Remembering Alabama's Political Giants: A Fond Farewell

As has been my tradition for over two decades, let's take a moment to honor some remarkable Alabama political figures we lost this past year. They left an undeniable mark on our state.

George McMillan: A True Gentleman

Former State Senator and Lt. Governor George McMillan of Birmingham passed away at 81. George was the kind of guy who lit up a room – a true people person. It seemed like everyone who met George instantly liked him. He blazed onto the political scene, winning a State Senate seat in '74 and becoming Lt. Governor in '78. Remember that nail-biter of a race against George Wallace for Governor in '82? Many thought McMillan would usher in a "New South" era for Alabama.

Mac Gipson: Tire King and Public Servant

Former State Representative and ABC Administrator Mac Gipson passed in July at 89. Mac represented Autauga and Elmore Counties for 16 years. Governor Robert Bentley tapped him to lead the Alabama Beverage Control Board, where he stayed until retirement in 2022 under Governors Bentley and Ivey. Before his public service, Mac founded Gipson’s Tire stores – a true entrepreneur. He was a good man and a reliable friend in the legislature.

Ralph Burke: Educator and Advocate

Another legislative friend, Ralph Burke, passed away in July way too soon at only 65. Ralph represented DeKalb County in the House from '83 to '98. An educator by trade, he was a proud Jacksonville State alum and lifelong supporter.

Bill Drinkard: A Versatile Leader

William “Bill” Drinkard passed away in July at 79. Bill served Etowah and St. Clair Counties in both the House and Senate from '78 to '90. He was a jack-of-all-trades, with experience as a store owner, hospital administrator, and real estate developer. A truly diligent legislator.

Julian McPhillips: Champion of Justice

Julian McPhillips, a renowned lawyer and Democratic leader for over four decades, passed in Montgomery at 78. Born into a family with deep Alabama roots, he graduated from Princeton and Columbia Law School before returning to Alabama to work for Attorney General Bill Baxley. A progressive voice in Montgomery, always fighting for justice.

Tom Walker: The Visionary Behind American Village

Tom Walker, Founder and President Emeritus of the American Village in Montevallo, passed away in September. Tom had a vision to preserve American History, and was a good man! The American Village stands as his remarkable legacy.

Bill Cabaniss: Republican Pioneer

Former Jefferson County State Senator Bill Cabaniss passed away at 86. A Republican long before it was trendy, Bill was a pioneer of the modern Republican Party in Alabama. President George H.W. Bush appointed him ambassador to the Czech Republic.

Dr. Annette Shelby: Educator and Partner

Dr. Annette Shelby, wife of retired Senator Richard Shelby, passed away in July at 86. A distinguished educator and tenured professor, she was also an integral part of Senator Shelby’s career.

Ann Bedsole: Trailblazing Legislator

Ann Bedsole passed on December 1 at 95 in Mobile. Bedsole was the first Republican woman elected to both the Alabama House and Senate. A true trailblazer and a woman of her word.

We lost some truly great Alabamians this year. They will be missed.

Tide Rolls Over Wildcats in SEC Opener!

Saturday's SEC kickoff was sweet for Alabama, leaving Kentucky licking their wounds! The Wildcats roared to a 5-0 start, giving Bama fans flashbacks to that Rose Bowl scare against Indiana.

Bama Bites Back!

But unlike that New Year's Day nightmare, Alabama wasn't having it! The Tide unleashed a 9-0 run, snatching the lead and never looking back.

Dominance Displayed

Alabama stretched their lead to a whopping 21 points! Kentucky tried to claw their way back, but the Tide's dominance was undeniable. Halftime? 50-34 Bama! Final score? A resounding 89-74 victory!

History Made!

This win wasn't just another W – it was historic! For the FIRST TIME EVER, Alabama has conquered Kentucky four times in a row! Kentucky's last triumph over the Crimson Tide was way back in February 2024.

Looking Ahead

No. 14 Alabama boasts an impressive 11-3 record (1-0 in the SEC). Next up, they face #11 Vanderbilt in Nashville on Wednesday, January 7 at 7 p.m. CST. Watch out, Vandy, the Tide is rolling!

About the Author

Jim Zig Zeigler is a Yellowhammer News contributing writer. He focuses on the bright side of Alabama: its people, happenings, and notable passings. A former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner, you can connect with him at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.

