CULLMAN - There’s only one place where you can hear updates about the area’s education, healthcare, government and more all in one day — and that’s at the Chamber’s “Chick-fil-A State of Our Communities.”

The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce’s Governmental Affairs Committee invites the public to attend this year’s all- day event on Friday at the Cullman Civic Center.

Doors will open at 7:30 a.m. Major session topics include the State of Education, State of Healthcare, State of Local Government and a Legislative Forum. Representatives from agencies and organizations related to human services, utilities, tourism and recreation, and the Chamber will be set up in breakout rooms and provide information/demonstrations to visitors until the event concludes at 3 p.m.

Many of these breakout participants are bringing impressive giveaway packages, including a couple of TVs, a one-night stay for two at La Quinta Inns & Suites, a $50 gift card, gift baskets, four free passes to the Ave Maria Grotto and much, much more. Cullman Regional and the Good Samaritan Health Clinic will be offering health screenings, and First Source for Women will be providing services from its mobile medical unit out front. To top it off, free hot dogs, chips and drinks will be given to the first 100 seniors (65+) to secure a ticket. Tickets will be available starting at 9:15 a.m., and lunch will be served at 11 a.m.

One breakout room will also be reserved for the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) Trade Show. This event will allow YEA! students from Cullman High School and Holly Pond High School to showcase the products and services they’ve been working hard on this academic year.

The “Chick-fil-A State of Our Communities” is completely free to the public. However, attendees do have the opportunity to purchase an All-Access Pass for $50, which includes priority seating, breakfast, lunch, hospitality room access and a swag bag. Breakfast ($15) and lunch ($20) can also be purchased separately.

See below for an overview of each major session:

State of Education

Time: 8 a.m.

Premier Sponsor: Wallace State Community College

Corporate Sponsors: Cullman-Jefferson Gas | Cullman Electric Cooperative

During this session, we’ll hear from Cullman City Schools Superintendent Susan Patterson, Cullman County Schools Superintendent Shane Barnette and Wallace State Community College’s Kristen Holmes. The Student of the Year and Career Technical Student of the Year will also be announced. The Teacher of the Year for the city and county school systems will be recognized as well.

State of Healthcare

Time: 10 a.m.

Premier Sponsor: Katherine Morgan - State Farm Insurance & Financial Services

Corporate Sponsors: Cullman Electric Cooperative | Bradford Health Services

This panel discussion will feature WellStone Behavioral Health COO Chris Van Dyke, Cullman Regional Chief Nursing Officer Charna Brown and Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry, and touch on relevant local healthcare topics, such as the opioid epidemic.

State of Local Government

Time: 11:30 a.m.

Premier Sponsor: American Proteins, Inc.

Corporate Sponsors: Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc. | Jackson & Williams Attorneys At Law During this session, Cullman County Commission Chairman Kenneth Walker and Mayors Woody Jacobs (Cullman), Kenneth Nail (Hanceville) and Jerry Bartlett (Good Hope) will provide general updates from their respective areas.

Legislative Forum

Time: 1:30 p.m.

Premier Sponsor: James R. Smith Trucking

Corporate Sponsor: Cullman-Jefferson Gas | YELTEK

This Q&A-style forum will feature local nominees for the AL Senate District 4 seat, Paul Bussman and Garlan Gudger; the AL House District 12 seat, Corey Harbison and Alex Chaney; and the AL House District 9 seat, James R. Bowling, Justin Morrow and Scott Stadthagen.

For more information or to purchase an All-Access Pass, contact the Chamber at 256-734-0454 or info@cullmanchamber.org.

State of Our Communities Flier by cullmansense on Scribd

Giveaways by cullmansense on Scribd

L-R: Publix District Manager Vincent Mingione, Assistant Store Manager Brad Boshell, United Way of Cullman County Board Chairman Steve Moore, United Way of Cullman County Past Chairwoman Deborah Hoover

CULLMAN - On Monday afternoon, Publix Super Market managers presented the United Way of Cullman County (UWCC) with a check for $24,100 from Publix Super Market Charities, completing the organization’s donation pledge from this year’s drive.  Publix associates and Publix Super Market Charities exceeded last year’s campaign for a total donation of $57,146 this year. (See www.cullmantribune.com/articles/2018/02/26/united-way-cullman-county-cel....)

