Good morning, Birmingham.

On July 28 and 29, 2026, Protective Stadium filled with over 50,000 fans to host the R&B Tour featuring Chris Brown & Usher.

Crews used 85 18-wheelers and 700 workers to transform the venue with LED screens, protective flooring, rigging, and staging.

Randy Owen’s documentary — My Home’s in Alabama: The Randy Owen Story — airs today at 7 p.m. on Alabama Public Television.

Produced by Jacksonville State University’s Longleaf Studios, it traces his journey from a farm boy in DeKalb County to an iconic musician and highlights the community that shaped him.

Shelby County Schools warns parents that most of its 350 buses lack air conditioning — drivers plan to lower windows and run efficient routes ahead of classes starting next Thursday.

Families are urged to dress students in lightweight clothing and keep them hydrated as summer heat persists.

UAB neuroscientist Farah Lubin, Ph.D., outlined brain health tips as the school year begins, recommending regular sleep, mindful stress management, and spaced retrieval practice to boost learning and memory (methods based on neuroplasticity research).

The University of Alabama System is expanding its nursing programs to combat a statewide nurse shortage.

UAB launched an ongoing BSN program this summer and UAH will start a redesigned curriculum this fall — plans include doubling enrollment and expanding clinical training to prepare more local nurses by 2030.

Birmingham officials approved a park-like Birmingham Oasis at 600 3rd Avenue North to offer daytime resources such as meals, showers, storage, and access to housing services for people experiencing homelessness.

The center will operate 12–14 hours daily and open in late September.

At UAB, a $5 million gift from Norman Estes has advanced plans to expand cancer trials at the O’Neal Cancer Center (NCI-designated).

The funding will boost patient access to new treatments across the region.

UAB startup LifeNuclear is testing TheraGuide, a digital platform that turns complex radiation safety instructions into clear guidance for patients and caregivers.

The tool (in beta evaluation via Apple’s TestFlight) will be refined with clinical partner feedback before pilot evaluations begin.

The Jefferson County Department of Health reported 21 restaurants scored below 85 in July, with Homewood and nearby areas facing issues—ranging from food temperature lapses to pest sightings.

Some establishments have improved upon re-inspection while others must be re-inspected within 60 days.

Birmingham residents can explore eight refreshing swimming holes under hot summer skies, offering safe escapes like Cahaba River and Sipsey Fork in Bankhead National Forest.

Visitors should check water levels + pack water shoes as some sites require a short hike.

Alabama high school flag football enters its sixth season with 134 public and 15 private teams in three divisions, as coaches named standout players based on last season's stats.

The season kicks off on Aug. 20 and several Terrific 20 picks are set to compete.

An international action-sports festival is underway in Birmingham at City Walk BHAM — hosting BMX, skateboarding, and 3x3 basketball events from Friday, Aug.

7 through Sunday, Aug. 9 as city leaders committed up to $1.5 million in lodging-tax incentives to boost tourism.