Pruitt Family Football Dynasty: A Plainview Story

Football is practically a religion in Alabama, and for the Pruitt family, it's in their DNA. Jeremy Pruitt, the former Alabama defensive guru and Tennessee head coach, has rediscovered his roots alongside his legendary father, Dale.

A Coaching Dream Team

Dale Pruitt, a coaching icon at Plainview, has dedicated 30 seasons to the Bears. This year, facing family health challenges, he almost hung up his whistle. But Jeremy stepped up, offering to take on a larger coaching role to ease his father's burden.

Pruitt vs. Pruitt: The Ultimate Coaching Debate?

"The only bad thing is he's usually right when we disagree," Dale joked about working with his son's brilliant defensive mind. "He thinks he's always right, but most of the time he is!"

Undefeated Bears!

The Bears are tearing it up this season, heading into the second round of playoffs with a perfect record against Alexandria. As Jeremy gears up for his next chapter at Jacksonville State, this is a season the Pruitts will cherish forever.

Rep. Aderholt Champions Adoption Reform!

Our man in Washington, Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), is pushing for some serious changes when it comes to adoption. He's just introduced the Adoption Deserves Oversight, Protection, and Transparency (ADOPT) Act, designed to shield adoptive families, kids, and expectant moms from those shady, unlicensed adoption intermediaries.

Bipartisan Support for a Great Cause!

Aderholt isn't going it alone! He's joined by a crew of co-sponsors from across the aisle, including Reps. Danny K. Davis (D-Ill.), Laurel Lee (R-Fla.), and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.). Talk about teamwork!

Protecting Families, Ensuring Ethical Practices

"Every child deserves a loving home," Aderholt declared, slamming those who exploit vulnerable birth mothers and hopeful adoptive parents. The ADOPT Act aims to keep adoption providers and attorneys operating only where they're licensed, giving families access to trustworthy, regulated services.

Cracking Down on the Bad Guys

This bill also tackles the commodification of children by holding those bad actors accountable. It sets up oversight to stop intermediaries who are operating outside of acceptable moral and ethical standards.

Senate Support!

Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) has already introduced similar legislation in the Senate, showing that both chambers of Congress are ready to fight for ethical adoption practices! Britt emphasized Congress's responsibility to protect everyone involved in the adoption process from exploitation.

A Step in the Right Direction

Introduced during National Adoption Month, the ADOPT Act is a big step towards ensuring safe, transparent adoption practices for everyone involved. Let's hope it passes!

Knight Lights Up Jordan-Hare!

Auburn cruised to an easy win against Mercer this past Saturday, but the real story? Freshman Deuce Knight's unbelievable debut!

Redshirt Strategy Leads to Explosive Debut

With starting QB Ashton Daniels strategically sidelined to preserve his redshirt eligibility, all eyes turned to Knight. While everyone expected just a few snaps against an FCS opponent before Daniels returned for the Iron Bowl, Knight had other plans.

Six Touchdowns?! Seriously?!

The young phenom accounted for a mind-blowing six touchdowns! Four on the ground and two through the air. The fireworks started immediately with a 75-yard touchdown scamper on the very first play. He added another long TD run just minutes later!

Iron Bowl Implications?

Knight finished with a stunning 239 passing yards and 162 rushing yards. It's almost unthinkable considering Daniels' recent success against Vandy, but Coach Durkin has to be considering Knight for the Iron Bowl, right?

What's Next?

While starting a true freshman in his first SEC game against Alabama seems unlikely, a package designed to get Knight involved feels almost inevitable. And if Daniels struggles? Don't be surprised to see Knight take the reins, no matter the magnitude of the game. Based on Saturday's performance, he's definitely up for it!

D.C. in Lockdown After Shooting Near White House

Chaos erupted near the White House Wednesday afternoon, triggering a lockdown after a shooting involving two West Virginia National Guardsmen. Officials are describing the incident near Farragut Square as a targeted attack.

Targeted Attack on Guardsmen

Reports indicate the shots rang out around 2 p.m. EST while the Guardsmen were on a "high-visibility patrol." Initial reports of their death were later corrected by West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, who stated the Guardsmen were in critical condition. "Our prayers are with these brave service members, their families, and the entire Guard community," Morrisey shared.

