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OXFORD ACCESS Oxford, Alabama

2025

HOVAC

OXFORD’S NEW K-9 OFFICER

OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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4 MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR 8 PHOTOS: A LEAGUE OF OUR OWN 10 SPOTLIGHT: JUSTIN DANELUTT 14 PHOTOS: PARD VOLLEYBALL, SOCCER, FLAG FOOTBALL 22 OXFORDFEST 26 CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS AT OXFORDFEST 28 K-9 HAVOC 31 MESSAGE FROM THE OXFORD POLICE CHIEF 32 ANNUAL SMOKE ALARM BLITZ 35 MESSAGE FROM THE OXFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT 36 NPFL VISITS OXFORD 42 OXFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY 46 A NEW CHAPTER: PRIMARY & WELLNESS CARE IN OXFORD 50 INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT: WELLBORN CABINET 56 WELCOME TO OXFORD - NEW BUSINESS OPENINGS 60 SPOTLIGHT: CUTTER’S PIZZERIA 65 OXFORD COMMUNITY CHORUS HOLIDAY CONCERT 66 OXFORD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER - NEW SHOWS 70 LARRY MARTIN - SPECIAL LECTURE AND GALLERY TOUR 71 UPDATE: OXFORD ARTS COUNCIL 72 OXFORD PARAMEDICS - A TOUCH OF PINK 78 UPDATE: CHOCCOLOCCO CREEK WATERSHED

VOL 9. ISSUE 4

2025

CONTENTS 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

80 TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: ANNA WEBB 84 OHS JACKET MEDIA 88 SPOTLIGHT: ROBERT POORE

92 PHOTOS: TABLE TENNIS TOURNAMENT 98 HISTORY: OXFORD MAYORS

OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

MESSAGE from the OXFORD MAYOR Dear citizens: I hope that you are as excited about the final months of the year as I am. We are looking forward to sharing many of our family-friendly fall and winter events with you and our visitors. With winter approaching, don’t forget to mark our annual Festival of Lights drive-thru Christmas lights show at Choccolocco Park on your calendar. We have more activities coming to Santa’s Village, with holiday treats, skating, and fun for all ages. If you are traveling through the park, be mindful of our crews who have begun installing lights and other attractions along the walking track, in the parking lots, and on the roads around the area. Oxford Parks and Recreation is gearing up for the 2026 athletic calendar, which is giving us more opportunities to highlight our recreational facilities to teams and organizations around the world. Our youth sports leagues are growing – we have over a thousand young athletes participating in the sports that we sponsor. We are also getting ready to host more championships, more tournaments, and even more events at Choccolocco Park and Oxford Lake Park. I am also proud that our emergency services are ranked as some of the best departments in Alabama. Our police, fire, and emergency health services departments work together to keep Oxford safe, so I encourage you to join me in thanking them for their hard work in our city. Historic Downtown Oxford is continuing to be a vital part of the city. We have many events in our downtown parks, and the Oxford Performing Arts Center is attracting visitors from around the world for competitions, concerts, and other cultural events. There are many opportunities to learn in Downtown Oxford, especially at the Oxford Public Library. They have a chess club, yoga, art, and quilting, just to name a few of the services they provide to kids of all ages, so I encourage you to stop by, go online, or call them to see if they have something for you. Finally, I hope that all our citizens will continue to do their part to make Oxford the gem of Alabama. We will begin new road improvement projects in the coming months, so make sure you follow us on social media for updates about detours and road closures. The city council and I hope that you have a wonderful holiday season, and don’t forget to call 311, our non-emergency helpline, if you have any questions or concerns. Kindest regards, Mayor Alton Craft

OX F O R D C I T Y H A L L • 1 4 5 H A M R I C D R I V E , E A S T OX F O R D , A L A B A M A 3 6 2 0 3 4

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Oxford Senior Citizens Center enjoyed a visit from Wes Wyatt - WBRC’s First Alert Chief Meteorologist!

OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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A League of Our Own Soccer Camp

OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

JUSTIN DANELUTT CHOCCOLOCCO PARK’S RISING STAR

Justin Danelutt coaches the one team that is at Choccolocco Park on a daily basis, including many nights and weekends. And if the team is successful, most people probably don’t notice. “That just means we’re doing our job,” said Danelutt, who is the leader of the park’s grounds maintenance crew serving as director of grounds and athletic fields. Danelutt started his work at Cider Ridge Golf Course in 2011, began work at the park in 2015, and officially started working for the city of Oxford in December 2024.

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“The grounds maintenance crew maintains the 180 acres of dirt and turf, the multi-purpose fields, all the common areas, all the fields, the disc golf course, and the cross-country track,” he said. “We maintain it all.” That work is done by a team of five full-time groundskeepers, a housekeeping coordinator and housekeeper, an equipment technician and assistant, and two assistant superintendents. “It really never stops here,” Danelutt said. “When there’s a little slump, that’s when we do a lot of our work, including getting the fields recovered from heavy use, especially after May.” The crew is also the one seen during games, making sure the fields stay dry during rain. “That can be a little bit of a headache if we have to wait for very long and the wind picks up and it starts raining on top of the tarp,” he said. “Water is not light.” Danelutt says he keeps watch of weather radar, even on a clear day, because pop-up rain showers can form at any time; and the crew can be ready at a moment’s notice. Sports are no stranger to Danelutt, who played football and baseball in high school before taking his first job at Cider Ridge. “I started out weed eating and mowing greens and worked my way up,” he said. Those efforts have paid off for both Choccolocco Park and Danelutt, as he will be recognized in January during the Sports Field Management Association’s 2026 conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Danelutt will be one of five individuals receiving Sports Field Management Magazine’s “Rising Stars Award,” given to those under 40 who have been in the industry for less than 10 years. Nominees are evaluated based on professional accomplishments, leadership, community and industry involvement, and philanthropic efforts. Danelutt was nominated for the award by Choccolocco Park director Billy Thompson, saying, “Justin loves to take a backseat to everyone, but when it’s all said and done, no one is more deserving. We have some of the best all-natural fields around, and it’s hands down because of his leadership. He puts this facility in a position to succeed. That’s what you want in a star.” “This is a huge accomplishment,” Danelutt said. “But it’s not just an award for me. It reflects directly on my staff. If it weren’t for them, the maintenance of this park wouldn’t be the way it is.”

BY BRIAN GRAVES OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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PARD VOLLEYBALL 14

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

PARD VOLLEYBALL 16

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

PARD SOCCER

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

PARD FLAG FOOTBALL 20

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

The 2025 Oxfordfest ended its 39th annual festival on the first Saturday in October with a crowd estimated by the Oxford Police Department to be 30,000 on Main and Choccolocco Streets in historic downtown Oxford. The day-long festival, held yearly on the first Saturday of October, was conceived by and continues to be organized by the Oxfordfest Committee, an all-volunteer team of residents who plan year-round for and work to set up the festival along with the Oxford Christmas Parade.

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OXFORDFEST IS A YEAR-LONG PROCESS

This year’s Oxfordfest hosted more than 300 vendors with crafts and products, more than 30 food vendors, kids’ rides, and eight free live performances. The demand for those positions required the Oxfordfest Committee to start a wait list several months earlier, as the demand for vendor slots continues to grow every year, making it one of the most popular festivals of its kind in the region. The festival is also aided each year by city departments, including Oxford Public Works, Oxford Police Department, Oxford Fire Department, and Oxford Health Systems EMS. Police Chief Bill Partridge, director of public safety, said planning for the next year begins on the Monday following the Saturday event. “We come up with an incident action plan, and we adapt as things progress through the year,” Partridge said. “We figure out if it’s going to grow any and where we may need camera access, police officers, and barricades. The main thing is ensuring the venue and perimeter are safe for people to be on foot downtown. It’s a lot of planning.” Partridge added that there is an effort to keep security from being overpowering.“We want it to be visible enough to deter anybody from doing anything stupid,” Partridge said. “You will always see our officers being open to speaking with everyone in a friendly and welcoming way.” Mayor Alton Craft also noted the work done to facilitate a day when the town’s population is essentially doubled. “Preparing for events where we have this many people requires a lot of hard work, and it is a tribute to all of our city departments that they have proven their ability to handle these types of situations,” Craft said. “I am really proud of them.” “I want to thank all the vendors for coming and all the city staff who do so much hard work,” Craft added. “This would not happen at all without the work of the Oxfordfest Committee, an amazing group of people who have been doing this voluntarily for 39 years. It shows you the pride and love they have for their community, and we appreciate that very much.” Registrations for the 40th annual Oxfordfest vendor positions will open on May 1, 2026.

