Smoke on the Falls

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.”

Tony Skiroock and son Daniel with the winnings

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 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-n-Tooters 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, Bar-B-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.”nity,” 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.

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.

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.

Architectural rendering of aerial view of the complex

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.”

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.”

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.

Covered tables, walkways and green space are part of the plans

“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 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.”

On the Water: Docks and Shoreline 2025

More than a place to park your boat

It doesn’t seem so long ago that docks and piers were for storing boats, casting fishing lines and as a practice platform for kids who dreamed of belly-buster dives as an Olympic sport.

But 2025’s piers and docks are bigger and can be designed to be another entertainment space for waterfront homeowners.

They aren’t your grandparents’ docks anymore.

Mackey Docks

And from an economic perspective, trends in the industry include not only traditional treated lumber. PVC and the use of composite decking materials “are providing the best long-term investment for the homeowner.

Treated wood is not lasting as long as it used to, making homeowners switch to “a better option,” said Eric Mackey, owner of Mackey Docks in Ragland.

New treated, long life, low maintenance wood makes for ideal pilings. “I’ve been able to find a great source for the pilings that support the whole dock and also framing options on treatment that will make the docks last a very, very long time.”

There are also a variety of options to jazz up your dock. Personal watercraft/kayak ports make it easier to get in and out of the water. Aluminum dock ladders can also take on the colors of your favorite teams, Mackey said.

Other options include flip up seats, benches and stools that attach to the dock without taking up much room. It’s the same story for kayak and paddleboard racks that attach to the dock.

Dock bumpers also protect boats from damage from rough weather and water as well as bad drivers.

For Joey Fortenberry, who along with his cousin, Jodi, owns Marine Worx in Gadsden, the commitment is to quality.

“We just build good stuff,” he said. “Our work stands out from everybody else. There’s more craftsmanship.”

Double-deckers are becoming a hot item in 2025, Fortenberry said.

“They’ve been around for a long time, but they’re getting more popular in our area,” he said.

The new composite materials, like Owens-Corning’s WEARDECK decking, are  wood-free material that stays cool, even on the most sizzling summer days.

“It’s the only one that I know of that you can put on the water, and it’s got a cooling technology, and it just doesn’t get hot,” Fortenberry said. “I’m promoting it highly because it’s so good.”

Decks can range in price from $40,000 to $180,000.

Boat lift on Unique Waterfronts dock

Marine Worx also builds or bolsters protective seawalls, particularly in the late fall and winter, when Alabama Power lowers lake levels on Logan Martin and Neely Henry.  As every waterfront homeowner knows, those seawalls protect against property erosion.

“Every five years, they really drop it (the water level). That’s when we get a lot of seawall requests. It gets really crazy, and we only have about a month to do it. We’re working six, seven days a week that time of year trying to get all those done.”

While seawall materials may not change from year to year, there have been changes in technology.

“We use an erosion cloth behind the walls. We put gravel and the drains in, and we use tie backs (an anchor point to make the wall more secure).”

Some dock builders have expanded their businesses. Unique Waterfronts now does homebuilding, clearing property and also works with the Federal Emergency Management Agency in disaster relief,  according to Chelsea Isbell.

“We’re really excited about growing and expanding the company and having it more like a one-stop place for people wanting a new house, a pool house, a boat house … We’ve been blessed with work and have been able to expand our business.”

Like other area dock builders, Unique Waterfronts uses composite materials, and it also builds double deckers, like the Castle House Air B&B at Logan Martin’s Alpine Bay area. Unique Waterfronts uses the Trex Brand of composite material. As for seawalls, the company uses GeoStone, as well as wood and other materials.

The company also offers a variety of options and strives to live up to its name. “We want every project to be unique,” Isbell said.

Shoreline Creations

At Shoreline Creations, Margaret Isom is optimistic about the future. Waterfront populations are growing, which means seemingly boundless opportunities for new construction and restoration.

As far as trends, she looks to consumers. “We’re seeing educated clients who are value and budget-focused,” she said. Customers are also looking to alternative materials for dock construction, like composite and PVC decking.

“While both composite and PVC decking are low maintenance options, the key difference is that PVC decking is made entirely from plastic, offering superior longevity and resistance to temperature fluctuations.”

For Xtreme Docks owner Daniel Okonski, things are looking up – literally.

