Ty Simpson's Faith Shines at NFL Combine

Former Alabama Crimson Tide QB Ty Simpson is heading for the NFL, and his commitment to his faith is stronger than ever.

Faith on the Field

During this week's Combine, Simpson was quizzed about his beliefs. He delivered a powerful response, emphasizing how he uses his platform to give glory to God. He shared how scripture has been a constant throughout his football journey.

Finding Peace in Scripture

"John 3:16 is a staple, but Micah 5:5 really hits home," Simpson shared. "It speaks to God being your peace." He emphasized how crucial this is in the high-pressure world of the NFL. "You wanna perform, impress, but God put you here for a reason. Praying and saying His name gives me peace."

Honoring God Through Football

Talking about faith and football brings him a "great, heartwarming feeling." Simpson believes he's on this earth to play football and honor God. "Talking about my faith at the NFL combine is just one step in making sure I honor Him even more when I get to play."

More Than Just Football

Simpson, who led the Crimson Tide to the SEC title game and the College Football Playoff, will be representing Alabama and, more importantly, glorifying God as he chases his NFL dreams.

Rep. Moore Stands Strong With Trump on Iran

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens, because the debate on what to do about Iran's nuclear ambitions is heating UP! Our very own U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), who's also eyeing a Senate seat, is throwing his weight behind President Trump.

Trump's Frustration Mounts

The Prez himself admitted he's not thrilled with Iran's reluctance to play ball and ditch those nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs. It seems Trump's patience is wearing thin, and he hinted at more talks to come.

Moore Says "Bomb Away (If Needed)!"

WVNN's "The Yaffee Program" recently grilled Moore about whether he'd back the President in case he decides to, well, send in the bombers. Moore's response? A resounding "Absolutely!"

Backing the Prez's Call

According to Moore, Trump has "led" while Iran has "killed," allegedly 32,000 of its own citizens. Moore believes that if the President feels a strike is necessary, it would be strategically sound. He also noted Trump's preference for a peaceful solution.

A Blast From the Past?

Moore thinks the current Iranian regime is a massive problem for the region and would love to see a return to a pre-1979 Iran, where, in his view, people (especially women) had more rights and liberties.

Trusting Trump's Gut

With the U.S. beefing up its military presence in the Middle East (hello, USS Gerald R. Ford!), Moore says he trusts Trump's judgment, citing the President's supposed past successes in foreign policy.

Mobile Bay: A Deep Dive into Our Coastal Treasure

Mobile Bay, Alabama's biodiversity hotspot, is a sprawling estuary encompassing 413 square miles! Maintaining its health is paramount. The Mobile Bay National Estuary Program (MBNEP) is leading the charge. They just dropped an updated "State of the Bay" report. Let's explore what it means.

A New Leader at the Helm

Jason Kudulis, a Mobile native, is the new MBNEP Director! He's stepping into the role after Roberta Swann's retirement. Kudulis emphasizes the "State of the Bay" report's comprehensive scope, covering Mobile Bay, the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, and connecting estuaries.

The "State of the Bay": A Coastal Gumbo

"It's a gumbo of data," Kudulis says. Marine science, ecosystem management, land use, population shifts - all stirred into one comprehensive snapshot. This tells us where we stand regarding the health of our Bay. The good news? Massive investments from the Deepwater Horizon settlement are making a real difference.

Priorities Driven by Locals

MBNEP's work is guided by community priorities, outlined in their Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan. Improved access, healthy beaches, thriving wildlife, cultural heritage, resilience, and water quality are all key. Conservation efforts (like Forever Wild) and restoration projects are boosting community resilience and stressed habitats. More access points are popping up too!

Room to Grow: Monitoring & Data

Keeping up with monitoring and data collection is key. It's a constant challenge to understand this complex system. The Mobile Bay watershed sprawls across 65% of Alabama and parts of neighboring states! It's home to a mind-boggling array of species, from birds to shrimp.

Human Impact & Climate Change

Ongoing research aims to pinpoint the effects of human activity, climate variability, and extreme weather. Kudulis emphasizes the need for up-to-date data. "You can’t rely on the old data," he says. Things are changing fast!

"State of the Bay": Made Easy

The 204-page "State of the Bay" report? It took over a year to compile. It's designed to be user-friendly, presented in a question-and-answer format to gauge whether things are improving or not. Anyone can understand it!

What's on Our Minds? Water Quality

Water quality, location-dependent, is a major concern, as is stormwater runoff, potential pollution sources, and headwater wetlands conservation. Kudulis notes that recent regulation changes by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) are positively impacting our fishery.

Collaboration is Key

ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship chairs the MBNEP Executive Committee. He's excited to work with Jason and continue improving Mobile Bay. Blankenship recognizes the strong staff at MBNEP and feels the organization is in good hands.

