Alabama Ledger December 2023 Print Edition
Merry Christmas
A LABAMA L EDGER December 2023 Northeast Alabama Print Edition www.AlabamaLedger.com 12 Pages Published by The Sports Ledger, LLC
Substitute Teacher Arrested
Watch Out for Romance Scams use many tactics to separate unsuspecting victims of their identities and money. One of the tactics is the romance scam, which in 2022 affected approximately 70,000 victims with reported losses of $1.3 billion, according to a report by the Federal Trade Commission. The criminals create Scammers fake online profiles, usually on social media applications and dating websites, and attempt to build phony emotional attachments until a potential victim is comfortable sending them money. Many scammers find victims by pulling online public information, which they use to do research. “It is important that people are careful of people they meet through social media sites,” Demetrius Hardeman, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office “Many of these scammers are very patient and will wait weeks or months to gain a victim’s trust.” To avoid becoming a victim of romance scams, people should follow these tips: •
By Brandon K. Pierce Alabama Ledger A substitute teacher has been arrested after the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office received complaints about the teacher having a sexual relationship with a student. According to Dekalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, his office investigated the complaints and on Thursday, December 7, 2023, Kristen Jade Ford (age 30) was arrested on the charge of School Employee Engaging in a Sex Act with a Student under the age of 19 years. “Cases involving our children are never easy, but I am thankful for our Investigation Unit and their diligence in resolving
Kristen Jade Ford
A group from Gadsden State Community College recently traveled to Malawi, Africa for a Medical Mission Trip. The group helped set up x-ray equipment at the Blessings Hospital. The group is pictured with members of the medical mission team as well as healthcare professionals from Blessings Hospital in Malawi. Gadsden State representatives include: Macy Taylor, second from left; Rebecca Southern, seventh from left; Ashley Crusey, eighth from left; and Trey Crusey, ninth from left. To read more about the Mission Trip, see page two of this issue of the Alabama Ledger. Medical Mission Trip Submitted Photo
this case so fast,” said Welden. Our children are our future and protecting them is our number one priority “We are very thankful for the cooperation and assistance with the DeKalb County Board of Education and the great working relationship we have with them,” he added.
One Stop Fentanyl Shop Shut Down
By Brandon K. Pierce Alabama Ledger Authorities in DeKalb County have shut down what Sheriff Nick Welden dubbed as a “one stop fentanyl shop.” According to a press release from Welden’s office, “the defendants cut, packaged, sold and delivered their products with no concern to public safety.” Welden said that agents obtained a Search Warrant for a residence on Alabama Highway 75 in Sylvania. Upon entry, authorities found nine Adults and one juvenile in the residence. One of the adults was found unresponsive and Agents acted quickly and administered four doses of Nar-Can to the unresponsive subject. The DeKalb Ambulance service was called, and the individual was taken to Dekalb Regional Medical Center and treated for an overdose. During a search of the residence, law enforcement officials found a trafficking amount of Fentanyl, as well as methamphetamine, marijuana, controlled prescription medication, drug paraphernalia, two pistols, and an undisclosed amount of US Currency. As a result, the following arrests were made on various charges that include Trafficking in Fentanyl, UPOCS X2, UPOM 1st, UPODP, Resisting Arrest, Chemical Endangerment, and Loitering at a Drug House. Caiden Bryan Gore (age 21 of Fyffe), Jesse James Outlaw (age 22 of Sylvania) and Richard Madison-Noel Hudson (age 25 of Fort Payne) were all
charged with Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st, Chemical Endangerment of Exposing a Child, Resisting Arrest, Loitering, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2). Amber Dawn Cleveland (age 32 of Sylvania) was charged with Chemical Endangerment of Exposing a Child, Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2). Haley Nicole Smith (age 24 of Gadsden), Dakota Rhea Orear (age 27 of Scottsboro), Jesse Maurice Munguia (age 19 of Rainsville), Mauricio Michael Munguia (age 18 of Rainsville) were charged with Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Loitering, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2) and Chemical Endangerment of Exposing a Child. Welden added that warrants will be obtained for the subject that was taken to Dekalb Regional. DHR was called and responded because of the juvenile child at the residence. “Let us be clear: These poisonings are part of a strategic maneuver by the cartels, and it must be stopped," said Welden. We will remain committed to doing all that we can to combat the fentanyl crisis in our area and holding those accountable who traffic this deadly poison.”
Never send money to anyone you have only communicated with online or by phone. Be careful what you post and make public online.
Representatives with the Neighborhood Bridges organization in Boaz recently presented a $1,000 contribution to Snead State Community College to use for the Parson Closet and Parson Pantry. On hand for the presentation were, from left, Mina Butler, Rose Moody, and Jamie Bliss, all with Neighborhood Bridges, Snead State First Lady Janet Whitmore, Snead State Instructor Caitlin Dickerson, Gary Chumley with Neighborhood Bridges, and Snead State President Dr. Joe Whitmore. Submitted Photo $1,000 Contribution New Brochure about Things to See and Do on I-22
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• When starting a new relationship, take it slow, and ask lots of questions. • Be alert to those who seem too perfect or quickly ask you to leave a dating service or social media site to communicate by other means. • Beware of those who want to isolate you from friends and family. •
The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA) recently released a new brochure highlighting the various attractions, waterfalls, murals, festivals and hotels/motels located along I-22 in North Alabama. The brochure is a 4-page handy guide to some of the best places to visit, festivals to experience, must see waterfalls and murals as well as accommodations found along or within a short drive off I-22. Each listing contains a detailed description, address, phone number and website so travelers can easily start planning their next adventure. “I-22 serves as a Birmingham to Memphis expressway, cutting across
rural areas in northwestern Alabama. This stretch through North Alabama may appear rural, but there are plenty of things to see and do, so we want to encourage everyone to stop, stretch and explore! We hope the new brochure will serve as a handy guide to what is offered in the North Alabama region along I-22 and will encourage those traveling through the area to return for more visits,” said AMLA President and CEO Tami Reist. To learn more about the brochure visit the website www.northalabama.org, or visit the AMLA office, which is located at 402 Sherman Street SE in Decatur. More information may be requested by calling 800.648.5381.
Never send or share inappropriate photos or financial information that could later be used to extort you. Be suspicious if the individual promises to meet in person but then never does. “Many of the criminals
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involved with romance scams are part of an organized crime group,” Hardeman said. “People who suspect they have become victims of romance scams can make a report to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.” To report romance scams or other types of online crimes, victims can make a report at the website www.ic3.gov/.
