Story by Carol Pappas Submitted photos | Archived photos
The saying goes, ‘Build it, and they will come.’ In Lincoln these days, they have already arrived.
Since opening less than a year ago, Lincoln’s Landing is now on the map as a destination point. Thousands of boats have already launched from this cutting-edge fishing park, and tournaments are already scheduled two years out.
Les Robinson, director of Lincoln’s Landing, has been “a real plus to this project and to our city,” Lincoln Mayor Lew Watson said. “He puts his heart into it, which is what you need if you’re going to have a successful project.”
Success? Just take a look at the numbers. Lincoln’s Landing has launched 50 tournaments since July, Robinson said. With tournaments and everyday use, it already has reached the 4,500 to 5,000 boats launched mark, “and we haven’t been open a year,” he added.
Park already luring large tournaments
The prestigious Bassmasters College Series is coming to Lincoln’s Landing in June for a two-day tournament and in the next 18 to 24 months, Robinson predicts, a Bassmasters Elite or Bassmasters Open, which are major attractions in the fishing world, are in its future. But it doesn’t stop there. The tourist dollars it lures along with the notoriety for Lincoln will have a huge economic impact, not only for Lincoln but the surrounding areas.
In the next budget period, a pavilion, bridge and swimming beach will be on the agenda for the city and this 40-acre site. “Then we’ll catch our breath a little bit,” Robinson said.
The park already includes a 165-foot long by 60-foot wide, stacked stone grand pavilion with fireplace and 4,000 square feet of open space for other events, fishing piers and slips and a boat ramp that can launch 10 boats at a time. The first wedding at the park is already booked.
Parking also will be a consideration. While 250 parking spaces seemed like plenty when the park was on the drawing board. The Alabama Bass Trail event had every spot filled plus parking on the grass, Mayor Watson said.
Two other pavilions – both 30 x 30 feet – will be built near the shoreline and be rentable for events as well as everyday use. A pad is planned for a food truck area to serve tournaments.
“It’s more than just a fishing park,” Robinson said. “We have a lot to offer.”
In July, when construction was at its height, Watson could already see what was taking shape and its potential. He noted its accessibility – near Interstate 20 and U.S. 78. “It is right off the main channel on the lake, with year-round water,” Watson said at the time. “It is the perfect place for the park. It’s like, ‘If we build it, they will come.’”
Take a look around on any given day. They’re already here.
The months of May and June on Logan Martin can sometimes leave fish in a post-spawn funk, but maybe these tips can help you catch a few more bass during this time frame.
Zeke hauls in another big one
In early May, you can find shad spawns early in the morning. You’re going to find shad spawning around docks and seawalls. You will know when you see one because shad will be running up and down dock posts and seawalls.
Watch for bass schooling and eating these baitfish. My favorite baits for a shad spawn are a spinnerbait and topwater walking bait.
Once the sun gets up, the shad spawning action will end, and fishing usually tends to slow down. I will still fish shallow docks with either a jig or wacky rigged stick bait.
Once we get into the month of June, I will start my search out deep. Fish will tend to school up offshore on long points and river ledges.
My main two baits out deep are a deep diving crankbait and swimbait. Having good current flow is key for this bite as well. This helps the fish group up and feed.
If you can find an active school, you can load the boat quickly.
Neely Henry
Neely Henry in May and June are some of the best times to fish this lake.
I keep it super simple when it comes to fishing Neely Henry these two months. In early May, you can still find a shad spawn on seawalls and grass.
A white swim jig is a deadly bait around these areas where shad are spawning. The swim jig allows you to cover a lot of water fast in order to find active fish.
Once the sun goes up, I tend to stay shallow at Neely Henry in both months. I will target grass and docks on the mid to lower end of the lake with a finesse jig and chatterbait. I keep these two baits locked into my hand until I find the active fish that are feeding.
A lot of fish will live shallow on this lake year round. It might be a grind-up shallow, but that is where you’re going to find your bigger bites.
Editor’s Note:
Zeke Gossett of Zeke Gossett Fishing grewup on the Coosa River and Logan MartinLake. He is a former collegiate championand is now a professional angler on theB.A.S.S. tour circuit and isa fishing guide.
Newlyweds embrace lake life, life together a perfect recipe
Story by Scottie Vickery | Photos by Kelsey Bain
Mealtime at William and Lindsey Weller’s Logan Martin Lake home takes a lot of planning. It’s not so much the menu that requires extra thought; it’s more about logistics.
She works three nights a week as a labor and delivery nurse in Birmingham. He works days as an aortic clinical specialist and travels all over the state, so the young newlyweds are constantly juggling crazy schedules. That’s why, on several weekdays, they often rely on a meal kit home delivery company so they can sit down each night and share a meal together.
“It’s just so easy,” William said of the meals that arrive with pre-portioned ingredients and recipes. “You don’t have to worry about going out or going to the grocery store, and it’s pretty healthy. I don’t mind cooking; I just don’t like figuring out what to cook.”
When they do have a little more time, they love sharing the duties in the kitchen. “I’m more of a recipe follower, and he’s more of an eye-baller,” Lindsey said, and William agreed. “I’m a dash of this and dash of that, and it works out most of the time,” he said. “If it tastes good, it worked. If it doesn’t, I know not to do it again.”
One meal they’ve mastered, seared ahi tuna and twice-baked potatoes, has become a favorite. “It’s our go-to,” William said. “It’s super easy, and it doesn’t take long at all. It’s what we made on Valentine’s Day.”
Saying “I do” to lake life
The Wellers, who married last August, are still new to lake life. William, who grew up in Trussville, and Lindsey, who is from Hayden, started dating in March 2020 and were engaged eight months later.
“I’ve always been the kind of person who takes things slow – and then I met him,” Lindsey said. William moved into their Logan Martin home last April, and she joined him after their wedding in August. Since then, they’ve been settling in to married life, entertaining family and friends and enjoying their own little piece of paradise that’s not far from Lakeside Park.