Contributions from the 2017-18 campaign will benefit UWCC’s 16 local agency partners.  This is the second United Way Campaign since Publix opened its doors in October of 2015.   

In a press release, UWCC Director Sammie Danford wrote, “Publix and its employees have made an outstanding commitment to support United Way and Cullman County.  We could not continue to meet the needs of our community without their generosity. We are honored and grateful to the employees who give back to the communities they serve.”

This particular donation was generated entirely by Publix employees with support from Publix Super Market Charities.  On Tuesday, UWCC Assistant Director Becky Goff explained to The Tribune, “It is part of their commitment that they have.  All Publix stores run an internal campaign and then, once the employee campaign is finished, then they usually present the check to the local United Way.”

According to UWCC's press release, “Publix is consistently one of the top donors to United Way of Cullman County. This past February, United Way board, staff and volunteers personally thanked Publix associates during Publix Appreciate Day in recognition of their contributions.  Located in only six states, Publix is ranked the third largest United Way donor in the WORLD! Their continued support of our communities shows the ‘Strength in Giving.’”

Goff told The Tribune, “We are just proud of our relationship with Publix here in Cullman, and the local support that each store gives is very important to our community.  And we are excited to recognize not only the Publix associates, but Publix Charities for their continued support of the United Way of Cullman County.”

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CULLMAN - Below are the arrests reported for April 23. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

Corrigan, Carl, 30

no tag/tag not plainly visible
possession of drug paraphernalia

Franklin, Renee Carden, 34

contributing to truancy

Graveman, Stephanie Elaine, 23

FTA- unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Lambert, Michael Lee, 36

harassing communications

Morris, Matthew Cambron, 32

FTA- second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana

Cullman Police Department

No arrests.

Hanceville Police Department

No arrests reported.

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

HOMEWOOD - Savanah Allred, of Hanceville, recently received an academic honor award based on her class standing. Allred, a music and worship major, won a Tower Medal.

Each medal represents an important aspect of Samford University. The Wheelar Medal, awarded to freshmen, is named after Ruric Wheeler, a longtime university academic administrator. The Seal Medal, awarded to sophomores, is named for the seal of Samford University. The Tower Medal, awarded to juniors, is named for the iconic bell tower of Samford University. The Howard Medal, awarded to seniors, represents the university's original namesake, an 18th-century British prison reformer.

ABOUT SAMFORD UNIVERSITY - Samford University is a premier nationally ranked Christian university. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th oldest institution of higher education in the United States.  U.S. News & World Report ranks Samford 3rd among regional universities in the South, and Samford is recognized as the top-ranked university in the state of Alabama in national rankings published by Forbes Inc, The Economist and The Wall Street Journal. Samford enrolls 5,509 students from 45 states and 30 countries in its 10 academic units: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy, and public health. Samford also fields 17 NCAA Division I teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference. www.samford.edu

Photo courtesy of Samford University.

The Cullman County Bosom Buddies Foundation thanks everyone who helped to make the April 7, 2018 Colors of Cancer Day great!

The day started with runners braving the cold, wet weather to run the Colors of Cancer 5K Run. We thank you all and we thank Mark Aderholt and Frank Whitman for managing the run and the timing.

The Bikers Against Cancer fifth annual ride has been re-scheduled. The weather was against the ride April 7. The new date is June 23, 2018. We look forward to more bikers riding on this date.

The ride will begin from the Professional Office Building II back parking lot of Cullman Regional. The cost is $25 per rider and $10 for passenger. Registration and breakfast will be 7:30-8:45 a.m. The riders meeting will be at 9 and kickstands up at 9:30. The length of the ride is 110 miles. For more details please contact Mary Dyer at 256-339-0911 or Louise Cole at lcole7857@gmail.com.

We also thank each one that came out and stood in the cold north wind to support our Swamp John’s meal; the meal was delicious. Thanks to each of you our day was a success.

