Auburn
Morning News
Wednesday, March 18th, 2026
Good morning, Auburn. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Auburn mourned Maj. John Alex Klinner — a 33-year-old native of Auburn High and Auburn University — after his KC-135 aircraft crashed on March 12 in Iraq during a military mission; he left behind his wife Libby and three young children. The Observer
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ BOXCAR, a volunteer-run microcinema in Opelika, offers free movie screenings and live events throughout the week — a nonprofit space built on local passion. Launched in February, it partners with local sponsors to keep films accessible for everyone. The Observer
- ➤ Still Point Clay Atelier is hosting an open house Saturday, March 21 from 1 to 5 p.m. at 1775 Opelika Rd., Suite 4 where locals can explore clay through beginner classes and private events; memberships will roll out in fall. The Observer
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Lee County Schools reported stable finances through January but warned that state funding for campus security may shrink gradually, with CFO Ken Roberts noting the district stayed within a 1% budget overage. The board also recognized 14 support staff + approved policy updates and a new textbook review process. The Observer
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Alabama USA Semiquincentennial Commission announced that 34 counties will receive Princeton Elm trees 6 to 8 ft tall with a commemorative plaque plus counties will choose sites for planting this summer to honor America’s 250th anniversary. WAKA
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ A-O Tourism launched the Mocktail Trail to showcase unique alcohol-free drink options at local bars and eateries. The self-guided tour invites residents and visitors to explore creative mocktails (many featuring seasonal specials) and support local businesses. The Observer
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Auburn coach Bruce Pearl shared his passion for March Madness music during a CBS/Turner media session as he prepares to join the 2026 NCAA tournament broadcast team. He recalled a memorable moment dancing to 'One Shining Moment' at his daughter’s wedding (a highlight of his storied career). AL.com
- ➤ Auburn defeated Georgia Tech by a score of 9 to 2 at Plainsman Park on Wednesday, March 18 as the Tigers extended their winning streak with strong batting & pitching; they will face No. 2 Texas in a three game series starting Friday evening. The Auburn Plainsman
- ➤ After winning the Champions Cup last June, the Auburn University power soccer team played in a tournament in Fort Wayne and finished 2-1-1. The team will head to Fishers on May 2-3 to face more top teams. The Observer
- ➤ Smiths Station High School girls and boys soccer teams won over Opelika on March 10. Haley Ciccarello scored key goals to lead a 3 to 0 win for the girls while Cameron Wood’s hat trick helped the boys win 3 to 2 + coaches praised their teams’ composure. The Observer
- ➤ Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl discussed the added pressure on high-major teams in postseason play during a Tuesday media conference + his son Steven Pearl is set to lead the Tigers against South Alabama at 9 p.m. on ESPN2 in the first round. AL.com
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Alpha Chi Omega 5k for Domestic Violence Awareness
8:30 a.m. — Cater Lawn — Registration required — Participate in a spirited 5k race to support domestic violence awareness and education.
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Texas Longhorns vs. Auburn Tigers Baseball
2-3 p.m. — Plainsman Park — Look forward to a thrilling collegiate baseball showdown as the Longhorns take on the Tigers.
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Martin Woods Wine Dinner
6:30-10:30 p.m. — Acre — $150 per guest — Enjoy a six-course meal featuring seasonal dishes paired with exquisite Martin Woods wines.
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Lance Cowan at Opelika Songwriters Festival
7-11 p.m. — Opelika Songwriters Festival — Cost details not specified — Experience a night of soulful songwriting in the heart of historic downtown Opelika.
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Test Track 5K Run
8:00–10:00 a.m. — NCAT Test Track — Registration required — Experience a unique 5K at a prestigious test facility with a scenic route.
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Kentucky Wildcats at Auburn Tigers Baseball
6-7 p.m. — Plainsman Park — Check out a thrilling college baseball match featuring the Tigers and Wildcats.
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Monday After the Masters 2026
9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. — Moore's Mill Club — Participation supports local cancer initiatives — Enjoy a premier golf tournament benefiting families facing illnesses.
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Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet
Evening event — Auburn Oaks Farm — Fundraiser — Celebrate conservation efforts while enjoying good company and food.
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