LSU Roars Back to Championship Series!

The LSU Tigers are playing like baseball royalty, and they've earned a shot at their eighth national title in spectacular fashion! After an initial victory against the Arkansas Razorbacks in Omaha, they faced their SEC rivals once more, with Arkansas fighting their way back from the brink.

Arkansas needed a double-dip to advance, but LSU only needed a single win. And what a win it was!

Epic Ninth-Inning Comeback!

LSU pulled off a jaw-dropping comeback in the first game. Down to their last out, trailing 5-3 with runners on first and second, a dropped fly ball in left field allowed both runners to score, tying the game!

🤯🤯🤯 (You had to be there!)

Then, BANG! Another hit brought in the winning run, catapulting LSU into the championship series!

Chanticleers on a Roll!

Meanwhile, Coastal Carolina is hungry for their second national title (their first since '16!), tearing through the competition these past few months.

They dominated their regional, swept the super regional in Auburn, and remained undefeated in Omaha, riding a scorching 26-game win streak. Now, they face the monumental task of taking down LSU, hoping to cap off the year with an astonishing 28 straight wins!

Championship Showdown!

The best-of-three series kicks off Saturday night. Get ready for some serious baseball!

Longshore & McKnight: Golf, Hoops, and Recruiting Bombshells!

Barry McKnight steered the ship solo today, welcoming Colin McCrary to give ChumCity an exclusive peek behind the curtain of TV golf production!

Inside the Green: TV Magic

McCrary spilled the beans on his time as a volunteer spotter at the U.S. Open (Oakmont!), painting a picture of a high-stakes, ultra-precise gig juggling player movements, announcer cues, and camera angles. "You’re listening to 30 conversations at once,” he revealed! He even weighed in on Rory McIlroy's mental game, calling it top-tier but occasionally shaky under pressure. Whoa!

From Fairway to Final Four: College World Series Chaos

The guys shifted gears to Coastal Carolina's CWS rampage after demolishing Louisville. Plus, they recapped LSU's nail-biting comeback against Arkansas – talk about late-game drama!

NBA Finals Face-Off

They previewed Game 6 of the NBA Finals, with Oklahoma City aiming to shut the door on Indiana. Keep an eye on Tyrese Haliburton – he's listed as questionable!

Scheffler's Secret Sauce & Recruiting Rumors

Barry couldn't help but shout out Scottie Scheffler’s rock-solid consistency and mental fortitude, labeling his rise a "mystery" fueled by laser focus. Then, Rodney Orr dropped a recruiting nuke: Alabama flipped four-star quarterback Jett Tamala from Iowa State and is now hunting Texas wide receiver Booby Feaster, who Orr called "one of the top receivers in the country!" Boom!

Bruce Pearl's Legacy at Auburn

Auburn basketball wasn't exactly a powerhouse before Bruce Pearl arrived in 2014, but boy, has he changed that! He's turned the program into a top destination for college hoops talent.

Dominating the SEC

Under Pearl, the Tigers have roared to two Final Four appearances, snagged three SEC regular season titles, and claimed two SEC Tournament championships. Not too shabby!

Passing the Torch?

While Pearl is still riding high from what might be his best Auburn season yet, the 65-year-old knows the clock is ticking. But don't worry, Auburn fans! It sounds like his son, assistant coach Steven Pearl, is prepped to take the reins when the time comes.

Pearl on Steven's Readiness

"He’s ready," Pearl recently told Andy Katz. While he didn't explicitly say Steven would take over at Auburn, he made it clear his son is ready to lead a program.

A New Coaching Strategy

Pearl elaborates, "Steven’s my defensive coordinator and Mike Burgomaster is my offensive coordinator. I’m getting a little bit older… I’ve got great coordinators helping me coach my team. It’s a new concept and I think it’s something other coaches should look at." Sounds like the game is evolving, and Pearl's leading the way!

Political Aspirations?

Rumors have been swirling about Pearl potentially diving into the political arena. With Senator Tommy Tuberville possibly running for governor in 2026, could we see Pearl – an outspoken advocate for Israel – throw his hat in the ring? Stay tuned!

Homewood's Own JJ Thomas Sets Sights on City Council!

Get ready, ChumCity! Longtime Homewood business owner and community champion JJ Thomas has announced he's throwing his hat in the ring for City Council in Ward 2.

A Vision for Homewood's Next Century

With Homewood gearing up to celebrate its centennial, Thomas believes it's the perfect time to not just look back, but to map out an awesome future. "Next year is the big 1-0-0 for Homewood! It's a chance to celebrate AND ask ourselves: What kind of city do we want to be for the next century?" he exclaimed. He sees the potential, the opportunities, but also acknowledges the challenges that come with growth—like aging infrastructure and the need for experienced leadership under the new government structure.

