July 2024 Print Edition
A LABAMA L EDGER July 2024 Northeast Alabama Print Edition www.AlabamaLedger.com 12 Pages Published by The Sports Ledger, LLC
Animal Cruelty Two individuals have been charged with Animal Cruelty after a video recently surfaced on social media. According to Etowah County Sheriff Jonathon Horton, on the morning of Saturday June 29, 2024 his office was notified of a video on social media of cruel treatment of a dog. The Sheriff's Office Investigation Division began actively working on this case to identify the subjects involved. Late that afternoon all subjects had been identified and the weapon that was used was recovered. As a result, two individuals have been charged in the case. One individual is a juvenile and cannot be named due to their age. This individual has been charged with Animal Cruelty in the juvenile court system. The second person were identified by authorities as Trenton Dewayne Sudberry, age 18 of Gadsden. He has been arrested and charged with Animal Cruelty. At the time of the news release he was in the Etowah County Detention Center and is awaiting bond. "We are proud to update that "Bullet" is back home with his family and safe," commented Sheriff Horton. "Bullet will be receiving a full examination, and seems to be in good spirits being back with his family and should make a good recovery." "It's unfortunate that animals are mistreated! Animals cannot speak up, so we have to make sure we do our best to take care of them and be their voice. Animal cases are just as important as any case we work," added Sheriff Horton.
I nside T his E dition Death Notices - Page 3A CHS 1972 Class Reunion - Page 5A Police Reports - Page 6A Saban Field Dedication - Page 1B Guntersville Football - Page 2B SEC Football Media Days - Page 5B Shoppers are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes, insect repellent and sunscreen and to bring plenty of hand sanitizer, snacks and water. For lodging information, directions, road closures and more information contact the DeKalb Tourism office at 888.805.4740 or the Greater Gadsden Area Tourism office at 888.565.0411. Each year, bargain hunters, yard sale connoisseurs, treasure seekers and those who just like to haggle make their way through northeastern Alabama for the biggest yard sale shopping spree in the world. The World’s Longest Yard Sale, a once-a-year, 690-mile shopping trip also known as the 127 Yard Sale, will take place on August 1-4, 2024. Along with shopping, treasure hunting, and bargaining, there is plenty of sightseeing to do along the North Alabama stretch that begins in Gadsden and travels along the Lookout Mountain Parkway through Fort Payne, and into Chattanooga, TN. The World’s Longest Yard Sale offers everything from antiques, collectibles, furniture and dishware to fresh local produce and homemade jams and jellies. There will also be food vendors and live entertainment. Created to get travelers off the interstate and into towns and communities located off the beaten path, the World’s Longest Yard Sale takes visitors on a shopping excursion through some of the country’s most scenic areas. The 93-mile Lookout Mountain Parkway has been touted “A Must See” by Reader’s Digest, National Geographic and Southern Living magazines, providing a beautiful backdrop to the thousands of roadside sales. Along with four days of shopping, visitors can experience a slice of real Americana, true southern hospitality, a variety of locally owned restaurants and accommodations and a world of nature, including majestic waterfalls, canyons, scenic brow vistas, unique towns and villages, state and national parks and preserves. Vendors are typically up and running by 8 a.m. and operate until late in the evening each day of the event. While some vendors may accept credit cards, cash is the preferred method of payment. Longest Yard Sale Set For August “Thank you to the officers with Collinsville Police Department, Crossville Police Department, Jacksonville State Center for Applied Forensics, as well as the neighbors who alerted law enforcement, all of your help and information played a vital role in the quick apprehension of Howard. This is such a tragic and senseless act of violence and our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of the victim,” commented Sheriff Welden. Collinsville Murder Suspect Arrested Authorities have one person in custody following a recent murder in the Collinsville area of DeKalb County. According to a press release from DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, Deputies with the Sheriff’s Office, along with members of the Collinsville and Crossville Police Departments, responded to an address on County Road 221 in Collinsville after being notified about an unresponsive female on June 25, 2024. By Brandon K. Pierce Alabama Ledger When Law Enforcement arrived, the victim was found to be deceased with an apparent gunshot wound. The Criminal Investigation Division then responded due to suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. James Michael Howard Jr., age 27 of Valley Head, was encountered in the area by neighbors of the victim a short time after law enforcement arrived on scene. These neighbors promptly notified law enforcement of Howard’s presence and he was detained and interviewed after Investigators determined that he had been at the victim’s residence. After interviewing multiple individuals with knowledge of the circumstances surrounding the victim’s death, as well as processing the scene, authorities arrested Howard for Murder and Public Intoxication. He was booked into the DeKalb County Detention Center.
Photo By Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger
Part-Time Deputy Arrested 2024 Guntersville Cheerleaders The members of the 2024 Guntersville Cheerleader squad include (Front L-R) Amber Harris, Sophie Langford, Maylee Holder, Lillie Walden, Kaylen Bishop, Ava Bolton, Kamberee Wells, and Carlyle Flanagan; (Back L-R) Ava Hammond, Landry Frazier, Sydnee Hill, Hannah Lane, Hayden Morrow, Maly Long, Macy Smith, Lillian Bodine, Tinslei Campbell, and Lauren Thompson.
Investigators contacted the outside agencies to receive assistance with the investigation, as well as to house Wells in an adjacent county’s detention center. “This past week has been a hard week for our office and our community. This event is a black eye to our office and also the entire law enforcement community. Law enforcement officers are expected to be held to the highest standard and when mischief is alleged, it is not taken lightly. This type of behavior cannot and will not be tolerated! The last investigation that we want to conduct is an investigation into one of our own, however right is right and wrong is wrong no matter who you are! The investigation is still ongoing and additional charges could be pending. Please be in prayer for all involved in this case and for our office as we move forward with serving you,” commented Welden.
