Good morning, Birmingham.

Brasfield and Gorrie celebrated a new three-story expansion next to its Lakeview District headquarters this week that cost $18.9 million and created 64 new jobs.

The project is part of a plan to add 85 headquarters roles within five years — local government and partners helped support the investment.

Authorities discovered a firearm at Mount Olive Elementary today and are investigating the incident to ensure school safety.

Birmingham's Magic City Sips initiative is now a yearlong celebration called "Magic City Sips: Savor the Magic Eat, Drink, Local" that highlights the city's food and drink scene.

The Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity said the campaign will use social media and event activations — ending in November with the Sippy Cup Awards to honor local venues.

The Greater Birmingham Convention & Visitors Bureau announced that tourism in Jefferson County generated a record $2.57 billion in economic impact in 2024, supporting 51,000+ jobs and contributing $302 million in tax revenue.

The bureau also launched a Tourism Hall of Fame and named Alabama State Senator Jabo Waggoner as its first inductee for decades of service.

Birmingham teachers welcomed the governor's signature of the FOCUS Act on Wednesday, which bans cellphones in classrooms except for students with health needs—aiming to reduce distractions and false alerts.

Richard Franklin of the Birmingham Federation of Teachers said the law creates a consistent rule that helps focus learning and stops unnecessary panic.

AL.com's reporter Ivana Hrynkiw earned national praise for her Denied series that looked into Alabama’s broken parole system and spurred changes in parole policy.

Today the American Bar Association gave the series an honorable mention in the Silver Gavel Awards—making AL.com one of only two newspaper organizations recognized nationally.

A new guide lists 18 hole-in-the-wall restaurants where Birmingham locals can try crowd-favorite dishes like spaghetti + lasagna at Giuseppe’s and Philly cheesesteak + chili dog at Salem's Diner.

Updated in 2025, the guide gives key details on hours and locations to help readers find their next favorite spot.

Pop Up Bar Bham, a new rotating-themed bar with Instagram-worthy decor and fresh cocktails, will open tomorrow at 4 p.m. in downtown Birmingham at Canvas on Morris + the venue offers a dynamic space that changes each season.

The Regions Tradition at Greystone Golf & Country Club kicked off on May 14 with a Celebrity Pro-Am featuring sports legends such as Trent Dilfer, Bo Jackson, and Nick Saban, raising over $23 million for local charities like Children's of Alabama — a Monsters of Yacht concert will take place on Saturday at about 4 p.m. with $30 tickets available and free admission for children 15 and under with an adult ticket.

Birmingham coaching legend Alvin Moore will receive the SWAC Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award at the 22nd SWAC Legends gala on Saturday, May 17 at the Sheraton Flowood in Flowood.

He spent 42 years coaching in Birmingham—helping raise funds for scholarships and shaping local sports.

Stand-Up Comedy with Mandal

6:15-9 p.m. — StarDome Comedy Club — $20 — Enjoy a night of laughs with Atlanta's rising comedian known for his wit and recent Netflix recognition.

Brick Fan Expo - A LEGO Fan Event

10 AM - 5 PM — BJCC North Exhibition Hall — Family-friendly entry — Explore amazing LEGO® creations, building zones, games, and character meets.

Tire Rack Street Survival Teen Driving School

7 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Barber Motorsports Park — $125 — Equip your teen with essential defensive driving skills at a dedicated driving school.

Carver High School Graduation Ceremony

1-2 p.m. — Birmingham CrossPlex — Free entry — Celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Class of 2025 in a momentous graduation ceremony.

Sun Ra Day Fest Featuring The Sun Ra Arkestra

6:30 p.m. — The Nick — $48.86 — Celebrate the legacy of Sun Ra with an evening of vibrant music and performance.

Birmingham Stallions vs. Michigan Panthers

2-3:30 p.m. — Protective Stadium, Birmingham, AL — Tickets available — Catch the Birmingham Stallions as they take on the Michigan Panthers in an action-packed game.

Marvin Hunter Stand-Up Comedy Show

5:15 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $15 — Experience the comedic talents of Marvin Hunter, a seasoned performer sharing the stage with comedy greats.

Interviewing Skills Workshop

1-2 p.m. — Goodwill Store, Donation Center, & Career Center — Free entry — Prepare to impress with invaluable interview tips and confidence-building strategies.

Rob Kazi Live

7-8:30 p.m. — StarDome Comedy Club — Tickets available — Experience the infectious humor and quick-witted storytelling of New Orleans comedic sensation Rob Kazi.

Sheryl Underwood Live

5:45 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $35 to $45 — Experience a night of laughter with one of today's brightest comedians and multi-talented businesswomen.