April 2026 Print Edition
A LABAMA L EDGER Providing News From Northeast Alabama and Around the State Since 2020 April 2026 12 Pages FREE TAKE ONE!
Governor Signs New Law For Terrorist Threats in Schools
Will Lang has been hired as the new head varsity football coach at Guntersville High School. The appointment was approved during the Special Called Board of Education meeting on Thursday, April 9. Lang joins Guntersville from Hartselle High School, where he served as offensive coordinator, play caller, and associate head coach. During his tenure, he directed some of the most productive and high- powered offenses in the state of Alabama. His units consistently ranked among the top in scoring and total offensive production while setting multiple school records, reflecting both his strategic approach and ability to develop players within his system. “Coach Lang brings a proven track record of offensive excellence, leadership, and a Rep. James Lomax, the terrorist threat legislation was introduced in the upper chamber by state Sen. Matt Woods. “With school threats becoming a far too regular occurrence, protecting our children has never been more urgent, said Rep. Lomax. “HB7 ensures that our laws keep pace with these challenges by strengthening penalties and removing disruptive threats from the classrooms. I am grateful to Governor Kay Ivey and my colleagues in the Legislature for their continued commitment Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has signed into law House Bill 7, which strengthens criminal penalties for those who make terroristic threats in schools and other public spaces. “If Alabama is to remain the best place to live, work and raise a family, we must ensure all of our classrooms are the safest environments for learning,” said Governor Ivey. “Terroristic threats made against our schools are meant to create fear among students and their parents and undermine security. The wellbeing of Alabama’s children must come first. Those who make such threats will be subject to the toughest penalties under the law.” Sponsored by state
Jamie Bliss (above) was honored as the Boaz Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year during the 2026 Annual Awards Banquet on Thursday, April 9 at Rockledge Terrace. Other Boaz Chamber awards presented at the event include: Parson Pride Award: Drew Noles; Educator of the Year: Meagan Buttram; Emerging Business of the Year: 19th Hole Golf; Business of the Year: Chevrolet of Boaz, Industry of the Year: Pinnacle Manufacturing; and Volunteer of the Year: Pam Osborn. Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger Citizen of the Year Church Safety and Security Training Health Care Fraud This training is designed to empower church leaders and volunteers with the knowledge, awareness, and confidence needed to respond effectively in a crisis. For more info contact Chief Jay Freeman at 256-549- 8611 or by email at jfreeman@gadsdenstate.edu. The Gadsden State Community College Police and Public Safety Department is proud to partner with Cross Creek Community Church to host a Free Church Safety & Security Training Conference on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The conference will take place at Cross Creek Community Church, located at 4825 Highway 278 East in Hokes Bluff, Alabama, and is designed to equip church leaders, security teams, volunteers, and staff with the knowledge and tools needed to strengthen safety and preparedness within their congregations. Led by law enforcement professionals, this hands- on training will cover critical topics including tactical awareness, threat recognition, effective emergency communication, crisis management, evacuation procedures, and use-of-force considerations. The conference aims to help churches proactively prepare for potential safety concerns while maintaining a welcoming and secure environment for their members. Churches across the region are encouraged to take advantage of this valuable opportunity to enhance their safety teams and improve response capabilities. Registration is free, but space may be limited. The Deadline to register is May 20, 2026. To register please Email crosscreekcc04@gmail.com and include your church name and total number of attendees. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, recently announced the sentencing of an Anniston man on charges of health care fraud and identity theft. On April 2, 2026, a federal judge sentenced 54-year- old Hasan Jermel Pulliam to 54 months in prison. The court also ordered Pulliam to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and to pay $718,967.20 in restitution to the Alabama Medicaid Agency. There is no parole in the federal system. According to his plea agreement and other court records, Pulliam was a child and family therapist who enrolled as a provider with Alabama Medicaid in October 2018. After enrolling, Pulliam received referrals from other medical providers that included Medicaid beneficiaries’ names, dates of birth, Medicaid Recipient Identification Numbers, and other personally identifying information. On October 25, 2025, Pulliam pleaded guilty to health care fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Photo Courtesy of Governor's Office
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey Signs New Bill.
to the safety of every Alabama student.” Under the new enhanced law, a person commits the crime of a terrorist threat in the first degree when they make a credible threat against a person or to damage property. It also expands the scope of the threat to include hospitals, nursing homes or other buildings housing disabled or immobile individuals.
“HB7 sends a clear message: Threats against our communities will not be tolerated,” said Sen. Woods. “This legislation strengthens accountability and ensures every threat against our schools, churches, hospitals and government buildings is taken seriously. Our schools should be focused on learning – not lockdowns.” Additionally, a student
charged with making a terrorist threat will be suspended from their classroom until completion of a due process hearing. They cannot return to school until all charges are resolved, and the student has completed a mental health examination. If a student is found guilty, they will be expelled from school. The law will become effective July 1, 2026.
Lang Named Guntersville Head Football Coach
also creating opportunities for student-athletes to succeed at a high level. His leadership has played a key role in strengthening an already established program at Hartselle and maintaining a standard of consistent performance and competitiveness. In addition to his on-field success, Lang is known for building strong relationships with players, coaches, and the broader school community. His focus on character development, teamwork, and leadership aligns with the values of Guntersville City Schools and the expectations of the Guntersville High School football program. Guntersville City Schools is excited to welcome Coach Lang to Guntersville and looks forward to the continued growth and success of its football program under his leadership.
