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The Elusive Water of Wisdom

Remember that story David Foster Wallace told? Two young fish swim along, bump into an older fish who greets them, "Morning, boys. How’s the water?" The young fish swim on, and one turns to the other and asks, "What the hell is water?"

That little parable, decades later, still hits hard. The most obvious, crucial things in life are often the hardest to even see, let alone understand.

Like water, wisdom surrounds us. We know it's important, but it's invisible, odorless, formless. It slips through our fingers. I think true wisdom isn't about what we say, but how we listen.

Listening: The Lost Art

Columnist David Brooks nailed it: Wisdom isn't about dropping clever one-liners. It's about connection. Wise people have this way of paying attention, even when they're silent. They "start by witnessing our story," he says.

Wisdom doesn't boom out of a megaphone; it whispers from a place of deep listening, of simply being there. Eastern traditions have been hip to this for ages, while Western culture's been all about rhetoric and big pronouncements.

Drowning in Data, Starving for Wisdom

E.O. Wilson said it back in '82: "We are drowning in information, while starving for wisdom.” And it's a million times worse now. The information we churn out daily would stack to the moon and back...ten times!

Real wisdom is quiet. It's knowing when to talk, but more importantly, when to listen. It's about connecting on a deeper level, tuning into what's really being said, even when no one's speaking.

The Smartphone Sabotage

So, if listening equals wisdom, why are we so terrible at it? Blame our smartphones! For almost twenty years, they’ve been training us to interrupt. Interruptions used to be rude; now they're the default. These constant disruptions have made us impatient, uncomfortable with silence.

Wise people get that connection is where the magic happens. It's letting people finish their thoughts, because often, they're just processing. When we interrupt, we hijack that process and kill the chance for real connection.

The Power of Presence

When wise people speak, they don't rush. They're thoughtful, considerate. They listen first, and then move slowly toward conclusions. By simply listening, they "teach" others to reach their own conclusions too.

In our noisy, distracted world, there's a huge hunger for authentic connection, for relationships that go beyond the surface noise. And that brings us back to Wallace's water. Wisdom is like water not just because it's invisible, but because it supports and sustains without shouting for attention.

Like water, wisdom creates the conditions for life and growth while staying humble. The wisest among us aren't the loudest voices. They're the ones who've mastered the increasingly rare art of being present, listening deeply, and creating spaces where others can find their own way.

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Groundbreaking News: Jasper's About to Get a Whole Lot Smarter!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! A brand-spankin' new educational powerhouse is on its way to Jasper. The Heman Drummond Center of Innovation (HDCI) broke ground this week, promising to revolutionize workforce development for Alabama's high schoolers.

Setting the Stage for Success

Located at 3515 Industrial Way, smack-dab in the heart of Jasper’s Industrial Park, the HDCI is perfectly positioned for student-industry hookups. Get ready, because this $80 million, 120,000-square-foot facility is gearing up to welcome its first class in the fall of 2026! The Walker Area Community Foundation is building it, but once it's ready, the Walker County School System will take the reins.

Governor Ivey's Got the Inside Scoop

"This Heman Drummond Center of Innovation is gonna be the BEST career tech example in Alabama, y'all," declared Governor Kay Ivey. "It's not just changing lives; it's opening doors at the PERFECT time. Alabama's job market is BOOMING, and we need more skilled workers. This center? It's a life-changing GIFT!"

Skills, Skills, and More Skills!

When it's finished, the HDCI will be training around 2,100 students in all sorts of high-demand fields: cyber IT, robotics, healthcare, automotive, and construction. We're talking hands-on learning, industry certifications, college-level courses, and real-world gigs like mentorships and internships.

More Than Just Tech

But wait, there's more! The center will also feature interdisciplinary projects, an entrepreneurship incubator (hello, future CEOs!), and tons of community partnerships, all designed to make students ready for careers AND college.

A Mission with Heart

The goal? Generational change! By equipping students with the skills they need, the HDCI aims to build a thriving workforce and boost the local economy. Local leaders, school officials, and education gurus all agree: this CTE school is essential for the region's future.

What's on the Curriculum?

Think specialized academies in coding, digital media, cybersecurity, and biotechnology, all loaded with the latest tools and software. Students will also get hooked up with entrepreneurial resources like workshops on business planning and marketing.

Almost There!

Funding's looking good—85% secured so far! The remaining 15% is being chased down through grants, partnerships, and community support. Get ready, Walker County! Big things are coming!

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University Beach Resort Clears Hurdle in Northport!

