The Sports Ledger

INSIDE E-EDITION: Vantage Bank Opens in Crossville God Bless America

July 17, 2014 • Volume 3 Issue 25 • Home Owned & Operated • North Alabama E-Edition • www.thesportsledger.com

THE LEDGER, Brandon K. Pierce

DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris has reported the arrest of several individuals on a variety of drug charges.

On July 7, 2014 Drug Task Force agents executed a search warrant in Fort Payne and arrested Bobby Ray Jackson, age 42 of Fort Payne, and Tina Hodge, age 45 of Fort Payne.

Jackson and Hodge are charged with Trafficking in Methamphetamine after agents seized an ounce of meth during the search warrant. Jackson is also charged with 5 counts of Unlawful Distribution of

Bobby Ray Jackson

Tina Hodge

Controlled Substance and Hodge has 1 count of Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance related to this investigation Agents executed a second

search at another residence in Fort Payne and arrested 5 individuals for drug charges.

To find out who else was arrested see the inside of today’s 12 page E-Edition.

Police Chief Speaks to Civitan Club Police Chief Charles Centers was the guest speaker for the Rainsville Civitan Club on Monday, July 14. Centers spoke to the club about ways that the Rainsville Police Department is helping the community, including how they are keeping local citizens informed. He said one way was through the department’s Facebook Page. Centers also spoke about the Fourth annual Youth in the Park Day, which is set for Saturday, August 16, 2014 from noon until 3 p.m. The civitan club voted to support the event with a $100 donation.

Centers is pictured with Club President Brent Satterfield and Caraly Foreman.

The Snead State Lady Parsons will host a hitting camp on Aug. 16 from 9 a.m. – Noon at the Snead State softball field. The camp includes a warm-up routine with Snead State players, station hitting drills, video analysis, live hitting on the field and instruction on proper hitting techniques. The camp involves all aspects of hitting, including mental and physical aspects in the batter’s box. Hitters will be placed in groups according to age – 12 and under and 13-18. The deadline to register is Aug. 16. For more information, please contact Coach Grindrod at tracy.grindrod@snead.edu or call 256-990-1943.

Phone: 256-506-7368 Fax: 256-528-2543

BREAKING NEWS, EVENTS, & PHOTOS If you see breaking news E-mail address: thesportsledger@gmail.com happening or have an event, photo or a community Mailing Address announcement email or call PO Box 175 us at 256-506-7368.

Albertville, AL 35962 COMMENTS OR Shipping Address LETTERS TO EDITOR 1458 County Road 21 Comments or Letters to the Crossville, AL 35962 Editor can be mailed, faxed, or emailed. Please include Like us on your full name, address and phone numbers. All letters Follow us on must be signed and may Twitter at be edited to fit available SportsLedger space.

Web site FREE COMMUNITY www.thesportsledger.com ANNOUNCEMENTS Online E-Edition Subscriptions are now available for only $25 per year. To read the E-edition visit us online at www.thesportsledger.com The Sports Ledger was established in 2006 by Publisher Brandon K. Pierce

To have your nonprofit group’s event info placed in The Ledger, submit the information by fax at 256-528-2543 or email thesportsledger@gmail.com MEMBERSHIPS The Sports Ledger is a member of the Boaz, and Fort Payne Chambers of Commerce, The Rainsville Civitans, and the Alabama Press Association.

ADVERTISING The Sports Ledger’s Advertising Department can provide you with a large variety of low cost options to achieve your marketing goals. For more information please contact Publisher Brandon K. Pierce at 256-506-7368 or email thesportsledger@gmail.com

PUBLISHER’S NOTE ABOUT CRIME REPORT All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The crime and arrest reports are only the records of persons arrested and in no way implies that the persons listed as arrested are guilty of the offenses charged.

After much thought and prayer and after much consultation with Athletics Director Bill Battle and our President, Dr. Judy Bonner, I have decided to step down from the only job I have ever known since graduating from college.

Though I haven't shared my physical problems outside my family and a few close friends, they have degenerated to a point where I will have multiple surgeries over the coming year. While, not life threatening, things have progressed to the point where my physicians have mandated that I have both knees replaced and they have estimated that it will be over a year until I am fully recovered.

I will have the first surgery after we receive our 2014 SEC championship rings at the Southern Miss football game and celebrate an amazing season with that team. I will have the second surgery in the spring after recovery from the first surgery.

I would like to thank Coach Battle and President Bonner for offering me the opportunity to take a complete year of medical leave and to then return to coaching. But David and I came to the conclusion that having a staff that changes multiple times in a significant way over a two-year span is not in the best interest of our gymnasts or the continued success of our program.

Coaching is a 24/7 job that requires being at our best on a daily basis. I know myself well and I need to put my health first and foremost for the quality of my life in the future and I do not feel that I can do that and give my best as a coach.

