Alabama News

General

7 items you need in an Alabama kitchen: Golden Eagle, Wickles and more

There are just some things you can find in most Southern kitchens. A copy of “Calling All Cooks.” Some Conecuh Sausage. Maybe a jug of Milo’s or Red Diamond tea.

We here at AL.com decided to discuss the one (or two) Alabama products that are always in our kitchen. So pull up a chair and sit a spell and let’s talk about some of our favorites.

Golden Eagle Syrup

There are a lot of Alabama food brands I love and can often be found in my fridge and pantry, but my favorite among them all, for sentimental reasons, has to be Golden Eagle Syrup. Made in the small town of Fayette, or “Syrup City” as I learned it’s called, Golden Eagle Syrup played a big role in one of my favorite family traditions growing up. For years, my grandmother would come over every Christmas morning and make us all biscuits from scratch. Then, while they were still warm, she’d fill them with a mixture of butter, peanut butter and a hefty pour of Golden Eagle Syrup. It was the sweetest morning treat reserved only for that occasion, and I looked forward to it almost as much as my gifts every year. So now, as an adult, I keep a jar of Golden Eagle Syrup around anytime my sweet tooth (and nostalgia) kicks in.—Amber Sutton

READ MORE: The story of Alabama’s beloved Golden Eagle syrup

Wickles Pickles

If you peek inside our fridge right now, alongside the John’s Famous Slaw Dressing and the Dreamland Bar-B-Que sauce, you’ll find three or four jars of another Alabama staple, Wickles Pickles. We keep more jars in the kitchen pantry in case of emergency. The Original Pickle is an ol’ reliable that not only complements cheeseburgers and leftover Thanksgiving turkey sandwiches, but that we also serve with my homemade pimento cheese and Bill-E’s Small Batch Bacon on a King’s Hawaiian roll for the perfect gameday appetizer. And don’t dare throw away that liquid gold left in the jar when all the pickles are gone. It comes in handy for brining a chicken, boiling a batch of peanuts, mixing a mint julep — even relieving muscle cramps. (I’ve tried it! It works!) My wife also uses another wickedly delicious Wickles product, the Wicked Okra, in an easy-to-make, guaranteed-to-please bacon-wrapped pickled okra appetizer that is a hit every time she takes it to a party. – Bob Carlton

Bagels from Canadian Bakin’ in Huntsville

If your bagel experience has been the packaged/grocery store variety, this isn’t the same sport. Completely different freshness, texture and X factor. Whatever Canadian Bakin’ owner/baker Matt Johnson does in his process must involve witchcraft. – Matt Wake

“Centennial Collection” and other community cookbooks

No Alabama kitchen is complete without a vintage cookbook, and my favorite ones come from community organizations, church groups, social clubs and the like. These collections are delightful time capsules, stuffed with blueprints for dishes that home cooks were proud to make and serve to their families. I’m especially fond of retro recipes that seem a little outrageous today — or even downright unhealthy — using flavored gelatin, canned fruit, hot dogs, lunch meats, canned soups, olives, pickles and other, um, interesting ingredients. Just reading about these dishes is a kitschy nostalgia trip. Of course, such cookbooks also contain recipes for tasty dishes that stand the test of time. For kitsch and classics, I turn to my copy of “Centennial Collection: Favorite Recipes From the Newspaper Employees.” This cookbook was published in 1988 by The Birmingham News in honor of its 100th year. It includes an easy recipe for strawberry pretzel salad — even a klutzy cook like me can make it — plus refrigerator rolls, cheese straws, chilis, slaws and lots of hearty casseroles. The book is out of print and hard to find, but well worth the effort. (Pro tip: Try a search on Ebay.) — Mary Colurso

