Woods sheds light on unspoken burden veterans carry

Photo of SPC. Ray Joseph Hutchinson of Texas, who was killed in a roadside bomb attack during their tour of Iraq. | Contributed photo

Sam Woods, a native of Fayette County, shared his journey of military service, reflecting on sacrifice, duty and remembrance. After graduating from Fayette County High School in 1999, he joined the U.S. Army, inspired partly by his family’s military background and the desire for personal growth beyond college.

Where is the money? Concerns raised over possible misappropriations

I want to know where the money is from the equipment that was sold. That’s what the people in the county want to know. Where’s that money at? Somebody knows.  - Billy “Jo Jo” Rogers

The Fayette County Commission held its regular meeting on Monday, May 12, at the courthouse annex building. The meeting began with a prayer led by Commission Chairman Mike Freeman, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Freeman called the meeting to order with all commissioners present except District Four Commissioner Wesley Jacobs.

Annual March for Jesus held downtown

March for Jesus participants are shown releasing balloons at this year’s event.

The 27th annual March for Jesus took place on Saturday, May 17, drawing in a crowd of over 400 participants. Organizer Milborn Savage expressed his excitement over the event’s turnout, noting that this year’s march surpassed expectations.

Remains found in case of missing toddler

Investigators sifted through 14 barrels of debris from burn piles collected at the family’s residence at 13635 Hwy. 129 in Glen Allen. | Photo courtesy of the Fayette County Sheriff's Office

In an exclusive interview, Fayette County Sheriff Byron Yerby shared details about the investigation that led to the discovery of remains believed to be those of missing toddler, Kahleb Rowan Collins. The sheriff’s office, along with the assistance of multiple agencies, launched an intensive search immediately after Kahleb’s disappearance that was reported on Dec. 9, 2024.

March for Jesus set for May 17

March for Jesus participants are shown above at last year’s event. | Aerial photo by Tommy Williams

On Saturday, May 17, community members will gather for the 27th Annual March for Jesus. The March will begin at 9 a.m. at the Fayette Train Depot Museum in downtown Fayette and will conclude with a prayer rally at Fayette First Baptist Church. This year’s theme, inspired by Titus 2:13 — “Looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ”— sets the tone for a powerful day of praise and fellowship. For early marchers, biscuits will be served at 8:15 a.m., and balloons will be handed out at 8:30 a.m. before the event begins.

Lady Wildcats crowned Area 10 AHSAA Champions

Pictured above kneeling are Karley Bonner and Maggie Mauldin; standing from left to right are Coach Hannah Howton, Kryssa Fields, Alivia Morrison, Chloe Gant, Rylee Hill, Head Coach Darrell Thomas, Ava Morrison, Sydney Rice, Terri Ann Kimbrell, Dani Kate Naramore, Alex Wilson, Shayla Mayfield, Maylon Keeton, Coach Rodney Naramore. | Photo by Kelly Bonner

Glen Allen holds annual Community Clean-up Day

Pictured above are members from the Glen Allen community who participated in the annual People Against a Littered State (PALS) Annual Spring State-Wide Cleanup which was held on Saturday, April 26.

The Glen Allen Town Council held its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, May 1, at the Town’s Community Center. All councilors were in attendance with the exception of Councilman Joel Isham.

New charges in case of missing toddler

Photo of Wendy Pamela Bailey, left, and John Elton Bailey | Photo courtesy of the Fayette County Jail

New charges have recently been filed in the case of the missing toddler. A preliminary hearing for John and Wendy Bailey was held Wednesday, April 9, at the Fayette County Courthouse. According to court documents, a grand jury indicted Wendy Bailey and her father in connection with the case of her missing son, Kahleb Rowan Collins.

Fayette County man indicted for murder

Michael Wade Tucker | Photo courtesy of the Fayette County Jail

A Fayette County man has been indicted by a grand jury in connection with the death of 21-year-old Laci Cheyenne Whitson. According to a grand jury indictment dated March 19, Michael Wade Tucker, 38, was indicted on charges of murder, abuse of a corpse and certain persons forbidden to possess a firearm. 

Falling trees damage home during storms

Photo by Fayette County Sheriff Byron Yerby

On Friday, May 2, the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Fayette County EMA and Kirkland Bluff Wayside Volunteer Fire Department responded to 1259 Kirkland Road in Fayette County after four trees fell on the residence of Joyce Gann during the evening storms. No injuries were reported during the incident.

Lady Wildcats go to regionals

The Berry varsity girls senior players were honored on Wednesday, April 23. Pictured above are Maggie Mauldin (14) with her parents Jared and Mandie Mauldin; Karley Bonner (21) with her parents Kelly and Tommy Bonner. | Photo by Kelly Bonner

The Berry varsity girls secured a 13-0 win against the Marion County Red Raiders on Monday, April 28. The Lady Wildcats lost 6- 5 to the Brilliant Tigers on Tuesday, April 29, in game one of the championship game.  In game two, the Wildcats were victorious with a 5-2 win over Marion County. In the final game of the day, the Lady Wildcats secured a 8-4 victory over Brilliant.

Annual Berry Heritage Festival a success

The Berry Heritage Festival took place on Friday and Saturday, bringing the community together for a weekend full of excitement. Vendors filled Heritage Park, selling everything from handmade crafts and trinkets to delicious treats. Kids had a blast bouncing in the inflatable house, riding carnival rides, and playing with adorable baby goats. On Friday night, Brandon Malone and The Whiskey Over Ice Band kept the crowd entertained and on their feet with live music. Saturday morning kicked off with a car show, where classic and custom vehicles were on full display for attendees to admire.