Alabama Senator Katie Britt Hailed as Shutdown Savior!

Fox News is giving serious props to Alabama Senator Katie Britt for her role in ending the recent government shutdown – the longest in U.S. history! Apparently, she was a key player behind the scenes, and folks are taking notice.

"Rock Star" Senator Steps Up

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) even called Britt a "rock star," acknowledging her leading role in the intense negotiations. Sounds like she was in the thick of it!

Behind-the-Scenes Heroics

Fox News reports Britt spent weeks quietly working to rebuild trust between Republicans and Democrats during the 43-day standoff. Talk about a challenge! They say she helped create a bipartisan coalition to finally get the government back up and running.

Experience Pays Off

Britt herself says her past experience in government helped guide her to a successful outcome.

Britt's Take on the Situation

"I’m grateful for those who stepped up and said we can’t let everyday Americans suffer," Britt told Fox News. She also pointed out that some folks seemed more focused on political consultants than their actual constituents. Ouch!

The Strategy That Worked

Senator Britt suggested moving forward with three spending bills, a strategy Fox News credits with jump-starting the stalled Senate and giving both parties a clear path to reopen the government.

How She Did It

"I asked them, why?" Britt said, referring to the bipartisan support these bills had previously received. "That's why I really leaned into conversations...saying, 'Look, here’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to work to fund these three bills. And if we do that, you know, here will be the ultimate result of it.'"

Wins for Alabama (and Everyone Else!)

The deal that reopened the government ensured full-year military funding, a major win for Alabama, while keeping essential operations funded and making sure federal workers get their back pay. Not too shabby, Senator Britt!

Gulf of America: Hurricane-Free?!

You probably haven't heard this anywhere else, and the national media likely won't tell you: the Gulf of America has been COMPLETELY hurricane-free this year!

A Gulf With No Storms?

Believe it or not, the 2025 hurricane season officially wrapped up on November 30th with absolutely ZERO tropical storms or hurricanes hitting the Gulf. Nada. Zilch.

Trump's Magical Renaming?

Remember President Trump renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America" earlier this year? Coincidence? Some say it's a stroke of genius, a protective shield for our Gulf states. Since the switch, it seems like Mother Nature is playing ball.

A Season of Peace

From June 1st to November 30th, the entire hurricane season came and went without a single landfall. Any storms either fizzled out at sea or decided to visit other, less-American shores.

American Ocean, Anyone?

Maybe Trump should rename the Atlantic the "American Ocean" next! After all, North and South America make up most of its western boundary. Just a thought!

Trump's "Bragging" Rights?

Expect to see President Trump taking credit for this soon! What some call bragging, others call "pointing out the obvious positives the mainstream media conveniently ignores."

No Storms 'Til Next June (At Least!)

With the 2025 season done, we're likely storm-free until June 2026! That's plenty of time for Trump supporters to celebrate and Never-Trumpers to roll their eyes.

Regions Bank Welcomes Andy Voress to Affordable Housing Team!

Big news from Regions Bank! Andy Voress is joining Regions Affordable Housing as the new head of Investor Sales and Servicing. Get ready for some serious affordable housing action!

Overseeing Key Relationships and Strategies

Andy will be the point person for awesome clients who are breathing life into new and revitalized developments. He'll also be steering distribution and funding strategies for Regions Affordable Housing, plus leading capital-raising initiatives to boost access to affordable homes in growing markets nationwide. Talk about impact!

A Wealth of Experience

With 18 years under his belt, Andy brings a treasure trove of industry know-how. He'll be putting his strategic smarts to work across Regions Affordable Housing's funding platforms.

Reporting to the Top

Andy will be reporting directly to Katie Such, head of Regions Affordable Housing.

What the Boss Says

"Andy Voress is a rockstar in affordable housing," says Katie Such. "He's got the financial chops and the laser focus on making affordable housing a reality. His LIHTC skills will supercharge our ability to help our Regions Affordable Housing family."

A Proven Track Record

Before joining Regions, Andy held leadership roles at major LIHTC syndicators, including CREA, LLC and Raymond James. He also spearheaded the affordable housing tax credit investment program for Allstate.

The Credentials

Andy's got the academic cred too! He earned degrees from Augustana College and DePaul University, and he's a CFA Charterholder and a Certified Public Accountant. Impressive!

