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New Connected Learning Center Bridges Digital Divide at Birmingham’s A.G. Gaston Club

By
Birmingham Times
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AT&T has opened a Connected Learning Center at the A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club. (City of Birmingham)

From Wire Reports

The A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club and AT&T have partnered to open a new Connected Learning Center, bringing vital digital resources to our community.

Thanks to a $50,000 contribution from AT&T, the center now offers free high-speed internet, Wi-Fi, and computer access, along with educational tools and complimentary digital literacy courses.

“This Connected Learning Center is a step forward in closing the digital divide,” said Birmingham Mayor Randall L. Woodfin.

AT&T has committed $5 billion by 2030 to narrow the digital divide and help 25 million people get and stay connected to affordable, high-speed internet access and digital resources.

A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club is home to a new Connected Learning Center thanks to AT&T. (City of Birmingham)

“AT&T has always been about connecting people, and our Connected Learning Centers are creating bridges to opportunities,” said Andrew Bailey, director of Corporate Responsibility, AT&T. “Whether you’re a student researching and applying to college, an individual seeking career growth, or a family learning about mortgages, CLCs provide the resources to help you succeed in an increasingly digital world.”

Since 2021, AT&T has collaborated with nonprofit organizations to launch 64 CLCs across 19 states, serving over 87,000 people. The newly announced 25 CLCs, including A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club will bring AT&T closer to its goal of opening 100 CLCs by the end of 2027.

As AT&T marches towards its goal, the commitment to digital literacy, accessibility, and community support remains unwavering, showcasing the power of connectivity and the endless possibilities it brings to every corner of the country.

Dell Technologies is donating computers with integrated audio and webcams as well.

AT&T has opened a Connected Learning Center at the A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club. (City of Birmingham)

Ready for Marching Band Camp this Summer? Tips to Keep Safe

By
Birmingham Times
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UAB students participate in the 2023 Marching Blazers Band Camp on the school's practice field. (UAB)

By Shannon Thomason | UAB News

With a little preparation and effort, students can make the most of camp and have funBand camp is a rite of passage for students who want to be in marching band. Students must practice drills repeatedly, with intense focus on learning the music and the moves. It is famously challenging and, much like any athletic team camp, means long days and strenuous physical activity, outside in the sun or rain.

Band directors with the University of Alabama at Birmingham Marching Blazers have many years of experience training student-musicians. With a little preparation and effort, students can make the most of camp and have fun. Here are their preseason-training tips:

Prepare your body: Marching Blazers Band Director Sean Murray, Ph.D., recommends gradual exposure to the elements. Spend 30-60 minutes outdoors daily in the heat.

“Start with light activity like walking and stretching, and gradually increase intensity by jogging or marching and playing your instrument,” Murray said. Stretch before and after rehearsals to avoid soreness. Always choose closed-toe athletic shoes, not sandals or flip-flops.

Hydration conditioning: Begin hydrating days in advance — hydration begins the night before, not on the day of training.

“Bring a large, refillable water bottle, or even two, and drink water consistently throughout the day,” Murray said. “Include electrolytes like sports drinks or electrolyte tablets if you sweat heavily. Keep in mind that sugary drinks can cause dehydration. Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during and after rehearsals.”

Optimize nutrition: Eat balanced meals with complex carbs, lean protein, fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can make you sluggish in the heat. Include potassium-rich foods such as bananas, oranges and spinach to support hydration. Pack healthy snacks like granola bars, trail mix or fruit. Do not skip breakfast — it sets the tone for your energy levels, Murray says.

Prioritize sleep: Aim for eight to nine hours of sleep per night leading up to camp. Being well-rested helps your body regulate temperature and recover faster.

Sun protection: Apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher before heading out each day. Reapply sunscreen every two to three hours, especially if you are sweating a lot. Protect your lips with an SPF lip balm. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing (moisture-wicking is best). A hat and sunglasses will help protect your face from the sun.

Rest and recovery: Take breaks when allowed. Do not push through exhaustion. Allow for time inside throughout the day to lower core body temperature.

Personal hygiene: Bring deodorant, hand sanitizer, and a clean towel or wipes each day. Change clothes if you get sweaty, especially socks. Be sure to shower daily.

