Lake Magazine February 2026

Letter from the Editor

While the breathtaking sunsets and scenic shorelines may be enough for many to fall in love with Lake Martin, it is a special moment when others fall in love at Lake Martin.

In this year’s Bridal Issue, we share two heartwarming stories across generations of young love that have unfolded on the banks of the lake. On page 56, meet Larry and Joanne Fralic, a couple who were childhood sweethearts and recently celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary. Even more unique, the couple’s paths first crossed while the Martin Dam was being constructed – a historic milestone that brought these two together for a lifetime of laughter, devotion and love.

Then on page 24, meet Macie Griffith and Grant Hall, a Tallassee couple whose lives have been intertwined with Lake Martin since childhood. After Hall surprised Griffith with the proposal of a lifetime near Children’s Harbor, the two knew Lake Martin was the only place they wanted to say, “I do.”

Their love story also launches our Lake Martin wedding series, featuring six couples who celebrated their big day at the lake, with each wedding as unique as their story behind it.

Then turn to page 60, where a Birmingham couple came to Kowaliga for lunch and left with a boat, sparking their unexpected journey and love for Lake Martin that led them to build their dream lake retreat.

On page 20, a chance discovery along the lake’s shoreline unfolds into a powerful story of kindness, as one man finds a long-lost wallet and sets off on a heartfelt search for its owner.

And finally, the Lake Martin community is preparing for a yearlong celebration marking the 100th anniversary of Martin Dam’s completion. Turn to page 76 for a look at the centennial events ahead, from dragon boat races to community festivals, all honoring a century of history, memories and legacy of the lake.

From cherished beginnings to milestone celebrations, Lake Martin continues to be the backdrop for generations of stories that last a lifetime.

Shaylee Beck Moore, Editor-in-Chief

Staff

Chairman

KENNETH BOONE editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

General Manager

TIPPY HUNTER tippy.hunter@alexcityoutlook.com

Editor-in-Chief

SHAYLEE BECK MOORE editor@lakemartinmagazine.com

Art Director

AUDRA SPEARS audra.spears@alexcityoutlook.com

Business & Digital Development Director

ANGELA MULLINS angela.mullins@alexcityoutlook.com

Audience Development

BAILY TERRY baily.terry@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing RENEE TRICE renee.trice@alexcityoutlook.com

SAMANTHA HIMES sam.himes@alexcityoutlook.com

ERIN VICKERS erin.vickers@alexcityoutlook.com

ABBIE CLAYTON abbie.clayton@alexcityoutlook.com

Contributors

KENNETH BOONE

JULIE HUDSON

GREG VINSON

PETE MCKENNY

JOE BOBBA

AUDRA SPEARS

SAM VISE

LIZI ARBOGAST

SAMUEL HIGGS

CLIFF WILLIAMS

GWEN BISHOP

SARAH CHASE

ANA SOFIA MEYER PRIME STEAKHOUSE

On the Cover

Megan Harris and Andrew Lyle set sail into forever. From a romantic departure on a vintage Chris-Craft boat to a soulful ceremony at Church in the Pines their wedding was a tribute to the place they call home.

Photo by Kristen Pugh Photography.

All content, including all stories and photos are copyright of: Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc. Box 999, Alexander City, AL 35011 256-234-4281 | lakemagazine.life

Subscriptions are $75 annually

20. A MIRACLE AT LAKE MARTIN

A Lake Martin man finds a wallet buried along the shoreline, unfolding a heartwarming journey to find its owner.

THE ANNUAL LAKE MARTIN BRIDAL ISSUE

Lake Martin provides a breathtaking backdrop and inspiration for hundreds of weddings and love stories each year. Our featured couples share their vision behind saying “I do.”

24. Macie Griffith & Grant Hall

28. Jordan Chapman & Chase Humber

34. Megan Harris & Andrew Lyle

40. Grace Kilgore & Coleman Pethel

46. Megan Armstrong & Collin Sharpe

50. Lindsey Price & Alex Acreman

56. LOVE EVERLASTING

Lake Martin childhood sweethearts share their journey of devotion, love and wisdom as they celebrate seven decades of marriage.

60. IT BEGAN WITH A BOAT

One Birmingham couple builds their dream house at Lake Martin after making an unexpected purchase.

76. 100-YEAR EVENT CELEBRATIONS

Lake Martin is gearing up for a yearlong celebration of centennial-themed events.

LAKE MAGAZINE’S MONTHLY FEATURES:

Lake’s Quick Guide to the Lake

Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators

Unforgettable Places to Get Engaged at Lake Martin

From stunning sunsets to sweeping waterfront views, Lake Martin offers countless picture-perfect settings for a romantic proposal.

From the Top of a Fire Tower

Some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Martin can be found at the top the historic fire lookout towers at Smith Mountain and Overlook Drive. Rising roughly 100 feet above the landscape, both towers offer 360-degree panoramic views of the lake and surrounding countryside, making them an adventurous and unforgettable place to say “yes.” Just be sure to hold on to the ring tight – it’s a long way down.

Overlook Park at Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail

Located near Martin Dam, this location is known for its scenic hiking trails and iconic views of Lake Martin. Whether planned as a quiet picnic or the finale to a scenic hike with Chimney Rock in the distance, Overlook Park offers a classic Lake Martin setting for a proposal.

Wind Creek State Park

offers limitless opportunities to pop the question. Whether renting a pontoon, hiking the trails or climbing the historical silo, end your day with a sunset, crackling bonfire and diamond ring on Lake Martin’s shorelines.

A Romantic Horseback Ride

A horseback ride through the rolling terrain of Wind Creek State Park or at The Stables at Russell Crossroads offers a peaceful and memorable way to pop the question. For couples already dreaming ahead, getting married at the same place you said yes is a meaningful touch for your wedding day.

Fireworks on the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July Fireworks and Concert at The AMP is one of Lake Martin’s signature summer events. Whether viewed from a boat on the water or from the grassy hillside with a blanket under the stars, the show provides an unforgettable backdrop for a romantic evening. As fireworks crescendo and light up the night sky, pop the question during this dazzling moment for an unforgettable memory.

For couples who love the outdoors, Wind Creek State Park

Weather Outlook for February

February 2026 Forecast

Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the low 60s with average lows in the mid 30s and about 5.49 inches of precipitation in the month of February. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be slightly higher than average and rainfall will be slightly below normal this month.

Year-to-Date

Precipitation:

Our Normal February Precipitation: 5.49 inches

Summer: 491 MSL

Winter: 481 MSL

Highest: 484.50

Lowest: 483.79

Lake depth is measured in reference to mean sea level. For up-to-date water levels at the lake, visit lakes.alabamapower.com.

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

READER SUBMISSIONS

(1) Carolina cools off with a dip on the shores of Lake Martin with her dog, Bandit. Photo submitted by Carol Lee. (2) Going under the River Bridge. (3) Johnny Spears shows off his catch while his dad, Nicky, gives a thumbs up. (4) The sky lit up in a brilliant display of color over Lake Martin near Pace's Point. Photo captured by Tony Johnson. (5) Riker Lewis being a good boy at The Landing at Harbor Pointe. Photo by Tom and Katherine Lewis. (6) A beautiful day on the lake with the train tressel in the background. (7) Bonnie Bea loves feeling the wind in her hair during a Lake Martin boat ride. Photo by Sara Amonette.

READER SUBMISSIONS

From top left: (1) A family lake home circa 1950, fondly referred to as "The Hut." Photo submitted by Bart Jones. (2) A rare Lake Martin snow had these two bundled up at Bear Bryant Point. Photo submitted by Rich Bradshaw. (3) Three generations enjoying a summer day at the lake near Sandy Creek circa 1965, photo submitted by Cindy Bailey. (4) Lucille Hendricks loved to fish off of the family lake house pier in Holiday Shores, built in the 1950s. Photo submitted by Kelley Griffith. (5) Poor Ol' Kowaliga circa 1962. Photo submitted by Cynthia Culver Smith. (6) Families enjoying a summer day at Bama Park circa 1962. Photo submitted by Cynthia Culver Smith. As Lake Martin celebrates 100 years, we would love to see snapshots of your favorite family photos, cabins and Lake Martin memories. Send your old photos to Shaylee at editor@lakemartinmagazine.com or send them to the Lake Magazine Facebook page.

February 6

Black History Month Movie Night

Join Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. for a special Black History Month fundraiser screening of “42,” the powerful story of Jackie Robinson’s courage, leadership and perseverance. Held at the Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center at 6:30 p.m., all proceeds from the event will benefit the Tallassee High School soccer team. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Concessions will be available. To purchase tickets, visit mtvernonpac.com.

February 7

Lake Martin Bama Club Watch Party

Join the Lake Martin Bama Club for a watch party at Lake Martin Pizza Co. on Highway 63 as the Alabama Crimson Tide basketball team faces off against the Auburn Tigers. Tip-off is at 3 p.m., watch party starts at 2:30 p.m. Be sure to arrive early to be served before gametime.

February 7

Galentine’s Brunch

Galentine’s is coming early to Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe in Dadeville. Celebrate the season of love with brunch charcuterie, wine tastings, raffles and girl time from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets are $35. Visit the shop or call 256-269-0104 to purchase tickets.

February 7

Famer Marty Brown. The show starts at 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online for $15 or $20 at the door. Children get in free when accompanied by an adult. Visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com/tickets-reservations to purchase tickets.

February

7

Popovich Comedy Pet Theater

Get ready for a paws-itively hilarious afternoon at the Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center. Starting at 4 p.m., join Gregory Popovich and his troupe of more than 25 rescue pets – including cats, dogs, parrots and more – for a family-friendly performance filled with comedy, juggling and heartwarming fun. Visit simpletix.com/e/ popovich-comedypet-theatertickets-243668 to purchase tickets.

The Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series returns to Lake Martin February 12-15

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN

Wind Creek Bass Trail No. 5

OGS Tournaments will host Wind Creek Bass Trail No. 5 at Wind Creek State Park. Registration begins at 4 a.m. in the marina store. Cost is $120 per boat, $10 for a big fish pot, $10 for a big spot side pot and $10 for an Average Joe Pot (all voluntary). $150 for all. Registration can be made with cash or check the morning of the tournament or online at ogstournaments.org.

February 7

Marty Brown “I’m Country and I Like it That Way”

The Dadeville Performing Arts Center invites the community to a one night only performance by Grand Ole Opry Performer and Kentucky Music Hall of

February 7 & 21

Pup-Along

Hike

Bring your furry friend and enjoy the great outdoors at Wind Creek State Park. Starting at noon, attendees will embark on a scenic loop around the Campfire Trail. All dogs must be leashed, and owners are encouraged to bring water and treats for their four-legged friends. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors. For more details, contact the park at 256-329-0845.

February 12

Inaugural Wine Pairing

Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe invites the community to a wine pairing at Prime Steakhouse in Dadeville. Executive Chef Brian Cosby has prepared a menu to pair perfectly with a thoughtfully curated selection of premium wines from Lucky Flight’s cellar, showcasing bold flavors, elegant balance and unforgettable pairings for an exceptional evening of food and wine. Tickets are $100 and are available at Lucky Flight, or contact Prime at 256-307-3967 or 256-496-2339 before February 5 to reserve a spot.

February 12-15

Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series

Experience elite-level bass fishing on the sparkling

waters of Lake Martin as the 2026 Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series makes its return to Alabama. Top professional anglers will compete over four days in this premier tournament stop, with daily take-offs and weigh-ins at Wind Creek State Park. Fans can also enjoy a free, family-friendly weekend expo featuring sponsor booths, boat and gear demos, giveaways and more. For details, visit bassmaster.com.

February 13

Fur Ball

Get ready for a night of elegance and puppy love at the second annual Fur Ball benefiting Lake Martin Animal Rescue. Held at The Mitchell House at 6 p.m., this special event is the purr-fect way to celebrate Valentine’s season while supporting local furry friends in need. Ticket packages include a steak dinner catered by Scott Blake. Evening attire is recommended. For more details or to purchase tickets, contact Rhonda Gaskins at 256-749-3644 or Jennie Zinn at 334-3806250.

February 14

Galentine’s Day Sip & Mold

Grab your gals and enjoy a fun evening of sipping and molding clay at One Oak Pottery Studio in Dadeville. From 10 a.m. to noon, celebrate friendship and creativity as you create a one-of-a-kind ceramic piece. No experience required. All materials and instructions are provided. Visit oneoakpottery.com to reserve a spot.

February 14

The Sweet Young’Uns

Celebrate six decades of harmony, heart and unforgettable music as The Sweet Young’Uns mark their 60th anniversary with a joyful Final Concert Celebration at the Mount Vernon Performing Arts Center. Starting at 6:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy a Valentine’s night out filled with music and memories as this beloved group takes a well-earned bow. Visit mtvernonpac.com or call the box office at 334-812-5554 to purchase tickets.

February 20

Urban Hollow

Join the Dadeville Performing Arts Center as it welcomes Urban Hollow – a musical trio that blends bluegrass, folk, country and rock into a sound that’s all their own. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. Contact office@ dadevilleperformingartscenter.com for more details.