Andy's Take

"Regions has a legacy of making a real difference in communities," Andy says. "Affordable housing is crucial for economic growth, and Regions is leading the charge. I'm thrilled to join this team and deliver top-notch service and solutions."

Big Pharma's Got Us All Feeling Blue in Alabama

Here in Alabama, we're all about making every dollar count. We're responsible folks, taking care of our families and paying our dues. But those darn prescription drug costs? Big Pharma keeps moving the goalposts, leaving us paying through the nose!

Exploding Costs, Exploding Profits

Over the last decade, the price of essential meds has skyrocketed. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical companies are raking in record profits and throwing millions at Washington lobbyists to keep things just as they are. They keep bumping up the prices, and it feels like Washington just shrugs.

Enough is Enough!

It's time to put America—and Alabama—first! We need to reel in Big Pharma's greed. A recent national survey from the Pharmaceutical Reform Alliance (PRA) confirms what we already know: we're all fed up, no matter what side of the aisle we're on.

The Numbers Don't Lie

• A whopping 85% of voters say prescription drug prices are going up.
• 81% agree Big Pharma is ripping us off with yearly price hikes.
• 85% support "America First" reforms to get us the same deals other countries do.

We're Paying More for the Same Stuff!

Think about it: we're paying the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs, while folks overseas are paying pennies on the dollar for the exact same stuff. That's not fair! That's not a free market! And it definitely ain't putting Americans first!

Time to Stand Up for Ourselves

Remember when President Trump signed his Most-Favored Nation order? That was a message: American patients deserve a fair shake!

That's the kind of common-sense leadership we need – leadership that puts us, the workers, families, and seniors of America, first.

Big Pharma's Dirty Tricks

Instead of helping us, Big Pharma spends billions on misleading ads and sneaky political donations to keep Congress quiet. That's not how America should work, folks!

Congress Needs to Listen!

Congress needs to act – not for those DC lobbyists, but for the folks in Dothan, Decatur, and Demopolis who are struggling to afford their medications.

We need to rein in those sky-high prices, close loopholes that delay cheaper generics, and end those sweet tax deals that let Big Pharma get rich while we go without.

We're Not Gonna Take It Anymore!

We're tired of being taken advantage of. We're ready for reforms that protect us, promote competition, and put our own citizens first.

We've seen what happens when Big Pharma calls the shots: they get rich, and we get stuck with the bill. It's time to flip the script!

The Alabama Way

Because here in America, we don't bow to corporate interests. We stand up for our people. That's the American way. That's the Alabama way!

ChumCity's Daily Dose of WTF?!

Here's your daily rundown of the ridiculousness, brought to you by Dale Jackson. Buckle up!

Pajama Police!

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's officially had it with your inflight fashion choices. He wants the pajama and slipper brigade to hang it up and bring back some civility to the skies! Etiquette experts are backing him up, because apparently, no one throws down in a three-piece suit. (Challenge accepted?).

Lanning's Got SEC Beef

Oregon coach Dan Lanning is laying down the smack talk after stomping USC. He says the Big Ten is tougher, throwing shade at those "cupcake-heavy" SEC schedules. Pot meet kettle?

Ukraine Peace Plan: Trump Edition, Rewritten

The U.S. and Ukraine are circling around a new 19-point peace plan, reportedly ditching Trump's 28-point wish list. Translation: less Donbas, less ditching NATO, and fewer army cuts. The border? That's for Trump and Zelensky to hash out...directly.

Alabama Senate Race: Filibuster Fight!

Alabama's AG Steve Marshall, gunning for the U.S. Senate, is drawing a line in the sand. He's all about keeping the filibuster to block Biden's agenda, slamming rival Barry Moore's "abolish it all!" stance. Get ready for some fireworks.

Dem Candidate: Rage Against the Machine

Jeremy Devito, a Dem congressional hopeful, apparently went full-on theatrical. We're talking "F**k ICE forever!" and comparing agents to the "American Gestapo." Apparently, the crowd went wild (or maybe they were just stunned).

Doug Jones's Zombie Comeback?

Former Senator Doug Jones is quietly tiptoeing towards a 2026 gubernatorial run. Meanwhile, Governor-elect Tommy Tuberville (also a U.S. Senator and national champion coach) is probably laughing into his Auburn-branded coffee mug.

