Alabama's Wild Week!

Here's the lowdown on what's been shaking in the Yellowhammer State:

Queer Critters at USA?

Word on the street is the University of South Alabama might be ruffling feathers with a "queer animal research lab." They're apparently digging into how queer identities and behaviors play out in animals, all in the name of understanding the human LGBTQ+ experience. Could be a hot topic for Alabama legislators!

Police Power Play?

An Alabama bill's aiming to set minimum police staffing levels statewide. It could give the state more say in how Huntsville and Montgomery PDs operate. Fun fact: Huntsville already meets the proposed standards!

Gangbusters!

An Alabama law targeting gang activity has scored its first conviction! The DA is stoked, saying the law's giving them the muscle they need to crack down on gang violence.

Measles Mayhem Incoming?

Brace yourselves, Alabama! State health officials are warning a measles outbreak could be on the horizon. Blame it on dropping vaccination rates and a nationwide case surge.

PSC Reform DOA?

Looks like the controversial PSC reform bill is toast! Senate President Pro Tem Garlan Gudger is calling for a war against "Soros-funded environmental extremists." Seems like stopping those "liberal extremists" from winning PSC elections is off the table for now.

Tuberville's Tough Talk on Iran

Senator Tommy Tuberville is sounding the alarm on Iran. He thinks military action might be unavoidable if those nuclear deal talks don't pan out. Time to prep for potential conflict, folks!

Senators Slam Dems' SOTU Response

Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville are laying into the Democrats' reaction to Trump's State of the Union. They're calling their protests and guests "pathetic distractions" from Trump's accomplishments. Ouch!

The Source:

Big thanks to Dale Jackson, the brains behind the operation over at Yellowhammer News and WVNN (weekdays 5-9 a.m.).

Big News for District 34!

Coastal 150 and Coastal PAC are backing Doug Harwell in his bid for Alabama State Senate District 34! This hotly contested seat is up for grabs in the 2026 election.

Why District 34 is Open

Senator Jack Williams, who's been representing District 34 since 2018, is aiming for Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, leaving the seat open.

The Race is On!

Harwell's battling it out in the Republican primary on May 19 against former State Senator Rusty Glover. The primary victor will move forward to the general election.

Harwell's Pumped!

"What a way to kick off the day!" exclaimed Harwell. "Coastal 150's endorsement is a real boost. I'm surrounded by folks who are passionate about our Gulf Coast's future, with a shared vision for economic growth and thriving local businesses!"

More from Harwell

"This endorsement is huge," he added, "and I appreciate their faith in me as we champion strong leadership, economic expansion, and tangible outcomes for District 34 and the whole region! Let's keep the ball rolling!"

Who is Coastal 150?

Coastal 150 is a powerful regional group representing businesses and community leaders in Baldwin and Mobile counties. Their Coastal PAC focuses on endorsing candidates who champion economic growth, infrastructure upgrades, and workforce development.

More Endorsements to Come

Coastal PAC's endorsement of Harwell is just the first round! Expect more candidate announcements in the months ahead.

Food Truck Freedom Coming to Alabama?

Get ready, ChumCity! Senator Dan Roberts's bill to streamline food truck inspections just cruised through the Alabama Senate! Now, it's headed to the House for a little more seasoning.

What's the Deal?

Senate Bill 197 aims to make life easier for our beloved mobile food vendors. Right now, trucks often need separate inspections in every city they visit. This bill would create a single, statewide health and fire inspection certificate.

Why This Matters

Imagine: Your favorite taco truck could roll into town without all that extra red tape! They get inspected once, and BAM! Statewide noms.

Bipartisan Love

The Senate showed major love for the bill, passing it 27-0. Looks like everyone's hungry for some food truck freedom!

What's Next?

The bill is now in the House Health Committee. Fingers crossed they'll give it the green light, so we can all enjoy more delicious eats on wheels!

Alabama Scores Big with $115M+ in Defense Contracts!

Hold onto your hats, ChumCity! Alabama just landed some major defense contracts, totaling over $115 million. This reinforces the state's growing reputation as a powerhouse in missile defense engineering and military infrastructure. Looks like we're not just about sweet tea and college football anymore!

Huntsville and Birmingham Companies Lead the Charge

Two awesome Alabama companies, Gray Analytics Inc. from Huntsville and Brasfield & Gorrie LLC out of Birmingham, are leading the charge. The contracts, announced recently, will support crucial missile defense engineering and military construction projects.

Gray Analytics: Missile Defense Mavericks!

Gray Analytics, a Huntsville-based small business specializing in advanced systems engineering, snagged a whopping contract worth up to $59,525,000 from the Missile Defense Agency. They'll be working on digitizing, modeling, and automating systems engineering processes, making missile defense systems even smarter and more secure. Think super-advanced tech stuff!

