CEPA Summer Events Include the Return of Black Jacket Symphony

Summer at the Pell City Center for Education and Performing Arts (CEPA) will see three major events, including the return of Black Jacket Symphony. More at pellcitycepa.com.

June 15: Tristen Gressett & Delaney Renee

Pell City native and American Idol performer Tristen Gressett kicks off his second national tour on his home stage this summer. Before his run on the popular TV show in 2022, Gressett was a frequent face in local theater productions at CEPA. Since, he’s moved to Hollywood and has been recognized by the Alabama Music Hall of Fame. Gressett is touring with Massachusetts-based American Idol performer Delaney Renee.

July 7-18: Spotlight Kids Summer Drama Camp – “Finding Nemo Jr.”

CEPA’s Spotlight Kids Camp is an annual summer program where students ages 7-17 create a full musical in just under two weeks. This year’s camp will focus on the musical Finding Nemo Jr., an underwater adventure full of catchy songs, lively choreography, and heartwarming moments. Performances will be held Friday, July 18 at 6 PM and Saturday, July 19 at 2 PM.

August 9: The Black Jacket Symphony Presents Jimmy Buffett Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes

The Black Jacket Symphony returns to CEPA with an end-of-summer classic from legendary performer Jimmy Buffett. “Changes in Latitudes Changes in Attitudes” can be heard live in its entirety—note for note, sound for sound—plus a full set of greatest hits.

CEPA, its live events, and its arts education programs are supported by the City of Pell City through an annual appropriation.

Community Insights: A Conversation with St. Clair County June 2

The City of Pell City is excited to welcome a community conversation hosted by the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham (CFGB) on June 2, 2025.

The event will be held at the Pell City Municipal Complex on Monday, June 2, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.

The 2025 Class of Leadership St. Clair County, a program supported by the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham.

CFGB is actively working on its 10-year strategic plan, “Igniting passion for transformational change.” This plan was developed and implemented in 2020 with extensive input from residents across the region, including residents of St. Clair County.

The purpose of this meeting is to provide residents with an update on CFGB initiatives and to gather feedback.

CFGB has funded several impactful projects in St. Clair County, including:

  • Big Canoe Creek Preserve Partners: Supporting the design of an accessible trail to ensure that everyone, including those with mobility challenges, can connect with and enjoy our natural spaces.
  • Jefferson State Community College Foundation, Inc: Expanding access to in-demand healthcare career training by offering the Certified Medical Assistant certification program at the Pell City campus.
  • Leadership St Clair County Inc: Strengthening our community by supporting a leadership network and providing education on important local issues such as government, safety, and economic development.
  • St. Clair Community Health Clinic: Increasing mental health service capacity to serve diverse populations, including individuals at the county jail.
  • Pell City Schools: Providing support for Hope Squads at Pell City Intermediate and Middle Schools.

Residents are invited and encouraged to attend this meeting to learn more about current and future initiatives and share their perspectives.

Guide to 2025 Logan Martin LakeFest & Boat Show

Lakefest Returns to Pell City’s Lakeside Park This Weekend: May 9-11

The 2025 Logan Martin Lakefest & Boat Show will take place at Lakeside Park this weekend, running from Friday, May 9th through Sunday, May 11th. LakeFest is Pell City’s biggest annual event of the year, drawing 20,000 people or more to beautiful Lake Logan Martin across the three-day event.

In 2025, the City of Pell City has again partnered with Logan Martin Charity Foundation, the host of LakeFest, and The Pell City Parks & Recreation Department plays a central role in the setup and execution of Lakefest at Lakeside Park. The City extends its heartfelt thanks to organizers and staff, and welcomes everyone to enjoy an exciting weekend on the lake.

Here’s a look at this year’s event

The South’s Largest In-Water Boat Show

Lakefest features a scene for boaters like nothing else. The event has over 80 models on display with several available for test drive.