From Boardroom to Brewpub: A Leader with Diverse Experience

This isn't just talk, folks. Thomas brings serious chops to the table. He founded and led Class Action Capital, a huge firm that served thousands of clients. But he's also a familiar face around town, co-owning Slice Pizza & Brew and developing The Edge, that cool dining and entertainment spot. Plus, he's even taught finance at the University of Alabama!

Deep Roots in the Community

Beyond his business success, Thomas is all about giving back. He's currently on the boards of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, the Homewood Athletic Foundation, and Homewood Helps. He's also a supporter of the Homewood Police and Fire Department Foundations, and the Homewood Soccer Club. Talk about dedication!

Putting Homewood Families First

"I've built companies and led teams, but what truly matters is listening, leading with integrity, and putting families first," Thomas shared. "This isn't about me; it's about you and your family—safe streets, great schools, and a city government you can rely on."

A Plan for a Brighter Future

If elected, Thomas plans to leverage his financial and business expertise to make Homewood even better. His priorities include smart financial management, boosting public safety, tackling infrastructure challenges, improving city communications, and guiding development in a way that preserves Homewood's unique neighborhood vibe.

Preventing Problems, Protecting What We Love

"We don't just need leaders who can react to problems; we need leaders who can help prevent them," he emphasized. "I'm dedicated to protecting what makes Homewood special while helping us grow wisely and sustainably."

Get Involved!

Want to support JJ Thomas? Join "Neighbors for JJ" to stay in the loop, request yard signs, volunteer, and get updates leading up to the election on August 26, 2025.

Fairhope Library in Book Battle with the State!

Hold on to your library cards, ChumCity citizens! The Fairhope Public Library is locked in a standoff with state officials over some controversial books in the teen section. Basically, the state's holding back funding because they think some books are too spicy for young readers.

What's the Big Deal?

The Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) has frozen around $42,000 in funds for Fairhope Library. They say certain teen books contain "sexually explicit" material and need to be moved to the adult section to get that money back.

Defining "Explicit" Gets Tricky

The heart of the matter? Disagreement over what "sexually explicit" actually means. The APLS seems to think books with any mention of certain topics are off-limits for teens. Fairhope Library, however, is taking a more nuanced, legal view, focusing on whether the intent of the content is sexually arousing.

Fairhope Library Stands Its Ground (Mostly)

After checking out 15 books in question, the Fairhope board decided to move five, but kept nine others (including "Doing It" by Hannah Witton!) in the teen zone. One book remains in limbo. That means 10 books remain accessible to teens.

No Loopholes, Says the State

The library board's decisions are final for five years, so these titles can't be challenged again until 2030. But APLS is sticking to its guns: no funding until all books deemed explicit are moved. According to them, there's zero wiggle room.

It's Not About Banning Books, Apparently

State officials are quick to point out that they're not banning anything, just wanting books in the right sections. They also claim most libraries in Alabama are already following their rules.

More Than Just Money at Stake?

While the funding isn't a huge chunk of Fairhope's overall budget, library board members are worried about losing access to important regional resources, like a book delivery system.

What's Next?

The APLS board is set to review Fairhope's decision soon. Stay tuned, ChumCity, this book battle is far from over!

Alabama Unions Unite for Worker Power!

The Alabama State Building and Construction Trades Council (ASBCTC) and the Association of Skilled Trade and Transportation Unions (ASTTU) are teaming up to champion union workers in Alabama's booming construction scene!

A Powerful Partnership

Launched on June 18th, this alliance combines the forces of two major labor organizations, both dedicated to union pride, fierce advocacy, and giving power to the people. The goal? To ramp up protections, benefits, and support for union members across the state.

Strength in Numbers

"This is all about unions locking arms and showing what we can do together," says Carl Galdine, Membership & Benefits Director at ASTTU. "ASTTU is here to back unions and shield members. This partnership is a golden opportunity to do just that, helping Alabama's skilled trades workers get their hands on vital benefits, strong advocacy, and top-notch national support!"

Beefing Up Benefits

ASTTU will be offering voluntary benefits to sweeten union wages and provide extra protection, like disability income coverage, help with medical expenses, and guaranteed life insurance. And the best part? It won't cost ASBCTC unions a dime or add any extra paperwork.

More Than Just Benefits

ASSTU and ASBCTC are also planning joint workforce training and initiatives to defend labor standards and amplify the voice of unions. ASTTU's national network for safety, worker education, and advocacy will give Alabama unions even more resources to work with.

Standing Strong in a Right-to-Work State

In Alabama, a right-to-work state, this partnership is a big deal! It’s not always easy to grow unions and get members engaged, but by working together, these organizations plan to boost union participation and expand organized labor's influence throughout the state.

