Headlines and Headaches: ICE Encounters Spark Debate

Recent events have reignited the fiery debate surrounding ICE operations. An Alabama high school construction site saw some workers making a hasty, albeit unconventional, rooftop exit during a raid. Meanwhile, in California, tragedy struck when an individual died attempting to evade ICE.

These incidents are prompting tough questions about the reality of ICE's work and its impact.

Safety First: Resisting Law Enforcement is Risky Business

Resisting law enforcement, no matter the circumstances, puts everyone involved at risk. It's a dangerous game with potentially devastating consequences. Perhaps it's time to focus on arresting those who choose violence over cooperation.

Quality Control: Are We Getting What We Pay For?

Concerns about the quality of construction performed by companies skirting the rules are definitely valid. Are we sacrificing quality and safety in the name of lower costs?

In the Know: Dale Jackson Weighs In

Dale Jackson, the sharp mind behind Yellowhammer News, keeps the conversation going. Catch his talk show weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.

Big News for J.M. Wood Auction Co.!

After an incredible 50+ years serving Alabama and the Southeast, J.M. Wood Auction Co. is embarking on an exciting new adventure! They're joining forces with Ritchie Bros., a global leader in the auction world, while keeping their signature style intact.

A Partnership Built on Shared Values

This isn't just a merger; it's a meeting of minds! Both companies emphasize customer satisfaction and doing things the right way. Ritchie Bros. recognizes J.M. Wood's deep expertise in heavy equipment and their rock-solid reputation.

What's Changing (and What's Not)

Bryant Wood, President of J.M. Wood, assures customers they can expect the same great service and knowledgeable staff. But now, they'll have access to even more resources!

The Secret to J.M. Wood's Success

Russ Wood, Vice President, credits their long-lasting success to honesty, integrity, and putting people first. "You do what you say, you treat people right, and you deliver results. That’s how you build lasting trust," he says.

Why Ritchie Bros.?

The Wood family wanted a partner who shared their values. "Ritchie Bros. was the clear choice," Bryant explains. "They started small, just like we did. They’ve built trust over time and stayed focused on their customers. That felt familiar to us — it felt right."

What to Expect

J.M. Wood will remain headquartered in Montgomery, keep its live auction format, and maintain its current leadership team. So, keep an eye out for upcoming auctions – they're gonna be bigger and better than ever!

A Bright Future Together

Jim Kessler, CEO of RB Global, is equally enthusiastic. He emphasizes the shared commitment to integrity and customer service. "With our combined strengths, we’re raising the standard in this region and beyond!" Get ready for a whole new level of auction excitement!

Saban Return Rumors Squashed!

The gossip mill went wild at SEC Media Days in Atlanta this week, with whispers of Nick Saban potentially un-retiring. Could the legendary coach be eyeing a comeback?

Daughter Says "Nope!"

While many dismissed the notion as pure speculation, the ultimate source has now weighed in: Saban's daughter, Kristen!

Instagram Truth Bomb

Kristen took to Instagram with a tongue-in-cheek video of her dad leaving a tunnel. A follow-up post then set the record straight. "He's not coming back to coaching, hate to break it to you," she declared with a laughing emoji, adding, "You had your time."

Case Closed?

Unless someone has inside information that even Saban's own daughter isn't privy to, it looks like the Crimson Tide faithful will have to content themselves with memories. Don't hold your breath for a return!

Trump & Epstein: What Went Wrong?

Did Trump fumble the Epstein situation? Will he ever budge? The political world is buzzing!

Alabama Showdown: Tuscaloosa vs. the State?

Can Tuscaloosa and Mountain Brook really challenge the Alabama legislature's tax policies? This could get interesting!

Spending Cuts: A Congressional Fairy Tale?

Is Congress serious about slashing spending? Don't hold your breath, but we'll be watching!

Alabama Politics This Week!

Tune in to Alabama Politics This Week for all the juicy details, across TV, radio, and online platforms statewide. Stay informed, Alabama!

Meet the Experts

Mecca Musick, the driving force behind 256 Today.

Dale Jackson, the voice of Yellowhammer News, bringing the heat to WVNN weekdays 5-9 a.m.

Alabama Republicans Cheer Trump's Spending Cuts!

Looks like the GOP delegation from Alabama is all in on President Trump's plan to tighten the purse strings! Every Republican member of the state's U.S. House contingent just voted to send Trump's rescissions package to his desk.

What's in the Package?

The package, which snuck through the House with a tight 216-213 vote, codifies some serious cuts championed by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This move follows a similar vote in the Senate, where Senators Britt and Tuberville also backed the cuts.

What's Getting Chopped?

We're talking about a whopping $9 billion getting slashed from global aid programs and even the Corporation for Public Broadcasting!

Local Reactions

Congressman Dale Strong celebrated the measure, saying it cuts off "biased media handouts." He's been a longtime advocate for defunding NPR, arguing that taxpayer dollars shouldn't fuel "left-wing propaganda." Congressman Barry Moore chimed in, stating the legislation brings much-needed accountability back to government spending. "The days of woke, weaponized and wasteful spending are no more," he declared.

