Category: Events

St. Clair County Fair

Event returns bigger and better

Story by Paul South
Submitted and Staff Photos

Jodi Shirley had a dream. Her perseverance turned it into reality.

Her daughter raised and showed lambs at county fairs across Alabama and in Mississippi, Georgia and Tennessee, but not close to home. “We didn’t have a local fair for these kids to show [their livestock],” she said. “Our livestock kids did not have their own fair to show sheep, cattle, and hogs. I said, ‘We’ve got to change that.’”

And they did. The St. Clair County Fair now enters its third year.

Shirley serves as the assistant coordinator of the St. Clair County Soil and Water Conservation District and is chairperson of the St. Clair County Fair Committee.

The fair is set for October 2 and 3 at the St. Clair County Agriculture Multi-Event Center at 100 Arena Drive in Odenville.

“It took us a few years to get things together,” she said. “It took us a year and a half or two years before we actually got it off the ground. We just pulled different community leaders together.”

Those leaders came from the county’s agricultural community – the St. Clair County Cattleman’s Association, the Women’s Committee of the Alabama Farmers Federation, the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, Future Farmers of America and the county’s business community.

As a result, fair admission, parking and rides are free. And the fair celebrates St. Clair’s rich farming heritage, giving blue ribbon honors to everything from pies to pigs to pickles, quilts to crafts.

Fairgoers can feast on everything from corn dogs to cotton candy, to funnel cakes and caramel apples, staples of fair menus. Music for every taste from gospel to rock ‘n’ roll will fill the autumn air.

Families only have to pay for food, games or to buy crafts and other products. “We just brainstormed and said a lot of prayers, and it just all came together somehow,” Shirley said.

In each of its first two years, the fair attracted 5,000 folks and rave reviews.

“It’s been very positive,” she said. “We’d love to have a Ferris wheel. And people want better rides. But in year three, we’re taking baby steps.”

In its early years, the fair featured a rock-climbing wall, spinning teacups and a mechanical bull, swings, mini airplanes and bounce houses.

“The whole feel-good county fair is what we’re going for with the corn dogs and the lemonade and the funnel cakes and the candy apples, of course. Those are real important.”

Full disclosure: Shirley is a confessed candy apple aficionado. But while apples may have her taste buds, the livestock showing has her heart.

“The [agriculture] world is my favorite,” she said. “Watching these kids get out there and present their animals and work super hard. Most of the work is behind the scenes. All of the dedication and work is put in at home typically.”

Part of the fair’s mission is to educate the community about the county’s agriculture, roots that run deep in St. Clair County. Local farmers demonstrated milking. Herding dogs showed off their skills. Plus, there’s a petting zoo.

“We love to educate the community about what it is, because a lot of people don’t know what livestock showing is, or what it’s about,” Shirley said. “There are so many people who go to the grocery store and think those items just happen to be there. But there’s somebody somewhere who’s worked from daylight to dark to make that happen. It’s nice to see the whole picture.”

Along with support from the business and agriculture community, a small army of volunteers makes the fair go. “Everybody knows their part,” Shirley said.

Bo Lindsey, a self-described “farm girl who learned to ride a cow before I could ride a horse” while spending time on her grandparents’ farm in Shoal Creek Valley, has been a fair volunteer from the start.

She shuttles families from the parking area to the fair and sees a change in families after a fun night. Free admission helps spark the fun, especially in these tough economic times.

“That’s the joy of it right there,” Lindsey said. “You’ve got families that can’t afford to take their kids nowhere because they’re trying to make ends meet. Let those kids wear themselves out.”

She recalled times when fairgoers would try to pay for parking. “You see when they open their wallet there ain’t much in there,” Lindsey said.

And when they find out about free parking and admission and rides? “They light up and thank us,” she said. “It’s not us. God made it happen. You see it in people’s eyes. To see Mama and Daddy able to tell their kids, ‘Cut loose.’ That makes it worth it to me.”

Lindsey has a treasure trove of stories from her time as a volunteer. Free admission makes a difference. “There was a lady who had four kids,” Lindsey remembered. “Her husband was working two jobs. She had to take her kids … People just don’t have money anymore.”

The fair is a no-stress, unhurried, affordable family event.

