Development Moves Forward at Southtown Site in Birmingham

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July 1, 2024

Edgehill1 — Plans for Edgehill at Southtown Court continue to move forward. (Artist Rendering)

By Valerie Bell | ABC 33/40

Plans for Edgehill at Southtown Court continue to move forward. Residential and commercial development are planned, some of which is already underway at the former site of the Southtown Court public housing community.

Companies working to create a mixed-use, mixed-income development are moving forward with the plans at the property owned by the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District. A ground lease was signed earlier this week which gives Southside Development Company the ability to move forward with construction in the blocks between 24th Street and the Red Mountain Expressway.

The site is expected to have:

800,000 square feet of commercial space for the biomedical innovation corridor (half of that devoted to research and development facilities and the remainder available for innovation partners and medical office space)
50,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space
A 150-200-room hotel
About 250 residential apartment units

“The walkable of the site is very important. The transportation, being close to essential services are very important to us. When you look at these hubs if you will around the country. They are mixed-use, very pedestrian, they have a lot of opportunity to walk out from where you live, from where you work, from where you shop and we are going to provide all of those opportunities,” said Robert Simon, CEO of Corporate Realty.

The first commercial building is expected to be a 150,000-square-foot building at the corner of University Boulevard and 24th Street that will house an incubator for biotech businesses.

“Clearly the commercial aspects of this development, biomedical, biotech and tech hub and all the things we have been working on as a community, leaning into UAB and Southern Research and things they do each and every day. We feel we have a great story to tell, great partners and really excited about the future and what it means for Birmingham and economic development,” said Simon.

Simon said the announcement of UAB acquiring Ascension is ‘really great news’ for them. He believes this strengthens their position.

“As we look to compete in this market, we have a great story to tell. UAB is a significant story in healthcare and research and we need to lean into that as a community, that’s what we are doing,” said Simon. “UAB has a lot of land, they have a lot of projects they are doing. They are, the question is whether they are direct or indirect and we would like to do both. So long-term strategies to play out with them but their direct impact and indirect impact is important to us and we are supportive and look at them as a partner.”

The plans are to develop a Birmingham Biomedical Innovation Corridor. That is possible because of new state legislation that authorized cities to establish research and development corridors to spur investment in innovation-related industries.

The first commercial building is set to go at the corner of 24th Street and University Blvd. (abc3340.com)

“We’ve been at this a while,” said Simon. “The key to this project is making sure we get the right uses on this site, so leading with residential and replacement housing, affordable replacement housing is a key component. As we look at the biomedical, that is process as well which is well underway. We have an application in to become a tech hub. We are hopeful that is met with positive results from the federal government and that will serve our community well.”

The project has been years in the making and the development began with an initial groundbreaking of the affordable residential housing in April of 2023.

“The actual project has been something we’ve been working on for years. Really just the opportunity to work with the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District and the city of Birmingham and subsequently taking a piece of property that has a rich history in our city and trying to be a good steward and working on all the elements that we had to accomplish over the last six years of this project,” said Simon.

Two housing complexes are currently under construction west of 24th Street. Those complexes are said to serve many of the residents who had lived in Southtown Court.

The 60-unit family building is expected to be open in fall of this year, according to BREC Development, which is based in Birmingham. The Benoit Group, an Atlanta-based firm, expects to have the 143-unit senior building complete in March 2025.

“Everything with this project is centered around the community and the housing aspects. The mayor was very clear to us from day one that anyone who wanted to come back did come back and people first and we are very excited about that,” said Simon. “We are going to have transformational residential property, very inclusive residential offerings for every segment so we are excited about that.”

Restaurants, retail and hospitality are part of the plans for the commercial development of the site.

“We’ve got a lot of people looking at the site right now. I don’t want to get too far ahead of myself on announcements but there are some coming,” said Simon. “You want the blend of national and local flavor to come to the development.”

Simon also said there are conversations with national brands as it relates to hotels.

The master plan includes 22 acres.

“I think our overall development strategy will be a 5-7 year development strategy of getting things going. Like every mixed-use major development, you’re always working. It’s like molding clay a little bit, you find the uses and you find the right application for it and how to impact it. There’s a lot of infrastructure we have to put in, parking assets, so we really want to leverage the site,” said Simon. “The whole idea of live work play stay is absolutely the top of our minds.”

Simon said since there is a lot of square footage, it’s something that they have to take their time with, but said people could start seeing cranes in the next 12 months.

City of Birmingham to Encourage Self-Care During July 12 Mental Health Awareness Day

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Birmingham Times

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June 29, 2024

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People with their hands together — The City of Birmingham will join community partners to present Mental Health Awareness Day from Friday at Linn Park. Attendees will be able to engage with experts and discuss mental health. (Adobe Stock)

City of Birmingham

On Friday, July 12, the City of Birmingham will join community partners to present Mental Health Awareness Day in Linn Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees will be able to pick up free resources and discuss mental health, which is a topic many people are often reluctant to address.

This year will be the third year Crystal Mullen-Johnson, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Nurture Alabama, has co-hosted the event with the City of Birmingham to help dismantle the stigma around mental health.

