Overtime Tax Cut Fails: What Happened?

Despite a rare moment of bipartisan agreement and even President Trump's support, the overtime tax cut extension bit the dust. Seriously?

Dale Jackson Weighs In

Want to dive deeper into why this happened? Check out Dale Jackson! He's the brains behind some insightful commentary over at Yellowhammer News. You can also catch him weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN, where he tackles the issues that matter. Tune in!

Uh Oh! Alabama State Systems Hit by Cyber Event!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! The state's Office of Information Technology (OIT) is dealing with a cybersecurity event affecting some of our state systems.

What Happened?

Governor Ivey's office released a statement saying immediate action was taken to contain the situation. They're partnering with a top-notch cybersecurity firm to investigate, secure everything, and get services back up and running ASAP.

Working Around the Clock

The problem was detected Friday evening, and teams are pulling all-nighters to figure out what's going on and minimize the damage. They're investigating the source of the event and reminding all state employees to watch out for dodgy emails.

Usernames Compromised, But...

They are figuring out who's behind this. The good news? While some state employee usernames and passwords were compromised, it's believed that no Alabamians' personal info was snatched. Phew!

Expect Some Bumps

Expect some temporary hiccups like website accessibility issues and problems with email and phone communication. But don't worry, the teams are working hard to get everything back to normal and keep essential services running.

Transparency is Key

The OIT wants everyone to know they're committed to being open about what's happening while they work to resolve this.

Courtesy of 256 Today.

Longshore & McKnight Back in the Studio - And Talking Trojans!

John and Barry are back in the ChumCity studio after broadcasting remotely, and they didn’t waste any time diving into Troy baseball’s epic season!

Undefeated Streak!

Troy's the only team in the nation that hasn't dropped a series this year? That's crazy talk! The guys previewed the big Southern Miss matchup and the upcoming Sun Belt tournament at Riverwalk Stadium. Big stakes, y'all!

A Tribute to Sabu

The show also took a moment to remember wrestling icon Sabu, with a special shoutout to ChumCity listener Dennis Mitchell for breaking the news.

High School Hijinks & Betting Lines

It wasn't all serious though! Expect the usual mix of humor and heart, from reminiscing about high school suspensions to debating the Braves’ early woes and getting down and dirty with some UFL betting lines.

Money Line Magic!

Josh Harris, our very own "Money Line Magician," swung by to drop some knowledge on NBA playoff betting and why he thinks postseason hoops is pure gold. "You get postseason basketball and March Madness… I think it’s better than playoff football in the NFL.” High praise indeed!

Alabama's Global Appeal: Foreign Investment Soars!

Alabama's on a roll! The state continues to be a magnet for international businesses, pulling in a whopping $3.5 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) last year alone. This influx is fueling job creation across key sectors, proving that Alabama's the place to be for global companies!

Jobs, Jobs, Jobs!

Across Alabama, communities celebrated 50 FDI projects in 2024. These ventures promise to deliver over 3,700 new jobs in bustling automotive plants, shipyards, sawmills, and other exciting workplaces. These figures were brought to light in a recent report by the Alabama Department of Commerce.

Half the Battle is Won by FDI!

Get this: FDI accounted for almost exactly HALF of the $7 billion in new capital investment announced across Alabama last year. Now that's a significant contribution to our state's growing economy!

Alabama's Got the Goods!

"Foreign direct investment has become a major catalyst for economic growth in Alabama," said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. "It strengthens our position in global markets because international companies trust our workforce, infrastructure, and business climate."

Making Connections at SelectUSA

McNair and her Commerce team are currently at the SelectUSA Investment Summit, the nation's premier event for promoting FDI in the U.S. They are networking and collaborating with economic development stakeholders.

A Hotspot for Global Companies

Since 2015, foreign companies have invested nearly $30 billion in new capital across Alabama, creating roughly 40,000 new jobs.

Why Alabama?

According to Christina Stimpson, Chief Officer of Global Business, Alabama is “deeply committed to fostering strong international business relationships" through "responsive service, and collaboration."

By the Numbers: FDI Since 2015

From 2015 to 2024, Alabama snagged 246 FDI projects. Auto-related projects are leading the pack, followed by industrial machinery, metals, plastics, and chemicals. Germany is the top investor, followed by Japan, Canada, South Korea, and France.

Alabama: A Global Contender!

"International companies bring not only capital, but also innovation, new technologies, and valuable career opportunities for our citizens," said Gary Walton of Commerce's Global Business Office. "We’re proud to be a destination where global companies can thrive!"

Championing Rural Alabama: A Legislative Win!

The Alabama Legislature tackled key issues affecting every corner of our state this session, with a special focus on our vital rural communities. As Senate leader, I've made it my mission to shine a spotlight on these unique challenges and find real solutions.

