AGP Executive Report

Local Health Care: Jackson Hospital in Montgomery says it will not move forward with a July 1 closure process, citing continued talks with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama and saying the emergency department remains open. America 250 Spotlight: Prattville’s Pride of Prattville Marching Band is gearing up for Philadelphia’s July 3 Salute to Independence parade, after a rehearsal sendoff in town; the C-SPAN-televised appearance will be followed by another parade and a Washington, D.C. tour. Sports & Alabama Talent: Two Alabama baseball freshmen—pitcher Myles Upchurch and outfielder Eric Hines—announced they’re returning for the 2027 season. NFL & Alabama Connections: Detroit Lions released former Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold after his Florida felony case; he was also released on $1 million bond. State Policy Changes: Several new Alabama laws take effect July 1, including the return of the 2% grocery tax and a streamlined statewide food truck inspection rule. Public Safety: Heat advisories continue across Alabama with hot, humid conditions and a chance of afternoon storms.

Wildfire tragedy (Colorado-Utah border): Three wildland firefighters were killed and two injured while battling the Knowles/Snyder-area blazes; identified among the dead are Sydney Watson of Warrior, Alabama, plus Emily Barker and Nick Hutcherson. Heat + storms in Alabama: A Heat Advisory stays in effect with heat index values around 105–110°F, while scattered severe storms are possible Tuesday afternoon into evening, with damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph. Politics—Tuberville residency case: Attorneys argued in Montgomery over whether Tommy Tuberville can move forward as a gubernatorial nominee; Judge Brooke Reid didn’t decide and says the Alabama Supreme Court will have the final say. Courts—Roy Moore defamation bid blocked: The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Roy Moore’s attempt to preserve an $8.2 million defamation award tied to a 2017 campaign ad. Economy—grocery tax holiday ends: Alabama’s 2% state grocery sales tax holiday ends June 30, meaning shoppers will pay more starting soon. Local sports—UAB baseball: Meigs County alum Payton Armour transfers to UAB after a standout junior season. Public safety—Alabama death investigation: Authorities say a Lanett man allegedly strangled his girlfriend and then died of a heart attack while disposing of her body.

Wildfire Tragedy (Alabama connection): Federal officials identified three firefighters killed fighting the Knowles Fire in western Colorado, including Sydney Watson, 26, of Warrior, Alabama; two others were injured as the blaze was later overtaken by the larger Snyder Fire along the Colorado-Utah border. Local Roads & Travel: ALDOT is resurfacing 5.4 miles of U.S. 43 near Lake Tuscaloosa starting Tuesday, and the agency is also pausing lane closures and roadwork for the July 4 holiday to reduce crash risk. Public Safety (Heat): Birmingham plans to open nearly a dozen cooling stations when the heat index hits 95+, with water and air-conditioned space available without barriers. Politics (Gubernatorial eligibility): A Montgomery judge heard arguments on whether courts can decide Tommy Tuberville’s Alabama residency for governor, with an appeal expected to the Alabama Supreme Court. Community & Health: Blood Assurance is offering $40 e-gift cards to donors June 29–July 7 as supplies run low. Tourism: A new guide spotlights Alabama’s Black Belt with trip ideas across 23 counties.

Local Government: Cullman City Council approved a one-year moratorium on new data centers, citing concerns about water use, noise, traffic, and community character; the resolution defines large-scale facilities broadly and directs staff to review impacts before recommending zoning changes. State Policy: Alabama Department of Youth Services updated five policies covering outside agency interactions, staff-youth communication, public information, and how youth can file medical grievances. Education Leadership: Etowah County Schools selected Julie Talton as superintendent, pending contract approval, with her start set for Aug. 1. Politics: Alabama GOP dismissed a residency challenge to Lt. Gov. nominee John Wahl, voting 14-4 to reject the bid to disqualify him. Public Safety/Weather: A heat advisory is in effect for Cullman County through Tuesday night, with heat index values forecast up to 105–110 and guidance to slow down and hydrate. Business/Community: Aldi is moving ahead with plans to replace Winn-Dixie/Harveys locations, including a reported Auburn Alabama conversion.

