Northwest Alabama Gets a HUGE Internet Boost!

Get ready, folks! A game-changing fiber-to-home internet project just wrapped up in rural Northwest Alabama, bringing blazingly fast internet access to a whopping 100,000 residents!

The Dream Becomes Reality

Tombigbee Electric Cooperative poured a massive $145 million into this epic project, laying down an incredible 4,200 miles of fiber optic cable. Can you believe it?

Local Leaders Celebrate

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger, and a host of other officials gathered to celebrate this monumental achievement. It's a big deal for the region!

Freedom FIBER is Here!

Tombigbee Communications, the co-op's subsidiary, spearheaded the project under its Freedom FIBER brand, bringing high-speed internet to eight Alabama counties. This project fulfills a long-held vision and stays true to the cooperative spirit: connecting everyone.

Leaving No One Behind

Britton Lightsey, president and CEO of Tombigbee Electric Cooperative, emphasized the core mission: "to take service to everyone and not leave anyone out," just like the original Rural Electrification Act.

A Real Community Effort

The celebration was held at Tombigbee Electric’s HQ, drawing over 250 attendees. Rep. Aderholt recalled the initial USDA ReConnect Program announcement, highlighting the shared goal of ensuring equal internet access for rural communities.

Still Growing!

With over 27,000 customers already connected, Tombigbee is adding approximately three dozen more connections every single day. They are still collecting service registrations too!

Local Support is Key

Lightsey thanked Gov. Ivey, the Legislature, Rep. Aderholt, and others for their unwavering support. He emphasized Tombigbee's commitment to serving the entire area, unlike other providers.

Keeping it Local

"If you have any issue, you are calling Hamilton, Alabama!" Lightsey proudly stated. Money spent on Freedom FIBER stays right here, reinvesting in the very communities it serves. Pretty cool, huh?

Big News for Alabama Vets!

The State Board of Veterans Affairs (SBVA) just gave a huge thumbs-up to Walt Kozak, electing him as their Vice-Chairman at their quarterly pow-wow on October 9th!

Who is Walt Kozak?

This guy's a rockstar! A retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and member of American Legion Post 911 (Ryan Winslow Chapter), Kozak packs a whopping 48 years of leadership experience from his time in the Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

What They're Saying

Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton is stoked, saying, “Walt Kozak brings a winning combo of experience and leadership. His strategic vision, integrity, and dedication will be a game-changer as we keep pushing forward and boosting support for Alabama’s veterans.”

Fresh Faces on the Board

The October meeting also welcomed some new blood – Eric Dudash and Audrey Ransom! Dudash, nominated by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Ransom, nominated by Disabled American Veterans (DAV), were both appointed by Governor Kay Ivey for a four-year term. Bonus: Dudash even brings his certified service dog, Phantom, as an honorary board member!

More Cemetery Space on the Horizon!

The SBVA is all-in on supporting the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA) as they gear up to build a second state veterans cemetery. Commissioner Newton’s been burning the midnight oil with state legislators and local bigwigs in Madison, Morgan, and Limestone counties to snag about 110 acres of prime farmland up north for the project.

Championing Our Vets

"After 80 years of service, the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs is going above and beyond to support our state’s 400,000 veterans,” Commissioner Newton declared. “From new programs to bigger services and community partnerships, we’re constantly finding better ways to take care of those who served and fortify the entire veterans community across Alabama!”

Alabama Headlines: What's Buzzing?

Here's a quick rundown of what's been making waves across Alabama:

IVF Access Boost?

President Trump is pushing for more affordable IVF, giving a shoutout to Alabama Senator Katie Britt for the inspo. Expect to hear about potential tax credits and insurance changes aimed at helping families.

Professor's Social Media Snafu

A former prof from both Bama and Auburn is suing after getting the boot. Apparently, some eyebrow-raising comments about Charlie Kirk led to the firing. Something about not mourning the wicked and "real assignments" raised a few red flags.

Montgomery Mayor Vetoes Hospital Funding

Mayor Steven Reed threw a curveball by vetoing a resolution to help fund Jackson Hospital. But don't panic! He says he's still all in on supporting the hospital and looking for other ways to make it happen.

Redistricting Rollercoaster

Jefferson County's race-based redistricting plan is on hold thanks to the U.S. Court of Appeals. The old map is back in place for now. Meanwhile, the Supremes are pondering similar cases, with the Alabama GOP chiming in, arguing for the end of race-based districts.

Tuberville Declares FBI Surge

Senator Tommy Tuberville says the FBI is heading to Montgomery to crack down on rising crime. More federal resources and better coordination with local cops are on the way, aiming to tackle violent offenses and bring some order to the streets.

Government Shutdown Hurts Alabama Families

Dr. Scott Harris, Alabama's State Health Officer, says the government shutdown could pull the plug on food assistance for 112,000 Alabama women and babies. Ouch. Looks like folks here are caught in the crossfire of D.C. politics.

