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Alabama's $7,000 School Choice Credit Program, Fish & Chips, Crochet Kits & More
Alabama's $7,000 School Choice Credit Program, Fish & Chips, Crochet Kits & More
Alabama's $7,000 School Choice Credit Program, Fish & Chips, Crochet Kits & More
Find out what this school choice tax credit is about, beat the heat while checking out a nature trail
The Madison Memo
Jul 6, 2025
Trivia Question❓Where is the best place to enjoy wine and watch the sunset? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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Alabama has launched a new $7,000 school choice tax credit program, allowing parents to use the credits for private school tuition, homeschool expenses, and even tutoring services. The credits are available to families who meet income eligibility requirements and can be used for K-12 education expenses. The program has received support from some lawmakers and education advocates, but critics argue that it could divert funding from public schools. The tax credits are not refundable, meaning families can only use them to offset their tax liability. Read More... |
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Here’s a look at the 5-day weather forecast for Madison, AL:
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How to Beat The Heat |
Q: What’s the best time of day to do outdoor activities?
Q: Where can I cool off locally without heading out of town?
Q: How can I keep my home cooler without blasting the AC?
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The Poppy & Parliament |
... Read this with your best British accent...
Tucked into the heart of downtown Huntsville, The Poppy & Parliament brings a truly British experience to North Alabama. With its bright red exterior and iconic phone booth out front, it’s hard to miss... and even harder to forget once you step inside.
Originally opened as a pub in 2019, The Poppy quickly expanded to include The Parliament, a full-service restaurant that blends traditional English and Irish cuisine with an upscale, Southern twist.
Owned by a Yorkshire native and operated with help from an acclaimed Irish chef, this establishment feels like a trip across the pond... without leaving town. (BTW when will they start having direct flights out of HSV?)
What you can expect...
Authentic Pub Atmosphere: Cozy interiors, outdoor seating, and plenty of charm.
Gourmet Menu: Favorites like fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, frog legs, and mouthwatering steaks.
Specialty Butcher Shop: Upstairs, guests can browse a high-end selection of meats, including beef, pork, lamb, and even imported European goodies.
Top-Tier Drinks: Featuring British cask ales, craft cocktails, and a rotating wine list.
Whether you're stopping by for a pint, planning a date night, or looking for something special to grill this weekend, The Poppy & Parliament offers an experience that’s equal parts hearty, refined, and unforgettable.
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Madison Country Nature Trail |
Tucked away on Green Mountain in southeast Huntsville, a short drive away, is the Madison County Nature Trail. It is a true hidden gem if you are looking to escape the summer heat and immerse yourself in natural beauty.
Spanning 72 acres, the trail system loops around Sky Lake which is a 17-acre lake that reflects the lush tree canopy often hosting turtles, ducks, and the occasional heron. Visitors can enjoy 1.5 miles of easy walking paths, making it ideal for families, seniors, and casual hikers.
What really sets the park apart is its blend of nature and history...
... A restored 19th-century log cabin sits near the lake and is open for tours during the fall season.
... The picturesque covered bridge, built specifically for the park in 1974, is a popular photo spot and wedding backdrop.
... A Braille trail... one of the few in Alabama... makes this park more accessible, with interpretive signage designed for the visually impaired.
The trail is open daily and free to enter, though donations are appreciated to help maintain its serene beauty.
It's especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves reflect a kaleidoscope of color in Sky Lake, but it’s just as peaceful and shady during hot July afternoons.
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These all-in-one kits are winning over even the most seasoned knitters |
It started innocent enough. My wife grabbed one of those cute crochet kits, thinking it would be a fun little side project. Fast forward a week… and now there’s an entire shelf full of them. Turns out, these things are seriously addictive.
She’s not alone either. Crochet kits like these are popping up everywhere... Instagram, craft groups, even popping into conversations with friends.
Knitters who once scoffed at crochet are now totally hooked (pun intended). The best part? They’re beginner-friendly, come with everything you need, and the finished pieces are actually adorable.
If you’ve been looking for a creative hobby that’s equal parts relaxing and rewarding... or the perfect gift... you might want to jump on this before my wife buys them all.
Grab yours today and see why everyone's hooked!
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If y'all travelled out of town for the long weekend, safe travels back home!!! |
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If you have read this far, you may wonder why there isn't any news about accidents, hate and crime and it's because there is just too much of that everywhere else. We want this newsletter to bring you kind awareness and also to help spread joy and information on your Sunday!
Thank you for your support - Robert |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Burritt on The Mountain |