Cherokee County Republican Women Host September Meeting with Guest Speakers
The Cherokee County Republican Women held their regular meeting on Monday, September 8th, at the Cherokee County GOP Headquarters in Centre. WEIS Radio was honored to attend the gathering, which combined introductions, featured speakers, and updates on upcoming events.
The meeting began with a prayer of invocation led by Summer Jones, followed by the group reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Guests in Attendance
Several special guests were recognized early in the meeting.
One of those was Marie Manning, a retired superintendent and respected leader in Alabama education. Manning grew up in rural DeKalb County and graduated from Crossville High School. She went on to Jacksonville State University, earning both a bachelor’s degree in Biology and a master’s degree in Instructional Media. She later continued her studies at the University of Alabama’s Gadsden Center, completing postgraduate work in school administration.
Her career in education has spanned decades and included nearly every role within a school system—classroom teacher, library media specialist, science instructor, assistant principal, and principal. She began her career at Munford High School teaching science and physical education before moving into leadership positions in the Pell City and Ashville schools. Manning later served as Superintendent of Education for St. Clair County, working to oversee district operations and improve education at every level.
Even after retiring as superintendent, she continued her involvement in education, serving 12 years on the St. Clair County Board of Education and representing the county on the Alabama Association of School Boards Board of Directors.
Outside of education, Manning has been active in her community through her church and civic organizations. She is a member of Pell City First Baptist Church, Pell City Rotary Club, The Capitol Club, and others. Her husband, Paul Manning, spent 36 years as a St. Clair County Commissioner, giving her additional opportunities to serve the public through county projects and outreach. The couple has been married 42 years and has one daughter, Leann, and two grandsons, Cade and Barrett.
Also introduced during the meeting were State Senator Andrew Jones and Libby Franklin, the newly named Field Director for U.S. Senator Katie Britt. Both were warmly welcomed by the group.
Judge Matt Fridy: A Focus on the Constitution
The first guest speaker of the evening was Judge Matt Fridy, who currently serves on the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals. Fridy was elected to the court in 2020, but his career in law and public service goes back many years.
A magna cum laude graduate of Cumberland School of Law at Samford University, Fridy served as Executive Editor of the Cumberland Law Review and clerked for United States District Judge Edwin Nelson. Before his election to the bench, he practiced law with Wallace, Jordan, Ratliff & Brandt, LLC, focusing on appellate litigation, constitutional law, campaign finance, and business litigation.
Fridy also served as a staff attorney for both the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals and the Alabama Supreme Court. His experience led him into public service in the Alabama Legislature, where he was elected in 2014 to represent House District 73, which covers parts of Montevallo, Alabaster, Pelham, and Helena.
While in the legislature, Fridy chaired the Committee on the Constitution, Campaigns, and Elections, as well as the Shelby County Legislation Committee. He also served as vice chair of the Judiciary Committee and chaired subcommittees on Civil Law and Healthcare Costs. He was reelected in 2018 and served until 2020, when he stepped down after winning election to the Court of Civil Appeals.
In addition to his judicial role, Judge Fridy has taught business law as an adjunct professor at the University of Montevallo. He is a trustee of the university, a Fellow of the Alabama Law Foundation, and a member of the state Supreme Court’s Standing Committee on the Rules of Appellate Procedure. He also serves on the board of Shelby Emergency Assistance and is active in the Federalist Society.
Speaking to the Republican Women’s group, Judge Fridy focused on the importance of the judicial branch and its role in maintaining the balance of powers in government. He discussed Constitution Day and emphasized the responsibility of each branch of government to remain accountable to the people. He also mentioned his plans to seek reelection, encouraging those in attendance to remain engaged in state and local politics.
Fridy and his wife, Kimberly—whom he met while both were students at the University of Montevallo—live in Pelham with their five children: Jack, Beth, Cate, Emmy, and Mae. They are members of Spring Creek Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Montevallo, where he serves as an elder.
Jared Hudson: Navy SEAL and U.S. Senate Candidate
The second featured speaker of the night was Jared Hudson, a Navy SEAL veteran, business owner, law enforcement officer, and nonprofit leader who recently announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate.
Hudson served as a Navy SEAL sniper and earned multiple commendations for valor during his military service, including awards from the Navy, Marine Corps, and Army. His time in the military instilled a commitment to leadership, accountability, and service that has carried into every part of his life since.
After leaving the Navy, Hudson founded The Shooting Institute (TSI), a training company that provides tactical instruction for law enforcement officers and civilians across the country. His expertise in tactical operations has made him a sought-after trainer nationwide.
Hudson is also the founder and CEO of Covenant Rescue Group (CRG), a nonprofit dedicated to fighting human trafficking and child exploitation. Since its launch in 2019, CRG has been involved in the rescue of more than 2,000 victims and the arrest of more than 300 offenders.
Speaking to the group, Hudson began by sharing that his faith in God guides every aspect of his life. He spoke about his wife, Lauren, and their three daughters, explaining how family, faith, and his military background fuel his desire to serve in the Senate. He said he hopes to work alongside Senator Katie Britt to strengthen Alabama’s voice in Washington. Hudson also fielded questions from the audience, discussing his views on national security, public safety, and the importance of protecting traditional values.
Looking Ahead
After the speakers concluded, the Republican Women members turned to group business and upcoming events. Among the highlights was the announcement of the Cherokee County Republican Dinner, scheduled for September 29th. Tickets are already on sale, and the event is expected to draw a strong turnout.
The September meeting provided attendees the chance to hear directly from leaders in law, education, and politics while also connecting with fellow community members. The Cherokee County Republican Women continue to bring together voices from across the state, offering a platform for discussion and civic engagement at the local level.
