Experience the magic of Gadsden on the Memorial Bridge
Story by Cherith Fluker Submitted Photos
Imagine standing on an historic 100-year-old bridge, the sun setting over the Coosa River, a glass of wine in hand and the hum of jazz music floating through the air. This is the scene at Gadsden’s Sunset Sips on the Memorial Bridge.
Scheduled for Oct.15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Downtown Gadsden Inc. hosts this intimate, laid-back event that has become a beloved tradition in the community.
DGI Director and event organizer, Kay Moore, says Sunset Sips began in 2012, inspired by the vision of creating a unique, community-centered gathering where attendees could savor wine and beer while enjoying one of Gadsden’s most picturesque spots. Held annually on the third Tuesday of October, this year’s event will mark the 12th edition, with the only break being in 2020.
“The event was originally a catered affair”, says Moore. “Sunset Sips now features light snacks, encouraging attendees to explore and dine at downtown restaurants after the event.”
Tickets for Sunset Sips are limited to just 300 to maintain an intimate atmosphere. They go on sale around Sept. 15 and may be purchased online at downtowngadsden.com or at the Downtown Gadsden Inc. office.
Additionally, you can find tickets at local favorites like The Stone Market wine shop and King’s Olive Oil. Priced at $50, each ticket includes multiple wine tastings from The Stone Market, beer from Back Forty Beer Company, and a selection of heavy hors d’oeuvres. The event is exclusively for those 21 and older.
Moore says what sets Sunset Sips apart from other community events is its serene and welcoming vibe. Unlike larger, more boisterous gatherings, Sunset Sips offers a rare chance to stroll and socialize on a historic bridge, enjoying breathtaking views that are usually reserved for passing vehicles. As one of the first events to close the bridge for an event, it has become a highly anticipated highlight of the local calendar.
Sunset Sips is more than just an evening of enjoyment; it’s a fundraiser that reinvests in downtown Gadsden. Over the years, proceeds have funded new banners, a speaker system for Broad Street, and other enhancements that beautify the Downtown Gadsden area. Local restaurants show their appreciation by offering discounts to ticket holders who choose to have dinner downtown after the event. The impact of Sunset Sips goes beyond the immediate experience. Local businesses benefit from increased foot traffic and sales, and community members come together to support and celebrate their town.
The perfect time of the year at the perfect place to enjoy company and the view
Sunset Sips on Memorial Bridge is a standout event in the Gadsden community, thanks to the incredible support from local businesses, Moore said. “Lucy Edwards, investment manager at Morgan Stanley, reached out to me to ask about sponsoring the event.” Sponsors like Morgan Stanley play a crucial role in helping cover expenses so more of the funds raised can be directed back into downtown improvements. Several local businesses also contribute various items that are raffled off during the event. To ensure the safety of attendees, police officers are situated at both ends of the bridge throughout the event.
From the stunning sunset views to the friendly camaraderie, Sunset Sips leaves a lasting impression on attendees. “We aim to keep the event small and special to retain its unique charm,” Moore said. “That’s what keeps past participants returning year after year to relive the magic.”
Whether you’re a long-time Gadsden resident or a visitor looking for a memorable evening, Sunset Sips on the Memorial Bridge offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Tickets are on sale Sept. 15 through Oct. 14. All tickets must be purchased before the day of the event. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit downtowngadsden.com
When Erin and Brian Mooney opened Tre Luna Catering and later Tre Luna Bar & Kitchen, their motto became “bringing our table to yours.” That’s exactly what they plan to do when they cater the Evening at Harman Castle event on Nov. 8.
Tre Luna will be making this event an affair to remember as they cater a progressive, three-course dinner crafted by Mooney, “while enjoying complimentary valet service and immersive live music on every floor,” the invitation says. The dinner features an open bar with wine and signature cocktails and an opportunity to explore the castle’s exclusive amenities. RSVP required.
The Mooneys opened Tre Luna Catering in 2014 and as their customer and fan base grew, they opened Tre Luna Bar & Kitchen in Hoover in 2019. The focus is on providing simple, fresh, and house-made food for all of their customers, whether at the restaurant or at weddings, parties, fundraisers and other events.
Brian, the executive chef, was born in New York but got his start in the hospitality industry while working the grill in the summers at his father’s poolside bar in Boca Raton, Florida. His father sold the bar to two Italian brothers, and Brian’s passion for food and Italian cooking grew under their tutelage.
