Good morning, Auburn.

AL.com reporters earned national awards for their 2024 work covering Alabama's prisons, sports and business.

Their reporting led to changes in parole practices and won honors for both investigative and sports coverage (highlighting the impact of local journalism).

Pelican’s Snoballs held its official grand opening on March 22 in Opelika with a bouncy house, a balloon display, free color-changing cups for the first 50 customers, and giveaways including a grand prize of $50 Pelican Bucks.

The shop—owned by Terry and Kathy Allen—is open seasonally from Feb 1 to Oct 31 at 1401 Second Ave and offers over 100 soft, fluffy snoball flavors along with outdoor games like corn hole and Connect Four.

AU-NCKU Taiwan Center of Language and Culture will host its third Taiwan Night on Friday, March 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Foy Hall rooms 208 and 209, and the event will offer free food, games, prizes + boba tea courtesy of Kung Fu Tea to recreate a traditional Taiwanese night market experience.

On March 22, the Indian Student Association at Auburn University hosted a Holi celebration on the Campus Green where about 300 participants enjoyed games, a traditional meal, and a fun throw of colored powder.

The event was planned with care for safety and a designated spot for kids, and it provided rides for international students (since Tiger Transit does not run on weekends).

Auburn has named Matt Cain as the new fire chief — he will start on April 1 as current chief John Lankford retires on March 31.

Cain, who began with the department as a student in 2006, has held nearly every position including battalion chief and EMS officer.

Auburn City Council approved a $500,000 contribution to build a new roundabout at Society Hill Road and Moores Mill Road to ease heavy traffic.

Mayor Ron Anders said the project was prioritized — many county residents come into Auburn daily for work and shopping.

On March 20, Auburn High School girls and boys soccer teams faced Central High in Phenix City— the Lady Tigers won 10-0 while the boys secured a 3-2 win with a last-second goal.

Auburn women’s basketball named Larry Vickers as its new head coach following his press conference on March 24th — he drew on his success at Norfolk State to promise a focus on winning championships and developing players both on the court and in the classroom.

Book It For Drake 5K and Fun Run

The Book It for Drake event is a 5K and Fun Run to support Drake Middle School, taking place at Town Creek Park.

On-Site Tour of Holiday Monarch Estates

Explore the features and amenities of Holiday Monarch Estates, a senior living community known for its exceptional care and service.

Vet Fest 2025

9 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine — Free entry — Explore fascinating veterinary exhibits and activities including a canine parade and teddy bear surgery.

D1 Life 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run

8-9:30 a.m. — Town Creek Park — Registration fee applies — Participate in a community run honoring the legacy of a beloved local student.