tommy battle Archives

An article published last week by The Globe and Mail has ignited debate from Ottawa to Alabama, after boldly declaring that Canada, by one key economic measure, had fallen behind the Yellowhammer State.

Titled “How Canada became poorer than Alabama,” the piece by journalist Tim Kiladze examines gross domestic product per capita data showing that, after adjusting for purchasing power, Canada’s provincial average slipped below Alabama’s in recent years. The comparison, drawn from International Monetary Fund data and research by economist Trevor Tombe, landed with what the paper itself described as “an overdue wake-up call.”

The Globe reported that “it was a shock” when IMF calculations showed Canada had, at least temporarily, fallen behind the southern state on a per capita GDP basis.

To understand more, the newspaper traveled to “the Deep South,” devoting significant space and multiple prominent photographs to Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, who is featured in striking images inside City Hall and throughout the community.

Battle reflected on Huntsville’s economic strategy, telling The Globe that when he first took office in 2008, “we had great entry-level jobs. Hospitality, landscaping, etc. And we had great jobs on the top end, which was, you know, your rocket scientist, your technical person, your doctorate people who worked out at Redstone Arsenal. That middle ground was where our work force was lacking.”

The Globe highlights Huntsville as home to the Saturn rocket program, the HudsonAlpha biotech campus and major aerospace and manufacturing investments, including a $6 billion Eli Lilly plant announced in December. Battle promoted “Huntsville as a smart place,” a tagline the newspaper says now carries new weight as global companies compete for investment.

For many Canadians and even those closer to home, the state still carries long-standing stereotypes. “Alabama tropes are hard to shake: The state is backward and full of bible thumpers and bigots – allegedly,” the article reads.

Battle acknowledged those perceptions. When local companies try to recruit from outside the region, he told the newspaper, spouses often respond the same way: “‘Huntsville?’ With one question mark. Then they say, ‘Alabama???’ With three question marks.”

But the article argues Huntsville is helping rewrite that narrative.

The piece also points to Alabama’s 2.7 percent unemployment rate, its rise as an auto manufacturing powerhouse and a business climate focused on what former Alabama Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield described as “speed to market.” In Alabama, he said, companies can secure permits and begin construction quickly. “Red tape was for suckers,” the article notes in describing the state’s aggressive approach to recruitment.

At the same time, The Globe makes clear the comparison is not simple, stressing that per capita GDP “is not the Holy Grail.”

The story has since generated widespread reaction across Canada, including discussion on CBC News, where economists debated whether GDP per capita is even the right way to measure prosperity.

“I don’t think we should be trying to compete with Alabama,” economist Mike Moffatt said during the CBC segment.

The Globe piece ultimately frames Alabama as a warning sign for Canada.

“If Canadians remain complacent, the rest of the world will eat our lunch,” the article concludes.

For Alabama, the viral moment represents more than a headline. It is a striking spotlight from one of Canada’s most influential newspapers, complete with full page photography of Huntsville’s mayor and a sweeping examination of the city’s rise as a technology, biotech and advanced manufacturing hub.

The article also allows readers on both sides of the border to see Alabama through a different lens. The state is no longer being framed as a punchline but as a case study in economic reinvention, speed to market and strategic growth. For Alabamians, reading the piece offers a rare glimpse into how the state is perceived abroad and how dramatically that perception is shifting.

In the end, the debate sparked by The Globe and Mail may center on GDP statistics, but the broader takeaway is clear. Alabama, and Huntsville in particular, is competing in a global arena. And increasingly, the world is paying attention.

Courtesy of 256 Today

Eli Lilly and Company announced Tuesday it will invest more than $6 billion to build a major new pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Alabama, a blockbuster economic development win that state leaders say will be the largest initial investment in Alabama history.

The project, planned for the Greenbrier South area in Huntsville, will be a next-generation active pharmaceutical ingredient site focused on domestic production of “small molecule synthetic and peptide medicines,” according to the company.

Lilly says the facility is expected to create about 3,450 total jobs, including 3,000 construction jobs and 450 permanent, high-skilled roles such as engineers, scientists, operations personnel and lab technicians.

https://x.com/EliLillyandCo/status/1998493637647253568

“Today’s announcement is tremendous news for Huntsville and for our state. Lilly’s $6 billion investment and the creation of thousands of good-paying jobs will strengthen domestic production of lifesaving medicines,” U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) said.

“This commitment further cements ‘Made in Alabama’ manufacturing as the gold standard and will help usher in a new golden age of American manufacturing, right here in Sweet Home Alabama. This project also underscores President Trump’s leadership in driving major domestic investments to revitalize and unleash American manufacturing dominance and biomedical innovation. I’m proud to be a federal partner as we continue working to provide life-changing opportunities for Alabamians so our world-class workforce can continue to power America’s future.”

Lilly said the Huntsville plant will be among its sites that manufacture orforglipron, the company’s oral GLP-1 medicine in development.

The company expects to submit orforglipron to global regulators for obesity by the end of this year, and described the Huntsville site as part of its effort to expand U.S.-based capacity for next-generation medicines.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026, with completion anticipated in 2032, the company said.

“Huntsville and our entire state have a proven legacy of innovation, and there is no better home for Lilly than right here in Alabama. Our roots in the biosciences industry run deep, and Alabama’s contributions to this burgeoning sector continue,” Governor Kay Ivey said today.

“We are proud to welcome Lilly’s new U.S. manufacturing facility, which we are thrilled is the largest initial investment in our state’s history. No doubt, Alabamians will help Lilly do things that have never been done before, and we will ensure this great company achieves their mission of improving the health and well-being of people all around the country and globe.”

Lilly said it selected the Huntsville location from more than 300 applications, citing workforce strength, infrastructure advantages, and proximity to the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, a Huntsville-based bioscience campus involved in workforce development and research.

The company also pointed to favorable zoning and incentives, as well as the region’s access to utilities and transportation materials.

State lawmakers have spent recent years renewing the landmark Alabama Jobs Act, and enhancing incentives like those being utilized by Eli Lilly, through legislation such as the SEEDs Act, The Game Plan, Working for Alabama, and Powering Growth.

“Huntsville’s track record of science and innovation, supported by advanced manufacturing expertise and a skilled workforce, makes Alabama an ideal location for Lilly to expand domestic manufacturing capacity for next‑generation medicines,” said David A. Ricks, Lilly chair and CEO.

“Today’s investment continues the onshoring of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production, strengthening supply chain resilience and reliable access to medicines for patients in the U.S.”

Nationally, the announcement fits into Lilly’s broader U.S. manufacturing push.

Huntsville site is part of the company’s plan to spend at least $27 billion on four new U.S. manufacturing sites, amid intensifying pressure to produce more medicines domestically rather than relying on overseas supply chains.

And it’s good for the state.

According to leaders, for every dollar Lilly invests there, it estimates up to four dollars in additional local economic activity. Also, for each manufacturing job created, several more will be generated in related sectors like supply chain, logistics and retail.

“Lilly’s decision to invest $6 billion in a next-generation pharmaceutical manufacturing facility here in Huntsville is a tremendous vote of confidence in our people and our future,” Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said.

“Huntsville has long been a place where innovation thrives and hard, ‘impossible’ things get done. We’re proud to welcome Lilly to our community and excited to help shape the next era of breakthrough medicine.”

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Alabama leaders cheered a Trump Administration decision today to announce the selection of Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville as the permanent headquarters for U.S. Space Command.

The move mark a major milestone in the nation’s strategic defense posture and means an estimated 1,400 Space Command jobs will transition to Redstone Arsenal over the next five years.

“As I have said all along, there is no better place to locate Space Command Headquarters than in Huntsville, Alabama,” Governor Kay Ivey said in a statement. “Today, the facts prevailed, and it is official: Space Command Headquarters is coming to Sweet Home Alabama.”

She commended officials in the City of Huntsville and the state’s Congressional delegation for working tirelessly to secure Space Command HQ for Alabama’s “Rocket City.”

