Alabama Democrat Lawfare: Tuberville Target?

Is Alabama's political scene about to explode? Word on the street is that Democrats are turning up the heat. Are they aiming to sideline Senator Tommy Tuberville using legal maneuvers? We're diving deep into this brewing storm.

Lottery Bill: Clean or Crooked?

That "clean lottery" bill everyone's talking about? Hold on a sec! We're cracking it open to see if it's really as pure as they claim, or if it's a sneaky way to unleash gambling across the state. Get ready for the truth!

Minnesota Drawdown: Peace at Last?

Will the National Guard leaving Minnesota actually bring the peace we all crave? We're analyzing the situation to see if this move truly calms the waters.

Alabama Politics This Week: Stay Informed!

Tune in to "Alabama Politics This Week" on TV, radio, and online. We've got all the hot topics covered!

The Experts

Mecca Musick, CEO of 256 Today, keeps you in the loop. Dale Jackson, a Yellowhammer News thought leader, keeps the conversation alive on WVNN weekdays from 5-9 a.m.

Retail's Got Picks! Alabama Retail PAC Announces Endorsements

The Alabama Retail PAC, the political muscle behind the Alabama Retail Association, just dropped their endorsements for the upcoming 2026 elections. They're backing candidates across the board – from statewide bigwigs to judges, legislators, and those holding constitutional offices.

Why These Candidates?

According to the PAC, these folks understand the vital role retail plays in keeping Alabama's economy humming. They're all about creating a pro-business environment.

Retail: The Heartbeat of Alabama

"Retail is the heartbeat of Alabama’s economy, employing hundreds of thousands of Alabamians and serving every community," says Melissa Cross, chairman of the Alabama Retail Association. "We are proud to endorse candidates who recognize this vital contribution and will give retailers’ interests a fair hearing.”

The Endorsements

Here's a peek at who the Alabama Retail PAC is throwing their weight behind:

Constitutional Offices

• Tommy Tuberville — Governor (R-Auburn)
• Wes Allen — Lt. Governor (R-Troy)
• Caroleene Dobson — Secretary of State (R-Montgomery)
• Young Boozer — State Treasurer (R-Montgomery)
• Derek Chen — State Auditor (R-Montgomery)
• Jack Williams — Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries (R-Wilmer)

Judicial Races

• Justice Brad Mendheim — Alabama Supreme Court, Place 7 (R-Dothan)
• Judge Greg Shaw — Alabama Supreme Court, Place 8 (R-Vestavia Hills)
• Judge Ben Bowden — Court of Civil Appeals, Place 4 (R-Montgomery)
• Judge Matt Fridy — Court of Civil Appeals, Place 5 (R-Montevallo)
• Judge Mary Windom — Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 4 (R-Mobile)
• Judge Beth Kellum — Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 5 (R-Dothan)

State Senate

• Sen. Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman)
• Sen. Tim Melson (R-Florence)
• Sen. John Roberts (R-Mountain Brook)
• Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur)
• Sen. Matt Woods (R-Jasper)
• Sen. Larry Stutts (R-Tuscumbia)
• Sen. Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville)
• Sen. Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro)
• Sen. Wes Kitchens (R-Arab)
• Sen. Andrew Jones (R-Centre)
• Sen. Lance Bell (R-Pell City)
• Sen. Keith Kelley (R-Anniston)
• Sen. Randy Price (R-Opelika)
• Sen. April Weaver (R-Brierfield)
• Sen. Dan Roberts (R-Mountain Brook)
• Sen. J.T. “Jabo” Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills)
• Sen. Shay Shelnutt (R-Trussville)
• Sen. Rodger Smitherman (D-Birmingham)
• Sen. Merika Coleman (D-Birmingham)
• Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison (D-Birmingham)
• Sen. Gerald Allen (R-Tuscaloosa)
• Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Range)
• Sen. Robert Stewart (D-Selma)
• Sen. Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro)
• Sen. Kirk Hatcher (D-Montgomery)
• Sen. Will Barfoot (R-Pike Road)
• Sen. Jay Hovey (R-Auburn)
• Sen. Billy Beasley (D-Clayton)
• Sen. Donnie Chesteen (R-Geneva)
• Sen. Clyde Chambliss Jr. (R-Prattville)
• Sen. Josh Carnley (R-Ino)
• Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine)
• Sen. Vivian Figures (D-Mobile)
• Sen. David Sessions (R-Grand Bay)