Hands-On Experience

Kudulis has been deeply involved in MBNEP projects, including those at Deer River, Fowl River, and D’Olive Creek. In Deer River, a 19-acre containment site was built, utilizing material from the Mobile harbor deepening. This will become a tidal creek network and marsh!

Looking Ahead: The 10-Year Plan

The recently completed Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan is MBNEP's 10-year roadmap. They're moving beyond playing catch-up, aiming for a deeper understanding and proactive management of our coastal resources.

An Educated & Informed Community

Attitudes are shifting! Elected officials and the public are more aware of the importance of stormwater management, extreme weather preparedness, and water quality. "Now you have this educated and informed army of decision makers," Kudulis says. This shift allows for strategic investments and proactive mitigation using nature-based solutions and green technologies.

A Shared Understanding

MBNEP is committed to finding the best data to guide management decisions that impact our coastal lives. "They're basically inseparable from the woods and water that we work, live and play in," Kudulis says. Our heritage, economy, and quality of life are all interconnected!

Get Ready for a Wild Ride: Alabama's Open Senate Seat!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity folks! The Heart of Dixie's about to get a major political shakeup. We've got a rare open U.S. Senate seat up for grabs, and the race is on!

Why This is a Big Deal

Normally, we'd be looking at Senator Tommy Tuberville settling in for his second term, but his surprise run for Governor has thrown everything into exciting chaos. This senate seat doesn't open up every day, so expect some fireworks.

It's a GOP Showdown

Let's be real, Alabama's a Republican stronghold. That means the real battle will be the GOP Primary on May 19th. Think of it as the election.

The Contenders

The field is set with five vying for the Senate seat: Attorney General Steve Marshall, Congressman Barry Moore, Navy Seal Jared Hudson, former Trump/Tuberville staffer Morgan Murphy, and businessman Rodney Walker.

More Than Just Ideology

A U.S. Senator needs to be more than just a talking head. They need to be effective advocates for Alabama. Think of Senator Richard Shelby who secured huge economic wins for UAB, Huntsville, and Mobile.

Echoes of Greatness

Alabama's had some legendary Senators like Lister Hill and John Sparkman. Shelby joined that pantheon and perhaps surpassed them all.

Speaking of Shelby...

Shelby took the economic foundations laid by Hill and Sparkman to new heights. He, along with the respected Senator Howell Heflin, formed a powerful team for Alabama.

Enter Katie Britt

Thankfully, Shelby mentored Katie Britt, who is poised to become one of Alabama's greatest Senators. She's already off to an amazing start, securing impressive committee assignments that are unprecedented for a freshman.

The Race Heats Up

Originally, it looked like a battle between Marshall and Moore. But now, with Trump's endorsement and the Club for Growth's support, Moore has become the frontrunner.

Money Talks

The Club for Growth's backing is huge because money matters! It buys media, and media exposure translates to votes.

An Ideologue Incoming

No matter who wins, Katie Britt will have an ideologue colleague in the Senate. Buckle up, ChumCity, it's going to be an interesting ride!

Sunrise, Lakes, and a Whole Lotta Clean-Up!

Ain't nothin' finer than a sunrise shimmerin' over an Alabama lake! And thanks to folks like Mike Clelland and the Environmental Affairs (EA) crew, those views stay gorgeous and our waterways stay spick-and-span.

Clelland's Commitment

For nearly two decades, Mike's been at the helm of Alabama Power's Renew Our Rivers (ROR) program. Imagine the sunrises he's witnessed while gettin' the EA boat ready! He and the team are always there early, ensuring every event runs smoother than a freshly waxed boat hull. They even scout ahead, pinpointing those pesky trash hotspots before the volunteers arrive.

By the Numbers

In 2025 alone, Clelland and his EA squad orchestrated 28 ROR events statewide. Can you believe over 3,500 volunteers pitched in to yank out a whopping 243,000 pounds of junk? Since ROR first launched on the Coosa River in Gadsden, these champions of clean have hauled a staggering 13.7 million pounds of debris from our precious Alabama waterways.

Ready for More!

After a short winter break, Clelland's itching to get back on the water, pumped for another incredible cleanup season. "After 26 years, our volunteers are still excited about Renew Our Rivers," says Clelland. "They understand the value, seeing the big improvement afterwards. They’re ready to get out there.”

Refresh and Reset

Around 27 cleanups are already marked on the 2026 ROR calendar. Kicking things off on March 7th is the annual Valley Creek Cleanup, reachin' from Adger to Bessemer to Birmingham and Providence. Jefferson County's Reilly Farrell and his team have partnered with ROR for 16 years, targetin' debris in local streams. They're all about keepin' our waterways clean and protectin' our environment.

