Gardendale Magazine - July 2026

Jim Parola reflects on 18 years at the Gardendale Farmers Market PAGE 8 FINDING LOVE AFTER FIFTY

Local author writes fiction novel PAGE 16

IN PICTURES:

New fire trucks dedicated with “push in” ceremony PAGE 24

Parks and Recreation

Under the direction of Parks and Recreation Superintendent Dale Hyche, our Parks and Recreation employees strive to provide the citizens of Gardendale with the very best in recreational and athletics facilities.

We would like to invite you to come visit and take advantage of all these amenities our recreational and athletics facilities have to offer. We welcome suggestions in making our parks and our department the very best they can be.

Bill Noble Park

Cover: Jim Parola retires after 18 years at Gardendale Farmers

In Pictures: Gardendale Farmers Market offers something for everyone

Feature: Deb Mitchell Ensley uses real life inspiration for new book

8/ 24/ 30/ 28/ 16/ 12/ 20/ 32/ / Table of Contents /

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

In Pictures: New Fire Trucks dedicated in Push-in Ceremony

Shortcut Recipe: King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Home Improvement: What to do about cracks in the wall

Employee Profile: Chris Lorino, Park and Recreation

/ About Us / On The Cover

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 (205) 883-1877 | matthew@jbmcmedia.com

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

Michelle Salem Haynes, Marketing Consultant (205) 381-1311 | michelle@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

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@GardendaleMagazine @GardendaleMag Contact Us/Follow Us P.O. Box 26432, Birmingham, AL 35260 (205) 883-1877

This month’s cover story is especially meaningful to me because it highlights an event that has become one of my favorite traditions in Gardendale. For the past 11 years, I have had the privilege of covering the Gardendale Farmers Market.

Over the years, I’ve watched the market expand, welcome new vendors, navigate challenges and continually find ways to serve the community. Through all those changes, one constant has been the leadership of Jim Parola. His dedication, vision and enthusiasm have helped transform the market into one of Gardendale’s most anticipated seasonal events.

At the conclusion of this season, Jim will step away from his role as director of the farmers market. While I have no doubt that the outstanding staff at Bill Noble Park will continue to build on the market’s success, it will certainly feel different when the next market season arrives and I don’t find myself reaching out to Jim to talk about what’s new. His impact on this event—and on the community as a whole—will be felt for years to come, and we wish him the very best in this next chapter.

This issue also captures other moments that reflect both tradition and transition in our city. You’ll find photos from the farmers market as well

as images from the ceremonial “push-in” of Gardendale Fire and Rescue’s new fire trucks, a meaningful tradition that honors the department’s history while celebrating its future.

In addition, we share the story of Greg Hughes, who is retiring after more than three decades of service to the citizens of Gardendale. His commitment has helped shape countless experiences for families, athletes and visitors, and his legacy will remain part of our community for generations.

As I look around Gardendale, I see a city that continues to grow and evolve. Change can sometimes be bittersweet, especially when familiar faces move on from the roles they have filled so well. Yet change also brings opportunity for new leaders, fresh ideas and new relationships that will help shape the future of our community.

As we celebrate the contributions of those moving into new chapters, we also look forward to welcoming the next generation of community leaders. That balance between honoring the past and embracing the future is what makes Gardendale such a special place.

The Heart of the Market

STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

For nearly two decades, the Gardendale Farmers Market has been more than a place to buy tomatoes, honey or fresh flowers. It has been a gathering place, a ministry, a veterans outreach and, in many ways, a reflection of the community itself.

And for most of those years, one man has been at the center of it all.

At 84 years old, Jim Parola is stepping away after helping lead the market for 18 years and running it for the last 16. This season will be his final one. The decision wasn’t easy, but Parola’s wife Barbara faces ongoing health challenges, and he said it is time to devote himself to caring for her.

“I love doing this,” Parola said. “I like the people. But my

wife is more important.”

Still, walking away will not come easily.

“I’d hate to give it up,” he admitted. “I’m hoping they’ll still let me help in some way.”

That hope reflects the same quiet dedication that has defined the market since its earliest days.

Humble Beginnings

The market’s story began 18 years ago with a simple idea from a community member who approached then-church council president at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Rich Dender, about starting a local farmers market. Dender took the initiative, gathering private funding and organizing the effort.

At the same time, Parola and Dender were working together on a community garden beside the church. The partnership quickly grew into something larger.

