Good morning, Mobile.

Today the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo marks five years at its new home despite challenges like COVID-19 and Hurricane Sally.

The zoo will host events on March 25 and March 29—one with a tortoise storytime and feedings and the other a Wine and Whiskey Stroll—to celebrate its anniversary and support future improvements.

When driving on University Boulevard near the University of South Alabama campus, motorists saw tall grey structures behind trees and fencing—these will soon be converted into elevator shafts for the new Fredrick P.

Whiddon College of Medicine, marking a significant campus growth effort.

Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson praised Gov. Ivey and the Legislature for signing a law that bans Glock switches that turn semi-automatic guns into fully automatic ones — a measure that went into effect immediately to help local police hold offenders accountable.

The Alabama House passed a bill to end state sales tax on diapers + baby formula, menstrual hygiene products, and other items that will save taxpayers an estimated $13 million a year.

The bill now moves to the Senate for further action.

Representative Shane Stringer (R-Citronelle) filed HB 473 to remove boards’ power to close public water bodies after last month's closure of Big Creek Lake restricted boating and fishing; the bill aims to keep these waters open for public recreation.

Alabama legislators approved two childcare tax credits to help licensed childcare providers + employers support working parents with expenses for children under 6.

The application reservation opened March 1 and funds totaling $82.5 million will be distributed over three tax years with caps of $15 million for employers and $5 million for facilities.

APLS paused funding to Fairhope Public Library on Thursday after Rebecca Watson of Moms for Liberty presented excerpts from books with graphic content in the teen section—five of six board members voted to pause funding—and the library must meet state guidelines for funding to be reinstated.

The Alabama Department of Public Health said an unvaccinated child traveling through the state tested positive for measles and is investigating potential exposure sites (detailed travel stops were not disclosed).

Health officials urge residents to keep current on their MMR vaccine (300 measles cases have been confirmed in western Texas) to help prevent further spread.

An unvaccinated child traveling through Alabama earlier this month tested positive for measles and the Alabama Department of Public Health is investigating possible exposure sites—experts stress that staying up to date with the MMR vaccine is key for protection.

Pharaohs Mobile Alabama Chapter Cruise-In Event

This monthly cruise-in features a trophy award for the Best Cruiser at Piggly Wiggly in Mobile.

Experience the Historic SS United States

3:00-4:30 p.m. | Perdido Queen Dinner Cruises and Events | Ticket required | Witness the iconic SS United States and hear stories of its legendary past from the water.

Mobile Harbor Cruise Featuring SS United States

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Historic Blakeley State Park — Cost info not specified — Experience a two-hour journey through the bustling Port of Mobile aboard the historic SS United States.

Live Music in the Park

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Historic Blakeley State Park — Check for food availability — Enjoy soulful Folk and Americana tunes by Kalyn Muller in a beautiful park setting.

SS United States Water Tour

3-4:30 p.m. | Perdido Queen Dinner Cruises and Events | Ticket required | Experience a guided tour of the historic SS United States from the water, learning its remarkable story and legacy.

Saints Run 5K and Fun Run

2-4 p.m. — St. Paul's Episcopal School — Registration required — Participate in a certified 5K or 1-mile fun run to support the Chad Saucier Memorial Scholarship Fund.

G.L.A.M. Leadership and Etiquette Event

12-2 p.m. — Fuse Project — Register now — A transformative experience for young girls to step into their power and embrace their inner queen!

Oyster Revel

1-4 p.m. — Fort Condé Inn — Ages 21+ — An unforgettable afternoon of merriment with local chefs showcasing Mobile Bay's favorite oysters.

20th Artys Awards

6-9 p.m. — Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel — $65 ($75 at the door) — Celebrate local artists and performances at Mobile's premier arts award show.

LODA ArtWalk Celebrates National Pet Day

6-9 p.m. — Downtown Mobile Alliance — Free entry — Celebrate National Pet Day with local artisans, activities, and a pet photo station.