Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

Gas prices in Alabama are steady today at $3.69 a gallon, with Tuscaloosa County averaging $3.67 as the rate stays below the national average of $4.08 amid Labor Day travel and Iran tensions.

Four UA engineering faculty win NSF CAREER Awards and researchers test a new lupus treatment combining an immunosuppressant with a synthetic dietary compound, while the theatre and dance department hosts a high school festival on Sept.

12 (8:30 a.m.) at Bryce Main for masterclasses, tours and headshots.

UA alumna Ruby Tilghman revived the 57 Miles program (connecting students with rural opportunities) and now serves as Miss Alabama, using her platform at Miss America to promote service learning; she plans to graduate in May 2027 and pursue medical school.

Seniors at Brookwood High took part in Beyond Brookwood today where local employers and military recruiters helped them plan their future and polish resume skills plus Tuscaloosa County Schools said it will hold similar events at other high schools soon.

Tuscaloosa’s Environmental Services Department launched its first Recycled Art Contest inviting all ages to create art from recyclables for display at the Kentuck Festival.

Residents pick up recycled glass mulch at 3440 Reese Phifer Ave and must submit entries by Oct. 1 — winners receive passes and a coupon.

Patients at DCH’s Manderson Cancer Center are using the Paxman Scalp Cooling System to help prevent hair loss during chemotherapy.

The DCH Foundation covers the cost of the first 10 treatments (which have shown promising results) and will explore full funding next year.

West Alabama Women's Center spotlights how cultural traditions shape breastfeeding practices in the community.

The center's initiative features local health experts (including community leaders) offering practical support to families.

Alabama football opens its 2026 season against East Carolina at Bryant-Denny Stadium; Keelon Russell will start at quarterback as the game kicks off at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept.

5 on ABC.

SEC preseason power rankings for college football place Texas at top & Alabama sixth ahead of its game vs East Carolina.

Released Aug. 31, the ranking also puts Georgia second & Texas A&M third as teams prepare for Sept. 5 openers.

Veteran safety Keon Sabb boosts the Crimson Tide secondary as Alabama prepares to face East Carolina University on Saturday at Saban Field at 11 a.m. CT — his experience and leadership are expected to strengthen the defense after returning from a broken foot last season.