Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Christ Episcopal Church will host its fifth free community worship event on Wednesday, April 22 at 6 p.m. at The Venue — live music by The Locals will blend faith with classic rock to create a welcoming space for everyone.

Lake Lurleen State Park reopens today after a $15 million renovation funded by a statewide referendum approved nearly four years ago; workers finished last-minute improvements Tuesday, including upgrades to campsites, sewer lines and Wi-Fi.

A ribbon cutting is scheduled for Friday morning.

Tuscaloosa’s River Market will host its first Strawberry Fest on Tuesday, Apr.

21 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the market, featuring live music and local vendors — including strawberry farms and specialty food providers — along with family-friendly activities.

Farm experts warn that rising food prices are expected as drought dries much of Alabama — 77% is affected — and a global conflict drives up fertilizer costs, with Tuscaloosa farms included in USDA disaster areas.

Alabama AAA reported that regular gas is near $4 per gallon in urban areas like Mobile, Tuscaloosa, and Madison counties — showing these regions catching up as some rural areas still pay more.

The Alabama Forestry Commission has issued a statewide fire alert due to drought and low humidity, with hundreds of wildfires burning thousands of acres.

Outdoor burning is restricted until Monday, Apr. 20 + officials urge residents to follow local burn rules to reduce fire risks.

Governor Ivey signed the 'Let the Kids Play!' Act on Tuesday to protect student athletes under the CHOOSE Act from being denied athletic eligibility (law effective immediately), giving them a way to challenge such decisions.

Central Alabama Water said it met state law by submitting a system-wide notice on March 12, countering the City of Birmingham’s challenge over removing fluoride.

The utility argued that restarting fluoridation would cost at least $3.74 million (and take 315 days), and urged the court to dismiss further relief.

The Legislature passed Beau’s Law on April 14 and now sent it to Governor Ivey to set clear statewide rules for pet care — including proper shelter, food and water to align local and state standards.

The law will increase penalties for repeat neglect cases.

Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer said the rebuilt offensive line showed promise on A-Day scrimmage but needs more work before the season starts Sept.

5. The lineup has been tested with 11 new players and a new coach (Adrian Klemm), and adjustments continue during practice.

Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer said transfer receiver Noah Rogers will miss the start of the season due to an injury sustained at the spring game.

The N.C. State transfer is expected to return later & other receivers will have bigger roles.

Kentucky Wildcats vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Softball

6:59-10:59 p.m. — Rhoads Stadium — Check event host for latest details — Come cheer on the Alabama softball team as they face off against Kentucky in a thrilling SEC matchup.

Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Alabama Crimson Tide

6-7 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Watch college baseball as the Commodores take on the Crimson Tide in a thrilling match.

Alabama vs. Ole Miss Baseball Game

6-7 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Great community event — Experience an exciting baseball showdown between the Crimson Tide and the Rebels.