Courtesy of AMLA
I-22 Brochure
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PAGE 2A December 2023
Albertville High School Theatre took home the Best in Show Award at the recent Walter Trumbauer competition for their performance of “The Fifth Sun”. In addition to Best in Show, Albertville was awarded Best Set, Best Costumes, Best Tech, All-Star Cast and Best Supporting Cast. The play will now move forward to the state festival in December. Aggie Theatre Receives Best in Show Award Submitted Photo
Mission trip to Malawi Gadsden State Instructors and Student Participate in Life-Changing Trip In the heart of southeastern Africa lies Malawi, a landlocked country known for its warm-hearted people, breathtaking landscapes and the challenges that come with being one of the world’s least developed countries. This is the backdrop for a story about a group from Gadsden State Community College who embarked on a life-changing mission trip to a country in need of hope and compassion. “Everyone on this trip was positively affected,” said Ashley Crusey, director of the Radiography Program at Gadsden State. “We grew as people – personally, spiritually and in ways we didn’t expect to grow. It was a very moving experience.” Crusey was joined on the trip by her husband, Trey; coworker, Rebecca Southern, director of Gadsden State’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program; and Macy Taylor, a DMS student on track to graduate in December. This is Southern’s second mission trip this year. In July, she volunteered at East African Christian College in Rwanda, where she taught students and instructors how to utilize donated ultrasound equipment. Upon her return to the U.S., Southern learned that the Chikondi Health Foundation in Wetumpka was going to take an imagery mission trip to Malawi in the fall. The organization received a donation of medical equipment funded by Rotary Clubs in Indiana and California through the Giving Tree Medical Charity. The donation included portable digital x-ray equipment, an ultrasound machine, EKG machine, two IV pumps and ventilator. Experts were needed to go on the trip to install the equipment and teach health professionals how to use it. Southern quickly reached out to Crusey to see if she could help. “Why would I say no? I knew it was going to be a wonderful experience,” said Crusey, whose husband agreed to go on the trip to assist with building projects at the hospital and around the campus. “I’m so thankful that my husband was able to make the trip. I’m happy that I was able to share this experience with him. He was so useful in so many ways. He never stopped working. He was always doing something to help.” In Malawi, Crusey installed the x-ray equipment and trained medical staff on how to use it. She took 60 x-rays of 30 patients during the trip. “Because Blessings Hospital didn’t have x-ray equipment, they were having to refer their patients to other hospitals,” she said. “This delayed patient care. Now they have their own equipment so they can serve their patients in a timely manner at their facility.” Southern and Taylor spent their time setting up the ultrasound and instructing a doctor and three medical officers how to do bedside abdomen, pelvic and obstetric ultrasound. “They were very interested and receptive to learning,” Taylor said. “They were like sponges. They wanted to soak it all in and know about how everything works.” They saw 75 patients that week with Southern performing echocardiograms on 15 patients. Taylor said she was introduced by a cook at the hospital to his pregnant daughter, who she scanned and determined to be in need of a c-section. The baby was born four hours later. Another woman was pregnant with her fourth child and was told she was 34 weeks into her pregnancy. After Taylor scanned her, it was realized that the woman was dilated and the baby was expected in just a few days. “It goes to show the importance of ultrasound,” she said. “A woman needs to know what’s going on with her body and when to expect a big life-changing moment like giving birth.” During their time in Malawi, the group experienced the culture and the people. “It was very eye-opening when we saw their living conditions,” Crusey said. “They have nothing but four walls for a house. They have one well that provides water for an entire community. Babies, who were maybe 2 or 3 years old, were doing chores and walking around without shoes.” Taylor said the interaction with the Malawian people changed her life. “Being with them gave me a new perspective about how lucky we are to have the healthcare we have in the United States,” she said “The people of Malawi are so kind and grateful. They just take joy in the simple things. They really do the best they can with very limited resources.” The group also took time to go on a once-in-a-lifetime safari by land and water in the Liwonde National Park. There, they saw lions, elephants, baboons, bush deer, hippos and crocodiles. “It was amazing to be so close to the wildlife,” Southern said. “We didn’t just see wild animals in the national park. One morning, I walked out of the hut I was staying in, and there was a hippo in the water right in front of me. It was a very unique experience.” At the conclusion of their two-week trip, Southern said she is grateful that she was able to expose a student to international travel and the opportunity to serve in a third world country. “It was a dream come true to be able to take Macy on this trip,” she said. “She was phenomenal. She did everything at the hospital. I was just there to support her. “Seeing all of this through Macy’s eyes was the best part for me. It’s like taking your kid to Disney World. You know you’re going to enjoy it but it’s a whole new level of fun when you get to see your kid enjoy it.” Taylor said going on the trip with her instructor and mentor was a blessing. “The coolest thing to me was getting to know Mrs. Southern as a human. She’s more than an instructor,” she said. “I got to know her on my level; as an equal. She knows a lot, which can be intimidating but I saw firsthand how nice and loving she is to everyone she meets.” Southern and Crusey said they’d like to go on more mission trips with students and instructors from all of Gadsden State’s Health Science Programs. “Medical mission work is an opportunity to grow stronger connections, to collaborate and to share ideas,” Southern said. “It’s very rewarding work. I get as much out of these trips as the people we serve.”
Photo Courtesy of Gadsden State
A group from Gadsden State Community College enjoyed a safari during their downtime on a medical mission trip in Malawi. Pictured with their safari guide are, from left, Ashley Crusey, Rebecca Southern and Macy Taylor.
