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Alabama country legend honored for classic album, 30 years after ‘mighty’ release

When Emmylou Harris released “Wrecking Ball” in 1995, the album earned acclaim as a departure for the country-folk star. Harris, a Birmingham native, took her already impressive career in a different direction, teaming with producer Daniel Lanois and exploring new territory as an Americana artist.

“‘Wrecking Ball’ knocked down the pillars of Emmylou Harris’ sound — the clean production; the mix of country ballads and rootsy rave-ups; the loose connection to mainstream country music — and rebuilt her career from the ground up,“ American Songwriter said, looking back at the album in 2021.

”Daniel Lanois, a rock & roll producer with little connection to the Nashville scene, did much of the heavy lifting, filtering Harris’ folksy influences through a swirl of keyboards, drones and echoing guitars,“ the magazine continued. ”Emmylou Harris was the undisputed star, though, holding her own on an album filled with heavyweights like Steve Earle and U2‘s Larry Mullen, Jr.

“Mighty and moody, ’Wrecking Ball’ sounded like the Americana equivalent of a watercolor painting, its shades and textures bleeding in and out of one another.”

Harris won a Grammy in 1996 for “Wrecking Ball,” in the category of Best Contemporary Folk Recording. This only added to her impressive stash of awards. (She has 13 Grammy wins and 47 nominations as of 2025, making her the top Grammy winner from Alabama.)

Emmylou Harris, a Birmingham native, has 13 Grammy wins to her credit, 1997-2013. Here, she poses at the Grammy Awards with her trophies in 1980 (center), 2001 (left) and 2000 (right).(Getty Images)

Perhaps it’s no surprise, then, that “Wrecking Ball” has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. It’s one of eight albums and five singles honored this year by the Recording Academy. Recordings inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame must be at least 25 years old, and display “qualitative or historical significance,” according to a press release.

Along with Harris’ “Wrecking Ball,” this year’s album inductees include “Never Too Much” by Luther Vandross, “Supernatural” by Carlos Santana, “Tea for the Tillerman” by Cat Stevens, “Reasonable Doubt” by Jay-Z and “Zombie” by Fela Kuti & Afrika 70.

The album “#1 Record” by Big Star and the self-titled “J.D. Crowe & The New South” were inducted, as well. See the full list of 2025 inductees here.

“I’m proud to share that my record, Wrecking Ball, will officially be recognized as one of this year’s GRAMMY Hall of Fame inducted recordings on May 16!” Harris said in an Instagram post. “Thank you so much to the @recordingacad & @grammymuseum for this incredible honor.”

New additions to the Grammy Hall of Fame were announced on Feb. 13 by the Recording Academy, along with an event to honor the releases and their creators. The Grammy Hall of Fame Gala is set for May 16 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California.

The Grammy Hall of Fame now includes 1,165 recordings and was started in 1973, the press release says. All titles are listed in a database that’s searchable on the Grammy website.

“The Grammy Hall Of Fame serves as a vital bridge between music’s past and present, honoring recordings that have left a lasting mark on our cultural landscape,” Michael Sticka, president and CEO of the Grammy Museum, said in the release. “We’re proud to preserve and share these influential works.”

The enduring impact of Harris’ “Wrecking Ball” was noted in a 2021 review on Guitar.com.

“Emmylou Harris’ ethereal voice, history with Gram Parsons, and the marrying in her music of traditional Nashville stylings and a Laurel Canyon folky edge, had long ensured her spot as a darling of the alternative country crowd,“ writer Paul Robson said. ”But as she headed towards 50, and as her voice aged gracefully to become slightly more of the earth than that heavenly 1970s timbre, she faced up to a problem as old as the hills: do you settle for more of the same, keeping Nashville happy while trading on those significant past glories, or do you strike out again to discover new ground?

“In teaming up with French Canadian guitarist and producer Daniel Lanois for ‘Wrecking Ball,’ Harris went exploring. And what she found … changed what was possible in country music forever.” (Listen to Harris perform the title track in the video below.)

