SOUTHERN STYLES: St. Andrew’s Society of the Middle South celebrates Scottish heritage at annual banquet
The men of the St. Andrew’s Society don’t need an excuse to toast auld Scotland.Ceud Mile Fuilte! Dripping with pomp and ceremony, the St. Andrew’s Society of the Middle South 65th Annual Banquet was a grand, memorable occasion. The fun and festive event was held in the East Room at the Country Club of Birmingham.... Read More
Bryonda Collins appointed to Bessemer Public Library Board
According to the Code of Alabama (1975), the Bessemer City Council has the authority to appoint members of the Bessemer Public Library Board of Trustees. At a recent meeting of the Bessemer City Council, Bryonda A. Collins was nominated and appointed to the Bessemer Public Library Board of Trustees, Place No. 1. Collins lives at... Read More
Former Western Star Women’s/ Social Editor dies
A fixture in Bessemer’s once thriving social scene for over 35 years, former Western Star Women’s Editor and Social Editor Gaynell Morrow died on Sunday, December 14, 2025. A Celebration of Life service was held on December 18 at The Baptist Church at McAdory. Anita Gaynell Morrow, 88, of McCalla is survived by her husband... Read More
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
Bessemer daycare celebrates milestone anniversary of service
Making a difference is what many seek when it comes to opening a business or serving the public, and Just Like Home Academy is no exception. For twenty-eight years, Mrs. Sharon Lewis and staff have provided top tier services within the instrumentation of upbringing and teaching services for our youth. “As an entrepreneur I always... 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