Featured

WEST POINT, Ala. – West Point resident and Brandin’ Iron General Manager Josh Speakman is a Republican candidate for the Cullman County Commission, District 2.  “My goal is fostering economic growth, business loyalty and community prosperity,” Speakman said. “In our community, few individuals have contributed more significantly to the establishment and...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Easter Sunday is approaching! We are less than a month away from all the family fun and festivities. As you plan for events and trips in between family gatherings, church services and community agendas, don’t miss out on TheraPlay’s Easter event.   Easter can be overwhelming with crowded egg hunts and the...

CULLMAN, Ala. – As we clean out garages and gather up old clothes and forgotten toys to donate during the process of spring cleaning, keep in mind the many organizations that could use those items.   A local nonprofit aiming to meet the needs of children within the community has requested...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman City Primary School was presented with a $5,000 grant from the TVA to support the school's Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) program this week.   With this award, the CCPS STEM program has now received more than $10,000 in grant funding so far this...

In honor of “Read Across America,” I would like to share my two cents on what it means to be a “reader.”  I didn’t always love to read. I have always loved to write, though I never saw myself as a writer. I would get frustrated at myself when I...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 13, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No arrests or incidents reported. Cullman Police Department Incidents March 12 domestic violence-3rd degree; domestic violence-criminal mischief; person; damage...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Attendees gathered Saturday, March 7, at the Cullman VFW for the Cullman County Republican Party breakfast and to listen to two candidates running for statewide office.   Alabama Secretary of State candidate Caroleene Dobson and Alabama Public Service Commission, Place 2 candidate Brent Woodall shared their backgrounds and priorities ahead of the May primary.  Dobson told the crowd she...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Buddy is a Golden Retriever/Lab mix, approximately 2 years old, with a calm spirit that makes an immediate impression. He’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week. Low-energy and full of quiet charm, Buddy carries himself like an unassuming gentleman with manners in...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 12, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Incidents March 9 assault; CR 1222 domestic violence; CR 1101 theft of property; Commercial St. NW theft of property; Hwy....

Pink Moon - April 1, 2026   The Lenten Moon, Paschal Full Moon or the last Full Moon of winter. It has many names, but “pink” is not entirely accurate. This name comes from the early blooming flower called “pink moss phlox” keying the moon's name. April Fools!  Viewing will be...

The closure of Birmingham-Southern College (BSC) left a significant void in West Birmingham. For decades, the 192-acre campus served as an educational and cultural hub. Its vacancy represented a loss of activity and uncertainty for the surrounding community and local economy.  The recent purchase of the campus by the United States Coast Guard marks a strategic turning point. The Coast Guard plans to repurpose the site as a national training center, which will subsequently transform a period of uncertainty into a long-term federal investment that promises meaningful...

Milkweed may have “weed” in the name, but it is an essential native wildflower. It can commonly be mistaken for a weed because it grows among them along roads, in pastures or fields. As we near spring and the time for grass to be cut, consider sparing this friend of our...

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.  - Alabama Public Television recently announced the winners of its 2026 APT Young Heroes Scholarships. Among the three winners is Cullman High School Junior Grayson Gay. Other winners are Kayden Bland of Billingsley School and Courthey Pride of Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham. Each student will receive a $10,000 scholarship to the school of...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 11, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No arrests or incidents reported. Cullman Police Department Incidents March 9 criminal mischief-3rd degree; LaQuinta Inn & Suites; damaged...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Prom season is upon us, and the experience continues to evolve as trends, technology and spending habits change over the years.   Sonya White, owner of First Avenue Bridals and Formals, said the formalwear industry has seen major shifts during her decades in business. White...

CULLMAN, Ala. - As winter turns to spring and temperatures begin to warm across north Alabama, residents enter a time of year marked by rapidly changing and occasionally severe weather. Spring’s shifting temperatures often create the perfect environment for thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and the potential for severe weather, including...

LOGAN, Ala. - Harmony School is preparing to host its annual Southern Beauty pageant, a tradition that has supported the school since 2007.   Pageant organizer Heather Lynn said the event began the same year the school opened and serves as a fundraiser benefiting Harmony School’s general fund.   “We began Harmony’s...