BY BRIAN GRAVES OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

CRAFTS FOR CHRISTMAS ON DISPLAY AT OXFORDFEST, 2025 Local color is a theater term that describes crowd scenes where townspeople gather around the main action on stage. On October 4th, a different kind of local color was on display. That stage was Oxfordfest 2025, where artists and craftsmen showcased their works. In the theater, attention is on the main characters as townspeople surround them. At Oxfordfest, each artist and crafter was the star in their own booth. Their audiences were those individuals who stopped to see their creations. I joined the crowd at Oxfordfest this year with a special interest in crafts. Several years ago, I became a fan of Oxfordfest after seeing a creative craft that was hard to miss: recycled lamps with newly designed lampshades and bases. Not only did they glow at night, but they also shed new light on the subject of movies by featuring memorable scenes. AN ARTISTIC FOCUS ON CHRISTMAS Sherry Brady, from Ashville, AL, has created decorations for all seasons over her 15 years of retirement, but the Christmas season inspires her to craft a wider variety of items. This year, Brady was able to reconnect with her customers from last year’s Oxfordfest through her wooden works. Her wares are eye-catching and very interesting, but she is modest. “Just call me a hobbyist,” she said. “When you have lived as long as I have, you learn to do a lot of things.” Indeed, Brady’s booth was filled with white angels, reindeer, “Rudy’s Reindeer” (Rudolph’s sons) as she calls them, table Christmas trees, and Santas with flowing white beards. Her wooden products are made from plywood and house paint.

Since retiring as an X-ray technician, crafting has become her pastime. She creates wooden art and fabric pieces for winter indoor displays and yard art for warmer weather. “If it makes me happy, I make it,” she declared. “I work out of my garage, but it’s time to move to a studio.” The display “Crochet Concepts” offered teachable moments for younger visitors. “Crocheting began to die out at some point,” said Kim Drain of Hokes Bluff, AL, who was showing hats, scarves, sweaters, and a lounging robe made of yarn. “But I think it’s made a comeback. I was glad to talk to the teenage girls and a young boy who seemed fascinated that my items were made with different movements of the hands.” She emphasized that handmade crochet items are very durable. “I learned the craft from my grandmother.” Nearby, children and young adults gathered around the “Stonegate Candle Creations” booth run by Lavonna and Dan Lary from Woodstock, GA. The couple has been in the candle-making business for 30 years and has showcased their craft in 20 states. With granulated candle wax and a variety of colors in pots, Lavonna handed each person a jar and showed them how to create their own candle designs with a scoop. The results: scented, long-burning candles. “We enjoy participating in Oxfordfest,” Lavonna said, “Alabama is Dan’s home state.” Each display sparked curiosity and discovery. Whether Christmas enthusiasts were seeking gifts or decorations, their craft purchases made them owners of one-of-akind items.

BY HERVEY FOLSOM 26

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

K-9 HAVOC WITH THE OXFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT

Breed: Yellow Labrador Retriever Age: 1½ years Birthday: January 31

The Oxford Police Department has welcomed a new explosive detection and tracking K-9, Havoc, who serves alongside Officer Schoening. Havoc was officially sworn in and received his ballistic vest and badge in August 2025. Specially selected from Global K9 in Opelika, Alabama, Havoc underwent extensive, specialized training focused on developing his detection skills and performance in the field. He brings to the force a keen sense of smell, impressive agility, and a calm, confident temperament. Havoc’s career goals include assisting with patrol duties, deterring criminal activity, and helping to de-escalate situations by encouraging compliance without the need for force. Off duty, Havoc loves spending time in the community, spreading smiles, and soaking up attention from his new Oxford family.

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Oxford Police Department Honor Guard 9/11 Memorial Service held in Liberty Park Sgt. Jeremy McCorkle State Flag Lt. Keith Stancil American Flag

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Oxford Police Department 600 Stanley Merrill Drive, Oxford, AL 36203

A MESSAGE FROM THE OXFORD POLICE CHIEF Dear Citizens of Oxford, As we approach the holiday season, I would like to take this opportunity to extend warm wishes and remind everyone to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions both at home and while shopping, and always have a family safety plan in place in case of an emergency. In the comfort of your homes, please ensure that you have adequate security measures in place. Verifying that doors and windows are locked, and maintaining a watchful eye on neighborhood activities are all steps that can contribute to a safer environment for your family. When venturing out to shop during this busy season, please exercise extra caution. Busy public areas can sometimes become attractive locations for suspicious activities. Remain aware of your surroundings, avoid distractions such as extended use of mobile devices in public, and, if possible, travel with a friend or family member. Trust your instincts—if something seems amiss, do not hesitate to seek help, and know we will have extra officers deployed in Oxford during the holiday shopping season. Should you observe any unusual or suspicious activities, please promptly report your concerns to the Oxford Police Department by phone or our OXPD app. Your help is vital in ensuring that our community remains safe and secure for everyone during this festive time of year. On behalf of the OXPD, we wish you all a joyful, healthy, and safe holiday season. Let us work together to create a secure and festive environment for every member of our community. We are here to help! First Class Protection and Service. Warm regards, Bill Partridge Chief of Police Director of Public Safety

OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

OXFORD FIRE DEPARTMENT ANNUAL SMOKE ALARM BLITZ

Members of the Oxford Fire Department manned their trucks for tragedy prevention rather than tragedy response as they conducted their annual Smoke Alarm Blitz in October. The firefighters canvassed several local neighborhoods equipped with 300 smoke detectors, tools, and free advice as part of the 2025 National Fire Prevention Week. The department has been recognized several times over the years for record-breaking numbers in Alabama for this service. OFD Captain Jonathan Roberts explained that statistics showing smoke detectors were not working in most Oxford house fires, which led to both injury and death, have led to the firefighters’ passion to be proactive in protecting the citizens they serve. “The rate of death drops 51 percent for a home with a working smoke alarm,” Roberts said. The recent blitz also led many to understand that their homes may need more than one smoke detector, which should be strategically placed. “There should be one in every occupied bedroom, the hallway, ten feet away from the kitchen, and three feet away from the bathroom,” Roberts said. “Thirty years ago, you had almost 17 minutes to get out of a house during a fire,” Roberts said, “Now it’s down to about three minutes. That starts the moment a smoke detector goes off.” The Oxford Fire Department’s fire safety efforts continued throughout October as they visited all the Oxford schools. Accompanied by OFD mascots Marshal from Paw Patrol and Sparky the Fire Dog, they provided youngsters with home safety tips in a fun and engaging way. The Oxford Fire Department’s efforts to protect the citizens of Oxford are not limited to the yearly community blitz. Anyone who needs smoke detectors installed or tested, or more information about fire safety, can call the OFD at 256-831-3208.

BY BRIAN GRAVES 32

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Chief Gary Sparks spoke at the 9/11 Memorial Service on Thursday, September 11, held in Liberty Park. The Oxford Fire Department has taken the lead each year, inviting first responders from across the area to participate in this special remembrance of those who were lost during one of the most significant and tragic days in American history.

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Oxford Fire Department

A MESSAGE FROM THE OXFORD FIRE CHIEF

As we enter the holiday season, I want to take a moment to wish each of you a Happy Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year on behalf of the Oxford Fire Department. This is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, reflect on our blessings, and look ahead to a bright new year. We are truly blessed here in Oxford—with a caring community, dedicated first responders, and neighbors who look out for one another. This season is a reminder of just how special it is to live and work in a place where people come together to support and uplift one another. While we celebrate, I’d also like to remind everyone to keep fire safety at the top of your mind—especially during the colder months when fire risks increase. Many of our calls this time of year stem from cooking accidents and improper use of heating equipment. When preparing holiday meals, please stay in the kitchen while cooking, keep flammable items away from the stovetop, and never leave food unattended. If you’re using space heaters, keep them at least three feet away from anything that can burn, plug them directly into a wall outlet (not an extension cord), and always turn them off before going to bed or leaving the room. Your attentiveness can make all the difference in keeping your home and loved ones safe. From all of us at the Oxford Fire Department, thank you for your continued support and for helping us keep our community safe.

