LakeLife Creators
Carol Pappas
Carol Pappas is editor and publisher of Discover St. Clair Magazine. A retired newspaper executive, she served as editor and publisher of several newspapers and magazines during. She won dozens of writing awards and was named Distinguished Alabama Community Journalist at Auburn University. She serves as president/CEO of Partners by Design.
Graham Hadley
Graham Hadley is the managing editor and designer for Discover The Essence of St. Clair Magazine and also manages the magazine website. Along with Carol Pappas, he left The Daily Home as managing editor to become chief operating officer and vice president of the Creative Division of Partners by Design multimedia company.
Roxann Edsall
Roxann Edsall is a freelance writer and former managing editor of Convene Magazine, a convention industry publication. She has a degree in (broadcast) journalism from the University of Southern Mississippi, worked as a television news reporter in Biloxi and as a reporter and assignments editor in Birmingham.
Paul
South
Paul South, a native of Fairfield, is an Auburn graduate with a degree in journalism and a double minor in history. He also has a Juris Doctorate degree from the Birmingham School of Law. Although sports writing was always his first love, he had a versatile career as reporter, columnist and first full-time sports information director at Samford University.
David Smith
David Smith aka BamaDave, is originally from Birmingham. He and his wife, Renee, live on Logan Martin Lake. He is a freelance photographer, videographer and professional drone pilot. He has worked for ESPN’s College GameDay Show as a cameraman and for the last 4 years as the drone pilot. He has won 12 Emmys and was ESPN’s first drone pilot.
Scottie Vickery
Scottie Vickery is a writer with a degree in journalism from the University of Alabama and was a reporter for The Birmingham News Her first assignment was covering St. Clair and Blount counties. She has more than 30 years of writing and editing experience and her work has appeared in a variety of publications. She also has worked in the nonprofit industry.
About THE Cover
A familiar sight on Logan Martin when skies are clear and the water’s up is Donnie Todd touching down on the water in his aquaplane. A couple of kayakers paddle over for a chat near School Bus Island. It won’t be long now. Spring is up ahead.
Photo by David Smith
Editor’s Notes
Coming together for each other
People around these parts tend to think of the lake as one big family, sharing a common bond. But on Dec. 30, that bond strengthened well beyond their love of water. As a tornado ripped through Coosa Island and other parts of the southern tip of Logan Martin, neighbors rushed out of their homes into the awaiting needs left in the storm’s wake.
Because it is a peninsula, downed trees, damaged roofs and homes blocked the roads and trapped the community until help could arrive. An army of neighbors, friends and first responders appeared within moments, chainsaws whirring and tarps quickly stretching across gaps where roofs once offered shelter.
Strangers joined neighbors with a singular focus – clearing the debris to help return the island to a sense of functionality as best they could.
That’s the kind of spirit we see up and down our lakes. It is more than water that draws us together, although that certainly was the starting point.
In the polarizing times in which we live, it was an inspiring story of people coming together with outstretched hands to offer help to those who needed it most. Simply put, they were Good Samaritans just doing their job.
Their story is featured in this issue of LakeLife 24/7 Magazine along with the people, places and events that make our lakes special places indeed.
Take a ride with pro angler Zeke Gossett for tips, tricks and trends in March and April on Logan Martin and Neely Henry to make the most of your fishing adventures.
Discover what’s in store on the banks of Neely Henry in Gadsden as officials enter the planning stages of a major development – Coosa Harbor.
Get ready for Logan Martin’s biggest event of the year –LakeFest. The Southeast’s largest in-water boat show and festival heads to Lakeside Park May 9-11.
In the case of this national event, where there’s smoke, there’s plenty of good food cooking. Smoke on the Falls is
LakeLife 24/7
Carol Pappas • Editor and Publisher
Graham Hadley • Managing Editor and Designer
Dale Halpin • Advertising
back for its 16th year April 11-12 at Noccalula Falls, a contest featuring pitmasters from all over the country. Kids man the grills, too, in this family-friendly event.
Head over to Talladega Superspeedway in March and see what’s cooking. It’s time for the Wild Game Cook-off from the Alabama Wildlife Federation. Sample the culinary concoctions featuring the state’s wild game and fish March 15.
And, of course, there’s plenty more in this issue of the magazine. Turn the page and discover it all with us!
Carol Pappas Editor and Publisher
LOGAN MARTIN and NEELY HENRY
Large trees bring down power lines during
Coosa Island tornado
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Lake people come together after December tornadoes
Story by Roxann Edsall
Submitted Photos
Melinda Splawn got the call at about 7:00 in the morning on Sunday, Dec. 29. She needed to get to Lee Park in Cropwell right away to check on massive storm damage there. As owner and manager of the park off Coosa Island Road on which 14 mobile homes sit, Splawn immediately began calling to check on residents.
One of her first calls was to her friend, Matt Kronen, owner of Coosa Island Marina, who lives very near the park and knows most of the residents there. He had already been out checking on residents and property, and he told her to be prepared. “He told me it looks like a war zone. And it did. When I got there, I saw trees down everywhere on homes, porches and across the road.”
The storm, later evaluated by the National Weather Service as an EF-0 with peak winds of 85 miles per hour, was part of a weekend storm system that produced 18 tornadoes in four states. The Coosa Island tornado was one of two in St. Clair County. The second was an EF-1, which damaged property on Roberts Mill Pond Road.
The tornado spent just three minutes on the ground beginning at 12:25 a.m. In those three minutes, sections of the landscape of a two and one quarter mile stretch of land in Cropwell were completely changed. Thankfully, there were no injuries in either of the St. Clair County tornadoes. There were, instead, many stories of close calls, of neighbors helping neighbors, and of neighbors and strangers becoming heroes to those in need.
Kronen was one of those humble heroes who did what needed to be done to help those around him. He recounts having been in bed for 30 minutes, when he suddenly realized he’d left his Christmas inflatables up. He ran to the door and couldn’t open it. “The wind and pressure had it suctioned closed,” he explains.
“So, I ran to the sunroom. There was so much rain blowing sideways, you couldn’t see across the lake. Then, as quick as it
The Buzbees’ porch roof flew over the house
88-foot houseboat and pier broke loose in tornado
came, it was gone.”
Kronen headed outside and joined neighbors to survey the area. They discovered they were trapped on the island by debris and trees covering the causeway, so he and other neighbors loaded up chainsaws and started to work clearing a path.
With power lines completely tangled around trees, they couldn’t get far before having to stop and wait for Coosa Valley Electric Cooperative to turn the power off.
Taking his golf cart and carefully steering clear of power lines, Kronen made his way around the neighborhood and toward the causeway to check on friends. His concern was heightened at the sight of one trailer all but crushed under the weight of a downed tree. The home belonged to Tom and Candi Childers, who had told him they’d be at their Lee Park home over the weekend. The Childers are seasonal residents in the park.
When Kronen saw the giant oak tree lying on the Childers’ crushed residence, he was quick to call them and was relieved to hear they had not come due to the weather. The tree, now resting on their bed, made it difficult to get in to see what was left of their trailer. Before they could come to assess the damage and protect what was left of their belongings from the continuing rain, Kronen collected some of their photos
The Buzbee family had recently completed a full renovation
Logan Martin and Neely Henry
and items of sentimental value.
Kronen later brought his skid steer from the marina to help move larger debris out of the way throughout the park. Doing for others, Kronen explains, is just what lake people do. “We come together when something like this happens.” Splawn agrees, adding, “You don’t feel like you’re in it by yourself.”
Those sentiments are echoed time and time again by those who described their experiences during the storm, including by Mark “Nacho” Hughes.
“It’s amazing how eight seconds can change your life,” says the corporate pilot who lives in Lee Park. “It sounded like a million hot air balloons released their air at the same time. The walls of the trailer were pulsating. My wife, Connie, asked if this was the night we die. I said, ‘no, ma’am.’”
In just moments, the tornado was over, and Hughes went outside to check on things. His home had lost much of the underpinning and had roof damage, along with minor damage to his boat house. He immediately walked across the street to check on a neighbor. “We started walking
Downed trees and debris cover trailers at Lee Park
Crews begin cleanup after December 29 Cropwell tornado
together and checking on damage,” says Hughes. “We went place to place checking on people who might be here.”
