Holiday deadlines for 2026: Moundville Times will be closed for Labor Day Sept. 8.1Moundville Times will be closed for Thanksgiving Nov. 23-27. We have to submit the paper early due to the printing company being closed for the holidays. Deadline is Friday morning, Nov. 20. Santa Letters are due first Friday in December, Dec. 4. Ads for the Santa Letter edition are due Dec. 11. Both Christmas and New Year’s deadlines are Friday, Dec. 18. We have to submit both papers early due to the printing company being closed for the holidays. Moundville Times will be closed Dec. 21-Jan. 3 for the holidays.
Hale County Animal Shelter Pets of the week
Scout and Ace are looking for separate/same foster or furever home!! These two lucky dogs were picked up in Hale Co by a very caring and loving young lady. Her and her parents have kept these two boys for the last month and its time for them to come into the animal shelter. We’d much rather them be adopted or find a foster!! These boys do have a very sad story, like alpt of strays in hale co do, unfortunately. these boys were born on the streets and forced to grow up a stray but for the last month they have been giving the correct nutrients and love they needed and are ready for a place to call their own. yes they are brothers but not bonded and can go separately. both sweet and timid. it will take time but they can be the best dog you’ve ever owned
Autumn Harrison,
Hale County Animal Shelter, 334-624-8120.
Church & Community Events
Women’s Fall Board Meeting of the St. Paul District
The Women’s Fall Board Meeting of the St. Paul District will be Sept. 19, 10 a.m. at the St Paul District Baptist Association Building. We’re asking all ladies to please grace us with your presence and ideas to help in our planning session for the upcoming District Association.
Shelton State Community College Will Host A.I. Made Simple
Shelton State Community College will host A.I. Made Simple, a free community training session designed to help participants better understand artificial intelligence (A.I.) and learn practical ways to use A.I. in everyday life and work. The event will be held on Monday, Sept. 28 from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Martin Campus in room 2825. A.I. Made Simple will feature a 90-minute guided, hands-on learning session that introduces participants to artificial intelligence in an engaging and accessible format. The session is ideal for beginners who are curious about A.I., while also providing useful information and practical applications for individuals who already use AI tools. The training is geared toward job seekers, parents, local business owners, and other community members interested in learning how to use AI as a practical tool in their personal and professional lives. The event is part of the Alabama Community College System’s AI Community Caravan, a statewide initiative designed to increase A.I. literacy by providing free, community-based A.I. training through Alabama’s community colleges. The initiative emphasizes demonstrations, participant activities, questions, and discussion to make AI education approachable for learners at varying levels of experience. Space is limited, and registration is required. To register, visit https://sheltonstate.formstack.com/forms/ai_made_simple. For more information about other upcoming events at Shelton State, visit sheltonstate.edu.
FMBC Women’s Conference
The FMBC Women’s Conference will be Sept. 19, 11 a.m. First Missionary Baptist Church, 136 Lt. WJ Williams St., Moundville. Theme: “Women of Restored and Redeeming Faith.” For more information contact Sarah Griffin at 205-886-6242. Rev. Albert Ike, Jr., pastor.
Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Now Open
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is currently accepting entries for the 2027 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest. The deadline to enter is Oct. 30. “Each year, nearly two thousand images are entered in the Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest by some of the best amateur photographers in our state and from across the country,” said Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner. “Their photos showcase the abundant wildlife, public lands and outdoor recreation opportunities that make Alabama the perfect destination for outdoor photography. We are honored to highlight their work and look forward to seeing the incredible photos entered in the 2027 contest.” The 2027 photo contest will focus on traditional photography techniques and the use of handheld cameras. No cellphone, smartphone, game camera, or drone photography will be chosen as winning photos for nine of the 10 categories. Smartphone and tablet photos will be accepted in the Young Photographers category. The photo contest is open to state residents and visitors alike, but qualifying photos must have been taken in Alabama in the past two years. Any amateur photographer not employed by ADCNR is encouraged to enter.
A total of 10 photos per person may be entered in the following categories. You may enter all 10 in one category or among several categories. First, second, third and one honorable mention will be awarded in each category.
