EDITOR’S NOTE: Each week, AL.com will explore the best of high school sports in Alabama. We hope you join the conversation.
One high school football player will enter an elite fraternity Tuesday when the Alabama Mr. Football award is presented in Montgomery by the Alabama Sports Writers Association.
Read MoreThe White House claimed victory in a showdown with Colombia over accepting flights of deported migrants from the U.S. on Sunday, hours after President Donald Trump threatened steep tariffs on imports and other sanctions on the longtime U.S. partner.
Long close partners in anti-narcotics efforts, the U.S. and Colombia clashed Sunday over the deportation of migrants and imposed tariffs on each other’s goods in a show of what other countries could face if they intervene in the Trump administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration. The White House held up the episode as a warning to other nations who might seek to impede his plans.
Earlier, the U.S. president had ordered visa restrictions, 25% tariffs on all Colombian incoming goods, which would be raised to 50% in one week, and other retaliatory measures sparked by President Gustavo Petro’s decision to reject two Colombia-bound U.S. military aircraft carrying migrants after Petro accused Trump of not treating immigrants with dignity during deportation. Petro also announced a retaliatory 25% increase in Colombian tariffs on U.S. goods.
Trump said the measures were necessary because Petro’s decision “jeopardized” national security in the U.S. by blocking the deportation flights.
“These measures are just the beginning,” Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social. “We will not allow the Colombian Government to violate its legal obligations with regard to the acceptance and return of the Criminals they forced into the United States.”
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a late Sunday statement that the “Government of Colombia has agreed to all of President Trump’s terms, including the unrestricted acceptance of all illegal aliens from Colombia returned from the United States, including on U.S. military aircraft, without limitation or delay.”
Leavitt said the tariff orders will be “held in reserve, and not signed.” But Leavitt said Trump would maintain visa restrictions on Colombian officials and enhanced customs inspections of goods from the country, “until the first planeload of Colombian deportees is successfully returned.”
The Colombian government late Sunday said it considered as “overcome” the episode with the Trump administration and Petro reposted the statement from the White House on X.
“We have overcome the impasse with the United States government,” said Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo. “We will continue to receive Colombians who return as deportees, guaranteeing them decent conditions as citizens subject to rights.”
Murillo added that the South American country’s presidential aircraft is available to facilitate the return of migrants who were to arrive hours earlier on the U.S. military airplanes.
Earlier Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced he was authorizing the visa restrictions on Colombian government officials and their families “who were responsible for the interference of U.S. repatriation flight operations.” They were being imposed on top of the State Department’s move to suspend the processing of visas at the U.S. Embassy in Colombia’s capital, Bogota.
Petro had said earlier that his government would not accept flights carrying migrants deported from the U.S. until the Trump administration creates a protocol that treats them with “dignity.” Petro made the announcement in two X posts, one of which included a news video of migrants reportedly deported to Brazil walking on a tarmac with restraints on their hands and feet.
“A migrant is not a criminal and must be treated with the dignity that a human being deserves,” Petro said. “That is why I returned the U.S. military planes that were carrying Colombian migrants… In civilian planes, without being treated like criminals, we will receive our fellow citizens.”
After Trump’s earlier tariff threat, Petro said in a post on X that he had ordered the “foreign trade minister to raise import tariffs from the U.S. by 25%.”
Colombia has traditionally been the U.S.’s top ally in Latin America. But their relationship has strained since Petro, a former guerrilla, became Colombia’s first leftist president in 2022 and sought distance from the U.S.
Colombia accepted 475 deportation flights from the U.S. from 2020 to 2024, fifth behind Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and El Salvador, according to Witness at the Border, an advocacy group that tracks flight data. It accepted 124 deportation flights in 2024.
Colombia is also among the countries that last year began accepting U.S.-funded deportation flights from Panama.
The U.S. government didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press regarding aircraft and protocols used in deportations to Colombia.
“This is a clear message we are sending that countries have an obligation to accept repatriation flights,” a senior administration official told AP. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss issue publicly.
Rubio in a statement said Petro “canceled his authorization” for the flights when the aircraft were in the air.
Colombians emerged in recent years as a major presence on the U.S. border with Mexico, aided in part by a visa regime that allows them to easily fly to Mexico and avoid trekking though the treacherous Darien Gap. They ranked fourth with 127,604 arrests for illegal crossings during a 12-month period through September, behind Mexicans, Guatemalans and Venezuelans.
