CELEBRATING OUR FREEDOM THROUGH ART, MUSIC, AND COMMUNITY EVENTS
A great turnout for the Mardi Gras 5K! Beautiful weather and a fun-filled morning at Choccolocco Park brought together runners and walkers of all ages.
MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
SPRING SPORTS AT CHOCCOLOCCO PARK
INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT: KOBAY SOUTH LLC
MESSAGE FROM THE OXFORD POLICE CHIEF
SPOTLIGHT: CHIEF DANIEL PHIPPS
UPDATE: OXFORD PUBLIC WORKS
MESSAGE FROM THE OXFORD FIRE CHIEF
TRADITION REIMAGINED: CHINA LUCK
OXFORD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: CONCERTS AND MOVIES
UPDATE: OXFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY
UPDATE: HISTORIC MAIN STREET
WELCOME TO OXFORD - NEW BUSINESS OPENINGS
THE BALD EAGLE: A NOBLE SYMBOL FOR OUR COUNTRY
OXFORD COMMUNITY CHORUS: AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL
OXFORD ARTS COUNCIL: STUDENT ART SHOWCASE
JULY 4TH FREEDOM FESTIVAL
JERRY MARKS: AMERICAN HISTORY ART
CHOCCOLOCCO CREEK WATERSHED
OXFORD HEALTH SYSTEMS: PRIMARY CARE
OXFORD PARAMEDICS: FIRST LINK IN LIFESAVING CARE
WATER AND SEWER UPDATE REPORT
OXFORD YELLOW JACKETS: CHAMPIONS
SPOTLIGHT: DR. TODD HAYNIE
C. E. HANNA TRANSFORMATION DAY
OHS STUDENTS GAIN REAL-WORLD SKILLS
SPOTLIGHT: BARBARA LANDERS
Community conversations are important, and we encourage residents to engage directly with city staff—this is your city and your mayor and council are here for you.
Don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know how we can help. Big or small, we’re happy and honored to listen.
City of Oxford Mayor
Alton Craft
Oxford City Council
Phil Gardner
Mike Henderson
Charlotte Hubbard
Chris Spurlin
Steven Waits
If you are a citizen living within the Oxford city limits and are not receiving an Oxford Access magazine and would like to receive them, let us know! We want all of our citizens to be able to have access to the Access.
You can pick up a free copy at the Oxford Public Library, Oxford Civic Center, Bynum Community Center, Friendship Community Center, and Oxford City Hall.
OXFORD ACCESS
P. O. BOX 3383 OXFORD, AL 36203
WWW.OXFORDAL.GOV
Follow us for highlights of community news, city events, and special moments as they happen in our beautiful city.
Dear citizens,
MESSAGE from the OXFORD MAYOR
We have an exciting summer planned for you in Oxford. I hope that you will take part in some of the many events that we will have around our city.
To begin, we have another exciting championship season in May at Choccolocco Park. Our parks and recreation staff and other departments do an outstanding job in preparing for these athletic events. We are continuing to work with sporting organizations across the globe to host these elite championships, so I hope you will join us at the park as we host athletes and spectators from all areas of America. We would not be able to do this without you and your hospitality to our visitors, so on behalf of the city council and myself, thank you for supporting the city of Oxford.
Secondly, I would like to send my best wishes to Public Safety Director and Police Chief Bill Partridge on his retirement. Chief Partridge has served Oxford with honor, and because of him, our city is one of the safest cities in the state. Because of his leadership, we have the best technology and the best police officers that are adequately prepared to handle any emergency, and I am grateful for his leadership for the past two decades. I would also like to congratulate Daniel Phipps, who is taking over for Chief Partridge. He has been preparing for this role for several years, and we are lucky to have him as our new chief. I hope that you will join me as we wish retired Chief Partridge well and we also wish Chief Phipps the best as he takes over a vital role in Oxford.
Speaking of congratulations, I would also like to congratulate the Oxford High School Yellow Jackets on winning the 6A Boys State Championship in basketball. Coach Joel Van Meter and the team worked hard to achieve this goal that has been several decades in the making, and we are proud that they were able to bring home the coveted blue map. Our school system is one of the best in the state in athletics and education, so I am proud that we offer many different opportunities to our students that allow them to reach their goals in education, athletics, and STEM classes.
Our city takes great pride in having family-friendly activities for our residents and guests. Oxford Parks and Recreation, Historic Main Street Oxford, the Oxford Performing Arts Center, and the Oxford Public Library have many events year-round, so please follow our social media pages for up-to-date information.
Lastly, I would like to thank you all for the interest you have in Oxford. Whether it’s attending a council meeting, helping a visitor at a retail space, or just waving to a neighbor, you are truly what makes Oxford “Alabama at its best.”
Kindest regards,
Mayor Alton Craft
Oxford City Council: Steven Waits, Chris Spurlin, Charlotte Hubbard, Phil Gardner, Mike Henderson
HIGH SCHOOL KING OF THE EAST TRACK MEET
OXFORD
CHOCCOLOCCO PARK
USSSA BASEBALL TOURNAMENT
CHOCCOLOCCO PARK
CALHOUN COUNTY SOCCER TOURNAMENT
CHOCCOLOCCO PARK
INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
BY: KOBAY SOUTH LLC & CALHOUN COUNTY EDC
A DECADE IN MOTION KOBAY SOUTH LLC
At Kobay South in Oxford, Alabama, complex automotive components take shape every day. Precisionstamped parts and welded assemblies that go directly into major vehicle programs across North America. There is a team of people who show up, do the work, and get it right every single day.
Step onto the floor, and it becomes clear immediately. There is a rhythm to the work: teams moving with purpose, problems being solved in real time, and a shared understanding of roles, timing, and responsibility. It is fast-paced and structured with collaboration from every department. Our people are at the heart of the business, meeting customer demand, and building something bigger than themselves.
Kobay South’s environment, culture, and steady rhythm did not happen overnight, and the story behind it stretches far beyond Alabama.
The company traces its roots to Enstel Manufacturing, founded in Toronto, Canada, in 1996, a North American automotive supplier known for deep-drawn metal end caps and progressive die stampings. In the early 2000s, Enstel expanded through the acquisition of Kobay, founded in 1987 by tool-and-die engineer Kaz Kobayashi. Kobayashi was part of the original tooling team for the first Honda Civic in Japan. Kobay was built on hard work, disciplined manufacturing processes, and strong relationships within the Japanese customer base.
As automotive manufacturing expanded across the southeastern United States, proximity to customers became increasingly important. This growth was driven by investments from Honda, Toyota, and their Tier 1 suppliers. A stronger regional presence was required to support launches, respond quickly, and collaborate closely with customers. Kobay bridged the gap between Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers by combining engineering and design support, process development, and flexible, high-quality production.
In 2016, Kobay South was established in Oxford, Alabama.
“The early years came with challenges. Building a strong and skilled workforce in a new operation takes time and commitment. We had the opportunity to bring together a team and develop that capability locally. Just as we were gaining momentum and growing our customer base, COVID caused disruption. With the right people in place and in the right seats, the team took ownership, supported each other, and built something we’re all proud of today,” said Gavin Galansky, President of Kobay South.
Kobay South continued pushing forward during those challenging times and was able to sustain its growth.
This year marks 10 years for Kobay South in Oxford. Since opening, the company has grown into a steady presence in the automotive industry. The foundation of our growth has always been the people inside the building. We worked to bring structure and discipline to the floor, setting the standard for clear roles, expectations, and accountability at every level. With the leadership of Patrick McCary, Plant Manager, the team understood what was required and took ownership of their roles.
From the beginning, Kobay South was not just about getting parts out the door, but building something lasting. Over time, that has taken shape through experience, challenges, and through a team that has learned and grown together. A connected workplace built on people and community.
GAVIN GALANSKY
Today, you can walk through the plant and see that growth everywhere. You will see operators who have turned into leaders, technicians who have developed skills that cannot be taught overnight, and teams that know how to move with urgency while still taking pride in doing things the right way. Many of our employees have been a part of that journey for years.
This kind of culture does not happen by accident. It has been built over time through trust, consistency, and a willingness to invest in people. Training has played a big role in that. At Kobay South, growth is ongoing, and learning happens every day.
As Kobay South marks 10 years in Alabama, the company is entering its next phase with a major expansion of its Oxford facility. An additional 60,000 square feet is being added, along with expanded heavy stamping capability, including large-bed transfer press capacity up to 2,000 tons. This expansion will support new and existing automotive programs across North America.
That investment extends beyond the facility itself. Kobay South continues to build strong ties within the Oxford community through partnerships with local schools and workforce development programs such as FAME and CoMeT. These partnerships help create pathways into advanced manufacturing careers and long-term opportunities for the local workforce. FAME and CoMeT help bridge the skills gap and give students a chance to learn, work, and build something for themselves at the same time.
