Alabama Ledger - March 2022

Alabama Ledger - March 2022

Easter Sunday Will Be April 17, 2022

A LABAMA L EDGER March 2022 Northeast Alabama Print Edition www.AlabamaLedger.com 12 Pages Published by The Sports Ledger, LLC State Basketball Champions

Cornerstone Christian Girls

Guntersville Varsity Girls

Pisgah Varsity Girls

Plainview Varsity Boys

Section Varsity Boys

Five High School Basketball teams from the Northeast Alabama area all won state titles in their respective divisions. Cornerstone Christian girls won the ACAA Division 2A State Title. Guntersville won the AHSAA State 5A Girls Crown, while Pisgah's girls earned the 2A State Title. Plainview boys won the Class 3A Title, while Section earned the Class 2A boys State Crown. For more basketball coverage see The Sports Ledger in this newspaper.

Logan Patterson Class 2A Boys MVP

Jacie Bell ACAA Division 2A MVP

Olivia Vandergriff Class 5A Girls MVP

Molly Heard Class 2A Girls MVP

Cole Millican Class 3A Boys MVP

Alabama Constitutional Carry Law order to carry a concealed pistol in Alabama. The Bill also contains

Renovation Estimated at 3.5 Million Fort Payne Police Department Temporarily Relocates

By Brandon K. Pierce Alabama Ledger Due to a remodeling project at the old Fort Payne City Hall, the Fort Payne Police Department has temporarily changed to a new physical location, which is 1700 Williams Ave NE. This location is in the south end of the Williams Avenue Elementary School. According to Fort Payne Police Chief David Davis, the public will enter

the new location from the front of the building, on the south end through the double doors as marked. This will be off of Williams Avenue NE and is where the public can pick-up police reports and accident reports. It will also serve as the public’s entrance for any assistance needed from the Chief of Police, Assistant Chief of Police, Investigation Division, and Patrol Division.

Additionally, Jaycee Drive will be closed. The only exception will be when the 2022-2023 school year begins, and it will be open for school traffic only. The mailing address for the Police Department will continue to be 200 Gault Avenue South. The 911 Center and Jail will still function from the previous location, but there will be no public access during the renovation.

It has been reported that the estimated 3.5 million renovation will extend the life of the building for an additional 30 years and was more cost effective then adding a new city jail. Operational hours at the new location are 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If anyone needs assistance outside of normal business hours, please call 256-845-1414 or for any emergency dial 911. Summer Music in Albertville Several music concerts are set to be held this summer at the Sand Mountain Parks Amphitheater in Albertville. County Music Legend Travis Tritt and Kameron Marlow are set to perform on Friday, April 29, 2022. On May 20, Hip Hop Legend NELLY, along with Chingy & others, will be in concert. Rock ‘n roll legend, Skid Row will take the stage on May 21. Joining them are glam and heavy metal bands, Winger and QUIET RIOT. The triple-platinum, grammy nominated rock band 3 Doors Down, along with others, are set for a performance on Saturday, June 4. On June 10-11, 2022 the venue will host the American Made Music Festival, which will feature artists Martina McBride, Diamond Rio, Dailey and Vincent, and Jimmy Fortune.

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has made a commitment to defend law abiding Alabamians’ Second Amendment rights. She reinforced this by signing House Bill 272, known as the constitutional carry bill into law. “Unlike states who are doing everything in their power to make it harder for law abiding citizens, Alabama is reaffirming our commitment to defending our Second Amendment rights,” said Gov. Ivey. “I have always stood up for the rights of law abiding gunowners, and I am proud to do that again today.” The Constitutional Carry Bill, sponsored by Rep. Shane Stringer, revises certain restrictions regarding the carrying or possession of a pistol and eliminates the requirement to obtain a pistol permit in A Fort Payne teacher has been charged for allegedly soliciting a prostitute. According to DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Weldon, on Friday March 11, 2022 Kenneth Ronald Zaremba III, age 37 of Fort Payne, was arrested on one count of Solicitation of a Prostitute and one count of Engaging in Prostitution. The suspect was booked into the DeKalb County Detention Center on a $100,000 bond. The charge comes after Investigators determined that the suspect hired a prostitute to drive from Huntsville to his residence for sex. Welden noted that Investigators are continuing to work with school officials to ensure the safety of the students.

various sections related to firearms, restrictions on carrying a gun in a motor vehicle, as well as on state or school property, and guidelines for the Local Government Pistol Permit Revenue Loss Fund. According to the bill there will be $5 million dollars appropriated annually, or so much as necessary to maintain a balance of $2 million dollars in the fund, at the beginning of each fiscal year for the next three fiscal years. Grants for the County Sheriffs are also mentioned in the bill and any amounts award may not exceed the amount of revenue received from pistol permit fees by that County in fiscal year 2022.

Teacher Arrested For Solicitation

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey was the keynote speaker for the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce Member Breakfast at Gadsden State Community College, Cherokee Campus, on Thursday March 10, 2022 in Centre. During the Governor's visit to North Alabama, she took time for a picture with local law enforcement members. Governor Ivey (Center) is pictured with Cherokee County Sheriff Jeff Shaver (right) and Chief Deputy Josh Summerford (left). Governor Kay Ivey visits Cherokee County Photo by Hal Yeager, Governor's Office

Kenneth Ronald Zaremba III

The Town of Valley Head will be hosting Memories of Mayberry on Saturday, May 7, 2022. The event will include your favorite Mayberry characters, a cruise-in, arts and crafts, food, live entertainment and various vendors. Pickers welcome. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Valley Head Fire Department. The day of fun will kick off at 9 a.m. For more information call 256-899-3776 or 256-635-6814. Memories of Mayberry 2022

WHAT'S INSIDE Boating Safety Courses - Page 2A Sheriff Statistics - Page 2A Alabama State Parks - Page 3A Area Death Notices - Page 5A Jackson Co. Hall of Fame - Page 1B State Basketball Pages 2B & 3B Auburn and Alabama - Page 5B Martin to Play at JSU - Page 5B

“This is a fantastic job by our investigators. Adults that interact with our young people need to be held to the highest standard,” said Welden. “The case is also a good example of our investigators adapting themselves to the modern, connected world and utilizing the latest technology to make this case,” Sheriff Welden said.

