Gardendale Magazine - August 2026

Rockets prepare for a new football season

IN PICTURES:

Gardendale goes all out for America’s 250th PAGE 12 PAGE 8

CARRYING THE TORCH Tabernacle football, cheer preview PAGE 22

Beyond the Badge: The Gardendale Police Department

The Gardendale Police Department was created on July 7, 1955. Since its beginning to today, the members of the department work very diligently to provide professional law enforcement services to the citizens of Gardendale and maintain one of the lowest crime rates in Jefferson County covering over 23 sq mi and closing in on 20,000 residents, numerous businesses, hospitals and sports complex facilities. It is the mission of the Gardendale Police Department to safeguard the lives and property of the people we serve, to reduce the incidence and fear of crime, and to enhance public safety while working within the community to improve quality of life. Our mandate is to do so with honor and integrity, while at all times conducting ourselves with the highest ethical standards to promote public confidence in the police service.

As Chief of Police, I am honored to not only serve the City of Gardendale, but also the dedicated members of the Gardendale Police Department who care about the city they live in and serve in. Whether you are a resident or a visitor from out of town, you are a member of our community. We are most effective at working in partnership with our community to employ problem-solving strategies to address crime, safety, and quality of life issues through fairness, transparency, and impartiality.

The highly skilled members of this department understand the challenges of modern policing and will work tirelessly to serve this community. While the police department’s primary responsibility is reducing crime, it’s just as important to establish positive relationships with our community and businesses. Our department is committed to providing the highest quality in public safety and professional policing services and ensuring a safe place to live and shop. We are dedicated to the values of Courtesy, Professionalism, and Dedication, and to maintaining public safety for our residents, businesses and visitors.

Scott Banks

Chief of Police

Gardendale Police Department

1309 Decatur Hwy., Gardendale Alabama, 35071 (205)631-5722 | (205) 631-1711 Fax

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Cover: Rockets prepare for new football season

In Pictures: Gardendale goes all out for America’s 250th

Carrying the Torch: Tabernacle football, cheer look to season

8/ 28/ 32/ 30/ 22/ 12/ 26/ 34/ / Table of Contents /

Business News: Greg Hughes retires from Park and Rec after more than three decades

Shortcut Recipe: Hot Ham and Cheese Crescent Squares

Home Improvement: Paying for Remodels and Repairs

Employee Profile: Sgt. Jimmy Unangst

School News: See what’s happening in our schools.

It’s funny how a game can bring an entire community together. By the time August rolls around, the conversations change. Everyone wants to know how the Rockets are looking this year, who’s stepping into new roles and just how long it is until that first Friday night kickoff.

I’ve always believed Friday nights are about so much more than football. They’re about community. They’re about seeing people you haven’t run into in months, cheering for kids you’ve watched grow up and realizing that, for a couple of hours, none of the other stuff matters nearly as much.

In this issue of Gardendale Magazine, we’re looking ahead to football season with previews of the Gardendale Rockets and Tabernacle Torches. The two programs may look very different, but they share something important: young people who have spent their summer working, practicing and preparing for the opportunity to represent their schools and communities this fall.

The sense of community is carried over from a summer spent celebrating the 250th birthday of our country. This

year marks America’s 250th birthday, and the city celebrated in a big way with Let Freedom Ring at Bill Noble Park. Our photo spread captures just a small part of a day filled with families, friends, music and fireworks—and a community coming together to celebrate the place we call home while honoring the country we are fortunate enough to call ours.

I think that’s one of my favorite things about putting together this magazine. We get to document the big moments, but we also get to tell the stories behind them. The games under the Friday night lights, the celebrations that fill the park and the people who make this community what it is.

I hope you enjoy this issue, and I hope I’ll see you somewhere around Gardendale this fall—probably with a camera or notebook in my hand and almost certainly running late.

Rachel Davis Karr Content Director

Who We Are

Gardendale Magazine is published monthly by JBMC Media, a Birmingham-based publishing company. The magazine is available at more than 100 locations throughout Gardendale, free of charge, and is supported by the advertisers within the pages of this magazine. Subscriptions by mail area also available for $40 per year. Visit jbmcmedia.com/magazinesubscriptions to start your subscription.

