By Gwen DeRu | The Birmingham Times
HAPPY WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH!!
“CELEBRATE THE SHEROS IN YOUR LIFE!!!”
TODAY, MARCH 19…
**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!
**WOMEN BUILDING CREATIVE FUTURES WORKSHOP, 3:30 p.m. at Create Birmingham.
**JAZZ HAPPY HOUR with JOSE CARR AND HIS BAND, 5 p.m. at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.
**THE VOICES OF DONNY HATHAWAY at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame at 7 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday with a 2:30 p.m. show on Sunday.
**FREE – GOOD FLYING BIRDS with TOUCH GIRL APPLE BLOSSOM, CASH LANGDON, FROWNLINES at Saturn.
**KARAOKE KICKBACK EVERY THURSDAY, 6 – 9 p.m. at Jazzi’s on 3rd, with Happy Hour 5-6 p.m. FREE. There is a weekly Cash Prize hosted by Loretta Hill.
**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**THAT’S MY JAM THURSDAYS KARAOKE & MINGLE at Platinum with music by DEVYBE BAND and hosted by Jirus Horton. Line Dance with DESI KEITH & D2 at 6 p.m.
**STEVIE TOMBSTONE with the EXLAWS at The Nick.
**RnB POETICALLY LIT, 5-7 p.m. at Lit on 8th, 518 Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd. with HUNCHO ZAVY, KD MCQWEEN, CAROL HOOD, DKMODE, BRIANNE SHARDAW and hosted by HEMP THE ARTIST. Every Thursday.
**3rd THURSDAY at the Nick with RAMBLIN’ RICKY TATE at The Nick.
**FILMMAKER NETWORKING NIGHTS, 5 p.m. at 1821 2nd Avenue North
**EVERY THURSDAY- THAT’S MY JAM THURSDAYS, 7 p.m. at Platinum of Birmingham with DJ Slugga.
**ALABAMA BLAZIN BINGO, 6 p.m. at Overtime Grill and Bar.
**FILM at Sidewalk Film.
**KARAOKE, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
FRIDAY, MARCH 20…
IT IS FRIDAY…the weekend starts…
**FISH FRY FRIDAY at Lil Mama’s, 1200 Hall Avenue EVERY FRIDAY 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
**THE RONALD RODRIGUEZ QUARTET at Pogo, 7 p.m.
**COMEDIAN SPECIAL EVENT: TOMMY DAVIDSON at the StarDome Comedy Club.
**ALFRED BANKS featuring PACO & SAYGO, SOUNDS BY ISH at The Nick.
**LATE NIGHT with QDOT + JAXXXON + FRIENDS at The Nick.
**SISTER HAZEL with HIGHWAY HOME at Avondale Brewing Co.
**HEATED RIVALRY NIGHT at Saturn.
**FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS, 5 p.m. at Howard’s Unlimited Lounge & Cocktail Bar at 4010 Avenue I with food by 1918 Catering Food Truck. Happy Hour at 5 p.m. Call 205-213-9097 for more.
**GOOD PEOPLE & GOOD MUSIC WITH GOOD PEOPLE BREWING at Dave’s, 6 p.m. at Dave’s Pub.
SATURDAY, MARCH 21…
**MIND, BODY & SOULD HEALTH FAIR, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Seventh Avenue Baptist Church, 447 Center Street with the Friendly Sisters Chapter#26 Order of Eastern Star with Free Health screening, wellness resources, expert consultations, interactive demos, family- friendly activities and community connections. For more, email: FriendlySisters26@gmail.com
**RITUAL DFW (GHOST TRIBUTE) at The Nick.
**BURLESQUE NIGHT at The Nick.
**COMEDIAN SPECIAL EVENT: COMEDIAN TOMMY DAVIDSON at the StarDome Comedy Club.
SUNDAY, MARCH 22…
**CITY SOFTBALL SHOWDOWN, 2 p.m. at Ruffner Park Sports Complex in City of Irondale, 301 Ruffner Road. Watch the irondale employee All-Stars swing, slide and score. Also, the Ruffner Sports complex is looking for Volunteers. Sign up at www.tinyurl.com/RuffParkConcessions.
