2019
A COMPLETE GUIDE TO
CHILTON COUNTY
A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF
FACES AND PLACES 2019
1
, ([LW &/$1721 $JULFXOWXUDO 6KRZV /LYHVWRFN 6KRZV 5RGHRV 'RJ 6KRZV )DLUV DQG )HVWLYDOV (FRQRPLF ,PSDFWV ([SHFWHG
7RWDO 9LVLWRUV
2YHUQLJKW 9LVLWRUV
0
7RWDO 6SHQGLQJ E\ 9LVLWRUV
x 3URMHFWHG VHDW $LU &RQGLWLRQHG $UHQD x 3URMHFWHG VT IW ([KLELWLRQ %XLOGLQJ x 6WDOO KRUVH EDUQ x 59 KRRN XSV
_ 0XOWL 3XUSRVH %XLOGLQJ VT IW
$ SDUWQHUVKLS RI $ODEDPD )DUPHUV $JULFXOWXUH )RXQGDWLRQ &KLOWRQ &RXQW\ DQG WKH &LW\ RI &ODQWRQ ) R U P R U H LQIRUPDWLRQ
&KLOWRQ &RXQW\ ,QGXVWULDO 'HYHORSPHQW :KLWQH\ %DUORZ 'LUHFWRU
(PDLO ZEDUORZ#FKLOWRQFRXQW\HFRQRPLFGHYHORSPHQW FRP
Business-Driven and Working for You! • Promotes, markets and supports existing businesses • Provides new business plan assistance • Partners with local agencies to drive a dynamic business environment 500 5th Avenue North • Clanton, Alabama 35045 www.chiltonchamberonline.com • (205) 755-2400 2
FACES AND PLACES 2019
A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF
PUBLISHER Tim Prince
GENERAL MANAGER Brandy Clackley
EDITORIAL Joyanna Love, editor J.R. Tidwell, managing editor Anthony Richards, writer
MARKETING Zack Bates
CUSTOMER SERVICE Kacy Barrett
PRESSROOM & MAILROOM Jimmy Ruff, production manager Michael Turner, assistant production manager Chris Love, assistant production manager Scott Mims, mailroom manager Malinda Nance, mailroom manager Jimmy Huett, press maintenance
2019 Chilton County Alabama Farm Center at ALFA Centennial Park ...... 4 Clanton Meet the Singletons ............................................ 16 Jemison Councilman Rex Bittle ......................................... 25 Thorsby Mayor Robert Hight .......................................... 30 Maplesville
On the cover: Peggy and Jerry Harrison at The Horn of Plenty.
Peach grower Jerry Harrison ............................... 34 Important telephone numbers .............................. 38 FACES AND PLACES 2019
3
CHILTON COUNTY
_ 0DLQ $UHQD VT IW
LOOKING FORWARD ALABAMA FARM CENTER COMING TO CHILTON The main arena is expected to be between 150,000 and 170,000 square foot.
STORY BY JOYANNA LOVE PHOTOS BY COURTESY OF JMR+H ARCHITECTURE
P
lans laid for economic growth and development for Chilton County are starting to see results with the announcement of the Alabama Farm Center at ALFA Centennial Park. The project will be used as a catalyst to develop land near Interstate 65, Exit 212. Input from many different groups, including community members, government officials and business leaders, is being gathered to develop a plan for what would be best to have at the exit. The hope is to break ground on the Alabama Farm Center before the end of 2019. Even before any dirt has been moved, the Alabama Farmers Federation is receiving requests to book the planned exhibition halls. 4
FACES AND PLACES 2019
BACKGROUND
In 2015, the City of Clanton and the Chilton County Commission purchased about 500 acres to be used as an industrial park. Agreements were made that the infrastructure development costs and tax revenue profit from the site would be split 50/50 even though the property was within the city limit. Some infrastructure work had been done on the site, but otherwise the land remained undeveloped. Meanwhile, the Alabama Farmers Federation began brainstorming ways to celebrate its 100th
_ 6KHHS 6ZLQH %DUQ 6PDOO $QLPDO -XGJLQJ $UHQD VT IW
This is the current design for a barn with areas for sheep and swine and a small animal judging arena.
anniversary, which will be in 2021. Establishing a farm center, the first such facility in the state, was chosen. “We refer to this as our centennial project,� Mathew Durdin, director of external affairs for the Alabama Farmers Federation, said. “It is something that we want to do in honor of our members and for the industry of agriculture for what it has done for this state. It is just a small token of what the Alabama Farmers Federation can give back to its members.� The Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation hired Markin Consulting of Minnesota to conduct a feasibility study for locations for a farm center in Alabama. In 2018, Chilton County was chosen as the best place. “Agriculture is a huge industry in our state, and this type of venue has been needed here for so long,� Whitney Barlow, director of the Chilton County Industrial Development Board, said.
She said while there are many good existing venues, something larger is needed. Barlow said the Farmers Federation had let the IDB know it was considering Clanton as a site for the project. Later, IDB personnel were notified of the selection and asked to wait until the Farmers Federation made an official announcement to talk about it.
BIG ANNOUNCEMENT
On Feb. 26, 2019, community leaders, government officials and representatives from ALFA and the Alabama Farmers Federation met in the Clanton City Council for the announcement that the Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation had chosen Chilton County for the Alabama Farm Center. The project will be a joint project of the Alabama Farmers Federation,
CHILTON COUNTY FAST FACTS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 500 Second Ave. N Clanton, AL 35045 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1948 Clanton, AL 35046
PHONE NUMBER (205) 755-1551
LAND AREA 693.98 square miles
Greg Moore 205-351-1266 Matthew Mims 205-389- 6161
WEBSITE chiltoncounty.org
COUNTY COMMISSION Joe Headley 205-287-1689 Jimmie Hardee 205-389-2181 Joseph Parnell 205-688-6991 Steve Langston 205-755-1551
Chairman Allen Caton 205-351-2107
POPULATION 44,153 (2018 estimate)
FACES AND PLACES 2019
5
_ (TXHVWULDQ /LYHVWRFN ,QGRRU $UHQD VT IW
Indoor arenas for equestrian and livestock shows will be a part of the Alabama Farm Center.