Gardendale Magazine is 100% local; the stories and photos are all about the city of Gardendale, its residents, its businesses, its schools, and its cultural institutions. It’s our promise to you that we will always keep it this way, so that the content and stories are relevant to everyone who calls Gardendale home.

Staff

Matthew Allen, Publisher matthew@jbmcmedia.com

Rachel Davis Karr, Content Director (205) 613-7850 | rachel@jbmcmedia.com

Michelle Salem Haynes, Media Sales Consultant (205) 381-1311 | michelle@jbmcmedia.com

Kevin Lester, Media Sales Consultant (646) 956-6388 | kevin@jbmcmedia.com

Hollie Brown

Community Events Editor | hollie@jbmcmedia.com

Anthony Bratina, Cover Designer

Shweta Bratina, Graphic Designer

Emily VanderMey Listo, Project Manager & Graphic Designer | emily@emilylisto.com

About the Cover

P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham, AL 35260

Rockets: Experience Meets Opportunity

STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

After a year of learning on the fly, Gardendale head coach Eric Firestone believes the Rockets are finally ready to take the next step.

Entering his second season as head coach (and his ninth with the program), Firestone says the difference isn’t just experience on the field. It’s experience throughout the program.

“You don’t know until you know,” Firestone said with a laugh. “Even though I’d already been in the building, there were things you just don’t realize until you’re sitting in that chair.”

Last season brought constant adjustments. Coordinators arrived late in the spring, systems were still being built and much of the foundation was created in real time. This offseason has been dramatically different.

“We’ve got systems in place that we didn’t have before,” he said. “Our coordinators have been here, our terminology hasn’t completely changed, and a lot of the things that took hours to create last year are already there. Now it’s about improving instead of starting from scratch.”

That stability could pay dividends for a team that was far younger than most people realized.

Growing Up Fast

While Gardendale’s senior class numbers only around a dozen players, Firestone isn’t concerned. The Rockets may still be young, but they are no longer inexperienced.

Last season, an astonishing 30 players made their first varsity start.

“When you have 30 kids getting their first start, you’re going to have some growing pains,” Firestone said.

This year, many of those same players return with valuable Friday night experience.

Quarterback Ridge Wiggins enters his junior season after starting seven games a year ago. The offensive and defensive lines both return experienced starters, while several receivers are now multiple-year contributors.

“Having a quarterback back who knows the system inside and out is a huge advantage compared to where we were this time last year,” Firestone said.

Even more encouraging is what’s coming behind them.

Gardendale’s sophomore and freshman classes are among the largest in recent years, with several underclassmen expected to make immediate contributions.

“I don’t like having to play a lot of freshmen,” Firestone admitted, “but we’ve got some pretty talented ones coming.”

Built Around Leadership

If there’s one player who embodies the culture Firestone wants, it’s Jacksonville State commit Jude Wright.

The senior center serves as team captain and, according to his coach, sets the tone every day.

“He’s the heartbeat of our team,” Firestone said. “He’s selfless, he’s our hardest worker and we go as Jude goes.”

That leadership has become contagious.

“Our leaders are our hardest workers,” Firestone said. “When your best players work the hardest, it sets the standard for everybody else.”

It’s a noticeable shift from last season, when many young

players were still learning how to lead.

Firestone says leadership is now something the coaching staff intentionally develops rather than simply expecting it to happen naturally.

Players to Watch

The Rockets return plenty of familiar faces who could make an impact this fall.

Wiggins continues to develop into the leader of the offense after dedicating countless extra hours working with his receivers outside of practice.

Wide receiver Camaree Gooden brings explosive playmaking ability after spending much of the past two seasons helping the defense. This year, he’ll continue to play both ways but is expected to become a focal point of the offense.

Junior offensive lineman Jayden Maddox returns after earning significant starting experience last season, while Trae Crumb provides another experienced target at receiver.