Photo Courtesy of Guntersville Athletics
commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field,” said Dr. Brad Cooper. “He is also a great leader who will positively impact our students, our program, and our community. We are excited about the energy, vision,
and success he brings to our football program.” Throughout his career, Lang has earned a reputation for innovative play calling and maximizing player potential. His approach emphasizes discipline, preparation, and accountability, while
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PAGE 2A April 2026
Hospital Impact is $306 Million the region to utilize new minimally invasive, heart- pumping technology that can temporarily take over the heart’s work, giving it time to rest and recover. Access to imaging services continues to increase Regional Medical Center as more than 600 babies were delivered in 2025. Emergency medicine clock care by a team of physicians, nurses and support staff, all passionate about serving patients. Their compassion and skills make a difference in the lives of neighbors, friends and the larger community. “We have immense Over 600 Babies Delivered in 2025
At more than 290,000 patient encounters last year, Gadsden Regional Medical Center delivered on its commitment to provide quality healthcare for the Etowah County community. The health system’s 2025 Community Benefit Report shows care extended well beyond the hospital and clinics, contributing more than $306 million to the region through charity, uncompensated care provided, capital dollars reinvested in services and facilities, employee payroll, charitable projects and payment of more than $14 million in taxes supporting local schools and civic resources. The health system used its resources to increase access and strengthen services through more than $6 million in projects. The recruitment of a new cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. Lucman Anwer, OB/GYN, Dr. Sathiyakala Rajendiran, and general surgeon, Dr. Florencia “Flo” Pereira, has strengthened service lines at the facility. Gadsden Regional also became the first in
remains a critical service, with more than 31,000 visits to the emergency room at Gadsden Regional Medical Center. Life-saving medically necessary care was provided to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, with more than $178 million in charity and uncompensated care in 2025. The health system and its employees also support local organizations that make a difference, especially those addressing social determinants of health. Through service projects such as the annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter drive for the Etowah Community Food Bank and contributions to charitable organizations such as United Way of Etowah County, Man Up Gadsden, and Neighborhood Bridges, Gadsden Regional Medical Center gives back to the community throughout the year. Payroll of nearly $100 million supports the delivery of around the
with the addition of 3D Mammography and Bone Densitometry at Gadsden Regional Imaging, and Endobronchial Ultrasound to increase lung cancer screening accuracy. The reinvestment in services benefits local residents and serves as an important resource for patients who come from other hospitals that are 5, 10, or even as far as 50 miles away. “We are here to care for our patients and the place we all call home,” said Michael Hall, chief executive officer of Gadsden Regional Medical Center. “Health is central to quality of life, and we offer advanced medical services here in Etowah County to make it easy to access the care you need. It’s our privilege to transform lives every day, helping patients manage their health at every stage of life.” Area families grew with the help of Gadsden
gratitude for every member of our team, and we are investing in resources to support them in their work and a culture that attracts and retains these talented people,” said Hall. “This team is passionate about delivering quality care to those who are counting on us. We have an unwavering commitment to patient safety, clinical excellence, and doing the right thing every day for those who trust us with their care.” Support for the future healthcare workforce includes training the next generation of medical professionals. Nursing, radiology, lab, and respiratory therapy students from six colleges and universities are completing their clinical rotations at the hospital, giving them clinical training and cultivating a pipeline of providers for the future.
Photo Courtesy of Gadsden State
April GSCC Events Gadsden State is celebrating Community College Month and has several events scheduled April 2026 Community College Month Highlights April 15 • Honors Day, Wallace Drive Campus, 2 p.m. • Phi Theta Kappa Induction, 5 p.m. April 16 • NC3 Signing Day, Ayers and Gadsden, 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. • Baseball Games 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. • Evening of Fine Arts, 6 p.m. • Valley Street Campus Clean-Up Day (Construction Tech), 10 a.m. April 17 • Health Sciences Mass Casualty Simulation • Welding Contest, 9 a.m. • Pop-Up Poetry Workshop April 18 • Women’s Self Defense Class (GSPD), 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. • Softball Games 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. April 20 • SkillsUSA Competition Week begins April 21 • Athletic Spirit Day with Game Day Live (all day) • Ayers G-Day • Choir Tour Begins • Valley Street Campus Clean-Up Day (LPN), 10 a.m. April 22 • Preview Day, Valley Street Campus • Administrative Professionals Day • Cardinal Arts Journal Workshop, 4 p.m. April 23 • Baseball Games 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. • GSCC Film Festival April 25 • Softball Games 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. April 26 • Baseball (TBA) April 27 • Valley Street Campus Clean-Up Day (Dental Assisting), 10 a.m. • Surgical Technology Ribbon Cutting and Open House (Ayers), 5 p.m. • State of the College (Ayers), 6 p.m. April 28 • Preview Day, Wallace Drive and East Broad Campuses • CoMeT Signing Day, 5:45 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 30 • Gadsden Sports Park Ribbon Cutting, 11:30 a.m. • Athletic Alumni Recognition, 12 p.m. • Baseball Games 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. • Softball Games 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. • FAME Signing Day, 5:45 p.m. to 8 p.m. • Showband Blueprint Ball Performance, 7 p.m. • Cardinal Arts Journal Annual Poetry Reading Students from Gadsden State Community College recently participated in the "Don't Drop It On Alabama" clean-up day. The clean-up efforts brought together participants across multiple GSCC campuses and departments to pick up litter, improve outdoor spaces and demonstrate pride in both the college and the communities it serves. Volunteers collected debris across campus grounds and nearby areas, refreshed common spaces and helped enhance the overall environment. The clean- up efforts were part of Community College Month, a national celebration highlighting the value and impact of community colleges. Throughout April, Gadsden State is hosting events and sharing stories that showcase student success, workforce development and academic opportunities. Some of the month's remaining events are listed below.
