Alabama's Housing Market: Springing Forward?

Good news, ChumCity residents! Alabama's housing market saw a bit of a boost in March as we head into prime buying season. According to the Alabama Association of REALTORS®, home sales jumped up from February.

Sales Numbers Tell the Tale

Specifically, the state recorded 5,438 home sales in March. That’s a sweet 8.2% increase from February! However, it's still a bit behind last year's pace.

What the Experts Say

"Home sales were up month-over-month in March, increasing by 8.2%, but they lag the same period last year by 12.5%,” says Alabama REALTORS® economist Evan Moore. But here's the silver lining: "Median home prices increased, as well, in both monthly and yearly measures, which is good news for homeowners!"

Price Points and Inventory

Speaking of prices, the median home price reached $262,009 in March, a healthy jump from both February and last year. Plus, there are more homes to choose from! Inventory levels are up, meaning buyers have more options.

A Balanced Market?

The state's housing supply is at 5.3 months, edging closer to what economists consider a balanced market.

Interest Rates and Foreclosures

Mortgage rates saw a slight increase, but foreclosure activity also ticked up. However, don't panic! Foreclosures are still below pre-pandemic levels.

The Big Picture

Overall, the Alabama housing market is showing signs of life. Sellers are enjoying strong equity, and buyers have more choices than they've had in a while. While it might not be as booming as previous years, things are looking steady as we head into the warmer months.

Strong Families: The Heart of ChumCity

Here at ChumCity, we know that solid families build vibrant communities. It's just plain common sense, right? When families thrive, kids do better, neighborhoods are safer, and everyone gets a shot at a brighter future.

But let's be real, when we're tackling issues like education, jobs, poverty, and even crime, we often dodge the elephant in the room: unstable families. If we want real solutions, we've GOT to put families first.

That's why a pro-family legislative package is being reintroduced built on bedrock principles we can all agree on: parental rights, accountability, fairness, and, most importantly, what's best for our kids.

The Game Plan: Four Key Bills

• Protecting Parental Rights: Giving parents, not the government, the final say in raising their children.
• Fairness in Child Welfare: Making sure investigations are transparent and families get a fair shake.
• Shared Parenting: Because kids benefit from having both parents actively involved, when it's safe and appropriate.
• Understanding Challenges Faced by Boys and Men: A deep dive into the issues affecting boys and men in our state, from education to family life.

These bills are about supporting families, not replacing them. It's time Alabama made this a real priority.

More Than Just Talk

Being "pro-family" shouldn't just be a soundbite. It's about backing policies that encourage parental involvement, demand accountability, and put kids first, even when it's tough.

This isn't a partisan issue; it affects everyone. So, let's work together to make these policies a reality. The session might be over, but the work continues.

We Need YOU!

Real change needs more than just laws. Community leaders, faith-based groups, and everyday citizens need to step up. Check out these proposals, get involved in the conversation, and be part of the solution.

If we're serious about being pro-family, our policies need to show it. It's time for action.

Governor Ivey Still a Fan Fav!

Alabama's own Governor Kay Ivey is riding high! She's once again snagged a spot as one of America's most liked governors.

Cook Political Report Says...

The latest ratings from the Cook Political Report (dated April) have Ivey sitting pretty with a solid 60% approval rating! Only 34% disapprove. That puts her in the top tier nationwide - 11th overall, and a stellar 5th amongst Republican governors!

Up, Up, and Away!

And get this - her net approval jumped a whopping six points recently! Seems like she's doing something right while other governors are seeing their numbers dip.

Beating the Pack

When it comes to Republican governors, only a handful scored higher: Wyoming's Mark Gordon, Vermont's Phil Scott, North Dakota's Kelly Armstrong, and Georgia's Brian Kemp. Not bad company to keep, eh?

2026 Looking Good

The Cook Political Report is already calling Ivey's 2026 race "Solid Republican." Looks like she's a shoo-in!

Consistent Popularity

This isn't a fluke, folks. Ivey's been consistently popular since taking office back in 2017. A Morning Consult survey in April 2024 even placed her fifth overall in the whole nation, with a 64% approval rating. Keep up the great work, Gov!

Wiregrass Takes Flight: New Drone Innovation Hub Lands Near Fort Rucker!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! Southeast Alabama just got a major boost into the future with the launch of FLIGHTWERX, a brand-spankin' new innovation facility dedicated to drone technology and national defense. Think cutting-edge gizmos and gizmatics, all happening right in our backyard!

What's the Buzz?

FLIGHTWERX, located conveniently near Fort Rucker (aka, the home of Army Aviation), is designed to be a central hub for developing and testing unmanned aerial systems (UAS). It's bringing together military minds, industry leaders, brainy academics, and local community partners – all under one roof!

