Good morning, Auburn.

A Montgomery man, Mardrekus Ja Quan Lee, 23, was charged with murder and first-degree robbery for fatally shooting 33-year-old Jecorey Purifoy during a car theft on Feb.

15 on Golf Club Drive—police said the victim later died at Baptist Medical Center South on March 26 and that Lee was arrested on unrelated charges on May 2 and is held without bond.

Former Opelika mayoral candidate Herman Grady Barnes III was arrested on a perjury charge Thursday for alleged election irregularities in the municipal election and was released after posting a $1,000 bond—according to District Attorney Jessica Ventiere.

Award-winning actress Octavia Spencer will serve as grand marshal for Auburn University’s Homecoming Parade today.

The Montgomery native and alumna returns to lead the celebration after being honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020.

Oscar winning alum Octavia Spencer will serve as grand marshal for Auburn University's homecoming parade on Sept.

12—she graduated in 1994 and has long supported the school, as seen in pictures with mascot Aubie. The parade will start at 6 p.m. and is part of a weekend of planned homecoming events.

On Aug. 28, Lee County Literacy Coalition hosted the Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee at 21 Acres in light rain to boost awareness of adult literacy in Lee County.

Teams of two competed and Southern Union State Community College’s duo won by bonus points—promoting LCLC’s tutoring programs—and drawing support from local businesses.

Auburn beat Baylor 38-24 Friday night in Waco, Texas as transfer quarterback Jackson Arnold rushed for 137 yards and scored two touchdowns +Rayshawn Pleasant returned a 98‐yard kickoff+; the team will play Ball State on Sept.

6.

Week 1 high school football games were played on August 28 and 29, and scores were reported by Action 8.

Austin beat Decatur 47-6 and Vestavia Hills beat Auburn 42-14 (among many others) as schools across classes posted their results.

Dusty Slay Stand-Up Comedy Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Nashville's own Dusty Slay, featured on Netflix and late-night television.

2025 Auburn Tigers Football Season Tickets

12:55 – 3:55 PM — Jordan-Hare Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Secure your season tickets for all home games and support the Auburn Tigers.

Chewacla Cha Cha Trail Race

8 a.m. — Chewacla State Park — Registration fees apply — Run through scenic trails in a delightful 5K or tackle the challenge of two loops for 10K.