This year, Pell City saw a new spin on an old tradition, as Lights in the Park added a contest to select the best holiday-themed displays.
Presented annually by the Pell City Parks & Recreation Department, this year’s event saw more than 80 entries take over Lakeside Park during the holiday season. The Department collected hundreds of votes from attendees and assembled a special committee to select the winner.
“The Pell City Parks & Recreation Department would like to express its sincere gratitude to all participants, visitors, and voters of the inaugural ‘Lights in the Park’ Holiday Competition,” said Civic Center Manager and Contest Organizer Valerie Painter. “We commend the community for their enthusiastic participation and thoughtful voting.”
And now, without further ado, the winners are:
Overall Winner: Woody’s Tree Service
Anna Otterson / Edward Jones: Silent Night Award – Simple and clean display
Jessica Blackerby / EXP Realty: White Christmas Award – Best use of white lights
Woody’s Tree Service: Deck the Halls Award – Most over-the-top use of lighting
Clean Haul Roll-Off: Christmas is in the Air Award – Best use of inflatables
House of Prayer: The Reason for the Season Award – Best Nativity display
Faith Community Fellowship: Holly Jolly Christmas Award – Best display that makes you laugh
Alabama Clearing & Excavating: Rock Around the Christmas Tree Award – Best use of animation
Metro Bank: The Rudolph Award – Best use of holiday characters
Girl Scouts Troop 24216: Christmas Story Award – Best youth inspired display
The 2024 Lights in the Park award winners will receive additional promotions through Discover and LakeLife 24/7 (Digital and Print). In addition, these winners will have the opportunity to select their locations in the Park for next year’s competition!
“The warmth of our community and the wonder of the Christmas season combine every year for ‘Lights in the Park.’ It’s heartwarming to see Pell City come together to create such a magical experience. Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to everyone involved.”
Lights in the Park at Lakeside Park in Pell City will remain open through the New Year.
On Friday, Dec. 6, the City of Pell City concluded its annual “Lighten the Load” fundraising campaign by donating 15 suitcases each stocked with blankets, toys and essential care items to the St. Clair County Department of Human Resources (DHR).
Lighten the Load is a holiday campaign that collects suitcases for the DHR, ensuring that children entering the foster care system don’t have to carry their belongings in a trash bag. In its fourth year supporting Lighten the Load, City employees donated more than any previous year.
“It’s heartbreaking to think of these little ones facing such a difficult transition, and our contributions can help soften that experience,” Human Resources Director Dawn Childre said. “I know we’re making a real difference.”
Along with generous donations from employees and various departments, the campaign also received a significant contribution from the Alpine Bay Men’s Golf Association, which helped in surpassing last year’s donation totals.
Pictured: City employees transfer donated items for 2024 Lighten the Load to employees of TempForce Pell City, which works in conjunction with DHR to facilitate the annual fundraising campaign around St. Clair County.
The Pell City Police Department is proud to announce Officer Charles Forman as its 2024 Officer of the Year. Forman, who joined the department in 2022, has quickly become a valuable asset to the force, demonstrating exceptional dedication and commitment to public service.
“Officer Foreman is an outstanding young officer,” Pell City Police Chief Clay Morris said. “His dedication to keep our community safe is unmatched. His professionalism, courtesy, work ethic, and productivity were evident on a daily basis.”
Pell City Police Chief Clay Morris with 2024 Officer of the Year Charles Forman
Morris said Officer Foreman was responsible for 48 felony arrests and 142 misdemeanor arrests this year, in addition to hundreds of incident reports and traffic citations or warnings.
Receiving the honor of Officer of the Year from Chief Morris was especially meaningful. Officer Forman began his career in law enforcement as a St. Clair County Corrections Officer working at the St. Clair County Jail. There, he interacted regularly with members of PCPD.
“The way Pell City’s officers carried themselves motivated me to join their team,” Forman said. “So, the next time I saw Chief Morris, I walked right up to him and told him I was going to come work for him. Six months later, he brought me in for an interview.”
Officer Forman came to PCPD from a family known for community service. His great-grandfather, also named Charles Forman, served as coroner for St. Clair County for 10 years.
Officer Forman said the Officer of the Year designation was rewarding and humbling, but more importantly it reflected the Pell City Police Department’s focus on its younger officers. He said the support of PCPD staff and supervisors were the key to his growth. He encouraged young people to pursue careers in law enforcement.
“A lot of young men and women, once they get into this field, they see firsthand how much of a difference they can make in their communities through outreach and assisting others,” Foreman said. “It’s worth it.”
Pell City Police Department held a ceremony to honor Officer Forman and recognize several promotions and new hires on Tuesday, November 20, 2024. During the ceremony, the Department recognized:
Officer of the Year
Officer Charles Forman
Promotions
Corporal Travis Hughes
Corporal Noah Roberts
Sergeant David Emerson
Sergeant Noah Tucker
New Officers
Officer Benjamin Abel
Officer Matthew Dorough
Officer Terry Fellows
Officer Silas Kissack
Officer Byron Moon
Officer Alexis Moreno
Officer Breanna Nabors
Officer James Sargent
Officer Daryl Thistle
Officer Patrick Tunnell
“We are incredibly proud of Officer Forman and all of our officers who have been recognized today,” said Chief Morris. “Their hard work and dedication make our community a safer place. We also extend a warm welcome to our newest officers and look forward to their contributions to the department.”
In St. Clair County, 69 percent of voters approved Local Amendment 1. In the Pell City School Attendance Zone and Tax District, 54 percent of voters approved the measure. Overall, 28 of 30 polling locations voted “Yes” on Local Amendment 1.
The City Council of the City of Pell City accepts the responsibility bestowed by the voters to deliver fair representation to residents of the Attendance Zone through the appointment process. It also recognizes the voters’ desire for leadership of the highest caliber on the Pell City Board of Education.
As Mayor Bill Pruitt and members of the City Council stated during the leadup to the vote, the Council will prioritize a transparent process that results in the appointment of candidates who seek excellence in education. In addition, the Council will seek candidates that prioritize:
A strong interest in public education and student success
A commitment to excellence and continuous improvement
Experience with budgeting and financial oversight
Understanding of school law and policy
Ability to analyze complex data and make sound decisions
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Willingness to collaborate with others and build consensus
Strong work ethic and ability to dedicate time to board responsibilities
Following the General Election, many residents have expressed interest in the application process. A schedule for the release of the official application and the dates when applications may be submitted will be available soon. All procedures for appointment will be adopted by the City Council over the coming weeks following input from the Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee.
The Steering Committee was created by the City Council through Ordinance No. 2024-6158, which was adopted on October 14, 2024. The seven-member committee was activated upon the ratification of Local Constitutional Amendment 1, and have begun their two-year terms. Its members will be organized before the close of 2024 to provide input on the process for appointment.
The Council anticipates that the final appointment process will include most if not all the following actions.
Research and Input
Adoption of Procedures
Timeline and Application Release
Application Submission Window
Steering Committee Application Review
Public Interviews and Comment Period for Recommended Candidates
Board of Education Appointment
Local Amendment 1, supported by the City of Pell City and the Pell City School System, was a ballot measure in St. Clair County, Alabama, on November 5, 2024, aimed at addressing a long-standing issue of representation for residents in the Pell City School Attendance Zone.
With its certification, the Amendment changed the Pell City Board of Education from an elected to an appointed board. The City Council of Pell City will appoint all members of the Board of Education beginning in 2025. At least two members of the Pell City Board of Education must reside within the county portion of the Pell City School Attendance Zone.
The primary goal of Local Amendment 1 was to ensure fair representation for residents in the Pell City School Attendance Zone, who for 40 years have had no direct voting power in the district’s leadership. By appointing the Pell City Board of Education, the Amendment gives these residents a voice in the governance of the schools their children attend.
On Oct. 26, Pell City Police Department was honored to support the dream of Devarjay “DJ” Daniel. This incredible young man is facing hardships that many will never understand, yet it hasn’t deterred him from pursuing his quest.
