The ribbon was cut on Bargain Hunt in Cullman on Friday, April 13. (Nick Griffin for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - Bargain Hunt’s brand-new Cullman location opened its doors to a long line of customers Friday morning but not until they donated to a local nonprofit. Bargain Hunt kicked off its grand opening with a $1,000 donation to Karma in Cullman. Karma in Cullman works with those in the community who need a hand up, whether that be through food assistance, yard sales, clothing, furniture, household items, books or toys. Its founder, Rachel Bryant, was moved by the contribution and accepted a check from Bargain Hunt at Friday morning’s ribbon cutting.

“I know that stuff like this happens for a lot of other organizations, but this is a life-changing $1,000 for us,” Bryant said. “When they called me, I was just speechless and I’m about to cry now but this is going to be life-changing in this community.”

Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce President Leah Bolin addressed the staff and management of the new store before the ribbon cutting and explained why she and the chamber are excited about Bargain Hunt joining the community.

“We’re really happy that you’re here and we can see that you’re happy you’re about to open. I had so many people call the chamber and ask about when Bargain Hunt was going to be open. I think you’re going to do really, really well here; we’re very excited and we want you to know that we are here for you and we are your resource,” Bolin said. “I know you’re already giving back through charitable donations, so we know that you’re going to be a great community partner with the city of Cullman.”

Bargain Hunt Store Leader Stuart Downing spoke to the chamber representatives and his staff just before the ceremony and reiterated their excitement for opening the new location.

“We’re just really excited to be a part of the Cullman community,” Downing said. “We’re very thankful for the opportunity to bring the business here and we think we’re going to do really well because we have a lot of great things to offer at a great price. We’ve got so much enthusiasm to be a part of the community and we’re just really looking forward to being here with you guys.”

Bargain Hunt is located at 1721 Second Ave. SW next to Planet Fitness.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - Below are the arrests reported for April 12. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

Aaron, Benjamin Lee, 39

• FTA- third-degree domestic violence- harassment

Bates, Mary Ellen, ,53

• possession of drug paraphernalia
• speeding- reasonable & prudent
• unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Brasher, Tracy Nicole, 27

• FTA- DUI
• improper lane usage
• illegal possession of prescription medicine

Campbell, Joshua Adam, 34

• first-degree receiving stolen property

Cupp, Terry Dewayne, 47

• probation violation- unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Floyd, Jeremy Dewayne, 35

• FTA- negotiating a worthless negotiable instrument

Hobbs, Justin Matthew, 36

• first-degree unlawful possession of marijuana not for personal use
• possession of drug paraphernalia
• unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Johns, Deann Elaine, 53

• unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Jones, Jonathan Ray, 38

• FTA- second-degree assault

Lanier, Mikeal Steavin, 23

• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia

Mitchell, Brittany Thomas, 28

• obstructing government operations

Newsome, Marcus Wendell, 25

• probation violation- third-degree burglary

Paulino, Claudius, 30

• obstructing government operations
• resisting arrest

Pearson, Bridget Dawn, 44

• FTA- driving while revoked

Stanton, Jason Adam, 30

• FTA- liability insurance required

White, Charles C. Jr., 44

• FTA- negotiating a worthless negotiable instrument

Wood, Mason lee, 27

• indecent exposure

Wynn, Gregory Paul, 42

• possession of drug paraphernalia
• unlawful manufacture of a controlled substance

Cullman Police Department

Jones, Jonathan R., 38

• FTA- resisting arrest
• FTA- driving while suspended
• FTA- insurance violation

Montgomery, Christopher E., 30

• FTA- fourth-degree theft of property

Sterling, Harry W., 63

• DUI

Siniard, Billy J., 40

• unlawful possession or receipt of a controlled substance
• driving while suspended
• switched tag
• insurance violation

Woods, Arron B., 17 (adult status)

• unlawful breaking and entering of a motor vehicle (4 counts)

Hanceville Police Department

No arrests reported.

Find arrest reports online Monday-Friday at www.CullmanTribune.com.

Cullman City School Board President Suzanne Harbin, left, presented the certificate to Superintendent Dr. Susan Patterson at this week’s board meeting. (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - Cullman City Schools Superintendent Dr. Susan Patterson was honored recently for earning National Superintendent Certification. Patterson was among 30 superintendents recognized for successfully completing the prestigious National Superintendent Certification Program, administered by AASA, The School Superintendents Association. The recognition ceremony was part of AASA’s National Conference on Education, Feb. 15-17, 2018, in Nashville.

 “AASA’s National Superintendent Certification Program is among the best professional development opportunities I’ve ever had as an educator,” said Patterson.

“The program focuses on a number of key skills successful superintendents need to thrive. As our nation works to strengthen our public schools, I would highly encourage other school boards to submit their superintendent for application,” stated Suzanne Harbin, president of the Cullman City School Board.

Launched in 2013, the certification process is spread over 18 months and is tailored for superintendents who have been in the job five years or fewer. The forums, seminars and coaching provide opportunities to define and examine issues that surface in real-life situations.

These issues include: providing world-class instructional leadership; building and managing a district budget; mastering effective communication and political skills; and using 21st century technology effectively in instruction and management.

“Cullman City Schools continues to devote itself to quality professional development from the classroom to the superintendent office. We believe that our continued success is connected to the learning of our leaders and teachers as we move forward in providing the best opportunities for our students. Dr. Patterson’s recognition as a National Certified Superintendent is a testament to our commitment that parallels that of National Board-Certified Teachers,” added Harbin.

Patterson was recognized by the school board at its meeting this week.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The grand prizes that will be given away at this year's Pilot Club Fashion Show & Luncheon (Peggy Harris)

CULLMAN - Need some inspiration for your spring and summer wardrobe? If your closet looks like it needs a make-over with fresh new colors, textures and accessories you’ll want to hurry down to the Cullman County Museum or the Cullman Civic Center and purchase a ticket to the 26th annual Pilot Club of Cullman Fashion Show & Luncheon!

The event, this year themed “Material Girl,” will take place on Wednesday, April 25 at 11 a.m. at the civic center.

“No tickets will be sold at the door this year,” cautioned co-chair if the event, Pilot Club member Peggy Harris. “This will be a wonderful event that you won’t want to miss; each attendee will receive an envelope filled with coupons from local merchants and vendors, plus a delicious meal catered by Applebee’s, and a fun look at the latest fashions, all for the ticket price of $20!”      

The event is one of several fundraisers which benefit Pilot Club projects. The organization supports the local Pilot Light House, an emergency harbor for abused children, as well as helping to fund the Field of Miracles and Project Lifesaver which provides bracelets equipped with a transmitter that locates patients with brain disorders such as dementia in the event that they become lost or separated from their families.                                                 

Eleven area merchants will be presenting this year’s look at the latest fashions. The Master of Ceremonies, local State Farm agent, Katherine Morgan, is also a member of the Pilot Club.