I am grateful that for 36 years, David and I were able to implement our coaching philosophy of trying to develop well-rounded young women who are ready to make a difference in the lives of others upon their graduation from this University.

I would like to share how blessed David and I have been with the unconditional love and support of our daughters Jessie and Jordan throughout our career and this decision. They - along with our son-in-law Brett - have been our biggest fans and together we have all shared our love for this University and the amazing experiences that we have had.

This is not a joyous time for David and I as we step away from jobs that we have loved every day along the way, but I know it is the right decision for us personally, as well as it being the best decision for the long-term success of the gymnastics program. I want to thank Coach Bryant for taking a chance on a 22-year-old graduate of Slippery Rock State College and hiring me for the best coaching job in the country.

I want to express my appreciation and fond remembrances of Mal Moore for his support, and the overall vision he had for this department, and for hiring the coaches that have helped turn that vision into the championship program we enjoy as a department today.

Our current Athletic Director Bill Battle is one of the best leaders I have ever worked with and his vision will continue to give our department the opportunity to compete at the highest levels.

To Dr. Judy Bonner: One of the highlights of my career, and one of the very few times I was ever late to practice, was standing in the back of the room when you were announced as our president. I felt like at that point, I could go back to our ladies and tell them that at the University of Alabama, you could truly be whatever you wanted, even president.

I also need to thank Marie Robbins, a member of our first championship team in 1988 and now an associate athletics director and our senior woman administrator. From your first moments on campus, through this latest decision – your guidance, counsel and unwavering support have meant the world to us. I can’t imagine how we would have managed without you.

I would like to give a heartfelt thank you to our staff and coaches, both past and present. Each one of you made a difference for our program, in the earliest days right through to the present moment, words can’t express how grateful we are for everything along the way.

And more than anyone, I want to thank our ladies. From our first class, who took a chance on us when we began this journey and then took us to the national championships as seniors, to the freshmen of 2014 … you are all a part of our championship legacy, all a part of the tradition of excellence that this program has highlighted for the last 36 years. You are all in our hearts and we can’t begin to express what it has meant to us to continue to be a part of your lives.

While we close this chapter on our careers, this is not the end of the story. I am very much looking forward to the future and continuing as a part of the Alabama family, the Tuscaloosa community and the sport we love so much as a member of the NCAA Gymnastics Committee.

Thanks to everyone for their support over the many years and of course, Roll Tide!

University of Alabama Gymnastics Coach Sarah Patterson

THE LEDGER, Brandon K. Pierce

Vantage Bank Celebrates Grand Opening of Crossville Branch

Vantage Bank held a ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration for its new Crossville branch, which opened this past May. The bank is locally owned and operated. Some of those attending Vantage Bank’s celebration were: (L-R) Danny Thrash, Director; Susan Armstrong, Vice President; Benny Fraiser, Director; James Easterling, Assistant Vice President; Bennie Clayton, Vice President and Branch Manager, Jeff Simpson, Crossville Town Council, Roger “Dino” Richards, Crossville Mayor; Lowell Galloway, Vantage Bank President & CEO; Myra W. Pierce, Executive Vice President, CFO/COO, Beverly Robinson Crossville Town Council; Vicky Stone, Crossville Town Council; Laura Casey, Director; Frank McDaniel, Director; and John Weathers, Director.

Advertising Correspondent • Marla Jones

By Carol Beddingfield Executive Director The second Mentone festival of 2014, JulyFest, will be held on Saturday, July 19th at Mason Park.

The two day event will begin with pet parade registration at 9:30 a.m. The judging for the many pet awards will begin with the parade at 10 a.m..

A silent auction, pet photographs, and dog adoption will be available at 11 a.m.

All proceeds will benefit the Humane Society and Animal Resources of DeKalb County.

Fifty artists and craftspeople will showcase their talents in oil paintings, pastels, watercolors, photography, sculptures, wood art, rustic furniture, pottery basketry, jewelry, and many other forms of artistry.

Live entertainment will also begin at 10 a.m. I encourage you to join Terry Hutchinson at 5 p.m. at the Mentone Inn while you indulge in the best barbeque served by Ol Tymer’s of Fort Payne.

The cost is $10.00 which includes the performance at 7:30 p.m. by Jess Goggans and the Magnetics.

The festival continues on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Admission is free to the festival. Rain date is scheduled for July 26 and 27.

I congratulate Mayor Rob Hammond, the Mentone Town Council and the Mentone Area Arts Council for their dedication to the success of the JulyFest.

I always enjoy this summer festival on Lookout Mountain.

Geraldine Picnic in the Park After you visit JulyFest, you should attend the Alabama Picnic in the Park at Geraldine Park.

A cruise in car show will begin at 10 a.m.. Menu items will include pinto beans and cornbread and BBQ chicken plates.

Door prizes will be presented.

Three on a String will perform at Noon.

