Photo Of Child At Samantha Shepherd Statue Wins Statewide Contest

TUSCALOOSA, AL — Hartselle native Anna Stanley has been announced as the winner of the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association’s (ALBBAA) inaugural Road Trip Photo Contest.

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The winning photo, which was determined by online voting, features Stanley's 1-year-old daughter, Avery, with the Good Shepherd Statue in Samantha. She said the photo also honors her great-grandfather, Johnny Williamson.

Here's a look at the full photo:

The statue was crafted in 1999 by artist Willie Logan and represents the 23rd Psalm — a scripture reportedly cherished by Williamson's mother.

Stanley also hoped to raise awareness for The Little Closet Community Food Pantry, which was established in Williamson’s honor.

“The Good Shepherd Statue is often misunderstood as just a Jesus statue, but it has a deeper significance,” Stanley said. “I wanted to highlight the work of the food pantry and educate people about the statue’s history and my great-grandfather’s contributions.”

As part of the grand prize, Stanley received a two-night stay in a Lakepoint State Park cottage in Eufaula, courtesy of Alabama State Parks.

She will also receive $150 for travel expenses provided by ALBBAA.

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