By SANDRA THAMES \ Community Columnist
A wide variety of jobs, education and interests can be connected to Chirstina Hale, owner of Chilly Balls Shaved Ice on Alabama 119 south across from Elliottsville Church. Hale was born in Ohio, and her parents now reside in Arkansas. She graduated from high school in Florida and attended Dallas Community College.
Children are daughter Taylor Woodall, age 20, a part-time student at Jefferson State Community College and son Peyton Woodall, age 11, who plays youth football.
“My children keep me balanced and can always find a way to make me smile. I am so blessed,” she said.
Favorite activities include camping, boating and hiking. Husband and business partner, Nathan Hale, and Christina Hale split their working hours at the store. One day after purchasing the business, Hale was sketching and came up with a penguin wearing sunglasses and sitting on a block of ice.
“He was so cool, I named him Fred after my paternal grandfather ‘Opa.’ ‘Opa’ and ‘Oma’ (grandmother) had much to do with who and what I am. Some of my happiest times are time spent with all of our German and Italian relatives,” she said. “It’s true: Cooking to them is an art and a way of showing deep love.”
“In order to make our business year round instead of seasonal, our activities take place inside. We have a high screen TV and every Wednesday and Saturday from 2-4 p.m. we have a PG movie, popcorn and a small icee,” Hale said. “Friday is karaoke day from 4-6:30 p.m. and we have birthday parties and other fun events.”
In other words, this is a safe place for the younger set to come and have fun. Because their ice machine came from Louisana the “cut” of the ice is a little different – more length and crunch – delicious! It might take a while to pick your favorite flavor but your Chilly Balls treat (served in a heavier grade paper cup) is worth the stop.
Come in and meet Nathan and Christina. They welcome your suggestions and want to stay for the long haul.