Good morning, Mobile.

U.S. Navy Adm. Daryl Caudle toured Austal USA in Mobile as he previewed a modular shipbuilding method that builds large ship sections off site.

The yard is investing in new facilities that will speed up Navy vessel production and boost local jobs.

Francesca’s, a popular women’s chain, is closing nationwide as it liquidates inventory and offers clearance pricing online; nine Alabama stores (including a Mobile location) will close soon.

Gulf Shores High School student Ty Pitman was named runner-up in the 2025 Congressional App Challenge for Alabama's 1st Congressional District; his Unity-based fishing game impressed judges (Jamie's praise from his computer science teacher underscored his dedication).

PenAir Credit Union announced its 2026 scholarship program for local graduating high school seniors, including those pursuing technical & vocational education.

Applications are accepted online through March 25.

Governor Kay Ivey signed an executive order on Friday to let qualified families join the new federal education freedom tax credit program, which will start in January 2027, with the state department certifying eligible scholarship organizations.

Mobile's City Council will review a plan to finish the long-awaited Riverwalk connecting the museum — Cooper Riverside Park and a hotel-retail site on the waterfront.

The project, funded by a $4-million GOMESA grant, advances to design and construction while park improvements reopen this spring.

Presumptive gubernatorial candidates Doug Jones and Tommy Tuberville will speak in Mobile next week— the event will offer local voters a chance to hear their plans for the governor's race and learn how they intend to reach community members.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali, a survivor of female genital mutilation, urged Alabama lawmakers to pass a law that criminalizes FGM to protect at-risk girls — especially in Jefferson and Madison Counties where a study by her foundation shows 36% of the region’s at-risk population lives; she calls for clear legal action to shield children from harm.

At 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan.

20, Mobile leaders including Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis and District 1 Councilman Cory Penn will break ground on Fred Marshall Court (a new 50-unit affordable housing project replacing the former St. Mary’s Orphanage) at 4350 Moffett Road. The development will provide townhouses for low-to-moderate-income families as part of the city’s broader housing initiative.

Two Gulf Shores defensive assistants have moved on to Power 4 roles after their time with the Dolphins.

Eric McDaniel will join Florida as an assistant defensive line coach while Jaylen Swain takes a similar role at West Virginia (head coach Mark Hudspeth credits the hires’ quality).

Robertsdale High hosted the Battle of the Gulf air rifle match on the weekend of Jan.

9, drawing 159 students from 20 schools in a regional JROTC competition. The event (featuring both Sporter and Precision Class matches) sets the stage for later contests in Anniston and Helena.

What's Up Wednesdays

4-5 p.m. — Ben May Main Library — Free entry — Surprise yourself with fun weekly activities like arts and crafts in the Youth Programming Room.

8th Annual King Cake-Off

5-7:30 p.m. — Mobile Convention Center — General admission tickets go on sale Nov. 28 — Enjoy sweet competition, live music, and endless King Cake tastings while supporting a great cause.

Teen Dungeons and Dragons Adventure

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Monte L. Moorer/Spring Hill Branch — Registration recommended — Roll dice and create epic heroes in a thrilling D&D adventure tailored for teens.

Good Listener's Storytime

10:00 – 10:30 AM — Parkway Branch - Mobile Public Library — Registration required — Engage young minds with stories, rhymes, games, and crafts designed for ages 3 to 7.

Doc Rock 2026

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Soul Kitchen Music Hall — $25 — Enjoy a lively battle of the bands featuring USA Health affiliates and support critical clinical needs.

Michael Glatzmaier: Musical Comedy

7-10 p.m. — Crescent Theater — Check for ticket prices — Experience laughter with songs created live as Michael Glatzmaier blends music and comedy in an improvised performance.

Ghost Fleet Cruise

10 AM – 12 PM — Historic Blakeley State Park — Ticket purchase required — Explore the historic Tensaw River and uncover the mysterious site of the legendary Ghost Fleet.

Chess Club at West Regional Library

2-5 p.m. — West Regional Library — Free entry — All ages welcome to learn and improve chess skills in a friendly environment.

LEGO Fun Tuesday at Semmes

4-5 p.m. — Semmes Regional Library — Free entry — Use your creativity to master exciting LEGO building challenges.

Good Listener's Storytime

10:00 – 10:30 AM — Parkway Branch - Mobile Public Library — Registration required — Inspire your child's passion for reading with stories, rhymes, games, and crafts.