Suspect in Custody

Authorities swiftly apprehended a lone suspect, who was wounded in the exchange of gunfire. The suspect's identity remains undisclosed.

Trump Responds

President Trump, in Florida for Thanksgiving, announced the deployment of 500 additional National Guard troops to D.C. He expressed outrage on Truth Social, vowing the shooter would "pay a very steep price."

Alabama Reacts

Back in Alabama, officials are expressing condemnation and offering prayers.

Alabama Leaders Respond

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville called the act "disgusting" and unacceptable. U.S. Senator Katie Britt urged prayers during the chaotic situation in the nation's capital. U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer called for prayers for all those affected. U.S. Rep. Dale Strong joined the call for prayer and justice for the victims. Several candidates for office in 2026 including U.S. Rep. Barry Moore, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, and Katherine Robertson, Chief Counsel to AG Steve Marshall, all expressed prayers and solidarity. Former Alabama Supreme Court Justice Jay Mitchell also conveyed his dismay at the attack.

Beyond Turkey Day: Let's Talk "Thanksliving"!

The Good Book tells us to "pray without ceasing," and a HUGE part of prayer is giving thanks. But shouldn't we be thankful more than just once a year? What about ditching the single "Turkey Day" mentality and embracing a whole lifetime of thanks?

What is Thanksliving?

Okay, okay, so "thanksliving" isn't exactly in the dictionary... yet. But it should be! We're talking about a non-stop attitude of gratitude – a daily (or even hourly!) count-your-blessings kinda vibe.

Thankfulness: A Choice, Not Just a Feeling

Being thankful is a conscious choice, not just a fleeting emotion. It's the beating heart of our faith! And guess what? When we cultivate a thankful heart, our lives get richer, brighter, and all-around more awesome.

Sing It Loud: Count Your Blessings!

Remember that old hymn? It nails it:

"When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed, And you are discouraged thinking all is lost. Count your many blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord has done..."

(You know the rest!) The point? Those benefits aren't just for Thanksgiving Day! They're for any day! Every day!

Thanksliving: A Way of Life

Hopefully, Thanksgiving is more than just a single day of stuffing our faces for us ChumCity folks. It's a lifestyle! It's what 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 is talking about: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Real Joy, Real Thanksgiving

When we give thanks, we're recognizing God's amazingness. We're acknowledging that our joy comes from Him, not from our circumstances. It's about focusing on what we have, not what we wish we had. And that's when real joy – and real thanksgiving – happens!

Count 'Em Up!

So, this Thanksgiving season (and beyond!), let's thank God for everything He provides and for the plans He has for us, even when we don't quite get them. As you count your blessings, get ready to be totally blown away by God's goodness and grace.

A Little History

Did you know the first Thanksgiving was a shindig with Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621? And that President Washington officially declared Thanksgiving Day back in 1789? Then Lincoln made it a national holiday in 1863.

Your Turn!

Now, it's our turn to enshrine thanksliving into our daily lives! Let's make every day a celebration of gratitude, ChumCity!

A Dark September and a Spark of Hope in '77

It's late September, 1777. The freshly independent Congress is huddled in York, Pennsylvania, a hundred miles from Philadelphia. Why? Because General Washington and his troops took some serious hits that month.

The British Take Philly!

After the Battle of Brandywine went south on September 11th, the British grabbed the capital, Philadelphia. Congress had to bail, landing them in York. Times were bleak, and a secret meeting was called: was there any hope left?

Surrender?

Let's be real, some members probably thought it was time to cut their losses and try for a peace deal with the British. Who could blame them? But one dude wasn't having it.

Enter Samuel Adams

While most folks today know him as a beer brand, Samuel Adams was a HUGE player back then. His crew, the Sons of Liberty, turned everyday complainers into freedom fighters. His powerful speeches and writings fueled the push for independence.

A Stirring Speech

That night in York, things looked grim. But Adams wasn't about to let the fire die. His words became a battle cry for everyone who believed in freedom.

Adams' Words

He declared, “Let us awaken then, and envice a different spirit; A spirit that shall inspire the people with confidence in themselves and in us; A spirit that will encourage them to preserve in this glorious struggle, until their rights and liberties shall be established on a rock. We have proclaimed to the world our determination ‘to die freemen, rather than to live slaves.’ We have appealed to Heaven for the justice of our cause, and in Heaven we have placed our trust.”