DJ, who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer at 6 years old, has undergone 13 surgeries. While battling his condition, in 2019 in his home state of Texas, he set out to be sworn in as a police officer by 100 different departments.
In 2024, after a ceremony in Alabama that included 33 law enforcement agencies, DJ has now been sworn in by 871 police departments across the United States.
“To witness DJ’s unwavering spirit in the face of such adversity is truly humbling,” Pell City Police Chief Clay Morris said. “His dream of becoming a police officer is a testament to his strength and courage. We are privileged to share this moment with him and his family.”
During DJ’s ceremony, held at the Birmingham Crossplex, PCPD Lt. Vince Warrington swore DJ in as an honorary officer with the Department.
“Our hearts are with you, DJ,” Morris said. “Welcome to the team.”
The Pell City Board of Education Steering Committee, created by the City Council of Pell City via resolution in October 2024. Among other responsibilities, the Committee will be tasked with interviewing and recommending future members of the Pell City Board of Education to the City Council for appointment. Its members will serve a two-year term.
The City Council created the Education Steering Committee in anticipation of Local Amendment 1, a November 5, 2024 referendum that could return the Pell City Board of Education to its roots as an appointed board.
The same amendment, which will appear on the ballot throughout St. Clair County, will provide representation on the Board to families who live outside City Limits but whose children attend Pell City Schools. The ordinance creating the Steering Committee will not go into effect until voters approve Amendment 1.
Click to read information on members of the Steering Committee
Kelly Furgerson is a graduate of Pell City High School-Class of 2001, the University of Alabama in 2004 and Birmingham School of Law in 2007. She and her husband, Mark, decided to move back to Pell City from Birmingham in order to raise their family. Kelly has two children, Reid and Emma, who are both students in the Pell City School System.
She has a law practice in Pell City, and when she is not working, she can be found at a ballpark somewhere as she is her kids’ biggest fan. She also loves serving in the Rotary Club of Pell City and Victory Church of Pell City. She is passionate about helping people in her professional and personal life.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
The importance of Local Amendment 1 is that it is a possible solution to a problem that has been in existence since 1982. That is a long time – because that is actually the year that I was born.
For years, people have discussed making it a priority to correct the longstanding issue of representation for the residents in the county portion of our school district. This amendment will allow those people who are in the attendance zone but not in the City limits to serve on the City School Board, and I think that is a great thing for this community. Those people are invested in our schools and in our community, and I would love to see some of them get involved and have a real seat at the table.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
A few of the qualities that I will be looking for in future board members should this Amendment pass will be leadership, the ability to work well with others, integrity, and an absolute love for the Pell City School System and all it can be. A great candidate will have a relentless focus on exceeding expectations. Our students, teachers and administrators deserve the very best.
Roland St. John
Roland St. John is a lifelong resident of St. Clair County, having spent all 60 years of his life in the same community outside of the city limits. Roland is the founder and owner of C&R Feed & Supply in Ragland and Odenville, a business he’s operated for over 23 years. In addition to his business endeavors, he is a part-time farmer.
He is a dedicated member of the St. Clair County Republican Party and the St. Clair County Farmers Federation. Roland’s wife, Peggy, is a registered nurse at UAB/St. Vincent’s Hospital with over 23 years of experience. They have grandchildren in the Pell City School System. Roland also works closely with his son, Chad, who is an integral part of the family business.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
I have been a strong outspoken voice for the rural residents that have never had a voice in regards to the Pell City School System. We have paid our taxes and have been excluded because of how the laws are written in the state.
I still don’t agree with not being able to vote on a school board. I had to take a step back and realize that the rural resident will actually be able to seek a position on the school board and know that we will be represented by a minimum of two board members, possibly more.
I think we will have a much better school board that represents each demographic within the school district. This seems like a winning situation for all involved, especially for the students, which should be everyone’s first priority.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
I’m looking for someone with strong character and common sense. Someone who’s committed to serving our community for the long haul and is always willing to listen to our citizens. They should understand the importance of financial responsibility and, most importantly, the safety of our students.
I want to ensure that every single student, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities to succeed. We need to prepare them for the challenges of the real world, making sure they’re equipped with basic skills like reading, writing, and math.
