Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Tuscaloosa. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ 92.9 WTUG and Mary K. will broadcast live at Julio Jones Kia this Saturday, May 23, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event features free hot dogs, vehicle discounts, and a giveaway for a Panama City Beach getaway (at 4301 Greensboro Ave, Tuscaloosa). Tuscaloosa Thread
- ➤ The Junior League of Tuscaloosa wrapped up its 2025-2026 season at a recent May meeting by honoring 210 members with awards and community milestones, including a $20,000 commitment to its centennial partner and record fundraising for the Northport Bunny Trail. Tuscaloosa Thread
- ➤ ADCNR will close the Riverview Boat Ramp from Tuesday, May 26 through Friday, June 5 to install a new access pier as part of ongoing upgrades (located behind the Bluff at Waterworks Landing apartments), so boaters should plan to use alternate ramps. Tuscaloosa Thread
- ➤ Starting Tuesday, June 2, Tuscaloosa Farmers Market will host themed Tuesday markets at Tuscaloosa River Market (Jack Warner Parkway) from 3 to 7 p.m. into July, featuring events like Tomato Sandwich Day, Peach Party, and free blueberry bingo with vendors charging for their goods. Tuscaloosa Thread
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Nana Funks announced its closure today; the local business will end operations soon (exact closing details are pending). WBRC
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Lesley Reid, who has served as interim provost since Nov. 2025, is named the full-time chief academic officer at UA today, and UA President Peter Mohler said her new role will boost academic mentoring and faculty leadership on campus. AL.com
- ➤ Hundreds of top high school seniors will gather at the University of Alabama campus for Boys State (May 24-30) and Girls State (May 31-June 5) as part of a weeklong civic education camp run by the American Legion. The events will teach leadership and government. Tuscaloosa Thread
- ➤ The University of Alabama announced Lesley Reid will serve as its provost starting Tuesday. Having served as interim provost since November 2025 — she will work with the executive team to boost student success and improve cross-campus collaboration. The Crimson White
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Alabama’s baseball team revamped practices to use game-like reps—recording an error-free weekend against Ole Miss—and will face Florida today at 7:00 p.m. in Hoover. Tuscaloosa Thread
- ➤ Alabama football will have a new leading rusher in 2026 as returning backs like Daniel Hill and Kevin Riley join newcomers such as EJ Crowell, who expert Nick Kelly predicts will break out after Jam Miller’s 504-yard season in 2025. AL.com
- ➤ Alabama baseball players used a mirrored disco helmet after home runs during 2026 as a nod to a tradition started in 2023 — a moment that turns the dugout into a lively celebration for the Crimson Tide. The Tuscaloosa News
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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