This comedy musical act is a hit with all ages.

Fort Payne Third Saturday For all you antique car lovers, stop by the Third Saturday Sunset downtown Fort Payne also on July 19th.

James Best, comedian and star of Dukes of Hazard, will perform at the DeKalb Theatre at 2 p.m. Big Foot will also make a second appearance at the Rotary Pavilion.

Live entertainment will include Chris Robert’s School of Music students, Kathy Prater, The Willie Underwood Family, and Jeff Young and Hayden.

The “Princess for a Day” race car and the Miss Teen Motor Speedway will be available during the event.

Fun and family friendly activities will continue throughout the summer.

Call the Fort Payne Chamber of Commerce at 256-845-2741. We will be glad to place your event on the Chamber’s calendar.

The Corner Stone Market Naturopathic Dr. Appointments and Essential Oils by the ounce available.

“We Got What You Need!

I think there is much confusion among even believers concerning the division between the Old Testament and the New Testament. Part of this confusion revolves around the words in the fly leaves of our Bibles that say, “New Testament”. Even though men meant well by adding these words to the inspired Scriptures, they still may confuse some people. I am saying that the new testament, or covenant, does not begin with Matthew 1:1, nor do the other gospels begin with the new testament. The actual new testament, meaning also a covenant or an agreement, does not begin until after Jesus’ death.

So, we would have to say that the new testament begins with the death and resurrection of Christ, which is not recorded until Matthew chapters 27-28; Mark chapters 15-16; Luke chapters 23-24 and John chapters 19-20. This means that many things that were taught and practiced in the earlier parts of these books were really “Old Testament teaching”. When Jesus told a healed leper to “go and offer the gift that Moses commanded for a testimony unto them”, He was teaching Old Testament truth (see Matthew 8:4). We are not being commanded to do such in our day, yet many people look at everything taught in the four gospels as being for church practice in our

day. This is why some denominations are confused on sabbath keeping, which is never commanded for the church. We observe the first day of the week, the day on which Jesus arose.

Now we will look at Hebrews 9:16-17 for clear teaching on when the New Testament actually began: “For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.” We speak of “the last will and testament” of men, a means by which men leave their possessions to those whom they choose. Such wills are of absolutely no strength as long as the maker of the will is still living.

This is exactly the same thing that God is saying in our verses above; Jesus had to die, before the new testament became effective, so the old testament was still in force, until Jesus died! Those of us who teach the Bible need to pay close attention to this truth, for it will help us to rightly divide the word of truth! By the way, the old covenant lost its power when the new covenant was ratified by Jesus’ death, so that we are not under the laws of the Old Testament (Hebrews 8:13).

Arrests range from Meth, Cocaine and Marijuana _Continued from Page 1 Joshua Smith, age 37 of Fort Payne and Penny Glasscox, age 42 of Fort Payne are charged with conspiracy to commit a drug crime. Nick Johnson, age 24 of Valley Head, Judy Doss, age 51 of Fort Payne, and Jessica Marie Hearn, age 23 of Fort Payne are charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after meth was discovered at the residence.

On July 10 drug agents working with the Marijuana Eradication Task Force arrested Roy Blalock, age 70 of Henagar and charged him with Trafficking in Marijuana and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after over 100 plants were discovered under his care. Agents also arrested Jeff Spurgin, age 42 of Henagar and charged him with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st after he was found to have over 30 plants at his residence. Task Force agents found and destroyed over 300 plants valued at $600,000 in this first round of the statewide Marijuana Eradication Project.

On July 11th Jail personnel discovered drugs in the detention center and notified Drug Task Force agents. After an investigation Amy Gaul, 37 of Sylvania, Tonya Brewster, 37 of Leesburg, Sonya Wade, 37 of Bryant, Cindy Bates, 53 of Collinsville and Tina Hodge, 45 of Fort Payne are now charged with Promoting Prison Contraband, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

On July 14th Deputies arrested Thomas Harris, age 19 of Crossville, Dakota Gore, age 18 of Fyffe, and John Adams, age 40 of Fort Payne after traffic stops turned up drugs. Harris is charged with DUI, Minor Consuming Alcohol, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Gore is charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Adams is charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd.

On July 2 Crossville Police initiated a traffic stop that also led to drug charges. Arthur A. Davis, age 47 of Horton was arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Prohibited Beverage, and Trafficking illegal Drugs after he was found to be in possession of a pound of cocaine.

“These cases are the result of officers using good judgment and their training to get drugs off the street. As you can see these cases involve everything from Marijuana to Meth to Cocaine,” said Harris. “ I am especially glad to have these trafficking and distribution cases made because that has been our goal for some time. I am troubled that drugs got into our facility but there are just some places you can’t search without medical personnel on new inmates.

Our staff found these drugs quickly and put a stop to it.”

