52 minute read
Terrapin Creek
PADDLE SPORTS OASIS
TERRAPIN CREEK
No one in southern Cherokee County will confuse the Warren and Nelson families’ rivalry for a Hatfield vs. McCoy scenario. Located off Alabama Highway 9, Terrapin Outdoor Center and Redneck Yacht Club are owned by Warren and Nelson, respectively. “We’re competitors, but we’re also great friends,” Nelson said. They are more than happy to draw people from all over Alabama. The entire southeast, for that matter, to paddle the pristine waters of Terrapin Creek.
Terrapin Outdoor Center was started in 1995 by Warren and his father, who was selling canoes back in 1969, long before canoeing and kayaking were cool. The family had visited the creek throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Eventually, they moved here and started the business.
Hank Nelson and his wife Teresa opened the Redneck Yacht Club as a summer gig when they saw interest in paddle sports takeoff. Consistent promotional work coupled with a feature on the television program Absolutely Alabama put Terrapin Creek on the map for good. “It just seems like Terrapin Creek caught on fire,” Hank said. “It’s one of the prettiest creeks. If we don’t get any rain, it’s crystal clear.”
Tucked away in the suburbs of Rock Run and Spring Garden, a stretch of Terrapin Creek has become a mecca for paddle sport enthusiasts. It wasn’t too many years ago that we would have said “hidden away between Piedmont and Centre,” but Terrapin Creek is no longer hidden. It has become a premier destination for paddling aficionados and beginners alike. Mike Warren at Terrapin Outdoor Center estimates that in 2020 upwards of 20,000 paddlers made a run on the crystal clear, spring-fed creek.
The stream has its headwaters in the Talladega National Forest. It empties into the Coosa River with as many as two dozen or more watersheds that contribute to the flow
of Terrapin Creek. That keeps the creek flowing throughout the summer and open to paddlers, whereas some other streams may be nearly dried up in the late summer and fall.
Float trips on the creek can be divided into two sections. They both begin at the Frank Stewart Bridge, and one finishes up near the Terrapin Outdoor Center and Redneck Yacht Club. The other float continues down to the Ellisville Bridge.
The creek’s upper section is usually a little more popular in the early spring when there is a bit more water. The lower run from the Outdoor Center and Yacht Club is big during the summer months. It is an excellent lazy float that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Halfway down the creek, there is a 20-foot deep swimming hole where visitors like to park their vessels and swim for a while. On a busy day, there may be as many as 300 boats parked there.
Further down, around the Ellisville Bridge, Nelson and some friends cut a chute through an old dam. This part of the creek is very popular since Terrapin doesn’t really have any white water.
“Kayaking, in general, has taken off in the last five years,” Hank said. “Kayaks easily outsell canoes nowadays at the Outdoor Center. Warren agreed the improvements made in the engineering and manufacturing of “sit-on-top” kayaks have helped fuel the sport’s growth. People like that they’re easier to get in and out of since you don’t have to put your feet and body down into the kayak. Today’s kayaks are self-baling, which makes it tough to swamp.”
Kayak fishing has also become a prominent sport. Warren says that fishing kayaks may be the most popular item in his store right now. “Around here, people are fishing for spotted bass and redeye bass. Or, you can swim, picnic, and just have a clean, wholesome day on Terrapin Creek.”
In addition to renting canoes and kayaks, Nelson’s Redneck Yacht Club offers three campgrounds at each of the primary take-outs on the creek and offers paddlers a restaurant, near the Hippie Hole, about halfway down the float. They also have cabin rentals, RV hook-ups, and a primitive campsite.
Photos by Joe Watts of Alabama Birding Trails
Getting Back to Nature
THE LOVE OF BIRD WATCHING
According to a 2016 report by the National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and WildlifeAssociated Recreation, more than 45 million people watch birds both at their homes and away from home. In Alabama, the opportunity for bird watching is remarkable.
Alabama Birding Trails encompasses 280 sites throughout the state. Dedicated to providing a roadmap to the public lands to observe birds is a fantastic resource as you begin your adventure.
Part of the Appalachian Highlands Birding Trail, Cherokee County, has five recognized locations. There is a wide diversity of habitats from boulders and forested mountains, to our fertile farmlands, to our rivers and Weiss Lake. The sites are easily accessible and guarantee to make a bird-watching enthusiast of the most casual beginner.
The species present varies by location and season. Several species stop in the area during migration and do not reside in the area.
Centre-Piedmont-Cherokee County Regional Airport, 8850 Highway 9, Centre The airport provides an excellent opportunity to view open short-grass fields, scrubby fencerows, and a few wet grass habitats. The site is open and level, providing a perfect sightline. It is also possible to observe from your car. The species you might see include several varieties of sparrows and swallows, Eastern Meadowlarks, Short-eared Owls, Northern Harriers, Red-tailed Hawks, and American Kestrels. In the seasonal wetlands, you might spot plovers and sandpipers on their migration. Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Cherokee Rock Village, 2000 County Road 70, Leesburg The boulder-fields provide spectacular vistas that are perfect to view soaring birds of prey. At CRV, you can also enjoy the mixed pine-oak-hickory woods, which offer an entirely different group of species. One unique of the finds in the area is the Eastern Phoebes, which next in the rock clefts. Many of the raptors you see nest in the area, so they could possibly be seen year-round. Other species include Scarlet Tanagers, Great Crested Flycatchers, and Pileated Woodpeckers. Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, and Winter
Little River Canyon Center, 4322 Little River Canyon Rim Pkwy, Fort Payne The Center is recognized as the Gateway to the Appalachian Highland Birding Trail and adjoins the Little River National Preserve. It is the ideal resource to discover bird activity in the Preserve. Visitors can hike several small trails at the Canyon Center in addition to the full Preserve. Any time of year, you might see Red-tailed Hawks, Black and Turkey Vultures. The area is frequented by migratory birds of prey, including Broad-winged Hawks. On the lower trails, you will find many species of typical suburban birds. Best Seasons: Fall and Spring
Little River Canyon Mouth Park, County Road 275, Cedar Bluff The park is located at the lowest point of Little River Canyon Preserve that is accessible by cars. The area features a classic river and forested habitat. Visitors may observe various species both by the riverside and nearby trees. They include Yellow-throated Warblers, Northern Parulas, Louisiana Waterthrushes, Belted Kingfishers, Winter Wrens, White-eyed Vireos, Common Yellowthroats, Indigo Buntings, and even some Wood Thrushes, Yellow-breasted Chats, and Hooded and Prairie Warblers. Best Seasons: Fall and Spring
Weiss Lake Overlook, Highway 68, Cedar Bluff This location offers views from an observation deck and has a boat launch for further exploration of the lake. Here you can view a magnitude of species including gull, wading birds, waterfowl, and birds of prey. They include but are not limited to gulls including Ring-billed, Bonaparte’s, and Herring. Bay ducks such as Buffleheads, Canvasbacks, Common Goldeneyes, Redheads. You might see marsh ducks, such as American Black Ducks, American Wigeons, Northern Pintails, Northern Shovelers, and Gadwalls. Easily identified, Great Blue Herons and Great Egrets are permanent residents, while other herons and egrets are migratory. Large Raptors, Bald Eagles and Osprey can be spotted in the skies and hunting in the lake. Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, and Winter
EVENT VENUES
IN CHEROKEE COUNTY
Angel Farm Venue & Rocky Hollow Pumpkin Patch
336 Rocky Hollow Road Cave Spring, GA 30124 (256) 475-3030 Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Kaye and Kent Dyer have transformed land that has been in the family for four generations into the perfect venue for celebrations and enjoying nature. The property encompasses 92-acres and features a creek with a covered bridge, a country store with covered porches, cornfields, fields of flowers, and beautiful pine and hardwood forests. The jewel of the venue is a large multipurpose pavilion barn. The barn is a 26-foot vaulted timber structure with wagon wheel chandeliers created by a local blacksmith. The venue is available for weddings, corporate events, reunions, proms, and more! In the fall, you will want to visit the Pumpkin Patch! It features pumpkin picking, an animal barn, a corn maze, and hayrides, and many other attractions to make memories with your family and friends! For more information, visit angelfarmvenue.com or rockyhollowpumpkinpatch.com.
