ChumCity News Roundup - Stuff You Missed!

7. Gas Prices and Blame Games: Is Trump to blame for high gas prices? Some say yes, pointing to the Iranian conflict. But hold on! aldontcom says the cheapest gas in Alabama is in Chambers County at $3.68. However, because Leada Gore reported it, you know that has to be fake news.

6. Teacher Troubles: A teacher at Journey Middle School in Madison City, Logan Edward Thomas, got busted! He's facing 10 counts of possessing child sexual abuse material, plus one count of online solicitation. Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force got him.

5. Britt's Big Push: Senator Katie Britt is on a mission! She wants full funding for Homeland Security before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which's gonna be huge! 5 million fans are expected, and it lines up with our nation's 250th anniversary. Side note: The House just passed a short-term extension of FISA Section 702 spy powers.

4. Boebert's Bold Question: Remember Lauren Boebert? The congresswoman previously caught getting handsy at a public event? She's now slamming sexual misconduct on Capitol Hill with the zinger, "Why is everybody so horny here?" She suggests everyone "go to church, find Jesus." Oh, and an unnamed senator is under investigation by the Senate Ethics Committee. Yikes!

3. Senate Race Heats Up: The latest Alabama GOP U.S. Senate primary poll shows Barry Moore widening the gap between himself and Steve Marshall! Moore's up 34%-16%, and a hypothetical runoff gives him a 47%-27% win. Shows you the power of a Trump endorsement and a pile of campaign ads.

2. Tuberville's Tough Talk: Governor-elect and Senator Tommy Tuberville is promising to clean up crime in Montgomery and other Alabama cities if elected governor. Declaring he won't let Alabamians "live in a war zone," and saying, "we are not going to let the animals run the zoo." He is also calling out Republicans in Congress as embarrassing.

1. Iran Tensions: Despite the House failing to "end the war," Trump's predicting a quick end to the Iran conflict with a possible uranium deal. The naval blockade is apparently working, oil prices are dropping, stocks are up, and U.S.-Iran talks could be happening soon in Islamabad! Of course, a military advisor to Iran's supreme leader is threatening to sink U.S. ships. So there's that.

Bonus: Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News. You can catch his talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Bama Alum Busted in Wild Loan Scheme!

Former Alabama Crimson Tide football player Luther Davis is in hot water, facing serious charges of wire fraud and identity theft! Apparently, this isn't your average playbook violation...

Wigs, Fake IDs, and $20 Million?!

Davis, a key player on the 2009 national championship team, is accused of impersonating three different NFL players to secure a staggering $20 million in loans. Talk about a Hail Mary gone wrong!

Who Were the Impersonated Players?

The alleged victims include Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., former Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku, and Green Bay Packers safety (and fellow Bama alum) Xavier McKinney. None of them authorized the loans, and fake email accounts were created without their knowledge, according to court docs.

The Details Are Insane!

Davis, along with alleged accomplice CJ Evins, reportedly concocted "fabricated personal financial statements" and other bogus documents. But the real kicker? Davis apparently showed up to loan closings "dressed in disguise and impersonated the players," even rocking a wig and makeup to pose as Njoku during a video conference!

$20 Million in Fraudulent Loans?

Prosecutors say there are 13 similar situations, totaling just under $20 million in fraudulent loans. This story just keeps getting crazier!

Hoover Mayor Derzis Throws Support Behind Sen. Waggoner

Hoover's own Mayor Nick Derzis is backing State Senator Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills) for another term in the Alabama Senate! Derzis is citing Waggoner's long history of leadership and influence on the entire Birmingham metro area.

Derzis Praises Waggoner's Impact

In a statement, Derzis emphasized Waggoner's effectiveness in the Legislature and his key role in fostering growth across the region.

"A Trusted Friend"

"Jabo Waggoner has consistently delivered meaningful results that have strengthened Jefferson and Shelby counties," Derzis stated. He also noted Waggoner's role in championing UAB's expansion, driving economic development, and securing infrastructure investments.

Derzis emphasized that much of Birmingham and Hoover's progress can be directly attributed to Waggoner's hard work. "We are fortunate to have one of the most effective legislators in Alabama history representing us," Derzis added. "I am proud to endorse Jabo Waggoner for another term. He is both a proven leader and a trusted friend." Derzis encourages residents to support Waggoner in the upcoming election.