This year’s sponsors are: Mr. Hick’s Menswear, MoMo She, Belk, Better Than Before, the Sweetheart Tree, Options, Tre Bellezze Boutique, Jennifer’s Treasures, Younique Sophistication, Be Blessed Boutique and Dixie Duds and Decor.                     

One of the highlights of the Pilot Club Fashion Show is the drawing for fabulous door prizes. This year’s grand prizes are:

• A half-carat solitaire chocolate diamond in a 14k rose gold bezel pendant mounted on a 20-inch 14k rose gold chain. Valued at $2,000, donated by Doug Doggett Jewelers.
• A Sterling silver bracelet with a citrine stone surrounded by small diamonds.  Valued at $255 from Ed White Jewelers
• A two-day, three-night stay at Emerald Beach in Panama City Beach, courtesy of Abbott Vacation Rentals

“You must be present to win,” stressed Harris. “These are just three of many prizes donated by our generous local merchants.”

There will also be 14 local vendors on hand to make your shopping even more convenient.  Lunch will be Applebee’s great grilled-chicken salad with a variety of dressings from which to choose. Beverages are donated by People’s Bank.         

At a glance

26th annual Pilot Club of Cullman Fashion Show & Luncheon

Wednesday, April 25

Doors open at 11 a.m.

Lunch served at 11:30 a.m.

Event begins at noon

Tickets on sale at the Cullman Civic Center and the Cullman County Museum.  Tickets are $20 and none will be available at the door, so be sure to purchase prior to the event.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Runners take part in the fifth annual Rock and Glow 5K Run/Walk Friday night at Sportsman Lake Park (Nick Griffin for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - Sportsman Lake Park was a little brighter Friday night, as Cullman County Parks and Recreation (CCP&R) hosted its fifth annual Rock and Glow 5K Run/Walk, with more than 200 runners turning out to participate. Music was played across the course and from the main stage near the starting line, giving the event a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

CCP&R Director Doug Davenport said he is always happy to put on Rock and Glow, because it’s a good way to raise money for the park while also having a good time.

“Everything we make from this goes back into the park, whether that’s upgrading playground equipment or anything else,” Davenport said. “It’s fun for the staff and a great way to add a little extra revenue for the park so we can do some things we wouldn’t normally have the money in the budget to do.”

This year’s weather was just about perfect for running, but that hasn’t always been the case for the Rock and Glow run. Davenport and his staff were able to take advantage of the great weather and some new park upgrades to put on the best event possible.

“I think we had 162 sign up early and we usually get 30-50 that’ll sign up on the night so maybe we’ll have 200-250, something like that. I think our second year we had about 400, but these things kind of come in cycles. If we make it through tonight it’ll be the first year that it hasn’t rained,” Davenport said. “We added our cornhole boards out here and bought this 12-foot beachball for people to play with. It’ll be the first time we have a race on the new track that we got with grant money from Auburn Obesity (Auburn University Food Systems Institute Obesity Working Group). They gave us $33,000 and we extended the walking track almost a mile so we’re working to get it to where we don’t have to go outside the park but we’re still having to go outside just a little bit.”

There were several competitive runners that were in fourth gear from the starting gun, but the main purpose of the night was for families and friends to come out, have fun and be active together.

“We usually put the people that are really serious up front and they’ll be able get their times and everything, but this is more family-oriented. That’s why we call it a run/walk/dance event. It’s just something where more or less people can just come out, play with a beachball and have a great afternoon.”

The race’s Overall Winner/First Male Finisher was Aaron Brown (17:28). The First Female Finisher was Marlena Ramirez (21:49).

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The bar features custom shelving, 12 draught beers, and its own line of signature cocktails. (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - Cullman’s newest eatery, 412 Public House, this week quietly opened its doors at 412 Second Ave. SE, near Christ Lutheran Church.  Stephen Gannon and Trey Jordan, along with husband-wife chef/mixologist team Rico and Christine Nishimura, hosted a few private functions early in the week, but welcomed their first regular guests just in time for lunch on Thursday.

Jordan said, “Monday, we had a few hiccups. And then Tuesday went phenomenally, as smooth as we could have asked for it to go--certainly didn’t expect it to go that smooth!  And then Wednesday lunch was relatively reserved . . . Each night has probably provided us an opportunity to learn different paces of how to work, so it was a great way to start, in terms of today.”

“I always have to give all credit, in terms of the inspiration and the idea, back to Trey,” said Gannon, “and I always thought it was a fantastic idea from the outset.  But, most recently, obviously, it’s been a sprint to the starting line, for sure, as far as just getting it all pulled together. And of course, we have fantastic partners with Christine and Rico, who we could not be doing this without.”

Deep and narrow with tables arranged around a massive bar, the eatery has more of the cozy feel of an upscale pub than a formal restaurant.  The team offers a variety of foods, but hopes to be known for its steaks, signature cocktails, and especially for its seafood dishes.

Said Gannon, “I think Chef Rico is just absolutely known for just amazing seafood- his flavors.  I know he keeps those recipes close to his vest.”

Gannon and Jordan also credited a number of local contractors and crafters who built and furnished the building, including architect/designer Frank Fagg, builders Jacob and Debbie Wood from Nearen Construction, Tim Rutherford and sons who built the backbar storage and display, Paul Moss who built the tables and bar top, Mandy Maples who supplied artwork, Amy Wood who did the interior design, Bark-Ley Plumbing and Baird Electric.

412 Public House will be open Tuesday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to midnight, Saturday 10 a.m. to midnight, Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and will closed on Mondays.

Find out more at www.facebook.com/412publichouse.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CPD officers practice photographing blood stains. (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - The classroom and training house at the Cullman Police Department (CPD) have been a bloody mess this week, and with good reason.  Investigators from multiple law enforcement agencies came there to take part in a 40-hour class from Monday through Friday, learning how to read blood stains like a fortune teller’s tea leaves.  Students studied and practiced analyzing the patterns of blood spatter, gathering and preserving blood evidence, photographing and sketching blood stains at a crime scene, and even presenting blood evidence in a mock court setting.

The class included officers from CPD, the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, Jasper Police Department, Hoover Police Department, Huntsville Police Department, Calera Police Department, Alabaster Police Department, a forensic investigator from Birmingham, and even an officer from the Elkhart, Indiana Sheriff’s Office.

Jan Johnson, a forensic specialist with training company Forensic Pieces, talked about what the students were learning:

“I’ve set up mock scenes for the students, reproducing patterns that we’ve discussed in the class.  So, their job is to go in and document: photograph, sketch, do measurements, sample the blood, and then identify the patterns.  And again, the patterns within the scene can give you volumes of information regarding the scene reconstruction.

“Without this training, a lot of times people don’t understand the patterns.  They can’t interpret it, and you can come up with a solution to the crime by looking at the blood patterns.  The blood will give you volumes of information for crime scene reconstruction.”

