🌱 Field Trip Grant For Civil Rights Monument + Storm SBA Loans

Happy Friday, people of Birmingham! Let's get this day started off right. Here's everything you need to know today in town.

First, today's weather:

Mild with sunshine. High: 69 Low: 45.

Here are the top three stories in Birmingham today:

1. The Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument has received a grant for a program for fourth graders in Birmingham and Jefferson County. The grant, called Open Outdoors for Kids,was awarded by the National Park Foundation and will fund the development of curriculum-based programming, including free bus transportation and free entry at affiliated sites. The program begins officially begins today, Feb. 11. (Alabama NewsCenter)
2. After severe storms hit the Birmingham area on Oct. 6-7, 2021, homeowners, renters, and businesses who were affected may now apply for low-interest loans with the Small Business Administration. President Joseph Biden approved a major disaster declaration on Dec. 21 for Jefferson and Shelby counties. Businesses can apply for an SBA loan of up to $2 million, homeowners can apply for up to $200,000, and renters can apply for up to $40,000. (City of Birmingham)
3. More than 70 first responders participated in a unique five-day training program as part of the continued preparation for the World Games 2022. The Alabama Fire College, City of Birmingham, and Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency partnered to coordinate the training. Barber Motorsports Park provided the facilities for the highly specialized training exercise. (Press Release Desk)

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Today in Birmingham:

• Valentine’s Day Weekend Dine-In And To-Go Specials At Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille (4:00 PM)
• Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Menu At Vino Restaurant (4:00 PM)
• Fitness For Charity Workout Event At University of Alabama at Birmingham (6:00 PM)
• Galentine's Weekend Murder Mystery Event At UAB ArtPlay House (6:30 PM)
• Lunar Valentine's: Love Under the Moon Event At University of Alabama at Birmingham, Heritage Hall (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Could one of these recently-listed Birmingham properties be your new dream home? Check out the details of these five local houses for sale. (Birmingham Patch)
• Spending Valentine's Day weekend in the Birmingham area with your sweetheart? Plan on dinner and a show with local restaurant specials and performances! See what's happening this weekend in the area. (Birmingham Patch)
• Get ready for a sunny and beautiful weekend! High temps will be in the 60s today and tomorrow, followed by a chillier (but still sunny) Sunday. (Birmingham Patch)

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• The Better Skin Co. — (Visit website)
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Events:

• Comedian Killer Beaz Valentine's Extravaganza (February 12)
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Thanks for following along and staying informed! I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow morning with your next update.

— Kayla Harrison

About me: Kayla Harrison is a Writing Arts professor, as well as a freelance writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners. In her free time, you can find her listening to podcasts, writing poetry, and visiting local coffee shops.