Senator Slams Fellow Republicans Over Conservative Bill Stalling

State Senator Chris Elliott (R-Josephine) is calling out some of his fellow Republicans for what he sees as a lack of support for key conservative bills. He's not holding back!

Disappointment Over Religious Instruction Bill

Elliott's particularly bummed about the failure of a bill last session that would have allowed public school students to attend off-campus religious and character instruction during school hours. The bill stalled in the State House Government Committee after a 5-5 tie vote. Ouch!

Elliott Sounds Off

"[S]ometimes on issues such as this, I look around and I can count the supporters...maybe on one hand, and then the rest get kind of squeamish," Elliott said, firing shots on WVNN’s "The Yaffee Program." He added that some legislators buckle under pressure from school superintendents and boards, failing to back what he calls an "easy win for conservatives."

Hope for the Future?

State Senator Shay Shelnutt (R-Trussville) has already pre-filed similar legislation for the 2026 session, aiming to mandate that all public school districts offer elective credit for students attending private religious instruction during the school day.

Calling on Colleagues

Elliott's hoping more of his colleagues will step up and vote for the bill next year. He praised Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth for calling out the opposition from "edu-crats" against this and similar issues. "When you start pushing good, hard conservative issues, it really separates the true conservatives from those that may not be as conservative on issues like this," Elliott asserted.

What the Bill Would Do

If passed, the legislation would require each local school board to create a policy allowing students to receive elective credit for attending religious instruction during school hours. Local boards would have the flexibility to tailor the policy to their specific needs.

Central Texas Floods: Mobile Couple Still Missing

Tragedy struck central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend as devastating flash floods swept through the area. Sadly, the death toll has climbed past 100, and a Mobile couple remains missing.

The Santana Family's Ordeal

Eddie Santana Sr., 69, and Ileana Santana, 66, were visiting family at a riverside cabin in Kerr County when the disaster hit. Early Friday morning, floodwaters surged, tearing the cabin from its foundation with the Santana family inside.

Also in the cabin were their son, Eddie Santana Jr., 39, his wife Camille, 38, and their young daughter, Mila Rosa, 5. The river’s ferocious power overwhelmed them all.

A Son's Survival and Continued Search

Eddie Jr. heroically escaped through the roof and clung to debris for nearly four grueling hours before being rescued. After a hospital stay, he’s now joining his brother, Michael, and other family members in the desperate search for their parents and loved ones.

Community Support for the Santanas

Friends and supporters have rallied to create a fundraiser to support the Santana family as they navigate this heartbreaking situation and continue the search.

The River's Fury

Fueled by intense overnight rainfall, the Guadalupe River rose a staggering 20+ feet in just two hours! The surge swallowed homes, cabins, and campsites, leaving a path of destruction and despair. Dozens remain missing statewide as rescue efforts continue.

Alabama Steps Up to Help Texas Flood Victims!

When disaster strikes, it's easy to feel helpless. But Alabamians are proving that even from afar, we can make a real difference! After the devastating Texas flood over the Fourth of July weekend, which tragically claimed over 100 lives, folks across our state are rolling up their sleeves to help.

Baldwin County Chaplain Provides Crucial Support

WIAT reports that Tony Dickey, a chaplain from Baldwin County, headed straight to Kerrville, Texas! He's there volunteering with Mercy Chefs, an awesome faith-based disaster relief organization. They're serving up professionally prepared, hot meals to those exhausted first responders and displaced families. Mercy Chefs works hand-in-hand with local churches and groups, tackling immediate needs and building community strength for the long haul.

Dickey emphasized how rescue workers need just as much emotional and spiritual support as they do a good meal. The scenes of devastation are heart-wrenching, reminding him of the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina.

Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Lending a Hand

It's not just individuals stepping up! The Alabama Baptist reports that Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief teams are contributing through financial gifts from churches and individuals. These donations are vital for providing food, shelter, and all sorts of recovery assistance in Central Texas.

You Can Help Too!

The need is ongoing! If you're feeling moved to help, you can visit Mercy Chefs or Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief to contribute and make a difference. Let's show Texas what Alabama spirit is all about!

TikTok Challenge Troubles Calera!

Hold up, ChumCity fam! A recent TikTok challenge is causing a ruckus down in Calera, and the fuzz ain't happy! The Calera PD is on the hunt for two peeps they believe are involved in a viral door-knocking prank that's gone way too far.

Knock, Knock... BANG!

The "challenge" involves kicking, knocking, or generally terrorizing folks by banging on their doors, often late at night! Can you imagine?! WIAT reports the cops initially thought these particular suspects were trying to break in, but now think it's just a dumb social media thing.

Deadly Serious

But here's the thing: Calera police are warning this "prank" could have some seriously bad consequences. Alabama's Stand Your Ground law means homeowners can use deadly force if they feel threatened. A dumb TikTok could turn tragic FAST!

Charges Incoming

The Calera PD says anyone caught pulling this stunt could face criminal charges, including breaking and entering an occupied residence! They're serious about prosecuting these pranksters, so DON'T DO IT!