Fort Payne Police Report June 23, 2014 Incidents Theft of Property – Occurred at 1309 Fischer Road NE, a floral arrangement was taken, valued at $200.00 Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, a cell phone screen protector was taken, valued at $14.97 Criminal Mischief – Occurred at 200 45th Street Apt-21, 5 tires were damaged, valued at $600.00 Nine Arrests Justin Tyler Norris, 26 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana Jacqueline D. Malone, 44 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Revocation Warrant and a Court Order to Serve 90 Days Jose Pedro Castillo, 20 of Collinsville, was arrested for Theft of Property Matthew David Delevie, 35 of Leesburg, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Pay Fines Colton Seth Cuzzort, 20 of Rainsville, was arrested on a Court Order to Serve 10 Days Jerry Bruce Galloway, Jr., 37 of Fyffe, was arrested on a Court Order to Serve 210 Days Shaina Reed Jefferys, 26 of Hazel Green, was arrested on a Warrant and a Court Order to Serve 180 Days Bobby Gene White Jr., 35 of Valley Head, was arrested on a Warrant for DUI Benny Jack Steele, 49 of Stevenson, was arrested for Burglary, Assault and Criminal Mischief 3 Accidents with 0 Injuries

June 24, 2014 Incidents Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, food items, clothing, a flower and face scrub were taken, valued at $48.78 Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, a Lens pen and a pack of Sharpies were taken, valued at $11.47 Identity Theft – Occurred at 5109 Greenbriar Road NE, charges of $550.00 were made without authorization Theft of Property – Occurred at 4313 Williams Ave NE, four checks were taken, valued at $534.00 Four Arrests Joni Alajean Posey, age 36 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Theft of Property Angel Lashea Grider, 19 of Henagar, was arrested for Theft of Property Wesley Labron Bell, 27 of Birmingham, was arrested on a Warrant for Assault Timothy Michael Posey, 32 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance 1 Accident with 0 Injuries June 25, 2014 No Incidents • Five Arrests Tevis Edward Bolding, 38 of Pisgah, was arrested on Two Warrants for Failure to Pay and Contempt of Court Geoffrey M. Andrew Fortin, 22 of Henagar, was arrested on a Warrant for Judicial Court Services Heather Nicole Smith, 24 of Fyffe, was arrested on Two Warrants for Judicial Court Services and Contempt of Court

Jon Mark Davis, 53 of Collinsville, was arrested on a Warrant for Judicial Court Services Douglas Noel Broaddus, 62 of Hammondville, was arrested for DUI 1 Accident with 0 Injuries June 26, 2014 Incidents Identity Theft – Occurred at 306 5th Street SW, charges of $346.41 were made without authorization Property Damage – Occurred at 2001 Glenn Blvd, a pylon barrier and post cover were damaged, valued at $100.00 Six Arrests Victoria Elizabeth Lynn Elders, 19 of Flat Rock, was arrested for Public Intoxication Bradley Wesley Elders, 20 of Pisgah, was arrested for Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance Amanda Kay Galloway, 34 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Outside Agency Ashley Lee Smith, 25 of Leesburg, was arrested on a Warrant for Failure to Pay Calvin Dewayne Davis, 27 of Gadsden, was arrested on Two Warrants for Judicial Court Services and Contempt of Court Marquell James Pendleton, 31 of Fort Payne was arrested on a Warrant for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 1 Accident with 0 Injuries June 27, 2014 Incidents Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, a fishing reel was taken, valued at $28.96

Theft of Property – Occurred at Wal-Mart, a knife, three hair treatments, manicure set, card, two makeups, and two LED disk were taken, valued at $54.93 Eight Arrests Kevin Joe Fraley, 47 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Revocation Warrant Gerald Moten, 54 of Cedar Bluff, was arrested on a Warrant for Violation of Court Order Robert Oneal Cook, 28 of Fort Payne, was arrested on a Warrant for Judicial Court Services Charles Edwin Johnson, 35 of Valley Head, was arrested on Two Warrants for Theft of Property and Possession of Marijuana William Cody Shankles, 29 of Fort Payne, was arrested for Attempting to Elude Police Officer Karmen Jodi Higgins, 31 of Pisgah, was arrested for Theft of Property A 14-year-old juvenile female of Tunnel Hill, Ga, was arrested for Theft of Property Phyllis Dyrene Evans, 57 of Fyffe, was arrested for Theft of Property and Giving False Identification to Law Enforcement June 28, 2014 Incidents Duty upon Striking an Unoccupied Vehicle – Occurred at 203 Gault Ave S, the front driver’s side of a 2007 Nissan Titan was damaged, valued at $2500 Possession of a Forged Instrument – Occurred at 1719 Gault Ave NE, a $10.00 bill was counterfeit Theft of Property – Occurred at 1401 Glenn Blvd SW, an IPhone 5 was taken, valued at $200.00

Aarron Buddy Little

Waren Ted Roden

Mr. Aarron “Buddy” Little, 76, of Henagar, passed away on Tuesday, July 15, 2014 at Huntsville Hospital. Funeral.