Here's a peek at some progress made for rural Alabamians:

Rural Hospital Investment Act: A Lifeline

Rural hospitals are facing tough times, with closures becoming all too common. Access to healthcare is shrinking in these areas. That's why we created the Rural Hospital Investment Tax Credit! This encourages folks to donate to rural medical centers by offering 100% tax credits on their donations. We're talking real incentives for investing in the healthcare of our rural neighbors. Modeled after a successful program in Georgia, this is a game-changer!

Saving Our Small-Town Pharmacies

Independent pharmacies are the heart of many rural communities. But unfair rules have put them at a disadvantage, especially when dealing with pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). These PBMs sometimes force these pharmacies to sell medicine for LESS than they paid for it! We all know that’s a recipe for disaster.

The Community Pharmacy Relief Act levels the playing field, ensuring fair competition for pharmacies of all sizes. This protects consumers from higher drug costs and keeps these essential businesses thriving!

Health Coverage for Alabama Farmers

Our farmers work tirelessly to feed us, but often struggle to afford health insurance. We're talking about bills that can rival mortgage payments! To help, the Legislature authorized the Alabama Farmers’ Federation to offer its members affordable healthcare. This program, similar to those in other states, provides premiums 30-60% lower than comparable insurers. A real lifeline for our agricultural families!

Powering Growth Across the State

The "Powering Growth" legislative package is all about ensuring Alabama can meet its energy needs while creating jobs and opportunities in rural areas. Instead of relying on government programs, it removes roadblocks, allowing the private sector to thrive and strengthen our economy in both rural and urban settings.

A Strong Voice for Rural Communities

We know how important our rural roots are to Alabama. That's why we're committed to keeping these areas strong and healthy, ensuring they continue to contribute to our state's vitality. Rural broadband expansion is ongoing, and the Alabama Growth Alliance is developing a Rural Roadmap initiative to revitalize these communities.

Standing up for rural Alabama is a duty we take seriously, and one we'll continue to fulfill!

Garlan Gudger, President Pro Tem of the Alabama State Senate

Victory for Water Heaters! Palmer's Bill Becomes Law!

Get ready to celebrate, ChumCity! Congressman Gary Palmer's legislation, designed to overturn the Biden administration's last-minute ban on tankless natural gas water heaters, is now officially law, thanks to President Trump's signature!

A Signing Ceremony in the Oval Office

Palmer joined President Trump at the White House for the signing ceremony, marking a huge win for consumer choice.

Palmer's Reaction

"I am honored to witness President Trump sign my commonsense legislation into law," said Palmer. "This is a reversal of the previous administration’s attempt to remove the American people’s choice in appliances, in this case, water heaters."

Fighting Against Government Overreach

Before the bill's signing, Palmer slammed the proposed ban as government overreach. He argued that the ban disregarded consumers and imposed unnecessary costs on middle-class families.

Continuing the Fight

Palmer emphasized that Republicans in the House remain dedicated to advocating for middle-class families and fighting back against policies that hurt them.

Bipartisan Support

Palmer's legislation gained momentum, passing the House with a vote of 221-198-2. A similar bill, sponsored by Senator Ted Cruz, also passed in the Senate.

Crimson Tide Crushing It in the Classroom!

Roll Tide! Alabama's football team isn't just dominating on the gridiron, they're crushing it in the classroom too! The team just set a new program record with an outstanding 3.29 GPA for the semester. Talk about brains and brawn!

Academic All-Stars

But wait, there's more! Their academic progress rate of 998 is the best in the SEC and second best nationwide. Seriously impressive.

Scholars and Athletes

A whopping 103 Crimson Tide players earned a 3.0 GPA or higher this semester. Juggling top-tier athletics and academics is no easy feat, but these guys are making it look good!

DeBoer's Blueprint for Success

It's clear that Head Coach Kalen DeBoer is building a program that values success both on and off the field. The players are buying in, and the future looks bright for the Crimson Tide!

Alabama Cracks Down on Illegal Immigration

As the 2025 legislative session wraps up, Governor Kay Ivey has signed two new bills aimed at bolstering the fight against illegal immigration. These measures seek to eliminate any incentives for undocumented individuals to settle in Alabama.

New Laws Target Voting and Data Collection

Ivey signed SB158, strengthening Alabama's laws regarding noncitizen voting, and SB63, mandating law enforcement to collect fingerprints and DNA samples from undocumented immigrants already in custody.

Protecting Communities and Elections

"Alabama is stepping up to safeguard our communities and the integrity of our elections," Ivey stated. "These bills close a loophole in voter ID laws and enhance law enforcement's ability to identify undocumented immigrants with criminal records."

SB158: Fortifying Voter ID Laws

SB158, sponsored by Senator Will Barfoot, prohibits the use of foreign national driver's licenses as valid photo IDs for voting in Alabama. Previously, state law didn't explicitly exclude these licenses.

Secretary of State Wes Allen's Praise

Secretary of State Wes Allen applauded the bill's passage, stating it "codifies an important common-sense election integrity measure that will protect the vote of every Alabamian."

