OUTDOORS – Page 2 – LakeLife 24/7 Magazine

Turtle Time!

Innovative LMLPA program gives kids up-close look at Logan Martin Lake’ diverse turtle population

Story by Loyd McIntosh
Photos by Richard Rybka

It’s Friday night in early June, and a group of parents and their children are wandering through the boggy marsh on the banks of Logan Martin. With flashlights guiding their way, the group follows the lead of Grover Brown, an assistant professor from the Department of Biology at Jacksonville State University.

A specialist in herpetology, the study of reptiles and amphibians, he waves his flashlight around, shining the light into the treeline until he finds what he is looking for, a pink ribbon tied to a low-hanging branch indicating the general area he set a turtle trap in the shallow water below.

Brown feels around in the murky water until he finds the rope and starts tugging the trap toward the shore. Brown pulls the trap out of the water to a chorus of “Cool!” and “Wow!” The trap is filled with turtles. “We did pretty good,” Brown says as he clears the trap of debris. “What we use as bait is a can of sardines. Apparently, I put two in here because I wasn’t paying attention,” Brown says.

As the kids gather around, shining their flashlights around frantically as they attempt to get a glimpse of the haul, Brown removes the turtles from the trap and explains to the excited children what they caught.

“We have two species in here. We’ve got what we call a pond slider,” he explains as he holds up a small turtle, about the size of a hockey puck.

“This is a male, and I know it’s a male because of his feet,” Brown explains, as he points out the turtle’s long “wolverine” like toes. He asks the assembled children what they think the turtle uses his long claw for and after a few moments of the children shouting out an array of good to goofy answers, he finally gives them the truth.

“The ladies find them very attractive,” Brown says as the group, adults and children, burst out into laughter.

Next, Brown shows the group another catch, a small female turtle commonly known as a stinkpot, inviting everyone to smell the reptile before sharing the smelly truth behind its name.

“They’re very small and need to come up with a form of protection, and they basically act like the turtle equivalent of a skunk,” Brown says. “When they get scared, they release a really foul, smelly musk.”

After a few more minutes of discussion, Brown allows the kids to handle the turtles and release them back into the water before making their way down the path to the next trap.

The scene is part of Frog Night WithTurtles, an annual event organized by the Logan Martin Lake Protection Association (LMLPA) honoring the late Dr. George Cline, a beloved professor of biology at Jacksonville State who passed away in February 2022. Known affectionately as Dr. Frog, Cline taught biology, ecology, conservation, animal behavior, herpetology and vertebrate anatomy for close to 30 years and also volunteered his time at the Anniston of Natural History, where he founded Herpfest, an annual celebration of reptiles and amphibians.

Brown, who, with good humor, suggests Dr. Turtle as a suitable nickname for himself, is now in his third year leading Frog Night With Turtles. As he prepares for the event underneath a pavilion at Pell City Lakeside Park, he can barely contain his enthusiasm to showcase the unique biodiversity of Logan Martin Lake and the state as a whole.

“It’s a great opportunity for these kids to get to see the wildlife that occurs in their own backyard,” Brown says.

“Alabama is really lucky to have a warm climate, and we have topography, so we have species that only occur in the mountains and species that may only occur along the coast,” he adds. “So with that gradient, we get incredible biodiversity.”

For the first half of the event, Brown and his colleague Bethany Adams, an instructor of Biology with a special interest in Alabama’s snake population, talk to the group about the reptiles and amphibians they are likely to encounter in the area.

He and Adams also have a little show-and-tell, bringing out some exotic turtles and even a rat snake, allowing the kids – and their parents – to see and touch these animals. Brown said their goal is to help the group appreciate their natural surroundings in an interactive and fun way.

“They’re going to learn about their ecology without knowing they’re learning about their ecology,” says Brown. “We’re going to say what these turtles do, why they’re important to the environment, and why we should care about them and protect them because we know if the environment is healthy for them, then the environment is also healthy for us.

“We try to weave in a few lessons of why they should care about these species and why these species, in my opinion, make Alabama so special,” Brown adds. “We have more total species in our state than most countries do around the world.”