We have confidence in the future and a strong commitment to the community that has supported us. As demand continues to rise and the industry evolves, Kobay South is positioning itself to meet that growth head-on while continuing to invest in its people.
A decade in, Kobay South has grown into a trusted manufacturing partner, an important part of the region’s industrial base, and a place that creates opportunities for the next generation of skilled workers.
Kobay South’s story is not written in steel or square footage. It is written in the people who have grown here and in the customers who continue to trust the work behind the name. The rhythm continues, steady, disciplined, and built on daily execution.
Because in the end, the real story is the people, their commitment, their hard work and the grind it takes to get the job done. That is what will carry us forward into the next chapter and define everything that comes next.
COFFEE WITH A COP HOSTED AT EMBLEM CREDIT UNION
Oxford Police Department
600 Stanley Merrill Drive, Oxford, AL 36203
A MESSAGE FROM THE OXFORD POLICE CHIEF
I hope this message finds you well. It is my privilege to introduce myself as your new Chief of Police and to share a few important reminders as we enter the summer season.
Serving as Chief of Police for a community I love is a tremendous honor. Over the past sixteen years, I have had the benefit of mentorship from Chief Bill Partridge, whose leadership and dedication helped shape our department. While no one can replace Chief Partridge, I am committed to upholding the high standards of professionalism and service that define our agency and ensuring the safety of our citizens and visitors.
As summer approaches, I encourage everyone to prioritize safety while enjoying the season. Please ensure children are closely supervised, especially around water activities. The summer heat can quickly lead to dehydration, so remember to drink plenty of water and take breaks when necessary. Additionally, if you choose to consume alcohol, please do so responsibly and never drive under the influence.
If you are planning to travel this summer, taking a few precautionary steps can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Before departing, inspect your vehicle thoroughly, including checking tire condition and fluid levels, to reduce the risk of unexpected issues on the road.
It is also important to be mindful of what you share on social media. Publicly posting travel plans or real-time updates can unintentionally signal that your home is unoccupied, which may increase the risk of burglary. As a best practice, consider waiting until you return to share highlights from your trip.
The Oxford Police Department remains steadfast in our commitment to serving and protecting this community. We are proud to uphold our motto, “First Class Protection and Service,” and we stand ready to assist you whenever needed.
Daniel Phipps Chief of Police
DANIEL PHIPPS
OXFORD CHIEF OF POLICE
Daniel Phipps became the Chief of Police for the city of Oxford on May 1, 2026, having been promoted from the rank of Deputy Chief.
Mayor Alton Craft presented his recommendation to the Oxford City Council, which was unanimously approved during its regular session on April 28, 2026.
Phipps was sworn into office during that meeting and received his badge from Oxford Police Chief Bill Partridge, who retired after 19 years as chief and a total of 39 years of dedicated service to the department.
“Deputy Chief Daniel Phipps has consistently demonstrated the leadership and vision necessary to lead this department,” Partridge said. “I fully support his appointment as chief effective May 1, 2026, and I am confident he will serve with distinction and continue to strengthen our agency and the community we serve. He will continue our motto: First Class Protection and Service.”
Phipps began his law enforcement career with the Talladega Police Department, where he served as a police officer from 2007 to 2010.
He joined the Oxford Police Department in 2010 as a patrol officer and steadily advanced through the ranks, ultimately serving as Deputy Chief.
Phipps holds a Master of Justice Administration from Faulkner University, where he was named the 2024 Distinguished Alumnus for the College of Arts and Sciences’ Criminal Justice and Legal Studies Department. He also earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice from Jacksonville State University. In addition, he is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the inaugural Command College through the Jacksonville State University Center for Best Practices in Law Enforcement.
Phipps served in both the United States Army Reserve and the Alabama Army National Guard from 2005 to 2017. In 2017, he transferred to the Alabama Air National Guard, where he currently serves as Operations Superintendent for the 187th Security Forces Squadron.
He and his wife, Christie, have been married for 16 years and are the proud parents of their son, Hank.
BY BRIAN GRAVES
WEEKLY CURBSIDE SERVICE
Please bag all leaves and grass clippings. Please do not place any curbside pickup items in the street gutter, as rain washes them into our storm sewers, disrupting the drainage system. Whenever possible, please place them behind the curb.
As always, please continue to sort your piles into the following categories:
• Bagged vegetative items (leaves and lawn clippings)
• Limb and brush trimmings
To ensure that your curbside items are picked up on time, please place them on the right-of-way the evening before your scheduled route day.
You can reach city of Oxford Public Works Department at 256-835-6124 to find out when your items will be picked up each week. You can also call 311, Oxford’s City Service Helpline, which operates Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Oxford Public Works
42 Public Works Drive, Oxford, AL 36203
A MESSAGE FROM OXFORD PUBLIC WORKS
Dear Citizen,
I hope this letter finds you well. It’s an honor to come to you again with a quarterly update on Public Works projects in our great city!
The city of Oxford is working on a couple of upcoming roadway projects that will begin over the course of the next several months. One of the projects is an intersection widening and improvement along Highway 78 at the Dearmanville Road/Sunny Eve Road Intersection. This project will add dedicated turning lanes on Highway 78 and various other safety improvements. The other project is to replace the bridge on Airport Road near the west end of Airport Road. This bridge is currently weight-restricted; school buses and large trucks can’t cross the structure. The new replacement will be wider and open to all legal load weights. We are excited about these improvements and ask for your patience and understanding during construction.
With warm weather upon us and people out working in yards, I would like to shed some light on an issue that we are encountering. As most of you know, our department runs a weekly curbside pickup service for grass clippings, leaves, and tree/shrub trimmings. This service is not intended to be an entire tree pickup service, and we have an ever-growing problem with entire trees being placed along the roadside for pickup. There are a number of reasons that we are prohibited from doing this. The main reason is that it is against our city ordinance. This ordinance may be found on our website www.oxfordal.gov under the Chapter 36 link of the municipal code section. Another reason is that the rubbish that we pick up is placed in our open-air incinerator, and it simply cannot handle large tree trunks and stumps. Most large trees are too difficult and dangerous to be cut by homeowners and therefore result in the hiring of a tree removal service. As a word of advice to the homeowner, please be aware that the tree must be disposed of by the removing entity. We are more than happy to provide our curbside service. We just want to make everyone aware of this issue so we can continue to maintain this service as effectively as possible.
Our curbside leaf vacuum service has ended for the season. Leaves and grass clippings will continue to be picked up on a weekly basis, but they must be placed in bags for this to occur.
I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable summer season!
Sincerely,
Rusty V. Gann, P.E. Public Works Director/City Engineer
More than 120 students representing 29 teams from across the county came together at the Calhoun County Robotics Tournament on Friday, April 10, where innovation, teamwork, and skill took center stage at the Create Technology and Innovation Center.
Oxford Fire Department
A MESSAGE FROM OXFORD FIRE CHIEF BEN STEWART
Since accepting the role of Fire Chief in February, the first few months have been busy but very productive for the department and me. In addition to our usual duties, we have focused on training throughout the department to keep us up to date on our skills and fire tactics. We have also been actively conducting building inspections to help keep our businesses safe. In the coming months, this will continue to be our focus, along with adding hose and fire hydrant testing.
As summer quickly approaches, I know most of us are making plans for what we want to do. Spring and summer mean more outdoor activities. One example is swimming pool maintenance. When preparing your pool for the year and maintaining it afterward, treat pool chemicals with respect. Follow the proper handling instructions and the directions for use printed on the label. When storing these containers, keep them in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from sunlight. Keep chemicals that react with each other in separate locations. For example, chlorine should never be kept around acids of any kind, since they could mix to form a toxic gas. Nor should it be kept near oil, grease, gas, or any petroleum products.
Summer is also the time for July 4th and fireworks. Fireworks should always be used with caution, especially around children. There is no such thing as a completely safe firework. Even sparklers can cause burns and start fires. The July 4th weekend also brings grilling and delicious foods. Make sure your grill is at least 10 feet away from any structure. Any closer could cause siding to melt or, worse, start a serious fire. Furthermore, keep any fuel you are using a reasonable distance away from the active grill to avoid accidentally setting it on fire. Also, never use an outdoor grill indoors or under a covered structure, such as a porch.
Lastly, this advice is intended to help ensure you, your family, and your home remain safe during this season. We all need reminders to stay mindful while having fun. I hope you all have an amazing, fun-filled summer! I also hope to see you all at our annual Independence Day show at Oxford Lake, where we will celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Sincerely,
Chief Ben Stewart City of Oxford Fire Chief
Tradition Reimagined
China Luck Spices Things Up with
Vietnamese Favorites
When the late Ching Hai Lee opened the doors of China Luck in 1988, he could never have imagined that the marble lions watching over those doors at 503 South Quintard Avenue would greet four decades, and as many generations, of area diners who made lunchtime and Sunday buffets into family traditions.