Dale’s Seasoning

Not many Alabama food brands have been around longer and are more iconic than Birmingham’s Dale’s Seasoning, the savory, soy sauce-based steak marinade that goes back to 1946, when the old Dale’s Cellar Restaurant opened in downtown Birmingham. That restaurant and the other Dale’s Steakhouse restaurants that followed are all gone – the last one closing in 2014 – but Dale’s Seasoning is not only still around, it’s still owned and operated by the same family that started Dale’s nearly 80 years ago. After Dale’s grew to become a nationwide brand, their marketing folks put together a memorable ad campaign with the catchy jingle: “How Do You Do Your Dale’s?” Loyal Dale’s customers came up with enough recipes to fill a cookbook – from grilled chicken kabobs to stir-fried vegetables, baked beans to roasted Brussels sprouts, sloppy joes to Bloody Marys. As Alan Seigel, the vice president of Dale’s Seasoning, once told me, “There is no wrong way to use it. You can put it on anything.” – Bob Carlton

Play House Spices

The world of rubs, seasonings and marinades is rich with home-grown products, and as a north Alabama native I’ll probably always have a Sam’s Club half-gallon jug of Dale’s steak seasoning on hand. But here’s something newer that’s become a household essential in recent years: Play House Spices, a line of hand-blended seasonings created in Mobile. The names are evocative of the Alabama landscape, such as the Ono Island rub, the Old Dauphin Way blackening spices and the Causeway Blend sweet heat rub. Our go-to is the Dauphin Island Blend, which “combines the zest of the Caribbean with the flavors cherished by Gulf residents” and is particularly recommended for fish, shrimp and chicken tacos. (Ingredients include lime zest, orange zest, cumin and chives, so it’s no run-of-the-mill flavoring.) Play House products are made without MSG and added sugar, and there are several low-sodium or salt-free blends. For full information including the products, recipes, and information on ordering and retail outlets, visit the company’s website. – Lawrence Specker

Coffee from Kaffeeklatsch in Huntsville

Kaffeeklatsch roasts its coffee beans with a machine that’s almost a hundred years old. Roasting produces a complex aroma that wafts in the air downtown. That aroma has Pied Piper-ed many a first-time customer into Kaffeeklatsch since it opened in 1977. The ‘Klatsch gets its beans from places like Indonesia, Columbia and Kenya. – Matt Wake

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General

Just 1 SEC school spent more than Alabama on football recruiting in FY 2024

Tennessee led the SEC in football recruiting spending during Fiscal Year 2024. The Volunteers spent $5.4 million in the category, according to financial reports submitted to the NCAA by the league’s 15 public schools, obtained by AL.com via a series of open records requests.

Alabama came in just below Tennessee. The Crimson Tide spent $5.3 million on football recruiting during FY 2024, a large jump from the previous fiscal year, when UA shelled out $2.9 million in the category.

Vanderbilt is a private school and is not subject to open records requests. For that reason, the Commodores were not included in the rankings.

Fiscal years do not overlap perfectly with recruiting class calendars. FY 2024 ran from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024, while the early signing period for each class falls in December.

Football recruiting spending jumped throughout the league. In FY 2023, only three schools spent more than $3 million, a number that jumped to seven for FY 2024.

After Georgia led the league by spending $5.3 million in FY 2023, the Bulldogs dropped to fourth, reporting just over $4 million in football recruiting expenses this past fiscal year. Texas A&M ranked second in FY 2023, at $4 million, and moved down to third at $4.1 million for FY 2024.

Auburn’s football recruiting spending was one of the few in the league to go down for FY 2024, when the Tigers dedicated just under $1.5 million to the efforts. AU had spent just under $1.6 million for FY 2023.

Auburn remained steady at 12th in spending across the league’s public schools.

Nine schools spent more than $2 million on football recruiting in FY 2024, up from seven the previous year. Nine of the 15 public SEC schools saw their budgets increase, with Texas A&M, Georgia, Texas, Florida, Auburn and Arkansas the exceptions.

Tennessee took the biggest jump, which vaulted the Volunteers to first in recruiting spending. UT had spent $2.6 million in FY 2023, ranking sixth among SEC public schools.

