Alabama's Ultimate Outdoor Playground: Chadwick Farm!

Heads up, ChumCity adventurers! Check out Chadwick Farm, a massive 1,827-acre recreational paradise just a quick hop (45 miles!) from Birmingham. This ain't just land; it's an experience!

Where Appalachian Charm Meets Southern Huntin' Style

Imagine the rugged beauty of Appalachia blended with the classic vibes of a Southern hunting plantation. Chadwick Farm is your all-access pass to year-round outdoor thrills.

Picture-Perfect Landscape

We're talking meticulously kept quail woods, killer views, and not one, but TWO professionally managed lakes practically begging for some fishing action.

Easy Access to Adventure

Fifteen minutes to Gadsden Airport, under an hour to Birmingham, and a weekend trip to Atlanta or Chattanooga? Boom! You're there.

The Lodge: Your Rustic-Chic Retreat

Nestled in the heart of it all is a 2,000-square-foot lodge built in '08. Three bedrooms, two and a half baths, plus a two-car carport? Yes, please!

Heart Pine and Barnwood Bliss

Think reclaimed heart pine timbers, barnwood floors, rustic charm meeting modern comfort. High-end everything, plus a covered porch overlooking quail stands. That's living!

The Party Barn: Let the Good Times Roll!

Hold up, gotta talk about the "party barn." Reclaimed barnwood, vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and a full kitchen? It's party central!

Fireplace, Bar, and Manicured Grounds!

A wood-burning fireplace, a bar for your best concoctions, and oversized doors that spill out onto perfectly manicured grounds? This place screams "good times."

Outdoor Oasis

Firepit, pavilion, fenced garden, and covered dining areas – bring on the BBQ! Plus, a separate bathhouse? They thought of everything.

Turnkey Dream

Sold turnkey, furniture, tractors, and equipment included! Plus, no conservation easements means you've got the freedom to manage or develop the land exactly how you want.

Investment Gold

Chadwick Farm isn't just a pretty place; it's a smart investment, with improvements estimated at WAY below replacement cost. This place is the real deal.

Meta Doubles Down on Montgomery!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity! Meta is going BIG in Montgomery, Alabama, with a massive expansion of its data center. This means the tech giant is now investing a WHOPPING $1.5 billion in our region!

This awesome news came during a sneak-peek tour for state and local leaders, proving that Montgomery is quickly becoming a tech and innovation powerhouse in the Southeast.

Why Montgomery?

According to Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair, Meta's choice shows just how competitive Alabama is becoming in the tech world. She says this expansion proves we can compete for global projects, create awesome jobs, and build the necessary infrastructure for a modern economy. Talk about a win-win-win!

More Than Just a Data Center

The completed Montgomery Data Center will boast over 1.3 million square feet and support more than 100 operational jobs. Plus, it's optimized for AI workloads! It's a crucial part of the global infrastructure that brings us the Facebooks and Instagrams we all know and (sometimes) love.

Henry Thornton from Meta says Montgomery has been the PERFECT home for their data center, thanks to incredible community support and awesome partnerships with state and local leaders.

The Ripple Effect

This expansion isn't just about Meta; it's about the whole region. The data center is already generating major economic benefits through construction, supply chain opportunities, and workforce development. The Chamber of Commerce notes that the construction phase alone will support over 1,500 skilled trade workers.

Montgomery: A Hub for Innovation

With its growing support for defense and innovation, Montgomery is the ideal spot for Meta’s expansion. This investment strengthens our ecosystem and solidifies our role as a hub for AI, cybersecurity, and business innovation.

Local Leaders are Stoked!

Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed says this investment reflects the city's vision for a modern economy based on innovation and quality of life. It also means real opportunities for residents: good jobs, stronger schools, and a future powered by technology!

Montgomery County Commission Chairman Doug Singleton adds that Meta's commitment is a testament to the community's strength and potential, bringing jobs, investment, and momentum for every sector of our economy.

Montgomery Chamber CEO Anna Buckalew calls Meta's decision a "powerful statement" about the city's competitiveness and ability to attract global investment. She emphasizes the impact of public-private partnerships in driving long-term growth for the region's role as a hub for advanced manufacturing, logistics, technology, and national security.

Big News for ChumCity!

This means good things are coming to Montgomery, and we are here for it!

ProgressPAC Announces First Round of Endorsements for 2026!

The Business Council of Alabama's ProgressPAC is already gearing up for the 2026 elections, announcing its initial list of endorsed candidates. These lawmakers are being hailed as "pro-business champions" for their consistent support of Alabama's vibrant business community.

