Heads Up, ChumCity Citizens: Postal Postmarks Aren't Always What They Seem!

The U.S. Postal Service just dropped a little truth bomb about postmarks, and it’s got folks talking! Apparently, that stamp on your mail might NOT be the day you dropped it off. Who knew? It could be the day it finally gets processed at a regional sorting center, which could be days later!

Why This Matters

This little detail could be a big deal for things like bills, taxes, or any legal documents with deadlines. Late fees, anyone?

What's Up with the USPS?

The Postal Service says this isn’t a new thing, just a clarification. They're streamlining operations, which means mail might not get postmarked right away.

Alabama's Situation

For us Alabamians, especially those in rural areas far from the processing hubs, mail can take a little longer. But here's the good news when it comes to voting...

Alabama's Absentee Ballot Rule

Alabama doesn't care about postmarks for absentee ballots! Our ballots just need to be RECEIVED by the county election officials by noon on Election Day. Miss that deadline, and your vote doesn't count, no matter when it was mailed or postmarked.

Key Takeaways for Alabama Voters

• Ballots Arrive, Not Just Mailed: It's all about when they get there.
• No Excuses: We have specific reasons for absentee voting, so follow the rules!

Pro Tips for Avoiding a Mail Meltdown

• Mail Early, Seriously Early: Don't wait until the last minute.
• Don't Trust the Postmark: It's not a magic shield.
• Hand Delivery: If you're cutting it close, drop it off yourself at your county election office!

The USPS suggests getting a manual postmark at the counter or using certified mail for proof of mailing.

Bottom Line

For Alabamians, especially when it comes to absentee ballots, get your mail in EARLY! It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Alabama's Economy Keeps Rockin'!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! Alabama's economy is still booming, according to the latest scoop from the Alabama Department of Workforce. We're talking lower unemployment and record-breaking job numbers – things are looking bright!

Unemployment Takes a Dip!

The state's unemployment rate chilled out to a cool 2.7% in November, a sweet drop from last year's 3.3%. That means more Alabamians are clocking in and bringing home the bacon!

Record Employment!

Get this: Alabama's wage and salary employment hit a new high, with a whopping 2,223,800 jobs statewide! Leisure and hospitality, education, health services, and construction are leading the charge.

Secretary Reed's Pumped!

Workforce Secretary Greg Reed is stoked about the news. He highlighted the sustained momentum heading into the new year. “It’s always a good day when we are able to announce that we’ve set three new records in Alabama,” he said. He emphasized the commitment to keeping Alabama on top!

Local Love!

Shelby and Elmore counties are shining with unemployment rates of just 2.1%! Other counties are also showing off their low rates. Some areas are still facing challenges, but overall, the state is trending up!

Alabama Middle Schoolers Use AI to Tackle Cancer Research!

Who says middle school is just about awkward dances and dodgeball? A group of seriously bright students from the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) are proving age is just a number when it comes to groundbreaking science. They're getting national attention for using artificial intelligence to understand cancer treatments – a project that usually lives in university labs!

Big Award for Bright Minds

These young innovators snagged a $1,000 Promising STEM Innovation Award in the 2025–2026 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition. Their secret weapon? A collaboration with Birmingham-based biotech wizards, CerFlux.

Cracking the Cancer Code

Out of thousands of entries nationwide, the ASFA team stood out for their project. They're using AI and fancy imaging to figure out why some cancer treatments work for some patients and not others. Think of it as decoding the tumor's secrets! They're diving deep into data, analyzing images, and using AI to understand the tiny world around the tumor.

Real Science, Real Impact

Their project, "Human-Relevant Method to Match Cancer Treatments to Tumors," is all about matching the right treatments to the right patients. They're not just learning theories; they're tackling a real-world problem that impacts lives and global healthcare costs.

Mentor's Pride

Dr. Walter Uhoya, their mentor at ASFA, is bursting with pride. He believes this award proves what young students can achieve when they're given complex challenges and the freedom to think outside the box.

The Future is Now

CerFlux CEO Dr. Karim I. Budhwani is all about getting students involved in meaningful STEM work early on. He believes science is about making a real difference.

ASFA: Where Art Meets Science

ASFA, a public school that blends academics with creativity, is setting the stage for future innovators. Their hands-on approach to problem-solving is clearly paying off! For these middle schoolers, this award is just the beginning of a journey into the world of AI, medicine, and innovation. Who knows what they'll discover next?

Alabama's Week in a Nutshell - ChumCity Style!

Alright, ChumCity fam, let's dive into what's been shakin' in Alabama this week. Hold on to your hats!