the City of Clanton, the Chilton County Commission and other partners. These other partners are yet to be determined. Just how much monetary investment each partner will put into the project is still being worked out. “We are looking at forming a cooperative district,� Durdin said. He said this would help open up funding options. Specific cost breakdowns are in the works for construction and infrastructure costs with the potential for application to state and federal programs for funding for specific portions. Barlow said local funding will be a small portion of the investment. An estimate of how much the entire project might cost was $100-$150 million during the initial project announcement. However, this number could change as specific designs and pieces of the project take shape. “That is the process we are in right now working on finding out the final cost that the park is going to be,� Durdin said. The hope is to have a solid number by the end of the summer. The organization has looked at Farm Centers in Perry, Georgia, and Grand Island, Nebraska, for ideas of what they wanted the Alabama Farm Center to be. “This is about to be in our backyard,� Durdin said. “This is about to be Alabama, and it’s really exciting.� The plan is for the Farm Center to have 11 main structures, including an exhibition hall expected to be at least 150,000 square foot, livestock arena, equestrian arena, several specialized barns for different types of animals and smaller multiuse buildings that will be able to be booked for a number of events. “It will be advertised across the country for any type of event to be held,� Barlow said. “This is going to be one of 11 in the nation and one of four or five that are the size this one is going to be, so we are going to be unique enough that we can attract in shows. That is why those multiuse barns of buildings will be an asset to the park.� Durdin said the complex will be large enough and have enough parking that multiple events could be happening on the same day. Booking the facility will be handled through Farmers Federation employees. Durdin said while the facility will be agricultural-themed, many other events such as motor home shows, trade shows, expos and community festivals could be held at the site. 6
FACES AND PLACES 2019
_ 0XOWL 3XUSRVH %XLOGLQJ VT IW
This is the current design for multiuse buildings at the Alabama Farm Center.
There will also be an estimated 400 RV hookups on the site with a mixture of temporary and permanent hookups. Durdin said the Farmers Federation plans to move its events to the site once it is completed. Rodeos and youth livestock shows could be held at the site. Excitement for the possibilities is already mounting even beyond the boundaries of Chilton County. “I get calls weekly from various groups wanting to book the place now,� Durdin said.
Some of these are organizations with a national presence. “It could be the centerpiece of agriculture and especially animal agriculture in the state once we get it all put together,� Durdin said.
PLANNING
Several meetings have been held to develop a master plan for Exit 212 to find out what the community wants in the area and what would be the best use of the land surrounding the Farm
Growing with Chilton County since 1984
GENERAL CONTRACTORS • Licensed by State of Alabama • Commercial Site Preparation • Sub-Division Development • Road Construction • Underground Water & Sewer Projects
600 5th Avenue North • Clanton • 205-688-3290 FACES AND PLACES 2019
7
Center. Plans are in the beginning stages and will be put together by Chambliss King Architects from the ideas. Barlow said the master plan “will suggest the highest and best use” for land surrounding the Farm Center project. “The project is a catalyst project, so this isn’t just going to be retail we are trying to focus on, we are going to really try to have some foresight into 10 or 15 years of what we want Clanton to really look like from the benefit of this exit and the benefit to Chilton County as a whole,” Barlow said. Having a master plan for each of the Chilton County Interstate 65 exits was something community members said they had wanted in previous meetings to develop the Economic Development Strategic Plan for Chilton County. Three public meetings were held in July related to the Exit 212 master plan. The meetings also gave opportunities to ask questions. “All input is greatly appreciated,” Barlow said. Chilton County residents will have a chance to serve on committees related to further developing specific ideas. Possibilities being discussed include a hotel, restaurants, business park with higher end businesses, businesses to capitalize on proximity to St. Vincent’s Chilton Hospital and Jefferson State Community College’s Clanton campus, additional recreation parks with potential connection to existing parks and companies related to things needed by those who will come to the Farm Center for events. Additionally, what could possibly be added for young people and families to keep them from having to drive out of town for night time activities has been mentioned. The goal is for these additional developments to take shape at the same time the Farm Center is being built. A recruitment plan is being developed to guide how to get businesses interested in locating at the exit. Developing roads that run parallel to the interstate to make it easier for local residents to get from exit to exit may become a part of the plan.
POTENTIAL IMPACT
The number of direct jobs created by the project has been estimated to be 120-150, including seasonal workers. Durdin said there are plans to hire a general manager/CEO who would be “in charge of day-to-day operations” and estimates 12-15 full-time employees would be needed.
8
FACES AND PLACES 2019
The development of the surrounding area spurred by events at the Farm Center, such as opening of restaurants, hotels and businesses, is expected to create 300-400 jobs, according to a press release by the Alabama Farmers Federation published as a part of the initial announcement. In the release, the Farmers Federation also estimated the regional annual positive economic impact of the completed project to be $40-$55 million. “I don’t think it’s just Central Alabama/Chilton County that is going to benefit from it,” Durdin said. He said the rural counties surrounding Chilton County would also benefit from those driving through needing places to eat and stay on their way to events. Workforce development opportunities are also planned for the site. Barlow said the IDB board is working with Jefferson State Community College, LeCroy Career Technical Center, Chilton County Board of Education, privately-owned companies and AIDT (a state workforce development agency under the Secretary of Commerce) on a workforce development center to be housed in some of the Farm Center’s multipurpose buildings. “At this point, we are doing inventory and researching what type of skills and classes need to be taught,” Barlow said. “One we know for sure is heavy machine operator, like track hoe, excavator and bulldozer. Where we have a unique benefit that is different from a lot of other places is the way that this park is going to be structured we will have the acreage for the students to be able to learn in the classroom, work with the simulators (and then) be able to actually get on pieces of equipment and become a lot more familiar.” The plan is for the program to supply a workforce certification, but it will not be an accredited program. Barlow said the certification will show employers the type of experience that a person has on the machinery. A variety of different programs could be offered in this space depending on the workforce need. AIDT and private companies could also use the facility for training of employees at a centralized location for those throughout the state or even the Southeast, Barlow said. The Alabama Farmers Federation hopes to celebrate its centennial in a completed building of the Alabama Farm Center in the fall of 2021.
PEACH FESTIVAL
P
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 through-
PEACH RUN
out the county, including a 5K run, cook-off, pageants, parade, auction and the Peach Jam.
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.
Saturday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday night during the Peach Festival. Winners earn scholarships and other prizes. The 2019 queens are Marybeth Porter (Miss Peach), Sophie Porter (Junior Miss Peach), Lexie Deavers (Young Miss Peach) and Ryleigh Green (Little Miss Peach).
The annual Peach Run is sponsored by Cornerstone Fitness & Wellness in Clanton. In 2019, the Peach Run was held June 22. 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 MISS PEACH PAGEANTS There are four categories in the Miss 145 between Cornerstone (located just north Peach Pageants: Little Miss (ages 5-7), PEACH JAM JUBILEE of Chilton Medical Center) and downtown. Young Miss (8-11), Junior Miss (12-14) and The annual Peach Jam Jubilee, sponThere are cash prizes and winners named in Miss (15-18). The pageants are always on sored by the Chilton County Chamber of several age divisions in both male and female categories. For more information, call fitness director Lesia Childress at 205-280-6450.