February 22

Lake Martin Wedding & Event Expo

Get ready to plan your perfect celebration with the 7th annual Lake Martin Wedding & Event Expo at the Mitchell House. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., attendees can meet local vendors and browse a variety of venues

perfect for a wedding, reunion or corporate event. Parking will be at the nearby First Baptist Church of Dadeville. General admission is $10 per person at the door or online at unitedwaylakemartin.org/weddingexpo-attendees. For more information, contact the United Way office at 256-329-3600 or courtney. layfield@unitedwaylakemartin.org.

February 21

Kiwanis Club Pancake Day

The Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Kiwanis Club invites the community to an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Dadeville Elementary School cafeteria. Tickets are $8 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Kiwanis Club Facebook page.

February 21

Community Through Song

Get ready to make some music with the Dadeville Community Chorus. Held at the Dadeville Performing Arts Center from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., this workshop will allow guests to learn new pieces and hone their skills with presenter John Flanery, former director of choral activities at New Mexico State University. RSVP to Diane Miller at dmiller5000@hotmail.com to reserve a spot.

February

24

Ultimate Elvis!

Experience the magic of the King of Rock and Roll. Presented by Alex City Arts, this high-energy evening will take place at The Mill Two Eighty from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Guests can enjoy a barbecue dinner and a cash bar as they sing, dance and relive the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll. For more information, visit alexcityarts.org or find Alex City Arts on Facebook.

February

28

Russell Forest Run

Join Russell Lands for the 17th annual Russell Forest Run at Russell Crossroads. Through the support of local sponsors and hundreds of yearly runners, this race has raised nearly $152,000 for the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. The starting line will be near the Town Green, and the finish line will be near The Stables, home of the post-race party and World Famous Grits Bar. The 10K will begin at 7:45 a.m., and the 5K will begin at 7:55 a.m. Visit russellforestrun.com for more information or to register.

March 1

Plug Day Party

Celebrate the start of spring on Lake Martin with Martin’s at Lake Martin. This no-cover event will feature live music by Blane Rudd and a Plug

Day giveaway with rubber ducks that hide fun prizes. Attendees must purchase a drink to receive a ticket and can pick one duck for a chance to win. Doors open at noon. For more details, visit the Martin’s at Lake Martin Facebook page.

Season-long Events

Naturalist Presentations and Guided Tours

Come see Naturalist Marianne and her lively nature presentations at the Naturalist Cabin at Russell Crossroads. There is never a dull moment with this wildlife biologist as she educates on the beauty of nature. Visit russelllands.com/events for the scheduled subject topics, dates and times.

Volunteer Story Time at Mamie’s Place

Volunteer Story Time returns to Mamie’s Place Children’s Library for the spring. Join library staff Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m. as friendly community volunteers share stories, smiles and a love of reading with little listeners. Email theresa. holley@alexandercityal.gov or kathrine.ficquette@ alexandercityal.gov to volunteer, or call the library at 256-409-7015.

Line Dancing Lessons

Join Martin’s at Lake Martin on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. for line dancing lessons with 10-time world champion dancer Marnie Mattei. Lessons are $10 per person for one hour. No partner needed, all skill levels are welcome. For more details, visit the Martin’s at Lake Martin Facebook page.

Nature Trivia Night at Wind Creek State Park

Join Wind Creek State Park on the first and third Friday of each month for Nature Trivia Night. Trivia lovers can test their knowledge on wildlife, plants and conservation from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the clubhouse. This event is a great opportunity to learn something new while enjoying a little friendly competition. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors. For details, email dylan.ogle@dcnr.alabama.gov.

Cocktail Class

Get ready to shake things up with Vinyls Neighborhood Lounge during its cocktail making class. Held on the third Saturday of each month from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., this event teaches participants how to craft delicious cocktails for $35 a person. Each participant receives a recipe sheet to take home.

Lake Martin News

Annual Polar Plunge returns to Lake Martin

With the weather on January 17 at a balmy 54 degrees, nearly 100 people thought it was a good idea to take a swim.

The Lake Martin Young Professionals hosted its annual Polar Plunge at Kowaliga Restaurant, and according to LMYP president Jaden Tuck, they had a great turnout.

“I think everybody enjoyed it,” Tuck said. “We added two new food trucks this year, and they got good reviews. We had hot cocoa and the Kona Ice truck in case you wanted snowballs.”

Alexander City’s Chick-fil-A was on hand with not only food, but representatives decked out in chicken costumes, handing out mini-chickens to attendees who were too “chicken” to plunge into the nearly 50 degree water.

Tuck said the location was perfect for the event too.

“Kowaliga Restaurant was great,” he said. “The manager, Stacey Jones, is great.”

Tuck said although the funds raised from the plunge go to help Lake Martin Resource Association, having the event at Kowaliga Restaurant helps the business during its off season.

Tuck said the money raised from the Polar Plunge helps LMRA, especially with the buoys.

“All the proceeds from T-shirt and ticket sales help LMRA keep the lake safe and clean,” he said.

The lighted buoys can cost about $500 and the nonlighted are $300, Tuck said. The plunge fundraiser also helps defray the costs of new buoys.

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce president Steve Robinson said it’s always nice to see such a good turnout for the Polar Plunge.

“It’s good to see the nucleus group that always comes and new people as well,” Robinson said. “I think they understand what LMRA does for the lake.”

Robinson has plunged himself since the plunge began 10 years ago, except the second year.

“I was out of town and my son came and plunged in my place” he said. “It was 84 degrees.”

While Robinson’s son got lucky that year, he generally brings his children and they plunge as well.

“My grandson plunged four years ago and the girls have for the last three years,” Robinson said.

The 2026 plunge saw about 80 plungers, plus more than 90 dockers, Tuck said.

“It’s worth it to them,” he said. “They can give back to the organization that helps keep the lake safe.

Participants could also win Dash for the Cash. Plungers swim to a nearby buoy and the first to arrive wins $100. Many group plungers came dressed in costumes and were eligible for a $100 first place prize.

Gwen Bishop

James Spann visits Alexander City

A three-hour book signing on January 17 kept Alana’s Place filled.

State and nationally renowned weatherman James Spann visited Alexander City last month with Alana’s Place hosting the event.

At exactly 9:30 a.m., when the event began, the line to meet Spann never slowed down.

Local Lawson Hodge, 10, jokingly said he was dragged out to meet the famous weatherman, and he would rather be playing video games on Saturday morning.

Seven-year-old Bear French brought Spann a drawing he did of a tornado.

The Reaves family came out to meet Spann because mom Sherry said the entire family “loves James Spann.”

The highlight of the day was a visit from a survivor of the 2019 tornado in Wetumpka.

Wetumpka resident Stormy Day Forrester found out weatherman James Spann was going to be in Alexander City, and she knew she had to meet him.

“I knew this would be the perfect time to meet him and let him know what he means to me,” Forrester said.

Because Forrester had followed Spann on Facebook for

years, she had become well versed in what to do in case of bad weather.

“That education became very real for my family and me on January 19, 2019, when an EF-2 tornado hit Wetumpka,” she wrote in a letter to him.

Forrester not only wrote a letter to Spann thanking him for what he does, but she also wanted to give him a gift.

“I was trying to think of what would be a meaningful gift,” she said. “Since I’m an artist, I thought a painting would be appropriate.”

Forrester said she found the celebrity weatherman to be genuine and authentic.

“He seemed to have a genuine interest in my story,” she said. “It was satisfying to know he was touched by my gift.”

Forrester’s one-page letter to Spann included what happened on January 19.

“That day, my husband and I were driving home after grocery shopping,” Forrester’s letter stated. “The weather was awful and our phones alerted us to a tornado warning in our area. My husband wanted to hurry home since we were only about 10 minutes away and he was worried about the groceries.”

She said she convinced him to pull over immediately and find a building to seek shelter in.

“We took shelter in the nearest place we could find, which was Taco Bell,” Forrester wrote. “Not long after, the storm passed and we drove home to discover that less than a mile from where we had been driving, the tornado had carved a destructive path.”

Forrester said she videoed the drive home and saw where the tornado went across the road they would have traveled earlier to get home.

“There is no doubt in my mind it would have been bad if we had continued home,” she said.

Forrester also included in her letter to Spann, she believes he saved their lives.

“I wanted you to know that your work made a real difference for my family that day,” the letter read. “You did not just educate us about the weather. You helped keep us safe.”

Gwen Bishop

A Miracle at Lake Martin

STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE & PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAGE MCGUIRE

While finding small treasures along the shoreline can be exciting, it’s not often that a true miracle washes up onto the banks of Lake Martin.

Clinton McGuire, known as CJ, is a popular local resident in the area, often found fishing around Lake Martin and visiting with neighbors up and down Old Susanna. After suffering a traumatic brain injury as a child while four-wheeling at a friend’s house, CJ was lucky to survive; however, now at the age of 30, he still relies heavily on his mother, Page McGuire, for assistance in his day-to-day life.

While he has a close relationship with Page, CJ also often stays with his 90-year-old grandmother in the Sandy Creek area on the lake, helping keep her company and look after her overnight.

Every day, CJ uses his visits with his grandmother as an opportunity to walk the shorelines of the lake, taking in the peaceful serenity of his surroundings and looking for objects that wash ashore. It was on one of these walks that CJ noticed the corner of a metal object sticking out of the sand – an item that would later become one of his most memorable and cherished finds.

“I had seen it a couple days before,” CJ said. “But I didn’t pick it up because there was only one corner of it sticking up. I thought it was a bottle cap – I thought nothing of it.”

Day after day, CJ continued his daily walks, repeatedly passing by the mysterious object. Curiosity finally got the better of him one fall morning, and he began digging it out of the sand.

Much to his surprise, he discovered it was a metal wallet buried beneath the shoreline’s surface.

CJ took the wallet up to his grandmother’s house to wash it off. The metal had been caked in years of layered dirt, making it difficult to open. When he finally was able to pry it apart, he knew he had discovered something important.

While there was no driver’s license inside, CJ found a debit card, military ID and concealed carry permit that belonged to a man by the name of Stephen Darnell Posey.

Though the cards had expired nearly 15 years earlier in 2012, CJ knew the wallet contained valuable personal items Stephen would want returned. He laid the individual cards out in the sun to dry out and contacted his mother to help track down the owner.

“He called me and said, ‘Mom, I’ve got somebody’s wallet. We need to figure out how to get it back to him,’” Page said. “So, I looked at the name on the

cards and started to Google him.”

With just a handful of details to guide her, Page began searching online for any information that might lead her to Stephen. During her research, Page made an unexpected discovery –Stephen’s obituary. He passed away in December 2024.

Still, it didn’t feel right to the McGuires to not return the wallet to the rightful family. Page continued digging and learned from the obituary that Stephen was survived by one son, George Posey.

That’s when Page turned to social media. On Facebook, she searched for anyone by that name until she found a profile photo that matched one she had seen in the obituary. The man lived in Carrollton, Georgia – about two hours away.

Page sent him a message on November 23, 2025, and patiently waited for a response, yet nothing came – until Christmas morning.

On December 25, George was sitting in his home, passing time on his phone. Having lost both of his parents close to the holidays, and recently his younger sisters, Christmas was an especially difficult time for him.

The last thing he expected that morning was what he now calls a Christmas miracle.

While scrolling through social media, George came across a simple Facebook message to him from a complete stranger.

It read, “Was Stephen your father?”

Surprised, George replied to the message, sparking an exchange with CJ and Page that he would never forget.

“She immediately responded back that her son had found my dad’s wallet, and they wanted to make sure it found its way home,” George said. “To wake up and find that message Christmas morning – it really was a blessing. It was a Christmas miracle.”

George described his father as a fun-loving man who loved to fish and, while sometimes set in his ways, had a heart of gold. Stephen married George’s mother when George was just 14 months old. He raised George as his own son and later adopted him before he turned 18, allowing George to carry the Posey last name.

“He was a mess,” George said. “But he was one hell of a dad. He chose to be my dad when he didn’t have to be, and he was the only dad I ever knew. I feel like he did a phenomenal job raising me, and I just want him to receive credit for being a great dad.”

In 2012, Stephen was living in the Lake Martin area as he beat lung cancer for the first time. Because that was also the year the cards in his wallet had expired, George believes that was the timeframe his father must have lost it.

Years later, the lung cancer returned, and on December 23, 2024, Stephen passed away at the age of 66.

Losing his father made the wallet more than just an object – it was a meaningful connection to the man he loved.

“I’m a super sentimental person, so it’ll get passed down to my daughter,” George said. “It won’t go away till I draw my last breath."

Knowing how much the wallet meant to George, Page didn’t want to leave anything to chance. Rather than mailing it across state lines to Georgia, Page and CJ decided they would personally hand deliver it to make sure the wallet reached George safely.

On January 3, the three decided to meet at a Cracker Barrel in LaGrange, Georgia – approximately the half way point between Lake Martin and Carrollton.

The meeting was filled with emotion and gratitude. As CJ handed the wallet over to George, George asked him for a simple but powerful thank you – a hug.