“As our history shows, Alabama always stands ready to support the defense of our great nation, and Huntsville continues providing the Rocket City is truly ‘Space Central,’” Governor Ivey added.

The command’s missions are to advance the military’s extensive operations in space and to seek more effective ways to protect U.S. assets such as satellites that are crucial for communications, navigation and surveillance.

“This decision is not about what’s best for Huntsville – it’s about being mission-focused,” Mayor Tommy Battle said in a statement. “The decision to locate U.S. Space Command at Redstone ensures our nation is prepared to meet growing challenges in space.

“Huntsville is ready with our experienced workforce, resilient infrastructure and deep commitment to national defense,” he added.

‘Rocket City’ resources

For Huntsville, the announcement that it has been picked to host Space Command’s Headquarters comes with a strong sense of déjà vu.

On Jan. 13, 2021, the Secretary of the U.S. Air Force announced that Huntsville had been selected as the preferred location for the headquarters of the new U.S. Space Command.

That statement said the Department of the Air Force had conducted both virtual and on-site visits to assess which of six candidate locations would be best suited to host the U.S. Space Command HQ based on factors related to mission, infrastructure capacity, community support and cost.

It added that Huntsville compared favorably across more of these factors than any other community, providing a large, qualified workforce, quality schools, superior infrastructure capacity, and low initial and recurring costs.

The decision was later reversed by President Joe Biden in favor of Colorado.

It’s difficult to argue, however, that Huntsville isn’t a deserving choice as the Headquarters site of the Space Command.

For starters, Huntsville is home to Redstone Arsenal, which has been the center of the U.S. Army’s missile and rocket programs for more than 50 years.

The nation’s first ballistic missile was developed at Redstone, and it today hosts a number of military organizations, including the Army’s Aviation and Missile Command, Space and Missile Defense Command, and the Missile Defense Agency.

Also located at Redstone is NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, which designed the Saturn V rockets that powered the Apollo program moon landings and continues to lead the nation’s space program.

In addition, Huntsville ranks high among top metro areas for STEM occupations and is well-known nationally as one of the top cities for aerospace engineers.

“This is a landmark moment for Alabama, and it reflects the state’s continued leadership in aerospace, innovation and national defense,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “With its proven talent pipeline, world-class research assets and a deep bench of industry expertise, Huntsville offers Space Command an ecosystem uniquely equipped to support its mission.

“We’re honored by this decision and ready to support every phase of growth ahead.”

Courtesy of the Alabama Department of Commerce’s Made in Alabama website.

On Tuesday morning, State Sen. Tom Butler announced formally that he will not seek re-election in 2026.

Butler was joined by fellow lawmakers, local officials, and longtime friends who gathered to honor his decades-long Alabama legislative career.

“This is a sad day – and a happy day,” Butler (R-Madison) said. “Sad for me, happy for my wife. She was doing a little dance this morning.”

Butler, 81, a pharmacist by trade, who was first elected to the Alabama House in 1982, has served a total of more than 40 years in the state legislature across both chambers and parties.

“I have enjoyed my tenure in the House and the Senate,” he told those gathered. “We have been able to do a few things that are positive… but I still have a year and a half left in service to the state, and I intend to make the most of that. I’m not going to be a lame duck – I’m going to be out swimming the rest of them.”

Butler was praised by friends and colleagues on Tuesday for his influence, mentorship, and dedication to the people of Madison County and the State of Alabama.

State Rep. James Lomax (R-Huntsville), one of the youngest members of the Alabama Legislature, introduced the speakers, as well as Butler himself, who Lomax commended for a “career built on public service and steadfast leadership.”

State Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur) and former Alabama House Speaker Mac McCutcheon reflected on Butler’s leadership in the BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure) process – which has wielded a historically instrumental role in Redstone Arsenal and long positioned North Alabama for future economic growth.

“You had the ability to have the vision of what could be based on what we were dealing with at the time,” McCutcheon said. “And now we see that vision has come true. You’ve left a legacy behind.”

State Sen. Wes Kitchens (R-Arab) called Butler “a true statesman.”

“He’s someone who’s made a difference, not just for Madison County and for this region, but for the entire state of Alabama. He took me under his wing when I moved up to the Senate. He’s not just a colleague – he’s a friend,” Kitchens said.

State Rep. Laura Hall (D-Huntsville) recalled how Butler welcomed her into the legislature by giving her his own Alabama House member lapel pin. But what stood out most, she said, was a story from one of their constituents.

“She told me, ‘I can call him at midnight, 3 a.m., about the children I’m taking care of, and he will get out of his bed and make sure they get their medication,’” Hall said. “That was a beautiful tribute to you, and I’ve always respected you for that.”

In his remarks, Butler reflected on that story. “Those kind of stories – that’s the story of service. That’s what I’m about,” he said.

One of Butler’s most well-known legislative achievements – requiring Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in schools and public buildings – was born from a deeply personal experience.

After suffering a cardiac arrest during a walk near his home, Butler’s life was saved by a defibrillator placed at the Madison Fire Department – the very first one he had helped procure as part of his advocacy for AEDs.

“We’ve had many, many saves with that program,” Butler said, referencing the loss of a 14-year-old student in Madison as another source of motivation. “We put those defibrillators statewide… and one of the lives they saved was my own.”

State Rep. Andy Whitt (R-Harvest) credited Butler’s leadership with saving countless lives, and said he impressed on him

“He’s a humble giant. His shoes will be very difficult to fill,” Whitt said. “You’ve been a mentor to me for 40 years.”

Nearly every speaker recalled the personal impact Butler had on their lives and careers. State Rep. Phillip Rigsby (R-Huntsville), also a pharmacist, said Butler was the first to suggest he run for office.
“He gave me his card, wrote his number on the back, and said, ‘Pharmacists make great politicians.’ I still have that card,” Rigsby said. “It’s because of you that I said yes to this.”

Butler, true to form, closed his remarks by saying, “Call me anytime I can help you.”

Butler’s decision not to seek re-election will open up Alabama Senate District 2, which includes portions of Madison and Limestone counties, for the 2026 cycle. The Alabama Republican Party primary election will be held on May 19, 2026.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The city of Huntsville prides itself on being a city of creativity, innovation, and technology.

So, it would only make sense that the Rocket City has someone to lead that drive for new technology and innovation.

Well, Huntsville, which hired its first music officer in 2022 to head up a booming local music industry, has hired its chief innovation officer.

Dr. Larry Lowe, a seasoned tech entrepreneur and civic leader, signed an agreement with the city to be its first chief innovation officer, beginning May 1.

Lowe will work under a two-year consulting agreement with the Industrial Development Board, supporting the city, Huntsville Utilities, and the Solid Waste Disposal Authority.

“Innovation isn’t just about technology — it’s about making city services more efficient, scalable, and community-centered,” said Lowe. “I’m honored to serve my hometown and help lead its digital transformation.”

His role is to help these agencies embrace new technologies and find smarter, more efficient ways to better serve the community.

A Huntsville native, Lowe brings a deep background in technology, data science, and innovation strategy to the newly created role. He’s built and sold two successful tech companies and recently launched his own consulting firm, Fractal Analytics Project.

He also worked with the city’s Inspections Department and Huntsville Utilities to improve services using advanced data solutions.

“Lowe will help us think strategically about how to use innovation in ways that support smart, inclusive growth,” said Mayor Tommy Battle.

Lowe will lead the City’s push to evaluate and integrate emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence. His focus will be on using tech to improve how the city operates, without replacing jobs.

“Lowe will help us zoom out and see how advanced technologies can make our city run better,” Battle said. “We want to stay ahead of the curve, to give us a competitive edge and make our city a little bit better, a little bit leaner and more responsive to our citizens.”

Lowe is also part of the Mayor’s AI Task Force, which recently secured a $50,000 grant to create an AI-focused curriculum to boost STEM education in eight key industries across Huntsville. The mayor created the task force 14 months ago, choosing thought leaders from government, academia, and industry to ensure Huntsville would be at the forefront in using AI ethically and effectively.