“The goal of this event is to engage in open discussions about mental health and to provide support to those in need,’’ Mullen-Johnson said.

Attendees will be able to talk to mental health experts; enjoy local food trucks and a DJ; have a free depression screening; enjoy free massages; and more. Members of the UAB football team will be present after 12:30 p.m. to sign autographs.

Said Mayor Randall L. Woodfin: “Mental health and wellness are too often ignored in our community. Mental Health Awareness Day is our chance to change that; it’s our opportunity to emphasize the importance of mental health.’’

“Please join us and take the time to learn, to embrace self-care, and to understand that you are worthy in every way.’’

Sometimes, when people are going through a difficult time, they would just appreciate a supportive conversation. They may want to talk about their hurt or pain. But there are times when a friend does not know how to respond. Experts will be available to help direct people on to get help for themselves or others, Mullen-Johnson said.

Speakers on the stage will include:

Alexandria Means, a domestic violence expert
Beverly Johnson from the Alabama Department of Mental Health
Dr. Hernando Carter, a general practitioner

Some of the interactive sessions will include:

A session on how breathing techniques can help improve responses to trauma triggers with yoga therapist Jamella Strode
Activities for adults from the City’s Park and Recreation Department
Depression screenings with a licensed professional counselor
Chair massages

For more information, visit www.nurturebham.com.

Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough Named Interim President of Talladega College

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Birmingham Times

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June 28, 2024

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Talladega College

TALLADEGA, Ala. – The Talladega College Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough as the interim president of the institution, effective immediately. Dr. Kimbrough brings a wealth of experience, a distinguished academic background, and a proven track record of leadership in higher education to his new role. The transformational leader has committed to serving at least one year to help the college establish stability on all fronts.

Dr. Kimbrough, widely respected for his dynamic leadership and innovative approach to education, holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia, a master’s degree from Miami University in Ohio, and a Ph.D. from Georgia State University. He has served in various influential roles in the higher education space, including president of Dillard University and Philander Smith College (now University), where he was instrumental in enhancing academic programs, increasing enrollment, and strengthening community partnerships.

Rica Lewis-Payton, ’81, chairwoman of the Talladega College Board of Trustees, expressed her gratitude to Dr. Edward L. Hill Jr., who served as the acting interim president following the recent resignation of Dr. Gregory J. Vincent, the 21st president of the College.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Hill for his dedication and stewardship during this
transitional period for Talladega College. His leadership has been invaluable in maintaining the continuity and integrity of our institution,” Lewis-Payton said.

Chairwoman Lewis-Payton is enthusiastic to welcome Kimbrough to the 157-year-old institution, noting the significance of his appointment.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Kimbrough join Talladega College as our interim president. His
extensive experience and visionary leadership are exactly what we need to navigate this period of transition and lay the groundwork for a prosperous future. Dr. Kimbrough’s commitment to serving for the next year will be pivotal in establishing stability and fostering growth across all areas of our college,” Lewis-Payton said.

Dr. Kimbrough is married to attorney Adria Nobles Kimbrough, a 1997 graduate of Talladega College. They are proud parents of two children, Lydia Nicole and Benjamin Barack. Their connection to the college community underscores their commitment to the institution’s success.

As Talladega College embarks on this new chapter, the campus community eagerly anticipates Dr. Kimbrough’s positive impact, which will further the College’s mission of academic excellence and community engagement.

Rickwood In Review: Birmingham’s Historic Week In Photos

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Birmingham Times

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June 27, 2024

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BIRMINGHAM, AL - JUNE 18: Willie Mays Scholars pose for photo during the Topps MLB at Rickwood Promotional Tour at Birmingham Civil Rights Institute on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 in Birmingham, Alabama. (Photo by Russell Kilgore Jr./MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Times Staff

The hits keep on coming for the City of Birmingham one week after hosting its first ever Major League baseball game.

FOX Sports reported “MLB at Rickwood” had an average viewership of 2,346,000 its most-watched Major League Thursday night regular-season game since Sept. 22, 2022 with a viewership 41 percent higher than last year’s average for Thursday night regular-season games.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin told the Birmingham Times on Tuesday the city has never hosted a sporting event of this magnitude.

“Whether it’s the [2022] World Games … the [1996] Olympic soccer or other major events that we’ve had, nothing has come to this,” he said. “It was multi-ethnic, it was multi-racial, and it was multi-generational.”

Here’s a closer look in photos.

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Woodfin: World Saw ‘Best Version’ of Birmingham on Display During Salute to the Negro Leagues

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Birmingham Times

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June 27, 2024

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Mayor Randall Woodfin speaks during the Willie Mays mural ribbon cutting ceremony in downtown Birmingham on Wednesday, June 19, one day after Mays died. (Photo by Parker Freedman/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times

Much has been said over the past week about MLB at Rickwood Field Salute to the Negro Leagues in Birmingham and the city’s top elected official is still in awe.

“In one week, Birmingham, Alabama was mentioned over 1,000 times on broadcast television in a positive light and that doesn’t account for the millions of impressions [on social media]” Mayor Randall Woodfin told the Birmingham Times. “ … that was the first time in a long time people saw Birmingham past the 1963 [Civil Rights marches], they saw it past black and white and they actually saw it in 4K.”