“We became friends through the garden,” Parola said. “That’s how he got me incorporated into the farmers market.”

Together, they built one of the few fully equipped markets in the state, purchasing canopies and tables so vendors would not have to provide their own. A donated trailer — left unused after a church pastor returned from hurricane relief work in New Orleans — became the market’s transport vehicle.

The market moved several times over the years, from a Kmart parking lot to a church parking lot, then to the Civic Center grounds before eventually settling into its current location near the pavilion.

Each move came with challenges: insurance issues, heat,

storms, declining attendance and shrinking vendor participation. But the market survived every setback.

“There were times we thought it might disappear,” Parola said.

Instead, this season may be one of its strongest yet, with 15 vendors already committed and more expected to join.

More Than Produce

What makes the Gardendale Farmers Market unique is not just the produce, it is the sense of connection.

Over the years, the market expanded beyond vegetables to include local honey, candles, lemonade, sprouts, baked goods and handmade items. More importantly, it became a gathering place for longtime customers who return week after week.

Parola, an Air Force veteran himself, helped establish what

remains the only veterans booth connected to a farmers market in Alabama. Every year before the Fourth of July, the market hosted a special veterans appreciation event with free food provided through donations and support from the city.

“Veterans and the market kind of go hand in hand with Jim,” said Mayor Stan Hogeland. “Those are his passions.”

Hogeland credits Parola with keeping the market alive through difficult years and says his impact on the community cannot be overstated.

“He’s the face of the farmers market,” Hogeland said. “He’s been here from the start, and he deserves all the credit for keeping it going.”

The mayor said one of the city’s biggest priorities now is ensuring the market continues after Parola steps away.

“The biggest tragedy would be if, because Jim is no longer here, the farmers market went away,” Hogeland said. “But we’re not going to let that happen.”

A Life of Service

Parola’s path to Gardendale was anything but direct.

Born in Connecticut, he served in the United States Air Force before working in his family’s business. Over the years, he earned business and furniture design degrees, worked for Ashley Furniture, and lived in several states before ultimately settling in Gardendale in 2008 after his sister-in-law invited the family to Alabama.

“We’ve been here ever since, and we love it,” he said.

In addition to the market, Parola has remained deeply involved with Good Shepherd Lutheran Church as a lay minister, helping support church families and assisting during services.

But perhaps his greatest legacy is the community he helped build at the market itself.

Over the years, he watched the customer base

shift from mostly retirees to younger families. He formed lasting friendships with veterans and vendors. He weathered rainstorms, summer heat and seasons where participation nearly vanished.

Through it all, he stayed.

“It’s hard to believe we’ve been here almost 18 years, and there are still people who don’t know we’re here,” Parola said with a laugh.

A Day at the Market

PHOTOS BY HEATHER WARDEN, WARDEN PHOTOGRAPHY

The Gardendale Farmers Market is underway once again. The market will take place every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Bill Noble Park through September. In addition to the traditional local farmers and their produce offerings, there are vendors who sell lemonade, homemade earrings, baked goods, locally grown meats, microgreens and more.

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A Love Story After Fifty

STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

Deb Mitchell Ensley knows firsthand that love does not have an expiration date.

The local author’s new book, Finding Love Over Fifty: Sandy and Colin’s Story, grew from a simple but powerful idea: people later in life still deserve romance, companionship and the joy of being loved.

“I thought, if I can find it, anybody can,” Ensley said. “Just because you’re older doesn’t mean you don’t deserve somebody to be with you and love you.”

The novel is fiction, not a retelling of Ensley’s own marriage, but her personal experience helped inspire its heart. Years after first meeting her husband in psychology class at Jacksonville State, the two reconnected on Facebook decades later. Their relationship eventually became a second-chance love story of its own.

That theme runs through Sandy and Colin’s story. Sandy is a designer, Colin is a contractor, and together they work on restoring an old hotel with 1920s charm. Around that renovation, Ensley builds what she calls “a sweet love story” — one rooted in faith, real life and the belief that new beginnings can happen at any age.

“I wanted them both to be Christians,” she said. “It’s a good book. I wouldn’t be afraid for my preacher to see it.”

Ensley began writing the book the year after she married, then put it aside while caring for her mother.

// Continued on Page 18 //

// Continued from Page 16 //

She returned to the manuscript late last year and finished it, even while dealing with painful knee issues that left her bedridden for weeks.