“AI is a tool that we need to become familiar with,” Lowe said. “Part of the challenge is that the technology is changing so fast that it can be hard to get your footing. But the genie is not going back in the bottle, and AI has become part of our day-to-day work.”

Courtesy of 256 Today

Radio talk show host Dale Jackson and 256 Today CEO Mecca Musick, take you through Alabama’s biggest political stories.

Mecca Musick is the CEO of 256 Today. Sign up for the 256 Today newsletter here.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN, Talk 99.5, and News Radio 1440 from 10-11 a.m., and on Talk Radio 103.9 FM/730AM WUMP from 3-4 p.m.

7. Auburn beats down in-state opponent Alabama State, breaking the potential Cinderella’s glass slipper after an 83-63 defeat to the overall No. 1 seed. While Auburn plays on, ASU Coach Tony Madlock celebrated the team’s first tournament victory over Saint Francis and the team’s potential. The remaining Alabama-based teams will play today: the Crimson Tide will play the Robert Morris Colonials at 11:40 a.m. from Cleveland and Troy will take on the 18th-ranked Kentucky Wildcats at 6:40 p.m. in Milwaukee.

6. The failure of a bill that would have enacted a ban on Delta-8 products in Alabama by Sen. Tim Melson (R-Florence) has led to a new push to legalize and tax the product in the state of Alabama. However, State Sen. Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville) wondered if legalizing more THC products was a good idea. Givan noted that, for the first time ever, THC has surpassed alcohol in DUI cases this year. The advocates for legalization, and regulation, could restrict sales to private package stores or vape shops for those 21 and up, rather than widespread retail at convenience stores as the unregulated market allows now.

5. The Alabama Public Library Service board has finally voted to terminate Director Nancy Pack, who faced over two years of controversy for allegedly favoring retention of sexually explicit library materials, questioning the motives of people who wanted to remove the explicit material, and even playing a role in multiple controversies around the state. The decision, opposed only by ex-Chair Ron Snider who called it a “dark day” driven by “extremists,” followed public pressure from groups like Clean Up Alabama, a group that is actually making a difference, unlike Read Freely Alabama which receives a large amount of media attention and an abundance of losses on their core issues.

4. The Alabama Senate passed the Community Pharmacy Relief Act, which Sen. Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman) says is a vital measure to stop pharmacy benefits managers from undercutting independent pharmacies with unfair reimbursements and hidden fees, and ensuring transparency, which could help independent pharmacies stay open. The bill, sponsored by State Sen. Billy Beasley (D-Clayton), bans PBMs from paying less than Medicaid rates for two years, mandates passing rebates to health plans, and empowers the Insurance Commissioner to penalize violators. It now heads to the House amid some opposition over potential cost hikes. However, the House is expected to pass the bill, with a sunset provision providing an opportunity to test the impact of the legislation before it will need to be revisited, which may not be necessary if the federal government addresses the issue.

3. President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing the Department of Education’s closure, fulfilling a campaign pledge to eliminate what he calls a wasteful, ideologically driven agency. But the agency can not be totally eliminated without an unlikely vote from Congress, so the role of managing Title I funds and student loans will continue with a much smaller staff. Trump and Education Secretary Linda McMahon argue the states can better handle education, they note declining test scores and exploding costs since the department was founded.

2. Mayor Tommy Battle of Huntsville expressed a lack of concern regarding Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), suggesting their impact on Alabama is overstated, ranking his concern as a 2-out-of-10 when it comes to the state’s federal government footprint. He criticized the media’s dramatic framing of the situation as apocalyptic, asserting that it doesn’t reflect the actual circumstances in his city, specifically citing a disappointed New York Times reporter that Battle suggested wanted worse news on the the matter and was disappointed to not get it.

1. A series of federal court rulings, including nationwide injunctions on President Donald Trump’s transgender military ban by Judge Ana Reyes, USAID cuts by Judge Theodore Chuang, mass deportations by Judge James Boasberg, and a single deportation of a Georgetown fellow by Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles, have stalled the administration’s early agenda, fueling outrage from Trump administration press secretary Karoline Leavitt who ripped “radical left-wing judges.” The Trump team plans to escalate these fights to the Supreme Court, with some allies like Stephen Miller and Trump himself suggesting impeachment for judges like Boasberg, raising tensions over judicial power versus executive authority. Actual impeachment over this, though, seems unlikely.

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Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and from 10-11 a.m. on Talk 99.5 and News Radio 1440, with a rebroadcast on WVNN at 10 p.m.

The City of Huntsville’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is undergoing a name change — but will apparently retain most of its current responsibilities.

On Thursday, the Huntsville City Council voted unanimously to rename the office the “Office of Multicultural Affairs.” Prior to the DEI office’s creation in August of 2021, it was already known by its now current title.

According to the city, the Office of Multicultural Affairs will collaborate with local organizations to engage residents and promote community involvement. Additionally, it will manage the Civic Engagement Academy (CEA), an eight-week program educating residents about municipal government. The office will also oversee the Community Awareness for Youth (CAFY) and summer intern programs, host Jazz in the Park, and work with various councils. It serves on the Human Relations Commission, Interfaith Mission Council, and provides City employee training.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle argued that the purpose of the office will continue to be pushing inclusivity.

“The mission hasn’t changed since we first established the Office of Multicultural Affairs in 2013 – to build an inclusive community and provide opportunities for everyone,” Battle said. “Four years ago, in response to community feedback, we renamed it to the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what we call it. What matters is that we are committed and true to our mission.”

Council Member Jennie Robinson cosponsored the renaming ordinance.

“We are an inclusive community that embraces many different cultures,” said Robinson. “The citizen engagement and a variety of events and activities highlighting different cultures offer more opportunities for our residents to get to know one another.

The vote to change the name of the office comes just weeks after the city announced a new DEI director.

Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

In the summer of 2013, I had the opportunity to intern in the Office of Mayor Tommy Battle. Like many interns, I found myself tasked with a variety of “other duties as assigned,” one of which was standing along Memorial Parkway during press conferences promoting Mayor Battle’s Restore Our Roads initiative—a major infrastructure project aimed at improving and expanding Huntsville’s road network to support future growth and development.

At the time, my thoughts were mostly occupied with escaping the relentless Alabama heat. But looking back, those scorching press conferences marked the unveiling of one of Mayor Battle’s many visionary projects for Huntsville–projects whose positive impacts are undeniable today.

The City of Huntsville held its municipal elections last week, where Mayor Battle was originally set to be on the ballot. However, since he ran unopposed, he was declared the winner at the close of the qualifying period and is now set to begin his fifth term as Mayor. Since taking office in 2008, Mayor Battle has overseen the creation of tens of thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars in investment in this city, all while guiding Huntsville as it grew to become Alabama’s largest city.

These achievements are not by accident. They are the result of focused, visionary leadership. While Mayor Battle consistently and rightfully acknowledges the contributions of others—leaders like Shane Davis and John Hamilton, and organizations like the Huntsville Madison County Chamber—his ability to articulate a bold vision and drive key initiatives has been essential. This consistent leadership from the top has been instrumental in transforming Huntsville into one of the nation’s fastest-growing and most prosperous metropolitan areas.

Looking back to 2013, it’s clear that without bold action to tackle infrastructure challenges through initiatives like Restore Our Roads, our roads and commute times would undoubtedly be far worse today. Without the Battle administration’s strategic focus on building the region’s manufacturing sector, we likely would have missed out on the Mazda-Toyota project, which brought over $2 billion in direct investment and thousands of good-paying jobs to the area. And without Mayor Battle’s vision to conduct a music audit, transformative projects like the Orion Amphitheater, which has greatly enhanced our quality of life and added a powerful marketing tool for the community, might never have come to fruition. These are just a few examples of how Mayor Battle’s leadership has yielded tangible results for our community.

