Chef Rob's New Wave: Bayonet Bites into Birmingham!

Remember Chef Rob McDaniel? The guy who turned SpringHouse and Helen into culinary hotspots, racking up James Beard nods along the way? Well, hold on to your hats, ChumCity, because he and his wife Emily have just upped the ante!

Hello Bayonet, Goodbye Landlocked Cuisine!

Right next door to Helen in Birmingham sits Bayonet, McDaniel's brand new seafood and raw bar. And folks, it's a game-changer. Chef McDaniel says they created Bayonet to celebrate all things ocean, and they've committed hard. Don't expect any rogue steaks here – it's pure, unadulterated seafood bliss.

Tuna Burgers and Tasty Transformations

Forget the beef. Bayonet serves up a tuna burger so good, you won't even miss it. "You feel like you're eating a big, nice, juicy burger,” says McDaniel. “It’s delicious.” This ain't your typical seafood joint!

Casting a Wider Net: Gulf to Globe

Bayonet's not just about the Gulf Coast (though they love it!). McDaniel's casting a wider net, bringing in treasures from fisheries around the world.

Oyster Obsession: From Alabama to the Atlantic

Oysters are the stars at Bayonet, with 15-20 varieties shucked fresh daily. From Alabama to Washington state, you can slurp your way across the country. Know someone with a bad oyster experience? Bayonet might just change their mind! Their carefully sourced, farm-raised oysters are monitored to the max.

Beyond Backyard Boils: Elevating the Oyster Experience

Forget the usual cracker-hot sauce combo (though they've got that too, if you insist!). Bayonet serves oysters with lemon, horseradish, house-made hot sauce, and mignonette. The goal? To let those briny babies shine!

Coastal Chic Vibes: Not Your Grandma's Seafood Shack

Bayonet's got a coastal chic vibe, but it's far from stuffy. Ditch the seafood towers and prepare for artfully arranged platters, perfect for sharing (or not!).

Lunch, Happy Hour & Seafood Platters: Oh My!

Bayonet is now open for lunch, alongside dinner. Plus, there's a "Two Buck Shuck" happy hour (3-5 PM) with $2 oysters and Alabama light beers. Score!

From Sea to Plate: Freshness is Key

Evans Meats and Seafood and Fairhope Fish House supply the goods. The focus? Quality so fresh, the fish are practically swimming. All fish are delivered whole and carefully broken down in-house.

Beyond the Usual Suspects: Get Ready to Explore

Sure, you'll find tuna and swordfish, but what about Spanish mackerel? Sardines? Bayonet's not afraid to get adventurous. Think charcoal-grilled mackerel and smoked sardines atop potato pie.

Egg-cellent Additions: The Menu's Secret Weapon

Believe it or not, the egg salad sandwich (spiked with Japanese mayo, chives, and caviar!) is a runaway hit. Swordfish schnitzel and shrimp banh mi also hold court on the menu.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

McDaniel credits his team's creativity and imagination for Bayonet's success. He empowers them to bring their own ideas to the table, resulting in a menu that's both innovative and delicious.

Helen & Bayonet: A Culinary Power Couple

Being next door to Helen creates a synergistic effect, with guests hopping between the two for cocktails, oysters, dinner, and dessert.

Balance is Key: Chef, Owner, Husband, Father

McDaniel emphasizes the importance of balance, prioritizing his family and building a strong team to support his two restaurants.

The Name Game: More Than Just a Weapon

The restaurant was originally going to be named Bayonet after the weapon. But then they went to Pea Crab, which didn't work out. So they went back to Bayonet and thought of the plant.

Beyond Expectations: A Different Kind of Seafood Experience

McDaniel hopes Bayonet will surprise and delight customers, offering a seafood experience that's unexpected and distinctly different from Helen.

Bayonet Deets

Chef Rob McDaniel (with wife Emily!) 2015 Second Ave. North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203 205-829-1899 Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Alabama's Red Reign: Fiscal Responsibility in the Statehouse

When the GOP grabbed the reins in Montgomery back in 2010, they didn't just change the scenery; they overhauled the whole legislative landscape. Alabama made it crystal clear: it was rocking the Republican red loud and proud, both socially and when it came to the budget.

Beyond the Posturing: The Power of Prudence

While some of the social stances might be more for show, the real shift has been in how Alabama handles its money. Think conservative budgeting and careful handling of your hard-earned tax dollars.

From "Drunken Sailors" to Balanced Budgets

Before 2010, critics say Alabama Democrats were spending like there was no tomorrow, seemingly ignoring balanced budgets. Proration (budget cuts) was practically an annual event. Now? No proration in 15 years under Republican leadership, and the "rainy day" funds are getting fatter. Mainstream Republicans want a balanced budget and that’s what they are getting.

