Why Senate Bill 360 is a HUGE Deal for Alabama's Economy

Alright ChumCity peeps, listen up! After years in the trenches of Alabama's economic development, I've learned one thing: cheap, reliable energy is EVERYTHING. No power? No factories, no jobs, nada. That's why I'm shouting from the rooftops about Senate Bill 360 - it's the real deal for our state's future.

Manufacturers are Watching - and They're Calculating

Alabama's manufacturers are in a global dogfight, where every penny counts. When they decide where to build or expand, energy costs are at the TOP of their list. I've seen it firsthand. SB 360 keeps Alabama in the game by protecting our competitive energy edge.

Three Game-Changing Reforms

This bill isn't just tinkering around the edges; it's got three major changes that could set Alabama up for DECADES of growth:

• Rate Freeze: Sweet Relief! SB 360 FREEZES Alabama Power's rates for THREE YEARS. While other states are watching energy bills skyrocket, Alabama manufacturers get stability. That's a HUGE selling point for attracting new business.

• Energy Secretary: A Seat at the Table. The bill creates a cabinet-level Secretary of Energy. Trust me, this sends a powerful message to Fortune 500 companies looking at Alabama. It says energy policy is a TOP priority. Plus, built-in checks and balances ensure this position is properly overseen.

• Public Service Commission Overhaul: Local Power! SB 360 expands the Public Service Commission to seven members, elected by congressional district. This means commissioners who KNOW their communities, their industries, and their unique energy needs. Local representation = better decisions!

Manufacturing: The Heart of Alabama's Economy

I helped launch Manufacture Alabama because I believe manufacturing is the KEY to our state's prosperity. These are good jobs that support families across Alabama. But, the world's changing, and Alabama can't afford to sit still.

This Ain't Partisan - It's Just Smart!

Senate Bill 360 isn't about politics; it's about practical growth. It freezes rates, modernizes regulations, and makes energy a top priority. This bill directly strengthens Alabama's ability to compete.

Let's Get This Done!

The Legislature needs to pass Senate Bill 360, ASAP. Alabama's manufacturers, their workers, and all our communities are depending on it!

(George Clark, former Alabama Legislator, Business Council of Alabama COO, and Manufacture Alabama President)

'Bama's Got Your Back...Right? (Especially Your Property!)

We Alabamians are proud of our freedoms, right? Our state motto, "We Dare Defend Our Rights," isn't just lip service! We stand tall for religious freedom, gun rights, and the right to life. But there's one right that sometimes gets overlooked: the right to do what you want with your land!

Dream It, Build It (If the Land Allows!)

Picture this: you wanna buy some land and turn it into a hunter's paradise or build a sweet fishing lake. As long as you're not endangering anyone, shouldn't you be able to? That's the principle we should be fighting for!

The Zoning Zinger

Here's where things get tricky: zoning laws. With a snap of the fingers (and a vote!), local governments can completely nuke your property rights and shut down projects. Talk about a buzzkill!

Playing Fair: No Mid-Game Rule Changes!

Imagine investors bailing on Alabama because they're scared local officials might change the rules on them. Some communities are facing this right now, with folks trying to alter zoning after projects have already started! That's like rewriting the football rulebook at halftime!

The Meta Mess: South Alabama's Stand

This is happening right now in south Alabama with a renewable energy project that's key to powering a massive Meta data center. Some folks want to change the zoning and stop it, but that could scare off future investors and hurt job creation. Ouch!

A Domino Effect of Freedom Loss

Changing the rules because of public pressure sets a dangerous precedent: nobody's property rights are safe! Today it's one thing, tomorrow it could be your farm, your family business, or even your home!

Stand Your Ground (and Your Property!)

We need leaders who will defend our principles, even when it's easier to just go with the flow. If we want to keep our freedoms, we gotta stand by the idea that the rules shouldn't change after someone's already invested in their property based on those rules!

All Rights Matter!

Our rights are precious. Losing property rights could lead to losing other freedoms, and that's a road we don't want to go down.

(Written by Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth. Sharing his two cents for the good of the state!)

Tide Rolling to the Big Dance!