According to Johnson, blood patterns on victims, walls, floors, ceilings, furniture and on suspects’ clothing are keys to establishing the truth in many violent crime cases.

One out-of-town investigator, who could not be identified due to his department’s policy, told The Tribune, “This is a great class.  It helps us, on a scene, to be able to tell--where I see the value in it--is being able to tell perhaps what happened. When we’re interviewing someone that may be a suspect in a crime, we can see whether their statements are consistent with the scene--what we see at the scene--or whether they’re not, and actually hold them accountable to it.

“Also, when it comes to court now, it takes more training to do this, but the hope is that, over time, that you get to a point where you can actually reconstruct what happened by looking at the blood.”

According to CPD Capt. of Investigation Becky Boyd, upcoming forensic classes this year include crime scene photography and sketching.  

Said Boyd, “I’m grateful to have this opportunity to have this kind of training here in the department.  The investigators that are in this class are doing a really good job, and I’m proud of them, obviously. But, unfortunately, it’s the times we live in, where this type of skill set is necessary, you know, and it’s part of our job.  So we’re really glad to have this opportunity to get this training, and continue moving forward with it.

“Our commitment is always to do the best we can on any crime scene.  You know, any time you’re working that type of scene, there’s obviously some type of tragedy involved.  But we want to come in, and sometimes what we do may seem like we’re insensitive. But really it’s the most sensitive thing we can do, to work that scene to the very best of our ability--to be the truth finders, the fact finders, to be able to tell, because that victim has got a loved one, and we want to be able to be an advocate for that victim.”

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The collection of ticks using sticky tape shows the abundance of ticks in certain areas in Alabama. (Emily Merritt)

As a turkey hunter, I am keenly aware of the threat posed by sneaking through the Alabama woods. And I’m not talking about the danger of encountering a member of the serpent family.

I’m talking about something much, much smaller but possibly just as harmful.

It’s the family of ticks that turkey hunters dread each spring, and the prevalence of disease-carrying ticks is becoming more evident each year.

Emily Merritt, a research associate at Auburn University’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, has been working on a project, with funding assistance provided from the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (Pittman-Robertson) through the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF), since 2015 to determine the species of ticks in Alabama and their ranges.

Merritt said a study on ticks and tick-related illnesses hadn’t been done since the early 1990s, and it was very limited in scope.

The study that started in 2015 was to update and expand that research to include field collection sites for ticks.

“We collected ticks once a month for a year,” Merritt said. “We were all over the state. We also worked with WFF wildlife biologists to collect ticks off of deer for all three years and with the USDA (Department of Agriculture) to get ticks off of raccoons for two years.”

The most commonly collected ticks included the Lone Star tick, the Gulf Coast tick, the black-legged tick (aka deer tick) and the American dog tick.

The Lone Star tick is the most common tick in Alabama and can transmit a host of diseases, including the alpha-gal red meat allergy, Southern rash disease (a Lyme-like illness), tick paralysis and spotted fever diseases that are closely related to Rocky Mountain spotted fever. A white dot in the middle of the tick’s back is the reason for the Lone Star name.

“We found that the Lone Star tick and the Gulf Coast tick are the most aggressive,” Merritt said. “They hunt down their prey. Some ticks sit and wait, but the Lone Star and Gulf Coast ticks will actively seek out hosts. Turkey hunters complain that when they’re hunting they can actually see ticks crawling to them. Usually, that’s the Lone Star tick. I’ve also heard it called the turkey tick.”

Merritt said the Lone Star tick is found primarily in hardwood stands, while the Gulf Coast tick, which is a little larger and transmits similar diseases, is found primarily in more open areas with shrubs.

“The Gulf Coast tick likes areas like new clear-cuts, and they are found in controlled burn areas,” she said. “These are harsh, hot environments where you don’t often find ticks, but the Gulf Coast tick loves it.”

The tick that has gained the most notoriety because of its association with Lyme disease is the black-legged tick.

“It is the main culprit for spreading Lyme disease, but it also can spread other illnesses, like anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and tularemia,” Merritt said. “We find black-legged ticks equally in pine and hardwood stands.”

Merritt said the American dog tick also can transmit all the diseases associated with the other tick species.

“As the name implies, they bite dogs a lot,” she said. “We find them in people’s backyards, especially if they’ve got a nice, green lawn and a nearby wooded area. Obviously, people’s dogs are at risk. If their kids play in the backyard or if you’re gardening or landscaping in the yard, people can come in contact with the American dog tick.”

At one time, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) insisted that Lyme disease was limited to the Northeast U.S., with a concentration of the disease around Lyme, Conn. In recent years, the presence of Lyme-like disease (Lyme borreliosis) has been acknowledged in Alabama.

“Lyme disease refers to one specific bacteria,” Merritt said. “Lyme borreliosis indicates there is a host of similarly related bacteria that cause illness in Alabama.

“Another thing we hear from doctors is there is no Rocky Mountain spotted fever here. That’s not true at all. The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has been tracking this. The problem with the CDC and other health agencies is they don’t consider it much of an issue down here. But it definitely is an issue.”

In fact, a graphic from ADPH shows that spotted fever-type illnesses have skyrocketed in recent years compared to the other tick-related illnesses.

“People are getting sick from ticks down here,” Merritt said. “So it’s counterproductive for those agencies to say it’s rare. If you are an outdoors person your chances of coming in contact with these ticks is pretty decent. There is definitely a risk.

“One of the reasons I’m trying to get the word out, and when we publish our research (later this year), is we really need doctors to recognize that these tick-borne illnesses are here in Alabama.”

One aspect of Merritt’s research includes a survey conducted through the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The survey was sent to hunters and anglers to ask about their experiences, knowledge of and costs associated with ticks and tick-borne illnesses.

For those who spend time outdoors, Merritt said the project research found that the most effective deterrent for tick attachment is a spray that contains permethrin.

“You don’t apply it to your skin,” Merritt said. “You spray it on your clothes, boots, hats, socks, backpacks, basically any fabric. When I go camping, I spray my tents and tarps with it. Depending on what brand you get, it will last anywhere from two weeks or two washings to six weeks and six washings.

“More so than bug spray, we found that the products with permethrin significantly reduced the amount of ticks we encountered. It also works well on other biting insects like chiggers and mosquitoes.”

 Although the likelihood of contact with ticks is higher during the warmer months, Merritt said the insects are active year-round in Alabama.

“Be on the lookout, not only on pets, but your children, your loved ones and yourself,” she said. “If you go outside, there is the potential to come in contact with ticks. When you come back inside, check your clothes and gear immediately to see if there are any crawling ticks on you, your pets or children. Then take it a step further and check your body thoroughly for ticks. If you need to use a mirror or a partner, do that. Ticks can hide in all sorts of areas that are hard to see.

“And the longer a tick is attached, the better the chances are to get a tick-borne illness if that tick is harboring that illness.”

If you do find a tick attached to your body, Merritt said don’t haphazardly try to remove the insect.

