Good morning, Mobile.

Nippon Steel finalized its $14.9 billion merger with U.S. Steel and will invest about $11 billion in domestic upgrades over the next three years — Alabama may receive up to $500 million for tubular upgrades while other facilities in Pennsylvania, Indiana, Arkansas, and Minnesota are also set for improvements.

Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch vowed to make Prichard safer after a rise in gang-related violence, and he said local officials may call on the MACS Unit — which has served 952 arrest warrants, seized 256 firearms and recovered 65 stolen vehicles since its formation in 2024 — for help when needed.

A Honduran national illegally in the United States was charged with felony assault of a federal officer in Foley on Monday—he punched an agent in the face while resisting detention during an immigration enforcement operation.

The Mobile Co. Sheriff's Office arrested Kerry Robbins for a June 8 shooting at 922 First Avenue in Prichard—he was taken into custody on June 17 after his vehicle was located on Virginia and Broad Street—and he is now in Metro Jail.

New research from Pew and GoBankingRates shows that the income needed to be middle class varies widely by state, with Alabama households needing between $39,739 and $119,218 and states like Maryland+New Jersey requiring nearly $100,000.

The analysis also finds that some states set lower thresholds near $50,000 while others have much higher benchmarks.

The University of South Alabama was named one of the Best Global Universities by US News and World Report after a ranking checked 13 factors such as research performance plus reputation.

The ranking placed USA among 280 U.S. schools out of nearly 4,000 and honored the work of its faculty and staff.

Alabama is closing state offices today to mark the first official observance of Juneteenth after Gov. Kay Ivey signed House Bill 165 on May 8.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Bobby Singleton and Rep. Rick Rehm, passed in both chambers with strong bipartisan support—establishing Juneteenth as a permanent state holiday.

ALGOP chairman John Wahl said he is thinking about running for lieutenant governor in 2026 and will step down if he runs—he emailed his committee to ask for their support as he makes his decision.

Daphne City Councilman Steve Olen announced his re-election bid for the District 2 seat on June 11 and pointed to his five-year term achievements such as opening a new animal shelter and planning park improvements—like an upcoming amphitheater at Bayfront Park.

He also cited investments in public safety and development as reasons to continue his work if re-elected—emphasizing a strong future for his district.

Second Annual Mobile Bay Street Rod Nationals

5-10 p.m. — The Grounds — Check website for entry details — Celebrate classic cars with enthusiasts from across the U.S. and Canada.

Killer Beaz's Outrageously Funny Clean Comedy Show

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Revive Church — Proceeds benefit Ryan's Refuge — Experience the legendary clean comedy of Killer Beaz in Mobile, Alabama.

Open House Event

2-4 p.m. — 6209 Waterbridge Ave — Free entry — Explore the best neighborhoods in Mobile during this open house event showcasing local charm.

68th Annual Distinguished Young Women National Finals Community Night

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Mobile — Free entry — Experience a showcase of local talent and get a preview of the National Finals shows.

Distinguished Young Women National Finals

7-10 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Mobile — Ticket prices vary — Witness the talent and grace of young women from across the nation competing in this prestigious event.

The 2025 General Assembly of The Church Of The Living God International

8 p.m. — Mobile Convention Center — Cost info not provided — Experience ten days of worship, fellowship, and spiritual renewal at this dynamic assembly.

Half Day Meditation Retreat with Monk Choo

8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Meditation Center of Alabama — Donation-based — Experience tranquility and self-discovery through guided meditation with skilled instructors.

24-Hour Polaris Slingshot Adventure

24 hours — Continental Battery Sales & Service — Rental Fee — Explore Mobile in a thrilling Polaris Slingshot with a customized itinerary.

Fourth of July Celebration

6-9:30 p.m. — USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with live music, games, and a dazzling fireworks display.

The Bigger & Better Summer Bash

11 PM – 4 AM — 351 St Francis St, Mobile, AL — Paid venue parking — Get ready for a night filled with music, food, games, and fun at the ultimate summer party.