“I got my book published lying down,” she said with a laugh. “Now I say, if I’m vertical, I’m good.”

At 151 pages, the book is a quick read, but Ensley hopes it leaves readers with something lasting. She wanted Sandy to feel like a real woman — not a runway model, but someone relatable, imperfect and still worthy of love.

The subtitle, Sandy and Colin’s Story, was intentional. Ensley plans for this to become a series, with future books telling other love stories.

She also has more projects in the works, including a children’s poetry book inspired by the silly poems she used to write for students, and she hopes to one day help publish a book written by her late mother.

For now, though, Ensley is enjoying the release of her first romance and dreaming big. Her publisher has even talked with her about the possibility of a screenplay.

“I would love for it to go to Hallmark,” she said.

Whether on the page or, one day, on the screen, Ensley hopes the message is the same: love can still surprise you.

“It’s never too late,” she said. “Everybody deserves that.”

The book is currently available on Amazon by searching Finding Love Over Fifty: Sandy and Colin’s Story Mitchell will also be holding a book signing at the Gardendale Library on Friday, August 7th at 10:30 a.m.

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Whether you’re buying, selling, or just have questions about the market, we’d love to connect and help in any way we can!

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From Parks to Pitmaster

Greg Hughes Retires After 33 Years of Service

STORY BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

After more than three decades serving the City of Gardendale, Greg Hughes officially retired at the end of May. But anyone who knows Hughes understands one thing: retirement doesn’t mean slowing down.

In fact, on the very day his retirement became official, Hughes was already fielding calls about upcoming catering jobs.

“I’ve always been a worker,” Hughes said with a laugh. “People ask what I’m going to do in retirement. Y’all know me better than that.”

For 33½ years, Hughes was a familiar face in Gardendale’s Parks and Recreation Department. His journey began in 1991 as a part-time employee while he was still a sophomore in high school. Back then, his responsibilities were simple: cutting grass, picking up trash and helping maintain city properties.

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“I was just a blue-collar worker,” Hughes said. “College wasn’t for me. I liked working.”

After graduating, he accepted a full-time position in 1994 and never looked back. Over the years, he worked under multiple city administrations, serving alongside former mayors and department leaders while helping maintain the parks and facilities that generations of Gardendale residents have enjoyed.

The work was never glamorous, but Hughes took pride in being dependable.

“Showing up every day and doing the job— that’s what I’ve always known,” he said.

That reputation followed him into retirement. Before his paperwork was even finalized, Hughes received a call from Brad Hodges, co-owner of Southern Market in Gardendale. As a longtime customer through his catering business, Hughes already had a relationship with the market.

“He told me, ‘Don’t take another job until we sit down and talk,’” Hughes recalled.

Within weeks of retiring from the city, Hughes was back to work, helping Southern Market with meat cutting, steak preparation and daily operations.

“Just having somebody with experience who will show up and work every day—that meant something to them,” Hughes said.

Yet even that isn’t his only venture.

Alongside his wife, Hughes owns and operates Comeback Barbecue, a catering business that grew from humble beginnings into one of the busiest chapters of their lives.

The business was born nearly a decade ago during a difficult season. After Hughes’ wife lost her longtime job when her company relocated operations to Mexico, the family found themselves searching for a new path forward.

“We were devastated,” Hughes said. “She had been there 25 years.”

It was Hughes’ mother who offered a simple suggestion.

“She told me, ‘You love to cook. Why don’t you start selling barbecue?’”

Armed with a small smoker in his driveway, Hughes began cooking barbecue on weekends. The response was immediate. Every Saturday, the food sold out.

What started as a side hustle gradually evolved into a legitimate catering operation. Today, Comeback Barbecue caters weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, birthday parties and community gatherings across north Jefferson County and beyond.

The business has grown so much that Hughes and his team routinely serve hundreds of guests at a single event.

“It’s rewarding when you can feed 300 people in 45 minutes and everybody leaves happy,” he said.

The company now averages at least one wedding every weekend, with December becoming one of its busiest seasons thanks to holiday parties and special events.

Looking ahead, Hughes is excited about the partnership between Comeback Barbecue and Southern Market. Customers will soon begin seeing ready-to-heat meals prepared by Hughes and his team available for purchase at the Gardendale store.

The concept is simple: provide busy families with homemade-style meals they can pick up on the way home from work.

“Maybe somebody wants meatloaf and mashed potatoes, but they don’t have time to cook,” Hughes explained. “We’re trying to make that easier.”

