People around these parts tend to think of the lake as one big family, sharing a common bond. But on Dec. 30, that bond strengthened well beyond their love of water. As a tornado ripped through Coosa Island and other parts of the southern tip of Logan Martin, neighbors rushed out of their homes into the awaiting needs left in the storm’s wake.
Because it is a peninsula, downed trees, damaged roofs and homes blocked the roads and trapped the community until help could arrive. An army of neighbors, friends and first responders appeared within moments, chainsaws whirring and tarps quickly stretching across gaps where roofs once offered shelter.
Strangers joined neighbors with a singular focus – clearing the debris to help return the island to a sense of functionality as best they could.
That’s the kind of spirit we see up and down our lakes. It is more than water that draws us together, although that certainly was the starting point.
In the polarizing times in which we live, it was an inspiring story of people coming together with outstretched hands to offer help to those who needed it most. Simply put, they were Good Samaritans just doing their job.
Their story is featured in this issue of LakeLife 24/7 Magazine along with the people, places and events that make our lakes special places indeed.
Take a ride with pro angler Zeke Gossett for tips, tricks and trends in March and April on Logan Martin and Neely Henry to make the most of your fishing adventures.
Discover what’s in store on the banks of Neely Henry in Gadsden as officials enter the planning stages of a major development – Coosa Harbor.
Get ready for Logan Martin’s biggest event of the year – LakeFest. The Southeast’s largest in-water boat show and festival heads to Lakeside Park May 9-11.
In the case of this national event, where there’s smoke, there’s plenty of good food cooking. Smoke on the Falls is back for its 16th year April 11-12 at Noccalula Falls, a contest featuring pitmasters from all over the country. Kids man the grills, too, in this family-friendly event.
Head over to Talladega Superspeedway in March and see what’s cooking. It’s time for the Wild Game Cook-off from the Alabama Wildlife Federation. Sample the culinary concoctions featuring the state’s wild game and fish March 15.
And, of course, there’s plenty more in this issue of the magazine. Turn the page and discover it all with us!
Carol Pappas
Editor and Publisher
