Birmingham, Sylacauga and Tuscaloosa County were named to the America’s Promise Alliance Top 100 Communities For Young People today. Sylacauga is a record five-time recipient and Birmingham and Tuscaloosa County have each received two nods from the APA.

Now in its fifth cycle, the competition searches the nation for communities of all sizes and demographics that go above and beyond to help decrease dropout rates among high school students and provide services and support to prepare their youth for a successful life.

The 100 communities honored also receive a $2,500 grant to further an existing youth program or to help celebrate their achievements.

To see all the 2011 winners, please visit the APA site.

Today at 2 p.m. BBVA Compas Foundation will present a check for $50,000 to Children's of Alabama for the creation of a new pediatric transplant program. The check presentation will take place at in the main lobby of Children's of Alabama at 1600 7th Avenue South.

From a BBVA Compass Bank press release:

The University of Alabama Homecoming kicked off this weekend with the 23rd annual Roll Tide Run on Sunday and continued today with several events, including the Crimson Kickoff Powder-puff football tournament. Each team paid $100 to register for the tournament and all proceeds will benefit the Susan G. Komen For the Cure Breast Cancer Foundation.

The annual Paint the Town Red window decorating contest took place today as well and tonight  at 9 p.m. students and alumni can attend the Student Government Association Homecoming Bowling Tournament at Bama Lanes.

Check out more photos on the University of Alabma Homecoming 2011 Facebook page.