Alabama House Race Heats Up!

The special primary election for Alabama House District 11 is almost here (May 13th!), and things are getting spicy! GOP candidate Heath Allbright is firing back after some seriously harsh words – and mailers – hit the streets.

"Dishonest Attacks"?!

Allbright is calling the attacks on his character and family "dishonest." Apparently, a mailer from the 1776 PAC (connected to his opponent) ruffled some feathers in the Cullman area.

Staying Positive (Despite the Negativity)

Instead of getting down in the mud, Allbright says he's keeping it positive. He wants to focus on the issues that really matter to the folks of District 11. He even posted a video with his wife and kids, standing tall against the shade!

What's the Fuss About?

So, what did the mailer actually say? It accuses Allbright of being in cahoots with "Montgomery political insiders" and "special interest groups." They point to endorsements from groups like the Alabama Farmers Federation and the Business Council of Alabama.

Taking the High Road

Allbright's not having it. He's sticking to his guns (metaphorically, of course!) and focusing on being a true leader. He believes the negativity says more about the attacker than the target.

A Little Help From... the 1776 PAC?

Speaking of the opponent, Don Fallin reported an "in-kind" donation from the 1776 PAC right before the mailers dropped. Coincidence? You decide!

A Message of Unity and Hope

Allbright's taking a page from his mom's book (and the Bible): "If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all." He's asking for prayers, support, and your vote on May 13th! Only Republicans are on the primary ballot as one Democrat will challenge the Republican victor in the general election.

Birmingham's Small Businesses are Barking Up the Right Tree!

Remember Emondre Johnson, the mastermind behind The Bark Park in Birmingham? Turns out, winning the 2023 Birmingham Small Business Week Pitch Competition was a game-changer!

A Boost for The Bark Park

"Winning the pitch competition set the trajectory for where I am now," says Johnson, now 26. He credits the win with proving his concept had legs and that the city backed him.

Small Business Week: A Springboard for Success

Birmingham Small Business Week, an annual event packed with workshops, networking, and pitch competitions, runs May 4-10. What began as a small, virtual event has blossomed into a major resource, highlighting how businesses can strengthen the local economy.

Birmingham's Economic Engine

Cornell Welsey, director of Birmingham's Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, emphasizes the vital role small businesses play in driving Birmingham's economic growth, fostering innovation, and creating jobs.

From Pitch Winner to Brick & Mortar Boss

Since his big win, Johnson has opened a physical location on Montevallo Road, offering daycare, boarding, grooming, pet photography, and an indoor dog park. A long-time animal lover, Johnson saw a gap in the market and jumped on it!

Creating Opportunities for All

"The Bark Park is a business that is underrepresented for people that look like me," Johnson explains. He hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of background.

Small Business Week Continues to Pay Off

Jeddie Carnes, owner of GLAAM Cosmetics and a winner from the 2024 competition, launched three new products and got into the Target Accelerator Program. Birmingham is committed to providing small businesses with the tools they need to succeed, says Monique Shorts, senior program manager for the Office of Business Diversity and Opportunity (OBDO).

Economic Opportunity in Action

Birmingham's Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity (IEO), along with the OBDO, is dedicated to creating economic opportunities for small businesses. Programs like VITAL and RISE provide resources and funding.

Supporting Legacy Businesses

Small Business Week isn't just for startups. The city also recognizes legacy businesses, offering resources like succession-planning workshops. More than 40 legacy businesses have benefited from this support.

Gone Fishin', Not Just Wishin' at Oak Mountain!

Get ready for some reel fun! The Exceptional Anglers event, "Gone Fishin', Not Just Wishin'," is casting off May 7-9 at Oak Mountain State Park. This awesome event teaches the basics of fishing to students with disabilities from Alabaster, Pelham, Shelby, and Jefferson county schools.

Hooked on Helping!

According to Chris Blankenship, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), community events like this are a HUGE deal. He says it's all thanks to the dedicated volunteers and sponsors who make it possible to enrich the lives of students and ensure everyone can enjoy the great outdoors!

Reel Activities!

Students will have the chance to fish 'til their hearts' content, dive into cool art projects, learn all about fish and wildlife, groove to local musicians, listen to captivating storytellers, and even learn about water safety, including how to properly use life jackets. The fishing fun happens right behind the park’s main office.

Want to Get Involved?

Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are available! Contact Kasie McKee at kasie.mckee@dcnr.alabama.gov or call 205-331-1266 for more info. Let's make this event unforgettable!

About ADCNR

ADCNR is all about taking care of Alabama’s natural resources through its Marine Resources, State Lands, State Parks, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries divisions. They're all about stewardship, management, and making sure we all get to enjoy the beauty around us!

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