Alabama Camps: A Call for Safety

For generations, Alabama summer camps have been cherished places for families. We're talking former campers, staff, and parents of current campers – people who've seen firsthand the magic of these experiences. We also had the distinct privilege of knowing Sarah Marsh.

Sadly, in July 2025, we had to break the news to our kids that their friend had tragically passed away in a camp flood.

Keeping Our Kids Safe at Camp

Now, as another summer approaches, the tough questions come: "Is my cabin safe? Is MY camp safe? Will my counselor know what to do?" That's why we are fully behind House Bill 381, the Sarah Marsh Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Marsh family, advocating for crystal-clear safety expectations at every camp.

When parents voice concerns about their children's well-being, we MUST listen with open hearts and act. It's especially vital when families who have experienced such profound loss, like the Marshes, ask for our attention and the legislature's help to prevent future tragedies.

Upholding a Culture of Safety

Most Alabama camps already operate with integrity, making safety a top priority. They communicate openly about emergency preparedness and do everything they can to protect our children. But good intentions aren't always enough. We need outside experts reviewing and evaluating emergency plans. We want to turn awareness into extra safeguards for our kids and the camp communities we love.

Why HB 381 Matters

HB 381 isn't just about rules; it's pro-camp, pro-kids, pro-parent, and pro-safety! It brings standards up to date and makes our summer camps even stronger for future generations. The bill requires all camps to have:

• Annually updated emergency plans covering fire, flood, weather, illness, and other disasters.
• Background checks for all employees and volunteers.
• Clear safety notification protocols, including weather radios and camp-wide alert systems.
• Staff training for weather emergencies.

Building Trust and Confidence

We believe these commonsense regulations will boost trust among parents and the public. Kids will feel more confident going to camp to explore nature, learn new skills, unplug from social media, and build lifelong friendships. Trust is EVERYTHING in the camp experience.

Standing with the Marsh Family

Out of their unimaginable loss, the Marsh family is working tirelessly to create change in Sarah's memory. Let's stand with them to strengthen summer camp safety in Alabama.

Please support Alabama HB381. Contact your legislators and tell them to vote YES!

Melissa Powell, Camp Winnataska and Camp DeSoto alumna, parent of Camp DeSoto and Alpine Camp for Boys campers Ila and Jim Broyles, staff and camping alumnus of Camp Alpine Anne Miles Golson, alumna of Camp Mac; parent of Camp Winnataska camper Mary Meadows Livingston, friend of the Marsh Family Ginger and Josh Menendez, camping alumni of Camps Skyline and Alpine, staff alumni of Camps Desoto and Alpine, parents of current Alpine campers Anna Kate Prum, alumna of Camp Skyline Emily Schultz, alumna of Camp Winnataska and Camp Cosby; parent of current Camp Cosby campers Shannon Price, parent of Camp Winnataska and Camp Skyline campers Lauren Cole, friend of the Marsh Family Emily and Oscar Price, Alumnus of Alpine Camp and parents of current Alpine campers Ellen F Eaton, friend of the Marsh Family Ashlee Fulmer, parent of campers at Camp Sumatanga and Camp Seafarer, my daughter was friends with Sarah Kali Bennett, friend of the Marsh Family Jessica Ata Stacy Rockwell Gunn, parent of current Camp Mac and Camp Cosby campers Lauren Robinson Mary Louise Quinn, Alumna of Camp DeSoto, employee of Camp DeSoto and Alpine Camp for Boys, parent of current Camp DeSoto and Alpine Camp for Boys campers Lauren Amberson Laura Lumsden Kat Rinehart Loftin Rinehart Laura Van Pelt, parent of current Camp Winnataska camper Emily and Matthew Menendez, camping alumni of Camps Desoto and Alpine, staff alumni of Camp Alpine, parents of current Alpine campers Megan & Colton Houston, parents of current Skyline campers Anne Lynn Langloh, fellow parishioners at the Cathedral Church of the Advent Tara Davis, parent of Camp Laney camper and friend of the Marsh Family

Brian Kelly Sounds Off After LSU Exit!

So, remember that whole Brian Kelly/LSU thing? Yeah, well, the former Tigers head honcho has finally opened up since getting the boot this season. And guess what? He's not exactly hanging up his cleats just yet.

