History Made: Hostages Freed, Peace Deal Forged!

Remember way back in January 1981? That was the last time a U.S. President played point in a major international hostage release, when Reagan took office!

Well, hold onto your hats, ChumCity citizens, because President Trump just pulled off something HUGE!

A Diplomatic Triumph

On Monday, President Trump was in Israel, front and center as all twenty living hostages were released by Hamas and their cronies. BOOM!

Following the release, Trump delivered what some are calling a historic speech to the Knesset, Israel's parliament – potentially the most significant speech by a head of state to a foreign legislature since Churchill's address to the US Congress in '42. Talk about a moment!

But he wasn't done there! Trump jetted off to Egypt immediately after to meet with over 20 international leaders, solidifying the next steps in his Middle East peace plan. A busy man!

Alabama Reacts!

Folks back in Alabama are buzzing about these world-changing events.

Senator Katie Britt: "A Global Victory"

Senator Katie Britt called it a global victory, stating, "Peace is not just a hope—it’s a reality that we will continue to build upon, person by person, nation by nation… [President Trump] delivered."

Alabama Congressmen Celebrate

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers exclaimed, "Years of prayers finally answered! The hostages are HOME!"

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt noted the historic significance, "The safe return of the hostages and President Trump’s bold address in the Knesset mark the dawn of what he calls a ‘golden age’ in the Middle East."

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore quoted the President, saying the impossible had been made possible: "Thank you President Trump! A true peacemaker!"

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong chimed in, "The hostages are home thanks to [President Trump]— the President of Peace!"

A moment to remember, ChumCity!

Madison County Case Closed?

Remember that Borden Deshler High School injury from August? Well, Madison County's Chief Deputy District Attorney Tim Gann says no charges will be filed. They looked at all the evidence – witnesses, coaches, staff, even texts! Turns out, it seems like an accidental bear hug gone wrong, no criminal intent. So, those online theories about assault and cover-ups? Dismissed as unprovable speculation.

Auburn's DEI Standoff

Auburn's College of Architecture, Design, and Construction is standing its ground! They're saying they can teach DEI topics like social equity and racial justice, despite Alabama's Divisive Concepts law, thanks to NAAB standards. But now, lawmakers are thinking about slamming that loophole shut. Stay tuned!

"Dog the Bounty Hunter's" Son Back on the Force... Sort Of

Remember Priceville Police Officer Garry Chapman, son of "Dog the Bounty Hunter"? He's back! The city council reinstated him after he was fired for that high-speed chase that ended in tragedy in Hartselle. But he's not off scot-free – he's facing a 10-day suspension.

Credit Where Credit is Due?

Obama, Biden, and Blinken are taking some credit for the groundwork of Trump's Israel-Hamas Gaza ceasefire deal. Apparently, Trump's plan created a "peace environment," while the Biden admin let Iran stir things up. Politics, amirite?

Another Arrest in Montgomery Shooting

The Montgomery mass shooting case is still unfolding. Dantavious McGhee, 19, is now facing serious charges – capital murder, assault, the works. And the authorities are saying more arrests are coming.

Shutdown Showdown!

The government shutdown is entering its third week, and things are getting feisty! Republicans are using the shutdown to push for changes to Obamacare subsidies. There's been yelling, finger-pointing, and even a "keep your mouth shut" moment from Hakeem Jeffries to Mike Lawler. Political theater at its finest!

Trump's Middle East Peace Deal: A "Golden Age"?

The Middle East peace deal brokered by Trump has resulted in the release of all 20 living hostages held by Hamas after over two years. Alabama Republicans are ecstatic! Katie Britt calls it a "global victory," Mike Rogers sees answered prayers, Robert Aderholt sees a "golden age," Barry Moore credits a "true peacemaker," and Dale Strong calls Trump the "President of Peace."

Alabama Liquor Costs About to Go Up?

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity boozehounds! Last Thursday, the Alabama ABC Board slapped a new fee on liquor stores, hiking up what they pay to store their product.