Sophomore Brooks Beasley, who played in every game as a freshman, has impressed throughout the offseason and emerged as one of the team’s most productive pass catchers during summer workouts.

Defensively, Chauncey Goodwin anchors the interior after seeing varsity action as a freshman before becoming a starter last year. Wayne Brown is expected to step into a full-time starting role, while safety Mark Moody has emerged as one of the leaders of the defense following an impressive offseason.

Gardendale also welcomes transfer Cedric Wilson, who is expected to contribute at cornerback and could also see time at receiver.

Special teams remain in good hands with kicker Logan Stewart, whose strong leg gives the Rockets confidence whenever they cross midfield.

Learning to Finish

While last year’s record wasn’t what Gardendale hoped for, Firestone believes it doesn’t tell the whole story.

SCHEDULE

8/21 vs St. Clair County

8/28 @ Chelsea

9/4 vs Jackson-Olin

9/11 vs Jasper

9/18 @ Mortimer Jordan

9/25 @ Calera

10/2 @ Minor

10/9 vs Cullman

10/16 vs Huffman

10/22 @ Parker

The Rockets held leads in six games before struggling to finish late.

Now, that’s become the team’s biggest emphasis.

“We want to finish games,” Firestone said. “When it gets to the fourth quarter, we’ve got to be able to finish.”

Rather than focusing on win totals or postseason predictions, Firestone keeps the message simple.

“We want to go 1-0 every week.”

If the Rockets accomplish that goal often enough, he believes everything else— including a return to the playoffs—will take care of itself.

A Different Look

Firestone expects fans to notice something immediately when Gardendale takes the field this fall.

The Rockets simply look different.

“Our team speed is up,” he said. “Last year somebody mentioned we looked like a JV team because we were so young. Now we’re starting to look like we’re supposed to.”

That added maturity should translate into a more explosive offense and a defense capable of turning close losses into close victories.

Just as important, Firestone believes the chemistry inside the locker room is stronger than ever.

“They’re close. They’re fun to be around. They work hard,” he said.

And when the Rockets take the field Friday nights, they’ll once again have one advantage that never seems to change.

Gardendale fans travel.

Whether at home or on the road, Rocket supporters consistently fill the stands, often outnumbering the home crowd in road games.

“This community loves the Rockets,” Firestone said. “Our fans show up, and our kids feed off that.”

After a season spent building the foundation, Gardendale enters 2026 with something it didn’t have a year ago—experience, continuity and belief.

For Firestone and the Rockets, that combination could make all the difference.

Let Freedom Ring

Gardendale celebrates 250 years of America

PHOTOS BY GARY SCHULTZ

Just before July 4th, the City of Gardendale, Bill Noble Park and a number of community sponsors hosted a patriotic night of celebration and unity at the Park. The event honored veterans, the country and notable moments in history, culminating in a fireworks display that lit up the night around Bill Noble Park.

Safety at Every Step: Tips from Gardendale's Crossing Guards

Crossing Guards ensure the safety of children and other pedestrians as they cross the street before and after school. Crossing Guards check for oncoming traffic, step into the road, and direct vehicles to come to a stop before instructing people to cross.

Parents

Things the Gardendale Crossing Guards Want You to Know as You Drop Off or Pick Up Your Students

•Always follow the hand directions of the Crossing Guard when dropping off or picking up your student at their school.

• Allow your student to exit your vehicle only at the direction of the Crossing Guards.

• Please do not pick up your student on the side of the road for their safety and the safety of others.

•Always watch students that are walking after school as they cross at the crosswalks because they are not watching for you.

• Stay off your cell phones during drop off and pick up of your student.

• Drive slowly through the School zones during the drop off and pick up times each day school is in session.

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Saturday, August 29 -- 7am-noon (many items discounted 50%)

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ALL PROFITS SUPPORT MISSIONS

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We are here in your neighborhood at Pediatrics West - Hueytown. Call 205-481-1886 to schedule an appointment. Learn more at ChildrensAL.org

Tabernacle Ready for Another Season of Friday Night Tradition

STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

As another football season approaches, excitement is building around Tabernacle as players, coaches and cheerleaders prepare for another year under the lights. While the Torches’ 8-man football roster is still being finalized, anticipation continues to grow for what promises to be another competitive season built on hard work, determination and school pride.

