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...
William Evan Curtis
HOLLY POND - After 25 years on the job, many awards and a generation of loving former students, Luette Benefield has left behind a big pair of shoes to fill at Holly Pond High School (HPHS). A young man born about the time Benefield came to Holly Pond is stepping up to the plate.
William Evan Curtis is...
St. Bernard’s Joyce Nix, center, receives the Tourism Professional of the Year Award from John Hunt, left, and T.J. Franey, right, during Tuesday’s Tourism & Community Improvement Awards. Nix is the longtime director of the well-renowned Bloomin’ Festival. John Hunt, of TP Country Club, is the incoming tourism chair, and Franey, of Cullman County Schools, is the 2016-17 tourism...
A local citizen scores well with her .45 revolver as Sgt. David Nunn looks on.
CULLMAN - For two days during the last week, the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) offered a free firearms safety and marksmanship class for local citizens. On Tuesday evening, deputies conducted a classroom session, followed by live fire exercises at the CCSO firing range Saturday...
HANCEVILLE - On Thursday afternoon, the North Alabama Regional Council of Governments (NARCOG) and Main Street Alabama will be holding a special meeting in Hanceville to talk about plans for city development. Both organizations help municipalities with long-term economic planning and development.
On Monday, NARCOG released the following invitation:
“The community is invited to attend a meeting to learn about the...
Curt Wilson
CULLMAN - Ashley Wilson, the mother of Cullman High School student Curtis James Wilson, 15, who died May 7 as a result of injuries sustained in a car wreck that same evening, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Bradford Neal Meeks, 27, of Cullman, the driver of the car that collided head-on with the Wilsons' vehicle. Additionally, the...
Congratulations to Saint Bernard Prep School’s Andrew Sweeney for being selected to compete in the North-South All-Star cross country race to be held in Montgomery on July 19. It is the first year that cross country will be a part of the annual All-Star Sports Week Competition.
Sweeney is one of only 20 high school juniors from across the state...
Vinemont High School Principal Ferrell Runge, CCBOE Superintendent Shane Barnette, VHS Salutatorian Alex Millwood, VHS Valedictorian Landen Ballew and CCBOE member Mike Graves
CULLMAN - It was standing room only at the Cullman County Board of Education Monday evening, as the board recognized the achievements of students from all county high schools.
2017 valedictorians and salutatorians
Cold Springs: Jesse Lee, valedictorian; Tucker...
Pictured L-R: Lioness Judy Waldrep (board of directors), Lioness Mary Daniel (2nd vice president), Mayor Woody Jacobs, Lioness Jane Rooker (president) and Lioness Penny Burkett (treasurer)
CULLMAN - Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs recently presented members of the Cullman Lioness Club with a certificate honoring the club for its 40th anniversary. Lionesses on hand to receive the certificate from Jacobs were...
BREMEN - Spring football at Cold Springs was to be concluded last Friday with a jamboree game at Holly Pond. That changed after the death of senior Nicholas Johnson on May 18. Johnson sustained injuries in a car wreck on County Road 222 May 12. He passed away two days prior to the school's graduation ceremony.
Administrators and coaches from...
MONTGOMERY – Alabama Department of Labor Sec. Fitzgerald Washington announced Friday that Alabama’s preliminary, seasonally adjusted April unemployment rate is 5.4 percent, down from March’s rate of 5.8 percent, and well below April 2016’s rate of 5.8 percent. Cullman County maintains the state’s third-lowest rate, at 3.7 percent, down substantially from March’s rate of 4.5 percent.
April’s statewide rate represents...
Ally Grund and Aaron Moyland
FAIRVIEW - If you want classical theater in this part of the country, there’s no place like the Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ASF) in Montgomery. For two Fairview High School seniors, it is their immediate post-graduation destination.
After auditions at four locations around the state, and a callback to the ASF headquarters in Montgomery, Aaron Moyland and...
Graduation will be on Sunday, May 21 at 4 p.m. at Tom Drake Coliseum on the campus of Wallace State.
