Shoals Area Site Earns Platinum Recognition!

Big news for Northwest Alabama! An industrial site near Muscle Shoals and Florence just scored a major win, snagging a platinum designation from the national REDI Sites Program. That's like winning the gold medal for business-ready locations!

Shovel-Ready and Raring to Go

This isn't just any plot of land. This Norfolk Southern rail-served site has it all: rail access, utilities, a skilled local workforce, and a can-do business vibe. The platinum stamp means it's prepped for quick development, catching the eye of companies worldwide.

What the Experts Say

"This highlights our commitment to top-notch, shovel-ready locations," says MaryBeth Flournoy of Norfolk Southern. Ellen McNair from the Alabama Department of Commerce added that it "reinforces the Shoals region’s standing as an industrial growth market."

Investing in Alabama's Future

Norfolk Southern is doubling down on Alabama, investing in infrastructure to boost rail capacity between Northern Alabama and key markets via the Port of Mobile.

The Shoals: Open for Business

Kevin Jackson, president of the Shoals Economic Development Authority, emphasized that the area, with its available sites and buildings, is a competitive hub for manufacturing. This designation only strengthens that position!

Big Win for Mobile Bay? Alabama House Says "Yes!" to Limiting Mud Dumping!

Get ready, ChumCity! The Alabama House just gave a HUGE thumbs-up to HB181, a bill designed to curb the disposal of dredged material in our beloved Mobile Bay. Think "mud dumping" is a dirty word? This could be a game-changer.

State Rep. Rhett Marques (R-Enterprise) is the bill's champion, and he says it's all about balancing protecting our beautiful bay with keeping the Port of Mobile – and Alabama's coastal economy – thriving. The idea is to keep that shipping channel open while minimizing the environmental impact.

What's the Deal with Mud Dumping?

Environmental advocates have been raising red flags about "mud dumping" for ages, saying it's messing with the bay's delicate ecosystems. But the bill's supporters argue that this new legislation hits the sweet spot: protecting the environment without hurting our wallets.

"This shows we can tackle environmental concerns without crippling business," Marques declared after the House vote. "I'm super proud to have sponsored this and see it pass!"

Mobile Baykeeper is Pumped!

Local environmental groups are stoked about the bill's passage. Mobile Baykeeper took to social media to celebrate, calling it "a major win for Mobile Bay and a real step toward ending mud dumping once and for all!" They point out that this disposal practice has been burying oyster reefs and seagrass, the very foundation of our coastal fisheries.

So, What Does HB181 Actually Do?

Basically, it sets new rules for handling dredged material from our coastal waterways, especially in Mobile Bay.

• Dredging will continue, BUT...
• At least 70% of the dredged material HAS to be used for "beneficial purposes" – think marsh creation, shoreline protection, habitat restoration, or even industrial/commercial uses.
• Just dumping it into public waters won't cut it, unless it's part of a specific restoration project.

Supporters say this closes a loophole that let dredged material be labeled "beneficial" even when it was just being dumped in the bay.

Conservative AND Eco-Friendly?

Rep. Marques is adamant that Alabama should be a leader in coastal stewardship. "This legislation reflects conservative principles: protect what drives our economy, use taxpayer dollars wisely, and follow the science on what works."

Senate on Board?

And get this – on Wednesday morning, the bill also passed through the Alabama Senate County and Municipal Government committee! State Sen. Chris Elliott (R-Josephine), who's working with Marques on this, said the goal is to bring environmental and business interests together.

"Mobile Bay is one of Alabama's greatest economic assets, and protecting it strengthens, not weakens, our business climate," Elliott stated. He believes these bills will keep our ship channel navigable while using better dredge-management practices that actually help our coast. Senator Elliott also made a Facebook post on Wednesday about signing HB 181 out of committee saying, "Seeing this bill passed has been one of my top legislative priorities this session," said Sen. Elliot. "Representative Rhett Marques has done a fantastic job shepherding this legislation through the House. We’ll get it across the line in the Senate."

It can be voted on and passed by the Alabama Senate as soon as Thursday.

Joining the Coastal Cool Kids Club!

