🌱 Humane Society Overflow + Free Kids Book Vending Machine Has Opened

Good morning, Birmingham! I'm here in your inbox per usual to get you caught up on everything you need to know about what's going on in town.

But first, today's weather:

Humid; a p.m. t-storm. High: 92 Low: 72.

Here are the top three stories in Birmingham today:

1. Animal euthanasia is increasing across the state and country due to humane society overflow. To help address the issue, the Shelby Humane Society has lowered all cat adoption fees to $5 because of their high kitten intake and record-low adoptions. GBHS believes the problem is because of rising inflation and pet expenses, as well as the lack of pet neutering. (WBRC)
2. Birmingham’s first book vending machine has opened! Stop by the Jefferson County Family Court building lobby to receive free children’s books, vending machine-style. They are hoping to give out over 200 books a week to families and children in need and to help encourage reading in high-poverty areas. (WVTM13 Birmingham)
3. The AmFirst Feeding Families Across Alabama Food Drive has started! Last year, the food drive was able to provide more than 22,314 pounds of food to those in need across Alabama. You can donate nonperishable food at any of the 21 America First Federal Credit Union branches throughout the month of July. Some of the most needed items include canned tuna in water, canned chicken, cereal, pasta, and more. See the full list here. (Cahaba Sun)

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Today in Birmingham:

Friday, July 7

• "Art In Nature" Summer Art Series At Five Points West Regional Branch Library (10:00 AM)
• Summer Film Series: The Mummy At Alabama Theatre (2:00 PM)
• Punk Night At True Story Brewing Company (6:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Congratulations to the 405 University of Alabama’s Early College students that were featured on the Spring 2023 Director’s List! With the UA Early College Program, High school students have the opportunity to earn college credit early! See the full list of students here. (The University of Alabama via Facebook)
• The Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service Department has released its June month in review with 5,883 total calls. Over 4,200 were medical calls and 197 were false alarm calls. See the full breakdown and rescue photos here. (Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service Department via Facebook)
• Looking to add a furry friend to your home? Meet Charlotte, a hound/retriever mix who is full of smiles and energy! Adoptions at the Greater Birmingham Humane Society are only $25 this month! (Greater Birmingham Humane Society via Facebook)

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You're officially in the loop for today. See you all tomorrow for another update!

— Danielle Fallon-O'Leary

About me: Danielle Fallon-O’Leary is a content manager with content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and assists Patch.com with community newsletter curation. Danielle also holds a Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and works part-time as a pediatric speech therapist.