Services were held on Thursday, July 17, at the W.T. Wilson Chapel. Burial was in Unity Cemetery.

Survivors include: Wife: Hazel Nell Little; Daughters: Darlene (Burnice) Fricks and Misty Wisner; and Son: Marty (Lynn) Little

Mr. Waren Ted Roden, 88, of Boaz. passed away on Friday, July 11, 2014.

Funeral services were held on Sunday, July 13, at the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial was in Liberty Cemetery in Aroney.

Survivors include: Daughter: Gail Roden Cash; Son-in-law, Rex Cash; Grandchildren, Jason R. (Dana) Cash and Rachelle C. (Tommy) McKee; Greatgrandchildren, Jake Cash, Gracie and Samuel McKee, and twins, Avery and Destiny Cash; and Brother: Keith Roden Mr. Roden was preceded in death by his wife: Lorene Scott Roden; parents: Ira and Bess Roden; and best friend: Fred Dooley.

Nannie Beatrice Horton Mrs. Nannie Beatrice Horton, 81 of Rainsville, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2014 at DeKalb Regional Hospital.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, July 16 at W.T. Wilson Chapel. Burial was in Straight Creek Cemetery.

Survivors include: Son: Robert Larry Horton; Sisters: Mary Black & Linda Martin; Brother: David Nye Gifford; Grandson: Daryn Bullock; and Granddaughter: Rebecca Bullock.

Rosa D. Manis Upton Mrs. Rosa D. Manis Upton, 73, of Albertville passed away on Monday July 14, 2014. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Today (Thursday, July 17) at the W.T. Wilson Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Painter cemetery.

Survivors include: Husband: James Upton; Daughters: Rose Marie Winkles, Mary Ellen Manis, Maudie Renea Edwards, Eva Mae Colquett; Sons: James Ray Manis, John Christopher Manis; Brothers: Ralph Bolding, Charles Bolding, Less Bolding; 16 Grandchildren; and several Great Grandchildren.

Albert “AL” Adams Mr. Albert O. “AL” Adams, 76, of Fort Payne, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2014. Funeral services were held on Monday, July 14, at the W.T. Wilson Chapel with burial in Pea Ridge Cemetery.

Survivors include: Daughters: Joyce (Ricky) Stone and Sherry (Jimmy) Wilkerson; Sons: James (Misty) Adams, Wade (Karen) Adams, and Daniel Adams; Grandchildren, Shaun, Jennifer, and Casey Stone; Ethan, Jarred and Sydney Ford; Seth and Ryan Adams; Danielle and Dallas Adams, and Zack and Linsey Driskell; 6 Great-grandchildren. and Brother: Ernest Adams. Mr. Adams was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Faye Rogers Adams

Reva Jean Ragan Bellamy Reva Jean Ragan Bellamy, 81, passed away on July 14, 2014 Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Today (Thursday, July 17) at Etowah Memorial Chapel in Boaz.

Burial will follow at Crestwood Cemetery Survivors include: Daughter: Deborah (Denson) Ragsdale; sister-in-law: Zera Mullendore; grand children Kayla (Malley) Prater and Lori (Brian) Bendall; great grand children Mason, Morgan and Milean as well as many beloved brothers and sisters, brother & sister n laws, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband: Russell M Bellamy; daughter: Barbara Turner; parents: Bedford (Ted) and Marie Ragan; and Sisters: Doris Statham and Marie Stone.

THE LEDGER, Marla Jones

Sylvania’s Roebuck signs scholarship

Michaela Roebuck recently committed to Motlow College in Tullahoma, TN to further her softball career. During her senior year at Sylvania, she was a valuable asset for the Lady Rams. She had a batting average of .339 with 27 RBI's. Her pitching was 626 with one save and she pitched 68 innings.

Motlow Coach Tori Raby-Gentry says she expects Michaela to have some playing time this season and she will be competing for a spot in the pitching rotation. She stated she was excited to have her and hopes she is a strong addition to the program. Summer workouts will start immediately for Michaela and she will begin practice the last week of August. Some of those supporting her decision were: (Seated L-R) her father Michael Roebuck, Michaela, and her mother Rhonda Paschal. (Standing L-R) Milford Roebuck, Robert L. Chaney Sylvania Head Softball Coach Hollie Currie, Caleb Roebuck, Motlow Coach Robert L. Chaney, 69, of Albertville, Tori Raby-Gentry, Glen Roebuck and Stephanie Chance. passed away on July 11, 2014 . Funeral Service were held at the Albertville Memorial Chapel on Sunday, July 13, 2014.

