Beth Chapman: An Alabama Inspiration

Beth Chapman's story is pure Alabama gold: purpose, integrity, and a heart devoted to serving others. From Alabama's 51st Secretary of State to a three-time statewide elected official and now head of her own government relations firm, she's spent years shaping policy, fighting for transparency, and inspiring women across the state. It's a tale of resilience, dedication, and unwavering faith that resonates far beyond politics.

Defining Moments

What makes Beth most proud? Getting elected statewide three times as State Auditor and Secretary of State and leading the National Association of Secretaries of State. "These honed my leadership," she says, "and boosted my work in state government for Alabama and the nation." Her focus? Rock-solid integrity in elections and smoother services for Alabama businesses. She built systems people could trust.

Women Who Inspired Her

Behind every great leader? An army of support. Beth credits her mom, who worked at the Butler County Courthouse. "I visited her after school and absorbed so much about public service." Former Alabama Supreme Court Justice Patti Smith was a mentor and friend, teaching Beth to use her talents to serve others. High school teachers and a close circle of friends were also crucial.

Finding Purpose

For Beth, it's all about purpose. "What brings purpose to my work is that all of it helps people in some way. I am blessed and fortunate that I get to do both —make a living and make a difference." She's represented everyone from abused children to farmers to major corporations. Through her firm, Beth Chapman & Associates, she's devoted to helping others thrive.

Why It Matters to Alabama

Beth's work is vital to Alabama. "Everyone... wants to succeed. I help them thrive," she says. She sees the groups she works with as the backbone of Alabama’s success. By helping them navigate government, she boosts the state. She envisions a collaborative Alabama where government, business, and community organizations work together.

Early Inspiration

Beth's passion ignited early. In third grade, she campaigned for her paraplegic city councilman cousin – a time before wheelchair ramps were commonplace. "I loved it!" she says. The University of Montevallo was also a game-changer. She earned bachelor's and master's degrees. She credits these with shaping her commitment to service. She spent 10 years at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, before entering state government. In 2002, she was elected State Auditor, and later Secretary of State until 2013.

After her husband's death, she re-established Beth Chapman & Associates, LLC, representing clients with the same passion she brought to elected office. “It is a joy and a privilege for people to trust me with their business."

Attributes of Great Leadership

Beth values a strong work ethic, dedication, determination, and resourcefulness. "Leaders must be results-oriented and humble." It’s this mix of drive and humility that has defined her leadership.

Resilience and Faith

Beth's story is one of resilience. She rebuilt her career with faith after losing her husband. This personal strength is part of her legacy — a reminder that women are defined by how they overcome challenges. From childhood campaigning to shaping Alabama elections to mentoring women, Beth Chapman embodies service, strengthening communities, and making Alabama more prosperous. Her legacy? Countless lives touched. For Beth, that's the ultimate honor.

Rep. Strong Champions Security Solution for Redstone Arsenal!

Redstone Arsenal, a vital hub for our community, just got a boost thanks to U.S. Rep. Dale Strong! He's been hard at work addressing concerns about security on the sprawling facility.

Keeping Redstone Secure and Accessible

Rep. Strong spearheaded a key provision in the recently passed House National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. This smart move allows military installations to bring in contracted security personnel when enlisted soldiers aren't available. This is fantastic news for Redstone!

Why This Matters to You

"Nearly 50,000 folks come to Redstone Arsenal to work every single day," Strong (R-Huntsville) pointed out. Redstone is unique – it doesn't have the large number of junior enlisted personnel other bases use for gate security. This provision means smooth, secure access for everyone!

Thanks to Key Support

Strong expressed his gratitude to House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers for backing this vital measure. It ensures Redstone can contract personnel for those essential security guard roles.

Addressing Recent Gate Changes

Remember those changes to Gate 3's operational hours and the earlier closure of Gate 8? Those were tough decisions made due to federal funding cuts. This provision helps alleviate those pressures!

What's Next?

The NDAA, which authorizes funding for the Department of Defense, nuclear weapons programs, and other defense activities, has cleared the House. Now, it's off to the Senate! Once the Senate version is approved, any differences will be ironed out before heading to the president for final approval.

Alabama Republicans Slam Dems After Refugee's Murder

Alabama's GOP is fuming after the tragic murder of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a North Carolina train. They're pointing fingers at Democratic policies, claiming they allowed the alleged repeat offender to be released. Sen. Katie Britt didn't mince words, saying the suspect's rap sheet was "a mile long" and blaming "Democrat-run cities" for being "overrun with crime."