An evening of wonder

As the sun sets and the moon shines its silvery light on the surface of the lake, the kids show no signs of slowing down as Brown pulls yet another trap from the murky water. Excitedly, they gather around the biologist and wait for their turn to hold a turtle, gently drop it back into the water, and watch it swim away, before hustling back for another turn.

“It was amazing!” said Layon Nixon, an 11-year-old student at Williams Intermediate School in Pell City. “I’ve never gotten to hold a turtle before!”

Layon’s mother, Lisa Nixon, said she brought her daughters, Layon and Adalle, to Frog & Turtle Night to support their interests but also to emphasize the importance of the area’s wildlife and caring for the health of the lake.

“First of all, they love this sort of thing,” says Nixon. “We’ve always known about the association (LMLPA) and support the association, and just knowing the science behind it and knowing the animals that are part of the lake and the need to take care of them is huge.”

Another treasure on Pirate Island

Just when you thought Logan Martin’s Pirate Island couldn’t get any better, along comes a new resident.

It’s a giant wooden pirate, in full pirate regalia, complete with a peg leg and a photo cutout for capturing memories.

It was a gift to Jim and Laurie Regan, owners of the island, handcrafted by Jim’s friend, Randall Rigsby, president and CEO of Altex Packaging in Anniston. He created it from a photo of Jim in costume and then “cut my mug out,” says Jim.

It all began with Jim’s appearance at Bucaneer Camp at the Anniston Museum, where Jim talked to the would-be pirates about the perks of being a seafaring adventurer. Randall made the form with marine-grade wood, and now it stands sentry over the island. Jim built a platform behind it for the kids to climb up and have their picture made.

So, step on up, put your face in place and just say, Arrrrrgh, Matey! l

Editor’s Note: Oh, yeah, the pirate needs a name. Won’t you help? Send your nominations to: happenings@loganmartinlakelife.com. The best moniker wins a LakeLife 24/7 Pirate Island T-shirt and a prize pack of treasures!

It’s almost trout season

Noccalula Falls Park luring more fly anglers

Story by Paul South
Submitted and staff photos

Flawless casting in fly fishing is like a Fred Astaire-Ginger Rogers movie routine, explained veteran Rainbow City fly angler and guide Frank Roden.

“The perfect rhythm in fly fishing is almost like the perfect dance. If we’re dancing with a lady, we’ve got to show her what we intend to do next, without pushing her around or stepping on her feet, that kind of thing.”

It only takes a gentle touch.

On Black Creek, that gentle touch – an elegant meeting of rhythm and cast, water and rainbow trout – begins Oct. 15 and continues until June 30, 2025. It’s a new chapter in the City of Gadsden’s successful effort to grow fly fishing at Noccalula Falls.

Twice a year, as weather permits, the city stocks Black Creek with 1,800 pounds of Rainbow trout. The effort to bolster the fish population is in its sixth year. Funding for it comes from the sale of fishing permits on the creek, as well as some state tourism dollars, Roden said.

Black Creek is a “delayed harvest” stream, meaning that up until May 1, 2025, anglers must practice “catch and release” and cannot keep any fish. After May 1, anglers are subject to the state creel limit of five fish per day.

Fishing of any type is prohibited in the park after June 30.

Roden called the city’s efforts to grow and promote fly fishing, “a great success” for Gadsden’s growing tourism industry and for the sport.

“It’s allowed a lot of people who say, ‘I’ve always wanted to fly fish,’ or ‘I’ve always wanted to trout fish, but I never got a way to do it.’ Well, right here, locally, it’s given them a way to do it.”

Black Creek has also introduced the sport to a new generation, both locally and across the Southeast.

“People that have children bring their kids right hereto the water, and they don’t have to travel any distance,” Roden said.

As for fly angling-related tourism, Roden says it’s growing. And he has an unusual way to gauge that increasing popularity. Along with his wife Tammy, he’s the co-owner of Rainbow City Auction & Fly Shop.

