Eric Mackey is Alabama’s new superintendent of education. Before this, he was a lobbyist for state school superintendents. Mackey says Alabama schools must address poverty, teachers, and school funding.

The $436 million budget for the fiscal year starting July 1 includes basic support for city services and a small cost of living adjustment for employees. But some funds and requests will be handled differently.

Alabama Power has withdrawn from the Business Council of Alabama amid concerns over leadership. A spokesman for Alabama Power said there are questions surrounding the organization’s effectiveness. The BCA says it plans to change its executive leadership.

State and city leaders announced Facebook's plans to build a $750 million data center in Huntsville. Gov. Kay Ivey discussed the project during a news conference Thursday in Huntsville. Ivey's office said the center will employ 100 people with an average annual salary of nearly $80,000.

Birmingham singer Love Moor has been attracting attention around the Magic City. But she's pushing beyond her hometown, including an appearance at South by Southwest this spring.

Birmingham-area student Rachel Hyche will compete this weekend in the Braille Challenge. It's her second trip to the finals in Los Angeles.