SUMMARY: Members of Mobile-based refugee charity Dwell are working to sustain services amid major federal funding cuts after the Trump administration suspended the U.S. refugee resettlement program. The group lost one grant and anticipates losing another from the Department of Health and Human Services, which made up about 80% of their funding. Despite expected service reductions, Dwell remains committed to helping refugees legally resettled in the U.S., highlighting their resilience and need for safety. To raise funds, they held a rummage sale and are seeking city approval to open a thrift store, aiming to continue supporting the refugee community locally.

Members of Dwell Mobile are trying to find other funding sources as federal funds dry up

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SUMMARY: The city of Athens has received a state grant to address longstanding flooding issues on Strain Road, a historically Black neighborhood plagued by outdated sewer infrastructure. Homeowners have struggled for years as flooding damaged their homes while new developments expanded nearby. Funding delays stalled necessary upgrades, but a recent $60 million grant from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management will enable crucial repairs. The city approved $4 million for preliminary design work, signaling progress. While the news brings relief, residents like Kirk Parker remain frustrated by the permanent damage they endured. City officials express eagerness to begin repairs and resolve the problem.

Relief may be on the way for homeowners after complaining for years that infrastructure issues have been ignored by city officials.

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SUMMARY: Starting June 1, new Alabama laws will take effect statewide and locally. Statewide, stricter rules ban the sale of tobacco, vaping products, e-liquids, and alternative nicotine products via vending machines. Retailers must obtain a license and pay a fee to sell these items. The REACH Act introduces a nontraditional high school diploma through Alabama’s Community College adult education program. Locally, Shelby County can now impose an extra motor vehicle license and registration fee. Calhoun County gains authority to regulate halfway houses and similar facilities. Additionally, Juneteenth is officially recognized as a state holiday, following Governor Ivey’s bill.

These new Alabama laws take effect on June 1

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