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  • Today is a dark day for OG’s.

    Today is a dark day for OG’s.

    Today is a dark day for OG’s.

    We are heartbroken as we mourn the tragic loss of one of our own. Seth was truly one of the most amazing humans we’ve ever known. He had a quick smile, a bounce in his step, and a spirit that made every room brighter.

    At OG’s, we are more than coworkers — we are family, and we loved Seth like one of our own. The emptiness and sadness we feel right now are indescribable. There are simply no words.

    Please keep Seth’s family, friends, and all of us at OG’s in your thoughts. Say a prayer, send some love, or share a moment of peace for him today as we try to navigate a world that suddenly feels a lot heavier without him.

    🤍 Rest in peace, Seth. You are missed beyond measure.
    #Sethry

  • In Loving Memory of Sontaya May

    In Loving Memory of Sontaya May

    In Loving Memory of Sontaya May

    My heart is heavy with the tragic loss of my dear friend, Sontaya May. Her inner beauty was just as radiant as her outer beauty. Sontaya was kind, generous, and always willing to help anyone in need — a true light in the lives of everyone she touched.

    I’m heartbroken for her two beautiful daughters, her entire family, and the many friends who loved her dearly.

    I’m sharing this with our Lamonts family and others who may not have heard the heartbreaking news of her passing. Please take a moment to read her daughter’s post below and keep them all in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.

    Rest in peace, Sontaya. You were deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. 🕊️

  • Incident Summary

    Incident Summary

    Incident Summary

    • The shooting occurred on Sunday, August 31 — late at night — at a home on the 1400 block of Ford Avenue in Tarrant during a Labor Day gathering, approximately around 10 p.m.https://www.wbrc.com

    • Witnesses allege the violence was triggered by a dispute between two women over a vehicle earlier that day. The police had been called around 4 p.m. due to a shot being fired, but no one was injured and the suspect had fled the scene.https://www.wbrc.com

    • Hours later, someone returned with a semi-automatic firearm and fired into the home, tragically striking 35‑year‑old Kristy “ItsJuicy” Harrison, who was not involved in the earlier dispute. She was at the gathering that evening and was completely innocent of any altercation.https://www.wbrc.com

    • As of now, no arrests have been made, and law enforcement continues the investigation.https://www.wbrc.com


    Key Facts at a Glance

    Detail Information
    Date & Time Sunday night, August 31 (Labor Day weekend), around 10 p.m.
    Location 1400 block of Ford Avenue, Tarrant, Alabama
    Trigger Earlier vehicle dispute between two women
    Victim Kristy “ItsJuicy” Harrison, 35, unrelated to the dispute
    Weapon Semi-automatic firearm fired into the home
    Current Status No arrests made; ongoing investigation

    Context & Significance

    This tragedy underscores the unpredictability and severity of firearm violence. Even when individuals are tangential or unconnected to a conflict, as Kristy tragically was, lives can be irrevocably changed.

  • Statement on the Tragic Conditions and Loss of Life at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center

    Statement on the Tragic Conditions and Loss of Life at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center

    Statement on the Tragic Conditions and Loss of Life at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center

    The recent tragedy involving the young man from Hartsville — whose father and grandmother still reside in the area — underscores a dire and unacceptable reality in Tennessee’s prison system. On Thursday the 26th, the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) hosted a panel to hear from the community. What we shared — and what we’ve witnessed — is deeply troubling.

    The deaths of inmates and staff members alike at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center are more than statistics; they are human lives, families torn apart, and futures erased. It is terrifying that a parent can leave home for work in a prison facility and never return — just as it is horrific for families to receive calls days or even weeks after the death of a loved one behind bars.

    The system has failed. It prioritizes punishment over rehabilitation, confinement over care, and profit over people. The justice system should exist to restore — not destroy. Not everyone in prison belongs there. And no one — not even the guilty — deserves to die from systemic neglect.

    I knew Joshua, one of the lives lost. He was a kind-hearted soul, a cook and chef’s assistant at a downtown Nashville restaurant. His grandmother, married to my cousin, helped raise him. He did not deserve this fate. The conditions at Trousdale are inhumane — conditions so cruel you wouldn’t wish them on an animal, let alone a person.

