It’s a tradition whose roots run deep in history, culture and the church. Some might think it’s simply fashion, but for generations of Black women, donning beautiful, often elaborate hats, it’s an expression of identity, dignity and faith.
Ernestine O’Neal and her niece, Sherrell O’Neal, posing with the hat and photo of Ernestine’s mother and Sherrell’s grandmother, Annie O’Neal
The hats they wore to church on Sundays were a reflection of who they were – their personality – and each was distinctive, just like the women who wore them.
At First Baptist Church South in Pell City, members of the church wanted to capture the essence of that tradition in their own church and planned to have some of the women wear their ‘crowns’ on Mother’s Day. It was an idea church member Paula Jackson had, and the Women’s Ministry followed through with an impressive exhibit.
Illness caused the church’s original plan to change, and Women’s Ministry Leader Jennifer Gover decided to expand the reach, contacting women throughout the community to recruit for its “Women Who Wear Hats” exhibit. With the help of her niece, Chrissa Posey, the momentum grew into an exhibit on May 2, May 3 and Mother’s Day, May 10, to pay tribute to these women and their hats with 91 hats displayed from the women of 14 different churches.
“My lifesaver is my niece, Chrissa Posey, who has artistic inclinations and decided placement of the hats and suits,” Gover said. “She even prepared and set up refreshments for the exhibit.” Her behind the scenes work contributed greatly to the success of the event.
Elic Smith with the stunning suit and hat of his mother, Blossie Smith
From feathers to jewels to embroidery and lace, the hats ranged from simple, but elegant to elaborate and billowy. “We thought it was impressive,” said Gover. “It shows how the personalities are different. It wasn’t just something they wear on their head, but something from the heart.”
Nearby, a table of framed photos of the featured women – most in their signature hats – seemed to watch over the room as if surveying the handiwork that brought the event to fruition.
Elic Smith displayed the hat and stunning, matching suit worn by his 86-year-old mother, Blossie Smith. He couldn’t disguise the smile as he recounted his mother’s Sunday attire. “Miss B – You would have thought she would have been first lady.”
It’s a tradition that spans generations from slavery to present day, explained Charlotte Crawford. It was an outward expression of who they were within – “a classy, dignified lady. Each hat represents how they carried themselves. Ruby Sawyer Fomby always wore hats,” she said of her own mother.
Janice Carter echoed the recollections of others as she talked about her mother, Elnora Carter. “Mama wasn’t going to church without a hat or a suit.” Her grandmother, Mary Singleton, would buy two suits just alike and take a cuff or a piece from one and fix the other “just the way she wanted it.”
Elnora was a singer with B.J. and the Countryettes. “When she was singing, she had her hat, too.” It was like her personal signature for every performance.
“I grew up in a church where older women wore hats,” recalled Ernestine O’Neal. “You never wore pants to church.” The hats of Ernestine’s mother, Annie O’Neal, were a part of the exhibit. Annie was Sherrell O’Neal’s grandmother, and she noted that hats only came in one size, so women would sew or fasten material inside to make it fit tight.
Charlotte Crawford, daughter of Ruby Sawyer Fomby
To demonstrate, Sherrell tried on one such hat – a dainty, circular piece covered in blue feathers with a piece of felt placed inside – a perfect fit!
Bobbie Jo Swain of First Baptist Cropwell had the largest collection in the exhibit. Some in the overall display were vintage – 50 to 60 years old. Estelle Forman pointed to the hats of her mother, Bernice Joiner, and mother-in-law, Lizzie Forman, whose hats were featured in the display. Like the others, they were perfect fits for the way they carried themselves, she said.
An opening reception attended by 50 ladies – some of whom donated hats along with family, friends and others – shared precious memories the exhibit evoked.
One of the women asked if she could peek inside a straw hat with pink flowers. The label said Jack McConnell, a well-known milliner active in the mid to late 20th century. The hat’s owner was Caroline Gover’s mother, Della Jordan Gover. Caroline recalled it was bought 25 to 30 years ago at a small hat shop in Birmingham.
These women were serious about their hats, and they invested to get just the right one. They often shopped at a store in Ensley called Cotton’s. Later, they bought their hats locally from Kenwin’s or Mays and Jones with prices ranging from $50 to well over $200.
“They were willing to spend money on these hats,” Jennifer Gover said, and with good reason. It was as much a part of their personality as their smile, a laugh or a word of advice remembered long after they are gone.