“This last October through January, when we were trying to get fish in (Black Creek), I was just covered up with phone calls, saying ‘Frank, when are we going to get fish in?’ ”

The calls came from South Florida, Kentucky and Illinois, Mississippi and points in between, Roden said.

Trout are stocked in the river to make sure there are plenty fo fish

“This is something people in our area have been and should be very proud of, bringing tourism in,” Roden said.

Polly Dean, the associate editor of the fly-fishing site, OntheFlySouth.com, agrees that the sport is growing in the region, both in fresh and saltwater.

“I see greater interest in the sport of fly fishing, especially with women and young adults, even children,” Dean wrote in an email. “I see the sport growing in southern states, since fly anglers aren’t just targeting trout in warm water.”

The COVID-19 pandemic may have also played a role in fly fishing’s increased popularity, Dean wrote.

“Folks were looking for more recreational opportunities outdoors,” she wrote. “All in all, fly fishing can be quite rewarding and addictive.”

According to the American Sportfishing Association, between 2010 and 2020, the number of fly anglers grew from 5.5 million in 2010 to 7.8 million in 2020.

Some may shy away from fly fishing in the mistaken belief that fly fishing is too expensive, Roden said. But the sport is affordable.

“You can go down here to (a chain sporting goods store) and buy a $49 outfit,” Roden said.

In the six years of the restocking effort on Black Creek, the trout population is mature, Roden said. He is an Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing instructor. Orvis is one of the iconic brands of fly fishing clothing and equipment. He’s toiled as a guide on local waters for nearly 20 years, he said.

But a guide isn’t necessary on Black Creek, he said.

“You don’t need a guide because it’s one of those streams where you can go in and do everything yourself.”

Just as the amount of rainfall in the area – the source of precious oxygen for trout – impacts Gadsden’s restocking efforts, precipitation also affects the quality of fishing on Black Creek.

The new fish introduced to the creek are anywhere from 12-16 inches long. Anglers have reported fish as big as 24 inches. “If the rainfall comes, it will be good,” Roden said.

Along with the fishing, there’s $11 million worth of renovation going on at Noccalula Falls Park Campground, which should also boost tourism, Roden said. “It should be a whole lot better environment,” he added.

The key to success for first-time anglers on Black Creek? It’s all in the cast, the graceful 10 o’clock to 2 o’clock motion at the heart of the sport.

“First, take a fly rod and go out and practice your casting,” said Roden, a disciple of the late fly-fishing icon Bernard “Lefty” Kreh. “If you wait until you’re on the stream to get your casting down, it’s not going to work out nearly as well.” Experience is the best teacher.

“Fly fishing is more than just putting a hook and a fly on the water and waiting for something to come get it,” Roden said. “You’ve got to learn where to put it, how to put it there, what to expect when a fish does get it. Get your drift (of the fly) right, then how to handle the fish once it gets on that fly.”

Successful fly anglers have what Roden calls “soft hands.

“It’s not how sure our hands are, or how strong our hands are. It’s how we angle that rod and that line and how we finesse that fish and also how we are going to handle that fish once we get him to the net.”

It’s comparable to how a golfer is able to gingerly chip the ball close to the hole, or a quarterback uses touch to fit a ball into a tight window between the receiver and a defender.

“You’ve got to be able to put the fly where you need to put it for it to have a natural drift in the water. You have to allow the fly to do it.”

A successful cast allows the fly to gracefully float down to the water, not slap it, added Roden. And at the end of the day, it’s all about the dance – elegance and perfect rhythm.

“If you want to spin the lady around, if you just take that left hand out just a touch, they will turn and make (the spin) for you,” he said. “They can make you look good. It’s the same way with the fish,” he added. “If we do what we need to do with this rhythm, this dance, everything else will work out.”

WANT TO GET HOOKED?

Interested in fly fishing? Check out the Rainbow Fly Fishing Club. The club meets on the first Thursday of each month at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1885 Rainbow Drive in Rainbow City. Dues are $25 annually. For more information, visit the club’s Facebook page or call 256-490-5450.