He continued, "Numerous have been the manifestations of God’s providence in sustaining us. In the gloomy period of adversity, we had ‘our cloud by day and pillar of fire by night.’ We have been reduced to distress, and the arm of Omnipotence has raised us up. Let us still rely in humble confidence on Him who is mighty to save. Good tidings will soon arrive. We shall never be abandoned by Heaven while we act worthy of its aid and protection."

Victory at Saratoga!

The patriots rallied, scoring a major win at Saratoga in late October, shifting the war's momentum.

First Thanksgiving!

On November 1st, riding high from Saratoga, Congress adopted a report penned by Samuel Adams himself. They declared Thursday, December 18th, a "day of Thanksgiving" to God. This marked the first Thanksgiving proclamation in American history!

Remember Who to Thank!

This Thanksgiving, remember who we owe our thanks to. The founders understood that success as a nation depended on Almighty God. Though times may be tough, appealing to God helps us overcome any obstacle.

Blessings and Gratitude

Remember to thank God for Thanksgiving's blessings: family and country. Thanks be to God that He has blessed our nation, and may He continue to bless us for generations to come.

The Iron Bowl: More Than Just a Game

Saturday marks the 90th showdown between Auburn and Alabama! Sure, the stakes might feel a little different this year, with Alabama eyeing the conference title and Auburn building for the future. But make no mistake, the passion will be hotter than ever!

This is my 54th year following this incredible rivalry, and I've been lucky enough to witness more than half these battles live, across Birmingham, Auburn, and Tuscaloosa.

Why "Iron Bowl?"

Ever wonder how it got that iconic name? Back in 1964, Auburn's legendary Coach Shug Jordan declared the Iron Bowl "Auburn’s bowl game," and the name stuck like glue. But why "Iron"?

First off, the game was famously played in Birmingham's Legion Field – the "Football Capital of the South" – until Auburn and then Alabama moved the home games to campus. Second, Birmingham is synonymous with iron!

Birmingham: The Magic City of Iron

After the Civil War, Birmingham exploded in growth thanks to the abundance of iron ore, coal, and limestone. This led to a booming iron and steel industry, earning Birmingham the nickname "the Pittsburgh of the South."

Did you know that all three major ductile iron pipe producers have a presence in Birmingham? That makes the area around the Iron Bowl site the Ductile Iron Pipe Capital of America!

The True Meaning of "Iron"

Ultimately, the Iron Bowl's name is perfect because it signifies a tough game. It's a battle fought by resilient, determined players who are giving it their all for their teams, universities, and the fans who bleed orange and blue or crimson and white.

Tough, hard-hitting, durable, resilient. These words describe not just the players on the field, but also the incredible performance of ductile iron pipe.

Sustainable Strength

And here's a cool fact: today's ductile iron pipe is made from recycled iron and steel! It requires less energy for water pumping, boasts a long and reliable lifespan, and is recyclable when its service is done.

Iron pipe is a win for the environment, public health, fire protection, and long-term water utility budgets. It was sustainable long before "sustainability" became a buzzword.

A Legacy of Safety

For over a century, iron pipe has proven its safety and effectiveness in public health. While other materials like lead and asbestos have come and gone, iron pipe continues to perform, decade after decade. Newer materials like plastic are still being tested and proven!

So, when you settle in to watch the game, you can impress everyone with your knowledge of the Iron Bowl's name and the amazing qualities of ductile iron pipe from Birmingham! Iron pipe: it’s what America is built on.

Remembering Red Deese: A Southern Legend

You might've spotted Red Deese on the Food Network, your local news, or even in the Montgomery Advertiser. Clarence Ray “Red” Deese, a true Alabama original, passed away peacefully at home with family earlier this month, November 10th, at the grand age of 93.

Red's Little Schoolhouse: A Dream Realized

Red's claim to fame? Founding a beloved Southern-style restaurant 40 years ago! Picture this: Red and his daughter Debbie, driving past an abandoned 1910 schoolhouse, overgrown and up for grabs. They snagged it from the Montgomery County school system for a cool $3,500.

Fueled by a shared vision, they transformed that old schoolhouse into Red's Little Schoolhouse, a down-home country café seemingly in the middle of nowhere, opening its doors on May 1, 1985.