Erin, who has a passion for serving others, comes by it naturally. Born in Selma, she was raised in Birmingham and grew up in the food and beverage industry. Her mom’s side of the family owned an Italian restaurant while her father’s side had a butcher shop and grocery store.
The two met when Brian was working at a restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, and they moved to Birmingham so he could work for Frank Stitt at Bottega. That’s when he fell in love with Southern cooking and food.
When we asked the Mooneys to share one of their favorite recipes, one “simple and delicious” dish that they enjoy at home as well as serving to others immediately came to mind.
“We picked the Baked Oysters because they represent how much Brian and I love to entertain and share food,” Erin said, adding that the dish was inspired by her love of oysters and Brian’s love for Italian-inspired cooking and fresh seafood.
“When we entertain at our home, baked oysters are always a staple,” she said.
“We also order them with friends at the restaurant.”
Baked Oysters
Ingredients
¼ cup pancetta
1 cup blanched, squeezed spinach, chopped
2 Tbsp. finely chopped shallots
½ cup parmesan
1 pint heavy cream
¼ tsp. kosher salt
¼ tsp. pepper
6 fresh oyster
¼ cup bread crumbs, toasted
3 Tbsp. butter
1 lemon
Directions:
Place pancetta in a small skillet and cook over medium heat until browned and crisp, 7 to 8 minutes. Transfer pancetta and drippings to a medium mixing bowl.
In a small pot, simmer the heavy cream and reduce until the cream starts to thicken, about 5-8 min on medium high heat.
Stir in spinach, shallots, and parmesan into the cream and season with salt and pepper. Set aside and let cool.
Use an oyster knife to shuck the oysters, sliding the knife under connective muscle to loosen the oyster from the shell. Top oysters with pancetta-spinach mixture, Cook in oven on broil on the lowest rack until golden brown and bubbling, about 5 minutes. Serve immediately. Use lemon garnish and to finish.
On the banks of Neely Henry Lake, Greensport Marina and Campground transformed into a thrilling rodeo for two days of family fun people around these parts won’t soon forget.
Broken Arrow Rodeo Productions put on quite a show, wowing the crowds with non-stop action.
Sponsors and a host of community volunteers and organizations came together in support of a laudable cause, the Ashville High School Future Farmers of America.
Horses, lassos, cowboys and more against the backdrop of Neely Henry and the mountains formed a stunning scene that are now etched in memories.
Our own Mackenzie Free got in on the action, capturing in photos the moments that defined just how special this event was.
But don’t take our word for it. Check out these reviews from those who experienced it in the moment:
“This was a lot of fun! This is what we need on Neely Henry Lake. Fun by land or water!”
“Had a blast. Can’t believe how y’all pulled this together. Really professional event. Can’t wait till next year.”
“We loved it and rode our boat over for both nights. The food trucks were great, the rodeo was great and enjoyed listening to the music. Thank you for putting this event on. Also, a congratulations to my daughter placing 2nd place in the barrel racing.”
And that was just a sampling of firsthand accounts of Rodeo and Rhythm’s debut.
But perhaps the best quote of all comes from Greensport itself, announcing the rodeo’s expected return: “We hope you loved it just as much as we did, and that you’ll be back for next year’s action, too!”
Thank you, Dave and Stepanie Evans. Job well done!
New twists on old-fashioned fun coming to Logan Martin this Halloween
Story by Paul South Submitted Photos
Boo Bash is back.
Pell City’s frightfully fun and festive fleet of Halloween happiness returns to Logan Martin Lake on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
And in 2024, for the first time in its three-year history, Boo Bash has partnered with a local non-profit, the Logan Martin Lake Protection Association. Proceeds from this year’s bash will help provide solar-powered buoys to the association. Those buoys will help make Logan Martin safer, by marking especially shallow water or dangerous hazards. It’s called “Boo Bash for BOO-ees.”
“These buoys, (or BOOees as we call them), mark dangerous areas on the lake that could harm people operating personal watercraft, skiing or tubing,” said Boo Bash co-founder Kelli Lasseter said. “Additionally, they are environmentally friendly since they run off solar power, not batteries. Batteries are not kind to the environment.”
