Faces & Places 2015 by The Clanton Advertiser

A complete guide to

Chilton County for visitors, residents and newcomers

a special publication of

FACES & PLACES 2015 Chilton County................Penton Farms........................................................................................................5 Clanton...................... San Juan Mission......................................................................................................18 Jemison............. Victory Baptist Church......................................................................................................26 Maplesville........................Taylor-Made......................................................................................................30 Thorsby................................Dari-Delite......................................................................................................34 Important telephone numbers...................................................................................................................38

FACES AND PLACES 2015

CHILTON COUNTY

All in the family

Verbena farmers provide produce for customers throughout the state

STORY BY EMILY REED PHOTO BY EMILY REED

erbena farmers Scott and Rachell Penton are always looking for new ways to get their produce to customers. “We spend a lot of time trying to figure out new and fresh ways to do things,” Rachell Penton said. “Our customers like knowing where the food they eat comes from, and we enjoy providing them with produce they like to eat.” Perhaps the concept of “new” and “fresh” also translates to the Penton family who bring a younger face to farming. “We are younger than a lot of farmers,” Rachell, who is in her mid-to-late 30s, said. “I think a lot of people associate farming with an older generation, but we try to involve our whole family in it.” Scott and Rachell started farming about 14 years ago when they decided to grow peaches, and have gradually expanded into a U-Pick strawberry farm, as well as growing an array of fruits and vegetables. “We grow just about every kind of vegetable you can think of,” Scott Penton said. “You name it, we grow it.” The couple’s two children, Austin Penton, 17, and Courtney Penton, 14, also help with daily operations at the farm and are responsible for all of the vegetable picking. “Everyone has a job, and we really don’t know what we would do without our kids because they help us so much,” Rachell said. “They have grown up helping, and now they will get their friends to come help pick vegetables.” The family also spends their weeks during the summer attending various farmer’s markets across Alabama. “Right now, we go to seven markets throughout the week,” Scott said. “It definitely keeps us busy.” A typical day at the Penton home varies

The Penton family includes Austin, Rachell, Scott and Courtney. The family spends their weeks during the summer attending various farmer’s markets across Alabama representing their farm, Penton Farms in Verbena. FACES AND PLACES 2015

CHILTON COUNTY for each family member, but everyone has a different responsibility to help see that the farm operates smoothly. Scott often wakes up in the early morning hours around 4:30 or 5 a.m. and does not stop working most days until 10 p.m. Every Saturday, Rachell wakes up at 3:30 a.m. to transport the family’s produce from Verbena to Birmingham for Pepper Place Market. Austin and Courtney also spend each day making sure the vegetable crops are taken care of, and help their parents by attending other farmer’s markets throughout the week. “It is hard work, but we all work at it,” Rachell said. “It isn’t easy when the weather is hot outside, but we enjoy working together. It is a family operation for sure.” Probably the most enjoyable part of the job for the Penton family is the friendly faces they see and interact with at the markets throughout the week. “I think that is what we love the most,” Rachell said. “We have a lot of returning customers who always stop by and check in with us. Since we have been going to the markets, we have a lot of people who have watched our children grow up. We would take our kids to the markets when they were younger and throughout the years, people who buy from us have seen them grow up. We feel very blessed to have so many returning customers, and we get a blessing from knowing them.” The Penton family is always working to bring new ideas or farming techniques to Penton Farms. “We are always studying the newest techniques,” Scott said. “We like to keep up with new approaches.” Even with the new approaches and techniques, the Penton family agrees one thing will always stay the same: good produce. “People like to eat what tastes good,” Rachell said. “They enjoy knowing where their food comes from, and who grew it, and we just want to work hard to make sure we are providing them with the quality they want and expect.” For updates about the strawberry farm, “Sugar Hill U-Pick,” which is typically open from April until the first part of June, visit Sugar Hill U-Pick Farm on Facebook. The Penton family can also be found at these farmer’s markets throughout the 6 FACES AND PLACES 2015

The Pentons sell their produce at farmer’s markets across the state. (Contributed)

summer and into the early fall: uPepper Place Market in Birmingham is open May-October every Saturday from 7 a.m. until noon. The market is open rain or shine and is located at 2829 Second Ave. S. in Birmingham. u Eastchase Farmers Market in Montgomery is open May 16-Aug. 29 every Saturday from 7 a.m. until noon. The market is located at 7274 Eastchase Parkway. uRocky Ridge Church in Hoover every Tuesday from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. The market is located at 2404 Altadena Road in Hoover. uCross Creek Community Church Farmer’s Market in Pelham held every

Tuesday beginning May 19 from 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. The market is held at Crosscreek Baptist Church’s parking lot, 600 Crosscreek Trail in Pelham. uLinn Place Market located at 20th St. N. at Park Place in Birmingham. The market is held Wednesdays from 8 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. uThe Millbrook Farmer’s Market on the Village Green every Tuesday from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. beginning May 25 and ending August 31. uThe Waters in Pike Road each Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. The Waters is a new home community in Pike Road, located just a few minutes from Montgomery.

CHILTON COUNTY FAST FACTS County Courthouse 500 2nd Avenue N Clanton, AL 35046 Mailing address P.O. Box 1948 Clanton, AL 35046 Phone number (205) 755-1551 Website www.newchiltoncounty.org

Population 43,931 (2014 estimate) Land area 693.98 square miles Commission Chairman Allen Caton (205) 351-2107

County Commission Joe Headley (205) 287-1689 Bobby Agee (205) 299-1242 Joseph Parnell (205) 688-6991 Heedy Hayes (205) 288-8127 Greg Moore (205) 351-1266 Shannon Welch (205) 287-1412

C onfederate M emorial P ark

he Alabama Historical Commission’s Confederate Memorial Park near Verbena equips a museum, research facility, authentic historical structures, ruins and two cemeteries with more than 300 Confederate soldiers.The 102-acre park hosts both local guests and tourists, and has the only museum in Alabama that is strictly devoted to the Civil War. New additions to the park include a

pavilion for visitor use, signs built along Interstate 65 North and South attracting tourists, a replica of Civil War barracks and a nature trail. The park hosts an annual battle in April to offer an up-close and personal view of the Civil War. Confederate Memorial Park is located at 437 County Road 63 near Verbena. For more information about the park, call 205-755-1990.