She described the fair’s free rides as “bodacious,” adding, “I was talking to one lady who had five kids. She was trying to figure out how much it would cost for the rides. I told her, ‘It don’t cost you a dime. Put your kids on ‘em.’ That was just fun.”

Lindsey carries memories of the inaugural fair in her heart. “You will never top the first year,” she said. “It was just raw and innocent and joy and peace,” she said.

That joy and peace were sparked by something desperately needed these days. “Unity,” Lindsey said. “There just was. There were people who were your neighbors that you got to talk to. You got to meet their kids. I saw Mamas and Daddies talking while their kids were riding rides.”

At the end of the day, beyond the food and fun and neighbors meeting neighbors, Shirley hopes folks will see agriculture beyond farmers and tractors and big fields.

“It goes so much beyond that. From the pencils we write with to the sports that we play that depend on the hides from some of these animals to the helmets we use to protect our children, everything starts with ag.”

But it’s even more than that, she said. “Not to be religious, but truly, God gave us this beautiful land and all of these creatures and all of these herbs for us to grow our food,” Shirley said. “That’s where it all starts. This is to celebrate that. I hope people come away with a better understanding of what agriculture truly is.”

Why is the fair important? “Because it is the community,” Lindsey said. “Everybody’s gotten away from this, and you end up with people who don’t know each other. That’s not community. This (the fair) is what communities are supposed to do. You’re supposed to get together, get to know each other, spend some time with each other. That doesn’t mean you have to talk to everybody that comes to the fair. But you’re going to meet some people you ain’t never talked to, and it’s fun just to get to know folks.”

Driving the shuttle, picking up families at the end of the evening, Lindsey notices something. They leave with a pocketful of memories.

“When they first get there, the kids are all excited, right?” Lindsey said. “At the end, the kids are worn out and excited. But the Moms and Dads? They’re at peace. You know you’ve done something right when you ask Mom and Dad if they had a good time.

“They look at each other and smile and go, ‘Yeah. We did.’”

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Women who wear hats

A tribute to tradition, culture, generations

Story and photos
by Carol Pappas

It’s a tradition whose roots run deep in history, culture and the church. Some might think it’s simply fashion, but for generations of Black women, donning beautiful, often elaborate hats, it’s an expression of identity, dignity and faith.

Ernestine O’Neal and her niece, Sherrell O’Neal, posing with the hat and photo of Ernestine’s mother and Sherrell’s grandmother, Annie O’Neal

The hats they wore to church on Sundays were a reflection of who they were – their personality – and each was distinctive, just like the women who wore them.

At First Baptist Church South in Pell City, members of the church wanted to capture the essence of that tradition in their own church and planned to have some of the women wear their ‘crowns’ on Mother’s Day. It was an idea church member Paula Jackson had, and the Women’s Ministry followed through with an impressive exhibit.

Illness caused the church’s original plan to change, and Women’s Ministry Leader Jennifer Gover decided to expand the reach, contacting women throughout the community to recruit for its “Women Who Wear Hats” exhibit. With the help of her niece, Chrissa Posey, the momentum grew into an exhibit on May 2, May 3 and Mother’s Day, May 10, to pay tribute to these women and their hats with 91 hats displayed from the women of 14 different churches.

“My lifesaver is my niece, Chrissa Posey, who has artistic inclinations and decided placement of the hats and suits,” Gover said. “She even prepared and set up refreshments for the exhibit.” Her behind the scenes work contributed greatly to the success of the event.

Elic Smith with the stunning suit and hat of his mother, Blossie Smith

From feathers to jewels to embroidery and lace, the hats ranged from simple, but elegant to elaborate and billowy. “We thought it was impressive,” said Gover. “It shows how the personalities are different. It wasn’t just something they wear on their head, but something from the heart.”

Nearby, a table of framed photos of the featured women – most in their signature hats – seemed to watch over the room as if surveying the handiwork that brought the event to fruition.

Elic Smith displayed the hat and stunning, matching suit worn by his 86-year-old mother, Blossie Smith. He couldn’t disguise the smile as he recounted his mother’s Sunday attire. “Miss B – You would have thought she would have been first lady.”

It’s a tradition that spans generations from slavery to present day, explained Charlotte Crawford. It was an outward expression of who they were within – “a classy, dignified lady. Each hat represents how they carried themselves. Ruby Sawyer Fomby always wore hats,” she said of her own mother.

