The Pensacola Cross (Photo-PNJ)

MONTGOMERY – Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall led a coalition of 14 state attorneys general in filing a friend of the court brief supporting the City of Pensacola, Florida’s, right to keep a historic cross on display in a public park.

Attorney General Marshall filed an amicus brief Tuesday with the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals supporting the City of Pensacola’s appeal of a June 19, 2017, lower federal court ruling ordering the city to remove a Latin cross from Bayview Park.

“The large cross in Pensacola’s Bayview Park is a local landmark dating back more than seven decades,” said Attorney General Marshall. “The cross is woven into the fabric of Pensacola’s history and its presence in a public park does not violate the First Amendment’s prohibition of the establishment of religion, as opponents have claimed. To continue down the road of the lower court’s reasoning would open the door to challenges of religious symbols on thousands of monuments and memorials on public property across the country.”

Attorney General Marshall’s brief in the case Amanda Kondrat’yev v. City of Pensacola, Florida, asserts that the lower federal court ruling against the display of the cross ignores legal precedent protecting the display of historical monuments, including religious symbols, on public property.

“States, counties, and municipalities have historically included, or allowed private parties to include, religious texts and symbols on monuments and other displays on public property. The amici States have an interest in maintaining that practice, consistent with a proper understanding of the Establishment Clause,” the brief stated.

Alabama was joined by Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Utah in filing the brief.

FLORENCE- – The Shoals Idea Audition, an event sponsored by the University of North Alabama, Bank Independent, and the Shoals Chamber of Commerce, is scheduled for Tuesday, October 10 at 4:00 p.m. on the 2^nd floor of the Guillot University Center on the University of North Alabama campus.

This annual event is free and open to the public. It is designed to foster new businesses, help entrepreneurs polish their presentations, and introduce community leaders who might be instrumental in helping make their ideas a reality. For the fourth year in a row, hopeful participants will have an opportunity to present their business ideas to a panel of area professionals, and the top scoring idea will be awarded a $5,000 cash prize, with $2,500 and $1,000 to second and third-place winners, respectively.

“Registered participants have an opportunity to review their presentations with experts when they attend training sessions in advance of the contest,” said Mary Marshall VanSant, a founder of the event. “On October 10 they will then have three minutes to make their pitch. The panel of judges will be made up of local entrepreneurs who will select finalists for the final round where they will pitch in front of a different panel of judges and a larger audience to determine the winners.”

Last year, Harriette Rost won the contest with her idea of a patient bed-turner device named TomiTurn. Rost envisioned a device that makes turning bed-ridden patients easier and that is designed to prevent injury to the patient and caregiver.

“I was blown away by my competition and surprised that I won,” said Rost. Winning the competition allowed her to the ability to attend trade shows to promote TomiTurn and purchase more raw materials for its production. “Participation in trade shows can cost up to $3,000 but they are an essential part of marketing products like mine,” Rost added.

Tasia Malakasis, owner and president of Belle Chevre, an award-winning cheese producer located in Elkmont, Alabama, and author of the cookbook Tasia’s Table, will serve as this year’s key note speaker.

For full information please visit the Shoals Idea Audition website:

www.shoalsideaaudition.com

The following people were arrested in Colbert County:

SANCHEZ, CHRISTIAN GABREIEL
Booking #: 1710031978
Booking Date: 10-02-2017
Charges: POSSESSION MARIJUANA 2ND

LOVELACE, ERIC JOSEPH
Booking #: 1710031976
Booking Date: 10-02-2017
Charges: FTA: POSSESSION CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

DARLING, DEREK ANTHONY
Booking #: 1710031975
Booking Date: 10-02-2017
Charges: RAPE 1ST; SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILD; SODOMY 1ST

MENDENHAL, WILLIAM EDWARD
Booking #: 1710031977
Booking Date: 10-01-2017
Charges: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 3RD; POSSESSION DRUG PARAPHERNALIA

ALFARO, SALENA RENAE
Booking #: 1710031973
Booking Date: 10-01-2017
Charges: POSSESSION MARIJUANA 2ND; POSSESSION DRUG PARAPHERNALIA; POSSESSION CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES;

TOWNSEND, DENARRIAN OMAR
Booking #: 1710031979
Booking Date: 09-30-2017
Charges: ROBBERY 1ST; AND FTA: FISHING W/O LICENSE

BUTLER, MATTHEW JACOB
Booking #: 1710031974
Booking Date: 09-29-2017
Charges: RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY 1ST

RAY, TOMMY CRAIG
Booking #: 1709291971
Booking Date: 09-29-2017
Charges: MURDER

MCKINNEY, STANLEY OSHEA
Booking #: 1709291970
Booking Date: 09-28-2017
Charges: ARSON 2ND DEGREE

KING, CHARLES HOUSTON
Booking #: 1709291969
Booking Date: 09-28-2017
Charges: UNLAWFUL MANUFACTURE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE; TRAFFICKING ILLEGAL DRUGS

HOLMES, NOAH ATTICUS
Booking #: 1709291968
Booking Date: 09-28-2017
Charges: FTA: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 3RD X2; AND INTERFERENCE WITH EMERGENCY CALL

HOLLAND, JAMES LEE
Booking #: 1709281961
Booking Date: 09-28-2017
Charges: ATTEMPT TO COMMIT MURDER; THEFT OF PROPERTY 1ST

DAVIS, BOBBY ALLEN
Booking #: 1709281960
Booking Date: 09-28-2017
Charges: VIOLATION OF TERMS OF RELEASE

BRANDENBURG, KAYLA ANN
Booking #: 1709281959
Booking Date: 09-28-2017
Charges: FAILED TO ABIDE BY CONDITIONS OF RELEASE

MURPHY, DAYLEN WADE
Booking #: 1709281965
Booking Date: 09-27-2017
Charges: HOUSED FOR LAWRENCE COUNTY

MILLER, GREGORY DURAND
Booking #: 1709281964
Booking Date: 09-27-2017
Charges: CHILD SUPPORT

MASON, DERECUS JAMAR
Booking #: 1709281963
Booking Date: 09-27-2017
Charges: FTA: THEFT OF PROPERTY 2ND

LYNCH, ROBERT EDGER III
Booking #: 1709271957
Booking Date: 09-26-2017
Charges: RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY

WHITESIDE, DEVON WILLIAM
Booking #: 1709261953
Booking Date: 09-25-2017
Charges: D.U.I.

