Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in North Alabama
Gudger win a surprise? “Not really”
Was State Sen. Garlan Gudger’s win for pro tem of the Alabama Senate over Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro) a surprise? Not really, according to one Montgomery insider. “Livingston was hesitant to bring gaming back for a vote, whereas Gudger is more open to it,” he said. Gudger (R-Cullman) was vocal last summer about his belief gaming would come up again in the 2025 session.
Another hat tossed in the Decatur mayoral ring?
We hear local businessman Chase Grisham is being heavily urged to run for mayor of Decatur. Grisham reportedly has yet to make a decision but already has a strong set of supporters. Mayor Tab Bowling announced this year he would not be running again. So far, four people have announced their intentions to run: Kent Lawrence, Justin Weil, Butch Matthews and Suzie Wiley. Lawrence is a political newcomer but reportedly favored by many on the council. Weil announced in August and has been active on social media, and Matthews is a former city councilman. Wiley, owner of local TV station WYAM 51, announced her plans in September. A Decatur insider reports Lawrence seems to be the early frontrunner but “no matter what, voters will be happy to see new leadership.” Decatur’s municipal elections are set for 2025.
Madison balks on Toyota Field vote
What had looked like smooth sailing for the left field addition to Toyota Field seems to have hit a snag. The Madison City Council was expected to vote at a special called meeting Wednesday on a proposed four-story addition that would include more seating and group areas in addition to the Major League Baseball-required new visitors clubhouse. However, that meeting was cancelled and indications are that it may be January before the issue is brought up for a vote. City Hall insiders say more time is needed to examine possible funding alternates and other possible ways to structure the deal.
Broadcast media downsizing
End-of-year layoffs have hit a number of broadcast rooms in the Tennessee Valley. iHeartMedia and Cumulus Media have reportedly been slashing their workforces across the country. Longtime WZYP personality and Operations Manager Steve Smith was let go this past week after 20 years with Cumulus. Meanwhile, numerous Huntsville TV newsrooms are also feeling the crunch as production staff as well as on-air talent have been dismissed. One local media personality says, “Even though the Huntsville market here is healthy, the local teams are bearing the brunt of broader media constraints.”
Wilson Park lights up
The annual lighting of Wilson Park in Florence gets underway Saturday. Held at arguably the prettiest park in North Alabama, the annual tradition will kick off at 5 p.m. and includes a Library Bike Parade and choir performance. Established in 1818, Wilson Park is part of Florence’s picture perfect downtown area and a must-see for out of town visitors.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our email newsletter to have all our smart stories delivered to your inbox.
