Gulf State Park Campground: Nation's Best!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! Gulf State Park's campground just snagged the top spot in the USA Today 10Best 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards for Best RV Campground! That's right, folks, we're talking about a true RV paradise right here in our backyard.

What Makes it So Great?

With nearly 500 full-hookup campsites, this place has always been a haven for RV enthusiasts. Commissioner Chris Blankenship of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources sums it up perfectly: "If you want to understand why our state is called ‘Alabama the Beautiful,’ all you have to do is visit Gulf State Park.”

More Than Just Campsites

But it's not just about the campsites! Gulf State Park, attracting over 3 million visitors annually, boasts sugar-white beaches just a short walk or bike ride away. Plus, remember the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail? It's been named the nation's top recreational trail for the THIRD year running! Gulf Shores itself isn't doing too bad either, ranking as the No. 6 Best Coastal Small Town.

What to Expect

The campground is ready for practically any modern RV, with camping pads up to 65 feet long! You'll also find 11 updated bathhouses, a pool with a splash pad, tennis, pickleball, and volleyball courts, and a nature center.

Exciting Expansion on the Horizon!

And guess what? They're expanding! Over 100 new "luxury-style" campsites are coming in 2026, each with tons of space, a clubhouse, putting green, and another pool and splash pad! Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps shared, "It’s rewarding to know the campground is considered one of the nation’s best, and we’re committed to making it even better in the future.”

Even More to Enjoy!

Don't forget the recently renovated fishing pier and beach pavilion! Gulf State Park is truly a gem, and we're thrilled to see it getting the recognition it deserves. Get out there and explore!

Raytheon Delivers Hypersonic Missile-Tracking Radar!

Big news, ChumCityizens! Raytheon just dropped off a seriously souped-up radar system to the Missile Defense Agency. This ain't your grandpappy's radar – we're talking next-level tech designed to track those super-speedy hypersonic missiles.

What's the Hype?

This upgraded Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) radar boasts a longer reach than ever before. It can now feed targeting data to a wider range of missile defense interceptors – not just THAAD batteries. Think of it as the ultimate wingman for our missile defenses.

GaN Power!

This bad boy is the first AN/TPY-2 radar packed with a full Gallium Nitride (GaN) array. According to Raytheon, this means it can spot incoming threats from twice the distance! That extra time gives our defense teams crucial moments to decide how to respond.

Standalone Savior?

Word on the street is this radar can be deployed as a mobile unit. That makes it a potential key player in creating a comprehensive missile shield.

Hypersonic Hunter

But wait, there's more! This upgraded AN/TPY-2 is specifically designed to find and track hypersonic missiles. These missiles are smaller and more maneuverable than traditional ballistic missiles, making them a real challenge to intercept. But with its enhanced range and target discrimination, this radar can spot them early and take them out before they even start to dance!

Slocomb's Sweet Secret: Dalton Pharmacy, a Century of Care

Ever cruised through Slocomb and done a double-take on South Dalton Street? That's probably because of the awesome mural on Dalton Pharmacy, proudly declaring "Your Pharmacy Since 1903!" This isn't just some chain store, folks; it's a four-generation family affair, 122 years strong!

A Blast From the Past

Step inside, and you're stepping back in time! Check out the original brass cash register, a relic from before plastic even existed! And peep the old-school mortar and pestle – real pharmacy history right there.

Those black-and-white checkered floors? They whisper tales of soda fountain days, when pharmacists whipped up magical Coca-Cola concoctions. Can you imagine?!

The Dalton Dynasty

Back when Teddy Roosevelt was president and Slocomb was just a babe, Jep P. Dalton opened shop. Turns out, it was all to support his brother's medical practice! Talk about sibling love! Jep's son, Charles, took over after him, and after Charles, it was Paul, and now its Paul's son, Joe! "In those six decades, Dad never missed a day of work and never complained," Joe has said about his father.

More Than Just Pills

Joe remembers a time when Dalton Pharmacy was a veritable wonderland. "When I was a kid, the store also sold jewelry, gifts, ice cream, roasted peanuts, and more!" Plus, it was the place to snag school textbooks. This place was, and still is, an icon.

