Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Mercedes-Benz said it will build a new vehicle in Tuscaloosa County starting in 2027 to meet U.S. buyer needs—local lawmakers praised the plan as a boost for the state’s auto industry.

Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama warns that children in central Alabama are at risk from harmful chemicals linked to illegal drug activities—residents are urged to report any suspicious behavior to help hold those responsible accountable.

Talladega College held its commencement ceremony Sunday when award-winning actress S.

Epatha Merkerson delivered a message to the class of 2025 and received the Doctor of Humane Letters Honorary Degree. In return, she gifted the college $1 million to recognize its long legacy.

TCS superintendent Mike Daria and the TCSS mental health coordinator explained that teachers face added challenges in the classroom due to student mental health issues — they stressed the need for more support and clear steps to help both staff and students.

Stillman College will host its spring graduation on May 10 at 9 a.m. at Stillman Stadium—over 100 graduates from the class of 2025 will be honored and the class of 1975 will receive special recognition.

Melonie D. Parker, Google’s vice president of employee engagement, will speak at the ceremony.

Alabama Red Cross is asking local residents to schedule blood donation appointments as summer approaches while fewer donors are available—this may lead to shortages at hospitals when outdoor accidents increase.

The organization supplies blood to at least 85 hospitals and needs all blood types, with O and platelet donors being especially important.

After sweeping Missouri, Alabama baseball traveled to Nashville and lost the three-game series to Vanderbilt; the Tide dropped Game 1 12-2, won Game 2 5-2, and fell 9-7 in Game 3—giving up a late run that sealed the loss.

Redshirt sophomore Riley Quick had a career day with nine strikeouts, but late scoring by Vanderbilt turned the series in their favor.

No. 14 Alabama Softball ended its regular season with a 2 to 1 series loss to No. 12 South Carolina on Saturday—winning Game 1 13 to 1 then losing Game 2 3 to 1 and Game 3 7 to 2 due to weather—and will now enter the Southeastern Conference tournament tomorrow against in-state rival Auburn.

2025 Alabama Ducks Unlimited State Convention

4 PM - 10 PM — Hotel Capstone — Free entry — Celebrate conservation with fellow enthusiasts at the Alabama DU State Convention.

Georgia Bulldogs vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Baseball

1 PM — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Check ticket prices — A thrilling college baseball matchup featuring top-tier teams in the SEC.

Adam Hood Concert

7-11:59 p.m. — Government Plaza — Tickets required — Enjoy a soulful evening of country and American roots music from Adam Hood.

Live at The Plaza Concert Series

6-9 p.m. — Government Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy free live local music in a family-friendly atmosphere with fun activities for the kids.

Interviewing Skills Workshop

1-2 p.m. — Goodwill Store & Donation Center — Free entry — Prepare for success with tips and strategies to ace your next interview.

A+ College Ready Leadership Institute 2025

3:30 AM - 10:30 AM — Bryant Conference Center — Registration required — Equip and empower educators to foster innovation in Alabama schools.