2027 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Categories
Alabama State Parks
Birds
Bugs and Butterflies
Cold-blooded Critters
Nature-Based Recreation
Scenic
Shoots and Roots
Sweet Home Alabama
Wildlife
Young Photographers (ages 17 and under)
The winning images will be featured online and in a traveling exhibit at various venues across the state during 2027. The 2026 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Exhibit is currently on display at the Oak Mountain State Park Interpretive Center in Pelham until September 16. Additionally, the Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest Retrospective is currently on display at the Georgine Clarke Alabama Artists Gallery in downtown Montgomery until Sept. 25. The show is free to attend and features winning images from the 2021-2025 contests. To view the complete exhibit schedule, visit www.outdooralabama.com/photo-exhibit. For complete 2027 category descriptions, contest rules and sponsors, visit www.outdooralabama.com/photocontest. ADCNR promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Learn more at www.outdooralabama.com.
Health Extension for Diabetes
Are you living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes? Join us for a free 8-session education and support program designed for individuals diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. The program will connect participants to clinical resources through partnerships with Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists. The eight sessions of the program help participants learn ways to manage their diabetes with the following: Diet, Physical Activity, Medication and Monitoring, Healthy Coping and Problem-Solving, Reducing Risks for Associated Health Problems. Date and Time: Tues., Sept. 22 at 1 p.m. Location: Hale County Extension Office, 701 Hall Street, Greensboro, AL 36744. Registration is required. Register here: https://auburn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cU7bDNIXXmsqXl4 For more information, contact the Hale County Extension Office at 334-624-8710 or Tera Glenn at 205-561-4094.
Alabama Extension for the IPM Field Guide Webinar Series
Join Alabama Extension for the IPM Field Guide Webinar Series, a monthly online series designed for small fruit and vegetable growers, beginning and veteran farmers, and community and home gardeners. Each session focuses on cost-effective, sustainable pest management strategies that can help reduce crop losses, lower input costs, and improve long-term farm productivity, with information you can put to work right away. Register to receive the webinar link and join us on the last Friday of each month at 5:30 p.m. CT. https://www.aces.edu/go/5873
Culverhouse School of Accountancy, LIFT, UA FREE Computer & Smartphone Tutoring
Join us at the Hale County Library, 1103 Main Street, Greensboro, for FREE Computer & Smartphone Tutoring Fridays at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 18, 25, Oct. 2, and 9. You will be tutored individually by a UA student. Come by for questions that need to be answered, fun tech challenges, and fellowship. To reserve a tutor, register at lift.culverhouse.ua.edu and click on “Classes,” or text your name and “Hale County” to 205-535-0907.
Hale County Soil and Water Conservation District Meeting
Tues., Sept. 15 at 9 a.m. at the Hale County College and Career Center, 19875 Hwy. 69, Greensboro.
Back 2 Basics: Urban Green
Ready to grow your home horticulture skills this fall? Join the Alabama A&M Home Horticulture team for Back 2 Basics: Urban Green! We’re covering everything from stormwater management and fall flowers to starting your own lawn care business. When: 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, Aug. 19 – Nov. 18. 10-11 a.m. Virtual via Zoom for free. Registration required: www.aces.edu/go/B2B Questions? Email Allyson Shabel at ams0137@aces.edu
Hale County 4-H Book Drive
The Hale County 4-H Youth Council is hosting a Book Drive to support the Literacy Council of West Alabama and its mission to improve literacy for people of all ages. We are asking 4-H members and our community to donate gently used books that will be placed in Little Libraries throughout West Alabama. Donations can be dropped off at: Hale County Extension Office, 701 Hall St., Greensboro. Every book donated helps inspire a love of reading and makes a difference in someone’s life.
China Grove Church Homecoming and Sacred Harp Singing
The China Grove Church Homecoming and Sacred Harp Singing will be held on Sept. 12, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend.
Beef & Forage Field Day
Producers across Alabama are invited to the 2026 Beef & Forage Field Day, Fri., Oct. 16, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Blackbelt Research & Extension Center, 60 County Road 944, Marion Junction, an event that will offer livestock and forage producers real-time demonstrations, learn directly from Extension Specialists about current research, forage management strategies, and practical techniques that support productive, sustainable operations. Registration is free. Sign up online at aub.ie/BBFieldDay26
Boost Your Credit Score
Learn how to read your credit report, dispute errors, and build long-term financial strength Tues., Sept. 22, 10-11 a.m. Sumter County Extension Office, 106 Hospital Drive, Livingston. A strong credit history opens doors to lower interest rates, better housing options, vehicle financing, and greater financial security. You’ll learn how credit scores are calculated, what lenders look for, how to spot and dispute mistakes, and proven strategies to build and maintain good credit. Register today by calling the Sumter County Extension Office 205-652-9501.