“Today, women do not wear hats to church services as they did in the past,” Gover said. “We dress more casual, except for special occasions. But there are still a few who hold on to the tradition of bold and beautiful hats to complement exquisite suits or dresses.”
Remember, she said, “a hat is an expression of a black woman’s soul. It is something she wears on her head but belongs to her heart. It is the keynote of her personality – the finishing touch.”
Decades after helping launch the original National Wild Turkey Federation chapter in the Pell City area, Barnett Lawley was honored by a new generation of conservationists during the Logan Martin Longbeards’ sold-out Hunting Heritage Banquet at the Pell City Civic Center.
“Barnett has done so much for the state and the county to promote conservation efforts here,” said chapter President Jim Tollison.
“He started the first chapter here. When I was helping organize the chapter again, I did not know he organized the original chapter or what he called it. I ended up picking the exact same name he used – Logan Martin Longbeards.
Board members and organizers Tracy Marcus, Rodney Bunt, Jim Tollison, Brooke Tollison, Tim Smith, Brittany Smith, Karlee Tucker, Logan Tucker, Hanna Grogan and Cameron Edge
“When I found all that out, I said we need to thank him for that” and everything else he has done. “There is no telling how many kids from around here he has taken turkey hunting over the years. Some of them are the same people who are donors and sponsors for this event now. His efforts back then are still helping conservation and the NWTF today.”
Tollison was quick to point out it is not just Barnett, but everyone in his family who deserves thanks for supporting the community.
“He was teaching about conservation, and his wife, Deanna, was teaching students in the classroom. She probably is one of the main reasons I went to college. She kept encouraging me to go. This organization and event, it’s been a great situation having the Lawleys involved,” Tollison said.
The sold-out event moved to a larger venue this year at the Pell City Civic Center, raising more than $40,000 for the program, which covers everything from promoting conservation and hunting to education efforts, including local scholarships, Tollison said.
Participants entering in drawings to win everything from coolers to custom firearms
“We now have money in hand for scholarships, we just need people here to apply. And these scholarships can be used not just for four-year colleges, but for two-year degrees and trade schools, whatever path the students choose.”
Tollison and his wife, Brooke, thanked everyone who supported the Logan Martin Longbeards and the banquet.
“The Pell City Civic Center turned out to be a great venue. We will probably be holding it here again next year. They did a great job working with Hanna Grogan on our board to coordinate set up,” he said. “Complete Catering Company and Mandy Camp also did an amazing job with the food. It’s the only banquet I have ever been to that served turkey. It wasn’t wild, but it was good.
“Everything was well received. Thanks to our sponsors, we were able to give out 24 guns this year. Brian at BG Customs and Engraving put together several guns for us. GNX Gun Exchange and Coosa Guns also contributed,” he said.
The audience applauds all the sponsors
“Thanks to the support of GNX, BG Customs and Coosa Guns we are able to have some very high-quality firearms with some finishes only available at this event.”
Because the banquet is family friendly, every child who came got to take part in a raffle, Brooke, who runs an Alfa agency in Pell City, said. “We gave out $500 worth of stuff to all the kids. They had a great time.”
And that’s the point, Jim said.
“It’s not just about raising money. We wanted to have a fun and successful event that also promotes the National Wild Turkey Federation and conservation efforts,” he said.
“We have a great team putting this event on, and it continues to grow. If you see one of the board members and are interested in being involved let them know.”
Follow the Logan Martin Longbeards on Facebook and the National Wild Turkey Federation online at nwtf.org.
Fast paced, exciting dog agility trial takes center ring at arena
Story by Carol Pappas Photos by Bob Crisp
Four-footed competitors from across the Southeast headed to Odenville in April for an action-packed event at what has become a destination point for events as diverse and wide-ranging as the organizers who plan them.
St. Clair County Arena and Event Center has played host to everything from rodeos and circuses to vintage markets and truck shows. And in April, dogs of all shapes and sizes took to the arena filled with jumps, tunnels, weave poles and what planners called “plenty of tail-wagging excitement.”
Spectators, dog lovers and handlers came together for three days of Greater Birmingham Agility Club’s Spring Into Agility Trial, a mixture of a qualifying run for further competition, fine-tuning skills or simply sharing time with other dog agility enthusiasts. Organizers billed it as “a weekend of fast dogs, great runs, and even better community.”
