Welcome back! Don’t forget your jacket – today’s weather forecast anticipates some challenging winter conditions. For a detailed breakdown, listen to our latest podcast episode featuring a dedicated weather report. Otherwise, continue reading for the rest of today’s news.
Miss Alabama Takes the Miss America Crown
Abbie Stockard of Vestavia Hills, Alabama, has been crowned Miss America 2025. The 22-year-old Auburn University nursing major, who previously held the title of Miss Hoover, bested the competition at Sunday night’s pageant in Orlando, as reported by AL.com’s Mary Colurso. Stockard is only the fourth Miss Alabama to achieve this prestigious title, following in the footsteps of Deidre Downs (2005), Heather Whitestone (1995), and Yolande Betbeze (1951). This places Alabama in an eight-way tie for the eighth-most Miss America wins. Interestingly, Heather Whitestone McCallum, a former Miss America, served as a judge this year, alongside other notable figures including Miss America 1985 Sharlene Wells Hawkes, YouTuber/cheerleader/pro wrestler Gabi Butler, retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Stayce D. Harris, and track legend Carl Lewis. Alabama almost achieved a double victory, with Miss Alabama’s Teen, Ali Mills of Harpersville, named first runner-up for Miss America’s Teen on Saturday.
Auburn University Loses Iconic Eatery
Auburn University students returning to campus will find one less familiar dining option. AL.com’s William Thornton reports the closure of Tenda Chick, a Corner Village establishment that opened in 1989. According to a note left on the door, the owner cited ongoing economic challenges since the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for closing, although the possibility of the brand’s return remains open.
Increased Security at Redstone Arsenal
Enhanced security measures are now in effect at military bases nationwide, including Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, as reported by AL.com’s Sarah Whites-Koditschek. The measures involve temporarily suspending the use of facial recognition technology and the Trusted Traveler Program. Access to the base now requires all vehicle occupants to possess agency identification cards; those without will need to proceed to the Visitor Control Center. With anticipated increased wait times at the gates, drivers are urged to plan accordingly. While officials haven’t specified the nature of the threat, the heightened security follows recent terrorism-related incidents in New Orleans and Las Vegas.
Bo Nix Sets NFL Record
Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix continues to make headlines. Having already set a record for the longest NFL touchdown pass by a quarterback from an Alabama high school or college (Pinson Valley High and Auburn University), Nix now holds the NFL record for most home touchdown passes by a rookie, reports AL.com’s Mark Inabinett. His 18th touchdown pass on Sunday was particularly memorable, as it was deflected by two Kansas City defenders before landing in the hands of receiver Devaughn Vele.
More Alabama News
* A veteran was found not guilty of attempted murder in a 2018 stabbing incident at a Mobile bar.
* A Georgia man received a death sentence for the murder of an Alabama couple during a statewide crime spree.
* A Trussville family’s missing cat was reunited with them after five years.
* A Birmingham apartment complex resident reported issues with rodents and water shutoffs.
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