Arrests and Incidents reported January 7, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported January 7, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
January 5
theft by deception-3rd degree; person; cash; $1,000
January 6
theft...
McKenzee Gregory of Hanceville named to Belhaven University fall 2025 President’s List
JACKSON, Miss. - Congratulations to Belhaven University student McKenzee Gregory, of Hanceville, AL on being named to the Belhaven University Fall 2025 President's List.
Gregory is among a select number of students named to the President's List. To be eligible for the President's List, a...
Joppa’s Zachary Haynes named to Columbia College fall 2025 Dean’s List
COLUMBIA, Mo. - Columbia College recently announced its Dean's List for the fall 2025 Semester (August-December 2025). To be named to the Dean's List, a student must have completed 12 undergraduate credit hours in a 16-week period and achieved a minimum GPA of 3.5...
Editorial: Killing the part of me that walks away
I have a character flaw, one I can no longer dress up as self-preservation or strength.
When relationships fracture in my life, with family, friends, business associates or the women I have loved, my instinct is to retreat. Not to repair. Not to listen. I...
Cullman’s Walter Adams named to Marion Military Institute President’s List
MARION, Ala. - College student Walter Adams of Cullman, a Saint Bernard Preparatory School graduate, completed the Marion Military Institute fall 2025 semester on the college's President's List. This academic achievement requires a perfect 4.0 GPA.
Educating leaders since 1842, and a proud member of...
Decia McClure of Cullman named to Northwest President’s List
SENATOBIA, Miss. - Decia McClure of Cullman has been named to the Northwest Mississippi Community College President's List for the fall 2025 semester.
Included on the list are full-time students who completed the semester with a grade point average of 3.75 to 4.0.
Northwest Mississippi Community...
ACES: RiverKids
Paddling is a great way to experience Alabama’s abundant water resources — more than 132,000 miles of fresh water — firsthand while enjoying outdoor physical activity with friends and family. Since the program’s launch in 2016, RiverKids participants have paddled more than 1,000 miles...
Local students named to Jax State fall 2025 President’s, Dean’s Lists
JACKSONVILLE, Ala. - Nearly 1,200 students were named to the President's List at Jacksonville State University for their outstanding academic performance in fall 2025.
To be named to the President's List, students must earn a perfect 4.0 GPA for the semester while completing at least...
Arrests and Incidents reported January 6, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported January 6, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
December 31
theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; miscellaneous; $3; Hwy....
Gentry officially qualifies for Alabama Public Service Commission, Place 1
CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry has officially qualified to run for Alabama Public Service Commission, Place 1.
Below is Gentry’s announcement:
“Today, I officially qualified as a candidate for the Alabama Public Service Commission, place 1. I want to be a voice for...
Josh Speakman announces run for Cullman County Commission, District 2
Updated Jan. 6, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. — Josh Speakman announced this week that he is seeking the Republican nomination for Cullman County Commission, District 2. He stated his decision comes after prayer and conversations with family and close friends and is rooted in a desire...
Vinemont monthly senior events continue Jan. 19
VINEMONT, Ala. - The Town of Vinemont will continue its monthly senior events this year. Seniors are invited to come out the third Monday of each month, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Vinemont Community Center.
Vinemont Town Clerk Kayecea Sasser shared, “When attending a...
Arrests and Incidents reported January 5, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported January 5, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
December 29
harassing communications; CR 127
possession of dangerous drugs; possession of drug paraphernalia; CR 1398
unauthorized use...
Registered sex offender allegedly using assumed name
CULLMAN, Ala. – According to the Cullman Police Department, a registered sex offender was arrested Jan. 1, 2026, at the Cullman Housing Authority following a tip that he was staying at an address on Logan Avenue under an assumed name.
Myron Clifton Marsh Jr., 61,...
Gudger qualifies for reelection to Alabama Senate District 4
CULLMAN, Ala. – Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman has qualified for reelection to Alabama Senate District 4.
Below is Gudger’s announcement:
State Senator Garlan Gudger (R - Cullman) announced on Monday that he has officially filed qualification papers with the Alabama Republican Party for a new term...
COLUMN: Creatures of habit
Do you know the Hokey Pokey song? It begins with, “You put your right foot in, you take your right foot out. You put your right foot in and you shake it all about.” Then after you’ve done all you are told to do,...
Files from Yesteryear: Jan. 3, 1946
From the files of Jan. 3, 1946
HANCEVILLE HAPPENINGS
By HAZEL CARSTENSEN
Mrs. Geo. A. Green spent last week with her mother, Mrs. W. L. Shelton in Electric.