We can protect ourselves from colon cancer; a cancer that affects people of all genders, races, and backgrounds. The recent deaths of well-known actors James Van Der Beek and Catherine O’Hara from colorectal cancer (CRC) are a sad reminder that this disease can affect...

Key Lime Pie, a local, genre-blending band known for its energetic performances and wide-ranging setlist, has recently announced it will begin auditions for a new lead vocalist.   Lead guitarist Max Townson said the band performs music spanning several decades and genres to appeal to a...

CULLMAN, Ala.- The Cullman Lady Bearcats welcomed rival Jasper on Tuesday evening for their first area game of 2026, and sent the Vikings home with a 6-1 loss. The Bearcats, with the win, improved their record to 13-2 on the year. Starting, and eventually finishing,...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 10, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No incidents or arrests reported. Cullman Police Department Incidents March 5 theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; general merchandise; $146;...

CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Commission on Aging said the Crane Hill Senior Center held its annual community cookout with the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office recently, one of the first in a series of spring events at local senior centers.  Cullman County Commission on Aging Director Stephanie Lawson said a great meal brings...

CULLMAN, Ala. - The City of Cullman was honored Thursday, March 5, with the Rainer Bauer Award, the highest recognition presented by the Alabama Germany Partnership (AGP), during the organization’s annual meeting.  The Rainer Bauer Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose work meaningfully advances AGP’s...

BREMEN, Ala. - Cold Springs High School’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter had an outstanding showing at the FCCLA State Leadership Conference held in Montgomery March 5–6, 2026. The group brought home six gold medals and two silver medals, showcasing...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 9, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Incidents March 5 domestic violence; Commercial St. SE harassing communications; CR 25 unlawful breaking and entering motor vehicle; criminal...

GARDENDALE, Ala. – Josh Moody is the chief executive officer of Covenant Rescue Group. It is a nonprofit based out of Gardendale that fights against human trafficking, child exploitation and other related crimes. Moody and others involved receive law enforcement training to better serve...

Election season produces a familiar pattern.  Bold promises. Absolute declarations. Assurances that sweeping change will occur the moment one candidate takes office.  Then governance begins. And reality intrudes.  At every level of government, candidates speak as if election equals authority. But in most offices, authority is shared....

CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman County Schools will host its annual career fair later this month, offering prospective employees the opportunity to meet with school leaders and learn more about working in the district.  The event is scheduled for Thursday, March 19, from 2-5 p.m. at...

DODGE CITY, Ala. – Cathie Hodges recently opened her coffee shop, Big Boom Coffee Company. The soft opening was March 4, and it will remain open Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m.-2 p.m. until further notice.  The store brews its Big Boom Coffee Signature Roast...

AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. - Bees appear to be social creatures, as they frequently congregate on flowers or nest in plain sight. At the Auburn University Bee Center, researchers and students are digging deeper into the complexities of the sociality of bees.  Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station...

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Governor Kay Ivey has appointed Heath Edward Meherg of Cullman to serve as district judge in the 32nd Judicial Circuit in Cullman County. Meherg fills the vacancy left by Chad Floyd, whom Ivey appointed to the 32nd Judicial Circuit bench Feb....

PELHAM, Ala. – The outdoors is calling — and Alabama’s next generation of explorers is invited to answer.  Alabama State Parks has launched the new Junior Ranger Program, designed to inspire young adventurers, spark curiosity and cultivate a life-long love for conservation and stewardship of the great outdoors.  Open to...

HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College said it is excited to announce the launch of Back on Track, an initiative to build pathways from low-wage jobs to family-sustaining careers. Beginning in 2026, WSCC will partner with the National Center for Inquiry and Improvement,...

HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Roll into the disco era with Wallace State Community College’s Theatre program as it presents “Xanadu” March 13-15 at the Betty Leeth Haynes Theatre. Shows are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, March 13-14 and at 2 p.m. on...

Seventy-two years ago, Capital Records released a recording of a young Andy Griffith. He recorded under the name Deacon Andy Griffith. Side A of the record contained a comedy monologue that was almost six minutes long. It became Griffith’s first big hit. Griffith played the...

From the files of March 7, 1940 To and Fro Robert A. Taft, United States Senator from Ohio, wrote the Festival Committee early this week that he appreciated the kind invitation to participate in the Strawberry Festival on May 16th and continued, “I am awfully sorry...

CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Public Library received a $4,000 Slice of Literacy Grant from the Pizza Hut Foundation to support local literacy initiatives and expand educational programming. Library officials said the funding will help expand the library’s STEAM program, which focuses on...

HANCEVILLE, Ala. - A project to improve Alabama Highway 91 at U.S. Highway 31 in Hanceville began this week.  The project includes widening to add a left turn lane on Highway 91 northbound and relocation and replacement of the signal pole on the southwest corner...

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey on March 3, 2026, signed Senate Bill 149, one of her legislative priorities, into law, creating a new pathway for military veterans to serve Alabama students in the classroom.  “Service is woven into the fabric of who we are...

FAIRVIEW, Ala. - The Fairview Town Council at its Monday, March 2, meeting began with attendees praying for Former Mayor Randall Shedd as he prepares for a medical procedure this week. During updates on ongoing projects, the council reported improvements at the town ballpark are...

HOLLY POND, Ala. – The Holly Pond Town Council at its meeting Monday, March 2, addressed upgrades at Governor’s Park, upcoming events and more.   In old business, Mayor Carla Hart discussed four new picnic tables for Governor's Park. She informed the council that the...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 6, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No incidents or arrests reported. Cullman Police Department Incidents March 5 unlawful breaking and entering a motor vehicle; person;...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Community members gathered Saturday, Feb. 28, at Cotton Creek for an evening of games, food and fundraising at Hope Horses’ annual Casino Night fundraiser. Attendees participated in classic casino-style games, a live auction and the popular “Mane & Tail” game, giving multiple...

CULLMAN, Ala. - The Art Shop Around the Corner hosted a special art exhibition on Sunday, March 1, showcasing work from several local artists, including adult art class students, who shared their work with friends and family. Guests also enjoyed live music and refreshments.   “It...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 5, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Incidents March 2 possession of drug paraphernalia; I65NB 299 Exit unauthorized use of motor vehicle; CR 216 harassment; Sunnyside...

VINEMONT, Ala. - The Vinemont Town Council held its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 3, addressing several items related to town operations and upcoming community events.  Among the items approved during the meeting was the purchase of 15 parking bumpers for the additional...

CULLMAN, Ala. – The North Alabama Agriplex said it is excited to host an expert panel of presenters on March 20, 2026, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The Organic Growing Workshop will teach small growers, backyard gardeners and the general public how to garden using...

CULLMAN, Ala. - FiFi is a 2-year-old Persian cat who brings elegance and affection together in one soft, fluffy package. She’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week.   Playful yet deeply cuddly, FiFi enjoys interacting with her people and is not shy about letting you...

CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman County Public Library System will have three book club meeting this month.    After Hours Book Club: March 6, 5:30 p.m.  The first will be on Friday, March 6, at the main branch downtown (200 Clark St. NE) at 5:30 p.m. The...

CULLMAN, Ala. - The Sportsman Lake Park Spring Yard Sale will return Saturday, March 28, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free, and the event will be held rain or shine.  Shoppers can browse a wide variety of yard-sale finds set up throughout...

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is excited to announce the winners of the 2026 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest. The annual contest highlights some of the best photographers in the state as well as the beauty of Alabama’s...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Students at Cullman City Primary School took part in the school's annual Book Buddy Adoption, giving K-2 students a chance to make a new friend while finding new ways to love reading. Each student adopted a special stuffed puppy or kitten to take home “forever”...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 4, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No arrests or incidents reported. Cullman Police Department No incidents reported. Arrests March 3 Albright, Joshua A.; 40 FTA – driving...

HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College Health Science programs are now accepting applications for fall 2026 admission. The college offers more than a dozen pathways to careers in the medical field.   “Anyone with an interest in working in the health science field can find...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Since its founding in 1981, the Pilot Light Home has provided short- and long-term foster care placements for children through the Alabama Department of Human Resources.  Pilot Club of Cullman Board President Peggy Harris said the nonprofit home, which can accommodate up...

