Good News, Y'all: Alabama Cracking Down on Opioid Prescriptions!

Alabama's making serious strides in battling the opioid crisis! The Medical Association of the State of Alabama just dropped some encouraging stats.

Opioid Prescriptions Plunging!

Get this: Opioid prescriptions in Alabama have plummeted a whopping 46.2% since 2012! And the strength of those prescriptions? Down a massive 58.7% in the same timeframe. Way to go, Alabama docs!

Naloxone on the Rise (Then a Little Dip)!

Naloxone, the life-saving overdose reversal med, saw a huge surge! Prescriptions jumped 222.8% from 2018 to 2024. But hey, after becoming available over-the-counter, prescriptions dipped 15.4% between 2023 and 2024. Easy access for everyone!

Docs Leading the Charge!

Alabama physicians have been working hard to change opioid prescribing practices for over a decade. The Medical Association was one of the first to offer formal training on safe and effective prescribing.

Training for the Win!

The Medical Association teams up with the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners to offer opioid-prescribing training courses. Since '09, over 10,000 prescribers have completed the training! Now that's dedication!

Easier Access to Naloxone!

The Medical Association even backed the FDA's decision to make naloxone available over-the-counter. They are all about saving lives!

A Word from the President!

"Physicians have fundamentally changed how opioids are prescribed in Alabama," says Dr. Mark LeQuire, president of the Medical Association. He adds that doctors are using lower doses, being more selective, and emphasizing alternative treatments.

The Fight Continues!

Alabama physicians emphasize that ongoing education and access to treatment are key to further reducing opioid-related harm. Let's keep up the great work, Alabama!

Alabama AG Slams Minnesota Leaders Over ICE Protests

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has entered the fray, blasting Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for their recent comments amid heated protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Tensions High After Fatal Shooting

Minneapolis is currently simmering with tension following the death of Renee Nicole Good, shot by an ICE agent in what authorities claim was a vehicle assault attempt. A separate incident involved an ICE officer shooting a man in the leg after allegedly being attacked with a shovel during an arrest, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

"Inflaming the Tensions"

Marshall, during an appearance on WVNN’s "The Yaffee Program," didn't mince words. He pointed to reports of protesters breaking into an ICE vehicle and allegedly seizing weapons. "The rhetoric is over the top," Marshall stated. "We see a mayor and a governor who are inflaming the tensions in that community."

Calls for Cooperation

Walz and Frey have been vocal supporters of protesting ICE, even accusing the agency of murder in the Good case. Marshall countered, "Even in the event yesterday, where the ICE agent was attacked, they had an individual here unlawfully for which they had the lawful right to be able to pursue." He emphasized that attacking an ICE agent "simply doing their job" is "completely unacceptable" and condemned the lack of condemnation from Minnesota officials as "extremely disturbing." Marshall, who is also eyeing a Senate seat, urged Minnesota leaders to work with federal agents to de-escalate the situation. He argued that local officials are exacerbating the chaos, stressing that violence against law enforcement, especially when they are acting lawfully, is never justified.

Rep. Moore Stands with Trump on Sanctuary City Funding

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) is throwing his weight behind President Trump's plan to cut federal funding to sanctuary cities and states. Trump declared, "Starting February 1st, no more payments to sanctuary cities or states shielding criminals at the expense of American citizens."

"Perfect" Solution?

Moore, a Senate candidate, agrees. "I think it's perfect! Sanctuary cities reject federal law enforcement but love federal dollars. You can't have your cake and eat it too. If you're pushing back against federal law, then extending your hand for federal payouts? President Trump's right to use his leverage to rein in this fraud and anti-law sentiment."

Moore Slams Dems' ICE Complaints

Moore also blasted Democrats for their recent complaints about ICE operations, asking, "Where were they when Lake and Riley were killed? It's all political! They called the ICE agent a murderer before even seeing the video!"

He referenced the shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent after she allegedly used her vehicle as a weapon, reportedly stalking and impeding agents all day.

"Political Agenda"

Moore argues the criticism reflects a "political agenda," stating, "Members of Congress called them murderers the day after it happened, without even seeing the video! It's demonizing law enforcement. They've been doing it for a long time, and every time an officer has to react is to defend himself, it becomes political." He adds, "If an illegal alien shot a US citizen, it wouldn't be in the media."

Pro-Life Rally Coming to Birmingham!

Heads up, ChumCity! Pro-life advocates are rallying in Birmingham this Saturday to support the rights of the unborn.

Prayer Vigil & Witness for Life

Get ready to join leaders and citizens from across the city at the annual Prayer Vigil & Witness for Life, taking place this Saturday, January 17th, at 10:45 AM. The gathering will be in front of Planned Parenthood, located at 1019 1st Ave N. Attendees will unite in prayer and prepare for renewed pro-life efforts.

Alabama's Strong Stance

As you know, Alabama boasts some of the nation's strongest pro-life laws, thanks to the Human Life Protection Act enacted after Roe v. Wade was overturned.

More Work To Be Done

Attorney Eric Johnston, the author of the Human Life Protection Act, will be speaking at the vigil. He believes that there is still more to be done to protect unborn children in the state. While abortions are down, concerns remain about unsupervised abortions via mail-order abortifacients.

