Decatur
Morning News
Thursday, May 21st, 2026
Good morning, Decatur. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Decatur earned national praise as U.S. News & World Report ranked it No. 3 among best places to live in Alabama and No. 60 nationally for 2026-27. The evaluation focused on quality of life, job market and value, reinforcing the city's growing economy and vibrant community. Decatur Chamber of Commerce
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ State law enforcement and the Coast Guard Auxiliary warn boaters to inspect safety equipment and wear life jackets as Memorial Day weekend nears—two drownings occurred on local waterways, including a toddler in Morgan County and a young man on Lake Guntersville. Rocket City Now
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ An Alabama Center for the Arts building in Decatur was named the Arthur Orr Performing Arts Center on Tuesday to honor longtime state legislator Sen. Arthur Orr (R-Decatur). Decatur Daily
- ➤ Decatur is set for its 49th Alabama Jubilee where over 50 multicolored hot air balloons—each seven stories tall and weighing 600 pounds—will fill the sky if weather permits. Residents can look forward to a vibrant local celebration. Decatur Daily
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Morgan County Schools reported a record $1 million in scholarship awards — a 14.9% increase over last year — to boost opportunities for local students. The new award level underscores the school system's focus on academic achievement. Decatur Daily
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Gov. Ivey honored six Alabama companies for their international trade success at Wednesday's Trade Excellence Awards in Montgomery. The event recognized exporters from sectors such as aerospace and agriculture for boosting the state's global reach with reported exports of $23.7 billion. WAAY-TV
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2026 Rock the South Festival
12:00 a.m. — The Fields at Decatur — Ticket prices vary — Experience the biggest party in the South over three exciting days of music and festivities.
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Mobile Food Pantry Distribution
7:30-10 a.m. — Austin Junior High School — Free entry — Offering fresh produce and dry goods to anyone in need, no questions asked.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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Reveal the authorAbout Decatur Morning News
Welcome to the Decatur Morning News, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Decatur, Alabama community. If you like the Decatur Morning News, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Decatur.
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