The Soda Fountain Swagger

"During school years, I worked the soda fountain," Joe reminisces. "My standard required the straw to stand in the middle of the milkshake unassisted. Now that’s a milkshake!" Ah, simpler times, right? "Our business was and is all about customer service and relationships," Joe says. "It is critical we keep the small, independent pharmacy in existence, especially for the small communities."

Tyler Takes the Torch

Now, it's Tyler Dalton's turn to run the show, after starting as a young pup and tinkerin around when he could. He represents the fourth generation of Dalton pharmacists!

Small Town Strong

How does a little pharmacy in Slocomb compete with the big guys in Dothan? "They know us and we know them," Tyler says. "We are in their Sunday School classes, attend church together, play sports with them, and contribute to local programs. We support our community because it’s our community, too."

More Than a Transaction

"This is a relationship that matters," Tyler insists. "It’s not like ordering a pizza. Your medications are extremely important." And they even deliver when their customers cant make the trip!

The Fight to Survive

But it's not all sunshine and milkshakes. Small pharmacies are struggling. "Over 20% of prescriptions we dispense are sold at a loss. For example, a medicine that costs us $1,000 might be reimbursed $800 by the insurance company. We lose $200."

Tyler and Joe are fighting for fair legislation to keep these vital community hubs alive.

The Legacy Continues

Today, the Dalton family's footprint includes nine locations, all dedicated to that same small-town care. Its a tough business, but Tyler says they must continue the legacy. Running a pharmacy is difficult these days. It is a balance between customer relationships, government regulations, insurance mandates, and helping people.

Tyler knows that local pharmacists save lives, and that's why he loves the biz. Now that's what ChumCity is all about!

Senator Tuberville Honors Alabama's Fallen Heroes

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) took to the Senate floor this week to pay a heartfelt tribute to two of Alabama's bravest. In a moving speech leading up to Memorial Day, he honored their ultimate sacrifice.

Remembering Staff Sergeant Michael Wesley Hosey

Tuberville shared the story of U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Wesley Hosey of Clay. This Clay-Chalkville High School grad enlisted at just 17, with his dad's blessing! Known for his deep patriotism and kind heart, Hosey always asked for candy in his care packages – not for himself, but to share with the local kids during his deployment. Sadly, he was killed in action on September 17, 2011, during Operation Enduring Freedom, just days shy of his 28th birthday.

Tuberville recounted, "For U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Michael Wesley Hosey, there was never a question in anyone’s mind as to what he wanted to do. Michael loved reading about history —and he loved our country. So much so, that his friends and family gave him the nickname, ‘Merican!’”

Remembering Lance Corporal Jason Barfield

The Senator also honored U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Jason Barfield of Ashford. A talented musician from Ashford High School, Barfield turned down a college band scholarship to serve his country. He made the ultimate sacrifice on October 24, 2011, at the young age of 22, reportedly saving the lives of eight fellow Marines, a translator, and even a military K-9 from a booby trap explosion.

"Jason lived his life with the goal of making a difference," Tuberville shared. "His mom Kelli says that Jason believed that there was good in everyone – just dig a little deeper!" He lived by the motto: "Every Day is A Good Day."

A Call to Remember

Senator Tuberville stressed the importance of always remembering these heroes and introduced a resolution to designate May 2025 as “Fallen Heroes Memorial Month.”

"Michael Wesley Hosey and Jason Barfield never got to start a family or fully pursue their dreams," Tuberville said. "They courageously were willing to give their lives for their fellow Americans. We will share their stories to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten."

Alabama's Burger Bonanza: A ChumCity Taste Tour!

Got a hankering for a juicy, mouthwatering burger? You're in luck! Alabama's practically BURSTING with incredible burger joints. Forget just grilling patties at home; we're talking next-level flavor explosions.

But with so many options—grilled, griddled, sky-high, or classic—how do you choose the best? Well, we're not claiming to have a definitive answer (that's, like, science). Instead, we've rounded up a sizzling selection of fan favorites, based on your reviews, recommendations, and our own tasty investigations!

