Weaver celebrates 100th birthday recently

World War II veteran Henry Clellan Weaver celebrated his 100th birthday on Saturday, February 7th, 2026. On hand to mark the special occasion was his two daughters, one daughter-with-love, 12 grandchildren, and 13.5 great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great and great-grand nieces and nephews, and one great, great-grand niece and three great, great-grand nephews....
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Rural development nonprofit brings small business support to Black Belt

Communities Unlimited, an Arkansas-based rural development nonprofit, has begun expanding small business support across Alabama’s Black Belt, including Perry County. The initiative formally launched Oct. 1 through a USDA Rural Business Development Grant. Since then, the organization has received about 18 referrals across Perry, Marengo, Choctaw, Dallas and Greene counties, with roughly 10 entrepreneurs now...
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Branching Out: Forestry Commission Gives Away Trees at Piggly Wiggly

Community members gathered Tuesday, March 3rd at Marion Piggly Wiggly for the Alabama Forestry Commission’s Annual Tree Giveaway, an event aimed at promoting conservation and encouraging residents to enhance their home landscapes with native species. Among the volunteers offering support was Katrina Easley, Perry County Extension Director, along with staff from the Perry County Extension...
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Planting tips for spring gardening

Preparing the soil is key to a good garden The rich soil of the Black Belt region is like gold to home gardeners. Lovely home gardens require planning and regular attention. The Tuskegee University Extension Program offers several tips to help with your gardening needs. Select a planting site that has full sun. Vegetables do...
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David Thornton

David Thornton, 92, of Newbern, died March 5, 2026, in Greensboro. He was born March 12, 1933. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 14, at 1:30 p.m. at New Mission Church, County Road 20, Newbern, with burial following at Croom Cemetery in Newbern.

Cooking in the Black Belt

“How do you even make a pie crust?” I found myself asking this very question over the years anytime I approached making a pie. Up until last summer, I relied on the cookie crust variety of pie or store bought crusts—both frozen and refrigerated. It was in June of last year that I put my...
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Area Agency on Aging offers senior activity centers

Did you know there are senior activity centers right here in your community? Senior activity centers offer older adults a place to socialize, stay active, and enjoy nutritious meals in a welcoming environment. Participants can take part in activities like exercise classes, games, educational programs, and special events, while building friendships and staying connected. These...
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