Birmingham a Hot Spot for Grads!

Heads up, ChumCity! The Wall Street Journal just dropped some serious love on Birmingham-Hoover, naming us a top metro in the whole country for recent college grads looking for their dream jobs!

Magic City's Pull

According to an ADP Research study, our third-largest metro is becoming a major magnet for fresh-faced talent. What's the secret sauce?

BBA's Bragging Rights (Rightfully So!)

The Birmingham Business Alliance is understandably pumped about the top-five ranking. They took to social media to shout out why the Magic City keeps attracting the best and brightest.

What Makes BHM Special?

"Birmingham is a place where young professionals can thrive," they posted. "With our affordable cost of living, vibrant industries, and talent-focused programs... more of them are choosing... to build their careers and their futures here."

Key Players in the Game

The WSJ article highlighted UAB, UAB Hospital, and other major players in healthcare, finance, and tech as key contributors to Birmingham's success.

The Ranking Rundown

ADP crunched the numbers on 55 metro areas (with populations over 1 million), judging them on annual wages, hiring rates, and affordability.

The Competition

Other cities in the top five included Raleigh, NC (taking the top spot!), Milwaukee, WI, Baltimore, MD, and Austin, TX. Birmingham's in good company!

Tuberville Sounds Off on Immigration

Senator Tommy Tuberville, never one to mince words, recently hopped on The Cats Roundtable to chat with John Catsimatidis about the ongoing battle against illegal immigration. Since taking office in 2021, Tuberville has consistently championed stronger border enforcement.

"Pulling a Rabbit Out of a Hat"

Tuberville (R-Auburn) believes Trump is "trying to pull a rabbit out of a hat" to revive the country after what he sees as four years of Democratic mismanagement. A key part of that? Immigration. He highlighted efforts to build the wall, funded by what he calls "the Big, Beautiful bill," and the push to hire more ICE agents and Border Patrol officers.

The High Cost of Illegal Immigration

The senator didn't hold back on the financial burden of illegal immigration. He pointed out that taxpayers are footing a hefty bill—around $70,000 a year per person. But there's a silver lining: over a million folks have reportedly opted for self-deportation, accepting offers to have their trip home paid for. Tuberville praised Trump and ICE for targeting criminals, cartels, and human traffickers.

Alabama Bust Highlights the Issue

Tuberville cited a recent Alabama raid on a Mexican restaurant, which he said uncovered cartel drug lords and human trafficking activity.

Blaming Liberal Policies

He attributes many immigration enforcement issues to liberal policies, particularly in cities like Los Angeles. According to him, "paid protestors" are clashing with ICE agents, creating dangerous situations involving violence and even gunfire.

Fighting the Onslaught

Tuberville has introduced legislation like the Border Safety and Security Act and the Stopping Border Surges Act, aiming to tackle illegal immigration head-on.

Alabama Political Donations Under Scrutiny in Alleged $140 Million Ponzi Scheme!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! Alabama officials are digging deep into the connections between political donations and a massive alleged Ponzi scheme run out of Georgia. The Alabama Securities Commission (ASC) just announced an investigation into First Liberty Building & Loan LLC and its main player, Edwin Brant Frost IV. He's accused by the SEC of ripping off investors to the tune of $140 MILLION!

Money, Money, Money...In the Wrong Pockets?

Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen is calling on any candidates or committees who took cash from Frost or his businesses to hand it back to the court-appointed receiver ASAP. Allen stated he takes "allegations of financial fraud seriously, especially when that fraud bleeds into campaign finance.”

Who Got the Dough?

Campaign finance records show over $132,000 from Frost and his crew landed in the coffers of Alabama politicians over the last four years! State Auditor Andrew Sorrell, State Rep. Ben Harrison, and State Board of Education member Allen Long are among those who received funds.

"A Madoff-Like Ponzi Scheme"?!

Sorrell says he lost money himself in this mess and that he will return all contributions as soon as the court allows. He noted the company marketed itself as a "patriotic" and "Christian" investment. Yikes. Harrison claims ignorance as well and promises to find a way to return the cash.

Georgia on Our Minds (and in Our Wallets?)

The Frost family didn't just spread the wealth (allegedly ill-gotten) in Alabama. Big names in Georgia and even Florida took contributions too! Georgia's Secretary of State is also urging the return of those donations.

Got Info? Spill the Beans!

The Alabama Securities Commission wants anyone with information to give them a ring at 1-800-222-1253. Let's help them get to the bottom of this ChumCity!

SEC Media Days: Predicting the Future!

SEC Media Days in Atlanta just wrapped up, and you know what that means? It's prediction time! Media folks in attendance cast their votes on how the season will shake out, giving us an early glimpse into potential standings and award contenders.

Surprises and Snubs?

This year's vote definitely stirred the pot, sparking some serious debate about the predicted order of finish.

The Texas Longhorns snagged the top spot with a whopping 96 first-place votes, edging out the Georgia Bulldogs (44 votes). Could we be looking at a rematch of last year's SEC title game?

