• Birmingham’s AMC Lee Branch Closes Amid Industry Decline

    Birmingham’s AMC Lee Branch Closes Amid Industry Decline

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — AMC Classic Lee Branch 15, a long-standing fixture in Birmingham’s moviegoing scene, closed its doors Sunday after 21 years in operation. Located along U.S. 280, the theater was a convenient alternative to the more crowded AMC Summit 16 and featured amenities like its Big D auditorium, known for superior picture and sound…

  • Alabama Lawmaker’s ‘Chemtrail’ Bill Draws Fire, Fuels Conspiracy Debate

    Alabama Lawmaker’s ‘Chemtrail’ Bill Draws Fire, Fuels Conspiracy Debate

    MONTGOMERY, Ala. — In a move that has sparked widespread debate, Rep. Mack Butler, R-Rainbow City, introduced a bill in the Alabama Legislature aimed at prohibiting the dispersion of chemicals or substances into the atmosphere to alter weather or sunlight, drawing concern and fueling “chemtrail” conspiracy theories. The proposal was discussed by a legislative committee…

  • Alabama infant killed in dog attack, highlighting risks of familiar pets

    Alabama infant killed in dog attack, highlighting risks of familiar pets

    ALABASTER, Ala. — A six-month-old girl died after being attacked by a dog at her great-grandparent’s home on March 14, underscoring the dangers posed by family pets. Ember Southard was fatally injured when she fell to the floor and was mauled by one of two dogs in the house, a pit bull mix. Despite efforts…

  • Proposed Raise for Alabama Superintendent Sparks Debate Over Public Salaries

    Proposed Raise for Alabama Superintendent Sparks Debate Over Public Salaries

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A proposed $90,000 pay raise for Alabama State Superintendent Eric Mackey has reignited debate over public salaries in a state where many educators and workers earn significantly less. If approved, Mackey’s salary would increase from $292,500 to $380,000, making him the highest-paid K-12 education official in the state and one of the…

  • Alabama Library Controversy Highlights Broader Anti-Intellectualism Debate

    Alabama Library Controversy Highlights Broader Anti-Intellectualism Debate

    MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The firing of Alabama Public Library Service Executive Director Nancy Pack on March 20 underscores a growing cultural battle over library content in the state. Conservative lawmakers and advocacy groups have intensified efforts to control what they deem “inappropriate” materials in public libraries, particularly books addressing LGBTQ+ themes, racial justice, and gender…

  • Amazon’s Algorithmic Tactics Undermined Union Effort in Bessemer, Study Finds

    Amazon’s Algorithmic Tactics Undermined Union Effort in Bessemer, Study Finds

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A new study reveals how Amazon deployed algorithmic management to quash unionization efforts at its Bessemer warehouse, reinforcing concerns over corporate surveillance and worker suppression in the heart of the Deep South. The study, published in Socius: Sociological Research for a Dynamic World, details how Amazon used digital monitoring and automated systems…