Mexico hasn’t imposed visa restrictions on Colombians, as they have on Venezuelans, Ecuadoreans and Peruvians.
Petro’s government in a statement later announced that the South American country’s presidential aircraft had been made available to facilitate the return of migrants who were to arrive hours earlier on the U.S. military airplanes and guarantee them “dignified conditions.”
As part of a flurry of actions to make good on Trump’s campaign promises to crack down on illegal immigration, his government is using active-duty military to help secure the border and carry out deportations.
Two U.S. Air Force C-17 cargo planes carrying migrants removed from the U.S. touched down early Friday in Guatemala. That same day, Honduras received two deportation flights carrying a total of 193 people.
Colombia is the U.S.’s fourth-largest overseas supplier of crude oil, shipping about 209,000 barrels of oil per day last year, although booming domestic production has reduced the U.S.’ dependence on foreign oil. The South American country is also the U.S.’s largest supplier of fresh cut flowers.
Read MoreThis is an opinion column.
Every so often a basketball game comes along, and it’s more than a game. It’s an event, an experience, an enchanted evening encapsulating every possible human emotion, for better or worse. It’s not one of 18 conference games. It’s one of one. Period.
If you were there and your team won, you can’t wait to get to work on Monday to tell everyone all the delicious details. If you weren’t there, years later, you might say you were.
Read MoreDEAR MISS MANNERS: My former co-worker passed away suddenly about a year ago, and a memorial gathering is finally being held. It is being called a “celebration of her spirit” and is being held at a venue that is usually used for weddings. Should I avoid wearing black?
GENTLE READER: A good traditional funeral includes appreciation of the deceased’s life. But when this is labeled a celebration, Miss Manners worries that actual grieving is pushed aside. She has attended ones that were so determined to be cheerful that anyone who looked stricken, or actually cried, seemed out of place.
Few people will probably wear black to this event, but that should not discourage you from maintaining that symbolic respect. After all, people wear black to weddings nowadays, so it should not seem odd.
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
Read MoreDEAR MISS MANNERS: I have taken note of repeat inquiries about how to deal with not being invited to a wedding — presumably, though not always in so many words, without being a jerk in return. I would like to point out that weddings have gotten exceedingly expensive and that couples simply cannot afford to invite everyone to the reception. In many cases, it is still the bride’s family who pays, and they may have to take on extensive debt to do so.
Why do we expect them to explain their circumstances or choices to us? Why should anyone take personal offense or press for a reason they were not included, much less devalue the relationship? Why not just let it go?
GENTLE READER: By all means, that grudge should be let go. There are many reasons that people do not throw weddings large enough to invite everyone they know.
But Miss Manners does not care for the reason that you cite. It means that the wedding arrangements are considered more important than the guest list.
The customary basics of a wedding — the ceremony, a cake and something with which to toast the couple — are not expensive. But a huge industry has convinced people that they also need exotic locations, elaborate meals, live bands and disc jockeys, along with such silly extras as wedding favors for the guests, as if at a child’s birthday party.
Fine, if that is what they want. It is when they want that more than the presence of people they care about — or whom they know care about them enough to want to attend — that Miss Manners finds their values disturbing. That said, people should accept the fact that not everyone is invited to everything. But it would help if hosts did not flaunt pictures of the invited crowds in full view of those who were not. (And yes, Miss Manners knows that they will consider their online postings to be an essential part of weddings.)
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
Read MoreDear Eric: I had cancer a few years ago and as a result I lost my hair. It grew back in patches, but I still appeared to be bald.
I purchased a wig that was my hair color and my hairstyle.
My dilemma is, I don’t know how to reply to those who compliment my hair not knowing it is a wig. If I just say “thank you” I feel like I am lying. If I tell them it’s a wig, they usually appear embarrassed and wish they hadn’t said anything. Do you have any suggestions?
– Hair Dilemma
Dear Dilemma: I have a friend who sometimes wears wigs. On occasion, people with poor impulse control will ask her “Is that your real hair?” To which she responds, “Of course, it’s my real hair. I bought it.”