The game played on June 20 between the St. Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants was the first National or American League regular-season game played in Alabama and concluded a week of activities that highlighted the significance of the Negro Leagues in baseball’s history.

The contest was played in historic Rickwood Field, the oldest baseball park in America and showcased “a celebration of the past while incorporating the Negro Leagues into the present,” Woodfin said.

The mayor echoed many, local and national, when he said the city has never hosted a sporting event of this magnitude.

“Whether it’s the [2022] World Games … the [1996] Olympic soccer or other major events that we’ve had, nothing has come to this,” he said. “It was multi-ethnic, it was multi-racial, and it was multi-generational. It wasn’t just the Negro League players who were honored, but it was our elders who got a chance to come.”

What made it more special, he said, was there was a time when those same elders would visit the stadium “and when Black players were playing, they had to sit on one side and when it was white players playing, they had to sit on a different side.”

The mayor applauded MLB for its outreach that touched nearly every sector of the city from Children’s of Alabama; Negro Southern League Museum; Regions Field; A.G. Gaston Boys and Girls Club (AGGBGC); the Carver Theatre and other venues.

The festivities were as much about the “investments in the future” as it was the past, he said.

“This city has a rich history as it relates to baseball, particularly around the Negro Leagues, [look at the] massive impact of Rickwood Field and the players that came through and made history, what better way to honor that than making sure the next generation not only knows that history but is impacted by today’s game.”

The mayor was at more than a dozen events including at AGGBGC where Commissioner of Baseball Rob Manfred Jr. spoke to club members.

“This is just not about the past but connecting it to the future, the next generation to make sure America’s past time is literally passed to the next generation,” Woodfin said. “You can’t exclude inner city kids and you can’t exclude little Black boys.”

Summing up the past week, he said, “You want to talk about Birmingham being the best version of itself, you saw that in live and living color and on display June 20.”

Mi Pueblo Supermarket CEO Dulce Rivera Follows in Her Father’s Footsteps

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Birmingham Times

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June 27, 2024

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Dulce 2 — Dulce Rivera, CEO of Mi Pueblo Supermarket, oversees what started as a small family business in Pelham in 2005 and is now one of the largest multicultural stores in Alabama with two locations in Homewood and Pelham. (Provded)

By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times

Dulce Rivera, CEO of Mi Pueblo Supermarket, has always been one to speak candidly and confidently.

“… I was like 15 or 16 and I was in the store (Mi Pueblo) and the manager at the time was in the produce section and I was just talking to him. We were just making conversation and he asked me what I would like to do when I grow up and I told him ‘I would love to run the business.’ He looked at me and he said, ‘I don’t think this is an industry for women’ and I told him I feel differently. I remember telling my dad and he encouraged me. He said I could be whatever I want. I have the potential to do whatever I can,” said Riveria.

Her dad was right. Rivera now oversees what started as a small family business in Pelham in 2005 and is now one of the largest multicultural stores in Alabama with two locations in Homewood and Pelham.

Not only did her dad provide encouragement but also something else as well. “My father is the one that is very much entrepreneurial. He’s got that nose. He’s got that spirit…,” she said.

And Riveria, 31, always knew she’d be good at the job, recalling every aptitude test she’s ever taken saying, “I would be good at managerial position. I always kind of knew what I wanted to do or hoped to do.”

She remembers how her father, Joel Rivera, a former construction worker, bought his first store. He was making a special meal that required cactus.

“He went to the market to buy it (cactus) and it was outrageously priced. He was livid and believed that quality products like that should still be offered at affordable prices. On his way home, he saw there was a building for rent so he pulled over, went into the parking lot, and got the phone number to call. By the next morning, he had a walkthrough. It took about a year to get it up and running,” said Rivera, who was not surprised her dad made the purchase.

“I’m the kind of person who needs a plan A and then I need a plan B in case plan A fails. My dad is not like that. He just jumps into the abyss,” she said.

“Perfect Transition”

Born in Houston, Texas, Rivera, and her family moved to Alabaster, Alabama when she was five years old. “When I started school at Thompson Elementary, I was the only little Mexican girl in the entire school that did not speak English,” said Rivera.

As she continued her journey through elementary school, Rivera said her English improved more and more each year with help from teachers.

When she reached the third grade, her family moved to Calera, Alabama where she would eventually graduate from Calera High School in 2011.

She thought she wanted to pursue a career in teaching but determined it would be too stressful. “[Teaching] was always in the back of my head,” she said.

Rivera is a first- generation college graduate from Samford University where she studied business and finished in 2017.

College wasn’t easy, Rivera recalled. “The adjustment going from high school to college. I was a part time student for a couple of semesters, so it took me a little longer to do all the credits… The important thing is not to give up.”

While in school Riveria worked part time for her parent’s radio station, La Jefe and La Jefa, in marketing and advertising. The Mexican radio station can be heard on 98.3 FM, 93.1 FM, 1220 AM y 1500 AM. Her mother, Isabel Rivera, is the owner, and serves as the president.