Top Contenders

The Alabama Crimson Tide landed in third place (29 first-place votes), closely followed by the LSU Tigers in fourth (20 votes). Could these four teams dominate and snag spots in the College Football Playoff?

The Rest of the Pack

After the top four, things got interesting. The South Carolina Gamecocks claimed fifth (five first-place votes), while the Oklahoma Sooners, despite finishing 10th overall, managed to snag three first-place votes. The Florida Gators and Vanderbilt Commodores also earned a couple of top spot votes, finishing sixth and 13th, respectively.

Ole Miss Rebels (seventh place), Tennessee Volunteers (ninth place), and Auburn Tigers (11th place) each received a single first-place vote.

All-SEC Standouts

South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers may be the All-SEC preseason first-team quarterback, but Alabama's Ryan Williams and Kadyn Proctor also made the cut. Auburn's Cam Coleman and Keldric Faulk snagged first-team honors too.

Alabama dominated the second team, landing Jaeden Roberts, Tim Keenan III, LT Overton, Deontae Lawson, and Domani Jackson.

Auburn didn't secure any second-team spots, but Eric Singleton, Xavier Chaplin, Connor Lew, and Alex McPherson made the third team. Alabama's Jam Miller, Keon Sabb, and Bray Hubbard also claimed third-team honors.

The Countdown Begins!

With just over a month until kickoff, the hype is real. Preseason awards are just a taste of what's to come. Get ready for an electrifying SEC season, ChumCity!

Celebrating a Century of Service!

The Guntersville VA threw an awesome pre-birthday bash for William Morrow, a WWII Army vet! This Blount County native hits the big 1-0-0 on July 26th – talk about a milestone!

A Hero's Journey

As WHNT reported, Morrow served our country from '43 to '45. This incredible man is a Purple Heart recipient, having faced serious injuries, including shrapnel wounds suffered in England.

"Tough" Times and Hard-Earned Honors

Morrow described the war as "tough," remembering intense frontline experiences. He also earned a French Liberation Medal while serving in France. Huge respect!

Family & Wisdom

Back home in Alabama, Morrow's been surrounded by his amazing family: kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids! He says they are "a very important part of him." Awww!

Morrow's Life Lessons

His secret to a century well-lived? Simple advice: "It’s been a good life. Try to be honest. Pay your debts and do unto others as you’d have them do unto you. That’s a good one." And the ultimate key? "Love everybody." We couldn't agree more!

Mobile's I-10 Bridge Gets a Boost!

Alabama Congressmen Shomari Figures and Barry Moore are teaming up! They're backing a new bill that could finally get the I-10 Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project rolling. It's called the Bridge Investment and Modernization Act.

What's the Deal?

Figures, along with Rep. Mike Ezell from Mississippi, introduced the bill. It aims to keep the cash flowing for bridge projects until 2031, giving the Mobile bridge a much-needed shot in the arm.

Cutting Through the Red Tape

The bill tweaks the 2021 Bridge Infrastructure Program, making it easier to get federal funding for big projects. This means less fuss and faster progress on vital connections like the I-10 between Alabama and Mississippi.

Figures Speaks Out

"This bill is a step in the right direction," says Figures. "It will help communities be better connected by working to ensure the completion of infrastructure projects all across America.”

Moore's On Board Too!

Moore jumped on board as a co-sponsor, excited about the possibility of speeding up construction.

Why It Matters

"Alabama’s economy depends on strong roads and bridges," Moore explained. "This bill makes critical reauthorizations to move federal dollars where they’re needed most while cutting the bureaucratic red tape." He also noted that the bill will allow for “continued investments in American infrastructure and specifically advances projects like the I-10 Bridge and Bayway Project in Mobile, making travel safer and easier for so many across the Gulf Coast."

What's Next?

Keep your eyes peeled! The Bridge Investment and Modernization Act is expected to be part of a bigger transportation package hitting the floor later this year or early next. Fingers crossed for smooth sailing!

Soldier Shows Grit at National Best Warrior Competition!

Spc. Jaden Hughes, a total rockstar representing the Alabama Army National Guard, recently braved the grueling Army National Guard's 2025 National Best Warrior Competition in Maryland! Think sweltering heat, killer humidity, and a five-mile Medal of Honor Run designed to push these competitors to their absolute limits.

The Medal of Honor Run: A Test of Endurance

Imagine this: Hughes, along with thirteen other elite guardsmen from across the nation, tackling brutal terrain, with each station honoring Maryland's Medal of Honor heroes. By the fifth station, exhaustion was setting in BIG TIME.

A Boost from the Top!

But guess who was there to cheer Hughes on? None other than the Alabama Army National Guard’s State Command Sergeant Major, Command Sgt. Maj. John Elmore! He was shouting encouragement as Hughes powered through, clutching the Alabama state flag. That's some serious motivation!

Unity is Key!

"Unity goes from the top down and the bottom up," Hughes emphasized. Seeing leadership supporting the troops gives you that extra kick to keep going!

