I love having the opportunity to live in Tuscaloosa while attending college at The University of Alabama, but nothing will ever replace my hometown of Pelham, Alabama. If you too grew up or are from Pelham, here are seven things that you know good and well about our growing town.
1. "GO HAM" is/was your battle cry.
Some people say War Eagle, some people say Roll Tide, but if you went to Pelham High School, you know that "GO HAM" is our battle cry. If you ever attended Pelham High School (or what many students referred to as "'Prison On The Hill"), chanting "Go Ham" at every pep rally, assembly, or sporting event, was just naturally a part of the school spirit.
2. Hwy 119 (AKA Fast Food Heaven)
Anything. Almost EVERYTHING you could want to eat lies on or around highway 119. Right off the interstate, you will find anything from McDonald's to Taco Bell, Burger King, Chick-fil-a, Whataburger, Dairy Queen, Sonic, Wendy's, Arby's, Apple Bee's, Golden Corral, Texas Roadhouse, and much more.. this is where you'll find most of our town during the prime time lunch rush.
3. Snobiz, your idea of an icy treat.
Almost every city has their "go-to" snow cone spot, but none will ever out-do the perfection that is Snobiz. Located on Highway 31, this is THE summer "hot spot" (or chill spot) for everyone located around the Pelham/Hoover area. With small snow cones starting at $1.50 and the Big Kahuna costing only $4.00, the damage to your wallet is minimal. Did I mention there are over 50 flavors and toppings to choose from?
4. Cozumel Grill — Where do you want to eat?
When returning home from college, THIS is my number one "catch up" spot. Even when I'm not hungry, their chips and salsa (or queso) will lure me in the colorful doors. If you're a regular, you know that Rosie and her sweet family will always take care of you and provide you with the tastiest and most courteous restaurant experience you will find around town. Just be careful about planning to eat there on Sundays after church... it's the lunch crowd's favorite!
5. Pelham Civic Complex
What doesn't happen here? Ice skating, Graduation, Pelham Palooza... it's even the home of Frozen Tide Hockey! If you grew up in Pelham, many of your childhood memories probably took place here. People travel far and wide just to spend a few hours ice skating on the two ice rinks, located inside.
6. Oak Mountain (State Park, Amphitheatre, Lanes, etc.)
"There's nothing to do.." I've heard and said this one too many times while trying to figure out something fun to do with friends.. but, I can guarantee you that one of the places we would end up going to had the name "Oak Mountain" in front of it.
7. "Dat Boi" — AKA Dabo Swinney
That orange tiger flag waving in the wind isn't an Auburn flag... it's a Clemson Tiger flag. Though his success lies in South Carolina, our humble Birmingham suburb is the hometown to the (2017 National Championship) Clemson Tiger Football head coach, Dabo Swinney... and we won't let you forget it.
