River Bank & Trust is celebrating a new chapter when it comes to helping the people of Alabama with all their banking needs!

The official grand opening to its new Birmingham region headquarters at 1100 Montgomery Highway occurred on March 19, 2026. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, hosted by the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce, drew community members, local business leaders, and bank clients eager to tour the transformed space and celebrate this milestone.

The grand opening highlighted River Bank & Trust’s dedication to blending innovative banking with personal, community-oriented service. Attendees enjoyed refreshments, facility tours, and opportunities to meet the team, including relationship managers who emphasized local decision-making and quick, tailored financial solutions.

Birmingham Region President Brian Ethridge, who has led the bank’s expansion in the area since 2022, reflected on the significance of the move.

“River Bank & Trust, we’ve had a location in this market, temporary location for over three years, and so we have been planning this site to be our permanent Birmingham headquarters,” Ethridge said. “And it’s just in a great central location in Birmingham. It’s full service.”

After more than three years in a temporary location at 1425 Montgomery Highway in Park South Plaza, River Bank & Trust has now settled into its permanent home. The 11,000-square-foot facility, renovated from a former CVS Pharmacy building, doubles the bank’s previous space and introduces enhanced features like drive-through services, a spacious conference room for community gatherings, and the bank’s signature hospitality area offering coffee and a welcoming atmosphere.

“Park South Plaza has served us well as a starting point, but we’re ready for the next chapter,” Ethridge had noted earlier during the project’s announcement. “This new location and facility gives us the opportunity to grow our team, add the convenience of drive-through service, a large conference room, and River Bank’s signature hospitality area so we can offer the full River Bank & Trust experience.”

The event underscored the bank’s positive impact on Vestavia Hills, a vibrant suburb with a strong sense of community. River Bank & Trust, founded in 2006 in Prattville and now boasting over $3.8 billion in assets with more than 24 locations statewide, brings its philosophy of genuine Southern hospitality to the Birmingham market. Clients and visitors praised the modern yet approachable design, which prioritizes personal relationships amid digital advancements.

“Even in a digital world, people still want to know their banker. They want personal attention, trusted guidance, and local expertise. That’s what our team delivers here in Birmingham every day, and with this new office, we’re taking that commitment to the next level,” Ethridge explained.

The relocation represents a substantial investment in the area, supporting economic growth through accessible banking for individuals, families, and businesses. The bank’s community involvement extends beyond finance, as evidenced by recent philanthropic efforts, including donations to Auburn University’s College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment.

With its prime spot along Montgomery Highway, the new headquarters is already becoming a go-to resource for financial services in Vestavia Hills. The successful grand opening not only marked the completion of a multi-year vision but also reinforced River Bank & Trust’s role as a trusted partner in the community’s future.

River Bank & Trust is Alabama’s #1 community bank by asset size and the third-largest bank headquartered in the state. With 350+ team members and six regional markets, they provide financial solutions, delivered by local bankers committed to clients’ success.

A fan-favorite flavor from Tuscaloosa has officially made its way to downtown Birmingham. B’Ham Chicken at the Pizitz Food Hall is now exclusively serving the legendary Irish Gold sauce from Innisfree Irish Pub, bringing one of Alabama’s most recognizable bar sauces to a new audience.

For years, the Irish Gold sauce has been a staple at Innisfree Irish Pub in Tuscaloosa, where it has built a loyal following among The University of Alabama students, alumni, and visitors.

Known for its bold, tangy flavor with just the right amount of heat, the sauce has become synonymous with late-night wings, game days, and Tuscaloosa nightlife.

Now, through a new partnership, B’Ham Chicken is the only place in Birmingham where guests can enjoy the iconic Irish Gold sauce.

The collaboration connects two places that represent different but equally vibrant parts of Alabama’s food scene. Innisfree has long been known as a gathering spot in Tuscaloosa, where the Irish Gold sauce first gained popularity as the perfect complement to wings.

Its signature balance of sweetness, tanginess, and spice helped the sauce develop a reputation that extends far beyond the city.

At the same time, B’Ham Chicken has become a go-to stop inside Birmingham’s historic Pizitz Food Hall, serving crispy fried chicken, sandwiches, and comfort-food classics to locals and visitors exploring downtown.

Bringing Irish Gold into the B’Ham Chicken kitchen allows customers in Birmingham to experience a flavor that has been part of Tuscaloosa traditions for years.

Visitors to the Pizitz Food Hall can now experience the Irish Gold flavor firsthand at B’Ham Chicken. The sauce is available exclusively at the stand, offering a limited but exciting opportunity to enjoy one of Tuscaloosa’s most talked-about sauces without leaving Birmingham.

For anyone who has ever had Irish Gold wings in Tuscaloosa — or anyone curious about what makes the sauce so popular — B’Ham Chicken’s new offering delivers a taste of that tradition right in the heart of downtown.

The city of Birmingham is going to be getting a unique new sporting event in 2026 after city leaders approved up to $1.5 million in lodging tax incentives to host the FISE World Series.

According to local reports, the international extreme sports competition will be held at City Walk from Aug. 5 through Aug. 9, 2026.

The event will feature BMX bikes, skateboarding and other sports, with the Magic City being the only American stop on the world tour for FISE this year. For the rest of the world, FISE will see stops in both France and China.

“This is an international high level urban sports competition that will just by virtue of what it is will be bringing people in from other countries,” Birmingham Councilor Darrell O’Quinn said.

The event, which will last five days, is going to draw both athletes and spectators from around the globe, which of course will benefit the local economy in Birmingham and potentially promote future tourism as well.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has been named to the Forbes list of America’s Best Employers 2026, according to an announcement released Tuesday.

The award, presented in collaboration with Statista, was announced on February 10 and is available on the Forbes website.

According to Forbes and Statista, the rankings were compiled through an independent survey of more than 217,000 U.S. employees working for companies with at least 1,000 employees nationwide. More than 3.5 million employer evaluations were considered in determining the final rankings.

The scoring was based on two types of evaluations — personal assessments from employees and public evaluations from friends, family members or industry peers — with greater weight given to personal evaluations.

