Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.
The fact that one of the suspects in the mass shooting in Montgomery that killed 2 and injured 12 has already bonded out of jail is outrageous.
Unfortunately, Alabama law does not require attempted murder mass shooters to stay in jail, even though they are clearly both a flight and violence risk.
Both Governor Kay Ivey and Mayor Steven Reed think this is wrong and want everyone to vote to expand Aniah’s Law next May.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
Now that 2 people have been arrested for the mass shooting in Montgomery in early October, it is becoming clear that some questionable decision-making is coming from city hall.
The City of Montgomery promoted free alcohol to events surrounding college football games, which isn’t even necessary and surely is not going to provide cultural enrichment.
Mayor Steven Reed has a crime problem, and pouring free alcohol into the area where crime is doesn’t seem to make much sense.
He needs to get his city under control or ask Governor Kay Ivey to send in the National Guard.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
State Sen. Arthur Orr took aim at Montgomery city leadership and their response to rising crime during a Friday morning segment on WVNN’s “The Dale Jackson Show,” criticizing Mayor Steven Reed over what he called the city’s failure to maintain law and order.
With the recent deadly weekend in Montgomery, Orr responded to questions about Reed’s latest comments on state gun laws and bail reform.
Orr argues Reed’s narrative is a political distraction from deeper problems with the City of Montgomery.
“…This is Steven Reed just grasping at straws, trying to say something, saying anything, just to get people off his back,” Orr (R-Decatur) said.
“I talk to people in Montgomery, residents, be they from the Black community, White community. There is such a displeasure and ready for him to get out of public office with Mayor Reed. It’s getting palpable down there with the frustration with him and his do-nothing administration. People are ticked.”
Orr added that Mayor Steven Reed’s support from his father, Joe Reed, the longtime boss of the Alabama Democratic Party, and his political machine, may not be enough to insulate him from local voter anger.
“People I talk to, I think they’ve had enough and they’re waking up to how they’ve got a very inept and ineffective leader in the mayor’s office,” Orr said. “Mayor Reed is certainly on borrowed time until he finishes out this term.”
Orr also criticized the amount of state taxpayer dollars being used to boost Montgomery’s law enforcement presence around the Capitol.
“It’s a shame that taxpayer money from Huntsville, Mobile, everywhere else is going to do the job that the city of Montgomery ought to be doing,” Orr said.
“We send millions, billions down there every year, and all the jobs that are created, the tax base, everything coming from the taxpayers around the state, and they don’t have the competency to protect their own citizens and have law and order. It’s pathetic.”
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.
7. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) blamed Democrats for the government shutdown’s length, stating Americans, including military members and federal workers, are paying the price because Democrats “don’t know how to work and have a conversation at the same time” and are playing political games for reelection.
6. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn), standing next to a sign reading “BAN SHARIA LAW,” declared on the Senate floor that Islamic extremism threatens America and anyone practicing Sharia law over U.S. law should be deported, while criticizing the left’s silence on issues like women’s abuse and Christian genocide in Nigeria.
5. The Movement Church in Madison County was vandalized with spray-painted messages targeting 1819 News‘ Bryan Dawson, calling him the “Anti Christ” hours before his event there; Pastor Seth Adgate condemned the act as not “Jesus’ way” and emphasized forgiveness, while the Sheriff’s Office investigates it as intimidation and political violence.
4. Following the Montgomery mass shooting that killed 2 and injured 12, U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) pressed Attorney General Pam Bondi on combating inner-city crime, with Bondi affirming the Justice Department’s nonstop efforts under Trump’s sole directive to “make America safe again.”
3. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed finally spoke with Gov. Kay Ivey on Wednesday after previously claiming no call from her post-mass shooting. He described the discussion as positive on crime-fighting and state aid, with Ivey reaffirming support, expanded ALEA patrols, and more joint law enforcement partnerships, which are already in place.
2. Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard announced no criminal charges against those involved in injuring Deshler High School teen August Borden, deeming the incident a “freak, unfortunate accident” stemming from high school banter and a fall on uneven steps despite severe injuries like a fractured skull and orbital. Meanwhile, Borden’s father expressed shock at the decision, accused the probe of lies and corruption, and vowed the case is “far from over.”
1. Hamas accepted President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan to end the two-year Gaza war, including release of all hostages within 72 hours, Israel’s troop withdrawal, increased aid, a prisoner exchange for 250 people life-sentenced in Israeli custody and 1,700 Gazans taken during the recent war, partial amnesty for disarmed Hamas members, and a technocratic governance committee for reconstruction to be signed today. It even prompted praise from Democrat Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) for the historic achievement.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
7. In news that should surprise no one, gambling leads to corruption, and an audit has revealed Greene County Sheriff Jonathan Benison misspent $4.97 million in bingo funds on undocumented payments, including $3.16 million to employees and $2.16 million to consultants and merchants, prompting a repayment order that will likely never be met.
6. Paul Finebaum has apparently been “benched” from the main ESPN network after missing his regular SportsCenter and First Take appearances after discussing a 2026 Alabama Senate run, citing Charlie Kirk’s assassination as a reason; but ESPN denies this and noted his ongoing SEC Network show and spots.