“I want to wish all the Classes of 2017 the best of luck. You are moving on to your next milestone in life. It is my wish that all your hopes and dreams come true. I encourage you to make...
Graduation will be on Sunday, May 21 at 2 p.m. at Tom Drake Coliseum on the campus of Wallace State.
“Congratulations to the senior class of 2017. I want to personally wish you the best in the future as you begin a new chapter in life. Never lose sight of your dreams and always work to do your best in...
Cullman Christian School held its graduation on Thursday, May 18 at Christ Covenant Presbyterian Church.
“Congratulations to Hope and Abby on their graduation from Cullman Christian School. These two young ladies have been a blessing to our school. As they start the next season in their lives I want to encourage them to seek God first in all they do....
The Cullman County Child Development Center held its graduation ceremony on Thursday, May 18 in the CDC gym.
“The day of graduation marks a special time of completion and beginning in a person's life. The CDC graduates, parents, CDC faculty and staff should feel a sense of great pride and take time to enjoy this time. So many people have...
Graduation will be on Saturday, May 20 at 6 p.m., at Tom Drake Coliseum on the campus of Wallace State.
“It is hard to believe that we have almost completed another year. The graduating class of 2017 is special in many different ways. The most special part of this class is their character and commitment to success. It has been...
Graduation will be on Saturday, May 20 at 4 p.m., at Tom Drake Coliseum on the campus of Wallace State.
“I would to take this opportunity to congratulate the 2017 graduating class of Holly Pond High School. You have worked hard and accomplished many great things over the past 13 years. You have excelled in the classroom and in your...
Graduation will be on Saturday, May 20 at 2 p.m., at Tom Drake Coliseum on the campus of Wallace State.
“I want to wish the senior class from Good Hope High School the best of luck as they graduate and move into their college and adult lives. I hope they never look back with longing and regret but look ahead...
Graduation will be on Saturday, May 20 at noon, at Tom Drake Coliseum on the campus of Wallace State.
“Congratulations Cold Springs High School Class of 2017 graduates – You made it! I want to express my congratulations to each member of the 2017 graduating class on successfully completing an important milestone in what will be just one of many...
Graduation will be on Saturday, May 20 at 10 a.m., at Tom Drake Coliseum on the campus of Wallace State.
“To the graduating class of 2017, your accomplishments and success are felt by those who are following you. The faculty of Hanceville High School is very proud of each of you and wish future success in your next step of...
Dayden Floyd, wearing Bronco green, was honored for saving the life of a young child at Lake Guntersville on Mother’s Day. Image courtesy of WBRC FOX6 News.
HOLLY POND - The word "courage" can mean different things to different people. For some, it means doing something difficult or frightening despite being afraid, like a super hero coming to save the...
CULLMAN - As a way to bring the community together, the Cullman Police Department (CPD) worked with Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry (CCFD) to hold a free cookout for Cullman residents on Friday. Members of the CPD and CCFD say they hope to make sure this an annual event. This year's cookout drew a larger crowd than expected, as...
Update 5/19/17 9:10 p.m.
According to Cullman Fire Rescue's Brian Bradberry, the fire involved an RV, and the fire is out at this time. Bradberry says three people were transported to an area hospital with injuries.
"The condition of the burn victims is unknown at this time," said Bradberry.
CULLMAN - A vehicle fire at 113 Lincoln Ave. SW, west of the...
Photo of Nick Johnson's empty chair at Cold Springs High School's awards day./Image provided by family.
Editor's note: Edited to update time of passing and add mother's name.
CULLMAN COUNTY – Cold Springs senior Nick Johnson, 18, passed away midday yesterday, May 18, at UAB Hospital, according to family. Johnson, of Crane HIll, was involved in a single-vehicle car wreck on May 12 on County...
CULLMAN - A local doctor was arrested for shoplifting recently, according to reports from the Cullman Police Department. Mir Kwon Wu Varquez, 59, was arrested on May 10 and charged with fourth-degree theft of property/shoplifting, a Class A misdemeanor.