L ake M itchell

ake Mitchell is a component of the Coosa River that lies 10 miles east of Clanton. The 5,850-acre lake averages 29 feet in depth and includes 147 miles of shoreline. Alabama Power constructed Lay Dam in 1923 to provide flood control and hydroelectricity to central Alabama. Since then, Lake Mitchell has become

a source of recreation with attractions such as boating, swimming, and fishing. The lake supports high densities of sport fish, such as largemouth bass, spotted bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, walleye, striped bass, hybrid, and white bass. The Lay Dam tailwater area at the upper end of the lake is a popular

recreational area for fishermen. The Marina restaurant offers food seasonally, and specializes in crawfish, gumbo and barbecue. The Higgins Ferry boat launch is open to the public, and can be accessed by taking the Lake Mitchell exit off I-65, and taking County Road 28 until it dead-ends at Higgins Ferry Park.

E n F uego

n Fuego is a large, outdoor Christian music festival held every August in Chilton County. More than 15,000 people come to a farm in Verbena to enjoy some of the top Christian recording artists from around the country. 2014 marks the 18th edition of the event, which started out as a small youth group event. Over the years, En Fuego has grown to be one of the biggest Christian music festivals in the Southeast. Often called “The Woodstock of Christian Music,” En Fuego has hosted many acts, including Third Day, Kutless, Pillar and Family Force 5. For those who are unfamiliar, it is held on an inconspicuous hillside along County Road 23 near Verbena. The all-day event is attended by all ages but especially targets student groups. traditional bonfire. The focal point of En Fuego is En Fuego 2015 will take place Aug. the guest speaker, followed by the 29 in Verbena. For more information,

including directions, complete band lineup and how to volunteer, visit www.enfuegoinfo.com. FACES AND PLACES 2015

P each F estival

erhaps Chilton County’s best known annual event is the Peach Festival, which occurs during harvest time in June. For two weeks, many events occur throughout the county, including a 5k run, cook-off, pageants, parade, auction and the Peach Jam.

Peach Run

The annual Peach Run is sponsored by Cornerstone Fitness & Wellness in Clanton. In 2015, the Peach Run was held Saturday, June 20. There are both a 5k and a 10k run through downtown Clanton. One of the best places to watch the race is along Alabama Highway 145 between Cornerstone (located just north of Chilton Medical Center) and downtown. There were cash prizes and winners named in several age divisions in both male and female categories. For more information, call Lori Patterson at 205-280-6450.

Peach Cook-Off

The annual Peach Cook-off was held at Senior Connection in Clanton in 2015. It is sponsored by the Alabama Cooperative Extension Chilton County office, Chilton County Farmers

Federation Women’s Committee and the Clanton Lions Club. The contest includes all kinds of dishes—and they must include fresh Chilton County peaches. There is always a guest chef and

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FACES AND PLACES 2015

other entertainment. Admission is free, and people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to compete to attend. Cash prizes are awarded in two age divisions, adult and youth. After judging, people in attendance have a chance to sample all the entries. For more information, call the local office of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at 205-280-6268.

Miss Peach Pageants

There are four categories in the Miss Peach Pageants: Little Miss (ages 5-7), Young Miss (8-11), Junior Miss (12-14) and Miss (15-18). The pageants are always on Saturday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday night during the Peach Festival. Winners earn scholarships and other prizes. The 2015 queens are Kendal Elijah (Miss Peach), Grayson Gann (Junior Miss Peach), Halle Sullivan (Young Miss Peach) and Lexie Deavers (Little Miss Peach).

Peach Jam Jubilee

The annual Peach Jam Jubilee, sponsored by the Chilton County

FACES AND PLACES 2015

Chamber of Commerce, is held the last Friday night in June. In 2015, Whompus Cats headlined the event. Local entertainment also performs. There are food vendors and arts and crafts vendors, as well as kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rides, games and more. Call the Chilton County Chamber of Commerce at (205) 755-2400 for more information.

Peach Auction

The Peach Auction is at Jack Hayes Field in Clanton City Park, and always directly follows the Peach Parade. Last

FACES AND PLACES 2015

yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event raised more than $16,000. The fundraiser benefits Clanton Lions Club and its charitable work, which includes providing glasses and eye care to children through Alabama Sight.

Peach Parade

The annual Peach Parade is held the Saturday after the Peach Jam. It starts from behind Fredâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s near Clanton City Park and circles through downtown Clanton. Participants will line up at 8 a.m. For more information, call Clanton Police Officer David Hicks at 205-755-1194. FACES AND PLACES 2015

R elay

for

hilton Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Relay For Life event, held every April, raises money for the American Cancer Society. Linda Hand, a breast cancer survivor, started the local version of this national event in 1994. Hand served as the Relay For Life chairwoman for 13 years, and local pastor Robert Griffin took over in 2007. Relay, now chaired by Courtney Brock, is held

FACES AND PLACES 2015

L ife at the youth league football field at Clanton City Park. The high-spirited event includes entertainment, cookouts and fun activities. Each fundraising team sets up campsites around the field, and cancer survivors and their supporters walk around the track to celebrate the continued fight against the disease. For more information, contact Brock at rflofchilton@gmail.com.