Live Music All Weekend

Throughout the weekend, Lakefest will feature live musical performances from local and regional artists. 

Friday: Patrick Smith (4 PM), Nacho Daddy (6 PM)

Saturday: Ian Cuthbertson (12 PM), Kudzu (3 PM), Get Sideways (6 PM)

FREE Splash Pad Entry (May 9-10)

This year’s event will include bracelets and time slots to allow everyone to enjoy. 

Friday, May 9: 2-4:30 PM, 4:30-7 PM

Saturday, May 10: 10 AM-12:30 PM, 1-3:30 PM, 4-7 PM

Fireworks 

The annual Friday Night Fireworks show will honor our Veterans from the Colonel Robert L. Howard Veterans Home in Pell City. The Show begins at approximately 9 PM.

Mermaids & Matey’s Parade (May 10)

Sponsored by St. Clair Tourism, this all-ages celebration features some of the best mermaid and pirate costumes from the region. The parade begins at 1 PM on Saturday, May 10.

Lake Lifestyle Vendors & Food Trucks

Dozens of vendors offering handcrafted arts and unique crafts.and a variety of gourmet food truck options will serve LakeFest attendees all weekend.

Lakeside Park is located at 2801 Stemley Bridge Rd, Pell City, AL 35054. Parking will be available on-site, with signage directing attendees. 

For more, visit loganmartinlakefest.com

Drone photography by Brian Muenger: https://www.youtube.com/@WBMuenger

Investing in the Future of D2: City hosting important discussion on April 12

In March 2025, residents of Pell City’s Glen City District were surprised when one of the most desirable properties in the neighborhood suddenly changed hands. They were even more surprised by the cost – only $30,000.

Without the documentation needed to secure the property following the passing of its owners, it went into foreclosure to satisfy the debts against it. Then, the property sold without much fanfare, its future unknown to its neighbors.

This experience isn’t an outlier in Pell City’s District 2, which has the highest rates of heirs’ property issues – family land – and has seen the lowest rate of new home construction in recent years.

Led by District 2 City Council Member Ivi Wilson, the City of Pell City will hold an informational meeting on April 12 at 1 p.m. at the Municipal Complex to discuss both the present and future of some of the City’s historic neighborhoods. Investing in the Future of D2 will feature presentations and discussions on how residents can protect, maintain, and develop property in their community.

Presenters include

  • Don Smith: executive Director, St. Clair County Economic Development Council. Presenting on: The Basics of Development
  • Dr. Jamie C. Mardis: Instructional Programs Outreach Administrator, Auburn University Extension. Presenting on: Heirs’ Property Ownership (click for more)
  • Brian Muenger and Ivi Wilson: Pell City City Manager and District 2 Council Member. Presenting on: New Home Construction in D2

All areas of municipal government will attend the meeting and be available to answer resident questions. All City residents are invited to join the discussion.

“Your presence matters,” said Council Member Ivi Wilson. “Please join us to help shape the future of our District. This is your opportunity to directly influence a plan and ensure it reflects the needs and aspirations of our residents.”

Annual LMLPA Logan Martin Lake Cleanup Set for March 29 – April 5, 2025

The Logan Martin Lake Protection Association (LMLPA) is gearing up for its annual lake cleanup, scheduled for March 29th through April 5th, 2025. This week-long effort encourages volunteers to help preserve the beauty and health of Logan Martin Lake.

Volunteers can register and pick up cleanup supplies, including T-shirts, collection bags, and gloves, at designated collection sites on two Saturdays: March 29th and April 5th, from 8:00 AM to noon.

“Maintaining the beauty and health of Logan Martin Lake isn’t a task for a few, it’s a responsibility we all share,” said LMLPA President Neal Stephenson. “The incredible turnout we see each year proves that when our community comes together, we can make a truly significant impact. Every bag of trash collected, every volunteer hour given, contributes to preserving this vital resource for generations to come.”