SNAP Scrutiny: Alabama DHR says its SNAP payment error rate rose to 9.52% in fiscal year 2025, noting the figure isn’t a fraud measure and blaming part of the lag on older data, while federal rules could require Alabama to cover a share of benefits. Local Courts: The Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals overturned convictions of newly elected Baldwin County Commissioner John “Tater” Harris, ruling Gulf Shores failed to prove he lacked a valid business license for golf cart rentals. GOP Ballot Fight: The Alabama Republican Party is set to decide whether to hold a full hearing on whether lieutenant gubernatorial nominee John Wahl meets Alabama’s seven-year residency requirement. Housing Politics: Alabama’s U.S. Sens. Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt split on the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, with Trump delaying a signing and tying it to the SAVE America Act. Heat Alert: Central Alabama faces a Heat Advisory with heat index values of 105–110 Monday and Tuesday, urging residents to limit outdoor time and hydrate. Outdoor Montgomery: A free Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest exhibit opens July 6 in downtown Montgomery, featuring 41 photographers and work from 2021–2025. Animal Health: Alabama agriculture officials are tightening entry rules to keep the New World Screwworm out after detections in Texas and New Mexico.

Recruiting: Four-star WR Osani Gayles committed to Alabama for the 2027 class, giving the Tide a major pass-catcher boost and adding momentum with QB recruits already working to build chemistry. NBA: Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. is headed into his NBA role with the Philadelphia 76ers after being drafted No. 22, with fans watching how he’ll fit as a key backup playmaker. Higher Education: UA’s Styslinger College of Engineering jumped to No. 83 overall in U.S. News graduate engineering rankings, the biggest rise in the nation for its category. Public Safety: A father and son were arrested in Montgomery after ADOC and ALEA executed a search warrant and found amphetamines, a stolen handgun, and other contraband. Local Weather/Outdoors: Gulf Shores announced its July parks and recreation lineup, while Lake Martin-area travel coverage highlights Dadeville as a quieter base near Wind Creek State Park. Sports (Youth/Local): Crittenden County’s 8-under softball tournament ended with LSU beating Alabama 5-4 for the title. Boating Safety: Two were ejected and one injured in a Lake Mitchell bass-boat collision; the investigation is ongoing.

Recruiting: Alabama landed a major 2027 target as 4-star WR Osani Gayles committed to the Crimson Tide over Washington and Stanford, crediting wide receivers coach Derrick Nix and Alabama’s “championship environment.” Public Safety: A man was arrested after an alleged contraband attempt at an Alabama prison, with authorities saying packages included marijuana, a fentanyl-positive substance, and cellphones. Health & Safety: The USDA issued a recall for “Molly’s Kitchen California Style Pasta Salad” after mislabeling concerns that it may actually be chicken salad with undeclared allergens; Alabama distributors were among those that received the product. Local Sports/Community: Auburn broadcaster Andy Burcham was inducted into the Alabama Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame. Summer Assistance: Alabama SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) is set to provide $120 per eligible child for summer groceries, with automatic eligibility for many families already enrolled in SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. Weather/Water Safety: Officials reported dangerous rip-current conditions off Alabama’s coast, including multiple days of double red-flag closures.

Asbestos Exposure Mystery: A new look at asbestos warns it can hide for decades inside walls and insulation, but there’s still no clear public system showing where exposure happened or who was affected—leaving many Alabamians to learn too late. College Sports Reform: Sen. Tommy Tuberville argues Congress shouldn’t confuse “momentum” with “merit” in college sports changes, pushing back on the Protect College Sports Act debate. Gulf Coast Reef Project: A former casino boat, the Argosy VI, is set to be sunk off Orange Beach next week to create a major artificial reef habitat. Eye Safety for Summer: National Sunglasses Day spotlights how Alabama’s intense UV and glare from white sand can raise risks like cataracts and corneal sunburn. Local Sports Spotlight: Maryville pole vaulter Sawyer Robinette signs with Alabama Huntsville, while Alabama’s 2026 football outlook faces major roster turnover after NFL departures. NBA Draft Buzz: Former Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. goes No. 22 to the 76ers, with analysts expecting immediate impact. National Headline With Alabama Ties: Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says a false anonymous CPS report led to a 24-hour separation from his twins. Manufacturing Investment: U.S. Steel plans a $75 million upgrade at its Fairfield Alabama plant to expand premium tubular production.