What they saw was shocking. “There were lots of trees down and metal and debris on the road,” Hughes recounts. “We didn’t know what to do, so we started calling people to let them know what was going on.”
A few minutes later, first responders started showing up, and we all started removing metal and debris off the road. We started cutting trees about 3:30 in the morning so we could get cars through here.”
Hughes punctuates his story with extra gratitude for the first responders that morning and for the response by the St. Clair County road maintenance and debris removal teams.
“There has been such a spirit of cooperation in all of this,” adds Hughes. “There were people you knew, people you didn’t know. They were up here picking things up, helping in the cold and wind. People brought drinks and food. We don’t even know them all, but they wanted to be a part of the healing. It’s amazing how some people’s big hearts make the day go better.”
It was a bad night for Don Urso, who awoke in the middle of the storm adrift on his 88-foot houseboat. “I was traveling sideways freely, going about 30 miles per hour. It was raining so hard I couldn’t see anything,” Urso recalls. “When I finally stopped, after about 20 minutes, I was parked between two piers against the shoreline.” It was a tricky ride for Urso, who was not able to maneuver himself well, having had a hip replacement surgery just two weeks earlier.
“When I stopped, I
looked out the side window and I saw a house,” recalls Urso. “The tornado apparently had me spinning around out there. I thought I would have been in Riverside with as long and as fast as I’d been going.” The houseboat had, in fact, only traveled 600 yards across the water from its mooring on Coosa Island. It came to a stop against the seawall of the home of Scott and Lori Knepper.
Neighbors survey damage following tornado in Cropwell
The Kneppers, who were awakened from their sleep by the heavy winds and trees falling, discovered that water was coming into their house at the back door. Scott went upstairs to find a hole in the ceiling and realized that limbs from a tree had penetrated the roof. He and his son, Cam, grabbed flashlights to check on the pier. “That’s when I saw a very large white boat that was lodged against our pier and seawall,” said Scott. “Then I saw a flicker of light onboard and realized there was a person on the boat.
“We walked down there with another neighbor and talked to him and found out he was okay,” Scott continued. “We checked the boat, and it was not sinking. We asked if we could help him, but he was already on the phone calling for a friend to come get him.”
One friend, Keith Clemmons, came by pontoon boat and another, Kronen, came by land, but because of the wind and rain
Debris and tree damage from Cropwell tornado
they decided to secure it there and retrieve it later in the day.
Back on Coosa Island, David and Angela Buzbee were assessing the damage their home had sustained. David, Angela and their daughter, Courtney, had been watching the weather on television. When it looked like the storm threat was diminished, Angela went to bed. Just a few minutes later, David noticed the wind had picked up and the doors started rattling.
“I flipped the blinds open and noticed how strong the wind was and how the rain was swirling,” said David. “Pretty much immediately, the wind got really strong. The cedar and beams that make up the roof to the porch came in toward the house. We got away from the windows and went to the bedroom to get my wife.”
That’s when they heard a loud crash. Later they found out that crash was a result of half their roof on the porch coming off and landing on the other side of the house. The neighbor next door met them outside to check on them.
The Buzbees, who had completely renovated the house just 2 and a half years ago, say they will rebuild. “This is our forever home,” says Angela, who serves as president of the Coosa Island Homeowners Association. “It’s a really close group of people on the island and in the neighborhood.”
Angela’s neighbor two doors down agrees wholeheartedly. Rebel Negley is so thankful for the people who reached out to
help her and her husband following the storm.
St. Clair County Sheriff’s Deputy Lionel Calendar is one of her heroes. Knowing her husband had recently had surgery, Calendar sent Negley a message asking if they needed help and offering to get her anything she needed.
As it turned out, what they needed was power for their refrigerator and for the breathing machine. Calendar contacted his brother, Stevie Bentley, who came over and helped Negley put together their generator.
“Chief Paul Leger with New London Volunteer Fire Department was awesome, too. I can say that, like most folks, we don’t agree on everything,” Negley said. “But when something happens to one of us, we are all here to help each other.”
Kronen, Calendar, Leger, Hughes, Clemmons, the Kneppers – neighbors and friends who were all willing to help shoulder some of the weight of the loss created in the early hours of Dec. 29.
Hughes’ summary of the storm and its aftermath resonates among those in the lakeside community. “It’s just the people you don’t know who come in to lend a hand that gets you. These people didn’t have to spend their money, bring their chainsaws, bring food. They could be home with their families, but instead, they’re down here helping our families try to get back some part of normalcy.” l
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
MISSING: Coosa Island Marina Sign
The last time Coosa Island residents saw the Coosa Island Marina sign was 3 p.m. on Dec. 29. Coosa Valley Electric had Coosa Island Road closed while they worked on restoring power to the neighborhood following the tornado.
Residents remembered seeing the sign, damaged and loose from its pole, lying on the ground. “It’s an important piece of our history,” says marina owner Matt Kronen. “It was here when my family bought the marina in 1983.”
Kronen hopes that if anyone picked it up, thinking it was trash, they would get in touch with him and return it. He says they will get a new sign but would like to have the old sign to display as part of the history of the area.
The old sign on the ground after the storms
Let’s Get Season Ready!
Coosa Harbor a new chapter toward a reimagined Gadsden
Story by Paul South
Submitted Photos
A few years ago, when Kent Back ran for this Coosa River town’s governing council, his message was clear: “I told people that whoever wins this election will get the opportunity to reimagine Gadsden.”
Since taking office, Mayor Craig Ford, his administration and the city council – with Back as its chairman – have worked to reimagine the city. Improvements to Noccalula Falls, growth in the downtown business district and economic development on the Coosa have been big news.
Now, Guntersville developer Patrick Lawler is opening a new chapter on the blossoming waterfront – Coosa Harbor.
The mixed-use development, with an estimated value “north of $20 million” will include 20 condominiums, selling for $500,000 each, as well as retail shops and restaurants, another step toward recasting Gadsden as a destination city.
While the development in its final form may be larger, current plans have the development at 34,000 square feet, said Patrick Lawler, the CEO of P Lawler, LLC.
City officials reached out to Lawler and after a series of meetings with Ford and Director of Economic Development John Moore, the project got the green light.
Gadsden’s biggest attraction for Lawler? Not surprisingly, the Coosa River.
“They had water,” Lawler said. “I don’t build anything that’s not on the water.”
Architectural rendering of the Coosa Harbor sign
Architectural rendering of aerial view of the complex
Lawler has one waterfront project up and running in his hometown of Guntersville – City Harbor. The $30 million development on Lake Guntersville has proven wildly popular.
In April 2024, the city of Decatur approved plans for a 75,000 square foot development at Ingalls Harbor.
Lawler and Gadsden officials hope for a repeat performance of Guntersville’s success when Coosa Harbor comes online in a few years. Lawler is currently in discussions with Alabama Power officials regarding electrical infrastructure for the project.
Lawler was attracted to Gadsden after an initial meeting with Ford. “He gave me their vision for the city and what they have in the works right now, I think the future for Gadsden is really going to upturn in a positive direction.”
Lawler has been approached by other cities, but turned them down. Gadsden was different.
“I liked the site, and the numbers made sense as far as what other restaurants were doing down there, gross (receipt) wise. It just checked all the boxes.”
Logan Martin and Neely Henry
Covered tables, walkways and green space are part of the plans
He added, “I’m impressed with their vision for the whole waterfront area. I think we’re going to be the centerpiece of that and a catalyst for development of the whole waterfront area.”
Restaurant tenants confirmed for Coosa Harbor are Big Mike’s Steakhouse, Lost Pizza, Kilwin’s Ice Cream and Levi’s on the Lake, a live music venue.
Aesthetically, the architectural style and finishes are going to be similar to the Guntersville project.
“Being on the water, it will be a high energy development,” Lawler said. “There will be the right lighting, video boards and outdoor live music. There’s a reason cities call us. We have a proven product.”