Chattokee Lodge, LLC
1877 Alabama Highway 35 Gaylesville, AL 35973 (706) 512-0436
Cherokee Rock Village
2000 County Road 70 Sand Rock, AL 35983 (256) 523-3799
Cornwall Furnace
1200 County Road 251 Cedar Bluff, AL 35959 (256) 927-7275
Angel Farm Venue & Rocky Hollow Pumpkin Patch
Dry Creek Chapel, LLC
74 Blue Pond Road · Leesburg, AL 35983 (256) 557-0648 The perfect site to host the wedding of your dreams. The venue is a beautiful mix of fields and wooded timber on the 15acre property. There is an open-air chapel that accommodates 200-250 guests. The chapel is built from hand-sawed lumber harvested from the site providing a welcoming rustic feel. There is a beautiful reception barn that is a perfect blend of farmhouse and industrial designs. The venue also features a bridal suite and groom’s loft. There are other locations throughout the property to provide your ideal wedding backdrop for your service. For more information, visit drycreekchapel.com.
Little River Canyon Center
4322 Little River Trail NE · Fort Payne, AL 35967 (256) 845-7213
Little River Lodge & Cherokee Cabins
1975 County Road 275 · Fort Payne, AL 35967 (205) 338-1954
The Gathering Place @ Bay Springs Country Inn
130 County Road 112 · Centre, AL 35960 (256) 927-3618
The Magnolia House on Weiss Lake
1120 County Road 165 · Cedar Bluff, AL 35959 (770) 778-1547 A beautiful vacation home and wedding venue. The original house, circa. 1870, has been completely remodeled and is fully furnished. The complex features several locations available for the ceremony, most with stunning lake views. Your guests can dance the night away at either the indoor or outdoor reception areas. This facility is an ideal location to celebrate anniversaries, corporate functions, proms, family, and class reunions. As of late 2020, renovations and construction continue the property to add cabins and camping. For more information, follow them on Facebook.
The Secret Bed & Breakfast
2356 Ala. Highway 68 West · Leesburg, AL 35983 (256) 523-3825
Dry Creek Chapel
The Magnolia House On Lake Weiss
For More Information on Cherokee County Event Venues, Visit our website www.cherokee-chamber.org or call 256-927-8455
WEISS INTERNET The Back Story
When Donald and Debbie Sullivan moved to Cherokee County, they had no idea where that would lead them.
Both grew up in Rockmart, Georgia, and were high school sweethearts. They were married in 1999 and had always wanted to move to Weiss Lake, where Donald spent much of his childhood. Debbie had appreciated her job opportunities, working for a call center for several years and in the medical field, where she obtained her degree. Donald had worked as a transmission specialist but switched gears in 2008, working from home writing code for software programs. His extended education had been in network engineering, primarily he was self-taught, revealing a natural talent for software and Internet problem-solving.
The pair moved to Cherokee County in 2011, and in 2014, they were happily beginning to build their new home on Weiss when they discovered they had serious Internet connectivity problems. It was practically non-existent. Donald and Debbie were faced with a career choice: sell their new property or build their own Internet service. They chose the latter.
Donald had actually toyed with the idea of building wireless Internet in the past, so the concept was not wholly foreign. They erected one pole in their front yard—a sight, Debbie says, that was not esthetically pleasing. Unfortunately, it was all they could do at the time, but it worked, delivering a startup of three megabits.
As news of their project circulated to a few close neighbors, people asked if they too could join on, and the Sullivans were happy to oblige, but it was minimal. With only enough bandwidth for those few, the plans to build an upgrade began, and the idea for Weiss Internet was born. They wanted to create a network to reach rural areas that had previously been neglected.
Their challenge was in knowing the level of interest and finding a way to deliver internet to those customers. Equally excited and nervous, they began to work.
As word of a possible new Internet service circulated, all who had been suffering under the same strains began to call and request service. That was six years ago. Their customer base that began with just a few homes is today now approaching 2,000 and growing.
They began with a single pole. Today, a large hybrid network of towers, poles, and fiber optic cable allow customers to access data anywhere in the world they choose, effectively and efficiently. Weiss Internet offers a 24/7 call center specifically and expertly designed for wireless Internet. Six technicians and office personnel handle customer needs and inquiries with smooth and easy service.
Along with a thriving company, the Sullivans are busy with other business endeavors, friends, and family–very happy they took the big step to move to Cherokee County.
