Auburn Engineers Hit the Beach - For Science!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! Auburn University engineers are ditching the textbooks (well, kinda) and heading to the Gulf Coast to build something amazing: the Auburn University Gulf Coast Engineering Research Station!

Digging In at Orange Beach

Golden shovels broke ground Thursday on this new partnership with the city of Orange Beach. This isn't just another beach house - we're talking a serious 21,000-square-foot, two-story research hub with direct Gulf access!

Research with a View

Imagine labs, offices, and meeting rooms all overlooking scenic Terry Cove! This state-of-the-art station will be a permanent base for studying our precious Gulf Coast environments and communities, and collaborating with other brainy institutions.

Auburn's All In

Auburn University President Chris Roberts is stoked, saying the station is a dream come true. He’s excited about the partnerships, discoveries, and the positive impact this will have on our region. Auburn is aiming to create awesome partnerships to enhance the work they do.

Protecting Our Paradise

So, what's on the research agenda? Think protecting water quality, conserving habitats, and making our coastal communities stronger and more sustainable.

Real Solutions for Real Problems

Auburn's Dean of Engineering, Mario Eden, says this isn't just academic fluff. They're aiming to find real solutions to protect our coastal communities, boost the economy, and preserve the natural resources that make Alabama special.

More Than Just Research

The new facility won't just be for lab coats and microscopes. Auburn Engineering plans to get the community involved with outreach and education programs to highlight the region's natural, historical, cultural, and environmental treasures.

Orange Beach is Buzzing

Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon is pumped about this collaboration, highlighting its importance for local kids and the surrounding areas.

Funded for the Future

This awesome project is funded by the Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council, in partnership with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This is just one of many projects funded by Deepwater Horizon settlement money, designed to support both economic development and environmental restoration.

A Bright Future for the Gulf

The research done at this station will help us understand our coastal environment better, so we can protect it and make Alabama an even better place to live, work, and play!

Sweet Grown Alabama Day: Get Fresh!

Mark your calendars! Saturday, July 26th, is Sweet Grown Alabama Day, a celebration of our awesome local farmers and the tastiest fruits, veggies, and goods the state has to offer. Get ready for a farm-fresh feast!

Market Mania!

Farmers markets all over Alabama are throwing special parties! Expect giveaways, delicious samples, sweet discounts, and tons of recipe inspiration on social media, all showcasing the amazing things grown right here. The fun varies by location, so check your local market!

Support Local, Eat Happy

According to Aisling Walding, assistant director of Sweet Grown Alabama, the easiest way to celebrate is by showing some love to Alabama farmers.

How to Celebrate

"From shopping at farmers markets to whipping up tasty meals with Alabama-grown ingredients, picking beautiful local flowers, dining at restaurants that champion local farms, or buying directly from a farm nearby, the possibilities are endless!" says Walding.

Share Your Farm-to-Table Fun!

Even if you're not near a designated Sweet Grown Alabama market, swing by any local farmers market and support those growers! Walding encourages everyone to snap pics of their farm-fresh finds and share them online to show some love for our Alabama farmers!

Participating Markets: Get Your Grub On!

Here are a few markets joining the celebration. Times and locations may vary so check before heading out:

• City of Albertville Farmers Market (Albertville)
• Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market (Foley)
• Market at Pepper Place (Birmingham)
• Monroeville Market Days Farmers Market (Monroeville)
• Northport Farmers Market (Northport)
• The Farmers Market at Killen Park (Killen)
• Tuscaloosa River Market (Tuscaloosa)
• Village of Providence Farmers Market (Huntsville)

Senate Heats Up Over Mexico's Port Grab

Remember that deep-water port in Mexico that got snatched from Vulcan Materials? Well, the U.S. Senate is firing back with a proposal that could seriously sting any country in the Western Hemisphere that tries to pull a similar move on American assets.

Bipartisan Bill Aims to Protect U.S. Businesses Abroad

Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville are teaming up with Sen. Bill Hagerty to reintroduce the Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2025. This bipartisan bill aims to deter future seizures like the one Vulcan experienced in 2022, which the U.S. considers a clear violation of the USMCA trade agreement.

What's in the Bill?

The bill would allow the Department of Homeland Security to block ships that previously used illegally seized ports from entering U.S. waters. It also gives the U.S. Trade Representative more power to investigate and respond to countries that mistreat American businesses or seize their assets.

Alabama Senators Speak Out

Senator Britt minced no words, stating that Mexico's actions "put America's and Alabama's economic and national security at risk." Senator Tuberville echoed this sentiment, calling Mexico's behavior toward Vulcan Materials a "disgrace" to the U.S.-Mexico trade agreement. Both senators are pushing to get the bill passed and ensure American companies are protected.

Vulcan's Long-Standing Dispute with Mexico

Vulcan Materials has been battling with Mexico since 2018, facing harassment, land-use changes, and the shutdown of operations. In 2023, Mexican military forces seized Vulcan's port facility at gunpoint. Alabama's congressional delegation has been advocating for Vulcan, even sending a letter to Mexico's Secretary of Foreign Affairs urging action.

