Remembering Dr. Michael "Mike" Wayne Parker: A Life Dedicated to Aging with Grace

The James Houston Center for Faith and Successful Aging is celebrating the extraordinary life and impactful legacy of its founder, Dr. Michael “Mike” Wayne Parker.

Parker dedicated his life to transforming how churches, communities, and professionals approach the care of older adults and their families. This Birmingham native framed aging not as a decline, but as a vibrant stage filled with purpose, dignity, and continued growth.

A Global Vision, Local Action

"Dr. Parker's dedication to older adults, caregivers, and their families knew no bounds," the Center shared. "We're humbled by his work's lasting impact on social work, gerontology, and senior ministries worldwide. He emphasized thinking globally while acting locally, ensuring compassionate and informed care for all."

The Center vows to honor Dr. Parker’s vision through its ongoing work, particularly with the AgeReady program, resourcing congregations across Alabama and beyond.

From Faith-Rooted Beginnings

Born in 1947, Parker's upbringing in Birmingham instilled values of faith, hard work, and service, which guided his lifelong commitment to supporting older adults.

He served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army for over two decades, contributing to the Army Medical Department in various roles, reflecting his patriotism and unwavering ethics.

Shaping Future Generations

Later, at the University of Alabama School of Social Work, Parker mentored countless social workers, integrating evidence-based practices with compassion. He was known for his encouragement and guidance.

A Champion for Faith-Based Initiatives

Through the James Houston Center, Parker spearheaded programs that supported the spiritual, emotional, economic, and physical well-being of older adults and their caregivers. He championed faith-based initiatives that highlighted aging as a blessing.

A Legacy of Service and Faith

Friends and colleagues remember Parker for his humor, support, and willingness to serve. He believed "successful aging" involved staying engaged and completing life's journey with faith and purpose.

Though his passing is deeply felt, the Center affirms that Dr. Parker's vision will continue to inspire through its programs and the many lives he touched.

Alabama Family Highlighted for Utilizing CHOOSE Act

Governor Kay Ivey shone a spotlight on an Alabama family this week, showcasing the CHOOSE Act's positive impact. Fourth-grader Charlie Perkins, along with his guardian and grandmother, Susan Stacy, are a prime example of how this program is expanding educational horizons across the state.

"The CHOOSE Act is for all Alabama families," declared Ivey. "Susan and Charlie perfectly embody what this initiative is about – prioritizing faith, family, and a child's future. Every parent or guardian deserves the chance to select the education that best nurtures their child's God-given potential."

A Faith-Based Foundation

Charlie attends St. Dominic Catholic School in Mobile, where Susan emphasized the importance of a structured, faith-based environment for his learning journey.

Encouragement for Others

Susan urged other parents and guardians considering the program not to be intimidated by the application process. "Initially, the application might seem daunting, and it did to me! But don't let that stop you! It’s readily available, easy to navigate, and opened the door for us to choose the education that suited Charlie and his aspirations perfectly," she shared.

Tailored Learning

Described as thoughtful and creative, Charlie enjoys science and spends his spare time crafting comic books. Susan explained that the CHOOSE Act enabled them to enroll him in a school that aligns with his interests and learning style.

A New Opportunity

"When Charlie expressed his desire to attend a different school, I wasn't sure how we could make it happen. Thanks to the CHOOSE Act, I was able to invest further in his education and provide him with the fresh environment he was looking for," Susan said.

Statewide Impact

The governor's office noted that Charlie and Susan are among tens of thousands of Alabama families benefiting from the CHOOSE Act. Governor Ivey has previously featured families from across the state, demonstrating the program's reach.

Program Details

The CHOOSE Act provides refundable tax credits through education savings accounts, assisting eligible K-12 students with tuition, fees, and other qualified educational expenses. Applications are now open for the 2026-27 school year, with award notifications slated for April 15 and funding commencing on July 1.