Gamecocks Get Bowl Bragging Rights (Sort Of)

Jacksonville State University snagged a bowl win against Troy, making them the only Alabama team to do so this season. They even chirped at their rivals on X with a "1 of 1" post. But, uh, with Alabama having a non-bowl win at Oklahoma, the whole thing feels kinda...meh?

Tax Troubles Brewin'

Alabama cities like Tuscaloosa and Mobile are throwin' shade at the Simplified Sellers Use Tax, claiming it's chump change for local coffers. Counties and smaller towns are cool with the status quo, sparking legislative face-offs over destination taxation. Revenue chaos? Maybe!

Social Work School's DEI Program Returns

The University of Alabama School of Social Work's DSW program, with its DEI and anti-racism talks (think BIPOC men in social work, anti-racist teaching), is back in 2026. Dean Schnavia Smith Hatcher is leading the charge, but some are side-eyeing the legality of it all.

ACA Subsidies Get a Reprieve (Barely)

The U.S. House squeezed through a bill extending ACA subsidies for three years. A few Republicans jumped ship to vote with the Dems, despite the GOP leadership not being happy. Alabama's Republicans said "no," while the Dems said "yes," all while premiums climb and enrollment skyrockets.

Political Hot Takes Fly After Tragic Shooting

Doug Jones, lookin' like he just rolled out of bed, defended Renee Good as a fearful mother. Tommy Tuberville pointed fingers at the left for inciting violence. Katie Britt blamed the Democrats' "toxic rhetoric." Things are heated, y'all.

Border Patrol Incident in Portland

A U.S. Border Patrol agent shot a man and woman in Portland after the driver allegedly tried to run them over. Turns out, the Venezuelan passenger was in the U.S. illegally and affiliated with a gang. Portland's mayor is claiming the Trump administration is lying about something...stay tuned.

Media Frenzy Over Officer's Identity

The media and their Dem buddies got what they wanted: the name of the officer who shot Renee Nicole Good. Now they're painting him as the bad guy, while portraying the deceased as a sympathetic mom and poet. Protests are still raging!

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Catch Dale Jackson weekdays on WVNN from 5-9 a.m. He's got opinions for days!

Senator Britt Blasts Dem Leaders After Minneapolis Shooting

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) is pulling no punches, slamming Democratic leaders for what she calls "dangerous and irresponsible rhetoric" following a fatal shooting in Minneapolis. An ICE officer, acting in self-defense, shot and killed a woman who allegedly used her vehicle as a weapon.

Details Emerge About the Incident

According to the Department of Homeland Security, Renee Nicole Good died after being shot by an ICE agent. Reports suggest Good was "stalking and impeding" ICE agents throughout the day leading up to the incident.

Frey's Response Sparks Outrage

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey's immediate reaction, accusing the agent of murder and demanding ICE leave the city, has ignited further controversy.

Britt Speaks Out

Senator Britt addressed the situation, emphasizing the tragedy of the loss of life. She laid blame at the feet of the left, arguing they "have to assume responsibility for creating an environment that should have never existed."

The Root of the Problem?

Britt argues that extreme rhetoric against immigration officers is fostering a climate that encourages dangerous confrontations. She pointed out the personal sacrifices law enforcement officers make daily to ensure public safety.

Governor Walz Called Out

Britt specifically called out Minnesota Governor Tim Walz regarding comments he's made about the Trump administration.

Alarming Stats on Attacks Against ICE

"We have seen an increase of 1300% in actual assaults on ICE officers," Britt stated, "and we have actually seen an 8,000% increase on death threats to ICE officers."

A Plea for Responsibility

Britt concluded with a strong message: "We need to make sure that the people of our country know that our law enforcement officers are there to keep them safe... the left has got to stop... you have to be more responsible, and you have to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people who are here to keep us safe."

Birmingham Gets a New Advocate in Montgomery

Mayor Randall Woodfin just snagged a major player for Birmingham! Susan Kennedy, a lobbying and policy whiz with over 25 years of experience, is now Senior Counsel for External Affairs. Get ready, Alabama Legislature – Birmingham's voice just got a whole lot stronger!

Kennedy's Impressive Resume

Kennedy's background is seriously impressive, covering everything from economic development to tax policy and public budgeting. Woodfin is stoked, saying, "She lives in Birmingham, she understands the city’s needs, and she has the relationships and skills to serve us well.”

Making a Difference in Alabama

This Birmingham resident has worked with everyone from local governments to Fortune 100 companies and nonprofits. She even helped shape the Alabama Childcare Tax Credit. Talk about making a real impact!