Back agreed. He’s visited City Harbor in Guntersville “three or four times. It’s been no secret as far as the phenomenal success that Patrick has had in Guntersville with his project on the lake up there,” Back said. “I think half of Gadsden has been to City Harbor and really enjoyed it.”
He had high praise for the finished product. “(City Harbor) is very clean. The architecture and everything is just really cool.”
For decades, Gadsden has wanted to take advantage of its most visible natural resource that flows through the heart of the city. But until now, that’s never really happened with the exception of riverwalks on both sides of the river.
With projects like Coosa Harbor, that’s
Neely Henry
The developers have already proven what can be done with a similar project, City Harbor, in Guntersville
Logan Martin and Neely Henry • March & April
The area has already seen success with Coosa and Southside Landings
changing. “After seeing what was going on in Guntersville, I think it was just, ‘How can we get that guy to come to Gadsden and do the same thing?’ I think he’s caught the vision of the mayor and the Council on how to grow Gadsden and be progressive and moving forward,” Back said.
The projects fits into plans to stretch the city’s entertainment district past Rainbow Drive (U.S. Highway 411) to the river.
“I think Patrick’s vision of how (Coosa Harbor) is laid out and just the quality of the craftsmanship and the workmanship … and the restaurants and the businesses there will give Gadsden something that we never had before on the river. It’ll bring new restaurants and retail that we’ve not had.”
The city is giving Lawler the site, as well as $1.5 million of in-kind services for site preparation.
To critics of that aspect of Coosa Harbor, Back said, “The reality of it is, every project that comes to any city receives those kinds of legal inducements. It’s part of how it works. The reality is you have to make that investment to get that development.”
Based on conservative estimates, the project will mean a boost to city revenues of $700,000 to $800,000 in sales taxes, along with new jobs, Back said.
“That’s a real win for the city,” Back said.
For Lawler, who has been a developer since his early 20s, Coosa Harbor is good news for Gadsden and its citizens, as well as for surrounding areas.
“It’ll be very positive for the community,” he said. “It will be enjoyed by all. It’ll be 100 percent positive for the city and for future development also. I’m excited about being in Gadsden. I’m excited about the forward thinking that Mayor Ford and the Council have. I have to give the mayor a lot of credit. He’s the one who sold me on it.”
It’s another chapter in the transformation in Gadsden. The city is no longer a tire and steel town.
Just as in his campaign, Back has another clear message about Gadsden, evidenced by projects like Coosa Harbor.
“This is our time.” l
Everybody gets in on the cooking action
Logan Martin and Neely Henry • March &
Iconic cooking competition returns to Noccalula Falls
Story by Scottie Vickery
Submitted Photos
The first time Tony Skiroock heard his name announced as Grand Champion of a national barbecue competition, the moment was as sweet as some of the sauces the judges undoubtedly licked from their fingers.
The fact that it happened in Gadsden at the annual Smoke on the Falls BBQ Competition, which will host its 16th contest April 11-12, made it an experience to savor even more. That’s because Skiroock’s mother, Frances Owens, grew up in Gadsden, and the grill master, who lives in Illinois, visited her hometown every summer as a child.
It’s where an aunt first introduced him to pit barbecue at the tender age of 6, and he was hooked after his first bite. Skiroock said he looked at his aunt and immediately asked her if he could move.
Lake life and barbecue is a perfect combination, and if you’re looking to see how some award-winning pitmasters do
it, you won’t want to miss Smoke on the Falls, held at the Noccalula Falls Park Campground, this year.
Up to 72 teams from all over the country will compete in the backyard and professional divisions, and the event will also feature a Kidz-Q competition. On Saturday, there will be a variety of vendors offering unique goods and treats, and the Tim Roberts Band will provide live music starting at 2:30 p.m. before the 4:30 p.m. awards ceremony.
“It’s a lot of fun. We’re pretty proud of Smoke on the Falls,” said Janet Tarrance, special events director for the City of Gadsden. Known as the Barbecue Queen, Tarrance brought the competition to Gadsden and has spearheaded the event ever since.
Featured on the Food Network, the competition is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society, the world’s largest organization of barbecue and grilling enthusiasts. KCBS, which has some 16,000 members worldwide, sanctions more than 400 barbecue competitions.
Three years ago, Smoke on the Falls added the Kidz-Q contest, allowing young chefs in two age groups (5-9 and
10-15) to show off their skills, with a little help from their parents. This year, the younger crew will cook hamburgers while the older kids will strive to grill the perfect pork tenderloin.
In the adult competition, participants in the professional division must cook four meats: ribs, chicken, brisket and butts. The backyard competitors will focus on chicken and ribs. There’s also a sides competition for interested professional and backyard teams, who can offer up their best grilled pizza and desserts.
While there’s plenty of fun to be had and lots of vendors offering mouth-watering wares, don’t go to the event expecting to eat your fill of everything on the grills and in the smokers.
“Some do give out samples, but their ultimate goal is to chase the points and win the prize,” Tarrance said.
Skiroock, whose team We Will Rock ‘Que, was named the Grand Champion at the event the past two years. He has been competing since 2016, he said, noting, “I’ve only started figuring it out.”
He started out watching BBQ Pitmasters and “tried to mimic what I saw,” before taking some classes. After tweaking ingredients, trying out different grills and smokers, and experimenting with cooking times and temperatures, “I finally started hearing my name called,” he said. “It’s a serious hobby.”
It’s so serious, in fact, that KSBS hosts full-day classes before judges, who are from all over the country, can be certified, said Tarrance. Although they’re not paid, there are other benefits to the job.
“A judge can gain 5 to 10 pounds in a single barbecue competition,” she said.
The Noccalula event has earned high marks from the KSBS, which selected Gadsden to be the host city for the KCBS World Invitational Championship, its largest
Tony Skiroock and son Daniel with the winnings
competition, in 2022.
The Gadsden competition was chosen after being one of five competitions that Michael Symon, chef and restauranteur, selected to be featured on his Food Network show, BBQ USA.
The judges and competitors may take things seriously, but there’s lots of fun to be had. That’s evident in some of the team names that have competed in Smoke on the Falls. There’s Smoke Me Silly, Cool Hand Cue, Rooters-nTooters and Kick ‘Em in the Butt BBQ, to name a few.
In addition to Wine Me, Dine Me, Swine Me, other competitors have included the Dixie Pigs & Chicks, BarB-Queterie, Big Fluffy, and Swinging Pig Meat.
Skiroock said he’s enjoyed being a part of the competition world and meeting the other barbecue enthusiasts. “They call it the barbecue family,” he said. “We’re watching each other on Facebook, and we’re all happy for each other when they win.”
To a point, anyway, “It’s just like an Alabama/Auburn game,” Tarrance said. “These people come to win.” l
Martin
Neely Henry
Recipes from Tony Skiroock
Pork Ribs
Ingredients:
• Pork ribs (St. Louis trimmed or Baby Backs)
• Salt, pepper, and garlic barbecue rub
• All-purpose barbecue rub for pork
• Light brown sugar or turbinado sugar
• Honey
• Unsalted butter or squeeze “butter”
• Pepper sauce
• Apple juice
• Kansas City style barbecue sauce
Directions:
To prepare the ribs, trim off any excessive fat on the meat side of the ribs. If the membrane is still on the bone side of the ribs, remove it by slipping a butter knife under the membrane, lift it away high enough to slip your fingers under and pull the membrane off. It can also be scored with a sharp knife and left in place. Sprinkle a basic salt, pepper and garlic rub on both sides of the ribs, then sprinkle both sides with your favorite all-purpose barbecue rub. Press the rubs into the meat, then place in the refrigerator for an hour or until the rubs look damp having absorbed some of the moisture from the meat.
Prepare your grill or smoker to run at 275-300° using indirect heat. Place the ribs, meat side up, on the grill and cook for one hour. Spritz with apple juice every 20 minutes.
After an hour, roll the ribs meat side down and cook for another hour, at which time the rub should have set into a nice “bark” that doesn’t smear with your finger. Prepare a wrap with two layers of aluminum foil, long enough to cover the rib length plus a few inches on each end. Spread onto the foil ¼ cup of sugar, a drizzle of honey, a stick of butter cut into five planks (or a hearty
drizzle of squeeze butter), a line of pepper sauce, a shake of barbecue rub and ¼ cup of apple juice. Place the ribs on the foil, meat side down, and fold the foil tightly around the slab.