Harris, 77, has never been one to rest on her laurels or stick to an established music formula. The pioneering country legend has a long and distinguished career in music, starting with her 1970 debut album, “Gliding Bird.”

Her catalog includes more than 20 studio albums, as well as live records, compilations and a holiday album. Harris has collaborated with countless artists and earned a stellar reputation for her heartfelt vocals, elegant guitar playing and willingness to cross boundaries in music.

Although Harris has spent most of her career as a renowned interpreter, performing tunes written by others, she’s also a skillful songwriter. Harris is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Alabama Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry and more.

Emmylou Harris in 2011, at her home in Nashville, Tenn. This portrait photo was taken to promote her album “Hard Bargain.”(AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)

Harris was born in Alabama and spent her early childhood here, until age 6. She moved away with her family, but returned for summers and holidays at her grandparents’ house. Harris also gave some seminal performances near Birmingham, including one at Horse Pens 40 in Steele.

“I remember being hired by (the park’s founder) Warren Musgrove and how beautiful it was — and probably how nervous I was,” Harris said in a 2003 interview with The Birmingham News.

According to the folks at Horse Pens, Harris played and sang barefoot at that show, standing on a wooden door balanced on the rocks. The park’s lore says she was paid a platter of fruit for her efforts, although the artist has never verified that.

Harris has performed in Alabama several times over the years, including a show at Birmingham’s Alys Stephens Center in 2012.

“Music lovers in this city take a fierce pride in Harris, a country-folk artist known for her abundant talent, enduring integrity and silver-white hair,” AL.com said in its review. “Harris sang with passionate precision and played an elegant rhythm guitar. Consistency is one of her strong points, and Harris did not disappoint.”

General

Wind advisory affecting North Alabama Sunday morning

On Sunday at 6:48 a.m. a wind advisory was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 9 a.m. for Lauderdale, Colbert, Franklin, Lawrence, Limestone, Madison, Morgan, Marshall, Jackson, DeKalb and Cullman counties.

The weather service says, “Northwest winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph.”

“Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result,” describes the weather service. “Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.”

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.

General

Mobile mayor’s race heats up with new poll, candidates and Mardi Gras pledge

Supporters for suspended Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine gather inside the Government Plaza Atrium on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in downtown Mobile, Ala.John Sharp

The Mobile mayor’s race heated up last week with a new entrant, the contest’s first poll release, and the potential for two former police chiefs as candidates.

General

Southern Company CEO: Faith, hard work, and treating others right keys to success

As a child growing up in rural south Alabama in the 1960s, Chris Womack had not seen a building taller than two stories, nor did he know what a corporate CEO was.

But the Greenville native was given advice from his grandmother that shaped his future and continues to guide him personally and professionally.

“She never allowed me or my brothers to be limited by anything. Not to be limited by restrictions because of my race or because of where I grew up,” Womack told a group gathered at The Club in Birmingham Thursday.

Success would come if he was willing to seek it and treat everyone fairly along the way, Womack recalled.

“Through the grace of God, I can be whatever I want to be. I’ve got to put the work in. I’ve got to treat everybody right,” he said. “With that kind of belief and faith and hope and optimism, the sky is the limit.”

Womack was the guest during the Founders and Leaders Luncheon hosted by the Birmingham chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Womack, the head of one the country’s largest utility companies and the parent company of Alabama Power, sat for a discussion where he talked about his early years, his growth while in Birmingham and his belief in a shared corporate and personal responsibility to improve the lives of others.

“I can’t do anything by myself,” Womack said. “It takes a village, it takes a family, it takes a bunch of us to collectively do things to make a difference,” Womack said. “As we’re sitting at the table doing the business that we must do, how do we also make sure that we’re doing other work while we’re there.”

Womack also touched on Birmingham’s homicide rate and what can be done to address it. The remedies are shared responsibility, he explained.

Birmingham ended 2024 with 152 homicides, the highest number in the city since 1933. Birmingham has already reported 15 homicides this year.

