Get Ready to Explore More of Jefferson County!

ChumCity adventurers, rejoice! The Red Rock Trail System's interactive map just got a major upgrade, and it's bursting with new trails to explore! Thanks to a partnership with the City of Hoover, a whopping 15 miles of fresh trails have been added, bringing the total system to a staggering 175 miles!

Hoover's Trail Bonanza!

What's new in Hoover? Get ready to roam these fantastic additions:

• Loch Haven Park and Nature Trail
• Black Creek Mountain Bike Park
• Cahaba Riverchase Greenway and Nature Trail
• Hoover East Nature Trail
• Inverness Nature Park

Mapping Made Easy

The updated "Find-a-Trail" map isn't just about quantity; it's about quality too! It's been redesigned to be even more user-friendly, with filters for different trail types (greenways, nature trails, bike lanes, you name it!). You can even search by surface material and location. Talk about convenient!

The Future is Bright (and Full of Trails!)

The map also teases 19 miles of planned and in-progress trails, giving you a sneak peek at the Red Rock Trail System's exciting future. It's all part of the long-term vision to create a 750-mile network connecting communities and outdoor havens across the region.

Hoover's All In!

Mayor Nick Derzis shared, "Hoover is proud to be part of the continued growth of the Red Rock Trail System... Partnerships like this with Freshwater Land Trust help connect our parks and green spaces to a broader regional network that benefits all of Jefferson County.”

Get Out There and Explore!

As Anna Massa Pires, FLT’s Red Rock Trail System Coordinator, puts it, "The new Red Rock Interactive Map makes it easier than ever for people to explore the trails and parks throughout Jefferson County... We hope this will help users discover new trails and experience more of the incredible outdoor spaces we’re fortunate to have in our region.”

Auburn's Koivun: Golf's Next Big Thing?

Auburn Tigers golf phenom Jackson Koivun is making waves! He recently joined an elite group including Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, notching his 10th collegiate win. The buzz around him is HUGE, even reaching Alabama's most celebrated PGA Tour alum.

Justin Thomas Chimes In

After Koivun's latest victory, Crimson Tide legend Justin Thomas was quizzed about the Auburn superstar at the RBC Heritage. Despite the intense rivalry, Thomas had nothing but praise.

Thomas Impressed

"I haven't played a ton with Jackson, but enough," Thomas shared, recalling practice rounds at Oakmont. "I remember thinking, this kid is really good. He seems to have a great head on his shoulders and approaches things the right way."

High Praise Indeed

Thomas added, "He's playing unbelievably. It would be easy to get complacent at that high a level, but he's clearly not. And whenever he plays in professional events, he's doing really well too. It's just a matter of time for him. Even though he is an Auburn dude, I'm happy for him."

Koivun's Dominance

Koivun has racked up five tournament wins this season and is aiming to lead the top-ranked Auburn squad to their second national title in just three years. Keep an eye on this rising star!

Buy Verified Cash App Account: Safe Guide for Gamers & Businesses
Email: contact.smmproit@gmail.com
Telegram: @smmproit
Whatsapp:+1(812)528-8960
https://smmproit.com/product/b....uy-verified-cash-app

If you run a gaming business or work as a game host, you already know how important smooth financial transactions are. That’s where cash app accounts come into play. They make sending and receiving money fast, simple, and reliable.

But here’s the big question: should you use a verified cash app account or not? Let’s break it down in a simple way.

Buy Verified Cash App Account: Safe, Legal & Smart Guide
Email: contact.smmproit@gmail.com
Telegram: @smmproit
Whatsapp:+1(812)528-8960
https://smmproit.com/product/b....uy-verified-cash-app

If you’ve searched for “buy verified cash app account,” you’re not alone. Many people—especially gamers, creators, and online sellers—want faster access, higher transaction limits, and smoother financial transactions.

But here’s the real question:
Is buying a verified cash app account the best move… or a risky shortcut?

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

How to Create and Use a Verified Cash App Account Safely
Email: contact.smmproit@gmail.com
Telegram: @smmproit
Whatsapp:+1(812)528-8960
https://smmproit.com/product/b....uy-verified-cash-app

If you’re running a gaming business or handling online payments, you’ve probably heard about cash app accounts. But here’s the big question—how do you use them safely and effectively without risking your money or your reputation?

Let’s break it down in a simple, human way.

Lane Kiffin Slams SEC Schedule Shake-Up

Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin isn't feeling the SEC's proposed 9-game conference schedule. He thinks it's a bad move until the College Football Playoff selection gets a serious overhaul, including automatic bids and smarter ways to factor in strength of schedule.