“I was a sales rep. I wanted to step away from family business and go into a small business or semi-corporate world. My thing was getting some experience first and then come into the family business later but a month before I graduated, a position opened in the bookkeeping department at our grocery store, and my dad was like ‘please come [work with us]. It was the perfect transition.”

“I’m at the store quite a bit. I’m so involved with growing our company. I work a lot with personnel and HR department.”

Becoming one of the Birmingham Business Journal’s 40 under 40 was, “unbelievable. I couldn’t believe it,” said Rivera.

Last year she was the Alabama’s Black Women Roundtable Community Spotlight recipient.

Last October, Rivera was a part of the Alabama Leadership Initiative 2023-2024 class and in 2020 she was named Young Professional of the Year for the Minority Business Awards.

“Very Blessed”

“I’ve been very blessed, and I don’t know why sometimes. I’ll get an award for something, and I just feel so humble.”

As the oldest of three, two brothers and a sister, Rivera says they are “tight knit.”

“We all work together… We’ll have lunch. On Fridays we’ll have dinner. We spend the weekends with our parents, especially during the summer and the holiday times. We travel a lot together. “

When she’s not working, Rivera said she loves to travel, read, go for walks, and watching reality TV shows like The Masked Singer and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

“I’m always looking for a quick trip. I’m almost never in town. I love going to Florida, especially Miami. My favorite place would have to be Mexico, anywhere in Mexico. It’s so diverse in culture and it’s something my mom growing up would always tell us,”Said Rivera.

Locations: 3060 Pelham Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124 and 216 Green Springs Hwy, Homewood, AL 35209 Contact:(205) 685-1446 or info@mipueblosupermarket.com Hours: Monday to Sunday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Should People of Color Wear Sunscreen When Outside?

By

Birmingham Times

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June 27, 2024

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Being aware of daily scorching temperatures is important especially since the summer season officially began last week on June 20. With soaring temperatures and uncomfortable conditions, it is crucial that you prepare yourselves. Preparation is the key when outside enjoying the summer sun.

Last week we reviewed the different types of Ultraviolet Radiation Rays (UVR), possible dangerous effects and how one should protect themselves. This article will be an extension of the original conversation, but with a twist. This week we will discuss the impact UVR has or doesn’t have on the skin of people with melanin (color).

Melanin CAN NOT absorb all the UVR, and some people do not have much melanin in their skin. (Adobe Stock)

In most cases, UVR reacts with a chemical in the skin called melanin. This is the first defense against the sun. Melanin absorbs the dangerous UV rays that can do serious skin damage. But melanin CAN NOT absorb all the UVR, and some people do not have much melanin in their skin. The three major harmful effects of too much UVR exposure are:

• Sunburn: a sunburn occurs when the amount of UVR exceeds the protection that the skin’s melanin can provide resulting in skin damage that causes pain, redness and blistering.

• Photoaging: premature aging by excessive sun exposure which causes the skin to become thick and leathery over time resulting in early freckling, wrinkling, loss of collagen and widening of small blood vessels in the skin. Liver spots may occur in later years.

• Skin cancer: millions of people are diagnosed with skin cancer in the U.S. annually. Skin cancer becomes more common as people get older. Skin damage actually happens at an early age, so start protecting ones skin at childhood. Sun cancer can be preventable.
Studies have revealed that a large portion of the Hispanic and African American population in the United States regularly DO NOT wear sunscreen or take steps to protect themselves from the sun. However, no matter one’s skin tone, ALL skin tones are susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, skin cancer, and other health issues as a result of too much sun exposure. These other health issues may include cataracts and other eye problems.

Skin color is determined by the amount of melanin in the skin, melanin can only provide a natural sun protection factor (SPF) of up to 13. This does allow dark-skinned individuals some intrinsic protection. Yet this added degree of protection against UVR for dark-skinned people provides a minimal protective benefit against photodamage and photoaging. Most importantly, high levels of melanin in the skin DO NOT replace the need for sunscreen.

Minority populations are often diagnosed with more advanced stage disease and are more likely to experience fewer positive outcomes. Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the most common skin cancer in patients with dark skin. Therefore, being proactive in Keeping an Eye on Safety relative to sun protection is essential.

Anti-Litter Campaign Aims to Increase Awareness, Empower Students

By

Birmingham Times

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June 27, 2024

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By Holly Lynne Killian | Special to The Times

“Littering is stupid! Be a litter quitter!” This is the blunt but honest message that the Litter Quitters Committee is hoping to leave with Jefferson County high school students and its citizens. Now in its seventh year, this anti-litter campaign aims to increase awareness about the negative effects of litter and empower students to become more actively involved in clean water promotion.

Based on a Keep America Beautiful study, young adults aged 18 to 35 are three times more likely to litter than older adults. That is why the Committee has chosen to focus their attention on high school students, stopping bad habits before they are formed.

As part of the Litter Quitters Campaign, the Committee hosts a 12-day anti-litter video competition inviting all public high schools within Jefferson County, AL to submit one video. To add a layer of stormwater education, schools only competed against other schools in their stormwater drainage basin. This splits Jefferson County into 3 basins – Locust Fork, Valley Creek, and the Cahaba River. The videos with the most “likes” win 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place in each of the 3 watershed drainage basins. “It is always fun to see how creative the students can be from year to year and how they incorporate trending events. It makes for an exciting competition!” says Hana Berres, Litter Quitters Committee member.