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PAGE 3A December 2023
Albertville BOE Removes Unnecessary E-Learning Days Albertville Schools
News and Announcements GERMAN APPLIANCE MAKER COMING TO ALABAMA - Miele, the world’s leading manufacturer of premium domestic appliances, has selected Opelika as the location for a U.S. manufacturing hub that will employ hundreds of workers. According to a press release from Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, Miele is launching a long-term growth project that ultimately will create several hundred jobs and see the company build a major production facility serving multiple business units as its U.S. business expands. Initially, Miele plans to occupy an existing facility in Opelika to jump start production of appliances, creating over 150 jobs by 2026. In Phase II of the growth project, Miele plans to build a large facility that will serve as the company’s major U.S. production center, creating an additional workforce by 2030. Miele is the world’s leading manufacturer of premium domestic appliances including cooking, baking and steam-cooking appliances, refrigeration products, coffee makers, dishwashers and laundry and floor care products. SPRING REGISTRATION - Registration at Gadsden State Community College for the upcoming spring semester is ongoing through Jan. 12. Classes begin Jan. 8 for the full spring semester and spring mini 1 term. Classes begin March 1 for the spring mini 2 term. Visit www.gadsdenstate.edu and click on the link to “ONEACCS” at the top of the page to begin the registration process. To be admitted, go to gadsdenstate.edu/apply. For more info regarding admission or registration, email admissions@gadsdenstate.edu. Also Gadsden State Community College is extending its Buy One Get One Free Scholarship program to the Spring Semester for members of the Chambers of Commerce in Calhoun, Cherokee and Etowah counties. ELECTION DATES SET FOR SENATE DISTRICT 9 - Governor Kay Ivey has set special election dates for Alabama Senate District 9. This seat was previously held by Clay Scofield, who resigned on October 30, 2023. The special primary election is set for Tuesday, January 9, 2024. The special primary runoff, if necessary, is set for Tuesday, February 6, 2024. The special general election will be on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. Senate District 9 represents portions of Blount, Madison and Marshall Counties. EAGLE AWARENESS WEEKEND - America’s national symbol, the bald eagle, will be celebrated in January and February when Lake Guntersville State Park hosts the annual Eagle Awareness Weekends, giving wildlife enthusiasts a chance to learn more about the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The popular Friday through Sunday event attracts people of all ages from all over the United States who come here to spend a winter getaway in one of Alabama’s most popular state parks immersed in nature-based learning. In 2024, Eagle Awareness will be held every weekend from January 19 through February 4. The 2024 dates are Jan. 19-21, Jan. 26-28 and Feb. 2-4. Activities get underway at 5:30 p.m. Friday, with activities throughout the day on Saturday and wraps up Sunday following the 9 a.m. guided field trips. Sessions typically fill up quickly and participants are encouraged to reserve a weekend by calling 256-571-5440 for lodge reservations or 256-571-5455 for campground reservations. Lodging packages start at $348 and include lodging, two breakfasts, one dinner, a welcome packet, VIP access to presentations, discounts at the restaurant and gift shop, photo opportunities with birds of prey, activities for children, engagement with featured sponsors and one-on-one access with the naturalists. Day passes will be sold first come, first serve each Saturday morning of Eagle Awareness Weekends. These will include the guided tours to the eagle nests and live bird programs only. A day pass is $25/adult and $10/child under 12 years old. For a complete list of scheduled events, speakers and lodging packages, visit https://www.alapark.com/EagleAwarenessWeekends. US POVERTY RATE - The U.S. official poverty rate as measured by the American Community Survey (ACS), was 12.6% in 2022 but the rate was significantly different for the nation’s oldest and youngest populations, according to a recent Census Bureau report. The ACS shows that in 2022 the child (people under age 18) poverty rate was 16.3%, 3.7 percentage points higher than the overall rate. But the poverty rate among those age 65 and over was 10.9%, 1.6 percentage points lower than the overall rate. The poverty rate for those ages 18 to 64 was 11.7%. Although lower than the child poverty rate, the poverty rate of those 65 and older rose 0.7 percentage points while the child poverty rate decreased by 0.7 percentage points from 2021 to 2022 — the first time since 2018 the rates changed in opposite directions. Twice before (2009 and 2010), the reverse happened; that is, child poverty went up and poverty among those age 65 and over went down. MORE EVENING COURSES - Gadsden State Community College is offering more flexibility for students in Cherokee County and the surrounding area by offering evening classes on its campus in Centre. The new evening course offerings will be available in the spring semester, which will begin Jan. 8. Spring registration is currently open at gadsdenstate.edu/register. “These classes are available to our current students and dual enrollment students,” she said. “All of the credits earned in these classes will go towards a student’s credential at Gadsden State or it will seamlessly transfer to a four-year university for students.” Some of the evening classes include: English Composition II, Microcomputer Applications, Precalculus Algebra, Fundamentals of Oral Communication, Human Anatomy and Physiology II, and U.S. History II The courses are also offered during the day. Other daytime academic courses offered at Gadsden State Cherokee are General Microbiology, Introduction to Humanities, Intermediate College Algebra, Orientation to College, General Psychology and Human Growth and Development. Programs that can be completed at Gadsden State Cherokee are Nursing and the Poultry Science 2+2 Program with Auburn University. Students living in the following bordering counties in Georgia are eligible for instate tuition at Gadsden State Cherokee: Floyd, Chattooga, Polk, Carroll, Heard and Paulding. For more info visit www.gadsdenstate.edu/cherokee. PLANE CRASH - A plane crash occurred at approximately 11:57 a.m. Monday, December 4, 2023 in Limestone County near Elkmont. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was notified and Alabama State Troopers were also assisting to securing the scene at the time of the press release. Nothing further is available as the investigation is ongoing.
