Lake Magazine July 2026

Celebrate 250 years of America & 100 years of Lake Martin

GET OUT INTO THE WILD

Eco-adventures at Wind Creek State Park

DIXIE SAILING CLUB YOUTH CAMP

Inspiring the next generation of sailors

editor's LETTER

TThis July is perhaps one of the most monumental summers that many of us will see in our lifetime – and of course, that calls for celebration.

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary and Lake Martin its centennial milestone, I began to reminisce on all of the classic Fourth of July traditions enjoyed at the lake: grilling hot dogs and hamburgers near the dock, catching the patriotic boat parade, spending long days cruising across the lake before settling in for a stunning sunset.

And, of course, the Fourth of July wouldn’t be complete without the grand finale: fireworks.

For generations, the dazzling bursts of fireworks have brought friends and family together, gathering along piers, boats and shorelines to watch them well into the night. While the annual Fourth of July celebration at The AMP has become one of the lake’s most iconic traditions, the history of Lake Martin fireworks actually began decades earlier.

as 4 learn the fundamentals of sailing while building confidence and a love for the sport. Turn to page 28 to see how the camp is inspiring the next generation of sailors.

Whether you’re setting sail, pulling a tube or simply enjoying a sunset cruise, safety is always part of the adventure. Before leaving the dock, most boaters run through a quick checklist: fuel, navigation lights, horn and, of course, life jackets.

Long gone are the days when a single orange life preserver hanging in the boathouse was considered enough. Today’s life jackets are designed for specific activities, ages and comfort levels, making it easier than ever to find the right fit. Turn to page 34 to learn how to choose the best life jacket for you.

Dating back to the 1950s, Fourth of July festivities began with a highly anticipated boat race and ended with the famous fireworks display hosted by the Blount family, who are credited with establishing the tradition at Lake Martin.

But that little bit of local history made me wonder: Why do we celebrate Independence Day with fireworks?

As a staple of Fourth of July celebrations across the country, I began looking into the history of fireworks. Dating back more than two centuries, the roots of this tradition are far more fascinating than I imagined. Read more on page 64.

Of course, summer at Lake Martin is as much about family traditions as it is about adventure and time spent outdoors.

For more than a decade, Dixie Sailing Club has been introducing young sailors to life on the water through its annual Youth Sailing Camp. Children as young

Then, step into the wild outdoors with Wind Creek State Park naturalist Dylan Ogle. From guided hikes and herpetology encounters to educational boat tours, Ogle is bringing interactive ecoadventures to Lake Martin. Read more on page 44.

Summer also brings a new flavor as the world’s first fig and apple liqueur makes its debut right here at Lake Martin. On page 38, read the inspiring story of Karen Schmidt, who, through a stroke of luck and a little bit of fate, discovered the perfect recipe behind awardwinning Six13.

As we gather on docks, watch for shooting stars and celebrate the milestones that connect generations of families, we hope this issue sparks moments of inspiration and adventure that make this one unforgettable summer at Lake Martin

Fourth of July is one of Lake Martin's most beloved traditions, dating back to the 1950s. As America celebrates its 250th anniversary and Lake Martin marks its centennial year, Russell Lands plans to make this year's fireworks show at The AMP its most spectacular yet.

Shaylee Beck Moore Editor-in-Chief

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ATLAS ONE SERIES

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

Audience Development Manager

BAILY TERRY baily.terry@alexcityoutlook.com

Marketing RENEE TRICE renee.trice@alexcityoutlook.com

ERIN VICKERS erin.vickers@alexcityoutlook.com

ABBIE CLAYTON abbie.clayton@alexcityoutlook.com

OLIVIA THIGPEN olivia.thigpen@alexcityoutlook.com

Contributors

KENNETH BOONE

AUDRA SPEARS

SAM VISE

JULIE HUDSON

GREG VINSON

PETE MCKENNY

STEVE ARNBERG

HENRY FOY

LIZI ARBOGAST

SAMUEL HIGGS

CLIFF WILLIAMS

GWEN BISHOP

SARAH CHASE

ANA SOFIA MEYER

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

Dixie Sailing Club hosts its annual youth camp, building camaraderie and love for the sport in the next generation.

More than a mandatory accessory, discover how the right life jacket can make any day on the lake safe and more enjoyable.

Inspired by a stroke of luck, the world's first fig and apple liqueur makes its debut at Lake Martin.

Naturalist Dylan Ogle brings exciting eco-adventures to the Lake Martin community.

Explore the history behind fireworks and Lake Martin's beloved Fourth of July traditions.

The Lake Martin Summer Photo Scavenger Hunt

Lake Martin summers are filled with memories and adventures worth capturing. This summer, challenge yourself to experience some of the lake's most iconic sights and traditions. Then, share your favorite photos with LAKE – they just might appear in an upcoming issue. Submit entries to editor@lakemartinmagazine.com.

Iconic Lake Martin Stops

n Chimney Rock

n Peanut Point

n Pirate Island

n Big Beach

On the Water

n Jumping off a dock

n Tubing behind a boat

n Wakeboarding or waterskiing

n Children or pets on boat rides

Events & Entertainment

n Lake Martin Poker Run

n Friday On The Green

n Concert at The AMP

Dining & Desserts

n A Bushwacker

n Yellow Top Ice Cream Shop

n The Kowaliga Indian

Fourth of July Favorites

n Best themed boat in parade

n Fireworks over the water

n Patriotic lake attire

n A bald eagle

Outdoor Adventures

n Hiking a CRATA trail

n Climbing a fire tower

n Wind Creek State Park

n Zip-lining

n Geocaching

Classic Lake Memories

n Lake Martin sunrise or sunset

n Friends and family on a dock

n Summer thunderstorm

n Fishing from the shoreline

n Swimming in the lake

Lake Martin Area Real Estate Indicators

Last Month's Lake Levels

➤ Highest: 490.50

➤ Lowest: 490.34

Summer: 491 MSL

Winter: 481 MSL

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.

July Weather Outlook

July 2026 Forecast

Historically, the Lake Martin area experiences average high temperatures in the low 90s with average lows in the high 60s and about 5.21 inches of precipitation in the month of July. The National Weather Service has predicted that temperatures will be slightly higher than average and rainfall will be average this month.

Year-to-Date

Our Normal

Precipitation: 5.21 inches

READER SUBMISSIONS

(1) A brilliant red sunrise over Lake Martin, captured by Tony Johnson. (2) A family of geese spotted enjoying a swim at Lake Martin. Photo submitted by Tony Johnson. (3) Molly Moncrief and John Dennis pose for prom photos. (4) Jimmy Miller snapped this gorgeous sunset (5) BRHS seniors Brodie Holman and Covyn Holt posed for prom pictures at The Stables. (6) It was full sail ahead on the first day of youth camp at Dixie Sailing Club. Photo submitted by Jim Simons.

Send us your Lake Scene photos! Email editor@ lakemartinmagazine.com or drop a photo on our facebook page.

READER SUBMISSIONS

(1) Jan Hare caught a lightening strike near Bluffs Daiquiri Bar at StillWaters. (2) Brandy Barnes shared one of her favorite 2024 summer memories from Boondocks. (3) Horseshoe Bend students Raylan Odom and Ethan Cosby took prom pictures at Russell Crossroads. (4) Macie Hall sent us a pic of Darbie enjoying a day on the dock (5) A peaceful sunrise at Children's Harbor. Photo submitted by Kyle Thornton. (6) Bailey and Bentley love boat rides and Lake Martin sunsets. Photo by April Fister.

Send us your Lake Scene photos! Email editor@ lakemartinmagazine.com or drop a photo on our facebook page.

July

3

250-Minute Celebration

Join the Dadeville community at Keebler Park for a 250-minute celebration representing the 250 years of the nation. From 8 a.m. to 12:10 p.m., the park will come alive with old-school heritage demonstrations like quilting and caning, alongside fun games and prizes. Vendors offering handmade or traditional crafts are invited to participate. For more details, contact Elaine Forbus at eforbus@dadeville.org.

July 3

Alexander City Celebrate Freedom

Kick off the patriotic festivities with the annual Alexander City Celebrate Freedom. From 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., the field at the former Benjamin Russell High School will transform into a hub of inspiration and patriotic pride. This year’s lineup features headliner Rhett Walker, alongside the sounds of Belle Isle Worship and Cline. The night closes with a massive fireworks display by the worldrenowned Pyrotechnico, synchronized to live music. Grab lawn chairs and bring the whole family for a salute that kicks off the holiday weekend in style. Visit the Alexander City Celebrate Freedom Facebook page for more details.

July 3

begins at 10 a.m. at the HOA parking lot with a powerful rendition of the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance before the procession winds its way through the neighborhood. While the carts are driven by residents, all are welcome to line the streets and join in the festivities.

July 4

Fourth of July Boat Parade

Get your flags flying for one of Lake Martin’s most colorful traditions. Hosted by Russell Marine, the Fourth of July Boat Parade kicks off at Kowaliga Marina at 10 a.m., heading toward Children’s Harbor in a sea of red, white and blue. Cash prizes will be awarded for Tallest Flag, Largest Flag, Most Creative Theme and Most Patriotic Crew. For more information, call Kowaliga Marina at 256-3971210.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON LAKE MARTIN

Independence Day Party

Kick off Independence Day weekend with an evening of live music, great food and patriotic fun at Martin’s at Lake Martin. The Buck Wild Band takes the stage at 8:30 p.m., bringing high-energy entertainment to start the holiday celebration. Guests can enjoy food trucks, frozen drinks and festive treats while soaking in the lakeside atmosphere. Visit Martin’s Facebook page for more details.

July

4

StillWaters Golf Cart Parade

The streets of StillWaters are trading fairways for flags as the annual StillWaters Golf Cart Parade returns, promising its biggest turnout yet. The celebration

July 4

Eclectic

Fourth of July Celebration

The Town of Eclectic invites the community to a patriotic celebration at Aaron Park this Fourth of July. Starting at 4:30 p.m., this family-friendly Independence Day spectacular will feature food trucks, games, bounce houses, live music and a fireworks finale. For more information, visit townofeclectic.com.

July 4

Fourth of July Concert & Fireworks at The AMP

Head to The AMP for a historic holiday saluting 250 years of the U.S.A. and 100 years of Lake Martin. Local favorites The Bank Walkers kick things off at 6:30 p.m., followed by the electrifying band, Fly By Radio. After the National Anthem at 9 p.m., prepare for the Southeast’s largest fireworks display, designed to be bigger and bolder than ever before. Tickets are $10. Visit russelllands.com/events for more details or to purchase tickets.

July 13-16

DPAC Kids Summer Camp

The Dadeville Performing Arts Center is inviting

young performers to join “The Clover Club,” a festive 1920s-themed summer camp. Each four-day session offers hands-on instruction in music, drama, dance and crafts, with lunch provided daily. Designed for children ages 7 to 10, the camp concludes with a special showcase for family and friends. Group 1 will meet July 13-16 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the final show on July 16 at 12:15 p.m. There is no cost for Tallapoosa County residents. Parents must provide transportation. Register at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com/classes.

July 17-19

“Winnie The Pooh” Kids Musical

Go on a musical journey through the Hundred Acre Woods as Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Tigger and friends try to rescue Christopher Robin from a mysterious creature. Presented by Alexander City Theatre II, this children’s musical is free to attend – donations accepted at the door. Show begins at 6 p.m. July 17 and 18 and 2 p.m. July 19 at the former Benjamin Russell High School. See ACT II’s Facebook page for more details.

