Hot off the Press: The Bussey Brief Lands at The Rightside!

ChumCity, get ready for a fresh dose of real talk! The Rightside has just unleashed The Bussey Brief, a brand-new segment featuring the one and only Katelyn Bussey!

Gen Z Takes on Washington

Katelyn's joining Allison Sinclair and Amie Beth Shaver to dish out unfiltered commentary on the wild world of politics, culture, and current events – all through a Gen Z lens. Think of it as Washington D.C. meets reality, served with a side of sass!

What's The Bussey Brief All About?

Expect Katelyn's hot takes on everything from the latest news to Gen Z's relationship with politics. She'll break down what's really going on inside the D.C. bubble and explore the trends shaping the next generation's view of America. No topic is off-limits!

"Politics Doesn't Exist in a Vacuum"

Katelyn says it best: "Politics lives inside culture, inside the conversations people are actually having!" She's stoked to be joining The Rightside and bringing Gen Z into the mix. Prepare for politics to get a whole lot more interesting.

Catch The Bussey Brief Every Friday!

Tune in to The Rightside Podcast every Friday at 10:30 AM to catch The Bussey Brief. Get ready for candid, direct, and totally unfiltered commentary. The Rightside airs daily 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Alabama Congressman Calls for Redistricting Rethink

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore from Alabama is urging state lawmakers to redraw the congressional map. This comes after a recent Supreme Court decision involving Louisiana that Moore believes backs away from race-based redistricting.

Special Session on the Horizon

Governor Kay Ivey has called for a special session to redraw Alabama’s congressional map in response to the court's ruling. This gives lawmakers another shot at shaping district lines before the 2026 elections.

The Louisiana Case

The case, Louisiana v. Callais, questions whether Louisiana's map – meant to comply with the Voting Rights Act – relied too heavily on race, possibly violating the Equal Protection Clause. This decision digs back into questions about how race should be considered when redrawing districts.

Moore's Stance

In response to the ruling, Moore sees it as a wider rejection of maps drawn based on race and wants Alabama to take a different approach.

A Call for Fairness

"Politicians have been trying to divide Americans by race to create political maps that favor one party. My own district was redrawn to weaken conservative voices," Moore stated. "This decision is a victory for fairness and equal protection. Your vote should matter no matter who you are or where you live.”

Representing Alabama

Moore added, “Alabama has stood strong. It's time our Congressional delegation reflects that. The Alabama Legislature needs to act and redraw these districts fairly and constitutionally, representing our communities.” He concluded, "We should be drawing districts based on communities, not race. The Constitution demands it, and the American people deserve it."

Alabama's Unique Situation

This issue is particularly important in Alabama, where congressional maps have been legally challenged multiple times.

Balancing Act Ahead

Unlike other states, Alabama has lost redistricting challenges on both Voting Rights Act grounds and separate Equal Protection Clause claims. As lawmakers prepare for the special session, they must balance federal voting protections with constitutional limits on using race in redistricting.

Alabama Power: Trustworthy Titans!

Big news for Alabama Power! They've been crowned one of America's Most Trustworthy Companies for 2026 by Newsweek, snagging the No. 8 spot in the Energy & Utilities game.

How'd They Do It?

Newsweek teamed up with Statista to survey a whopping 25,000 Americans – customers, employees, and investors alike – gathering over 100,000 opinions. Talk about a deep dive!

Trust Earned, Not Given

This wasn't just a popularity contest. The survey focused on how these groups really feel about a company's trustworthiness.

Clean Record Required

And get this: Newsweek axed any company with recent scandal baggage. So, making the list means Alabama Power passed a serious credibility check!

Bama Represent!

Alabama Power is one of only four Alabama companies making the list, proving the state's got some seriously reliable businesses. Others included Construction Partners, AMN Healthcare, and Hibbett.

Alabama House: Expect the Same Faces, Same Party

Get ready for deja vu, ChumCity! The Alabama House of Representatives is shaping up to look a whole lot like... well, itself. Just like the State Senate, big changes are scarce. Incumbency is king, with over 80% of seats going unchallenged.

The GOP's Firm Grip

The partisan makeup? Pretty much unchanged. Expect a rock-solid Republican supermajority, hovering around 75%. The leadership? Rock solid, too, guaranteeing continuity between now and the next election cycle.