Fighting for Life

Jim Pinto, a key organizer of the vigil and a long-time pro-life champion, echoes Johnston's sentiments. He emphasizes the need to remain vigilant against "workaround chemical abortions" happening in Alabama. The pro-life community hopes to continue its work to support women's health and save the lives of the unborn.

Join the Movement!

The Prayer Vigil is co-hosted by Birmingham March for Life, United for Life, and CEC For Life, along with other pro-life organizations and local churches. Expect a time of worship, celebration, and special prayers for unborn children. Fr. Terry Gensemer of CEC For Life will be emceeing the event.

Rocket's Back, Baby!

Remember that awesome Saturn 1B rocket at the Alabama welcome center? It's back! After the old one was retired, everyone missed it, so they built a shiny new replica. Road trip, anyone?

Opioid Fight: Alabama's Winning

Good news, y'all! Alabama's prescription opioid dosages are still dropping. Looks like the state's cracking down on the opioid crisis with better rules, monitoring, and promoting alternative pain relief. Keep up the good work!

Library Funding Fight!

Drama alert! The Alabama Public Library Service board just cut state funding to the Fairhope Public Library because they refused to move or hide "The Handmaid's Tale." What do you think about that?

Machado & Trump: Venezuelan Vibes

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado chilled with President Trump and even brought him a Nobel Prize (for US efforts in Venezuela!). All this amidst ongoing struggles in Venezuela.

Tough on Crime: Alabama Bills Advance

Alabama lawmakers are getting serious about crime! Judiciary committees just gave the thumbs-up to bills increasing penalties for crimes with multiple victims, organ theft, banning NDAs in sexual abuse cases, and hitting harder on assaults against lawmakers.

Tuberville Takes on Child Care Fraud!

Senator (and former Coach!) Tommy Tuberville is fired up about child care fraud. He introduced the Stop Fraud by Somalia Act, calling the scandals one of the biggest rip-offs of American taxpayers EVER. He wants accountability!

Minnesota Mayhem: Trump, Walz, and Protests!

Things are heating up in Minnesota! President Trump threatened to use the Insurrection Act after the ICE shooting unrest. The White House slammed Gov. Tim Walz, impeachment articles were drafted against him, and Rep. Tom Emmer wants him GONE! Minneapolis is protesting hard.

Tune In!

Get more of this kind of insight from Dale Jackson, Yellowhammer News thought leader and WVNN talk show host (weekdays 5-9 a.m.)!

Hoover Scores Big with Mine Land Revitalization Funding!

Get ready for some exciting changes, ChumCity! Hoover is about to get a major boost thanks to a whopping $11,751,607.34 in federal funding from the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) Program. This awesome news translates to big wins for our community through two super innovative projects.

What's in Store for Hoover?

The funding will fuel Broad Metro’s Stadium Trace Village Phase 2 Project and Signature Homes’ I-459 Exit 9 Parkway Extension. Both initiatives are all about cleaning up old environmental hazards, keeping us safe, and sparking some serious economic growth right here in coal-impacted communities.

A Partnership That Pays Off

Workforce Secretary Greg Reed couldn't be happier! He calls this investment a "major win" for Alabama, emphasizing how it delivers jobs, breathes new life into unused land, and creates a space that will benefit the community for years to come. He highlights the power of combining strong partnerships with federal support to achieve rural economic growth.

Stadium Trace Village: A Revitalized Hub

Broad Metro's CEO, Will Kadish, expressed gratitude for programs like AMLER, which continue to deliver results for Alabama, especially in a time when federal infrastructure investments can be uncertain. Stadium Trace Village Phase 2 will transform about 121 acres of undeveloped land into a vibrant space featuring a state-of-the-art surgical plaza, hotel, retail shops, and plenty of green space. This project will create hundreds of construction jobs and permanent positions, while respecting our natural environment.

I-459 Exit 9 Parkway Extension: Connecting Communities

Jonathan Belcher, CEO of Signature Homes, is thrilled about the AMLER grant supporting the I-459 Exit 9 Parkway Extension. This investment allows them to reclaim historic mining areas, protect the Cahaba River watershed, and create vital infrastructure supporting tons of jobs. The parkway provides essential connectivity, ensuring long-term economic growth for Jefferson and Shelby counties.

Building a Brighter Future

The AMLER Program focuses on transforming old, abandoned coal mining sites into productive assets for our local economies. These projects are all about creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and opening up new development opportunities right here in Jefferson and Shelby counties. It's about taking our past and turning it into a foundation for a brighter future!

Huntsville Doc in Hot Water Over Bizarre Claims!

A new lawsuit filed in Madison County is making some seriously eyebrow-raising accusations against a Huntsville doctor, Edward Witt, D.O., and two healthcare companies, ARC Healthcare LLC and QC Kinetix LLC. Buckle up, ChumCity citizens, because this is a wild ride!

Shaving Shenanigans?

The lawsuit, brought by plaintiffs Jane Doe and Mary May, alleges that these women were repeatedly asked to shave Dr. Witt's thighs and calves! Yep, you read that right. And the plot thickens...

