ChumCity: Stuff You Missed!

Here's a quick hit of news you might have missed in the swirling vortex of, well, everything. Hold on tight!

Halloween Hysteria!

Halloween was apparently trigger-central! DHS agents sporting horror masks during raids? Check. A "comedian" with a blackface mishap? You bet. And, because no one wants to be left out, a Charlie Kirk assassination costume and teachers reportedly mocking his death were also thrown in the mix. Spooky!

Auburn's Coaching Carousel Continues

Auburn just gave head coach Hugh Freeze the boot...along with a cool $15.4 million. A 4-5 season record (and a less-than-stellar SEC performance) sealed the deal. Ouch.

Alabama's Legal Eagle Flies with Trump

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is backing Trump's move to end birthright citizenship for kids of illegal immigrants. He's joined 24 other states, arguing the 14th Amendment was intended for freed slaves, not, you know, everyone.

DHS Crackdown: No Americans Arrested?

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem claims no U.S. citizens were caught in the crackdown. Meanwhile, some were arrested for messing with law enforcement. And in Alabama, an attorney is warning against cozying up to ICE. Seems legit.

Trump Thumbs Up Alabama Republicans

Trump's backing Alabama Republican U.S. Reps Aderholt, Strong, Palmer, and Rogers for 2026 reelection, praising their "America First" dedication.

SNAP Benefits Saved (For Now)

A Rhode Island judge ruled SNAP has to use $6 billion to avoid halting benefits for 42 million people. Payments should be happening as you read this.

Shutdown Shenanigans!

Trump couldn't get Republicans on board with the "nuclear option" to end the shutdown. The latest buzz suggests it might end this week, with some even suggesting Democrats will be blamed for dragging it out. Trump's take? Democrats are "lunatics." Well, alrighty then!

(Original content from Dale Jackson at Yellowhammer News and WVNN.)

Protective Life Set to Expand Footprint with Portfolio Acquisition!

Get ready for some big moves in the finance and insurance (F&I) world! Birmingham's own Protective Life Corporation just announced plans to snag Portfolio Holding, Inc. and all its subsidiaries from Abry Partners. This deal is set to seriously boost Protective's presence in the national F&I scene. Portfolio, known for its rock-solid reinsurance services and F&I products for auto, RV, powersports, and marine dealers nationwide, is a hot commodity!

Why This Acquisition is a Big Deal

This isn't just another acquisition; it's a major step in Protective's ongoing expansion and diversification within its Asset Protection Division. Think of it as adding another powerful engine to their business. By bringing Portfolio's dealer wealth programs and tech platform into the mix, Protective is gearing up to offer even better service and cutting-edge solutions for dealerships and customers everywhere.

What Protective is Saying

"Portfolio is a perfect match for us," says Scott Karchunas, president of Protective’s Asset Protection Division. "They share our passion for innovation and helping dealers succeed. Together, we're making F&I bigger and better while staying focused on long-term value for our partners and their customers."

About Portfolio

Founded in 1990 and based in Lake Forest, California, Portfolio boasts offices in Dallas and Cleveland too. With around 450 employees, they serve millions with vehicle service contracts, GAP coverage, and other essential protection products. They've even racked up 18 Dealers’ Choice Awards for stellar service!

Portfolio's Excitement

Jeremy Lux, CEO of Portfolio, is thrilled. "Joining forces with Protective is an exciting new chapter! With Protective's network and expertise, we have a seriously powerful platform to get our proven solutions to even more dealers."

Protective's Asset Protection Division

Protective’s Asset Protection Division has been a force in the automotive F&I space for over 60 years, supporting over 10,000 dealerships. Recent acquisitions like AUL, Revolos, and U.S. Warranty have only solidified its importance.

The Bigger Picture

Rich Bielen, president and CEO of Protective Life, sums it up: "This acquisition marks another huge step. Portfolio's track record in dealer wealth programs and their understanding of dealer success are invaluable. Life insurance and annuities are still our bread and butter, but expanding Asset Protection lets us protect even more customers."

What's Next?