and expenditures totaled $6,186,360.60. The BOE approved fundraising requests and a surplus sports medicine sideline cart to be sold to Arab City Schools. Additionally, a surplus of 150 retired Aggie Band uniforms will be placed on Gov Deals at a minimum bid of $10,000. An out of state field trip for Albertville Elementary third grade students was approved at the meeting. Students will be going to the Tennessee Aquarium in February. Additionally, the board members approved the deletion of the Use of Board Facilities Manual Policy. An updated version will be added as a procedure. The following personnel actions were approved at the November meeting. • Nancy Satterfield, a teacher at AMS, is on a medical leave of absence due to an on the job injury. This is effective from Oct. 4, 2023 - Dec. 27, 2023. • Walter Van Sims is retiring as an ACS bus driver, effective January 1, 2024. • Natasha Calhoun is resigning as a 12-month bookkeeper at APS, effective November 3. • Danett Taylor is resigning as a 12-month human resources clerk at the CO, effective November 21, 2023. • Zoraima Padilla is transferring from 10-month attendance/ enrollment secretary to 12-month enrollment office receptionist/secretary (new position) at ACS, effective December. 1. • Tammy Patterson is transferring from 10-month bookkeeper at AKPK to 12-month human resources clerk at the CO, effective November 29, 2023. • Martha Miguel Juan will be a 12-month enrollment office receptionist/secretary (new position), effective January 3, 2024. • Amanda Walker will be an elementary teacher at AES (class reduction unit, new position), effective December 11, 2023. • Ashlee Mahan, 12-month bookkeeper at AKPK, is replacing Tammy Patterson, effective January 3, 2024. • Autumn Fox will be a softball assistant at AMS, replacing Erika Amos, effective November 29, 2023. • Carin Johnson has been given temporary assignment of curriculum duties of the retiring curriculum director. She will to be paid $6,000, effective January 1 to June 30, 2024. • Kristi Rains has been given temporary assignment of curriculum duties of the retiring curriculum director. She will be paid $6,000, effective January 1, to June 30, 2024. • Donna Tabor will work the after-school program three days per week for 1.5 hours per day, to be paid $45 per hour by ARP ESSER State Reserve
Funds, effective November 2, 2023 - May 23, 2024. • Nancy Satterfield, requested sick leave be reinstated from October 4, 2023 - November 3, 2023, due to an injury on the job. • Jimmy Umphrey will receive a supplement of $7,700 to perform additional duties for transportation for the after-school program during the 2023-2024 school year. • Justin Price will be a tennis assistant at AHS, to be paid $2,000 by tennis boosters, effective Nov. 29, 2023 - May 31, 2024. • Brittanee Johnson will manage the concession stand for the Marshall County Basketball Tournament and will be paid $1,000 by AHS basketball, effective January 13-20 2024. Timothy Duckett will serve as a trainer and assist with health classes. He is not to exceed 28 hours per week and the pay will not exceed $36,000, effective January 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024. • Jonathan Bright will provide services as a boys basketball assistant at AHS, to be paid and not to exceed $3,000 by the BOE, effective November 29, 2023 - February 14, 2024. • Jordan Younghouse will provide services as tennis assistant at AHS, to be paid and not to exceed $2,000 by tennis boosters, effective January 8, 2024 - May 31, 2024. • Richard Smith, Jr., will provide services as a public announcer for the Marshall County Basketball Tournament, to be paid and not to exceed $300 by AHS basketball, effective January 15-20, 2024. • Mike Gentry will provide services as the official scorebook keeper for the Marshall County Basketball Tournament, to be paid and not to exceed $300 by AHS basketball, effective January 15-20, 2024. • Timothy Henderson will provide services as a DJ for the winter dance at AMS, to be paid and not to exceed $300 by AMS, effective December 1, 2023. • Tyler Peek, Daniel Pall and Mary Fletcher will provide services as accompanists for VocalPoint band for the 2024 competition show, to be paid and not to exceed $1,800 each by VocalPoint, effective January 1, 2024 - May 20, 2024. • Kenneth Stewart will provide services as band organizer and logistics coordinator for the 2024 competition show, to be paid and not to exceed $1,000 each by VocalPoint, effective January 1, 2024 - May 20, 2024. • Wendell Smith will provide services as a piano tuner for the AHS band, to be paid and not to exceed $500 by AHS, effective November 29, 2023 - May 30, 2024. • William Griswold will provide services as a clinician for the AHS A Capella Ensemble and VocalEase, to be paid and not to exceed $900 by AHS, effective January 1, 2024 - February 29, 2024. • Hersel Cremeans will provide services as a judge for the Diamond Classic, to be paid and not to exceed $1,400 by AHS, effective February 1-5, 2024. The next regular monthly Albertville City School Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 12.
Superintendent Dr. Bart Reeves announced at the November 2023 school board meeting that the system will soon complete its academic calendar for the next two years. The calendar committee, which includes representatives from each school and the central office, is in the final stages of creating two proposed calendars for the 2024- 2025 and 2025-2026 school years. All employees of Albertville City Schools will vote on the calendars prior to Christmas break. The calendars chosen will then be presented at the Jan. 16 board meeting for approval. Once approved, the calendars will be posted to the system website and on social media. To maximize student days, a decision was made to remove E-Learning days from the calendars. Dr. Reeves reminded the board that E-Learning days could still be necessary for state assessments due to state monitoring requirements, school building capacity and coordination. Dr. Reeves also announced at the meeting that Albertville will be moving away from the staggered start approach when school starts back in August 2024 for all schools except for Albertville Kindergarten and Pre-K. Reeves said doing so is to place emphasis on protecting instructional time and to maximize the number of student days. The board voted to change the date of an E-Learning Day originally scheduled in March for some students at Albertville High School. Originally slated for March 12, juniors at Albertville High School will now take the ACT on April 9. Per the Alabama State Department of Education Student Assessment Department, the date was changed due to Albertville’s spring break falling in the middle of ACT accommodations and the makeup window. April 9 will now be an E-Learning Day for freshmen, sophomores, and seniors. All students will attend school on March 12. Additionally the board approved the financials and reconciliations for September. The beginning fund balance for September was $47,511,235.04. The ending fund balance was $54,472,269.49. The general fund balance was $19,403,184.51. Revenue for the month totaled $9,832,883.02, and expenditures totaled $11,069,872.38. They also approved the financials and reconciliations for October. The beginning fund balance for October was $54,472,269.49. The ending fund balance was $53,404,589.95. The general fund balance was $18,711,824.30. Revenue for the month totaled $5,122,991.70,