State House

• Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville)
• Rep. Phillip Pettus (R-Killen)
• Rep. Ben Harrison (R-Elkmont)
• Rep. Kerry “Bubba” Underwood (R-Tuscumbia)
• Rep. Parker Moore (R-Hartselle)
• Rep. Danny Crawford (R-Athens)
• Rep. Andy Whitt (R-Harvest)
• Rep. Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle)
• Rep. Marilyn Lands (D-Huntsville)
• Rep. Heath Allbright (R-Huntsville)
• Rep. Cindy Myrex (R-Cullman)
• Rep. Greg Barnes (R-Rogersville)
• Rep. Tim Wadsworth (R-Arley)
• Rep. Leigh Hulsey (R-Helena)
• Rep. Bryan Brinyark (R-Northport)
• Rep. Jamie Kiel (R-Russellville)
• Rep. Laura Hall (D-Huntsville)
• Rep. James Lomax (R-Huntsville)
• Rep. Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville)
• Rep. Ritchie Whorton (R-Owens Cross Roads)
• Rep. Mike Kirkland (R-Scottsboro)
• Rep. Phillip Rigsby (R-Huntsville)
• Rep. Brock Colvin (R-Albertville)
• Rep. Jeana Ross (R-Guntersville)
• Rep. Mack Butler (R-Rainbow City)
• Rep. Mark Gidley (R-Hokes Bluff)
• Rep. Craig Lipscomb (R-Gadsden)
• Rep. Troy Stubbs (R-Wetumpka)
• Rep. Ben Robbins (R-Sylacauga)
• Rep. David Standridge (R-Hayden)
• Rep. Steve Hurst (R-Munford)
• Rep. Randy Wood (R-Anniston)
• Rep. Kristin Nelson (R-Dothan)
• Rep. Ginny Shaver (R-Leesburg)
• Rep. Chad Robertson (R-Heflin)
• Rep. Corley Ellis (R-Columbiana)
• Rep. Van Smith (R-Clanton)
• Rep. Arnold Mooney (R-Birmingham)
• Rep. Danny Garrett (R-Trussville)
• Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover)
• Rep. David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook)
• Rep. Mike Shaw (R-Hoover)
• Rep. Jim Carns (R-Vestavia Hills)
• Rep. Russell Bedsole (R-Alabaster)
• Rep. Allen Treadaway (R-Morris)
• Rep. Kelvin Datcher (D-Birmingham)
• Rep. Anthony Daniels (D-Huntsville)
• Rep. Neil Rafferty (D-Birmingham)
• Rep. Travis Hendrix (D-Birmingham)
• Rep. Ontario Tillman (D-Bessemer)
• Rep. Patrick Sellers (D-Birmingham)
• Rep. Rolanda Hollis (D-Birmingham)
• Rep. Mary Moore (D-Birmingham)
• Rep. Juandalynn Givan (D-Birmingham)
• Rep. Ron Bolton (R-Northport)
• Rep. Bill Lamb (R-Tuscaloosa)
• Rep. Norman Crow (R-Montgomery)
• Rep. Donna Givens (R-Loxley)
• Rep. Alan Baker (R-Brewton)
• Rep. Prince Chestnut (D-Selma)
• Rep. Thomas Jackson (D-Thomasville)
• Rep. Kelvin Lawrence (D-Hayneville)
• Rep. Christopher England (D-Tuscaloosa)
• Rep. Artis “A.J.” McCampbell (D-Demopolis)
• Rep. Curtis Travis (D-Tuscaloosa)
• Rep. Kenneth Paschal (R-Pelham)
• Rep. Reed Ingram (R-Mathews)
• Rep. Patrice McClammy (D-Montgomery)
• Rep. TaShina Morris (D-Montgomery)
• Rep. Kenyatté Hassell (D-Montgomery)
• Rep. Joe Lovvorn (R-Auburn)
• Rep. Chris Blackshear (R-Phenix City)
• Rep. Ed Oliver (D-Dadeville)
• Rep. Pebblin Warren (D-Tuskegee)
• Rep. Jeremy Gray (D-Opelika)
• Rep. Berry Forte (D-Eufaula)
• Rep. Rick Rehm (R-Dothan)
• Rep. Paul Lee (R-Dothan)
• Rep. Jeff Sorrells (R-Hartford)
• Rep. Jerry Starnes (R-Prattville)
• Rep. Marcus Paramore (R-Troy)
• Rep. Chris Sells (R-Greenville)
• Rep. Matthew Hammett (R-Dothan)
• Rep. Steve Clouse (R-Ozark)
• Rep. Jennifer Fidler (R-Fairhope)
• Rep. Frances Holk-Jones (R-Foley)
• Rep. Matt Simpson (R-Daphne)
• Rep. Adline Clarke (D-Mobile)
• Rep. Napoleon Bracy Jr. (D-Mobile)
• Rep. Sam Jones (D-Mobile)
• Rep. Mark Shirey (R-Mobile)
• Rep. Chris Pringle (R-Mobile)
• Rep. Shane Stringer (R-Citronelle)
• Rep. Barbara Drummond (D-Mobile)
• Rep. Margie Wilcox (R-Mobile)
• Rep. Chip Brown (R-Hollingers Island)