Airbus Soars in Sweet Home Alabama!

Big news from Mobile, ChumCity peeps! Airbus just delivered its 100th A220 aircraft, all made right here at its U.S. Manufacturing Facility. This is a HUGE deal for Alabama's rockin' aviation scene!

A Milestone Made in Mobile

This special plane, headed to Breeze Airways, shows how quickly the A220 production line has taken off in Mobile. Airbus started building A220s here in 2019, opening a dedicated final assembly line the following year. Talk about fast growth!

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

In just five years, the Mobile crew went from breaking ground to delivering 100 planes! Daryl Taylor, from Airbus, gave a shout-out to the dedication and team spirit that made it all happen.

Breeze Gets a Fresh Ride!

Breeze Airways is stoked about their new plane smell, saying the 100th A220 is joining their fleet. They're proud to fly one of the newest birds in the sky!

Alabama's Aerospace Ascent

While A220s are also assembled in Canada, Alabama's plant is becoming super important, especially for airlines in the US. Ellen McNair, from the Alabama Department of Commerce, praised the Airbus team and the strength of Alabama's workforce.

Jobs and Innovation Taking Flight

Airbus' Mobile operations support over 2,000 jobs, making Alabama a key player in aerospace. Besides the A220, they also build A320 Family aircraft here! This milestone proves that Mobile is a vital part of Airbus' U.S. strategy, driving innovation and boosting Alabama's economy. Way to go, Alabama!

Alabama Ag Commissioner Thumbs Up Trump's Trade Tactics!

Alabama's Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate is backing President Trump's efforts to shake up international trade deals, and he thinks it could mean good things for the Yellowhammer State!

A "Reset" for Global Trade

Pate recently chatted with WSFA, calling these tariff talks a much-needed "reset" to fix trade policies that he believes have been hurting both Alabama and the whole country.

Leverage as Top Consumer

"We're the biggest consumers out there, and other nations need us!" Pate pointed out. "It would be tough for them to find a new buyer if we stopped shopping with them." Sounds like a pretty strong negotiating position, right?

Deals Are Being Made

Trump recently announced that countries had until August 1 to cut trade deals with the U.S. or face higher tariffs. And guess what? Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines jumped into action and struck deals!

People-to-People Business

Pate believes these face-to-face negotiations will benefit Alabama's economy. "It's like doing business right here in Montgomery – it's all about building relationships," he said. "These meetings are about connecting with people so you can count on them when you need a hand."

Still Work to Do

While some countries are on board, Canada and Mexico, two of America's biggest trading buddies, haven't reached agreements yet. If they don't make a deal by the August 1 deadline, Canada could face a 35% tariff and Mexico a 30% tariff. Stay tuned!

Alabama GOP Summer Dinner on Hold!

Hold your horses, folks! The Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) is pumping the brakes on its 2025 Summer Dinner, originally planned for August 1st in Montgomery. Why the sudden change? Well, RNC Chairman Michael Whatley, the dinner's big-name speaker, just got a HUGE thumbs-up from President Trump to potentially run for a U.S. Senate seat in North Carolina in 2026.

Whatley's Senate Run Scrambles Plans

ALGOP Chairman John Wahl released a statement, congratulating Whatley on his possible Senate run and announcing the dinner's postponement.

Wahl's Take

"This is a game-changer!" Wahl exclaimed. "Chairman Whatley is a rockstar conservative, and we're totally behind him as he weighs this crucial decision. President Trump's endorsement means Chairman Whatley's schedule is now jam-packed, and we want him to focus on this important choice."

Senate Majority: Top Priority

Wahl also emphasized the importance of maintaining a Republican majority in the U.S. Senate, calling it "critical to the future of our country."

Dinner Deets: Reschedule Incoming!

Whatley previously chaired the North Carolina GOP and served as RNC general counsel before leading the whole RNC shebang.

ALGOP says they're scrambling to reschedule the Summer Dinner and will share updates ASAP. Don't worry, tickets and sponsorships will be refunded or honored at the new date!

A Word from the Chairman

“Thanks for understanding and for your unwavering support!" Wahl added. "Together, we're building a conservative movement both here in Alabama and nationwide!”

Madison County Bust: Fugitive Nabbed in "Summer Heat" Sting!

Hold the phone, ChumCity citizens! A man wanted in Italy for the sickening crime of sexually abusing a minor just got a one-way ticket out of Madison County, thanks to a multi-agency takedown!

Alberto Palla: From Wanted to Deported

Alberto Palla is cooling his heels in custody after being picked up Friday on immigration violations. Seems our friends at the FBI, ALEA, HSI, and local law enforcement teamed up to bring him down.

Fake IDs Found During Search

But wait, there's more! A search of Palla's Madison pad also turned up a stash of bogus IDs. Busted!

"Crushing Violent Crime"

As Special Agent in Charge David Fitzgibbons put it, the FBI is "fully committed to crushing violent crime" and appreciates the partnerships that remove "the worst of the worst" from our neighborhoods. We couldn't agree more!