The deal should wrap up by the end of 2025, pending regulatory approvals. It’ll be Protective’s 61st acquisition overall, and the eighth since joining Dai-ichi Life Holdings back in 2015. Protective Life is a key piece of Dai-ichi Life Holdings’ North American strategy, employing over 3,500 people and serving nearly 17 million customers. They're a major player in Alabama’s financial scene, committed to innovation and protecting customers!

Time Flies (Backwards, Then Forwards!)

Yep, we did it again! Sunday marked the annual ritual of shoving our clocks back an hour, officially plunging us into Standard Time and kicking Daylight Saving Time to the curb...for now. Don't get too comfy with those extra Zzz's, because on March 8, 2026, we're springing forward once more!

Sunset Blues?

Prepare for early sunsets, folks. Sunday saw the sun dip below the horizon at 53 p.m., a stark contrast to Saturday's 63 p.m. goodbye. While nature offers a gradual sunset shift, the government prefers a jarring, hour-long adjustment. Which way do you prefer?

Darkness Descends

Get ready for twilight commutes and nighttime errands. Those afternoon activities just got a whole lot darker, a trend that will continue until the year's earliest sunset on December 2nd at a gloomy 4:50 p.m.

"Lock the Clock!" - Tuberville's Crusade

While many are pushing to ditch the time-changing tango, Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville has been a vocal champion of the "Sunshine Protection Act," aimed at ending the bi-annual clock chaos.

A Senate Showdown

Despite passing the Senate in 2022, the bill stumbled in the House, leaving us stuck in the time warp. But Tuberville isn't giving up, continuing to advocate for his cause on the Senate floor.

What's the Big Deal?

In his own words, Tuberville says the constant clock shifting is the thing Alabamans bring up with him the most. So, what's his argument? He points out how obsolete and unhealthy it is. Car accidents and heart attacks even increase after changing our clocks!

Health and the Economy

Tuberville also highlights the health and economic benefits of sticking to Daylight Saving Time year-round. More daylight in the evenings would boost outdoor activities, help local businesses, and potentially reduce crime rates. He even cites studies to back up his claims!

Shutdown Shadows: A Moral Reckoning for America

When the lights dim in D.C., the shadows stretch far beyond Capitol Hill. A federal shutdown isn't just a bureaucratic hiccup; it's a stark reflection of who we are. When paychecks dry up, safety nets fray, and those who serve us line up for food, something's deeply wrong.

Land of Plenty? More Like Lines of Need.

America, the land of abundance, now sees its own queuing for groceries at churches. This isn't just a political mess; it's a spiritual crisis. A creeping sickness has infected our schools, entertainment, politics, even our pulpits. We've forgotten that we're not our own masters.

Reverence Lost, Rebellion Found

Reverence has been swapped for rebellion, conviction for convenience. This shutdown exposes how fragile our confidence is when it's built on worldly systems. Federal workers, families, and small businesses aren't lining up out of laziness, but because their hope was in a failing institution. God often uses our needs to remind us where our true provision lies.

A Battle Between Good and Evil

What's unfolding isn't just gridlock; it's a battle between good and evil. America has drifted from its foundation in Jesus Christ for decades. We've taught our kids that truth is relative, celebrated sin as freedom, and preached tolerance so loudly we can't stand for what's right anymore. Over-tolerance has become our idol, turning conviction into cruelty and truth into "hate speech." We need to rediscover our backbone.

Faith: The Backbone We've Forgotten

This country's backbone wasn't ever political ideology or cultural conformity, it was faith in the living God.

Young Voices Rising: A Turning Point?

Enter a movement awakening the younger generation. Charlie Kirk's leadership through Turning Point USA is drawing young people back to the public square and, often, back to faith. His message that courage and conviction matter is resonating. Through conferences, podcasts, and student chapters, he's reminding millions that faith, freedom, and service aren't outdated; they're the foundation of a moral nation.

Alabama Leaders Speak Up

Alabama Republican leaders have reminded D.C. that service to the people comes before politics. Key figures have spoken out against using citizens' well-being as bargaining chips. U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville have voiced similar frustrations, calling for principle over posturing.