Eight-man football has become a unique and exciting part of Tabernacle’s athletic identity, showcasing speed, versatility and wide-open play. With preseason workouts underway, the coaching staff is continuing to evaluate athletes before finalizing this fall’s roster.

On the sidelines, however, one thing is already certain— the 2026 cheer squad is ready to make an impact.

Head Coach Faith Adams says this year’s group has already impressed the coaching staff with its work ethic and commitment.

“We are so excited to have such a wonderful group of ladies this season! This summer they have already showed us how determined, hardworking and skilled this group is! We cannot wait to show our school and community all the new and exciting things we brought to our squad this year!” Adams said.

Leading the varsity squad this season are Evy Roberts, Savannah Motes, Carly Hollis, McKinley Buch, Emilyann Miller and Anna Tucker.

Representing the junior varsity team are Bella Miller, Charlie Ennis, Hannah McBrayer, Addi Gilliam, Bella Brady, Kate James and Kylie Hollis.

Adding an extra element of entertainment to Friday nights is Rae Thompson, who serves as both the JV and varsity feature twirler.

The cheer program is led by Head Coach Faith Adams with assistant coaches Cheryl Hollis, Kelly James and Tracy Motes. Together, the coaching staff has focused on developing new routines, sharpening skills and building team chemistry throughout the summer.

Whether they’re leading the crowd in spirited cheers, performing halftime routines or supporting the Torches from kickoff to the final whistle, the cheerleaders are eager to bring fresh energy and enthusiasm to every game.

As the football roster comes together and the season draws closer, Tabernacle fans can look forward to another fall filled with exciting 8-man football, spirited performances and a community united behind its Torches.

SCHEDULE 2026 VARSITY

Total Dermatology taking appointments in Gardendale

Total Dermatology will be taking appointments in Gardendale on the second Saturday of every month from 7:30-11:00 a.m. Their office is located at 931 Sharit Avenue, Suite 201, and they can be reached at (205) 933-0987.

Southern Energy Credit Union Breaks Ground on New Gardendale Branch

Southern Energy Credit Union recently broke ground on its new Gardendale branch, located off Mt. Olive Road, marking a significant investment in the organization’s continued growth and a commitment to serving members throughout northern Jefferson County.

Credit Union executives, City of Gardendale officials, Sykes Weaver General Contractors, and members of the Southern Energy Board gathered to celebrate the expansion during a groundbreaking ceremony.

Stan Hogeland, Mayor of the City of Gardendale, attended the event and said, “I’m grateful for Southern Energy and the relationship we’ve built over the years, and I’m excited to see this new branch take shape.” Hogeland added a personal story, “I mentioned this event to a friend, and he immediately said, ‘That’s my bank.’ That kind of pride says a lot and speaks to the heart of this organization and the connection it has with its members and our community. Today is a great day as we celebrate another business breaking ground and investing in the City of Gardendale.”

The site, acquired in late 2025, will be home to a new full-service branch designed to better serve members with expanded space, modern amenities including a drive through, and capacity for future growth. The new location will replace the Credit Union’s current Gardendale branch, continuing its established presence in the community since opening its Main Street location in 2021.

“We’re honored to continue growing with the Gardendale community,” said Andy Rush, President and CEO of Southern Energy. “This new standalone branch reflects our commitment to serving our members with greater convenience and remaining a trusted financial partner in a community that continues to grow and thrive.”

Sykes Weaver General Contractors, a full-service firm providing comprehensive pre-construction and construction services across multiple industries, will lead the project. “Sykes Weaver is honored to partner once again with Southern Energy on this exciting new chapter,” said Hasting Sykes, Founder and Principal of Sykes Weaver General Contractors. Sykes continued, “Over the past 17 years, I’ve had the privilege of working on more than 20 projects with the

Credit Union, including its Main Office, building not only facilities but lasting relationships grounded in trust. We’re proud to continue that legacy with this new branch and look forward to delivering a space that will support the Credit Union’s commitment to service for years to come.”