BY BRIAN GRAVES
Lee was assisted by his wife, Feng Chien Lee, and son, Kenny, as customers’ affection for the menu and the venue continued to grow over the years, reaching a point when the patron of the family told his son it was time to grow the business.
Yume opened on Colonial Drive in 2011 with a focus on Japanese cuisine. After a bumpy start, it began to grow in popularity and brought an untapped market of food lovers to Kenny’s attention, which has now become an exciting addition to the China Luck menu.
“One day, there were people coming from the area hotels and asking if we had a Vietnamese menu here,” he said. “That gave me an idea that people were searching for something different.”
Kenny sold Yume a few years ago and decided to reinvest in what had once stood as a community icon while adding this newfound menu potential.
China Luck reopened on July 1, 2025, with its familiar recipes and decor after being closed for seven years, and now offers patrons the chance to try Vietnamese cuisine.
“This is something popular in the big cities, but new around here,” Kenny said. “I think people like to try new stuff, and some change is good. It was time for us to do that. The Chinese food remains the same as before. But, we wanted to give everyone more choice.”
Goi Cuon (Shrimp Rolls) and Thit Nuong Cuon (Grilled BBQ Pork Roll)
Translucent rice paper wraps shrimp or pork, vermicelli, thinly sliced iceberg lettuce, and fresh herbs into cool, delicate rolls. A dip in their signature homemade peanut sauce adds a rich, nutty sweetness that brings the fresh flavors together.
Ingredients:
• Rice paper wrapper
• Shrimp or grilled BBQ pork
• Rice vermicelli noodles
• Lettuce
• Fresh herbs (cilantro and/or mint)
On the side:
• Peanut dipping sauce (hoisin-peanut based, thick and slightly sweet)
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Pho Tai Chin (Beef Noodle Soup With Thinly Sliced Cooked Beef)
Pho with herb plate
A clear, amber broth anchors this bowl of pho, its depth built on long-simmered bones and quiet patience. On the side, a tangle of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime invites customization—bright, peppery, and sharp—transforming each spoonful from comforting to vividly alive.
In the bowl:
• Clear beef broth
• Rice noodles
• Sliced onion
• Chopped green onion (scallions)
• Beef slices lightly cooked in the broth
On the side
• Bean sprouts
• Thai basil
• Cilantro
• Jalapeño slices
• Lime wedges
• Hoisin sauce and sriracha
He notes that the main difference between the two food styles is that Chinese cuisine uses more noodles, flank steak, and chicken, while Vietnamese cuisine features different types of meat like brisket and tenderloin, less soy sauce, and a variety of herbs that create a unique flavor.
“Everything we do is all from scratch,” said Kenny’s wife, Scarlett. “Our meat is fresh, and we marinade it ourselves for six hours. We make our own broth and do not use ‘ready-to-use’ paste or powder.”
That is due to China Luck’s Vietnamese Chef Thanh from Birmingham, who also makes much of the spices and sauces from scratch.
Kenny’s wife, Scarlett, said China Luck originally reopened with Chef Thanh on board, but the distance from Birmingham and family responsibilities became too much for him.
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Coffee
A slow pour of hot water through a phin filter coaxes out a deep, almost chocolatey brew that drips steadily into a pool of condensed milk below. The result is unmistakably Vietnamese—bold, sweet, and delicious.
Bánh mì
Crackling on the outside and airy within, the baguette gives way to a layered filling of crisp vegetables, herbs, and savory protein. Each bite lands in contrast—cool and warm, pickled and rich—capturing the balance that makes bánh mì as addictive as it is satisfying.
Vietnamese baguette (light, crisp crust)
Fillings
• Grilled pork or chicken
• Pickled carrots
• Daikon (large white radish with a mild, slightly sweet flavor)
• Fresh cucumber sticks
• Fresh cilantro
Kenny and Scarlett Lee
“He was only here for two weeks at first,” Scarlett said. “We then talked to him over the phone and asked him to think about coming back because we had a lot of customers requesting the new items, and we wanted everything to be authentic.”
Chef Thanh makes regular trips to Atlanta, where the acquisition of certain fresh vegetables and ingredients unique to the culture is easier to obtain due to the demands of a large Vietnamese population.
The Lees are very dedicated to using the freshest ingredients. So much so, Scarlett said they may soon begin growing their own basil, which is more difficult to find as a garden-fresh item.
“I think people like to try new stuff, and some change is good. It was time for us to do that.”
The menu provides appetizer rolls with shrimp, BBQ, tofu, and fried Vietnamese pork; sandwiches with grilled pork or chicken; steamed rice with chicken, pork chop, pork, or shrimp; rice noodles with chicken, pork, shrimp, or a combination of shrimp and pork; pho-noodle soups served with 12 different varieties including thinly-sliced meat, brisket, filet mignon, meatball, chicken, shrimp, seafood, and vegetarian; boba and jelly; and coffees.
“We have offered samples to get feedback from customers, and all the dishes have been well received,” Scarlett said.
“We want people to know if they are looking for good Vietnamese food, here we are,” Kenny said.
UPDATE
OXFORD LIBRARY
There are lots of reasons to join us at OPL through the summer! The Summer Reading Program will be incredible this year; in June, we will “Unearth a Story” with decorations, programs, and activities themed around dinosaurs! In July, we will celebrate our great country’s semiquincentennial.
For kids, reading during the summer months is an important way to keep reading skills from sliding backwards. The Summer Slide happens when the skills learned during the school year are neglected during the summer, causing learning loss. There is clear and consistent evidence that reading through the summer and participating in summer educational programs help to retain what was learned during the school year. The Summer Reading program is a great way for our library to celebrate and encourage reading with our community; read together, learn together, and play together! Adults are not to be left out! Reading doesn’t stop with school, and neither should participating in the Summer Reading Program! Learn more about the Summer Reading Program at OPL by visiting our website, www.oxfordpl.org/srp. We look forward to reading with you this summer!
One of the exciting new programs that we are excited to bring this summer is through a partnership with the Calhoun County Extension Office. It’s a Family Cooking Class! Join Dylan Hurst from Calhoun County Cooperative Extension and Auburn University for our Eating Smart, Moving More program. This six-week series is designed to support parents and grandparents who are responsible for feeding children in their homes. Participants can attend on their own or bring the whole family while learning simple, practical ways to eat healthier, stay active, and make everyday choices that support overall well-being. Each session includes fun movement activities and hands-on cooking experiences that everyone can enjoy. Build healthy habits together in a fun, supportive environment.
Register for this program at www.oxfordpl.org/srp; the series is designed to work not as one-session programs, but as a collective group of weekly meetings. These meetings will be on Mondays at 5:00 on June 15, 22, and 29 and July 13, 20, and 27. For more information, please contact me at amy.henderson@oxfordal.gov.
We have several local authors in our area! OPL will be hosting a Meet an Author event on July 17th from 10:00-12:00 to highlight local authors and connect them with their local readers. Come visit OPL during the event to meet a local author! Ask them questions about their books or about how they became an author. If you are a local author that would like to participate, please contact the library to be added to the event. If you are a local reader that would like to meet an author, mark your calendar to attend the event!
Happy reading,
Amy E. Henderson, MLIS Director, Oxford Public Library
UPDATE HISTORIC MAIN STREET OXFORD
By Hunter C. Gentry, Executive Director
Exciting things continue to take place in Historic Downtown Oxford as we build on our momentum and look toward another successful year.
In January, I joined Main Street Alabama for its annual Legislative Day on the Hill. This important event brings together Main Street program directors from across the state to meet with legislators and highlight the significant economic impact of Main Street programs in Alabama communities. During the visit, I had the opportunity to meet with Sen. Keith Kelley, Rep. Chad Robertson, Rep. Barbara Boyd, Rep. Steve Hurst, and Rep. Mark Gidley to share the continued progress and achievements of Historic Main Street Oxford.
Mayor Craft spoke at the annual meeting in February
In February, we hosted our third annual meeting and awards breakfast at The Studio at the Oxford Performing Arts Center, celebrating the accomplishments of 2025. Over the past year, Historic Main Street Oxford welcomed six new businesses to the district: RenewMed, Below Zero Creamery, Longleaf Books & Bindery, Above & Beyond Interiors, Raymond James Financial, and Hale Street Airbnb. Additionally, HOUSE Counseling expanded its presence with a second downtown location.
The district also experienced more than $1 million in combined public and private investment. These investments included building improvements such as interior renovations, roof repairs, signage upgrades, new garbage receptacles, and enhanced landscaping, continuing to elevate the overall appearance and functionality of downtown.
