Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of May.
Good morning, Auburn.
The rose-breasted grosbeak has been seen at local bird feeders and woods since April as it migrates north to breed, and experts say its bright red patch and sweet song signal the change of the season.
Birdwatchers in Auburn watch for the bird before it leaves for summer.
Gov. Kay Ivey signed a bill on May 15 that sets new rules for hemp products by capping THC in edibles at 10mg per serving, banning smokable hemp items, and requiring stores to be licensed with buyers at least 21.
Some small business owners and conservative groups warned the law could hurt local operations — both had urged a veto.
The Lee County Sheriff's Office held a Peace Officers Memorial Day service — a tribute to fallen officers — at Opelika Public Library on May 15 to honor the county's heroes.
Chewacla State Park offers visitors outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and swimming for an active day in nature.
The park also provides additional recreational opportunities for families seeking to enjoy the outdoors.
Auburn coach Bruce Pearl said Tahaad Pettiford may return for his sophomore season if he does not secure a first-round NBA contract after scoring 23 points and eight assists at the combine.
Pettiford, who declared for the NBA Draft but kept his college eligibility until May 28, would be the only returning scholarship player from last season—and his upcoming decision will shape the team’s next steps.
Chad Baker-Mazara transferred from Auburn to USC for his final year after entering the transfer portal, and Auburn coach Bruce Pearl praised his play that helped win an SEC tournament championship, SEC regular season title and a trip to the Final Four during his two years at Auburn. He averaged 12.3 points per game.
The Auburn Tigers Men's Golf Team won their third straight regional championship at the Auburn University Club by a margin of 27 shots (the second largest win in NCAA regional history), earning a spot in the 2025 NCAA Championships.
They will compete at the Omni LaCosta Champions Course in Carlsbad (May 23–28) to defend their title.
Former Alabama star Sarah Ashlee Barker, who scored 45 points in her final Crimson Tide game on March 24, will make her WNBA debut with the Los Angeles Sparks when they face the Golden State Valkyries Friday night at Chase Center — she said the team’s support eased her shift to the pro game.
Coach Bruce Pearl said at Jimmy Rane’s charity banquet that Auburn’s basketball team is being rebuilt with six transfers and three recruits, and he is looking to add players like Tahaad Pettiford while adjusting to having nearly an all-new roster.
He said the team will improve over the season — the challenge of having little offseason makes every practice count.
Turf Wars Auburn
1-5 p.m. — Wire Road Soccer Complex — Free entry — Experience an exciting sports event during Memorial Day weekend in Auburn with Turf Wars.
On-Site Tour of Auburn Assisted Living
9 AM – 7 PM — Auburn Assisted Living — Free entry — Explore the best senior living community with exceptional care, dining, and activities.
Lunar Parque + Brotha Josh Concert
8:30 p.m. – 2:30 a.m. — John Emerald Distilling Company — Ticket info TBA — Enjoy a night of funky rhythms and smooth neo-soul vibes from two Alabama bands.
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