Palm Beach Summit: A United Front Emerges!

Guess what happened just before 2026 kicked off? Big names from America's evangelical Christian world and Jewish leaders jetted off to sunny Palm Beach, Florida! Their mission? To strategize how to defend America, Israel, and, well, the entire planet from radical Islamists.

Netanyahu Joins the Fray

Adding some serious star power, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu himself joined the discussions! Pastor Travis Johnson of Pathway Church in Mobile was also there, and he spilled the beans on what went down.

Straight From the Source

Forget pundit opinions – this is straight from Pastor Johnson himself:

"Yesterday in Palm Beach, as pastors and Christian leaders sat with Prime Minister Netanyahu, we made it unmistakably clear: We stand with the Prime Minister and Israel. Period. No equivocation."

And Netanyahu's response? Powerful! He affirmed his support for America and persecuted Christians worldwide.

A True Alliance Takes Shape

Pastor Johnson highlighted this as a "profound moment" and a "vital alliance." It's about time the fog lifted from those influencers who downplay the Islamist threat.

Facing the Threat Head-On

Let's be real: radical Islam and anti-Jewish voices have numbers and funding on their side. But some American influencers who used to back the grassroots movement are revealing their true colors. Their shift against evangelical Christians? It's an attack on freedom!

Standing Strong Together

Despite rising anti-Jewish sentiment and attacks on conservatism, Christians, and freedom globally, Israel and evangelical Christians stand together, supporting each other wherever terror strikes.

Netanyahu's Powerful Words

But don't just take his word for it. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated:

"Israel is joining an emerging alliance of countries that support Christian communities around the world, beleaguered communities who deserve our help… In Africa, with intel, in the Middle East, with a lot of means that I won’t itemize each one. But this is what our agenda is, it’s a main part of our agenda, and it’s going to continue with greater force and greater might in this coming year.”

Prayers Needed

Will you join in praying for persecuted Christians and Jews worldwide? And will you pray against the schemes that target Christians and Jews in Africa, the Middle East, the US, and Israel?

Mission to Israel

Johnson also joined over a thousand Christian leaders on a mission to Israel back in December, including U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. It was the largest group of American Christian leaders ever to visit "the Holy Land" on such a mission, a "Friends of Zion" project.

Ambassadors for Israel

The trip, organized with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed to prep participants to be unofficial ambassadors for Israel.

United Against Antisemitism

The ultimate goal of the Palm Beach meeting? To unify and demonstrate unity between evangelical Christian leaders in America, Israel, and the Jewish people, and to squash any perception of division. They're taking a stand against the antisemitism lurking in certain university corners and parts of the Democrat party, standing firm against the lies and committed to the truth.

Big Help for Alabama Households!

Good news, ChumCity residents! Governor Kay Ivey just announced a whopping $43.8 million in grants to help low-income Alabama families with their home energy bills. This money will provide some much-needed relief during those scorching summers and freezing winters.

How the Funds Will Help

Eighteen community action agencies across the state will be distributing these funds to provide emergency assistance for heating and cooling costs. According to Governor Ivey, this will ensure help is available "to those who need it most during extreme weather."

Who's Eligible?

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is managed locally by these community action agencies. They'll be accepting applications from individuals and families who qualify. Priority is given to the lowest-income households, the elderly, people with disabilities, and families with young children.

Where's the Money Coming From?

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is handling the grant distribution, using funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, including supplemental funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

Contact Your Local Agency!

ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell emphasizes the state's commitment to supporting Alabamians in need. Check out the list below to find the agency serving your area! Remember, application periods are set locally, so the funds may not be immediately available.