The cleanup will feature multiple collection sites around the lake, each with a designated Site Captain to assist volunteers. These locations include:

  • Lakeside Park: 2801 Stemley Bridge Rd. Cropwell AL 35054 (Site Captains: Isabella Trussel (205) 936-6651, Terry Harrell (205) 572-2658)

  • Clear Creek Marina: 270 Marina Dr, Talladega, AL 35160 (Site Captain: Randy Sparks (205) 616-2787)

  • Riverside Landing: 230 Depot St., Riverside, AL 35135 (Site Captain: Dee Parsons (205) 602-4245)

  • Wood’s Surfside Marina: 37 Marina Dr., Cropwell, AL 35054 (Site Captain: TBD, Mark Hildebrandt, Woods Surfside (205) 525-5533)

  • Blue I Eatery (old Caribe Club): 84 Blue Eye Rd W, Lincoln, AL 35096 (Site Captain: David Carboni (205) 910-2234)

  • Coosa Island Marina: 1052 Coosa Island Rd, Cropwell, AL 35054 (Site Captain: Angela Buzbee (205) 643-5991)

Cleanup Site Coordinators Arlene Johnson (205) 369-3703, arlenejg0917@gmail.com and Danny Norman (205) 451-2035, tr3hgr@yahoo.com can also be contacted for assistance and information.

The annual cleanup is a significant undertaking, with the 2024 event seeing over 335 volunteers collect more than 11 tons of debris from the lake. The LMLPA encourages everyone to participate in this important effort to maintain the beauty and ecological health of Logan Martin Lake.

Logan Martin Lake, part of the Coosa River System, is a 17,000-acre reservoir with 275 miles of shoreline, offering recreational opportunities such as boating, skiing, and swimming.

Dispose of Unwanted Items FREE: Pell City Spring Clean-Up April 4-6

Pell City residents will have the opportunity to declutter and dispose of unwanted items during the city’s annual Spring Clean-Up, scheduled for April 4th through 6th.

The event will run Friday, April 4th and Saturday, April 5th from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday, April 6th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Roll-off dumpsters will be available at the Pell City Street Department, located at 417 19th Street South, next to the Boys and Girls Club. Residents within city limits can bring household items, old appliances, scrap metal, and furniture.

ACCEPTED: Yard debris will also be accepted during this weekend only.

NOT ACCEPTED: Hazardous waste, including propane tanks, batteries, paint, used oils, and tires, will not be accepted. Construction materials such as lumber, fencing, and drywall are also prohibited.

In addition to the dumpsters, designated boxes will be available for electronic waste (E-Waste), including audio/video equipment, computers, cell phones, small appliances, and more. Properly disposing of e-waste is crucial to prevent toxic materials from leaching into the environment and to recover valuable resources for reuse.

A photo ID is required to use these services. For further information, residents can contact the Pell City Street Department at (205) 884-8267 or email jclemons@cityofpellcity.net.

LOCATION

Pell City Community Easter Egg Hunt: 10,000 Eggs Coming to Lakeside Park on April 6

Get ready for a delightful afternoon of springtime fun! The highly anticipated Pell City Community Easter Egg Hunt is returning for its second year, promising a basketful of joy for children and families. Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 6th, from 3:00-4:30 p.m. and plan to join us at the center of Lakeside Park to hunt for 10,000 eggs!

Participants are asked to bring their own baskets. Activities will include:

  • Easter Bunny meet and greet
  • Arts and crafts
  • Face painting
  • Popcorn and drinks
  • Kona Ice
  • Bubble activities
  • Chalk art
  • Displays from the Pell City Fire Department and Pell City Police Department
  • Prize eggs

A designated area for children with special needs will be available.

The Community Easter Egg Hunt is a collaborative effort between the City of Pell City and the St. Clair County Ministerial Association. Following a successful event in 2024, the Association partnered with the City to bring the Easter Egg Hunt back to the community.