While many retirees dream of slowing down, Hughes seems perfectly content staying busy.

Between catering events, helping at Southern Market and spending time with family, his calendar remains as full as ever.

After more than three decades maintaining parks, serving residents and building relationships throughout the community, Hughes is entering retirement the same way he approached his career—with hard work, gratitude and a willingness to serve.

“The Lord has blessed us,” Hughes said. “We’ve been fortunate. I’ve worked with a lot of good people over the years, and that’s what I’ll remember most.”

For Greg Hughes, retirement isn’t an ending. It’s simply the beginning of the next chapter.

Trucks ‘Pushed’ into service

PHOTOS BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

City leaders, citizens and first responders gathered at Gardendale Fire and Rescue’s Station 3 on Tarrant Road. Engine 2 and Engine 3 replace older engines and will be stationed at Station 2 (on Fieldstown Road) and Station 3 (Tarrant Road), respectively. The fire service tradition of “pushing in” a new fire truck dates back to the era of horse-drawn fire “engines.” After returning from a call, firefighters would unhitch the horses and manually push the heavy equipment back into the station, since horses could not easily back it into place. While modern fire engines can easily reverse into the station, departments continue the ceremonial push-in as a way to honor their history, celebrate a new apparatus entering service and recognize the teamwork that defines the fire service.

Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Turnberry Park Rental

Homes in Gardendale

Turnberry Park held a ribbon-cutting celebration at Turnberry Park Rental Homes, a 155-home community located at 205 Cottage Path Circle. Turnberry Park is designed for residents who want the space and privacy of a home without the responsibilities of ownership, Turnberry Park offers a mix of detached cottage-style homes and townhomes with one-, two- and threebedroom floor plans. The community emphasizes connection, comfort and active living, including a swimming pool and sundeck, a 24-hour fitness center with yoga and spin studio, walking paths and a clubhouse with panoramic views.

Pet owners will find plenty to appreciate as well, with a leash-free dog park, pet spa, fenced yards and doggy doors available throughout the community.

Inside the homes, residents enjoy premium finishes such as quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, designer plank flooring, walk-in closets and smart-home technology including smart locks, doorbell cameras and fiber-optic internet access. Many residences also feature attached garages and private driveways.

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Shortcut King Ranch Chicken Casserole

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

This is my shortcut version of the popular King Ranch Chicken Casserole. You’ve probably seen it show up at potlucks in a 13x9 pan. My small batch version puts a quick spin on it. I use tortilla chips instead of soft corn tortillas, which means you can probably pull this together without a special trip to the store. It’s just right for a family of four to five without a week’s worth of leftovers.

(Side note: despite the name, this has nothing to do with King’s Ranch Children’s Home here in Alabama — it’s actually named after the famous King Ranch in Kingsville, Texas, one of the largest ranches in the world. Funny enough, the ranch has no known direct connection to the recipe — but the name stuck and here we are!)

INGREDIENTS

1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup

1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained (such as Rotel)

2 cups shredded or chopped rotisserie or any cooked chicken

3 cups tortilla chips

2 cups pre-shredded Mexican blend, Colby Jack, or Cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon chili seasoning mix (taco seasoning will also work)

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 350F degrees.

Stir together cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes and green chiles, and chili seasoning mix in a large bowl.

Coat a 9x9-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or grease with butter or oil.

Arrange half of the tortilla chips on the bottom of the casserole dish to cover the bottom of the dish. Gently press down to flatten but not finely crush.

Spoon or pour half of soup mixture over the chips.

Layer half of the chicken and half of the cheese on the soup mixture.

Repeat these layers with remaining chips, tomato mixture, chicken and cheese. Bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.

Home Improvement with Matt Weber

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

Cracks in The Walls

And What To Do Next

Foundation problems are common in Alabama, so homeowners should keep an eye on warning signs. Foundation problems usually develop gradually, often showing up first as small cracks in a wall, but problems that grow or persist should be handled before structural damage occurs.

At the root of most foundation problems is movement in the soil beneath or around the home, often caused by poor drainage, moisture changes, or expansive soils that swell and shrink. As the soil shifts, the foundation moves too, placing stress on the structure.

Hairline Cracks

Small cracks in the walls may be caused by the house settling into its foundation. Slight shifts can lead to minor cracks in the drywall or plaster, which can be annoying but are typically cosmetic and not structural. Such cracks can also occur because seasonal temperature variations cause building materials to expand and contract. Changes in humidity levels can cause drywall or plaster to contract or expand.

