Good morning, Mobile.

Sen. Katie Britt invited a devoted World Cup fan from Germany to return this fall for a University of Alabama football game, following his nearly 50 day visit during which he enjoyed local stops like Fairhope.

A popular food website selected two and a half top seafood spots among 9 Gulf Coast picks and praised Zeke’s Restaurant in Orange Beach, The Gulf, and the border-hugging Flora-Bama Lounge (a favorite among locals) for their vibrant flavors and views.

Residents raised concerns at a Tuesday meeting at Government Plaza about the planned Beacon Data Centers project, asking for binding oversight.

Utility officials said the $6 to $8 billion data center will not strain local services and is set to break ground later this year in northern Mobile County (bringing significant revenue).

On Monday, July 27, in Birmingham, former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones criticized Tuberville for backing data center projects that he said risk turning Alabama into a dumping ground for billionaires & proposed a one-year pause on development to review water and environmental rules.

87 West will open in August at 212 Fairhope Ave after receiving its liquor license from the Fairhope City Council; the cocktail bar, run by the Pirtle sisters and a local tech entrepreneur, will offer a curated drink menu, snacks, and a gaming area with Xbox + PlayStation consoles.

A commentary draws creative parallels between Alabama football figures and characters from Homer's Odyssey, with Nick Saban described as the clever strategist Odysseus & Kalen DeBoer cast as the promising Telemachus as fans reflect on the Crimson Tide's storied legacy.

Mary G. Montgomery head coach Alex Page remains optimistic that a playoff ban may be lifted as officials meet with representatives today in Montgomery (the meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m.).

The Vikings will open their season Aug. 21 at home against Saraland.

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.