There are many factors behind Huntsville’s success and that of its surrounding communities, but in my view, it’s hard to overlook Mayor Tommy Battle’s visionary leadership and his ability to execute as a central driving force. I’ve been fortunate to witness this leadership firsthand, and I’m excited to see what another four years of focused, strategic leadership will bring to our community.

John Roberts recently ran for Alabama’s 5th Congressional District, is a real estate and development manager, a family man, and proud Republican.

7. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle secured his fifth term without opposition in the city election, leading to his automatic re-election without a single vote cast, despite this, his campaign continued to receive significant financial contributions. Since the City Council’s decision on June 27 to pronounce him mayor, Battle’s campaign raised over $18,000, mainly from two political action committees: The Boeing Company PAC and DVA Holding Company PAC, and the campaign now holds nearly $460,000 in available funds, after reporting $113,000 in expenditures.

6. Democrats can not shake President Joe Biden, even as they try to campaign against his policies with the help of the media. Biden reportedly remains bitter toward top Democrats, including former President Barack Obama and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who played a role in urging him to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race. Biden is particularly upset with Pelosi, whom he views as “ruthless,” and is frustrated that Obama did not approach him directly. Despite this tension, the Democratic Party is planning a grand sendoff for Biden at the Democratic National Convention, where he will deliver a keynote address, highlighting his legacy while Vice President Kamala Harris runs away from it and the media is trying to help.

5. A Huntsville in-vitro fertilization clinic will be closing soon, but they say it is unrelated to recent overblown IVF issues in the state, but a bipartisan coalition of Alabama lawmakers still want IVF regulations clarified. The state’s only regulation, passed in March, grants immunity to clinics if embryos are destroyed, but critics argue it’s insufficient with more calls for more comprehensive legislation to ensure IVF access and protect embryos, but no consensus has been reached.

4. Victoryland, once a major greyhound racing venue in Alabama, now operates over 1,000 historical horse racing machines after the state banned electronic bingo, but these machines are slot machines with extra steps. Even with these quasi-legal machines, Victoryland, is still struggling financially as the Alabama Legislature narrowly failed to pass a bill permitting full-scale casinos and the the management says the casino’s future hinges on potential legislative changes to legalize broader gambling options in the state but some argue these places must go away before gambling can actually move forward.

3. An Alabama high school has moved to virtual learning Wednesday and today over COVID-19 in 2024 after an outbreak at Johnson Abernathy Graetz High School in Montgomery with numerous staff members being sick. During the virtual schooling, the school will be sanitized, and officials will decide today if it can reopen safely on Friday, with masks, which don’t work, available when students return after virtual learning, which also does not work.

2. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has commended Secretary of State Wes Allen for instructing the state’s Boards of Registrars to remove non-citizens from voter rolls. Allen emphasized his commitment to maintaining the integrity of Alabama’s elections, ensuring only U.S. citizens can vote. The list of identified non-citizen registered voters will be handed over to Marshall’s office for further investigation and potential criminal prosecution, Allen’s initiative is part of broader efforts to keep Alabama’s voter files clean, safe, and secure.

1. Vice President Kamala Harris has always been in favor of more taxes, she cast the tie-breaking vote to target tips for taxes before she copied former President Donald Trump’s plan to exclude tips from taxes, and U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks) says she will end Trump’s tax cuts if she wins. Rogers says if Harris wins, she may focus on increasing tax revenue and allow the Trump tax cuts to expire. Rogers emphasized the philosophical divide between parties on taxation, with Republicans aiming to retain or expand cuts and Democrats potentially targeting corporate taxes but Democrats don’t even know what Harris stands for.

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Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and from 10-11 a.m. on Talk 99.5 and News Radio 1440, with a rebroadcast Talk Radio 103.9 FM/730AM WUMP from 3-4 p.m.

Thursday morning marked the first stage of the return of Rocket Park’s Rocket Row at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center.

Dr. Kimberly Robinson, the center’s CEO and executive director, welcomed the return of the Rocket City’s iconic “Spaceline.”

“The Rockets comprising Rocket Row here at the Space and Rocket Center have been integral to our identity since the museum’s inception in 1970,” she said. “These historic artifacts have welcomed millions of visitors, serving as tangible symbols of humanity’s journey into space.”

The Rocket Row rockets are the Army Redstone, Jupiter, Jupiter-C, Juno II, and Mercury-Redstone rockets, all of which were mounted before the Rocket Center opened in 1970. These vehicles represent the Redstone family of rockets that led to the development of the Saturn I and ultimately the Saturn V that took Americans to the moon.

“Each has stood as witness of the can-do spirit of our early explorers, but those rockets that were originally intended for active space missions shortly after their assembly have stood proudly on display for over five decades,” said Robinson. “And during the passage of time and the weathering of all the elements, those years finally took their toll, necessitating a critical need for restoration to preserve these priceless artifacts.”

The rockets were removed in 2018 and transported to Cosmos Aerospace in Cullman for restoration work.

The restoration work on the rockets in the Rocket Park was made possible by Fred Luddy, a Space Camp parent from California, who provided $2 million in funding for Rocket Row.

Luddy said he first visited U.S. Space & Rocket Center when his son attended Space Camp. He said it was a magnificent place but noticed the rockets looked “a little tired.”

“They already had a plan. The plan just needed a little fuel,” said Luddy. “I want to thank the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and the city of Huntsville for letting us be a small part of this. We’re very, very proud to be part of your community. Thank you.”

Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon said Rocket Row is something to be celebrated.

From L-R Trey Daniels, Field Representative for Congressman Dale Strong, Committee of 100 CEO John Allen, Madison County Chairman Mac McCutchen (256 Today)

“It is a place where we can celebrate our history, our heritage, and it is literally part of the fabric of our lives,” he said. “As we go through this park and we get to see the new rocket park out there, keep in mind that this is a part of our history, of our country. It is providing defense for our country. It has given us space exploration.

“It has put a man on the moon and now looking forward to going to Mars and beyond. All of this is a part of it.”

Once the renovation of Rocket Park is completed, it will include an amphitheater for educational experiences and community events, and greener, guest-friendly spaces.

Another important addition to Rocket Park will be a section of the SLS Core Stage Pathfinder, a mock-up that matches the size, weight, and center of gravity of the Space Launch System managed by Marshall Space Flight Center.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said the city is the birthplace of NASA and the Spaceline signifies hustle and progression.

“Now we’re putting together the SLS that is one of the heaviest lift rocket engines ever, ever to be put on Earth,” he said. “And it just shows the progression of what has been accomplished out of Marshall’s Space Flight Center right here at Redstone Arsenal.”

The Pathfinder was used at Kennedy Space Center and other NASA centers to practice handling an actual vehicle. The segment will illustrate the massive size of the SLS launch vehicle and help tell the story of the Rocket City’s current and ongoing role in space exploration.

Additionally, officials are planning to dedicate the Marshall Retirees Association’s Space Exploration Honor Wall in October. The wall will include the more than 21,000 names of local people who have supported space exploration as employees of the Marshall Space Flight Center and companies that work with NASA.

John Allen, CEO of the Huntsville Committee of 100, said the names on the Honor Wall laid the foundation for today.

“The honor wall is representative of the foundational people that built this community. It’s a testimony to their hard work and effort,” he said. “I’ve said before, we’ve pencil whipped the Saturn 5 to the moon. The engineers and scientists and all the supporting personnel that worked on it and numerous other history-making missions that were built and supported here in Huntsville are reflected on this wall.

“We can’t do what we were doing today without that foundation many years ago from these individuals.”

Additional work on the Spaceline will continue for the next few months, including the completion of the space shuttle Pathfinder restoration project. Once complete, the orbiter will be placed back on the full shuttle stack, returning that icon to the city’s Spaceline.

This story originally appeared in 256 Today.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle is running unopposed after qualifying for the race ended Tuesday. Barring a highly unlikely write-in campaign, Battle will be re-elected to his fifth term after the municipal election Aug. 27.