Why It Matters

"These candidates are familiar with the challenges facing Alabama’s retail industry and the broader business community," says Rick Brown, president of the Alabama Retail Association. "These candidates know that when retail succeeds, communities thrive.”

The Alabama Retail Association is all about representing retailers across the state, advocating on the legislative and regulatory issues that hit closest to home.

Happy Birthday, Steve Clouse!

Our friend Steve Clouse hits the big 7-0 this week, born on February 7, 1956! Let's all wish this good man a very Happy Birthday!

Ozark Born and Bred

Steve's an Ozark native who's been representing Dale and Houston Counties in the Alabama House for a whopping 32 years! That's dedication, folks! He was first elected back in 1994 at the young age of 38, and he's set to start his ninth term this year.

The Wiregrass Stalwart

He's not just the Dean of the Wiregrass delegation; he's its respected leader and heart and soul. Back in '94, Steve was the only Republican in the Wiregrass delegation. Times have changed!

Leading the Way

Currently, Steve chairs the House Transportation Utilities and Infrastructure Committee. Before that, he spent over a decade crafting the General Fund Budget as Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. Big responsibilities!

A Natural Politician

Steve’s always had a knack for Alabama politics. His first campaign slogan? "Put Clouse in the House." Classic! He's a true man of the House.

Ozark Through and Through

Steve's rooted deep in Ozark. He worked alongside his father, Jimmy Clouse, in the family oil business. He and his wife, Dianne, live right across from the First Methodist Church – talk about convenient! He parks his white truck right on Main Street, letting folks know he's always ready to help.

A True Public Servant

Small-town legislators hear it all, and Steve Clouse is always ready to lend a hand. He's fixed countless problems for the people of Dale County over the years. Alabama is a big front porch, and Steve is always on it.

A Lifelong Friend

This writer has known Steve his whole life. Their moms were best friends, and they practically grew up as brothers. They even have similar names! They pledged the same fraternity at the University of Alabama and had very similar voting records during their time in the House.

A Man of Integrity

Steve Clouse is one of the best men around. He's honest, he's got integrity, and he's a true friend. It's hard to believe he's turning 70! Alabama is a Big Front Porch.

Got a Call from "AL Creel"? It Could Be About Your Fishing Trip!

If you're an Alabama saltwater angler, don't be surprised if the University of South Alabama (USA) or "Alabama Creel" pops up on your caller ID. It's not a prank! The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is working with USA to gather data on fishing trips through the AL Creel survey. This info is super important for making decisions about how to manage our fisheries.

Why is this survey important?

Kevin Anson, MRD Director, says AL Creel is modeled after a similar, successful survey in Louisiana (LA Creel). The goal? To get AL Creel certified by NOAA Fisheries, just like LA Creel. This new survey builds on previous efforts to track how many anglers are out there and how often they're fishing, especially around Alabama's artificial reefs.

How does it work?

The AL Creel survey combines phone calls with dockside interviews. Anglers are randomly selected from license lists and asked about their recent fishing trips. Dockside surveys happen at boat ramps, marinas, and shore fishing spots to collect info on what folks are catching.

"We estimate trips, then estimate catches from different areas and fishing methods," Anson explains. This covers boat anglers, shore anglers, and state-licensed charter boats. Federal charters are tracked separately.