We would like to thank each one of our sponsors for the Colors of Cancer Day:
 

Corporate Sponsors

• BILL SMITH BUICK, GMC                 
• CLEARVIEW CANCER INSTITUTE
• CULLMAN ELECTRIC COOP                       
• CULLMAN POWER BOARD

 
Silver Sponsors

• Spring Hill Baptist Church                       
• Riley Business Products
• Lisa McSwin, Circuit Clerk        
• Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Smith         
• Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Smith, Jr.

 
Bronze Sponsors

• Merchants Bank
• Sheriff Matt Gentry                                      
• Signature Smiles
• Dunn Right Taxes and Bookkeeping, LLC     
• Freedom Insurance Agency
• Cullman FOP #40

 
Love Sponsor

• Creditcentral Loans and Taxes                                  
• Quick Tire Sales
• Peoples Bank      
• Kelly Auto Sales                                             
• Jenny Folsom
• American Protein, Inc                                   
• Mr. & Mrs. Richard Meehan
• Robert and Robin Marty
• Memory of Judy Brown

Image credit: pixabay

At its meeting Tuesday evening, the Colony Town Council heard about plans for its second Summer Enrichment Program and took the next step toward securing a community storm shelter. (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

COLONY - At its meeting Tuesday evening, the Colony Town Council heard about plans for its second Summer Enrichment Program and took the next step toward securing a community storm shelter.

Summer Enrichment Program

Councilwoman Ethel Alexander presented plans for the program, which was first instituted in 2017.  It will run weekdays from June 4 to July 27, at the town educational complex/library, and will offer two programs: Project Extend and Morning Recreation, beginning at 8:45 a.m. each day.  Bus transportation will be available in some cases.

Colony will again participate in the free summer feeding program it used successfully last year, with food for breakfast and lunch provided by the North Alabama Food Bank under a federal grant.

The first week’s program will be a garden camp for 5-12-year-olds sponsored by the North Alabama Agriplex.  Kids will get hands-on in the community center garden and will do make-and-take projects each day.

Registration packets became available this week, with registration and medical forms, and information on programming, schedules, rules and dress code.  They can be picked up at Colony Town Hall or the library.

Storm shelter

The council voted to accept a sub-grantee agreement for the state’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program which will help fund the construction of a community storm shelter for the town.  Under the grant’s matching terms, Colony will have to provide $27,000 of the proposed $108,000 cost of the shelter.

Other business

The council reviewed three applications for a summer assistant for the town’s maintenance worker, but without taking any action.

Brenda Johnson’s assignment classification was changed from administrative assistant to library aide, and her work hours at the library were set at noon to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays.

Mayor Donnis Leeth told the council that he and Councilman Curtis Johnson will be meeting with representatives of the Alabama Department of Transportation to talk about possible state-funded repairs to four local roads: Byars Road, Johnson Circle, Colony Road and Wooley Road.

The Colony Town Council meets at Colony Town Hall on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 6 p.m. with work sessions at 5:30. The public is invited to attend.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - Below are the arrests reported for April 24. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

Adkins, Jamie Rae, 33

• FTA- negotiating a worthless negotiable instrument

Martel, James Edward, 40

• FTA- negotiating a worthless negotiable instrument (3 counts)
• negotiating a worthless negotiable instrument
• FTA- theft of gasoline

Millwood, Barion Mitchell Ray, 32

• third-degree assault

Parker, Brianna Dawn, 27

• possession of drug paraphernalia
• illegal possession of prescription medicine

Ramey, James Jacob, 28

• illegal possession of alcohol

Simmons, Christian Jacob, 31

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

Smith, Timothy Maynard, 31

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

Cullman Police Department

Yarbrough, Bobby G., 56

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

Stewart, Mary E., 32

• fourth-degree theft of property
• unlawful possession or receipt of a controlled substance
• possession of drug paraphernalia

Williams, Joseph D., 47

• public intoxication
• second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana
• possession of drug paraphernalia

Hanceville Police Department

No arrests reported.