IRS Reminds Taxpayers To Stay Alert To Investment and Cryptocurrency Fraud During April, federal, state, financial institutions and
scammers build a relationship with a victim over weeks or months to gain trust before stealing large sums of money. The crypto‑investment schemes involve fraudulent opportunities marketed as legitimate cryptocurrency investments. Taxpayers can protect themselves from these scams by using the following tips: Ponzi Schemes • Verify the investment and the person offering it. • Be skeptical of any investment promising guaranteed returns. • Check whether they are registered with regulators (SEC, state securities board) Pyramid Schemes • Avoid any program where income depends mainly on recruitment. • Check whether most revenue comes from product sales to real customers. Pig‑Butchering and Romance Investment Scams • Do not invest through platforms someone you met online directs you to. • Slow down. Pig‑butchering scams rely on building trust over time. • Verify any opportunity independently (not with links they provide). • Never transfer crypto or funds based on an online acquaintance’s recommendation. • Never mix romance and financial transactions with someone you haven’t met. • Be cautious of anyone who avoids video calls or in‑person meetings. • Talk to a trusted friend, because scams thrive in secrecy. To report fraud, visit IRS.gov or contact the Atlanta Field Office at atlantafieldoffice@ci.irs.gov. Joe Jolley Insurance Agency LLC AUTO | HOME | LIFE | BUSINESS | MOTORIZED RECREATION
other organizations will be recognizing Financial Literacy Month. The IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS‑CI) Atlanta Field Office is using this month to urge taxpayers to stay alert to financial investment and cryptocurrency fraud schemes. “Financial Literacy Month is a great time to remind taxpayers to stay sharp, stay informed, and not to let crypto or investment scammers catch them off guard,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “IRS‑CI special agents work every day protecting consumers by investigating, stopping, and holding those responsible for committing fraud and other financial scams designed to steal their money.” Financial investment fraud occurs when scammers deceive individuals or organizations into handing over money for fake, misleading, or grossly misrepresented investment opportunities. Common types of investment fraud schemes include Ponzi and pyramid schemes, cryptocurrency investment fraud and romance-linked investment fraud. These schemes continue well beyond filing season and increasingly target older adults, online investors, job seekers, and individuals looking for relationships, costing victims millions each year. The Ponzi scheme is a fraudulent investment operation where the organizer promises high returns but pays earlier investors using money from newer investors, not from legitimate business profits. A pyramid scheme is a fraudulent operation in which participants earn money mainly by recruiting new members, rather than by selling a genuine product or service. The pig‑butchering investment fraud typically incorporates elements of romance fraud which are long‑term financial fraud schemes, often involving cryptocurrency, where
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MISS POTATO PAGEANT - The Miss Potato Pageant will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2025 at Henagar Jr. High School in DeKalb County. The pageant is open for girls 0-18 years old. The Deadline to enter is May 8. MAY ON THE MOUNTAIN - The May on the Mountain Bluegrass Festival will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Henagar City Park. Entry is free, but be sure to bring a lawn chair. Music begins at 10 a.m. with Alley Katz. Other performers include The Bluegrass Volunteers (11 a.m.), Nickel Gap and the Grooves (noon), Carl Towns and Upward Road (1 p.m.), Piney Grove (2 p.m.), and Heritage (3 p.m.). The event concludes at 4 p.m. with a performance by The Malpass Brothers. NINE YEARS IN OFFICE - Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has led the state for nine years as the 54th Governor of the State of Alabama. The governor’s historic tenure includes major achievements. Under Governor Ivey’s leadership, Alabama has seen record investments and job creation, nationally recognized education gains, transformational progress in the state’s roads, bridges and digital infrastructure, increased public safety measures, improvements to the state’s correctional system, reforms to state government, protection of family values and much more. “I wake up each day grateful to God that I have the chance to call Alabama home and that my fellow Alabamians have placed their confidence in me to lead our state forward. Nine years ago, I pledged to the people of Alabama that I would leave our state better than I found it. We have made great progress over the last nine years, but our work is not done. I promise to continue giving it my all until the last day of my term to make sure Alabama remains the best state in which to live, work and raise a family,” said Governor Ivey. At nine years, Governor Ivey is the longest consecutively serving governor in the state’s history.
Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger
Members of the Snead State Community College Ambassadors took time for a picture while helping with food service during the 2026 Boaz Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet at Rockledge Terrace on Thursday, April 9.
Cherokee County Courthouse to Open New Location
The Cherokee County Commission and the Cherokee County Public Building Authority has announced the official opening of the new Cherokee County Courthouse, which is located at 373 East Main Street in Centre. A parade and ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Friday, May 1, 2026. The parade is scheduled to start promptly at 10:00 am. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will follow at approximately 10:30 a.m. The planned festivities will mark the completion of the historic project, which aims to improve efficiency, safety, and public access to justice services. After two years of construction, the new 37,000-square-foot facility replaces the outdated courthouse, which has served the community since 1937. The modern, two- story building is designed to meet the needs of a growing population and features state- of-the-art technology to facilitate modern litigation. Key features of the new courthouse include: • Two New Courtrooms: Equipped with advanced audio-visual technology for jury demonstrations and evidence presentation. • Enhanced Security: Dedicated secure transportation areas for detainees and modern screening facilities for public safety. • Increased Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant, offering improved access for all community members. • Functional Design: Improved workspace for judges, clerks, the district attorney, and support staff, promoting "one-stop-shop" • efficiency for court-related activities. "This new courthouse is a testament to our commitment to preserving the rule of law while meeting the needs of a modern, growing community," said Tim Burgess, who serves as Probate Judge and Chairman of the Cherokee County Commission. "This facility provides a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment for our citizens, staff, and justice partners. The project was a collaborative effort, with the District Attorney, District Judge, Circuit Judges, the Circuit Clerk, Alabama State Administrative Office of Courts, the Sheriff’s Department and the County Commission all providing key support and direction.” The Court House was completed by general contractor Consolidated Construction Company and designed by McKee and Associates Architects, Inc. The design is aimed at serving the community for decades to come.
Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger
The exterior of the new Cherokee County Courthouse.
