Hometown Hero Returns!

Get ready, ChumCity! Alabama Crimson Tide's very own Ryan Williams, a Mobile native and superstar wide receiver, is back to host his third annual youth football camp!

Gridiron Fun for Everyone

Calling all boys and girls ages 6-16! Join Ryan for a day of football fun at Saraland High School (1115 Industrial Pkwy) on July 13, 2025, from 80 AM to 120 PM CST.

What's in Store?

FlexWork Sports is bringing the heat with this amazing event. Every camper scores a limited-edition Ryan Williams FlexWork Football Camp T-shirt and a digital team photo with Ryan himself!

Level Up Your Game

"We're bringing valuable football knowledge and hands-on instruction to your child in a fun, high-energy, and positive environment," says the team. Expect lectures, skill stations, and friendly competition. Campers will be grouped by age for tailored coaching.

Alabama Politics: Things Are Heating Up!

Is the Israel-Iran conflict about to drag America into the fray? What's the latest?

Senate Race in the Spotlight!

Who's throwing their hat into the ring for the U.S. Senate seat? The suspense is killing us!

Transgender Healthcare Ban in Alabama: SCOTUS Weighs In

What does the Supreme Court's decision mean for Alabama and transgender healthcare access nationwide? A crucial issue.

TikTok Timebomb: Trump's Take

Will Trump keep letting TikTok keep on ticking? What's the deal?

All this and a whole lot more Alabama political drama explained this week.

Mecca Musick is the CEO of 256 Today. Dale Jackson is a Yellowhammer News thought leader and hosts a talk show from 5-9 a.m. weekdays on WVNN.

Remembering George McMillan: An Alabama Political Legend

Alabama lost a true political icon over Easter weekend with the passing of George McMillan at 81 in Birmingham. More than just a politician, George was a natural leader with an infectious personality that drew people in. His recent memorial service felt less like a somber occasion and more like a joyful celebration of a life well-lived.

A Birmingham Send-Off

The celebration of George's life unfolded on April 25, starting at the historic Southside Baptist Church. This grand church has hosted memorials for countless Birmingham leaders, from the titans of industry who built the city to the founders of Liberty National Life Insurance. If you were a mover and shaker in Birmingham, Southside Baptist was the place to be.

From Church to The Club

The service continued with a lively reception at The Club, perched atop Red Mountain. It was a reunion of sorts, bringing together politicos from across the state to remember George.

Jimmy Rane: A Friend and Influencer

Among the attendees was Jimmy Rane, George's friend of 60 years and arguably one of Alabama's most significant figures. As a successful businessman, generous philanthropist, and longtime Chairman of Auburn University's Board of Trustees, Jimmy has shaped the state in countless ways. He was also a close confidant to Senator Richard Shelby for 36 years.

The Auburn Connection

Jimmy Rane's influence extends to current leadership as well, as he remains a close friend and advisor to Governor Kay Ivey. Their friendship, along with George's, blossomed at Auburn University in the mid-1960s. Together, they formed a "triumvirate" of student leaders and founded the Auburn Law Society, a political club that launched their careers.

"Friends and Neighbors" Politics

George McMillan embodied the spirit of "friends and neighbors politics." He had a genuine, affable personality and deep roots in Alabama. His father, a County Farm Agent, traveled the state, allowing George to forge lasting connections everywhere he went. In fact, it was during one of these trips that he first met Jimmy Rane.

Fond Memories and Lasting Legacies

Even in high school, George's charisma was evident. Ann Holman, a Dothan High classmate, fondly remembers George helping her pass Algebra! But beyond his political and civic achievements, George's greatest accomplishment was marrying Ann Roper Dial.

Alabama is indeed one big front porch.

La Famiglia: A Taste of Italy in North Alabama!

Escape to the rolling fields of North Alabama and discover La Famiglia Vineyards and Winery – a family affair bursting with tradition and a passion for crafting something truly special! For owners Tom Fitzgerald and Bev Massa, "La Famiglia" (meaning "the family" in Italian) is more than just a name; it's the heart and soul of their amazing wines.

From Italian Roots to Alabama Soil

Tom and Bev's families hail from Italy, where they farmed the land before crossing the Atlantic. They continued their grape-growing traditions even while working in the coal mines. Now, that legacy lives on in Harvest, Alabama. They moved here in 1997 and created this "artisan, micro-farm winery".