V eterans M emorial

he Chilton County Veterans Memorial stands in front of the county courthouse on Second Avenue North in Clanton as a reminder of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. The memorial bears the names of Chilton County residents who died in combat in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Lebanon and Iraq. Veteran Morris Price is credited for coming up with the idea while he worked as a property tax appraiser in the courthouse. Price,

once a prisoner of war in Korea, also lost a brother in combat. A drive was started to raise funds for a monument in 1985, and the dream became reality on Memorial Day 1986. The committee that oversees the memorial is made up of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and Disabled American Veterans Associations. Every Memorial Day, each name is read aloud as a crowd of citizens gathers to pay tribute to the fallen heroes. FACES AND PLACES 2015

C hristmas in C hilton

very year, the towns of Clanton, Thorsby, Jemison and Maplesville get into the holiday spirit by hosting Christmas parades. Each parade features marching bands, pageant queens, rescue vehicles, politicians, children, flashy vehicles and lots of candy. Clanton’s Christmas Parade is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Chilton County, and is held the first Friday in December at 6 p.m. It involves a route that weaves through downtown and showcases Peach Queens and the Pride of Chilton County High School

FACES AND PLACES 2015

Band. The town of Maplesville holds its parade the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The time has yet to be decided. It often hosts a large number of floats, as well as the MHS Band. Jemison traditionally holds its parade early in the Yuletide season and prominently features Jemison High School’s Blue Regiment Marching Band. Thorsby’s parade date for 2015 has yet to be announced, but typically features the Swedish Queens and the Thorsby High band.

FACES AND PLACES 2015

J uly F ourth C elebrations

ach year, Chilton County hosts several events to ring in America’s birthday. Clanton’s annual fireworks show is held around the Fourth of July. For more information, contact City Hall at 205755-1105.

The town of Thorsby also holds an annual celebration. Each year, the event is held at Richard Wood Memorial Park and is filled with music and fireworks. For more information, contact Thorsby Town Hall at 205-6463575.

A couple of celebrations are also held on Lake Mitchell, including the Cargile Creek Fourth of July fireworks show and boat parades. For more information, contact Jim McCormick with Lake Mitchell HOBO at jmac51@ bellsouth.net.

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FACES AND PLACES 2015

CLANTON

On a mission

Local pastor founds ministry, recognized with award

STORY BY WHITNEY DENSON PHOTO BY STEPHEN DAWKINS

hirty years ago, the Rev. German Gomez came to the United States from Vera Cruz, Mexico seeking job opportunities. He never thought he would be traveling back to Mexico as a missionary years later, nor did he foresee his life as a pastor in Clanton. Much to Gomez’s surprise and delight, his relationship with God has “completely turned his life around” for the better, and now he’s helping others build their own relationships with their families and the Lord. German (her-MANE) Gomez, 50, partnered with the First United Methodist Church in Clanton to found the San Juan Mission, an outreach program originally formed to provide the Spanish-speaking community with a way of learning about the gospel of Jesus Christ. Founded in 1999, the mission provides worship services, discipleship classes, youth classes and children’s church, as well as training for pastors and missionaries in order to expand the San Juan Mission. Located at 207 8th St. N. in Clanton, the San Juan Mission building is located one block south of the Clanton First United Methodist Church sanctuary, on the northeast corner of Second Ave. N. and Eighth St. N. Although the mission was originally founded for the Hispanic community, the group is now multicultural in that it serves all ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. With approximately 140 members, the San Juan Mission has grown from a mere seven members in its beginning, offering services such as counseling, English language classes and other resources in addition to the church services. As a missionary, pastor and founder of the organization, Gomez has been serving God’s people ever since he dedicated his life to the Lord. In observance of the improvements he’s made, Gomez was awarded the Harry Denman Evangelism Award for United 18 FACES AND PLACES 2015

The Rev. German Gomez partnered with the First United Methodist Church in Clanton in 1999 to found the San Juan Mission, an outreach ministry that serves the multicultural community. Gomez was recently chosen as the Denman award recipient for his “outstanding evangelism.”

Methodist clergy in June at the AlabamaWest Florida annual conference in Montgomery. The Denman award, announced each year at the conference, honors outstanding evangelism among clergy, laity and youth. There is no question about Gomez’s outstanding evangelism, as the ministry he helped found has now spread to seven more locations, with two more currently in the making. With sites in Montgomery, Mobile, Wetumpka, Lomax, Tuscaloosa and Mexico, the mission has grown to over 1,000 people. While the mission is continuously growing statewide, the leaders of the hub station in Clanton focus primarily on the needs of

the community in Chilton County and surrounding areas. By going into the communities and seeking new members for the church, Gomez and other clergy are able to witness to residents of the county, although they may not enter the mission’s building. Because the mission is a outreach branch of the First United Methodist Church in Clanton, the two work together to offer community events such as Vacation Bible School, mission trips, youth leadership programs, prayer groups and numerous other happenings in the all-encompassing church community. Through this partnership and the mission’s ample services, there is something for every age group at the San Juan

Mission. According to Gomez, the most satisfying part of his job is “seeing the change in people” after they are saved, especially because he’s undergone a drastic transformation himself over the course of his life. “When I came to the U.S., I came for work. I had never heard of Jesus Christ,” Gomez said. “My boss invited me to church, and I built a relationship with God. Thirteen years later, I became a missionary.” Gomez said he wants to be a living example for people and witness to them, so that they can become better citizens and build their own relationships with God. “Our goal in the San Juan Mission is to teach people how to be better fathers or mothers, husbands or wives, and children,” Gomez said. “We’re restoring families for the kingdom of God.” A husband and father of three children, Gomez stays busy between his family and the growing mission, which is currently adding locations in Prattville and Montgomery. Gomez said the progress and expansion of the mission’s community is what keeps him going on tiring days. “It’s very exciting when I see alcoholics become sober or drug dealers being delivered from their habits,” Gomez said. “Just seeing new families and people just having better lives is worth it.” The San Juan Mission stresses the openness of their ministry, in that the church offers personal interpreters for Spanish-speaking visitors, as the sermons are given in English, as well as several worship sessions throughout the week, marriage and family counseling, English classes and several other services. Because convenience is a prime element of the mission’s goal, childcare is offered during worship services, and a playground was recently added to the location. Gomez said if he and the

other members of the mission could not provide a certain service needed, he could promise that they have the resources to get people the help they need, no matter the issue. “No matter what kind of circumstances people are under, we want to provide a community that is accepting,” Gomez said. “It was very overwhelming when I came to the U.S. without the family circle I had in Mexico. We want to make any transition easier, whether that’s coming to the country or coming to church.” Gomez shared that his time at work is usually spent thinking

about his next sermon or the mission’s next project. If Gomez can achieve one thing in his career, he said that it is sharing how God can “fill people up” and provide them with the best life possible. “I just want to express to everyone that He can fill you up and give you what nothing else can,” Gomez said. “When I found Jesus, he filled me up completely. I was lonely, but then I was saved, and I found peace and comfort. He filled

everything that was missing in my life.” The mission offers worship services at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays and 7 p.m. on Mondays; men’s discipleship training at 7 p.m. on Monday and women’s discipleship training at 7 p.m. on Wednesday; and Bible study at 7 p.m. on Thursday. For more information on the San Juan Mission, visit www. cfumc-sanjuan.org or call Clanton First United Methodist Church at (205)755-0490.

