The unofficial online home for fans of the UAB Blazers. Part of Collegiate Sports Nation (CSN).

Does anyone know what the stance of Huntsville mayor, Tommy Battle, is regarding the BOT treament of UAH and maybe UAB? I am speaking at a state convention before a large group in Huntsville in a couple of weeks. In my preparation I found it convenient to close with speaking of the value of UAB educated optometrist to the state's citizens. I have also found it appropriate to touch on how important it is to use all opportunities, including athletics, to springboard those conversations. The reason I asked about the mayor is because he will be in attendance. I thought of giving him a shout out regarding working to save UAH hockey and thus maintaining that talking point for UAH. That is of course if he was instrumental in any way of saving their hockey program. I know it doesn't sound like an appropriate place to bring up such conversation but I will be sure to do it in a way that flows with the topic.

He's been pretty outspoken in his support for UAH up here.

Check the quote in my sig.

Mayor Battle is pro-UAH, and realizes UAH and UAB are in the same boat. He responded personally when I sent him an e-mail regarding the situation with the BOT. Mayor Battle is a UAT grad. That doesn't make him a bad guy, but, IMO, it does move him into a different group. When the S#it hits the fan regarding UAH, we will have a bulldog in our corner. When UAB is under the thumb of the BOT, possibly not so much....

I believe he's on the committee that Huntsville leaders put together to discuss the UAH situation.

He is on the committee, or leading contributor to its formation, of the committee regarding possible succession of UAH from the BOT system. There has not been any new developments in the situation since Feb. I think the BOT has been very careful to not interfere in UAH of late (at least since the new Pres. came on board). With Portera out of the way, many people are at least content with the situation. I think the BOT believe they can handle UAB, but not both UAB and UAH at the same time. Stick to your facts about the situation and you should be fine. You probably would get a nice round of applause
In the few dealings I have had with Battle, I will say one thing. He stands up for what is right, not with what is popular. I do not see him having a problem telling the BOT to shove it where the sun doesn't shine if they start to screw with UAH again, regardless of where is degree is from.