Alabama Ledger May 2024
Congrats Class of 2024
A LABAMA L EDGER May 2024 Northeast Alabama Print Edition www.AlabamaLedger.com 16 Pages Published by The Sports Ledger, LLC
Ranked Choice Voting Banned signed Senate Bill 186, which will help protect the integrity of Alabama elections by banning the use of ranked choice voting. Instead of being able to vote for a single candidate, ranked choice voting Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has offers voters a choice of candidates to rank in order of preference. Candidates who receive 50 percent or more votes win automatically. However, if no candidate garners at least 50 percent of the votes cast, then the lowest scoring candidate is eliminated with their votes assigned to the other candidates. The process continues automatically until a single candidate reaches 50 percent. The new law prohibits the practice of ranked- choice voting in Alabama except in the case of electors who are entitled to vote absentee ballot under the federal Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. The law will take effect October 1, 2024.
Courtesy Crossville High School
Eric Ramirez-Diaz and Leidy Linares Ramirez are the 2024 Ledger Leader award recipients from Crossville High School Eric has a 4.1 GPA and plays Soccer for the Lions. Leidy has a 4.3 GPA and is a member of the Lady Lions Volleyball team and Danceline. She is also in the Art Club and has won several first place Ribbons. Find out about the other 2024 Ledger Leader awards inside this edition. Crossville's 2024 Ledger Leaders Illegal Squatting Alabama Governor Kay without authorization.
Submitted Photo
Boaz High School's Noah Sumners has officially committed to play college baseball at Marion Military Institute. Sumners has worked hard and overcame many obstacles in his life, including a heart defect. His family was told when Noah was born that he would never be able to play sports. However, he had a successful career at Boaz and he now has a chance to compete at the collegiate level. He was supported on signing day by his parents (seated) Misty and Andy Sumners, as well as (standing L-R) Boaz Athletic Director Josh Walker, Pirates Head Coach Adam Keenum Head, and Boaz High School Principal Chris Hayes. Read more about local outstanding athletes and the Class of 2024 Seniors inside this edition of the Alabama Ledger. Boaz Standout Is College Bound
Ivey has signed House Bill 182 in order to strengthen homeowners’ rights against squatters who illegally occupy their property. "It is apparent that more must be done to halt criminals from commandeering people’s homes,” said Ivey. The new law creates penalties for falsifying real estate documents and establishes a process, administered by local law enforcement, to quickly remove individuals who are occupying a dwelling
“In Alabama, private are paramount. This new law puts would-be squatters on notice that any attempt to hijack and take over someone’s home will be met with swift action by law enforcement. The best dwelling for an illegal squatter is a jail cell, and we in state government should never rest easy until all Alabama homeowners’ rights are fully protected," added Governor Ivey. The anti-squatting law will take effect June 1, 2024. property rights
North Alabama Travelers spent $4.7 billion in 2023
Albertville High School alumnus and current assistant principal Tyler Reeves has been named the principal of the Albertville Innovation Academy. Reeves is wrapping up his tenth year as an administrator at Albertville High School. Prior to becoming an assistant principal in 2016, he was the administrator of the former ACS Freshman Academy. He also served as the athletic director from 2016-2021. The Albertville Innovation Academy is a public school within the Albertville City School system that is focused on achieving the highest level of student success in an innovative environment that promotes academic excellence and applied career focus through unique partnerships with higher education, government and industry. Student learning will be centered around core academic studies and their passion for discovery inside a career academy that applies learned academic and technical skills to real-world projects as part of a team working with industry partners, higher education staff and Albertville City Schools faculty. The facility, which is expected to be completed by the end of May, will offers 14 pathways: Additive Manufacturing, AggieVision: Advertising Design, AggieVision: Television Production, Agriscience: Animal Science, Agriscience: Building and Construction, Agriscience: Plant Science, Cybersecurity, Health Science: Emergency Medicine, Health Science: Patient Care, Health Science: Sports Medicine, Precision Machining, Teaching and Training, Welding and Work-Based Learning. AIA students will also earn industry certifications and have opportunities to participate in dual enrollment for both core academic and CTE courses. Students will still be able to participate in extracurricular activities such as sports, bands, student leadership organizations, etc. They will also be able to run school-based enterprises and work in local businesses. AIA is accredited and will follow the same requirements set by the Alabama State Department of Education for graduation. Graduating from AIA will be a distinct achievement, and the diploma awarded will reflect this accomplishment of completing a specialized program in addition to core academic requirements. Graduation for AIA will take place alongside Albertville High School students in a joint ceremony. Tyler Reeves (center) is pictured with Assistant Superintendent Todd Watkins, (left) and Superintendent Dr. Bart Reeves (right). Albertville Innovation Academy Names Principal Submitted Photo
In 2023, travelers spent over $4.7 billion while visiting the 16 counties of the North Alabama region, representing a 10.1% increase over 2022, according to the Alabama Tourism Department. The $4.7 billion amount was up from $4.3 billion in 2022. Travel- related earnings showed a 7.1% growth from $1,258,500,183 in 2022 to $1,348,381,321 in 2023, and 49,523 individuals were employed directly and indirectly in the North Alabama tourism industry, a 5.5% increase. “In ten years, tourists’ expenditures in North Alabama have doubled, from $2.1 billion in 2013 to $4.7 billion in 2023,” said Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association President and CEO Tami Reist. “We continue to see our tourism industry grow as new hotels, RV parks and tiny home developments are popping up all across the region. These new developments will allow us to welcome even more visitors and more spending in the region and in turn, create more jobs, boost revenue for local businesses and encourage
local
infrastructure
The “2023 Alabama Tourism Economic Report,” was conducted from a model created by Dr. Keivan Deravi, an economist in the School of Business at Auburn University in Montgomery. Dr. Deravi said that the travel industry has a direct impact on the state's total economy. Alabama State law requires that 75 percent of the 4 percent state lodging tax paid by all hotel guests goes directly into the state General Fund that the Alabama Legislature spends for services to all residents. The $86.4 million of the Legislature's portion of the lodgings tax benefits all residents of the state, the economist said. Without those funds from tourism, each household in Alabama would have had to pay an additional $707 in taxes just to maintain current service levels. The 16 Counties comprising the North Alabama region consist of Blount, Cherokee, Colbert, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan and Winston counties.
developments. am extremely proud of our 16 counties and the collective efforts of our tourism partners - tourism bureaus, economic development I offices and chambers of commerce - who continue the efforts to make sure that tourism is a vital economic driver to their respective counties," she added. Based on the primary and secondary data, it is estimated that more than 28.8 million people visited the State of Alabama during 2023, and spent over $23.5 billion, representing an increase of 4.8% over 2022 spending. For every $1 in Alabama’s travel-related expenditures, the state retains a total of $0.33. In 2023, $1.4 billion of state and local tax revenues were generated by travel and tourism activities. "Alabama continued its streak of remarkable success in the tourism and travel industry. Across all corners of the state, there was a notable increase in tourism-related benefits, demonstrating the industry's capacity to thrive even amidst economic fluctuations," said Alabama Governor Kay Ivy.