Master the music: Do not let your first notes on your instrument be at camp, says Assistant Director of Athletic Bands Caleb Owenby, DMA, and assistant professor of trombone. Learn as much of the music as you can before coming to camp.

“Spend a couple of weeks building your instrumental fundamentals back up,” Owenby said. “This is especially important for brass players to avoid injury and increase playing endurance and sound production.”

Take care of your instrument: Clean and maintain the instrument daily. Keep it out of direct sunlight when not in use. Bring extra reeds, valve oil or whatever your instrument needs.

Get excited: Make a playlist of the half-time show tunes, Owenby says. Link up with old friends, and get ready to make some new friends. Follow the Marching Blazers on Instagram and UAB Bands on Facebook.

‘How we Treat [Immigrants] will Shape the Future of … Our Democracy and Our Moral Character’

By
Birmingham Times
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Carlos E. Alemán, Ph.D. is the Chief Executive Officer ¡HICA!, a nonprofit that advocates for immigrants in Alabama. (Provided)

By Carlos E. Alemán, Ph.D. 

Carlos E. Alemán, Ph.D. is Chief Executive Officer of ¡HICA!, a nonprofit that advocates for immigrants in Alabama.

This has been one of the hardest years I can remember doing this work.

At ¡HICA!, we’ve served Latino and immigrant communities in Alabama for over 25 years. We’ve helped families buy homes, start businesses, apply for citizenship, and navigate a system not built for them. I’ve seen what’s possible when people are welcomed — and what happens when they’re targeted.

Right now, everything feels at risk.

In Alabama, we’re witnessing the return of criminalization through laws like SB 53 and SB 63. One makes it a felony to transport an undocumented person, the other mandates fingerprinting and DNA collection. These echo the darkest days of HB 56 and spread fear across our neighborhoods.

Meanwhile, the federal government is ramping up mass deportations by pulling in agents from the FBI, DEA, and even the National Guard. Just in the past few weeks, community members have been detained during scheduled ICE check-ins — people who have followed every legal instruction, only to be unexpectedly taken into custody.

Most recently, in Gulf Shores, more than 30 individuals were detained during a raid at a high school construction site. These events are not isolated. They reflect a growing pattern of intimidation and enforcement that makes it harder for families to feel safe, even when they are doing everything right. Due process is being quietly dismantled.

And the attacks are not just on people — they’re on the laws that protect them.

The Supreme Court’s recent decision in Trump v. CASA stripped federal courts of the ability to block harmful immigration policies on a national scale. Even if a policy — like ending birthright citizenship — is ruled likely unconstitutional, it now only protects a narrow group of plaintiffs. The result? A legal patchwork where rights depend on where you live and whether you can afford to sue. It opens the door to policies that could deny U.S. citizenship to children born here. Once again, immigrant communities are being told they are less protected, less welcome, and more vulnerable.

That same week, Congress passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” It pours $150 billion into ICE, private detention centers, and state-sanctioned raids, while gutting due process and authorizing indefinite family detention. This isn’t policy reform — it’s an infrastructure for mass incarceration and state-sanctioned trauma.

Soon after, the Department of Health and Human Services quietly rescinded a 30-year interpretation of federal law that had allowed undocumented immigrants access to community health centers, Head Start, and substance use programs. This decision cuts off critical lifelines to families, including many with U.S. citizen children, under the guise of “restoring integrity.” In truth, it’s an attack on public health and family stability.

And now, nonprofits like ours are in the crosshairs too.

The “nonprofit killer” would allow the government to revoke an organization’s tax-exempt status without due process. As a nonprofit that advocates for immigrants in Alabama, this hits close to home. If our mission to build prosperity for Latino and immigrant families is seen as “too political,” could we be next? For ¡HICA!, the message is clear: stay quiet, or risk everything.

All of these moves — legal, legislative, and administrative — tell the same story: a tightening of who is allowed to belong, who is allowed to stay, and who is allowed to serve.

But we will not be silent.

We won’t ignore that both political parties have failed to address the broken immigration system. We won’t pretend this is just about the border. This is about our neighbors, co-workers, and children. This is about whether Alabama, and our country, can be a place where everyone has the right to thrive.

