Birmingham's Historic Powell Steam Plant Gets a HUGE Upgrade!

Get ready, ChumCity! The iconic Powell Steam Plant, a Birmingham landmark since the 1800s, is about to get a major glow-up. But this isn't just about prettying up an old building. It's about powering up lives!

KultureCity: Making Magic Happen

Birmingham's own KultureCity, a global nonprofit championing inclusivity, snagged the plant for $11 million! Their mission? To create amazing, accessible experiences for individuals often overlooked. Think sensory-friendly spaces where everyone can thrive.

More Than Just Bricks and Mortar

This isn't your average renovation. KultureCity's vision is to preserve the plant's rich history while transforming it into a beacon of innovation, creativity, and access.

What's on the Horizon?

Imagine this: a sensory play area, a vibrant green space, and an awesome amphitheater. Inside, 80,000 square feet will be transformed into business, entertainment, and event spaces. Plus, an exhibit hall showcasing powerful stories of overcoming challenges. Talk about inspiring!

Birmingham: A Destination for Everyone

KultureCity is determined to make Birmingham a go-to spot for inclusive experiences. They believe everyone deserves to enjoy special events and pursue their dreams, no exceptions.

Timeline: Mark Your Calendars!

Keep an eye out! They're hoping to break ground by the end of 2025, with the grand opening projected for 2028. This project promises to turn something that once powered a city into something that now powers a movement, creating a space where everyone belongs! Get ready, ChumCity - this is going to be epic!

Briarwood Welcomes New Senior Pastor!

Big news for Briarwood Presbyterian Church! Rev. Dr. John Scott Redd Jr. is officially taking the reins as their new senior pastor. He's only the third full-time senior pastor in the church's 65-year history!

The Vote and the Buzz

The congregation gave Redd the thumbs-up on June 15th, and the Evangel Presbytery sealed the deal on July 8th. Mark your calendars: Redd's first sermon as senior pastor is slated for August 3rd.

From Seminary President to Leading the Flock

Redd is currently the president of Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS) in Washington, D.C., and also runs RTS New York. He's been with RTS since '09, previously teaching in Orlando before heading up the D.C. campus in 2012. RTS Chancellor Dr. Ligon Duncan couldn't be happier, calling Redd a "man of deep biblical conviction, pastoral warmth, and theological clarity."

Redd's Thoughts on the Transition

Redd is super grateful for his time at RTS but also pumped to join Briarwood. He said his years at the seminary were "among the most formative and rewarding" of his life.

A Warm Welcome

In a video, Redd and his wife, Jennifer, thanked the congregation for the amazing welcome. Redd said he and his family "can't wait to join you." The Redds are bringing their five daughters – Naomi, Mary, Charlotte, Katie, and Donna – who also got a warm reception during a recent visit.

A Legacy of Leadership

Briarwood was founded back in 1960 by Rev. Frank Barker, who started it all in a little storefront. Barker grew the church to over 4,000 members and oversaw the construction of their current campus. He retired in '99 and passed away in 2021. Rev. Harry Reeder III followed Barker but sadly passed away in 2023. Rev. Dan Doriani stepped in as interim minister.

Filling Big Shoes

Redd recognizes the significance of his new role. "I can't tell you how humbling it is to have the prospect of filling the pulpits of pastors Barker and Reeder," he shared. "God has seen fit to bless the world with His gospel through the ministry of Briarwood Presbyterian Church, and we are thrilled to be a part of this!"

Jay Town Joins Newsmax as Legal Analyst!

Guess who's got a new gig? Former U.S. Attorney Jay Town is heading to Newsmax as a legal analyst! The one-time federal prosecutor, appointed by President Trump back in '17, shared the exciting news on X.

From Prosecutor to Pundit

"Some news: I’m proud to announce I will be joining the NEWSMAX team as a Legal Analyst," Town posted, giving a shout-out to Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy and Greta Van Susteren for the opportunity. "Let’s go!"

A Distinguished Career

Before landing at Newsmax, Town was the VP & General Counsel at Gray Analytics, offering legal advice and counsel to the company. He's also a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, a former judge advocate, and spent years as a senior prosecutor in the Madison County District Attorney’s Office. Town even helped create the Madison County Veterans Court! This guy's got a serious resume!

Huntsville Cracks Top 10 for Renters!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! Huntsville is officially a hot spot for renting, snagging the No. 7 spot in WalletHub's "Best Places to Rent in America"! All those new apartments and rental homes popping up are definitely paying off.

Why Huntsville?

WalletHub, the personal finance gurus, compared over 180 rental markets across the nation, looking at everything from rent costs to job availability and quality of life.

