Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

City leaders broke ground on a nearly $10 million Belk Center expansion after seniors voiced concerns about the old therapy pool at the McAbee Center.

The project will add a new indoor therapy pool and lobby renovations at Bowers Park (construction continues through fall 2027).

Hokkaido Japanese Steak and Sushi Bar at 607 15th St. E is closed for renovations that began on May 18 and are expected to last a couple of months, and the owners announced the update on Facebook + will keep the community informed.

Tuscaloosa County held an indoor and outdoor celebration Wednesday for America’s upcoming 250th birthday at the Synergic Center in Northport, featuring colonial reenactments by the local Sons of the American Revolution and a dedication of a Liberty Tree.

The UA Career Center launches a new Office of Internships to expand hands-on learning opportunities for students.

Set to begin Fall 2026, the office will work with faculty + employers to boost internship participation and help students build essential job skills.

The University of Alabama will host Family Weekend from Sept.

25 to 27 with over 40 activities for students and their families. The event features campus open houses, a kickoff concert, outdoor fun on Lake Nicol, a home football game + a jazz brunch for a full campus experience.

Recent graduate Luke Turner has launched an official website preserving Denny Chimes' history on campus.

The site collects stories, blueprints, and photos gathered with UA IT and musical experts (including Dr. Zaheri) so students and visitors can explore this beloved icon.

Alabama educators and families are watching the CHOOSE Act, a school voucher program passed in 2024, offer $7,000 per child per year via a Class Wallet app starting New Year’s Day, while universal eligibility comes in 2027 (current income limits cap eligibility at 300% of the federal poverty level).

Today, as Alabama observes Juneteenth, state offices, courts, banks, DMVs & USPS are closed while UPS, FedEx and most retailers operate on adjusted schedules.

Check local hours for more details.

Alabama ranks third in heart disease deaths, with around 15,000 lives lost each year.

In Tuscaloosa, rates have dropped by about 4.5% recently (according to ADPH data), yet doctors urge more CPR training and defibrillators in public places to help save lives.

Downtown Northport’s Billy’s Sports Grill, a family-run eatery serving scratch-made comfort food, is joining Tuscaloosa Restaurant Week from June 18 through 27.

It is at 430 Main Avenue (open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and until 10 p.m. on weekends) offering items like Buffalo Chicken Wrap.

Football coach Kalen DeBoer said Cal Poly transfer Racin Delgatty is expected to start at center after joining the team ahead of SEC Media Days on Monday, Jul.

20 as Alabama prepares to replace Parker Brailsford. He played in 22 games over three seasons and has built up needed strength.

Tuscaloosa native Deon Williams, a former star quarterback who shined at Tuscaloosa County High School, now coaches at Gainesville High School in Georgia.

He uses his storied playing and coaching background to mentor young athletes plus keep hometown football traditions alive.

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.