MILLER, CHARLES THOMAS
Booking #: 1709261952
Booking Date: 09-25-2017
Charges: FTA: THEFT 2ND

HAMPTON, GARY DONTRELL
Booking #: 1709261950
Booking Date: 09-25-2017
Charges: SERVING SENTENCE FOR POSSESSION CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

FREEMAN, SINCLAIR ELLIS
Booking #: 1709221946
Booking Date: 09-21-2017
Charges: CHILD SUPPORT

LEWIS, JOHN WESLEY
Booking #: 1709221945
Booking Date: 09-21-2017
Charges: FTA: MULTIPLE TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS

POWELL, ALBERT LAMAR
Booking #: 1709211941
Booking Date: 09-20-2017
Charges: FTA: BURGLARY 3RD

DRUMGOOD, DAVID ALLEN
Booking #: 1709201940
Booking Date: 09-19-2017
Charges: ATTEMPT TO COMMIT MURDER; DISCHARGING FIREARM INTO OCCUPIED VEHICLE; VIOLATION SUSPENDED SENTENCE

INGRAM, TORY J
Booking #: 1709191933
Booking Date: 09-15-2017
Charges: CHILD SUPPORT 100 DAYS

KILPATRICK, LARRY RAY
Booking #: 1709141923
Booking Date: 09-13-2017
Charges: STATE INMATE

FLORENCE–Authorities are searching for the driver of an SUV involved in a hit and run that left a Florence man dead.

According to police, on Friday night Florence Police along with Florence Fire, Shoals Ambulance, and Air Evac responded to a traffic accident involving a pedestrian in the 2300 block of Cloyd Blvd.

On arrival, officers found Kevin Doherty, 57, from Florence,  in a yard in the 2300 block of Cloyd Blvd.
It was reported that Mr. Doherty was driving his motorized wheelchair west bound in the east bound lane of Cloyd Blvd when he was struck head on by a small light colored SUV.

The driver of the SUV fled the scene west on Cloyd Blvd and turned south on Mall Road. A crime scene was established.

Mr. Doherty was flown to Huntsville Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The Investigations Division along with the traffic homicide investigators processed the scene.

The investigation is still ongoing.

If you have any information concerning this accident please contact the Florence Police Department at 256-768-2764 or text a tip to 274637 using keyword FPD TIP plus your message.

Jeff Roland

Shoals Insider – Keeping You Informed

Maxwell Marquez Thompson

FLORENCE-Authorities have arrested a Florence High School Senior after a grand jury indictment was handed down on charges of Rape and Sexual Abuse.

Florence Detective Greg Cobb tells ShoalsInsider.com that Maxwell Marquez Thompson, 18, of Florence, was arrested at Florence High School Friday afternoon on a warrant for Rape 1st degree and Sexual Abuse 1st degree.

The incident reportedly occurred in July in West Florence when Thompson forced himself on a teenager after she told him no multiple times.

Investigators say once the incident was over the victim went to ECM hospital for treatment and immediately contacted Florence Police Department.

Thompson is being held in the Lauderdale County Detention Center on a $75,000.00 bond.