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Alabama Ledger www.AlabamaLedger.com D eath Notices The following Death Notices are published as a courtesy of the Alabama Ledger and local funeral homes. To include more information, or a photo of your loved one, in a future edition of the Alabama Ledger contact us at 256-506-7368. You can also find more obit information on the Sand Mountain Obits Facebook Page. Adams Brown Service Funeral Home Ernestine Peters, age 62, of Scottsboro Edgar Wayne Hill, age 72, of Albertville Delbert Wayne Coe, age 87, of Albertville Rachel Hathcoat Sparks, age 91, of Albertville Billie Jo Slaten, age 87, of Albertville Stewart Owens Howell, age 50, of Albertville Wanda Gail Watkins, age 50, of Albertville Hunter Michael Carr, passed away at age 30 Waymon Arthell Brown, age 92, of Douglas Sarah Jane Standford, age 80, of Boaz John Wayne Gable, age 74, of Boaz Dennis Wright, age 54, of Albertville Bobbie Ann Bopp Colvin, age 87, of Albertville Albertville Memorial Funeral Home Bonnie Rose Stewart, age 78, of Horton Donald D. Wilkerson, age 78, of Boaz Sharon Gay Nix Mays, age 80, of Albertville Angela "Anna" LaShaye Upton, age 29, of Horton Amber Lynn Huffman passed away at age 30 Claud William Wilson Sr., age 79, of Albertville Rebecca Faye McLeod, age 61, of Albertville Thomas Dale Mince, age 79, of Boaz Doris Elaine Gass, age 81, of Albertville Shelly Heider, age 63, of Albertville Burt Funeral Home in Fort Payne John Harrison Baxter, age 36, of Mentone Gwendolyn Joyce Owens, age 76, of Fort Payne Tim Traffanstedt, age 75, of Valley Head James Kenneth Henderson, age 54, of Cedar Bluff Johnny James Thompson, age 62, of Fort Payne Carr Funeral Home in Boaz Janis Jarvis, age 76, of Horton Carr Funeral Home in Guntersville Gloria Davis Champion passed away at age 74 Joshua Mason Coker passed away at age 38 David Jody Fogel passed away at age 76 Gloria Violet Cunningham, age 94, formerly of Guntersville Larry Wayne Wilson, age 70, of Grant Collier-Butler Funeral Home William Allen Creel, age 88, of Boaz C.W. Wilbert Brewer, age 96, of Boaz Rev. Harold Woodruff Wells, age 90, of Rainbow City Sarah Ann Lucrecia Wilburn, age 81, of Rainbow City Jane Leatherbury Newman, age 88, of Gadsden William Matt "Bill" Firestone, age 84, of Gadsden Joseph Edward Willingham, Jr., age 75, of Gadsden Lessie Mae Kitchens, age 95, of Gadsden Shelia Faye Robinson, age 69, of Gadsden John William McCullars, age 80, of Rainbow City Edward Lee "Buddy" Heath, age 87, of Hokes Bluff James Edward Leach III, age 71, of Gadsden David Dewayne Johnson passed away at age 62 Justin Edward Patrick White, age 43, of Gadsden Sandra Elaine Taft, age 76, of Southside Lana Loconto, age 74, of Gadsden Leslie "Bubba" Fortney Kirby III, age 71, of Southside Jerry Wayne Broccolo, age 79, of Gadsden Clifford Eugene Ausborn, Jr., age 87, of Gadsden Billy Fred Freeman, age 89, of Leesburg Collinsville Funeral Home John Kevin Norris, age 36, of Fort Payne Cornerstone Funeral Chapel in Ider Christopher Douglas Smith, age 27, of Pisgah Dilmer "Junior" Claudie Hilley, Jr., age 78, of Pisgah Carey Lee Harden, age 52, of Gadsden Patricia Sullivan, age 84, of Gadsden Jimmie Ray Reynolds, age 68, of Piedmont Crestwood Funeral Home in Gadsden Richard Dale "Dick" Jones, age 83, of Glencoe Harley Doyle Matthews, age 80, of Rainbow City Ida "Imogene" Martin, age 95, of Glencoe Vernon "Bud" Almath Parris, age 79, of Hokes Bluff Catherine Stanford Hathaway, age 95, of Trussville John William Griffin, Sr., passed away at age 74 Helen Renae Richardson, age 53, of Gadsden Crossville Memorial Chapel C.B. Bolton, age 92, of Crossville Maria Guadalupe Garcia, age 64, of Albertville Almous Gray Calhoun, age 91, of Crossville Etowah Memorial Chapel Lavoy "Sonny" Conn, age 81, of Gadsden Barbara Free Wallace, age 81, of Glencoe Bernice Willette Peppers, age 87, of Boaz Kristi Works McDaniel, age 44, of Southside Jerry Dale Brown, age 61, of Attalla Billy Main, age 64, of Attalla Janie Cleland Hale, age 75, of Boaz Willodean "Peggy" Brock, age 92, formerly of Cullman Sandra Kay Henderson, age 64, Higdon Billie O'Dell Stephenson, age 90, of Ider Evelyn Bennett Price, age 71, of Ider
PAGE 4A December 2023
Geraldine Funeral Home Keegan Isaiah Hatley, age 21, of Geraldine Helen June Rider Williams, age 87, of Geraldine Guntersville Memorial Chapel Kenneth Anderson Jex, age 76, of Guntersville Curtis David Bonds, passed away at age 90 Doris Cooley Edmonds, age 86, of Warrenton Carmella Amelia "Ella" Lillo Hall, passed away at age 102 Kerby Funeral Home in Henagar Helen R. Tucker Phillips, age 78, of Henagar Mildred Louise Garren, age 98, of Scottsboro Marshall Memorial Funeral Home Linda Ann Strickland, age 73, of Guntersville Jimmie Floyd Stephens, age 77, Hooks, Texas McRae Funeral Home in Boaz Trennon Kain Black, age 14, of Boaz Homer L. Bigham, age 87, of Boaz Robert "Rob" Clark Jr., age 35, of Boaz Pamela Martin Rhoades, age 63, of Boaz Bobbie Lou Maltbie, age 83, of Boaz James Mitchell Bruce, age 41, of Albertville Terry Lynn Black, age 64, of Albertville Morgan Funeral Chapel and Crematory Gloria Maria Revera, age 86, of Gadsden Shaina Marie Becker, age 25, of St. Clair County Michael Benton Bynum passed away at age 72 Peter Carr Phillips, age 57, of Coronado Ronald Dorough, age 65, of Steele David Chase Quarrels, age 21, of Rainbow City Mildred "Minnie" Halmark Holderfield, 32, of Birmingham Marion Farley, age 78, of Attalla Joshua "Teddy" Van Mims, age 43, of Gallant Holly Mack Jenkins, age 39, of Gadsden Colton Trevor Maloy, age 24, of Hokes Bluff Martha Jane Dorsett, age 83, of Rainbow City Murl "Rudy" Rudolph Moore, age 87, of Ashville Charles Dennis Osborn, Jr., age 82, of Steele Joseph "Nick" Davis, age 54, of Gallant Robert Stephens, age 62, of Gadsden Sally Chumley Pritchard, 91, of Attalla Darrell Anthony Martin, age 63, of Attalla Alice Faye Brewer, age 83, of Rainbow City Randall Denton Patterson, age 79, of Boaz Carlos "Chuck" Leon Leiser passed away at age 51 Michael Phillip Wise, age 66, of Attalla Marcella Jane Carter, age 