Burial was in Pleasant Grove Cemetery Survivors include: Sisters: Clara Gilbert, Brenda Hastings (Bo); and Brothers: Charles Edward Chaney, Henry Richard Chaney (Patricia) He was preceded in death by: Parents: Luke & Lois Chaney; Brothers: Grady & Raymond Chaney; and Sister: Goldie Davidson.

Evelyn Eloise Payne Evelyn Eloise "Nana" Payne, 76, Boaz passed away Friday, July 11, 2014. Funeral Service were held on Monday, July 14, 2014 at Albertville Memorial Chapel.

Burial was in Hillcrest Cemetery.

Snead State Basketball Players See Success Fort Payne native Michelle Swopes to continue career at University of Mobile A pair of Snead State basketball players, one from the men’s team and one from the women’s team, will be able to continue their success on the court next year.

Women’s Basketball Fort Payne High School graduate Michelle Swopes will be playing at the University of Mobile.

Swopes is a 6-foot-2 post player who earned SecondTeam All-Conference honors last season.

The Fort Payne native played in 23 games during the 2013-14 season, averaging 6.3 points and 4.4 rebounds per contest. She scored 22 points against Gadsden State and 14 against Faulkner State to close out the season.

“She is one of the hardest workers I have ever coached. She is a leader and a role model on and off the court,” said Coach Jarrod Plummer.

Swopes started as a walk-on at Snead State and earned a scholarship after her first semester of college. She shot 40.9-percent from the field and 31.8-percent from the arc.

She averaged seven points and five rebounds per game.

“I would have loved to have coached her more than two years, but I am glad she has received this high honor and opportunity to play at the next level. She’ll always be a big part of the Snead State lady Parson family,” said Coach Plummer.

THE LEDGER, Brandon K. Pierce

Students at West End High School take part in the program’s Rookie Band Camp on Tuesday, July 15, 2014. For the next two weeks the school will be holding it’s annual regular band camp in order to get ready for the upcoming football season. West End’s band is set to open the season at halftime of the Patriots first football game, which is scheduled for August 28, 2014 against Susan Moore.

Men’s Basketball Alabaster’s DeMarcus Threatt signed with the NCAA Division I Fairfield University Stags in Connecticut.

DeMarcus scored over 750 career points while shooting over 51 percent from the field and 38 percent from the arc.

He averaged over three rebounds per game from the point guard position while dishing out almost 150 assists and collecting 70 steals.

He finished second team All-Region. He averaged 21 points per game and was ranked 23rd in the country in scoring.

“DeMarcus was my first recruit when I was hired at Snead State,” said Coach Jay Welborn. “He is everything that I hope a player will become. I never worried about him in the classroom as that was always his focus. He became not only one of the best players in the league but also one of the best student athletes.”

Threatt also received offers from the University of South Alabama and a host of NCAA Division II schools.

“He represented our institution and our team in an extremely classy manner through his time within our program. He is going to be a major success in everything he does because of his work ethic. I’m extremely proud of him and the man he has become.

He’s going to be incredibly difficult to replace,” said Coach Welborn.

Column by Matt Silvestro • Ledger Correspondent If you could go back a year or so ago, I said LeBron James would go back to Cleveland, and I was right.

Many people wondered if he would, but if you look into it, the decision was a no brainer for the MVP. He was an MVP in Miami and won titles. What else could he accomplish there? Miami is also not setup to win long term and this is a team a year or two from now might need to consider rebuilding.

So, James chose to go home and take part in the process there. It's just a great all around story. Four years ago fans were burning his jersey on the streets, I wonder how they feel now, not because he is back, but because they destroyed expensive jerseys that they could wear again.

If you look at the facts, I think this was a much easier choice than people think. It's an incredible story.

Pancake Breakfast There will be an All-You-Care-to-Eat Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, July 26, 2014 at the Sylvania High School Lunchroom from 7-11 a.m. The event is sponsored by the Sylvania quarterback club and the ticket cost is $5.

MCPALS will be holding a quarterly membership meeting on July 25, 2014 at Shoney's in Albertville.

There will be a dutch treat meal beginning at 11 a.m. and the meeting will begin at Noon.

The speaker for the day will be Sam Cobb, Sanitation Director for the City of Guntersville.

All interested persons are invited to attend and learn what MCPALS is doing to promote litter control and more recycling in Marshall County

Dana Duckworth Named Alabama Gymnastics Head Coach Two-time NCAA balance beam champion Dana Duckworth has been named head coach of the University of Alabama gymnastics team, Director of Athletics Bill Battle announced on July 15, 2014.

“When it became evident that Sarah Patterson would be stepping down, we knew that the pieces were already in place to continue our championship tradition,” Battle said. “We are proud to announce that Dana Duckworth, one of the most successful gymnasts in our storied history, will lead us into the future.”

After four years as a gymnast, nine seasons as a volunteer coach and the last six as an assistant coach, Duckworth’s first as head coach will be her 20th year with the Alabama program.