Historic Main Street Oxford was honored to receive two Awards of Excellence from Main Street Alabama: Main Street Hero (City of Oxford Maintenance Department) and Excellence in Historic Preservation (Spring Street Station). During our annual meeting, we were also proud to recognize outstanding local contributions, including:
• Downtown Business of the Year: The Vine Chiropractic
• Downtown Employee of the Year: Allie Goggans, TEAM Rehabilitation for Kids
• Volunteer of the Year: Greg Hethcox
• Inaugural Legacy Award: The Bentley Family
This spring, Historic Main Street Oxford has already coordinated two downtown litter clean-up days. These efforts not only help maintain the beauty of our district but also provide a meaningful opportunity for community members to get involved and take pride in keeping downtown clean, welcoming, and vibrant.
As we move further into 2026, Historic Main Street Oxford remains committed to building on this momentum by supporting our businesses, enhancing the appearance of downtown, and creating meaningful experiences for our community. Downtown Oxford continues to thrive because of the people who invest their time, energy, and passion into making it special. Whether you are a business owner, volunteer, resident, or visitor, you play a vital role in our success. None of this progress would be possible without the continued support of our city leadership, partners, volunteers, and Main Street members. Together, we are not only preserving our history, we are shaping a vibrant and thriving future for Historic Downtown Oxford.
At the city of Oxford, we appreciate every business that invests in our community, whether it’s a small, locally owned shop or a national brand. Each new business strengthens our local economy, creates jobs, and adds to the character of our city.
We are proud to welcome new businesses with ribbon-cuttings and look forward to celebrating their success and growth in Oxford.
“LAST OUNCE OF COURAGE”
THE BALD EAGLE
A Noble Symbol for Our Country
The excitement surrounding America’s 250th anniversary has a familiar ring. Fifty years ago, we celebrated our nation’s Bicentennial. There was a current of excitement in the air, accompanied by a renewed interest in one of the world’s most inspiring national symbols—the bald eagle. These majestic birds were especially compelling at the time because they were struggling for their very existence, threatened by illegal hunting, habitat destruction, and, in particular, the widespread use of the pesticide DDT, which caused the thinning of eggshells in many avian species.
This renewed concern led to a surge in bald eagle protection efforts. The Bicentennial period was filled with initiatives aimed at inspiring the public to support eagle rescue and conservation across the country. Many wildlife artists have long been drawn to the bald eagle, and as one of those enthusiasts, I found great fulfillment in studying and painting them. It was especially exciting to have one of my eagle paintings selected for the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition in Charleston, along with a commemorative print edition titled “Time to Soar.”
Following the success of “Time to Soar,” another of my eagle paintings was chosen, this time by the Charleston Mint as a Bicentennial image for a special Commemorative Print and Medallion Edition. Entitled “Above and Beyond,” the piece was officially designated to commemorate the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution. It also recognized a concurrent milestone: the founding of the U.S. Marshals Service. The Constitution was signed on September 17, 1787, and President George Washington established the U.S. Marshals Service on September 24, 1789. These anniversaries were celebrated together through the creation of limited-edition prints (produced by Wren’s Nest Inc.) and matching numbered bronze medallions from the Charleston Mint. The original painting was displayed at a banquet in Washington, D.C., where the keynote speaker was Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist of the U.S. Supreme Court.
In Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Gilcrease Western Art Museum hosted a Bicentennial celebration for the U.S. Marshals Service. The guest speaker was television star James Arness—best known as Matt Dillon, U.S. Marshal. Once again, “Above and Beyond” was displayed, this time alongside a striking work by Frederick Remington—the last Remington print to be published. The painting found itself, once more, in distinguished company.
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“ABOVE AND BEYOND”
The song America the Beautiful was first published as a poem by Katharine Lee Bates in 1895, with music added by Samuel A. Ward in 1910. As part of a centennial celebration, the Bradford Exchange produced a series of collectibles featuring bald eagle imagery inspired by different lines of the song. They commissioned multiple paintings—two for each section—for example, “Oh Beautiful for Spacious Skies,” which included “Spacious Skies I” and “Spacious Skies II.” This allowed for different images on the front and reverse sides of collectible steins. Collector plates and other limited-edition items were also produced. Even today, bald eagle -themed patriotic checks are still available for the few of us who continue to use them.
Eagles serve powerfully as patriotic (or spiritual) symbols. While eagle imagery appears in the iconography of several nations, the bald eagle is uniquely American, with its white head (certainly not bald), white tail, yellow eyes, feet, and beak, and rich, burnt-umber-hued brown body. Though slightly smaller than the golden eagle, it is unmatched in grandeur. One need only watch the well-known video of the bald eagle, “Challenger,” performing at major patriotic and sporting events, to appreciate this. With remarkable precision, he launches from a stadium loft, dives into a crowd-filled arena, and lands gracefully on his handler’s arm. It is a sight that never grows old.
Of course, eagles do age. Challenger was retired from free-flight performances a few years ago, but after cataract surgery, even at 37 years old, he remains as an “ambassador,” bridging the gap between humans and this remarkable avian symbol. I once spent a day at the American Eagle Foundation in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, with Challenger and the foundation’s CEO, Al Ceceré It was a memorable experience, one I described in a previous issue of Oxford Access.
Surely the most symbolic bald eagle image in this article is “Last Ounce of Courage,” in which the eagle represents itself, as I’ll explain. I often think back to a stormy day when a Bald Eagle nearly crashed into me. Heavy wind and rain forced him dangerously close to the ground and near certain death. Yet, after several determined efforts, his powerful wings lifted him just enough. As he passed, his wingtip seemed to brush the earth. If there is a message in that moment, it is this: “Never give up!” He didn’t—and he survived.
My message here is simple: Happy Semiquincentennial!
GALLERY: WREN’S NEST AT OXFORD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
100 E. CHOCCOLOCCO STREET, OXFORD, AL 36207 256-238-0710 • 800-833-9736 • WWW.WRENSNESTOPAC.COM
“SPACIOUS SKIES I”
America the Beautiful Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom
REGIONAL STUDENT ART SHOWCASE
The Oxford Arts Council is proud to present a regional student art showcase celebrating creativity, talent, and patriotism through this year’s theme, “America the Beautiful: Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom.” Area schools will submit their top three student works in each division—elementary, middle, and high school—highlighting the very best young artists across our community.
These outstanding pieces will be on display during the Oxford Freedom Festival on the Fourth of July, offering festival goers a unique opportunity to experience the visions of the next generation through art. A panel of local artists will serve as judges, selecting overall winners in each age group, who will then be honored in the following issue of Oxford Access.
This event not only celebrates our nation’s history and ideals, but also underscores the vital role the arts play in education. Student art programs foster creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression—skills that benefit students far beyond the classroom. Showcasing this work in a public setting builds confidence, encourages community pride, and connects young artists with a wider audience that values and supports their efforts. By investing in and celebrating arts education, we are nurturing future innovators, storytellers, and leaders.
The Oxford Arts Council invites the entire community to come out, support these talented students, and experience firsthand the incredible artistic spirit thriving in our schools.
BY HOPE CHASTAIN
• Around the Lake Ramble
• Parade
• Petting Zoo
• Tricycle and Bicycle Races
• Pet Show
• Field Games
• Carnival Games
• Swim Races
OXFORD LAKE & CIVIC CENTER
JULY 4TH, 2026
FAMILY FUN EVENT • FIREWORKS 9:00 PM Activities start at 8:00 AM!
JERRY MARKS
“TICONDEROGA”
JERRY MARKS
American History Art
AA picture is worth a thousand words, especially when painted by Oxford artist Jerry Marks. His historic watercolors and acrylics are always accompanied by detailed stories. Marks enjoys sharing his knowledge of the past with eager listeners. Audiences have gathered at Parker Memorial Baptist Church and the Anniston Civitan Club to hear the stories and facts behind each painting.
For example, his presentation on art sparked much discussion when he spoke on “The Men Behind the Constitution” at the Anniston Public Library. Marks offered his summary of our founding fathers’ ideals and what they hoped to accomplish. Those present were asked to decide on how close or far away our objectives are now in comparison to the founders’ visions.
“I love history, and I love art,” he explains. “Fortunately, I’m able to put them together.”
Marks is a self-taught painter whose art career began after retiring in 1993 as an industrial engineer at the Anniston Army Depot. Reflecting on his transition, he commented, “My drawing and drafting work benefited me in creating accurate perspectives of the structures.”
BY HERVEY FOLSOM
These colorfully painted landmarks are numerous. They range from Oxford’s Old Mill and Oxford Lake to views in Williamsburg, VA, and then to early Anniston scenes. He completed two different views of the Statue of Liberty: one of the statue being assembled in Paris, France, before it was shipped to New York, and another of a sailing ship being towed from the New York harbor with the statue in the background shortly after the dedication in 1886.