Jeff Roland

ShoalsInsider.com – Keeping You Informed

Alabama’s leading Political Columnist Steve Flowers

Judge Roy Moore and his wife, Kayla, made their traditional horseback ride to their voting place in Gallant in Etowah County, last Tuesday and when all the votes were counted that night, they won a resounding victory. Moore’s capture of the GOP Senate nomination was impressive. A 55-45 margin is not a total trouncing but is considered a landslide.
Despite being outspent by the Washington establishment 15-to-1, Moore prevailed. His solid bloc of conservative evangelical voters stood strong against an avalanche of negative ads.
When the Washington Beltway Big Money interests pony up, they bring with them the best and meanest pollsters and media consultants in the country. They congruently polled and told Luther Strange to tie himself inextricably to Donald Trump. Luther stuck to the script perfectly. Trump even came to Alabama to endorse Big Luther. It was to no avail.
When you are able to have $15 million spent for you and the president and vice president fly in to endorse you, you can look in the mirror the next day and honestly say; “I did all that I could do to derail the 10 Commandments Judge. Four months from now Mitch McConnell and crowd will be saying, “Here comes the Judge.”
The GOP Senate runoff was finalized last Tuesday, but it was probably decided last year and the dye was more than likely cast in February and April when the race officially began.
When disgraced and disregarded governor, Robert Bentley, gave Attorney General Luther Strange the Senate seat appointment in February it was the kiss of death. Folks in Alabama have never liked someone getting appointed to an office. When George Wallace was in his heyday of popularity, he would appoint someone to a political office, and they would invariably lose every time. Alabamians tend to resent this means of arrival into a political post. They especially look with a disparaging eye when they get selected by a governor who they are investigating for corruption while you are the state’s chief prosecutor. It appears clandestine and casts a cloud of conspiracy over the deal. Perception is reality in politics.
Big Luther was likely laid to rest in April when newly minted governor, Kay Ivey, changed Bentley’s decision to delay the Special Election to fill the remaining time of Jeff Sessions term from next year’s 2018 election to a Special Election this year.
Luther took the appointment with the assumption that he would have the luxury of nestling into the seat for almost two years and running as a veteran incumbent with two years under his belt and every race on the ballot the same day; two years for people to forget the appointment, plus 15 million dollars of Washington money is a lot safer bet than seeking election in a Special Election less than six months after the Bentley appointment against religious folk hero Roy Moore.
Judge Moore was poised to win whatever he sought in his next pursuit of office. When the state judicial inquiry commission removed him from the Bench for espousing his judicial opinion against gay marriage, it made him a martyr among conservative Alabamians. In the Heart of Dixie that was a very good hand to be dealt.
It made folks mad when the federal courts took him out of office for displaying the Ten Commandments. However, the wrath that his removal from the bench last year evoked was enormous. Especially, after he had been elected by the same voters because they liked his socially conservative stances.
Private early polling of the 2018 Governor’s race revealed that Moore was the frontrunner in that race. That is probably why Kay Ivey called for a Special Election as one of her first acts as Governor. She knew that Moore would be lured into the Senate seat, which better suits him.
There is a lot of talk and speculation that the Democratic nominee, Doug Jones, can make a race of it when the General Election is held on December 12. Jones is a good candidate. However, he is a true national liberal Democrat who proudly espouses the liberal agenda of the Democrats.
It is still very doubtful that a Democrat can win a statewide race in Alabama, especially for the U.S. Senate. However, it will be fun to watch.
See you next week.

Steve Flowers’ column appears weekly on ShoalsInsider.com. He is Alabama’s leading political columnist.

Publisher and Columnist Jeff Roland

I love the old seventies song by Marvin Gay entitled What’s Going On. That’s the question I have been asking myself since the Colin Kaepernick-NFL- National Anthem debacle began.

This week we hear that Kaepernick will stand for the Anthem “If given the chance,” Hint..Hint..Surely some NFL team will allow Kaepernick the human hot potato to come play ball. Had he focused on that and not holding people captive with his display of “free speech” by taking a knee during the National Anthem to protest what? It seemed to change from time to time.

I heard it through the Grapevine that Kaepernick only did it to appease his girlfriend. Whatever the reason he has awakened a sleeping giant and a huge knee-jerk reaction from conservatives.  I suspect Kaepernick will be in another line of work next season as he will probably not be signed again. But who knows? Lightning might strike.

Just when you think it’s over, ESPN suspended this week for the second time Sports Center co-host Jemile Hill for her tweet that fans should boycott Jerry Jone’s Dallas Cowboy’s advertisers for his stance on the Kaepernick/Anthem issue.

Trump supporters are saying Ain’t No Mountain High Enough as they are standing steadfast in a proposed NFL boycott. Every Trump supporter I talk with claims they will never watch another NFL game. I can’t help but believe them as they speak with such conviction and gravity on the issue.

Vice-President Pence walked out of a game on Sunday due to the players taking a knee. It seems the more the players protest the more popular Trump becomes.

There just seems to be a lot of confusion on this issue. It all depends on who you ask. Some say Kaepernick and the players are in the right and some say it’s patriotic blasphemy.

At the end of the day, I wonder what kind of example these players that take a knee are setting for the youth of the country.

See You Next Week

Jeff Roland is the Publisher of ShoalsInsider.com. For questions or comments email news@shoalsinsider.com

Nellie Rogers has last seen Oct. 7th.

FLORENCE–Authorities in Lauderdale County are actively searching for a missing teen.

The Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office tells ShoalsInsider.com Nellie Rogers was last seen at the McDonalds on Florence Blvd last Saturday.

Rogers is 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs around 170 lbs.

If you know the whereabouts of Rogers, please contact Sgt. Horton at 256-760-5752 or call 911.

Jeff Roland

ShoalsInsider.com – Keeping You Informed

Christina Marie Carroll

FLORENCE–Police have made an arrest in the Friday night hit and run that killed 57-year-old Kevin Doherty of Florence.

Investigators tell ShoalsInsider.com Christina Marie Carroll, 26, of 146 County Road 366, Florence, turned herself in this morning the Lauderdale County Detention Center on a charge of felony leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death.

Doherty was riding a motorized wheelchair at the time of the crash. He was flown to Huntsville Hospital after the crash where he later died.

According to Lauderdale County Courthouse records, Carroll was arrested in 2009 for illegal possession of prescription drugs and DUI.

Jeff Roland

ShoalsInsider.com – Keeping You Informed

The Crimson Tide and Razorbacks are set for a 6:20 p.m. CT kickoff on ESPN on Saturday evening
Football

TUSCALOOSA. – The University of Alabama football team practiced in full pads for two hours on Tuesday afternoon at the Hank Crisp Indoor Facility.
The two-hour session focused on game planning for a balanced Arkansas offensive attack.

The Razorbacks feature the fifth-best scoring offense in the Southeastern Conference with an average of 32.6 points per game.

The two SEC Western Division foes will meet this Saturday, Oct. 14, in a 6:20 p.m. CT matchup at Bryant-Denny
Stadium.

The Crimson Tide’s homecoming game will air live on ESPN with Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit in the booth and Maria Taylor on the sidelines for the Alabama and Arkansas will meet for the 28th time in series history when the two square off this weekend.

The Crimson Tide holds the all-time advantage, 17-8 (after vacations), and was victorious in last year’s meeting, 49-30, in Fayetteville.