Committed to the Cause

"Our Council is all about creating job opportunities, pushing for living wages, and protecting the benefits that our members and all construction workers count on,” says Bill Blackman, President of the Alabama State Building and Construction Trades Council. "This alliance with ASTTU supercharges that mission, making valuable benefits more accessible and securing the financial well-being of Alabama's skilled trades pros."

A National Movement

This collaboration is part of a growing trend: unions from all different sectors joining forces. ASTTU is committed to building partnerships that empower union families and fortify the labor movement as we tackle new challenges.

Trump Takes Charge of California National Guard

President Trump's now calling the shots for the California National Guard when it comes to those ICE protests! He overruled Governor Newsom and some pesky court rulings. Who's in charge now? Trump, baby!

Lawsuit Alert: Online Casino Accused of Deceptive Practices

A Franklin County fella's fired up! He's suing an online sweepstakes casino, claiming they tricked him into losing serious cash. Was it rigged? Stay tuned!

Huntsville Pride Parade and Drag Show Spark Controversy

Huntsville's gearing up for a gay pride parade followed by a "family friendly" drag celebration. Some folks are NOT happy about this, saying kids shouldn't be around this kinda thing. What do you think?

Alabama Family Rages, But ICE Case Story Isn't What it Seems

An Alabama family's claiming ICE is tearing them apart after mom got detained after a traffic stop. Hold your horses! Turns out, she was told to leave years ago and ignored the order. Headlines can be deceiving, folks.

Border Czar Promises Targeted Immigration Raids

Border Czar Tom Homan's talking immigration raids at farms and hotels, but don't panic (yet)! He says they'll be "prioritized" and "criminals come first." We'll see how that plays out.

Senator Britt Demands Accountability

U.S. Senator Katie Britt is calling out the Dems for allegedly covering up Joe Biden's mental decline and that infamous autopen. Cover-up or political theater? You decide!

Trump Weighs Diplomacy with Iran

President Trump is hinting at diplomacy with Iran, but he's gonna wait two weeks before jumping in on Israel's strikes. He's keeping an eye on Iran's nuclear situation. Nuclear threat or just saber-rattling?

Your Daily Dose of Dale

Get your daily dose of truth with Dale Jackson, the thought leader from Yellowhammer News! Tune in to his talk show weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.

Amy Minton Joins the Alabama Senate District 10 Race!

Rainbow City's Amy Dozier Minton is throwing her hat in the ring for Alabama Senate District 10, promising a campaign built on solid conservative principles, boosted infrastructure, strong education, and unwavering veteran support! She's set to challenge incumbent Senator Andrew Jones in the 2026 Republican primary.

A long-time Etowah County resident, Minton brings a wealth of experience from healthcare and education, plus a hefty dose of Republican Party leadership. Amy and her husband, Dr. Maury Minton, have called Rainbow City home for decades, raising their two children right here.

From Pharmaceuticals to Public Service

Minton earned her master’s while working at UAB and later thrived in pharmaceutical sales with Bristol-Myers Squibb. She took a break to support her family and volunteer at Eura Brown Elementary, where she discovered a passion for helping children learn to read.

"That time was incredibly rewarding, and I believe it played a huge role in our daughter and son's success," Minton shared, proudly noting their accomplishments.

Deeply Involved in the Community

Currently, Minton serves as Vice Chair of the Etowah County Republican Party and represents Congressional Seat 7 on the Alabama State Executive Republican Committee. She also sits on the Etowah County Library Board and was appointed to the Alabama Public Library Services (APLS) Board by Governor Kay Ivey.

Minton's Top 10 Legislative Priorities:

Her campaign is laser-focused on these ten key areas:

• Championing small businesses, farmers, and citizens against overregulation and government overreach.
• Partnering with local leaders to fund critical infrastructure repairs, including that much-needed Southside Bridge!
• Empowering parents, teachers, and schools, with a real focus on improving reading scores.
• Protecting Alabama land from foreign adversaries.
• Opposing gambling expansion in our state.
• Defending our Second Amendment rights!
• Supporting our military families and veterans with the benefits and mental health services they deserve.
• Backing churches and faith-based addiction recovery groups.
• Promoting vocational education and expanding trade skill programs at Gadsden State Community College.
• Standing against gender ideology and protecting our children.

Minton emphasizes that her values are rooted in her Christian faith and her family's rich history of military service, small business ownership, and agricultural work.

"Freedom isn't free, and we must remember the sacrifices made to protect it."

Marshall County Mourns Chairman David Reed

Just days after taking office, Marshall County Commission Chairman David Reed has sadly passed away. This news has hit our community hard.

