Goldman Sachs is expanding its $100 million investment initiative for rural communities, the 10,000 Small Businesses program, to Alabama. At an event last week at Innovation Depot in Birmingham, firm executives alongside U.S. Senator Katie Britt and U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell celebrated the program’s launch — and what it will mean for small business owners who will benefit for years to come.

John F.W. Rogers, Executive Vice President of Goldman Sachs, captured the importance of supporting entrepreneurs as the program expands to Alabama, while acknowledging the challenges rural small businesses face.

“When Goldman Sachs launched this 10,000 Small Businesses program 15 years ago, we brought to the equation resources, partnerships, access to business, education and capital – and, in essence, the medium and the wherewithal,” Rogers said. “But that’s largely where our contribution ended. The real differentiator came from the entrepreneurial spirit that’s already in each one of you, long before this program itself.”

“We stand with Alabama small businesses and are committed to equipping entrepreneurs with the education and resources they need to drive prosperity,” he said.

The investment is an extension of a program that has served 15,500 businesses across the country for more than a decade. The initiative to reach rural small business owners in 20 states over five years and has already helped enable job creation and growth in these communities as it launches in its fifth state: Alabama.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt addressed the room full of community leaders and program participants, introducing herself first as the daughter of two small business owners, who shared stories of her upbringing and the tireless dedication she saw in her parents pursuing the American dream.

Britt noted that 55 out of Alabama’s 67 counties are classified as rural and that 99.4% of businesses in the state are small businesses.

“Now with this effort, Goldman is investing $100 million across rural communities to help boost these small businesses by helping provide business owners with the knowledge and the tools to drive up revenue and to continue to create good paying jobs and at no cost to these small businesses so that they can continue to focus solely on expanding their business and opportunity within their community,” Sen. Britt (R-Montgomery) said.

“To me, it makes perfect sense to do this here in the great state of Alabama, because I believe that there is no sweeter home to do business than Alabama. Our state has a pro-growth, pro-jobs climate, and we have leaders who are committed to ensuring our state is the best place to live, work, worship, and do business.”

RELATED: Support for Sen. Britt’s childcare affordability proposal surging in Alabama and nationwide

During her speech, Sen. Britt reflected on her time as President and CEO of the Business Council of Alabama (BCA), where she saw firsthand the challenges and opportunities encountered by small businesses across the state. Britt noted that public-private partnerships, like the Goldman Sachs initiative, are crucial in addressing many challenges.

Goldman Sachs’ investment includes $75 million to CDFIs for small business loans, $15 million for business education programs at community colleges, and $10 million in capital capacity-building grants. In partnership with HOPE (Hope Enterprise Corporation/Hope Credit Union), Goldman Sachs announced the deployment of $20 million in capital to small businesses in the rural South, including a $3 million commitment to Alabama CDFIs like Communities Unlimited.

For Cara Stallman, owner of Grant Management LLC based in Fairhope, Alabama, joining Goldman Sachs’ 10,000 Small Businesses program has already been “tremendous.”
Stallman is part of the program’s first Alabama cohort, which recently met for its first week of a ten-week education, training and networking course. After 13 years in business, Stallman said in an interview that she has found the structured guidance and sense of community she was always looking for.

“When you’re a small business owner, you’re on your own a lot. There are a lot of things you have to learn. I’ve never taken a business class in my life, but I’ve had to learn how to deal with accounting, and I always feel like I’m behind the curve,” Stallman said.

“But what’s been really tremendous about this program is that it brings together a group of highly motivated, successful small business owners, and that sense of community has been extremely helpful. It also provides structure on how to be more successful and how to look to the future.”

“Most of the time, when you’re a small business owner, you’re just dealing with crisis and emergency, just trying to get through the day and figure out how you’re going to make money or what to do next. But this gives you an opportunity to step back,” she said.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Thirteen individuals with ties to Mountain Gateway, a Texas-based Christian missionary organization, were arrested and imprisoned in December of 2023 by the Nicaraguan government.

President Daniel Ortega of Nicaragua and the first lady and vice president, Rosario Murillo, accused the organization of using its nonprofit status as a cover to purchase luxury goods, property, and land.

The group associated with Mountain Gateway, including eleven pastors, never received an explanation regarding the allegations against them or official documentation of their supposed criminal charges. Additionally, they were denied legal counsel.

On Thursday morning, the individuals connected to the non-profit were released.

“This is the day we have prayed and believed God for. These pastors and attorneys have suffered greatly for the sake of the Gospel, but it has not been in vain. The Kingdom of God is advancing because of their persecution. Today, we cry tears of joy because our brothers and sisters are free!” said Jon Britton Hancock, founder of Mountain Gateway.

RELATED: Alabama officials call on Nicaragua to free Christian pastors imprisoned ‘for sharing the Gospel’

Alabama’s delegation in Washington played a critical role in securing the release of the imprisoned Christians, particularly U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt, who celebrated their freedom on Thursday.

“I am thankful to God for the release of not only these pastors but the other Christians being held as well,” said Aderholt (R-Haleyville) in a statement. “As I have said many times throughout this ordeal that began late last year, they were simply preaching and sharing the Good News of Christ’s redeeming love to others.”

https://x.com/Robert_Aderholt/status/1831674920826290579

“I have spoken this morning to the Hancock family, and they are overjoyed that everyone will soon be able to return home. I also know that what has transpired over the past year will not diminish these believers’ desire to continue to help others and simply share the good news of Christ.”

In February, Aderholt led a letter addressed to the Ambassador of Nicaragua expressing deep concern over violations of religious freedom in Nicaragua and calling for the release of the imprisoned.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt also worked hard to secure the group’s freedom by urging the Biden Administration to use every sanction enforcement authority and diplomatic leverage available.

“Religious freedom is an inalienable, God-given human right that must be protected at every turn,” said Britt (R-Montgomery). “I am tremendously grateful these Christian leaders are free, but they never should have been imprisoned in the first place. Let’s be very clear – these Christians were in prison because of their faith. Those who dedicate their lives to preaching the Gospel and advancing God’s Kingdom should be celebrated, not persecuted.”

“Today’s news is an answered prayer. I appreciate the State Department’s work to free these political prisoners and facilitate their safe passage out of Nicaragua. I will continue to be an unwavering champion of religious liberty in the United States Senate.”