The Tide has won all 10 pairings under the direction of head coach Nick Saban, including a 27-14 win in the Razorbacks’ last visit to Tuscaloosa in 2015.

Earlier this week, redshirt senior offensive lineman Bradley Bozeman and junior defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick were named to ESPN.com’s Midseason All-America Team.

Bozeman, a solid force for the Tide, anchors the offensive front from his center position.

The senior lineman has helped provide protection for a balanced offensive attack that ranks atop the SEC in both scoring offense and total offense.

Fitzpatrick has had a productive season thus far, making an impact from multiple positions in the
defensive secondary.

Fitzpatrick also earned his fourth player of the week honor on Tuesday afternoon, being named the Lott IMPACT Player of the Week.

The junior defensive back earned the accolade thanks to his standout effort in the Crimson Tide’s 27-19 win at Texas A&M last Saturday where he finished with five tackles, including three for a loss while adding a forced fumble, one pass breakup and his first interception of the 2017 season. He also recovered an onside kick late in the game to secure the victory for the top-ranked Crimson Tide.

Source: University Communications Dept.

ROME, Ga. — After snapping a two-game losing skid with a 30-7 Homecoming win over Florida Tech last Saturday, the University of North Alabama hopes to continue to get its 2017 season back on track with a Gulf South Conference road game at Shorter on October 14.

UNA enters the game, set for a noon Central kickoff, with a 2-3 overall record and a 2-2 GSC mark. Shorter is 0-6 overall and 0-4 in the GSC.

The Lions have completely dominated the series to this point. UNA is 5-0 all-time against Shorter and has outscored the Hawks 201-14 in the five previous meetings. UNA’s five wins over Shorter have been by scores of 41-0, 41-0, 45-7, 28-7 and 45-0.

UNA can’t take anything for granted against the Hawks, according to head coach Chris Willis, and must be ready for a challenge Saturday.

“We have to continue to improve offensively in not turning the ball over and pass protection, and we have to cut down on penalties,” Willis said. “We have been hurting ourselves and that’s something we need to continue to correct. Shorter is definitely a team that we have to be focused on.”

Both UNA and Shorter have been struggling offensively this season. UNA is ranked 151st in total offense in Division II out of 168 schools. The Lions are ranked 126th in rushing offense and 137th in passing offense. Shorter is 164th in total offense, 166th in rushing offense and 128th in passing offense. Shorter’s 11.0 points per game ranks 166th and UNA is 117th at 21.4.

UNA’s 134 yards of total offense against Florida Tech was the lowest by a UNA team in 70 games, dating back to a 5-0 loss to Valdosta State on October 14, 2010 when the Lions picked up just 101 yards. But despite the low offensive output last week, UNA did not turn the ball over and posted a 30-7 win.

On the defensive side, UNA is ranked 10th in Division II in interceptions with 11 – including four last Saturday against Florida Tech.

On special teams, UNA junior kicker Chandler Carrera has made his last six straight field goal attempts after going 0-for-3 in the Lions’ season-opener and freshman punt returner Dwain Smith is averaging 24.2 yards per return on his five attempts this season, including a 52-yarder against Florida Tech.

Source: University Athletic Dept.

MONTGOMERY—Attorney General Steve Marshall called on Alabamians to observe October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month by recognizing the terrible costs of lives lost and damaged, celebrating and honoring those who have struggled and survived, and supporting those who dedicate themselves to assist and advocate for victims of this tragic crime.

“Public awareness is a vital weapon against domestic violence,” said Attorney General Marshall. “This is a pervasive and secretive crime because offenders try to make victims believe the attacks are their own fault, and use the victims’ affection and dependence to keep them trapped in a vicious cycle. Sadly, whether we realize it or not, all of us know people whose lives have been marked by domestic violence. Victims need to know that they are not alone, that they need not be ashamed, and that they may be provided with justice.”

Nearly one in three adult women will be physically assaulted by a partner, but only one fourth of such assaults are ever reported to police, according to statistics from the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence’s webpage. Last year in Alabama, 18 percent of all violent offenses reported were domestic violence incidents, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Statistical Analysis Center. There were indications of domestic violence in 4,611 of all offenses, including 43 homicides, 238 rapes, 95 robberies, and 4,235 aggravated assaults.

Victims may seek help by calling the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ACADV) crisis line at 1-800-650-6522 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. Another available resource, called “Love is Respect,” has a hotline at 1-866-331-9474, or may be reached by texting ‘loveis” to the number 22522. The U.S. National Sexual Assault Hotline—1-800-656-4673—automatically connects to a local rape crisis program based on the caller’s area code. A list of safe shelters and other resources is available through the ACADV website at http://www.acadv.org/get-help/shelters.

Attorney General Marshall commended the valuable services of victims’ advocates throughout Alabama who provide information and assistance to domestic violence victims. “Caring volunteers and professionals hear the cries of victims who were betrayed by those closest to them. It can begin with someone just listening and caring, and then showing the victims a way out where they had felt trapped and lost. Oftentimes, survivors may provide the strength and understanding to help others.” Throughout this month, the Attorney General is privately visiting with advocates and victims at domestic abuse shelters in Alabama.

He also thanked the staff of the Attorney General’s Office of Victim Assistance, who work with victims and their families to provide information and help in understanding various steps throughout the judicial process. They can be reached toll-free at 1-800-626-7676, or through the Attorney General’s webpage at www.ago.alabama.gov.

