PEOPLEBRIEFS
GEARLD GARNER was named Pinellas (Fla)/Gateway Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Jan 5, 2008. He also received the Lifetime City Ambassador Award presented by the city council. Garner grew up in Holly Springs with his brothers James Garner of Oneonta and Ken Garner of Orlando, Fla. He graduated from Oneonta High School in 1960, then had a 20-year career with the U.S. Air Force before completing Culinary Arts School and beginning his career with the City of Pinellas Park, Fla. He and his wife Ann have a son Doug, a daughter Traci Lyn, son-in-law Dave, and grandson Carson. Now retired, Garner says he intends "to stay busy" and continues to help with many city events, including Relay for Life, fall festival, fishing derby, and the annual holiday parade. BLOUNT COUNT AIRMEN who have completed basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio,Texas, include Christopher W. Leopard, Dustin S. Hogeland, Joshua C. Powers, and Jonathon L. Sherwood.

During the six weeks of training, the airmen studied the Air Force mission, organization, core values, and military customs and courtesies; performed drill and ceremony marches; and received physical training, rifle marksmanship, field training exercises, and special training in human relation. In addition, airmen who complete basic training earn credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Christopher W. Leopard

Leopard is a 2008 graduate of Springville High School. His parents are Rod and Shelley Leopard of Springville.

Hogeland graduated from Cleveland High School in 2006. He is the grandson of Earnestine Chambers of Oneonta.

Powers earned distinction as an honor graduate of his basic training group. He graduated from Locust Fork High School in 2005 and is the son of Kathy Hollon and stepson of Danny Hollon of Trafford.

Sherwood is the grandson of Bonnie Wellman of Fultondale. He graduated from Mortimer Jordan High School in 2005.

Dustin S. Hogeland Joshua C. Powers Jonathon L. Sherwood