By Brandon K. Pierce Alabama Ledger A part-time DeKalb County Sheriff’s Deputy has been terminated and arrested for allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct with minors. DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, said investigators received a complaint by a concerned parent regarding a part-time deputy, who he identified as Joshua Dane Wells age 40 of Fort Payne. An immediate investigation was started regarding this complaint. After interviews with various citizens, authorities determined that Wells had violated the policy and procedures of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and was therefore terminated. Investigators contacted the 9th Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office, ALEA, and the FBI for assistance with this case. After further investigation, it was determined a warrant could be issued for the
Joshua Wells
arrest of Wells pertaining to inappropriate sexual conduct with minors. He was arrested and booked into the Cherokee County Jail on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Sherriff Welden noted that Wells was not employed full-time by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and was currently in the Alabama Law Enforcement Police Academy attempting to complete his certification to become a law enforcement officer. However, due to his part-time employment with DeKalb County,
DeKalb and Cherokee County Roads To Be Resurfaced
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has announced that $3.9 million in state funding will be awarded to cities and counties for various statewide road and bridge projects. Twelve different statewide county and city projects were listed in this round of state funding. This includes resurfacing DeKalb County Road 89 from Highway 35 to DeSoto State Park, and resurfacing Cherokee County Roads 126, 185, 8, and 103. Also, Blountsville received $350,000 to resurface Whispering Trail, Ashley Street, Ashley Circle, Water Street and Church Street. Other areas receiving funding include Bullock County, Anniston in Calhoun County, Choctaw County, Florala in Covington County, Russellville in Franklin County, Geneva, Pickens County, Columbiana in Shelby County and Winston County. Governor Ivey, recognizing the critical infrastructure needs of the state, championed the Rebuild Alabama Act, which created the Annual Grant Program responsible for this allocation. The Rebuild Alabama Act, overwhelmingly passed by the Legislature and signed by Governor Ivey in 2019, requires the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) to establish an annual program setting aside a minimum of $10 million off the top of the state’s share of
new gas tax revenue for local projects. “Rebuild Alabama has brought record progress to every single county across this state, and I am proud that we continue delivering road and bridge projects today,” said Governor Ivey. “The $3.9 million we are awarding will support local projects from the top of the state to the bottom. As I have said many times, we are just getting started; the Ivey Administration will remain steadfast in our commitment to improving Alabama’s infrastructure.” Of the awarded projects, cities and counties also contributed a total of over $7 million in local matching funds. All projects are required to move forward within one year of the awarding of funds. With this round of funding, this year alone, more than $12 million in state transportation funding has been awarded through the annual grant program created by the Rebuild Alabama Act, with another round of funding yet to come. Since the passage of the Rebuild Alabama Act, local projects have been awarded state transportation funding in all 67 counties. For more information about the Annual Grant Program, visit the program’s dedicated web page at www.dot.state.al.us/programs/RAAGrantProgram.html.
Check Us Out For All Your Landscaping Needs
The Sports Ledger www.TheSportsLedger.com
Alabama Ledger www.AlabamaLedger.com
PAGE 2A July 2024
Several Killed In Roadway Incidents and Crashes A single-vehicle crash at approximately 1:35 a.m. on Saturday, July 13, claimed the life of a Huntsville man. Adam P. Garrison, 35, was fatally injured when the 2017 Lexus GX 460 he was driving left the roadway, struck a tree and caught fire. Garrison died at the scene. The crash occurred on Indian Creek Road, approximately one mile north of Huntsville, in Madison County. A single-vehicle crash at approximately 1:03 p.m. on Saturday, July 13, claimed the life of a Hartselle man. Brandon R. Gonzalez, 19, was fatally injured when the 2009 Nissan Altima he was driving left the roadway, struck a tree and caught fire. Gonzalez died at the scene. The crash occurred on Asbery Lane, approximately three miles east of Hartselle, in Morgan County. A single-vehicle crash at approximately 2:49 a.m. Saturday, July 13, claimed the life of a Fort Payne man. Cody W. Ashley, 19, was fatally injured when the 2020 Nissan Maxima he was driving left the roadway, struck a utility pole, a tree and then overturned. Ashley died at the scene. A 16-year-old juvenile, who was a passenger in the Nissan, was injured and transported to an area hospital for treatment. Ashley was being pursued by a Police Officer with the Fort Payne Police Department at the time of the crash. The crash occurred on DeKalb County 248, approximately two miles south of Fort Payne, in DeKalb County. Nothing further is available as Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate. A two-vehicle incident at approximately 7:18 p.m. Saturday, July 6, claimed three lives. Blake E. Hicks, 27, of Arab, was fatally injured when the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle he was operating struck the 2007 Chevrolet Impala driven by Carolyn S. Thompson, 75, of Joppa. After the impact, the Chevrolet left the roadway and struck a ditch. Hicks was pronounced deceased at the scene. Thompson was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash, was critically injured and transported to Marshall Medical North Hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries. The passenger in the Chevrolet, Brandy D. Burden, 51, of Joppa, was also critically injured and airlifted to Huntsville Hospital. On Monday, July 8, Burden succumbed to her injuries while at the hospital. The crash occurred on U.S. 231 near Mountain View Road, approximately five miles north of Arab, in Marshall County. A multi-vehicle crash at approximately 8:30 a.m. Sunday, July 7, claimed the life of a Huntsville teenager. The 17-year-old was fatally injured when the 2015 Nissan Altima the teen was driving struck the 1988 Chevrolet C2500 driven by Rodney L. Quick, 50, of New Hope. The Altima then struck a trailer attached to the 1988 Chevrolet R3500 driven by Shelby R. Cloud Jr., 52, of Huntsville. The teen was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash. The crash occurred on U.S. 72 near the 119 mile marker, approximately three miles west of Woodville, in Jackson County. A two-vehicle crash at approximately 8:40 a.m. Friday, July 5, has claimed the life of a Scottsboro man. Justin R. Bradford, 30, was critically injured when the 2007 Kawasaki Vulcan motorcycle that he was operating struck a 1999 Ford F150 driven by Ronald K. Crumbley, 42, of Carbon Hill. After the impact, both vehicles left the roadway. Bradford was transported to the Cullman Regional Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The crash occurred on Alabama 69 near Cullman County 216, in the