Nate Oats is taking the Alabama Crimson Tide back to the NCAA Tournament for the sixth time! Selection Sunday revealed a No. 4 seed for the Tide in the Midwest Region.

Oats' Unprecedented Run

Get this: Oats has guided Alabama to a No. 4 seed or higher for the fourth straight year – and the fifth time in the last six! Before Oats, this program only managed that four times in its entire history! Talk about a turnaround!

First Round Foes

Alabama tips off on Friday afternoon against No. 13 seed Hofstra. Fresh off a CAA Conference title, these Pride boast a 24-10 record, so they're no pushover.

Potential Matchups

If the Tide advance, they'll face the winner of No. 5 Texas Tech vs. No. 12 Akron. Win that, and a Sweet Sixteen showdown with No. 1 seed Michigan could be on the horizon.

SEC Domination

The Midwest Region is loaded with SEC talent! Tennessee (No. 6), Kentucky (No. 7), and Georgia (No. 8) are all in the mix!

SEC Tournament Invasion!

A whopping TEN SEC teams made the bracket this year! Florida snagged a No. 1 seed in the South, while Vanderbilt grabbed a No. 5 seed and Texas A&M a No. 10. Arkansas is a No. 4 seed in the West, with Missouri sneaking in as a No. 10.

March Madness is Here!

Texas faces North Carolina State in the First Four for a shot at the No. 11 seed in the West. It’s going to be a wild ride, and the SEC is ready to make some noise!

Huntsville's Rocket Legacy Fuels Artemis

When NASA's Artemis astronauts gear up for the Moon, they'll be soaring aboard a rocket born and bred in Huntsville! As David Beaman from Marshall Space Flight Center puts it, "This is America's rocket...and with our partners, it's the world's rocket!"

The Heart of Artemis: SLS

At the core of this ambitious venture is the Space Launch System (SLS), the most powerful rocket ever, managed right here in Huntsville. Its mission? To propel humanity further into space than ever before.

More Than Just a Job

For Beaman, Artemis is a family affair, continuing a legacy his father started during the Apollo era. For those not immersed in space policy, Artemis represents America's bold return to deep-space exploration, reaching for the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

It's About the Science!

Forget symbolic gestures; Artemis is all about groundbreaking science. As Beaman emphasizes, "It's not about the journey, it's about the science!" From medical breakthroughs to harnessing lunar resources, Artemis aims to answer questions impossible to solve on Earth.

Apollo vs. Artemis: A New Era

While Apollo comparisons are inevitable, Beaman points out a key difference: "The Moon's the same. We're different!" Our technologies and objectives have evolved.

A Campaign, Not Just a Mission

Artemis isn't a one-shot deal; it's a sustained campaign, building capabilities mission by mission.

Taking Incremental Steps

Artemis I successfully circled the Moon with an uncrewed Orion in 2022. Next up, Artemis II will send four astronauts on a lunar flyby.

No Room for Error

Testing systems thoroughly is paramount. "We can’t afford to reboot in space," Beaman states. "Our stuff has to work every time.”

Looking Ahead

After Artemis II, comes Artemis III, a crewed docking mission. Then comes Artemis IV, the mission slated to land astronauts on the Moon for the first time since '72. "We’re not going to fly by and drop them," Beaman assures. "We’re going to land!" The ultimate goal? A permanent lunar presence and a launchpad for Mars.

Huntsville's DNA

Huntsville, as the propulsion development leader since Apollo, is key. Beaman recalls watching Saturn V launches as a kid, a legacy he now helps continue. "It’s Huntsville’s DNA," he says, "We gravitate toward things that challenge us."

Discipline, Not Dysfunction

Artemis' timelines prioritize getting it right. "We have to do it right," Beaman insists. Engineers are validating every aspect, imagining the unimaginable to mitigate risk. NASA aims to increase launch frequency, unlocking more science and learning.

A Team Effort

While Huntsville leads, Artemis is a global effort. International partners contribute vital components. The Rocket City remains central: "We’re a small part of a very big thing,” says Beaman, "Being a small part of a real big thing is pretty cool.”

