Friday, May 22nd, 2026
Good morning, Decatur. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 22nd of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Animal shelters across North Alabama report busy intakes as stray animals and owner surrenders increase due to financial struggles and housing limits. Local shelters urge community members to donate, foster & volunteer to help care for pets as numbers are expected to rise further. WAAY-TV
- ➤ City officials confirmed a set completion date and targeted opening time for the new recreation center at Wilson Morgan Park. The project is designed to provide local residents with a modern community facility. Decatur Daily
- ➤ Morgan County is planning a celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary on July 2 at the Courthouse lawn. The event will feature festive activities to mark this historical milestone for the community. Decatur Daily
- ➤ Madison County Parks and Recreation said that the Sharon Johnston Park pool in New Market will not open for Memorial Day weekend due to circumstances beyond their control + they plan to work with a construction company to set a new, safe opening date. WAAY-TV
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Allegiant Air launched a nonstop flight from Huntsville to Gulf Shores yesterday with one-way fares from $40 — the service operates up to twice weekly to give North Alabama travelers a direct route to the state's beaches. Rocket City Now
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Alabama Jubilee Hot Air Balloon Classic, held every Memorial Day weekend (since 1978), may postpone flights as forecasted rain could reduce lift and visibility, prompting pilots to cancel rides for safety reasons. Rocket City Now
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Athens-Limestone Hospital now uses remote technology that lets radiology teams consult with cardiac specialists in real time (reducing MRI wait times from months to one to two weeks) for patients with pacemakers and defibrillators. WAAY-TV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Hartselle clinched its second consecutive state championship with a 2-1 win over Spain Park on Thursday, reinforcing the Tigers' legacy in high school sports. Rocket City Now
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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.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
It is better to travel well than to arrive.
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Reveal the authorAbout Decatur Morning News
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