Impressive Numbers

Since applications opened in January 2025, a staggering 36,873 students statewide have applied. Eligible students may receive up to $7,000 annually for participating schools or $2,000 for home education programs, subject to program limits and income eligibility requirements.

Alabama Takes the Lead in Robotic Kidney Transplants!

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UA is making waves in advanced medical care! They've just performed the Southeast's very first robotic kidney transplant! This is a huge deal, folks, and could mean more folks get access to these life-saving procedures.

Growing Need for Transplants

You know the demand for organ transplants is skyrocketing. In 2023, we saw over 28,000 kidney transplants in the U.S. - a big jump from the year before! UAB's stepping up to the plate with some seriously innovative stuff.

Robotic Revolution at UAB

On January 15, 2026, UAB's transplant team pulled off this groundbreaking robotic-assisted kidney transplant. This is their first of its kind, and a giant leap towards less invasive transplant options! Docs Michael Hanaway and Muhammad Rabbani led the charge on this one.

Why Robotic?

Dr. Hanaway says robotic procedures are the future of kidney transplantation. He's stoked that UAB is the first in the Southeast to offer this to patients! Unlike traditional surgery, robotic surgery uses small incisions and robotic instruments controlled by the surgeon. A surgical assistant is on hand too.

Benefits Galore!

UAB says this minimally invasive approach has a bunch of perks: smaller scars, less pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. Pretty sweet, right? Dr. Jacqueline Garonzik Wang says it's especially helpful for patients with higher BMIs or other issues.

Precision and Vision

Robotic surgery also gives surgeons better visualization and more precision to work in tricky areas, according to Dr. Hanaway.

UAB: A Transplant Powerhouse

UAB has been doing transplants since way back in 1968! They're always pushing the envelope with research, training, and clinical care. They do over 400 transplants every year, making them the biggest transplant program in the Southeast!

Expanding Access

UAB officials are super excited that robotics will help more people get transplants, especially with rates of kidney disease on the rise. Keep an eye on UAB, because they are on the cutting edge of medical care!

Ozark Traffic Stop Uncovers a Hooch Haul!

Hold onto your hats, folks! What started as a simple traffic stop in Ozark earlier this month turned into a moonshine bust of epic proportions. Police stumbled upon a whopping 81 gallons of illegal hooch crammed inside a vehicle. Can you believe it?

The Stop That Shook the Stills

According to a recent press release, Officer Dylan Griffin of the Crime Suppression Unit pulled over a vehicle on January 9th for a traffic violation. But little did he know, he was about to uncover a mobile moonshine operation!

From Florida with… Moonshine?

During the stop, Officer Griffin spotted multiple containers of clear liquid – and guess what? It was moonshine! The driver, 61-year-old Learndis Hamilton, was reportedly heading from Florida to parts unknown. Talk about a road trip gone wrong! He was the vehicle's only occupant, which must have been a tight squeeze with all that liquid cargo.

Handcuffs and Hooch Confiscation

Hamilton was promptly arrested, and the investigation has now been handed over to the Alabama Beverage Control Board. Because, let's face it, lugging around that much illegally distilled liquor is a big no-no in Alabama. Looks like someone's moonshine dreams just went up in smoke!

Alabama Gaming: Don't Bet on 2026?

The push to legalize gaming in Alabama – lottery, online sports betting, casinos – just won't quit. But don't hold your breath for a resolution in 2026, folks. Even a special session might not be enough to seal the deal.

Lawmakers Weigh In

At Yellowhammer News' annual Legislative Preview, Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger and House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter gave a brutally honest assessment. Bottom line? The votes just aren't there.

Senate Roadblock

Gudger (R-Cullman) minced no words: "In the Senate... I'm not sure the votes are there." He's not about to waste time on a bill with zero chance of passing. He also highlighted the inflexibility of some bill proponents, hindering any potential compromise.

House Waiting Game

Speaker Ledbetter (R-Rainsville), still reeling from a failed gaming push in 2024, echoed Gudger's sentiment. "The appetite’s not there right now." The House wants the Senate to take the lead and present something workable.