“We have a lot of new things in the new year,” he said. “But the biggest thing for us is we’re starting to go up. You can have the lower half of your dock for boats and stuff, and we’re adding platforms up top that you can actually use for entertaining. It’s a really neat concept. Basically you can end up with 2,400 square feet on the lake. It depends on where you live, but most of the time you have 1,200 square feet.”

But beyond construction, Xtreme offers jumping platforms and dock hammocks that give kind of a catamaran feel. Hammocks are custom made for Xtreme.

With an aging population, accessibility is an important factor. Xtreme offers lifts that make life easier for older lake residents or residents and visitors with disabilities.

While he uses traditional treated wood and aluminum in construction, as well as Trex composite decking, Okonski, it seems, has an eye on the future of docks and piers. And that future is vertical.

As an aside, he uses his own deck as an exhibit for potential customers. “Take the dock and turn it into an entertaining spot.”

The dock as more than a place to store boats may be sign that the waterfront communities have emerged from the pandemic and are returning as a happening place to be as it was in the early days of Logan Martin and Neely Henry.

“If you think about it, people are entertaining more,” Okonski said. “The lake is becoming a hot spot again like it was in the 60s and 70s.  There were hotels and restaurants, everything. And I feel like it’s getting back that way.”

Downtown Gadsden

Thriving at the Heart of the City

Story by Cherith Fluker
Submitted and staff photos

When you stroll down Broad Street in Downtown Gadsden, it’s hard to believe that just a decade ago, this bustling area was a far cry from the vibrant, award-winning downtown district it is today.

Thanks to a blend of vision, determination and a little bit of magic, Downtown Gadsden has been transformed into a regional destination – drawing visitors from across the Southeast and beyond.

Kay Moore, the director of Downtown Gadsden Inc., has been a key player in the area’s revitalization, helping guide the transformation of downtown into what it is today.

One of the pivotal turning points for Downtown Gadsden was the opening of Back Forty Beer Company in 2009. Jason Wilson, a Gadsden native, made the decision to return to his roots and start a craft brewery in his hometown. The decision not only marked a new era for Gadsden but also changed the course of downtown’s future.

According to Moore, “Back Forty was the spark that ignited everything. Jason didn’t just bring craft beer; he brought an audience.”

First Fridays are a huge draw

Back Forty’s success became an anchor for the downtown area. It attracted a crowd of craft beer enthusiasts, some from as far away as China, where the company once shipped beer. The brewery is a stop on the rapidly growing Craft Beer Trail – a route that highlights craft breweries. Even more significant, Moore points out, was Wilson’s advocacy for changes to local laws to make Gadsden more business-friendly, further paving the way for other entrepreneurs to invest in the city.

Along with the opening of Back Forty, Moore credits downtown’s First Friday event with drawing more people to the area. In January 2006, local business owner Sylvia Smith launched the first First Friday event with a simple goal in mind: to bring more foot traffic into her store, the Stone Market. Little did she know, it would become a cornerstone of downtown Gadsden’s cultural and economic revival.

From April to October, every First Friday draws crowds from all over. “We transform Broad Street into a big celebration with food, music and community spirit,” Moore said. “We close off the streets from Broad Street to 1st Street, and attendees can enjoy everything from classic cars to local entertainment to food trucks.” Moore emphasized that these events are not just about fun – they also drive business to over a dozen downtown restaurants and vendors.

“We’ve had people attend a First Friday event and move to Gadsden because of it,” Moore recalls. “One couple bought a house on the river after attending a First Friday event.” The strong sense of community and the lively atmosphere have proven to be powerful attractions for both residents and visitors alike.

Today, Downtown Gadsden boasts an impressive mix of businesses. They each add their own charm to the area. There are over a dozen restaurants that offer diverse dining options, including everything from pizza parlors to upscale eateries. There are also boutiques and antique stores, an olive oil store, a cigar bar, a yarn shop and beauty salons and spas.

The downtown area also has a strong cultural presence. The Mary G. Harden Center for Cultural Arts and the Gadsden Museum of Art and History are both located downtown and offer a variety of events and exhibits.

Moore is particularly excited about the cultural scene’s growth in Downtown Gadsden, saying, “We’re working hard to be more artsy.” Outdoor art installations, such as a kinetic sculpture, and sidewalk art displays have helped cement Gadsden’s reputation as an up-and-coming cultural destination.