Monitor hairline cracks weekly for growth, but these can usually be repaired with vinyl spackling or drywall compound.

Vertical Cracks

Wall cracks might travel straight up and down, following the line where the wall meets the floor, and vary in size. Caused by settling and temperature changes, these cracks generally pose minimal concern if there are no significant length or width increases. Vertical cracks need to be assessed once they are greater than 5 millimeters wide. If you detect dampness or widening cracks, then schedule a professional inspection.

Horizontal Cracks

If you see cracks running horizontal along the wall plane, this might be a sign of serious foundation issues and potential structural wall cracks. These cracks are often the result of structural movement as expansive soils build up against the foundation wall. Without proper care, the cracks will progressively widen, potentially causing complete wall failure.

Call a professional if horizontal cracks develop, regardless of width. Horizontal cracks signify movement or pressure on the foundation walls, so early detection is critical.

Diagonal Cracks

Some cracks might run diagonally on the wall between the floor and ceiling, slanted at a 45-degree angle. These cracks require immediate attention from a professional regardless of size. Diagonal cracks may indicate shifting or settling in the foundation. Stair-step cracks in brick, in particular, are often a sign of differential movement.

Early intervention is key, since diagonal cracks are a sign of foundation settlement, often the result of the earth pushing on a concrete basement wall.

When to Worry

Inspect your foundation a few times each year for wall cracks. The size and location of the cracks are key indicators of problems. Large cracks wider than 5 millimeters are a cause for concern, especially if they are diagonal, horizontal, or appear above a door frame.

Multiple cracks clustered together in a specific area also call for attention. A cluster of cracks could indicate a widespread problem that requires a professional evaluation to determine the cause and best course of action.

By addressing cracks promptly, you can help prevent foundation damage from worsening and safeguard the structural integrity of your home. When in doubt, consult a foundation specialist or structural engineer for a professional assessment.

City Employee Spotlight

CHRIS LORINO, PARK MAINTENANCE SUPERINTENDENT GARDENDALE PARK AND RECREATION

STORY AND PHOTO BY RACHEL DAVIS KARR

For nearly 31 years, Chris Lorino has helped shape the parks, fields, playgrounds and green spaces that generations of Gardendale families have enjoyed.

Lorino started as a landscaper for the city and has risen to his current position as Park Maintenance Superintendent for Gardendale Parks and Recreation. Lorino has watched the city grow from a modest recreation complex with a handful of fields into the expansive park system residents know today. When he began working for the city in August 1995, the park looked much different than it does today.

“I remember when this park [Bill Noble] was basically just the ball fields and football field,” he recalled. “There was a kiddie park here, and our old shop was actually where the youth football field is now.”

Though he never imagined he would spend more than three decades with the city, Lorino says the years have passed quickly.

“Twenty-five years went by fast,” he said. “The last five have gone by fast, too. It’s been a really good career. I’ve met a lot of people, seen a lot of change, and it’s been rewarding.”

Despite the changes in facilities, his favorite part of the job hasn’t changed.

“I love interacting with people,” he said. “And seeing projects come together. When we built the soccer fields, that was really rewarding. And then building the splash pad and seeing everybody enjoy it. Just seeing people enjoy what we’ve been able to do has been the most rewarding.”

For Lorino, the work has always been about more than mowing grass or maintaining facilities. It is about creating places where families gather, children play and memories are made. That sense of purpose is one reason he has remained with the department for so long. Another is the family atmosphere that permeates the Park and Recreation Department and the city as a whole. Lorino credits much of his longevity to the people he works alongside.

“We have good guys,” he said. “It takes everybody to get it done.”

He describes the Parks and Recreation Department as a family, built through years of working side-byside and supporting one another.

“We’re around each other more than we are our families,” he said. “You get to know everybody, their families, their kids. We are family.”

That camaraderie has become a hallmark of the department, where many employees have spent decades building careers. Lorino encourages younger workers to stick with it.

“I tell them all the time, if you can stay with it, do it,” he said. “It goes by fast, and you can make a career out of it.”

Even when he clocks out, Lorino rarely slows down. An avid golfer, he also enjoys fishing whenever he gets the opportunity. He also enjoys yard work.

“I know I get enough of it at work,” he laughed, “but I really do enjoy it.”

