World Cup in Alabama: The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off June 11, with Alabama viewers getting Central Time start times and streaming options for opening ceremonies (Mexico June 11 at 12:30 p.m. CST on Fox/Telemundo; U.S. June 12 at 8:30 p.m. CST; Canada June 12 at 12:30 p.m. CST). NAACP “Out of Bounds” & voting rights: The NAACP urges Black athletes to reconsider playing for major college programs in states redrawing congressional districts after Supreme Court changes, framing sports as tied to community political power. Reproductive rights at the Capitol: Alabama lawmakers marked the Griswold anniversary by pushing for contraception protections, spotlighting threats to access and the Title X program. SPLC under scrutiny: The Southern Poverty Law Center released its annual Year in Hate & Extremism report, while also facing fresh congressional questioning over its “hate map” designations. UF leadership update: University of Florida trustees unanimously selected Stuart Bell as next president, with state approval still pending. Alabama politics & culture: Gov. Kay Ivey encouraged families to open “Trump Accounts” for children ahead of the July 4 launch. Sports leadership: Chattanooga Christian School named Roy Heintz director of girls basketball, citing his track record building winning programs. Community calendar: Gulf Coast cities plan a multi-day Independence Day lineup for America’s 250th anniversary, with fireworks and family events July 2–6.