Mrs. Earnest Grund and little daughter, Joyce were the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Grund in Birmingham last week.
Olmer...
Editorial: Public accountability requires real names, not fake profiles
The Cullman Tribune supports open public discussion on issues that affect community safety, criminal justice and accountability. Those conversations matter, and strong emotions are often part of them.
What does not serve the public is the growing use of fake profiles, burner accounts or accounts...
Bartram exhibit starts tour of Alabama State Parks
Visitors to Lake Guntersville State Park learn about William Bartram's explorations in Alabama. (Photo by Jonathan Gruber)
As one of the first people to experience Alabama’s incredible diversity of landscapes and wildlife, 18th century explorer William Bartram traversed much of central and south Alabama during...
‘We’re trying to bring it back to its glory days’
VINEMONT, Ala. - Sportsworld Skate Center hosted a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration Wednesday from 2-5 p.m. before holding its annual all-night skate from 7 p.m.-6 a.m. for teens and adults.
“We used to take our kids to a daytime New Year’s celebration. For us...
Social media reaction to crime story sparks unexpected local response
CULLMAN, Ala. - The story of a Vinemont man being denied bond on sodomy charges involving minor children prompted a wave of reaction on social media — including an unusual grassroots response from local tattoo artists offering discounted or free alterations and cover-ups for...
Longtime City Arborist Darrell Johns dies at 81
CULLMAN, Ala. — Darrell Johns, a longtime City of Cullman employee who spent more than two decades caring for the city’s public trees, died Dec. 24, 2025, at the age of 81.
Johns was born June 19, 1944, in Alabama. Over more than two decades...
Auditions open this month for ‘Pride and Prejudice’
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman Community Theatre will present a classic love story this spring with its production of “Pride and Prejudice,” directed by veteran theater director Kristy McCrickard.
McCrickard, co-chairman of Cullman Community Theatre and one of the organization’s production directors, said the beloved Jane...
Arrests and Incidents reported January 2, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported January 2, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
No incidents reported.
Arrests
December 29 – December 31
Artiaga, Manuel Alejandro; 22
public intoxication
Cammon, Michael E.; 61
public intoxication
Conn, Katherine L.; 55
FTA –...
Ivey: Alabama secures more than $203M for Rural Health Transformation Program
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Dec. 29 announced Alabama has officially received its award number from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), formally approving Alabama’s plan and unlocking $203,404,327 in first-year funding....
Op-Ed: The heart behind Curt’s Closet
Death comes to everyone and we all realize that devastating fact. However, there are some deaths that are extremely brutal, and difficult to ever understand. I’m talking about deaths caused by drunk driving! The story I’m referring to happened to the Wilson family on...
A 75th wedding anniversary celebration!
Donald Russell Strandlund graduated from Moline (Illinois) High School in 1948 and entered four years of service in the United State Navy in Memphis, Tennessee. A friend from Cullman, Alabama invited him to meet "a beautiful girl" during his time in Memphis, so he...
Editorial: When the mail stops, accountability should not
For years, residents across Cullman County have endured inconsistent and unacceptable mail delivery. Nowhere has that frustration been louder than in the 35057 ZIP code.
On nearly every print day, customers call our office to report that their newspaper never arrived.
Some go an entire week...
Alabama’s largest fishing expo set to debut at the Cullman OmniPlex Jan. 16-18
CULLMAN, Ala. - The largest fishing expo in Alabama history is set to make its debut in Cullman, Jan. 16–18, at the Cullman OmniPlex. The Ultimate Fishing Expo will feature hundreds of vendor booths showcasing fishing gear, expert-led seminars, exclusive show-only deals and numerous...
Farm Kids Club offers hands-on herbal remedies class for kids – Jan. 10
CULLMAN, Ala. - The North Alabama Agriplex will host a Farm Kids Club program, "Herbal Remedies for Kids, by Kids," on Saturday, Jan. 10, from 10-11:30 a.m. This program provides children ages 5 and up with a hands-on introduction to herbal wellness. Sponsored by...
Pet of the Week: Lil Jimmy is ready for the journey
CULLMAN, Ala. - Lil Jimmy is a terrier mix, approximately 1-year-old, who wears his heart on his paw. He’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week.
Lil Jimmy is the kind of dog who makes it clear that once he chooses you, you are his...
