Feeling Lost? Grab the Wheel!

Ever hopped in one of those driverless cars and felt... adrift? No destination, no control, just bumping along. It's like life sometimes, right? Feeling lost and out of control. But guess what? You can steer yourself back on course.

Five Pillars to Get You Back on Track

When the world feels like a runaway robotaxi, focus on what you can control: the five pillars of happiness.

1. Faith, Family, Friendship & Service

Forget chasing riches and fame. Author Arthur Brooks nails it: lasting happiness comes from strong connections and helping others. These are your anchors when life gets stormy.

2. Spend It Now (Wisely!)

Life's not a dress rehearsal! Don't hoard your experiences for a "someday" that may never arrive. Start creating those unforgettable memories now, before Metamucil becomes your signature cocktail.

3. Hang On 'Til Your 40s

Feeling down? There's hope! Happiness often dips in your younger years but starts climbing again in your 40s. You start appreciating the good stuff and realize life's not so bad after all.

4. Delay, Delay, Delay Gratification

Resist that instant urge! Those who can manage their impulses thrive in all areas of life. It's tough, but so worth it. Don't let impulse control lead you down the wrong path.

5. Embrace the Quiet

Shut out the noise! The constant chatter of news, social media, and everything else drowns out your own thoughts. Seek solitude for reflection, gratitude, and a deeper understanding of yourself. Even Jesus, Moses and Mohammed knew the value of a long walk.

So, ditch the driverless anxiety and take control! Focus on meaningful connections, make memories, hang in there, resist instant gratification, and embrace the quiet. You've got this, ChumCity!

Truth: An Unwelcome Guest in Today's World

We're living in a time where the truth seems to be actively avoided. Leaders, especially in politics, often shy away from it, fearing the changes it might force upon them and the potential consequences for their careers.

The UN: A Case Study in Lost Truth

The United Nations offers a prime example of how truth gets lost in the shuffle of ideologies. Originally founded to foster peace and resolve conflicts peacefully, the UN now struggles to live up to its charter.

Hijacked by Ideologies

Honest debate has been replaced by ideological battles aimed not at finding truth, but at pushing agendas based on, let's be honest, lies and deception. Much of this seems aimed at undermining the United States, its motives, and its interests.

Propaganda and Misrepresentation

Early on, the UN was manipulated to promote a global communist agenda, using the language of freedom to mask their true intentions. The US was consistently painted as imperialistic and elite, a narrative that, despite being false, took root and continues to influence perceptions today.

The World Needs American Benevolence

The world needs the United States, whether it wants to admit it or not. Without our commitment to free trade, our military presence, and our humanitarian efforts, the world would be a much darker place.

A Reluctant Superpower

The US didn't seek global dominance; it stumbled into it. We've accepted our role reluctantly, even with a touch of embarrassment. Our goals are simple: a stable world order where nations can thrive under the rule of law, promoting peace and reciprocal trade.

A Call for the UN to Reclaim Its Purpose

The United Nations stands at a crossroads. It can join the US in creating a stable world, fulfilling its original charter. This means calling out bad actors, curtailing their influence, and sanctioning their economies. Otherwise, it risks becoming an irrelevant forum for complainers, validating failed ideologies.

A New Birth of Purpose

The UN needs a new mission, inspired by freedom and guided by honest brokers, to ensure peace and stability. The United States can help liberate the UN from ideology, promoting realpolitik and the rule of law through fair tribunals that resolve disputes and stabilize free trade.

CHOOSE Act Shines a Light on Alabama Family

Governor Kay Ivey is spotlighting another Alabama family whose life has been positively impacted by the CHOOSE Act, the state's awesome education savings account program.

Meet the Carbonells

Say hello to Francisco and Itzel Carbonell from Birmingham! They're the proud parents of five amazing kids: Maria (8th grade), Anna (5th grade), Amalia (1st grade), Juan (K5), and adorable baby Emma. Four of the children are currently rocking it at St. Rose Academy, and the CHOOSE Act is playing a major role in making their education possible!

