This week, Don reviews The Art of Becoming a Citizen: A Memoir by Gail Godwin.

APR news has covered the war between Ukraine and Russia a lot. When President Joe Biden said, ‘We will walk softly and carry a big javelin,’ he was paraphrasing Teddy Roosevelt and his saying about carrying ‘a big stick.’ Biden was also giving a nod to the Lockheed Martin plant in Troy, that Alabama factory makes the shoulder fired anti-tank missiles. And then there's the perspective of Alex Drueke.

Cameron the Capitol Cat became a regular sight at the Capitol Building in Lincoln Nebraska, and has been featured in the newspaper, television, even in cartoon strips - now that's a real political cat!

With 29 albums under his belt, Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame inductee and recent Alabama Distinguished Artist Award winner Eric Essex isn't slowing down. On this week's episode of Quick-Fire Quips, he sits down with Baillee Majors to tease his upcoming album, Things Above. But it’s not just about the music— also takes us behind his music education work in Alabama schools, reveals his Marvel comic book nerd status and names the three albums he'd give to an alien invasion!

In this edition of Alabama Out Loud, APR’s Aydan Conchin explores free and low-cost public beach access along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. As visitors head to the coast throughout the summer season, communities continue balancing tourism, safety and coastal conservation efforts. 🌊☀️🏖️

May is mental health awareness month, and organizations across the United States use this time to educate Americans on how to both understand mental health issues and offer support to people who are struggling. We're joining those voices with our last Simplified episode of the month: an informative chat with Dr. Abby Horton, an Assistant Professor at The University of Alabama’s Capstone College of Nursing. Dr. Horton has over a decade of researching wellness and mental health on her resume, making her the perfect guest to answer questions from Lacey (and the listening audience!) about what goes on in our heads and how to best take care of them.

This week on StoryCorps, we return with Ty Cramer and Steve Romein as they discuss how Common Power branched out towards Selma, Alabama and the significance it has for education and voting rights.

This week, Don reviews Ode to the Bones by Carolyn Haines.

Military Dogs ("War Dogs") have served warriors and soldiers since ancient times; their loyalty and bravery have made them invaluable assets on the battlefield.

As communities settle into the summer season, local libraries continue serving as welcoming spaces for learning, creativity and connection. In this edition of Alabama Out Loud, APR’s Aydan Conchin highlights free library programs, summer reading events and community activities happening across Alabama.