Based on the survey results, Blue Cross earned a place on the national list.

“We are honored to receive this recognition and are deeply proud of the incredible team we have at Blue Cross,” said Tim Vines, President and CEO, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. “Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, including how we care for our customers. This award reflects our ongoing dedication to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and empowered. We believe that when our employees thrive, our Company thrives, and this recognition is a testament to that philosophy.”

Company officials said Blue Cross remains committed to fostering a workplace that nurtures talent, celebrates diversity and encourages innovation, adding that the recognition underscores its continued focus on employee satisfaction and workplace excellence.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has insured Alabamians for more than 90 years and offers coverage plans to corporations, individuals and the senior market. The company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

A long-planned infrastructure project to widen the Hollywood Boulevard bridge and construct new sidewalks connecting Homewood, Mountain Brook, and Birmingham is moving toward construction, marking a significant regional effort to improve transportation access and pedestrian safety along the Highway 280 corridor.

Originally built in 1960 as a two-lane structure with no protected pedestrian access, the bridge carries nearly 20,000 vehicles per day and serves as a key link between the three municipalities.

Local officials said the current design has created safety risks for pedestrians who regularly cross the bridge despite the lack of dedicated facilities.

“This is a relatively small but very complicated project, running through three municipalities over a state highway,” Homewood Mayor Jennifer Andress said during a Jefferson County press conference.

Jefferson County Director of Roads and Transportation Chris Nicholson said the bridge’s traffic volume and limited capacity highlight the need for improvements.

“There’s about 20,000 cars that cross Hollywood Bridge… in what is now a two-lane section,” Nicholson said.

Mountain Brook Mayor Graham Smith noted the bridge’s unsafe conditions for pedestrians.

“If you wanted to walk across it, you did it at your own peril,” Smith said.

The project will widen the bridge to add an additional vehicle lane and create a protected pedestrian facility separated from traffic by a barrier wall.

Additional improvements include sidewalks on both sides of the bridge connecting Homewood, Mountain Brook, and Birmingham, along with a new traffic signal at the Highway 280 exit ramp and a turn lane to improve traffic flow.

“We’re going to widen the bridge, create a pedestrian facility, a safe facility behind a barrier wall,” Nicholson said.

Officials said the improvements will provide a safer crossing and enhance mobility between the communities.

The project will be completed in phases, beginning with sidewalk construction along Hollywood Boulevard and in Mountain Brook connecting Malaga Avenue to the bridge. Construction is expected to begin this summer and take approximately eight months.

The bridge widening portion is expected to go out for bid around 2027 and will take approximately 12 months to complete once construction begins.

Temporary lane shifts and closures may occur during construction, but officials said work will be coordinated to minimize disruptions.

Jefferson County officials estimate the bridge widening portion will cost approximately $4 million, with pedestrian sidewalk improvements costing an additional $1 million to $1.5 million.

Funding comes from a combination of federal transportation appropriations, county funding, municipal cooperation, and private contributions from community organizations.

Nicholson said federal transportation appropriations secured by U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) are supporting regional infrastructure improvements connected to the Highway 280 corridor.

“Senator Britt’s appropriations transportation funds… about $4 million… confirmation that those funds will be transferred,” Nicholson said.

The City of Homewood has no financial obligation for the project.

The project has been in development for more than 14 years and involves coordination among Homewood, Mountain Brook, Birmingham, Jefferson County, federal officials, and the Alabama Department of Transportation.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said the project demonstrates the benefits of cooperation between local governments.

“This infrastructure project… is an example of what we do when we work together,” Woodfin said.

Jefferson County Commissioner Mike Bowen said the improvements will strengthen infrastructure and improve quality of life for residents.

“Projects like this strengthen our transportation network… while improving the everyday experience for people who live and work here,” Bowen said.

Once completed, the widened bridge and pedestrian facilities will provide a protected crossing across Highway 280 and improve transportation access between Homewood, Mountain Brook, and Birmingham, enhancing safety and connectivity across Jefferson County.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Amsterdam-based technology company Nebius has filed a building permit with the City of Birmingham for a multibillion-dollar artificial intelligence computing facility that represents one of the largest technology infrastructure investments currently proposed in Alabama.

Nebius submitted the permit application on January 29, 2026.

The filing confirms the company’s intent to redevelop the former Regions Lakeshore Operations Center site at 201 Milan Parkway into a high-performance artificial intelligence computing campus.

City permit records identify the project as “BHM01,” which is currently undergoing municipal review as part of Birmingham’s permitting and approval process.

According to documents, the proposed site sits on approximately 75 acres along Lakeshore Parkway, and is designed to support advanced artificial intelligence workloads and high-performance computing systems.

The permit filing comes as Alabama lawmakers consider new oversight measures as part of the bipartisan three-bill “Affordability Protection Plan,” a legislative package aimed at ensuring large data center developments cover infrastructure costs associated with their operations and do not shift those expenses to existing utility customers.

Lawmakers have said the legislation is intended to balance economic growth with protections for Alabama families and businesses as demand for large-scale computing infrastructure continues to expand.

Nebius designs and operates specialized infrastructure tailored to artificial intelligence applications, including enterprise computing, research, and cloud-based services requiring substantial electrical capacity and advanced cooling systems.

Permit filings represent one of the first formal regulatory steps in bringing the project to fruition and signal that the development is advancing beyond preliminary planning stages.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Two Alabama defense contracts awarded to companies in Huntsville and Birmingham are worth more than $115 million in potential value, reinforcing the state’s growing role in missile defense engineering and military infrastructure development.

Huntsville-based Gray Analytics Inc. and Birmingham-based Brasfield & Gorrie LLC were among the firms awarded contracts announced Feb. 19 by the U.S. Department of War, supporting missile defense engineering and military construction projects.

Gray Analytics Inc., a Huntsville small business specializing in advanced systems engineering, received an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with a maximum value of $59,525,000 from the Missile Defense Agency.

The contract includes an initial task order of $8,800,000, with work to be performed in Huntsville through Feb. 18, 2031.

