The South Alabamian

Man shot in downtown Jackson

By Evan Carden SA Editor — 11/20/2008

Jackson Police officers responded quickly to a shooting Friday, Nov. 14, at the Exxon GoCo South, located across the street from the police station. According to Jackson Police Chief Charles Burge, the incident took place around 4:30 p.m. and ended with one person shot in the abdomen and another arrested and charged in the shooting.

Jackson city flag to travel in Iraq

11/20/2008

From left, Executive Officer Major Nathaniel Shropshire, former Jackson City Councilman 1st Lt. Anthony D. Jackson, Lt. Col. David Whaling and Sgt. Major Orlando Santiago, all of the 157th Command Battalion, display the Jackson city flag, which will make its way across Iraq. Lt. Col. Whaling, Jackson's commander, will take the City of Jackson flag on tours throughout Iraq and present the flag back to Jackson. Lt. Jackson was deployed with 157th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion in July. He recently conveyed a message stating that the citizens of Jackson are well represented in Iraq as the flag is transported across the country during his deployment. This flag will be presented back to Jackson Mayor Richard Long upon the redeployment of 1st Lt. Jackson. Jackson's job in Iraq is to supervise battalion operations and training of 500-plus soldiers. He said he loves his job, which is not much different from his Wal-Mart job back in the states. Jackson told Lt. Col. Whaling that he is proud of his city and its citizens and there has never been a more supportive community. He also mentioned that the citizens of the United States are blessed to live in a country that preserves freedom and gives everybody the right to worship, be educated and to have a voice in their government. "Never take these things for granted and be thankful everyday that you lived there," he said. Jackson sends thanks back home to the Thomasville Wal- Mart Store where he is employed, the citizens of Jackson and the mayor and city council of Jackson for their support while he is deployed. He also sends his love to his family, wife, Tiffany Jackson and their three children, Destiny, Dakendren and Domanek.

Calvert man pleads guilty to murder

From staff and other media reports — 11/20/2008

A Calvert man pleaded guilty to the Aug. 13, 2006 murder of his wife in Washington County Criminal Court last week. Rayfield Rodgers, 64, admitted to shooting Maggie Gaines Rodgers, 53, in the chest with a .32-caliber revolver during an argument in their Gaines Road home.

Wreck claims life of child

By Evan Carden SA Editor — 11/20/2008

A McIntosh Elementary School student was killed in a two-vehicle crash, Monday, Nov. 17, around 7:30 a.m. The wreck occurred at the intersection of U.S. Highway 43 and the south entrance to the Ciba plant in McIntosh.

Christmas tree lighting in Jackson tonight

11/20/2008

Jackson's Christmas Tree lighting, accompanied by singing and other activities will be conducted tonight (Thursday) in the downtown business district. The event will begin at 5 p.m. It was originally set for Friday night but was changed due to the playoff game between JHS and UMS Wright on Friday.

Community prayer rally conducted in support of President-elect Obama

Special to The South Alabamian — 11/20/2008

The Southwest Alabama Ministerial Alliance sponsored an Obama Victory Celebration & Praise Rally Sunday, Nov. 16, 6 p.m. at Mt. Olive No. 2 Baptist Church, Jackson. The purpose of the program was to come together collectively to pray for President-elect Obama and the United States of America. The event was attended by an estimated 500 people.

WashCo Commission moving on land sale and sewerage project

By Ellen Williams SA Reporter — 11/20/2008

On Wednesday, November 12, Tracie Meinhardt, realtor, brought to the Washington County Commission an offer from a prospective buyer for 30 of 80 acres the county owns in the south end of the county near the ThyssenKrupp site. The buyer made an offer of $2,123,050 for 30 acres across the front of the property.

WashCo Commissioners sworn in

11/20/2008

Three Washington County Commissioners were sworn in for four-year terms during the Wednesday, Nov. 12 county commission meeting. Top, left, William "Termite" Beasley takes the oath of office administered by Washington County Probate Judge Charles Singleton (right), who also serves as chairman of the county commission. Bottom, left, Herman Williams takes his oath of office for his first full term as the District 5 commissioner. The spot was previously held by Willie Dixon of Frankville. Bottom, right, Kesler Weaver Sr. is the new District 1 Commissioner, replacing Johnny Johnston, who did not seek re-election. He was accompanied by his wife, Myrtle (left). (Photos by Ellen Williams)

Jackson Academy burglarized

11/20/2008

According to Jackson Police Chief Charles Burge, a burglary was reported at Jackson Academy Tuesday, Nov. 18. The chief said it is believed the break-in occurred sometime Monday night, Nov. 17.