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PAGE 2A May 2024
Photo Courtesy Douglas High School
The Members of the Class of 2024 at Douglas High School include: (listed alphabetically) Stacy Izabel Agueda, Natalie Agustin Franco, Andrew Cruz Amaya Ramirez, Hania Abigail Andablo, Belinda Aragon Cruz, Emanuel Aragon Cruz, Arleth Arreaga, Matthew David Avans, Ximena Ayala, Carissa Marie Balash, Dewain Scott Bean, America Janet Benitez Garcia, Ethan Webster Blankenship, Andrew Joseph Borbon, Brenden Michael Bresett, Lexie Nicole Brock, Emily Elizabeth Bryant, Christian Burks, Cooper Ashton Butler, Natalia Ashlyn Reese Bynum, Jaycob Makai Calloway, Carlie Ann Camp, Ashton Kyle Cannon, Eric Hernandez Cantellano, Andy Lee Cathey, Landon Reed Centers, Alan Daniel Cervante Castro, Emma Leigh Chaffin, Lauren Alea Chaffin, Karlee Dawn Chamblee, Alexis Elayne Clark, Jackson Cade Clements, Dayris Andrea Conriquez Contreras, Landon Orin Whittington Cooper, Darleene Lucia Cortes Marquez, Elizabeth Kate Crowder, Esteban Cruz Jaimes, Marie Angel Silva Custodio, Tye Reese Daniel, Irvin Daniel De La Cruz Analco, Emily Luiza Diaz, Tanner Andrew Dorsett, Giavanna Marie Dye, Jennifer Yesenia Figueroa Velasquez, Grace Michelle Fleming, Asusena Magaly Franco Aragon, Juan Lino Franco Aragon, Anthony Lief Franco Rosas, Analilia Franco-Rosas, Macy Brooklynne Frederick, Erick Epifanio Frias Villalobos, Emily Noemi Garcia, Jenni Gonzalez Trejo, Alison Alexandra Gonzalez, Eric Guzman, Ethan Alexander Harris, Makayla Faith Harris, Maddie Lynn Hayes, Alexander Hernandez, Fabian Hernandez, Davis Matthew Jackson, Jordan Danielle Jackson, Makayla Alliyah Jenkins, Brittney Cheyanne Jones, Aimee Juarez, Regan Danielle Kliewer, Alexander Howard Kreidler, Phillip Blake Landrum, Kaitlyn Ann Law, Gabriel Alexander Lawrence, Aaron Chase Travis Lewis, LeAnna Michelle Lewis; Haley Magaly Lopez Sanchez, Bernardo Lopez, Isabel Esmerelda Macias, Ulises Daniel Franco Martinez, Hunter Wesley Matthews, Bethany Alexandra McLane, Anjanel Bautista Messer, Fredy Miguel Tomas, Edwin Juan Miguel, Edwin Molina Tule, Caleb Jon Moore, Garrett Dewayne Moore, Yonatan Moreno, Joshua Robert-Gabriel Musacchia, Ivy Naomi Negrete Oropeza, Amy Emilsen Olvera Saravia, Rickey Wayne Pannell, Byron Jose Pascual Pascual, Heather Michelle Pell, Maritza Perez Velazquez, Logan Collier Puckett, Chiara Quintiliani, Brenley Faith Ragon, Ramon Guerra Ramos, Drennon Alexander Reagan, Francisco Javier Rios- Guzman, Raul Antonio Rodriguez, Skyann Marie Rodriguez, Bryleigh Elizabeth Rooks, Bailey Kay Rothgeb Worley, Kenya Andrea Sanchez, Crimson Leigh Sanders, Erica Sebastian Pedro, Vicki Tomas Sebastian; Thomas Alexander Shedd; Jackson Paul Sims, Bonita Esperanza Smalley, Angela Jade Smith, Jaden Leanne Smith, Michael Elijah Eugene Smith, Perla Cecilia Solis Tzintzun, William Jaylen Spain, Phillip Anthony Sparks, Giaus Dion Spurgeon, Michael Damien Swack, Kortney Michelle Taylor, Jonathon Dewayne Terrell, Avery Ronald Thomas, Baylee Lashea Thompson, Keyla Mayren Torres Laureano, Gabriella Michele Torres, Tyler Cameron Treece, Cruz Valdez Sanchez, Maria Guadalupe Valentin Reynoso, Kevin Vazquez Rios, Nadia Yulissa Velasco, Hugo Velazquez Garcia, Armando Villanueva Renteria, Trenton Delane Whisenant, Emmalee Arlin Willoughby, Eric Malone Winkles, Daniel Harper Wright, Samuel Augustus Wright, Angela I Zamberlan, and Juan Pablo Zamudio. Douglas High School Senior Class of 2024
Albertville High School has released the names of the students in the Top Ten Percent for the Class of 2024. Albertville does not have a Valedictorian or Salutation. Additionally the school did not send a full list of names or a group picture available at press time. The Top Ten Percent includes: Jessalyn Riannah Alford, Christen Marie Amos, Janet Antonio Juarez, Heidi Barragan Cruz, Buck, Emma Kay, Alex Alexsander Calel Lopez, Lukas Nicholi Carter, Brayan Adolfo Castro, Michele Cerrillo, Ana Cesilia Chacaj Gutierres, Caroline Brooks Cochran, Jaxon Stone Dendy, Eulalia Asucena Domingo Miguel, Mason Andrew George, Emma Cate Greer, Levi Cole Hester, Elizabeth Leeann Jones, Thomas Reed Kitchens, Madelynn Grace Lane, Emily Robecca Lang, Ricardo Larios Lorenzo, Dalton Conner Lewis, Alexis Pedro Lopez Diaz, Lindsey Marquez, Harrison Turner McCreless, Charli Karissa Moses, Kaeli Elizabeth Mostella, Julia Ava Owens, Kyleigh Faith Painter, Michael Andrew LeCroy Reyes, Luke Isaiah Roberson, Danna Karina Sandoval Sanchez, Jon Wesley Seay, Karlin Delana Cassels Shirey, Nathan Liam Stuart, Hailie Leigh Swearingen, Owen Anthony Thibodaux, and Roxanne Ella Witherow. Albertville Names Top Ten Percent
Fyffe Class of 2024 Photo Courtesy of Cheryl Boydston, ABC Photography
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PAGE 3A May 2024
Several area citizens, law enforcement and elected officials attended a ground breaking ceremony for a new Cherokee County Courthouse on Thursday, May 2, 2024. The new facility will be over 30,000 sq ft. and it is being built in downtown at the former location of the Baptist Church. The current Cherokee County Courthouse was built in the 1930's prior to World War II. The number of cases handled in Cherokee County has reportedly increased over 80% in recent years and the current building has outgrown the space needed by county officials. Some of the comments made during the groundbreaking ceremony called the new Courthouse a "Jewel" and "Symbol" for Cherokee County. Groundbreaking held for new Cherokee County Courthouse Photo By Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger
Thrill-seeking athletes who are not afraid of getting muddy, wet and pushed to the limit will be taking part in Gadsden’s Barbarian Challenge, a six-mile obstacle course run through scenic Noccalula Falls Park. The annual extreme competition is set for June 15, 2024. Registration is open at www.barbarianchallenge.com and contestants will want to take note of a new grand prize giveaway at this year’s event. The Barbarian Challenge course is approximately six miles long and includes more than 20 natural and challenging human-made obstacles and tough terrain. The course takes participants into the Black Creek Gorge and up close and personal with Noccalula Falls. It is considered one of the south’s most scenic obstacle course race. The festival area and start/finish lines will be by the waterfall area and not on the traditional battlefield. New this year is the Barbarian Challenge Grand Prize Giveaway, sponsored by Greater Gadsden Area Tourism, Noccalula Falls Park and Downtown Gadsden, Inc. “To encourage people to book lodging in Etowah County and make a weekend of it, we are giving them some incentive,” says Tina Morrison, executive director for Greater Gadsden Area Tourism. “Registrants who show their Etowah County lodging receipt at check-in this year will be entered into the Barbarian Challenge Grand Prize Giveaway for 2025.” The grand prize consists of free entry into the 2025 Barbarian Challenge donated by Noccalula Falls Park, a two night stay donated by Greater Gadsden Area Tourism and River Rocks Landing and a $200 gift certificate to spend in downtown Gadsden donated by Downtown Gadsden, Inc. Race or “horde” times are at 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. for competitors and 9:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. and for non-competitors. All finishers receive a Barbarian medal. The overall female and male winners from the 8:00 a.m. horde will receive a custom Barbarian battle ax. The awards ceremony will start at approximately noon and there will be food, drink and beer vendors during the event. The Barbarian Challenge is for those 13 years old and older. Anyone under the age of 15 must have a parent or guardian present to sign a consent waiver and run with them. The smallest barbarians can participate in the Kid’s Barbarian Challenge competition, sponsored by The Factory Gadsden, from 8 to 11 a.m. The race is open to kids 5 to 12 years old and is approximately .6 miles and includes mud. Finishers will receive a medal, t-shirt and goody bag. Registration is available on race day (t-shirts may or may not be available at this time). Participants must show up an hour before desired horde time to register on race day. Packet pick up and race day registration will be in the Kiwanis Pavilion. Registration fees are as follows: A packet pick-up party will be held Friday, June 14th from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Kiwanis Pavilion at Noccalula Falls Park. Barbarian Challenge and Kid’s Barbarian Challenge participants can pick up their race packets and visit with other competitors. Held at Noccalula Falls Park, located at 1500 Noccalula Road in Gadsden, the Barbarian Challenge is organized and staged by the City of Gadsden’s Parks and Recreation Department and is presented by Greater Gadsden Area Tourism. Pets are not allowed and the event is held rain or shine. Admission and parking are free to spectators. For more info, visit www.barbarianchallenge.com or call Christina Richardson at 256-549-4663 ext. 3. March 1st – May 15th, 2024 – $60 non-competitive / $70 competitive May 16th – June 12th, 2024 – $75 non-competitive / $85 competitive June 12th – Race Day 2024 – $85 non-competitive / $95 competitive Barbarian Challenge To Be Held at Noccalula Falls
Start Strong Scholarships available for 2024 graduates It’s not too late to score apply is July 1.