“We just love waking up and seeing the view,” William said. “We bought a boat last August, so we’re looking forward to our first summer with it.”
In the meantime, they’ve hosted weekend barbecues, Memorial Day and Fourth of July parties, bridal and baby showers, as well as family Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. “There’s always something going on here,” William said.
“We’re both big family people,” Lindsey added. “We have 10 girls in the family, and every Christmas we have a whole day of baking. It’s so much fun, and we had it here last year. I’m more of a baker than I am a cook.”
Their home, with its open floorplan, is perfect for entertaining. The kitchen, which has a gas stove and butler’s pantry, features leathered quartz countertops with seating for four at the island as well as a table for six. There’s concrete flooring throughout the main level, and the living area boasts wood beams, a brick fireplace flanked with open shelving and a beautiful view of the lake. They especially enjoy the patio that’s just off the living area, and Lindsey said they hope to add an outdoor fireplace and kitchen soon.
William handles most of the grilling duties when there’s a crowd, cooking everything from hamburgers and hotdogs to ribs and Boston butts, while friends and family pitch in with side dishes. He’s also mastered the art of cooking a big breakfast – pancakes, eggs and bacon – on the flat top grill.
“In the summer, there’s people here almost every weekend,” he said, adding that they have the best of both worlds. “It’s always lots of fun, and as much as we enjoy hosting and doing things with family and friends, we love our alone time, like movie nights, too.”
Cooking up fun
Lindsey works three 12-hour shifts a week, on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights. She comes home in the morning, goes to bed around 8 a.m. and wakes up about 4 p.m. “While I’m sleeping, he likes to start the Home Chef, and then when I get up around 4, I help him with it,” she said. Those evenings, they usually eat about 5:30, and William has been known to grab a bowl of cereal or something around 9 p.m.
The other days, Lindsey tries to be up by noon. “I hate wasting my day,” she said. Since they have more time, they may cook out those nights or try new recipes. Although most meals are winners, there have been a few that haven’t turned out quite as expected.
No matter the outcome, though, they have a lot of fun. “We laugh at each other all the time,” he said. “She was making broccoli seasoned with ranch dressing one time, and it called for 2 tablespoons, but she put two packets of seasoning in. It was so salty, and I was guzzling water, but I could tell what it could have been. I tasted the potential.”
Although he likes to boast that he never uses a timer, Lindsey is quick to point out that he probably should. “How many Home Chef meals have you burned?” she asked with a laugh. “It’s only the glazed meals,” he replied. “I made that mistake like twice, and now I know better than to walk away while it’s cooking.”
One thing they never joke about is how much they love the life they’re building together. “It’s pretty great,” William said. “We’re pretty lucky.”
Seared Ahi Tuna
Ahi tuna steaks
Coconut oil
Everything Bagel seasoning
Sriracha mayonnaise
Season tuna steaks with Everything Bagel seasoning. Add about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the pan and preheat for 3-5 minutes. Add tuna and sear 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove steaks from pan, drizzle with Sriracha mayonnaise and serve.
Twice Baked Potatoes
4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, scrubbed
Olive oil
1 cup plus 4 oz. shredded sharp cheese, divided
¼ cup sour cream
¼ cup milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
4 strips bacon cooked crisp and crumbled
Salt
Pepper
Chopped scallions, if desired
Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with foil. Lightly rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the potatoes, evenly spaced, on a baking sheet.
Bake the potatoes 45 minutes to 1 hour. Remove potatoes from the oven, let them cool about 10 minutes before cutting them in half, lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the potato flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch thickness of flesh in each shell.
Return potato shells to baking sheet and cook at 400°F for about 10 minutes.
Combine sour cream, milk, half the cheese, half the butter, half the bacon and half the scallions (if desired) with the baked potato flesh. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix together until smooth.
Remove potato shells from oven and set oven to broil. Fill each shell with the potato mixture until it’s rounded in the middle. Top with remaining cheese, bacon, butter and scallions.
Broil potatoes about 5-10 minutes until cheese has melted. Watch closely.
Allow them to cool about 10 minutes before serving.
How the ‘Ten Island Three’ preserved Alabama history
Story by Katie Bohannon Submitted photos | Archived photos
While prominent names like de Soto and Jackson might eclipse the countless individuals affiliated with the Ten Islands, their experiences, along with the incredible historical foundation planted before them, might have been submerged with the islands if not for the commitment of three local women.
Together, avid researchers Patsy Hanvey, Bette Sue McElroy and Charlotte Hood advocated for the recognition of the Ten Islands in the early 1990s, negotiating the area’s preservation with Alabama Power. The group, who called themselves ‘The Ten Island Three,’ convinced Alabama Power to finance The Ten Islands Historical Park.
“We just started kind of pulling things together,” Hood told The Gadsden Times Staff Writer Cindy West in a 1991 article. “We realized then how unique this history is. It’s just a complete cycle of humanity, from prehistoric to contemporary.”
Commercial art and anthropology-focused Jacksonville State University graduate Hanvey was recognized by the state of Oklahoma as Cherokee by birth. Throughout her life, she traveled across the U.S. until retiring near what was once the Cherokee Nation capital on the Coosa River in North Gadsden, where her ancestors lived.
A recipient of the Annie Forney Daugette award for most outstanding graduate in academics, talent and character, Hanvey overcame dyslexia and frequently reproduced prehistoric and historic Southeastern Cherokee pottery in traditional form. She dug her own clay, keeping dried chunks in various colors in baskets in her workroom and created paints from natural resources.
DeSoto
Hanvey’s archeology professor introduced her to fellow scholar McElroy, who shared her interests. An Auburn University graduate, McElroy taught at Disque Middle School and Episcopal Day School, giving private art lessons to students before becoming the archivist at the Gadsden Public Library. McElroy’s daughter, Mary Ann Watkins, recalls her mother as a lover of life and people, who treasured stories from all generations and discovered value in each moment. McElroy’s immense passion for learning sparked her intrigue in The Ten Islands, which led to her eventual crossed paths with Hanvey and Hood.