“It was amazing,” CJ said. “He asked me, ‘Can I get a hug?’ It felt wonderful to get the wallet back to him.”

For George, the act of kindness from CJ and his mother was one that he will never forget.

“It just about puts me in tears, really, to know that there’s still good people like them out there that have a heart and care – even for a perfect stranger like me,” George said. “It just blows my mind, because kindness is really waning in the world we live in today.”

Macie Griffith & Grant Hall

How They Met:

Born and raised in Tallassee, Griffith and Hall grew up in conjoining neighborhoods, meeting for the first time in third grade. Griffith had an immediate crush on Hall; however, it wasn’t until their senior year of high school that the two reconnected at their senior awards banquet. After taking a photo together, Hall messaged Griffith for the picture and the two have been together ever since.

Love at the Lake:

Hall surprised Griffith with the Lake Martin proposal of a lifetime. After a day of swimming together at the lake, Hall took Griffith out for an unexpected sunset cruise on the family boat. As the couple neared Children’s Harbor, Hall turned on their favorite song and got down on one knee, proposing to the love of his life as a sunset painted the skies over Lake Martin. It was the place they had their first date, and later, where they would say, “I do.”

Personal Touches:

The groom’s lemon-flavored cake was designed as a golf course, a nod to Hall’s passion for the sport. Griffith’s “something blue” was her three cousins, and on her bouquet she included her grandparents’ wedding rings in their memory.

Favorite Wedding Memory:

The couple’s first look was their favorite wedding memory. Griffith said the way her husband-to-be’s face lit up when he saw her was an intimate moment she would never forget.

Details

Venue: Overlook Farms (Dadeville)

Photographer: Kennedy Ford Photography (Wetumpka)

Entertainment: DJ Mason Music (Birmingham)

Florist: MAM Legacy Florals (Dadeville)

Caterer: Miller’s on Broadnax, Me Mamas Grub Hub (Dadeville)

Coordinator: Glass Events (Dadeville)

Bride’s Cake: Tiers of Sweetness (Wetumpka)

Groom's Cake: Vickie’s Cakes (Pike Road)

Bartender: Kathy Freeman

Bridal Dress: McClendon Bridals (Sylacauga)

Hair & Makeup: Madison Griffith

Officiant: Steve Scarborough, Refuge Baptist Church (Eclectic)

Lifelong Love at Lake Martin

STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE

PHOTOS BY KENNEDY FORD PHOTOGRAPHY

LLong before Lake Martin became the backdrop for their wedding day, it was woven into their everyday lives – shaping childhood memories, first dates and a bond the pair shared as strong as their destiny to be together.

Born and raised in Tallassee, Macie Griffith and Grant Hall, both 24, grew up in conjoining neighborhoods. One evening in third grade, the neighborhood children were playing together, and Hall joined in on the fun. That’s the first time Griffith noticed the boy that would become her future husband.

“I just remember seeing Grant and thinking he was so cute,” Griffith said. “We took him home in a golf cart that night and I thought it was so awesome.”

From that moment on, Griffith carried a childhood crush, writing their initials together with hearts on her class notebooks and even made Hall the password on her iPod.

As the years passed, the two didn’t cross paths often – until fate stepped back in during their senior year of high school. At the Senior Awards Banquet, Griffith and Hall took a photo together. Later that night, he messaged

Griffith for the picture, and the two have been inseparable ever since.

Their first official date was riding Jet Skis on Lake Martin, the place they both cherished.

Five years later, Hall surprised Griffith with the Lake Martin proposal of a lifetime – with the help of family. After a day of swimming together at the lake, Griffith’s brother joined them later that afternoon to take the family’s Jet Ski out for a ride. It wasn’t long before he called saying the Jet Ski had broken down – a carefully planned excuse to draw the couple back onto the water.

As Griffith and Hall neared the lighthouse by Children’s Harbor to “rescue” her brother, Hall turned on “A Smile” by Uncle Cracker – the song Griffith had always said would be their first dance. As the sun dipped below the horizon and a sunset illuminated the Lake Martin sky, Hall got down on one knee and asked Griffith to be his bride.

“If I could relive our proposal over and over again, I would,” Griffith said. “It was perfect.”

When it came to choosing the location for their wedding, there was never any question.

“Our first date was on the lake,” Griffith said. “We grew up going to the lake. We just love all things Lake Martin – it’s our favorite place to be. It’s where we call home. So, there was no question that we were going to get married at the lake.”

The couple married May 3, 2025, at Overlook Farms. Though storms threatened to rain on the celebration, nothing could dampen the joyous spirits of the day.

While getting ready, Griffith’s sister styled the hair and makeup for her and the bridesmaids, a meaningful touch for the bride. Mimosas and music filled the atmosphere, setting a lighthearted tone before the ceremony.

One of Griffith’s favorite design elements of their wedding were her bridesmaid dresses. Sourced from Dessy Group, the elegant, satin gowns sparked the inspiration for her wedding pallet.

“I really love blue and white,” Griffith said. “So I knew I wanted to incorporate those colors. But when I saw the pink bridesmaids dresses, I based my whole wedding around those, because I loved them so much. I’m a little jealous that I didn’t get to wear one.”

Her bouquet carried deep sentiment for Griffith.

Designed by Chris McClendon at MAM Legacy, pink and white roses were accented with blue hydrangeas –Griffith’s favorite. Her grandparents’ wedding rings were delicately threaded onto the bouquet, while seats were reserved at the ceremony in memory of both families’ grandparents.

One of the most meaningful moments came during the couple’s first look. Peace washed away the nerves of the day as the two locked eyes with their best friend.

“Just seeing his face light up when he turned around will forever be one of my favorite memories,” Griffith said. “We said private vows too at that moment, and just to hear him say how much he loves me was such a sweet memory.”

The ceremony was officiated by Steve Scarborough, the couple’s pastor at Refuge Baptist Church in Eclectic.

Because of the potential for rain showers, the reception was held indoors at Overlook Farms – a decision that the couple happily embraced.

“We did it under the pavilion, and I would do it again, because it made everything so intimate and special,” Griffith said. “I had people come up to me and say that they could tell that our wedding was just full of love.”

Supporting local vendors was important to the couple, leading them to choose Miller’s on Broadnax to cater the reception with Southern fare.

The three-tier wedding cake, while simple in design, surprised guests with its pound cake flavor – Griffith’s favorite. The groom’s cake was lemon-flavored and designed as a golf course, a nod to Hall’s passion for the game and his time working at Willow Point Golf & Country Club.

“It was just such a special day,” Griffith said. “There was just so much joy. If I could relive it every single day, I would – it was by far my favorite day.”

Today, Griffith wears her mother’s wedding band along with her engagement ring. The couple also owns a house in the same Tallassee neighborhood where their story began, bringing their Lake Martin love story full circle.

Jordan Chapman & Chase Humber

Details

Venue: New Water Farms (Dadeville)

Photographer: Samantha Webber (Birmingham)

Entertainment: 4 Barrel Funk (Gulf Coast)

Florist: Everyday Flowers (Clanton)

Caterer: MeMaMa’s Grub Hub (Dadeville)

Bride's Cake: Julie Blankenship (Alexander City)

Bridal Dress: McClendon Bridals (Sylacauga)

Wedding Coordinator: Sarah Sullins (Prattville)

Rentals: Savvy Events (Auburn), Pope Tents and Events (Elba)

Bartending: Premium Pours (Auburn)

Live Artist: Lila Graves (Alexander City)

Fireworks: Brian Yates (Alexander City)

How They Met:

The stars aligned for Chapman and Humber when a mutual family friend hosted a baby shower at the Chapman lake house, bringing the Humber family to the home for the weekend. A chance encounter sparked an immediate connection. After crossing paths again at a Corey Smith concert at The AMP, the two shared their first date at Kowaliga Restaurant that following Friday and have been together ever since.

Love at the Lake:

An Alexander City native, Chapman grew up going to Lake Martin. While the couple debated between the beach and the lake for their wedding, the pull of home and the fact both families now reside near Lake Martin made it the perfect choice. The decision was sealed during a visit to New Water Farms – as Chapman stood in the chapel with her parents looking out over the water, she knew she couldn’t say “I do” anywhere else.

Personal Touches:

Chapman and Humber filled their celebration with many meaningful details, from having Humber’s uncle officiate to asking guests to sign snow skis – a nod to the couple’s annual winter passion. The reception featured a live painting by Lila Graves and a nostalgic performance of the “2-Bits” cheer by Chapman and her bridesmaids. Guests sipped on John Dalys and lavender lemonade signature cocktails.

Favorite Wedding Memory:

Immediately following her first look with her father, Chapman shared a moment of reflection with him outside the chapel. Standing together and looking out over the beautiful setup, they took a deep breath to appreciate the hard work and the many people who came together to make the day perfect, leaving her with a profound sense of gratitude before the ceremony began.

Lavender, Love & Lake Martin

STORY BY SAM VISE & PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA WEBBER

FFor Jordan Chapman, the walk toward the New Water Farms chapel on March 29, 2025, was a decade in the making – and deeply rooted in a place that has always felt like home. Lake Martin wasn’t just a scenic backdrop for her marriage to Chase Humber; it was the heart of their story. With Chapman’s family ties in Alexander City and Humber’s family recently settling fulltime in StillWaters, there was never a question of where they would say “I do.”

“When my mom, dad and I walked out to the chapel at New Water Farms and overlooked the lake, I just knew,” Chapman said. “I knew I didn’t want to get married anywhere else.”

Humber proposed during a family trip to the Bahamas – just one month shy of the couple’s 10-year dating anniversary. What Chapman thought was going to be a family photo on the beach turned into a moment she’ll never forget when she turned around to find Humber on one knee.

“At first, I thought they were all playing a really bad joke on me,” she said. “I remember asking, ‘Are you for real?’ I looked at my family and they were all nodding. I started screaming and jumping up and down, and they asked, ‘Aren’t you going to say yes?’ And obviously, I did.”

The wedding morning unfolded in the upper cabins at New Water Farms in Dadeville, filled with excitement and an outpour of love. Wanting to keep the focus on family, Chapman spent those early hours with her sister, four sisters-in-law, nieces and nephew.

Chapman was also focused on a secret she had been keeping for months – her dress.

Having told only her mother and sister about her gown from McClendon Bridals, Chapman planned a reveal for her bridesmaids. While she had always envisioned a high-neck, open-back silhouette, she changed her mind to a modern off-the-shoulder

gown. When she put her dress on for the first time, she knew it was the one.

“They all said it looked just like me,” Chapman recalled. “When I saw the look on everyone’s face, I just thought, ‘OK, this is it.’”

The ceremony felt like a gift from above. While the spring morning was overcast and windy, just moments before Chapman walked down the aisle, the gray skies transformed.

“It was super windy and not very sunny, which kind of bummed me out,” she said. “But right before I walked down the aisle, the skies literally opened up. The sun was beaming down on everybody and coming through the chapel; it was beautiful.”

The day was filled with thoughtful, personal details. Chapman’s love for lavender was woven throughout, from her flower arrangements and velvet ring box to her floral wedding shoes. In a sweet tribute to her new family, Chapman’s four sisters-in-law served as her “something blue,” and the ceremony was officiated by Humber’s uncle.

At the outdoor reception, guests enjoyed an array of Southern comfort foods catered by Me MaMa’s in Dadeville. The menu included savory classics such as shrimp, green beans, mashed potatoes and baked chicken, some of Humber’s favorites. In addition, the couple served lavender lemonade and John Daly cocktails, a nod to Humber’s passion for golf.

The couple’s first dance was captured by live artist and family friend Lila Graves, who painted the memory on a canvas that now hangs in the couple’s home.

They shared the intimate moment to a special wedding version of “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake, a fitting song choice for a bride who had spent the day reflecting on how much there was to be thankful for.

“After the first look with my dad, we turned around to look at everything, and I felt so thankful,” Chapman said. “It was perfect.”

The evening ended with an extravagant fireworks display, mirroring the couple’s favorite Fourth of July memories on Lake Martin.

Looking back on the “tall guy with dark hair” she met by chance at her parents’ lake house, Chapman reflected on a day that involved countless details, months of planning and the love of many people – yet came down to something beautifully simple.

“When I finally saw him at the end of the aisle, my only thought was ‘I finally get to marry you,’” Chapman said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

Megan Harris & Andrew Lyle

The four-tier cake featured cascading floral details

Details

Venue: Church in the Pines, Willow Point Golf & Country Club (Alexander City)

Photographer: Kristen Pugh Photography (Birmingham)

Entertainment: Trotline (South Georgia)

Florist: Morgan Martin Inspired (Auburn)

Caterer: Willow Point Golf & Country Club (Alexander City)

Bridal Dress: Carriage House (Birmingham)

Wedding Planner: 9 Lemons (Auburn)

Bride’s Cake: Sweet Gaga’s (Alexander City)

Groom’s Cake: Catherine’s Market (Alexander City)

Furniture Rentals: Elegant Events (Montgomery)

Dance Floor: Sign Essentials (Opelika)

Videographer: Justin Clayton (Alexander City)

Invitations & Programs: River Paper Company (Auburn)

Hair & Makeup: Tori Mejia (Auburn)

Cups & Koozies: Everything Sweet Auburn (Auburn)

How They Met:

Harris and Lyle’s story began at Auburn University, where a shared circle of friends brought them together during her sophomore year. Harris took the first step by inviting Lyle to a date party. The night went so well that he asked her to the next one, turning their group hangouts into a forever romance.

