Jobs, Families, and the ChumCity Economy

Want a strong ChumCity where folks can support their families? Oren Cass at American Compass thinks economic policy should focus on creating exactly that – an economy where all workers can thrive. He envisions "meaningful work" as the key.

Jobs: More Than Just Output

As an economist, I get a little twitchy when "jobs" become the sole focus. Sure, they provide income and a sense of accomplishment. But labor is also a vital ingredient in producing, well, everything! We need to use our resources, including labor, wisely. It's not about creating jobs for the sake of jobs; it's about the right jobs. Free enterprise, not government handouts, has always been the engine of real prosperity.

The Costs of Hiring in ChumCity (and Everywhere Else)

Cass raises a valid point: government intervention can muck things up when it comes to jobs. Taxes, regulations, and mandates drive up the cost of hiring. Businesses face taxes on their operations, corporate taxes, minimum wage laws, overtime pay, mandatory insurance, sick leave... the list goes on! These costs get passed onto consumers, impacting our ChumCity wallets.

The Mandate Math

Imagine a mandate adds $3 million to a 100-person company's expenses. That's $30,000 per worker, potentially leading to fewer jobs overall. Are workers better off with these mandated benefits? Not always. A worker might value a $30,000 benefit package at only $20,000 and would much rather have that extra $30,000 in their paycheck!

Unburdening Businesses: A Path to Better Jobs

To make hiring more affordable in ChumCity, we need to ease the tax and mandate burden on businesses. This requires a shift in perception. We need to see businesses as job creators, not just bottomless sources of "free" stuff.

The Political Game

Elected officials often exploit the idea that "rich businesses" can afford taxes and benefits. They understand the ability to adjust to mandates and can exploit it. They get re-elected while workers get lower salaries.

The Downward Spiral

This cycle has been repeating for years, contributing to the offshoring of American jobs. Workers might be happier with higher salaries rather than benefits they rarely use.

Rethinking "Free" Stuff

Some mandates reflect a genuine desire to ensure access to crucial services. But, mandates make workers and companies pay the bill.

Let's Celebrate Job Creators!

I agree with Oren Cass' emphasis on jobs and families. But truly supporting them means reducing the financial burden on businesses. It's time we celebrated the businesses that provide jobs and sustain our ChumCity community, rather than treating them like an endless source of "free" goodies.

Madison Photographer Snaps Up Top Award!

A Madison shutterbug has soared to victory in the Birds category of the 2026 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest! The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources revealed the state's top photographers, and a local talent snagged a coveted first-place prize.

Heron Hero!

Christopher Baker's stunning image of a great blue heron, captured right here in Madison, earned him the top spot in the Birds division. Talk about a picture-perfect moment!

Alabama's Beauty on Display

This annual contest showcases the incredible talent of Alabama's photographers while highlighting the state's breathtaking landscapes, amazing wildlife, and awesome outdoor adventures.

Commissioner's Kudos

"Alabama is a uniquely beautiful state!" exclaimed ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship. He praised the state's diverse photographic opportunities, from its natural landscapes and wildlife to its recreational activities. "The images highlighted in this year’s contest once again showcase the reasons why Alabama is such a great place to live and work."

Statewide Recognition

Winners will receive prize packs, and their winning photographs will be featured in a traveling exhibit throughout 2026.

Other Standout Shots

Other first-place winners captured the beauty of Alabama, including:

• Joe Miller: "Sunset at Cheaha State Park" (Alabama State Parks)
• Matthew Crowell: Lake Guntersville in Scottsboro (Scenic)
• Jordan Whitis: white-tailed buck at Lake Guntersville State Park (Wildlife)
• Drew Senter: Natural Bridge in Winston County (Sweet Home Alabama)

Young Talent Shines

In the Young Photographers division, 17-year-old Fisher Cook completely dominated, taking first, second, and third place with images from McCalla, Dauphin Island, and Birmingham. Wow!

Alabama Teen's Faith Shines Bright

A young Alabamian's powerful message of faith, "God's got this," is now a beacon for thousands cruising down one of the state's most bustling highways.

Giant Cross Honors Teen's Wish

Near Exit 101 on Interstate 65 in Evergreen, a massive 120-foot steel cross now stands tall. This incredible project fulfills the heartfelt final wish of Jackson Conway, a local teen whose unwavering faith sparked the entire endeavor. The Jackson Conway Foundation shares that Jackson, during his courageous battle with cancer, specifically requested the cross, which now graces his family's property alongside the very interstate where he loved spending time outdoors.

A Battle Fought with Faith

Jackson passed away on March 8, 2021, at the age of 17, after a four-year fight with Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer. His journey began in May 2017, when he discovered a knot on his jaw. Further tests revealed multiple spots on his lungs.