These aren't just burgers; they're passion projects. Each bite is packed with care and a serious craving to satisfy your taste buds. So, ditch the diet (just for today!), and let's dive into some must-try burger destinations!

The Lineup: Burgers Worth the Drive

Alabama Grill (Greenville)

Fork and knife, anyone? These towering burgers are legendary! This spot, reborn in 2019 by Resa Bates and Allan Bloodworth, blends local Alabama flavor with classic burger goodness. Think juicy, never-frozen patties, Wickles Pickles, and creative toppings galore (pineapple and Conecuh sausage?!).

Pirate’s Cove (Elberta)

Could this be the cheeseburger that inspired Jimmy Buffett's iconic tune? Nestled on Arnica Bay, Pirate’s Cove delivers a no-frills, ultra-satisfying burger experience. A blend of short rib, brisket, and chuck make this a juicy mess you won't regret. Pair it with fries and a "cold draft beer," or go for a bushwacker – the ultimate adult milkshake!

Back Forty Brewing (Gadsden)

Beer AND burgers? Sign us up! While Back Forty is famous for its award-winning brews, their cheeseburger is a delicious dark horse. Expect double patties piled high with toppings. Chow down on the deck with a Naked Pig Pale Ale or a Truck Stop Honey Ale for the perfect pairing.

Staggs Grocery (Florence)

Step back in time at Staggs Grocery, a local institution since 1938. This ain't fancy; it's just pure, unadulterated burger joy. Simple seasoning, perfectly griddled beef, and all the classic fixings. They churn through 300 lbs of beef a week!

Sheila C’s Burger Barn (Auburn)

This place is famous, people! Eight-time "Reader's Choice" winner Sheila C's is an Auburn institution. Sheila’s burgers are shrouded in mystery! (Even the "C" in her name is a secret!) Get the "all the way" cheeseburger – a messy, delicious masterpiece.

Bill E’s (Fairhope)

Bacon lovers, rejoice! Bill E’s (formerly Old 27 Grill) is a burger haven. And they make their own bacon, too. Dive into the Bacon Burger or the Chili Cheeseburger for a taste of burger paradise. For the ultimate bacon experience, try the Blended Burger – a beef and bacon patty with a fried egg on top!

Honorable Mentions: Reader Picks!

• Campbell’s BBQ (Talladega)
• Boaz Café (Boaz)
• Grumpy’s (Boaz)
• Midas Burger (Arab)
• Cardinal Drive-In (Moulton)
• Brindley Mountain BBQ (Cullman)
• Ketchem’s Restaurant & Catering (Hartford)
• Ole Gin Steakhouse (Section)
• The Greasy Spoon (Gallant)
• Our Place Diner (Ozark)

So, there you have it – a ChumCity-approved guide to Alabama's best burgers! Get out there, explore, and find your new favorite patty paradise!

Calling All Alabama Hunters! Hunt Lease Auction Incoming!

Get ready, Alabama hunters! The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is gearing up for a live auction of hunting leases! State Lands has pinpointed a whopping 140 potential hunting lease tracts across 32 counties for this upcoming 5-year lease cycle. This is your chance to snag some primo hunting ground!

Mark Your Calendars: Auction Details

The public auction will be held Saturday, May 31, at the Grande Hall at Old Mill Square in Columbiana. Get there early! Doors open for bidder registration at 8:15 a.m., and the auction kicks off at 10 a.m. sharp.

Key Advice Before You Bid

Before you show up and start bidding, State Lands Director Patti Powell McCurdy stresses the importance of preparation. Read the official Auction Announcement very carefully. It's your go-to guide for all the bidding requirements.

Expanding Hunting Opportunities

ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship emphasizes that this hunting lease program enhances the already fantastic public hunting opportunities offered by ADCNR on WMAs, SOAs, and Forever Wild Land Trust tracts. This auction isn't touching those areas!

Your Personal Hunting Experience

"This gives the public an opportunity to lease a tract and enjoy it with family and friends. Our bidders range from hunting clubs to grandparents looking for a place to take their grandkids hunting," says Commissioner Blankenship. "It’s just a different experience we are offering the public.”