“Don’t try to pick it off with your fingers or burn it off with a match or anything like that,” she said. “Get tweezers and get as close to the skin as you possibly can. Firmly grasp the tick where it attached to your body and start pulling with steady, even pressure until it eventually releases. It might be uncomfortable and a little painful, but you want to get that tick off as soon as you can.”

Merritt said tick-borne illnesses may cause symptoms as early as a couple of days, but symptoms could also occur as late as a couple of months after the exposure.

“If you start to experience flu-like symptoms, like aches and pain, or you see an expanding red rash, sometimes spotted and sometimes circular, you need to see a doctor,” she said. “It’s normal for a bite to be red, but if you see an expanding rash or it seems to be spreading to other parts of your body, that’s a clear indication that you do have a tick-borne illness.”

Merritt said if the tick is found it can be saved for testing by taping it to an index card, placing it in a freezer bag and storing it in the freezer.

“But don’t wait for test results,” she said. “If you think you have a tick-borne illness, your doctor should go ahead and start treatment. For most tick-borne illnesses, that involves treatment with antibiotics. For tick paralysis, it’s removal of the tick. For the alpha-gal allergy there is no treatment. You just have to avoid eating red meat, and that’s terrible.”

For more information, go to www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-2315/ANR-2315.pdf or www.alabamalymedisease.org, the Alabama Lyme Disease Association’s website.

“You got to purse your lips like this” - Sebastian (Justin Weygand) coaches Ariel (Marie Bean) on how to win over Prince Eric (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - On Friday evening, among the hottest and most scarce commodities in the city of Cullman were empty seats in the Cullman High School auditorium, as the community packed the house to see the CHS Performing Arts production of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.”  Family members and friends of the huge cast and crew came to support their own, families with young children turned out in droves for the Disney-based story, and the ambitious production and brand-new stage effects created its own draw for kids of all ages.

Before the curtain rose, CHS Theatre Director Wayne Cook said, “We’re very excited!  This is our second public performance, and we expect there to be a large crowd here tonight. We had a really good crowd last night, but we expect there to be a lot of people.”

The theater troupe gave multiple abbreviated performances for school groups during the days leading up to opening night on Thursday, and Cook was pleased to have the opportunity to present the complete show during the public events.

“Our kids have been tremendous,” said Cook.  “They have outperformed themselves this year, and just done a great job.  And we’ve had a lot of great feedback from the people, and we’re very excited about it.

“I’m very proud of these kids.  They work hard. I’ve often said that our community has tremendous talent.  You know, what my privilege is is to be able to just kind of direct it, mold it, shape it and put it into places where it can be seen.

“That’s what we do: myself and Ms. Skinner.  And of course, I work with two other people: Sarah Jane Skinner--who’s our choral director here, and Nohe Naehu--she’s with The Factory dance studio, but she’s also our choreographer and she teaches here at the school.  And so, it’s kind of like having a dream team of people that work with these kids, just all the different elements we have going on here for a production like this. It’s been great, and these kids love all of them, and they work hard and respond to this, so it’s a big honor to be able to work with these kids, and we look forward to keeping that going.”

Ariel herself

The Tribune caught up with the little mermaid herself, Marie Bean, before the show started.  She talked about playing the iconic role:

“It’s been so much fun, but also very nerve-wracking, because, like, I want to portray the part correct, so all the kids can enjoy just as I did as a kid watching the movie.  And I feel like I’ve done a pretty good job of that, and I’m very proud of myself. And I take pride in what I do, because I really enjoy it every single day. So, yeah, it’s been a really fun and exciting experience.”

The biggest challenge?

“The biggest challenge is right before I go onstage.  That is when I get the most nervous, but once I swim out there, everything’s fine.  It’s like all of it just goes away.”

The most fun part?

“The most fun is getting to do it with all of my friends.  It’s truly a family, and just being together every single day, going through the motions.  I’d say just experiencing it all is the most fun for me.”

The goal for CHS Performing Arts

Said Cook, “You know, our idea was to try to provide quality theater for the community and teach these kids what high quality theater is.  We really try to achieve something that’s not your typical high school production. I mean, we want it to be something that people say, ‘Well, that’s not what I expected from a high school performance.’  That’s our goal. Sometimes we achieve it--most of the time we achieve it. I feel like we’ve done that this year. They hear that from us; we give them high expectations, and they rise.”

Cast and crew

“Mermaid” was a massive all-hands-on-deck production for CHS Performing Arts, with a huge cast and crew including:

Principals

Ariel - Marie Bean

Sebastian - Justin Weygand

Scuttle - Blake Tetro

Prince Eric - Jady Pipes

King Triton - Rutland Turner

Ursula - Abby West

Flounder - Powers Bates and Slade Turbyfill

Ariel Understudy - Laci New

Ariel Body Double - Isabella Allred

Prince Eric Understudy/Body Double - Cameron Baumgartner

Grimsby - Graffin Shaddrix

Flotsam - Ethan Hendrix

Jetsam - David Goymer

Chef Louis - Grant Holland

Aquata - Alyssa Sandlin

Andrina - Isabella Allred

Arista - Kayla Watts

Atina - Natalie Thrasher

Adella - Mary Claire Page

Allana - Laci New

Pilot - Matthew Smith

Windward - Devon Campbell

Leeward - Adam Cooner

Maid #1 - Winter Murray

Maid #2 - Madison Smith

Maid #3 - Olivia Holbrook

Seagulls - Sam Jones, Cameron Baumgartner, Clay Brown, and Matthew Smith

Princesses - Tiffany Dotson, Avery Barlow, Chandler Greer, Dana Cordes, Mallory Johnson and Kate Rains

Chef Staff - Jubal Lindsey, Devon Campbell, Adam Cooner, Trent Lee, John Dudley and Harrison Drake

Maids - Emma Laidley, Anna Kammerlocher, Olivia Noblett, Brooke Quattlebaum, Sayra Milne, Chloe Zinsmeister and Selena Yanez

Sailors - Dany Dong, Dawson Culver, Macey Orr, Isabel Newby, Zach Harbison, Jared Spears, Caleb Brown, Grant Holland, Clay Brown, Sam Jones, Evie Lee and Cameron Baumgartner

Sea Creatures - Mattie Green, Jessie Thiot, Katie Mason, Chelsea Hallmark, Emily Gable, Chloe Camille, Brianna Phenicie, Chloe Bales, Miracle Corley, Bethanie Smith, Jenn Netherton, Jaden Whaley, Caitlin Bates, Emma Kate Price, Maggie Keeton, Audrey Nicholas, Emily Bell, Angelina Hughes, Anabelle Howse, Harrison Drake, Claire Chandler, Kaitlyn Smith and Lauren Chapin

Crustacean Band - Devon Campbell, Adam Cooner, and Harrison Drake

Crabs - Kaley Eaton, Brooklyn Hankey, Emma Heaton, Katie Heaton, Josie Rice, Bailey Schuman, Brie Turner and Lily West

