Good morning, Birmingham.

Regions Bank launched a season-long campaign to mark 30 years as the SEC’s official bank, offering game-day activations + video podcasts + digital storytelling + a television commercial celebrating SEC traditions.

The first activation is set for Sept. 19 in Oxford during the LSU-Ole Miss matchup.

The Southbound Food Festival returns from Sept.

18 to 27 with over 100 food and beverage talents across Birmingham. Highlights include the Heritage Dinner at Pepper Place featuring 11 chefs & Funk Brunch on Sept. 27 with chef Breanne Kostyk.

On Labor Day weekend, Alabama drivers paid nearly 97 cents more per gallon, with statewide prices around $3.80 while the national average approached $4 and set a holiday record.

Global tensions kept crude prices elevated, driving up gasoline costs.

Data from the U.S. Courts and Census Bureau shows that Alabama ranked first nationally in bankruptcy filings from 2020 to 2025 (almost 400 personal filings per 100,000 residents in 2025).

Filings rose about 25% from 16,561 in 2022 to 20,636 in 2025 and are 142% above the national average.

UAB will welcome its largest freshman class ever this fall with an estimated 2,600 first-time students + a 3% increase over last year's record.

The university will expand its SUCCESS Initiative with new courses and support services to boost student success.

Gov. Ivey introduced the Moore family last Friday — highlighting how brothers Javontae and Jacobe Moore thrive at Miracle Academy using CHOOSE Act funds for the 2026-27 school year.

The program helps the boys succeed in a safe, supportive learning environment.

Residents aged 15–24 can lead climate action in Birmingham with microgrants from $1,000 to $5,000 plus technical and mentorship support via Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund.

Applications must be submitted by email through approved local partners by Oct. 9, and projects should address one of the city's climate priorities.

After a 48-10 win over East Carolina, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer and his coordinators held a press conference Monday in Tuscaloosa (highlighting plans to curb penalties and boost offensive cohesion) ahead of Saturday's SEC game, with Kentucky set to host Alabama under new coach Will Stein.

Alabama won by a score of 48 to 10 over ECU on Saturday as Ryan Coleman-Williams rebounded from two drops with five catches for 130 yards (displaying progress and determination).

The Tide will face Kentucky on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT in Lexington.