Battle received the news he would have no opponent at a campaign event in downtown, Huntsville calling it “unprecedented.”

“We’ve never run a campaign unopposed before,” said Battle. “But we’re going to tell our story again and run our campaign.”

Battle, 68, was first elected in 2008 and has served four terms. In the 2020 election, he garnered close to 80% of the vote. He has served 16 years in office.

At his campaign kickoff event last October, Battle highlighted Huntsville’s 14 straight Triple-A bond ratings. Since taking office, Battle said he has focused on running the city on a balanced budget, aiming to increase efficiency and transparency throughout the process.

The consistently excellent bond ratings and overall fiscal health of the city are a testament to the success of the administration’s money management methods, he said.

Battle said more than 41,000 jobs have been recruited to the Huntsville area in the last 15 years. Working with officials across the region, Battle helped recruit companies such as Blue Origin, Polaris, GE Aviation, Facebook, and others, particularly the groundbreaking Mazda-Toyota partnership.

As a result, Huntsville has an unemployment rate of 1.7% and was recently named the No. 1 job market in the nation.

At Tuesday’s campaign event in the offices of MartinFed, Battle thanked his supporters, saying the people of Huntsville have been the key to the city’s success.

“We are very excited and each of you are part of Huntsville’s success. Each of you are part of the success the city has become,” said Battle. “Each of you can make a difference in this city. And if you’ve made the difference, you’ve made it very easy to govern the city and to make sure that the city continues to go forward. And then we continue to do the right things.

“Thank you for being part of what makes this a great city and and thank you for your support.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

The Toyota powerplant manufacturing facility in Huntsville has turned into an engine powerhouse.

And, it continues to help drive the area economy.

Toyota Alabama is expanding once again, the company announced, with a $282 million investment project that will create more than 350 high-quality jobs with long-term stability.

The growth project pushes the total investment in Toyota Alabama to more than $1.7 billion and affirms the automaker’s commitment to reinvesting profits in its U.S. operations.

“Toyota has been a critical partner within Alabama’s growing auto industry for over two decades, launching multiple expansions that have increased the Huntsville facility’s production capabilities and its superb workforce,” said Gov. Kay Ivey. “This new investment project will build on the great legacy of Toyota’s Alabama engine plant and create even more new opportunities for the area’s citizens.”

Production began at the plant in north Huntsville in 2003 and this venture adds more lines for drivetrain products.

“Thanks to our Alabama team members’ daily commitment to quality and continuous improvement, we know they can rise to the challenge of all-new production lines,” said Toyota Alabama President Jason Puckett. “The new lines will further increase the plant’s flexibility and reaffirm Toyota’s commitment to our team and community.”

Huntsville area officials welcomed Toyota’s re-investment in the facility.

“This is great news for Toyota and for the Huntsville community,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “The addition of drivetrain products to Toyota Alabama continues the company’s legacy of staying on the forefront of industry needs, which in turn, provides more employment opportunities for North Alabama.”

Mac McCutcheon, chairman of the Madison County Commission, said Toyota’s growth project will have a significant economic impact on the region.

“Toyota is and has been a dependable economic partner for the State of Alabama and Madison County,” he said. “Toyota provides good-paying jobs for their employees and a workforce that is second to none, and we are excited to support this new project that will create more than 350 new jobs and an investment of $282 million for the State of Alabama and Madison County.

“Thank you, Toyota, for investing in Madison County and providing a better quality of life for the residents in our communities.”

Toyota Alabama is the company’s largest engine producer in North America, employing more than 2,000 team members who assembled more than 770,000 engines in 2023.

“I’ve been a part of building high-quality Toyota engines for eight years, and I’m excited for the opportunity to bring new products to our plant,” said Marcus Calhoun, a Toyota Alabama team leader. “Toyota was my first job in manufacturing, and now I lead my own team. I’m ready to help both current and future team members learn the skills they’ll need for this project.”

Toyota Alabama supplies engines to seven Toyota vehicle plants in North America. The Huntsville-assembled engines power the Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, as well as the Corolla Cross, which is assembled at the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing USA plant in Huntsville.

“Toyota Alabama has a long track record of success, and we’re proud of the workforce in Huntsville that has helped make possible all the milestones achieved there,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “This significant new investment in Alabama will once again help power Toyota’s strategic efforts to prepare for the future in a fast-changing industry.”

Toyota Alabama is hiring. To learn more, visit the Toyota Alabama careers website.

This story originally appeared in 256 Today.

All the luminaries past and present were there.

There were mayors, council members, civic leaders, movers and shakers and just plain ol’ interested citizens.

All convened in the downtown square for a ribbon-cutting ceremony befitting what has become one of the country’s cool places to live and work.

The new Huntsville City Hall, a seven-story project years in the making that took two years to build, officially opened for business on a hot, sunny Tuesday.

Roads were blocked off to accommodate the sizable crowd that gathered at the corner of Jefferson Street and Fountain Circle for what was called a “100-year” building that replaced the old one that lasted 60.

“Today, we are turning a page in municipal government,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “We are proud to present the citizens of Huntsville a municipal building that will last us for the next 100 years.

“This is a building that is worthy of this community and our reputation as a modern, forward-thinking smart city.”

Among those in attendance were former Mayors Loretta Spencer and Steve Hettinger. Along with Battle, speakers included City Council President David Little, City Administrator John Hamilton, General Services Director Ricky Wilkinson, Goodwyn Mills Cawood CEO Jeffrey Brewer, Turner Construction Company VP and General Manager Brendan McCormick and Arts Huntsville Executive Director Allison Dillon-Jauken.

The former city hall, which will be demolished with the site ticketed for Big Spring Park greenspace expansion, was not only in need of repair it didn’t meet the needs of Huntsville’s growth.

Huntsville’s new center of municipal government will bring departments that frequently interact with the public under one roof to provide efficient services for residents and businesspeople who previously had to visit multiple locations to conduct business with the city.

Battle said the old sight had become an eyesore of sorts on the inside when doing business with possible clients.

“They said you wouldn’t know we were a top city by the looks of the offices. And they were right,” Battle said. “Our old city hall lasted 60 years and it’s not a bad run. At one time, it even housed a jail and police and fire departments. And once we outgrew that building, you had to move offices to separate locations throughout the city.

“Today, that chapter’s over.”

CITY HALL BY FLOOR:

First: Huntsville-Madison County EMA, Print Shop, Inspections, Natural Resources, Fire Marshall
Second: Council Chambers, Human Resources, Administration
Third: Finance, City Clerk, Community Development
Fourth; Planning/GIS; Engineering, Urban Development
Fifth: General Services, Legal, ITS
Sixth: City Council, Conference/Training Space
Seventh: Office of the Mayor, Communications, DEI

City Hall sixth floor terrace (256 Today)

Through a collaboration with ArtsHuntsville, nine pieces of public art are displayed throughout the building to enhance the community’s cultural experience. Each piece, through the artist’s interpretation, tells Huntsville’s story and spotlights characteristics that make the city unique.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the city hosted an open house for attendees to explore the building and enjoy the art pieces.

Courtesy of 256 Today.

On Thursday, Alabama Ethics Commissioner Stan McDonald appeared on the Jeff Poor Show and admitted that he has made contributions to political campaigns while serving as one of the three commissioners.

Following that admission, State Rep. Matt Simpson (R-Daphne) interviewed on the same program two hours later and said that McDonald admitted to committing a felony under the law Simpson is making an effort to reform. His proposal has been sharply criticized by McDonald.

Simpson says the current state ethics laws are overly complex and in need of reform. He used McDonald’s situation to make his case.

“It is tough for me to see how you can come on the radio and say that everybody understands the ethics law when you yourself don’t understand the law,” Simpson told Yellowhammer News.

Simpson explained that the Code of Alabama forbids members of the ethics commission, attorneys for the commission, or staff of the commission to engage in partisan political activities and that that is a felony punishable by up to ten years in prison.