The Committee is excited to announce the official 1^st place winners of the 2024 video competition. They are as follows: Locust Fork Basin-Minor High School, Cahaba River Basin-Homewood High School, and the Valley Creek Basin-Oak Grove High School. The Committee also awards a school whose video demonstrates both great technical skills as well as a great water protection message. This year, Minor High School was awarded the “Best Message” award. Congrats to all these students and teachers! They worked very hard this year and the Committee is proud of all their work.

Ultimately, the Litter Quitters Committee hopes to see a significant reduction in litter along our roads and waterways. Most people do not realize that litter does not stay where it was dropped. It gets washed by rain into the stormwater drainage system and carried to the nearest waterway—the same waterways we fish, swim, and get our drinking water. Litter dirties our environment, costs a lot to clean up, lowers property values, and is even linked to the increased incidences of crime lowering the quality of life. This Campaign seeks to leave a lasting impression about the negative consequences of tossing trash out of vehicles or dropping it on the ground not only to the students that participate in these video competitions, but to everyone in and around Jefferson County. We aim to change their behaviors and to make sure trash is properly disposed.

Help stop the littering epidemic in Jefferson County. Visit www.litterquitters.org to watch the students’ videos, see this year’s television PSA and see a listing of local volunteer roadside litter cleanups.

Become a Litter Quitter today!

Anything But Ordinary Fest, Coming to Birmingham for First Time, Combines Indie Musicians and Local Artists

By

Birmingham Times

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June 27, 2024

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ABO 1a — Birmingham’s lively month of activities continue on Friday with the Anything But Ordinary Fest also known as ABOFest at WorkPlay from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Provided)

By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times

Birmingham’s lively month of activities – Pride Festivities, MLB at Rickwood – continue on Friday with the Anything But Ordinary Fest also known as ABOFest at WorkPlay from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The festival in collaboration with Sloss Tech – coming to Birmingham for the first time – aims to be a catalyst for community engagement and cultural celebration with a focus on indie musicians and local artistry.

Performances will be held across two stages – the Main Theatre Stage and the Canteen Stage – featuring a lineup including Domani, son of legendary rapper T.I., and Nickelus F, known not only for his solo work but also for his collaborations with major artists and contributing to some of Drake’s early hits.

The inspiration for the festival came last year after the success of “Something In The Water,” a three-day, Virgina-based music festival spearheaded by music superstar Pharrell Williams.

“So last year we threw a festival … and put 50 different Virginia artists on stage. We kind of wanted to evolve and separate and build the brand on our own,” said Will Keck, one of the organizers and owner of theMSQshop, a Virginia-based group launched in 2021 that specializes in creative project management, branding, graphic design, videography, and events.

Keck said he kept asking, “How do we make the [festival] more impactful? How do we make it more community driven and how do we combine the best of indy and local talent with national talent? That’s where we are now, and this is just a part of our long-term plan to grow it even bigger.“

The festival will have a twist thanks to the multi-talented Carey Fountain, creator of Vibes and Virtue, an interactive conversation-based puzzle game for families, couples on date nights, and guests.

After entering, participants will receive a puzzle piece card and tokens. Throughout the evening, they’ll interact with fellow attendees to guess their answers to questions, earning puzzle pieces along the way. Those who successfully complete their puzzle pieces and aid in revealing the final image, can win up to $100 in redeemable credits at the Vibes & Virtues store. This encourages festival-goers to connect, explore, and dive into conversations, enhancing the overall festival experience.

ABOFest will celebrate the city’s creative spirit and highlight local talent aim to enrich Birmingham’s cultural landscape. Performers include Gina Tollese, DJ New Era, Chaz French, and others.

For tickets visit seetickets.us/abofest and follow ABO’s Facebook event page for regular updates and exclusive content.

PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS

By

Birmingham Times

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June 27, 2024

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PPT0627 1 — The Queens of R&B. (Provided)

BY GWEN DERU | The Birmingham Times

TODAY…

**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!

**ALABAMA BLAZIN BINGO, 6 p.m. at Overtime Grill and Bar.

**FILM – 7 p.m. at the Sidewalk Film.

**JOMBI with GOOD DIEHL & TERRY OHMS at the Nick.

**EUNICE ELLIOTT with OPEN-MIC THURSDAYS at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**3RD THURSDAY BLUES JAM, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**SUBSTRATE BINGO at Saturn.

**THIRST TRAP THURSDAY, 5 p.m. at 2400 7th Avenue South.

**LIVE BAND KARAOKE hosted by ELLE JAI at Perfect Note.

**KIKSTART at Water Mark in Bessemer with Free Food Boxes, 9 a.m.

**COMPUTER CLASSES AT THE FIVE POINTS WEST LIBRARY every Tuesday and
Thursday.

**EACH AND EVERY THURSDAY HAPPY HOUR, 5-8 p.m. at D’ZIRE with SPECIALS.

**THIRSTY THURSDAYS at D’ZIRE Bar and Lounge.

**KARAOKE, 5-9 p.m. at Courtyard Alabaster Bar and Grill.

**THIRD THURSDAY BLUES JAM, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**TASTEMAKER THURSDAY – Every Thursday at Blaze Ultra Lounge, 228 Roebuck Plaza Drive, 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. with DJ Ace Twon (95.7 JAMZ) in the mix hosted by Audio Life and GMC Promo.