Bolton in Hot Water

John Bolton, former National Security Advisor, is facing an indictment for allegedly mishandling classified documents. Storing sensitive stuff at home and ignoring federal rules are the charges – sounds oddly familiar to the accusations Bolton cheered on against Trump.

Dale Jackson, Yellowhammer News' resident thought leader, keeps the conversation going weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.

Sen. Tim Melson Launches Re-election Bid!

North Alabama favorite son, State Senator Tim Melson, has officially announced his campaign for re-election, promising to keep delivering strong, conservative leadership for District 1 (Lauderdale & Limestone counties!).

A Champion for North Alabama

First elected in 2014, Melson (R-Florence) has built a solid reputation for integrity and consistently fighting for North Alabama's best interests. Think conservative values, real results!

Focus on Freedom, Growth, and Jobs

Melson emphasized his commitment to protecting our freedoms, boosting the economy, and strengthening our workforce, highlighting key partnerships like the one with UNA.

Space Command & Beyond!

"We've done a lot, but there's so much more to do, especially with Space Command coming to North Alabama," Melson stated. "I'm ready to keep fighting for you – protecting our values, creating opportunities, and ensuring our voices are heard in Montgomery!"

Record of Action

During his time in the Senate, Melson has backed job training, promoted responsible fiscal policy, and stood firm on Alabama's core values.

Looking Ahead: More Progress!

His re-election campaign will prioritize continued progress in economic development, education, healthcare, and public safety, all while keeping state government accountable.

"I Love This State!"

"I'm running because I love this state and its people," Melson declared. "Serving you has been an honor, and I'm eager to earn your support again."

Local Roots

Raised in Florence and a proud UNA grad, Melson earned his medical degree from UAB and returned home to practice as an anesthesiologist at Helen Keller Hospital. He also owns Shoals Medical Trials, a crop farm and enjoys cattle farming.

Tim and his wife, Lynn, have been married for 45 years and have three children and five grandchildren. They are active members of Wood Avenue Church of Christ in Florence.

Ditching Endless Wars: A New Kind of Strength

For too long, the D.C. crowd thought America was tough because we started wars, not ended them. They called it "leadership." We called it a disaster, paid for with American lives.

President Trump proved that "peace through strength" isn't just a bumper sticker; it's how you actually lead. He brought back a kind of leadership we haven't seen in ages: not pretending weakness is diplomacy, not endless wars to keep the establishment happy, but real strength rooted in American power, purpose, and pride.

Bringing Our Heroes Home

Trump ended eight wars and conflicts, brought our troops home, and told the world loud and clear: we'll defend ourselves, but we're done with your forever wars.

Now, America's respected again. Our enemies think twice, our allies know where we stand, and our troops finally have a Commander-in-Chief who values them. The world knows we don't want trouble, but if you mess with us, you'll regret it. That's deterrence. That's peace through strength.

Leading from Strength, Not Weakness

President Trump used American power to bring Hamas to the table and force a ceasefire, ending the violence and bringing back calm to the Middle East. He did what others couldn't. He didn't negotiate from a position of weakness or bow to international pressure. He stood strong with Israel, proving America can have both peace and power.

That's real leadership. And if the Nobel Peace Prize meant anything anymore, President Trump would deserve one. Nobody's done more to end wars and restore peace than the guy the world used to mock and now has to respect: the Commander-in-Peace.

Real Strength: Putting America First

I've seen war up close. I've bled for this country and buried friends. Real strength isn't about sending troops overseas; it's about using our power wisely.

That's why we can't go back to the globalists and neocons who never learn. They're already itching for the next conflict, ready to spend American lives and dollars while our own country struggles. They call it strategy; our troops call it betrayal. We need leaders who measure strength in rebuilding our nation, caring for our veterans, and helping working families. It's time to defend peace abroad and prosperity at home.

Alabama: The Arsenal of Freedom

America's the arsenal of democracy. And Alabama's the arsenal of America. We build warriors, values, and grit. The same spirit that makes Alabama strong keeps America free.

It's time to elect leaders who know strength isn't aggression, and that peace is earned through power, not apologies.

It's time for a Senator who's been in the fight and will stand with President Trump to defend peace through strength.

I've fought for this country. Now I'm ready to fight for it in the U.S. Senate, to make sure we never trade American blood for another nation's mistakes. Our warriors deserve better. America deserves peace, through strength.

Jared Hudson: Fighting for Alabama in Washington

Jared Hudson is a former U.S. Navy SEAL and founder of Covenant Rescue Group, a nonprofit combating human trafficking. Jared is a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate, running to put Alabama First in Washington.

Alabama's All-In on Tech Founders!

Big news for all you startup junkies and tech titans! Alabama is rolling out the red carpet (and writing some serious checks) to attract and support high-growth tech companies across the state. This isn't just talk; it's a full-blown strategy designed to make Alabama the it spot for founders.

