CULLMAN - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security defines human trafficking as “a form of modern-day slavery, and involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to exploit human beings for some type of labor or commercial sex purpose. Every year, millions of men, women, and children worldwide—including in the United States—are victims of human trafficking. Victims are often...
Guests were asked to sign a “CW” for Curt’s mother, Ashley Wilson./ W.C. Mann
CULLMAN - On Sunday afternoon, the Cullman Elks Lodge was the site of a celebration of the life of Curt Wilson, a Cullman High School student who lost his life as a result of a tragic automobile wreck on May 7. Mother Ashley Wilson’s family and...
Dale Greer / Cullman Economic Development Agency
I see Cullman continuing to grow, continuing to prosper. I think we’ll be very progressive, but I think flexibility is going to be very important as we go forward.”
Dale Greer, director, Cullman Economic Development Agency
CULLMAN - When Peggy Smith retired after a generation as director of the Cullman Economic Development Agency (CEDA), the...
2016 Burgermeister, Rev. John Richter / Andrew Cryer
CULLMAN - Cullman’s annual Oktoberfest celebration is scheduled for Oct. 4-8 this year, and nominations for Burgermeister 2017 are now being accepted.
Being Burgermeister means being the honorary mayor of the city of Cullman during the festival. It is a great honor and previous Burgermeisters have said how much they enjoy their position.
The...
Saxon Levi Waid, 3, the son of a couple killed in a wreck near Duck River Bridge / GoFundMe
CULLMAN COUNTY - A GoFundMe page has been set up for Saxon Levi Waid, 3, the son of an area couple killed in a car wreck in Holly Pond Friday afternoon.
A statement on the GoFundMe page, posted late Friday night, says,...
CULLMAN - The Festhalle and Warehouse District were hopping Friday night, as the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce and Cullman Parks and Recreation held this year’s first 2nd Friday event downtown. The events will take place, you guessed it, on the second Friday of each month through September.
Director of Member Services for the chamber, Magan Bartlett, says 2nd Fridays...
The Heritage Park soccer fields some time prior to this year's Rock the South/ Cullman Parks and Recreation
We want to reassure you that Heritage Park will be even better than it was before. Rock the South is a great team to work with, and they will take care of this. It will take a little time, but it will...
The staff of the courthouse donation bus
CULLMAN - There are many ways to help people, and the most common way is to donate to a good cause. When you add in a competition, people are even more enthusiastic to help contribute, whether the donations are food, clothing, money… or even blood. It's unclear at press time whether Team Cullman...
CULLMAN - If you are looking for something to do in and around Cullman on Saturday, there are plenty of options from which to choose. Things are happening in many different municipalities, starting early and going into the night.
We've listed the events we know of below, with links for full details. If you know of something we've missed, drop...
CULLMAN COUNTY - Two people died as a result of a three-vehicle wreck on U.S. Highway 278 East, just east of the Duck River Bridge, Friday afternoon. Multiple injuries were also reported, with at least three AirEvac Lifeteam helicopters on the scene.
Cullman County Coroner Jeremy L. Kilpatrick has identified the victims as Rachael Kelley, 24, and Matthew Waid, 24,...
Updated article: http://www.cullmansense.com/articles/2017/06/09/coroner-ids-2-victims-fridays-duck-river-bridge-area-crash
Update 5:34 p.m. U.S. 278 has re-opened.
Update 5:02 p.m. ALEA is reporting that a second person has died. Two confirmed fatalities. The wreck happened on the Holly Pond side of Duck River Bridge, at the top of the hill in the curve.
CULLMAN COUNTY - A three-vehicle wreck on U.S. Highway 278 East, just east of the Duck...
Display at the 2015 show / City of Hanceville
HANCEVILLE - With Mayor Kenneth Nail out of town, the Hanceville City Council held its regular meeting with a single item on the agenda this week: to pay the bills, which it did. Beyond that, the big topic of conversation for council members and audience alike was this Saturday’s tractor show.
Hanceville...
1-year-old James Lee Sanson died on May 31, 2016. / Image courtesy of WVTM 13
CULLMAN - After more than a year, the official autopsy report on the death of a Cullman baby who died last May is back. According to Cullman City Police Sgt. David Nassetta, James Lee Sanson, who had just turned a year old shortly before his...
BLOUNT COUNTY - Two people are dead following a two-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 278 near mile marker 102 in Blount County Thursday afternoon. The wreck happened at approximately 3:50 p.m.