Big Deal for National Defense

Brig. Gen. Ken Cole emphasized the importance of FLIGHTWERX, saying that unmanned systems are becoming crucial to how the military trains and fights. This facility will give soldiers hands-on experience with the latest technologies, right here in the Wiregrass!

More Than Just Military

But this isn't just about defense; it's a game-changer for the local economy! Leaders are calling it a long-term investment in Southeast Alabama’s future. Melody Lee, executive director of Grow Southeast Alabama, says this is a defining moment for the region, solidifying its position as a national leader in UAS defense and innovation.

Fueling the Future

FLIGHTWERX is expected to have a major economic impact, including creating jobs and driving workforce development in high-tech careers. Daleville Mayor Jayme Stayton sees it as a transformative investment that will strengthen the local economy and connect the community to the future of national defense.

Innovate Alabama Joins the Party

Innovate Alabama is also backing the initiative, seeing it as a key investment in the state’s innovation ecosystem. They believe FLIGHTWERX will position Alabama as a leader in UAS and defense technology.

What's Next?

Phase 1 is complete, including setting up the innovation space, launching STEM and drone-related programs, and forging partnerships. Future plans include expanding research capabilities, snagging federal funding, and developing programs to grow both defense technologies and the workforce! Get ready for some serious innovation, ChumCity!

Alabama Ethics Head Steps Down Amidst Scholarship Fund Scrutiny

Tom Albritton, executive director of the Alabama Ethics Commission, has resigned from a scholarship fund board. This comes as the board reviews allegations of misused funds, including a hefty $135,000 in scholarships reportedly awarded to Albritton’s own children.

SPLC Under Fire: "Extraordinarily Egregious" Conduct Alleged

Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche says a grand jury indictment of the Southern Policy Law Center is no political hit job. The charges are SERIOUS! They accuse the SPLC of dropping a staggering $3 million on informants tied to extremist groups like the KKK between 2014 and 2023, and allegedly helping spark the deadly 2017 Charlottesville rally.

Dems' Dilemma: Is Their Message Getting Lost in Translation?

Are Democrats shooting themselves in the foot again? Critics point to comments by Hasan Piker, a media figure and Dem party surrogate, suggesting Democrats need to fib to win by hiding their true views. He seemed to imply that openly supporting groups like Hamas isn't politically viable right now, stating they aren't "there yet." Ouch!

Roblox Hit With $12.2 Million Settlement Over Child Safety

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall just announced a $12.2 million settlement with Roblox. The state says the gaming platform failed to protect kids online. All the money will go to a statewide safe school initiative, funding school resource officers.

Primary Showdown: Waters Challenges Albritton on Gambling

First-time candidate Terry Waters is taking on three-term Alabama State Sen. Greg Albritton (R-Atmore) in the 2026 Republican primary. Waters is drawing a line in the sand over legal gambling, saying, "this is a hill I could live or die on." He also insists there's no such thing as a clean lottery bill. Albritton says he supports letting Alabamians vote on the issue.

Redistricting Rollercoaster: Virginia's Power Shift and Alabama's Impending Doom?

Virginia voters approved a redistricting referendum, handing temporary power to the Democrat-controlled legislature to redraw congressional maps through 2030. This could flip the state's delegation from 6-5 to a potential 10-1 Dem advantage. Is Alabama next? There are reports SCOTUS is slow walking the dissent, other states like Florida are in the mix too.

Tensions Flare: U.S. and Iran at Loggerheads

The U.S. and Iran are escalating the war of words as peace talks stall. The naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz continues, with Vice President JD Vance involved in negotiations. Meanwhile, Iran is accused of attacking ships in the Strait. Yikes!

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

Alabama's Tax Cuts: A Big Win?

Alabama's Speaker of the House, Nathaniel Ledbetter, is feeling pretty good about the recent tax cuts he helped push through. He says folks in Alabama are going to see some serious savings thanks to the 2026 session.

A Historic $1.5 Billion in Savings

“If I were to say, my most proud, it’s got to be the tax cuts,” Ledbetter exclaimed on "The Rightside." “I mean, never before is Alabamian seen the tune of $1.5 billion cut in taxes.” That's a chunk of change!

Overtime Pay Deduction: More Money in Your Pocket?

One of the key cuts, championed by House Majority Whip James Lomax, allows Alabamians to deduct up to $1,000 of their overtime pay from their individual income taxes each year. Pretty sweet deal, right?

Economic Boom and Future Tax Cuts

Ledbetter believes these tax cuts are fueling Alabama's recent economic surge. He points to the creation of over 100,000 jobs and $6 billion in investments, putting Alabama in the top 10 states for business. He even thinks this growth could pave the way for more tax cuts down the road! The grocery tax might be next in line, he suggests, especially with the state's continued economic momentum.