Marks draws attention to the American Revolutionary War in his acrylic of George Washington and French Army General Jean-Baptiste Rochambeau, depicting a positive encounter on the Delaware River. France supported the colonists, and, according to Marks, the advance of the colonists and French armies onto the peninsula surrounding Cornwallis at Yorktown enabled the final defeat of the British forces, and the end of the war.
“My specialty is early American history,” Marks explained. “I think people are interested in this.”
Colonial Williamsburg
When the Marks’ daughter, Jerri-Lynn, moved to Williamsburg, a new chapter opened for his career. The Marks made frequent trips to this Virginia historic district. “It was teeming with
“GEORGE WASHINGTON AT VALLEY FORGE, 1777-1778”
history,” he said, “And there was a demand for original art.” His first painting, The Toymaker’s Shop, was sold by his wife, Barbara, at Merchant’s Square—an early milestone that opened the door to further opportunities. He went on to exhibit in the spring and fall outdoor art shows there for 13 years, and his work was represented and sold through the prestigious Gallery on Merchant’s Square for another 13 to 14 years.
“During this time, I transitioned to acrylics and began focusing on the people who helped build our nation,” he continued. The first work in this new direction was a painting of George Washington at Valley Forge in prayer, with his horse, Nelson, behind him. The original painting was exhibited and sold through the Gallery on Merchant’s Square. A later version was sold at Nunnally’s Noble Street Custom Frame & Gallery. Surprisingly, it was purchased immediately by a customer from Washington, D.C., who planned to place it in Christ Church in Arlington, VA (two miles from D.C.), where Washington is said to have worshiped occasionally. However, this did not happen due to a schism within the Episcopal Church.
Marks’ major painting from Williamsburg is an overview of the area around Bruton Parish Church and the home of George Wythe, one of seven Virginia signers of the Declaration of
“BRUTON PARISH CHURCH AND GEORGE WYTHE HOUSE, COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, VA.”
COMMUNITY CENTERS & PARKS
BANNISTER PARK
Located off Friendship Road Oxford, Alabama 36203
BYNUM COMMUNITY CENTER
200 Victory Dr, Eastaboga, AL 36260 (256) 241-2716
CHEAHA CLUBHOUSE
910 Boozer Drive, Oxford, AL 36203 256-831-2660
CHOCCOLOCCO PARK
954 Leon Smith Parkway, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 342-0174
OXFORD CIVIC CENTER AND OXFORD LAKE
401 McCullars Lane, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 831-2660
FRIENDSHIP
COMMUNITY CENTER
2930 Friendship Rd, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 831-2679
LIBERTY PARK
401 McCullars Lane Oxford, Alabama 36203
SENIOR CITIZEN CENTER
424 Main Street, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 831-5900
SIMMONS PARK
Corner of Main Street and Oak Street Oxford, AL 36203
American Independence. “It did not sell, but to me, it was the finest work I did to capture the full history of Colonial Williamsburg.” He donated it to the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. “It was graciously accepted and now hangs in the main hall of the Executive Office Building of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, known as the Goodwin Building. It was named for William A.R. Goodwin, who first conceived the idea of a fully restored Williamsburg and secured the funds for the project.” “That was as good as it gets,” he said. “I felt extremely blessed.”
Retired, but not officially Marks has unofficially retired—three times—but the drawing board and easel beckon daily.
Most recently, his subjects include pets for friends and family, and a 36” X 48” acrylic of downtown Oxford as it looked in 1950. “This required a month of research before the painting phase could begin,” he said.
“I describe my art as a window into the historical past, and I’ve been thrilled to combine art and Americana history into the most satisfying second career I could have imagined,” Marks shared.
“I love my mission,” he added. “As long as I’m breathing, I’ll be painting. But I hope my work sparks a deeper appreciation for history in generations to come. That’s what matters.”
The Oxford Library is currently exhibiting several of Marks’s paintings, including four that portray Oxford at different moments in its history.
Oxford Health Systems Primary Care
Rooted in Prevention, Focused on Community
In a community where neighbors still look out for one another and quality care matters, Oxford Health Systems Primary Care serves as a dependable partner in helping individuals and families maintain their health. Built on a foundation of trust and consistency, the clinic provides well-rounded care designed to support patients through every stage of life.
At its core, the facility emphasizes preventative care, offering annual wellness exams, physicals, vaccinations, routine lab work, and personalized counseling to help patients stay ahead of potential health concerns. For those needing ongoing support, chronic condition management includes care for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, heart failure, COPD, asthma, high cholesterol, and thyroid disorders, with a focus on steady, manageable treatment plans.
The clinic also treats minor injuries and illnesses, including cuts, sprains, minor fractures, sports injuries, and everyday aches, providing timely care without the need for emergency visits. Expanding beyond traditional services, IV hydration therapy delivers fluids, electrolytes, and vitamins directly for quick recovery and improved energy, while GLP-1 and peptide therapies support weight management, metabolism, and overall wellness.
For patients interested in aesthetics, Botox® and dermal fillers offer safe, minimally invasive options to refresh and restore appearance. Additionally, InBody body composition analysis gives patients a clear, detailed understanding of their health, helping guide fitness and wellness decisions with measurable data.
What truly defines the clinic is its people. Patients are supported daily by Office Manager Maggie Ray and Brooklyn Ponder, Patient Care Tech, while clinical care is led by Dr. Carol R. Parks and Lauren Pollard, CRNP, whose experience and commitment ensure each patient receives attentive, personalized care.
Oxford Health Systems Primary Care reflects a straightforward approach to healthcare that focuses on reliable, accessible care, centered on the well-being of the community it serves.
1102 Luttrell Street, Oxford, AL 36203 • 256-470-9998
Strengthening the First Link in Lifesaving Care Oxford Paramedics
In the nearly six years since its creation, Oxford Paramedics, the EMS service line of your health care authority, Oxford Health Systems, has grown into one of the most advanced EMS providers in the nation. The service prioritizes innovation and high-level care: almost all paramedics are critical care licensed, registered nurses are part of our pre-hospital response, and full-time physician oversight directly supports our field crews. The service operates as one of the few licensed Critical Care Transport (CCT) services in Alabama, regularly performs pre-hospital blood transfusions, and deploys specialized nurse/paramedic response teams for critical patients. As Oxford continues to grow–both in population and industry–EMS call volumes have surged, and crews are frequently transporting patients to specialized care centers in Birmingham and Atlanta.
Beyond emergency response, Oxford Paramedics also delivers community paramedicine, an approach focused on proactive, patient-centered care
outside of traditional emergency calls. Community paramedicine includes supporting patients with chronic conditions, helping reduce unnecessary hospital visits, ensuring continuity of care within the community, and otherwise expanding care beyond traditional emergency medical response. Our successful community paramedicine program has inspired us to expand another community-focused program area of our EMS system.
While our advanced capabilities have strengthened emergency care in Oxford, the organization’s next phase of growth focuses on something even more fundamental: the role of the community itself.
Oxford Paramedics recognizes that the most critical moments in an emergency often occur before an ambulance ever arrives. Whether it’s cardiac arrest, traumatic injury, or sudden illness, survival frequently depends on early recognition, an immediate call to 911, and quick action by bystanders. In those first few minutes, CPR, basic first aid, and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can mean the difference between life and death. No matter how fast an emergency responder or ambulance arrives—and we have some of the best response times—it is the few seconds to minutes immediately following the onset of a medical emergency or an injury that are often most important.
That’s why Oxford Paramedics is placing a significant emphasis on community engagement, treating it not as an occasional outreach effort, but as a core component of its EMS system.
This summer, the organization will launch an expanded community education initiative to provide free, accessible CPR and first aid training. The goal is simple but powerful: equip as many citizens as possible with the knowledge and confidence to act in an emergency.
In addition, Oxford Paramedics is introducing a new AED community placement program. Through a partnership with the city council, 20 AEDs previously used in city buildings, still fully functional and capable of saving lives, will be donated to nonprofit organizations, faith-based groups, and community organizations that otherwise could not afford them. As part of its broader responsibilities, Oxford Paramedics already manages and maintains AEDs in public and municipal facilities, ensuring they remain ready for use. Now, we will be able to place more AEDs throughout the community, extending the same lifesaving capability farther into our city.
These efforts reflect a broader philosophy: every resident of Oxford is part of the emergency medical system. The citizen who recognizes an emergency, calls 911, starts CPR, or uses an AED is just as vital as the paramedic, nurse, or physician who arrives moments later. Strokes are a great example; just recognizing that your loved one, friend, or neighbor is having stroke symptoms and acting quickly to call 911 saves lives and improves outcomes. Never mind the fact that early CPR and AED use is the most important determining factor in survival when someone is in cardiac arrest. For these reasons, we recognize that each citizen is a potential emergency responder in that context.
