Mobile's Moment: New Era Dawns at Deepened Port!

Big news for Alabama! State and federal honchos celebrated the grand opening of the Port of Mobile's brand spankin' new 50-foot ship channel. Talk about a game-changer! The ribbon-cutting (or should we say, wave-making?) happened on Columbus Day, a symbolic nod to the history of shipping in the Americas.

Deeper Than Ever!

After a $366 million facelift, the Port of Mobile is now the deepest channel on the Gulf Coast. This means it can finally welcome those massive container ships – the big boys of the shipping world! The first ship with a 48.5-foot draft already cruised through the channel last Friday, putting the new waterway to work right away.

Saluting the "Father of the Port"

All eyes were on former U.S. Senator Richard Shelby, affectionately dubbed the "father of the port deepening." Shelby, who served Alabama from 1987 to 2023, had the vision and drive to make this happen.

From Singapore to Mobile: A Vision Takes Shape

Shelby recounted how a trip to Singapore inspired him. Seeing how a deepened port boosted Singapore's economy, he brought the idea back to Alabama. Despite initial concerns about the hefty price tag, Shelby made port deepening his top priority.

Kudos All Around!

Current and former officials showered Shelby with praise, crediting him with both conceiving the project and securing the necessary funds.

What They're Saying:

• Senator Tommy Tuberville: "This project...is a massive win...proud to have the deepest container port in the Gulf..."
• Senator Katie Britt: "Growing good-paying jobs, opening new channels for commerce..."
• Former Senator Richard Shelby: "Driving growth at Alabama's Port has always been key..."
• U.S. Rep. Barry Moore: "... a game-changer for trade, commerce, and jobs..."
• U.S. Rep. Dale Strong: "This investment...strengthens Alabama's position on the global stage..."
• U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures: "...creating more jobs, investments, and opportunities..."
• Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson: "A transformational milestone...supports industries far beyond the waterfront..."

The Future is Bright (and Deep!)

The ceremony's theme? The continued growth of the port, benefiting all of Alabama. Could "Port of Alabama" be the new name on everyone's lips? Stay tuned, ChumCity peeps!

Manufacture Alabama Throws Support Behind Caroleene Dobson!

Alabama's manufacturing community is rallying behind Caroleene Dobson in her run for Secretary of State! Manufacture Alabama, the voice for manufacturers across the state, has officially endorsed Dobson, highlighting her private sector experience and grasp of the challenges facing Alabama's powerhouse manufacturing industry.

Why Dobson?

"Caroleene Dobson's deep commitment to Alabama, proven track record, and understanding of our industry's needs make her the ideal candidate," declared Jon Barganier, president of Manufacture Alabama. They believe she has what it takes to ensure Alabama's business filings and elections are handled fairly and efficiently.

Dobson's Take

Dobson, a lawyer representing various business owners, sees her real estate law background as valuable experience for the Secretary of State role. "Alabama's manufacturers are the backbone of American industry," she stated, "and I'm honored to have Manufacture Alabama's support." She's committed to lowering business costs and backing fair trade to boost Alabama-made goods.

About Manufacture Alabama

Manufacture Alabama represents hundreds of companies, from global giants to family-run shops, all vital to Alabama's economy and jobs. They're the only trade association dedicated solely to the interests of Alabama's manufacturers.

Healthcare's Future Takes Root in Alabama!

Get ready, folks! A new chapter for Alabama healthcare just began with the groundbreaking of the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences (ASHS)! State and national bigwigs joined educators and local heroes to celebrate this milestone for education and workforce development in our very own West Alabama.

Governor Ivey's Enthusiasm

Governor Kay Ivey, a huge supporter of the school and its location in the Black Belt, gushed, "This school isn't just about buildings; it's about unlocking fresh potential for our young people and tackling healthcare needs head-on here in Alabama!"

Bloomberg's Big Boost

The groundbreaking took place on a 10-acre site next to Whitfield Regional Hospital, with Kate Herman of Bloomberg Philanthropies in attendance. Bloomberg Philanthropies is throwing a whopping $26.4 million at ASHS as part of their initiative to create healthcare-focused CTE high schools across the nation.