She will be the Tide’s first new head gymnastics coach in 36 years and its sixth

overall.

Duckworth’s promotion is subject to approval by The UA Board of Trustees.

“This is such an amazing opportunity,” Duckworth said. “It is the best job in all of gymnastics and I’m extremely proud to be able to continue to be a part of this incredible tradition.”

“I am pleased that Dana has agreed to become Alabama’s next championship gymnastics coach,” UA President, Dr. Judy Bonner said. “Her ability to bring out the best in our student-athletes will mean continued success for the team and for each individual gymnast. I am confident that our studentathletes will continue to thrive in and out of the classroom, and I look forward to watching these young women compete at the highest levels for many years to come.”

It was also announced that long-time assistant coach Bryan Raschilla will also remain a part of the Crimson Tide staff.

In addition to being a two-time individual national champion, Duckworth was an eight-time All-American, an Academic All-American and an NCAA and SEC Postgraduate Scholarship winner during her career as a student-athlete.

“I love our environment, I love our culture, I love our tradition and I love the fact that as an Alabama gymnast you represent all those things," Duckworth said.

It was those same elements that made her decision to leave a lucrative career with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals to join the Alabama coaching staff on a full-time basis in the fall of 2008 after nearly a decade as a volunteer coach such an easy one.

"I really enjoyed what I was doing at Pfizer and it's a tremendous company but my heart and my passion have always been here at the Capstone with our program," Duckworth said.

"I felt like this was an opportunity for me to do what I love and everyone I have ever talked to has said, if you love what you do, you'll never go to another day of work in your life."

It was an equally easy decision for Sarah and David Patterson Duckworth’s mentors as a gymnast and as a coach when they asked her to return to the program as a full-time assistant coach.

"Dana has always been a great role model for our ladies," Sarah Patterson said.

"She enjoyed tremendous success in all aspects of her Alabama career and her championship experience is

an invaluable resource as she and Bryan move this program into the future."

Duckworth has experienced national team championships as both an athlete and a coach, having been a part of the Tide's 1991 NCAA title as a sophomore and the 2002, 2011 and 2012 NCAA championships as a coach.

She has also won conference titles as an athlete (1990) and a coach. As much as Duckworth appreciates the championship tradition she has been a part of for so long, it's the overall atmosphere created by the people who live, work and go to school at Alabama that she truly appreciates.

"The people at the University of Alabama make everything unique and special," Duckworth said. "I love the fact that the University of Alabama is about tradition and culture.

I tell people all the time that I feel like Tuscaloosa is the best-kept secret because we have it all here and everyone approaches things with a great deal of passion. It makes everyone’s experience very special."

After graduating from UA with a bachelor's degree in Telecommunications and Film, Duckworth moved up the corporate ladder quickly at AMX Corporation, a high-tech firm based in Dallas, Texas. She finished her tenure there as manager of the company's training programs. After receiving her master's degree from Alabama, she served as Director of Marketing of a Trussville-based automotive company followed by a stint as VP of Corporate Solutions for a Birmingham company before returning to Tuscaloosa for a successful run with Pfizer.

Auburn Football Schedule 2014 8-30 Arkansas @ Auburn 9-6 San Jose St @ Auburn 9-13 OPEN 9-18 Auburn @ Kansas St. 9-27 Auburn @ LA Tech 10-4 LSU @ Auburn 10-11 Auburn @ Miss. State 10-18 OPEN 10-25 S. Carolina @ Auburn 11-1 Auburn @ Ole Miss 11-8 Texas A&M @ Auburn 11-15 Auburn @ Georgia 11-22 Samford @ Auburn 11-29 Auburn @ Alabama

The annual Auburn University Fan Day is set for August 10, 2014 from 3:305:30 at the Auburn Arena.

Admission is free and doors open at 3 p.m.

The Alabama State Parks will be presenting the Baumhower’s Shrimpfest & Bar-B-Q on July 26, 2014 at Lake Guntersville State Park. The event will be at the Park Beach. Activities start at noon and the shrimpfest is from 4-9 p.m.

Admission is $3.

From 2000 to 2014, the Rainsville Chamber of Commerce has awarded $52,600 in college scholarships. This will be the third consecutive summer that a golf tournament will serve as the program's primary fund raiser. The Aug. 23 event is sponsored by the Rainsville Chamber and - Auburn’s C.J. Uzomah (No. 81) celebrates with his teammates after scoring a 25 yard touchdown proceeds will help fund during the Tigers game against Tennessee last season. Uzomah was one of Auburn’s players that attended this week’s 2014 SEC scholarships for 2015 Media Days. Uzomah was a last minute replacement for Nick Marshall, who missed the event after being benched from the Plainview seniors. lineup after a marijuana citation last week.

The University of Alabama football team will open the 2016 season in the Cowboys Classic against Southern California at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The game is scheduled for Saturday, September 3, with information on ticket sales as well as television coverage and kickoff time to be determined at a later date.