Hood studied piano at DeShazo College of Music in Memphis, Tenn., attending both Gadsden State Community College and Jacksonville State University to specialize in early childhood education and music. A 1991 Gadsden Times article detailed Hood’s discovery of an oddly shaped natural artifact at the Ten Islands area, which she found with her husband, an Alabama Power executive. Upon showing the rock to JSU archeology specialist Harry Holstein (Hanvey’s professor), Holstein connected Hood with Hanvey and McElroy, writing a new chapter in history with formation of ‘The Ten Island Three.’
“They were really good friends,” said Watkins. “They were all so passionate about their work.”
Former Gadsden Times writer Bill Thornton recalled a 1993 interview with the women during the official reveal of the historic park. Thornton, who was 22 years old and fresh out of school at the time, remembers them as a hoot – an enthusiastic and unforgettable bunch whose commitment and caring natures were evident.
Aerial view at the park
“It’s been really exciting to see this come together,” Hanvey told Thornton. “The information on this place came together so quickly. It was like someone took us by the hand.”
“People need to know this is a wonderful place, with adventure coming out of every tree,” said McElroy in the same article.
Though Thornton only wrote one article about them, he noted Hanvey, McElroy and Hood made an impression on him that withstood the test of time.
“There are certain people who have been together so long they can finish each other’s sentences,” said Thornton, sharing the trio were those people. “They had a ball with what they were doing – with this shared knowledge they could tap into. This matters (what they did to preserve the Ten Islands). When you think about Alabama history, Alabama is still a rural place in many areas where the past is still very much alive. That was their work. They stayed on my mind so long because of the kind of rare people they were. I can’t remember what I wrote last week, but I remember them.”
Hanvey’s son, Mike, described the trio as a relentless group determined to ensure history is not forgotten, who taught him the importance of Native American culture and influence. He recognized the specific areas of unique expertise each woman possessed, bringing her beneficial talents to the table in a collaborative effort to protect land cradling generations of valuable lessons and intriguing stories.
“The ‘Ten Island Three’ did not want the area to simply be lake covered and forgotten, as thousands of people today are fishing and swimming right above where Hernando de Soto, Andrew Jackson, Davy Crockett and Sam Houston once crossed the wild-flowing Coosa River,” said Mike. “Patsy Hanvey, Bette Sue McElroy and Charlotte Hood might not be remembered by their work but will always be remembered by the millions who will pass through and enjoy the Ten Islands Historical Park for eternity … but that’s all they wanted from the start.
“Man has the ability to build on top of things – to build dams and create lakes without a memorial to remind us the importance of preserving historic locations that came before. Things can easily be forgotten, and that takes special people with special talents to remind us of that importance. In this case, Bette Sue McElroy, Patsy Hanvey and Charlotte Hood were those people … ‘The Ten Island Three.’”
An excerpt written by Hood, McElroy and Hanvey for The Alabama Historical Association culminates the connection between the past and future ‘The Ten Island Three’ strove to protect and preserve. While ancient eras dwindle and new generations arrive, rising and falling with the transformation of the land, passionate individuals like them remain constant throughout the centuries. They act as dedicated gatekeepers of the lives, stories and history submerged in the modern world, luring lost chronicles to the surface.
“On certain days in the winter, when the river is at a low level, and no units are generating, it is still possible to walk across rocks and mud below the dam,” reads the concluding paragraph of the Ten Island Three’s 1995 submission to The Alabama Historical Association. “There you can see the prehistoric fish weir and walk around the bottom of Lock Three. But the days of wading the shoals, crossing on a ferry, walking a railroad bridge, or flagging a train to ‘get to the other side’ of the river are gone forever. As water flows through the dam, the electricity produced by Alabama Power Company lights the way for future generations.”
Ten Islands spans centuries of history
Story by Katie Bohannon Submitted photos | Archived photos
Ages before Etowah County’s Southside bridge connected cities or Alabama Power Company’s H. Neely Henry Dam furthered the development of the Coosa River, a series of 10 islands speckled the water of Northeast Alabama, one mile west of present-day Ohatchee.
Rousseau
The Ten Islands, coined “Oti Palin” by the Creek people who would settle there, traces back to 10,000 B.C., where a land enriched with natural resources such as shoals, river crossings and pathways flourished. Numerous historical incidents occurred on the collection of islands, linking the past to the present in significant ways.
According to John A. Walthall’s Prehistoric Indians of the Southeast, the islands were abundant with animals, including deer, raccoon, gray fox, turkey and quail, whose remnants join a collection of others proving their existence alongside pre-historic hunters and gatherers.
Earliest Ten Islands settlers built fish weirs and stone, reed or wooden traps placed within stream channels to capture fish swimming along currents. Today, one of these fish weirs – along with other artifacts – remains visible below the southernmost island.
The arrival of Hernando de Soto in 1540 altered the first-existing civilizations and charted a different course for the Ten Islands as he crossed the Coosa River, paving the way for other Europeans to follow his footsteps.
The late 1600s established a trading center for Ten Islands inhabitants, with a Frenchman named Bonnefoy journaling his voyage of the Chickasaw or Creek Path which led him to “the river of the Alibamons,” or the Coosa River. Archaeologists later discovered evidence of a town at Ten Islands, with burials revealing French, Spanish and British trade objects at the edge of Bonnefoy’s Creek Path toward the Coosa. Years following Bonnefoy, George Wood claimed the land where the town resided and named it Wood’s Island, a title it carries since 1821.
Andrew Jackson, who would become president of the United States, traveled to the Ten Islands region as a general during The Creek Civil War of 1813, marching forces from Tennessee to Gunter’s Landing (present-day Guntersville) down the Creek Path toward the Ten Islands.
Well-known historical figures served under Jackson’s command, including frontiersman Davy Crockett, future Sec. of State John Henry Eaton, former Texas Gov. Sam Houston and military general (and Jackson’s nephew) John Coffee.
