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🌱 Patch AM: How Judge Sparks reshaped Birmingham’s courts before hanging up the robe

Coming up: Cinco de Mayo at Rojo on the Birmingham Patch calendar

Monday May 4th Patch AM (Patch graphic)

Morning Birmingham! We've got the scoop on the latest happenings in town. Read on to get looped in. ☕️️

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In today's newsletter:

  • How Judge Sparks reshaped Birmingham’s courts before hanging up the robe
  • Ready to discover Birmingham’s overlook that feels straight out of a painting?
  • How Charles Barkley just helped Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham

Also on today's calendar: Cinco de Mayo at Rojo and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: Why is the mushroom always invited to the party? 🤔 (Answer below!)


Weather forecast:

  • Monday: Mostly sunny and pleasant, with a high of 78 and low of 54 degrees.
  • Tuesday: Some sun, then turning cloudy, temps: high: 78, low: 64.
  • Wednesday: Humid; a strong p.m. t-storm, with a high of 80 and low of 67 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Presiding Judge Andra Sparks Celebrates Retirement From Birmingham's Criminal Justice System (birminghamtimes.com) — Birmingham residents are saying thank you to Presiding Judge Andra Sparks, who’s retiring after transforming the city’s municipal court into a nationally recognized, tech-forward model with specialty dockets that helped thousands. From founding the Common Ground program in every Birmingham city school to serving as senior pastor, Sparks plans to continue his ministry while leaving a lasting mark on local justice.    

2. The Most Scenic Alabama Overlook That Looks Straight Out Of A Painting (myfamilytravels.com) — If you’re craving a quick escape without leaving Birmingham, Hawk’s View at Ruffner Mountain offers sweeping skyline and quarry views just minutes from busy streets. The article walks you through trail options, seasonal scenery, and nearby Birmingham spots like Saw’s Soul Kitchen, Railroad Park, and Sloss Furnaces, making it easy to plan a relaxing, photo-worthy outing close to home.    

3. Charles Barkley donates $25,000 to children's hospitals through Regions Tradition (usatoday.com) — Birmingham-area families should know Children’s of Alabama just received a $25,000 boost from Charles Barkley through the Regions Tradition golf event in the city. The Auburn legend’s latest gift adds to his long record of philanthropy, including major donations to several historically Black colleges and pediatric cancer research efforts.    

4. UFL Week 6 roundup: Former Alabama prep star posts 135 receiving yards (al.com) — Birmingham Stallions fans just watched receiver Justyn Ross explode for 135 yards and a touchdown in a 20-17 win over the Orlando Storm, capped by a clutch 31-yard catch to seal the game. The UFL Week 6 roundup also highlights other league results and notes Ross’ long journey from Central-Phenix City star to Birmingham standout.    

5. Taylor Hicks wins on ‘American Idol' in 2006: Looking back at his victory (al.com) — Birmingham’s own Taylor Hicks is remembered here for his 2006 “American Idol” win, following fellow hometown winner Ruben Studdard and other Magic City finalists. The piece revisits his finale night in Los Angeles, his promise to return to Birmingham, and the local venues where he honed his sound before national fame, offering a nostalgic look at a big moment for the city’s music scene.    


📸 Around Birmingham

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Birmingham

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🪧 Patch Classifieds

  • Yamaha AR230 High Output HO - 2007 - $17,250
    Motivated Seller - Great boat - Good Condition – Upgraded sound system and dual batteries. Bimini Top. Ready for Summer! Additional Photos:... (More info)

💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Anyone missing a black and white cat with a pink nose.
    Looks younger - I can't tell if it is a boy or girl. Showed up at my house last night and got this on my camera. I've since caught them in my humane… (Nextdoor Five Points South)
  • This dog is running thru our back yard, and trying to get into our back door.
    No collar, and seems lost and confused. If he is yours, he is sitting on our patio patiently watching us. (Nextdoor Greystone Founders and Legacy)
  • The Scion Group posted a job opening for Porter, Full-Time in Birmingham. Apply here.
  • Marriott International posted a job opening for Night Auditor & Hotel Operations in Birmingham. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Birmingham here.

Ok Birmingham! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: He is a fungi (Thank you Liz N. for sending it in!)Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!


👉 Help make Patch AM better

We use a combination of real people and machines to tell you what’s happening around town. Learn more about Patch AM.


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