Brasfield & Gorrie: Building the Future in Auburn

Meanwhile, Brasfield & Gorrie in Birmingham secured a $55,506,189 contract from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to design and build laboratory and office buildings in Auburn. Get ready for some serious construction action! The project includes site utilities and pavement infrastructure, too. Expect to see some cool new buildings popping up in Auburn by 2028.

Alabama: A Defense Powerhouse

These contracts are HUGE for Alabama, solidifying our role in federal defense operations. Huntsville is quickly becoming a major hub for missile defense, while Alabama construction firms are building and maintaining facilities all over the country. Federal defense spending is a major economic engine for the state, creating thousands of jobs and boosting our economy big time.

Supreme Court Slaps Down Trump's Tariffs!

The Supreme Court just threw a wrench in Trump's tariff game, ruling 6-3 against his sweeping tariffs on pretty much everyone. They said he didn't have the authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to do it. Ouch!

What Did the Justices Say?

Chief Justice Roberts, in the majority opinion, basically said Trump was trying to get way too much power out of two little words in the IEEPA, "regulate" and "importation." He argued those words couldn't handle the weight of Trump's tariff plans.

Trump's Not Happy

Trump called the ruling a "disgrace" and said he's "ashamed" of some court members for not doing what he thinks is right for the country. He insists he was being "modest" in his requests and just wanted to be "well-behaved."

Alabama Senators Weigh In

Alabama Senators Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt aren't thrilled with the SCOTUS decision either.

Tuberville is bummed that the court is "handcuffing" the President's ability to slap tariffs on countries he thinks are ripping us off. He thinks the decision flies in the face of what the 77 million Americans who voted for Trump wanted.

Britt went even further, defending Trump's overall trade policy! She argues the tariffs actually work, which is why even the Biden Administration kept some of them in place. She said she'll keep working with Trump to bring manufacturing back home, and is against cheap junk from foreign countries.

What's Next?

Don't worry, folks, Trump says he's got "alternatives" lined up to replace the tariffs the court rejected. He even hinted they could bring in more money! So, stay tuned for the next chapter in the tariff saga!

Measles Watch: Alabama on Alert!

Heads up, ChumCity! Alabama's health officials are gearing up for a possible measles outbreak. State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris says cases are popping up all over the Southeast and the national numbers are climbing. Uh oh!

Preparing for Potential Spread

Dr. Harris wants to make sure our local doctors are ready to spot and handle any potential measles cases. Thankfully, measles hasn't stuck around Alabama for ages, but that doesn't mean we're totally in the clear.

"We're getting the word out to healthcare pros," says Dr. Harris, "so they know what to look for."

Faster Testing = Faster Response

Good news on the testing front! ADPH can now test for measles right here in Alabama. That means faster results than sending samples out of state. Sweet!

Expect the Unexpected

Alabama health officials are bracing for measles to make its way here, thanks to outbreaks nearby and the rising national numbers.

"We're already seeing cases in Charlotte, North Carolina, East Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida," Dr. Harris explained. "We fully expect that we’re going to see it.”

Measles 101

Measles is super contagious! It usually starts with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes before that telltale rash appears. In serious cases, it can cause pneumonia, brain swelling, or even death, especially in kids. Yikes!

Numbers to Know

The CDC reported almost 1,000 measles cases nationwide through mid-February. And in 2025, the US saw 2,280 measles cases, with most tied to outbreaks.

Alabama had just one measles case in 2025 - an unvaccinated child who caught it while traveling. Thankfully, they recovered and didn't spread it around. That was our first confirmed case since 2002!

Key Takeaways

Early detection and vaccinations are key to stopping measles in its tracks if it shows up here in Alabama. Stay informed and stay safe, ChumCity!

ChumCity News Roundup: What's Buzzing?

Tuberville & Britt Slam SCOTUS Tariff Ruling!

Governor-elect (and coaching legend) Tommy Tuberville, along with Senator Katie Britt, are NOT happy with the Supreme Court's smackdown of Trump's tariffs. Tuberville says it ties the President's hands when it comes to protecting American jobs. Britt highlighted how effective Biden thought those tariffs were, as he kept them going. Trump? He's calling the ruling a "disgrace" and is already plotting a comeback with NEW tariffs! Buckle up, folks!

El Mencho Down! Thanks, U.S. Military!

Major news! A joint U.S.-Mexico operation took down CJNG cartel boss El Mencho. The raid uncovered a stash of rocket launchers, proving these cartels are packing serious heat. The State Department's issued a "shelter in place" warning for Americans in several Mexican states. Stay safe out there, Chumsters!

Montgomery Mayhem: Who's in Charge?

AG hopeful Katherine Robertson is calling out Republicans (Barfoot & Ingram) for wanting state intervention in Montgomery's understaffed police force. Dems like Hatcher & Mayor Reed say "NO WAY!" They want local control and argue more cops don't necessarily equal less crime. What's the answer, ChumCity?

