Gadsden, Ala. – Gadsden State Community College and Drake State Community and Technical College are partnering to offer Entrepreneurship Fundamentals, a six-week non-credit course designed to give aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners the practical skills and tools needed to start, manage and grow a successful business.The course begins Sept. 15 and will meet from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.Entrepreneurship Fundamentals combines foundational entrepreneurship concepts with hands-on
Gadsden, Ala. — The Gadsden State Community College men’s and women’s cross country teams enter the 2026 season under third-year head coach Jackson Millander with a strong group of returning runners and talented newcomers ready to compete in the Alabama Community College Conference and on the national stage.The Cardinals return a large group of sophomores who gained valuable collegiate experience during the 2025 season.On the men’s side, Caleb Gay of Alexandria, Angel Martinez of Douglas, Ethan Patterson of
Gadsden, Ala. – A generous investment from Alabama Power Company is creating new opportunities for students at Gadsden State Community College’s Valley Street Campus through the establishment of the Alabama Power Company Endowed Career Technical and Workforce Development Scholarship.The scholarship will directly support students pursuing career technical and workforce development programs at Valley Street, the College’s historically Black campus. By providing financial assistance for hands-on training and
Businesses Need to Prepare Now The retirement of America's traditional copper telephone network is accelerating. Major carriers are now asking the FCC for permission to discontinue legacy telephone services across large portions of the country. Verizon has sought permission to discontinue copper service affecting millions of locations across 17 states, while AT&T is seeking authority not to restore legacy service in hundreds of areas where its network has suffered damage or vandalism. These aren't
Gadsden, AL – Fifty-nine Gadsden State Community College student-athletes have been named to the National Junior College Athletic Association All-Academic Teams for 2025-26. The All-Academic Teams recognize student-athletes across the country for their dedication in the classroom. In addition to recognizing individuals, the NJCAA also awards the Academic Team of the Year for each sport. To qualify as an academic team, student-athletes must have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA. Cardinal teams qualifying
Gadsden, AL — August 24, 2026 — While falls are a significant health concern that can affect anyone, regardless of age, they are most often perceived as an inevitable part of the aging process. Despite one out of every four people age 65 and older experiencing at least one fall each year, healthcare providers say these incidents are frequently preventable. “Falls can have serious life-changing consequences, including traumatic brain injuries, hip fractures, and a long-term loss of independence,” says Dr.
Gadsden, Ala. – Gadsden State Community College and the City of Gadsden celebrated another investment in the Gadsden Sports Park on Aug. 20 with a groundbreaking ceremony for a new ten-court tennis center. The new tennis center is the latest addition to the Sports Park, continuing a partnership between Gadsden State and the City of Gadsden to develop athletic facilities that serve both the College and the greater Gadsden community. “This project is another great example of what can happen when we work
Gadsden, Ala. – The Summer Semester 2026 President’s List at Gadsden State Community College was released by President Alan Smith. Full-time students who earn a semester grade point average of 4.0 and complete a minimum of 12 credit hours of college-level work are named to the President’s List. They are:Albertville – Gustavo Casillas, Ana Jimenez Montano, Eduardo Ramirez, Kenyan Smith, and PJ WattsAlexandria – Joseph Breunig, Katelyn Garrett, Blackston Owens, and Trace PerryAltoona – Hannah Cummings, Amanda
Gadsden, Ala. — The Gadsden State volleyball team enters the 2026 season with a strong group of returning players, new talent and high expectations for conference play.Head Coach Connie Clark, now in her second year leading the Cardinals, returns five sophomores and welcomes two sophomore transfers to a roster that will look to compete for an Alabama Community College Conference championship.“We are very excited to start the 2026 volleyball season,” Clark said. “We are entering our second year of coaching
Business Phone Contract Review: Cut Hidden Costs A business phone contract review is not paperwork for paperwork’s sake. It is the fastest way to find out whether your company is paying for lines nobody uses, features nobody understands, or terms that make a future change more expensive than it needs to be. For a small business, phone service can look like a fixed utility expense until the bill starts growing. A new location, a few remote employees, or an outdated office phone system can turn a simple
Gadsden, Ala. – Gadsden State Community College Baseball is excited to announce its 2026 Fall Instructional League, a five-week developmental program designed to help high school baseball players improve their skills through instruction from the Gadsden State coaching staff and Cardinal baseball players.The league will provide participants with a true college baseball development experience through skill instruction, position-specific training and live game situations in a structured, competitive