awarded a graduating high school senior scholarship may not qualify for additional funds. Students interested in the scholarship should go to www.gadsdenstate. edu/apply and complete the admissions application if they have not done so already. A 2024 Graduating High School Senior Application also must be completed. The application can be found at www.gadsdenstate.edu/ scholarships. Click on the scholarship application button and login using your Gadsden State email and default password. Questions can be directed to scholarships@ gadsdenstate.edu.
a scholarship at Gadsden State. For high school graduates who plan to enroll full-time the college may be able to pay the tuition and fees for six credit hours for Fall 2024 semester and six credit hours for Spring 2025 semester. According to a press release from the college, high school graduates from the Class of 2024 may be eligible for a scholarship to Gadsden State Community College that covers up to 12 hours during the upcoming academic year. The Start Strong Scholarship covers up to six hours of tuition and fees for the 2024 fall semester and six hours for the 2025 spring semester. Deadline to
“Gadsden State is offering an opportunity for graduating seniors to secure essential financial aid as they continue their educational journey,” said Andy Green, dean of Student Services. “Our College aims to alleviate some of the burdens associated with accessing quality education.” The Start Strong Scholarships, which are worth over $2,000, are available to students who will be enrolled full time for both semesters. The scholarship is not limited to those living in the Gadsden State service area and will pay in-state tuition for out- of-state students. Students who have already been
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PAGE 4A May 2024
Brooks and Black lead FPHS Class of 2024 SALUTATORIAN Lizzie Black, daughter
VALEDICTORIAN Mallory Brooks, daughter of Karla Wells and James Brooks, is Fort Payne’s Class of 2024 valedictorian. Mallory has a grade point average of 4.47 and a composite superscore of 31 on the ACT. Mallory is a proud member of National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Science Club, and Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America. Mallory has also developed a passion for the culinary arts throughout high school, especially baking and pastry, and would love to pursue it outside high school. After graduation, Mallory plans to attend Northeast Alabama Community College to pursue a degree in business.
of Shawn and Christi Black, is Fort Payne’s Class of 2024 salutatorian. Lizzie has a grade point average of 4.50 and a superscore of 31 on the ACT. Lizzie is a member of National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, FPHS’s Drama department, and the Yearbook Staff. During her tenure on the competitive drama team, they have won a state title for best Technical Production and Best In Show (top 5). Lizzie was also chosen for the All- Star Cast award during her senior year performance. She also represented FPHS as the school mascot and Mrs. FPHS her senior year. Lizzie plans to attend the University of Alabama to study computer science.
Photo Courtesy of Andy Vance Sylvania Class of 2024
Ider Class of 2024 Photo Courtesy of Cheryl Boydston, ABC Photography
Photo Courtesy of Andy Vance
Fort Payne High School is set to hold it's 2024 Graduation Ceremony on May 23 at Wildcat Stadium. The Members of the Class of 2024 at Fort Payne High School include: (listed alphabetically) Isabella Danay Aguilar-Munoz, Billy Agustin Lopez, Emma Grace Akins, Kirra Michelle Alonso, Charles Tyler Anthony, Alexander Antonio, Jocelyn Marie Armstrong, Anthony Avalos Cruz, Maggie Lynn Baker, Shyanne Rae Barnhill, Cristian Barrientos Aviles, Maria Lourdes Basilio Coj, Dawson Lee Bates, Kaeden Austin Bates, Kaley Raine Beason, Barrett Alan Bible, Jada Marie Birgans, Lizzie Kate Black, Whitten Lee Blackwell, Nathan Allen Blankenship, Bennett Blanks, Clinton Hunter Blansit, Bailey Debranae Blevins, Joshua Lewis Blevins, Lucas Brayden Blevins, Jacob Callan Breed, Camryn Rose Brewis, Collyn Reese Brewis, Savannah Riley Brisendine, Hunter Lee Brooks, Mallory Lee Brooks, Katelyn Danae Brown, Jacob Allen Brownfield, Brycen Hugh Buffington, Saddie Madison Burrage, Jacob Wallace Burt, Jaxson Cole Cagley, Diana Sofia Campero Lemus, Jareth Marcelo Cardoso Alcantar, Xander Armando Carrillo, Anna Grace Carter, Charlie Mae Redford Chatman, Mary Isabel Cifuentes Tomas, Carmella Cisneros, Blake Brayden Cleckler, Skyler Michael Cody, Reese Tillman Colburn, Yadier Azael Colunga, Anslie Jaden Combs, Brandon Skyler Gomez Conner, Kippy Scott Gilliam Copeland, Adam Francisco Corona, Nicholas Kean Cowart, Emma Campbell Crawford, Emma Elizabeth Crow, Jovanny Blake Cruz, Olivia Jade Cruz, Dominique Davis, Hayden Terrell Davis, Ashley Simone De Brito, Jani Yaret De Paz, Stephanie Daniella Diaz Rocha, Domingo Alfredo Diego Juan, Luis Rodrigo Diego Mateo, Isabela Paulina Domingo Matias, Micaela Marie Domingo-Pascual, Ana Maria Domingo-Tomas, Argelia Susana Dominguez, Caleb Houston Dorough, Kaden D'Erik Dubose, Makayla Grace Dutton, Miranda Alexius Ellis, Aubrey Nicole Evans, Joshua Ketron Everett, Emma Victoria Evett, Marissa Lareu Fairley, Maria Cristalina Felipe-Matias, Omar Perez Figueroa, Nolan Jones Fowler, Elvira Francisco Alonzo, Jonny Francisco Alonzo, Deborah Francisco Domingo, Liza Francisco Francisco, Juan Francisco Jacinto, Kaley Noemi Francisco Manuel, Junior Francisco Miguel, Elisa Francisco, Jesus Francisco-Andres, Marissa Francisco-Baltazar, Giovanni Francisco-Pascual, Lillie Kate Freeman, Estella Roxanne Gallegos, Ashley Garcia, Miranda Garcia-Favela, Chloe Danielle Garrard, Gustavo Tomas Gaspar Manuel, Cecilia Renea Gifford, Michael Gomez Juan, Susana Abigail Gomez, Angely Marian Gonzalez Gutierrez, Brylan Diona Gray, Elliott Carter Guice, Judson Warner Guice, Candy Yajaira Guillen Gordillo, Antonio Guzman-Garcia, Christopher Logan Hairell, Savannah Grace Hall, Brayden Shane Hamilton, Hailey Jade Hamilton, Wesley Andrew Hamilton, Weston Alexander Hamilton, Ryan Allen Harcrow, Zoey Elizabeth Hardeman, Lance William Hardinger, Carson Hugh Henderson, Mario Alexander Hernandez Rojas, Alondra Hernandez, Henry Tomas Hernandez, Katie Lopez Hernandez, Valeria Danae Hernandez, Lauren Grace Highfield, Macy Lynn Hignutt, Jaxon Cooper Hilyer, Sophia Estelle Hood, Lucas Fate Howell, Mckenna Lashay Jackson, Caleb Thomas Jacobs, Jacob Alan Jennings, Isaias Raul Jimenez Francisco, Adriano Angel Tomas Jimenez, Maria Guadalupe Jimenez, Avry Faith Johnson, Alice Ann Jones, Alicia Juan Sebastián, Sandra Juan-Sebastian, Neida Juarez-Chun, Aryana Michelle Karshner, Jalyn Areana Keele, Samantha Grace Keith, Caden Shane Kilgore, Katie Marie Kindred, Avery Cole