“You say, ‘Whose problem is that? Who’s got to solve that? It is Mayor Woodfin’s problem. Is it the state’s problem?’ We all have to figure out what role and what part we play in helping to find solutions to those kinds of issues that are in our community,” Womack said. “I have a responsibility to make sure I make a difference.”

Chris Womack, 64, a native of Greenville, has been appointed president of Southern Company. (Southern Company)

As an example, Womack noted his collaboration with the Atlanta mayor on initiatives to tackle homelessness in that city. Southern company is based in Atlanta.

“I don’t want the homeless issue in Atlanta to turn out what it has turned out to be in San Francisco, Los Angeles and in other places,” he said. “That’s something that we all have to do in terms of finding our own path and finding our own way to help try to make a difference.”

The event was moderated by Erskine “Chuck” Faush, Chief Development, Innovation & Growth Officer at Miles College and CEO of the 2150 Center For Innovation.

“I’ve worked for him, I’ve worked with him and he’s been a mentor to me,” Faush told AL.com later. “Our support from Miles College and the 2150 Innovation center of innovation is aligned with our mission to give tools and resources to the next generation of innovators, disruptors and game changers.”

Faush called the event an opportunity to inspire and showcase the possibilities of success to the young men in the audience alongside older fraternity members.

“All of us have had someone in our lives who has helped mold us, shape us and guide us,” he said. “This brought together emerging leaders, college and high school students to be in the same room with members of our fraternity who are not only accomplished but embody who we are as servant leaders.”

As a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha, Womack called the organization a conduit for community development and positive change. He issued a challenge to use existing historic organizations such as his to address current needs.

“We have a built-in network of people that we can marshal, that we can bring together around a cause that is so critically important. We have the opportunity to make a very, very, very big difference,” he said. “These organizations already have the infrastructure and membership. How do we stimulate this opt we have to tackle the great challenges that we face in our communities and in our country?”

Womack noted that the national fraternity was founded on the principles of scholarship and love for all mankind.

“Those virtues are just as important today as they were in 1906. And I would submit to you that they are more important today than they were in 1906,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to put the hard work in and don’t be afraid to do the hard things.”

General

Dropouts and sharks and sweet tea: Y’all want to hear a success story?

Y’all want to hear a really cool story? It’s a story about two young men who had a dream. Two young men who kept grinding, who worked long hours to make their dream come true. It’s a story about two college dropouts who were down to their last 300 dollars. Two college dropouts who in the last four years have made $12 million.

“We met in kindergarten,” 31-year-old Darien Craig told me, “Brandon Echols and I were on the same basketball team at Center Point Baptist. Brandon later moved away, but his family moved to Hayden when we were in the 8th grade, and we were reunited on the Hayden High School basketball team.”

General

‘90 Day Fiancé’ season 11 premiere: How to watch, where to stream free

The season 11 premiere of 90 Day Fiancé will air on TLC Sunday, Feb. 16 at 8/7c.

During episode one of the new season, Matt and Amani consider divorce in order to bring their fiancé to the U.S.

Meanwhile, Stevi tells her dad she’s engaged and her fiance arrives tomorrow, Mark’s daughter sees red flags and Sarper’s behavior rattles Shekinah.

Where can I watch 90 Day Fiancé season 11?

Although airing on TLC, those without basic cable can still watch the season 11 premiere of 90 Day Fiancé on Sunday with Philo and DirecTV Stream.

Both live streaming services offer free trials for new subscribers who can stream the new season of 90 Day Fiancé for free before committing to a paid subscription. However, Philo is the cheapest option at $28 a month after its 7-day free trial.

What is Philo?

Philo is considered one of the cheaper live streaming services available as it allows users to stream over 70 live TV channels for just $28 a month after its free trial.

Popular channels offered with Philo include the Hallmark Channel, MTV, AMC, HGTV, History Channel, Discovery Channel, CMT, TLC, BET and more.

