Postpartum Depression: Alabama's Silent Struggle

Motherhood? Supposed to be blissful, right? But for too many Alabama moms, including myself, it's shadowed by postpartum depression (PPD). This isn't just a personal battle; it's a statewide crisis.

Nearly 16% of new Alabama mothers grapple with PPD. It's not just about individual suffering, it impacts families, our communities, and even our state's economy. Alabama can't afford to ignore this any longer! We need immediate action, so every mom can get the mental health support she needs.

The Economic Toll

A recent study by Safer Birth in Bama and PARCA revealed a shocking truth: Over 9,000 Alabama women experienced PPD in 2023 alone. The price tag of untreated maternal mental health conditions? A staggering $350 million per year.

This includes higher healthcare costs, lost wages, decreased workforce participation, and long-term developmental issues for our kids. This isn't just a women's health issue; it's an economic issue that touches every Alabamian!

Project Luna: A Step in the Right Direction

I launched Project Luna, through Safer Birth in Bama, offering free counseling and support to postpartum mothers, especially those with limited insurance. I've seen firsthand the struggles moms face when trying to access crucial mental health care.

While Project Luna helps fill the gaps, nonprofits alone can't solve this crisis. We need real, systemic policy changes to ensure all Alabama mothers get the help they deserve.

Barriers to Care

Too many Alabama moms face major obstacles when seeking PPD treatment. Medicaid covers many births in our state and has improved access to certain treatments, but it's still not enough.

We're facing a shortage of maternal mental health providers, long wait times, and financial hurdles that prevent women from seeking help. Without legislative action, these barriers will continue to harm thousands of mothers, at a huge cost to everyone.

SB191: A Solution

The Alabama Legislature has a chance to take the first step toward improving postpartum care. SB191, introduced by Sen. Vivian Davis Figures, would ensure all new mothers are screened for PPD and create educational materials about the condition. This proactive approach will help identify PPD sooner and educate new parents.

By ensuring consistent access to care and increasing education, this legislation offers a practical and cost-effective way to tackle Alabama's maternal mental health crisis.

Invest in Moms, Invest in Alabama

Supporting SB191 isn't just the right thing to do for mothers; it's a smart economic move. When moms receive the mental health care they need, they're more likely to return to work, create stable homes, raise healthy children, and contribute to our communities.

Alabama can lead the way in maternal health policy! We must act now to break down barriers, support our mothers, and build a stronger, healthier state for future generations. When mothers suffer, families suffer. And when families suffer, Alabama pays the price. Investing in maternal mental health is an investment in Alabama’s future. We cannot afford to let this opportunity pass us by!

Alisha Dreiling, LPC, IBCLC, PMH-C, leads Project Luna, an initiative of Safer Birth in Bama dedicated to expanding mental health support for mothers in Alabama.

Watch Out for Fake Toll Texts! Smishing is On the Rise!

Heads up, ChumCity! Those pesky scam texts claiming you owe money for unpaid tolls are getting smarter and more convincing. It's called "smishing," and they're designed to trick you into clicking fake links and handing over your personal info.

These texts often sound super urgent, saying you HAVE to pay right away to avoid late fees. Don't freak out! Being aware is your best defense against these scammers.

What's the Deal with Toll Scams?

Basically, they're bogus messages pretending you skipped a toll payment. They'll include a link to a fake website demanding immediate cash, sometimes even threatening fines or legal action.

"You might remember driving past a toll booth, but you're not totally sure," says Jeff Taylor, a fraud expert. "Be cautious and wait for an official letter! Usually, you'll get something in the mail if you really owe. No need to click random links!"

The FBI has seen almost 2,000 complaints about these scams!

"These messages are designed to make you react emotionally," explains Taylor. "They want you to click before you think. It might be a small amount, but once you pay, they have your credit card info and might come back for more!"

Five Ways to Ditch Those Toll Scam Trolls

Got a suspicious text? Don't panic, but don't ignore it either! Here's how to protect yourself:

1. Report It: File a complaint at the FBI's IC3. Include the sender's number and the link they sent.
2. Verify (Officially!): If you're not sure if you owe, log in directly to the toll authority's website, not through the link in the text!
3. Contact Support: Use the toll service's official contact info to check for violations.
4. Delete, Delete, Delete!: If a message seems fishy, don't click. Just trash it!
5. Act Fast if You Clicked: If you entered any info, call your bank ASAP, watch your accounts like a hawk, and dispute any weird charges.