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

Cullman Regional Therapy Services OT Team: Pictured (L-R): Karen Lowe, COTA/L; Leeann Plank, OTR/L, CHT; Erin Burke, OTR/L

CULLMAN - Cullman Regional is celebrating Occupational Therapy Month by recognizing the occupational therapists (OTs) and certified occupational therapy assistants (COTAs) who enable people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health, and prevent—or live better with—injury, illness or disability.

These services are available through Cullman Regional Rehab & Therapy Services (formerly ONE Rehab) as well as through Cullman Regional Home Care. Cullman Regional Home Care focuses primarily on individualized therapy for patients in their home who have an injury, illness, disability or specific diagnosis which includes the hand, wrist, elbow or shoulder. However, Cullman Regional Rehab & Therapy also provides these services on both and inpatient and outpatient bases as well as other specialized therapy programs, evaluations for work-related injuries, pre-employment physical evaluations and much more.

Occupational Therapy helps patients regain their independence through daily living skill building which can include cooking, self-grooming, writing, job-specific skills and much more. Cullman Regional Therapy Services is the ONLY provider in North Central Alabama that offers Hand Therapy under the direction of a Certified Hand Therapist.

What is hand therapy?

Hand therapy is the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper limb, which includes the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder girdle. It is a merging of occupational and physical therapy which restores function and/or reverses the progression in the upper limb in order to enhance a patient’s ability to perform tasks and to participate fully in life.

Why is a Certified Hand Therapist important?

Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is an occupational therapist or physical therapist who has a minimum of three years of clinical experience, including 4,000 hours or more in direct practice in hand therapy. In addition, the Certified Hand Therapist has successfully passed a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper quarter rehabilitation. Because of changes in the profession, every CHT is required to demonstrate continued professional development and competency by recertifying every five years.

For more information on services provided by Cullman Regional Therapy Services or Cullman Regional Home Care, visit online at www.cullmanregional.com.

Colby Hutson

CULLMAN - Cullman High School senior Colby Hutson has been named one of 630 semifinalists in the 2018 US Presidential Scholars Program. The semifinalists were selected from nearly 5,300 candidates expected to graduate from US high schools in the year 2018.

Inclusion in the US Presidential Scholars Program, now in its 54th year, is on the of the highest honors bestowed upon graduating high school seniors. Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

The US Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, up to 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students. All scholars are invited to Washington, D.C. in June for the National Recognition Program, featuring various events and enrichment activities and culminating in the presentation of the Presidential Scholar Medallion during a White House-sponsored ceremony.

A distinguished panel of educators have reviewed these submissions and selected 630 semifinalists. The Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the US Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

On Wednesday evening, Sen. Paul Bussman, R-Cullman, who served on one of the committees that worked on the bill, made a surprise visit to Daystar Church’s Good Hope campus to present Curtis Wilson’s mother Ashley Wilson a copy of the “Curtis Wilson-Stephanie Harmon Interlock Act.” (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - A new Alabama law (SB1), passed during the 2018 legislative session, increases penalties for people charged with driving under the influence (DUI), requiring the installation of ignition interlock devices in their vehicles, and will carry the name of Cullman DUI crash victim Curtis Wilson. Under a legislative resolution (Alabama Senate Joint Resolution 142), Act No. 2018-554 will be entitled the “Curtis Wilson-Stephanie Harmon Interlock Act.”

Wilson, a student at Cullman High School, was killed when the vehicle in which he was a passenger was struck by a drunk driver on County Road 222 in May 2017 (See www.cullmantribune.com/articles/2017/05/08/community-mourns-chs-student-... and www.cullmantribune.com/articles/2017/10/10/brad-meeks-indicted-reckless-...).  Harmon, from Montgomery, was killed by a drunk driver in Georgiana in 2005.

The ignition interlock devices link a breathalyzer to a car’s ignition system and require a negative result before the car can be cranked.  Some states that require such systems have seen reductions in DUI arrests and DUI-related deaths of 20 percent or higher in the first year of implementation.

According to the wording of the original bill, it would “require each person approved for a pretrial diversion program to be required to have an ignition interlock device installed for a certain period of time; . . . (and) provide that a person convicted of a third offense would be authorized or required to obtain an ignition interlock device after the completion of his or her incarceration.”

