Holiday deadlines for 2026: Moundville Times will be closed Good Friday, April 3. Early deadline is Thursday, April 2. Moundville Times will be closed for Memorial Day, May 25. Be sure to get your stories, ads and photos by Friday, May 22. Moundville Times will be closed for Independence Day Friday, July 3. Early deadline is July 2nd before 4 p.m. Moundville Times will be closed for Labor Day Sept. 8. Moundville 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
Cowboy is about 8 months old, a handsome Mastiff mix, and already knows what it’s like to be lost. He came to the Hale County Animal Shelter as a stray after getting into some trouble while trying to survive on his own. Despite his rough start, Cowboy has shown us just how smart and adaptable he is. He learned his daily routine at the shelter with ease and proves every day that he wants to do right. He’s good with kids and other dogs, loves being outdoors, and never turns down a meal. Cowboy will need a family willing to invest time in house training and one-on-one guidance, but in return you’ll get a loyal, eager-to-learn companion who just wants a chance. With structure, patience, and love, Cowboy has all the makings of an incredible dog.He is neutered, up to date on vaccines, and ready to trade shelter life for a couch, a yard, and a family to call his own.
Born Here, Still Waiting… Meet Sammy, Steel, and Snoop, Momma SNAFU’s babies. These pit mix boys were born at our shelter in March and will be one year old soon… and they’re still here. Over 50 lbs, neutered and vaccinated, adoption fees SPONSORED, and good dogs who just need training and a chance. Our shelter is small, with limited kennel space. These boys were never meant to grow up behind bars. They deserve homes, families, and a life beyond the shelter walls. Please share, adopt, or help us find their forever homes before time runs out. Their story can still have a happy ending. Autumn Harrison, Hale County Animal Shelter, 334-624-8120.
Church & Community Events
Hale County Spring “Green-Up” Pasture Forage Meeting
Join us Feb. 12, at the Hale County Extension Office, located at 701 Hall St., Greensboro, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. for the Hale County Spring “Green-Up” Pasture Forage Meeting. This meeting will focus on spring green-up of pasture forages as warm-season grasses begin to emerge. Topics will include identifying common warm-season grasses, fertilizer considerations, and proper soil sampling to support healthy forage growth. This is a free event, but we do ask that you RSVP by visiting https://au-academics.my.salesforce-sites.com/pmtx/evt__conf_detail?id=a1RUg000000y9oPMAQ, calling the Hale county office at (334) 624-8710, or by calling Court Green-Johnson at (205) 659-6796.
HERO PATHs Resiliency WorkshopOur second round of HERO PATHs Resiliency Workshop is 15 days away and we’re getting ready to dig a little deeper into resiliency, building off the strong foundation that many of you have already helped to establish. Let’s go Hale, Tuscaloosa, and Pickens Counties! As you have requested, Saturdays, or at least mid-day, sessions have become a reality in the area, and we’ve offered this workshop at a time that was designed with YOU in mind. It’s not too late to register. This six-week, grant-funded workshop is open to Veterans, spouses, dependents, and organizations that support Veterans and focuses on strengthening your resiliency through: Hope, Empowerment, Resources, Opportunities, Practice, Attitude, Training, and Health = Success. Class Dates: Jan. 24, Jan. 31, Feb. 7, Feb. 14, Feb. 21, Feb. 28 at 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at Shelton State Community College – Martin Campus, Wellness Center, Room 1251, 9500 Old Greensboro Rd., Tuscaloosa. Register: https://sheltonstate.formstack.com/forms/resiliency_workshop_registration?fbclid=IwY2xjawPRytlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFHc2Ywa3VQanB2V1VKUVRHc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpGLaURBPjvngOaNYAdAIeXKp4gbRclc5oRZE8Cg03vBeZLc_WXhpKBwEBCg_aem_illswlC8rnti7__8A1kpBg
(Or click the QR code on the flyer on Hale County-Alabama Extension Facebook page to register.) This is a safe and supportive space to reconnect, reflect, and grow alongside fellow Veterans and families from across our region. If this is your first time attending or if you’re returning for Round 2, you are welcome here.