Return the rib packet to the smoker.
After about an hour, the rib packet should start to feel floppy when lifted. You can open it up and check for doneness. The bone tips should be exposed by about a half inch, and a toothpick should slide easily into the meat. The slab should be floppy but not fall apart, unless you want them fall-off-the-bone tender, which might need about 90 minutes wrapped.
Gently heat the sauce in a saucepan, stirring regularly. Add a few squeezes of honey and a splash of apple juice to thin the sauce. Carefully open the rib packet and place the ribs on a cutting board. Brush the top and bottom with sauce, add a final shake of barbecue rub and return the ribs to the smoker for ten minutes to set the sauce.
BBQ Chicken
Ingredients:
• Chicken thighs, bone in and skin on
• Chicken wings
• All-purpose barbecue rub
• Unsalted butter
• Kansas City style barbecue sauce
• Apple juice
• Honey
Directions:
To prepare the thighs, trim off any dangling skin or meat. With the wings, cut off the wing tip and, if desired, separate the flat from the drumette. Sprinkle all sides of the chicken with your favorite BBQ rub.
Prepare your grill or smoker to run at 300° using indirect heat. Place the chicken on the grate. After about an hour, the skin should be slightly browned and the meat firm.
Typically, at this point, the internal temperature of the chicken will be around 145°. Prepare enough half-size foil pans large enough to contain chicken pieces in a single layer. Place a stick of butter, cut into planks, in the bottom of each pan. Place the chicken, in a single layer, in the pan and cover tightly with aluminum foil. The butter and heat creates a steam bath that renders the fat in the skin, yielding bite-through skin.
Return to the cooker for an hour, rotating the pan after 30 minutes.
Gently heat the sauce in a saucepan, stirring regularly. Add a few squeezes of honey and a splash of apple juice to thin the sauce. After an hour, the chicken’s internal temperature should be around 200-208°, super tender and juicy. Dunk each piece in the sauce and return to the smoker for about 10 minutes to set the sauce.
Thank You for the opportunity
• Landscape Design & Installation • Hardscape Design & Installation (Kitchens, Fireplace & Fire Pits, Retaining & Sea Walls, Driveways, Patios, WalkWays and More)
A SUCCESS STORY 15 YEARS AND COUNTING
Story
by Carol Pappas
Submitted Photos
Eric Housh stepped away from his work desk for a few minutes, taking a short break from his regular consulting job in marketing and sales technology solutions to talk about his ‘other job.’
That alternate work has become a passion of his that has evolved over the years, much like the event itself. He’s been heading up organizing and promoting Logan Martin LakeFest, billed as the South’s largest in-water boat show, since it launched 15 years ago. But as Housh will quickly tell you, it has grown into so much more.
While the focus is on a show for boats, personal watercrafts and even cars and trucks, this outdoor
festival at Pell City Lakeside Park boasts something for everybody. It features dozens of lake lifestyle vendors, nonstop entertainment, food trucks, kids’ attractions, a spectacular fireworks show and a host of other events, drawing upwards of 40,000 people each year.
It began as a vision of the late Jerry Woods of Woods Surfside Marina; Fred Casey, former owner of Tradesman Docks; Joe Paul Abbott, developer of Horizons, and Lee Holmes, owner of Sylacauga Marine. They wanted to create an event that would draw people to Logan Martin, not only to browse their boats but to discover how special the lake and lake life really are.
Come May 9-11, LakeFest will celebrate its 15th birthday in a grand way. “We say every year that we are beyond blessed with a community that supports us so well,” Housh said. “All the support makes it easier to do
Lakeside Park is the perfect location for the boat show
Logan Martin and Neely Henry •
The latest in pontoon boats
Vendors have something for everyone
this year in and year out.”
Each year seems to outdo the year that came before it, and the burgeoning crowds attending simply underscore that Housh and company continue to fine tune a winning formula.
This year’s fireworks show will be bigger this year, highlighting special events on Friday night. Veterans from Col. Robert L. Howard State Veterans Home are guests of honor for dinner and the fireworks show, escorted into the festival in a special ceremony saluting them. A record number of veterans attended in 2024.
Veterans, Housh said, always had a special place in Woods’ heart. His brother was killed in Vietnam, and veterans have been a focal point since the beginning of LakeFest.
This year’s version will bring a ‘first’ for LakeFest –an actual wedding will take place on Saturday. A couple had called and asked if it was possible to exchange their vows at LakeFest, and “we thought it was a crazy cool idea. All in attendance at LakeFest will be guests at the wedding,” Housh said. “We’ll have other fun stuff Saturday night. It will be a party atmosphere, something fun I think everybody will enjoy.”
Eric Housh poses with one of the prizes in the giveaway – a kayak
Entertainment for the weekend will be centerstage and represent just about every genre possible. They are even looking to add bluegrass this year to its lineup of country, rock, folk and more. Prizes and giveaways will be awarded throughout the weekend.
Many hands are responsible for this unfolding success story. Justin Hogeland partners with Housh to oversee and plan this huge outdoor festival. Judy Carr and Kasey Flurry keep logistics running smoothly. And an army of volunteers –from golf cart shuttle drivers to traffic directors to helping hands wherever needed –report for duty early and stay late, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of the crowds that attend.
The sponsors make the
The nights are full of music, fireworks and fun
LakeFest Weekend
• Pell City Lakeside Park
• Friday, May 9: 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Saturday, May 10: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
• Sunday, May 11: 12 Noon – 5 p.m.
Admission is free
whole event possible, and the vendors and entertainment help give it its wide-ranging appeal. The Splash Pad is sponsored free for kids Friday and Saturday, and for mothers, it’s Mimosas for Moms – free Mimosas and a rose on Sunday, honoring them on Mother’s Day.
LakeFest returns the favor, giving back to the community each year through its profits earmarked for charities as well as upgrades for Lakeside Park. The large Jerry Woods Memorial Pavilion, new docks and other improvements are courtesy of funding from LakeFest’s nonprofit, The Logan Martin Charity Foundation.
“We’re really proud of that. It’s been in our DNA to give back to the community,” Housh said, pointing to the early vision of Woods. True to that mission, LakeFest has generated more than $500,000 for over 30 different nonprofit organizations over the past 15 years. l
2 0 2 5
Join us as we partner with local dealers for our 15TH ANNUAL Car Sale Event. We will have a team onsite to assist with questions and financing. This event is happening at our main branch located on Hwy 280 in Sylacauga - but don’t forget we can also help with your auto re-financing needs at any of our five locations from April 1-30.
Trust us - you don’t want to miss this opportunity! Get pre-approved today by calling, visiting us online, or coming by one of our branches.
Wild Game Cook-off
Returns to Talladega Superspeedway
Story by Paul South
Submitted Photos
Talladega is known the world over as a place where racecar drivers put the pedal to the metal.
But on March 15, hunters and anglers will put the metal – pots and pans to be exact – and meat to the flame, all part of the Alabama Wildlife Federation’s regional cook-off at the Talladega Superspeedway.
The winner advances to the state finals.
Proceeds from entry fees and ticket sales, where hungry patrons can feast on some wild game delights crafted by teams of backyard chefs, go to benefit AWF’s many wildlife education and conservation efforts.
Think grilled quail, flounder stuffed with shrimp and crab and covered with cream sauce, or a grilled venison roll. If your mouth isn’t watering now, check your pulse.
The event marks the 19th AWF cook-off for
Talladega. But the genesis for the competition began in 1996, according to Tim Gothard, now in his 26th year as the federation’s executive director.
“AWF was talking about the fact that sometimes hunters and hunting can be put in the wrong light,” Gothard said. “What we know is that hunters and anglers properly utilize the fish and game that they harvest. It’s not a wasteful thing … We thought the cook-off would be a great way to show that. And it makes great and healthy table fare.”