AL Creel vs. the Federal Survey

Right now, AL Creel is running alongside the federal recreational angler survey to compare results. Anson hopes AL Creel will eventually replace the federal survey, which can be a drain on resources and might not be as accurate.

"AL Creel asks about trips within the last 12 days, which should be more accurate than the federal survey's two-month recall period," Anson said. Plus, AL Creel uses phone calls, while the federal survey relies on mailing lists.

Potential Changes to Fishing Rules?

Anson mentioned the federal survey, MRIP, has had some accuracy issues, potentially overestimating catches. They're working on fixing this, but it means re-evaluating past data. This could lead to changes in seasons, sizes, and bag limits down the road.

Your Participation Matters!

The ultimate goal is for AL Creel to get the NOAA seal of approval, just like Louisiana. This will allow Alabama to use it for both state and federal fisheries management.

Anson urges everyone who gets a call to participate. "We ask everyone who is contacted to participate, whether you fish a little or fish a lot," he said. "We’re sampling a portion of the entire license database, so we need to get a good idea about who is fishing and who is not fishing. Those people who don’t fish are equally as important as those who do fish."

Red Snapper Update & Sheepshead Fishing

Anson also shared that anglers harvested about 623,029 pounds of red snapper in 2025, slightly under the quota. And speaking of fishing, sheepshead are hot right now! The bag limit was reduced to eight fish last year, and it seems to be helping keep the fishery healthy. Tight lines, ChumCity!

Alabama Takes Flight at Singapore Airshow!

Alabama's aerospace industry is reaching new heights, and our business recruiters are ready to showcase its success on the world stage! This week, a team from the Alabama Department of Commerce jets off to the Singapore Airshow, the 10th edition of this massive biennial event.

Reaching Across the Globe

While Alabama has long had a presence at the Paris and Farnborough Air Shows, this is the first year for the state to exhibit in Singapore! "More than 300 aerospace companies call Alabama home, and those numbers grow each year," says Bob Smith, the Commerce Department’s aerospace specialist. We're spreading the word about our state's aerospace triumphs!

Singapore Spotlight: Space, Military, and More!

The Singapore Airshow is a comprehensive showcase covering everything from space to military aviation, with a strong focus on maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations. Smith has a busy schedule of meetings planned, targeting sectors like drones and UAVs.

Aerospace: Alabama's Economic Engine

Aerospace isn't just cool; it's a major driver of foreign investment and high-quality jobs in Alabama! Last year saw a flurry of activity, including Airbus celebrating a new A320 final assembly line and marking a decade in Mobile, and over $139 million in capital investment and 767 new job commitments in the aerospace sector, and eight defense industry announcements for a total of $122 million in capital investment and nearly 1,700 career opportunities.

Big Names, Big Impact

Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and GE Aerospace are just a few of the giants that call Alabama home, producing everything from weapons systems to rockets. From 2020 to 2024, Alabama amassed $8 billion in aerospace exports! Overall, aerospace and defense contribute about 20% of Alabama’s GDP.

A Global Stage for Alabama Companies

Beau Lore, Senior International Project Manager, emphasizes the importance of the Singapore Airshow as "Asia’s most influential airshow." Three Alabama companies – Cummings Aerospace, FMS Aerospace, and Phoenix Global Aviation Services – will be co-exhibitors, showcasing their expertise to a global audience.

Supporting Alabama Business

Amanda Parsons, president of Phoenix Global Aviation Services, is excited to participate, emphasizing that their presence is only possible because of the support of the Alabama Department of Commerce. "We wouldn’t have the opportunity to attend the Singapore Airshow this early in our company’s life without the Alabama Department of Commerce.”

Soaring Success

Last year's aerospace highlights included new facilities and expansions across the state. The Commerce team is heading to Singapore ready to add more success stories to the list. Stay tuned for updates on Alabama's aerospace adventures!

Iron Bowl Stars Shine Bright at Super Bowl LX!

Get ready, Alabama! Super Bowl LX is set to be an Iron Bowl reunion as the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks clash!

Crimson Tide Representin'

The Patriots boast three former Alabama players. Keep an eye on defensive lineman Christian Barmore, now a gridiron superstar. Linebacker Anfernee Jennings is ready to rumble, and tight end CJ Dippre's got Patriot pride too.

