Gadsden Regional Medical Center Performs First Robotic Thoracic Surgery
Gadsden, AL (December 22, 2025)— Gadsden Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has reached a significant milestone in surgical services with the completion of its first robotic thoracic surgery, performed by cardiothoracic surgeon Lucman Anwer, MD, FACS, with Gadsden Physician Clinics’ Cardiothoracic Surgical Associates. Robotic thoracic surgery enables complex procedures within the chest to be performed through smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgery. Using a robotic platform, the surgeon operates
Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation receives $10,000 grant
Gadsden, Ala. – The Gadsden State Cardinal Foundation received a $10,000 grant from the Tillotson-Menlo Charitable Foundation. The award will be used to expand training for the nursing program on our Cherokee Campus. “This generous grant will make an immediate and meaningful impact on our nursing students,” said Dr. Joey Battles, dean of Health Sciences. “Enhancing our training resources on the Cherokee Campus ensures that our students have access to the tools and experiences they need to succeed in
Registered Nursing graduates recognized at pinning ceremony
The Gadsden State Community College Skills Training Division recognized students earning their certification as medication assistants, and advanced nursing assistants with phlebotomy during a pinning ceremony held on December 16 in the Advanced Manufacturing Center on the East Broad Campus.The 11-week Advanced Nursing Assistant Program is designed to meet the growing needs of the community’s healthcare system. It prepares students to perform routine nursing-related services, including phlebotomy, to
Gadsden State Health Sciences Division holds 2025 pinning ceremony for LPNs
Centre, Ala. – The Gadsden State Community College Health Sciences Division recognized students earning their certificate in Licensed Practical Nursing during a Dec. 15 pinning ceremony. The Fall Semester 2025 graduates are:Anniston - Imani Afford, Cartrica Foster, Felix Waldrop, Selena WhitmanAshville – Alexis DailyAttalla – Madison KelleyBoaz – Breanna JacobsCentre – Hannah HarperCropwell – Marissa RittenGadsden – Tyler Mostiller, Taylor WittHeflin – Riona Jordan, Casey LailLeesburg – Anna SmithLincoln –
Gadsden State Skills Training Division holds pinning ceremony for program completers
The Gadsden State Community College Skills Training Division recognized students earning their certification as medication assistants, and advanced nursing assistants with phlebotomy during a pinning ceremony held on December 16 in the Advanced Manufacturing Center on the East Broad Campus.The 11-week Advanced Nursing Assistant Program is designed to meet the growing needs of the community’s healthcare system. It prepares students to perform routine nursing-related services, including phlebotomy, to
Gadsden State wins state award for clean-up project for third year
Gadsden, Ala. – Gadsden State Community College was recognized by Coca-Cola UNITED during the annual Alabama PALS Governor’s Awards Ceremony. The College was recognized on November 12 at the Wynlakes Golf & Country Club in Montgomery for its Don’t Drop It on Alabama project. This is the third year in a row that Gadsden State has been recognized with this statewide award. “The collective effort to remove litter from our surrounding communities reflects our commitment to stewardship, responsibility, and
Gadsden Regional Medical Center Donates Emergency Response Backpacks to Etowah County Schools
Gadsden, AL (December 15, 2025) — Gadsden Regional Medical Center (GRMC) announced its donation of emergency response backpacks to Etowah County School nurses during the December 2025 Etowah County Board of Education meeting. The initiative supports school nurses who routinely serve as first responders when medical incidents occur on campus. The emergency backpacks were identified by school nurses as a high-priority need to help them better assist students during urgent situations. “We are honored to
Griffey appointed dean of academic programs and services
Gadsden State Community College has appointed Dr. Derrick Griffey as the new dean of Academic Programs and Services effective January 2.As the dean of Academic Programs and Services, Dr. Griffey will provide leadership for the College’s largest instructional division, which includes the academic departments of Science, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Languages and Humanities, Fine Arts, and Business, Legal Studies and Computer Sciences. He will also oversee key academic support units such as the Teaching and
Heart Attack Deaths are Down, But Heart Disease Remains the Nation’s Leading Cause of Death
Gadsden, AL (December 8, 2025)– Deaths from heart attack have dropped by nearly 90 percent over the past 50 years, but deaths by other heart conditions have increased over the same period. The heart attack survival rate has improved thanks to advances in treatment and intervention, but rising cases of atrial fibrillation and arrhythmias, heart failure, and hypertensive heart disease are now the leading causes of death among heart conditions. Likely contributing to these increases, more people in the U.S.