King, Coleton Elijah Lee King, Layla Elizabeth Kirby, Reese Brianne Kuhn, Kali Mikal LaGrone, Emily Ann Landry, Kendle Leigh Larson, Aryanna Lopez Orozco, Jessica Lopez Pascual, Kayla Jacqueline Lopez Tut, Nevaeh Ryan Loy, Catarina Manuel Jacinto, Abraham Manuel Marcos, Bryan Roberto Manuel, Alex Marcos Jimenez, Ismael Marcos Jimenez, Gustavo Marcos Mateo, Carmelina Tomas Marroquin, Miguel Francisco Martin, Gustavo Martinez Francisco, Laura Rosa Mateo Manuel, Evelyn Lourdes Mateo Mateo, Roselyn Matias Santos, Molly Katherine Mauney, Joseph Anthony Mayo, Ethan Douglas McElhaney, Braedyn Heath McWhirter, Isaac Willie Meadows, Madison Taylor Meadows, Daniela Medina, Briseyda Mejia Gonzalez, Russbel Jafeth Mendoza Ochoa, Dale Robert Merrill, Jaqueline Miguel Dominguez, Samuel Allen Moses, Riley Dewayne Naylor, Alexus Breanne Nixon, Caitlyn Grace O'Shields, Jocelyn Valeria Olvera, Andre Pascual Francisco, Maria Floridalma Pascual Pablo, Adrian Salinas Pascual Pedro, Rosalba Pascual-Francisco, Maggie Louise Patterson, Wilson Jeffrey Patton, Zackary Allenray Payne, Chloe Faith Payton, Oliver Zaine Perea, Andrea Perez Cinto, Daniel Perez Felipe, Lisset Perez Hernandez, Josue Escobar Perez, Dakota Gage Perry, Abigail Grace Phillips, Elisabeth Kate Pinholster, Charles Taft Pope, James Nathaniel Pope, Hayden Turner Presley, Alexis Elizabeth Reed, Danali Skyler Richardson, Daisy Guadalupe Rivera, Daisy Annette Robles Cazares, Christopher Rocha Luna, Orlando Rodriguez-Valdez, Karma Jeanine Riley Rush, Naomi Guadalupe Saenz, Miguel Andres Santiago, Mayra Del Carmen Santos Zavala, Jorge Nery Aguilar Serrano, Mariah Mae Shannon, Alexis Faith Shrader, Nathan Allen Simpson, Adrian Nicole Smith, Jay Alan Smith, Kenlea Carrington Smith, Madison Leigh Smith, Brigden Storm Snyder, Daisy Araceli Soto-Calel, Kinsley Paige St John, Luke Owen Stephens, Dawson Ryan Stiefel, Eryk Emanuel Tambunan, Maryella Claire Tate, Brayden Wayne Templeton, Kyleigh Shyann Thomas, Triston Hunter Thomas, Rebecca Tomas Francisco, Fredy Tomas Jose, Deborah Tomas- Francisco, Lucio Alexander Tomas-Jimenez, Sophia Elizabeth Trammell, Kimberly Trejo-Xiloj, Heydi Esmeralda Tut, Jamille Lucresia Tzoc Bulux, Henry Eliseo Vasquez Aguilar, Isabella Rose Vaughn, Jackson Davis Vaughn, Alexis Vega Robles, Juan Daniel Vela, Shelbee Cheyenne Venable, Cheyssmy Santa Vicente-Pelico, Hunter Blake Villarreal, Hanna Abigail Washington, Victoria Cooper Waters, Emma Rae Watts, Kaliyah Lacie Webb, Kaileigh Aneliese Wehunt, Emilee Kathryn Welden, MaryJayne Regan Whaley, Brianna Morgan Williams, Tiffany Ann Williams, Clayton Tyler Wooten, Jordan Tyreke Wright, Rory Aaron Meadows Wright, Mary Katherine Wynn, Sierra Gyorgyi Young, and Josue Zacarias Perez. Fort Payne High School Senior Class of 2024
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PAGE 5A May 2024
High Failure Rate By Brandon K. Pierce Publisher There is a high failure rate among several Northeast Alabama High Schools. I am not talking about students that are not making the grade, I am talking about the leadership at schools and their priorities. The Alabama Ledger contacted almost every high school in our five county coverage either through email, or a personal visit, about both our Ledger Leader awards and our graduation coverage plans. These were both simple tasks. We ask the schools to nominate two junior student athletes with a 3.80 GPA or higher for our annual Ledger Leader awards. We also ask for a group picture of the senior class, as well as a list of names and the Class of 2024 Valedictorian and Salutatorian. By the way did you know that most schools do not announce the top two students until graduation night and some only do a top 10%. Maybe in the future all schools will go back to that tradition and announce the both the Val and Sal ahead of time. It would be great to honor those students in the newspaper for all their hard work. I mean it's not like getting a participation trophy for just showing up to class. Both opportunities were free and a way to recognize and honor area students. Some schools stepped up to the plate and provided this information, as you will see in this issue. A big A+ and thank you to these schools. However, most of the high schools missed the boat and failed completely. Many of the schools said that would send information and did not, and some schools did not even respond at all. Why? That's a good question. I understand some schools might not make a group cap and gown picture until graduation night. Well great, contact us and let us know that. Even better, make a picture and send us one for next month's issue. Our email is AlabamaLedger@gmail.com. A few schools did contact the newspaper and will be sending graduation info in following the 2024 commencement ceremonies. Hopefully, they will do that, so that we can publish their senior picture next month. So what about the Ledger Leader awards which honors junior student athletes? Surely, it is possible to nominate two deserving students. Well, many schools did not. What's wrong with our school system? Well, that might be a question that would take more than this column to answer. Let's just hope more have a passing grade next year. And, for the ones that had an A+ this year we appreciate all the help. Have a great summer! Guntersville High School is set to hold its 2024 Graduation ceremony on Friday, May 17 at Chorba-Lee Stadium. This year's Valedictorian is Carson Drake Brown and the 2024 Salutatorian is Carter Wilson Britt. Rounding out the 2024 Top 10 at Guntersville is Adeline Grace Smith, Kendall Brook Teall, Emma Nichole Stanley, Madalyn Grace Campbell, Kiley Brooke Bonds, Hudson Cole Miles, Kennedy Elizabeth Brown, and Cade William Altom. As of press time no other information was available. A group cap and gown picture is set to be made at senior awards night on May 16, 2024 and we hope to be able to publish that photo in the June edition of the Alabama Ledger. Guntersville Top 10
Cornerstone Christian Academy in Rainsville has announced the graduating Class of 2024. As of press time this group has been awarded $1,115,930 in scholarships. Caroline Joyhart Yates is the 2024 Valedictorian and Lucas Jackson Ashley is the 2024 Salutatorian. Their classmates (including the top 10) are: Sarah Ellen Andrews (#3), Daniel Gene Baugh, Traci Alyvia Raye Blizzard, Daxson Gregory Crow, Keely Faith Edmondson (#5), Lauren Michelle Fitzpatrick (#6), JayDan Mack Haynes (#10), Regan Hope Lambert (#8), John Tyler Lawton, Hayden Trent Maness, Isabella Grace Manus (#9), William Tyler O'Dell, Kaiden Talley O'Tinger, Christian Kahne Phillips, Dakota Ann Rimas (#7), Andrew Jamison Simpson, Alexis Lashae Stallings (#4), and Lilian Isabella Wooten. Cornerstone Christian Senior Class of 2024
Photos Courtesy of Cornerstone Christian Academy