EATING ON LAKE WEISS
RESTAURANTS & FOOD
CEDAR BLUFF
The Burger Shack
4085 AL Hwy 9 Cedar Bluff, AL 35959 256-779-7244
The Big Chill (seasonal) 4900 Hwy 68 Cedar Bluff, AL 35959 256-453-0260
CENTRE
Bar B Que Place & More
800 Alexis Road Centre, AL 35960 256-927-3793
Centre Fuel City & BBQ
125 East Chesnut Bypass Centre, AL 35960 256-927-3006
Dammed Good Coffee Company
181 West Main Street Centre, AL 35960 256-266-1515
Dari King
920 West Main Street Centre, AL 35960 256-266-1160
Easy Street Restaurant Bar & Performance Hall
1605 West Main Street Centre, AL 35960 256-494-8882
F.C. Weiss Pub & Eatery
181 W. Main Street Centre, AL 35960 256-266-1515
Huddle House
1580 West Main Street Centre, AL 35960 256-927-3992
Ingles Deli
1550 W. Main Street Centre, AL 35960 256-927-3992
Jack’s of Centre
1205 Chesnut Bypass Centre, AL 35960 Jake’s on the Lake (seasonal) 4293 County Road 63 Centre, AL 35960
Kentucky Fried Chicken
1925 West Main Street Centre, AL 35960 KFC.com
Little Caesar’s Pizza
1494 Chesnut Bypass Centre, AL 35960 256-927-8088
McDonald’s of Centre
650 Cedar Bluff Road Centre, AL 35960 256-927-4200
Pat’s Perfections & Catering
1820 East Bypass Centre, AL 35960 256-927-4060
Rooster’s Deli
4645 County Road 22 Centre, AL 35960 256- 630-7921
Royal Waffle King
101 Piedmont Road Centre, AL 35960 256-927-6555
Sageberry Catering
1235 County Road 162 Centre, AL 35960 256-475-3398
Sherri’s Bakery
7 Sunflower Court Centre, AL 35960 256-927-2183
The Fishin’ Hole
500 Chesnut Bypass Centre, AL 35960 256-706-2036
Taco Bell
1545 Chesnut Bypass Centre, AL 35960 Tacobell.com
Taco Mix
758 Hwy 9 Cherokee Plaza Centre, AL 35960
Tony’s Steak Barn
804 Alexis Road Centre, AL 35960 256-927-2844
Walmart Deli
1950 West Main Street Centre, AL 35960 256-927-9900
LEESBURG
Artic Snow
170 Industrial Blvd. Leesburg, AL 35983 256-526-7669
Coosa Corner
5770 Weiss Lake Blvd. Leesburg, AL 35983 256-526-7800
Decks & Docks
165 Chambers Street Leesburg, AL 35983 256-526-3325
LaMarina Mexican Restaurant
105 Holman Street Leesburg, AL 35983 256-526-7168
Nate’s Pizzeria
282 Industrial Blvd Leesburg, AL 35983 256-630-9924
SAND ROCK
Mountain Parkway Grill
85 Overlook Street Centre, AL 35960 256-523-5555
DOGTOWN
Woody’s Family Grill
105 County Road 89 Fort Payne, AL 35967 256-364-2221
OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Located in northeast Alabama, Cherokee County has unique natural features and impressive attractions that provide numerous opportunities for adventure. Whether you are looking for a day out on the water, a walk or hike to bask in the beauty of nature, or a special place to get away, Cherokee County is the perfect place to make memories.
Alabama Scenic River Trail
Remarkably, there is a 631-mile journey over water that will take you from the mountains of northeast Alabama to the waves of the Gulf of Mexico that begins right in the heart of Cherokee County, Weiss Lake. Recognized by the National Park Service as the longest river trail in a single state, the ASRT can be enjoyed by both paddling and powerboats. The trail offers nearly 5000 miles to explore through over 43 accessible waterways. You will find campsites and amenities along the journey. From beginning to end, the journey takes about 48 days, but the trail is designed to allow different stages to be enjoyed as day paddles or sections. For more information, visit alabamascenicrivertrail.com.
Appalachian Highlands Birding Trail
There are five Cherokee County locations recognized on the Alabama Birding Trail that can be enjoyed by both the casual observer as well as the more devoted birder. The Centre-Piedmont-Cherokee County Regional Airport, Cherokee Rock Village, Little River Canyon Center, Canyon Mouth Park, and Weiss Lake Overlook. Weiss Lake is home to numerous species of waterfowl, gulls, and eagles. The number and variety of birds at each location will change according to season and weather conditions. For more information, visit alabamabirdingtrails.com.
Cherokee County Country Club
Located in Centre, Cherokee County Country Club, is a semi-private golf course and practice facility. The 18-hole course measures over 6,000 yards from the back tees and offers a 71-par layout with a rating of 68.4. The course is designed to be enjoyed by golfers of all levels. Highlighting the natural beauty of Cherokee County, at the picturesque 17th hole, you will find a splendid panoramic view at the summit of the course. Cherokee County Country Club is easily accessed from surrounding areas, including Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee. For more information, visit ccccgolf.com.
Cherokee Rock Village
Often referred to as Little Rock City or simply, Sand Rock, Cherokee Rock Village is an outdoor enthusiasts dream. The park encompasses 200-acres of sandstone boulders reaching as high as 200-feet. They feature crags, cliffs, and
tall rock formations for climbing. For those who like to stay closer to the ground, you can enjoy the 14-miles of hiking, equestrian, and mountain biking trails, as well as bird watching and geocaching. The park offers spectacular views of Weiss Lake and the surrounding valley. Amenities include primitive camping, pavilion, picnic area, playground, and heated bathhouse. For more information, visit ccparkboard. com/parks/cherokee-rock-village.
Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park
Located near Cedar Bluff, this park honors those who fought in the Civil War. The cold blast furnace was built in 1862 and was the first in the county to be powered by water. The furnace supplied iron ore for the Noble Foundry in nearby Rome, Georgia. The furnace stack and canal still survive at the 5-acre park. The site has been registered on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972. Currently, the park features a fireplace, pavilion, picnic tables on the shore of Weiss Lake. You will also find an illustrated history display. For more information, visit ccparkboard.com.
411 Twin Drive-in Theatre & Grill
Located at 300 County Road 265 (Old Hwy 411) between Centre and Leesburg. It is home of great food and great movies. The theater is open year-round, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and open 7 nights a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day, playing all new release movies with 2 double features to choose from every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Great food and great prices, it’s fun for the whole family!
Indian Mountain ATV Park
Located near Spring Garden, Indian Mountain ATV Park is the largest off-road park in northeast Alabama. Covering over 4,700 acres in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains the natural environment features over 150 miles of trails. The trails are of various elevations and difficulty with some featuring natural water hazards. The family owned park is a wonderful place to kick back and relax. In addition to OHV trail riding Indian Mountain also offers camping, fishing, and hiking. For more information, visit indianmtnatvpark.com.
Leesburg Landing & RV Park
Located on Weiss Lake, Leesburg Landing is a popular spot that features a public four-lane concrete boat launch with two 50-foot access piers. There is ample paved parking that accommodates up to 262 truck and trailer rigs. Due to its size and amenities, Leesburg Landing is the site of many local and regional fishing tournaments. The park also offers both primitive and RV camping. You can find the bath house located near the primitive campsites. There is a large pavilion which is used for large gatherings and events. The RV slips include full-service hookups. During your visit, you can enjoy walks along the two-mile nature trail or the one-mile paved walking track. For more information, visit leesburgal.com.