    The tragic loss of Mr. Leeper’s son must be a turning point. As citizens, we must stand behind Tim Leeper in his pursuit of justice for the lives lost. His courage and compassion remind us of the urgent need to overhaul a corrupt system.

    To the leadership of this state: We are watching. We are grieving. And we are demanding change.

    Thank you, Tim Leeper, for your tireless advocacy. Your voice speaks for those who no longer can.

  • Amid the violence, President Trump renewed his call to deploy federal agents and possibly National Guard troops to Chicago.

    Amid the violence, President Trump renewed his call to deploy federal agents and possibly National Guard troops to Chicago.

    • Amid the violence, President Trump renewed his call to deploy federal agents and possibly National Guard troops to Chicago. This proposal has met strong opposition from local and state leadership.ABC NewsNew York PostAxios

    • Mayor Brandon Johnson responded decisively, signing an executive order that explicitly prohibits Chicago police from cooperating with any federal troops or agents deployed under such a plan. He warned that the deployment would be “uncoordinated, uncalled for, and unsound,” and committed to legal challenges if the federal government proceeds without local consent.ReutersAOLNew York PostAxios

    • Governor J.B. Pritzker echoed this stance, asserting that troops cannot be sent to Chicago without the state’s approval. He labeled Trump’s threat as unconstitutional, unnecessary, and potentially “un-American,” and pledged immediate legal resistance.New York PostAxiosCBS News


    Summary

    • Violence: At least 54 individuals shot, 7 killed across various neighborhoods over Labor Day weekend.

    • Federal Threat: President Trump proposed federal deployment in response.

    • City Response: Mayor Johnson banned cooperation with federal forces and stands ready to sue.

    • State Response: Governor Pritzker also opposes and will legally challenge any unauthorized deployment.

  • That’s a deeply disturbing and tragic situation. If a child rang a doorbell and ran away—commonly known as a prank like “ding-dong ditch”—and was then shot, it raises serious concerns about the use of force, judgment, and the legal consequences for the shooter.

    That’s a deeply disturbing and tragic situation. If a child rang a doorbell and ran away—commonly known as a prank like “ding-dong ditch”—and was then shot, it raises serious concerns about the use of force, judgment, and the legal consequences for the shooter.

    That’s a deeply disturbing and tragic situation. If a child rang a doorbell and ran away—commonly known as a prank like “ding-dong ditch”—and was then shot, it raises serious concerns about the use of force, judgment, and the legal consequences for the shooter.

    Key points to consider in such a case:

    1. Excessive Force: Shooting someone, especially a child, for a non-violent prank is likely to be seen as a gross overreaction and potentially criminal.

    2. Legal Implications: Depending on the jurisdiction, the shooter could face charges ranging from aggravated assault to attempted murder or even murder if the child died.

    3. Self-Defense Laws: While some states have “Stand Your Ground” or “Castle Doctrine” laws, those typically don’t justify shooting someone who poses no immediate threat—especially someone fleeing.

    4. Community Impact: Incidents like this often spark outrage, especially if there are underlying issues of race, fear, or gun culture involved.

  • In Loving Memory of Karl Walz

    In Loving Memory of Karl Walz

    In Loving Memory of Karl Walz

    With deep sadness, we honor the life of Karl Allen Walz, who passed away peacefully on August 29, 2025, at the age of 67 in his hometown of Alpena, Michigan Legacy.comechovita.com.

    A devoted husband, Karl married Kim on January 3, 1998, and together they built a life grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering faith Legacy.com. He was a beloved father to Steven Walz, Amanda (Bory) Seigle, Jeremy (Sara) Glomski, Leigh Ann (Jake) Watts, and lovingly remembered Kaitlyn Jarose, and a proud grandfather to a large circle of grandchildren, including Keturah, Landon, Onica, Olivia, Cooper, Briar, Charlotte, Ayla, Caleb, Lilly, Kearah, Bayleigh, Maddox, Brice, and Holden, plus niece Kylie Brookshear and great-niece Aurora Legacy.com.

    Karl’s early life in Alpena was shaped by strong family bonds. He was the cherished son of Gloria (Fred) Spain and the late Allen (Jane) Walz, and close brother to Jason Spencer (Colleen), Vicki Brookshear (AJ), and Susan Hamrahi. He and his father shared a special bond through their hobby of taxidermy Legacy.com.