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

Lakeside Live Musicfest returning to Logan Martin Lake

Story by Cherith Fluker
Submitted Photos

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.

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.

The Yak Shak

New store brings kayaks, accessories
and more to Pell City

Story and photos
by Carol Pappas

Turn off U.S. 231 South at the colorful, largemouth bass mailbox, and it’s your first hint that something special awaits up ahead.

Just beyond is newly opened The Yak Shak, a stone’s throw from Logan Martin Lake. Inside, you’ll find something special indeed – and it’s not just the kayaks and accessories.

Meet Allen and Jessica Norris, owners of The Yak Shak, a business they started five years ago when they were dating. Kayak fishing was Allen’s hobby, and he soon introduced Jessica to it. When it became their passion together, they decided to build a business around it. The Yak Shak already has a franchise opening in Indiana soon.

Allen, Jessica and Madelyn Norris, not pictured, 2-year-old Coleman

They located their initial store in a strip mall in Pelham and experienced early successes when the COVID pandemic hit, and people began heading outdoors. “It’s been a wild ride,” Allen said. “We’ve only known pandemic retail,” added Jessica. “Interest exploded. We thought that was the way it was going to be.”

While other businesses closed their doors during the pandemic, The Yak Shak thrived. It wasn’t until the year after, when supply chain problems surfaced that their business plan headed in an adaptive direction. “We worked off pre-orders,” where customers could choose their exact color, style, and customization.

Much of their business is still centered on pre-orders today, but they have adapted and expanded when opportunities arose. They found a market in used kayaks generated by the new kayak market. They have trade-ins, they offer full customization of the kayaks, and they ship smaller items all over the country.

They define their business as a “destination” type – customers looking for a place to buy a kayak. They sell kayaks, paddleboards and inflatables not found in big box stores. They also offer well-known brands like AFTCO, Heybo, Big Bite Baits, YakAttack and Rapala. They sell Bending Branches paddles and NRS inflatable kayaks.

Average price range of kayaks and accessories is $500-$2,500. Now that kayak fishing tournaments allow motors, The Yak Shak has seen an influx of customers wanting to add trolling motors, outboards, live scope, and many more electronics to their kayaks. “We cater to tournament-focused brands,” Allen adds.

A tournament weigh-in held there a couple of weeks ago accommodated 17 vehicles with kayaks and trailers in the parking lot. “We had plenty of room,” said Allen, noting another plus of their move from Pelham to Pell City.

Of course, it’s not a weigh-in in the bass tournament sense of the phrase. Kayak fishing tournaments are ‘weighed’ with photos and a “bump board,” a ruler-like board with a hard end to measure the fish from nose to tail. A photo then captures the size for this catch-and-release method.

Every boat and accessory they offer, they tested themselves. “It’s our passion,” Allen said. He gives the nod to Jessica in the fishing, though. “Her personal best is a 7-pound largemouth.”

How they got here from there

The couple arrived at this moment in their lives from different directions, but there is no disguising the joy they have already found running a business in Pell City together.

He graduated from Kennesaw State College in Georgia in Management, Entrepreneurship and International Business. “I speak Chinese,” he said, referring to his International Business interest. He went to work at Hewlett Packard right out of college, and a promotion brought him to Birmingham.

She graduated in Communications at the University of Alabama, and her background is in marketing and franchising. In her spare time between their business, working remotely with a software company, tending to their 4-month-old and 2-year-old, she wrote a children’s book – Francine’s First Fish. She was already in Birmingham.

They met, fell in love, married and started a business. They found a home on Logan Martin Lake and moved a coupled of years ago. It just made sense to trade the long commute for a business near their home and the lake.

“We’re excited to be a part of the community,” Allen said, noting that The Yak Shak has already been involved in LakeFest and events at Lincoln’s Landing. “This is where we live and want to do business. It’s where we want to raise our kids.”

He points to the growth all around and said, “It is very encouraging to see that as a new business.” When the location on U.S. 231 opened up, they decided to close Pelham and move The Yak Shak to Pell City, Allen said. “It was the best move for our family and our business.”