Hold on to your beach towels, ChumCity! The Northport City Council just gave the thumbs-up to the University Beach resort development, but not without a splash of controversy! Despite some serious pushback from locals, the council narrowly approved the rezoning and special district plan in a 3-2 vote after a lively two-hour public pow-wow. ABC 33/40 was all over it!

What's the Deal with University Beach?

Sprawling across 76.2 acres near the Tuscaloosa National Airport, this resort is aiming for major fun! Think water park, hotel, housing, tasty eats, and shopping galore. Supporters are saying it could draw a whopping 660,000 visitors annually and pump a cool $61 million in tax revenue into Northport over the next decade (a projected $254 million over 30 years!). Cha-ching!

Not Everyone's Happy...

But hold up! Some residents aren't exactly thrilled, arguing that a resort this big doesn't quite jive with Northport's vibe and current infrastructure. Concerns about population density, traffic nightmares, and the long-term vision for the city were voiced loudly at the meeting.

Council Members Weigh In

Even some council members had their doubts! Councilwoman Jamie Dykes questioned the project's financial transparency, and Councilman Anwar Akin worried about potential flooding after all the rain we've been having.

Moving Forward (With Amendments!)

Despite a prior thumbs-down from the Planning and Zoning Commission, the project is moving on. The council tweaked the special district plan to better align with zoning rules, nixing some storage allowances that weren't originally part of the deal. Buckle up, Northport – University Beach is coming!

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Rick Pate Eyes Lieutenant Governor Run!

Alabama's Agriculture Commissioner, Rick Pate, is seriously thinking about throwing his hat in the ring for Lieutenant Governor in 2026! According to Alabama Daily News, he's expected to make an official announcement sometime in early June.

Why LG?

Pate, a Republican, says he's leaning towards running because he wants to keep serving Alabama. He's got solid connections with folks in the State Senate, which he thinks would be a real asset.

Got More to Give

"I believe I could make a meaningful contribution," Pate told the news source. Nearing the end of his stint as Ag Commissioner (his second and final term), he feels like he's still got plenty to offer the good people of Alabama.

Governor? Nah.

While some folks mentioned him as a possible candidate for Governor, Pate says that's probably not happening. U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville's likely run plays a big part. Going up against a name like that would cost a small fortune!

Background Check

Pate hails from Lowndes County and even spent 14 years as the mayor of Lowndesboro! Plus, he's got experience running Pate Landscaping Co. and managing a cattle farm. This guy knows Alabama!

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ChumCity News Roundup

Here's the lowdown on what's making waves:

Trump's South Africa Video Shakes Things Up

Word is President Trump showed President Ramaphosa a video highlighting problems faced by white farmers in South Africa. The media's reportedly not too happy about it.

Alabama Trooper Busted in Drug Ring

An Alabama state trooper and three others were found guilty in a cocaine trafficking scheme connected to Mexico. Ouch.

"Golden Dome" Missile Defense System Gets Green Light

President Trump's plan includes a hefty $25 billion for the "Golden Dome" missile defense. Congressman Dale Strong hints Redstone Arsenal in Alabama might be a key player.

Shooting at Israeli Embassy Sparks Outrage

A shooting near the Israeli Embassy in DC resulted in the loss of two staffers at the Capital Jewish Museum. The alleged terrorist yelled "Free Palestine" during the attack and arrest.

Marshall Praises Trump's Border Security

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall checked out the southern border and gave President Trump's immigration crackdown a thumbs up.

Illegal Immigrant Families Pulling Kids from Schools

Due to stricter immigration enforcement, illegal immigrant families are leaving U.S. schools, hitting Alabama communities. Seems to be the desired effect.

Club for Growth Backs Tuberville for Guv?

Before he's even announced, the Club for Growth is already endorsing Senator Tommy Tuberville for the 2026 Alabama governor's race. With Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth sitting this one out, is it already a done deal?

Dale Jackson, Yellowhammer News thought leader and WVNN talk show host (weekdays 5-9 a.m.), keeps us informed.

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Local Attorney Jay Welborn Announces Run for District Judge!

Shelby County, get ready! Jarred “Jay” Welborn, a local attorney and small business owner, has officially thrown his hat in the ring for District Court Judge, Place 3. This new judgeship was created to handle the growing caseloads in our booming county.

Why Welborn?

Welborn says Shelby County needs a judge with broad experience. "This isn't just a job," he stated, "it's a calling!" He emphasizes his dedication to serving people from all walks of life.

A Well-Rounded Background

Welborn isn't just familiar with the law; he's managed businesses, represented clients at almost every court level in Alabama, and worked in legal roles for the state. He knows how to work hard and lead with fairness.