5. President Trump is preparing to deploy 400 Texas National Guard members to Illinois to protect federal buildings and employees following 1,000 immigration-related arrests and clashes. This comes after Trump federalized 300 Illinois Guard members despite objections from Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson.
4. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and other GOP senators, including Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), had their phone records monitored by Jack Smith’s DOJ team in a 2023 Trump-related probe, which Tuberville called an outrageous breach and likened it to the behavior of leaders in North Korea and China.
3. The city of Montgomery has a citizen-run “Crime Watch” Facebook page with 100,000-plus members, run by Shannon Ferrari. On the page, Ferrari slammed Mayor Steven Reed, urging him to lead or resign after his “jump off a bridge” remark to shooters, accusing him of dodging accountability, fudging crime stats, and understaffing police.
2. After the Montgomery shootout that killed two and injured 12, Mayor Steven Reed blamed Alabama’s permitless carry laws, again, ignoring that other Alabama cities do not have this problem. Meanwhile, Gov. Kay Ivey is calling for more law enforcement in the area, saying, “I have asked my ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor to extend the patrol area for our Capitol Troopers to include other key downtown areas.”
1. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) continues to accuse Democrats, led by Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), of prioritizing illegal immigrant healthcare and ObamaCare subsidies over everything else; Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) says Democrats are also seeking millions for foreign programs, including LGBTQ people in the Western Balkans and Uganda, cooking and dance classes for Haitian male prostitutes, Palestinian media organizations, and circumcisions and vasectomies in Zambia.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
Governor Kay Ivey personally tried to reach Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed on Monday morning to offer state assistance after the Saturday night downtown mass shooting that left two dead and 12 wounded — but the mayor did not take the call and has not followed up, Governor Ivey’s office says.
Despite the lack of communication with state authorities, Mayor Reed released a statement abdicating responsibility for the violent event on Monday afternoon, blaming the shooting on Alabama’s “lax” gun laws.
“Governor Ivey attempted to reach Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed Monday morning to offer her support. While he did not take the call, she left a voicemail to ask what she could do to help,” Gina Maiola, Governor Ivey’s top spokesperson said in a statement to Yellowhammer News.
“She also specifically asked Mayor Reed to have the police chief reach out to ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. The Administration has not heard from the mayor or the police chief.
“However, we did see the mayor had time to go to the press to criticize the governor’s efforts to make Montgomery safer following the violent activity Saturday night. The governor believes we need a unified front to fight crime in this city. Right now, Governor Ivey is focused on finding solutions, and she encourages all other leaders to do the same.”
On Monday, Governor Ivey issued state directives to bring Alabama’s capital city back to order.
She is allowing the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to expand its Capitol Patrol presence into key downtown corridors and increase trooper visibility and enforcement around Montgomery in the wake of the shooting.
She also said “all available state assets” are prepared to stabilize the capital city.
City-backed promotions swelled crowds on Saturday for HBCU Classic Weekend, including a pop-up Ferris wheel and “Thrills Zone” with “FREE” rides October 2-4 and the “FREE” beer on Friday on Lower Dexter.
That night around 11:30 p.m., police say an attack in the heart of downtown Montgomery escalated when multiple parties in the crowd drew and fired weapons, killing two and injuring 12 more people.
Seven of the 14 total gunshot victims are under 20. The youngest is 16.
State and federal partners, ALEA, ATF, FBI and U.S. Marshals are already involved.
No arrests have been announced as of Monday.
Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.
At least 2 were killed, and 12 were hurt, in a Montgomery mass shooting.
This is just more street violence in a blue city, where the National Guard could make a difference.
Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed is trying to fend off criticism from Attorney General Steve Marshall, but declaring that things are going great crime-wise is not really all that believable.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
On Monday morning, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announced a tougher state-led posture to restore order in Montgomery after a downtown mass shooting on Saturday night left two dead and a dozen wounded.
Ivey said Alabama has already taken steps, from deploying the Montgomery Area Crime Suppression Unit to passing new state laws to enhance public safety. But the latest shooting proves more forceful measures are needed.
Governor Ivey’s full statement:
“Alabamians lost their lives at the hands of thugs in downtown Montgomery this weekend. First and foremost, we pray for the loved ones of those lives taken from us, as well as those innocent people injured, including some still fighting for their lives.
“With Montgomery Police Department officers a short distance away, shots were exchanged out over a crowded downtown Montgomery Saturday night. This simply should not be happening in our Capital City or anywhere in our state for that matter. Any and all involved must be held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest, and I will do everything in my power to make sure that happens.
“We — the state — have previously and continue to take steps to target the crime in Montgomery, which has ranged from us deploying our MACS Unit to passing new laws. Unfortunately, you can’t fix stupid. It is clear that to have a safe Montgomery, it is going to take more than these steps.
“Over the last day, I have had continued discussions on what more can be done. That discussion continues and a resolution will not happen overnight, but we will be taking a few additional immediate steps.
“Ensuring safe communities is the number one priority for government at all levels — local, state and federal. And unfortunately, I still feel the need for the state to further intervene in Montgomery and to have an even greater role in leading public safety efforts in our Capital City.