Little River Canyon National Preserve
Located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains atop of Lookout Mountain, you will find diverse terrain and beauty. The Preserve consists of 15,288-acres featuring forested uplands with waterfalls, canyon rims and bluffs, and sandstone cliffs that are utilized for a variety of recreational activities.
Little River Waterfalls is located on Hwy 35 with boardwalk access to overlooks that are handicapped accessible. Picnic areas and trails can be enjoyed.
For access in Cherokee County, Canyon Mouth Park is on AL Hwy 273, between Leesburg and Blanche. This day recreational area offers easy water access as well as an easy one-mile hiking trail along the river. There are grills and picnic areas to enjoy in the natural setting. Kids can enjoy the playground which is also handicapped accessible. For additional information, visit nationalparks.org/exploreparks/little-river-canyon-national-preserve.
Pirates Bay Water Park at Chesnut Bay Resort and RV Resort
Fun for the entire family can be found at Pirates Bay in Leesburg. The park features swimming pools, tube slides, body slides, a water house, and a splash pad. The entire park offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. There is a separate water area for younger visitors to enjoy. With the price of admission, you also can try your luck on the 9-hole putt-putt golf course built in the natural woods setting, enjoy the large playground for kids, and play games in the arcade room. For more information, visit piratesbaywaterpark.com.
Terrapin Creek
If you are ready for a day of kayaking or canoeing, head to Terrapin Creek near Spring Garden. There you will find a 14-miles of floatable water. The point-to-point trail is rated as a Class I-II recreational stream offering floating, fishing, and swimming. Flowing from the Talladega National Forest, it is an excellent float fishing stream. The broad expanse of the river also offers ideal locations for fly fishing. Redneck Yacht Club and Terrapin Outdoor Center offer services and rentals for this run of Terrapin Creek. For more information, visit redneckyachtclubcanoeandkayakrental. com or canoeshop.net.
Weiss Lake
The lake had its origins in the Alabama Power project to develop more of the Coosa River with the construction of Weiss Dam in the late 1950s and 1960s. As the lake is now, it currently covers 30,200 acres with a length of 52 miles and 447 miles of shoreline. The underwater terrain of the lake features shallow flats, large coves, under-water dropoffs, and deep channels. A fisherman’s paradise, Weiss is known as the Crappie Capital of the World and numerous species, including catfish, bream, and bass. Alabama Power and its state and local partners operate and maintain dozens of boat ramps and bank fishing access sites along the shoreline. The company also supports thousands of acres of natural and undeveloped land along the lakes for use by hikers, birdwatchers, and primitive campers. For more information, visit apcshorelines.com/our-lakes/weiss.
Yellow Creek Falls
A favorite destination for boaters and kayakers, Yellow Creek Falls, reach 100-feet in height and tumble to a blue hole at its base that is a favorite for swimmers. From the water, this scenic location is marked by giant stone trestles that once were part of the Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia Rail Line. The falls are located on Highway 273 near Leesburg and may be accessed by land and water. Yellow Creek Falls Fish Camp is located nearby for canoe and kayak rentals. For more information, find them on Facebook at Yellow Creek Falls Fish Camp.
Lee Pitts grew up in the Fort Payne area but has spent much of his life behind the wheel of a bass boat on Weiss Lake. Making a living by fishing and guiding visitors on the lake is hard for Lee to call work. It’s more like a dream come true.
GONE FISHIN’
WITH LEE PITTS
Lee has been leading fellow anglers around the lake off and on for about 25 years. Even with full-time jobs, he always managed to find time to take folks out on the water. Previously, he has been employed at a steel plant in Ft. Payne, Alabama, and owned a convenience store in Gaylesville. He went fulltime into the fishing and outdoor guide business about 15 years ago. He says it’s just been his passion all of his life.
Lee figures he’s out on the water at least 225 days out of the year, much of that during 50 to 60 days straight. The crappie season kicks off in mid-January and runs through mid-May, and the fall season starts in mid-September, running until around Thanksgiving. “When the daylight hours start getting shorter, the water cools down, and fish start biting. Then after an excellent October and November, Lee takes time off for deer hunting.
Weiss draws fishers nation-wide. Lee estimates as much as 80% of his clients come from the lakes in the region of northern Tennessee into Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. Some fishing enthusiasts hail from Canada, but he gives credit for the visit to his buddies on the NASCAR circuit at Talladega, Alabama.
He often offers fitting advice to his customers, depending on the time of year he guides them on Weiss. In the early spring, he recommends “float and fly,” a technique that targets schooling fish starting on their migratory pattern toward the main creeks and tributaries to spawn, which hits mid-March and April. He also does a fair bit of long-line trolling, which is a great way to attract fish chasing bait. He may have eight to ten rods out on the boat, letting the boat do all the fishing passengers’ work. We try to intercept fish as they’re coming in and out of these creeks. He also employs what he calls “Junkyard Dog” fishing, which involves going after big Coosa Spotted Bass that like to lay under rough log jams and stump rows.
Weiss Lake has some 32,000 acres of water, and Lee believes he has probably reached all of them. Crappie remains king at Weiss, but Lee thinks the bass fishery has improved. In the last six or seven years, Lee says to win a bass tournament, the fish had to weigh in the 17 to19 pound group. Now, the winning catch is somewhere in the mid-20-pound group. He feels that so much backwater and abundance of spawning areas are helping fish production. He explains that it’s not just one or two creeks where the fish go to spawn-- the entire 32,000 acres of water are virtually fishable.
In addition to his guide service, Lee participates professionally in the Alabama Bass Trail tournaments. He finds bass fishing at Weiss to be very exciting and memorable. Baitfish are plentiful and found in small pockets in the creeks. Finding the baitfish, primarily shad, will lead to the big bass that are always in search of food. He also shares his expertise by volunteering with the Cherokee County 4-H program, helping youth learn more about fishing and the outdoors.
He also attends writers’ camps that take place at different locations throughout the country. Such events allow him to meet and talk with fishing journalists, hearing their lectures and stories. Many of the writers’ camps are arranged through the Alabama Mountain Lakes division of the Alabama Tourism Department.
For Lee Pitts, enjoying life is all about being outside and helping people discover and appreciate the natural beauty and assets that surround, and is Weiss Lake.
For more information, visit pittsoutdoors.com or follow Lee on Facebook.