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March 2022

Read Free Online at AlabamaLedger.com Past Time Alabama This month's Past Time Alabama recognizes one of Lake Guntersville's most anticipated events. The following pictures are from the 2019 Home Builder's Bass Tournament. The 2022 Home Builders Open Bass Tournament is set to return to Lake Guntersville on April 8. The event will be held at Guntersville's Civitan Park, located at 1500 Sunset Drive beginning with check-in at 5 a.m. The boats will launch at safe light and the weigh-in will be at 2 p.m. The cost is $150 per boat for association members and $200 per boat for non members. There will be numerous prizes, including a first place catch of $2,500. To register online visit buildersopenbass.com. If you have a picture or a story that you would like to share with us for future Past Time Features in the Alabama Ledger please contact us at 256-506-7368. (Photos by Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger) Alabama Ledger

Page 2A

Delusional Biden Disappoints Opinion Column Mike Durant Candidate for US Senate I‘ve been clear on the record: Joe Biden disappoints me every day when he wakes up in the morning. Last week during his first State of the Union address, President Biden reaffirmed to the American people that he is delusional. Like the career politician that he is – Biden took credit in spite of the results of his actions. Biden’s sanctions did not deter Russian dictator Vladimir Putin from invading Ukraine, nor did he properly arm Ukraine with enough weapons despite knowing for months that Russia was planning to attack. Instead, the Biden Administration famously offered Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a ride out of the country, to which this brave leader said, “The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride.” The heroes are not President Joe Biden or Vice President Kamala Harris, but rather Volodymer Zelenskyy, heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk, tennis star Sergiy Stakhovsky and all the people in Ukraine who have stayed to defeat Russia and Vladimir Putin. Russia started a war with Ukraine because they saw from Afghanistan how weak President Biden is. They saw how Biden abandoned our European allies, left behind over 900 Americans, and gave control of Afghanistan to the Taliban. Back home, Biden’s policies aren’t faring much better, as inflation is increasing at a pace that we haven’t since 1982. The cost of food, electricity and gas have all risen, because the reckless spending polices from the Biden Administration and the Democrats who run Washington have made inflation worse. Biden has served in office since 1972 – so he remembers the Carter era. But apparently he learned nothing from it. Additionally, crime is out of control across our country. From NewYork City to right here in Birmingham, our cities are becoming less safe and violent crime is on the rise. Despite the change of tone in his address last week, Joe Biden has spent the last two years standing with the radical left who wants to “defund the police”. That’s nonsense. We need to elect leaders who will always stand with law enforcement and back the blue, not politicians who pander to the liberal extremes. It’s no secret that due to the decisions by Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, we have a humanitarian crisis on our southern border. Every month, we set new records for illegal crossings at the border all because of Joe Biden’s policies of open borders, tax dollars for illegals and allowing violent gangs into our country. President Trump made it clear on day one: they’re bringing drugs and they’re bringing crime. We stop it all by building the wall. Despite all of Biden’s gibberish during the State of the Union, here’s some plain English that we can all understand. President Joe Biden has proven himself to be an incompetent leader in the White House and the State of our Union was undoubtedly much stronger under President Donald J. Trump. Now more than ever, we need to get rid of the career politicians in Washington and return to the America First agenda to restore our great country. Governor Ivey Awards $80 Million to Hospitals and Nursing Homes Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has awarded an additional $80 million of the State Fiscal Recovery Fund from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to provide reimbursements for the state’s hospitals and nursing homes. This will support two grant programs of up to $40 million each, one administered by the Alabama Hospital Association and the other by the Alabama Nursing Home Association. “Alabama is showing the rest of the country that we can learn to live with this virus and move on with living our lives. As we close the door on this thing, I once again give my utmost appreciation and thanks to the medical professionals and staff in our hospitals and nursing homes across the state,” said Governor Ivey. “These men and women, no doubt, deserve our praise for getting us through this. I commend the Alabama Legislature for appropriating these dollars to continue helping our hospitals and nursing homes get back on their feet.” The $40 million designated for Alabama hospitals will be distributed by the Alabama Hospital Association on a reimbursement basis. It will be for the purpose of responding to or mitigating the covid-19 pandemic and public health emergency. The $40 million designated for Alabama nursing homes will also be distributed by the Alabama Nursing Home Association on a reimbursement basis. It will be for the purpose of responding to or mitigating the covid-19 pandemic and public health emergency. “On behalf of Alabama long-term care sector, I thank Governor Ivey, theAlabama Legislature and the Department of Finance for allocating these funds to nursing homes and their consistent support throughout the pandemic,” said Alabama Nursing Home Association President & CEO Brandon Farmer. Alabama received $2.1 million in ARPA funds, and the Alabama Legislature appropriated $80 million from Alabama’s State Fiscal Recovery Fund for these programs.

Kids Coloring Corner

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Find Sports at www.TheSportsLedger.com Boating safety courses offered By Brandon K. Pierce Alabama Ledger The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division has announced upcoming available dates for prospective boaters to enroll in the Boating Basics and License Course that will be taught by Troopers within ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division. This course will allow citizens of Alabama to obtain a Boating Basics course certificate that may then be taken to their local Driver License Division Office to have the boater endorsement added to their driver’s license. Children 12 years old or older are eligible for a vessel operator's license, however, they will not be able to operate alone until the age of 14. “This course is an excellent opportunity for citizens to interact with their local Troopers while receiving hands-on education. It is our goal to ensure we are providing up-to- date information and scenarios that fully prepare all boaters for a safe and enjoyable season on the water," Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Colonel Jimmy Helms said. Corporal Robert Ping from ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division added that, “There is no better boater safety program, than the courses taught by Marine Patrol Troopers. Our classes allow students to interact directly with the instructor and are developed to address the issues Alabama boaters face on their local bodies of water. With summer boating season fast approaching, now is the time to get licensed so that you may safely enjoy the beautiful Alabama waterways.” Class sizes will be limited to allow for Covid-19 protocols to be followed. A one-time application fee of $5 cash will be charged. There will be a $36.25 issuance fee for the license. For more information, or to enroll in a class, please contact the Marine Patrol instructor via the email at the course location as listed below Some of the course locations around Northeast Alabama include: Centre, Guntersville and Scottsboro. There will be two courses at the Cherokee County EMA in Centre. Eric Watson ([email protected]) will conduct the first course on March 19, 2022 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Micah Little ([email protected]) will conduct the second course on April 16 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Guntersville course will be held on March 26, 2022 at the Guntersville Rescue Squad from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. by Kevin Hawkins ([email protected]). Boaters around Jackson County can sign up for a course at the Goosepond Civic Center in Scottsboro on April 23, 2022. James Young ([email protected]) will be conducting the event from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Page 3A The Sports Ledger March 2022 Newsworthy Notes & Events

