New Face at the Federation!

Get ready to give a warm ChumCity welcome to Aspen Adams, the newest addition to the Alabama Farmers Federation accounting crew! Aspen officially joined the team on June 9th, and we're already stoked to have her.

Roots Run Deep

Growing up on an Angus farm in Union Springs, Aspen knows her way around agriculture. Federation CFO Phillip Johns is pumped about the knowledge she brings to the table.

A Perfect Fit

"We’re super excited to welcome Aspen to the Federation fam!" Johns exclaimed. "Her skills in tax work, bookkeeping, and payroll are gonna be a huge asset. Plus, she already knows the Federation, which is a major win!"

Brains and Boots

Aspen, a bright 22-year-old, earned her bachelor's in accounting and a master's in business administration from the University of Mobile. Talk about smart!

Numbers Nerd & Proud

"I love working with numbers!" Aspen shared. "I can't wait to team up with everyone, learn the ropes, and do my part to help our Federation members and staff!"

Family Farm Strong

Agriculture runs in Aspen's blood. Her dad, Rob Adams, is the vice president of the Bullock County Farmers Federation. It's a family affair!

A Proud Daughter

"I've always known about this company," she said. "Growing up showing cattle, I saw the positive impact Alfa has in local communities. I’m proud to be joining an organization that serves farmers. I know my dad is also proud to know that I am working in a good environment with a family oriented culture.”

Way to go, Aspen! We're thrilled to have you!

Montgomery Wins in Finley Lawsuit

The City of Montgomery scored a major victory this week! A federal court has dismissed all remaining claims filed by former Police Chief Ernest N. Finley, Jr., against the city and Mayor Steven L. Reed.

Court Sides with the City

The U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama sided with Montgomery and Mayor Reed, granting summary judgment. The court found absolutely no evidence to support Finley's allegations of racial discrimination, retaliation, or a sinister conspiracy.

Leadership Concerns Cited

U.S. District Judge Kristi K. DuBose pointed to documented concerns about Finley's leadership as the basis for the City's decisions. These concerns included a spike in violent crime and grumblings within the Montgomery Police Department itself. The court also noted that Finley was provided legal representation by the City and that the Ethics Commission review, which exonerated him, was unhindered.

Finley's Resignation Deemed Voluntary

The court determined that Finley willingly resigned back in 2021. They added that he failed to prove his departure, or any prior events, were fueled by racial prejudice or retaliation for any protected actions.

Mayor Reed's Response

Mayor Reed expressed his appreciation for the court's decision. "We appreciate the court’s thorough review and are grateful for a ruling that reaffirms the City’s commitment to fairness, accountability, and the rule of law," he said. "Our administration has always put public safety and integrity first, and we will continue working to ensure Montgomery is a safe, equitable city for all."

Public Safety a Priority

The City reiterated that keeping our streets safe is their #1 priority, along with strengthening the bonds of trust and confidence within our community.

Alabama's K9s Get Lifesaving Boost!

Hot off the press! Alabama's K9 officers just got a major win! Governor Kay Ivey signed the Lakyn Canine Act into law, meaning these furry heroes are now eligible for emergency medical services.

What's the Paw-some Deal?

This awesome new law, officially active since May, allows our EMTs to give injured K9 cops the care they desperately need, without worrying about getting into legal trouble. Think of it as a green light to treat our four-legged crime fighters!

From Dothan to the Rescue

State Rep. Rick Rehm (R-Dothan) championed this bill (also known as House Bill 366), ensuring that police dogs injured while on duty receive the same urgent medical attention as their human partners. Now, EMS can whisk them away in ambulances or helicopters to the nearest vet, no questions asked!

Why It Matters

Previously, legal red tape prevented EMS from helping injured K9s. But thanks to advocates like Rehm and Sheriff Eric Blankenship, that's all changed. First responders can now act fast and save lives!

K9s United and More

Law enforcement and groups like K9s United were huge supporters. They understand how vital these dogs are to our safety, from sniffing out danger to finding lost souls.

Joining the Pack

Alabama is following in the footsteps of states like Florida, which passed similar protections in 2021. It's a big step forward in recognizing the dedication and value of our K9 units. The law is already in effect across the state – high fives all around!

