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Rusty Price Named FOP Member of the Year
By Savannah Logan
Rusty Price, a longstanding member of the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, received the honor of being named the Alabama State Fraternal Order of Police member of the year for 2023. Graduating from Bibb County High School in 1990, Rusty initiated his journey as a Reserve Deputy in 1994 before securing a full-time deputy position in 1997 after completing the University of Alabama Police Academy. He joined the Bibb County Sheriff Department in 1999 and has remained dedicated through different sheriffs’ tenures. Rising through the ranks, he became Lieutenant in 2016, eventually attaining the role of Captain in 2018, overseeing various departmental aspects. His active involvement in Cahaba Lodge #44, serving as Secretary/Treasurer since 2009, played a crucial role in the lodge’s growth. Rusty’s contributions extended to community programs like “Christmas with a Cop” and initiating the Halloween Trunk-or-Treat, fostering positive interactions between law enforcement and the community. FOP State Trustee Mike Nichols lauded Rusty’s commitment, recognizing his vital role in the lodge’s advancement and celebrating his exceptional dedication with the prestigious award. Congratulations again, Rusty, on this well-deserved recognition!
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Gregory Wallace and His Coonhound Nova Win the UKC Triple Crown 2022
By Savannah Logan
Gregory Wallace, hailing from Randolph, Alabama, celebrated an incredible achievement in the world of coonhound competitions as his canine companion, NITECH ‘PR’ Indian Creek Nova, clinched the esteemed United Kennel Club Triple Crown Champion title for 2022, marking Alabama’s sole dog to ever achieve this honor. Competing in multiple states, including Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, Tennessee, Arkansas, Indiana, and Ohio, Nova, a 4-year-old English Coonhound, displayed exceptional prowess, earning a position among the top 100 coon dogs globally. The Triple Crown Challenge, sponsored by the United Kennel Club, involved rigorous events like the Winter Classic, Autumn Oaks, and the World Championship, necessitating participation in all three for eligibility. Nova’s journey to victory was a tight race, with a remarkable tiebreaker determining her triumph, securing her an impressive lead in the final standings. Gregory Wallace, Nova’s proud owner, attributed their success to dedicated training and hunting, marking a special milestone following his past runner-up status in 2014. Nova’s outstanding achievement not only brought immense pride to Randolph, Alabama, but also the entire coonhound community, highlighting her exceptional talent and hard-earned recognition among the world’s top coon dogs.
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Soccer Returns to the Community: BMC Wellness Center Offers Youth Programs and Recreational Opportunities
By Savannah Logan
The BMC Wellness Center, led by Director Katie Crumpler, aimed to enhance community health through recreational activities, recognizing their positive impact on physical and mental well-being. Crumpler emphasized the correlation between feeling good and being productive in society, highlighting recreation’s role in stress relief and mood improvement. To achieve their mission, the center introduced diverse recreational activities, including co-ed leagues and organized sports like soccer and flag football, aiming to fill the void of soccer in the community. BMC Recreational Fields opened on May 13th, offering registration at $10, providing soccer balls and shirts for registered kids. Additionally, the center organized summer camps covering various activities like volleyball, softball, art, and swimming lessons to engage youth and promote an active lifestyle. With a focus on fostering inclusion and better health outcomes, the BMC Wellness Center encouraged participation in these activities, inviting community members to benefit from the joy of recreation during the summer.