Under the agreement, Gray Analytics will support the digitization, modeling, and automation of systems engineering processes using a secure, model-based framework. The work will incorporate model-based systems engineering, data engineering, cybersecurity, and machine learning technologies designed to support missile defense systems development and lifecycle management.

The contract was competitively procured and funded with fiscal year 2026 research, development, test, and engineering funds.

The award further strengthens Huntsville’s position as a central hub for missile defense development, where the Missile Defense Agency maintains its headquarters and numerous defense contractors operate.

Brasfield & Gorrie LLC, headquartered in Birmingham, was awarded a $55,506,189 firm-fixed-price contract from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Mobile District.

The contract covers the design and construction of laboratory and office buildings, along with site utilities and pavement infrastructure, in Auburn, Alabama.

Construction is expected to be completed by May 19, 2028. The project was competitively bid, with three proposals submitted.

Funding for the project comes from Department of Agriculture Buildings and Facilities appropriations.

Brasfield & Gorrie is one of Alabama’s largest construction firms and frequently performs federal and military construction projects across the Southeast.

These Alabama defense contracts underscore Alabama’s continuing importance in federal defense operations, particularly in missile defense engineering and military infrastructure.

Huntsville has become one of the nation’s leading centers for missile defense, aerospace, and military technology, while Alabama-based construction firms play a key role in building and maintaining federal facilities nationwide.

Federal defense spending remains one of Alabama’s most significant economic drivers, supporting thousands of jobs and billions in economic activity annually.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Former Mountain Brook High School and Samford basketball coach Bucky McMillan is making an early impression in his first season leading an SEC program, with some believing he could be on a path to a national title.

Hired at Texas A&M following the departure of Buzz Williams to Maryland, “Bucky Ball” has made its way to College Station. McMillan has the Aggies at 6-1 in conference play and on top of a very strong SEC at the moment.

During an appearance on “The Next Round,” former Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Mark Gottfried heaped praise on the Birmingham legend and even offered a very bold prediction for the ceiling of his career as a college coach.

https://x.com/NextRoundLive/status/2016255014310969470

“If you’re not a believer in Bucky McMillan by now, you’ve got your head in the sand somewhere because what a phenomenal young coach he is with the job he’s doing at A&M,” Gottfried said. “I’ve known Bucky forever and I couldn’t be more excited about him…He’s just a blossoming star in my view and I think he’ll win a national championship.”

During his tenure at Mountain Brook, McMillan led the program to five AHSAA state championships before taking the job at Samford, where he compiled a 99–52 record in five seasons and led the Bulldogs to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2000.

Though he may now be coaching outside of the state of Alabama, McMillan certainly has a ton of fans in the Yellowhammer State who are going to keep rooting him on no matter where he goes next.

Birmingham-based operating company Hoar Holdings, LLC has announced a major leadership transition with the appointment of Turner Burton as chief executive officer (CEO) as part of an executive leadership transition with the intention of supporting the company’s long-term growth.

Current longtime CEO Rob Burton is transitioning to executive chairman where he will continue to provide strategic guidance and leadership.

“Leading Hoar for the last 25 years has been the privilege of a lifetime, and I am incredibly grateful for what our teams have built together,” Rob Burton said. “Turner is a proven leader who deeply understands our culture, people and long-term vision. I have full confidence in his ability to guide Hoar into its next chapter of growth and innovation, and I look forward to supporting him and the organization in my new role as executive chairman.”

Burton has been the CEO since 2001 and has overseen the opening of nine additional offices. Most notably was the company’s growth in revenue during his tenure, going from an annual revenue of $110 million to an annual revenue of $1.55 billion.

Turner Burton — a graduate of Auburn University — has been the president of Hoar Construction since 2018 and has served in various roles including vice president of the Alabama Division.

“I am honored to step into the role of CEO and build on the strong foundation Rob and our leadership team have established,” he said. “The values Hoar was founded on and our Envisioned Future to become the most respected and admired company in the industry will continue to guide everything we do. By supporting our employees and fostering a culture rooted in service, we will deliver lasting value to our clients, partners and communities.”

Hoar Holdings manages several other projects that Burton will now be overseeing, including HPM — a program and project management firm with eight offices across the country — and RPI Rentals, a construction equipment and supplies company also headquartered in Birmingham.

“Working together across all our companies to best serve our customers is my top priority in this new role,” said Turner Burton. “I’m excited to continue to build our people to advance their skills, create new opportunities for leadership and align our teams, expertise and resources to support the long-term growth of our customers and our companies.”

Regions Financial Corp. on Monday announced Chief Financial Officer David Turner will retire March 31 following a nearly 40-year career in auditing and finance, including 20 years of service at the bank.

Regions Bank veteran Anil Chadha, who currently serves on Turner’s Finance Department leadership team as Controller and head of Corporate Finance, will succeed Turner as Chief Financial Officer.

Turner was elevated to CFO at Regions in 2010 and is credited with helping successfully lead the company through what was a tumultuous time for the banking industry.

His focus on effective capital allocation and his commitment to prudent risk management were key in strengthening the bank’s position and setting the stage for the peer-leading financial performance Regions is experiencing today.

“David has been a steady and trusted leader through some of the most pivotal moments in our company’s history,” said John Turner, Chairman, President and CEO of Regions Financial Corp.

“His financial acumen, his integrity and his unwavering commitment to making sound, strategic decisions have left a lasting legacy. We are deeply grateful for his tremendous service and wish him all the best in this well-earned next chapter.”

During David Turner’s tenure, Regions has delivered sustained growth, achieving strong earnings and consistent value creation for shareholders. Net income reached more than $1.7 billion in 2024, supported by strategic execution and operational discipline.

The company’s stock price has grown by approximately 320 percent since 2010, and based on third quarter 2025 results, Regions is on track to lead its peer group in return on average tangible common equity (ROATCE) for the fifth consecutive year.

Regions maintains a strong balance sheet, robust capital and liquidity positions and a strategic hedging program that has helped the company manage interest-rate risk while maintaining resilience through diverse market and economic conditions.