Notable citizens of the Cherokee, Creek and Chickasaw nations fought with Jackson, including Cherokee citizens Richard Brown, Major Ridge, John Lowery, John Ross and the Pathkiller; Creek citizens James Fife, Spoke Hadjo, Chinnaby the ‘Great Natchez Warrior,’ and his two sons Selocta and Sarlotta Fixico; and Chickasaw leader William Colbert.
During this time, Jackson established Fort Strother at the Ten Islands, which became the destination of Coffee, Crockett and other men after winning the Battle of Tallasahatchee. As the war progressed, supplies dwindled and soldiers grew weary, an altercation between an officer and recent recruit John Wood prompted Jackson to order an action that would garner opposition for his presidential campaign. Following a confrontation where an officer required Wood to clean his untidy barracks rather than return to his post, which Wood refused, a court martial found Wood guilty of mutiny. The 18-year-old Wood was executed and buried at Fort Strother, along with many other soldiers whose graves remain there today.
Fort Strother served as the link between several significant battles in the war, including the Battle of Talladega and the Battle of Horseshoe Bend, which largely brought about a conclusion to the Creek Civil War.
After Jackson’s arrival at the Ten Islands, a series of events occurred – from the land serving as a survey point between the United States and Cherokee and Creek nations to the enforced relocation of thousands of Creek citizens from the Ten Islands region across the Coosa River to Gunter’s Landing. Walking in exile, the path they forged decades before was known as the Trail of Tears.
Throughout the eras, the Ten Islands proved the launching site of the first steamboat on the Coosa River and the site of the Civil War’s Ten Island Skirmish – during which Union Gen. Lovelle Rousseau and his forces defeated Confederate opposition and destroyed Cane Creek and Janney furnaces.
Locks intended to grant riverboats easy access through the shoals were constructed along the Coosa, beginning near Greensport and ending below Wood’s Island, after which a railroad bridge was built.
After Alabama Power Company introduced hydroelectric plant H. Neely Henry Dam in 1962, only two of the original Ten Islands remain – Wood’s Island and a small rock projection visible north of the dam.
What began as a class project of Leadership Pell City over 20 years ago has transformed into one of the biggest events of the year – Hometown Block Party.
Now presented by the Greater Pell City Chamber of Commerce, the block party has grown into an event that annually draws thousands to downtown Pell City to a free, outdoor festival featuring live music – all genres – food, games, vendors of all types and a whole lot of fun.
Held the first Saturday in June, this year’s event is set for June 4 from 3 to 9 p.m. and will stretch all around the courthouse square plus side streets in a party atmosphere that gets better every year.
Live music is event’s centerpiece.
The mission and vision of the block party has never wavered from its beginnings. It’s only gotten better. Its aim is to draw people downtown for all kinds of festivities with neighbors meeting neighbors, reminiscent of neighborhood block parties of years gone by.
Though the entertainment schedule is still being finalized, Chamber Director Urainah Glidewell says a crowd favorite, the WingNuts, are a go. “People love them,” she says. They play oldies from the 60s and 70s.
Another favorite, Kudzu, is also on tap. “We’ll be showcasing a lot of local talent,” says Glidewell. “This is a typical neighborhood together. It’s just a great time for people to come out and have a good time. Kick back and listen to some good music.”
Three stages for live music will be set up at various street corners, so if you have one type of music you like better than the other, just keep strolling. You’ll hear it.
Folks also will have a choice from a wide variety of vendors, offering everything from food, clothing and jewelry to turtles and lizards.
“It wouldn’t be the block party without the turtle man,” laughed Glidewell. “He comes every year.” She says he sells his critters in a variety of sizes.
Just walking down the street during the festival is an experience unto itself. “The aroma from all the food cooking is wonderful — cheesecake, cookies, barbecue, sausage,” she says, naming a few on the menu.
An annual feature of the Pell City block party is the car show. Entry fee is $10 a car. Part of the proceeds will go this year to Mileena Painter, a local girl who is battling leukemia. Entrants can sign up as late as the day of event.
Story by Linda Long LakeLife 24/7 Archive photos Submitted photos
When the dogwoods bloom, and tulips and daffodils compete for color, you know it’s springtime in the South. You also know it’s party time in Pell City!
The traditional must-attend event of the year is just weeks away, Logan Martin LakeFest and Boat Show, the Southeast’s largest in-water boat show, May 20 – May 22 at Lakeside Park.
And why not? Where else can you be filled with music, carnival food, more music, barbecue and what some call the best crab cakes anywhere around? And you just might go home with a brand-new boat.
According to LakeFest Eric Housh, who organizes the annual event with Justin Hogeland, some 35,000 folks are expected to attend this year, up from 5,000 at the first one 12 years ago.
And they’ll be coming by boat or car – maybe on foot – lawn chairs, kids and pets in tow.
“Yeah,” laughed Housh, “a guy brought a pet snake one year. But mostly, we get dogs. It’s the biggest party on the lake – one of those events that’s family friendly and pet friendly.”
Housh says while the three-day festival offers something for everyone, the boats are by far the biggest draw. Seven boat dealers are showcasing their products this year with everything thing from bass boats to pontoons, tritoons and personal watercrafts.
“The boats are in the water,” said Housh. “People can actually test drive them on the lake, something they can’t do at dealerships. Of course, our presenting sponsor is America’s First Federal Credit Union, so they’re on site with their equipment. If somebody finds a boat they really like, they can finance it right there and basically go home a boat owner.”
Housh applauds all the event’s corporate sponsors saying, “We’ve been really blessed in these 12 years with a core group of sponsors who, from day one, believed in this event and the community and who worked to support it. Having that level of commitment from the corporate partners makes putting on an event like LakeFest so much easier, the fact that we’re able to keep it free. We always said we wanted something that would not only enhance the community but also give back to it.”