"Alabama Puts Founders First" - It's More Than a Slogan

This isn't just lip service; it's the guiding principle behind a whole suite of new and improved initiatives to help startups and small businesses absolutely crush it in Alabama. Think of it as a turbo boost for your entrepreneurial dreams!

The Three Pillars of Awesomeness:

• Corporate Pilots: Imagine getting funded to test your groundbreaking tech with some of Alabama's biggest corporations. This is happening, folks!
• Accelerated Company Retention: Graduated from an accelerator? Don't pack your bags! Alabama is offering VIP, concierge-style support to convince you to stay and build your empire here.
• Tech Business Attraction: Alabama is laser-focused on attracting growth-stage companies in booming sectors like defense, biotech, mobility, forestry, and advanced manufacturing. Get ready to be wooed!

From Birmingham Bound to Statewide Domination

Building on the success of Birmingham Bound, this statewide initiative is about amplifying the message: Alabama is serious about tech. The goal is to align everyone's efforts and ensure that startups have everything they need to thrive.

Defense Tech: Alabama's Secret Weapon

Alabama is already a powerhouse in the defense sector, raking in billions in contracts and grants. With major players like Lockheed Martin and Boeing setting up shop, the state is becoming the go-to place for defense innovation. Startups, get ready to play with the big leagues!

Innovation Across the State

Innovate Alabama is connecting small businesses with the resources they need to flourish in every corner of the state. It's about creating a supportive ecosystem where innovation can take root and grow.

Real-World Pilots and VIP Support

Imagine landing your first big customer while simultaneously proving the value of your tech. That's the power of EDPA's corporate pilot program! And with tailored support after accelerator programs, founders will have every reason to stay and scale in Alabama.

A Mother's Unseen Journey

There's a hidden side to motherhood, far from baby showers and cute nurseries. It starts with blood tests, injections, and quiet prayers in cold rooms. It's a place where hope dances with heartbreak, and faith becomes more than just a word – it's a lifeline.

Our Long Road

My husband and I faced a long and difficult journey to parenthood. We endured multiple rounds of IUI and had three IVF transfers canceled because my body "wasn't ready." Each time, I clung to hope, finding the strength to begin again. IVF puts everything to the test: your body, patience, marriage, and faith.

The Cost of Hope

It's physically and emotionally exhausting, and the financial burden is immense. I remember sitting next to a woman in the blood draw waiting room who broke down in tears, whispering, "We can't afford this." Her pain resonated deeply. I knew that even with science and faith, the cost can be unbearable.

Initially, I wasn't worried about the money. I was a state employee with good insurance. Surely, she was mistaken? But she wasn't. Insurance didn't cover it. Writing that check for our IVF felt wrong. Was I buying a child – or just the hope of one?

Faith in the Face of Heartbreak

My IVF journey taught me that faith isn't about believing everything will go as planned. It's about knowing God's hand is steady, even in heartbreak. When I finally heard "You're pregnant," I was overcome with joy and fear.

After so many losses, celebration is hard. You pray through every appointment, heartbeat, and day. Constant gratitude mixes with constant worry, hoping your body can carry this miracle home.

Miracles Do Happen

God answered my prayers. Twice. Two beautiful children conceived via IVF. They are miracles in every sense. Every time I look at them, I see grace in the struggle and purpose in the pain. I know not everyone's story ends like mine. Some are still waiting, some never receive the miracle they pray for.

You Are Not Alone

To those families: I see you. I carry you with me. Your courage, love, and faith are no less than mine. You are part of this story too. You are a reminder that strength can exist even in heartbreak, and that God's goodness doesn't disappear in the waiting.

To every woman on this road: you are not broken. You are not alone. And you are loved by a God who still does miracles, sometimes through medicine, sometimes through mercy, and always in His perfect timing.

Fighting for Affordable Options

That's why it's so important to ensure life-changing medications and treatments are affordable. No family should have to choose between hope and financial ruin.

[Politician's name]'s initiative to make IVF medications more affordable is a vital step forward for countless families facing impossible costs.

Crucial fertility drugs being available at steep discounts, orders directing federal agencies to aggressively reduce out-of-pocket and insurance costs for IVF, remove regulatory burdens, and expand access across the country is a lifeline, telling families that face infertility that they’re not forgotten in the struggle to build their families.

From thousands of families across the nation like mine, thank you, [Politician's name] and [Other politician's name], for your work.

As [Your Title], I will fight to ensure IVF remains available and protected for [State/Region] families who dream of becoming parents.

Having walked that road myself, I know the pain, the prayers, and the hope that come with every step.

Families facing infertility deserve leaders who stand with them, not bureaucrats and politicians who stand in their way.

[Your Name] - Candidate for [Position] in [Year].

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