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The following Death Notices are published as a courtesy of the Alabama Ledger and local funeral homes. To include more info, or a photo of your loved one, in a future edition of the Alabama Ledger contact us at 256-506-7368. Extended obits start at .20 cents per word and $10 per photo. D eath Notices Alabama Ledger www.AlabamaLedger.com Adams Brown Service Funeral Home Marie S. Mann, age 87, of Albertville James Eric Branan, passed away at age 53 Peggie Sue Rains Moore, age 87, of Albertville Bobby Gene Williams, age 95, of Albertville William "AL" Temple, passed away at age 60 Alesia Alexander, age 65, of Hazel Green Dennis Lamar Parr Sr., age 74, of Albertville Bobbie Joyce Hayes, age 83, of Albertville Barbara Ann Wayne, age 84, of Guntersville Ethel Marie Rosson, age 81, of Boaz Margaret Johnston Aaron, passed away at age 99 Brenda Emily Smith, age 81, of Albertville Alphard Coy Graben, age 84, of Albertville Mollie Thomas Edmondson, age 96, of Geraldine Jean Wester Martin, age 82, of Albertville David W. Garrett "Mr. FixIt" passed away at age 63 Christopher Ray Kelley, age 37, of Guntersville Mary Grace Childers, age 74, of Gadsden Adams-Buggs Funeral Home in Gadsden Evangelist Gladys Roper, age 69, of Gadsden Mary Elizabeth McCain Wise, age 81, of Gadsden Gesna Bennette Hughes Littlefield, age 91, of Gadsden Kyle Vincent Yother, age 71, of Boaz Kimberly Belinda McHenry, age 34, of Albertville Margaret Louise Almand, age 87, formerly of Albertville Kevin Matthew Ford, age 48, of Boaz Wanda Fay Bayless, age 78, of Albertville Bobby Dale White, age 85, of Geraldine Burt Funeral Home Kaye Frances Kiker, age 74, of Mentone Steven Wayne Huggins, age 77, of Fort Payne Donna Jean Moses Heard, age 78, formerly of Fort Payne Carl Alan Bukley, age 70, of Fort Payne Carr Funeral Home in Guntersville George Pierson Kappler, Jr., age 80, of Guntersville Barbara Dean Moon, passed away at age 83 Cherokee Memorial Funeral Home Blanche Richerson Smith, age 93, of Cedar Bluff Samuel Joseph Chuckery, Jr., age 83, of Centre Gregory Walden Russell, age 64, of Centre Laura Gail Wilson Lloyd, age 71, of Cedar Bluff James Orban Elders, age 76,of Cedar Bluff Sarah V. Rickett, age 81, of Ball Play Gary Brent Ransum, age 76, of Leesburg Ann Louise Bukovak Evans, age 89, of Centre Jason Maurice Robinson, age 51, of Gadsden Jeanne McGinnis, age 71, of Birmingham Erik Brent Ellard, age 45, of Cedar Bluff Doris Barkley, age 80, of Centre Jimmy Braxton Edgeworth, age 65, of Cedar Bluff JC McGatha, Jr. age 77, of Piedmont Anna M. Smith, passed away at age 70 Doris Stephens Ragan, age 87, of Piedmont Collier-Butler Funeral Home Karen Jean Boland Nash, age 73, of Gadsden Everly Rose Garrett, passed away at age 5 Trula Faye Addison, age 88, of Rainbow City Infant Achilles Angel Reed passed away Bobbie Jean Winningham, age 85, of Rainbow City Dr. Barbara Harp Bryant, age 85, of Gadsden Dorothy Marie Watts Lane, passed away at age 85 Vera Loretta Ragsdale, age 88, of Gadsden Christopher D. Boyd, age 51, of Southside Gary Maxwell Henry, age 79, of Rainbow City William Edward "Eddie" Hough Jr., age 71, of Pelham Marjorie Henning, passed away at age 98 Rebecca Lambert Kirk, age 72, of Gadsden Bro. Kenneth Lasseter, passed away at age 84 Juanise Lasseter, passed away at age 84 Jackie Sue Carmack, age 85, of Gadsden Charles Ronald Bryan Jr., age 76, of Gadsden Regina Long Beaird, age 86, of Gadsden Geneva Lucille Benefield, age 88, of Gadsden Johnnie Fay Williams, age 87, of Attalla Jack Lee Roberts, passed away at age 84 William Craig "Bulldog" Mitchell, age 53, of Fort Payne Justin Edward Wade, age 42, of Rainbow City Edward Hunter, age 71, of Gadsden Anthony Parker, age 71, of Gadsden Albertville Memorial Chapel
PAGE 4A April 2026
Collinsville Funeral Home Robin Clifton Anderson, passed away at age 72 Lu Ann Morrow, age 69, of Collinsville Cornerstone Funeral Chapel in Ider Josephine "Jo" Marshall Doresk, age 96, of Flat Rock
David Ray Sayre, age 76, of Collinsville Donna Roden Hicks, passed away at age 72 Rainsville Funeral Home Gay Walker, age 80, of Dutton James "Snuffy" Smith, age 81, of Ider Mary West, age 93, of Rainsville Marion Rufus Anderson Jr., age 94, of Savannah, TN Infant Kaiden Christopher Smith, of Section, passed away Billy Ray Jones, age 87, of Peeks Corner Tommy Horton, age 81, of Rainsville Nicky Eugene Rothell, age 55, of Fort Payne Morris Stallings, age 78, of Rainsville Infant Westyn Lee Smith, age three months, passed away Emma Jane McMinn Chaney, age 92, of Valley Head Rickey Wooten, age 53, of Fort Payne Wilson Funeral Home in Fort Payne Roy D. Follis, age 72, of Mentone Ellen Killian McCalman, age 76, of Collbran Community Betty Christine Campbell Pope, age 86, of Fort Payne Donna Tolbert Smith, age 67, of Fort Payne Kelly Athena Brooks, passed away at age 47 Ernesto S. Tancinco, age 88, of Valley Head Marty Lee Baker, age 61, of Fort Payne Patricia Diane McCain, passed away at age 68 Stephen Christopher Davis, age 35, of Mentone Delilah Jean Stiefel Rupil, age 74, of Fort Payne Beth Eline Chitwood Thomas, age 64, of Fort Payne W.T. Wilson Funeral Home Geoffery Tyrone Nix, age 38, of Dutton Mary Lou Bailey, age 97, of Huntsville Carol Marion Hammond, age 81, of Valley Head Sandra Gail Brown,a age 63, of Fort Payne Larry Wayne Freeman, age 74, of Geraldine George David Ennis, age 80, of Albertville Lester Lee Wright, age 91, of Rainsville James Edwin Barrett, age 83, of Grove Oak Shelba Coleman Sharp, age 79, of Sylvania Jennifer Robertson, age 47, of Fort Payne Linda Lee Heard, age 77, of Fort Payne Melvin Lee Wells, age 74, of Rainsville Jeannie Venable, age 65, of Collinsville Louise Armstrong, age 87, of Grove Oak Emily Rose Tully, age 26, of Crossville Joan Peacock Chandler, age 79, of Collinsville Diane Lynn Black, age 65, of Scottsboro Lisa Faye Butler Lyons, age 64, of Fyffe Robert Lee Driskill, age 67, of Fort Payne Charla Ann Sisco, age 67, of Albertville Ann Lee Hilley, age 97, of Fort Payne Margot Agives Tye, age 82, of Fort Payne James Randall Amos, age 77, of Albertville James Ralph Spears, age 91, of Summerville, Georgia Gina Kelly Grant, age 61, of Fort Payne Billy Gene Poole, age 96, of Rainsville Sarah Pauline Thrash, age 88, of Grove Oak Coy Junior Knopps, age 76 of Fyffe Christy Ophelia Wells, age 55, of Cedar Bluff Shelia Diana Munn, age 74, of Gadsden Mary Lane Smith, age 68, of Albertville Sharon Hanners Robinson, age 79, of Crossville A single-vehicle crash at approximately 12 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026 has claimed the life of a Boaz teenager . According to Alabama State Troopers, a 16-year-old was fatally injured when the 1996 Dodge Dokota that the juvenile was driving, left the roadway and struck a tree. The teen was not using a seat belt at the time of crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The crash occurred on Old McVille Road near Gaines Circle, approximately seven miles east of Albertville, in Marshall County. Nothing further is available as Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate. Boaz Teenager Dies in Crash
