Good morning, Birmingham.

Michael Dewaine Townsend, 39, a Jefferson County father whose wife died months ago, was injured at 10 p.m. Monday at U.S. Steel in Fairfield and died at Princeton Baptist Medical Center at 11:14 p.m. after the railcar he was riding sideswiped another railcar—leaving four children behind.

Local business owners met with U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell at a roundtable to discuss how tariffs are raising costs on imported goods, with several noting that higher prices for supplies such as paper and electronics are already hurting their operations.

Owner Melissa Kendrick of Sojourn's Fair Trade said a 10% tariff cuts into small profit margins + many expect increased costs once the 90-day tariff pause ends on July 9.

Gov. Kay Ivey signed HB 445 which will regulate hemp products by banning smokable hemp and synthetic cannabinoids while allowing edibles and drinks with 10 mg THC per serving; the law takes effect July 1 and full enforcement begins January 1 — penalties and strict licensing rules will apply to sellers under the new law. This measure aims to tighten control over hemp-derived products in the state.

City Walk, a 31-acre space that costs nearly $120,000 each month to run, faces serious funding problems and tight budgets as local leaders strive to cover its high expenses.

City officials and stakeholders will soon meet to plan a more sustainable funding approach while a $250,000 grant helps ease the burden + community members share mixed reactions.

The City of Birmingham finalized the purchase of a 4.5-mile stretch of abandoned rail line along Valley Creek on June 18th to launch the Valley Creek rails-to-trails project that will connect local communities.

The project, partly funded — with a $4 million federal grant — is expected to complete by early 2027 and give residents a new way to travel and enjoy outdoor spaces.

After a long legal fight, a judge will soon decide who gets medical cannabis licenses as applicants must defend their eligibility in investigative hearings.

Joey Robertson, originally awarded a license in December 2023, said he feels sorry for the patients waiting for relief — hearings will start next month with final decisions taking a few more months.

A new guide lists Birmingham’s top wine bars where locals can enjoy special bottle deals and fine pours this summer.

Freddy’s in Highland Park — featuring Tuesday specials — and other favorites have clear hours and locations to help plan a fun night out.

ESPN announced that its SportsCenter will tour all 50 states this summer — with a stop in Birmingham on July 1 to cover the World Police and Fire Games live at 11 a.m. with host Matt Barrie leading the broadcast.

Birmingham is bidding to host the U.S. Olympic gymnastics team trials for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles + the city is one of four finalists after hosting major events like the SEC Championship and the 2022 World Games.

An Evening with Heart

7:30-9 p.m. — Legacy Arena — Tickets available — Experience legendary rock band Heart performing their classic hits live.

Stop Light Observations Concert

5-7 p.m. — Avondale Brewing Company — Free entry — Experience a lively fusion of blues, pop, and indie rock from the dynamic band Stop Light Observations.

Jazz on 4th: Melvin Miller featuring Aria

5-6 p.m. — Carver Theatre for the Performing Arts — Ticket purchase required — Experience the captivating fusion of funky pop grooves and traditional jazz artistry in a live performance by Melvin M. Miller and Aria.

Sober Supper Club

12-9 p.m. — The Lumbar — Check event page for pricing — Celebrate alcohol-free dining with curated cocktails and meals.

Commercial Turf Management Workshop

9 AM – 2 PM — West Homewood Athletic Center — Contact for cost — Enhance your turf management skills with expert-led IPM strategies for Alabama.

Comic Mischief

9 PM — The Nick — $8.72 — Enjoy a night of laughter with live performances at this exclusive 21+ venue.

2025 World Police & Fire Games

June 27th - July 6th — BJCC North Exhibition Hall — Check event schedule for costs — Celebrate the remarkable skills and spirit of first responders at this Olympic-style competition.

Eunice Elliott Stand-Up Comedy Show

5:15 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $18.50 — Enjoy a night of relatable humor from the 'Funniest Person in Birmingham'.

Meka Carey Stand-Up Comedy Show

6:30 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $30.50 — Enjoy an evening of relatable humor and authentic storytelling from rising comedian Meka Carey.

Play On Con

9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. — Alabama 4-H Center — Entry fees apply — Dive into a world of gaming and pop culture with exciting tournaments and workshops.