According to the BCA, these individuals have shown real dedication to boosting Alabama's economy. They’ve actively engaged with local businesses, championed their interests in legislative debates, pushed forward pro-business policies in committees, and worked hand-in-hand with the BCA on key initiatives. Sounds like a powerful group!

Who Made the Cut?

Here's a look at the initial list of endorsements:

Alabama Senate

• Garlan Gudger (R-Cullman)
• Matt Woods (R-Jasper)
• Steve Livingston (R-Scottsboro)
• Wes Kitchens (R-Arab)
• Lance Bell (R-Pell City)
• Jabo Waggoner (R-Vestavia Hills)
• Shay Shelnutt (R-Trussville)
• Rodger Smitherman (D-Birmingham)
• Greg Albritton (R-Atmore)
• Bobby Singleton (D-Greensboro)
• Jay Hovey (R-Auburn)
• Donnie Chesteen (R-Geneva)
• Josh Carnley (R-Enterprise)
• Chris Elliott (R-Josephine)

Alabama House

• Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville)
• Kerry “Bubba” Underwood (R-Tuscumbia)
• Danny Crawford (R-Athens)
• Andy Whitt (R-Harvest)
• Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle)
• Leigh Hulsey (R-Helena)
• Bryan Brinyark (R-Tuscaloosa)
• James Lomax (R-Huntsville)
• Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville)
• Mike Kirkland (R-Scottsboro)
• Jeana Ross (R-Guntersville)
• Ben Robbins (R-Sylacauga)
• Corley Ellis (R-Columbiana)
• Danny Garrett (R-Trussville)
• David Faulkner (R-Mountain Brook)
• Mike Shaw (R-Hoover)
• Anthony Daniels (D-Huntsville)
• Joe Lovvorn (R-Auburn)
• Chris Blackshear (R-Phenix City)
• Paul Lee (R-Dothan)
• Steve Clouse (R-Ozark)
• Frances Holk-Jones (R-Foley)
• Matt Simpson (R-Daphne)
• Chris Pringle (R-Mobile)

Standing With Business

"Alabama's economic future depends on bold, principled leaders," said BCA President and CEO Helena Duncan. ProgressPAC Chairman Gary Smith added that these legislators exemplify the leadership Alabama needs.

BCA says to stay tuned – more endorsements are on the horizon!

Bruce Pearl Retires: A New Era for Auburn Hoops!

The SEC world was rocked Monday as Auburn Tigers basketball coach Bruce Pearl, a true legend, announced his retirement! Even more shocking? His son, Steven, will be taking over the reins!

Pearl's Legacy on the Plains

Since arriving in 2014, Pearl transformed Auburn into a basketball powerhouse. Think two Final Fours and a staggering five SEC championships. He undeniably built the most successful era in program history. Auburn fans, prepare to be eternally grateful!

Freeze's Heartfelt Words

It wasn't just the fans singing Pearl's praises. Auburn football head coach Hugh Freeze kicked off his Monday presser by gushing about Pearl, congratulating him on an unbelievable career.

"One of the Best Men I've Ever Met"

Freeze didn't hold back, calling Pearl "one of the best men I've ever met," highlighting his knack for making everyone feel valued. He acknowledged he'll miss their camaraderie.

Passing the Torch to Steven

Freeze also congratulated Steven Pearl on his opportunity to lead the program, acknowledging his years of dedication. He's looking forward to forging a strong relationship with the new head coach.

Auburn's Brotherhood

Freeze's heartfelt comments offer a glimpse into the close bonds within Auburn Athletics. With Steven at the helm, the Tigers seem poised for continued success. The future looks bright on the Plains!

Alabama AG Applauds Trump's ANTIFA Designation!

Following last year's bombing targeting the Alabama Attorney General's office, Steve Marshall is giving major props to President Trump's decision to label ANTIFA a terrorist org.

Trump Takes Action

Trump recently signed an executive order branding ANTIFA, short for "antifascist," as an "enterprise that explicitly calls for the overthrow of the United States government." This move also follows the recent murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Trump's Truth Social Declaration

Earlier this month, the Prez announced his plans to make this official, declaring on Truth Social that ANTIFA is "A SICK, DANGEROUS, RADICAL LEFT DISASTER" and a "MAJOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION." He also hinted at investigations into those funding ANTIFA.

Marshall's Support

Marshall, who's also eyeing a U.S. Senate seat in 2026, voiced his agreement, tweeting his gratitude to Trump for "identifying Antifa for what it is—an extremist terrorist group, targeting nationally recognized GOP offices and officials."

