Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Judge Carole Smitherman is spotlighted this month as the Woman of True Grit by Edie Hand.

A University of Alabama School of Law graduate and former assistant district attorney, she has advanced access to justice for underserved communities (truly a local leader).

Kevin Croom is honored today at the Black History Makers of Alabama event hosted by Townsend Nissan at 2620 Skyland E Blvd; his Croom Foundation supports West Alabama families by aiding underprivileged youth, securing scholarships for 118 students & strengthening community ties.

United Way of West Alabama's Young Leaders Society hosted its 10th annual awards today in Tuscaloosa and recognized six individuals for their community contributions.

The event honored five recipients with the United in-Service Award and one with the David Reynolds Inspiration Award (celebrating leadership and service).

Kingdom Kitchen Outreach Center (at 7115 McFarland Blvd) is serving free, hot meals every Friday from 3 to 6 PM in Northport.

Pastor Garcia’s initiative began as a dream and aims to add more service days with continued local support.

Made in Mexico reopened its new space in north Tuscaloosa after relocating to make way for the new standalone Raising Cane’s, marking its return to serving Mexican favorites along with breakfast and brunch.

The restaurant signed a five-year lease and is working with city officials to obtain a liquor license.

Ronika Amerson, a veteran educator with nearly 30 years of service, leads Southview Elementary School’s 545 students + 75 staff and is honored as the 2026 Black History Maker of Alabama by Townsend Nissan and local partners.

The Alabama Forestry Commission said a wildfire covering just over 200 acres in Tuscaloosa County — the largest of three local fires — was 100 percent contained on Wednesday, and officials are continuing to monitor the area.

Brookwood Village demolition will begin in March to clear the site for future development in the area.

Alabama basketball played Mississippi State at Coleman Coliseum on Wednesday, Feb.

25 at 8 p.m. CT on ESPNU — streamed on Fubo, Sling, and ESPN+ — as the Crimson Tide extended their six-game win streak.

Brendt Bedsole was named the AHSAA assistant director for football and baseball, effective March 2, replacing Caleb Ross who took a head coaching job at Fairhope High School.

He brings 33 years of athletic experience — including roles at Auburn and Spanish Fort — to support high school programs statewide.

Ty Simpson, Alabama's starting quarterback, draws comparisons to former QB Mac Jones after posting 305 completions, 473 attempts, 3,567 yards, 30 touchdowns and five interceptions this season.

Simpson prepares for the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis later this month.

T-Mobile Crimson Classic - Friday

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Rhoads Stadium — Check local listings for ticket information — Celebrate community spirit and local storytelling at this engaging event.

Arsenic & Old Lace Performance

2:00–4:30 p.m. — Theatre Tuscaloosa — $21.00 — Enjoy a classic comedy that highlights the eccentricities of family life in a quirky Brooklyn home.

Jacksonville State Gamecocks vs Alabama Crimson Tide Baseball

4-6 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Check event host for cost — Witness an exciting college baseball matchup between local rivals.

North Florida Ospreys vs Alabama Crimson Tide Baseball

6-7 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Check for ticket prices — Experience a thrilling collegiate baseball matchup in Tuscaloosa.

Auburn Tigers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Basketball

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Coleman Coliseum — Check with venue for ticket information — Rival college basketball teams clash in an exciting SEC showdown.

Troy Trojans vs Alabama Crimson Tide Baseball

6-9 p.m. — Sewell-Thomas Stadium — Check for ticket details — Enjoy an exciting baseball matchup between local college teams.

Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Softball

6:59-10:59 p.m. — Rhoads Stadium — [Cost Info Not Provided] — Witness a thrilling matchup as the Arkansas Razorbacks take on the Alabama Crimson Tide on their home turf.

K-POP Warriors

7-8:30 p.m. — Bryant Conference Center — Free parking — Experience a high-energy K-Pop show filled with dance, music, and colorful characters.

Tuscaloosa Spring Craft & Vendor Market

10 a.m. - 8 p.m. & 1 - 5:30 p.m. — University Mall — Free entry — Celebrate spring with local vendors and unique seasonal finds.