Like the first day of hunting or fishing season, the cook-off would also be a social event, bringing AWF members together and spotlighting its conservation and education efforts. And it will generate funds to support those efforts, Gothard said.
Mobile hosted the first cook-off in 1996. Now, the Talladega event is one of 14 regional cookoffs culminating in the state championship later this year.
Regional winners will compete for a $1,000
Talladega Superspeedway has plenty of room for an event this size
grand prize and bragging rights as AWF Wild Game Cook-off State Champion for 2025.
Like the popularity of TV cooking shows, these AWF events have exploded in popularity. For example, at that first event in Mobile, five or six teams competed and 100 to 125 folks attended. Now the competitions have become a major event on the calendar. Folks want to be there. And, in every competition town, corporate sponsors are hooked.
“Coming up, at the Talladega cook-off, we will have over 1,000 people at that cookoff and probably 30 to 35 cook teams,” Gothard said. “It has grown absolutely dramatically over the years. Probably in the last 10 years, we have doubled the amount of people that come to those events, the revenue that’s generated to support our conservation projects … It’s just been amazing.”
As for the corporate backing, they provide the largest revenue stream.
“It’s a great opportunity,” Gothard said. “If you’re a sponsor, you’re going to get a bunch of tickets that you can use to reward employees, clients, potential clients and friends to come and enjoy the same great food and the same great atmosphere and camaraderie that we see.”
AWF employees will be on hand to talk about the organization’s work and mission. But make no mistake, food – dishes featuring venison, feral hog, quail, and other varieties of game and fish –is the focus.
And this isn’t just a bunch of guys cooking on the truck tailgate, Gothard said.
“They take great pride in what they prepare,” he said. “And I will guarantee you this: There are restaurant quality dishes that you’ll find at every cookoff that we do. And when you come to that state cook-off, and the teams come to compete for the state championship, every one of those dishes are restaurant quality.”
The secret sauce in the cook-offs’ success?
“The format that we do allows people to sample the food,” Gothard said. “We’re not providing them with a meal. But they have a wide selection of dishes that they can actually taste.”
While the boom in cooking shows and in turn, the growth in folks wanting to cook great food at home, have played a part in the cook-off success, there’s a dash of something else beyond great tasting food created from Alabama fish and game.
“More than anything else, we have a large membership across the state and it’s an opportunity for them to get together with likeminded people and really enjoy a night that’s really celebrating the hunting and angling outdoor pursuits that we are all involved with and we appreciate and enjoy,” Gothard said.
“ The social atmosphere, that camaraderie and that uniqueness are the things that in my mind have made the wild game cook-offs so popular and really fueled their growth over the last 10 years, in particular,” he said.
Statewide, more than 100,000 Alabama schoolchildren benefit from AWF’s efforts. And
Logan Martin and Neely Henry
that’s a small part of the story.
AWF has done five oyster restoration projects in Mobile Bay. It’s been able to add scientists to the AWF staff to work on issues like restoring fish and game habitats. The wild game cook-offs provide a portion of private sector funding for what AWF calls its “on the ground and on the water projects. All told, AWF is making a $1 million investment in these projects and more.”
The Alabama Outdoor Classroom Program gives kids the opportunity to learn math, science, social studies and language arts outdoors in a wildlife habitat and against a wildlife backdrop. AWF has four outdoor education specialists crisscrossing the state to serve in schools.
Close to home, the program worked with Munford Elementary.
“They’ve accomplished a tremendous amount,” Gothard said. “And our wildlife biologists have collaborated with private landowners in that entire (Coosa) region for 20 years helping them develop plans for managing their property so they can have quality wildlife habitat and populatons.
“When you have that, the impact spills out beyond the landowners’ property. It helps ensure that we have good wildlife habitat and populations all across the state.”
It’s part of a scientific, systematic approach to game management, Gothard said. And funds from the cook-offs fuel the effort.
The cookoff attracts more than just chefs, there are vendors galore
Martin and Neely Henry
2206 Martin St S Pell City, AL 35128-2356
Phone (205) 884-3470 (205) 473-9080
Fax (866) 666-8481
Proudly serving Alabama communities in Pell City, Ragland, Odenville, Branchville, Cropwell, Alpine and Vincent.
Alabama Farm Credit understands the unique aspects of Agricultural and rural real estate financing.
Talladega office: 65696 Al-77
Talladega, Al 35160 (256)362-0507
Brittany Smith 256-592-2072
Jim Tollison 256-362-0507
Karlee Tucker 256-589-8382
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When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries taking place today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures – benefitting not only our patients and families, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.
Youth Division champs
“(The cook-off) is a significant source of revenue to help us do conservation work in this state,” Gothard said. “It makes a big difference.”
The cookoffs reveal something about hunters and anglers, who may guard their favorite hunting and fishing spots like state secrets.
But they’ll brag about a recipe as they might a trophy buck or bass.
“They definitely enjoy sharing with other people how they prepare dishes and how good it tastes,” Gothard said. “That is something hunters and anglers love to do.”
Over the years, Gothard has sampled a slew of savory fish and game dishes. But one some 12 years ago at the Talladega cook-off hooked him.
“There was a team that won the Talladega cookoff with a bluegill fish taco,” Gothard recalled. “This
Best Overall winners
WANT TO GO?
The Alabama Wildlife Federation will host its Talladega regional cook-off on Saturday, March 15 at 4 p.m. at the Talladega Superspeedway.
Admission is $50 per couple. Admission is free for cook teams and youth under 15.
was before fish tacos were a thing. I grew up, you caught bluegill, you fried them whole and picked them with a fork. It tasted great, but it was work.”
The taco chefs took a fresh approach.
“They had de-boned all the meat, cooked it up and then flaked it. That was the meat in the taco,” Gothard said. “It absolutely blew me away.”
For Gothard, every team makes an impression.
“The thing that really impresses me and captures my attention is how (teams) take (fish and game) and turn it into a dish that I hadn’t really thought about.”
The cook-off isn’t only a celebration of conservation, Alabama’s hunting and fishing heritage or culinary creativity. The competition is about pride, with teams coming from as far away as Texas.
“Those cook teams are going to take a lot of pride in telling you what their dish is, how they made that dish,” Gothard. “And you’re going to see them light up when on the spot, someone tastes it and says, ‘Man, this is awesome.’
According to its website, the Alabama Wildlife Federation is “a dynamic, citizen-based conservation organization with over 25,000 members and supporters dedicated to creating and promoting a balance between use, management and protection of Alabama’s wildlife and related natural resources through education, community involvement, and boots-on-the-ground assistance.”
The organization’s focus is in three major areas: conservation education, resource stewardship and celebrating the state’s hunting and fishing heritage. Founded in 1935, AWF is celebrating its 90th anniversary. l
Editor’s Note: For more information on the AWF and the cookoff, visit AlabamaWildlife.org.
Take 5 Community Events
March through early May 2025
LakeLife 24/7 events compiled by Jackie Romine Walburn
Submit events to: cpappas@partnersmultimedia.com
MARCH
Who: Pell City Line Dancers
What: Dancing with Our Stars
When: Saturday, March 1, 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: Pell City CEPA, campus Pell City High School
Why: See the Pell City Dancers, directed by Doris Munkus, dance and fundraiser for the community. Tickets $30 online and $35 at the door.
Who: Bass Anglers
What: Alabama Bass Federation qualifying tournament at Neely Henry Lake
When: March 1 and March 8, safe daylight
Where: Coosa Landing, Gadsden
Why: Bass fishing competition. Details at www. albassfed.org
Who: Talladega’s Historic Ritz Theatre
What: Mardi Gras Gala
When: March 1, 6 p.m. to midnight
Where: Talladega SuperSpeedway International Motorsports Hall of Fame Dome
Why: Alabama’s largest Mardi Gras party north of Mobile. Tickets and info at www.ritztalladega.com or call 256-315-0000
Who: Down Syndrome Alabama
What: Honor Bash and 5K
When: March 1, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 5k at 7:30 a.m,. Bash at 11 a.m.
Where: Back Forty Beer Company, 200 North 6th Street, Gadsden
Why: Celebrate Worldwide Down Syndrome Day at local benefit run and party. $30 to run. www. runsignup.com,
Who: Reptiles!