David Turner is also known for cultivating strong, engaged teams and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Chadha, his successor as CFO, is a good example, having worked closely with Turner since joining Regions in 2011.

“Regions is well positioned for continued success,” David Turner said.

“I’m proud of the hard work and dedication of our teams over the years to achieve strong financial performance while keeping customers at the forefront. I’ve enjoyed being part of the journey, and it’s been an honor to serve this company and its incredible associates. I’m thrilled to pass the baton to Anil, a strong and capable leader whose deep expertise in finance and risk management – combined with his strategic vision and passion for innovation – will serve Regions well in the years ahead.”

As Chief Financial Officer, Chadha will oversee all finance operations, including financial systems, investor relations, corporate treasury, corporate tax, management planning and reporting, accounting and corporate development.

Most recently, Chadha has served as Controller and head of Corporate Finance and as a member of the company’s Executive Leadership Team. In that role, Chadha has managed financial reporting, accounting policy, accounting operations and all financial planning activities.

Previously, he was assistant treasurer, where he managed capital, funding and liquidity. Chadha also led the Shared Risk Services & Analytics team in Regions Risk Management, which included managing credit data reporting and analytics and overseeing the allowance for credit losses and commercial real estate appraisals and evaluations.

Before joining Regions, Chadha worked in Finance and Treasury at Ally Financial, Wachovia/Wells Fargo and Capital One.

He earned a bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of Alabama-Birmingham and a master’s in Business from the Babcock Graduate School of Management at Wake Forest University.

“I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to succeed David in this position and build on the strong foundation he has established,” Chadha said.

“It’s been a privilege to work with and learn from David, from both a professional and a personal standpoint. He brings exceptional insights and sound judgment to every discussion, while consistently delivering thoughtful, people-focused solutions.”

Chadha is active in the community, serving on the Finance Advisory Board of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Collat School of Business and the UAB Athletics Foundation Board. He is also on the executive committee of the board of REV Birmingham, a nonprofit focused on economic development and revitalization, and the Mike Slive Foundation board.

Chadha is a former Birmingham Business Journal “Top 40 Under 40” honoree and part of the 2021 Birmingham cohort of the Young American Leaders Program at the Harvard Business School.

Turner and Chadha will continue working closely together through March, ensuring a smooth transition and seamless handoff.

“While we’ll certainly miss David’s leadership – not to mention his trademark sense of humor – I’m genuinely excited about working closely with Anil,” John Turner said.

“He brings a deep understanding of Regions’ strategic vision and is fully aligned with our near-term goals and long-term priorities. At the same time, Anil offers a fresh perspective that will help us continue evolving and strengthening our business.

“We are carrying forward the momentum and clarity David brought to our team,” the CEO added. “Regions is well positioned as an industry leader, and we remain focused on executing our strategy and delivering strong value to our customers, our communities, our associates and our shareholders.”

Courtesy of Regions Bank.

One of Birmingham’s very own — Christy Swaid — broke a Guinness World Record.

Jet ski champion, stuntwoman and entrepreneur, Christy Swaid was already extremely impressive, but now she can add a new record to her resume.

Swaid was recently entered into the Guinness World Records as the oldest person to backward somersault on a personal watercraft at the age of 53.

Swaid is no stranger to accolades. She has six jet ski world championship titles, was twice named “One of the Fittest Women in America,” she was inducted into the International Personal Watercraft Hall of Fame and holds the Pro Women’s Slalom world record.

Swaid spoke to Porsche’s magazine about how her Guinness World Record came to be. Swaid said the record followed what she says was one of the most difficult years of her life. In 2020, she lost her mother, father and former coach all within a short period of time.

She fell into what she called a slump and wasn’t able to get out of it until 2024 when a jet skiing opportunity came her way.

Swaid had a “chance encounter” with a jet ski backflip expert who wanted her to try the stunt. “At that time, I was filled with anxiety and felt like a prisoner in a cage of fear,” she told Porsche. “So, I had to do something courageous to break free.”

The stunt took 10 attempts and numerous cuts and bruises, but eventually she was able to flip the jet ski in front of a roaring crowd.

On June 13, 2024, a crowd of spectators watched Swaid accomplish the incredible feat to break the world record at Lake Mitchell, south of Birmingham.

“The first three attempts quickly failed, and during the fourth, part of the throttle lever impaled her left leg,” according to Porsche. “The next few attempts led to further injuries, but her team encouraged her to keep trying. And then, during the 10th attempt, the jet ski lifted off the sweet spot of the boat wake, barreled straight up, and rotated backwards, with Swaid and her jet ski flying upside down through the air and landing back in the correct position on the water. The spectators cheered. Swaid was exhausted and covered in blood and bruises, but happy.”

The story had an even happier ending as well, as Swaid was inspired after the event to start a foundation — Checkered Flag Living — which promotes both physical and mental health.

By the sounds of it, her incredible journey had a happy ending in more ways than one and should continue helping people living life to the absolute fullest.

A new Netflix documentary series will revisit the disappearance of Natalee Holloway, the Mountain Brook teenager whose 2005 disappearance during a high school graduation trip to Aruba became one of the most closely followed missing-person cases in the world.

Nearly two decades later, the series brings renewed attention to a tragedy that began in Alabama and continues to resonate across the state. According to a press release, the documentary features Holloway’s mother, Beth Holloway, who recounts the events from the day her daughter vanished through later developments in the case, including a confession made years afterward.

Holloway, an 18-year-old Alabama native, disappeared on May 30, 2005, while traveling in Aruba with classmates following her graduation. Her disappearance sparked international media coverage and an extensive search effort, and she was later declared dead in 2012.

The three-part series, directed by Dani Sloane (The Menendez Brothers, Girl in the Picture) and Matthew Galkin (Murder in Big Horn, One Night In Idaho: The College Murders), recounts the case from its earliest days through later developments, telling the story through the perspectives of those closest to Holloway. The documentary includes previously unreleased material and revisits moments that shaped both the investigation and public understanding of the case.