Why It Matters

Farrell describes ROR as an "uplifting event" that gives residents a chance to live in a cleaner, greener community. "We’re looking to get rid of anything that doesn’t belong in the water,” he says. “It’s important to rid the streams of plastic bottles because they put off dangerous toxins that can leech into the water and damage the ecosystem.”

ROR volunteers are a diverse bunch, includin' folks from homeowner and boat owner associations, civic groups, and even Boy and Girl Scout troops. Everyone's welcome to roll up their sleeves and join the fun!

Baumhower's Victory Grille: 45 Years of Alabama Flavor!

Can you believe it? Alabama's own Baumhower's Victory Grille is celebrating 45 years of serving up deliciousness! What started as one little spot in Tuscaloosa has blossomed into an Alabama institution.

From Tuscaloosa to Statewide Sensation

Back in '81, Alabama football legend Bob Baumhower (yeah, THAT Baumhower!) introduced Buffalo-style wings to the state. Now, Baumhower's is a family-run chain across Alabama, thanks to Aloha Hospitality Group. They're all about scratch-made food, a love of sports, and giving back to the community.

Celebrating 45 Years the Right Way

To celebrate this huge milestone, Baumhower's is throwing it back to '81 with some awesome deals! Get ready for "Wingsday" with wings at an unbelievable price. Plus, fan fave Alabama Hot Chicken is back, and you can score tasty meals at wallet-friendly prices on the "Affordable All-Stars" menu!

More Than Just Wings

Baumhower's isn't just a restaurant; it's a community hub. Through the years, they've supported veteran groups, schools, churches, and tons of local charities. They're a true Alabama original!

A Legacy of Pride and Community

For Bob Baumhower, this anniversary is about more than just the years. It's about celebrating Alabama pride, strong community ties, and the dream that started it all over four decades ago. Here's to many more years, Baumhower's!

Alabama's Lost Grasslands: Can We Bring Them Back?

Alabama, famed for its forests and rivers, was once a tapestry of vibrant grasslands and prairies. These ecosystems, especially in the Black Belt, have dwindled to a mere fraction of their former glory, with over 90% lost. If we don't act fast, we risk losing the incredible biodiversity that depends on them.

A Glimpse into the Past

Imagine Alabama in the early 1800s: vast prairie systems teeming with life. Lush grasses and wildflowers thrived, shaped by natural fires and grazing animals. But as agriculture boomed, cotton and other crops replaced these native habitats, and fire suppression allowed trees to encroach.

The Dire Situation

Some estimate that up to 99% of Alabama's original prairie habitat is gone or drastically altered. Despite being one of the most biodiverse states, our grasslands are among the most threatened. The Southeastern Grasslands Institute emphasizes the urgency, stating that "grassland loss is the single greatest conservation issue" facing eastern North America.

Why Grasslands Matter

These ecosystems are vital for Alabama's environmental health. Native grasses boast deep roots that stabilize soil, prevent erosion, and enhance water infiltration. Above ground, they provide crucial habitat for pollinators, migratory birds, and game animals like quail and wild turkey. Many unique plant species call these prairie remnants home.

A Seed of Hope: Statewide Collection

In a promising move, the Southeastern Grasslands Institute launched a major project to collect native prairie seeds across Alabama, aiming for 200 collections by fall 2027. This initiative will preserve local plant genetics and create a seed bank for future restoration efforts. Locally sourced seeds are crucial because plants adapt to specific conditions over time.

The Seed Banking Process

Collecting seeds is no easy feat. Researchers must locate viable plant populations, secure landowner permission, monitor plant development, and harvest seeds carefully. The collected seeds are then cleaned, cataloged, and stored for the long term.

Funding and Support for Restoration

The goal extends beyond preservation. The institute plans to collaborate with growers to increase the supply of native prairie plants and develop a commercial market. The Alabama Black Belt Prairie Initiative is also providing funding for restoration efforts. Federal programs offer cost-sharing opportunities for habitat restoration, including prescribed burning.

What This Means for ChumCity

While Alabama's grasslands have suffered, hope remains. From seed collection to local restoration, dedicated individuals and organizations are working to rebuild these vital ecosystems. Every action counts!

Your Role in Restoration

Whether you own land, plant native species, or support conservation programs, you can make a difference. Organizations like the Alabama Wildlife Federation are working to raise awareness. Let's work together to ensure the survival of Alabama's prairies and the amazing wildlife they support. The time to act is now!

Alabama Politics: Is the GOP Crumbling?

Is Alabama's Republican party imploding thanks to some good ol' fashioned infighting? We're diving deep!

Epstein Files: Will Truth Finally Emerge?

Also this week: the much-anticipated Epstein Files release. Will they expose anything new and shocking? Stay tuned!

Get the Scoop All Week Long!

