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Berry VFD to host rodeo event

Grab your cowboy hats and saddle up – the rodeo is coming to Berry! The town is hosting its very first rodeo event, thanks to the Berry Volunteer Fire Department. The Edge Right Berry VFD Pro Rodeo, presented by Deep South Rodeo Productions, will take place on March 21-22, with all proceeds benefiting the fire department. The event will be held at 255 Co. Rd. 30 W. in Berry and promises fun for the whole family. The two-day event will feature thrilling rodeo action, food trucks and shopping vendors. Gates open both nights at 5 p.m., with Mutton Bustin’ starting at 6:30 p.m.

Nolen receives lifetime achievement award


Nolen, right, is shown receiving his lifetime achievement award at the 13th Annual E.A. “Larry” Drummond Lifetime Scouting Achievement Award Luncheon on Friday, Feb. 28. | Contributed photo

Fayette native and longtime attorney Steven M. Nolen was honored with the 2025 E.A. “Larry” Drummond Lifetime Scouting Achievement Award at the 13th Annual Luncheon on Friday, Feb. 28. The award recognizes his lifelong commitment to scouting and the significant impact he has had on the youth of Fayette County.

Two vehicle fires occur two days apart

On Wednesday, Feb. 26, The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office and Fayette Fire Department responded to a single vehicle fire on Hwy 159. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

On Friday, Feb. 28, the owner of a 2500 HD Chevrolet truck was driving down the road when he said he smelled smoke. He stated that the flames began erupting from the front end. No injuries were reported during the incident.

Break in at Caines Ridge

Caine’s Ridge Church, pictured above, sustained minimal damage during a break in that was reported on Sunday morning.

On Sunday, Feb. 23, around 9 a.m., Fayette Police received reports of a possible break-in at Caines Ridge Church on Hwy 159. According to Police Chief Danny Jenkins, no items were taken, but a pallet was found inside, which was believed to have been used for someone to sleep and escape the cold. 

Town mourns loss of Madison


Photo of Jimmy Madison

Residents of the town of Berry and Fayette County mourn the loss of beloved Mayor Jimmy Madison. Madison passed away at the age of 82 on Tuesday, Feb. 4, at UAB Hospital. He dedicated over four decades of his life to the service and betterment of the Berry community.

Bill would ban sell of Delta 8 products

Delta 8, the product in question, comes in many varieties that are sold at local gas stations. Pictured above are some of the products that are currently available to adults over the age of 21. | Contributed photo

Alabama lawmakers have introduced Senate Bill 132 (SB-132), sponsored by State Senator Tim Melson (R-Florence), that aims to ban Delta-8 THC, Delta-9 THC, and Delta-10 THC products across the state.

Miller finds purpose in fostering children



Deborah Hocutt Milller, right, and her husband Jerry Miller. | Contributed photo

For over four decades, Deborah Hocutt Miller has been a beacon of compassion and dedication in the medical and foster care fields. With 42 years of service in the emergency room at Fayette Medical Center, Miller has devoted her life to helping others during their most critical moments, becoming a comforting presence to countless patients and their families.