According to Alabama State Troopers, a 16-year-old teenager from Altoona was seriously injured when the 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier she was driving collided with a 2000 Ford Windstar driven by...
DODGE CITY - Dodge City Days is rolling into town tomorrow. Said Dodge City Mayor Tawana Canada, the town holds the event so community members can come together and “celebrate our town and how wonderful we are.”
Vendors kick off the event at 8 a.m., followed by inflatables for children, which will be located directly behind the People’s Bank on...
VINEMONT - Alabama State Troopers say texting while driving could be a factor in the crash that killed a Lacey’s Spring woman Thursday afternoon.
Samantha Eugenia Wilkerson, 28, was pronounced dead at the scene of the wreck by Cullman County Coroner Jeremy L. Kilpatrick. Troopers says Wilkerson was driving a 2008 Hyundai that struck a 2005 Peterbilt truck and overturned....
Updated article: http://www.cullmansense.com/articles/2017/06/09/update-thursday-afternoon-blount-county-crash-kills-2
Update 6 p.m. Troopers confirm one fatality in this two-vehicle wreck. Road still blocked.
BLOUNT COUNTY - U.S. Highway 278 remains closed as of 5:50 p.m. in both directions at mile marker 102, according to Alabama State Troopers.
A wreck involving a bus occurred at approximately 3:50 p.m., prompting the closure.
Troopers are not releasing any further information at this...
Editor's note: This story has been updated (see italicized text) to provide clarity. 6-13-17
CULLMAN - On May 18, Ashley Wilson, mother of Curtis James Wilson, 15, filed a wrongful death suit against Bradford Neal Meeks, 27, of Cullman, the driver of the truck that collided with hers on May 7, resulting in her son’s death and injuries to her....
Updated article here: http://www.cullmansense.com/articles/2017/06/08/troopers-texting-and-driving-may-have-been-factor-fatal-crash-vinemont
Updated 6-8-17 at 6:35 p.m. Kilpatrick has identified the victim as Samantha Wilkerson, 27, of Lacey's Spring.
VINEMONT - At least one person is dead following a collision between an 18-wheeler and a passenger vehicle in the 5000 block of County Road 1435 in Vinemont.
Cullman County Coroner Jeremy L. Kilpatrick confirmed the fatality. The wreck happened at...
The heavily modified 1968 Camaro, SS “Reaper,” will be in Baileyton this Saturday./ Reaper SS on Facebook
BAILEYTON - The Discovery Channel show “Street Outlaws” centers on a group of “underground” street racers based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Fans of the show follow the efforts of drivers to get on and top “the List.”
The show’s website says, “Oklahoma City boasts...
Cullman Center Manager Lisa Armstrong and property owner/developer Roy Drinkard
CULLMAN - On Wednesday morning the Cullman Chamber of Commerce, along with Mayor Woody Jacobs and developer Roy Drinkard, held a ribbon cutting to welcome statewide healthcare provider Champion Sports Medicine to its new franchise office in the Wilkommen Center at 1837 Patriot Way SW, near the southside Wal-Mart. The...
BIRMINGHAM - Nine area students received a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degrees from Samford University recently.
Graduates are:
Carissa Faith Crider, of Arab, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, magna cum laude from the Orlean Beeson School of Education.
Emily Copeland Morgan, of Oneonta, earned a Juris Doctor degree, cum laude from the Cumberland School of Law.
Chelsea Cassanne Rollo, of Bremen, earned...
David Hinds, left, graduated from Wallace State in May and is currently interning at HudsonAlpha in Huntsville.
HANCEVILLE - David Hinds was one of the first Wallace State students to show interest last fall in a newly formed genetics research club on campus.
It ultimately led to him earning a summer internship at the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology in Huntsville as...
Claudina Massey gives blood at last year’s City vs. County event / Tribune File Photo
CULLMAN - This year’s City vs. County blood drive will take place on Friday, June 9. LifeSouth will have their famous blood mobiles stationed at four locations around Cullman from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Head of Donor Recruiting with LifeSouth, Melanie Moore, along with her partner at...
Ms. Barbara Ward will be one of the models for the show/ Ethel Alexander
COLONY - The Town of Colony is hosting a fashion show for area senior citizens this Saturday, June 10, at the Colony Educational Complex. According to show coordinator Ethel Alexander, the event will be named “Transiting through the Times: from the Cotton Sack to the Clothes...
Empty and nearly empty shelves in the Cullman Caring for Kids pantry could spell disaster for needy families in the Cullman area.
CULLMAN - Summer can be a busy time at Cullman Caring for Kids (CCK), and the early days of each month always see large numbers of people coming in for help. At maybe the worst possible time, the...
Staff and volunteers pray together before getting to work.
HANCEVILLE - The school year has officially come to a close, and the staffers and volunteers with Hanceville’s Knapsacks for Kids program are reflecting back on the year they’ve had.
Each Friday of the school year, HKK distributed to approximately 50 area students backpacks containing a weekend's worth of nutrition. See our...
CULLMAN - One of downtown Cullman’s newest merchants, Dixie Duds and Décor, is hosting a classic auto show to benefit Desperation Church. This Saturday, June 10 from 1-7 p.m., the Dixie Duds & Decor Car and Bike Show will take place at 300 Second St. SE.
The afternoon and evening will include classic cars, trucks and motorcycles, along with discounts,...
CULLMAN COUNTY - New details emerged this morning about a late-night car chase involving the Cullman County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) that ended in a crash at the end of County Road 437 (Old 69 Highway) where the road dead ends into Smith Lake. The incident started in the Good Hope area around 11 p.m. Monday night, and according to...
CULLMAN - This year’s record-setting Rock the South event is in the books, following a weekend packed with crowds, wild weather and superstar performances from the likes of country megastars Luke Bryan and Sam Hunt. The Tribune checked in with festival founder Shane Quick to get his thoughts on this year’s Biggest Party in the South.
Did the festival meet...
Lowe’s Associate Jeremy McKenzie works on a stranded RTS fan’s electric wheelchair.
CULLMAN - Much has been said about the problems that the rain caused at Rock the South (RTS) and area businesses Saturday, but in at least one case the minor disaster created an opportunity for some local folks to put their best feet forward.
Cullman Police Department (CPD) Chief...
CULLMAN - The Cullman City Council met Monday evening with a single item on its agenda, and that was tabled until next month. Thanks to Rock the South (RTS), though, they still had plenty to talk about.
The skipped item was a public hearing and second reading of Ordinance No. 2017-12, that would extend the Festhalle/Depot Park District (Special Events...
CULLMAN - On Monday evening the Cullman City Planning Commission met before a larger than normal crowd to consider eight subdivision measures and three site plans. The largest item on the agenda was the site plan for the new South Plaza shopping center, to be located on the corner of First Avenue Southwest and King Edward Street Southwest. See...
Updated 6-6-17 at 10:30 a.m. http://www.cullmansense.com/articles/2017/06/06/update-mental-illness-factor-late-night-car-chase-cr-437
Updated 6-6-17 at 1:18 a.m.
CULLMAN COUNTY - A car chase involving the Cullman County Sheriff's Office ended in a crash near the end of County Road 437 and Smith Lake late Monday evening. The Cullman City Police Department was also involved, according to Loretto Volunteer Fire Department Captain Justin Prince.
Troopers with the Alabama Law...
CULLMAN - All in all, the Cullman Police Department is happy after this weekend’s 2-day Rock the South festival. A total of 52 arrests were made, and close to 200 people were ejected, according to Incident Commander, Lt. Jeff Warnke.
“When you think about it, in one night, we had double the population of the city of Cullman inside Heritage...
CULLMAN - On June 14-15, the North Alabama Agriplex will again offer its original summer educational program Touring Farms for Kids.
Director Rachel Dawsey talked about the upcoming event, “Children will learn about farming in Cullman County and North Alabama. Cullman, Alabama is one of our top agriculture counties, and we like to showcase these rich traditions for our participants. ...
CULLMAN - Cullman County offices will be closed tomorrow, Monday, June 5 in observance of the birthday of Jefferson Davis. County sanitation routes will run normally.
City of Cullman offices will be open.
From www.History.com: Jefferson Davis (1808-1889) was a Mexican War hero, U.S. senator from Mississippi, U.S. secretary of war and president of the Confederate States of America for the...
Knockerballs on display at Smith Lake Park last weekend
CULLMAN - Cullman County has seen many new businesses in the past year. One business, Knockerball of Cullman, provides a unique recreation for people of all ages. Managed by William Peek, Knockerball provides large inflatable balls that people can climb into and either bounce around for fun or play specific games...
The track Hurricane Danny took in 1985- Courtesy of NWS Huntsville
“Suddenly, the wind tipped the whole cabin over- carried everything out to sea…. The waves were terrific big things.” (Joseph M. Lyndon, as told to a Miami news reporter, quote later reprinted in the September 5, 1935 Cullman Tribune).
“I was washed into the gulf by a high wave.” (Joseph...
Artist’s conception of South Plaza shopping center
CULLMAN - Samples Properties is a real estate development company that has enjoyed success in the Huntsville area, specializing in office, retail and warehouse space. Now, they’ve decided to make their very first venture outside Madison County, and they’ve set their sights on the city of Cullman.
“We’re excited about doing this,” said Wes...
U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks talks about the American economy.
CULLMAN - The Cullman County Republican Party held its monthly breakfast meeting at the Cullman Elks Club Saturday morning, welcoming speakers from the Cullman County Commission, as well as the region’s state and federal legislative delegations. The keynote speaker was U.S. Rep. Morris “Mo” Brooks of north Alabama’s 5th Congressional District,...
Photo courtesy of www.OutdoorAlabama.com: Amanda Stokes and her party (John Stokes, Savanah, Kevin and Parker Jenkins) from Thomaston, Alabama hauled in this 15-foot, 1011.5-pound gator from the waters near Millers Ferry Saturday morning, August 16, 2014. This is the largest gator to come out of Alabama during a regulated alligator hunt.
MONTGOMERY - The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural...
Cullman County Schools Superintendent Shane Barnette has just completed his first year on the job.
My biggest thing is I don’t want there to be any excuse why a kid cannot graduate high school. I want to work toward getting everybody through a program and having them ready, when they graduate a Cullman County school, they can go into a...
CULLMAN - Arguably Cullman's event of the year, Rock the South lit up the Friday night sky above Heritage park last night. The stage was on fire with talent as well-known acts such as Cody Jinks, Brett Eldridge and Luke Bryan played unforgettable performances. Not only did a big part of north Alabama show up to "party" with Luke...
CULLMAN - In order to better serve the Cullman community, The Cullman Tribune is expanding its print coverage. The Tribune will now be printed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
“The Cullman Tribune, started in 1874, is Alabama’s oldest continuously published weekly newspaper,” said Publisher Noah Galilee. “In early 2016 residents began asking for multiple days, so he we are, with...
Many area churches have chosen the "Galactic Starveyors" theme for this year's VBS. Image credit: Lifeway
CULLMAN COUNTY - The first week of June brings the beginning of Vacation Bible School events around the county. Below is a list of the VBS events that we know of. If you are aware of one we’ve missed, please email us at news@cullmansense.com.
Duck...
Below are the latest honor and merit rolls from St. Bernard Preparatory School.
Honor Roll
Seventh Grade:
Ruby Torres and Campbel Whaley
Eighth Grade:
Nikolas Borths, David DeJesus, Kathleen George, Anna Beth Guthery and Alex Lewis
Ninth Grade:
Ella Buckingham, Alison Gongre, Caleb Guthery, Daniela Hernandez, Mai Thy Nguyen, Yessi Pascual-Contreras, Claire Sanders, Emma Tafazoli, William Tang and Carly Tombo
10th Grade:
Mya Agnello, Elliot Deep, David Kim,...
ONEONTA – Wallace State- Oneonta student Caleb Thomas stays busy between juggling an early-morning shift at TLC Nursing Center in Oneonta and taking classes on campus.
His dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Thomas was named the ARC of Alabama Employee of the Year during the spring semester for his work and dedication at TLC.
“I was surprised and overwhelmed when I won the...
CULLMAN COUNTY - An Arab man was arrested in the early morning hours of Friday, June 2 following an attempted traffic stop at the intersection of Summit Road and County Road 1718 in Cullman County. Joe Louis Moody, 38, is charged with trafficking in methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.
Moody allegedly fled at a high rate of speed...
TUSCALOOSA - The University of Alabama Economic Development Academy recently completed its first Applied Economic Development Honors class with 18 young professionals from around the state participating in the program. Jamie Troutman, business development manager for the Cullman Economic Development Agency, completed the program and will receive her graduation certificate during the Economic Development Association of Alabama summer conference...
L-R: Justin Bernard Gilbreath, Wondlas Mark Givens and Roger Dale Marks
JONES CHAPEL - Three men from the community of Jones Chapel/Water Valley were arrested on Wednesday, following the execution of a search warrant at a residence on County Road 1030.