Kills first deer

11/20/2008

Nathan Hutto (left) with his Poppa Terry Hutto (right) killed his first deer Saturday afternoon, Nov. 15. The doe was taken at a patch in Walker Springs.

Careful holiday feeding for pets

11/20/2008

The holidays are rushing around the corner at a breakneck speed for us all. Please don't forget about your pets during the hubbub. Our pets depend on us daily for the care and love they so richly deserve. Remember while you are enjoying holiday foods and treats, it's important NOT to give the same foods to your animals.

Pine City Tour of Homes is December 7

11/20/2008

The Student Ministry of First Baptist Church of Jackson will be sponsoring their second Pine City Tour of Homes on Sunday, Dec. 7. The tour will begin at 4 p.m. and last until 7. A candlelight dessert buffet will be provided from 5:30-7:30 at the newly-remodeled First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.

Wagarville woman accused of eating stash while eluding deputies

By Evan Carden SA Editor — 11/20/2008

A Wagarville woman was arrested Friday, Nov. 14, and accused of eating her stash of marijuana while eluding sheriff's deputies. According to Washington County Chief Deputy Terry Beasley, Deputy DeShone Holloway attempted to stop Barbara Allen Parnell, 50, around 9:25 p.m. Parnell reportedly would not stop and Holloway requested backup.

Church Calendar

11/20/2008

Rockville Baptist hosts 5th Sunday singing The Rockville Baptist Church th will host a 5 Sunday singing Nov. 30, starting at 6 p.m. featuring Endless Praise of Theodore. Pastor Mark Dunn invites all attend.

Photo

11/20/2008

The Pastor's Assistance Committee of Mt. Olive Baptist Church No. 2, Jackson, invites everyone to their second annual pre-Thanksgiving service Sunday, Nov. 23 at 3 p.m. The combined choirs of the Grove Hill Missionary Baptist Church of the Eliska community of Uriah will be featured in concert. Dr. T.L. Douglas is their pastor. Also on program will be the Jackson Male Chorus and Mrs. Flora McKenzie. Dr. Edsel Davis Sr. is interim pastor at Mt. Olive No. 2 and encourages the public to attend. Members (L-R) seated are Martha Parker, treasurer; Jettie Johnson, financial secretary; Catherine Pruitt, vice president; Hattie Sampson, president; standing: Bessie Todd, Carolyn Jackson, Essie Gamble, Retha Bettis, Margaret Pernell, Mattie Jones, assistant secretary; Harriette Douglas, correspondence secretary; not pictured are Regenia Robinson, secretary and Mary Donald.

Step Sing set for Nov. 30

11/20/2008

The annual Christmas Step Sing is planned for Sunday night, Nov. 30, at 6 p.m. on the steps of the First United Methodist Church in Jackson. Local church and school choirs are invited to participate. Choirs are asked to call the FUMC at 246-2224 if they are planning on singing a selection of Christmas music.

Too many churches are asleep on the job

11/20/2008

How many Christians say "Roll Tide" and "War Eagle", but rarely or sincerely say "Praise the Lord"? These are evil days and believers ought to make good use of all time, energy, resources, etc.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

11/20/2008

Step Sing set for Nov. 30 The annual Christmas Step Sing is planned for Sunday night, Nov. 30, at 6 p.m. on the steps of the First United Methodist Church in Jackson. Local church and school choirs are invited to participate.

Jackson mayor proclaims Tuesday, Nov. 18 as 'Retired Teacher's Day'

11/20/2008

Jackson Mayor Richard Long recently signed a proclamation announcing Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2008 as 'Retired Teacher's Day' in the city.

2008 Leroy Mini Mite Cheerleaders

11/20/2008

Front (L-R) Bailey Sullivan, Mary Catherine Butts, Sydney Pettis, Isabella King, Kerrigan Carpenter, Kylie Pitts and Rachel Alday; back row: Kamri Dunagan, Kaleigh Jones, Julianna Marks, Kasey Elmore, Dezirae Roney

Complete computer class

11/20/2008

Students recently completed a four-week adult basic computer class sponsored by White Smith Memorial Library held at Alabama Southern Community College in Jackson. Students studied basic terminology, Internet Explorer, e-mail and Microsoft Word. Those completing the course were, front (L-R): Sheryl Whitmore, Sally Beverly, Carlyn Beckham, Shirley Dolbear and Marie Sullivan; back (L-R) Colby May, Patsy Pritchett, Betsy Gorum, Carolyn Howell and instructor, Rhonda Lang.