Love at the Lake:

For Harris, Lake Martin was “the plan from the jump.” Having grown up in Alexander City and spending every possible weekend on the water, she spent years admiring weddings at Willow Point Golf & Country Club. Choosing the open-air beauty of Church in the Pines for the ceremony and Willow Point for the reception allowed her to bring her childhood wedding dreams to life in the place that holds her fondest memories.

Personal Touches:

Harris’ wedding was a beautiful tribute to heritage and heart, beginning with a custom family heirloom: a veil featuring lace from her mother’s wedding gown. As an elementary school teacher, she included her students in the big day by asking them to write messages for reception cocktail napkins, while the couple’s grand exit was made in the same vintage Corvette her parents used for their wedding getaway decades ago.

Favorite Wedding Memory:

After the reception drew to a close, Harris and Lyle shared one private last dance alone with the band. To the tune of Tyler Childers’ “All Your’n,” the couple took a quiet moment to soak in the joy of the day and celebrate their first moments of marriage away from the crowd.

Magic at Lake Martin

STORY BY SAM VISE

PHOTOS BY KRISTEN PUGH PHOTOGRAPHY

FFor Megan Harris, the walk down the aisle at Church in the Pines wasn’t just the beginning of her marriage to Andrew Lyle – it was the realization of a childhood dream. Growing up in Alexander City, Harris spent her summers watching enchanting weddings unfold at Willow Point Golf & Country Club, quietly gathering inspiration for a day she always knew would come.

“Getting married on Lake Martin was a no-brainer for me,” Harris said. “Growing up on the lake, I’ve seen a million weddings by the water, and I always thought they were so magical. When I was a little girl, I fantasized about that being my wedding.”

Those dreams came full circle after a whirlwind romance with her college sweetheart. After dating for three years, Harris knew a proposal was coming soon, but Lyle managed to keep her off the trail using her closest confidant.

“My little sister is my best friend, and I knew he

wouldn’t do it without her being there,” Harris said. “She was living in South Carolina for the summer, so I figured it would be later.”

Unbeknownst to Harris, her sister returned home early just to witness the moment. The couple was on their way to what Harris thought was a birthday lunch for her brother at Willow Point when Lyle suggested they walk out to the 18th green to “look at something by the rocks.”

“I told him, ‘OK, but hurry up, we’re going to be late,’” Harris said. “We walked out there and he hugged me, told me he loved me and then started saying all these sweet things. When he got down on one knee, I immediately started sobbing.”

A year later, the fantasy Harris had built as a child finally came to life. The morning of June 21, 2025, arrived with a burst of energy at the Willow Point villas.

“I remember running around the villa screaming,” Harris said. “I was jumping on all the beds that morning, I think I stepped on a couple bridesmaids, but it was so fun. I had all my people with me.”

While the morning was filled with vibrant energy, a sudden summer downpour threatened to disrupt the day; however, the bride was far too caught up in the joy of the moment to mind.

“I was so oblivious to my surroundings,” Harris recalled. “My bridesmaids were all getting umbrellas, and I was so confused. It was pouring down rain outside, but I was on cloud nine.”

Before the waterfront ceremony at Church in the Pines, the couple shared a first look that Harris insisted be all their own.

“I didn’t care if we didn’t get photos, I wanted our first look to be just us,” she said. “I was so nervous and jittery, but once I saw Andrew, I knew I could calm down and everything was OK. We both had tears in our eyes; it was sweet.”

The creative team managed to capture the emotional meeting through a window, preserving the memory while honoring the couple’s privacy.

Lakeside magic was evident throughout the day – the couple took stunning portraits on a family friend’s 1940 Chris-Craft boat. Inside the Willow Point ballroom, the reception was a high-energy party fueled by the band Trotline.

In place of a traditional groom’s cake, the couple served key lime pie bites from Catherine’s Market. The bride’s cake was traditional white, adorned with fresh flowers.

The day was anchored by heartfelt tributes. As an elementary school teacher, Harris included her students by having them respond to prompts such as, “What is Love?” and “Things That Mr. Andrew Should Know About Miss Harris” prior to the wedding. Their responses were then drawn onto the reception cocktail napkins.

“I absolutely adore my students, and even though I couldn’t invite them all to my wedding, I wanted to have them contribute to the magic somehow,” she said.

Harris’s most cherished memory was not the couple’s first dance of the night, but their last one. After guests had cleared, the couple shared one private last dance alone with the band to Tyler Childers’ “All Your’n.”

“We had been so surrounded by love and joy all day,” Harris said. “It felt like we really just had one last song to soak it all in and just be the two of us for one quick moment. It was the sweetest moment of my favorite day ever.”

Grace Kilgore & Coleman Pethel

How They Met:

Kilgore and Pethel first met when they were randomly paired in a crowded swing dancing class at the Georgia Institute of Technology. A shared connection to a summer camp – spotted on Kilgore’s t-shirt – sparked a conversation so effortlessly they stopped dancing after just 20 minutes to spend the next five hours talking and getting to know each other.

Love at the Lake:

For Kilgore, Lake Martin has always been the backdrop for some of her favorite childhood memories at her family’s lake house, including fishing, tubing and cruising the shorelines to catch sunsets. For the wedding, the couple hosted a full weekend of celebrations for family and friends by renting out 10 lake houses within a mile of each other. From watersports to boat rides and visiting iconic locations such as Chimney Rock and Chuck’s Marina, the couple offered their guests a chance to experience the ease, fun and togetherness of the lake life they love.

Personal Touches:

For Kilgore and Pethel, the goal was to immerse their guests – many of whom were first-time visitors – in the local culture of Lake Martin. Their wedding weekend featured welcome bags filled with jams, cheese straws and bakery goodies from local businesses and farms. By utilizing local vendors for everything from boat rentals and housing to party assistance and catering, they turned their wedding into a vibrant showcase of the community they love.

Favorite Wedding Memory:

The most unforgettable part of the day for Kilgore was the intentional time spent worshipping and having communion during the ceremony. Sharing that peaceful moment with her husband while surrounded by the support of their friends and family provided a profound sense of presence and spiritual connection.

Details

Venue: New Water Farms (Dadeville)

Photographer: Caroline Bobbitt (Birmingham)

Videographer: CallaRose Planning (Auburn)

Entertainment: Nice Entertainment (Atlanta)

Florist: AnnaMarie Gardner (Auburn)

Caterer: Endless Catering (Huntsville)

Coordinator: CallaRose Planning (Auburn)

Bride’s Cake: The Wired Whisk Baker (Decatur)

Rentals: Pope Tent & Events (Elba)

Boat Rentals: Lake Life Living (Dadeville)

Bartending: Premium Pours (Auburn/Opelika)

Coffee Truck: Temper Coffee and Mocktail Truck (Birmingham)

Late Night Snack: Lake Martin Pizza Co. (Dadeville)

Transportation: Cart Source (Dadeville)

Bridal Dress: The White Magnolia (Atlanta)

Hair & Makeup: Cheri King Beauty (Tyrone, Georgia)

From Camp Notes to Wedding Vows

STORY BY SAM VISE & PHOTOS BY CAROLINE BOBBITT

FFor Grace Kilgore and Coleman Pethel, their wedding on September 20, 2025, wasn’t just a celebration – it was a full-circle moment almost exactly five years after they first crossed paths.

Their story began in a college swing dancing class after the two were randomly partnered together. A shared connection to the summer camp on Kilgore’s t-shirt led to a night spent talking and getting to know each other. Truly love at first sight, Pethel texted his fraternity brothers that night saying, “I just met my wife.”

When it came time for Pethel to propose, he chose the very place where their story truly took root: WinShape Camps. The location held deep meaning for the couple, as both had worked there and considered it the place they grew up. He surprised Kilgore with a ring by the camp’s lake, pulling off the perfect proposal with both of their families secretly tucked away to witness the moment.

honor to personalize the ring,” Kilgore said about her engagement ring. “I had no clue he had been working with a jeweler to design it. He did it all himself.”

The proposal was a sentimental nod to the common thread of their relationship, but the most touching detail perhaps was saved for the wedding day. During their first look, the couple exchanged vows written inside the very same journals they had used to pass notes back and forth at camp years prior.

“I was really grateful and excited, and seeing Coleman brought a lot of peace. It helped ease my nerves,”

Kilgore said of their first look. “Having a moment before our ceremony to remind ourselves what the day was truly about was so special. It was a nice moment to center myself before the rest of the day.”

Choosing Lake Martin as the venue was an easy decision for Kilgore, whose family house on the water had always been a sanctuary of rest.

“He worked with my sister and my other maid of

“I grew up going to Lake Martin, and we knew we

wanted to get married somewhere that was very scenic and outdoors,” Kilgore said. “We just couldn’t have imagined a more perfect place.”

The aesthetic of the day was what she described as light, airy and whimsical. Dressed in a stunning Watters gown featuring a daring, Pinterest-inspired neck scarf, Kilgore walked down the aisle carrying a bouquet wrapped in her grandmother’s wedding handkerchief.

Her bridesmaids added a touch of DIY charm to the morning, decorating Kilgore’s reception sneakers with ribbon laces and trendy shoe charms. The color palette – bursting with peaches and swatches of summer – was mirrored in a winter citrus cake and a sprawling charcuterie table that spoke to the couple’s love for snacking.

Every corner of the reception told a piece of their history. One wall was covered in a collection of memories, featuring a screenshot of their very first text message and a display of postcards Pethel had written to Kilgore from every place he traveled during their five-year relationship.

To keep the reception buzzing, the couple brought in a coffee truck and capped the night with garlic knots and pizza from Lake Martin Pizza Co.

While the dance floor energy was high – at one point resulting in Pethel being hoisted into the air by his friends – the day was anchored by profound family moments. In a year defined by Pethel’s father’s miraculous recovery from a traumatic brain injury, seeing him walk down the aisle and give a speech was a highlight of the weekend. Kilgore also dedicated her bouquet to her mother, her “mentor and idol,” acknowledging the role she played in bringing the vision to life.

As the evening ended, the couple shared a moment of serene quiet as they departed the reception on a vintage antique boat driven by local Steve Slayman. For Kilgore and Pethel, it was the perfect end to a weekend of sharing their sanctuary with the people they love most – a day that began with a random partner in a dance class and ended with the perfect partner for life.

The couple shared a quiet moment together as newlyweds

Megan Armstrong & Collin Sharpe

The newlyweds shared a quiet moment together before the reception

The couple was surrounded by friends, family and love

Armstrong’s mother made classic margaritas for guests at the reception

Details

Venue: Overlook Farms (Dadeville)

Photographer: Lauren Minix Photography (Auburn)

Videographer: GO Films (Jasper)

Entertainment: Rocket City Entertainment (Birmingham)

Florist: Kaleigh Barkley (Dadeville)

Caterer: Krave Korner (LaFayette)

Coordinator: Kaleigh Barkley (Dadeville)

Bride’s Cake: Sweet as Cakes (Auburn)

Groom’s Cake: Sweet Gaga’s (Alexander City)

Bartending: Lee Pitchford (Dadeville)

Hotdog Truck: Ernie’s Hotdogs (Alexander City)

Marquee Letters: Say It In Lights (Birmingham)

Pastor: Brett Self, Stone Ridge Baptist Church (Alexander City)

Hair: Chelsea Lutz (Root 49 at Lake Martin; Dadeville)

Makeup: Hallie Gordon (Be.YOU.tiful Salon; Alexander City)

How They Met:

Armstrong and Sharpe’s story began in the halls of Auburn University’s Department of Civial and Environmental Engineering, where they were in the same graduation cohort and found themselves working together on multiple projects. The pair started dating in fall 2021 and have been inseparable since.

Love at the Lake:

With Sharpe being a native of Alexander City, the couple shared a passion for Lake Martin, filling long summer days with boat rides to Peanut Point, orange creamsicles from BoonDocks at Bay Pine and pizza date nights at Chuck’s Marina. Choosing Lake Martin as their wedding destination allowed the couple to celebrate in a place that felt like home while honoring their shared lifelong love of being “water bugs.”

Personal Touches:

Armstrong’s wedding day was anchored by a touching tribute to her groom’s grandmother, who passed away one month before the wedding. Armstrong wore Sharpe's “MeMaw’s” pearl necklace on her wedding day, which was fastened by Sharpe’s sister. The couple also honored her memory with a dedicated chair at the ceremony, ensuring her presence was felt throughout the day.

Favorite Wedding Memory:

Armstrong’s favorite moment was the quiet, private dinner she shared with Sharpe on the secondstory balcony at Overlook Farms. The nerves and anticipation had faded, and the moment Armstrong had been waiting for had finally arrived – she was married to her soulmate. Looking out over the lawn, the newlyweds took a moment to soak in the view of all their favorite people gathered together in one place.