What: Show Me Reptile and Exotics Show
When: March 1, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: The Venue at Coosa Landing, George Wallace Drive, Gadsden
Why: See reptiles and other exotic animals. Tickets $5 to $15.
Who: Imagination Place Children’s Museum
What: Sensory Friendly First Saturday
When: March 1, April 5, May 3, 8 to 10 a.m., through
September 6, 2025
Where: Imagine Place, 501 Broad Street, Gadsden
Why: Those with sensory sensitivities are invited to experience our spaces with dimmed lighting and limited sounds. Regular admission applies to the sensory friendly period: $8 per person for children and adults, free for children under 24 months, free for Hardin Center members, and $2 per person for families with EBT cards (up to 6 people)
Who: Heritage Hall Museum and Art Center
What: Helen Keller Art Show, featuring art from visually impaired and Helen Keller students
When: March 3-March 28
Where: Heritage Hall, 200 South Street East, Talladega
Why: A celebration of Alabama’s Helen Keller featuring exhibits and awards for visually impaired artists
Who: Leeds Arts Council
What: Masterpiece Mondays at Leeds Theatre and Arts Center
When: Mondays, March 3, 10, 17 and 24, 9 a.m. to noon. Open every Monday.
Business Directory
Logan Martin and Neely Henry
Where: Leeds Theatre and Arts Center, 8140 Parkway Drive, Leeds
Why: Open every Monday, exhibiting art of new and local artists. www.facebook/com/leeds.a.council
Who: Leeds Jane Culbreth Library
What: Time to Read Book Club
When: March 5 (every first Wednesday) from 10 to 11 a.m.
Where: Library at Parkway Drive
Why: All welcome, bring a snack to share
Who: Gadsden Museum of Art
What: Gadsden Museum of Art March exhibiting artist Terry Muirheid
When: Throughout March 2025, Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 515 Broad Street, Gadsden
Why: Visit GMA each month to see exhibits by important artists
Who: St. Clair Literary Council
What: Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee
When: Thursday, March 6, 7 p.m.
Where: CEPA Pell City
Why: Three-person teams compete, in costume, in the grown-up spelling bee. To register a team, complete registration form at CEPA website and email form to wisedomseekers@ymail.com. Checks payable to The Literacy Council, St. Clair Chapter.
Who: Leeds Knights of Columbus Council 5597
What: Knights of Columbus Charity Bingo Night
When: First and third Fridays, March 7 and 21, 5 to 8 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. and Bingo starts at 6 p.m. Food available for purchase
Where: Leeds Civic Center, 1000 Park Drive
Why: Play bingo for cash prizes while raising money for local charities. Call Don Tice at 205-542-0671 for information.
Who: Theatre of Gadsden
What: The Color Purple, the musical
When: Friday, March 7, to Sunday, March 9, 7 p.m.
Where: Historic Ritz Theatre, 310 North 27th Street, Gadsden
Why: Enjoy local production of musical based on Alice Walker’s novel. Tickets at https://www. purplepass.com/events/298924-the-color-purplefeb-28th-2025
Who: CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park
What: Clay Shoot
When: Saturday, March 8, 7 a.m. arrival and registration; 9 a.m. shoot begins
Where: CMP Park, Turner Mill Road, Talladega
Why: Four-person teams compete. Registration $450 per team; $110 for single ticket including meal and 2 drinks. Door prizes and trophies. Benefiting Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Who: New South Pro Wrestling
What: The Best in the South, for HOSS 2025
When: Friday and Saturday, March 7 and 8
Where: Spartan Arena, Gadsden Mall
Why: Get up close with two-day tickets up front, starting at $50
Who: Alabama Bass Federation
What: High School State Championship Tournament Series
When: March 8, 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Neely Henry Lake, Coosa Landing, Gadsden
Why: Qualifying tournament for state’s teen bass fishing championship
Who: Joggers and runners
What: 2nd Annual Rozzy Run 10K, 5K and fun run
When: March 8
Where: E.C. Wilson Park, Glencoe
Why: Run fun.
Who: Vendors and shoppers
What: Spring Vendor Market
When: March 7 and 8
Where: The Venue at Coosa Landing, Gadsden
Why: Shop the latest
Who: Downtown Talladega merchants
What: Second Saturday
When: Saturday, March 8, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Talladega Bottling Works
Why: Music and more each Second Saturday
Who: Kings of Swing
What: Free concert
When: March 11
Where: Marty G. Hardin Cultural Center, Gadsden
Why: Kings swinging
Who: Leeds Jane Culbreth Library
What: American Sign Language classes
When: Wednesday, March 12 and 26, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.; second and fourth Wednesdays of each month.
Where: Lees Jane Culbreth Library,
Why: Melissa Lee is teaching American Sign Language. To sign up, go to www.leedslibrary.info
Who: The Faith Riders
What: Thunder @ the Grove
When: March 13, every second Thursday at 6 p.m.
Where: Cedar Grove Baptist Church. 2001 Cedar Grove Road, Leeds.
Why: Join the Faith Riders every second Thursday for food and fellowship. No bikes required. Come as you are. More information at 205-699-8446
Who: CAST Alabama
What: A production of the play, Radium Girls
When: March 13-15, 7 p.m.; March 16, 2 p.m.
Where: Jacksonville State University McClellan Theatre, Anniston
Why: In 1926, radium was seen as miracle cure, and luminous watches were the latest craze – until the women who painted them began to fall ill. Radium Girls follows Grace Fryer as she fights for justice against the U.S. Radium Corporation. This fast-moving, ensemble drama examines America’s obsession with health, wealth, and the commercialization of science. See www. castalabama.org for more information.
Who: Downtown Gadsden
What: Shamrockin’ With My Gnomes, St. Patrick’s shopping day
When: March 14
Where: Downtown Gadsden
Why: Shop, dine and check out downtown merchants. Prizes
Who: Leeds Arts Council’s Musical Mondays
What: Mary Poppins Jr., next production of the Leeds Arts Council. Open to local children grades 1 to 12. Tuition $200 per child with $25 discount for addition student.
When: Meeting every Monday to March 10, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Production set for March 14-16 at Leeds Arts Council.
Where: Leeds Arts Council, 8140 Parkway Drive, Leeds
Why: Music performance, Contact broadwaybound38@yahoo.com. Registration and payment links at www.leedsartscouncil.org
Who: Little Miss pageant fans
What: Sweet Southern Sass 2025 pageants
When: March 12, Annual Easter Pageant
Where: The Venue at Coosa Landing, Gadsden. Why: Pageant season begins. Contact beckyfromal@bellsouth.net
What: Twice monthly Toastmaster Club meetings
When: Second and fourth Thursdays, March 13 and 27, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Downtown Civic Center, Broad Street, Gadsden
Why: Membership fee is $60 twice a year, including access to online manuals and modules. $20 new member fee. You may attend three meetings without membership.
Who: City of Oxford
What: Second Friday on Main
When: Friday, March 14, 4 to 8 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Oxford
Why: Explore all Historic Oxford offers in this monthly event. More at www.oxfordmainstreet.com
Who: Shoppers and Downtown Attalla
What: Attalla Sidewalk Sale
When: March 15
Where: Downtown Attalla
Why: Shop local
Who: Downtown Gadsden Inc.
What: St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl
When: March 15
Where: Downtown Gadsden
Why: Visit local bars and restaurants for fun and prizes
Main Street downtown Oxford
Who: Dads and daughters in primary and elementary school, and Leeds Area Chamber of Commerce
What: Daddy-Daughter Western Party
When: Saturday, March 15, 6 to 8 p.m.