The streaming service also offers unlimited DVR along with various movies and TV shows users can watch on-demand.

What is DirecTV Stream?

DirecTV Stream is also an alternative to regular cable, but with more exclusive channel options that Philo does not offer. Its standard package comes with over 100 live channels for $101.98 a month after its free trial including ESPN, ABC, NBC, CBS, TLC, MTV and much more.

DirecTV Stream also comes with a variety of shows and movies users can watch on-demand along with the option to record your favorite TV shows.

General

Liverpool-Wolves free livestream: How to watch Premier League game, TV, schedule

Liverpool plays against Wolves in a Premier League game today. The matchup will begin at 8 a.m. CT on USA Network. Fans can watch this game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV Stream and Fubo TV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users.

Liverpool enters this matchup with a 17-6-1 record, and they currently have 57 points. In their most recent game, the Liverpool squad drew 2-2 against Everton.

During the draw, Liverpool’s star forward Mohamed Salah scored a goal. He is the leading scorer in the Premier League this season with 22 goals. With this in mind, Salah will be a key player to watch this morning.

Wolves have struggled this season, as they enter this matchup with a 5-4-15 record. The team only has 19 points in the Premier League this season, so they are sitting near the relegation zone.

In order to win this morning, Wolves will need to rely on their forward Matheus Cunha. He leads the team with 11 goals this season.

Fans can watch this game for free online by using the free trials offered by DirecTV Stream and Fubo TV. Alternatively, Sling offers a first-month discount to new users.

General

Basketball’s Terrific 22: The best pro careers by players with Alabama roots

Sunday night’s NBA All-Star Game does not include any players from Alabama high schools and colleges. The most recent player with Alabama basketball roots to be chosen for the All-Star honor was LeFlore High School’s DeMarcus Cousins in 2018.

Cousins is among the 14 players from Alabama high schools and colleges who have been NBA All-Star Game selections.

All those players appear on the Terrific 22, a lineup of the players with Alabama basketball roots who have had the best professional careers in the NBA, WNBA or ABA.

The top three players on the list – Charles Barkley, Artis Gilmore and Ben Wallace – are members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

The Terrific 22 is not based on a subjective evaluation of the ability of the players, but an appraisal of the distinction and durability of each player’s career with points awarded for longevity and accomplishment. In the tabulation for the Terrific 22, players received points for NBA, WNBA and ABA experience, All-Star Game selections, end-of-year honors and awards such as All-NBA, MVP and Defensive Player of the Year, championships, league-leading statistics and Hall of Fame membership.

The Terrific 22 includes:

1. Charles Barkley

Philadelphia 76ers 1984-85 to 1991-92, Phoenix Suns 1992-93 to 1995-96, Houston Rockets 1996-97 to 1999-2000

Leeds High School, Auburn: NBA All-Star Game 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997. All-NBA first team 1987-88, 1988-89, 1990-91, 1992-93, All-NBA second-team 1985-86, 1986-87, 1991-92, 1993-94, All-NBA third team 1995-96. NBA leader in rebounds per game in 1986-87. NBA MVP 1992-93. Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2006. Averaged 22.1 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.5 steals in 1,073 NBA regular-season games and 23.0 points, 12.9 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.6 steals in 123 NBA playoff games.

2. Artis Gilmore

Kentucky Colonels 1971-72 to 1975-76, Chicago Bulls 1976-77 to 1981-82, 1987-88, San Antonio Spurs 1982-83 to 1986-87, Boston Celtics 1987-88

Carver High School in Dothan: ABA All-Star Game 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976. NBA All-Star Game 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1986. All-ABA first team 1971-72, 1972-73, 1973-74, 1974-75, 1975-76. ABA All-Defensive 1972-73, 1973-74, 1974-75, 1975-76. ABA leader in rebounds per game in 1971-72, 1972-73, 1973-74, 1975-76, blocked shots per game in 1972-73, total rebounds in 1971-72, 1972-73, 1973-74, 1974-75, 1975-76 and total blocked shots in 1971-72, 1972-73, 1974-75. ABA Rookie of the Year 1971-72. ABA MVP 1971-72. Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2011. ABA champion 1974-75. Averaged 18.8 points, 12.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 2.4 blocks in 1,329 ABA and NBA regular-season games and 17.7 points, 12.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 2.3 blocks in 100 ABA and NBA playoff games.

