Every so often, an idea comes along that just makes all kinds of sense. In 2010, when the Cahaba River Society sought to rethink our annual fundraising event, we wanted to create an event that brought people closer to the river. The Cahaba River Fry-Down was born.
You’ve been to barbecue festivals. You’ve been to chili cook-offs. But we’d be willing to bet one of our best canoes that, unless you were with us last year, you’ve never been part of a fry-down!
Last year, folks from all over the greater Birmingham area joined us in a beautiful setting at Trussville Springs beside the river for a day of music, education about how to protect the river and conserve water, fun activities in the river, and plenty of delicious food. Six teams competed to win our signature Fry-Down trophies, and their culinary efforts were judged by a distinguished panel including three of our local mayors, local chefs, a nutritionist, the Eat Birmingham food blogger, and a local pastor. The crowd loved the delectable samples of the fish and sides and free fish plates from Ezell’s Catfish Cabin.
2010 Fry-Down organizers, prizes, and distinguished panel of judges including George Sarris, Mayor William Bell, Mayor Eugene Melton, And Mayor Tony Petelos
Join us for Fry-Down 2011 and help us inspire lots of new friends to protect our water resources! The fish fry brings the crowd to the river, and many partners help CRS engage them in fun educational activities for all ages, to inspire stewardship for our Cahaba and our drinking water. Once again there will be a Small Fry area with games and hands-on activities in and beside the River, led by talented environmental educators. Displays, interactive learning and brief workshops will bring people information on all things water – like where drinking water comes from and how to keep it clean and abundant, how to build water-sustaining development, how to save water, energy and money through changes such as more efficient landscape practices, how to access the river for recreation, the biodiversity of our rivers and why it’s important, and better ways to manage storm runoff such as rain barrels and rain gardens. Come be a part of Fry-Down 2011’s success!