Parole Board Chair's Term Ends: What's Next?

Heads up, ChumCity citizens! Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles Chair Leigh Gwathney's term is wrapping up this week, sparking buzz about who's next in line to lead the board. Governor Kay Ivey tapped Gwathney back in 2019 for a six-year gig, which is now officially over.

How the Leader is Chosen

Here's the lowdown: Alabama law dictates that the Governor picks parole board members with the Senate's thumbs-up. A three-member nominating committee – featuring big names like Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth and House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter – is in charge of sending a list of five qualified folks to the Governor. The Governor then has ten days to make the big decision.

Word on the street (via Alabama Daily News) is that the committee hasn't confirmed if that list is ready or when they'll be meeting.

What Happens in the Meantime?

Don't worry, it sounds like Gwathney could stick around until her replacement is officially named and confirmed. Even though the Senate has to give the nod to board appointments, state law allows appointees to keep serving while they're waiting for that confirmation. And since the Legislature isn't back in session until 2026, things might stay the same for a bit.

Increased Scrutiny

The parole board has been under the microscope lately, with lawmakers raising eyebrows about declining parole approvals, a lack of transparency, and not sticking to their own rules. This has led to oversight measures, linking budget bucks to updated guidelines, and demands for more accountability.

Reform Efforts

Yellowhammer News previously reported on Senate Bill 324, which aimed to shake things up by expanding the board, giving the board the power to choose its chair, and mandating Senate confirmation for all appointments. While it didn't pass, it shows the push for change.

Concerns About Compliance

Lawmakers have complained about slow responses to inquiries and outdated parole guidelines. They're not just worried about the number of paroles granted but also about the board's low rate of following its own guidelines. In fiscal year 2024, the board had a 20% parole grant rate and a guideline conformance rate of about 20%, even though internal recommendations suggested a higher rate.

Uncertain Future

So, as we wait for the appointment process to unfold, the future of the parole board and parole policy in Alabama remains up in the air.

Local Radio Still Rocking in Alabama!

Forget podcasts for a minute, because WQSB 105.1 (modern country), WKXX 102.9 (classic country), and Power 107.5 (Christian) are proving that good ol' fashioned radio is alive and kicking in Alabama! These stations, part of the Yellowhammer News Radio Network, are connecting with listeners of all ages and giving back to the community.

Family Tradition and Digital Innovation

These stations have been family-owned and operated since the late 1940s! Pat Courington Jr., Jenny Courington, Sales Manager Ted McCreless, and Program Director Barry Galloway are keeping the legacy strong, expanding their reach across Marshall, DeKalb, and Etowah counties. WQSB, the main country station, blends current hits with awesome local content. "The Barry and Holli Show" is a huge draw, packed with music, celeb news, and listener call-ins – and it's even available as a podcast! They're seriously embracing the digital age with livestreams and social media.

Community Heroes

These stations aren't just about the tunes; they're all about giving back! They've snagged multiple Alabama Broadcasters Association awards, proving their dedication to the community. Their St. Jude Children's Hospital Radiothon recently raised over $226,000! Plus, they host events like Woofstock, a local dog food drive. The Radiothon, spearheaded by WQSB, involves all three stations, showcasing how teamwork makes the dream work!

Classic Country Comeback

WKXX 102.9 is bringing back the good old days! Since switching to a classic country format in January 2023, they're playing legends like George Strait and Merle Haggard. Hosted by ABBY Award-winning Shane Wilson, the station offers fun segments like "College of Classic Country Knowledge" and "The Naked Truth". Shane's passion and experience keep listeners coming back for more!

Uplifting Christian Vibes

Power 107.5 delivers positive contemporary Christian music for the whole family! Sand Mountain Broadcasting and its affiliates are mixing history, heart, and hard work to keep local radio alive and well in North Alabama. It's proof that personality, purpose, and local connection still matter!

Huntsville DOD Employee in Hot Water!

A civilian employee of the Department of Defense in Huntsville is facing some serious heat. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, she made her first court appearance Tuesday on charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents. Whoops!

What's the Deal?