• Community Action Agency of Northwest Alabama Inc.: $1.6 million. (Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale) 256-766-4330.
• Community Action Partnership of Huntsville/Madison and Limestone Counties Inc.: $2.9 million. (Limestone, Madison) 256-851-9800.
• Walker County Community Action Agency Inc.: $623,646. (Walker) 205-221-4010.
• Community Action of Etowah County Inc.: $1.1 million. (Etowah) 256-546-9271.
• Community Action Agency of Talladega, Clay, Randolph, Calhoun and Cleburne Counties: $2.46 million. (Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Randolph, Talladega) 256-352-6611.
• Community Action Partnership of Middle Alabama Inc.: $2.46 million. (Autauga, Chilton, Elmore, Shelby) 205-755-1204.
• Community Action Committee Inc. of Chambers-Tallapoosa-Coosa: $760,959. (Chambers, Coosa, Tallapoosa) 256-825-4287.
• Montgomery Community Action Committee and Community Development Corporation Inc.: $2.2 million. (Montgomery) 334-263-3474.
• Organized Community Action Program Inc.: $1.9 million. (Bullock, Butler, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Lowndes, Pike) 334-566-1712.
• Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama Inc.: $9.27 million. (Blount, Cherokee, DeKalb, Jackson, Jefferson, Marshall, St. Clair) 256-638-4430.
• Mobile Community Action Inc.: $3.8 million. (Mobile, Washington) 251-457-5700.
• Macon-Russell Community Action Agency Inc.: $881,019. (Macon, Russell) 334-727-6100.
• Pickens County Community Action Committee and Community Development Corporation Inc.: $202,227. (Pickens) 205-367-8166.
• Southeast Alabama Community Action Partnership Inc.: $2.27 million. (Barbour, Coffee, Geneva, Henry, Houston) 334-347-0881.
• Community Action Agency of South Alabama: $2.8 million. (Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Marengo, Monroe, Wilcox) 251-626-2646.
• Community Action Partnership of North Alabama Inc.: $2.4 million. (Cullman, Lawrence, Marion, Morgan, Winston) 256-355-7843 and dial 100.
• Community Service Programs of West Alabama Inc.: $4.27 million. (Bibb, Choctaw, Dallas, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Perry, Sumter, Tuscaloosa) 205-752-5429.
• Alabama Council on Human Relations Inc.: $1.79 million. (Lee) 334-821-8336.

Sourced from the Alabama Department of Community and Economic Affairs (ADECA).

Manufacture Alabama Backs Norman Crow for House District 63!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity! Manufacture Alabama, the big kahuna representing manufacturers and industrial employers in our state, has just thrown its weight behind Norman Crow in the upcoming special election for Alabama House District 63. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, January 13, 2026!

Why Crow?

Jon Barganier, President & CEO of Manufacture Alabama, said it best: "Alabama’s manufacturing success depends on leaders who listen and help create a competitive environment." They believe Norman Crow is that guy! He brings a fresh perspective, strong community roots, and a real understanding of how manufacturing strengthens local economies.

Crow's Impressive Resume

Crow isn't just some newcomer. He currently represents Tuscaloosa City Council District 3 and is the founder of D.T. Freight, LLC. Plus, he's got serious cred in economic development, having chaired the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority and served on the Alabama Workforce Council.

Crow's Priorities

So, what's Crow's plan? He's laser-focused on the things manufacturers need to thrive: fair regulations, affordable energy, and top-notch transportation and infrastructure. "Alabama’s manufacturing industries are the foundation of the state’s economy," Crow stated. "I will fight to make Alabama’s manufacturing sector the most competitive in America. I am honored to receive the endorsement of Manufacture Alabama.”

The Open Seat

This seat became available when former State Rep. Cynthia Lee Almond was appointed President of the Alabama Public Service Commission by Governor Kay Ivey. House District 63 covers parts of Tuscaloosa County, including the University of Alabama area. Get out and vote, ChumCity!

Sewell Slams Trump Over Venezuela Action!

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Birmingham) is throwing shade at former President Trump after a daring military operation nabbed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

What Went Down?

Apparently, Maduro and his wife were captured and arrested early Saturday after what Trump called a "large scale strike" by the U.S. military, boasting about the operation on Truth Social and claiming it was done with U.S. Law Enforcement.

Sewell's Strong Words

Sewell, a vocal critic of Trump's Venezuela policies since his second term began, didn't hold back in her official statement.

No Authority!

"There is no doubt that Nicolás Maduro is an illegitimate and corrupt leader, but President Trump does NOT have the authority to unilaterally invade a sovereign country, capture its leader, and haul them back to the United States," Sewell declared.