CLANTON FAST FACTS City Hall 505 Second Ave. N., P.O. Box 580 Clanton, AL 35046-0580 Phone number (205) 755-1105 Fax number (205) 755-7650 Website www.clanton.al.us Population 8,745 (2013 estimate) Land area 20.3 square miles (52.7 square kilometers) Zip code 35046-0580 Elevation 600 feet (183 meters) Mayor Billy Joe Driver, (205) 755-4051 City Council Jeffrey Price (District 1), (205) 280-1792 Bobby Cook (District 2), (205) 755-3418 Sammy Wilson (District 3), (205) 755-4841 Greg DeJarnett (District 4), (205) 755-4780 Mary Mell Smith (District 5), (205) 755-0410 FACES AND PLACES 2015

E mergency M anagement A gency

oth the Chilton County and Alabama Emergency Management Agency Headquarters are located in Clanton, separated by just a few miles on U.S. Highway 31. The AEMA serves as the coordinating agency for disaster preparation, response and recovery statewide. The fact that the AEMA is headquartered here provides the county with an estimated100 jobs,

not to mention the revenue that comes with it. On the county level, the Chilton County EMA helps prepare residents for all kinds of disasters and threats to the area. This includes winter storms, tornados, fires, drought and hazardous material spills. For more information on the AEMA, visit www.ema.alabama.gov, and for the Chilton County EMA, visit www. chiltonema.org.

C hilton C ounty E xtension

he Chilton County Extension Office serves as the county’s branch of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, which connects Alabamians on the significant issues the state is facing at any given time. The ACES recently celebrated its centennial, and was granted a commendation document in 2014,

FACES AND PLACES 2015

recognizing the important role that the ACES has played in Alabama over the past 100 years. The system’s mission inlcudes 4-H and youth development, economic and community development, food safety and preservation, animal science, farm management, forestry and nutrition. Chilton County’s office offers several programs throughout the year, including

canning workshops, gardening classes, youth outdoor adventure camps and volunteer opportunities. For more information on the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, visit www.aces.edu. For more information on the Chilton County Extension Office, contact County Extension coordinator Gay West at 205-280-6268.

B last

from the

P ast

ne of the most enduring events in Chilton County has been the musical fundraiser “Blast from the Past” at Chilton County High School. It is an annual tradition in which students from Chilton County High School sing popular songs from past decades. Each song also includes choreographed dance parts or skits performed by students. Ricky and Sheri McKee started the program in 1993. The cast practices for two months leading up to the opening night. Tickets have been $7 in recent years and can be purchased from CCHS starting in January.

P ancake D ay

ancake Day is held at First United Methodist Church of Clanton on the second Saturday of February each year. It is a fundraiser organized by the United Methodist Men. All proceeds go toward charity and mission work. Plates consist of about three pancakes and two sausage patties, plus all the

seconds (or thirds) you can handle. Because of the day’s proximity to Valentine’s Day, many couples make the trip each year. The Methodist Men work a dry run the Friday night before each Pancake Day to ensure things go smoothly the following morning. 10 men usually come in at midnight to grill the sausage ahead

of time, which takes between four and five hours. Just a few hours later, at 5:30 a.m., the real show starts. The Alaga Whitfield Company donates syrup and other necessities. To purchase a ticket, see a Methodist Men member or call the church office at 205-755-0490.

Y ellowleaf C reek M ill

ellowleaf Creek Mill is a grist mill in Clanton that dates back to the 1850s. Formerly known as Shannon’s Mill, the mill was purchased by new owner David Brogdon in October 2014, who has brought new life to the historic site. While most of the original equipment — such as the millstones, sifter, grain elevator and pulleys — are still in good shape, Brogdon made several improvements and additions to the mill, including new plumbing, patios and décor suitable for gatherings. A popular wedding venue, the grist mill contains furnishings that provide a modern flair to the historic site, while still restoring its original beauty. In addition to weddings, Yellowleaf

also hosts parties, banquets, receptions, proms, reunions and other events. Previously owned by the H.H. Miller family, the mill is connected to Yellowleaf Creek, which runs into Lay Lake. Although the machinery isn’t currently producing corn meal, the site is excellent

for tourists who wish to reconnect with 19th century history. To make an event reservation or schedule a tour, call Yellowleaf Creek Mill at 205-280-0903, e-mail at info@ yellowleafcreekmill.com or visit the website at yellowleafcreekmill.com. FACES AND PLACES 2015

S tops A long I nterstate 65

hilton County has several attractions located right off exits 205 or 208. For years, people traveling to and from beaches on the Gulf Coast have been stopping off I-65 to enjoy the delicious summer treats at Durbin Farms Market, Peach Park, Todd’s Produce and Heaton Pecan Farm.

DURBIN FARMS MARKET

Danny Jones bought Durbin Farms Market in 2005. Located off Exit 205, Durbin’s seated 54 people at the time, but now seats about 200. Durbin Farms Market specializes in peach pecan ice cream, and averages 180-200 gallons of ice cream sold per day during busy weekends in the summer. Durbin’s began as a seasonal fruit market located off Highway 31 in Clanton, and now features a sandwich shop, fruits and vegetables and a selection of plants and gifts at LJ’s Boutique. The business is open from 9

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a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week and is closed only two days a year. For more information, contact Durbin Farms Market at 205-755-1672.