Derzis' Background

Derzis, elected mayor in 2025, previously served in Hoover's Police Department, including over two decades as police chief. His priorities as mayor include public safety, infrastructure, commercial revitalization, and community partnerships.

AHSAA Changes Course on School Choice Athletes!

Big news for Alabama high school athletes! The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) is changing its tune regarding student-athletes using school choice funds. Executive Director Heath Harmon announced the association will comply with the new state law, meaning no more forced sitting-out periods!

What's the CHOOSE Act?

In 2024, the CHOOSE Act brought education savings accounts to students opting for alternative schooling or attending schools outside their assigned zones.

Legal Battles and "Let the Kids Play"

Remember that lawsuit Governor Ivey and House Speaker Ledbetter filed last September? It was all about the AHSAA trying to make student-athletes transferring with CHOOSE Act funds sit out a year. A judge stepped in, and lawmakers later passed the "Let the Kids Play Act," allowing lawsuits against the AHSAA under certain circumstances.

AHSAA Responds

Now, the AHSAA is saying they're on board. Harmon stated they've removed CHOOSE Act funds from the definition of financial aid, meaning no student will be benched just for receiving these funds.

Important Note:

Heads up, though! All other AHSAA eligibility rules regarding transfers and residency still apply. This is just regarding CHOOSE Act funds, not a free pass to jump ship.

Alabama House Race Heats Up: Lomax and Brooks Spar Over Taxes

The gloves are off in the Republican primary battle for Alabama House District 20! State Rep. James Lomax and former Congressman Mo Brooks are locked in a heated exchange, slinging accusations about each other's tax records. Buckle up, ChumCity, this one's getting spicy!

Lomax Pounces on Tax Day

On Tax Day, Lomax's campaign went for the jugular, painting a stark contrast between the candidates. They touted Lomax's support for over $1.5 billion in tax cuts during his first term, while slamming Brooks' supposed history of tax increases back in his Alabama Legislature days.

"The contrast couldn't be clearer," Lomax declared. He positions himself as the champion of keeping money in the pockets of District 20 families, while branding Brooks a "serial tax-raiser." The Lomax camp is digging deep, citing votes from the 80s tied to tax hikes and revenue measures. Ouch!

Brooks Fires Back

Brooks isn't taking these accusations lying down. He's calling the claims "lying" and "misleading." He's waving the flag of "tax fighter" high, pointing to rankings from national and state organizations as proof. He's boasting about being the "number one tax fighter and family income protector in Alabama history!"

Brooks insists he fought past tax increases and even helped secure a $2.5 trillion income tax cut for American families while in Congress. As for those votes Lomax is bringing up? Brooks argues some are being twisted, especially those local fees tied to services. "I was protecting my citizens," he claims.

Experience in the Ring

Lomax is a relative newcomer, elected in 2022 and already holding a leadership role. Brooks, on the other hand, is a seasoned vet, having served in the Alabama House, on the Madison County Commission, and in Congress.

The Bottom Line

This tax battle is shaping up to be a defining theme in this closely watched primary race. With the Republican primary just around the corner on May 19, expect the mudslinging to continue!

Courtesy of 256 Today.

Sweet Scoop Saturday in Inverness Corners!

Hey Birmingham Chumsters! Get ready for a sugar rush this Saturday because Baskin-Robbins is throwing a Customer Appreciation Day bash at their brand-spankin' new Inverness Corners location.

Dollar Scoops and More!

Mark your calendars for April 18th, from 12 PM to 6 PM, at 940 Inverness Corners. You can snag scoops for just $1.31 all day long! Talk about a sweet deal.

Groovy Tunes and Prizes Galore

Besides the crazy cheap ice cream, there'll be a live DJ spinning tunes, a prize wheel loaded with goodies, and sweet Baskin-Robbins merch to snag.

Mayoral Appearance and Ribbon Cutting

To officially welcome the new shop, the Hoover mayor will be there for a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Come be a part of the celebration!

Cool Off and Celebrate!

It's the perfect excuse to treat yourself (and the family!) to some ice cream and celebrate the arrival of a new ChumCity sweet spot. See you there!

Tigers Add Size in Transfer Portal!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! Bruce Pearl and the Auburn Tigers just snagged a HUGE addition to their roster. Center Bukky Oboye from Santa Clara is heading to the Plains!

Welcome Bukky!

