Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of September.
Good morning, Tuscaloosa.
On Sept. 17, hundreds met at Two Dimes Bama in Tuscaloosa to remember Charlie Kirk and urge young people to carry on his work—speakers like CJ Pearson and Savannah Chrisley called for peaceful dialogue while police maintained tight security nearby.
Mountain Brook teen Lulu Gribbin was injured in a shark attack in Florida in June 2024—losing her left hand and part of her leg—and she told Michael Strahan on Good Morning America that she will overcome her injuries by supporting beach alerts through Lulu's Law and starting a foundation to help others and return to sports.
The O’Jays will bring classic soul and memorable hits to Tuscaloosa’s Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater on September 24—gates open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m., with the Beach Boys, LoCash, and Herman’s Hermits also set to perform.
University of Alabama reached a record enrollment of 42,360 students for fall 2025, a 3.7% increase from last year+ officials said that a 4% rise in in-state students shows strong local recruiting efforts.
The school also saw boosts in graduate and Early College enrollment as it expanded outreach to high schools and rural communities.
Tuscaloosa City Council is considering taking away the license of Guns and Ammo, LLC—a gun store on Greensboro Avenue—after complaints say it is a public nuisance and a danger to public safety, health and welfare.
A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, September 30 to gather more details and decide on the store’s future.
Feeding Alabama is distributing 500 Pediatric Nutrition Education Kits to pediatricians during Hunger Action Month—about one in five children in the state experiences hunger.
The kits include a simple two-question screening and food resource information and have reached about half of the intended targets; the organization hopes to secure additional funding from current partners for continued support.
Kissing bugs are insects that bite while you sleep and may carry the parasite that causes Chagas disease—though no cases have been reported in Alabama.
The CDC says the bugs, which can grow up to one inch, have been found in several southern states and can bite pets and wildlife—so residents should watch for symptoms like fever and swelling near the eye.
Alabama defensive back Bray Hubbard was named Jim Thorpe Defensive Back of the Week after recording two interceptions and five tackles during the Tide's 38—14 win over Wisconsin, marking his first weekly honor of the season.
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart said on the SEC Coaches Call that Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson is extremely accurate—he has posted strong performances with a high completion rate and no interceptions and will face Georgia on September 27.
No. 22 Auburn will face No. 11 Oklahoma on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. in Norman and UAB will play No. 15 Tennessee at 11:45 a.m. in Knoxville as both teams try to stay undefeated—Auburn coach Hugh Freeze said his team must fix mistakes after a win over South Alabama and UAB coach Trent Dilfer called the tough game a chance to grow. Alabama will resume its season next week by traveling to Athens to face Georgia after a bye.
The ASWA 2025 Week 4 poll ranks Alabama high school football teams from Classes 7A to 1A and AISA as the AHSAA season nears its halfway point, showing records and points totals that may affect playoff seeding.
For example, Central-Phenix City leads Class 7A (with a record of 4 to 0 and 2012 points) while other classes have differing performance.
Tuscaloosa Oktoberfest 5K
8-9 a.m. — Government Plaza — Registration fees apply — Lace up for a day of fun and purpose while supporting the American Cancer Society.
Peter Noone Live
7-11 p.m. — Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the legendary sound of Peter Noone, the iconic lead singer of Herman's Hermits.
Tuscaloosa Taco & Margarita Festival
12-6 p.m. — The Venue — Ticket prices vary — Taste bold tacos, chilled margaritas, and enjoy live music at this ultimate fiesta.
The Brook & The Bluff Concert
7-9:30 p.m. — Druid City Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the expertly crafted songs and sublime musicianship of Nashville-based band The Brook & The Bluff.
Alabama Law Tailgate on the Quad
11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — Amelia Gayle Gorgas Library — Free entry — Tailgate with Dean Brewbaker before the big game on the Quad.
Greensky Bluegrass Concert
7-8:30 p.m. — The Historic Bama Theatre — Check for ticket prices — Experience an electrifying night of bluegrass music from the renowned Greensky Bluegrass.
Valentino Khan Live
6:00-9:30 p.m. — Druid City Music Hall — General Admission — Experience Valentino Khan's limitless creativity and versatility in a high-energy performance.
Cinderella - The Musical
1-4 p.m. — The Historic Bama Theatre — Experience the enchanting tale of Cinderella come to life through stunning ballet performances.
Loud Luxury Concert
6-11 p.m. — Druid City Music Hall — General Admission — Experience electrifying dance music from the Canadian duo Loud Luxury.
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Football
1-4 p.m. — Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium — Tickets required — A classic SEC rivalry showdown in the heart of Alabama.
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