78, of Ashville Janice Kilgore Peterson, age 76, of Gadsden Perry Funeral Home In Centre Gloria "Nanny" Dale Bradley, age 69, of Cedar Bluff Kathy Elizabeth Steele Kiser, age 69, of Cedar Bluff Gregory Victor Hedstrom, age 76, of Cedar Bluff Richard Gaddison, age 66, of Centre Annie Pearl Cheek, age 87, of Gaylesville Floyd Daniel Brackett, age 72, of Centre Judy Gail Sanford Hindman, age 69, of Centre Barbara Ann Wesley, age 85, of Centre Betty Jean Hulsey, age 80, of Centre Elizabeth Susie Williams, age 69, of Piedmont Ronald "Ray" King, age 73, of Centre Mary Elizabeth Bishop, age 83, of Centre Darren Isaiah Higgins, age 28, of Centre Rainsville Funeral Home Jimmy McAllister, age 64, of Rainsville Margaret Downer Hodge, age 87, of Rainsville Sandy Gudger Alldredge, age 75, of Scottsboro Shelia Dian Argo, passed away at age 67 Jason Marty Orlando Underwood, age 45, of Henagar Eddy Anderson, age 80, of Pisgah Barbara Lyles, age 81, of Albertville Billy Galloway, age 77, of Rainsville Gale Doufexis, age 85, of Rainsville Tony Johnson, age 64, of Rainsville Bonnie Wilborn, age 84, of Sylvania Cameron "Buck" McGill, age 48, of Fort Payne Section Funeral Home Jerry Ann Massey, passed away at age 82 Berlon Parrish, age 90, of Scottsboro Dorothy Nell Scott, age 85, of Scottsboro Snead Funeral Home Billy Wayne Davis, age 89, of Mt. Hebron Community Ida V. Kerr Mason, age 91, of Owens Cross Roads Michael Ray Whittington, age 55, of Wynnville Community Ronald Lee Webb, age 72, of Susan Moore Wilson Funeral Home in Fort Payne Martha Ann White, age 66, of Rainsville Brenda Johnson, age 62, of Chicago, IL Shenna James Stephens, age 65, of Gaylesville Timothy Harold Marshall, age 63, of Fort Payne Dana Hugh Traylor, age 34, formerly of Mentone Anita Keef Shirley, age 72, of Valley Head Benjamin Stephen Booth, age 89, of Mentone C.O. "Scooter" Clark, age 93, of Valley Head Jimmy Ray Wallace, age 70, of Fort Payne Susan Elaine Maginness, age 67, of Fort Payne Billy Ray Bethune, age 89, of Fort Payne Doris Jean McNew, age 82, of Fort Payne Artist Eugene "Art" Gunter, age 78, of Fort Payne Ralph Clinton Sutton, age 86, of Valley Head W.T. Wilson Funeral Home Dexter Linn Gentry, age 56, of Grove Oak Mary Lou Brown, age 90, of Fyffe Casey Allen McWhorter, age 49, of Albertville Johnny Albert Armstrong, age 76, of Hanceville Robbi Nell Haney, age 84, of Henagar Roberta Ann Harper, age 85, of Valley Head Bro. Talmadge Eugene Lambert, age 82, of Asbury Ora Ellen Garmon, age 90, of Centre Tommie Lee Vines, age 85, of Centre Janice Lynn Kerr, age 61, of Centre Raymond Lee Hill, age 80, of Centre Maxine Armstrong, age 85, of Centre Jeffery Lance Barkley, age 48, of Centre
By Brandon K. Pierce Alabama Ledger A man is dead after being hit by a vehicle in Fort Payne near an intersection that is known as the North-Y. According to Fort Payne Assistant Police Chief Lee Traylor, the accident occurred on December 5, 2023 at approximately 10:00 a.m. He said that the Fort Payne Police Department responded to a vehicle accident involving a pedestrian at the intersection of Gault Ave North and Greenhill Boulevard. The preliminary investigation indicated that a 2022 Freightliner truck had turned northbound onto Gault Avenue when a pedestrian, identified as Cameron Mitchell McGill, age 48 of Fort Payne, was struck. Authorities reported that McGill stepped in front of the truck and the driver was unable to avoid striking him. McGill was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities added that the accident is still under investigation. Pedestrian Fatality In Fort Payne Domingo Miguel Juan, age 56, of Fort Payne Rheanetta Haymon Heard, age 83, of Sylvania Misty Lynn Randolph, passed away at age 49 Wanda Faye Wilborn, age 72, of Fort Payne James Buron Schaufelberger, age 53, of Crossville Lisa Kathryn Tumlin Badgett, age 68, of Fyffe David Nye Gifford, age 77, of Section Erby Jason Moore, age 48, of Albertville Willene Fowler Mayes, age 92, of Grove Oak Nancy Mae Smith, age 76, of Fort Payne John Leonard Saffels, age 80, of Fyffe Dick W. Thompson, age 86, of Fort Payne Edith Gail Jenkins, age 87, of Fyffe Jimmy Wayne Godwin, age 67, of Grove Oak Cullman Man Killed A single-vehicle crash on Thursday, Dec. 7, has claimed the life of a Cullman man. According to authorities, Mark S. Haymon, age 67, was fatally injured when the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 that he was driving left the roadway, struck a road sign, utility pole and house. After the impact, the Chevrolet caught fire. Haymon was not using a seat belt at the time of crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash occurred approximately one mile east of Vinemont, in Cullman County. Nothing further is available as State Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate the incident. Man Dies in Crash A single-vehicle crash on Sunday, December 3, 2023 claimed the life of an Attalla man. According to authorities, Michael P. Wise, age 66, was fatally injured when the 1988 Chevrolet C2500 he was driving left the roadway and struck a tree. Wise was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash occurred on Sand Valley Road, approximately five miles north of Attalla. Pedestrian Killed One person is dead after allegedly pointing a weapon during an altercation with the Oneonta Police Department. Special Agents with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) have launched an investigation into the officer‐involved shooting, which occurred this past November. According to a press release, officers with the Oneonta Police Department responded to a call near the 1000 Block of Sand Valley Road in Oneonta after receiving a report that someone was beating on doors at local residences. Officers reportedly made contact with the individual, who has been identified as 32-year-old John Joseph Hampton. Authorities said that Hampton fled on foot before being tased and starting a fight with the officers. Hampton brandished a weapon and was eventually shot and killed by officers. One officer was shot and airlifted to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. No additional information was made available as the investigation is ongoing. Police Officers Shoot and Kill Suspect A single-vehicle crash involving a pedestrian at approximately 5:12 p.m. on Monday, November 20, has claimed the life of a Boaz woman. According to authorities Amber L. Huffman, 30, was fatally injured when she was struck by the 2008 Honda Civic driven by Christian A. Doggett, 24, of Guntersville. Huffman was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash occurred on Alabama 75 near the 45 mile marker, approximately two miles north of Snead, in Blount County. No additional information was made available as the investigation is ongoing.