I’m writing not just as a nonprofit leader, but as someone who believes deeply in the dignity of those we serve. Immigrants are not a threat — they are a solution. And how we treat them will shape the future of our economy, our democracy, and our moral character.

So to our friends, supporters, and allies: this is the moment to act. Stand with us. Speak out. Invest in hope, in justice, and in a future that includes all of us. Because silence will not save us. But solidarity—and your support—just might.  Make a gift today to defend immigrant families and protect ¡HICA!’s mission

Alemán sent this as an email to donors in support of ¡HICA!‘s mission.

Meet the Birmingham Nail Tech Who Accessorized Clients for Beyoncé’s Atlanta Tour Visit

By
Birmingham Times
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Haven Moore, CEO of downtown Birmingham's luxury and nail spa, Haven Fabulash Nails. (File)

By Marika N. Johnson | For The Birmingham Times

Anticipation for Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour had been building for weeks in Birmingham as local salons, boutiques, and barbershops saw a surge in customers looking for the perfect “Yeehaw Glam” — from silver boots to custom nail sets.

“We had women coming in asking for Beyoncé-style press-ons with silver stars and rhinestones,” said Haven Moore, owner of Haven Fabulash Nails in downtown Birmingham. “They know I’m the ultimate Beyoncé fan and I was not playing. My clients couldn’t wait for me to drop the Cowboy Carter nail sets — they were going full rodeo.”

Moore, who attended the concert with her daughter, said Beyoncé’s words continue to motivate her as an entrepreneur. “She says, ‘Every time I (Beyoncé) accomplish one thing, I set a higher goal.’ That’s how she got where she is — and that’s how I push myself, too.”

When the global superstar brought her Cowboy Carter Tour to Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium July 10-14, she didn’t just perform — she sparked a movement. Dressed in denim, rhinestones, and leather fringe, she redefined country music through a bold, Black Southern lens. And once again, fans from Birmingham showed up in force to witness it.

Haven Moore of Haven Fabulash Nails created nails for several clients who attended Beyoncé’s concerts. (Provided)

Thousands made the drive east to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where Bey’s reinvention of Americana played out across multiple sold-out nights. As the second act of her Renaissance series, Cowboy Carter explores the deep roots of American music — fusing country with soul, gospel, and rock. For many Birmingham fans, the experience felt like a cultural homecoming.

From the moment she stepped onstage in a custom Western ensemble, flanked by a full band and a dynamic cast of dancers, it was clear this wasn’t the country music of Nashville — it was Beyoncé’s. She delivered powerful performances of Cowboy Carter tracks like “Texas Hold ’Em,” “Sweet Honey Buckin’,” and the fiery “Spaghettii,” layered with references to her Houston upbringing and her deep connection to gospel and Southern musical traditions.

“Beyoncé reminded the world that Black hands shaped country music too,” said one concertgoer.

Delvakio Brown brought his own special sense of fashion to the concert. (Provided)

The tour’s cultural impact resonated deeply with local creatives, especially as Beyoncé boldly took up space in a historically white genre — one with deep ties to the South, yet often lacking in Black representation.

Daniel Grier, owner and designer of Splashed by DKG, dressed about 10 fans for various stops on the tour, including one look that made it all the way to the London show and was featured by Beyoncé’s own Parkwood Entertainment social media team.

“Fashion is a powerful form of expression that affects our mental health and confidence,” Grier said. “It means everything that people spent their money with me for a custom look. Beyoncé inspired people to seek out independent designers or tap into their own creativity. Emerging artists really needed this.”

“Independent artisans aren’t in the malls,” Grier added. “We’re out here pushing our brands on social media, trying to grow. My thanks to Beyoncé — Cowboy Carter reminded the world we exist — and we matter.”

One of the most powerful messages of the night came in the form of a quote displayed boldly on stage: “Never ask permission for something that already belongs to you.” That line, for many fans, was more than a lyric — it was a mantra.

“That quote is infused in every lyric, dance move, outfit, and video,” said Javacia Harris Bowser, Birmingham writer and founder of See Jane Write posted on Instagram. “It’s a message that’s so needed right now — especially for women, people of color, and queer folks who are constantly told we don’t belong. This was my sixth Beyoncé show, and she never disappoints.”

