Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in North Alabama
‘A delusional farce’
A $250 million lawsuit against Madison County has led to more than a few head scratches around the state. Kevin and Robert Matthews are claiming a 2001 court-approved sale of 22 acres of former family land in Madison County was not valid. The land was later developed into a retail space. With the original Probate Judge from the case now departed, much of the brothers’ ire has fallen to current Madison County Probate Judge Frank Barger and Conservator Doug Martinson II. A source familiar with the case called it “a delusional farce.”
Big strides for BCA
Look for big things from The Business Council of Alabama (BCA) after they reached a historical fundraising record for their PAC this year. For the first time in BCA history, the 1 million mark was surpassed, raising over $1.1 million to support ProgressPAC and their Campaign ‘26 initiative. Campaign 2026 has been described as an aggressive, sophisticated, ultra-targeted, pro-business political strategy that will recruit, retain, finance and elect candidates from the bottom of the ticket to the very top. BCA is the state’s largest business association.
Party patter
It’s been a busy Christmas party circuit this holiday season. Amongst the merry making there’s also been quite a bit tantalizing talk. One captivating conversation at a downtown Huntsville Christmas party included a city council member airing frustrations with the Committee of 100 and their recent endorsements. As the conversation debated the effectiveness of the Committee of 100 for the business community, it was revealed a prominent C-level Research Park executive is looking at starting a business advocacy group.
NYE in the River City
It seems Decatur is the place to be this New Year’s Eve. The new Banksy Event Venue is hosting a NYE bash called Banksy Bets on Broadway featuring a casino night “with a Times Square twist.” Located in historical downtown Decatur, the Banksy Event Venue promises an evening of blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker with play money along with live music, door prizes, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a champagne toast to the New Year at midnight. Organizers tell us there are still tickets available.
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