Family also occupies much of his time. He and his wife will celebrate 32 years of marriage this year, and their daughter is preparing for an October wedding. They also have a 20-year-old son.

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Long honored for years of service upon retirement

At a recent Gardendale City council meeting, Mayor Stan Hogeland read a proclamation that the City of Gardendale wishes to honor and thank Kristi Long for her faithful service to her students, schools and the community. Jefferson County Board of Education also honored Long for her three decades of service.

Long has been the principal of Snow Rogers Elementary for the past six years and previously served as the Clay Elementary Assistant Principal. Over her 30-year career in education— spanning schools across Alabama and Tennessee—Long has impacted countless students. From teaching elementary school to serving as a math coach, assistant principal and principal, Long has led with dedication and passion.

Second graders take Helping Hands pledge

Second Graders at Gardendale Elementary School take their Helping Hands Pledge, sing their hearts out, honor their heroes and graduate as Super Citizens at their Hands on Liberty Program Celebration.

SRES Spelling Bee winners crowned

Snow Rogers Elementary School recently hosted a Spelling Bee. Ronan won first place. Noah and Mia tied for second.

Barons Day with Bragg Athletics

Bragg Middle School recently celebrated a successful year for athletics at Barons’ Day with Bragg Athletics.

Rockettes win big at camp

The Rockettes attended UDA Camp at Mississippi State and are leaving with the following awards:

• 1st Place Home Routine

• Team Full Out Award for a standout Performance Routine

• Superior Ribbon for Performance Routine

• Superior Trophy

• Four All-American Dancers

• Two Pin It Forward Awards

• Standout Award and Combine Scholarship

• 24 Drill Down Ribbons

• Bid to Nationals

Bragg Jr Rockettes win big at camp

The Bragg Jr Rockettes attended their first away camp at Mississippi State University. They represented Bragg extremely well and walked away with many awards:

• 2nd Place Home Routine

• Superior Trophy

• Superior Blue Performance Routine

• 29 Superior Blue Ribbons

• 1 Excellent Red Ribbons

• 5 Drill Down ribbons

• Spirit Stick each day

• 6 All American Nominees

• 3 All Americans

• Bid to Nationals

GHS Cheer wins big at camp

The Gardendale High School Cheerleaders won several honors at the 2026 UCA Camp at Auburn University. These talented young ladies came home with:

• ALL Gold Superior Ribbons

• 1st Place Dance

• 1st Place Spirit

• 1st Place Sideline

• 2nd Place Cheer

• 5 All American Finalists

• Pin-It Forward Award for MK

• Leadership Award

• Banana Day 2

Hogeland honors Bragg Softball Team

At a recent City Council meeting, Mayor Stan Hogeland honored several Bragg Middle School Softball players for their achievement as a team with a proclamation. It stated that it is the intent of the City of Gardendale to recognize outstanding achievements of individuals and organizations.

The Bragg Softball team entered the metro tournament against nine other teams; and the team soundly defeated the other teams to be named the Metro Champions of 2026. The Bragg softball team also went undefeated in the regular Metro season ending with a record of 8-0 with a season record of 31-2.

All Bragg team members should be recognized for their hard work and dedication and dedication this season, and are recognized as follows: Hilton Ashe, Alyssa Austin, Presley Banks, Chloe Berendt, Kaysen Goggans, Marlie Gooch, Chloe Johnson, Harleigh Kate Nolan, Preslee Piersol, Adison Posey, Caroline Raymond, Ava Richerzhagen, Addi Jo Robertson, Zoe Rush, Lily Claire Shelton, Emery Smith, Makenna Smith, Stevie South, Kensley Swanigan, Chelsee Williams and Kate Williams.

Preslee Piersol and Chloe Johnson were named to the All Metro Team and Addi Jo Robertson was named the All Metro Tournament MVP.