Bowser continued, “Cowboy Carter was more than a good time. It was the balm I didn’t know I needed — soothing aches I didn’t have the language to describe. I left that stadium empowered to keep showing up in this world, boldly declaring: I’m still here.”

Jaylon Givan, a Birmingham-based dancer, model, and creative director, echoed that sentiment.

“Cowboy Carter is revolution. It’s a sonic proclamation of Black truth, freedom, and healing,” Givan said. “Just like Renaissance celebrated Black queer culture, this tour honors Black heritage and resilience. The layers are historical, emotional, and spiritual.” “This will be my second time seeing Beyoncé live — but this time, I’m coming from a whole new place in life.”

As the final chorus of “Amen” echoed through the stadium and Beyoncé tipped her Stetson to the crowd, many fans from Birmingham stood motionless — overwhelmed, inspired, and full. For them, Cowboy Carter wasn’t just a tour. It was a reclamation — of music, of history, and of self.

Rep. Sewell Announces $25 Million Grant to Help Modernize MAX Transit

By
Birmingham Times
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The Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority has been awarded a $25 million grant to modernize public transit in Birmingham and Jefferson County. (File)

sewell.house.gov

U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced this week that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) a $25 million grant to modernize public transit in Birmingham and Jefferson County.

Rep. Terri Sewell

The grant will be used to construct a new modern maintenance and operations facility — a transformative project critical to advancing public transportation infrastructure in the region.

“I am thrilled that BJCTA has been awarded this transformative infrastructure grant to help modernize public transit in the region,” said Sewell. “Securing this grant has been a long-standing priority for my office, BJCTA, and the entire Birmingham-Jefferson County region. This funding will have a transformational impact for those who rely on public transportation and will bring new economic opportunities to our community.”

The grant will enable BJCTA to adopt cutting-edge technologies and cleaner energy solutions, including hydrogen fuel cell buses, compressed natural gas, and electric vehicle charging. The inclusion of alternative fuel infrastructure represents a bold step toward environmental sustainability and promotes resilient transportation systems.

Additionally, this project is poised to generate significant economic benefits, creating jobs during construction and operational phases while enhancing connectivity for communities across the Birmingham region. By improving transportation options, BJCTA’s initiative will foster access to greater opportunities, contributing to the broader well-being and prosperity of our community.

Broken Promises and Abandoned Buildings Frustrate Residents in One Birmingham Community

By
Birmingham Times
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Elyton Village community president Willine Body stands in front of the former community center building at Elyton Village. The building remains boarded at the complex after a more than a decade of stalled plans for renovation that never came to fruition. (Contributed)

By Joseph D. Bryant | jbryant@al.com

Frustrated Birmingham residents say an abandoned building in the center of their community stands as a deteriorating monument to years of unkept promises to their neighborhood.

Residents of Elyton Village, a public housing community just west of downtown, said their pleas for revitalization remain ignored by housing authority leaders.

“They just come saying the same things,” said Willine Body, longtime president of the Elyton Village residents’ council. Neighbors say the stench emitting from a long abandoned building increases during the hot summer days.

“We also know that every time it rains you can smell the mold inside the building,” said Sananka AY Yashara Ahla. “They say there’s no mold, but we can smell mold. You can smell it outside.”

Neighbors want leaders at the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District to either renovate or demolish the art deco building. Rusted doors to the shuttered brick building hint at the years it has been closed.

Residents also point to twin two-story vacant buildings that sit boarded up at the edge of the community.

Housing authority officials declined AL.com requests for an interview with CEO Dontrelle Foster. Instead, housing authority spokesperson Keaira Turner told AL.com that the agency is taking action on demolishing vacant buildings at the community.

“Recently, HUD approved our request to demolish the vacant residential buildings located at Elyton Village,” Turner said in a statement. “We anticipate that the demolition will take place in 2026. HABD does not currently have HUD permission to demolish the former community center and will seek that authorization in the future.”
However, Body said housing authority leaders told her that demolition is complicated because the community center building is historic. She remains skeptical.
“Now all of a sudden its ‘historic.’ You didn’t bring it up until we started talking about it,” she said.
The last major work at Elyton occurred in 2017 with new front porches and apartment renovations. But the overall project was not fully completed. The exterior of other units remain untouched with twisted and rusting metal awnings.