BOAZ CHAMBER BANQUET - The annual Boaz Chamber of Commerce Banquet will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2022 at The Event Center located at 201 Elizabeth Street. The event will be DowntownAbbeyAttire and the cost per ticket is $50. The banquet will include dinner, music, fun, games and a live auction. TECHNICAL SCHOLARSHIP - The Deadline for the 2022 Marshall County Manufacturers Association Scholarship is April 9. To be eligible for the scholarship, those applying must be a high school senior from an accredited high school within Marshall County, an employee of an MCMA member company, or an adult student enrolled in an accredited skills training program at Snead State Community College. For more information call 256-582-5100. ROCK THE SOUTH - The "Biggest Party in the South” is back in Cullman on Aug. 5-6, 2022, with an incredible lineup of musicians. Morgan Wallen and ALABAMA will be the 2022 headliners with other well- known musicians, HARDY, Jamey Johnson, Koe Wetzel, Jimmie Allen, Colt Ford, Matt Stell and Dee Jay Silver. LIONEL RICHIE TO BE HONORED - Pop music icon Lionel Richie will be the next recipient of the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. Richie will be honored with an all-star tribute concert in Washington, D.C., that will be broadcast nationally on PBS stations May 17 at 8 p.m. CT. SNEAD STATE MUSIC EVENTS - Snead State Community College will hold it's Community Wind Band Concert on Sunday, April 24, at 3 p.m., and the Snead State Music Department’s Spring Concert on Friday, April 29, at 7 p.m. Both performances will take place in the Bevill Center Auditorium. The Snead State Masterworks Chorale, formerly known as the Community Choir, will present a spring concert on Thursday, May 5, at 7 p.m., also in the Bevill Center Auditorium. All of these events are free. AFTER HOURS - Northeast Alabama Community College will hold The NACC Experience After Hours on Thursday, March 17, 2022 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the William M. Beck Health & Fine Arts Center (Gym) on campus. TheAfter Hours event is open to anyone interested in learning more about Northeast, including prospective students of all ages and parents. 2022 BLOOMING FESTIVAL - The 38th annual Blooming Festival will be held on April 23-24 at the Ava Maria Grotto in Cullman. The Arts and Crafts fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. JR. BETAAWARDWINNERS - Several Students at Cornerstone Christian Academy in Rainsville recently earned Jr Beta Awards. The students include: • Charice Bush: 1st Place Elementary Drawing Division • Engineering Team: won 1st in Elementary Division • Technology Team: won 1st in Elementary Division • Robotics Team: won 1st in Elementary Division • Living Literature Team: won 5th in Junior Division • Group Talent Team: won 3rd in Junior Division CARDINAL DAYS - Gadsden State Community College will be hosting Cardinal Days on April 11-14, 2022 in an effort to assist more students through the advising and registration process for the summer semester. The event will be from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Cardinal Tutoring Center on the Ayers Campus in Anniston and in the One Stop Center on the East Broad Campus. It will also be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the lobby at Gadsden State Cherokee in Centre and in the Student Resource Center on the Valley Street Campus in Gadsden. In addition to advisement, popcorn, drinks and giveaways will also be available to the students. TRAFFIC FATALITY - A single-vehicle crash on Thursday, March 3, 2022 claimed the life of an Albertville man. According to Alabama State Troopers, Roger Neal Duke, 67, was fatally injured when the 2007 Nissan Qwest he was driving left the roadway and struck an embankment. Duke and the vehicle were located on Friday, March 4. Duke was pronounced deceased at the scene. The crash occurred on Old Oneonta Road, approximately two miles west of Albertville, in Marshall County. CHANGE OF LEADERSHIP - The University of Georgia has decided to change the leadership of its men’s basketball program. Tom Crean will not return for his fifth season as the Bulldogs’ head coach. This season, Georgia finished 6-26 overall and 1-17 in the SEC. Crean compiled a 47-75 record and was 15-57 in SEC play during his four seasons with the Bulldogs. POLICE OFFICER ARRESTED - A two-vehicle crash Sunday, Feb. 20, 2022 has resulted in the arrest of an off-duty Huntsville Police Officer. According to Alabama State Trooper, Taylor W. Stegall, 31, of Huntsville, was arrested for Driving while Under the Influence of Alcohol when the 2014 Ford F-150 he was driving struck a 1997 Toyota 4-Runner driven by Brodrick D. Fearn, 41, also of Huntsville. Fearn was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Stegall was arrested and transported to the Madison County Jail and placed under a 1,000 bond. The crash occurred near the intersection of Ready Section Road and Scott Road, approximately seven miles north of Toney, in Madison County.