HEATON PECAN FARM

Heaton Pecan Farm, located off I-65 Exit 208, also has treats and homemade delights for everyone to enjoy. John and Billie Heaton opened The Barn, which first began as a hobby, 12 years ago. John Heaton passed away, leaving the legacy to be carried on by his wife, Billie, their son and grandchildren. The doors of the white barn, trimmed in green, are open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Barn is known for its various preroasted pecan pleasures that are freshly made every day in the store’s kitchen. Milk chocolate and white chocolate pecan halves are the farm’s best sellers. Other pecan delicacies include: pecan brittle, pecan logs, billionaires, chocolate

pecan bark, pralines, milk chocolate pecan fudge, peanut butter fudge, pecan pies, pecan pie tarts and pecan fruitcake. Pecans are not the only things the Heatons have to offer. The Barn serves 11 assorted flavors of homemade ice cream and milkshakes, Belgian Waffles, salads, soups and grilled gourmet, specialty and deli-style sandwiches. Other favorites include their pecan chicken salad plates and homemade cakes. In addition to sweets and lunch, Heaton also sells gifts, home decor, jewelry and other items. For more information, call 800-4463531 or visit www.heaton.com.

PEACH PARK

Gene and Francis Gray built Peach Park in 1984 so they wouldn’t have to haul peaches to New Orleans to sell them. Their two sons, Mark and Derek, still run the business. The park is located off Exit 205, and includes a fruit market with homemade

peach ice cream, homemade cobbler, fried pies and a gift shop. Peach Park has added a garden area with a walking path, a food menu featuring barbecue and a playground. Peach Park is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. For more information, contact Peach Park at 205755-2065.

TODD’S PRODUCE

Located off Exit 205, Todd’s Produce offers fresh fruits and vegetables, an ice cream parlor and a new children’s boutique. Founded in 1988, owners Hal and Dordie Hayes named the stand after their son, Todd Hayes. In addition to fresh produce and ice cream, Todd’s specializes in peach bread and peach preserves. Todd’s “Sweet as a Peach Boutique” is located inside of Todd’s Produce, and features clothing for infants, toddlers, and young children up to size 7. For more information, call Todd’s Produce at 205-755-3433.

FACES AND PLACES 2015

JEMISON

Faithful to God’s call

Jemison pastor strives to minister to community

STORY BY EMILY REED PHOTO BY EMILY REED

goal each day for Victory Baptist Church pastor Donald Jones is to remain faithful to the truth of God’s word. “In a world that is rapidly changing, and has changed so much in just the last couple of years, we have to remember to love people,” Jones said. “We just have to love people while remaining faithful to God’s word.” Jones is the pastor at Victory Baptist Church, where he has served in various capacities since 1980. Jones learned about an opening for a school principal at Chilton Christian Academy, which is operated by Victory Baptist Church, when he and his wife Rexaleen were living in Tennessee. “I heard about the opportunity, and it was between coming to Chilton County or moving to the Virgin Islands to work with some missionary friends we had, and the Lord opened up the door for me to come to Chilton County,” Jones said. “When we came here, we had two children, and I started out as the principal for the school which was very young at the time. It had started in 1977.” Jones graduated from Tennessee Temple University and Temple Theological Seminary where he earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree. The first year Jones was principal, 63 students attended the school, and Jones described the first year as a wonderful learning experience. In 1982, Jones took over the music ministry in the church, and worked alongside pastor Buddy Hayes, who later resigned, and then Dr. Braxton Baker, who pastored the church for 10 years and resigned in 2001. Jones became the pastor in July 2001, while still the principal of the school. 26

FACES AND PLACES 2015

Victory Baptist Church pastor Donald Jones has served in various capacities at the church since 1980. Jones spends most days ministering to the community around him.

“My heart changed when I became a pastor,” Jones said. “I believe that God really changes your heart and allows you to really love the people you are called to minister to. No one is perfect, and you have to love people with their problems.” Now, Jones has three grown children and six grandchildren, and spends most days ministering to the community around him. Jones said an exciting avenue at Victory

Baptist Church is the mission ministry, with the church taking trips to various areas each year. This year, the church plans to take a trip to Baja California, Mexico where the church has gone for the last two years. “We have been blessed to be able to travel to places like Honduras and Nicaragua,” Jones said. “It has been a wonderful opportunity for our church and something we

really have enjoyed.” The church also started an AWANA (Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed) program at the church, which Jones said has opened the door for the church to have a ministry to the children in the community. Jones said the school has also been a ministry and a blessing to the community,with roughly 185 students currently enrolled. Now, Jones serves as an administrator for the school with Charles Gottshall serving as the principal. “We have a wonderful staff,” Jones said. Throughout the years of serving at Victory Baptist and Chilton Christian Academy, Jones said it has been a blessing to see God working through different generations of individuals involved in both the church and school. “I am now seeing children of the children I knew when I first started working here,” Jones said. “It has been wonderful to see how God has worked through each of their lives, and I am now being able to minister to the second generations of those families. That has been a wonderful blessing for me.”

Jones said a common misconception individuals have about pastors is they are perfect. “Pastors are human,” Jones said. “They have yet to reach anywhere close to perfection. The best thing a pastor can do is be transparent and let the people see us for who we really are.” Jones said in a world that is consistently changing, he is still encouraged that the power of the Gospel message is still able to save people. “I think the greatest thing is even though we have a world that is changing with so many different beliefs and ideals, that the power of the Gospel is still able to change people’s lives,” Jones said. “It might be fewer numbers of people being changed by the Gospel message, but it is still reaching them and changing them, and that is a wonderful encouragement.” For more information about the ministry at Victory Baptist Church, visit www.vbcjemison.com or call (205) 6884454. The church is located at 23240 U.S. Highway 31 in Jemison.