The housing authority’s 2025 draft annual plan included demolishing buildings at Elyton Village including the gym. Similar proposals for Elyton appeared in previous housing authority plans going back several years under previous housing authority administrations.

“We are asking for documentation to show HUD approved it and when they plan to tear them down,” Body said.

Residents said their community remains ignored, overlooked and undeveloped.

“Everything that they are saying is a repeat record,” Ahla said.

Turner noted that the housing authority held a series of meetings and surveys and received 192 household responses regarding redevelopment.

The data will help create a draft proposal for a redevelopment plan, she said.

“Once a strategy is created, we will have additional opportunities to engage with residents and provide them with opportunities to share feedback,” Turner said.

Body and others said the meetings occurred, but they were not specifically about Elyton. Meanwhile, plans are underway to transform a community just a few blocks away.

Birmingham in 2023 was awarded a federal Choice Neighborhoods grant to help redevelop Smithfield Court and nearby areas. The money is also intended to leverage $294 million in investment for the adjacent Graymont, Smithfield and College Hills neighborhoods.

Residents at Elyton Village are concerned that their community will become an island of blight surrounded by new development.

Elyton residents said they want more than vague statements about future plans. Instead, they’d rather see a demolition truck to finally rid the neighborhood of what they said are longstanding hazards.

“I think they feel like, ‘you can just tell them anything and shut them up,”’ Body said.

PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS

By
Birmingham Times
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BUILD UP is enrolling 9th- and 10th-Grade students for the 2025-26 school year. (Provided)

By Gwen DeRu | The Birmingham Times

A LI’L FUN IN THE HOT SUN!!! ENJOY!!! STAY COOL!!! 

TODAY, JULY 17…

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

**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.

**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**JOMBI, ANNA GRACE ODOM and BRUH COLLECTIVE at the Nick.

**3rdTHURSDAY at the Nick with RAMBLIN’ RICKY TATE at The Nick.

**HAYLOFT at The Nick Late Night.

**SUBSTRATE BINGO with JACKIE Lo at Saturn.

**JOSE CARR EVERY THURSDAY, 5-7 p.m. at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, at 1631 4thAvenue North.

**SUBSTRATE BINGO with JACKIE LO at Saturn.

**FILMMAKER NETWORKING NIGHTS, 5 p.m.  at 1821 2ndAvenue 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, JULY 18…

IT IS FRIDAY…the weekend starts…

**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.

**STUD FORD (Grandson of Legendary Delta-Blues artist T-Model Ford) & WILL COPPAGE at The Nick.

**CATCH YOUR BREATH – THE END OF THE PERFECT WORLD SUMMER RUN with KEITH WALLEN and NERV at Saturn.

**MYLES MORGAN with ALLI LEIGHANN & JT MCCAFFREY at Iron City.

**FRIDAY NIGHTS SCREEN SCENE MOVIES SERIES showing MUFASA: THE LION KING at Beacon Park, 5309 Beacon Drive. Fun and Games begin at 7 p.m. Movie begins at Dusk. There are FREE hot dogs, lemonade, train rides, popcorn, snow cones and more.

**GOOD PEOPLE & GOOD MUSIC WITH GOOD PEOPLE BREWING at Dave’s, 6 p.m. at Dave’s Pub.

SATURDAY, JULY 19…

**CLASSIC CAR CRUISE -IN+ Live MUSIC By the Tracks at City Hall, 8 – 11 a.m.

**FARMERS & MAKERS MARKET, 8 – 11 a.m., Every Saturday through August 2, located at By the Tracks at Irondale City Hall -Free Honey Samples & Bee Demo. There will be fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, baked goods, honey and handcrafted items.

**I LOVE IRONDALE DAY, 4-7 p.m. at Irondale City Hall with food trucks, Heidi’s Kids Zone, activities, live music, and dancing with DJ MAVERICK.

**I LOVE IRONDALE AFTER HOURS, 7- 9 p.m. with the Official Clutch Band, 4:45 p.m., the Emil Joseph Band, 6:15 p.m. and the Emerald Empire Band at 7:40 p.m.

