Calhoun County Commission Honors Local Heroes and Celebrates Community Achievements in November Meeting

Calhoun County, AL – The Calhoun County Commission held a regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, November 14th, 2024.

Call To Order
- Chairwoman Henderson – Present
- Commissioner Wilson – Present
- Commissioner Shears – Present
- Commissioner Howell – Present
- Commissioner Patterson – Present
Invocation/Pledge Of Allegiance
Adopt Agenda – Unanimously Approved
Proclamations:
- Mr. Dennis Newman
  - The proclamation for Dennis Newman celebrated his life of unwavering service, humility, and dedication to his community, family, and faith. Commissioner Terry Howell and Sheriff Matthew Wade, among others, reflected on Newman’s extraordinary impact, highlighting his roles as a devoted husband, father, church member, and friend. Newman’s legacy was marked by acts of service, including managing the Saks High School football team with unmatched dedication, driving the church van, and participating in mission trips to build churches. He also took immense pride in maintaining the cleanliness of his community, regularly picking up litter along Saks Road and Highway 431. His efforts were tragically cut short when he lost his life while performing this act of service.Sheriff Wade shared personal anecdotes, recalling Newman’s warmth as a neighbor who brought cookies at Christmas and always stopped to chat. Wade emphasized how Newman’s kindness left a lasting impression, stating that if more people emulated him, the world would be a better place.The proclamation, signed by all county commissioners, recognized Newman’s selflessness and the profound example he set for others, honoring his legacy and the enduring impact he had on those around him.

- Jacksonville Christian Academy Football
  - The Jacksonville Christian Academy (JCA) football team received a special commendation from Commissioner Lee Patterson in recognition of their extraordinary achievement: winning the Alabama Christian Football Association (ACFA) eight-man football championship. This marks a historic milestone for the team as it is their first championship in this league, achieved through determination, teamwork, and faith.Commissioner Patterson opened the recognition ceremony by quoting Jeremiah 29:11, emphasizing the importance of faith in guiding the team’s journey. He celebrated the coaches and players for their perseverance throughout the season, which culminated in a stunning victory over Russell Christian Academy. As reigning champions with seven consecutive titles, Russell Christian posed a significant challenge. However, JCA triumphed 37-26 in what Patterson described as a “David-and-Goliath” matchup.The proclamation highlighted JCA’s legacy, noting that while the school may be small in numbers, it is “immense in heart and talent.” With prior championships in other conferences, their last in 2001, this season’s success marks a return to glory. JCA had a challenging season, finishing 7-2, but their semifinal victory of 58-26 set the stage for their championship win.The ceremony reflected the integral role of faith in the team’s preparation and success. Coach Stephen Lee shared how worship services were held before both the semifinal and championship games, reinforcing the team’s commitment to keeping faith at the center of their journey. He emphasized that victory or defeat, prioritizing God was the “right thing to do,” and it ultimately paid off.
    During the event, each team member was called forward to receive an individual certificate of recognition. Players such as Moses Averitt (#32), Bryson Dowdy (#1), and Nick Broder (#46), along with others, were acknowledged for their contributions. Coaches, including Stephen Lee, Scott Morgan, Jamie Gould, and Tommy Miller, were also celebrated for their leadership and dedication.
    
    The ceremony concluded with a group photo, during which Patterson expressed his gratitude for the example set by the team, encouraging them to continue striving for excellence. The event celebrated not just a championship, but also the values of hard work, community, and faith that define JCA. The players were reminded that this moment will remain a cherished memory for years to come.

Adopt Minutes – Unanimously Approved
Elected Official/Department Head Comments
- Recognition of Gloria Floyd
  - The Calhoun County Commission honored Attorney Gloria Floyd for her outstanding 17 years of service as County Attorney. The ceremony featured heartfelt tributes led by Representative Dr. Barbara Boyd, Commissioners Carolyn Henderson and Fred Wilson, and Senator Keith Kelley. Dr. Boyd opened the recognition with an emotional acknowledgment of Floyd’s contributions to the county and her personal journey, highlighting her achievements as a trailblazer and leader. She shared her deep connection with Floyd and expressed gratitude for their shared history of navigating challenges together. Boyd commended Floyd for being the first African-American female County Attorney in Calhoun County and for her unwavering commitment to justice and community service.Floyd’s educational accomplishments were celebrated, including her graduation cum laude from Jacksonville State University, earning a Juris Doctor from the Birmingham School of Law, and passing the Alabama State Bar on her first attempt—an achievement Boyd described as extraordinary.Commissioner Fred Wilson delivered a moving tribute, referencing gospel and country music to illustrate the impact Floyd has had on the community, calling her “daughter number four.” He lauded her for her dedication, kindness, and positive influence.
    Floyd expressed heartfelt gratitude to her family, mentors, and colleagues, acknowledging the support she received throughout her career. She reflected on the profound impact of her 17 years with the county, noting that while she gave her all to the role, the county also shaped her into the professional she is today. She emphasized her commitment to continuing to serve the residents of Calhoun County even after stepping down.
    