JERRY CULBERSON CHEROKEE COUNTY’S AMBASSADOR
Jerry Culberson has been fishing at Weiss Lake almost since the day Alabama Power opened it to the public. It was the late 50s, and everyone was talking about the hydro-electric plant being built in Leesburg. People were so interested and curious, they would drive miles, bringing picnic lunches to watch the progress and the landscape transform into Weiss Lake. When Jerry’s grandparents bought a recreational lot on the shoreline, it was the beginning of his lifelong attachment to the lake, Cherokee County and its people.
Jerry was born in Marietta, Georgia, in 1949. Eventually, there would be five children to raise and support. His parents followed employment with the Georgia textile mills, working to support the family with earnings never much more than five thousand dollars a year. When he was just a few months old, the family moved to Trion, Georgia.
He learned to work hard early in life and would haul hay all day for fifty cents or cut grass with discarded shears from the textile mill. But growing up was not without fun, and the boys would find it playing outdoors or best yet, going fishing and sometimes with their dad. They would scour the riverbanks looking for lost or discarded jigs and lures to repair and use again.
“We knew to stay out of any serious trouble, but sometimes funny pranks were just too irresistible. One of which brought down the wrath of our granddad,” he recalled. “It happened on Halloween night. Trion Manufacturing, the cotton mill, owned most of the property around, including the outhouses placed to accommodate the workers. It was common knowledge that Halloween’s “traditional” trick was to tip over outhouses, which were built partially hanging over the banks of the Chattooga River. After the deed was done, and we had gone in for the night, we were surprised when a very angry grandpa came hunting us culprits. We couldn’t understand why he was so mad—until we learned he was an outhouse occupant at the time.”
When Jerry was still in elementary school, they moved to Chickamauga, Georgia, not far from Chattanooga, Tennessee. It, too, a mill town. They lived with a railroad track about 50 feet from their house, but within walking distance to school. In good weather, the area was a kid magnet. “If you took a ball and bat outside, 15 kids would appear, complete with cheerleaders,” Jerry recalled.
Jerry attended the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga and McKenzie College and snagged a job when he was 19 with the Burroughs Corporation by fudging the age requirement. His job was to sell equipment and service contracts to banks, and bonding was required at a minimum age of 21. Always ambitious, it was just a few years before he was employed by IBM. Later on, he sold institutional textiles, the job which introduced him to the administration side of nursing homes and long-term care facilities.
When he actually was 21, he met and married Patricia Stephens, a teller in a Birmingham bank. “We were young and just starting out, so we didn’t have much money. So, on our first anniversary, I brought her a single rose and have added another each year thereafter, commemorating our years together. This year, there were 49 roses. That’s why I am still working—to pay for all the roses,” he joked.
The couple strategically chose to make Anniston their home base, primarily because of its central location to his working service area. He traveled continuously throughout eight states and was on the road all week, away from Patricia and their three children more than he liked. “When my daughter, Trudy, mailed me an invitation to her high school
In 1982, he was offered a position with the Northport Health Services in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. His job was to computerize and upgrade their facilities. (Today, NHS Management, LLC, is the state’s largest nursing home chain, providing administrative and consulting services for individual health care facilities and companies across the southeast.)
Associating and working with administrators of care facilities led him down a new occupational path, and he began arduous training toward his licensing as an administrator himself. Passing all tests and requirements. Using his experience and understanding of the health and long-term care facilities, he launched his own company, Preferred Health Services.
“I had often visited the little nursing home in Cherokee County with 30 employees and 53 beds. I was drawn to it, and I wondered if I could convince the authority to let me serve as its manager. They were hard to convince, and I tried repeatedly to no avail. But things changed. The hospital that had been catering meals and supplying laundry service suddenly announced they would discontinue services within a three-week period. That meant that the nursing home would need a kitchen installed immediately. The authority asked me if I could do the job, and I did. The rest is history. In 1988, I took over as the onsite administrator, and we are still affiliated after 24 years. I moved my family and business to Cherokee County, and never left.”
The Cherokee County Health and Rehabilitation Center has become the third largest employer in the county. With only 32 employees in the beginning, they now have 325. In addition, PHS works with over 20 healthcare companies and motels, providing them managing and financial services.
Jerry has been instrumental in the formation and creation of many projects of improvement in the area, much on behalf of Weiss Lake and its health. He listened to fisherman coming to fish here and realized how much additional lodging was needed. He has built two motels, a convenience store and restaurant in the past and feels we need more to entice fishing, boating and water recreation. He believes Cherokee County has much more to offer, too, including hiking, camping and the love of nature itself. He reminds us that birding has become a multi-billion-dollar ecotourism industry.
He also has continually supported programs beneficial to the community, both financially and civically. With many awards and accomplishments, he is most proud of being a founder of the SO-COOL program created 27 years ago to provide summer activities for kids. (SO-COOL is the acronym for School’s Out Camp of Organized Learning.) Today the program draws 100 kids during the 5-week period. With volunteers, the Rotary Club and Cherokee County Board of Education provides lunches and a well-organized positive experience.
Jerry enjoys living in Cherokee County and has encouraged his brothers to relocate here after retirement, which two have. One is retired military, and a health care administrator and the second, a correction officer. The third brother is an accountant who runs his own textile company in Carrrolton, Georgia.
Jerry and Patricia’s three grown children have also chosen to make Cherokee County their home. Son, BJ, is a business owner. Valerie Davis, a homemaker and Trudy Lowe, who is the Chief Operations Officer at PHS. Grandson, Donnie Lowe, is the Assistant Administrator of the Piedmont Health & Rehab Center.
A born ambassador for Cherokee County, Jerry Culberson thinks everyone should take great pride in our many natural resources, Weiss Lake, our remarkable community and its friendly, welcoming people.
Jerry Culberson has received many awards and accommodations for accomplishments, both professionally and civically. Some include...
• Long-term care Administrator of Year, Alabama
Nursing Home Association, 1991 • Alabama Nursing Home Administrator of the Year, 1992
• Escribed, State of Alabama Senior Citizen’s Hall of
Fame, Governor’s Office, 1996 • Rotarian of the Year, 1998 • Chairman of the Board, Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce, 2001. • Recipient, Estell S. Smith Community Service Award • Co-Founder, SO COOL summer youth program • Alabama Senior Citizen Golden Eagle Award • Founder, Anglers Unlimited, present Chair • Public access provider, Graves Landing, Weiss Lake, current
• Weiss Lake Improvement Assoc., Member
After accompanying his mother on a business trip to Los Angeles in January of 2016, everything changed. One of the speakers at the meeting addressed the importance of using your natural gifts and following God’s plan for your life. This was a life-changing moment for Steed; he decided to pursue a career on the stage.
CHAD STEED
FROM THEATRE CENTRE TO DOLLYWOOD
Cherokee County native Chad Steed had followed the path many of us do, graduate from high school, go to college, graduate, and start your career. A graduate of Cherokee County High School, he continued his education at Jacksonville State University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in Social Work. While working at the Centre campus of Gadsden State, he was also working on a master’s degree from the University of Alabama in Birmingham.
