Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Tuscaloosa officials approved an incentive plan for Springbrook Circle, a new commercial development off McFarland Boulevard that will bring Culver's, Dutch Bros Coffee + Valvoline Oil Change Service Center.

The project is set to create up to 215 jobs, though an opening date has not been confirmed.

Heavy machinery was seen at the new Sports Illustrated Hotel + Resort off Rice Mine Road after ground was broken in early June.

The $150 million project is set to be ready for business by the 2028 football season.

Tuscaloosa County celebrated America's 250th birthday yesterday in Northport by dedicating a Liberty Tree at the Synergic Center, where reenactors fired cannons and the Sons of the American Revolution fired volleys.

UA launched a new generative AI policy and AI Hub website today to guide faculty, staff and students in using approved tools responsibly (with clear standards for data privacy, cybersecurity and academic integrity).

New tools must be submitted to OIT for review before being connected to UA systems.

Federal financial aid changes take effect July 1, allowing most Alabama students to receive up to $7,300 in Pell Grants while reducing part-time student loan options by half — students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA and explore alternative aid programs.

The University of Alabama launched a pilot test for its new AI Experience course on Monday through the UA Teaching Academy and Office of Teaching Innovation, which will be available to all students, faculty, and staff this fall.

The course uses a 4D model (Discern, Direct, Double-Check, Defend) to guide AI learning.

Dannon Bedwell, who served as MLK Elementary’s assistant principal since 2020, was named principal by Tuscaloosa City Schools after Dr. LaTanya Williams-Collins left for a new role in Huntsville — he plans to build on the school’s strong academic gains.

The UA Board of Trustees met Nov.

7 at Sellers Auditorium and approved a new School of Data Science (with a $5.3 million annual budget) for applied data science degrees. UA President Peter Mohler said the interdisciplinary program will connect computing expertise across the university.

Teachers and students learned fabrication methods while building a 36-foot gooseneck trailer at the Career Tech Annex at Tuscaloosa County High School on Jun.

17; workshop leader Rusty Mertink guided hands-on welding and metal-measurement techniques (including component attachment) during the session.

During Tuscaloosa Restaurant Week from today until June 27, Turbo Coffee at 2010 8th Street in downtown Tuscaloosa is serving its viral raspberry cream cheese danish latte and locally farmed zucchini bread while its family-owned team prepares to expand into Florence with a new roastery.

The RNB Brunch Experience

1:30-5 p.m. — Bryant Conference Center — Admission tickets available — Indulge in a unique blend of food, drinks, and a nostalgic R&B music experience.

Lauren Daigle Concert

7-9 p.m. — Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful music of two-time GRAMMY winner Lauren Daigle live in Tuscaloosa.

Jackson Chase Live at The Rabbit Hole

7-11 p.m. — The Rabbit Hole — Ticket prices vary — Experience Jackson Chase's unpredictable music with the Dogwood Bayou Band in a fun, lively venue.