Bama's Brain Gain? Faculty Numbers Tell a Different Story

Despite claims of an anti-DEI brain drain at the University of Alabama, the numbers paint a different picture! Full-time faculty jumped from 1,441 in 2018 to a solid 1,755 in 2025, with tenured positions also on the rise. Seems like that 'brain drain' narrative might be a bit overblown.

Penny Pinching No More: Alabama to Round Up or Down

Goodbye, pennies! The Alabama State Senate just approved a bill that lets businesses round cash transactions to the nearest nickel, putting an end to those annoying penny shortages.

Prayers and Pledges: Possible Changes Coming to Alabama Schools

Big changes could be on the horizon for Alabama schools. A proposed constitutional amendment would require schools to allow student-led prayers and the Pledge of Allegiance daily (with opt-out options, of course) if voters give the thumbs up.

Grocery Tax Holiday: Save Some Dough, Alabama!

Get ready to save at the grocery store! Alabama is nixing the state grocery tax for two glorious months – May 1st to June 30th. Plus, lawmakers are letting you deduct up to $1,000 in overtime pay on your state income taxes. Sweet deal!

Alabama Lawmakers Play it Cool with the Budget

State Rep. Rex Reynolds says Alabama is taking a fiscally cautious approach as the 2026 session wraps up. They're keeping spending growth under 1% for the 2027 General Fund, even with strong revenues. Smart move, prepping for those expected dips in the future.

Trump Issues Warning on Iran Ceasefire

Former President Donald Trump issued a stark warning regarding the Iran ceasefire. He stated that if the agreement isn't honored, the "shootin'" starts, only "bigger and better and stronger." U.S. military forces remain deployed until full compliance.

Hear More from Dale Jackson

For more Alabama insights, tune in to Dale Jackson, Yellowhammer News thought leader, weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.

Moore Digs in Heels on ICE Funding Amid Shutdown Showdown

Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise), who's also eyeing a Senate seat, is putting his foot down. He's urging Congress: no deal to end the partial government shutdown until Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) gets fully funded!

Dems Demand Reforms

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is stuck in funding limbo because Dems are pushing for major ICE reforms.

GOP Split on Strategy?

While Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune seem open to a deal that funds ICE and Border Patrol later through a GOP-only reconciliation bill, Moore wants to flip the script.

Moore's Plan: Reconciliation First

Moore told "The Yaffee Program" he wants the reconciliation package passed first. This is to guarantee the Senate parliamentarian doesn't block the funding down the line.

He believes "[...]we can get some of the SAVE AMERICA Act as well as funding for CBP and ICE" through reconciliation.

Conservatives vs. Leadership?

This stance could put Moore at odds with Speaker Johnson, but he argues it's the best way. He fears the Senate parliamentarian might kibosh the funding.

House Freedom Caucus Weighs In

The House Freedom Caucus echoes this sentiment, calling for all DHS funding via reconciliation.

Shutdown Blame Game

Moore is clear: Democrats are to blame for the shutdown.

"I just can’t believe that the Democrats seriously want to just open the American borders again," he stated, promising to fight any attempts to continue current border policies.

Regions Arena: Mobile's Exciting New Downtown Venue!

Get ready, ChumCity! The wraps are off, and we finally know the name: "Regions Arena"! A major countdown culminated in a dramatic tarp drop, revealing the title sponsor for our brand-new downtown venue on Tuesday. Expect concerts, sporting events, and even pro hockey, injecting a whole lot of energy into the Gulf Coast!

A Transformative Moment

The announcement, held right in front of the arena-in-progress, marks a huge milestone. City officials are calling it one of the most transformative developments in Mobile's history. Regions Bank snagged the naming rights for this awesome 10,000-seat facility, slated to open in early 2027.

Oak View Group Partnership

The project's a team effort with Oak View Group (OVG), who will manage the arena. They also handle the Mobile Convention Center and Saenger Theatre, and they helped make the multi-year naming rights deal happen.

More Than Just an Arena

Regions will also be the official banking partner for the Convention Center, Saenger Theatre, and Mobile's future pro hockey team (hitting the ice in 2027-28!). City officials see the arena as a long-term gathering spot and an economic engine for the region. Think concerts, family shows, sports, plus support for local businesses and job creation!

