Author: Virginia Martin
Penny Foundation Brings Inaugural Debate, College Prep Events to Birmingham
Samford University and Howard University debaters will face off Friday during the inaugural Southern Scholars Debate Classic to argue the question of whether a majority-two-party system is the best way to govern the United States. A second academics-focused community event – a career-prep showcase for area high schoolers, their families and school staff – will follow on Sunday. Read more.
Council Approves Changes to Sign Ordinances, Applies for Grant for Bridge Repairs
Changes include limiting pole signs along scenic corridors and allowing more attached signs, such as awnings. Read more.
Birmingham Mayor Announces Commission to Study Homicide Reduction, Report Findings in 60 Days
New commission will include more than 20 business, community and law enforcement leaders who will identify strategies to reduce homicides in the Magic City. Read more.
Family Fun Center to Be Built at CrossPlex
The multi-activity center — including bowling lanes, a skating rink, arcade and video games along with a bounce house and food court — has been discussed for the western-area community for almost two years and now is becoming a reality. Read more.
JeffCo Commission Delays Decision on High-Density Development, Wants New Rules in Place First
Jefferson County Commissioners have been considering a proposal that originally would have built a patio garden home development in the McCalla area. Read more.
Media love political polls. Unfortunately.
Polls are here to stay, but do people – or even the media – understand them? UA instructor of news media Tom Arenberg discusses what to take into consideration. Read more.
Density in Proposed Residential Developments Concerns Jefferson County Commission
A McCalla-area development request on Thursday’s commission agenda has stirred the conversation about high-density development proposals and their locations. Read more.
A Seat at the Table: Group Brings Together Unhoused and Housed Folks at Railroad Park Picnic
Urban Purpose’s A Seat at the Table event was designed to put people on a level playing field during a relaxed, laid-back late afternoon hang out, leaders said. Read more.
Woodfin Turns Up Heat on Violence Prevention With New Programs, Council OKs $15M for Officer Recruitment and Retention
After a string of murders and mass murders, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin presented a plan to the City Council on Tuesday to expand community safety and violence reduction efforts. Read more.
Increased Government Support Creates Brighter Future for Area Parks
The Jefferson County Greenways Commission was formed last year and this summer, the county appointed its first parks director. Read more.