And they have – through the impressive event itself and through the tens of thousands of dollars the parent organization, Logan Martin Charity Foundation, has given to nonprofits throughout the community and to improve the park. A pavilion at the park in memory of Jerry Woods, one of the original founders and visionaries of LakeFest, and additional boat slips are courtesy of the group’s foundation.
Housh also gave kudos to the City of Pell City for its support. “Having Lakeside Park as the venue and having the support of the city really helped us grow the event. It’s been phenomenal. The city has always been great to us, and we’ve enjoyed their support.”
Ready for a test drive?
This year, some 50 vendors will offer their wares at LakeFest. All services or products must be targeted to lake living or relevant to the lake lifestyle. Preference is given to businesses that are headquartered or primarily operate in the Logan Martin Lake area.
“We’re expanding the vendor area this year,” said Housh. “We don’t want to exclude anybody who wants to be a part of the event, but we are kind of selective in terms of the kind of vendors we allow down there.”
They have moved the parking area to allow for a lot of green spaces, kids area, access to the splash pad and a lot of areas of interest all weekend long.
On the concert-sized main stage, live music is featured all weekend long as well as all kinds of giveaways. Headlining the 2022 edition is a free concert Saturday night at 7 by country music star Tyler Farr.
As is tradition, on Friday night, around 8 p.m., fireworks light up the sky over Logan Martin Lake with a spectacular show dedicated to veterans, and Col. Robert L. Howard State Veterans Home residents are special guests for the show.
Despite having a day job, Housh says the reason he volunteers his time and energy to LakeFest is simple. “I love it. I love the lake. I grew up on this lake skiing and boating and fishing. I’ve always had a passion for it.”
And by the looks of the size of the crowds that flock there each year, they do, too.
Editor’s Note:Follow LakeFest on Facebook and Instagram. Check loganmartinlakefest.com for updates to scheduling.
LakeFest Schedule
May 20: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
8 am – 1 pm: Vendor Setup
2 pm: LakeFest open to the public
2 pm – 9pm: Beginning GIVEAWAYS on the hour, EVERY HOUR!
4pm – 9 pm: Live music on the TRACKER OFF ROAD stage
Soon after dark (estimated around 8 pm): FIREWORKS show honoring veterans from the Colonel Robert L. Howard State Veterans Home
9 pm: LakeFest closes for the evening
May 21: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
7 am – 9:30 am Vendor Setup
10 am: LakeFest Day 2 Open!
11 am – 9 pm: GIVEAWAYS on the hour, EVERY HOUR
12 pm – 9 pm: Live music on the TRACKER OUTDOORS stage
7 pm: FREE CONCERT Featuring Country Superstar TYLER FARR
9 pm: LakeFest closes for the evening
May 22: Noon – 5:00 PM
12 pm –LakeFest Day 3 Open!
12 pm – 5 pm: Giveaways on the hour, EVERY HOUR
1 pm – 4 pm: Live music on the TRACKER OUTDOORS stage
5 pm: LakeFest 2022 ends!
There will be raffle giveaways every hour on the hour that LakeFest is open.
Pandemic nudge sets wheel in motion for local artist
Story by Roxann Edsall Photos by Meghan Frondorf
Breathing in the essence of her vision, she throws the clay onto the wheel, carefully aiming for the center. Extending her slim hands, she enfolds the clay as it spins and bends to her will. The clay seems to take on a life of its own as it sways to her touch.
Fingers pinching and pressing, the artist patiently pushes and directs the medium to the perfect form and extension. The duet spins and sways until, finally pleased with the performance, the artist ends the dance. Removing the cup, she sets her delicate partner on the shelf to dry.
Virnia Settle with one of he many works
Logan Martin resident and potter Virna Settle has done this carefully choreographed dance many times over the past two years and has produced hundreds of pottery pieces, some of which have been commissioned by those who have seen her work.
While she still sells many of her pieces on Facebook, her handiwork has also been featured at Fish Market restaurant in Birmingham. Because of that exposure, she’s recently been asked to provide pieces for Nichols Nook Coffee Shop in Springville.
Settle has learned from one of the best. Her mentor and teacher is internationally-renowned potter, Tena Payne, owner of Leeds-based Earthborn Pottery. Payne’s works may be seen at some of the most famous spots across the country, including the Bellagio Resort and Casino, Caesars Palace, and Peche Restaurant in New Orleans. Birmingham top chef Chris Hastings (Hot and Hot Fish Club) used her serving pieces when he won Food Network’s “Iron Chef America.”
A journey of discovery
Originally from Manila, Philippines, Settle spent quite a few years in the restaurant business herself before discovering her other artistic gifts. She moved to the Birmingham area in 1993 and spent several years running two Birmingham restaurants, La Dolce Vita and Amore Ristorante Italiano with a former partner.
It was at La Dolce Vita that she met Harold, a Birmingham cardiologist, who would later become her husband. He and his first wife were frequent customers before he lost her to pancreatic cancer in 2010.
The two were married at their Cropwell home in the spring of 2012. Three years into their marriage, Virna discovered a talent for art after attending a painting party with friends. “I went to the party and painted a fish,” she says. “I loved it, so I took classes for five years to learn more.”
What she learned, along with her natural talent, brought her success as a painter. Paintings she hasn’t sold hang on her walls or sit in her small art studio. Harold wishes she would spend more time painting, but she has found her greater love in pottery. “I encourage her,” he says. “She’s really good. I love the way she blends her colors.”
Just two years ago, she didn’t know a thing about pottery. Her interest in pottery was a blessing that came out of the pandemic. In the spring of 2020, she was visiting with her sister and a friend by video chat when the subject of dinner came up.
A discussion of fish and ways to prepare it led the friend to suggest that Virna get a Palayok, a traditional Philippine clay pot used to steam fish. After that call, she got on her computer and looked up where she could take classes in pottery so she could make her own Palayok. She found those classes nearby at Earthborn Pottery.