Dog agility is “a dynamic and fast-paced canine sport where dogs navigate through a timed obstacle course, showcasing their agility, speed, and teamwork with their handlers,” according to GBAC’s website.
“Yes, your dog can definitely participate in dog agility,” GBAC added, “and we welcome all breeds, both mixed and pure, to join the excitement and fun of agility training and competitions.”
Agility training involves obstacle courses, obedience drills and agility trials.
When the day is done, the final hurdle crossed and a clean jump through the ring is made, it comes down to connections – the bond between dog and handler. Through this sport, that bond is promoted, strengthened and on display for all to see.
The next Odenville event is Nov. 15-17 for GBAC’s Fall Trial. Club officials are already looking forward to it, noting that the 100 x 100-foot ring offers plenty of room for “exciting and challenging courses for the dogs to navigate.
“This event promises an exhilarating experience for both competitors and spectators, making it a must-attend for the agility community.”
“We’ve really enjoyed working with the Greater Birmingham Agility Club and have had a great response from them about hosting events at the Arena,” said Public/Recreation Asset Manager Ashley Hay. “We try to work closely with every group that uses the facility to make sure we’re meeting their specific needs, especially when it comes to footing and ground preparation.”
She noted that dog agility trials have very specific requirements, “and we’re happy to accommodate those details, just like we would for any group using the space. Seeing them choose to return is a great sign that the partnership is working.”
The goal of the center complex and campus has centered on creating a facility that serves the community and evolves alongside the needs of the people and organizations using it.
“We want groups to know we’re listening and willing to adapt where we can,” she said. “In fact, groups like GBAC have helped shape some of our future improvements.” She credits their hosting of multi-day events and bringing participants in from outside the area with reinforcing the need for RV and trailer hookups, “which we’re now working to add.”
Hay also talked of the overall interest in the Arena continuing to grow. “More people realize it’s more than just a place that hosts rodeos. We’ve had great interest across a wide variety of events, from dog agility and vintage markets to equestrian events and community gatherings. It’s been exciting to see people discover new uses for the space and reinforces our belief that the Arena can continue growing as a place that brings together a wide range of interests across our community.”
Editor’s Note: The St. Clair Arena and Event Center is located at 100 Arena Drive, Odenville. Learn more about the facilities at: stclairco.recdesk.com
Ashville hilltop retreat drawing visitors from around the world
Story by Paul South Photos by Bob Crisp
A picturesque two-story farmhouse nestled against a St. Clair County hillside beckons visitors with a wraparound porch that practically says, “Y’all come.”
Combine that down home feel with culinary masterpieces that include the white tablecloth elegance of eggs Benedict or the salmon or chicken piccata for a wonderful dining experience.
Try the brunch staple Southern comfort of sausage gravy and biscuits, and you get just a bite of the farm to table magic of Corinne Burnham’s Haven on the Hill bed and breakfast and The Crooked Crown Restaurant, all in the same locale on Alabama Highway 23.
But that’s not nearly the whole story of the inn just outside Ashville that has welcomed visitors from across the country and around the world since Burnham rolled out the welcome mat three years ago.
Burnham, a Massachusetts native with more than 30 years of culinary experience, has a story as rich as s steaming bowl of clam chowder from her native New England.
This chef’s kitchen journey began at 14 when she landed a job frosting doughnuts at Adam’s, a local shop in Greenfield, Mass.
“When I was 15, I was old enough to work the counter,” she said. “Then I became a waitress, and I just absolutely loved it. I decided to follow through with the cooking end of things and moved forward in that direction.”
Then came a successful catering business in 1998. She opened her first restaurant in 2003. Rooster’s Bistro in Northfield, Mass.
What attracted her to the demanding, highly competitive restaurant industry?
“I enjoy the adrenaline rush from it.” Burnham said. “I love to create beautiful food and I’ve always had constantly changing seasonal menus in all my restaurants. I like when I look out into the dining room and see all the happy faces. I like the rush of that.”
Relax and enjoy a bite on the front porch
And she’s seen beaming faces from everywhere. Keep in mind. This is not a typical bed and breakfast. The restaurant is open for dinner on the weekends and also offers box lunches on request.
“I keep a canvas map of the world in an upstairs bathroom,” she said. “It’s really beautiful. I put a pin in the map every time someone visits, you know, from different states and different countries.”