Eco-Friendly Fridays
Ready to grow your environmental knowledge? Join Alabama Extension for Eco-Friendly Fridays, a free webinar series featuring practical strategies for protecting human, animal, and environmental health. Whether you are an educator, environmental professional, or nature lover, this series can help you become a better steward of the environment and its resources. Registration is required, and the Zoom link will be provided after registration. Register at www.aces.edu/go/EcoFriendlyFridays
Red Cross
Help is needed right now ─ and a simple act of donating blood or platelets can be the lifesaving gift people are counting on. Book a time to give blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Tuscaloosa: 9/16/2026: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 729 Paul W. Bryant Dr.; 9/25 : 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 733 James I Harrison Jr. Pkwy.; 9/28/2026: 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, 605 Lurleen B. Wallace Blvd.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you know is struggling to cope emotionally this holiday season, reach out. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free, and confidential support via phone or chat for people in distress, resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Visit 988lifeline.org for more.
West Alabama Regional Commission Board of Directors Meeting
There will be a regularly scheduled meeting of the West Alabama Regional Commission Board of Directors on September 17, 2026 at 11:45 a.m. Presiding will be Brookwood Mayor and Chair of the Board of Directors of the West Alabama Regional Commission, the Honorable Joe Barger. The meeting is open to the public. If you plan to attend, please call to reserve a seat no later than 10:00 a.m. on September 14, 2026. In-person attendance will be by appointment only due to limited seating availability. Anyone requiring special assistance should contact the West Alabama Regional Commission office at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. Should you have any questions, need additional information or special assistance, please call (205) 333-2990, Ext. 202.
School/ Kids Events
GMS Volleyball Can Food Drive
Please donate non-perishable food items to support local families in need through Oct. 30. Drop off locations are at the bus shop, HCC&CA, Washington & Paige Funeral Home, GMS homeroom teachers.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Success By 6 of United Way of West Alabama is proud to provide Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library books FREE to children ages birth to 5 years old in Greene, Hale, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter, and Tuscaloosa counties. Once a month, your child will receive a new book by mail. You only need to do two things: register your child and pledge to read the books to him/her. Please, climb on board Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library! Since UWWA launched the Dolly Parton Imagination Library: 13,467 children have participated in the program in Greene, Hale, Marengo, Pickens, Sumter, and Tuscaloosa Counties. 10,427 children have “graduated” from the program. 443,856 books have been delivered to children in West Alabama. Sign up at https://imaginationlibrary.com/check-availability/
UA Preview: This Week at The University of Alabama
| Sept. 14, 2026 NEED A SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT ON TOPICS MAKING NEWS? — See our frequently updated experts directory here. 📰 BEST BETS Annual flu shot campaign kicks off The University of Alabama’s 15th annual Flu Shot Campaign is underway, offering free flu vaccinations to UA students, faculty and staff at locations across campus through mid-November. Why This Matters: Led by UA’s College of Community Health Sciences, the campaign provides free flu shots at pop-up clinics throughout campus, including locations near the Quad, University buildings and student residence halls. Students and employees do not need health insurance to receive a vaccination. Vaccinations are also available to retired UA faculty and staff and their spouses, as well as spouses and dependents of University employees. New electric buses provide transportation, research data UA is putting research into service with the launch of its new electric bus fleet. Why This Matters: Funded through a federal grant secured by UA researchers and campus partners, the buses provide quieter, energy-efficient transit while creating a real-world research platform for evolving transportation technologies. For more information, contact Jessica Nelson at jessica.nelson@ua.edu. 📅 EVENTS Jerry Siegel: Uncommon Lens Lecture Sept. 17; Paul R. Jones Museum Saturday in the Park: Snake Safety Sept. 19; Moundville Archaeological Park |
William Bartram traveling exhibit coming to UWA in September
The University of West Alabama’s Cahaba Biodiversity Center and Julia Tutwiler Library will host William Bartram and Alabama: A Traveling Exhibit throughout the month of September, exploring the life, travels and discoveries of one of America’s most influential early naturalist-artists. The exhibit will officially open with a reception on Thurs., Sept. 3, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at Julia Tutwiler Library. The University community and public are invited to attend. William Bartram and Alabama tells the story of Bartram’s 1775 journey through Creek territory in what is now Alabama. His four-year expedition through the colonial South, from 1773 to 1777, produced groundbreaking scientific observations and vivid documentation of the people, landscapes and natural resources he encountered. A naturalist, botanist, artist and writer, Bartram was particularly interested in plants with horticultural potential. During his travels, he documented and described numerous plants, including species that were new to science at the time. He also recorded detailed observations of the largely unaltered landscapes and ecosystems of the Southeast, along with his interactions with Native American communities.Bartram’s experiences were published in 1791 in the work commonly known as Bartram’s Travels. His detailed accounts offer a unique historical record of the Southeast and provide an opportunity to consider how the region’s landscapes and natural communities have changed over time. The exhibit was developed by Dr. Kathryn Holland Braund, Hollifield Professor Emerita of History at Auburn University, and is currently touring Alabama. It is sponsored by the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities in the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn University and funded in part by the Leah Rawls Atkins Endowed Fund for Excellence and the Ann Draughon Cousins Endowed Fund for Excellence.
