Guidelines for Submitting your Church/Community Announcements
These are free as long as there are no personal messages and the event is not being charged for (love offerings do not count). Please keep the announcement to one paragraph with who is presenting the event, what the event is, date, time, where it will be held and contact information. Email them to [email protected]. We can not take anything over the phone due to company policy.
2025 Holiday Deadlines: Deadline for Senior photos and biographies for Graduation Edition is the last Friday in April, April 25th. SCRJ will be closed for Memorial Day Mon., May 26 and has a late deadline of Tues., May 27 by noon for the May 29th edition. Deadline for Juneteenth events is Mon., June 16. SCRJ will be closed Fri., July 4th. SCRJ will be closed for Labor Day and there is a late deadline for Tues., Sept. 2 by noon for the Sept. 4th edition. Deadline is Mon., Nov. 3rd for Veterans Day announcements. Deadline is Fri., Nov. 21 for the Thanksgiving edition. We have to submit the paper early due to the printing company being closed for the holidays. SCRJ will be closed Nov. 24-30. Santa Letter deadline is by Fri., Dec. 5th. Deadline for the Christmas/Santa letter special edition for ads is Fri., Dec. 12. Deadline for BOTH the Dec. 25th and Jan. 1st editions is Fri., Dec. 19. We have to submit both papers early due to the printing company being closed for the holidays. SCRJ will be closed Dec. 22-Jan. 1 for the holidays.
EARTH’S BOUNTY MEANS ECLECTIC:
PLANTS GALORE, REAL JUICE AND “INDIANA”
The Earth’s Bounty festival brings back some crowd favorites in May, then shakes things up with some new tastes and a down-home musician. The Master Gardeners will hold one of their always popular plant sales at Earth’s Bounty on Saturday, May 5 from 8 a.m. until noon at our new home in the MAX Courtyard on the corner of 22nd Avenue and Front Street. And if the Master Gardeners don’t have exactly what you want, try Ron Thompson’s booth. He’ll have a variety of house plants for sale. A new vendor at Earth’s Bounty is bringing fresh juice to the market. The cold-pressed juices in a variety of fruity flavors will add a fresh note to any meal or snack. While checking out new products and old favorites, enjoy the eclectic strains of live music performed by Matthew “Indiana” Nicholson, the lead guitarist for local band, The Family Gathering. Born in Alaska, spending time in Indiana, then settling in Meridian, where he’s been for 26 years, Indiana will mix it up with blues, Americana and rock in a solo acoustic performance. Vendors will also offer a variety of skin care products; baked gods like candied nuts and pretzels; honey; home-canned goods; and goat milk products. Friends of Bonita Lakes will have an information booth with updates on services and events at the park, including the new arboretum that recently opened.
ART FARM CELEBRATES WORKS BY AREA ARTISANS
Art Farm, Meridian’s newest artistic adventure, spreads out its wares for the second time on May 3 on Front Street downtown from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Items for sale will include unique pottery pieces and other hand-crafted items, including possibly some woodworking creations. This newest addition to the local arts scene runs in conjunction with the Earth’s Bounty farmers’ market festival, held on the first Saturday of each month, April through November. Art Farm is easy to find. Booths are set up on Front Street on the east side of 22nd Avenue, just outside the MAX Courtyard, which is home to Earth’s Bounty. Art Farm is a juried arts show and sale, so all items meet standards that factor in workmanship, creativity and use of natural materials. Anyone interested in a booth at Art Farm should contact Craig Wilkes, City of Meridian, at 601-485-1998 or [email protected].
Paid Advertisement 4-24-25
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for April 26. Take Back Day provides a safe way to get rid of unwanted, unused, and expired prescription drugs. Find a collection site near you at tinyurl.com/44vcr6e4.
YWE Earth Day Clean Up Volunteers Needed
Community volunteers are needed at York West End Jr. High School on April 28, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. contact us with any questions 205-392-5901. Light refreshments provided.
West Alabama Nuisance Wildlife Workshop
Do you assistance in or want to learn more about managing nuisance and invasive wildlife? If so, feel free to attend this Nuisance Wildlife Workshop at the Marengo County Extension Office on May 30, 9 a.m. -2:25 p.m. covering hog management, livestock depredation, and wildlife around the home. For more information contact Marengo County Extension Office 334-295-5959, [email protected], or Dylan taylor [email protected]. There is a small feel for registration.
Book Walk
Families and children of all ages are invited to enjoy physical activity while reading a story on the Sumter County Courthouse Square. The Book Walk encourages reading and physical activity in one event,’ says Sanquenetta Thompson, SNAP Extension Agent. April 22-30 community members can participate anytime of day.