Howard Wolfson from Bloomberg Philanthropies said, "We're thrilled to back the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences' bold vision. By providing students with top-notch instruction and clear career pathways, ASHS will ensure the next generation of healthcare pros are ready to rock!"

A Local Legend Joins the Team!

In a surprise announcement, we learned that Demopolis native Dr. Selwyn Vickers (currently the head honcho at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York) will be a special advisor to ASHS and its Foundation!

Shaping the Future

ASHS President Dr. Jimmy Martin shared, "We're building opportunity for both young people and the future of healthcare in Alabama. Our goal is to help students find their purpose through service, connect learning to real-world careers, and strengthen our communities' health."

What's ASHS All About?

ASHS will be a residential campus, drawing students from all corners of Alabama. It's joining the ranks of other awesome state-supported specialty schools.

The school is scheduled to open its doors in August 2026 at a temporary location at the University of West Alabama, with the permanent Demopolis campus opening in August 2027. Students will dive into hands-on training, earn industry certifications, and gain direct access to higher education and healthcare careers. Whitfield Regional Hospital is ASHS’s main medical partner.

Exciting details about healthcare focus areas and curricula are coming soon, along with faculty and staff recruitment plans. Applications are already open, and school officials are hosting info sessions across the state.

Courtesy of 256 Today.

Fairhope Bids Farewell to a Legend: Mayor James P. Nix

A significant chapter in Fairhope's history closed this week with the passing of retired Mayor James P. Nix at 88. He leaves behind a legacy etched into the very fabric of this beloved Alabama town.

A Quarter-Century of Service

Nix dedicated 28 years of his life, from 1972 to 2000, to serving as Fairhope's Mayor – a true millennial mayor! Before taking the helm, he served on the city council from 1968. Fairhope City Council President Jack Burrell noted, "Fairhope, Alabama would not be known the world over for its beauty and charm without the vision and leadership of Mayor Jim Nix."

From Nixon to Clinton

Think about it: Mayor Nix's tenure spanned the presidencies of Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush 41, and Clinton! He navigated Fairhope through decades of change and growth.

"The Squire of Fairhope"

Did you know there's a movie about him? "The Squire of Fairhope" chronicles Nix's efforts to transform the town, tackling issues like raw sewage in Mobile Bay and unreliable utilities. He tackled those problems head-on, paving the way for Fairhope's current success.

A Visionary Leader

Assistant Professor Delaware Arif from the University of North Alabama stated, "Definitely, Mayor Nix deserves a lot of credit for turning a small plain town with dirt roads into a model for beautification and calm/quiet community." He saw Fairhope's potential decades ago and worked tirelessly to realize it.

Honoring His Memory

Services for Nix will be held Saturday, October 18, at the Nix Senior Center, One Bayou Drive, Fairhope. Visitation begins at 100 a.m., with the funeral at 120 p.m. Let's celebrate the life of a man who truly shaped Fairhope into the gem it is today.

New Foundation Aims to Rescue Rural Alabama Hospitals!

Hold onto your stethoscopes, ChumCity! A brand-new superhero has arrived to fight for rural healthcare in Alabama: The Alabama Rural Hospital Foundation! This private nonprofit is swooping in to provide much-needed cash and support to struggling hospitals across the state.

Healthcare SOS in Rural Alabama

Jamie Troutman, a savvy economic developer and head of the foundation's board, says things are dire. Several rural hospitals have already closed due to lack of funds, and about half of those remaining are on the brink. That's a LOT of communities facing healthcare nightmares!

More Than Just Doctors: A Boost for the Whole Community

Troutman emphasized that access to healthcare isn't just about physical health; it's vital to the economic well-being of rural communities. The foundation's goal? To improve both!

Brainpower and Dollars

The foundation's board is packed with heavy hitters from Alabama's top health systems, plus business and economic development gurus. They'll use their combined knowledge to get private money flowing to the hospitals and projects that need it most.