A letter to the editor recently questioned Cullman Electric Cooperative’s motives behind our Community Cupboard initiative. While we welcome open dialogue, it’s important that our members and neighbors have the facts. The Community Cupboards were not created as a publicity effort but out of compassion...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 3, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No incidents or arrests reported. Cullman Police Department Incidents March 2 criminal trespass-2nd degree; person; Skyview Dr. SE Arrests March 2 Swann,...

CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a Lunch & Learn focused on the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” signed into law last July. The session was titled, “From Legislation to Strategy: Understanding the OBBBA and Your Taxes.”  Guest speaker Zack...

TRIMBLE, Ala. - A new locally owned business in Trimble is offering customers a unique retail concept that blends a firearm store with a multivendor market. Iron and Lace LLC, owned by Ashley Moreland, opened Feb. 1 at the Trimble Super Saver.   Moreland said the...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman County Schools recently announced Amanda Bailey and Amber Jones as its January Employees of the Month.  Teacher of the Month: Amanda Bailey, Kindergarten teacher, Welti Elementary School Amanda Bailey teaches Kindergarten at Welti Elementary School.   "Mrs. Bailey is exceptional," said Robert Strane, Welti...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported March 2, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Incidents February 26 possession of controlled substance; possession of marijuana; CR 1643 harassment; Hwy. 69S assault; CR 1141 theft of...

CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman Police Department last week, in conjunction with Cullman County District Attorney Champ Crocker and Covenant Rescue Group, “conducted a proactive child exploitation operation aimed at identifying and apprehending individuals seeking to prey on children,” according to the CPD. The department...

As we enter spring and summer we prepare for the many festivals. The highlight of these events, among games and food, are the booths! Vendors line walkways displaying many intricate crafts and more.   These events are growing, allowing space for more vendors than ever. Have...

CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Public Library System is seeking volunteers, saying they play a vital role in keeping local libraries running efficiently.   CCPLS Assistant Director Shelby Creekmore said the library is always recruiting volunteers, as schedules and life circumstances change.   “The library always needs...

In Alabama, spring can feel like a year-round delicacy since the state is known for its warmer climate. December through February are colder, though as we approach true Southern spring there are a few indicators that go beyond having to take your cardigan off...

I walked about 75 yards from the visitor center, stepped to the railing, looked both ways and gawked.  I’m not a big gawker. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I gawked. But the Grand Canyon will do that to you. It isn’t something...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Mrs. Alabama American 2025, Taylor Folks, will host a special reading event on Tuesday, March 3, at 10 a.m. at Karma’s Coffee House in Cullman as part of Project Crown, a literacy initiative held during Read Across America Week.  “Project Crown is...

CULLMAN, Ala. – A Bremen man was killed in a single-vehicle crash Sunday. Alabama State Troopers identified the victim as William L. Rhodes, 56. Troopers said the crash occurred at approximately 5:35 p.m. They said Rhodes was fatally injured when the 2013 Ford F-150 he was...

HANCEVILLE. Ala. – The Hanceville City Council at its last meeting announced a new city website will launch soon. The key takeaways of the new website are: If you need to know where to pay your light, water or gas bill the proper facilities addresses and...

Last week I was listening to a Christian radio program when the host of the show asked the radio audience, “Is your Christmas tree still up?” He and his co-host went on to discuss when the appropriate time is to take down the tree....

From the files of Feb. 28, 1952 South Walter News Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Burks of Cullman spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. John Guthrie and attended church at Pilgrim’s Rest. Mrs. Alice Ladwig and son, Charles, and Mrs. Mary Grimmett of Steppville spent Tuesday with...

Public records reflect 2014 federal conviction, denied appeal, registry classification, candidate withdrawals and district attorney response As of time of publication, the forum to be hosted by The Cullman Chronicle has been canceled and all information from The Cullman Chronicle’s Facebook page has either been...

HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College will host its first Jill of All Trades event on April 10, from 8:45 a.m.-3 p.m., introducing female high school students from across the region to in‑demand career opportunities in the skilled trades. Jill of All Trades is...

VINEMONT, Ala. - Vinemont Middle School recently crowned winners in its 2026 Junior Miss Vinemont Pageant. Eighth-grade winners Prettiest Smile - Emory Norris Best Dressed - Ella Howard Miss Academic - Hagen Young Miss Congeniality - Hagen Young Miss Photogenic - Brianna Burgess 2nd Alternate - Brianna Burgess 1st Alternate - Hagen...