Bragg Cheer wins big at camp

The Bragg Middle School cheerleaders recently attended a camp at Auburn University and brought home the following awards:

• All Superior ribbons

• 3 All-American finalists

• 1st Place in Dance

• 1st Place in Spirit

• 1st Place in Sideline

• 2nd Place in Cheer

Hogeland honors Bragg baseball

At a recent City Council meeting, Mayor Stan Hogeland honored the Bragg Middle School Baseball team with a proclamation. It stated that it is the intent of the City of Gardendale to recognize outstanding achievements of individuals and organizations. The Bragg Baseball team entered the metro tournament as the number one seed and the team defeated Hewitt and Oak mountain to become the 2026 Metro Champions. All Bragg team members should be recognized for their hard work and dedication this season, and are recognized as follows: Cannon Randolph, Phoenix Jones, JJ

Olivier, Mason Singletary, Corbin Beatty, Dawson Tolbert, Brent Webb, Parker Pearman, Bubba Kingston Kinney, Grayson Webster, Aaron Muro, Bryce Berry, Gage Armstrong, Lane Hansen, Preston Barnett, Jake Donaldson, Dax Keedy,

Tucker Corley, Fulton Wiggins, Noah Beshears, Haydan Berner-Nichols, Wyatt Hendrickson, Cam Florence, Silas Warmack and Coach Tyler Hannah.

Hogeland honors Bragg athletes

At a recent City Council meeting, Mayor Stan Hogeland honored several Bragg Middle School athletes for their achievement in their sports with a proclamation. It stated that it is the intent of the City of Gardendale to recognize outstanding achievements of individuals and organizations. The following Bragg Middle Athletic Students have shown dedication and personal growth in their sports.

• Markell “MJ” Tyson Holds several school records in Track and is currently ranked #1 in Alabama Middle school boys in the 100 meter dash and #2 in the State in the 200 meter dash.

• Brooke Millan is a stand out sprinter who competed at the Alabama State Meet in Gulf Shores.

• Kennedy McAnnally in Golf, played up with the high school team and placed highest in the season and was the only person on the team to qualify for 6A high school sectionals.

• Caleb Wheat in Tennis played up for the high school and won the 4th seed singles bracket in 6A section 7.

• Judson Stephens won the Metro tennis tournament, breaking the school record winning Metro 2nd seed against other large county schools.

SRES Student/Staff Newcomb

The Student/Staff Newcomb game at Snow Rogers Elementary was fun for the students and staff.

SRES Rock Paper Scissors Tournament

Snow Rogers Elementary hosted its annual “Rock, Paper, Scissors” tournament. The winner of our 5th Annual School Rock, Paper, Scissors Tournament is Ania Mayfield.

SRES Attendance Challenge

Students from Snow Rogers Elementary School who met their attendance challenge in the 2025-2026 school year enjoyed time at Bill Noble Park as a reward.

Kimberly supports North Jefferson Middle School FBLA

The City of Kimberly supported and donated to the North Jefferson Middle School FBLA program as these outstanding students continue to achieve excellence at the state level.

Last month, North Jefferson Middle School took eight FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) members to compete at the State Conference in Mobile, and 4 students placed in their events. We are proud to recognize these incredible accomplishments:

• Ava Dukes – 1st Place / State Champion in Annual Chapter Activities Presentation

• Ava Dukes – 3rd Place in Exploring Leadership Objective Test

• Ladarious Dixon – 1st Place / State Champion in Exploring Finance Objective Test

• Chassity Reid – 1st Place / State Champion in Public Speaking

• Jakob Meherg – 2nd Place in Exploring Accounting Objective Test

Congratulations to these students, their teachers and everyone involved in the NJMS FBLA program. Your hard work, leadership, and dedication are making our community proud.

Fultondale Students White Coating Ceremony

Fultondale High School students proudly represented Wildcat Pride at the White Coating Ceremony. This special occasion celebrates the hard work, dedication, and bright futures of the students as they take an important step toward their career journeys. We are incredibly proud of each student representing Fultondale with excellence, professionalism and Wildcat spirit.

Morris Firefighter graduates fire academy

Congratulations to Firefighter/EMT Justin Hirtle on graduating from the Fort Payne fire academy. Hirtle and other recruits have spent the last 10 weeks learning the minimum standards of firefighting. He will build on that base as a full time firefighter with the city of Cullman and part time at Morris.

Fultondale track and field team placed in state meet

Fultondale High School congratulated its track and field team for their incredible performance at the AHSAA 4A State Track Meet.

The girls 4x100m relay team, Rihanna Clary, Shaylynn Hudson, London Nicholson and Samantha Fisher, brought home 3rd place medals.

Several other athletes put up amazing performances against the best competition in Alabama:

• Shaylynn Hudson: Placed in the Top 10 in the state for both the 100m dash and the 400m dash.

• Rihanna Clary: Earned a Top 10 finish in the Girls Long Jump.

• Girls 4x400m Relay: Finished in the Top 10 in the state.