Trump Rages at Russia's Polish Airspace Blunder

Former President Trump is reportedly seeing red over Russia's recent drone incursion into Polish airspace. He's apparently reaffirmed U.S. support for NATO ally Poland and is mulling over new sanctions against Russia with European leaders.

Pritzker Blasts Trump's Chicago National Guard Threat

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is not happy with ex-President Trump's latest threats to send National Guard troops to Chicago, calling it a "power grab." Meanwhile, Operation Midway Blitz continues with ICE raids, stirring up angry crowds that Pritzker seems to be siding with.

Bronner Sounds Alarm on Trump's Policies

RSA CEO David Bronner, a name well-known and respected in Alabama political circles, is raising concerns that ex-President Trump's unpredictable policies, including tariffs and immigration crackdowns, could jeopardize Alabama's massive $56 billion retirement funds. This, even with stocks soaring, inflation stable, and the RSA's own contractor facing illegal labor allegations.

TPUSA's Charlie Kirk Assassinated at Utah University

In shocking news, Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk was assassinated yesterday at Utah Valley University. The incident occurred while he was taking questions from the audience on mass shootings. He had just responded to a query involving gang violence when he tragically collapsed.

Trump Calls Kirk a "Martyr"

Ex-President Trump released a statement from the Oval Office, calling Charlie Kirk a "martyr for truth and freedom" in the wake of his assassination.

Alabama Mourns Charlie Kirk

Alabama leaders and conservatives are in mourning following Charlie Kirk's death. There's been a prayer vigil at the University of Alabama, calls for an end to political violence, and widespread tributes to his conservative legacy.

Remembering Alabama's 9/11 Heroes

It's been nearly a quarter of a century since the devastating attacks of September 11, 2001, but the pain and loss still resonate deeply here in Alabama.

Across our state, communities remember the men and women with Alabama connections who were tragically taken that day. They were students, professionals, soldiers, civil servants, neighbors, and friends.

Their lives were cut short in New York, at the Pentagon, and aboard those hijacked planes, but their stories and memories live on in the heart of Alabama.

World Trade Center

• Alok Kumar Mehta: A Huntsville High School grad (class of '96), Alok worked for Cantor-Fitzgerald and perished in the World Trade Center's north tower.
• Dorothy Pearl Temple: Originally from Montgomery, Dorothy worked for the NY State Department of Taxation and Finance. She died in the World Trade Center's south tower.
• James D. Cleere: A Birmingham native, James was employed by Marsh & McLennan in the World Trade Center's north tower.

The Pentagon

• Jimmie Ira Holley: A Vietnam vet and U.S. Army civilian worker from Alexander City, Jimmie was an accountant at the Pentagon.
• Nehamon "Nick" Lyons IV: A Navy operations specialist from Mobile, Nick lost his life in the Pentagon attack.
• Marsha Dianah Ratchford: From Prichard, Marsha served in the Navy and worked at the Pentagon.
• Tamara C. Thurman: A 25-year-old Brewton native, Tamara was working for the Army at the Pentagon.
• Dwayne Williams: A decorated Army Major from Jacksonville, Alabama, Dwayne was the Joint Officer Distribution Manager at the Pentagon.
• Terry Lynch: Originally from Youngstown, Ohio, Terry worked as a senior legislative aide to Alabama Congress member and later U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby for 15 years, starting in 1982, before consulting for Booz-Allen & Hamilton. Terry was at work in the Pentagon for a meeting when the airplane hit the building.

Aboard Hijacked Airplanes

• Mary Lynn Edwards Angell: A former Mountain Brook resident and Auburn grad, Mary Lynn and her husband, David, were passengers on American Airlines Flight 11, which struck the north tower. The Angells founded a foundation in 1996 that continues to support the arts, education, spirituality, and youth efforts in Alabama.
• Carl Max Hammond, Jr.: A Huntsville native, Carl was aboard United Airlines Flight 175, which crashed into the World Trade Center's south tower.
• Eddie A. Dillard: From Hurtsboro, Eddie was a passenger on American Airlines Flight 77, which struck the Pentagon.

These Alabamians, along with so many others, were taken from us too soon.

Let's vow to never forget their names, their stories, and the sacrifices they made.

Remembering 9/11 in Alabama

Hey ChumCity friends! As patriotic Alabamians, we never forget those who defend our freedom. September 11, 2025, marks 24 years since the 9/11 attacks – hard to believe, right? But Alabama's keeping the memory alive.