CAR SHOW - Dress in your 50's Best and come join the fun at the 2022 Boaz Annual Car Show. The event will be held on Friday, April 8, 2022 from 5-8 p.m in downtown Boaz. For more information call 256-593-8154. MANUFACTURINGTRAINING- Gadsden State Community College’s Adult Education Services is offering a free Manufacturing Skill Standards Council Boot Camp. Registration will continue through March 25 for classes set to begin April 4 at the Adult Education Building on the Ayers Campus. The training delivery is hybrid (conducted online and in-person) with both day and evening classes offered. The 10-week intensive training is designed to lead participants to being a certified production technician through the MSSC, which is the nation’s leading industry- led training, assessment and certification organization. All books, materials, registration fees and certification fees are fully funded by a Gadsden State Community College Adult Education Services grant. For more information, please visit gadsdenstate.edu/adulted. SMOKE ON THE FALLS - The 2022 Smoke on the Falls BBQ Competition will be held at Noccalula Falls on April 9. For more information call 256-549-4663. MATOR'S PIZZA ADDS FRANCHISE - The locally famous Mator's Pizza and Pasta has announced plans to expand into Fort Payne. Mator's, established in 1978 in Gadsden, is known for their signature "Better Boy" Pizza and other menu favorites. The company opened its first franchise in Albertville in 2013. The downtown Fort Payne franchise was initially set to open in 2020 as the company's third location. The exact opening date of the new Fort Payne Mator's has not yet been announced. RECORD SHOP CLOSES - The Historic Ernest Tubb Record Shop in Nashville, TN closed its doors on Friday, March 11, 2022. The iconic venue has been a part of County Music and Nashville for over 75 years. It was host to many music legends, as some of the biggest stars performed at the shops Midnite Jamboree. STYX CONCERT - The legendary rock band STYX, along with REO Speedwagon, are scheduled to perform at the Orion Amphitheater in Huntsville on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 6:45 p.m.. STYX is known for a variety of 70's and 80's music, including hits such as "Come Sail Away" and "Renegade". DeKalb County Sheriff Releases 2021 Statistics By Brandon K. Pierce Alabama Ledger The DeKalb County Sheriff’s office has released statistics from 2021. “We know this past year was taxing for everyone and our office was no different,” stated Sheriff Nick Welden. “With all the sickness throughout our office and the devastating loss of three of our own, our numbers reflect a little less than the year before.” “I am proud of all the hard work our men and women put in every day. We work tirelessly 24/7 for the citizens of DeKalb County, striving to make our community a safer place to raise our families. Even with all the tragic events that have taken place this year, I feel the numbers are a phenomenal display of the dedication that our Family (DCSO) displayed, protecting yours,” said Sheriff Welden. The statics reported by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s office include: • Total Miles Driven: 589,236 • Number of Calls Answered: 5,258 • Number of Reports Taken: 2,054 • Civil Papers Served: 1,987 • Civil Papers Attempted to Serve: 2,054 • Subpoenas Served: 1,745 • Subpoenas Attempted to Serve: 387 • Warrants Served: 1,023 • Warrants Attempted to Serve: 198 • Warrantless Arrest: 1,041 • Total Arrest: 2,064 • Number of Assist: 3,004 • Number of Search Warrants/Consent: 296 • Out of Town Trips: 201 • 911 Hang Up Calls Answered: 437 • Alarm Calls Answered: 389 • Cases Closed: 1,053 • Sex Offender Checks: 315 The Narcotics and Interdiction Unit also reported statistics for the 2021. They include: • Drug Cases: 579 • Methamphetamine Seized: 4,364 grams • Marijuana Seized: 10,663 Grams • Spice Seized: 4,537 Grams • Pills Seized: 2,722 • Heroine Seized: 44 Grams • Cocaine Seized: 15 Grams • Cash Seized: $ 55,577 • Cars Seized: 8 Also in 2021 the Investigations Unit had 739 Cases Assigned “We make every effort to stay open and honest with the citizens of this county and work every day to make this day better than the day before,” added Welden. “We feel that showing a break down of all calls answered, arrests made, warrants served, and other information helps keep everyone in the loop. It allows us to see our strengths and weaknesses, and to make improvements where needed.”

Alabama state waters and federal waters will open to private and state-licensed charter vessel anglers boats that do not hold federal for-hire fishing permits for red snapper harvest on Friday, May 27, 2022. The season will consist of four-day weekends, Friday through Monday, beginning Friday, May 27, and continue until the private angler quota is projected to be met. The daily bag limit will be two red snapper per person, per day with a minimum size limit of 16 inches total length. Starting in 2022 all vessels fishing for reef fish in federal waters are required to have a venting tool or descending device rigged and ready to use. Red Snapper Season

Office: 256-878-1000

Tracy Honea 256-302-2590 Mike Gentry 256-506-3319 For All Your Real Estate Needs Call

Keith Canterberry ~ 256-302-2252 [email protected] [email protected] Like us on Facebook at: bama-wholesale-auctions Instagram: Bama Wholesale Auctions ONLINE AUCTION bama-wholesale-auctions.com Marshall County’s Largest Knife Outlet Visit Our Pallet and Wholesale Store at 9021 US Highway 431 in Albertville Check out our new

March 2022

Alabama Ledger

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North Alabama State Parks Among Country's Best

HIGH BARGAIN BINS 5 Check us out on YouTube Visit us at our store in Boaz, Alabama SATURDAY i $5 i 8AM - 5PM SUNDAY i CLOSED MONDAY i $3 i 9AM - 5PM TUESDAY i $1 i 9AM - 5PM WEDNESDAY i $.50 i 9AM - 5PM THURSDAY i $.25 i 9AM - 12 PM ( Closed at noon to Restock ) FRIDAY CLOSED FOR RESTOCK SeeWhatYour Tax Refund Can Buy In addition to this impressive list of state parks, there are numerous other parks and protected areas to explore across North Alabama. These include nationally recognized highlights such as Dismals Canyon National Natural Landmark (901 Highway 8, Phil Campbell, Alabama 35581; 205-993-4559), Little River Canyon National Reserve (4322 Little River Trail, Suite 100, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967; 256-845-9605) and Bankhead National Forest (1070 Alabama 33 35553; 205-489-3621) as well as the one-of-a-kind Natural Bridge of Alabama (Natural Bridge, Alabama 35577; 205-486-5330), the longest natural bridge east of the Rockies. Additional travel information is available at NorthAlabama.org. DeSoto State Park is situated atop scenic Lookout Mountain in Northeast Alabama and is known for its many rushing waterfalls and fragrant wildflowers. The park provides an array of lodging options, including a motel, log cabins, rustic cabins and mountain chalets. Along with 94 full hook-up campsites, there are primitive camping sites as well as two back- country campsites with shelters. Other amenities include a full-service restaurant, pavilions, picnic area with playground, swimming pool, a nature center, Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and more than 25 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Joe Wheeler State Park 4401 McLean Drive, Rogersville, Alabama 35652 The centerpiece of this 2,500-acre park is 69,700-acre Wheeler Lake, which offers easy access to the Tennessee River and is popular with sailors, cruisers and anglers. Each fall the park hosts the Fall Rendezvous of boaters traveling the Great Loop, welcoming as many as 250 vessels. There is a plethora of amenities at this park, including a three-story lodge of redwood and stone with 75 hotel rooms and a restaurant. There is also a marina, boat launch, boat rentals, day-use pavilions and picnic areas and an 18-hole championship golf course. The approximately 10 miles of trail include areas for hikers, bikers and birders. In addition to the lodge, there are full hook-up and primitive camping sites, lakeside cabins and rustic cottages. Lake Guntersville State Park 1155 Lodge Drive, Guntersville, Alabama 35976 This is a 6,000-acre park located along the shore of Lake Guntersville. A lodge, chalets, motel and convention center are situated on a 500-foot bluff overlooking the lake. Lake activities are popular here and include swimming, fishing and boat rentals. But the fun goes well beyond the water, with 36 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails, an 18- hole golf course and The Screaming Eagle Aerial Adventures zipline course. This is also home to the Eagle Awareness Program, which offers eagle viewing field trips, seminars and special programs each January and February. The park’s campground includes 295 improved campsites and a primitive camping area. There are also 15 traditional lakeside cabins and new camper cabins for RVers. Monte Sano State Park 5105 Nolen Avenue, Huntsville, Alabama 35801 Just minutes from the hustle and bustle of Huntsville, Alabama, Monte Sano State Park is a respite atop Monte Sano Mountain. The 2,140-acre park has vistas, mountaintop trails, family picnic areas and an 18-hole golf course. It is a popular spot for mountain bikers and hikers, with 22 miles of trails, varying in both scenery and difficulty. The park offers 14 renovated (but rustic) cabins perched on the mountainside. They are a testament to the park's history, which is revealed at the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum on-site. Additionally, there are 89 improved campsites and a primitive camping area for overnight guests. This is also home to the Wernher von Braun Planetarium and the North Alabama Japanese Garden. Rickwood Caverns State Park 370 Rickwood Park Road, Warrior, Alabama 35180 Alabama’s state parks system is arguably one of the best in the country. The diversity and beauty of the state’s natural resources offer the perfect environment and Alabama’s northernmost region is home to an incredible assortment of those scenic and recreational assets. The park system offers access to that assortment through an amazing collection of state parks. Interstate 65 dissects the region from north to south, starting just an hour south of Nashville at the Alabama state line, down past Cullman into Blount County. Once off the Interstate, there is a world of adventure awaiting visitors. Whether you prefer chasing waterfalls or stalking bass, exploring caverns or climbing peaks, mountain biking or paddle boating, North Alabama’s state parks have a spot for you. Take a look at this diverse list of state parks, each calling adventurers to get out and enjoy! Buck’s Pocket State Park 393 County Road 174 Grove Oak, Alabama 35975 After a renovation to its facilities, Buck's Pocket State Park reopened in summer of 2021 with a renovated campground and a new ORV (Off-Road Vehicles) trail. This is a family-friendly destination for campers, off-road enthusiasts and vacationers looking to get off the grid. The campground features 23 full hook-up RV campsites with picnic table, fire pit and grill. There are also 11 primitive campsites in the campground and plans are underway for additional rustic and back-country campsites. The park has 15 miles of hiking trails and stunning vistas from a 1,000-foot scenic overlook which offers canyon-rim views of the state park below. Cathedral Caverns State Park 637 Cave Road, Woodville, Alabama 35776 The stalagmite forest and frozen waterfall are the classic views at Cathedral Caverns. The cave, which maintains a 60-degree temperature all year long, has a huge opening that measures 126 feet wide and 25 feet high. Human habitation can be traced back 8,000 years in the cave. It is home to one of the largest stalagmites in the world measuring 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference. Outside the cave the park offers gemstone mining, an activity for any age, but especially popular with younger visitors. Beyond that, the park encompasses 493 acres with hiking trails and improved campsites along with primitive tent camping areas. DeSoto State Park 1299 Blalock Drive NE, Fort Payne, Alabama 35967 Rickwood's claim to fame is its miracle mile of underground caverns! The 260-million-year- old limestone formations, blind cave fish and underground pool are just a few of the natural wonders found in the cavern. The park features an Olympic-size swimming pool, snack bar, picnic area and hiking trails. Campers can choose from 13 full hook-up sites and five primitive tent sites. The caverns themselves were water-formed during the Mississippian period more than 260 million years ago and still contain active "living formations," as mineral-laden water droplets build colorful structures and flowstones.

