah Bliss Wright will present Ida Quilt Project at the Alexander City Board of Education building at 375 Lee St. from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wright spent 30 years in the performing arts and singing in more than 40 operas before focusing her skills on quilt making. Her serious study of quilt history led to her textile art being featured in exhibits and her selection as the curator

for Our Quilted Past. She is a Road Scholar for the Alabama Humanities Foundation.

Oct. 2-4

Painting the Figure/ Portrait in the Southern Landscape

Hodges Soileau will lead this three-day workshop for intermediate to advanced levels painters at Dadeville’s Tallapoosa School of Art. Participants will learn to observe and paint the human figure from life in a natural light, waterfront setting. Models will be on site for daily demonstrations and plein air painting with special attention provided to each student. For information, visit www. tallapoosaworkshops.com/schedule.

Oct. 7

4th Annual BGHS Car Show

Bibb Graves High School Alumni will host their 4th annual car show at Millerville with 50/50 tickets, a money tree, games, door prizes, food and more to raise money for the community center. Registration is from 8 a.m. to noon. Open for spectators from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For information, contact Ben Wood at wood1950@centurylink.net.

Oct. 8

Alabama Art Colony Art Walk

Shop for original art created by regional artists of the 2017 Alabama Art Colony workshop. The walk will be held on the Lake Martin campus of Children’s Harbor from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in cabins 9 and 10.

Oct. 9-10

Throw Away Day

Middle Tallapoosa Clean Water Partnership and the Tallapoosa County Commission have teamed up to place dumpsters at five locations for free use by residents. Large household items can be deposited in the dumpsters at the Courthouse Annex in Alexander City, Doubles Bridges on state Route 63, Eagle Creek, Camp Hill Town Hall and Union. For details, contact Sabrina Wood at sabrinawood@live.com. Lake Martin Living 41

LAKE REGION EVENTS Oct. 14

37th Annual Custom Car Show

Oct. 19

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver

This open show format with a money tree will have registration from 8 a.m. to noon at Oktoberfest. All cars will be parked on asphalt. For more information, contact Danny Pike at 256-496-0024 or danny.pike@alexandercityal.gov.

This favorite act on the Alexander City Arts, Inc., roster will return to the Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 and will be available at the door or online at AlexanderCityArts.org.

Oct. 14

Downtown Showdown and Fashion Show

26th Annual Waverly BBQ

Food will be served at the Waverly Community Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., but the event begins at 8 a.m. BBQ sandwiches and chips will be $5 or two for $9. BBQ meat is $9 per pound and whole Boston butts are $30 with presales available for pickup after 9 a.m. A chicken or pork plate will be sold for $9, and a quart of stew will be $9, as well. There also will be a silent auction, quilt raffle, arts and crafts, barnyard bingo and more. For information, call 334-8877288.

Oct. 15

Tallapoosee Historical Society

Auburn University’s Sue Mason will present the lecture, Native Americans - Life and Times Before the Spanish Arrived, explaining how the native Americans lived, what they ate, how they cooked, etc., at 2 p.m. at the historical museum in Dadeville. She will share pictures, and refreshments will be served. The meeting is free to the public. Contact Elsie Jo Washburn for information, at ejwashburn@charter.net.

Oct. 16

Horizons Unlimited

Dr. James Hansen will present Robert Trent Jones & the Making of Modern Golf, also the name of his latest published book, at the Alexander City Board of Education building at 375 Lee St. from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Hansen has been an expert in aerospace history for 26 years and wrote many books and articles, including his award-winning First Man that was the first and only authorized biography of Neil Armstrong. 42 Lake Martin Living

Oct. 19

The Lake Martin Area United Way will host its 5th Annual Downtown Showdown and Fashion Show in the United Way back parking lot at 17 Main St. in Alexander City. The event begins at 6 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer, local designers and a silent auction, and the fashion show begins at 7 p.m. VIP tables are available for $500 per table, and tickets are $30 per person; both are available for purchase at the United Way office. All proceeds benefit the Lake Martin Area United Way. Call 256-329-3600 or email admin@unitedwaylakemartin.org for additional information.

Season-Long Events Ladies’ Book Club

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

Antique Car Cruise-in

On the first Saturday of each month, car enthusiasts cruise into Arby’s parking lot on Highway 280 in Alexander City from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Join the fun and enjoy an era of classic cars and classic music.