Janice Carter echoed the recollections of others as she talked about her mother, Elnora Carter. “Mama wasn’t going to church without a hat or a suit.” Her grandmother, Mary Singleton, would buy two suits just alike and take a cuff or a piece from one and fix the other “just the way she wanted it.”

Elnora was a singer with B.J. and the Countryettes. “When she was singing, she had her hat, too.” It was like her personal signature for every performance.

“I grew up in a church where older women wore hats,” recalled Ernestine O’Neal. “You never wore pants to church.” The hats of Ernestine’s mother, Annie O’Neal, were a part of the exhibit. Annie was Sherrell O’Neal’s grandmother, and she noted that hats only came in one size, so women would sew or fasten material inside to make it fit tight.

Charlotte Crawford, daughter of Ruby Sawyer Fomby

To demonstrate, Sherrell tried on one such hat – a dainty, circular piece covered in blue feathers with a piece of felt placed inside – a perfect fit!

Bobbie Jo Swain of First Baptist Cropwell had the largest collection in the exhibit. Some in the overall display were vintage – 50 to 60 years old. Estelle Forman pointed to the hats of her mother, Bernice Joiner, and mother-in-law, Lizzie Forman, whose hats were featured in the display. Like the others, they were perfect fits for the way they carried themselves, she said.

An opening reception attended by 50 ladies – some of whom donated hats along with family, friends and others – shared precious memories the exhibit evoked.

One of the women asked if she could peek inside a straw hat with pink flowers. The label said Jack McConnell, a well-known milliner active in the mid to late 20^th century. The hat’s owner was Caroline Gover’s mother, Della Jordan Gover. Caroline recalled it was bought 25 to 30 years ago at a small hat shop in Birmingham.

These women were serious about their hats, and they invested to get just the right one. They often shopped at a store in Ensley called Cotton’s. Later, they bought their hats locally from Kenwin’s or Mays and Jones with prices ranging from $50 to well over $200.

“They were willing to spend money on these hats,” Jennifer Gover said, and with good reason. It was as much a part of their personality as their smile, a laugh or a word of advice remembered long after they are gone.

“Today, women do not wear hats to church services as they did in the past,” Gover said. “We dress more casual, except for special occasions. But there are still a few who hold on to the tradition of bold and beautiful hats to complement exquisite suits or dresses.”

Remember, she said, “a hat is an expression of a black woman’s soul. It is something she wears on her head but belongs to her heart. It is the keynote of her personality – the finishing touch.”

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Logan Martin Longbeards succcess

Honoring Barnett Lawley for years of service

Story and photos
By Graham Hadley

Decades after helping launch the original National Wild Turkey Federation chapter in the Pell City area, Barnett Lawley was honored by a new generation of conservationists during the Logan Martin Longbeards’ sold-out Hunting Heritage Banquet at the Pell City Civic Center.

“Barnett has done so much for the state and the county to promote conservation efforts here,” said chapter President Jim Tollison.

“He started the first chapter here. When I was helping organize the chapter again, I did not know he organized the original chapter or what he called it. I ended up picking the exact same name he used – Logan Martin Longbeards.

Board members and organizers Tracy Marcus, Rodney Bunt, Jim Tollison, Brooke Tollison, Tim Smith, Brittany Smith, Karlee Tucker, Logan Tucker, Hanna Grogan and Cameron Edge

“When I found all that out, I said we need to thank him for that” and everything else he has done. “There is no telling how many kids from around here he has taken turkey hunting over the years. Some of them are the same people who are donors and sponsors for this event now. His efforts back then are still helping conservation and the NWTF today.”

Tollison was quick to point out it is not just Barnett, but everyone in his family who deserves thanks for supporting the community.

“He was teaching about conservation, and his wife, Deanna, was teaching students in the classroom. She probably is one of the main reasons I went to college. She kept encouraging me to go. This organization and event, it’s been a great situation having the Lawleys involved,” Tollison said.

The sold-out event moved to a larger venue this year at the Pell City Civic Center, raising more than $40,000 for the program, which covers everything from promoting conservation and hunting to education efforts, including local scholarships, Tollison said.