After accompanying his mother on a business trip to Los Angeles in January of 2016, everything changed. One of the speakers at the meeting addressed the importance of using your natural gifts and following God’s plan for your life. This was a life-changing moment for Steed; he decided to pursue a career on the stage.
As a former member of TheatreCentre, he had enjoyed the opportunity to express himself and explore his creative talents. In February, he attended an open call audition in Spartanburg, South Carolina, for the award-winning theme park Dollywood. Prospects were expected to do both vocal and dance auditions. He said, “I showed up with no professional experience, no headshot. All I had was the desire to perform.” Within two months, the transformation was complete. After signing a contract in March, he gave his employer notice and sold his house. In April 2016, he started on the stage at Dollywood.
In his fifth season at Dollywood, Chad has performed in many different venues and shows at the park. Most recently, he was the host and featured vocalist at Live at the Back Porch. He was also a member of the Christmas Cast in the Smokies as Gabriel performing The Lord is with You. In 2018 Steed was nominated as Performer of the Year by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.
Although his career has taken him out of Cherokee County, he always appreciates the community members that visit him when they are at the park. He also loves to perform when he is in town, including at the TheatreCentre, where the dream began.
Brothers Harlan, Jerry, and Hank Richardson grew up farming the fertile land of Cherokee County. In 1974, they opened their first greenhouse, Richardson Greenhouse. As the company grew, they merged with another local greenhouse in 1979, and Dixie Green was born.
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DIXIE GREEN
A FAMILY TRADITION
(Continued from page 58)
Brothers Harlan, Jerry, and Hank Richardson grew up farming the fertile land of Cherokee County. In 1974, they opened their first greenhouse, Richardson Greenhouse. In a 28’ x 96’, together, they learned to cultivate and sell house plants. The brothers traveled the area and sold to garden centers from the back of a truck with a camper shell. As the company grew, they merged with another local greenhouse in 1979, and Dixie Green was born.
Many things have changed in 46-years of business, while others are as steadfast as their Cherokee County roots. For example, many local garden centers have been replaced by big-box retailers, and plants are no longer delivered by a pickup truck with a camper shell but a tractor-trailers fleet. What remains is the dedication of the Richardson’s to quality, family, and community.
Their facility, located on County Road 69 in Centre, features 12-acres of heated greenhouses and 8-acres of openair pad growing space. Dixie Green grows various plants, including Spring annuals, Fall mums, and Poinsettias for the holidays. While most find their way to the retail market through multiple customers, many are sold directly to groups for fundraising programs.
Through dedication and hard work, they yield a significant number of products. Annually they send approximately 500,000 spring plants, 325,000 caladiums, 15,000 ferns, 250,000 mums, and 250,000 poinsettias throughout the Southeast.
You will often not know which plants are cultivated at Dixie Green, but if you find your way to Walt Disney World during the Christmas season, you will see their work in full display. Each year the company ships approximately 80,000 poinsettias to the Happiest Place on Earth to set the holiday scene. They also provide seasonal caladiums for the theme park.
The company is now led by Hank and his two sons, John and Daniel. Hank currently runs the office and oversees the day-to-day operations of the business. John is the head grower while Daniel manages irrigation, trucking, and shipping. Dixie Green employs 35 people and add more as needed during peak seasons.
They were recently recognized as the 2019 Alabama Farm of Distinction by Farm-City based on their productivity, stewardship, and management. They were also named 2019 Swisher Sweets Farmer of the Year for Alabama at the Sunbelt Expo.
Hank and his wife, Sheila, are active members of the community. In addition to being members of the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce, they are leaders in their church and spend time volunteering with local youth sports groups. Hank has served in the Ellisville Volunteer Fire Department for over 30 years and currently serves as Fire Chief. Hank is the Treasurer for the Cherokee County Association of Fire Departments and the Fire Department Honor Guard. Both John and Daniel are also members and serve as paramedics.
RISING STARS
OF CHEROKEE COUNTY
These outstanding residents of Cherokee County exhibit exceptional qualities that will no doubt serve not only them in their chosen careers, but help create the future leadership of our community.
Farm Living is the Life for Me
Cherokee Gin is now the largest producing gin in Alabama, handling some 8 to 10 percent of Alabama’s crops. And Manager Rich Lindsey is delighted to have worked alongside others in making a huge difference in agriculture.
Lindsey, a life-long resident of Cherokee County, is a 2005 graduate of Cedar Bluff High School. During this time, he co-opted at the gin. His post-secondary education was interrupted when he built some chicken houses with a partner and was still heavily involved in work on the gin.
“Ever since I was a kid growing up, I loved the farm and the gin,” said Lindsey. “My kindergarten and first-grade teacher, Kay Davis, used to have to bargain with me to get me to come to school. I used to stay home and help my granddad at the gin.”
While he was in high school, Rich also developed an interest in firefighting. Eventually, he became chief of the McCord’s Crossroads Fire Department. He considers his work with the fire department the most rewarding thing he has ever done.
Cherokee County is a special place, he said. “When I was growing up, we had a little country store and a gin in the Alexis, Osceola Community,” said Lindsey. “My grandfather told me ‘we make a living off local people and we do business with local people,’ and I have always tried to live off that principle and follow that as much as possible.” Lindsey is the son of Richard and Johna Lindsey. He and wife, Cassandra, have one daughter, Savannah, 3, and a son on the way in early 2021. Cassandra is employed by the Cherokee County School System.
They are Ebenezer United Methodist Church members, where Rich is music minister and serves as lay leader.
Fitness Has No Age Limit Never Take Your Hearing for Granted
For Donnie Lowe, fitness is full-time. As the owner of The Center and as a nursing home administrator, his goal is to help people keep active as long as possible. This will help ensure they maintain their independence and quality of life.
A graduate of the University of Alabama where he played football, Lowe earned a degree in Human Performance and, after football, spent two years as an undergrad assistant with the Strength and Conditioning program.
After spending 11 years in Tuscaloosa as a police officer, he and his wife moved back to Cherokee County. He accepted a position at Cherokee County Health and Rehabilitation, which is owned by the Cherokee County Health Care Authority and managed by his grandfather, Jerry Culberson. Currently, he serves as the assistant administrator at the Piedmont Nursing Home.
“Opening a gym had always been in the back of my mind,” said Lowe. After moving to Cherokee County, he saw a need and opportunity for the type of gym he wanted to open and found a prime spot on Main Street in Centre. And The Center, a fitness and strength training business, was born. The Center offers classes and individual instruction to help clients meet their personal goal.