Ice cream and pedal boats on Neely Henry Lake

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.

For more information, call 256-549-4677.

Easy way to the water

Paddlers to get new access to Neely Henry through grant

Story by Paul South
Photos by Graham Hadley
Submitted photos

For Dave Tumlin, the memory is as vivid as summer sunsets on Neely Henry Lake.

As an Alabama kid transplanted to California, he and his family would travel from the West Coast to visit relatives and spend time on the Coosa River. His family eventually moved back to Alabama and built a rock and shake shingle house on the Coosa River in 1968. Dave still lives there today.

The trips – and his parents’ stories of family and the river – would linger in Tumlin’s head, heart and imagination long after returning to California.

“When we were kids in grade school, my brother and I would take the double mattress off my folks’ bed, throw it on the floor, and we would pretend like we were rafting down the river like Tom Sawyer,” Tumlin said. “That’s how long my love has been for this river and this lake.”

NHLA President Dave Tumlin shows where access will be installed

The Tumlins were one of the lake’s first families. He remembers when the area was dominated by the Coosa River and cow pastures.

“It was pretty close to the first house on the lake after the lake came up in the 1960s,” Tumlin said. “We’ve watched it evolve from a beautiful river and bottom land to a more beautiful lake.”

Alabama Power Company created the lake in 1966.

Now retired, Tumlin serves as president of the Neely Henry Lake Association. The organization, representing some 130 lake families working to protect and improve life on the lake, received a $2,200 grant from the Alabama Scenic River Trail Waterway Enhancement Program.

The funds will be used to construct the Rainbow City Paddle Launch. The project will provide the first assisted launch device on Neely Henry Lake, which will benefit paddleboarders, kayakers and canoeists, making water access easier and safer for them, particularly enthusiasts who don’t have their own dock.

NHLA was one of six recipients in the inaugural round of ASRT grants.

“The accessibility, if you don’t have your own dock, there is none, quite frankly,” Tumlin said. “That triggered the thought … What could we do with the popularity of paddleboarding and kayaking and so forth to give the public better access. So, it kind of evolved from there. We felt like it was a good thing to do.”

The grant is a first for the association.

Dave Tumlin explains to kayaker Shawn Craven of Ragland how the new system will work

Martha Grace Mize, Development and Outreach coordinator for the Alabama Scenic River Trail, praised the NHLA’s “really thought out” and thorough grant application. In its first year, the grant program attracted 10 applicants. The ASRT, best known for hosting the Great Alabama 650, the nation’s longest paddle race, awarded $25,000 in grants.

“They (the lake association) were very considerate of thinking about what it would take to bring the project to fruition and what the follow up would be,” Mize said. “They were very intentional about how this project would impact public use and how they could explore other projects in the future on Neely Henry.”

The ASRT was founded in 2008 to enhance recreation and tourism on Alabama’s more than 6,000 miles of rivers and streams, the longest historic river trail in the United States.

The accessibility devices can either be fixed or floating. The NHLA launch will float and be affixed to a dock. The new launch will be able to rise up and down with the lake levels.

NHLA, in conjunction with Rainbow City Parks and Recreation, expects to complete the project by summer’s end. The accessibility device will be located at Rainbow Landing near the Southside Bridge on Alabama 77.

“We wanted to be able to provide something that to our knowledge doesn’t exist for the public,” Tumlin said.

Currently, kayakers, paddleboarders and the like have to go to a public dock and lower themselves onto their vessels. Balance can be tricky. The project will change that.

“You can put your kayak, paddleboard or canoe on top of the floating device and ease yourself into the water using arms that are on there. And the reverse is true when you return. You can pull yourself out of the water.”

The project is in response to the increasing popularity of canoes, paddleboards and kayaks. The COVID-19 pandemic actually boosted the popularity of paddle sports. The global market was estimated at $2.4 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $3.3 billion by 2027, according to the Great Outdoor Recreation Pages (gorp.com).

That increasing popularity underscores the need for the project, Tumlin said.

“With the really rapid growth in the use of kayaks, canoes and paddleboards, we need that accessibility on our lake,” Tumlin said.