Participants entering in drawings to win everything from coolers to custom firearms

“We now have money in hand for scholarships, we just need people here to apply. And these scholarships can be used not just for four-year colleges, but for two-year degrees and trade schools, whatever path the students choose.”

Tollison and his wife, Brooke, thanked everyone who supported the Logan Martin Longbeards and the banquet.

“The Pell City Civic Center turned out to be a great venue. We will probably be holding it here again next year. They did a great job working with Hanna Grogan on our board to coordinate set up,” he said. “Complete Catering Company and Mandy Camp also did an amazing job with the food. It’s the only banquet I have ever been to that served turkey. It wasn’t wild, but it was good.

“Everything was well received. Thanks to our sponsors, we were able to give out 24 guns this year. Brian at BG Customs and Engraving put together several guns for us. GNX Gun Exchange and Coosa Guns also contributed,” he said.

“Thanks to the support of GNX, BG Customs and Coosa Guns we are able to have some very high-quality firearms with some finishes only available at this event.”

Because the banquet is family friendly, every child who came got to take part in a raffle, Brooke, who runs an Alfa agency in Pell City, said. “We gave out $500 worth of stuff to all the kids. They had a great time.”

And that’s the point, Jim said.

“It’s not just about raising money. We wanted to have a fun and successful event that also promotes the National Wild Turkey Federation and conservation efforts,” he said.

“We have a great team putting this event on, and it continues to grow. If you see one of the board members and are interested in being involved let them know.”

Follow the Logan Martin Longbeards on Facebook and the National Wild Turkey Federation online at nwtf.org.

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Test of agility

Fast paced, exciting dog agility trial takes center ring at arena

Story by Carol Pappas
Photos by Bob Crisp

Four-footed competitors from across the Southeast headed to Odenville in April for an action-packed event at what has become a destination point for events as diverse and wide-ranging as the organizers who plan them.

St. Clair County Arena and Event Center has played host to everything from rodeos and circuses to vintage markets and truck shows. And in April, dogs of all shapes and sizes took to the arena filled with jumps, tunnels, weave poles and what planners called “plenty of tail-wagging excitement.”

Spectators, dog lovers and handlers came together for three days of Greater Birmingham Agility Club’s Spring Into Agility Trial, a mixture of a qualifying run for further competition, fine-tuning skills or simply sharing time with other dog agility enthusiasts. Organizers billed it as “a weekend of fast dogs, great runs, and even better community.”

Dog agility is “a dynamic and fast-paced canine sport where dogs navigate through a timed obstacle course, showcasing their agility, speed, and teamwork with their handlers,” according to GBAC’s website.

“Yes, your dog can definitely participate in dog agility,” GBAC added, “and we welcome all breeds, both mixed and pure, to join the excitement and fun of agility training and competitions.”

Agility training involves obstacle courses, obedience drills and agility trials.

When the day is done, the final hurdle crossed and a clean jump through the ring is made, it comes down to connections – the bond between dog and handler. Through this sport, that bond is promoted, strengthened and on display for all to see.

The next Odenville event is Nov. 15-17 for GBAC’s Fall Trial. Club officials are already looking forward to it, noting that the 100 x 100-foot ring offers plenty of room for “exciting and challenging courses for the dogs to navigate.

“This event promises an exhilarating experience for both competitors and spectators, making it a must-attend for the agility community.”

“We’ve really enjoyed working with the Greater Birmingham Agility Club and have had a great response from them about hosting events at the Arena,” said Public/Recreation Asset Manager Ashley Hay. “We try to work closely with every group that uses the facility to make sure we’re meeting their specific needs, especially when it comes to footing and ground preparation.”

She noted that dog agility trials have very specific requirements, “and we’re happy to accommodate those details, just like we would for any group using the space. Seeing them choose to return is a great sign that the partnership is working.”

The goal of the center complex and campus has centered on creating a facility that serves the community and evolves alongside the needs of the people and organizations using it.

“We want groups to know we’re listening and willing to adapt where we can,” she said. “In fact, groups like GBAC have helped shape some of our future improvements.” She credits their hosting of multi-day events and bringing participants in from outside the area with reinforcing the need for RV and trailer hookups, “which we’re now working to add.”