Where: The Livery Event Center at the Historic Train Depot
Why: Line dancing, face painting, refreshments, balloon art and photo booth for selfies. Advance tickets $15 each for Daddy and Daughter and $10 for each additional girl. All tickets $20 at door. Visit https://LeedsAreaChamber.com or call 659-297-5644
Who: Anniston Museum of Natural History
What: 7th Annual Spring Garden Symposium and Symposium Plant Sale
When: Thursday, March 20, 9 a.m. to 3
Where: Longleaf Event Center at Anniston Museum of Natural History
Why: Titled Earth, Wind and Fire: A Concert of Issues Facing Today’s Gardeners in A Climate of Change, the symposium keynote speaker is author and horticulturist Brie Arthur
Who: Pell City Chamber
What: Third Thursdays in Downtown Pell City
When: Thursday, March 20, 11 a.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Pell City
Why: Look for specials, sales and fun.
Who: Leeds Chess Club
What: Monthly gathering for all ages and abilities
When: Fourth Saturday, March 22, April 26, 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Leeds Jane Culbreth Library
Why: Come to learn, brush up on chess skills, have fun
Who: Talladega Classic Car Club
What: Classic Car Cruise-In
When: Saturday, March 22 and April 14.
Where: Classic Toys at 515 East Battle Street, Talladega
Why: Classic cars and trucks cruise in every 4th Saturday
Who: Gadsden Museum of Art
What: Gadsden Museum of Art exhibition of Terry Muirheid’s analog and digital work
When: During March, Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Exhibit opening March 7, 5 to 7 p.m.
Where: 515 Broad Street, Gadsden
Why: Visit GMA each month to see exhibits by important artists.
What: Power Lunch
When: Noon Wednesday, March 26
Where: Fellowship Hall and Eden Westside
Why: Join other leaders in your community for lunch and a boost of encouragement in Leadership at Power Lunch. RSVP at jcimpactminitries@gmail.com
Anniston Museum of Natural History
Who: Grand River Pickets
What: Jigsaw Puzzle Club
When: Last Friday each month, March 28, April 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Grand River, Suite 672, Leeds Why: Join Jigsaw Puzzle people
Who: Alabama Bass Trail
What: 2025 Tournament Series Championship
Qualifying Bass Tournament
Who: Pell City Chamber
When: March 29, safe daylight
Where: Logan Martin Lake, Lincoln Landing, Travis Drive, Lincoln
Why: Bass fishing! $15,000 first place payout at each qualifying tournament. More at www. alabamabasstrail.com
Who: Museum of Pell City
What: Coach, a special exhibit tribute to Pell City’s beloved coach, Pete Rich, and winningest coach, Will Glover
When: March 29
Where: Museum of Pell City, Pell City Municipal Complex
Why: Exhibit tributes to people, places and events that shaped Pell City’s history
APRIL
Who: National Wild Turkey Federation
What: Logan Martin Longbeards Hunting Heritage Banquet
When: April 3. 6 p.m.
Where: Celebrations, 3005 Martin St. S, Cropwell
Why: The mission of the National Wild Turkey Federation is the conservation of the wild turkey and the preservation of our hunting heritage. Register online: events.nwtf.org/10140-2025/tickets
Who: Talladega’s Historic Ritz Theatre
What: Purple Madness: A Tribute to Prince
When: 7 p.m., April 4
Where: Ritz Theatre, 115 Court Street North, Talladega
Why: It’s Prince! Tickets and info at www. ritztalladega.com or call 256-315-0000
Who: Bass anglers
What: 18th Annual Coosa Landing Super Bass Tournament
When; April 4 and 5
Where: Neely Henty Lake, Coosa Landing, Gadsden
Why: Compete for $10,000 first place payout.
Who: Leeds Knights of Columbus Council 5597
What: Knights of Columbus Charity Bingo Night
When: First and third Fridays, April 4 and 18, 5 to 8 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. and Bingo starts at 6 p.m. Food available for purchase
Where: Leeds Civic Center, 1000 Park Drive
Why: Play bingo for cash prizes while raising money for local charities. Call Don Tice at 205-542-0671 for information
Who: Bikes and bikers, Big Mac Bikes, city of Attalla
What: Alabama Bike Show and Swap
When: Saturday, April 5
Where: Downtown Attalla
Why: Benefiting Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Bikes, including classic, mountain, touring muscle and BMX. Free. Check out antique and boutiques nearby. More info, call Mackey Johnson, 256-490-4316
Who: Gospel singing
What: Looking for a City: A Gospel Music Journey by Theatre of Gadsden
When: April 5
Where: Mort Glosser Amphitheatre, Gadsden
Why: Singing God’s Praises
Who: City of Attalla
What: April Walking Tours
When: April 5
Where: Downtown Attalla
Why: Walk and learn
Who: Leeds Arts Council
What: Masterpiece Mondays at Leeds
Theatre and Arts Center
When: April, 7, 14, 21 and 28, 9 a.m. to noon. Open every Monday.
Where: Leeds Theatre and Arts Center, 8140 Parkway Drive, Leeds
Why: Open every Monday, exhibiting art of new and local artists. www.facebook/com/leeds.a.council
Who: Gadsden Museum of Art
What: Gadsden Museum of Art exhibiting artists Anne Herbert, Wade MacDonald, Stacy Tabb and GMA Children’s Show
When: Throughout April, Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 515 Broad Street, Gadsden
Why: Visit GMA each month to see exhibits by important artists
Who: Heritage Hall Museum and Art Center
What: Tradition to Innovation: Contemporary Art Quilts by Nancy Goodman
When: April 10 to May 30, Tuesdays through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Heritage Hall, 200 South Street East, Talladega
Why: Modern takes on the art of quilting
Who: The Faith Riders
What: Thunder @ the Grove
When: April 10 and May 8, every second Thursday at 6 p.m.
Where: Cedar Grove Baptist Church. 2001 Cedar Grove Road, Leeds.
Why: Join the Faith Riders every second Thursday for food and fellowship. No bikes required. Come as you are. More information at 205-699-8446
Who: City of Oxford
What: Second Friday on Main
When: Friday, April 11, 4 to 8 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Oxford
Why: Explore al Historic Oxford offers in this monthly event. More at www.oxfordmainstreet.com
Who: Barbecue chefs
What: Smoke on the Falls Kidz-Q barbecue competition
When: April 11 and 12
Where: Noccalula Falls Park, Gadsden
Why: It’s two days of barbecue plus music and more. Entertainment by Tim Roberts Band
Who: Alabama Repertory Theatre
What: RUTH, a musical
When: April 11-13
Where: To be announced.
Why: RUTH tells the story of second chances, a musical based on journey of Ruth and Naomi, two widows whose faith ignited a history-changing chain of events. bamareptheatre@gmail.com,
Who: Heritage Hall Museum and Art Center
What: Art on the Lawn
When: April 12, 10 to 4 p.m.
Where: Heritage Hall, 200 South Street East, Talladega
Why: Artisans and music on the lawn
Who: Downtown Talladega merchants
What: Second Saturday
When: Saturday, April 12, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Talladega Bottling Works
Why: Music and more each Second Saturday
Who: American Legion Attalla Post 71
What: Dinner and Dance
When: April 12 and 26, Second and fourth Saturdays each month, 5 to 11 p.m.
Where: 201 Griffin Street, Attalla
Why: Dinner and dancing fun
Who: Bass anglers
What: B.A.S.S. Alabama Nation state regional tournament
When: April 12
Where: Neely Henry Lake, Coosa Landing, Gadsden
Why: More bass fishing
Who: Downtown Talladega merchants
What: Second Saturday
When: April 12, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Talladega Bottling Works
Why: Music and more each Second Saturday
Who: Coosa Valley Model Railroad Club
What: Model Railroad Train Show
When: April 12
Where: Mary G. Hardin Cultural Center, Gadsden
Why: Model Trains!
Who: Pell City Chamber
What: Third Thursdays in Downtown Pell City
When: Thursday, April 17, 11 a.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Pell City
Why: Look for specials, sales and fun.