Congressman Gary Palmer also joined the chorus, celebrating the bill's passage while hinting that even more cuts are on the horizon. He emphasized the need to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse, and to hold government agencies accountable.

Tuberville's Gridiron Gambit: Is the Senate Seat History?

Rumor has it, folks – and we're talking Thanksgiving-level early – that Senator Tommy Tuberville might be trading his Washington playbook for a shot at the Alabama Governor's mansion in 2026. With Governor Kay Ivey term-limited after a history-making run (almost Wallace-esque!), the spot's wide open.

Christmas Chatter Confirms Coach's Course

By Christmas, the whispers turned into shouts. Insiders were swearing Coach was dead set on the Governor's race. Some doubters thought Trump's victory would keep him cozy in the Senate, finally on the winning team. But now?

From Senate Sidelines to Center Stage?

Tuberville’s got it made in DC: buddy-buddy with Trump and arguably his most loyal Senate ally. He’s practically sitting pretty, but the lure of leading Alabama seems strong.

Is Tuberville's Path to the Governor's Office a Touchdown?

It's looking like a cakewalk, friends. Unless lightning strikes, Tuberville's practically already measuring the drapes. The competition? They're already waving the white flag.

Rivals Retreat: A Tuberville Takedown Avoided

Word on the street is that Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth (practically campaigning for Governor since forever), and Attorney General Steve Marshall both took a powder. Even Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate admitted he'd stay put if Coach was in the running!

Primed for Victory: The Republican Primary Beckons

With less than a year until the Republican Primary (May 19, 2026), victory in that race is basically a ticket to the Governor's office in Alabama.

The Trump Card: A Dynamic Duo

Senator Tuberville is the most conservative, prominent political figure in the state, a MAJOR plus with our right-leaning voters. Plus, his connection with Trump? Inextricable. They're the Trump/Tuberville team.

Fundraising Fireworks: Cash to Burn

Tuberville's got the Midas touch: raising a record-breaking $3 million in just three days! He'll be swimming in campaign cash by summer's end.

Place Your Bets: Governor Tuberville?

If you’re a betting person, you should bet on Coach Tommy Tuberville swapping his political title from Senator to Governor.

Get Your Chum On: Weekend Happenings!

Red Mountain Theatre Serves Up 'Waitress'

Craving a slice of heartwarming musical theatre? Red Mountain Theatre's production of "Waitress" is here to satisfy! Based on the film, this Tony-nominated show tells the story of Jenna, a pie-making waitress in a small town, dreaming of a better life. Can a baking contest and a charming new doctor offer her the secret ingredient she's been missing? Find out when "Waitress" starts Friday, July 18th!

Batter Up with the Birmingham Barons!

Root, root, root for the home team! The Birmingham Barons are hitting the field against the Knoxville Smokies from July 18-20 and the Montgomery Biscuits from July 22-27, all at Regions Field! Get ready for some baseball action. Remember, Regions Field is cashless.

Legion FC Kicks It at Protective Stadium

Cheer on Birmingham Legion FC as they take on the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC at Protective Stadium on Saturday, July 19th, at 7 p.m.!

Silver & Ceremony from Southern Asia at BMA

Step back in time at the Birmingham Museum of Art with "Silver & Ceremony from Southern Asia, 1830-1930," featuring the Harish K. Patel collection. Explore over 150 pieces of exquisite silver and discover how it shaped cultures during a time of global change. On display until November 30th!

Coca-Cola Amphitheater is Rocking!

Get ready to groove at the Coca-Cola Amphitheater! Here's the lineup:

• July 18, 6:30 p.m.: Whiskey Myers
• July 19, 7 p.m.: Luke Bryan
• July 21, 6:45 p.m.: Toto + Christopher Cross + Men at Work
• July 25, 7:30 p.m.: Parker McCollum
• July 26, 7:30 p.m.: Alabama Shakes

W.C. Handy Music Festival Jams On

Celebrate the blues! The W.C. Handy Music Festival continues through Sunday, July 27th, in The Shoals (Florence, Sheffield, Tuscumbia, and Muscle Shoals). Honor the "Father of the Blues" with multi-day events.

Birmingham Restaurant Week is BACK! Dig In, ChumCity!

Get your forks ready, Birmingham! Restaurant Week is back and tastier than ever! For a limited time, nearly 50 of our favorite local eateries – restaurants, food trucks, bars, and caterers – are offering special menus and prices you can't resist. It's the perfect excuse to explore the best flavors Birmingham has to offer!

From fancy-pants dining to cozy comfort food, Restaurant Week is your passport to the city's diverse culinary scene. Whether you're a born-and-bred local or just passing through, get ready to support the awesome folks who keep Birmingham's food scene thriving.

A Sneak Peek at the Preview Party

The Preview Party at Haven was the place to be, giving us a tempting glimpse of what's to come. Chefs, owners, and food fanatics mingled, sampling delicious bites and sips from a dozen participating spots. The energy was buzzing with the creativity and passion that define Birmingham's food scene. Here are a few standouts:

Sol Y Luna: Latin Flavors That POP!