Police Chief Kenny Culpepper says the incident occurred at the Wal-Mart store on Highway 157.
Varquez is a cardiologist at Cullman Heart & Urgent...
Nurse Aide students pictured: (front row left to right) Amber Rodgers, Cassity Humes, Sydney Dodson, Diana Tepetate and Allie Mooney. (back row left to right) Emily James, Braelynn Echelbarger, Lexus White and Fancie Boatright.
The following article was submitted by the Cullman County Board of Education's Dr. TJ Franey and is being run in its entirety.
CULLMAN - The Cullman Area Technology Academy (CATA) Health Science program provides high school...
Nathaniel Butler (left), Lucy Michaus Chavez, and Amy Hill, are three of several graduates of the Class of 2017 from Wallace State Community College’s Child Development program, the first cohort to complete the new online format of the program.
HANCEVILLE — The 2017 graduating class at Wallace State Community College included the first students to take advantage of the new online...
Leadership Graduation (pictured above)
The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2016-17 Leadership Cullman County class, sponsored by The Final Touch, celebrated its graduation Tuesday, May 9 at TP Country Club.
Pictured, from left to right, are Eric Ponder, Rehau; Brian Dove, Cullman-Jefferson Counties Gas District; Rev. Raul Dominguez, First United Methodist Church; Magan Bartlett, Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce; Jennifer Taylor, Congressman...
BREMEN - Two people lost their lives this morning in a fiery crash in the 500 block of County Road 109 near Bremen.
State troopers say the wreck happened at approximately 9:10 a.m., when a single vehicle left the roadway, struck a tree and burned. There were two occupants inside.
Cullman County Coroner Jeremy L. Kilpatrick confirmed there were two fatalities....
Photo of Nick Johnson's empty chair at Cold Springs High School's awards day./Image provided by family.
CULLMAN COUNTY - At what is supposed to be a joyous time in the life of a high school senior, friends and family of Nick Johnson, 18, of Crane Hill, who was slated to graduate this weekend from Cold Springs High School, are instead...
CULLMAN - As the summer season picks up and schools let out, the rivers and lakes around the county will fill up with swimmers and boats. It is a hot-weather tradition to cool off in the water. However, a major danger that seemingly goes under-reported each year is electric shock drowning (ESD).
“Electric shock drowning is a significant problem and...
Col. Ken Brown, president of the Cullman chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) presented the SAR Bronze Medal of Achievement to JROTC Cadet Staci Prater of West Point at Tuesday's graduation ceremony for students of the Cullman Area Technology Academy in Vinemont. The award recognizes her outstanding leadership qualities and military bearing.
To submit a community note,...
The West Point Town Council discusses development projects at this week's meeting.
WEST POINT - With plans to increase housing in the area to accommodate new businesses and residents, West Point's Town Council sat down for a lengthy discussion this week about the possible development of a new subdivision. From the Cullman Association of Realtors, Beverly Hinkle and Realtor Scott...
CULLMAN - Following a recent undercover operation led by Cullman City Police Department (CPD) Investigator Justin Craft, Daniel Reece Mann, 27, of Addison was arrested and charged with trafficking in illegal drugs.
The operation took place in the city of Cullman, where Craft was assisted by Investigators Becky Boyd and Scott Sanford, Patrol Sgt. Chris Thomason, Officer Trey Higginbotham and...
Kenneth Loyd Woods, left and Joshua Dwayne Aker, right
CULLMAN COUNTY - Two Cullman County men were arrested in the past week in unrelated incidences for multiple sex offenses. Kenneth Loyd Woods, 49, of Fairview was arrested and charged with second-degree rape, two counts of electronic solicitation of a child and two counts of transmitting obscene material to a child....
Cullman City School Board Superintendent Dr. Susan Patterson and members of the board listen as Mayor Woody Jacobs speaks.