This heartwarming event is made possible by the dedication of local churches and congregations, including Faith Community Fellowship, Pell City First United Methodist Church, New Life Methodist, and Coosa Valley Church of God. It includes the support of more than 60 volunteers lending a hand and additional assistance from Coca-Cola Bottling Company United. 

“This event is a collaborative effort by the City and local churches to give back to the children of our community,” said Pell City Civic Center Director and key organizer Valerie Painter. “It’s a perfect opportunity for families to create lasting memories and celebrate the joy of the season.”

RAIN DATE: Saturday, April 19. 10:00-11:30 a.m.

Pell City joins in the Alabama Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday this February

From Friday, Feb. 21, to Sunday, Feb. 23, Pell City will observe its 10th annual Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday.

The Alabama Department of Revenue launched the tax holiday in 2012 to help residents prepare for the potential impact of seasonal storms. During this three-day tax holiday, residents are encouraged to restock emergency supplies in homes, workplaces, and vehicles.

From 12:01 a.m. Feb. 21 to midnight Feb. 23, the tax-exempt items include the following priced at $60 or less:

  • Flashlights, lanterns
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Batteries
  • First-aid kits
  • Cell phone charger
  • Two-way radios
  • Manual can openers
  • Tarps and plastic sheeting
  • Duct tape
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Tie-down kits, bungee cords or rope

Other tax-free items include: Coolers, ice packs, plywood, window film and smoke/fire/carbon monoxide detectors. Portable generators and power cords costing $1,000 or less are also tax free.

Many of the items that ready.gov recommends for a basic disaster supply kit are tax-free in Alabama Feb. 21-23.

Alabama Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday

Dancing with our Stars 2025 set for March 1 at CEPA

Dancing With Our Stars, the annual tradition where the area’s best and boldest dancers come together for a cause, returns to CEPA in Pell City on March 1. 

This annual event, now in its 11th year, has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support organizations like the Pell City Police Department, Pell City Fire Department, and the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office. Each year, the Pell City Line Dancers, long led by director Doris Munkus, turn their love of dancing into a fundraising effort for all kinds of good things in the community.

Sponsorships are still available at three levels: Friend Sponsor ($750), Championship Sponsor ($1,000), and Hero Sponsor ($1,500). All packages include event seating and promotional considerations.

Tickets are $30 online at pellcitycepa.com/tickets or $35 at the door.

To register dancers, purchase tickets or sponsorships, or make other donations, contact Munkus at (205) 473-4063 or email dorito30711@gmail.com.

Boots and Bows: 2025 Rotary Father Daughter Dance arrives Feb. 8

Now in its 10th year, the Father-Daughter Dance returns to Pell City on Feb. 8 with an exciting new theme: Boots and Bows (Plus a Little Disco).

Hosted annually by the Pell City Rotary Club, this year’s dance promises to delight couples (or trios and beyond) with a blend of country charm and disco sparkle.

Rotarians transform Pell City High School into a gala event venue, serve dance attendees dinner, and offer plenty of music and dancing throughout the night. The entire evening is dedicated to fathers and daughters making memories together that last a lifetime.

Proceeds from the event support the Pell City Rotary Foundation, which provides numerous community grants each year to organizations such as The Children’s Place, Pell City School System, Lakeside Hospice, Pell City Police Department, and many more.

Last year, Pell City Rotary partnered with the City of Pell City to finalize downtown streetscape improvements, installing 20 black, cast-iron benches and 11 matching litter containers along Cogswell Ave.

City, Rotary partner to finalize downtown streetscape improvements

Space is limited, so buy your tickets now! Tickets are $30 per couple ($15 for each additional child) or $40 at the door ($20 for each additional child) and include music, finger foods, party favors, and photographs. 

They can be purchased at Metro Bank in Pell City, Pell City Coffee Company, online at pellcityrotary.com, pellcitycepa.com/tickets, or by contacting Meg Clements at (205) 812-5187.