Chief Gary Sparks

FIRE CHIEF • ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF • FIRE MARSHAL • 256-278-3290

OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

COMMUNITY NPFL HAS SUCCESSFUL 2025 OXFORD VISIT READIES FOR 2026 RETURN

The National Professional Fishing League made a point to connect with their Oxford hosts during their second consecutive visit for the Logan Martin Lake tournament — and they’re already looking forward to returning in 2026. On September 25, anglers gathered at Quintard Mall with their boats and equipment for a hands-on meet-and-greet with local fishing fans. Members of the Oxford Fire Department were also on hand to help make the event a success. The day before, several NPFL anglers took time to visit two other special groups, sharing stories, smiles, and plenty of fishing talk ahead of the big weekend on the lake. NPFL Vice President of Partnerships Paul Benson escorted anglers Kyle Glasgow, Sean Alverez, John Bosley, and Hunter Sales, along with their fully-equipped championship fishing boats, to Hope Christian Academy on Friendship Road. More than 200 students each had the opportunity to meet the anglers and get in the boats, as both they and the anglers had fun sitting in the boats, with many receiving souvenir lures and having photos made. A special school assembly was held where the four anglers told their life stories and encouraged the students to follow their dreams much as they had since their younger days. HCA principal Nick Burns said having the NPFL anglers visit the school provided an opportunity too good to pass up. “I had one of our kids tell me they have never experienced anything like this,” Burns said. “There may be some kid who hasn’t had the opportunity to fish a lot. They meet one of these

BY BRIAN GRAVES 36

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

Anglers visited with residents at Rainbow Omega and went on a tour of the facility

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Paul Benson spoke with the staff and students at Hope Christian Academy

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fishermen, decide it is something they might want to try, and learn something they might fall in love with. Any opportunity we can provide our kids with, like this, we love to do it. This is family-friendly, and it means so much to us that these guys would take the time to come out here and do this.” NPFL anglers Keith Bardolf, Will Harkins, and Darrell Roberton spent their morning visiting with the residents of Rainbow Omega. They took the time for handshakes and hugs, shared stories, answered questions, and offered a tour of one of the boats that will be used for the upcoming competition. The National Professional Fishing League has announced it will return for a third consecutive year to Lake Logan Martin with competition to be held June 25-27, 2026. In the past two seasons, the NPFL has started the year at Logan Martin (2024) and finished the year at Logan Martin (2025). Each time, the lake produced strong numbers and tight competition. In 2026, The league will return to Lincoln’s Landing — one of the premier tournament facilities in the nation — at the season’s midpoint. There will be bass action in the shallows, in the depths, and in-between, all on a variety of baits and using a multitude of methods. “The city of Oxford is proud to once again partner with the National Professional Fishing League and looks forward to hosting them for a third time in 2026,” said Oxford mayor Alton Craft. “This group of talented anglers not only have a positive economic impact but also make a lasting impact through their outreach. Their visits to Hope Christian Academy and Rainbow Omega brought encouragement, joy, and inspiration to students and residents alike. We are pleased to welcome back this positive, family-friendly organization that brings together good sportsmanship, faith, community spirit, and the fun of fishing. Oxford looks forward to rolling out the welcome mat for the NPFL.”

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

UPDATE OXFORD LIBRARY You can expect lots of literary fun at the library! Miss Beth leads fun programs to connect with our community’s kids. For example, the Avonlea Society is a classy, classics book and film club for teens! Every month we read a different classic novel and experience it with our literary experience packets. Then we meet to munch on treats, watch an adaptation of the book, and discuss both! (Ages 11-17, guardians must accompany children 14 and under.) The Avonlea Society meets on the second Sunday of each month at 1:15. Ask Miss Beth for your literary experience packet! OPL has partnered with Oxford City Schools to create the Discovery Series, which is an exciting grouping of performances and programs that encourage discovery and learning. So far, the library has had animal shows, science shows, magic shows, musical performances, and more as a part of this fun series of events. In December and January, we are expecting to have a lot of learning fun with The Science Lady and the Barry Stewart Mann, storyteller. Join us on the first Monday of each month at 5:00; the library will also be giving away free clear plastic backpacks to attendees! For more information about upcoming Discover Series events, please visit www.oxfordpl.org/discover. Kids don’t have all the fun at OPL, though! Join us on the third Monday of each month for Book Club at 10:00 and 3:00. The club reads an acclaimed book during each month, then they get together to discuss the book of the month. Come to the library to check out your copy while they last! To see the schedule of upcoming books the club will discuss, please visit www.oxfordpl.org/bookclub. In December, the club will be reading Christmas Karol by Faith Moore, and in January, they will discuss The Murmur of Bees by Sofia Segovia. Join us! One of the most important functions that the library provides to the community is informational resources. Regular internet searching simply doesn’t provide accurate information. Use library resources to ensure that the information you find is information you can use. Please visit oxfordpl.org/online-resources for online access to legitimate information. • There are over 100,000 ebooks to choose from! Download or stream directly to your device. E-Book availability is for age ranges from early childhood through adulthood. • Newspaper Archives offers access to newspapers from 1607 to today. Research news topics that are important to you. • Knowledge City offers over 18,000 online courses that help build core competencies, computer skills, and education. A certificate of completion will be awarded at the end of every course. • The most powerful medicine in the world is knowledge, but wrong information can be hazardous to your health. The Merck Manuals allow you to find the information to help you.

(256) 831-1750 • 110 EAST 6TH STREET, OXFORD 42

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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• Gale Legal Forms welcomes you to the most extensive free forms site available to library patrons. Thousands of legal forms are available with more forms being added daily. Official, State Specific, Federal, Business, Personal, Real Estate and General forms covering hundreds of legal subjects and issues. • Achieve your educational and career goals with educational resources—including more than 1,000 tutorials, practice exams, and eBooks—for basic skills mastery, academic success, job preparation, and career advancement with the Learning Express Library. • The Alabama Virtual Library provides teachers, students, and citizens with online access to essential library and information resources. It is primarily a group of online databases that have magazine, journal, and newspaper articles for research. Through the AVL, an equitable core of information sources is available to every student and citizen in Alabama, raising the level of excellence in schools and communities across the state. Your Oxford Public Library offers many ways to better yourself and connect to your community. Check out the library’s calendar at www.oxfordpl.org/calendar. You can sign up for newsletters there, too!

OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

A NEW CHAPTER IN OXFORD DELIVERING QUALITY PRIMARY CARE AND WELLNESS TO OXFORD

Access to quality healthcare close to home has always been a cornerstone of strong communities. Now, Oxford residents have a new option designed with their well-being in mind. Oxford Health Systems Primary Care has officially opened its doors, offering both trusted primary care and innovative wellness services under one roof. Located conveniently at 1102 Luttrell Street, on the corner of Luttrell Street and East 6th Street, just up from Oxford City Hall, the clinic represents more than just another doctor’s office; it’s an investment in the community’s health, access to care, and future emergency medical readiness. “We wanted to create a place where patients feel known, heard, and cared for, ” said Dr. Carol R. Parks. “This isn’t a rushed, impersonal healthcare experience. It’s a model designed to give people the kind of care they deserve; thoughtful and patient-centered around their overall wellness.”

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BUILDING HEALTHIER LIVES THROUGH PRIMARY CARE The foundation of this clinic is strong, dependable primary care. Whether it’s managing a chronic illness, getting an annual physical, or treating a minor injury, patients can expect personal attention from a team that’s experienced and deeply invested in Oxford’s families. Comprehensive Primary Care Services include: Chronic Condition Management: Ongoing care for hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, COPD and asthma, thyroid disorders, high cholesterol, and more. Preventive Care: Annual wellness exams, health screenings, vaccinations and immunizations, sports and school physicals, and routine lab work to detect health issues early. Minor Injury Treatment: Care for cuts, sprains, bruises, minor fractures, insect bites, back pain, and other common injuries. These services are available in a welcoming environment that you can turn to not only when you’re sick, but also to maintain good health year-round. Preventive care, in particular, helps keep you healthy, prevents disease, and reduces the need for unnecessary hospital visits.

BEYOND TRADITIONAL MEDICINE: WELLNESS FOR THE WHOLE YOU What sets Oxford Health Systems Primary Care apart is its dual focus on primary care and proactive wellness. Wellness Services Include: IV Hydration Therapy: For those needing a quick boost of hydration, nutrients, and energy, whether recovering from a busy week, travel, or intense activity. These infusions deliver electrolytes and vitamins, including Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, NAD, Zinc, Glutathione, and more, directly into the bloodstream for faster absorption and enhanced effectiveness. GLP-1 & Peptide Therapy: A science-based approach to supporting weight management, appetite control, energy, and recovery. Peptide therapies can also help boost immunity, improve sleep, and optimize hormone balance. Botox® & Medical Aesthetics: Safe, minimally invasive options to smooth lines, refresh skin, and help patients look as good as they feel, all with natural, personalized results. InBody Body Composition Analysis: A quick, non-invasive scan that measures muscle mass, body fat, and hydration levels, giving patients powerful insights to guide their wellness and fitness goals.