VINEMONT, Ala. – Vinemont High School recently crowned 2026 Miss Vinemont and 2026 Miss Vinemont Fair Queen.   Makenna Howard was crowned 2026 Miss Vinemont.   Miss Vinemont Pageant winners  Queen- Makenna Howard   1st Alternate- Jenny Price   2nd Alternate- Krimson Gingrich   3rd Alternate- Kylie Metzger   People's Choice- Ella Payne   Miss Photogenic- Kadence Mika   Miss Congeniality-...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman was recently recognized as a Tree City USA community for the 38th consecutive year and received the prestigious Growth Award from the Arbor Day Foundation. The national recognition honors Cullman’s continued commitment to planting, growing and maintaining trees throughout the...

GOOD HOPE, Ala. – Good Hope High School will hold its pageants on Saturday, March 21, in the school gymnasium. The 2026 Good Hope Fair Queen Representative Pageant will begin at 3 p.m., followed by the 2026 Miss Heritage Princess Pageant (ninth and 10th...

HOLLY POND, Ala. - Surrounded by friends, family and members of the community she has called home for most of her life, Louise Carr celebrated her 100th birthday on Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Holly Pond Senior Center.   The day was filled with laughter, well...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported February 27, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No arrests or incidents reported. Cullman Police Department Incidents February 25 retail theft of property-2nd degree; Wal-Mart; general merchandise;...

Cullman Electric Cooperative desperately wants you to believe it cares about the community. Its latest maneuver in corporate benevolence? The "Community Pantry." A pair of wooden boxes meant to house food and supplies completely funded and stocked by the communities they serve. The cooperative...

Tucked away on 308 Second Ave. SE is a trove of unique, timeless pieces. When you first walk in you are greeted with a warm smile that sends you on your architectural exploration.   If you take the path to the right you will pass pedestals....

DODGE CITY, Ala. - In 2021 Susan Sandlin, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, found that she had more time for her crafting hobby. She spent previous years as an insurance agent with Jean Deese Insurance Agency, but discovered craft YouTubers and decided to give it...

CULLMAN, Ala. – It’s time to clear out those large items taking up space at home. Cullman’s annual Spring Cleanup is set for March 30 through April 3, 2026. This special pick-up event is available to City of Cullman residential sanitation customers with curbside...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported February 26, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Incidents February 23 possession of controlled substance; possession of drug paraphernalia; I65SB MM 305 possession of controlled substance;...

CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman City Council on Monday evening held first readings and public hearings for proposed rewording of certain portions of its zoning ordinance to allow for “non-conforming” construction and reconstruction, along with a new “residential enhancement” incentive program for removal and...

CULLMAN, Ala. – During Monday’s Cullman City Council meeting, Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Executive Director Nathan Anderson presented checks totaling over $60,000 to 14 local organizations.   Those receiving checks from the proceeds of the 2025 Cullman Christkindlmarkt included:  Cullman Area Technology Academy  Children’s of Alabama  Brooks’...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Yukon is a striking Snowshoe cat with soulful eyes and a personality that quietly wins you over. He’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week.  Approximately 1 year old, Yukon already carries himself with the gentle confidence of a companion who knows...

Updated Feb. 26, 2026, at 6:57 p.m. to reflect that the CCSO has not provided a statement to The Tribune. CULLMAN, Ala. - Former Cullman County Sheriff's Office employee Elijah David Page, 21, of Cullman, was arrested in Fyffe, Alabama, by the DeKalb County...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported February 25, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No arrests or incidents reported. Cullman Police Department Incidents February 23 theft of property-4th degree; Dollar General; miscellaneous; $12;...