More Than Footprints

For Beaman, Artemis is about pushing boundaries. "It’s about doing hard things," he explains. "When you challenge yourself...you learn so many other things that benefit us here on Earth.” As lunar exploration continues, Huntsville remains the heart of America's lunar return.

Auburn Accepts NIT Bid, Set to Face South Alabama

The dream of March Madness is over for the Auburn Tigers, who unfortunately missed the cut on Selection Sunday after a rocky patch in February and an early SEC Tournament exit. But don't despair, Tiger fans!

NIT Bound!

Auburn has accepted a bid to the NIT and will enter as the overall No. 1 seed! That's right, they're hosting the South Alabama Jaguars in a rare in-state postseason showdown!

Game Details

Get ready to roar, because the game tips off at Neville Arena on Tuesday night at 90 PM CST. If Auburn wins, they'll face the winner of No. 4 Seattle University and No. 5 St. Thomas (MN), also at Neville Arena.

About the Jaguars

South Alabama finished their season with a 21-11 record (11-7 in the Sun Belt Conference). They missed out on an NCAA Tournament bid after failing to win their conference tourney.

Fresh Start for the Tigers

Auburn wraps up the year at 17-16 overall (7-11 in conference play). While it wasn't enough for the Big Dance, the NIT offers a chance to regroup, gain momentum for next season, and give Coach Pearl some valuable experience.

Get Ready for Some Hoops!

This Tuesday night clash between the Tigers and Jaguars promises to be a good one. Get your orange and blue on and get ready to cheer!

Alabama's Up-and-Comers: The "Who's Next" List!

Get ready to meet the future of Alabama! In anticipation of Yellowhammer News' 15th anniversary Power & Influence Top 50 list (dropping April 1st!), we're spotlighting the next generation of leaders poised to shape our state.

Power & Influence always provides an honest look at the top 50 movers and shakers in Alabama, impacting business, politics, and public service. But who's ready to step into those roles?

Meet the Future

We've tapped into the insights of current leaders to showcase eleven exceptional individuals who are already making waves and are well on their way to leading Alabama.

Emory Cox

Special Assistant to the President for International Economic Relations

"Emory's dedication to public service and his love for our great state will continue to bring about meaningful results." – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn)

Maggie Oliver

Chief Development Officer, Alabama Port Authority

"Maggie has a presence that commands a room, but more importantly, she pairs that presence with thoughtful leadership and a deep commitment to Alabama’s future." – Zeke Smith, Chairman, Alabama Port Authority Board of Directors

Harrison Adams

Alabama Department of Workforce

"Harrison continues to impress me and many in our state as his impact through dedicated and effective public service continues to grow.” – Greg Reed, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce

Kristin Hellmich

Director of External Communications, Poarch Creek Indians

"Kristin approaches her work with respect for our history and a clear eye toward the future, ensuring our voice is represented accurately and authentically." – Stephanie Bryan, Chairwoman and CEO of Poarch Creek Indians

Phillip Johns

Chief Financial Officer, Alabama Farmers Federation

"Phillip is already building a legacy of leadership within our organization and certainly is deserving of recognition." – Paul Pinyan, Executive Director, Alabama Farmers Federation

Lindsey McAdory

CEO and Chief Strategist CBG Strategies, LLC

"His eyes are fixated on building a better Birmingham.” – Randall Woodfin, Mayor of Birmingham

Saylor Cuzzort

Communications Director + Alabama Senate Republican Caucus

"Her love for this state and insatiable work ethic are exceeded only by her ability and her integrity." – Caroleene Dobson, 2026 candidate, Alabama Secretary of State

Annie Dunne Meissner

Director of Finance and Events, Alabama Republican Party

"Annie is absolutely a rising leader in Alabama politics." – Shannon Whitt, Chief of Staff, Alabama Republican Party

Anna Grace Gamble

External Affairs Manager, Alabama Rural Electric Association

"She reflects the values and character of our members and has cultivated invaluable relationships with legislators and policymakers." – Sean Strickler, Chief Operating Officer, Alabama Rural Electric Association

Scott McClintock

Vice president of Policy and Public Affairs, Business Council of Alabama

"His leadership has strengthened BCA’s advocacy efforts and helped ensure the voice of Alabama’s job creators is heard clearly in Montgomery and beyond." – Helena Duncan, President and CEO, Business Council of Alabama

Justice Smyth

Executive Director, Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority

"Justice represents the very best of what a young leader in this field can be, and I am confident his impact on our state will only continue to grow.” – Tim Parker, III, President & CEO, Parker Towing Company

ChumCity Hot Takes!