CULLMAN - The Cullman City Council and Cullman City School Board held a joint, informal round table discussion Monday about several shared concerns, including traffic congestion and annexation. It was not a policy-making session for either body, rather an opportunity for...
Update 5-16-17 10:18 a.m.
Everyday activities have resumed at the Cullman County Courthouse, according to Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry, who says the building is secure following this morning's bomb threat and evacuation.
"We received a call around 9 a.m. this morning about someone blowing up the courthouse," said Gentry. "We responded, along with the Cullman City Police, Cullman County...
Peggy Smith, left, and Dale Greer/Images courtesy of Cullman Economic Development
CULLMAN - The Cullman City Council on Monday evening announced the retirement of Peggy Smith, longtime director of the Cullman Economic Development Agency (CEDA). Smith, who has served in the position for more than 30 years, will retire effective June 1. She announced her retirement in the work session...
Helen Duke/Image provided by family
GOOD HOPE - State Trooper and Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Public Information Officer Curtis Summerville late Monday afternoon said the agency still has no definite description of the vehicle that struck and killed Helen Virginia Duke, 75 on Sunday. "We have no idea of the make, model or color," he said. "All we know...
Dr. Lee Walton, philosophy and religion instructor, is presented the Most Likely to be a Stand-Up Comic award by Phi Theta Kappa member Angela Mernetti during the club’s WSCC Faculty Awards presentation.
HANCEVILLE - Members of the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Alpha Chi Tau chapter at Wallace State Community College recently treated faculty members to breakfast and an awards ceremony...
CULLMAN - Former Cullman County Commission Chairman James Graves, arrested and charged Wednesday, May 10 with felony first-degree sexual abuse of a minor, has made bond. Cullman County Circuit Clerk Lisa McSwain confirmed Monday morning that Graves bonded out on Friday. His bond was $15,000 cash. McSwain says Graves's preliminary hearing has been set for May 22 at 9...
CULLMAN - The Cullman Police Department is hosting a community cookout this Friday, May 19 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Festhalle downtown. The cookout, sponsored by Cullman Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, is free and everyone is welcome.
Cullman Police Sgt. Adam Clark is one of the organizers of the event and is excited to reinstate something he hopes will...
Danny McAfee, left, shares a laugh with Dyron's Lowcountry Chef Randall Baldwin, right. Dyron Powell, owner of Dyron's Lowcountry, is shown in the background chatting with guest Billy Troutman.
CULLMAN - Once again Cullman has shown its true colors, and they don’t run in the rain. This year’s Dinner on First event was moved into a long unused warehouse on...
Updated 5-14-17 8:10 p.m.
State Trooper Curtis Summerville has released an official statement on today's fatal hit-and-run incident. See his statement in full below:
"A single-vehicle crash today, May 14, has left a pedestrian dead. Helen Virginia Duke, 75, of Cullman was killed when she was struck by an unknown vehicle which fled the scene. Troopers were notified of the crash...
First-place team, The Tennessee Valley Elite, l-r: Joey Franklin, Chase Prater, Jake Guthrie, Tucker Adkison and Jackson Tucker
CULLMAN - The fourth annual Nicholas Fillinger Memorial Run was held Saturday morning on the campus of St. Bernard Preparatory School. Many friends, family and community members gathered at the school to honor Nicholas’s memory in the best way possible, by running....
Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics, left, with academic scholarship recipients Lexi Byrd and Jarrett Sherrill
HANCEVILLE - Area students awarded scholarships by Wallace State Community College in Hanceville were recognized during a ceremony on campus recently.
“We want to express our gratitude to you for choosing Wallace State,” said Wallace State President Dr. Vicki Karolewics. “You’re so great you could go...
The first two runners to cross the finish line
CULLMAN - Mile and 5K runs are a popular pastime, especially as the weather heats up. Many local organizations hold these runs as fundraisers or methods of bringing awareness to a cause, while others hold them simply because they want to provide people with some fun. Around town, they range from...
