Good morning, Birmingham.

Warrior firefighter Sydney Watson, 27, died Saturday battling the Knowles Fire in western Colorado; two other firefighters also lost their lives and two were injured as officials investigate the fatal incident.

Taqueria La Juanita has opened its second location in Irondale at 1819 Crestwood Blvd next to the Waffle House and operates daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., serving tacos, burritos, quesadillas and other Mexican favorites for family-friendly dining.

Owner George Sarris, 74, has kept The Fish Market running for 43 years by starting his day at 7 a.m. in his signature apron and he plans to work until he can no longer do so (serving loyal customers at Sixth Ave and 22nd St).

U.S. Steel is investing $475 million to add a new Quench and Tempering line at its Fairfield Tubular Operations, with full production expected by Q2 2029; the project will upgrade employee areas and install a new training center (using virtual reality) to meet growing oil and gas demand.

Local residents gathered at Arlington Antebellum Home and Gardens for a free concert as part of the (Taste of Music in Communities) series, designed to bring live music across neighborhoods this summer.

The next concert will take place July 12 at One Pratt Park in Pratt City.

Rock the South festival will celebrate its 15th anniversary from Oct.

1-4 at The Fields at Decatur with an expanded lineup of over 30 artists; the event debuts its first-ever Midway Fair featuring carnival rides, games & food.

Gas prices in Birmingham have dropped nearly 13 cents this week ahead of the July 4 holiday.

The average regular gasoline price is now $3.43 per gallon and ranges from $3.15 to $3.99 (GasBuddy surveyed 550 stations) while national averages continue to favor lower rates.

Local environmental groups are removing river barriers + featuring underwater photography to highlight Alabama’s diverse freshwater life as 22,961 dams block fish migration.

Residents interested in joining educational partnerships may support efforts to let rivers flow freely and boost local fish reproduction.

Birmingham's First Alert Weather Day is in effect today with temperatures around the mid 90s and a heat index reaching 108°F.

Residents are urged to stay hydrated + limit outdoor activity to avoid heat-related illness.

The ADPH warned residents today that a heat wave over the next week may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for those 65 and older (and for those on certain medications).

Energy officials also recommended sealing air leaks and reducing power use to help manage rising temperatures.

City leaders will open about a dozen cooling stations when the heat index reaches 95° or above this week to provide air-conditioned spaces and water to vulnerable residents (including seniors and those without air conditioning), urging neighbors to plan activities nearby for safety.

Birmingham residents can beat the summer heat by trying indoor activities like ice skating at Pelham Civic Center (open year-round), bowling, movie screenings, and museum visits.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama advises staying hydrated and protecting your skin during the hottest midday hours.

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry is set to enter the 2026 season 1,464 all-purpose yards short of breaking Terrell Owens’ record among players with Alabama roots, after finishing 2025 with 1,745 yards & fueling excitement for the new season.

Thompson freshman quarterback Jahari Nation, 14, has drawn recruiting interest from Florida International, UAB, and East Tennessee State University as he continues to learn from mentor Trent Seaborn — coach Mark Freeman said he is ready to play if needed.

Birmingham Legion FC vs Detroit City FC

7-10 p.m. — Protective Stadium - Green Lot — Check event page for ticket info — Experience the thrill of the USL Championship match between Birmingham Legion and Detroit City.

Aries Spears Live

8:30-11:30 p.m. — Stardome Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying comedy of Aries Spears at one of America's premier venues.

Magic Mondays Board Game Night

6-9 p.m. — Birmingham District Brewing Company — Free entry — Gather for weekly board game nights with your favorite games and refreshing brews.

Navigating Alabama's 2025 License Law Changes

1:30-4:30 p.m. — RealtySouth Training Center — Free entry — Learn about the upcoming changes in license law regarding agency, disclosure, and representation.

Country Dance Party

8-11 p.m. — Saturn — Ticketed — Celebrate the joy of country music with hits and two-stepping at a vibrant dance party.

Scott Ivey & The Filthy Frets with Rare Birds

— Time Range — The Nick — Membership card required ($7/year) — Experience country music fused with blue-eyed soul by a seasoned artist.

I Saw Them When Tour

4:00 p.m. — Seasick Records — Free entry — Experience live music in a vibrant Birmingham venue with a great local reputation.

Magic Mondays

6-9 p.m. — Birmingham District Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy a casual night of board games and brews in a friendly atmosphere.

Sammy Obeid Live Comedy Show

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Main Room — Ticket package includes food & beverage credit — Experience the comedic genius of Sammy Obeid, known for his world record of performing comedy 1,001 nights in a row.

Watts Up with Energy

1:30-4:30 p.m. — RealtySouth Training Center — Free admission — Enhance your skills to help clients make informed home buying decisions.