**SATURDAY FREE SHOW WITH HAM BAGBY at The Nick.

**YES DEAR, GREAT JANE, BOOEE and PALLBEARER at The Nick.

**GIMME GIMME DISCO at Saturn.

SUNDAY, JULY 20…

**SINGO BINGO EVERY SUNDAY, 1 p.m. at Cahaba Brewing Company.

**JOSE CARR performing at JAZZ IN THE GARDEN SUNDAYS, Every 1stand 3rdSunday, 5-8 p.m. at Denim on 7th, 2808 7thAvenue Suite105

**EASE BACK 4th SUNDAYS, 5 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**SUNDAY NIGHT at The Nick with KYLE KIMBRELL.

**2NDSUNDAY FREE SHOW with ZACH AUSTIN at The Nick.

**4thSUNDAY FREE SHOW with TAYLOR HOLLINGSWORTH at The Nick.

**LAKE STREET DIVE w/ RETT MADISON at Avondale Brewing Co.

MONDAY, JULY 21…

**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.

**BIRMINGHAM BANDSTAND (Open Mic) at the Nick.

TUESDAY, JULY 22…

**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.

**PODCASTING 101 at CREED63, EVERY TUESDAY at 5:45 p.m. Learn how to launch and create your own podcast at 1601 5thAvenue North, Birmingham 35203.

**JOSE CARR EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT at True Story Brewing.

**FREE SATURN KARAOKE NIGHTS at Saturn.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 23…

**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.

**REAL FUNNY COMEDY WEDNESDAYS at True Story Brewing. Sign up at 7:30 p.m.

**LILY OF THE SEA, THE OFFICIAL BAR OF BALDWIN COUNTY, SUBHYMNAL at The Nick.

**FREE OSCILLATIONS – ELECTRONIC MUSIC OPEN MIC PEROFRMANCE at Saturn.

THURSDAY, JULY 24…

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

**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.

**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**SEBASTIAN BORDEAUZ’S “ HILLBILLY ROYALE’ w/ special guests REXACO at the Nick.

**FREE WE HAVE SIGNAL: UNRELEASED & B-SIDES at Saturn.

FRIDAY, JULY 25….

**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.

**DRAG NIGHT at The Nick.

**EMO NIGHT BROOKLYN with MORE WEIGHT at Saturn.

**EST GEE at Iron City.

**WINSTON RAMBLE – Sets Live at Avondale Brewing Co.

NEWS TO KNOW AND USE – PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS TO WATCH…

FOR MUSIC LOVERS…

**JULY 24 – DEAR SILAS “I AIN’T STRESSIN’ TODAY,” 7 p.m. at the Carver Theatre.

**JULY 26th – ROLAND BARBER of the Roland Barber Quintet featuring JOEL FRAHM, 7 p.m. at the Carver Theatre.

**JULY 27 – JAZZ ON 4thwith NEW JAZZ UNDERGROUND, 5 p.m. at the Carver Theatre.

**AUGUST 31 – LABOR DAY CONCERT– ONE NIGHT ONLY – A TRIBUTE TO LUTHER VANDROSS featuring JAY LAMBERT & THE BYRON THOMAS COLLECTIVE, August 31 – 7 p.m. at the Birmingham Museum of Art.  Look for more right here, soon.

FOR THE SENIORS…AGE IS JUST A NUMBER…

**JULY 22 – GAMES – CARDS & BINGO. Come out and join the seniors by shuffling some cards, playing some bingo and winning some prizes.

**JULY 29 – SENIOR GARTEN 101 & BINGO – Come on out and learn about Medicare and win some prizes. The West End Library is located at, 1348 Tuscaloosa Avenue, 205-226-4089. 

MORE…FOR THE YOUTH…

**BUILD UP is enrolling 9th- and 10th-Grade students for the 2025-26 school year. The Build Up Community School provides an innovative, hands-on learning environment that empowers students to gain career skills, paid internships and fulfilling careers. Apply at www.buildup/work, 205-847-4086, or admissions@buildup.work. Located at 222-6thAvenue SW.

**BIRMINGHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY – THE LITTLE ENGINE THAT COULD by Jean Pierce, Saturdays through July19that Central Public Library, downtown.