What's This About?

The ABC Board, after some hemming and hawing, voted to raise the bailment fee from 72 cents to a buck per case. This means liquor stores will shell out more to keep their cases chilling in the ABC warehouse.

The Nitty Gritty

Initially, there was talk of jacking the fee up to $1.50 by 2028. But cooler heads prevailed, and they settled on a smaller, 28-cent bump starting January 1. Don't get too comfy, though, they're planning to revisit those extra increases in just "eight or nine months."

Why the Pricey Warehouse?

The ABC Board is building a shiny new $98 million warehouse in Montgomery, because apparently, their current digs are too cramped. They're claiming this fee hike will help foot the bill.

Who's Gonna Pay?

It's anyone's guess if this will impact the price of your favorite brew. Some folks are saying it won't make a difference, while others are predicting it'll hit consumers right in the wallet. The ABC Board says it's about two cents per bottle, but it's up to retailers to eat the cost or pass it on.

Lawmakers are Riled!

Some lawmakers are not happy about this whole situation. They're saying the ABC Board kept them in the dark about using the fee to pay for the new warehouse. One senator even claimed the Legislature would have axed the project if they'd known! Talk about a buzzkill.

Auburn's Tough Night: A Silver Lining?

Saturday night was a rough one for the Auburn Tigers, falling to the Georgia Bulldogs in Jordan-Hare. The loss casts a shadow over the season and maybe even the head coach's future. Yikes!

Cam's Day in the Sun

But amidst the gloom, there was a moment of pure Auburn glory. The legendary Cam Newton, Heisman winner and national champ from 2010, had his jersey retired!

A Halftime Celebration

At halftime, the crowd roared as Newton's jersey ascended into the Jordan-Hare rafters. It was a well-deserved tribute to a true Auburn hero.

Newton's Love for the Plains

Newton's 2010 season was one for the ages, and his love for Auburn is clear. The Auburn family always welcomes him back like one of their own.

"A Lifetime of Appreciation"

"Auburn always will feel like home," Newton said before the ceremony, adding, "I gave Auburn 365 days of enjoyment, but Auburn gave me a lifetime of appreciation. Sounds like a fair deal to me."

Auburn's Near Miss: A Call That Sparked Fury

The Auburn Tigers suffered a heartbreaker Saturday night against the Georgia Bulldogs, and everyone's still buzzing about that call.

The Play in Question

Right before halftime, Auburn quarterback Jackson Arnold stretched for the goal line, aiming to put the Tigers up 17-0. The ball popped loose, initially ruled a fumble. After what felt like an eternity of review, the call stood. Many argued Arnold broke the plane, and it was clear as day.

Finebaum Weighs In

SEC guru Paul Finebaum is throwing fuel on the fire. He believes Auburn got robbed by yet another terrible call.

Finebaum's Fiery Words

"It was clear to everyone watching that Auburn scored!" Finebaum exclaimed. "17-0 with that crowd and Cam Newton in the house? That's a win. The impact on Auburn was massive. The coaches could have done more, sure, but two weeks in a row, Auburn's been hammered by awful officiating!"

He continued, "I work for a network tied to the SEC, so I don't like bashing the conference, but we need to be transparent. Good or bad, tell us what happened. I wouldn't mind the SEC admitting they messed up, just be honest!"

Deja Vu for the Tigers

This isn't the first time this season. Auburn felt the sting of questionable calls three weeks ago in their loss to Oklahoma.

Looking Ahead

Auburn needs those calls to start going their way, stat! They've got a huge game against Missouri this week. Could Hugh Freeze's job be on the line?

Local Lawmakers React to Hostage Release & Peace Plan

ChumCity is buzzing with news of the released hostages and the proposed Gaza peace plan! Our own Alabama House Co-Chairs of the Israel Legislative Caucus, Phillip Ensler and David Faulkner, have released a statement expressing their thoughts on these developments.