The Irony of Illegal Gambling

Ledbetter also pointed out the elephant in the room: illegal gambling is rampant. "There’s more gambling in Alabama right now than there ever has been." He emphasized that the state isn't seeing a dime from the Poarch Creek Indians' casinos or the illegal operations thriving in every county. "We’ve got a problem," he stated bluntly.

Getting Rid of Illegal Operations

Gudger agrees. "One way or the other, we need to get rid of it," he said, adding that the problems caused by not having legal gaming are "starting to get greater" than just tackling the issue head-on.

Looking Ahead

The gaming debate will undoubtedly resurface, especially with new legislators coming in. Will they have the votes to finally pass something? Stay tuned, ChumCity citizens, because this saga is far from over!

Alabama's Lt. Governor Race Heats Up!

Former Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl is throwing his hat into the ring for the 2026 Lt. Governor race! Wahl made the announcement at a press conference this Tuesday, right at Alabama Republican Party Headquarters.

Wahl's Announcement & Trump's Endorsement

"President Trump knows Alabama needs a Lieutenant Governor who'll fight tooth and nail for the America First agenda – and that's why he's backing me," Wahl declared. He painted a picture of Alabama leading a "conservative resurgence," promising to protect Alabamians' rights, freedoms, and values. Apparently, Wahl got the news of Trump's endorsement via a screenshot text – classic Trump, he said!

From ALGOP Chair to Lt. Governor Aspirant

Wahl, who's been ALGOP Chairman since 2021, wants to bring his passion for "constitutional limited government" to the Lt. Governor's office. He sees the founding fathers' vision as the "blueprint to make America great again."

Allen's Attack

But it's not all smooth sailing! Secretary of State Wes Allen didn't waste any time blasting Wahl's record. Allen referenced past controversy over Wahl's voting registration, accusing him of betraying the Alabama Republican Party. Ouch!

Wahl's Response

Wahl fired back, suggesting Allen's attack was a "desperate attempt to undermine my credibility." He emphasized wanting to focus on what he can do for the people of Alabama and touting his record as ALGOP Chairman. He also pointed out that he was still in office the final day to qualify, showing he's putting the party first.

Canned Cocktails Coming to Alabama? Maybe in 2026!

Get ready, ChumCity! The debate over those convenient canned cocktails – officially called "ready-to-drink" (RTD) beverages – is heating up in the Alabama Legislature, and 2026 could be the year they finally land on grocery store shelves alongside your favorite brews.

A Shift in the Wind?

Alabama Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger and Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter think the political landscape is shifting. Gudger says there's been major momentum in the last year, with more key players finding common ground.

House Already On Board!

Speaker Ledbetter even joked that the House already passed a similar bill last session. Now it's the Senate's turn to take the lead with SB217 – a bill similar to the one that zipped through the House but with extra teeth for enforcement and backing from both sides of the aisle.

It's All About Control, Baby!

Gudger emphasized that it's not about access, exactly. Alabamians can already snag RTDs at liquor stores. The real question is how to best regulate sales if these cocktails become available at convenience and grocery stores.

The ABC Steps In!

For the first time, the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has weighed in, adding a new dimension to the discussion. It's not just about two options anymore - they are looking at three. The goal is to do what's best for Alabama, maintain control, and potentially create a new revenue stream.

The Holdup: A Matter of "How"

Under current law, most RTDs are treated like liquor, meaning they're stuck in ABC stores. The proposed solution focuses on creating a new category for low-ABV, single-serve drinks that can be regulated more like beer and wine, while remaining under ABC oversight.

Compromise is Key

Ledbetter emphasized the importance of compromise. It's about finding a sweet spot where everyone can agree to disagree and move forward. It may take time but getting it right is most important.

Roll Tide Controversy!

The NCAA is throwing a flag! They're asking for a judge to be benched from Charles Bediako's case because he's an Alabama alum and donor. Talk about a conflict of interest!