PEACH COOK-OFF
The annual Peach Cook-off is held Senior Connection in Clanton. 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 Chilton County peaches. There is always a guest chef demonstrating a dish. Admission is free, and people do not have to compete to attend. Cash prizes are awarded in two age divisions, adult and youth in sweet and savory. FACES AND PLACES 2019
9
Commerce, is held the last Saturday in June. There are food vendors and arts and crafts vendors, as well as kids’ rides, games and live entertainment. Call the Chilton County Chamber of Commerce at 205-755-2400 for more information.
PEACH PARADE
The annual Peach Parade is held the last Saturday in June. It starts at the Park Plaza shopping center near Clanton City Park and circles through downtown Clanton. For more information, contact the Clanton Lions Club on Facebook.
PEACH AUCTION
The Peach Auction is held at Senior Connection, and always directly follows the Peach Parade. Last year’s event raised $18,750. The fundraiser benefits Clanton Lions Club and its charitable work, which includes providing glasses and eye care to children through Alabama Sight as well as supporting a number of local organizations.
RELAY FOR LIFE Chilton County’s Relay for Life event, held every April, raises money for the American Cancer Society. Relay was held at Clanton City Park in 2019. The high-spirited event includes entertainment, cookouts and fun activities. Cancer survivors and their supporters walk around downtown to celebrate the continued fight against the disease. For more information, contact Quenita Mitchell at quenita.mitchell@cancer.org
10
FACES AND PLACES 2019
ART FESTIVAL
The Chilton County Arts Council sponsors an annual art festival. The 2019 festival was held on July 27 and featured a variety of works from regional artists. More than 40 artists participated. The event is held at the Clanton Performing Arts Center. For more information, contact the Arts Council at chiltoncountyartscouncil@hotmail.com.
CHRISTMAS CHILTON
IN
Every year, the towns of Clanton, Thorsby, Jemison and Maplesville get into the holiday spirit by hosting Christmas activities.
Ó䣙
›ÓÊ /Ê , -
Â?>Â˜ĂŒÂœÂ˜ĂŠ/Ă€>VĂŒÂœĂ€
›ÎÊ* // ,-" Ê , -
,ÂˆĂ›iÀÊ >Â˜ÂŽĂŠEĂŠ/Ă€Ă•ĂƒĂŒ
›{Ê 9Ê ,, -"
>Ă€ÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠ >Â˜ÂŽĂŠEĂŠ/Ă€Ă•ĂƒĂŒ
›xÊ / ÊEÊ 9" Ê -/ ,
/Â…iĂŠ Ă€Âˆ`}iĂŠ Ă•ÂˆÂ?`iĂ€ĂƒĂŠÂœvĂŠ Â?>L>“>]ĂŠ
/"
Âż-ĂŠ*," 1
-Ă•Â˜-ÂœĂ•ĂŒÂ…
/ĂŠ , -
6>Â˜ĂŠ-Â“ÂˆĂŒÂ…
ĂŠEĂŠ ĂŠ , -
…ˆÂ?ĂŒÂœÂ˜ĂŠ ÂœĂ•Â˜ĂŒĂžĂŠ,iÂŤĂ•LÂ?ˆV>Â˜ĂŠ*>Ă€ĂŒĂž
"- 1 ĂŠ " -
/Â…iĂŠ Â?>Â˜ĂŒÂœÂ˜ĂŠ `Ă›iĂ€ĂŒÂˆĂƒiĂ€
7 - ĂŠ , -
-i˜>ĂŒÂœĂ€ĂŠ >“Ê7>Ă€`
,,9ĂŠ ,, -"
…ˆÂ?ĂŒÂœÂ˜ĂŠ ÂœÂ˜ĂŒĂ€>VĂŒÂœĂ€Ăƒ
* // ,-" ĂŠ , -
Â?Â?iÂ˜ĂŠ >ĂŒÂœÂ˜
/ ĂŠEĂŠ 9" ĂŠ -/ ,
-iVĂ€iĂŒ>Ă€ĂžĂŠÂœvĂŠ-ĂŒ>ĂŒiĂŠ ÂœÂ…Â˜ĂŠ iĂ€Ă€ÂˆÂ?Â?
9ĂŠ ,, -"
7>`ĂƒĂœÂœĂ€ĂŒÂ…ĂŠ"ˆÂ?
Âż-ĂŠ*," 1
/ÂœÂ“Â“ĂžĂŠ/Ă•LiĂ€Ă›ÂˆÂ?Â?i
/" ĂŠ, - , ĂŠEĂŠ 8/ - " ĂŠ / , œ˜}Ă€iĂƒĂƒÂ“>Â˜ĂŠ >ÀÞÊ*>Â?“iĂ€ "- 1 ĂŠ " -
…ˆÂ?ĂŒÂœÂ˜ĂŠ ÂœÂ˜ĂŒĂ€>VĂŒÂœĂ€Ăƒ
9ĂŠ ,, -"
œ˜}Ă€iĂƒĂƒÂ“>Â˜ĂŠ >ÀÞÊ*>Â?“iĂ€
7 - ĂŠ , -
Â˜ĂŠ iÂ“ÂœĂ€ĂžĂŠÂœvĂŠ ÂˆÂ“Â“ĂžĂŠ >Ă€ĂŒÂˆÂ˜
FACES AND PLACES 2019
11
Clanton, Thorsby and Jemison host 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 Band. Jemison’s parade will be on the first Saturday in December and prominently features Jemison High School’s Blue Regiment Marching Band. Thorsby’s parade is traditionally held the first weekend in December and features the Swedish Queens and the Thorsby High band. Maplesville hosts Old Fashioned Christmas on the first Sunday afternoon in December. The event traditionally features food, vendors, music, reading of the Biblical account and carriage rides as well as a visit from Santa.
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATIONS Each year, Chilton County hosts several events to ring in America’s birthday. Clanton’s annual fireworks show is held on July 4. For more information, contact City Hall at 205-755-1105. The town of Thorsby traditionally holds an annual celebration the last Wednesday in June. 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 205-646-3575. 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. 12
FACES AND PLACES 2019
Maplesville hosts fireworks on July 4. For more information, call town hall at 334-366-4212.
VETERANS MEMORIAL The 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.
Paint Like No Other
®
Stain that Enhances and Protects Enduring beauty. ARBORCOAT® preserves decking, fencing, and siding in a range of opacities and colors.
Stop by or call. We’re here to help! Mullins Decorating Center 700 1st Avenue Clanton, AL 35045 (205) 755-3477 ©2017 Benjamin Moore & Co. Arborcoat, Benjamin Moore, Paint like no other, and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co.
FACES AND PLACES 2019
13
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.
CONFEDERATE MEMORIAL PARK
The Alabama Historical Commission’s Confederate Memorial Park near Verbena is 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. The Park also includes a pavilion and a portion of the Piedmont Birding 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
1949-2019 70 Years
A Better Way to Bank Checking • Savings • Certificates of Deposit Mortgage and Commercial Lending
102 5th St., North, Downtown Clanton 14
FACES AND PLACES 2019
205-755-3975 Southfirst.com
County Road 63 in Marbury. For more information about the park, call 205-755-1990.
