September 2025

Alabama Ledger www.AlabamaLedger.com

The Sports Ledger www.TheSportsLedger.com

PAGE 3B September 2025

Alabama First Wildlife Rehabilitation License Plate The members of the 2025 Valley Head High School Homecoming Court are: (Front Row) Natalya Buffington; (Middle Row L-R) Olivia Woods, Lila Dupree, Lexi Coffman, Addison Shoults (Top row L-R) Bailey Trammel, Braylie Callahan, and Chloe Palmer. The Alabama Wildlife Center (AWC), the state’s oldest and largest wildlife rehabilitation and education organization, has unveiled a new way for Alabamians to help save native wildlife: the state’s first-ever specialty license plate dedicated to wildlife rehabilitation. The striking design, created by renowned Alabama wildlife artist Rhiannon Harris, features a Great Horned Owl and represents the hundreds of injured and orphaned animals rescued every year by AWC. Submitted Photo 2025 Valley Head High School Homecoming Court To bring the tag into production, AWC needs 1,000 Alabama drivers to pre-register by May 2026. Supporters can sign up on AWC’s website at https://alabamawildlifecenter. org/cartag/ by covering the $50 specialty tag fee or requesting AWC to sponsor their pre- registration at no cost, thanks to donors underwriting the campaign. “Every year, we care for upwards of 2,000 wild birds from over 110 different species— from Bald Eagles to tiny hummingbirds—all with the goal of returning them to their native habitats,” said Chris Sykes, Executive Director of Alabama Wildlife Center. “This license plate is a simple way for every Alabamian to help give wildlife a second chance.” Once 1,000 pre-orders are secured, the plate will go into production, and AWC will receive a portion of every tag sold. Each tag generates approximately $41.25 annually for AWC’s operations, creating a critical, recurring revenue source for the organization’s wildlife rehabilitation and education programs. “By putting this plate on your car, you’re helping save wildlife 365 days a year,” said Rhiannon Harris, designer of the tag. “It’s a small gesture that makes a huge difference— not just for the animals, but for the communities across Alabama that benefit from AWC’s work.” Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Oak Mountain State Park, AWC operates Alabama’s only full-service wildlife hospital and serves as a statewide resource for wildlife rescue, education, and outreach. Along with providing free wildlife helpline services, AWC reaches over 10,000 students and adults annually through its educational programming, including Title 1 schools, senior living facilities, and community programs. “This is more than just a license plate—it’s a way for Alabamians to show they care about preserving our state’s natural heritage,” Sykes added. “Every commitment gets us closer to ensuring Alabama’s injured and orphaned wildlife have a place to heal.” To learn more, or pre-register, visit https://alabamawildlifecenter.org/cartag/.

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

Albertville running back Eguensley Cerant (#22) attempts to power his way through the Sparkman defense during AHSAA football action on Friday, September 12, 2025. The Aggies fell to Sparkman 45-27.

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

Arab's Landon Pitt (#11) and Christian Price (#15) attempt to stop a Sardis runner during the Knights recent 21-15 victory over the Lions.

2025 Arab Senior Cheerleaders Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger

Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator