Che Sollievo Spa & Salon open downtown
CULLMAN, Ala. - Che Sollievo Spa & Salon opened its doors on Sunday, April 12, in downtown Cullman.
Co-owner Amy Benson said the name “Che Sollievo” is inspired by the Italian phrase for “what a relief,” reflecting the experience the team hopes to create for guests.
“We want people to come here and, when...
Pet of the Week: Franny will find her way into your heart
CULLMAN, Ala. – Franny, The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week, isn’t the loudest dog in the yard, and she doesn’t demand attention the moment you walk in. Instead, she is a doggo quietly waiting to be discovered, a hidden gem with a mountain of love just beneath the surface.
A terrier/Lab mix estimated...
2 indicted in connection with 2020 Cullman County double homicide; 1 pleads guilty
CULLMAN, Ala. - Two individuals have been indicted in connection with the Aug. 15, 2020, murders of Levi Benjamin Lawrence, 24, of Cullman, and Dalton Matthew Bannister, 36, of Blountsville.
A Cullman County grand jury on Monday, April 13, 2026, returned indictments against Tyler Dwight Dooley, 32, of Arab, and Samantha Star Robertson, 25 of Cleveland, Alabama....
Beau’s Law sets new standards for dog care ahead of October implementation
CULLMAN, Ala. - A newly signed state law sets baseline standards for how dogs must be cared for in Alabama, with supporters calling it a long overdue step to prevent neglect before it escalates into abuse.
Known as Beau’s Law, the legislation was signed by Gov. Kay Ivey during the...
Wallace State Men Win ACCC Tennis Championship; Gautier Named Player of the Year
MILLBROOK – Wallace State won the ACCC Men's Tennis Tournament championship at 17 Springs in Millbrook, earning the conference title and advancing to the NJCAA National Tournament in Plano, Texas, scheduled for May 11-15.
In singles play, Wallace State won titles at No. 1, No....
Obituary: Betty Jean Wood
Betty Jean Wood, 91, of Cullman, Alabama, passed away peacefully at Woodland Village Nursing and Rehab on April 15, 2026, with her family by her side.Betty Jean was born August 25, 1934, in Maxton, North Carolina, to the late Luther Thomas "Red" and Lena...
Wallace State Women Capture ACCC Tennis Championship; Standifer Earns Player of the Year Honors
MILLBROOK – Wallace State won the ACCC Women’s Tennis Tournament championship at 17 Springs in Millbrook, finishing with victories in five singles finals and all three doubles finals against Coastal Alabama South. With the win, the Lady Lions earned a trip to the NJCAA National...
Arrests and Incidents reported April 15, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported April 15, 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
April 14
duty upon striking unattended vehicle; person; damage to...
Obituary: Frankie Lee Jones
Frankie Lee Jones, 78, of Cullman, Alabama, passed away on April 13, 2026. Born May 30, 1947, in Alabama, Frankie lived a life marked by steady devotion, diligent work, and a generous willingness to serve others—qualities that shaped his family, his career, and his...
Obituary: Marialyce D. Lavelle, Oblate O.S.B.
Marialyce D. Lavelle was born 22 July, 1947 and went to be with our Lord on 7 April, 2026.She is preceded in death by her parents, Bernard John Lavelle and Phyllis Louise (Doe) Lavelle and is survived by her brother John Henry Lavelle and...
Obituary: Sebrenia D. Waldrep
Sebrenia D. Waldrep, age 64, of Vinemont, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at her home. She was born on September 25, 1961, in West Point, Mississippi, to James and Joan Sansing Anderson.
Sebrenia was a devoted member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses,...
Obituary: Minnie Jo Thomas
Mrs. Minnie Jo Thomas passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at her residence at the age of 90.
A Celebration of Life Service will be Saturday, April 18th, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Vinemont Christian Church. Interment will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery.
The family will...
Brooklyn Merriman crowned 2026 Miss Alabama Strawberry Festival
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Miss Alabama Strawberry Festival Pageant continues to play a key role in one of Cullman’s most anticipated annual events. This year's pageant was held Saturday, April 12, at the Desperation Church Student Center. Fairview High School’s Brooklyn Merriman took home the crown.
The pageant has been part of the festival for decades. While it...
Wallace State Jazz Band hosting annual Big Band Dance April 17
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College will host the annual Big Band Dance on Friday, April 17, at 7 p.m., in the Burrow Center for the Fine and Performing Arts.
The event will feature the Wallace State Jazz Band and the WSCC alumni Jazz Band. More...
EDITORIAL: As cameras go up, questions follow
What is Flock Safety? What does it do? What does it mean for residents and visitors?
They are small, often mounted high on poles or along roadways, easy to miss unless you know what you are looking for.
But for many communities across the country, Flock cameras have become...
PREP BASEBALL & SOFTBALL: Scores and stats for April 14, 2026
BASEBALL
Addison 16, Athens Bible 7 - Batting: C. Speegle 4-6 (2B x2), 1 RBI Pitching: T. Thompson 7.0 IP, 4 ER, 6 K, W
Addison 25, Athens Bible 15 - Batting: B. Bridges 3-3 (2B x2), 6 RBI Pitching: T. Gaither 4.1 IP, 6...
PREP BASEBALL: Speer’s two-way game gives Vinemont an 8-2 area win over Holly Pond
VINEMONT, Ala. - The first area meeting between Vinemont and Holly Pond took place at Holly Pond on Monday afternoon, and the Eagles ended up defeating the Broncos, 13-2. Both teams met up again Tuesday at Vinemont in a huge doubleheader for both teams. In game...
West Point’s Alaina Riggs ‘Best of Show’ in 2026 4th Congressional District Art Competition
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Congressman Robert Aderholt, R-Alabama, on Tuesday announced that Alaina Riggs, a student from West Point High School, was named the “Best of Show” winner in the 2026 4th Congressional District Art Competition. An awards ceremony was held on April 13.
As the top overall winner,...
Obituary: Leo Madonna Swann
Leo Madonna Swann, age 91, was born to Clayton and Clarycie Williams on August 7, 1934. She married Mitchell R. Swann on Oct. 31, 1953. She was a member at Harmony Baptist Church all her life!
To know Leo was to love her! She was...
Arrests and Incidents reported April 14, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported April 14, 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
No incidents reported.
Arrests
April 13
Key, Seth P.; 43
FTA – possession...
Wallace State to host Watch Party for ‘The College Tour’ episode premiere
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College will host an exclusive Watch Party for the premiere of its episode of The College Tour on Wednesday, April 15, at noon in the Betty Leeth Haynes Theatre.
The Watch Party offers attendees an early look at the episode before...
Business Spotlight: The Uniform Initiative
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Uniform Initiative, next to Monograms Plus, was created to serve the area's growing medical community and anyone looking for stylish, practical workwear. Stephanie King, who worked in health care for over 30 years, said she opened the store because she wanted a new challenge but still...
Business Spotlight: Adoration Home Health
CULLMAN, Ala. - Adoration Home Health offers in-home health care services help patients stay independent and makes the move from hospital to home easier by offering caring, high-quality support in a familiar setting.
The company chose Cullman for its new location because the area is growing and more people need home-based health care.
The...
PREP BASEBALL & SOFTBALL: Scores and stats from April 13, 2026
BASEBALL
Addison 9, Athens Bible 0 - Batting: J. Williams 2-4 (HR), 3 RBI Pitching: K. Lake 7.0 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 4 K, W
J.B. Pennington 10, Hanceville 7 - Batting: H. Black 2-4 (3B), 2 RBI Pitching: H. Black 6.0 IP, 3 ER,...
PREP BASEBALL: Addison notches fourth straight win with 9-0 shutout of Athens Bible
ADDISON, Ala. - In a matchup of two of the top 1A squads, the sixth-ranked Addison Bulldogs hosted the seventh-ranked Athens Bible Trojans. Addison dominated and came away with a solid 9-0 victory. The teams will play a double header tomorrow at Athens Bible to continue the rivalry.
Addison...
‘We lost a piece of our history’: Historic Stiefelmeyer Building burns
CULLMAN, Ala. - Firefighters worked for hours Monday to contain a blaze at the historic Stiefelmeyer Building in downtown Cullman, with crews remaining on scene as of print time, late evening. Cullman Fire Rescue Chief Darren Peeples said the building was “not salvageable.”
Cullman Fire...
Obituary: Janice Eason Tucker
Funeral service for Janice Eason Tucker, 78, of Cullman will be at 2 p.m., Wednesday, April 15th, 2026, at Cullman Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Good Hope Cemetery, Bro. Tim Box and Bro. Benjamin Smothers officiating. The family will receive friends from 12-2...
Arrests and Incidents reported April 13, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported April 13, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
April 9
harassing communications; CR 1710
theft of property; CR 902
theft of property; Hwy. 278W
theft of property;...
Obituary: Sarah Alice Walker
Funeral services for Sarah Alice Walker, 84, of Hanceville will be 11 a.m., Tuesday, April 14th at Hanceville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow the service at Center Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to the service from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at...
Obituary: Janice Jones
Funeral service for Janice Jones, age 77, of Cullman, will be Tuesday, April 14,2026, at 2 p.m. at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home, with Bro. John Garrison officiating. Visitation will be on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Cullman Heritage...
Cullman EMS ambulance involved in accident
BETHEL, Ala. - A Cullman EMS ambulance was involved in a motor vehicle accident early Monday morning on U.S. Highway 278 West.
The Jones Chapel Volunteer Fire Department was paged to assist at approximately 5:13 a.m. following a crash involving the ambulance and a pickup truck hauling...
ALEA launches new online marine event permit submissionto streamline service
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division is enhancing its service to the public with the launch of a new, streamlined online submission form for marine event permits.
The updated system replaces the previous paper-based process, which required applicants to download, print and scan forms prior to submission. With the new digital platform, individuals and organizations can now complete and submit applications entirely online, saving time, reducing paperwork and...
Pulling for Survivors tractor pull returns during Alabama Strawberry Festival – April 25
CULLMAN, Ala. - The annual Pulling for Survivors tractor pull will return Saturday, April 25, at 9 a.m. as part of the Alabama Strawberry Festival. Hosted in partnership with Cullman Fire Rescue, Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism and TriGreen Equipment, which will be providing the John Deere tractor, the event will benefit The Willow Path, a...
Harbin found direction at Wallace State Community College
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College Psychology Instructor Casey Harbin said he did not intend to become a teacher. After earning degrees in history and psychology from Auburn University, he planned to take the LSAT to become an attorney. Instead, he found his way into education via...
BOOK REVIEW: ‘The Incredible Winston Browne’ by Sean Dietrich
This novel by Sean Dietrich has a dual storyline. The first is about Sheriff Winston Browne and the residents of Moab. The second is about a young girl who is being held captive in a cult.
Set in the 1950s, “The Incredible Winston Browne” is a heartwarming novel. Winston has never...
(Updated) 2 dead following 2-vehicle wreck in Walter
Updated April 13, 2026, at 12:20 p.m.
WALTER, Ala. - Two people died as a result of a two-vehicle wreck Sunday evening in the Walter community in Cullman County.
Alabama State Troopers on Monday morning identified the victims as Oneal Kelley, 84, and Martha Kelley,...
ARCHERY: Vinemont Elementary takes 2026 NASP State Championship behind top ten marks from Stracqualursi and Phillips
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Teams from across Alabama met at the Cramton Bowl Multiplex in Montgomery on Friday for the 2026 NASP Alabama State Championship. After finishing second in the 3-D State competition behind East Elementary in March, Vinemont Elementary's team got to celebrate with...
FAITH: Get to know Cullman Christian School
With the 2025-2026 school year coming to a close, registration for next year is now open at Cullman Christian School. The school welcomes families to learn more about enrolling, as the school continues to grow and expand its campus.
Principal Heath Yearwood explained that the school’s foundation is a Christ-centered...
A moment with new UWCC Executive Director Tyler Hooper
CULLMAN, Ala. - Tyler Hooper officially stepped into his role as executive director of the United Way of Cullman County on March 2, 2026.
Hooper said the community has played a significant role in shaping who he is, so having the opportunity to now serve it in this capacity is both an honor and a responsibility...
COLUMN: I’ve never been to Oklahoma, but I’ve been to Spain
Yes, I know the songs says, “Well, I’ve never been to Spain, but I’ve been to Oklahoma,” but the opposite is now true for me. I have now visited Spain and every state on every side of Oklahoma, but not Oklahoma. Eventually, I’ll get...
Files from Yesteryear: April 11, 1946
From the files of April 11, 1946
To and Fro
By EAGLE EYE
“I’m a school boy, age nine. I’m interested in the Strawberry Festival parade and would like to know if I could ride my bicycle in it” writes Bresee H. Vest to the parade chairman,...
FAITH: Cullman’s Rachel Hoffman discusses her faith and being a role model for the youth
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman senior basketball player Rachel Hoffman is so grateful to have God in her life, and He has changed her life in so many ways.
"God means a great deal to me, because He loves me, protects me, and most importantly, He...
Sacred Heart holding fundraising walk from Hanceville to Cullman April 12
CULLMAN, Ala. – Sacred Heart School at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church is sponsoring a fundraising walk from the church’s mission church, St. Boniface in Hanceville, to the main church and school in Cullman on Sunday, April 12. The walk will begin at 2 p.m., and shuttles...
Wallace State hosts Jill of All Trades event
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Wallace State Community College hosted the first-ever Jill of All Trades event in Alabama on Friday, April 10. Hosted across the campus, the one-day event was a hands-on career exploration program designed to introduce young women to high-demand skilled trades such as manufacturing, construction, transportation...
Hanceville Council talks online youth sports registration
HANCEVILLE, Ala. – The Hanceville City Council at is April 9 meeting addressed online registration for youth parks and recreation league sports.
Council members voted to use Jarvis Recreation Management registration management software as a way to make signups more efficient.
In comparison, there were three in-person signups this year. The council said using online registration would...
PREP BASEBALL: Big first inning, strong pitching by Drummond & Wallace helps Vinemont get past Locust Fork in area matchup, 7-4, plus Friday scoring recap
VINEMONT, Ala. - April has been very kind to the Vinemont Eagles so far, as they are 3-1 in their first four games of the month. They looked to keep that momentum going at home against Locust Fork on Fridaynight in a huge area game....
Local students, leaders honored with statewide Farm-City Awards
Farm-City grows Alabama through service, student success
AUBURN, Ala. - Service and community involvement took center stage as farmers, leaders and students came together for the Farm-City Banquet April 9 in Auburn, recognizing achievements and embracing this year’s theme, “Grow Alabama.”
The theme was a callback...
Obituary: Gerald “Squirrely” Eugene Campbell
Was born July 20, 1943, in Alabama and passed away April 8, 2026, at the age of 82. Gerald was a devoted and well-known presence to many, remembered with deep respect for the life he lived and the people he valued. After this introduction,...
Obituary: Alexander Scott Morton
Alexander Scott Morton, known to most as Alex, passed away on April 9, 2026, at the age of 27. Alex was born in Jefferson County, Alabama, on January 30, 1999.
Alex is preceded in death by his grandmother, Teresa Hollins; great-grandparents, Bill and Julia Worley,...
Obituary: Rebecca Ann Lynn
A Service celebrating the life of Rebecca Ann Lynn, age 85 of Cullman, will be at 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home; burial will be Sunday at Cullman City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. – 6...
Obituary: Charles “Elwin” Trimble
Charles "Elwin" Trimble, age 73 of Hanceville, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at his residence. He was born April 25, 1952, to Clifton Coy Trimble and Eneva Campbell Trimble.Beloved Husband, Daddy and Pawpaw, Elwin served in the US Airforce from 1971-1975, and...
Obituary: Ronnie Paul Jarrett
Ronnie Paul Jarrett, age 69 of Addison, passed away Wednesday, April 8, 2025. He was born February 1, 1957, to John Paul and Thelma Hayes Jarrett.Ronnie worked as an owner-operator of a trucking company for over 50 years. He loved the freedom of the...
Arrests and Incidents reported April 10, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported April 10, 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
April 7
theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; general merchandise; $125;...
Obituary: Ray Kretzschmar
Born in Garden City, Alabama, Ray was a lifelong member of the community he loved. He will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, veteran, neighbor, and friend, whose kindness, presence and sense of humor touched the lives of many.Ray was a welder by...
Obituary: Joel Wendal Kennemur
Funeral services for Joel W. Kennemur, 83, of Athens will be 12 p.m., Sunday, April 12th at Hanceville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow the service at Bethlehem East Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday, April 11th from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. at Hanceville...
Honey: Nature’s original sweetener
There are many sweeteners available to us, but the most interesting and diverse is honey. Honey is a product of honey bees and the only insect-derived natural sweetener widely available. Honey also comes in many flavors and textures, making it nature’s original sweetener.
Foraging for food
Honey bees rely on...
First graders shine in ‘The Day the Crayons Quit’ musical at CCPS
CULLMAN, Ala. – First-grade students of Cullman City Primary School recently took the stage in a vibrant performance of “The Day the Crayons Quit” — a celebration of creativity, confidence and self-expression.
The show is based on the beloved book by Drew Daywalt, and the students delivered a colorful and engaging performance through...
Alabama Extension challenges residents to move more this month
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. -With warmer temperatures and more sunlight in the evenings, spring is the perfect time to get up, get out and move more. That’s why Move Alabama — A Community Physical Activity Challenge runs throughout the month of April.
Move Alabama is a social marketing campaign of...
PREP BASEBALL & SOFTBALL: Scores and stats for April 9, 2026
BASEBALL
Cold Springs 8, Winston Co. 5 - Batting: C. Johnson 3-4, 1 RBI Pitching: C. Johnson 6.0 IP, 5 R, 1 ER, 5 K
Cullman 6, Jasper 1 - Batting: J. Inman 2-3 (HR x2), 3 RBI Pitching: M. Carver 7.0 IP, 2 H, 1...
Cullman County CDC hosting Cullman Family Expo this Saturday, April 11
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Child Development Center (CDC) Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) will host its fourth annual Cullman Family Expo this Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. at the Cullman County Agricultural Trade Center.
Expo Chair Jennifer Hodges said this is...
Cullman Regional Foundation Gala XXV coming April 25
CULLMAN, Ala. - The annual Cullman Regional Foundation Gala will take place on Saturday, April 25, at 5:30 p.m. at The Venue at Cotton Creek.
Gala XXV’s theme is Silver Jubilee: 25 Years of Impact. The evening will feature a lovely dinner and special program,...
Obituary: Nancy Carol Ergle Hudgins
Funeral service for Nancy Carol Ergle Hudgins, 72, of Cullman will be at 2 p.m., Monday, April 13, 2026, at Cullman Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Bethlehem Cemetery, Rev. Steve Rodgers officiating. The family will receive friends from noon-2 p.m.
Cullman Funeral Home is...
Obituary: Rev. Jim Hampton
Funeral service for Rev. Jim Hampton, of Baileyton, will be at noon on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Cornerstone Revival Center with Bishop Greg Wilbanks, Bro. Ken Artis, Bro. Sean Ryan and his grandson, Solomon Cason officiating; burial at Bethel Methodist Cemetery. Visitation will...
Arrests and incidents reported April 9, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported April 9, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s OfficeIncidents
April 6• theft of property; CR 38• harassment; CR 768• harassing communications; CR...
Cullman Swim Association wraps up competitive season after pair competes at NCSA championships
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman Swim Association (CSA) wrapped up their competitive swim season at the end of March after participating in meets held in Huntsville, Madison, Birmingham, Nashville, Atlanta and Orlando. The USA short course swim team has trained and put in long...
Holly Pond distributes funds to area schools
HOLLY POND, Ala. – The Holly Pond Town Council at its April 6 meeting distributed funds to local schools and held a public hearing about vacating roads.
With increased funding of $15,000 to distribute among Holly Pond schools, Mayor Carla Hart expressed the importance of having the elementary, middle and high school budgets be fairly distributed. Each...
Cullman City Planning Commission notes: April 7
CULLMAN, Ala. - The City of Cullman Planning Commission met at the city hall auditorium on April 7.
The commission held a public hearing regarding two subdivisions in progress. First on the agenda was Iron Hills at Cross Creek. This subdivision is located along County Road 490 off Gold Course Road Southwest.
A letter from David Hayes, president...
Hoop Shoot champs recognized at Cullman City Council meeting
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman City Council at its Monday, April 6, meeting took a few moments to recognize winners of the local Elks Club 2026 Hoop Shoot.
Winners included Alex Wood of Holly Pond Elementary School, Avery Stricklin of Good Hope Elementary School, Kylie Minor of East Elementary School, John Carl Knight of Sacred...
Pet of the Week: Meet Cookie!
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cookie is an Australian Shepherd mix with a calm personality, a love for simple moments and a quiet need for reassurance. She’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week.
Estimated to be around 5-6 years old, she has a medium energy level and does well...
TRACK & FIELD: Fallin and Swidecki earn MVP honors; West Point’s boys and Cold Springs’ girls run away with 2026 Cullman County titles
BREMEN, Ala. - The 2026 Cullman County outdoor track championship was held at Cold Springs high school on Wednesday.
In the boys competitions, West Point ran away with a 170 point victory to repeat as county champions. Senior Asa Sutter earned three gold medals...
Obituary: Benjamin Cody Weeks
Benjamin Cody Weeks passed on April 6, 2026, at the age of 42. He was born on Aug. 29, 1983. Benjamin was a resident of Cullman, Alabama.
Benjamin is survived by his mother Delilah Lee Griffith (Mark); Mason Cody Weeks his son and Mason's mother...
Obituary: Jerry Craft
Funeral service for Jerry Craft, age 79 of Hartselle, will be at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home with Dr. Wesley Johnson officiating; burial at Whitewater Baptist Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, April 10,...
James Doss sentenced to 325 years in sex crimes against children case
CULLMAN, Ala. - A Cullman County man on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, was sentenced to 325 years in prison by Cullman County Circuit Court Judge Emily Niezer Johnston. James Michael Doss, 67, earlier this year entered a blind plea of guilty to 12 charges...
Arrests and incidents reported April 8, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported April 8, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s OfficeNo incidents or arrests reported.
Cullman Police DepartmentIncidents
April 6• burglary-3rd degree, criminal mischief-3rd degree;...
Know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke
As spring heats up and gives way to summer, it’s important to know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat usually peaks between noon-3 p.m. so it's best to avoid going outdoors during these hours. If you must, try limiting yourself to short bursts. Take breaks and be...
Local Musician Spotlight: Case Graham
CULLMAN, Ala. - Case Graham is a local musician with an excellent reputation for his guitar skills. His style is a combination of rock and metal mixed with groove funk, layered with heavy jazz influence.
Though he knew from a young age that he wanted to play guitar, he said, it wasn’t easy.
At age 9 he told his parents he wanted to play,...
Barefoot University Butterfly Buffet
CULLMAN, Ala. - On Friday, April 3, families gathered at the Sportsman Lake Park Wildflower Garden for a hands-on event called the “Butterfly Buffet,” hosted by Barefoot University.
Alex Bass, who leads Barefoot University with Rachel Phillips, explained that the activity helps children connect with nature in a fun...
Sportsman Lake Park hosts annual Easter Egg Hunt
CULLMAN, Ala. - Sportsman Lake Park held its annual Easter Egg Hunt early Saturday morning, April 4. This long-standing tradition keeps growing each year. The free event took place at the park playground and welcomed children of all ages for activities, photos with the Easter Bunny...
Jacobs proclaims April 12–18 Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in city
CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs has proclaimed April 12–18, 2026 Public Safety Telecommunicators Week in the city of Cullman, recognizing the critical role emergency dispatchers play in protecting lives and property across the community.
Public Safety Telecommunicators serve as the first point of contact during emergencies, answering calls, gathering...
PREP BASEBALL & SOFTBALL: Scores and stats for April 7, 2026
BASEBALL
Addison 18, Meek 6 - Batting: J. Williams 2-5 (3B), 2 RBI Pitching: S. Talley 3.0 IP, 0 H, 1 ER, 4 K, W
Addison 16, Meek 6 - Batting: T. Thompson 1-2 (HR), 2 RBI Pitching: B. Lake 2.1 IP, 1 H, 1...
PREP SOFTBALL: Benefield’s one-hitter gives Good Hope their third straight County Tournament title in 3-0 win over West Point
VINEMONT, Ala. - On Tuesday afternoon at the Vinemont Sports Complex, fifth-seeded Good Hope met sixth-seed West Point in the 2026 Cullman County Tournament championship game. The Lady Raiders and Lady Warriors, who faced off in last year's title game, gave fans a show...
East Elementary’s Lacy Cameron named Alabama Teacher of the Year ‘Sweet 16’ finalist
CULLMAN, Ala. - East Elementary Fifth-Grade Teacher Lacy Cameron has been named one of 16 finalists (commonly known as the "Sweet 16") for the prestigious 2026–2027 Alabama Teacher of the Year.
Exemplary teachers inspire students to reach their full potential by instilling in them a...
Obituary: Joan Dean Hill
Funeral services for Joan Dean Hill, 88, of Hanceville, will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 12, at Hanceville Funeral Home. Bro. Christopher Dotson will be officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service from 2-3 p.m. at Hanceville Funeral Home.
Joan was born July...
Obituary: John Schafer
Funeral service for John Schafer, age 68, of Vinemont, will be at noon on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Macedonia Baptist Church with Jacob Watts and Chuck Johnston officiating; burial at Macedonia Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026,...
Cullman overhauls paving plan, ties road projects to data, budget, public oversight
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman City Council has adopted a new ordinance designed to reshape how the city plans, funds and executes street and transportation infrastructure projects, tying long-term planning directly to the budgeting process.
The measure formally establishes an annual Street and Transportation Infrastructure Capital Improvement Plan and...
Power to the People Act expands Alabama Public Service Commission, limits base rate increases through 2029
CULLMAN, Ala. - A newly signed state law will expand the Alabama Public Service Commission from three members to seven and prohibit increases in electric retail base rates through 2029.
The Power to the People Act, enacted during the 2026 legislative session, originated as House Bill 475 and was...
CCPS receives Safe School Award for second year
CULLMAN, Ala. – Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall on Monday, April 6, visited Cullman City Primary School (CCPS) to present the 2025 Safe School Award and applaud the school’s ongoing commitment to safety and preparedness. CCPS is one of just nine schools to win the award, chosen from over...
Layton family purchases Trident Marina, expanding presence on Smith Lake
CULLMAN, Ala. - A familiar name in the Smith Lake marina business has expanded its footprint, with Lynn Layton and Jeff Layton recently purchasing Trident Marina from Jeff Tolbert.
The father-and-son duo acquired Duskin Point Marina in 2018 and now operate two full-service marinas on Lewis Smith Lake.
According to a statement shared by Duskin...
PREP SOFTBALL: West Point’s Jones no-hits Fairview, Benefield blanks Vinemont and Cold Springs’ offense explodes in Cullman County Tournament quarterfinals
VINEMONT, Ala. - The Cullman County Softball Tournament got underway at the Vinemont Sports Complex on Monday. The three quarterfinal matchups featured three shutouts, with West Point, Good Hope and Cold Springs moving on to the semifinals, which will be played tomorrow at 2...
Obituary: Anne R. Lovell
Anne R. Lovell, of Holly Pond, Alabama, was welcomed into Heaven on Saturday evening, April 4, 2026, at the age of 80. Mrs. Anne was born in St. Clair County, Alabama, on December 14, 1945, to the late John H. and Mae E. Owen...
Arrests and Incidents reported April 6, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported April 6, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
April 2
possession of drug paraphernalia; tampering with physical evidence; Hwy. 91
harassing communications; CR 1682
possession of...
Overton knocks out Tulsa, Auburn wins NIT Championship in overtime
INDIANAPOLIS – When Auburn had to have it, Kevin Overton came through.
KO knocked out Tulsa in the NIT championship game, hitting a game-tying 3-pointer with eight seconds left in regulation to send it to overtime, where Overton hit a 40-footer to lead Auburn to a 92-86 victory...
Alabama Audubon free bird-watching events
Alabama Audubon has several bird-watching events scheduled for 2026. Two free events will take place Saturday, April 11.
Birding at Vulcan Trail
The 2.2-mile Vulcan Trail is located at 1701 Valley View Dr., Birmingham, AL 35209. It passes by the Vulcan statue and museum. The event will take place from 7-11 a.m. Attendees should meet at precisely 7 a.m. beneath the Vulcan statue. Parking will be available...
Alabama Department of Mental Health recognizes Autism Acceptance Month
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Mental Health is recognizing April as Autism Acceptance Month, highlighting the importance of awareness, access to services and support for individuals and families across the state.
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, is a developmental condition that affects communication, behavior and social interaction.
According to...
Budget-friendly spring family activities
What better way to spend spring days than to have quality time with your spouse or partner and your littles? The days grow longer and energize us as sunshine blankets everything outside. The sweet aromas of spring thaw any remnants of winter so that we may emerge from its grasp anew.
Use this...
Letter to the Editor: I strongly encourage support for House Bill 389
To the Editor,
Domestic violence is not a distant issue – it is a daily reality in our community. I see firsthand the impact this has on individuals and families across our county.
Law enforcement in Cullman County responds to domestic-related calls regularly, many involving repeat offenders and escalating violence. One of the most dangerous moments for a victim is immediately after an offender is released from custody. We have seen cases where victims are re-assaulted within hours or days of that release. This is not hypothetical – it is happening here.
House Bill 389 addresses this exact problem. By strengthening bond conditions and allowing for temporary holding periods, this legislation targets the highest-risk window where retaliation and serious harm are most likely to occur.
This is not about being overly punitive. It is about being realistic and protecting victims during the most dangerous phase of these cases. Right...
Obituary: Beverly Lynette Johnson
Beverly Lynette Johnson, age 49 of Vinemont passed away on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Baptist Medical Center - Princeton. She was born, January 4, 1977, to Bernice William Page, Jr. and Linda Murry. She was preceded in death by her father and niece, Keona Page. Survivors include her mother; sister, Bridget Page; friend,...
Hanceville library hosting poetry contest
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - The Shirley Burden Public Library in Hanceville is currently hosting a free poetry contest. Submissions must be postmarked by April 24.
Library Manager Teresa Rivera said local teacher and published author Will Justice Drake will be judging the contest.
“Will Justice Drake will be judging the contest for us and we are very excited,” Rivera said. “The...
Editorial: The first thing I remember isn’t that she’s gone
Publisher’s note: Some stories aren’t about answers. This is one of them.
I don’t think about her death first. That’s what I didn’t expect.
It’s her smile.
That big, effortless smile that showed up before anything else did. The kind that didn’t ask for attention but took it anyway.
And her laugh. The kind that filled a room without...
Files from Yesteryear: April 4, 1963
From the files of April 4, 1963
HANCEVILLE NEWS
Rev. and Mrs. H. A. Harris and J. W. Davis spent the past Sunday in Mississippi visiting Mr. and Mrs. Joe Brown who entertained with a dinner honoring Mr. Davis on his birthday.
George Clapp was the Thursday...