Godly Leadership: What We're Starving For

Godly leadership is what this nation craves. It's time for leaders to seek wisdom before authority, humility before fame, and prayer before policy. Proverbs 29:2 rings true: "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." America needs leaders who kneel before God so they can stand before the people.

Soldiers in the Crossfire: A Shameful Sight

Yet, as politicians bicker, our soldiers and their families are caught in the crossfire. Those willing to defend us are now tightening their belts. Some military families are waiting on back pay, skipping essentials, and visiting food banks. A country that funds every luxury project but can't feed its defenders has lost its way. We're starving those who protect our freedom.

Compassion Steps Up: Faith in Action

While government fails, ordinary Americans rise. Christian-owned businesses offer free meals to furloughed workers. Grocery stores and local restaurants donate to food drives. A construction company quietly paid its subcontractors. Churches open their doors for relief, proving compassion doesn't need permission. This is godly leadership: faith in action, asking not, "What do I gain?" but "Whom can I serve?"

The Choice Before Us: Word or World?

Every American faces a choice beyond party lines. Will we live by the Word or the world? The world promises comfort but leaves us empty. The Word promises struggle but leads to life. We can't hold the Bible in one hand and bow to culture with the other.

Reopen America's Heart

Let's return to an America that humbles itself before God, honors family, values life, defends the innocent, and speaks truth with love. The shutdown may end, but the deeper question remains: will America reopen her heart to Jesus Christ? If we choose to return, every closed office and empty paycheck will serve a greater purpose. God allows the lights to go out so we remember who truly brings the dawn.

Auburn's Coaching Carousel: Who's Next After Freeze?

Well, ChumCity folks, it's official: Auburn's parted ways with Hugh Freeze after that downright dreadful loss to Kentucky. Ouch. Defensive coordinator DJ Durkin is stepping up as interim coach for the last three games, but the real action is happening behind the scenes: the search for the next head honcho!

So, who could be pacing the sidelines at Jordan-Hare next season? Here are six names making waves:

Jon Sumrall: The Group of 5 Guru

Word on the street is Sumrall's the frontrunner. This guy's been crushing it! He turned Troy into a Sun Belt powerhouse and now has Tulane buzzing. With SEC experience at Kentucky and Ole Miss (and playing days at Kentucky!), he knows the landscape. Success, SEC ties, and the Auburn spirit? Sounds like a touchdown!

James Franklin: Penn State's Proven Winner

Okay, so Franklin's out at Penn State after a rough patch. But let's not forget the wins! He took the Nittany Lions to the national semis and racked up 11+ win seasons four times! Auburn needs stability after a couple of misses, and Franklin brings a solid foundation of consistent success.

Eli Drinkwitz: Mizzou's Miracle Worker

Drinkwitz took a struggling Missouri program and transformed them into an SEC contender! Double-digit wins, bowl victories – he's the real deal. He even had a quality control stint at Auburn way back when. Fans would be all in on this hire! The big question: can Auburn lure him away from Columbia?

Kenny Dillingham: ASU's Rising Star

Dillingham inherited a mess at Arizona State but turned it into a title-winning machine! He even gave Texas a run for their money in the playoffs. Plus, he was Auburn's OC back in 2019! Young, exciting, and a proven winner – nabbing Dillingham would be a huge win for the Tigers.

DJ Durkin: The In-House Option

Durkin's already leading the charge as interim coach. His defense has been a bright spot this season. If he can pull off wins against Vanderbilt AND Alabama, there's a solid chance he could snag the permanent gig. It's not the flashiest choice, but it would keep a talented roster (especially on D) intact.

Dabo Swinney: The Hail Mary

Okay, this is a long shot, folks. But hear us out! Swinney's personality is a perfect fit for Auburn, and things might be cooling off for him at Clemson. He's an Alabama guy at heart, but maybe he's got a chip on his shoulder after not being considered for the Crimson Tide job. It can't hurt to pick up the phone, right?

ChumCity will be keeping our eyes on this one, for sure! What do you think, Chumblers? Who should be the next head coach at Auburn? Let us know in the comments!

