Good morning, Birmingham.

Kenneth Cox Jr. now directs Birmingham CrossPlex after 16 years at Birmingham-Southern, where he built a national track program and showcased his leadership.

He credits his roots, faith, and family values for guiding him from track coaching to managing one of the city's busiest venues.

The House of Found Objects — a quirky cocktail bar at 2205 Second Avenue North featuring themed tables, a poetry corner, and drinks named for locals — was named one of the best bars in America by Esquire this week.

Since the band released its album ‘Grateful’ on Friday, reviewers have praised the mix of soulful gospel themes and raw Southern rock energy — a blend reflecting their Mobile roots.

The group will headline an arena tour starting July 30 with a stop at Legacy Arena on Halloween.

Birmingham native Chelsi Banks was featured in Vogue as one of two talent chosen for American Style x Vogue after her 1960s-inspired look drew praise from peers.

The Auburn student received recognition after the feature published Monday, June 8 + her local roots shaped her distinct style.

Ruby Tilghman, Miss Birmingham, was crowned Miss Alabama 2026 Saturday night at Samford University and won two preliminary awards + over $15,000 in scholarship funds.

She will compete in Miss America 2026 this September.

Birmingham will mark Juneteenth with a week of community events including free wellness screenings at the Civil Rights Institute on Sunday, an interactive trivia walk at Center Point Library on Monday, and a parade at Kelly Ingram Park on Saturday plus a tribute baseball game at Rickwood Field on Friday.

Junior Achievement held a ribbon-cutting for its new McWane Economic Education Center at Regions Finance Park last Tuesday, June 9.

The center will open Thursday, June 11 and help nearly 20,000 grades (5-8) learn money management with a hands-on mini city simulation.

University of Alabama at Birmingham professor Nita Limdi received a $2.9M NIH grant to launch SEGEMS & expand genomic medicine access for patients in Alabama and Tennessee.

The project will let providers send secure eConsults and run through Feb. 2028.

On a Bun in downtown Birmingham offers big, juicy burgers and hearty sandwiches for $12 with extra toppings available for $1–$2, and the restaurant (located at 2328 Second Ave. N) is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with gluten-free options.

Alabama baseball will travel to Omaha to face Oklahoma at Charles Schwab Field on Saturday at 2 p.m. after celebrating its first College World Series berth since 1999 (the game airs on ESPN), coach Rob Vaughn said the team plans to build on its five consecutive NCAA tournament wins.

Former Thompson High School standout Peter Woods signed his first NFL contract with the Kansas City Chiefs on April 23, earning a four-year, fully guaranteed deal worth $17.976M + a $9.533M signing bonus.

This move marks a significant milestone in the local star's career.

The Waterphone Interactive Performance and Clinic

7-8:30 p.m. — House of Found Objects — Paid event — Explore the eerie sounds of the Waterphone in an interactive clinic led by expert Brooks Hubbert III.

Ian Lara Stand-Up Comedy Show

Time TBA — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — Ticket prices vary — Experience the comedic talents of one of NYC's rising stars as he takes the stage in Birmingham.

BLOCKFEST Car and Bike Show

10 AM - 9 PM — Legion Field — Free parking — Experience awesome rides and good vibes at this car and bike extravaganza.

Alabama State Wrestling Games

All day — Fultondale High School — USA Wrestling card required — Compete in Folkstyle and Freestyle wrestling with divisions for Masters men and women.

KODU: Programming Video Game Design for Rising 5th-8th Graders

8 AM - 12 PM — Alabama School of Fine Arts — Cost not specified — Explore game design with Kodu, a visual programming language for creating fun digital games.

The Acacia Strain Live Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — Workplay Theatre — Tickets start at $84 — Experience an unforgettable live show with The Acacia Strain in Birmingham.

Pottery Night at Back Forty

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Back Forty Beer Company Birmingham — $70 — Get creative with clay and enjoy a relaxed evening of crafting a handmade serving piece.

Fireside Collective Concert

7-11:30 p.m. — Avondale Brewing Company — Tickets available via Ticketmaster — Enjoy an evening filled with vibrant music from the Fireside Collective.

Stand-Up Comedy with Caleb Elliott

7-10 p.m. — Main Room — Two-item minimum — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising comedian Caleb Elliott showcasing his unique style and wit.

Tyreek McDole Live at Carver Theatre

7-9 p.m. — Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame — $35 – $50 — Experience a soulful evening with award-winning vocalist Tyreek McDole, blending artistry and healing through music.