Alabama Extension Year of Invasive Plants
Have you heard? Alabama Extension and other partners across the state are working hard to increase public awareness, improve identification skills, and control non-native invasive plants on public and private lands. We need your help! You can get in on the action this year in several ways. Follow the ACES – Forestry, Wildlife, & Natural Resources Facebook page where every Sunday we will highlight a different invasive plant. Share posts to your network to help us increase public awareness of these plants in the landscape. Join us at classes, workshops, or volunteer events to learn more and contribute to removing these plants in public spaces. Record control efforts on public or your own private property for participation incentives and additional resources to aid in your efforts. Want to get involved? Take the pledge! Visit www.aces.edu/go/YearofInvasivePlants to learn more about the project, take the pledge, and record your actions!
Free Community Hearing Screenings and Presentation at Akron Library
The University of Alabama College of Arts and Sciences and Auburn University Outreach will have free hearing screenings and presentation on Fri., Jan. 23 at 10 a.m.-noon at Akron Public Library, 200 1st Ave. S., Akron. Contact the Hale County Extension Office for more information 1-334-624-8410.
Reverend Dr. Clarence L. Gary Pastoral Installation Service
First Baptist Church of Akron, 7160 First Avenue North, Akron, will host their Pastoral Installation Service in honor of Reverend Dr. Clarence L. Gary on Sun., Jan. 25, at 2 p.m. at the church. Sunday morning worship service will be presented at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. West Moore, III, to deliver the preached word of God. The installation sermon will be presented by Reverend Dr. Jessie J. White Jr., pastor of Trinity Missionary Baptist Church of Tuscaloosa. Everyone is welcome.
AARP Alabama Now Accepting 2026
Community Challenge Grant Applications
The annual program aims to make communities in Alabama more livable for people of all ages. AARP Alabama invites local eligible nonprofit organizations and governments to apply for the 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant program, now through March 4, at 5 p.m. Eastern. AARP Community Challenge grants fund quick-action projects that help communities become more livable by improving public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and more. Now in its tenth year, AARP will double its investment, awarding over $8 million in grants as part of its nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for all residents, especially those age 50 and older. This year, the AARP Community Challenge is accepting applications across three different grant opportunities. All projects must be consistent with AARP’s mission to serve the needs of people 50 and older along with other eligibility criteria.
• Flagship grants support projects that improve public places; transportation; housing; digital connections; and disaster resilience. Awards range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000.
• Capacity-building microgrants are paired with expert support, webinars, and cohort learning for projects to improve walkability and bikeability; implement safe, accessible home modifications; and disaster preparedness training. Awards are $2,500.
• Demonstration grants fund projects that encourage replication of exemplary local efforts. This year’s focus is on improving pedestrian safety, with funding support from Toyota Motor North America; expanding high-speed internet access and adoption, with funding support from Microsoft; and housing choice design competitions. Awards typically range from $10,000-$20,000, not to exceed $25,000.
The Community Challenge is open to eligible 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) nonprofit organizations and government entities. Other types of organizations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to tens of thousands for larger projects. All projects must be completed by December 15, 2026. To submit an application and view past grantees, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.
Moundville Lithic Arts Festival
On March 6-7, Moundville Archaeological Park and Museum will host the Moundville Lithic Arts Festival (formerly, Knap-In).
Blackbelt Community Foundation Arts &
Community Grants Cycle
BBCF is excited to announce that it is almost that time again when we roll out our annual Arts & Community Grants Cycle! There will be four virtual workshops, easy to attend via the registration links on flyer and below. It is mandatory for any organization applying for the first time for BBCF funding to attend at least one workshop. Previously funded grantee organizations are not required to attend: RSVP early before spots fill up: Tues., Jan. 20: 12-1:15 p.m. Register Now: https://qr.codes/WOQlJ6
7:00 – 8:15 p.m. Register Now: https://qr.codes/LU6bAp
Thurs., Jan. 22 12-1:15 p.m. Register Now: https://qr.codes/ndD6KQ
7-8:15 p.m. Register Now: https://qr.codes/ICDaNA
Alabama State Council on the Arts
New year, new funding opportunities! The Operating Support program is currently accepting submissions from new applicants for fiscal year 2027. Eligible organizations are invited
West Alabama Rural Planning Organization Meetings
The West Alabama Rural Planning Organization (RPO) will hold the following meetings: Citizens Transportation Advisory Committee (CTAC) Hale County Tues., Jan. 20, 5:30 p.m. – Moundville City Hall, 410 Market St., Moundville, Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC), Feb. 12, 10 a.m. – West Alabama Regional Commission, 4200 Hwy. 69 N., Northport. Also available virtually. RPO Policy Committee, Feb. 13, 0:30 a.m. – West Alabama Regional Commission, 4200 Hwy. 69 N., Northport. Also available virtually. If you would like to participate, please email zane.davis@westal.org at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. The meeting documents are posted on the WARC website (https://www.warc.info/rpo-meetings/ and https://www.warc.info/rpo-documents).