Road to Nationals

Hughes earned his spot at Nationals after dominating both the 2025 ALARNG Best Warrior Competition and the Region III Best Warrior Competition. Talk about a winning streak!

Building Tomorrow's Leaders

The National Best Warrior Competition isn't just about individual glory; it's about teamwork and forging lasting bonds. As Command Sgt. Maj. Elmore put it, it’s all about "building teams, building unity, building tomorrow’s soldiers and leaders." Hughes is creating friendships that will last a lifetime!

Extra Push for the Win!

Hughes joked that he was saving a little extra energy to impress Command Sgt. Maj. Elmore at the finish line. That's dedication!

A Wrap Up

The competition, lasting from July 14th to 18th, culminated in a ceremony to announce the National Soldier of the Year and Noncommissioned Officer of the Year. Huge props to all the competitors!

Tuberville's Gubernatorial Bid Gains Steam!

Looks like U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville is racking up endorsements left and right as he gears up for a potential run for Alabama's governor in 2026. The buzz is real, folks!

Construction Industry Backs Tuberville

The latest big news? Both Alabama chapters of the Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. (ABC Alabama and ABC North Alabama) are officially Team Tuberville! They believe his experience working with construction bigwigs makes him the perfect candidate.

Why ABC is on Board

Tim Harrison, Chairman of ABC of Alabama, says Tuberville "simply gets us and understands our industry." According to Harrison, Tuberville has been a "vocal champion" for Alabama construction companies, fighting against government interference and understanding the industry's workforce woes.

Tuberville's Response

Tuberville expressed his gratitude, saying he's "honored" to have their support. He also acknowledged the vital role they play in ensuring fair competition, training, and safety in the construction world.

A United Front for Alabama's Future?

ABC emphasizes that this endorsement represents the opinions of thousands within the state's construction industry. They're calling on all Alabamians to join them in backing Tuberville for Governor. ABC Alabama and ABC North Alabama represent over 700 construction and related firms across the state.

Dobson Talks Priorities in Secretary of State Bid

Caroleene Dobson, candidate for Alabama Secretary of State, recently sat down with Capitol Journal to chat about her vision for the office, with election integrity front and center. This Beatrice native and accomplished conservative attorney, currently a shareholder at Maynard Nexsen specializing in natural resources, commercial finance, and real estate law, is ready to roll up her sleeves.

A Focus on Alabama's Future

"I truly believe everyone in Alabama, regardless of party, wants a brighter future for our kids," Dobson shared. "As a mom myself, and after talking with countless voters from all walks of life, it's clear we all want safer communities and more opportunities right here in Alabama."

Voter Rolls and Election Integrity

Dobson emphasized her commitment to ensuring that only eligible Alabamians are voting in Alabama elections, labeling the voting of non-citizens as "disenfranchisement" of legitimate voters.

"As Secretary of State, I will make sure we maintain accurate voter rolls, so only legal Alabama residents are casting ballots," she stated. "It's crucial to remember that when non-residents or non-U.S. citizens are on our voter rolls, they are silencing the voices of Alabamians who are working to improve our state. I take that very seriously."

An Election Crimes Team?

Drawing inspiration from Florida, Dobson also discussed the potential creation of an election crimes team dedicated to combating voter fraud.

"The goal would be to assemble a team of election experts within the Secretary of State's office," she explained, "working hand-in-hand with law enforcement and prosecutors to investigate and prosecute those who attempt to violate our election laws. Any breach of our election laws undermines the voice of every rightful Alabama voter."

Background and the Race Ahead

Born and raised on a Monroe County farm, Dobson holds a degree from Harvard College and is a graduate of Baylor University School of Law. She now faces off against Alabama State Auditor Andrew Sorrell in the Republican Primary for Secretary of State.

Etowah County: A New Chapter?

Etowah County might just be on the verge of something big! State Sen. Andrew Jones believes the future's looking bright, hinting at a real "sea change" for the area.

From Legacy to Looking Ahead

Remember when Goodyear and Gulf States Steel closed up shop, leaving a big hole in the local economy? It's been a journey to recover, but local leaders have been working hard to find a fresh path forward.

The Mega-Site Factor

A key part of that plan? A massive 1,200-acre mega-site right off I-59, complete with rail access. With the state investing $17 million, Jones calls it "the best piece of property in the state that's ready to go." They're looking for a major employer to bring serious jobs to the area – think thousands, not just a handful.

Investing in the Future

But it's not just about one big site. Gadsden State Community College has a brand-new advanced manufacturing facility to train folks for those in-demand, high-paying jobs. Plus, an $8.5 million Challenger Learning Center is on its way, aiming to get kids excited about science and tech.

A Region Reinvented

According to Jones, these moves - training workers, sparking interest in STEM, and having a prime location ready - could really transform Etowah County. He points out that Etowah County is adapting, saying “If you’re not evolving your business landscape and your climate, you’re going to be behind." The pieces are falling into place for growth, mirroring what's happening across North Alabama.

Come See for Yourself!

Jones sums it up best: “Big things are happening in Etowah County. Everybody should come check it out.”