War Eagle on the Big Stage

Auburn's got skin in the game as well! Cornerback Carlton Davis III anchors the Patriots defense. Meanwhile, for the Seahawks, pass rusher Derick Hall is tearing it up!

Seahawks Packed with SEC Speed

Don't blink, or you'll miss these former Alabamians and Auburnites! Josh Jobe patrols the secondary and Jarran Reed brings the pressure on the defensive line. Robbie Ouzts will be busting heads, and Jalen Milroe has been on standby, ready to make a splash if needed.

Sunday's game is gonna be electric! Bama and Auburn fans, get ready to cheer!

Governor Ivey Shakes Up the Courts!

Hold on to your gavels, folks! Governor Kay Ivey just announced a fresh batch of appointments, filling six key roles across the state, including some big changes for our judicial system.

Baldwin County Gets a New Circuit Judge

Ashley W. Siebert of Fairhope is stepping up to the plate as Circuit Judge in Baldwin County! Siebert, an Auburn and Faulkner University Law grad, is taking over from the retiring Circuit Judge Jody Bishop, who dedicated a whopping 25 years to Baldwin County courts.

"Ashley Siebert has already proven herself on the bench," Governor Ivey stated, "and I'm confident she'll continue to serve Baldwin County with integrity."

Judge Siebert responded, "I'm honored and grateful for this opportunity! I look forward to continuing to serve Baldwin County."

Cullman County Welcomes New Circuit Judge

Over in Cullman County, J. Chad Floyd is the new Circuit Judge! Floyd, a University of Alabama and Mississippi College School of Law alumnus, replaces Circuit Judge Gregory Nicholas, who retired after 19 years of service.

Governor Ivey praised Floyd's "strong depth of knowledge of the law" and his "proven judicial experience."

Judge Floyd expressed his gratitude: "I am humbled by the confidence that Governor Ivey has placed in me and look forward to embracing this opportunity." He also acknowledged his predecessor, Judge Nicholas, for his honorable service to Cullman County.

More Appointments on Deck

In addition to these judicial appointments, Governor Ivey also announced appointments to the Historical Commission, Board of Home Medical Equipment, Board of Examiners for Dietetics and Nutrition Practice, and Perry County Revenue Commissioner. A busy day for the Governor's office!

Mobile's Mardi Gras: Where the Good Times Roll!

Fat Tuesday in Mobile is pure magic! Dauphin Street pulses with music, beads fly, MoonPies rain down, and shouts of "Throw me something!" echo between historic buildings. Elaborate floats and costumed krewe members roll through downtown, bringing a centuries-old tradition to life. This is the grand finale of Mobile's Mardi Gras, a celebration woven into the very fabric of the city. It’s often called the "birthplace of American Mardi Gras," and this carnival season is steeped in history and community.

A Celebration Takes Root

Mobile's Mardi Gras goes way back – over three centuries! In 1703, French settlers gathered at Fort Louis de la Louisiane to celebrate Mardi Gras, marking the first documented observance in what would become the United States. Led by Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville, they brought the pre-Lenten customs of their homeland to the new world, kicking off a tradition that's grown alongside the city.

Mystery, Tradition, and Spectacle

As the celebration evolved, secrecy and spectacle became key. By the early 1800s, mystic societies began organizing parades, throwing lavish balls, and creating symbolic floats. In 1813, Mobile introduced the Boeuf Gras tradition, parading a papier-mâché bull's head to herald Mardi Gras Day.

The Cowbellion de Rakin Society launched what's considered the first organized Mardi Gras parade in 1830, complete with decorated floats, cowbells, and satirical themes. This ushered in the modern era of Carnival in Mobile! Today, mystic societies keep the traditions alive, electing kings and queens and blending history, creativity, and pageantry in true Mobile style.

Joe Cain: The Savior of Mardi Gras

After the Civil War, Joe Cain revived Mardi Gras in Mobile. In 1866, he paraded through the streets dressed as a fictional Chickasaw chief named Slacabamorinico. This act of defiance helped restore Mardi Gras to the city during Reconstruction.

Cain's legacy lives on through Joe Cain Day, celebrated the Sunday before Fat Tuesday. The Joe Cain Procession honors history and community, making it a season favorite.

