The Alabama Beacon

“Never go into a job because of the pay and make sure you have the passion for it,” is what Cedric Hayden told us at his recent retirement ceremony. For twenty years, Mr. Hayden has served the Jefferson County community with passion and dedication. With a bittersweet outlook, Mr. Hayden’s retirement comes on time to...

Tiny Pest, Big Problem: Researchers take on tomato virus outbreak

When carefully inspecting produce, many consumers look for visible, physical imperfections like blemishes or bruises. Meanwhile, out in the fields, horticultural researchers focus on issues shoppers cannot see, like thrips. These pests get beneath the surface of produce while it is growing and pack a serious punch. In 2020, a major outbreak of tomato spotted...

ALDOT to host public meeting in Tuscaloosa on July 13

The Alabama Department of Transportation’s West Central Region will host a public involvement meeting on July 13, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. The public is invited to discuss and comment on the Statewide Transportation Plan (SWTP). Comments received during the meeting will help shape Alabama’s next Statewide Transportation Plan. What is the SWTP and...

Alabama leads multi-state letter in support of USPS proposed rule to secure mail-in or absentee ballots for federal elections

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall filed a comment letter last week on behalf of 13 states in support of the U.S. Postal Service’s proposed rule strengthening mailing standards for the transmission of mail-in ballots for federal elections. As argued in the letter, states have full constitutional authority and total control of ballots until they are...

Area residents receive degree from Washington and Lee University

The following local residents received a degree from Washington and Lee University on May 28. Commencement ceremonies for 454 Washington and Lee seniors were held on the university’s historic Front Lawn. Aden Andru Boyd of Bessemer, Ala., received a Bachelor of Arts degree. Boyd majored in Earth and Environmental Geoscience. Faith Hana Chang of Hoover,...

“Limitless Futuristic Endeavors” Recent graduate of Bessemer’s Aerospace and Aviation High School looks to the future

Last year Bessemer’s Alabama Aerospace and Aviation High School celebrated their first graduation ceremony for their first graduating class, and this year they celebrated their second commencement. This time, however, it was for the first class to attend there all four years. This milestone is one that should be remembered just as much as the...

University of Mississippi celebrates May 2026 graduates

More than 3,800 students graduated from the University of Mississippi in May 2026. Undergraduate and graduate candidates received degrees from the College of Liberal Arts, General Studies and schools of Accountancy, Applied Sciences, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, Journalism and New Media, Law and Pharmacy. Mia Ujueta, of Bessemer, AL, is one of the May 2026...

A chat with Alan Brooks, music director, Hueytown United Methodist Church

A very pleasant, friendly gentleman, Alan Brooks of McCalla simply loves music. Music has had a profound influence on him all of his life. Alan has been music director at Hueytown Methodist Church since January of 2025. He is the former music director at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church in McCalla, having served for 22...

SOUTHERN STYLES: Plantation Manor 4th of July BBQ, Music and Fireworks Display Star-Spangled

The 4th of July holiday and America’s 250th anniversary of independence were celebrated with great fun and fireworks at Plantation Manor Retirement Community in McCalla. The fun-filled, patriotic event occurred last Friday, July 3. Flags and buntings decorated the rooms and the buildings. Planning the celebratory activities were Activity Director Shon Harris and assistants Amber...

Gillespie Construction Co. awarded bid for 19th Street bridge repairs