Virginia Noojin Carr, age 94, of Attalla Ruby Gaskin Maise, age 94, of Boaz Johnny Owens, passed away at age 70 George Lamar Morton, age 60, of Attalla
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PAGE 5A December 2023
Busy November At Rainsville PD
The Rainsville Police recently reported several arrests in what authorities say was a busy November. At approximately 6:12 a.m. on November 17, 2023 patrolmen with the Rainsville Police Department, as well as units from the Henager and Sylvania Police Department Departments and Dekalb County Sheriff;s, office responded to the 200 block of Carlyle Road in Rainsville for reports of shots being fired into a home. By the time the officers arrived on scene the shooter had left. However, officers found several holes in the side of the residence and were able to track down the location of where the shots came from in an adjacent field. Evidence from the scene led authorities to a home on County Road 570, where police arrested Walter Byron Thomas, age 33 of Rainsville, and charged him with Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Dwelling. Thomas was carried to Dekalb County Jail.
Also on November 17 authorities arrested Rick Daniel Steven Willkie for the charges of Dissemination/Display of Child Pornography after a grand jury indicted him on those charges. Detectives with Rainsville Police Department began investigating Willkie for those charges back in June of 2023. Willkie was found to have those warrants on a traffic stop. Willkie was released on a $175,000 bond. A day earlier, on November 16, the Rainsville Police went to the 700 block of Shankles Road to serve warrants on Jacob Dalton Timmons. Once the officers arrived at the residence, Mr. Timmons was arrested for an outstanding Domestic Violence warrant. After an investigation at the residence, narcotics and other evidence was seized. Warrants were issued for two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. More charges may follow.
able to revive her with Narcan, and the female was transported to the hospital via Dekalb Ambulance Service. Staying in the hotel room with the female was Caiden Gore, age 21 of Fyffe. Police found Gore to be in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia. Gore was charged with Tampering with Physical Evidence, Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On November 15 a Patrolman with Rainsville Police Department was sitting at the red light at the intersection of Highways 35 and 75 when he witnessed a vehicle driving eastbound on Highway 35 in the westbound lane. The vehicle struck another vehicle head on at the light, but the officer was able stop the car before it left the scene. After an investigation, Rodney Lucas Avery Murphey, age 19 of Valley Head was arrested and charged with DUI after driving under the influence of alcohol. No injuries were reported in the accident.
Additionally,
on
November Kristie Nicole Cobb was arrested on charges of Theft by Deception and Forgery. Earlier in the month, detectives with Rainsville Police Department began an investigation into Cobb after someone came forward with a complaint against her. They claimed that Cobb had sold them a car using the fake name Samantha Oates. After the victim bought the car, the car was repossessed because Cobb wasn’t 16, making the payments. She sold the car before it could be repossessed by the auto dealer. Cobb was released on a $20,000 Bond. Authorities are asking anyone who may have been sold something on Facebook from a person by the name Samantha Oates, to please contact the Rainsville Police Department at (256) 638-2157. In a third incident on November 16, authorities responded to a possible drug overdose at the Super 8 Hotel. Once on the scene, Rainsville Police officers found a female unresponsive. Medics were
Photo Courtesy Alabama Governor's Office
Alabama native Brigadier General David Pritchett will serve as the next leader of the Alabama National Guard. He is moving into the position following the retirement of Major General Sheryl Gordo. Governor Kay Ivey's appointment of General Pritchett will be effective on January 1, 2024. The official change of command ceremony will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024. General Pritchett’s wife Julie is a native of Fort Payne, and they have three adult children: Katelyn, Clay and Anna Chris. Read more at www.alabamaledger.com New Leader Named For Alabama National Guard World Renown Orthopedic Surgeon Honored With Award
Dr. James Andrews, world-renown orthopedic surgeon and iconic sports figure, is the recipient of the 2023 Alabama Football Legend. Andrews’ areas of special interest include sports medicine, knee injuries, arthroscopy, and shoulder and elbow injuries in throwing athletes. “We are pleased and honored to recognize the career and accomplishments of Dr. Andrews, one of the most recognizable figures, not only in our state, but the entire sports world,” Johnny Williams, the Executive Director of the Camellia Bowl, said. The list of Andrews’ patients is a virtual who’s who in the sports world. Some of his more notable
patients include Bo Jackson, Charles Barkley, Roger Clemens, Jack Nickalus, Michael Jordan, Drew Brees, John Smoltz, Triple H, Brett Favre, Marcus Lattimore and Adrian Petersen. Dr. Andrews founded Andrews Sports Medicine in Birmingham, and he also has served as the Chairman of the Board and Medical Director of the American Sports Medicine Institute in Birmingham since 1986.
Courtesy of Hal Yeager, Governor's Office
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey gave remarks and participated in a ribbon cutting for Highway 411 on Wednesday November 29, 2023 near Leesburg. The ribbon cutting represented a substantial completion of an approximately $45 million project to construct the final four-lane segment of U.S. 411, joining Etowah and Cherokee counties. The six-mile stretch of new highway between Turkeytown and Leesburg provides Cherokee County with its first four-lane connection to an interstate, completing the four-lane corridor from the county seat at Centre to Interstates 759 and 59 in Gadsden. Highway 411 Ribbon Cutting
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PAGE 6A December 2023
Children battling cancer become a part of the Gadsden State Athletic Department A special signing A social worker
had a relationship with Gadsden State Athletic Director Blake Lewis while he was a baseball coach at Lawson State Community College in Birmingham. Waylon said he wanted his family to reconnect with Lewis and become Cardinals. “The previous relationship my team had with JoJo is proof that the partnership with the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation is a great fit for children with cancer,” Lewis said. “The goal of the partnership is to increase the children’s morale during their fight with cancer.” Riley Cook, an 8-year- old from Hayden is battling acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He was diagnosed when he was 6 years old. His father, Aaron, said he and his wife, Jessica, are hopeful that he will have his last spinal treatment in January. "His diagnosis did not stop him from playing basketball,” added his father. “During his first season, he was undergoing treatments. He continued to practice on Thursday and play on Saturday even though he was sick.”