July 18

Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run

Go all in for a great cause at the 23rd annual Lions Lake Martin Poker Run, hosted by Russell Marine. Beginning at 8 a.m., navigate the waters from Kowaliga Marina to The Ridge Marina, collecting cards for a chance at bigger-than-ever cash prizes. Prizes for Best Crew stretch from first to sixth place. Winners will be announced at The Ridge Marina at 4 p.m. (winners must be present). With the $200 entry fee covering two box lunches, a boat flag and a haul of summer gear, it’s the best bet on the lake for a Saturday well spent. Visit russellmarine.net/events for more information..

July 20-23

DPAC Kids Summer Camp

The Dadeville Performing Arts Center is inviting young performers to join “The Clover Club,” a festive 1920s-themed summer camp. Each four-day session offers hands-on instruction in music, drama, dance and crafts, with lunch provided daily. Designed for children ages 7 to 10, the camp concludes with a special showcase for family and friends. Group 2 will meet July 20-23 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the final show on July 23 at 12:15 p.m. There is no cost for Tallapoosa County residents. Parents must provide transportation. Register at dadevilleperformingartscenter.com/classes.

July 23-26

Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival

Strum up a good time at the 6th Annual Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival. This Grammy-recognized event will feature talented songwriters from across the Southeast, performing at multiple venues throughout the Lake Martin area. From intimate acoustic sets to

lively outdoor shows, there’s something for every music lover. For the full live music schedule and participating venues, visit the Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival Facebook page or lakemartinsongwritersfestival.com.

July 25

Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival at The AMP featuring Marcus King Band

The Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival reaches its crescendo with a powerhouse benefit concert at The AMP. Hitmaker Jeffrey Steele starts the evening at 6 p.m., followed by support from Charlie Argo and a headlining set by the Marcus King Band. Beyond the incredible music, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the local community as part of the Lake Martin Centennial Celebration. Visit lakemartincentennial.com for more details or to purchase tickets.

July 29

Pat Cunningham Devoto Book Discussion at the

Dadeville Public Library

Author Pat Cunningham Devoto will discuss her new nonfiction book, “Bookin’ In the Big House,” at 1 p.m. at the Dadeville Public Library. Drawing from seven years leading a women’s prison book club at the Montgomery Women’s Facility, Devoto shares surprising, humorous and eye-opening stories from her experience. For more details, contact the library at 256825-7820 or dadevillelibrary@gmail.com.

August 1

Woodland Crafting

Join the Wind Creek State Park naturalist at the Clubhouse for a crafting session designing clay box turtles. Starting at noon, this event is $5 and designed for all ages. For more details, contact the park naturalist at dylan.ogle@dcnr.alabama.gov or 256-827-9540.

August 2

Back to School S’mores

Send summer off with a sweet treat at Wind Creek State Park. Join the park naturalist by the campfire outside the Clubhouse at 5 p.m. for free s’mores, good company and one last taste of summer before the school year begins. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors. Contact the naturalist at 256-329-0845 for more details.

August 7

U.S. The Band at Martin’s

Enjoy an American summer night at Martin’s at Lake Martin, featuring live music from U.S. The Band. This high-energy performance pairs great music with cold drinks and lakeside fun, with an optional steak dinner available for guests looking to make it a complete evening. General admission tickets are $25, or $65 with steak dinner included. Tickets are available via Eventbrite.

August 8

Evening Hike on the Speckled Snake Trail

Experience Wind Creek State Park at night on a guided hike along the Speckled Snake Trail. Join the park naturalist at 5 p.m. at the trailhead near the Boat Launch Parking Lot for a scenic 4-mile trek through hilly terrain. Bring water, comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure as you explore the sights and sounds of the outdoors. Recommended for ages 12 and older. Park entrance fees apply to day visitors.

August 14

Local Herp Encounter

Hop on over to the Clubhouse at Wind Creek State Park at 5 p.m. for a close-up look at local reptiles and amphibians. For more information, contact dylan.ogle@ dcnr.alabama.gov.

August 23

Wrygrass Reunion

Wrygrass is coming back to the Dadeville Performing Arts Center for a bluegrass performance. Show begins at 3 p.m. Admission by donation to support DPAC community programs. Visit dadevilleperformingartscenter.com for more details.

September 4 & 5

Labor Day Weekend Music Festival

Wind down the summer season with Russell Lands’ annual Labor Day Weekend Music Festival at Russell Crossroads. From 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. both nights, the Town Green will feature a star-studded lineup that is sure to have attendees dancing alongside the fireflies. Admission is free. Visit russelllands.com/events for more details.

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.

Friday On The Green

Every Friday night all summer long (with the exception of Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival and Labor Day weekend), Russell Lands hosts free music and lawn games on the Town Green from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, coolers, kids and the pup on a leash to start your weekend at the lake with family and friends. Visit russelllands.com/events for the full line up.

Music in the Air at Zazu’s Verandah

Enjoy free live music every Thursday evening at Zazu’s Verandah, located on the Dadeville Square. The series runs through July 30, with performances from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m., and guests ages 21 and older are welcome. Tips for musicians are appreciated. Charcuterie snack trays, serving two, are available for pre-order for $16 by calling 256-307-2188. For more information, visit zazusverandah.com.

Yoga On The Green

Join the Yoga gang Saturday mornings at 7 a.m. on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Yoga On The Green is designed for all levels from beginner to advanced, led by certified instructors. It is free to participate; all you need to bring is your mat and water bottle. For more details, visit russelllands.com/events.

Acoustic Jam Session

Acoustic musicians of all skill levels are invited to gather on the second Saturday of each month to share music in a fun and welcoming environment. The acoustic jam session is free, and the public is invited to attend, listen or join in. The event takes place at 128 N. Broadnax Street in Dadeville. For more information, contact office@dadevilleperformingartcenter.com.

Evening Stroll at Wind Creek State Park

Join Wind Creek State Park naturalist Dylan Ogle for an evening stroll down the Speckled Snake Trail each Sunday. Guests will embark at 5 p.m. for a 4-mile hike. It is recommended to bring snacks, bug spray and a flashlight. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors. Contact dylan.ogle@dcnr.alabama.gov for more information.

Alexander City Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday through July 25 between 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., Broad Street comes alive with local farmers and artisans. Get the best picks of the season and support local while enjoying a morning in the heart of downtown Alexander City.

Lake Martin Civitan Club

The Lake Martin Civitan Club meets at noon in the boardroom at Lake Martin Innovation Center at 175 Aliant Parkway in Alexander City on the second Tuesday of each month. For more information, contact Dee Lewallen at 256-827-9673.

Clean Community Partnership Cleanups

Volunteers meet at Strand Park in Alexander City at 8:30 a.m. to pick up supplies and area assignments. For details, contact Michelle West at 256-786-0584.

Dadeville's cleanup is held on the second Saturday of the month. Volunteers can pick up supplies at 8 a.m. at Dadeville City Hall. For details, contact Mickey Forbus at 334-329-0905.

April 25th

April 25th • 10 am - 5 pm Annu A l On -WA ter

Open 7 Days a Week 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

LAKE NEWS

Alabama Power dedicates Centennial Park at Lake Martin

As Lake Martin celebrates its 100th anniversary, Alabama Power has marked the milestone by renaming one of the lake’s most popular public recreation areas and unveiling several improvements designed to enhance the visitor experience.

Community leaders, elected officials and Alabama Power representatives gathered recently to dedicate Centennial Park, formerly known as D.A.R.E. Power Park, on the shores of Lake Martin. The renaming honors both the lake’s centennial year and the century-long operation of Martin Dam, which began generating electricity in 1926.

“For a century, Lake Martin has stood as both a source of energy for the state and a gathering place for our community – providing power, recreation and a shared sense of pride,” said Terry Smiley, vice president of Alabama Power’s Eastern Division. “It has been central to the memories of families across Alabama and reminds us of how much can grow out of partnership.”

The park, which first opened in 1997, remains the only location on Lake Martin where visitors can access the water by car free of charge. Amenities include a beach, pavilions, picnic tables, an adventure playground, nature trail and 60 parking spaces.

Alabama Power recreation team leader Garret Parker said the name change reflects the significance of Lake Martin’s centennial celebration while recognizing the role Martin Dam has played in powering communities across Alabama for the past century.

“Whenever it was put into service, generation of electricity in the lake was essentially created around this time too,” Parker said. “We know what Lake Martin means to the community and what the dam provides to the local community. We just wanted to freshen up the park and rename it.”

In preparation for the summer season, Alabama Power completed several upgrades throughout the park. Improvements include new Centennial Park signage, refreshed restrooms featuring touchless fixtures, updated flooring and new toiletry amenities. The park also received pressure washing, fresh playground mulch and the addition

of an automatic entry gate.

“The park would not be there without Martin Dam,” Parker said. “It has created a lot of resources for the area, and the park is something we added for the community to use. The biggest thing with the name recognition was getting folks more aware this is a big year for the lake area and the dam. It has been in operation for 100 years providing a clean, reliable, renewable source of energy.”

The park has undergone several revitalization efforts in recent years as part of Alabama Power’s strategic recreation plan. In 2020, the company added a nature trail and adventure playground through its Preserves program. Those enhancements helped increase annual attendance by 65 percent, bringing average yearly visitation to approximately 14,500 guests.

“We, at Alabama Power, are proud to have played a role in this community for 100 years, and we are proud to be able to give back to the community through recreation and shared experiences,” Smiley said. “We are honored to play a part in their memories and experiences here.”

As Lake Martin enters its second century, Alabama Power officials say Centennial Park will continue serving as a gathering place for residents and visitors while honoring the history and legacy of one of Alabama’s most treasured lakes.

Staff Report

Phase I of The Ridge Island announced

Russell Lands has announced the upcoming release of Phase 1 lots on The Ridge Island, a 150-acre island located within The Ridge community on Lake Martin. The island, originally created when the lake was formed in 1926, will eventually feature roughly 50 waterfront homesites.

Offers on Phase 1 properties will be accepted starting July 22.The initial release includes 18 lots, featuring 16 estate-sized lots averaging 1.28 acres and two-family compound lots exceeding 10 acres each.

Designed with privacy and boating access in mind, the

deep-water properties offer generous waterfront footage and access to all amenities within The Ridge.

Interested buyers can contact Russell Lands sales executives at 256-215-7011 or a Lake Martin Realty agent for additional information and property access.

Staff Report

Fire extinguished on Goat Island

Volunteer firefighters battled two fires near each other in northeastern Elmore County.

“At 4:48 p.m. (on June 14), Elmore County E911 dispatchers received a call about a fire on Goat Island,” Elmore County Sheriff Bill Franklin said. “Firefighters with Red Hill Volunteer Fire Department and Real Island Volunteer Fire Department responded.”

Franklin said the fire was under control at 8:15 p.m.

“Red Hill also worked a fire on Red Hill Road where a line came down,” Franklin said. “We are unsure if or how the two might be related.”

Goat Island was once a huge attraction because of goats living there during the summer months. No goats have been on the island in several years.

Cliff Williams

THE DU DIFFERENCE

Reeling in a Century 100-day fishing tournament celebrates Lake Martin's Centennial

STORY BY SAM VISE & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

FFor the past century, Lake Martin has served as the backdrop for countless family vacations, sunset boat rides and thrilling weekend adventures. But while the lake is often celebrated for recreational boating and water sports, local anglers know these waters belong to the fish.

To honor Lake Martin’s milestone 100th anniversary, OGS Tournaments partnered with Explore Lake Martin to launch a unique event that brought together the local angling community like never before: the

Lake Martin 100-Year Centennial Virtual Fishing Tournament.