Mobile Mayhem

Protestors in Mobile packed their schedules to sound off about... well, just about everything. No Kings fascism, Iran, Venezuela, food stamps, ICE... you name it. They're demanding accountability for Alex Pretti's death, but conveniently ignoring the violence some illegals bring to the table.

Protecting Our Children

The Alabama House just passed the Child Predator Death Penalty Act. This tough-on-crime bill could mean the death penalty for the worst sexual offenses against kids, including rape and sodomy.

Education Drama

Alabama's public schools have a lot to offer - magnet programs, career tech, the works! Despite that, AHSAA Southeast District director bailed over DEI policies and the public-private postseason divide.

Brooks vs. Ledbetter

Mo Brooks is stirring the pot, questioning proxy voting in the Alabama State House and hinting at voter fraud. House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) isn't having it, slamming Brooks' record and calling him a failure. Ouch!

Tuberville's Residency

Tommy Tuberville's finally got a residency challenge for the governor's race. Will it stick? Probably not. It's unlikely a sitting U.S. Senator will get booted from the ballot.

Border Blues

After Trump chatted with Minnesota's Governor Walz, Border Czar Tom Homan swooped in and got Walz to help with ICE enforcement. The result? Agitators are swarming Walz's office, demanding "immigration justice."

Lummis Backs Moore for Senate!

Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming) is throwing her support behind U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) in his bid for Senate! She's pointing to his strong stance on digital assets and financial policy as a major reason.

Innovation, Not Red Tape!

Lummis stated that Moore "understands that innovation, not bureaucracy, is the future of American finance." She emphasized his defense of sound money, blockchain tech, and the rights of Americans to control their own assets. She highlighted that Moore actually owns crypto, showing he gets how innovation can power America's and Alabama's future. Lummis joins President Trump in backing Moore, seeing him as a "powerful ally in the Senate for economic freedom and technological leadership."

Moore's Ready to Work Together

Moore responded that he's eager to team up with Lummis on digital asset policy if he makes it to the Senate.

Championing Financial Innovation

Moore said that Lummis "has led the fight in Washington to keep America at the forefront of financial innovation." He sees crypto and blockchain tech as vital to freedom, privacy, and opportunity – values conservatives should be fighting for. As Senator, he promises to work with Lummis to prevent regulatory overreach, protect innovators, and make sure the digital finance future is made in the U.S.A., not overseas.

A Little More About Moore

Moore's an Alabama native, served in the National Guard, and got elected to the House in 2020. He's also part of the House Freedom Caucus. Before politics, he went to Auburn and co-founded a waste removal and demolition company. He's a family man too, with his wife Heather, four kids, and two grandkids.

Big News for Bama Hoops!

Alabama basketball fans, rejoice! Charles Bediako is cleared to play for at least the next two games!

Eligibility Drama... Resolved (For Now)

Remember all that eligibility drama swirling around Bediako? Well, a temporary restraining order granted by a local judge kept him on the court. A hearing to decide his fate was scheduled, but Mother Nature intervened!

Weather Woes Delay NCAA Decision

Turns out, the NCAA's attorney was snowed in! Inclement weather grounded travel plans, forcing the court to extend the temporary restraining order. This means Bediako is good to go for now!

Bediako's Back with a Bang!

Bediako, who made waves by returning to Tuscaloosa after two seasons in the NBA's G-League, already made a splash in his return against Tennessee. He put up 13 points and snagged 3 rebounds in 25 minutes of play!

Guaranteed Games & Future Prospects

The TRO extension guarantees Bediako will suit up against Missouri and Florida. And considering recent legal victories for athletes against the NCAA, chances are he'll stay eligible for the entire season.

What's Next?

No new hearing date is set just yet, but the extended TRO is valid until February 7th. That's the same day the Tide travels to face Auburn in their first matchup of the season. Stay tuned, ChumCity fam!