A Fayette man has been arrested and charged with animal cruelty following reports from various dog owners. The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation after receiving complaints about cruelty/abuse at “Simmons Banded Retrievers,” where a chocolate Labrador named “Remi” was attending obedience training. Reports show that the business is owned and operated by Lacey Simmons.

On Friday, Sept. 6, the Fayette Police Department responded to reports of a two-vehicle crash on 2nd Ave. N.E.

On Saturday, organizers and community members celebrated the unveiling of Magnolia Ranch. The goal of Magnolia Ranch is to provide forever homes for children who have no one willing or able to care for them. Board members expressed their desire to create a peaceful, Godly, and excellent environment that will give children the opportunity to break the cycle and change the trajectory of their lives. The Magnolia Run will be held on November 9, and the Magnolia Gala, featuring guest speaker Brodie Croyle, will take place on February 2, 2025.

The 54th Fayette Arts Festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Fayette Civic Center/Art Museum located at 530 Temple Ave. N. in Fayette.

On Thursday around 12:30 a.m., the Fayette Police Department responded to a motorcycle accident that resulted in serious injuries. According to the FPD, the motorcyclist was traveling on Hwy 171 N., near Co. Rd. 80, when the 2024 Yamaha YZF-R7 left the roadway, encountered gravel, and struck the face of a guardrail. The victim, Jordan Alexander Driver, who is an officer with the Carbon Hill Police Department, was airlifted by EMS Air and transported to UAB, reports show. His condition is unknown at this time.

Carolyn Junkin will make her first appearance at Fayette’s Arts Festival, showcasing her unique artistic vision. Born in Columbus, Miss., Junkin moved to Reform with her parents at a young age, carrying a deep-rooted passion for art.

The Fayette City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 27, at Fayette City Hall. All council members were present. The meeting commenced with a prayer led by Ann Carsyn Cowart, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance recited by India Sudduth.

The Fayette County Commission held its regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 26, at the Courthouse Annex Building. Fayette County EMA Director Michael Stoker led the meeting with a prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. All commissioners were in attendance except for District Three Commissioner David Hubbert and District Four Commissioner Wesley Jacobs

Friday, Aug. 30, will mark the two year anniversary of the death of Kenneth “Kenny” Spinato. In the early morning hours of Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022, Spinato was found dead in his home. Investigators quickly determined that Spinato was a victim of a homicide. The investigation is still active and there is a $5,000 reward for the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the murder of Spinato.

A quiet Wednesday night turned into a hot pursuit, resulting in the arrest of a Mississippi man. On Wednesday, Aug. 21, around 10 p.m., Fayette County Sheriff’s Deputy Justin Williams attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The driver, however, fled down Hwy 102 near Fowlers Crossroads, reaching speeds of 109 mph, according to Fayette County Sheriff Byron Yerby.