Who: Bike riders
What: 6th Annual Eagle Rock Easter Classic bike ride
When: April 18
Where: Rainbow Middle School, Rainbow City
Why: Bike riding in beauty
Who: Alabama Bass Trail
What: 2025 Tournament Series Championship, North Division Qualifying Bass Tournament
When: April 19, safe daylight
Where: Neely Henry Lake, Coosa Landing, 1 Huff Drive, Gadsden
Why: Bass fishing! $15,000 first place payout at each qualifying tournament. More at www. alabamabasstrail.com
Who: Gospel singers
What: Mr. Bowtie’s Gospel in the Park
When: April 20
Where: Moragne Park in Gadsden
Why: It’s Gospel
Who: Yard sale vendors and shoppers
What: Highway 132 Yard Sale
When: April 24
Where: Highway 132 from Altoona to Oneonta
Why: Giant yard sale
Who: Talladega’s Historic Ritz Theatre
What: An Evening with Jason Crabb
When: 7 p.m. April 24
Where: Ritz Theatre, 114 Court Street North, Talladega
Why: Check it out. Tickets and info at www. ritztalladega.com or call 256-315-0000
Who: Bass anglers
What: Fishers of Men Legacy Series Bass Tournament
When: April 25, safe daylight
Where: Neely Henry Lake, Coosa Landing, Gadsden
Why: Alabama North East Division qualifying.
MAY
Who: Talladega’s Historic Ritz Theatre
What: The Maverick Lounge Series presents The History, Music and Story of Marvin Gaye
When: 7 p.m. May 2
Where: Ritz Theatre, 114 Court Street North, Talladega
Why: Music legend. Tickets and info at www. ritztalladega.com or call 256-315-0000
Who: Junior bass anglers
What: Alabama B.A.S.S Nation Junior State Championship
When: May 3, safe daylight
Where: Neely Henry Lake, Coosa Landing, Gadsden
Why: Championship bass fishing
CATCHIN’ THE COOSA
An angler’s guide to Neely Henry and Logan Martin Lakes
Warmer weather means fish are getting ready to spawn
By Zeke Gossett
LOGAN MARTIN
Warmer weather and longer days these two months have the fish on the move from their wintertime homes.
Typically, in March, I still believe the bass are in their prespawn mood. They are feeding up and fattening up, preparing to move into their bedding areas to get ready to spawn. Usually, I’ll target most of these fish in 10 feet of water or less this time of year.
Fish love to stage on points that lead into spawning bays. Also, brush and shallow docks are great places to look for fish making a pit stop before they spawn.
A few lures I reach for would be a bladed jig, square bill crank bait, or a topwater walking bait. If the water is still in the mid-50s, I’ll reach mainly for the bladed jig and squarebill and cover as much water as possible. I target creeks on the lower end of the lake. Generally, this is where the fish will try and spawn first.
I also like to target windy, if possible. Once the water temp reaches the 60-degree mark, that’s when I reach for the topwater walking bait. I do this especially on cloudy, windy days. The fish will usually be one to three feet deep on points. Do not be afraid to throw it mid-day if the conditions are right. This is my favorite technique to catch these fish, especially in April. Usually, if we have our normal weather pattern, you will really start to see the largemouth bass lock on their beds. This is the time get the spinning rods out and get on the finesse gear.
The tried and true wacky rigged senko is an awesome way to get these bedding largemouth bass to commit. Now, I do switch gears when it comes to fishing for spotted bass. Spotted bass tend to spawn in shallow bays and flats in a little deeper water. An effective way to cover water and efficiently pick these broader areas apart is with a Carolina Rig. I use about a 2-foot
Henry Lake Association
3514 Rainbow Dr, Ste. 415, Rainbow City, AL 35906
Ph: (256) 368-5200
Hrs: M-F 8am to 5pm www. NeelyHenryLake.org
Neely
leader with a ½ oz. tungsten sinker. One of my favorite baits to use is a Menace Grub from Strike King Lure Company in green pumpkin or chartreuse pepper.
I generally want a smaller bait that way because once you drag it across their bed, they can easily just pick it up and hold on to it longer. This a great way to catch those big ole Coosa River Spotted Bass later on in the month once the fish really start to lock down on bed.
NEELY HENRY
These two months are when Neely Henry can really shine and produce some big fish. Just like Logan Martin, these fish are on the move once the days start getting longer and warmer.
Neely Henry bass love to live shallow this time of year. My approach is a little different, though, on this lake. I typically like to target mid-lake areas this time of year. My favorite places to find these fish are creeks mouths and small river pockets.
Neely has a lot of bank grass and wood to offer in these short pockets. These pockets also have a lot of shallow docks that fish like to stage on before they spawn. My three favorite baits to use are a frog, swim jig and stick bait.
In early March, I will fish with the swim jig a lot more than the other two baits because the water temperature is usually still on the cooler side. Another great way to find fish on Neely Henry this early in the spawn is on rip rap banks. These banks hold heat and tend to hold fish anytime of day.
A squarebill crankbait is usually what I will start with on the rip rap banks. I normally have to play with a number of colors to find the right one! If the bass do not seem to want the crankbait, I’ll slowly fish down the rip rap with a jig – especially if it’s a very slick, calm day.
Just like Logan Martin, you can also catch fish around shallow docks. Typically, the docks in five feet or less tend to be the best. If the fish seem to be active, I’ll start out with a bladed jig. The bladed jig allows me to make more cast in and in turn, I am able to present the bait to more fish.
Just like the rip rap I talked about earlier, sometimes on slick calm days, the jig will outperform any bait on the docks. Once the water temp reaches the 60-degree mark, that’s when I’ll pick up the frog. The frog and swim jig combo is something I can stick with all day.
Once we get into the month of April, that’s when I will start adding in the stick bait. And just like on Logan Martin, you can’t forget about the trusted senko-type bait. I generally Texas rig the senko on light 5/16 oz. weight. I really reach for this bait when I feel like the fish are in full blown spawning mood.
I’ll pitch this bait around stumps and docks or wherever I feel like a fish might be spawning. You might not be able to physically see the fish since Neely is generally pretty dirty water. Just fish slow inside pockets and really pick everything apart. This is the best way to get bit while the fish are really locked on beds.
The bass are in big time transition during these two months, but these months can offer up some of the most rewarding fish catches for the entire year.
Zeke Gossett of Zeke Gossett Fishing grew up on the Coosa River and Logan Martin Lake. He is a former collegiate champion and is now a professional angler on the B.A.S.S. tour circuit and is a fishing guide. Learn more about Zeke at: zekegossettfishing.com.
CONGRESSMAN MIKE ROGERS
Representing
District of Alabama
Voice of the River
“Spawnsorships”
The Spawning Season is officially here, and we’re excited to provide you with some quick tips, information, and best practices to kickstart your fishing adventure on the Coosa this season!
• Water temperature plays a key role in predicting the fish spawning cycle. Prespawn begins in late winter or early spring, with bass feeding aggressively to build up for the spawn. On the Coosa, bass typically spawn in the spring when the water temperature reaches around 60°F. Post-spawn fish tend to head back toward the main channel or deeper waters.
• During mid to late spring, fish are commonly found in shallow bays at the backs of coves. Before you head out, be sure to check current weather conditions and forecasts—not only for your safety, but also because fish behavior can change with the weather.
• To help sustain healthy fish populations, never underestimate the power of catch-and-release on the Coosa River! Minimize handling time and exposure to air. If you aren’t planning to take a photo, please consider releasing the fish without touching it or using a net.
• Keep your livewell clean and ensure the water is circulating throughout your fishing trip. As a general guideline, aim for no more than 1 pound of bass per gallon of water. Understand your livewell’s capacity and fill it to about three-quarters full to start. Be sure to give it a good clean before you hit the water this season!
For more fishing tips, to find your next hot spot, and to learn about local fish consumption advisories, check out our website. It’s your go-to resource for everything you need to know about fishing the Coosa! Visit CoosaRiver.org/FishGuide or scan the QR code!
Also, we’re gearing up for Swim Guide 2025 and looking for sponsors to help offset the cost of this public program!
Sponsorships start at just $250 and help your business be seen across the watershed over 2 million times! Swim Guide’s goal is to provide YOU with water quality updates at popular recreation sites along the river, so you can make informed decisions about where to spend your summer days on the Coosa. Ready to dive in? Email info@ coosariver.org to learn more!
Follow Coosa Riverkeeper on Facebook & Instagram @CoosaRiverkeeper For more information, swim over to www.CoosaRiver.org.
DISCOVER THE MAGIC