What's Next for Kelly?

During a chat with Sirius XM, Kelly dished on his LSU departure and whether the 64-year-old wants to keep coaching. While he's not rushing to grab a new gig, he definitely wants to stay in the game.

Staying Sharp

"I haven’t decided if I'm jumping back in, because I want to see some changes happen," he said. "While I wait, I need to work and stay in the game."

Road Trip!

So, what's he planning? Kelly's hitting the road! He's spending the next few weeks visiting spring practices to soak up the atmosphere and check out the football and operational sides of things. He's also keen on getting a feel for the NIL landscape, the transfer portal, and the new calendar.

Learning From the Best

But wait, there's more! In the fall, Kelly wants to shadow his former assistants, including four NFL head coaches and four Power Four assistant coaches. His goal? To learn from them, see their programs, and figure out how he can become even better.

The Future is Unwritten

Whether Kelly will return to the college scene remains a mystery. But one thing's for sure: this guy isn't fading into the sunset anytime soon. He's staying active, learning, and waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike!

Buttigieg in the 'Ham: Building Bridges or Political Posturing?

Blueprint Alabama rolled out the red carpet for former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in Birmingham today. The ex-transportation head honcho joined Mayor Randall Woodfin for a "community conversation."

What's the Blueprint?

The event's being hyped as a mission to "build bridges" across Alabama. Sounds noble, right?

Doubts in the Air

But not everyone's buying it. Critics are scratching their heads, wondering why Buttigieg, considering his tenure under President Biden, is the chosen one. What's really on the agenda?

Dale Jackson's Take

For insightful commentary, tune in to Dale Jackson, Yellowhammer News thought leader. He's on WVNN weekdays from 5-9 a.m.

GE Aerospace Supercharges Huntsville Operations!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCity! GE Aerospace is injecting a massive $55 million into its Huntsville-area operations. This isn't just pocket change; it's a huge commitment to expanding manufacturing and bolstering the entire aerospace supply chain!

What's the Buzz About?

The investment will fuel new, high-tech production equipment and spruce up the Huntsville facility itself. The goal? Crank up production and maintain tip-top quality as demand for aerospace goodies skyrockets. This Huntsville facility is a crucial player, churning out advanced materials used in today's cutting-edge aircraft engines!

Advanced Materials = Awesome Engines

Think super-lightweight, ultra-heat-resistant materials. We're talking Hi-Nicalon Type S silicon carbide (SiC) fiber and SiC pre-preg tape. These building blocks create ceramic matrix composite components. Get this: they're one-third the weight of traditional metals and can handle temperatures 500 degrees hotter! That means better engine efficiency and longer lifespans.

Huntsville: Aerospace Hub

Local leaders are pumped about this, saying it cements the region's rep as a booming hub for aerospace and advanced manufacturing. Bethany Shockney from the Limestone County Economic Development Association sums it up: "This facility is producing cutting-edge materials that are literally changing how aircraft are built, and we're proud Huntsville and Limestone County is at the center of that innovation."

Bigger Picture, Bigger Investment

This $55 million is part of GE Aerospace's grand plan to pump a cool $1 billion into U.S. manufacturing sites and suppliers in 2026. And guess what? It’s the second year in a row they're committing that level of funding nationwide!

More to Come!

This isn't a one-time thing, either. The Huntsville site has already seen over $93 million in investments over the past three years! Limestone County Commission Chairman Collin Daly says it's all about economic momentum, making the area a fantastic place to live and work.

Sky's the Limit

Huntsville is part of a broader aerospace corridor in North Alabama, where defense, aviation, and advanced manufacturing companies are booming. GE Aerospace is also planning to hire 5,000 workers across the US in 2026. Talk about job creation!

Trump Talks College Sports Chaos!

President Trump recently gathered some heavy hitters for a roundtable about the wild world of college sports. NIL deals, the transfer portal... you name it, they talked about it!

Big Names in the Room

We're talking Nick Saban, Urban Meyer, Greg Sankey... the room was packed with power players aiming to find a way forward. The goal? Let athletes cash in on their fame, but keep college sports special.

Congress to the Rescue?

Trump stressed that Congress needs to step up with some clear guidelines. He wants rules that make sense and are actually, you know, enforceable – something that's been missing for a while.

Saving College Sports?

According to Trump, if Congress doesn't act fast, college sports could be in serious trouble! He's not looking to block athletes from making money, but he is aiming to shut down the "pay-for-play" recruiting madness that's been going on.

Executive Order Incoming?

Trump hinted at an executive order coming soon. If it happens, it'd be the second time he's used that power on this issue. Will it actually fix anything? Only time will tell. But for the first time in a while, it feels like maybe some real progress is being made.

Huntsville's Role in "Operation Epic Fury"

Senator Tommy Tuberville dropped a bombshell at the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber's Washington Update, revealing Huntsville's pivotal role in "Operation Epic Fury"!

North Alabama's Defense Sector Steps Up

According to Tuberville, North Alabama's engineers and defense contractors were instrumental in supporting weapons systems and technical advancements directly tied to the operation. He emphasized Huntsville's longstanding leadership in missile defense and military innovation.

"Most Lethal, Successful Air Campaign"

Tuberville boldly declared, "Operation Epic Fury is the most lethal, successful air campaign in world history. A lot of it was because of Huntsville, Alabama." He highlighted the region's contributions, from military hardware to the engineering brilliance that birthed systems developed at Redstone Arsenal.

Huntsville: The Brains Behind the Brawn

"We should all be immensely proud of our military," Tuberville stated, "But we also should be proud of our defense community in Huntsville, who were the brains behind a lot of this that is going on."

Reverse Engineering for Defense

He cited Huntsville's work with missile systems and drone technology, revealing how local engineers adapted foreign weapons designs into usable defense. "Our engineers were able to take Iran's missile design… we restructured it here in Huntsville, put it in process and production, and we use it against them," he shared.

Huntsville: A Defense Tech Powerhouse

Anchored by Redstone Arsenal and home to over 300 defense and aerospace companies, including giants like Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Blue Origin, Huntsville remains a national defense technology powerhouse.

Strengthening its Position

With the expansion of federal agencies like U.S. Space Command and the FBI in the region, Huntsville's position as a defense hub is only getting stronger.

SBA Prioritizes Loans for American Citizens!

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), under President Trump, is putting American citizens FIRST! They're making sure SBA-backed loans go where they should: to hardworking Americans.

No More Loans for Foreign Nationals!

The SBA just dropped a new policy notice that bans foreign nationals and non-citizens from grabbing SBA-guaranteed small business loans. To get those sweet SBA funds, you gotta be a U.S. citizen or national and live here full-time!

"American Citizens First!" Says SBA Administrator

"The Trump SBA is all about growing the economy and creating jobs for American citizens!" exclaimed SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. "We're making it crystal clear: SBA loans are for Americans building businesses right here at home!"

Expanding the Policy

This latest move builds on earlier actions, expanding the "Americans Only" policy to include Surety Bond and Microloan Programs. Previously, it already applied to the big 504 and 7(a) loan programs.

Why the Change?

Loeffler explains, "Our lending authority is limited, and demand is through the roof! We have a duty to prioritize American citizens. They are the ones building businesses and making jobs right here in the USA!"

Putting America First

The SBA is committed to putting American small business owners first. Last year, they implemented citizenship verification across all loan programs to cut off access for illegal aliens. They've even talked about moving SBA offices out of sanctuary cities that don't play by the rules!

Spring Break Tweak: Part of Orange Beach Shores Shut Down

Heads up, beach bums! Orange Beach officials have temporarily closed a sliver of Alabama Point East near the Perdido Pass Bridge. Word is, it's a move to keep the peace with Spring Break crowds about to descend on our sunny shores.

Why the Closure?

City officials emphasize that Orange Beach is all about family vibes, and unruly behavior just ain't gonna fly. Think responsible fun, clean beaches, and respect for each other. Got it?

Where's Closed? Where's Open?

The closure is just for that small stretch between the Gulf State Park boardwalk and the Perdido Pass bridge. The rest of Alabama Point East, including the parking areas, is still open for business. All other public access beaches in Orange Beach? Wide open!

Behind the Decision

Apparently, this specific spot has been a bit of a trouble magnet in years past. The Orange Beach Police Chief mentioned that the area's layout allowed for some less-than-ideal situations to happen out of sight. Think bridge jumping, fights, and underage sipping.

Law Enforcement is Ready

The police are serious about keeping things safe. They're ready to crack down on disorderly conduct, illegal drugs, and underage drinking. So, come ready to have a good time, but keep it clean and respectful!

Expecting a Crowd

With tons of colleges hitting spring break, followed by local schools, Orange Beach is bracing for a population boom. The closure is expected to stick around through most of April.

It's Not Just Us

Orange Beach isn't the only one tightening the reins. Panama City Beach is also implementing similar measures to keep things safe during the spring break rush.

Trump's Midterm Mission

President Trump's laying down the gauntlet for Republicans gearing up for the midterms. Top priorities? Think serious border security, rock-solid energy independence, taming that inflation beast, and ensuring squeaky-clean elections. He's calling for victories, and these are the battlegrounds!

'Bama's Student Mags: Back & Independent!

Remember those censorship squabbles at The University of Alabama that grounded the student magazines? Well, get this: they're soaring back, under fresh names and flying solo! Student editors are promising way more editorial freedom and zero university meddling. Freedom of the press, baby!

Selma's Mayor Speaks Out

Selma Mayor James Perkins is NOT having it. After violence marred the Bloody Sunday anniversary weekend, he's slammed the incidents that left folks injured. His message? These acts ain't Selma, and they sure don't represent the spirit of civil rights commemoration. Preach!

Ivey Under Fire as Execution Looms

Governor Kay Ivey's in the hot seat. A controversial Alabama execution is on the horizon, and opponents and advocates are piling on the pressure. They're demanding she step in and "do the right thing," amid heated debates about the method, due process, and the whole darn moral picture.

Britt Blasts Dems, Clarifies Filibuster Stance

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) is not pulling punches. She's accusing Democrats of playing political games during those tense government shutdown talks, especially with all that airport chaos. And she's setting the record straight after a Fox News report: she DOES support strong election integrity measures, clarifying her stance on using the talking filibuster for the SAVE Act.

Tuberville Hypes Huntsville's Role in Iran Conflict

Governor-elect (and National Championship-winning Coach and U.S. Senator) Tommy Tuberville is singing Huntsville's praises. He's calling it the brains behind Trump's conflict in Iran, highlighting Alabama's vital role in Operation Epic Fury – calling it the most lethal air campaign ever! Plus, he's stoked about that submarine parts plant bringing up to 1,500 jobs to the Rocket City.

Trump Declares "Little Excursion" Nearing End

President Trump says the conflict in Iran is wrapping up. He's calling it a "little excursion" that's almost done. Oil prices spiked to $100 before dropping due to ongoing U.S.-Israel strikes in Operation Epic Fury.

Dale Jackson: The Voice of Reason

Want more hard-hitting analysis? Check out Dale Jackson, the thought leader over at Yellowhammer News. You can catch his talk show weekdays from 5-9 a.m. on WVNN.

Alabama Eyes Ban on Foreign Campaign Cash!

Hold on to your hats, ChumCityzens! A new bill is making waves in the Alabama Legislature, aiming to slam the door on foreign money in our state elections.

The Deets

State Rep. James Lomax and State Sen. Dan Roberts are championing the bill, which would ban foreign nationals and corporations from donating to Alabama candidates and political groups. While federal law already blocks foreign money in federal races, Alabama's current setup leaves a gap.

Why Now?

Senator Roberts says Alabama needs its own law so our prosecutors can crack down on criminal foreign influence. Even with the federal ban, loopholes let foreign cash seep into ballot issue campaigns (think constitutional amendments).

The Nitty-Gritty

HB214 stops foreign nationals from donating "directly or indirectly" to state or local parties, PACs, ads, or even promising donations. Candidates can't ask for foreign cash either! Breaking the rules? That's a Class C felony, potentially landing you in the slammer for up to 10 years.

Protecting Our Elections

Secretary of State Wes Allen is on board, saying this move will protect the integrity of Alabama elections. Across the country, folks are getting worried about foreign influence, and other states are looking at similar laws to beef up election security.

What's the Goal?

Supporters say it's all about keeping Alabama elections fair by keeping foreign dough out of our local campaigns. Stay tuned, ChumCity, as this one unfolds!