Under the Sea Dancers - Lillimae Allen, Leah Bowden, Chloe Carter, Anna Franklin, Kate Davis Heatherly, Presley Lafon, Brittany Lee, Courtney Lee, Millie LaGanke, and Abby Sosa

Lightning Bugs- Kameron Elder-hart, Brie Miller, Kalea Rowan, Nia Smith and Savanna Ball

Swamp Ladies - Lillian Bowers, Breanna Cain, Emma Laidley, Olivia Holbrook and Macey Orr

Scuttle’s Friends - Abbi Black, Sarah Grace Brown, Sophia Flanigan, Ava Claire Foust, Bailee Henderson, Brenyn Hale, Campbell Kent, Carter Kent, Arleigh Kate Smothers and Logan Schuman

Student Director - Ella Morring

Tech Crew - Cole Lawrence, Lauren Thiot, Colin Baumgartner, Katherine Segars, Micah Andrews, Riley Chrisman, Christian Wilson, Emiley Gable and Rylee Reese

Stage Crew - Wes Ellard, Tyler Phillips, Jake Wachter, Lyndsey Elrod, Kellianne Mikus, Devon Campbell, Sara Reeves, Bailey Grace Smith, Morgan Shikle, Olivia Wood, Alyssa Tancredi, Coco Eddleman, Claudio Ramirez, Samarada San, Alayah Smith, Stacy Harris, Emma Mansour, Jaisa Letson, Ashley Clowers, Hayden Hovater, Clay Goble, Zonna Parr, Haley Rogus, Devan Coonter, Tyler Tisdale and Clay Pruitt

Makeup Crew - Jade Bryant, Ivy Falcon, Ishmael Martinez, Karlie Brown, Katherine Segars, Piper Hemphling, Catelin McDonald, Chloe Southerland, Maria Ayala and Emiley Gable

House Crew - Jaylee Canter, Grace Riley, Emily Robertson, Zoe Arnold, Emily Douglas, Gage Watwood, Bailee Vest, Jessica Youmans, Alissa White, Lauren Thiot, Ashlee Kuri, Taylor Trimble and Laney Burgess

Costume Crew - Winter Murray, Emma Bruce, Zoe Kelsey, Grace Riley, Morgan Schultz, Emma Shivey and Dana Cordes

Pit Choir - Maria Ayala, Brianna Alexander, Reyna Ayala Morales, Alexis Brown, Ragan Canter, Tristan Hanvey, Elyse Koloski, Lexi Stephens, Mary Watwood, Alyssa Barbee, Emma Bruce, Jade Bryant, Aubrie Covington, Ava Cox, Katelin Ferrell, Olivia Hudson, Sarah Johnson, Angela Lejarazo, Mariana Ruiz-Pedregal, Katie Smith, Emily Watwood, Adrionna Cox, Lauren Tancredi, Anya Twilley, Alli Stanford, Danique Janssen, Cort Chandler, Luke Keeton, Gage McCrary, Sebastian Pinkard, Chloe Powers, Sydney Waldrep, Gabby Walker, David Dominguez, Sam Vinson, Jaylen Hughey, Isaiah Jones, Grace Denney, Myleen Andon, Jade Barbee, Emiley Beckman, Carrie Betts, Gabriella Brown, Ashlei Bryant, Baylee Burgess, Alivia Busby, Madelyn Cain, Kristin Chau Le, Lindsey Cole, Quinteona Hicks, Ellie Howse, Bailey Hurn, Victoria Kammerlocher, Anna Lee, Emma Lindsey, Anna Page, Ina Ramirez, Ashton Shelton, Maria Silva, Karli Swann, CiCi Tran, Bercy Valverde and Stevie Wilson

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Father Joel Martin, president of Saint Bernard Prep School, takes the keys to the 2018 Jeep Renegade from Scott Spitzer, general manager of Cullman Chrysler Dodge to be awarded to the grand prize winner at the 34th Annual Bloomin’ Festival Arts and Crafts Fair in Cullman on April 21-22, 2018.

CULLMAN - Excitement is building at Saint Bernard in Cullman, as everyone on campus prepares to showcase the 34th Annual Bloomin’ Festival Arts and Crafts Fair scheduled for the weekend of April 21-22. More than 170 artisans will cover the grounds to sell their handmade works. Saint Bernard Prep and Ave Maria Grotto will combine forces to host one of the South’s favorite arts and crafts fairs.

Artisans from across the Southeastern United States will bring their creations. Pottery, jewelry, birdhouses, artwork, yard art, furniture, clothing, toys, blown glass, painted signs, handbags, hair bows, woodcarvings and freshly-made fudge are just some of the items to be found at this year’s festival.

Visitors can also enjoy watching kettle corn being popped in a huge outdoor pot, or stroll across the yard to observe local blacksmith, Allen Kress, forge plant hangers, towel racks and other items. Just feet away from the Grotto, a mill will be grinding fresh cornmeal and grits, which are so popular on southern tables.

Along with the booths of the artisans, there will be large tents serving delicious concessions to include: fresh smoked chicken, polish sausages, hamburgers and all the fixings, and ice-cold Pepsi or fresh-squeezed lemonade. Deep-fried funnel cakes have been a specialty for decades, as are the hot strawberry waffles and fresh caramel-apple chips.

Another signature item at the Bloomin’ Festival is the homemade Monk’s bread baked by Brother Benedict Dyar. In addition to Monk’s Bread, the monks will be selling their Benedictine Brew coffee.

Festival T-shirts will be available on the grounds for $20, each as well as Saint Bernard hoodies, caps and a limited number of sweatshirts.

Live entertainment provided by Saint Bernard students will be provided throughout the weekend with a special performance of blue grass music by the Cotton Pick’n Kids on Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m.

“Weather is always a factor in an outdoor event such as Bloomin’ Festival,” said festival director, Joyce Nix. “Still, the show will go on, rain or shine, unless EMA (Emergency Management Agency) advises us otherwise. Only once in the past 34 years has a show been canceled due to inclement weather,” Nix continued. “Either way, our vendors will be prepared.”

Sunday afternoon, at 5 p.m., Father Joel Martin, president of Saint Bernard Prep, will draw a lucky name from a barrel to choose the winner of a 2018 Jeep Renegade and other valuable prizes.

Sponsorships are very important to the Bloomin’ Festival as they help with promotional expenses. The school is thankful to have such wonderful support from the following businesses and encourages the community to support them as well: Cullman Chrysler Dodge, O.F. Richter and Sons, Leaffilter, Pepsi, Billy Ray Taylor Auto Sales, Hendon and Huckestein Architects, Jet Pep, Merchants Bank, Wal-Mart Distribution, Cullman Jefferson Gas, Cook’s Pest Control and Regions Bank.

