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Hurricane Season is Here: Is Your Southeast Business Ready?

Hey ChumCity entrepreneurs, homeowners, and renters! Hurricane season is upon us, stretching all the way to November. At the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), we're not wondering if a storm will hit, but when. NOAA is predicting a wild ride – potentially 19 named storms, with up to nine turning into hurricanes, and possibly four major ones (Category 3+).

Hurricanes and floods can be brutal, especially for small businesses facing power outages, supply chain nightmares, or even total loss. As the SBA Regional Administrator, my message is simple: Prepare now. The SBA’s got your back with resources for before, during, and after the storm.

What’s the SBA All About?

We're all about helping small businesses thrive! Since '53, we've offered loans, grants, and rock-solid support. Our Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience (ODR&R) is our dedicated disaster squad. Why? Because we know storms don't just wreck buildings – they crush dreams. Our team works year-round, helping businesses and homeowners recover with low-interest loans and connections to local heroes. Right now, we’re active in nearly 30 disaster zones, managing over 200 Economic Injury Disaster Loan declarations. We're ready to roll when you need us most.

SBA Disaster Assistance: Your Options

The SBA offers low-interest loans to fill the gaps when insurance doesn’t cover everything. It's a lifeline to rebuild, keep your business humming, or replace lost stuff. Here's the deal:

Physical Damage Loans:

Fixing property damaged by a disaster (no interest/payments for the first 12 months!)

• Businesses & Nonprofits: Up to $2 million for repairs/replacement of buildings, equipment, etc.
• Homeowners: Up to $500,000 to fix your primary home.
• Renters & Homeowners: Up to $100,000 for personal items.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL):

For businesses and nonprofits struggling with cash flow post-disaster (again, no interest/payments for the first year!)

• Loan Amount: Up to $2 million to cover operating expenses impacted by the disaster.

Mitigation Assistance:

Want to storm-proof your property? Add up to 20% of your physical damage loan to fund projects like storm windows or elevating your building.

Paperwork to Gather

To smooth the SBA loan process, grab these documents before disaster strikes:

• Financial Records: Tax returns (business/personal), profit and loss statements, balance sheets.
• Insurance Information: Policy details and any payouts you've received.
• Proof of Damage: Photos, estimates, contractor quotes.
• Business Documents: License, articles of incorporation.
• Personal ID: Driver's license or other government ID.

Keep digital copies in a secure cloud or waterproof container!

Be Prepared, Stay Strong

The more you prep now, the faster you'll recover! Every business should have an emergency plan. When disaster hits, your local SBA team will be there, working with our partners to help you rebuild and come back stronger than ever. We know the recovery road can feel tough, but we're here to guide you every step.

Let's get ready together – because when the storm comes, we’ll be there!

Tyler Teresa is the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Southeast Regional Administrator.

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Tide's Draft Day Surprise

Well, ChumCity, last week's NBA Draft was a bit of a head-scratcher for Bama hoops fans! Despite some buzz, no Crimson Tide players heard their names called.

Two-Way Dreams

But don't fret! All four potential draftees snagged two-way contracts with NBA teams. G League grind, here they come! They'll be battling for those coveted full roster spots.

Sears to Milwaukee!

Mark Sears, the legendary guard, landed a two-way deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. A slight shocker he wasn't drafted, but he's definitely got the skills to prove 'em wrong.

More Tide Talent

Grant Nelson, the sharpshooting big man, is heading to the Brooklyn Nets, joining fellow Bama baller Noah Clowney. Talk about a reunion! Clifford Omoruyi, our one-year center, is off to the Toronto Raptors. Chris Youngblood, another transfer portal gem, is joining the Oklahoma City Thunder, the reigning NBA champs!

Summer League Showdown

These four guys have a golden opportunity to show the NBA why they deserve to be there. Summer League is their stage to shine!

Roll Tide, NBA Bound!

Tide Hoops faithful, get ready to tune in this summer! We've got four guys fighting tooth and nail to secure their place on those NBA rosters. It's gonna be a wild ride!

Freeze on Thin Ice? Auburn's Recruiting Woes

Hugh Freeze is entering his third year at Auburn, and let's be honest, the first two haven't exactly set the world on fire. While wins have been scarce, Freeze has leaned on strong recruiting to show he's building something special on The Plains. But that vision only lasts so long.

Recruiting Troubles Mount

Recently, Auburn's recruiting has hit a snag. Four-star wide receiver Denairius Gray's flip to Kentucky is just the latest blow. The Tigers' 2026 class is now struggling, sitting outside the top-50 in recruiting rankings.

2025: A Must-Win Season

To salvage the class and lure future talent, Freeze needs a successful 2025 season. The "future potential" pitch is losing its appeal. It's time for on-field results.