Estate-Grown Goodness

North of Huntsville in Toney, you'll find La Famiglia, where every single grape is grown by the Fitzgerald family themselves! Bev proudly declares Tom's passion and talent as a grower is what makes the winery so great.

Unique Grapes, Delicious Wines

Because North Alabama's climate presents unique challenges, Tom's dedicated years to studying and cultivating hybrid grapes that can thrive here. He even helps other growers in Florida and Tennessee with his expertise! One super cool wine is the Professore Zehnder, named after a local legend who developed hybrid grapes even though he didn't drink wine!

A Wine for Everyone!

La Famiglia boasts nearly 20 different wines, from crisp dry whites to robust reds, and even fruit wines! Don't miss their unique fig wine, crafted from their very own fig trees! Try whites like Doré or Traminett, or dive into the dry reds like Crimson Cabernet and Sasso Rosso (Italian for Redstone, as a nod to the area).

Relax and Enjoy

La Famiglia is open Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. Fridays are available for private events. Bev says it's so peaceful amongst the vines and invites everyone to come relax with a great wine!

Share the Heritage

"We just want to share our heritage," Bev explains. "And we love welcoming people who want to share theirs, too." Sounds like a perfect ChumCity adventure!

Summertime Seafood Sensations!

Nothing beats that Southern seafood craving when the weather's hot, right? We're talking flavor without the heavy feeling. Forget complicated; we've got three easy, breezy coastal recipes that scream summer.

Shrimp & Cucumber Summer Salad

This ain't your grandma's shrimp salad (unless your grandma is super hip). It’s light, refreshing, and ready in minutes!

What You Need:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 2 thinly sliced cucumbers
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt & pepper to taste

Get Your Grub On:

1. Toss shrimp, red onion, cucumbers, and dill in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Gently mix everything.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Chill and enjoy!

Garlic Shrimp Skewers

Fire up the grill! These skewers are bursting with garlicky goodness and are perfect for a backyard bash.

Assemble This:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water!)

Let's Get Cooking:

1. Combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Add shrimp and toss to coat.
3. Marinate for 15 minutes.
4. Skewer those shrimp!
5. Grill over medium-high heat for 3 minutes per side, until slightly blackened.
6. Serve and devour.

Oven-Baked Herb-Lemon Snapper

Elegant, effortless, and full of flavor – this snapper dish is a winner, winner, seafood dinner!

Grab These Goodies:

• 4 snapper fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp chopped parsley
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt & pepper

Time to Bake:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Place snapper on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Brush evenly with the lemon mixture.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Recipes inspired by SoulGrown Alabama

Big News for Mobile: Enterprise Deconstruction Incoming!

Get ready, ChumCity! The legendary Ex-USS Enterprise (CVN 65), America's OG nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, is headed to Mobile for a major makeover – or should we say, a major teardown! The U.S. Department of Defense just dropped a cool $536.7 million on its full dismantling.

Who's Handling This Massive Task?

NorthStar Maritime Dismantlement Services LLC, hailing from Vernon, Vermont, snagged the contract. They'll be in charge of carefully dismantling, recycling, and disposing of this historic behemoth. Think of it as the ultimate recycling project!

Where's the Money Coming From?

This gigantic endeavor is being fueled by Fiscal Year 2025 Navy operations and maintenance funds, totaling over $533 million.

Safety First! Hazardous Materials Management

Of course, with a project of this scale, safety is paramount. That means careful handling and removal of any hazardous materials, including low-level radioactive waste. Don't worry, everything will be properly packaged and shipped off to licensed disposal sites.

A Competitive Process

The contract wasn't just handed out; it was a head-to-head battle! Three companies threw their hats in the ring through the Department of Defense’s Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment. The Naval Sea Systems Command in D.C. is keeping a close eye on everything.

Enterprise: A Legacy of Service

Commissioned way back in 1961 and retired in 2017, the Ex-USS Enterprise served our nation for over half a century. Now, Mobile becomes the epicenter of a major Navy deconstruction project with national implications!

Timeline: When Will It All Be Done?

The project is expected to wrap up by November 2029. Get ready to witness history in the making, ChumCity!

Alabama Gets Serious About Paddle Sports Safety!

Heads up, ChumCity adventurers! The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) is boosting its commitment to safe paddling, and that's great news for everyone hitting the water.

Certified Paddlers to the Rescue!

Thanks to some generous funding, a crew from ADCNR's Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) and State Parks divisions are now certified paddle sports instructors. They learned from the best during an American Canoe Association (ACA) workshop at Lake Guntersville.

More Than Just Fun in the Sun

These newly trained officers will be teaching paddling techniques and safety to other ADCNR staff and the public. This initiative addresses the growing popularity of paddle sports, including kayak fishing, on rivers like the Cahaba, Coosa, and Tallapoosa.

Level Up Your Fishing Game (Safely!)

Bill Freeman emphasized that this opens doors for engaging with a broader audience and promoting outdoor recreation safely. The training highlights the crucial role of safety, ensuring everyone enjoys the sport and returns home safe and sound.

Gear Up and Stay Safe!

Vance Wood stressed the importance of proper gear, especially life jackets (PFDs). He advises against inflatable models for paddling and encourages investing in a quality, comfortable Type III life jacket. He also recommends seeking advice from experienced folks when choosing your kayak and gear.

Don't Be a Statistic: Paddle Smart

With paddling fatalities on the rise nationally, safety is key. Wood encourages kayak anglers to embrace the sport but to be extra cautious. He suggests using brightly colored gear to enhance visibility and always creating a float plan.

Practice Makes Perfect

The training also included valuable lessons on rollovers and re-entry techniques, particularly important for kayak anglers with all their gear. Staying calm and knowing how to right your boat are essential skills.

Expert Advice: It's About More Than Just Paddling

Instructor Andrea White emphasized that paddling involves much more than just launching and going. She highlighted the importance of learning good paddling and rescue techniques, understanding water conditions, and mastering boat control in moving water. This training offers a big win for safety in the paddling community.

Alabama Cities Shine in National Budget Rankings!

Hey ChumCity citizens! Guess what? Mobile and Montgomery are making headlines for their stellar city budget management, according to a fresh report from WalletHub! They're earning some serious national attention, y'all!

WalletHub's Take on City Efficiency

WalletHub dug deep into 148 of the biggest cities in the U.S., comparing how well they deliver public services versus how much they spend per person. The goal? To find the cities that give residents the most bang for their buck!

How They Crunched the Numbers

They looked at "operating efficiency" – the sweet spot between quality and cost. The "Quality of City Services" rating looked at 36 different things, including financial stability, education, health, safety, the economy, and infrastructure. Then, they compared all that to how much each city spends per resident.

Mobile Cracks the Top 25!

Mobile landed in the top 25, snagging 24th place overall! While the service quality was ranked 94th, Mobile killed it in taxpayer money management, ranking 14th in per-capita spending. Talk about being thrifty! They're proving they can deliver on a tight budget.

Montgomery's Fiscal Responsibility Recognized

Montgomery grabbed 58th place, with a fantastic showing in budget management. They ranked 21st in the nation for per-capita spending! Even though the quality of services wasn't as high, their ability to keep things running with a limited budget shows some real fiscal smarts.

A Win for Local Leadership

This good news reflects well on the leaders in both cities, showing their commitment to serving residents efficiently, even with economic and infrastructure hurdles. Way to go, Alabama!

Understanding Double Glazing: Benefits, Types, and Installation | #decoration

Alright ChumCity Citizens, Get Ready to Rumble!

API Announces a Touchdown Speaker!

Hold onto your hats, folks! The Alabama Policy Institute (API) just dropped a bombshell: Heisman Trophy champ and all-around awesome guy Tim Tebow will be the main speaker at their 2025 Annual Dinner!

Forty Years of Freedom!

API's been championing free markets, a lean government, and rock-solid families for almost four decades. This dinner is all about celebrating that mission. They're promising a night "you will NOT want to miss!" – and with Tebow on the mic, we believe 'em!

Get Involved!

Want to sponsor the shindig? Details are coming next week! Individual tickets will be up for grabs after the sponsorship dust settles. Stay tuned, ChumCity! This is gonna be HUGE!