Montgomery-area schools: Etowah County Board of Education selected Julie Talton as the next superintendent, with her start set for Aug. 1, 2026, after Dr. Alan Cosby’s retirement. Roads & construction: ALDOT reopened the northbound Chalkville Mountain Road ramps in Trussville ahead of schedule as part of the I-59 widening project, with the overall project still targeting early 2027 completion. Public safety: Alexander City police issued a warning after a black bear sighting, urging residents not to approach or feed bears and to report sightings to authorities. Healthcare watch: Jackson Hospital postponed a decision on whether it will close, extending uncertainty for Montgomery’s River Region and its workforce. Local politics & housing: Alabama State House District nominee Hanu Karlapalem accused incumbent Parker Moore of being backed by builder and real estate PAC money while staying silent on housing affordability. Crime & courts: A Washington fugitive wanted for assault and rape was arrested in Alabama after a year on the run and is awaiting extradition. Community events: Albertville City Schools will partner with the Food Bank of North Alabama to hand out free summer snack boxes. Gun violence prevention: Lanett is hosting a community rally against gun violence Friday evening with local law enforcement and residents invited.

Space Command Fight: Alabama AG Steve Marshall urged a federal court to toss Colorado’s lawsuit over President Trump’s decision to permanently base U.S. Space Command in Huntsville, calling it “sore loser politics” and defending executive control of national security. Local Infrastructure: U.S. Sen. Katie Britt secured $4 million for the Maxwell Capital Gateway Project, targeting roadway and bridge upgrades on Washington Ferry Road to improve access to Maxwell Air Force Base. NBA Draft (Alabama): Philadelphia selected Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. with the No. 22 pick, pairing him with Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe as the Sixers look for more shooting and ballhandling. Public Safety (Alabama-linked): Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold faces felony kidnapping and armed robbery charges in Florida; prosecutors seek to keep him held without bail pending a pretrial hearing. Community Calendar: Montgomery, Wetumpka and Prattville announced Fourth of July fireworks plans with free major shows across the River Region. Health & Safety: Alabama Gulf Coast cities reported mosquito surges after heavy rain, urging residents to remove standing water as another round of storms looms.

Healthcare Leadership: Cookeville Regional Medical Center named Greg Anderson as its new CFO, tapping more than 20 years of healthcare finance leadership. Reproductive Rights: Alabama and national pro-life groups urged acting U.S. AG Todd Blanche to act on a lawsuit aimed at stopping mail-order abortion drugs. Manufacturing Investment: U.S. Steel’s board approved about a $475M Quench & Tempering Line upgrade at its Fairfield Tubular Operations, touting stronger supply chains and jobs. Housing Politics: Sen. Tommy Tuberville defended his “no” vote on the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, saying HUD spending won’t help the middle class. Public Safety & Local Life: Huntsville police shared an alligator sighting that wandered through a neighborhood before returning to a preserve. State Services: Alabama’s SNAP payment error rate rose to 9.52% in 2025, raising potential state cost-share concerns. Transportation Planning: ALDOT will hold a Mobile-area public input meeting July 6 on bridges and congestion as it updates plans through 2050. Crime & Courts: Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold was charged in Florida with kidnapping and armed robbery tied to a Feb. incident.

NBA Draft Spotlight: Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. landed with the Philadelphia 76ers at No. 22, giving the Tide another NBA moment after a standout season. Local Sports & Legal Trouble: Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold was arrested in Tampa, Florida, tied to an alleged February kidnapping and robbery; prosecutors say he was the “primary conspirator,” and the case could mean life in prison if convicted. North Alabama Business: Take 5 Oil Change opened its first Madison location, bringing a stay-in-your-car oil change model to local drivers. Coastal Alabama Environment: Orange Beach will use an ADEM grant for a stormwater project at its Wind and Water Learning Center, aiming to cut runoff and improve water quality in Wolf Bay. Education Policy: Huntsville school board member Andrea Alvarez says she won’t seek re-election and plans to sue Alabama over the CHOOSE Act. Health & Care: ADPH approved new rules for nursing homes and assisted living facilities, including changes to water temperature limits and hospice eligibility.