3. Ben Wallace

Washington Bullets/Wizards 1996-97 to 1998-99, Orlando Magic 1999-2000, Detroit Pistons 2000-01 to 2005-06, 2009-10 to 2011-12, Chicago Bulls 2006-07 to 2007-08, Cleveland Cavaliers 2007-08 to 2008-09

Central High School in Hayneville: NBA All-Star Game 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006. All-NBA second team 2002-03, 2003-04, 2005-06, All-NBA third team 2001-02, 2004-05. NBA Defensive Player of the Year 2001-02, 2002-03, 2004-05, 2005-06. NBA All-Defensive team 2001-02, 2002-03, 2003-04, 2004-05, 2005-06. NBA leader in rebounds per game in 2001-02, 2002-03, blocked shots per game in 2001-02, total rebounds in 2000-01, 2002-03 and total blocked shots in 2001-02. Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2021. NBA champion 2003-04. Averaged 5.7 points, 9.6 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.3 steals and 2.0 blocks in 1,088 NBA regular-season games and 7.2 points, 11.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.9 blocks in 130 NBA playoff games.

4. DeWanna Bonner

Phoenix Mercury 2009 to 2016, 2018 to 2019, Connecticut Sun 2021 to 2024

Fairfield High School, Auburn: WNBA All-Star 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2023, 2024. All-WNBA first team 2015, All-WNBA second team 2020. WNBA champion 2009, 2014. Averaged 14.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.2 steals in 502 WNBA regular-season games and 13.7 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.2 steals in 87 WNBA playoff games.

5. Latrell Sprewell

Golden State Warriors 1992-93 to 1997-98, New York Knicks 1998-99 to 2002-03, Minnesota Timberwolves 2003-04 to 2004-05

Alabama: NBA All-Star Game 1994, 1995, 1997, 2001. All-NBA first team 1993-94. Averaged 18.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.4 steals in 913 NBA regular-season games and 19.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.2 steals in 62 NBA playoff games.

6. Larry Kenon

New York Nets 1973-74 to 1974-75, San Antonio Spurs 1975-76 to 1979-80, Chicago Bulls 1980-81 to 1982-83, Golden State Warriors 1982-83, Cleveland Cavaliers 1982-83

Ullman High School in Birmingham: ABA All-Star Game 1974, 1975, 1976. NBA All-Star Game 1978, 1979. ABA Rookie the Year 1973-74. ABA champion 1973-74. Averaged 17.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.3 steals in 752 ABA and NBA games and 17.2 points, 10.1 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.1 steals in 57 ABA and NBA playoff games.

7. DeMarcus Cousins

Sacramento Kings 2010-11 to 2016-17, New Orleans Pelicans 2016-17 to 2017-18, Golden State Warriors 2018-19, Houston Rockets 2020-21, Los Angeles Clippers 2020-21, Milwaukee Bucks 2021-22, Denver Nuggets 2021-22

LeFlore High School in Mobile: NBA All-Star 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018. All-NBA second team 2014-15, 2015-16. Averaged 19.6 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.1 blocks in 654 NBA regular-season games and 8.4 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 20 playoff games.

8. Robert Horry

Houston Rockets 1992-93 to 1995-96, Phoenix Suns 1996-97, Los Angeles Lakers 1996-97 to 2002-03, San Antonio Spurs 2003-04 to 2007-08

Andalusia High School, Alabama: NBA champion 1993-94, 1994-95, 1999-2000, 2000-01, 2001-02, 2004-05, 2006-07. Averaged 7.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.0 steals in 1,107 NBA games and 7.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.1 steals in 244 NBA playoff games.