Visitors have come from Ukraine, Australia and across western Europe. It’s a testament to how technology has revolutionized global tourism. On the morning of this interview, her Leibnitaz, Australia guest booked what will be her 12th visit to Haven on the Hill.
“She went to college over here and comes to visit her husband’s family and her college friends. She visits three or four times a year. After her 10th visit, I gave her a T-shirt,” she said.
“I put myself out on social media, Booking.com, Travelocity, and I think that those networks are where I get a lot of my overseas guests.”
Burnham also draws her share of domestic travelers. Every seven weeks, a father and son travel over from Georgia so that the Dad can lunch with his high school classmates.
Haven on the Hill features comfortable bedroom and bath accommodations
Her own journey to St. Clair County began in 2015 when her son Kyle joined the Navy, making her an empty nester.
“I had wanted and had always been attracted to living in the South and had done some traveling in the South throughout my life, and I told myself that if the opportunity ever came up … I was definitely going to get myself out of the snow. People here are just so friendly.”
She sees a spark of the Divine in her St. Clair story.
“I put my restaurant up for sale on a Thursday and had a cash offer that following Monday,” Burnham said. “I thought, ‘God’s telling me to do something,’ so I moved to Chattanooga first and became the number one caterer in Chattanooga in the first six months I was there.”
Then she explored Alabama and “fell in love” with Mentone, the closest thing the state has to an alpine village. She opened Plowshares restaurant there. After that, she opened a restaurant in Ft. Payne called 33. Haven on the Hill, her fourth restaurant, opened three and a half years ago.
The idea of a bed and breakfast in Ashville initially met with some skepticism. Burnham started slow as she converted the former private home to what it is today.
Haven on the Hill can also be the perfect venue
“It took about six months to change the carpet and the décor, and I thought I would just continue to cater, and we will see what happens,” she said. “I put a sign at the bottom of the hill, and it was just three or four months, and I was selling out all the rooms upstairs. So I ended up converting my two-car garage into an innkeeper’s suite so I’d have another room to rent out.”
The name for Haven on the Hill came naturally, she recalled.
“You can’t see another property from this property, and it’s on a hill. I just thought it was such a peaceful haven. You sit and listen to the birds. The people I bought the property from have a 200-acre cattle farm and sometimes through the trees you can see the farm animals. It’s really a true haven.”
Over time, as word spread about breakfasts at the inn, Burnham began getting requests for dinners, not just from overnight guests, but from staycationers as well, who would day trip from places like Birmingham and Odenville. A side porch – called The Crooked Crown was opened last November.
Overnight guests are served breakfast in the dining room from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. On weekends, The Crooked Crown opens from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. by reservation only for the general public. Dinner is served Friday and Saturday nights from 5 until 8.
Asked her philosophy of the restaurant business after 35 years in the kitchen, Corinne Burnham put it simply. “Food is my love language.”
She elaborated with a story. One morning, three couples were enjoying breakfast at Haven on the Hill. They began to talk about what their career paths might have been and drew Burnham into the conversation. One woman asked, “What would you have done?”
Crooked Crown table setting
She instantly responded. It seemed in an instant she was 14 again, gleefully icing doughnuts at Adam’s.
“A chef. I love what I do. I’m extremely passionate about what I do. It brings me so much joy to watch people enjoy the experience that I can create for them; I’m truly blessed that God has given me the ability to do what I have done.”
And she still remembers a lesson from Brad Smith, her boss at the first restaurant where she worked as a waitress. In her early days as a restauranteur, she would call him on Sunday afternoons, exhausted and on the verge of tears.
“Always have faith in yourself,” Smith told her. “And you have to continue to push through and get that last ticket out, regardless of what the situation is. And be kind to yourself, even when times are stressful in a very difficult industry.”
And for customers?
“People don’t want to eat the same thing. You have to keep customers curious about what’s around the next corner.”
And, for new diners who are uncertain of what to order, she has a gentle instruction.
“I’ll make it for you, and if you don’t like it, I’ll make you something else. And I’ve never had to make something else.””
When the St. Clair County Commission and Partnership for Tomorrow, a coalition of business, industry and local governments, invested in the St. Clair County Economic Development Council back in 1999, the most likely question was: What will be our return on investment?
Turns out, the county’s ROI has been sizable year after year since EDC’s inception – numbers that other communities would be hard-pressed to match even if they span multiple years, let alone a single one.
Proof of that was evident when 150 county leaders gathered for the EDC’s Annual Investor Breakfast this year, hearing a recap of the past 12 months and getting a glimpse at the future.
