The Cullman Times named its Distinguished Citizen of the Year and six Unsung Heroes at an awards luncheon today.

Danny McAfee, who serves on the Foundation Board of Cullman Regional, was awarded Distinguished Citizen of the Year for his efforts to improve quality of life in the community.

Unsung Heroes were nominated by readers of The Times. The winners include Barbara Ragsdale, for community work through local churches to assist families in need; Carol Berry, for successful efforts to establish halfway houses for women rebuilding their lives after drugs and incarceration; Gail Crutchfield, for involvement in Relay for Life; Edward Warnke, for promoting farming and teaching young farmers; Cullman Police Lt. Danny Hite, for teaching children about self-defense and providing toys for children; and Tanya Shearer, for leading the Empty Bowls program to benefit Cullman Caring for Kids.

Look for The Times’ Profile section in the Thursday edition to read about each of those recognized as well as other stories about local people and communities.