Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

This week West Alabama schools have started the new 2025-26 school year, and ALEA reminded drivers to slow down and keep a safe distance from stopped school buses with flashing red lights—violators may face fines and police patrols to protect students.

UA’s Alabama Materials Institute installed new instruments — including a local electrode atom probe and a 3D printer that prints metal and ceramic powders — to boost research opportunities and foster ties with industry.

The institute will host an open house on August 13-14 to showcase its upgraded capabilities.

ALDOT will begin a road improvement project on State Route 216 in Brookwood on August 11.

Bulls Construction Group will resurface the road, add sidewalks and upgrade traffic signals, with work scheduled to continue through year-end and affect travel from Covered Bridge Road to George Richmond Parkway.

Alabama's voting rights fight continues as judges recently heard arguments in a federal case seeking to restore oversight after a ruling found the state's redrawn map unfair — officials and the Justice Department oppose the change.

Rep. Terri Sewell supports a new voting rights act that may see the issue reach the U.S. Supreme Court.

Four Tuscaloosa leaders—Jheovanny Gómez, Katrina Keefer, Yolanda Page and Cade Warner—have been selected for Leadership Alabama, a program that starts in October in Montgomery and runs through May 2026.

The group will meet in Birmingham, Huntsville and Mobile to discuss Alabama’s key challenges and innovative solutions.

Yesterday, developer Stan Pate oversaw the demolition of the Dollar Tree store, the last building at the McFarland Mall property after it relocated.

A crowd gathered to watch the event — enjoying free coffee and donuts— while local officials observed the final phase of the redevelopment.

Miss Terry Saban said today on Great Day Tuscaloosa that a seven-part documentary on Nick Saban's 17-year career at Alabama is in production and features 70 interviews with former players and coaches—produced by Words—Pictures.

The film will recount his coaching success, which includes six national championships and nine SEC titles, while a release date remains unannounced.

Jamey Johnson Live Concert

7-9:30 PM — Druid City Music Hall — Cost info not provided — Experience the award-winning singer/songwriter Jamey Johnson performing live in Tuscaloosa.

Andy Gross Live

7 PM – 1 AM — The Historic Bama Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience the dynamic blend of comedy and magic with viral sensation Andy Gross.

Jackson Chase Live Performance

9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. — Tuscaloosa River Market — Free entry — Enjoy the soulful sounds of local talent Jackson Chase in a scenic riverside setting.

Dustin Lynch: Club Set

7-9:30 p.m. — Druid City Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience an energetic live performance by country star Dustin Lynch in Tuscaloosa.

Pitbull Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an electrifying performance by Grammy-winning star Pitbull, mixing music with motivational energy.

The Big Get Down in T-Town

7-11 p.m. — Central High School, Tuscaloosa, AL — $35 Early Bird — Experience the biggest outdoor concert of the summer with live performances and food trucks under the stars.

Louisiana Monroe Warhawks vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Football

6:45-8:15 p.m. — Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium — Tickets vary — Experience thrilling college football action as the Warhawks take on the Crimson Tide.