Throwing the clay onto the pottery wheel, she says, is not as easy as you may think. “It took more than a year for me to learn to center the clay properly,” admits Settle. “If you don’t get it right in the center, it will wobble, and that’s not good.” It’s the throwing part, she adds, that locked in her love of the craft.
“When you throw the pottery, you can see it come together and be something,” she explains. The process and how the clay transforms is what she loves. From her masonry arch back porch, she doesn’t have to look far for inspiration for her work. The earthy tones and muted blues and greens mimic the expansive lawn that leads out to the waters of Logan Martin Lake. She throws her pottery from that spot, just a few steps from her backyard paradise.
It’s the perfect spot for creating beauty. Ironically, Settle does not like perfection in her work. It’s the rustic imperfection, the asymmetry, that makes a piece right for her. Her pieces are all unique in design and color, true one-of-a-kind art. Her plates have curved and often rippled edges, though not evenly so. The colorations are deep and earthy.
The urge to learn more and different styles of pottery design is driving her to travel more. She’s checked out pottery in North Carolina recently and says she wants to continue to learn more about other styles. European design is an interest, so she hopes to travel there soon.
Meanwhile, she waits on projects at various stages of drying, firing or painting. Pottery is not for the impatient. Smaller pieces can dry in two to four days, but larger pieces, like the commissioned berry bowl on the shelf, can take two weeks to reach the leather-hard stage.
When they reach that stage, the bottoms are trimmed and waxed. Then she paints, waits for it to dry, then fires in her kiln. Then there’s the glaze and another firing. And, she understands that at any stage the piece can break, and she will have to start the process again at the wheel. Embrace the process, the imperfection and the patience. Practicing those steps, Settle hopes one day to see her pottery on the worldwide stage. For now, she is content with the process, at the wheel, one dance at a time.
Reeling in a brighter future for Lincoln and region
Story by Carol Pappas Submitted photos
Rising from the banks of a main channel stretch of Logan Martin Lake in the small city of Lincoln lies the future of an entire region.
That’s what officials see in the reflection of a massive investment taking root on 100 acres adjacent to Lincoln’s Landing, a 40-acre fishing park quickly becoming a destination point in its own right. Couple it with Angler’s Pointe, the $30-million residential, recreation and entertainment community now under construction next door, and together, they become a destination spot from all kinds of points inside and well beyond Alabama’s borders.
McCaig & Griffin, a lakeside and commercial development company based in Lincoln, is creating an exclusive waterfront resort with a mix of cottages, RV lots, a swimming pool, an amphitheater-anchored entertainment district of food trucks, arts and crafts and other vendors plus a stage and seating for performances. Dubbed The Yard, the entertainment district is the centerpiece of the project.
McCaig & Griffin CEO DeLane Griffin calls it a return to typically Southern hospitality, reminiscent of families and friends gathering in the back yard while children played and the adults enjoyed the fellowship of their neighbors.
“It will be a relaxed environment,” he said, a place to get away from “the chaos that is the rest of the world and make it disappear for a little while. That’s what I see in my mind – a return to true Southern hospitality.”
Just next door, Lincoln’s Landing, features a world class tournament fishing park, pavilions, a 10-boat launch into the main channel and a boardwalk with fishing piers and boat slips. Plenty of parking accommodates the crowds. Coming in the next phase is a swimming beach. When complete, the park will be a venue for reunions, weddings, get-togethers and other celebrations.
The vision began when the City of Lincoln was considering the 40 acres where the fishing park is now. “We talked about the fishing park and what they wanted, and it became apparent what they were going to need – places for people to stay, something for the families of anglers and recreation,” recalled Griffin.
He and his partners own other lake developments in the area – River Bay, Waterfront and Blue Eye communities, where they have made vast improvements to enhance them for residents.
Layout of the development
As the vision for Angler’s Pointe began to take shape, “we saw it as a community, a resort to serve everyone, not just the fishermen,” he said.
In March, the Lincoln City Council approved rezoning for the property, and creation of plots and appraisals followed. Model cottages are being built now for pre-sale.
Angler’s Pointe will be developed in two phases. Phase I is one- and two-bedroom cottages, 800 to 1,000 square feet – and covered RV lots plus the entertainment district. Phase II is a continuation of the cottages and RV lots. It will become a resort with all the amenities and aesthetics of lake life. In total, there will be 118 RV spots and 203 cottages.
“People from all over the country will be coming to fish here, and we’re not even touching the surface of realizing what it will be,” Griffin said. “This will be a destination point that draws people here.”
Lincoln Mayor Lew Watson couldn’t agree more. “We built the park with the idea to attract more business at the same time,” he said. Angler’s Pointe is “the perfect complement to Lincoln’s Landing. It’s designed to support it. It takes care of lodging needs for people to enjoy the lake. It will bring more people in, attract more business and reinforce Lincoln’s Landing.”
The mayor said he could not have envisioned a better neighbor to the city’s development, which has already exceeded expectations. “We had no idea we would be booking this many tournaments, he said, noting that they have already landed bookings as far ahead as 2024.
And the vision that included more business, like hotels and sit-down restaurants is indeed beginning to have a ripple effect from Lincoln’s Landing and Angler’s Pointe, the mayor said.
“We are beginning to get some attention in that area – a good sign of the efforts.” Likening it to fishing, Watson reasoned, “You have to have good bait. We’re seeing the cork bobbling now, and we’re getting some nibbles.”
Councilman Joey Callahan called the area a “transformation to a recreational family environment that is an asset to the city. It’s a place people can come to on Logan Martin, buy a cabin to rent or stay the weekend. It’s huge for Lincoln and for the whole area.”
It’s bigger than Lincoln, he said. “Spending has a regional impact. We benefit from each other.”
Echoing the sentiment, Councilman Brandon Tate, in whose district the developments lie, called it an asset for the entire county and the state of Alabama. In the short term, “it’s already making a huge impact. There’s lots of interest and people coming in.”