Nancy Lucille Ivey, age 98, of Henagar Cecil Earl Millican, age 82, of Flat Rock
Donald Harley "Bozo" Smith, age 74, of Flat Rock Mamie Ruth Gilbreath Whitmire, age 95, of Albertville
Lisa Releford Phillips, age 61, of Henagar Kimberly Cooper Stone, age 62, of Flat Rock Kela Gail Chapman, age 38, of Henagar Tony Overby, age 66, of Henagar Tyler Alexander Lemley, age 30, of Gadsden
Crestwood Funeral Home in Gadsden Lucy Sims Hindman, age 89, of Glencoe Martha Morgan Vick, age 87, of Birmingham Jean Brooks Callan, age 101, of Gadsden Herylan Hamby, age 96, of Gadsden Nellie Marie Roundtree, passed away at age 85 Mildred Ruth Atkins, age 99, of East Gadsden Donald R. Holmes Jr., age 64, of Gadsden Area Crossville Memorial Chapel Gail James, age 71, of Albertville Etowah Memorial Chapel Floyd Randall Hulsey, age 63, of Boaz Rev. William Michael Lusk Sr., age 75, of Boaz Dejuana Michelle Farlow, age 55, of Attalla Johnathan Craig Hallmark, age 56, of Boaz Earnestine Sheffield, age 103, of Gadsden Ronald Gene "Peanut" Weaver, age 72, of Altoona Marie Evelyn Hill Barksdale, age 92, of Duck Springs Larry Battles, age 52, of Boaz Geraldine Funeral Home Fernando Martinez, age 72, of Albertville Kitty Kelley, age 62, of Crossville Gober Funeral Chapel in Arab Richard York, age 81, or Arab Samuel "Sam" Everett Dorris, age 90, of Hulaco Charles Grady Skelton, age 75, of Arab Dorothy "Dot" Carson, age 94, of Arab Alice Owens, age 70, of Guntersville William Lynn Bonds, age 71, of Falkville (formerly of Arab) Vickie Rae Sutton Miller, age 68, of Arab Judy Elaine Hann, age 76, of Arab Corey Luke Fleming, age 39,of Arab Hilda Marie Thomas, age 93, formerly of Arab Kerby Funeral Home Ronald Eugene Wilson, age 68, of Pisgah Marilyn Sue Davis Bailey, age 76, of Lookout Mountain Marshall Memorial Funeral Home Donna Marie Strange, age 84, of Albertville Joy Faye Elliott, age 73, of Boaz Mildred Patterson, age 93, of Boaz McRae Funeral Home Jerry Paul Moore, age 76, of Boaz Sandra Jean Territo, age 62, of Boaz Charlotte Williams, age 72, of Boaz Gail Christie, age 69, of Boaz Cheryl Hubbard, age 70, of Albertville Ronnie Murphy Jr., age 62, of Horton Ester Adams Roach, age 85, of Rainbow City Joseph Marion Collins, age 89, of Attalla Joan Baker Daugherty, age 70, of Southside Donald Evan Bryson, age 52, of Collinsville Charles Edward Knight, age 76, of Attalla Barbara Ann Whited, age 87, of Ashville Amanda Jane Gilliam, age 48, of Gadsden Evelyn Brown Martin, age 94, of Attalla Paul Garland Johnson, age 62, of Altoona Janice Ann Pittman Hall, age 90, of Steele Van Norris Greenhaw, age 85, of Gadsden Shirley du Point, age 80, of Southside Laura Hundley, passed away at age 76 Peggy Williams, passed away at age 71 Wanda Ray Williams, age away at age 83 Shelia Lalane Smith Stone, age 69, of Gadsden Vernon Ray Woffard, age 85, of Alabama Miranda Reanee Skelton, age 46, of Rainbow City Elizabeth Gail Thompson, age 85, of Rainbow City Sabrina Ann Pitts, age 54, of Attalla Bonnie Jo Bethune, age 93, of Brownstown Dewayne Robertson, age 70, of Henagar Morgan Funeral Chapel and Crematory William Robert McMullins, passed away at age 58 Bobby Gene Self, age 80, of Cartersville, Georgia Bonnie Lucille Brasher, age 77, of Rainbow City Perry Funeral Home In Centre Linda Ann Waits, age 76, of Centre Martha Arlene Stepps, age 82, of Centre Gary E. Mobbs, age 81, of Cedar Bluff James Ronald Davis, age 69, formerly of Cedar Bluff Dorothy Nell "Dot" Johnson, age 94, of Centre Charlie Lee "Bo" Coots, age 68, of Calhoun, Georgia Verna Carolyn Young, age 94, of Cedar Bluff
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Fort Payne Police Department Report The following crime report was provided by the Fort Payne Police Department. All persons are presumed innocent until his or her guilt is established beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. March 13, 2026 Incidents • One Arrest • Victoria Elena Moore, age 22 of Scottsboro, was arrested for Theft of Property Three Accidents with One Injury • April 2, 2026
Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano recognizes April as National Social Security Month under the Trump Administration. “The Social Security Administration delivers monthly payments to 75 million people, including our nation’s seniors, disabled, and most vulnerable populations, and National Social Security Month is dedicated to providing the highest quality service to the Americans we serve,” said Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano. “Under President Trump’s leadership, I have made it mission-critical for the agency to meet people wherever they choose to be served—at a field office, over the phone, or online. As part of our commitment to strengthening Social Security, we will make it easier for Americans to take control of their benefits and plan for their future.” As a result of Commissioner Bisignano’s leadership and digital-first vision for the agency, Americans are receiving better, faster service. Over 100 million Americans now have my Social Security accounts to easily and conveniently do business with SSA online. Personal my Social Security accounts enable individuals 24/7 access to the agency’s tools and services, whether they currently receive benefits or not. To learn more and create a personal my Social Security account, visit: https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/. Throughout April, SSA will focus on different themes to help the American public with their Social Security benefits. The agency invites you to use our toolkit of resources, including blogs, social media content, and articles, to help spread the word about National Social Security Month with a goal of ensuring that more Americans are informed about their Social Security benefits and can plan for a secure financial future. For more information about Social Security’s services, visit www.ssa.gov. Paul Douglas White, age 55 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia at 4:56 pm No Accidents April 8, 2026 Incidents • Damaged Property – Occurred at 1608 Glenn Blvd SW, a concrete roof was damaged, valued at $5000.00 One Arrest • Austin Shane Medlock, age 27 of Scottsboro, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear at 9:30 am Two Accidents with No Injuries April 9, 2026 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at 1903 Gault Ave N, an E Vape was taken, valued at $29.99 No Arrests Two Accidents with No Injuries April is Social Security Month No Incidents and Four Arrests • Timothy David Garrett, age 67 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Criminal Littering • Porsha Larie Brown, age 29 of Rainsville, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear • James Loy Roberts Jr, age 58 of Dawson, was arrested for DUI • Teddy Campbell Jr, age 39 of Chattanooga, was arrested for DUI Two Accidents with No Injuries April 3, 2026 No Incidents, No Arrests Two Accidents with No Injuries April 4, 2026 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $83.41 • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $63.74 Three Arrests • Ahiby Francisco Leyva Alvarez, age 21 of Dutton, was arrested for DUI • Megan Olene Abreu, age 36 of Henagar, was arrested for Theft of Property • Sebastian Clay Burt, age 25 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency Three Accidents with One Injury • An accident occurred at Airport Road NW and Sylvania Road NW, Elias Pascual Maria, age 19 of Fort Payne, driving a 2019 Nissan Sentra, left the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned. Maria was transported to Dekalb Regional by Dekalb Ambulance Service. April 5, 2026 No Incidents and Two Arrests • Daniel Zachary Drain, age 19 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance • Zachary Wolfgang Snapp, age 46 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear No Accidents April 6, 2026 No Incidents No Arrests Three Accidents with No Injuries April 7, 2026 • Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, several miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $76.86 • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $14.42 Three Arrests • Harley Hope Loyd, age 27 of Leesburg, was arrested for Public Intoxication at 3:03 am • Barry Phillip Satterfield, age 62 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Illegal Possession of a Credit/Debit Card and Fraudulent Use of a Credit/Debit Card at 10:13 am •
An accident occurred at Clark Ave NW and Tram Road NE, Dakota Wayne Wooten, age 18 of Fort Payne, driving a 2026 GMC Sierra, struck Kaylea Renee Crow, age 39 of Fort Payne, driving a 2022 Nissan Sentra. Crow was transported to Dekalb Regional by Dekalb Ambulance Service. March 21, 2026 Incidents • Damaged Property – Occurred at 1912 Godfrey Ave NE, a mailbox was damaged, valued at $50.00 Three Arrests • Juan Alfredo Miguel Pablo, age 23 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Domestic Violence • Joshua Lee Davis, age 44 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency • Robert Decallus Green, age 41 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Attempting to Elude a Police Officer and Resisting Arrest Three Accidents with No Injuries March 22, 2026 No Incidents and Two Arrests • Lewis Edward Vincent III, age 43 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance at 12:09 pm • Simon Jesus Sanchez, age 29 of Sylvania, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear at 1:20 pm No Accidents March 23, 2026 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous merchandise was taken, valued at $168.34 One Arrests • Patty Jane Anthony Cochran, age 55 of Collinsville, was arrested for Theft of Property Five Accidents with No Injuries March 24, 2026 No Incidents, No Arrests and No Accidents March 25, 2026 No Incidents and One Arrest • Jimmie Elijah Shepard, age 42 of Centre, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear One Accidents with No Injuries March 26, 2026 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, several miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $1121.77 Two Arrests • Christy Nichole Green, age 46 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Theft of Property • Jesus Eduardo Gonzalez Ortega, age 34 of Valley Head, was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia One Accidents with No Injuries March 27, 2026 No Incidents and Two Arrests • Edward James Lovelidge II, age 53 of Mentone, was arrested for Public Intoxication • Jacob Paul Chandler, age 35 of Fort Payne, was arrested for DUI No Accidents March 28, 2026 No Incidents Five Arrests • Megan Lynn Moore, age 38 of Rainsville, was arrested for DUI • Michael Jackson Clifton, age 58 of Sylvania, was arrested for Theft of Property • Barry Phillip Satterfield, age 62 of Fort Payne, was arrested on Four Warrants for Outside Agency • Landon Cole Frazier, age 43 of Henagar, was arrested on Three Warrants for Failure to Appear • Amilcar Sales Garcia, age 29 of Fort Payne, was arrested for DUI Two Accident with no Injuries March 29, 2026 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $22.41 • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $194.64 Four Arrests • Skyler Michael Cody, age 20 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Domestic Violence • Pamelyn Gilbreath Wooten, age 61 of Valley Head, was arrested for Theft of Property Martha Jane Bowes, age 70 of Valley Head, was arrested for Theft of Property and Criminal Trespass • Ciara Brianna Frazier, age 47 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia No Accidents March 30, 2026 Incidents • Change Bill Circulating – Occurred at 105 6th Street SE, a $100 bill was fake Two Arrests • Mary Cathryn Tollett, age 24 of Gaylesville, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency • Larry Allen Shull, age 47 of Fort Payne, was arrested for DUI and Public Intoxication One Accident with No Injuries March 31, 2026 Incidents • Burglary and Criminal Mischief – Occurred at 100 2nd Street NE, eight extension cords were taken, several lights bulbs and a commode were damaged, valued at $880.00 No Arrests Four Accidents with No Injuries April 1, 2026 No Incidents No Arrest Four Accidents with No Injuries