The couple’s first dance was set to

Love Overlooking Lake Martin

STORY BY SAM VISE & PHOTOS BY LAUREN MINIX PHOTOGRAPHY

FFor Megan Armstrong and Collin Sharpe, the journey from graduate research partners to life partners was as precise and intentional as the civil engineering degrees they pursued at Auburn University.

That initial spark while working together in class led to a four-year relationship that reached a peak – literally – on the Yukon Suspension Bridge connecting Alaska to Canada. During a family cruise in July 2024, Sharpe managed to convince Armstrong he wasn’t planning a proposal, leaving her completely oblivious as they walked over the mountains.

“Collin really outdid himself,” Armstrong said. “We were on the Canadian side of the bridge and I could tell he was getting nervous, but I wasn’t sure why. His mom asked to take our picture when suddenly, he got down on one knee. It was absolutely gorgeous and a moment I’ll never forget.”

When it came to choosing a wedding venue, the couple leaned into Sharpe’s Alexander City roots and their shared love for the water.

“Ever since we got together, we would take trips to his family’s lake house,” Armstrong said. “Choosing Lake Martin was a no-brainer. It’s a beautiful place to be, and there’s so much depth to the people here. I also grew up on a lake, so it seemed pretty perfect.”

Choosing Overlook Farms for their March 22, 2025, wedding allowed them to honor Sharpe’s history while creating a fun, springtime atmosphere filled with Armstrong’s favorite color: pink.

While the venue provided the perfect spring backdrop, Armstrong’s dress served as the centerpiece of the day’s design and reflected her desire for something unique.

After trying on 13 traditional gowns, Armstrong found “the one” in an asym-

metrical, tiered ballgown from McClendon Bridals in Sylacauga that she hadn’t considered originally.

“I tried on lots of dresses that day, but none of them made me feel like a bride,” Armstrong recalled. “I thought I had finally found the one, but I still had one last dress to try. I tried that one on and, of course, fell in love with it. It had so much personality; it was unique and felt like me.”

Her wedding day began in the bridal suite at Overlook Farms, a space she described as “peaceful and filled with life.” Surrounded by her mother, mother-in-law and best friends from all walks of life, Armstrong felt a profound sense of calm.

“I woke up and I was excitedly nervous, but knowing at the end of the day that I was going to marry Collin brought a lot of peace,” Armstrong said. “I had known years before that he was my soulmate, but now I was marrying him. There was just a lot of happiness, being surrounded by so much love.”

The anticipation that had been building since their engagement in Alaska finally peaked in a private first look with Sharpe.

“I was just so ready for him to see the dress,” Armstrong said. “By the time that you get the dress on, you’re so ready for your husband to see it – he’s the one that matters most. There was so much excitement leading up to that moment. It was good to finally see him and know that from that point on, we would spend

the rest of the day, and our lives, together. It was the start to our forever.”

The ceremony was soundtracked by a live violinist and officiated by Sharpe’s childhood youth pastor, Brett Self. The couple shared an intimate communion moment under the spring sun, grounding their vows in shared faith.

As the celebration moved to the reception, the couple swapped traditional formalities for interactive fun. Instead of a standard guest book, attendees snapped Polaroid photos to tuck into a scrapbook and dropped slips of paper into an advice bucket for the newlyweds to read later.

Guests moved between the high-energy dance floor and a photo booth, while an Ernie’s Hot Dogs stand provided the perfect late-night snack. The night concluded with a staged exit through a tunnel of streamers, leading them to their vintage white getaway truck.

“We had a cute little private moment in the truck where we reflected on how grateful we were for everyone’s help with the wedding process,” Armstrong said. “It meant so much to us that all our favorite people came from near and far to celebrate with us.”

As the lights of Overlook Farms faded in the rearview mirror, Armstrong knew the research was finally over. The data was in – they had built a life on a foundation of faith, family and a love that was, quite simply, “pretty perfect.”

Lindsey Price & Alex Acreman

Details

Venues: Church in the Pines, The Stables at Russell Crossroads (Alexander City)

Photographer: Megan Mullins Photography (Alex City)

Videographer: Claire Hodges Creative (Auburn)

Wedding Planner: Jaclynn Traffanstedt (Sylacauga)

Ceremony Music: Verite Strings (Birmingham)

Entertainment: Tasteful Tea (Atlanta, GA)

Florist: Florals by Samantha & Missy (Anniston)

Caterer: Savoie Catering (Alexander City)

Wedding Cake: Mimi’s Table Cakes (Sylacauga)

Bartending: Premium Pours (Auburn/Opelika)

Late Night Snack: Chris’ Hot Dogs (Montgomery)

Transportation: Rare Transportation (Pelham)

Bridal Dress: Bliss Bridal (Fairhope)

Hair & Makeup: Be Loved Beauty (Birmingham)

Content Creation: Light Rise Creative (Central Alabama)

Stationary: Rose & Cotton Stationary (Auburn)

How They Met:

Price and Acreman first crossed paths during her sophomore year at Auburn University. Although Acreman had already graduated, he would frequently visit campus to see friends. Through mutual connections, the couple was introduced. Their personal friendship grew into a mutual crush, leading to a surprise proposal on their five-year dating anniversary.

Love at the Lake:

For Price and Acreman, Lake Martin is more than a scenic location; it’s a living family scrapbook. Acreman’s family purchased their lake house before he was born, setting Lake Martin as the backdrop for countless childhood memories and summer adventures. After the couple began dating and making their own memories on the water, they knew Lake Martin was the perfect place to say “I do.”

Personal Touches:

One of Price’s favorite personal elements of the day was the vintage coffee mugs she thrifted for guests to take home as wedding favors. In a sweet tribute to family, Price also wore her mother’s wedding veil, creating a family heirloom to pass down for generations. The couple’s dogs, Scout and Blue, made a special debut – with Blue doubling as Price’s “something blue.” The couple also honored the love that came before them with a table displaying portraits of their parents, grandparents and other family members from their wedding days.

Favorite Wedding Memory:

Price’s favorite memory was dancing the night away at the reception. After months of planning and the formality of the ceremony, she finally felt the weight of wedding planning lift. Getting to relax, dance and simply be present with her new husband, friends and family was the perfect end to a perfect day.

A Vision of Vintage & Love

The couple’s dogs made a special debut as the bride’s “something blue"

AAfter five years together, Lindsey Price thought she had a clear vision for her future with Alex Acreman, but even her keen eye for detail couldn’t have predicted the surprise he had in store for their milestone anniversary.

As a lover of vintage finds and sentimental stories, Price had already spent years dreaming of a wedding that honored her past while celebrating her future. That dream arrived in a burst of surprise and tears in Bienville Square in Mobile, Alabama.

For the proposal, Acreman had originally planned a romantic moment on the boat at his family’s Lake Martin home, but when Price’s grandfather underwent open-heart surgery, she rushed home to South Alabama to help.

Not wanting to miss celebrating their five-year anniversary, Acreman pivoted, meeting Price in Mobile and proposing in front of the fountain in Bienville Square as her family hid behind a massive oak tree.

“It’s very difficult to surprise me, but he managed to catch me completely off guard,” Price said. “I remember my family jumping out and we were all crying. It was really special.”

When it came time to plan their March 29, 2025, nuptials, returning to Lake Martin was the only option

that felt right.

Acreman’s family had owned their lake house near Niffer’s Place since before he was born, making the shores of Lake Martin a backdrop to many of his favorite childhood memories. The couple chose the iconic Church in the Pines for their ceremony, followed by a reception at The Stables at Russell Crossroads.

Prior to the ceremony, the couple shared a “pawsonal” moment with their two dogs, Scout and Blue. In a sweet nod to tradition, Blue – who had been a surprise Valentine’s Day gift from her groom years earlier – served as Price’s “something blue.” The pups were chauffeured to the couple’s first look at SpringHouse, allowing the couple to include their four-legged family members in their special day.

Following a soulful ceremony, guests gathered at The Stables for a menu that celebrated the newlyweds’ Southern heritage. The spread featured a mac and cheese bar – Price’s personal favorite – alongside pork tenderloin, chicken with white barbecue sauce and a nod to Price’s coastal roots with shrimp and grits. With a degree in fashion, Price’s eye for detail was most evident in her choice of attire. She selected a stunning strapless ballgown crafted from rich Jacquard

fabric with a detachable bow, a style Price had dreamed of for years. To complete the look, she paired the modern silhouette with a piece of family history – her mother’s wedding veil.

“I absolutely love anything antique or vintage,” Price said. “I’m a sucker for family heirlooms, and my mom and I are so similar; it was really special. I hope that, God willing, my daughter can use it one day.”

That love for all things vintage extended to the reception favors. Price spent months thrifting a massive collection of unique, vintage mugs to give to her guests – a project she actually started before she and Acreman were engaged.

“I was most excited about the mugs,” Price said. “I wanted something unique and different that was a good representation of me. A mug is something that’s going to get used, and I wanted everybody to think of our special day every time they used it.”

The evening was a whirlwind of romance and celebration, featuring an almond-flavored wedding cake and the couple’s first dance set to Red Clay Strays’ “Wondering Why.”

But for Price, the true magic was in the stillness of the ceremony.

“I just remember feeling super grateful,” she said. “To be able to look out and just feel all the love from everybody that was there –that is a moment I’ll remember for a really, really long time.”

As the couple made their getaway in a vintage Ford Model A Phaeton – a surprise from Acreman that perfectly matched his bride’s aesthetic – the stress of planning faded into the night.

For a girl who loves a story with a past, Price walked away from The Stables with the best one yet: a marriage built on five years of friendship and a future anchored by the same waters that have held her husband’s family for generations.

Love Everlasting

STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK MOORE & PHOTOS BY BAXLEE MCKELVEY

AAfter more than 70 years of marriage, Larry and Joanne Fralic’s days are filled with laughter, playful banter and a devotion that is sweeter than any Hallmark romance.

At 90 years old, their love story began on the banks of Lake Martin – a place they still consider their true home.

Larry grew up in the small town of Tallassee, while Joanne’s childhood unfolded just down the river at the village of Martin Dam, known then as the City of Cherokee Bluffs. Built by Alabama Power for dam workers and their families, the village was where Joanne was raised while her father, Bernie Sanford, helped construct the dam. He remained with the company for 42 years.

Growing up as a “dam child,” as Joanne referred to it, was a simple and peaceful life.

“We were always known as ‘dam kids,’” Joanne said. “It was a nice little village at the time. It was a nice place to live and grow up.”

Joanne and her older sister, Mary Joyce, were born and raised in the rural village, which included a hospital, small grocery store and single-pump gas station. Dirt roads ran throughout the community, with the nearest paved road being Alabama State Route 49.

a very nice man, and it was a big deal when we had the company picnic. Those were really nice memories for me.”

The first time Larry set eyes on Joanne was long before they officially met.

In 1944, when Larry was just 8 years old, his uncle owned a store in Tallassee and the two would frequently travel to nearby rural communities to take orders – including the village at Martin Dam.

Even after seven decades of marriage, the couple continues to share moments of laughter

Joanne spent her childhood outdoors, swimming in the water nearly every day with her cocker spaniel, Honey, watching from the bank.

“When you lived in the country, you had to learn how to entertain yourself,” Joanne said. “I can remember walking up to the dam where there was a walkway that went down into the water. I would go down and get in the lake and swim. You could just swim in the most beautiful water you ever wanted to be in.”

Joanne also recalled that once a year, Alabama Power would host a company picnic where the village would come together for a day of celebration. Thomas Wesley Martin, president of Alabama Power and the man Martin Dam was later named after, often attended.

“It was wonderful,” Joanne said. “Mister Martin was

During one of those trips, Joanne and her sister were standing at the end of the Benjamin Fitzpatrick Bridge, which crossed the Tallapoosa River and connected the dam village to Tallassee.

Larry spotted Joanne and thought she was the prettiest girl he had ever seen – it was love at first sight.

“I knew she was the one in 1944,” Larry said. “I thought she was cute.”

While the two attended separate grade schools, years later, Joanne began crossing the bridge to attend Tallassee High School in ninth grade, where their paths reconnected and their young love began to grow.

Like many couples of the era, their early romance was handwritten and heartfelt.

“We passed notes quite a few times in the hallways,” Larry said.

They quickly became something of an all-American pair. Larry was an all-around athlete, playing baseball, basketball and football, while Joanne was crowned Miss Tallassee during her senior year in 1953.

After high school, Larry signed a professional baseball contract with the Milwaukee Braves and headed to Wisconsin. When his first season ended, Larry returned to Alabama and stayed with his sister in Opelika where, coincidentally, Joanne was also living at the time.

In 1953, Larry asked Joanne to attend the Tallassee football game in Opelika with him. By the end of the fourth quarter, Larry asked Joanne for her hand in marriage.

The childhood sweethearts continue to visit the lake and share afternoons on their screened-in porch

“At the end of that game, I asked, ‘Will you marry me?’” Larry said.

