Community News

Mayor of Blue Springs remembers Mrs. Sheppard

A staunch leader in Blue Springs, Voncille Hagler Sheppard, died at her home Sunday. She served on the town council and as the town clerk over a span of more than 50 years in addition to contributing her time and talents in support of activities and events. Mayor Allen Knight issued the following statement as a tribute to the life and legacy of Mrs. Sheppard: “It is with profound sadness that I share the news of the passing of former Councilwoman Voncille Sheppard. Voncille was a steadfast advocate for our community and a respected leader whose legacy of service leaves a lasting impact. Her 50+ years on the council and serving as town clerk were marked by compassion, dedication, and deep commitment to the people she served. She brought heart and wisdom to every conversation, always striving to uplift and unite those around her.

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The National Society Sons and Daughters of the Pilgrims and/or National Society Sons and Daughters of Antebellum Planters 1907-1861

The National Society Sons and Daughters of the Pilgrims and/or National Society Sons and Daughters of Antebellum Planters 1907-1861 members donated books to the South Carolina Department of Archives and History during their South Carolina Genealogical Society, Inc. 52nd Annual Summer Workshop on July 12. Pictured left to right are Nancy Floyd, Denise Lane, Pilgrims 2nd Deputy GG Mary Armstrong, Barbara Crawford, Pilgrims GG and Planters HGG Deborah W. Hicks, Deputy Director of SC Archives Patrick McCawley, Suzanna Rawlins, Julie Palmer Hesler, Renee Willingham Hamilton, and seated, Beverly Whittington.

Read MoreThe National Society Sons and Daughters of the Pilgrims and/or National Society Sons and Daughters of Antebellum Planters 1907-1861

Show Me Your Shoes

Queens representing Barbour County and Eufaula made an impression over the weekend when they sported their creations in the Show Me Your Shoes parade in downtown Dothan.

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Local AME churches participate in statewide tour

Local African Methodist Episcopal (AME) churches welcomed Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Jr., Presiding Prelate of the Ninth Episcopal District, on Tuesday, June 10, during his visit as part of “The Work Is All Divine Tour.” Since beginning the tour in May, Bishop McAllister has traveled across Alabama, visiting more than 200 AME congregations, with plans to visit all 250-plus churches in the state in 15 days. His commitment comes shortly after his election as the 144th bishop of the AME Church in August 2025.

Read MoreLocal AME churches participate in statewide tour