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.

Janus and the Two Faces of January

The Roman god Janus, sporting one face gazing backward and another looking forward, perfectly embodies the spirit of January. It's a time for reflection and anticipation, a blend of memories and hopes.

Remembering January 2025

In my first sermon of the year, I reflected on how January 2025 will be etched in our memories, bookended by the passing of one president and the inauguration of another.

Honoring Jimmy Carter

Shortly after Christmas 2024, we mourned the loss of former President Jimmy Carter, who'd celebrated his 100th birthday just months prior. His funeral, a testament to his humble life, was held at the National Cathedral. His and Rosalynn Carter's final resting place in Plains, Georgia, welcomed the public last summer.

Carter's Servant Heart

A devout Baptist deacon and Bible teacher, Carter regularly led adult classes at Maranatha Baptist Church. His lessons were compiled in Andrew Greer's book, "More Than A President—Sundays With Jimmy Carter." The Carters were also active volunteers at their church, with Mrs. Carter cleaning and President Carter mowing the lawn – a president mowing with Secret Service detail!

A New Chapter: Inauguration Day

Just days after Carter's funeral, a new president was sworn in. Like Grover Cleveland before him, Trump secured a non-consecutive term, becoming both the 45th and 47th President.

Contrasting Leadership Styles

President Trump, known for his "proud," "brash," and "unfiltered" demeanor, presents a stark contrast to the humility of Jimmy Carter.

A Common Thread: Prayer for Leaders

Despite their differences, both men share one crucial thing: they are elected officials whom Christians are called to pray for.

The Power of Prayer

Oral Roberts wisely stated, "No Christian has a right to criticize the president until he first prays for the president." This sentiment echoes the importance of prayer for our leaders.

Biblical Principles for Political Engagement

While the Bible doesn't offer a detailed political roadmap, Paul emphasized obedience to civil authority, paying taxes, and praying for those in power (Romans 13, 1 Timothy 2).

A Call to Prayer

Church leaders should consistently offer prayers for our president and other leaders, reminding us all to include them in our daily devotions.

Dilfer Digs at UAB After Return to High School

Former UAB Blazers head coach Trent Dilfer is back in his comfort zone, leading a high school program designed for victory. But even from the high school sidelines, UAB is still on his mind.

A Rocky Tenure in Birmingham

Remember when UAB plucked Dilfer straight from high school, despite his lack of college experience? Well, the experiment crashed and burned. A dismal 9-21 record in two and a half seasons led to his mid-season firing in 2025. Ouch.

Blaming the System

Dilfer recently opened up, suggesting UAB's lack of success under his watch stemmed from a financial commitment to winning. In his view, they just weren't keeping up in the NIL era.

He stated that he feels Lipscomb cares about winning as much as he does. He couldn’t say that about his last place of employment.

Dilfer added that he’s a better man than when he left. College football broke him in a good way. He had recruited and developed 14 players that went on to play at bigger programs like Ole Miss and Alabama.

Sour Grapes?

While NIL plays a role, implying UAB isn't serious about winning is a stretch. They've had success both before and after Dilfer's stint. His teams were abysmal on the road, going 0-15.

The Last Laugh?

The game after Dilfer's departure? UAB secured their first ranked win in half a decade and capped the season with a road victory. Proving it can be done. It seems Dilfer just wasn't the right fit. It seems like he might see things a little differently after his stint in charge.

Moore Aims to Ditch "Slow-Pour" Gas Cans!

Rep. Barry Moore (R-AL) is taking on the Washington regulatory beast with a new bill that could spell the end for those frustrating "slow-pour" gas cans we all love to hate!

The Freedom to Fuel Act

Moore, who's also eyeing Alabama's Senate seat in '26, teamed up with Rep. Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) to introduce the "Freedom to Fuel Act." He says it's all about bringing common sense back to the federal rule-making process, stopping the EPA from imposing unnecessary rules on something as basic as a gas can.

Fighting the Frustration

"For years, folks have been stuck with these awkward, spill-prone gas cans," Moore stated. These things break easily and make simple tasks way harder."

The Root of the Problem

This whole mess started with a 2007 EPA rule that put super-strict limits on fuel emissions for any fuel container made after January 1, 2009. The result? Complicated, vent-less designs that make fueling a nightmare.

Ending the Red Tape

Moore adds that Republicans are "committed to cutting red tape" and "restoring common sense." The "Freedom to Fuel Act" is one more step in eliminating those outdated rules.

What's the Fix?

The bill would change the Clean Air Act's definition of "consumer or commercial product" and make sure gas cans aren't subject to those unnecessary emission controls.

"Nonsense" Needs to End

Fedorchak chimed in, "Who hasn't had gas spill everywhere because of the terrible nozzles? This resulted in a frustrating design. I'm glad to work with Rep. Moore."