Here's the lowdown on what's got us buzzing:

Bama Baller Bust!

Alabama basketball's star, Aden Holloway, got popped for weed just before the 2026 NCAA Tournament! Talk about a distraction for the Crimson Tide.

Vegas Drama & Boston Blunders!

A Las Vegas sheriff defied a judge to keep a repeat offender locked up. Meanwhile, in Boston, anti-ICE protesters accidentally helped a child rape suspect stay on the lam for weeks. Yikes!

Trump's Iran Intel Laugh

Word is, President Trump chuckled after getting intel about Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, and his rumored lifestyle. Awkward!

Tuberville Stands Firm

Governor-elect and former coach Tommy Tuberville is firing back at Dems who are upset about his tweets criticizing Islam. He's not backing down and says he meant every word!

Gambling on Alabama?

Looks like gambling interests made some big bets on Alabama legislative races. And guess what? Those bets are about to pay off!

Trump and NATO in the Hormuz Strait!

President Trump is still pushing NATO to get involved in the Strait of Hormuz, causing friction with our allies. He wants them to help escort ships and stand up to Iranian threats.

Iran's Fury and Failed Truce!

Iran's rejecting any talk of peace while "Operation Epic Fury" continues. They're still allegedly attacking their neighbors, and top Iranian officials, including Ali Larijani and General Abdolrahim Mousavi, are rumored to be dead!

Dale Jackson Says: Tune in to Dale Jackson on WVNN, weekdays from 5-9 a.m., to hear more!

Alabama's First District: A Primary Battle Heating Up!

Six weeks ago, Jerry Carl was cruising with a 16-point lead. Now? It's down to 8, and Rhett Marques is snagging almost every undecided voter! This Republican Primary in Alabama's First Congressional District is a political nerd's dream.

Key Storylines

• The Britt Boost: Senator Katie Britt's early endorsement and financial support gave Rhett Marques a serious leg up.
• Carl's Comeback: Former Congressman Jerry Carl is back for round two, aiming to reclaim his seat in the newly drawn district.
• Money Matters: Where's the cash flowing? To the former Congressman or the Senator-backed challenger?

The Poll Numbers Don't Lie

Our latest poll reveals a significant shift. Carl's lead has been sliced in half! While he's up slightly, it's within the margin of error. Meanwhile, Marques has surged ahead, closing the gap dramatically.

Undecided Voters: The Game Changer

But here's the real kicker: Marques is dominating with undecided voters! He's captured nearly 80% of those who've made up their minds recently. That's a clear trajectory, folks.

Carl's Ceiling Problem

Carl's name recognition advantage seems to be fading. His numbers are stagnating, especially outside his home turf. He's a regional candidate in a district-wide race.

Marques's Momentum

Marques, on the other hand, is still introducing himself – and it's working! His favorability is soaring, and he's gaining traction even in Carl's stronghold. He's got room to grow!

What Voters Learn Matters

When voters get informed about Carl's record, things change. An "informed ballot" showed his support plummeting. This is a deeply conservative district, and Carl's Washington history isn't playing well.

The Britt Factor: Untapped Potential

Senator Britt's endorsement is a HUGE asset. But most voters still don't know about it! Those who do are overwhelmingly supporting Marques. That's a massive swing waiting to happen.

The Outsider Advantage

Voters prefer a political outsider with fresh ideas, and Marques fits the bill perfectly. His message is resonating, converting voters at a higher rate than Carl's.

Show Me the Money!

Marques is winning the fundraising game too! He's out-raised Carl and has a significant cash-on-hand advantage. This is a well-funded challenge.

What's the Takeaway?

This race is far from over. Marques has the momentum, message efficiency, a powerful endorsement, and the cash to spread the word. It's just getting started, ChumCity!