During the search, agents with the Cullman Narcotics Enforcement Team (CNET) allegedly recovered 2 ounces of meth and a half...
Pictured L-R: Lorie Strane, Janice Knighten, Jill Keeton, Allie Barnett, Dr. Brad Moody, Mayor Jacobs, Dr. Mac Cottingham, Megan Isbell, Kayla Goodwin, Dana Daniel, Matt Davis
CULLMAN - The City of Cullman has joined the specialized medical staff at the Cullman Regional Center for Wound Healing, a member of the Healogics network, to help increase awareness of advanced wound care...
CULLMAN - Cullman Ballet Theatre will present “Swan Lake” tonight at 7 p.m. at the Betty Leeth Haynes Theater on the campus of Wallace State. A second performance will be presented on June 4 at 2:30 p.m.
The timeless piece has been amended by dance veteran and longtime Cullman ballet instructor Elaine Willingham to best fit those who are performing.
“I...
Copies of “Benedict’s Daughter” are available at the Ave Maria Grotto or may be ordered online at www.amazon.com. Any profits from the book will be donated to Saint Bernard.
CULLMAN - Dr. Philip C. Kolin, the distinguished professor of English at the University of Southern Mississippi, has just published a beautiful book of poems, “Benedict's Daughter,” about two long-time St....
Escape Cullman is located in the old Channel 2 office in downtown Cullman.
CULLMAN - Escape Cullman, the area’s first escape game venue, will open its doors today, Thursday evening, June 1. See more here.
Ahead of the grand opening, the staff graciously offered The Tribune the opportunity to take their first finished escape room on a shakedown cruise as they...
CULLMAN - A Hanceville man is behind bars tonight, arrested by Alabama State Troopers today, May 31, in connection with the Mother's Day hit and run crash that killed a Good Hope woman.
According to troopers, Larry Surrett, 58, was arrested and charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident, tampering with evidence and driving while revoked.
"He was arrested...
Guests enjoy a dive-in movie at the Cullman Wellness & Aquatic Center last June.
CULLMAN - One of Cullman Parks and Rec's most popular summer events, the Dive-In Movies, returns Thursday night, June 1.
The movie "Moana" will be shown by the outdoor pool at the Cullman Wellness & Aquatic Center. According to CP&R, gates will open at 6 p.m. for...
I plan, next session, to bring a local bill to put a liquor tax on these alcohol sales. The bill will divide the tax money between county roads, schools and law enforcement.”
Rep. Corey Harbison, R-Good Hope
MONTGOMERY - The Alabama Senate and House of Representatives recently passed Senate Bill 322, which will allow alcoholic beverages to be served at marinas...
MONTGOMERY – House Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter, R- Rainsville on Wednesday announced that State Rep. Corey Harbison, R– Good Hope has been appointed as a member of the House Republican Caucus Whip Team.
“The House Republican Whip Team serves as the leadership’s eyes, ears, and voice on the chamber floor when we are in session,” Ledbetter said. “It is important...
MONTGOMERY – House Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter, R- Rainsville on Wednesday announced that Rep. Randall Shedd, R- Fairview has been appointed as a member of the Republican Caucus Steering Committee, one of the highest leadership posts in the Caucus structure.
“The House Republican Caucus Steering Committee helps set our legislative priorities, recommends the policies that the GOP supermajority should support,...
BIRMINGHAM - The Division of Music in Samford University's School of the Arts celebrated the talents of students, and presented multiple awards and scholarships provided by generous patrons at the annual honors recital.
The longstanding tradition included performances by eight students, and awards presented by faculty members Kathryn Fouse, Joseph Hopkins, Donald Sanders, Eric Mathis and Sharon Lawhon.
Brooke Noe Proctor,...
JACKSONVILLE - Several students from the Cullman area made the President's or Dean's List at Jacksonville State University in spring 2017, including the following:
Joshua Ray Wilson, of Baileyton: Dean's List
Micheal E. Myrick, of Bremen: Dean's List
Rachel Suzanne Hilb, of Cullman: Dean's List
John James Sterling, of Cullman: Dean's List
Katelyn Ann Downs, of Cullman: President's List
Aspyn Leigh Seely, of Cullman: President's...
HANCEVILLE - The nation recently celebrated National EMS Week, May 21-27; now, Wallace State Community College’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program is looking forward to the arrival of a state-of-the-art tool that will help their students as they prepare to take to the streets.