“Volunteers make Bloomin’ Festival happen,” said Nix. “Everyone working at the event is a volunteer. We pull together as a school community to make Bloomin’ Festival a success for our school and are very blessed to have a campus that can accommodate the number of visitors who come to Cullman. We have an outstanding show this year and look forward to welcoming everyone who comes.”

Festival hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, Saturday and Sunday.

2018 Ms. Senior Cullman County Donna Harris (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

HANCEVILLE - Topping off a fun, entertaining event on Saturday afternoon, Donna Harris was crowned Ms. Senior Cullman County 2018. The annual pageant took place at the Betty Leeth Haynes Theatre on the campus of Wallace State Community College in Hanceville.  The competition also featured contestants Jennifer Parker, Janis Simmons, Jolene Hammick, Joyce Weil, Helen Cary and Sandra Griggs.

Harris is a medical sonography instructor at Wallace State, performs volunteer ultrasound services for Sav-A-Life, is active in health and fitness activities, and is a member of Daystar Church. She played Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” on piano for the talent portion of the competition.  

When the contestants were asked to share their philosophies of life, Harris told the audience:

“I believe that healthy living can make a huge impact on our quality of life, regardless of life’s circumstances.  I’ve been in the medical profession for 28 years, and I’ve seen countless people suffer with their health. I’ve held the hand of the dying, and I’ve celebrated new life.  

“As a senior, what this has taught me is every day is a gift from God to be treasured and cherished, and to live every day to our fullest.  I pray that God will grant me wisdom and His love to continue to grow into the person He created me to be.”

After she claimed the title, Harris was all smiles and almost nonstop giggles for several minutes.  Catching her breath, she told The Tribune, “I am shocked! I am thrilled! I just can’t believe it. I’m so happy!  Very honored, very honored.”

Harris will represent Cullman County in the 2018 Ms. Senior Alabama State Pageant on July 28 in Irondale.

Other honors

Ms. Photogenic - Sandra Griggs

Ms. Congeniality - Jennifer Parker

2nd Alternate - Jennifer Parker

1st Alternate - Jolene Hammick

Entertainment and escorts for the ladies were provided by the “Men in Black”: Cullman County Commission on Aging Director Dusty Baker, Cullman County Sheriff’s Capt. Ricky Blackwood, Alabama gubernatorial candidate James Fields, Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry, Cullman County Commissioner Garry Marchman, Hanceville Mayor Kenneth Nail, and Cullman County Revenue Commissioner Barry Willingham.  Also performing were the “Weather Girls”--Abi Long, Josey Brown, and 2017 Ms. Senior Cullman County Marlys Ross; and the “Sugar Babies” senior dance team. Ms. Senior Universe Donna McGuffie and Miss Alabama Jessica Proctor were Mistresses of Ceremonies, and both sang.

Click here for a full photo gallery.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

More than 250 people came out to Heritage Park Saturday morning to participate in Walk MS: Cullman, most wearing signs on their backs in honor of those for whom they were walking. (Nick Griffin for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - The rain held off long enough Saturday morning for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s annual Walk MS: Cullman event, and more than 250 participants made their way around Heritage Park.

Every dollar of the proceeds from the event goes toward multiple sclerosis research, and Andrew Bell, president of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Alabama-Mississippi Chapter said he is amazed to see how many dollars Cullman has generated for the cause over the years.

“We’re expecting today to raise somewhere over $40,000 to support MS research, to support programs for people living with MS and services as well so it’s a multi-faceted approach to help people living with MS and really their entire family,” Bell said. “The event just continues to amaze us, and we’ve been so well supported by Cullman and also the surrounding communities, for that matter. We have people from Decatur here today and really all over the region to participate in Walk: MS and I think the MS community is very tight. I often times liken these events to family reunions; it’s one time a year that we know we can all come together and celebrate all that we’re accomplishing together. It’s not possible without everybody working towards a single goal which is ultimately a world without MS.”

Bell also made sure to recognize a local physician that he believes has made a massive impact, not just for people in Cullman living with MS, but those all over the country.

“The Cullman walk has been going on at least 15 years and it would not be possible without the great support of Dr. Chris LaGanke who sees patients from all over the southeastern United States living with MS. They travel from far and wide to see Dr. LaGanke and it’s his compassionate care and his bedside manner that people so appreciate,” Bell said. “When you get in front of Dr. LaGanke he gives you all the time you need to ask questions and to get the information you need to leave that appointment and live your best life with MS.”

The weather wasn’t perfect for Saturday’s walk, and that may have kept a few folks at home, but Bell said that despite that, Cullman continues to see one of the best turnouts year after year.

“Today is a rainy day so we probably would have had another 200 or so people out with us today if the weather had cooperated, but that’s one thing in event planning you can never control,” Bell said. “We expect probably 250-300 people here today, normally it’s about 500 so I would say as far as per capita in the state of the Alabama, Cullman is probably our top walk considering the size of the community and the number of people it attracts. To draw 500 people in a community this size, that’s significant.”

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Participants from the Cullman Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Recreation Program and Miracle League gathered at the Field of Miracles Thursday evening to accept a $5,250 donation from the Saints MC (Motorcycle Club). The funds will be used to pay the registration fees for all participants and for purchasing new equipment. The Saints MC will be hosting an additional fundraiser on June 16, 2018; be sure to keep up with The Cullman Tribune for more information.

CULLMAN -  It may be difficult to think about planning for your future health care when you aren't sick but preparing a comprehensive action plan will help ensure you receive the care you want if you become seriously ill - even if loved ones need to make decisions for you. Join local attorney Todd McLeroy as he discusses advance care planning, advance directives, healthcare proxy and more, along with steps to get you started.

The Advance Care Planning Seminar will be held on Thursday, April 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Colonel Cullmann Room, located in Professional Office Building 2 on the Cullman Regional Campus (1912 Alabama Highway 157).

Cost of this lunch and learn program is $5 for Healthy Life members and $8 for others. To reserve your spot, register online at www.cullmanregional.com or call 256-735-5600.

Safe Kids Expo founder Judge Kim Chaney and Brooks’ Place Director Gail Swafford (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - Cullman’s Safe Kids Expo, sponsored by Brooks’ Place child advocacy center, had to be postponed Saturday due to the threat of bad weather, but some things are too important to wait for long.  On Sunday afternoon, the awareness event went ahead despite cold, windy weather and a waterlogged Sportsman Lake Park.

Parents could get information from Brooks’ Place and Cullman Caring for Kids, while kids got up close with the Cullman Police Department helicopter and Cullman County Sheriff’s Office gear.  A few even got to saddle up on motorcycles on display from Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA; see www.cullmantribune.com/articles/2017/04/27/child-advocacy-leather-and-ch...).  The putting course was open, and inflatables were set up near the park’s train shed.  

Kids could get their faces painted; and there were free hot dogs, drinks, popcorn, and snow cones for everyone.  