Etowah County Leaders in Industry Meet for Workforce Summit
Gadsden, AL – The Etowah Chamber recently hosted The Etowah Update: Workforce Development Summit, presented by Gadsden State Community College, at the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Center. The event brought together educators, industry leaders, and workforce experts for a panel discussion on career opportunities and workforce development in Etowah County and the surrounding region. Gadsden State President Alan Smith opened the summit by emphasizing the college’s commitment to preparing students for
Two Students Awarded Scholarships at Victory 500
Victory Cheer & Tumble proudly awarded two local high school students with scholarships during its annual Victory 500 Cheer Competition, held on October 5, 2025, at the Gadsden State Arena. Congratulations to the 2025 Scholarship Winners: Amari Ward, Oxford High SchoolAddison Friedberg, Southside High School Each student was awarded a $500 scholarship in recognition of their outstanding applications, highlighting their dedication to academics, leadership, and community involvement. The Victory 500 is
The Salvation Army of Gadsden Opens First Family Unit at Local Shelter
The Salvation Army of Gadsden recently commemorated the opening of its first Family Unit at the shelter, a milestone addition that will provide local families in need with a safe and dignified place to stay. The ribbon cutting ceremony welcomed Lieutenant Fisher, the newly appointed director, along with Miss Oxford Volunteer, Kaitlyn Funk, who joined in celebrating this important step forward for the community. The creation of the Family Unit was made possible through a collaborative effort of community
Etowah Chamber Announces Finalists for 2025 Small Business of the Year Awards
The Etowah Chamber is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Etowah Small Business of the Year Awards, a program that honors outstanding local businesses and organizations making a lasting impact on our community. Finalists were nominated and reviewed based on criteria including business growth, community involvement, customer service, and innovation. Winners will be announced at the Etowah Small Business of the Year Awards Luncheon, where each finalist will be recognized with a bronze, silver, or
Leadership Begins with Awareness - Announcing Professional Leadership Academy 2026 (PLA)
*By Richard E. Mobley, Guest Columnist, PLA Facilitator – The Seven Four Group | Be Far More! Over the years, I've coached hundreds of professionals who’ve all asked some version of the same question: How can I become the kind of leader others want to follow?The answer begins with one principle: awareness. Before you can lead others, you must first understand yourself—your values, your habits, your blind spots, and your strengths. That’s the foundation of meaningful leadership. It’s also why I’m honored
Women's Health Physicians & Surgeons Celebrates Grand Opening
Gadsden, AL – The Etowah Chamber was excited to welcome Gadsden Women’s Health Physicians & Surgeons to the community with a ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration. The clinic, which also has a location in Anniston, opened in Gadsden to better serve patients who travel for specialized women’s healthcare. Led by Dr. Ricky Patel, a board-certified OBGYN trained in both general OBGYN and Advanced Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery, the practice offers high-quality care for women of all ages. Dr.
Gadsden to Unveil New Popeye Sign
Gadsden, AL – The Etowah Chamber is excited to join Coosa Riverkeeper and the community for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and marker installation honoring Tom Sims, the comic artist who continued the legacy of Popeye the Sailor Man. The event will take place on October 15 at 12:00 p.m. at Jack L. Ray Park in Gadsden, located near the boat ramp and dock. Tom Sims took over creating and writing Popeye stories following the death of the original creator in 1938. According to historian Beverly Crider, author of
Indoor Playground in Glencoe is SO much fun!