Joanne said yes. Just six weeks later, they were married.

“It was a long engagement,” Larry said, jokingly. “We went to the Methodist church, and the minister interviewed us and made sure we were compatible. Then, on Saturday night at 7 o’clock, I said, ‘I do,’ and she said, ‘I did.’”

The couple married December 19, 1953, in Tallassee and recently celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary. Their ceremony was small and private, held in the church parsonage, with Joanne’s sister and brother-in-law serving as witnesses. Larry’s lifelong friend and Tallassee teammate, John Frazier, stood beside him as best man.

Larry paid the minister $5, considered a sizable amount of money in 1953.

“I felt like I needed to pay him something, so I gave him $5,” Larry said. “Which was quite a lot of money back then.”

Soon after the wedding, the couple moved to Orlando, Florida, as Larry continued traveling to play minor league baseball. But then, their life together quickly took a different turn. While home in Tallassee for a visit, Larry received word from his mother that he was being drafted into the Army for the Vietnam War.

Wanting to follow in his father’s footsteps, a Navy veteran who was stationed in the Guadalcanal after Pearl Harbor, Larry attempted to enlist in the Navy first; however, the wait was too long.

“It was going to be six to eight weeks before the Navy could take me,” Larry said. “I knew I couldn’t wait, because the Army wanted me now. So, I went to the Air Force and they asked me when I wanted to leave. I said, ‘When’s the next bus?’”

Within days, Larry was on his way to Texas, where he completed Air Force basic training with the 47th Training Wing at Amarillo Air Force Base. He went on to serve as an instructor for four years before being stationed in Japan, launching what became a 25-year career with the U.S. Air Force.

By then, the couple had two young children, Mary and Mike. Joanne faithfully stood by her husband’s side, following Larry overseas and raising their children while he served.

In 1961, the family returned to the United States, where the couple welcomed their third child, Nancy, the following year. The Fralics continued to travel to destinations around the world that Larry’s military career took them, until he retired from the service in Niceville, Florida in 1978.

In the early 1980s, Larry and Joanne purchased their property at Lake Martin, returning to the place where their love story began. Larry’s uncle had once owned the peninsula now known as Holiday Shore, later giving parcels of the land to family members.

When Larry learned that his niece planned to sell her Lake Martin property for $17,000, he didn’t hesitate to buy it.

“To us, it’s priceless,” Larry said.

The couple built a new cottage along the shoreline in 2010, complete with a screened-in porch where Larry enjoys swinging and taking in the view, while Joanne loves to nap peacefully on a cot nearby. Most importantly, their lake home remains a sentimental gathering place for creating memories with their children and grandchildren.

Today, Larry and Joanne reside in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, but return to Lake Martin every three months to reconnect with lifelong friends from Tallassee High School. They remain active with the Class of 1953 and gather regularly for lunch with their classmates at Cozumel Mexican Grill.

For Joanne, each visit is a return to home and the place she met the love of her life.

Reflecting on 72 years of marriage, Joanne remains full of gratitude and perspective.

“I just don’t know where the years went,” Joanne said. “After you’ve been married for so many years, raising a family and travelling, there’s always places to go and things to do. Don’t lose interest in living, we’re still ready for about 30 or 40 more years.”

Her advice for a lasting marriage is simple.

“You just deliver one day at a time,” Joanne said. “And don’t pick up old bones. Today is today and tomorrow is tomorrow, so don’t go looking back.”

Larry’s advice for husbands everywhere is short, sweet and filled with humor.

“Don’t ever say ‘no’ to your wife,” he joked.

It Began With a Boat

STORY BY SHAYLEE BECK

The

WWhile Lake Martin has long been a destination for families seeking rest and recreation, for Kirk and Alicia Cuevas, it all began with a boat.

The Cuevases never envisioned themselves owning a home on Lake Martin. In fact, the idea wasn’t even on their radar – until a casual lunch sparked a chain of events that would eventually lead to the completion of their dream lake retreat in September 2025.

With Kirk growing up in Mississippi and Alicia in Texas, the two met at First Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, near Washington, D.C. Years later, after Kirk launched a firm with his business partner Dennis Dollar, the couple decided to settle closer to an airport to accommodate his frequent travel. That decision brought them back to the South, where they have lived in Birmingham for the past 22 years.

enjoying the view,” Kirk said. “We got to talking, and I said, ‘You know, if I was ever going to have a boat, it’d be one like that one.’”

In August 2019, Kirk’s nephew began working for his firm, and the couple invited him and his new wife to Lake Martin for a quick getaway. Though neither Kirk nor Alicia had spent much time at the lake before, they decided to stop for lunch at Kowaliga Restaurant – a decision that would spark a series of fortunate events.

“We were just sitting there, looking at the boats and

The couple noticed a boat docked near the Kowaliga pier and wandered down to take a closer look. Their curiosity then led them to Kowaliga Marina, where an endof-season sale was underway. Before they knew it, the couple had purchased the showroom boat.

With keys in hand, one thing quickly became clear –they needed a place to keep it.

“My business partner was laughing when I bought the

The downstairs space was reimagined as a retreat for the grandchildren

boat,” Kirk said. “He told me, ‘You’ll have a house down there in the next six weeks.’”

Over the years, the Cuevas purchased two homes on Lake Martin, but the vision of building a custom lake home never faded. When the time came to turn that vision into reality, they turned to longtime friend and architect Michael O’Kelley and builder Will Maxey of Oak and Hawkins Residential Builders.

O’Kelley and Kirk had previously worked together on several mission trips with YUGO Ministries, building houses for the homeless in Mexico. That shared bond made the design process especially meaningful.

After sitting down with Kirk and Alicia to talk through their ideas for a Lake Martin retreat, O’Kelley got to work.

“This is what came out of Michael O’Kelley’s mind,” Alicia said.

The 5,100 square foot home features five bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms and a bunk room, crafted by the minds of the Cuevas couple and brought to life by friend O’Kelley and Maxey.

While every corner of the home was built with intention, each step in the process carries a story behind it.

One priority guided the design from the beginning –the view.

Kirk wanted to maximize the waterfront scenery from nearly every angle. The main living room delivers on that vision, with soaring 18-foot ceilings and 7-foot-

tall windows that flood the space with natural light and sweeping lake views. A stone fireplace anchors the room, topped with a mantel salvaged from a 160-yearold barn in Stanton, Virginia.

The living room opens onto a 46-foot wraparound porch, complete with Cracker Barrel-style rocking chairs and a grilling area. Alicia’s request was simple – an outdoor dining space and kitchen that could open up fully for hosting large gatherings of friends and family.

In addition, tucked along the side of the porch is an outdoor prayer area, where the couple can soak in stunning sunrises while reading daily devotionals.

Inside, warm neutrals set the tone. SherwinWilliams’ Aesthetic White is accented with Urbane Bronze throughout the home, creating a cozy yet timeless backdrop. Flat-plank hardwood flooring runs throughout, chosen intentionally for its color.

“It reminded me of the fawn deer I’d see outside the cabin,” Alicia said.

One of the home’s most striking design features is the hallway leading to the primary bedroom. Extending from the main living area, the corridor is lined with windows that frame uninterrupted water views.

“It almost became like a gallery to the outside with putting these windows here,” Kirk said. “Michael really captured that idea. You walk down the hall and have this water view.”

The spa-styled primary bedroom and bathroom feature Spanish moss-distressed cabinets, Taj Mahal quartz countertops, a Max Delta soaking tub and stone flooring – reminding Alicia of stones one would skip across the surface of the lake.

One guest bedroom continues the lake-inspired theme, featuring a headboard crafted by Kirk from old oars and ceiling fans with blades resembling Chris-Craft propellers. It also includes a bench handcrafted by Kirk’s father.

The Cuevas couple also designed their home with guest comfort in mind.

Near the main level guest bedroom, a coffee nook with a private water cooler offers a convenient retreat. Another favorite space is a study the Cuevases call the Captain’s Book Nook – a cozy escape complete with pocket doors that has become a guest favorite to relax and unwind.

“People just gravitate to and love this area,” Kirk said.

As a realtor, Alicia’s passion for staging and design shines throughout the home. Many furnishings and accents were sourced locally, with frequent trips to Tippy Canoe and Jess & Gray Living in Alexander City. From lighting fixtures to century-old tables and antique fishing baskets – one of Alicia’s favorite collectibles – the home is a showcase of history and memories.

Downstairs, what was originally thought to be only available as a crawl space was reimagined into a bunkroom for the grandchildren, complete with a storm shelter. Kirk hopes the space will one day also double as a golf simulator room.

Collected pieces and antiques are woven throughout the home

Perhaps the most meaningful details are the ones hidden behind the walls. Before the drywall went up, the Cuevases invited 10 close friends, including O’Kelley and Maxey, to write their favorite Bible verses on the home’s beams. They also tucked their wedding Bible into the ceiling of the lower level, directly beneath the front entry, before sealing it off.

“It’s placed so when you walk into the home, you’re stepping on the Word,” Kirk said. “And if you’re in a storm, it’s over your head.”

Outside, landscaping designed by Rip Weaver frames an expansive backyard where grandchildren can play while a small beach area with palm trees and a bonfire pit creates a gathering spot for evenings by the water. Alicia also incorporated a garden potting station area, where she looks forward to teaching her grandchildren about horticulture.

From personal design elements to meaningful décor, the couple’s Lake Martin retreat is a reflection of their faith, friendships and family.

Sitting in the living room, Kirk and Alicia have a framed photo of their nephew and his wife at Kowaliga – a sentimental reminder of the day that set the Cuevas’ Lake Martin story in motion.

Rough-cut pine beams and Chris-Craft–inspired ceiling fans define the primary bedroom

NATURE OF THE LAKE

BY KENNETH BOONE

Despite its bright appearance, the blue coloring is an illusion

Indigo

Bunting

From fence posts to forest edges, nature's sapphire brings color and melody to backyards and fields

TThere are not too many predominantly blue-colored birds in the Alabama woods: blue jays, eastern bluebirds, blue grosbeaks, cerulean warblers and indigo buntings are about it. Several others wear some blue, like common grackles, rock pigeons and a number of swallows, and some birds are kind of bluegray, like great blue herons, belted kingfishers and red-breasted nuthatches. There are even some violet-blue birds out there like purple martins and purple gallinules.

But true blue – you can count them on one hand. And one of the bluest is the male indigo bunting during the spring and summer breeding season.

These resplendent birds are almost completely covered in differing shades of blue, with the exception of some dark gray or black wing and tail feathers and gray beaks and feet. They are so brightly colored that some people call them “blue canaries.”

Female indigo buntings are plain old brown, with a lighter-colored throat. Some females may have a little blue on their lower body, wings or tail. Immature indigo buntings, and males during the fall and winter, are also brown, possibly with some blue streaks. Interestingly, indigo buntings do not actu-

ally have blue feathers – and no other “blue” bird does either – because birds are not able to make blue pigments. Feathers appear blue because microscopic protein molecules called keratin, which are built into their feathers along with minuscule pockets of air, refract and reflect blue light. According to the Smithsonian Institution, if you grind a blue feather into dust, the dust is brown or colorless because the keratin structures are destroyed – there’s no blue pigment.

These songbirds can be up to 5.5 inches long with a wingspan of up to almost 9 inches, close to the size of a sparrow. They have short tails and stout, coneshaped bills.

The indigo bunting’s breeding range covers the eastern half of the U.S. up into southern Canada, as well as the southwestern U.S. all the way to eastern California. These little songbirds are famous for their nighttime migrations, and they spend the winters down south in warmer areas like southern Mexico, Central America and northern South America, islands in the Caribbean and the southern tip of Florida.

Despite their small size, indigo buntings are long-distance fliers, and many cross the Gulf of Mexico – at least 600 miles, potentially without stopping –twice each year. They migrate at night and use the stars to navigate their way across the sea, and the total distance some indigo buntings travel is 1,200 miles per migration.

Indigo buntings like to hang out on the edges of the forest, in open woods and fields and swampy areas where weeds are thick and the landscape is bushy.

It is in these areas where the birds hunt for a wide range of foods, from berries and seeds to insects like grasshoppers, caterpillars, beetles and spiders.

Male indigo buntings spend huge amounts of time singing to mark their territory and attract a mate during the spring and summer. They typically perch on a tree, fence post or another high location to sing. These songbirds call roughly 60 times an hour – an average of once a minute – for the whole day, and even more frequently right after dawn. The songs are complex and undulating and can last for about two seconds.

Indigo bunting mothers do all the family work, from nest building to incubating eggs to feeding the chicks and cleaning out the nest. These birds may have more than one brood during a summer, sometimes switching mates in the same season. Females lay one to four eggs that hatch about two weeks later. The chicks leave the nest about two weeks after they hatch. Sometimes, if a female starts a second nesting attempt quickly, the father will help feed the youngsters.

The oldest recorded age of an indigo bunting was a banded bird found in Ohio that was at least 13 years, 3 months old, though the average life span is closer to two to three years.

Some information for this article came from Cornell University’s All About Birds, The National Audubon Society, the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, the Smithsonian Institution and the University of Michigan’s Animal Diversity Web.