Aniah’s Law: Vinemont man held without bond in sodomy cases
CULLMAN, Ala. – A Vinemont man will be held without bond in two cases in which he is charged with first-degree sodomy against minor children. The Cullman County District Attorney’s Office said in a statement that Jesse Lee Conn, 33, was ordered held without...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 31, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 31, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
December 29
identity theft; person
theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; general merchandise; $282; Olive St. SW
Arrests
December 30
Brooks, Scotty W.; 45
FTA...
New Year’s Day closures, sanitation delays
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman County residents should expect government office closures and limited service adjustments on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, with most operations resuming Friday, Jan. 2.
Cullman County offices, including the courthouse, will be closed Thursday in observance of the New...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 30, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 30, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
No incidents reported.
Arrests
December 29
Howard, Adam R.; 34
FTA – expired...
Editorial: I quit New Year’s resolutions and nothing fell apart
Most years, New Year’s Eve arrives with a familiar ritual. Resolutions are made. Promises are declared. Jan. 1 is treated like a universal reset button, pressed at the same moment by millions of people hoping this time will be different.
And for a short while,...
New Year’s traditions
As the year comes to a close and a new year begins, cultures around the world welcome the new year with traditions believed to bring luck, prosperity and fresh beginnings.
In the United States, one of the most recognizable customs is singing “Auld Lang Syne”...
CCSO and CPD share tips for NYE safety
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office and Cullman Police Department are sharing ways to be safe on New Year’s Eve.
Sheriff Matt Gentry said as his department rings in the new year, the CCSO wants everyone to enjoy the night — but be...
New Year’s Eve plans take shape around the area
CULLMAN, Ala. - As the calendar turns toward the new year, several businesses and venues in and around Cullman County have announced New Year’s Eve events, ranging from family-friendly celebrations to live music and late-night activities.
Events currently scheduled for Dec. 31 offer options throughout...
Christkindlmarkt sets single-day attendance record, sees visitors from all 50 states
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman Christkindlmarkt continued its rapid growth in 2025, posting record attendance numbers, expanded national and international visitation and a sharp rise in economic impact, according to Nathan Anderson, executive director of Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism.
Attendance estimates compiled by...
Bosom Buddies sees successful 2025, looks to 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman Bosom Buddies Foundation was founded 12 years ago to support local cancer patients. The nonprofit is supported by annual fundraising events and donations.
Cullman County Bosom Buddies Foundation President Jennifer Limerick said one of the most meaningful moments of 2025...
First Day Hikes at Alabama State Parks offer chance to see sunrise, sunset, everything in between
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Kick off 2026 with fresh air and a sense of adventure while enjoying some of Alabama’s most scenic views by participating in a First Day Hike at an Alabama State Park.
Alabama State Parks will again offer First Day Hikes on Jan. 1,...
CCSO announces multiple drug arrests
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office on Monday, Dec. 29, said it was “proud to share the results of recent proactive enforcement efforts that led to multiple significant drug arrests.”
Sheriff Matt Gentry said the arrests are a direct reflection of deputies being...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 29, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 29, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
December 22
possession of dangerous drugs; possession of marijuana; possession of drug paraphernalia; Hwy. 278E
theft of...
Cullman County Democrats set qualifying period for 2026 election cycle
CULLMAN, Ala. - At a meeting earlier this month, the Cullman County Democrats Executive Committee approved the qualifying period for the 2026 election cycle. This election year will include county party positions, selected positions for Cullman County offices, State Democratic Executive Committee members and...
Files from Yesteryear: Dec. 27, 1928
From the files of Dec. 27, 1928
Bees and Butterflies
Carl Thompson is ill with the flu.
Harry Scheuing is quite ill this week.
Mrs. Robert Rosson is quite ill with flu.
C. C. Scheuing has recovered from the flu.
Mrs. Harry Scheuing is quite ill with the flu.
C. E....
COLUMN: The real Christmas story
Once upon a time, long, long ago, there lived a young lady named Mary. Mary was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph. Before they were wed, and while she was still a virgin, Mary was found to be with child. God...
Op-Ed: Tips for a calm pregnancy
I went into my pregnancy journey knowing the absolute basics. I’d read all the highly praised books and even listened to a few parental guidance podcasts. Once you’re in it for yourself those books are rather arbitrary. They can aid in giving you direction,...
Spanish classes coming to Shirley Burden Public Library this winter
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Spanish classes will be offered this winter at the Shirley Burden Public Library in Hanceville. The classes will be held on Tuesdays from 11 a.m.-noon, with sessions scheduled for Jan. 6, Jan. 20, Feb. 3 and Feb. 17.