The case returned to Alabama in 2023 when Joran van der Sloot was temporarily extradited from Peru to Birmingham to face federal fraud and extortion charges connected to Holloway’s disappearance. During those proceedings, van der Sloot admitted in an Oct. 18, 2023, proffer letter that he killed Holloway, marking the first time such an admission was made in the long-running case.

RELATED: Natalee Holloway suspect to be extradited to Birmingham

Produced by Story Syndicate, the Netflix series examines the lasting impact of the case on Holloway’s family and the broader public. Netflix has not yet announced a release date.

 Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

The local sports community in the city of Birmingham was shaken up this week by news that former WBRC sports reporter Christina Chambers was found dead in Hoover.

Chambers, a longtime reporter on both high school and collegiate sports in Alabama, was highly admired in the local sports media landscape. Since her death, many have posted touching messages on how she impacted their lives.

The latest is Auburn Tigers men’s basketball coach Steven Pearl, who took the opportunity to open his press conference by talking about Chambers and his interactions with her.

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Pearl pointed out how many people had kind things to say about Chambers, from those who knew her to those who didn’t. He made sure those who never got the chance to meet her were aware of just how special of a person she was.

“She was a light. I don’t know if that does her justice. She was a beacon, she was a luminary,” Pearl said. “She just lit up a room every time she walked into it. She was what we should all aspire to be on a day-to-day basis in terms of how she treated people. I think we can all learn something from the kindness that she displayed in her every day life. A true professional in every sense of the word, she loved covering sports in this state…she covered our run to the Final Four in 2019 and I think she was even more excited to be there than we were.”

Pearl began to choke up when he started talking about praying for her friends and family, as well as her three-year-old son who has been left without parents in the tragedy.

“He’s about to endure on a journey that no one should have to go through,” he said. “We tweeted out a GoFundMe on Twitter so anyone that is able to help please do, it’s gonna help pay for his educational stuff and opportunities moving forward. I hope her parents know that if he ever needs to come into our gym, he is always welcome. He’s always got a ticket to the games. She made this world a better place and she made us all better people.”

Legendary former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback AJ McCarron has been staying busy as of late, but his next step might just be the most surprising one yet.

According to the team, McCarron has been hired as the next head coach of the UFL’s Birmingham Stallions just days after former head coach Skip Holtz stepped down.

The news also comes the same week that McCarron announced the end of his bid for Lt. Governor for what he said was a football related opportunity.

https://x.com/UFLStallions/status/2001663978829709734

“I am excited about this new opportunity with the UFL,” McCarron said in a statement.

“This game has given me so much as a player, and now I am ready to give back as a coach. It’s even more special that I get to do that while representing my home state – a state that has supported me throughout my career. Our team will build upon the amazing legacy of Skip Holtz. I have a tremendous amount of respect for Coach Holtz, what he has done for the league and for the Stallions. I am ready to put in the work that will continue producing championship wins for the city of Birmingham.”

It seemed like McCarron knew this was a possibility for him upon announcing his exit from the political race, saying that his upcoming football position will “require the same 100% focus, commitment and attention that I was prepared to give to the office of lieutenant governor, so it is time to end my campaign.”

The Stallions have won two USFL titles in 2022 and 2023 as well as the inaugural UFL title in 2024 before being defeated in the playoffs in 2025, so the standard of success McCarron is walking into is quite high.

Alabama U.S. Senator Katie Britt thinks it should come as no surprise that Birmingham is making headlines this week for its latest big-league corporate get.

It was announced yesterday that Fannie Mae, a federally chartered mortgage-finance giant, is relocating its San Francisco, California workforce to Birmingham, Alabama under the direction of Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte and President Donald Trump.

On Thursday, Britt (R-Montgomery) celebrated that move, saying it will result in high-quality jobs, including finance, servicing and accounting roles relocating to Alabama next year.

“I’m proud to celebrate this announcement today, which reflects the hard work and talents of Alabama’s skilled workforce and pro-jobs environment,” Senator Britt said.

“This move will not only boost economic growth in our state but will also contribute to meeting the housing needs of families across the country.”

While exact manpower figures have not yet been released, officials say Fannie Mae’s Birmingham operation is expected to open in 2026.

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) first announced news of the move yesterday, describing the impact as “hundreds of jobs” coming to the Yellowhammer State.

In her role as Chairman of the U.S. Senate Banking Committee’s Housing, Transportation, and Community Development Subcommittee, Britt has been working alongside Director Pulte to address challenges with the American housing finance system, affordability, and homeownership.

RELATED: Katie Britt taking action to revive a hallmark of the American Dream: Homeownership

“As Chairman of the Housing Subcommittee, I have been dedicated to addressing our nation’s affordable housing shortage, including working with the Trump Administration to identify innovative ways to increase our housing stock and strengthen local communities,” Britt said.

“I’m proud to celebrate this announcement today, which reflects the hard work and talents of Alabama’s skilled workforce and pro-jobs environment. This move will not only boost economic growth in our state but will also contribute to meeting the housing needs of families across the country.”

Director Pulte said Britt’s housing work in Washington is already translating into results back home in Alabama and across the nation.

“Senator Britt has been a tireless advocate for Alabama and longstanding supporter of strengthening our housing finance system,” Pulte said.

As Chair of the Banking Subcommittee on Housing, she has been an invaluable partner to the FHFA as we work hard to bolster access to rural housing and grow the availability of manufactured housing. I’m incredibly thankful to both Senators Britt and Tuberville who have both made Alabama a place we’re proud to be.”

Fannie Mae, formally the Federal National Mortgage Association, plays an outsized role in the U.S. housing finance system.

It purchases mortgages from lenders and bundles them into mortgage-backed securities, a process designed to keep money flowing through the mortgage market and ultimately make it possible for more Americans to buy a home.

Next year, a segment of Fannie Mae’s workforce will be advancing that mission from Alabama.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

It’s officially bowl season for college football, with conference championship week coming to a close and the College Football Playoff field being selected.