Stay Sharp, ChumCity!

"If you get one of these toll scam texts, report and delete," says Kimberly Reece, a fraud expert. "Remove the threat and help stop these criminals!"

Freeze on Fire: Is Auburn's Coach Feeling the Heat?

Two seasons into the Hugh Freeze era, Auburn fans are itching for more than just recruiting wins. A record of 11-14, five SEC victories, and a single, not-so-glamorous bowl appearance has some folks starting to sweat. Freeze has been given a pass because his recruiting has been superb, maybe the best ever. But at some point, you gotta win games!

All Eyes on Auburn

It sounds like this is the year. Freeze has his best roster yet, but also the most pressure to deliver.

Connor O'Gara of Saturday Down South didn't mince words on "The Next Round," suggesting that Freeze's seat is scorching hot: "I think Hugh Freeze has the hottest seat of anybody in college football… It’s such a ‘prove it’ year for him."

Comparing the Pressure Cooker

O'Gara even put Freeze's situation alongside that of Florida's Billy Napier, who may have dodged a bullet due to his star quarterback. Freeze doesn't have that safety net, but does have what could be Auburn's best receiving corps ever.

Time to Deliver

"He enters next season on a hot seat and it's such a prove it year for him." O'Gara emphasized.

Can Freeze turn things around and get Auburn back on the winning track? Only time will tell, but one thing's clear: he needs to show results this year. Another season of close losses and underachievement, and Freeze might find himself looking for a new job.

Fire at Benny G. Adkins Veterans Home in Enterprise

Whoa! A fire broke out at the Benny G. Adkins Veterans Home in Enterprise around 5:45 p.m. on Wednesday, forcing the evacuation of approximately 91 residents. And get this – the place just opened!

Firefighters Respond

The Enterprise Fire Department wasted no time, arriving on the scene and even cutting into the roof to stop the fire's spread. They battled through the night, contending with a complex building design to keep the flames from spreading further.

Fire Contained

Good news! As of Thursday morning, first responders say the fire is contained to the building's exterior roof. Huge relief!

Residents Safe

Even better news: no injuries were reported! All residents are now safe and sound at Enterprise Health and Rehab.

Community Support

First responders from Dothan, Opp, Troy, New Brockton, Elba, and Ariton pitched in with mutual aid. Surrounding fire departments stepped up to provide fire coverage.

Leaders Weigh In

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville asked for prayers for those affected as solutions are found. Senator Katie Britt praised the rescue workers and the Enterprise community for their quick response and support of the displaced veterans. Hats off to everyone involved!

Another "Hero" Bites the Dust?

So, the media and their Democrat pals are at it again, huh? Seems like they've got a real knack for picking the least likely candidates to champion as heroes. Seriously, do they even vet these people?

Dale Jackson Weighs In

Speaking of folks with opinions, Dale Jackson, the brains behind Yellowhammer News and the voice you hear weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN, probably has something to say about this. What's your take?

Tech Group Slams Alabama Child Online Safety Bill

An Apple-backed tech advocacy group has launched a digital ad campaign in Alabama targeting SB187, a proposed child online safety bill. They're calling it a major threat to both businesses and internet safety.

App Association Speaks Out

The App Association, funded by the Association for Competitive Technology, is behind the ad. It argues the bill "makes doing business more costly and makes the internet less safe." The campaign uses images of kids on devices and encourages viewers to "learn more" about what they say are unintended consequences.

SB187 Under Fire

SB187, sponsored by Sen. Clyde Chambliss, would put new rules on app store providers and developers. It requires parental consent before minors download apps or make purchases and share user age data with developers. Violations could be classified as deceptive trade practices, with hefty fines.

Apple's Influence Questioned

While the group claims to champion small developers, reports suggest Apple heavily funds ACT. This raises questions about the tech giant's sway over the group's stance and lobbying efforts.