The eighth annual Cowboys Classic will be the eighth meeting between these storied programs, and the first regular season match-up since the 1970s when they split four epic battles during the 1970, 1971, 1977 and 1978 seasons. This came at a time in college football history when both universities were fighting for the national title on an annual basis, including a shared title in 1978 – when the only loss on Alabama’s 11-1 record was a 24-14 defeat at the hands of a Trojans team that posted a 12-1 record and won the Rose Bowl. The two schools also squared off in the 1985 Aloha Bowl, with the Crimson Tide winning that contest 24-3.

Alabama leads the all-time series 5-2.

Under head coach Nick Saban, the Crimson Tide has played in five previous neutral site regular season games and has two more on the schedule over the next two years.

Alabama will open the 2014 season in Atlanta with a match-up against West Virginia in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff.

Alabama’s Amari Cooper makes a leaping catch during the Crimson Tide’s 2012 44-13 victory over Tennessee. Cooper, who is one of Alabama’s players listed to attend this year’s SEC Media Days, had 7 catches for 162 and two touchdowns in that victory over the Vols.

Schedule Courtesy of the Southeastern Conference

The Ledger Classifieds There will be an antique tractor and power show at the Boaz Farmer’s Market on Saturday, July 19, 2014 from 8 a.m. unitil noon Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. The event is free and open to the public The Northeast Alabama Hunting & Outdoor Expo will be held August 2-3, at the Northeast Alabama Agri-Business Center. There will be product demos, seminars, door prizes, and celebrity appearances by Bill Dance, Dr. Lou, Rex Holmes, as well as many others.

Call 256-605-1801 for info.

The Boaz Miss Harvest Festival pageant will be held on Oct. 4, 2014.

Contestant entry fee is $50 and includes two admission tickets. Applications are due on Sept. 19. For more info call 256-593-8154.

The 50th annual Boaz Harvest Festival Car Show will be held on Oct. 4, 2014 in the VF outlet parking lot on Billy Dyar Blvd. Registration is from 8-10 a.m. Judging is at 3 p.m.

Early entry fee is $20 or $25 at the gate. For more info call 256-593-8154.

- The 2014 Albertville Aggie Basketball camp is set for July 28-31 from 8-11 a.m. in the Albertville Gym. The cost is $50 per player or $90 for two players from same household. The camp is open to boys and girls in grades 2-8.

- Registration for Snead State’s fall baseball league is now open. The SSCC fall league is designed to provide area high school baseball players in grades 9-12 an opportunity to stay sharp offseason. It is intended for those who plan to play on their high school's varsity, junior varsity or freshmen baseball team. Players must use wooden bats, which are available for purchase through Coach Casey Underwood. The Fall League consists of six teams with approximately 12 players on each roster. Each team plays eight games. All games are played in late August and September. Teams are coached

by Snead State baseball players. Registration is $120 and provides game t-shirts, helmet usage, baseballs, umpires, instruction, and use of facilities. All participants must sign a waiver, have an updated physical, and a copy of your insurance card to turn in with their registration form. All players must sign up by Friday, Aug. 15. To find out more details or to register, visit www.snead.edu/fallbaseball.

The Albertville Police Department will be hosting a Women's Self Defense class on September 6, 2014 at 9:00 am. The class will be held at the Albertville Elementary School gym. Participants must be at least 16 years of age, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent. Cost is $20 to cover the cost of the training manual each participant will receive. Class size will be limited to 30 people. If you would like to register for this class, call Sgt. Dave Haun at 256-891-8273.

To Submit Ads: Phone (256) 506-7368 • Fax 256-528-2543 • E-mail TheSportsLedger@gmail.com Or Mail To PO Box 175 • Albertville, AL 35950 • Regular Deadline is each week is Noon Tuesday.

BEACH CONDO FOR SALE DESTIN, FLORIDA - 1 Bedroom Destin Beach Condo for sale by owner.

For more information please call 256-844-8663.

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HELP WANTED SAFETY CONSULTANT for UA SafeState, Alabama's 21(d) OSHA Consultation Program The University of Alabama, College of Continuing Studies seeks a qualified consultant to provide independent, routine safety consultation services, including onsite visits to businesses and industries in Alabama. Closing date is 7/15/2014. Visit UA's employment website at jobs.ua.edu for more information and to apply. EOE/AA. UA is an equal-opportunity educational institution/employer.

THE COLLEGE of Arts and Sciences at The University of Alabama announces an opening for an Executive Director of the Brewer-Porch Children's Center, a specialized treatment facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The Executive Director will have the primary responsibilities for personnel, budget, and facilities management for Brewer-Porch. For the complete position description with application instructions, please visit http://staffjobs.ua.edu/ ?job=497816. AA/EOE. HELP WANTED - TRADES WANT A career operating heavy equipment?

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