When asked if McDonald’s crime was a felony under Simpson’s rewrite of the ethics laws, “No, it is not,” Simpson said. “I believe that the offense is not serious enough for prison time. I believe it should be handled as a violation civilly and administratively.”

McDonald, an attorney and former judge in Limestone County, has ten contributions to state candidates including State Sen. Sam Givhan (R-Huntsville), Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Alabama Attorney General candidate Alice Martin, former Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon (R-Monrovia), and the Republican Parties of both Limestone and Madison Counties.

McDonald is an Athens attorney and a former probate judge in Limestone County. He was an active political advisor to both U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and former U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville). McDonald was appointed to serve on the Alabama Ethics Commission in 2019.

McDonald’s five-year appointment was unanimously confirmed by the State Senate.

Former Alabama Governor Fob James appointed McDonald as an Administrative Law Judge for the State Health Planning and Development Agency. Former Alabama Attorney General Jeff Sessions named him as a Special Assistant to the Attorney General on behalf of the Alabama Department of Transportation and former Governor Robert Bentley appointed him as probate judge in Limestone County in 2011. He did not see election in 2012.

The decision whether or not to prosecute McDonald for violating state law will be up to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall. Simpson’s bill passed the Alabama House of Representatives 79 to 9 on Tuesday.

To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors announced their support for a proposal awaiting the Alabama Legislature to increase the criminal penalties for firing into occupied homes, businesses, vehicles, rail cars, and other buildings from a Class B felony to a Class A felony.

The current proposal, HB174, is currently waiting for a full vote of the Alabama House.

“As mayors, fighting crime and working to keep our communities safe is always our top priority,” said the Alabama Big 10 Mayors. “Too often, we see gun violence resulting in innocent victims, including children. As a state, we should do all we can to hold those responsible accountable.”

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors represent the ten largest cities in the state: Auburn, Birmingham, Decatur, Dothan, Hoover, Huntsville, Madison, Mobile, Montgomery, and Tuscaloosa.

“It isn’t the only part of the solution, but increasing penalties for criminals is a key part of curbing gun violence in our communities. Actions have consequences, and the consequences for firing blindly into homes and cars should be met with a strong response from prosecutors and law enforcement.”

“As mayors, there’s nothing more important to us than public safety, and we know that members of the Legislature feel the same way. We fully support them as they work on this issue to help bring more law and order to communities across our state.”

The legislation, filed by state Rep. Barbara Drummond (D-Mobile), was brought forward in response to multiple gang related shooting across Alabama.

“These senseless murders of innocent people, they’ve got to stop,” Drummond said.

“I am so tired of going to funerals of people who are innocent who happen to be praying in a church, who happen to be laying on their couch in their house, and they are just there, and they are dying by the hands of young people who are actually little thugs that keep re-offending in our community.”

The Alabama Big 10 Mayors includes Auburn Mayor Ron Anders, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Decatur Mayor Tab Bowling, Dothan Mayor Mark Saliba, Hoover Mayor Frank Brocato, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Madison Mayor Paul Finley, Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed, and Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.

What was once a condemned, otherwise vacant eyesore of a building at the corner of Wynn Drive and Bradford is now a unique and vibrant educational facility that has quickly become a source of pride among city and state movers and shakers.

The Alabama School for Cyber, Technology, and Engineering drew dignitaries, luminaries and a group of high-achieving students for a ceremony to celebrate the four-year old school’s latest endeavor – a groundbreaking ceremony Friday morning for the Sentinel Center.

The student activities center will include a 1,100-seat gymnasium for the school’s volleyball and basketball teams, two sports among 16 that ASCTE fields.

Among its student body of 330, the school has produced two perfect SAT scores, 50 scores of 30 or more on the ACT, and five national merit semifinalist/finalists but interests aren’t confined to the classrooms at its three-story academic facility.

“Our students have so much to give more than just the expertise that they’re learning inside those classrooms,’’ said Matt Massey, school president who also coaches tennis, said to the gathered crowd inside the academic building.

The event attracted board members and politicians from Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and Councilman John Meredith to State Sen. Arthur Orr.

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville addressed a VIP breakfast prior to the groundbreaking.

“Our kids are the greatest asset we have,” Sen. Tuberville (R-Auburn) said.

“We have an obligation to make sure they are set up for success. The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering is a great example of school choice at work. Every child is unique, and parents should be empowered to choose a school that works best for them. I look forward to meeting the next generation of cyber security experts, engineers, and scientists who graduate from ASCTE.”

One of the speakers at the ceremony was Alicia Ryan, president of the ASCTE Foundation board of directors. She’s been with the project, which is currently the only school of its kind in the nation and ranked in the top 1 percent academically in the country, since inception.

At the beginning, she said, she figured the brainy students wouldn’t be interested in extracurricular activities, particularly sports. But, with the Sentinel Center about to rise next to the dormitory, planning will soon turn to adding a soccer field on the campus.

“Our studies showed that they spent most of their time on video games,” she said. “We never dreamed we would need athletics. So I encourage all of you to think bigger.”

In addition to the 16 athletic programs, the school has 25 clubs that range from music to drama and 100% of the students is involved in at least one of the 41.

“What we learned was that once they came to school,” Ryan said, “was that they found their tribe.”

Battle said the emergence of ASCTE reflects the Rocket City’s current growth.

“We were at the breakfast and we were talking about people coming here and want a benchmark against Huntsville, wanting a benchmark to the school and see how we did it,” he said. “What’s the secret sauce? I say the secret sauce here is the people. The secret sauce is the people sitting out there in those chairs whose companies have given money so that we have the bricks and mortar to be able to do this school.

“The secret sauce is these young people who came here and they uprooted from their homes. They came here for an education. When you get the best education you can have the best. The secret sauce is this faculty who is sitting here and the administration that Matt has put together, and they are one of the best administrations you can find. The secret sauce also comes about somewhat in leadership.”

Massey pointed out how the school’s winter sports programs would be practicing Friday at four off-campus locations. That won’t be the case in the near future.

“We’ll have ’em right here,” he said. “It makes all the difference.”

Also, tuition is free at the school which has students from all across the state.

“Huntsville is a shining star, with or without this school,” Orr said. “The state already has several other magnet schools, but because of many (donors, ASCTE) did happen. And it is happening because of the care and commitment of our supporters and sustainers who want our students to be challenged and to receive the best education that they can to achieve the fullest of their God-given capabilities.

“This school is making a difference in the lives of its people, and it’s making a difference in all of our future.”

Courtesy of 256 Today.

Boeing held a ceremonial groundbreaking Monday for a $100 million plant expansion expected to increase production for a Patriot missile system component by some 30%.

The Patriot Missile system uses sophisticated technology to shoots down rockets, aircraft, and enemy incoming missiles. The Boeing-built Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC-3) seeker provides guidance data to the PAC-3 interceptor used by the Patriot surface-to-air defense system, enabling it to identify, track and intercept advanced air and missile threats.

“The PAC-3 seeker is a critical air and missile defense capability, and this site expansion will allow us to significantly ramp up production to support the U.S. military, allies and international partners who rely on it,” said Debbie Barnett, vice president of Strategic Missile & Defense Systems. “Our proven seeker enables the life-saving precision accuracy of the Patriot system.

“I can’t overstate the importance of our team’s work in Huntsville and the mission we support.”

Strong said he’s visited with American troops and allies who are protected by the Patriot Advanced Capability (PAC-3) missile system.

“They literally are saving lives,” U.S. Rep. Dale Strong said. “The capabilities, and of course, the demand for the PAC-3 is an effective weapon. That’s why we need more to be produced and this is where to do it.”

Strong (R-Huntsville) said the relationship between Boeing and Alabama is, “not a new relationship. They understand the skill set we have here.”

“This is the best place in the nation for the aerospace and defense industry,” Strong said. “Thank you to Boeing and its employees for what you do here. Without the work you do here lives would be lost.”

