Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

For over 15 months after Tristan Sheppard’s death on April 6th in the Cahaba River, his family in Centreville has demanded transparency from police — they remain frustrated that official reports, body camera footage and the autopsy have not been released under state law.

The University of Alabama School of Social Work has built the Black Belt Internship Initiative to connect students with community work in Dallas County and Selma, where they support youth and families alongside local leaders—this program, which started as a pilot in 2023, will expand with more student participation and deeper partnerships to meet local needs.

The University of Alabama was named No. 5 on Niche’s best student life list today—outranking Yale and showing strong campus culture and active student organizations.

The ranking is based on detailed surveys and education data that highlight the university’s lively environment.

Tuscaloosa City, Tuscaloosa City Schools, and Mountain Brook filed a suit on Aug.12 in Montgomery Circuit Court against the Alabama Department of Revenue to challenge the SSUT that lets large companies like Amazon and Walmart avoid local sales taxes — Mayor Walt Maddox said the current rule costs the city nearly $15 million a year, hurting funding for public safety and education.

Leaders gathered on Thursday morning in west Tuscaloosa to begin work on a plaza honoring the historic Howard-Linton Barbershop—sacred ground for the Civil Rights Movement as Mayor Walt Maddox said.

The $1.4 million project—expected to be completed in 2026—will include etched story panels and a bronze relief of Reverend Doctor Thomas Linton to preserve this important part of our history.

Researchers at UA have developed a nanoparticle that uses the citrus compound naringenin to treat inflammation at lower doses.

Tests in a mouse model showed the treatment reduced kidney damage and improved immune function — the team will soon test its benefits for other conditions.

A group of athletic directors, former coaches and a sports writer released early College Football Playoff predictions using stats and charts—predicting that Alabama may face a tough game against Tulane while the new 12-team format will remove first-round byes for the top four teams. They also noted that five conference champions and at-large bids will fill the playoff bracket set on Dec. 8.

Alabama named Ty Simpson its starting quarterback, and he is expected to serve as a bridge quarterback similar to Jake Coker + drawing loose comparisons to Mac Jones.

Coach Kalen DeBoer said Simpson will get extra support as young receivers and new transfers join the team ahead of the season opener.

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.

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Tuscaloosa Amphitheater — Check local listings — Experience the unforgettable hits of a legendary music partnership.