More Than Just Hunting

McCurdy explains that this auction helps State Lands fulfill its duty to manage state-owned land to generate revenue for agencies like the Department of Education and the Department of Mental Health.

Tract Variety

Tracts range from 34 acres in Walker County to a sprawling 1,400 acres in Tuscaloosa County! Terrain includes uplands, bottomlands, and Appalachian foothills. Some are bow hunting only, so there are diverse options to suit every hunter's preference!

Important Bidder Requirements

Each bidder must bring a certified or cashier’s check (no cash or personal checks) for the required bid deposit for each tract. Check the Complete Tract Listing to find the specific deposit amount.

Absentee Bids Accepted

Can't make it to the auction? No problem! Written absentee bids will be accepted until 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the State Lands Division in Montgomery. Get the full details on how to submit an absentee bid in the Auction Announcement.

What Happens Next?

State Lands will open the written absentee bids the day after the deadline. Bidding at the May 31st auction will start at either the minimum bid or the highest written absentee bid. State Lands aims to post a list of the highest absentee bids by the close of business on May 29th.

Key Lease Requirements

Review the Sample Lease before bidding! Key points include maintaining general liability insurance, submitting a list of approved hunters, and agreeing to provide some landowner assistance.

Lease Restrictions

Lease terms include provisions that restrict the use of the properties to the lessee, authorized guests, and members of the lessee hunting club. The lease holder must maintain property line fire breaks and till, fertilize, and plant fire lanes, roadsides, and/or approved food plots at the lessee’s expense. No new food plots or other agricultural practices are allowed without approval from State Lands. No lease can be assigned, and tract access is not guaranteed.

A Win-Win Situation

State Lands invests time and resources to ensure these leases benefit both the state and hunters. The leases generate revenue for state agencies while offering a unique hunting opportunity. So, if you missed out last time, now's your chance!

Mobile Arena Construction Kicks Off – Get Ready to Rock, ChumCity!

Get ready, Mobile! The groundbreaking ceremony has officially launched construction on the brand-spankin’ new Mobile Arena. This state-of-the-art entertainment spot is about to turn our beloved Port City into the Gulf Coast's hottest destination. Remember the old Mobile Civic Center? Well, that 22-acre space is getting a MAJOR upgrade.

A Public-Private Party

This isn't just some building; it's a collaboration! The City of Mobile and Oak View Group (OVG), the masterminds behind this project, are teaming up to bring this vision to life. Set your calendars for a 2027 completion date, because this arena is going to host EVERYTHING – concerts, sports, family fun, and, of course, our epic Mardi Gras balls!

Mayor's Pumped!

"After years of talking and months of planning, it's happening!" said Mayor Sandy Stimpson. "Mobile Arena is going to be a game-changer! Think more tourists, more awesome events, and more good times for everyone!"

Flexible Fun for All

The Mobile Arena will comfortably fit over 10,000 peeps for big events, but it's also designed to be super adaptable for smaller gatherings. Ballrooms? Check. Fancy suites? You bet. Prime seating? Absolutely. Plus, local voices helped shape the design, so it's truly made for Mobile! Goodwyn Mills Cawood and Populous are the architectural dream team making it all happen.

Local Pride

"We're thrilled to be part of something so transformative right here in our backyard," says Senior Architect Keith Parker. "This venue will take live entertainment, concerts, and Mardi Gras to a whole new level. Mobile was 'Born to Celebrate'—count us in!"

Building the Dream

BL Harbert International, known for big projects around here (like the Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center!), is the construction crew.

Building Progress

"Mobile Arena symbolizes our commitment to progress," says Dan Price of BL Harbert International. "We're honored to help bring this vision to life!"

Coca-Cola on Board!

Oak View Group announced their first founding partner: Mobile Coca-Cola Bottling Company! Get ready for Coke products, promotions, and even joint sustainability efforts.

Cheers!

"We're proud to partner with Mobile and welcome Coca-Cola!" said Dan Griffis, president of global partnerships at Oak View Group. "Coca-Cola will help us make Mobile Arena even more awesome!"