CULLMAN, Ala. The City of Cullman was recognized today for its growing and continued support of the Alabama chapter of the STAR International Police Exchange (IPE) Program, as Operations Lt. Eric W. Cole of the Cullman Police Department presented Mayor Woody Jacobs with a commemorative plaque at city hall.  The plaque serves as a token of appreciation for the City’s partnership and involvement in the STAR IPE Program, which fosters professional development and lasting friendships between law enforcement officers in Alabama, Germany and Spain.  “This plaque represents our gratitude for the City of Cullman’s continued support of the STAR International Police Exchange Program,” said Cole, current leader of the Alabama STAR IPE Chapter. “From City administration to Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism and our police department, it has truly been a team effort. The City’s help with transportation, activities, and coordination made 2025 an outstanding and productive year for the program. I look forward to continuing to grow this partnership and strengthening our connection with our friends in Germany.”  The STAR IPE Program, now celebrating its 40th anniversary, began with a shared bond between police officers in Hamburg, Germany and Los Angeles, California. Today, chapters operate across Germany, Spain and the United States. Each year, Germany hosts an exchange in the spring, Spain in the summer and American agencies in the fall. Officers participate in a two-week professional and cultural exchange, staying with host officers and their families while learning about each country’s equipment, procedures and training methods. The Alabama STAR IPE Chapter was established in 2009 in the Decatur area. For many years, the Cullman Police Department has served as a host agency, welcoming international officers to tour facilities, observe training and engage with agencies across the state.  In 2025, the City of Cullman played an especially important role in supporting the program. Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism coordinated activities that coincided with the city’s annual Oktoberfest celebration, providing guests with an authentic experience that left a strong impression. Several visiting officers even returned during their free time to enjoy more of the festival.  Transportation for a traveling group of officers across Alabama can present logistical challenges, but the City helped address that need by providing a City van so participants could travel together. This support allowed for smoother coordination and more meaningful time spent building professional and personal connections.  “We’re glad to be part of something that builds real relationships,” said Jacobs. “Programs like this give people the chance to learn from each other and see how others do their work. We’re proud to support it and proud that Cullman can play a small role in strengthening those international ties.”  AL STAR IPE is a two-week professional exchange between law enforcement officers from Alabama, Germany and Spain. The program balances professional development with cultural immersion and personal connection, creating lasting relationships while offering valuable insight into different approaches to policing across nations.  For more information about the STAR International Police Exchange Program, contact Lt. Eric W. Cole, operations lieutenant, Cullman Police Department, at 256-775-7175. 

In April 2024, my husband and I discovered a dog sleeping under a tree at the end of our dirt road. There was a “missing dog” sign a few roads over with a picture that looked similar to this dog. We called and they...

Do you want to go to the gym, but don't know where to start? You're in the right place! The gym is intimidating initially, but I will break it down for you.   Should you get a gym membership or pay for instructor led classes?   If you...

CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman Tribune will continue its live candidate debate series in 2026, carrying forward a format established in 2025 that brings candidates and voters together for direct, public discussion ahead of elections. The first confirmed debate of the 2026 election cycle will...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported February 24, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty. GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear Cullman County Sheriff’s Office No arrests or incidents reported. Cullman Police Department Incidents February 23 theft of property-1st degree; person; cash; $20,000 harassing communications;...

Stride for Sophia 5K seeks to raise awareness and open conversation about mental health struggles – March 7  ARAB, Ala. - The Stride for Sophia 5K will take place Saturday, March 7, at 9 a.m. at Arab City Park, inviting the community to celebrate the...

EVA, Ala. – The following is a transcript of an interview from Alabama Public Service Commissioner Jeremy Oden, in which he answers a range of questions he has been asked during his reelection campaign for Alabama Public Service Commission, Place 1.   From Oden’s campaign:   “Disclaimer… I...

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Every other year, the Alabama State Council on the Arts shines a spotlight on exceptional Alabamians and their contributions to arts and creativity in the state, across the nation and beyond. The agency recently announced the names of seven individuals who...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism has announced several upcoming programs and events, including a spring musical, community choir signups and summer day camp registration.  Here is what families and community members need to know.  “Matilda the Musical” set for March 5-7  Cullman Community...

CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported February 23, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.  GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear  Cullman County Sheriff’s Office  Incidents  February 19  domestic violence; CR 1352 possession of marijuana; possession of drug paraphernalia; CR 222  theft of property; CR 788  assault; CR 558  assault;...

CULLMAN, Ala. - Redstone Federal Credit Union is not only celebrating its 75th anniversary, but recently opened its newest branch at 1202 Second Ave. NW (U.S. Highway 31) in Cullman. The grand opening took place on Feb. 12. with a huge turnout. Many stated...