The decision to partner with the association came from the Boo Bash committee in response to survey responses from the lake community after the event’s “astounding” success in 2023. Topping the survey: a nonprofit partnership to raise funds for a local nonprofit.
It’s important to note that Boo Bash is funded through monetary and in-kind donations and even with organizers investing out-of-pocket money.
“In thinking about how quickly Boo Bash is growing. We talked about it last spring and decided if we partner with a non-profit, it’s a win for everybody if it’s done well,” said Lasseter, a co-creator of Boo Bash along with Sonya Hubbard. “Hopefully, it will be around for generations of Boo Bashers to come.”
Logan Martin Lake Protection Association President Neal Stephenson was approached by Jeff Thompson of Pell City’s Center for Education and the Performing Arts (CEPA) about teaming with Boo Bash. Stephenson was familiar with the event and its impact.
“It sounded like a good opportunity for us,” Stephenson said. “Obviously, it’s lake-related, so we started having conversations with them, and we ended up doing a partnership.”
The solar buoys are one of the LMLPA’s standing initiatives.
“It’s a safety feature for the lake and the people who use the lake,” Stephenson said. “It’s probably one of our most popular projects.”
The association undertakes other initiatives, including lifts for people with disabilities to improve accessibility, water quality monitoring, youth education programs, such as “Learn to Cast,” and other work.
The buoy project is LMLPA’s “most notable” project,” Stephenson said.
Along with the buoys, purchased at an estimated cost of $800 each, Boo Bash hopes to raise enough money to honor sponsors, volunteers and participants with a post-event party, something it’s been unable to do since its inception.
And this year for the first time, Boo Bash will take place on a Saturday, where it will compete with the Alabama-South Carolina TV game in Tuscaloosa with its 11 a.m. kickoff.
“The weather and moving it to Saturday are probably going to present the biggest challenges,” Lasseter said. “Nobody wants to go up against an Alabama home game, but moving Boo to Saturday has been recommended by many people for the last two years. So, we are testing it out this year to see if it’s going to work. If not, we will go back to Sunday in 2025.
In the event of bad weather, the event will be moved to Sunday, Oct. 13.
By the numbers, Boo Bash is wildly popular. Consider:
In 2023, Boo Bash registered 1,000 dockside trick-or-treaters, an increase of more than 800 in a rain-soaked 2022. Fifty pets also joined the fun.
106 piers were decorated for the 2023 event to welcome the armada of trick or treaters.
125 volunteers contributed at least 40 hours each to the event, an estimated $160,000 in estimated labor.
Families who festooned their docks in 2023 spent an estimated $200 each on treats, costumes and decorations, meaning an estimated $21,200 boost for the local economy.
While Boo Bash is partnering with the LMLPA, the lake association is also partnering with Pell City Parks and Recreation to create the first-ever “Boo Stop in the Park,” featuring food trucks, a prize drawing and other community partners offering swag and of course, candy.
“This event is four hours long, so (the park) is a great spot to get out and stretch your legs before heading out for round two,” Lasseter said.
As for the LMLPA partnership, Lasseter said it was a seamless fit.
“The partnership wasn’t a challenge at all,” she said. “We knew immediately that Boo Bash and LMLPA would be the ideal partnership as we share each other’s commitment to safety and keeping our environment clean.”
Stephenson agreed, calling the Boo Bash-LMLPA teamwork “a natural fit. The LMLPA has an estimated 100 active members.
“Our mission statement is to advocate and promote the general welfare of Logan Martin Lake, and that of the homeowners and businesses in this area,” Stephenson said. “The Boo Bash event has grown to be a whole lake event. And the Logan Martin Lake Protection Association is here to serve all lake lovers, everyone, no matter which side of the lake they’re on, or which location on the lake they’re on. We’re here to do our best to advocate for the safety and welfare of the lake. We see Boo Bash as a great partnership going forward.”
Boo Bash 2024 is presented by Platinum sponsor, The Tiki Hut at Rivers Edge Marina. Boo Bash organizers are also seeking additional sponsors. Lasseter made the case.
“Given the amount of revenue and visibility Boo provides, it is my hope that people will want to sponsor the event,” she said. “The visibility and the financial impact this event has for our lake is beyond what we imagined.”
Boo Bash bottom line aside, the event that may be seen as the unofficial start of the holiday season on the lake, is at its heart, about fun and bringing the lake community together in creative ways.