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

The treatment and costs associated with in vitro fertilization should be mandatorily covered by insurance providers for all recipients, former President Donald Trump said today in the announcement of a new policy position.

“I’m announcing today in a major statement that under the Trump administration, your government will pay for, or your insurance company will be mandated to pay for all costs associated with IVF treatment fertilization for women,” Trump said at a campaign rally in Michigan. “Because we want more babies, to put it very nicely.”

“And for the same reason, we will also allow new parents to deduct major newborn expenses from taxes, so that parents that have a beautiful baby.”

https://x.com/trumpwarroom/status/1829268507919311287

RELATED: Trump calls on Alabama lawmakers to ensure IVF availability – ‘I strongly support’

Trump spoke out strongly in favor of IVF immediately following an Alabama Supreme Court ruling that dealt with the practice became a matter of national attention earlier this year. Democrats, including vice presidential nominee Tim Walz, are engaged in an effort to politicize the issue. Walz deliberately mischaracterized his wife’s infertility treatment as IVF in a fundraising plea earlier this month.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) has been a reliable messenger for the former President’s position on IVF. Britt introduced the IVF Protection Act along with U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), which was ultimately blocked by Senate Democrats.

Trump’s new policy proposal is the latest indication the subject of IVF will remain relevant in the 2024 election beyond.

“We’re pro-family,” Trump said. “The IVF treatments are so expensive, it’s very hard for many people to do it and to get it. But I’ve been in favor of IVF right from the beginning.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) is calling out Vice President Kamala Harris for changing her position on illegal immigration.

Earlier this week, Axios reported that Harris “pledges to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on the wall along the southern border.”

This is a stark contrast to the candidate’s previous position on the issue as she tries to rebrand herself in order to defeat former President Donald Trump in November.

https://x.com/RNCResearch/status/1828429945111994858

Britt reacted to the flip-flop recently on WVNN’s “The Yaffee Program.”

“Can you believe that?” Britt said. “I think she may put on a MAGA hat in her next ad. I mean, who the heck knows? You look at the way that she has moved on different issues, the way that she refuses to actually sit down and take an interview or a press conference…And the truth is she’s not doing that because she doesn’t know the answers. She’s unsure where she falls on these things.”

The Senator doesn’t believe Harris plans to change the policies of the Biden administration that have worsened the border crisis.

“Clearly she has no clear political agenda except for continuing these disastrous policies that we’ve seen under the Biden-Harris administration,” she argued. “And the truth is, everyone knows that America is weaker and more vulnerable as a result. Look at the border. The border is now a complete and total disaster.”

Harris, according to Britt, doesn’t take her job as Vice President seriously.

“She was handed the border. President Biden said, ‘Hey, go fix this.’ And instead what we’ve seen is a record number of people coming across our border, a record number of known gotaways, which means they’re people we saw, but we don’t know who they are, where they’re going, or what their intentions are.”

Britt also pointed to Democrats in Congress blocking one of her bills as proof that Harris has no real intention of securing the border and fixing the illegal immigration crisis.

“When it comes to the border too, you have things like the Laken Riley Act that I was proud to be the Senate sponsor of,” she said. “So myself, along with Senator Ted Brad, brought that to the Senate floor. It had passed the House in a bipartisan fashion, and yet Democrats on the Senate floor actually moved to block it.”

“So you take a look at that. You take a look at this administration. When you look back at this whole so-called bipartisan deal, you look back, this administration had three years of allowing our border policies and the fundamental laws of our nation to be trampled on.”

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” Weekdays 9-11am on WVNN. You can follow him on Twitter @Yaffee

While back in state for August recess, U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt visited with local and regional leaders at an Alabama League of Municipalities (ALM) congressional luncheon last week in Guntersville to offer updates on his work in Washington and solidify partnerships at home. 

Aderholt (R-Haleyville) spoke to the importance of being fiscally responsible while collaborating with Senate lawmakers and local leaders to bring federal funding back to the district and state. As Chairman of the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services, Aderholt spoke candidly about the challenges Congress faces in passing all 12 appropriations bills before the new fiscal year begins on Oct. 1. With just weeks left, Aderholt acknowledged the difficulty of meeting the deadline.

“We have a hard deadline of passing those 12 appropriation bills by September 30. So far this year, we have passed all 12 out of our committee, which is actually ahead of the game in many ways, and we passed five on the floor of the House. We have seven still to go,” he said. ”To be honest, between now and September 30, we’re going to have a very difficult time passing all those individual bills. So what we will do, as usual, is pass a continuing resolution to bridge us over until we can get all the bills together.”

RELATED: Rep. Barry Moore discusses progress on Farm Bill at Congressional luncheon in Dothan

Aderholt said the Alabama delegation has fostered a partnership together that others have not in Washington. “We can’t do anything in the House without the Senate, and the Senate can’t do anything without the House. It takes us both working together,” he said, thanking U.S. Sens. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and Katie Britt (R-Montgomery). 

The veteran congressman also expressed a commitment to helping small towns and cities in his district secure federal funding through community projects, which are crucial for driving economic development in areas with limited local budgets. 

Beyond the appropriations process, Aderholt raised urgency around Congressional action to secure the Southern Border and forecasted the stakes of the 2024 election. 

“Over the last four years, we’ve seen approximately 10 million aliens – illegal aliens – that have come across our border. There’s probably another 2 million or so that have escaped that we don’t know about. And out of the ones that have been apprehended, there’s been 350 at least, that have been on terrorist watch list. So that is something that I take seriously,” Aderholt said. 

“I know that you take seriously your own communities, and we have got to make sure the federal government addresses that issue, and hopefully we get back to Washington, I hope that there’ll be pressure on Congress truly act, especially on this administration, that we need to put partisan politics behind this.”

RELATED: Rep. Strong highlights federal wins, opportunities at Alabama League of Municipalities event

Looking ahead to the upcoming November general election, Aderholt said that control of the House and Senate could hinge on just a few key races.

“The House, Senate and the President is all up for grabs. The House, as I mentioned, we’re all up for reelection right now. We have a four-seat majority in the House of Representatives. There’s 435, seats up, there’s only about 20 or 25 that are really what I would consider toss-up races.”