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with plans for a grand opening celebration to follow.

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Hot Ham and Cheese Crescent Squares

When back-to-school season hits and the days get busy, my Hot Ham and Cheese Crescent Squares (also called Crescent Roll Ham and Cheese Bake) are about to become your new secret weapon. Made with two cans of refrigerated crescent roll dough and about 10 minutes of prep, these buttery, golden squares are layered with melty Swiss cheese and savory deli ham, perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or a quick weeknight dinner the whole family will love.

INGREDIENTS

2 (8 ounce) cans crescent roll dough (or crescent roll dough sheets)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

12 slices Swiss cheese or Mozzarella or provolone, divided

8 ounces deli ham or other deli meat slices (about 6 to 8 slices)

2 tablespoons melted butter

⅛ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)

In The Kitchen with Kathleen Phillips

Kathleen Phillips is a food blogger, food stylist, cookbook author, and former Oxmoor House test kitchen director (Southern Living cookbooks). On her food blog, GritsAndGouda.com, she creates Southern shortcut recipes. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. Food Blogger, GritsAndGouda.com

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 375F°. Lightly coat a 12x8 baking dish or 2 ½ quart rectangle baking dish with nonstick spray.

Remove the crescent roll dough from one can and press it into the bottom of the dish. Spread the Dijon mustard on top of the dough.

Arrange 6 slices of the cheese on the dough, cutting the cheese as necessary to fit.

Arrange the ham or deli meat on the cheese, overlapping as necessary to fit in the dish. Arrange the remaining cheese slices on the ham, overlapping as necessary.

Remove the crescent roll dough from the second can. Spread it out on a cutting board or a clean counter and smooth out the edges to about the same size as your dish.

Carefully place it on top of the cheese. Press the edges to the sides of the dish together with the bottom dough.

Combine the melted butter, garlic powder, (and if using) the Italian seasoning. Brush the tops of the dough with this butter mixture.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 5 minutes before cutting.

For breakfast, brunch or brinner servings, cut into 8 servings. For parties, showers, or finger food potlucks, cut into little squares for appetizer servings.

Home Improvement with Matt Weber

Matt Weber is editor of Home Improvement & Repairs magazine based in Birmingham, Alabama. Find more at www.homeimprovementandrepairs.com.

Paying for Remodels and Repairs

Remodeling a home can be expensive. Even a thrifty do-it-yourselfer who owns tools and has homeimprovement experience can run up a hefty bill in materials and supplies. Repairing a home can also be expensive, but making repairs should take priority over optional remodels, because damage to a house tends to exacerbate when left unaddressed. Whether you’re undertaking a remodel or a repair, costs can accrue quickly, but you have a few options to manage them.

Emergency Fund

It is wise for homeowners to establish an emergency fund to help offset the unforeseen cost of surprise repairs. As many Alabama homeowners are aware, addressing certain common emergencies simply cannot be delayed. Common culprits include a backedup septic system stinking up the neighborhood or

damage from severe storms.

Insurance Coverage

When it comes to severe weather damage, one way to prepare is to review your homeowner’s insurance to decide if your coverage should be adjusted. This includes considering add-ons for certain types of weather damage you may not have anticipated when you first bought your home.

Cash is King

Saving money for optional remodels is not always feasible, but the more you save in advance, the more money you save in the end. When you pay directly from checking or savings, you accrue no interest, no debt, and maintain full control of the budget.

Contractor / Manufacturer Financing

Many professional remodeling contractors (especially for kitchens, baths, windows and roofing) partner with lenders and/ or manufacturers, so they can offer discounts, deferred interest or low-rate promotions. However, you should always read the fine print, because rates can skyrocket after the promotional period.

Credit Cards

Although credit cards may seem quick, easy and convenient, people can get into a lot of trouble using them. Zero-percent introductory APR on cards can appear attractive, and some homeowners expect to pay off the balance quickly. However, if that $5,000 to $10,000 project remains on the balance sheet after the promo period, the interest rate can become 15 to 25 percent, and then debt can balloon fast. Know the risks.

