Good morning, Birmingham.

Before Monday, June 30th, 2025, the Birmingham Times Media Group won 10 first-place awards at the 2025 Alabama Press Association Media Awards presented Saturday at Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach, setting a record among 53 publications and 1,725 entries.

Freelance journalist Solomon Crenshaw Jr. and Design Editor Kathryn Sesser-Dorné earned top honors in key categories—further supported by additional second and third place awards.

On Sunday, June 29, 2025, residents visited City Walk to see police and fire vehicles during a free showcase hosted by the Birmingham Police Department’s Community Outreach and Public Education Division.

The event allowed people to connect with first responders—showing the equipment and teams that serve local neighborhoods—while welcoming visitors of all ages.

A Trussville man survived being sucked into an ungrated drainage pipe Friday during strong storms when flood waters pulled him under Highway 11 and railroad tracks for about 30 to 45 seconds—he suffered bruises and a scrapped wedding ring while rescuing his kids’ soccer balls from his yard.

A lightning strike hit a boat near Pirate Island on Logan Martin Lake on Sunday at 3:30 p.m.—fire crews rescued four passengers by having another vessel help them to shore, treating two on scene while sending one to UAB Hospital and noting that one occupant refused treatment—and the boat caught fire and sank during the incident.

On March 20th, officials reported that a deck collapsed in Helena and injured at least one person—further details are under investigation—prompting safety checks around similar structures.

A Birmingham man led Jefferson County detectives on a brief pursuit near Pinson on Wednesday and is now facing charges for drug trafficking, eluding arrest, unlawful possession, possession of drug paraphernalia, and tampering with evidence—he was arrested after driving into a ravine and police seized drugs, firearms, and other items.

Emma Terry was crowned Miss Alabama 2025 after judges narrowed the field from 13 to five to one—she will now compete at Miss America this fall aiming for back-to-back national titles after last year's winner secured the crown.

This milestone continues Alabama's legacy in the pageant circuit.

Christina Stimpson, chief officer of Alabama’s Global Business Office at the Department of Commerce, was appointed to the board of directors of the State International Development Organizations (SIDO), a national group that supports state trade programs.

She will represent the South region during the 2026/2027 term to help guide national trade policies.

Birmingham is hosting the 2025 World Police — Fire Games with opening ceremonies set to take place at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex City Walk and Legacy Arena.

Over 600 Alabama athletes and first responders from abroad will compete in events ranging from flag football to shooting at venues across the metro and nearby areas.

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.

44th Annual Peavine Falls Run

7 AM — Oak Mountain State Park — $40 — Celebrate Independence Day with a scenic run in the beautiful outdoors of Central Alabama.

Double D Comedy Show

6:30-9 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $24.50 — Enjoy a night of laughter with renowned comedian Double D, known for his engaging performances and warm spirit.

Sunday Funnies with Buddy Love

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Main Showroom At StarDome Comedy Club — Tickets from $62 — Enjoy a night of laughter with Buddy Love at the iconic comedy venue.

Rickey Smiley Karaoke Night

7-8:30 p.m. — Stardome Comedy Club — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy a lively karaoke night hosted by Rickey Smiley for the Woodlawn community.

White Denim Live Performance

8-10 PM — Saturn — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying sounds of White Denim live in Birmingham.

Rickey Smiley Live Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — StarDome Comedy Club — $30.50 — Experience a night of laughter with iconic comedic characters from Birmingham's own Rickey Smiley.

Henry Cho Live Comedy Show

7:30-1:30 a.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $30.50 to $41.50 — Celebrate comedy with Henry Cho, a Grand Ole Opry inductee and seasoned TV and film performer.

World Deer Expo 2025

3-9 p.m. — BJCC South Exhibition Hall — Cost varies — Experience the ultimate hunting consumer show with activities for all outdoor enthusiasts.

R&B Night with Joe and Changing Faces

7-8:30 p.m. — BJCC East Exhibition Hall — Experience smooth vocals and nostalgic vibes from R&B legends Joe and Changing Faces.