Shelton State Community College’s Terrific Tuesday Concerts
Shelton State Community College’s Terrific Tuesday Concert performances will be at 1 p.m. in the Alabama Power Hall unless otherwise noted on the schedule. Upcoming performances and artists include the following: Sept. 22 SSCC Faculty Recital Sept. 29; Piano Recital Dr. Sophie Wang, piano Mississippi State University Faculty; Oct. 6 Piano Recital Sarah Elias, piano University of West Georgia Faculty; Oct. 13 Student Musicale Oct. 20 Trumpet Recital Dr. Michael Averett, trumpet | Dr. Cindy St. Clair, piano Samford University Faculty; Oct. 27 Bach to Rock Ensemble Dr. Mark Brown, director; Nov. 3 Voice Recital Dr. Luvada Harrison, Matt Davis and Dr. William A. Martin, vocals Byron Thomas, collaborative pianist the University of Alabama Faculty; Nov. 10 Piano Duo Recital Amy Ashley & Lillian Wesley, piano; Nov. 17 SSCC Jazz Combo Dr. Elijah Pugh, director Martin Atrium; Nov. 24 Piano Recital Slade Trammell, piano Roane State Community College Faculty Dec. 1 Annual Holiday Tree-Lighting Martin Atrium. Shelton State’s Terrific Tuesday Concert Series is designed to showcase a variety of repertory styles. Weekly performances are offered by guest artists as well as Shelton State faculty and students. For more information, contact Lillian Wesley at 205.391.2399 or lwesley@sheltonstate.edu.
Black Belt Community Foundation 2026 Levitt Amp Selma Music Series
SELMA: The countdown to an unforgettable season of free, live music under summer sunsets and into autumn evenings in historic Selma is officially underway. The Black Belt Community Foundation (BBCF) announces the themes and calendar for 2026’s return of the Levitt AMP Selma Music Series. Beginning Sat., July 25, the series will bring seven unique cultural experiences to Selma’s Riverfront Amphitheater. Families, friends, and neighbors from across the region are invited to bring their blankets, sunbrellas and lawn chairs to the amphitheater lawn to experience the transformational power of free, live music in bringing community together. Supported in large part by the Levitt Family Foundation, a social impact funder at the intersection of music, public space, and community building, the Levitt AMP Music Series program injects new life into public spaces through free, outdoor concerts across the country. The 2026 season marks an exciting new chapter for Selma, building on the success of past seasons to present professionally produced, immersive themed festival dates running through late October. “This season is about so much more than just the music on stage,” says Lydia Chatmon, TRHT Selma Director. “It’s about bringing people together, supporting our local business ecosystem, celebrating our rich cultural heritage, and showcasing the very best of downtown Selma.” Season of Immersive Themes: Instead of focusing purely on individual performers, the 2026 series is designed around seven planned experiences that offer something for every member of the family. July 25-The Inaugural Bridge City Jazz Festival: The season sets sail with an elegant, smooth-jazz atmosphere. Concertgoers are encouraged to come dressed in all-white attire for this premier opening night event.
Sept. 26-Gospel Fest: An uplifting community favorite that elevates local and regional voices, celebrating the profound spiritual and musical heritage of the Black Belt.
Oct. 10-Fiesta on the River!: A vibrant cultural celebration packed with high-energy Latin music, salsa beats, and a community taco-eating contest, so don’t forget the hot sauce.
Oct. 24-Southern Soul: The Grand Finale: The ultimate season closer, bringing the community together one last night to celebrate some funky soul, great food, and collective joy.