Tuberville Scores Big with Alabama Business Groups!

Coach Tommy Tuberville's campaign for Alabama governor just got a major boost! Three heavy-hitting business associations have officially thrown their weight behind the former football coach.

Who's on Team Tuberville?

We're talking the Business Council of Alabama (BCA), the Alabama Forestry Association (AFA), and the Alabama Concrete Industries Association (ACIA). That's a broad range of industries right there!

Tuberville's Game Plan for Business

"I'm grateful for the support," Tuberville said, emphasizing his understanding of the challenges faced by Alabama businesses. He pointed to overregulation and high taxes as hurdles he plans to tackle, particularly with "President Trump...working to get our economy back on track."

Why the Endorsements?

BCA President Helena Duncan highlighted Tuberville's grasp of key business issues like workforce development and infrastructure. The AFA's Chris Isaacson praised Tuberville's record in the Senate, especially his efforts to reduce regulations. John Sorrell of ACIA underscored Tuberville's unwavering support for Alabama's economic interests.

What Does It Mean?

These endorsements are a serious sign of confidence from the Alabama business world as the governor's race heats up. It looks like Coach Tuberville is making some serious headway!

The Curated Life: Are We Missing Out?

We curate everything these days, don't we? News, music, even our dates! I saw someone at Starbucks order a coffee so specific, it could have its own zip code. It's a far cry from the "black or free" options our grandfathers knew.

The Playlist Mentality

We've even curated our listening habits! No more suffering through songs we don't like. Could you imagine making today's teens listen to a Walkman radio for a week? The horror!

The Paradox of Choice

All this tailoring... shouldn't we be living in the age of ultimate freedom? Instead, is it just the illusion of control? Does it bring peace, or a creeping sense that something's off?

Schwartz's Insight

Barry Schwartz nailed it in "The Paradox of Choice." Too many choices make it hard to choose anything. And even when we do, we're haunted by "what ifs." The road not taken always whispers. Did you make the right choice?

Unreasonable Expectations

Is all this customization setting us up for a fall? Real life isn't curated. It's messy, random, and often unfair.

The Unscripted Life

We don't choose our parents or our genes. Marriages evolve (or devolve) unpredictably. Kids? Forget about customizing them! And careers? Luck plays a bigger role than we'd like to admit.

These uncurated moments shape us. They teach us lessons that carefully planned events never could. The real choice is how we react to life's curveballs.

Embrace the Discomfort

We dodge pain, but discomfort is where growth happens. Wisdom is forged in losses and failures. Heartbreak teaches us about love. Losing a loved one shows us the value of life. Surviving a serious illness gives us perspective.

In those moments, we realize we don't curate anything, real life does.

Surrender to the Real

True freedom comes from embracing the limits we're given. It's surrendering the illusion of control and choosing to live with courage.

What if...?

What if we stopped chasing the "perfect" life and just lived a real one? A life where not everything is custom-made. A life where we have no clue how it will all turn out.

A life where the worst moments become sacred. Where passion interrupts, and grief breaks us open to something deeper.

We're not here to curate. We're here to be transformed. And that transformation rarely comes from control. It comes from letting go and just ordering a black coffee.

Supreme Court Sides with Parents, Say Tuberville and Palmer!

Big news out of Washington! Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and Representative Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) are cheering a recent Supreme Court decision. The case? It’s all about giving parents more say over what their kids learn in public schools.

What's the Fuss About?

The Supreme Court, in a 6-3 ruling, decided that a Maryland school district needs to let parents opt their children out of LGBTQ-related lessons if those lessons clash with their religious beliefs. Justice Samuel Alito stated that forcing kids into situations that undermine parental religious instruction is a no-go.

Tuberville Sounds Off!

Tuberville is thrilled, emphasizing parents should be calling the shots. He questions why schools are focusing on anything but the basics: reading and writing. "Why in the world would we be teaching kids something other than writing and reading books?" Tuberville asked on Newsmax. He expressed concerns about indoctrination in lower grades, urging vigilance.

Palmer Joins the Chorus

Representative Gary Palmer, who even backed the case with an amicus brief, sees the ruling as a win for family values. He believes it reinforces the idea that parents know best for their children.

Local Voices, National Impact

What do you think, ChumCity? Is this a victory for parental rights or a step backward for inclusive education? Let us know in the comments!

Huntsville's Sewer Rates Get a Refresh!

Hold onto your hats, Chumsters! Huntsville just gave its sewer rates a little nudge, marking the first increase in 20 years. The City Council gave the green light in a 4-1 vote at Thursday's meeting.

What's Changing?

Expect to see your monthly sewer bill go from $24.15 to $29.15 for the average household. But hey, even with the bump, we're still rockin' rates way below the Alabama average of $52.14, say city officials. Plus, there's a plan for small, $1 monthly increases starting in 2026 and continuing through 2034.

Looking Ahead to 2034

By 2034, the average bill will be $39.15.

Why the Change?

This isn't just about money, folks! It's about keeping our sewer system ship-shape. The extra funds will fuel a $150 million investment to upgrade our infrastructure over the next decade. Parts of Huntsville's system are throwbacks to the 1950s! This investment ensures everything keeps flowing smoothly and meets all the necessary regulations.