A Life of Service

Before joining the commission, Reed dedicated many years to the Guntersville Board of Education, serving as its chairman for a long time. County Attorney Clint Maze shared that Governor Kay Ivey appointed Reed on June 9, 2025, to fill the vacancy left by Chairman James Hutcheson's passing in May.

Community in Shock

"Marshall County is heartbroken to announce Chairman Reed's passing," Maze stated. He asked for prayers for Reed's family during this incredibly difficult time. Congressman Robert Aderholt also expressed his condolences.

What's Next?

The county commission hasn't yet named an interim chair, but officials are expected to address the vacancy at their upcoming meeting next week. Sadly, Reed is the fourth consecutive chairman to pass away while in office. His church, Guntersville Church of Christ, reported that he suffered a fatal fall at home. More information will be shared after the family finalizes funeral arrangements.

Get Ready to Rock, ChumCity! Coca-Cola Amphitheater is HERE!

Birmingham's Druid Hills just got a whole lot louder (in a good way!). After what feels like forever, the Coca-Cola Amphitheater is throwing open its gates THIS SUNDAY! Get ready for a non-stop party of concerts, comedy, and all-around good times.

What's the Haps?

This $46 million beauty, rising from the ashes of the old Carraway Hospital as part of the Star Uptown project, boasts a whopping 9,380-person capacity. We're talking HUGE names hitting our stage! Kicking things off is the hilarious Matt Rife, followed by legends like Dave Matthews Band, Def Leppard, and the one and only Rod Stewart. Seriously, folks, this is going to be EPIC.

Big Deal, Who's Behind It?

This awesome venue is a joint effort between the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC), the City of Birmingham, Jefferson County, and the concert kings at Live Nation. They're expecting over 220,000 visitors a year!

What About the Neighbors?

Druid Hills residents are reportedly digging the development, especially how the planners listened to concerns about parking, safety, and noise. Shuttle service from Uptown? Check. Future parking decks? Check. Free trolley from local hotels and restaurants? TRIPLE CHECK!

From Trauma Center to Rock 'n' Roll Heaven

Jay Wilson from Live Nation said it best: transforming the old Carraway Hospital is symbolic. "It used to be the state’s No. 1 trauma center," he said. "Now it’s going to be the state’s No. 1 place to rock and roll!" We couldn't agree more!

2025 Lineup Sneak Peek:

June

• June 22 – Matt Rife: Stay Golden Tour – 7:30 p.m.
• June 24 – Dave Matthews Band – 7:30 p.m.
• June 25 – Def Leppard – 80 p.m.
• June 27 – Thomas Rhett: Better In Boots Tour – 7:30 p.m.
• June 28 – Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit – 70 p.m.

July

• July 9 – Big Time Rush: In Real Life Worldwide – 70 p.m.
• July 18 – Whiskey Myers: What We Were Born To Do Tour – 6:30 p.m.
• July 19 – Luke Bryan: Country Songs Came On Tour – 70 p.m.
• July 21 – Toto + Christopher Cross + Men at Work – 6:45 p.m.
• July 25 – Parker McCollum Tour – 7:30 p.m.
• July 26 – Alabama Shakes – 7:30 p.m.

August

• Aug. 2 – Rod Stewart: One Last Time – 7:30 p.m.
• Aug. 9 – Riley Green: Damn Country Music Tour – 70 p.m.
• Aug. 15 – Teddy Swims: I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy Tour – 80 p.m.
• Aug. 22 – Dierks Bentley: Broken Branches Tour – 70 p.m.
• Aug. 23 – Ben Rector: Richest Man in the World Tour – 7:30 p.m.

September

• Sept. 6 – Jessie Murph: Worldwide Hysteria Tour – 80 p.m.
• Sept. 8 – Pantera – 70 p.m.
• Sept. 10 – James Taylor – 7:30 p.m.
• Sept. 12 – Hardy: Jim Bob World Tour – 6:30 p.m.
• Sept. 17 – Leon Bridges w/ Charley Crockett: The Crooner and The Cowboy – 7:30 p.m.
• Sept. 18 – Nelly w/ Ja Rule: Where The Party At Tour – 80 p.m.
• Sept. 26 – Jason Aldean: Full Throttle Tour – 7:30 p.m.

October

• Oct. 10 – Uncle Charlie’s R&B Cookout – 7:15 p.m.
• Oct. 17 – Twenty One Pilots – 80 p.m.
• Oct. 19 – T-Pain w/ Earthgang: TP20 Tour – 7:30 p.m.
• Oct. 26 – Pierce The Veil: I Can’t Hear You Tour – 6:30 p.m.

Let's get this party started, Birmingham!