Hay also talked of the overall interest in the Arena continuing to grow. “More people realize it’s more than just a place that hosts rodeos. We’ve had great interest across a wide variety of events, from dog agility and vintage markets to equestrian events and community gatherings. It’s been exciting to see people discover new uses for the space and reinforces our belief that the Arena can continue growing as a place that brings together a wide range of interests across our community.”

Editor’s Note: The St. Clair Arena and Event Center is located at 100 Arena Drive, Odenville. Learn more about the facilities at: stclairco.recdesk.com

Features

Pell City Hometown Block Party

27 years of celebrating community

Story by Cherith Fluker
Submitted Photos

For the 27th year, the Pell City Hometown Block Party is back. Once again, downtown Pell City will transform into a celebration of community, culture and hometown pride.

On June 6, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., the city’s historic downtown corridor will resonate with live music, local vendors, food, family-friendly activities and the energy that has made this event one of Pell City’s longest-running traditions.

But beyond the entertainment and festivities, organizers say the heart of the Block Party has always been rooted in something deeper.

So, what makes this event so special?

According to Urainah Glidewell, executive director of the Pell City Chamber of Commerce and coordinator of the event, it all comes down to the people.

“Pell City is a thriving community filled with people and businesses that contribute to our city’s growth,” Glidewell said. “Nonetheless, we find a way to stay true to the city’s origins.”

That balance between progress and preservation is part of why the Block Party has remained in downtown Pell City for nearly three decades.

“We have so many historic buildings that are not only beautiful, but still occupied by thriving businesses,” she said. “Hosting the event downtown allows us to bring attention to those spaces and celebrate the history that continues to shape who we are today.”

As the Block Party enters its 27th year, organizers are focused on expanding what the celebration represents while holding tight to its original purpose: bringing people together.

“This event is one of the oldest traditions we have,” Glidewell said. “We have so many wonderful resources: our beautiful lake, our economic growth and our amenities. But our greatest resource is our people. Everyone shows up to support, and there’s just a genuine friendliness that fills the streets.”

That spirit of connection is shaping new ideas for 2026, including the launch of an “I Love Pell City” campaign, an initiative designed to spotlight what residents love most about their hometown.

From the lake and local schools to downtown and small-town charm, the campaign aims to give attendees tangible ways to show their pride through pins, stickers and community engagement.

What’s new?

While many beloved traditions return, this year’s Block Party will introduce several refreshed experiences designed to deepen community participation. Among the highlights is the return of the popular car show. “This year, we’re relocating the car show to an area that will be safer for attendees and logistically easier to access,” Glidewell said. A portion of the proceeds from the car show will benefit The Children’s Place, a local non-profit organization focused on helping children and families affected by abuse.

From food trucks, vendors to children’s rides, a fun night for all

Of course, the event will also continue with its tradition of showcasing local musical talent. “There are so many wonderful artists, singers and bands who began right here in Pell City,” Glidewell said. “We want to celebrate that talent and give them a platform.” Entertainment will span multiple genres, including rock, country, gospel and R&B.

This year’s event will also include an expanded kids’ play area. New for 2026, Glidewell shared that organizers are intentionally creating activities designed to engage teens as well.

“We’re really working to find ways to get our teens involved,” she said. “From games and team-building activities to Giant Jenga and Connect 4, we want to make sure they have something fun to do.”

“There will truly be something for everyone,” she added.

Dancing in the streets

One highlight Glidewell is especially excited about is the addition of community line dancing, led by local line dancing groups. Two confirmed groups bringing the energy are the Pell City Line Dancers and Konnect 2 Dance.

At designated times throughout the event, attendees will be invited to step onto the dance floor together. “We want to get people moving, laughing and connecting,” Glidewell said. “What better way to do that than with a good line dance?”

Vendors, makers and marketplace finds

Approximately 75 vendors are expected for the 2026 event, showcasing a blend of returning favorites and new participants. Attendees can stroll through booths featuring local artisans and makers, along with a variety of food trucks and specialty treats.

To improve the experience, organizers are reconfiguring the event layout for better walkability and traffic flow, making it easier for guests to navigate and enjoy all that downtown has to offer.

Powered by Community Partnerships

The Block Party’s longevity is made possible through strong partnerships with local organizations and sponsors. “We’re blessed to have wonderful partners who help make this event possible,” Glidewell said.

Ongoing collaborations with the City of Pell City, WinSouth Credit Union, Union State Bank and downtown businesses help us bring this event to life and improve it year after year.