Riding the Wave of Federal Funds Wisely

Sure, the state's been awash in federal cash lately. But the budget gurus in Montgomery didn't get carried away. They used that money for one-time projects, not long-term commitments. While other states, particularly those with Democratic leaders, are sweating budget shortfalls, Alabama's doing just fine.

The Four Horsemen (and Poole!) of Fiscal Responsibility

Much credit goes to a quartet of budget chairmen: State Senator Arthur Orr, Representative Danny Garrett, Representative Rex Reynolds and Senator Greg Albritton are all doing a stellar job.

Orr, the Senate's education finance guru, shapes how two-thirds of the state's tax dollars are spent. Garrett, a sharp businessman, keeps a close eye on education funds in the House. Reynolds and Speaker Ledbetter work together to ensure dollars are well-spent in the House General Fund. Senator Greg Albritton tirelessly crafts the General Fund Budget in the Senate.

A nod also goes to Bill Poole, who managed the Education Budget in the House before moving on to State Finance Director.

The Rolling Reserve Act: A Game Changer

One of the smartest moves? Implementing the Rolling Reserve Act, which put an end to overspending during boom times. This ensures 14 years without proration to education spending!

Trump-Like on Immigration, Efficient in Reality

Like Trump, Alabama's Republican-led Legislature has also been been focused on immigration and crime. But when someone asks if Alabama needs a Department of Government Efficiency? The answer is a resounding, "We already have one – it's called the Alabama Republican Legislative Leadership!"

Young Hunter's First Gobbler Wins Big!

Get ready for a heartwarming tale of a young hunter and his granddad! Mason McLaughlin, just 11 years old, recently bagged his first ever turkey while hunting with his grandfather, Wallace Walker, on family land in Lowndesboro.

A Rollercoaster of Emotions

The pair spotted a gobbler and its hens strutting their stuff, only to see them disappear back into the woods. Mason was crushed! "I literally started crying," he confessed, overcome with disappointment.

Patience Pays Off

But these hunters didn't give up! Despite the cold, rainy weather, they persevered, eventually luring the gobbler back into range of Mason's trusty .410.

"I Didn't Miss!"

Talk about pressure! "If I miss this shot, I’m going to jump off a bridge," Mason told himself. Luckily, he didn't have to test the bridge! He nailed the shot, bagging his first gobbler.

Winning Photo!

The photo of Mason's first gobbler was entered into the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association (ALBBAA)’s Big Gobbler Photo Contest… and it won! The image captured the hearts (and votes) of everyone.

Prizes Galore!

As the winner, Mason snagged a sweet prize package worth $275, including an Otis Elite Gun Care Kit, a Dead Ringer shotgun sight, and some awesome turkey calls.

A Cherished Memory

Grandfather Walker was thrilled to share the hunt with Mason, adding that the contest win made it even more special. ALBBAA Director Pam Swanner highlighted the importance of the contest in celebrating family memories.

Black Belt Adventures Await!

The Black Belt region boasts some of the best hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures in Alabama. The Big Gobbler Photo Contest, held annually during turkey season, encourages folks to get out there and experience it!

Alabama Seafood Cook-Off Crowns a New Champ!

The Alabama Seafood Cook-Off, now rocking the Sweet Grown Alabama colors, just wrapped up another year of drool-worthy creations showcasing the best of Alabama's bounty – especially that Gulf seafood!

This year's showdown at The Wharf in Orange Beach saw four amazing teams battle it out, but Chef Ben Rosen and Sous Chef Walker Hughes from Auburn's The Depot snagged the top spot. Their winning "Alabama Summer" dish was a masterpiece: marinated, pecan-grilled cobia, sweet corn with Bill-E's bacon (yum!), risotto fried green tomato, cobia confit lump blue crab rillette, charred peach and blistered okra relish, all drizzled with black lemon herb butter. Seriously, can we get a plate of that?

From Grill Cook to Culinary King

"It feels amazing!" Chef Rosen exclaimed. He's been on a total whirlwind at The Depot, going from grill cook to chef de partie in just a year and a half. This win? A fantastic feat!

Rosen's secret weapon? Cobia! He's heading to the Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans, and he thinks his clever use of this rebounding fish might just be what sealed the deal. He marinated the cobia belly in a vibrant mix of parsley, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, olive oil, lemon juice, and zest. The relish? Grilled peach, blistered okra (two kinds!), and pickled okra. The risotto? Alabama sweet corn and Bill-E's bacon, naturally. And that black butter sauce? Simple, creamy, herby goodness with a touch of cuttlefish ink for that cool color.

Other Culinary Contenders

But let's give some love to the other chefs who brought their A-game! Emilio Urban from Coastal Restaurant in Orange Beach also rocked the cobia with his spiced version alongside a blue crab Basque cheesecake and watermelon pearls. Chef Austin Salinas of Hatch Restaurant in Huntsville wowed with poached red snapper, ginger kohlrabi slaw, and garden pesto. And Chef Megan Vanderford of Odette from Florence served up seared flounder with pork and crawfish rice dressing and Kodachrome Gardens salsa verde.