A simulator will soon be arriving on campus that will put students in the back of...
CULLMAN - The Cullman City and County School Boards have released end-of-year statements concerning personnel movements, including more than 30 retirements from the county system.
In an unusual personnel transfer, Principal Kim Brown of Hanceville Elementary School will take charge of Vinemont Elementary School, as Vinemont ES Principal Tony Johnson takes Brown’s place in Hanceville.
Below are the changes reported:
Retirements (County...
HANCEVILLE - The Department of Nursing Education at Wallace State Community College will host two separate adult health and wellness fairs in June to give area residents the opportunity to get information about living a healthy lifestyle. On June 7 and June 14, the CELEBRATE Adult Health and Wellness Fair will be held in the conference center for the...
TROY - Troy University is proud to announce students who completed the requirements for graduation during the spring 2017 semester at the Troy Campus.
Local residents who graduated include:
Kelsey McCluskey, of Crane Hill- Bachelor of Science
Zachary Douglas of Vinemont- Bachelor of Science
Jenna Swafford, of Cullman- Bachelor of Science
About Troy University
Troy University is a public, historic, international university with more than...
BIRMINGHAM - Samford University's Orlean Beeson School of Education held its annual award ceremony May 4 to recognize the many accomplishments of the school's undergraduate teacher education students. Twelve scholarships totaling more than $35,000 were awarded to students pursuing a career in teacher education.
Jacklyn Keller, a senior elementary, special education, early childhood collaborative major from Vinemont, received the Ralph...
New Gator ATV: On the driver’s side, firefighters can access hoses and pumps, as well as water and foam tanks.
HANCEVILLE - After several months of anticipation, the Hanceville Fire Department (HFD) unveiled its newest piece of firefighting equipment recently: a modified four-seat John Deere Gator ATV outfitted for deep woods firefighting and rescue operations. Assistant Fire Chief Bart Absher...
CULLMAN - All Cullman City and County offices will be closed tomorrow, Monday, May 29, 2017, in observance of Memorial Day.
City residential and commercial sanitation schedules will run as normal on Monday, as will Cullman County sanitation.
Cullman County offices will also be closed on Monday, June 5 in observance of the birthday of Jefferson Davis. Sanitation will run as...
BIRMINGHAM - Hannah Proctor, a senior piano pedagogy major from Hanceville, is one of 30 new members of Omicron Delta Kappa national leadership honor society at Samford University.
Omicron Delta Kappa recognizes and encourages superior leadership and exemplary character, and encourages collaboration among members across five phases: scholarship, athletics, service, communications and arts.
Founded in 1914 at Washington and Lee University,...
CULLMAN - Three people had to be extricated from a home on Cullman's west side overnight after the powerful storms that pounded the area left a tree down on a house.
"At approximately 2:30 a.m. Cullman Fire Rescue was dispatched to a home in the 1300 block of Dripping Springs Road Northwest," said CFR's Brian Bradberry. " Engine 1 arrived...
JACKSONVILLE - More than 700 students received degrees at Jacksonville State University's spring 2017 commencement. Graduates from the Cullman area include:
Mitchell Benton IV, of Cullman - B.S. in marketing
Joanna L. Gobbell, of Cullman - B.A. in biology
Jessica A. Lowe, of Holly Pond - B.S.W. in social work
Aspyn L. Seely, of Cullman - B.S. in criminal justice
John J. Sterling, of...
Welti Elementary School honor roll
Third Nine Weeks
All A’s
First Grade: Weston Barnett, Dracen Bates, Kassidy Hooper, My Houston, Henry Jennings, Ally Johnson, Hunter Linton, Leighton McGriff, Ethan Morrow, Marlee Phares, Aeron Pierce, Keegan Stricklin, Pyper Turner and Taryn White.
Second Grade: Riggs Fulmer, Mattie Claire Keith, Lilly Lindsey, Brooklyn Merriman, Katelyn O’Rear, Addison Phillips, Jordan Pierce and Samantha Simmons.
Third Grade: Morgan...
St. Bernard Preparatory graduation will be Sunday, May 28, 2017 at 2 p.m. in the Abbey Church.
“God has blessed us by your presence on this campus. May he bless you as you walk into the adventure of life ahead.”
Proudly, Father Joel Martin, O.S.B., school president
First row, (left to right): Yujin Lee, Caitlyn Norman, Anna Myers, Isabella Cline and...