The 100-day tournament paid homage to key historical dates, kicking off on March 1, historically known as ‘Plug Day,’ and ending on June 9, the anniversary of the Martin Dam closure. With a total of $16,000 worth of prize money, the tournament invited fishermen of all ages and skill levels to compete for glory, bragging rights and a serious payday.

OGS Tournaments itself is deeply rooted in the local community. It was originally started

by Mike Oglesby, but when he tragically passed away at a young age, the tournament trail faced an uncertain future.

Vivian Autry, Dadeville native and current owner of OGS Tournaments, stepped in during 2019 to keep Oglesby’s dream alive.

“My husband had been fishing the OGS Tournaments trail for probably two years,” Autry said. “He heard that the Oglesby family didn’t want to keep the company, but they had a lot of money invested in the equipment. So, he

thought about buying it.”

Initially skeptical, Autry began looking into the logistics and saw immense potential.

“Fishing was 100 percent the fastest-growing sport in the country in 2019,” she said. “And if I buy something, I’m going to do whatever it takes to get it to its highest potential.”

Over the next few years, OGS grew exponentially. The Autrys brought on experienced tournament director Mike Freeman, secured major sponsors and upgraded from a simple 6-foot registration table to a massive 18-wheeler trailer that sits at Wind Creek State Park year round, complete with a professional stage, sound equipment and leaderboard TVs.

(a specialized measuring tool), took a photo showing the length and uploaded it directly to the app.

The app automatically weeded through the entries, keeping each angler’s top five longest fish on a live digital leaderboard. To ensure total fairness, OGS hired Reel Tournament Fishing Management Company to meticulously review and verify each photo submitted.

Despite the professional-grade analysis behind the scenes, the virtual nature of the event opened the waters to everyone.

ing Lake Martin. Lindsay swept the bass category, taking home first place for the best five total bass length ($5,000) and winning the Big Bass prize ($2,000) with a massive individual catch, netting $7,000 in total prize money.

“I started the high school team in 2013 at Auburn High,” Lindsay said. “It just kind of advanced from there. I met a guy on the Auburn University team, and he kind of inspired me and one of my friends growing up to continue the journey.”

“Our claim to fame is that you feel like you’re in the big leagues going across the stage,” Autry said. “It looks and feels just like a Bassmaster event.”

For this year, Autry wanted to create an event that specifically celebrated Lake Martin’s centennial milestone. The result was a 100-day virtual fishing tournament, a format born out of the COVID-19 pandemic that has since turned into a wildly popular way to fish.

“The thing about a virtual tournament is they can fish when they want to,” Autry said. “Some people aren’t off on the weekends or have kids that are playing sports then. This allows you to truly fish at your convenience.”

The entry fee was kept at $35 for the entire 100 days, thanks to key community sponsors Lake Martin Resource Association, Explore Lake Martin, Lake Martin Machine Gun and Sylacauga Marine & ATV.

To participate, anglers utilized the Fishing Chaos app. Instead of bringing live fish to a physical weigh-in scale, competitors placed their catch on a bump board

“You don’t have to fish from a $100,000 boat,” Autry said. “It can be from any kind of boat you want to, it can be from a dock, it could be from a shore. We had somebody as young as 12 that fished it, and we had somebody as old as 70. It really helps bring that family aspect out.”

When the clock struck midnight on June 9, the leaderboard finalized and the top anglers gathered on Saturday, June 13, for an official awards ceremony.

The top performer of the tournament was Lucas Lindsay, an Auburn native who grew up fish-

Lindsay found success by focusing on specific sections of the lake.

“I was fishing on the upriver area, I tried to stay from Blue Creek to the Manoy and Madwind areas,” he said. “Fish where you’re comfortable and fish your strengths. If you’re not confident you’re going to get a bite on something, then don’t throw it.”

While Lindsay dominated the bass category, the tournament also featured a heavily contested crappie division. Scottie Holly took home first place for overall crappie length ($3,000) and the Big Crappie prize ($1,000).

“ We had somebody as young as 12 that fished it, and we had somebody as old as 70. It really helps bring that family aspect out...The whole idea behind the tournament is to get people outdoors and hanging out with family.”

~ Vivian Autry

Meanwhile, Clanton resident William Thornton secured an impressive second-place finish in the category, taking home $2,000.

Thornton, a lifelong fisherman, relied on a completely different strategy to lock down his wins: the night shift. To catch his prizewinning crappie, he focused his efforts around The Ridge and New Hope areas.

“I fish at night by the pier lights, that’s where I catch most of my fish,” Thornton said. “I’m an avid fisherman, I fish every weekend or every chance I get.”

Thornton described crappie as the perfect target for a community tournament.

“It’s a panfish, in between a brim and a bass, but everybody loves them,” he said. “They’re great to eat, but they’re real fun to catch.”

From the competitive drive of the anglers checking live app updates to family members cheer-

ing them on from home, the event captured the true heart of the area.

“The whole idea behind the tournament is to get people outdoors and hanging out with family,” Autry said. “We wanted to do half spring and half summer to get everyone out and explore the lake.”

As Lake Martin looks toward its next century, organizations like OGS Tournaments ensure that its rich fishing heritage will continue to thrive for generations of anglers to come.

Sailing into the Future

Dixie

SStanding on the docks of the Dixie Sailing Club on a warm June afternoon, members and visitors are not only greeted by the gentle lapping of Lake Martin’s waters and the crisp summer breeze, but by the laughter of children. High-pitched, energetic and unbothered by the blazing sun, it’s the sound of the next generation falling in love with setting sail on the water.

For more than a decade, the DSC Youth Program has been mentoring local children into confident sailors through its highly anticipated summer camps. Held over two separate sessions each summer, these three-day camps give children – some as young as 4 to 7 years old – the tools to navigate their own future on the water.

“We identified youth sailing as a way to increase participation and sailing on the lake,” said Jim Simons, president of DSCYP, DSC board member and club harbor-master.

Simons has steered the youth program since its inception in 2013.

“Typically, what happens – not just here but everywhere with sailing – is the population just gets older and older,” he said. “If we’re going to keep

sailing as a popular sport that we all appreciate, then we’d like to fill it with kids who come up in the program and continue it.”

The history of DSC itself is deeply rooted in a passion for sailing. Founded in 1962 as a “barefoot club” without a permanent home base, members originally rotated sailing between Lake Jordan and Lake Martin. The club decided Lake Martin was the better sailing lake and secured a location from Russell Lands on the east end of Kowaliga Bay.

DSC eventually settled in its current location near New Hope Church around 2010.

Through every move, the core mission has remained unchanged: to share the unique serenity of sailing with the broader community.

“When you go out sailing, there’s no motor noise,” Simons said. “You can have a conversation, and you can have this interaction with the crew, so it ends up being a social thing too. We have a phrase:

‘You get in a power boat to go somewhere, but when you get in a sailboat, that’s the destination.’”

That philosophy is exactly what the youth program instills in its students. This year, each camp session is capped at 20 children, with a remarkably

high retention rate according to Simons. About a third of the first session this year consisted of returning students, while more than half returned for the second session – some coming back for their fifth consecutive summer.

Beyond sailing techniques and terms, the camp also builds lasting camaraderie and lifelong friendships. For many of the participants, the shorelines of Lake Martin serve as an annual reunion ground.

“It’s really neat, because throughout the year they don’t see each other, but then they renew their friendships when they come back here,” Simons said. “We love seeing them laugh and joking around with each other.”

The camp structure relies on a highly focused “chalk talk” method. Each day begins with a classroom presentation on the shore, followed by ground drills and then an hour of practical application by sailing out on the water. The process repeats in the afternoon, monitored closely by four coach and safety boats.

“The kids here really amaze me; they are so bright and so interesting,” Simons said, noting how quickly they grasp the concepts.

For volunteer Norah Childers, watching the campers master the sails is a nostalgic experience. Childers represents the ultimate full-circle success story of DSC’s mission – she was one of the original children who helped start the program.

“I grew up here, and I have always been a part of the youth program,” Childers said. “Me and my siblings all started the very first youth program with a couple other kids. It was really small, like five or six of us, and now it’s grown a lot. We would do it every summer, and now I’m back to volunteer.”

Today, Childers spends her volunteer time rigging the club’s fleet of Sunfish, Lasers and Optimist (Opti) boats, lifting them down to the water and helping the campers launch into the lake.

“They’re doing really well,” Childers said. “It’s fun

seeing them learn something new, even if it’s complicated – just seeing them grasp the concept, run with it and have so much fun. I grew up on the lake sailing; it can be hard and really scary going out there for the first time, so seeing the kids be so confident and just running at it is awesome.”

While the camp is undeniably fun, the organizers prioritize safety and emphasize that the

children are also learning real-world physics and personal responsibility.

“Sailing teaches a lot of different skills,” said Steve Phillabaum, a DSC member for nearly a decade who also serves on the youth program’s board. “It puts the younger ones in charge of their destiny for what they’re going to do on the water. They’re now the captain of the boat.”

Unlike sports that children might age out of, sailing can be a lifelong pursuit. The foundational skills learned as a child sailing on Lake Martin can be carried into adulthood, providing a hobby that spans generations.

“The skills they learn aren’t just going into sailing; they’re basically STEM skills they can apply to anything in life,” Phillabaum said.

Operating as a registered 501(c)(3) organization separate from the main club, DSCYP relies heavily on a unique fundraising system fueled by boat donations to keep camp costs accessible.

“A lot of people will donate boats they’re not using or some of their older boats, and we’ll put them to use,” Phillabaum said. “Otherwise, we may take the old boats and put them up for resale. We use the funds to go back into the youth program to pay for these types of events and get the youth interested in sailing.”

As another successful camp season wraps up on Lake Martin, the leadership team is already looking toward the future. Thanks to head instructor Don Connolly who recently completed United States Sailing Level 1 Certification training in Charleston, South Carolina, the club plans to offer official small-

boat sailor certifications to advanced campers in upcoming sessions.

Eventually, the club hopes to use these advanced sailing opportunities to build a dedicated youth racing team, giving local sailors a chance to compete regionally.

But whether the campers walk away with an official certificate or just a day’s worth of wind-swept hair and the lingering feeling of the lake’s breeze, the core takeaway remains the same.

“Oh gosh, just seeing the kids laughing, having fun and when they learn that skill of sailing and it clicks – their face just lights up. That’s the best,” Phillabaum said. “I just get so excited about it every year.”

For Simons, the goal is to give Lake Martin families a lifelong anchor to the sport.

“We want these kids to have an understanding of what sailing is, and that it’s for everyone,” he said. “We want to share it with the next few generations.”

LIFE ACKETS The Vital Lake-Life Accessory:

FFor generations of families visiting Lake Martin, the traditional ritual of boating began with a predict able shuffle into a dockside storage locker or under a pontoon bench seat. Out came the sun-faded, orange canvas “horse collars” – stiff, abrasive and universally disliked, treated much like an insurance policy and hid den away until crisis struck.

But on a dynamic waterway like Lake Martin, marine professionals are shifting perspectives by treating modern personal floatation devices as highperformance, activity-specific gear rather than a legal technicality.

“Put it on the same scale as a seatbelt,” said Tyler Royal, manager of Russell Marine Aqua Charters & Adventures. “By the time you need it, it’s too late to use it. It’s super important, even if you think you’re a good swimmer. It’s not going to hurt you; it’s only going to help.”

STORY BY SAM VISE & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

Luckily, PFDs have come a long way in today’s lake scene, offering a variety of options for both functional ity and comfort.

For casual boaters navigating the gear at local mari nas, the first critical choice comes down to exterior materials: traditional nylon or high-grade neoprene. Each serves a distinct role on the water depending on temperature, airflow and exposure.