I believe in the power of workforce development and career technical education. We need to offer more opportunities for our students to gain practical skills that will help them succeed in the job market. Finally, a strong discipline policy is crucial for maintaining a positive learning environment.
These are the issues that matter to me, and I believe they should be priorities for our school board.
Tammie Williams
Tammie Williams is a graduate of The University of Alabama with a degree in Electrical Engineering. She also holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Samford University. She has been employed by Alabama Power Company for 40 years and is currently a Senior Engineer.
Tammie serves the community in many capacities; her civic involvement includes the St. Clair County chapter of The Literacy Council, Pell City Schools Education Foundation, Pell City Chamber of Commerce member, United Way of Central Alabama St. Clair County Advisory Board, University of Alabama Blackburn Institute Advisory Board Member, University of Alabama Board of Visitors for Honors College, Logan Martin Red Elephant Club, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
She is a former math tutor and adjunct math teacher and she is also a former Pell City Board of Education member where she served for 9 years. Tammie is married to Ronald Williams and they have two children who are former Pell City High School graduates.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
For many years the Pell City Board of Education has explored different ways for citizens outside of the city limits to have board representation. There were legal roadblocks and scenarios that did not provide the results we wanted to achieve. At this time, Amendment 1 provides a path to provide that board representation as well as precludes the citizens in our attendance zone from affecting the outcomes of St Clair County School Superintendent and their school board processes.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
While there are many qualities and traits that I will be looking for; first and foremost I want future board members to be passionate cheerleaders and champions for our students, teachers, staff and administrators. They should have the ability to make sound decisions with the information given and can be objective without agendas.
There will be differing opinions on the board from time to time, an exemplary board member can disagree but can do so with civility. While attending the monthly board meetings and training is required and necessary, I want future board members to be committed to be engaged in the school system by attending academic and extracurricular activities and spending time in classrooms with educators and students.
Monique Bowman
Monique Bowman, a retired school teacher of 40 years, taught in the Pell City School system for 25 years. She began her career in 1973 with a short break with her first two boys and a short term in France serving with her husband as a missionary. Upon returning from the mission field, she began her teaching career again. Her four boys attended and graduated from the Pell City School System.
Pell City has been her home for the past 50 years, except for the time living in France. Her boys have been involved in the activities of the community and the school playing in the band and sports.
Monique’s field was Social Studies and Spanish. She received her Bachelor of Science degree concentrating in Secondary Education with specialties in History and Spanish from Bob Jones University. She obtained her master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
She taught all levels of history at Pell City High School, finishing her career teaching Advanced Placement classes and head of the History Department. Today she continues to be a part of the ACCESS community of the University of Alabama, online teaching and serving as a docent at the Museum of Pell City.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
I believe that it is necessary for all the people to be represented in the school district. My oldest child graduated in 1996 and my youngest in 2006, but I had no say so in the school system. The reason is that we live half a mile outside the city limits. Yet, my boys had to go to Pell City, not St. Clair County.
Like a good citizen, we voted every election, and if there was an issue for the St. Clair County school system, we voted even though it did not affect us. There are many people in the same situation. It is necessary for parents to have a say so in the system their children attend. Some people may have preferred to have the amendment as two separate things. One to vote on the attendance zone and the other to vote on the appointed or elected board.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
School board members should be the highest of ethical and moral conduct. They should show a respectful attitude to other members, the superintendent, board employees, teachers and all support personnel. This will filter down through the system.
School board members should prioritize high academic standards K-12, not only to be on paper but to be enforced. Someone who wants discipline throughout the system and is consistent regardless of the person. They should seek out strong academic teachers who are going to teach subject matter, not their own ideas. Teachers who are not going to be swayed by the thought of the day.
School board members should have a good sense of finance as they will be making some of the financial decisions or at least approving them for the system. Financial responsibility is important to keep the system sound.
School board members should be able to work together as a team, agreeing with the final goal of having the best system possible. They should not be ‘yes men’ nor be willing to rubber stamp ideas, nor afraid to voice their opinions, but be able to articulate their position clearly. At the same time, they should be able to discuss and disagree with each other amicably and then come to a general conclusion. It is not their time to shine.