Just as in many spending categories, Mississippi State ranked dead last in the league during FY 2024. However, its football recruiting spending went up, from $774,938 to $990,390.

The Bulldogs remain the only public SEC school to spend less than $1 million on football recruiting. The next lowest on the list was Kentucky, which spent $1.2 million in the category.

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General

Huntsville’s new $98 million luxury apartment complex bringing more residents downtown

Will Huntsville’s newest apartment community, along with others under construction, boost the downtown economy in the Rocket City?

Tom Lowe, T2 Capital Management director of acquisitions and development, believes the opening of the 332-unit Vista at Councill Square at 521 Davis Circle and others such as Front Row and Bartley Lofts under construction nearby will do just that.

“This brings residents downtown,” he told AL.com Thursday at the $98 million Vista Councill Square’s ribbon cutting. “It’s good for all of our communities. It is especially good for downtown merchants. Restaurants are going to get busier; more retail should surface.”

Huntsville City Administrator John Hamilton appears to share that view.

“Huntsville has been running a marathon of growth for quite a few years now at what really is a sprinter’s pace,” he said. “You only do that if you have great partners. We need the housing. We need more housing. Obviously, a lot is still under development.”

The growth Hamilton mentions is “a lot of good growth,” Lowe said. And that is what attracted T2 Capital and Rockefeller Group to partner to build the apartment community.

The growing Village of Providence and the MidCity District near the downtown area examples of that growth, as are the other downtown multifamily developments going up: the $90 million, six-story, 273-unit Bartley Lofts at City Centre; and the $375 million Front Row development at the corner of Monroe Street and Clinton Avenue that will include 545 residential units.

“Huntsville has an influx of a new, corporate presence,” Lowe said. “A lot of jobs are coming in. A lot of it is chasing federal contracts. They’re coming in from Chicago, Atlanta, D.C., Dallas. That inflow of population growth that corresponds with the job is attractive to a developer for not only residential, but retail.”

“It’s an educated population that is a smart young population that wants to live in a downtown environment,” added John Petricola, senior managing director and head of Southeast development for the Rockefeller Group. “That attracted us. It’s a unique city. It has all of the quality and affordability you want as a developer.”

Huntsville’s downtown area was already rapidly changing when the developers purchased the property next to Councill High Memorial Park and the main branch of the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library in 2022.

“Constellation (apartments) was under construction, Eclipse (apartments) was here, as was the AC (hotel), everything, of course, around the park,” Lowe said.

Jeff Brown, CEO and Co-Founder of T2, called Vista’s opening another step in the expansion of a vibrant community.

“Huntsville is a dynamic, fast-growing city with a strong economy and vibrant downtown, and Vista reflects our commitment to creating exceptional living environments in markets where people and businesses want to be,” he said. “We’re thrilled to see this vision come to life alongside the Rockefeller Group.”

At the development’s groundbreaking, Mayor Tommy Battle said the site was on one of the last large parcels of land available in the downtown’s center core, where occupancy is at a premium.

At the time, Brown said the development would be built in phases, and that an additional phase could include office space.

Downtown amenity

“Downtown is unto itself an amenity for what we envisioned this to be,” Lowe said.

The first residents at Vista at Councill Square will move in at the beginning of month. When that happens, they will be within walking distance to Publix, Huntsville Hospital, Von Braun Center and Big Spring Park in addition to the main branch of the library.

Vista is six stories. The apartments range from studios to three-bedroom units

“Something that is unique to the market, we also have six townhomes for rent, two-story,” Lowe said. “That’s looking at Councill Park.”

Each unit has high-end finishes, including stainless steel appliances, an in-residence washer and dryer, quartz countertops, custom shaker-style cabinetry, oversized windows, backlit vanity mirrors and frameless glass shower enclosures.

