Big News for Wes Allen's Lt. Gov. Bid!

The Business Council of Alabama (BCA) is throwing its support behind Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen for Lieutenant Governor! ProgressPAC, the BCA’s political muscle, made the announcement, highlighting Allen’s dedication to election security, smart spending, and cutting through government red tape for businesses.

Why the BCA is Backing Allen

"Wes Allen gets it – a streamlined government helps businesses thrive," says ProgressPAC Chairman Kevin Savoy. "As Secretary of State, he's already made huge strides in election security, ditching unnecessary regulations, and slashing spending. We're confident he'll bring that same pro-business, get-it-done attitude to the Lieutenant Governor's office."

Allen's Track Record

Since taking office in 2023, Allen has been laser-focused on fortifying election integrity and trimming government fat. He pulled Alabama out of ERIC, launched the Alabama Voter Integrity Database, and championed laws requiring paper ballots and banning internet access for voting machines. He also supports banning ranked-choice voting and absentee ballot harvesting.

Alignment with Business Interests

Helena Duncan, president and CEO of the BCA, said Allen's values perfectly match their priorities. "Wes Allen is a proven leader with strong principles," Duncan noted. "His commitment to accountability, fiscal responsibility, and smaller government will be a huge asset to Alabama as Lieutenant Governor."

Allen's Response

Allen expressed his gratitude, saying, "I'm honored to have the backing of the Business Council of Alabama. We share a common vision: making Alabama the absolute best place to work, live, and raise a family."

Before the Secretary of State Gig

Prior to his role as Secretary of State, Allen served as Pike County probate judge and represented his district in the Alabama House of Representatives.

Alabama Politics: This Week's Hot Takes!

Who's got the right angle on that Minnesota shooting? Senator Tuberville (R-Auburn) or ex-Senator Doug Jones (D-Mountain Brook)? It's a showdown of perspectives!

Venezuela's Troubles: Where Next?

After the Venezuela attack, are we looking at Greenland, Cuba, or maybe Colombia as the next hotspot? The geopolitical crystal ball is getting cloudy!

Lottery Fever: A Real Election Issue?

And seriously, are Alabama voters really fired up about the lottery? Let's get real about what's moving the needle!

Find all this and more on Alabama Politics This Week, hitting your TV, radio, and online feeds across the state!

Heads Up: Mecca Musick is running the show over at 256 Today. Don't Miss: Dale Jackson is dropping knowledge at Yellowhammer News and rocking the airwaves on WVNN from 5-9 a.m. weekdays.

Ainsworth Names Rowe Chief of Staff

Get ready for a shake-up in the Lt. Governor's office! Will Ainsworth announced that Connie Rowe, former State Rep, is stepping up as his new Chief of Staff. This comes after Catherine Gayle Fuller moved on to the private sector after dedicated service.

Back to the Capitol!

Lawmakers are heading back to Montgomery bright and early this Tuesday. The Alabama Legislature is kicking off its 2026 regular session, which marks the final year of their current term. Expect some fireworks!

A Veteran Takes the Helm

"Connie Rowe brings serious experience to the table," Ainsworth said. "She's got the leadership chops needed to keep my team on track." He also gave a big shout-out to Catherine Gayle, wishing her all the best in her new gig.

Rowe's Ready to Roll

Rowe's no stranger to Ainsworth's crew. After serving two terms in the Alabama House representing Walker County, she joined Ainsworth's office as a top advisor.

"From the start, Lt. Gov. Ainsworth vowed to have the most active and engaged office in the state," Rowe declared. "I'm committed to helping him make that happen!" Get ready for a busy year, folks!

A Background in Blue

Before hitting the Legislature, Rowe made her mark in law enforcement. She broke barriers as the first female investigator in the Walker County District Attorney's Office and later became Jasper's first female police chief. Talk about a trailblazer!

Rising Star in Montgomery

In Montgomery, Rowe quickly became a respected leader within the Republican Caucus, even becoming the first woman elected as Vice Chair of the Alabama House Republican Caucus. Impressive!

