Alabama Leads Delegation to SEUS-CP Business Forum
News Summary Alabama is set to lead a delegation to the 2025 Southeast U.S.-Canadian Provinces (SEUS-CP) Business Forum, aiming to enhance trade and investment opportunities in food and beverage, advanced manufacturing, and energy sectors. The event, featuring various panel discussions and B2B matchmaking programs, emphasizes Alabama’s commitment to fostering international growth and showcases the state’s […]
New Hemp Product Regulations Create Uncertainty in Alabama
News Summary Alabama’s new regulatory law, HB445, imposes strict regulations on hemp-derived THC products, including taxes and packaging requirements. Business owners are anxious about compliance and sales as unclear communication from the ABC Board adds to the confusion. The law aims to limit youth access to these products but has led to a decline in […]
Demopolis Times Ceases Publication After Over a Century
News Summary The Demopolis Times, a historical newspaper serving Marengo County since 1887, has officially ceased publication as of June 4, 2025. JM Media Group announced the closure, citing limited community support. The final issue marks the end of an important chapter in local journalism, leaving many residents reflecting on the newspaper’s significant contribution to […]
Closure of Sarris Cafe Marks End of an Era in Pelham
News Summary Sarris Cafe, a beloved cafeteria-style restaurant in Pelham, Alabama, has officially closed its doors after nearly 20 years of service. The sudden closure, announced on May 27, 2025, has left many loyal customers heartbroken. The owner, Nick Sarris, cited financial difficulties and declining profits as the primary reasons for shutting down the establishment. […]
Alabama Enacts HB 445 to Regulate THC Products
News Summary Alabama has passed House Bill 445, regulating the hemp industry and banning smokable THC products while allowing consumable THC with strict limits. Governor Kay Ivey signed the bill amid concerns from local businesses about potential financial losses. Effective July 1, 2025, with enforcement starting January 1, 2026, the law limits THC to 10 […]
Fifth Circuit Delays Implementation of Corporate Transparency Act
News Summary The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has indefinitely delayed the financial disclosure requirements of the Corporate Transparency Act, providing temporary relief for small businesses. This ruling reinstates an injunction blocking beneficial ownership reporting, initially set to enforce in January 2025. Legal uncertainty remains as the court prepares to hear the […]
New Vice President Appointed at SmartBank in Alabama
News Summary SmartBank has appointed Casey Greb as the new vice president and regional retail manager, responsible for retail banking operations in northern and central Alabama. With a strong background in banking, including a previous role at Regions Bank, Greb aims to enhance SmartBank’s services and support growth in the competitive retail banking market. Her […]
Citizens Trust Bank Appoints New Alabama Market President
News Summary Citizens Trust Bank has announced the appointment of Walvid D. King, Sr. as the new Alabama Market President. In this role, King will lead strategic initiatives that prioritize community partnerships and drive economic growth across the state. His extensive background in business development and community engagement will support the bank’s continued commitment to […]
Melanie Bridgeforth to Resign as WFA President
News Summary Melanie Bridgeforth will step down as President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation of Alabama in February 2025, after leading substantial growth since 2018. Under her leadership, the foundation significantly increased revenue and supported women’s empowerment initiatives, including landmark legislative achievements. As the search for her successor begins, the WFA remains committed to […]
Paradigm Investment Group Sues Hardee’s Over Franchise Control
News Summary Paradigm Investment Group has filed a lawsuit against Hardee’s parent company, seeking to retain control over 76 fast-food locations amid claims of bad faith practices. The lawsuit highlights disagreements over franchise agreements, operational hours, and undisclosed fees. Paradigm asserts that it has invested over $173 million in the restaurants, while also raising concerns […]