Vista’s amenities include two dedicated coworking spaces on the first and sixth floors, a fitness center with a yoga and meditation room, a hospitality unit available for residents’ guests to rent nightly, EV charging stations in the garage, a game room and lounge, secure bike storage and a pet spa, in addition to in-unit smart devices.

Vista is one of the few multifamily properties in Huntsville offering a rooftop pool. The pool area offers views of the city including the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and Monte Sano Mountain.

Huntsville-based Matheny Goldmon Architecture + Interiors, which has designed some of the area’s most well-known properties—including the Mars Music Hall, Orion Amphitheater, and the Guest Center at the Huntsville Botanical Garden—collaborated with OKW Architects to design the community.

Vista’s monthly rental rates start at $1,403.

Vista is among several recently opening mixed-use communities in the area that include 2020 at Providence, the Foundry off Governor’s Drive, the Gallery at Lowe Mill across from the Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment Center, The Stella at Five Points and the Mural@Stovehouse near the Stovehouse entertainment venue.

And Vista at Councill Square is not the only development T2 Capital is involved with. T2 is involved with the multifamily component of the Stadium Commons development next to Joe Davis Stadium off Memorial Parkway. It is also in negotiations for the proposed Big Cove Village in the eastern part of the city.

See story: Huntsville’s newest downtown apartments begin leasing. Here are the details. – al.com

See story: Luxury apartment community breaks ground in downtown Huntsville – al.com

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General

Thunderstorms with penny-sized hail in Central Alabama Saturday, gusts to hit 50 mph

A report from the National Weather Service was issued on Saturday at 5:55 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until 6:30 a.m. for Shelby, Bibb and Chilton counties.

The storms are foreseen to bring wind gusts of up to 50 mph and penny-sized hail (0.75 inches).

“At 5:55 a.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm near West Blocton, or 9 miles north of Centreville, moving east at 55 mph,” says the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Joe Tucker Park, American Village, West Centreville, Woodstock, Six Mile, Bibb County Airport, Siluria, Alabaster Veterans Park, Green Pond, Maylene, Hebron, Helena, Harmon, Randolph, Alabaster, Trio, Centreville, Ashby, Brierfield Ironworks Park and Wilton.

The weather service adds, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 10 a.m. for central and west central Alabama.”

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

To protect yourself during a thunderstorm, take these recommendations into consideration:

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

• Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
• These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

• After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
• It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:

Beware of rapid water flow:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and drive with care:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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General

Update: Be ready for penny-sized hail with thunderstorms in Central Alabama Saturday, gusts could peak at 40 mph

An updated report was issued from the National Weather Service on Saturday at 6:29 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until 7:15 a.m. for Shelby, Talladega, Bibb, Chilton and Coosa counties.

The storms are anticipated to bring penny-sized hail (0.75 inches) and wind gusts of up to 40 mph.

“At 6:29 a.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from Columbiana to near Jemison to Lawley. Movement was east at 50 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Minooka Park, Lomax, Dollar, Gap Of The Mountain, Columbiana, Shelby Shores, Gantts Quarry, Highway 145, CR 46, Clanton, American Village, Paint Creek, Strickland Crossroads, I 65 Rest Area, Camp Branch, Varnons, Randolph, Mignon, Mitchell Lake, Sylacauga Municipal Airport and and Cedar Creek.

The weather service adds, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 10 a.m. for central and east central Alabama.”

Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following recommendations:

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
• Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
• Seek a safe place to shelter, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

• Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
• These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

• After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
• Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and drive with care:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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General

Strong storms roll through Alabama, and more possible later

Strong to severe storms were moving through parts of Alabama on Saturday morning, and more will be possible later today.

And Sunday. And Monday. And Tuesday.

A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for parts of Alabama until 10 a.m.:

All north Alabama counties have been dropped from the watch, but these counties remained as of 5:30 a.m.: Blount, Calhoun, Cherokee, Clay, Cleburne, Etowah, Jefferson, Pickens, Shelby, St. Clair, Randolph, Talladega and Tuscaloosa.