Charity Bingo

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

Amateur Radio Club

The Lake Martin Area Amateur Radio Club meets the second Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the terminal building at the Thomas C. Russell Field Airport (Alexander City Airport) with dinner and fellowship following at a local area restaurant. For more information, contact Michael Courtney at 256-825-7766 or Mike Smith at 256-750-5710.

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Nature Tours

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

Music at The Equality Performing Arts Center

The Equality Performing Arts Center hosts music and other events on the second and fourth Friday nights of each month at 6:30 p.m. on Alabama Hwy. 9 in Equality. Country/Western, bluegrass, Southern gospel and instrumental music featured. For more information, contact Wayne Glenn at 334-541-3302.

Yoga on the Green

Discover your inner being with free yoga at the Town Green at Russell Crossroads at 7 a.m. Saturday mornings through Oct. 1. Great for beginners and experienced; just bring a mat and water bottle.

Free Driving and Docking Clinics

Blue Creek Marina will host free clinics to teach driving and docking a boat. Registration is required, and clinics run from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Snacks and bottled water are provided. Bring your own lunch. Space is limited, so call Jennifer or Nicole at 256-825-8888 to reserve your spot. The towboat clinics is

LAKE REGION EVENTS scheduled for Sept. 18, and the sterndrive clinic date is Sept. 25.

MainStreet Farmers Market

Set up to run every Saturday through October, this event will offer fresh-picked local produce, along with homemade goods, such as jams, soaps and honey. There will be roughly 20 vendors each week from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., located on Lee St. in Alexander City, next to the First Baptist Church Family Life Center.

servers, audio/video adapters, laptop chargers, cable boxes, nickel cadmium or lithium ion batteries and flat screen monitors and televisions. CRT monitors and televisions are no longer accepted. For more information, call the Alexander City Public Works Department at 256409-2020.

Memory Makers Quilt Guild

Meets the second and fourth Mondays at the Senior Center on the Charles E. Bailey Sportplex campus. Participants come and go between 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. with a business meeting at 5 p.m., followed by showand-tell. Bring sewing projects, machines and questions.

Electronics Recycling

The City of Alexander City Public Works Department hosts an electronics recycling event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month. Items accepted include computers, computer mouse, keyboards, modems or routers, CD and DVD players, power supplies, PC mix systems, home or cell phones, printers or copiers, mainframe

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9

Goldville 280

Goodwater To Sylacauga

Legend

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY

63

New Site

Public Boat Ramps 22

280

Churches

Camps & Parks

Timbergut Landing

9

Power lines

23

280

22

U.S. Highways

Alexander City

County Roads

16

22

Flint Hill Church

27

Camp ASCCA

Alex City Boat Ramp

14

Rockford

3

49

128

22

COOSA COUNTY

Wind Creek 63 State Park

Piney Woods Landing

Jacksons Gap

Pleasant Grove Church

35

11

9

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

259

Bethel Church

D.A.R.E. Park Landing

5

25 57

24

4 Camp Kiwanis

Church of the Living Waters

The Ridge

12 1

Church in The Pines

Children’s Harbor

Trillium

The Amp

Ko

wa

2

lig

Union Landing

aB

26 34

80

11

Camp Alamisco

Kowaliga Boat Landing 55

Pleasant Ridge Church

34

8 63 21 9

Equality

9

20

10

Smith Landing

28

Willow Point

Seman

Dadev

280

Liberty Church

20

231

Horsesh Nation

Jaybird Landing

ay

7

31

Red Ridge United 49 Methodist Church

Stillwaters

24 8

29 30

Walnut Hill

33

Union

90

Lake Martin 18 Baptist Church 19

50

Central

Red Hill

17 63

Union Church

Refuge Church 229

49

Eclectic

13

Santuck

Kent Reeltown

231

14

ELMORE COUNTY

120

14

32 14

Lake Martin Region Wetumpka

44 Lake Martin Living

Tallassee 229

MACO COUNT

Marinas

Daviston

1 Kowaliga Marina 334-857-2111 255 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 2 The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300 450 Ridge Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