Consider Steve and Lisa Young’s 2023 dock decoration, featuring a coffin with a life-sized faux dearly departed uncle. As Boo Bashers were invited to “pay their respects,” Steve, dressed as Betelgeuse, pushed a button and a hydraulic system made the “corpse” sit up.
“It was hysterical,” Lasseter recalled. “Every single person on the lake (who participates) goes out of their way to create a unique experience for the Boo Bashers.”
Stephenson and Lasseter say that Boo Bash says something about the nature of the Logan Martin community. Earlier this year, locals hosted “Christmas in July,” to benefit the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind.
As someone who has either visited or lived on the lake for decades, Stephenson believes Boo Bash says something about the community, giving it a family-friendly community event good for all ages.
“(Boo Bash) says a lot about the people who live on the lake and around this area that they really appreciate the opportunities that they have. They appreciate all the activities that are presented, Boo Bash being one of them. We hope that the LMLPA will be a point source for information about the lake and increase our membership so we can grow as Boo Bash has grown.”
Boo Bash and the LMLPA, like other organizations, are rooted in love for Logan Martin.
“The people on the lake care deeply about the lake community,” Lasseter said. “They go out of the way to support the resources that we have, the organizations that we have that provide valuable services to our most vulnerable lake residents.”
She added, “These people are some of the finest people I’ve ever met. People on Logan Martin Lake truly love the lake. They love everything about it, especially the people. Being able to do, not just for the lake, but the surrounding areas, is just something that is incredibly important. It’s probably the number one shared value on the lake.
“At the end of it, it all boils down to, ‘Do unto others. It really is.”
A simple idea to create an event that gives back to the community while giving families something fun to do has blossomed into the Lakeside Live Musicfest, which returns to Lakeside Park in September.
The Five16 Foundation hosts this annual music festival and car show at Pell City Lakeside Park. Event Director Casey Cambron says the foundation expects this year’s event to impact The Saint Clair Children’s Advocacy Center (The Children’s Place) in meaningful ways.
Now in its fourth year, Lakeside Live embodies the Five16 Foundation’s mission of “shining our light through fundraising, service, and good works.” Cambron expects thousands of people to flock to the park for a day of music and family fun. In turn, they will be helping others.
Since its inception, the festival has evolved significantly. Originally held in November, the event was moved to mid-September to avoid the cold weather, finding its sweet spot on the third Saturday of the month.
From muscle cars to VWs, the car show brings it all
Generously supported by sponsors like Buffalo Rock Pepsi, this year’s festival is slated for Sept. 21 with gates opening at 10 a.m. The event will go on until approximately 8 p.m. with a variety of activities planned throughout the day.
Lakeside Live exudes a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere. It attracts a diverse crowd, with smiling faces, kids playing games and families enjoying food from local vendors. As the name implies, music is the main ingredient.
Cambron announced that this year’s music headliner is The Spin Doctors, a popular American alternative rock band. “We’re excited to host The Spin Doctors this year, but we are also very excited about our opening band,” says Cambron. The festival opener will be Sand Rock, a band made up of Pell City High School students. Other notable acts are The Greg White Band, Deputy 5, The Leverton Brothers, The Wingnuts, and more.
Inspired by other local events, Lakeside Live stands out for its unique blend of activities. In addition to an entertaining musical lineup, the event also offers an impressive car show with hundreds of cars on display, most of which are from the St. Clair County area.
The car show itself is quite a draw, showcasing a wide range of vehicles from high-end cars to bicycles. Custom handmade awards are presented to winners, adding a personal touch to the event.
Over 100 vendors and food trucks and a variety of children’s activities will be available for attendees to enjoy. About 90% of the vendors are local. While there is no charge to browse the car show, items at vendor booths and food trucks are available for purchase.
Rides and more
One highlight of the event is the Battle of the Badges, a spirited competition between the fire and police departments. This competition features an obstacle course, tug-of-war and other challenges. Cambron described Battle of the Badges as an “entertaining interaction between local first responders that allows the community to engage with them in a fun way.”
Having won two of the three years of the Battle of the Badges, the Pell City Fire Department is eager to challenge the reigning champions, the Pell City Police Department.
In addition to benefitting the Children’s Advocacy Center, proceeds from Lakeside Live Musicfest also contribute to various local causes, such as the police and fire departments, the local school system, children’s organizations, and more.