Key Players Return

Leading the charge is Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (R-DeKalb), a respected and powerful figure. By his side, the ever-affable Chris Pringle (R-Mobile) as Pro Tem. Major committee chairs? They're back, too! Joe Lovvorn (R-Auburn) helms Rules, while Danny Garrett (R-Trussville) and Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville) oversee the budget.

Republican Stalwarts

The Republican leadership team is a who's who of familiar faces, including Paul Lee (R-Dothan), Andy Whitt (R-Huntsville), Matt Simpson (R-Mobile), and many more. Veteran Steve Clouse (R-Ozark) is back for his ninth term, continuing to lead the Wiregrass crew.

Rising Stars and a Showdown

Keep an eye on young guns Brock Colvin (R-Marshall), Parker Moore (R-Morgan), and James Lomax (R-Huntsville). Lomax faces an interesting challenge from none other than ex-Congressman Mo Brooks in Madison County. All eyes will be on this race!

More GOP Names to Watch

Other Republican legislators gaining momentum include Susan DuBose (R-Shelby), Corley Ellis (R-Shelby), Phillip Pettus (R-Lauderdale), and a whole host of others from across the state.

Up-and-Comers

Watch out for Bryan Brinyark (R-Tuscaloosa/Fayette), Kristin Nelson (R-Chambers), Norman Crow (R-Tuscaloosa), Jeana Ross (R-Marshall), Cindy Myrex (R-Cullman), and Heath Allbright (R-Cullman). They all have massive potential.

Races to Watch

Marilyn Lands (D) fights to keep her Huntsville seat blue. Alva Lambert is trying to flip a Democratic seat in Montgomery to red. The Houston/Henry County clash between Rick Rehm and David Money will be fireworks!

The Democratic Contingent

Anthony Daniels (D-Huntsville) is back, leading a stellar cast of seasoned Democratic legislators. He's a special talent!

Democratic Women of Influence

Laura Hall (D-Huntsville), Pebblin Warren (D-Macon/Tuskegee), Barbara Boyd (D-Calhoun), and Mary Moore (D-Jefferson) are all returning to the House.

Wise Counsel

Thomas Jackson (D-Clarke), Berry Forte (D-Barbour), Sam Jones (D-Mobile), and others will bring their experience and wisdom to the table.

The Bottom Line

Expect stability and experience. The Alabama House of Representatives will be led by Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter, a steady hand.

Delta & Bay Conservation Center Reopens with a Bang!

After a year of awesome upgrades, the Alabama Wildlife Federation's (AWF) Delta & Bay Conservation Center at 5 Rivers is officially back in action! Last week's grand reopening was packed with local bigwigs and state officials, all stoked about the center's fresh new direction.

AWF Executive Director Tim Gothard welcomed the massive crowd, ready to cut the ribbon on the 70-acre paradise located on the Battleship Parkway (Causeway).

A Vision Realized

Gothard reminisced about the 20-year journey, from dreaming up the AWF Nature Center at Lanark to the amazing reality of the Delta & Bay Center. He emphasized the importance of connecting kids with nature. "We realized there is a lot more competition for their time. We felt like we were losing that fundamental connection to the outdoors," he said.

Expansion Down South

Inspired by the success of the AWF Nature Center, the AWF board looked to expand their outreach, especially to south Alabama. "I’m excited to see this many people here to help us celebrate the beginning of the second part of our journey with the AWF Delta & Bay Conservation Center at 5 Rivers," Gothard shared.

A Family Legacy

Former Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson spoke about the Stimpson family's crucial role in the AWF's creation. His grandfather, Fred T. Stimpson, was a founding member! He spoke of the "obligation to perpetuate the culture" of conservation. "There’s got to be a voice for wildlife conservation to balance the conversation.”

Giving Back to Nature

Angus Cooper III, representing the Cooper family, another prominent name in AWF's growth, echoed the sentiment. "Most conservation groups want to give back, and we saw a trend of young people not getting to experience all the things that we loved." He added, "There are not many times in life when you get to be part of something special, and the AWF is special."

Looking Ahead

Current AWF President Tim Wood thanked the community for embracing the vision for the Delta & Bay Center. "When we cut the ribbon, we’re opening a lot of doors to a lot of people. These young people are going to experience what we did growing up in the country in everyday living. We’re looking forward to a lot of great things here.”

A Jewel of the Delta

ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship praised the partnership with AWF. "By partnering with AWF and them being able to expand the recreational and educational offerings... it’s really going to be even more of a jewel than it was before."

What's New at the Center?