22

33. River North Marina 256-397-1500 250 River North Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 4 Real Island Marina 334-857-2741 2700 Real Island Rd., Equality, AL 36026 5 Smith Marina 256-444-8793 smithmarinaonlakemartin@yahoo.com 6 Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888 7280 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 7 Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550 486 Parker Creek Marina Rd., Equality, AL 36026

hoe Bend nal Park

23 McDaniels Storage Center 256-234-4583 1040 Highway 280, Alex City, AL 35010 24 Aronov Realty Lake Martin 256-825-4133 6928 AL-49 S Stillwaters Hwy, Dadeville, AL 36853 25 Centry 21 Lake Area Realty 256-825-4800 440 N Broadnax St., Dadeville, AL 36853 26 Nail's Convenient Store 334-857-3454 8394 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 27 Foshee What's, LLC 256-234-3298 2802 Dadeville Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 28 Shipwreck Sam's Yogurt@ Smith's Marina 256-444-8793

Restaurants

CHAMBERS COUNTY

ville

ON TY

22 Dark Insurance 256-234-5026 www.darkinsuranceagency.com 410 Hillabee Street, Alex City, AL 35010

8

SpringHouse 256-215-7080 12 Benson Mill Rd., Alex City, AL 35010

9 Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070 17 Russell Farms Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 Homeplate Cafe 10 256-825-0583 191 East South St., Dadeville, AL 36853

50

Camp Hill

11 Oskar's Cafe 6684 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 12 Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035 295 Kowaliga Marina Rd., Alex City, AL 35010 13 Bezlo's Cafe 334-639-0003 65 Main Street., Eclectic, AL 36024

280

Waverly

Business & Shopping 14 Karen Channell State Farm Financial Services 256-234-3481 5030 Hwy. 280, Alex City, Al 35010

50

15 Hodges Vineyards and Winery 256-896-4036 230 Lee Rd. 71, Camp Hill, AL 36850

15

16 Russell Do It Center (Alex City) 256-234-2567 1750 Alabama 22, Alex City, AL 35010

LEE COUNTY

17 Russell Do It Center (Eclectic) 334-541-2132 1969 Kowaliga Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 18 Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853

Loachapoka

Hotels & Lodges 29 Creekside Lodge 256-307-1440 6993 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853 30 Creekside Event Center 256-307-1441 7051 Hwy 49 S., Dadeville, AL 36853

Churches 31 Red Ridge United Methodist Church 256-825-9820 8091 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853 32 Episcopal Church of the Epiphany 334-252-8618 2602 Gilmer Avenue, Tallassee, AL 36078 33 Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-373-3293 8352 Highway 50, Dadeville, AL 36853

Dock Builders 34 Lake Martin Dock Company, Inc Marine Contractor License #49146 334-857-2443 180 Birmingham Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 35 Docks Unlimited LLC 256-203-8400 6400 Highway 63 S., Alex City, AL 35010

Recreation 36 Dixie Sailing Club 767 New Hope Church Road Alexander City, Al 35010

19 EastLake Coffee @ Lakeside Mercantile 334-850-6357 8246 County Rd. 34, Dadeville, AL 36853

14

20 Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256 350 Fulton Street, Dadeville, AL 36853 21 The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333 288 Stables Road, Alex City, AL 35010

Notasulga 85 81

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

Lake Martin Living 45

Enter the 2017 Annual Lake Martin Living Art and Photography Contest

Calling All Artists Winners featured on the cover and inside pages of our October magazine edition. Entries will be on exhibit at Alexander City’s Wine Emporium and Gallery 128. Submissions accepted in acrylics, oil, watercolor, pastels, pencil & photography. (Up to three works of art per artist accepted)

Entries must reflect life and scenes in Tallapoosa County. All entries must be framed, matted or mounted on boards and ready to hang. A panel of local artists will judge the entries. There is no fee to enter, and no prizes or monetary awards will be made. The contest is just for fun! Clearly mark each entry with the artist’s name, address and telephone number and deliver entries to the office of Lake Martin Living magazine on or before 5 pm September 22. The office is located at 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, across from Benjamin Russell High School. Please call managing editor Betsy Iler at 256-234-4281 with questions or email editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

Now accepting submissions through September 22, 2017. “Koi Pond at Lake Martin” by Debra Griffith 46 Lake Martin Living

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

SEE ME FOR INSURANCE

Harold Cochran 256.234.2700 haroldcochran.b2cn@statefarm.com

Lighting the Way for the Lake & River Region for more than 125 Years

To subscribe call Linda Ewing 256-234-4281 P.O. Box 999, 548 Cherokee Road, Alexander City, AL 35010

Lake Martin Living 47

DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE OF LAKE MARTIN LIVING! Subscribe today or visit one of our local establishments each month for a free copy. 385 East LaFayette Street Dadeville, AL 36853 (256) 825-9244

Only Minutes from Lake Martin and Alex City!