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger

The entrance to Lake Guntersville State Park

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger

The Lodge at Lake Guntersville State Park

Photo by Brandon K. Pierce, Alabama Ledger

The entrance to Cathedral Caverns

The 260-million-year-old limestone formations, blind cave fish and underground pool are just a few of the natural wonders found in the cavern at Rickwood Cavern State Park, one of the reasons Alabama's state parks system is among the best in the country. Photo by Alabama State Parks

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The Sports Ledger

March 2022

Death 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. Guntersville Memorial Chapel

Terry Wayne Padgett, age 67, of Sylvania Mickey Murdock, age 61, of Grove Oak Keloris Stone, age 75, of Sylvania Danny Guest Gilbert, age 73, formerly of Geraldine Preston Russell, Jr., age 60, of Rainsville Rev. Charles Elrod, age 88, of Fort Payne Johnny "Johnny Mac" McBride, age 67, of Scottsboro Laurie Coots Weeks, age 46, of Section The Valley Funeral Home Scottsboro and Stevenson Robert Wayne Henegar, age 68, of Bridgeport Mary Evelyn "Peggy" Allen, no age listed, of Pensacola, FL Emmett O'Neal, age 64, of Scottsboro Leon Roam Jr., age 75, of Stevenson Shelia Marlene Snyder Land, age 68, of Flat Rock Chris Allison, age 43, of Stevenson Michael Blevins, no age or location listed Ruth Stratton, age 89, of Scottsboro Wilson Funeral Home in Fort Payne Rose Marie "Suzie" Snow Hartline, age 65, of Gaylesville Betty H. Barkley, age 80, of Fort Payne Luther Eddie Blevins, passed away at age 64 Robert Lee Akins, age 61, of Fort Payne Bessie Irene Awtrey, age 62, of Fort Payne Julia "Judy" Faye Bohannon Brown, age 89, of Fort Payne Mark Edwards, no age or location listed Rhonda D. Scroggins, age 49, of Scottsboro Robert Karl Wright, age 66, of Fort Payne Etta M. Woodall, age 97, of Fort Payne R.L. Land, age 87, of Rainsville Carole Connelly Killian, age 78, of Fort Payne Charlotte Augusta Burt, age 92, of Fort Payne Jami VaShae Thornberry, age 38, of Fort Payne Richard Clarence Robbins, age 65, of Fort Payne W.T. Wilson Funeral Home Robert Warren Hairell, Jr., age 67, of Fort Payne Norma Jean McDowell, age 70, of Albertville Melissa Ann Clark Elders, age 59, of Mentone Jessie Mae McCormick, age 91, of Boaz William Fonzo Winters, age 78, of Fort Payne Glenn David Moses, age 42, of Rainsville Jennifer Hastings Moss, age 72, of Rainsville Jonathan Floyd Duncan, age 56, of Collinsville Mary Christine McCay, age 48, of Henegar Karen Denise Brownfield, age 57, of Dawson Charles DeWayne Higgins, age 62, of Gadsden Lynne McKelvey, passed away at age 65 Rickey Moses, age 62, of Dawson Margaret Dobbs, age 79, of Section David Carl Lane, age 61, of Collinsville Harry Louis Mozingo, age 92, of Collinsville Barney McAbee, age 86, of Fyffe Danny Lee Jolley, age 68, of Dawson Regena Nieto-Negrete, age 64, of Albertville Verna Sanders Stephens Chandler, age 92, of Fort Payne Jerry W. Preston, age 88, of Pisgah Myrna Jane Odom, age 68, of Dawson Maxie Rebecca Cox, age 87, of Fyffe Dorothy Tillery Weathers, age 81, of Fort Payne Mark Alan Sewell, age 48, of Henegar Larry Wayne Simpson, age 72, of Fort Payne Jesse Simpson, age 66, of Guntersville Virginia Dare Smith, age 94, of Fort Payne James Curtis Goza, age 63, of Fort Payne Linda Diane Swearengin, age 67, of Boaz Marjorie Jo Davis, age 86, of Crossville Wanda Kay Whitfield Miller, age 65, of Albertville Myron Dwight Henderson, age 69, of Rainsville Sarah Lee Cosby, age 70, of Fyffe Barney G. Cason, age 63, of Attalla Irma Idalia Townson, age 72, of Fyffe Robert "Bobby" Foster Johnston, Sr., age 78, of Crossville Misty Lynn Jones, age 44, of Fort Payne Marvin Raisler, age 81, of Grant Heath Allen "Kidd" Haney, age 37, of Fort Payne Robert L. "Bob" Pruett, age 81, of Fyffe Paul Steven Cross, age 43, of Fort Payne David DeWayne Worley, age 63, of Rainsville Elizabeth Barringer Nunley, age 72, of Pisgah Linda Crawford Kissling, age 69, of Fort Payne Janet Elaine Bell, age 73, of Rainsville Tommy Ladon Keef, age 47, of Scottsboro Rayford B. "Ray" Phillips, Sr., age 87, of Fort Payne Memorial Scholarship Sherry Wofford, second from left, recently presented a $26,000 endowment in honor of her husband to Dr. Kathy Murphy, left, president of Gadsden State; Mark Condra, president of the Cardinal Foundation; and Dr. Tera Simmons, executive VP of Gadsden State. The amount of $25,000 is for the endowment while $1,000 will be awarded as a scholarship in the fall. The Michael Joe Wofford Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a full-time student pursuing a credential at Gadsden State. In order to qualify, the student must be an incoming freshman from Etowah County and have at least a 3.0 GPA. Because of his love of music, it is preferred that the student be engaged in music through vocal or instruments; however, the student does not have to major in music. A 250- to 500- word essay titled “The Importance of Music in My Life” should accompany the application. Michael was a life-long resident of Gadsden having graduated in 1967 from Emma Sansom High School. He worked for over 28 years at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. before retiring in 2000. Submitted Photo