“We are so thankful for our generous sponsors like Buffalo Rock Pepsi and Lakeside Boathouse, who have believed in our dream from day one,” said Cambron. He also credited fellow board members, Pell City High School Wrestling and other volunteers who give of their time throughout the year and on event day to make Lakeside Live Musicfest a success.
Looking ahead, the goal is to continue growing the festival, maintaining its community-focused spirit while expanding its reach and impact. By continuously improving and adapting to feedback, Cambron hopes to make each year’s event better than the last, ultimately creating a lasting legacy of community support and enjoyment.
Editor’s Note: For more information and to apply as a vendor, visit the festival’s website at lakesideliveshow.com. Vendor applications are accepted until Sept. 1, 2024.
Story by Carol Pappas Photos by Mackenzie Free, Graham Hadley and submitted
Move over pontoons, bass boats and other lake and river-faring vessels. There’s a couple of new watercrafts navigating their way around these parts this summer.
On Neely Henry, that distant tune reminiscent of ice cream trucks and days gone by is actually coming from an ice cream boat, which launches and regularly ‘patrols’ Neely Henry Lake.
On the Coosa River in Gadsden, you’ll find a parade of dragons, ducks and swans floating by at Coosa Landing – a fleet of pedal boats the city has launched for renting this summer.
Greg and Peggie Watson offering tasty memories on the lake
The ice cream boat is the creation of Greg and Peggie Watson, Ashville residents who saw a need and filled it. Greg is a retired sheriff’s investigator, and Peggie works for the district attorney’s office.
“There really isn’t much on Henry Neely as far as food, etc., unless you go to Southside or Gadsden,” explained Greg. “We know it gets hot on the lake, and people need some relief. So, we decided to provide a unique and fun way to help them with ice cream. That’s where the ice cream boat idea came from.”
The boat’s 11-foot ice cream flag is hard to miss. So is the ice cream truck song that plays continuously. Boaters and those on dockside have been lining up for a tasty respite from the summer heat.
“People on the docks can hear us coming,” Greg said. “We have met some really great people. We had some people that actually messaged and asked for our location this last weekend. We were near Southside. They came from all the way from Ragland Dam and tracked us down.
“They said they wanted the ice cream and were looking for us all day. They also had a furry friend with them that devoured the pup cup ice cream from us.”
Hershey ice cream is the main provider for their ice cream. They use real cream. “So, the taste is by far the best out of all the ice cream in my opinion,” Greg noted. “We do have another vendor where we get some of the specialty ice cream like Batman, Tweety Bird, and Kung Fu panda. So, it’s the people’s choice on what they want. The funny part is that more adults than kids want the ice cream.”
Meanwhile, Coosa Landing’s new pedal boats are getting quite a workout as are the people who power them. Each boat fits up to five people, and they pedal their way to fun in the sun on the water.
“We are excited to offer families and friends something fun and safe to do together this summer while enjoying the great outdoors in Gadsden,” said Mayor Craig Ford.
You can rent the boats at Coosa Landing bait shop from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You must be at least 18 years old and provide identification. Life jackets are required, and the city has some available. The rental fee is $20 up to one hour. For more hours, it costs $15 after the initial $20.
St. Clair County Farmers Market in Pell City is a growers’ market, meaning it is grown locally. The market itself has grown locally, too, necessitating a move to Lakeside Park this year.
The market moved from the Avondale Walking Track to Lakeside Park in the parking lot by the boat launch. The market got underway June 5 and will be open each Wednesday, weather permitting, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the summer.
Veggie Bucks for the kids are back thanks to community sponsors. Children ages 5-12 can come by the St. Clair County Extension tent to receive a $3 voucher to spend on the fruits or vegetables of their choice.
St. Clair County Farmers Market is an effort by the St. Clair County Extension Service.
If you have plans scheduled for June 1, you might want to reconsider them. That date is reserved for Pell City’s largest event of the year – Hometown Block Party.
Taking place from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. in historic downtown Pell City, this annual event is expected to draw around 18,000 people from Pell City and surrounding areas.
Organized by the Greater Pell City Chamber of Commerce, the Hometown Block Party serves as a platform to showcase local businesses and highlight the talents of local artisans, musicians, craftsmen and more.