connected with the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation. “When we told Riley about the Foundation Riley and Gadsden State, he immediately said yes,” Aaron said. “He was excited to attend the signing event and to meet all of the players.” Lynda and Denis Murphy, founders of the Foundation, attended the signing event and shared how the foundation programs are making a difference in the lives of 1,020 children nationwide. The Foundation was founded after their daughter, Jaclyn, was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in 2004 when she was only 9 years old. While in the hospital, a lacrosse team poster inspired her father to encourage hope that she would one day be like the players on the poster – happy and excited by a victory. Later, she was adopted by a collegiate lacrosse team as an honorary member. “The uplifting encouragement she received from the team members while battling cancer led to her dream of having sick children adopted by a
event was recently held at Gadsden State Community College, to welcome Joseph Nelson and Riley Cook to the Gadsden State Cardinals family. Flanked by their parents, the boys “signed” with the Cardinals on Nov. 30 at the Beck Conference Center. The partnership was organized by the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, which was created in 2004 to improve the quality of life for children battling pediatric cancer. Joseph Nelson, known as “JoJo,” is a 7-year-old from Shelby. He has had multiple brain tumors and is now in active treatment. His parents, Waylon and Casey Nelson, said he is responding well to treatment. “When he was one and a half, we took him to the doctor with what we thought was a severe ear infection but was shaken to the core with a cancer diagnosis,” said his father. “JoJo will never play sports because of the titanium plates in his head, but he loves watching sports.” The Nelson family, including brother Colton,
Some of those showing support at the event were Riley Cook, AD Blake Lewis, Denis Murphy, Joseph Nelson, Dean Myrick, as well as various other friends and volunteers.
team of their own,” Denis Murphy said. “She wanted to help every sick child find a team to show them love, support and friendship. “The foundation not only helps the child suffering, but it also helps the parents cope with their child's suffering. Research is important, but I am focused on helping these children today." Lewis said the children have been welcomed to the Cardinal family for life. “Just like Jaclyn Murphy, JoJo and Riley
will receive encouragement through videos, text messages, planned events and games,” he said. “I’m honored and the athletes are honored to be a part of this connection with these children.” Lewis added that the partnership is a win-win for the Nelson and Cook families and the Gadsden State Cardinals. "Through adversity comes discipline and endurance – key ingredients to the success and life of any athlete,” he said. “My goal is to use the connection
with JoJo and Riley as a reminder to Gadsden State's athletes that these children's adversity is negative, but with discipline and endurance, it can be turned into something positive. I want to provide exciting experiences for the children, their family and our athletes to channel meaningful positive memories into their lives, whether in the game, the classroom or the sideline." For more information about the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, visit friendsofjaclyn.org.
GSCC Dean of Student Services
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey recently announced that the Alabama Department of Human Resources finalized 741 foster care adoptions in Fiscal Year 2023. “I am extremely proud that Alabama has been able to place so many children in permanent homes,” said Governor Ivey. “I appreciate the tireless and dedicated work of the Department of Human Resources and our state’s numerous private partners. I also sincerely thank our foster families and adoptive families for giving these children loving, forever homes.” According to a report from the Governor, 69 percent of children who left foster care, returned home to family members or their parent(s) in 2023. While most children in Alabama’s foster care system do return to their families, there continues to be a need for adoptive families. “We are proud to have found permanency for these 741 children and youth that deserve forever families,” said Alabama Department of Human Resources Commissioner Nancy Buckner. “We could not have accomplished this without our partners in the permanency and adoption process, especially the judges, adoptive parents and foster parents. However, we must remember that the work is not done. We still have children that are waiting for a permanent family. Our staff and others work diligently every day to give these children the permanency they need. Always remember that there are no unwanted children, only unfound homes.” Currently, there are approximately 6,000 children and youth in Alabama’s foster care system and 196 that need forever homes. Strong year for Alabama Adoptions
Gadsden State Community College has a new dean of Student Services. Andy Green of Jacksonville provides leadership, strategic planning and executive oversight of student enrollment, retention and success for credit and non- credit programs. “I see the opportunities that community colleges have in serving the state of Alabama,” he said. “Community colleges provide academic courses, workforce development opportunities, adult education and so much more. I understand the mission of the Alabama Community College System – to ensure educational accessibility, excellence and equity for Alabama citizens. This closely aligns with who I am as a person.” Green comes to Gadsden State from Jacksonville State University, where he worked for 18 years. He earned two degrees from the university – a bachelor’s degree in geography in 2005 and a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in spatial analysis management in 2008. “Two weeks after earning my bachelor’s degree, I went to work at JSU as an admissions counselor,” he said. “I had a great time traveling in the region recruiting students to JSU.”
and special programs. It was an opportunity for him to gain experience in academic affairs. “I enjoyed working with students in the honors program,” he said. “I worked closely with organizations in our service area to create and organize community service opportunities for these students. My experience across JSU allowed me to really understand how the honors program is vital to the institution. They are students who are the brightest and the best. I worked with them to ensure that they are engaged in the college experience and have a strong sense of belonging. It was exciting to be a part of it.” Now, Green has turned his attention to Gadsden State and is excited about being a part of a team that is making a difference in the lives of students. “We know the value that certificates and degrees bring to individuals of all ages and to their communities,” he said. “For me, the goal is to ensure that everyone knows what Gadsden State has to offer and to understand that what we have to offer will positively impact lives.” He values partnerships and said he is consistently taking on a collaborative approach in his work. “Gadsden State is partnering with organizations to promote
a vital workforce in our service area and in the entire state,” he said. “We are bridging education to the private sector for employment. Relationship building is so important.” Green has cultivated his relationship with his community for many years. He was elected to the Jacksonville City Council in 2020 and was appointed to the Civil Service Board and the Commercial Development Authority, of which he served as chairman in 2019. The married father of two has served in leadership roles in the Alabama Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, the Southern Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers, the Alabama Banner Users Group and the Alabama ACT Council. Through the Calhoun Area Chamber of Commerce, he served as co- chair of the Calhoun County Complete Count Census Committee, was named Ambassador of the Year and is a graduate of Leadership Calhoun County. Through The Chamber of Gadsden and Etowah, Green was in the inaugural cohort of the Professional Leadership Academy and is a graduate of Leadership Etowah. Green, who started his job on November 30, said he intends to help Gadsden State students achieve their definition of “success.”
Three years later, he was named a senior admissions counselor. “This position really opened up the operations side of Admissions,” he said. “I got into the application process and transcript reviews, which I had not done before.” In 2009, Green became the director of academic advising, which was a new position that centralized advising for undecided majors and student-athletes. A year later, he was named director of enrollment management, where he developed and executed an enrollment and recruitment plan that provided a 77 percent increase in first-year and transfer applications over a seven-year period. In 2017, Green landed the position of director of community engagement and was responsible for forming partnerships between the university and community-based organizations, professionals and economic enterprises. The position eventually became responsible for continuing education and outreach as well. In 2022, he was named assistant dean of honors
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