GLENCOE, AL. – Etowah Chamber is thrilled to welcome The Confetti Collective to Glencoe with a celebratory ribbon cutting! This new indoor playground offers a fun and safe space for children ages eight and under to play, explore, and celebrate. Owned by Skyler Evans, who also operates Balloons by Sky, The Confetti Collective provides a colorful and interactive environment designed to spark imagination and active play. Young visitors can run through a pit of confetti shapes, climb ramps, navigate slides,
Gadsden hosts largest event for women in Northeast Alabama
GADSDEN, AL – September 25, 2025 – The Etowah Chamber proudly hosted the 10th anniversary of Advancing Women to the Top: A Perfect 10 at The Venue at Coosa Landing, bringing together more than 350 professional women from across Northeast Alabama and beyond for a day of leadership, connection, and inspiration. This milestone event, one of the largest gatherings for women in the region, shined a spotlight on Etowah County as a hub for professional growth and community leadership. Attendees enjoyed
Beautiful Renovations and Rebrand for Thomson Health Insurance Advisors
GADSDEN, AL – The Etowah Chamber proudly joined Thomson Health Insurance Advisors (THIA) for a ribbon cutting and open house celebrating their newly renovated office and refreshed brand at 601 South 5th Street inside The Professional Workplace on Fifth. The event marked a major milestone for THIA, a family-focused business led by Lacy and Marcus Thomson, who have guided hundreds of clients through the Medicare process with care and expertise. While the team now welcomes guests into a beautifully updated
Candie Factory Opens in Downtown Gadsden!
GADSDEN, AL. – The Etowah Chamber was delighted to host the ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration for The Candie Factory Bakery & Brew House, owned by Ceandra James, at 546 Broad Street, Suite A in Downtown Gadsden. The celebration was extra special as it coincided with Ceandra’s 45th birthday, making the event a true milestone for both the business and its owner. Founded in 2009, The Candie Factory is a family-owned specialty shop offering fresh-baked gourmet cookies, pastries, and sweet treats
Riverview Celebrates Opening of Riverview Pulmonology Associates
Gadsden, AL – The Etowah Chamber was excited to join Riverview Regional Medical Center and the local community in celebrating the grand opening of Riverview Pulmonology Associates. The practice, led by Dr. Sikander Zulqarnain, provides specialized care for conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. Pulmonology focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases that impact breathing, including chronic conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and sleep apnea,
This Attalla Business hosted Customer Appreciation Day
Attalla, AL – The Etowah Chamber was thrilled to join Giles & Bobo Insurance Group – Alfa Insurance for a ribbon cutting and Customer Appreciation Day in Attalla. Agent-owners Sy Giles and Hollie Bobo welcomed the community to celebrate their new office and share their commitment to providing personalized insurance solutions. The team at Giles & Bobo Insurance Group offers coverage for home, auto, health, and life, helping individuals and families protect what matters most. Guests enjoyed a festive
The Most Perfect New Home Store in Rainbow City
RAINBOW CITY, AL – The Etowah Chamber was proud to welcome Gracevines, a brand-new retail destination, to Rainbow City with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Owned and curated by Leann, Gracevines officially launched in September 2025 and offers a thoughtfully handpicked collection of items to style and refresh any space. Shoppers will find an array of floral arrangements, garden accents, gifts, and home décor—all chosen to help customers create beautiful, inviting environments. “Gracevines was created to be
New innovation at Alabama Cancer Care is a first for the State
GADSDEN, Ala. – Etowah Chamber is proud to recognize Alabama Cancer Care of Gadsden for expanding its services beyond oncology and hematology to include state-of-the-art Alzheimer’s care and support. This innovative approach positions Gadsden as the first location in Alabama to offer early, highly accurate Alzheimer’s detection with advanced imaging technology. Alabama Cancer Care of Gadsden is now using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans with Vizamyl, an FDA-approved radiopharmaceutical that binds
Leaders weigh in on the State of Healthcare in Etowah