31st Annual Alabama Beekeepers Symposium
Feb. 7, 2026, at 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. One day symposium for beginning to advanced beekeepers. Features 4 tracks and vendor hall. Lunch and refreshments included. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) is an equal opportunity educator, employer, and provider. If you need a reasonable accommodation or free language access services, contact William Rowe at 251-589-5572 or wjr0001@aces.edu by 1/17/2026. Wallace State Community College School of Nursing and Science, 453 Frances Dodd Dr., Hanceville.
West Alabama Transit Committee Meeting
The West Alabama Transit Committee will hold a meeting on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. The meeting will be held at the West Alabama Regional Commission (4200 Highway 69 North, Northport). This meeting is the first of two that will be used to produce a status report for the West Alabama Coordinated Public Transit Plan 2024. Federal regulations require a coordinated transit plan be in place prior to the use of certain federal transit funds. Any agency that intends to pursue a Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5310 – Elderly and Disabled Program or Section 5311 – Nonurbanized Program must participate in the plan development. The plan, report, and transit committee are cooperative efforts between the Tuscaloosa Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and the West Alabama Rural Planning Organization (RPO). The MPO and RPO staff will develop the report with the assistance of the West Alabama Transit Committee.
The meeting is open to the public. Anyone requiring special assistance should contact the WARC at least 48 hours prior to the day of the meeting. For special assistance, call the WARC at 205-333-2990.
Alabama Black Belt Adventures launches 14th year of Big Buck Photo Contest
Alabama’s Black Belt has earned a reputation as one of America’s premiere deer hunting destinations, and the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association (ALBBAA) wants to showcase your best buck again this year. ALBBAA is sponsoring its Big Buck Photo Contest for the 14th consecutive year, and the winner will be determined by online voting. The winner of the year’s contest will receive a $100 gift card and a copy of Black Belt Bounty, a coffee table book filled with stunning images, wildlife essays, colorful stories on our hunting and fishing traditions, wild game recipes and more. The contest is now open and voting will conclude on Feb. 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Alabama’s deer hunting season began last month for bow hunters, and the gun deer season starts with special youth hunts on Nov. 14-17. The full gun season runs from Nov. 22 to Feb. 10, 2026, in most parts of the state. ALBBAA encourages all hunters to follow all deer regulations for the 2025-26 Alabama deer hunting season, which can be found online. Here are key rules and guidelines for ALBBAA’s 14th annual Big Buck Photo Contest: All entries must be made online through the ALBBAA website, and the photo must show a buck harvested from within the 23-county Black Belt region. The buck must be taken during 2025-2026 whitetail deer season. The winner of the contest is selected exclusively through online voting. Contest entries are submitted and all votes cast online via the same web page: https://alabamablackbeltadventures.org/news-more/shoot-the-black-belt/big-buck-photo-contest/ Voters may cast one vote per day, per entry, per IP address. In the case of any dispute, the decision of ALBBAA is final. Photo contest winners from the previous two years are not eligible for entry. ALBBAA reserves the right to approve or reject any photo submitted. Cause for a photo’s disqualification can include, but is not limited to, the following: The photo content presents the subject in an unethical or disrespectful composition.
The photo content is perceived to cast a negative perception of hunters and their contribution to the management of wildlife.Voting violation which imposes an unfair advantage to others.
The contestant who receives the most online votes before balloting ends will be declared the winner. Before a winner is declared, ALBBAA will audit voting to make sure all contest rules were followed.
Voting will conclude at 11:59 PM on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, which will give voters time to cast ballots for any photos submitted after the final week of the season.
All sportsmen and sportswomen should purchase a hunting license online through the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources before heading afield. Additionally, successful hunters are also reminded to report all harvested deer through Game Check. The Black Belt includes the following 23 counties: Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Dallas, Greene, Hale, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, Sumter, Tuscaloosa and Wilcox.