Pre-K Expansion: Gov. Kay Ivey announced 64 new First Class Pre-K classrooms for the 2026-27 school year, including 2 in Tuscaloosa County and 4 in Jasper, as Alabama pushes more kids into high-quality early learning. Rural Health Access: Atmore Community Hospital says its ACH Complete Care primary clinic has closed, but the hospital remains open with emergency, urgent care, inpatient and therapy services. Transportation: ALDOT opened the final section of the Linden Bypass, a four-lane link between US-43 and SR-69, aimed at improving safety and reducing downtown congestion. Community & Public Safety: Helena opened Alabama’s 21st Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station No. 2, allowing anonymous surrender up to 45 days with a silent alarm to firefighters. State Politics: A lawsuit is planned by former Huntsville City School Board member Andrea Alvarez challenging Alabama’s CHOOSE Act as unconstitutional. Local Events: Russell County and Fort Benning will host “Freedom 250” on June 27 with performances by Gavin DeGraw and the Plain White T’s. Health Fraud: AG Steve Marshall announced Alabama secured $300,000 in a National Healthcare Fraud Takedown settlement tied to alleged Medicaid billing issues in Smiths Station.

NBA Draft (Alabama): Philadelphia took Alabama guard Labaron Philon Jr. with the No. 22 pick Tuesday night, capping his return to Tuscaloosa after withdrawing from the 2025 draft and his breakout sophomore run. Local Politics (Huntsville): Candidate qualifying closed for Huntsville City Council and Board of Education races, with multiple incumbents drawing challengers and a District 3 BOE contest reshaped after Andrea Alvarez opted out. Courts & Public Safety (Alabama): The 11th Circuit upheld the death penalty conviction of a Gadsden man tied to the 2025 beating death of a 2-year-old girl, and Attorney General Steve Marshall announced the latest denial of relief in the Timothy Boyle capital case. State Policy (Executions): State Sen. April Weaver says she’s ready to push a firing-squad execution method after nitrogen hypoxia was blocked by courts. Health & Community: Fox Army Health Center launched MilTick, letting people bring in ticks for testing and disease tracking. Economy & Jobs: Alabama’s unemployment rate rose to 3% in May, while Walker County jumped to 3.3%. Education: District-level data shows Black Belt elementary students made gains in reading, even as statewide second- and third-grade scores dipped slightly.

Camp Safety: Camp Skyline in North Alabama is upgrading emergency communications with camp-wide handheld radio alerts as part of preparations under the Sarah Marsh Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act, after the Camp Mystic tragedy in Texas. Local Weather & Recovery: Cleanup continues in New Market after an EF1 tornado tore through neighborhoods, snapping trees and downing power lines. Public Safety & Courts: A lawsuit has been filed over the 2024 Oak Grove High School stabbing that left A’laija Brown with catastrophic injuries; she died after surgery at UAB. Housing & Growth: Alabama slid eight spots to No. 21 on a Realtor.com housing affordability and homebuilding ranking, citing weaker permit-to-population numbers. Corrections: Two people were arrested in Barbour County for allegedly trying to bring marijuana, cocaine, and cell phones into Ventress Correctional Facility. Business & Industry: Alabama earned a 2026 Silver Shovel Award for defense and major investment momentum, including U.S. Space Command growth and Eli Lilly’s $6 billion plan. Sports: The 2026 NBA Draft is underway, with mock drafts and trade talk swirling around Alabama guard Labaron Philon.

Alabama Politics: U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s legal team asked a Montgomery court to dismiss a new residency challenge to his governor bid, calling it an “extension” of Doug Jones’ campaign and arguing the GOP nominee already proved Alabama residency. Public Safety: A new Alabama child death review found weapons—mostly firearms—were the leading cause of non-medical, unexpected deaths among children in 2024, with about a third involving guns not safely stored away. Higher Education: The University of Florida board unanimously named Dr. Stuart Bell interim president, while trustees criticized delays tied to the state university system’s leadership. Environment & Courts: A Limestone County court approved a consent order limiting operations at a Bella Mina quarry, including a buffer and rules around blasting after residents and churches raised environmental concerns. Business & Industry: American Crane CEO Karen Norheim won EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year 2026 Greater Philadelphia award. Sports (Alabama ties): With the NBA draft one day away, an AP mock draft projects Alabama guard Labaron Philon going to Miami at No. 13.