LAKE MITCHELL Lake 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.
EN FUEGO En 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. 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, For King and Country, TobyMac, Kari Jobe and Kutless.
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. En Fuego 2019 will take place Aug. 24 in Verbena. Tenth Avenue North will headline the event. For more information, including directions, complete band lineup and how to volunteer, visit www. enfuegoinfo.com.
SUMMER THEATER PRODUCTION The Central Alabama Performing Arts Guild produces a play in Chilton County each summer. This year’s production “Death by Dessert” was held on July 27. For more information, visit the Central Alabama Performing Arts Guild Facebook page.
FACES AND PLACES 2019
15
CLANTON
STRONG COUPLE Singletons ingrained in local economics, development Billy and Sylvia Singleton together at an event.
Billy had a lifelong dream of becoming a pilot, and he accepted a job flying some smaller aircraft before becoming an airline pilot at the age of 25. He was a commercial airline pilot for 21 years. illy and Sylvia Singleton have been During that time, he flew routes in Europe, Canada, married for 31 years. The pair grew up in Monroe County the Caribbean and all over the United States. He said his favorite sight from up in the air was and went to different high schools this nation’s capital, when his route would require before meeting in college.
STORY BY J.R. TIDWELL PHOTOS BY CONTRIBUTED
B
CLANTON FAST FACTS CITY HALL 505 Second Ave. N Clanton, AL 35045 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 580 Clanton, AL 35046 PHONE NUMBER 205-755-1105
16
FACES AND PLACES 2019
FAX NUMBER 205-755-7650
ZIP CODE 35046-0580
WEBSITE www.clanton.al.us
ELEVATION 600 feet (183 meters)
POPULATION 8,756 (2018 estimate)
MAYOR Billy Joe Driver 205-755-4051
LAND AREA 21.93 square miles
CITY COUNCIL District 1: Jeffrey Price 205-280-1792 District 2: Bobby Cook 205-755-3418 District 3: Sammy Wilson 205-755-4841 District 4: Awlahjaday Agee 205-755-5075 District 5: Mary Mell Smith 205-755-0410
Billy Singleton became a pilot at the age of 21. He has flown everything from small propeller planes up to commercial airline jets.
him to fly north along the Potomac River. Sylvia went to Ed Reid Technical College and earned a general business diploma.
“I soon found out that was not going to get me very far,” she said. “I started attending Patrick Henry Junior College, and that’s where I met Billy. From there, I finished my accounting degree at Auburn University at Montgomery.” The two were married in 1988 and decided to move to Chilton County. “I started working for H&R Block and was with them for 25 years,” Sylvia said. “From there, I went to the City of Jemison and was their municipal clerk for four years before I became the county administrator.
“(Working for Jemison) was my first opportunity to work with government accounting and politicians. I was basically their chief financial officer and advisor. The staff there was totally incredible. I always felt like if it hadn’t been for the staff that I had, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish those things. It’s kind of hard to take credit for something when you’ve got all these people working for you and doing such a good job.” The Singletons have three daughters, all of whom are grown now. “It was an absolute blessing,” Billy said. “They are so close. They probably visit each other more than they visit us.” Since Billy was traveling for work three out of every four weeks, Sylvia was often left on her own to run the family and take care of things at home.
FACES AND PLACES 2019
17
“For a long time, people thought Sylvia was a single parent,” Billy said. “Sylvia had to be so independent. I can remember a couple of snows where I was stuck in Philadelphia and she was at home with three girls and no electricity. If a sink got clogged or whatever, she had to deal with it. I have always had great confidence because she was with them. Sylvia and I were likeminded in how we wanted them to be raised.” “Scheduling three children involved in three entirely different activities (was tough),” Sylvia said. “While Billy may have been away, he has been held hostage on the phone many times. He would take a call at any time. I don’t know that it was really a challenge. I sort of had free reign to raise the children and run the house as I saw fit. He would come home, jump right in and go where we were going, or we would divide and conquer going to different activities with the children. It’s been a really good life.” Billy eventually decided to leave his life as a commercial airline pilot behind in order to be with his family more often. He took a job flying smaller corporate aircraft in Birmingham. He now serves on the authority board for the Chilton County Airport. Billy also became a member of the board of directors for the Chilton County Chamber of Commerce before becoming president of the organization in January. “While serving on (the airport board) you interact with county commissioners, mayors and city council members,” Billy said. “You see the benefits to the community economically. It’s such an important part of that. As part of bringing the airport to benefit the citizens of Chilton County, I think it was a natural move to (go to) the Chamber of Commerce. I have been interested in the economic development of Clanton and Chilton
Sylvia Singleton sits in the pilot’s seat of an aircraft.
Medicare Viva Health Blue Cross/Blue Shield
18
FACES AND PLACES 2019
Billy and Sylvia Singleton met at Patrick Henry Junior College and were married in 1988.
County. When the opportunity came to serve on the Chamber board, I jumped at it.” Sylvia became the county administrator just over a year ago. She entered the position on the heels of a former administrator who was convicted of embezzling funds from a different county as part of a previous position. “I had seen the county had some turnover for some time in their office, and I saw it as an opportunity and a challenge,” she said. “From what I had learned as a municipal clerk, I felt like I might be able to bring that to the county as well. As it turns out, I have thoroughly enjoyed it. It has been quite a challenge, but there again, I was blessed with a great staff. With their help, we have been able to make some great strides. “I don’t think we were affected by (the previous administrator). I was just one more administrator coming through the door. The fact that I have stayed there may be noteworthy. We have worked really hard to bring the accounting system up to par, record keeping and the integrity of the office. We have worked hard to bring that up to a new level.” An example of Billy and Sylvia’s work intersecting to a degree lies in the planned Alabama Farm Center at ALFA Centennial Park set for construction near Exit 212. “When we look at the potential of the 212 exit, I think we now realize that is going to be such a huge endeavor that no one municipality can do it alone,” Billy said. “It is going to take a cooperative effort on all of us to make it happen. I think that’s where the Chamber comes in. One thing we have pushed so hard to communicate is that we need to be collectively working together, and it is my hope that the Chamber can bring those people together.” “In order for the county commissioners to be able to do what they need to, we need to find the financial backing,” Sylvia said. “We need a big plan in place so when the time comes the funds are there for us to be able to progress. “Commissioners have a lot of things requested of them. However, as much as they would like to do, they are of course constrained by money. I try to work with them to set some goals and plan, these are some things we can do, but this is as far as we can go where finances concern. We have worked really well budgeting and staying within it since I have been there. I feel like some good things have come to the county.” FACES AND PLACES 2019
19
HIGHWAY SWEET STOPS Chilton County has several attractions ing barbecue and a playground. Peach located right off Interstate 65. Park is open during the peach season from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. For PEACH PARK more information, contact Peach Park at Gene and Francis Gray built Peach 205-755-2065. Park in 1984 so they wouldn’t have to haul peaches to New Orleans to sell them. DURBIN FARMS MARKET Their two sons, Mark and Derek, still run Durbin Farms Market, located off Exit the business. 205, specializes in peach pecan ice cream The park is located off Exit 205, and and averages 180-200 gallons of ice includes a fruit market with homemade cream sold per day during busy weekpeach ice cream, homemade cobbler, fried ends in the summer. pies and a gift shop. Durbin’s began as a seasonal fruit Peach Park has added a garden area market and now features a sandwich with a walking path, a food menu featur- shop, fruits and vegetables and a selec-
tion of plants and gifts at LJ’s Boutique. During the summer months, the business is open Monday through Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday to Sunday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. During the rest of the year, the business is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. For more information, contact Durbin Farms Market at 205755-1672.