“With that said, we are beginning to take additional steps from the state level to deter crime in Montgomery. To start, in addition to our active MACS Unit, I have asked my ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor to extend the patrol area for our Capitol Troopers to include other key downtown areas. I will plan on asking the Legislature to support additional resources to allow our state law enforcement presence to be more effective in downtown Montgomery. We will also continue to discuss how we can work better with Montgomery city and county law enforcement to ensure zero tolerance for crime in Montgomery.
“I am also asking my ABC Administrator Curtis Stewart to review our laws, expectations and requirements regarding entities who are licensed to sell alcohol – specifically those in highly populated and heavily traveled areas, as well as for special events, where the sale and consumption of alcohol is taking place after 5:00 p.m. within the city of Montgomery.
“Let me be clear: All available state assets are being discussed, and ALL options remain on the table. Montgomery is a special place filled with history, great potential and a strong community of people. There is too much at stake here, and as a longtime resident of Montgomery myself, I cannot stand by and allow this to continue.”
Saturday night’s gun battle erupted in the heart of the entertainment district, killing Jeremiah Morris, 17, and Shalanda Williams, 43, and injuring 12 more, five critically, in a packed downtown corridor frequented by families, visitors, and state business travelers.
The crime scene is vectored by hotels, venues, and restaurants that anchor Montgomery’s tourism and conference economy.
Other state leaders are reacting to the shooting. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall also said all options are on the table.
Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.
7. Alabama’s football team is now No. 8 in the college football coaches poll rankings following a decisive 30-14 victory over Vanderbilt, shutting up a trash-talking crotch-grabbing Deigo Pavia and getting vengeance for last year’s 40-35 loss.
6. A 3-year-old girl from Baldwin County was returned to Alabama after being allegedly kidnapped by her mother and taken to Mexico as payment for her illegal immigrant boyfriend’s cartel debts, following her father’s plea and international intervention; the mother has been arrested and is in custody.
5. The Alabama-based Southern Poverty Law Center’s absurd hate group map has been dumped by the FBI. The group has been further embarrassed after the assassination of Charlie Kirk exposed how the group targeted Kirk and Turning Point USA as purveyors of hate, which is obviously not true.
4. Candidate for governor, Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears has released a campaign ad highlighting another call for violence by a Democrat. This time it is AG candidate Jay Jones, who maintains the support of prominent Democrats, after his violent text messages calling for the death of a Republican politician and her children were exposed.
3. The media and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) are whining and complaining that President Donald Trump’s recent actions, and memes, are unhinged and unreasonable. The government shutdown is surely going to enter its second week with the Senate failing to pass a funding bill and the House on recess for the week.
2. Attorney General Steve Marshall, a candidate for U.S. Senate, expressed concern over another mass shooting in downtown Montgomery and slammed the city’s leadership, including Mayor Steven Reed, for refusing to acknowledge a serious crime problem following a mass shooting; but Reed rejected the criticism and suggested gun laws and bail reform could solve these issues.
1. Governor-elect National Championship-winning Coach Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) says this has to stop, “Crime has become too common in Montgomery, and this cannot continue. It’s past time for city leadership to take responsibility and put an end to this,” and voiced support for sending in the National Guard.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
A Saturday night street scene in Montgomery ended in carnage when rival gunmen opened fire into a packed downtown crowd, killing two people and wounding 12 others, according to police.
The shooting erupted around 11:30 p.m. near Bibb & Commerce, steps from tourist landmarks and the city’s nightlife district.
Police called it a “mass shooting event” and said multiple individuals drew weapons after one person was targeted.
Authorities identified the dead as Jeremiah Morris, 17, and Shalanda Williams, 43.
Of the 12 wounded, five were listed in life-threatening condition as of Sunday. The youngest victim is 16. At least two of the victims were armed, police said. No arrests have been announced.
Montgomery Police Chief James Graboys said the gunfire broke out with at least five officers in the immediate area, who ran toward the shots within seconds, he said.
The city announced reward of $50,000 and set up a tip email StarCenter@MontgomeryAL.gov to collect videos from bystanders as investigators comb surveillance footage with help from state and federal partners including ALEA, the U.S. Marshals, FBI and ATF.
Mayor Steven Reed and City Hall had aggressively “activated” downtown for HBCU Classic weekend with attractions and promotions including a temporary Ferris wheel and “Thrills Zone” with free rides along the riverfront and Friday night’s “MGM On Tap Biergarten” on Lower Dexter Avenue, marketed with “FREE” beer in City-promoted posts:
Those draws helped pack the entertainment district on a weekend that also featured the Tuskegee-Morehouse Classic, Alabama State University homecoming, and the Alabama National Fair.
Reed has made these marketing efforts a cornerstone of his administration while bragging about mid-year crime declines. But Saturday’s bloodshed showed once again how at risk the city remains to violent crime.
Even as the mayor points to declines this year, the numbers remain sobering.
Montgomery recorded 61 homicides in 2024. In the first half of 2025, the city still logged 32 homicides, versus 38 in the same period last year.
Meanwhile, state officials are losing patience with Montgomery’s hesitation to aggressively combat crime.