Adams Brown Service Funeral Home Nancy Ann Swearengin, age 67, of Albertville Mary Delores Croft, age 74, of Boaz Billy Jack Morrow, age 72, of Crossville Lunita Carmarie Barrentine, age 51, of Union Grove Ruby Bowman, age 75, of Horton Joseph Winston Smith, age 78, of Albertville Annie Pearl W. Bearden, age 89, of Albertville Othalua Christine Pitchford, age 88, of Boaz Maureen Saint, age 79, of Boaz Windle Wayne Dinger, Sr., age 68, of Boaz Randy Alfred Murray, age 55, of Marshall County Thomas "TJ" Ogle, age 89, of Albertville Linda Jolley Denson, age 72, of Albertville JB Terrell, age 90, of Crossville Charles Lynn Parker, age 64, of Albertville Clyde William Dabbs, age 68 of Albertville Doris Evelyn Strange, age 92, of Albertville Roger Neal Duke, age 67, of Albertville Albertville Memorial Funeral Home Barbara Hughes Wester, age 65, of Crossville Hilda Jane Goldman Tillman, age 77, of Boaz Glen Edward Miller, age 56, of Boaz Goldie Ruth Childers Hollis, age 65, of Horton Michael "Mike" Holland, age 58, of Albertville Anthony "Amp" Moore, age 79, of Albertville Sue Isbell Bright, age 84, of Albertville Nathan Monroe Ledbetter, age 26, of Horton Eula Otinger Bruce Floeter, age 95, formerly of Boaz Barbara Jean Martin, age 77, of Boaz Rev. Roger White, age 78, of Boaz Linda Ann Sorter, age 57, of Albertville Sybil Cooley Baker, age 91, of Albertville Burt Funeral Home Riley Joseph Henderson, age 25, of Cedar Bluff Cynthia Windham Horton, age 59, of Jasper Ronald Haley Hilliard, age 74, of Mentone Tom John Busby, age 66, of Fort Payne Steven Henry Epps, age 51, of Gaylesville Burtha Caren Blassingame, age 81, of Fort Payne Carr Funeral Home in Boaz Grady Randall Alexander, age 76, of Boaz Jerry Lee Scott Johnson, age 45, of Boaz Nila Fay Kidd, age 83, of Horton Elmer Don Kight passed away at age 72 Leon Hunter Strahan III passed away at age 59 Victor Robert Golden II, age 72, of Guntersville Michael Harold Burnor passed away at age 66 Misty Renee Epps, age 35, of Guntersville Bonnie Couch Segui, age 79, of Guntersville June E. Goble passed away at age 87 Mitzy Jene Byram passed away at age 76 Calvin Glenn Saint, age 61, of Albertville John Walter Petrey, Sr., age 84, of Guntersville Collier-Butler Funeral Home George Sutherlin, age 73, formerly of Gadsden Dr. Louie Franklin Hood, Sr., age 67, of Gadsden Chester Maxwell Cochran, age 86, of Gadsden Carr Funeral Home in Guntersville Jerry Glenn Burgess, age 83, of Southside Richard Gene Majure, Jr., age 60, of Gadsden Inez Floyd McNeal, age 103, formerly of Albertville John Morgan Harrell, age 89, of Dothan Robert David Allen, age 82, of Gadsden Horace Michael Bilbro, age 80, of Gadsden Mateo Miguel Mateo, age 43, of Gadsden Sharon Ann Dehn, age 75, of Rainbow City Marvin Lynn Lowe, age 74, of Gadsden Zachary Daylan Morris, age 26, of Gadsden Jean England, age 94, of Gadsden Deborah Burger Pruitt, age 63, of Gadsden Elizabeth Richter Wilkes, age 71, of Gadsden Alton Edward Slaten, age 82, of Hokes Bluff James Mitchel Hibbard, age 48, of Attalla Ronald Keith Smith, age 64, of Southside Barbara Suzette Peppers Pardue, age 65, of Rainbow City Lonnie Lee Cole, age 72, of Gadsden Jeffrey Emmett Mince, age 53, formerly of Gadsden Joyce Weatherly Sington, age 84, of Gadsden Josephine Yeats Watts, age 96, of Gadsden Michael Wallace Kimberly, age 80, formerly of Anniston Thelma Adele Norman, age 85, of Boaz Keith Waites, age 65 of Rainbow City Patricia Gail Cahela, age 66, of Gadsden Eva Deane Dunn, age 94, of Glencoe John "Doug" Jenkins, age 79, of Glencoe Richard Calvin Funderburg, age 76, of Attalla Collinsville Funeral Home Robert Jerry Payne passed away at age 80 Linda Faye Cohen Bryant, age 80, of Collinsville James Ronald "Ron" Jones, age 81, of Collinsville Cornerstone Funeral Chapel in Ider Maxine McKee Sartin, age 78, of Ider Arthur Allen Hickman, age 72, of Valley Head Sharon Diane Hurst Williams, age 73, of Flat Rock James "Jimmy" Madison Watkins, age 86, of Ider Stanley William Baugh, age 67, of Valley Head Paul "Monk" McGee Adkins, age 76, of Flat Rock Leda Yvonne Garrett Tinker, age 65, of Pisgah Curtis Lee Cottingham, age 84, of Pisgah Shirley Jean Allen, age 79, Flat Rock Daris Virginia Smith Watkins, age 85, of Ider Clarice Florine Brown Keith, age 66, of Henagar Paul Hugh Britton Jr., age 53, of Red Bank, TN Herman Leon Cooper, age 82, of Flat Rock Crossville Memorial Chapel