Sumter Central School District Presents A-Day Autism Awareness Walk
April 25, 1-2 p.m. celebrating Autism Month. You’re invited! Join us as we come together to share essential resources, helpful tools, and valuable insights to uplift and support our community on the autism journey. Together we can make a difference. Sign up to walk in the gym. Vocational rehab, medicaid programs, West Alabama Mental Health, Alabama Waiver programs, and regional autism network.
Federation of Southern Cooperatives 7th annual Co-op Symposium
Come join us to celebrate and learn at our 7th annual Co-op Symposium! Our Rural Research and Training Cente, 575 Federation Rd., Gainesville, will host as we discuss the importance of Cooperatives, how the federation continues to support our cooperatives, and offer opportunities to those looking to start a cooperative. Join us on April 25th at 9 a.m. and register on our LUMA to register and keep up to date on all our upcoming events: https://lu.ma/ASAC
Hightower Memorial Library Summer Reading Program
Hightower Memorial Library is happy to announce our Summer Reading Program Theme: “Color Our World!” For 2025, we invite you to embark on a journey of art and creativity, celebrating the countless ways in which art enriches our lives. Our program is designed to inspire and engage readers of all ages through a diverse array of artistic and reading expressions. All are invited to join us June 1-30. It’s free and fun for all ages! All programs and activities for children, teens, and adults are free and include performers, magicians, authors, presenters, book clubs, and more! Earn a prize for reading a minimum of 8 books and completing one activity this summer! Registration forms are available at the library. Please come and sign up! Space is limited. Your humble librarians: Edna Williams, Glenda James and Glenda Evans.
CCA Presents: Love and Legacy, The Bergamot Crown and CCA Elite Spring Recital
Rooted in Love and Legacy, The Bergamot Crown is a multifaceted exhibition that honors the stories of my ancestors while celebrating the cultural significance of hair as a connection to identity and heritage. Through vibrant art pieces, interactive stations and collected hair stories from the community, the exhibition invites you to explore legacy, resilience, and self-expression themes. Join us for an artist talk and opening reception at the Altman Riddick Museum Gallery, 630 Avenue A, York, on Friday, April 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m., and an artist workshop on Saturday, April 26! We are wrapping up another fun semester of learning technique and choreography in Jazz, Lyrical, and Hip Hop dance styles with a Spring Recital! Join us at the dance studio on April 26, at 1 p.m. CCA Elite Dance will showcase what they have learned over the past few months with Ms. Jayla and Ms. Emmie. The CCA Elite Dance program is offered at no cost, thanks to the generous support of the Daniel Foundation of Alabama.
Central Chapel P. B. Church Health Fair
Central Chapel P. B. Church Health Fair will be May 3, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at West Alabama Coalition for Community Development, 902 4th Ave. U. S. 11 Hwy. S., York. Topics of focus will be on neurological mental disorders for adults and children, and include: autism, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disorder. We will have drawings for door prizes along with lunch. For more information contact Pastor George Hale 205-652-7896, 205-499-5012, or Deacon Roosevelt Carlile, Sr. 205-499-8565.
UWA’s Creative Arts Programs Take Center Stage at New Campus Amphitheater
The University of West Alabama will host “Arts @ the Amp,” a comprehensive arts celebration, on Saturday, April 26, at the university’s new amphitheater near the Student Union Building. The recently constructed multimillion-dollar amphitheater serves as the inspiration and venue for this inaugural event. The celebration begins at 1 p.m. with visual art exhibitions featuring student work across various mediums, including 3D printed art, ceramics, drawings and paintings. Stage performances begin at 2 p.m., centered on the theme “Where is Love?” The UWA Choir and soloists will perform jazz arrangements of classics including “What a Wonderful World,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and a finale of “What the World Needs Now” featuring the Arts @ the Amp Vocal Boot Camp participants. The program also includes theatrical performances by UWA drama students presenting integrated scenes from contemporary works. The performance schedule integrates music, dance, theater and poetry from performers of all ages, including students and faculty. Community members are invited to participate in the Vocal Boot Camp, a group vocal workshop beginning at 10 a.m. on the same day. Participants will receive vocal training and perform alongside the University of West Alabama Choir during the finale. The event, organized by UWA’s Communications and Creative Arts Department under the leadership of Department Chair Greg Jones, represents a collaborative effort between faculty and students. The university welcomes donations to support UWA’s Creative Arts programs. Contributions can be made online atwww.uwa.edu/donate/cae or in person at the event. Vocal Boot Camp: Basic Training for Every Singer, April 26, 10 a.m.-noon (workshop) Wallace Hall 113 Music Laboratory, for students, faculty, staff and community singers ages 10 and up. Boot Camp participants will sing at the 2 p.m. performance. Arts @ the Amp Performance: April 26, 2-3:30 p.m. (performance) The Amp. Free community event, donations accepted.