Alabama's Redistricting Rollercoaster Continues!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCityzens! Alabama is heading back to the Supreme Court, again, in its ongoing battle over congressional maps. This marks the third time the state's legal eagles are appealing a federal court ruling that shot down their 2023 map.

Why All the Fuss?

Basically, a three-judge panel declared Alabama's 2023 map illegal, arguing it weakened the voting power of Black residents. They said it didn't follow earlier court orders either! Remember when the courts stepped in previously and ordered a new map for the 2024 election?

What's at Stake This Time?

The appeal names bigwigs like Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen, and State Senate and House leaders. More than just the current map, it’s about whether the federal court should keep a watchful eye on Alabama's redistricting shenanigans after the 2030 Census.

NAACP Wants Oversight

The NAACP Legal Defense Fund wants future map changes pre-approved to avoid any funny business (read: discriminatory practices). Alabama is fighting tooth and nail against this continued supervision.

Legal Showdown Dates

Get ready for some legal fireworks! Alabama had to file their brief by June 16th. The other side had until June 23rd to respond. And if needed, a reply must be submitted by June 27th. If the court wants to hear more, a hearing is penciled in for July 29th.

Flashback: Court's Not Happy

Remember last year? Federal judges weren't thrilled with Alabama’s redistricting efforts during a special session. That's why a special master was brought in to draw the map we're using now, which is supposed to stay in place until the 2030 cycle. Stay tuned for more updates, ChumCity!

ChumCity Catch-Up: What's Buzzing?

Here's a quick rundown of the crazy things happening in the news...

Wadsworth's Campaign Implodes!

Dr. Nicole Wadsworth's bid for lieutenant governor is basically toast. Her entire staff jumped ship, citing a constant barrage of misinformation and downright silly accusations. Yikes!

Trump Guard Order Flips!

Remember when Trump sent the National Guard to L.A. during the riots? A judge said it was illegal and wanted Newsom back in charge. But hold up! An appeals court reversed that decision. The saga continues...

Sheriff Says Whoa!

Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch wants to make it crystal clear: he didn't tell anyone to run over protesters. Turns out, his words got twisted into something completely insane.

ICE Watch in Birmingham

The Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice just launched a hotline to keep tabs on ICE activity in Birmingham, following the lead of similar groups in other cities.

Senator Shoves Cops!

California Senator Alex Padilla is catching heat after allegedly trying to crash a DHS Secretary Kristi Noem press conference. Reports say he shoved police while yelling... something.

"No Kings" Rally Coming

Get ready, Alabama! Anti-Trump "No Kings" rallies are on the way in response to that military parade Trump's hosting. Senator Tuberville's advice? "Please do it peacefully."

Israel Strikes Iran?!

Israel launched military strikes on Iran amidst shaky nuclear program talks, drawing cheers from some Alabama officials. Big stuff happening overseas.

And that's your dose of Dale Jackson! You can find him thinking important thoughts at Yellowhammer News and hosting a show weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.

Quadruple the Miracle: Local Quads Celebrate Unbelievable First Birthday!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity! Get ready for a heartwarming story that'll make you believe in miracles. Remember those super-tiny quadruplets born right here at UAB Hospital? Well, Lainey, Kali, Lennon, and Koen Bryant just celebrated their first birthday, and it's a total celebration of life against all odds!

Born Against the Odds

These amazing little fighters entered the world way back on May 31, 2024, at a mind-boggling 23 weeks and 4 days gestation. That's super premature! Mom Becca Bryant was admitted to UAB for high-risk monitoring when things took a turn. An emergency C-section was needed, calling in a team of 30 specialists to bring these little miracles into the world.

A Moment They Weren't Sure They'd See

"When Lainey, Kali, Lennon, and Koen were born, they were 115 days premature," Becca shared. "A year later, we were surrounded by family and friends to celebrate their first birthday. It was a moment we were not sure we’d ever see.” Can you imagine?

One in Seven Million!