The Lowes are Pine Grove Baptist Church members, where his wife, Avery, is in the choir. Avery is also a Coast Guard Reservist. They have two children, Tallulah and Trip (Donnie Lowe III).
“We continue to put our roots down here personally and professionally and are excited about the future and extremely happy with our choice to live here,” said Lowe.
For Katelyn Wilson West, there is nothing more rewarding than improving the quality of life for those who thought they would never again hear the sounds of nature or the laughter of their grandchildren.
West, a life-long resident of Cherokee County, is a 2008 graduate of Cherokee County High School and a graduate of the University of Alabama with a degree in communicative disorders.
West began her career as an apprentice for Todd Wright with Wright Hearing Center. After five years, she bought the practice which was located on the bypass in Centre. Shortly afterward, she renovated space on Main Street. She moved the Hearing Centre next to the office of her father, Dr. Myron Wilson, a local optometrist.
“Most people come in when they are having trouble understanding speech,” said West. “If you are having trouble hearing people, if everybody sounds like they mumble, more than likely, it is not everybody else mumbling. You may have a little bit of hearing loss.”
She shared how many of today’s hearing aids are inconspicuous and how they can use Blue Tooth through smartphones and other devices and other technology to provide that quality of hearing we all long for. “I also offer hearing protection for hunting, which I highly recommend to everybody in the area, so they don’t have to wear hearing aids when they get older,” she said.
As a businesswoman and a citizen, there is no other place like Cherokee County, “You have that personal feel, and everybody is good to everybody,” she said.
Katelyn, daughter of Dr. Myron and Susan Wilson, is married to Zack West, who works at Anniston Army Depot. They attend Cedar Bluff Methodist Church and Alexis Methodist Church. Zack has one son, Brody, 7, who plays in the Cherokee County Youth Football League.
Community Profiles
Our communities are nestled in the quiet countryside of northeast Alabama, and centrally located in the ABC Triangle of Atlanta, Birmingham and Chattanooga. On any given day you’ll see the farmers at work in their fields, families together at campgrounds, people fishing, water skiing, boating, canoeing, hiking, hunting, birdwatching and so much more. Whether you’re coming for business, for fun or looking for a place to call home, we have plenty to offer. Come explore!
CEDAR BLUFF
Since its founding in 1832, Cedar Bluff has been a welcoming community representing a small southern town’s values. Conveniently located between Atlanta, Birmingham, Chattanooga, and Huntsville, this rustic community is the perfect location to enjoy a vacation with family and friends.
Surrounded by the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, the town is nestled on the shoreline of Weiss Lake. You will enjoy the hometown atmosphere as you enjoy abundant fishing, camping, and recreation opportunities.
Access to the lake is available through public and private campgrounds, docks, and marinas. For history lovers, a visit to Cornwall Furnace Memorial Park, one of the bestpreserved locations from the Civil War period, is a must.
Over 1800 people call Cedar Bluff home, where they enjoy affordable lakeside living and a close-knit sense of community. Students attend the Cedar Bluff School for grades K-12, which has been recognized as one of the top high schools in the country. There are opportunities for higher education at seven colleges and universities within a 35-mile radius.
When you visit Cedar Bluff, you can stop looking for the good life because you will find it here.
For more information, visit cedarbluff-al.org
CENTRE
GAYLESVILLE
In the heart of Cherokee County is the bustling city of Centre. The city has served as the county seat of Cherokee County since 1844. The residents petitioned to change the spelling to the British English spelling of Centre to honor an English family that helped settle the area. Not only the geographical center of the county, but also the center of education, commerce, and hospitality for Cherokee County.
The community features three schools encompassing grades K through 12. Centre is also the home of the award-winning Cherokee County Career and Technical Center. The CCCTC helps students throughout the county discover vocational skills that prepare them for a successful future. Centre is also the home of a satellite campus of Gadsden State Community College.
You will find a revitalized city in the downtown district that embraces the future while honoring its past. Local businesses provide goods and services for residents and visitors while providing essential jobs to the community.
As with much of Cherokee County, Weiss Lake serves as the focal point. Always ready to roll out the red carpet for those visiting. There is access to the water at local marinas and quaint lodges and motels to feel at home during your stay.
Tucked in northeastern Cherokee County, you will find the beautiful town of Gaylesville. The community is nestled along the Chattooga River, at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
It is a small community that is one of the oldest in Alabama and the oldest in Cherokee County. It was recognized as a destination when it was designated with a Post Office in 1836. Here natural beauty abounds. You will find Little River Canyon Natural Preserve and Little River Falls. The Preserve offers recreational opportunities that are enjoyed by locals and tourists.
Gaylesville is a delightful place to visit or call home. While things may move a bit slower here, you will find it worth the journey.
LEESBURG
SAND ROCK
Leesburg has the motto, “Come enjoy and stay awhile,” after seeing all that the quaint town has to offer, it is an easy choice.
Industry has found a home in Leesburg. In the last annual employment report by the Cherokee County IDA, three of the county’s top ten employers, KTH, Parkdale, and Prince Mineral account for over 880 jobs that impact the community.
Weiss Lake is rarely out of view, with both public and private access to the lake. One important access point is Leesburg Landing. Through dedication and vision, the town has taken a small local park and created a modern facility that is now the home of numerous fishing tournaments throughout the season. The landing features a wide concrete boat ramp with two access piers, a pavilion, and a large, paved parking lot. Both primitive and RV camping are available with nature walking trails.
Sitting on top of Lookout Mountain is the hilltop community of Sand Rock. Compared to the surrounding area, the town of Sand Rock is relatively young. It was incorporated in 1988. The town, however, has a rich history, dating back to the 1800s.
Rich in hospitality, natural beauty, and strong family and faith traditions, Citizens of Sand Rock value its rural heritage, dedicated schools, supportive community, and strong work ethic.
The small town is home to approximately 500 people. They enjoy quiet country living with easy access to the larger cities in the surrounding area. Residents along the south and east of Lookout Mountain are treated to spectacular views of mountain rocks, beautiful foliage, and Weiss Lake in the distance.
Sand Rock is the home of Cherokee Rock Village which is a favorite destination of rock climbers from around the world. Visitors can also enjoy primitive camping, hiking trails.
For more information on Sand Rock, visit sandrock-al.org.
NEWCOMER INFORMATION
IMPORTANT CONTACT NUMBERS
If you are new to Cherokee County, the following information will be helpful. For additional information, please call the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce at 256-927-8455.