As a long-time prosecutor, Steve Marshall has been a champion for domestic violence victims both as Attorney General and for the previous 16 years as the District Attorney for Marshall County. Under his tenure, the Marshall County District Attorney’s Office was recognized by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs as a model domestic violence prosecution program. He successfully supported passage of “Kelley’s Law” which makes it a capital crime to murder someone who has a protective order against the offender and was named in honor of a Marshall County woman who was murdered.

“It will take all of us working together to fight domestic violence. Friends and families, local community members, victims’ advocates, law enforcement and prosecutors, we all stand with those who need our help to survive and overcome, to see that offenders are stopped and punished, and to remember and honor those who were lost,” said Attorney General Marshall.

MUSCLE SHOALS, ALA. — Northwest-Shoals Community College (NW-SCC) will offer FREE job readiness workshops Tuesday, October 17th, and Wednesday, October 18th, prior to the beginning of the Northwest Alabama Job Fair each day on the Shoals campus.

The job readiness workshops will be held in building 115 on the Shoals campus from 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Tuesday, October 17th, and 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. on Wednesday, October 18th.

The Tuesday, October 17th, workshop will feature 5 Ways to Impress an Employer and a Local Employer Panel Discussion. The workshop will help job seekers learn how to stand out to potential employers and hear firsthand from local employers regarding the do’s and don’ts of the workplace. Presenters for the workshop will be Jennifer Smith, Co-owner of David Christopher’s; Clayton Wood, District Manager of Social Security Administration in Decatur, Ala.; and Alana Parker, Education and Training Director for First Metro Bank.

The Wednesday, October 18th, workshop will focus on the topic of job seekers disclosing disabilities to employers. The workshop will help inform job seekers on the disclosure of a disability and how it can be a decision that takes thought and practice. Participants will learn the appropriate methods of disclosure and resources that are available to them. This workshop is open for all individuals. The presenters for the workshop will be Nick Conway, Business Relations Consultant for the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services.

NW-SCC will host the Northwest Alabama Job Fair Tuesday, October 17, from 4 – 8 p.m. and Wednesday, October 18, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the Patriot Center (gym) on the Shoals campus. Online pre-registration for job seekers is available at www.nwscc.edu.

The Northwest Alabama Job Fair is a joint partnership between AIDT, Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services, NW-SCC, Shoals Career Center and the Shoals Chamber of Commerce.

For more information on the job fair, please visit https://www.nwscc.edu/your-path-starts-here/special-programs/northwest-alabama-job-fair.

FLORENCE–Two people were injured when a car crashed into the side of Sam’s Sports Bar just off of Hough Road.

Police tell ShoalsInsider.com the driver of the vehicle was not injured.

The driver told officers that she thought she was pushing the brake instead of the accelerator.

One person was taken to the hospital for the injuries they received, though not serious.

The other person injured did not receive medical attention.

The incident occurred just before noon Thursday.

The popular restaurant and bar will close the rest of the day.

Jeff Roland

ShoalsInsider.com-Keeping You Informed

Justice Roy Moore

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Today, the Judge Roy Moore for U.S. Senate Campaign announced the endorsements of eight additional members of the Alabama House of Representatives. This follows an endorsement from Alabama Senate Pro Tem Del Marsh and the support of Alabama Republican Party Chairwoman, Terry Lathan.

“This is a critical election for Alabama,” Moore Campaign Chairman Bill Armistead said on Thursday. “Judge Moore’s runoff victory sent a ripple throughout Washington D.C. As we head toward victory in December, Republicans are uniting around our campaign because none of us want a poster boy for the failed policies of the Obama era in the United States Senate. We are glad to have these members of the Alabama House of Representatives on board.”

The representatives who endorsed Judge Roy Moore on Thursday are as follows:

Representative Dickie Drake, Leeds
Representative Matt Fridy, Birmingham
Representative Arnold Mooney, Birmingham
Representative Barry Moore, Enterprise
Representative Kerry Rich, Guntersville
Representative David Sessions, Grand Bay
Representative Randall Shedd, Cullman
Representative Jack Williams, Wilmer

These representatives join a team of public servants who previously endorsed Judge Moore’s bid for U.S. Senate:
Representative Tim Wadsworth, Arley
Representative Isaac Whorton, Valley
Representative Ed Henry, Hartselle
Representative Becky Nordgren, Gadsden
Representative Mike Holmes, Wetumpka
Representative Mike Ball, Madison
Representative Tommy Hanes, Scottsboro
Representative Mack Butler, Rainbow City
Representative Rich Wingo, Tuscaloosa
Representative Randy Wood, Anniston
Representative Ritchie Whorton, Scottsboro
Representative Danny Crawford, Athens
Representative Lynn Greer, Rogersville
Representative K.L Brown, Jacksonville
Representative Paul Beckman, Prattville

RUSSELLVILLE- The Franklin County Drug Task Force, Investigators, and Deputies made the following arrests in the past 60 days.

Sheriff Shannon Oliver said he is very proud of the work of these officers.

“They worked very hard and put forth a great effort to make all of these arrests in this short amount of time,” said Oliver.

Those arrested were:
1. Timothy Lane, 38, of 715 Franklin St. Russellville, AL, arrested for outstanding warrant.
2. James Guy Riggs, 39, of 1043 Bethlehem Rd. Russellville, AL arrested for Probation Violation.
3. Stacy Marie Payton, 29, of 32850 Hwy 25N Golden, MS arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance.