More Than Just a Cook-Off

The Alabama Seafood Cook-Off is more than just a competition. It's a celebration of all things Alabama – the amazing seafood, the local produce, and the talented chefs who bring it all together. Sweet Grown Alabama is carrying the torch, ensuring that Alabama's culinary scene continues to shine! Ellie Watson, Director of Sweet Grown Alabama, said, "This event is more than just a cook-off; it’s a celebration of our state’s incredible culinary talent and our thriving seafood industry."

Customer Service Pros Get Their Diplomas!

Big news from the Alabama Community College System! Last Thursday marked the graduation of the very first class from their Customer Service Professional Training Program. Ten rockstars completed the intensive eight-week course, held at Jefferson State.

The Program's a Winner!

Instructor Angelia Hale is stoked about the program's impact. "It's amazing! The feedback I'm getting shows it's super beneficial for anyone passionate about customer service," she said. "I'd recommend it to any business looking to boost their customer service hires."

What's the Secret Sauce?

The program is all about giving students the skills they need to shine in customer service roles. Evening classes make it accessible for busy folks. The curriculum is packed with goodies, from call center basics to business etiquette, communication skills, CRM software, and even product promotion!

Industry Partners FTW!

This awesome program wouldn't be possible without some amazing partners, including Alabama Power, BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama, Spire, Protective Life Insurance, ALFA Insurance, ASK Telemarketing, Guardian Credit Union, and Regions Bank.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

"We're so proud of our grads and the partnerships that made this happen," said Leah Bigbee, Jefferson State’s Dean of Workforce. "By teaming up with industry leaders, we've built a curriculum that hits the mark and sets students up for success. This graduating class proves what happens when education and industry join forces!"

Opening Doors

For businesses, customer service is key. This program opens doors to a dynamic career, building a foundation for growth, whether grads stick with customer service or move into other roles.

What's Next?

Partner companies interviewed the grads on May 28th, and Hale's hoping they all land killer jobs. The future's bright! The next class is heading to Trenholm State, likely in late summer/early fall. Lawson State is also expected to host classes later this year.

An Instructor's Passion

"I had a fantastic group! They asked great questions and texted me after hours about the work, and I was always there for them,” Hale said. "We couldn't have asked for a better class.”

Davis Architects Names Courtney Pittman as President!

Big news from Alabama's oldest architecture firm, Davis Architects! Courtney Pittman, AIA, has officially been named president, marking a significant milestone in the firm's 113-year history. For Courtney, this isn't just a job—it's deeply personal.

A Powerful Moment

Courtney remembers a high school career day where a speaker told the women present that architecture was "a man's profession." Now, years later, leading Alabama's oldest architecture firm, she calls it "humbling."

Overcoming Barriers & Honoring Legacy

She credits her positive experiences to supportive colleagues and her time at Davis, recalling the inspiration she found in Helen Sellers Davis, the first registered female architect in Alabama. Helen, still working in her 80s, instilled in Courtney a sense of spirit and influence.

Built to Last

Davis Architects' success stems from its family legacy and focus on longevity. They collaborate closely with clients to create buildings that reflect their values and stand the test of time. "We look at buildings that last decades and centuries, and we realize that those buildings are going to outlast us."

More Than Just Buildings

Courtney finds deep meaning in her work, creating spaces that improve lives, from performing arts centers to museums to athletic training facilities. She's currently working on projects that honor the past while creating spaces for the future, like the renovation of Foster Auditorium at The University of Alabama, site of the "Stand in the Schoolhouse Door."

Women Leading the Way

Looking ahead, Courtney is excited about the future. Gabrielle Fuller, AIA, is now Senior Vice President, Architecture, and Stephanie Pope, IIDA, is Senior Vice President, Interior Design. The firm is also seeking Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) certification! It's a fitting tribute to Helen Sellers Davis, Alabama's first licensed female architect.

A Bright Future

Courtney is ready to lead Davis Architects into a new era, staying true to its roots and honoring those who came before. The future looks bright for this historic firm!

Pulpit Fashion Fights: Can We Ever Agree?

Okay, ChumCity citizens, let's talk about something that always sparks debate: what a pastor wears in the pulpit. This is a battleground as tough as deciding on the best pizza topping!

The Casual Church Trend

Remember the whole "dress down" thing from the contemporary church movement? It was all about making church more accessible. The idea was to eliminate the "I don't have Sunday clothes" excuse. Totally understandable, right?

Casual Fridays and Beyond

This trend mirrored what was happening in the wider world. "Casual Friday" became a thing, then it spilled over into the rest of the week. Suits? Who needs 'em! But what about in church?