Brooks’ Place Director Gail Swafford told The Tribune, “It’s the one time a year we get to give back to the community.  We want families to come out and just have a good time. We got use of the whole park from Cullman County Parks and Recreation: all the rides, putt-putt, everything is free to the family.  In addition to that, though, we want to give out information about how to keep kids safe.”

Brooks’ Place is a nonprofit organization that offers advocacy services to children who are the victims of physical or sexual abuse.  It offers forensic interviews, counseling, medical exams and support for families headed to court.

The Safe Kids Expo was the brainchild of District Judge Kim Chaney about 20 years ago.  According to Swafford, “He wanted to have something for families to come out and just get information, and so he kind of started it.  And then we kind of picked it up after that. He’s still very involved.”

While making the rounds at the park, Chaney shared, “There’s a lot of volunteers that are here, and a lot of agencies here that work to support the interests of children.  And Cullman County’s a special place, because they care about their kids; this is a priority. And for people to be out here on sort of a coolish Sunday to support kids and programs, I think it speaks well of our community. I’m just glad to see it. Children are our most important natural resource.”

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - Below are the arrests reported for April 13-15. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

Ballenger Christopher Matthew 36

• FTA- unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Buckelew, Michael Andrew, 30

• FTA- third-degree domestic violence- harassment

Canada, Phillip Author, 42

• FTA- illegal possession of prescription medicine
• FTA- driving while revoked
• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia (3 counts)
• FTA- unlawful possession of a controlled substance (4 counts)
• FTA- driving without a license

Delsman, Roger Christopher, 31

• probation violation- second-degree attempted theft
• probation violation- third-degree criminal mischief
• FTA- driving while suspended

Denney, Jeffery Allen, 29

• third-degree domestic violence- third-degree assault

Downs, Hershel Wayne, 58

• probation revoked- first-degree theft of property

Freeman, Dalton Mitchell, 22

• possession of drug paraphernalia

Johnson, Mark Anthony, 31

• negotiating a worthless negotiable instrument

Jones, Randall Roy, 56

• GJ- third-degree theft of property

Kelley, Diana L., 57

• third-degree domestic violence- harassment

Raley, Darrell Scott, 49

• negotiating a worthless negotiable instrument (3 counts)

Robinson, Bryan Allen, 39

• writ of arrest- child support

Shelton, Savannah Rachelle, 24

• FTA- chemical endangerment of a child
• FTA- proof of liability insurance required

Sosa, Recardo Antonio, 52

• FTA- DUI- influence of alcohol

Swann, Austin Aubrey, 22

• third-degree domestic violence- harassment

Thomas, Marissa Ann, 27

• public intoxication

Watson, Ethan Chase, 19

• public intoxication

Williams, Emma Renee, 44

• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia
• FTA- unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Cullman Police Department

Wynn, Gregory P., 42

• FTA- fourth-degree theft of property

Saldana-Vela, Jose A., 44

• DUI

Smith, Britney H., 29

• FTA- third-degree theft of property

Hallmark, Christopher D., 24

• FTA- expired tag

Buckelew, Michael A., 30

• attempting to elude
• reckless endangerment
• second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana
• speeding
• reckless driving
• failure to register vehicle
• running a stop sign
• failure to signal
• driving on wrong side of road
• passing in no passing zone
• insurance violation

Bryant, Marlon F., 44

• public intoxication

Cox, Tina L., 36

• DUI

Allaire, Richard L. Jr., 58

• unlawful possession or receipt of a controlled substance

Hughes, Melissa D., 36

• FTA- solicitation

Loredana, ILIE, 24

• third-degree theft of property

Shelton, Savannah R., 24

• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia

Canada, Phillip A., 42

• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia
• FTA- driving without a license
• FTA- switched tag
• FTA- no tag
• FTA- insurance violation

Chaviers, Daren R., 41

• DUI
• attempting to elude
• resisting arrest

Gibson, Erica, 31

• unlawful possession or receipt of a controlled substance
• possession of drug paraphernalia

Hanceville Police Department

No arrests reported.

Find arrest reports online Monday-Friday at www.CullmanTribune.com.

Susan Smith, the grandmother of murder suspect Andrew Maresh, was arrested for hindering prosecution in the case. Authorities say she knew the victim was buried on her property in Fairview. (Cullman County Sheriff’s Office)

CULLMAN - The grandmother of one of the men accused of the murder of Hartselle man Daniel Ray Osborn II, 22, was arrested recently and charged with first-degree hindering prosecution, according to court documents.

Osborn’s body was found buried on the property of Susan Winton Smith, 65, of Fairview on March 26. Tyler Stephen Hudson, 20, of Baileyton and Andrew Jacob Maresh, 19, of Hartselle were arrested and charged with murder that same night. Authorities recovered the body of Osborn, who had last been seen by his family on Feb. 3, 2018, from Smith’s property on County Road 1534 in the Fairview community. Court documents revealed that Osborn died of a gunshot wound to the back of his head.

Smith, who is the grandmother of Maresh, “did conceal the body of Daniel Ray Osborn II,” according to the District Court complaint on file.

The complaint states: “On or about February 3, 2018, Susan Winton Smith was advised by her grandson, Andrew Maresh, and Tyler Hudson that they had killed Daniel Ray Osborn and buried him in her yard on CR 1534.  Since then, Susan Smith never advised anyone, to include the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office and/or the Hartselle Police Department of the murder/buried body of Mr. Osborn. On March 29, 2018, Susan Smith was arrested for Hindering Prosecution 1st Degree and booked in the Cullman County Detention Center.”

Smith was assigned a $10,000 property bond and was released after bond was posted.

Maresh was assigned a bond of $25,000 cash, which has not yet been paid.  He remains in the Cullman County Detention Center. The bail request placed before Judge Kim Chaney stated that:

• “The offender is out on bond on an unrelated drug offense.”  According to other court documents, the offense included possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance (Alprazolam), and additionally included possession of multiple counterfeit bills.
• “The offender admitted to being involved in a murder on February 3, 2018.”
• “The listed offender has made threats toward the co-defendant as well as witnesses to this case.”

Hudson was assigned a bond of $15,000 cash, also unpaid, and remains in the Cullman County Detention Center.  The bail request placed before Judge Kim Chaney stated that:

• “The listed offender stated that he is in fear of his own life and that he would commit suicide due to the fact that he couldn’t live with what he had done.”
• “The offender admitted to being involved in a murder on February 3, 2018.”

Authorities from the Cullman County Sheriff's Office, Hartselle Police Department and Cullman County Coroner's Office worked together to recover Osborn’s body in Fairview.

On March 27, the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement, “(On) Monday, March 26, 2018, Cullman County Sheriff’s (Office) ‘CCSO’ investigators and Hartselle Police Department investigators responded to an address in the Fairview community, Cullman County. This response was from several weeks of a relentless investigation of a missing person’s case that was initiated in the Hartselle community.  Sadly, in the course of the investigation, the victim’s body was discovered buried at the residence.”