This story will be updated.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Trevor Clemmons models a suit at Wednesday’s Pilot Club of Cullman Fashion Show and Luncheon. Clemmons was one of several area law enforcement officers who participated in the show for the nonprofit. (Nick Griffin for The Tribune)

CULLMAN - The 26th annual Pilot Club of Cullman Fashion Show and Luncheon packed out the Cullman Civic Center Wednesday with more than 430 guests coming to enjoy lunch, show and local vendors. The yearly show also celebrates Administrative Professionals’ Day.

“Material Girl” was this year’s theme, and wares from 11 different local shops were modeled, some by local law enforcement. The shops included Jennifer’s Treasures, Better than Before, Belk, Dixie Duds and Décor, Options, Tre Bellezze, MoMo She 103, Sweetheart Tree, Younique Sophistication, Be Blessed Boutique and Mr. Hick’s Menswear. Pilot Club member and local State Farm agent Katherine Morgan served as this year’s master of ceremonies.

The fashion show is one of several fundraisers that benefit Pilot Club projects. The organization supports the local Pilot Light House, an emergency harbor for abused children, helps support the Field of Miracles and gives to 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.

Co-chair of this year’s event, and Pilot Club member, Peggy Harris gave a quick breakdown of what the Pilot Club does and who they are able to help with the funds from the show.

“This is the 26th annual fashion show that the Pilot Club in Cullman does as a fundraiser. We raise the funds and work really hard to raise money, so we can turn around and give it back to the community. Our first and foremost project is supporting the Pilot Light House and then we brought in Project Lifesaver about 10 years ago and we support that pretty well. Our agencies and our charities that have to do with the developmentally disabled, physically or mentally, we support those and their activities as well. I guess this is the longest-running fundraiser that we have, and everybody just always looks forward to it.”

Wednesday’s event might have been one of the most anticipated shows that the Pilot Club has put on. According to Harris, this fashion show may have sold out faster than any that has come before it.

“We have local merchants that agree to have their clothes modeled and other local merchants or vendors selling their things. Right now, I think we have 49 or 50 Pilots here, so it takes a lot of people to do this, not just today but leading up to today, too. We probably ran out of tickets earlier than we ever have. I think our count on meals was 484, about 60 or so are working so about 432 is where we are with the seating.”

Learn more about the Pilot Club of Cullman at www.facebook.com/cullmanpilotclub.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

HOMEWOOD - Samford University recently held elections for 2018-19 Student Government Association officers.

Drew Fillinger, of Cullman, was elected sophomore class vice president. Fillinger is a musical theater (BFA) major.

The SGA represents and promotes student interest in the decision-making process of Samford University by cultivating and maintaining leadership among students. The SGA also develops, coordinates and executes activities and services for the benefit of students.

ABOUT SAMFORD UNIVERSITY - Samford University is a premier nationally ranked private university deeply rooted in its Christian mission. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th oldest institution of higher education in the United States. U.S. News and World Report ranks Samford 3rd among regional universities in the South. Samford enrolls 5,509 students from 45 states, the District of Columbia and 29 other countries in its 10 academic units: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford also fields 17 NCAA Division I teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference.

Photo courtesy of Samford University

CULLMAN - Donna Ruttkay, from the Cullman County Animal Shelter, introduces us to The Cullman Tribune’s Pet of the Week:

“Tamar is a hound/beagle mix who is approximately 1 year old.  She’s a laid-back low- to medium-energy pet who would make a great companion or comfort dog.  She’s learning how to walk on a leash and she seems most comfortable close by people.”

Tamar’s adoption fee is $90 including: DHLPP vaccine, Bordetella vaccines, rabies vaccine, wormer, general exam at the vet, spay, microchip, free 45-day health insurance policy issued by 24PetWatch (with valid email only) and a free bag of food from Cullman Pet Depot (you must pay sales tax).

Animal shelter staff and volunteers work with their dogs to make sure they are accustomed to being around people, walking on a leash and practicing good behavior.  Several of the shelter’s dogs have even been “hired” recently to work as special needs service dogs.

