Tigers' Tournament Hopes Dented in Nashville

The Auburn Tigers suffered a tough loss to the Tennessee Volunteers in the SEC Tournament, putting their NCAA Tournament dreams in serious jeopardy. An early exit in their second game has left fans biting their nails ahead of Selection Sunday.

Above .500, But...

While the Tigers battled through a brutal schedule and snagged some impressive victories, their barely-above-.500 record has some questioning their worthiness. Could Auburn become the first team with 16 losses to sneak into the Big Dance?

Coach Pearl Makes His Case

Despite the odds, Auburn head coach Steven Pearl is still fighting for his squad's inclusion. After the loss, he passionately defended his team's resume, arguing they deserve a shot at March Madness.

"We Deserve to Be In"

"We deserve to be in the tournament," Pearl declared, addressing questions about potentially accepting an NIT bid. He emphasized his role as his team's advocate, highlighting their challenging schedule and quality wins. Pearl pointed to their impressive number of top-25 and top-50 NET wins compared to other bubble teams, confidently stating, "This team deserves to be in the tournament. It's a team that can win games in the tournament."

Waiting Game

Now, Coach Pearl and the Tigers face an anxious wait until Sunday. Their February struggles and premature exit in Nashville have definitely complicated things. Will the committee see enough to grant them a bid? Only time will tell!

Bruce Pearl: Courtside Dad Gone Wild?!

Okay, ChumCity peeps, you know Bruce Pearl, the former Auburn basketball coach? Well, rumor has it, he's become their biggest fan! His son, Steven, took over this season after Bruce's surprise early retirement, and things haven't been sunshine and rainbows, especially lately.

Tournament Troubles

Word on the street is, Auburn's NCAA Tournament hopes are looking shaky after that SEC Tournament loss to Tennessee. Ouch! But things got REALLY interesting when a clip of Bruce Sr. went viral.

Pearl's Passionate Outburst

Let's just say Bruce had some "choice words" for the refs during Thursday's game. Think classic Bruce Pearl on the sidelines, but this time, those refs couldn't hit him with a technical! It's a whole new level of spectator sport.

Sideline Struggles

While Bruce seems cool with retirement, watching his son navigate the coaching world from the stands has gotta be tough. No control? No yelling at refs without consequences? It's a brave new world for the veteran coach, and we're here for the entertainment!

Ready, Aim, Compete! Alabama's Young Archers Gear Up

Montgomery, get ready! The state's largest youth archery showdown, the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) Alabama State Championship, is hitting the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl on April 9th. Prepare for some serious bullseye action!

Decatur Brothers Take Their Shot

Among the 2,000 student archers from across Alabama, keep an eye out for the Bray brothers from Decatur. Easton, Noah, and Silas are locked and loaded, ready to show off their skills.

Trash Talk Spurs a Champion

Eldest brother Easton, 18, might be a relative newcomer to archery, but he's already making waves. He credits (or maybe blames!) his younger brother Noah's needling for his entry into the sport. "He started dogging on me, saying he was so much better," Easton joked. The sibling rivalry sparked a passion, and Easton's been competing ever since.

From Alabama to... Pennsylvania?!

Easton's dedication has taken him far beyond the Alabama range. A social media scroll led him to the Lancaster Archery Classic, the East Coast's biggest indoor archery tournament. A road trip, a snowstorm, and a GOLD MEDAL later, Easton proved he's a force to be reckoned with!

More Than Just a Game

But for Easton, it's about more than just winning. "I just want to give all the glory to God," he said. "No matter what nerves we have on the shooting line, God is with us."

Family Fun on the Range

Back in Alabama, the Bray brothers will be battling it out, coached by their mom, Brittany. "It’s pretty fun driving around to these tournaments with my family," Easton shared. It sounds like archery is more than just a sport for these guys – it's a family affair!

Archery: Good for Kids, Good for Conservation

Justin Grider from the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) highlights the importance of programs like NASP. "It’s a pathway to get people involved in shooting sports, and that’s really important," he said. Plus, the excise tax on archery equipment supports conservation efforts across the state! Get outdoors and get shooting!

2026 Races Heat Up in the Heart of Dixie!

The starting gun has fired! Qualifying for the 2026 state races wrapped up on January 23rd, setting the stage for a wild sprint to the May 19th GOP Primary – which, let's face it, is practically Election Day in Alabama.