Notably, downtown has also become a great place to live. When Moore started in her role, there were just 13 lofts available in the area; today, there are 34, with 25 more planned in the old Sears building. “It takes a good mix to have a successful downtown,” Moore says, referring to the delicate balance of living, dining, shopping and entertainment options that keep the district thriving.

But the revitalization of Downtown Gadsden isn’t just about buildings and businesses, it’s about creating experiences that people want to return to. A prime example is the Sunset Sips event, the largest of its kind in the area, offering an evening of local wine, craft beer and live music.

The Chili Cookoff held every February has become a major draw, attracting 30 to 35 chili teams and crowds eager to taste the best of the region’s culinary creations.

Another fan favorite is the St. Patrick’s Pub Crawl, which has quickly grown into a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike.

Downtown’s cookin’!

One of the most innovative additions to downtown’s landscape is the series of ballot bins designed to encourage people not to litter. These yellow boxes, inspired by a system in London, allow people to “vote” with their cigarette butts in fun downtown elections aimed at making improvements to the area.

The initiative not only helps keep the streets cleaner but also adds a unique, interactive art installation for pedestrians to enjoy. It’s a creative way to engage the community while promoting environmental responsibility, all while making the downtown experience more enjoyable.

As Moore reflects on the success of the downtown revitalization, she shares an insight that sums up the spirit of the movement: “If your downtown is strong, it’s going to positively impact the city. Downtown is the heart of the city. People love to come downtown. If you give people somewhere to live, shop, eat and play, they’ll come to the city.” It’s clear that Gadsden’s leaders have embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly.

For Moore, it’s about more than just making downtown look nice. “If your heart’s not beating, you’re dead,” she says, emphasizing that a thriving downtown is key to a thriving city.

The ongoing revitalization is a testament to the fact that with a mix of vision, leadership, and community spirit, any downtown can come alive again.

Front of the boat

Love of fishing deepens father & son bond

Story by Roxann Edsall
Photos by Mackenzie Free

Zeke Gossett has loved fishing as long as he can remember. A smile spreads across dad Curtis’ face as he tells of Zeke watching him get ready for tournaments when the toddler was just two years old. “He’d watch me get ready and if I didn’t take him, he was at the window all day waiting on me to come back home.”

By the time he was six years old, Zeke was soaking in every bit of information he could on fishing – the conditions and variables that make an angler successful.

At that time, Curtis would watch him and challenge him, insisting that he fish in the current, not in the easier flat water. “He struggled because you have to use certain angles to make different baits work correctly,” explains Curtis. “He’d cast and cast. I’d watch him a while. Then I’d ask him if he wanted me to show him how to do it. When he was just six, I took him out with me, and he rolled that spinner bait across that stump, and he caught one. It gave him the confidence he needed.”

From that point on, Zeke got to fish in the back of the boat with his dad in many tournaments. “One of my earliest memories is when we used to fish club tournaments,” recounts Zeke. “I was probably eight years old. He could have fished with anyone, but he chose to fish with me. He was so much better, but it was him and me together.”

Father and son share fish stories

They were competitive then, just as they are now. “We kept the fish separate,” Zeke remembers. “We were kind of fishing against each other, even on the same team.”

From the moment you meet these two, you can feel the close bond they share. Curtis is intensely proud of his son, who has gone on to become a professional B.A.S.S. angler. The pride is evident when he brings in the six-inch-thick binder with photos and laminated clippings heralding the achievements his son has earned on his fishing journey.

“I got serious about fishing when I was about 10,” says Zeke. Beginning the next year, the focus paid off. He’s been reeling in trophies since he won his first tournament at age 11 – first place in the B.A.S.S. Alabama Junior Bassmaster Tournament for his age division and second place overall. The following year, he won first place overall in the Alabama Bass Federation/FLW Junior Tournament.

Zeke continued to excel throughout middle school and high school, winning and placing in more than 50 tournaments and receiving recognition from numerous fishing organizations.

He was named B.A.S.S. Alabama Nation High School Angler of the Year in 2015 and was named a B.A.S.S. High School All-American. After high school, he continued fishing in college at Jefferson State Community College, then Jacksonville State University and was named 2020 B.A.S.S. Collegiate Angler of the Year. His team won the national championship.

Zeke is just as proud of his dad as Curtis is of him, describing his dad as competitive, encouraging and loving. “He was always so patient, as a parent and as a coach. He’s always supported me from the time I decided this is what I wanted to do.” In addition to being his dad, Curtis was his fishing coach for seven years.

