🌱 Two Prison Inmates Die + Vestavia Schools Request Tax Increase

Hello all. It's me, Miranda Fraraccio, your host of the Birmingham Daily. Let's get this Tuesday started off right, with a quick dive into the most important things happening in town these days.

First, today's weather:

Humid with a t-storm or two. High: 89 Low: 74.

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Here are the top three stories today in Birmingham:

1. Two inmates at the William Donadson Correctional Facility in Bessemer died within a day of each other. They were each found unresponsive in the prison infirmary. One was found on Friday, Jul. 29 and the other was found on Saturday. Both inmates were 65 years old and were receiving care for a "significant natural disease." Click the link to learn more about each of the inmates. (WIAT - CBS42.com)
2. Vestavia City Schools are expected to request a tax increase for upgrades. Reportedly, the school board will be requesting a property tax increase to fund a plan with "substantial" upgrades to school facilities. Taxpayers say they have concerns about whether there is a true need for the increase. The tax increase would be a ballot issue for voters, likely to come in the spring. You can see a video with a full report at the link. (WVTM13 Birmingham)
3. Hot summer temperatures can affect your car. A local mechanic spoke with WBRC about the various ways the heat can damage your vehicle. For one, the battery can be damaged significantly. Another concern is engine fans, which can fail due to the high temperatures. See the full list of dangers at the link. (WBRC)

Today in Birmingham:

• Shark Week at Springville Road Library (All Day)
• Chamber Luncheon at Country Club of Birmingham (11:00 AM)
• Dumbledore's Army at Homewood Public Library (3:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• James Spann shared a beautiful photo at Gulf Shores. See the clouds, the sunset, and the skyline at the link. (James Spann via Instagram)
• Birmingham City Schools will be opening for a new school year in less than a week. Doors open Monday, Aug. 8. Click the link for info on how to register. (Birmingham City Schools via Facebook)
• Looking for work? The Birmingham Zoo is hiring! Accounting, administrative, animal care, guest services, and operations are all on the table. (The Birmingham Zoo via Facebook)

You're officially in the loop for today. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with another update!

— Miranda Fraraccio

About me: Miranda Fraraccio is a born and raised Rhode Islander, now living in New York. She works as a staff writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and is a graduate of The University of Rhode Island, where she earned a degree in Writing & Rhetoric and Communication Studies. In her free time, you can find her traveling, drinking tea, or photographing her neighborhood as a street photographer.