Governor's Race: A Tuberville Coronation?

Don't expect too much drama in the Governor's race. Coach Tommy Tuberville seems poised for a smooth ride to the Governor's mansion. He's been campaigning hard for over a year, and with a $10 million war chest, he's the undisputed conservative frontrunner. Token opposition aside, it looks like a cakewalk.

And what about Doug Jones? Our columnist believes a Democrat, especially one with a proven liberal track record, simply can't win statewide in today's Alabama.

Lt. Governor's Race: The REAL Battle?

The Lt. Governor's race, on the other hand, promises to be a barnburner! A whopping seven candidates qualified, including Wes Allen, George Childress, Pat Bishop, Rick Pate, Nicole Jones Wadsworth, John Wahl, and Stewart Hill Tankersley.

The Top Contenders

Expect this to narrow down to a three-way showdown between Secretary of State Wes Allen, Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate, and Republican Party Chairman John Wahl. Who will make the runoff? Nicole Jones Wadsworth is working hard to garner votes.

Allen: The Early Favorite

Wes Allen is the clear frontrunner. He's been campaigning tirelessly for over a year, and has secured major endorsements and considerable funds. Plus, his name is listed first on the ballot, which may be worth a significant boost. His statewide experience as Secretary of State and his popularity in the Wiregrass region certainly help.

Pate: The Popular Ag Commissioner

Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate is also a major force. Term-limited in his current role, he brings a strong reputation and widespread popularity to the race.

Wahl: The Trump Wildcard

The real bombshell? Donald Trump's surprise endorsement of John Wahl! The big question is whether Wahl can raise the cash to effectively promote the endorsement. In politics, money translates to visibility, which translates to votes.

The Money Problem

The challenge? Raising money for a Lieutenant Governor's race can be tough, as the position lacks inherent power or allure for special interest donors.

Expect a very interesting runoff for this Lt Governor’s Race in June!

Milky Way Season is BACK, Y'all!

Alabama's spring weather might be a little wild, but clear skies are on the horizon... and that means Milky Way season is here! Time to dust off your blankets and head outside.

Galactic Glory Awaits

From now through fall, stargazers in the South (that's us!) can witness the glorious Milky Way arcing across the night sky. According to the experts, late March to late September is primetime for seeing the galaxy's brightest and most detailed region, the Galactic Center.

When's the Best Time to Look?

The overall viewing season extends from February to October, but to really maximize your chances, aim for crystal-clear nights far, far away from city lights. Patience is key! The best views tend to pop between midnight and 5 AM, when the sky's at its darkest.

Moon Matters

New moon nights (or nights with minimal moonlight) are your best bet. Bright moonlight can totally wash out the faint glow of billions of stars, ruining the show!

A Galaxy on the Move

Keep in mind, the Milky Way's position changes throughout the season. Early birds catch the galaxy in the early morning hours in late winter/early spring. By midsummer, it's higher in the middle of the night. And in early fall, it appears earlier in the evening.

Escape the City Lights

Light pollution is the enemy! Head to rural areas for the darkest skies and the best views. Alabama has some stellar options:

• Little River Canyon National Preserve
• Bankhead National Forest
• Cheaha State Park
• Conecuh National Forest

Tools of the Trade

Apps can make your Milky Way hunt a whole lot easier. They can track moon phases, sunrise/sunset times, and the Milky Way's position based on your location. Knowledge is power!

Ready for an Out-of-This-World Experience?

With clear skies, minimal moonlight, and a dark location, Alabamians who are willing to stay up late (or wake up super early!) might just catch a glimpse of our own galaxy, a truly unforgettable sight!

Alabama's Gulf Coast: Still Bringing the Heat!

The Alabama Gulf Coast is booming! New data reveals that families across the Southeast are still flocking to our white-sand beaches, making it a premier vacation spot.

Record-Breaking Spending

Get this: visitor spending on lodging in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan hit a whopping $923 million in 2025! That blows 2024's $871 million out of the water and more than doubles the numbers from ten years ago. Retail's holding strong too, with $1.42 billion in sales, just a smidge over last year.