Males

100 YEAR EVENT CELEBRATIONS

Lake Martin commemorates its centennial with a yearlong lineup of special events

welcome a slate of new events this year

LLake Martin turns 100 this year, and the community is marking the centennial milestone with an exciting yearlong series of unique events and tributes to honor the lake’s legacy.

Led by Explore Lake Martin, the centennial initiatives are focused on bringing the community together through meaningful celebrations in collaboration with local leadership.

Behind the scenes, planning efforts are being led by Sandra Fuller, president and CEO of Explore Lake Martin; Steve Robinson, president and CEO of the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce; and Vivian Autry of the Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Chamber of Commerce, among others.

“Lake Martin isn’t just where I live,” Autry said. “It’s where my story began. My grandparents had one of the very first Russell cabins on the lake, and I’ve spent my entire life watching this place grow and evolve. To celebrate 100 years of Lake Martin is to honor the families, memories and generations that shaped it. I truly can’t imagine calling anywhere else home.”

As Lake Martin turns 100, the calendar ahead is filled with events that invite everyone to take part in the milestone.

100-Year Centennial Virtual Fishing Tournament

Cast a line into Lake Martin history with the Centennial Virtual Fishing Tournament – a 100-day challenge that ties in one of the lake’s signature pastimes with tradition.

Hosted by OGS Tournaments and presented by the Lake Martin Resource Association, the virtual fishing tournament is set to kick off March 1, traditionally known as “Plug Day,” and end June 9, the anniversary of the dam closure in 1926.

For a $35 entry fee, anglers can compete for cash prizes up to $5,000 by submitting photos of their biggest bass and crappie catches on Explore Lake Martin’s website. Sponsored by Lake Martin Machine Gun and Sylacauga Maine & ATV, this tournament is an exciting way to celebrate 100 years of Lake Martin with a rod in hand.

100-Year Celebration Coloring Book

Beginning in March, restaurants throughout the community will carry limited-edition coloring books, offering children a fun and creative way to learn about Lake Martin’s story. The books also promote lake stewardship, featuring seven simple principles focused on leaving no trace behind and keeping the shorelines clean – helping kids learn how to care for the lake, hiking trails and communities they love.

Lake Martin Dragon Boat Festival

Celebrate the centennial with a day of exciting, familyfriendly fun as Lake Martin hosts its first-ever Dragon Boat Race April 18.

Launching from the beach at Wind Creek State Park,10-

A virtual fishing tournament kicks off the event series

person teams will set off to race in colorful dragon boats, paced by the rhythmic beat of a drum. Each registered team will be provided with boats, drummers and practice sessions prior to the race, making the event a fun experience for both first timers and seasoned competitors.

In addition, the shorelines of the state park will come alive with team tents, live music and food trucks for a festive celebration, with proceeds benefiting a local 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Hosted by Explore Lake Martin, in partnership with the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce and Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Chamber, the race will also be the first time the two communities have teamed up to bring a thrilling, shared event to the lake.

More details and registration information are avail able at explorelakemartin.com.

Tallapoosa River Cleanup Event

In celebration of the centennial, the Lake Martin Resource Association will host a late-spring trash cleanup along the Tallapoosa River, giving partici pants the chance to see the rare Cahaba lilies in bloom while making a lasting impact.

State of the Lake Event

The Alexander City Chamber of Commerce will host the State of the Lake event May 28, highlighting the origins of Lake Martin and its lasting impact on the region.

Dadeville’s 100-Year Birthday Summer

BBQ Social

Dadeville’s beloved annual summer tradition returns this year with plans

to make it bigger than ever before for the 100-year Lake Martin celebration.

This year’s Summer BBQ Social will take place June 11, featuring live music, Southern hospitality and a delicious menu of barbecue inspired dishes and refreshments. Held in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, this ticketed event brings community members and local businesses together for a fun-filled evening.

Of course, no birthday celebration is complete without a cake. The Lake Martin-Dadeville Area Chamber will have a grandiose, larger-than-life sized cake topped with 100 candles to celebrate the centennial milestone with the community.

Alexander City Sun Fest

Alexander City’s signature Sun Festival will kick off June 5 with a series of communitywide events. In celebration of Lake Martin’s 100th anniversary, the festival will conclude with a grand finale highlighting both the lake and the nation’s 250th anniversary June 12 and 13.

Russell Lands' Fourth of July Concert & Fireworks Show

As one of Lake Martin’s signature events, this year’s Fourth of July Fireworks and Concert at The AMP will be a showstopper visitors won’t want to miss.

A highlight of the holiday weekend, the show draws thousands to the shorelines of Lake Martin each year for an unforgettable night of

Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival

The Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival is gearing up for its sixth annual event, bringing award-winning artists to venues across the Lake Martin region. The four-day festival will be held July 23-26, showcasing a variety of musical talent free to the community. It will bring big name acts to iconic locations, including Martin’s at Lake Martin, Chuck’s Marina, Lake Martin Pizza Co., BoonDocks at Bay Pine and more. The grand finale will be held as a ticketed event at The AMP.

For the 100 year celebration, the Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival plans to make this year’s event bigger and better than ever before, with a special centennial emphasis.

Renew Our Rivers

Lake Martin Resource Association will host its annual Renew Our Rivers cleanup event November 6 and 7. To mark the centennial year, LMRA will also present Lake Martin and national commemorative gifts to participants.

100-Year Community Events

From sailing regattas to cleanup initiatives, the centennial celebration will continue throughout the year alongside many of the area’s signature community events. In Alexander City, the milestone will also align with the community’s observance of the 250th anniversary of the United States, offering a shared theme of reflection and celebration.

Individuals and businesses will be invited to apply to use the official 100-year logo for their own events through Explore Lake Martin’s website.

For more information or to view the full lineup of centennial events, visit explorelakemartin.com.

Alexander City Chamber of Commerce plans to hold a State of the Lake event

Lake Martin Songwriter's Festival will be bigger than ever before

Red Thai Curry Shrimp

INGREDIENTS

4 ounces red curry paste

2 cans coconut milk

1 can bamboo shoots

1 carrot, cut into thin coin shapes (blanched)

Cauliflower, broken into bite-sized pieces (blanched)

1 large yellow onion, chopped

1 to 2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced

1 container shiitake mushrooms, sliced

Snow peas, cleaned and quickly blanched

A handful of spinach

1 container Thai basil

2 to 3 cups jasmine rice (1 cup rice to 2 cups water)

Cleaned shrimp (amount as desired)

DIRECTIONS

FOR THE RICE:

Wash the jasmine rice until the water starts to become clear. Place 1 cup of rice in a cooker and add 2 cups cold water. Bring the water and rice to a boil, then reduce to low and cover for 20 to 25 minutes. Fluff with a fork. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, remove the solid fat from the top of the coconut milk and melt it down. Add the red curry paste and sauté until fragrant. Slowly add the remaining coconut milk to the pot and add the Thai basil, including leaves and stems. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, then remove and discard the basil. Sauté the bell peppers first until slightly tender. Add the onions and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Add all remaining vegetables except the spinach and cook together. Add the curry broth to the vegetables and adjust the seasoning. Add more curry paste for additional spice or coconut milk to mellow the spice. Add the spinach last, just before serving.

FOR THE SHRIMP:

Heat a sauté pan on high. Pat the cleaned shrimp dry and carefully place them in the hot pan off the heat. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then return the pan to the heat. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook until firm. Toss the shrimp with the curry. Spoon the curry into bowls and serve over the rice.

Pete McKenny, General Manager and Executive Chef at SpringHouse Restaurant, trained at four-star restaurants and Forbes four-star resorts in Ohio, Washington, Arizona and Vermont before returning to Russell Lands on Lake Martin, where he began his career as chef de cuisine at Willow Point Golf & Country Club.

CHEF'S TABLE BY PETE

MCKENNY

Loving Yourself

EEvery February we celebrate National Heart Month, reminding us that we should not wait until later in life to protect our heart. This month brings awareness to educate, encourage and motivate individuals of all ages and communities to reduce the risk of heart disease by promoting healthier lifestyle choices.

National Heart Month emphasizes that heart disease can develop slowly and silently. This awareness also promotes prevention and encourages healthy habits such as eating balanced meals, engaging in regular physical activity, managing stress and getting enough sleep to help avoid the need for future medications and procedures later in life.

HEALTHY LIVING BY

JULIE HUDSON

Schools, health care professionals and other organizations can use this month to share information about heart health, nutrition and lifestyle choices. Promoting early action at any age helps protect the heart. It’s never too early or too late to care for your heart. The goal this month is to bring communities together by providing access to health care, nutritious food and heart health resources. The heart is a very hardworking muscle that beats about 100,000

times per day. Over time, poor eating habits such as too much added sugar, salt and unhealthy fats can increase the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and other heart-related issues.

Protecting the heart is not about short-term dieting. It is about building habits that can be maintained for life and create a positive relationship with food. These habits will not only protect your heart but also improve your quality of life.

There are a few key nutrients that play an important role in keeping the heart strong. Fiber helps lower the “bad” LDL cholesterol and supports healthy digestion. Potassium (found in bananas, beans, potatoes, tomato sauce, watermelon, spinach, beets, avocados and leafy greens) helps balance sodium and supports healthy blood pressure. Omega-3 fatty acids support normal heart rhythm and reduce inflammation. Antioxidants from fruits and vegetables help protect heart cells from damage.

Heart-healthy eating should not be a mystery, and this is why awareness and education matter. It is important to avoid or limit highly processed foods high in salt, added sugars and unhealthy fats, sugary drinks, excessive sweets and frequent fast food or fried foods.

One of the biggest misconceptions about heart health is that it requires drastic changes, strict rules or giving up food you love. In reality, small, realistic steps make the biggest impact. It’s about balance, variety and consistency.

A few easy and simple suggestions to eating heart-healthy are to swap sugary drinks for water or milk most days, add a fruit or vegetable to every meal, choose whole grains more often than refined grains and snack on nuts, yogurt or fruit instead of chips or candy.

Nutrition is essential for heart health; however, this should be supported by movement, sleep, stress management and staying hydrated. Food works best with an overall healthy lifestyle.

National Heart Month is not about being perfect – it’s about making progress. The goal is to build a positive relationship with food while nourishing your heart. Each balanced meal, colorful plate and mindful choice is an investment in a stronger, healthier future.

Your heart works hard for you every day –this month, and every month, return the favor by feeding it well.

Did you know?

The foundation of a healthy plate looks colorful, balanced and is very satisfying.

n Fruits and vegetables should make up half of your plate. These are high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and support healthy blood vessels. Fresh, canned (without added sugar or salt), or frozen fruits and vegetables all count

n Whole grains like oats, brown rice, whole wheat bread and quinoa provide fiber that helps manage cholesterol levels and keeps you feeling fuller longer.

n Lean proteins such as beans, lentils, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds and lean meats help build and repair tissue. Fatty fish such as salmon or sardines contain omega-3 fats and are considered heartfriendly.

n Healthy fats are called unsaturated. These are found in avocados, olive oil, nuts and seeds and support heart health when consumed in the right amount.

CHEERS! PRIME STEAKHOUSE

Blushing Fairway

Ingredients

1 ounce Aperol

3/4 ounce pomegranate juice

Splash of simple syrup (optional, for a sweeter cocktail)

1 1/2 ounces Prosecco

Splash of club soda

Orange slice, for garnish

Directions

Add the Aperol, pomegranate juice and simple syrup to a shaker. Shake and strain into a wine or cocktail glass. Add the Prosecco. Top off with a splash of club soda and garnish with an orange slice.

F FISHING IN FEBRUARY

February on Lake Martin can be tricky, but it’s also one of the best times of the year to be fishing –especially for bass. Most of the fish are going to be in what anglers refer to as pre-spawn. It’s a time of transition as the fish work closer and closer to the spawning locations. All the while, they’re feeding heavily and building body mass to get them through the spawning phase.

This is the time of year fish will be their heaviest. For an angler, it’s a bit of a chess match since conditions are still volatile.

It’s easy as anglers to get stuck on a particular bait, location or pattern and lose sight of what often is the most important variable: weather. I learned the hard way when the Bassmaster Elite Series last visited Lake Martin. Not doing well on my home lake was a tough pill to swallow, but it also seared into my brain the impact weather has at this time of year.

Below are the four variables of weather that drive the bite in the pre-spawn.

TEMPERATURE

Look at temperatures as a trend and how that may affect the area you plan to fish. Is the water warming or cooling in the area? Shallow water temperatures will change more quickly in response to air temperature.

Cold nights can put a damper on a shallow bite, especially in flatter bays and creeks. On the flip

side, those same areas can warm quickly and turn on when temperatures are warmer. If nighttime temperatures stay relatively warm, such as 45 to 55-degree nights, that can keep the shallow bite going strong right out of the gate. Consecutive warm days in February can push the fish to the bank, even if they aren’t actively spawning yet.