Burglary & Criminal Mischief – Occurred at 2809 Kennedy Road NE, a door frame and door were damaged, and .50 Cal Ammunition were taken, valued at $700.00 One Arrest • Cody Lee Martin, age 34 of Henagar, was arrested for DUI Four Accidents with No Injuries March 14, 2026 No Incidents and Three Arrests • Johnny Roberto Manuel, age 18 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Underage Consumption of Alcohol • Joseph Allen Breeden, age 55 of Macon, GA, was arrested for Theft of Property • Johnny Ladon Smith, age 31 of Mentone, was arrested for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia One Accident with Three Injuries • An accident occurred at Gault Ave N and Greenhill Blvd NW, Uriel Alexis Quinteros Avila, age 27 of Fort Payne, driving a 2013 Ford Mustang, struck Vicki S Wilson, age 57 of Valley Head, driving a 2017 Chevrolet Traverse. Transported to Dekalb Regional by Dekalb Ambulance Service were Vicki Wilson and two juvenile males. March 15, 2026 No Incidents and Two Arrests • A 17 year old juvenile male of Fort Payne was arrested for Underage Consumption of Alcohol • Leonardo Hoswaldo Alonzo, age 19 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Underage Consumption of Alcohol One Accident with No Injuries March 16, 2026 Incidents • Theft of Services – Occurred at 300 Grand Ave SW, charges of $36.25 were made on a fraudulent account • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $41.85 Three Arrests • Johnny Robtero Manuel, age 18 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Attempting to Elude a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, Public Intoxication and Obstructing Government Operations at 4:06 pm • Christopher Scott Allison, age 34 of Fyffe, was arrested for Theft of Property at 4:35 pm • Kiera Renee Marie Dore, age 26 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Domestic Violence at 9:10 pm No Accidents March 17, 2026 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $131.51 Three Arrests • Michael Christopher Bailey, age 52 of Section, was arrested for Public Intoxication • Christopher Wayne Roden, age 31 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Eluding a Police Officer • Brad Lorenzo McElrath, age 51 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency Two Accidents with No Injuries March 18, 2026 Incidents • Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card – Occurred at 939 Gault Ave N, charges of $1550.00 were made without authorization • Damaged Property – Occurred at 607 Grand Ave SW, a bumper on a 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer was damaged, valued at $500.00 Three Arrests • Gabriel David Gracien, age 33 of Vestavia Hills, was arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia • Trevor Antonio Onofre, age 23 of Pisgah, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear • Bobbie Jean Hall, age 37 of Huntsville, was arrested for Drug Trafficking, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Prescription Drugs Four Accidents with Two Injuries • An accident occurred at Gault Ave S and Playcore Drive SE, Coye Dean Neeley, age 70 of Fort Payne, driving a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, struck Gricelda Marroquin, age 70 of Collinsville, driving a 2009 Nissan. Marroquin was transported to Dekalb Regional by Dekalb Ambulance Service. • An accident occurred at 153 20th Street NE, Diane Alice Ratliff, age 87 of Fort Payne, driving a 2011 Saab XD, struck a pole. Ratliff was transported to Dekalb Regional by Dekalb Ambulance Service.
March 19, 2026
Incidents •
Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $5.07 • Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card – Occurred at 4006 Grand Ave SW, charges of $149.00 were made without authorization Two Arrests • Zion Ruthven Callender, age 19 of Crossville, was arrested for Theft of Property • Garrett Eugene Burk, age 63 of Dalton, GA was arrested for Public Intoxication Four Accidents with No Injuries
March 20, 2026
Incidents •
Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $22.91 • Damaged Property – Occurred at 1600 Adamsburg Road E, a windshield on a 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe was damaged, valued at $500.00 • Criminal Mischief – Occurred at 1701 Grand Ave NW, a door frame was damaged, valued at $250.00
The Sports Ledger www.TheSportsLedger.com
Alabama Ledger www.AlabamaLedger.com
PAGE 6A April 2026
CLASSIC CAR INDOOR AUCTION and PROJECT VEHICLE SALES CORRAL VEHICLE SALES CORRAL Saturday, May 16 at 10 A.M. (CDT)
• Outdoor PROJECT VEHICLE SALES CORRAL specific to project vehicles. • Bid live in person, by phone, or online. • Buy/Sell Fee is 6% for all Auction Vehicles. (9% for online bids). • Previews will be May 14th and May 15th from 9 AM until 5 PM. • Public entry fee for Previews and Auction will be a $20 per day or a 3-day pass for $40. (Age 12 and under free with paid adult). • Accessibility: Personal wheelchairs and mobility scooters are allowed. Golf carts are not allowed inside the building. • NO PETS are allowed unless the pet is a service animal. • Auction Vehicle Registration is $150 per vehicle (nonrefundable). • Project Sales Corral Vehicle Registration is $200 per vehicle (nonrefundable).
Car Auction to be held inside the old Kmart building located at 1525 Chestnut Bypass in Centre, Alabama.
DEADLINE for consignments is May 12th at 5:00 pm
Call Today 256.927.8900 to consign your vehicle.
1445 Clarence Chestnut Bypass, Centre, AL 35960 Phone: 256.927.8900 | Toll Free: 877.222.5720 R. Shane Swafford, ASL#1589 GANR#2635 www.swaffordauctiongroup.com
Visit www.swaffordauctiongroup.com for more pictures, terms, and information.