Ready to Serve the City

Kennedy is pumped to join Team Woodfin, stating, "Mayor Woodfin already has a proven track record of finding innovative solutions, and I am deeply honored and excited to be a part of this exceptional team."

A Birmingham Powerhouse

Before joining the city, Kennedy was a Senior Advisor at Levitate Legal and Consulting and founded Kennedy Consulting. She's also held key roles at the Alabama Education Association and the Alabama Department of Revenue. With degrees from Emory University and Samford University's Cumberland School of Law, she's clearly a force to be reckoned with. Welcome aboard, Susan!

Manufacture Alabama Announces 2026 Endorsements

Get ready for the 2026 election cycle, folks! Manufacture Alabama has just revealed its endorsements for a whole slew of Alabama House members. These are the folks the organization believes have consistently backed the state's vital manufacturing sector.

Why These Lawmakers?

So, how did Manufacture Alabama choose these candidates? They took input from their member companies and looked at a few key things. They considered how engaged these lawmakers are with manufacturers in their districts, their support for industry priorities, and their overall work on policies that impact Alabama's economic game.

The Chosen Ones

Manufacture Alabama said these lawmakers have proven their commitment to advancing Alabama's manufacturing scene. Here's the list of endorsed Alabama House members for 2026:

Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-Rainsville) Jeana Ross (R-Guntersville) Phillip Pettus (R-Killen) Kerry Underwood (R-Tuscumbia) Parker Moore (R-Decatur) Danny Crawford (R-Athens) Andy Whitt (R-Ardmore) House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle) Heath Albright (R-Holly Pond) Cindy Myrex (R-Bremen) Leigh Hulsey (R-Helena) Bryan Brinyark (R-Windham Springs) Jamie Kiel (R-Russellville) Laura Hall (D-Huntsville) James Lomax (R-Huntsville) Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville) Mike Kirkland (R-Scottsboro) Brock Colvin (R-Albertville) Troy Stubbs (R-Prattville) Ben Robbins (R-Montgomery) David Standridge (R-Oneonta) Steve Hurst (R-Munford) Randy Wood (R-Anniston) Kristin Nelson Ginny Shaver (R-Leesburg) Chad Robertson (R-Heflin) Corley Ellis (R-Columbiana) Van Smith (R-Clanton) Arnold Mooney (R-Birmingham) Danny Garrett (R-Trussville) Susan Dubose (R-Hoover) David Faulkner (R-Homewood) Mike Shaw (R-Hoover) Jim Carns (R-Vestavia Hills) Russell Bedsole (R-Alabaster) Allen Treadaway (R-Morris) Kelvin Datcher (D-Birmingham) Minority Leader Anthony Daniels (D-Huntsville) Patrick Sellers (D-Birmingham) Rolanda Hollis (D-Birmingham) Ron Bolton (R-Northport) Bill Lamb (R-Tuscaloosa) Donna Givens (R-Loxley) Jessica Massey Ross (R-Chatom) Alan Baker (R-Brewton) Prince Chestnut (D-Selma) Kelvin Lawrence (D-Hayneville) Chris England (D-Tuscaloosa) AJ McCampbell (D-Demopolis) Curtis Travis (D-Tuscaloosa) Kenneth Paschal (R-Pelham) Reed Ingram (R-Mathews) Kenyatte Hassell (D-Montgomery) Joe Lovvorn (R-Auburn) Chris Blackshear (R-Smiths Station) Ed Oliver (R-Alexander City) Pebblin Warren (D-Tuskegee) Jeremy Gray (D-Opelika) Paul Lee (R-Dothan) Jeff Sorrells (R-Hartford) Jerry Starnes (R-Prattville) Marcus Paramore (R-Troy) Chris Sells (R-Greenville) Matthew Hammett (R-Dozier) Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) Jennifer Fidler (R-Fairhope) Frances Holk-Jones (R-Foley) Matt Simpson (R-Daphne) Napoleon Bracy (D-Saraland) Mark Shirey (R-Mobile) Chris Pringle (R-Mobile) Shane Stringer (R-Mobile) Barbara Drummond (D-Mobile) Margie Wilcox (R-Mobile) Chip Brown (R-Mobile)

What They're Saying

Jon Barganier, president and CEO of Manufacture Alabama, emphasized that Alabama's manufacturing success relies on leaders who "understand industry needs, support free market principles, and help create an environment where our companies can grow and compete."

A Strong Partnership

Manufacture Alabama highlighted the strong relationship between Alabama manufacturers and lawmakers. They're all focused on economic growth, workforce development, and keeping Alabama at the forefront of industry!