Moonshine, Mayhem, and Alabama's "Official Spirit"

Ever heard of Clyde May? This ain't your average whiskey tale. It all started with a legendary Bullock County moonshiner from the 1940s who did some time at Maxwell for his craft. Fast forward to 2001, and his son, Kenny May, kicks off Clyde May's whiskey company in Union Springs.

From Kentucky to Conecuh Ridge... Maybe?

Now, here's a twist: the whiskey was actually distilled in Kentucky, but supposedly made with Conecuh Ridge spring water trucked all the way from Alabama!

The "Official State Spirit" Drama

In 2004, things got wild. The Democrat-led Legislature declared Conecuh Ridge Alabama Fine Whiskey the "Official State Spirit." But Governor Bob Riley, a teetotaler, vetoed it! No worries, the Democrats overrode him, and the resolution stuck.

Trouble Brewing for Kenny May

But the plot thickens! In December 2004, Kenny May was arrested for selling liquor without a license, hoarding it in a dry county, and selling to a minor. He pled guilty. Whoops!

"Official Spirit" Banished?

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board tried to revoke Conecuh Ridge's distribution license, threatening to banish the "Official Spirit" from Alabama stores.

A Legacy Lives On

After Kenny's guilty plea, the House tried to repeal the "Official State Spirit" title, but it failed in the Senate. So, technically, it's still the "Official State Spirit!" Kenny May passed in 2016.

Clyde May's Today

Now owned by a New York company, Clyde May's whiskey and bourbon are sold nationwide. The "Alabama-style" whiskey features a special ingredient: dried apples, giving it a unique apple/cinnamon twist. Love it or hate it, this whiskey definitely has a fascinating, and maybe a little controversial, political past!

Budget Battles Begin: Who's King of Goat Hill?

As the legislative session kicks off, all eyes are on the budget, as usual. But this year, education funding might not flow as freely as it has in the past. Get ready for some serious scrambling!

The Community College Surge

The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) is poised to come out on top in the higher education funding fight, and rightfully so! They're quietly becoming the engine for job creation and workforce development across the state.

ACCS: The New Political Giant

Under Chancellor Jimmy Baker's leadership, the ACCS has become a political powerhouse, impacting 25 communities statewide. Technical and job-related education is now recognized as key to Alabama's growth, and local legislators know that supporting their community college is crucial for their districts.

Local Focus, Big Impact

Why the ACCS dominance? Every major legislative leader's top priority is their local community college.

• Senator Arthur Orr (Decatur) champions Calhoun Community College, a hub for growth in the Decatur/Huntsville area.
• Representative Danny Garrett (Trussville) sees Jeff State as vital as UAB.
• Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (Rainsville) prioritizes Northeast Alabama Community College and Snead State.
• Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston (Scottsboro) shares Ledbetter's focus.
• Senator Garlan Gudger (Cullman) backs Wallace Community College, a major employer.
• The Wiregrass delegation unites to support Wallace Community College in Dothan, crucial for healthcare.
• Bevill State in Walker County remains essential for job creation.
• The Mobile delegation champions Bishop State for shipbuilding workforce training.
• Baldwin County's delegation recognizes Coastal Community College's rapid growth.

The Bottom Line

It's all about local politics, folks! The Community College System is positioned to be the king of Goat Hill when it comes to higher education funding.

Explore Alabama Through the Eyes of a Pioneer!

Get ready to step back in time and rediscover Alabama's wild beauty! Back in the late 1700s, explorer William Bartram was one of the first to document the incredible landscapes and critters of our state. Now, Alabama State Parks is teaming up with Auburn University to bring his adventures to life!

Bartram's Alabama Adventure: A Traveling Exhibit

Starting at Lake Guntersville State Park (on display until Feb 1, 2026!), a special exhibit will be making its way to 12 Alabama State Parks. Prepare to be amazed by Bartram's discoveries and learn about the natural wonders he encountered.

More Than Just History: It's an Experience!

"Alabama State Parks are living classrooms," says Renee Raney, Alabama State Parks’ Chief Naturalist. It's all about connecting with nature and experiencing the landscapes that shaped Bartram's work. Imagine walking the same trails and seeing the same sights he did over 250 years ago!

"In the Footsteps of Bartram": Get Hands-On!

This isn't just a museum exhibit. Get ready for guided hikes, kayaking trips, nature journaling, and more! Experience Alabama's nature in a whole new light.