What They Found

Turns out, Huntsville ranked 10th for rental market and affordability and 12th for quality of life. Not too shabby, right? WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said the best cities for renters offer affordable rent (around 15% of your income!) and strong renter protections. Plus, you get a good living experience thanks to a thriving job market and fun recreation options.

How We Stack Up

Other Alabama cities? Mobile came in at 61st, Montgomery at 86th, and Birmingham at 163rd.

The Top Dogs

Rounding out the top 10 are cities like Overland Park, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, Bismarck, Sioux Falls, Peoria, Lewiston, and Nashua.

Courtesy of 256 Today

Tuberville's Governor Bid Heats Up!

Tommy Tuberville, eyeing the Alabama Governor's mansion in 2026, is racking up endorsements like touchdowns on the field! The latest major player to jump on the Coach's bandwagon? None other than the Alabama Bankers Association (ABA).

ABA Banks on Tuberville

The ABA, the voice of Alabama's banking industry, announced their official support for Tuberville. ABA President Scott Latham praised Tuberville as a "bold leader" ready to build alliances and propel Alabama forward. ABA Chairman Dwight Gamble chimed in, highlighting Tuberville's government experience and love for the state.

More Than Just an Endorsement

The ABA isn't just about shaking hands. They're all about policy advocacy, education, and, of course, BANKPAC, their official political action committee. They're betting on Tuberville to champion the banking industry's interests.

Tuberville's Response

Tuberville expressed his gratitude, emphasizing his commitment to Alabama's economic growth and supporting local banks. He even hinted at a potential partnership with President Trump to usher in a "Golden Age" for Alabama's economy.

Endorsement Avalanche

This isn't a solo play! Tuberville's also secured endorsements from Manufacturing Alabama, the Alabama Forestry Association, the Business Council of Alabama, and other big names. Senator Katie Britt is also backing the Coach! Looks like Tuberville is building a strong team for his gubernatorial run.

Alabama Sends More Help to Texas

After sending Alabama Task Force 1, the state has deployed a second wave of rescue workers to Texas. They're headed to assist with the devastating aftermath of the floods that have tragically claimed 131 lives.

Farmland Frenzy: Who's Buying Up Alabama?

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) is raising eyebrows about Chinese nationals owning American farmland. While data shows that foreign entities, including Canada and the UK, hold a good chunk of Alabama land, Strong emphasizes the adversarial relationship with China.

Demands for Transparency in Homewood Shooting

The community is ramping up calls for transparency in the Jabari Peoples shooting by Homewood police. The mayor is pushing for the release of bodycam footage, even before the findings of an independent autopsy.

Saban's Sideline Surprise?

Could Nick Saban be making a coaching comeback? SEC Media Days chatter, especially from “McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning,” hints at the possibility. Lane Kiffin added fuel to the fire, suggesting Saban's "addiction" to the game might lure him back despite retirement.

Tuberville Dismisses Epstein File Release

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) is playing down the importance of releasing Jeffrey Epstein's files. He claims the U.S. has "a lot more problems" to deal with. President Trump seems to agree, saying it’s time to move on.

Bama Prof's ICE Comments Spark Controversy

MSNBC contributor and University of Alabama legal professor Joyce Vance suggests civilians might have a legal right to self-defense against masked ICE agents. Critics are calling it an embarrassment for the school.

Trump Admin Battles and Wins

The Trump administration is challenging a federal order that limits ICE operations in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, they've scored a major victory in their efforts to reform the Department of Education, and are fighting to maintain a pause on billions of dollars.

Dale Jackson

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Alabama Mulls Candy & Soda Ban for SNAP

Is Alabama about to say "no way" to sugary sweets and fizzy drinks funded by SNAP benefits? State Senator Arthur Orr is gearing up to introduce a bill in 2026 that could change the way Alabamians use their food assistance.

Sweet Tooth Showdown?

Orr wants to get a federal waiver, following in the footsteps of states like Idaho, Arkansas, and Utah, to stop SNAP recipients from buying candy and soda. It's all about tackling Alabama's high obesity rate (around 39%) and the health problems that come with it.

Who's Affected?

Around 750,000 Alabamians currently rely on SNAP to put food on the table, including families, seniors, and veterans. SNAP, funded by the feds, helps low-income folks buy groceries.

Health vs. Freedom

Supporters argue taxpayer money shouldn't fuel unhealthy choices, especially with healthcare costs soaring. But critics say a ban won't really solve the problem and might just make life harder for those already struggling. They suggest focusing on affordable, healthy food and better nutrition info instead.