SB63: Streamlining Biometric Data Collection

SB63, introduced by State Sen. Lance Bell, requires law enforcement to collect biometric data from undocumented immigrants in custody.

Connecting Criminals to Crimes

Bell highlighted a case where DNA evidence linked an individual in custody to a murder in California. "Our Department of Forensic Sciences has a great system and database," Bell explained, "and this is just one more group of individuals to put into that that we already have available.”

Bipartisan Support

Both bills passed the Legislature with backing from both parties.

Alabama Tax Relief: Is It Enough?

As Alabama's legislative session wraps up, a $191 million tax relief package is hitting the books. Groceries will see a sales tax drop (3% to 2%), and baby/feminine hygiene products get a 4% sales tax nix. Plus, some retirees and low-income households are getting income tax breaks. But is that really enough?

Cullman Candidate Calls for Bigger Cuts

Health Allbright, a Republican vying for a House seat in the Cullman area, thinks Alabama can go much further. He's talking serious tax cuts, including gasp slashing the state income tax!

More Money in Your Pocket?

"Hardworking Alabamians deserve to keep more of their income," Allbright says. "Cutting the income tax empowers families to invest in their future and fuels our local economy." He wants District 11 families to have more control over their cash.

Targeting Business Taxes

Allbright is also aiming at the state's business privilege tax, arguing it hits small businesses hard and stifles growth. He believes cutting this tax will unleash local entrepreneurs, allowing them to hire more workers and strengthen communities.

Property Tax Pain

Personal property taxes used in business also get Allbright's attention. He points out that equipment and machinery are assessed at a hefty 20% of market value. For rural District 11, where agriculture and manufacturing are key, this can be a huge burden. He says that axing these taxes would let residents keep more of their hard-earned money.

Can We Afford It?

Allbright insists that tax cuts can be balanced with investments in education, infrastructure, and responsible fiscal management.

Who is Health Allbright?

Allbright owns Brighton Forestry Services and has served on the Cullman County Board of Education. He's pushing for tax cuts, slashing regulations for small businesses, and boosting support for public education. He's nabbed endorsements from big names like the Alabama Farmers Federation and the Business Council of Alabama.

Election Showdown

Voters in Alabama House District 11 head to the polls tomorrow to choose between Allbright and retired U.S. Army Colonel Don Fallin. The seat opened up after former State Rep. Randall Shedd took a new gig. This Republican stronghold in parts of Cullman and Blount counties will be one to watch!

Bee-friending the Planet: Why Bee Health Matters (and What We're Doing About It!)

Our buzzing buddies, honeybees and native bees, are facing some serious struggles. This isn't just a bee problem – it's a big deal for our food supply and the environment! Bees are super pollinators, helping grow so many of the crops we eat. But their populations are shrinking thanks to mites, pesticides, and vanishing habitats. Yikes!

Auburn's Bee Center: Buzzing with Solutions

That's where Auburn University's Bee Center comes in. We're on a mission to keep bees healthy and happy through groundbreaking research. We're teaming up with the USDA's bee experts to share knowledge, analyze data, and train the next generation of bee scientists. Together, we're developing new ways to fight bee pests, figuring out the best wildflowers to plant, and understanding how invasive plants affect bee food.

Tracking Bee Health Across the Nation

The Bee Center leads the U.S. Beekeeping Survey, keeping tabs on bee health nationwide. Our findings have revealed some pretty alarming colony losses, especially among beekeepers who pollinate specialty crops. This info is crucial for informing policymakers and guiding future research.

Global Bee Troubles: We've Got Your Back

We're also keeping an eye on a nasty parasitic mite, Tropilaelaps mercedesae, that's spreading in Asia and Eastern Europe. We're working to understand and manage this mite, so U.S. beekeepers are prepared if it ever shows up here.

Tackling Varroa Mites: A Team Effort

High colony loss and mortality, often caused by another mite called Varroa destructor, is a major concern. We're part of a large USDA-supported project, teaming up with researchers across the U.S. and Canada to find new ways to control these pesky critters. Our field trials are conducted in real-world beekeeping conditions, so we know our solutions are practical and effective.

More Than Just Research: Teaching and Outreach

We're also passionate about education and community involvement. We offer amazing hands-on learning experiences for students, letting them contribute to research, share findings, and engage in outreach.

We connect with local beekeepers and farmers through field days, meetings, surveys, and direct communication. We want to understand their needs and provide practical solutions. Our monthly webinar series and beekeeping videos are just a couple of ways we're supporting our bee-loving community.

The Future is Bright (and Bee-utiful!)

Our upcoming SEBees initiative will provide even more immersive pollinator research and outreach opportunities for students.

Our goal is to make a lasting impact on sustainable agriculture and bee conservation. By working with our partners, we aim to lead the way, providing solutions and inspiring the next generation of bee stewards.

Auburn's Bee Center is a hub of innovation, collaboration, and impact. We're driving change and making a real difference in the world of bee conservation!

Courtesy of Auburn University