While Oxford Paramedics takes pride in its rapid response times and advanced clinical capabilities, as stated above, we also understand that true lifesaving begins with the “first link” in the chain of survival, the community itself.
By elevating public education and engagement to the level of a dedicated service line, Oxford Paramedics is setting a new standard for EMS systems. It is a model built not only on advanced capabilities and emergency care, but also on empowering people, neighbors, families, and everyday citizens to act when it matters most.
We draw inspiration from our city leaders and their work and desire to make Oxford the best at everything, which drives us to expand our community-focused approach to emergency care. None of our capabilities would be in place without the purposeful actions of your elected officials and their continued support. It is the mayor and the city council who support and fund the health care authorities' services. Every time an ambulance responds in this city and saves a life, it is because of solid municipal leadership and their care for the people. We will now place that care, that love, and emergency capabilities in more organizations, more churches, and more homes in Oxford through this community-focused initiative.
For more information about the AED donation program or upcoming community CPR and first aid classes, contact us at community@ohsparamedics.org.
Mason Scott, Chief Operating Officer Oxford Health Systems Health Care Authority of the city of Oxford, Alabama
2025 WATER & SEWER UPDATE
In Water News,
The Oxford Water Works routinely monitors for constituents in your drinking water. Oxford monitored for inorganic contaminants, lead and copper, microbiological contaminants, nitrates, radioactive contaminants, synthetic organic contaminants, volatile organic contaminants, disinfection by-products, PFAS contaminants, and cryptosporidium in 2025. We had tests performed for these constituents and only 22 were at detectable levels. All monitoring and testing were performed according to Federal and State Laws. Oxford Water Works & Sewer Board had NO violations.
The most recent testing for lead and copper compliance within the distribution system was in 2025. This testing was done in accordance with applicable regulations. No lead or copper samples exceeded the action level.
Oxford Water Works & Sewer Board has completed the lead line inventory to locate any possible lead and galvanized (requiring replacement if following lead) service lines in the system. There were NO lead service lines found in the system and therefore NO galvanized lines requiring replacement. To access the interactive online map of the Oxford Water Lead Service Line Inventory, please visit https://owwsb.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=022f47c47bb54a30839b0acfe7e3bd95.
In Wastewater News,
The Tull C. Allen WWTP sends a discharge monitoring report (DMR) to ADEM every month. This report is an accumulation of all the lab data that is done in-house by a certified lab technician, as well as what is sent to contract laboratories. These limits are dictated by ADEM and based upon their data, determine what would be an acceptable level of discharge, as it would affect Choccolocco Creek. The parameters that are analyzed with the WWTP permit are as follows: Turbidity, Oxygen (D.O.), pH, Suspended Solids (TSS), Ammonia (NH3), Nitrate+Nitrite (NO3+NO2), Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN), Phosphorus (P), Silver, Color, Flow, Total Residual Chlorine (TRC) (only if using chlorine), E.coli, Cyanide (CN), Peracetic Acid (for disinfection), and Carbonaceous Biochemical Oxygen Demand (CBOD). Some of these have a minimum value, some have a maximum value and some are just monitored with no specific limit. Some of the values are analyzed 3 times per week, where others are analyzed just once per month. In the calendar year of 2025, Tull C. Allen processed an average of 4.29 million gallons per day (MGD) and we are proud to say that of 1700+ analyses performed, there was not a single exceedance of the effluent discharge into Choccolocco Creek. The DMRs of each month are available on the Oxford WWSB website. Also on Oxford’s WWSB website, notifications of any non-compliances to the parameters that would have been listed above are detailed with the reports. There were NO Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSO) that occurred in 2025.
In Storm Water News,
The Oxford Storm Water Management Plan (SWMP) was revised and submitted in April 2022. The 2025 Annual Storm Water Report will be submitted in May 2026. The annual reports and SWMPs are available on the City of Oxford’s webpage at www.oxfordal.gov. Please follow the City of Oxford’s social media outlets to see how you can be involved in local storm water and environmental activities. If you observe any illegal dumping or if you observe pollutants within the waterways or storm sewers, please contact the City of Oxford’s Public Works Department at (256) 835-6124 or visit the Oxford 311 link on the City’s website at https://www.oxfordal.gov/311.
If you don’t want it in your water, keep it out of the storm drain!
Oxford Water Works & Sewer Board
600 Barry Street, Post Office Box 3663, Oxford, Alabama 36203
Phone: 256-831-5618 Fax: 256-831-9063
Main Office Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday—Friday www.oxfordwater.com
OXFORD YELLOW JACKETS
CHAMPIONS
In a defining moment for Oxford basketball, the Oxford High School Yellow Jackets etched a new chapter into the city’s sports history. Inside Legacy Arena at the BJCC, the Yellow Jackets surged past Cullman with a commanding 68–44 victory to claim the Class 6A boys state basketball title—the first championship of its kind for the program.
Finishing the season at an impressive 30–4, Oxford’s run was as decisive as it was historic. Leading the charge was Jalen Alexander, whose standout performance earned him tournament MVP honors. He was joined on the alltournament team by teammates Marcus Perry and Chris Latson, underscoring the depth and cohesion that defined the squad all season.
At the helm, Joel Van Meter guided the team with steady conviction, earning Class 6A Coach of the Year recognition from the Alabama Sports Writers Association. Together, they delivered not just a championship, but a moment that will resonate across Oxford for years to come.
Larry Davidson, Athletic Director Chemistry is something you talk about but can’t define. You just know when you have it, and this group had it. This was such an amazing group. They had such a bond. It was contagious to those who came into contact with these players and coaches. Coach Van and these players earned this by what they do every day. Their work is a testament to what positive relationships can accomplish.
Winning the state championship was the culmination of years of work by coaches and players. This is just a platform for people to see what’s been happening day to day in our program.
The standard that Coach Van holds our players to has never changed throughout the years. The championship was just the reward.
Joel Van Meter, Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach
The most rewarding part of our season was the fact that we never had a bad practice. Our players and coaches were locked in, working towards our overall goal of getting a little better each day. Throughout the year we not only continued our standard that had been set from years past, but we raised that standard of how we do things on a daily basis.
This is a special group of people who made a commitment to do something special together. Through their dedication, sacrifice, and love for one another, they were able to accomplish the ultimate goal of winning a state championship. There are so many people who have a hand in our success. We have a quote on the wall as we leave our locker room that best depicts this....“You never win alone!”
I personally want to thank every person who has ever worn the Black and Gold of Oxford Basketball for their commitment and dedication and sacrifice. If not for their willingness to lay the foundation of what it means to wear that uniform, our players could have never achieved such a lofty goal. To those of you who have worn that uniform from 1909 to the present, I leave you with this: WE PLAY FOR THOSE WHO CAME BEFORE
SPOTLIGHT
A NEW CHAPTER FOR OXFORD CITY SCHOOLS
Oxford City Schools is stepping into a new chapter in leadership with a familiar face at the helm. Dr. Todd Haynie, who has served as assistant superintendent since 2025, is now leading the district as superintendent, bringing both experience and a personal connection to the role.
With more than two decades in education, Dr. Haynie’s career spans classroom instruction, school leadership, and district administration. He is known for his focus on student achievement, strong support for teachers, and a leadership style grounded in relationships. His previous work includes leading Boaz City Schools to nationally recognized academic growth and increased opportunities for both students and educators.
But for Dr. Haynie, this role is about more than professional experience—it’s personal. As a father of four children who attend Oxford City Schools, he is deeply invested in the success of the district, not only as a leader, but as a parent.
“This is more than a job for me—it’s personal,” said Dr. Haynie. “My children are growing up in these schools, and that gives me an even deeper commitment to making sure every student here has the opportunities and support they need to succeed.”
That perspective is already shaping how he approaches the role—focused on building on the strong foundation already in place while continuing to move the district forward.
Since arriving in Oxford last summer, Dr. Haynie and his family have quickly become part of the community. From school events to extracurricular activities, they’ve
experienced firsthand what makes Oxford City Schools special.
“From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed,” he said. “There’s a strong sense of pride here, and it’s clear that this community cares deeply about its schools.”
Family is central to Dr. Haynie’s life. He and his wife, Brittany, have four children—Briley Kate, Briggs, Brooks, and Braxon—who are active in a variety of extracurricular activities. In his spare time, Dr. Haynie enjoys early-morning workouts, evening walks with his wife, reading leadership and history books, traveling with family, volunteering in the community and cheering on his favorite college football team.
While Dr. Haynie looks ahead, the district is also recognizing the leadership of Dr. Shannon Stanley, who will retire on June 30 after four years as superintendent and more than 30 years in Alabama public education. Dr. Stanley will continue working alongside Dr. Haynie during the transition, helping ensure continuity for students, staff, and families.
Dr. Stanley shared her confidence in the district’s new leader.