SPORTS LEDGER Established 2006 The April 2026 Page 1B Read More Online at www.thesportsledger.com Love Named UA Women's Basketball Coach
basketball position. He
coaching
By Brandon K. Pierce The Sports Ledger
it out of the park” with her elevator pitch during the interview process. “She has a well thought out plan in place,” said Byrne. Coach Love is originally from Luxora, Arkansas, and her story about growing up there, leaving to play college basketball, and her coaching journey brought a tear to Byrne’s eye during her introductory press conference. Folks in attendance, including the media, were challenged to look up Luxora. Well, challenge accepted. Luxora is a small town with a population of around 1000 people. It is located just across the state line, and only a few miles away from the Mississippi River. Coach Love grew up playing basketball and was named the 2005 Arkansas Miss Basketball. In 2006 she left the small- town life behind to play college basketball at Jones College.
believes that with her extensive SEC experience, which includes recruiting, Coach Love is the right choice for the Crimson Tide. He noted she has the energy and enthusiasm that Alabama needs to continue growing the women’s basketball program. Byrne added she will have ample resources as well, noting that Alabama has grown the women’s basketball budget by 170 percent over the past six years. Byrne said that marketing efforts will continue to be strong and that the University is working to stand out from the competition. He added that Alabama may not be the place for some student athletes if it is all about money. However, if a player hopes to maximize opportunities, grow as a person, and increase brand awareness, then the Capstone is the place to be.
TUSCALOOSA – The Alabama introduced Pauline Love as the 10th head women's basketball coach of the Crimson Tide during a press conference on Thursday, April 2, 2026. "This is a place with a Championship standard," said Love about the University. "I am incredibly honored to be your head coach." Coach Love said that her program at the Capstone will be built on three pillars, which are Toughness, Togetherness, and Trust. Love added that she University of plans to build a program that will include great players, as well as great people. "We're going to give you a team you can be proud of," she said. Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne was impressed by Coach Love, noting that she “knocked softball team is entering its second week as the nation's top-ranked team. The Mustangs remained No. 1 in the latest National Junior College Athletic Association Division I Softball Rankings, which were released on Monday, April 6, 2026. NACC received all 13 first-place votes following another 4-0 week in which it swept conference foe Snead State. The week was a historic one for the Mustangs, who after earning their first No. 1-ranking posted the two- year-old program's 50th win last on Thursday, April 2, 2026. Also freshman pitcher Addie Edwards pitched the
Photo By Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger
Pauline Love (center) has been named the Head Coach of the Women's Basketball program at the University of Alabama (UA). She is pictured with Alabama President Dr. Peter J. Mohler (left) and Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne (right).
A year later she joined the women’s basketball program at Southern Mississippi, where she played from 2007- 2010. She also played professionally, joining the WNBA Connecticut Sun
in 2010 and the French Professional League the following year. Coach Love has been assistant coach with five different college programs including three SEC programs: Arkansas (2017-
24), Alabama (2024-25) and Oklahoma (2025-26). This coming season will be her first year as a head coach. “We had a lot of interest in the job,” said Byrne about the women’s
NACC Softball Rank No. 1 The Northeast Alabama Community at No. 4, NACC spent two weeks ranked second
before moving to the No. 1 spot last week following its four-game series sweep of No. 12 Wallace State- Hanceville. NACC has outscored opponents 297-72 this season and leads the NJCAA in team batting average (.414). The Mustangs are also second nationally in fielding percentage (.975) and NACC pitchers are 10th in earned run average (2.02) and third in shutouts (15). Rounding out the NJCAA's Top-5 are No. 2-ranked Northwest Florida State College, No. 3 Florida Southwestern State College, No. 4 Santa Fe College (Florida) and Temple College (Texas).
Submitted Photo
NACC infielder Olivia Acuff
NACC was unranked in the NJCAA Division I preseason poll that was released in January, but the Mustangs debuted at No. 4 in the first in-season poll after opening the season 14-0. After a week at No. 3 followed by another week
program's first no-hitter on Saturday, April 4. The Mustangs are currently 35-1 on the season and have a four- game lead in the Alabama Community College Conference standings thanks to a 16-0 conference record.
Back-to-Back Masters champion Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts on the No. 18 green during the third round of the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on Saturday, April 11, 2026. He is the fourth player in history to successfully win two consecutive Masters. Photo Courtesy of the Masters
SEC Football Media Days
The Southeastern Conference has announced the appearance schedule for its annual SEC Football Kickoff Media Days, which is set to take place at the Tampa Marriott Water Street and JW Marriott on July 20-23, 2026. This will be the first time the city of Tampa and the state of Florida have hosted the SEC’s preseason media extravaganza. Dallas, Nashville and Atlanta have served as hosts the previous three years. A more detailed daily schedule with full television information, rotational breakdown and student-athletes attending will be available prior to the event in early July. SEC Network will once again bring the four-day event to a national audience. Names below are listed alphabetically by school and not an indicator of actual order of appearance each day. MONDAY, July 20 • Kentucky – Will Stein • Missouri – Eliah Drinkwitz • Oklahoma - Brent Venables • Tennessee – Josh Heupel TUESDAY, July 21 • Auburn – Alex Golesh • Georgia – Kirby Smart • South Carolina – Shane Beamer • Vanderbilt – Clark Lea WEDNESDAY, July 22 • Alabama – Kalen DeBoer • Florida – Jon Sumrall • Ole Miss – Pete Golding • Texas A&M – Mike Elko THURSDAY, July 23 • Arkansas – Ryan Silverfield • LSU – Lane Kiffin • Mississippi State – Jeff Lebby • Texas – Steve Sarkisian
Photo By Brandon K. Pierce, The Sports Ledger
Dekalb County Champions
Collinsville Senior Chalina Andres (#3) battles with Geraldine's Mattia Wang (#88) during the opening round of the 2026 DeKalb County Soccer Tournament on Thursday, April 2. The Panthers defeated the Bulldogs 2-1. Collinsville went on to claim a 4-0 victory over Sylvania to earn the program's second straight DeKalb County Soccer Championship. Gio Varquez was named the boy's tournament's MVP. Collinsville also won the Girls County Soccer Title. The Lady Panthers defeated Crossville 1-0 in the Championship. Melanie Cantor was the MVP of the Girls' Tournament. In softball, Plainview defeated Ider 12-0 to win the 2026 DeKalb County Softball Championship on April 11. It was the Lady Bears 10th straight County Softball Title. Plainview's AnnaLee Shrader was named the DeKalb County Tournament MVP.
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