Bondi's Back for More

Attorney General Pam Bondi is ready to rumble, promising to appeal the dismissal of indictments against Comey and James. She wants accountability! And maybe some accountability for Senator Mark Kelly, accused of trying to rile up servicemembers. Stay tuned, folks.

Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. Announces Retirement Plans!

Big news coming out of Troy University! Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., the Chancellor and the longest-serving CEO of any public university in the nation, is gearing up to retire. But don't worry, Trojans, it's not happening overnight!

A Smooth Transition

Dr. Hawkins, with the full support of the Board of Trustees, is planning a three-year leadership transition, officially stepping down at the end of 2028. The Board actually asked him to stick around a bit longer, so you know they value his guidance!

Years of Dedicated Service

Under the plan, Dr. Hawkins will remain Chancellor until December 31, 2027, then transition into an advisory role for his final year. Gibson Vance, President Pro Tem of the Board, emphasized that this extended transition is a fitting tribute to Hawkins' incredible dedication over nearly four decades.

A Legacy of Growth

Since being appointed Chancellor back in 1989, Dr. Hawkins has overseen amazing growth at Troy University – academics, infrastructure, international presence, and especially support for military students have all flourished under his leadership. We're talking over $400 million in capital improvements and expansion into a truly global institution!

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Dr. Hawkins is quick to credit the entire Trojan community for the University's success. He says he's proud of what he and his wife have achieved, emphasizing that it's always a team effort!

Student-Focused Leader

University leaders and alumni agree that Dr. Hawkins has set a high standard for student-focused leadership. He's described as a visionary servant-leader who always puts students first.

A Global Impact

Troy Alumni Board President Jack Weaver notes that the Chancellor's impact is felt by all 175,000 alumni worldwide. They deeply admire his vision, integrity, and lasting contributions to the University.

What's Next?

While it's sad to see him go, alumni are united in supporting the transition. Dr. Hawkins' legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape Troy University for years to come.

UAB Football Rocked by Stabbing Incident

Just hours before UAB's Senior Day kickoff, the Blazer football program faced an unimaginable crisis. Early Saturday morning, two players were stabbed inside the university's Football Operations facility. According to UAB officials, a teammate is now in custody.

Players Hospitalized, Suspect Arrested

Birmingham Fire and Rescue confirmed that both injured players were rushed to UAB Hospital. The university later reported that the athletes had been stabbed but were in stable condition. Redshirt freshman Daniel Israel Mincey, 20, was arrested and booked into the Jefferson County Jail on charges of aggravated assault and attempted murder. Authorities have not released the names of the injured players due to the ongoing investigation.

Team Played with "Heavy Hearts"

Interim head coach Alex Mortensen started his post-game press conference by acknowledging the team's "heavy hearts." He emphasized that the team's primary concern was for their injured teammates, not the game or their record.

Decision to Play Left to the Team

Mortensen stated, "More than anything, I’m grateful that those two players are in stable condition, and we will make sure that they have the support that they need." UAB athletic officials confirmed that coaches and university leaders considered canceling the game. However, after learning that both hospitalized players were stable, the decision was left to the team. Some players chose not to participate, and their decisions were respected.

Call for Compassion and Privacy

Mortensen urged the public to show empathy and support, saying, "I hope you will join me in lifting them and their families in your thoughts and prayers." He also requested privacy for the injured players due to personal and legal considerations, and stated that he would not provide further details about the incident or those involved. He concluded by expressing gratitude for the team's resilience, especially on a day dedicated to honoring seniors. "It’s a testament to our team’s dedication to each other and to UAB," he said.

Election Security Shakeup?

Alabama State Auditor Andrew Sorrell, already eyeing the 2026 Secretary of State gig, is fired up about election security. He's pushing for a brand-new election security division within the Secretary of State's office.

An Alabama First?

"Other states have election integrity divisions, but Alabama does not!" Sorrell's campaign is shouting from the rooftops. He envisions a dedicated team cracking down on voter roll inaccuracies, sniffing out fraud, and generally beefing up our election system against shenanigans. Seems like he thinks there's enough fishy business going on to warrant the extra manpower.

Fort Deposit Fiasco Fuels the Fire

Sorrell's pointing to a recent election mess in Fort Deposit as Exhibit A. A judge found hundreds of illegal absentee votes cast in the town's municipal election back in August, leading to a do-over election set for January 2026.

"More Votes Than Voters!"