What Makes Mobile's Mardi Gras Special?

Beyond the parades, Mobile's Mardi Gras is defined by its rituals. King Cake appears everywhere, filled with cinnamon or cream cheese and topped with purple, green, and gold sugar. The hidden figurine brings the lucky finder the duty of buying the next cake!

Local businesses embrace the season, too. Restaurants plan menus around parade schedules, bars create Carnival-themed drinks, and storefronts deck out in purple, green, and gold. Mardi Gras shapes daily life throughout the city.

Mobile's throws are legendary! While beads and doubloons are common, Mobile is famous for its MoonPies, a tradition since the early 20th century. Millions are tossed from floats, along with stuffed animals, Conecuh Sausage, and other goodies. You never know what might come your way!

Fan Favorites and the Grand Finale

The Mystic of Time parade on the Saturday night before Fat Tuesday is known for its illuminated floats. Sunday brings daytime family-friendly parades, followed by Infant Mystics on Monday night, a parade steeped in tradition and humor.

Fat Tuesday unfolds in layers, culminating with the Order of Myths, whose symbolic battle between Folly and Death brings the season to a close. When the last float passes and midnight approaches, Mardi Gras gives way to Ash Wednesday, and the city exhales.

The Heartbeat of Mardi Gras

More than 300 years after its start, Mobile's Mardi Gras is deeply rooted in the community. It's a multi-week tradition shaped by generations of locals. Parade routes, King Cake recipes, throws, costumes – it's all inherited knowledge shared within families and neighborhoods.

Mardi Gras in Mobile belongs to the people who show up year after year. As the original home of Mardi Gras in America, the celebration endures because it's rooted in tradition and community. The heartbeat of Mardi Gras lives in Mobile, carried forward by the people who know it best and who continue to laissez les bons temps rouler!

Romance is in the Air, ChumCity!

February's here, and Alabamians are already dreaming of Valentine's Day dates. Lucky for us, our sweet home state is bursting with romantic spots!

Alabama Restaurant Makes National List!

Big news for foodies: Voyagers at Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach just snagged a spot on OpenTable's Top 100 Romantic Restaurants for 2026! (Yeah, 2026! Time travelers must love it!)

What Makes Voyagers So Special?

OpenTable's list is based on real diner reviews and reservation data. Restaurants are chosen for their awesome vibe, top-notch service, and memorable dining experiences.

About Voyagers

This Gulf-front gem serves up upscale coastal cuisine, specializing in fresh seafood, juicy steaks, and seasonal goodies. Think Gulf Coast flavors with locally sourced ingredients. Yum! Pro-tip: Book your table early, especially around holidays.

Love is All Around Alabama!

While Voyagers is the only Alabama spot on the national list this year, romantic dining options abound across the state. From Mobile and Orange Beach to Birmingham, Huntsville, and Montgomery, you're sure to find the perfect place for a Valentine's date!

Alabama Student Soars to New Heights!

Get ready to launch into orbit with the incredible story of Clayton Dalton, a small-town Alabama student who's making HUGE waves in the world of spaceflight and rocket engineering! This Sylvania High School senior is blasting off to a bright future, thanks to some seriously impressive aerospace achievements.

Keynote Scholarship Winner!

Clayton's stellar work has earned him a spot as a 2026 Keynote Scholarship runner-up from the National Space Club and Foundation. What does that mean? A cool $25,000 scholarship to fuel his aerospace engineering studies at Auburn University!

From Falcon Heavy to Rocketry Ace

Clayton credits a childhood love affair with the Falcon Heavy launch and countless visits to Space Camp for sparking his passion. He's not just dreaming big; he's backing it up with a resume that's out of this world! Think weather balloons launched with UAH, participation in the NASA TechRise Student Challenge, and a Level 1 High Power Rocketry certification.

Giving Back to the Next Generation

But Clayton's not just about personal achievement. He's all about inspiring the next generation of rocket scientists! He's dedicated to sharing his knowledge and passion, teaching others about the wonders of rockets and weather balloons.

Aiming for the Stars

This fall, Clayton's heading to Auburn to pursue his aerospace engineering dreams. He's got his sights set on a career in launch vehicle development, with the ultimate goal of working for NASA or a commercial space company. Keep your eyes on this one, ChumCity – he's going places!