By Felicia Farnsworth
In the early hours of Wednesday morning, May 21, while most of Bullock County was still asleep, a tornado swept through part of Fitzpatrick, leaving several downed trees and widespread debris in its wake.
According to the National Weather Service, at approximately 4:19 a.m., a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located over Union Springs and was moving east at 35 mph. The tornado warning included Union Springs, Franklin Field, Aberfoil, and Sedgefield.
Award-winning author and former Poet Laureate of Alabama, Jennifer Horne, received Troy University’s Hall-Waters Prize on April 25.
The poet and nonfiction author began the day reading some of her works and answering questions from students in Dr. Kirk Curnutt’s English senior seminar class during a presentation in the Lamar P. Higgins Ballrooms on the Troy Campus. Horne was introduced at the event by her husband, Don Noble.
The award was presented during a luncheon at the International Arts Center.
Submitted by Kala Dennis, President
I’m incredibly excited to share fantastic news about our upcoming Bullock County Juneteenth Festivities. Our nonprofit organization, Christian Leaders of USA, Inc. (CLOUSA), is proud to host this multi-day celebration.
Staff Reports
Alabama’s income guidelines for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (better known as WIC) have increased, and additional people may qualify. If you are a woman who is pregnant, has had a baby within the past six months, or is currently breastfeeding, or if you are the parent or guardian of a child up to age 5, you are encouraged to contact your local county health department or WIC agency to apply.
Staff Reports
The Union Springs City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in the basement of the Bullock County Courthouse. The meeting room was filled to capacity. Mayor Roderick Clark called the meeting to order, followed by an opening prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. All council members were present except for Councilwoman LaTesha Howard.
By Felicia Farnsworth
May is recognized nationwide as Older Americans Month, and each year, Bullock County Commission Chairman Alonza Ellis, Jr. honors the community’s senior citizens with a special program designed for their benefit. This year’s event, themed “Powered by Connection,” was held on May 9 at the Richard B. Stone Complex in Union Springs.
Submitted by Margaret Jones
The Bullock County Education Retirees Support Personnel Association began the year on February 12 by conducting a Black History Reflection Moment. Famous Black Americans who made major contributions, brought about tremendous changes in equality were highlighted. February is also Heart Awareness Month; details on Heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases were provided. The meeting ended with a Black Heritage Meal, provided by members.
By Felicia Farnsworth
The Union Springs Carnegie Library has a variety of engaging summer programs planned for the community. Beginning Tuesday, May 20, the Color Your World summer reading program kicks off, offering fun activities for all ages. Participants can enjoy arts and crafts, musical chairs, Bingo, weekly prizes, reading challenges, awards, and more.
By Sean Dees, Superintendent Bullock County Schools
As part of our ongoing efforts to ensure the responsible, safe, and sustainable use of public school facilities, Bullock County Schools is updating its policy regarding the use of school buildings and grounds by outside organizations. These changes are designed to enhance accountability, maintain facility quality, and better align with best practices across the state.