Big Wheels Keep on Turnin': Truckers Endorse Wes Allen for Lt. Gov!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity citizens! The Alabama Trucking Association's TRUK PAC just threw its weight behind Wes Allen for the state's next Lieutenant Governor. And they ain't truckin' around!

Why Allen?

According to TRUK PAC Chairman Greg Brown, Allen gets it. He understands that Alabama's economy rolls on the back of a strong trucking industry – an industry that employs a whopping 132,000 Alabamians. Brown emphasized the need for leaders like Allen who support lower taxes, less red tape, and a strong pro-business environment.

Allen's Response

Allen, currently the Secretary of State, is "honored" by the endorsement. He acknowledges that truckers are the backbone, ensuring everything from food to medical supplies makes it where it needs to go. He emphasized his pride in working for these "hardworking men and women."

The Road Ahead

Allen announced his bid for Lt. Governor back in February 2025. The Republican primary race, slated for May 19, 2026, already features a crowded field, including Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate and former Alabama quarterback AJ McCarron. Get ready for a rumble!

Sad News: Former DA Graham Passes Away

Colbert County has lost a respected figure. Former District Attorney Bryce U. Graham Jr. passed away on Sunday, reportedly from a heart attack. He was 66.

Sudden Loss Impacts Judge Self Trial

Graham's passing has rippled through the legal community, particularly affecting the trial of suspended Lauderdale County Circuit Judge Gilbert "Gil" Self. Graham was a vital member of Self's defense team.

Trial Postponed

Judge Tim Jolley has ordered a delay to allow the defense time to adjust. The trial, already in its third week in Florence, will be rescheduled.

Self's Charges

Judge Self faces serious accusations: 16 counts of using his office for personal gain, plus perjury and false representation charges. These charges stem from funds from the 11th Judicial Administration Fund and the Lauderdale County Law Library Fund, both of which Self oversaw. Self maintains his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges.

Defense Strategy & Key Questions

During cross-examination, Graham had pressed for clarity, questioning who the victims of the alleged crimes were. He even asked a prosecution witness to identify a victim in the courtroom, a moment halted by Judge Jolley, who reminded the jury that the government was considered the victim.

Graham also highlighted that Self repaid the $140,000 in question and had stated no intent for personal gain during the audit. Questions also arose about the timing of the investigation and whether other judges were facing similar scrutiny.

Trial Recap

Jury selection consumed the first week, drawing the largest jury pool ever in Lauderdale County. The second week involved opening statements and prosecution witnesses. Now, the trial is paused in the wake of Graham's unexpected passing.

What's Next?

The trial will resume with cross-examination of prosecution witnesses. Defense motions to dismiss and presentation of defense witnesses will follow, potentially leading to rebuttal witnesses, closing arguments, and jury deliberations.

Galaxy of Lights Eyes the Crown!

Huntsville Botanical Garden's dazzling Galaxy of Lights is back and brighter than ever, setting its sights on the coveted No. 1 spot after two years of runner-up glory! Can 2025 be the year it finally snags the title?

Your Vote Counts!

The polls are officially open, and your daily vote can make all the difference! Let's rally the ChumCity crew and help Galaxy of Lights shine the brightest in the USA TODAY's 10 Best Travel Awards, just in time for its epic 30th-anniversary bash.

A North Alabama Holiday Tradition

"We were blown away by the incredible support last year," exclaimed Sue Wagner, CEO of Huntsville Botanical Garden. "This year, we're aiming for the top spot!" Galaxy of Lights is up against some stiff competition, but with your help, we can make it happen.

What's New This Year?

This year's Galaxy of Lights is packed with fresh experiences! Stroll through the enchanting Icicle Forest, hop aboard the Evergreen Express, indulge in s'mores at The Gathering, sip hot cocoa from the Cocoa Castle, and wander through the magically lit Purdy Butterfly House.

Holiday Magic for Everyone!

Galaxy of Lights has become a cherished holiday tradition in North Alabama. This 1.5-mile spectacular boasts choreographed music, interactive displays, walking nights, driving nights, and even special evenings for our furry friends! Let's make this year's Galaxy of Lights the best one yet!