The statement said that after the discovery of the victim’s body, investigators, working in conjunction with the Cullman County District Attorney’s Office, continued the investigation throughout the night.

“I would like to commend the hard work and dedication from the Hartselle Investigators and the Investigators from the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office in working this case together. Our prayers go out to the victim’s family during this time of tragedy and loss,” said Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry.

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Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Rex Sorrow enjoys a laugh with a participant in 2017’s Cullman Area Special Needs Track and Field Day. This year’s event will take place this Friday, April 20, 2018. (Tribune file photo)

CULLMAN - This Friday morning the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), Cullman Police Department, and other local agencies will put on the annual Cullman Area Torch Run leading from the Cullman County Courthouse to Cullman High School’s Oliver Woodard Stadium for the Cullman Area Special Needs Track and Field Day.  CCSO Lt. Rex Sorrow is coordinating the Torch Run, and Cullman County Child Development Center Adaptive Physical Education teacher Bridget Keef is handling the track and field events at the stadium.

According to Sorrow, participants in the run should plan to meet on the front steps of the courthouse around 8:30 Friday morning, where they will await word from the stadium about the arrival of the athletes.  Then sheriff’s office, police and other agency representatives will light the torch and carry it from the courthouse to the stadium, where special needs athletes will help carry it around the track to open the games.

“The Torch Run is just to bring awareness to the track and field games,” said Sorrow, “and just kind of open it up.”

At the stadium, special needs athletes will take part in multiple track and field games, including some typical events and some that will be specially geared toward the athletes’ abilities and needs. Gene Hicks, a REHAU supervisor and part-time DJ, has volunteered to provide both a sound system and music for the event, and Jimmy Dale Burgess of WFMH Radio will call the events as announcer.

Sorrow described Hicks as “a fantastic guy, volunteers his time and his equipment to come out and help us.  I mean, it just adds so much, makes it such a great atmosphere to have that music there.” And of Burgess, Sorrow said, “Jimmy Dale works with a lot of these special needs students, calling ball games and things like that over at the Field of Miracles, so he does a really good job with that.  He knows a lot of these kids by name.”

Through earlier fundraising efforts, the sheriff’s office will provide free event shirts for torch runners and athletes, medals for the participants and food.  Sheriff Matt Gentry and his deputies will be cooking and serving free hamburgers and hot dogs for the participants, volunteers and spectators.

“It doesn’t matter who you are,” said Sorrow.  “If you want to just come and stop in, and see what’s going on, and have a hamburger or a hot dog, we’d love to have anybody!

“The sheriff loves working with special needs students.  He loves our community first of all, and then he loves our special needs community just that much more.  And he puts his heart and his soul, and his money, into trying to make this a good thing, just like our rodeo.

“We always have a lot of great participation from everybody.  I mean there’s people from all over Cullman County that come out and participates . . . Bridget Keef, I think she does a fantastic job on her end, as far as working to get this all put together.”

Planners are preparing for up to 170 athletes to take part, with 30 to 40 volunteers helping out.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The Garden City Town Council meets on the third Monday of each month. (Nick Griffin for The Tribune)

GARDEN CITY - The Garden City Town Council issued citations to a pair of local businesses Monday night after a vote that determined both are in violation of multiple town ordinances. Deb’s Tires and Roger's Tire were each found to be in violation of several ordinances including weed accumulation, garbage disposal and violating no parking zones. Maintaining a nuisance was also listed as one of the violations as several council members said the businesses have been aware of the violations for two years. According to the council, Roger's Tire has been operating out of the same location as Deb's Tires with no business license.

Next on the agenda, the council approved a plan that would increase funding for the Garden City Volunteer Fire Department. A pay-per-call system will be put in place in October at the start of the next fiscal year and will help generate more revenue for the fire department. The plan will pay $10 per fire call, $2 per medical call and $10 per training event. No official ordinance was passed at Monday night’s meeting, but Mayor Tim Eskew said the move is an important part of the upcoming budget to reimburse the fire department for the work they do in the community.

The council discussed options for buying a new tractor for cutting the grass on public property in the community but tabled the topic for further discussion. Most of the council agreed that the issue should be worked into next year’s budget rather than making the purchase for this summer.

Toward the end of the meeting, the council discussed an idea for building a batting cage at Garden City River Park. Specifically, the town is looking at a four lane, fully furnished cage with three lanes set up for baseball and one for softball. No official decision was made, but the council agreed to look into what grants might be available for the project.

The Garden City Town Council meets on the third Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Garden City Town Hall. The public is welcome to attend.

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The “Making Alabama: A Bicentennial Traveling Exhibit” will be at Wallace State Community College’s Evelyn Burrow Museum through May 24. A special grand opening and ribbon cutting will be held on Thursday, April 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.The ball gown worn by former Alabama first lady Jamelle Folsom is on loan from the Alabama Department of Archives and History during the exhibit.

HANCEVILLE - Wallace State Community College and The Evelyn Burrow Museum welcomes the Making Alabama: A Bicentennial Traveling Exhibit on campus starting this week and continuing through May 24.

Presented by the Alabama Humanities Foundation in partnership with the Alabama Bicentennial Commission, Alabama Department of Archives and History, and the Cullman County Museum, the centerpiece is the interactive exhibit that tells of the state’s history from the 1700s through present day. In conjunction with the traveling exhibit, there are displays specific to Cullman County’s history collected by the Cullman County Museum from numerous sources throughout the county.

“We are honored to be among the first counties in the state to be chosen to premiere the bicentennial exhibit,” said Kristen Holmes, administrator of the Burrrow Museum. “As we are celebrating the state’s 200th anniversary, we’re also celebrating the uniqueness of Cullman County through the artifacts and pieces brought in by the Cullman County Museum and area groups and organizations.”

The museum is honored to display the gown worn by former Alabama first lady Jamelle Folsom, which is on loan from the Alabama Department of Archives and History.

Accompanying the exhibition is another showcasing the artwork of beloved Cullman artist, the late Dot Graff. A number of her pen and ink sketches and watercolors are on loan from her daughter, Kitty Warren, to The Evelyn Burrow Museum during the Alabama 200: A Bicentennial Traveling Exhibit.

An official grand opening reception will be held on Thursday, April 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Burrow Center for the Fine and Performing Arts. A discussion led by Maurice Gandy will be held at 11 a.m. in the Burrow Center Recital Hall. Gandy will present “Famous Lost Words: Recording and Preserving Oral History,” an interactive session filled with stories and anecdotes and information about preserving oral history.

Gandy’s presentation will be followed up by ribbon cutting and reception, with refreshments, entertainment and tours of the exhibit.

The college will also host a Bicentennial Art Competition for local students in grades K-12 and for Wallace State students as well. The winner in each level will receive a $100 cash scholarship award; second and third place will receive ribbons. The deadline to enter the competition is April 24. An artists’ reception and award ceremony will be held May 14.