Local Commemorations

This week, communities across Alabama are hosting some truly special tributes to remember 9/11.

USA Stair Climb Challenge

On September 11th, if you're near the University of South Alabama, check out the Stair Climb Challenge at Hancock Whitney Stadium from 60 to 7:15 a.m. It’s a remembrance, not a race. Climbers will tackle 2,071 steps, mirroring the incredible journey of first responders up the 110 stories of the World Trade Center.

American Village Remembrance

At noon on the same day, join fellow patriots at the National Veterans Shrine at the American Village for a solemn tribute. There will be a moment of silence, reflections, and the ceremonial ringing of a bell, symbolizing remembrance and unity.

Opelika's Mobile Exhibit

For the first time ever, Opelika is teaming up with the East Alabama Regional Training Association to bring the Tunnel to Towers 9/11 Never Forget Mobile Exhibit from September 11th-16th to 301 Lake Condy Road.

The exhibit features artifacts from Ground Zero, including steel and aluminum pieces of the World Trade Center. You'll find videos, 9/11 dispatch audio, and a touching tribute to the heroes who sacrificed everything on 9/11 and those who've suffered since due to related illnesses. Retired NYC firefighters and first responders will even be on hand to share their firsthand experiences and memories. A memorial honoring the 343 FDNY firefighters who perished on 9/11 will also be set up along the Southern Union walking track.

The exhibit is open to the public from 110 a.m. to 70 p.m. on September 11th, 13th, and 14th, and from 30 p.m. to 60 p.m. on September 15th and 16th.

"Where were you when the world stopped turnin’?"

That Alan Jackson line gets me every time. I don't often talk about 9/11. Twenty-four years later, it still stings.

Back then, I was a news producer at 1010 WINS, NYC's top all-news radio station – you know, "Give us 22 minutes, we'll give you the world." My job? Keep the city informed during its darkest hour.

Ground Zero and a Lifeline

When the Twin Towers fell, so did most of NYC's local TV signals – their transmitters were on top of the World Trade Center. 1010 WINS became a lifeline. Behind the scenes, our newsroom was a mess of chaos, fear, and heartbreak.

Moments I Can't Forget

I still hear those moments in my head:

• My then-husband, anchor Jim Faherty, breaking in with the unbelievable news: a plane hit the Trade Center.
• A sales rep-turned-reporter screaming live on air as the South Tower collapsed right before her eyes.
• Desperate callers begging for help finding their loved ones.
• My friend Larry Kofsky, our Wall Street reporter, walking almost five miles back to the newsroom, his shirt stamped with a footprint from being trampled during the collapse.

Hope Amidst Devastation

But amid the devastation, there was hope. Our legendary reporter John Montone, missing for over an hour, finally called – hoarse but alive. He described being trapped with strangers in a nearby building, fearing the worst, until they found a way out together. Outside, everyday people offered water, wet napkins, and compassion.

As John said on air, "These were the most helpful people in the world… people of all races, nationalities, sexes stopped to help people who needed help. It was an unbelievable display of humanity.”

United We Stood

That day, we were all Americans – no Republicans or Democrats, no Left or Right. The flags waving, the voices singing "God Bless America" on the Capitol steps – those moments showed the best of us.

Never Forget

Almost a quarter-century later, the pain is still raw. My biggest fear? That 9/11 becomes just another date. We can't let that happen.

So today, take a moment. Remember the lives lost. Honor the heroes. Reflect on the unity that defined us.

And above all: Never Forget.

Alabama Eyes Full Broadband Coverage Thanks to BEAD Plan!

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) just wrapped up a public comment period on its final BEAD proposal, which is now heading to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration next Thursday. Get ready for some serious internet upgrades, y'all!

State officials are saying this plan could bring high-speed internet to every single BEAD-eligible spot in Alabama, potentially hooking up over 101,000 addresses. Once these projects are done, Alabama could officially have full broadband coverage, according to NTIA's standards!

Governor Ivey's Take

"Getting high-speed internet to every Alabamian has been a top priority," says Governor Kay Ivey. She also emphasized the collaboration with the Trump Administration, which she claims helped cut costs. According to her statement, that teamwork resulted in a savings of over $800 million for taxpayers – a whopping 60% reduction from Alabama's original BEAD allocation.

