News for January 17th 2010

The State of Alabama celebrates the year of the Small towns and downtowns

Alabama is hosting one big yearlong party, and we want you to be a part of the celebration.

Governor Bob Riley has issued an open invitation for former residents and visitors to come and experience the best of Alabama this year during the Year of Alabama Small Towns and Downtowns celebration.

Activities are being held in and around parks, on downtown streets, and at museums and attractions throughout the state.

During homecoming weekends in Alabama, you can witness the unveiling of a locally written historic marker, hear fascinating stories about growing up in the South from local citizens, participate in a downtown walking tour, step back in time to celebrate our history, or experience local culture during any one of the more than 1,600 festivals and events taking place around Alabama this year.

But that’s not all. You’ll see neighbors getting together with neighbors, churches having old-fashioned potluck dinners on the grounds, and museums, old homes and historic attractions beckoning you to step inside for a tour.

We have a lot to celebrate, so come join us! The party starts when you get here!

Edited: January 17th, 2010

Sarah Palin to be VIP guest at Daytona 500

Former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin will be a VIP guest at next month’s Daytona 500.

Daytona International Speedway president Robin Braig says Palin will make her first appearance at NASCAR’s most storied track the day before she serves as guest speaker at the city’s annual chamber of commerce dinner.

Palin won’t have any official role in the Daytona 500, but the former Alaska governor will be introduced at the pre-race drivers meeting along with other celebrities.

Braig says track officials checked with NASCAR’s political advisers before signing off on Palin’s visit. Braig says the reaction was to “showcase her just as much as we would our mayor, our governor or our senators.”

Edited: January 17th, 2010