Sorrell recently chatted about it on WVNN's "The Yaffee Program," highlighting the absurdity of a situation where "in a town of about 900 people, they have over 1,000 votes." He made it clear that more votes than voters equals election fraud.

It's Happening All Over, Folks!

Sorrell's convinced this isn't an isolated incident. "This is happening all over Alabama," he claims, suggesting vote-stealing happens on both sides of the political aisle. Hence, the need for his proposed election integrity division.

Original Idea Man

Sorrell also suggests the idea is his, and that he was advocating for it well before his opponent entered the race.

The Opposition

Sorrell is running against Montgomery attorney Caroleene Dobson for the position.

Wiregrass Drug Ring Busted! Final Member Sentenced

The last piece of a HUGE drug trafficking organization that was wreaking havoc in Alabama's Wiregrass region is finally behind bars! This is the culmination of a multi-year investigation led by the DEA and a ton of awesome local law enforcement partners.

The Edwards Brothers' Reign of Terror Ends

Terrell Edwards, 45, from Ozark, just got slapped with a 240-month sentence after a jury found him guilty of dealing meth, cocaine, and heroin. The U.S. Attorney's Office confirmed he'll also have three years of supervised release. No parole for federal inmates – you know the deal!

This whole thing kicked off in early 2023, when investigators started digging into drug activity linked to 46-year-old Terrance Edwards, also from Ozark. Turns out, the Edwards brothers were key players in a 15-person operation flooding Wiregrass communities with illegal substances.

Key Players Face Justice

Terrance Edwards, identified as a major leader, got a whopping 408-month sentence back in March 2025, plus five years of supervised release.

"The Edwards brothers and their crew were poisoning the Wiregrass with narcotics," said Acting U.S. Attorney Kevin Davidson. "These sentences show we're serious about protecting our communities from drug trafficking."

DEA Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer added, "This wraps up a massive investigation that took down a major drug ring. These guys were pumping meth, cocaine, and heroin into our neighborhoods for way too long..."

More Bad Guys Go Down

Here's a rundown of some other defendants and their sentences:

• Deondre Ferebee, 43, Ozark – 210 months
• Carlos Olivo Ynirio-Sanchez, 24, Dominican Republic – 168 months
• Anthony Williams, 46, Ozark – 156 months
• Michael Sanford, 54, Brundidge – 150 months
• Corey Jones, 39, Midland City – 144 months
• Frazier Franklin, 47, Dothan – 120 months
• Kevin McLeod, 48, Enterprise – 120 months
• Aaron Jiles, 46, Ozark – 84 months
• Cornelius Kilow, 48, Ariton – 84 months
• Kevon Green, 37, Ozark – 67 months
• Dontavia Barrow, 46, Brundidge – 60 months
• Palmere Ritter, 39, Dothan – 44 months
• Willie C. Matthews, 55, Fort Walton Beach, FL – 30 months

Everyone's getting supervised release after their prison time, according to prosecutors.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Major props to the DEA, police in Eufaula, Dothan, and Ozark, and the sheriffs' offices in Houston and Dale counties for their hard work on this case! Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chelsea Wilson and Mark Andreu handled the prosecution.

Alabama Power Promises to Hold the Line on Rates!

Big news, ChumCity! Alabama Power is stepping up to bat with a plan to keep your electric bills from skyrocketing for the next two years! They're aiming for some serious rate stability, folks.

What's the Deal?

According to a recent filing, Alabama Power wants to freeze several rate factors in place through 2027. This means no sneaky add-on charges bumping up your costs in 2026 and 2027. They're even talking about using some internal cost-cutting magic to make it happen.

Keeping Costs Down

They plan to hold the line on some adjustable charges, including Rate CNP Part C and the interim fuel-cost (ECR) factor. Plus, they're pushing back a plant cost adjustment until 2028.

What Alabama Power Says:

"We're all about helping customers manage those power bills," says Alabama Power. "Budgets are tight, and we get that. We want to give you some certainty with your electric rates, especially when everything else seems to be going up."

A Little Caveat...

Of course, the amount of juice you use still matters! Crank up that AC or let the heat blast, and your bill will still reflect it. And, naturally, unforeseen disasters could throw a wrench in the works.

Fewer Surprises on the Horizon?

Fingers crossed, if the Alabama Public Service Commission gives the green light, we could be seeing fewer surprises on our energy bills for the next couple of years. Stay tuned, ChumCity!