City employees help Lighten the Load for children entering foster care

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.

Council recognizes Judge Hufford for service and dedication

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.