I empathize with your desire to not mislead, but you don’t owe anyone any more commentary on your hairstyle than you feel comfortable with. So, in response to compliments, try to practice saying “thank you” or even “yes, I’ve always liked this style” without judging yourself. Remind yourself that if someone is going to feel deceived should they find out the hair they so enjoyed didn’t come from your scalp, that’s a reflection of their poor character, not yours.
Similarly, any embarrassment is theirs to negotiate, too. So, if you want to celebrate the journey you’ve been on by talking about the wig openly, do that with pride. You never know who you might encourage.
Read more Asking Eric and other advice columns.
Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.
Read MoreDear Eric: My husband and I have a close relationship with another couple. Their daughter, two years out of college and gainfully employed, lives with them. When we are invited to have dinner or drinks at this couple’s house, the daughter often joins.
We are not generally informed ahead of time that she will join; instead, the couple says something at the last minute like “We hope you don’t mind, but our daughter will be joining us.”
Actually, we do mind. The daughter is unfriendly and uncommunicative. She barely greets us, or acknowledges our presence, and speaks only to her parents on subjects that don’t include us. This puts a damper on the occasion, as normal conversation among all participants is nonexistent. We do not take this personally; she exhibits the same behavior to other people and has very few friends her own age.
Our friends are aware that their daughter is antisocial. They don’t encourage this behavior but apparently have not insisted that the young woman be nice to their friends during social occasions.
How can we best navigate future invites to our friends’ home? We are happy to suggest our house, or a restaurant, but our friends are perceptive and will recognize this maneuver for what it is: an attempt to avoid their daughter.
– Reluctant Guests
Dear Guests: Initially, I thought that compassionate directness was the best path forward, but upon further reflection I think compassionate putting-up-with-it-ness is the way to go. How often are these invites coming? Once a month? Twice? Spending an evening with your friends’ daughter may not be your idea of a good time, which is understandable, but it’s better than asking your friends to choose between her and you.
It would be different if they were bringing her along to your house or to restaurants. But they’re not. Yes, the daughter has some opportunities for developing a social life of her own. But by your account the parents know this and are likely doing what they can to help ease the transition.
You don’t have to say yes to every invite to their house. And you can initiate plans on your own for just the four of you whenever you’d like. Indeed, it might be helpful if you take the lead on this more. But trying to ice out your friends’ daughter will just alienate them.
Read more Asking Eric and other advice columns.
Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at [email protected] or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com.
Read MoreLike the Fibonacci sequence, where each number is the sum of the two before it, every small emotional exchange contributes to a growing pattern of connection and understanding. In the math of kindness, a supportive word, a shared smile or a thoughtful gesture might seem insignificant on its own but will accumulate into a larger, more complex and impactful web of interaction.
ARIES (March 21-April 19). You’re in a position to offer feedback, support or encouragement. Recall the past responses you’ve received that meant the most to you and echo them now. To honor the scene with specificity will convey deep respect.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Power has many looks; mighty, intimidating, cute, unassuming. A very powerful position is the one that tells the others that whatever offer is on the table, you can take it or leave it. In this way, nonchalance can be power.
GEMINI (May 21-June 21). You’ve compromised more than your fair share lately. Maybe someone has to take one for the team today, but that someone doesn’t have to be you. Let others take their turn.
CANCER (June 22-July 22). You’ll use your talent for turning work into a game, casting people in roles to make a group really interesting or challenging the social rules to amp up the entertainment factor.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). People have their own history, limitations and emotional complexities. These are not reflections of anyone’s worth but products of their past and personality. You can admire someone while accepting their imperfections. Your empathy runs deep.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). You’ll revisit feelings and allow them to surface — a brave, deeply meaningful process. Each layer you uncover brings you closer to understanding and, ultimately, healing.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). You’re cast, willingly or not, in the role of caregiver, problem solver and emotional stabilizer in nearly every corner of your life today. Your role as “the one who makes things work” has been reinforced by your own immense competence.
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). The reason children must be taught right from wrong is that there are so many nuances that seem counterintuitive to our primal instincts. As you navigate moral complexity, keep in mind that there won’t always be one definitive right answer.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). A stellar attitude has you flying over your life, seeing it all with a bird’s-eye perspective, which reveals options you wouldn’t see from the ground. You don’t have to do anything, but you get to do a lot.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). It is impossible to form a deep connection with someone you are trying to impress because the puffed-up version of yourself prevents bonding. Connections happen once egos have deflated and people feel safe enough to be vulnerable with one another.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). Your talent for creating memories is a perk of your curious and creative nature. What serves you in the moment will often also provide the novelty and emotional depth to become a cherished experience your mind will revisit in years to come.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). What can you do to reduce waste? Consider that unhelpful mental processes are a waste of energy, too. Anything you can do to make your thinking focused and efficient is also a force for good in the world.
TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (Jan. 27). Love dances through in your world, gracing life with loads of your favorite kinds of attention. Challenges exhilarate and elevate you. Games fit your talents. More than one person falls in love with your quick problem-solving, broad creativity and attunement to subtle energy. More highlights: a monthslong project that is a mighty career booster, two fun trips and expert negotiation of a lucrative deal. Scorpio and Cancer adore you. Your lucky numbers are: 6, 5, 44, 1 and 19.
CELEBRITY PROFILES: Like an Aquarius, Patton Oswalt is committed to lifting and healing humanity even when the endeavor requires an examination of his own broken heart. Oswalt’s 2023 collection of essays, “Comedy as Survival,” reflects on the transformative power of humor in difficult times, drawing from his personal experiences with loss. Whether making audiences laugh, cry or think, the Aquarian brainiac born under five air sign planets delivers a testament to heart, humor and resilience.
Holiday Mathis’ debut novel, “How To Fail Epically in Hollywood,” is out now! This fast-paced romp about achieving Hollywood stardom is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit creatorspublishing.com for more information. Write Holiday Mathis at HolidayMathis.com.
Read MoreA former Oneonta High School football standout was killed in a fiery crash Sunday morning in Blount County.
Malikih Montgomery, a freshman defensive back at Huntington College, was named to Blount County’s All-County Team in December 2023. He was also named to the 4A Region 6 All-Region 1st Team Selections in January 2024.
The deadly crash happened at 12:09 a.m. in the Summit community of Blount County.
Blountsville Fire and Rescue said they responded as mutual aid for two-vehicle collision with entrapment and both vehicles on fire. Multiple BFRD units responded, and additional units from Cullman County were requested.
Fire officials said both vehicles were off the roadway, and engulfed in flames.
Montgomery was pronounced dead on the scene.
A second victim was airlifted to a hospital and a third transported by ambulance. Their names and conditions have not been released.
Alabama State Troopers are leading the investigation.
“We are very saddened at the loss of our recent graduate and will be thinking of and praying for his family and friends,’’ said Oneonta Schools Superintendent Craig Sosebee. “He was loved by so many and will be greatly missed.”
Sosebee said counselors and mental health therapists will be available for additional support when school resumes Monday.
“RIP to our teammate, Friend, and Brother,’’ Oneonta posted on Facebook.
Read MoreThe Kansas City Chiefs will have the opportunity to become the first team to win three consecutive Super Bowls after defeating the Buffalo Bills 32-29 in the AFC Championship Game on Sunday.
Kansas City will play the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX at 5:30 p.m. CST Feb. 9 at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. FOX will televise the game.
The Eagles advanced with a 55-23 victory over the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship Game on Sunday.
Kansas City responded to a fourth-down, game-tying touchdown by the Bills with 6:15 to play with a field goal with 3:33 remaining, then stopped Buffalo’s final possession on downs. The Bills were 4-of-6 on fourth down in Sunday’s game. Both failures came in the fourth quarter.
The Chiefs have won 17 consecutive games decided by eight or fewer points, including 12 since the 2024 season kicked off with Kansas City’s 27-20 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Sept. 5.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes completed 18-of-26 passes for 245 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions and ran for 43 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries on Sunday.
Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen completed 22-of-34 passes for 237 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions and ran for 39 yards on 11 carries. Bills running back James Cook had 85 yards and two touchdowns on 13 rushing attempts.
Three players from Alabama high schools and colleges got on the field during the Buffalo-Kansas City game:
One team has won three consecutive NFL championship games. The Green Bay Packers won the NFL title contest for the 1965, 1966 and 1967 seasons. In the latter two of those campaigns, the Packers defeated the AFL champion in the first two Super Bowls.
FOR MORE OF AL.COM’S COVERAGE OF THE NFL, GO TO OUR NFL PAGE
Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X at @AMarkG1.
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