“Dr. Haynie is the right person to lead Oxford City Schools forward,” said Dr. Stanley. “He understands this community, values our people, and is committed to continuing the important work happening across our district.”
As Oxford City Schools moves forward, the focus remains the same: providing strong academic opportunities, supporting students and families, and building a future where every student has a place to succeed.
DR. TODD HAYNIE
OXFORD CITY SCHOOLS
C. E. HANNA TRANSFORMATION DAY
TTeachers have hundreds of valid reasons to be a little crazy. The staff at C.E. Hanna Elementary School has come up with a way to channel that craziness into a colorful, creative way of fulfilling their mission to educate children, taking a day each year to do so with an infusion of whimsy and fun.
For that one day, chosen completely at random, students walk into hallways and classrooms that have been transformed into something entirely different from when they left for home the day before.
This year’s version of what has become known as “Transformation Day” took place in February, introducing students to a few items once considered “cool,” but perhaps not so much anymore. Things like vinyl records, “Happy Days,” Rubik’s cubes, and Apollo space capsules.
Shannon Cochran, a sixth-grade social studies, research, and argumentative writing teacher, has taken on the unofficial role of leader during the annual tradition where staff come together to plan and create the theme. Creativity and learning are key. In past years, the hallways have been decorated with themes like sports, pirates, Mardi Gras, CSI investigations, and a hospital – all ideas chosen from a list submitted and then voted on by the teachers.
“This is our seventh year doing this, and they take a few months to plan,” Cochran said. “Last year, we had a travel theme where each student got passports that were stamped as they entered each class. This year, we are doing the decades. The kids will enter the central hub and find it all dressed up in the style of the 1950s. The first section is the 1960s, then 1970s. The short hall to the right is the 80s, and the 90s are at the end of the hall.”
The 14 fifth-grade and 12 sixth-grade teachers form teams of four, each consisting of one math, one social studies, one language arts, and one science teacher. Each team is assigned a specific decade. By the end of the day, students will have experienced highlights from those decades and learned about each subject’s plans, which have been tailored according to the team’s assigned decade.
BY BRIAN GRAVES
Mrs. Cochran’s JUNA class
Andrea Gay, a 5th-grade English Arts teacher, described what her class experienced. “Our grade focused on the 1970s,” Gay said. “They saw a slide show about 70s fashion, food, technology, games, and TV shows before reading a text and answering questions. I played songs from the 1970s while students worked.”
Cochran’s class time traveled back to the 1980s. “My students had a choice of things from the 80s,” Cochran explained. “We have an English Language Arts standard that covers research, creating digital products, and presenting them. So, we used topics like toys from the 80s, music from the 80s, the Cold War, fashion in the 80s, and MTV. They had to research the one they chose and create a digital presentation. They presented their projects to the class the following week.”
And it was all encased in an environment of fun and surprise.
When asked who has the most fun – teachers or students – Cochran’s class answered in unison, “Teachers!”
“We always do this at a different time of year, and the kids are always so excited,” Cochran said. “These kids work hard the whole time they are at school, and we want to do something to keep them excited about learning. All year, we try to make our lessons as engaging as we can, and when they walk into school on this day, the engagement is 100 percent.”
While the students believe the teachers have the most fun, that is certainly not the motivation behind all their work to make the special day happen.
“I do this every year because I love seeing the look on the students’ faces when they are surprised that morning. They often ask, ‘You did this for us?,’” Gay said. “It is worth the late night, burns from hot glue, and sore muscles from climbing ladders and moving furniture.”
Cochran echoes the thoughts of her C.E. Hanna colleagues. “I love doing anything that makes learning fun for my students,” Cochran said. “The kids love for the hallways to be decorated and for their entire day to follow a theme. It is not something we can do often, so we try to go all out once a year.”
Syprina Brown and Cameron Wells
Andrea Gay
Patrick Hutchings, Tyler Houston, Alaina Fisher
Kemberly Haynes, Lana Turner
Alabama
and
Senator Keith Kelley, Alabama Representative Steve Hurst,
Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter visited CREATE in March for a guided tour.
OXFORD CITY SCHOOLS EDUCATION FOUNDATION’S ANNUAL EDIBLE EVENING FOR EDUCATION
This event is a community favorite where we all gather to celebrate our students and dine with local restaurants that provide food samples for attendees to enjoy. The vendors for 2026: Olive Garden, Jim ‘N Nicks BBQ, Chicken Salad Chick, Cutter’s Pizzeria, Texas Roadhouse, WM Grocery, Chick-fil-A, Kona Ice, and Coca-Cola. Entertainment was provided by: OHS Yellow Jacket Golden Groove Jazz Band, Jacket Sing-sations, and the OHS Drama Department.
OXFORD HIGH STUDENTS GAIN REAL-WORLD SKILLS AT PROFESSIONAL DINING EXPERIENCE
Twenty-eight Oxford High School students recently stepped beyond the classroom and into a real-world setting during the school’s annual Professional Dining Experience, an event designed to prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond.
The experience began with a half-day training led by the Arts Council of Oxford, where students participated in hands-on instruction focused on essential professional skills. Throughout the session, students learned how to confidently make business introductions, engage in meaningful networking conversations, dress for success, properly tie a tie, and demonstrate appropriate manners and dining etiquette. The training emphasized not just what to do, but how to carry themselves with confidence and professionalism in any setting.
On Monday, March 9, students had the opportunity to apply those newly learned skills during a formal dinner held in the ballroom of Ken and Jenny Howell at Auto Custom Carpets in Oxford. The elegant setting provided the perfect backdrop for students to practice in a realistic, high-expectation environment. As an added bonus the students also had an opportunity to watch the Howell’s perform a ballroom dance number.
The evening featured a delicious, thoughtfully prepared meal by Cheyenne Mattox, Child Nutrition Director for Oxford City Schools, along with her dedicated staff. As students dined, they were paired with local professionals, allowing for authentic conversation and networking opportunities.
Representatives from Auto Custom Carpets, Honda, the Oxford Police Department, Warren Averett Accounting Firm, along with members of the
Arts Council and Oxford City Schools officials, served as table hosts. These professionals engaged students in discussions about career paths, workplace expectations, and the importance of professionalism. Students practiced introducing themselves, maintaining eye contact, asking thoughtful questions, and participating in meaningful dialogue. These are skills that will serve them well in interviews, internships, and future careers.
“This experience goes far beyond table manners,” said Patricia Jacks, President of the Arts Council of Oxford. “We are helping students build confidence, communicate effectively, and understand how to present themselves in professional environments. These are skills that will open doors for them long after high school.”
Vikki Sturkie, Business Education teacher at Oxford High School and organizer of the event, emphasized the long-term impact of the experience. “Our goal is to expose students to real-world expectations and give them the confidence to succeed in any professional setting,” she said. “When students can sit at a table, introduce themselves, hold a conversation, and present themselves well, it sets them apart. These are life skills that will benefit them far beyond high school.”
The professional dining experience reflects Oxford High School’s commitment to equipping students with practical life skills and meaningful real-world exposure. By partnering with local businesses and community leaders, the school continues to ensure students are not only academically prepared, but also socially and professionally ready for what lies ahead.
Events like this highlight the strength of the Oxford community and its shared investment in developing the next generation of leaders.
BY VIKKI F. STURKIE, BUSINESS EDUCATION, OXFORD CITY SCHOOLS
A SECOND HOME
BARBARA LANDERS FINDS FRIENDSHIP AT THE SENIOR CENTER
BBarbara Landers has been going to the Oxford Senior Center for almost two years, and her one regret is that it could have been longer.
“I was stubborn after my husband died,” Landers said, spending a morning with some of her newfound friends at the center.
She has lived in Oxford ever since she was a teenager—“a few years ago,” she joked.
“I’m not ashamed of my age, I just don’t want to tell it,” Landers said with a reluctant laugh and a much younger tone than someone who has seen much of a century. “I don’t care for anybody to know what it is, but I’d just rather not admit it.”
Landers said her childhood was normal, growing up with her parents, Arlen and Myrtle Williamson, her brother Arlen Jr., and her sister Doris.
“We played in the streets, stayed out in the yard, skated, rode bicycles, and all the things children did back then,” she said.
“I went to school at Oxford,” Landers said. “I was there when they moved into what was then the new building, and all three of my kids went to school in Oxford.”
She and her husband, James—who passed away in 2022—were married for 69 years. They moved to the family’s Smith Street address some 60 years ago while both worked at Blue Mountain Industries.
“After retirement, we were just homebodies and enjoyed going to visit the kids and watching when they played ball,” Landers said. “That was about it. We did nothing fantastic but enjoyed every minute.”
BY BRIAN GRAVES
She has been attending Coldwater Baptist Church for a few months since Antioch Baptist Church at Bynum closed last year, and she recommends the next generation do better by “getting close to the Lord.”
