Good morning, Mobile.

Dream Center of Baldwin County began breaking ground this week on a new community facility in Foley and will host a public ceremony on April 25th at 11 a.m. at 18460 Underwood Road; the center, founded in 2021 to support children and families facing hardship, said the building will include classrooms, counseling spaces, a full kitchen and more (completion is expected by early 2026).

Tanya Jackson, a Mobile woman whose remains were first found nearly 30 years ago, was identified as a victim in the Gilgo Beach murders after the Nassau Police Department linked her case to an ongoing investigation involving suspect Rex Heuermann.

The Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival will take place at OWA Parks and Resort from May 1-3—featuring over 50 hot air balloons, live music, and family activities like a K9 frisbee dog show.

Organized by the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, the festival promises a full weekend of entertainment with weather-dependent balloon flights planned around sunrise and sunset.

Sam Crosby has worked to honor Stephen Boykin, who established a school for African American children in Bay Minette and published the American Banner for Black readers—his research led to a marker dedication at the Douglasville School Museum.

Copies of The American Banner are now held in local archives and highlighted in museum displays that celebrate Boykin’s lasting impact on education and local business.

ALEC released its 18th annual Rich States, Poor States report that ranks Alabama in the nation’s top 20 for economic outlook due to strong in-migration, low property taxes and a right-to-work environment.

State Rep. DuBose and ALEC’s Josh Meyer said that if Alabama wants to stay competitive with neighbors—Florida and Texas—income tax reform will be needed.

The City of Mobile will host a free hazardous waste collection event on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the James Seals Community Center — allowing Mobile residents with valid zip codes to safely dispose of items such as aerosols, automotive fluids, batteries, and paint while excluding appliances and electronics.

Mobile City Council learned on Tuesday that an extra $486,000 is needed to install 130 surveillance cameras in the nearly complete 1,025-space parking garage, which was estimated at $30 million before rising to $39 million in October 2023.

The cameras are expected to be installed next month as council members call for more transparent spending amid recent public safety concerns.

Pharoahs Mobile Alabama Chapter Cruise-In

3-6 p.m. — Piggly Wiggly University — Free entry — Bring your cruiser and compete for the Best Cruiser trophy while enjoying the community atmosphere.

Gov't Mule Concert

10 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Mobile — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the soulful sounds of Gov't Mule live on stage.

Basic Orientation Plus Training

8:00 AM – 1:30 PM — TVTC Safety Training Centers — Members $45, Non-members $65 — Get the essential OSHA training every employee needs to stay safe on the job.

Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival

4-10 p.m. — OWA Parks & Resort — Family-friendly activities — Experience the vibrant spectacle of colorful hot air balloons along with games and crafts for kids.

Mix & Mingle with Junior League Mobile

6-8 p.m. — Greer's St. Louis Market — Free entry — Engage with community volunteers and learn how to make a positive impact in Mobile.

Little Flower Vaccine Clinic

9-11 a.m. — Little Flower School — Affordable vaccines for pets — Get your furry friends vaccinated with low-cost services and support local animal welfare.

32nd Annual First Light Community of Mobile Football Preview

6-8:30 p.m. — Mitchell Center — $70 per person — Celebrate local football and support community sports at this annual preview event.

Dave Matthews Tribute Band

8-11 p.m. — The Merry Widow — Presale $20/ Day of Show $25 — Enjoy a night filled with the spirited sounds of the Dave Matthews Tribute Band.

12th Annual Gulf Coast Showdown AAU Basketball Tournament

Multiple sessions — Mobile Convention Center — Admission fees may apply — Watch over 130 youth teams compete in an exciting three-day basketball tournament.

Mobile Sunrise Pickleball Event

2 PM – 2 AM — 4101 Wimbledon Dr W, Mobile, AL — Check local listings for fees — Join the pickleball community in Mobile for lessons, courts, and tournaments.