Good morning, Mobile.

The Baldwin Co. Special Needs Resource Fair will expand its vendor lineup and debut a showcase for neurodivergent artists at PZK Hall on July 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A speed social follows at 2:30 p.m. for $10 per participant (includes one ticket for a support person).

Novelis is transitioning its $5B Bay Minette project to active operations with the advanced aluminum plant launching by the end of this year to add 600 permanent jobs (building on 400 hires already made) and boost local supplier opportunities.

Mobile County Emergency Management donated a birthing simulator (valued at over $5,000) to the University of South Alabama EMS program on Tuesday, July 14 to train students for emergency childbirth calls in the field.

Mobile County EMA donated a maternal and neonatal birthing simulator to the University of South Alabama EMS program to help first responders practice emergency childbirth in the field (valued at over $5,000) and improve rural training.

On Monday, EPA announced a proposal to approve Alabama’s coal ash permitting program that lets the state manage pond closures near the Mobile-Tensaw Delta.

Public comments are welcomed until Sept. 14, and a virtual hearing (9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CDT on Sept. 3) will be held.

Kitti Cooper explains that nitrogen-fixing plants work with soil bacteria (as seen in legumes and cover crops) to convert air nitrogen into nutrients for healthier gardens.

Mobile gardeners can use these natural methods to reduce chemical fertilizers and build more resilient soil.

At Orange Beach’s school board meeting on July 9, attorney Nash Campbell presented Alabama Supreme Court rulings on governance (he explained that councilman Robert Stuart overstepped by sending emails) to support the board’s autonomy during new member onboarding.

The Alabama Community College System and APOSTC announced a new program that lets criminal justice students serve as volunteer reserve officers while earning their associate degree.

Unveiled at the State House on Tuesday, the pathway will lead to full certification after basic training.

Maurice 'Mo' Mitchell is recovering from a serious car crash on June 30 that claimed his friend and teacher; his family has launched the #WALKFORMO campaign & GoFundMe to rally support through walks, photos, and donations at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta.

Elberta's head football coach, Joel Williams, built the program from 28 players in 2025 to 70 varsity players and 150 overall, using experienced seniors & young underclassmen to form a foundation for the upcoming season.

The Warriors will compete in a competitive Class 5A region.

The ranking of top high school football prospects from AL.com was published today in its third installment, covering players ranked 30 through 21.

Highlights include local talent such as Braylen Averett (Central-Phenix City), Trey Kyles (Daphne) and Stafford Willis (Arab) as they prepare for the 2026 season.

Unlock Alabama Builder Celebration

9 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. — Innovation Portal — RSVP required — Celebrate innovation and creativity with workshops, networking, and a showcase of local builders' projects.

Weirdo Record Wednesdays

6-9 p.m. — Alabama Music Box — Free entry — Dive into vinyl vibes with local DJs and special guest appearances each week.

Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Festival

Three nights — The Temple Downtown — Ticket information not specified — A vibrant celebration of music, poetry, and culture in Downtown Mobile.

Culture Fest 2026 Vendors

1-5 p.m. — Africatown Heritage House — Free entry — Celebrate community and culture with engaging activities at this vibrant fest.

Weirdo Record Wednesdays

6-9 p.m. — Alabama Music Box — Free entry — Enjoy a night of vinyl records with DJ Hot Lobster and DJ RyJohn spinning tracks.

Books & Plant Bingo Night

7-9 p.m. — Oyster City Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy a night of bingo with books and plants, perfect for bookworms and plant lovers alike.

Huncho Fest Summer Bash

3-7 p.m. — Mardi Gras Park — Free entry — An afternoon filled with live performances, DJs, comedy, vendors, and more fun.