Sol Y Luna brings a fresh twist to Latin cuisine, serving up artful tapas and handcrafted cocktails. Think flavorful small plates, refreshing margaritas, and a vibe perfect for a night out with friends or a sizzling date. At the Preview Party, Chef Jorge Castro wowed with perfect bites of passion fruit shrimp ceviche on tortillas. Their Restaurant Week specials include fixed-price dinner menus featuring shrimp sliders, a Cuban sandwich, and tres leches lemon cake. Yum!

Magnolia Point: Soul Food with a Bayou Vibe

Magnolia Point is redefining Southern soul food with inventive dishes that bring the flavors of the bayou right to your plate. Housed in a cool 1930s building, it's got those relaxed vibes you crave. Their Preview Party offering, a black-eyed pea hummus with vegetable crudité, is featured on both their lunch and dinner fixed-price menus for Restaurant Week. Plus, Gulf Coast favorites like classic gumbo and fried catfish!

Michael’s Restaurant: A Birmingham Classic

Michael’s Restaurant continues to impress with its steak, seafood, and Southern favorites. Their Restaurant Week menu promises to include their legendary Salmon Rockefeller: pan-seared salmon topped with a spinach cream sauce and chopped bacon. Seriously, what could be better?

Taj India: A Taste of Tradition

Taj India has been serving Birmingham authentic Indian cuisine for almost 30 years! Known for its rich curries and warm hospitality, this Five Points favorite is a must-try. At the Preview Party, their Chicken Tikka Masala was a huge hit – a comforting, flavor-packed dish that showcased the heart of Indian cooking. Find it on their fixed-price Restaurant Week menu, along with tandoori chicken and sag paneer.

Get Out There and Eat!

From beloved institutions to rising stars, Birmingham Restaurant Week is dishing up something for everyone. Rediscover an old favorite or find your new go-to spot. Now is the time to celebrate the creativity and connection that makes Birmingham's culinary scene so special.

More Fun on the Menu!

Don't miss out on other exciting events including a cocktail tasting experience and the BRW Scavenger Hunt, where you can explore the city and win prizes!

Birmingham Restaurant Week is happening now! Go treat yourself! Courtesy of SoulGrown

Bipartisan Effort Aims to Speed Up Defense Exports

A group of lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have teamed up to introduce the Accelerate Revenue for Manufacturing and Sales (ARMS) Act. The goal? To cut through the red tape and get American-made defense gear into the hands of our allies faster!

What's the Deal with the ARMS Act?

Essentially, this bill wants to supercharge the Special Defense Acquisition Fund, or SDAF. This would help speed up the delivery of vital U.S. defense capabilities to countries we partner with.

Why Now?

According to Rep. Aderholt, who's leading the charge on this, the need is more urgent than ever. Demand for American defense products from overseas is HUGE, even bigger than what we're buying for ourselves!

A Win-Win for Everyone?

Rep. Moskowitz sees this as a win-win. It strengthens our allies' defense while boosting manufacturing here at home. Other Representatives, like Zinke, echo the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks that hinder the delivery of crucial defense resources. They say the legislation supports American interests without costing taxpayers a dime.

Who's Backing It?

Big names in the defense world, like the Professional Services Council, National Defense Industrial Association, and Aerospace Industries Association, are all throwing their support behind the ARMS Act. It sounds like this bill has a real shot at making a difference!

Sweet Endings in the Magic City!

Birmingham's summer dessert scene is absolutely KILLING it! Got a hot date? Hanging with your crew? Or just need that sweet fix? The Magic City's got you covered with some seriously standout treats. Our chefs are going wild, remixing those classic Southern flavors and seasonal goodies into desserts that look as good as they taste. Here are four must-try indulgences you HAVE to add to your dessert hit list.

Sticky Mango Rice Pudding at Current Charcoal Grill

This seasonal stunner brings the tropics right to your table! Think mango sorbet, passionfruit zing, and candied cashews for a bright and refreshing end to that perfect date night at Current.

Banana Pudding at Automatic Seafood & Oysters

Pastry Chef Kyle Walker's banana pudding? It's a work of art! Shaped like a whole banana, this masterpiece hides layers of whipped banana ganache, banana slices, toasted Nilla wafers, and vanilla pudding, all tucked under a white chocolate shell. Toasted wafer crumbs and sweet cream seal the deal on this fresh take on a classic.

Martha Ann's Fudge Pie at Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

This rich, family recipe's been a Martin's staple since day one! A creamy, airy twist on the Southern classic, made with the OG Hershey's cocoa powder, Martha Ann's Fudge Pie is the ultimate nostalgic sweet treat.

Churros at Salud Taqueria

Golden, crispy, and dusted in cinnamon sugar, Salud's churros are a crowd-pleaser for a reason. Dunk 'em in sweetened condensed milk, pair 'em with your favorite cocktail or an Espresso Martini, and BAM! Unforgettable night cap.