First Baptist Church of Epes Pastor and First Lady’s 11th Appreciation Day
We, the members of First Baptist Church of Epes cordially invite you to come and celebrate our Pastor and First Lady’s 11th Appreciation Day Sun., April 27 at 2 p.m. Our guest speaker for this occasion will be Pastor Coley Rogers, Sr. of New Jones Baptist Church, Emelle.
National Day of Prayer
This year’s National Day of Prayer for the Sumter County area will be hosted by Living Word Church, Livingston, Thurs., May 1, at 3 p.m. We are asking all residents, businesses, local leaders, pastors, governmental and city officials to join us as we commemorate 74 years of praying for America and seven years of prayer going forth here in Livingston. We are asking you to come out and support this event as we pray fervently over these seven mountains of influence. Our theme for this year is: “Pour out to the God of hope and be filled,” Romans 15:13. Submitted by Min. Leola Washington, volunteer coordinator for NDPTF, Sumter County, Ala.
Tombigbee RC&D Supplies for Success
Are you a elementary school teacher in Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Pickens, Sumter, or Tuscaloosa County? If so, Tombigbee RC&D is starting our Supplies for Success program aiming at aiding stocking teachers classrooms. We will be accepting applications until June 15. The application is a simple online form that will assess the needs of your classroom. Recipients will be notified via email by July 15. See the Faceboook page at Tombigbee RC&D for the QR code and application link.
April’s Grow More Give More Harvest of the Month is Cauliflower
Cauliflower will be ready to harvest 60 to 70 days after planting, when the curds (aborted flower heads) are 6 to 8 inches in diameter. However, the timing varies by variety. Find growing instructions as well as yummy recipes that use cauliflower at www.aces.edu/blog/topics/lawn-garden/april-grow-more-give-more-harvest-of-the-month.
This April, the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) is proud to recognize Autism Acceptance Month. This is a time to highlight the strengths and challenges of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and to promote understanding, acceptance, and support. Throughout April, ADMH and its partners will be sharing stories and resources to raise awareness and celebrate the contributions of individuals with autism. Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects how people interact, communicate, and experience the world around them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 36 children in the United States have ASD, with more than 5.4 million adults in the U.S. are living with autism. Research shows that early intervention can have a profound impact on the lives of individuals with autism, helping them build skills and achieve greater independence. ADMH remains committed to building a stronger network of care and understanding across Alabama. ADMH offers comprehensive support to families through a range of programs, through the Office of Autism Services. These services are designed to guide individuals and their loved ones, from the initial diagnosis through the various stages of life, ensuring they have the tools and assistance needed to thrive. The Alabama Interagency Autism Coordinating Council (AIACC) plays a critical role in autism-related policies and services across the state. By identifying needs, recommending solutions, and promoting initiatives, the AIACC works to create a more supportive environment for individuals with autism throughout Alabama. Additionally, the Regional Autism Network (RAN) serves as a resource center, connecting families, educators, and providers with information, training, and technical support. The RAN also offers direct assistance to anyone seeking guidance.
We invite everyone to join us in fostering understanding and empowering individuals with autism, not just this month, but throughout the entire year.
For more information about ADMH’s Office of Autism Services, the AICC, the RAN, and additional programs, visit mh.alabama.gov/autism-services.
ASF Foundation to Honor Dads at 42nd Alabama State Games
With registration for the 42nd Alabama State Games underway, the ASF Foundation is proud to announce that Dads will be recognized as part of the Honoring Our Heroes program during this year’s Opening Ceremony, which will take place June 13 at Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham. Athletes registering at ALAGAMES.com can register their Dads for recognition through the Honoring Our Heroes Program. Admission to all the June 13 events is free and open to friends, families and the public.
Cottage Food Law Safety Training
Cottage Food Law Safety Training will be held on May 6, at the ALFA Environmental Training Center in Livingston, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Please register at www.aces.edu/go/cottagefoo
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
If you or someone you know is struggling to cope emotionally this holiday season, reach out. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free, and confidential support via phone or chat for people in distress, resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Visit 988lifeline.org for more.
Join Us for the At Home
Beekeeping Series! 🐝
Calling all beekeepers! Our online series is back, offering educational information and updates on timely beekeeping topics. Attend meetings from the comfort of your home using your computer or mobile device. Each session includes a Q&A segment for all your beekeeping questions. Our next session is on July 30th! Don’t miss out. For more information, visit: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/bees-pollinators/at-home-beekeeping-series/ Dates and Topics: 2025 Dates and Topics: April 29 Honeybee Nest Architecture, Michael Smith, Auburn University. Recordings from this series are available for only two weeks after each session on the Lawrence County Alabama Extension Office Facebook page. For more information on the “At Home Beekeeping Series,” contact Allyson Shabel at [email protected].