Catch "Alabama Politics This Week" on TV, radio, and online platforms across the state for the full breakdown. We're everywhere you are!

The Experts

Mecca Musick: The brains behind 256 Today. Be sure to subscribe to their newsletter to keep ahead of the curve.

Dale Jackson: A leading voice at Yellowhammer News, and your morning wake-up call on WVNN from 5-9 a.m.

ASFA: Where Art Meets Awesome (and Math Rocks!)

Hey ChumCity folks! Ever heard of the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) in Birmingham? This place is seriously cool. It's a public school smack-dab downtown for grades 7-12 that's all about mixing serious academics with wild creativity. Got artistic talent or love numbers? ASFA might be your jam! Even better? They've got boarding options if you're not a local.

Dive Deep into Your Passion

Imagine a school where you get to spend extra time every day geeking out over what you love. That's ASFA! They offer specialized programs in creative writing, dance, math-science, music, theatre arts, and visual arts. It's like a superpower-training program for your brain and artistic soul!

Math-Science: Not Your Average Lab Coats

The Math-Science Department is HUGE at ASFA. They're all about pushing boundaries, encouraging experimentation, and thinking outside the box. Forget boring lectures—think hands-on research and mind-blowing projects. These students are prepping to become the STEM stars of tomorrow!

Excellence is the Name of the Game

ASFA's Math-Science crew wants to set you up for life. Expert teachers deliver a super-charged STEM curriculum in a fun environment. You'll discover your potential through lab work, competitions, workshops, and deep-dive research.

Level Up Your Skills

They crank up the intensity with college-level courses in math, science, computer science, and engineering. It's all about sharpening your analytical skills and getting creative with problem-solving. Admission is competitive (spots fill up fast!), so bring your A-game.

Tech, Labs, and Research: Oh My!

Get ready for a tech-fueled learning experience! Think coding, robotics, and all sorts of cutting-edge stuff. They emphasize exploration and critical thinking, letting you dig deep into what fascinates you.

Research Rules!

ASFA students get to work with real-deal mentors from universities and research institutions. We're talking serious experience in scientific writing, data analysis, and communicating complex ideas. Past partners? The University of Alabama, UAB, Samford, and more!

Senior Symposium Showdown

Every year, ASFA's seniors blow minds with their research projects. Last year's examples? Everything from using AI for cancer diagnosis to developing awesome new materials for shock absorbers. Some students even scored a spot at the prestigious Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair!

The Results Speak for Themselves

ASFA students are total rockstars. This year, they racked up National Merit Finalists and Presidential Scholar Candidates. They dominated science fairs and competitions, and their grads go on to slay at top universities. Confidence, passion, and a thirst for knowledge? ASFA's got it covered!

Alabama Port Authority Gets a Fresh Look, Launches "Mobile America Express"

The Alabama Port Authority just unveiled a brand-new look and a seriously cool logistics platform called Mobile America Express (MAX). Officials are saying this is a HUGE deal for Alabama's economy, boosting the state's global trade game.

More Than Just a Waterfront

The Port of Mobile, Alabama’s only deep-water seaport, is vital for connecting businesses across the state – from farmers to manufacturers – with markets all over the world. This rebrand is all about emphasizing the Port’s role as a major statewide economic driver.

New Look, New Platform, Same Mission

The new branding includes a spiffy new logo and the Mobile America Express service platform. The goal? To highlight Alabama’s awesome logistics infrastructure, available industrial sites, and skilled workforce.

Serving All 67 Counties

According to Doug Otto, director and CEO of the Alabama Port Authority, the new branding reflects the Port's broader economic influence. It's not just about Mobile anymore! The Port serves every single county in Alabama, supporting economic opportunities across the entire state. Think deep water access, unmatched rail/highway/waterway connections, and a workforce ready to rock.

What is Mobile America Express?

MAX, the Mobile America Express logistics platform, is designed to make it super easy to access Alabama’s transportation network. This includes rail, highways, inland waterways, air connections, and intermodal facilities.

Connecting Alabama to the World

The big idea is that MAX will connect Alabama businesses more efficiently to both domestic and international markets. By integrating transportation assets, it'll also help Alabama attract new investments.

Infrastructure is Key

With five Class I rail connections, inland waterways, major interstate access, and air connectivity, the Port of Mobile supports exports, manufacturing growth, and investment throughout Alabama. "Economic development depends on infrastructure," Otto said. "That infrastructure is our greatest strength."

Investing in the Future

The Alabama Port Authority is constantly investing in terminals, intermodal facilities, and inland logistics infrastructure to keep Alabama competitive in the global market.

A Port for the Entire State

The message is clear: Alabama’s port belongs to everyone in the state, and its benefits extend far beyond the Gulf Coast.