Ewa Maria Ciszak, 64, is accused of knowingly nabbing classified documents and materials. She's been with the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) since January 2023 and, as part of her gig, had a security clearance and access to sensitive materials related to national defense. Big responsibility!

Secret Squirrel Shenanigans?

Court documents allege that, from around February until recently, Ciszak was allegedly removing classified docs from MDA facilities without permission. The documents were then transported to her home and car, neither of which are approved for storing such sensitive stuff. Not good.

Raid Results in Recovery

Last Wednesday, federal agents searched Ciszak's home, person, and vehicle, according to the news release. They found multiple documents marked with classification levels up to "Secret." Ouch! Apparently, some of these documents were even packed in her personal backpack and taken straight from the MDA to her house that very day. Double ouch!

Legal Eagles on the Case

Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg, U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona, and FBI Assistant Director Roman Rozhavsky dropped the news. The FBI and Air Force Office of Special Investigations are digging into the case, with help from other FBI offices and the MDA. Looks like the legal team is ready to bring the heat in the courtroom!

Big News for Alabama's Economic Growth!

Governor Kay Ivey just announced that Round 3 of the SEEDS grant program is launching July 1st! Get ready, folks, because a whopping $23.2 million is up for grabs to boost site assessment and development all over Alabama.

What's SEEDS All About?

SEEDS (Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy) is all about giving Alabama's industrial sites a major glow-up! The Alabama Department of Commerce, along with the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA), are teaming up to make our state even more competitive for game-changing economic development projects.

Get Your Application Ready!

Communities can apply for SEEDS funding once the portal opens. The deadline is September 30th, so don't delay!

SEEDS is Already Making a Difference!

The first two rounds of SEEDS funding have already supported 56 sites statewide. That's 56 communities getting the boost they need for critical site readiness!

Governor Ivey's Take

"Alabama's a leader in economic development, and keeping our sites development-ready is key," says Governor Ivey. "The SEEDS program is a smart investment, and I can't wait to see more communities shine thanks to this next round!"

What Round 3 Offers

Round 3 is here to support both site assessment (figuring out a site's potential) and site development (making targeted improvements).

Commerce Secretary Excited

Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair says, "We've seen firsthand how SEEDS can turn promising properties into contenders for job-creating projects! This new round will build on that momentum and prep Alabama's communities for long-term growth."

EDPA's Role

EDPA is a key player in making sure SEEDS investments match the state's economic development strategy.

EDPA's President Speaks

"We're thrilled to partner with Governor Ivey and the Alabama Department of Commerce," says EDPA President Miller Girvin. "SEEDS is making a real difference, and we're excited to work with local leaders to make Round 3 a huge success!"

Feds Raid Gulf Shores High School Construction Site!

Hold onto your hard hats, ChumCity! Baldwin County's buzzing after a major immigration enforcement action hit the construction site of the new Gulf Shores High School.

What Went Down?

Federal agents swarmed the site on Tuesday, June 24th, along the Foley Beach Express. FOX10 News reports a whopping 37 workers were taken into custody, suspected of being undocumented. Seems like Uncle Sam's cracking down on illegal aliens at construction sites all over the county.

Rabren's Big Projects

The project's being overseen by Rabren General Contractors (RGC), a big name in Alabama construction. Besides the high school, they're also working on the new Alabama State House, student digs at Auburn, and even the Margaritaville Resort in Orange Beach.

Escape Attempts!

Eyewitnesses say it was a tense scene. Agents used drones and lifts to reach the roof, where some workers were allegedly hiding after sealing a roof hatch. Can you believe it? People were reportedly lowering themselves with ropes, trying to make a run for it!

Official Statements

RGC released a statement saying they're "fully cooperating" with authorities. The City of Gulf Shores and Gulf Shores City Schools chimed in, saying the construction site is "under the complete control of the general contractor." Sounds like they're keeping their distance from the drama.

A First for Baldwin County?

This is reportedly the first time immigration enforcement has led to arrests at a public construction project in Baldwin County. Other private sites have been targeted, with some crazy footage of people trying to outrun the feds around a pond!

The Big Picture

The new high school is a $137 million project slated to be done in 2026. Will these arrests throw a wrench in the works? Only time will tell, ChumCity! Stay tuned for updates.