Ready for Anything

Peter Luukko, co-chair of Oak View Group, adds, "This project reflects everything we believe in – creating world-class venues that serve their communities and deliver unforgettable experiences. We're building a destination that reflects the spirit of Mobile and attracts top events."

The Future is Bright

Mobile Arena is poised to become THE place to be for entertainment and community events. Get ready, ChumCity, for a modern space where we can celebrate everything we love!

Red Snapper Rebound in the Gulf!

Great news, ChumCity anglers! The University of South Alabama's annual fish survey is reporting a booming red snapper population in the Gulf, setting the stage for an awesome 2025 season!

Snapper Numbers Soaring

Researchers from the Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences just wrapped up their report to the Alabama Marine Resources Division. They've been keeping tabs on the fish populations around Alabama's 10,000+ artificial reefs. While the average size of red snapper might be a tad smaller, the overall numbers are the highest they've seen in years!

Underwater ROV Reveals All

How do they know? They're using a high-tech remotely operated vehicle (ROV) equipped with a camera to capture footage of the fish swimming around. This helps them estimate the population with serious accuracy. In fact, 2024 saw the highest red snapper counts since the survey kicked off in 2011!

A Healthy Ecosystem

"We have a healthy red snapper population in our area of the Gulf," says Dr. Sean Powers, director of the Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences. "We have the management and science in place to balance the needs of a diverse group of fishermen.”

Get Ready for Snapper Season 2025!

Mark your calendars! The 2025 red snapper season opens for private and state-licensed charter vessel anglers on Friday, May 23rd, running seven days a week through June 30th. After that, it's four-day weekend action starting July 4th until the private angler quota is reached. Alabama's private angler quota for 2025 is estimated at 664,552 pounds, set by NOAA Fisheries.

Partnering for Progress

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship emphasizes the importance of the research partnership with USA: “Alabama is blessed with phenomenal fishery resources. Our partnership with the University of South Alabama...is critical in assisting us in making informed decisions.”

Important Reminders

The daily bag limit is two red snapper per person, per day, with a minimum size limit of 16 inches. Anglers 16 and older need an Alabama saltwater fishing license, and residents 65+ or lifetime license holders need a current saltwater angler registration.

Birmingham to Host 2027 Medal of Honor Convention!

Get ready, ChumCity! Birmingham is thrilled to announce it's been chosen as the official host for the 2027 Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention! Mark your calendars for September 13-18, 2027, as we welcome these incredible American heroes.

A City of Patriots

"Our Recipients are honored to bring the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention to Birmingham – a city rich in American history and defined by its unwavering patriotism," says Medal of Honor Recipient Britt Slabinski. Birmingham, birthplace of the first Veterans Day parade, knows how to honor our veterans!

What to Expect

The Convention promises a week of reflection, recognition, and awesome community engagement. Expect public ceremonies, educational programs, and opportunities to connect with these amazing individuals. Around 40 of the 61 living Medal of Honor Recipients are expected to attend.

Birmingham's Commitment

"Our city has a unique history of resilience, community building, and transformation, and it’s only fitting that we serve those who have so selflessly served us," shared A.C. Roper, Army Lt. General (Ret.).

A Proud Legacy

Mayor Randall Woodfin adds, "Home to the National Veterans Shrine, the Alabama Fallen Warriors Monument, Alabama Veterans Memorial Park, and more, our city holds a deep, enduring respect for those who have served." This convention is a chance to show off that spirit!

A Big Deal for Birmingham

John Oros, CEO of the Greater Birmingham CVB, says it best: "Hosting the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Convention is an incredible honor for Birmingham!" Get ready to welcome visitors from across the country and show them why Birmingham rocks!

Honoring Heroes This Memorial Day

Governor Kay Ivey, along with Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton and Alabama National Guard Adjutant General David Pritchett, are sharing a special Memorial Day message.

A Moment of Remembrance

These leaders are taking a moment to reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day, honoring the brave U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.

Gratitude and Reflection

Hear heartfelt words of gratitude for the families of the fallen and a call for all Alabamians to pause and remember those who gave everything. Let's never forget those who never made it home. This Memorial Day, join us in remembering and honoring their service.