The Good News: Talent is Here

The good news? Freeze arguably has his best team yet. A killer pass rush, a stacked receiving corps, and a quarterback with serious potential – this roster is loaded.

The Stakes Are High

But here's the deal: if this talented roster doesn't deliver, the recruiting pipeline could dry up, leading to future recruiting disasters.

Win Now, or Else

The message heading into the fall is crystal clear: Freeze needs to win, and win big, now. The future of Auburn football may depend on it.

DCH and UA Join Forces for Compassionate Care!

Get ready, ChumCity! DCH Health System and the University of Alabama are teaming up to bring you Supportive Care – a game-changing approach that focuses on making life better for folks battling serious illnesses, starting with cancer.

What's Supportive Care All About?

Think personalized support, extra compassion, and a real focus on improving quality of life. Housed at the Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center, this program is all about helping patients live longer, more comfortably, and with dignity. We're talking pain management, emotional support, and spiritual guidance to help navigate tough times!

Training the Next Generation of Caregivers

The initial launch will give 350 senior nursing students hands-on experience in palliative care. The Supportive Care Clinic will work right alongside the existing oncology clinic, providing extra support for patients, their families, and caregivers.

A Blueprint for the Future of Care

Dr. Kristi Acker says this partnership is a "strategic blueprint" for growing the nursing workforce in oncology and beyond! And guess what? Researchers will be keeping a close eye on the outcomes, with the goal of eventually expanding Supportive Care to ALL patients, not just those with cancer. How awesome is that?

DeSoto State Park Makes a Splash with New Pool House!

Get ready to cannonball into fun! Alabama's State Parks are getting a serious upgrade, and DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne just unveiled its brand-new pool house. This is just one piece of a massive $220 million project sprucing up all 21 of Alabama’s state parks!

A Refreshing Addition

State and local bigwigs gathered on July 2nd to snip the ribbon on the sparkling new DeSoto facility. Think snazzy new changing rooms, a dedicated lifeguard station, and accessible walkways that meet ADA standards – making the whole pool area way easier to navigate.

Parks Boss Speaks!

"Our State Parks were showing their age, especially the pool house at DeSoto," said ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship. "We want top-notch amenities for everyone, and this new building totally nails it!"

Money, Money, Money!

Where's the dough coming from? An $85 million bond approved by voters in 2022, combined with park revenue, Deepwater Horizon settlement funds, and the American Rescue Plan Act, are fueling these awesome improvements.

What's Next for Alabama Parks?

DeSoto isn't the only park getting love. A new lodge is rising at Cheaha State Park, Lake Lurleen State Park is undergoing a total glow-up, and the campground at Gulf State Park is expanding its award-winning awesomeness. Plus, tons of water and wastewater projects are in the works!

Leaders Love Parks

Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter and State Senate Majority Leader Steve Livingston stressed the importance of investing in our public playgrounds. "DeSoto State Park draws tons of tourists," Ledbetter said. "This new pool house boosts everyone's experience!" Livingston added, "Our parks are a treasure, and these upgrades make them better than ever!"

More Than Just DeSoto!

Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps reminds us that other state parks have stellar swimming spots, like beaches at Gulf, Oak Mountain, Cheaha, and Lake Guntersville, plus pools at Blue Springs, Lake Guntersville, and Rickwood Caverns!

July 4th Fun!

Don't forget to check out the July 4th events happening across the state! From DeSoto's annual celebration to "Fire on the Water" at Oak Mountain, there's something for everyone.

Get Out There and Explore!

"Hit up our beaches, pools, or campgrounds," urges Capps. "We've got activities for the whole family, so come explore our beautiful parks!" Alabama's State Parks offer everything from day trips to full-blown vacations, so get planning!

Surf's Up, Turf's Ready: Who Serves Bama's Best?

Get ready, ChumCity foodies! The quest for Alabama's BEST Surf & Turf is ON, thanks to Sweet Grown Alabama! From July 7th to 21st, YOU get to nominate your top pick on the Sweet Grown Alabama Facebook page.

What Makes a Winning Combo?

We're talking mouthwatering masterpieces that perfectly pair the bounty of the sea with delicious land-based proteins. Think classic shrimp and steak, or even wilder creations – the sky's the limit!

Why Surf & Turf?

According to Ellie Watson, Director of Sweet Grown Alabama, this contest celebrates Alabama's unique ability to produce amazing seafood AND top-notch protein, thanks to our hardworking farmers. Plus, Alabama's chefs, from fancy restaurants to down-home diners, bring serious talent to the table. Get ready to show some love to your favorite spot!

How to Nominate:

1. Head to Sweet Grown Alabama's Facebook page starting July 7th and find the "Bama's Best Surf & Turf" post.
2. Leave a comment! Tell them the restaurant's name, town, and the name of the legendary dish.