The Alabama Crimson Tide is heading to Norman, Oklahoma for a rematch against the Sooners next Friday — for the right to get to the Rose Bowl against the No. 1 ranked Indiana Hoosiers. In the meantime, there will be plenty of bowl game action right here in the Yellowhammer State.

Here are the three bowl games being held in the state of Alabama:

Salute to Veterans Bowl: Troy vs Jacksonville State

Fans in Montgomery will be treated to a massive in-state matchup between the Troy Trojans and Jacksonville State Gamecocks at the Cramton Bowl next week. The two in-state schools each had wonderful 8-4 seasons, which culminated in narrow defeats in their respective conference championship games. Now, they get to battle for state bragging rights in the capital.

The Salute to Veterans Bowl will be held next Tuesday, December 16 at 8:00 p.m. CST.

68 Ventures Bowl: Louisiana vs. Delaware

Perhaps the 68 Ventures Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile does not have quite as much juice, given the fact that it doesn’t have schools from Alabama. Regardless, this should be a tremendous matchup in the home stadium of the South Alabama Jaguars.

Each team went 6-6 this season and is going to be hungry to end the season with a victory. Mobile will host the day after the Salute to Veterans Bowl on Wednesday, December 17 at 7:30 p.m. CST.

Birmingham Bowl: Georgia Southern vs. Appalachian State

In terms of bowl prestige, there’s not a bigger game being played within the state of Alabama than the Birmingham Bowl. The result is two solid programs taking place. After Georgia Southern struggled to find an opponent following a rash of five win teams declining the invitation, they landed on the Mountaineers, who — despite their 5-7 record — will prove to be a formidable opponent.

These two teams know each other well, both coming from the Sun Belt Conference and facing off about a month ago in a thriller that Georgia Southern won 25-23. If the rematch lives up to the hype, the fans in Birmingham are going to be treated to a tremendous showdown.

The Birmingham Bowl will be held Monday, December 29 at 1:00 p.m. CST.

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) says Alabama just got an “early Christmas present” from President Donald Trump and Federal Housing Director Bill Pulte — and it’s coming straight out of “woke California.”

On Thursday, Tuberville announced that the Trump administration will relocate Fannie Mae’s San Francisco office to Birmingham, bringing one of the world’s largest mortgage financers out of a deep-blue coastal state and into the deep south.

“Thanks to President Trump and our collaboration with and confidence in Senator Tuberville, Fannie Mae’s San Francisco Office will be relocating to Birmingham, Alabama. Congratulations, Alabama!” Bill Pulte, Chairman of Fannie Mae and Director of the U.S. Federal Housing Finance Agency, said.

https://x.com/pulte/status/1999174501758554588

For decades, Birmingham has been a powerhouse in banking and finance, and home to Fortune 500 companies like Regions Financial.

In his announcement today, Sen. Tuberville said Fannie Mae’s move is a big step “to making Birmingham boom again.”

“Thanks to the leadership of President Trump and Federal Housing Director Bill Pulte, Fannie Mae is immediately leaving woke California for sweet home Alabama. Fannie Mae is one of the biggest mortgage financers in the world.

Relocating Fannie Mae from San Francisco to Birmingham will not only save taxpayers money, but it will bring jobs and opportunities to our state. Birmingham used to be the financial capital of the South and this is an important step to making Birmingham boom again,” Sen. Tuberville said.

According to recent filings, company-wide, Fannie Mae reports more than 7,000 employees nationwide.

Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Anniston High School students, faculty and staff will have Friday, December 5, off as the Bulldogs prepare to compete in the 4A AHSAA Super 7 Championship — and the entire City of Anniston is rallying behind the team with a full week of celebrations.

Anniston City Schools announced Monday that classes will be canceled, so students, employees and community members involved in the game can attend the 11 a.m. kickoff at Protective Stadium in Birmingham. Officials said the schedule change ensures everyone can travel safely and support the Bulldogs during their first state title appearance since 1994.

Superintendent Dr. D. Ray Hill also shared a special announcement on social media, addressing families at Cobb Preparatory Academy, Randolph Park Elementary, Golden Springs Elementary School, Anniston Middle School and Anniston High School as excitement builds across the district.

The City of Anniston released its own championship-week schedule, encouraging residents and businesses to show their support throughout the week:

• Monday — Home Town Pride Day: Families are encouraged to decorate porches, doors, yards, windows and storefronts in red and black and share photos using #BulldogsBelieve or text submissions to the city. A community montage will be released Monday evening.
• Tuesday — Throwback Tuesday: The city is spotlighting memories, photos and players from the 1989 and 1994 championship teams, inviting residents and former athletes to share their stories.
• Wednesday — Bulldog Business Pride: Local businesses are decorating storefronts in team colors or displaying “Go Bulldogs!” signage, with the city showcasing the best photos online.
• Thursday — Team Send-Off: The community is invited to join the official send-off at Anniston High School at 10 a.m.
• Friday — Championship Gameday: Residents are asked to wear Anniston colors citywide before traveling to Birmingham to PACK Protective Stadium for the 11 a.m. kickoff.

City officials said the weeklong festivities are designed to “lift our boys up and show Alabama exactly what Anniston pride looks like” as the Bulldogs fight for a championship title.

The makeup day for the school closure is set for February 16, 2026.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

The Alabama Forestry Association has thrown its support behind Katherine Robertson in the 2026 race for Alabama Attorney General.

Robertson, who serves as Chief Counsel for Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, has held her current position for nearly a decade.

According to AFA, her background includes serving as Vice President at the Alabama Policy Institute and earlier as a clerk and counsel to former U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

AFA President & CEO Chris Isaacson praised Robertson’s background and longstanding ties to the industry.

“I have known Katherine since early on in her career when she worked with Senator Sessions, and over the course of that friendship, I have come to deeply respect her intellect and tenacity and commitment to the integrity of the values she learned from growing up in rural Alabama,” Isaacson said.

Issacson added that Robertson’s work on federal regulatory issues has shaped her reputation.