Year-Round Fun

Tourism bigwigs are saying that the steady appeal of Alabama's 32 miles of glorious beach is what's keeping things so lively year-round. Beth Gendler, head honcho at Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, points out that spring and fall are bringing in just as many folks as the summer months.

Stability for Locals

What does this mean for us? Stable business for local shops and year-round jobs for our hard-working community members! It's a win-win.

Even Easier to Get Here

For years, families have been road-tripping down here, but soon, getting to paradise will be even easier. New flights are on the horizon, like Allegiant Air's new route connecting Huntsville and Gulf Shores, starting in May 2026.

Sports Tourism on the Rise

And that's not all! Growing sports tourism is also bringing in visitors outside the peak summer months. Michelle Russ, VP of Sales, Sports & Events, gave an update on the proposed Herbert J. Malone Sportsplex. This athletic complex will be a game-changer, helping us keep up with the demand from youth and amateur sports and compete with other destinations upping their sports facility game.

More Than Just a Destination

It's about strengthening connections with you too. Check out the "By Locals, For Locals" program and the new Shoreline Supply online store for Alabama's Beaches swag. This destination is always finding new ways to welcome visitors and support its awesome community!

Stay tuned for the final economic impact figures from the Alabama Tourism Department later this spring.

The Inevitable Dust

Okay, Chumsters, let's get real. One hundred years from now, you, me, everyone we know? Gone. Dust. Nada. Don't freak! It's the circle of life (cue Lion King music...or maybe don't).

So What Happens to All Our Stuff?

After the big send-off, your precious possessions are hitting the "estate sale" circuit. What doesn't sell? Off to charity! Your comfy home? A total stranger is gonna be bickering about paint colors in it.

That "priceless" vinyl collection you've lovingly curated? It's "priceless" 'cause no one else wants it, bub. Truth hurts.

Rust Never Sleeps (and Neither Does Rot)

Everything crumbles. That sweet ride you busted your butt for? A compressed cube of rusty regret, with a lone Wendy's fry fossilized between the seats. Brutal, I know.

Grandkids: A Fading Memory

Think your grandkids will keep your memory alive? Maybe. But their kids? We're talking genealogical deep dives if they want to know your name. My own dad, gone since 2000, is already fading from memory. A WWII draft card is all that remains online. Woof.

Fame: The Elixir of Life?

Depressing, right? No wonder Gen-Z craves fame! But will today's influencers be remembered? Doubtful. Newer, hipper folks will take their place faster than you can say "influencer marketing."

The Ocean's Wake

Alan Watts nailed it: life is like a ship. We plow through the waves, leaving a wake. But that wake disappears. Time and distance are not kind.

So, What Do We Leave Behind?

Here's the kicker: we often pass on our worst traits. What if your great-grandpa had kicked the booze and treated grandma better? What if your dad conquered his demons? Imagine the ripple effect! Our actions echo through generations, even if nobody remembers our names.

Breaking the Cycle

We're all obsessed with legacy. But honestly? Not much materially matters. The real legacy? Memories created and cycles broken.

Recognize those toxic patterns. Break them! The darkness, the hate, the addiction... these are often our deepest connections to our past.

A Legacy Worth Leaving

Your time is short. Your kids don't need your stuff. But you can leave a positive legacy. Forget the vinyl; aim for a legacy of health, love, and righteousness. Now that's something to be remembered for!

The "Anti-Industry Industry": Who's Stopping Progress?

Ever wonder about the forces trying to halt production and development? There's a whole industry dedicated to it, what energy writer Robert Bryce calls the "anti-industry industry."

Big Money, Big Influence

In 2021, leading anti-climate change NGOs raked in a whopping $4.5 billion! This "industry" employs legions of lawyers, strategists, and fundraisers – all working to slow down modern industrial production. Heavy hitters include groups like the Environmental Defense Fund and the World Resources Institute, each boasting revenues over $400 million.

Funding the Fight

Where does all this money come from? Mostly billionaires and their heirs – think Jeff Bezos, Laurene Powell Jobs, and the Rockefeller Brothers Fund. They also back other progressive NGOs, sometimes through figures like George and Alexander Soros.

Weapons of Choice

These groups aren't just sitting on their cash. They're actively fighting industry with legislation, regulations (which escape public scrutiny!), and aggressive litigation. They even staff government commissions and fund climate reporting in mainstream media.

