POWERGRAMS

24 they pull in and want to camp out here," said Myrle Grate, who is in his fourth year as CEO. This year, 24 groups will direct 35 camps benefiting about 4,500 people. The groups have free rein of the grounds, docks, dorms, pool, miniature golf course, playground, dining hall, AV equipment and other amenities. Each group provides its own food and volunteers. Nine years ago, an adjacent thrift store was opened to help fund Children's Harbor. It is open each Friday and Saturday, and moves in March to a new building just up the road. "We are utterly dependent on the support of the community through donations and volunteering," said Grate. "We can't say enough about the assistance from the Alex City community." Across the bay from Children's Harbor, Chris Sears is busy waiting tables on a sunny winter day on the outside deck of Kowaliga Restaurant. The popular eating place is along the edge of one of the lake's most scenic points. Sears is a Houston native but his father's side of the family has roots around Lake Martin. "It definitely slows down in the winter time," said Sears, who earned a degree in anthropology from the University of Alabama. "I like it though. It's a little more peaceful, more serene this time of year." Many years ago, Sears' grandfather built a cabin across from Sheep Island in the Red Hill community near Martin Dam. The home was passed down and has now fallen into the 28-year-old's hands. Sears is living there, restoring the cabin in his spare time, while continuing to build on a legacy like many other families around the lake shores. "I've been coming to this area my whole life," Sears said. "I'm glad to finally be a real part of it." Alex City historian Laura Bell Oliver wrote the book on her hometown, but she quickly adds she "grew up on the lake." She learned to ski there. She camped there often in her early years. "Oh, my goodness, yes," she said. "It's such an important part of Alex City." A primary aspect of Lake Martin maintaining a family relationship with Alexander City is the controlled development of the housing and retail markets. "Smart growth" has been a keystone for developers dealing with Alabama Power, Russell Lands, and county and city leaders. Although the potential has always existed – and grows each day – McClellan said he would be surprised if skyscrapers ever rise along the shores outside his hometown. Another important ingredient in the life of Lake Martin has been a concentrated, coordinated effort by Alabama Power and many public and private groups to maintain a pristine watershed for all who visit, whether wildlife, customer or out-of-towner. The environment is a top concern for all involved. "This is one of the cleanest lakes in the United States," said McClellan. "You want to protect your investment, and Alabama Power protects its lake." Children's Harbor lighthouse is well known to boaters. Lake Martin is home to cabin where country star wrote hits. Photo by Marvin Gilmore Photo by Billy Brown

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