    Professionally, Karl was a respected sales engineer at R. A. Townsend Company, where he brought intelligence, dedication, and warmth to his work—a reputation echoed in your tribute Legacy.com. His character shone beyond the office; he was an outdoorsman at heart—loving hunting, fishing, and storytelling—with a constant companion of coffee and good conversation Legacy.com.


    Funeral Details

    You are invited to a visitation on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at McWilliams Funeral Home, located at 504 W. Washington Ave., Alpena, MI 49707. Following visitation, a memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. the same evening echovita.comLegacy.com.

    In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations made in Karl’s memory to:

  • Caelan passed away in a tragic accident on Wednesday, August 27, 2025

    Caelan passed away in a tragic accident on Wednesday, August 27, 2025

    • Caelan passed away in a tragic accident on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. GoFundMe

    • He is remembered as a devoted son, brother, worshipper, leader, and friend—whose faith and compassion touched many lives. GoFundMe

    • The fund was created so that his family can grieve without the added financial stress. While no amount can ease the pain, every contribution helps honor his memory. GoFundMe


    Ways You Can Offer Support

    • Donate to the GoFundMe: It’s a beautiful way to help ease the burden on Caelan’s family during their time of grief.

    • Contribute directly: You mentioned being open to direct contributions—please let me know if you’d like assistance coordinating that safely.

    • Share memories: The GoFundMe page invites friends and community members to leave memories or messages—sharing your stories of Caelan can bring comfort to his loved ones.

    • Offer emotional support: Your words, prayers, and presence are deeply meaningful right now.

  • Incident Summary

    Incident Summary

    Incident Summary


    What’s Still Unknown


    Safety Context & Response Advice

    This crash highlights how quickly boating accidents can happen—and how serious their consequences may be, even near docks. Safety officials regularly emphasize the importance of:


    Summary Table

    Aspect Details
    Date & Time Sunday around 7 p.m.
    Location Eagle Mountain Lake, west side near Miller Avenue
    Victims One adult (hospitalized), two children (hospitalized)
    Hospitals Harris Methodist (adult); Cook Children’s Medical Center (children)
    Cause & Severity Under investigation; injury extents unknown
    Safety Concerns Emphasizes need for life jackets, caution near docks, safe operation
  • What Happened

    What Happened

    What Happened

    • On Saturday, August 30, 2025, a fatal crash occurred at Indian Mountain ATV Park in Piedmont, Alabama, involving two off-road side-by-side vehicles (RZRs). One carried nine family members—Marcus Ragland (34), Ashley Hawkins (31), and seven children aged between 1 and 12 years old. The other ATV had two occupants who were uninjured.People.com+1AP News

    • The overloaded ATV, reportedly traveling at high speed, collided with the other vehicle, traveled around 150 feet, overturned, and struck a tree.New York PostAP NewsPeople.com


    Victims

    • Marcus Ragland was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Ashley Hawkins was airlifted to a hospital but succumbed to her injuries.People.com+1AP News

    • Seven children—siblings—were injured:

      • Ages ranged from 1 to 12.

      • Several were airlifted to trauma centers in Birmingham; others were transported to a hospital in Rome, Georgia.AP NewsPeople.com

      • Reportedly severe injuries included a skull fracture, broken collarbone, and spleen trauma.New York Posthttps://www.wsaw.com


    Underlying Concerns


    Voices of Grief

    • Ragland’s mother, Felecia Towers, shared her deep sorrow:

      “This is just so hard to deal with. It’s just so hard.”People.comhttps://www.wsaw.com

    • A close friend, Maya Boyett, reflected on the couple’s character:

      “They are both two good people, good to their kids, and I really hate that they’re gone now.”People.comhttps://www.wsaw.com


    Summary Table

    Category Details
    Date Saturday, August 30, 2025
    Location Indian Mountain ATV Park, Piedmont, Alabama
    Victims Parents killed: Marcus Ragland and Ashley Hawkins; 7 children injured
    Injuries Ranged from minor to severe: skull fracture, broken collarbone, spleen trauma
    Safety Issues No restraints used; overcrowded UTV
    Response Challenges Remote location delayed emergency access
    Ongoing Message Reinforces importance of safe UTV practices

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