Among the federal and state officials who have issued their calls for prayer and expedient action include U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and Katie Britt (R-Montgomery), Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth, and Attorney General Steve Marshall, and others.
Grayson Everett is the editor in chief of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.
7. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed announced a significant crime reduction in the city; residents expressed their doubts, but crime is obviously down.
6. The DOJ is investigating former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Director James Comey for alleged misconduct in the Trump-Russia probe, while the Trump White House waived executive privilege in a probe involving Biden’s doctor, Kevin O’Connor.
5. President Donald Trump is facing criticism from both parties and the Internet for his administration’s handling of a revived Jeffrey Epstein investigation, with concerns over transparency and motives, but you do not have to care about this.
4. The U.S. Supreme Court lifted an order blocking President Donald Trump’s plan for mass federal layoffs, allowing his administration to proceed with workforce reductions.
3. Alabama meteorologist James Spann once again whined about people being mean to him on social media, as he rightly dismissed misinformation blaming Democrats or Republicans for the Texas floods that killed at least 111 people, emphasizing the natural causes of the disaster.
2. Media darling and police-shooting aficionado, attorney Ben Crump demanded the release of police body cam footage in the fatal shooting of Alabama teen Jabari Peoples, vowing not to let the case be ignored.
1. While the media and their Democrats ramp up their complaints about immigration enforcement, despite public support, Republicans approved a massive budget increase for ICE to expand their deportation efforts, AND President Donald Trump announced there will be no amnesty for illegal immigrants.
Listen here:
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
On Monday, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed held a press conference to inform the public on the progress made in Montgomery during the first half of the year.
According to Mayor Reed, violent crime, nonviolent crime, homicides, non-fatal shootings, and robberies all decreased year-over-year. He shared the following data:
- Violent crime down 28.3%
- Nonviolent crime down 13.3%
- Homicides are down 12.5%
- Non-fatal shootings down 22.5%
- Robberies down 41%
He also explained the steps the city had taken to help reduce crime. “We increased patrols. We restructured staffing to focus on high-need areas,” he said.
He also pointed to technology upgrades like cameras, drones, Starwatch, facial recognition, and stronger communication with faith and grassroots leaders, as well as the graduation of nine new police officers last week. The mayor highlighted the police department’s 60% case closure rate, calling it higher than the national average.
He also expressed frustration over repeat violent offenders being released on bond. “Too often, we’re seeing the same violent repeat offenders out on bond and arrested again and again, just days later,” Reed said. “We really have to draw a line in the sand at what type of community we want to have.”
“We know that real progress isn’t just about data points. It’s about people. It’s about their families. It’s about their neighbors. It’s about their church members and how they feel even when going to work,” Reed concluded.
While he called on residents to stay focused and united in creating a safer Montgomery, many residents on social media were less than convinced.
When WSFA 12 News shared the mayor’s remarks on Facebook, hundreds of comments poured in, many of them questioned the numbers, while others responded with sarcasm, disbelief — and humor:
“He must be smoking what I smell all over town?”
“What a joke! He must be reporting for another city… not Montgomery.”
“When you label every homicide a death investigation then yes maybe it is”
“He also reports that Santa is real and Bigfoot lives in Wynlakes.”
“So, he doesn’t live in Montgomery…”
“Amazing what happens when 911 doesn’t answer the phone.”
“Is he related to the Mayor of Chicago? Sounds exactly like what he’s trying to sell…”
“He must not have been downtown the night of the 4th. It was like Beirut.”
“And I’m a millionaire.”
“AND… Crime in Chicago is down too.”
“Take a trip through Exit 3 around 8 p.m., you’ll know what Montgomery is.”
Whether you believe the mayor’s numbers or the comments section, one thing’s clear: Montgomery residents are interested in the safety of their city — and not shy about saying so.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.
Mayor Steven Reed thinks cities are targeted because of race, not because they are helping illegals.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
7. As dissatisfaction grows over Democrats in general, Auburn and NBA legend Charles Barkley declares he will not consider voting for a Democrat for president unless one of two specific candidates secures the nomination – Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania or Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland.
6. Alabama Secretary of State Wes Allen and former Secretary of State John Merrill engaged in a heated public dispute over the state’s voter rolls – they are trading barbs over dueling election integrity systems and adulterous sodomy.
5. As the state attempts to remake its Pardons and Paroles Board, state senators talk about what needs to be done after feeling misled by the board and a need to restore trust in the system’s decision-making processes.
4. A crisis is developing after a potential Smith Lake resort project has spurred fears of out-of-control annexation. State Senate Pro Tem Garland Gudger (R-Cullman) says this is based on misconceptions of the project and his legislation.
3. U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) is threatening countries that support President Donald Trump as more Democrats face backlash for another taxpayer-funded El Salvador trip to support a deported suspected MS-13 gang member.
2. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed vows to defend residents from President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown which he says targets Black mayors. He’s not seeing how embarrassing the El Salvador debacle is while an MSNBC host warns that people of color could be next after a Maryland illegal immigrant’s deportation.
1. President Donald Trump is meeting with major retailers like Walmart, Home Depot, and Target to discuss tariff concerns as stock markets saw another tumultuous day, gold prices soared, and Forbes warned of a looming 1970s-style inflation crisis that could threaten the U.S. economy.