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. “Sweet as a Peach Boutique” is located inside of Todd’s Produce, and features clothing for children birth to age 12. Todd’s Produce is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during peach season. For more information, call Todd’s Produce at 205-294-5157.
HEATON PECAN FARM
Heaton Pecan Farm, located off Interstate 65 Exit 208, features treats and homemade delights for everyone to enjoy. John and Billie Heaton opened The Barn 12 years ago. The business is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended hours in the summer of 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Milk chocolate and white chocolate pecan halves are the farm’s best sellers. A number of other pecan sweet treats are available. Pecans are not the only things the Heatons have to offer. Several flavors of homemade ice cream and milkshakes, Belgian Waffles, salads, soups and grilled gourmet, specialty and deli-style sandwiches are also served. Favorites include their pecan chicken salad plates and homemade cakes. Heaton also sells gifts, home decor and jewelry. For more information, call 800-446-3531 or visit www.heaton. com. 22
FACES AND PLACES 2019
SUBSCRIBE! EMERGENCY DELIVERY TO YOUR MANAGEMENT AGENCY
B
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 estimated 100 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.
Mailbox!
PANCAKE DAY
P
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. Ten 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. To purchase a ticket, see a Methodist Men member or call the church office at 205-755-0490.
YELLOWLEAF CREEK MILL
Y
ellowleaf Creek Mill is a grist mill in Clanton that dates back to the 1850s. 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, visit the website at yellowleafcreekmill.com. FACES AND PLACES 2019
23
ST. VINCENT’S CHILTON
S
t. Vincent’s Chilton is Chilton County’s only hospital. Established in 2016, the hospital has an emergency room, intensive care, surgery and a wing of specialty clinics. The hospital is a part of St. Vincent’s Health System allow-
ing for shared electronic medical records by request among the six locations in three cities. St. Vincent’s Chilton was designed to be one of the most energy efficient hospitals in the country with the latest medical technology.
CHILTON COUNTY EXTENSION
BLAST PAST
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 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 Chilton County Extension Office, contact County Extension agent Gay West at 205-280-6268.
ne of the most enduring events in Chilton County has been the musical fundraiser “Blast from the Past” at Chilton County High School. Chilton County High School students 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. The show is offered three times during the last weekend in February. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased from CCHS starting in January.
T
2019
ATTORNEY GUIDE
Attorney at Law Serving Chilton and Surrounding Counties
(205)280-4234
BAXLEY LAW OFFICE 104 6th Street South Clanton, AL 35045 amanda.baxley174@gmail.com
O
Do you need legal help?
AMANDA BAXLEY
(205)280-4230
FROM THE
CONTACT ONE OF THE ATTORNEYS LISTED BELOW.
FLETCHER D. GREEN Attorney at Law 102 6th Street South P.O. Box 1607 Clanton, AL 35046
205-755-8386
Ali Upchurch Garrett, Attorney at Law
402 1st Avenue Clanton, AL 35045
(205)755-1300 www.aligarrettlaw.com
*ALABAMA STATE BAR RULES REQUIRE THE FOLLOWING IN ALL ATTORNEY ADS. “NO REPRESENTATION IS MADE THAT THE QUALITY OF LEGAL SERVICES TO BE PERFORMED IS GREATER THAN THE QUALITY OF LEGAL SERVICES PERFORMED BY OTHER LAWYERS.”
24
FACES AND PLACES 2019
JEMISON
FOCUSED ON SERVICE Rex Bittle involved in community in many ways STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOYANNA LOVE
J
emison Councilman Rex Bittle enjoyed his childhood in Alabama so much that after moving away in college and establishing his career he looked for a way to return. Bittle grew up in Pelham and had moved to Atlanta in college.
“I had a great childhood here,” Bittle said. Rex Bittle is the branch “I wouldn’t say it was anything super special. manager for Regions It was just a very happy childhood with good Bank. friends at Pelham High school.” He attended the University of Montevallo for two years before moving to Atlanta to be with his parents, who had moved because of his father’s job. Bittle later graduated from Georgia State University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. FACES AND PLACES 2019
25
Rex Bittle has served on the Jemison City Council for seven years.
Jemison reminds Bittle of what Pelham was like when he was growing up, and he wanted to raise his children in a similar atmosphere. “I like the values of Alabama,” Bittle said. “I like what the general public stands for. I like how we vote as a whole for the most part.” Bittle moved to Hayden, Alabama when a sales position with the company he worked for at the time became available. When his company was going to move him back to Atlanta, Bittle changed jobs, going to work for a friend who was opening a business in Chilton County in order to stay in the state. 26
FACES AND PLACES 2019
Bittle moved to Jemison in 2005. He had traveled through Jemison and knew it was a place he would enjoy living in. He said the city has a lower cost of living than nearby Shelby County but is close enough to be convenient for shopping there. The public schools in Jemison also had a good reputation, a reputation that it has maintained, Bittle said. Rex and his wife Gillian have four children, so this was an important element for them. In 2005, the oldest child was in fourth grade. A visit to Jemison City Hall soon after settling in made a lasting impression for him.
“I asked if I could see the mayor (Eddie Reed), and they said ‘Sure,’” Bittle said. He said the mayor welcomed him into his office and sat down on the same side of the desk with him. “He was so welcoming and so open and so positive, I thought, ‘wow, this is pretty neat,’” Bittle said. Bittle said when Dearl Hilyer won his race for mayor of Thorsby, it gave him the encouragement he needed to run for the Jemison City Council. Bittle has served on the Jemison City Council for the past seven years. “Mostly, I was just interested in helping out my local community,” Bittle said. Serving District 4, Bittle said he was “interested in what I could do for my neighborhood and those around me.” During his time on the council, this desire to serve has spread to include all of Jemison. He said while each Councilman has the district he serves, residents who may know one better than another will usually go to the person they know. “We do serve a little bit at-large even though you are technically voted in by district,” Bittle said. During his time as a councilman, Bittle said he has seen good things happen, including “being financially solvent ... better responsibilities.” He said the economic downturn was starting to really impact the city when he first joined the council, and he felt that he was able to contribute to the city working through issues. He hopes to see the city be able to expand its road improvements and sewer services. From the time, he first came to serve on the governmental board, Bittle has wanted the city to be able to extent sewer in District 4, including his neighborhood. Upgrades to the existing system have been made. These upgrades have brought the system into full compliance with the state and saved the city money.