Gamecocks Score a Major Coaching Addition!

Big news out of Jacksonville State! Remember that buzz about the Gamecocks trying to snag former Alabama defensive guru and Tennessee head coach Jeremy Pruitt as an analyst? Well, it's official – the NCAA has given the green light!

Pruitt's Back in the Game

Pruitt, still under that six-year show-cause order due to recruiting violations at Tennessee, needed special permission to join JSU. He even took legal action, seeking an injunction to clear the way. JSU President Don Killingsworth and AD Greg Seitz threw their weight behind the effort, requesting the NCAA grant them the go-ahead.

NCAA Gives the Thumbs Up!

"We applaud the intentional effort that JSU put into its proposed plan," the NCAA stated, highlighting JSU's commitment to compliance. It seems like everyone's happy.

Restrictions Apply

Don't expect Pruitt on the recruiting trail or on the sidelines just yet. He'll have limited involvement, and JSU is implementing a strict monitoring program, keeping the compliance staff, head coach, AD, and even the university president involved. The program will have to report with the NCAA.

A Win for JSU

Despite the restrictions, landing a defensive mind like Pruitt is a huge win for the Gamecocks. Plus, it's a step on Pruitt's road back to major college football. Exciting times ahead in Jacksonville!

Alabama Gets a Biotech Boost for Agriculture and Forestry!

Governor Kay Ivey just dropped over $2 million on HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, using the Alabama Research and Development Advancement Fund! This awesome investment will fuel three exciting projects, all aimed at making Alabama's agriculture and forestry sectors even stronger using the power of biotechnology.

Auburn University and the University of Alabama are also getting some love in this round, as announced by ADECA. Gov. Ivey said, "Researchers at these institutions are rockstars when it comes to innovation, improving lives both here in Alabama and beyond." She added that these research projects cover everything from groundbreaking technology to preserving our precious forests.

TRIALS: Testing New Tech on Alabama Farms!

HudsonAlpha, along with agtech startups Chonex and SouthGen Solutions, is launching a cool two-year pilot program called TRIALS (Technology & Research for Innovation Ag Leaders). Led by HudsonAlpha's Josh Clevenger, PhD, TRIALS wants to speed up the adoption of new agricultural technologies right here in Alabama's Wiregrass region.

Farmers can be hesitant to try new stuff because of tight profit margins and environmental risks. TRIALS tackles this head-on by connecting growers with researchers and agtech companies to run side-by-side field trials. They'll be tracking yields, soil health, and economic results! Expect innovations like Chonex’s StrongSoil® bio-fertilizer and SouthGen’s precision agriculture tools to get a close look.

Supercharging Alabama Crops with Biotech!

Kankshita Swaminathan, PhD, another HudsonAlpha superstar, is leading a $1.87 million initiative to make Alabama's crops even better using advanced plant genetics and biotechnology. This project is supported by ADECA, Mars Inc., and the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI).

The goal? Develop plant transformation technologies that create improved crop varieties perfectly suited to Alabama's environment. This means more resilient, higher-yielding, and more sustainable crops for our farmers! Plus, programs like the Genes & Greens summer academy and hands-on research gigs will get students hyped about plant science, biotech, and real-world lab skills.

Protecting Alabama's Wild Forests!

HudsonAlpha is teaming up with the Paint Rock Forest Research Center to safeguard Alabama's multi-billion-dollar forestry industry. Led by Jeremy Schmutz, the team at the HudsonAlpha Genome Sequencing Center will dive into the genetic diversity of at least 10 tree species (with the potential to expand to 90!), looking for traits that make them resistant to pests, diseases, and environmental changes. The project will focus on species like elms, ash, black walnut, and shortleaf pine.

This project will not only support local forest businesses and landowners but also solidify Alabama's spot as a national leader in conservation genomics and forest biotechnology!

HudsonAlpha President Neil Lamb, PhD, is stoked about the grants, calling them a "powerful vote of confidence" in HudsonAlpha's ability to innovate through collaboration.