BY TOM DIXON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH, OXFORD HEALTH SYSTEMS OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

A CLINIC THAT SUPPORTS THE BIGGER HEALTHCARE NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY While the primary mission of the clinic is to provide outstanding care, it also plays a critical role in supporting the delivery of emergency medical services to Oxford. Revenue generated from Oxford Health Systems Primary Care helps offset the costs of providing emergency medical services to the citizens of the City of Oxford through Oxford Health Systems Paramedics. That means that when someone chooses this clinic for their family’s care, they’re also helping strengthen Oxford’s emergency medical response system. “Every visit, every service, every patient contributes to a stronger, more resilient community,” Tom Dixon, Oxford Health Systems CEO, explained. “The clinic isn’t just for individual health, it’s a way for residents to invest in the well-being and safety of their neighbors.” As Dixon explained, “no matter if patients are seen at the clinic for sinus infections, if they come for routine wellness, or if they choose our providers for IV hydration or cosmetic procedures, the fact that we can provide excellent care to our Oxford citizens and friends, those that desire primary care and wellness, and then take the revenue generated and use it to assist with funding EMS services, that is a win-win situation for the people of Oxford.” This dual impact makes Oxford Health Systems’ model unique: it blends compassionate care with a sustainable approach to supporting vital community healthcare services. As other cities and communities struggle to provide healthcare services, such as EMS and ambulance transport services, Oxford is once again leading the way with an innovative “outside of the box” strategy to better care for our community!

A CONVENIENT AND TRUSTED PARTNER IN HEALTH The clinic is currently accepting new patients, with easy phone-based scheduling active. The clinic’s website will link you to appointment scheduling and provide easy access to other information. Contact Information: 1102 Luttrell Street, Oxford, AL 36203 256-470-9998 www.oxfordhealthsystems.org/primarycare

Whether you’re searching for a primary care provider who truly listens or exploring new ways to support your personal wellness, Oxford Health Systems Primary Care is here to serve. It’s healthcare built around accessibility, community, and long-term impact. This new chapter in Oxford’s healthcare landscape is more than a clinic; it’s a partnership with the people we serve. And yes, we absolutely plan to write many more chapters in the book as we work to ensure lasting, sustainable, comprehensive healthcare for the people of Oxford. Oxford Health Systems is world-class healthcare!

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THIS FOCUS ON WELLNESS MEANS PATIENTS DON’T JUST COME HERE WHEN SOMETHING’S WRONG; THEY COME HERE TO THRIVE. WHETHER SOMEONE DESIRES TO IMPROVE THEIR ENERGY, REACH FITNESS GOALS, OR SIMPLY TAKE BETTER CARE OF THEMSELVES, THE CLINIC OFFERS TOOLS AND GUIDANCE TO SUPPORT THEIR JOURNEY.

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INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT BY: W E L L B O R N C A B I N E T & C A L H O U N C O U N T Y E D C

WELLBORN CABINET OPENS NEW FACILITY IN OXFORD BRINGING JOBS AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES TO EAST ALABAMA

Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. is growing again — this time, with a new manufacturing facility right here in Oxford. The family-owned cabinet manufacturer, known for its commitment to craftsmanship and community, has officially opened the doors to its new First Haven facility, marking an exciting new chapter for both the company and the region. For more than six decades, Wellborn Cabinet has proudly manufactured quality cabinetry in Ashland, Alabama. Now, the company’s expansion into Oxford West Industrial Park will not only increase production capacity but also bring hundreds of new job opportunities to East Alabama. “Opening the First Haven facility is about more than growth — it’s about building opportunity,” said Paul Wellborn, President and Chairman of the Board for Wellborn Cabinet, Inc. “We aren’t just a family business; we’re a business of families. There are many generations of families that are employed at Wellborn Cabinet. As a company, the growth and success of our employees is at the heart of our mission. Wellborn Cabinet is committed to providing opportunities for our team members to learn, develop, and advance in their careers. We’ve always believed in investing in our people and our community. Oxford offers a wonderful place to continue that tradition.” Representing a $28 million investment, the 250,000-square-foot new facility will focus on state-of-the-art manufacturing, pairing modern technology with the same craftsmanship and attention to detail that Wellborn Cabinet is known for across the country. The company says the Oxford site will help meet growing demands while allowing operations to stay true to Wellborn’s made-in-America heritage.

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“We’re excited to welcome new team members to the Wellborn family,” said Pres Jenkins, Director of Human Resources. “Our goal is to create stable, long-term careers for people who want to be part of something lasting — something built with pride.” Community leaders have praised the investment, calling it a boost for the local economy and a vote of confidence in Alabama’s skilled workforce. Larry Deason, Chairman of the Calhoun County Economic Development Council, shared at the company’s ribbon cutting that a “project like this represents the kind of investment that continues to drive opportunity, innovation, and prosperity across our region. Their commitment to sustainability and community values aligns perfectly with the vision we have for this area.” “We’re incredibly thankful to have such a strong, family-owned company that values its people as much as its product,” said Don Hopper, Calhoun County Economic Development Council’s Executive Director. “Wellborn Cabinet will provide highquality jobs and lasting opportunities for our community for years to come.” Hiring for the new facility is already underway, with opportunities available in various areas, including production, logistics, maintenance, and management. Wellborn Cabinet emphasizes a supportive, family-oriented work culture with on-the-job training and opportunities for growth. “At the end of the day, this is about people,” Paul Wellborn added. “When we grow, our community grows. That’s what makes this moment so special.” With the opening of the First Haven facility, Wellborn Cabinet continues to honor its reputation of craftsmanship while shaping a strong future for generations to come — right here in Alabama.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Wellborn Cabinet offers competitive benefits. A comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits that ensure employees and their families are secure and supported. Visit www.wellborn.com/about/career/ to learn more about career opportunities with Wellborn Cabinet.

A LEGACY BUILT IN ALABAMA Founded in 1961 by brothers Paul and Doug Wellborn in Ashland, Alabama, Wellborn Cabinet began as a small, 3,200-square-foot shop making affordable kitchen and bath cabinets. What started as a family operation focused on quality and value quickly grew as more homeowners discovered the craftsmanship behind every product. In 1986, Paul Wellborn became the sole owner and shifted the company’s focus toward residential kitchen and bath dealers. From there, Wellborn Cabinet continued to expand both in size and selection. Today, the company offers six distinct product lines, from framed to frameless cabinetry, designed to fit any home and any budget. Now operating from a 2.2 million-square-foot facility still located in Ashland, Wellborn Cabinet manages every step of the manufacturing process, from raw materials to finished product, ensuring the exceptional quality that has defined the brand for over 60 years. The Wellborn family remains deeply committed to American craftsmanship, local jobs, and community values. Through partnerships with organizations like Helping a Hero and ASOCAVIVA, they continue to give back, investing in what truly matters.

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WELCOME TO OXFORD Our leadership is eager to continue growing our business community and treats each project as a unique opportunity. With a supportive local government, a skilled workforce, excellent municipal services, and a great location, it is easy to understand why businesses choose Oxford. As one of the most popular retail hubs of northeast Alabama, we continue to grow with I-20 Exit 188 and Exit 185 rapidly becoming a vital aspect of the city of Oxford. If you are interested in bringing your business to Oxford, contact city officials to arrange a site visit. See firsthand why everyone is talking about Oxford, Alabama.

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HARRISON SPORTS CHIROPRACTIC 56 FREEDOM LANE

GRACE & GRAY BOUTIQUE 209 HAMRIC DRIVE EAST, SUITE E OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

VELOCITY DOCTOR 1331 BUTLER STREET

HEALTHY SKYN CLUB 4250 U.S. HIGHWAY 78 58

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FIRST HAVEN CABINETRY — WELLBORN CABINET 425 NORTH JOHN WILLS AVENUE

STUDIO 31, A PILATES STUDIO 832 SNOW STREET, SUITE D OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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SPOTLIGHT

CUTTER’S PIZZERIA

Since Cutter’s Pizzeria of Oxford opened at 1781 Hamric Drive East mid-pandemic in 2020, it has quickly become part of the city’s local food hotspots by making its meals readily available to both eager customers and local organizations doing good for the community. And, just like building a great pizza, the Goode family continues to build a small business family using layers of love and appreciation for those working with them to build a better community. Dalton “Cutter” Goode, whose nickname represents the popular food outlet, said he had dreamed of opening a restaurant since his days in school. “I always wanted to own my own business like my grandparents and dad,” Cutter said. “My first job was at a pizza place in Alexandria when I was in high school. I liked it. After college and a few years away working, a spot in Alexandria became available. We bought the equipment, came up with some great recipes, and never looked back. Eight months later, we had the opportunity to open in Oxford.” One of Cutter’s most unique offerings is The Pie – a five-pound pizza with two layers of dough, two layers of cheese, and filled with a choice of ingredients. Wayne Goode, the family patriarch, said Cutter’s offers seven different styles of pizza, which have everything to do with how they are made. Three of which he describes with pride. “The Chicago pizza is made backwards with the dough, cheese, ingredients, then the sauce on top,” Wayne said. “We put a little cheese on top just to ‘Alabama it up’ a little.” “The Pie pizza uses a cornmeal dough on the bottom, all the topping ingredients you want, run it through the oven once, then put a hand-tossed on top of that with some cheese, run it through the oven again, and you get five pounds of goodness,” Wayne said. Cutter’s also offers a Holy Smoke pizza where the sauce is poured onto a bed of pepperoni. The toppings and cheese are mixed in a bowl and put on top. Wayne calls that one his favorite. “We have every ingredient you might want except anchovies,” Wayne added with a laugh. “I’ve never heard of anyone around here ordering anchovies.”

