Madison County residents were treated to two of the area’s strongest independence traditions during the City of Madisonville’s Fourth of July Celebration at Lake Madison Sunday: MPD Chief Herbert Gilbert’s famous dance moves and, of course, fireworks when the sun went down. It was a return to normalcy for Independence Day festivities after the 2020 celebration was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (For more pictures depicting Sunday’s Fourth of July celebration, turn to pages 6 and 7) PHOTO BY CAMPBELL ATKINS PHOTO BY ALYSSA CLOPTON

In the midst of a lengthy attempt to sell the Woodbine Hotel and Restaurant in Madisonville, hindered in large part by the COVID-19 pandemic, the historic landmark’s current owner Shamshad Zaidi is confident a buyer will emerge soon.

An 18-wheeler lost control and turned over in the Bucee’s parking lot Thursday. PHOTO BY EL CHINO ROBLES LEMUS’S FACEBOOK.

Lori’s School of Dance, Tumbling and Cheerleading dancers Anna Basinger, Gabby Bracewell, Kenzie Krantz, Bianca Pease and Darian Wayland won big at the Encore Performing Arts Nationals competition in Las Vegas last week, earning a National Grand Championship for their hiphop dance. (See News for more) COURTESY PHOTO

Zachary Rebstock was selected for the Texas state team of the 2021 4H National Shooting Sports Championships and competed June 20-25, at Heartland Shooting Park in Grand Island, NE. The first day of the competition was a modified Fédération Internationale de Tir à l’Arc (FITA) round.

The 17th edition of the Aggieland Summer Volleyball League (ASVL) took place at Madisonville CISD during the month of June and concluded last week. The summer league encompassed 39 teams spanning three divisions with MCISD hosting 188 matches over the three week period.

The Trailer Parts Outlet Team held a grand reopening at their newly renovated facilities at 2209 I-45 North in Madisonville, a few miles past Henson Ford. The celebration lasted throughout business Monday to showcase their new building. The free festivities music, food, prizes and a ribbon cutting presented by the Madison County Chamber of Commerce. PHOTOS BY CAMPBELL ATKINS