Oboye, a standout for the Broncos, started nearly every game for their impressive 26-9 squad that made it all the way to the NCAA Tournament last season. What's even better? He's got TWO YEARS of eligibility left! This isn't just a quick fix; this could be a game-changer for Auburn's future.

Pearl's Pumped!

"We are extremely excited to welcome Bukky Oboye into the Auburn Family," exclaimed Steven Pearl. "He's one of the most physically gifted prospects you'll find – an elite runner and leaper with rare size!" Pearl raved about Oboye's rim protection on both offense and defense.

Oboye's Stats

As a redshirt sophomore, Oboye led Santa Clara with 40 blocks while dropping in 7.9 points and grabbing 4.1 boards per game.

Growth Potential!

"What stands out even more than his tools is his growth," Pearl added. "He's shown improvements every single day, and the more he plays the better he becomes. If Bukky stays on the path he's been on, he has a chance to be a very special player on the Plains."

Size Matters!

Clearly, Pearl is prioritizing size this offseason. Remember Narcisse Ngoy, the seven-footer from France? Adding Oboye means Auburn now boasts TWO players over seven feet!

Pearl's Plan

It's gonna be wild to see how Pearl utilizes these giants in his second season as head coach. Get ready for some serious rim protection, Auburn fans!

Alabama Turkey Season Update: Time to Adjust Your Tactics!

After three weeks of primo weather, Alabama's turkey hunters have been scoring big! We've heard the usual stories: birds beelining to calls, and those cagey toms outsmarting even the saltiest veterans.

But with the season nearing its midpoint, it's time to shake things up. The trees are almost fully leafed out, making it tougher to hear those gobbles. Plus, many of the eager two-year-olds have already met their match.

Veteran Hunters Weigh In

We tapped two turkey hunting gurus for their mid-season strategies: Corky Pugh (former Director of Alabama's Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division) and Larry Norton (two-time World Champion caller and long-time guide).

Turkey Behavior Changes

"It's all about what the turkeys are doing," says Pugh. "The hens start ditching the gobblers. Suddenly, that old tom is solo, making him potentially more vulnerable." He also mentioned a mid-season lull in gobbling. "Turkeys go through a lull... I think we're in that lull about now."

And let's not forget: turkeys learn fast! "A messed-with turkey is a lot harder to kill," Pugh emphasizes. Those birds on public land that are deep in the woods? Untouched.

Adapting to the Foliage

Full foliage means muffled sounds. "When the leaves get on the trees, you can’t even hear the turkeys from the road,” Pugh said.

Pugh's response? Dial back the calling and amp up the patience. “Limited calling, sitting still and being patient," he said. "It’s not the gear you have; it’s patience and perseverance."

He also suggests later hunts. "Many of the turkey hunters I talk to say they are killing birds between 9 and 11, when everybody else has gone to get a biscuit.”

Decoys and Location, Location, Location

Norton advises caution with strutting decoys this late in the game. "Later in the season, you're liable to run off more turkeys than get to come to it. I just use hen decoys."

He also notes that gobblers will shift closer to nesting hens. "You have to get in areas where you're seeing tracks and signs, and you have to be real patient." When they're silent, he heads to known turkey hangouts: "I set up and do a little calling and a lot of waiting."

The Power of Stealth

Norton's guiding experience taught him the value of patience. When a dominant gobbler moves out, the other toms get antsy. He advocates for blind calling in areas with tracks and strut marks. "You can move around and change calls... and you won't get busted."

Final Thoughts

Alabama's turkey season runs through May 8. Good luck out there, ChumCity hunters!

Alabama Politics: A Year of Hot Races (and Some Easy Wins)

This year promises to be a political rollercoaster, with some truly nail-biting contests shaping up. But here in the Heart of Dixie, only one congressional seat is looking like a real barnburner. The other six incumbents? Expect them to cruise to victory, facing either zero opposition or opponents who barely register a blip.

The Incumbency Advantage: Almost Unbeatable

Let's be honest, unseating a sitting congressperson these days is like trying to catch smoke. The winning percentage for incumbents hovers around a staggering 95%. Even the old Soviet Politburo couldn't boast numbers that good!

The First District Frenzy

The open First District seat is where the action is. This newly drawn district is a Republican stronghold – arguably too much so, thanks to some federal judge meddling that seems to prioritize certain voters over others (we're not naming names!). This district throws together Mobile/Baldwin County Republicans with those from the Wiregrass, creating a potentially volatile mix.