Risky Business

She slammed the move as reckless, saying it risks destabilizing the region, endangering troops, and dragging us into yet another unwanted regime-change war. Sewell echoed the common Dem sentiment that Congress should have been consulted before any attack.

Where's the Congressional Approval?

"The fact that he did so without even briefing Congress, let alone seeking congressional approval—as required by the Constitution—is extremely alarming and sets a dangerous precedent," she argued. "The Trump Administration must immediately explain to Congress and the American people why such an attack was justified and how it plans to ensure stability in the region."

Maduro's Legal Troubles

It's worth noting that Maduro isn't just any "foreign leader"—he's been federally charged since 2020, and the State Department even offered a reward for info leading to his arrest.

What's Next for Venezuela?

Trump says Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has been sworn in as the country's new leader, but also emphasized that the U.S. will be "running it with a group, and we're going to make sure it's run properly." Stay tuned, ChumCity citizens, this story is developing!

Sorrell Swerves Back to Auditor Race!

Hold the phone, ChumCity citizens! Andrew Sorrell, currently serving as State Auditor, has just thrown a curveball into the 2026 election season. After announcing a bid for Secretary of State back in February 2024, Sorrell declared this Monday he's switching gears and will instead seek re-election as State Auditor.

Why the Change of Heart?

"I can best serve my fellow Alabamians," Sorrell stated, "by giving them an experienced and committed state auditor." He emphasized his track record of protecting taxpayer dollars and vowed to continue fighting for accountability and conservative values. He's expected to officially qualify for re-election later today.

Donor Dispatch: A Thank You and a Twist

Sorrell also sent a note to his campaign donors, expressing gratitude for their support and excitement for the Secretary of State possibility. However, after discussions with his wife and consultants, he decided to stick with what he knows best.

Secretary of State Race: Dobson Now in the Lead?

With Sorrell bowing out of the Secretary of State showdown, Caroleene Dobson is now anticipated to be the frontrunner.

Auditor's Race Heats Up!

Back in the State Auditor arena, Sorrell isn't running unopposed. Derek Chen and Josh Pendergrass are also vying for the position.

Chen Ready to Deliver Results

Chen stated he's not running for Auditor as a fallback, and that he knew the office needed an upgrade three years ago and that he could provide it. He is looking forward to earning the peoples votes on Election Day.

The Alabama Republican Party primary is slated for May 19, 2026. Qualifying ends on January 23, so stay tuned for more election drama!

Crimson Tide's Rose Bowl Blues

Ouch! Alabama got shellacked by Indiana in the Rose Bowl, taking a 38-3 beating. It was their worst bowl loss ever! Some folks are already whispering about Coach Kalen DeBoer's future, but he's vowing to learn from the smackdown.

Southern Schools See Northern Surge

SEC schools are suddenly the cool kids for Northeastern undergrads! Applications are through the roof (up over 50% since 2019!), and enrollment's jumped over 90% since 2014. Is it the football, the sunshine, or that sweet Southern hospitality? Maybe all three!

Alabama's Tax System: A Hot Mess?

The Alabama Political Reporter is throwing shade on our tax system. They claim we're dead last in per capita revenue, at only $4,930. Apparently, it's all due to relying on "regressive" sales taxes. But wait, they're also pushing for more lottery, gambling, and weed taxes? Something smells fishy.

Alabama's 2026: Election Frenzy!

Hold on to your hats, folks! The 2026 elections are shaping up to be wild. We've got open races for governor and Senate, among others. Senator Tommy Tuberville is the GOP frontrunner for guv, facing off against Doug Jones. And don't even get us started on the Senate showdown between Barry Moore and Steve Marshall. Get ready for a brawl!

Rubio's Venezuela Game Plan

Secretary of State Marco Rubio says the U.S. won't be running Venezuela anytime soon. Instead, they're slapping an oil quarantine on sanctioned tankers to shake things up, crack down on drug trafficking, and (allegedly) help the average Venezuelan Joe. No expanded military action, he promises.

Protests Erupt Over Venezuela Action

Pathetic protests popped up all over Alabama, from Huntsville to Dothan, against the U.S. "invasion" of Venezuela and the capture of President Maduro. These groups, organized by the likes of Democratic Socialists of America and 50501, are screaming "War for Oil!" (totally bogus) and whining about no congressional approval (who needs it?).