**HOWARD’S UNLIMITED LOUNGE & COCKTAIL BAR, 4010 Avenue I, in Belview Heights opened recently by our own favorite son radio personality and D.J. CHRIS COLEMAN. Check it out for Sunday Brunch with food by 1918 Catering, music and more!! For more, call 205-213-9097. 1918 Catering is the best food for lunch, dinner or your special event. (Take my word.)
**JOSE CARR performing at JAZZ IN THE GARDEN SUNDAYS, Every 1st and 3rd Sunday, 5-8 p.m. at Denim on 7th, 2808 7th Avenue Suite105.
**EASE BACK 4th SUNDAYS, 5 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**FREE SHOW with TAYLOR HOLLINGSWORTH at The Nick.
**2ND SUNDAY FREE SHOW with ZACH AUSTIN at The Nick.
**4th SUNDAY FREE SHOW with our favorite TAYLOR HOLLINGSWORTH at The Nick.
**MOTION SUNDAYS at Platinum, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. with DJ CUZZO X DJ A1 Controlling the Vibes. There will be Drink Specials.
**THE MENZINGERS with I AM THE AVALANCHE at Saturn.
MONDAY, MARCH 23…
**5TH ANNUAL DUNDRILL HEIGHTS SPRING BREAK FILM CAMP, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the YMCA Youth Center (Downtown), 2400 Seventh Avenue North. For more info, Call 205-370-7805 or go to CinematicCreations.agency.
**WEEK DAYS – IRONDALE SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER has activities starting at 8 a.m. with a Hot Lunch served for Seniors Monday – Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Call 205-951-1418 for details about the FREE program.
**MONDAYS – THURSDAYS – CFJS CARES RESPITE PROGRAM, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Call 205-278-7113 for more info.
**MONDAYS – GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP, 10-11:30 a.m. at CJFS Conference Room. Open to survivors who have experienced loss within the past 2 years. Call 205-278-7101 to sign up.
**MONDAYS – DEMENTIA CAREGIVER VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUP, 3 p.m. and/or Tuesday at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Call 205-278-7113 for more info.
**BIRMINGHAM BANDSTAND at The Nick.
**THE MOTH OPEN MIC STORYCLAMM: FUMBLES AND FOOLS at Saturn.
TUESDAY, MARCH 24…
**Music Program with DJ DOUG at the Irondale Senior Activity Center
**TACO TUESDAY R & B NIGHT, EVERY THURSDAY at Hemings on 2ND Avenue.
**PODCASTING 101 at CREED63, EVERY TUESDAY at 5:45 p.m. Learn how to launch and create your own podcast at 1601 5th Avenue North, Birmingham 35203.
**JOSE CARR EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT at True Story Brewing.
**SONGWRITER’S NIGHT EVERY 2ND TUESDAY at The Nick.
**REAL FUNNY COMEDY WEDNESDAYS at True Story Brewing. Sign up at 7:30 p.m.
**GRAPHIC DESIGNER HAPPY HOUR with JENNIFER DANIEL at Saturn.
**FREE RADIODIFFUSION INTERNASIONAAL at Saturn
**SPECIAL EVENT: HAIRY SITUATION: A COMEDY SHOW BY ALOK at The StarDome Comedy Club.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25…
**REAL FUNNY COMEDY WEDNESDAYS at True Story Brewing. Sign up at 7:30 p.m.
**LOCAL COMIC OPEN HOUSE at the StarDome Comedy Club.
**FREE – FEATS OF STRENGTH: WRESTLING TRIVIA NIGHT at Saturn.
NEXT THURSDAY, MARCH 26 …
**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!
**JAZZ HAPPY HOUR with JOSE CARR AND HIS BAND, 5 p.m. at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.
**CHOKO AIKEN PIANO TRIO at High Dive, 7 p.m.
**FREE SATURN’S COUNTRY KARAOKE with TRISTEN KLAVENGA at Saturn.
**KARAOKE KICKBACK EVERY THURSDAY, 6 – 9 p.m. at Jazzi’s on 3rd, with Happy Hour 5-6 p.m. FREE. There is a weekly Cash Prize hosted by Loretta Hill.
**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**THAT’S MY JAM THURSDAYS KARAOKE & MINGLE at Platinum with music by DEVYBE BAND and hosted by Jirus Horton. Line Dance with DESI KEITH & D2 at 6 p.m.