See the Parks Differently!

Bartram's writings encourage us to really see the details – the texture of the bark, the scent of the wildflowers, the sound of the frogs. He gives us a lens of wonder, showing us how our parks are both natural sanctuaries and living history books.

Eagle Viewing and Bartram: A Double Dose of Awesome!

If you're heading to Lake Guntersville State Park, you can also enjoy peak eagle-viewing season! It's a win-win.

Paddle "America's Amazon"!

Want to really explore Bartram's path? The Bartram Canoe Trail through the Mobile-Tensaw Delta is a must. Explore the "America's Amazon" and discover a world of rare plants and animals.

The Adventure Continues!

The Bartram exhibit will be traveling to these parks: Gulf State Park (Feb 6-28), Meaher State Park (March 3-3, Rickwood Caverns State Park (April 2-23), DeSoto State Park (April 29-May 28), Chewacla State Park (June 3-24), Monte Sano State Park (July 1-29), Joe Wheeler State Park (Aug 4-18), Cheaha State Park (Sept 1-22), Lakepoint State Park (Oct 1-23), Oak Mountain State Park (Oct 27-Nov 3, and Wind Creek State Park (Dec 3-Jan 15, 2027).

Trojans Nab Offensive Guru!

Hold on to your helmets, ChumCity! The Troy Trojans just supercharged their offense by snagging Adam Austin as their new Offensive Coordinator. Coach Gerad Parker has himself a game-changer!

From FCS Domination to FBS Dreams

Austin comes to Troy fresh off an absolutely dominant run at Tarleton State. We're talking about the best offense in the FCS, folks. His Texans were lighting up the scoreboard, averaging a mind-blowing 42.4 points per game. Pass? Run? They did it all, racking up nearly 200 yards on the ground and over 260 through the air.

Parker's Pumped

"We are beyond excited to welcome Adam," Coach Parker said. He highlighted Austin’s track record of success and his ability to create an "explosive offense." Sounds like exactly what the Trojans need!

Austin's Ready to Rumble

Austin's just as amped to join the team. "I am thrilled to join the Troy University football family," he exclaimed, praising Parker's "visionary leadership" and the university's commitment to winning. He's aiming to help build a "championship-caliber" program – music to our ears!

Coaching Pedigree

Before tearing it up at Tarleton State, Austin honed his skills at Grambling State, Midwestern State, and Eastern Kentucky. This is his first shot at the FBS level, and he's hungry to make a splash. Get ready for some fireworks, Troy fans!

Birmingham's Own Christy Swaid Makes Waves (Literally!)

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity! Local legend Christy Swaid just snagged a Guinness World Record, adding another feather to her already impressive cap. This jet ski champion, stuntwoman, and entrepreneur is proving that age is just a number.

Record-Breaking Somersault

At 53 years young, Swaid is officially the oldest person to backward somersault on a personal watercraft! Talk about defying gravity (and expectations!).

A Legend in Her Own Right

But let's be real, Swaid is no stranger to success. She's got six jet ski world championship titles under her belt, was twice named "One of the Fittest Women in America," and is an inductee into the International Personal Watercraft Hall of Fame. Oh, and she holds the Pro Women’s Slalom world record too! NBD.

Overcoming Adversity

Swaid revealed that this incredible achievement followed a particularly tough year. In 2020, she tragically lost her mother, father, and former coach. She found herself in a slump until a jet skiing opportunity reignited her passion in 2024.

A Chance Encounter, a Bold Decision

A "chance encounter" with a jet ski backflip expert pushed her to try the daring stunt. "I was filled with anxiety and felt like a prisoner in a cage of fear," she explained. "So, I had to do something courageous to break free.”

Grit, Determination, and a Whole Lotta Awesome

The road to the record wasn't easy. It took 10 attempts, plus a few cuts and bruises, before she finally nailed that backward somersault in front of a cheering crowd at Lake Mitchell, just south of Birmingham!

Triumph!

"The spectators cheered. Swaid was exhausted and covered in blood and bruises, but happy.” Talk about earning that world record!