“The sewer system is one of the most difficult things that we (the council) work with,” Bittle said. About three years ago, Bittle was a driving force in the establishment of the Jemison Lions Club. He had been a member in Hayden but had never been in leadership. Lowell Bonds of Lions Club International had met Bittle on a trip through Jemison and encouraged Bittle to help start a club. Bittle drafted a list of potential members and Lions leaders came in to help recruit members. The club was chartered in 2016. “It is the only service organization in Jemison,” Bittle said. Today, the group has a core group of members and sponsors the annual Blackberry Pageant. Money raised from the pageant is used to support local service projects and needs. The club has also sent six students to the Alabama Lions Leadership program. Bittle has served as membership chair and president for the club. Rex and Gillian are the co-presidents of the Jemison High School band boosters program. “We just love it,” Rex Bittle said. He said the hoped each of his children would be interested in music and band to keep the family from having to split up each night to get children to their events. “They all enjoyed that (music),” Rex Bittle said. “I didn’t force that, but they all enjoyed that.” Bittle is the branch manager at Regions Bank right across the street from Jemison City Hall. He said the distance makes it easy to get to meetings on time but also means getting a lot of people at the bank asking him about Jemison city business. “Across the board it’s been a positive experience,” Bittle said. He said working outside of his district has given him the opportunity to know many Jemison residents.
JEMISON FAST FACTS 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
ELEVATION 719 feet (219 meters)
District 2: Donnie Lane 205-688-2898
POPULATION 2,660 (2018 estimate)
MAYOR Eddie Reed P.O. Box 609 Jemison, AL 35085 205-688-4492
District 3: Robert Morris 205-688-2538
CITY COUNCIL District 1: George Brasher 205-688-2560
District 5: Sam Reed 205-238-9288
LAND AREA 8.1 square miles ZIP CODE 35085
District 4: Rex Bittle 205-396-4145
FACES AND PLACES 2019
27
CITY HALL COMPLEX CENTER
T
he Jemison City Hall Complex Center is available for events. It is also the site of the annual Jemison Library Fairytale Show and Master Gardener meetings. It can hold up to 440 people and has a sound board,
microphones, a laptop plug in, two screens and two projectors available for use. Reservation of the space is available by appointment. To reserve, call the library at (205) 6884491, ext. 318.
STARWOOD II FARM
S
tarwood II Farm is located in Jemison and was purchased by Buddy and Diane Stith in 2005. Starwood offers a rustic setting with a lakefront, covered pavilion and ventilated barn creating the dream wedding scene. Four cabins are available for the bride, bridesmaids, groom, groomsmen and family to have a comfortable environment to prepare and dress for the big day. It is not available for an overnight stay but you can come to the venue anytime the week of the wedding to decorate and check on details. Valet parking, tables and chairs are provided. Corporate meetings or outings also can be hosted with fly fishing, skeet shooting, an outdoor pavilion and more available. Fly Fishing offered onsite teaches the techniques of casting, tackle, cleaning and catching. It usually runs around four hours for beginners with breakfast and brunch provided. This is a great way for Boy Scouts to earn their “fly fishing” badge.
Team building events for up to 10-35 people are offered to conduct off-site meetings, manage sessions or provide director meetings. The scenery provides great photo opportunities for engagement, family, senior portraits and more. For more information, call (205) 936-5308 or stithbuddy@gmail. com.
MINOOKA PARK
M
inooka Park located between Jemison and Calera in North Chilton County on U.S. Highway 31 offers a 25-mile trail system, used for ATV and dirt bike riding, walking, hiking and horseback riding. The trails offer views of some of Central Alabama’s most breathtaking scenery and cover various terrain. A wide variety of birds can also be seen, which has led to this trail being added to the Piedmont Plateau Trail. Minooka’s trails are also part of the National Trails System and the Passport to Fitness, a project of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) to promote fitness opportunities in Alabama.
28
FACES AND PLACES 2019
The park offers several piers for fishing in Minooka Lake. The lake is also visible from a large deck behind the main office building, the main pavilion and an overlook below the pavilion. Minooka offers many RV campsites equipped with 30- and 50-amp electrical service and water supply, and 10 sites offer sewage hookup. A dump station is located just outside the campground. For more information, including maps and complete list of fees and regulations, visit the park’s website at newchiltoncounty.org/ minookapark/minookaparkhome.htm.
sp Sa
Je tim Se
HIDDEN MEADOW VINEYARD
B
ill and Janette Bailey’s family-owned Hidden Meadow Vineyard and Winery opened for business in 2011. Bill became interested in starting his own winery and now owns a four-acre vineyard at 664 County Road 606. Wine sold at Hidden Meadow is crafted on site from the vineyard’s fruit, which includes Muscadine (Noble, Carlos and Magnolia) and Cynthiana grapes. There are 15 varieties including those made from local blueberries, blackberries, and Chilton County peaches. In addition to the vineyard, the winery includes a family-built wine selling and tasting house with a processing room behind it. The winery has a variety of wines to choose from including sweet reds and whites and drier reds aged in oak. 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.
vi fu
LO
BLACK AND BLUE BERRY FESTIVAL
P
etals from the Past, a nursery specializing in heirloom plants, sponsors an annual festival in early June in celebration of the blackberry and blueberry harvest. The event usually features tastings, agricultural earning opportunities, vendors, music, a petting zoo and hay rides. For more information, call 205-646-0069 or visit their website at www. petalsfromthepast.com.
BLACKBERRY PAGEANT
T
he Jemison Lions Club holds the annual Blackberry Pageant in April. The pageant raises funds for the club’s efforts to help the community. The Queens participate in the Black and Blue Berry Festival and various events throughout the year. The 2019 Queens are Miss Blackberry Katie Littlefield, Junior Miss Kara Gore, Young Miss Blackberry Alison Bazzell , Little Miss Adalyn Gray and Tiny Miss Alivia Ellison. FACES AND PLACES 2019
29
THORSBY
FINDING A HOME Thorsby’s mayor leads the town he fell in love with STORY BY ANTHONY RICHARDS PHOTOS BY CONTRIBUTED
T
horsby Mayor Robert Hight has learned a lot about what it takes to balance being the town’s mayor, a business owner and a family man since he was elected in 2016. Hight’s path to becoming mayor did not start out as the initial goal. “I thought about running for Council, but I hadn’t really thought about running for mayor,” Hight said. “Some people came to me and asked if I would consider running for mayor, because they didn’t think the town was going in a positive direction. I talked about it and prayed about it and decided that I would.” He was born and raised in Kissimmee, Florida before moving the family to Thorsby in 2006. Hight, far right, was Hight’s initial impression of the town came when he elected the town’s mayor made the trip up to help a neighbor move to Thorsby. in 2016.
