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Redstone Arsenal: Ready for a Boom!

Our own Rep. Dale Strong is buzzing with confidence about Redstone Arsenal's future! He recently chatted with The Dale Jackson Show, laying out just how ready Huntsville is to handle some serious growth, including that FBI expansion we've been hearing so much about.

Room to Grow

Strong emphasized the Arsenal's vastness: "We have right around 45,000 acres, plenty of room to grow!" He pointed out the strong local workforce, crucial for filling all those incoming jobs. With existing cyber infrastructure and completed buildings, Huntsville's already seeing action!

Cleaning Up the Beltway

Strong also addressed some serious concerns about the FBI, highlighting the need to "clean out the beltway." He stressed the importance of ensuring the FBI isn't used against everyday Americans, specifically calling out issues like the wiretapping of Trump Tower and the misuse of FISA warrants.

Draining the Swamp?

"It's definitely become a cesspool there," Strong stated, referring to corruption in the FBI. He expressed his confidence that Donald Trump will address these issues.

Huntsville's FBI Footprint

Currently, Redstone Arsenal boasts over 1,300 FBI personnel. With thousands more potentially relocating from Washington, D.C., Huntsville's about to become a major hub for the Bureau.

Alabama's Banking Deserts: Credit Unions Ride to the Rescue!

Hey ChumCity! Ever feel like you're driving miles just to hit up a bank? Well, in some Alabama towns, that's becoming the norm. Shockingly, over 150 areas are now considered "banking deserts," meaning folks have to trek over 10 miles for basic financial services! And another 300+ are on the brink. Yikes! That's almost 40% of the state facing serious access issues.

Credit Unions: The Local Heroes

But hold up! Credit unions are stepping in to save the day. They're expanding into these underserved areas, opening branches, and hiring local folks. It's all about being a trusted resource, as Bobby Michael from All In Credit Union puts it. They're "being present where we’re needed most and serving those who’ve historically been overlooked.”

Real Impact, Real Stories

This isn't just talk. Check out George W. Long High School, where a student-run All In Credit Union branch is the only financial institution in town! Superintendent Ben Baker says it's a "win-win" for both students and the community.

Austin McDaniel, a student working at the branch, gets to have awesome conversations with classmates and community members. Plus, All In teaches students about "how to manage finances, and budgeting, saving, and spending responsibly.”

Fueling Small Businesses

Credit unions aren't just helping individuals; they're powering small businesses too! Last year alone, they dished out over $655 million in small business loans.

Chris Claunch, a local business owner, raves about Valley Credit Union's support. "They didn’t just finance our equipment; they took the time to understand our business and our goals. It feels like working with a partner, not just a lender."

More Than Just Banks

Credit unions are member-owned, community-focused, and building lasting relationships. When other institutions bail, credit unions are stepping up. They're teaming up with educators, business owners, and community leaders to build a stronger Alabama from the ground up. This collaborative effort is paying off, showing that when communities pull together, they thrive.

Written by Michelle Roth, VP of Advocacy for The League of Credit Unions, reminding us that credit unions aren't just in Alabama, they're rooted here.

Alabama Construction News Snags Top Award!

Guess what, ChumCity crew? Alabama Construction News (ACN) just scooped up a prestigious Azbee Award of Excellence! That's right, the ONLY statewide construction trade publication in Alabama is bringing home the gold in 2025.

What's the Big Deal?

These Azbee awards are a HUGE deal, celebrating the best of the best in business-to-business media. We're talking top-notch editorial, online savvy, and eye-catching design.

Local Leaders Weigh In

"Alabama Construction News is THE place to go for construction pros in our state," says ABC Board Chairman Tim Harrison. "This award proves we're keeping our members and the whole industry in the know!"

A Word from the Editor

Jay Reed, President of Alabama Associated Builders and Contractors and editor of ACN, is pumped about the award. "Reliable information is key for businesses," Reed explains. "Being the editor is a responsibility I love, and being the only Alabama publication to win this award? That's huge for our team."

Spreading the News

ACN boasts over 20,000 readers across Alabama and the Southeast, covering everything from local happenings to national trends. Keep an eye on them!

Alabama's Got Some Powerful Women!

Alabama's got a rep for producing amazing female leaders, right? We're talking legends like Helen Keller, Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott King. And today, we've got women leading as governor, U.S. senator, and even the state Supreme Court Chief Justice!

These women have earned accolades, awards, and even statues in the U.S. Capitol. But there are other influential Alabamians who aren't seeking the spotlight... like Dr. Catherine J. Randall.

Meet Cathy Randall

"Cathy" to her friends, Randall has an impressive resume. Two Ph.D.s from UA, former director of the Honors Programs, news anchor, member of the Alabama Academy of Honor... the list goes on! She's served on boards for Alabama Power, Mercedes-Benz USI, and Alabama Girls State, just to name a few.

She's been recognized as one of UA's top female grads and sits on the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame board. Now, her name graces UA's Catherine and Pettus Randall Welcome Center and the Randall Research Scholars Program.

A Quiet Impact

For decades, Randall has mentored young people and supported countless organizations. But she seems happiest out of the limelight.

"This is very difficult," she joked in an interview, "I didn't realize it was going to be 'me, me, me!'"

Birmingham Beginnings

Randall credits her success to her upbringing. "I had the most wonderful family... parents who did not perceive any glass ceiling."