GADSDEN, AL - The Etowah Chamber hosted its first-ever Etowah Update: Healthcare Summit at Gadsden State Community College on August 20th, 2025 bringing together leaders in healthcare, higher education, and workforce development to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of local care. Chamber President & CEO Philip Hall opened the program by thanking sponsors and highlighting the Chamber’s role in convening leaders around critical issues. Gadsden State President Alan Smith welcomed
The Chill Spot of Attalla Celebrates BIG for One Year
ATTALLA, AL - Etowah Chamber, along with the City of Attalla, recently joined The Chill Spot to celebrate its one-year anniversary with a ribbon cutting and community event. Since opening in 2023, The Chill Spot has quickly become a local favorite for sweet treats, offering ice cream, shaved ice, brownie sundaes, banana splits, milkshakes, and more. In addition to its shop on 5th Avenue, The Chill Spot also operates a mobile snow cone truck, serving events throughout the community. At the celebration,
New Therapists in Downtown Gadsden
GADSDEN, AL - The Etowah Chamber proudly welcomed Buckner Morgan Therapy with a ribbon cutting ceremony at their new location in downtown Gadsden. Buckner Morgan Therapy is a women-owned psychotherapy practice serving both children and adults through a wide range of mental health services. Licensed therapists Bree Buckner, LPC and T. Michelle Morgan, LICSW, MSW bring more than 15 years of combined experience, offering individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Their specialized services include
LilyPad Represents State of Alabama at Mid America floral Cup Competition
GADSDEN, Ala. — Shannon Rollins, owner of The Lily Pad Florist in Gadsden, has been selected to represent the State of Alabama at the upcoming Mid America Cup floral competition in Arkansas, one of the industry’s most prestigious events. Rollins has been crafting floral arrangements for more than 20 years, building a reputation for artistry that doesn’t just fill a room, but transforms it. Since opening The Lily Pad Florist in 2014, she has been named “Best Florist” year after year and has become a
MDA Professionals Group turns 50
The Etowah Chamber joined MDA Professional Group, P.C. to celebrate an incredible milestone, 50 years in business. The firm marked the occasion with a ribbon cutting at their Gadsden office, located at 125 N 3rd Street. Founded in 1975, MDA Professional Group opened its Gadsden branch in 1996 and has since expanded with locations across Alabama. The firm is known for its conservative and people-focused approach, delivering exceptional accounting services to individuals, families, and businesses. MDA
City of Gadsden Unveils Phase 4 Expansion of Gadsden Sports Park and Teases New Additions
The City of Gadsden marked another milestone in its commitment to recreation and community growth with the unveiling of Phase 4 of the Gadsden Sports Park. Local leaders, city officials, and members of the construction and parks teams gathered to celebrate the newest additions to the facility. This exciting new phase includes two brand-new turf baseball fields, new soccer practice fields, a modern concession stand, a tournament office, and expanded pickleball courts. The improvements are designed to
Smokeneck Farm and Garden celebrates 4th anniversary
SOUTHSIDE, AL — Smokeneck Farm & Garden/General Store marked its fourth anniversary on Saturday, July 19, with a celebration featuring food trucks, local small businesses, and plenty of the laid-back, friendly atmosphere the store is known for. Opened in July 2021 by George and Patsy Illif, Smokeneck Farm & Garden set out to be more than just another store. From day one, the goal was to create a place where customers feel like family. “When Patsy and I decided to open Smokeneck Farm & Garden, we wanted
Rodney Austin of Gadsden Warehousing honored for 50 years of service
GADSDEN, AL — Gadsden Warehousing Inc., a trusted name in warehousing, logistics, and distribution services, is celebrating an impressive milestone: 50 years in business. Owner Rodney Austin was recently honored with a surprise celebration at the historic Pitman Theatre in downtown Gadsden. Hosted by his family, the event recognized his decades of leadership, the company’s contributions to the region, and the strong relationships built with customers and community partners over the years. Founded in
All-American HVAC Named 2025 Best of Alabama Business
Rainbow City, AL – The Etowah Chamber is excited to celebrate All American HVAC Services, which has been officially named a 2025 Best of Alabama business by The Guide to Alabama. This well-earned title recognizes their outstanding service and the trust they’ve built with customers throughout Etowah County and beyond. Based in Rainbow City, All American HVAC Services is a locally owned, veteran-operated company that has made a name for itself by offering honest, reliable HVAC and refrigeration work. With