**TAND with MEDICINE BUS at The Nick.
**SPECIAL EVENT” COMEDIAN PHIL HANLEY at the StarDome Comedy Club.
NEXT FRIDAY, MARCH 27….
**FISH FRY FRIDAY at Lil Mama’s, 1200 Hall Avenue EVERY FRIDAY, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
**COMEDIAN SPECIAL EVENT: TONY BAKER at the StarDome Comedy Club.
**WATCH HOUSE at Iron City.
**THE NOWHERE SQUARES + MARA MAGRA + ABUSEMEMT + BOLEE at The Nick.
**THE BROOK & THE BLUFF: WEREWOLF TOUR w/CASSANDRA COLEMAN at Avondale Brewing Co.
**ROBERT LESTER FOLSOM with RAMBLER KANE at Saturn.
NEWS TO KNOW AND USE – PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS TO WATCH…
HAPPY WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH –
CELEBRATE THE SHEROES IN YOUR LIFE – Across the Americas, Caribbean and beyond, women have fought for freedom, championed culture and redefined leadership. During Women’s History Month, we honor the freedom fighters who stood against colonial rule, the heads of state who navigated their nations through global shifts and the visionary diplomats advocating for climate justice on the world stage. From entertainers to pioneering educators and scientists shaping the next generation, their influence is woven into the fabric of our history. This month, we honor their legacy and celebrate the women continuing to break new ground.
(Photo: Celebrating RITA COLLINS Author and Educator) (Photo Credit: ritacollinsauthor.com)
FOR BOOK LOVERS… Celebrating and Honoring Alabama native, AUTHOR AND EDUCATOR RITA COLLINS who has written books for children, adults, inspiration, and more. Rita was born in Montgomery on an Air Force base. She grew up in Birmingham. As the daughter of an education and an airman, her life was shaped by colorful experiences. Living in many places and attending school in France for a few years she saw life from many perspectives, gained love for people, cultures and an appreciation for various artistic expressions. Ms. Collins wrote an encouragement journal for adults to provoke inspirational thoughts entitled “WHAT WOULD HARRIETT DO? (It was inspired by her brother Joseph ‘JoJo’ Collins and considered A MUST READ It prompts reflection on personal growth, celebrate resilience and inspire future action while connecting with Harriett Tubman’s enduring legacy. Collins books for children are what she loves and include: The Eensy Weensy Caterpillar, The Eensy Weensy Penguin, The Eensy Weensy Acorn, The Eensy Weensy Lizard, and The Eensy Weensy Kitten, all illustrated by Michael Allen. Another great book for children is T Mattie’s Manners that help to teach children manners. Bren Riddle is the illustrator.
**CELEBRATING DAUGHTERS IN FAITH AND SPIRIT WORKING TOGETHER – The Sixth Anniversary Celebration is SUNDAY, 3 p.m., at St. John A.M.E. Church, 708 15th Avenue North. The theme is ‘Daughters in Faith and Spirit Working Together.’ The Daughters of Abraham Women’s Ministry (founded in 2020) is a women’s outreach program of St. John A.M.E. Church where Reverend Dr. Ronald D. Sterling is Pastor. This ‘Celebration of Praise’ features Speaker REVEREND SHARON HEARNS, Pastor of New St. Mark A.M.E. Church. This growing collective of women with diverse ages and backgrounds serve and connect communities across Greater Birmingham aiming to support other women recovering from divorce, addiction, domestic violence and other crises. President Terry Beasley stated that the program will include the installation of the new officers, inspire attendees to network and discover ways to use their special skills and talents to serve and impact their communities. It is FREE and Open to all women. For more information, call 205-566-6950 or visit www.stjohnbirmingham.com/campaigns/daughtersofabraham.
AROUND BIRMINGHAM…
**MARCH 28 – THE NEW EDITION WAY TOUR 2026 with NEW EDITION, BOYZ II MEN, TONI BRAXTON is coming to Birmingham.
**APRIL 4 – MOUNTAIN BROOK EASTER EGG ROLL, 10 a.m. on the Grassy Field by the O’Neal Library. INTERESETED INPARTICIPATING? Donate Eggs to the chamber to be included as a sponsor for this year’s event and have your logo on the banner. Email chamber@mtnbrookchamber.org to confirm and Drop off eggs at the chamber office by Thursday, April 2.