A life-changing moment came when she was chosen to represent her school at Girls State and run for governor. She won, with encouragement from none other than Kay Ivey, who was her counselor.

Friendship and Leadership

Both Randall and Governor Ivey remained involved with Alabama Girls State for years, forging a lasting friendship. Ivey even called on Randall to hold her Bible during her gubernatorial oath of office.

Ivey said of Randall, "Cathy is a caring person and very generous with her time, talents and treasures. I am proud to call her my longtime friend."

Early Tech Innovator

Randall was drawn to a new computer-based honors program at UA. Her father encouraged her, saying, "Cathy, computers are going to be everywhere. You ought to think about this." She was selected as one of the first scholars.

Love and Legacy

At a dinner, she met Pettus Randall, her Boys State counterpart. They married a year later! After focusing on family, she became director of UA's Computer-Based Honors Program, eventually leading the entire University Honors Program for 25 years.

Mentoring Future Leaders

One of Randall's mentees is now U.S. Senator Katie Boyd Britt, who also served as governor at Alabama Girls State.

Randall recalled a quote Britt embodies: “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something.”

Senator Britt said that Randall's "many accomplishments and contributions... are only outshined by her generosity, humility, and servant leadership."

Family First

Despite her impressive career and friendships, Randall says her most rewarding role is wife and mother. Her three children have achieved great success in law, banking, and business.

Randall's Advice

Her advice for others? "Be excellent. Be grateful. Be ready to say 'yes.'"

Tide Roll On: Bama's First-Round Domination Continues!

Another year, another parade of Alabama stars heading to the NFL! The Crimson Tide have now extended their INSANE streak to 17 years straight with at least one player snagged in the first round. That's right, folks, since 2009, Bama has been an absolute first-round FACTORY! #NFLU indeed!

Booker to the 'Boys?!

In a move that had some folks raising their eyebrows, All-American guard Tyler Booker is heading to the Dallas Cowboys as the No. 12 overall pick! While most mocks had him pegged a bit later, the Cowboys clearly saw something special, grabbing what many consider the best guard in the entire draft. Get ready to protect Dak, Tyler!

From Teammates to Rivals!

But wait, there's more! Former Bama teammates are about to become bitter rivals! Linebacker Jihaad Campbell is heading to the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles with the No. 31 pick! Get ready for some serious Crimson Tide on Crimson Tide violence twice a year!

Campbell Joins the Philly Flock!

Campbell's joining a stacked Eagles defense and linking up with fellow Bama legends Jalen Hurts and DeVonta Smith. Philly's basically SEC East 2.0 at this point!

Milroe Up Next?

While Jalen Milroe didn't hear his name called in the first round, keep an eye out for him on Friday! He's got a great shot to go in the second or third round.

The Standard is the Standard!

Regardless, the streak continues! Alabama continues to churn out top-tier talent, proving once again why they're the standard in college football!

ASCTE Sets Sights on Global STEM Domination!

The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE) Board of Trustees just wrapped up a meeting in the state capital, and HUGE things are on the horizon for STEM education in Alabama! The board unanimously greenlit their 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, packed with seriously ambitious goals to take the school's reputation worldwide.

Research Institute: The Future is NOW!

According to the powers that be at ASCTE, a brand-new research institute and academic hub are key to their growth. Get this – it's the FIRST of its kind at the high school level! They're diving headfirst into cutting-edge areas like AI, quantum computing, cyber ranges, and big data. The goal? To create research partnerships, publish groundbreaking discoveries, encourage student-led startups, and weave these advanced topics right into the curriculum.

Investing in Alabama's Future Workforce

Board Vice Chair Alicia Ryan said it best: "This new research center positions ASCTE to drive innovation... It’s an investment in the future workforce of our state.”

ASCTE President Matt Massey added that this plan is all about "student success and educational excellence. By expanding our research capabilities and campus resources, we are ensuring our students are prepared to lead in tomorrow’s technology fields.”

Expanding Horizons for Students and Faculty

They’re not just talking the talk. This plan includes concrete steps like boosting the first-year student experience, supporting faculty development, reaching out to school systems across the state, and using partnerships to MAXIMIZE ASCTE’s impact. Basically, they're doubling down on their mission to prep students for cyber and engineering careers while solidifying their place as a STEM education leader.

New Dorm on the Horizon

Oh, and one more thing! The board also looked at plans for a brand-spankin' new girls' dorm. It's part of their ongoing expansion to welcome an ever-growing and diverse student body. Construction should kick off next fiscal year!

Governor Ivey Mourns Loss of Beloved Dog, Missy

Alabama's Governor Kay Ivey is asking everyone to give their furry friends some extra love. This comes after the sad news of the passing of her own cherished dog, Missy.

A Loyal Companion

Missy, a sweet collie mix, was practically glued to Governor Ivey's side. She joined the Ivey family back in January 2019 after being adopted from the Montgomery Humane Shelter. Missy was approximately ten years young.

"She Made It Feel Like Home"

In a heartfelt statement, Governor Ivey shared her feelings about her four-legged friend. "Missy was a great friend," she said. "Coming home to the Governor's Mansion after good days and tough ones was always made better by Missy's greeting. She really made it feel like home, and I will miss her dearly. Missy lived a great life. There's nothing quite like the love from our pets.”

Gratitude for Care

Governor Ivey also expressed her sincere appreciation to the team at Montgomery Veterinary Associates for their compassionate care and comfort provided to Missy during her final days.