Get Involved

Volunteer opportunities are available for those who want to support the event behind the scenes. Roles include setup, vendor assistance, logistics and breakdown support.

Interested volunteers may email info@pellcitychamber.com.

Vendor registration is also open, with booth fees set at $50. Participants must hold a city business license and can register through the Chamber’s website.

Event updates, vendor lists and entertainment announcements will be shared via the Pell City Chamber’s website and social media channels.

A growing tradition

The Pell City Hometown Block Party continues to evolve while staying rooted in its original mission: celebrating the people, places and pride that define the community.

From line dancing in the streets to supporting local artists and businesses, the event serves as both a reflection of Pell City’s past and a celebration of its future.

“This event is about celebrating who we are,” Glidewell said. “And inviting everyone to be part of it.”

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Dancing With Our Stars

Returns to Pell City for 12th Year

Story by Cherith Glover Fluker
Submitted Photos

Looking for a high-energy evening that brings the community together while supporting a meaningful cause? Dancing With Our Stars, Pell City’s version of the popular television show Dancing With the Stars, returns for its 12th year this spring, continuing a beloved local tradition with a few thoughtful updates.

The event will take place on March 14 at 6 p.m. at the Center for Education and Performing Arts (CEPA).

For more than a decade, Dancing With Our Stars has showcased performers from Pell City and surrounding areas in a fun competition that celebrates creativity, connection and community pride. While the Pell City Line Dancers organized and headlined the event for its first 11 years, this marks the first year CEPA has taken on full responsibility for planning and hosting the event.

CEPA Executive Director Ash Arrington says the transition feels like a natural next step. “We’re excited to expand off the stage and get into the community planning this event,” Arrington said. “It’s always been our goal to reach more people, and having this under the CEPA brand adds a level of legitimacy to our desire to serve the community in new ways.”

CEPA Assistant Director Maci Johnsey acknowledged that taking on the event has been a big challenge for the organization’s small staff, but also a rewarding one. “It’s been a lot to take on, but that also makes it more personal,” Johnsey said. “We have a small committee, which makes communication easy, and everyone involved really cares about keeping the heart of the event intact.”

What is New This Year

This year’s program introduces expanded performance categories, with group sizes classified as Duo/Trio, Small Group (3–15 participants) and Large Group (16–30 participants). The number of participating groups will also be capped to keep the total runtime at approximately 2.5 hours.

The event is open to community members who want to participate. Groups perform a short routine of their choice. Registration is free and open until capacity is reached. Participants can register at www.pellcitycepa.com, where full performance guidelines are available, or in person at the CEPA Box Office. Questions may be directed to Johnsey at maci@pellcitycepa.com.

“We want to keep the event fun while also keeping the audience engaged,” Arrington said.

Judging will include first-, second-, and third-place awards, along with several special recognitions. Winners will be selected by celebrity community judges, and awards will be given in each category.

Audiences can expect a diverse lineup of performers, including children, professional dancers, neighborhood groups, local schools and dance studios. Returning favorites include Red Apple Dance, an Asian dance group based in Birmingham, along with the Pell City Line Dancers. Both groups remain a cornerstone of the event.

Giving Back to the Community

In keeping with CEPA’s mission, proceeds from the event will benefit organizations whose work aligns with community enrichment. This year’s primary beneficiary is the Pell City Education Foundation, with a junior recipient, The Hartzog Foundation.

“We love spotlighting these organizations and bringing awareness to the incredible work they’re doing right here in our community,” Arrington said.

In addition to the dance performances, the evening will feature a silent auction, concessions and beer and wine available for purchase.

A Night That Brings People Together

For Johnsey and Arrington, the impact of Dancing With Our Stars goes beyond dance. “People show up year after year to support their family and friends,” Johnsey said. “It’s a tradition.”

Arrington agrees and says one of her favorite moments is greeting attendees as they arrive. “So much work happens behind the scenes,” she said. “Seeing people walk through the doors and watching the program come together makes it all worth it.”

In a time when connection feels especially important, Dancing With Our Stars continues to offer something simple and powerful: a reason for the community to come together, celebrate one another, and support causes that matter. lfluence generations to come. Hold fast to your dreams and keep on collecting history. Your dream has strong wings.

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