Dodge City limits, in Cullman County. Nothing further is available as Troopers continue to investigate. A single-vehicle crash at approximately 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 2, has claimed the life of a Cleveland man. Justin P. King, 23, was fatally injured when the 2009 Harley-Davidson motorcycle that he was operating left the roadway and struck a utility pole. After the impact, King was thrown from the motorcycle and he died at the scene. The crash occurred on U.S. 31 near Church Street, approximately two miles south of Garden City, in Blount County. A multi-vehicle crash at approximately 5:39 p.m. on Monday, July 1, has claimed the life of a Baileyton woman. Brenda R. Reed, 78, was critically injured when the 1999 GMC Sonoma that she was driving was struck by a 2017 Nissan Titan driven by Aaron S. Barnes, 34, of Gadsden. After the initial impact, the GMC overturned and left the roadway. The Nissan Titan then struck a 2009 Nissan Rogue driven by Shawn S. Wheeler, 59, of Huntsville. Reed was transported to Marshall Medical North Hospital by helicopter, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The crash occurred on Alabama 67 near Hulaco Road, approximately five miles west of Arab, in Morgan County. A single-vehicle crash at approximately 1 p.m. Friday, June 28, has claimed the life of a Boaz woman. Macey E. Justice, 24, was critically injured when the 1995 Ford Ranger she was driving left the roadway, struck a culvert, and then a tree. Justice, who was being pursued by an officer of the Albertville Police Department at the time of the crash, was also not using a seat belt. Justice was transported to Huntsville Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. The crash occurred on Welcome Home Road, approximately 10 miles west of Albertville, in Marshall County. An incident involving a single-vehicle and a pedestrian at approximately 8:55 p.m. Saturday, June 29, has claimed the life of an Oneonta man. Gary L. Wilkerson, 67, was fatally injured when he was struck by the 2017 Toyota Camry driven by Matthew W. Dempsey, 52, of Oneonta. Wilkerson, who was initially operating a 2004 Harley-Davidson Road King, collided with an animal in the roadway and was thrown from the motorcycle into oncoming lanes. The crash occurred on Blount County 12, approximately eight miles south of Oneonta, in Blount County.
Nine Traffic Fatalities and Three Drownings Reported Submitted Photo Equipped With AEDs and Narcan Vehicles belonging to the Police and Public Safety Department at Gadsden State Community College are now equipped with Automated External Defibrillators and Narcan, an opioid overdose reversal medication. “This is a significant enhancement in our emergency response capabilities,” said Chief Jay Freeman. “This ensures that our team can promptly and effectively respond to medical emergencies across all five campuses located in three counties.” To further strengthen the department’s readiness, a Cardinal Safety Training Program has been developed. “This comprehensive program is available to all Gadsden State employees and includes essential training in the use of AEDs, Narcan and CPR,” he said. Over the course of an extended five-day enforcement period, Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) investigated a total of nine traffic fatalities and three non-boating fatalities (drownings). However, this was the third year in a row where the state experienced zero boating related fatalities on Alabama waterways. The traffic fatalities occurred in Calhoun, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Cullman, Escambia, Jackson, Marshall and Tuscaloosa counties with Wednesday, July 3, being the only zero-fatality day. Of those killed, six were drivers, one was a passenger and two were motorcyclists. Both motorcyclists were using helmets at the time of their crashes, but only one person of the seven traveling in vehicles equipped with seat belts was buckled up at the time of the crash. The three drownings occurred at Oak Mountain State Park in Shelby County, Wheeler Lake in Morgan County and Palmetto Creek in Baldwin County. ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “Unfortunately, this holiday period ended in tragedy for 12 individuals and their loved ones, which we extend our deepest condolences. For law enforcement, this number is a stark reminder that our job is never done. While I commend all of our officers and the state’s first responders who worked tirelessly over the holiday away from their families, I also pledge to the public that our Agency will continue our mission of protecting and serving by conducting high-visibility enforcement details and providing educational opportunities to combat dangerous driving and boating habits and reduce such tragedies.” Over the holiday, ALEA Troopers conducted numerous driver license checkpoints and participated in national campaigns such as Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and Operation Dry Water, in an intensified effort to reduce crashes, deter speeding and remove impaired drivers from Alabama’s roadways and waterways. Troopers assigned to ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division investigated 206 traffic crashes, made 48 DUI arrests, issued 2,429 citations for speeding, and issued 1,211 citations for seat belts and/or improper child restraints. Troopers assigned to ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division investigated 14 boating incidents, made 14 BUI arrests, issued 206 Marine Safety citations and issued 852 Marine Safety Warnings. Troopers also conducted 671 vessel inspections and patrolled 36 marine related events across the state, many of which were firework shows over the water. ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Director, Colonel Jonathan Archer said, “I echo Secretary Taylor's comments: our jobs are never done. With the increase in summer activities and travel, it is imperative that safety remains a top priority for everyone. Please remember to wear your seat belts, put down your phone and other distractions, and never operate a vehicle or boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Our Troopers will continue to work diligently to enforce traffic and boating laws to protect the lives of all Alabamians and its visitors. We are continuing our '101 Days of Summer Safety' educational campaign and the Rescue Swimmer Detail on the Gulf Coast. We will kick off Rural Road Safety Awareness Week on July 15th, and then we will also be joining our neighbors in Georgia for a joint safety initiative known as 'Operation Southern Slow Down' on the same day to focus on speeding and reckless driving.” Additionally, ALEA’s Aviation Unit, in conjunction with Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Fire Departments, participated in the Rescue Swimmer Detail on Thursday, July 4 through Monday, July 8. During this time, Aviation performed 12 patrol flights, responded to four calls for service, and performed 10 practice deployments of the Rescue Swimmers. The Agency would also like to remind beachgoers that while Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas and is now a Tropical Depression, the threat for strong rip currents along the Gulf of Mexico remains high, even in Alabama. Please swim with caution and check local surf and weather conditions. Beachgoers visiting Orange Beach and Gulf Shores may sign up to receive daily beach conditions and the beach warning flag status by texting ALBEACHES to 888777.