Alabama Republicans Praise Maduro Capture

Alabama's GOP lawmakers are cheering President Trump's military op that nabbed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on narco-terrorism charges. They see it as a message to other baddies out there. But U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell is calling it reckless, unconstitutional, and destabilizing. Someone's not happy.

Yellowhammer State of Mind

For more of this kind of cutting-edge analysis, catch Dale Jackson on WVNN from 5-9 a.m. weekdays.

Congress Returns and Ready to Rumble!

Alright, ChumCity citizens! Holiday cheer is officially out the window as Congress storms back into Washington to tackle the second session of the 119th Congress. The Senate's already in session, and the House follows close behind, ready to vote tomorrow.

January's shaping up to be a pressure cooker! Lawmakers face a looming January 30th deadline to figure out government funding, and the agenda is already overflowing.

What's on Alabama's Congressional Mind?

We snagged some exclusive New Year's resolutions from Alabama's finest representatives. Here's the lowdown on their priorities for 2026:

Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn)

"Making Alabama and America more prosperous. I wish everybody the best. With the tariffs that President Trump put on... you're going to see the sky is the limit."

Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery)

"Get our finances in order, live healthier, and spend less time online. Congress must return to regular order, get our fiscal house in order, and restore accountability to government spending... I’ll keep working to make Alabama the best place to live, worship, work, and raise a family."

Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville)

"I pray that my work in Congress reflects the faith that guides my life, working diligently, listening carefully, and always putting Alabama first."

Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks)

"In 2026 I will be squarely focused on pursuing Alabama’s priorities, including passing the FY2027 NDAA to ensure a ready, capable, and lethal fighting force."

Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover)

"I don’t make resolutions, I set priorities. My priorities will be giving people more choice in their health care plans, lowering the cost of health insurance, bringing price transparency to health care, and eliminating our reliance on China."

Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise)

"My New Year’s resolution is to spend less time listening to bureaucrats, more time listening to the people of Alabama, and all of my time putting Alabama and America First."

Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville)

"My resolution for 2026 is simple: to continue turning conservative priorities into real results, champion North Alabama’s capabilities, and support the permanent relocation of U.S. Space Command headquarters to Redstone Arsenal."

Longtime Alabama Rep. Terri Collins Announces Retirement!

Big news from the Yellowhammer State! State Representative Terri Collins (R-Decatur), a fixture in the Alabama House since 2010, has announced she won't be seeking re-election in 2026.

A Fond Farewell

"Representing Morgan County for the past 16 years has been the honor of my life," Collins stated, adding she's ready to pass the torch to someone new. She departs feeling confident her efforts have made a real difference, citing achievements in protecting unborn life, improving public education, and expanding parental choice in education.

A Trailblazer

Collins was part of the game-changing freshman class that flipped the Legislature to Republican control for the first time in over a century. As chair of the House Education Policy Committee, she's been a driving force behind some major legislation.

Key Legislative Wins

Here's a glimpse at some of Collins' significant legislative accomplishments:

• The Human Life Protection Act: A strong pro-life law restricting abortions in Alabama.
• The Alabama Literacy Act: Focused on ensuring students can read at grade level by third grade.
• The School Choice and Student Opportunity Act: Creating Alabama's charter school program for educational opportunity.
• Erin's Law: Mandating age-appropriate child sexual abuse prevention education in schools.
• The Alabama College and Career Readiness Act: Linking graduation requirements to career readiness.
• The Alabama Rural Hospital Investment Program: Incentivizing donations to rural medical centers.
• IVF Protection: Safeguarding access to in vitro fertilization procedures.
• School Performance Grades: Assigning A-F letter grades to public schools for transparency.
• Entertainment Districts: Empowering local governments to create entertainment zones.
• Direct Wine Shipments: Allowing Alabamians to receive wine shipments directly to their homes.

Beyond Legislation

Collins also championed the creation of the Alabama Workforce Council, a Good Samaritan law, and legislation streamlining gun show regulations. She consistently secured funding for vital local services in her district.

A Dedicated Public Servant

Prior to her legislative career, Collins worked in banking for 16 years. She remains active in her community through church, volunteer work, and serving on various non-profit boards. She credits much of her success to her late husband, Tom, a beloved figure in Decatur.