Red Cross
Help save lives and empower your health! Schedule a time to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Test. Tuscaloosa:
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.
School Events
Earnie the Eagle: Money as You Grow Book Club
Join us for the Earnie the Eagle: Money as You Grow Book Club at the Hale County Library (1103 Main Street, Greensboro, AL) on Tuesday, Jan. 13th at 11:00 AM. This event will help your child get a head start on money concepts and financial literacy. Enjoy engaging activities and a special guest reader! We look forward to seeing you there!
Alabama Cattle Women
Association Scholarships
It’s that time again! Be sure to apply for our $1,000 academic scholarship. Male or female high school seniors can apply. Deadline Feb. 27. Check out the application and requirements on our website. https://alabamacattlewomen.com/scholarships
Alfa Foundation Scholarship Program
Attending a college or university in Alabama next fall? Apply online for your chance to receive a $1,000 scholarship from the Alfa Foundation Scholarship Program! Students must have an active Alabama Farmers Federation membership in their name to be eligible. Applications are also available for the 2025-26 Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation Scholarship! Students must be pursuing degrees in agriculture or forestry at Auburn University, Alabama A&M University or TUSKEGEE UNIVERSITY. Applications for both scholarship programs are open at AlfaFarmers.org/Scholarships now through Feb. 2. Don’t delay — apply today!
Governor Ivey Invites Alabama Students to Participate in the Alabama Governor’s
App Challenge
Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday invited Alabama students to join for the 2025-2026 Alabama Governor’s App Challenge, a statewide computer programming competition for students in grades K through 12th with the goal of providing students the opportunity to gain recognition for their mastery and application of computer programming and design. The App Challenge is intended to highlight the value of computer science and STEM education. The Alabama Governor’s App Challenge accepts computer programs (or apps) written in any programming language and for any platform. The Challenge is designed to promote innovation and engagement in coding and computer science. The competition is open to all students, regardless of coding experience, who meet the eligibility requirements. Students are eligible to participate as individuals or in teams of up to three members. The role of the LEA Technology Coordinators will be vital in supporting the app submission process and providing teachers with technical assistance as needed. The rules, scoring rubric, timeline of important dates, and additional resources are located on the Alabama Governor’s App Challenge website. Important Details: Teachers must register students online by Jan. 19, 2026. Participating schools will determine a winner by grade band and submit it to the LEA Technology Coordinator by Jan. 30, 2026. For more information about the Alabama Governor’s App Challenge, please visit the official website at: https://sites.google.com/view/algovernorsappchallenge
Any questions concerning the Alabama Governor’s App Challenge can be sent to CS4Alabama@alsde.edu.
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
| Jan. 12, 2026 📰 BEST BETS Gift Creates Faculty Endowment in School of Leadership and Policy Longtime benefactor Hugh F. Culverhouse Jr. has gifted the first endowment to support The University of Alabama School of Leadership and Policy through the Hugh F. Culverhouse Jr. Endowed Professorship in Leadership and Policy. Why This Matters: Culverhouse’s $500,000 gift will help the School attract and retain nationally recognized scholars and experts in public policy and leadership. The endowment is pending approval by The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees in February. For more information, contact Alex House at alex.house@ua.edu. New UAPD Chief Named The University of Alabama Police Department has named former deputy chief and longtime police executive Scott Thurmond as chief. Why This Matters: Thurmond, who has been serving as interim chief since August 2025, brings more than 25 years of policing experience, including serving as chief of the Birmingham Police Department from 2022 to 2024. As chief of UAPD, Thurmond will lead day-to-day operations and implement goals, policies, procedures and standards. Realizing the Dream Events Start Friday The Realizing the Dream Committee is ushering in the 2026 season under the theme “Realizing the Dream Through Faith and Action,” unveiling a lineup of events that will feature nationally acclaimed voices in film, ministry and music. Why This Matters: The annual Realizing the Dream events, which celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., are organized by a committee that includes representatives from Shelton State Community College, Stillman College, the Tuscaloosa chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and The University of Alabama. 📅 EVENTS Movement in the Museum: Candlelit Yoga Jan. 13; Alabama Museum of Natural History Huxford Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition Jan. 16-18; Moody Music Building |