Please consider adopting to give a rescued pet a chance at a happy and healthy life.

Contact the Cullman County Animal Shelter at 256-734-5448, or visit them at 935 Convent Road NE.  Reach them by email at cullmancountyanimalshelter@gmail.com.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

stock image

HOLLY POND - The Wallace State student who was involved in a plane crash early Wednesday evening near Holly Pond has been released from the hospital. According to the college, the student, who has not been identified, was taken to Cullman Regional as a precaution following the incident.

"The student went down while on a solo training flight early yesterday evening," said Wallace State's Kristen Holmes. "All indications are that the student achieved the best outcome under the circumstances, landing the plane in an open field with little or no injury. That is what students are trained to do, and it would seem the student did an amazing job landing the plane in an emergency situation. He was taken to CRMC as a precautionary measure and we understand that he was released the same evening."

The single-engine plane is not owned by the college. Holmes said the planes used by students are leased by Wallace State, then rented by students.

"The reason for the plane going down is undetermined, but the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) has been on the scene investigating last night and this morning," Holmes stated.

Copyright  2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

CULLMAN - The Cullman area has access to some highly regarded drug rehabilitation services through organizations like The Foundry Ministries and recovery programs like Restoring Women Outreach (RWO) that help get people ready to transition back into regular life.

RWO is, as the name implies, a program for women, and there has not been a comparable service for men, something that bridges the gap between intensive residential programs like the Foundry and life in the outside world.  That can be a problem for men recovering from addiction. The longer a person can be separated from the context of his or her addiction, the better the chances of full recovery. With men coming out of programs in a year, and some coming out of jail after a matter of months, that distance in time is just not enough for some.

Now, a group of concerned citizens, including some high-profile community leaders, has come together to form Cullman Re-Entry Addiction Assistance (CREAA), a faith-based long-term service for men coming out of rehab programs or jail that gives them a place to live, the support of counselors and peers in similar situations, and assistance in doing the things they need to do to transition back to “the real world.”

CREAA was incorporated in the spring of 2017 by counselor Albert Pugh, Dr. Bill Peinhardt and Jo Kreps.  

According to a statement from Kreps: “The mission of CREAA is to bring healing and restoration to individuals and families touched by addiction and addiction-related mental illness.  Our goal is to provide services to improve the physical, mental and spiritual health of those re-entering the community from incarceration, rehabilitation or homelessness due to addiction.  Our commitment is to provide appropriate services to support these individuals as they return to a normal life. This transition back into our community is only possible through integration with other community services.”

In a conversation with The Tribune, Kreps said, “We take people that have come out of rehab, that really have no place to go, unless it’s back to their friends who are doing this.  But we’re still trying to direct them in a different direction.”

She explained that, when men come out of jail or a rehab program, they may have little money or other resources, and family and friends are often wary of tying up their own resources in someone who might relapse.  CREAA will help men get back to work and back to something approaching normal daily life, while giving them the opportunity to stay away from the settings in which they got in trouble, and in which they would be dangerously likely to return to trouble.

The organization’s board of directors includes the three founders with Pugh as president, plus Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry, Assistant Cullman Police Chief Craig Montgomery, Rev. James Fields, Karen Willingham Gable and Maria Steele.  Pugh and Fields have both worked with recovery programs in other places, and Gentry works with various programs offering services to inmates at the Cullman County Detention Center.

For Kreps and Steele, the project is a little more personal. Steele lost her son Bryan, and Kreps lost her son Clay, to drug overdoses.  

Kreps, whose son became addicted to pain medication after surgery and relapsed after rehab, wrote in an email: “Our hearts were broken, our lives were drastically changed, and we do not want this to happen to any other family.  A place for them to continue their rehabilitation/transition back into the community once out of rehab was (and still) is desperately needed.”

Montgomery told The Tribune, “We have rented a house here in town (The specific location is currently confidential).  And the name of the house is the Bryan Clay House; so we took the first names of both sons . . . and the idea is to have a home setting where they can have a place to bed down, to eat their meals.  If they don’t have transportation, we have acquired a van for the organization.