Inspiring Others

But the best part? Swaid's victory inspired her to start Checkered Flag Living, a foundation dedicated to promoting physical and mental health. Looks like this record-breaking journey is having a positive impact on more than just one person. Way to go, Christy!

River Fun Just Got Easier in North Alabama!

Get ready, Decatur! The Tennessee RiverLine just upped its game in Alabama, meaning more outdoor adventures are heading our way!

Decatur Morgan County Tourism is buzzing about TJ Johnson, the new Alabama-based program manager for the Tennessee RiverLine. This is HUGE!

What does this mean for us?

TJ’s job is all about hooking up with local groups and making sure everyone—residents and tourists alike—can easily enjoy our amazing river. Think kayaking, fishing, hiking...the works!

Big Bucks for Big Fun

Thanks to a hefty $750,000 Innovate Alabama grant, the University of North Alabama and the Tennessee RiverLine are teaming up to boost outdoor recreation, education, and even small businesses connected to the river. Cha-ching!

What's the Tennessee RiverLine Anyway?

It's a massive project aiming to create a seamless system of outdoor activities along the entire 652-mile Tennessee River. From Knoxville, Tennessee, all the way to Paducah, Kentucky, it's all about access, protecting the river, and helping river towns thrive.

Decatur's Winning!

Being right on the river puts Decatur in a prime spot to benefit from this outdoor recreation boom. With TJ on board, expect even better coordination and connection to exciting new opportunities. Get ready to explore!

Bowling Alone: Are We Losing Our Connection?

Remember Robert Putnam? Back in 2000, he noticed something weird: tons of people were bowling, but hardly anyone was joining bowling leagues. He figured it was a sign of something bigger - a decline in the human connection that makes communities thrive.

The Data Doesn't Lie

Putnam wasn't just guessing. He backed it up with research. Turns out, dinner parties, gym classes, clubs, church, even family dinners were all becoming less popular. We were losing our desire to hang out together.

Prophetic Observations

Here's the crazy part: this was before the pandemic, remote work, streaming, iPhones, and Pelotons! Putnam was onto something HUGE, but he had no idea how huge. He couldn't have predicted how these things would turbocharge our desire for isolation.

Technological Tides

Part of this is natural. Each generation seems less inclined to participate, thanks to tech and a growing need for self-sufficiency. Then came video games and DVD rentals, replacing actual social gatherings. Organized groups dwindled. Suburban sprawl separated people, reducing those chance encounters at the store or the ballgame.

Fast Forward to Today

Now, Putnam's observations seem spot-on. Those bowling leagues, clubs, and organizations haven't bounced back. Church attendance and civic participation are down. He might have even underestimated the shift away from connection. It's like we had a mild case of social anxiety, and the pandemic threw a massive wrench in it.

Lazy Days and F.O.G.O.

Let's be honest, we got lazy, and the pandemic made it worse. We used to suffer from F.O.M.O. (Fear of Missing Out). Now? It's F.O.G.O. (Fear of Going Out). Showering, getting dressed, leaving the house? Too much effort! Especially when you're not going to an office anyway.

Symptoms of Isolation

There are signs everywhere that this isolation virus is spreading. Alcohol consumption is way down. Some say we're finally realizing it's bad for us. Please! We've never been less healthy. The drop in drinking is a symptom of fewer opportunities to socialize.

Delivered to Your Door

Instead of going to the movies, we binge-watch Netflix. Meetings are on Zoom. Church is online with communion delivered. Dinner is a transaction – ordered online, dropped at the door, and they run like it's a prank.

Comfort in Isolation

We got comfortable at home, and we liked it. But like working from home, it's convenient, but not healthy. Tech has become an enabler, letting us isolate more and more.

Alone vs. Lonely

Being alone and being lonely look the same on the outside. One bowler is alone but content. The other is lonely and feeling inadequate. Aloneness is physical; loneliness is emotional.

Connection Lost?

We built technology that promised connection but delivered isolation. Bowling leagues are gone, movie theaters are empty, and families stare at screens. Would we be this isolated without the pandemic? Without modern technology?

The Solo Sport of Life

More time alone feeds on itself. Soon, it's your default. And before you know it, you're bowling alone, smoking a pack of cigs. Life (and bowling) were never meant to be solo sports.