Good morning, Birmingham.

Birmingham men will ride in a 24-hour New Year’s challenge starting at midnight today at the Brother Bryan Mission to raise $10,000 for new bikes & safety gear that support addiction recovery, led by volunteer Kristen Zeanah.

Nearly 90 new businesses have opened across Birmingham this year, featuring restaurants, salons, shops and bars.

The list of 85 openings highlights fresh energy in local commerce as the city wraps up 2025.

The New Orleans-themed restaurant Toujours Restaurant opens today in Hoover at 4524 Southlake Parkway, Suite 7.

Reservations are required; call (205) 5385333 as chef Daniel Mitchell aims to boost the local dining scene.

Alabama ACTE earned national recognition this month at ACTE’s Leadership Breakfast for record membership growth after adding 723 new national members (a 349% increase).

The award spotlights the group’s focus on career and technical education to prepare students for high-demand careers.

Starting Tuesday, Jan.

6, the Alabama Department of Transportation will shift traffic on I-59 in Trussville by moving northbound vehicles to outside lanes and narrowing lanes at I-459 — US-11 drivers are advised to seek alternate routes.

Health officials report that flu-related visits to emergency departments jumped over 100% from Dec.

13 to Dec. 20 with rates rising from 2% to 6% following the flu-related death of an 11-year-old in Hueytown, and caution that the surge may continue for weeks.

Officials in Jefferson County reported multiple overdose deaths recently, and local health agencies are reviewing data and planning outreach programs to support affected residents.

Alabama State Parks will host First Day Hikes on Jan.

1 to celebrate the new year with guided hikes through scenic spots including Chewacla, DeSoto, and King’s Chair. Visitors are encouraged to register online for a free, family-friendly adventure that may be affected by winter weather.

Earlier this month, Jefferson County Planning and Zoning approved a rezoning request for the property on U.S. 78 in Dora to let a new lounge and bar open in the place of Wesley’s Boobie Trap.

The final decision awaits County Commission approval as local residents voice concerns about the change.

An Atlanta-based investor acquired The Plaza (home to Viva Health) for $10.55M on Dec.

23 in downtown Birmingham. It is the first major downtown office sale since UAB bought a building in 2023.

Georgia Southern defeated Appalachian State 29-10 in the 2025 edition of the JLab Birmingham Bowl at Protective Stadium under sunny skies and chilly temperatures in the low 40s.

Alabama Crimson Tide will face undefeated Indiana in the Rose Bowl on New Year's Day in a game forecast to have rain and tough defense challenges; defensive lineman Tim Keenan said the team remains confident as it trusts faith and close support.

Be Worth Funding Bootcamp

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Innovation Depot Inc — $197 — A full-day training for nonprofit leaders focused on sustainable funding and mission clarity.

Gentry Blue Live Concert

7-10:30 p.m. — The Nick — $7 Membership Card required — Experience the sonic depths of Gentry Blue's debut album 'Fragments'.

Hartley Deatherage’s SuperJam

8-11 p.m. — The Nick — Membership required ($7/year) — Enjoy a night of Alternative Rock at a renowned local venue.

C.A. Jones Concert

7-10 p.m. — Saturn — Ticket information available — Experience the melodic vibes of C.A. Jones with hits including Aquarius Moon.

JD Baker at The Fennec

5:30-8 p.m. — The Fennec - Sports Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a mix of acoustic vibes and lively jam sessions with local musician JD Baker.

East Tennessee State Buccaneers vs. Samford Bulldogs Basketball

1-3 p.m. — Pete Hanna Center — Free trial available — Catch the live action as two college basketball teams face off in a thrilling matchup.

Magic City Bitcoin Meetup

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Avondale Brewing Company — Free entry — Engage with local enthusiasts to discuss all things bitcoin.

Carl Broemel Concert

8-10 p.m. — Saturn — Ticket prices vary — Experience Carl Broemel's soulful blend of folk, rock, and country in a vibrant music venue.

2026 AMEA Professional Development Conference

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex — Registration required — Explore professional development for music educators in a vibrant setting.

Trippin With Ty: Laughs and Good Vibes

5-8 p.m. — The Venue on 20th — Free entry — Enjoy good vibes, crazy stories, and nonstop laughs in person.