BY BRIAN GRAVES OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

And what about the great pineapple on pizza debate?“That’s actually one of our favorites,” Wayne said. Wayne says new pizzas, crusts, and recipes are constantly being developed in the family kitchen. Using only freshly made doughs and sauces has become part of the Cutter’s Pizzeria success story. “If we like it, and it doesn’t slow our process, we put it on our menu immediately,” Cutter said. Cutter’s also surveys its customers annually and uses the feedback from their loyalty system, which tracks purchases, to learn what's in demand, how the team is performing, and what might become popular. That feedback proved positive when Cutter’s offered Oxford as a pickup location for holiday products, including smoked pork butts, ribs, hams, and turkeys from their Ron’s BBQ location in Alexandria during Labor Day. “It went over so well, we’re doing it again for Thanksgiving,” Wayne said. Oxford customers can order online at www.rons144.com. The Goodes are also devoted to serving the community at every opportunity, such as providing pizzas for first responders, feeding Oxford High’s football coaches, or recognizing the achievements of a class of Oxford school students. “A large part of our business involves being a part of the Oxford community,” said Wayne. “We have developed this reputation with organizations, so if they need something, they can call us, and we’ll help. That’s the way we want to be. It gets tough sometimes, but we do our best.”

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Wayne said one of the best things he has seen happen over the six years of Cutter’s existence is “watching these kids come through who work for us.” “We see them go to school, go to college, and go on to better opportunities,” Wayne said. “We see them go through life and make better decisions. We really get involved with them and put a lot of effort into it. We want them to know that working for us is not the same as working in the corporate world.” Cutter shared that they take pride in providing superior benefits for their many employees, or as they refer to them, “family members.” “We have given out scholarships to those who work for us, and we are always trying to figure out ways to give them more opportunities,” Cutter said. “It’s not just about baking pizzas; it’s about investing in our team,” Wayne said.

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Join us on Tuesday, November 18 at 7:00 PM for the Oxford Community Chorus Holiday Concert at the Oxford Performing Arts Center — admission is free! Enjoy the beauty of more than 80 voices and live orchestra accompaniment performing holiday favorites like “Beautiful Star of Bethlehem,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “Joy Has Dawned Upon the World,” “I Bring a Heart of Thanks,” and more. This family-friendly concert is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season — filled with music, joy, and community spirit. Bring your family, and let your hearts be lifted by the sounds of Christmas!

Tuesday, November 18, 2025 | 7:00 PM Oxford Performing Arts Center Free Admission – All Are Welcome!

• Experience the powerful sound of more than 80 voices with live orchestra accompaniment

• Enjoy a heartwarming program of beloved Christmas favorites and inspiring new works • Celebrate the season with a free, family-friendly concert for all ages • Feel the joy, hope, and community spirit that make the holidays truly special • A perfect way to begin your holiday season—right here at the Oxford Performing Arts Center OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

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P R E S E N T E D W I T H S U P P O R T F RO M T H E OX F O R D A R T S C O U N C I L

Larry K. Martin: Ephemeral Eden – Stories Behind the Paintings Thursday, November 20, 2025 · 2:00 PM · The Studio at OPAC Step into the world of acclaimed wildlife artist Larry K. Martin for an inspiring afternoon of art, storytelling, and discovery. Join us for “Ephemeral Eden – Stories Behind the Paintings,” where Larry shares the adventures, inspirations, and insights that have shaped his remarkable career. This special presentation offers a rare chance to hear directly from one of America’s most celebrated wildlife artists whose work has captured the beauty of the natural world for generations. Renowned for his intricate, lifelike depictions of wildlife, Larry K. Martin, an Anniston native and former tropical medicine researcher, has spent decades honoring nature through art and conservation. After earning his Ph.D. from Tulane University and conducting fieldwork in the Amazon, Martin returned to Alabama to pursue his lifelong artistic calling. His works—more than 400 editions—are found in major corporate and private collections worldwide, including those of President George H. W. Bush, Colin Powell, and Arnold Schwarzenegger. For more than three decades, The Wren’s Nest at the Carriage House in historic downtown Anniston served as Larry’s home gallery—a welcoming space where collectors and admirers could experience his love of nature and art firsthand. Today, The Wren’s Nest at the Oxford Performing Arts Center continues that legacy, introducing his work to an ever-growing audience. The gallery is open Tuesday through Friday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, and during all OPAC performances. A reception (limited capacity - rsvp requested) in the Wren’s Nest Gallery will follow the presentation, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the first exhibition of Larry’s artwork at OPAC. Admission is complimentary and open to the public. To RSVP to the reception, visit oxfordpac.org.

WREN’S NEST AT OXFORD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER • 256-238-0710 • WWW.WRENSNESTOPAC.COM

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OXFORD ARTS COUNCIL The Oxford Arts Council is pleased to introduce our new members for the 2025-2026 year. Violeta Gardner and Kaye Perry will be joining us. They bring a love for our city and a wealth of knowledge as current and former business owners in Oxford. Their creativity and hard work will be an asset as the Arts Council continues collaborating with other Oxford entities to enhance the arts and culture experiences here. This year, the Arts Council will be led by President Patricia Jack and Vice President Theresa Haynes. Other council members—Jane Batey, Marilyn Clark, Elaine Edmondson, Susan Freeman, Greg Hethcox, Merl Haynes, Pam Johnson, Christi Lloyd, Renee Rice, and Cindy Williams—look forward to serving the citizens of Oxford with various arts and culture events. Stay tuned to the Oxford Access and social media for updates.

KAYE PERRY I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Oxford Arts Council for selecting me to be a member. It is with great enthusiasm and humility that I accept this opportunity to serve. I have lived in Oxford for eight years and am a member of First Baptist Church, Oxford. After working with my family business, B.R. Williams

Trucking, Inc., in Oxford for 35 years, I retired in July 2024. Being in the transportation industry, I believe my experience in serving the community will benefit me as I work alongside my fellow members. I’m eager to learn from others on the council and contribute to the shared vision they have for the good of the Oxford community.

VIOLETA GARDNER Violeta lived in Tabasco, Mexico, and used her accounting degree for 8 years while working at a bank. She went on vacation to Miami, Florida, and fell in love with the area. She returned to the United States to live in May of 1991 and stayed in Miami for two years. In 1993, she moved to Alabama, and she started a business in Oxford in 1997. She has operated a swimming pool business, owned a gas station, and now owns a beverage and tobacco store. In 2005, she became a United States citizen with encouragement from friends Dr. Steve and Cindy Lynch. Violeta has always dreamed of being a part of a group that gives back to their community. She looks forward to being a part of the Oxford Arts Council and giving back to the community that has given her so much.