Committed to Shelby County

He's the former President of the Shelby County Bar Association and currently chairs the Executive Board for CASA of Shelby County. He actively volunteers with the Shelby County Children’s Policy Council and more.

Not a Stepping Stone

Welborn insists this position is where he wants to be. "My passion is here, where fairness and compassion matter most." He believes he's been prepared for this role through years of experience and wants to give back to the community he loves.

Get Ready to Vote!

Welborn is a proud member of the Alabama and Shelby County Republican Parties. Mark your calendars: the Alabama Republican Party primary is on May 19, 2026.

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Last Call for Workforce Innovators!

Alabama businesses, your chance to mold the future workforce is almost here! The Innovate Alabama Talent Pilot Program application deadline is this Friday at 5 p.m. CST. Don't miss out!

Sparking Talent Development

This one-year pilot program is all about backing Alabama industry partners eager to launch and test cutting-edge, work-based talent development models. Think paid internships, STEM-tastic education, and hands-on entrepreneurship – all designed to supercharge Alabama's talent pipeline.

What Makes a Winning Proposal?

Your proposal should be:

  • Led by an Alabama-based industry heavyweight focused on talent development.
  • Targeting students or educators across K-12, higher education, or the adult workforce.
  • Heavy on STEM and/or entrepreneurship.
  • Packed with clear goals, measurable results, and a plan to scale up.
  • Giving a boost to regional, rural, or collaborative efforts.

Funding the Future

Selected organizations will snag one-year grants to pilot strategies. The aim? To better prepare Alabamians for the jobs of tomorrow and seriously amp up the state's long-term workforce game.

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Strange Bedfellows? GOP Senators Defend Fetterman

Okay, ChumCity citizens, things are getting weird in the political arena. Republican Senators Katie Britt (R-Alabama) and Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) are stepping up to defend Democratic Senator John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania).

Crossing the Aisle

What's got these Republicans so riled up? They're calling out anonymous attacks on Fetterman's mental health, seemingly coming from within his own party!

Britt didn't mince words, posting on social media that it's a "complete disgrace" how "agenda-driven members of the media and his own party" are attacking him. She added, it's "all because he dares to be an independent thinker and voice. Proud to stand with John.”

Cotton echoed the sentiment, calling the treatment of Fetterman "disgraceful." He also stated that despite their differences, Fetterman is a "decent and genuine guy." Cotton believes the "radical left" is smearing him because of his pro-Israel stance.

What's the Real Story?

The Hill recently discussed Fetterman's situation in-depth. According to Semafor journalist David Weigel, there's a lot of "bullying of Fetterman on social media," and some progressive groups are even calling for his resignation.

Weigel thinks Republicans might try to use this situation to highlight what they see as the Democrats' hypocrisy, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month.

A "Mess" for Democrats?

Weigel thinks this whole situation is a "mess" for the Democrats. He points out that the criticisms aren't just about Fetterman's depression, but also about him being an "erratic member of the Senate." However, he also notes the precedent of elderly senators staying in office despite questions about their capabilities.

What do you think, ChumCity? Is this genuine concern, political maneuvering, or just plain weirdness? Let us know in the comments!

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Lefties Gone Looney Tunes: Cheering on Cancer?!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCityzens, because things are getting WILD. Apparently, some corners of the hyper-online Left have officially lost their marbles. Word on the street (and the internet) is they're actually CELEBRATING cancer diagnoses. Seriously?!

Dale Jackson Sounds Off

Dale Jackson, the brains behind the mic at Yellowhammer News and host of the WVNN morning show (weekdays, 5-9 a.m.), is calling out this bonkers behavior. Stay tuned to ChumCity for more on this developing story!

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Pacquiao's Back?!

Guess who's dusting off his gloves? Manny Pacquiao, that's who! At 46, the boxing legend is eyeing a comeback, and John Longshore is all over it. Can Pac-Man really get his body back into fighting shape? John's got questions, 'cause let's face it, getting ready for a world-class fight after years off is a HUGE ask.

Cheating in the Fast Lane?

Hold on to your helmets, folks! Team Penske is in hot water for allegedly using illegal software in IndyCar races. John dives into the scandal, sparking a debate about cheating in motorsports. Plus, the quirky traditions of victory lane get some love, including that famous milk-drinking ritual at the Indy 500!

Diamond Dreams and Ringside Seats

This episode isn't just punches and pistons! Alabama baseball coach Rob Vaughn swings by to chat about his team's chances in the SEC tournament. J.D. Byars also checks in from the Sun Belt baseball championship in Montgomery. They're dishing on regional sports and the traditions that make them special. Finally, would they EVER go to a big boxing event? The verdict: only if they're in the front row!

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