All Private Suites with Private Bathroom & Shower

New Gym for Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy

In-House Nurse Practitioner & 40” Flat Screen TV’s

ALEXANDER CITY

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

PM16_DadeRehabHalfPg_Mag3.indd 1

5/18/16 3:58 PM

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

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart Real Island Marina Southern Star

INVERNESS

Airwalk Ultimate Trampoline Area Tree Top Family Adventure Winn-Dixie

KELLYTON

Five Star Plantation

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Whole Foods Market

RED HILL Citgo

SYLACAUGA

Good Ole Boys BBQ

TALLASSEE

The Ditsy Daisy Boutique Winn-Dixie

Community Hospital Chamber of Commerce The Tallassee Tribune

CHILDERSBURG

WALNUT HILL

DADEVILLE

48 Lake Martin Living

ECLECTIC

CHELSEA

Winn-Dixie

We Touch the Lives of the People You Love

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

American Watersports Bay Pine Marina City Hall Chamber of Commerce Chuck's Marina

Lakeside Mercantile Walnut Hill Grocery

WETUMPKA

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

AD INDEX A&M Plumbing................................................................................................................. 6

Lake Martin Community Hospital.............................................................................. 3

Advanced Heat & Air.....................................................................................................2 7

Lake Martin Dock....................................................................................................17, 47

Alabama Power...............................................................................................................1 1

Mark King's Furniture ...................................................................................................1 5

Armstrong-Holley Plumbing......................................................................................4 9

Millstone Nursery............................................................................................................ 6

Bezlo's Cafe......................................................................................................................... 8

OBGYN Associates of Montgomery........................................................................... 8

Black Jack Gardens........................................................................................................4 3

Prime Management.......................................................................................................4 8

Bob Alexander Landscaping ....................................................................................... 5

Radney Funeral Home..................................................................................................1 9

Brown Nursing & Rehabilitation.............................................................................. 43

Red Flag Pest Control...................................................................................................... 6

C&C Wood Products......................................................................................................2 7

River Region Dermatology.........................................................................................4 7

Cahaba Glass................................................................................................................... 19

Russell Lands....................................................................................................................5 1

DAVCO Development...................................................................................................4 7

Russell Medical................................................................................................................5 2

Designs by Trish............................................................................................................... 6

Satterfield, Inc.................................................................................................................. 5

Farm Tables of the South.............................................................................................2 7

Southern Sash.................................................................................................................2 7

George Hardy, D.M.D..................................................................................................... 6

Sparkle Window Cleaning Services........................................................................... 2

Guy's Heating & Air........................................................................................................4 7

Sunrise Docks..................................................................................................................1 9

Harold Cochran, State Farm Insurance............................................................................ 4 7

Tallassee Community Hospital..................................................................................1 0

Jackson Thornton......................................................................................................... 1 0

Troy Cable........................................................................................................................... 8

Karen Channell, State Farm Insurance....................................................................4 7

Truckworx............................................................................................................................ 5

Kelley’s Heating & Air....................................................................................................4 7

UAB Heart & Vascular....................................................................................................3 1

ARMSTRONG-HOLLEY

PLUMBING

We Specialize in commercial & reSidential plumbing!