A cluster of strong to severe storms continued to drop to the south and east across the state on Saturday morning.

The National Weather Service offices in both Huntsville and Birmingham have issued several severe thunderstorm warnings as of 5 a.m. Saturday and have started to get some reports of downed trees from parts of north and central Alabama.

This morning’s storms have also brought high winds and hail.

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center has a Level 1 out of 5 risk for severe weather in place for much of the state today (see the map at the top of this post).

A Level 1 risk means that isolated severe storms will be possible.

The strongest storms could have damaging winds, hail and heavy rain. Tornadoes are not expected.

The cluster of rain and storms is expected to continue to work its way to the south and east this morning. Forecasters think they could again fire up this afternoon with the heating of the day.

More storms will be possible again on Sunday, and there is another Level 1 severe weather risk for much of the state:

Yet another Level 1 severe weather risk has been added to the forecast for Alabama for Monday but only includes north Alabama.

Here’s the outlook for Monday:

Then there could be a more significant round of storms on Tuesday. The SPC has added an enhanced risk for part of Alabama for Tuesday:

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General

Clay and Randolph counties placed under a severe thunderstorm watch until Saturday morning

A severe thunderstorm watch was released by the National Weather Service on Saturday at 5:21 a.m. in effect until 10 a.m. for Clay and Randolph counties.

Lightning on the horizon: Expert safety measures for thunderstorms

Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

• Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
• Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.

Wait for the all-clear:

• After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
• It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather

When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of swollen waterways:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Slow down and drive with care:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Visibility matters:

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.

If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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General

2025 Preakness Stakes: Look over the field for Saturday’s 150th race

The handlers of Sovereignty took the air out of Saturday’s Preakness Stakes shortly after the Kentucky Derby by announcing the winner of the Run for the Roses would not pursue the Triple Crown in Baltimore.

That leaves the Preakness Stakes celebrating its prestige and history – Saturday’s race with be the 150th Run for the Black-Eyed Susans – and in a familiar position.

Since Justify captured the Preakness Stakes in 2018 on the way to becoming U.S. thoroughbred racing’s 13th Triple Crown winner, three of the next six Kentucky Derby winners didn’t run at Pimlico Race Course. The past two did, though, with Mage showing third in 2023 and Mystik Dan finishing second by 2.25 lengths to Seize the Grey in 2024.

Without Sovereignty in the field, the Kentucky Derby betting favorite reassumed that position for the Preakness Stakes. At 3-1, Journalism finished second at the Kentucky Derby by 1.5 lengths.

The morning-line odds for the Preakness Stakes had Journalism at even shorter odds at 8-5. So far, bettors like Journalism even better, with the colt at 6-5 to win in live wagering on Friday night.

The morning-line odds had five colts at 10-1 or better. Friday night’s live betting had six, including a trio of entrants with four or fewer career races – River Thames, Clever Again and Goal Oriented – that have never finished out of the money. Goal Oriented has raced only twice, won both and is trained by eight-time Preakness Stakes winner Bob Baffert.

Not included in those odds is Gosger, who has two wins and a second in three career races.

The nine-horse field includes two other Kentucky Derby runners – seventh-place finisher Sandman and 16th-place finisher American Promise.

Post time for the 150th Preakness Stakes is 6:01 p.m. CDT Saturday.

This will be the last Preakness Stakes at this version of Old Hilltop. Next year’s Preakness Stakes will be contested about 25 miles away at Laurel Park while the dilapidated facilities at Pimlico Race Course are replaced.

NBC’s televised coverage will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday.