Alabama's Closed Primary Push: Not Dead Yet!

Despite a setback in the Legislature this year, Alabama Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter isn't giving up on the closed primary bill. The proposed law, which would require party registration to vote in partisan primary elections starting in 2027, stalled in the Senate on the final day of the 2026 session.

Ledbetter's Take

Ledbetter discussed the bill's fate this week, saying the House moved it quickly. He felt they'd made progress, but the Senate held onto it for about three weeks. He expressed concern about last-minute changes potentially derailing the effort.

The SAVE Act

The bill, known as the SAVE Act (HB541), cleared the House and a Senate committee but ran out of time. It would have gone into effect in 2027, leaving the 2026 primaries untouched.

Open Primary Stays For Now

For now, Alabama remains an open primary state. Voters can choose which party's primary to participate in on election day. However, if they vote in a party's primary, they can only participate in that party's runoff.

Looking Ahead

Ledbetter remains optimistic about crafting a bill that can pass in the future. He mentioned looking at other states' legislation, like Oklahoma's, for inspiration. It looks like this saga isn't over just yet!

SPLC Accused of Funding Hate Groups?!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), that self-proclaimed champion against hate, is facing some seriously wild allegations.

Indictment Drops

A federal grand jury in Montgomery just slapped the SPLC with an 11-count indictment. We're talking accusations of funneling over $3 MILLION to Klansmen, neo-Nazis, and other white supremacist leaders! Yes, you read that right.

Wire Fraud and Money Laundering?

The charges include wire fraud, false statements to a bank, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche claims the SPLC is "manufacturing racism to justify its existence." Whoa!

Secret Accounts and Prepaid Cards

Prosecutors allege the SPLC used fake company names like "Fox Photography" and "Rare Books Warehouse" to set up bank accounts. The money allegedly went to prepaid debit cards and then straight to the extremists.

Inside the Allegations

One National Alliance member supposedly raked in over $1 million! Another informant allegedly helped organize transportation to the infamous 2017 "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville, allegedly at the SPLC's direction.

SPLC Responds

The SPLC is, understandably, pushing back HARD. Interim CEO Bryan Fair calls the allegations "false" and claims it's all political retaliation.

Full Circle?

Here's the kicker: the SPLC made its name bankrupting the United Klans of America back in 1987. Now, they're accused of quietly funding them! Talk about a plot twist.

Will They Be Held Accountable?

FBI Director Kash Patel accuses the SPLC of running a "massive fraud operation." A Montgomery jury will ultimately decide the SPLC's fate. Is this the end for the organization?

From Plains to Palms: Former Auburn QB Lands Starting Gig at FSU!

Remember Ashton Daniels? The former Auburn quarterback who hit the transfer portal this offseason is making waves! According to reports, Daniels has snagged the starting quarterback role for the Florida State Seminoles heading into the season.

Fresh Start for Daniels in Tallahassee

Daniels, who transferred to Auburn after a Stanford stint, initially looked like a backup contender. But, things shifted after a coaching change and some struggles. Despite limited playing time (four games, 797 passing yards, three touchdowns), Daniels flashed potential with 280 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a 100+ yard performance in the Iron Bowl.

Pressure's On: Daniels Charged with Reviving FSU

Now, Daniels faces a high-stakes situation at FSU. He's essentially tasked with helping head coach Mike Norvell turn things around after a rough season.

Tigers Still Watching

Even though his time on The Plains didn't pan out, Auburn fans will likely be keeping a close eye on Daniels' journey at Florida State. Good luck to him with his fresh start!

Space Command HQ Closer to Reality!

Big news, ChumCity! The U.S. House Appropriations Committee just gave a HUGE boost to building the permanent headquarters for U.S. Space Command at Redstone Arsenal. A whopping $565 million is earmarked in a key military construction bill to make it happen.

Show Me The Money!

The funding is baked into the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, which just sailed through committee. That's $115 million for design and a massive $450 million for actually BUILDING the facility. BOOM!

Huntsville's Champion Speaks

U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville), who's on the committee, says this is a long-awaited win for North Alabama. "Establishing Space Command here is LONG overdue," he said. "This isn't just about military strategy, it's about recognizing North Alabama's HUGE importance to national defense."

Shovels in the Ground Soon?

Rep. Strong is pumped. "This is a major step toward getting shovels in the ground and building Space Command's permanent home," he stated. "There's no better place than Redstone Arsenal for this vital mission!"

Why This Matters

With global threats changing all the time, space is now a crucial battleground. Space Command is key to stopping attacks, protecting our interests (and our allies!), and keeping our satellites and communication systems safe.

What's Next?

The bill now goes to the full U.S. House for a vote. Fingers crossed! This FY2027 bill is the first of its kind and includes funding for military stuff, veteran healthcare, and other programs.