Pine Crest Lodge is an Amazing NEW Hunter's Lodge
Attalla, AL – A big congratulations to Pine Crest Lodge, Etowah County’s newest outdoor destination, officially open and already making a name for itself among sportsmen and nature lovers. The lodge celebrated its grand opening with a 40-round sporting clay tournament and welcomed guests to take in the stunning views from its foothills perch on Lookout Mountain. Located just two miles off I-59 at the Noccalula Falls exit, Pine Crest Lodge is a true outdoorsman’s retreat. The property features sporting
New Indoor Soccer Facility in Gadsden NOW OPEN
Gadsden, AL – The Etowah Chamber recently joined the Linares and Cruz families in celebrating the grand opening of Ultimate Indoor Soccer & Food Truck, a brand new indoor soccer facility and authentic Mexican food truck combo located at 1206 Alabama Avenue in Gadsden. Created with the community in mind, Ultimate Indoor Soccer is designed for local players, teams, and soccer fans of all ages. The indoor field is available for hourly rental and is perfect for parties, training sessions, tournaments, and
All 2025 4th of July Events Happening in the Etowah & Gadsden Area
ETOWAH COUNTY, AL — Independence Day in Etowah County is shaping up to be one of the biggest and most exciting celebrations yet, with a packed lineup of events stretching from June 28 through July 5. From drone shows and downtown strolls to fireworks over the river, there's something for everyone to enjoy, so gather the family, mark your calendars, and get ready to celebrate America in style! &##127878; Saturday, June 28 | 5:00 PM Freedom Flight Drone Show | Rainbow City Mega SportsPlex, 625 Kinzie
Sweets and Sprouts celebrates first birthday!
Gadsden, AL – A big congratulations to Sweets and Sprouts, the charming little bakery tucked up on the mountain, as they celebrate their one-year anniversary. Since opening their doors, this cozy spot has quickly become a local favorite, thanks to owner Molly Sullivan’s incredible talent, welcoming spirit, and a serious love for baked goods. Located at 102 Eble Street, Suite B, Sweets and Sprouts is known for its from-scratch cinnamon rolls, homemade pop tarts, muffins, scones, cookies, and more. Every
This lovable gift boutique in Southside just opened!
Southside, AL – The City of Southside and the Etowah Chamber recently came together to officially welcome 1641 MarketPlace South to the community with a grand opening and ribbon cutting celebration. Owned by Donna Ramsey, this new local business brings a warm, Southern charm to Highway 77. Part gift shop, and part home boutique, 1641 MarketPlace South is filled with handpicked furniture, home décor, women’s clothing, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Shoppers will find unique, thoughtfully designed pieces that
Gadsden Regional Imaging Now Offering New Services
Rainbow City, AL – The Etowah Chamber recently helped celebrate the latest expansion of Gadsden Regional Imaging with a ribbon cutting at their facility, located at 3502 Rainbow Drive on the corner of US 411 and AL 77. This exciting addition includes the introduction of 3D mammography and bone densitometry services, further expanding their already robust diagnostic imaging offerings. In addition to these new services, Gadsden Regional Imaging continues to offer X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, lab services, and
Gadsden is Second Location in the State of Alabama for NEW “LibCabinet” Book Vending Machine
Gadsden, AL – A new chapter in community access to reading has officially begun. The Etowah Chamber was proud to join the Gadsden Public Library and city leaders for a ribbon cutting at the Carver Community Center to celebrate the installation of Alabama’s second-ever LibCabinet, an innovative book vending machine that brings the library directly into the neighborhood. Located at 1030 Tuscaloosa Avenue, the Carver Community Center is now home to one of two new LibCabinets in Gadsden. The second cabinet is
Moe’s Original BBQ Now Open in Downtown Gadsden
Moe’s Original BBQ Now Open in Downtown Gadsden Moe’s Original BBQ is officially open in Downtown Gadsden! You’ll find them at 208 S. 2nd Street, right inside the iconic Blue’s building. They kicked things off on Memorial Day, and the place is already bringing the heat with slow-smoked meats, hearty Southern sides, and a laid-back vibe that fits right in here. This new spot has all the favorites you’d expect from Moe’s, pulled pork, ribs, smoked wings, turkey, chicken, even catfish and shrimp, plus
