Vandy's Rising Star: Pavia's Bold Prediction!

For years, the Vanderbilt Commodores have been… well, let's just say they haven't exactly been lighting up the college football world. But hold on, ChumCity! Things are changing.

A Season of Upsets

Last season, Vandy shocked everyone, snagging their first winning record in over a decade. And who was leading the charge? None other than electrifying quarterback Diego Pavia! Fresh off a stunning upset of Auburn with New Mexico State the previous year, Pavia worked his magic again, taking down both Alabama and Auburn with Vanderbilt!

Taking Aim at Tennessee

But Pavia's not stopping there. This dude is aiming for the stars, and he's got his sights set on the Commodores' biggest rival: Tennessee.

"Vanderbilt is Gonna Run Tennessee!"

In a recent interview with "Bussin' With The Boys," Pavia dropped a bombshell. "Vanderbilt is gonna run Tennessee after this year!" he declared, throwing major shade at the Volunteers. He believes Vandy is about to become the "new staple of college football" because, let's face it, everyone wants to be in Nashville!

Pavia also highlighted Vanderbilt's increasing NIL funding, confident that a successful season will bring in top-tier recruits. He even revealed he turned down millions in offers from other SEC programs to stay put at Vandy.

Will Pavia's bold predictions come true? Can he lead the Commodores to victory over Tennessee and create a new era of dominance? Only time will tell, ChumCity! But one thing's for sure: Vandy football is finally exciting again!

Tubs vs. Newsom: Alabama Crime Rate in the Crosshairs!

Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and California Governor Gavin Newsom are throwing punches over... you guessed it, crime! The beef started when Newsom seemingly couldn't justify California's reaction to some recent ICE-related disturbances in Los Angeles. Ouch!

Newsom's a Broken Record?

Newsom keeps hammering on this same talking point, but critics are saying he's conveniently overlooking the real issue: the Democrat leadership in charge of many California counties and cities. Are they the root of the problem? The jury's still out!

Dale Jackson Weighs In

Need more Alabama insight? Catch Dale Jackson, the sharp mind behind Yellowhammer News, weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN. He's sure to have an opinion!

Britt Champions Child Care Tax Credits in Senate GOP Package!

Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) is scoring wins for Alabama families! Her tireless advocacy for pro-family policies has paid off, with key child care tax credit reforms making their way into the Senate GOP's big finance package.

What's the Deal?

This package, dubbed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" by Republicans, tackles tax and economic policy. Senator Britt's focus? Updating the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC), the Dependent Care Assistance Plan (D-CAP), and the Employer Provided Tax Credit (45F) to lighten the load for working parents.

Britt's Passion for Parents

"I've been shouting from the rooftops about the need for updated child care tax credits," Britt declared. "It's about helping families thrive and boosting our economy! 81% of parents are begging Congress to make child care more affordable and accessible!"

A Win for Families and the Economy

Britt sees this as a huge step in the right direction. "Families and small businesses know child care isn't a political game – it's a real issue for parents," she emphasized. By modernizing these tax credits, the legislation aims to give middle-class families a much-needed break, get more folks into the workforce, and juice up the economy.

The Party of Parents?

Britt sums it up: "Republicans are the party of parents, the party of families, and the party of hardworking Americans! Let's show it by tackling child care costs head-on!"

Tide Lands a Big Fish: Four-Star QB Thomalla Flips to Bama!

Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide just scored a major recruiting touchdown! They've snagged a potential future star quarterback who could be leading the offense in a few years.

Thomalla Chooses Tuscaloosa

Jett Thomalla, a four-star quarterback previously committed to Iowa State, has flipped his commitment to the Crimson Tide, according to reports. This is huge news for Bama fans!

What to Expect

The 6'4", 210-pound QB from Omaha, Nebraska, is a top-15 quarterback in the 2026 class. He's also the first quarterback and seventh overall commitment for Alabama in this recruiting cycle. He's considered the top player in Nebraska for his class.

QB Room Heating Up

While Bama might still pursue another QB, the pressure's off a bit knowing Keelon Russell is already on his way. Plus, Russell could hold the starting job down for quite some time. Thomalla’s got the talent to make waves, and his profile will definitely rise now that he's committed to the Crimson Tide. DeBoer and his crew are on a roll, and this likely won't be the last recruiting win we see from Alabama in the near future!

HUGE Win for Child Protection!

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is pumpin' fists after the U.S. Supreme Court backed Tennessee's ban on certain "gender-affirming" procedures for minors. Booyah!

The SCOTUS, in a 6-3 decision (United States v. Skrmetti), gave the thumbs up to Tennessee’s law, which protects kids by restricting access to irreversible sex-change procedures. The Biden Admin and ACLU threw a hissy fit, claiming it violated the Equal Protection Clause, but the Court wasn't buying it.

Tennessee AG Chimes In

Tennessee's own Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti declared the decision "recognizes that the Constitution lets us fulfill society’s highest calling – protecting our kids." Word.

What This Means for Alabama

This ruling basically gives the green light for Alabama and other states to enforce similar laws! Remember, Alabama already has a law that says doctors can't give kids puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, or surgeries for gender transitioning. Good riddance!

Marshall's Thoughts

"Until recently, giving these procedures to children was unthinkable," Marshall said. "It was also crazy to think that judges should decide if kids with gender issues should be allowed to take hormones that risk changing their bodies forever and rendering them sterile."

Tuberville's Take

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) is also doing a victory dance! He called the ruling a "BIG WIN for common sense and our children." We agree!

Alabama's Fight

Back in 2022, Alabama passed its law, and BAM! The Biden Administration, along with activist groups like the ACLU and SPLC, immediately sued. But guess what? Alabama dug deep and uncovered some seriously shady stuff about the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) and their "Standards of Care."

Scandal Exposed!

The documents Marshall's team uncovered revealed a major scandal. Shockingly, the groups suing Alabama dropped their claims!

Marshall's Final Word

"I applaud the Supreme Court for recognizing that state governments have the right to regulate medicine, especially when medical groups are pushing radical gender ideology over actual science and patient welfare," Marshall said. Let's keep protecting our kids!

Alabama GOP Shakeup? Wahl's Lt. Gov Run Sparks Bylaw Battle!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity citizens! The Alabama Republican Party is buzzing tonight over a proposed bylaw change that could let Chairman John Wahl run for Lt. Governor in 2026 without stepping down from his current role.

The Scoop

Word on the street (via an email obtained by Yellowhammer News) is that Shelby County GOP Chair Joan Reynolds is hustling for signatures to amend the party's rules. This proposed tweak would allow Wahl (or any future chair/secretary) to take a "leave of absence" while campaigning for statewide or congressional office, with the Vice Chair stepping in temporarily.

Why the Fuss?

Some folks are reportedly not thrilled with this idea. There's talk about the need for stability at the top, especially with the 2026 primary looming. It seems some Republicans believe the Chairman should be fully focused on party matters.

Wahl's Take

Wahl himself has acknowledged the petition. While he hasn't officially declared his Lt. Governor intentions, he also hasn't exactly ruled them out. He says while the lawyers say its fine, he'd planned to resign if he decided to run, but this petition offers a different way. He added that it's up to the State Executive Committee to vote.

More Questions Than Answers?

It seems like this whole thing has opened a can of worms. Questions are being raised about who takes over permanently if Wahl resigns, whether a special election would be needed, and whether a leave of absence is even allowed under the existing rules.

Stay Tuned!

This is a developing story, folks, and we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for updates. Will the bylaws be changed? Will Wahl throw his hat in the ring for Lt. Governor? Only time will tell!

Vestavia Hills Superintendent Honored!

Big news from the world of Alabama education! Dr. Todd Freeman, the top dog at Vestavia Hills City Schools, has been crowned Alabama’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year by the State Superintendents of Alabama (SSA)!

Well-Deserved Recognition

Vestavia Hills City Schools couldn't contain their excitement, showering Dr. Freeman with congratulations on social media. The district proudly announced that Dr. Freeman was selected as a finalist for the prestigious award by the SSA. Congrats Dr. Freeman!

A Leader in Action

Since taking the reins as superintendent in March 2018, Dr. Freeman has spearheaded some serious changes in Vestavia Hills. We're talking a brand-new strategic plan, reaccreditation, and a district-wide makeover that included opening THREE new campuses: Vestavia Hills Elementary Dolly Ridge, the revamped Louis Pizitz Middle School, and the Vestavia Hills High School Freshman Campus.

From Sylacauga to Success

Before landing in Vestavia Hills, Dr. Freeman made waves at Sylacauga City Schools. He successfully developed a strategic plan and secured funding for vital capital improvements. He also boosted programs in the fine arts, career training, and early learning.

A Lifetime of Dedication

Dr. Freeman brings over 30 years of experience to the table. From teaching social studies to leading operations and serving as a high school principal in Auburn, he’s seen it all! A Clay County native, Dr. Freeman is an alumni of Jacksonville State and Auburn Universities, and he holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Valdosta State University.

Big News for Alabama Families: CHOOSE Act Approves Thousands!

Get this, folks! Nearly 24,000 Alabama students are set to benefit from state-funded education savings accounts (ESAs) thanks to the CHOOSE Act, according to the Alabama Department of Revenue. That's a whole lot of kids getting a boost!

What's the CHOOSE Act All About?

Launched this year after being enacted in 2024, this program gives eligible families the chance to use public funds for some sweet educational options. Think private school tuition, homeschooling expenses, or even out-of-district public school fees. For the 2025–26 school year, qualified families could receive up to $7,000 per child for private school or up to $2,000 per child (max $4,000 per family) for homeschooling. Not too shabby!

By the Numbers

Alabama Daily News reported in May that around 14,284 private school students are getting in on the action, racking up an estimated $100 million. Plus, around 6,913 homeschool students are looking at about $13.8 million, and 1,438 students in out-of-district public school programs will get roughly $10.1 million. Altogether, that's over 80% of the total approved funding, with private school peeps taking the biggest slice of the pie.

The Department of Revenue saw a whopping 36,873 student applications! As of mid-June, 23,576 awards were dished out. Families have until June 30 to verify enrollment with an approved education provider to start raking in the funds beginning July 1.

Who's Eligible?

Right now, the CHOOSE Act is available to households making less than 300% of the federal poverty level, which includes about 75% of Alabama families. Priority goes to students with disabilities, followed by children of active-duty military families attending priority schools, then by income level.

Where Were These Students Before?

Interestingly, most of the approved students were already outside the public school system before applying. About 45% were in private schools, and 29% were homeschooled. Roughly 22% came from public schools, and some plan to stay in public education through those out-of-district options. A few haven't totally locked in their plans yet.

What Happens to Unused Funds?

Any leftover dough from the CHOOSE Act’s $180 million annual budget goes back into the state’s Educational Opportunities Reserve Fund.

Birmingham's Urban Alchemy Faces Fire Over Farmers Market Sign

A city-contracted nonprofit, Urban Alchemy, is catching heat after displaying a sign with, shall we say, colorful language at a local church's farmers market. Some folks are wondering if it was the right fit for a family-friendly, faith-based vibe.

What Went Down?

Urban Alchemy, the group the city tapped to lead homelessness response through the HEART program, set up shop at East Lake United Methodist Church's market. The sign at their tent caused a stir, upsetting some churchgoers and community members.

City Council Weighs In

Birmingham City Councilor Hunter Williams didn't mince words, expressing frustration with Urban Alchemy's choice of language, especially considering they're funded by the city. He pointed out the city has given them over $1 million since September 2024 and said this kind of display isn't exactly what Birmingham is all about. He's urging them to keep the spicy words off their clothes, signs, and everything else when they're out and about.

Urban Alchemy's Response

Urban Alchemy defended their language as part of their internal culture, but admitted it might not be right for every situation.

"We value our partnership with the City and are committed to continuing to deliver transformative impact in the communities we serve," they said in a statement.

They explained the phrase is a reminder to their team to stick to their core values and fight against negativity. They say "f**" represents things like deceit, exploitation, and neglect. They want their team to be truthful, empathetic, and supportive.

"We recognize that this language, while meaningful to our workforce, may not be appropriate in all public spaces, particularly family-friendly or faith-based settings. We take community feedback seriously and will ensure that our signage and materials reflect the values and expectations of the Birmingham community and our city partners.”

Background on Urban Alchemy

Urban Alchemy leads the city's HEART program, offering support to unhoused residents. They've faced scrutiny in the past related to legal and operational issues, despite getting $1.5 million in city contracts.

Birmingham City Council Candidate Faces Larceny Charge

Justin Smith, the 23-year-old community organizer and hopeful for Birmingham City Council District 8, is dealing with some legal heat. It stems from an alleged incident back in 2024 while he was working in Boston.

The Allegations

Smith is facing a felony larceny charge relating to alleged thefts from a retail store. He's pleaded not guilty and is currently navigating the pretrial process.

The Backstory

According to Boston Police, Smith allegedly swiped nearly $50,000 worth of wallets and handbags from Saks Fifth Avenue, where he was employed at the time. Yikes!

Smith Responds

In a Facebook video, Smith addressed the charges head-on. “Over a year ago, as a college student, I was charged in Boston. I pled not guilty and I stand by that because this case is more complicated than a headline or security video,” he stated. "I came back home to Birmingham. I graduated from college. And I kept building because I believe that my generation and my community deserves leadership that’s honest, that’s been through some things, and that still chooses to serve. I am not stopping. The race continues.”

About Justin Smith

Smith has made a name for himself through youth-driven advocacy, focusing on things like public safety, gun reform, and making the community a better place. His platform involves sprucing up infrastructure, backing local businesses, and boosting public safety programs.

The Race is On!

If Smith wins, he'd be the youngest rep for District 8. The current council member, Carol E. Clarke, isn't running again. Smith will go head-to-head with Birmingham Board of Education member Sonja Smith in the August 26 primary.