Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Tuscaloosa Thread launches a series of weekly stories leading up to July 4 to celebrate 250 years of independence (featuring local veterans’ graves at Greenwood Cemetery).

The series highlights how Revolutionary War ties shaped our state’s heritage.

Tuscaloosa City Schools is launching an all-virtual learning program for up to 250 high school students if at least 125 sign up before 3 p.m. on Jan.

30 — the program combines live online instruction with flexible schedules while keeping students enrolled in their zoned schools and extracurricular activities.

The former McFarland Mall site in Tuscaloosa is set for major development as developer Stan Pate proposes Project X (a plan that would cover 20 acres with a 30-year abatement and revised rebate terms), pending a full city council vote today.

The Tuscaloosa City Council is set to vote today on a $35 million tax abatement request by developer Stan Pate to revitalize the former Leland Shopping Center in Alberta City—replacing the tornado-damaged plaza with a green space after passing the finance committee.

CDC data shows flu cases spiked before the holiday break and now as students return to school today, nearly 10% of emergency visitors display flu symptoms.

Health officials advise keeping sick children at home plus practicing good hygiene to slow the virus spread.

Rico Scott is set to rejoin Alabama football’s wide receiver room this season after reports he would enter the transfer portal — he is expected to bolster the lineup alongside returning receivers and promising freshmen.

Alabama starting center Parker Brailsford declared for the 2026 NFL draft—becoming the first Crimson Tide underclassman to leave early.

He played for Washington before transferring in 2024 and earned honors with Alabama.

The Crimson Tide won 89-74 over Kentucky yesterday and moved from No.15 to No.12 in the USA Today Coaches Poll released Monday.

The team will face Vanderbilt in Nashville on Wednesday at 8:00 p.m.

Former starting linebacker Qua Russaw entered the transfer portal on Jan.

5 after a foot injury kept him out for six games in 2025, affecting the Crimson Tide's Wolf outside linebacker room. Justin Hill is set to return in 2026 as the team adjusts its defensive lineup.

Coach Nate Oats explained on Monday, Jan.

5 that teams must recruit G League players to stay competitive, though he worries the trend takes away chances for high school athletes. Alabama (11-3) faces Vanderbilt (8:00 p.m. CT Wednesday) following a win over Kentucky.

After Alabama beat Kentucky 89-74 on Jan.

3, a frustrated Kentucky fan called into a postgame show on Jan. 5 to sharply criticize coach Mark Pope and praise Alabama coach Nate Oats for his proven success in past matchups.

Alabama WOLF linebacker Qua Russaw entered the transfer portal after a season of limited play and injury setbacks; he is the 16th Crimson Tide player to do so, and the portal remains open until Jan.

16.

Four head coaches in the College Football playoff semis once worked with former Alabama coach Nick Saban in Tuscaloosa and now use those lessons to guide their teams.

Indiana, Oregon, Miami and Ole Miss will aim for glory as they prepare for upcoming bowl games.

Parker Brailsford, Alabama football’s starting center, announced Monday he would enter the NFL draft after two seasons with the Crimson Tide.

His decision may change the team’s offensive line lineup.

Jackson Chase: Acoustic Performance at Innisfree

3-7 p.m. — Innisfree Irish Pub — Cost not specified — Enjoy the acoustic sounds of local talent Jackson Chase in a cozy pub setting.

Bridgerton High Tea and Craft Night

5:30-11:30 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Public Library — Registration required — Celebrate the upcoming season of Bridgerton with tea, crafting, and delightful discussions.