“The Senate as you know, is controlled by the Democrats of one seat. But obviously that is one of those things that with [U.S. Senator Joe Manchin] seat now flipping Republican, and most likely that’s going to go Republican — I don’t see West Virginia voting for a Democrat for their Senate. Then that puts it 50-50. So whoever picks up one seat after the West Virginia seat will control the Senate.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Alabama’s Democratic nominee for the state’s Second Congressional District got to speak on the national stage Thursday night, promoting criticism from Alabama’s two U.S. Senators. Shomari Figures spoke briefly at the Democratic National Convention as he tries to gain more support for his congressional race against Republican nominee Caroleene Dobson in District 2.

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“I am running for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District,” Figures said, “the district that gave America the Tuskegee Airmen, Rosa Parks, Fred Gray, and it is the birth place of the civil rights movement in Montgomery, Alabama… and of course, this district is home to Mr. good trouble himself, Congressman John Lewis.”

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) responded to the speech on social media, calling him “just another swamp creature.”

“Because of the economic policies Shomari Figures supports, feeding a family at Burger King today costs about the same as a nice, sit-down restaurant dinner just a few years ago,” Tuberville said. “Alabama families can’t afford to have Figures in Congress.”

https://x.com/TTuberville/status/1826787448946319569

Figures’ opponent also responded to the speech during an appearance on “Fox and Friends First,” Friday morning.

“[W]hether they’re Republican or they’re Democrat, they’re realizing that the policies of the Biden-Harris- Figures administration have failed us. They’ve wrecked our economy,” Dobson said. “They’ve flung open our borders. They’ve made our communities less safe. This district doesn’t want a far-left progressive. They don’t want a Washington insider to maintain the status quo.”

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) agreed with Dobson’s take on the Figures campaign, saying she’s “spot on.”

“She knows Alabama families deserve stable prices, secure borders, safe streets, and a strong America,” Britt said. “That’s why it’s so important we send her to Congress.”

https://x.com/KatieBrittforAL/status/1827022121572462664

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee

As part of the 2024 NICU Bookworms Day, U.S. Senator Katie Britt visited Children’s of Alabama and the UAB Hospital on Monday to read to premature and sick newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit. She selected a handful of books from the hospital’s new book vending machine.

“I want every child to have the opportunity to live their American Dream, and early brain development is a key part of ensuring that is possible because it sets a foundation for a child’s future,” Britt (R-Montgomery) said. “UAB and Children’s Bookworm Day is an important initiative that shows parents just how vital it is to read to their babies from an early age.”

“I read to my kids throughout their early years, and, today, I was able to read to precious babies receiving life-saving care in the NICUs at UAB Hospital and Children’s of Alabama.”

“I am grateful to the medical professionals who are taking care of these babies day-in and day-out not just through medicine, but through initiatives like Bookworm Day. I was proud to play a small part in this program, and I hope it shows all parents they can and should incorporate reading to their babies and their kids into their everyday routines.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@senkatiebritt)

Viral Jain, M.D., assistant professor in the Division of Neonatology at UAB and Children’s of Alabama, said multiple studies have indicated that early literacy is “critical” for a child’s development.

“Many parents are not aware of the benefits of early reading, The NICU Bookworms program at UAB and Children’s of Alabama aims to enhance parent-baby bonding, increase exposure to words through books, and highlight the importance of early reading. We appreciate Sen. Britt visiting to highlight our efforts in investing in this initiative for our patients and families.”

Babies born prematurely and/or sick are at greater risk for neurodevelopmental deficits, including in language and reading. Experts believe that reading to children gives them human sound exposure which is crucial for optimal brain development.

UAB and Children’s of Alabama started the NICU Bookworms program in 2021.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

A new congressionally directed grant totaling $4.2 million will enable the City of Birmingham to purchase additional cameras and install them in high-crime areas.

According to Sen. Britt’s office, the funds will also be used by the city’s Real Time Crime Center to support local and state law enforcement officers and their ability to respond more quickly to crimes in progress or to those that recently occurred, aiding in crime prevention and the apprehension of those committing violent crimes.

Birmingham, like Montgomery, is experiencing a sharp increase in homicides in the first half of 2024. 103 homicides have been reported in the city as of August 14, 2024. Birmingham had 153 homicides in 2022, a record high. At this point in 2023, 96 homicides had been reported.

The federal funds were secured by Britt (R-Montgomery) in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, which passed the Senate and was enacted into law on March 9, 2024. The award was formally announced by the Department of Justice this week.

RELATED: Sen. Katie Britt secures over $232 million for Alabama in 2024 federal budgets

“This $4.2 million award will see Alabamians’ hard-earned taxpayer dollars return home to support local law enforcement efforts and community safety in Birmingham,” said Senator Britt. “I’m proud to have secured these funds during the 2024 Appropriations process, and I look forward to continue working on the committee to invest further into our state and communities.”

In the Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations bills, Senator Britt supported approximately $7 billion in Alabama investments and priorities. This included the $4.2 million in congressionally directed spending the City of Birmingham has been awarded this week.

After the legislation passed, the City of Birmingham celebrated the funds and voiced their appreciation for Senator Britt’s support.

“We are grateful to Senator Katie Britt for supporting our city with these funds,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin. “Every day we work to keep our community safe. We utilize every possible tool, including teaching conflict resolution in all our schools, partnering with organizations for re-entry support and developing hospital-linked violence intervention. This support of the Real Time Crime Center – where we marry innovation with traditional policing tools – will expand the eyes and reach of our officers and make for quicker response times.”

“It takes a community to fight crime and we are grateful that Senator Britt is a part of the community working to make Birmingham a safer place.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Alabama’s two U.S. Senators, Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt, are commending the state’s leadership in the forest products industry after a recent study by Jacksonville State University’s Center for Economic Development and Business Research indicated that the industry supports more than 123,000 jobs and contributes $36 billion annually to the state’s economy.

“Almost every wood product imaginable is produced in Alabama, which is proudly a national leader not just in the production of timber but of pulp and paper, too,” said U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery).