Governor Ivey's Take

“For Francisco and Itzel, the CHOOSE Act is a game-changer, allowing their children to thrive in an environment that aligns with their family's values and aspirations,” Ivey shared. “Alabama families deserve to have real choices when it comes to their children's education. The CHOOSE Act empowers families like the Carbonells to find the perfect fit for their children's future – and that's something to celebrate!”

A Perfect Fit at St. Rose Academy

The Carbonell family emphasized that their Catholic faith, commitment to strong morals, and dedication to high-quality education were key factors in choosing St. Rose Academy. After moving to Alabama in 2021, they discovered a school that mirrored their values. When financial challenges threatened their ability to continue at St. Rose, the CHOOSE Act stepped in, ensuring their children could remain enrolled and even planning for their youngest to attend in the future!

A Family's Gratitude

“We had no idea it would be this wonderful – thank God! – we are completely blown away,” exclaimed Francisco Carbonell. “This has been an incredible relief for our family, and now we can invest in new laptops and other resources to support our children's continued growth.”

Each Child's Unique Spark

Each of the Carbonell children brings their own special flair to the family. Maria, the eldest, is passionate about piano and musicals. Anna has a deep love for animals, while Amalia loves to dance and hang out with friends. Juan enjoys adventures with his dad, and Emma, the youngest, is just beginning her journey of discovery.

A Bright Future

“This is the real deal for Alabama families! We now have a clear path forward, especially when we think about our youngest, thanks to the education we can provide with the help of the CHOOSE Act,” added Carbonell.

Expanding Impact

The Carbonells are just one of the many families benefiting from this program. Governor Ivey plans to continue shining a spotlight on how the CHOOSE Act is transforming lives across Alabama!

The CHOOSE Act Deets

The CHOOSE Act provides refundable income tax credits through education savings accounts for eligible K–12 students. Families can use these funds for tuition, fees, and other qualified education expenses at approved education service providers.

Since applications opened in January 2025, over 36,000 students statewide have applied for the program. Funding includes $7,000 per eligible student in a participating school and $2,000 for students in home education programs, with a $4,000 family cap.

According to the Alabama Department of Revenue, which oversees the program, over 23,000 students have been approved this year, representing more than $124 million in education savings accounts.

Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year will open in January 2026.

Alabama Library Showdown: Kids' Books & Gender Ideology

The Alabama Public Library Service (APLS) is stirring up some dust, folks! Board Chairman John Wahl is on a mission to ensure books pushing radical gender ideology are shelved strictly in the adult sections of our state's public libraries.

Wahl's Stance

Wahl, who also helms the Alabama Republican Party, sent a clear message earlier this year: the APLS Board is standing tall with President Trump’s order to block federal funds from being used to promote gender ideology.

Closing the "Loophole"

Speaking on WVNN's "The Yaffee Program," Wahl pointed out that some libraries are allegedly exploiting a "loophole" to keep these books in the children's sections. He explained that while the APLS board previously mandated moving sexually explicit material, some libraries argue that transgender content doesn't automatically fit that description.

Upcoming Changes

But hold on, change is coming! Wahl says they're in the midst of making sure all books promoting radical gender ideology get moved to the adult sections.

"We're going to close that loophole," he declared. "Unelected bureaucrats shouldn't be deciding what your kids are exposed to when it comes to pushing transgender stuff." A public comment period just wrapped up, and a public hearing is on the horizon.

Parents' Rights

Wahl emphasized that this is about giving power back to the parents. "This should be the parents' decision," he asserted, "and we're going to make a rule that says all of it has to be moved to the adult section, so parents decide what their children see."

School Choice Program a Win for Alabama Families?

State Senator Chris Elliott is singing the praises of Alabama's new school choice program, and he's not alone! Recent reports show a dip in public school enrollment, with over 5,000 students exploring alternative options thanks to CHOOSE Act funds.

Why the Shift?

While some worry about the impact on public schools, Elliott sees a silver lining: parents are empowered to find the best fit for their kids. He highlighted that many families are utilizing the program to access specialized support for children with unique learning needs.

Meeting Individual Needs

"They may have dyslexia or something like that," Elliott stated, "and so they’re going to a school that really focuses on that. Isn't that exactly what we should be doing?" He believes this targeted approach is a more efficient and effective way to support students.