“The work we do right here on this campus in Huntsville, Alabama really matters – it really matters to a lot of people,” said Jim Bryan, the director of Integrated Air and Missile Defense programs at Boeing. “The PAC-3 Seeker is battle-tested and is designed to defend against a wide range of air and missile threats.

“It is not an overstatement to say that the Patriot missile saves lives. That is also why we have such a large contingent of veteran employees who, like myself, chose to continue to serve this country after our service in the armed forces.”

Boeing said the $100 million expansion will increase the size of the plant from 60,000 square feet to more 90,000.

Since 2021, Boeing has been awarded more than $2 billion in contracts for seeker production, as well as to develop a next-generation seeker that is digitally-engineered to ensure effectiveness against evolving threats.

Boeing has worked as a subcontractor for Lockheed Martin on the Patriot for 20 years.

A number of state leaders were present at the groundbreaking. In addition to Strong, State Reps. Parker Moore (R-Hartselle) and Terry Collins (R-Decatur) were in attendance as was Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon, Alabama Commerce Secretary Greg Canfield, and Business Council of Alabama (BCA) Executive Vice President Clay Scofield.

Barnett announced that Boeing’s higher education initiatives include recently awarding $415,000 in grants for scholarships, maintaining technology labs and supporting workforce development programs at seven higher education institutions in Alabama.

The colleges receiving the grants are Alabama A&M University, Auburn University, Calhoun Community College, J.F. Drake State Technical College, Tuskegee University, the University of Alabama, and the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

The Boeing plant expansion is expected to open in early 2027. It is projected to increase PAC-3 Seeker production at the Huntsville plant by 30%.

To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com

7. 2018 GOP candidate for governor and multi-term successful mayor of Huntsville Tommy Battle is running for re-election by touting the continuing success of the growing Alabama city. Huntsville is Alabama’s largest city and Battle touted the city’s 14 straight Triple-A bond ratings; 41,000 jobs created; 1.7% unemployment rate; $1 billion spent on roads, and all the lists touting Huntsville as the best place to live, work, and play.

6. As predicted, national Democrats and LGBTQ groups are now trying to pump money into a special Alabama election involving a male-to-female transgender person running for the State House. These groups want a “first” very badly but establishment Democrats in Alabama want to stop that.

5. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is warning that, if the border is not secured, we are inviting terrorist killers onto American soil since we have let millions illegal immigrants into the country since President Joe Biden came into office. Marshall says, “Crime is on the forefront of every American’s mind, and with illegal aliens flooding through Biden’s porous border, the administration has likely invited cartel members, traffickers, and terrorists into our backyard.”

4. Carlee Russell sparked a hunt for her, a super-fast toddler, and whoever may have abducted her after she stupidly staged an abduction. Now, a judge in Birmingham wants her to spend a year in jail and pay an $18,000 fine after being found guilty. Seems about right.

3. Facing unclever Internet trolls, a hateful former head of the CIA, and absurd reporters-turned-useful idiots, U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville continues to push back on claims he is harming military readiness but the rhetoric continues. On a new front, geniuses at Newsweek found a video of Tuberville falling down 9 years ago, this has caused quite the gleeful reaction from people who defend President Joe Biden falling down all the time.

2. The American media and their Democrats are having a hard time coming to grips with the rising anti-Semitism and Palestinian support in their ranks. MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell had the gall to ask a woman with children who were abducted into Gaza, and now face certain death, how she feels about Gaza being bombed while a normally preening U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) couldn’t be bothered to condemn the vile words of his colleagues.

1. There is still no Speaker of the House, even though U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) is leading the way with a victory in the closed-door caucus meeting. Scalise beat Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and a vote was set for yesterday but some Republicans are throwing a wrench in those plans. Alabama’s U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) is one of many still voting for Jordan even as Jordan plans to nominate Scalise.

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Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and on Talk 99.5 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The Space & Missile Defense Symposium launched its 26th year of hosting military and industry professionals in Huntsville, bringing together a commitment to keeping Americans safe and the cutting-edge technology that makes it possible.

Briefings from senior Department of Defense officials are held in the same building as a massive showcase floor where more than 250 organizations showcase their latest work to the public.

“Throughout the next several days, we’re looking forward to sharing how we’re working day in and day out to ensure 24/7/365 protection of the U.S. and our allies and partners around the world,” Lt. Gen. Daniel Karbler of Army Space and Missile Defense Command told the crowd.

When it comes to the connection between both domains – space and missile defense – a direct exchange is crystal clear, Karbler said.

“Space is a key domain for warfare in the 21st century and beyond,” he said. “Space capabilities provide neighbors with options to defeat, destroy, disrupt, deny, or manipulate enemy networks information and decision making.”

On the other side of the Von Braun Center, companies are showing off their latest technologies with promise to accomplish that mission – and look really cool in the process.

While making the rounds, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said, “We’ve got 6,500 people scheduled to be in the city of Huntsville and they’re in our sweet spot. Which is technology, aerospace, and missile defense.

“Those 6,500 people – half of them already live here, the other half, maybe they should have a presence here. So we’re talking to them about how to come and be part of our community.”

Leidos is highlighting a host of capabilities this year at SMD, including hypersonic systems, force protection, national security space, and digital infrastructure. The company’s hypersonics programs boast three services spanning support of the US Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Parsons Corp. was among exhibitors highlighting their product area offerings with a focus on building strength through acquisitions and innovation.

“We’re all about transforming the battlespace where we take various unique technology capabilities into different forms and fashions to create new capabilities,” said James Lackey, who leads Parsons’ Defense and Intelligence Mission Solutions Sector.

Among those capabilities include modeling and simulation technology like the DYSE system and ground-based direct and energy laser systems like ZEUS.

“Here at Space & Missile Defense, that’s our core business: Space. Whether you’re talking space situational awareness, space payload integration or ground command and control – we work across the board,” Lackey said. “We have a big presence here in Huntsville, in the North Alabama area, we have about $600 million worth of business in North Alabama.”

Part of that North Alabama landscape sits the Alabama Cyber School of Technology, Engineering and Math. A public charter school, the first of its kind in the United States, gives Alabama high school students an unparalleled advantage – partly thanks to close proximity.

“Our schoolwork is so close with our space and missile defense industry partners here and integral to the education of the STEAM, embedding all these concepts and ideas into the curriculum that our students are learning,” Matt Massey, president of ACSTE said, pointing out the opportunities students have to get firsthand experience through internships.

“So it’s great to be here to connect with them in the south and it makes us very relevant and nimble and essential to grow into defense innovation.”

Torch Technologies was also showcasing the work being done in Huntsville.

“Torch brings a history of digital engineering that includes modeling and simulation. We do that across almost all of the Army missile programs for more than 20 years,” said Sonny Fey, a Torch Technologies vice president. “We have two large facilities, called our tactical integration and prototyping centers, where we can do everything from optical lab work, we fly UAVs from there.”

Also on familiar territory this week is the University of Alabama in Huntsville. With its world-class degree programs sending off graduates who land in this industry continually – UAH is showcasing their teaching and research capabilities in hypersonics, Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, aerial systems and more.

UAH research regularly ranks among the top 20 universities in research funded by NASA and the Department of Defense.

“UAH faculty, researchers and students embrace the challenges on display at SMD,” Dr. Robert Lindquist, UAH vice president for Research and Economic Development said. “The partnerships created between UAH and the SMD community provide local opportunities that have global impact and help develop a high-quality technical workforce that drives a growing economy.”

Daniel Wilson is an attorney for Butler Snow. The firm’s Government and Regulatory Practice group supports many of the companies showcasing at SMD this week – making them a perfect sponsor for the event. He said the annual symposium in Huntsville is the flagship of its kind.

“Cutting-edge technology, great educational and relationship building opportunities, hearing from top officials. SMD really brings it all together,” Wilson said. “It’s an honor to support this industry and the people who go to work every day focused on making this country safer and delivering high-quality innovation.”