Listen here:
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.
On Tuesday night, the board of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) issued a statement detailing years worth of concern about Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed’s involvement with the organization. They said Reed has attempted to exert his “unilateral” control over an entity that predates his tenure as mayor.
The spillover comes while the museum is embroiled in controversy over a shocking billboard created by the group For Freedoms — which bears the museum’s logo. After a meeting of their board Tuesday night, MMFA wrote that such an episode could have been preventable if Reed had understood his legal responsibilities.
“Historically the Museum has been under the administration of a joint board, comprised of the City Board, appointed by the Montgomery City Council, and the private MMFA Association Board,” they wrote in a statement.
“On February 4, the two boards met jointly and concluded that the time has come to acknowledge publicly a conflict between them and the Mayor’s Office over the administration of the Museum that has existed for two years now. In February 2023, City officials placed the Director of the Museum on administrative leave, without consulting the boards. Since then, the Mayor’s Office has effectively exerted control over the operation of Museum without meaningful board consultation. Both boards have expressed their opposition to the unilateral assumption of control by the Mayor’s Office, but in an effort to achieve a harmonious resolution, they have refrained from publicly acknowledging this conflict while discussions have continued.”
The one-page statement was approved and released by the joint MMFA board, which includes the city council appointed board, as well as the association board. Meaning, city officials have also spoken out against Reed.
The Reed appointed Jennifer D. Dobbs, the Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of Montgomery, as the MMFA’s interim director without consulting the board, which has left the museum and its organization without a permanent leader for multiple years.
In response to the backlash, last week, MMFA clarified that the decision to erect the billboards was made without the approval of museum leadership or its governing boards.
RELATED: Montgomery mayor condemns race-baiting billboard
Incidentally, Mayor Reed released a statement also saying the billboard should be removed. However, the board suggests it was Reed’s haphazard leadership that led to its display.
“The public private partnership between the City and the MMFA Association for administering the Museum has existed for almost a century. Under this system, we have built an outstanding Museum for a city of our size and attracted enormous public support. We provide world class art for free in a beautiful setting for our community and its visitors. This model of governance is also consistent with standards of the American Alliance of Museums, the body by which we are accredited,” MMFA’s board wrote.
“The billboards and a number of other pressing issues now compel the boards to acknowledge publicly that they have not been permitted to exercise their proper governance responsibilities. The boards believe these issues, and especially the absence of a full-time, permanent Museum Director for two years, illustrate the problems caused by the abandonment of our historical practices of governance.
“The boards remain committed to achieving a harmonious resolution for the continued progress of the Museum. But, given the many pressing issues and the absence of any sign of cooperation by the Mayor’s Office, the boards decided — with sadness and regret-that it was time to acknowledge this conflict over the administration of the museum publicly.”
A request for a response from Mayor Reed was left early Wednesday morning.
7. The Birmingham City School Board, which oversees a school system where 12% of high schoolers are proficient in reading and 5% are proficient in math, has rejected the Alabama Aerospace and Aviation High School’s request to open a campus near A.H. Parker High School was denied, citing objections from the community and board members. The aviation-focused, free public charter school, which is nearing capacity and will soon graduate its first class, had previously faced rejection from Birmingham in 2020 due to a lack of data. Despite the setback, school officials remain determined to move forward, comparing their journey to navigating turbulence in flight and announcing plans to appeal the board’s decision. The school now operates in Bessemer after a previous request was denied.
6. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed condemned a billboard featuring an image from “Bloody Sunday” with the slogan “Make America Great Again,” calling it a misuse of historical imagery that risked deepening political divides. Reed emphasized the need for historical representation to foster unity rather than division and vowed to ensure such incidents do not occur again. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, which had its logo on the billboard, stated the decision to place it was made without leadership’s approval and confirmed its immediate removal, but they could not explain how the billboard got up without approval. Additionally, in Mobile, the the executive director of the Alabama Contemporary Art Center Elizabet Elliott said any spending freeze was a ploy to silence Trump’s critics and any “platform that uplifts voices that are otherwise unheard.”
5. The Army has identified Cpt. Rebecca M. Lobach as the third soldier who died in the midair collision between an Army helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Reagan National Airport that killed 67 people. Her family described her as a dedicated and ambitious officer. Lobach worked in the Joe Biden White House as an aide, which in conjunction with her being a lesbian has led to scrutiny on whether she was fully qualified. While the cause of the crash remains under investigation, the media is suggesting President Donald Trump blamed FAA diversity hiring policies for the tragedy, which he did not do, but there are questions about staffing at the agency over diversity efforts and how that may affect safety.
4. In what was expected, unreported and uncorroborated claims of harm coming to illegal immigrants are starting and in Albertville. Crystal Yvonne claims her “sibling” was confronted by a “white supremacist” at a four-way stop. When asked about telling the cops, Yvonne’s story changed twice, claiming there was no police report, saying, “he didn’t call the police because that guy drove off speeding, he didn’t have time to get his license plate number or anything;” and then saying, “so I was talking with my brother and thank God! He has a dash cam and recorded what happened last night! I had no idea he had one. He went and took that to the police station. Sadly they can not do anything about it since you can’t see the license plate.” Most likely, this event never happened.
3. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has established a task force to support federal immigration enforcement efforts, aligning with President Donald Trump’s aggressive deportation strategy. Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth pledged full cooperation with agencies like ICE and Homeland Security, stating that illegal immigrants “commit a crime the moment they jump our border.” Highlighting Alabama’s historic state motto, “We dare defend our rights,” Ainsworth asserted the state will now also “dare defend our borders” against unlawful immigration.
2. As newly confirmed Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Panama, the country became the first Latin American nation to exit China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with President José Raúl Mulino stating he will not renew the agreement and may seek an early termination. Rubio reiterated that the U.S. would not allow China’s growing influence over the Panama Canal region as part of President Donald Trump reasserting American dominance in the region. This decision is seen as a significant setback for Beijing’s global ambitions and a win for U.S. efforts to counter Chinese expansion in Latin America. Absurdly, talk of war with Panama is being messaged as a worst case scenario in Politico with a headline screeching, “‘There will be many casualties’: Panama girds for war as Rubio opens talks,” as if a war was a possible outcome.
1. President Donald Trump has imposed tariffs on imports from Canada, China, and Mexico, (starting Tuesday) citing economic security and immigration concerns, but acknowledging potential economic pain despite previous promises of lower consumer costs. In retaliation, we now have a trade war, Canada and Mexico have announced their own tariffs, while China is considering legal action through the World Trade Organization. The costs on all countries involved will be real, with economists predict higher inflation, rising energy costs, and a decline in economic growth, with the average American household potentially losing $1,000–$1,200 in purchasing power annually. BUT the U.S. holds great leverage over these countries with Canadian exports to the U.S. accounting for 22% of their GDP and Mexican exports to the U.S. making up 35% of their GDP, while 2% of U.S. imports are tied to the two countries. Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned this could push the two countries (Mexico and Canada) into a recession.
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Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and from 10-11 a.m. on Talk 99.5 and News Radio 1440, with a rebroadcast on WVNN at 10 p.m.
7. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed denounced and ordered the removal of a controversial billboard that featured a Bloody Sunday image with “Make America Great Again” superimposed on it, arguing that such historical moments should unite rather than divide communities. The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, which had unknowingly sponsored the billboard, stated the decision was made without leadership or board approval and took immediate action to remove it. In response to the backlash, the museum and the city’s Cultural Affairs Department pledged to review processes to prevent similar incidents in the future.
6. The Trump administration’s recent e-mail offering federal workers a “deferred resignation” with pay through September has sent shockwaves through the federal workforce, with many interpreting it less as a buyout and more as a coercive ultimatum. Employees are grappling with deep mistrust and confusion, suspecting this could be the last chance to leave with some financial security before potentially more drastic measures are implemented to reduce government size. The move, reminiscent of Elon Musk’s approach at Twitter, has not only instilled panic but also prompted legal and ethical scrutiny, with unions and federal workers questioning its legality and the implications for their careers and the services they provide.
5. Alabama professors, students, and the ACLU are suing to block Senate Bill 129, a law that bans DEI programs and restricts teaching “divisive concepts,” arguing it violates constitutional free speech and due process rights. The plaintiffs, including University of Alabama professor Cassandra Simon, who admits she is breaking the law, contend that it forces educators to self-censor and deprives students of critical academic discussions. The law, passed by the Republican-controlled legislature and signed by Gov. Kay Ivey, has already resulted in the closure of DEI offices and loss of funding for student organizations, echoing similar legal battles in other states like Florida.
4. Alabama State Rep. Ed Oliver (R-Dadeville) called for an investigation into Magic City Acceptance Academy, an LGBTQ+ charter school, accusing it of violating state law by promoting “divisive concepts” such as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. He argued that the school’s approach fosters an ideological agenda rather than preparing students for the real world and insisted that taxpayer dollars should not fund policies the Legislature has explicitly banned. Oliver’s stance aligns with a broader conservative movement, including President Trump’s federal efforts to eliminate DEI initiatives and reinforce traditional gender and historical narratives in education.
3. Protesters in Albertville took to the streets to oppose President Trump’s immigration policies and ICE enforcement, with chants and signs advocating for immigrant rights and denouncing immigration raids. Lt. Gov. Will Ainsworth voiced strong support for Trump’s immigration actions, emphasizing the need to uphold border security nationwide. U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) condemned the anti-ICE protests in Albertville, emphasizing the agency’s role in public safety and supporting President Trump’s immigration crackdown, including the recently signed Laken Riley Act.
2. A fatal mid-air collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet over Washington, D.C., left all 67 passengers dead, with an FAA report revealing abnormal air traffic control staffing at the time. The controller managing helicopters was also overseeing runway traffic, a role typically handled by two people. In fact, the controller was directing helicopters near the airport while he was also instructing planes that were landing and departing from its runways; these two situations collided and became a deadly crash.