“Forestry is a pillar of our economy and of our communities, supporting 123,624 jobs across our great state. These hardworking men and women are tremendous stewards of our land—making sure we’re Alabama the Beautiful not just today but for generations to come. I’ll continue fighting to grow opportunity and prosperity for Alabama families and small businesses, including those who power the forest economy.”

According to annual surveys conducted by the Alabama Forestry Commission and U.S. Forest Service, Alabama’s forests grow 83% more volume each year than what is harvested. Based on this data, Alabama’s forests currently store carbon equivalent to the amount of carbon emissions produced in Alabama over the last 47 years.

RELATED: Alabama is the state where money does grow on trees: Forestry industry hits $36.3 billion

“Alabama’s more than 23 million acres of forestland make us a national leader in forestry contributions and environmental sustainability,” said U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn).

“Not only is forestry vital to our economy, but to our entire way of life. We are blessed to have dedicated foresters who are true conservationists – they ensure we have safe drinking water, clean air, and materials needed to build stable homes and businesses. As Alabama’s voice on the Senate AG Committee, I look forward to continuing to advocate for our foresters to ensure they can do their jobs free of burdensome government regulations.”

While ranking far above the national average for carbon storage, Alabama’s forests also provide a rich habitat for a host of plant and wildlife species. In fact, Alabama ranks fifth in the nation in biodiversity, and number one east of the Mississippi River.

“Alabama’s forest industry continues to grow while maintaining an uncompromising commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Chris Isaacson, President and CEO of the Alabama Forestry Association.

“Alabama’s healthy, sustainably managed forests are a testament to the more than 250,000 private forest owners who own and manage 93 percent of the state’s forest and to Alabama’s public officials who continue to maintain a favorable environment to own and manage land and operate businesses.”

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

Mobile Baykeeper, a coastal environmental group, praised U.S. Senator Katie Britt for her role in securing a $47 million federal appropriation for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to increase the use of dredged sediment from the Mobile Bay shipping channel for projects that benefit the coastal environments.

The Alabama Port Authority announced this week that the Corps is set to receive the additional funds thanks to Britt’s (R-Montgomery) efforts to advance key provisions through the Senate Appropriations Committee – including $47 million for operation and maintenance of the Mobile Ship Channel and a $400,000 study to analyze sediment flow.

The Corps is currently deepening the channel to 50 feet as part of a $366 million project expected to be completed early next year.

“Thank you to Senator Katie Boyd Britt and the Alabama Port Authority for advancing legislation to get the funding needed to stop federal mud dumping in Mobile Bay,” Mobile Baykeeper said on social media. “Now let’s get the Corps to agree to dispose of the dredge responsibly.”

RELATED: Alabama Port Authority: Mobile Baykeeper and ‘out-of-state activist organization’ are threatening state’s largest economic project

The group has been vocal about the potential environmental impacts of the dredging project. In their message of appreciation for Sen. Britt’s effort, the Baykeeper reiterated hope that the additional funds would enable the Corps to manage dredged sediment the way they prefer.

Despite an ongoing legal challenge against the Corps over the project’s environmental impacts, the funding is a step toward the use of dredged material for “beneficial use” projects, such as wetlands restoration and oyster habitat restoration, which can help mitigate some of the environmental risks they view as being associated with the dredging.

As the United States prepares for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission first began its work with authorization from Congress in 2016. On Tuesday, U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La) announced the appointment of Jimmy Rane to the Commission.

U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville), Val Croft and Thomas Walker, Jr. of the American Village in Montevallo, and now, Jimmy Rane of Abbeville, are among the Alabamians involved in the multi-year leadership effort. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, a native of Mobile and graduate of Auburn University, is also on the Commission, which consists of eight Congressional members and sixteen private citizens appointed by Senate and House party leaders.

According to America250, the nonpartisan initiative coordinating the nationwide celebration, “On July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.”

Jimmy Rane is a self-made billionaire from the small town of Abbeville. After earning degrees from Auburn University and Samford, Rane began a career in law before founding Great Southern Wood Preserving. He transformed a small family sawmill into a national leader in pressure-treated lumber with his iconic “YellaWood” brand.

RELATED: Forbes features ‘Yella Fella’ origin, impact on Abbeville

In the years since, his Jimmy Rane Foundation has awarded millions in college scholarships, and he’s a major benefactor of Auburn University, where he serves as a trustee. Last week, Rane was appointed to the Alabama Growth Alliance by Governor Kay Ivey, which will serve as a guiding force in the state’s reinvigorated economic development efforts.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) along with U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt and Mike Rogers (R-Saks) shared congratulations for their fellow Alabamian being appointed to serve on the commission:

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https://x.com/SenKatieBritt/status/1823412465184419885

https://x.com/RepMikeRogersAL/status/1823415274990698890

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270

Currently out for August recess, the majority of Alabama’s delegation to Washington joined state and business leaders for the Business Council of Alabama’s (BCA) annual Governmental Affairs Conference. Lawmakers offered updates and insight into a wide range of topics including the appropriations process, social media and the mental health of young Americans, creating wise regulations for name, image, and likeness (NIL) in college sports, as well as a central element to Alabama’s success in the 21st Century: Infrastructure.

In a panel moderated by Ted Hosp, Vice President of Governmental Relations for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, lawmakers were asked to share their infrastructure priorities and how the state can collaborate more closely to achieve Alabama-driven goals. 

U.S. Rep. Jerry Carl (R-Mobile) described the unique infrastructure needs of District 1 as it currently exists, particularly in Baldwin County, Alabama’s fastest growing county. He also emphasized that the enhancement of the Port of Mobile is vital to Alabama’s economy.

“We’ve got this little thing called the Bayway Bridge that we’ve had to focus on. We’re trying to improve the I-10, east and west. But then you get to Mobile, and you start looking at the port. The port is the bloodstream of Alabama — don’t ever forget that. And I told Governor Ivey, and I truly mean this. If she is remembered for nothing else in her legacy as governor, it will be for the infrastructure projects and road and bridge projects that she is supporting,” Rep. Carl said.

RELATED: Alabama officials celebrate securing $550 million for Mobile River Bridge and Bayway project

“We appreciate that. So, in Mobile, we’ve got a little bit of everything in District One—a little bit of everything. So we’re excited about what we’re seeing coming out of Washington through our appropriations projects that we’ve made some announcements on. But it’s a little bit of a different mix than probably the rest of the state.”

While much of the lawmakers’ discussion dealt with the crossroads between infrastructure and economic development, other officials also lauded the infrastructure gains in Mobile.

“You look at Mobile, Huntsville – that’s the bookends of Alabama. Mobile is ‘fixing to see something special happen, I’m telling you right now,” U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Monrovia) said.

“You look at the dredging that we caught a lot of heck for, I’m telling you right now, you look at what’s going on with national security when we need to repair a ship or a submarine – we shouldn’t have to go to Virginia to do it, or to go to California – I believe Mobile, Alabama is where it ought to be done. And we’re all going to be fighting to make that happen,” Strong said to a room full of applause. 

RELATED: Forbes: Alabama’s Port of Mobile is second fastest-growing in U.S.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt said it’s incredible that the widening of the Port should finish up by March-April, and should be commended for accomplishing the project on time and under budget.

“Our inland waterways is something that we also focus on,” Sen. Britt (R-Montgomery) said. “They use commerce. It’s part of national security. When we look at what happens in Demopolis, we’re not only looking at dredging, and what we need to be doing there, but we’re taking a look at our lock and dam system and saying, ‘How can we make sure that this doesn’t happen again? Where do we need to invest?’

“And so whether it’s Coffeeville or wherever we are, that’s also another infrastructure need, and that’s something that we value and we know our state does as well.”

U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover) celebrated the long-awaited Northern Beltline project funded through the Appalachian Development Highway System. He said there is still $9.7 billion left to be appropriated out of the system and Alabama gets 30% of that.

“It’ll take about 20 years,” Rep. Palmer said. “I’ll be ninety years old, but I’m planning to drive on it.”

“One of the things that I’ve told people about how we need to be looking at infrastructure is that we need to be looking 25 years down the road. I say this a lot: Smart people learn from their mistakes, but great people learn from other people’s mistakes. We can develop our infrastructure in such a way that will allow us to have the economic growth we want without us becoming Atlanta or Nashville, where their traffic congestion has really diminished the quality of life in those cities. If we want to do things the right way, we can grow our economy and maintain our quality of life,” Palmer said. 

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Selma) said it takes a team effort. She said the Alabama delegation meets together once a month to collaborate on how to drive key state priorities forward.

“Let me just start by saying that infrastructure is the basic foundation for economic development and growth,” Rep. Sewell said. “I have to say that I was very pleased to vote in favor of the bipartisan infrastructure bill, which actually gave $1.4 trillion – it’s a once in a lifetime investment in our future – and the last time we spent that kind of money was Eisenhower in the development of the highway system.”

“But you know, for me, when you represent the black belt, as well as Birmingham, inner city and rural, I think that my priority has been water and sewer for the black belt. It’s been broadband for my whole district. It’s in roads and bridges. And you know when I think about the fact that over the next five years, the state of Alabama will get $5 billion from that bill for roads and bridges, million dollars our port, all of that is infrastructure. All that’s critical to the development and the growth in our area.”

U.S. Reps. Robert Aderholt and Barry Moore reflected the stewardship of infrastructure dollars rely on the state lawmakers and officials who decide where to ultimately appropriate them, particularly as it relates to one-time funding mechanisms such as COVID-19 relief funds. Long before the pandemic, Alabama lawmakers centralized a focus on equipping rural parts of the state with high-speed internet.

RELATED: $53.5 million awarded for ‘Middle-Mile’ broadband service across 24 Alabama counties

“Broadband is a new infrastructure, and getting broadband to our rural parts of the state of Alabama is crucially important,” Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said. “I appreciate the work that State Legislature is doing, Speaker Ledbetter and Senator Reed, because leadership in the House and Senate, it takes a team effort. 

“But really getting those federal dollars were important. Back when I chaired the House [Agriculture Committee] subcommittee on appropriations, we started the ReConnect program and putting federal dollars into this to help with rural broadband – that has been a tremendous shot in the arm.”

U.S. Rep. Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) said that a major vulnerability in day-to-day life for some Alabamians identified during the pandemic was, while many began working from home and students learned virtually, they needed access to high-speed internet.

“I congratulate Bill Poole and certainly the Governor, investing long term that money that gets poured into the states from Covid. A lot of states went into this temporary program, but we need to invest in long-term infrastructure. We can do broadband and sewer, water, highway, because down the road, that’s going to pay dividends for the state; that allows the U.S. economy to grow.”

7. Forbes is the latest media organization to tout its love for the Yellowhammer state and the city of Huntsville calling it the “The South’s Best Kept Secret Destination” and tipping more people off to the Rocket City. Forbes touted the food, Space Camp, the outdoor activities, museums and even the Alabama Constitution Village.

6. New polls and new leader with a recent poll by the University of Massachusetts Amherst showing a significant 7-point swing in the 2024 presidential race, with 43% supporting Kamala Harris and 40% backing Donald Trump. This shift, largely influenced by young voters, blacks, Hispanics, and moderates, contrasts with previous polls where Trump led Biden 39% to 36%. This is the latest in a trend that show Harris gaining ground on Trump in multiple states and taking the lead in the popular vote.

5. A study by SmileHub has ranked Alabama as the most religious state in America, considering factors like religious interest, places of worship, educational opportunities, careers, and religiously affiliated organizations. Alabama scored highest in religious interest and places of worship, placed fifth in religious education and careers, and ranked 13th in religious organizations. Gov. Kay Ivey attributed this ranking to Alabama’s everyday values, with SmileHub evaluating 11 metrics on a 100-point scale to determine the state’s overall religiousness.

4. ISIS is apparently trying to stoke a war with the Swifties. Taylor Swift’s Vienna concerts were canceled after two men were arrested for allegedly plotting terror attacks on her shows after a large police operation led to the arrests and the discovery of several chemical substances at one suspect’s home. Barracuda Music stated that the decision to cancel was made for everyone’s safety, and all tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days.

3. U.S. Sens. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) are joining other U.S. senators and advocating against biological men competing in women’s sports by endorsing a letter to NCAA President Charlie Baker, urging policy changes to ensure fairness. The letter, led by Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), emphasizes that the core of sports is fair competition and that women deserve an even playing field and is partly in response to recent controversies in high school sports and at the Olympics, as well as the Biden administration’s changes to Title IX, which now include “gender identity” in its definition of discrimination.

2. It appears Hoover High School head football coach Drew Gilmer and defensive coordinator Adam Helms are all but sure to be terminated after having been placed on administrative leave, Hoover City Schools confirmed. State Rep. Juandalynn Givan (D-Birmingham) is now representing the “victim” in the case and says the player experienced “physical abuse, extreme humiliation” which seems a bit much as does the description of the acts as “pervasive, perverted, abusive, extreme, outrageous and beyond all possible bounds of human decency.” But the writing is on the wall here.

1. Vice president candidate Tim Walz’ clear act of stolen valor is being declared right-wing attacks but the Minnesota governor’s behavior on multiple occasions cross the line into the stolen valor category, but even CNN acknowledges this was true before downplaying the facts. Walz chose to retire from the National Guard just before his battalion’s deployment to Iraq in 2005. Thomas Behrends, who took his place, called Walz a “traitor,” then Walz misrepresented his service record multiple times in public statements, interviews, and used inaccurate information in campaign materials.

Listen here:

U.S. Sens. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) are continuing the fight against biological men competing in women’s sports.

Both senators endorsed a letter from U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) that was sent to NCAA President Charlie Baker, calling on him to make changes to the organization’s rule book when it comes to fairness in women’s sports.

“While men may have inherent athletic advantages, they have no advantage over women in their level of passion, drive, or desire to compete,” Blackburn said. “The very bedrock of sport is the exhibition of a commitment to excellence, grace under pressure, and fair play among competitors — all of which is threatened absent an even playing field.”

Men competing in women’s sports has been an issue in recent weeks because of the controversy involving male athletes boxing in the female competition at the Olympic Games in Paris.

“Women deserve that even playing field and chance to compete, one that can only be achieved by ensuring that only females compete in women’s sports,” Blackburn continued in the letter. “We urge you to follow the lead of the NAIA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport and adopt policies that protect women’s sports.”

Blackburn’s letter is also a response to the Biden administration’s change to Title IX, adding “gender identity” to the definition of discrimination.

Tuberville joined nearly two dozen senators in endorsing the letter.

“Men don’t belong in women’s sports,” Tuberville said. “It’s unsafe, it’s unfair, and it’s just plain WRONG. I’m glad to join [Marsha Blackburn] in demanding the [NCAA] update their policies to ensure that only WOMEN compete in women’s sports.”

https://x.com/SenTuberville/status/1820867782709252414

Tuberville has introduced the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which would ensure both Title IX protection for female athletes and fair, safe competition in women’s sports throughout the United States.

Britt also supported Blackburn’s effort, arguing it’s about fairness and safety.

“For fairness and for safety—only women should compete in women’s sports,” Britt said. “The NCAA must adopt policies that protect female student-athletes and ensure women’s sports continue to provide opportunity for future generations of women and girls.”

https://x.com/SenKatieBritt/status/1820902978519282072

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee

Earlier this year, U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) warned that foreign adversaries would benefit from the Biden Administration blocking new approvals of pending applications for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.

Now it appears Britt’s predication is coming true as France is importing more LNG from Russia. According to reports, shipments of Russian LNG to France more than doubled the first half of this year, while imports to EU countries overall have increased by 7%.

“Foreign customers will simply turn to other LNG suppliers across the globe, including to our primary adversaries,” Britt said in February. “This irresponsible, job-killing move will effectively weaken America’s role as the world’s leading exporter of LNG and further diminish the American energy dominance that President Biden inherited.”

RELATED: Britt promotes effort to unlock American liquefied natural gas potential

Because of Biden’s policies and tensions in the Middle East, France was importing less from other suppliers, including the United States, Angola, Cameroon, Egypt and Nigeria.

Britt attempted to reverse Biden’s LNG policy by pushing the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act, which would take away the requirement for the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) leadership to approve of it.

Britt said the bill was necessary because Biden “handed a major victory to both Vladimir Putin and far-left climate activists by pausing approvals of pending applications for U.S. LNG exports.”

The import data comes from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), a U.S. nonprofit with a goal of speeding the world’s transition to more sustainable energy, which showed that companies imported almost 4.4 billion cubic meters of Russian LNG to France in the first half of this year, compared to more than 2 billion cubic meters in the same period a year ago.

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee

On Monday, President Biden unveiled his proposal for Supreme Court reform in a Washington Post op-ed, calling for major changes to the court, including term limits for justices and an enforceable code of ethics.

“What is happening now is not normal, and it undermines the public’s confidence in the court’s decisions, including those impacting personal freedoms,” Biden wrote. “We now stand in a breach.”

President Biden’s proposed code of ethics would subject Supreme Court justices to outside enforcement, allowing for Democrat-appointed lower-court judges to investigate Justices for ethics violations. Biden is scheduled to speak at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas on Friday and is expected to argue that these changes are needed to restore Americans’ faith in the Supreme Court.

The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board alarmed the move as an “invitation for partisans to besiege the Court with complaints, however trivial.”

Alabama’s elected officials categorically denounced Biden and Harris’ desire to pack the court. On the federal level, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville accused the President and Vice President of attempting to “rewrite the rules” and Sen. Katie Britt condemned the proposal as a “radical escalation” of partisan involvement in the judiciary.  

“Disliking a few of the Supreme Court’s opinions is far from grounds to dismantle an institution foundational to our constitutional system of checks and balances,” said Britt.

“The Biden-Harris Administration has long made clear it wants to silence the voices of Justices who are faithful to the text of the Constitution and its original meaning. This week’s announcement is a long-anticipated, radical escalation by President Biden and VP Harris to end the Supreme Court’s ability to serve as an independent check on the Executive branch and Congress.”

RELATED: Op-ed: Biden’s attack on judicial independence is threat to our republic

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said that powerful Democrats “hate our constitution for getting in the way” of imposing its “ruinous” agenda.”

https://x.com/AGSteveMarshall/status/1818007808358465823

The proposal from Biden comes after the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision that granted former President Donald Trump immunity for official acts as President of the United States.

Establishing term limits and an ethics code would require congressional approval with a 60-vote threshold to overcome an inevitable filibuster. Creating a constitutional amendment would prove to be more difficult, needing two-thirds support from both chambers of Congress or a convention called by two-thirds of the states, including the approval of three-fourths of state legislatures.

President Biden is endorsing an 18-year term limit on Supreme Court Justices despite the Constitution giving them life tenure. Supreme Court Justices currently have a code of conduct that is similar to the judicial code, without a demand for partisan enforcement.

Grant Burdette is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News.

The Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) largest generating asset and the third-largest nuclear power producer in the U.S., celebrated its 50th anniversary on Thursday. On August 1, 1974, Browns Ferry Unit 1 began commercial operation, making its three reactors the first globally to produce over 1,000 megawatts of power.

Currently, Browns Ferry generates up to 3,954 MW of carbon-free energy, supplying electricity to over 2 million homes and businesses in the Tennessee Valley region. As the plant marks its half-century milestone, TVA is investing in upgrades to ensure long-term energy needs are met.

“Our continued investment in Browns Ferry is a reflection of our commitment to providing an affordable, reliable, and clean energy future,” Jeff Lyash, TVA President and CEO, said. “We believe nuclear energy will play a critical role in our region and nation’s energy future. Optimizing and extending the life of facilities like Browns Ferry will ensure that we continue to deliver affordable, reliable, and clean energy for decades to come.”

“All of TVA’s employees, both past and present, demonstrate a dedication to operational excellence, safety, environmental stewardship, emergency preparedness and embracing new technology. Without question, the employees at Browns Ferry live up to the plant’s name ‘The Pride of the Valley’ and have so much to be proud of on this 50th anniversary.”

Browns Ferry has approximately 1,500 workers onsite, comprised of TVA employees and contractor partners, and is a Top Quartile Fleet Performer in the nuclear industry.

“As we experience growth in the Valley, our customers depend on our ability to meet demand and we are continuing to invest heavily in the plant’s assets to meet this commitment,” said Daniel Komm, Browns Ferry Nuclear Site Vice President. “The complexity of our work at Browns Ferry and the value we place on safe, reliable operation requires teamwork. There are so many individuals who’ve helped us get to this point, and we have an opportunity to create a new legacy for the next 50 years.”

The Tennessee Valley Authority is the nation’s largest public power supplier, delivering energy to 10 million people across seven southeastern states. TVA was established 90 years ago to serve the region.

U.S. Senator Katie Britt also marked the milestone on Monday saying, “Unleashing American energy dominance means all forms of energy, including nuclear. Nuclear energy will help power America’s future, and I’m proud Alabama is a national leader.”

https://x.com/SenKatieBritt/status/1818687089707565336

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

The U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2025 Defense Appropriations Act on Monday, proposing to allocate $852.2 billion focused on enhancing U.S. military readiness and capabilities and supporting servicemembers and families

U.S. Senator Katie Britt, a member of the committee, announced she secured more than $6.1 billion in defense spending for the state of Alabama in the bill.

“Alabama is at the forefront of America’s defenses—building the world’s arsenal, providing invaluable intelligence, training our airmen, and so much more. When I joined the Appropriations Committee I promised I would bring home Alabamians’ hard-earned taxpayer dollars,” Britt (R-Montgomery) said.

“Today, we’re doing not only that but also making strategic investments that would make our nation safer and give our troops a deserved pay bump.”

RELATED: Mike Rogers: No U.S. servicemember should have to rely on food stamps

Britt supported funding for Alabama in the FY25 DOD Appropriations Bill, which includes:

• $1.42 billion for flight training at Fort Novosel, a $32 million dollar increase from last year
• $605 million for The Missile Defense Agency, headquartered in Huntsville
• $247 million for twelve additional Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) systems, which are built in Troy
• $77 million for Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGMs), which are built in Troy
• $825 million for Joint Air-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSMs), which are built in Troy
• $896 million for Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASMs), which are built in Troy
• $21 million for Hellfire missiles, which are built in Troy
• $284 million for Javelin missiles, which are built in Troy
• $34 million for Hydra rockets, which are built in Anniston
• $198 million in programmatic requests directly supporting the Alabama defense small business industrial base
• $1.509 billion for the overhaul and maintenance of Army Vehicles at the Anniston Army Depot (ANAD), including:

• • • $853 million to procure 45 Abrams tanks
    • $403 million for 38 Stryker vehicles
    • $256 million for Paladin Integrated Management artillery vehicles

The DOD Appropriations Bill for FY2025 also includes a 4.5% military pay raise for most service members and a 5.5% total pay raise for the most junior enlisted service members, as well as an increased budget to improve recruitment and retention.

Grayson Everett is the state and political editor for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @Grayson270.

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Alabama Governor Kay Ivey, along with state and federal dignitaries, were on hand at the National Maritime Museum (GulfQuest) on Monday to celebrate major funding for the I-10 Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project.

Joining Ivey were U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt, U.S. Senator Kay Britt (R-Montgomery), U.S. Representative Jerry Carl (R-Mobile), Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, Fairhope City Council President and Eastern Shore Metropolitan Planning Organization Chairman Jack Burrell, and other state and local officials.

A total of $550 million was provided for the $3 billion project via the Bridge Investment Program. The project is hoped to ease pressure on the Wallace Tunnel, which handles up to 75,000 vehicles daily.

“Investing in the Mobile River Bridge and Bayway project is not just good for Mobile and for Alabama, it’s good for our country,” Ivey said. “This is a critical national corridor, and it simply would not be possible without this significant national backing. Both Senator Britt and Congressman Carl were instrumental in championing this project.

RELATED: Alabama lawmakers in Washington unite to secure federal funding for I-10 Mobile River Bridge and Bayway project

“This is how dollars should be invested, and I commend our federal government for sending these dollars to Sweet Home Alabama. It’s one of the largest federal grants in our state’s history, and that’s no small thing. I am proud that we are one step closer to breaking ground for the Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project. We will continue to aggressively pursue this project because this is a top priority for our administration.”

“None of this happens without federal, regional, and state collaboration,” said Stimpson. “This gives us a shot in the arm so we can continue with the project. Probably within a 20-mile area from right here, there’s probably $10-$12 billion worth of projects that would improve the economic development of this area. I would venture to say that without the bridge, none of them would be optimized or maximize if you did not have the bridge.

“We can have the airport downtown. We can deepen and widen the channel, but the thing that pulls it together from a transportation standpoint is that we’ve got to have the bridge.”

“This is an important project for Mobile, for Alabama, and the entire country,” said Bhatt. “Transportation is one of the things we as Americans can truly come together on; it’s one of the few times that binds people together.

“I want people to understand that Alabama is getting $5 billion for roads and bridges, and there is $12.5 billion is being provided under the Bipartisan discretionary grant program, and the fact that Alabama is getting $550 million, that is a big chunk of that funding.”

Ivey said she was not sure when there would be an actual groundbreaking, but it would depend on how much more money could be raised. In addition, there will be a $2.50 toll with discounts for commuters, which Ivey said will be eliminated once the project is paid for. ALDOT is in the process of applying for a federal low-interest loan, known as a TIFIA loan. The state can borrow up to 49% of the total project cost. The repayment period for a TIFIA loan is up to 35 years, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allows up to 75 years for some projects.

“We’ve got the ball rolling, and we’re not going to stop,” she said.

Bhatt said he believed the plan was to break ground in 2025, and in a few years come back for a ribbon cutting in 2030. He stressed there were other funding efforts underway.

“The latest on the TIFIA is that they (ALDOT) is working through the bond process,” he said. “Everything so far seems to be a green light. It’s going to be also up to the state of Alabama as to how long they want to stretch out time to pay on the project.”

Other dignitaries were also happy about the $550 million giving the project a much-needed jump start.

RELATED: Alabama leaders thrilled with $550 million grant for I-10 Mobile River Bridge and Bayway Project

“I believe to the best of our ability, we got this project done the right way,” Burrell said.

“There were a lot of conversations, and the counties and the cities all coming together as one to determine what was best for all of us. Everyone was involved from the Governor on down, and we worked hand in hand to get this project moving forward. This project not only affects all of us in this room; it affects the entire I-10 corridor from Florida to California.”

“This critical infrastructure helps tens of thousands of Alabamians get to work,” said Britt. “It also provides a safe route for people to visit their families or escape severe weather. It also enables small businesses to sell their products. This investment in this infrastructure will support commerce and economy, and it will support the people who visit the great state of Alabama.”

“This is certainly been a heavy load for what you have done in this state from an infrastructure standpoint,” Carl said.

“We found a way to make things come together; we found a way to make it work and we’re here today. It’s not just about tourism, it’s about national security. When you’re trying to move tanks from Jacksonville, Florida to San Diego, California, you need to do it fast.”

Courtesy of Call News. 

After a shark attack in Florida almost took the life of a young Mountain Brook girl, U.S. Senator Katie Britt introduced a bill to protect and rescue any American in similar danger much faster.

Britt named the bill ‘Lulu’s Law’ in honor of the attack victim, Lulu Gribbin. The law would classify shark attacks as events for which Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are transmitted.

WEAs are critical notifications sent to inform first responders and the public about imminent threats to safety or essential information. These alerts are transmitted via mobile networks and can reach individuals quickly, regardless of whether they are subscribed. The inclusion of shark attacks as a trigger for WEAs, as proposed in Lulu’s Law, would enable authorities to swiftly warn beachgoers about recent shark sightings or incidents.

“Having two teenagers myself, this hits close to home. I cannot imagine what this journey has been like for Lulu or for her parents,” said Britt.

RELATED: Mountain Brook shark attack victim recovering after successful surgery – ‘Let the healing begin!’

“When Lulu woke up, she said, ‘I made it.’ This brave Alabama girl is resilient—she is a true fighter, personifying both grace and grit. I’m incredibly proud of her faith, her courage, and her strength. Lulu’s Law would empower authorities to quickly and accurately put information in the hands of beachgoers to help keep them out of harm’s way.”

“This is a commonsense measure aimed at keeping families safe – a cause that I know people can rally around, just like her local community, our great state, and the entire nation have rallied around Lulu.”

Ann Blair and Joe Gribbin, Lulu’s parents said they’re deeply grateful to Sen. Britt for introducing the legislation and called on Congress to pass the measure “for families like ours who just want to keep our children safe.”

“We are eternally grateful that Lulu survived the shark attack on June 7. Lulu is a fighter. We will get through this, and she will adapt to her new lifestyle. However, we remain in disbelief this accident occurred. This was the second attack that day in close proximity, and it could have been prevented with a better alert system. That’s why Lulu’s Law is so important.

“Thank you Katie Britt and her team for the hard work behind the scenes to get this law ready. We encourage you to call your U.S. senator to support this and help get it passed.”

Governor Kay Ivey called Britt’s legislation a “common sense measure.”

https://x.com/GovernorKayIvey/status/1818338185019347051

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten

The opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympics in Paris is igniting widespread outrage over drag-queen themed portrayals of religious and historical figures, including a unsettling parody of Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” painting, which depicts the last meal Jesus had with his apostles.

https://x.com/BowesChay/status/1816982460519055494

Viewers quickly recognized the portrayal with drag queens as an intentional mockery of Christianity. Prominent figures like Elon Musk and U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) criticized the “shocking and insulting” performance sanctioned by the Olympics. U.S. Senator Katie Britt condemned it as a deliberate act to insult Christians.

“This was an intentional choice to mock Christianity and Christians. It’s disgraceful. And it’s the same kind of bizarre craziness that’s being pushed on children and teenagers across America. We need to turn our eyes back to God and restore common sense,” Sen. Britt (R-Montgomery) wrote.

https://x.com/KatieBrittforAL/status/1816971828813803849

Sen. Britt called on presumptive Democratic Presidential nominee Kamala Harris to condemn the grotesque imitation and the message it sent to audiences. “America is at a crossroads. There are two very different paths. Craziness vs. common sense,” Britt said. “We all know which road the most liberal presidential nominee in history would drive us down.”

Wife of President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, who led the U.S. delegation to the Olympics this year, said the ceremony was “spectacular.”

“Every step of the way, I was thinking to myself, oh my god, oh my god,” Biden said. “How are we going to top this?”

Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP and hear him every weekday morning from 6 to 9 a.m. on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5, available free online.