“We have a gentleman, Nathan Gable (who serves as CREAA’s program manager), who actually lives in the residence, kind of oversees the residence to make sure that whoever lives there is complying with the rules and regulations of the facility.  He also uses the van to help these gentlemen get to places of work: get there, get them home; if they need to run errands to the grocery store, if they need to go to the courthouse to get their license, Nathan is the one that helps them get around.”

Residents will have to pay a small amount to stay at the house, but will be sheltered and fed, and will receive assistance in finding and getting to jobs. They can also be transported to take care of some of the administrative and logistical needs of life. The faith-based group encourages men to attend church and will help them find a local congregation and even provide transportation to some services.  

The Bryan Clay House opened its doors on April 1, 2018.  As of mid-April, the 10-bed facility had three residents.

CREAA and the Bryan Clay House are still works in progress.  In coming weeks, The Tribune will follow up with more information, including ways that members of the Cullman community can get involved in supporting this ministry.  

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Image credit: Pixabay

CULLMAN - Below are the arrests reported for April 25. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.

GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear

Cullman County Sheriff’s Office

Alvarado, Jose Garcia, 36

• second-degree criminal mischief

Bailey, Ashley Carol, 32

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

Carr, Steven Wayne, 32

• possession of drug paraphernalia

Curvin, Meshach John, 22

• FTA- first-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument
• FTA- possession of drug paraphernalia
• possession of drug paraphernalia (2 counts)
• unlawful possession of a controlled substance

Drake, Devron Lashay, 20

• possession of drug paraphernalia
• possession of a controlled substance

Duke, William Thomas, 32

• carrying a pistol without a license
• illegal possession of alcohol

Fuller, Dimitri Devonn, 28

• public intoxication

Goodman, Eric David, 48

• possession of drug paraphernalia
• second-degree unlawful possession of marijuana

Morris, Bobby David, 44

• FTA- first-degree theft of property

Rouse, Ricky Gene, 40

• FTA- menacing
• attempting to elude

Stevens, Kimberly Leann, 47

• possession of drug paraphernalia

Trammel, Lana Kay, 55

• DUI- .08 BAC or greater

Walker, Jackie Lee Jr., 22

• possession of drug paraphernalia

Cullman Police Department

Bailey, Ashley C., 32

• giving false information to a law enforcement officer

George, William B., 35

• FTA- speeding
• FTA- expired tag

Hanceville Police Department

No arrests reported.

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

Updated 4-26-18 9:40 p.m.

CULLMAN - The CVS Pharmacy at 1906 Cherokee Ave. SW in Cullman was robbed Thursday night, and Cullman Police are asking for the public's assistance- HAVE YOU SEEN THIS VEHICLE? The car has a white driver's side door.

According to Lt. Gene Bates, all of the CVS employees are OK.

Bates said the suspect, a male, entered the store at approximately 8:10 p.m., demanding oxycodone.

"He came in, demanding oxycodone," said Bates. "He did get 32 pills."

Bates said employees believe the suspect was wearing a disguise.

He said the scene has been processed, and that Sgt. David Nassetta and Sgt. Todd Chiaranda are involved in the investigation.

"The best chance we have of finding him is the vehicle," said Bates. "Whether tonight or in the morning, if someone recognizes the vehicle or knows where it is, please contact the police department."

Call 256-734-1434 if you have information.

This is a developing story.

Copyright 2018 Humble Roots, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

The Hanceville City Council on Thursday night reversed its earlier decision, voting instead to reopen the city pool. (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

HANCEVILLE - On Thursday evening, the Hanceville City Council reversed gears on its plan to close the city pool at C.W. Day Park, voting instead to reopen the facility.  The council voted in January to close the pool due to concern over financial losses (the pool lost more than $35,000 in 2017) and the apparent accumulation of potentially dangerous black mold in the pool.

The City had at first looked at plans to fill in the pool and install a splash pad on the site, with a proposed cost of around $65,000, less than the $75,000 estimated cost of repair to the pool. Council members backtracked, though, when splash pad estimates proved to be far too low.