The seat's open because the current occupant, Barry Moore, is chasing a Senate seat. Now, Jerry Carl, a former congressman from the Mobile/Baldwin area, is battling State Representative Rhett Marques for the spot. It's shaping up to be a clash between coastal and Wiregrass Republicans.

Can Marques Repeat Moore's Success?

Moore, hailing from the Wiregrass, energized voters in that region like nobody's business. The question is, can Marques pull off the same trick? With Fort Rucker and agriculture playing such a crucial role, the Wiregrass vote is critical.

Meanwhile, in the Second...

Shomari Figures easily snagged the federally redrawn Second District two years ago, and expect a repeat performance this year. He's hit the ground running in Congress, a natural given his impressive resume and deep-rooted Democratic pedigree. Born to legislative legends Michael and Vivian Figures, he's even reaching across the aisle, securing a spot on the Republican-heavy Agriculture Committee.

Sewell's Power Play

Our senior Democratic Congresswoman Terri Sewell is a force to be reckoned with. Fifteen years in Congress, leadership positions within the House Democratic Caucus – if the Democrats take back the House this fall, Sewell will be sitting pretty, ready to wield significant power for Alabama.

A House Flip Incoming?

It's not just wishful thinking; historical trends suggest a Democratic takeover of the House is highly probable. A sitting president's party often loses ground in the midterms, and the current Republican majority is razor-thin. If the Dems do regain control, Sewell will be in a prime position. And even if the Republicans buck the trend, Alabama still boasts a powerful congressional delegation.

The Old Guard

• Representative Robert Aderholt (Fourth District): A 30-year veteran, possibly on track to become Alabama's most powerful congressman ever. He currently chairs the House Appropriations Committee.
• Representative Mike Rogers (Third District): 23 years under his belt, chairing the crucial Armed Services Committee.
• Representative Gary Palmer (Sixth District): 11 years representing the conservative Sixth District with distinction.
• Representative Dale Strong (Fifth District): A relative newcomer (3 years), making waves in the House GOP leadership and with the White House.

Until next week, folks!

Joe Wheeler State Park Gets a Rad New Playground!

Get ready to play, folks! Joe Wheeler State Park just unveiled a brand-spankin' new, totally accessible playground, making it even easier for families to have a blast in the Tennessee Valley. This is all part of some sweet upgrades happening across Alabama’s awesome state parks system.

Ribbon-Cutting Fun

State and local bigwigs gathered to snip the ribbon on this fantastic project. The playground is designed so kids of all abilities can join in the fun! Park officials are stoked to enhance one of the park's most popular spots.

What They're Saying

"This isn't just a playground; it's a place for families to connect and make memories!" said Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps. He’s super pumped about offering a cool, inclusive space where everyone can explore and have a rad time.

Money, Money, Money!

Major kudos to the Alabama State Parks Foundation, the Daniel Foundation, and the Thompson Foundation! These guys chipped in some serious dough to make this playground a reality.

Big Thanks!

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship gave a huge shout-out to the foundations for their generosity. Their support is helping create awesome adventures in all of Alabama's state parks.

More Upgrades on the Way!

The Foundation has also supported recent upgrades like a playground at Rickwood Caverns State Park, snazzy patio furniture at Wind Creek and Lakepoint state parks, and accessibility equipment at Gulf State Park. How cool is that?

Looking Ahead

This awesome playground is just one piece of a larger puzzle. Alabama State Parks are getting some serious love, thanks to an $85 million bond approved by voters back in 2022. Coming soon: a new lodge at Cheaha State Park, spruced-up renovations at Lake Lurleen State Park, and a sweet new campground at Gulf State Park.

Joe Wheeler is Booming!

Besides the playground, Joe Wheeler has also seen recent lodge renovations, new windows and doors, a roof replacement, and a beach pavilion constructed in 2024. These parks are getting some serious love and attention!

Local Love

State Rep. Ben Harrison chimed in that Joe Wheeler State Park is a premier outdoor destination and he thinks the new playground will be enjoyed by children today, tomorrow and long into the future.

Alabama State Parks: The Place To Be!

Alabama's State Parks system includes 21 parks spanning more than 50,000 acres statewide. Get out there and explore!