One of major players in the success story has been the county’s grant resource center headed by Candice Hill. In its first two and a half years, it has secured $12.75 million in grants, $2 million in appropriations and applied for $15 million in additional funds that do not have to come out of city funds. It is providing “solutions and funds for those solutions.”
EDC Executive Don Smith at the Annual Investor Breakfast
A $3.8 million grant awarded through the Growing Alabama program will spur development of a new commerce park in Springville that is expected to be a hub for regional economic growth.
In Pell City, TownePlace Suites by Marriott opened in February, representing a $12 million investment and approximately 20-25 new jobs to the local economy.
City, county and state officials in March cut the ribbon on Olive Garden and Longhorn Steakhouse in Pell City, bringing new dining options and more than 300 jobs to Pell City and St. Clair County.
The common thread running through all these projects are the key components to the county’s success over the years – collaboration and partnerships.
Springville Commerce Park
Springville’s $3.8 million grant partners the City of Springville with the St. Clair County Commission, the Industrial Development Board of St. Clair County, the State of Alabama and donors, including Norfolk Southern and Alabama Power, which provided the funds to clear and prepare sites for a rail-served commerce park off Interstate 59.
“Springville’s new commerce park will provide jobs and opportunity for hundreds of Alabamians, and its impact will surely be felt across St. Clair County and in surrounding communities,” said Gov. Kay Ivey.
“Alabama is open for business, and one of the key ways we show that support is by helping local governments prepare industrial sites to welcome world-class companies,” she said. “The Growing Alabama program has been a vital tool in that mission.”
Aerial view of the Springville Commerce Park development site
Growing Alabama is a public-private partnership that supports local industrial development efforts by providing resources for site development, infrastructure improvements and community readiness. Companies and individuals receive state income tax credits for donations made to approved economic development projects through the program.
Collaboration is the key ingredient behind the program’s success, said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
“The most successful economic development projects happen when everyone works together toward a common goal,” she said. “Growing Alabama is an example of that kind of teamwork, and great things happen when we all share a vision and strategy for building prosperous communities.”
McNair described St. Clair’s “secret sauce” for success as its ability to work together in regional cooperation. “Growth knows no city or county boundaries,” she said, and St. Clair is “unique” in keeping that culture of cooperation together. “It’s why you are so successful.”
The latest grant will provide site readiness at the Springville Commerce Park, strengthening the county’s ability to attract new industries, create jobs and support long-term economic growth.
The new park, located on property known as the Riley Farm, has the potential to provide more than 1,000 new jobs across multiple employers.
“This is not just a Springville commerce park but an I-59 commerce park,” said Springville Mayor Austin Phillips. “It will help employ citizens from all the surrounding counties. I am looking forward to what the future holds.”
Economic development is about partnerships, said St. Clair County Commission Chairman Stan Batemon. “We couldn’t have better partners. We work closely to support all our communities in the county.”
St. Clair Economic Development Executive Director Don Smith pointed out that this will be one of only a few parks that are rail served, noting that the county lost some industries in the past by not having sites served by rail.
Tyler Preast, Senior Manager of Industrial Development for Norfolk Southern, said the company’s support for the project reflects its commitment to fostering growth by attracting forward-thinking companies to create high-quality jobs.
“We’re proud to champion St. Clair County’s vision for building an industrial hub on Norfolk Southern’s rail network,” he said.
Marriott brand location speaks volumes
February saw community leaders, business partners and residents celebrating the official ribbon cutting of the TownePlace Suites by Marriott, marking the opening of Pell City’s first Marriott-branded hotel and a major milestone in the city’s continued growth.
Located at 265 Vaughan Lane, the 89-room TownePlace Suites is owned by Shivaay Hospitality LLC, led by co-owners Darshen Patel and Vishal Patel.
City Manager Tim Kurzejeski, Mayor Bill Pruitt, TownePlace Suites owners Darshen and Vishal Patel, Councilman Jay Jenkins
“We identified Pell City as a growing market and believed this location would be the perfect fit for our guests,” said Darshen Patel. “We are proud to officially open our doors and become part of this community.”
The hotel is conveniently located near Premiere Cinema, national brand restaurants and a variety of retail destinations. Designed for both short- and extended-stay guests, TownePlace Suites offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, complimentary Wi-Fi, free hot breakfast, a lobby bar, outdoor pool and a firepit area.