**SPACE ONE ELEVEN SUMMER ART CAMPS, for 6th– 12th Grades, NOW through July 25. Whether your child is just discovering art or building a serious portfolio. There is Drawing, Portfolio Development, Digital Art, Printmaking, Clay, Sculpture and more. Register at: SpaceOneEleven.org.

**MDS SUMMER CAMP, NOW through August for ages 4-8 (Must be Potty Trained) with Lunch and Snacks. There is Outdoor Play, Water Play Days, Snow Cone Days, Arts and Crafts and more.  Call 205-957-6550 for more.

**SUMMER THEATRE CAMPS at Red Mountain Theatre for ages 4 – 18, NOW through August 15. Go to redmountaintheatre.org for more.

**KIDS BOWL FREE ALL SUMMER LONG!– Every Day, All Summer Long, Kids Bowl FREE at Spare Time in Trussville! No Cost! Two Free Games Every Day! Family- Friendly Activity!

FOR LOVERS OF SPORTS…

**JULY 26 – MCALPINE FOOTBALL SKILLZ CAMP,10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, at 1115 Avenue F, 35218. Admission is FREE, for ages 8-18. The attire is t-shirt, shorts, sneakers, cleats, etc. Lunch and Camp t-shirt is provided. For more, call 205-520-6542.

FOR THE FAMILY…

AT CITY WALK (23rdStreet North and 9thAvenue North, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.)

**TODAY – BACK TO SCHOOL SOCKHOP– A 50s-themed night with Elvis vibes and old-school fun before the school bell rings.

**JULY 24 – LEGENDS COME TO CITY WALK BHAM– Another round of legendary performances to close out the summer series in style. There will be live music performances, food trucks, the Social Bar (Drinks for the grown-ups, and outdoor games: Ping Pong, Bocce, CornHole & more. NOTE: all guests 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

FOR COMMUNITY LOVERS INFO…

**FREE – ADVICE FROM VOLUNTEER LAWYERS IN BIRMINGHAM – ASK AN ATTORNEY on Tuesday, August 5 at Homewood Library. Volunteer attorneys will be on hand 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. to answer your legal questions and provide direction, FREE. No appointment necessary. VLB assists with civil legal matters.  For more 205-250-5198 and www.vlbham.org.

FOR LOVERS OF OUTDOORS… 

**SATURDAY DAY WALK, SWIM AND PICNIC, 9:45 a.m. at the McDonald’s Galleria with Southeastern Outings River Beach Walk, Swim and Picnic at Barton’s Beach in Perry County, Alabama – DETAILS: Barton’s Beach, the largest sand and gravel beach on the entire Cahaba River, is a property owned by the Alabama Nature Conservancy and is a beautiful sight to behold!  Enjoy a beach gathering on this scenic, fine-grained sand beach in Marion, Alabama where the scenery is spectacular, the floodplain broadens and creates areas of bottomland hardwood forests, oxbow lakes and extensive sand and gravel bars. Float on the river from the upper end of the beach to the lower end of the beach. Carry your float and walk on the beach back up to the upper end and repeat that real fun experience as many times as you like during the day.  Bring whatever flotation device you like. Bring with you your swimsuit, towel, picnic lunch and water, soft drink or fruit juice to drink.  Wading shoes with substantial soles are recommended.

Depending on the time there is an optional dinner after the outing is concluded. Meet 9:45 a.m. at the McDonald’s Galleria.  Depart at 10 a.m. Call Dan Frederick at 205/631-4680

**COMMUNITY CLEANUP – The Shadowlawn Memorial Garden needs volunteers on Saturday July 26 and August 2, 7 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the Assembly Point, 1600 12thStreet SW, 35211.  For more, contact 205-253-0844. Bring your lawn equipment, a friend and wear bug repellent spray.  Needed: gloves, lawnmowers and weed eater machines.

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

My Plea During These Unprecedented Times

By
Birmingham Times
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I know this may be a little bit of a different tone for this column but it needs to be said: the city — our nation even — is at a major tipping point.

We’re just about a month away from an all-important mayoral election in Birmingham. My focus is not on the candidates because the candidates will do what the candidates will do, but my focus is on you, City of Birmingham.

