SUMMARY: The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) recently completed setting the final steel girders for the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge in Gulf Shores, marking a major milestone in the $52 million project slated to open by summer 2026. The bridge will add two lanes in each direction alongside the existing Beach Express Bridge, increasing total lanes from seven to ten and easing congestion. With the steel and substructure complete, work now focuses on the concrete deck and approaches. This new span, along with the $30 million SR-161 connector and plans to widen SR-180, aims to enhance traffic flow, emergency access, evacuation routes, and local economic growth.

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SUMMARY: In this segment, Drexel Gilbert reflects on the role of social media influencers, often promoting products or destinations. Instead of following the typical influencer path, Drexel suggests a new kind of influence—one focused on positive actions and character. Drawing on the definition of an influencer as someone who inspires others, and referencing 1 Timothy 4:12, she encourages being examples of honesty, generosity, encouragement, and kindness. Drexel urges everyone to become influencers for good by embodying positive traits and making a difference in others’ lives. She hopes her message inspires viewers to spread goodwill every day.

Ways to influence people to be better and do better

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SUMMARY: Amtrak returned to Mobile, Alabama, after 20 years with its Mardi Gras Service from New Orleans, sparking a festive celebration on Water Street. Amtrak President Rodger Harris highlighted the decade-long effort to restore passenger rail on the Gulf Coast, praising the enthusiastic community response. The train offers Coach and Business class seats, traveling about 79 mph with four stops in Mississippi, completing the trip in roughly four hours. Tickets start at $15 one way. Congressman Shamori Figures expressed hopes for service expansion and federal support to ensure its success. Commercial passenger service begins Monday, reconnecting communities along the Gulf Coast.

A homecoming 20 years in the making, as city and state leaders gathered in downtown Mobile Saturday to welcome Amtrak’s special arrival.

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