Respiratory Therapy graduates Anna Ivey and Emma Moore wave to the crowd during commencement exercises Friday at Wallace State Community College.
HANCEVILLE - Wallace State Community College in Hanceville and President Dr. Vicki Karolewics celebrated the college’s 51st anniversary commencement at Tom Drake Coliseum Friday. More than 500 students participated in the ceremony while nearly 1,300 earned degrees or certificates...
VINEMONT - A short agenda doesn't necessarily mean little discussion. Such was the case at this week’s Vinemont Town Council meeting, when council members put considerable thought and deliberation into matters regarding the upkeep and general maintenance of the town's ball park and roads.
The only item discussed under new business was lighting at the ball park. Nine light installations...
GOOD HOPE - As a way of protecting its citizens from scams and con artists, the Good Hope City Council will be considering ordinances for door-to-door sales. The discussion was put on the table after a quick and efficient series of council member reports at this week’s meeting. Councilman John Harris had nothing to report since the financials were...
Debbie Matthews recently announced her retirement from the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center. During Debbie’s 10 years at the Chamber, she has served as receptionist and executive assistant to the president. Before joining the Chamber staff, Debbie wrote a number of novels and worked for the State of Alabama and Cullman Economic Development Agency. She plans to...
Students in the Agriculture/Horticulture Production program at Wallace State Community College plant flowers in a median on the college campus.
HANCEVILLE - Students in Wallace State’s Agriculture and Horticulture program put lessons to work recently as they spruced up campus, clearing up plant beds and planting flowers.
The students spread out across campus, working in flower beds at the library, around...
Councilwomen Kim Brown and Sharon Porter were out Thursday evening.
HANCEVILLE - At its regular meeting Thursday evening, the Hanceville City Council voted to allow incoming automotive instrument and gauge manufacturer Met-South a tax abatement expected to total approximately $400,000. Stanley Kennedy of the Cullman Economic Development Agency advised the council, and presented the paperwork that would bring the abatement...
Councilwoman Myra Twitty (center) poses for her last photo as a member of the Colony Town Council with Clerk Patricia Ponder, Curtis Johnson, Mayor Donnis Leeth and Jamelle Dimbo.
COLONY - At its regular meeting this week, the Colony Town Council received the resignation of Councilwoman Myra Twitty.
The parting was not over any conflict. With her granddaughter by her side,...
CULLMAN - The investigation continues into the fatal car crash that claimed the life of Cullman High School student and athlete Curtis James Wilson,15, Sunday evening. A report from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) on Monday stated, "Although the circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation, preliminary investigation indicates alcohol may have been a factor in the...
FAIRVIEW - Like many school-sponsored clubs and organizations this time of year, Fairview High School's Theatre Works is drawing the curtains on its performances until school starts back. The group’s latest was meant to be an incredible double-performance of “The Wizard of Oz” by the middle school and “Jerry Finnegan's Sister” by the high school; however, unfortunate circumstances prevented...
Revised map of proposed Berlin town limits
BERLIN - The movement to incorporate the Berlin community into a town now faces a deadline: Friday, June 9. After that day, signatures will no longer be accepted for the incorporation petition. The effort will then move toward setting up a special election in the fall.
According to Patrick Bates, who heads up the...
Katie Speer (left) with Assistant Vice President for Athletics Marsha Ford
MARION - Three Cullman-area students were recognized at Judson College’s recent Honors Convocation. The ceremony honored students who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in academics and in service at the college.
Freshman Jordan Hooks of Cullman received the Outstanding Student in 100-Level Spanish Award.
Senior Katie Owens of Hanceville was...
2017 Foundation Scholarship recipients, along with recipients from 2015-16. Back L-R: 2016 recipient Marissa Woodall, 2016 recipient Kayley Fortner, Tristan Stancil, Emily James, Blake Driver, Alex Hernandez, Tanner Duke
Front L-R: Maggie Stewart, Dawson Foust, 2015 recipient and speaker Lauren James, Ross Crocker, Shelby Lynn
CULLMAN - The Cullman Savings Bank Foundation on Wednesday presented scholarships to selected area students during...