Broad Support vs. Tech Concerns

Polling shows Alabamians broadly support requiring parental approval for app downloads. However, tech industry groups are worried about compliance burdens and verifying ages without compromising privacy.

What's Next for SB187?

Earlier this year, Utah passed similar age-verification rules. SB187 passed its initial Senate committee in February. If it becomes law, it will take effect next year.

Longshore & McKnight Dish on Transfer Portal Mayhem!

John and Barry were all over the college football transfer portal action on today's show! They kicked things off by pondering Nico Iamaleava's rumored move from Tennessee to UCLA. Could that really happen?

NIL & Loyalty: A New Era?

The guys didn't hold back discussing the impact of NIL deals and whether player loyalty is becoming a thing of the past. They pointed to Baylor's basketball team – basically a whole new squad after the portal craziness!

Roster Turnover: Good or Bad for Fans?

Is all this roster flipping going to alienate fans? John and Barry wondered if season ticket holders might start feeling disconnected if they don't recognize the players.

Auburn Spring Buzz with Jason Caldwell

Auburn Undercover's Jason Caldwell joined the show, sharing some exciting spring developments down on the Plains. He raved about the team's improvement under Coach Freeze and how Deuce Knight is already turning heads! Plus, keep an eye out, Auburn might be hunting for D-line help in the portal.

Bama QB Battle: Simpson in the Lead?

Finally, Rodney Orr from Tider Insider gave the lowdown on Alabama's QB situation. He thinks Ty Simpson's got the edge right now, but the competition is far from over!

Long-Overdue Honor: Huntsville Vet Finally Receives Purple Heart!

Get ready for a feel-good story, ChumCity! Huntsville's own Sgt. John McCulloch is finally being recognized for his bravery after a long, hard fight. Back in February 2007, while on patrol in northern Iraq, an IED explosion left him wounded and with lasting health challenges.

Decades-Long Wait Ends

Despite his sacrifice, the Purple Heart was nowhere in sight… for nearly two decades! McCulloch spent years trying to get the medal he deserved, navigating red tape and bureaucracy.

Congressman Steps Up

Frustrated after five years of going it alone, McCulloch turned to U.S. Rep. Dale W. Strong for help. "I tried on my own... and even with all the proper documentation, I couldn't get anyone to do anything," McCulloch stated.

Justice Served

Strong (R-Huntsville) jumped into action, working with the Army Human Resources Command to secure the Purple Heart. He recently presented the medal to McCulloch at his Huntsville office.

A Proud Moment

"I'm proud to secure this well-deserved Purple Heart for Sergeant McCulloch," Strong said. "Our country should cherish its wounded veterans, and this decoration ensures that sacrifices in battle are not forgotten back home." Strong emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices of veterans like McCulloch.

Need Help, Vets?

If you're a vet needing assistance with military records, the VA, or any service-related casework, Congressman Strong's office is ready to help! Give them a call at 256-551-0190.

(Story courtesy of 256 Today)

Lee Corso's Saying Goodbye to GameDay!

Get ready to say goodbye to a college football icon! ESPN's legendary Lee Corso is hanging up his mascot head after one final College GameDay appearance during the first week of the upcoming season.

The End of an Era

For nearly four decades, Corso's been a Saturday morning staple, dazzling us with his mascot head picks and infectious enthusiasm. While he's slowed down a bit in recent years, his retirement still marks a massive change for college football fanatics everywhere.

A Treasure Trove of Memories

After an amazing 38 seasons with ESPN, Corso expressed gratitude for the opportunity. "My family and I will be forever indebted... ESPN has been exceptionally generous," he said. He also gave a shoutout to Kirk Herbstreit and, of course, the fans who made it all worthwhile.

The Mascot Head Legacy

And speaking of those picks? Corso's rocked the mascot head a whopping 430 times, racking up an impressive 286-144 record! Big Al from Alabama has graced his head 38 times, second only to Ohio State's Brutus Buckeye.

One Last Hoorah!

Mark your calendars! Corso's final broadcast is set for Week 1 of the 2025 CFB season, shortly after his 90th birthday. It's sure to be an emotional and memorable send-off for a true legend of the game.

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