School board members need to have the same vision for the system, they cannot be fragmented as this will filter down through the system. They need to commit to attending all meetings, clearing their agenda so that they are readily available to attend.
Cory Bline
A lifelong Pell City resident, Cory has been a dedicated member of the community for many years. A graduate of Pell City High School, he began a career with Allstate in 2007. In 2014, he fulfilled a long-time dream by opening an Allstate agency in Lincoln. A year ago, he relocated the agency back to Pell City and has since become actively involved in local schools, supporting his daughters’ participation in sports, beta club, and engineering. He has donated to Pell City athletics for more than a decade.
Cory’s passion for community extends beyond his professional and family life. He is an active Rotarian, Pell City Chamber of Commerce member, and volunteer coach for youth sports. His wife, Vicki Bline, is a 21-year veteran educator and Pell City Schools employee at the Legacy Learning Center. Together, they share a commitment to education and community development.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
First, we need representation for the whole student body and their parents, and this is a solution that provides it. Beyond that, an appointed board that includes County residents – like me – brings new voices and diversity of thought into the Pell City School System. I think it’s good that we’re opening up the pool, and I expect many people to look for any way to be a part of this new structure.
I also like the structure of staggered appointments for Board of Education members. It ensures an experienced board is in place at all times.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
I’m a big athletics guy, but I plan to seek out applicants who want excellence in academics. That includes students who may need more attention than others, so I hope to find people interested in alternative learning programs.
Other than that, I want people with ideas that we don’t already have – people with experience with successful trends in education. I want to see applicants who have a love for our system and our students but see the bigger picture and want to explore new opportunities.
Rusty Jessup
Mayor Rusty Jessup is a dedicated public servant and longtime resident of Riverside, Alabama. He and his wife, Sandra, a retired school teacher, have called Riverside home for over 20 years.
After graduating from Shades Valley High School and earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Jacksonville State University, Rusty embarked on a successful career in the insurance industry, spanning over 30 years.
A committed community leader, Rusty has served the city of Riverside for nearly two decades. He was first elected to the City Council in 2004 and subsequently as Mayor in 2006. Currently in his fifth term as Mayor, he continues to prioritize the needs and well-being of Riverside’s residents.
Beyond his mayoral duties, Rusty actively contributes to regional and state-level initiatives. He serves as Chairman of the St. Clair County Mayors Association, Chairman of the St. Clair County Healthcare Authority, and a member of the Jacksonville State University Political Action Committee. Additionally, he is a dedicated member of the Alabama League of Municipalities and an active participant at Riverside Baptist Church.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
Since I became Mayor of Riverside, I have tried and tried to find a way to solve this problem. Citizens of Riverside had no representative on the School Board where our kids went to school; and there was no easy way to fix it – unless we wanted to send our kids to County Schools, which was not an option due to location. Geographically, it would be easier for us to go to school in Lincoln as it would be to go to the nearest County School. There are no good options.
While Amendment One does not give us a “vote” to Represent us “as a district”, it does give us representation. The fact that this new Board will be “Seated” by appointment rather than elected means we get representation by a delegate that will represent all of us and not just a “district”. All School Board members will now represent all students – not just the students in their district. This – in my opinion – is the best part. No districts. Simple representation for everyone, regardless of where you live.
I am confident that the Pell City City Council will appoint members that will represent Riverside, as well as everyone else. The amendment requires at least two members live outside the City Limits of Pell City. Students out in the school district will be represented. I like it. It is a step in the right direction. I am sure this system will get revisited from time to time (as it should) – but for now, It is a well thought out process, and a huge step for the better.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
Service to humanity is the best work of life. I want someone who has a giving spirit and a history of community involvement. Will do the right thing for the right reason and has no ax to grind. I want positive individuals who are willing to leave the day-to-day operations of the schools in the hands of the paid administrators and the teachers so the School Board can be free to move our schools forward, promote wellbeing, and think ahead.