“Nylon is your old-school vest – they’re a little bit thinner material on the outside,” Royal said. “Neoprene is the same material they make wetsuits out of. It’s a

“I see a lot of parents that buy the infant life jackets or the younger kids that have to wear them the entire time they’re on the boat,” Donahoo said. “Some of

Royal said, noting that older vests often leave boaters with rolled-up, uneven foam inside the fabric after a few weekend floats.

With so many life jacket options, one might be wondering which is the ideal for day-to-day boating and watersport activities. The undisputed favorite is Type III. From kayaking and paddleboarding to fishing and wakeboarding, Type III offers different cuts and designs that tailor to individual needs.

Vests requirements change dramatically when one climbs aboard a high-performance tournament fishing boat. Professional angler Greg Vinson, a Lake Martin native, understands the fine line between athletic mobility and severe impact safety.

“My Phoenix bass boat runs around 70 miles per hour, and we end up in some pretty wild conditions sometimes,” Vinson said. “It’s very possible to get thrown out of the boat if something goes wrong. Because of that, competitive anglers generally rely on two distinct styles depending on whether they are riding or actively casting.”

For high-speed travel across open water, Vinson relies on a traditional Type III foam PFD made by brands like Onyx.

“The most important thing is that it has a zipper, and then it also has two buckles,” Vinson said. “You’re kind of double fortified, maybe even triple fortified. It has a little bit of flotation in it, which could help if you were to fall out of the boat and get knocked unconscious. You want something to support your

Life jackets today are designed to accomodate a variety of watersports and activities

A Quick Guide to Personal Floatation Device Types

Type I (Offshore Life Jackets):

These are the most buoyant vests designed for rough, open water where rescue might be delayed. They are bulky but are engineered to turn most unconscious wearers face-up in the water.

Type II (Near-Shore Vests): The classic, less bulky horse-collar jackets intended for calm, inland waters like quiet coves where a quick rescue is likely. They will turn some, but not all, unconscious wearers face up.

Type III (Flotation Aids): The undisputed favorite for lake life. Ideal for day-to-day boating and watersport activities, these include traditional water sports vests, fishing jackets and comfortable, fabric-covered foam options. Allows maximum freedom of movement but requires the wearer to actively tilt their head back to keep their face out of the water. These come in versatile cuts for different activities and uses.

Type IV (Throwable

inflatable is it’s essentially two wide suspenders that sit over the chest, with nylon straps across the back,” he said. “After a while, it really feels like you don’t have it on. They contain a CO2 cartridge with a sensor that inflates automatically if you hit the water. They are incredibly dependable. I highly recommend them, especially when fishing alone or in dangerous cold water.”

Across all activities, the universal pitfall for consumers is purchasing a PFD online without physically trying it on – a mistake that can prove disastrous. Donahoo equates the selection process to everyday apparel.

“I compare it to trying on jeans,” she laughed. “You can be one size in one brand, and then you go to a different brand or cut, and you’re not the same size. Each brand and cut is structurally different.”

To avoid a vest riding up in the water, Royal suggested a simple test inside the showroom.

“Have somebody behind you put their fingers over the area that goes over your shoulders and lift up on it,” he said. “You don’t want them to be able to lift up and have that life jacket slide up towards your ears; you want it secure over the top of your shoulders. Because if they can lift it in the store, that’s exactly what’s going to happen as soon as you jump in.”

Today’s marine market has also moved away from standard unisex sizing, and Donahoo strongly urged women to look for gender-specific vests. Beyond traditional boating, niche sports on Lake Martin are bringing specialized PFD models into local shops. For the growing community of kayakers and paddleboarders, specialized paddle vests utilize an ultra-short cut to accommodate a seated rowing

Ultimately, local pros emphasize that the best life jacket is one that fits comfortably and correctly. By selecting a Coast Guard-approved device tailored to the day’s activities, lake

be worn; instead, thrown to a victim in water to grasp until rescued.

Type V (Special-Use Device):

Hybrid devices such as standup paddle boarding belts and industrial work vests. These must be actively worn on the body to be counted toward the legal life jacket limit on a boat.

Proper sizing is encouraged for comfort and safety

A Taste of Fate Award-winning Six13 makes its debut at Lake Martin

OOn a warm June evening in Athens, Greece, Karen Schmidt sat at the top of the Hotel Grande Bretagne overlooking the illuminated Acropolis. It was her 60th birthday, June 13, and she was celebrating life with her husband, Troy, after overcoming her second battle with cancer.

As the two took in the view on their long-awaited Mediterranean adventure, the waiter delivered a simple fig and apple salad to the table alongside what Schmidt jokingly described as a “really bad Manhattan” cocktail.

The meal was meant to be a simple, memorable moment on their travels – but instead, it became a life-changing journey that launched the couple into their next big venture.

“It turns out that my birthday, June 13, is close to traditional summer solstice celebrations in Greece,” Schmidt said. “In celebration, the restaurant served a fig and apple salad to me with a really bad Manhattan – but when I tasted the fig and apple, and then the Manhattan, it felt like I got zapped. I can’t explain it, but Troy said it looked like the blood went out of my face.”

Schmidt was hit with a familiar burst of flavor that she had been chasing for years, sparking inspiration for what would become her new award-winning liqueur, Six13.

But long before Greece, business plans and bottle designs, the couple’s journey began over sharing cocktails and business connections. While Schmidt is a financial and wealth management advisor by trade, Troy is a certified public accountant. The two often swapped industry stories over barstools, Manhattans and Old Fashioneds, eventually leading to falling in love and getting married.

It was during this time that the couple also frequented a local establishment in Woodland Hills, California, where they became beloved regulars for one of the bartenders. As he prepared to enter a prestigious mixology competition, the bartender offered Schmidt a sample of his newest creation – an elevated twist on a classic Manhattan. It was crafted through a perfect combination of Buffalo Trace bourbon and figs harvested from his backyard.

“One day he said, ‘Karen, I have a surprise for you,’” Schmidt said. “He had created this drink and it was the best

thing we had ever tasted. We could not believe how good it was.”

When the bartender eventually moved away, the couple continued to chase the flavor of his unique Manhattan for the next decade, frequently challenging other bartenders to attempt to replicate the cocktail – but with no luck.

As years passed, Schmidt was faced with her second diagnosis of cancer – a brutal journey that she overcame through rounds of chemotherapy and everlasting support from her husband. As her 60th birthday approached, Troy brought his wife on a trip to the Mediterranean to celebrate, and they found – at last – the flavor they had been seeking for years, hidden in their dinner salad and through a twist of fate.

In what Schmidt described as a “movie montage moment,” a vivid vision unfolded before her eyes – she saw the shape of the bottle, the liqueur, the mission, the branding.

And at the center of it all were figs and apples.

“I literally felt like I was divided in two and somebody stuffed an idea into my head,” Schmidt said. “I spent the next three days writing a 186-page business plan – it literally all just came to me that fast.”

Once the inspiration hit, the idea of producing her own fig and apple liqueur was all Schmidt could think about. She spent the remainder of the trip designing her new product, sketching out bottle concepts, writing business plans and exploring the complex ins and outs of distillery operations.

Back home in California, Schmidt dedicated the next three and a half years to testing out batch after batch of her ideas, all while learning the complex chemistry behind distilling, working with government agencies and collaborating with industry manufactur-

tenders to learn their preferences when it came to weight, balance, grip and ease of pouring, tailoring the design to fit comfortably in the hand of anyone behind the bar – or at home.

Today, those years of planning have paid off, with Six13 already winning prestigious awards globally before its official launch in June, including taking silver in the Tokyo Whiskey & Spirits competition in Japan and, most recently, bronze in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

ers to perfect her product vision with different varieties of apples and figs.

Finally, after 113 batches, Schmidt found the flavor combination she had been dreaming of.

The breakthrough spirit became Six13, the world’s first fig and apple liqueur. Crafted with complex layers of two different figs, honey crisp apples, roasted pecan, cardamom and special honey, the spirit is fruit-forward, smooth and gently sweet, with a refreshing, crisp finish. The earthy depth and bright, clean flavor make it a versatile pour that can effortlessly replace base liquors in cocktails or be enjoyed sipped solo on ice.

Much like the inspiration for the liqueur itself, the bottle’s sleek and elegant design also has a story behind it. Manufactured by Saverglass in France, the bottle’s silhouette resembles broad, masculine shoulders that gradually narrow into a slender feminine waist, subtly imitating the form of a man and a woman embracing – a poetic symbolism behind what Schmidt describes as the flavors as being “long-lost lovers.”

Beyond aesthetics, Schmidt also wanted the bottle to be as functional as it is beautiful. She surveyed 186 bar-

And while the liqueur is sweeping the shorelines of her home state of California, Schmidt has long dreamed of also launching it in another location close to her heart – Lake Martin.

An avid lake-lover, Schmidt has spent years vacationing at the lake with her closest friends, making it one of her favorite destinations to dine and unwind.

Landing Six13 on menus across Lake Martin was a personal goal for Schmidt during her debut journey.

“I said to Troy that nothing would be a bigger dream than to have SpringHouse feature us,” Schmidt said. Dream come true. This summer, SpringHouse general manager and executive chef Pete McKenny is featuring Six13 on the restaurant’s menu, using it as the star ingredient in housemade vinaigrettes and glazes. Guests can also experience the liqueur behind the bar, where head bartender Jackson Cabu is using it to elevate classic cocktails. The fig and apple liqueur is at the center of his cocktail creation “Le Verger Negroni” (French for “The Orchard Negroni”) and the “Upstate Harvest,” a custom twist on Schmidt’s beloved go-to cocktail, the Manhattan.

For those looking to craft their own fig and apple cocktails at home, Schmidt has also curated a full collection of recipes on her website. From mules to Manhattans, Bushwhackers and martinis, adventurous drinkers can craft their own creative spirits – and perhaps inspire the next great cocktail invention.

Born out of imagination, passion and persistence, Six13 stands as a symbol of what can come out of life’s unexpected, yet beautiful, journeys. And while interest throughout the world is growing for this new award-winning spirit, Schmidt saved her debut for the two places closest to her heart – the shores of California and the docks of Lake Martin.

Discover Six13 at SpringHouse or learn more at poursix13.com.

OUT IN THE @ WIND CREEK

Naturalist Dylan Ogle brings eco-adventures to Lake Martin

STORY BY SAM VISE & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

BBefore the morning sun has even cleared the mist off the Lake Martin shoreline, Dylan Ogle is already knee-deep in a nearby swamp.

He isn’t hunting or fishing in the traditional sense; instead, he’s quietly waiting for a flash of green or a sudden ripple in the water, looking for native tree frogs and nonvenomous snakes. By afternoon, these same creatures will serve as the star attractions for a crowd of wide-eyed children and curious campers.

It’s just a standard morning for Wind Creek State Park’s full-time naturalist, a man who has quietly taken on the mission of growing the park’s environmental education programs.

At the center of both the park’s natural landscape and bustling campgrounds, Ogle wears many hats. On some days, he is a traditional recreation leader keeping beloved park customs alive. On others, he is a field researcher tracking down local reptiles in the

early morning hours.

But most importantly, Ogle is an educator. Since stepping into the park naturalist role, he has focused on trans forming how visitors interact with the rich ecosystems of Lake Martin by promoting environmental awareness.

“I’ve just always liked being outside,” Ogle said, reflecting on his childhood spent in Albertville, Alabama. “Growing up, I had a lot of animals – cats and dogs, a couple birds and a few pet frogs. I’ve always liked wildlife, and I just decided that I would like a job where that’s the main subject. I always saw myself working at a park one day.”