9. Antonio McDyess

Denver Nuggets 1995-96 to 2001-02, New York Knicks 2003-04, Phoenix Suns 2003-04, Detroit Pistons 2004-05 to 2008-09, San Antonio Spurs 2009-10 to 2010-11

Alabama: NBA All-Star Game 2001. All-NBA third team 1998-99. Averaged 12.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.1 blocks in 1,015 NBA regular-season games and 8.1 points and 6.8 rebounds in 100 NBA playoff games.

10. Theo Ratliff

Detroit Pistons 1995-96 to 1997-98, 2007-08, Philadelphia 76ers 1997-98 to 2000-01, 2008-09, Atlanta Hawks 2001-02 to 2003-04, Portland Trail Blazers 2003-04 to 2005-06, Boston Celtics 2006-07, Minnesota Timberwolves 2007-08, San Antonio Spurs 2009-10, Charlotte Bobcats 2009-10, Los Angeles Lakers 2010-11

Demopolis High School: NBA All-Star Game 2001. NBA leader in blocked shots per game in 2000-01, 2002-03, 2003-04 and total blocked shots in 2002-03, 2003-04. Ratliff averaged 7.2 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game in 810 NBA regular-season games and 5.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 44 NBA playoff games.

11. Derrick McKey

Seattle SuperSonics 1987-88 to 1992-93, Indiana Pacers 1993-94 to 2000-01, Philadelphia 76ers 2001-02

Alabama: Averaged 11.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.1 steals in 937 NBA regular-season games and 8.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 142 NBA playoff games.

12. Gerald Wallace

Sacramento Kings 2001-02 to 2003-04, Charlotte Bobcats 2004-05 to 2010-11, Portland Trail Blazers 2010-11 to 2011-12, New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets 2011-12 to 2012-13, Boston Celtics 2013-14 to 2014-15

Childersburg High School, Alabama: NBA All-Star Game 2010. NBA All-Defensive team 2009-10. NBA leader in steals per game in 2005-06. Averaged 11.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.4 steals in 832 NBA regular-season games and 7.9 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 33 NBA playoff games.

13. John Drew

Atlanta Hawks 1974-75 to 1981-82, Utah Jazz 1982-83, 1984-85

J.F. Shields High School in Beatrice: NBA All-Star Game 1976, 1980. Averaged 20.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.3 steals in 739 NBA regular-season games and 14.0 points and 4.8 rebounds in 29 NBA playoff games.

14. Mo Williams

Utah Jazz 2003-04, 2012-13, Milwaukee Bucks 2004-05 to 2007-08, Cleveland Cavaliers 2008-09 to 2010-11, 2015-16, Los Angeles Clippers 2010-11 to 2011-12, Portland Trail Blazers 2013-14, Minnesota Timberwolves 2014-15, Charlotte Hornets 2014-15

Alabama: NBA All-Star Game 2009. NBA champion 2015-16. Averaged 13.2 points, 2.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists in 818 NBA regular-season games and 9.8 points, 1.8 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 58 NBA playoff games.

15. Eddie Johnson

Atlanta Hawks 1977-78 to 1985-86, Cleveland Cavaliers 1985-86, Seattle SuperSonics 1986-87

Auburn: NBA All-Star Game 1980, 1981. Averaged 15.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.1 steals in 675 NBA regular-season games.

16. Chuck Person

Indiana Pacers 1986-87 to 1991-92, Minnesota Timberwolves 1992-93 to 1993-94, San Antonio Spurs 1994-95 to 1995-96, 1997-98, Charlotte Hornets 1998-99, Seattle SuperSonics 1999-2000.

Brantley High School, Auburn: NBA Rookie of the Year 1986-87. Averaged 14.7 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists in 943 NBA regular-season games and 11.9 points, 2.1 rebounds and 4.1 assists in 37 NBA playoff games.

17. Ruthie Bolton

Sacramento Monarchs 1997-2004

Auburn: WNBA All-Star Game 1999, 2001. All-WNBA first team 1997. Averaged 10.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.2 steals in 218 WNBA regular-season games and 6.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 20 WNBA playoff games.