Local Connection

Marshall also highlighted the link between the alleged bomber of the Alabama attorney general’s office and ANTIFA. Kyle Benjamin Douglas Calvert, 26, faces charges related to the bombing.

Marshall's Promise

Marshall promises to champion Trump's tough-on-crime stance if elected as Alabama's next senator. "I fully support recognizing ANTIFA as a domestic terrorist organization," he stated. "Their open hostility to the Constitution, use of violence to achieve political ends, and Marxist ideology are a direct threat to public safety and the foundational values of our country."

Mobile's Mayoral Race Heats Up!

The battle for Mobile's top spot is reaching fever pitch! After 12 years, Mayor Sandy Stimpson is stepping down, leaving the door wide open.

Runoff Rumble: Drummond vs. Cheriogotis

It's a showdown between State Rep. Barbara Drummond and former District Court Judge Spiro Cheriogotis! Expect a nail-biting race to the finish line.

Voting Day Hiccups?

Hold up! Some Mobile voters ran into trouble Tuesday. Some were tagged as "inactive" and almost blocked from casting a regular ballot. What?!

Inactive Issues Pop Up

Word is, this happened at more than one voting spot. Places like Rise Church and the VIA Health, Fitness & Enrichment Center reported problems. Judy Motlow, Chair of the Mobile County Board of Registrars, confirmed "other polling places" were affected too.

The Fix is In (Hopefully!)

Motlow says the issue is now sorted. Apparently, the Tenex electronic poll books had a default setting that flagged inactive voters. After some quick work, officials updated the system, allowing voters to update their info and cast a regular ballot.

Provisional Ballots in the Mix

The Mobile County Board of Registrars will be diving into all those provisional ballots to decide which ones get counted.

Last Chance to Vote!

Polls close at 7 p.m. sharp! If you're in line by then, you're good to go, even if it takes a little longer. Get out there and make your voice heard, ChumCity!

Tide Rolling into Athens: A Season-Defining Showdown

The Alabama Crimson Tide is fresh off a bye, but the rest is over. Now they face arguably the biggest, most crucial test of the Kalen DeBoer era.

From Tallahassee Trauma to Athens Ambition

Remember those national title dreams? That Week 1 smackdown in Tallahassee by Florida State? Yeah, reality check. Two wins followed, sure, but against softer competition. Now it's all eyes on a massive road trip to Athens.

Decade-Long Drought Broken

It's been a decade since Alabama set foot in Sanford Stadium, and that undefeated streak against the Bulldogs in regular-season games since 2007 is on the line. A second loss this early is a no-go, but the implications run deeper.

Road Warriors Needed

Apart from that LSU hiccup last year, DeBoer's squads haven't exactly thrived away from home. This is the ultimate road test – both the crowd and the opponent cranked up to eleven.

Hot Seat Alert?

DeBoer bought some goodwill these last few weeks, but a chunk of the fanbase is ready to pounce if things go south. This isn't just a game to stay on track; it's a game to keep the faith.

Dominate or Disappear?

A close loss might not trigger alarm bells, but a Georgia beatdown? The "DeBoer out" chants will get LOUD.

Talent on Both Sides

On paper, Alabama's roster is as good as, if not better than, Georgia's. There's no reason they can't win this.

Not Quite "Do or Die," But...

It's early, but a no-show in Athens? A lot of folks will be hitting the eject button on this coaching staff.

The Stakes are High

DeBoer knows the challenge. He's probably figuring out the pressure cooker that comes with it, too. This is a huge test, maybe the biggest he's faced since landing in Tuscaloosa.

The clock is ticking.

Bama Legend AJ McCarron Eyes Statewide Office!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! Word on the street is that former Alabama Crimson Tide QB and Mobile's own, AJ McCarron, is gearing up for a statewide run in 2026. Sources close to the gridiron great are buzzing that he's seriously considering a bid for either Lieutenant Governor or U.S. Senate.

From Touchdowns to the Statehouse?

While no official campaign announcement or paperwork has dropped yet, the 34-year-old is reportedly laying the groundwork for a major political play. Remember those back-to-back national championships in '11 and '12? And his time slinging the pigskin in the NFL and UFL? Looks like he's ready for a new challenge.

The Lay of the Land

With Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth term-limited, that seat's wide open. Ag Commissioner Rick Pate and Secretary of State Wes Allen are already in the mix. Plus, with Senator Tommy Tuberville potentially moving on, the Senate race is heating up too. Names like Steve Marshall, Barry Moore, Jared Hudson, and Morgan Murphy are all tossing their hats in the ring.