Crowds gather for live entertainment and fun for the whole family
According to Chamber Director Urainah Gladwell, the 2024 edition of the event will feature over 100 vendors offering an array of items, including T-shirts, candy, tumblers, local art, furniture, home decor, jewelry and more.
Local restaurants and chefs will have delicious food and drink items for sale, too.
Several nonprofit organizations will man booths at the event to share information, raise funds, and give away fun prizes. It is seen as an opportunity for the community to learn about the different nonprofits in the area and gain insight into the services they provide.
“The Pell City Hometown Block Party was actually started in 1999” as a class project of Leadership Pell City, the forerunner to Leadership St. Clair. “So, this is our 25th year hosting this event, and it has continued to grow over the years,” said Glidewell. “People of all ages can find something they enjoy at the block party.”
The block party’s mission is a basic one. “We simply want to bring people together for a great time,” she said. This free outdoor festival is an ideal setting for people to enjoy live music, connect with neighbors, and take pride in the community.
Downtown streets are closed to vehicle traffic, opening the entire area up for this year’s festivities, which boast four music stages featuring a variety of music: rock, country, R&B and a “Homegrown” stage featuring local schools and church groups. Bands play on stages strategically set at downtown intersections around the courthouse square, city hall and Cogswell Avenue.
There will also be a separate kids’ area complete with carnival rides and games. “Foam Zone Parties of Odenville was a big hit at last year’s event. All the kids, and the parents, had a blast,” Glidewell said. Reflecting on last year’s success, she added, “We are hoping they will come back again this year.”
Confirmed food vendors include The Main Squeeze, Q&A Concessions, Down South Catering and several others.
And don’t worry, the fun isn’t just reserved for the kids. There are plenty of entertaining activities lined up for adults, too. “This event is for everyone,” Glidewell noted.
Back by popular demand, the Hometown Block Party’s car show will make its grand return for this year’s festivities. It will feature an impressive lineup of over 80 vehicles.
“I love seeing how much joy this event brings to our community,” Glidewell said. “Everywhere you look, people are having fun, smiling, interacting, and in line to get some delicious treats. Everyone looks happy.”
Vendor applications are still being accepted until May 20. Those interested can visit www.pellcitychamber.com for a vendor application. The deadline for vendor applications for early bird pricing ($50) is May 12. May 13-20, the price will be $75 for a booth.
Artisans throughout the Southeast, laden with wares ranging from handmade mustache cups to molasses, are heading to Gadsden this spring for a favorite, southern tradition – Art on the Rocks at Noccalula Falls May 4-5.
This semi-annual event is a celebration of beautifully created, handmade arts and crafts of pottery, paintings, jewelry, jams, jellies, candles, soaps, dream catchers, crochet, metal works, wood carvings, and, well, rocks.
Yes, actual art on actual rocks!
Crowds from all over keep returning to Art on the Rocks
“That’s right,” said Laura Gladden, park administrative assistant and event coordinator. “One of our vendors gets large rocks and paints very detailed delicate pictures on them. They’re beautiful. I have one in my house.”
According to Gladden, products offered during the two-day event are as individual as the vendors themselves. “We have a gentleman who paints really big pieces of artwork – so big, that people can actually put it on the side of a barn. Another one works in 3-D art.
When she talks about paintings, she notes that each artist has his or her own unique style. “One person will paint only animals. Beautiful paintings of animals. Another paints only landscapes with colors that pop out at you.”
Gladden has been with Art on the Rocks in its current incarnation since 2019. That’s the year the event returned to the park, after about a 25-year hiatus.
Long time vendor and event participant, Tina Pendley, who, along with her husband David, owns Sweet Tea Pottery, was instrumental in bringing Art on the Rocks back to Gadsden and Noccalula Falls.
Sweet Tea draws its name from its roots. “We wanted something that clearly said the South and what is more southern than sweet tea?,” she asked.
She recalls the historic roots of the festival as well. The event actually got its start back in 1958 as a project of the Gadsden Women’s Club and art-loving member, Mrs. Frank (Merci) Stowers.
Visitors browse the many vendor stalls at the Falls
“Mrs. Stowers, loved to travel,” said Pendley, “and she loved art. After attending an outdoor event in Texas, she brought the idea to the women’s club about having an outdoor art exhibit. The members loved the idea.”