Photo Courtesy of Geraldine High School
The Members of the Class of 2024 at Geraldine High School include: (listed alphabetically) Carlos Andres Juan, Austyn Banks, Hallie Burns, Rodrigo Cadena Sanchez, Mauricio Calderon Balcazar, Valeria Casas Callejas, Lynsey Chavis, Jaxon Colvin, Jon Conley, Jayse Cook, Brooklynn Dauer, Juan Domingo, Dylan Driver, Kyley Dunn, Riley Edwards, Nathan Ewing, Danny Felipe-Diego, Alyssa Fincher, Braylon Fricks, Annet Garcia Espinoza, Moses Garcia, Madison Gentry, Brock Gilbert, Isaac Gonzalez, Sarai Gonzalez, Brooklyn Hall, Sawyer Hanrahan, Alex Hernandez Callejas, Eduardo Hernandez, Jason Hernandez, Kobe Hill, Jessica Ixcoy Ixcoy, Connor Johnson, Lora Johnson, Natalie Johnson, Tanya Juan Bartolome, Camila Juan Domingo, Melly Juan Gaspar, Hayven Kight, Natalie Lang, David Lara Gijon, Adrian Lara Moreno, Odalis Lugo-Rodriguez, Carlos Mann, Giovanni Mata Salazar, Ethan McGowan, Marisol Molina Sanchez, Raven Moses, Brian Norton, Brodie Norwood, Brayan Orea Montero, Emely Ortiz Balcazar, Natalee Osteen, Hannah Paul, Cristian Peralta Martinez, Domingo Perez Rafael, Ayden Pope, Jackson Powell, Alysha Prestwood, Anecia Quinn, Lexie Ramirez, Shawn Reyes, Isabel Rogers, Robert Rogers, Harley Salers, Sherlin Santos, Jacob Shepherd, Kyle Sims, Chloe Smith, Obie Smith, Kaleb Spears, Emma Stephenson, Danial Stover, River Walling, Kaitlynn Walters, Alisa Watson, Nathaniel West, and Claudia Zavala Santoyo Geraldine Senior Class of 2024
The Sports Ledger www.TheSportsLedger.com
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 Edna Fay Simmons, age 87, of Albertville Sharon Eileen Ford, age 86, of Martling Community David William Davies, age 58, of Boaz Vera Margaret Collum Hammer, age 96, of Albertville Harold Lavon Childress, age 74, of Asbury Sherman D. Tidmore, age 74, of Albertville Joyce Corbin, age 91, of Highpoint Community Adams-Buggs Funeral Home in Gadsden Patricia Williams, age 77, of Gadsden James Lionell Pair, age 71, of Gadsden Josephine Stover-Robinson, age 97, of Gadsden Albertville Memorial Funeral Home Stephen Zmolek, age 40, of Boaz Kathy Sherline Jackson, age 69, of Douglas Joe Nathaniel Lang, age 71, of Boaz Bonnie Mae Gary, age 80, of Albertville John Hull Kerr Jr., age 81, of Birmingham Aliska Benjamin, age 58, of Albertville Liff Daniel, age 85, of Guntersville Burt Funeral Home James Melvin Edwards, age 79, of Lyerly, GA James Ray Young, age 82, of Valley Head Carr Funeral Home in Guntersville Jeffery Mark Noblitt, age 53, of Guntersville Evelyn Doris Keller, age 77, of Waveland, MS Suzanne Ruth Saint, age 82, of Grant Athel Eugene Chandler, passed away at age 86 James L. Smith, age 87, of Guntersville Joseph Frances Lang, age 77, of Albertville Collier-Butler Funeral Home David Thomas Rowland, age 80, of Gadsden Lynda Bohannon White, age 79, of Hokes Bluff Catherine Donna Wadsworth, age 73, Gadsden Darren McKinley Clonts, age 56, of Gadsden Mark DeWayne Richardson, age 61, of Memphis, TN Carolyn J. White, age 75, of Boaz Mike Veal, Jr., age 71, of Albertville Gary David Nichols, age 68, of Gadsden Terry Randall Gibbs, age 71, of Gadsden Scott Lee Rickles, age 52, of Southside Serena Kambrielle Miller, age 27, of Gadsden Barbara Owens Robinson, age 85, of Gadsden Jeffery Glenn Garrett, age 65, of Gadsden Collinsville Funeral Home Deborah Ann Walls Redditt, age 74, of Collinsville John Roche Howland Jr., age 91, of Fort Payne Cornerstone Funeral Chapel in Ider John Wesley Love, age 70, of Henagar Henry Pauling White, Jr., age 67, of Henagar Anita Faye Raper, age 57, of South Pittsburgh, TN Darren Wayne Gentle, age 56, of Higdon Claylan Verdell Hawkins, age 61, of Trenton, GA Sidney Owens Roebuck Jr., age 72, of Mountain Brook Gary Floyd Tomaschefsky, age 77, of Henagar Verlie Hammond Stone, age 92, of Henagar Winfred Welden, age 72, of Flat Rock Barbara Ann Smith Welden, age 66, of Henagar Charles Rex Hall, age 65, of Pisgah Melvin Eugene Hanawalt, age 77, of Flat Rock Peggy Sue Lindsey Hand, age 66, of Higdon Judith Gargus Hodge, passed away at age 82 Mickie Jane Pruitt, age 78, of Gadsden Phillip Todd Nolen, age 49, of Jacksonville JoAnn Kilgore, age 93, of Boaz Joyce Campbell Hooton, age 90, of Gadsden Roberta Janice Smith, age 87, formerly of Glencoe Glenda Simmons, age 88, formerly of Gadsden Edgar Augustus Pettit, Jr., passed away at age 93 John Sullivan II, age 82, of Gadsden William Ray Minshew, age 67, of Glencoe Janice Carol Owens Gore, age 77, of Gadsden Deborah McDonald, age 70, of Hokes Bluff Nannie Carolyn Elkins, age 81, of Glencoe Crossville Memorial Chapel William Fred Roberson, age 67, of Crossville Rebecca "Becky" Lynn Renfroe Little, age 61, of Crossville Etowah Memorial Chapel Crestwood Funeral Home in Gadsden
PAGE 6A May 2024
According to DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, law enforcement agents had nine trafficking cases for methamphetamine and seized approximately 2,742 grams of methamphetamine during April. Agents also seized 1,578 grams marijuana. On April 1, Corrections Officers with the DeKalb County Detention Center conducted a search of an inmate, during the search a bag with a crystal-like substance suspected to be methamphetamine was located concealed on Kristopher Lee Keef (34 of Fort Payne). Keef was charged with Bondsman off Bond, Promote Prison Contraband 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear. On April 4, Corrections Officers were conducting a search of inmates after observing a male inmate throwing something into a cell. Officers found the substance and identified it as marijuana. Davian Oshea Lewis (39 of Gadsden) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Promote Prison Contraband 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and one warrant for failure to appear. On April 5, Officers with the Powell Police Department responded to a call of shoplifting at the Dollar General on Hwy 35. Upon arrival, Officers made contact with Timothy Lucas Roberson (42 of Grant) and recovered the items stolen. During a search of Roberson’s vehicle, 86 prescription narcotic pills were found in which Roberson did not have a prescription. Roberson was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Theft of Property 4th. On April 6, Officers with the Sylvania Police Department conducted a traffic stop on Al Hwy 75 near Blue Pond Blvd finding methamphetamine in the vehicle. Dakota Ray Smith (30 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On April 7, Officers with the Fyffe Police Department responded to a residence on Campbell Street on a call of someone using drugs. When officers arrived, Seth Anthony Shrader (18 of Fyffe) told officers he had taken some shrooms and used a THC vape. DAS arrived and medically cleared Shrader. During a search of the residence, officers found more shrooms, kratom