Space Campers Connect with Astronauts on the ISS!

Get ready for liftoff! Next week, Space Campers are getting the chance of a lifetime: a Q&A session with NASA astronauts aboard the International Space Station!

An Astronaut's Perspective

On Tuesday at 11:40 a.m. CDT, astronauts Anne McClain, Jonny Kim, and Nichole Ayers will answer pre-recorded questions from our eager Space Campers. Talk about an out-of-this-world experience!

A Space Camp Success Story

Here's a fun fact: Astronaut Ayers is actually a Space Camp alumna! How cool is that?

A 65th Anniversary Celebration

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is hosting this exciting downlink as part of NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's 65th-anniversary bash!

More Astronauts Arrive at the ISS

Speaking of space travel, five more astronauts just arrived at the ISS after SpaceX's Dragon launched from Kennedy Space Center! The ISS is getting crowded!

International Crew Onboard

Joining the NASA astronauts are JAXA astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonauts Kirill Peskov, Sergey Ryzhikov, and Alexey Zubritsky. It's a true international collaboration!

Research and Exploration

The Axiom crew will be at the station for around two weeks, busy with microgravity research, educational outreach, and other cool commercial ventures, before heading back to Earth.

25 Years in Space!

For nearly a quarter-century, astronauts have continuously called the ISS home, testing new tech, conducting experiments, and honing their skills for future deep-space exploration.

Constant Communication

Astronauts stay in constant contact with Mission Control in Houston via NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation network. It's important to stay connected!

Benefits for Everyone

The ISS is a hub for important research that benefits us all back on Earth. Plus, it's laying the foundation for even more exciting missions.

Artemis: Aiming for the Moon and Beyond

It's all part of NASA's Artemis program, which aims to send astronauts back to the moon in preparation for exploring Mars. The future of space exploration is bright!

HUGE Get for Auburn!

Alright, ChumCity crew, listen up! After a few weeks of recruiting blues for Head Coach Hugh Freeze, the Auburn Tigers just landed a MONSTER commitment for the 2026 class. We're talking a game-changer here!

Falzone Flips to the Plains!

Four-star quarterback Peyton Falzone, a Pennsylvania gunslinger, just flipped his commitment from Penn State to Auburn! This is HUGE news, folks.

What Falzone Brings to the Table

This 6'5" QB from Nazareth, PA is a legit talent. He's rated near the top-ten QBs nationally, and a top player in the Keystone State. Over the past two seasons, he's racked up over 4,600 passing yards, 1,000 rushing yards, and accounted for 61 touchdowns with just eight interceptions. BOOM!

Momentum Shift?

Falzone is a massive win for Freeze and could be the spark Auburn needs to build serious recruiting momentum. Could Falzone be the future under center on the Plains? War Eagle!

Troy University Goes All-In on AI!

Get ready, Southeast Alabama! Troy University is planting its flag firmly in the world of artificial intelligence, and they're not just talking the talk. They're building the future right now, for students and business bigwigs alike.

AI Center is Officially Open

Troy's new Center for Artificial Intelligence Research and Education is ready to rock. Located within the Sorrell College of Business, it's taking a "business-first" approach to all things AI. They're hooking up pros, execs, and organizations with the skills to spot AI opportunities, use machine learning like bosses, and navigate the AI takeover like total pros.

Economic Boost on the Horizon?

Economic development gurus from 11 Southeast Alabama counties recently invaded the AI center to see how this tech could pump up business operations and boost regional competition. It's all about bridging the gap between real-world needs and the latest tech wizardry.

Pike County Gets the AI Bug

Ted Clem, head honcho at the Pike County Economic Development Corporation, is stoked about the possibilities. He thinks understanding AI could give local economic leaders a strategic leg up, helping them make their counties more competitive. Smart dude!

AI Forward Initiative is Go!

Troy's "AI Forward Initiative" is all about prepping students and community partners for an AI-powered future. It's not just about the tech, though. They're pushing for responsible and ethical use of AI, encouraging real-world application in businesses.

Changing the Game in Alabama

Troy University isn't just adding AI to the course list. They're actively working with the regional workforce to bring tech-fueled transformation to Alabama's business scene. Exciting times ahead!

Gulf Coast Road Trip? Don't Miss This Hidden Gem!

Headed to the Gulf Coast this summer? Ditch the beach clichés for a bit and swing by the Poarch Creek Indians Museum and Welcome Center in Atmore, Alabama! Just off I-65 at Exit 54, this spot offers a super cool, educational experience you won't forget. Perfect for families, school trips, or anyone interested in Native American history.

Dive into Poarch Creek Culture

The Museum’s all about preserving and sharing the amazing history and culture of the Poarch Creek Indians – Alabama's only federally recognized Tribe. And guess what? Admission is FREE! Prepare for a thought-provoking journey from ancient times to today’s thriving community.

Exhibits That Pop!