Supporters say this move would put Alabama in the company of other coastal states like Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina, and Virginia, all of whom have rules about dredged material disposal. Could this be the start of a cleaner, healthier Mobile Bay? We're keeping our fingers crossed!

Alright ChumCity citizens, get ready for some football... and some serious opinions!

Super Bowl Buzz... and Fury!

Even though college ball reigns supreme 'round these parts, you KNOW Alabama's gonna be glued to the Super Bowl next weekend. But not everyone's thrilled about it!

Tuberville Tackles the NFL

Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) isn't mincing words about the league's recent "woke" antics. He's made it crystal clear he and many Alabamians have had enough!

Belichick Snub Sparks Outrage

This week, the internet exploded when coaching legend Bill Belichick didn't get a first-ballot Hall of Fame nod. Tuberville didn't hold back on "The Scott Jennings Show," blasting what he sees as everything wrong with the NFL.

"It's a disgrace," Tuberville declared, adding the committee members who didn't vote for Belichick "should step down immediately!"

Woke Bowl Woes?

Then came the Super Bowl itself, the halftime show featuring "Bad Bunny," and the general state of the league. "The NFL is in a tailspin," Tuberville fumed, "since Colin Kaepernick took a knee and all this woke nonsense."

He continued, "I don’t call this the Super Bowl with this rabbit or bunny guy or whatever he is at halftime. I call it the woke bowl. It’s all about money... not representing our country, but representing themselves and showing how great they are. It’s sad how we’ve let team sports get to this point."

So, who's ready for some football? And who's ready for some serious debate? Get ready, ChumCity, it's gonna be a wild ride!

The Big Game Details

The Patriots and Seahawks will face off next Sunday, February 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, CA.

Trump Praises Senator Katie Britt at Summit

President Trump took a moment during a recent summit to give a shout-out to Alabama Senator Katie Britt. The summit, which brought together administration officials, CEOs, and philanthropists, saw Trump unveiling his new "Trump Accounts" program.

What Are Trump Accounts?

The program aims to deposit $1,000 for every child born between 2025 and 2028, offering a potential boost for families.

Britt's "Unbelievable"

Trump singled out several attendees, including Senator Britt and her husband, Wesley, for praise. "A friend of mine, a Senator who has been unbelievable," Trump said of Britt, calling her a "tremendous woman."

Gridiron Greatness

He also joked about Wesley Britt's NFL career, saying, "Married to a great football player. She's married. Her husband is a massive man!" Trump continued, "This guy, he played in the NFL, I guess for 11 years. He was top of the line player. I met him, I said, that's not a normal situation. Look at this guy, this guy was seriously powerful, big, and he's as nice as he is big, and she is one of our best senators — Senator Katie Britt."

Britt Champions the Program

Senator Britt, who sits on the U.S. Senate Banking Committee, spoke on a panel at the summit, promoting the benefits of Trump Accounts.

Launchpad for the Next Generation

"Trump Accounts are all about moms and dads across Alabama and our nation being able to help build a strong future for their kids," Britt said. "From education to homeownership to starting a small business, this is a real launchpad for the next generation."

"Thank You, Darling"

Trump seemed genuinely appreciative of Britt's support, exclaiming, "Senator Katie Britt, thank you, darling from Alabama! I love Alabama. We love Alabama."

Bessemer City Schools Board Grounded!

Hold the presses, ChumCity citizens! Alabama education officials have dropped a bombshell, suspending the Bessemer City Schools Board of Education from holding regular meetings. Yep, you read that right! It's a rare move that shows the state is serious about its role in shaping local schools.

What's the Deal?

The Alabama State Department of Education put the brakes on the elected Bessemer City Schools Board of Education's regular shindigs. They're citing the district's current state intervention and good ol' Alabama law as the reasons.

Flashback to Fall 2024

Remember back in the fall of 2024? That's when the Alabama Board of Education swooped in and took charge of Bessemer City Schools, thanks to the Educational Accountability and Intervention Act. They even appointed a Chief Administrative Officer to call the shots for the local board and superintendent.

Advisory Only

Under state law, the local board is basically an advisory panel during this intervention. They can only meet if the state superintendent or Chief Administrative Officer gives the thumbs up. But state officials decided these meetings weren't really making a difference and pulled the plug on regular meetings until further notice.