Before turning that childhood fascination into a career, Ogle served an enlistment in the United States Marine Corps. After completing his service, he chose to formalize his love for the

The educational programs are interactive learning experiences

Creek State Park’s front office, getting to know the logistical side of the campground. When the full-time park naturalist position opened up shortly thereafter, the stars aligned. He applied, got the job and immedi-

While Wind Creek State Park has long been celebrated for its camping, fishing and boating, the educational programming had been decentralized.

“Prior to me getting here, they hadn’t really had a full-time park naturalist,” Ogle said. “In a sense, I’m kind of building the education programs from scratch. I’ve been here for a few years now, so people are starting to get used to me being around and coming to

The core of Ogle’s growth strategy for Wind Creek State Park’s programming relies on high-quality, deeply interactive learning experiences. A prime example of this is his newly-launched Nature Lab series, a monthly program designed to give participants a hands-on, in-depth lesson on ecological

“We’ve had one of these programs where we dissected owl pellets,” Ogle said. “I got to talk about how pellets can be used to identify the eating habits of different raptor species. It

Beyond the classroom walls and campsite pavilions, Ogle is also taking his educational mission out onto the water. Recognizing that Lake Martin is one of the park’s biggest draws, he spent a significant portion of the past year expanding his horizons – specifically by earning a formal captain’s license. This summer marks the official debut of his highly anticipated Eco Tours on Lake Martin.

The boat tours give Ogle the perfect platform to showcase the unique wildlife of Wind Creek State Park, particularly the ospreys that thrive during the warmer months.

“Right now, at the park, we’ve got three confirmed osprey nests,” he said. “So, I like taking people

to see all of those.”

Of all the events Ogle coordinates, there is one weekly excursion that holds a special place in his heart – the weekly birdwatching adventure, held each Saturday at 8 a.m. during the summer and 10 a.m. during the school year.

“Birdwatching is definitely my favorite,” Ogle said. “I get a good number of birdwatchers, but sometimes with it being a weekly program, there’ll be weeks where maybe nobody shows up, and then weeks where about 20 people show up. It can get good numbers, but it can also be inconsistent at times. I always wish more people would come birdwatching.”

One of the greatest challenges of environmental education is confronting the public’s fears about the natural world. For Ogle, a self-described “herp lover,” bridging the gap between humans and misunderstood

critters is one of the most rewarding aspects of his job.

He frequently hosts herpetology encounters using local lizards, toads and snakes he catches within park boundaries – all of which are safely rereleased exactly where he found them after the presentation.

When asked if he has a favorite piece of knowledge he likes to pass on to visitors, Ogle didn’t hesitate to offer a truth that is deeply near and dear to his heart.

“I always tell people that snakes are not out to get them,” he said. “I know it’s not a super interesting fact, but it’s a very important fact to me. No snake is out to get a person. People are too big for snakes to prey on, and the only times that people get bit by venomous snakes is when they’re messing with them. They’re just trying to live their life like the rest of us.”

Ogle uses reptiles he catches in the park for demonstrations

That unwavering comfort with wildlife in all its forms – whether he is scooping up giant wolf spiders in the woods or handling native toads – is what makes Ogle such a valuable ambassador for the park.

When the uniform comes off, Ogle’s relationship with Wind Creek State Park doesn’t change all that much. His personal hobbies mirror his professional responsibilities, blending a deep love for lake life with a continuous desire to learn.

“My favorite thing is probably the lake, especially in the summer when it’s hot,” Ogle said. “I find my way into the water as often as I can. I do a lot of swimming. I’ll also go canoeing and do some fishing.”

Even his recreational fishing trips serve double duty as professional research.

“That’s something I’m working on –up on my independent fishing skills and trying to find all the good fishing spots around the park,” he said. “Because that’s usually a big question I get, is where the best fishing spots are. That’s something I’m under taking to find out for myself.”

So, if one happens to spot a canoe gliding across a quiet cove this summer or sees a figure studying the shoreline as the sun begins to set, look closely. It might just be Wind Creek State Park’s naturalist on his day off, still researching, still scouting and still map ping out new adventures to share with every visitor.

Visit alapark.com/parks/wind-creekstate-park/park-events-and-programs for more information on upcoming events and educational programs.

Wind Creek State Park Educational Programs

From campfire stories to guided hikes through nature, Wind Creek State Park welcomes the Lake Martin community to join in educational outdoor adventures all year long.

WEEKLY BIRDWATCHING ADVENTURE

Set out to enjoy a lakeside adventure while observing songbirds, raptors, bald eagles and the many other feathered friends that call Lake Martin home.

ECO TOURS ON LAKE MARTIN

Through this boat excursion, get up close with native species while hearing stories about the region’s unique ecosystem and historical roots.

EVENING STROLL

Join the naturalist for a guided evening stroll down the Speckled Snake Trail each Sunday. Guests will embark from the trailhead for a 4-mile hike across diverse terrain. Comfortable shoes, snacks, bug spray and a flashlight are recommended.

CAMPFIRE TALK

Gather around a roaring campfire and learn about the different wildlife found in the Lake Martin area and how to identify them.

LOCAL HERP ENCOUNTER

Hop on over to the Clubhouse for a close-up look at local reptiles and amphibians.

ALABAMA STATE PARKS JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM

From fishing to frog calls and tarp tent workshops, Wind Creek State Park welcomes youth to participate in a wide range of nature activities all

GIRL SCOUTS LOVE STATE PARKS PROGRAMS

Wind Creek State Park offers fun group projects for Girl Scouts of all ages during the fall months.

ADDITIONAL PARK PROGRAMS

Wind Creek State Park offers a diverse range of family-fun activities for guests of all ages. Check the park’s website for additional events, dates and registration. Park entrance fees apply for day visitors.

Serenity on the Shoreline

STORY BY SAM VISE & PHOTOS BY KENNETH BOONE

FFinding a waterfront lot on Lake Martin is often a dream come true, but uncovering a sprawling, 55-acre private paradise with nearly 800 feet of shoreline is an entirely different story.

For Chad and Mindy McWhirter, that rare combination of private acreage and wide-open water was exactly what drew them to the Turner Road area. Nestled at the back of Chuck Marina’s slough, their gated property completely redefines what it means to live on the lake.

“It’s a unique piece of property because it’s 55 acres with waterfront, and you really don’t find that around Lake Martin,” Mindy said. “There’s trails all throughout for riding, a couple creeks and there’s some green fields with a shooting house.

It’s super unique and very private, but yet very convenient to do things by water and by land.”

While Mindy was born and raised in Alexander City – growing up swimming at her grandmother’s old Russell Cabin – her career took her out west before she eventually returned to the region to sell real estate with Lake Martin Vibe Realty, ultimately becoming a co-owner and broker of the company.

Now, almost two years after moving into their custom-built home, she and Chad have crafted a space

that perfectly suits their lifestyle, their love for hosting and their two dogs, Elvis and Juice.

Built by Kenny McBride of M&M Construction, the home spans 4,816 square feet of heated and cooled space, all situated on a single level. Finding the right floor plan was a months-long process for the couple, who was looking for a specific layout that offered both entertainment areas and private retreats.

“We knew this piece of property could handle a one-level home, it just needed to be a big house,” Mindy said of the five-bedroom, seven-bathroom home. “We wanted

a mother-in-law suite or just a separate bedroom with a separate entrance. Each of the five bedrooms also has their own bathroom.”

The home’s exterior is finished in Sherwin-Williams Greenblack, a choice that allows the structure to blend into the surrounding forest. Inside, the soaring 16’4” ceilings in the living room create an airy, open feel, grounded by Sherwin-Williams White Dove walls.

A gas fireplace anchors the space, while wood beams add to the woodland aesthetics and floor-length windows offer stunning views of Lake Martin from the comfort of

their couch, sourced from Jess and Gray in Alexander City.

The kitchen is a lesson in modern-boho style, featuring an expansive 10-foot quartzite island with storage on both sides, a spacious refrigerator and a custom coffee station hidden behind retractable doors. The cabinetry, finished in Matte Tricorn Black, provides a sharp contrast to the Luxor Royal Link Gold Tile backsplash.

Mindy described her decorating style as a “mix of boho-western and antique,” a look that reflects her travels out West. From animal skin rugs to mounted skulls, the couple’s personal style is evident the moment

one steps into the entertainment section of the home.

Featuring walls donned with Chad’s guitars and a separate wet bar area, the space is specifically set up for karaoke and live music, and Mindy said this is where the couple spends most of their time during the winter months.

“My husband and I both love music,” she said. “He used to be in a band, and he’ll play guitar in here. The bar stools are actually from a bar that his band used to play at.”

The home is filled with similar personal details.

The patio's flagstone flooring and Greenblack exterior blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings

A King Ranch rug adds Western-inspired luxury to one of the guest bedrooms

In the foyer, an antique chest belonging to Mindy’s father greets guests, while a King Ranch rug – once belonging to her grandmother – adds a touch of Texasinspired luxury to one of the bedrooms.

Functionality was just as important as aesthetics during the build.

The primary suite is a sprawling retreat, expanded from the original floor plan to maximize lake views through sweeping sliding glass doors. The suite includes a luxury steam shower equipped with double shower heads, a soaking tub, Sonos speakers and separate, oversized his and hers closets with custom wood shelving.

Even the primary bathroom features personal elements: the cabinets were custom-stained by Fred’s Cabinet Shop to mirror a special design Mindy admired in a friend’s showroom in Huntsville.

The home’s laundry room is also strategically connected to the primary closet for convenience and features a space-saving built-in drying rack.

The space also features luxury amenities, such as a dedicated room for exercising and massages. But perhaps the most unique room in the house is the combined office and safe room.

“It’s where we would go if there was a tornado,” Mindy said. “It’s completely surrounded with concrete, with poured walls on three sides and the ceiling, and a metal safe door.”

Despite the beautiful interior, the McWhirters spend

the vast majority of their time outdoors. The sprawling, 800-foot patio features flagstone flooring, a wood-burning fireplace, chairs sourced from The Wright Design Co. and powerful infrared heaters mounted in the wood ceilings, making it cozy year-round for relaxing, hosting and entertaining.

“Truly where we spend 99 percent of our time is on the patio,” Mindy said. “My husband spends all his time right outside in that recliner!”

The landscaping, designed by Adam Patterson, utilizes boulders unearthed during the construction process. When crews hit a vein of rock while trying to flatten the lot, they turned the obstacle into an opportunity,

using the massive stones for the home’s retaining walls and landscape accents.

Down at the shoreline, the property features a stacked stone seawall and a doubleslip covered dock built by Jared Smith, complete with Trex decking and wood ceilings. It’s here that Juice, their black lab, spends his days diving into the water for sticks.

While the lake is just steps away for sunset boat cruises and long days spent on the water, the couple retreat to the surrounding woodlands for a different type of escape.

Chad is an avid hunter, and the property features two green fields, one with a shooting house and one with a shorter

Clockwise from Facing Page: The living room is defined by soaring 16-foot ceilings, rustic accents and modern finishes; Expansive windows in the primary bedroom offer stunning waterfront views; The lake is just steps away for boat cruises and sunset views; The home's unique office space doubles as a fortified safe room.

Boho-Western accents bring personality to the home's living spaces

platform stand where he can hunt the property’s large deer and turkey populations. Two scenic creeks run throughout the land as well, offering a rushing soundtrack to the couple’s private trail rides.

For the McWhirters, the 55-acre estate offers a perfect balance. It provides the quiet seclusion of the woods and the protection of the neighboring Alabama Power land, while being just a five-minute boat ride from the high energy of Chuck’s Marina.