How to contact The Sports Ledger, LLC & Alabama Ledger We are NOT affiliated with any other sports or news publication. READ FREE ONLINE AT www.thesportsledger.com www.alabamaledger.com Alabama Ledger - Established in 2020 Home Owned, Operated, and Published by The Sports Ledger, LLC.
The Sports Ledger, LLC Established in 2006 MAILING ADDRESS PO BOX 175 Albertville, AL 35950 TELEPHONE 256-506-7368 Take One - First Copy Free Additional Copies $2.00 each
Print Edition Service Area
PUBLISHER Brandon K. Pierce Brandon@TheSportsLedger.com MANAGING EDITOR Myra W. Pierce Myra@AlabamaLedger.com
God Bless America!
More News Online
The Sports Ledger www.TheSportsLedger.com Perry Funeral Home In Centre Jonathan Leon Walker, age 53, of Piedmont Christopher Michael Cail, passed away at age 45 Barbara Ann Smith, age 77, of Leesburg Harold Wayne Gossett, age 81, of Centre Patricia Ann Richardson, age 84, of Cedar Bluff Debra Ann Goss, age 65, of Piedmont Rainsville Funeral Home Eddie Gene Twilley, age 68, of Fort Payne Vera June Gilreath Carroll, passed away at age 81 Frank Charles Humphreys, age 76, of Fort Payne Clara Morgan, age 89, of Fort Payne Wilma Dalton Collins, age 86, of Ider Terry W. Wells, age 62, of Fort Payne Theda Dean Warren, age 90, of Fort Payne Bill Fortner, age 88, of Rainsville Jerry Sargent, age 65, of DeKalb County Section Funeral Home Curtis Dale Clark, age 71, of Jacksonville, AL Elizabeth Sizemore Matthews, age 90, of Section Snead Funeral Home Teresa Reeves Underwood, age 63, of Snead Joshua Luke Dunn, passed away at age 43 Randall Keith Barton, age 62, of Snead Harold Dean Robbins, age 82, of McClarty Community April Laughlin King, age 42, of Walnut Grove Wilson Funeral Home in Fort Payne Kathleen Williams York, passed away at age 94 Penny Abernathy Laugherty, age 67, of Gadsden Shirley Jean Day, age 75, of Fort Payne Jimmie Sue Killian Foy, age 93, of Birmingham Susan Rogers Hairel, age 66, of Fort Payne Sara Katherine "Katie" Denson, age 44, of Fort Payne Russell Lowell Durham, age 70, of Fort Payne James Henry Haney, age 74, of Fort Payne Judy Gail Smith, age 77, of Mentone Robert Conrad Wayner II, age 42, of Fort Payne William Nelson "Bubba" King, age 67, of Fort Payne Mary Louise Stephens, age 73, of Fort Payne Julian "Jay" Clyde Davis, age 85, of Fort Payne Timothy Heath Tate, age 49, of Fort Payne W.T. Wilson Funeral Home Crystal Rena Gables, age 41, of Gadsden Stella Joann Heath, passed away at age 81 Wilma Jean Graben, age 77, of Fyffe Myra Nickels Brown, age 80, of Fort Payne Shirley Deloris Smith, age 86, of Rainsville Kelvin Eugene Cushen, age 67, of Henagar Joseph Randall Martin Jr., age 53, of Rainsville Gayla Sue Baker Holloway, age 69, of Henager David Larry Yancey, age 74, of Henagar Linda Chloe Frazier, age 78, of Henagar Earnest Dale Goggans, age 71, of Rainsville Johnny Edgar Patton, age 75, of Collinsville Kathie Mae Wiegert, age 73, of Rainsville Ramona Annette Henderson, age 77, of Fort Payne Jesse Foy Gilford, age 68, of Dutton Gary Glenn Moss, age 77, of Section James Shepard Jr., age 70, of Horton Cody Wayne Ashley, age 19, of Fort Payne Joseph Viola Jr., age 81, of Henagar Jacob Guillermo Espitia, age 25, of Boaz James Russell Harrison Sr., age 80, of Henagar William Marshall Jones, age 77, of Crossville Steak Cookoff Set Alabama's only triple steak cookoff returns in September bringing with it exciting grilling action and good times to the River City. Hosted by Mosaic Mentoring of North Alabama, Sizzle and Smoke welcomes steak connoisseurs and backyard grill meisters who gather to compete for prize money, bragging rights and a coveted golden ticket – the opportunity to compete at the 2025 SCA World Championships in Fort Worth, Texas. This year’s Sizzle and Smoke is set for Sept. 27-28, 2024 at Ingalls Harbor in Decatur. Mosaic Mentoring of North Alabama is excited to offer Alabama's only triple steak cookoff. Sizzle and Smoke, a Steak Cookoff Association (SCA)-sanctioned event, is a two-day competition where anyone can take their skills to the grill and enter the competition as long as they are members of the SCA. Membership to SCA is $40 to join and allows members to cook in as many steak events taking place anywhere in the United States. During Sizzle and Smoke, competitors can turn in three steaks for judging. One on Friday night, Sept. 27 and two on Saturday, Sept. 28. Mosaic Mentoring will provide ribeye steaks for the competition to ensure a level playing field. Sign up is available at https://www.steakcookoffs. com/event-5517779/Registration for Friday’s competition and at https://www.steakcookoffs.com/event-5517808/ Registration for Saturday’s competition. (The competition steaks are included in the registration fee.) Any cook registering before Sept. 12 will have his/her name put in a drawing for an aged Jack Daniels whiskey barrel. The winning steak will earn that competitor a payout of $1000. The second place steak receives $500, third place $400, fourth place $300, fifth place $200 and sixth through tenth place receives $100 each. The winners of all three steak turn-ins will receive a golden ticket to the SCA World Championship, March 13-16, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas. The competition also offers ribs, dessert and “Anything Jack Daniel” categories, with all paying to fifth place. Kids ages four to 13 years old can participate to see who has the best pork chop and compete for a payout of up to $100 for first place, $75 for second place, $50 for third place and $25 each for fourth through tenth place. To register for the kid’s competition, call Mosaic Mentoring of North Alabama at (256) 353-0157. Meetings for the cooks are scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Friday with awards presented at 9:30 p.m. and 10 a.m. Saturday with awards at 5:45 p.m. Adding to the fun this year, Real Steel will be hosting their annual charity car show on Saturday, Sept. 28.