4. Cecilia Speakman Motes, 31, of 1528 Hwy 64 Spruce Pine, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance w/ intent to distribute and Attempting to Elude.
5. Jeremy David Motes, 41, of 1305 Hwy 13 Spruce Pine, AL arrested for Attempting to Elude, Resisting Arrest and outstanding warrants.
6. Alysia Uzdil, 40, of 1035 McGuire Loop Russellville, AL arrested for DUI.
7. Pedro Gaspar Pedro, 20, of 2063 Willow Dr Russellville, AL arrested for Endangering Welfare of a Child.
8. David Scott Frost, 45, of 162 Frost Ln Russellville, AL arrested for Theft of Property 2nd and Possession of Controlled Substance.
9. Ashley Nicole Baker, 31, of 121 Ethan Ave Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance.
10. Bruce Wayne Cothrum, 43, of 100 Town & Country Lot E1 Russellville, AL arrested for Violation of Protection Order.
11. Jeffrey Dewayne Baker, 53, of 408 Lauderdale St Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
12. Phillip Dewayne Edwards, 25, of 4979 Hwy 77 Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance.
13. Jeffrey Wade Campbell, 39, of 5041 Hwy 20 Phil Campbell, AL arrested for DUI.
14. Marty Joseph Duncan, 27, of 1043 Vandiver Hollow Rd Tuscumbia, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
15. Jerry Joshua Alexander, 37, of Double Springs, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance.
16. Maxwell Leo Thigpen, 54, of Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Tampering w/ Evidence.
17. Hershel Ray Dutton Jr, 42, of 1955 Co Rd 167 Moulton, AL arrested for Theft of Property 1st.
18. Dylan Blake Dutton, 19, of 1318 Jackson Ave Russellville, AL arrested for Theft of Property 1st.
19. Dallas Colton Dutton, 18, of 100 Town & Country Lot A12 arrested for Theft of Property 1st.
20. Christopher Hubert Martin, 34, of 32800 Hwy 724 Russellville, AL arrested for Burglary 3rd.
21. Adam Lee Strickland, 22, of 1331 Railsplitter Rd Phil Campbell, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
22. Timothy Andrew Arnold, 31, of 100 Russell De Villa D1 Russellville, AL arrested for Child Abuse and Domestic Violence 2nd.
23. Cory Lee Aday, 27, of 85 Woodstown Rd Leighton, AL arrested for Burglary 1st.
24. Michael Damian Baker, 33, of Russellville, AL arrested for Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication.
25. Pamela Rene Morris, 42, of 724 Mon Dye Rd Phil Campbell, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
26. Walter Ray Dutton, 40, of 6144 Co Rd 136 Town Creek, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
27. Austin Lee Shirley, 23, of 6021 Gravel Hill Rd Phil Campbell, AL arrested for Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Drug Paraphernalia.
28. Jeremy Ross Brooks, 30, 896 Hindman Rd Hodges, AL arrested for outstanding warrants, Possession of Controlled Substance, Drug Paraphernalia and Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd.
29. Tammy Sue Bell, 37, 812 Gaines Ave Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Tampering w/ Evidence.
30. Lisa Marie Clark, 39, of 1949 Hwy 48 Russellville, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
31. Brandon Earl Clark, 22, of 1949 Hwy 48 Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and outstanding warrants.
32. Jason Sherman Baker, 40, of 282 4th Ave Hamilton, AL arrested for DUI.
33. Terry Lee James, 48, of 111 Village Green K2 Red Bay, AL arrested for Receiving Stolen Property 4th.
34. Stacy James, 44, of 111 Village Green K2 Red Bay, AL arrested for Receiving Stolen Property 4th.
35. Marina Black, 19, of 2404 Hwy 41 Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Marijuana 1st.
36. Bowen Kyle Self, 31, of 988 Hwy 324 Vina, AL arrested for DUI.
37. Samantha Lynn Dickinson, 26, of 37502 Hwy 43 Hackleburg, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and Attempt to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime.
38. Joshua Timothy Medina, 33, 15365 Hwy 24 Russellville, AL arrested for Theft of Property 2nd.
39. Donald Ray Humphres, 49, 3727 Hwy 247 Red Bay, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
40. Brian Keith Hamm, 44, of 4753 Hwy 11 Red Bay, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia.
41. Robert Lee Eaves, 31, of 531 Cuba Ridge Rd Phil Campbell, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
42. Dion Edward Joseph, 41, of 174 Hwy 32 Vina, AL arrested for outstanding warrant.
43. Courtney Renay Parker, 27, of 2800 Old Vina Rd Red Bay, AL arrested for Burglary 1st, Possession of Controlled Substance, Disorderly Conduct, Public Intoxication, Resisting Arrest, Attempting to Elude, Assault 2nd, and Chemical Endangerment of a Child.
44. J.C. Sonny Johnson, 48, of Tremont, MS arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Tampering w/ Evidence, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, Attempting to Elude, Assault 3rd and Obstructing Government Operation.
45. Darin Scott Stanphill, 47, of 166 Johnson Kelton Cir Golden, MS arrested for Chemical Endangerment of Child, Resisting Arrest and Obstructing Government Operation.
46. Stephanie Renae Smith, 40, 910 Old Vina Rd Vina, AL arrested for Chemical Endangerment of Child, Possession of Controlled Substance and Obstructing Government Operation.
47. James Alan Lindley, 48, 518 Meadow Dr Red Bay, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Drug Paraphernalia and outstanding warrants.
48. Christopher Michael Burney, 40, of Vinemont, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and outstanding warrants.
49. Joseph Anthony McCalpin, 34, of 440 3rd St Russellville, AL arrested for Distribution of Controlled Substance.
50. Jeremy Dale Parrish, 24, of 86 Thomas Dr Russellville, AL arrested for outstanding warrant.
51. Gary Don Williams, 39, of Phil Campbell, AL arrested for Drug Trafficking.
52. Tiana Fay Hyde, 27, of Ford Rd Phil Campbell, AL arrested for Drug Trafficking, Chemical Endangerment of Child, Possession of Controlled Substance and Distribution of Controlled Substance.
53. Gregory James Etinger Jr, 41, of Russellville, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