“I didn’t know how I’d like being so secluded,” Mindy said. “But I love it. You have that protection and privacy; people aren’t right on top of you.”

By anchoring their custom home with family treasures and designing it around their passion for hosting, the McWhirters have designed a deeply personal, open-door sanctuary where the tranquility of the woods perfectly meets the pull of the water.

FIREWORKS OF FREEDOM

The history behind America and Lake Martin's Fourth of July traditions

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“And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there…”

The year is 1814, and Francis Scott Key watched as the grueling Battle of Baltimore unfolded before his eyes. The British had invaded Chesapeake Bay and launched a surprise attack on the city, raining explosives down on Fort McHenry for 25 agonizing hours.

In the early morning of September 14, gunfire finally fell silent and a tense darkness overcame the bay. Unsure of who was now controlling Baltimore, Key peered through the smoke with his telescope, holding his breath in terror of what early light of dawn may reveal.

But there, flying proudly over the ramparts, a massive American flag waved in victory. In fact, it was so large that the fort’s commander, Major George Armistead, had it specifically ordered so that “the British would have no difficulty seeing it from a distance.”

Seeing Old Glory still flying didn’t just mean the battle was won; it meant the experiment of America had prevailed. This conflict was, after all, America’s “Second War of Independence.”

The rockets Key saw that night were an echoing reminder of the bravery and sacrifices made nearly 40 years earlier, as the Founding Fathers penned the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Paul Revere made his courageous midnight ride and George Washington as he made the icy voyage across the Delaware to keep the spark of the revolution alive.

Key’s poem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” forever tied “rockets’ red glare” to the pride, soul and traditions of American freedom. More than two centuries later, those same flashes of light illuminate the night sky each Fourth of July – but now as symbols of patriotism and celebration.

As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary of independence and Lake Martin commemorates its centennial summer, Americans will be gathering together to watch dazzling fireworks displays, wave colorful sparklers and fire off their own “rockets” from docks.

But celebrating with fireworks began long before America was founded – and even centuries before Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.

To understand today’s tradition, one needs to look back to the late medieval and early modern periods starting in the 1400s. For centuries in Europe, extravagant fireworks shows were strictly used as a display of wealth and power by kings and queens. They were typically reserved for grand national events – such as the lavish display for King Henry VII’s wedding in 1486, or the royal pageants hosted by Queen Elizabeth I at Kleinworth Castle.

Because of this cultural history, by the time the American Revolution unfolded, fireworks were already established as a way to express grand celebration – and America’s Founding Fathers embraced it.

In 1776, John Adams wrote a famous letter to his wife, Abigail, declaring that the birth of America’s independence should be celebrated by succeeding generations as a “great anniversary festival.”

“[This day] ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more,” Adams’ letter said.

In 1777, on the one-year anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, America was alive with celebration in the 13 original colonies.

Philadelphia celebrated with a 13-gun salute from ships and a grand display of fireworks at the Commons with 13 rockets to honor the colonies.

In Massachusetts, the Sons of Liberty hosted a large fireworks display over the Boston Common, while in Bristol, Rhode Island, the town celebrated by firing exactly 13 shots into the air twice – once in the morning to wake everyone up, and once in the evening as the sun went down.

While the celebrations were extravagant, they did not include the vibrant, rainbow colored displays as seen today – rather, they were simply muskets and cannons firing off, as early American colonists didn’t have access to “real” fireworks.

Instead, the bursts were primarily made up of military explosives, black powder, muskets and cannons, creating glowing orange sparks and smokey clouds of gold as they were fired off.

It wasn’t until the 1830s that two Italian chemists revolutionized fireworks, discovering that by combining specific metallic salts to

chlorinated gunpowder they could create dazzling, colorful displays. This technique was brought to the U.S. during the wave of Italian migration, eventually leading to the creation of America’s patriotic red, white and blue combinations.

Ironically, blue is still the most difficult color to create, even today, as the copper compounds break down easily if the explosion gets too hot.

The Tradition of Lake Martin Fireworks

Over the centuries, fireworks have become a staple to Fourth of July celebrations across the country – and Lake Martin is no exception.

For generations, families and friends have gathered on the shoreline to take part in some of the lake’s most beloved traditions. From patriotic boat parades and amphitheater concerts to dazzling fireworks reflecting across the water, Lake Martin has been the backdrop for countless holiday memories.

But before the big crowds, ski boats and boat parades, Fourth of July celebrations at Lake Martin were much simpler, revolving around two main events: the annual boat race by day and the Blount family fireworks by night.

Beginning in the 1950s, just a few short decades after the lake was formed, a highly anticipated boat race kicked off Fourth of July at Lake Martin for the small community of lake-goers at the time. Most race competitors were in modest fishing boats and slow moving runabouts, with only a handful of families owning faster speedboats. To make the competition fair, the slower boats were given a generous head start off the starting line to begin the race.

Participants would line up at the Tallapoosa River Bridge before cruising across the water to Kowaliga Bridge, greeted by a crowd of spectators cheering them on as

they crossed the finish line.

“People would be out on the bridge and yelling like crazy,” recalled Alexander City native, Mike Davis. “That sort of started the Fourth of July festivities, which then carried into the afternoon and then into the night with the Blount fireworks.”

Davis himself was more than just a spectator in the iconic boat race tradition, recalling participating as a child alongside his father.

“I was probably 10 or 11 years old when I rode in it,” Davis said. “That was back in the 1950s. My dad had a fishing boat with a little 10-horse Johnson on the back of it. He won second place in his group one year. Those were good memories for me.”

But the boat race was only the beginning of Fourth of July celebrations at Lake Martin.

As evening settled in across the lake, families would begin to gather at Blount Point in Tallassee

Winton and Red Blount hosted a small, yet exciting, fireworks show that would become one of the lake’s most beloved annual traditions.

Billy Moore, a 69-year-old StillWaters resident, fondly recalls watching the fireworks at Blount’s Point at a young age, where Fourth of July has set the scene for some of his favorite memories since childhood.

“My grandmother bought a cabin in Tallassee Slough in 1973,” Moore said. “And we would go watch the fireworks every year at Blount’s Point; they were shot right off of the little beach. It wasn’t like the big production you see today –there were only maybe 50 to 75 boats or so out there. But it was a big deal. I have very distinct memories of getting in the boat and going out about 200 yards to watch the show.”

the Blounts, when the fireworks show relocated, the crowds also began to grow, as did the scale of the displays.

In the summer of 1976, in celebration of America’s 200th birthday, Red hired S. Vitale Pyrotechnic Industries in Pennsylvania to travel to Lake Martin and put on a spectacular show unlike anything the lake community had seen before. The show drew in hundreds of boats and spectators, setting in motion the large crowds typically seen today.

Over the decades, the fireworks moved from the original location at Blount Point to a private island across the way in Cocktail Slough. Still hosted by

Davis recalled one year that Ben Russell watched the dazzling display over Lake Martin from the sky, mesmerized by the brilliant colors and crowd of spectators.

“Ben Russell got into his helicopter and had his pilot fly up above where the fireworks would hit, and he stayed up there and watched the fireworks go off,” Davis said. “He said the coolest thing was when it was over and watching the hundreds of boats leaving and going back to their cabins.”

Following Red’s passing, the Blounts decided it was time to pass the torch of the Fourth of July fireworks celebration, and Ben Russell gladly stepped in. Russell Lands began hosting the fireworks show in

Russell Lands launches more than 7,500 tails during its 30-minute fireworks show

Fourth of July is gernerational favorite for lake families

2001 alongside an annual boat parade, carrying on the beloved tradition now for 26 years.

Known now as the “largest fireworks show in the Southeast,” Russell Lands hosts the annual event at The AMP, blasting off more than 7,500 tails of fireworks for an extravagant 30-minute fireworks show.

For this year’s Fourth of July, Russell Lands plans to host their most spectacular event yet to celebrate both the 250th anniversary of the United States and the centennial of Lake Martin.

“It’s an exciting time on the lake,” said Russell Lands director of events and marketing operations, Robert Gunn. “People look forward to it, and this year our fireworks show is going to be the biggest thing we’ve ever done out there.”

The show will also welcome exciting entertainment to The AMP’s stage. This year, local cover band and Lake Martin favorite The Bank Walkers will kick the celebration off, followed by two performances by Fly By Radio, whose energetic cover of classic rock favorites and nostalgic hits will set the tone for a fun-filled evening. Before the first burst of color hits the night sky, local Scott Blake will sing the national anthem.

For Gunn, some of the most memorable moments have come not from the fireworks themselves, but from the people gathered at The AMP to watch them.

He recalled one Fourth of July when an electrical storm moved through the area, causing technical difficulties that knocked out the sound system moments before the national anthem was set to begin.

Rather than growing frustrated, the crowd respond-

ed in a way Gunn will never forget, joining in harmony to finish out the Star-Spangled Banner with the headlining act.

“Andrew Jannakos began singing acapella and then the crowd chimed in to sing along with him,” Gunn said. “There was just something about seeing the level of patriotism that made the hair on the back of my neck stand up. It’s one of those Fourth of July memories that I’ll never forget.”

While many spectators still enjoy the tradition of watching the show by boat in Kowaliga Bay, perhaps the best seat in the house today is on the grassy hillside of The AMP while overlooking the water.

“A lot of people go out on their boats to watch the show,” Gunn said. “But to me, those who are in the actual amphitheater itself have the prime spots to view the show. You have a better view, can feel the earth shake and see the fireworks burst right in front of you. There’s no better place in the world to be able to watch this show.”

From glowing sparklers to fireworks bursting across the night sky, this Fourth of July will be one of the most celebrated yet – from the docks of Lake Martin and from sea to shining sea.

Some information for this article was sourced from history.com and russellllands.com.

Anemone Stinkhorn W

When you’re looking around outdoors, every now and then you’ll spot something that looks completely foreign. That’s definitely the case with this month’s Nature of the Lake subject.

The anemone stinkhorn is a mushroom that somehow managed to travel halfway around the world and end up growing wild along a street in Alabama, where it certainly looks out of place. This striking fungus is native to southern Australia and many South Pacific islands, including New Zealand.

Its common names – anemone stinkhorn, sea anemone fungus, starfish fungus and starfish stinkhorn – all relate to the pairs of red arms that stretch out where we would normally expect to see a mushroom cap. Its scientific name, Aseroe rubra , gets even more specific. “Aseroe” comes from the Greek words for “disgusting juice,” and “rubra” is Latin for the color red.

And all would be correct descriptions. The anemone stinkhorn does have long, red arms and smells something like rotting meat.

Because it is such an unusual mushroom, it has been collected and transported around the world. Now it’s relatively common in the Hawaiian Islands and is also sometimes found here in the Southeastern United States, though it’s certainly not an everyday sight.

This mushroom has a lighter-colored, hollow stem that can reach about 4 inches

tall. The top of the anemone stinkhorn is usually red but can also be orange, pink or white, with five to seven tentacles. Each tentacle is forked at the end. The crown of the mushroom is covered with foul-smelling brown slime that contains mushroom spores. The smell attracts flies and other insects, which get spores on their feet and then they fly away, spreading the spores.

When it first emerges, the anemone stinkhorn looks like a small, whitish egg half buried in the ground. The egg-shaped structures may stay on the ground for weeks or longer. But when they do burst open and start to elongate into a stem, the transformation happens relatively quickly, often in the early hours of the morning. When the top of the egg breaks open, it reveals a tightly bunched fist of tentacles, which unfold and spread wide all around the stem.