Long term, he sees more good things ahead. Pointing to the developments side by side, he expressed gratitude to Griffin and his company for “seeing the vision and planning a premier, luxury” destination to go with it. “We’re excited to see this happening next to our world-class facility.”
An added benefit, he noted, is a local company undertaking the investment. Griffin has a proven track record in the area, and his experience and understanding will serve the development and the city well. “DeLane and his team are perfect for this. The vision is there, and they will be mirroring what we’re trying to do out there.”
Looking toward the future, Tate said, “Lincoln was already on the map in my mind. This definitely puts it up there with everybody else.”
“DeLane is a visionary,” said Councilwoman Jennie Jones. “That man amazes me.” She, too, sees the future in a brighter light because of Lincoln’s Landing and Angler’s Pointe. There may be other attractions nearby, like Talladega Superspeedway and Barber Motorsports Park, but fishing is a sport that lasts all year long. The impact will be felt throughout the year, too, she said.
“The citizens will benefit,” Jones added, explaining that restaurants and hotels and tourism dollars will follow to meet the needs of anglers. Easy access from Interstate 20 is a plus, and observers should see a sizable economic impact on the entire area. “I’m excited about it. Very excited.”
Robinson eyes the city’s new lake neighborhood as a “win, win, win. This is a win for everybody. It complements the park in such a way that fishermen can stay a stone’s throw away from the park. They can keep their boat in the water and don’t have to launch again.”
As for Angler’s Pointe, “they are just steps away from an attraction to support it.” It checks the boxes for lodging and entertainment needs, and golf cart trails illustrate the close connection between the two developments.
The design of the cabins and RV sites complement Lincoln’s Landing, Robinson said. “It’s a no-brainer that the city would support it. It is only going to complement what we have.”
Kayak, canoe or float your way down some of the most scenic waterways in the region
Story by Graham Hadley LakeLife Magazine archive photos Submitted photos
As warmer weather rolls into Alabama, and the lake levels rise, people take to the water on Logan Martin and Neely Henry lakes in droves – ski boats, houseboats, pontoons, tritoons and personal watercraft become common sights.
But for those looking for a quieter time on the water, many turn to myriad creeks and streams that feed the Coosa River. And the boats of choice for many are human powered – canoes, kayaks and paddle boards. Sometimes, you don’t even need a kayak or canoe – a good inflatable float and a lazy day drifting along the currents is a great way to pass the time.
Whether you are just looking for a great way to get around and get some exercise, cruise parts of the Coosa and its tributaries not accessible to power boats, or even take part in competitive fishing tournaments – the options are endless.
A number of businesses have cropped up over the past few years that cater specifically to the paddle and float crowd, providing rental boats and equipment and transportation for you and your paddle-craft to some of the most beautiful parts of the lakes and streams.
Several things to keep in mind – many of the businesses that cater to the paddle-and-float crowd are seasonal and affected by everything from the weather to high demand, so it is always a good idea to call ahead and make reservations.
And like anything involving the water, make sure you have all the safety gear you need – life preservers in particular. Other important items to have on your gear list include waterproof cases for cellphones, coolers and containers for food, proper footwear and clothing (and maybe a dry change of both for afterwards).
All of the businesses can help get you outfitted properly and answer any questions you may have. If you don’t own what you need, they can usually rent it to you – and in some cases it is provided at no additional cost with your boat rental.
Many of these businesses have multiple access and takeout points on the water, depending on how long you want to be out and what kinds of boating you are looking for, from lazy winding rivers to a variety of whitewater excitement.
Yak tha Creek
Located in Ashville, Yak tha Creek specializes in renting kayaks on Canoe Creek and providing drop-ins and transportation for people with their own gear. Canoe Creek is rapidly becoming one of the most popular destinations for kayakers, with miles of beautiful nature to be seen all around.
You can find Yak tha Creek on the side of the U.S. Highway 231 at the bridges near the downtown square in Ashville. The business works on a reservation basis, and access to the water is dependent on the time of the year, weather conditions and water levels. Aside from the rental fees, there are nominal fees for transporting your own boat and getting it in the water.
The best way to keep up with water conditions and availability is on their Facebook page. They can be contacted by phone at 205-612-2292.
Like most of the paddle and float rental and transportation companies, there is a waiver requirement.
Voted as one of the best kayak companies in St. Clair County by Discover St. Clair Magazine’s readers, Yak tha Creek continues to be a big tourism draw for the region.
Big Canoe Creek Outfitters
Another business that offers kayaking, plus camping and concerts, Big Canoe Creek Outfitters is located at 6545 Alabama Highway 23 in Springville.
They offer single and double kayak rentals and can shuttle your boat to the water for you.
Big Canoe Creek Outfitters is getting ready for the 2022 season, expecting to open in early May – weather permitting. You can keep up with hours and events and water conditions on their Facebook page or call 205-427-3989.
In addition to their kayak business, they have campsites on the property and play host to some great outdoor music events.
Big Canoe Creek is becoming one of the more popular destination points, so checking on availability, especially holidays and weekends, is a must.
Big Wills Outfitters
Big Wills is a full-service kayak and canoe outfitter that also offers rentals on Big Wills Creek, which feeds into Neely Henry.
Located at 2881 Wesson Gap Road, Attalla, they offer single and two-seat kayak and canoe rentals and can shuttle your own boat to the water as well.
Off season, October through March, is by appointment – on their website, bigwillsoutfitters.com, and on their Facebook page with information about rental availability and water conditions as well as information on some of the kayaks and other gear they sell. They can be reached by phone at 256-538-3226.
When the weather is right, and the water is perfect, demand for rental kayaks can be high, so they recommend calling ahead for availability and reservations.
And when it comes time to buy your own boat, for fishing or just fun, they are more than happy to make sure you get exactly the right kayak or canoe to meet your needs.
Floating Fun
Floating Fun gives you access to Choccolocco Creek, another beautiful stretch of water that feeds into the Coosa River and Logan Martin Lake.
Located in Oxford, Floating Fun specializes in tube floats down the creek, with multiple exits available.
