The Alabama Beacon

Once again, a real sense of community was realized by the citizens, law enforcement and first responders in Hueytown. Part of a nationwide movement, National Night Out was a fun, family-friendly event held recently in Hueytown. The meet-and-greet occasion welcomed the public to visit with public officials, community partners, elected leaders, police officers and firefighters....

Alabama Power offices, online accounts down through Sept. 7 for system update

Alabama Power business offices are closed and online account access is unavailable through Monday, Sept. 7, while the company completes a system update that began Aug. 31, according to the company. Customers can still make payments through the company’s online guest payment service or at authorized payment locations, and the company says bill due dates...

A chat with Mona Stephens, fundraising committee, A Heart for the Arts Mayor’s Ball

Diligent in all her work and responsibilities, Mona Stephens of Bessemer is a charming, lovely lady whose excellent organizational skills and assiduous nature always contribute to a successful event or enterprise. Originally from New Orleans, Mona has been a resident of Bessemer for 42 years. She taught at McAdory, Pittman and Alliance schools in the...

Lt. Warren Hughes Named 2026 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

A true gentleman policeman, Lt. Warren Hughes of the Bessemer Police Department was recently named the 2026 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. The Bessemer Area Chamber of Commerce presented the award at the 35th annual Bessemer Business Awards and First Responders Gala, held at the Bessemer Civic Center. Hughes said, “I was surprised and...

Voter Turnout Low for Bessemer Municipal Election

A small percentage of voters turned out on Tuesday, Aug. 25, for the Bessemer municipal election. Of Bessemer’s 17,547 registered voters, only 22 percent deemed it important enough to go vote. The result was that only 3,800 citizens voted. In the race for Bessemer mayor, incumbent Mayor Kenneth E. Gulley earned 1,809 votes and Louise...

Many’ Janay Weems, child care program director at Bessemer's Legacy YMCA.(above)

‘A Passion Encouraging Many’

Many’ Janay Weems, child care program director at Bessemer’s Legacy YMCA.(above) Mini high-fives, simple words of encouragement like “You’re going to be great” and small but large heys are how Janay Weems is making a difference in children’s lives. Learning that it’s not all about self is one life lesson that led Weems to Bessemer’s...

Sewage seen bubbling from Second Alley North manhole

Just last weekend, this reporter was contacted with news of raw sewage seen bubbling out of a manhole in downtown Bessemer. The manhole is located in Second Alley North, which intersects with 17th Street North. The report was immediately investigated. Remnants of toilet paper were seen, along with water bubbling and flowing from the manhole....

Southern Academy dove shoot fundraiser set for Sept. 12

The Southern Academy Booster Club will hold its Dove Shoot fundraiser Saturday, Sept. 12, hosted by Alan Hoggle. Lunch will be served at 11 a.m., and the shoot begins at noon. Spots are $200 each, with 35 available, and a spot is secured when payment is received. Sign-ups are being taken through SignUpGenius, with the...

HCSD reports arrests for FTA, theft, prison contraband