Vinemont senior Seth Campbell presents Good Samaritan’s Jolanda Hutson a check for $453.
VINEMONT - On Wednesday morning, the Vinemont High School (VHS) Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) welcomed Jolanda Hutson of Cullman’s Good Samaritan Clinic, and presented her with a check for $453 raised at recent fundraising events, including a “hat day” at the school and a car wash. ...
James Graves
CULLMAN – The Cullman County Republican Party announced Wednesday afternoon that its executive committee has voted to remove James Graves from its ranks. The move by the county GOP follows Graves’s arrest Wednesday morning. According to the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), Graves was arrested and charged with first-degree sexual abuse. The charge is a felony.
Graves, 74, is...
CULLMAN COUNTY - Former Cullman County Commission Chairman James Donald Graves, 74, of Vinemont, has been arrested and charged with first-degree sexual abuse after allegedly molesting a minor. The charge is a felony.
Graves was elected Chairman of the Cullman County Commission in 2008 and served until he was defeated by current Chairman Kenneth Walker in 2012.
According the Cullman County...
Kenya Relief Founder Steve James to be honored with Distinguished Alumni Award
HANCEVILLE - Wallace State Community College and its president Dr. Vicki Karolewics will host commencement exercises on Friday, May 12, 2017, at Tom Drake Coliseum, starting at 6 p.m. More than 500 students are expected to participate in the ceremony, with nearly 1,300 earning degrees and certificates as...
Image by Soulful Snaps & Leslie Dyer- Last year’s Dinner on First
CULLMAN - On Friday evening, May 12, the Cullman City Parks and Recreation (CP&R) Foundation will set a table for 300. The event, Dinner on First, was to be outdoors along First Avenue in the Warehouse District; however, Mother Nature had different plans. Due to the threat of...
Tribune File Photo/ Sheriff Matt Gentry addresses participants in last June's citizens' firearms safety class.
CULLMAN - The Cullman County Sheriff's Office will be hosting a citizens’ firearms safety class Tuesday, May 16 at 6 p.m. at Cullman City Hall.
The class will focus on how to safely handle a weapon, the proper technique for shooting a weapon, cleaning a weapon...
CULLMAN - Visitation and funeral arrangements for Curtis Wilson were announced today. Wilson, a 15-year-old student at Cullman High School, tragically lost his life Sunday evening in an automobile crash. CHS Principal Kim Hall announced Wilson's arrangements in her weekly newsletter.
Arrangements are as follows:
Curtis Wilson Arrangements
Daystar Church
Viewing: Wednesday, May 10, 2017 from 4-7 p.m. (Friends)
Funeral: 7 p.m.
Said Hall in...
Cindy and Jim Walker pose for a photo with Little Big Town’s Jimi Westbrook, center, an alumnus of Wallace State College and former performer in Walker’s Wallace State Singers. Walker was invited by the Country Music Association Foundation’s Music Teachers of Excellence event hosted by Little Town.
HANCEVILLE - Dr. Jim Walker, the first director of music programs at Wallace...
CULLMAN - The Cullman City Council on Monday approved an amendment to its current alcohol ordinance that will allow multiple vendors to sell alcoholic beverages under the same roof. This paves the way for beverage sales at developer Shane Quick’s new project, Mae’s Food Hall, and other similar establishments that may come in the future.
The amendment defines a food...
Wallace State Community College Diagnostic Imaging students Kevin Matanich, left, Ashley Butler, Whitney Gregg, and Loren Gilliam earned second place in the quiz bowl competition at the 70th annual meeting of the Alabama Society of Radiologic Technologists (ALSRT) held recently in Tuscaloosa.
HANCEVILLE - Students in Wallace State Community College’s Diagnostic Imaging program represented the college well when they attended...