SUN

Sunlight this time of year can really heat up the water quickly. Usually, the lake has more of a stain in February than any other time of year. Stained to muddy water will warm much quicker than clear water on a sunny day. If the area is stained, the fish are probably already shallower than usual. Throw in a little sun-driven heat and they will take full advantage of that warming shallow water. Picture sitting still in your car on a cool winter day, but it’s sunny. The windshield cuts off the cold, but the heat from the sun comes rolling through.

Sunlight also affects how the fish set up and can affect bait preferences. More sun means the fish will relate to cover better. A rock, stump, brush pile or dock are all great choices. They retain some heat and give the fish an object to relate to. Precision casts with a crankbait, spinnerbait or jig can make a difference on a sunny day.

Without sun, the fish are more likely to roam an area than lock down on a piece of cover. It’s often best to keep moving and fish broader areas in the

case of overcast or cloudy skies. The fish can’t see as well when challenged with off-color water and low light. Baits that appeal to all their senses can make the difference in low visibility. Bulky baits like a full-size jig and large trailer displace more water and can be more easily found. Chatterbaits and crankbaits can do the same with the addition of vibration or sound.

WIND

Wind is a major driver of the bite on Lake Martin much of the year. Wind moves plankton (what the shad eat) around, and the baitfish follow. The bass are still feeding, so they’re willing to follow the baitfish within a large area.

It also disturbs the surface and can create mudlines during drawdown. Areas that have some wind will usually be better than those without, but the wind can be challenging when trying to make precise casts. This applies to fishing cover as well as targeting suspended fish with forward sonar.

BIG CATCHES

BY GREG VINSON

Keep in mind that the wind is an advantage as long as the fish can see, feel and find your bait. If the wind is strong, it may take a larger, brighter or louder bait to get their attention. The advantage comes in the fish not being as easy to spook by the boat or a cast. They’re often more willing to travel off cover to get a bait if there’s a little chop on the surface.

No wind is not all bad in February, though. A slick

water surface lets sunlight penetrate through the water more, meaning faster warming water. Keep in mind the fish may be less willing to chase a bait in calm conditions, so quiet, precision casts with more natural-looking baits can make a difference.

RAIN

February is notorious for heavy rains in Alabama. The good news is that the rains typically occur during the later stage of a warming trend this time of year. In this case, the rain falling on the water – and more importantly, running into the lake – is going to be warmer than the lake water. All forms of aquatic life are drawn to these areas where warmer water is entering the lake. There may be some dirty water associated with these heavy rains, but if it’s warmer, it’s a good thing.

Rain is usually accompanied by low barometric pressure, which can activate a bite as well. Raindrops, clouds and usually some wind mean the fish will have a tougher time seeing the bait. If it’s been raining long enough, there will usually be some dirty water also. All of these variables make it tougher for the fish to see the bait, so it can be important to use baits that have more bulk, vibration or sound.

This February, watch the weather closely for these four factors: temperature, sun, wind and rain. As always, adjust locations and presentations to match the conditions for successful days on Lake Martin.

Greg Vinson is a full-time professional angler on the Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour. He lives in Wetumpka and grew up fishing on Lake Martin.

Love is in the air and on the courts

II believe the mental health benefits from racquet sports come from the positive distraction your mind receives from day-to-day mundane tasks. It feels very rewarding when even the most basic moves of timing and rhythm come together. It also never takes long to be reminded of the physical challenges that will boost adrenaline and increase heart rate. The combination of the mind and body working together creates an engaging experience that I believe benefits anyone’s mental and physical health.

It’s also hard not to feel some emotion when you enter the world-class Racquet Sports Complex at Willow Point. The combination of the facility’s scenic beauty of being surrounded by cathedral pines and the elevated court conditions mimic what I like to call "Green Roland Garros" – a nod to Roland Garros, where the French Open is played on the famous red clay.

THE ACE BY JOE BOBBA

While the red clay in France gets its beautiful color from crushed brick dust, offering a true sliding characteristic, our green clay is made from crushed volcanic rock and designed specifically for our climate. It offers better drainage and a faster playing characteristic without the clumpy mess on your socks and shoes.

The pickleball courts share the intimate experience for players, with dedicated private fencing on each court.

It’s been very inspiring seeing

reactions when they see the new facility for the first time.

In our first summer season hosting events, we kicked off with a tennis and pickleball mixer themed around the U.S. Open, complete with iconic Honey Deuce cocktails. We also had a blast having the first Alexander City Schools Education Foundation pickleball tournament.

With clinics growing and more groups joining to play, I’m very excited about 2026 and the excitement around the tennis and pickleball community. One of my goals as director going into our second season is to create more outlets for new players and those returning from injury to come out in a stress-free setting and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of racquet sports.

Joseph “Joe” Bobba joins Willow Point with a strong background in tennis and a deep passion for the sport. A Birmingham native, Bobba played high school tennis at Oak Mountain, earning national recognition as a top-ranked 18-and-under junior. He continued his competitive career at Faulkner State Community College (now Coastal Alabama Community College), playing No. 1 doubles and No. 2 singles. His professional career includes leadership roles as head pro at both Riverchase Country Club and Old Overton, where he worked under renowned director of tennis, Richard Harris. Bobba has guided USTA ladies teams to state and sectional titles and has helped junior players reach collegiate scholarship levels.

Beyond the court, Bobba is a proud husband

Lake Martin

Kowaliga Marina 334-397-1210

The Ridge Marina 256-397-1300

River North Marina 256-397-1500

Russell Marine Boating & Outdoors 256-397-1700

Real Island Marina 256-397-1200

Blue Creek Marina 256-825-8888

Parker Creek Marina 256-329-8550

Harbor Pointe Marina 256-825-0600

Alex City Marine 256-215-FISH

Smith's Marina - Shipwreck Sam's 256-444-8793

SpringHouse 256-215-7080

Catherine’s Market 256-215-7070

Kowaliga Restaurant 256-215-7035

Lake Martin Pizza 256-373-3337

The Burritos Corner Mexican Grill 256-307-1887

Lake Martin Storm Shelters 256-794-8075

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

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

Russell Building Supply 256-825-4256

The Stables at Russell Crossroads 256-794-1333

Kowaliga Veterinary Care 334-857-1816

Off the Beaton Path 205-994-0847

Hwy 50 Blue Creek Boat & RV Storage 334-391-0717

Lake Pointe Baptist Church 256-307-1499

Red Ridge UMC 256-825-9820

LakeScape 334-857-2443

First Baptist Church Dadeville 256-825-6232

Lakeshore Pharmacy 256-825-0063

Momentum Marine at Lake Martin 256-825-9286

Bolton Cove 256-392-7524

Singleton Marine 256-269-0088

Lake Magazine Distribution

➤ ALEXANDER CITY

Robinson Iron

Carlos

The Body Shop

Walgreens

Tallapoosa Publishers, Inc.

Jake's

Carlisle's

Emporium Wine

Cloud Nine

Shay Aesthetics

JR'S

Hillabee Towers

Senior Nutrition Center

George Hardy

Dark Insurance

Warren Appliance

MainStreet Family Care

Grace's Flowers

Koon's Korner

Larry's General Merchandise

Valley Bank - 280

Pricare

Temple Medical

Hometown Pharmacy

Allen's Food Mart (Exxon)

Karen Channell - State Farm

Insurance

North Lake Condo

River Bend Store

River North Marina

Mark King's Lake Martin Furniture

Longleaf Antique Mall

Chamber of Commerce

Re/Max Around the Lake

City Hall

Regions Bank

Renfroe's Market

Russell Medical Center

Russell Marine Boating and Outdoors

Jackson's Drugs

The Sure Shot

Shell - 280

Big B Bar-B-Que

Russell Do It Center

Russell Home Decor

Satterfield Inc.

Tippy Canoe

Wind Creek Gate

Wind Creek Store

Willow Point Office

Willow Point Country Club

Smith Marina on Lake Martin

Nails

Kowaliga Marina

Kowaliga Restaurant

Children's Harbor

Catherine's Market

Russell Lands Corporate Office

Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center

SpringHouse Restaurant

Ridge Club

The Ridge Marina

River Bank

Alex City Public Library

Picket Fence

The Square

Hainey’s

TR Group

Fanny’s

Alex City Marine

Super 8

Citgo (HWY 22)

Hampton Inn

Bone & Joint Specialists

Dr. Sublett

Days Inn

Jet Pep/Mobil Gas Station

Sunrise Docks

Medicine Express

Central State Bank

Dr Mackey

Heritage South Credit Union

BeYOUtiful Salon

Lake Martin Pizza Co

Alex City Airport

Court House Annex

➤ DADEVILLE

Chamber of Commerce

Ellaby Boutique, LLC

Alabama Power

Siggers

Dadeville Library

Dadeville Courthouse

Valley Bank

McKelvey Chevrolet

Renfroe's Market

Lakeshore Pharmacy

Russell Building Supply

Lakay's

Farmers & Merchants Bank

Jim's Pharmacy

Poplar Dawgs

Still Waters Country Club

Still Waters Home Association

Russell Lands Realty

Harbor Pointe

Oskar's

Creekside Lodge

Blue Creek Marina

Niffer's Place

Hwy 50 Eagle

Millstone Japanese Maple Nursery

Chuck's Marina

Deep Water Docks

Lake Martin Pizza

Bay Pines Marina

City Hall

Payne’s Furniture

Dadeville Wellness Center

Lake Martin Realty

Lake Martin Pizza Co.

Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe

Miller’s on Broadnax

Amazin Grazin

Momentum Marina

Fawnbrook

Floyd’s Feed and Seed

Moore’s Hardware

The Grand Bakery

The Cart Source

NolaBama

Holiday Shores Grocery

Lake Martin Community Hospital

➤ EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart

Southern Star

Real Island Marina

Parker Creek Marina

➤ ECLECTIC

Offshore Marina

Lake Martin Mini Mall

LakeScape

Cotton's Alabama Barbecue

Russell Do It Center

Johnson Furniture

Eclectic Library

Anchor Bay Marina

Lake Martin Machine Gun

First Community Bank

Kowaliga General Store

Lake Martin Reflections

➤ WETUMPKA

Wetumpka Herald Office

First Community Bank

➤ TALLASSEE

Marathon

Tallassee Eagle

Tallassee Chamber

First Community Bank

1220 Cafe

MaePops

Louie’s Chicken Fingers

Community Hospital

Guardian Credit Union

Red Hill Gallery

Get Lake magazine delivered to your mailbox for just $75 per year. To start your subscription, call Baily Terry at 256-234-4281.

"Love doesn't make the world go round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile." ~ Franklin P. Jones

Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits

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

The Act eliminated both the GPO (Government Pension Offset) and the WEP (Windfall Elimination Provision). Those provisions previously reduced retirement benefits and either reduced or eliminated spousal, divorced spouse, widow or widower, and divorced widow or widower benefits of those with pensions or retirement accounts resulting from non-covered employment. If you are in this position, you probably know who you are.

In addition, more than 95% of Social Security recipients don’t maximize their benefits, according to a study by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. Over 40% of Americans file at age 62, minimizing their benefits if they live into their eighties. By minimizing their benefits, Americans are missing out on tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of dollars of benefits, if not more, according to Larry Kotlikoff, author of a best-selling book on maximizing social security benefits that was published in 2015. The problem with maximizing Social Security benefits is how complicated it has become and is likely to remain so for the next several years

There are big changes to Social Security in 2026. Congress passed a law called the Social Security Fairness Act which could increase Social Security benefits for many Americans, which President Biden signed into law. If some of your career was spent working in non-Social Security covered employment, you are probably eligible to collect higher, sometimes substantially higher Social Security benefits, which are based on your own covered work or that of a current or ex-spouse, living or deceased.

On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, from noon to 1:30 p.m., Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. (MWM) will conduct a complimentary and without obligation “Maximizing Social Security” webinar. There will be both a live and recorded version. If you would like to be included in the webinar, please call the Moore Wealth Management office for further information or reservations at 334.270.1672, or email sarah@moorewealthmanagement.com. If you miss the webinar, we also offer free consultations that are without obligation.

In addition to explaining the new Social Security Fairness Act, the workshop will also cover how the Social Security system works in general. Specifically, the workshop will discuss different techniques to maximize Social Security including when and how to file, how to lessen taxes on Social Security, and special rules that impact widows and widowers, divorcees and spousal benefits. It pays to know how to maximize your benefits.

Susan Clayton Moore, J.D., is a financial advisor and wealth manager of Moore Wealth Management, Inc., with offices Montgomery and Alexander City, AL. Susan has over $150 million in

assets (as of 9.1.24) under management through Kestra Financial and has been a financial planner for over 40 years. Contact Susan at 256.234.2761. Email contact is  susan@moorewealthmanagement.com.

The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Kestra Investment Services, LLC or Kestra Advisory Services, LLC. This is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney or tax advisor regarding your individual situation. Securities offered through Kestra Investment Services, LLC (Kestra IS), member FINRA/ SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through Kestra Advisory Services, LLC (Kestra AS), an affiliate of Kestra IS. Kestra IS or Kestra AS are not affiliated with Moore Wealth Management, Inc. https://bit.ly/KF-Disclosures