Modernizing and Retaining Talent

Beyond keeping emergency rooms open, the foundation wants to help rural hospitals modernize, attract and keep talented doctors and nurses, expand outpatient services, and work more closely with local businesses and schools. It's all about building stronger, healthier communities!

Tax Credits to the Rescue!

Here's the cool part: the foundation is part of the Alabama Rural Hospital Investment Program. That means folks who donate to help rural hospitals can get dollar-for-dollar state tax credits! Talk about a win-win!

The Dream Team

The Alabama Rural Hospital Foundation is spearheaded by an impressive board that includes:

• Doug Brewer, CEO, Whitfield Regional Hospital (Demopolis)
• Dawn Bulgarella, CEO, UAB Health System (15 hospitals)
• Jason Davis, Vice President, Alabama Power – Southeast Division
• Lee Lawson, President & CEO, Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance
• Mark Nix, President & CEO, Infirmary Health (serving 11 Gulf Coast counties)
• Jeff Samz, President & CEO, Huntsville Hospital Health System (14 hospitals)
• Russ Tyner, President & CEO, Baptist Health Montgomery (three hospitals)
• Evie Mauldin, Of Counsel / Senior Vice President, Bank Independent (serving 18 northwest Alabama communities)

Priceville Officer Reinstated After Fatal Pursuit

Hold the phone, ChumCity citizens! The Priceville City Council just flipped the script on a controversial case. Remember Officer Garry Chapman, the one involved in that high-speed chase that ended in tragedy last month? Well, he's back!

The council voted to reinstate Chapman after a lengthy closed-door session Monday night. It was a unanimous decision, folks! Instead of being fired, Chapman's now facing a 10-day suspension without pay. Mayor Sam Heflin took a seat for this one, recusing himself from the vote.

Dog the Bounty Hunter Weighs In!

Things got real when the public was invited to comment. Turns out, opinions were split! And guess who showed up to speak? None other than Duane Lee Chapman, a.k.a. "Dog the Bounty Hunter," Officer Chapman's dad! Talk about a dramatic twist!

What Happened?

Quick recap: Officer Chapman was initially canned after a disciplinary hearing found he broke department policy during that fateful chase on September 6th. He was pursuing Archie Brandon Hale, 40, for suspected DUI and traffic violations when Hale allegedly sped off.

The chase ended horribly at Highway 36 and U.S. 31 in Hartselle. Hale's vehicle collided with another car, tragically killing 17-year-old Tristan Hollis and injuring others. Hale's been charged with reckless murder but, of course, is innocent until proven guilty.

The Aftermath

An internal investigation determined Chapman was tearing through downtown Hartselle at nearly 100 mph, even though he admitted he wasn't familiar with the area! City officials felt he didn't properly assess the risks of the chase.

And get this: Before his reinstatement, Chapman reportedly filed a $10 million wrongful termination claim against the city! Drama, drama, drama!

What's Next?

Hale is still locked up without bond at the Morgan County Jail. As for Officer Chapman, he's got a suspension to serve, but he's back on the force. What do you Chums think of this decision? Let us know in the comments!

Montgomery Shooting Aftermath: Questions for City Hall

With two arrests made in connection to the horrific mass shooting in Montgomery earlier this month, scrutiny is turning towards some head-scratching choices coming from within city government.

Free Booze and Football? Really?

Seriously, Montgomery? The city decided to offer free alcohol at events linked to college football games. Is that really what our city needs right now? Seems like a recipe for trouble, not exactly a boost to our local culture.

Mayor Reed: Time to Take Charge

Mayor Steven Reed clearly has a handle on the crime situation. Handing out free alcohol in areas already struggling with crime? That just doesn't compute. It's time for strong leadership. If Mayor Reed can't get things under control, maybe it's time to call in the cavalry and ask Governor Kay Ivey to deploy the National Guard. We need solutions, and we need them now.

Auburn's Tailspin: Is Freeze on Thin Ice?