Community Rallies Around Trussville Family After Tragedy

Alabama and the nation are showing an outpouring of support for the family of U.S. Air Force Major John A. "Alex" Klinner. The Trussville resident tragically passed away while serving overseas earlier this month, leaving behind his wife, Libby, a teacher, and their three young children.

GoFundMe Campaign Exceeds Expectations

A GoFundMe campaign created to help Libby and the children has already blown past the $1 million mark! It's a testament to the incredible generosity of people, many of whom never even met Major Klinner but want to help this family in their time of need.

A New Chapter Cut Short

Local reports indicate the Klinner family had recently moved to Trussville, excited to start a new chapter in their lives. Trussville Mayor Ben Short shared a heartfelt message, noting that while Major Klinner's time in the community was short, his loss is deeply felt. He hailed Major Klinner's service as representing "the very best of our nation."

Honoring a Hero: Husband, Father, and Servant Leader

The fundraiser, aptly named "Honoring Major Alex Klinner — Supporting Libby & Children," was organized by Klinner’s sister-in-law, Sarah Rose Harrill. The funds raised will provide crucial stability and support for Libby and the children in the months and years ahead.

Major Klinner, just 33 years old, was lost on March 12th when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq. He served eight dedicated years in the United States Air Force. His wife, Libby, shared her heartbreak in a social media post: "Alex and his crew were on the plane that crashed in Iraq. I'm devastated to lose the best person I know, my best friend.”

More Than Just a Serviceman

Beyond his military service, Major Klinner was known for his outstanding character and unwavering commitment to others. As his sister-in-law wrote, "Alex was more than a serviceman. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and the kind of person who would quietly step in to help anyone who needed it. He embodied what it means to be a servant leader."

With a two-and-a-half-year-old and seven-month-old twins, the Klinner family's lives have been forever changed. The community is rallying to provide support during this incredibly difficult time.

How You Can Help

The fundraising goal has been raised to $2 million as donations continue to pour in. Currently, over $1.3 million has been raised! This effort is not only about financial assistance but also about surrounding the family with love and encouragement. Let's continue to honor Major Klinner's legacy and support his family during this unimaginable hardship.

Alabama GOP: Eating Its Own Young?

Across Alabama, conservatives are raising eyebrows at the Alabama State Republican Party’s Steering Committee. Are they really trying to devour their future?

Shutting Out New Voices

This steering committee, which claims to crave growth, openness, and fresh perspectives, is reportedly blocking Alabamians from even appearing on the Republican ballot. Seriously?

A Contradictory Message

It's a complete 180 from the party's “everyone is welcome” message. One candidate describes a "vicious and unprofessional hearing" designed to appear fair, when the decision seemed predetermined.

Closed Doors, Shifting Rules

Candidates are allegedly being told "no" in secret by a group that many claim bends the rules as they please. Why bother running if insiders can block you? That's not exactly democratic.

Protecting Incumbents?

A steering committee that avoids explaining its decisions isn’t protecting the party – it's allegedly protecting incumbents. Voters aren't blind. Maybe the problem isn't the challengers.

Echoes of Injustice

Others who were denied ballot access received letters without a single explanation. No due process. No transparency. It clashes with the spirit of the 14th Amendment.

A Party of Secrets?

A small group is apparently deciding who gets to run, and rumors say they aren’t even following their own rules. That's not how a confident party operates. Where's the transparency they preach?

Confident or Nervous?

This feels less like a confident committee and more like a group protecting incumbents by eliminating competition. But isn't the Alabama Republican Party filled with great people?

A Milestone Misstep?

On the 250th birthday of the USA, meant to celebrate freedom, Alabama seems to be letting a political machine dictate who gets to run. It's the opposite of American ideals.

A Third Party Beckons?

You can’t claim to want growth and then slam the door on your own voters. People are furious and are questioning if Alabama needs a third party. One that embraces competition. One that trusts its voters.

Switching Off Entirely

If leaders keep shrinking the tent, don't be shocked when people build a new one. People aren’t switching to Democrats – they're switching off entirely. If they feel unwelcome, they won't run or vote. Is that the goal?