They say you can “expect rocky shoals, some quick currents, remote beauty, and an enjoyable tubing experience.”
They have a minimum two-person, two-tube rental requirement. You start the float at their business, located at 1741 Priebes Mill Road in Oxford. They pick you up at one of the take-outs and return you to the business. While walk-ons are accepted based on tube availability, they strongly recommend making reservations – two days ahead for weekends and holidays, and they have a minimum age requirement of 5 years old.
For all the rules and any questions about availability, reservations, refunds and rainchecks, Floating Fun has a comprehensive website, floatingfun.net. They are a seasonal operation, opening the first Thursday in May and generally running through the middle of October.
They provide special cooler tubes that can carry 50 pounds of food and gear.
Choccolocco Kayak
For those looking to paddle on Choccolocco Creek, Choccolocco Kayak offers a great one-and-a-half to two-hour trip.
Also located in Oxford, Choccolocco Kayak takes you to their put-in near Cider Ridge Golf Club. The takeout is at the kayak rental facility, located across from Choccolocco Park entrance at Leon Smith Parkway and Boiling Springs Road intersection.
You can rent single and tandem kayaks (along with all the necessary gear like paddles and life jackets) or bring your own kayak. You must be at least 18 years old to rent kayaks and be at least 8 to paddle your own kayak. Children younger than 8 have to be in a tandem kayak with an adult.
Like most similar businesses, they are open seasonally and operation hours can be affected by the weather, water levels and demand. They recommend calling or texting to 256-835-7821 for additional information. They also have a Facebook page with updates on special hours, last launch times and other information.
Talladega Creek Resort
Talladega Creek is a long, lazy river that flows through much of Talladega County and offers some beautiful natural scenery. Talladega Creek Resort has campgrounds and cabins at their headquarters at 760 Lake Whitland Drive, Talladega, in addition to kayaking and tubing.
Again, the business is seasonal and dependent on water levels and weather. They require at least 24-hour notice for kayak reservations. You can rent kayaks, tubes and cooler tubes, and they have all the other gear you might need for a day on the creek. And, of course, you can bring your own gear and pay the launch fee.
They ask that you drop off all your passengers and coolers and other equipment at their launch site, 100 Cedar Springs Road, Munford, to wait while you come to the main campground office to pay and park. They will then shuttle you to from the campground to meet up with your group. Takeout is at the campgrounds.
The resort has a variety of beautiful rental cabins on the property and RV and camping spaces for people who want to make a weekend – or longer – of it. There is a two-night minimum on cabin rentals from April until November and on holidays. Single-night reservations are available during the off season. They are also a pet-friendly business.
You can find out more about their rules, hours and rates on their website, talladegacreekside.com. Their phone number is 256-362-9053 and prefer to be contacted by text. You can also follow them on Facebook for the latest updates on hours and water conditions.
GadRock
Looking for some open-water paddling on the Coosa? GadRock, located in Gadsden, is a large indoor climbing facility that also offers stand-up paddleboarding, complete with special tours Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Paddleboarding is growing in popularity and is more suitable for the calm of the lakes because, unlike canoes and kayaks, you stand on what is essentially a large surfboard and paddle your way across the water. In addition to being a great way to see the shoreline areas of the lake, its also a great way to exercise.
GadRock, 1403 Rainbow Drive, can be found online at climbgadrock.com and on their Facebook page. You can reach them by phone 256-312-8185.
It’s finally here – the long-awaited arrival of spring on the lake. While any day on the lake is a day well spent, there’s something about the days of early spring, when winter’s hues of grays and browns give way to a palette of greens and a mosaic of vibrant colors forming a stunning backdrop to the water. It’s picture perfect.
Carol A. Pappas, Editor and Publisher
The water’s up. The boats are out. Hooks and bobbers are in. And the evidence of pure enjoyment can be spotted – and heard – all around.
It’s that reawakening of activities on and around our lakes and river that tends to bring smiles a little more, a little faster and a whole lot easier.
As people head outdoors, so do events throughout the lakes region. In April, First Friday started back in downtown Gadsden, bringing thousands to its streets along the river for fun, food, music and shopping. LakeFest, the Southeast’s largest in-water boat show and festival is back at Pell City Lakeside Park, a much anticipated, much-enjoyed event on Logan Martin each year.
Pell City Chamber of Commerce’s Hometown Block Party gets under way downtown June 4 with bands, food vendors, games for the kids and plenty of shopping awaiting.
Perhaps you’d like a little more adventure. The tributaries of Logan Martin and Neely Henry have just the ticket with floating, kayaking, tubing and canoeing opportunities at places like Talladega Creek Resort, Choccolocco Kayak, Big Wills Outfitters, Big Canoe Creek Outfitters and Yak the Creek.
You can read all about these places and activities in LakeLife 24/7 Magazine®, but as usual, there’s more. Step inside the kitchen of a Logan Martin couple as they talk about their life on the lake and share a recipe or two from their very own kitchen. It’s a story you’ll savor and recipes you’ll save.
Step way back in time with Remember When, our signature historic piece set on what is now Logan Martin or Neely Henry. This one takes you all the way back to the days when Native Americans roamed these lands, rivers and creeks. Ten Islands on Neely Henry is also tales of Andrew Jackson, the Civil War and ferry boat travel.
Move on to present day and see signs of the future emerging in Lincoln on the banks of Logan Martin Lake. First, it was Lincoln’s Landing fishing park making more than a splash. It’s luring thousands of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts its way as well as hundreds of fishing tournaments – bookings well into 2024 already.
Now comes Angler’s Pointe, creating the perfect complement – a massive resort of RVs, cottages, entertainment, shopping and dining. Model cottages being built on the over 100 acres adjacent to the park already are drawing attention, and the development is seen as a game changer for Lincoln, Logan Martin and the entire region.
Of course, that’s not all you’ll find in this issue of LakeLife 24/7®. Turn the page and discover it all with us.