Things aren't exactly sunshine and roses for the Auburn Tigers. Saturday night's SEC clash against the Georgia Bulldogs was another heartbreaker, a game they seemed destined to win... until they weren't.

Second-Half Meltdown

Sure, there were calls that could have gone either way, but let's be real – the Tigers offense vanished in the second half. A dominant start crumbled, and Auburn practically handed the victory to Georgia. Sound familiar?

A Pattern of Collapse?

For three seasons now, Hugh Freeze's squad has shown a disturbing inability to weather any storm. When the going gets tough, they seem to wilt. Is this the beginning of the end? Athletics director John Cohen was directly asked about Freeze's status this week, and his response was... interesting.

Cohen's Cryptic Comments

While Cohen stated he doesn't expect Freeze to be fired, his words weren't exactly a ringing endorsement. He compared the situation to his car starting – or not.

Evaluating the Program

Cohen clarified that Freeze still has the locker room and is still recruiting well. However, he didn't rule out future changes. He's looking at buy-in, recruiting, player development, and effort. These are the questions he's asking himself.

Can Freeze Turn the Tide?

Freeze still has a shot to turn things around, but the season is heading south fast. If the Tigers keep losing, the pressure will only intensify. Keep an eye on this one, ChumCity – things could get spicy.

TPUSA's "America Comeback Tour" Hits Auburn!

Get ready, Auburn! Turning Point USA is bringing some serious star power to your campus on November 5th. They're hoping to pack the house with a lineup that includes none other than Senator Tommy Tuberville, alongside firebrands Benny Johnson, Eric Trump, and Lara Trump.

A Powerful Lineup

This powerhouse crew is part of TPUSA’s "America Comeback Tour," a series of events aimed at energizing young conservatives.

Continuing Charlie Kirk's Legacy

The tour continues despite the tragic assassination of TPUSA founder Charlie Kirk. The group has vowed to keep his message alive on campuses nationwide. Kirk was recently posthumously honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a testament to his profound impact.

Remembering Charlie Kirk

Senator Tuberville praised Kirk as an "extremely effective teacher" and "mentor to millions," highlighting the outpouring of support that followed his death. His legacy continues through his family and the patriots he inspired across the country.

Tide Roll On, But At What Cost?

Alabama just snagged another HUGE win, marking their third straight takedown of a ranked rival! In fact, they're only the FIFTH team in SEC history to pull off that kind of gauntlet. But hold your horses, folks, because things aren't slowing down.

Rocky Top Showdown Looms

Next up? The Third Saturday in October against those pesky Tennessee Volunteers. Remember last year's heartbreaker in Knoxville? This is payback time for Coach DeBoer and the boys!

Injury Bug Bites Hard

The victory over Missouri came with a price. Running back Jam Miller is sidelined with a concussion – his second major injury this season. Ryan Williams wasn't himself either, clearly playing through something. And freshman receiver Derek Meadows? Another concussion victim. Even Ty Simpson seemed banged up after that fumble. Ouch.

Offense vs. Defense: A Potential Barnburner

Injured or not, the Tennessee game is going to be a BRUTAL battle. Get ready for a potential track meet, because statistically, Tennessee boasts the SEC's MOST potent offense and LEAST effective defense. Alabama's looking to exploit that weakness, but...

Secondary Concerns?

...the Tide's secondary has shown vulnerability this year. And this isn't the first time they've faced a Josh Heupel-led offensive juggernaut.

Grinding Towards Glory

Alabama's schedule is absolutely INSANE, but DeBoer's undefeated run at Bryant-Denny is still intact. Extending that streak would be MASSIVE in their quest for a return to Atlanta and a playoff berth.

Defense Needs To Rise

Since the Florida State scare, the defense has stepped up when it counts. But this Tennessee game is their BIGGEST test yet. They need to set the tone and keep this from turning into a 50-burger shootout.

Cigar Time?

If Alabama can pull off the W, that victory cigar is gonna taste EXTRA sweet for DeBoer. A win over the Vols, after this insane stretch of games? That's legendary stuff. But it's gonna take everything they've got!