Joining the Movement

Alabama could join a growing list of GOP-led states considering similar moves, including Arizona, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.

The Stakes Are Rising

Get this: states will soon have to chip in for SNAP costs, starting in 2028. The better a state manages the program, the less it has to pay. For Alabama, that could mean footing about 10% of the bill, roughly $172 million a year. Ouch!

Saban's Back? A Coaching Comeback Buzzes at SEC Media Days!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! Greg McElroy, the SEC guru and WJOX radio voice, dropped a bombshell at SEC Media Days in Atlanta: Nick Saban might be plotting a return to the sidelines!

A Prominent Source Speaks

McElroy claims a super-credible source whispered sweet nothings of a Saban comeback. Now, McElroy ain't spilling the beans on who it is, but he vouches for their reliability. Talk about a mic drop!

College or the Pros? The Speculation Game is ON!

The rumor mill is churning faster than a Nick Saban fourth-quarter comeback! Is he eyeing another college gig? Some think it's unlikely, given the wild west of college sports these days.

NFL Bound?

The whispers have some thinking Saban might be setting his sights on the NFL. Andy Staples from On3 thinks the same, stating Saban will not return to college until there is a firm set of rules. His colleague, Ari Wasserman, thinks the college ship has sailed. According to Wasserman, this is NFL chatter!

Far-Fetched, Maybe...But Still!

Saban back in the NFL? That's a headline for the ages! But for now, it sounds like a long shot. Still, you know ChumCity will be all over this story like ants on a picnic, following every twist and turn!

Big Endorsement in the '26 AG Race!

The Business Council of Alabama (BCA), along with its political arm ProgressPAC, just dropped a bombshell endorsement in what's shaping up to be the hottest statewide race of 2026: the battle for Attorney General!

Who Got the Nod?

BCA is backing former Alabama Supreme Court Justice Jay Mitchell for Attorney General. They said this decision came after seriously considering all the candidates, including Katherine Robertson and Pamela Casey.

Why Mitchell?

Helena Duncan, President and CEO of BCA, raved about Mitchell's deep understanding of the law, calling him a "proven ally" to Alabama job creators and a "committed defender of the free enterprise system." They've worked with him before and are confident he's the right person for the job.

Strong Field, Tough Choice

ProgressPAC chairman Gary Smith acknowledged that all three candidates are impressive. However, he said their long-standing relationship with Mitchell, combined with his judicial temperament, legal expertise, and leadership, made him the clear choice.

Pro-Business Background

BCA pointed out that Mitchell's experience representing Alabama businesses before becoming a judge gives him unique insight into the challenges they face. They believe he'll uphold the Constitution, protect Alabamians' rights, and partner with law enforcement and the business community to strengthen the state's legal and economic environment.

Business Community Weighs In

Alabama's business community is always watching the AG and judicial races closely, as they are crucial for maintaining a pro-business legal climate. BCA typically supports candidates who advocate for tort reform, strong property rights, and a predictable legal environment.

Mitchell's Record

BCA says Mitchell's judicial record reflects this philosophy. During his time on the Alabama Supreme Court, he supported opinions limiting civil liability in areas like punitive damages, product liability, and class actions.

Shocker! Rep. Ensler Says "So Long, Alabama!"

Montgomery's own State Rep. Phillip Ensler just dropped a bomb: he's not running for reelection in 2026! The Dem from District 74 says he's heading back to the Empire State after his term is up.

A Fond Farewell

"Words can't express how grateful I am," Ensler said, thanking his supporters for believing in a better Alabama. Elected back in '22, he flipped a redrawn district, snagging 60% of the vote! Not bad for a newbie.

What He Did in the House

Ensler focused on the big stuff: boosting public schools, tackling mental health, and pushing for common-sense gun safety. Remember those "Glock switches" he wanted to ban? Even though his bill didn't make it, a similar one snuck through, thanks to the Guv's "Safe Alabama" plan.

Committees and Caucuses

Currently, Ensler's knee-deep in the House Financial Services, Insurance, and Commerce and Small Business committees. Plus, he co-chairs the Alabama Israel Legislative Caucus, fighting antisemitism and building bridges with Jewish communities.

From Teacher to Politico

This guy's got a story! Ensler landed in Montgomery back in 2012 via Teach for America, slinging knowledge at Lee High School. Then he was a civil rights lawyer and even Mayor Strange's senior policy advisor.

Last Hurrah

"I've made some incredible friends here," Ensler added, promising those relationships are for life. He's got one more legislative session left, kicking off January 13, 2026. What will he do with his last act? Stay tuned, ChumCity!