A Moment of Gratitude and Reflection

"Baruch Hashem – thank God – that the remaining living hostages...are safely back home in Israel," the lawmakers declared. They also offered a "refuah shlema – a healing of body and spirit" for those returning from captivity, acknowledging the "physical and psychological torture" they endured.

Mixed Emotions as Hostages Return

While celebrating the return of twenty living hostages on Monday, the representatives also shared a heavy heart. Remains of murdered hostages are expected to be returned, while others are still considered missing. "May their memories be for a blessing," they stated, extending comfort to the grieving families.

Trump's Involvement and the Path Forward

President Trump visited Israel, addressing their Parliament before heading to Egypt to sign the official Gaza peace plan, which includes a ceasefire.

Disarmament and Long-Term Peace

The lawmakers emphasized that Hamas must disarm to allow for a new governing body committed to peaceful coexistence to take over. "While there is still much work left to ensure a lasting peace, at least for this moment, we can exhale and rejoice."

The Peace Plan's Key Components

The peace plan outlines an immediate cease-fire, a full hostage exchange, a staged Israeli army withdrawal, the disarmament of Hamas, and the establishment of a transitional government under international supervision.

Banana Ball Bonanza Coming to the 'Ham!

Get ready, Birmingham! The Savannah Bananas are bringing their wild and wacky Banana Ball to the Magic City in 2026!

A Whole New Bunch

The six-team Banana Ball league is adding some fresh flavor! Say hello to the Indianapolis Clowns and the Loco Beach Coconuts, joining the OG Bananas, Party Animals, Texas Tailgaters, and Firefighters.

Dates to Circle

Mark your calendars! Montgomery gets the first taste on March 21st and 22nd when the Firefighters battle the Clowns at Riverwalk Stadium. Then, in September, the Clowns and Coconuts collide at the legendary Rickwood Field on the 19th and 20th.

Rickwood's Renaissance

Gerald Watkins, president of Friends of Rickwood Field, highlighted the buzz that surrounded the MLB game held at Rickwood. He said Mayor Woodfin even suggested that the MLB game was the best thing that has ever happened to Birmingham. The return of Banana Ball is another major step following Rickwood Field's $5 million facelift two years ago.

Banana-Mania!

Rickwood is becoming a hotspot for big events, and the arrival of the sensation that is Banana Ball promises to draw crowds from both near and far. Don't miss out on one of the hottest tickets in town!

God's Moving Mightily in '25!

Hey ChumCity fam, get ready for some inspo! God is absolutely CRUSHING it across the globe in 2025.

Warrior Retreat: Epic Transformations

Remember that Warrior Men's Retreat at Lake Martin a while back? Over 130 guys showed up, and let me tell you, lives were changed! Salvation, healing, deliverance – it was all happening.

Unity in Christ

Forget backgrounds, cultures, or appearances. These men connected through the undeniable love of God. Walls came down, and hearts opened up.

Healing and Repentance

Men bravely shared their deepest traumas, and the Lord poured out His healing touch. Bodies were healed from debilitating conditions, and guys repented from sins that had held them captive for far too long. Many made the ultimate decision to surrender their lives to Jesus!

Baptized and Bold

The whole thing culminated in baptisms in the lake, with men cheering each other on as they chose to lead by example and put aside their old selves.

Hope is on the Horizon

Hope is rising in America and all around the world! God's still on the throne, and He's ALWAYS victorious. Get encouraged, ChumCity!

UAH President Charles Karr Announces Retirement

Dr. Charles L. Karr, the dynamic leader who's been at the helm of the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) since 2022, will be retiring in May 2026, the university has announced.

Karr's journey at UAH began in November 2021 as interim president before officially taking the reins in September 2022. His tenure has been marked by vision, deep community ties, and a thriving campus vibe.

A Stellar Career in Higher Education

Before leading UAH, Karr spent 26 years at the University of Alabama, rising to the position of Dean of the College of Engineering. "Serving as president of UAH has been one of the greatest honors of my life," Karr stated, expressing pride in the accomplishments achieved with faculty, staff, students, and community partners.