“I think this will go a long way to help people who enjoy doing that and give them a safer way to access the lake. It seemed like a really neat thing to do to improve life on the lake because a lot of people are going to kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. It’s a great way to connect with the water,” Tumlin added.

While pontoons, ski and bass boats and personal watercrafts, even sailboats, are popular, paddle sports provide a more intimate experience.

“It’s just a whole different way to experience the lake,” Tumlin said. “The shoreline is closer and certainly the water is closer. But it gives you a connection you don’t get any other way.”

He added, “There’s nothing cooler than being on a paddleboard or a kayak and going up quietly into a slough. You really are one with the lake when you do that.”

Paddle sports also benefit the environment, propelled by human strength, not fossil fuels.

“It’s quiet. You get exercise when you’re out there, so that’s a good thing. But from an environmental standpoint, there’s absolutely no impact. So, it’s a very good thing.”

As for the future, NHLA is considering similar paddle sport projects on the lake and plans to pursue more grants, Tumlin said. The group is currently researching possible sites in Gadsden, Southside and in St. Clair County.

“We would like to put one up in Gadsden at Coosa Landing,” Tumlin said. “They’ve got a small inlet area there that I think would be [a good place] to launch before people got out into the river itself.”

Bottom line for Tumlin is, “I’d like to see one in Canoe Creek. I’d like to see one on Southside and one in Gadsden.”

The love affair that he and his family have had since even before his imaginary childhood Coosa River on a mattress has only deepened. The biodiversity and changing topography are only part of the lake’s variety. He’s explored much of it in a flat bottom boat.

North of Gadsden, the lake is riverine, narrow with high banks.

“That’s a whole different world, and it’s really cool to explore that. When you get down below Gadsden in the Southside area, the lake spreads out and the fishing changes. You’ve got mountains and the history of the area. I could talk forever about the beauty of this lake and the river.”

The initial Neely Henry access project is the latest in a series of projects by the association on the lake that improves the quality of life.

“Anything that can improve life on this river, that’s the most important thing,” Tumlin said. “We’ve seen the growth of boats and more families on the water and more kids experiencing what I experienced as a kid on the water. (Paddle sports are) a whole new way of experiencing the water. It’s just great to see that growth.”

For Tumlin, as certainly for other families and visitors, Neely Henry Lake is – to borrow a phrase from an old hymn – a fount of blessings.

“When I’m out there [on my patio looking at the lake], maybe having a glass of wine in the evening, I think how blessed I’ve been that my parents made the decision that they did. That decision – being on this lake – has affected my whole family. Just the joy over the years that my family has been able to experience because we live on this lake.”

What would his parents think of the new project?

“I think they would be really pleased that the lake association and the Alabama Scenic River Trail were able to expand to a whole other group of people the joy of being on this lake.”

Editor’s Notes: For more information on the Neely Henry Lake Association, visit neelyhenrylake.org or call Tumlin at (256)368-5200.

Learn more about the Alabama Scenic River Trail at alabamascenicrivertrail.com.

Logan Martin Lakefest and Boat Show 2024

Returning to Pell City’s Lakeside Park

Story by Paul South
Submitted Photos

On the social media platform “X” – formerly known as Twitter – Eric Housh made a powerful statement:

“I love the lake. Is it summer yet?”

“The lake” is Logan Martin. And Housh helps run LakeFest, a combination boat show, arts and crafts fair, music festival and block party that in 2023 drew an estimated 45,000 people.

Known as the largest in-water boat show in the Southeast, The Logan Martin LakeFest and Boat Show returns to Lakeside Park May 10-12 as “the place to be” for the past 15 Springs, save one coronavirus year. Some might even call it the unofficial start of another spectacular summer on the lake.

“We’re proud that it continues to grow a little bit every year and get bigger and bigger,” Housh said. “This year, we’ve already had a good response from all our sponsors and several vendors, so we’re looking forward to another really good, full event.

