Good morning, Birmingham.

The Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS) is joining a growing opposition to the 75-acre Nebius AI factory planned in Oxmoor Valley.

The group expressed concerns about noise, traffic and safety near its animal healing campus as local officials review zoning guidelines.

Papa John's International announced it will close several stores across 17 states, with nearly 100 Alabama locations affected—one recently in Scottsboro—and two-thirds shutting in 2026 as part of plans to close up to 300 restaurants by year-end 2027.

An early Juneteenth celebration was held Saturday at Old Warrior High School to honor freedom, heritage, and unity.

Organized by the Ministerial Coalition, the event reminded locals of the 1865 announcement of freedom in Galveston — a historic turning point for the community.

Micah Blair will host the third African American Comic Expo on June 20 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the A.G.

Gaston Boys & Girls Club on Birmingham’s west side, where panels, vendors, a cosplay contest, and arts and crafts activities for kids promote Black nerd culture via his nonprofit Blerd Over Incorporated.

Calhoun County graduate Cade Miller won a national SkillsUSA title in CNC 2-Axis Turning Programming in Atlanta from June 1-5 and earned over $5,000—he will start a General Dynamics apprenticeship with Gadsden State Community College that lets him work three days a week while taking classes.

Woodlawn Branch Library is hosting its Summer Reading Program with free events for all ages, starting with a hip-hop show by KRU HipHop on Wednesday, June 17 at 1:30–2:30 p.m. Other events, including tech workshops and community meet-ups, are scheduled through early July at 5701 First Ave. North.

Mountain Brook officials remind residents that commercial lawn equipment is not allowed before 7 a.m. or after 6 p.m. on weekdays and not before 8 a.m. on weekends as temperatures rise—rules designed to keep residential areas quiet.

Jackson Hospital’s board announced that if Blue Cross Blue Shield does not offer fair rates by June 25, the hospital will begin closing on July 1 to avoid overburdening nearby facilities.

CEO John Quinlivan warned that without an agreement, the hospital’s operations will be unsustainable.

Center Point fire chief warns that the risk of kitchen fires will increase this summer (residents are urged to check appliances and follow safety tips) as warmer weather boosts cooking activity.

Blueberry season is on in Alabama with family-friendly U-pick options now open or opening soon.

Bear Mountain Blueberry Farm (just outside Birmingham) will open mid-June and other farms in Cullman, Eastaboga, and beyond offer fresh picks at set prices.

A RotoWire survey finds the Crimson Tide is ranked as the second-most hated college football team, with six states naming them the worst.

Notre Dame led in eight states, reflecting national views on college football rivalries.

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.

Sunday Story Seven with Matt Davis and Mamie Lew

7-9 p.m. — True Story Brewing Company — $10 — Experience an evening of captivating open mic storytelling and live music from talented artists.

Alabama's Funniest - Preliminary Round

7-10 p.m. — Stardome Comedy Club — Ticket required — Help determine who moves forward in the quest to crown Alabama’s Funniest Person.

Matt McCusker Live Show

7-10 p.m. — Stardome Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of comedy with acclaimed comedian and podcaster Matt McCusker.

Matt McCusker Live

7-10 p.m. — Stardome Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian and actor Matt McCusker as he performs live.

Excelsior Band Live Performance

5-6 p.m. — Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts — $15 — Experience the vibrant sounds of the Excelsior Band, deeply rooted in Mobile's rich musical legacy.