Lt. Reese promoted to rank of Bessemer Police Captain
Bessemer Police Chief Gary Carmichael has announced the promotion of Lt. Kenneth Reese to the rank of captain, effective January 24, 2026. A native of Dolomite, Capt. Reese has been with the department since September 2002. “I am honored to have been promoted, and I thank Police Chief Gary Carmichael for giving me this opportunity.... Read More
MLK Jr. Day celebrated Remembering one who was for all
Silver Boomers perform “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around” song with African inspired instrumentation.(above) On January 15, 1929, Michael King, Jr., was born to Rev. Michael and Alberta King in Atlanta, Georgia. Ninety-seven years later, a large majority of the United States of America still celebrates the man who would be known as Martin... Read More
Applications now open for 2026 Ala. Governor’s Office Summer Internship
Governor Kay Ivey on Friday announced that the application period for the Governor’s Office Summer Internship Program is now open. This nine-week program offers college students a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience in state government, while working alongside dedicated professionals in the executive branch. A staunch advocate for education and a former teacher, Governor... Read More
Tamela Allen
Tamela Allen, 51, died January 21, 2026. A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Melvin Miller Funeral Chapel, 302 Pickens Street, Marion.
Elizabeth Scobee Ellis
Elizabeth “Betsy” Scobee Ellis, 84, of Marion, AL, passed away Sunday, January 25, 2026. Birth and Residence: Born and raised in Bardstown, KY; lived in Marion, AL since 1968. Life and Legacy: Devoted organist for Siloam Baptist Church since the early 1980s, taught piano, and shared her musical talent at weddings, funerals, and local nursing... Read More
Alabama Power offers tips for saving energy and money during fluctuating winter weather
Since December, some Alabama areas have experienced nine days with temperature changes of 10+ degrees from one day to the next. A cold snap with lows in the 20s is expected, staying below freezing for the week. Rapid temperature changes can strain heating systems and increase energy costs. 1. Treat Your Home Like a System,... Read More
IRS opened 2025 tax filing season on Monday, January 26
IRS Opens 2026 Tax Filing Season Date: January 26, 2026For: Tax Year 2025 The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has officially opened the 2026 tax filing season and is now accepting federal individual income tax returns for 2025. The IRS expects about 164 million returns to be filed ahead of the April 15, 2026 federal deadline.... Read More
Cooking in the Black Belt
A Banana Pudding Journey If you’re like me, you love banana pudding in all its variations. My mother made it like just about anyone would: some instant banana pudding, Cool Whip, and Nilla Wafers. She would line a bowl with cookies, add the pudding, top with the Cool Whip, and finish it with more cookies... Read More
Suttles hit with multiple charges after alleged incident at Lottie’s
A Marion man has been charged in connection with an early-morning incident at Lottie’s Restaurant on Washington Street that left the popular eatery’s owner and another person injured. Charges Filed According to a criminal complaint filed in Perry County District Court, Lue David Suttle of Marion was arrested Jan. 23 and charged with: One count... Read More
Marion Police Dept. weekly report log
Marion Police Incident Report Incidents January 18, 2026 Marion police responded to a fire call at Judy’s Convenience Store on Washington Street. January 19, 2026 A vehicle wreck involving a vehicle and College City Drugs on Washington Street was reported. January 20, 2026 Officers took a report of first-degree theft involving a vehicle on Grove... Read More