Independence Day In T-Town + Poole Withdraws From Speaker Race

Happy Independence Day, Tuscaloosa! Before you get out the door to show your patriotism and celebrate our freedom today, check out this Sunday issue of the Tuscaloosa Daily, with everything going on today in town.

First, today's weather: Clear throughout the day. High: 89° | Low: 66°

Patch Pick

Northport Mayor Bobby Herndon could be seen early Saturday morning showing his patriotism ahead of the Fourth of July by holding Old Glory and waving to motorists on Highway 82.

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Here are the top stories in Tuscaloosa today:

1. State Rep. Bill Poole, a Tuscaloosa Republican, announced on Friday that he would withdraw from the race to be the next speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives after revealing his intentions earlier in the week. (AL.com)
2. The Tuscaloosa Police Department has identified as Tuscaloosa County man killed in a motorcycle crash on Skyland Boulevard Friday evening. (More on Patch)
3. Here's a look at who's open and who's closed today and tomorrow in Tuscaloosa for the Fourth of July holiday. (More on Patch)
4. Don't miss the fireworks on the Black Warrior River tonight and the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra at the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater for Independence Day! (More on Patch)
5. Following the high-profile release of Bill Cosby, Chelsea Barton reports that many agencies providing services for sexual assault victims are worried the overturned conviction will impact survivors of similar types of abuse. (WVUA 23 News)

Now you're all caught up for today! If you're enjoying these newsletters, consider inviting some of your friends and neighbors to read along. You can send them this link to subscribe.

Have a happy Fourth of July!

— Ryan Phillips

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.