The festival will feature over 80 models of boats and personal watercraft, live music on the Tracker Stage, featuring the popular Louisville, Ky. B and The Velcro Pygmies, gourmet food trucks, lake lifestyle vendors and a fireworks show honoring vets from the Col. Robert L. Howard State Veterans Home in Pell City.

Admission is free. But food, drink and vendors’ wares will be for sale, so bring your wallet. Also, for prospective car and truck, boat and personal watercraft buyers, on-site financing will be available courtesy of America’s First Federal Credit Union.

LakeFest is an effort to promote Logan Martin Lake, raise money for local charities and build a stronger sense of community.

The seeds for the wildly popular event took root in a conversation between Housh and his next-door neighbor, Mike Riley, then president of the Logan Martin Lake Protection Association, as well as local businessmen Jerry Woods, Lee Holmes, Fred Casey and Joe Paul Abbott. Housh served on the association’s board and ran its website for a time.

“They had this vision of doing an event to really showcase Logan Martin Lake and the surrounding areas,” Housh said.

“If you live here, you know how special the lake is,” he added. “We felt like if we really showcase not only the lake and what it had to offer, but local businesses, vendors, local artisans, craftsmen, restaurants … The event was really about sharing with the outside community. It was kind of a way to welcome them in and share our special little slice of paradise here.”

Folks flock from across the South to the event – Mobile, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Atlanta and points in between. Call it a gathering of 40,000 of your closest friends.

“People come to the lake before then. But that weekend, everybody’s there,” Housh said. “You may see your lake friends year-round. But you may only see friends from Birmingham that weekend. It’s a way to have a celebration and look forward to enjoying another season on the lake and the lake lifestyle.”

Housh sums up the uniqueness of LakeFest in one word – “Community – “the people, the sponsors that make it happen. It’s always been a free event. We’re providing entertainment. We’re providing security. We have this massive fireworks show, and we feed the veterans on Friday night. That’s only made possible by people in this community.”

In its 14 years, the event has never had a safety incident, adding to its reputation as a family-friendly festival in this tight-knit community. And volunteers from church and youth groups man parking, concessions and other responsibilities.

“The public really values this event,” Housh said. “And that’s evident in the fact that everyone just comes out and has a good time. It’s a super-positive atmosphere. You can feel it.”

Logan Martin, it seems, is like New Orleans, in that just about every month, there’s a festival of some sort – LakeFest in Spring, Boo Bash in the Fall, summer’s Rock the Lake in Lincoln, Lakeside Live, Live at Logan Martin and so on. People here respect the lake and its community, celebrating it with family-friendly events.

“There are a lot of different opportunities to come together,” Housh said. “In general, we’re a community that likes to celebrate. We like to celebrate on the lake. We like to celebrate with our friends. So, as a result of that, you see a lot of these festivals popping up.”

Giving back to charity is one aspect that fuels LakeFest. So far, some $500,000 has been donated to local charities – police and fire department foundations, the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Boys Ranch, animal shelters, Lakeside Park improvements and the like. Sponsors fund the event, but also boost charities.

“We try to be wise stewards of the blessings that we have and then turn around and give away what we don’t invest in the event,” Housh says.

Looking back, Housh remembers what organizers have overcome, like in year three, when heavy rains nearly washed away vehicles and closed Highway 34.

But one thing remains constant, the glowing, joyous faces of kids and veterans and new boat buyers. And after the event, charities receive big donations.

“Yeah, it’s a little stressful over the course of the weekend. But you always see these glimpses of people being happy, living their best life. Every year, something magical happens,” Housh says.

“If they haven’t come out before, I’d encourage them to come check it out,” Housh said. “It’s fully accessible. It’s pet-friendly. There’s something for the entire family.

There’s a bubbly reason to put LakeFest on your Spring “to-do” list for Mother’s Day weekend: Mimosas for Moms on Sunday. Free Mimosas are in store for mothers on their special day.

And while organizers spearhead the event, Housh is quick to point out that there’s a small army of volunteers – and the community – who help make the magic.

First-time festgoers need to know one thing, Housh said.

“If you haven’t experienced this community yet, this is a great opportunity to feel that. It’s a really special event.”

