Story perspectives

Alabama launches birding festival, Urban League expansion; captain divorces

5/9/2026

Center

Alabama Officials Launch Initiatives

Deadliest Catch captain Jake Anderson disclosed his divorce after 13 years of marriage during the season-22 premiere, citing work commitments.
Alabama officials announced a suite of initiatives that include road funding, a birding festival, and nonprofit expansion across the state.
Alabama Audubon scheduled the sixth Black Belt Birding Festival for July 31–August 2, featuring 30 events.
The Urban League of Alabama announced expansion into Montgomery, with a kickoff meeting scheduled for May 8.

Right

Ivey Grants Roadwork

Blue Rebuild Alabama signs now appear on roads in all 67 Alabama counties, indicating statewide road and bridge work.
Governor Kay Ivey awarded $7.6 million in state grants for 26 local road projects across Alabama.
The 2026 Annual Grant Program will provide $15 million, $5 million above the Rebuild Alabama Act minimum.
Cities and counties contributed $1.9 million matching funds, requiring projects to start construction within a year.

History

Historical Context

The Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on June 29 1956, created a $25 billion Highway Trust Fund that paid 90 % of interstate construction costs. The program spurred massive road building in the South, including Alabama’s expansion of the interstate network, and today Governor Kay Ivey’s Rebuild Alabama Act continues that legacy by funding local road improvements.

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Alabama Officials Launch Initiatives

Deadliest Catch captain Jake Anderson disclosed his divorce after 13 years of marriage during the season-22 premiere, citing work commitments.
Alabama officials announced a suite of initiatives that include road funding, a birding festival, and nonprofit expansion across the state.
Alabama Audubon scheduled the sixth Black Belt Birding Festival for July 31–August 2, featuring 30 events.
The Urban League of Alabama announced expansion into Montgomery, with a kickoff meeting scheduled for May 8.

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