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

Alabama leaders across the local, state and federal levels are sharing their appreciation and best wishes for Jody Singer after she announced her retirement Monday from a 38-year career with NASA.

Singer has served as director of the Marshall Space Flight Center since 2018 – she was the NASA center’s first female director. Her retirement is effective July 29.

As director, Singer managed one of NASA’s largest field installations, with nearly 7,000 employees and contractors with an annual budget of approximately $5 billion.

According to a news release, Singer joined NASA in 1985 as an intern. She came onboard the Space Shuttle Program in 1986 as an engineer and was the first female project manager for the reusable solid rocket booster project before serving as deputy manager of the Space Shuttle Propulsion Office until the program’s retirement. Cumulatively, Jody was part of 110 space shuttle launches.

She’s a graduate of the University of Alabama and was named a 2019 Woman of Impact by Yellowhammer News.

At that time, she said, “Reach for your dreams, work hard, and don’t give up — even if it gets hard.”

“Reflecting on my own career, I know I would not have gotten where I am today without the guidance of others. So I would also say to women, seek out mentors and peers to help you grow into the leaders they are destined to become! The sky is the limit – literally.”

That mentality has inspired admiration from many state leaders:

During a trailblazing 38-year career at @NASA, Jody Singer has reached for the stars every single day. Alabama is grateful for her service to our nation and her leadership at @NASA_Marshall. Please join me in wishing her all the best in her well-deserved retirement! https://t.co/2qA7vOrTN6

— Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) July 17, 2023

🧵🚀 (1/3) From becoming the first female center director at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville to leading her team through the successful Artemis I mission, Jody Singer’s leadership has taken space exploration to new heights.https://t.co/loEasqjv5R

— Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) July 17, 2023

Congratulations, Jody, on a 38-year long career dedicated to servant leadership, innovation, and the future of space exploration. Your legacy at ⁦@NASA_Marshall⁩ will continue to inspire generations to come! https://t.co/uhwI7CzVEL

— Dale W. Strong (@RepDaleStrong) July 17, 2023

I would like to congratulate Director Jody Singer of @NASA_Marshall on her retirement. We thank you for your years of service to the future of space exploration and American excellence.

— Robert Aderholt (@Robert_Aderholt) July 17, 2023

I want to congratulate Jody on her retirement and immense contribution to the State of Alabama. Under her guidance, we’re on the cusp of sending more astronauts to the moon, and we are sincerely thankful for her service to our country and our state. https://t.co/l0zsDeH4sr

— Nathaniel Ledbetter (@RepLedbetter) July 17, 2023

After 38 years of dedication to NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, Jody Singer’s vision for one of NASA’s largest field installations will be seen and felt for many years to come.

Her service to the MSFC and the City of Huntsville has been unmatched. https://t.co/xITQRDgWnA

— Tommy Battle (@TommyBattle) July 17, 2023

Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270

7. Those who are concerned about artificial intelligence and its future impact on our society got another reason to be concerned as Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) used AI to deliver his remarks to the Senate Judiciary Committee. The AI did not serve in Vietnam either, but did not lie about it, so it is not a perfect technology, yet.

6. Huntsville absolutely plummets on the list of “Best” cities to live in the United States from No. 1 all the way down to No. 2, with Green Bay(?) taking over that top slot. Mayor Tommy Battle should resign in shame. Other Alabama cities ranked as well, Birmingham was at No. 80 and Montgomery came in at No. 94; Mobile was the last Alabama city at No. 115. Green Bay?

5. The Alabama State House has passed a bill that would require phone manufacturers to activate a porn blocker on cell phones and rejected a substitute that would have required porn sites to use age verification for their sites in Alabama, as some other states do.

4. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) excoriated the Secretary of Defense and told him to “cut through the politics” and move Space Command HQ to Redstone Arsenal. Other leaders continue pleading with President Joe Biden to ignore the politics and move Space Command HQ to Alabama.

3. Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth announced he has the support of 100 of 105 lawmakers in the Alabama State House of Representatives and 35 of 35 Alabama state senators as sponsors for a “bill that cuts the state sales tax on groceries and begins the process of abolishing it altogether.”

2. Adult Alabama Democrats protested for the right of parents to change the gender of their children and for obese men in women’s swimsuits, covered in sequins, to gyrate in front of children in libraries, public schools, and bars. They will lose this fight.

1. The media and their Democrats don’t seem to keen on accepting the results of the Durham report and will continue suggesting that former President Donald Trump is a Russian asset. If Republicans did this, they would be fact-checked and the media would declare these opinions to be a threat to democracy or something.

LISTEN HERE:

Dale Jackson is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and on Talk 99.5 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Alabama political leaders are criticizing President Joe Biden’s reported attempt to keep Space Command Headquarters in Colorado instead of moving it to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville.

Monday, in a report by NBC News, unnamed officials “close to the process” say the White House is actively seeking to “reverse” the decision to locate U.S. Space Command’s headquarters to Alabama. The report alleges the move is all about the state’s strict abortion laws.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle reacted to the news by criticizing Biden for putting “partisan politics” over national security.

https://twitter.com/TommyBattle/status/1658315758433103872?s=20

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) slammed the move, saying this is an attempt to just “punish conservative states.”

“If it is now Department of Defense policy to punish conservative states implementing the will of their voters,” Strong said in a statement. “I’d suggest that Texas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Florida, Tennessee, Arizona, Louisiana, Wyoming, Arkansas, Kentucky, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Idaho, and Utah start calling the Pentagon to ask if they should be worried about their installations.”

I’ve seen all the reviews and reports on the basing process – but don’t remember access to late-term abortions being one of the 21 criteria used to evaluate the sites. https://t.co/PrMQ0xdtDG

— Dale W. Strong (@RepDaleStrong) May 15, 2023

Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth also condemned Biden and highlighted the fact that the internal reviews showed Huntsville as the best place for the new headquarters.

https://twitter.com/willainsworthAL/status/1658272123645771778?s=20

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) also pointed to the process that led to Huntsville being chosen as the new location.

https://twitter.com/SenTuberville/status/1658272568766263297?s=20

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) said the President is making decisions that are a threat to national security.

“Locating the permanent Space Command Headquarters on Redstone Arsenal undoubtedly remains in the best national security interest of the United States,” Britt said. “President Biden should allow the Air Force to proceed with doing its job. Alabama’s world class aerospace and defense workforce capabilities, and synergies stand ready to fulfill the mission and strengthen our national security long into the future.”

https://twitter.com/SenKatieBritt/status/1658268413897191425?s=20

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on Twitter @Yaffee

Huntsville, already a leader in national defense, will become home to Marathon Robotics, the country’s first autonomous ground robot production facility for military and police training.

The technology is known as an Autonomous Robotic Training System – realistic mannequins on armored robots. They move independently, flinching or lying down when shot, and can also scream as they run run for cover or charge toward shooters – as in military and law enforcement.

The goal of the system is to increase combat readiness for the military and members of law enforcement throughout the country.

“These robots solve a fundamental problem for militaries and law enforcement — the ONLY time they practice shooting bullets at realistic moving targets is in a real firefight,” said company President Ralph Petroff.

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle expressed his appreciation for Petroff’s decision to open the facility in the city.

“I want to thank Marathon for their investment in our city,” he said. “This technology was a perfect candidate for the Alabama Robotic Technology Park, and now we’re proud they’ve chosen to expand in Huntsville’s Cummings Research Park.

“Marathon is a great example of how industry supports Redstone Arsenal, our economy and our armed forces.”

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong, whose district includes Huntsville, said Marathon will play a vital role in defense.

“Alabama is the best place in the nation for businesses supporting America’s aerospace, aviation and defense communities,” he said. “I’ve had the opportunity to practice shooting these robots.

“Before Marathon, we asked the men and women of our armed forces to go to foreign lands and fight after having only shot at a piece of paper or simple pop-up targets. This new facility highlights Marathon’s commitment to ensuring the safety of America and to investing in our community.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.