1. In the wake of the tragic plane and helicopter collision in Washington a lot of ridiculous unhelpful blame is being tossed around. President Trump has sparked another overblown non-troversy by suggesting that previous diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at the FAA could be partially to blame, even though there have been pushes to lower standards for air traffic controllers. Trump was also baselessly blamed for the crash, with Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager (D-Calif.) blaming his administration for fostering incompetence and CNN’s Bakari Sellers walking back his earlier comments, acknowledging that politics should not play a role in the aftermath of such a tragedy. As the investigation continues, the debate over DEI policies in federal hiring and their potential impact on aviation safety remains a contentious topic.
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Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and from 10-11 a.m. on Talk 99.5 and News Radio 1440, with a rebroadcast on WVNN at 10 p.m.
Mayor Steven Reed has announced that he will be removing the word interim from the titles of two high-ranking City of Montgomery employees. The first, Jerime Reid, will become Montgomery’s new permanent chief of staff, while James “Jim” Graboys will be the permanent Chief of Police for MPD.
“I am excited to remove the interim tag as Jerime transitions to our full-time Chief of Staff,” said Mayor Reed. “Jerime’s extensive leadership has already positively impacted our city in his role as COO, and we are thrilled to see the momentum continue with him as Chief of Staff.”
Reid has previously served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the City of Montgomery. During his time in the position, he was responsible for enhancing efficiency and effectiveness across city departments.
Reid was a member of the Air Force. While serving, he utilized data-driven decision-making to improve resident services. Reed holds extensive leadership experience as a senior executive from his service in the military. While in the Air Force, he was the Director of Personnel at Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base and the Director of Operations for the HQ Air Force Reserve Office Training Corps.
RELATED: Steven Reed names new interim police chief, public safety advisor amid Montgomery crime chaos
Chief Graboys, who was appointed Interim Police Chief on July 15, 2024, brings over 20 years of experience with MPD, as well as leadership roles at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and as Chief of Police at Alabama State University (2012-2019).
“Chief Graboys has shown outstanding leadership during his tenure,” said Reed. “I’m confident he will continue to lead the Montgomery Police Department with integrity, vision, and a steadfast commitment to our community’s safety.”
The search for Montgomery’s permanent police chief was conducted in partnership with Strategic Government Resources (SGR), a Texas-based recruitment firm specializing in local government leadership.
Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
Every accusation a Democrat makes is a confession.
Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN, Talk 99.5, and News Radio 1440 from 10-11 a.m., and on Talk Radio 103.9 FM/730AM WUMP from 3-4 p.m.
7. Former Alabama head football coach Nick Saban, now a fan of the team after retiring, urged fans to support the program, players, and coaches during its challenging season. Following a loss to Tennessee, Saban emphasized that unity and support from the fanbase are crucial for the team’s success in the current transition. When asked if the team is living up to his standard, Saban refrained from judgment, saying the focus should be on the players striving to meet their own standards.
6. For some reason the McDonald’s story continues as the media attempts to turn a brilliant campaign move by former President Donald Trump into a blunder. The restaurant chain (with a net favorability of 39 points) can not confirm Kamala Harris’s claim of having worked there and a branch in Alameda, Calif., where she allegedly worked, instructed employees not to discuss her employment history which is not suspicious at all. Trump’s favorite McDonald’s order during Clemson’s championship visit to the White House was two Big Macs, two Filet-O-Fish, and a chocolate milkshake, a whooping almost 2,000-calorie meal, which may make Trump the most American man ever.
5. U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) criticized the DOJ’s lawsuit against Alabama over purging noncitizens from voter rolls, framing it as a partisan move by Democrats and advocated for former President Donald Trump saying he is the best hope for the country and praised his relentless work ethic. Tuberville also discussed Republicans learning to embrace early voting, noting a record turnout in southern states, and the importance of staying engaged in elections.
4. Pathetically sad Alabama Democrats are going to making appearances with a giant inflatable intra-uterine device (IUD) named “Freeda Womb,” an incredibly forced unclever play on the words “Free The Womb.” State Rep. Marilynn Lands (D-Madison), a one-trick pony obsessed with abortion, and Second Congressional District candidate Shomari Figures will both hold events with this monstrosity proving that they think women ONLY care about abortions but are so stupid they can sell it to normal people under the guise of “reproductive health” if they talk about IVF and IUD.
3. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed, who was recorded saying, “I don’t have to do no work systemically, and I’m going to be fine. And guess what? I will always get 38 to 45% of the white vote. If I can get 30 to 45% of the white vote, I don’t fucking have to damn get the black vote I got this past election. I’ll fucking win,” has now criticized Donald Trump’s remarks about Arnold Palmer’s masculinity, calling them “unbecoming of the office.” Reed suggested that Trump’s comments reflect mental decline and questioned whether the former president should be held to the same standards as other leaders like Vice President Kamala Harris, ignoring his own comments and not being asked about it by Dan Abrams on NewsNation. He emphasized that such remarks do not align with the concerns of everyday Americans and should be scrutinized more seriously by the media.
2. Sen. Katie Britt praised Israel’s successful elimination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, crediting their decision to ignore President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’ opposition to a ground invasion. Britt criticized Harris’ stance, emphasizing that the operation in Rafah, where Sinwar was found, was necessary to prevent further attacks on innocent civilians. She reaffirmed her support for Israel’s right to defend itself and called for the destruction of Hamas to restore peace.