and THC vapes. Shrader was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled substances (x3) and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On April 16, State Probation and Parole arrested Nequita Denise Atherly (37 of Sylvania) for a violation. During the booking in process of Atherly, she was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Atherly was charged with DIP-Probation, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Promote Prison Contraband 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Probation Violation. On April 17, Officers with the Collinsville Police conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 68 finding the driver, Crystal Simpson Graham (39 of Collinsville), to be under the influence. During a search of the vehicle, xanex was located in which Graham had no prescription. Officers then went to Graham’s residence to check on a juvenile that had been left unattended. During a search of the residence over 70 grams of methamphetamine was found. Brent Lowery (45 of Collinsville) was also found in the residence. During a search of Lowery’s vehicle, drug paraphernalia and US currency were found. Graham was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Trafficking in any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, DUI (controlled substance), Promote Prison Contraband 2nd and Tampering with Physical Evidence. Lowery was charged with Trafficking in any Illegal Drug and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. On April 24 Narcotics Agents conducted a traffic stop on DeKalb County Road 169. Authorities found the driver to be in possession of fentanyl. Dustin Scott Wooten (32 of Trenton Ga) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Hold for Agency. Also on April 24 Narcotics Agents stopped a vehicle on County Road 169 and County Road 155 finding methamphetamine in the vehicle. Tyler Blake Campbell (30 of Trenton, GA) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Hold for Agency. Sheena Elaine Haggard (27 of Meridanville) was charged with Probation Violation, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 4 warrants for Failure to Appear. In a third incident on April 24, Narcotics Agents attempted to stop a vehicle on County Road 812. The vehicle refused to stop, leading agents on a short pursuit. Once the vehicle stopped, agents took William Cecil Bowman (31 of Ider) into custody. Bowman was charged with Attempt to Elude, Resisting Arrest, Reckless Endangerment and DUI (controlled Substance). On April 25,, Narcotics Agents attempted to stop a vehicle at County Road 155 and County Road 169, with the vehicle failing to stop, a short chase was initiated. Once the vehicle stopped, fentanyl, methamphetamine, Adderall and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle. Jacquelin Elaine Peterman (53 of Higdon) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x3), Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Attempt to Several Arrested for Drugs In April
Guntersville Memorial Chapel Dora Sue Beck Whitman, age 83, of Albertville Talmadge "Mac" Wilton McCord passed away at age 82 Shannon Lee Parsons, age 57, of Guntersville James Mark Kirkley, passed away at age 69 Carol A. Wallace passed away at age 82 Timothy Gene Martin passed away at age 70 Carolyn Segrest Hagood, age 51, of Arab Douglas Albert Perry Sr., passed away at age 79 Harley Ralph Gilbert, passed away at age 83 Marshall Memorial Funeral Home Margaret Ann Cheek, age 76, of Albertville J. James Verlon Bagwell, age 88, of Boaz McRae Funeral Home Horace Edward Kilpatrick, age 88, formerly of Boaz Analuisa Jaimes Gonzalez, age 48, of Boaz Morgan Funeral Chapel and Crematory Amy Stevenson Smith, age 56, of Steele Ronald Glen Mayben, age 73, of Gadsden Denny Sanders, age 79, of Gadsden Charles Dennis Huff, age 70, of Attalla Harold D. Catoe, age 90, of Attalla Wilma Jo Baker, age 91, of Rainbow City Izak Trey Stevens, age 19, of Altoona Bobby Jack Morrow, age 81, of Steele Ann Milam, age 89, of Rainbow City Mary Evelyn Muskett, age 85, of Rainbow City Larry Dale Hartline, age 74, of Rainbow City David Scott Culbreath, age 49, of Rainbow City Anthony Glover, age 81, Gadsden Andrew J. James, age 90, of Gadsden Helen Elizabeth Brown, age 88, of Rainbow City Perry Funeral Home In Centre Carol Kay Chumbler, age 76, of Gaylesville Charlie Berenger Chandler III, age 79, of Centre Rayburn Delano Stone, age 92, of Centre Garrett Paul Givens, age 91, of Centre Terry Glenn Nichols, age 59, of Centre Donnie M. Isabell, age 72, of Rome, GA Hillary Reagan Clayton, age 40, of Centre Pamela Denise Moses Gossett, age 61, of Alexis Community Harlow Wesley Reese, age 87, of Cedar Bluff Jo Ella Morgan, age 78, of Fort Payne R.C. Black, age 80, of Rainsville Randall J. Bailey, age 63, of Hollywood Myron Stiefel, age 75, of Fyffe Kenneth Marty Traylor, age 63, of Powell Paulette Bearden, age 76, of Rainsville Rickey Stone, age 71, of Pisgah Helen June Chester, age 82, of Henagar Agnes "Polly" Beard Davis, age 90, of Rainsville Randy Posey, age 68, of Fyffe David Parker Johnson, age 73, of Fyffe Marjorie Haynes Varner, age 96, of Section Donna Jo Baker, age 70, of Anniston Section Funeral Home Christopher Ronell Medlock, age 44, of Dutton Snead Funeral Home Wilma Jean Humphrey Brooks, age 90, of Snead Etrulia "Trudy" Gibbs Sharbutt, age 80, of Horton Frances Gail Goble, age 78, of Walnut Grove Wilson Funeral Home in Fort Payne Patricia Blansit Garner, age 47, of Valley Head Kelley Elaine Thweatt, age 65, of Fyffe Emma Perry Selvage, age 85, of Fort Payne Jon-Eric Sebastian Mitchell, age 28, of Fort Payne Patricia Fayette Simmons Thompson, age 69, of Fort Payne Norma Sue Bachelor Butts, age 86, of Fort Payne Mattie "Elizabeth" Sample, age 79, of Fort Payne W.T. Wilson Funeral Home Bobby Ray Bolt, age 63, of Rainsville Winston C. Hancock, age 82, of Section Vickie Sue Moreland Fowler, age 56, of Crossville Marilyn Griffin, age 83, of Fort Payne Terri Verdelle Goodman, age 71, of Dawson Marty Samuel Shores, passed away at age 66 Brenda Gail Bryant, age 65, of Collinsville Sandra Gail Outlaw Carson Tidwell Skelton, 75, of Henagar Oscar Troy Smith, age 88, of Fort Payne Beulah Guinn Phillips, age 93, of Fyffe Terry Wayne Coleman, age 67, of Rainsville Lindsey Kristina McElrath, age 42, of Fort Payne Thomas Samuel Mashburn, age 94, of Geraldine Peggy Whitten Lindsey, age 87, of Chapel Hill, NC Regina Kay Feltman, age 54, of Henagar Ronald Lavon Rozzell, age 74, of Fort Payne Jimmy Leon Cowart, age 76, of Fyffe Matthew James McCoy, passed away at age 37 Gregory Govern Carmen, age 72, of Crossville Robert D. Parker, age 69, of Fyffe Ramona Gail Wilson, age 88, of Sylvania Donald Ray "Scrooge" Morgan, age 80, of Mentone Virgina Lee Moore, age 92, of Collinsville Bremon "Pap" Raughton, age 90, of Fort Payne Fred Daniel Jr., age 84, of Cedar Bluff Laura Jean Clinner, age 88, of Centre Nellie Jo Reynolds, age 87, of Centre Rainsville Funeral Home