"Still Technically Office Holders"

State Superintendent Eric Mackey says the board is still in office, but no more regular meetings. He told WBRC that, "Meetings are suspended until further notice. They are still technically office holders subject to the law.”

Doubts Remain

Mackey has been vocal about his worries regarding governance in the district. He's said there's not a whole lot of confidence in the local board's leadership. Ouch!

The Stakes

Bessemer City Schools educates over 3000 students, so this is a big deal!

What's Next?

State officials aren't saying when, or if, the local board will regain its authority to hold regular meetings. The intervention is still ongoing, so the state remains in charge. Stay tuned, ChumCity, for more updates!

Alabama House Gives UA Social Work a Rethink

The Alabama House just shook things up, passing HB152 on Thursday by a 76-14 vote! This bill would ditch the 1965 law that forced the University of Alabama to have a separate School of Social Work. It's heading to the Senate now.

What's the Big Deal?

Right now, UA is the only school in Alabama that has to have a specifically structured social work school. This bill, brought forth by State Rep. Danny Garrett (R-Trussville), would give UA the freedom to reorganize as they see fit.

Why the Change?

Garrett says UA is all for it, especially with the move towards outcome-based funding. The School of Social Work, with 647 students (329 undergrads and 318 grad students), has one of the smallest enrollments at UA.

No Program Cuts!

"All this bill does is repeal the mandate," Garrett insisted, calming any fears. He claims it won't kill the program, but instead, gives UA some much-needed flexibility to make things better. "I've gotten no indication that they want to diminish the program."

Dems Have Questions

Of course, there were questions! Democrats wondered why the mandate was there in the first place, and if getting rid of it could make the program weaker.

Streamlining for Success

Garrett made it clear the current setup creates roadblocks and that removing the mandate will "helps them meet the job demands of the state."

Backstory

The School of Social Work was born in '65 because Alabama was desperately short on trained social workers. Before that, fewer than 100 served the entire state, and 48 counties had none!

The Future

Because the legislature created the school, UA needs legislative action to make any big changes. Thursday was Day 8 of the 2026 legislative session.

Birmingham Mayor in Hot Water!

Okay, ChumCity crew, buckle up! Word on the street is Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin had a little chat with Jefferson County Commissioner Lashunda Scales. A chat involving... threats? Apparently, Woodfin, who claims he never threatens anyone, may have done just that.

Audio Evidence?!

And guess what? Someone recorded the whole shebang! Once the audio of said "chat" hit the airwaves, Woodfin seems to have decided damage control was the name of the game. His brilliant strategy? Deflect attention to a story about... well, let's just say it involves a certain part of the male anatomy. Seriously.

Birmingham's Embarrassment?

Look, we're not ones to judge (okay, maybe a little), but this whole situation is giving us major second-hand embarrassment. Is this really the leadership Birmingham deserves?

Dale Jackson from Yellowhammer News and WVNN thinks so too.

Alarming Trend: Alabama Law Enforcement Under Fire

It's a gut-wrenching reality: Alabama has seen a surge in law enforcement deaths. Since 2019, over a dozen brave officers and deputies have been fatally shot while serving our communities. Many more have suffered critical injuries.

These aren't just statistics; they're heroes who put their lives on the line every single day. There's no such thing as a "routine" call when you're protecting and serving.

The Danger Within: Beyond the Criminal Element

Sadly, the dangers aren't limited to criminals. A growing threat comes from "woke," soft-on-crime prosecutors and judges who seem to prioritize criminals over the safety of law enforcement.

The Case of Officer Aaron Cody Smith: A Travesty of Justice

Look at Montgomery Police Officer Aaron Cody Smith's case. This young officer, with a wife and three kids, faced a nightmare after a late-night pursuit of a burglary suspect.

Officer Smith used non-lethal methods initially, but when the suspect charged with a metal pole, Smith was forced to defend himself. The suspect died, but Smith was then prosecuted for murder, despite acting in self-defense and trying to save the suspect's life.