Personal Loans

Homeowners often have the option of securing a personal bank loan. A bank, credit union, or online lender may offer loans of $5,000–$50,000+ with terms of 2 to 7 years. The rates are fixed, and no collateral is required. These loans typically have higher interest rates than home-secured loans (usually 7 to 20+ percent, depending on credit).

Home-secured Loans

Using the value of your home to secure credit may present options. A home equity loan (second mortgage) is a lump-sum loan based on your home’s equity with a fixed interest rate and fixed monthly payments. A home equity loan typically offers lower rates than personal loans (often 7 to 10 percent), and the interest may be tax-deductible if used for home improvements.

A HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) is a revolving credit line you draw from as needed (like a credit card but secured by your home). It comes with variable rates, often with a draw period (5–10 years) followed by repayment.

A cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage with a new, larger one, and you take the difference in cash. This can achieve a potentially lower overall rate. A cash-out refinance resets your mortgage term and entails closing costs of 2 to 5 percent of the loan, so this only makes sense if rates are favorable.

If you are considering taking a large loan for a major home project, always do plenty of research and consult a knowledgeable financial professional. Financing partners may be able to use alternative credit models to assess applicants with non-traditional credit histories,

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City Employee Spotlight

JIMMY UNANGST SERGEANT, GARDENDALE POLICE DEPARTMENT

STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

Gardendale Police Department’s Sgt. Jimmy Unangst knows the first question everyone reading this will have.

“It’s pronounced UNIX,” he said with a laugh.

The meaning behind it is even more fitting. In German, Unangst means “no fear.” In Dutch, it means “unafraid.”

“In English,” he joked, “it means no better sense than to do this for a living for 25 years.”

The humor comes naturally, but so does the dedication.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GARDENDALE POLICE DEPARTMENT

After more than two decades in law enforcement, Unangst has served in nearly every corner of the profession—from patrol officer and K-9 handler to financial crimes investigator and now administrative sergeant. But one of the most meaningful parts of his career wasn’t a promotion or an award.

“Gardendale was where I grew up,” he said. “It was a chance to come home.”

A 1992 graduate of Gardendale High School, Unangst first worked in the private sector before an unexpected opportunity changed the course of his career. When the company he worked for was sold in 2003, he could pursue law enforcement full time. After joining the Mountain Brook Police Department in 2004, he came home to the Gardendale Police Department the following year.

Since then, his career has included five years as a K-9 officer, service as a field training officer and an assignment in investigations with a focus on financial crimes.

One investigation that started with a shoplifting case eventually grew into one of the largest multi-agency operations in Jefferson County history. Working alongside local, state and federal agencies, the investigation resulted in simultaneous search warrants across the county and the execution of 256 felony warrants in a single day. For his work on the case, Unangst received recognition from both the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office and the FBI.

Today, he serves as the department’s administrative sergeant, overseeing the property and evidence room while assisting with administrative operations and search warrants.

Away from the office, life revolves around family.

With a 16-year-old son and a 12-year-old daughter, Unangst said that he’s still spending much of his free time driving to fishing tournaments, track meets and volleyball games. A lifelong bass fisherman, he now enjoys serving as boat captain for his son’s fishing team more than competing himself.

When time allows, he also enjoys woodworking, a hobby passed down from his father.

GHS Pickleball named 2nd in

state DUPR

The GHS Pickleball Club competed in the DUPR High School State Competition in May and placed 2nd in the High School Division. The GHS Pickleball Club members that placed 2nd were: Grayson Brown, Nolan Wilson and Cooper Caufield. Mrs. Carney is the GHS Pickleball Club Sponsor. Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the U.S. The GHS Pickleball Club is looking forward to the upcoming school year with a year round tournament series for students.

