Nitrogen Execution Fight: A federal judge permanently blocked Alabama from using nitrogen gas to execute Jeffery Lee, ruling the protocol violates the Eighth Amendment; Alabama’s attorney general is appealing, and the case could reach the U.S. Supreme Court. World Cup Spotlight in Alabama: Lionel Messi returned to action for Argentina in Auburn, scoring in a 3-0 win over Iceland ahead of the World Cup opener, drawing more than 80,000 fans. College Baseball Buzz: With the College World Series set, Alabama’s path stays in focus as SEC teams dominate the field and predictions point to pitching as the deciding factor. Local Sports Honors: Alabama Sports Writers Association named multiple area standouts to the ASWA All-State softball teams, including DeKalb and Jackson County players earning first-team recognition. Community & Culture: Gulf Coast cities are planning multi-day Independence Day events for America’s 250th anniversary, with fireworks and family activities across Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and Foley. Public Safety Tragedy: A Sumiton Walmart-area shooting left a man dead after an argument, with an 18-year-old facing a murder charge.