Freedom to Choose

Elliott champions the program as an example of increased freedom for Alabama families. "Let’s let them go seek that help where they can and have the freedom. What a novel idea to go do that!" He's eager to see the program expand further by removing income restrictions.

Kids Come First

Addressing concerns about potential teacher reductions, Elliott emphasized that the focus should always be on the children. "The school system doesn't exist for them [teachers]. It exists for the kids." He believes the school choice program provides parents with the flexibility to make the best decisions for their children's education.

Alabama AG Hopes Supreme Court Rethinks Voting Rights Act Provision

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is feeling optimistic that the U.S. Supreme Court might overturn a key part of the Voting Rights Act. This provision currently allows states to use racial gerrymandering when drawing their voting districts.

Louisiana Case Could Reshape Political Maps

The Supreme Court recently heard arguments in Louisiana v. Callais, a major case with the potential to change the rules of the game for drawing political maps. This could directly affect Alabama's ongoing and future redistricting battles.

Marshall's Take on the Case

Marshall, who's also eyeing a U.S. Senate run in 2026, recently chatted about the case on "The Jeff Poor Show" on FM Talk 106.5.

"Yeah, very encouraged," Marshall said about the case. He highlighted the court's decision to specifically address the question of whether courts can order very specific, minority-majority districts, and whether that's constitutional.

Buyer's Remorse?

Marshall suggested some conservative justices might have "buyer's remorse" after a previous ruling against Alabama in a similar case. That ruling led to a court-appointed special master redrawing the district maps in 2023.

Marshall pointed to Justice Kavanaugh's stance on time limits for race-based remedial efforts, drawing parallels to the victories in college admission cases that rejected race-based preferences. He believes the same arguments apply to redistricting.

What This Means for Alabama

Marshall believes a ruling in the Louisiana case could send Alabama's case back for further review. "I will not be surprised at all based on what they ultimately do with Louisiana case, if our case is not sent back down for further consideration," he stated. He added that legal commentators and lawyers following the court seem encouraged about the direction things are heading for Alabama.

Alabama News Bites: What's Buzzing?

School Choice Success Story

Gov. Kay Ivey's highlighting another Alabama family thriving thanks to the CHOOSE Act! They're using it to access a private Christian education, aligning with their values and providing an alternative to what they felt was a morally lacking public school. Another win for Alabama parents!

CAIR-Alabama vs. Tuberville

CAIR-Alabama is calling foul on Senator Tommy Tuberville's proposed Sharia law ban, deeming it unconstitutional and a religious freedom violation. Tuberville's standing his ground, saying it's about preventing extremism.

GOP Chair Calls for Unity

Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl's urging Democrats to join forces with President Trump against crime. He believes public safety should be a bipartisan issue, especially with rising violent crime.

Senate Race Shocker?

Hold on to your hats! A new poll has former Navy SEAL and small business owner Jared Hudson surprisingly leading the pack in Alabama's U.S. Senate race, ahead of big names like Attorney General Steve Marshall and Rep. Barry Moore. Could this be the upset of the year?

Gaza Tensions Flare

Tragedy struck as two IDF soldiers were killed in a ceasefire violation near Gaza, sparking fears of renewed conflict. Israel's retaliated, but claims they're still committed to President Trump's plan.

Britt Blasts Dems

Senator Katie Britt's accusing Democrats of playing political games by catering to the far left. She suggests their fear of losing radical group support is fueling the ongoing government shutdown.

"No Kings" Protests Hit Alabama

Thousands across Alabama joined "No Kings" protests, speaking out against capitalism and bigotry. However, reports are the crowds were predominantly white, older, and generally unenthusiastic, even in areas with diverse populations.

Hear More: Dale Jackson, a Yellowhammer News thought leader, hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Standridge Garners Support from Farmers Federation!

State Rep. David Standridge (R-Hayden) just snagged a major endorsement in his re-election campaign for HD34! The Alabama Farmers Federation is backing him all the way, folks!