Even with her husband, parents, and siblings gone, Landers still has a big family with daughters Sheila Ervin and Donna Mitchell, and son Dearl Landers; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
“I love them all,” she quickly adds after taking the family roll call.
She still enjoys cooking, but “nothing special.”
“I like country cooking,” Landers said. “I still cook for myself. Not as much as I used to, but if I take a notion to have something, I go to the kitchen and cook it.”
She said the Oxford of today is much better than it once was.
“I think the growth has been great, and we have so many more things to do,” Landers said. “This senior center is one of the greatest things they’ve ever done. I used to just sit at home, not enjoying anything. A friend of mine got me to do yoga at the library, and I did that for about a year. She kept at me to come to the senior center, and now it’s the ordinary thing to get up and come here. The people here are friendly, and the staff is great. They’ll do anything they can for you. I’d advise anyone who has lost someone or is looking for something to do to come here.”
Often she stays until lunch, but sometimes she extends her visit to play a few games. Then it’s back home.
“I’ve really just lived a nice, normal life,” Landers said.
HISTORY
THE OXFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
SSince Oxford’s incorporation in 1852, the Oxford Police Department has evolved from a oneman operation into a modern, regional leader in public safety. What began with a single town marshal, responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining order, collecting fines, and overseeing the town jail, has grown into a fully staffed department committed to excellence. The story of Oxford’s police force reflects the growth of the community itself, shaped by changing laws, developing infrastructure, and the service of dedicated men and women across generations.
When Oxford was incorporated in February 1852, the town charter empowered the new council to appoint a marshal. In these earliest days, the head of the police department was exclusively referred to as the “town marshal,” a title that reflected the broad scope of his authority. The marshal served as the community’s primary enforcer of the law, blending responsibilities that today would span multiple departments. He maintained public order, collected taxes and fines, served warrants, oversaw the jail, managed stray livestock, served as health officer, and handled other general municipal duties. The earliest reference naming Oxford’s marshal dates 1873 naming James Madison Hays.
The town marshal was appointed annually, by the city council. As Oxford grew, the police force expanded to include a night watchman and a bailiff, positions added gradually as the town’s needs developed. An 1882 article in the Scottsboro Citizen recorded the town marshal’s salary at $50 per month, providing a glimpse into early municipal operations. The title evolved gradually in the early 1900s, when the marshal began to be referred to as the “police chief,” with both terms used interchangeably until the 1920s. By that time, the role had become more formalized and professionalized, and the community increasingly referred to its top law enforcement officer simply as the “chief.”
Oxford’s first permanent jail stood on Spring Street, now the site of a parking lot. Between 1905 and 1910, a small brick building, formerly a warehouse, was converted to the use of the town jail. The building was later acquired by Hubble Tool Specialties and eventually demolished.
BY HUNTER C. GENTRY
In 1952, the city repurposed the former Oxford Elementary School at 100 East Choccolocco Street into city hall, housing the police department and a newly constructed jail. The basement, once the school cafeteria, was converted into a facility with five two-tiered cells and a women’s block. Pushbutton-operated fixtures were installed to reduce the ability of inmates to flood the cells. Court proceedings, limited to misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, took place upstairs. The department operated from this location until 2009, when Oxford opened a modern $10.3 million headquarters at 600 Stanley Merrill Drive, west of downtown. The new facility includes updated jail space, administrative offices, and municipal court. In 2019, Oxford advanced its public safety capabilities with the opening of the East Metro Area Crime Center (EMACC), located between Oxford City Hall and the Oxford Public Library. Staffed by regional law enforcement professionals and managed by the Oxford Police Department, EMACC has significantly reduced crime through coordinated intelligence and rapid-response capabilities. The center also serves as an emergency operations headquarters during major weather threats.
The role of Public Safety Director was created in 2007 by Mayor Leon Smith, with Stanley Merrill serving as the first director until his retirement in 2010. The position remained vacant until 2022, when Mayor Alton Craft appointed Police Chief Bill Partridge to the role. The director oversees the police department, fire department, and EMS paramedic services.
Over the course of Oxford’s history, twenty-seven known men have served as head of the police department, though records from 1852 to 1872 remain incomplete. Their ages and backgrounds varied widely, with Francis Marion Gardner becoming the youngest chief at age twenty-six and William C. Borders serving as the oldest at sixty-nine. Many of these leaders distinguished themselves in public service beyond Oxford. James B. Farmer served as the last sheriff of Benton County, the predecessor to Calhoun County; William Pinkney Knighton later became sheriff of Calhoun County; and Aden Hamilton Draper previously held the position of police chief in Fort Valley, Georgia. Others, including Henry Martin Burrow, expanded his public safety contributions by serving as police chief in Piedmont. Francis Marion Gardner went on to serve as constable in both Calhoun and Jefferson Counties.
Military service was also a defining characteristic of several chiefs: James B. Farmer and Martin Hudson Fowler were veterans of the Civil War; Lonnie Bernard Lybrand served in World War I; Charles Robert Hodges and William Oscar Walden were World War II veterans; and Walden also served during the Korean War; and Daniel Phipps is a veteran of the United States Army Reserve and an active member of the National Guard. Collectively, their service reflects a long legacy of civic commitment and leadership.
While the department’s earliest leadership was exclusively male, three pioneering women later shaped the path for future generations of female officers. The first, Sarah Holmes Bobo (Tipton) (1933 – 2022), was hired in 1958 and became Oxford’s first female police officer. Assigned to school safety patrol, she enforced traffic rules and safeguarded students and drivers, serving with the same enforcement authority as her male counterparts. In 1960, Fannie McClellan Jenkins
(1915 – 2000) joined the force as Oxford’s second female officer. The third woman to join the department was Carol Ann Friar (Skinner), hired in 1977. Together, these women opened doors and set standards that helped shape the department’s future.
Chiefs to have had the distinguished honor to serve more than ten years include Henry Martin Burrow- 10 years, Charles Robert Hodges- 10 years, William Oscar Walden- 14 years, Stanley Norris Merrill- 27 years, and William (Bill) Partridge- 19 years.
Throughout its history, the Oxford Police Department has endured the tragic loss of three officers who died in the line of duty. Chief Robert Elonzo Sparks (1879 – 1948), who had previously served as a patrolman and assistant chief, was shot and killed on May 7, 1948, during an arrest at the R.C. Cobb Filling Station & Grocery. Captain William Henry Beard (1914 – 1977), a longtime officer and community leader, was killed on August 19, 1977, while transporting a suspect wanted for grand larceny. The most recent loss occurred on February 16, 2007, when Lieutenant Dexter Lewis Holcomb Jr. (1960 – 2007) was struck and killed by a runaway school bus while directing after-school traffic. His death prompted the passage of the Lt. Dexter Holcomb Act in 2012, which requires all Alabama school bus drivers providing school-related transportation to undergo a physical examination every two years. These officers’ service and sacrifice remain an enduring part of Oxford’s history and a solemn reminder of the risks carried by those who protect the community.
Photo courtesy of the Oxford Police Department
Captain William Beard writing up an accident report on Hale Street. ca. mid-1960s
OFFICIAL REGISTER OF OXFORD POLICE CHIEFS
JOSEPH MADISON HAYES 1873 – 1878
Capt. JAMES B. FARMER 1878 – 1879
Mr. ANDREWS 1879 – 1880
Capt. MARTIN HUDSON FOWLER 1880 – 1882
FRANCIS MARION GARDNER 1882 – 1885
ADEN HAMILTON DRAPER 1885 – 1889, 1897 – 1899
JAMES M. EASON 1889 – 1892
CHANEY JOHNSON DODD 1892 – 1895, 1900 – 1903, 1908
JOHN HOWARD DRAPER 1908 – 1915
JOSEPH S. BARTLETT 1895 – 1897
WILLIAM PINKNEY KNIGHTON 1903 – 1908
CHARLES MACK PARRIS 1915 – 1918
HENRY MARTIN BURROW 1918 – 1928
WILLIAM C. BORDERS 1928 – 1936
MARTIN LUTHER GAINES 1936 – 1938
EARNEST GROCE WILSON 1938 – 1941
LONNIE BERNARD LYBRAND 1941 – 1943, 1943 – 1947
JOHN E. WHITE 1943
ERNEST A. KIRK 1947
ROBERT ELONZO SPARKS 1947 – 1948
GEORGE DEWEY BILLINGSLEY 1948 – 1952
CHARLES ROBERT HODGES 1952 – 1962
WILLIAM OSCAR WALDEN 1962 – 1976
LOYCE (GERALD) OWENS 1976 – 1980
STANLEY NORRIS MERRILL 1980 – 2007
WILLIAM (BILL) PARTRIDGE 2007 – 2026
DANIEL PHIPPS 2026 – Present
Photo courtesy of the Public Library of Anniston Calhoun County