The field for the Preakness Stakes, with post position, morning-line odds and live-betting odds (as of Friday night), includes:

Post Position 1: Goal Oriented 6-1 / 7-1

The colt raced for the first time on April 6 and ran away in the stretch to win a maiden special weight outing by 3.25 lengths at Santa Anita. Goal Oriented’s only other race came at Churchill Downs on the Kentucky Derby Day card, and he won that one wire-to-wire. Trainer: Bob Baffert, who saddled Preakness Stakes winners Silver Charm in 1997, Real Quiet in 1998, Point Given in 2001, War Emblem in 2002, Lookin at Lucky in 2010, American Pharoah in 2015, Justify in 2018 and National Treasure in 2023. Jockey: Flavien Pratt, who rode Preakness Stakes winner Rombauer in 2021. Record: 2-2-0-0. Earnings: $111,960. Pedigree: Bizzy Caroline by Not This Time.

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Post Position 2: Journalism 8-5 / 6-5

The betting favorite at the Kentucky Derby, Journalism came home second by 1.5 lengths to Sovereignty in the Run for the Roses. The California colt had arrived at Churchill Downs on a four-race winning streak, including two this year – the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes on March 1 and Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby on April 5. Trainer: Michael W. McCarthy, who saddled Preakness Stakes winner Rombauer in 2021. Jockey: Umberto Rispoli. Record: 6-4-1-1. Earnings: $1,638,880. Pedigree: Mopotism by Curlin, the winner of the 2007 Preakness Stakes.

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Post Position 3: American Promise 15-1 / 9-1

A 21-1 long shot at the Kentucky Derby, American Promise was never a factor in the Run for the Roses with a 16th-place finish on May 3. The son of Triple Crown winner Justify took six races as a 2-year-old to break his maiden. As a 3-year-old, American Promise ran seventh at the Grade 3 Southwest Stakes and fifth at the Grade 2 Risen Star Stakes before getting his second win at the Virginia Derby on March 15. Trainer: D. Wayne Lukas, who saddled Preakness Stakes winners Codex in 1980, Tank’s Prospect in 1985, Tabasco Cat in 1994, Timber Country in 1995, Charismatic in 1999, Oxbow in 2013 and Seize the Grey in 20024. Jockey: Nik Juarez. Record: 9-2-1-1. Earnings: $444,874. Pedigree: Tapella by Justify, the winner of the 2018 Preakness Stakes.

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Post Position 4: Heart of Honor 12-1 / 22-1

The British-bred colt will be making his United States debut in the Preakness Stakes. Heart of Honor’s past five races have come in Dubai, and he arrives at Pimlico off three straight runner-up finishes – by 1.5 lengths in the UAE 2,000 Guineas, a head in the Al Bastakiya and by a nose in the UAE Derby. In the latter race, Heart of Honor finished second to Admire Daytona, which finished 19th in the Kentucky Derby. Trainer: Jamie Osborne. Jockey: Saffie Osborne. Record: 6-2-4-0. Earnings: $340,919. Pedigree: Ruby Love by Honor A.P.

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Post Position 5: Pay Billy 20-1 / 11-1

The colt needed four races to post his first victory as a 2-year-old but has three victories and a second-place finish by a nose as a 3-year-old heading into his first graded-stakes race. In his past two races, Pay Billy has pulled away to a 3.5-length victory in the Private Terms Stakes on March 22 and a 1.5-length victory in the Federico Tesio Stakes on April 19 at Laurel Park. Trainer: Michael Gorham. Jockey: Raul Mena. Record: 8-4-1-1. Earnings: $234,475. Pedigree: Harlington’s Rose by Improbable.

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Post Position 6: River Thames 9-2 / 10-1

Unraced as a 2-year-old, the colt won his first two times out at Gulfstream Park before advancing to graded-stakes competition. River Thames lost by a neck to Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty in the Grade 2 Fountain of Youth Stakes on March 1. At the Grade 1 Bluegrass Stakes on April 8, River Thames placed third, three-quarters of a length behind East Avenue, which lost to Burnham Square by a nose. Trainer: Todd Pletcher. Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr. Record: 4-2-1-1. Earnings: $261,900. Pedigree: Proportionality by Maclean’s Music.