**THIRSTY THURSDAY at Hookah 114 17th Street No.

**TEQUILA THURSDAY at the Vibe Bar & Lounge.

**THROW BACK THURSDAY at Tha Vibe Bar & Lounge, 3801 Richard Arrington, Jr., Blvd.

**FILMMAKER HAPPY HOUR- Every 3rd Thursday, at Sidewalk Film Fest. Meet with other filmmakers and discuss your newest projects.

**EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT KARAOKE, 6:30 at Ruth’s Place hosted by LADY WOO and with DJ SHAY.

FRIDAY…
**GARDENDALE SUMMER JAM FAMILY RESOURCE FAIR, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Gardendale Civic Center, 857 Main St.

**EVERY FRIDAY – STORYTIME AT THE GARDENS, Every Friday, 10 – 11 a.m. FREE at BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS.

**BOB MARLEY DAY CELEBRATION – A CARIBBEAN JERK FESTIVAL, Noon – 6 p.m. at Linn Park. For more, 205-834-6938.

**FRIDAY NIGHT WRITES, 8 – 11 p.m. at 7611 1st Avenue North.

**LADIES SOIRAVE at The Nick.

**SUBSTRATE BINGO at Saturn.

**EVERY FRIDAY, R&B at The Chandelier, 212 Cahaba Valley Road in Pelham with DJ MANISH mixing live. FREE Entry.

**EACH AND EVERY FRIDAY HAPPY HOUR, 5-8 p.m. at D’ZIRE with SPECIALS.

**LIT FRIDAYS WITH RIPCORD, 8 p.m. – 2 a.m. at 4501 Gary Avenue in Fairfield.

**AFRO CARIBBEAN NIGHTS (Every Friday Night) at Ash’s on 2nd, 7 p.m. until with Reggae, Afro Beats, Dancehall and Top 40 Hits.

**FIREBALL FRIDAY at Tha Vibe Bar & Lounge.

**FRIDAY NIGHT RAP, Every 1st and 3rd Friday at Crescent Cultural Center, 1121 Tuscaloosa Avenue, SW.

**SOUTHERN SOUL BLUES, 7:30 p.m. featuring KING GEORGE, POKEY BEAR, RONNIE BELL, J-WONN and host MC LIGHTFOOT at the BJCC CONCERT HALL.

SATURDAY…
**AUTISM + NEURODIVERSE, a friendly skateboard event at City Walk Bham State Park, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. by the Askate Foundation with skateboarding, sensory games, stations, art, music, music, food. Roller skates are welcome. For ages 4 and up. Registration is required.

**EVERY SATURDAY at BIRDSONG FARMERS MARKET, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., 2824 5th Avenue South, at Automatic Seafood.

**BLOOM WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED, 3-5 p.m. at the 5 Points West Library on Avenue W. This is a National hook-up of Black Women Founder’s Day Celebration. For more, contact 204-516-6277 and vernessabarnes54@gmail.com.

**WINE DOWN HAPPY HOUR, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Saferoom Lounge Bar.

**EACH AND EVERY SATURDAY HAPPY HOUR, 5-8 p.m. at D’ZIRE with SPECIALS.

**EVERY SATURDAY SOLD OUT – THE SATURDAYS JUMP OFF, 10 p.m. at Onyx of Bham, 615 8th Avenue West.

**LADIES SOIRAVE at The Nick.

**RUN IT BACK SATURDAYS at Platinum of Birmingham.

**DIVAS TO THE DANCEFLOOR featuring TONY RODIO at the Saturn.

SUNDAY…
**WORSHIP AT THE SIXTH, 9:30 a.m. at Sixth Avenue Baptist Church.

**EVERY SUNDAY – SOUL FOOD SUNDAYS, 1-5 p.m. (Every Sunday) at 1918 Catering, 197 Vulcan Road.

**SUNDAY FUN DAY at DZIRE BAR AND LOUNGE, 4120 3rd Avenue South. Call 205-266-2594 for more.

**SUNDAY FUNDAY for the grown Folks Kickback at Tha Vibe Bar & Lounge.

**EVERY 3rd SUNDAY JAZZ JAM SESSION, 4-8 p.m. at the Ferus on 41st.

**CITY WIDE PRAYER MEETING, Every 4th Sunday, 4 p.m. for one hour at Birmingham Easonian Baptist Bible College. The Lord’s Supper will be served and hosted by the Knights of Pythias & Court of Calanthe.

**GW HENDERSON, LOWER HYBRID, AND SOUL DESERT at The Nick.

**JENNY LEWIS at Iron City.

MONDAY…

**BIRMINGHAM BAND STAND at The Nick.

**RNB MONDAYS, 10 p.m. at Onyx of Bham, 615 Eighth Avenue West.

TUESDAY…
**KIKSTART at Water Mark in Bessemer, 9 a.m. with Free Food Boxes…until all gone.