GHS Students compete at Girls and Boys State

Alabama Boys and Girls State gave Gardendale High School students a hands-on opportunity to learn about civic engagement and the role of local and state government as they move into their senior year. Several of students were elected to positions while they were in Tuscaloosa:

• Antawn Cook - Probate Judge of Odum County

• Baden Morton - Police Chief of Odum County

• Tamia Williams - Councilwoman for City of St. Stephens

• Presley Ragland - Treasurer/Secretary of the Nationalist Party

GHS Students named to All-State Softball

Gardendale High School had two softball players named to All-State.

• Alexis Piersol- 1st team All-State

• Charlie Chiasson- 2nd team All-State Honorable Mention

GHS Band students commit to colleges

Twelve senior band students signed commitments for colleges.

Gardendale Chamber donates snacks for Bragg Cheer

The Gardendale Chamber of Commerce recently donated snacks for the Bragg Cheerleading Squad. These girls represent Gardendale with spirit, hard work and pride every time they hit the mat.

GHS Student wins at FCCLA Nationals again

Piper Rogers scored a Gold Level award at Family, Career and Community Leaders of America Nationals for Fashion Construction. This is the second year she has earned this honor.

Headley commits to Miles College

Brayden Headley recently committed to further his academic and athletic career at Miles College.

Kimberly Senior Center

The seniors from Kimberly Senior Center had a great time visiting the Grand Ole Opry show last weekend at Wallace State!

Local roads included in county paving project

Two local roadways are included in the Jefferson County Commission’s $5.1 million paving projects in 2026. Here is a look at those projects that will start this summer and are planned to be completed by next summer.

• Warrior Kimberly Road will be resurfaced from Stouts Road to Louisa Street and is approximately 3.6 miles in length. Jefferson County is allocating $1,575,000 to resurface Warrior Kimberly Road.

• Bone Dry Road will be resurfaced from Bill Jones Road to 2nd St N and is approximately 2.5 miles in length. Jefferson County is allocating $1,050,000 to resurface Bone Dry Road.

Fultondale Senior Center 4th of July

Fultondale Senior Center hosted a pre-Fourth of July picnic that included hotdogs with all the trimmings, macaroni, salad, potato chips, cantaloupe, watermelon and ice-cream cake, and Keylime pie for dessert.

Warrior Public Library Summer Reading Program

The Warrior Public Library Summer Reading Program featured events each week, like Found Space Theatre, Ms. Jan the Science Lady and Dynamic Education Adventures and Michelle’s Magical Poodles.

Kimberly Police Student Ride Along

Kimberly Police Department allowed upcoming North Jefferson Middle School student Nick Robles to take a student ride-along. His future plans include joining the military, his current favorites are the movie GI Joe and cookies and cream ice cream. He also got a tour of the fire station.

COMING EVENTS

North Jefferson Chamber of Commerce Luncheon

NJ Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheons on August 6, September 3, October 1, November 5 and December 3, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Fultondale Event Center.

Fultondale Founders Day

Fultondale Founders Day will be August 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Black Creek Park. The event is free and will feature vendors, entertainment and fun for the whole family.

North Jefferson Republican Patriots

The North Jefferson Republican Patriots will meet August 20, 6:30-8 p.m. at the Gardendale Civic Center.

Kimberly Founders Day

Kimberly Founders Day will be September 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kimberly Truck Stop.

Warrior Day

Warrior Day will be October 17, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Main Street in Warrior.

Mt Olive Community Center Dance

The Mt. Olive Community Center recently hosted a line dancing night that attracted individuals from all over, including one couple celebrating their 64th wedding anniversary.

Kimberly Fire visited SOAR at Bryan Elementary

The Kimberly Fire Department visited Bryan Elementary SOAR students at Bryan Elementary School to help beat the Alabama heat.

Fultondale FBLA attends NATIONALS

Fultondale High School attended the FBLA State conference in April and came home with two State Champions and four Nationals qualifiers. This summer, three of these Qualifiers: Trinity Rodgers, Cameron Moore and Amir Howard went on to compete on the national FBLA stage in San Antonio, Texas. Students from each state, territory and even Canada attended this event.

Gardendale Library fun for all ages summer

The Gardendale Public Library has a variety of activities for all ages this summer.