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OXFORD PARAMEDICS GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR OUR CITIZENS, RECOGNIZING OXFORD PATIENTS WITH A TOUCH OF PINK

If you’ve ever seen an Oxford Paramedics (OHSP) ambulance around town, you may have noticed something different: a bright pop of pink. From our stretcher sheets to our new wristbands and handoff forms, that color means more than just style. It represents compassion, commitment, and care. And now, it’s part of a program that helps ensure Oxford’s citizens are recognized and cared for wherever they go for medical treatment. CLEARING UP A COMMON MISUNDERSTANDING We often hear from our citizens who ask,“Is it true that Oxford Paramedics only takes patients to the hospital in Anniston?” The answer is a clear and definite no. Oxford Paramedics absolutely transports patients to other hospitals besides Anniston; our goal is to provide you with excellent emergency care and get you to where you need to be. Oxford Paramedics transports patients to multiple local hospitals, including Baptist Health Citizens Hospital in Talladega, UAB St. Vincent’s St. Clair in Pell City, and, yes, also Anniston. Through listening to our Oxford community, we readily added the options in Talladega and Pell City, especially after the closure of Stringfellow. The Baptist Health and UAB locations are all excellent hospitals that provide high-quality emergency and inpatient care. We regularly take patients to any of these facilities based on their medical needs, location, and hospital preference. Sometimes, people think they have to go all the way to Birmingham for “good care.” While there are outstanding hospitals in Birmingham, the truth is that local hospitals, like those in Talladega and Pell City, can quickly and effectively handle the majority of emergencies. In fact, Birmingham’s hospitals are often overcrowded, especially in the evenings and on weekends, because of the large population in Jefferson County. That means patients transported directly there by ambulance frequently wait significantly longer to be seen than they would at our local hospitals.

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WHY LOCAL HOSPITALS ARE OFTEN THE BETTER FIRST STEP When Oxford Paramedics responds to a medical emergency, our goal is to get you to quality care as quickly as possible. That’s why we advise patients to allow us to take them to one of our trusted nearby emergency departments, such as Baptist Health Citizens Hospital in Talladega or UAB St. Vincent’s St. Clair in Pell City. At these hospitals, patients receive the same high-quality emergency care they’d get in Birmingham, including lab work, imaging (such as X-rays or CT scans), and treatment by board-certified emergency physicians. The difference is that you’ll usually be seen faster and receive emergency testing and care right away. Then, suppose the emergency room physician determines you require admission to a hospital for more advanced or specialized care, for example. In that case, a cardiology procedure at UAB or St. Vincent’s East in Birmingham, surgery at Brookwood, or additional care at Grandview, regardless of the need, Oxford Paramedics will return and transport you directly to the inpatient bed, bypassing the ER in Birmingham or Atlanta. That means instead of waiting in an overcrowded emergency room miles away, you’ll already have been stabilized, diagnosed, and prepared for the next step in your care, all while staying under a local care system, including Oxford Paramedics, until we transfer you. And yes, when needed, we absolutely can transport you or your family directly to Birmingham or Atlanta hospitals, including UAB, Children’s Hospital, or Grady Trauma Center in Atlanta, for critical trauma cases, severe illness, or sick children who require specialized services. Those are situations where bypassing local hospitals makes sense, and we do so routinely. That is the very reason our team consists of critical care paramedics and emergency nurses, to provide you with the most advanced level of care from the scene to wherever we need to take you. However, for most emergencies, including strokes, injuries, or medical issues that require quick evaluation, arriving at a nearby emergency room more quickly can make all the difference.

THE PINK CONNECTION: HOW HOSPITALS IDENTIFY OXFORD PATIENTS Ensuring you receive the proper care promptly is where our new pink wristband and pink handoff report forms come in. When we transport an Oxford citizen to any hospital, such as Baptist Health Citizens Hospital or UAB St. Vincent’s St. Clair, we now provide a bright pink paper handoff report to ER staff and place a matching bright pink wristband on the patient that reads “Oxford Paramedics” and includes our contact number. These two unmistakable bright pink identifiers overtly inform hospital staff that this patient is an Oxford resident and that Oxford Paramedics will return immediately to transfer them if needed. Overtly identifying our patients as “Oxford patients” prevents unnecessary delays, eliminates

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confusion, and ensures our citizens aren’t left waiting for private, for-profit ambulance services that could take hours to arrive or those that use aggressive debt collection tactics in billing. When our crews place the wristband on the patient, they explain exactly what it’s for: if the patient later needs to go to another hospital for specialized treatment or simply an extended hospital stay, Oxford Paramedics will return and take them there promptly, at a moment’s notice.

WHY PINK? A COLOR WITH MEANING The color pink is more than just eye-catching; it’s part of our story. A few years ago, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we ordered bright pink disposable stretcher sheets to show support for our employees and citizens affected by cancer. The idea resonated so strongly that we decided to keep the pink sheets year-round. Over time, the bright pink became an integral part of our identity, something that hospital staff immediately associate with Oxford Paramedics. When we designed this new program to identify Oxford citizens at hospitals, it made perfect sense to use the same color. Our distinctive pink wristbands and handoff reports stand out instantly, helping ensure continuity of care and quick coordination when transfers are needed.

A PROMISE TO OUR COMMUNITY At the heart of this program is a simple yet powerful promise: Oxford Paramedics will be there for you, from your first 911 call to wherever your care journey takes you. Whether you’re at UAB St. Vincent’s St. Clair in Pell City, Baptist Health Citizens Hospital in Talladega, or Regional Medical Center in Anniston, you’ll receive top-quality emergency medical care close to home, often more quickly than if you went straight to Birmingham. And if you do need advanced care elsewhere, we’ll be back, ready to take you wherever you need to go, regardless of the level of care you require. Oxford Paramedics is a state-licensed Critical Care Transport Service, equipped with the most advanced equipment, including ventilators, ultrasound devices, and blood administration capabilities, and staffed with critical care paramedics and nurses. The next time you see our paramedics with our bright pink stretcher sheets and wristbands, know that behind that color is a message: we know you, we care for you, and we’ll make sure you receive the care you need, wherever that may be. Your Oxford Paramedics: a service line of the Health Care Authority of the city of Oxford, Alabama, directly supported by your tax dollars, has you covered. Our goal is to care for each of you like family and provide world-class healthcare! In an emergency, always call 9-1-1. For any non-emergency concerns, please contact us at 256-474-7900. OHSP is world-class healthcare!

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Our bright pink wristbands and handoff reports are more than identifiers; they’re a visible sign of our commitment to the people of Oxford, to your health, your safety, and your peace of mind.

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SPOTLIGHT OXFORD CIT Y SCHOOLS STAFF SPOTLIGHT: ANNA WEBB

THE CITY OF OXFORD IS PROUD TO HAVE SOME OF THE STATE’S BEST SCHOOL STAFF AND HIGHEST-RATED SCHOOL SYSTEMS. RECENTLY, WE HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO GET TO KNOW ANNA WEBB.

Can you share a little about your family?

I have been married to my wonderful husband, Jarrett Webb, for three years, and together we share our home with three fur babies—two dogs and one cat—who bring us so much joy. Anyone who knows me knows I’m a big animal lover, and our pets are truly part of our family. Where did you grow up, and what brought you to Oxford?

I have lived in Oxford my entire life and attended Oxford City Schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Many of my former teachers continue to serve in the district, which I find especially meaningful. Having grown up in this community, I have always considered Oxford my home, and I am grateful for the opportunity to give back by making a positive impact on students here. Where did you attend college, and what did you study?

After graduating from high school, I attended Auburn University, where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Following my first semester of teaching, I began pursuing a Master’s degree in Elementary Education through the University of West Alabama. I am currently pursuing an Educational Specialist degree in Teacher Leader. What is your current role in the Oxford School System, and what are your main responsibilities?

I currently serve as a 6th-grade mathematics teacher at CE Hanna Elementary School. My primary responsibilities include fostering positive relationships with students, planning and delivering engaging lessons, standards-aligned instruction, integrating real-world applications to enhance learning, utilizing data-driven strategies to inform instruction, participating in ongoing professional development, and providing academic and social support to all learners. How long have you been part of the Oxford City Schools system?

I have been a part of the Oxford City Schools system my entire life, but I have been teaching in the system for 4 years.

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Who inspired you to become a teacher?

Growing up, I was never quite sure what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. However, my mother —a dedicated educator—has always been someone I deeply admire. Her passion for teaching and commitment to her students truly inspired me to follow in her footsteps. While working as a substitute teacher in college, I quickly realized that education was my calling. I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my family, as I would not be where I am today without them. What do you find rewarding about teaching? Are there any standout moments in your day?

The most rewarding part about teaching for me is the relationships I make with my students. I truly could claim them as my own and love seeing them do things outside of the classroom, such as sports events or musical events. Interacting with students in a positive way each and every day is my standout moment. What advice would you give to someone just beginning a career in education?

My greatest advice for someone beginning a career in education is to prioritize maintaining consistent classroom management and seeking out a mentor who can provide guidance and support. During my first year, I was fortunate to have several colleagues who served as influential mentors, helping me start my career successfully and encouraging me to believe in myself. What strategies or approaches do you use to help your students reach their full potential?

