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The following stories appeared in The Greenville Advocate during this week in June 2013. Highlights included efforts to bring Hollywood back to Butler County and a local school receiving statewide recognition for its turnaround efforts. 

Greenville aimed to become “camera ready”

Greenville aimed to become “camera ready” for film production after the success of “Honeydripper,” a 2007 film shot in the area. Greenville Mayor Dexter McLendon said the film helped unite the community and demonstrated the potential economic impact of hosting a movie. A rural film briefing hosted by the Butler County Commission for Economic Development drew officials and industry professionals who discussed making towns more appealing to filmmakers. The Alabama Film Office noted the state’s growing film industry, with $33.5 million spent on productions in 2012, up from $22 million the year before. New incentives and workforce training programs such as EMPACT were designed to support further growth.

Basketball camp fosters ‘love for the game’ 

Georgiana School’s summer basketball camp returned with around 50 campers, ages eight to 14, under the leadership of head coach Kirk Norris. The three-day camp emphasized fundamentals and included competitions like 3-on-3, 5-on-5 and free throw contests. 

Norris said his goal was to instill both skills and a love for the game. Several former Georgiana players, including collegiate athletes like James Daniels and Adrian Rich, assisted with instruction. Trustmark Bank sponsored the event for the sixth consecutive year.

GMS chosen for conference 

Greenville Middle School was chosen to present at the statewide Mega Conference, one of only four middle schools selected. Principal Curtis Black credited the school’s turnaround to a culture shift and a focus on student success. After years of struggling with Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP), GMS had met its benchmarks for two straight years. Administrators shared strategies like teacher collaboration, parental engagement and deeper awareness of student challenges. Assistant principal Kent McNaughton and superintendent Darren Douthitt highlighted the importance of seeing students’ living conditions to better understand their needs.

Rodeo supports Sheriff’s office

The Butler County Sheriff’s PCA Championship Rodeo wrapped up its fourth year, raising funds for the Sheriff’s Office. Held over two days, the event featured professional competitions in bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing and more. Over $8,000 in prize money was awarded. Rodeo clown Reggie Purvis, a veteran performer who began as a bull rider at age 13, entertained crowds and drew praise for his versatility in comedy, barrel work and bullfighting. Purvis had previously been honored as PCA Bullfighter Clown of the Year and Rodeo Clown of the Year.