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On Tuesday, Madison Academy erased its volleyball deficit by winning three sets against Westminster and improved its record to 12 wins and 9 losses thanks to strong play from Becky Mouser and her teammates.

Madison Arts Alliance will host the annual Battle of the Bands on Sept.

12 at 6 p.m. at Home Place Park, 100 Shorter Street, where six local bands will compete with Groove opening the show. Winners earn a $500 prize and paid gig opportunities.

Blue Apple Books in downtown Madison is celebrating September with several events.

On Sept. 13, artist Julia Johnson will lead a watercolor workshop, on Sept. 18 the store marks its second anniversary with discounts, and a signing with author A.J. Beckett is set for Sept. 19 (at 14 Main St.).

TVA will begin a 10% rate increase and add a capacity charge for data centers starting Oct.

1 to shield utility bills for homes and small businesses; Bridgeport (home to a major Google center) Mayor David Hughes supports the move and calls for more local tech investment.

The Northeast Alabama Chapter of Fellowship Christian Athletes will host a Ladies Huddle on Friday, Sept.

25 at Rocket City Tavern in Redstone Gateway with local speaker Kim Beasley discussing ‘The Lists We Make.’ RSVP (by Sept. 24) is required and lunch is provided.

High school football players balance sports with part-time jobs, academics and other pursuits.

Slate Glover packages cargo plane parts + cleans construction sites while players like Jaden Rice work at Starbucks and aim for academic scholarships.

Former James Clemens All-State player LaBryan Ray retired from the NFL after three seasons with the Panthers and one with the Patriots.

The Panthers placed him on the Reserve/Retired list on Aug. 4 to keep his contract rights should he unretire.

Christina Williams McBeth (29 years of teaching experience) has joined Liberty Middle School as its new Assistant Principal.

She will work closely with faculty, staff and students to build a safe and supportive learning environment.