Summer is Coming: Camp Cosby

Celebrating more than a
century of summertime fun

Story by Scottie Vickery
Submitted Photos

For many kids, summer camp is a dream come true. There’s swimming, horses, campfires, crafts and new friendships that often last a lifetime. Factor in more than a mile of shoreline on beautiful Logan Martin Lake, and it’s easy to see YMCA Camp Cosby as a field of dreams of sorts.

The lake is a huge part of what makes the camp special, according to Sky York, senior program director. “We have so many activities on the water,” she said. “There’s sailing, canoeing, paddleboarding, fishing, and we’ve got a section of the lake roped off for swimming with lots of fun inflatables. The kids love it.”

The fun doesn’t stop there. Thanks to a partnership with Rambo Marine, which provides the use of ski boats and pontoons, campers can enjoy waterskiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing and tubing while learning about water and boating safety at the same time. “A lot of kids, especially if they’ve grown up in the city, have never gotten to do things like that,” York said.

Trying new things and meeting new people are some of the best parts of camp, she added. “It’s really neat to see kids come out of their shells and get really excited about trying new things,” she said. “I also really enjoy helping guide the staff so they can help kids fall in love with camp.”

100 years and counting

Camp Cosby, which is accredited by the American Camping Association, has been providing summer fun for more than a century. The camp first opened in 1922 after the YMCA bought property north of Trussville that had a 26-acre lake. While it started as a camp for boys, it later offered sessions for girls, too. The camp moved to its current location on 135 acres in Alpine in 1972.

Today, there are eight sessions of summer camp for kids ages 6 to 16, and more than 2,000 campers attend each year. While most sessions are Sunday through Friday, there’s an option for kids attending more than one session to stay over the weekend. In addition, a three-day session is offered for rising kindergarteners and first-graders who may not be ready for a full week, York said.

The goal of camp is to build confidence, inspire independence and foster a spirit of acceptance and family. In addition to watersports and swimming, campers can participate in horseback riding, archery, high and low ropes courses, arts and crafts, ceramics and more. Older kids can even learn to ride and maintain minibikes, and there are separate trails for hiking, horseback riding and minibikes. An outdoor classroom helps campers learn about and develop a love of and appreciation for nature.

The fun isn’t just limited to the summer, though. Camp Cosby offers programs and special events all year long, including Winter Camp, offered during the holiday season, and Teen Retreats held over weekends in the fall and spring. The focus is on leadership, and participants learn employment and life skills, as well.

Not just for kids

One of the biggest draws, though, is Family Camp, offered in the spring and fall, when entire families can stay in a cabin and enjoy the outdoors together. “Some parents may have only been to camp for drop-off and pick-up,” York said. “This gives them an opportunity to enjoy some of the same experiences their kids do.”

It’s also a great way to disconnect from electronics and other distractions so family members can better connect with each other. “Sometimes families just want a weekend away,” York said. “It’s a nice respite when they can come and hang out, take some time to get outside, and get a break.”

Family Camp can also be a good way to give new or young campers a glimpse of what they would experience at summer camp. “By the time summer rolls around, they know what to expect and they remember how much fun it can be,” York said.

Camp is a wonderful way to help build relationships, whether with family, counselors or new friends. “We have staff and kids from all over the place. Many times, those camp friendships end up lasting longer than other friendships,” York said. She added that group activities, cabin time and team-building experiences help deepen bonds.

The camp employs more than 100 seasonal staff members, and they come from all over the region, country and world. “We’ve had staff from Australia, New Zealand, Europe, South America and Mexico,” York said. “I love seeing the counselors bonding with the kids and encouraging them to try new things. Growing up, the counselors I had at summer camp had a big influence in my life.”

In fact, camp, in general, made a big impact. “I have a passion for it,” York said. “It’s a fun way to meet people you might never meet otherwise, and it’s a cool way to try new things. Some of my best memories were made at summer camp. It had a big impact on me as a kid.” l

For more information about YMCA Camp Cosby and its programs, visit campcosby.ymcabham.org.