JEMISON FAST FACTS City Hall 505 Second Ave. N., P.O. Box 580 Clanton, AL 35046-0580 City Hall 14 Padgett Lane Jemison, AL 35085 Mailing address: P.O. Box 609 Jemison, AL 35085 Phone number (205) 688-4492 Fax number (205) 688-1109 Website www.jemisonalabama.org Population 2,585 (2010 Census)

Land area 8.1 square miles (21.1 square kilometers) Zip code 35085 Elevation 719 feet (219 meters) Mayor Eddie Reed P.O. Box 609 Jemison, AL 35085 (205) 688-4492 City Council George Brasher (205) 688-2560 Donnie Lane (205) 688-2898 Robert Morris (205) 688-2538 Rex Bittle (205) 396-4145 Sam Reed (205) 238-9288

FACES AND PLACES 2015

H idden M eadow V ineyard

ill and Janette Bailey’s familyowned Hidden Meadow Vineyard and Winery officially opened for business in Jemison on June 17, 2011. Bill became interested in starting his own winery six years ago, and now owns a four-acre vineyard at 664 County Road 606. The first grape vine was planted in 2005 and is still producing. Wine sold at Hidden Meadow is crafted on site from the vineyard’s fruit, which includes Muscadine (Noble, Carlos and Magnolia), Concord, Niagara and Cynthiana grapes. In addition to the vineyard, the winery includes a family-built wine

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selling and tasting house with a processing room behind it. The winery has a selection of 10 wines to choose from including sweet reds and whites and drier reds aged in oak. The vineyard’s homemade wines range from $13 to $19 a bottle. In addition to buying bottled wine, visitors can sit out on the winery’s wooden porch overlooking the vineyard and have a glass of wine. The winery is open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For questions or more information, call 205-688-4648 or visit the website at www. hiddenmeadowvineyard. com.

P etals F rom T he P ast

etals from the Past is a nursery in Jemison that specializes in heirloom plants. They also have a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Their plant inventory includes antique roses, perennial flowers, herbs, fig trees, citrus trees and many more.

The nursery also holds regular events, including herb cooking classes, tomato contests and gardening workshops For more information on Petals from the Past, call 205-646-0069 or visit their website at www. petalsfromthepast.com. FACES AND PLACES 2015

MAPLESVILLE

Building an industry

Reynolds helps town’s lumber industry grow

STORY BY WHITNEY DENSON PHOTO BY STEPHEN DAWKINS

aplesville may be a small town, but it has made a name for itself in the lumber industry. With seven companies in the area devoted to the making or distribution of wood products, those passing through can’t help but notice the abundance of timber and logging trucks lining the road. Owning lumber, transportation and wood product companies in Maplesville, Mike Reynolds has a hand in each of the town’s booming industries. Reynolds, 59, owns Taylor-Made Lumber Company, Taylor-Made Transportation, Inc. and Reynolds Wood Products. Reynolds Wood Products was owned by Reynolds’ father until he took over the family business. 1974 was a busy year for Reynolds, as he graduated from high school, took ownership of Reynolds Wood Products and founded his own company—Taylor-Made Transportation, Inc. “I started out driving a truck,” Reynolds said. “I drove trucks until 1981 before I stopped to focus on managing the business.” Truck routes vary from in-county trips to surrounding states, and even the occasional cross-country expedition. “Yesterday, we had trucks in Kentucky and in Orlando, Florida,” Reynolds said on a busy weekday in July. “These drivers are a rare commodity.” Growing up in Plantersville, Reynolds was exposed to the lumber industry at an early age. “I grew up in Plantersville, right on the Chilton and Dallas county line, close to O’Neal’s Tractor [Company],” Reynolds said. “When I got out of school, I was looking for a job and my family’s always lived close by. The business has really 30

FACES AND PLACES 2015

Mike Reynolds has a hand in each of Maplesville’s booming industries, as he owns Taylor-Made Lumber Company, Taylor-Made Transportation Inc and Reynolds Wood Products, which are all located in the small town.

been good in Maplesville.” While each of his three companies has its own specialty and specific duties, they also work together to get the products from the tree to the customers. The trees come from loggers within a 100-mile radius of Maplesville, and from there, they are fed into machines that cut,

mold or shred the trees into the desired shapes and sizes. According to Reynolds, a lot of the company’s local business comes from wood prepared for floor and wall paneling, which also lines every inch of Reynold’s office. “We sell to the public, but we do a lot

of wholesale,” Reynolds said. “Even out of state, everyone in the lumber company knows where Maplesville is.” The scope of Taylor-Made’s work stretches far beyond the 70-plus acres the company owns, especially since it partners with neighboring businesses such as West Fraser Mill and South Coast Paper. “We work good together,” Reynolds said. “They just expanded their mill, and they’ve got a lot to offer.” Reynolds shared that he takes pride in knowing that the lumber his company ships helps build things miles and miles away, and sometimes shows up in unexpected places. According to Reynolds, Maplesville native and U.S. soldier Max Seals sent him a picture of Taylor-Made wood products he saw in Iraq. The lumber was sold to a company in Oregon, which then sold it to a branch of the military. “Max said he opened the crate, and there was our wood,” Reynolds said. “It’s a neat thing to know our wood was helping build things for the troops in Iraq.” In addition to the products the lumber industry produces, it also brings a great deal of

job opportunities to the community. Reynolds said he has approximately 100 employees, and the business is steadily growing. One important industry that may surprise people is the selling of woodchips, made from the “scraps” of cut wood pieces. According to Reynolds, the chips bring in a great deal of revenue for the company. “We sell them to people in the poultry or horse businesses for bedding or stalls,” Reynolds said. Between the wood products, trucks and machines, Reynolds keeps busy throughout his days on the job, making sure all operations run smoothly. You can often catch him on his Southern Linc cell phone, checking on the status of assignments and directing people where they need to be. Although Reynolds always has more than a few projects going at any given time, he said he has never thought about doing any other type of work. “There are good people in Maplesville,” Reynolds said. “It’s easy working with everybody here.”