A former school principal and high school fishing coach, who also coached middle school volleyball, Curtis spent many years exercising the patience required to inspire extra effort from his student athletes.

During his nine years as principal at New Directions Alternative School, he also served as head coach for Pell City High School’s fishing team, then for Briarwood Christian School for another three years. In that time, he led his teams to six top five finishes in high school national championships, including two B.A.S.S. High School National Championships at Pell City. He’s coached three B.A.S.S. High School All-American Anglers.

The end of 2020 took a difficult turn for the Gossett family. That October, while Zeke was in Kentucky at a fishing tournament, both his dad, Curtis, and his mom, Laura, were hospitalized with COVID. Laura was released within the week, but Curtis, who suffers from asthma, struggled, eventually being put on a ventilator. “We didn’t tell him right away because he needed to stay and win that tournament,” admits Curtis. After Zeke returned, he was able to bring his mother home, and the two focused on praying for Curtis. “We’d get video calls from the hospital every night,” says Zeke. “It was not really a conversation with him being on a ventilator, but we spent time with him.”

After nearly a month in the hospital, Curtis was strong enough to be released. “His hair was long, and he was so skinny,” recalls Zeke. “But he got his strength back after about a month.” They won the first tournament they entered after that. Winning a tournament is great, but for these two, any day spent fishing together is a win. “Since COVID, fishing with Zeke has become even sweeter,” says Curtis. “I do not take it for granted!”

Curtis displays championship fishing rings

At 27 years old, Zeke is out on the water about 200 days a year, either in tournaments or as a fishing guide, doing what he loves. “These days,” laughs Zeke, “it’s Dad who’s waiting by the window for me to come back from fishing.” Zeke is in the front of the boat and putting the bait “on a dime,” just like his dad taught him. And that, he explains, is the difference in a bite or not.

Curtis’ own dad worked a lot, so it was his mom who taught him to fish, taking him fishing from the age of four. He credits his mom with choosing to make family time a priority by taking him fishing as often as she could. When Zeke came along, Curtis passed along that gift of time with his son and the love of fishing grew, just as their love for each other matured.

The fishing duo is really a fishing trio, as both say they couldn’t do what they do without the support of Zeke’s mom, Laura. “She’s Zeke’s biggest fan,” says Curtis. “She never complains about us being away. Without that support at home, you can’t do what we do.” Both agree that she is the most loving, hard worker they know.

Laura and Curtis have been married 31 years. Another fine catch from that year, a six-pound two-ounce Alabama Coosa Bass, hangs on the wall, reminding Curtis of great times had on Logan Martin Lake.

Today is another sweet day for the pair. They’re spending the day fishing together on Logan Martin. With Zeke’s busy professional fishing schedule occupying 43 out of 52 weekends this year, the two still make time to fish together at least a couple of times a month. “There are not many things in this world I would rather be doing than fishing with Zeke and enjoying the great outdoors,” Curtis says.

The two had a banner year in 2022, when Zeke was named Angler of the Year and Curtis, Co-Angler of the Year, for the Alabama B.A.S.S. Nation. Their combined scores earned them first place the same year at the Alabama B.A.S.S. Nation State Championship.

These days, the roles are reversed for the pair. Zeke is in the front of the boat, the place that controls the boat and the decisions for the team. And Curtis wouldn’t have it any other way, adding “the day he took over that position was a great full circle moment.

On the Water: Boat Preview 2025

Compiled by Paul South
and Graham Hadley
Submitted Photos

For many lake lovers, whether on Logan Martin, Neely Henry, or anywhere along the beautiful Coosa River, December’s visions of sugarplums melt away in January, replaced by dreams of new boats – crafts that will be a surefire cure for the summertime blues.

Think pontoons or tritoons, ski boats, surf boats or kayaks. The first frost of the season draws more than a few folks into showrooms to check out the newest offerings. Consumer confidence is on the rise.

“We sold four boats yesterday,” Rambo Marine General Sales Manager Grant Stinson said in a phone interview shortly after Thanksgiving.

Optimism, it seems, like lake levels in summer, is high at boat dealerships up and down the river and its popular lakes and streams.

The Sunchaser Calais 23

Available at University Marine at Pine Harbor, the new boats will feature the Honda 350 eight cylinder engine.

The pontoons are a celebration of quality and comfort. The Calais, according to the company, is “the crown jewel” of the Sunchaser fleet.