    The ceremony underscored Floyd’s legacy of leadership, resilience, and dedication, leaving a lasting impression on the Calhoun County community.
Old Business
- ABC Board Application – Dollar General Store 30718 (2^ND reading) – Unanimously Approved
- Nuisance Abatements: – Unanimously Approved
  - 1185 Morrisville Road, Anniston – Jacqueline Stewart
  - 79 Fieldstone Way, Jacksonville – Brandon & Angela Frost
  - 4759 Eulaton Road, Anniston – Larry Sims
  - Church Street S., Alexandria – Joshua G. & Connie M. Starling
- Nuisance Dismissals: – Unanimously Approved
  - 10 Elaine Street, Alexandria – Kristena Clark
  - 3690 W. 14^th Street, Anniston – Henry A. Sterling
  - 1051 W. 33^rd Street, Anniston – April Coggins
  - l Street, Anniston – Sara Ann Moates
- Nuisance Invoice: – Unanimously Approved
  - 2033 Old Choccolocco Road, Anniston – John Taylor (Est.) & Cathy Lyn, $1,026.00
New Business
- Nuisance Declarations: – Unanimously Approved
  - 428 S. Marshall Street, Anniston – William Horace & Mary McMichael
  - 4644 Saks Road, Anniston – James Nicholas Moore
  - 1810 Morrisville Road, Anniston – Jerry & Johnny Haynes
  - 1887 Dripping Rock Road, Piedmont – Martha Ann Thrasher
  - 7751 AL. Highway 9, Anniston – Billy Lindsey
  - 509 Chipola Street, Anniston – Linda Joyner
  - 255 Hammonds Drive, Alexandria – Kim Stephenson
- ABC Board Application – Otter Creek Distillery (1^st reading) – No Action
- Bid Award Resolution – Public Nuisance Demolition/Removal – Unanimously Approved
  - Bids accepted were awarded to Wendy Thorton, LLC
- Veterinary Services Agreement – Unanimously Approved
- Titanium Merchant Services Agreement – Woodland Park – Unanimously Approved
- Surplus Property Resolutions:
  - Commission – 2024 Ford Truck – Unanimously Approved
  - Maintenance Department – 2002 Dodge Ram, 2006 Ford Ranger – Unanimously Approved
  - Sheriff’s Office – Service Weapon – Unanimously Approved
- Appraisal Department – 2001 Dodge Pickup – Unanimously Approved
- Wex Credit Card Agreement – Unanimously Approved
- AIA Change Order – ARPA Project/Jail Additions & Renovations – Unanimously Approved
- Vector Security Installation & Monitoring Agreement – Unanimously Approved
- ARPA Reallocation Resolution – Thankful Park/Ladiga Landing – Unanimously Approved
- Good Roots Grant Program Resolution – Unanimously Approved
- State Energy Program Grant Resolution – Unanimously Approved
- Regroup Subscription Agreement – Unanimously Approved
- IAC Program Maintenance & Support Agreement – Second Amendment – Unanimously Approved
- Board Appointment – DHR Board, District 2 – Unanimously Approved
- Commission Meeting Change Resolution – Unanimously Approved
Public Comments
- During the recent commission meeting, several speakers expressed gratitude, shared personal reflections, and offered heartfelt farewells to Gloria Floyd as she transitions to a new role at Jacksonville State University (JSU).
- Andy Beavers, the newly appointed director of the Calhoun Cleveland Children’s Center, began by thanking the commission for its ongoing support of the center. “The work we do is so important, and we are passionate about it. I want to thank y’all for standing by us for so many years,” Beavers said. He also took a moment to recognize Floyd, saying, “I’ve come to know Gloria Floyd, and I’m thankful to have had that opportunity. I’m going to miss you.”
- Melissa Wood, who has worked alongside Floyd for over a decade, reflected on her time with Floyd. “She’s not only my coworker; she’s my friend. I’ve watched her grow so much over the years, and I love her very much,” Wood shared. She emphasized Floyd invaluable presence in the workplace, adding, “She’s going to be greatly missed.”
- The commissioners offered tributes, each highlighting Floyd’s professionalism, guidance, and the personal connections she fostered. Commissioner Patterson described her as a steadying influence, saying, “Gloria has been a dear friend. She’s kept us glued together and directed us when we were maybe going off track. The endeavor she’s about to start with JSU is going to be fabulous, but you’ll always be cherished for what you’ve done for this commission.”Commissioner Howell, reflecting on his relatively short time on the board, remarked, “In my two years here, I’ve asked you a lot of questions, and I can’t think of a single time you didn’t take the time to answer me. I appreciate all the help you’ve given me to get me this far.”Commissioner Henderson spoke of a deeply personal connection, referring to Floyd as “the sister I don’t have.” She expressed gratitude for Floyd’s support during challenging times and her bond with Henderson’s late family member, Eli. “Eli loved her more than anything in the world,” she said. “She’ll always be my sister.”Commissioner Shears acknowledged the difficulty of replacing someone with Floyd’s depth of knowledge. “Anytime a person leaves an organization with the most knowledge, there’s going to be a hole for a while,” he noted. He praised Floyd’s professionalism and quick follow-through, saying, “If she didn’t know an answer right away, she’d find out and get back with me within an hour. That kind of dedication is rare.”
  Sheriff Matthew Wade echoed these sentiments, highlighting the mutual respect they shared. “There have been times we’ve argued and times we’ve agreed, but you were always right and always classy,” he said. “While JSU is gaining a wonderful person, we’ll definitely miss you.”
  
  The meeting concluded with light-hearted but heartfelt remarks, including Commissioner Wilson’s poetic tribute: “You’re as smooth as Tennessee whiskey, as sweet as strawberry wine, as warm as a glass of brandy. I stay stoned on your love all the time. I love you.”
  
  The collective words of appreciation underscored Floyd’s impact on both a professional and personal level, with her departure leaving a lasting legacy at the commission.
Adjourn – Unanimously Approved

Next Meeting: Thursday, December 19, 2024, 10:00 a.m.

Paid Advertisement – Click for More Information