To help students reach their full potential, I focus on building positive relationships and a classroom culture where students feel valued, supported, and motivated to take ownership of their learning. Through consistent feedback, goal setting, and encouragement, I help students develop confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset. I use a variety of strategies that address their academic, social, and emotional needs. I design differentiated lessons that provide multiple entry points for learners at various levels and use data-driven instruction to tailor support and enrichment opportunities. I incorporate real-world applications to make mathematics relevant and meaningful, encouraging students to think critically and problem-solve collaboratively. What do you enjoy doing outside of the classroom?

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy golfing, cutting grass, and relaxing with my dogs, friends, and family. I also have a passion for cooking and take pride in preparing meals to share and serve others. What do you hope your students remember most about their time with you?

I hope my students remember that they were challenged, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. I want them to know that I truly care about them as individuals and want the best for them. Most importantly, I hope they carry with them confidence, perseverance, and a love of learning beyond the classroom.

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Film Production 1 student, Drew Chastain, mans the broadcast of the Rubato International Piano Competition

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OHS JACKET MEDIA READIES TO BRING OXFORD TO A NATIONAL AUDIENCE

The students of the Oxford High School Jacket Media program are becoming busier these days as they work to create programs not only for their fellow students but also for various agencies outside the high school. And the quality of their work is gaining recognition. In 2023, the students were asked to livestream the first Rubato International Piano Competition from the Oxford Performing Arts Center. Media instructor Candace Finley recalled that the class had received their newest livestreaming equipment only a couple of days prior to the first day of competition. “We basically opened the box and started,” Finley recalled. Their efforts, complete with graphics and multi-camera angles, allowed the friends, classmates, and families of the pianists to watch the competition from countries as far away as Australia. While producing a complicated broadcast, the students were also monitoring comments in several different languages and using Google Translate to respond appropriately, attracting audiences as high as 4,000 on the Jacket Media YouTube channel. The Jacket Media students provided Rubato coverage for three consecutive years, but the project took a different turn for the 2025 competition as a major network took note of the competition and the talented production team providing the livestreams. City officials started conversations with Alabama Public Television in 2024 about the potential of broadcasting this unique Alabama event statewide. While APT agreed Rubato deserved a statewide audience, they expressed that budget and time restraints would not allow such a production – until APT executive director Wayne Reid saw the livestreams produced by Jacket Media. Reid came to Oxford and visited Finley, Mayor Alton Craft, OPAC director John Longshore, Rubato director Julio Barreto, and other staff members to discuss Rubato and the potential documentary.

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Film Production 1 students, Autumn Emory, Jamison Bruce, Jayden Jackson, Asher Nabors, Drew Chastain and Brayden Williams, film the Rubato Welcome dinner

OHS Media instructor Candace Finley works with the students on post production

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“I can easily see a 90-minute program,” Reid told the group, adding that the program could also be made available to other PBS stations across the country. Reid offered to send members of the Emmy-winning APT production team to Oxford to lead a masterclass in television production and assist in the process for Oxford students to produce the documentary. The program concept will showcase the pianists both on and off stage, at work and at play, during the Rubato competition. The APT production team visited OHS in April and told Finley they were “impressed with OPAC and the OHS studio” and how the students were “so engaged and well-mannered.” Filming for the documentary started the first day of the 2025 Rubato competition, and Mayor Craft noted, “You couldn’t turn a corner without seeing a camera.” They are now in the process of putting all those pieces together for what will be called “Rubato: Beyond the Keys” and will be aired statewide on APT sometime later this year or early 2026, after which it will be released to the PBS Network. There are also plans to have a ‘world premiere’ showing at OPAC once the program is completed. “We are so excited about this that, even without seeing this documentary, we are already enthusiastic about having these students produce a second program containing the best performances from Rubato,” Reid said. Finley told The Anniston Star that this is a unique opportunity for high school students. “They have been able to learn from the best - the literal best,” Finley said. “They’re getting that real knowledge that they would not get anywhere else,” she said “This special collaboration with Alabama Public Television gives the city of Oxford a unique ability to communicate to the region and nation all the great attributes of our city and showcase this one-of-akind international musical competition,” Oxford Mayor Alton Craft said about the APT documentary. “I am especially pleased our Oxford High School media students will be able to experience an exceptional career tech opportunity by learning from the award-winning Alabama Public Television production team and then serving as the producers of the Rubato television special,” Craft said. “I want to commend Rubato founder Julio Barreto, Oxford Performing Arts Center executive director John Longshore and his staff, OHS Media instructor Candace Finley, and APT executive director Wayne Reid for helping to make this special moment for our city possible.”

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SPOTLIGHT

ROBERT POORE 90 YEARS OF OXFORD HISTORY

Robert Poore has lived in Oxford for all his 90 years and currently holds a valid driver’s license, which he uses regularly to visit the Oxford Senior Citizens Center. When he arrives, he is automatically given a carton of milk before lunch. It is a pattern he has established every weekday since the center opened. He also knows that before he leaves, he will see his daughter Phyllis, who works at the center. Phyllis is the only child he and his late wife, Opal Trammell Poore, had during a marriage that lasted 57 years until her passing in 2016 at the age of 83. “I was raised in a house with nine brothers and one sister, and I knew how hard it was. My wife might have wanted more, but I didn’t want to take on more than I could afford.” Poore said he remembers an Oxford where, even though he had to walk everywhere, there were no sidewalks; going to school in the same building that now houses the Oxford Performing Arts Center; and, when he had the money, stopping by Dick Adams Café – where everyone hung out – to get a hot dog for a nickel or a dime. “Nobody had much back then, but we were happy,” he said. He shared that his favorite teacher was Mrs. Hamric in first grade. She was the wife of the late Oxford Mayor Alvis A. Hamric and the mother of Jane Hamric Batey.

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CIDE R RIDGE GOLF CLUB

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Robert and lis daughter Phyl

Brothers: Dan

ny, David, and Ro

bert

Opal & Robert

“I dropped out in the ninth grade to go to the Air Force,” he said. “There wasn’t anything around here, and I was a poor boy. All my brothers also went into the service.” Poore served in the military for four years, during which he spent one year in Korea. He is quick to add that the war had ended by the time he got there. “It looked like you had gone back in time 50 years over there compared to America,” Poore said. Upon his return, he drove trucks for the 7-Up bottling plant for four years and then the RC plant for fourteen years. Poore later went to work for the Oxford Water Works, where he retired in 1998 after 27 years of service. Poore has also acquired a nickname over the years, although he is not quite sure how he got it. “I don’t want anybody to know it,” he says with a grin, knowing everyone already does. That nickname is “Chicken,” and comes with some irony as his brother is more connected to that farm animal. His brother, David, who recently turned 83, has become well-known for his many years working at Chick-fil-A at the Oxford Exchange and has his own nickname, “Super Dave.” “Oxford has changed for the better,” Poore said. “[Former Mayor] Leon Smith was a good mayor, and he knew how to get things done. He knew people. He was a friend, and if you were his friend, he’d do anything for you.” “Some say the times back then were simpler and easier,” Poore said. “They were hard, but life has been pretty good.”

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Oxford Open - Table Tennis Tournament was held at the Friendship Community Center

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OXFORD ACCESS MAGAZINE | 2025

BYNUM COMMUNITY CENTER Monday 7:00 am-8:00 pm Free-Play 7:00 am-3:00 pm Weight Room 7:00 am-7:30 pm Tuesday 7:00 am-8:00 pm Free-Play 7:00 am-3:00 pm Weight Room 7:00 am-7:30 pm Wednesday 7:00 am-12:00 pm Free-Play 7:00 am-11.30 am Weight Room 7:00 am-11:30 am Thursday 7:00 am-8:00 pm Free-Play 7:00 am-3:00 pm Weight Room 7:00 am-7:30 pm Friday 7:00 am-12:00 pm Free-Play 7:00 am-11:30 am Weight Room 7:00 am-11:30 am Saturday 9:00 am-4:00 pm Free-Play 9:00 am-2:00 pm Weight Room 9:00 am-2:00 pm

Shuffleboard Volleyball Basketball Pickleball

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Please call for up-to-date times & closures; All hours are subject to change due to rentals, athletic events, holidays, etc

Programs Card Games Yoga Balance, Strength & Flexibility Aerobics Square Dance Amenities Weight Cardio Room Outdoor walking track Playground

CHRISTMAS SENIOR DANCE Ryan Robertson with Alabama Rain performing Friday, December 12, 6:30 - 9:30 PM $5.00 admission; light meal, door prizes, and live entertainment Oxford Civic Center 401 McCullars Lane, Oxford 256-831-2660

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The Oxford City Schools Education Foundation is excited to share our upcoming fundraising events! Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for these special occasions:

Breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 6, 2025 Enjoy a festive morning of fun, food, and holiday cheer for the whole family.