Throughout his illness, Jackson's faith remained his anchor. Friends and family remember him constantly sharing a simple yet profound phrase that perfectly encapsulated his spirit: "God's got this."

A Wish for Hope

Instead of requesting a trip or a meeting with a celebrity through Make-A-Wish, Jackson asked for a large, illuminated cross to be built along the interstate in his hometown. He wanted to remind travelers passing through south Alabama of hope and faith.

A Dream Realized

Five years after his passing, that dream has become a breathtaking reality. The towering cross now soars above I-65 in Conecuh County.

Celebration of Life

The cross was first illuminated on Saturday, March 7, during a celebration of life event honoring Jackson. The outdoor gathering featured uplifting gospel and Christian music performances.

A Lasting Legacy

The evening celebrated Jackson's life, faith, and enduring legacy as the cross lit up the night sky for the very first time. For Jackson's family and all who supported him, the towering cross serves as a powerful reminder of the unwavering faith that defined this remarkable young man. His message continues to touch the hearts of travelers along the interstate: God's got this.

Regions Bank Snags Another Workplace Award!

Birmingham's own Regions Bank is celebrating some serious workplace wins! They've just nabbed the 2026 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award (GEWA) for rockin' employee engagement.

Twelfth Year Running!

This is no fluke – it's the twelfth year in a row that Regions has snagged this awesome award. It's all about companies with the most engaged and happy employees, and Regions is killing it!

Happy Employees, Happy Customers

Angela Santone, Regions’ Chief People Officer, says it best: "Our associates are the heart of Regions!" She emphasizes that when employees are engaged, they're better equipped to serve customers and communities. This award shows Regions is dedicated to a supportive and thriving work environment.

Thriving in a Changing World

Gallup points out that even with all the crazy changes happening in workplaces everywhere, Regions is still nailing it when it comes to creating a high-performing culture. They're making sure everyone feels valued and ready to bring their A-game, no matter what!

Engagement = Success

Gallup's research proves that when companies prioritize both employee engagement and performance, they're setting themselves up for long-term success. And with tons of data from millions of employees worldwide, Gallup knows what they're talking about! Engaged employees mean happier customers, better profits, higher productivity, and safer workplaces. Way to go, Regions!

Regions: By the Numbers

Regions Financial Corporation, with around $159 billion in assets, operates approximately 1,250 banking offices and more than 1,750 ATMs throughout the South, Midwest, and Texas. It's a major player, and they're clearly doing things right by their people!

Cullman's Berry Big Bash: Strawberry Festival Returns!

Get ready for a berry sweet weekend! The 87th annual Alabama Strawberry Festival is back in Cullman's Depot Park and Festhalle Farmers Market on April 24th and 25th. This ain't just any festival; it's THE longest running strawberry celebration in the state!

A Sweet Slice of Cullman History

Way back in 1898, strawberries put Cullman on the map. Now, this fest honors that heritage with a celebration packed with flavor and fun.

Fresh Berries and Beyond!

Expect loads of fresh, locally grown strawberries direct from area farmers. Pro-tip: hit up the Festhalle Market early before the best berries disappear! But the strawberry love doesn't stop there. Over 90 artisan and food vendors will be slinging strawberry-themed treats, handcrafted goodies, boutique clothes, and other awesome local products.

Fun for Everyone!

This family-friendly fest is bursting with activities. Think: a dedicated kids' area, a ridiculously cute doggie "pawgeant," a strawberry baking competition, and the adrenaline-pumping Ninja Nation Obstacle Course (16+ and preregistration required).

Jam-Packed Music Lineup

The tunes are gonna be epic! Friday and Saturday evenings are loaded with live entertainment, kicking off around 4 PM. Friday's lineup features a star-studded crew, and Saturday keeps the good times rolling with even more amazing acts.

Don't Miss Senior Day!

Seniors, mark your calendars! Friday from 11 AM to 3 PM is Senior Day, complete with a strawberry jam contest, trivia, live music, and prizes for the best strawberry-themed outfit.

Festival Hours

The strawberry fun runs from 10 AM to 9 PM on Friday and 9 AM to 9 PM on Saturday. Concert gates swing open at 3 PM each day. Get ready to experience Cullman's tradition and community spirit!

Trump Talks College Sports with Saban and Sankey!

Hold up, ChumCity citizens! President Trump just hosted a major pow-wow at the White House to tackle the wild world of college sports. And guess who was there? None other than legendary coach Nick Saban and SEC Commish Greg Sankey!

Coaching Wisdom Meets SEC Smarts

Saban, ever the mentor, shared his insights on developing young athletes both on and off the field. He stressed how things have changed, making it tough to focus on long-term growth when money seems to be the only thing driving decisions.

Sankey, on the other hand, brought the big picture perspective, warning about the potential chaos if the current NIL and transfer portal rules continue unchecked. He basically said we're headed for a free-for-all!

