Good morning, Mobile.

Two local restaurants are hosting a free back-to-school bash today at 318 Azalea Road from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Families can enjoy free food, supplies, games & services designed to support a smooth return to school.

Linnea Tyree said her Goldendoodle, Olive, went missing from her yard on May 29 and was scanned at Little Flower Catholic Church on June 6; when she arrived to reclaim him, he had already left with someone — she now seeks answers and faces legal charges.

On Thursday afternoon, emergency responders rescued 22 beachgoers from dangerous rip currents along the Fort Morgan coast & transported six to the hospital amid continued warnings for visitors to stay on shore.

BASF will stop several production lines at its McIntosh facility by spring + lay off nearly 80 workers as it cuts costs amid market pressures, while operations in Theodore and Huntsville remain unchanged.

TSA agents discovered five historic cannonballs in a passenger's bag at Gulf Shores International Airport on July 18, prompting the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office to return the inert items to Fort Morgan — officials said the traveler was unaware they were historic.

Flora-Bama announced longtime co-owner Pat McClellan passed away peacefully in his sleep Wednesday evening.

The venue will share details for a future celebration of his life as it plans to mark its 62nd birthday on Aug. 1.

Crews are restoring the Middle Bay Lighthouse on Mobile Bay with a ($1.2 million) project that started four months ago.

They will repair the roof, deck and other features to preserve the 1885 landmark, with work expected to finish in 90 days if weather cooperates.

Two Baldwin County students were selected for the 2026-27 Alfa Foundation Scholarship Program and will each receive $1,000 to support tuition, fees, books or supplies at their colleges in Alabama.

Marissa Anderson of Bay Minette and Cooper Long of Fairhope earned the honor.

University of South Alabama climbed several spots in the U.S. News and World Report 2026 Best Colleges rankings released July 24 (seven Alabama schools trended upward), reflecting its growing academic reputation in Mobile.

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.