• Girls 4x800m Relay: Finished in the Top 15 in the state.

Peterson declares for Trevecca Nazarene University

Paradise Peterson is taking her talents to the sidelines at Trevecca Nazarene University. We are so proud of all the hard work, dedication, and spirit that led to this moment.

• Austin Rogers: Finished in the Top 15 in the Boys 400m.

• Jaiden Hargers: Finished in the Top 15 in the Boys 400m.

• Deandre Hill-Price: Placed in the Top 15 in the Boys High Jump.

• Logan Jenkins: Placed in the Top 20 in the Girls Javelin.

• Katelyn Curry: Finished in the Top 20 in the state for both the 100m and 300m Hurdles.

• Tristen Hill: Earned a Top 15 spot in the 100m Hurdles.

• Jordyn Hill: Finished in the Top 20 in the 300m Hurdles.

• Aubree West: Finished in the Top 15 in the 400m dash.

• Madisyn Fuller: Placed in the Top 20 in Shot Put.

Roberts reads award winning poem

Jack Roberts read his winning poem, “Alabama, You are Great,” at The Father Goose Poetry Festival this Saturday at the Homewood Library. Jack is pictured with his medal and Father Goose, author Charles Ghigna, as well as with his mom and dad (Katie and Jason).

Mt. Olive Elementary 5th graders graduate

Mt. Olive Elementary School’s 5th grade students had an Awards Celebration as they graduated to middle school.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Fultondale Founders Day

Fultondale Founders Day will be August 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Black Creek Park.

Kimberly Founders Day

Kimberly Founders Day will be September 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Kimberly Truck Stop (9178 Old Hwy. 31).

Warrior Day

Warrior Day will be October 17, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Downtown Warrior.

15th Annual Barking at the Moon Festival

The City of Fultondale will host its 15th Annual Barking at the Moon Festival on October 25, 1-5 p.m., at the Fultondale Bark Park. The event will feature costume contests for children and dogs, craft and food vendors, tent-or-treat and weiner dog races. The event is free to attend and leashed, friendly dogs are welcome.

Morris Blue Spoon Chili Fest

The Morris Blue Spoon Chili Fest will be November 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Morris Town Park.

Dixieland Outfitters

Dixieland Outfitters, 8037 Rouse Road in Warrior, recently hosted a ribbon cutting. They offer outdoor gear and specialize in thermal hunting equipment and accessories for outdoor enthusiasts across our area and beyond. They can be reached at (205)907.9627 or at dixielandoutfitters.com.

Harbor Freight Groundbreaking

Fultondale hosted a Groundbreaking Ceremony for the new Harbor Freight, which will be located just off Walker Chapel Road. The company hopes to have the store open by late 2026.

Corner High School Students Represent School at HOBY

Corner High School was proudly represented at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) Foundation seminar by Mackenzie Cotton and Akelei Madison. These outstanding young ladies represented Corner with excellence, leadership and pride throughout the event. They had the opportunity to develop their leadership skills, connect with fellow student leaders from across the state, and create lasting memories and friendships.

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Gardendale Chamber of Commerce Luncheon

The Gardendale Chamber of Commerce Luncheon in May featured guest speaker Patrick Evans, chair of the UAB Department of Music. The Gardendale High School Choir also performed a medley from the musical “Wicked.”

Civitans host annual Crossing Guard Breakfast

Each year, the Gardendale Civitan Club hosts a breakfast to honor the crossing guards. Attended by city leaders and the guards, it is a nice way to wrap up a year of protecting the children of Gardendale.

6U Gold Bracket All-Star Champ

The 6U Gold Bracket All-Star Warmup Champs.

Gardendale Library hosts paleontologist

Mrs. Skye and Elevation Science for Natural History Exploration recently came to the Gardendale Library to share what it’s like to be a paleontologist and the cool bones, teeth and claws with patrons.

Red White and Blue Bash

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday at the Red, White, & Blue Bash on July 3 at Gardendale Baptist Tabernacle. This free, familyfriendly community event will feature food, music, games,and fireworks from 5:30–8:30 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring family and friends for an evening of patriotic fun and celebration.

Gardendale Farmers Market

The Gardendale Farmer’s Market is back every Thursday through September at Bill Noble Park.They are kicking off another season of fresh produce, local vendors, hometown favorites and community. The market will be open each Thursday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

North Jefferson Republican Patriots

The North Jefferson Republican Patriots will meet July 16, 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. to 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.