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 Ellen Collier Scott, age 79, of Albertville John Earl Roden Sr., age 83, of Albertville Nancy Terrell Renfroe, age 72, of Douglas Earnest Wayne Garrison, age 82, of Albertville Bobby "Tim" Mitchell, age 65, of Marshall County Bobby Wayne Henry, passed away at age 30 Arnold D. Sampson, age 76, of Albertville Matthew Wayne Owen, age 39, of Albertville Macey "Loulou" Elizabeth Justice, age 24, of Boaz Aletha "Carol" Alvarado, age 73, of Albertville Carrol Janie Bates, age 77, of Albertville William "Tom" Carnes, age 90, formerly of Albertville Betty Ruth Witcher Patterson Sexton, age 88, of Cullman Ofelio Hernandez Trujillo, age 50, of Crossville Robert "Bobby" Hammer, age 91, of Albertville Pamela Bowen Bradshaw, age 68, of Albertville Donna Reed O'Kelley, age 70, of Albertville Sherry Collette Griep, age 80, of Guntersville Hazel June Smart, age 87, of Albertville Adams-Buggs Funeral Home in Gadsden Perry Holmes Irby Jr., age 77, formerly of Gadsden Robert Ellis "The Rock" Fleming, age 54, of Ashland Luther Leon Fife Sr., age 83, formerly of Piedmont Thomas Shropshire, age 64, of Gadsden Debra Dudley, age 66, of Gadsden Albertville Memorial Funeral Home Thelma Eulene Wright, age 93, of Boaz Ollie Mae Dunn, age 95, of Albertville Juanita Pegues Bright, age 64, of Albertville Mary Alice McMullins Wells, age 81, of Guntersville Lelon "Hoot" Edward Thomas, age 98, of Boaz Byron "Buck" Arnold Burbanks Sr., age 81, of Albertville Patsy Ruth Nix, age 85, of Crossville Marie Wilabay Davis, age 90, of Blessing Community Kimberly Kay Page, age 60, of Boaz Larry May, age 71, of Boaz Mattie Hand, passed away at age 77 Mona Mooney, age 66, of Albertville Timothy Shane Lamb Sr., age 57, of Boaz Alvin Robert Williams, age 78, of Douglas Houston Calaway Blancett, age 95, of Boaz Burt Funeral Home Barbara Phillips Morgan, age 84, of Valley Head Janice Womack Sharp, age 67, of Fort Payne Ronald Dow Waits, age 77, of Mentone Thomas Ellis Blevins, age 53, of Fort Payne Carr Funeral Home in Boaz Clarence Isbell Taylor, age 91, of Boaz Mary Janette Clanton, age 68, of Oneonta Loretta Lynette Rawlinson, age 96, of Red Bay Margaret L. Zimmerson, age 94, of Arab Mary Eileen Bowen, age 98, of Guntersville Jessie Lee Jones, age 99, of Guntersville Charles L. Walley, age 92, of Guntersville Linda Sue Harris, passed away at age 71 Kenneth Wayne Grogan, age 60, of Hamilton Collier-Butler Funeral Home Bobby Wayne McBrayer, age 80, of Gadsden Margaret Bishop Wooten, age 93, of Alabama City Ronnie Wayne Hood, age 79, of Gadsden Earline Ruby Jenkins, age 91, of Gadsden Roxie Janet Smith, age 85, of Gadsden Angela Marie Moore Maxwell, age 50, of Gadsden James Doyce Bobbitt, age 89, of Southside Harry D. "Shug" Butler, age 90, of Gadsden John Disque Agricola Sr., age 74, of Gadsden James Disque McDuffie, age 55, of Gadsden Dr. Clay Coston Rowe Sr., age 65, of Gadsden Infant Devyn Ann Stewart of Gadsden passed away Joseph Michael Mackey, age 76, of Gadsden Virginia Hudgins Pruitt Parris, age 80, of Glencoe Sandra Diane Crawford, age 75, of Gadsden Franklin Lee Ledford, age 80, of Southside Rev. Ronald David Reynolds, age 68, of Leesburg Carr Funeral Home in Guntersville Karen Denis Whittington, age 64, of Gallant Juanita Hooks Moore, age 90, of Gadsden Debra Ann Davis Beard, age 70, of Huntsville Willie James Bishop, age 87, of Gadsden Barbara Sue Sims Hood, age 92, of Gadsden Collinsville Funeral Home Tiffanie Janelle Wells Ford, age 35, of Fort Payne Ira Lee "Frankie" Welborn, age 66, of Centre
PAGE 3A July 2024
Cornerstone Funeral Chapel in Ider Kenneth Hillburn Brown, age 55, of Rosalie Mary Robertson Posey, age 70, of Ider Judith Karen Elliott Lancaster, age 75, of Ider Milton Edwin Joiner, age 79, of Pisgah Dewayne Anthony Thomas, age 59, of Stevenson Wendy Louise Hamrick, age 64, of Rossville, GA Larry Dean Beavers Sr., age 75, of Pisgah Phillip Terry Blevins, age 74, of Dutton Jennifer Lynn Williams, age 49, of Scottsboro Infant Grayson Otis Tucker passed away John Max Keith, age 83, of Henagar Sherry McKenzie Jackson, age 62, of Flat Rock Jessie Rayford Clements, age 92, of Henagar Charles W. "Mr. Bill" Murray, age 92, of Ider LaGwene Colley, age 91, of Rainsville Debrah Davis Koger, age 67, of Sylvania Robert Lynn Baxter, 71, of Ider Michael Jerry Lacy, age 60, of Rosalie Gerald Osborn Whited, age 69, of Higdon James Monroe Downey, age 88, of McCalla Bettye Gaye Keeton, age 90, of Piedmont Maggie Lou Dupree, age 88, of Alabama City Nila Jean Buttram, age 84, of Hokes Bluff Diane Morton Wilkerson, age 76, of Oxford Patsy Limbaugh Ward, age 82, of Alabama City Byron Sylvester Cook, age 67, of Gadsden Jerry Arnold White, age 85, of Gadsden Kenneth Bagby, passed away at age 51 Perry Wesley Gwin, Sr., age 84, of Etowah County Charles Eugene Day, age 97, of Websters Chapel Shirley Ann Moon, age 80, of Southside Stephen Roger Henson, age 69, of Glencoe Melvin "Ted" Henagar, age 72, of Jacksonville Jerry Wayne Casey, age 75, of Hokes Bluff James Lamar Massenbrug, passed away at age 78 Megan Lee Farmer, age 33, of Gadsden Crossville Memorial Chapel Robbie Lane Monroe Buttram, age 94, of Crossville Margaret Ann Burns, age 82, of Crossville Etowah Memorial Chapel James Franklin Johnson, age 64, of Boaz Doris Hall, age 83, of Walnut Grove Hubbard "Bob" Cledith Chapman II, age 69, of Boaz James Leon Walls, age 74, of Boaz Tomas Andres Perez, age 64, of Boaz Addie Richards, age 56, of Boaz Bessie Ruth Payne, age 85, of Walnut Grove Eddie Ray Gaskin, age 68, of Boaz Tyler Golden, age 35, of Altoona Janice Dalrymple Battles, age 80, of Boaz Richard Fleming, age 76, of Boaz Ronald Wayne Holdbrooks, age 77, of Boaz Lucy Jeanette Noblitt, age 96, of Ellijay, GA Terry Baker, age 66, formerly of Boaz Dawn Marie Floyd, age 62, of Boaz Biff Alton Sparks, age 75, of Collinsville Gladys Marie Owens, age 92, of Boaz Crestwood Funeral Home in Gadsden
Geraldine Funeral Home
Joyce Hall Gregory, age 93, of Crossville