MAPLESVILLE FAST FACTS Town Hall P.O. Box 9 Maplesville, AL 36750

Zip code 36750

Phone number (334) 366-4212

Elevation 351 feet (107 meters)

Fax number (334) 366-4210

Mayor W.C. Hayes Jr., (334) 366-4383

Email maplesvilletowno@bellsouth.net

Town council Hal Harrison (District 1), (334) 375-7880 Sheila Hall (District 2), (334) 366-0052 Hilda Atchison (District 3), (334) 366-4777 Richard Davis (District 4), (334) 366-5214 Patty Crocker (District 5), (334) 366-4432

Population 708 (2010 Census) Land area 3.3 square miles (8.5 square kilometers)

FACES AND PLACES 2015

M aplesville R ailroad D epot

irst built in the 1850s, Maplesville’s train depot marked the end of the age of the stagecoach in the town, as businesses moved to create the current downtown around the railroad. But as the automobile became the

preferred means of transportation, the depot fell into disuse. The Maplesville Historical Society has worked to transform the depot into a museum. The society was founded in 2007 in an effort to prepare the town for

its bicentennial celebration as part of former Gov. Bob Riley’s Great Alabama Homecoming initiative. One of the group’s first projects was to build a pictorial museum in the town’s historic depot, and several other projects are in the works.

E benezer B aptist C hurch

benezer Baptist Church in Stanton was the site of a Civil War battle on April 1, 1865. According to the marker in front of the church, Lt. Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest led 1,500 Confederate cavalrymen into Union Army General James H. Wilson’s force of 7,500 near

Ebenezer, hoping to stall Wilson on his march toward an arsenal at Selma. Ebenezer’s pastor, Bro. Danny Rasberry, said people still visit the church hoping to find a rumored bullet hole on the exterior, but that was likely located at a previous building that burned in 1916. One clue to the past

is the cedar trees that tower over a cemetery up the hill behind the church. On a tombstone is written that the federal government asked the church not to cut down the trees because Union soldiers are buried there and the trees would serve as a memorial to the dead.

M aplesville H eritage D ay

he town of Maplesville’s first Heritage Day was held in 2010 as part of The Year of Small Towns and Downtowns in Alabama. The event was turned into an annual homecoming for those who call or once called the Maplesville area home. It also 32 FACES AND PLACES 2015

encompasses surrounding communities such as Lawley, Randolph and Stanton. The sixth annual Heritage Day was held April 11, and sponsored by the Maplesville Volunteer Fire Department. Aside from street vendors and the typical festival fun, many historic homes and

businesses were open for tours. These included Maplesville Methodist Church and the Southern Depot Museum, the latter of which contains 100-plus historic pictures and documents. To learn more, call Town Clerk Dawn Smitherman at (334) 366-4211.

24-H our C hallenge

he Perry Mountain 24-Hour Challenge is a yearly motorcycle race held at Perry Mountain Motorcycle Club on the first weekend in June. The event pits riders from all across the country against each other, against the 10-mile course and against the clock. The concept is simple: Go as hard as you can, as much as you can, as long as you can. The team/ rider with the most laps completed after 24 hours wins the event. Riders tackle all kinds of terrain and

elevation changes, along with mechanical issues. There are more than 14 classes of riders, with most entries coming from teams. Riders in the Ironman class, however, choose to take the challenge by themselves. The event brings in dozens of vendors and hundreds of motorcycle enthusiasts from all across the country into Chilton County, as it is only one of two events like it in the nation. The 2015 overall winner was the Pelham-based Max Motorsports team.

FACES AND PLACES 2015

THORSBY

Thorsby’s “Delite” Restaurant part of town’s culture

STORY BY STEPHEN DAWKINS PHOTO BY STEPHEN DAWKINS

Karen Reeser (right) started working at Dari-Delite at age 15 and purchased the business in 1987. She married Larry in 1998, and the two have become common sights at the restaurant.

here are few things associated as closely with the town of Thorsby than Dari-Delite. Possibly the school, or Helen Jenkins Chapel nearby, but the little restaurant that sits off Highway 31 is woven into the fabric of the community. The name Dari-Delite comes from a chain of burger/ice cream joints similar to Dairy Queen. Though Karen and Larry Reeser, owners of Thorsby Dari-Delite, pay a nominal licensing fee to retain the name, they’ve made the restaurant their own — and maintained it as a Thorsby staple. Thorsby Dari-Delite was built in 1950 by Luther Mims, who ran restaurants by 34 FACES AND PLACES 2015

the same name in Clanton. Lyndel Ellison, who worked at Dari-Delite under Mims, bought Dari-Delite in 1975. Ellison and her husband Wayne would hire a 15-yearold Thorsby School student who would later serve as a manager for a couple of years and then purchase the business in 1987. “I just knew that it was in my blood,” said Karen Reeser, the current owner. “I was a fast-paced person.” The building has been remodeled several times, though the basic set-up has never changed: Customers order inside and enjoy their meals in the dining area, or order at the walk-up window outside, to carry home their burgers and ice cream or

eat outside on nice days. The kitchen and stock room were renovated in 2014, and a new sign was put up during the summer of 2015. During Karen Reeser’s time, many items have been added to the menu, which is offered for lunch and dinner, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday except for an early closure (9 p.m.) on Wednesdays. “Broaster” chicken, shrimp, catfish, hot wings and steak Philly sandwiches are all now popular entrees. The Reesers said the chicken and hot hamburger are the favorites. (For nonChilton County residents, a hot hamburger is an open-face sandwich with gravy poured over the top.)

Dari-Delite was recently named one of Alabama’s “Best greasy burgers to try before you die” (No. 22 on the list). Also, the ice cream is always a hit. The restaurant has recently started offering “Flavor Burst” ice cream, which features a swirl of a second flavor. Dinner is the busiest time for Dari-Delite, which stays packed year-round. People want ice cream even in the winter, Larry Reeser said. Karen and Larry Reeser married in 1998. Karen had three daughters at the time. Heather Turner, Tammy Reeser and Holly Matson — all formerly Clevelands — each helped their mother at the restaurant. Karen’s and Larry’s daughter, Lauren Reeser, works at Dari-Delite now as an upcoming sophomore at Thorsby School. Larry Reeser was originally from north Shelby County. He moved to Thorsby in 1993, substitute teaching and coach-

