State News
Saturday, April 18, 2026 · Marion County
Montgomery Events Ignite Tourism Boom at Coliseum, Autism Walk
Major happenings at Garrett Coliseum and the upcoming Autism Walk are set to supercharge Montgomery's economy, drawing crowds from across Alabama. With the city's tourism already surging amid record statewide numbers, these events promise packed hotels, bustling restaurants and a vital lift for local businesses. Officials eye doubled impact in the Heart of Dixie.
Montgomery's Ivy Foundation Gears Up for Annual Fundraising Push
The Ivy Foundation of Montgomery is ramping up its community support efforts with upcoming fundraising events designed to expand local initiatives. The organization partners with community groups to host signature galas and programs that have become hallmarks of Montgomery's nonprofit landscape.
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Montgomery's Garrett Coliseum Gears Up for Rodeo Thrills, Wrestling and More
Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery is primed for a packed spring with high-octane rodeos and family-friendly spectacles drawing crowds from across Alabama. From the Southeastern Rodeo Production to extreme wrestling, sports fans have prime action ahead. Tickets are moving fast for these Coliseum staples.
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Magic Johnson to Inspire Tuscaloosa Grads at Stillman Commencement
NBA legend Earvin 'Magic' Johnson will deliver the commencement address at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa on May 9, rallying the Class of 2026 with lessons on leadership and legacy. The basketball icon's visit to the historic HBCU promises to electrify graduates and the community alike. College leaders hailed the announcement as a call to 'walk boldly' into the future.
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Mountain Brook Girl, 8, Killed in Texas Camp Floods
Eight-year-old Sarah Marsh of Mountain Brook, Alabama, perished in catastrophic flash floods that ripped through a Texas girls' camp, leaving her family and community in mourning. The death toll has climbed to at least 82 statewide, with rescuers still hunting for 41 missing amid ongoing dangers. As searches continue in Texas Hill Country, Alabama grieves one of its own swept away in the night.
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Montgomery Steps Up for Autism Acceptance Walk Saturday
Hundreds expected to lace up sneakers at Auburn University at Montgomery on April 18 for the Emerson Smith Autism Walk, spotlighting Autism Acceptance Month. Hosted by Autism Support of Alabama, the event unites the River Region to fund vital programs for the state's 1 in 36 children on the spectrum. Families, teams and advocates will rally to solve autism's puzzle one step at a time.
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Magic Johnson Set to Inspire Tuscaloosa Grads at Stillman Commencement
NBA icon Earvin 'Magic' Johnson will deliver the commencement address at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa on May 9, 2026. The Hall of Famer's message of leadership, purpose and legacy promises to electrify the Class of 2026 as they step into their futures. 'This one's for you,' the college announced.
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Alabama Schools Surge in Reading, Math Under Mackey Leadership
Alabama public schools notched gains in reading proficiency across every grade and showed math recovery strides in 2024-25 testing, State Superintendent Eric Mackey announced. From a record 92% graduation rate to top national rankings in key areas, the state is rewriting its education story. But challenges linger in middle school math and growing English learner needs.
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Ivey Signs Overtime Tax Break into Law for Alabama Workers
Governor Kay Ivey has signed a bill delivering tax relief to overtime workers and suspending the state grocery tax for two months. Hardworking Alabamians stand to save up to $1,000 on overtime pay taxes through 2028. The measure rewards labor in factories, farms and families across the state.
Saturday, April 18, 2026