Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Investigator Justin Beal of the University of Alabama Police died July 8 after fighting a rare cancer.

His teammates and family remember him for his hard work and kind nature since he joined the department in 2023.

Elizabeth Baptist Church is hosting the 120th Northwest District State Session from July 13 to 15 at 2650 Elizabeth Street for church leaders from across Alabama & public guests to experience worship, preaching, and leadership development.

Parents can save on back-to-school shopping by using the state's sales tax holiday from July 17 to 19 (over 300 counties will also waive local taxes).

UAB associate business professor Jennifer Edmonds advises focusing on essential items like clothing, computers, and school supplies.

Tuscaloosa drivers saw gas at Walmart on Alabama Hwy 69 S for $3.32 (Thursday, July 9), but experts warn prices will rise soon as supply issues persist.

Two Tuscaloosa business leaders have been named to the Board of Directors for the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences Foundation, which backs a tuition-free healthcare high school that will welcome its first freshman class in August at a mini campus in Livingston & the board re-elected chair Kirk Stephens while naming Cade Warner as secretary-treasurer.

DCH Health System hired Patrick Hinkle, a former UA police officer with 24 years of experience, as Security Supervisor at Northport Medical Center off McFarland Boulevard.

His appointment comes as part of DCH's commitment to ensure safety for patients + staff across its campuses.

Former Alabama running back Josh Jacobs made his fifth NFL Top 100 appearance after his 2025 season with the Packers – ranking 74th overall.

He rushed for 929 yards and 13 touchdowns, showing strong play despite not reaching 1,000 yards.

ESPN has ranked former Alabama assistants among the top 10 FBS coaches—as college football season nears.

The rankings name head coaches Curt Cignetti and Kirby Smart, highlighting a lasting Crimson Tide legacy.

Devan Thompkins, a USC transfer with 28 college games, has joined Alabama's defensive line as he fills a key role at Bandit defensive end.

Early evaluations from coach Kane Wommack praise his work ethic and versatility and highlight his fresh impact in Tuscaloosa.

Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer was named to the Dodd Trophy Preseason Watchlist (one of 20 coaches) for an award honoring scholarship, leadership, and integrity.

The list features five SEC coaches and was announced in a university release.

Ticket sales for select home football games are now open, including the Tide’s homecoming game vs Texas A&M, with upper deck prices from $30 to $200.

Five games feature unique celebrations (Big Al’s Kids Club Day and a 1966 SEC Championship Reunion).

Multiple players with Alabama roots will join their NBA teams at the Summer League in Las Vegas — the 10-day event begins Thursday and gathers rising talent from UAB, Auburn and other local institutions to prepare for the 2026-27 season.

Tuscaloosa-area high school football kicks off Aug.

20 through Oct. 30 with teams following a new public+private postseason split. Playoffs begin in November and championships will be held in early December.

Alabama women’s basketball introduced head coach Pauline Love in April, and she credits her late college mentor (Joye Lee-McNelis) for inspiring her 15-year coaching career as she returns to Tuscaloosa to lead the team and support her players on and off the court.

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.