Mobile Ties and a Crimson Connection

Back in his hometown, McCarron's got strong connections. He and his family are linked to McCarron Real Estate, a local enterprise. And let's not forget his wife, Katherine Webb-McCarron, former Miss Alabama USA! The couple, who tied the knot in Orange Beach and have three kids, are a true Alabama power couple.

Plenty of Time on the Clock

Don't expect anything official just yet! The Alabama Republican Party's qualifying window doesn't close until January 2026. McCarron's got time to strategize and decide where he'll best serve the Yellowhammer State. Stay tuned, ChumCity - this could get interesting!

New Mayor Alert! Mobile Elects Spiro Cheriogotis!

Hold the phone, ChumCity! Mobile has a brand-spankin' new mayor! After a super close and competitive race, Spiro Cheriogotis, a former prosecutor and district judge, snagged the top spot, defeating State Rep. Barbara Drummond!

The Race Heard 'Round Mobile

Drummond initially led after the general election on August 26th. But Cheriogotis pulled off a major comeback, ultimately securing the win with the backing of outgoing Mayor Sandy Stimpson. Talk about a plot twist!

Victory Vibes & Technical Snafus

With almost all precincts reporting, Cheriogotis held a lead, 51.40% to Drummond's 48.60%. Despite some polling place glitches and extra provisional ballots, the Cheriogotis camp was feelin' victorious!

"A New Chapter"

In his victory speech, Cheriogotis expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him, promising to write "a new chapter" for Mobile. "It came down to every last vote in this race," he exclaimed.

Partisan Undercurrents

While officially non-partisan, the race saw some partisan jabs in the final stretch. A PAC even called Cheriogotis a "MAGA Republican," and Drummond received endorsements from some big-name Democrats.

From Rivals to Allies?

Interestingly, Cheriogotis will replace Stimpson, with whom he's had public disagreements in the past. But it seems they've patched things up! Stimpson even passed a symbolic baton to Cheriogotis at the victory celebration. How's that for unity?!

The Money Matters

Cheriogotis held a significant fundraising advantage, thanks in part to contributions from a PAC linked to Stimpson. Talk about a war chest!

Looking Ahead

Cheriogotis promised to serve with the same "energy and vigor" he brought to the campaign. Get ready, Mobile! A new era is about to begin!

Alabama Politics Heatin' Up!

Looks like the political scene in Alabama is about to get a whole lot more interesting, y'all!

Gridiron to Government?

First, we heard tell of Coach Tommy Tuberville makin' the leap from the football field to the Senate. Then, whispers started circlin' 'bout Coach Bruce Pearl potentially shootin' for Congress. Now, word on the street is that Alabama QB legend AJ McCarron is plannin' a statewide run in '26! Talk about a roster change! Sources are sayin' it's a done deal, so buckle up!

Tylenol Tussle

Remember all that drama over Tylenol and autism? Well, it's back! Seems like the previous administration had some strong opinions, despite Tylenol's prior warnings. Now, some folks are pushin' back... by taking Tylenol while pregnant. Yikes!

Trump's UN Takedown

President Trump didn't hold back at the United Nations, callin' the whole operation "incompetent" and "powerless." He also made sure everyone knew how great he thinks he's doin' on the world stage.

Mayoral Melee!

Mobile just got a new mayor! Former Judge Spiro Cheriogotis took down State Rep Barbara Drummond in a runoff that was anything but smooth. Word is, there were some serious voter glitches, leadin' to complaints and provisional ballots galore. Meanwhile, up in Guntersville, the incumbent mayor held onto his seat after a tie in August with Jeff McLaughing. Talk about a nail-biter!

Marshall's Antifa Stance

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, who's throwin' his hat in the ring for U.S. Senate, is all in on President Trump's plan to label Antifa a terrorist organization. He's even citin' a 2024 bombing, supposedly by an Antifa follower, as personal proof.

Democratic Candidate's Antifa Embrace?

Over in the 5th Congressional District, Democratic candidate Jeremy Devito is apparently lookin' to Antifa for campaign cash. This all happened after Trump called 'em out and labeled them terrorists. Sounds like a bold move!

Kimmel's Comeback and Controversy

Jimmy Kimmel's back on ABC, but not everyone in Alabama is thrilled. Four stations gave his show the skip. His "apology" for... something... wasn't exactly winnin' hearts and minds, and Trump let him – and ABC – have it!

Dale Jackson, folks, is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and holds down the mic weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.