William Coleman Collins, age 78, of Guntersville Johnny Reed Edmonds, age 72, of Guntersville Sally Gail York, age 51, of Union Grove James Phillip Kemp passed away at age 77 Don Lamar Sanders passed away at age 68 Gloria Jean Fuller passed away at age 73 David Isaiah Ellis passed away at age 30 Glenda Ruth Byrd passed away at age 78 Ted Stanley Harris passed away at age 69 Etowah Memorial Chapel James Lightsey, age 69, of Boaz Pamela Jane Karr, age 57, of Gadsden Betty Fern Henry Talton, age 84, of Boaz James "Buddy" Lamar Howard, Jr., age 82, of Boaz Hannah Grace Dumas, age 20, of Altoona Fredia Karene Johnson, age 58, of Horton Karen Elizabeth Beatenbough, age 63, of Boaz Ben Holland, age 68, of Boaz Mickey Darlene Cason Mashburn, age 65, of Crossville Judy Carol Jackson, age 73, of Gallant Patricia Ann Langston, age 75, of Boaz F. Wayne Stephens, age 82, of Duck Springs Clyde "Arthur" Mims, age 75, of Boaz Christopher Ashley Simmons, age 40, of Boaz Salena Ballentine Phillips, age 51, of Boaz Beverly Smith, age 78, of Boaz Junior Hale, age 81, of Boaz Kerby Funeral Home in Henagar Joy Krisandra Heath, age 66, of Pisgah Helen Jo Justice, age 67, of Valley Head Nira Matlock, age 80, of Ider Frances Lee Cyree, age 78, of Henagar Mary Imogene Stoner, age 88, of Henagar Rev. Darryl Watkins, age 78, of Flat Rock Kila Sizemore Rewcastle, age 68, of Henagar Donna Jo Sartin, age 68, of Pisgah Paul Brown, age 70, of Pisgah

Founty W. Hixson, age 92, of Henagar M. L. Thompson, age 83, of Pisgah

Lemley Funeral Home in Oneonta

Randy Lee Owens, age 66, of Guntersville

Marshall Memorial Funeral Home Ronald Bowman Jr., passed away at age 54 Robbie Ann Roden Perkins, age 78, of Marshall County Robert Page Keeton, passed away at age 79 Marzell R. Southerland, age 88, of Albertville McRae Funeral Home in Boaz Alene Beaty, age 97, of Boaz Erma Dean Payne, age 83, of Boaz Dorothy "Dot" Brasher, age 90, of Boaz Janith Hill, age 78, of Altoona Virginia Hardeman Edmondson, age 96, of Boaz Catherine Roberts Alred, age 71, of Boaz Randy Lawson, age 67, of Guntersville James Lambert, age 88, of Boaz Rosemary Freeman Wilson, age 79, of Boaz Morgan Funeral Chapel and Crematory Cathy Terry Bishop, passed away at age 55 Jeanette McNaron Halsey, age 90, of Gadsden JM Barnes, age 87, of Steele Shelia Ramsom, age 61, of Attalla Frank Sanford Tomasello, age 75, of Gadsden Glenda Faye Watson, age 82, of Attalla Linda Owens Robinson, passed away at age 77 Shirley B. Wood, age 84, of Attalla Charlsie Merchant Minton, passed away at age 87 Terry Sue Hyatt, age 72, of Steele Michael Allan Copeland, passed away at age 70 Thomas Earl Epperson, age 73, of Attalla Debora Darcell Turner, age 66, of Gadsden Shelbie Carol Pinkerton, age 83, of Gadsden Jack Samuel Peterson, age 69, of Rainbow City Johnny Dee Ledbetter passed away at age 77 Stephen Charles Prater passed away at age 28 Timothy Wayne Davis passed away at age 56 Elna B. Rains, age 90, of Attalla Roy Lee Wood, age 82, of Gadsden Robert Edgar Overstreet III, age 84, of Attalla Martha Lorene Deweese, age 86, of Steele Cheryl Jean Keener Moore, age 73, Oneonta Carolyn V. Perkins, age 72, of Boaz Joanne M. French passed away at age 91 James Eddie Smith, age 60, of Boaz Tommy R. Rowe, age 75, of Boaz Martha Brothers Wilson, age 86, of Sardis Charles W. Smith, age 90, of Boaz Sheena G. Bishop, age 75, of Boaz Eva Fay Simmons, age 79, of Attalla Pauline L. Fowler, age 89, of Gadsden William "Bull" Thomas Jones, age 71, of Attalla Jennifer Elaine Andrews, age 56, of Attalla Halie Danelle Bullock Jones passed away at age 34 Trissie Eulaine Barron, age 83, of Gadsden William Thomas Sherrell, age 54, of Attalla Marie Williams, age 92, of Attalla

Glen E. Gray, age 71, of Rainbow City Harlan Daugherty, age 73, of Southside

Rainsville Funeral Home

Milford Warren, age 89, of Rainsville Joan E. Neeley, age 75, of Fort Payne Gaynell Furgerson Croft Burke, age 83, of Sylvania Brian Black, age 50, of Albertville (formerly of Rainsville)

Debora Willingham, age 64, of Fyffe William H. Freeman, age 91, Flat Rock Leta Stephenson, age 86, of Hartselle David Farrior, age 61, of Fyffe