We are facing unprecedented times in our country. And my question to you is: What will it take to get you to get up and move and cast your vote in the upcoming municipal elections on August 26? Because inevitably, what affects one in the city eventually affects all of us. This is no longer a time to keep turning our heads and keep ignoring things “just as long as it doesn’t affect me.”

And while I’m at it, let me go ahead and encourage you to make sure if you didn’t cast your ballot in this last presidential election, make sure that changes the next go round as well.

But locally, let’s make our voices known on August 26. We can do better than not showing up to vote. The numbers from the last mayoral election in 2021 are absolutely appalling — 36,791 of Birmingham’s 145,564 registered voters appeared at the polls, for a turnout of 25.3 percent. That meant almost 75 percent of all registered voters who live in the community didn’t show up to vote in the last municipal elections for mayor, city council and Board of Education.

I truly don’t understand how a city known as the cradle of the Civil Rights movement has become lulled into inaction, complacency and laziness. And listen, I haven’t always been this vigilant, but time has brought about a change to where I say now “just get up and go vote. The city needs you.”

Please, no more excuses; no more apathy; and no more indifference.  I know this column may be a little bit of a different tone, but at the end of the day, just know I’m always cheering for you as we face unprecedented times in our country.

Safety Transportation Tips for Back to School

By
Birmingham Times
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This time of the year can be both enjoyable and hectic for parents as they enjoy their summer vacation plans whether at home or away but must simultaneously prepare for the opening of another school year in just a matter of weeks.  Therefore, it is important that we begin the conversation of how best to safely prepare our students and/or child(ren) for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.

We will begin the safety conversation with key safety tips from the National Safety Council regarding how students are transported to school. This safety conversation includes walkers, bus riders, bike riders and teen drivers. Regardless of how your child(ren) travels to school, there are safety precautions which should be considered and practiced.

Let us begin the safety conversation with those who walk to school:

  • Review your family’s walking safety rules and practice walking to school with your child.
  • Walk on the sidewalk, if one is available, when on a street with no sidewalk, walk facing the traffic.
  • Before you cross the street, stop and look left, right and left again to see if cars are coming.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing and always cross the street at crosswalks or intersections.

Bike riders:

  • Teach your child the rules of the road and practice riding the bike route to school with your child.
  • Ride on the right side of the road, with traffic, and in a single file.
  • Come to a complete stop before crossing the street; walk bikes across the street.
  • Stay alert and avoid distracted riding (i.e. headphones, cell phones, etc.).
  • Make sure your child always wears a properly fitted helmet and bright clothing.

Bus Riders:

  • Teach your child school bus safety rules and practice with them.
  • Go to the bus stop with your child(ren) to teach them the proper way to get on and off the bus.
  • Teach your child(ren) to stand 6 feet (or three/3 giant steps) away from the curb.
  • If your child(ren) must cross the street in front of the bus, teach him or her to walk on the side of the road until they are 10 feet ahead of the bus; your child and the bus driver should always be able to see each other.
  • Obey school safety zone a speed limits and follow your school’s drop-off procedures.
  • Make eye contact with children crossing the street.
  • NEVER pass a bus loading or unloading children.
  • The area 20 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them to safely enter and exit the bus.

 Teen Drivers:

  • Car crashes are the No.1 cause of death for teens. Fortunately, there is something we can do:
  • Teens crash because they are inexperienced; practice with new drivers every week, before and after they get their license.
  • Set a good example; drive the way you want your teen to drive.
  • Sign the New Driver Deal; an agreement that helps define expectations for parents and teen.

Keeping an Eye on Safety as the new school year begins is a prudent way to start and complete the school year.  Let us stay safe by abiding by the rules of the road.

“You may come in and hear Frank Sinatra, Usher or Beyonce. Or ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ could be playing. It will be a nice vibe. It will be a nice vibrant place.’’

By
Birmingham Times
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CHARLES LEWIS, WHO WITH SISTER BRENDA, OPENED THE TOASTED YOLK CAFE, A BREAKFAST, BRUNCH AND LUNCH SPOT IN DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM ON 20TH STREET SOUTH ON MONDAY; BIRMINGHAMTIMES.COM, JULY 14.

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