John Grady Cook, age 81, of Altoona Terry Lynn McClendon, age 63, of Boaz Don Guest, age 78, of Attalla Jo Ann Gargus Bryson, age 86, of Gallant Clarence Eugene Johnson, age 83, of Boaz John Eldridge Price, age 81, of Boaz Peggy Noel, age 82, of Boaz Teresa Cherry Barber, age 67, of Oneonta Milton Frank Duke, Jr., passed away at age 78 Kenny Wayne Holbrooks, age 53, of Boaz Kristie Renae Bailey, age 50, of Boaz Jimmy Dewayne Powell, age 61, of Boaz Geraldine Funeral Home
Alex Ray Hatfield, age 43, of Fyffe Terry Ray Sargent, age 64, of Fyffe
8563 US Hwy 431 Albertville, AL
Jerome Bryant 256-572-2577
Lynn Eason, age 68, of Dawson Tyra Roberts, age 74, of Crossville
The Sports Ledger www.TheSportsLedger.com NEWS & EVENTS FIRE SAFETY COURSE - Gadsden State is teaming up with ACCS to offer a free fire extinguisher and fire safety courses to teachers, facility workers, law enforcement officers, etc. There will be three, two-hour sessions offered on May 31 at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Training begins in room 213 in Helderman Hall on the Wallace Drive Campus. It will conclude with hands-on training in the front parking lot of Helderman Hall. Read more about the course online at www.alabamaledger.com EXPORTS TOTAL $27.4 BILLION - Alabama’s exports have been surging in recent years, increasing 43% in value since 2020. Last year, Alabama exports totaled $27.4 billion, eclipsing the previous annual record set in 2022. Leading Alabama exports include motor vehicles, chemicals, minerals, metals, aerospace parts and forest products. A spike in overseas shipments of Alabama-made motor vehicles in 2023 even earned Alabama its first No. 1 ranking among auto-exporting states. Many of Alabama’s exporters are small businesses, with a total of 4,000 state companies involved in international trade. BOAZ POLICE CHIEF TO RETIRE - The Boaz Police Chief has announced his retirement. Michael Abercrombie is set to end his career in law enforcement this summer (July 2024). The Boaz Police Department has been his home since April 2000. He started as a Corrections Officer and worked his way up through the ranks of Sergeant, Detective, Chief Detective, Assistant Chief, and in 2021 he was named Chief of Police. TROOPER OFFICE MOVING - The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has announced that it will relocate its local Highway Patrol Post in Attalla to inside the city limits of Gadsden. ALEA State Troopers office will be co-located at the Fire Training and Prevention Center on the campus of Gadsden Airport. Read more online at www.alabamaledger.com. MAN DIES FOLLOWING CAR CRASH - A two-vehicle crash that occurred on Friday, April 26, has claimed the life of a Fyffe man. James R. Posey, 68, was critically injured when the 2003 Ford F-150 that he was driving struck a 1996 Ford F-350 driven by Rickie D. Nance, 70, of Fyffe. Nance was also injured; both were transported to Dekalb Regional Hospital for treatment. Posey was not using a seat belt at the time of crash. On Tuesday, April 30, Posey succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased while at Erlanger Baroness Hospital, in Chattanooga, TN The crash occurred on Alabama 75 near Dekalb County 72, approximately two miles south of Fyffe. Nothing further is available as Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate. OFFICER INVOLVED IN SHOOTING - On Thursday, May 2, 2024 at approximately 5:27 p.m., Special Agents with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) launched an investigation into an officer-involved shooting involving an officer with the Skyline Police Department. The incident occurred when the officer responded to a call for service on County Road 143 in Jackson County. Once on scene, the suspect, identified as Charles David Boyles Jr., 41, of Skyline, fired at the officer. Boyles was struck by gunfire and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The officer received minor injuries, from gunfire and was transported to Highlands Medical Center in Scottsboro where he was treated and released. Nothing further is available as the investigation remains ongoing. Once complete, the findings will be turned over to the Jackson County District Attorney. $800 MILLION DATA CENTER - Meta, or better known as Facebook, plans to Build an $800 Million, Next-Generation Data Center in Montgomery. Meta’s new 715,000-square-foot, AI-optimized data center will be built off Interstate 65 in Montgomery, across from the Hyundai automotive assembly plant. It will join the company’s other Alabama data center campus, located in Huntsville and representing an investment commitment of $1.5 billion. The Montgomery site that will house the Meta data center is already being cleared for construction to begin. More than 1,000 construction workers are expected to be onsite at the peak of construction, according to Meta. The facility is expected to go online at the end of 2026. PINNING CEREMONY - Two years of hard work and sacrifice were celebrated by the 2024 Class of Registered Nursing students as they participated in the annual Pinning Ceremony on Tuesday, April 30. Snead State President Dr. Joe Whitmore and Snead State Director of Health Sciences Dr. Lisa Brock addressed the students during the ceremony while Class President Ryan Bradford of Albertville offered remarks to his fellow RN graduates. During the Pinning Ceremony, two student nurses were recognized for their individual achievements. Melodi Cone of Gallant received the Award for Clinical Excellence. Akira Hutchins of Stevenson received the Award for Academic Excellence. The RN Class of 2024 includes 46 students, but two were unable to attend the Pinning Ceremony. The students include: Albertville: Ayala Griselda, Ryan Bradford, Amy Smith, Cari Talton; Altoona: Macie Smallwood; Anniston: Donna Brockel; Arab: Jacquelyn Black, Gunter Isom; Attalla: Dylan Bailey, Elizabeth Buchanan, Seth Lowry, Amanda Nichols, Kerigan Rice; Birmingham: Samantha Goldfon; Blountsville: Tori Clowdus; Boaz: Emily Jones, Maddie Waldrep; Centre: Amber Hinton; Crossville: Cheyanne Cuzzort, Toran Macey McDaniel, Dixie McDill; Cullman: Lucy Benefield, Emillie Gleaton; Fyffe: Danielle Galloway; Gadsden: Tanner Adams, Charles Cooksey, Reagan Galbreath, Falon R. Graves; Gallant: Melodi Cone; Guntersville: Lauralee Conaway, Madolyn Copeland, Amber Gregory, Heather Henson, Lindsey Vandergriff; Hokes Bluff: Tabitha Dodd, Riki Paul, Rebecca Payton; Horton: Crystal Hulse, Jennifer Martinez; Ider: Savannah Frost; Piedmont: Alexis Adkison, Nevaeh Sims; Southside: Brianna Goffe; Stevenson: Akira Hutchins, Sarah Morgan; Weaver: Blake Owens.