What They Said

Saban questioned the guiding principles of college athletics, lamenting the shift from personal development to chasing the biggest paycheck. He's calling for a system that helps athletes succeed beyond their sport, while still allowing them to benefit financially.

Sankey emphasized the importance of education and community in college sports, arguing that the current free-wheeling transfer situation undermines these values. He's pushing for national standards to bring order to NIL deals, transfers, and athlete well-being. He even mentioned a basketball player on his SIXTH campus!

What's Next?

Trump hinted at a new executive order to try and clean up the mess, but everyone knows that'll likely face legal challenges. The SCORE Act was also mentioned as a potential legislative fix.

Could this be the start of some real change? We can only hope so, ChumCity! The roundtable may just spark some serious action to address the growing issues in college sports. Stay tuned!

Alabama's Textbook Tango: What's Really Being Taught?

Every few years, Alabama gives its public school textbooks a once-over. Usually, it's a quiet affair, but these decisions shape what kids learn for years to come. Right now, social studies textbooks are under the microscope, and what I've seen deserves way more attention.

A Pattern Emerges

It's not just a few isolated issues. There's a clear trend: these materials seem to be shifting focus away from traditional American civics and history, and toward modern ideological narratives. Let's break down some recurring themes:

Activism as the Answer?

Many lessons highlight activism and protests as the primary way to engage civically. While participation is great, constantly framing activism as the go-to solution risks normalizing protest culture before kids even understand the issues.

Identity Politics Take Center Stage

Some lessons showcase identity-based activism, like the Chicano movement, with phrases like "Brown and Proud." While teaching diverse histories is important, it should reinforce the idea that individuals aren't defined by race, and leadership shouldn't be based on identity. Without this context, it can become more about identity-centered activism than a full historical understanding.

Ideological Theory Enters the Chat

Karl Marx and socialism get a mention. These ideas have shaped history, but they're also tied to revolutions and dramatic societal changes. Presenting them without historical critique or acknowledging the economic consequences risks painting socialism and capitalism as equally effective, instead of encouraging critical analysis.

Global Citizens First, Americans Second?

Some lessons encourage viewing students as global citizens before citizens of the United States. Understanding the world is valuable, but American schools should first prepare students to understand their responsibilities within our constitutional system.

Modern Political Debates in the Classroom?

Discussions about voting laws and policies are presented mainly through the lens of voting restrictions. This risks injecting partisan arguments into the classroom instead of teaching the historical development of voting rights.

It's Not About Avoiding Tough Topics

History is full of complex ideas and debates. Students should learn about them, but with proper context and when they're ready to evaluate different perspectives.

Instruction vs. Advocacy

The concern arises when materials encourage students to adopt specific political views or see activism as their primary role. Schools should educate, not indoctrinate.

Eroding Trust

Parents expect schools to teach the basics and how our government works. They don't expect their kids to be introduced to protest culture or partisan debates before they're ready. When education blurs into advocacy, trust crumbles, which is a major problem in education today.

Time to Act

The State Board of Education has a responsibility to ensure materials are academically sound, age-appropriate, and focused on learning, not ideology. Parents deserve confidence that the curriculum reflects these priorities.

What's at Stake?

If materials focus more on promoting ideological activism than on teaching critical thinking about history and civics, they don't belong in Alabama classrooms.

A Simple Principle

Our schools should be places where students learn how to think, not what to think.

Call to Action

The State Board of Education is scheduled to vote on these textbooks soon. They should vote against approving them in their current state. Alabama's students deserve better!

Alabama Senate Race Heats Up!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! The 2026 GOP primary for U.S. Senate is getting spicy! A brand-new statewide poll reveals some major shifts in the race.

Moore Surges Ahead

For months, Attorney General Steve Marshall seemed to have a grip on the lead. But according to a recent Remington Research Group survey (March 2-4, 2026, with a ±3.7% margin of error, involving 692 likely Republican primary voters), Congressman Barry Moore is now in the driver's seat, clocking in at 22%!

The Breakdown:

• Barry Moore: 22%
• Steve Marshall: 16%
• Jared Hudson (former Navy Seal): 12%
• Everyone Else: Dust
• Undecided: A whopping 47%!

Marshall's Slipping Grip?

The numbers show a nail-biter for that second-place spot. While Marshall's still hanging on, Jared Hudson is hot on his heels and could snag a runoff position if things keep trending this way.

Money Talks (Loudly!)

What's behind this shakeup? Money, honey! Campaigns and outside groups are dumping MILLIONS into TV ads across Alabama. A staggering $5 million has already been spent on the Republican primary, and guess who's getting the lion's share?

Who's Spending What?