The Road to Surf & Turf Glory

The restaurants with the most nominations will battle it out in the "Edible Eight"! Then, bracket-style voting (also on Sweet Grown Alabama's Facebook page from July 28-31) will narrow it down to the "Flavorful Four."

The Final Taste Test

In August, a panel of judges will visit the "Flavorful Four" to taste-test their surf & turf creations and decide who reigns supreme.

The Prize?

Bragging rights, a cash prize, a plaque, and even features on "Simply Southern TV" and in Neighbors magazine!

A Shout-Out to Sweet Grown Alabama

This contest is sponsored by Sweet Grown Alabama, supporting our state's farmers and fishermen. They're a non-profit helping local farmers connect with stores and customers, making it easier than ever to enjoy Alabama-grown goodness.

Rainbow Omega: A Hidden Gem in Eastaboga!

"Rainbow Omega is like a well-kept secret," says CEO Tim Hodge. And it's true! Tucked away on 320 beautiful acres just off the interstate, this faith-based non-profit has been making a difference in the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since way back in 1995.

More Than Just a Home

Rainbow Omega provides live-in vocational training that’s all about building confidence and teaching real-world job skills. Residents not only earn a paycheck but also gain valuable life skills, prepping them for a brighter future. Right now, there are 82 awesome residents calling Rainbow Omega home.

From Farmers Market to Greenhouses

It all started with the Eastaboga Farmers Market, where residents sold donated fruits and veggies, learning the ropes of customer service and business. But Rainbow Omega didn't stop there! With a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, they built greenhouses and started growing poinsettias. Residents get hands-on experience in every step of the growing process, from planting to selling!

Growing Strong with Community Support

The success of the poinsettias paved the way for even bigger things, like the fern and mum program. Another USDA grant, plus a generous donation from Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation, allowed them to build four more greenhouses! Jeff Helms from the Alabama Farmers Federation says the partnership is a natural fit, with the agricultural community eager to support Rainbow Omega.

A Garden Center and a Berry Special Patch!

In 2019, grant funding and another Alfa donation helped create a garden center and gift shop, providing even more opportunities for residents to learn and earn. And then there are the blueberries! What started as a small idea – planting 15-20 bushes – turned into "Blueberry Hill" after a board member generously donated 400 bushes!

"Berry Picking Day" is a Hit!

Even after a tough winter in 2023, Rainbow Omega's blueberry patch thrived. That led to "Berry Picking Day," an annual event that's a total blast! Folks can pick their own Sweet Grown Alabama berries, shop with local vendors, and support the amazing work of Rainbow Omega.

Gadsden State PD Celebrates Two Years of Service!

Big news, ChumCity! Gadsden State Community College and Chief Jay Freeman are toasting to TWO YEARS of progress and purpose with the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department! They're making major waves across the college's five campuses and the three counties they serve.

From Zero to Hero!

Before Chief Freeman showed up, Gadsden State didn't have any sworn law enforcement officers. Now? They've got a blended force of sworn police, public safety peeps, and support staff, all working together to protect, serve, and build bridges. It's a real success story built on leadership, training, and a dedication to awesome customer service.

Community-Focused Policing at its Finest!

Chief Freeman's leading the charge to make the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department a model for community-focused policing.

"No one campus is the same—just like the communities we serve,” says Chief Freeman. “Every area deserves tailored relationships, and that begins with listening first, being respectful, and offering excellent customer service."

What They've Been Up To!

In just two years, this department has been BUSY! They've:

• Launched the FIRST EVER Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) to support students in need.
• Established a Chaplain Program for spiritual and emotional care.
• Appointed a mental health officer to help with crisis intervention and connect people with resources.
• Expanded training and outreach, including:
  • A free Women’s Self-Defense program
  • A Basic Civilian Firearm Safety Course
  • The Golden Rule/Bully Prevention Program in local schools
• Formed apprenticeship partnerships for hands-on experience in public safety.
• Added more sworn officers to meet growing needs.
• Invested in essential equipment.

It's All About the People!

"Our team isn’t just trained—they’re committed,” says Freeman. "We’ve built on that foundation to develop one of the most well-rounded, service-driven departments in the state.”

Customer Service is Key!

This department emphasizes treating everyone with dignity and respect, listening to concerns, and leading with clarity, compassion, and communication.

"We’ve got an amazing team at Gadsden State,” says Freeman. "The most rewarding part of this journey has been building relationships with our students!"

Looking Ahead!

The focus remains on continuous improvement, expanding community partnerships, and providing exceptional safety and support.

"We’ve been blessed to build this department from the ground up,” says Freeman. "But this is just the beginning. When we lead with respect and focus on customer service, we build something lasting. That’s how we move forward—together!"

Interim President Alan Smith says, "Their presence has enhanced the sense of security, strengthened community trust, and built meaningful relationships with our students, faculty, and neighbors." Way to go, Gadsden State PD!