What They're Saying

Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis emphasized that the partnership showcases Mobile's future and the strength of a local institution. "Regions Arena will be a place where Mobilians will gather for generations," he said. Regions reps echoed that sentiment, highlighting their deep roots in the area and continued commitment to our community.

A Growing Entertainment Destination

Oak View Group believes the arena will bring tons of new events and excitement to Mobile, positioning us as a rising star for live entertainment in the Southeast. The venue is designed to handle major touring acts while celebrating Mobile's unique culture, including our amazing Mardi Gras traditions.

Year-Round Fun

Expect Regions Arena to be a year-round destination, bringing locals and visitors together, boosting entertainment options, and supporting continued growth along the Gulf Coast. Exciting times ahead, ChumCity!

Hot Takes from the Deep South!

Here's the latest buzz from across Alabama and beyond, served up ChumCity style!

Georgia Goes Redder

Clay Fuller is heading to Congress! He snagged the seat formerly held by Marjorie Taylor Greene in Georgia's 14th, solidifying the GOP grip on the House.

Hall of Shame at Motorsports Hall of Fame

Another one bites the dust! Karen Lakey, ex-accounts manager at Alabama's International Motorsports Hall of Fame, is in hot water for allegedly pocketing a cool $159K. Seems like corruption's got a need for speed!

Swalwell's Swirling Scandal

U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell is facing some serious heat! Accusations of misconduct towards female staffers are flying, and some Dems are saying he's gotta go. Could this sink his ship?

Alabama's Sex Ed: Back to Basics?

Alabama's taking a step back in sex ed, focusing on abstinence-only instruction. No talk about birth control allowed! What do you think about this blast from the past?

Trump's College Sports Playbook

Trump's taking a page from Tommy Tuberville's playbook for his college sports overhaul. Tuberville's Student Athlete Act is the inspiration, aiming to keep things fair and square for student athletes. No more ancient "students," says Tuberville!

Dark Money Drama in Alabama

A shadowy PAC from Virginia, the American Conservative Fund, is under scrutiny for allegedly dropping big bucks on Alabama campaigns without filing the right paperwork. Is someone playing dirty?

Trump's Last-Minute Iran Deal?

Hold the phone! Trump claims to have brokered a two-week ceasefire with Iran, reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Stocks are up, oil is down, and Trump's calling out CNN for being Pro-Iran. What a rollercoaster!

Heard on WVNN with Dale Jackson! Tune in weekdays 5-9 a.m.

Keeping Hoover Safe: A Priority

Hoover's known for its safe streets and top-notch public safety – something I dedicated 40 years to protecting! Running for mayor wasn't a snap decision; I loved being Police Chief. But when public safety started taking a backseat, I knew I had to step up.

Hoover can't just maintain; we need to lead. I promised residents I'd address key concerns and reinvest in public safety from day one.

Reversing the Cuts

Before my administration, the Police and Fire Departments faced a 10% budget cut! As Police Chief, I saw the impact on our ability to deliver the excellence Hoover deserves. Even worse was the emergency transport issue in Ross Bridge and Greystone Legacy, forcing fire stations to close way too often during emergencies.

Actionable Change

Thankfully, the City Council shared my commitment, and we got straight to work.

In December, the Council approved $2 million for 35 new police vehicles. Many replacements were overdue, with 2011 models racking up over 200,000 miles. This wasn't just spending; it was catching up!

The 2026 budget also includes seven new firefighters/paramedics, three officers, and a court magistrate. The capital budget? $1.2 million for a new fire engine, retiring a relic from 1995.

New Facilities, Top Recognition

New Fire Station 1 is almost ready, promising a modern upgrade. And incredibly, the Hoover Fire Department earned ISO 1 status, the highest classification nationwide! We're one of just 411 departments in the country with this title, and the only one in Alabama that's both ISO 1 and nationally accredited. This speaks volumes about our dedicated team.

Investing in Our Future

We've fully funded our police and fire departments, reversing those shortsighted cuts. Let me say it again: investing in public safety isn't an expense; it's an investment.

A safe city is fundamental to Hoover's success, past and future. We will never accept fire stations closing, even temporarily, for emergency transport. The new funding ensures this never happens again.

Strong Leadership

The Council and I also focused on recruiting top leaders. We're fortunate Chief Clay Bentley stayed on, and we welcomed Clay Morris as our new Police Chief, bringing experience from the DEA and Pell City.

Teamwork makes big changes happen fast, and I'm grateful for partners like the City Council. We've achieved a lot already, and this is just the beginning.

Nick Derzis, Mayor of Hoover