Fired by Text?!

After attempting to put the brakes on being alone with the doctor at the office, both women claim they were unceremoniously fired via text message. Talk about a digital "you're out!"

Legal Bombshell

The complaint cites Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and includes claims of invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and plain ol' negligence. Mastando & Artrip, LLC, a Huntsville law firm, is representing the plaintiffs.

The Allegations

According to the lawsuit, Dr. Witt, who allegedly held a supervisory role at both ARC Healthcare and QC Kinetix, engaged in a pattern of totally inappropriate and sexualized behavior. We're talking unwanted touching, explicit chats, and those...leg-shaving demands.

What's Next?

The lawsuit claims that ARC Healthcare and QC Kinetix failed to step in and stop the alleged misconduct. It's important to remember that these are just allegations at this point. No one has had their day in court yet, and no responses from the defendants were included in the initial filing.

Big News! Alabama Technology Network Gets a Makeover!

The Alabama Technology Network is sporting a fresh new look! Say hello to the Alabama Training Network – a name that totally nails what they're all about! Think workforce solutions, beefing up businesses, and generally making Alabama awesome!

Same Mission, Even Better Name!

Don't worry, folks! While the name’s snazzier, their commitment to a strong Alabama workforce is still the same. They're doubling down on supporting industry!

Hear it From the Top!

"This change really shows who we are and what we do," says Keith Phillips, Executive Director. "Training is always the answer. We're here to help Alabama businesses level up their workers, crush their goals, and stay on top in today's crazy world!"

Ribbon-Cutting Celebration!

ATN threw a party to celebrate their new name! Partners, leaders, and friends all gathered for a ribbon-cutting shindig with the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. Good times!

What's ATN's Deal?

Since way back in 2004, ATN's been part of the Alabama Community College System (ACCS). They're also Alabama's go-to Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), partnering with manufacturers to provide training, technical help, and business smarts.

The Stats Don't Lie!

With a team of 61 pros statewide, ATN offers over 240 courses in areas like industrial stuff, safety, food services, and leadership. In just the last year, they helped 255 Alabama manufacturers, delivering 464 training sessions, and logging over 32,000 instruction hours. Whoa!

Experts in Your Corner!

Backed by a whopping 1,200+ years of manufacturing experience, ATN's experts work directly with companies to create training programs that are just right. They get your unique needs!

Making Alabama Stronger!

Together with ACCS, ATN is the biggest workforce training network in the state. Since day one, they've helped create and keep over 22,000 jobs and pumped over $4.6 BILLION into Alabama's economy! Talk about a power couple!

Alabama House OKs Post-Election Audits!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! The Alabama House just gave the green light to a bill requiring audits after every countywide and statewide general election. Yep, you read that right!

What's the Buzz?

State Rep. Joe Lovvorn (R-Auburn) spearheaded HB95, standing strong against a two-hour filibuster attempt by House Dems. The bill mandates probate judges in each county to audit ballots in at least one randomly chosen precinct and one countywide or statewide race after each general election.

The Vote

The bill cruised through the House with a 72-25 vote, with only Democrats opposing. So, what does this mean?

Audit Deets

Probate judges will call the shots on the audit’s date, time, and location, and they'll appoint poll workers to run the show. Alabama's Secretary of State Wes Allen is totally on board, saying he's always supported election transparency.

More Audits? Maybe!

The bill makes it clear that probate judges can order even MORE audits if they want. Talk about double-checking!

Manual or Machine?

Audits can go the old-school route with manual tallies or use ballot counters. But, if machines are involved, at least 30 randomly picked ballots have to be manually checked against the machine results. Just to be sure, you know?

What's Next?

HB95 is now zooming over to the Alabama Senate, hot on the path to becoming law! Stay tuned, ChumCity, this one's moving fast!

Alabama Opts In: Feds to Boost School Choice!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity! Governor Kay Ivey just signed an executive order locking Alabama into the Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program! This brand-new program, a piece of President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill," promises even more educational options for our families.

Ivey Doubles Down on School Choice

This move comes hot on the heels of Ivey's State of the State address, where she boldly declared her aim to make Alabama "the most school choice friendly state in the nation." Talk about commitment! And with National School Choice Week kicking off January 25th, the timing couldn't be better.

More Options, More Resources

"Alabama has been a trailblazer in offering parents and students options," Governor Ivey stated. She highlighted the success of the Alabama Accountability Act and the CHOOSE Act, emphasizing that this new federal program is another step in the right direction.

How it Works

Think of it like the Alabama Accountability Act, but on a federal scale! The Federal Education Freedom Tax Credit offers tax credits for donations to approved scholarship organizations. These organizations then use the funds to provide scholarships for students at all levels, covering tuition, books, tutoring, and more! Even families already participating in the CHOOSE Act or benefiting from the Alabama Accountability Act may be eligible.

What's Next?

Ivey's order officially greenlights Alabama's participation and tasks the Alabama Department of Revenue with managing the program and certifying the scholarship organizations. Get ready, though – this awesome opportunity won't be available until January 2027!