Alejandra Pena, who has...
Op-Ed: Differentiating AI art from real content
Over recent months I have noticed an increase in AI content on social media. It was horrific to see several people interacting with the posts and actively engaging in the comments under the impression that it is legitimate footage. Now, this isn’t a new...
Pet of the Week: Bowen is ready to be your constant companion
CULLMAN, Ala. - Bowen is a domestic longhair cat, approximately 1 year old, and the kind of companion who settles into your life as easily as he settles into your arms or lap. He’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week.
Calm, affectionate and deeply...
CHS cheer teams celebrate championship season, set sights on national competition
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman High School Junior Varsity and Varsity cheer programs, said the school system, “have completed an extraordinary season marked by hard work, growth, and remarkable achievements across all four teams: JV and Varsity Traditional and JV and Varsity Gameday. Throughout...
ACES: Upcycling after the holiday season
Recycling is a sustainable, eco-friendly practice that benefits individuals, families, businesses and communities. By extending the life and usability of materials such as plastic, paper, metal, glass and electronics, we conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and lower carbon emissions. Modern recycling centers and recurring...
Wallace State faculty member killed in house fire
DECATUR, Ala. – A Wallace State Community College faculty member was killed in a house fire in the early morning hours of Friday, Dec. 26, 2025.
According the reporting from WHNT News 19, Morgan County Coroner Jeff Chunn identified the victim as Susan Beck, 62,...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 26, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 26, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
December 18
theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; general merchandise; $157; Hwy. 157
December 20
theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; Christmas...
Oak Mountain’s new pump track elevates Alabama’s mountain biking status
SHELBY COUNTY, Ala. - Alabama is quickly becoming a destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, and the addition of a new pump track and more than 10 miles of new trails at Oak Mountain State Park in Shelby County enhances that elevated status.
At a recent...
Cullman County Library offers free grant research tool for nonprofits
CULLMAN, Ala. — Cullman County nonprofit leaders and community organizations now have access to a powerful new funding research resource through the Cullman County Public Library System.
Library officials recently announced the availability of Candid, a comprehensive tool designed to help nonprofits identify potential funding...
COLUMN: Sore feet, no seat
I’ve done some dumb things in my life. Over the years, I’ve displayed an All-American level of stupidity on a number of occasions. Once, I gave my wife a gift card for Christmas. What’s worse, it was for Home Depot – that’s stupid. I...
Editorial: Christmas, every day it counted
Christmas meant something different to me growing up.
Santa was never part of the equation. Not because I was cynical or angry or deprived of imagination, but because I understood early that Santa did not write IOUs. He did not wait until tax refunds arrived....
Man from Arab dies after Christmas Eve ATV crash in Cullman County
CULLMAN, Ala. - A man from Arab was killed in a single-vehicle crash involving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that occurred at approximately 10 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24. Alabama State Troopers identified the victim as Jeremiah R. Sivley, 24.
Troopers said Sivley was critically injured when...
Cullman County seniors celebrate the season
CULLMAN, Ala. - Seniors gathered for the annual Cullman County Senior Christmas Party hosted by the Cullman County Commission on Aging (COA) and the Active Adult Center on Dec. 16. The annual favorite brought together volunteers, elected officials and community partners to celebrate the...
Recipe revival: Traditional English scones
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
For Elizabeth Adkins, a warm scone fresh from the oven is far more than a simple baked good.
English scones are a traditional treat from...
Restaurant Feature: Eat by the water at Drifters Bar & Grill
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
Drifters Bar & Grill is a family run restaurant shaped by prayer and persistence, set right on beautiful Smith Lake.
Owners Tanya and Jason Veres...
Hidden Gems: The sweet surprise that is Seven Winds Kitchen
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
Cullman is home to many unique places, shops and hidden gems. Nestled in Logan along County Road 222, Seven Winds Kitchen is a story...
Business spotlight: Weeds N Roots Herbals shares holistic healing locally
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
DeAnn Duke’s journey in herbal medicine began in 1996, when her then 3-year-old son had suffered repeated ear infections — she decided to seek...
Youth present ‘A Christmas Yarn’
CULLMAN, Ala. - Heirlooms Fine and Performing Arts presented “A Christmas Yarn” on Friday, Dec. 19, at St. John’s Church, marking their final performance of the season.
The production was performed by the Heirlooms Players, a homeschool theater class made up primarily of first-time performers....
Day in the life of a Duchess Bakery employee
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
When most of Cullman is still asleep, Duchess Bakery employees begin their day long before the first customer walks through the door.