Collins completes AIT training

11/20/2008

Pfc. Clenton E. Collins Jr. has completed AIT training as a parachute rigger. Currently home from Fort Lee, Va., his next station will be Fort Benning, Ga. with the U.S. Army Infantry School (Airborne) where he will rig parachutes for the Airborne School.

Gillmore students visit library

11/20/2008

Two Gillmore Elementary kindergarten classes visited White Smith Memorial Library during a local field trip. The students were read a story, taken on a tour of the library and given a treat during their visit. In the far right hand corner is Pat Williams who came along to help with the students during their visit. Williams retired as head librarian from White Smith Memorial Library.

Holidays will come in spite of bad economy

11/20/2008

Everyone is worried about the bad economy and how it will affect the fast approaching holiday shopping season. Although some of us may have to scale back a bit on our purchases, the most important thing about the holidays is still spending time with the people that are important to us.

Cartoon

11/20/2008

Medicare Part D open enrollment

11/20/2008

For two years now, senior Americans have been enjoying the benefits of the permanent Medicare prescription drug benefit helping them - in many cases - meet the cost of their medication. When Congress crafted the prescription drug benefit in 2003, it was a priority to introduce a competitive pricing structure to the process in order to lower drug costs for seniors.

Siegelman juror nicknamed 'Flipper' had hots for prosecutor

11/20/2008

What else could possibly turn up in the Don Siegelman case? Would you believe a juror prosecutors nicknamed "Flipper" because she entertained jurors with her gymnastic acts and had the hots for a member of the prosecution team? How about the fact that "Flipper" tried to communicate with prosecutors during the trial by passing notes through U.S. Marshalls?

Letters to the Editor

11/20/2008

County's and LP's messes Dear Editor, On Thursday, Nov. 6, 2008, the Clarke County administrator published in the Clarke County Democrat the "Annual Combined Statement of Revenues & Expenditures" for the years 2007- 2008 ending September 2008. This statement is hard to decipher unless you have the statements for previous years.

Ad Valorem exemptions explained

11/20/2008

There are some Ad Valorem exemptions that everyone should know about. First is the Homestead Exemption, which many people use to lower their tax bill. If a citizen owns the land and lives in a house on this land they can ask for and receive the Homestead Ex-emption. This saves several dollars in taxes. Usually the reduction is about $49 for the state and county.

Sweet repeat for Aggies

By Chris Sherman SA Sports Writer — 11/20/2008

The Jackson Aggies drove 97 yards with less than four minutes remaining in the game to defeat the Thomasville Tigers 17-14 Friday night at Legion Field to advance to the third round of the AHSAA playoffs. It was the second victory in the last three weeks over the Tigers.

Bears crush Raiders 47-21

By Jeremy Sellers — 11/20/2008

The Leroy Bears earned their 22 consecutive victory on Friday night with a win over the Houston Academy Raiders in the second round of the 2A state playoffs The Raiders would strike first when running back Andrew Dauphin scored on a 1-yard touchdown run. William Andre hit the extra point to give the Raiders the 7-0 lead with 5:49 remaining in the first quarter of play.

Millry rallies to top WCHS

By Chris Sherman SA Sports Writer — 11/20/2008

The Millry Wildcats advanced to the third round of the AHSAA playoffs Friday night on Wildcat Hill with a thrilling 29-24 comefrom behind win over the Washington County Bulldogs. Millry got on the scoreboard first when Nigel Jones recovered a fumble in the end zone to take a 7-0 lead with 5:47 to go in the first.

Sweet Water blanks Demons 48-0

By Marcus Gates — 11/20/2008

Sweet Water High School defeated McIntosh High School 48-0 in the second round of the AHSAA Class 1A playoffs Friday, Nov. 14 at Nolan Atkins Stadium in Sweet Water. Both teams' defenses played well in the first quarter as Sweet Water led 7-0 at the end of the period.

Busy fingers anticipated during the Iron Bowl

11/20/2008

Fear the thumb? That will fail in comparison to what will take place at Bryant Denny Stadium Nov. 29 when the Crimson Tide and Auburn Tigers get together for the 73rd time in the Iron Bowl. The story lines are almost too good to be true.