**COMPUTER CLASSES AT THE FIVE POINTS WEST LIBRARY every Tuesday and
Thursday.

**DIAPER GIVEAWAY every Tuesday, 10 a.m. at the Titusville Library.

**EVERY TUESDAY SPECIAL TUESDAYS with Food, Drinks Specials at 1918 Catering, 197 Vulcan Road.

**EVERY TUESDAY – TUESDAY NIGHT TRAILS 5:45 p.m. at Red Mountain Park.

**EVERY TUESDAY is SOUL CAFÉ Happy Hour introducing the Soul Café Happy Hour, 5:30-9:30 p.m. with Soul Goodies, Soul Spirits and Soul Music including $5 Titos and Redmont, at The Vault.

**JOSE CARR’S JAZZ JAM, 7:30 p.m. at True Story Brewing Company 5510 Crestwood Blvd.

**CARIBBEAN NIGHTS with Reggae, Caribbean and Island Vibes, 9 p.m. – until… with DJ Serious Mixing and hosted by KJ and MANNY at The Vault, downtown.

**TASTY TUESDAYS at Platinum of Birmingham.

**BIRMINGHAM SONGWRITER’S ROUND with Host SUSANNAH SEALES at the Nick.

**KAN KAN, OLDSTAR, CASH LANGDON and GAWSHOCK at Saturn.

WEDNESDAY…
**INTERFAITH NOONDAY PRAYER SERVICES, every Wednesday, at Linn Park, in Downtown Birmingham.

**WORKOUT WEDNESDAY at Five Points West Library at 10:30 a.m. for chair yoga and other chair exercises.

**WEDNESDAY NIGHT POOL TOURNAMENT AND KARAOKE NIGHT, 5 p.m. at
Carter’s Hookah Lounge and Grill, hosted by Jo Sweetz with the Pool Tournament, at 7 p.m. and Karaoke at 8 p.m.

**EVERY WEDNESDAY, YOU, ME & RNB, 6 p.m. at 2206 Bar & Lounge, 2206 31st Street, with DJ You, Me & Playlist.

**D’ZIRE WEDNESDAYS, EACH AND EVERY WEDNESDAY with Free Mimosas, 8- 10 p.m. with DJ GORGEOUS in the Mix at 4120 Third Avenue South.

**WEDNESDAYS WEEKLY JAZZ JAM, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing Company, 5510 Crestwood Blvd. Food until 9 p.m., Music until 10 p.m. and Drink until 11 p.m.

**EVERY 4th WEDNESDAY at FACE’S LOUNGE KARAOKE hosted by ARETTA, 6:30 p.m. at 7070 Aaron Aronov Dr. in Fairfield.

**BOOZEE, BREELY & SOUNDS IN MY HEAD at The Nick.

**BLAQUE HOUSE at The Nick, House Music EVERY WEDNESDAY with DJSteve BLAQUE at The Nick.

**CASHIER & STAB at Saturn.

NEXT THURSDAY…
**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!

**ALABAMA BLAZIN BINGO, 6 p.m. at Overtime Grill and Bar.

**FILM – 7 p.m. at the Sidewalk Film.

**MR. ACTION AND THE PSYCHOACTIVE ATTRACTION at the Nick.

**3RD THURSDAY BLUES JAM, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

NEXT FRIDAY…
**EVERY FRIDAY – STORYTIME AT THE GARDENS, Every Friday, 10 – 11 a.m. FREE at BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS.

**JAMMIN’ DJAY LAMONT + FRIENDS at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**TRIBUTO A VICENTE FERNANDEZ CON EL KECHECHENTE at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**FRIDAY NIGHT WRITES, 8 – 11 p.m. at 7611 1st Avenue North.

**OXMOOR at The Nick.

**POP PLANET: CHARLI XCX RAVE at Saturn.

FOR MUSIC LOVERS…

**THE QUEENS OF R&B CONCERT IN BIRMINGHAM – The Legendary groups XSCAPE and SWV with Special Guests MYA, TOTAL and 702 have reunited for a tour that will be an unforgettable experience filled with R&B music and stellar performances in 30 cities across the country. Birmingham will host the QUEENS OF R&B on Wednesday, July 10 at the BJCC Legacy Arena. MONAMI ENTERTAINMENT and LIVE NATION will bring the fans an incredible performance by the QUEENS OF R&B after 702, Total, Mya, SWV and Xscape have all weathered storms. Founder and CEO of Monami Entertainment, MONA SCOTT-YOUNG spoke to the power of women to overcome adversity and emerge triumphant. The tour kicks off today in Concord, California at the Toyota Pavilion and will continue across the country with stops in New York City at Madison Square Garden and in Los Angeles at Kia Forum.

**TASTY TUESDAYS – ALUMNI S2N JULY LINEUP at Platinum of Birmingham on
July 9 – Woodlawn, July 16 – Huffman, July 23 – West End, July 25 – Jess Lanier and July 30 – McAdory.