One of those...
Business spotlight: Tally Ho Fitness more than your average gym
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
Tally Ho Fitness is more than your average gym; the moment you step through the doors, you'll experience the kind of encouragement that makes...
EDITORIAL: The weight that never leaves
There is a kind of tired that has nothing to do with sleep. It does not go away with rest, routine or time. It is the exhaustion of waking up every day already worn down, already negotiating with yourself just to exist.
Living with constant...
Local Heroes: Servant, teacher, giver
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
If someone asked, “Who is Keenan Hollingsworth?” I’m not sure there would be enough time to explain all her hats and descriptions.
Hollingsworth, M.Ed., is a...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 23, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 23, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
December 17
theft of property-4th degree; Monograms Plus; general merchandise; $162; Main Ave. NE
December 19
duty upon striking...
JR Bowling announces candidacy for Alabama Senate District 4
DANVILLE, Ala. – Republican JR Bowling has announced his candidacy for Alabama Senate District 4. The seat is currently held by Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman.
Below is Bowling’s announcement:
JR Bowling, a lifelong North Alabama resident leading with Christian values, patriotism and determination has announced his...
Birdie Box to host 2-Man Best Ball Christmas Tournament Dec. 27
CULLMAN, Ala. – Birdie-Box is set to host a 2-Man Best Ball Christmas Tournament on Saturday, Dec. 27, beginning at 1 p.m. Each team member’s entry includes a meal provided by Birdie-Box’s in-house kitchen, and participants are encouraged to embrace the holiday spirit by...
2025 in Cullman County: Challenge, change and community
CULLMAN, Ala. - From unprecedented challenges to public trust to historic investments in education and infrastructure, 2025 reshaped Cullman County in lasting ways.
The year was not defined by a single headline but by a sequence of moments that demanded reflection, required accountability and revealed...
Santa rides through town
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman Fire Rescue hosted its annual Santa Ride event Sunday evening, Dec. 21.
Cullman Fire Rescue Firefighter/Engineer Jeremy White said the big man himself, Santa Claus, was aboard the fire engine and escorted around town, down neighborhood streets, waving at residents.
“The joy...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 22, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 22, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
December 18
domestic violence; CR 109
theft of property; Sportsman Lake Rd.
theft of property; CR 108
theft of property; CR 805
possession...
Cullman man charged with trafficking fentanyl
CULLMAN, Ala. – A Cullman man was arrested Saturday, Dec. 20, charged with trafficking in fentanyl. Thomas Sawyer, 44, is also charged with unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, obstructing governmental operations and resisting arrest.
According to the Cullman Police Department, officers assigned to Patrol Shift...
Cullman County Mayors and Commissioners Association meeting notes: Dec. 17, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Mayors and Commissioners Association met Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Terri Pines to review how sales, use and lodging tax revenue is collected and distributed among municipalities, school systems and county services.
Officials explained that multiple state laws govern tax...
Alabama DHR launches chipped EBT cards for SNAP and TANF benefits
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Human Resources recently announced the first round of Alabama EBT cardholders are now receiving new, chip-enabled EBT cards. Alabama DHR said the new cards will greatly increase card security, adding more protection against the theft of EBT...
Local heroes: ‘It’s not an obligation; it’s love’
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
For members of the Trimble Volunteer Fire Department, service is a calling born out of love for their town, their families and for one...
COLUMN: All I want for Christmas is:
‘Tis the season to be jolly. ‘Tis also the season when we hear the question, “What do you want for Christmas?” For some, that may be the reason they are so jolly during this season. As we grow older, what we want for Christmas...
Files from Yesteryear: Dec. 20, 1951
From the files of Dec. 20, 1951
To and Fro
Moving back to Cullman Friday will be Mr. and Mrs. D. W. Rainey and son Roger. They have been at home in Nashville, Tenn. but will return here since Mr. Rainey has been made manager of...
ALGOP to open 2026 candidate qualifying Jan. 5
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Alabama Republican Party will open candidate qualifying for the 2026 election cycle on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, marking the formal start of a campaign season that will determine control of Alabama’s top state and federal offices.
Qualifying will begin at 8:30...
From 1 veteran family to 350 local children – Cullman Elks, VFW launch Toys of Joy to support local families
CULLMAN, Ala. - A new holiday outreach program launched this year by Cullman Elks Lodge #1609 and the Cullman Veterans of Foreign Wars is helping ensure local children are not left without Christmas gifts due to late-year hardship.
The initiative, called Toys of Joy, grew...