What To Do If It Happens To YOU

If some knucklehead pulls this on you, DOCUMENT EVERYTHING! Save that security footage, jot down the time, date, and any details you can remember. Then, CALL THE COPS! Especially if there's damage or you feel unsafe.

Protect Yo'self!

Also, peep your homeowner's insurance policy to see what's covered if things get hairy. Thinking about upgrading your security? Smart doorbell cameras, motion-sensor lights, and beefed-up door reinforcements can help keep your home safe and sound.

Help the Police!

The Calera PD is still investigating the Camden Cove incident and wants anyone with info on the suspects to step up and speak out. Stay safe out there, ChumCity!

ChumCity News Flash!

1. Immigration Showdown: The Dems and the media are throwing fits about immigration enforcement, even though many folks are cool with it. Meanwhile, the GOP just greenlit a huge budget boost for ICE, meaning more deportations! And Trump? He's straight-up said, "No amnesty!"

2. Crump Steps In: Ben Crump, the go-to guy for police shooting cases, is demanding the release of body cam footage in the tragic death of Alabama teen Jabari Peoples. He's promising this case won't be swept under the rug.

3. Spann vs. Social Media: Our very own James Spann is at it again, griping about online haters. But, hey, he's totally right to call out the BS blaming Dems or Republicans for the horrific Texas floods. It's nature, folks!

4. Layoffs Incoming? The Supreme Court just gave Trump the thumbs-up on his plan for federal layoffs. Get ready for some workforce shakeups!

5. Epstein Mess: Trump's getting heat from all sides (and the Internet) about how his administration is handling the Epstein investigation reboot. Transparency is the name of the game, apparently... or is it? Up to you if you care.

6. DOJ Investigates: The DOJ is poking around, looking at Comey and Brennan for alleged shenanigans in the Trump-Russia probe. Plus, the Trump White House is waiving executive privilege in a probe involving Biden's doc, Kevin O'Connor. Drama, drama!

7. Montgomery Crime Stats: Mayor Reed is claiming a major crime drop in Montgomery. Some residents are side-eyeing the numbers, but the data's there. Believe it or not!

Who's Bringing the Heat?

Dale Jackson, the brains behind Yellowhammer News, is your go-to guy for talk radio. Tune in to WVNN weekdays from 5-9 a.m. for his hot takes.

Foley's Farmers Market Reels in National Acclaim!

Guess what, ChumCity? Our very own Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermens Market in Foley just snagged a spot in Newsweek’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the Top 10 Best Farmers Markets in the U.S.! How awesome is that?

This isn't their first rodeo! Located at 781 Farmers Market Lane, Foley, they’ve already been a USA Today Top 10 Readers’ Choice winner in 2021 and 2022. Talk about a winning streak!

Freshness & Community

What's the secret? They're all about providing locally grown goodies – fruits, veggies, seafood, organic beef, and handcrafted items – straight from the folks who grow and make them! Managed by Alescia Forland under the City of Foley, it's all about supporting our local farmers and fishermen, and keeping the Gulf Coast healthy and happy.

Get Your Fresh Fix

Mark your calendars! The market's open every Saturday from 90 a.m. to 20 p.m., rain or shine. It's all under a spacious covered venue, so no weather worries!

Don't Miss These Events!

• Coastal Garden Festival (last Saturday in February): Get your green thumb on! Vendors, Master Gardeners, kids’ activities, and the City of Foley’s Arbor Day tree giveaway.

• Corn Festival (the day before Father’s Day in June): Summer produce, a corn-eating contest, kids’ activities, and the hilarious “Corny Dad Cookoff”!

• Harvest Festival (Saturday before Thanksgiving): Pre-Thanksgiving fun, including the Little Miss Harvest Queen Pageant for Baldwin County 3rd–5th graders!

• Christmas Night Market (midweek in early December): Unique artisan gifts, Christmas treats, a visit from Santa, and a wishing tree.

Top Markets in the Nation

Foley's market is in good company! Here are a few of the other awesome markets that made the Newsweek Top 10:

• Ithaca Farmers Market — Ithaca, NY
• Alabama Coastal Farmers and Fishermens Market – Foley, AL
• Dallas Farmers Market — Dallas, TX
• Santa Fe Farmers’ Market — Santa Fe, NM
• Dane County Farmers’ Market — Madison, WI
• Lancaster Central Market — Lancaster, PA
• Burlington Farmers Market — Burlington, VT
• Pike Place Market — Seattle, WA
• Ann Arbor Farmers Market — Ann Arbor, MI
• Boston Public Market — Boston, MA

Alabama Puts the Brakes on Some THC Products

Whoa, hold your horses, weed lovers! While the rest of the world seems to be catching the green fever, Alabama's tapped the brakes on some THC goodies. Yep, the Yellowhammer State's taking a second look at what's available.

Is Alabama Part of a Trend?

Turns out, Alabama's not alone in hitting pause. Thailand's pulled the plug on its recreational weed trial run, and whispers suggest other states and countries might be following suit. Are we seeing a global green slowdown?

What's Next for Alabama?

State Rep. April Weaver (R-Brierfield) is already thinking ahead, proposing even tighter rules for the next legislative session. Looks like the debate's just heating up!

The Inside Scoop

Want to stay in the know? Dale Jackson, the brain behind Yellowhammer News, dishes out the details on WVNN weekdays from 5-9 a.m. Tune in to get your daily dose of Alabama insights!

Fresh Face in the 6th: Case Dixon Challenges Gary Palmer!

Case Dixon's thrown his hat in the ring for Alabama's 6th District! This Republican hopeful dropped a new campaign video on Wednesday, outlining his vision for the future. He says his kids and community pushed him to take on the challenge.

Dixon is going head-to-head with the incumbent, Gary Palmer, who's held the seat since 2015.

Who is Case Dixon?

He's a husband, a dad to two little girls, and a physical therapist assistant with deep Alabama roots. Raised in Alabaster and Maylene, homeschooled by his mom, and from a military family, Dixon graduated from Hope Christian School in 2018 and got his degree from Jefferson State in 2021. He and his wife just celebrated their second daughter's arrival!

Why Run?

Dixon says he felt he had "no other choice" after his first daughter was born. He wants new leadership to tackle the big issues facing our nation.

Dixon's Platform: What's He Fighting For?

Here's a quick look at his key priorities:

• Fiscal Discipline: Cutting wasteful spending, tackling the national debt, protecting Social Security and Medicare, and keeping our tax dollars here at home.

• Ethics Reform: Term limits for Congress, banning stock trading by members, and ending the misuse of leadership PACs to eliminate corruption.

• Breaking Big Pharma's Grip: Patient-first healthcare by cutting red tape, expanding telemedicine and home care, empowering nurse practitioners, and rescheduling cannabis for better access and state's rights.

• Families First: Simplifying the tax code and cutting rates so families keep more of their hard-earned money, and removing old limits on care-related deductions.

• Defend Life: A nationwide abortion ban, defending rights "endowed by God and the Constitution."

• Protecting Liberty: Fighting federal overreach and protecting our constitutional principles to safeguard freedom and self-governance.

Tuberville Racks Up More Endorsements in Gubernatorial Bid

Senator Tommy Tuberville's campaign for Alabama governor in 2026 is gaining serious momentum! He's snagged another big endorsement: the Alabama Associated General Contractors (AAGC). This crew is the oldest and biggest non-residential construction association in the state, dating all the way back to 1920.

Tuberville's Take

“I am thankful for the support of the Alabama Associated General Contractors,” Tuberville said, laying the blame for economic woes at Biden's feet and praising Trump's efforts. He added, as Governor, he'd partner with Trump to cut red tape and bring on Alabama's "Golden Age."

Why the AAGC is On Board

Billy Norrell, CEO of Alabama AGC, emphasized Tuberville's understanding of the construction industry's needs. "Coach understands the needs of Alabama’s construction industry and has been an advocate for us in the United States Senate," Norrell stated. They're stoked to team up and keep Alabama's building scene booming under Tuberville's pro-business policies.

Other Big Names Backing Tuberville

The AAGC isn't the only group singing Tuberville's praises. The Business Council of Alabama (BCA), the Alabama Forestry Association (AFA), and the Alabama Concrete Industries Association (ACIA) have also thrown their support behind him. They say he's got a solid track record of championing business and pushing for economic growth.

Mark Your Calendars

The Alabama Republican Party primary election is set for May 26, 2026.

Shark Attack Alerts Could Be Coming to Your Phone!

Remember that terrifying shark attack on a Mountain Brook teen down in the Florida Panhandle last year? Well, some amazing news! The U.S. Senate just gave a big thumbs-up to legislation that could send mobile phone alerts about shark attacks straight to your pocket!

Lulu's Law: A Game Changer

It's called "Lulu's Law," named after the incredibly brave Lulu Gribbin, who inspired the whole thing. Senator Katie Britt championed this bipartisan effort, aiming to get the Federal Communication Commission to include shark attacks in the list of events that trigger wireless emergency alerts (WEAs).

Senator Britt's Take

"Lulu's grit and determination are truly inspiring," said Senator Britt. "This law is just common sense. It'll give authorities a way to quickly warn beachgoers and keep them safe!"

How It Works

Lulu's Law would let local, state, and even federal authorities blast out warnings if there's been an attack or if conditions are ripe for one. Think of it as a heads-up from the ocean itself!

A Family's Gratitude

Lulu's parents, Ann Blair and Joe Gribbin, are over the moon. "Lulu is a miracle," they said. "This is one step closer to keeping our kids safe." They're urging the House of Representatives to pass this bill, too!

Big Support in Congress

Lulu's Law has gotten love from both sides of the aisle. Lots of Senators are backing it, and Representatives Gary Palmer and Shomari Figures are leading the charge in the House. Let's hope this becomes law soon and keeps our beaches a little safer!