**JULY 13 – MAGIC CITY RISING STARS – Birmingham’s talent event of the year at the Boutwell Auditorium.

FOR SPORTS LOVERS…AND MORE…

**HOOP FEST 3 ON 3 SHERIFF MARK PETTWAY’S COMMUNITY TOUR, next Saturday, at Westwood Baptist Church, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and July 13 at City Walk, 4 – 8 p.m. Teams should be 18-35 years of age/men and women. The winning team at each tournament will win $2,000. One team cannot win more than one tournament. For more, go to jeffcohoopfest.com.

**SHOES & BREWS CORNHOLE TOURNEY by the Firehouse Ministries, Saturday, 1- 5 p.m. at Ghost Train Brewing on First Avenue South is hosting its 7th Annual event of fun with a little competition to raise money for the Firehouse Shelter and refill the shoe closet. There will be food trucks, raffle prizes and a silent auction with great items.

AROUND THE STATE…

**JULY 3 – FIRE ON The WATER, 5 p.m. in Pelham at 200 Terrace Drive.

**JULY 4 – SAND MOUNTAIN POTATO FESTIVAL, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. in Henager, Ala. celebrates the Fourth of July kicking the day off with an exciting parade. Activities throughout the day include a cornhole tournament, an antique car and tractor show and games for the whole family at Henagar Park… FREE.

FOR OUTDOORS LOVERS…

**JULY 4 – JULY 4th CONCERT, at Legion Field featuring MOSE STOVALL, CHUBB ROCK and DANA DANE starting at 5 p.m. with food trucks, voter registration/Census education. FREE ENTRY. Bring your lawn chairs for FREE Family Fun.

**JULY 4 – A picnic celebrating the 4th of July with the Southeastern Outings, 6:30 p.m. at Bartow Arena Park. Take your chairs, blankets, picnic supplies and meet to enjoy it all. Call 205-631-4680 for more.

**JULY 4 – 4th of July Band Concert followed by City of Birmingham Fireworks, 7 p.m. at Bartow Arena Park. The UAB Summer Band auditioned and was selected to be musicians in the concert band.

AT THE BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS…

**JULY 2 – THYME TO READ, 4 p.m. reading from “The Woods of Fannin County” by Janisse Ray. FREE and open to the public.

**JULY 6 – TANABATA FESTIVAL, 9 a.m. – Noon is a Japanese festival celebrating the alignment of two stars normally separated by the Milky Way. FREE and Open to the public.

**JULY 9 – THE EVOLUTION OF STONE HOLLOW

**JULY AND AUGUST – Enjoy the artwork of WILLIAM DARBY on display in the gallery outside the Library.

FOR SPORTS LOVERS…AND MORE…

**HOOP FEST 3 ON 3 SHERIFF MARK PETTWAY’S COMMUNITY TOUR, next Saturday, at Westwood Baptist Church, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and July 13 at City Walk, 4 – 8 p.m. Teams should be 18-35 years of age/men and women. The winning team at each tournament will win $2,000. One team cannot win more than one tournament. For more, go to jeffcohoopfest.com.

**SHOES & BREWS CORNHOLE TOURNEY by the Firehouse Ministries, Saturday, 1- 5 p.m. at Ghost Train Brewing on First Avenue South is hosting its 7th Annual event of fun with a little competition to raise money for the Firehouse Shelter and refill the shoe closet. There will be food trucks, raffle prizes and a silent auction with great items.

HAPPENINGS AT SIXTH AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH…

**SUMMER AT THE SIXTH, now through July 26, 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. for Rising K – 6th grades with field trips, film gardening, dance, sports, business, fitness, friends and more. For more, go to: www.sixthavebaptist.com/childrensministries.

**WORSHIP SERVICE every Sunday.

**EVERY MONDAY MORNING MEDITATION WITH PASTOR CANTELOW, 7:15 a.m. Contact the church at (205) 321-1136 or (205) 321-1137.

**CHILDREN’S CHURCH & COLLISION CHURCH, each First Sunday at 9:30 a.m. for K-5th (Children’s Church), 6-12th (Collision).

AT GIFTED CITY CHURCH… EVERY SUNDAY!
**GIFTED CITY CHURCH, Sunday Worship is 10 a.m. at 228 Second Avenue North in the Downtown, City Center. Join the one-hour service with children’s service and complimentary coffee and tea. For more: info@thegiftpad.org.

COMING SOON…
**JULY 10 – THE QUEENS OF R&B: XSCAPE & SWV at the BJCC.

**JULY 11 – CHRIS BROWN – THE 11:11 TOUR at Legacy Arena.

**SEPTEMBER 28 – MAXWELL: THE SERENADE TOUR at the Legacy Arena.

**OCTOBER 5 – THE REUNION TOUR 2024 with KIRK FRANKLIN, YOLANDA ADAMS, FRED HAMMOND, MARVIN SAPP & THE CLARK SISTERS with special guest KIERRA SHEARD-KELLY at the Legacy Arena.

**OCTOBER 13 – 85 SOUTH: BIG BUSINESS COMEDY TOUR at the Legacy Arena.

Well, that’s it. Tell you more ‘next’ time. People, Places and Things by Gwen DeRu is a weekly column. Send events, your things of interest and more to: gwenderu@yahoo.com and thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com.