Turns out, Becca's pregnancy was incredibly rare - trichorionic quadra-amniotic. That's four babies in four sacs with three placentas. Doctors say it only happens about once in every 7 million pregnancies! Talk about a special delivery.

The Golden Week & Beyond

After they arrived, the babies were immediately whisked away to UAB's Level IV Regional Newborn Intensive Care Unit (RNICU) and put under the "Golden Week" program, designed to give the tiniest babies the best possible start. Each faced serious challenges, but they fought hard, receiving round-the-clock care for months.

Guinness World Record Breakers!

And get this - after discovering that the Bryant quads were the most premature to survive, they snagged a Guinness World Record previously set way back in 1997. Pretty awesome, right?

Still Growing Strong

Today, these little superheroes are still developing. Lainey and Koen use nasal cannulas, and Lennon uses a G tube. But they’re surrounded by love, monitored by amazing doctors at UAB's Newborn Follow-Up Clinic and Children’s of Alabama, and proving every day that miracles do happen. What an amazing story right here in ChumCity!

Crow Joins Race for House District 63!

Tuscaloosa City Councilman Norman Crow is officially throwing his hat in the ring for the Alabama House of Representatives District 63 seat! He's the first to formally announce his candidacy for the spot soon to be up for grabs.

What's He Bringing to the Table?

According to The Tuscaloosa News, Crow, currently representing District 3 on the City Council, is leaning heavily on his experience in business, education, and community leadership. He's promising accountability, service, and real results for the district, emphasizing his knack for creating jobs and managing finances.

A Tuscaloosa Guy Through and Through

Crow’s no stranger to Tuscaloosa. He started out in the energy industry with big names like Southern Natural Gas and Duke Energy. Later, he ran his own transportation company, DT Freight, and now he's a real estate agent with Hamner Real Estate. Talk about a diverse background!

Community Focused

He's also been heavily involved in the community, previously serving on the Tuscaloosa City Board of Education and leading organizations like the Boys & Girls Club of West Alabama and the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce.

Why District 63 Matters

House District 63, covering much of downtown Tuscaloosa and the University of Alabama, is a key spot for making sure the city's voice is heard loud and clear in Montgomery.

Who's Leaving and When?

State Rep. Cynthia Almond (R-Tuscaloosa) is stepping down from the District 63 seat after being tapped by Governor Ivey to head the Public Service Commission. Her resignation is expected on June 15th.

What's Next?

Keep your eyes peeled! The Governor will announce the date for a special election to fill the seat in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for updates!

Mr. Worldwide Heads to Tuscaloosa!

Get ready, ChumCity! Pitbull, the Grammy-winning sensation himself, is bringing the party to the Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater this summer!

Party After Dark Tour

Mark your calendars for August 28th because that's when Mr. 305 is set to ignite the stage as part of his Party After Dark Tour.

Snag Your Tickets!

Want to be part of the action? Tickets officially go on sale Friday, June 13th at 100 a.m. CST. But, keep your eyes peeled because a venue pre-sale kicks off the day before, also at 10 a.m.!

Amped Up Amphitheater

The Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater is heating up this season! Other incredible shows lined up in the coming months include Ringo Starr, Old Dominion, Southern Soul Explosion, Masters of the Mic, and ZZ Top. Looks like it's going to be a summer to remember!

Mobile Airport's New Landing Target: September 2026!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity! The new Mobile International Airport is still soaring towards completion, but the landing has been adjusted to September 2026. Originally slated for a spring debut, city and airport honchos have decided sticking to the budget is priority one!

Fly Closer to Home!

Remember, this big project kicked off in 2022, aiming to bring commercial flights closer to downtown Mobile. Say goodbye to long drives and hello to airport convenience!

Gates Galore & Parking Aplenty

Get ready for a shiny new terminal with an initial five gates, with room to grow to a whopping twelve as needed. And speaking of growth, a 1,250-space parking garage is also in the works, set to be ready by March 2026.

Sky-High Hopes!

This isn't just any airport, folks. It's designed to meet international standards, promising lower fares, more direct flights, a tourism boost, and a whole lot of economic development for our region. Expect commercial flights to take off around October or November of that year. Get ready to fly!