IN THE CITY OF IRONDALE…
**MARCH 28 – FOOTSTEPS OF FAITH PRAYER WALK, 9 – 10 a.m. at irondale City Hall with Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr. and Irondale City Chaplain Mike McClure, Sr.
**MARCH 29 – EASTER EGGS-PERIENCE 2026, 2 p.m. at the Ruffner Park Sports Complex with FREE ice cream, crafts and Easter Bunny Photos. SCHEDULE including Ages, Times and Locations: AGES 0-3, 2 p.m. at Field 3B; AGES 4-6, 2:30 p.m. at Field 3A; AGES 7-10, 2:30 p.m. at Field 2; AGES 11+, 2:45 p.m. at Field 1 and Seniors (55+), 3 p.m. at Field 3.
**MARCH 31 – TOWN HALL MEETING – Sate of the City ReCap, 6 p.m. at Irondale City Hall, 101 20th Street South presented by Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.
FOR FILM LOVERS…
**MARCH 24 – ‘SO YOU SAY YOU PLAY JAZZ’ JOSE’ CARR’S TRUE STORY at True Story Brewing, 6 p.m. This is about the life and career of local jazz legend Jose’Carr and his ongoing residency and jazz jams. A Q&A with Director MATT BELLISARIO will follow the screening. Carr and friends invite participants for a performance. True Story Tuesday Jazz Jams is one of the premiere jazz events in Birmingham music scene. Movie is FREE. Concert is $10 at the door.
**THE ALABAMA SOLUTION – A HBO OSCAR AWARD NOMINATED DOCUMENTARY is a MUST SEE when you can. Look for more it on HBO.
FOR BALLET LOVERS…
**ALABAMA BALLET’S 45th ANNIVERSARY SEASON – Celebrating four decades this 2026-27 Sapphire Season brings: Ballet in the Sky, American Portraits, George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, Unbound, At Home: New Voices and Swan Lake. Highlights include ‘American Portraits’ created in celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary as well as historic milestones in ballet including the 150th Anniversary of ‘Swan Lake’ and the 60th Anniversary of ‘George Balanchine’s Rubies’.
FOR MUSIC LOVERS… AT THE HISTORIC CARVER THEATRE…
**MARCH 28 – CANDLELIGHT: NEO-SOUL FAVORITES featuring songs by Prince, Childish Gambino and more, 8:45 p.m. at the Carver Theatre under the glow of candlelight.
**APRIL 20 – JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY LIVE, 5 – p.m. at the Carver Theatre for the Sunday Series, Jazz on 4th.
**JUNE 13 – JAZZ GIRLS DAY, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Carver Theatre. This groundbreaking event will celebrate young women in jazz through workshops, mentorship, and music-making.
**JUNE 20 – TYREEK MCDOLE LIVE at the Carver Theatre. This will be an unforgettable evening with a multi-award-winning Haitian American vocalist whose rich baritone and soulful artistry will capture audiences across the country. McDole transforms each performance into a powerful space for reflection, connection and collective experience.
**JUNE 28 – EXCELSIOR BAND, 5 p.m., at the Carver Theatre for the Sunday Series – Jazz on 4th.
COMING SOON…
**MARCH 29 – SPRING FESTIVAL at Railroad Park, 1 – 4 p.m. for families with food and laughter. There will food trucks, Easter eggs, photos with the Easter bunny, music and more. Take your basket.
**APRIL 11 – YARD SALE, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Sardis Missionary Baptist Church, 1615 4th Court W, supporting the youth ministry.
**APRIL 29 – MAY 3 – BLUES TRAVELER BAND TO PERFORM AT THE REGIONS TRADITIONS – Get Ready to Rock on May 2 with the Blues Traveler on Hole 10 at the White Claw Watering Hole. The Regions Tradition Golf Tournament is April 29 – May 3 at the Greystone Golf & Country Club.
**MAY 30 – MAGIC CITY CLARINET FESTIVAL – The 3rd Magic City Clarinet Festival is 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Birmingham Museum of Art. There will be concerts, master classes and competition with registration at 10:30 a.m. and classes at 11 a.m. Contact: director@bhammusicclub.org or 205-253-1313, for more.
Well, that’s it. Tell you more ‘next’ time. People, Places and Things by Gwen DeRu is a weekly column. Send your questions, contact info with your events, your things of interest and more to: gwenderu@yahoo.com AND thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com.