Shocking Details Emerge in Ella Cook Murder Case

Federal investigators have revealed disturbing details about the murder of Alabama native Ella Cook. The man responsible, they say, acted with chilling premeditation and displayed zero remorse, highlighting the sheer evil behind the tragic attack.

Remember Ella Cook

Ella Cook, a 19-year-old from Mountain Brook, was one of two victims in a devastating shooting at Brown University last December. The tragedy also left nine others injured, sending ripples of grief throughout Alabama, where Ella was remembered as a bright and driven young woman.

Chilling Confessions

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, an electronic device recovered from a storage unit rented by the shooter, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, contained a series of disturbing video recordings made after the attacks.

Premeditated Evil

In these videos, Neves Valente confessed to planning the Brown shooting for an extended period, admitting he had been preparing for the attack over multiple academic semesters. He offered no specific motive for targeting Brown University or for later killing an MIT professor.

"No Love for America"

Neves Valente also expressed a distinct lack of affection for the United States, stating that coming here was a "mistake." He said, "When I say that I have no hatred toward America, I also have no love for it… I think that coming here, both times I did, was a mistake.”

Immigration Lottery System

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem confirmed Neves Valente entered the U.S. through an immigration lottery system that has since been suspended. Noem stated that "this heinous individual should never have been allowed in our country.”

No Remorse, Only Self-Preservation

Investigators revealed that Neves Valente made it clear he felt no remorse and would not apologize. He admitted his primary objective was to avoid being the one who suffered the most as a result of his violence.

Calculated Attack

Authorities confirmed that the attack was deliberate, with Neves Valente planning the Brown University shooting for at least six academic semesters. He had been renting the storage unit for approximately three years before his body was found there.

A Community Mourns

For Ella Cook's family and the Alabama community, these newly released details underscore the calculated nature of the violence that took her life and the chilling mindset of the person behind it.

Kiffin Still Got Love for Ole Miss?

Lane Kiffin's had a rollercoaster ride lately, jumping from Ole Miss to LSU, but that didn't stop him from giving his old team a shout-out! Remember the drama? He had a huge decision – stay in Oxford or chase a dream job in Baton Rouge. It wasn't pretty, and he left some hurt feelings behind.

Rebels' Playoff Run and Kiffin's Tweets

Despite the past, Kiffin's been publicly cheering on Ole Miss during their College Football Playoff run. Talk about stirring the pot with both Rebels and Tigers fans!

After Ole Miss's heartbreaking Fiesta Bowl loss to Miami, Kiffin hopped on X (you know, the bird app) with some words for his former players.

"Best Season Ever!"

"Amazing effort and grit," Kiffin posted after the crushing 31-27 defeat. "Best season ever in the history of Ole Miss!!" Pretty supportive, right?

Pass Interference? Kiffin Weighs In

He even chimed in on that controversial final play where Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss tossed a long one that looked like it might have drawn a pass interference penalty. Kiffin's take? He definitely thought it was PI!

Whether you agree or not, Kiffin's coaching carousel ride is officially over, and he's aiming for a championship with LSU. But you just know when the Tigers roll into Oxford next season, those Rebels fans will be extra fired up to take down their ex-coach!

Athens Gets a Brand New Career Center!

Big news, Athens-Limestone! The Alabama Department of Workforce just threw open the doors to a sparkling new career center right on Athens State University's campus (Chasteen Hall, to be exact). Get ready to boost your job search!

Why Athens? Why Now?

Limestone County is BOOMING, and that means more jobs and a need for talented folks to fill them. This center is designed to connect eager job seekers with awesome local employers. Think of it as a super-powered matchmaker for your career!

What's on Offer?

This isn't just a bulletin board of job listings! We're talking resume workshops, job placement guidance, training programs, and even pre-screening of potential employees for businesses. Education, training, and employment are the name of the game!

A Year in the Making

This awesome new resource didn't happen overnight! It's the FIRST Workforce Alabama career center in the Tennessee Valley and has been in development for almost a year. It's a partnership between the Alabama Department of Workforce and Athens State University, bringing state-of-the-art workforce services directly to our community!

Senator Orr's Take

State Senator Arthur Orr is pumped about the new center, calling it a reflection of Limestone County's impressive growth and the urgent need to match workers with available opportunities. He even worked directly with the Secretary of the Alabama Department of Workforce to make it happen!

A Win-Win for Everyone!

Bottom line? This career center is a HUGE win for job seekers, employers, and the entire state. It's all about getting more people into the workforce and powering up our local economy. So, head down to Athens State and see how the Athens-Limestone Career Center can help you achieve your career goals! The center is open to the public.