The anemone stinkhorn photographed here was found along North Central Avenue near the intersection with Dobbs Road in Alexander City. It is clearly past its prime because the forked tentacles are shrunken and broken off. Some of these mushrooms have very long, thin tentacles – like a forked snake tongue – when they first emerge and unfold.

It is often found in moist areas such as

LAKE PROPERTY

BY STEVE ARNBERG

Arnberg is Vice President of Real Estate Sales for Russell Lands.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Lake Martin

II feel old. Lake Martin is celebrating its 100th birthday this summer, and it has dawned on me that I have been enjoying the lake for almost 60 years myself!

It never occurred to me that at 9 years old, when I jumped into Lake Martin for the first time, it was a relatively “young” lake. Back then, there were a lot of adults in this area who could remember a time before the Tallapoosa River was dammed up to create Lake Martin. It is hard to imagine that this wonderful resource was not always here.

Since my childhood days, the lake has been “discovered” by many more children. They experience the lake for the first time much like I did. They meet the lake in a swimsuit, on a boat, on a pier, with a fishing pole and with parents who make them come in for supper!

As a kid, everything is better at the lake. Bologna sandwiches, hot dogs, sunrises, sunsets, fireworks, boat rides and even bugs are cherished and enjoyed at the lake. Some of my best memories are of time spent at Lake Martin.

Besides the population of lake lovers, much has changed here at the lake –especially real estate. Our first place here was a small camper near Castaway (that was one of the popular marinas of my childhood). Let me emphasize camper –not trailer. The well-to-do had trailers or cinder-block structures.

We were a family of six, so don’t ask me how we all fit in that camper! Actually, it did not really matter to me because I was outside or in the lake all the time anyway. In fact, I don’t remember as a 9 year old ever getting into bed on my on. I was usually asleep on my camp chair and had to be carried to bed by my dad – he loved the lake too.

There are not nearly as many camper trailers on Lake Martin anymore. The only thing that is still around that reminds me of my childhood is a smat-

tering here and there of Russell Cabins that all of us dreamed of renting one day. What has happened is that people placed a big value on time here at Lake Martin. Slowly over time, the cabins, trailers and campers gave way to larger cabins, houses and estate homes. People love it here so much that they spend ever-increasing amounts of time here. Fortunately, this is a very big lake and still relatively undeveloped. In fact, there are hundreds of miles of undeveloped shoreline that remind me of my childhood days here.

A QUICK LOOK AT NUMBERS

I normally draft an article focused on the numbers, but for this article, I thought I would share some sales data that show how far we have come since the camper days. What follows are sales results* for the 12-month period ending on May 31, 2026, and comparisons to the same period from the previous year.

n Sales volume for waterfront residential increased 28.3 percent to $445,333,033. That is a new record.

n Unit sales for waterfront residential increased 6.9 percent to 277 properties sold.

n Average sales price for waterfront residential increased 20 percent to $1,607,700. That is a new record.

n There are only 172 properties for sale to supply the 277 potential sales. If nothing new comes on the market, we will exhaust available supply in 7.45 months.

For those who have invested significant time and money on the lake, it appears that the investment in both is paying big dividends. Happy birthday, Lake Martin!

* The data above is derived from sales data pulled from the Lake Martin Area Association of Realtors®.

Red, White, Blue & Berry Good For You: Celebrate America's 250th anniversary with patriotic berry powerhouses

TThe United States has been a powerhouse of resilience, innovation and growth for centuries. As our nation celebrates 250 years of independence, families and communities across the country are gathering to honor our history, traditions and shared future. From backyard barbecues and community festivals to patriotic picnics and family reunions, food plays a very important role in bringing people together.

This year, consider making berries the centerpiece of your celebration.

As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, berries serve as a fitting symbol – small but mighty, colorful and diverse and packed with nutrients needed to help us thrive for years to come.

Topping the charts as nutritional powerhouses, berries protect everything from our heart to our head. Berries have the highest antioxidant levels of any fresh fruit.

Interestingly, kale and spinach are the only vegetables with the same oxygen radical absorbance capacity values as these powerful berries. ORAC is a value or number given to food based on its antioxidant activity. Research shows that consuming fruits and vegetables with a high ORAC value may slow aging in both the brain and body.

Antioxidants are shown to be even more powerful when combined with fiber. This explains why consuming whole foods with fiber is a more practical option than a dietary supplement.

Berries are among the most nutrient-dense fruits with the highest fiber content. They are packed with a combination of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants that support overall health. They are relatively low in calories but rich in essential nutrients. Most berries provide vitamin C, manganese and a variety of phytonutrients. It is the beautiful color in berries that provides the antioxidants that help protect our cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

While no single food can prevent disease, making berries a regular part of your diet is associated with positive health outcomes related to cardiovascular health, cognitive function and healthy aging. Berries contain nutrients that support healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood vessel function. The combination of fiber, potassium and antioxidants makes berries a heart-smart choice. Their fiber content helps slow digestion and the absorption of sugars, resulting in a gradual rise in blood glucose levels. This is why berries are a good snack choice for individuals managing diabetes or insulin resistance when fruit is incorporated into a meal or snack.

Research suggests berry consumption may help with cognitive health. Certain antioxidants found in berries appear to support communication between brain cells and may help protect against age-related cognitive decline.

Truly an American harvest, berries enjoyed today have deep roots in North America. Native Americans harvested berries for centuries, and today berry farms continue to thrive across the country, providing fresh seasonal fruit during the height of summer.

There are four berries that stand out in my mind for July celebrations. Let’s take a look at the nutritional breakdown.

First, July is peak season for blueberries, which helped it land the title of National Blueberry Month. Rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, blueberries may help

support heart and brain health while adding the deep blue color to patriotic dishes.

Strawberries are sweet, juicy and high in vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants. Their bright red color makes them a perfect choice for a red, white and blue display or dessert.

Raspberries receive the prize for the highest fiber-rich fruit available, helping support digestive health and satiety. Their bold flavor and beautiful color make them a showpiece on the table.

Last but not least, blackberries are rich in fiber, vitamin C and offer powerful plant compounds that support overall wellness. They add depth of flavor and beauty to fruit platters and salads.

Red, white and blue on the plate reflects patriotic pride. The following list provides several ideas for creating eye-pleasing and delicious dishes and snacks – not only for the month of July but all summer long.

n Fruit parfaits made with yogurt or cottage cheese offer a rich protein option.

n Fresh berry platters or berries added to charcuterie boards.

n Mixed berries on fresh salad greens for added color and sweetness.

n Berry-topped oatmeal or mashed berries added into or on top of whole-grain pancakes.

n Small, easy-to-eat berry skewers.

n Frozen berry pops offer a refreshing summer treat.

n Serve water infused with berries and fresh fruit.

n Blend frozen berries into smoothies.

The 250th anniversary of the United States is an opportunity to celebrate not only our nation’s historic milestone but also the healthy habits that help our future generations thrive. Choosing fresh, seasonal foods like berries is a small but meaningful way to support wellness while enjoying time with family and friends.

As the fireworks light the sky on July 4, let berries represent the story of America – vibrant, diverse, resilient and full of promise.

HEALTHY LIVING

BY JULIE HUDSON

Grilled Pork Chop with Applesauce and a Fig-Apple Glaze

APPLESAUCE

Ingredients

4 to 5 Gala apples (or your favorite red apple, but not Red Delicious), cored and chopped

3 to 4 Granny Smith apples, cored and chopped

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 to 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 star anise

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

Directions

Add all ingredients to a pot and cook over low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. Adjust seasoning with salt and additional cinnamon, if desired.

FIG-APPLE GLAZE

Ingredients

2 cups Six13 fig and apple liqueur

1/2 cup white sugar

1 cinnamon stick

Directions

Add ingredients to a saucepan and reduce by one-half to three-fourths. The mixture should resemble a syrup. Drizzle the glaze over pork chops and serve alongside the applesauce. Makes 2 servings.

CHEF'S TABLE BY

PETE MCKENNY

Pete McKenny, General Manager and Executive Chef at SpringHouse Restaurant, trained at four-star restaurants and Forbes fourstar 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.

Nestled along the renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail and just minutes to Auburn University, this award-winning golf course community offers an exceptional lifestyle, surrounded by natural beauty & unmatched amenities. Adventure on nearby trails, boat and fish on the Saugahatchee Lake, or enjoy life at your pace with everything from a wellness spa and pool to pickleball/tennis courts and more, offered by the Auburn-Opelika Marriott.

Be among the first to explore our newest home designs and build the home that perfectly fits your lifestyle. Best of all, we take care of your yard—so you can spend more time enjoying the lifestyle you’ve earned. Schedule your private visit today!

New Homes from the Upper $400s to $1M+

Minutes to Auburn University

Vintage Misconceptions About Wine

TTwo of the most clichéd wine terms we will ever hear relate to the moment in time when a bottle of wine was produced. “A good year” and “vintage wine” are often thrown casually into a conversation without a firm grip on what the phrases actually mean. A “good year” would suggest that all of the variables and nuances of climate were in complete harmony when this or that wine came into being. A “vintage wine” simply implies an old wine, like a vintage roadster or vintage clothing, without attaching a specific year.

When we refer to a wine’s vintage, we are not saying that it is necessarily old. Vintage identifies the year the grapes in that wine were harvested. A wine from the 1994 vintage would be considered old; the 2026 vintage is still on the vine (except in the Southern Hemisphere, where harvest for 2026 has just been completed). The year of the harvest –its vintage – will almost always appear somewhere on the label and often on the cork as well. This is important information that will relate to quality but does not assume a “good year.” We can debate corks and screw caps another time.

Now that we know the vintage, we can do the research to determine whether or not it was, in fact, a good year. It’s all about the weather in the region where the grapes are grown, the grape varieties that are grown in that region and their adaptability or tolerance for climate fluctuations and the consensus of credible wine critics. Vintage charts published by competent wine reviewers might indicate a pattern in the numerical ratings of wines by region. Rather than say this was a good or bad year, these charts refer to the drink time as drink now, hold, near prime, past prime, etc., or provide a scoring system. Regional variances are critical; a good year here might have been awful elsewhere.

Bad wine, if it happens, is more often the result of mishandling, a faulty cork or simply being past prime. The chances of getting stuck with a wine from a bad year are extremely rare. Modern winemaking is loaded with tricks and magic to compensate for some of the climatic challenges of a given year. But the West Coast fires in 2017, 2018 and 2019 caused significant impact due to smoke taint and irreparable damage to the vineyards. We remember the fires of 2020 as being the most devastating, with wineries in California, Oregon and Washington forfeiting the entire 2020 vintage. Essentially, if a wine is on the shelf, it must have been a good year or engineered to be acceptable.

Reading between the lines of past columns might reveal a pattern to my ramblings. I think the aha moment from more than 20 years of this journey might be that wine changes. The large producers know how to deliver a relatively consistent prod-

uct year after year, despite climate issues, vineyard issues, you name it. Consumers expect the most popular brands to be the same from one vintage to the next. Smaller wineries tend to allow the climate, the grapes and the terroir to provide the best show with less winemaker intervention. But there will always be change in what we drink simply because today is not yesterday. Of course, the new vintage won’t taste exactly the same as the last; last year’s vintage had a head start and a year to mature. A wine’s transformation over time is most astonishing and delightful. That brings us back to the vintage and the individual wine.

Again, the vintage tells us when the grapes were harvested. As consumers, we have to know – cut this out for your refrigerator – what to expect from each varietal. They are not the same. Most wines, and I say this a lot, are consumed within 48 hours of purchase. White wines are not especially age-worthy, lasting from 1 to 5 years unopened and properly stored. A fine White Burgundy will last much longer, possibly 20 years. Five years is a good stretch for Pinot Noir and Merlot. Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux, Syrah, Italian Nebbiolo and Spanish Tempranillo can easily last for 10 to 30 years when properly stored.

