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PAGE 8A May 2026
Crossville High School Class of 2026 Submitted Photo
Jon Conner Named General Manager at Howard Bentley
Jon Conner has been named the new General Manger of Howard Bentley Buick GMC in Albertville. Additionally, he was recently appointed to the Albertville City School Board, where he will serve the community and support the continued growth and excellence of the local school system. Conner is an automotive retail sales leader with 15 years’ experience in new vehicle sales, wholesale, finance, and pre-owned vehicle management. He joined Howard Bentley Buick GMC in 2014 and held the role of General Sales Manager since 2018, before being named General Manager in 2026. Jon oversees the dealership's sales operations, contributing to its recognition as the number one GMC dealer in Alabama for 2025, marking the best vehicle sales year in its history. His leadership, along with that of his wife, dealer principal Taylor Bentley Conner, has been instrumental in the third- generation, family-owned dealership's sustained growth. His comprehensive understanding of the automotive industry enables him to effectively lead the sales team and contribute to the dealership's continued excellence, including
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The senior members of the Class of 2026 at Marshall Christian include: Landon Baker, Emily Campbell, Pablo Gomez, Aidan Guthery,London Hall, Brock Heaton, Jacob Loper, Garrett Madden, Jonathan Martinez, Bella Noblitt, and Megan Priest. Marshall Christian Names Val & Sal
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earning General Motors Dealer of the Year Award for the 10th consecutive year. With a passion for helping customers find the perfect vehicle, Jon’s friendly approach, deep product knowledge, and commitment to transparency, make the car-buying experience smooth and a great deal for customers across the country. Backed by the dealership’s reputation— “It’s Always Worth the Drive to Howard Bentley”— Jon leads the sales team in providing experience that exceeds the customer’s expectations. Beyond his managerial duties, Jon is deeply committed to community service. In 2024, he co- led Howard Bentley Buick GMC's United Way campaign, achieving a remarkable 60% increase
in total contributions and an 86% rise in employee participation. These efforts garnered the dealership the United Way of Marshall County's Star Award for the most improved workforce campaign. He was recently appointed to the Albertville City School Board, where he will serve the community and support the continued growth and excellence of the local school system. Jon's commitment to excellence and community involvement underscores the dealership's core values of dedication, integrity, and cooperation. His leadership continues to foster a culture of customer satisfaction and civic responsibility, reinforcing Howard Bentley Buick GMC's reputation as a trusted and community- focused automotive leader.
The Valedictorian for the Marshall Christian Class of 2026 is Landon Baker. He has been a dedicated student at Marshall Christian Academy for the past nine years, where he has distinguished himself as this year’s top student. Throughout his high school career, he has been actively involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, including 4-H, football, MCYL, and Beta Club, demonstrating both leadership and a strong commitment to his community. Following graduation, he plans to continue his education at Snead State Community College, where he will complete his second year before transferring to the University of Alabama in Huntsville to pursue a degree in Game Design. In his free time, he enjoys playing cards with his family and gaming with friends. He is looking forward to the next chapter and the opportunities ahead. The 2026 Salutatorian at Marshall Christian is Megan Priest. She has attended MCA for 13 years. She is a student athlete participating in basketball, volleyball, cheer, and track. Additionally, she has participated in leadership organizations including the Marshall County Youth Leadership and Youth Development Leadership Programs. Megan volunteers for Maker’s Child participates
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Valedictorian Landon Baker
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Salutatorian Megan Priest
in 4-H. She works as a lifeguard at the Sand Mountain Park. "I take my faith in God very seriously and try to glorify God in everything I do! I teach a first grade class at my church, volunteer in children’s
church, Vacation Bible School, and Nursery," said Megan. "When I have free time I love to play basketball and build Lego flowers" Her future plans are top to become a kindergarten teacher.
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