Part of the "Summer Heat" Initiative

This whole dramatic bust is part of "Summer Heat," a nationwide FBI effort to tackle violent crime during these steamy months. They're working with local and state agencies to serve warrants, grab fugitives, and dismantle violent gangs. Consider yourself warned, criminals!

Senator Slams Governor's Response to Tragic DHR Death

State Senator Chris Elliott (R-Josephine) is firing back at Governor Ivey's handling of the heartbreaking death of a young boy while in the care of Alabama's Department of Human Resources (DHR).

A Tragedy Unfolds

Three-year-old Ketorrius “KJ” Starks Jr. of Bessemer tragically passed away after being left in a sweltering car for nearly five hours. The child was under the supervision of Covenant Services, a DHR contractor, at the time.

Elliott's Outrage

Despite the immense tragedy occurring on DHR's watch, Gov. Ivey has expressed continued confidence in Commissioner Nancy Buckner. Senator Elliott, however, minced no words, calling the Governor's response "inadequate" on FM Talk 106.5's "The Jeff Poor Show."

Accountability Demanded

"This is an absolute tragedy. This is embarrassing on top of that," Elliott stated, highlighting the horrific nature of the situation. He questioned how a child could be removed from their parents' custody due to alleged neglect, only to meet such a devastating fate under the care of the state's contractor.

"The Buck Stops Here"

Elliott stressed the need for greater accountability from state government, including the Governor's office. He argued against passing blame onto contractors, stating that the executive branch, which hires and oversees these agencies, ultimately bears the responsibility.

Legislative Action on the Horizon?

Looking ahead, Senator Elliott suggests that the Legislature may need to step in to prevent similar tragedies. He emphasized the need to adequately fund DHR and questioned whether children might be better off remaining with their families if the state cannot properly support its child welfare system.

Alabama News Roundup - Hot off the Press!

It's time for another dose of Alabama happenings, ChumCity style. Hold on tight, folks!

Boyd Throws His Hat (Again!) in the Ring

Democrat Will Boyd Jr., a former State Rep, is aiming for the top spot! He's announced his bid for Alabama governor in 2026. But let's be real, this guy's got a history of electoral losses. Will this time be different?

Operation Grayskull: A Dark Web Victory

Major props to the Justice Department! Operation Grayskull took down four dark web sites chock-full of child abuse material. Over 120,000 members, millions of files, and at least 18 convictions nationwide, including one right here in Madison, Alabama! Justice is served.

Redistricting Rumble: Texas vs. California

The Lone Star State Republicans are playing hardball with redistricting to snag more House seats. California Democrats are scrambling for a counter-move, but, as The New York Times points out, they are pretty maxed out on gerrymandering already!

Funding Frustrations: Education and Research

Money woes continue! Sen. Katie Britt and her crew are pressing the White House to release those delayed health research funds. On the flip side, the Department of Education has unfrozen $68 million for Alabama that had been held up.

Billboard Blues: Trump and Epstein

Liberal activists are making waves with a billboard questioning Trump's ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The interesting thing is, even they don’t seem to really believe the allegations.

Maxwell's Immunity Deal: Epstein Saga Continues

Ghislaine Maxwell secured limited immunity after meeting with the Department of Justice, sharing info on Jeffrey Epstein's circle. Rep. Dale Strong and other Republicans want the Trump administration to spill more on the Epstein mess.

Trump and EU Make a Deal!

Donald Trump and the EU have struck a deal with $600 billion in EU investments in U.S. energy and defense. Expect some tariffs to stay in place, like those on steel and aluminum.

Heard on WVNN from 5-9 a.m. weekdays

Space Command to Huntsville? Strong Hints Announcement Incoming!

Huntsville could be on the verge of a HUGE win! U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) is feeling pretty confident that former President Donald Trump is gearing up to announce that U.S. Space Command headquarters is heading to the Rocket City.

It's no secret that folks are expecting the newly appointed U.S. Air Force Secretary, Troy Meink, to officially sign off on moving Space Command HQ back to Huntsville.

Strong's Confidence

Strong has been a major champion for this, reassuring everyone that Huntsville is THE place for this facility.

"You don't ever get out in front of the President," Strong said, hinting that Trump has a plan.

A White House Promise?

Remember when then-President Biden decided to keep Space Command HQ in Colorado, even after the Air Force said Redstone Arsenal was the best spot? Well, Strong seems to think things are about to change.

He even mentioned a chat he had with Trump at the White House, where Trump reportedly told Strong the move was coming soon. "'Dale Space Command is coming to Alabama, and it will be soon...we're ready to go vertical with this,'" Trump apparently said.

Coming Soon?

Strong isn't alone in this. U.S. Sens. Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville are also hinting that Trump might make an announcement in the coming weeks.

"I do think that we're within a week or two of this being announced," Strong said. "He's been negotiating with Europe on trade...it's time to announce this."

He added, "And now we're going to do what's right for national security, and I feel very comfortable the President will announce this in the weeks ahead."

Get ready, Huntsville! Things are looking up!