Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 21st of March.
Good morning, Birmingham.
After Saturday night's tornado damaged local homes, businesses and churches, Crisis Cleanup and 211 offered free help for debris removal, tree cutting and emergency shelter.
Residents can call 844-965-1386 for Crisis Cleanup or dial 211 for disaster assistance.
Birmingham firefighter Jordan Melton was targeted and killed because he was set to testify in a murder trial for Larry Denzel Rollins — 47-year-old Eddie Jerry Jones was arrested on March 20 for giving a shooter Melton’s location — and police say more arrests may come.
Birmingham Police have arrested two more suspects, Ny’Quan Lollar and Chrishawn McClemore Bruce, in connection to the Five Points South mass shooting that killed four and injured 17 and charged them in the murder of Jamarcus McIntyre less than 24 hours later.
Birmingham officials said homicides are down 27 percent so far in 2025 thanks to a new crime plan from Mayor Woodfin and interim Police Chief Pickett that boosts police hiring and speeds arrests—officials note more work is needed to overcome long-standing court delays.
ALDOT began the I-65 widening project from Calera to Alabaster to ease congestion and improve traffic flow.
Construction crews will add lanes from Exit 231 to Exit 238 + replace eight outdated bridges while drivers face overnight lane closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., and the work will finish in about a year and a half.
On Thursday, Alabama lawmakers passed a bipartisan bill that gives teachers and state employees up to eight weeks of maternity leave and two weeks of paternity leave after the birth, stillbirth or miscarriage of a child—a vote of 94 to 2 led to its approval.
The bill now goes to Gov. Kay Ivey for review after she endorsed it during her state of the state speech in February.
The BJCC will host the SEC gymnastics championship tomorrow and NCAA women's basketball regionals next week—drawing thousands of fans to Birmingham.
Local business owners expect a boost in sales as many visitors head to downtown restaurants and shops during the 10-day event period.
17th Annual Rumpshaker 5K
The Rumpshaker 5K is an annual charity run held to raise awareness for colorectal cancer, taking place at Regions Field in Birmingham, Alabama.
Learn Haircutting Theory and Practice at See Theory
This hands-on class in Birmingham focuses on understanding haircutting theory and practical execution for visual learners and aspiring hairstylists.
Jr Parks Live at The Upstairs at Avondale
This live music event features Jr Parks performing at The Upstairs at Avondale, with doors opening at 7 PM CST.
Candlelight Concert: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
Experience an enchanting tribute to Taylor Swift featuring the Listeso String Quartet in a candlelit setting at the Birmingham Museum of Art.
Cherry Blossom Festival
10 AM – 4 PM — Birmingham Botanical Gardens — Free entry — Celebrate Japanese culture amidst the stunning beauty of cherry blossoms.
On-Site Tour at Elite Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
9 AM - 7 PM | Elite Nursing & Rehabilitation Center | Free entry | Explore a premier senior living community known for its exceptional dining and care.
Birmingham Level 2/3 Training Course
8 a.m. — Weil Wrecker Service — $595.00 — Enhance your skills in light-duty vehicle training with our flagship fundamentals course.
Fred Armisen Live
7-8:30 p.m. — Iron City Bham — Tickets available — Enjoy Fred Armisen's unique blend of comedy and music in a lively performance.
Anjelah Johnson-Reyes: The Family Reunion Tour
7-10 p.m. | Lyric Theatre | Ticket prices vary | Enjoy a night of humor with actress and comedienne Anjelah Johnson-Reyes as she showcases her unique storytelling skills.
Jessie McDonald's Field Trip Comedy Tour
7:30-9 p.m. — Main Room — Tickets available — Experience laughter with Jessie McDonald and Myron Jewels on this comedic field trip.
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