They should see the big picture, be willing to study how other school boards do things successfully, and lead. They are educated – college degree preferred, but not crucial. Makes a good impression – physically and mentally. Dresses appropriately and gives off a professional appearance in the way they talk and act. Committed to making our school system the best school system in Alabama. Willing to put in the time and sacrifice it will take to accomplish this.
Jeff Jones
Jeff Jones is a longtime resident of Pell City. After graduating from Pell City High School in 1986, he earned a degree in finance from Auburn University.
He has dedicated the past 30 years to the real estate industry, serving as a respected appraiser and developer within the Pell City community. His understanding of local property values and market trends has made him a valuable asset to the area.
Committed to public service, Jeff was elected to the Pell City Board of Education twice and served for six years, elected to two terms.
Jeff is an active member of the Pell City Rotary Club and the Association of Realtors. He is married with four children who have attended Pell City Schools, fostering a deep connection to the community.
My thoughts on Local Amendment 1
The residents of the Pell City School System Attendance Zone voted to increase ad valorem taxes in exchange for representation on the school board. Now it’s up to the residents to approve their seat at the table.
The measure offers a fair and complete plan to give a voice to residents who have lacked one in administrative decisions for the entirety of the Pell City School System’s history.
What I will be looking for in a Board of Education candidate
I envision a School Board member who can see the big picture – someone who has a vision for what our system could be, should be, and will be.
I would like to see a candidate who’s willing to learn from others, and who can inspire our district to reach new heights. Someone who trusts our administrators and teachers to handle the day-to-day, while the Board focuses on long-term goals and strategic planning. Someone with a positive outlook that will be displayed to school administration, faculty & students.
On Oct. 14, the City Council for the City of Pell City recognized outgoing Municipal Judge Brandi Hufford for her “significant contributions to the City and her service and dedication to the community.”
Hufford was appointed to the position of Municipal Judge following the retirement of Judge Van Davis in 2018. The Council noted her appointment as “historic” in a proclamation read by Mayor Bill Pruitt during the Council Meeting, as Hufford was the first woman to serve as a municipal court judge in St. Clair County.
Judge Brandi Hufford and son, Sloan, with Mayor Bill Pruitt during the City Council meeting October 14.
“I’m aware of what you did in allowing me to serve,” Judge Hufford told the Council. “Judge Van Davis was a mentor of mine, and it meant a lot for me to come in after him. I’m proud of you all, and I’m proud of this City.”
Joined by her husband, Del Hufford, and son, Sloan, Judge Hufford was recognized by the Council for her wisdom, compassion, and legal expertise in her service to the City. The Council also celebrated the continuance of her leadership as she prepares for her upcoming role.
Hufford ran an uncontested race for St. Clair County District Judge, Place 1 in 2024. The day after she was recognized by the Council, in a ceremony attended by hundreds at the St. Clair County Courthouse in Pell City, she was sworn in by Circuit Judge Phil Seay to her new position.
She is also the first woman to serve as an elected judge for St. Clair County.
“That distinction is less about me and more about you,” she told the audience during her swearing in ceremony. “I would not be here without each of you.”
Hufford replaces District Judge Alan Furr, who retired from the position after 13 years of service. Furr was honored during the ceremony with the presentation of a new portrait that will hang in the St. Clair County Courthouse.
The 2024 season of “Lights in the Park” is fast approaching, and the Pell City Parks & Recreation Department is preparing for it’s biggest year yet as it looks to add an exciting new feature – Awards!
In 2024, community displays will be judged on their creativity and quality, and special recognition will go to the winners. Not only will attendees of the 2024 Lights in the Park be invited to vote on their favorite displays, but a panel of independent judges will also be assembled to vote on several categories from among all participants.
The winners will be recognized in a variety of ways, which means it is more important than ever for your organization to be a part of this community event.
Judges will vote for “BEST OVERALL – JUDGE’S CHOICE”. There will be nine additional categories for the general public to vote on. Voting will begin the first lighting day of our event, Friday, November 29th and end at 9pm Thursday, December 19th. Signs with a QR code will be distributed throughout the park. Visitors will use their mobile phone cameras to scan the code, which takes them directly to our poll.