FACES AND PLACES 2015

ing softball at Thorsby School during three seasons that saw the Rebels, starring the Cleveland girls, advance to the state tournament. Reeser, now a pastor at New Salem Baptist Church and a bus driver for Jemison schools, has also called high school football games on Friday nights on a local radio station with Zack Bates. Reeser said Bates asked him to join him in the booth in 2003. “I figured it would be for that one year, but I’ve been doing it ever since,” Reeser said. Larry Reeser has become almost as recognizable at Dari-Delite as his wife. He usually works lunch shifts, as Karen keeps six of the couple’s grandchildren during the day. Michael Rawlinson, Karen’s cousin, is the night manager and has become a Dari-Delite “personality” himself. The Reesers said some customers will give their orders

only to Rawlinson, reminiscent of the regard loyal customers had for Karen Reeser’s mother, Dot (Farris) Porter, known as “Aunt Dot.” Karen Reeser said Porter was known for her biscuits, during a time the restaurant served breakfast. Porter, who has

passed, worked at Dari-Delite for more than 20 years. The faces have changed, as have the meals served and the menu — slightly. But thanks to loyal customers, good food and people dedicated to serving it, Dari-Delite remains a Thorsby cornerstone.

THORSBY FAST FACTS City Hall P.O. Box 608 Thorsby, AL 35171 Phone number (205) 646-3575 Fax number (205) 646-2414 Website www.townofthorsby.com Population 1,820 (2010 Census) Land area 5.2 square miles (13.4 square kilometers)

Zip code 35171 Elevation 696 feet (212 meters) Mayor Jean Nelson (205) 646-2429 Town council Neil Benson, (205) 646-2936 Marvin Crumpton, (205) 646-3202 Randall Higgins, (205) 217-0105 Nicole Hilyer, (205) 646-2809 Glenn Littleton, (205) 646-3638

H elen J enkins C hapel

elen Jenkins Chapel, located on Concordia Avenue across from Thorsby High School is a window to the town’s past. The chapel is named after Helen Jenkins, a former principal of Thorsby School. Built in 1903 by Norwegian Lutherans who had been meeting in homes and businesses, the building served as a church until the early 1960s. The last Lutheran pastor, however, served until 1911 and the church was sold to the Congregational Church. Local historian Jane Sutlive said many of the original settlers who came to Thorsby from the Northern U.S. had found life to be more difficult than expected. People came to the

area and cleared the land, but many were not farmers and they looked for opportunities elsewhere. As church members dwindled, the Lutherans had no choice but to sell the property. The Congregational Church was a major supporter of Thorsby Institute, a private school open from 1906 through 1957. Many students and faculty members attended the church, so when the school disbanded the church followed soon thereafter. But the school would ultimately be what helped save the chapel. In the early 1960s the building was sold to the Masons and became the Thorsby Masonic Lodge. “The Masons had it until they gave

it to the town in the late 1980s,” said Sutlive. “The town allowed the board of education to use it as a band room for Thorsby High School until 1997.” The following year, the town formed a committee to restore the structure, which was in despair. “At the time, there weren’t many stained glass windows left,” Sutlive said. Graduates of Thorsby Institute, along with local businesses and other generous individuals, raised the money to restore the chapel back to its former glory. A street clock in honor of former mayor Dearl Hilyer was added in front of the chapel. Hilyer passed away in October 2012, shortly after being re-elected to a second term.

S wedish F estival

he town of Thorsby gets together every October to celebrate its heritage by hosting the annual Swedish Festival. The event will be held October 11, 2014, at Richard Wood Park. The festival features numerous activities for the entire family, including a parade and 5K Viking Run. Richard Wood Park has most of the activity with arts and crafts booths, food vendors, games and other attractions. An antique car show has been held in previous years, and the beauty pageant takes place on two nights during the week, with the official date to be announced. For more information regarding the event, contact Thorsby Town Hall at 205-646-3575.

S candinavian C emetery

he Scandinavian Cemetery in Thorsby came into existence when Swedish Lutheran Church members bought the land in the late

1800s. Two founders of Thorsby, T.T. Thorson and J.F. Peterson, have several relatives buried in the Scandinavian Cemetery, formerly known as the

Concordia Lutheran Cemetery. In 2009, the cemetery was added to the Alabama Historical Commission’s Alabama Historical Cemetery Registry. FACES AND PLACES 2015

Important Telephone Numbers Emergencies: 911 ABC Board: 334-271-3840 Family Planning Office: 205-755-6973 American Red Cross: 205-755-0707 Family Violence Shelter: 205-263-0218 Appraisers Office: 205-755-0160 FBI: 334-263-1691 Auto Tag and Title: 205-755-1258 Food Stamps: 205-755-0578 Better Business Bureau: 800-824-5274 Forestry Commission: 800-242-2504 Board of Education: 205-280-3000 Girl Scouts: 205-646-3938 Board of Registrars: 205-755-3820 Health Department: 205-755-1287 Boy Scouts: 800-977-2688 Chilton County Humane Society: 205-755-9170 Bureau of Investigation: 334-242-4372 Human Resources: 205-755-3250 Child Abuse: 205-755-8633 Industrial Development: 205-755-5934 or 205-755-1120 Jail: 205-755-1053 SPAN Program: 205-755-2779 Minooka Park Ranger: 205-755-5952 Poison Control: 800-462-0800 38 FACES AND PLACES 2015

Consumer Protection: 205-261-7334 Probate Judge: 205-755-1555 Council on Aging: 205-755-7817 Social Services: 205-755-8533 Department of Human Resources: 205-280-2000 State Troopers: 205-755-1120 District Attorney’s Office: 205-755-4242 Tax Assessor: 205-755-0155 District Court: 205-755-7233 District Judge: 205-755-1558 Property Tax: 205-755-7228 Driver’s License: 205-755-155 Tag Division: 205-755-1258 Emergency Assistance Center: 205-755-9467 Title and Mfg Home: 205-755-7257 Emergency Management Agency: 205-755-0900 Sheriff: 205-755-4698 Engineer: 205-755-0530 Unemployment Services: 205-755-6695 Extension System: 205-755-3240 Veteran’s Service: 205-755-2912 Chilton/Shelby Mental Health: 205-755-5933 Alabama Power Company: 205-755-9666 Central Alabama Electric: 205-755-6068 Chilton County Water Authority: 205-646-3300