Alabama Ledger www.AlabamaLedger.com
PAGE 7A May 2024
Fort Payne Police 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. April 5, 2024 Incidents • Eric Lee Walker, age 40 of Mentone, was arrested on Three Warrants for Failure to Appear Three Accidents with 1 Injury
• An accident occurred at Godfrey Ave NE and Lala Ellen Drive NE, Charles Burgess, age 74 of Fort Payne, riding a 2002 Harley Davidson left the roadway and struck a ditch, Mr. Burgess was transported by Dekalb Ambulance Service to Dekalb Regional. April 18, 2024 No Incidents, No Accidents, and Two Arrests • Angela Gail Rich, age 46 of Fyffe, was arrested on a Warrant for DUI of a Controlled Substance • Carla Castillo, age 34 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear April 19, 2024 Incidents • Burglary – Occurred at 1614 Glenn Blvd SW, prescription medication and nonprescription medication was taken, valued at $244.40 • Criminal Mischief – Occurred at 509 Gault Avenue North, two doors and drywall were damaged, valued at $1000.00 No Arrests, Two Accidents with No Injuries April 20, 2024 Incidents • Damaged Property – Occurred at 1047 Glenn Blvd SW, a running board on a 2003 Chevrolet Suburban was damaged, valued at $500.00 • Damaged Property – Occurred at 907 Williams Ave NE, a window and paint on a truck door were damaged, valued at $500.00 • Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, several miscellaneous items were taken, valued at $74.84 • Theft of Property – Occurred at 313 2nd Street NW, license plate AOB880 was taken, valued at $15.00 • Theft of Property – Occurred at 2012 Airport Road W, a forklift key was taken, valued at $25.00 No Accidents and One Arrest • Miguel Mateo Pedro, age 44 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Domestic Violence April 21, 2024 No Incidents, One Accident with No Injuries, One Arrest • Erica Bonds Bolding, age 44 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Public Intoxication April 22, 2024 Incidents • Change Bills Circulating – Occurred at 2001 Glenn Blvd SW, a $100 bill was counterfeit No Arrests and No Accidents April 23, 2024 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at 16 Stewart Court Circle SE Apt 26, a Huffy Rocket bicycle was taken, valued at $130.00 • Theft of Property – Occurred at 1707 Glenn Blvd SW, a 2001 Suzuki Boulevard 800 was taken, valued at $2500.00 Three Arrests • Logan Michael Hall, age 23 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Resisting Arrest and Criminal Trespass • Sandra Lee Jackson, age 27 of Flat Rock, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear • James Daniel Oakley, age 42 of Albertville, was arrested for Public Intoxication One Accident with No Injuries April 24, 2024 Incidents • Damaged Property – Occurred at 3200 Desoto Pkwy NE, a 2023 Ford F150 was damaged in the front end from striking a deer, valued at $2500.00 • Damaged Property – Occurred at 651 Wallace Ave NE, a door glass on a 2019 Toyota Rav4 was damaged, valued at $200.00 Five Arrests • Nequita Denise Atherley, age 37 of Sylvania, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear • Mark Steven Goodwin II, age 30 of Fort Payne, was arrested on Two Counts of Rape and Two Counts of Sodomy • Lois Ann Mills, age 43 of Mentone, was arrested on Two Warrants for Failure to Appear • Damon Scott Wickham, age 61 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency • Jacquelyn Danielle Adams, age 26 of Rainsville, was arrested for DUI One Accident with No Injuries April 25, 2024 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at 1310 Airport Road W, one silver and one gold ring were taken, value $700.00 Four Arrests • Jasmine Nicole Rogers, age 29 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for an Outside Agency • Tiffany Marie Long, age 33 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs • Vidal Eliseo Ruiz Ajpop, age 27 of Fort Payne, was arrested on Five Charges of Possession of Child Pornography • Zanosha Michelle Brown, age 30 of Montgomery, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Trespass 2 Accidents with 0 Injuries April 26, 2024 Incidents • Damaged Vehicle – Occurred at 40 Catiebeth Lane, a door panel was damaged on a 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe, valued at $750.00 Two Arrests • Mark Steven Goodwin II, age 30 of Fort Payne, was arrested on Two Charges of Rape 1st Degree and Two Charges of Sodomy 1st Degree, and Two Charges of Sexual Abuse of a Child Less than 12 Years Old • Zachery Anthony Allen Brown, age 25 of Pisgah, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of a Combined Substance No Accidents
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident – Occurred at 221 Glenn Blvd SW, a bumper on a 2019 Toyota Corolla was damaged, valued at $500.00 • Theft of Property- Occurred at 4456 Flint Drive NE, $423.00 was taken without authorization One Arrest • Jimenez Domingo Miguel, age 19 of Fort Payne, was arrested for DUI and Underage Consumption of Alcohol Three Accidents with No Injuries April 6, 2024 Incidents • Theft of Services – Occurred at 120 Airport Road W, two dinners were not paid for, valued at $20.88 No Arrests and No Accidents April 7, 2024 Incidents • Damaged Property – Occurred at 707 4th Street NE, a door on a 2015 Toyota Camry was damaged, valued at $500.00 No Arrests, Two Accidents with No Injuries April 8, 2024 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at 403 13th Street NW, a shower chair, a rake and shovel were taken, valued at $390.00 • Lost Property – Occurred at 2302 Pack Road NW, charges of $3400.00 were made on a credit card without authorization • Change Bills Circulating – Occurred at 500 Gault Ave S, a $100.00 bill was counterfeit Two Arrests • Dustin Phillip Hulgan, age 39 of Fort Payne, was arrested on Two Warrants for Failure to Appear • Austin Zane Smartt, age 26 of Fort Payne, was arrested on Four Warrants for Failure to Appear Two Accidents with No Injuries April 9, 2024 No Incidents, No Arrests, Six Accidents with No Injuries April 10, 2024 Incidents • Theft of Property – Occurred at 4910 Martin Ave NE, Beat head phones were taken, valued at $200.00 One Arrest • Jose Pepe Martin, age 18 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Minor in Possession of Alcohol Two Accidents with No Injuries April 11, 2024 Incidents • Leaving the Scene of an Accident – Occurred at I-59 NB mm 219, a front and back door were damaged on a 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe, valued at $4000.00 No Arrests, Five Accidents with No Injuries April 12, 2024 Incidents • Burglary & Theft of Property- Occurred at 110 Gault Ave N, flooring, drywall and fixtures were damaged, Vizio tv, key ring and JBL speaker were taken, valued at $460.00 • Damaged Property – Occurred at 100 8th Street SE, a quarter panel on a 2017 Ford F350 was damaged, valued at $1000.00 Two Arrests • Keon Isaiah Jajuan Walker, age 25 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear • Ernie Lee Schultz, age 58 of Las Vegas, NV, was arrested for DUI Three Accidents with No Injuries April 13, 2024 No Incidents and Two Arrests • Katelyn Sandoval Gonzalez, age 18 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Domestic Violence • Bryan Matias Santos, age 19 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Domestic Violence Two Accidents with One Injury • An accident occurred at Glenn Blvd SW and Airport Road W, Elaine Magbie Hope, age 60 of Fort Payne, driving a 2018 Ford Focus, struck Caston Taylor Roberts, age 28 of Flat Rock, driving a 2009 Cadillac STS. Bessy Lorene Roberts, age 28 of Flat Rock, passenger in the Cadillac, was transported to Dekalb Regional by Dekalb Ambulance Service. April 14, 2024 No Incidents, No Accidents, Two Arrests • Michael Darnell Carter, age 49 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Appear • Andrew Scott Thebus, age 35 of Fort Payne, was arrested on Warrant for Failure to Appear April 15, 2024 Incidents • Fraudulent Use of a Credit/Debit Card – Occurred at 6001 Golf Road NW, charges of $829.90 were made without authorization Two Arrests • Alfredo Lorenzo Marcos, age 31 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Domestic Violence • Jacob Clark Goza, age 36 of Sylvania, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency Two Accidents with No Injuries April 16, 2024 Incidents • Criminal Mischief – Occurred at 105 5th Street NE, a door frame was damaged, valued at $200.00 One Arrest • Kim Allen Davis, age 56 of Gadsden, was arrested on Two Warrants for Failure to Appear • One Accident with No Injuries April 17, 2024 No Incidents, Two Arrests • Annett Detrice Dennis, age 42 Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency
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