Lawsuit Adds Sordid Details to Alleged Bentley Affair
As families and friends gathered for Thanksgiving last week, political watchers in Alabama had a feast of their own to dig into — new details about the alleged affair between Governor Robert Bentley and his former top advisor Rebekah Mason. The information comes by way of a wrongful termination lawsuit filed by Wendell Ray Lewis. He’s the governor’s former security chief. Bentley’s lawyers say the details in the lawsuit aren’t true and it’s a money grab at taxpayers expense. But it’s still a blow to Bentley, who has maintained there was not a physical relationship. Alabama Media Group columnist John Archibald discusses this and allegations of pay-to-play among minority contractors in Birmingham.
Pope Leo’s religious community is drawing renewed interest. Here’s what makes it unique
"Before, we might get two or three discerners. But after Pope Leo, I now have 15. It's unbelievable."
The CDC still hasn’t issued COVID vaccine guidelines, leaving access in limbo
Access to the COVID-19 vaccines remains difficult because of an unusual and unexplained delay by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in accepting recommendations from its advisers.
National Guard presence may deter crime, but experts warn of the long-term costs
As President Trump ramps up efforts to send federal officers and troops into cities, criminologists are watching closely. Are the feds doing this in a smart way?
Coalition raises concerns surrounding manufacturer’s environmental, labor practices in small Alabama town
The report from the Good Neighbors Alabama coalition concerns the Neptune Technology Group plant in Tallassee.
AI designs for dangerous DNA can slip past biosecurity measures, study shows
Companies that make DNA for science labs screen out any requests for dangerous bits of genetic material. But a new study shows how AI could help malevolent actors get the stuff anyway.
Taylor Swift, George Orwell and Dwayne Johnson are in movie theaters. Take your pick
In cineplexes this weekend, Dwayne Johnson plays UFC fighter Mark Kerr, while Taylor Swift debuts a new music video. A new documentary pairs real-world footage with George Orwell's prescient words.