Red Tape and Lawsuits

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a favorite tool. Its lengthy and costly environmental impact studies can stall projects for years. Look at Micron's $100 billion semiconductor plant – the impact study took two years and ran 20,000 pages! Even after groundbreaking, an NGO sued, claiming the study was "rushed."

Weaponizing Climate Change

Climate change litigation is another key strategy. Millions are spent on "weather attribution research" to link individual storms to climate change. But these claims are often dubious, lacking evidence in historical weather records.

Influencing the Courts

They're even trying to influence judges! Litigation proponents inserted a chapter on climate change in a manual used by Federal judges, essentially telling them how to rule.

What Can We Do?

Ideally, this "anti-industry industry" would disappear. But suppressing their speech and advocacy is authoritarian. The First Amendment protects their right to argue, even for causes we disagree with.

Meeting Arguments with Arguments

The best approach is to meet their arguments with better ones. The American experiment trusts citizens to weigh the evidence and decide who's telling the truth. It's frustrating when skewed research from the left influences policy, but censorship isn't the answer.

The Price of Democracy

Advocating for policies, even those that promote degrowth, is a right in a liberal democracy. Debating the merits of industrial society might be wasteful, but it seems unavoidable.

Donut Dollies: A Sweet Slice of Appreciation

Long before Madison knew the name, "Donut Dollies" were a welcome sight for US troops overseas. Think World War I, World War II, and Vietnam - brave women from the American Red Cross bringing smiles to military bases and field hospitals. They weren't fighting battles, but they were fighting homesickness, armed with coffee, donuts, games, and good conversation. A little piece of home in the middle of a war zone.

The Legacy Lives On

Decades later, the spirit of those amazing volunteers is still baking strong, right here in Madison, Alabama! A group of local women has adopted the name and the mission: showing veterans they're appreciated.

Coffee, Donuts, and Camaraderie

These modern Donut Dollies meet the first Tuesday of every month, serving up coffee, donuts, and conversation to local veterans. This awesome group, mostly volunteers from Madison Methodist Church, is all about building community and creating a safe, welcoming space where veterans can connect, share stories, and feel valued for their service.

More Than Just a Treat

"We meet here to serve the veterans. We got kind of hooked into it," Carol Moats, president of Madison Methodist Women, shared. "We thought, 'Oh, that's a way we can serve an easy way,' and it blesses us more than it does them, really." While the treats are tempting, the real magic happens when veterans from different eras and backgrounds come together in fellowship.

Honoring Service, Spreading Joy

"It's a blessing for us, these men, no matter where they served, how they served, if they were in a conflict or not, they served our country," Moats said. "It's the least we can do is to give back to them, to love on them, to just bring a little bit of joy to them every month." The name "Donut Dollies" itself is a heartfelt tribute to the women who supported American troops in past wars.

From War Zones to Fellowship Halls

Although they're serving in a church, not a war zone, the goal is the same: to offer appreciation, connection, and a sweet reminder that the sacrifices of our service members are never forgotten.

T-Town Flavor Hits Birmingham!

Guess what, ChumCity fam?! That legendary Irish Gold sauce you've heard whispers about? It's landed in Birmingham, exclusively at B’Ham Chicken in the Pizitz Food Hall!

What's the Hype?

For years, Irish Gold has reigned supreme at Innisfree Irish Pub in Tuscaloosa. Think late-night wings, game days, and that perfect flavor explosion that UA students and alumni can't get enough of. This stuff is a Tuscaloosa tradition!

B'Ham Chicken: Your Irish Gold HQ

Now, B’Ham Chicken is bringing that magic to the Magic City. They're the only place in Birmingham where you can dive into this iconic sauce! Crispy fried chicken + legendary sauce = pure genius.

Tuscaloosa Tradition, B'Ham Style

This isn’t just a sauce; it’s a taste of Tuscaloosa history! That sweet, tangy, spicy goodness that put Innisfree on the map? You can now experience it at B'Ham Chicken.

Get Your Fix!

Head to the Pizitz Food Hall and get your Irish Gold fix at B’Ham Chicken. It’s a limited-time opportunity to experience the legend without the drive. Don't miss out!