A Champion Emerges: Justice Jay Mitchell

Thankfully, one person in the Alabama judicial system stood tall: Jay Mitchell. As a Justice on the Alabama Supreme Court, Jay penned a courageous opinion calling Officer Smith's prosecution an "astonishing failure" of justice. He affirmed the right of all Alabamians, including police officers, to defend themselves.

Thanks to Jay, Officer Smith is now free, back with his family, and even welcomed a new baby boy. Without Jay's courage, Smith could still be behind bars.

Jay Mitchell: A Proven Defender of Law Enforcement

Jay's record on criminal justice is unmatched. He consistently defends the brave men and women who protect us. He overturned the outdated "year and a day rule," preventing murderers from escaping justice. He's consistently ruled against special treatment for convicted criminals. And when a local judge tried to let felons walk free without bail, Jay led the charge to stop it.

The Future of Law Enforcement Safety: Jay Mitchell as Attorney General

As our next Attorney General, Jay will keep fighting for our police. He'll lock up violent criminals and keep them off our streets. He'll ensure no officer suffers the injustice Officer Cody Smith endured.

If out-of-touch prosecutors try to target our cops, Jay will step in. He'll use his power to prevent future miscarriages of justice.

With Jay Mitchell at the helm, Alabama's law enforcement will know they can do their jobs with confidence, knowing they won't be punished for protecting themselves and our communities.

The Honorable Michael F. Bolin served as an Associate Justice on the Alabama Supreme Court from 2005 until 2023. He now serves as a Jefferson County Commissioner.

Senior Bowl Showdown in Mobile!

Mobile's buzzing! It's Senior Bowl week, y'all, and NFL scouts are flocking to our sunny shores. This is where the college elite show their stuff!

Bama vs. Auburn: The Rivalry Lives On

During practice, things got spicy! Coaches threw Alabama's pass-rushing phenom against Auburn's O-line titan, Jeremiah Wright. Fireworks ensued! Wright shut down Overton in an awesome 1-on-1 battle.

From Enemies to Teammates (Sort Of)

Game day pits the American team against the National squad, and these rivals will be sharing a uniform. But make no mistake, the Bama-Auburn rivalry's still crackling. Now they're fighting for draft picks, not just bragging rights!

Alabama Stands Strong Against Eco-Overreach!

Alabama Republicans are marching to the beat of President Trump's "gold standard science," pushing legislation to shield the state from suffocating environmental regs stricter than the feds'.

The Dynamic Duo: Chesteen and Stubbs to the Rescue!

State Senator Donnie Chesteen (R-Geneva) and State Representative Troy Stubbs (R-Wetumpka) are leading the charge with SB71 and HB162. Their mission? To prevent state agencies from imposing environmental standards that are tougher than Uncle Sam's. If there's no federal standard? No problem! Agencies can still regulate, but only with rock-solid science backing them up.

Beware the Outside Agitators!

But hold on! Left-wing groups, some even fueled by George Soros, are fighting back. Energy Alabama is urging lawmakers to ditch the bills, claiming they'd handcuff regulators and let utilities like Alabama Power dump pollution costs on you, the customer.

Follow the Money!

However, Energy Alabama's opposition comes as the group has received funding from a network of left-wing aligned organizations and progressive funding pipelines. In 2023, Energy Alabama received $150,000.00 from the Tides Foundation. Energy Alabama has also received support from groups including Alabama Forward, Multiplier, and the WestWind Foundation.

The Usual Suspects

Tides is notorious for funneling cash to left-wing causes, raking in millions from George Soros' Open Society Foundation. Alabama Forward? Reportedly tied to critical race theory and funded by the Southern Poverty Law Center, with links to Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, and more. Multiplier pushes the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, while WestWind funds environmentalist and pro-abortion groups.

SELC Joins the Fray

The Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) is also campaigning against the bills, claiming they'd cripple Alabama's ability to set its own rules for water and air. And guess what? According to Cause IQ, the SELC received a cool $250,000 from the Tides Foundation's Frontline Justice Fund in March 2024.

Showdown in Montgomery!

Get ready for a State House showdown! It's Alabama families versus out-of-state puppets peddling Obama-era eco-scams. Who will win? Stay tuned!