Can you say brain freeze? Festival-goers compete in an ice cream eating contest.
CULLMAN - Crowds turned out today for what has been seen for many years as the official summer kick-off event for the area: the Smith Lake Park Memorial Day Weekend Festival.
The festival, organized and presented by Cullman County Parks and Recreation, featured entertainment from several local artists...
Local veterans place a wreath at the Veterans’ Park World War I monument.
CULLMAN - Veterans’ Park at Sportsman Lake was the site of solemn remembrance Saturday morning, as area veterans and their families, local dignitaries and others gathered to mark the upcoming Memorial Day and remember those who gave their lives in the armed services of the United States. ...
Cullman City Police Chief Kenny Culpepper, center, at an event this February/Tribune file photo
There are times we get to go into situations where the kid has to be like I was sometimes when I was younger, where they have to be the adult and we help them get somewhere they can be the kid again. Those are the moments...
Saint Bernard Prep School is pleased to announce that senior Dominic Pautler has received the CRESCANT Scholarship at Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, North Carolina.
The CRESCANT Scholarship is given every four years and is highly competitive, based on a student’s resume, including athletic accomplishments. Valued at $123,176, this scholarship covers tuition, room and board, books and a $4,000 allowance...
Grace Hollis, the recipient of the Joe Wayne and Kathryn Maddox Education Scholarship, spoke at the Wallace State Community College Future Foundation’s Scholarship Celebration Breakfast.
HANCEVILLE - The Wallace State Community College Future Foundation recently hosted its fourth Scholarship Celebration Breakfast, during which it was announced the Foundation would be awarding almost $100,000 in scholarships to 80 students for the...
Cullman High School graduation will be on Friday, May 26 at 7 p.m. in Tom Drake Coliseum on the campus of Wallace State.
"Congratulations to the Class of 2017! Your hard work has paid off and your future is bright. Make the most of each day, work hard, be kind and love others. As always, Go BEARCATS!"
Principal Kim Hall
Student...
CULLMAN - If you noticed a heavy police presence in the 700 block of Third Avenue Southeast early this afternoon, there is no cause for alarm.
Cullman City Police Chief Kenny Culpepper said, "We received a call of shots fired, and the caller said there were multiple shots fired, so we were concerned." When cops arrived, the situation was not...
Saint Bernard senior Paul Schartung has received a Congressional appointment to the United States Naval Academy.
Lt. Commander William Cook, Blue and Gold Officer, recognized Schartung at Saint Bernard’s honors ceremony earlier this month.
Schartung also received the Benedictine Medal of Merit Award, which recognizes a life characterized by Christian love shown through one's daily good example of true selflessness and...
Graduation will be Friday, May 26 at 6 p.m. at Central Baptist Church in Decatur.
First row, l-r: Maddie Grace Giers, Tyler Brock, Katelyn Reeves, Ashley Terry, Michaela Sutherland and Emma Thompson
Second row, l-r: Brilye Speegle, Adria Latta
Third row, l-r: Grace Walker, Clara Lanier, Nathan Woodard, Deborah Soloman and Abbie Clemons
Fourth row, l-r: Charis Freeman, Micah Freeman
Fifth row, l-r: Lori...
The Hanceville City Hall conference room was nearly full for the presentation.
HANCEVILLE - Before its regular meeting Thursday evening, the Hanceville City Council welcomed Joey Hester from the North Central Alabama Council of Governments (NARCOG) and Trisha Black from Main Street Alabama (MSA), who talked about what those two organizations’ programs, along with Alabama Communities of Excellence (ACE) accreditation,...
CULLMAN - Former Alabama Crimson Tide star Jeremiah Castille's popular camp is coming back to town. The 10th annual Jeremiah Castille Character Camp will take place on June 10 at Heritage Park in Cullman. The camp, put on through the Jeremiah Castille Foundation, is free and geared toward kids in grades 1-12.
“We call them character camps,” Castille told The...
COLONY - The Colony Town Council met this week, and the big topics of discussion were the town’s Memorial Day celebration and slate of upcoming summer kids’ activities, including a free meal program.
This Saturday, May 27 at 8 a.m., the town will host a breakfast for all area veterans at the Colony Educational Complex. Former State Rep., Rev. James...
Graduation will be on Thursday, May 25, 2017 at 8 p.m. at AG Hicks Stadium.