Former ADCNR Marine Resources Director Scott Bannon, now Delta & Bay Center Director, is pumped to make the center a top-notch educational experience. The former gift shop is now a conference center! Hiking trails have been revamped, making them accessible to all.

The Exhibit Hall and Discovery Hall are getting a makeover. The Delta Hall is now a science-based zone with a theater and classrooms, while the Blakeley Hall will host summer camps! "We also cleared some of the property to provide better views of the Delta, and we are hosting school field trips daily. We will have about 600 kids from the area here this week alone," Bannon said. Get out there and explore!

Thorsby Rallies Around Family After Heartbreaking Loss

The small town of Thorsby is showing some serious heart! After the tragic loss of 8-year-old Eli Barnes, a young baseball player cherished for his infectious energy and love of the game, the community has come together in a big way.

Remembering Eli "No. 14"

Eli, known on the field as No. 14, was a bright light. Friends remember him as a kind-hearted kid whose enthusiasm lifted everyone around him. That spirit is now being honored across Thorsby.

Baseball Community Unites

Local teams are dedicating games to Eli, with players of all ages proudly wearing his No. 14 jersey as a sign of unity and remembrance. One particularly touching moment saw Eli's younger brother, Parker, take the field wearing No. 14, surrounded by the love and support of the community. According to Piper Peach Radio, the games turned into a symbol of standing beside a grieving family.

Town-Wide Support

The impact extends way beyond the ballfield. The entire town of Thorsby, and even wider across Chilton County, is rallying around the Barnes family. Classrooms, churches, and neighborhoods are sharing messages of support during this incredibly difficult time.

Fundraising and Continued Tributes

Vigils, prayer gatherings, and tributes continue, with players wearing Eli's number and moments of silence observed at local parks. A fundraising effort has also been launched to help the Barnes family and create future tributes to honor Eli's memory.

In Thorsby, No. 14 is more than just a jersey; it's a symbol of a young life that left a powerful mark. This is a town where neighbors truly show up for each other, and Eli's memory is being carried forward by a community determined to keep his light shining bright.

Saban's Halftime "Ass-Chewing" at Morgan Wallen Concert?!

Bryant-Denny rocked this spring with its first concert in ages, featuring country superstar Morgan Wallen! A sea of fans went wild, but one highlight stole the show.

Saban's Surprise Appearance

Wallen, known for inviting local legends on stage, chose none other than Nick Saban as his walkout buddy. The legendary coach looked like he was having a blast.

Locker Room Lessons

But here's the kicker: speaking at the Regions Tradition, Saban revealed his favorite part might have been halftime. Yes, you read that right.

The "Ass-Chewing" Heard 'Round Tuscaloosa

Talking to Paul Finebaum, Saban confessed he gave Wallen and his band one of his signature "ass-chewings" during the set break! He said the band, many of whom are former athletes, huddled up in the locker room (his old stomping grounds!). "I told them they needed to get in gear," Saban chuckled. He added it was the first time walking down that tunnel without the pressure of winning or losing.

Saban's been everywhere in T-Town since retiring, and his appearance at the Wallen concert proves he's definitely enjoying the retired life!

Alabama Teen's Cancer Journey: Gratitude in the Face of Adversity

An Alabama mom is teaching her son, who's battling osteosarcoma, some seriously important life lessons as he heads out of state for an experimental cancer treatment. It's not just about the medicine, she says; it's about gratitude.

A Lesson in Appreciation

Brittney Roberts, whose son Will has been fighting osteosarcoma for over a year, shared how her family is using this tough time to highlight the importance of thankfulness, even when things are uncertain. Will's been forced to grow up fast, she noted in a heartfelt social media post.

The Power of a Voice and the Importance of Gratitude

After Will's viral video grabbed national attention and opened doors for a potential treatment, the family intentionally took time to help him process everything. "This week wasn’t just about realizing how powerful his voice is… it was about something bigger because once you ask and receive, gratitude isn’t optional. It’s everything," she wrote.

Responding with Thanks

Roberts emphasized that it's not just about what others do for you, but how you react. "We told him that what people did for you matters, but how you respond to it matters more," she explained. The family encouraged Will to show his appreciation in the same way he asked for help—by using his voice.

Will's Message of Thanks

This lesson took shape in a new video where Will thanked former President Donald Trump for his attention and help in accessing the experimental treatment. He even asked if the treatment could one day be available closer to home in Alabama.