54. Mark Anthony Pruitt, 43, of 843 Hwy 183 Haleyville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Drug Paraphernalia.
55. Joshua Benjamin Johnson, 23, of 4201 Hwy 34 Haleyville, AL arrested for Possession of Marijuana 2nd.
56. Jason Floyd Baker, 37, 1673 Hwy 40 Phil Campbell, AL arrested for Unlawful Breaking/Entering a Vehicle and Public Intoxication.
57. Brandon Wayne Holland, 21, of 4697 Hwy 187 Hamilton, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and Possession of Marijuana 2nd.
58. Jason Alexander Palmer, 21, of 1802 Peabody St Florence, AL arrested for Illegal Possession of Prescription Medication.
59. Zachary Steven Hall, 21, 439 Hwy 28 Red Bay, AL arrested for Disorderly Conduct, Public Intoxication and Illegal Possession of Prohibited Liquor.
60. Travis Wade Nix, 39, 90 Campbell Arms B8 Phil Campbell, AL arrested for 3 counts of Burglary 3rd, Theft of Property 1st, Theft of Property 2nd, Theft of Property 4th.
61. Elizabeth Marie Vandiver, 34, of 1588 Hwy 89 Phil Campbell, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
62. Eric Glenn Campbell, 47, 4522 Hwy 20 Phil Campbell, AL arrested of Possession of Controlled Substance, Drug Paraphernalia and outstanding warrants.
63. Brandon Lewis Hurley, 33, of 6720 Hwy 19 Apt. 59 Vina, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and outstanding warrants.
64. William Everett Taylor, 44, of 188 Stults Rd Hackleburg, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance w/ Intent to Distribute.
65. Joshua Wade Baker, 31, of 224 Austin Dr Phil Campbell, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and outstanding warrants.
66. Charles Coleman Poores, 29, of 1137 Hwy 23 Vina, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
67. Heather Deanna Hughes, 40, of Iuka, MS arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance.
68. Eric Rayburn Miller, 39, of Red Bay, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
69. Kaden Duane Oxendine, 22, of 722 Hwy 94 Russellville, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
70. Megan Renee Wilson, 30, 722 Hwy 94 Russellville, AL arrested for Hindering Prosecution 2nd.
71. James William Jones, 43, 100 Ridgecrest B5 Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Marujuana 1st, Resisting Arrest, Attempting to Elude, Illegal Possession of Prescription Medication, and outstanding warrants.
72. Mark Lee Davis, 27, 960 Ingle St Hackleburg, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Resisting Arrest, Attempting to Elude, Assault 3rd, Drug Paraphernalia and outstanding warrants.
73. Peter Michael Luttrell, 27, of 183 Frederick Rollins Rd Hackleburg, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Attempting to Elude and Drug Paraphernalia.
74. William Seth Frederick, 21, 805 Hammock Rd Golden, MS arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Drug Paraphernalia and Attempting to Elude.
75. Joshua James Gibson, 31, of 1971 Hwy 61 Spruce Pine, AL arrested for outstanding warrant.
76. Mindy Leann Woodard, 32, of 8572 Hwy 48 Russellville, AL arrested for Drug Trafficking, Possession of Controlled Substance, Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd and Drug Paraphernalia.
77. Deandra Kaye Whitehead, 33, of 4191 Duncan Creek Rd Russellville, AL arrested for Drug Trafficking, Possession of Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia.
78. Derek Kendall Motes, 29, of Phil Campbell, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
79. Anthony Dewayne Baker, 35, of Phil Campbell, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
80. JK Abbott Jr, 52, of Russellville, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
81. Norma Benefield Castle, 46, of Russellville, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
82. William Paul Quillen, 63, of 100 Town & Country C8 Russellville, AL arrested for Hindering Prosecution 2nd.
83. Justin Thomas Mayfield, 30, of 1680 Elm St Russellville, AL arrested of Possession of Controlled Substance and outstanding warrants.
84. Courtney Ray Strickland, 35, 100 Triplett Dr Red Bay, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
85. Jennifer King Hughes, 38, of 703 Gum St Russellville, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
86. Kimberly Leann Lafine, 28, Hwy 80 Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance.
87. Barry RC Lane Jr, 27, Beach St Russellville, AL arrested for outstanding warrants.
88. Carl Clinton Hall, 29, Mullins Ave Russellville,AL arrested for Distribution of Controlled Substance.
89. Tina Louise Edwards, 42, Mullins Ave Russellville, AL arrested for Conspiracy to Commit Controlled Substance Crime.
90. Billy Joe Snow, 34, Hwy 81 Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Resisting Arrest, Drug Paraphernalia and outstanding warrants.
91. Stevens Ray Higgins, 42, Lost Creek Rd Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance.
92. Stephen Shane Powell, 35, Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and Promoting Prison Contraband 2nd.
93. Ashley Nicole James, 28, Green Rd Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance.
94. Clark Norman Kendrick, 42, Signore Dr Russellville, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance, Assault 1st, Assault 3rd, Resisting Arrest, Drug Paraphernalia, Attempting to Elude, Disorderly Conduct, Reckless Endangerment and outstanding warrants.
95. Ana Maria Brooks, 21, Underwood Mtn Rd Tuscumbia, AL arrested for Possession of Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia.
96. Jacob Alexander Williams, 18, Sagefield St Fulton, MS arrested for Rape 2nd.
97. Michelle Lynn Mitchell, 42, Hwy 56 Russellville, AL arrested for Drug Paraphernalia and Public Intoxication.
98. Malea Dawn Smelser, 39, Gail Ave Russellville, AL arrested for Drug Trafficking and Possession of Controlled Substance.
Sheriff Shannon Oliver said he is very proud of the work of these officers.
“ They worked very hard and put forth a great effort to make all of these arrests in this short amount of time.”