More Than Just a Meal

Could they convince folks to drive out for some good ol' fashioned grandma-style cooking? You bet! Word spread like wildfire. It's not just the unique pre-Depression schoolhouse vibe; it's the mouthwatering fried chicken, crispy fried cornbread, garden-fresh veggies straight from Mr. Red's garden, and those unforgettable homemade pies.

A Legacy Lives On

Today, Debbie and her amazing team keep Red's legacy alive and kicking. Loyal customers still flock in Wednesday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, and keeping the kitchen open until 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays).

Debbie's Story

“It’s crazy to think that our little country cafe has been around four decades!" Debbie says, recounting the cafe's origins, including some initial reluctance from her dad. With some convincing ("Please, Daddy!") and a lot of hard work, the dream became a reality. "In less than a year, on May 1st, 1985, we opened the doors to Red’s Little Schoolhouse, named after Dad, Red Deese.”

Humble Beginnings, Lasting Impact

Red grew up on a farm in the hard times of the Depression. Hard work, resourcefulness, and gratitude were his cornerstones.

More Than Just a Restaurant

Beyond the restaurant, Red was a barber, a community builder, and a devoted family man. He helped launch South Montgomery County Academy (SMCA), and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

A Man to Remember

But Red's most profound legacy is the impact he had on his family. Devoted to his faith, he raised children who continue to make a difference in the world.

Red Deese's life was celebrated at Friendship Baptist Church in Grady, AL. He lived an abundant life, indeed.

Thanksgiving, Politics, and a Lesson from D.C.

Yep, picture this: the turkey's carved, the potatoes are passed, and BAM! The conversation veers straight into...politics. Sound familiar, ChumCity? It's like a Thanksgiving tradition, fueled by these crazy partisan times we're living in.

The Great Unfriending

We've all been there, right? Hiding someone on Facebook because their political rants are just too much. Or maybe even cutting ties completely with anyone who dares to disagree. But this hyper-partisanship didn't start at the dinner table; it's been brewing in Congress for ages.

Shutdown Showdown

Remember the government shutdown? A whopping 43 days of federal employees furloughed, services grinding to a halt, and even food assistance at risk. That's what happens when our elected officials refuse to talk to each other.

The Divide

The House passed a funding bill, but in the Senate, Democrats and Republicans were locked in a stalemate. Each side dug in their heels, seemingly content to let average Americans suffer.

Katie Britt to the Rescue!

Then, like a beacon of hope, came Senator Katie Britt. A staunch Republican and Trump supporter, she's also known for something rare in D.C.: the ability to build relationships with Democrats. Her friendship with Senator John Fetterman is legendary!

Britt saw an opportunity. She reached out to her Democratic colleagues, engaged in some serious senatorial diplomacy, and managed to secure enough votes to end the shutdown.

The Power of Talking

How did she do it? By doing what no one else was willing to do: talking. She found common ground, built trust, and got the job done without compromising her principles.

A Thanksgiving Challenge

So, this Thanksgiving, let's take a page from Katie Britt's book. Instead of arguing, let's try talking. Maybe, just maybe, we can find some common ground with our politically diverse families. And for that leadership, I'm thankful for Senator Katie Britt.

Happy Thanksgiving, ChumCity!

As we gear up for turkey and all the fixings, surrounded by friends and family, I'm reminded of a powerful moment in American history: President Abraham Lincoln's 1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation.

Thanksgiving During Wartime?

Yep, even smack-dab in the middle of the Civil War, when the country was more divided than ever, Lincoln called for a national day of thanksgiving, praise, and prayer. He knew a grateful nation was a strong nation and recognizing blessings can bring us together.

A Timeless Message

Here's a snippet from that proclamation:

“I do, therefore, invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States... to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens...with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife...and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation..."

Gratitude in a Fallen World

Let's face it, life ain't always easy. We still face division and struggles. But Thanksgiving is a chance to hit the reset button and focus on gratitude. It's a reminder that even when things feel broken, we have a God who is steadfast and good.

Look to the Lord

Just like Lincoln urged folks to pray back in '63, we can also turn to the Lord for healing and unity. Check out 1 Chronicles 16:34-36:

“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever...Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Then all the people said ‘Amen’ and ‘Praise the LORD.’”

Wishing You All the Best

From my family to yours, have a very Happy Thanksgiving, ChumCity!