Police & Fire
For All Emergencies ......................................................... 911 Sheriff Department .......................................................... 256.927.3365
County Offices
Animal Control................................................................ 256.266.1390 Board of Education .......................................................... 256.927.3362 Circuit Clerk.................................................................... 256.927.3637 Commission..................................................................... 256.927.3668 Criminal & District ......................................................... 256.927.3637 District Attorney.............................................................. 256.927.5577 E911 Office...................................................................... 256.927.3911 Extension Office............................................................... 256.927.3250 Forestry Commission ....................................................... 256.563.0021 Highway Department....................................................... 256.927.5573 Humane Society............................................................... 256.779.7159 Nutrition Program ........................................................... 256.927.8432 Probate Judge................................................................... 256.927.3363 Public Library .................................................................. 256.927.5838 Public Transportation....................................................... 256.927.7472 Revenue Commission....................................................... 256.927.5527 Tag & License .................................................................. 256.927.3654
US Post Offices
Cedar Bluff…........………………………………………256.779.6568 Centre……………......………………………………….256.927.5660 Gaylesville........................................................................ 256.422.3161 Leesburg........................................................................... 256.526.8076 Spring Garden.................................................................. 256.447.7227
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NEWCOMER INFORMATION
(Continued from page 70)
IMPORTANT CONTACT NUMBERS
If you are new to Cherokee County, the following information will be helpful. For additional information, please call the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce at 256-927-8455.
Municipal Government
Cedar Bluff Town Hall................................256.779.6121 Centre City Hall .........................................256.927.5222 Gaylesville Town Hall..................................256.422.3568 Leesburg Town Hall ....................................256.526.8890 Sand Rock Town Hall .................................256.523.5898
Health Services
Floyd Cherokee Medical Center..................256.927.5531 Health Department.....................................256.927.3132 CED Mental Health Center........................256.927.3601 Department of Human Resources ...............256.927.1440 Family Resource Center...............................256.927.7890
Newspaper
Radio
Utilities
Advance Disposal ........................................256.792.6004 Alabama Power Shoreline Management.......256.927.2597 Amerigas..............................................www.amerigas.com Blossman Gas..............................................256.927.1595 Cherokee Electric Coop ..............................256.927.5524 City of Centre Water & Sewer.....................256.927.3281 Cherokee County Water Authority..............256.927.8348 DC Natural Gas..........................................256.927.5925 Northeast Alabama Water............................256.845.6186 TDS Telephone...........................................877.837.8372 Town of Cedar Bluff Utility Board ..............256.779.6359 Weiss Internet .............................................256.706.4121
SCHOOLS
CEDAR BLUFF Grades: K-12 · Students: 600+ 3655 Old Highway 9 · Cedar Bluff, AL 35959 256.927.1750
CAREER & TECHNOLOGY CENTER
Grades: 8-12 · Students: 600+ 600 Bay Springs Road · Centre, AL 35960 256.927.5351
CENTRE ELEMENTARY
Grades: K-4 Students: 600+ 725 East Main Street · Centre, AL 35960 256.927.3302
CENTRE MIDDLE
Grades: 5-8 · Students: 500+ 1920 East Main Street · Centre, AL 35960 256.927.5656
CHEROKEE COUNTY HIGH
Grades: 9-12 · Students: 450+ 910 Warrior Drive · Centre, AL 35960 256.927.3625
GAYLESVILLE
Grades: K-12 · Students: 400+ 760 Trojan Way · Gaylesville, AL 35973 256.927.1738
SAND ROCK
Grades: K-12 · Students: 950+ 1950 Sand Rock Avenue · Sand Rock, AL 35983 256.927.1735
SPRING GARDEN
Grades: K-12 · Students: 600+ 2430 County Road 29 · Spring Garden, AL 36275 256.447. 7045
Cherokee County Schools Board Central Office 130 East Main Street Centre, AL 35960 256.927.3362
THE HISTORY OF Weiss Dam
In 1845, the USM Coosa became the first steamboat on the Coosa River. Two years later, a survey was budgeted to discern if the river was navigable for steamboat traffic. In the 1890s, the Coosa Alabama Improvement Association requested the federal government to open the Coosa for navigation from Mobile to Gadsden.
Alabama Power was incorporated in 1906, and in 1913 hired Fernand C. Weiss. With the Great Depression beginning to ebb, President Roosevelt’s “New Deal” funded the Tennessee Valley Authority to determine navigation, flood control, and economic development. Almost two decades would pass before Alabama Power was permitted to construct dams along the upper Coosa River.
It was in 1958 that F.C. Weiss would step down as chief engineer of the building of the dam in Leesburg, but to entice him to continue, Alabama Power names the lake after him. In April of that year, the $30 million dam began with a celebration, going only $5 million over budget. Weiss died in 1959. The dam officially began generating power on June 5, 1961.
Alabama Power Cherokee County Health and Rehabilitation Center Cherokee County Industrial Development Association Chesnut Bay Resort and RV Resort Gadsden State Community College LakeWeissAlabama.com Real Estate Services, Cathy Griffeth
With special thanks and sincere appreciation, we recognize the members of our Chairman’s Circle.
PLATINUM
Bobby Ledbetter, Twin City Used Car Sales Cherokee County Commission Cherokee County IDA DC Gas District
GOLD
Cherokee Electric Co-op City of Centre Floyd Cherokee Medical Center Noble Bank & Trust Regions Bank Southern Bank Company Weiss Lake Shoreline Management
SILVER
Advertising Dynamics, Inc. Farmers & Merchants Bank First Southern State Bank Gadsden State Community College Peoples Bank of Alabama Town of Cedar Bluff Town of Leesburg Tractor Supply Company
BRONZE
Dekalb Foot Clinic Model Tees State Farm Insurance Town of Gaylesville Town of Sand Rock
ADVERTISERS
AL Mountain Lake Tourist Assoc. Alabama Teacher’s Credit Union Bartley Realty, L.L.C. Bay Springs Country Inn & Marina Beth Baker State Farm Cathy Griffeth, Realtor Cherokee County Commission Cherokee County Park Board Cherokee County Sheriff Cherokee Electric Co-Op Chesnut Bay Resort and RV Resort City of Centre DC Gas Decks and Docks Easy Street Restaurant & Bar Farmers & Merchants Bank Floyd Cherokee Medical Center Gadsden State Community College LakeWeissAlabama.com Laura St. Clair, Realtor Northeast Orthopedics Orbix Hot Glass Peoples Bank of Alabama Perry Medical Clinic, P.C. Regions Bank Theatre Centre Three River Realty Town of Cedar Bluff Town of Leesburg Twin City Used Car Sales WeissLakeAlabama.com Realty Weiss Lake Realty Weiss Internet WLIA
Remarkable CHEROKEECOUNTY
CEDAR BLUFF | CENTRE | GAYLESVILLE | LEESBURG | SAND ROCK
Stay.
See.
Enjoy.
