By Felicia Farnsworth
The Union Springs City Council met on Tuesday, February 17, with all council members present along with Mayor Ron Smith. Rev. Gary Lewis opened the meeting with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda was adopted with one addition regarding a mental health board appointment, and minutes from the previous meeting were approved without changes. There was no old business.
By Felicia Farnsworth
The Bullock County Extension Office recently welcomed community members for a Threat Evaluation and Reporting Training (TERO), an informative session focused on violence prevention and public safety. The training was led by Susan McCallister, Director of Community Targeted Violence Prevention at Auburn University.
By Felicia Farnsworth
Former U.S. Senator Doug Jones, now a candidate for Governor of Alabama in 2026, held a listening tour event Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Bullock County Courthouse. The gathering drew community members eager to hear directly from the Democratic candidate about issues facing residents and the state.
By Felicia Farnsworth
South Highlands Middle School (SHMS) Jr. Beta Club members recently represented their school at the Alabama State Convention of the National Beta Club, held February 16–18, 2026, at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel. The annual event brought together students from across the state to compete in a variety of academic, STEM, visual arts, and performing arts categories.
Submitted by Cynthia Hall Jackson and Rev. Gary Lewis
The culmination of the Annual Black History Program was observed at First Missionary Baptist Church, located at 106 Holcombe Avenue, on Sunday, February 22, 2026, during the 11 a.m. worship service.
By Felicia Farnsworth
The Midway Nutrition Center recently hosted a festive Valentine’s Day gathering filled with laughter, games, and fellowship. Participants enjoyed an afternoon of friendly competition, sweet treats, and meaningful time together.
For more than two years, Janessa has called the Bullock County Humane Society home. She and her sister, Jada, arrived at the shelter as young puppies on June 23, 2023. While the sisters have had each other for companionship, Janessa is still waiting for a family of her own.
By Felicia Farnsworth
February is Black History Month, a time to honor the countless individuals whose creativity and resilience have shaped American culture. In Union Springs and Bullock County, one such figure, Isiah “Boosie” Jackson, stands out as an important, though often overlooked, contributor to the region’s artistic heritage.
By Felicia Farnsworth
The passing of Jesse Jackson on February 17, 2026, marks the end of an era for the modern civil rights movement and brings a moment of deep reflection during Black History Month. For decades, Jackson stood as one of the most recognizable and outspoken advocates for racial equality, economic justice, and political empowerment in America. His life’s work not only shaped national conversations but also touched small communities across the South, including Bullock County, Alabama.
