SUMMARY: Starting June 2025, Alabama has implemented several new laws signed by Governor Kay Ivey. The grocery tax was reduced from 3% to 2%, easing the cost of everyday shopping. The RAISE Act changes school funding to focus more on students with special needs and low-income backgrounds, aiming to improve education equity. Representative Barbara Drummond’s legislation now requires tobacco sellers to obtain licenses and mandates student education on the dangers of nicotine, targeting youth health. Additionally, a new law allows the Alabama Farmers Federation to offer healthcare plans to its members, expanding access to coverage. These laws emphasize financial relief, education reform, and public health.

With her signature, Gov. Kay Ivey changed the way schools are funded in Alabama and created some new regulations.

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SUMMARY: Charges have been upgraded to capital murder against Marcus Sanders, accused in the Saenger Theatre shooting in Mobile that killed Carl, a man attending a children’s dance recital with his daughter. Mobile County District Attorney Keith Blackwood announced the change, which could lead to the death penalty or life imprisonment if convicted. Blackwood cited the reckless endangerment of children present during the shooting as the reason for the harsher charge. Sanders’ attorney, Chase Dearman, plans to argue the shooting was justified and emphasized prior conflicts involving Sanders and the victim. Authorities continue investigating the circumstances behind their argument.

The man accused of shooting and killing another man at the Saenger Theatre is now charged with capital murder.

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SUMMARY: The 7th Annual Africatown Bridge Challenge, a 5K run/walk over the Cochran Africatown Bridge, takes place this Saturday, June 7th. It’s a major fundraiser for the Africatown Community Development Corporation, supporting home repairs, tackling blight, and maintaining community facilities and equipment. The event also funds youth programs like summer camps focused on mentoring, etiquette, and tutoring. Participants enjoy stunning views of the Mobile River, unique to crossing on foot. Inspired by a community walker, Miss Singleton, the race encourages fitness and community spirit. Morning registration is available from 6 to 7:15 a.m. The event fosters support and unity within Africatown.

Thelma Owens – Africatown Community Development Corporation.

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