Good morning, Birmingham.

The Essential has reopened after a 10-day renovation that refreshed its look with wood panel details, a neon pigeon logo, and an updated menu with new dishes.

Owner and head chef Victor King said the expanded kitchen and bar—now called Paul and Tina’s after his cats—allow for a more spacious workspace and extra menu options.

A new mobile app called Kraven helps Birmingham residents locate local food trucks quickly — the free app lets truck owners update their location and menu details and has been live for about two months with plans to add online ordering soon.

A new burger joint called Vito’s Burger Joint opened in Lakeview at 3507 6th Ave S and now serves breakfast and lunch with burgers, hot dogs, and more.

Owners Vito and Tricia Rosato, who previously ran Sneaky Pete’s, developed a made-to-order menu—ensuring fresh, quality meals for both longtime customers and new faces.

Indie rock band Mt. Joy will perform live at Birmingham's Coca-Cola Amphitheater on April 14—presented by Birmingham Mountain Radio.

Tickets go on sale on Nov. 14 at 10 a.m. and fans should act quickly since the shows often sell out.

Theatre UAB will stage 'A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder' in Birmingham — a production that blends mystery and romance — with performance dates to be announced soon.

Gas prices in Birmingham stayed steady this week at around $2.64 per gallon on Monday—still 10.2 cents lower than a month ago.

A survey of 550 stations showed prices ranging from $2.39 to $2.99 while neighboring cities saw small increases.

Jefferson County Greenways tells homeowners to leave fallen leaves on the ground this fall to help bugs and trees.

The group explains that leaves create a safe home for insects in winter and improve the soil naturally.

Today, as Birmingham faces its first below-freezing temperatures, the city has partnered with The Jimmie Hale Mission and Pathways to open overnight warming stations for those without shelter.

The city is investing $95,000 for winter support including cots, blankets, meals, and a police presence for safety — free shuttle service runs from Linn Park each evening.

Birmingham fire officials and energy experts advised residents to inspect heating devices and seal doors and windows as temperatures dropped to reduce fire risks and conserve energy — they warned that neglecting these checks could lead to fires and higher bills.

Dani Sims leads the Recovery Resource Center at Cooper Green Mercy Health Services — drawing on her own battle with addiction to guide support for others in need.

City leaders honored her work with a proclamation that underlines her commitment to advocacy.

Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort will host free holiday events in December including Holiday Fireside Readings, Breakfast with Santa, Cocoa and Caroling, and Polar Express Pajama Night at a location 30 minutes south of downtown.

The resort, which also offers upscale dining and family staycations, provides a stylish, stress-free way for guests to celebrate the season—detailed events run from December 2 to December 21.

Longtime head coach Chris Hatcher was relieved of his duties after a 38-14 home loss to East Tennessee State that left the Bulldogs 1-9 this season—he finished his tenure with a 62-59 record after three challenging seasons and Samford will prepare for its upcoming road game against Austin Peay.

Atreyu Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Iron City Bham — Tickets available through Vivid Seats and Ticketmaster — Catch the powerhouse performance of Atreyu live in Birmingham.

Alabama Fiber Festival

9 AM – 5 PM — Cahaba Brewing Company — Tickets available now — Celebrate creativity at this vibrant fiber arts festival with workshops and marketplace.

Rodney Perry Comedy Show

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $24.50 to $30.50 — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Rodney Perry, known for his dynamic performances and rich history in the comedy scene.

Shayne Smith: Stand-Up Comedy

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr — $20 to $30 — Enjoy an evening with Shayne Smith, an up-and-coming comedian known for his unique storytelling.

Gabby's Dollhouse Live!

5 p.m. — BJCC Concert Hall — Ticketed event — Experience an enchanting live show featuring Gabby and the Gabby Cats in a colorful quest to restore the rainbow.

Jagged Edge Concert

7-9 p.m. — Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex — Ticket prices vary — Experience smooth harmonies and unforgettable R&B hits from the iconic group Jagged Edge.

ACE Cheer Company - Meet the Tribe

9:00 – 10:30 AM — BJCC North Exhibition Hall — Free entry — Experience cheerleading excellence and personal growth with ACE Cheer Company.

John Morgan - Standup Comedy Show

6:30-8 p.m. — Main Room, 1818 Data Dr, Birmingham, AL — $24.50 — Experience the heartfelt and bold humor of the 'Ragin Cajun' as he tackles real-life topics with a comedic twist.

Kimberly Akimbo

7:30 p.m. — BJCC Concert Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a heartwarming and humorous journey of a teenager navigating family and life challenges.

Kimberly Akimbo Musical

7:30-9:00 p.m. — BJCC East Exhibition Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartwarming journey of a teen overcoming obstacles in this Tony Award-winning musical.