Birmingham Water Works Board: A Missed Opportunity?

So, word on the street (or, you know, on NPR and PBS) is that the Birmingham Water Works Board's recent woes could have been sidestepped. Apparently, the chance to steer clear was there all along. Talk about a "shoulda, coulda, woulda" moment!

Dale Jackson Weighs In

Need some Alabama perspective? Dale Jackson, the brains behind the Yellowhammer News and the voice you hear weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN, probably has some thoughts. This is ChumCity after all, so get ready for the real deal.

Longshore and McKnight: Road Trippin' to Collierville!

John and Barry are broadcasting LIVE from Collierville, Tennessee, bringing the heat with their signature blend of sports insight and laugh-out-loud banter!

What's On Deck?

Get ready for a deep dive into the Troy baseball team's killer streak, plus all the wild upsets shaking up the NBA playoffs—did you SEE the Knicks?! They're also tackling those head-scratching MLB scheduling quirks that have everyone talking. Expect plenty of regional flavor and those oh-so-sweet Auburn-Alabama jabs you know and love.

Exclusive Interview: Auburn Undercover's Jason Caldwell!

This episode features an awesome chat with Jason Caldwell from Auburn Undercover. They're breaking down Auburn baseball’s chances in the postseason, shouting out the team's star players, and even digging into football schedules and those basketball roster shake-ups. Oh, and they're spotlighting that quarterback phenom, Trent Seaborn!

Saban's New Gig?

To wrap things up, the guys are playfully speculating on Nick Saban's potential appointment to some presidential commission on college athletics. Can he REALLY share leadership? Hilarity and skepticism ensue!

Big News for Alabama Schools: Cell Phone Ban Incoming!

Get ready, Alabama students! A new statewide law is set to silence those distracting cell phones during school hours, starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. The Alabama Legislature just gave the thumbs-up to HB166 – affectionately known as the FOCUS Act – and it's now headed to Governor Kay Ivey's desk for her signature.

What's the Deal?

Basically, students in public schools will need to power down and stash away their wireless devices (that means cell phones!) during the school day. Think lockers, cars, or wherever your school designates. The idea is to create a more focused learning environment!

Key Dates and Policies

School systems have until July 1, 2025, to get their cell phone policies in line with the new ban. While many schools already have restrictions in place, the FOCUS Act sets a consistent standard across the state.

Exceptions? Of Course!

Don't worry, there are exceptions. Students with medical needs (think monitoring diabetes with apps) or those with individualized education plans (IEPs) can still use their phones when necessary. Emergency situations are covered too.

Online Safety is Key!

This isn't just about banning phones. Schools will also be beefing up their internet safety policies. Plus, the Alabama State Department of Education is creating a digital course on social media awareness and online safety that every student needs to complete before hitting eighth grade.

Why the Change?

Lawmakers heard the call from educators who are battling distractions, disruptions, and behavioral issues caused by cell phone use. They're also aware of the growing concerns about the impact of screen time on kids' mental health. The goal? To support teachers and create a better learning atmosphere.

Quick Calls to Mom & Dad?

Attempts to allow quick texts or calls home were turned down. But fear not! School offices are still the go-to for supervised communication with family when needed.

State House District 12 Special Election is Coming!

Big news, ChumCity citizens! The Alabama Republican Party has announced the qualifying dates for the special election in State House District 12. This seat, representing parts of Cullman County, was previously held by State Rep. Corey Harbison, who's stepping down to focus on family.

Qualifying Dates and Info

Want to throw your hat in the ring? Qualifying kicks off bright and early at 8:30 a.m. next Monday and wraps up at 5 p.m. on Tuesday. The Alabama GOP is welcoming Republican candidates to qualify either online or in person at their headquarters in Hoover.

A Word from the ALGOP Chair

Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl expressed gratitude for Harbison's service, stating, "We appreciate Representative Harbison’s decade of service...The Alabama Republican Party remains focused on supporting our candidates who uphold our conservative principles."

Mark Your Calendars! Key Election Dates

Here are the dates you need to remember:

• Special Primary Election: July 15
• Special Primary Runoff (if needed): August 12
• Special General Election: October 28

Alabama Companies Honored for Global Trade Prowess!

Governor Kay Ivey just gave some serious props to five awesome Alabama companies, handing out the 2025 Governor’s Trade Excellence Awards at a State Capitol shindig. These awards celebrate companies killing it on the international stage, boosting Alabama's economy and spreading the "Made in Alabama" vibe worldwide!

Big Ups to Mercedes-Benz!

The Governor also gave a shout-out to Mercedes-Benz U.S. International for rockin' the export game and enhancing Alabama's global rep.

World Trade Month is ON!

May is officially "World Trade Month" in Alabama, so let's celebrate!

Governor Ivey's Take

"These exporters are proving that Alabama businesses can compete — and win — globally," said Governor Ivey. "They're also creating jobs and opportunities right here at home. Their success is a powerful message: Alabama is open for business and ready to lead!"

Exports are Booming!

Alabama exports are soaring! In 2024, they hit a whopping $26.8 billion, almost 30% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Alabama-made products reached 194 countries, with Mercedes-Benz leading the charge.