Modesty: The Only Real Rule?

Scripture doesn't offer much fashion advice beyond the need for modesty. One pastor on Facebook argued that ministers should always rock a coat and tie. Another countered with "jeans like a real man!" Talk about opposite ends of the spectrum!

"Real" or Representational?

The debate boils down to this: Does a casually dressed pastor seem more relatable? Or should a pastor dress in a way that reflects the importance and authority of representing God's kingdom?

Robes and Respect: A Willimon Wisdom

Think about judges. They wear robes because they represent something bigger than themselves. Imagine a judge rocking a t-shirt and jeans in court?

The Unwinnable Argument

Ultimately, what a pastor wears is an unwinnable debate! The best approach? Find out what's expected and go with that, unless you can persuade the congregation otherwise.

Translation Troubles: Another Day, Another Debate

And don't even get us started on acceptable Bible translations in the pulpit... That's a can of worms for another time!

Alabama Girls State Set to Inspire Future Leaders!

Get ready, ChumCity! The American Legion Auxiliary Alabama Girls State is back, bigger and better than ever! From June 1st to 6th, over 400 of Alabama's brightest rising high school seniors will descend upon The University of Alabama for a week of hands-on government immersion.

These future powerhouses will dive headfirst into drafting laws, engaging in lively political debates, campaigning for office, and soaking up wisdom from state and national leaders. It's a crash course in civic engagement designed to ignite their passion for public service!

Star-Studded Speaker Lineup

This year's speaker lineup is absolutely incredible! Alumnae Governor Kay Ivey and U.S. Senator Katie Britt are coming back to share their experiences. Senator Britt even served as Girls State Governor back in '99!

Action-Packed Week

The week culminates with an awesome trip to Montgomery, where the delegates will tour the State Capitol, Supreme Court, and Governor's Mansion. They'll even get to hold their own legislative sessions at the Alabama State House! How cool is that?

Open Sessions!

Want a sneak peek at the action? Select sessions are open to the media at the Moody Music Building Concert Hall: (See original text for dates and times of sessions)

A Premier Youth Program

Alabama Girls State is a renowned program dedicated to nurturing leadership and civic responsibility in young women. It’s a true gem for Alabama's youth!

Got Questions?

For more information, reach out to Grace Heim at (334) 470-9667.

Biscuits Take Flight at Maxwell!

Our beloved Montgomery Biscuits swapped bats for briefings recently, paying a visit to Maxwell Air Force Base! The team got a firsthand look at how our service members hone their problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership skills.

A Day in the Life

According to U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Nicolas Zimmerman, it was Team Maxwell's pleasure to host the Biscuits. He emphasized the strong bond between the Biscuits and Maxwell, highlighting Montgomery's support for national defense.

Soaring Through Maxwell

The Biscuits toured Maxwell’s air park, checked out some impressive aircraft, got leadership briefings, and even tackled Project X – a leadership reaction course from Squadron Officer School!

A Grand Slam Connection

Mike Murphy, Montgomery Biscuits general manager, noted the importance of the team understanding the community they're in, including the significant role of Maxwell Air Force Base. Sounds like a win-win!

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

The Biscuits engaged in problem-solving and teamwork exercises, building bridges between the local community and the military. This collaboration cultivates understanding and strengthens partnerships within our awesome community.

Source: Alabama News Center

Alabama Gets a Shiny New State House!

For years, Alabama schoolchildren visiting the Capitol in Montgomery have seen government in action and the building's serious need for a makeover. Think cramped rooms, grumpy elevators, and not enough space for all those eager visitors!

Enter: Project Modernization!

Those days are numbered, folks! A brand new State House is under construction, promising a better experience for lawmakers and the public alike.

Bye-Bye to the Old, Hello to the New!

The current State House, a product of the 1960s, is getting replaced as part of a $350 million project. The plan? Tear down the old building and create a green, park-like space perfect for school groups and community events. Imagine a welcoming campus right in downtown Montgomery!

A Big Deal for Alabama

According to Patrick Harris, Alabama's Secretary of the Senate, this project is a major milestone. It's been decades since a state built an entirely new capital building!

Tech-Savvy and Tour-Friendly

The new building will be packed with modern tech, including updated committee rooms, legislative chambers, and offices. Get ready for live-streamed meetings and greater government transparency! Plus, say goodbye to those elevator woes – school tours will be much smoother.

Staying on Track (and Under Budget!)

The Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA) is footing the bill, and things are looking good! Nia Scott from RSA says the project is on schedule and under budget. Construction is buzzing with activity, and a large chunk of the project should be contracted out by September 2024.

The Grand Opening?

The new State House is slated for completion by the end of 2026. Lawmakers should be settling in for their first legislative session in 2027. Get ready for a revamped Capitol experience!