Cullman City Schools announces 2025–2026 Teachers of the Year
CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman City Schools on Friday announced its five Teachers of the Year for the 2025–2026 school year.
“These outstanding educators represent the very best of the profession and exemplify the dedication, skill, and passion that define teaching excellence in Cullman City Schools,”...
City of Cullman supports Cullman City Schools capital improvement plan
CULLMAN, Ala. - Earlier this week, leaders with the City of Cullman met with officials from Cullman City Schools to celebrate the continued commitment to the district’s long-term capital improvement plan.The City presented the school system a $600,000 check to support the Safety and...
CCBOE holds final meeting of 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Board of Education (CCBOE) held its final meeting of the year on Thursday, Dec. 18, approving a full slate of items.
Board members approved the Nov. 13 meeting minutes and approved school-related requests, including supplemental pay for athletic and...
Bentley, Hartline named CCBOE Teachers of the Year
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman County Schools on Wednesday, Dec. 17, surprised the Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year for the district.
Elementary Teacher of the Year: Lauren Bentley, Hanceville Primary School
Lauren Bentley has been teaching Kindergarten at Hanceville for 23 years. Bentley, a...
ALEA launches ‘12 Days of Safety’ campaign
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — As families across Alabama prepare for holiday travel, celebrations and ringing in the New Year, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is preparing to kick off its annual “12 Days of Safety” campaign — a festive, interactive public-safety initiative designed to...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 19, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 19, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
December 15
theft of property; Dollar General; general merchandise; CR...
WSCC Christmas Spectacular thrills
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College hosted its annual Christmas Spectacular on Thursday, Dec. 11, celebrating the holiday season through music, dance and performances that left audience members cheering and applauding.
The variety-style showcase featuring all of Wallace State’s artistic ensembles, including the Concert...
Op-Ed: The upward spiral that is parenthood
Pregnancy is the closest equivalent to a baptism/rebirth I have ever experienced. You spend your life in this daze and suddenly you just – are. You are a parent. The narrow worries you had are so minuscule now. Your goals, while the same, have...
Wallace State Sonography program graduates 2 classes
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College celebrated graduates of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program with a pinning ceremony for graduates of the General/Vascular and Cardiovascular pathways.
Almost 30 students received pins at the ceremony that marked their successful completion of the program, with most...
Wallace State Diagnostic Imaging program celebrates graduates
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College’s Diagnostic Imaging program celebrated the success of nearly 40 students during its pinning ceremony for the class of 2025.
Program Director Kelli Rich congratulated the students, reminding them of all they’ve learned in their four semesters in the...
Thunderstorms enter state late afternoon
CLANTON, Ala. – Thursday, 1:15 pm, Dec. 18, 2025
A broken to solid line of thunderstorms will enter northwestern Alabama around 4 pm, move southeastward throughout the evening, and exit the far southeastern sections before daybreak Friday.
Latest hi-resolution model data indicates enough instability and wind...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 18, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 18, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
December 15
possession of dangerous drugs; possession of drug paraphernalia; CR 1224
harassing communications; CR 1816
assault; CR...
Youth raise funds for First Source for Women
Calvary Baptist Church, Cullman recently held a “Collect Pennies” contest for First Source for Women. The winner was Reagan Duke. They brought in a total of $21.36. Left to right are Elijah Ross, Bodie Pugh, Xavier Duke, Reagan Duke and Mary White. (Calvary Baptist)
Welcome Homestead hosting classes
BAILEYTON, Ala. – Welcome Homestead, a locally owned regenerative farm and health store in Baileyton, is hosting classes for the community.
Owners Michael and Jaclyn Bailey said they have grown most of their own food for a while, but God called them to grow it...
Keep pets safe around holiday decorations and foods
CULLMAN, Ala. - Christmas decorations and holiday meals are part of what makes the season special, but they can also pose hidden dangers for pets.
Local animal welfare officials and national pet safety organizations encourage pet owners to take a few extra precautions during the...
Pet of the Week: Holly Klaus is waiting for you
CULLMAN, Ala. - Holly Klaus is a domestic shorthair tabby, approximately 1 year old, with a gentle presence that quietly draws you in. She’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week.
Amiable and humble, Holly is happiest simply being near you. Whether she is following...











































































































