Higher Education Leaders Report Major Expansions, New Programs in Annual Address in Anniston

ANNISTON, AL — July 18, 2025 — Leaders from Jacksonville State University and Gadsden State Community College presented their annual State of Higher Education report Friday, detailing substantial infrastructure investments, new academic programs, and workforce development initiatives that demonstrate significant growth across both institutions. The presentation, held at the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce boardroom, […]
Fourth Annual Calhoun County Community Art Show Opens at JSU’s Hammond Hall

Jacksonville, AL – The Fourth Annual Calhoun County Community Art Show officially opened this week at the Hammond Hall Gallery on the campus of Jacksonville State University (JSU). Sponsored by the Jacksonville Arts Council and JSU’s Department of Art and Design, the exhibit celebrates the creative work of artists of all ages and experience levels […]
Be Honest!: US Cops Documentary Series Featuring Oxford Police Department S3E76

Oxford, AL – First Responders is a gripping German documentary series that offers a deeply personal and emotional glimpse into the lives of frontline workers. Through powerful storytelling, it reveals their relentless commitment, the intense challenges they face each day, and the personal toll their work can take. By highlighting their resilience and compassion, the […]
Calhoun County Hosts Annual Beautification Awards Ceremony Honoring Local Property Owners

Anniston, AL – On Friday, July 18, 2025, the Calhoun County Commission and the County Beautification Board hosted their annual Beautification Awards Ceremony to recognize residents and businesses across all five districts for their exceptional efforts in maintaining and enhancing the visual appeal of their properties. County Commissioners Fred Wilson (District 1), Danny Shears (District […]
Tomato & Watermelon Tasting at Longleaf Celebrates Local Flavor Amid New Support for Alabama Growers

Anniston, AL — Longleaf Botanical Gardens recently hosted its annual Tomato & Watermelon Tasting on Thursday, July 17, at the Longleaf Event Center. The event combined two Southern summer staples in one flavorful gathering, offering creative tastings, refreshing beverages, and informative displays for attendees of all ages. The evening featured inventive dishes like watermelon gazpacho, […]
Full-Circle Success: Rosa Lee’s Boutique Shines in Downtown Anniston

Anniston, AL – In the heart of downtown Anniston, Rosa Lee’s Boutique stands as a testament to perseverance, creativity, and community impact. At the helm is owner Dara Murphy, a dynamic entrepreneur who has come full circle—operating her successful boutique in the very location where she landed her first job at Couch’s Jewelers. Dara credits […]
Ohatchee Candidates Present Visions for Town’s Future at Chamber-Hosted Forum

OHATCHEE, AL — Candidates for mayor and town council positions outlined their priorities for Ohatchee’s future during a public forum hosted by the Calhoun County Area Chamber of Commerce on Thursday evening at Ohatchee High School. The forum, moderated by Jacob Williamson with Linda Hearn, Executive Director of the Chamber, featured two mayoral candidates and 11 […]
Jacksonville City Schools Receives Clean Audit Report, Shows Strong Financial Health

JACKSONVILLE, AL – Jacksonville City Schools received outstanding marks across all financial and compliance measures during their July board meeting, with auditor Scott Lee of Richard, Harris, Ingram and Bozeman, PC delivering what he called “a great audit report” that the district “should be proud of.” Perfect Audit Results Highlight Fiscal Responsibility The comprehensive audit revealed […]
Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation Earns Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator

Gadsden, AL – The Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation has earned the highest possible rating—a Four-Star designation—from Charity Navigator, the nation’s leading independent evaluator of nonprofit organizations. This recognition reflects the Foundation’s strong financial health, operational transparency, and continued impact in supporting Gadsden State Community College. The Four-Star Rating designates the Cardinal Foundation as an official […]
Senate Passes Bipartisan Fishing Enforcement Bill with Support from Senator Katie Britt

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate has passed the Illegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at strengthening enforcement against illegal fishing practices. The bill was led by U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-AL), in partnership with Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX), Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), and Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI). The […]