30
FACES AND PLACES 2019
“We liked the area, so we looked into moving up here ourselves,” Hight said. According to Hight, he and his wife Candace were already exploring the option of moving somewhere in north Florida or south Georgia prior to catching a glimpse of Thorsby. “Central Florida was just getting overpopulated and too commercialized,” Hight said. “Kissimmee was a good place to make money but was not family oriented.” Thirteen years later, Hight considers himself a true Thorsbian and enjoys the small town culture that comes along with it. “A lot of people don’t look at me as an outsider any more,” Hight said. “They just assume we grew up here.” That is partly due to Hight being deeply involved in the Thorsby community over the years as his children have grown up playing sports.
Whether it was coaching at the youth league or working the chains on the sidelines at high school football games, Hight continued to search for ways to stay active. “I would help out anyway that I could,” Hight said. The tight knit feel of the community and slower-paced lifestyle was extremely appealing to him from the start. As is often the case, education plays a major role in the decision-making process when planning to move. “Everybody we talked to loved Thorsby School,” Hight said. “That was a big part of it.” According to Hight, of his three children, the move was toughest on his daughter Amanda because she was in 10th grade at the time and had to transition to a new school with new friends. Hight owns an auto repair shop, which he opened up shortly after moving to town. According to Hight, building those relationships with people of Thorsby through his business over the years came to the forefront when it came time to run for public office. “I think that people realized from when I worked on their vehicles that I’m going to be honest with them, and when I tell them something, I’m going to do my best to do it,” Hight said. “Once you gain people’s trust, they are pretty loyal.” It can be difficult at times to find funding and the necessary resources needed in a small town. His focus in office has been searchg for excess costs that can be trimmed ing
down to help save some money by taking a long look at how the town approaches things. “We’ve done a lot the past three years, but there’s a lot more to do,” Hight said. “You can’t do it all in four years but if you get it moving in the direction you think it should go, that’s all you can do.” One of the things that surprised Hight about being mayor is the amount of time it takes. Despite the position being listed as a part-time position, Hight said it takes a full-time commitment in order to give the job its proper respect. “You’re on the clock 24 hours a day with meetings three or four nights a week,” Hight said. “I’m hands on, so when my name’s behind it I want to make sure it’s done right.” Roughly 2,000 people live in Thorsby. “I want to help people, and I don’t want to cut them off or be short with them,” Hight said. “I try to take the time to deal with each issue one-onone.” One of the long-term goals that Hight would love to see come to fruition during his tenure is to develop a youth football field and walking track on five acres of land next to the baseball fields. Getting more businesses to come into town to create an increased revenue stream is something that is always being discussed. “I think most residents should try to get involved in their town,” Hight said. “If you are going to live in an area and are concerned about it,, yyou should gget
Hight holds his grandchild.
He enjoys fishing j y deep-sea p g while on vacation.
THORSBY FAST FACTS TOWN HALL P.O. Box 608 Thorsby, AL 35171 PHONE NUMBER 205-646-3575 FAX NUMBER 205-646-2414
WEBSITE www.townofthorsby.com
ELEVATION 696 feet (212 meters)
Marilyn Collins 205-646-3782
POPULATION 2,063 (2018 estimate)
MAYOR Robert Hight 205-646-3575
Chastity Chapman 205-646-3575
LAND AREA 5.2 square miles ZIP CODE 35171
TOWN COUNCIL Neil Benson 205-646-2936
Marvin Crumpton 205-646-3575 Glenn Littleton 205-646-3638
FACES AND PLACES 2019
31
Thorsby Mayor Robert Hight and his family moved to Thorsby from Kissimmee, Florida in 2006.
involved. It’s important to educate yourself about what’s going on so that you know without relying on rumors and gossip.” Hight encouraged residents throughout the county to attend the council meetings of their specific municipalities or the Chilton County Commission meetings. “You can go and just sit in a meeting and learn a lot,” Hight said. “If nothing else, you can see what the people on the Council or the Commission’s train of thought is.”
32
FACES AND PLACES 2019
Hight with the 2016 Swedish Queens.
HELEN JENKINS CHAPEL
H
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. 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 gave it to the town in the late 1980s. It was used by the Thorsby High School band until 1997. The following year, the town formed a committee to restore the structure, which was in despair. Graduates of Thorsby Institute, along with local businesses and other generous individuals, raised the money to restore the chapel back to its former glory.
SCANDINAVIAN CEMETERY
T
he Scandinavian Cemetery in Thorsby came into existence when Swedish Lutheran Church members bought the land in the late
Courtesy of Kristen Vines Photography
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.
SWEDISH FESTIVAL
T
he town of Thorsby gets together every October to celebrate its heritage by hosting the annual Swedish Festival at Richard Wood Park. The event will be held October 12, 2019. The festival features numerous activities for the entire family, including a parade, car show and 5K Viking Run. Richard Wood Park has most of the activity with arts and crafts booths, food vendors, games and other attractions. 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.
FACES AND PLACES 2019
33
MAPLESVILLE
ROAD OF PEACHES Harrison sells on Hwy. 82
STORY AND PHOTO BY JOYANNA LOVE PHOTOS BY KEITH MCCOY
“I Jerry Harrison inspects fruit in his orchard.
’m probably one of the first ones who ever started selling peaches on this highway,” Jerry Harrison said as he sat by a fan trying to stay cool at his produce stand, The Horn of Plenty, on Highway 82 near the Chilton-Autauga County line. “I was 7, 8 years old,” Harrison said. “My granddaddy had an old flatbed truck, and they would put peaches on it and just park me on the side of the road. I would sit there all day selling peaches off that truck.”
Later, around the time Harrison was 10, the family established a fruit stand four miles from where they lived. “Several times, I would sell out and walk home, walking four miles,” Harrison said. “I would not let anybody pick me up because I was afraid they would get my money.” Harrison grew up with a Maplesville zip code and still lives in the area. Today, his peach orchard is in Chilton County, but the fruit stand is in Autauga County. “I started when I was 5 or 6 years old being in the peach orchard, and I’m 79 now,” Jerry Harrison said. He helped his father in the family orchard located at the intersection of County Road 15 and Highway 82. “It’s all I’ve done all my life,” Harrison said. “I’ve enjoyed it being outside ... being my own boss.” Other members of the Harrison family still run a peach stand at that intersection. However, Jerry Harrison took over operation of The Horn of Plenty in 1982. The fruit stand was established by his father-inlaw Newton Chandler. “He retired from the Air Force and put out a few peach trees as a hobby and got more than he thought, so he built this fruit stand in 1962,” Harrison said. Harrison’s mother-in-law Madge Chandler named the fruit stand Horn of Plenty.