Mar-a-Lago Mayhem: Artist Identified

Remember the Mar-a-Lago breach? Turns out the shotgun-wielding guy was Austin Tucker Martin, a 21-year-old artist known for his "bleak watercolors" of golf courses. Some speculate a possible Epstein connection was his motive. He was fatally shot by Secret Service after raising his weapon. Gas can and shotgun box found nearby. Creepy stuff!

ICE Partnerships Expanding in Alabama!

More small-town police departments are teaming up with ICE to enforce immigration laws. Baldwin and Cullman counties are among the latest to sign up, deputizing officers to identify and detain illegal immigrants. This is all part of a bigger push for public safety and removing criminal aliens.

Baby Boxes: Saving Lives in Baldwin County

Good news out of Baldwin County! State Rep. Donna Givens is celebrating the success of baby boxes, which have seen 15 infants surrendered since 2024, with 10 surrenders happening in 2025! No prosecutions! She's praising the program for giving desperate mothers a safe alternative. Let's get more of these statewide!

Trump Congratulates Hockey Team, Patel Celebrates!

President Trump is thrilled about the U.S. men's hockey team's gold medal win at the 2026 Winter Olympics! They took down Canada in overtime! And guess who was celebrating in the locker room? FBI Director Kash Patel! He's defending his presence as part of his official duties, despite the media's grumbling.

(Psst! Want more of this juicy Alabama scoop? Check out Dale Jackson on WVNN weekdays from 5-9 a.m.!)

Hoss Mack Throws His Weight Behind Chris Elliott!

Baldwin County's Senate District 32 race just got a whole lot more interesting! Former Sheriff Huey “Hoss” Mack is officially backing State Sen. Chris Elliott (R‑Josephine) for re-election. It's a big deal as the May 19 primary heats up!

Mack's Strong Endorsement

Sheriff Hoss Mack isn’t holding back! In a new video, he urged voters to send Elliott back to Montgomery. "We sent Chris to the Capitol with a mission to stand tall for Baldwin County," Mack declared.

"Delivered Every Time!"

Mack emphasized Elliott’s success in securing funding and representing Baldwin County's needs. "He’s delivered every time by bringing home the funding to keep our roads, schools, and communities moving forward," Mack explained. He also highlighted Elliott's conservative stance, saying, "Chris is a true conservative who’s tough as nails because he knows you can’t change Montgomery with please and thank you.”

A "Real MAGA Warrior"

Mack wrapped up his endorsement with a bang, calling Elliott a "real MAGA warrior for Baldwin County." Remember that when you head to the polls!

The Stakes Are High

Elliott, who was first elected in 2018, is facing a challenge from Mike Vandenheuvel in the Republican primary. District 32 includes Fairhope, Daphne, Foley, Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and more. The winner will go on to the general election in November.

Hoosiers Lock Down Coaching King Cignetti!

Indiana Hoosiers fans, rejoice! Head coach Curt Cignetti, fresh off leading the team to its FIRST EVER national title in a dominating performance, is sticking around! The former Nick Saban protege has inked a contract extension that will keep him in Bloomington through 2033.

Cignetti's Massive Payday

And how much will it cost to keep this coaching mastermind? According to reports, Cignetti's new deal will average a whopping $13.2 million per year! That puts him in elite company, alongside the likes of Georgia's Kirby Smart and LSU's Lane Kiffin as the only coaches with deals exceeding $13 million annually.

Hoosiers Show Their Commitment

While Cignetti's previous contract was already set to bump him up to nearly $12 million, a "Good Faith Market Review clause" was triggered by that epic CFP semifinal run, allowing for a total renegotiation.

The fact that Indiana, traditionally an also-ran, stepped up to pay Cignetti like one of the elite coaches in the nation speaks volumes. It's clear the Hoosiers are serious about contending, and they've secured the leader to make it happen! Look out, college football! Indiana is here to STAY.

Wienermobile Rolls Back to Tuscaloosa!

Roll Tide! The legendary Oscar Mayer Wienermobile cruised back into Tuscaloosa last week, bringing a smile (and maybe a craving for hot dogs!) to everyone's face. This time, the 27-foot icon was driven by none other than a University of Alabama alum!

Meet "Grill 'Em Up Gabby"!

Gabby Fulkerson, a.k.a. "Grill 'Em Up Gabby," is the Hotdogger behind the wheel. Imagine, this thing is as long as 60 hot dogs end-to-end! She brought the glorious vehicle right to the student center.

A Dream Job After Graduation

After graduating from Alabama last May, Gabby's been living the dream, traveling the country as a spokeswoman for Oscar Mayer. But let's be real, returning to Tuscaloosa had to be a highlight.

Adding a Little Roll Tide to the Wienermobile

In the middle of her year-long Hotdogger adventure, Gabby's got one of the most unique gigs a UA grad could ask for! As she continues to represent the hotdog giant nationwide, she's definitely bringing that Crimson Tide spirit wherever she goes.