Good morning, Mobile.

Candidate Christina Woerner McInnis said her family lived in fear after a man sent threatening online messages when she announced her candidacy in June and Clate Lee Clark, Jr. was found guilty and sentenced to 90 days in jail on July 23—local officials urge lawmakers to toughen harassment laws.

Mobile County Sheriff's Office reported that on August 25th in Chickasaw, deputies responded to a possible fentanyl overdose and found Kailin Laporte dead, leading to the arrest of Payton Beason—accused of selling the drug—and Tyler Thompson, who drove her to the scene; Beason faces charges including manslaughter while Thompson was released on bond.

Federal felony charges were filed against former Mobile Mardi Gras queen Kelley Williamson for bank fraud and identity theft after she allegedly stole $1.8 million from Crowder Gulf—she was offered a plea agreement on August 14 that could result in up to 30 years in prison and requires restitution of nearly $1.87 million.

The Fort Mims Restoration Association will host its annual reenactment and living history weekend on Saturday, Aug.

30 and Sunday, Aug. 31 to honor the 212th anniversary of the 1813 massacre with battle reenactments, crafts, and concessions. The opening ceremony is set for 9 a.m. on Saturday and visitors can join free boat tours of the Alabama River Delta offered by Blakeley Park (reservations required).

Former Sen. Richard Shelby attended Spring Hill College's groundbreaking yesterday that honored his late wife by naming the new $35M Health and Science Innovation Center after her—this three-story, 55,000-square-foot building will boost nursing and pre-med programs and is set to open early in 2027 with additional funding from the city and Mobile County.

Alabama fourth graders improved their reading scores—exceeding pre-COVID levels—after schools resumed in-person classes earlier this year, though the state still ranks low nationally for reading and math.

Educators face crowded classrooms and potential federal budget cuts that could reduce school resources.

House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter announced on Wednesday that State Rep. Troy Stubbs was named vice chairman of the House Committee on County and Municipal Government—he replaces former Rep. Debbie Wood.

Stubbs, who served as an Elmore County Commissioner, said he is honored to support local governments as counties grow and evolve.

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall joined 21 state attorneys general last week to urge the DEA to add bromazolam—an unregulated synthetic benzodiazepine linked to deaths nationwide—to the controlled substances list, a move he said would strengthen law enforcement efforts against drug trafficking.

The state of Alabama will appeal a federal judge's order that requires lawmakers to redraw the State Senate map for the upcoming election.

State officials said an appeal will be filed this week and if needed, a special session may be called in late September or early October—to establish a new map.

An Evening with Pastor Shirley Caesar

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Mobile — Ticket details available — Experience the uplifting performance of the Queen of Gospel.

Emerald Coast Beer Festival

5:30 p.m. — Seville Quarter — Cost not specified — Sample a variety of craft beers from Iron Hand Brewing at this local festival.

Free First Sunday at the History Museum of Mobile & Colonial Fort Conde

1-5 p.m. — History Museum of Mobile — Free admission — Enjoy a day at the museum and explore local history for free on the first Sunday of each month.

Comedy Open Mic Night

6:30-7 p.m. — Lucky Irish Pub & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a cozy evening of laughter with local comedians showcasing their talents.

G&D Farms Outdoor Expo

Noon-8 p.m. & 10 a.m.-8 p.m. & 10 a.m.-4 p.m. — The Grounds — $10 adults, $4 youth (10-17), kids free — Explore outdoor gear and enjoy archery competitions and local vendors.

Mobile Babypalooza Baby Expo

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Mobile Convention Center — Free entry — A fun-filled day connecting expectant parents with essential resources and community support.

After School Program Week 7

3-6 p.m. — Hot Wheels Skate Center — Cost included — Enjoy transportation from school, snack, homework assistance, and various fun activities.

Annual Meeting and Environmental Stewardship Awards

5:30-8:30 p.m. — The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa — Free for PEP members — Celebrate 25 years of environmental achievements and stewardship.

Pure Prairie League Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Mobile — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of timeless Americana and soulful New Orleans funk with Pure Prairie League.

South Alabama Comic Con

10 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Mobile Convention Center — Tickets from $29.08 to $45.30 — Experience a weekend of comics, cosplay, and gaming with special guests and panels.