Gary Gibbs, age 69, of Albertville Brandon Davis, age 28, of Crossville

FSC Christopher Lee Berry, age 40, of Enterprise Alfred Arland Crosby, Sr., age 70, of Rainsville Robert McInnes, age 68, of Fort Payne Wilson C. Thomas, Sr., age 85, of Rainsville

Geraldine Funeral Home Timothy "Dock" Wilson, age 62, of Geraldine

Find Sports at www.TheSportsLedger.com Around Alabama Spikes Used in Car Chase On February 23, 2022, around 2:00 a.m. the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office attempted a traffic stop on a rented Kia sedan near the Beach Express and U.S. 98. The stop was for suspicious activity deputies witnessed near a convenience store. The vehicle failed to yield and a pursuit ensued that went through Foley, Fairhope, Daphne and into Spanish Fort. Deputies used tire deflating spikes to slow the vehicle during the pursuit but the driver kept going. The vehicle ultimately hit a tree and caught fire behind the Ace Hardware in Spanish Fort. Two suspects were arrested. The driver, Travis Duff (39) of Decatur GA was transported to the hospital for back injuries. He has since been released and is in the Baldwin County Corrections Center. Duff is charged with drug trafficking, reckless endangerment, attempt to elude and certain persons forbidden to possess a pistol. Duff has no bond. The passenger, Amanda Whitaker (37) of Gulf Shores, AL. Was charged with drug trafficking and active warrants. Whitaker has no bond. During the pursuit, deputies witnessed a bag being thrown from the vehicle. The bag contained several ounces ounces of suspected methamphetamine, a pistol and drug paraphernalia. The driver of the vehicle was operating the vehicle extremely recklessly by driving on the wrong side of the road and through traffic control devices with no regard for public safety. Trade Excellence Awards Alabama Governor Kay Ivey recently recognized seven Alabama companies for success in selling their goods and services in markets across the globe, helping to sustain robust export activities that create jobs and spark economic growth across the state. Alabama exports totaled nearly $20.9 billion in 2021, an increase of more than 21.8% from the 2020 figure. Alabama’s goods and services were purchased in 189 countries last year, with Germany, Canada, China, Mexico and South Korea the leading destinations. In addition, Governor Ivey recognized William Cummins, executive state director of the Alabama Small Business Development Center Network, for excellence in trade advocacy. Cummins has directed the activities of the Alabama SBDC Network, which seeks to enhance economic growth across the state by providing management and technical assistance to small businesses, since 2011. During a 30-year career in banking, he served in international trade finance with banks in the Southeast and in other roles that advanced trade. The business recipients of the 2022 Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards are: • Cherokee Fabrication Co. (Salem): Founded by Roy Owens, Paul Owens and Jerry Scarborough as a light metal fabrication shop, the Lee County company has served the cotton industry for 25 years. Its international footprint now encompasses ginning operations in North America, South America, Africa and Australia. • CleBer LLC (Paint Rock): The Jackson County company’s open design system for its Oggún tractor makes all parts available off the shelf, empowering small farmers. Customers can purchase tractors made in Alabama or license the design. • Continental Aerospace Technologies (Mobile): A global leader in general aviation, Continental is the only U.S. company to offer a full range of new piston aircraft engines, as well as a full-service factory Maintenance Repair and Overhaul center. In business since 1906, the company has more than 600 employees. • Eastern Technologies Inc. (Ashford): The Houston County company provides Personal Protective Clothing to the nuclear and other industries. It is a leader in the field of radiological laundry services, protective clothing supply, and radiological laundry system design. • iCubate Inc. (Huntsville): iCubate provides fast, accurate and affordable testing assays to laboratories, helping improve patient care outcomes. Its international activities include a licensing agreement with a Chinese oncology diagnostics firm and a joint venture with an infectious disease diagnostics company in China. • Nelson Brothers (Birmingham): Nelson produces chemicals that are used by manufacturers of emulsions around the world for applications in mining and construction. To expand its global business footprint, it began producing specialty chemicals as additives in lubricants, metal working and oil recovery processes. • SynVivo (Huntsville): SynVivo’s tissue/organ-on-chip platform provides a biologically realistic microenvironment to enable better prediction of human responses for drug development and personalized medicine applications. $11.9 investment to bring over 550 jobs to Alabama BELLA+CANVAS, an apparel manufacturer with a “Made in the U.S.A” focus, has announced plans to open an advanced fabric-cutting facility in Wetumpka, AL The company expects that it will create over 550 jobs. Los Angeles-based BELLA+CANVAS will invest $11.9 million to establish the operation in a portion of an 890,000-square-foot building vacant since 2013, when Russell Brands departed from the Elmore County city. BELLA+CANVAS produces clothing for the retail and wholesale markets, while also offering clothing design and manufacturing services. The company is known for its domestic manufacturing mission, the development of innovative new fabrics and its sustainability practices. BELLA+CANVAS employs over 1,000 people at a Los Angeles cutting facility it calls North America’s most advanced, thanks to proprietary software and cutting tables that enable the cutting of about 3 million garments per week. The Wetumpka facility is expected to be modeled after this operation. The 557 jobs being created at the newAlabama facility will include spreaders, general cutting laborers, forklift operators, shipping and receiving clerks and administrative staff. The average annual wages expected is $46,000.

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March 2022

The Sports Ledger

Secretary of State John H. Merrill has announce that during his tenure the State of Alabama has added more than two million newly registered voters. As of a press release from his office on March 7, 2022, Alabama has 3,625,249 total registered voters, and 2,000,957 of those voters have registered since January 19, 2015. Over that same period, 1,367,770 voters have been removed through the regular voter list maintenance process. Following his election, Secretary Merrill was determined to transform the Secretary of State’s Elections Division into an efficient and voter-focused operation. Under his direction, the Elections Division embraced technological advancements that modernized election administration in our state. According to Merrill, Alabama has introduced electronic poll books throughout the state, as well as made changes to the voter registration system to ensure that Alabama is in full compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA). Additionally, Secretary Merrill brought together community leaders, elected officials, and private citizens to review the felony disenfranchisement laws, which ultimately led to reforming the state’s list of offenses that are designated as crimes of moral turpitude. "After reviewing the state’s compliance with the federal law, our office determined that the state needed to coordinate with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) to become compliant with the NVRA. Federal law requires that Alabamians are given the opportunity to register to vote when they obtain a new license or update their existing license," state Merrill. Ultimately, the partnership between the Secretary of State’s Office and ALEA led to the creation of the state’s online voter registration system, which verifies an individual’s identity by cross-checking their information with ALEA’s Driver License >Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12

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