Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 7th of May.
Good morning, Mobile.
Esquire magazine won its first Pulitzer Prize for its article 'A Death in Alabama' that told the story of Bubba Copeland, a 49-year-old pastor and mayor from Smith Station who died by suicide on Nov.
3 after a right-wing website revealed his secret digital life (it published photos showing him in women's clothing).
Emergency managers in Baldwin and Mobile counties are preparing for hurricane season — and they worry that red tape in federal aid, as seen in Arkansas, may stretch local budgets if a storm hits.
Officials say they will work closely with state partners to secure support — even if counties must cover some recovery costs.
Starting today, drivers in Alabama must have a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card (also known as a STAR ID) to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings.
TSA confirmed there will be no further delays, so travelers without the updated documents must use another TSA-approved form of identification.
The Spanish Fort Public Library Board approved amended policies on Monday to protect minors by moving sexually explicit materials from the children’s and young adult sections to the adult collection—shifting the young adult section from ages 14 to 18 to ages 18 to 25 and setting strict guidelines for material selection. City attorney David Conner explained that the changes aim to balance community standards with access to diverse viewpoints, while some citizens voiced concerns about censorship.
Gov. Kay Ivey signed the state’s nearly $14 billion General Fund and Education Trust Fund budgets for the fiscal year starting Oct 1, with over $2 billion in supplemental appropriations still pending her signature.
The budgets include increases for education programs, additional support for the Port of Mobile, and funding cuts across several agencies + they adjust spending plans to reflect current revenue trends + and aim to support key state initiatives.
ALDOT announced on May 6 that Kiewit Massman Traylor’s team has begun testing concrete foundation piles for the new Mobile River Bridge and Bayway—covering six sites with work scheduled from May through August.
The testing will not affect traffic on Interstate 10 as the project moves toward final funding and construction plans.
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.
2025 Project Homeless Connect
8 AM – 2 PM — The Grounds — Free services available — A day to connect those experiencing homelessness with vital resources and services in the community.
Port City Pacers 5K Race
7:30-11:00 a.m. — Medal of Honor Park — Registration fees apply — Participate in a fun and challenging 5K cross-country race benefiting local scholarships.
Import Face-Off Car Show
11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Mobile International Speedway — $20, kids 10 and under free — Gear up for exciting car competitions, drifting, and more at this vibrant car show.
May Spring/Summer Market in the Park
7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Cathedral Square — Free entry — Discover fresh produce and artisanal goods from local vendors while enjoying live entertainment in the park.
Brandon Styles Magic Show
7-8 p.m. — OWA Parks & Resort — Fun and engaging entertainment — Experience a delightful mix of magic and humor that'll leave you amazed and laughing.
Food Truck Festival
4-8 p.m. — Mobile Museum of Art — Free entry — Indulge in diverse local flavors from the area's best food trucks while surrounded by art and community spirit.
2025 Ballin' On The Bay Showcase Basketball Tournament
4 p.m. — Mobile Convention Center — Tickets $25-$65 — Witness over 100 youth basketball teams from the Gulf Coast compete for glory.
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