1. Republicans are seeing a surge in early voting, with encouragement from former President Donald Trump, who has shifted his stance and urged supporters to vote before Election Day. This increase in GOP early turnout is particularly strong in swing states like Georgia and North Carolina, where record-breaking numbers are being reported. Early voting totals in Nevada show Republicans leading by about 6,000 ballots, raising concerns for Democrats, as longtime state political reporter Jon Ralston noted this shift could signal potential danger for Vice President Kamala Harris and the Democratic Party.
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Dale Jackson is a thought leader for Yellowhammer News and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN and from 10-11 a.m. on Talk 99.5 and News Radio 1440, with a rebroadcast Talk Radio 103.9 FM/730AM WUMP from 3-4 p.m.
After this weekend’s mass shooting in Birmingham left four dead and 17 wounded, elected officials from the Democratic Party are renewing their calls for the Alabama Legislature to pass a ban on Glock switches. The federally-prohibited device allows a semi-automatic Glock pistol to function as a fully automatic firearm when attached.
In a social media post on Sunday, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin argued the need for stricter state gun laws to fight the rise in Glock switch-related homicides and shootings in the city.
“Glock switches are the number one public safety issue in our city and state,” wrote Woodfin. “Though illegal under federal law, there is no state law that makes Glock switches illegal.”
RELATED: Suspects still at large in Birmingham mass shooting that killed 4, injured 17
“Every Mayor, Police Chief, Sheriff, and District Attorney I know wants glock switches outlawed. Converting a semi-automatic weapon into a fully automatic weapon that discharges all bullets within seconds doesn’t belong on our domestic streets. We really need state legislators to help.”
“Make it a mandatory 10 years to serve if caught with one. If the victim is shot and survives, mandatory 25 years to serve. If the victim dies, automatic life without parole or more.”
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State Rep. Neil Rafferty (D-Birmingham) said residents of the area have “seen enough and heard absolutely enough.”
“Let’s be clear. This isn’t about legal gun ownership. This is about responsibility. This is about working to solve a preventable public health crisis. Just as we have the right to bear arms, we also have the right to be safe in our community,” said Rafferty. “And with rights come responsibilities, which is why we have laws in the first place. For example, it’s why bomb threats or inciting a violent mob aren’t covered under the First Amendment’s guarantee of free speech.”
https://x.com/RepRafferty/status/1837984444155863440
State Rep. Phillip Ensler (D-Montgomery) represents another Alabama city plagued by firearm-related homicides. Already for the 2025 state legislative session, Ensler has pre-filed a bill to make possession of the device a Class C Felony under state law.
https://x.com/EnslerPhillip/status/1837938212683092377
Mayor Steven Reed of Montgomery issued his condolences to those affected by the shooting, reposting Woodfin’s statement demanding a state law imposing a state penalty for the possession of the modification. Earlier this month, Reed signed a municipal ordinance passed by the city council that circumvents state gun laws.
RELATED: Montgomery City Council clashes with state law by passing concealed carry ordinance
https://x.com/stevenlouisreed/status/1837921762605957259
The Alabama House Democratic Caucus released a statement after the shooting calling it “incomprehensible” and “inexcusable” that gun-related homicides are one of the top causes of death for children in the state.
https://x.com/ALHouseDems/status/1838035138996785572
According to ATF data, the number of Glock switches recovered in Alabama recently increased by over 1,200% year over year. Additionally, the state has the fourth-highest rate of gun deaths in the U.S., and the fourth-highest rate of gun homicides. The number of gun-related homicides increased by 45% from 2013 to 2022, compared to a 36% increase nationwide.
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
7. Schools are being hyper vigilant over threats or appearances of threats of violence, because of this, Foley High School was placed on lockdown Thursday morning after a teacher overheard a student mention something that sounded like a weapon during class transitions. Authorities quickly responded, secured the campus, and later confirmed that no gun or fight occurred, and all students were safely dismissed by noon.
6. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall voiced concerns about the rising number of Haitian immigrants in the state, calling it a strain on public resources and safety and highlighting the fight against the Biden-Harris administration, “We have fought, I mean, almost just since day one of the Biden administration, multiple efforts they’ve had around immigration clearly going beyond the bounds of programs that were established by Congress, exceeding the authority that’s been given to them to make decisions that they are not lawfully entitled to do.”
5. Former President Trump promised to eliminate taxes on overtime pay, aiming to increase disposable income for workers and incentivize hard work, Alabama passed a similar law last year. Speaking at a rally in Tucson, Ariz., Trump emphasized that workers like police officers, nurses, and truck drivers deserve more financial support and pledged tax-free overtime hours if re-elected, this is similar to his tax-free tips idea.
4. Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed has accused the Alabama Legislature of “failing” to protect the city’s citizens, particularly after the 2022 law allowing concealed carry without a permit, a law which has not added to Montgomery’s problems at all. Reed also announced a new city ordinance requiring a photo ID to carry a concealed weapon, which will be found to be unenforceable under Alabama law but Reed is more interested in making headlines than dealing with his city’s problems.