Efficiency is Key

ADECA's negotiating prowess is a big part of the success! They managed to secure commitments averaging under $6,000 per location across those 100,000+ addresses. This makes Alabama one of the most cost-effective states in the BEAD program. Many states are seeing fiber deployment costs in the $4,000-$10,000 range (and even higher in remote areas).

Saving Money and Investing Wisely

By keeping costs down, Alabama not only saves a bunch of money but also frees up federal funds for other projects or even deeper investment in those super-hard-to-reach areas. Plus, ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell says that around 80% of locations are slated for wired fiber, which is considered the gold standard for speed and reliability.

A Vision Fulfilled?

"Governor Ivey wanted every single Alabamian to have high-speed internet," Boswell states. "And, thanks to collaboration with the NTIA, internet providers, and local communities, this proposal could make that vision a reality. This plan, if approved, is going to benefit Alabamians for generations."

Who's Involved?

The list of potential awardees includes some big names in the internet world, both national and international, as well as local Alabama companies and cooperatives. ADECA says they've thoroughly vetted everyone to make sure they can deliver on their promises.

Wiregrass Veteran Honored at the White House!

You won't believe this feel-good story! After the big announcement about Space Command coming to Huntsville, U.S. Rep. Barry Moore had an amazing moment. He shared the story of a local WWII hero with President Trump himself!

Remembering Milton Doggett

Milton Doggett, a 103-year-old Wiregrass legend, recently passed away. He served our country bravely and dedicated decades to civil service at Fort Rucker.

A Chance Encounter, A Touching Tribute

Rep. Moore, who knew Doggett's family, felt inspired to bring the memorial pamphlet with him to the White House. "Milton Doggett was an American hero... who fought for our nation," Moore stated proudly.

Signed and Delivered

"After the announcement about Space Command, I got to tell President Trump about Mr. Doggett and even got his memorial folder signed to give to his family!" How cool is that?

A Life of Service

Doggett enlisted in the Army back in '42 and served for over 20 years, including nearly three years in WWII.

Never Forget

"I hope we never forget the sacrifices of men and women like Mr. Doggett," Moore said, himself a veteran. What a great way to honor a true American hero!

NIL Money Mania in Alabama!

The wild world of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) has injected some serious cash into college football, and Alabama's top teams are definitely playing the game.

Big Bucks for Bama and Auburn Stars

Alabama and Auburn, no strangers to the finer things, are reportedly throwing down some serious cash for talent. And the numbers are eye-popping!

Ryan Williams: Rolling in the Dough

Crimson Tide wide receiver Ryan Williams is reportedly set to rake in over $1.8 million this season! That makes him the second-highest paid receiver in college football, trailing only Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith.

Williams sat out last week's game due to a concussion, but he's hungry to get back on the field and prove his worth.

Cam Coleman Cashing In Too

Over on the Plains, Auburn sophomore Cam Coleman is also banking over $1 million. While he's still searching for his first touchdown this season, his 100 receiving yards show promise.

Pressure's On!

With these huge paydays comes huge expectations. The spotlight is brighter than ever on Williams and Coleman. Will they live up to the hype? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: these guys are getting paid!

AFA Annual Meeting a Smashing Success!

The Alabama Forestry Association's 2025 annual meeting in Orange Beach was a record-breaker! Over 450 forestry bigwigs from Alabama and the Southeast convened for the three-day event.

Isaacson's Take

AFA President and CEO Chris Isaacson was stoked about the meeting's energy. He praised the industry's growth and resilience, adding that the meeting proved members are pumped for innovation and collaboration.

Tuberville Talks Trade

U.S. Senator and gubernatorial hopeful Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) delivered the keynote, focusing on those tricky trade and tariff issues impacting forestry. He emphasized the industry's importance to Alabama's economy, particularly in rural areas.

Ledbetter Leads the Charge

Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter also addressed the crowd and steered a CEO panel discussion featuring Caroline Dauzat (Rex Lumber), Glenn Nunziata (Enviva), and Doug Otto (Alabama Port Authority). He highlighted forestry's massive $36 billion annual contribution to Alabama and its support of 55,000+ jobs.

Williams Wins Big

State Sen. Jack W. Williams (R-Wilmer) snagged the 2025 AFA Legislator of the Year Award, recognizing his unwavering support for AFA's principles in the State House. Williams was deeply honored, underscoring the vital role of Alabama's timber industry.

Looking Ahead

The AFA Annual Meeting brings together forestry folks to tackle challenges and celebrate successes. Mark your calendars: the next one is September 13-15, 2026!