“Our guests have the flexibility to explore everything Pell City has to offer or enjoy a comfortable, convenient stay right here at the hotel,” added co-owner Vishal Patel.
City officials emphasized the importance of the new hotel in supporting tourism, business travel and ongoing economic development.
“Pell City is always supportive of new investment, and this hotel gives more people the opportunity to experience all the great things happening in our community,” said Mayor Bill Pruitt. “It also provides a high-quality lodging option for the manufacturers and businesses that rely on visiting executives and team members from out of town.”
St. Clair County Commission Chairman Stan Batemon also praised the project, noting its role in strengthening the county’s tourism and hospitality offerings. “As we continue to market tourism events and attract visitors to our area, having well-known hotel brands like Marriott is essential,” Batemon said. “This investment shows confidence in St. Clair County, and we are proud to support it.”
The ribbon cutting ceremony by the Pell City Chamber of Commerce highlighted the collaborative efforts between Shivaay Hospitality, the elected officials and business community that brought the project from planning to completion. “We have a growing business community in Pell City,” Chamber Director Urainah Glidewell added. “We believe additional brands will draw more people to our community and give them an opportunity to experiences that we enjoy daily.”
With Pell City as home to a half dozen international companies with 2,000 manufacturing jobs, hotels like this for visitors associated with those companies flying in was a definite need. The Marriott brand certainly helps fulfill that need, according to Smith.
“We are grateful for the support from Mayor Pruitt, the City Council, County Commission, and the entire community throughout this process,” Darshen Patel said. “We look forward to serving Pell City for many years to come.”
Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse open
By March, nearly back-to-back ribbon cuttings signaled a new era for dining in Pell City.
City, County and state leaders celebrated the Olive Garden brand’s newest restaurant in Pell City, marking an important milestone ahead of the restaurant’s official opening to the public on March 9. Longhorn followed on March 16.
Pell City Mayor Bill Pruitt gives thumbs up to steak at Longhorn
The openings reflect the continued growth and economic momentum in Pell City and St. Clair County. City leaders and developers highlighted the project because of strong collaboration between the private sector and local government.
“This new Olive Garden is another sign of the positive growth happening in Pell City,” said Mayor Bill Pruitt. “We’re proud to welcome a nationally recognized brand that sees the value in our community. Projects like this and other recent projects are possible because of the partnerships between the city, the county, our developers and the businesses choosing to invest here.”
The restaurant was developed in partnership with Bill Ellison, whose work has helped bring new commercial opportunities to the area for decades.
“We’ve seen incredible momentum in Pell City over the last several years,” said Bill Ellison, developer of the project. “The strong market growth, supportive local leadership, and the community’s enthusiasm made this an ideal location for Olive Garden. We’re excited to see this project come to life and contribute to the area’s continued development.”
Officials noted that the new location further strengthens Pell City’s position as a regional retail and dining destination for residents across St. Clair County and the surrounding region.
Jarred Jackson, General Manager for Olive Garden, said the company is excited to join the community with their growing brand and provide a quality service to local guests.
Developer Bill Ellison, the driving force behind Olive Garden and Longhorn, speaks at Olive Garden opening
“We’re thrilled to officially become part of the Pell City community,” Jarred Jackson added. “From the beginning, the collaboration with city leaders, county officials and our development partners made this a seamless process.”
Local leaders emphasized that the project mirrors the continued success of partnerships between municipal leadership, county officials and private developers working together to support responsible growth in St. Clair County.
“We want to commend Bill Ellison, the City of Pell City and Olive Garden for the investment in our county,” echoed County Commission Chairman Stan Batemon. “The Commission and I are happy to be part of this project from the beginning and to celebrate years of hard work.”
Ellison also developed the Longhorn project with the same partners as well as Metro Bank on both developments.
Ellison is quick to give credit to a saying his wife, Dana, shared with him. “Teamwork makes the dream work.” And while he is the spark that fuels the momentum, it’s the team that makes it happen.
Longhorn began in Atlanta, Ga., in 1981 and now nears the 600-mark for locations throughout the country and select territories.
For the 27th year, the Pell City Hometown Block Party is back. Once again, downtown Pell City will transform into a celebration of community, culture and hometown pride.
On June 6, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., the city’s historic downtown corridor will resonate with live music, local vendors, food, family-friendly activities and the energy that has made this event one of Pell City’s longest-running traditions.
