the handle on Alabama
Odd State Facts
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In 1836, Alabama became the first U.S. state to officially recognize Christmas as a holiday
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Huntsville, is the “Rocket Capital of the World”, central to the development of the U.S. space program.
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Though often associated with New Orleans, Mardi Gras actually started in Mobile, Alabama, in 1703.
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College football, especially the rivalry between the Univ of AL & Auburn, is almost a religion in Alabama.
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Rickwood Field in Birmingham, built in 1910, is the oldest professional baseball field in the U.S.
State Politicians
Governor
Kay Ivey (R)
Elected in 2017, under her leadership, the state has seen record-high employment rates and substantial infrastructure investments aimed at boosting job opportunities across rural and metropolitan areas
Senator
Katie Britt (R)
Elected in 2022, Britt is Alabama's first female Republican senator. Previously, she led the Business Council of Alabama and served as chief of staff for Senator Richard Shelby. She emphasizes economic growth, education, and military support.
Senator
Tommy Tuberville (R)
Serving since 2021, Tuberville is a former college football coach with a focus on education, agriculture, and veterans’ issues. He advocates for rural development and military readiness.
Political Controversy
​1986 Democratic Primary Controversy: The Alabama Democratic primary for governor became infamous when the party’s leadership controversially intervened. After Charlie Graddick narrowly won against Bill Baxley, party leaders disqualified his win, arguing it was influenced by crossover voting from Republicans. They declared Baxley the nominee instead, triggering widespread backlash. This move unexpectedly led to a Republican victory, electing Guy Hunt as Alabama’s first Republican governor in a century
State Sports
Alabama is not home to any professional sports!
Alabama is however home to several NCAA Division I athletic programs across multiple universities:
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University of Alabama (Alabama Crimson Tide) – Competing in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Alabama is known for its powerhouse football team, multiple NCAA championships, and strong programs in basketball, baseball, and gymnastics.
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Auburn University (Auburn Tigers) – Also in the SEC, Auburn's athletics include a highly competitive football program and robust teams in basketball, swimming, and equestrian.
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University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB Blazers) – Part of the American Athletic Conference, UAB’s teams excel in basketball and have recently reinstated their football program, which has seen growth and success.
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Troy University (Troy Trojans) – Competing in the Sun Belt Conference, Troy offers D1 programs in football, baseball, basketball, and softball, with football being particularly competitive within the conference.
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Alabama State University (ASU Hornets) – A member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Alabama State fields teams in football, basketball, and track and field.
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University of North Alabama (UNA Lions) – UNA recently joined Division I and competes in the ASUN Conference, with a strong emphasis on football.
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Samford University (Samford Bulldogs) – Competing in the Southern Conference, Samford has notable programs in football and basketball.
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Jacksonville State University (JSU Gamecocks) – Recently transitioning to the FBS level, JSU competes in Conference USA with strong teams in football and rifle.
University of Alabama’s Division I History: Roll Tide!
One of the most memorable University of Alabama football championships was the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship game against Georgia. Trailing 13-0 at halftime, Alabama head coach Nick Saban made the bold decision to replace starting quarterback Jalen Hurts with freshman Tua Tagovailoa. Tagovailoa sparked an incredible comeback, culminating in an overtime victory. His game-winning 41-yard touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith sealed Alabama's 26-23 win, capturing their 17th national title and showcasing a thrilling comeback under high pressure.
Notable Golf History
Alabama has several notable private golf courses that have hosted PGA tournaments. The Shoal Creek Club, near Birmingham, is perhaps the most famous, having hosted the PGA Championship twice, in 1984 and 1990, along with the Regions Tradition from 2011 to 2015 and the U.S. Women’s Open in 2018. This course is highly respected for its challenging layout and has hosted various prestigious golf events over the years.
1990 PGA Championship
In 1990, Australia’s Wayne Grady won his only major championship at Shoal Creek. Grady played a steady game, with rounds of 72, 67, 72, and 71, finishing three strokes ahead of runner-up Fred Couples. Despite tough conditions and a competitive field, Grady maintained his lead in the final round, holding off Couples, who faced challenges on the last few holes. This win solidified Grady’s standing in professional golf, making his name synonymous with this famous Alabama course.
The Shoal Creek Club, Birmingham AL
PGA Champion, Wayne Grady