Gardendale Civitan Club donates proceeds of onion sale

The Gardendale Civitan Club recently hosted its Vidalia onion fundraiser. Those funds went to give three students a scholarship toward college through the Down Syndrome Alabama.

North Jefferson Rotary Club Announces New Board, Presidents

The North Jefferson Rotary Club recently introduced its incoming Board of Directors, featuring dedicated leaders who personify the principles of service and leadership. Driven by a collaborative spirit, the Board is composed of members passionate about advancing the club’s mission. Led by Co-Presidents Richard Bradley and Carol Stewart, the Board will include George Weeks, Bobbie Campbell, Jane Houchins, Mark Barber, Lee Weinman, and Justin Parrish.

Anderson hired at Civic Center

Anderson hired in Park and Recreation

Caufield hired as police officer

Florence hired as firefighter

Noble Classic

The 3rd Annual Noble Classic will take place at Bill Noble Park August 1-2, bringing together competitive 12U and 14U softball teams from across the region for a weekend of play. Featuring top feeder school programs from communities including Hartselle, Helena, Gardendale, and Pell City, the tournament will highlight school pride, strong competition, and youth athletic development. For more information contact Brandon Gooch at (205) 965-8582

National Night Out

A night to honor the first responders and our community heroes that serve and protect us each and everyday. A free community event full of fun, connection, and local pride. Inflatables, music, water wars & more at Bill Noble Park on August 4, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Gardendale Chamber of Commerce Monthly Luncheons

The Gardendale Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly luncheons:

• August 13, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gardendale Civic Center. The theme is “Overcoming Adversity in Business,” with Nicole Allshouse.

• September 10, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gardendale Civic Center. The theme is “Gardendale’s Economic Explosion” with Jefferson County Commissioner Joe Knight.

Gardendale Youth Baseball

Registration is open for the fall baseball season at Bill Noble Park for children ages 3–14. Practices will begin Aug. 23, with games tentatively starting Sept. 14 and continuing through Oct. 25. The season will include six games played on Sundays, with weekday practices scheduled by age division. Gardendale residency is not required to participate. Register at billnoblepark.recdesk.com or if in-person, you may go by the Gardendale Park and Recreation building Monday through Friday anytime from 8 a.m. - to 4 p.m.

Gardendale Farmers Market

The Gardendale Farmer’s Market is every Thursday through September at Bill Noble Park. Enjoy fresh produce, local vendors, hometown favorites and community. The market will be open each Thursday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

North Jefferson Republican Patriots

The North Jefferson Republican Patriots will meet August 20, 6:30 - 8 p.m. at the Gardendale Civic Center.

Medical Mile Health Fair

The annual Medical Mile Health Fair will be held September 24, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Gardendale Civic Center. The health fair will feature information from medical providers around the city, free screenings and demonstrations and there will be giveaways throughout the day.

Golden Eagles

The Gardendale Golden Eagles meet on the second Friday of the month at the Gardendale Senior Center beginning at 12:15 pm and ending at 1:30 pm. The group is open to anyone 55 or older and features lunch speakers and fun day trips.

Library Food Pantry

Our library food pantry always need the following items: hearty soups/stews/chili, varieties of canned chicken/tuna/ham, singlesized and normal cereal, granola type bars, fruit cups, peanut butter, jelly, oatmeal/grits packets, pasta and Alfredo and other sauces and any toiletries. We take food only if it is not outdated and not opened.

Stock Little Free Library

Help us stock our Little Free Library! We are in need of children’s and young adult books in good to perfect condition to stock our Little Free Library (LFL) located by the soccer fields off of Fieldstown Road. Donations can be placed directly in the LFL or you can bring them to the front desk at the library.

Historical Museum Hours

The Kermit E. Dooley Gardendale Historical Museum (170 Bell Street) will be open to the public every Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The museum is maintained and operated by the Gardendale Historical Society.

MyGardendale

For a complete list of events and happenings, visit MyGardendale. com to see an interactive calendar.

To have an item added to our calendar, please send information to rachel@jbmcmedia.com.