But beyond the entertainment and festivities, organizers say the heart of the Block Party has always been rooted in something deeper.
So, what makes this event so special?
According to Urainah Glidewell, executive director of the Pell City Chamber of Commerce and coordinator of the event, it all comes down to the people.
A night of entertainment, food and fun
“Pell City is a thriving community filled with people and businesses that contribute to our city’s growth,” Glidewell said. “Nonetheless, we find a way to stay true to the city’s origins.”
That balance between progress and preservation is part of why the Block Party has remained in downtown Pell City for nearly three decades.
“We have so many historic buildings that are not only beautiful, but still occupied by thriving businesses,” she said. “Hosting the event downtown allows us to bring attention to those spaces and celebrate the history that continues to shape who we are today.”
As the Block Party enters its 27th year, organizers are focused on expanding what the celebration represents while holding tight to its original purpose: bringing people together.
“This event is one of the oldest traditions we have,” Glidewell said. “We have so many wonderful resources: our beautiful lake, our economic growth and our amenities. But our greatest resource is our people. Everyone shows up to support, and there’s just a genuine friendliness that fills the streets.”
That spirit of connection is shaping new ideas for 2026, including the launch of an “I Love Pell City” campaign, an initiative designed to spotlight what residents love most about their hometown.
From the lake and local schools to downtown and small-town charm, the campaign aims to give attendees tangible ways to show their pride through pins, stickers and community engagement.
What’s new?
While many beloved traditions return, this year’s Block Party will introduce several refreshed experiences designed to deepen community participation. Among the highlights is the return of the popular car show. “This year, we’re relocating the car show to an area that will be safer for attendees and logistically easier to access,” Glidewell said. A portion of the proceeds from the car show will benefit The Children’s Place, a local non-profit organization focused on helping children and families affected by abuse.
From food trucks, vendors to children’s rides, a fun night for all
Of course, the event will also continue with its tradition of showcasing local musical talent. “There are so many wonderful artists, singers and bands who began right here in Pell City,” Glidewell said. “We want to celebrate that talent and give them a platform.” Entertainment will span multiple genres, including rock, country, gospel and R&B.
This year’s event will also include an expanded kids’ play area. New for 2026, Glidewell shared that organizers are intentionally creating activities designed to engage teens as well.
“We’re really working to find ways to get our teens involved,” she said. “From games and team-building activities to Giant Jenga and Connect 4, we want to make sure they have something fun to do.”
“There will truly be something for everyone,” she added.
Dancing in the streets
One highlight Glidewell is especially excited about is the addition of community line dancing, led by local line dancing groups. Two confirmed groups bringing the energy are the Pell City Line Dancers and Konnect 2 Dance.
At designated times throughout the event, attendees will be invited to step onto the dance floor together. “We want to get people moving, laughing and connecting,” Glidewell said. “What better way to do that than with a good line dance?”
Vendors, makers and marketplace finds
From food trucks, vendors to children’s rides, a fun night for all
Approximately 75 vendors are expected for the 2026 event, showcasing a blend of returning favorites and new participants. Attendees can stroll through booths featuring local artisans and makers, along with a variety of food trucks and specialty treats.
To improve the experience, organizers are reconfiguring the event layout for better walkability and traffic flow, making it easier for guests to navigate and enjoy all that downtown has to offer.
Powered by Community Partnerships
The Block Party’s longevity is made possible through strong partnerships with local organizations and sponsors. “We’re blessed to have wonderful partners who help make this event possible,” Glidewell said.
Ongoing collaborations with the City of Pell City, WinSouth Credit Union, Union State Bank and downtown businesses help us bring this event to life and improve it year after year.
Get Involved
Volunteer opportunities are available for those who want to support the event behind the scenes. Roles include setup, vendor assistance, logistics and breakdown support.
Interested volunteers may email info@pellcitychamber.com.
Vendor registration is also open, with booth fees set at $50. Participants must hold a city business license and can register through the Chamber’s website.
Event updates, vendor lists and entertainment announcements will be shared via the Pell City Chamber’s website and social media channels.
A growing tradition
The Pell City Hometown Block Party continues to evolve while staying rooted in its original mission: celebrating the people, places and pride that define the community.
From line dancing in the streets to supporting local artists and businesses, the event serves as both a reflection of Pell City’s past and a celebration of its future.
“This event is about celebrating who we are,” Glidewell said. “And inviting everyone to be part of it.”