• A massive 91% ($4.7 million) of all GOP primary advertising supports Barry Moore.
• The super PAC "Defend American Jobs" is leading the charge with a cool $4.5 million for Moore.

Meanwhile, the other campaigns are scraping by:

• Rodney Walker: $349,000
• Marshall: $28,000
• Hudson: $24,000

Birmingham and Mobile Dominate the Airwaves

Where's all this cash flowing? Mostly into Alabama's biggest media markets:

• Birmingham: $1.8 million (35%)
• Mobile: $1.1 million (23%)
• Huntsville: $971K (19%)
• Montgomery: $706K (14%)
• Dothan: $292K (6%)

Trump's Endorsement Still Matters

Despite the ad blitz, nearly half of Republican voters are still undecided. But here's another kicker: 85% of Republican primary voters have a favorable view of President Trump, who, remember, gave Moore his "complete and total endorsement." Will that seal the deal? Stay tuned, ChumCity, because this race is far from over!

Gadsden Gets a HUGE Win: Minth Group's $430 Million Investment!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity! Gadsden is about to get a major economic boost, thanks to global automotive supplier Minth Group Limited! They're dropping a cool $430 million to transform the old Republic Steel/Gulf States Steel site into their largest ever campus. We're talking over 1,300 new jobs!

Revitalizing a Historic Site

This project isn't just about new jobs; it's about breathing new life into a 400-acre site with a rich (but recently quiet) industrial history. The facility will crank out top-notch plastic and aluminum parts for automakers all over the U.S., including Hyundai and Kia.

Alabama: The Auto Innovation Hub

"Alabama is a worldwide leader in automotive innovation," says Alabama Department of Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair. And she's right! The state's skilled workforce is a huge draw for companies like Minth.

Minth's Vision for Gadsden

Taiwan-based Minth, a big player in automotive trim and structural components, is betting big on Gadsden. This new Alabama location will help them better serve their North American customers, especially those diving into electric and advanced vehicles.

From Steel to… Aluminum?

The Gadsden site is set to become Minth's flagship U.S. facility, boasting nearly a million square feet of manufacturing space! They plan to renovate and expand the old steel mill, and those 1,300+ jobs? They're expected to pay an average of over $49,000 a year!

A Community Transformed

This investment is more than just numbers; it's about revitalizing a community that's seen its share of tough times. William Chin, Minth's chief strategy officer, put it best: "From rubble to renewal, from depression to prosperity!"

Gadsden Says "Thank You, Minth!"

Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford is understandably thrilled. "We hit the lottery with Minth!" he exclaimed. He said bringing high-paying jobs back to Gadsden has been a priority, and Minth is delivering in a big way.

A Transformational Moment

David Hooks, head of the Gadsden-Etowah Industrial Development Authority, calls Minth's arrival a "transformational moment" for the community. He also thanked the Casey family for their years of work cleaning up and redeveloping the property. This investment is set to ripple out, boosting the economies of Gadsden, Etowah County, and all of Northeast Alabama. Welcome to ChumCity, Minth!

Alabama Weather Alert!

Hey ChumCity citizens, March madness extends to the weather this week! Buckle up for an active pattern with multiple rounds of storms.

Today & Tonight: Hail Yeah?

Heads up! Parts of Central and West Alabama are under a "slight risk" of severe storms later today and tonight. Most of the state's in a "marginal risk." We're talking potential large hail and gusty winds between 4 PM and 10 PM. Tornado threat is low, but not zero, so keep an eye out! Temps soar into the upper 70s to low 80s beforehand.

Tomorrow: A Breather

Mostly dry skies tomorrow with just a sprinkle here and there. Highs remain warm, between 77 and 84 degrees.

Wednesday/Thursday: Wind Warning!

Wednesday heats up again, topping 80 degrees for many. But, a cold front blasts through Wednesday night with potentially severe thunderstorms. Areas north of a Tuscaloosa to Scottsboro line face a "slight risk," with a "marginal risk" for the rest of Alabama (except the southeast). Damaging straight-line winds are the main concern, but don't rule out a rogue tornado. The worst should be between 6 PM Wednesday and 2 AM Thursday. Expect 1-3 inches of rain.

Thursday brings clearing skies and much cooler air. Highs in the upper 50s for the Tennessee Valley. Friday morning might see frost in North Alabama.

The Weekend: Sunshine Incoming!

Saturday's shaping up to be gorgeous: full sunshine and highs between 75 and 85! Sunday looks mostly dry, but a late-day cold front might bring showers Sunday night.

Next Week: Another Cold Snap

Early next week, expect another shot of chilly air. Frost is likely in North Alabama from Tuesday to Thursday morning.

Weather History

On this date in 1964, an F3 tornado tore through Lauderdale County, destroying homes and businesses. In 2011, an EF-2 tornado hit Theodore in Mobile County, causing business damage and minor injuries.