Why Farmers Are Rooting for Standridge

Jeff Maze, president of the Blount County Farmers Federation, says it's all about Standridge being there for the community. According to Maze, Standridge's commitment and approachability sealed the deal. "He’s got a proven track record, listens to our needs as farmers, and genuinely cares about our district,” Maze stated.

A Man of Service

Standridge brings a wealth of experience to the table. With a background in law enforcement and public service, he's served as Blount County probate judge and commission chairman. He's also a retired captain from the Blount County Sheriff’s Office and stays involved in local charities.

Shared Values Shine Through

Standridge emphasized the connection between his values and those of the farming community. "We share the same work ethic and conservative values," he said. "It's an honor to have their support as we work together to improve our district.”

Family Man with Deep Roots

David and his wife, Danna, have been married for 43 years! Both grew up on farms and continue the tradition by raising cattle in Blount County. They’re active members of First Baptist Church of Hayden and have three children and five grandkids.

Tide Rolls Over Vols in Third Saturday Showdown!

The Alabama Crimson Tide just flexed their muscle, snagging their fourth straight victory over a ranked opponent! This time, it was a sweet 37-20 beatdown of the Tennessee Volunteers in the legendary Third Saturday in October rivalry in Tuscaloosa.

Bama Blitzes Out of the Gate

Alabama came out firing, forcing a quick three-and-out on Tennessee's opening drive. Then, BOOM! An impressive 11-play, 91-yard drive culminated in a Simpson strike to Isaiah Horton, putting the Tide on top early.

Defense Steps Up Big Time

After trading punts and a Vols touchdown that briefly tied the game, the Alabama defense turned up the heat. A huge safety put the Tide back in front, and Jam Miller punched in a touchdown on the next possession.

Epic Pick-Six Seals the Half

But the play of the night? Absolutely Zabien Brown's incredible 100-yard interception return for a touchdown on the final play of the first half! Sloppy clock management by Tennessee gifted Alabama a 23-7 lead going into the break.

Tide Closes Out the Game

Tennessee fought back hard in the second half, but Alabama's offense answered every challenge. A monster 9-play, 99-yard drive ending in a Rico Scott touchdown put the Tide firmly in control. Daniel Hill's late touchdown iced the game.

Simpson Shines, Defense Dominates

Ty Simpson was solid, throwing for 253 yards and two touchdowns. Ryan Williams had a great day catching 5 passes for 87 yards! The Alabama defense was a force, racking up four sacks and holding a potent Tennessee offense to just 20 points. That’s what we call scary good!

Up Next: South Carolina

The Tide hits the road again next week to face struggling South Carolina before a well-deserved bye week.

Gulf Coast Pirates: Fact or Fiction?

Forget Johnny Depp! Think Alabama! When you hear "pirates," do you picture swashbucklers lurking off the Alabama coast? Probably not, right? But get this: Mobile's about to get a whole lot more interesting!

A Deep Dive into Gulf Coast Piracy

Maritime historian John S. Sledge is diving deep into the topic of pirates on the Alabama Gulf Coast, just a stone's throw from home. Ever wonder if pirates chilled near Bayou La Batre? Or maybe stashed some treasure near South Mobile County?

Jean LaFitte in Alabama?!

Did the legendary Jean LaFitte ever dock his ship in Alabama? And what's the real story behind "Pirates' Cove" in South Baldwin County - is it just a catchy name, or is it rooted in local pirate lore?

Red Beard's & Pirate Tales

Find out all this and more with John Sledge, Tuesday, October 21, at Red Beard’s Outfitters, 51 Kenneth Street, downtown Mobile. Red Beard's isn't just an outdoor shop – it’s a nod to owner Garrett Smith's fiery red beard.

Free Pirate History!

The event is "Pirates of the Gulf Coast," it’s free, and no RSVP is needed, but get there early, space is limited!

The Pirate Expert

John Sledge, a respected author of eight books (including "The Mobile River" and "The Gulf of Mexico: A Maritime History"), and former City of Mobile historian, will be sharing his expertise.

Could There Be A New Book?

Might this talk inspire Sledge to write a whole new book on Alabama's pirate history?