So, she continued, “they started the planning in January, and held the first Art on the Rocks on May 18, 1958. It was a huge success and continued to be successful for 25 years. Eventually, it shut down for about 25 years.”
At some point during the event’s early history, it had come under sponsorship of the Gadsden Art Association, of which the Pendleys were members. She remembers it was at one of the organization’s 2018 meetings when the topic of Art on the Rocks resurfaced.
“We were talking about a fundraiser,” said Pendley, “and I asked the question had they ever considered bringing back Art on the Rocks, and they had not, but they said they would consider it if I would get some information.”
That go-ahead was all Pendley needed to get the ball rolling. She discovered that Noccalula Falls officials would “love” to have an arts and crafts show but didn’t know how to get vendors.
Noccalula Falls is the perfect setting for Art on the Rocks
It was a perfect match. The Pendleys knew how to get vendors because they worked these events with their pottery, but they didn’t know how to set up the park. It was the proverbial marriage made in heaven.
“I met with Christina Richardson (supervisor, Noccalula Falls),” said Pendley. “I knew if we worked together, we could make this happen. She said we’ve got a great crew here at the Falls, and we can make it work. So, I went back to the Art Association and brought back a lot of information about how we can work together with Noccalula Falls.”
And they voted to return Art on the Rocks to its former home at Noccalula.
“It’s just been a great success,” she added. “We’ve gone from having just one show a year to two shows. It’s been a great event to add to the community.”
Gladden agrees. “I love it. It’s my favorite event to work up here. It’s really got a great energy and vibe from not only the people attending but also from all our vendors. I’ve heard many of them say it’s their favorite show to work.
For Pendley, the biggest drawing card for folks to attend Art on the Rocks is the venue itself. “It’s beautiful here. We’ve got not only the waterfall but the green spaces as well. And there’s something for everybody from the train rides to the petting zoo.”
And yes, there will be plenty of food said Gladden. Vendors will serve everything from blooming onions to funnel cakes and everything in between.
Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for kids/seniors/military. Park season passes will be accepted. Pets are welcome everywhere but near the animal habitat. Vendors may register through April 15.
First Fridays are on their way back and not a moment too soon, for most. When Broad Street overflows with crowds, cars and choruses of entertainment, you’ll know it’s the place to be the first Friday in April and every first Friday thereafter until October.
Talk about a growing success story. First Friday is legendary, regularly drawing from multiple communities throughout the region and states all around the Southeast.
Presented by Downtown Gadsden Inc., it began in 2006 as an effort to bring more people to the heart of the city with the aim of promoting what downtown businesses have to offer.
Vendors, entertainment and of course, the car show – something for everyone
A classic car show was the nucleus in those early years, generating bigger and bigger crowds. Entertainment and a showcasing of downtown stores, restaurants, coffee shops and bars gradually combined for a perfect evening out for the whole family.
And that’s what is in store April 5 when First Friday gets underway once more. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” said Kay Moore, executive director of Downtown Gadsden. Just grow it.
Entertainment of all genres will be on 2nd, 3rd and 4th streets and possibly, the 600 block. The sounds of Jazz, R & B, Rock ’n Roll, Bluegrass, Line Dancing and the Cowboy Church Band will fill those streets and so will crowds gathering to hear their favorites.
Live music in Downtown Gadsden
While downtown, you might take a look at some new additions as part of the Main Street program that Downtown Gadsden is investing a great deal of effort. It is an 18-foot kinetic wood sculpture, which comes courtesy of a project envisioned by Moore and spearheaded by Mario Gallardo, Gadsden State art instructor and director of the Walnut Gallery along with Gadsden Museum of Art Director Ray Wetzel.
Titled “Up from the Depths”, was funded through a collaboration between DGI, Walnut Gallery, Gadsden Museum of Art, the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, The Chamber, Greater Gadsden Area Tourism, and the City of Gadsden with additional support from the Alabama State Council on the Arts.
It is fabricated in brushed aluminum and features abstract, fish-like forms that turn and shift as the wind blows. They chose the site due to its close proximity to the Coosa River, and Phillip Williams, the property owner, agreed to host the sculpture long-term. It’s all about returning downtown to its days of grandeur and from the looks of it, the investment by all involved is paying sizable dividends for downtown Gadsden.
Editor’s note:For more, go to downtowngadsden.com.