256-392-3809 OFFICE 256-794-0777 CELL Lake Martin Living 49

TENNIS

The best sport I will never be good at

M

ay 9, 1994, Sports Illustrated (SI) history has taught me anything, it’s that published a cover that read “Is I am influenced by TV). Soaking in the Tennis Dying?” second round of the French Open doesn’t I remember seeing the headline and exactly inspire America’s youth to find the thinking, “I dunno. Maybe. Who gives a nearest square patch of clay and work on rip? I don’t play tennis. Where’s my beer?” groundstrokes. Unless it is Federer taking (I had turned 21 not long before that). on Nadal for a major title, does anyone That issue of SI was probably onto really have an interest? something though – at least, at the time. Watching two guys with seven ‘j’s and Tennis had recently traded the loud mouth four ‘k’s in each of their names flailing rivalries of John McEnroe and Jimmy around the All England Club sounds about Connors for the much more sedate (almost as fun as … (thinking) … well, watching soothing) matches of Pete Sampras and two guys with a lot of ‘j’s and ‘k’s playing Todd Martin. tennis; there is literally nothing worse. Yikes! I almost fell asleep just typing Without two big names in a big Luke Robinson ‘Todd Martin.’ tournament, tennis on television is like Well, here we are – more than 20 years listening to chess on the radio. It doesn’t later – and what do you know? Tennis ain’t dead, and I translate very well. have actually started playing. Someone get the band to I also didn’t know a ton about tennis. I knew how play Whoddathunkit. to keep score, and that it is best not to buy your racket I am not that good, mind you, but after tearing my from the local drug store but not much else. I certainly Achilles tendon years ago, I am just happy to be doing wasn’t well versed enough to get into a ‘Wilson versus something that makes me sweat besides my taxes. Penn’ debate. Even though tennis wasn’t my first (or second But a funny thing happened while volleying that or third) love, much of my family has played, so I fuzzy green ball on that cracked concrete at the didn’t go into this activity completely blind. I just Central Alabama Community College court: I started considered it a relatively slow sport compared to the liking it. A lot. more traditional team sports I had played when I was Oh, I am still not good. I doubt I ever will be. younger. When your signature move is to rush the net in some Most of the thanks for my interest in this athletic misguided hope that your spastic lankiness will endeavor go to my bride, Krista. I had always been intimidate your opponent into a nervous miss-hit, it is a basketball guy, but once I turned about 35 years easy to see why you keep falling victim to well placed old, my hoop dreams dropped like the fat under my drop-shots. In short: I usually get the crap beat out of chin. By the time I was 38, I am quite sure, Stephen me. Hawking could have beaten me one-on-one. My improvement is irrelevant; however, I just As I was getting too old for basketball and am too know I am more excited than Catherine the Great young to walk the upper level of the Galleria, where at the Kentucky Derby whenever Krista and I have could I turn for exercise? My golf swing makes an opportunity to play now. (Google “Catherine the Charles Barkley cringe. Football only works for me Great/ horse” if you have to). in the occasional ‘flag’ variety, and my head is too So to you, 1994’s Sports Illustrated, I say tennis is big for one of those weirdo bicycler’s helmets. I was most certainly not dead! It’s not even wearing a Life quickly running out of options. Alert bracelet yet! In fact, I could see tennis making a I desperately needed some way to boot-cut-jeans level comeback. stay active because if Krista left For example, just the other day while we were me, I needed the stamina to playing, I saw two pre-teen boys in a very spirited chase her. Enter tennis, match. It warmed my heart to know the sport will live which was her sport in high on in yet another generation. school. Surprisingly, I Then I heard one kid brag to the other after winning fell for the sport pretty a point, “Ha! 50-nothin’, baby!” quickly. Well, at least they are playing. I say ‘surprisingly’ because tennis is ~ Luke Robinson is an Alexander City native who also still pretty boring writes a weekly column for the Alexander City Outlook. on TV (and if 50 Lake Martin Living

The Last Word

Life is Better at The Ridge.

The Ridge is where lake and life truly meet. Whether you’re looking for a new getaway in the most pristine homes and homesites available in South Ridge Harbor, a rustic-modern design in Russell Cabins, or a classic farmhouse-style home in Ridge Run, The Ridge offers all this and more. The Ridge residents have access to an array of amenities, including The Ridge Marina, Beach Park, and The Ridge Club, a 10-acre recreation complex with tennis, cente swimming, and children’s play park. fitness center,

Russell Cabins

Ridge Run

South Ridge Harbor

Homes & Homesites Available RUSSELLLANDSONLAKEMARTIN.COM |

256.215.7011

| LAKE MARTIN, ALABAMA Lake Martin Living 51

52 Lake Martin Living