“As always we at Addison have another outstanding senior class. This group has excelled academically and athletically. Because of their competitive spirit and desire to win, I believe they will succeed in life. When faced with challenges and adversity, they will rise to the occasion...
Graduation will be Thursday, May 25, 2017 at 6 p.m. in the Meek High School gym.
“The faculty and I wish you the best of luck as you make your own way in this life. Always remember: the world is what you make it. Make good choices, and positive outcomes should follow. Never forget that love conquers all, and forgiveness...
CULLMAN COUNTY - Through a federally-funded program co-sponsored by the Alabama State Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cullman County children and teens will have the opportunity to eat free breakfasts and lunches this summer.
According to the program’s website, “Break for a Plate” is “a federally-funded, state-administered program. It reimburses providers who serve free, healthy meals...
Vinemont High School Principal Ferrell Runge, left and Cullman County Schools Superintendent Shane Barnette at the May 22, 2017 school board meeting.
VINEMONT - Two big changes are coming to Vinemont High School for the 2017-2018 school year. The school will have a new principal and a new head football coach.
Principal Ferrell Runge this week announced his retirement, effective June...
NASA spokespersons, in the foreground, show how large the engine section and tank simulator are.
HUNTSVILLE - Last week, a barge arrived at Redstone Arsenal, carrying what NASA calls a “test article” for its Space Launch System (SLS) that will help pave the way for manned missions to Mars. The Tribune was among a small group of outlets that attended...
TROY - Troy University is pleased to announce students who have been named to the Chancellor's List for the spring semester and Term 4 of the 2016/2017 academic year.
Those from the Cullman area who made the list include:
Emily Oden, of Cullman
Allyson Waldrop, of Hanceville
Oakleigh White, of Cullman
Daniel Moss, of Vinemont
Full-time undergraduate students who are registered for at least 12...
Guests went all out, dressing up for the Denim and Diamonds Preakness Party.
CULLMAN - Recently, a crowd of around 175 gathered for the Hope Horses, Inc. (HH) Denim and Diamonds Preakness Party to watch the Preakness Stakes horse race, and help HH raise funds to support its mission of providing equestrian experiences to the Cullman area special needs community.
HH...
Christian Service Award winner Sam Chiodo, Headmaster Dan Baillargeon and Father Bede Marcy
CULLMAN - At ceremonies held in the Fazi-Richard Athletic Center on May 11, 2017, students of St. Bernard Preparatory School were recognized for their outstanding academic achievements during the 2016-17 academic year. Headmaster Dan Baillargeon opened the evening with prayer and served as master of ceremonies. Mary...
Double Purple Heart recipient and Vietnam veteran Steve Larsen (right) of Holly Pond received a Wounded Warrior Coin and certificate from Ken Brown (left), president of the Cullman chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution during a meeting Monday evening.
To submit a community note, email news@cullmansense.com.
Flags displayed along Highway 31 in 2016, put out by members of VFW Post 2214/Image courtesy of Ken Brown
CULLMAN - Cullman’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2214 has several activities planned for this year’s Memorial Day remembrance.
According to Post Vice Commander, retired Air Force Col. Ken Brown, things will get started on Thursday morning, May 25.
Cullman City Cemetery
A group...
CULLMAN - The Cullman City Council held a special session today, during which it approved the event and noise permits for Rock the South and other requests. Mayor Woody Jacobs and Councilman John Cook were absent, both away on business at other events.
With not too many days to go until the highly publicized and attended event takes place, Nathan...
CULLMAN COUNTY - The Cullman County Sheriff's Office is warning citizens of a phone scam currently being perpetrated throughout the area.
A statement from the sheriff's office reads:
The Cullman County Sheriff's Office has received several calls, reports and social media messages from citizens who are getting scam calls from people who claim to be with different government agencies all wanting...
Lawton and Bertha Mae Waldrep will celebrate their 71st Wedding Anniversary on June 1.
Lawton Waldrep was in the Navy and served in World War II. He went to Sasebo, Japan and Shanghai, China. He traveled on a ship called the “Henry A. Wiley” and returned home on the “McCook.” After returning home, he worked at Cullman Products for 31...
Cullman County Commission meeting
CULLMAN - Seating was scarce at the Cullman County Commission meeting this week, as several community representatives came to speak at the public hearing regarding the closing of a portion of County Road 1615 in Berlin. Before the hearing, the commission needed to consider two points of business regarding abatements. The first was an approval for...
