Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

On Tuesday, the United Way of West Alabama launched its most ambitious campaign yet, aiming to raise $4.8 million for 30 nonprofits that help local families and children at the Bryant Conference Center.

Campaign chair Josh Hayes thanked donors and said the funds will let groups like Tuscaloosa SAFE Center—vital services—to focus more on their missions.

United Way kicked off its $4.8 million (2025–26) fundraising drive on August 12 at the Bryant Conference Center (Tuscaloosa) as campaign chairman Josh Hayes and his wife Jenny Rob handed out sweets while community members watched speakers and children perform.

Three men were arrested on felony drug charges after a vehicle pursuit in Tuscaloosa County on Tuesday — officers said the chase began when a West Alabama Narcotics Task Force agent tried to stop a Dodge Durango on Southmont Drive and ended when drugs and a handgun were found near Whisperwood Lane and a local hotel.

The demolition of the Dollar Tree at the old McFarland Mall site cleared the way for Encore—a mixed-use development that will transform the Skyland and McFarland Boulevard corridor and generate up to $10 million over the next decade.

Developer Stan Pate plans to acquire nearby properties as the city offers $65 million in tax incentives to boost economic growth.

I Dream Big Charter School, Alabama’s first HBCU-partnered charter school, opens today in West Alabama in partnership with Stillman College to welcome 200 middle school students—launching a Big Picture Learning model that will add a new grade level each year.

The City of Tuscaloosa and Tuscaloosa City Schools filed a lawsuit on August 12 in Montgomery County Circuit Court against Commissioner Vernon Barnett, claiming that Alabama’s Simplified Sellers Use Tax lets companies with a physical presence take local tax revenue.

The suit seeks a ruling to declare the law unconstitutional and to force eligible sellers to charge traditional local sales taxes—aiming to keep funds in our community for schools, first responders, and local businesses.

An aging shopping center on Skyland Boulevard is set to undergo a $25 million facelift as developer Michael Whitworth works with city officials to redevelop the 105,000-square-foot property.

The project will modernize the site, which includes Fresh Value and a wings restaurant, with new spaces for retailers — CBRE Group has secured the leasing agreement for OmniMarket.

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson was named the starting quarterback at the University of Alabama after three seasons as a backup—he said his hard work and his teammates’ support made his dream come true.

He will have his first start on August 30 against the Florida State Seminoles.

Alabama football coach Ryan Grubb said the staff is still deciding on the No. 2 quarterback spot between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell—both are working hard in practice.

The Crimson Tide will open the season Aug. 30 against Florida State.

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.

ZZ Top Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Last-minute tickets available — Rock out with the legendary ZZ Top at this iconic venue.

Evanescence Concert

6-9 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Check for ticket details — Experience the powerful sounds of Evanescence live as they promote their latest music.