The following people were arrested on Friday 13th in a Countywide drug roundup:

• Brian Eugene Wellington, 35, 906 Carolyn St., Tuscumbia; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Tamika Tenise Whitson, 31, 3201 John R St., Muscle Shoals; trafficking methamphetamine.

• James Dale Carbine, 54, 325 Trade St., Florence; two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Demetrius Montrell Underwood, 30, 701 W. Sixth St., Sheffield; trafficking methamphetamine.

• Paul Arlonda Mason IV, 27, 907 Bedford Drive Southwest, Decatur; trafficking methamphetamine.

• LaShanda Marie Gavin, 32, 213 Marietta St., Florence; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Stacey LaJune Abston, 49, 1367 Lauderdale 124, Florence; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Jerry Lee Brewer Jr., 406 S. Weakley St., Florence; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• James Michael Harper, 36, 419 Lelia St., Florence; unlawful possession of a controlled substance, and breaking and entering a motor vehicle.

• Daren Lynn Moore, 25, 5709 Lauderdale 73, Florence; trafficking opium (heroin).

• John Sterling Heath III, 36, 500 Leslie Ave., Tuscumbia; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a controlled substance x 2

• Richard Stephen Leboeuf, 27, 160 Tower Road, Killen; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Kevin Blackburn, 44, 201 Winstead Road, Spruce Pine; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Brian Keith Hamm, 44, 100 Summerfield Road, Russellville; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Richard Andre Anderson, 27, 130 Jarmon Way, Leighton; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance x 3

• James Michael Harper, 36, 317 Alabama St., Killen; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• K’vion Ruffin 19, 1901 Robertson Boulevard, Sheffield; first-degree theft of property.

• Brandon Eugene Myrick, 22, 2300 Gilbert Lane, Cherokee; third-degree escape.

• Harold Nunnery, 54, Sterling Boulevard, Sheffield; second-degree receiving stolen property.

• Camryn Cagle, 24, 343 Alf Harris Road, Prospect, Tennessee; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• John Sawyer Denton, 18, Muscle Shoals; first-degree possession of marijuana.

• Bobby Allen Davis, 37, Tuscumbia; unlawful possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

• William “B.J.” Davis, 35, Tuscumbia; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Candice Gillespie, 33, 4994 Alabama 247, Tuscumbia; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Michaela Brianne Daniel, 37, 3446 Franklin 52, Spruce Pine; unlawful possession of a controlled substance and second-degree promoting prison contraband.

• Haylee Deneal Aday, 18, 45 J Aday Road, Leighton; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Christy Renee Hester, 40, 108 JD Pace St., Russellville; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Casie Marie Winborn, 28, 111 Sockwell Ave., Russellville; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• John David McCracken, 28, 355 First St., Hamilton; unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

• Blain Lee Saint, 23, 200 Spurgeon Road, Russellville; unlawful possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute.

• Gary Brian McCaig, 48, 1600 Wagnon Mountain Road, Tuscumbia; first-degree possession of marijuana.

• Lapaslee Lamar Pride, 27, 5145 U.S. 72, Killen; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance.

• Thomas Cade Roper, 31, 802 Midland Ave., Muscle Shoals; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance.

• Calvin Dwight Flannagan, 53, 200 Fuller Store Road, Leighton; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Carl Clinton Hall, 39, 414 Cataco St., Russellville; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Chance Uriah Race, 20, 220 Lawton Ave., Florence; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance.

• Erasmo Victor Cruz, 36, 111 W. Tunstall St., Tuscumbia; first-degree possession of marijuana.

• Cecil Grant Nesmith, 34, 155 Virginia St., Russellville; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Thomas Bradley Copeland, 43, 2435 River Road, Muscle Shoals; unlawful distribution of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Kenneth Smallwood, 50, Tuscumbia; unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Michael Allen Gravitte, 54, 2900 12th Ave., Haleyville; unlawful manufacturing of a controlled substance, first-degree possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

• Gunner Eagle Innis, 26, 207 Riverbluff Drive, Sheffield unlawful possession of a controlled substance and unlawful distribution of a controlled substance.

L-R Alexia Hovater, Kaylee Buchanan, Harley Carter McCormick, and Caroline Bishop.  Back Row, L-R Coach Maggie Finley, Jmyia Lipscomb, Lindsey Walker, Sara Puckett, Gracie Beth ButlerKailey Armstrong, Emma Cobb, Kayleigh Wright, Jessica Godsey, and Jaiden Armstrong.

MUSCLE SHOALS–You have to give credit where credit is due and the Muscle Shoals Varsity Girls Volleyball Team

is the talk of the town after their performance in the Colbert County Tournament today.

They beat out  Sheffield, Colbert Heights, Deshler, and Cherokee in the finals. 

Pictured on the front row, L-R Alexia Hovater, Kaylee Buchanan, Harley Carter McCormick, and Caroline Bishop.  Back Row, L-R Coach Maggie Finley, Jmyia Lipscomb, Lindsey Walker, Sara Puckett, Gracie Beth ButlerKailey Armstrong, Emma Cobb, Kayleigh Wright, Jessica Godsey, and Jaiden Armstrong.