Edible Evening for Education Thursday, March 26, 2026 An exciting night celebrating education, featuring delicious food, live entertainment, and community fellowship.

We look forward to seeing you at these events as we continue supporting excellence in Oxford City Schools! For more information, contact: Judy Muncher judymuncherocsef@gmail.com 96

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CHRISTMAS ON MAIN

Historic Downtown Oxford

November 15, 2025 Saturday, 12 pm – 6:30 pm Enjoy a full day of holiday magic! Cookie Walk on Main Live Entertainment Christmas Tree Lighting

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PIONEERS IN LEADERSHIP OXFORD’S MAYORS & THEIR LEGACIES — PART IV

As Oxford entered the 1930s and 1940s, the city began transforming from a small agricultural trading town into a steadily growing modern community. The challenges of the Great Depression, the impact of World War II, and the opportunities of postwar expansion called for strong, capable leadership. During this pivotal era, Oxford was guided by a series of mayors who laid the groundwork for the city’s future progress, embodying civic responsibility, integrity, and a commitment to community advancement. This installment of Pioneers in Leadership: Oxford’s Mayors & Their Legacies highlights three such men: Thomas Blake Howle, Carl Dozier Pace, and Hemphill Gay Whiteside. Their combined years of service from 1932 to 1960 shaped the physical, political, and social landscape of Oxford for generations to come.

THOMAS BLAKE HOWLE, V.M.D. 1932 – 1934, 1940 – 1944 T. B. Howle, a native of Oxford, was a farmer, veterinarian, businessman, and public servant who dedicated much of his life to his community and state. The son of former Mayor T.A. Howle, and nephew of former Mayor D.C. Cooper, he continued his family’s civic legacy by serving as mayor of Oxford from 1932 – 1934 and again from 1940 – 1944, later representing Calhoun County in the Alabama State Senate from 1947 – 1951. Howle graduated from Calhoun County High School and Auburn University in 1915, where he played football and served as student manager of the team. Shortly after graduation, he opened a veterinary clinic in Oxford, which operated until 1917 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army’s 115th Engineers. Serving in World War I, he attained the rank of Lieutenant and was responsible for purchasing and selling livestock for the Army. In 1923, he joined his father as managing partner of T.A. Howle & Son Company, a general merchandise store known for extending credit to local farmers. He also maintained his own farming and livestock operations. Deeply involved in civic and professional life, Howle was a member of the Oxford Commercial Club, the Exchange Club, the Anniston Area Food Distribution Committee, and the Calhoun County Auburn Alumni Association, where he served as president. He also held leadership roles in numerous military and fraternal organizations, including the Oxford Military Training Class, the 167th Infantry of the Alabama National Guard, the Anniston American Legion, and the Hartwell Masonic Lodge, where he served as Junior Warden, Senior Deacon, and Secretary. BY HUNTER C. GENTRY 98

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THOMAS BLAKE HOWLE, V.M.D.

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His first election as mayor came after a contentious legal battle following the disputed 1932 election. Although R.R. Pope was initially declared the winner, a court challenge revealed that 21 legal votes had been rejected. After hearing testimony from more than 50 witnesses, Judge R.B. Carr ruled in favor of Howle, declaring him the rightful mayor, a decision later upheld by the Alabama Supreme Court. Beyond his political service, Howle worked as the City Milk and Meat Inspector for Anniston and was later appointed as Calhoun County Rabies Inspector. In 1945, he opened a new veterinary practice on South Noble Street in Anniston, recognized at the time as one of the most modern clinics in the region. He continued operating the practice until his retirement. Although unsuccessful in earlier campaigns for Calhoun County Tax Assessor (1930 and 1934) and State Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries (1942), Howle was elected to the Alabama State Senate in 1946 with 3,077 votes. In 1947, the Capitol Correspondents Association named him the “Most Colorful Senator.” During his tenure, he advocated for the welfare of the people, educational improvements, and the advancement of the veterinary profession. Throughout his career, Howle also served as Vice President of Williams Motor Company, President of the Key Association of the Federal Land Bank, and an active football referee, and a member of the Calhoun County Sportsman Club. He worked to secure Civilian Works Administration support for the construction of the Calhoun County High School stadium. His lifelong dedication to public service, agriculture, and community betterment left a lasting impact on Oxford.

CARL DOZIER PACE 1934 – 1940 C. D. Pace, a native of Eastaboga, moved to Oxford in the early 1900s with his family. Pace established himself as a respected community leader and longtime public servant. A 1905 graduate of Oxford College and a 1908 graduate of Auburn University, Pace was active in student life, serving as senior class secretary and treasurer during his time at Oxford College. After graduation, he returned to Oxford to live with his parents before moving to Alexandria to work as a general merchandise salesman. Over the years, he worked in several industries, including operating the Pace Auto Company in Anniston and later becoming a drilling contractor in the 1920s, constructing wells throughout Calhoun County. His success and expertise in that field eventually led him to serve as superintendent of the Oxford Water Department. Pace’s long record of civic service included many years on the Oxford City Council, where he served from 1928 – 1934 and again from 1944 – 1960, with a six-year term as mayor of Oxford from 1934 – 1940. His leadership coincided with an important era of growth and modernization for the city. Beyond his public service, he was an active member of the Oxford United Methodist Church, where he served faithfully on the Board of Stewards for many years.

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CARL DOZIER PACE

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Throughout his career, Pace earned a reputation as a capable leader, a devoted citizen, and a man dedicated to improving Oxford’s infrastructure and community life.

HEMPHILL GAY WHITESIDE 1944 – 1960 H. G. Whiteside, a native of Birmingham, moved to Oxford in 1913 with his mother and siblings following the death of his father. The Whiteside family had deep roots in Oxford and Calhoun County. Whiteside was an insurance agent and civic leader. Whiteside was a graduate of Calhoun County High School and attended the University of Georgia, where he was a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity. He began his career working as an attendant at the Oxford Service Station before entering the insurance industry. He joined the Anniston Insurance Agency, later known as the George H. Butler & Company Insurance Agency, where he specialized in fire, casualty, and life insurance. From 1924 to 1971, he served as agent and manager for the North Alabama Division of the Equitable Life Insurance Agency. A dedicated public servant, Whiteside was first elected to the Oxford City Council in 1940, where he served as Mayor Pro Tempore before being elected Mayor of Oxford in 1944. He served in that role until 1960, leading the city through a period of major growth, during which Oxford’s population more than doubled, improvements to infrastructure were made, and a new city hall was created in the former Oxford Elementary School. His administration emphasized civic improvement and community involvement, reflecting his belief in steady, responsible leadership. Beyond city government, Whiteside was active in numerous organizations throughout Calhoun County and Alabama. He served as president of the Calhoun County High School Alumni Association, chairman of the Anniston Community Chest, and a member of the Regional Medical Center Memorial Foundation Fund. Politically active, he was a member and secretary of the Calhoun County League of Young Democrats, chairman of the county’s Franklin D. Roosevelt Ball, and delegate to the 1940 Democratic National Convention. He also served on the Calhoun County Board of Registrars and worked as an election officer and manager. Whiteside’s civic involvement extended to many community and charitable causes. Whiteside chaired the Calhoun County March of Dimes Campaign for 25 years, was a member of the Emergency Committee of the American Red Cross, and served on the executive committee of the Choccolocco Council of the Boy Scouts. He was a charter member of the Elks Lodge No. 189, a member of the Board of Directors for the Alabama League of Municipalities, and an honorary member of Governor George Wallace’s staff for eight years. A faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Oxford, he served as president of the Valant Knights Sunday School and was known for his strong commitment to service and leadership.

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HEMPHILL GAY WHITESIDE

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COMMUNITY CENTERS & PARKS BANNISTER PARK

Located off Friendship Road Oxford, Alabama 36203

BYNUM COMMUNITY CENTER

2930 Friendship Rd, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 831-2679

CHEAHA CLUBHOUSE

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CHOCCOLOCCO PARK

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910 Boozer Drive, Oxford, AL 36203 256-831-2660

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OXFORD CIVIC CENTER AND OXFORD LAKE

401 McCullars Lane, Oxford, AL 36203 (256) 831-2660

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FRIENDSHIP COMMUNITY CENTER

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LIBERTY PARK

SENIOR CITIZEN CENTER

SIMMONS PARK

Corner of Main Street and Oak Street Oxford, AL 36203

OXFORD

Christmas Parade December 11, 2025 6:00 pm

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