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This week’s headlines from October 1997 highlighted a mix of community events, local business ventures and safety concerns in Butler County. From a fun-filled radio fundraiser determining Greenville’s “ugliest man” to a local syrup business preparing for national television exposure, these stories capture a snapshot of life in Greenville.

Radio Day and Greenville’s Ugliest Man: The Greenville Lions Club prepared for its annual Radio Day fundraiser on October 29 on WQZX (Q-94), raising money for various charities. According to Lions Club President Linda Horn, the event, which featured trivia, games and ad sponsorships from local businesses, would be highlighted by the announcement of the “Ugliest Man in Greenville.” The winner earned the honor of riding atop a toilet in the Greenville Christmas Parade.

Dry conditions increase fire danger: Due to ongoing dry conditions, the Alabama Forestry Commission urged Butler County residents to exercise caution when burning outdoors. Forestry Manager Paul Hudgins stated that although a fire alert had been lifted, the risk of grass and woods fires remained high. Hudgins noted that eight fires had been reported recently, some of which were the result of controlled burns getting out of hand.

Local youth enjoy fishing day: Around 100 children and their parents participated in a free fishing rodeo at Sherling Lake, organized by the Alabama Game and Fish Division, the YMCA and local sponsors. The event featured a stocked lake and prizes for all participants, with hopes of even more attendees next year.

Local syrup takes spotlight: Georgiana’s Lowery Hardware found itself in a sticky situation as the store’s owner, Royce Lowery, prepared to promote his cane syrup business, Carson Ann Syrup, on QVC. The product, named after Lowery’s granddaughter, was set to appear on the network’s Quest for the Best 50/50 show in November, offering Lowery a national platform to grow his business.