When Mayor Kenneth Nail had a representative of Burleson Pool Co., Inc. in Huntsville come down and look at the pool, the expert determined that the pool suffered not from black mold, but from more easily treatable black algae.  The company estimated that the pool could be treated and restored to readiness to swim for only $4,800.

With assurances from the company representative, who spoke to the council live via conference call, that the $4,800 amount plus the cost of water for a refill would make the pool ready to use, the council voted unanimously to reopen the pool and contract with Burleson Pool for the necessary treatment.

The council did not announce a specific date for reopening the pool.

TAP grant

The council also approved a resolution to seek a state Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant to improve sidewalks along Alabama Highway 91 and Church Street, and to improve pedestrian crossings at the US Highway 31/Alabama Highway 91 intersection.  Citing the needs of local residents and the role that better sidewalks could play in downtown revitalization, the council voted to seek an 80/20 grant to cover a proposed project coat of $162,652.33 with the City putting up a $32, 530.47 cash match to cover 20 percent of the project cost.

Free pantry

Cheyanne Campbell came forward during the public comments portion of the meeting and asked the council’s opinion on the idea of location a free take-or-leave food pantry in Hanceville, similar to the pantry located near Mary Carter Hardware in downtown Cullman  (See www.cullmantribune.com/articles/2017/01/17/little-free-pantry-coming-cul...).  Members received the idea well, voting to support Campbell’s plan, and recommending that the pantry be located behind the library, where it would be accessible to parking and within sight of the police station.  The council even voted to commit $250 toward the cost of materials for the project.

The Hanceville City Council meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, at 6:30 p.m. in the Hanceville City Hall auditorium, with work session at 6.  The public is invited to attend.

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CLANTON– Gov. Kay Ivey announced Friday that President Trump has approved a major disaster declaration in response to the severe weather and tornadoes that occurred March 19, 2018. The federal disaster assistance is designed to supplement state and local recovery efforts in Calhoun, Cullman, Etowah and St. Clair Counties. Public Assistance provides municipalities and county governments assistance with debris removal, emergency protective measures and disaster damage restoration of infrastructure.

“The recovery process following a disaster is a long and tough road and I appreciate President Trump for approving this major disaster declaration request,” Ivey said. “This declaration will provide much needed assistance to Alabamians affected by the March 19 storms and will ease the burden on local governments as they continue the recovery process.”

Individual Assistance has been made available for homeowners and renters in Calhoun, Cullman and Etowah counties. Residents within the counties may now apply for federal disaster assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from the March 19 storms. Assistance for eligible survivors can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, and for other serious disaster-related needs, such as medical and dental expenses. Long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may also be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and that do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations.

“I cannot thank our federal partners enough for their support during the joint damage assessments as well as the constant communication as we awaited final approval,” Director Brian E. Hastings said. “Recovering from disasters requires the whole community. Volunteers, first responders and local Emergency Management officials have done an exceptional job during the response phase and now we are pleased to have federal assistance to help with the long recovery process.”  

For information on how to register with FEMA, you can do so by phone or online:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• On the FEMA Mobile App
• Calling 800-621-3362 (FEMA). Applicants who use Video Relay Service may also call 800-621-3362. People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585 directly; for those who used 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362.
• The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures. The purpose of the program is to reduce the loss of life and property due to natural disasters and to enable mitigation measures to be implemented during the immediate recovery from a disaster.

President Donald Trump/ Courtesy of NBC News

Senior George Gurganus, center, had the largest fish at 2 lbs. 15 oz and the largest overall catch at 48 lbs. 5 oz. (W.C. Mann for The Tribune)

HANCEVILLE - Hanceville area seniors gathered around the pond at Veterans Memorial Park for the annual Senior Fish-O-Rama Friday morning.  Several anglers brought in large loads, most of which were released back into the pond for tomorrow’s Children’s Fish-O-Rama, which will take place from 7-11 a.m.

Senior winners were:

George Gurganus - largest fish at 2 lbs. 15 oz and the largest overall catch at 48 lbs. 5 oz.

Bill Pitts - number two overall catch at 32 lbs. 9 oz.

Ray Lollar - number three largest overall catch at 13 lbs. 8 oz.

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