MAPLESVILLE FAST FACTS TOWN HALL 9400 Alabama Hwy. 22 Maplesville, AL 36750 MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 9 Maplesville, AL 36750 PHONE NUMBER 334-366-4212
34
FACES AND PLACES 2019
FAX NUMBER 334-366-4210
ZIP CODE 36750
WEBSITE www.townofmaplesville.com
ELEVATION 351 feet (107 meters)
POPULATION 702 (2018 estimate)
MAYOR W.C. Hayes Jr. 334-366-4383
LAND AREA 3.3 square miles (8.5 square kilometers)
TOWN COUNCIL District 1: John Caudle 334-366-4211 District 2: Sheila Hall 334-366-0052 District 3: Hal Harrison 334-645-7026 District 4: Richard Davis 334-366-5214 District 5: Patty Crocker 334-366-4432
Travelers along Highway 82 often stop for fruit.
Peggy Harrison, Jerry’s wife, said she had lived in Chilton County in elementary school but moved because her father was in the Air Force. She returned to Chilton County when he did. Peggy and Jerry were married on May 23, 1968 and have been married for 51 years. The couple has three daughters and one son. All of them have stayed in the area.
Jerry Harrison holds his most recent first place plaque from the Peach Auction. FACES AND PLACES 2019
35
Although Harrison’s children have careers of their own, they help out when they can. Harrison’s favorite peach variety is loring. “It makes a pretty, smooth peach and it is the sweetest one we have,” Harrison said. “It’s everybody’s favorite. I always said if I only had one variety in my whole orchard it would be lorings.” Peach ice cream and peach cobbler are his favorite ways to eat peaches. Harrison said he used to grow many more varieties than he does now, but he does have at least 20 varieties. “I’m getting too old, mom and the kids won’t let me set out no more,” Harrison said. Although Chilton County focuses on peaches in the summertime, particularly in June with the peach festival, peach farming is a year-round job. “In the wintertime, start pruning, then you have to thin them in the springtime,” Harrsion said. Fertilizer and insecticide are also important to getting a good peach. “I don’t hire any help,” Harrison said. “I do most of it myself.” This year’s harvest was cut short by a late frost. Harrison said some of the varieties he has that take longer to ripen were more plentiful than the early varieties. Harrison’s peaches have found favor at many a Chilton County Peach Auction. A Peaches ripen in the Harrison orchard in basket of his peaches holds the record for Chilton County.
The original sign can still be seen at The Horn of Plenty.
the highest sale of $8,000 as a part of the annual Clanton Lions Club fundraiser in 1996. Harrison’s peaches were named first place 21 times. Harrison said he enjoys participating as a way of giving back to the community. “I said a long time ago, Lord, if you let me have a crop of peaches, any awards I get go back to you,” Harrison said. Harrison sells more than peaches at his stand. In July, the stand sold watermelon, tomatoes, okra, cucumbers and squash. Harrison said he grows everything that is sold at the stand. Over the year when he’s not working, Harrison has enjoyed golf, hunting and fishing. He said he does not hunt as much as he used to. The Horn of Plenty has kept the same look it had under the original owners. Many times customers remember stopping at the stand with their grandparents as children. Because of the location, Tuscaloosa football players and other travelers often stop at the stand to get Chilton County produce.
The Horn of Plenty produce stand was established in 1962.
36
FACES AND PLACES 2019
24-HOUR CHALLENGE
T
he Perry Mountain 2 4 - H o u r Challenge is an annual 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 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 The event brings in dozens of try into Chilton County, as it is Ironman class, however, choose to take vendors and hundreds of motorcycle only one of two events like it in the the challenge by themselves. enthusiasts from all across the coun- nation.
MAPLESVILLE RAILROAD DEPOT
F
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 pre-
ferred 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.
EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH
E
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. The church celebrated its 200th anniversary in July 2019. FACES AND PLACES 2019
37
IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS Emergencies:
Jail:
911
205-755-1053
ABC Board:
SPAN Program:
334-271-3840
205-755-2779
Family Planning Office:
Higgins Ferry Park:
205-755-6973
205-755-5952
American Red Cross:
Minooka Park Ranger:
205-755-0707
205-312-1376
Family Violence Shelter:
Poison Control:
205-263-0218
800-462-0800
Appraisers Office:
Consumer Protection:
205-755-0160
205-261-7334
FBI:
Probate Judge:
334-263-1691
205-755-1555
Auto Tag and Title:
Council on Aging:
205-755-1258
205-670-5770
Food Stamps:
Social Services:
205-280-2500
205-280-2000
Better Business Bureau:
Department of Human Resources:
800-824-5274
205-280-2000
Forestry Commission:
State Troopers:
800-242-2504
205-755-1120
Board of Education:
District Attorney’s Office:
205-280-3000
205-755-4242
Girl Scouts:
Tax Assessor: 205-755-0155
Sheriff:
800-734-4541
District Court:
205-755-4698
Board of Registrars:
205-755-7233
Engineer:
205-755-3820
District Judge:
205-755-0530
Health Department:
205-755-1558
Unemployment Services:
205-755-1287
Property Tax:
205-755-6695
Boy Scouts:
205-755-7228
800-977-2688
Driver’s License:
Chilton County Extension System Office:
Chilton County Humane Society:
205-755-155
205-755-9170
Tag Division:
Bureau of Investigation:
205-755-1258
334-242-4372
Emergency Assistance Center:
Human Resources:
205-755-9467
205-280-2000
Title and Mfg Home:
Child Abuse:
205-755-7257
205-280-2000
Emergency Management Agency:
Industrial Development:
205-755-0900
205-755-5934 or 205-755-1120 38
FACES AND PLACES 2019
205-280-6268 Chilton/Shelby Veteran’s Service: 205-669-3835 Chilton/Shelby Mental Health: 205-755-5933 Alabama Power Company: 800-245-2244 Central Alabama Electric: 800-545-5735 Chilton County Water Authority: 205-646-3300
It’s easy to love the rain when you’re prepared for the storm. In Alabama, we love the rain. It gives us beautiful forests, a thriving agriculture and even helps power our hydro plants. But a thunderstorm is a different story, especially if the power goes out. Good thing Alabama Power is engineering and incorporating the latest technology to prevent outages and restore power faster than ever. As soon as it’s safe, our whole team works around the clock to get your lights back on. And we keep you informed about our progress. If you’ve got an outage, we’ve got you covered. Report online at AlabamaPower.com/reliable. Or call our 24/7 outage support line at 1-800-888-APCO (2726).
© 2019 Alabama Power Company
FACES AND PLACES 2019
39
t e k r a M s m r a F LJ 's at Durbin