The pictured Jordan “vertical” (wines from different years by the same producer) will be best between five and 15 years beyond the vintage dates. The just-released current vintage of Jordan Alexander Valley Cab is 2021. We don’t even have it yet, and the 2020s are in short supply. It is important to note that when the current vintage is depleted or sold out, that’s it; there is no more of that vintage available on the open market. Wineries and wine clubs often have a limited stock of past vintages.

At some point, our new favorite wine will have a vintage change. It may taste the same or seem noticeably different.

We can pretty much consider every year a good year, even with nuances attributed to the particular vintage. Vintage is not a point of obsession but merely a benchmark, information that identifies one year from another, information that for most of us is simply good to know. What matters most is that we enjoy what we are drinking and the company we are with. That’s what makes it a good year.

FROM THE CELLAR

BY HENRY FOY

Henry Foy is the owner of Emporium Wine, Spirits and Cigars, now celebrating more than 22 years of business in Alexander City at 128 Calhoun Street. For current hours and information, call 256-212-9463 (WINE) or follow us on Facebook.

The Coike Craze

A

A lot of different things come and go over time in the fishing world, and then there are some that remain steady producers even after 20, 30 or even 50 years. Each bait and technique was “new” at one time, meaning it was new to the fish. They had not seen it before, and the bait or technique produced bites like nothing else. Can you imagine the first time someone presented a bass with a soft-plastic worm, and then came up with one that had a tail that turned at the back?

While having a conversation with my dad recently about the “new” baits of today, he brought up his past experience throwing a jig. It was a fairly new technique when he first tried it on Lake Martin.

“It was unbelievable,” he said.

At every one of his brush piles, the fish would jump all over that jig – and big ones too. The fish still bite a jig pretty well today, more than 40 years later and after millions of bass have already been caught on jigs. You know it was magical the first time they saw one!

New crazy-looking bait

This brings us to the bait and technique that’s taken off like a wildfire in 2026. Keep in mind, we now live in an age of technology where the most realistic bait shapes and detailed color patterns are possible. We’re at a point technologically where certain baits look and can act exactly like a crawfish, a minnow, a bream and on they go. Many of these catch fish, but surprisingly, they don’t always catch as many fish as we might imagine.

And then there’s the Coike style bait. A hard round ball in the center surrounded by tentacles that create the overall profile of – guess what – another round ball?

“What on earth do they think this is?” we ask.

The first thing that comes to mind for those of us in the South is a sweet-gum ball. Running around the lake with bare feet growing up, you learned quickly about sweet-gum balls. The profile of the Coike bait is almost exactly like that, with a much softer consistency, of course. It’s a softplastic bait. Many are made of TPE, which is a stretchy,

BIG CATCHES

BY GREG VINSON

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.

GONE FISHIN'

nearly indestructible type of material. Others are made from variations of traditional soft plastics.

At the time, the most popular way to fish them is like a souped-up wacky rig. An open hook impaled through the center ball of the bait. The angler can add weight in various forms using nail weights, weighted hooks or no weight at all depending on the presentation desired. There seems to be no wrong way to fish it. Short hops or pulls seem to be the most common method right now. Picture each tentacle on the bait having the same shimmy action as a Senko on the fall. Perhaps it’s like sensory overload for the bass as all these tentacles are quivering at once.

As an avid angler, I’m always trying to answer the ques tion, “Why?” Naturally, I can’t help but wonder, “Why do fish bite this gaudy, unrealistic looking ball of plastic?” There are some theories about it being an instinctual feeding response from when they were eating similar-looking plankton as baby bass fry. Seems far-fetched, but perhaps. And others say it’s just a knee-jerk reaction-type bite in response to the action of the tentacles. Who knows at this point? The important thing is they bite it!

And apparently, it’s a bass thing and not just a specific region, because tournaments have been won and top finishes have come from around the country using this crazy-looking bait.

Looking to get one? The breakout brand name Hide-Up Coike is unavailable everywhere but eBay, where the worst colors are selling for $75, and the more popular ones are between $150 to $500 … for one bait!

There are some more readily available baits on the market, and they may be as good – or may not. Time will tell as other bait manufacturers are rushing to produce their versions.

Great catch!

The big question is whether this bait and technique will stand the test of time like the worm, the jig and the Senko. Right now, it’s new, but in the age of information it won’t be by this time next year. How long will the trend hold? One year, two or 20 to 40. Only time will tell.

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

BoonDocks at Bay Pine 256-307-1119

Martin's @ Lake Martin 256-307-1338

LAKE DISTRIBUTION

➤ ALEXANDER CITY

Abernathy Farm Supply

Alex City Airport

Alex City Marine

Alex City Public Library

Alex City Nutrition

BeYOUtiful Salon

Benjamin Lake Club

Big B Barbeque

Bone & Joint Specialists

Carib Kitchen

Carlisle's

Carlos Mexican Grill

Catherine's Market

Central State Bank

Chamber of Commerce

Cherokee Quickstop

Citgo - HWY 22

City Hall

Cloud Nine

Court House Annex

Dark Insurance

Days Inn

Docks Unlimited

Dr. Mackey

Dr. Sublett

Emporium Wine

Exxon - HWY 280

Fanny’s

George W. Hardy- Dentist

Grace's Flowers

Hampton Inn

Heritage South Credit Union

Hillabee Towers

Hometown Pharmacy

Jackson Drugs

Jake's

Jes & Gray Living

Jim Bob's

JR's Sports Bar & Grill

Karen Channel - State Farm Agent

Koon's Korner

Lake Martin Pizza Co.

Lake Martin Nutrition

Larry's General Store

Longleaf Antiques

Main Street Urgent Care

Marathon - CHEROKEE RD

Mark King's Furniture

Medicine Express

Moore Wealth Management

North Lake Condo

Pri Care

Quality Inn

Regions Bank

ReMax

Renfroe’s

Ridge Marina

River Bank & Trust

River Bend Store

River North Marina

Ron Carroll-State Farm Insurance

Agent

Russel Do It Center

Russel Marine Boating & Outdoors

Russell Home Decor

Russell Medical Center

Russell Lands Real Estate Sales Center

Satterfield

Senior Nutrition Center

Shay Aesthetics

Sho’Nuff BBQ

Smith Marina

SpringHouse

Sun’s Diner

Sunrise Docks

Super 8

Tallapoosa Publishers

Temple Medical

The Body Shop

The Ridge Club

The Square

Sure Shot Outdoors

Tippy Canoe

Truist Bank

Valley Bank

Walgreen's

Warren Appliance

Willow Point Golf & Country Club

Willow Point Office

Wind Creek State Park Gate

Wind Creek State Park Store

➤ DADEVILLE

Alabama Power

Amazin' Grazin'

Backyard Dreams

Boondocks at Bay Pine

Blue Creek Marina

Chuck's Marina

City Hall

Courthouse

Creekside Lodge

Dadeville Public Library

Dadeville Wellness Center

Deep Water Docks

Ellaby Boutique

Farmer's Merchant Bank

Floyd's Feed and Seed

Flutterflies

Harbor Pointe Marina

Holiday Shores Grocery

Ivy Creek Urgent Care

Jim's Pharmacy

Lakay's

Lake Martin Community Hospital

Lake Martin Dadeville Area Chamber

Lake Martin Pizza Co.

Lakeshore Pharmacy

Lake Martin Realty

Lucky Flight Bottle Shoppe

Martin’s at Lake Martin

McKelvey

Miller's on Broadnax

Millstone Japanese Maple Nursery

Momentum Marina

Niffer's Place

Oskar's

Payne's Furniture

Phoenix Nails

PNC Bank

Poplar Dawgs

Porch and Pine

Renfroe's Market

Route 49

Russell Building Supply

Shell

Siggers

Stillwaters Country Club

StillWaters Residential Office

Store 34

The Backyard

The Cart Source

The Grand Bakery

Three Sixty Lake Martin, LLC

Two Ghosts Coffee

Valley Bank

Wisp and Well

➤

EQUALITY

Equality Food Mart

Parker Creek Marina

Real Island Marina

Southern Star

The Landing at Parker Creek

➤ ECLECTIC

Anchor Bay Marina, Inc.

Children's Harbor Thrift Store

Cotton's BBQ

Eclectic Public Library

First Community Bank

Johnson Furniture Company

Kowaliga General Store

Kowaliga Marina

Kowaliga Restaurant

LakeScape

Lake Martin Dock Company

Lake Martin Machine Gun

Lake Martin Mini Mall

Lake Martin Reflections Spa

Nails

Offshore Marina

Russell Do It Center

Slice of Eclectic

The Social at Lake Martin

➤ WETUMPKA

First Community Bank

The Wetumpka Herald Office

➤ TALLASSEE

1220 Cafe

Chamber of Commerce

Community Hospital

Eagle (Gilmer Ave)

First Community Bank

Guardian Credit Union

Louie's Chicken Fingers

Marathon (Kent Rd)

Get LAKE magazine delivered to your mailbox for just $75 per year.

To start your subscription, call Baily Terry at 256-234-4281.

COACH KRAFT UPHOLSTERY

PARTING SHOT

LAKE

"The noblest of all dogs is the hot dog; it feeds the hand that bites it."

HelpingWidowsand Widowers Move Forward OnTheir Own

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

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

Every June, Susan Moore of Moore Wealth Management, Inc. (MWM) conducts two free workshops in Montgomery. One is designed especially for widows and their supportive friends, another one for widowers. The workshop for widows was produced by Kathleen M. Rehl, PhD, CFP, in conjunction with the Protective Life Insurance Company. The workshop covers the following topics: the impact of grief and emotion, the 3 stages of widowhood, avoiding common financial mistakes and next steps to take. The workshop will be conducted in a webinar format. The June 2026 workshop for widows will be on Wednesday, June 24th at 12 p.m. Please call 334.270.1672, or email Sarah@moorewealthmanagement.com for more information and reservations.

Kathleen Rehl is a financial advisor who was widowed at the age of 60. Although she and her husband had been financial advisors for a number of years and she had helped various clients go through the financial and legal

The loss of a spouse can be devastating, both emotionally and financially, especially if it was unexpected. The stress of handling all the legal and financial issues can be overwhelming, even for women or men who are financially savvy.

issues after the death of a spouse, it was a more difficult experience for her than she would have expected. “For me personally,” she said, “I didn’t remember my Social Security number. I couldn’t recall where I put my car keys. I wondered if I was going crazy. I wasn’t. It was just a normal part of being a new widow.”

Attendees to the workshop receive a free copy of Rehl’s book, Moving Forward on My Own, A Financial Guidebook for Widows, in addition to other valuable educational materials.

In addition, Susan will conduct a webinar for widowers on Thursday, June 25th at 12 p.m. The workshop for widowers is based on the book The Widower’s Journey: Helping Men Rebuild After Their Loss, by Herb Knoll, Deborah Carr, Ph.D., and Robert Frick. Please call 334.270.1672, or email Sarah@moorewealthmanagement.com, for more information and reservations.

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://www.kestrafinancial.com/disclosures

Kathleen M. Rehl, PhD, CFP, CeFT, Protective Life Insurance Company, Moore Wealth Management and Kestra are all separate entities.

*Rehl, Kathleen M. PhD, CFP, CeFT, Moor, Carolyn C. Leitz, Linda Grable, and John E. (2016, January) Widows “Voices: The Value of Financial Planning.” Journal of Financial Services Professionals.