Step inside and watch history come alive! Explore early Creek life, the Mississippian era, and the Creek Confederacy through awesome artifacts like stoneware, pottery, tools, and historical docs. Don’t miss the Tribe’s original Petition for Federal Recognition from 1980 – a game-changing moment!

Trailblazers of Identity: A Must-See Exhibit

Right now, check out "Trailblazers of Identity: Advocating for Culture and Self-Determination," an exhibit all about how the Poarch Creek people reconnected with their heritage in the 70s. Talk about resilience and revitalization! It's a powerful story of staying true to tradition while building an awesome future.

Group Visits? They've Got You Covered!

The Museum hosts customized experiences for everyone! School field trips are educational and immersive, while corporate and civic groups can learn about cultural awareness. Community organizations and summer camps will love the interactive exhibits and storytelling.

Personalized Experiences

Each group visit is led by knowledgeable staff and tailored to be meaningful and respectful. It's all about educating the public, fostering appreciation, and strengthening community ties through shared history!

A Vital Hub

While the Poarch Creek reservation itself doesn't have public attractions (yet!), the Museum is where it's at! If you’re heading to the reservation for meetings or services, it’s the perfect place to get directions, check in, and learn about the Tribe's impact on the region.

Souvenirs That Matter

Before you leave, hit up the Museum's shop for authentic Native-made goods, books, and unique gifts. It’s the perfect way to support Tribal artisans and cultural preservation!

Plan Your Visit

The Poarch Creek Indians Museum and Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free! New exhibits and seasonal events mean there’s always something new to explore.

This summer, ditch the ordinary! Stop by and experience the incredible story of the Poarch Creek Indians – a community rooted in tradition and ready to welcome you!

Hanceville PD Gets a Makeover!

The Hanceville City Council is shaking things up! On June 26th, they brought in David Thompson to help revamp the city's police department. This guy isn't just anyone – he's got over 30 years of law enforcement under his belt!

Thompson's Task: Policy & More

Thompson's mission? To dive deep into the department, updating policies, procedures, and even the employee handbook. He'll also be taking a good hard look at what the department has in its toolbox (assets, for those in the know).

Law Enforcement Veteran

He's not new to this rodeo. Thompson spent three decades as a Deputy Sheriff in Jefferson County. He even started young, exploring with the Trussville PD at just 14! After retiring six years ago, he hopped into public safety consulting.

Public Safety Commission on the Horizon?

Word on the street (via WBRC) is that Hanceville might be switching things up even more, potentially rebranding the department as a public safety commission. This move is reportedly tied to resolving past issues.

Truckin' Out: Fleet Loan Gone!

In other news, the council approved the sale of two unmarked police trucks: a 2022 Dodge Ram and a 2023 Chevy Silverado. Why? To wipe out a $52,000 fleet loan! The Silverado alone is expected to almost cover the whole thing.

Election Update

Qualifying for local elections wrapped up this week. Councilwoman Kim Brown is the only current member who threw her hat in the ring for reelection.

Alabama's Trade Star Ascends!

Christina Stimpson, the awesome Chief Officer of the Global Business Office at the Alabama Department of Commerce, just landed a spot on the board of directors of the State International Development Organizations (SIDO)! This is HUGE news! SIDO is THE go-to national association for all things international trade and export programs for U.S. states.

What This Means for Alabama

Stimpson's appointment puts Alabama right in the thick of the national trade conversation. Based in Washington, D.C., SIDO is a serious player, acting as a vital resource for governors, state agencies, exporters, investors, and trade orgs.

Stimpson's Take

"SIDO has been a game-changer for me and Alabama's international trade program," Stimpson said. "It's a real honor to join the board and represent our state on the national stage. I'm stoked to contribute and keep learning from the best trade pros in the country!"

Championing Alabama Businesses

In her role, Stimpson is the brains behind Alabama's export and international biz development strategies. She works hand-in-hand with partners statewide to help Alabama companies smash it in the global marketplace.

Big Ups From the Top

Alabama Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair is thrilled, saying Stimpson's appointment shows how strong Alabama's international trade program is. "Christina's been a champion for Alabama companies looking to conquer new markets," Secretary McNair said. "Her spot on the SIDO board recognizes her leadership and highlights Alabama's global impact. I'm super proud to see her representing our state in this critical national network!"

About SIDO

SIDO provides a sweet platform for state trade directors and their teams, offering training, policy guidance, and networking to boost the states' role in international commerce.

Representing the South

Stimpson will represent the South region, joining a crew of industry leaders shaping SIDO's programs and championing policies that empower state-level trade development.

SIDO Leadership

Emily Desai (California) will be president for 2026/2027, with Tim Tierney (Vermont) as vice president. Mary Waters (Georgia) is ex officio.

Board Breakdown by Region:

Midwest: Lindsey Warner (ND), Aaron Zitzelsberger (WI) East: Wade Merritt (ME), Adam Boltik (NH) West: Angelyn DeYoung (MT), Sharon Canaday (ID) South: Mike Hubbard (NC), Christina Stimpson (AL) At Large: Jennifer Black (PA), Lindsey Bertozzi (VA), Leonyl Ortiz-Gonzalez (PR), Mary NeCamp (KY)

(Terms: July 1–June 3