More Than Just Medicine

As the family heads to California for treatment with DeltaRex-G, an experimental gene therapy, Roberts is clear: "Cancer doesn’t stop the teaching of life lessons." Gratitude, respect, and character are still top priorities.

The Roberts family's story is resonating with folks following Will's journey, not only for its urgency but for the inspiring message behind it.

Survey Says...Maybe?

Ever been part of a church survey? Results can be...interesting. I heard from some Baptist folks that congregations often want a "just right" pastor – 35, seminary-trained, basically Goldilocks' preacher.

Then there's the retired minister griping about the young'un who wouldn't wear a suit or use the pulpit! (Spiked hair, tennis shoes...my imagination's running wild.)

The Pulpit Humor Debate

We ran a survey once and got some head-scratching feedback. One person thought pulpit jokes were disrespectful. Another loved 'em! What's a pastor to do?

The Noon Deadline

Then there was the obsession with ending service right at noon. Turns out, our music minister busted out a stopwatch (old school cool!) and proved the sermon wasn't the only time hog.

Time Management Tricks

Speaking of time, my wise pastor friend made guest speakers present after the sermon. Genius! It prioritized God's word and put the pressure on them. Wish I'd thought of that!

Schedule Shenanigans

We even temporarily changed our service time during renovations. Folks liked it so much, we bumped the usual 11 a.m. service to 10:45! Bye-bye, "past noon" complaints.

The 11 a.m. thing probably comes from farming days when it was milking time. Now that most of us aren't milking cows on Sunday, we're more open to change.

Open Communication is Key

Forget the survey! Just talk to your pastor! Most of us are happy to chat about how we can serve better. Let's work together to do the Lord's work!

"Reflections" is a weekly faith column.

The Fed: How Independent Should It Be?

So, President Trump's pick for Federal Reserve chair, Kevin Warsh, is facing confirmation hearings. This comes after some rumblings about firing current Chair Jerome Powell and a Board Member shakeup. Makes you wonder: just how important is the Federal Reserve being independent?

Turns out, money wasn't invented by the government! It popped up naturally, like some super-efficient marketplace phenomenon. Economists call it "spontaneous order." It's all about people acting, not some grand plan.

Money's Humble Beginnings

Money is just a tool for trading stuff. Back in the day, before cash, folks bartered. Imagine trying to find someone who wants your eggs AND has the corn you need. Total headache! Using something like stones as money makes everything way easier. Specialization and teamwork go through the roof!

The Counterfeit Problem

Good money needs to be tough to fake. Real money means someone gave up something valuable to get it. Counterfeiting? That's getting goods without contributing anything.

Government's Money Grab

Governments eventually jumped on the money train to make some cash. They started stamping coins and charging for it. That charge is called "seigniorage," which today is the inflation tax we all know and... tolerate.

Today, our government money isn't tied to gold – it's fiat currency. Central banks, like our very own Federal Reserve (est. 1913), sprung up to manage all this government money.

Liberalism and Money

Taxation predates political liberalism, which emphasizes the government serving the people and implies that even a king is not superior to us commoners. Government's only legit if it serves its citizens.

Some libertarians call taxation theft. It's a good point. You don't pay, armed men show up. Consent is the only thing separating taxation from plain ol' theft. Hence the American Revolution's cry: "Taxation without representation is tyranny!"

When the government prints money, it kinda feels like counterfeiting, right? It's not counterfeiting only if we, the people, consent, meaning the Fed better deliver on economic performance!

The Independence Factor

But how do you get popular consent with a central bank? Every nation's central bank has different rules. Some are heavily shielded from politicians, others? Not so much.

The Fed is relatively independent, according to the experts. It's governed by a mix of folks: Board of Governors, regional bank presidents (elected by member banks), and Governors with long, staggered terms.

Economists love to study how this independence affects things. The verdict? Independence cuts inflation WITHOUT hurting growth or jobs!

Why Independence Matters

Politicians often prioritize getting reelected over serving their constituents. They want the economy to boom to boost their chances, sometimes leading to pumping up the money supply, which leads to inflation. Research even suggests a political monetary cycle exists, even with the Fed's independence!

Independence doesn't give the Fed absolute power, it limits elected officials' ability to mess things up. How to ensure the Fed truly serves "We the People?" That's a question for another day. But handing our elected officials more control over our money? Recipe for inflation!

(Daniel Sutter is the Charles G. Koch Professor of Economics with the Manuel H. Johnson Center for Political Economy at Troy University. The opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the views of Troy University.)