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Numerous Chilton County residents gathered at Durbin Farms Market for a ribbon cutting for the grand opening of Chilton County’s 2011 Peach Season.

It was a “shocking” moment for Mattie Woodall when her name was announced as the 2018 Junior Miss Peach Queen.

The auditorium erupted in applause as Woodall stepped forward to accept her crown.

“At first, I thought I wasn’t going to get anything. And so, I was very nervous, but that’s OK,” she reflected afterward. “And then, they called my name, and it was just really shocking.”

Woodall said she had won the Young Miss Peach Queen title 2013, which helped her understand this year’s competition better.

The 2018 Junior Miss Peach contestants included Woodall, Bella Collins, Chloe Haggard, Ana Nunn, Sophie Porter, Amanda Claire Williams and Alyssa Sharnece Ziegler.

Zeigler placed as third alternate and was additionally declared Miss Congeniality.

Haggard placed as second alternate, next to her casual wear win.

Porter was named first alternate.

In her farewell speech, 2017 Junior Miss Peach Queen Halle Sullivan offered advice to this year’s Junior Miss Peach.

“Smile big, be kind. Know little eyes think you’re a real princess; show them you are,” she said. “Have fun, and most of all, remember pretty is as pretty does.”

During the event, winners for the Miss Peach Photogenic Contest were announced and presented commemorative plaques by the 2017 Peach Queens.

As a tribute unique to this year’s event, the Clanton Lions Club and the 2017 Peach Queens partnered to bestow a $1,000 check to the needs of the Cordell family, whose baby Daxton has been battling medical issues wrought by a tick bite since his hospitalization on Memorial Day.

“We ask that you keep them in your prayers and continue to help lift this family up,” Sullivan said.

In a special presentation, the Clanton Lions Club recognized Jim Pitts of the Auburn University Chilton Research and Extension Center for supporting the Peach Auction and the charities it benefits.

Probate Judge and Lion Bobby Martin presented checks for donations to W. Durden Dean for Alabama Lions Sight, and to Donny Martin for the Donny Martin Scholarship Fund.

The 2018 Miss Peach Queen contest is June 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Chilton County High School auditorium.

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