Second round playoff pairing

11/20/2008

Class 1A Sweet Water (11-1) at Brantley (12-0) Linden (12-0) at Loachapoka (9-2) Appalachian (10-2) at Gaston (10-2) South Lamar (9-3) at Speake (10-2) Class 2A Millry (10-2) at Leroy (12-0) Reeltown (11-1) at

The SEC this week

11/20/2008

Final plans announced for Atchison-McLendon

11/20/2008

Final wedding plans for Lindsey Atchison and Thomas Matthew McLendon have been announced. The wedding will be Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008 at 4 o'clock in the afternoon at the First Baptist Church of Jackson. Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Atchison of Malcolm, and Mr. and Mrs. Mark McLendon of Jackson are the parents of the couple.

Recent showers honor bride-elect Lindsey Atchison

11/20/2008

Lindsey Atchison, bride-elect of Tom McLendon, was the guest of honor at several recent showers. Miscellaneous Shower A miscellaneous bridal shower was given for Miss Atchison Sunday, Oct. 12, at the First Baptist Church of McIntosh. The shower was hosted by the ladies of Mrs. Ed Atchison's Sunday School class.

Sullivan - Harris united in marriage

11/20/2008

Angela Lynne Harris and Eric Calvin Sullivan, both of Wagarville, exchanged vows in a private ceremony Friday, Nov. 14, 2008. Parents of the couple are Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Harris Sr. and Ms. Sereda Wiggins, all of Jackson, and Mrs. Gracie J. Sullivan of Wagarville and the late Calvin Sullivan.

Good health is something most take for granted

11/20/2008

Most of us live each day without a single thought that we might have a serious illness. One day you think you are healthy and the next day you find out you have a life threatening health problem. This came to mind when Lynda Bolen Chastain, a friend of mine and a friend of many others in Jackson, found out recently she had a serious heart problem.

Sarah Poole Anderson

11/20/2008

Sarah Poole Anderson, a native of Itta Bena, Miss. and a resident of Jackson, died Nov. 16, 2008 at her residence. She was 82 years of age. She was a homemaker and a member of Union Baptist Church. Survivors include four sons, Louie (Barbara) Poole Jr. of Gautier, Miss., Jerry (Frances) Poole of Lucedale, Miss., Leonard (Vickie) Poole of Crowe, N.C. and Robert E.

Benjamin Watson Dunn

11/20/2008

Benjamin Watson Dunn, 87, a native of Marengo County and longtime resident and businessman in Grove Hill, died Monday, Nov. 17, 2008. He was a World War II veteran having served in the South Pacific. A 37-year employee with Alabama Power Company, retiring in 1987, he was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

Eddie Ray Hart Sr.

11/20/2008

Eddie Ray Hart Sr., 75, died Nov. 12, 2008 in a Mobile hospital. A native of Carlton and resident of Grove Hill, he was an independent truck driver and a member of Tompkins Baptist Church in Grove Hill. Survivors include his wife, Virginia Hart of Grove Hill; two sons, Eddie Ray (Lisa) Hart Jr. of Wilmer and Gregory L. (Patsy) Hart of Murfreesboro, Tenn.

Matilda Mixon Abston

11/20/2008

Matilda Mixon Abston, 99, of St. Stephens, died Nov. 14, 2008 at Mobile Infirmary. She was mother of the James Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in St. Stephens. Her parents, Easter and Columbus Mixon and son, Henry Tarver preceded her in death.

Sophie Mae Ervin

11/20/2008

Sophie Mae Ervin, a resident of Leroy, died at the age of 90 on Nov. 17, 2008 at the Washington County Nursing Home in Chatom. She was a member of Good Stoney A.M.E. Zion Church of Leroy, where she was mother of the church, class leader, usher and stewardess. Her son, Joseph Ervin, preceded her in death.

Eugene Reed Sr.

11/20/2008

Eugene Reed Sr. of Wagarville, died at the Washington County Infirmary Hospital Nov. 17, 2008 at the age of 74. He was a retiree of Olin Chemical Plant in McIntosh and a member of the Lewis Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Wagarville.

Margaret Morrissette Walker

11/20/2008

Margaret Morrissette Walker, 68, a Grove Hill resident, died Nov. 16, 2008 at Mobile Infirmary. She was a member of Orange Hill Missionary Baptist Church of Grove Hill, where she was a former member of the senior choir. Her parents, Blanche and Charlie Morissette, daughter Jacqueline Young and son James Walker Jr., preceded her in death.

Dennis Murray Lasseter

11/20/2008

Dennis Murray "Sawdust" Lasseter, age 80, a native of Gadsden, died Nov. 17, 2008 at his home in Laurel Hill, Fla. After graduating from Gadsden High School, he attended college and played football at Western Tennessee.