18. T.R. Dunn

Portland Trail Blazers 1977-78 to 1979-80, Denver Nuggets 1980-81 to 1987-88, 1989-90 to 1990-91, Phoenix Suns 1988-89

West End High School in Birmingham, Alabama: Averaged 5.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.3 steals in 993 NBA regular-season games and 3.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.3 steals in 76 playoff games.

19. Andrew Toney

Philadelphia 76ers 1980-81 to 1987-88

Glenn High School in Birmingham: NBA All-Star Game 1983, 1984. NBA champion 1982-83. Averaged 15.9 points, 2.2 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 468 NBA regular-season games and 17.4 points, 2.3 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 72 NBA playoff games.

20. Mike Mitchell

Cleveland Cavaliers 1978-79 to 1981-82, San Antonio Spurs 1981-82 to 1987-88

Auburn: NBA All-Star Game 1981. Averaged 19.8 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 759 NBA regular-season games and 18.5 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 35 NBA playoff games.

21. Eric Bledsoe

Los Angeles Clippers 2010-11 to 2012-13, 2021-22, Phoenix Suns 2013-14 to 2017-2018, Milwaukee Bucks 2017-18 to 2019-20, New Orleans Pelicans 2020-21

Parker High School in Birmingham: NBA All-Defensive team 2018-2019. Averaged 13.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.4 steals in 756 NBA regular-season games and 11.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.0 steals in 48 NBA playoff games.

22. Wesley Person

Phoenix Suns 1994-95 to 1996-97, Cleveland Cavaliers 1997-98 to 2001-02, Memphis Grizzlies 2002-03 to 2003-04, Portland Trail Blazers 2003-04, Miami Heat 2004-05, Denver Nuggets 2004-05

Brantley High School, Auburn: NBA leader in 3-point baskets in 1997-98. Averaged 11.2 points, 3.3 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 733 NBA regular-season games and 10.3 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 27 NBA playoff games.

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

General

Damaging winds foreseen with thunderstorms to hit Geneva County Sunday

On Sunday at 3:26 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 5 a.m. for Geneva County.

Residents should prepare for wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

“At 3:26 a.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from near Gantt to near Jay, moving east at 45 mph,” states the weather service. “Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Geneva, Hartford, Samson, Coffee Springs, Black, Chancellor, Kellys Crossroads, Lytle, Marl, Logan Field Municipal A/P, Geneva Municipal A/P, Hendrix Crossroad, Somerset, Earlytown, Hacoda, Pera, Spears, Eunola, Weeks and Sellersville.

The weather service comments, “For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.”

Staying safe as lightning approaches: Expert advice

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, consider the following recommendations:

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 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 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:

In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

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 stay cautious:

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 to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

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:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

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 limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected 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.

General

Update: Damaging winds predicted with thunderstorms to hit Barbour and Russell counties Sunday

The National Weather Service issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning at 3:48 a.m. on Sunday in effect until 4:30 a.m. for Barbour and Russell counties.

Residents should prepare for wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

“At 3:48 a.m., severe thunderstorms were located along a line extending from Columbus to near Doster, moving east at 55 mph,” says the weather service. “Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Columbus, Phenix City, Eufaula, Clio, Clayton, Louisville, Blue Springs, Tyler Crossroads, Hawkinsville, Spring Hill, Blue Springs State Park, Osco, Richards Crossroads, White Oak, Doster, Russell County Sports Complex, Gaino, Seale, Comer and Barbour County Public Lake Dam.

The weather service adds, “A Tornado Watch remains in effect until 6 a.m. for southeastern and east central Alabama. Remain alert for a possible tornado! Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. If you spot a tornado go at once into the basement or small central room in a sturdy structure. For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.”

Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines

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 guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:

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.
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.
Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly 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, 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 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.

Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

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 stay cautious:

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

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

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:

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 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.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

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.