“Our members have had the pleasure of watching and participating in her career and recognize that her understanding of issues critical to forestry makes her uniquely qualified for this important next step. Her participation in the state’s fight to reign in the overreach of the Federal Government, whether it was the proposed listing of the dusky gopher frog or curbing the onslaught of COVID mandates, is appreciated and we are proud to support her as she seeks to be Alabama’s next Attorney General.”

Robertson thanked the AFA for their endorsement.

“I couldn’t be prouder to receive the endorsement of the Alabama Forestry Association in my campaign for Attorney General,” she said.

“As a daughter of the Black Belt and with family roots in forestry, my relationship with foresters has always been extra special. But it’s not just our shared love of the woods that is meaningful, it’s our shared commitment to protecting the private property rights of Alabamians and further ensuring that government does not deprive landowners here—like my family—from utilizing their forestland the way that they see fit. During my tenure at the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, we have played a consequential role in thwarting federal overreach into private property use. The Alabama Forestry Association knows what they’re getting with my leadership—they know that I have no plans of slowing down.”

Robertson lives in Birmingham with her husband, Ryan, and their two children. A Selma native and eighth-generation Dallas County resident, she graduated from Auburn University before earning her law degree from the University of Alabama School of Law.

Robertson is seeking the Republican nomination for Attorney General in the May 19, 2026 primary election.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

For nearly 30 years, Colonel David Etheredge served in the skies as part of the Alabama Air National Guard.

A Birmingham-based pilot and former Commander of the 117th Maintenance Group, Etheredge led more than 300 airmen responsible for maintaining and flying KC-135R refueling aircraft that supported missions around the world.

Today, he lives in Birmingham with his wife, Laura Clark, and they share four wonderful daughters.

His path to aviation began early. “I get that from my dad’s side,” he said. “My father was a retired Army Reserve, and several of my uncles fought in World War II. I didn’t really want to do the Army—I wanted to fly, and the Air Force was the best place to do that.”

Etheredge said his childhood experiences helped spark that dream.

“Those same uncles who were from Georgia would always come to our family reunions here in Alabama way back in the day,” he recalled. “I always thought it was super cool.” That interest led him to earn his private pilot’s license before joining the Alabama Air Guard in Birmingham.

“I was selected to go to pilot training with them and fly the KC-135 air refuelers,” he said. “That was in ’93, and I retired in ’22—so about 28 years and some change.”

During those years, Etheredge flew combat and support missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and served as an Air Force accident investigator and safety officer. One flight he recalls most vividly was a medical evacuation from Guam to Hawaii following a B-2 stealth bomber crash.

“One pilot was fine, but the other had back injuries,” he said. “We landed, picked him up, and took him to Hawaii. He was having chest issues, and we had to worry about the cabin altitude, but we got him there and he completely recovered. That was definitely one of the most rewarding missions.”

Etheredge’s experience in aviation safety has made recent news of the MD-11 crash in Louisville deeply personal. He currently flies that same aircraft model and knew two of the three pilots on board.

“I flew with one of them back in July or August,” he said. “His name was Lee Truitt—he was a young guy with three kids. All of them were professionals, well-liked. It’s an absolute tragedy.”

Etheredge said the MD-11 fleet has been grounded until the investigation is complete. “I’m glad they grounded the airplanes until they figure out exactly what happened,” he said. “You try to compartmentalize that stuff, but your family and friends still ask, ‘Are you sure you want to do this?’”

Since his retirement from the Guard in 2022, Etheredge has continued to fly for UPS. The transition was smooth, he said, because he’d spent nearly a decade balancing both roles. “I’ve basically been going back and forth for most of my career,” he said. “It’s actually a little easier now because I’m not out of town as much.”

When asked what Veterans Day means to him, Etheredge reflected on the shared sacrifices of those who serve.

“Everybody always says, ‘thank you for your service,’” he said. “To me, it’s honoring people who put the uniform on and served. Not everybody’s deployed, but everybody’s made a sacrifice as far as family. I’ve just been proud to serve. Most of my best friends are ex-military I’ve deployed with—it definitely builds a bond.”

Etheredge is a veteran of multiple operations, including Joint Forge, Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, Northern Watch, Southern Watch, Inherent Resolve, Freedom’s Sentinel, and Noble Eagle. Over his career, he has flown more than 220 combat and combat support sorties in the KC-135 and logged more than 10,000 military and civilian flying hours.

In addition to his operational experience, he served as a Flying Safety Officer, Aircraft Mishap Investigator, and Safety and Accident Investigation Board President. A highly decorated pilot, his honors include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, and Aerial Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster.

Despite his long list of commendations, Etheredge views them as symbols of shared effort rather than personal glory.

“The Air Medal recognizes combat missions and combat support,” he said. “The Legion of Merit kind of takes in your entire career. I’m honored to have gotten them both.”

Asked what he would tell young Alabamians thinking about joining the military, Etheredge offered the kind of steady, straightforward advice that only experience can teach.

“Do your research and realize what you’re getting into,” he said. “It can be very challenging, and you’re going to have to give 110%. You’ll have to make sacrifices with family and time, but it’s truly rewarding. You meet a lot of good people, and you get great training in whatever career field you choose.”

He encourages young people to consider the Air Guard not just for flight, but for the wide range of skills it offers.

“If you don’t want to fly, you can be a mechanic, work in maintenance, finance, HR, or security police,” he said. “Whatever your interests or talents are, there’s a place for you. Even if you just want to do it for college money, it’s worth it.”

After nearly three decades in uniform, Etheredge said the years have left him grateful—and grounded. “It’s been extremely rewarding,” he said. “I don’t regret a single minute of it.”

Thank you to all veterans who have sacrificed their time and so much more to protect the freedoms we have today.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

Birmingham resident Tasha Gray recently appeared on the October 6, 2025, episode of “Wheel of Fortune”, bringing a touch of Alabama pride to the popular game show.

Although she didn’t win the top prize, Gray’s positive attitude and enthusiasm stood out to viewers. According to a recap of the episode below, she described herself as a basketball wife and mother whose husband played the sport during his Navy service.