Community Prayer
Community Prayer for the Sumter County area will be held every 1st Thursday of each month at noon for one hour at the Bored Well, the Courthouse Square, Livingston. We’re asking all residents, businesses, local leaders, pastors, governmental and city officials to join us as we come together as a community to pray. Submitted by Min. Leola Washington, Volunteer Coordinator for NDPTF, Sumter County.
School Events
ORCA 5K
The ORCA 5K will beApril 26 at 9 a.m. for check in and line up at 10 a.m. for ORCA 5K at UWA Nature Trails. $15 per runner and $10 per dog. Dogs must be leashed. Register for a chance to win door prize. T-shirts and doggy bags at check-in. For more information and ot pregeister email [email protected] or call 334-341-3338. Paid Advertisement
Shelton State Community College
Spring Commencement
All events are open to the public. Ceremonies will take place in the Martin Campus Gymnasium, except for Pre-K Graduation which will be held in the Bean-Brown Theatre. Ceremonies will be live streamed on the College’s YouTube channel. Information for each event is below. Sun., April 27, 2 p.m. – Honors Convocation; Wed., April 30, 6:30 p.m. – Workforce Development Completion Ceremony; Thurs., May 1, 4 p.m. – GED Graduation, 6 p.m. – Nursing Pinning Ceremony; Friday, May 2, 9 a.m. – Technical Programs Graduation Ceremony, 11 a.m. – Academic & Health Services Graduation Ceremony; Fri., May 23, 9 a.m. – Pre-K Graduation Ceremony. For more information about other upcoming events at Shelton State, visit sheltonstate.edu.
UWA’s Creative Arts Programs Take Center Stage at New Campus Amphitheater
The University of West Alabama will host “Arts @ the Amp,” a comprehensive arts celebration, on Saturday, April 26, at the university’s new amphitheater near the Student Union Building. The recently constructed multimillion-dollar amphitheater serves as the inspiration and venue for this inaugural event. The celebration begins at 1 p.m. with visual art exhibitions featuring student work across various mediums, including 3D printed art, ceramics, drawings and paintings. Stage performances begin at 2 p.m., centered on the theme “Where is Love?” The UWA Choir and soloists will perform jazz arrangements of classics including “What a Wonderful World,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and a finale of “What the World Needs Now” featuring the Arts @ the Amp Vocal Boot Camp participants. The program also includes theatrical performances by UWA drama students presenting integrated scenes from contemporary works. The performance schedule integrates music, dance, theater and poetry from performers of all ages, including students and faculty. Community members are invited to participate in the Vocal Boot Camp, a group vocal workshop beginning at 10 a.m. on the same day. Participants will receive vocal training and perform alongside the University of West Alabama Choir during the finale. The event, organized by UWA’s Communications and Creative Arts Department under the leadership of Department Chair Greg Jones, represents a collaborative effort between faculty and students. The university welcomes donations to support UWA’s Creative Arts programs. Contributions can be made online atwww.uwa.edu/donate/cae or in person at the event. Vocal Boot Camp: Basic Training for Every Singer, April 26, 10 a.m.-noon (workshop) Wallace Hall 113 Music Laboratory, for students, faculty, staff and community singers ages 10 and up. Boot Camp participants will sing at the 2 p.m. performance. Arts @ the Amp Performance: April 26, 2-3:30 p.m. (performance) The Amp. Free community event, donations accepted.
UA Preview: This Week at The University of Alabama
| April 21, 2025 📰 BEST BETS RISE Center Hosts Fundraisers The University of Alabama RISE Center will host its annual RISE Tournament of Champions golf fundraiser April 24-25 and CHIP in for RISE April 29. Why This Matters: Fundraising support has been instrumental in the program’s longevity and its ability to provide much needed early intervention services to children of varying abilities in the Tuscaloosa area. There are eight RISE programs across the country and RISE Tuscaloosa is the only program where all children needing therapy services continue to attend RISE Center at no cost. For more information, contact Rosemary Klein at [email protected]. Renowned Management Professor Receives Burnum Award Dr. Dan Bachrach, professor of management and Robert C. and Rosa P. Morrow Faculty Excellence Fellow in the Culverhouse College of Business, is the recipient of the 2024 Burnum Distinguished Faculty Award. Bachrach will provide a special lecture titled “Leadership and Scholarship at the Culverhouse College of Business” and be presented with his award during a ceremony April 23 at 4 p.m. in the Deshe Parlor on the fourth floor of Alston Hall. A reception will follow. Why This Matters: The Burnum Award was established by Dr. and Mrs. John F. Burnum of Tuscaloosa to recognize and promote excellence in research, scholarship and teaching during a distinguished UA career. 💬 CURRENT COMMENT With April designated as Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Dr. Adam Knowlden is available to discuss his research in drunken, drowsy and distracted driving. 📅 EVENTS Gathering in Gorgas House Open through May 2; Gorgas House Museum Saturday in the Park: Spring Wildlife Day April 26; UA Moundville Archaeological Park |