Guntersville Memorial Chapel Rev. Norman E. Hartshorn, age 90, of Guntersville Kimberly Kay Henson Dunn, age 46, of Albertville Terry Wayne Pannell passed away at age 73 Shelvy Jean Landry, passed away at age 85 Harmon Bernard Hudgens, age 88, of Guntersville Jerry Lawrence Harris, age 87, of Guntersville James William Stisher, age 74, of Guntersville David Chance Snyder, age 34, of Guntersville Barbara Ann McDowell passed away at age 85 Marshall Memorial Funeral Home Deborah Maria Hipwell Brown, age 74, of Zepyrhills, FL Johnny Ray Hollis, age 50, of Albertville Mary Ruth "Nanny" Bishop, age 85, of Boaz Johnnie Sue Brown, age 80, of Gadsden McRae Funeral Home Chad Buchanan, age 41, of Boaz Carol Moore, age 79, of Boaz Linda J. Murphree, age 64, of Horton Joe Conner "J.C." Birdsong, age 98, of Boaz James "Jim" Whitehead, age 94, of Douglas Nancy Putman Hefner, age 83, of Double Bridges Linda Formby, age 76, of Albertville Jimmy "JT" "Professor" Thompson, age 70, of Boaz Morgan Funeral Chapel and Crematory Kenneth William Jenkins, age 67, of Attalla Billy Wayne Wright, age 74, of Attalla Hilda Brackett Smith, age 85, of Steele Hazel Virginia Bradley, age 86, of Walnut Grove Alice Ruth Tarrance, age 84, of Attalla Vivian Dolores Malone, age 88, of Gadsden Gabriel Francis Pettit, age 91, of Gadsden Susan Diane Pettit, age 61, of Attalla Melba Louise Portwood, age 86, of Gadsden Jerry Wayne Morgan, passed away at age 85 Eva Janet Smith, age 82, of Steele Oscar Lee Link, age 84, of Gadsden Jerry Wayne Collett, passed away at age 80 Cristy Mischele Danna, age 58, of Panama City Beach Jeffery Hanes Minyard, passed away at age 54 John Arthur Graber, age 78, of Southside Barbara June Burgess, age 83, of Gadsden Draven Storm Marble, age 27, of Rainbow City Jerry Dean Bryson, age 71, of Reece City Arthur Leroy Edmondson, age 89, of Gallant Donna Lou Kilpatrick Fish, passed away at age 70 David William Roby, passed away at age 72 Luetrail Ann Bradley, age 92, of Euless, Texas John Stanley Morgan, age 63, of Gadsden Rev. James "Jimmy" R. Bailey, age 91, of Attalla Deanna Bridgeland, age 86, of Rainbow City Betty Jane Hammett, age 95, of Etowah County Michael Talton, age 63, of Boaz
The Sports Ledger www.TheSportsLedger.com
Alabama Ledger www.AlabamaLedger.com
PAGE 4A July 2024
Gadsden State Community College is increasing its annual revenue by approximately $600,000 with an increase in the special building fee. The fee will increase from $12 to $20 per credit hour beginning in the fall semester. “The special building fee provides funds for improvement of our facilities and to finance bonded indebtedness of the College,” said Dr. Kathy Murphy, president. “It is important that we continue to improve the infrastructure at Gadsden State because it enhances the overall educational environment. Ultimately, our students and community benefit from the improvements provided through these fees.” Due to the building fee increase as well as the standard $2 tuition increase, Gadsden State students will now pay $178 per credit hour. Previously, tuition and fees were $168 per credit hour. “Even with the $8 building fee increase, Gadsden State continues to be one of the most affordable options for higher education in Alabama,” she said. According to the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, the cost of tuition and fees for 30 credit hours at Gadsden State is about $6,600 less than the cost at public universities in the state. In less than a year, Gadsden State employees, students, alumni and supporters have celebrated the renovation of two buildings, the completion of the new Advanced Manufacturing and Workforce Skills Training Center and the announcement of two additional construction and renovation projects. In October, a ribbon cutting was held for the renovations of Helderman Hall and Bevill Hall on the Wallace Drive Campus. Helderman Hall houses Gadsden State’s Nursing Program and Emergency Medical Services while Bevill Hall is home to the Radiography Program, Medical Laboratory Technology Program and Medical Assistant Program. The $1.4 million in renovations and upgrades included new program equipment; replacement of the heating and cooling systems; new student study spaces; new student lounges; new office space; two new testing labs; new exterior lighting; and updated elevators and restrooms. On April 2, a groundbreaking for a softball and baseball complex took place at the Gadsden Sports Park, which is located behind the College’s Wallace Drive Campus. The $10 million project will feature new softball and baseball fields that will include fully synthetic turf and bullpens, state-of-the-art LED light systems, new scoreboards and protective netting systems. Locker rooms, restrooms, press boxes, a concessions building, elevated bleachers for spectators and a covered hitting facility with three hitting and pitching lanes will also be constructed. Murphy announced on April 29 that Wallace Hall Fine Arts Center and the academic wing would undergo a large-scale renovation at a cost of $7.9 million. The academic wing is undergoing complete renovation of the classroom and studio spaces that will be used for courses in photography, pottery, visual arts, choral and band. Renovations will also be made to the computer lab and restrooms as well as new interior sheet rock walls, doors, flooring and paint throughout the building. New electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems will also be installed. Exterior renovations will include an updated brick and precast façade; a new concrete paved courtyard with lighting; a new front entry to both the Fine Arts Center and academic wing; and all new windows. The Wallace Hall and sports complex projects will cost a total of $17.9 million. The projects are being funded by a bond approved in November by the Alabama Community College System Board of Trustees. The AMC ribbon cutting on the East Broad Campus was held June 12. The state-of-the-art facility features 10 laboratories, seven classrooms, 11 offices, a multipurpose room, 10 tool and storage rooms, a storm shelter, a testing