Featuring a lavish interior that includes four wrap-around couches a power bimini top, as well as theX-Treme PR25 Third Tube performance package that ensures smooth navigation even at breathtaking speeds, the Calais can seat up to 12 passengers.

The Calais also includes platform lighting, an executive console with cooler storage anda WetSounds MC 2 music system that is Bluetooth/USB/satellite-radio ready. Colors include a white panel with black or blue stripe, or a Carbon panel with black stripe.

The Sunchaser Lucerne

Billed as a pontoon that delivers style, functionality and exceptional value, the Lucerne is sleek and durable and comes in eight exterior colors. The entry-level Lucerne has a 50-horsepower motor.

Options include a luxury package that offers a power bimini top, Helix 5 in-dash GPS, high-back helm chairs, interior mood lighting and other features.

Sunchaser offers a variety of pontoon choices for first time buyers on a budget, or boaters who are looking for a luxury experience. That’s what makes these boats special, said University Marine manager Ricky Ganey.

Visit University Marine at www.pineharbormarina.com

Starcraft RX Series

Rodney Humphries, owner of Rodney’s Marine in Pell City, is a veteran of the boat business, working at marine businesses since he was 13. And he’s just as excited today as he was then.

Listen to him talk about the new Starcraft RX Series tritoon boat, a craft that combines plush features, elegance, durability and high performance.

“It’s a new styling. It’s got fiberglasss railing. The design of it is different from their traditional pontoon.”

Depending on options, the boat sells for $80,000 to $120,000 – and the Starcraft traditionally offers seemingly limitless options.

Visit Rodney’s Marine at rodneysmarine.com

Savannah Center Console

Center-console fishing boats continue to grow in popularity. The Savannah line for sale from Rodney’s is no exception. And Savannah keeps stepping up the game for 2025.

Dive into the world of hybrid-bay boats with Savannah Boat Works’ Hybrid Inshore Series. Designed for fishing and family outings, these boats offer the perfect balance of agility and performance. With luxurious features, efficient layout, and unmatched versatility, Savannah boats ensure a comfortable and exhilarating experience on the water, whether you’re chasing fish or enjoying leisure time with your loved ones.

Your Hybrid Inshore model is ready for a quiet early morning fishing followed by rallying the family for an afternoon anchored off a lake island. At 2500 pounds, they’re easy to tow over the road, will pull a tube or a skier, and float in just over a foot of water.

Nucanoe Kayaks

Allen Norris and his wife, Jessica, moved their kayak shop from Shelby County to Cropwell in 2024, recognizing that kayaking is increasingly popular on the Coosa, which is part of the Alabama 650 paddleboat racecourse.

The Nucanoe Unlimited Kayak is a hot property for 2025. At more than 12 feet long, this boat is, as the name suggests, a new design in kayaking. A sturdy craft, it can hold up to 650 pounds and up to three people and offers a great experience for hunters, anglers and kayakers.

The craft sits high on the water and has 360-degree seating. Sold in a variety of colors and crafted in one-piece durable plastic – no seams or weak areas here. A second 360-degree seat can be added, as well as a bench seat, perfect for pets.

A second kayak, the Nucanoe Flint, is also worth a look in 2025. Like the Unlimited, it’s fully customizable, but is better suited to creeks than big water, Norris said.

Visit The Yak Shak at 2705 Martin Street South or online at theyakshak.com.

Avalon Quad Lounger Shift

At Poor House Branch Marina, the buzz words are Avalon and Tahoe — for Avalon & Tahoe Manufacturing, makers of the 2025 Quad Lounger Shift. The Quad Lounger gives boaters a “retro feel” and boasts “luxurious design and a spacious sundeck,” according to the company website.

The boat includes a push-button switchback seating system, a tapered front deck and an expanded rear deck. It offers a 10-year bow to stern warranty and a lifetime structural warranty.

Tritoons like the Quad Lounger offer a smoother ride, according to Poor House owner Dina Chappell.

Avalon Catalina VRL

A second hot boat that was especially big in 2024 was the Catalina VRL for Versatile Rear Lounger, a “bed boat.” The Versatile Rear Lounger features both a port and starboard bow bench. The aft features a seating area that converts into an oversized lounge area perfect for the sun worshippers of the family. Also, the seat can move back and forth so the occupants can face either the bow of the boat or aft.

Poor House Branch also offers a variety of accessories – lifejackets, floats, mats, noodles and more are available.

“We have a shop that has everything you need for a fun day on the water,” Chappell said.

Bennington M Series

The boat that has folks stoked at Woods Surfside is Bennington’s new M Series. The company trumpets it  as “a modern expression of style” in the pontoon boat fleet. The series comes in three lengths, 22, 24 and 26 feet and in a variety of colors.

The boat cuts an elegant figure on the water, and includes a newly designed digital display system, Rockford Fosgate Audio and state of the art vessel control.

A sleek, new interior and exterior design, makes the boat “look fast standing still,” said Surfside’s Mark Hildebrant.

Check out Woods Surfside Marina, one of Bennington’s top dealers in the U.S., at www.woodssurfside.com  or visit at 37 Marina Drive in Cropwell.

MasterCraft X Series

At Skier’s Marine in Westover, Jeremy Talbot is fired up about the MasterCraft X Series surf boat. Redesigned for 2025, the boat has more ballast capability, a newly-designed sound system, a mix of comfort and performance for all watersports. “it’s a really awesome boat,” he said.

MasterCraft has also revealed new colors for 2025, including the elegant magnetic blue that makes a statement on the water.

“This boat will check all the boxes, handle all the watersports and provide all the comfort that the family needs,” he said.

Harris Pontoons

Skiers is now the area dealer for Harris Pontoons. At January’s Birmingham Boat Show, the dealership will feature Harris’ two top-of-the-line boats, the Crowne and The Grand Mariner. In all, Skiers Marine will feature 32 boats at the show.

Skiers features a pro shop in the dealership with everything from towables, surfboards, innertubes, wakeboards, skis and lifejackets.

Visit Skiers at10171 Highway 280, Westover, AL 35147 or at skiersmarine.com

Barletta Luso

Designed with you and your on-water experience in mind, the Barletta Lusso models offer something for everyone. A classic and stylish rail-set, ultra-soft and ultra-comfortable furniture, a sleek helm loaded with technology and leg-room, pet-friendly amenities…the list goes on and on. Take a look and see why the Barletta L-Class pontoon boat just might be the perfect choice for you and your family.

Barletta Boats redefines luxury pontooning with its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design. Born from a passion for boating, Barletta prides itself on creating pontoons that blend style, comfort, and performance seamlessly. Each Barletta boat is meticulously crafted with premium materials and cutting-edge technology, ensuring durability and reliability on the water. From spacious lounging areas to state-of-the-art entertainment systems, every detail is thoughtfully curated to enhance the boating experience. 

Check out the Barletta line at Rambo Marine on U.S. 280 or visit online www.rambomarine.com.

Yamaha FSH

Yamaha is leaning hard into the center-console boat lines, specializing in their FSH jet boat series, which you can find at Rambo Marine.

Yamaha’s Center Console series epitomizes the flexibility of Jet Boats, whether you’re fishing at dawn, enjoying tubing with the kids in the afternoon, or cruising to your favorite on-water dining spot at sunset. Available in 19-foot, 22-foot, and 25-foot configurations with single or dual engines.

Yamaha’s Helm Master EX and joystick control deliver seamless, precise low-speed maneuvering. With Helm Master EX, drivers can effortlessly command boat movements—forward, reverse, lateral shifts and rotations — all controlled with just one hand on the joystick.

Tillison Bend Campground

On its way to becoming resort destination point on Neely Henry

Story by Carol Pappas
Photos by Graham Hadley
and Carol Pappas

Tillison Bend’s roots run deep along Coosa riverbanks in Gadsden. Settled in the mid-1800s, generations have called this picturesque waterfront community home.

Today, a group of businessmen is breathing new life into a 16-acre section of the bend with three quarters of a mile of shoreline and its very own island, transforming it all into a destination point for RV campers. And plans are to share some of its amenities coming soon with the public.

Opened in June, Tillison Bend Marina and Campground accommodates 60 full-service camp sites. Twenty-four more are planned along with five piers, a boardwalk, boat ramp and 20 cabins.

Aerial view of the resort at sunset

The island is already becoming a destination point for all kinds of outdoor activities, including cornhole, volleyball and Gaga ball, where players compete in an octagonal pit in a form of dodge ball.

A pavilion on the island hosts live musical entertainment for special events and holidays, and is likely to grow into a year-round draw to the public.

Meanwhile, campers from around the world have already been settling in all summer and fall. They hailed from Canada, England and all over the country. They have home grown visitors as well. A couple from nearby Hokes Bluff camped there in recent months, noting that even though it was a close drive, they felt like they were away at a vacation resort. “They told us, ‘We’ll be back. We love it,’ ” said Joey Fortenberry, one of the partners in Tillison Bend.

The partners are no stranger to the business world and what it takes to mold success. Illustrating their entrepreneurial spirit, among them, they have five businesses. Together, in addition to Tillison Bend, they own Marine Worx, which builds docks, piers, seawalls and boat ramps – anything marine-related, they say. The Fortenberrys, who are cousins, also own JF Development, which builds barndominiums and custom homes, and Sadler owns S&H Waterproofing and Construction.

Together, they’re a team with a vision to create something special at Tillison Bend.

“That’s the goal – to be an RV resort,” said Sadler. “We want this to be a first-class experience.” At Tillison Bend, they can enjoy that kind of experience with plenty of activities and excellent service onsite “without having to pay a monster amount of money.”

Judging by the smiles of a family enjoying a day in the impressive, heated pool on an October afternoon or the laughter of a mother and child playing in the nearby hot tub, it’s easy to see Tillison Bend is well on its way.

Amenities continue to be added. A $27,000 sound system has just been installed. A projector is ready for “movie nights” at the pool. Eight big screen TVs will be strategically located at “Tilly’s Bar,” a sports bar with an island vibe.

Aerial view of the resort at sunset

The Rusty Hook Trading Post at Tillison Bend, a massive convenience store with all kinds of offerings await campers, and soon, it will be open to the public, serving food and drinks. Bait and tackle sales are available there as well as canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals. Future plans call for boat and personal watercraft rentals.

The Bend, only five minutes from downtown, is also a place where boaters can get gas on the water.

Jody Fortenberry talked of the Trading Post’s signature delight – a homemade ice cream bar made especially for them by a local creamery. And while it might seem a small amenity, it’s that attention to detail and quality that sets this venture apart. One taste of the Cookies ‘N Cream version surely underscores that notion.

So do plans for an indoor recreation center with basketball and pickleball courts, a game room, fitness center and indoor playground expected by next spring.

While Tillison Bend welcomes campers with all amenities offered at affordable prices in an RV resort, Sadler is quick to point out, “We don’t want to be the cheapest. We want to be the most desirable.”

From the foundation already laid, it looks like that goal is just around the bend.

Great Alabama 650

America’s longest paddle race navigates Neely Henry, Logan Martin en route to finish

In the quiet of a Saturday evening and Sunday morning in September on Neely Henry and Logan Martin lakes, you just might have heard the sound of a boat paddle slapping the water in staccato precision, propelling the paddler toward the finish line.

It would be a week before the first of the group reached that goal as they made their way across lakes, rivers and creeks on a 650-mile trek that takes stamina, will and determination. Lots of determination.

First to arrive at Logan Martin portage near the dam

It’s America’s longest paddle race, and it’s right here in Alabama – along the state’s Scenic River Trail. It began at Weiss Lake near the border with Georgia and ended in the Alabama Gulf at Fort Morgan as the final racer crossed the finish line Oct. 1.

The first leg of the race took paddlers through Gadsden and Neely Henry, arriving there during the night of the first day. The next morning residents up and down the shores of Logan Martin caught glimpses of paddlers all day long as they headed to the portage at Logan Martin Dam.

Watch party at Buffalo Wild Wings in Gadsden

One of the first to pass through the local area was Trey Reaves, who went on to win the race in seven days, three hours and 20 minutes. The first-place finish was familiar territory to Reaves. He was Alabama 650’s first back-to-back solo winner.

Also coming in quickly at Logan Martin’s portage was Lindsey Tilton, the first female to complete the course exclusively on a paddleboard. She finished in 9 days,  19 hours and 35 minutes.

To underscore the grueling challenge of the race, only 47 percent actually finish. At the end this year, there were only 10 claiming that achievement. l

Editor’s Note: The Great Alabama 650 is part of the Alabama Scenic River Trail, a network of more than 6,500 miles of river trails throughout Alabama, spanning from mountain streams and whitewater rapids in North Alabama to the river deltas in the South. It is one of the most diverse in the country. For more, go to: ASRT.me.

Lindsey Tilton in historic paddle board finish at Fort Morgan

Sunset Sips

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

Rodeo and Rhythm

A smash hit at Neely Henry’s Greensport

Story by Carol Pappas
Photos by Mackenzie Free

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!