Gadsden, Ala. – The Gadsden State Community College Health Sciences Division recognized students earning their associate degree in Registered Nursing during a pinning ceremony held August 6 at Wallace Hall on the Wallace Drive Campus.Students receiving their pins include:Adairsville, Ga. – Margaret MooreAlexandria – Madison BrownAlpine – Mallory AllenAnniston – Kara Burke-Billingsley, Cheyenne Carroll, Cearia Jenkins, Riley Jones, and Cindy Lynn WallaceAshville – Maggie Fox-EggletonBoaz – Fatima
Gadsden Ala. - As Alan Smith completes his first year as president of Gadsden State Community College, his leadership has been defined by three priorities: people, partnerships and progress.Those priorities have shaped a year of expanding opportunities for students, strengthening relationships across northeast Alabama and advancing initiatives that reinforce Gadsden State's identity as "A College for the Community." At the center of it all has been a simple mission: “Help people.”"Everything we do comes
Business phone systems have changed dramatically over the years, and so have the requirements surrounding emergency calling. Two important federal measures—Kari’s Law and RAY BAUM’S Act—help ensure that people using modern multi-line phone systems can quickly reach 911 and that emergency responders receive useful information about where the caller is located. Kari’s Law generally requires applicable multi-line telephone systems to allow users to dial 911 directly, without first dialing a prefix such as
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEAlabama-Based Aligned Tek Ranked No. 33 Among the World's Top Managed Service Providers National recognition highlights North Alabama company's growth, innovation and commitment to helping businesses navigate today's technology challenges BIRMINGHAM, Ala., July 30, 2026 — Aligned Tek has been recognized as the No. 33 managed service provider in the world on the 2026 Channel Partners MSP 501, the technology industry's premier annual ranking of the world's top managed IT service
GADSDEN, Ala. — Residents of Gadsden and the surrounding area will soon have a new destination for affordable fashion, home goods, and everyday essentials as Burlington prepares to open its newest location on **September 4, 2026**, at **Coosa Town Center**, located at the former Bealls location. Known for offering great values on a wide selection of products, Burlington provides shoppers with savings on clothing, footwear, accessories, beauty products, home décor, pet supplies, baby items, and more. The
ALBERTVILLE, Ala. — BAP Agency, LLC announces its official recognition as a certified Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) through the U.S. Small Business Administration, effective June 23, 2026. The certification arrives one day before the agency's 10-year anniversary, a timing that the team considers fitting. "We have been working toward this for a while, and the fact that it came together in time for our anniversary celebration feels like the right kind of milestone to walk into our next chapter with,"
Gadsden, AL – One of country music’s biggest stars of the last several decades will be performing in Gadsden this Thursday, June 25, 2026, as Clint Black steps onto the Mountain Dew stage at the Amp as part of the WinSouth Credit Union Concert Series. “Clint Black is one of those household names in country music, and even casual country know his songs,” said Mayor Craig Ford. “We hosted a benefit concert with Riley Green and Friends in April, so we're happy to have had one of country music's newer stars
Gadsden, AL – This Independence Day, the City of Gadsden is holding Freedom Fest, a huge celebration with hot air balloon rides, glow balloons for photos, the biggest fireworks show in the Southeast, live music and more. “This year is a celebration of our country’s 250th anniversary, and we’re doing our part to recognize it in style,” said Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford. “This year, we’re bringing in hot air balloons along with all the great things people have come to expect from our Fourth of July events: live
The Etowah County business community gathered on May 20, 2026, for the Etowah Update: Workforce Development Summit hosted by the Etowah Chamber at Gadsden State Community College’s Advanced Manufacturing Center. Sponsored by Gadsden State Community College, the summit brought together community leaders, elected officials, educators, and industry professionals for a candid discussion on the future of workforce development in Etowah County and the growing demand for skilled workers in manufacturing and
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
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 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
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
*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
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, 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
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, 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
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
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
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,
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
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
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
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
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,
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
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
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
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
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