James S. Creer

11/20/2008

James S. Creer, 64, of Walker Springs died Nov. 7, 2008 in Mobile. He was a retired carpenter. Funeral services were Nov. 15 at Good Hope Baptist Church in Walker Springs with the Rev. Clayton Davis officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery under the direction of Reese Funeral Home in Thomasville.

Mitchum memorial service announced

11/20/2008

A memorial service for the late Betty Jo Roberts Mitchum who died Oct. 17, 2008 has been announced for Sunday, Nov. 30 at 2:30 p.m. The service will be conducted at Witch Creek Baptist Church in Campbell. Memorial donations may be made to the Witch Creek Baptist Church, c/o Frank Daniels, 8316 Smyer Rd., Campbell, AL 36727, or to a favorite charity.

Clarke County Sheriff's Report

11/20/2008

Arrests booked through the Clarke County Jail during the week of Nov. 10-18 include: •Percy L. House, 59, driving under the influence (alcohol), speeding, unlawful possession of alcohol, $1,750 bond, arrested by Coffeeville Police Dept.

Gator caught in Jackson

11/20/2008

Jackson Animal Control officer Lee Hutto (front) responded to a call, last week, on Warren Street, concerning an alligator that was spotted in a ditch beside the railroad tracks. With the help of Jackson Police Detective Richard Harvey and Officer Brian Clarke he was able to capture the 6 foot reptile. The animal was relocated to a private pond at the owner of the pond's request. Also shown is Bob Bowling who observed the gator's capture. (Photo submitted)

Clarke County brings home multiple state PALS awards

11/20/2008

The Clarke County Citizens Against Litter committee brought home several state awards Wednesday, Nov. 12, from the annual People Against a Littered State (PALS) awards program conducted at Troy University Montgomery. Top, left, committee co-chair Rita Wilson (left) is presented the Adopt-A-Mile Award by Alabama Department of Transportation representative John Lorentson. Center, left, Evan Carden, editor of The South Alabamian is presented the Media Award by PALS Chairman Dr. Donald Hines. Bottom, left, Wendy Padgett accepts the Special Award on behalf of Grove Hill Chamber of Commerce Director Cheryl Horton. Bottom, right, Clarke County Sheriff Bobby Moore was presented the Law Enforcement Award. Very bottom, (L-R) Carden, Wilson, Moore and Padgett accept the County Award from Dr. Hines. Committee Co-chair Patricia DuBose was named to the PALS state board of directors.

WashCo BOE looks to replace member

By Ellen Williams SA Reporter — 11/20/2008

At the Nov. 18 meeting, the Washington County Board of Education announced they will be taking applications to replace the School Board District 3 member Kesler Weaver, who was recently elected to the county commission. Applications may be picked up at the central office and must be returned by De. 9. The decision will be announced at the Dec. 16 meeting.

Annual food drive

11/20/2008

HealthActions recently conducted its annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, with all the Jackson public schools and HealthActions members participating. Head of the project Betty Beard said approximately 6,000 items were collected. Unloading items at the Catholic Social Services food pantry, Monday, (kneeling, L-R) were Brad Weaver, Josh Daryl; (center, L-R)) Betty Beard, Cheryl Smith, Alaine Hutchinson; (back, L-R) Victor Tipper and Tyler Baxter. Below, Jackson Middle School raised the most, collecting 2,601 items. The school's library will receive a cash donation from HealthActions. (SA photo by Evan Carden)

Youth Leadership Washington graduates

11/20/2008

Leadership Washington sponsored a banquet for the Youth Leadership Washington at the Chatom Community Center on Nov. 13. This is the first Youth Leadership Washington Class. Graduating the program (L-R) were Shenqualia Johnson (Fruitdale), Chelsea Davidson (Fruitdale), Farrah Deese (WCHS), Amber Dearmon (Leroy), Terry Huff II (McIntosh), Coleman Beech (WCHS), Ethan Jordan (WCHS), Luke Wheeler (Millry), Brooke Roland (Leroy), Samantha Middleton (Leroy)Cortney Taylor (Fruitdale) and Faith Whigham (Millry). (SA photo by Ellen Williams)

LEGAL NOTICE

11/20/2008

In the Matter of the Estate of Tollie McCloskey, Deceased In the Probate Court of Clarke County, Alabama NOTICE TO FILE CLAIMS Letters Testamentary of said decedent having been granted to the undersigned on the