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Post Position 7: Sandman 4-1 / 5-1

The colt entered the Kentucky Derby as the Grade 1 Arkansas Derby winner on March 29 and went off in the Run for the Roses with the second-shortest odds. But even though Sandman ran past six horses in the stretch, that netted only a seventh-place finish on May 3. At the Arkansas Derby, Sandman opened up to a 2.5-length victory after a second-place showing at the Grade 3 Southwest Stakes on Jan. 25 and a third-place run at the Grade 2 Rebel Stakes on Feb. 23. Trainer: Mark E. Casse, who saddled Preakness Stakes winner War of Will in 2019. Jockey: John Velazquez, who rode Preakness Stakes winner National Treasure in 2023. Record: 9-3-1-2. Earnings: $1,254,595. Pedigree: Distorted Music by Tapit.

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Post Position 8: Clever Again 5-1 / 5-1

The lightly raced son of Triple Crown winner American Pharoah lost by a head at Keeneland in his only race as a 2-year-old. As a 3-year-old, Clever Again has two wire-to-wire wins at Oaklawn Park, most recently taking the Hot Springs Stakes on March 30 by 4 lengths. Trainer: Steve Asmussen, who saddled Preakness Stakes winners Curlin in 2007 and Rachel Alexandra in 2009. Jockey: Jose Ortiz, who rode Preakness Stakes winner Early Voting in 2022. Record: 3-2-1-0. Earnings: $198,400. Pedigree: Flattering by American Pharoah, the winner of the 2015 Preakness Stakes.

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Post Position 9: Gosger 20-1 / 19-1

A second-place run in the colt’s only 2-year-old outing was followed by a victory by 1.5 lengths over the favorite at Gulfstream Park on Feb. 15. Stepping up in competition, Gosger won the Grade 3 Lexington Stakes the last time out on April 12, beating two horses with shorter odds with a burst to the wire. Trainer: Brendan Walsh. Jockey: Luis Saez. Record: 3-2-1-0. Earnings: $292,200. Pedigree: Gloria by Nyquist.

Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X at @AMarkG1.

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General

Thunderstorms with marble-sized hail in Alabama Saturday, winds gusting up to 50 mph

A report was issued from the National Weather Service on Saturday at 4:27 a.m. for strong thunderstorms until 5:15 a.m. for Blount, Etowah, Jefferson and St. Clair counties.

The storms could bring marble-sized hail (0.5 inches) and wind gusts of up to 50 mph.

“At 4:27 a.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms along a line extending from near Strawberry to near Arkadelphia. Movement was east at 50 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

Locations impacted by the alert include Whitney Junction, Gadsden Steam Plant, Hokes Bluff, Smoke Rise, Rockledge, Fairview, Bangor, Aurora, Strawberry, Attalla, Gadsden Water Works, Susan Moore, Glencoe, Chamblees Mill, Snead, Crudup, Holly Springs, Gallant, Gadsden Municipal Airport and Keener.

The weather service states, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 10 a.m. for central, northeastern and east central Alabama.”

Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations

Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest moves away.

To protect yourself during a thunderstorm, take these recommendations into consideration:

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

• Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
• These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

• After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
• It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re with a group, ensure individuals are spread out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.

Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and drive with care:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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General

Update: Severe thunderstorm warning previously issued for Cullman County will expire at 4:30 a.m.

The warning was for Cullman County.

“The storm which prompted the warning has weakened below severe limits, and no longer poses an immediate threat to life or property. Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 10 a.m. for north central, northeastern and northwestern Alabama,” according to the National Weather Service.

Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations

Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.

To protect yourself during a thunderstorm, take these recommendations into consideration:

Lightning safety plan:

• When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
• Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
• Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.

Indoors safety measures:

• Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
• These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.

Wait for the all-clear:

• After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
• It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.

When indoor shelter isn’t available:

If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:

• Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they expose you to greater lightning risk.
• Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
• If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
• Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
• Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.

In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.

Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Slow down and drive with care:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.

When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

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