Good morning, Mobile.

In Fairhope, only 20 infant childcare spots are available, and STARS Early Learning Academy's eight filled places highlight a rising shortage as Baldwin County's booming growth forces families to face extended waitlists & longer commutes for care.

More than 60 volunteers gathered for an orientation at the Orange Beach Wildlife and Rehabilitation Center and the dog trot area became crowded (not enough chairs) as staff trained helpers on routine tasks and animal care to support its growing wildlife program.

Governor's office funding of $9 million in GoMESA funds moved the first phase of Brookley by the Bay park forward, with design complete for trails, play areas, a water play area, pavilions and 150 parking spaces.

Officials plan to bid the project later this year pending a final funding deal.

The 39th Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup will take place on Saturday, Sept.

19 from 8:00 a.m. to noon across 33 zones in Mobile, Baldwin, and Escambia counties. Coordinated by ADCNR and ALPALS, the event will provide cleaning supplies (trash grabbers, bags, gloves) and collect debris data to support environmental research.

USA Today recognized The Grand Hotel as No. 2 on Best Historic Hotel + Resorts and No. 3 on Best Waterfront Hotel + Resorts; the awards mark its eighth year on the historic list and fourth for waterfront hotels at the Fairhope property.

Coastal Alabama Community College’s nursing program was named a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence for 2026 (one of only 20 nationwide) for its innovative, student-focused teaching and strong clinical partnerships that help prepare skilled nurses for local care.

The Mobile County Public School System is seeking emergency approval to repair Murphy High School’s library and computer lab, temporarily closed due to termite damage — the school board will review plans on Aug.

24.

City officials announced that Brookley by the Bay will move forward with a $9M state award and $5M local contribution.

Phase one includes trails + play areas, a water feature, pavilions and 150 parking spaces, with bids expected later this year.

Spanish Fort edged out Daphne 18-15 in the 14th-annual California Dreaming Bowl on Thursday evening.

Senior quarterback Jaylyn 'JJ' Thibodeaux led the winning drive and the team meets Foley Friday, Aug. 28.

Senior linebacker Dallion Blake will honor his late father during Snook Christian's football season opener today at Collegiate Christian in Gulfport; he vows to play with extra determination as teammates and coaches stand behind him.

The Crimson Tide will soon choose their starting QB (Austin Mack or Keelon Russell) as they gear up for the College Football Playoff.

Coach Kalen DeBoer aims to boost the team’s passing with top receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams and improve the run game for upcoming matchups.

University of West Florida Athletics announced that 20-year-old football player Ben Conken died on Aug.

17 after a battle with cancer. A Cottage Hill Christian Academy alum, he played football and other sports for the Argonauts and was remembered for his quiet kindness.