Driving UAH Forward

During his time as president, Karr has championed UAH's academic mission, boosted research efforts, expanded campus facilities, and prioritized student success. University of Alabama System Chancellor Sid J. Trant praised Karr's leadership, saying he has "positioned UAH for an even brighter future."

Major Projects and Research Gains

Under Karr's guidance, UAH has launched major capital projects, like the new Raymond B. Jones Engineering Building and renovations to the Bevill Center, enhancing cybersecurity research capabilities. A new Track and Field Complex is on the horizon, and funding has been secured for the former Executive Plaza site.

UAH has consistently ranked among the top federally funded research institutions and boasts the largest mobile weather radar facility in the U.S., significantly impacting the weather industry.

Strengthening Community Connections

Karr is credited with reigniting Huntsville's connection to UAH, solidifying the university as a vital contributor to the city. He played a key role in establishing the Air Force/Space Force ROTC operating location and fostered relationships with Redstone Arsenal, Cummings Research Park, and other key sectors.

Enrollment and Academic Excellence

Dr. Karr's passion for student recruitment has led to record-setting freshman classes in Fall 2024 and 2025, filled with high-achieving students. The university has also seen academic quality rise across all student populations, earning national recognition for its Colleges of Business, Engineering, and Nursing.

Athletics and Vibrant Student Life

Karr has overseen a renewed focus on athletics and student life, with UAH earning multiple Gulf South Conference championships. He's a regular at student events, from baseball games to NASA rover challenges, creating a warm and engaging campus environment.

A Lasting Legacy

Karr's achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame. He has served on various boards, making a significant impact on the community.

Trustee Jeff Gronberg, chair of the Board’s UAH Committee, noted, "Dr. Karr has built tremendous momentum that will allow the university to capitalize on the many opportunities that lie ahead."

Karr and his wife, Jodie, will be retiring to Florida. The University of Alabama System will conduct a national search for his replacement.

Alabama Forestry Association Backs Gudger & Ledbetter!

The Alabama Forestry Association (AFA) is planting its flag firmly behind Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger and Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter for their 2026 re-election bids!

Gudger's Got the Goods

Pro Tem Gudger (R-Cullman), a fixture in the Alabama Senate since 2018, snagged the Pro Tem title in 2025 thanks to unanimous support from his peers. When he's not legislating, Gudger and his wife Heather run Southern Accents, a cool architectural salvage biz in Cullman.

"The AFA's backing is a huge deal, considering their rock-solid conservative values," Gudger stated. "We're talking low taxes, traditional principles, and a government that knows its limits!"

Ledbetter Leads the Way

Speaker Ledbetter (R-Rainsville), representing District 24 since 2014, took the Speaker's gavel in 2022. Before leading the House, he made history as the first freshman Majority Leader back in 2017. With a background in the electrical co-op world and local Rainsville government, Ledbetter understands the needs of Alabamians. He and his wife Teresa are proud parents of two sons and grandparents to four.

"I'm truly honored to have the AFA's endorsement," Ledbetter emphasized. "Alabama's forestry industry is the lifeblood of our economy! I'm committed to boosting growth, protecting jobs, and delivering real results for this vital sector."

AFA's All In!

AFA President and CEO Chris Isaacson praised both leaders: "Pro Tem Gudger and Speaker Ledbetter are dedicated to making Alabama a better place for everyone. They've got the leadership skills to tackle our state's challenges. They support our industry, which is a major economic engine in rural Alabama. We are excited to offer this endorsement and look forward to our continued work together."

Mark your calendars! The primary election is May 19, 2026.

Forestry Facts

The AFA represents everyone from manufacturers to landowners, all working in Alabama's massive forestry sector. Forests cover over two-thirds of the state, making forestry the second-largest manufacturing sector, generating a whopping $36 billion annually!