Even without the big win, Gray’s participation showed that Alabama continues to be well represented on one of America’s most enduring television shows.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

After months of national expansion announcements, U.S. Steel has confirmed a $75 million investment in its Fairfield Tubular Operations, a move U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt agree is a big win for Alabama.

“More manufacturing is coming to Sweet Home Alabama,” Tuberville (R-Auburn) wrote. “[U.S. Steel’s] massive $75 MILLION investment in Fairfield is a huge WIN for our state.”

https://x.com/SenTuberville/status/1985417226162143236

“U.S. Steel’s $75 million investment in the Fairfield Premium Thread Line will bring jobs to our great state, enhance American-made manufacturing, and strengthen our nation’s energy leadership,” Senator Britt (R-Montgomery) wrote.

“Proud to see United States Steel Corporation’s commitment to growth and innovation in Alabama.

The investment, approved by the company’s Board of Directors, will fund a state-of-the-art Premium Thread Line facility designed to increase threading capacity, improve automation, and enhance safety at the Fairfield plant.

U.S. Steel President and CEO David B. Burritt said the project represents a milestone for both the company and American manufacturing.

“U.S. Steel’s investment in the Fairfield Premium Thread Line is a bold step forward for American manufacturing, our workforce, and our communities,” Burritt said. “This project exemplifies our commitment to growth, innovation, and delivering high-quality products made in the USA.”

Located just west of Birmingham, the Fairfield Tubular Operations specializes in producing high-quality steel pipe and tube products serving the energy sector, including oil and gas customers. According to the company, the new facility will strengthen U.S. Steel’s position in the market while supporting local employment.

RELATED: Alabama set to benefit from U.S. Steel’s $11 billion national expansion

“The Fairfield Premium Thread Line marks a pivotal advancement for U.S. Steel Tubular Solutions and our customers,” said Scott Dorn, Senior Vice President of Tubular Solutions. “We’re strengthening our ability to deliver high-quality, American-made tubular products with greater efficiency and reliability.”

The project is expected to create 44 permanent jobs, with about 250 construction jobs during the buildout phase. The facility will include modern environmental controls to reduce emissions and improve safety.

U.S. Steel says the expansion is part of a broader national investment strategy in partnership with Nippon Steel, aimed at “forging the future” of American manufacturing.

The company, founded in 1901, is headquartered in Pittsburgh, and serves multiple sectors from automotive to energy.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

University of Alabama at Birmingham Health System has named experienced health care executive Janet Hadar as its next chief operating officer, effective Jan. 12, 2026.

Hadar joins UAB Health System with more than 20 years of health care experience leading clinical operations, ambulatory campuses, service lines, system integration and community engagement projects.

Most recently, Hadar served as the president and CEO of University of North Carolina Hospitals, where she has led a regional portfolio of academic and community hospitals.

Hadar held key leadership roles across the UNC Health enterprise, including senior vice president of Operations for the medical center and system hospitals and vice chair for Clinical Integration for the UNC Department of Medicine.

Under Hadar’s leadership, UNC Hospitals achieved improved rankings, including a CMS 5-star rating; expanded mental and behavioral health access by developing a new 54-bed Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health hospital; and partnering with physician leaders to enhance behavioral health services to communities across the state.

Hadar managed a portfolio of $1 billion in capital infrastructure investments to enhance and build new medical facilities, including a new surgical hospital.

“UAB’s mission to serve people and make a positive difference in as many lives as possible as a leader in health care and in the community fits perfectly with my experience and passions,” Hadar said. “I am humbled and excited about this opportunity and look forward to building meaningful relationships with physicians, staff, patients and partners across the UAB Medicine enterprise.”

As COO of UAB Health System, Hadar will help shape the strategy for and oversee the operations of UAB Hospital and Ambulatory Services, UAB St. Vincent’s, UAB Medical West and related support services and provide valuable operational guidance to the UAB Health System-managed hospitals across the state.

“Janet’s proven leadership excellence and depth of expertise will enhance our ability to serve patients, employees and communities across the state as we continue to deliver on our mission of providing life-changing care,” said UAB Health System CEO Dawn Bulgarella.

“Her wealth of experience as a leader in a large, complex health system that has effectively combined the value of an academic medical center and community hospitals in serving the health care needs of the community will be invaluable — particularly given the recent addition of UAB St. Vincent’s.”

The UAB Health System is the largest health system in Alabama and continues to expand its reach and impact across the state, now operating as a nearly $7.5 billion enterprise with 133 locations serving all 67 counties in Alabama and beyond.

In November 2024, UAB Health System acquired St. Vincent’s Health System, increasing its total bed count to 3,173. The system now includes UAB Hospital, UAB St. Vincent’s, UAB Medical West, Baptist Health in Montgomery, UAB Callahan Eye, and all associated sites of care of the owned and affiliated entities.

With a workforce of more than 30,000 physicians, health care professionals and staff, UAB Health System provides care to some of Alabama’s most critically ill patients and serves almost 1.4 million unique patients.

UAB promotes sustainable rural health care throughout the state by supporting associate hospitals of the UAB Health System, like Regional Medical Center of Central Alabama, Russell Medical Center, Whitfield Regional Hospital and John Paul Jones Hospital.

Courtesy of University of Alabama Birmingham

This weekend brings one of the city of Birmingham’s most beloved traditions back to Legion Field.

The Magic City Classic between the Alabama A&M Bulldogs and the Alabama State Hornets has been played every year as an uninterrupted, annual tradition since 1945 at Legion Field every year.

It is the largest historically black college and university (HBCU) football game in the country, and this year nearly 70,000 fans are expected in Birmingham for the showdown.

It’s a game that brings a huge economic impact as well, injecting nearly $25 million annually into the state’s economy.

Though Alabama State has won the last three editions of the game, the rivalry has a razor thin historical margin with Alabama A&M leading the series 44-42-3.

Prior to the Hornets winning the last three editions of the game — all of which have been fairly close — the Bulldogs had claimed the previous four. The current streak for State is their longest since the start of the 1990s, when they won six in a row.

Tickets can still be purchased here.