suite, a kitchen and serving area, a breakroom and six restroom areas. It also features glass viewing areas that allow prospective students and industry partners to have laboratory visibility during tours. Approximately $24 million in funding came from a statewide bond issue passed by the Alabama Legislature in 2020 with the intention to upgrade facilities and new construction. An additional $12 million was provided in the Education Supplemental Appropriation Bill approved by the Legislature and signed into law by Alabama Governor Kay Ivey in June 2023. “The comprehensive renovations and ambitious new construction projects are designed to provide our students and employees with facilities that foster learning and innovation,” Murphy said. “Our commitment to the advancements and enhancements on our campuses ensures that Gadsden State will remain at the forefront of academic excellence in the communities we serve.” For more information, visit www.gadsdenstate.edu. Marine Incident A marine-related incident occurred on Lewis Smith Lake at approximately 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, and has resulted in the injury of a Cullman man. Garlan E. Gudger Jr., 49, was injured when the 2024 Sea-Doo GTI personal watercraft (PWC) he was operating was struck in the rear by a 2019 Sea-Doo GTI PWC operated by Garlan E. Gudger III, 21, of Cullman. The collision caused both individuals to be thrown into the water, however, both Gudger Jr., and Gudger III were wearing personal flotation devices (PFDs). Bystanders in the area assisted both individuals out of the water and transported them to a nearby dock. Garlan E. Gudger Jr., was evaluated by local emergency medical services personnel (EMS) and was subsequently transported via helicopter to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital for medical treatment. Garlan E. Gudger III was also evaluated by local EMS personnel but was released at the scene. The incident occurred in Little Crooked Creek area (also known as Rock Creek) on Lewis Smith Lake near Crane Hill in Cullman County. Gadsden State Increases Special Building Fee
BACK TO SCHOOL BASH - The 3rd Annual Blount County Back 2 School Bash will be held on July 27, 2024 from 4-8 p.m. at the Susan Moore High School Baseball Fields. The event is sponsored by Blount County churches and business, and will include free backpacks, haircuts, school supplies, food and drinks. IDER OPEN HOUSE - There will be open house at Ider High School on August 5 for grades K-12 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Pre-K Orientation at Ider will take place at 6 p.m. on July 30. JUNIOR HIGH ORIENTATION - Junior High Orientation for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders at Geraldine will be held on August 5, 2024 at 6 p.m. in the GHS lunchroom. Schedule pickups and locker purchasing will be available following the orientation. The cost for lockers will be $15. Additionally, teachers will be set up in classrooms after orientation. FREE OSHA TRAINING - Gadsden State Community College’s Adult Education Services is offering free online OSHA training courses. Two levels – OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 – are being offered. The 10-hour course provides entry-level workers with a broad awareness of recognizing and preventing hazards in a general industry or construction workplace. Topics include an introduction to OSHA, focus on four hazards, personal protective equipment, health hazards, emergency procedures and ergonomics. The OSHA 30 training provides more comprehensive safety and health training for workers and supervisors. The 30-hour course is intended to offer a deeper understanding of workplace hazards and the measures to prevent them. In addition to the OSHA 10 topics, participants will also learn how to communicate safety procedures and conduct safety training sessions for employees. The course is available online. However, an in-person orientation is required. Participants must pass end-of-module quizzes and two final exams to earn an OSHA card. For more information, contact Heather Tyree, instructor, at hlframes@gadsdenstate.edu. Go to www.gadsdenstate.edu/adulted to register. KILLEN FOUNDERS DAY - The Town of Killen will hold Founders Day on August 2-3, 2024. The event will include a parade, a 5k run, artisans, food vendors, musical entertainment, activities for kids, a working colonial village, Native American demonstrations, classic vehicles, and a fireworks show at the conclusion of the event on Saturday. SYLVANIA WINGFEST - The 2024 Sylvania High School football WINGFEST is back for a 10th year. The event will be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024 from 5-8 p.m. WATERMELON FESTIVAL - The Franklin County Watermelon Festival in Russellville, AL is set for August 16-17, 2024. The Watermelon Festival offers arts and crafts, a variety of watermelon contests, car and truck show, food vendors, children’s activities, games, and musical entertainment, along with free samples of watermelon. The festival weekend begins with opening ceremonies at 6:30 p.m. on Friday with live music taking the stage both days. Contests centered on watermelons, including watermelon seed spitting, the largest melon, best tasting melon, most unusual and best-dressed melons, are a highlight each year entertaining festivalgoers of all ages. Over 100 vehicles are expected for the car and truck show on Saturday morning, and additional activities include a 5K run and 1-mile fun run, character guests to entertain the children and the Franklin County Extension Office contests. All activities take place along Main Street (Jackson Avenue). Hours are 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free. For more details, visit the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce website at www.franklincountychamber.org or call 256.332.1760. $550 MILLION BRIDGE GRANT - The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has awarded a $550 million discretionary grant from the Bridge Investment Program to the Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project. The major grant award is believed to be one of the largest federal grants ever received for an Alabama project and is the second- largest in the program’s history. It marks a significant milestone in the decades-long project to build a new Interstate 10 Bridge and Bayway connecting Mobile and the Eastern Shore of Baldwin County. RODEO - The 4th annual Monroe County Rodeo will take place in Frisco City, AL on Aug. 9-10, 2024. The family friendly rodeo will include food vendors, a mechanical bull and crowd participation games. Gates open at 6pm and the rodeo starts at 7pm. The Monroe County Rodeo is a National Cowboy Professional Rodeo Association sanctioned event. SCOTTSBORO ART SUNDAY - More than 80 artisans and craftsmen will make their way to Scottsboro to participate in a juried show and offer their artworks and crafts for sale at the 51st annual Art Sunday, which will be held on the first Sunday in September. Along with arts and crafts, the event offers musical entertainment, children’s activities, photography contests and food and beverage vendors. The event is set for Sunday, September 1, 2024, in King Caldwell Park. Festival attendees will have the opportunity to shop the work of 80-plus artists and makers between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Admission to the festival is $3 for adults, $2 for school-age children and free for children ages 5 and under. Entry is also free for guests wearing this year’s Art Sunday t-shirt and also free to anyone with a Military ID. In conjunction with the festival, a photography contest is offered for aspiring amateur photographers. All entries receive free admission to the festival plus each entry will be entered for a chance to win prizes. First place winners of each youth age division will receive a digital camera. Adult winners will receive a Walmart gift card. Prizes will be awarded at Art Sunday at 3:00 p.m. Contestants who wish to enter the photography contest will need to submit an 8x10 photo of a person, place or thing with a completed entry form and a $5 entry fee. Submissions can be dropped off at the Scottsboro Board of Education or Jackson County Board of Education or brought to the cabin located in King Caldwell Park between 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. the morning of the festival. Art Sunday is hosted by the Scottsboro Three Arts Club. Proceeds from Art Sunday make it possible for the club to sponsor many community projects and educational endeavors including performances by the world renowned Alabama Ballet at Northeast Alabama Community College. Additional projects funded by the proceeds of Art Sunday include violin lessons for third graders, field trips to plays, ballets and symphonies, donations to the choral, art, and drama departments and the Scottsboro Public Library. LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE - Several Snead State Community College students qualified for the recent FBLA Collegiate National Leadership Conference, and two students placed at the national competition. Evan Patterson of Albertville placed sixth in Computer Applications. Sarah McCullars, also of Albertville, placed 10th in Hospitality Case Study Presentation. To qualify for the National Conference competition, the students had to place in their individual categories at the state level. The results of the state competition for the students were: Evan Patterson: first place in Computer Applications and second place in Business Presentation; Ashley Williams of Arab: first place in Foundations of Computer Science and second place in Foundations of Technology; Emily Williams of Arab: first place in Foundations of Economics; Sarah McCullars: first place in Foundations of Finance and first place in Hospitality Management and Case Study; and Breanna Black of Grant: first place in Job Interview The Snead State FBLA Collegiate organization is led by Business and Social Sciences Division Director Dr. Meredith Jackson and Business Instructor Dr. Chris Chaffin. ELECTION INTEGRITY - Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen, along with Secretaries of State from Montana, Indiana, West Virginia, Mississippi and Wyoming, have signed a joint statement on election integrity and opposing the federalization of state election processes at the Republican National Convention.“I am always proud to stand alongside other conservative election officials to publicly call for strong, common sense election integrity measures,” said Secretary Allen. “This statement emphasizes several areas of concern in election integrity and is meant to plainly and boldly declare the election policy positions of myself and my fellow Republican Secretaries of State.” The Secretaries emphasized several following areas of concern in an effort to restore voter confidence in the election process. Six of these include: (1) According to the US Constitution, the responsibility to determine the time, manner, and place of state elections rests with each state's legislature. Registration of voters, the casting of ballots, and the counting of ballots must be in accordance with the laws prescribed by the respective state legislatures. (2) President Biden's Executive Order No. 14019 relating to voter registration is a classic example of federal overreach and is clearly unconstitutional. It should be rescinded immediately (3) No votes should ever be accepted or counted that are derived from outside the laws as passed by an official act of each state's legislature. (4) Only citizens of the United States should be able to register and vote in state and federal elections. (5) Photo voter ID is fundamental to secure elections (6) Drop boxes for election ballots should not be used. HAPPENING AROUND ALABAMA
Best Wishes To All For A Great School Year!
Keith Canterberry ~ 256-302-2252 Keithcanterberry@yahoo.com bamawholesaleauctions@gmail.com Like us on Facebook at: bama-wholesale-auctions Instagram: Bama Wholesale Auctions
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker