Good morning, Mobile.

The Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail at Gulf State Park is nominated for Best Recreational Trail by USA TODAY as votes are open online until Monday, Apr.

6 (ending at 10:59 a.m. CST), and the 29-mile trail offers varied outdoor activities through nine ecosystems.

Safari and Vine is set to open this week at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo in Gulf Shores—run by Rich and Pam Lee who also manage Portabella's in Foley.

The restaurant will feature a global-inspired menu and a wide drink selection with outdoor dining options.

Mobile officials will run a safety PSA online today to remind drivers & pedestrians to use caution at rail crossings after six fatal collisions on the Mardi Gras Service, which has served over 70,000 riders in its first six months.

Mobile Animal Services is tracking increased coyote sightings as warm weather and breeding season spur more activity, and Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis advises residents to secure pet food and report sightings via 311 (the department will target aggressive coyotes that approach humans or pets).

Researchers at Dauphin Island Sea Lab and the Alabama Marine Mammal Stranding Network are highlighting dolphin roles in Mobile Bay and Perdido Bay during Dolphin Awareness Month by using photo identification to track local bottlenose dolphins.

Boaters are urged to turn off engines and report sick dolphins (1-877-WHALE-HELP).

The documentary 'Sallie's Ashes' about local environmentalist Sarah 'Sallie' Smith (a 39-minute film) won the Eric Moe Award for Best Short on Sustainability at the 2026 DCEFF in Washington, D.C.

It spotlights efforts to remove coal ash from Plant Barry and protect the Mobile-Tensaw Delta.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Navy awarded a $15.38 billion contract to General Dynamics Electric Boat for Columbia-class submarines, with Mobile’s Austal USA set to produce 2% of the work in a new module facility under a separate $450 million deal — work is expected to continue through June 2035.

Sen. Greg Albritton from Atmore introduced two bills today that aim to regulate solar farm development by setting a one-year pause on new projects and giving coastal county commissions local oversight near Stockton.

The measures come as residents express concerns over environmental impacts near the Mobile-Tensaw Delta.

On Tuesday, South Alabama rallied for a 6-3 win against Alabama when the Jaguars scored four runs in the seventh inning; Alabama's pitchers struggled with control after taking an early lead.

Somnia: A Film by Josie and Mitchell Robinson

6-10 p.m. — Crescent Theater — Tickets starting at $20.51 — Explore the surreal journey of a daughter reconnecting with her mother in dreams.

Antique Bottle Show

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Daphne Civic Center — Sales table application available — Discover unique antique bottles and connect with fellow collectors.

Mahjong Tournament for a Cause

1-5:30 p.m. — Country Club of Mobile — $400 for a table of four or $200 for a table of two — Test your skills in American mahjong while supporting a great cause.

ASCEND HBCU Technology Conference 2026

7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. — Bishop State Community College — Free entry — A two-day conference uniting tech leaders, HBCUs, and students for meaningful learning and networking opportunities.

The Magic Flute

7:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. — The Temple Downtown — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting blend of comedy and mysticism in Mozart's timeless opera.

3rd Annual Pickleball Tournament

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — PickleRage — Registration open — Drop, dink, and donate at this fun-filled community tournament benefiting Light of the Village.

Cinderella - Mobile Ballet

2-5 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Mobile — $25-$69 — Experience a magical interpretation of Cinderella featuring captivating dance and enchanting fairytale elements.

Open Mic Comedy Night

7-10 p.m. — Lucky Irish Pub & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter with local comedians showcasing their talent.

Cliff Cash Standup Comedy Show

7-11 p.m. — Crescent Theater — Entry fee required — Enjoy an evening of laughs with the nationally touring comic Cliff Cash.

Mobile County Community Baby Shower

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Bayou La Batre Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate new beginnings with free baby items, workshops, and refreshments at this community event.