CULLMAN COUNTY - The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) arrested a Holly Pond woman for trafficking on Friday. It was the second trafficking arrest for the CCSO in as many days.
Agents with the Cullman Narcotics Enforcement Team (CNET) arrested Stephanie Renae Williams, 40, following a traffic stop at the intersection of Alabama Highway 69 N and County Road 1693.
Williams...
CULLMAN - Alabama State Trooper Curtis Summerville said this afternoon that although the circumstances surrounding the crash that killed 15-year-old Curt Wilson Sunday evening are still under investigation, the preliminary investigation indicates alcohol may have been a factor.
Wilson died at Children's of Alabama after being transported by helicopter from the scene of the wreck, which occurred just after 6...
CULLMAN - Traditions Bank of Cullman has set up a fund for the family of Curt Wilson, the Cullman High School student who was killed in an automobile crash Sunday evening. Donations to the Curt Wilson Memorial Fund may be made at any Traditions branch. CHS Principal Kim Hall announced the fund on Facebook.
Wilson died at Children's of Alabama...
CULLMAN - Nominations for Cullman's 2017 Beautification Awards are due by 5 p.m. this Friday, May 12, according to Cullman County Economic Development Director Cherrie Haney. Click here to access the nomination form.
On June 22, Cullman County People Against a Littered State (PALS) will host an awards luncheon at Camp Meadowbrook, starting at 11:30 a.m., at which it will...
Stock image: eatseehear.com
FAIRVIEW - The Fairview Lions Club continues its commitment to family-friendly community activities at Fairview Park with a free outdoor movie night this month and next.
For the month of May, the movie will be “Trolls.” On May 13, at 7:30 p.m., families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy the show. Admission is free,...
Beginning in August, Mrs. Cathi Bradford, Hanceville Middle School’s sixth-grade English teacher, reintroduced and began reinforcing cursive writing with her sixth-grade students.
Students are taught the three Ps of penmanship: pencil position, paper position and posture. Following these foundational basics, students learn the “why” behind cursive to make it relevant in their lives. This year, this practice culminated in a...
GOOD HOPE - A head-on collision Sunday claimed the life of a Cullman High School student. Curtis James Wilson, 15, died at Children's of Alabama after being transported by helicopter from the scene of the wreck, which occurred just after 6 p.m. in the 2000 block of County Road 222 in front of Van's Sporting Goods. Cullman County Coroner...
GOOD HOPE - One person has died following a head-on collision this evening in the 2000 block of County Road 222 in front of Van's Sporting Goods. The victim is a minor, and was transported to Children's of Alabama where he has since passed away, according to Cullman County Coroner Jeremy L. Kilpatrick.
The incident happened shortly after 6 p.m....
UPDATE: 8:40 p.m. County Road 222 is now open.
GOOD HOPE - A two-car collision on County Road 222 in front of Van's Sporting Goods has resulted in injuries, and the road is temporarily shut down. Motorists should avoid the area.
The Cullman County Sheriff's Office is advising drivers to detour if possible.
No information has been released on the identities of...
Crowds filled Depot Park, the Festhalle and all the space between.
CULLMAN - Whatever evil the weather did to day one of the 2017 Strawberry Festival, it more than made up for on day two. Where Friday was cold, windy and rainy, Saturday saw bright sunshine and temperatures in the 70s, with just enough breeze to keep everyone cooled off.
When...
CULLMAN - With colder temperatures and light to moderate rain, Friday was a less than ideal day for outdoor events. The show went on, however, at the Cullman County Fairgrounds where the American Cancer Society's annual Relay For Life event went on well into the evening. The event started off on a good note with a $17,200 donation from...
Cameron Kretzschmar with his demonstration of the power of air pressure
CULLMAN - Cullman Christian School (CCS) held its first-ever science fair recently, in the gym at Seventh Street Baptist Church, which currently houses the school. Three judges, Stacey Smith of CCS, Beth Williams of Wallace State and Mary Hovater from NASA reviewed 23 entries to choose one winner from...