Secretary McNair's Stance

"We see international engagement as a powerful opportunity — one that fuels growth in every corner of our state," said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.

The Honorees!

Here are the Alabama exporters taking home the gold:

• Central Steel Service: From small-time domestic to global steel powerhouse, exporting to places like Canada and South Korea.
• SEA Wire and Cable: Huntsville's finest, supplying military and aerospace wire to major players like Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
• Silver Ships: Theodore's pride, building top-notch aluminum workboats for military and commercial clients across the globe.
• Special Shapes Refractory Co.: Bessemer's best, manufacturing custom refractory shapes for vital industries, exporting worldwide.
• System Studies & Simulation Inc. (S³): Huntsville heroes, providing services to the U.S. military and allies in 26+ global locations.

Special Recognition for Mike Lee

Mike Lee of Page & Jones got a special shout-out for his years of leadership in international logistics. He's a licensed Customs House Broker and a key figure in Alabama's maritime trade.

What Does the Department of Commerce Do?

The Department of Commerce's Global Business Office offers training, market insights, and international connections to help Alabama businesses thrive abroad through Export Alabama.

Jay-Z Fires Back in Defamation Lawsuit

The music world's buzzing! Jay-Z, aka Shawn Carter, is taking legal action in Alabama after a woman (identified as Jane Doe) accused him of sexual assault.

From Allegations to Amended Complaint

Originally, Doe filed a lawsuit against Jay-Z, but later withdrew it, citing inconsistencies in her account. Now, Jay-Z is going on the offensive, suing Doe and her legal team!

"Evil Conspiracy" Claimed

According to reports, Jay-Z's legal team alleges an "evil conspiracy" cooked up by Doe and her attorneys, Tony Buzbee and David Fortney. They claim her allegations of assault at a 2000 MTV Video Music Awards afterparty are "completely fabricated."

Reputation on the Line?

Even with the original lawsuit dropped, Jay-Z argues that Doe's continued statements are damaging his hard-earned reputation.

No Apology, No Peace?

The complaint states Doe's refusal to apologize, despite conflicting evidence and her own admissions, demonstrates a "shocking and reckless disregard for the truth." The filing goes on to allege that Doe's statements lacked any reasonable basis and were made with "reckless disregard for the truth.” In other words, they're saying she straight-up lied.

Tuberville's Big Decision: Governor or Senate?

Senator Tommy Tuberville is playing a little political "he loves me, he loves me not" with Alabama. Is he going to run for governor, or stick around in the Senate? It's the question on everyone's mind, and Tuberville himself is being coy.

What's He Saying?

Despite whispers suggesting he's already made up his mind to go for the Governor's mansion, Tuberville claims he's still mulling over his options. He told WVNN that his main goal is "what's best for the people of Alabama." He hints that the complicated political landscape is making a quick decision difficult.

Tick-Tock Goes the Clock

Tuberville recognizes that his decision has a ripple effect. If he stays put, others are free to jump into the governor's race. But if he throws his hat in the ring for governor, then the Senate seat is up for grabs. He emphasized the need for a strong, conservative voice in the Senate.

The Ainsworth Factor

Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth is likely the "people waiting" Tuberville mentioned. Ainsworth is widely expected to run for governor, but a showdown with Tuberville could make things tough. While some speculate Ainsworth might eye the Senate, he claims his heart is really set on the governor's office.

Ainsworth's Got That Underdog Spirit

Ainsworth acknowledges the competition, but welcomes the challenge. He believes he can best serve Alabama as governor, but is watching how things develop. It seems like he's ready to rumble!

Water Works Board Gets a Makeover!

Big news, ChumCity! The Birmingham Water Works Board is getting a serious upgrade thanks to Governor Ivey's recent enactment of SB330. What's the deal? This new law is all about fair representation, shifting power from just Birmingham to a regional board that takes the whole area into account.

Shifting the Scales

For too long, Birmingham had a disproportionate amount of control over our state's biggest water provider. Lawmakers decided enough was enough, and this year, they tackled the issue head-on. The old board of nine (dominated by Birmingham appointees) is out, and a new, seven-member board appointed by various state and regional authorities is in!

New Board, New Faces

Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth and Jefferson County Commission President Jimmie Stephens have already announced their first picks, getting the ball rolling. Everyone from the Governor to local county leaders has 20 days to make their appointments.

Qualified Crew Only

This isn't just about bodies in seats, though. SB330 demands appointees have serious skills! Think financial whizzes, engineering pros, and folks who know the ins and outs of running complex operations like a water system.

First Appointments Announced

President Stephens snagged Phillip R. Wiedmeyer, a retired engineer with decades of experience, while Lt. Governor Ainsworth picked Bill Morris, a seasoned utility manager from Leeds Water Works. These are serious players who know their stuff!

Birmingham's Pushback

Not everyone's thrilled about the change. Birmingham tried to block the new law in court, but a judge quickly shut that down. They even tried to buy the Water Works Board's assets for a single dollar! One of the new appointees is already fighting that in court. Talk about drama!

What's Next?

We're waiting to hear who Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin will appoint to the new board. Stay tuned, ChumCity, because this story is just getting started!

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