Local University of Alabama alumni and Crimson Tide sports fans will have the chance to meet the school's president and baseball coach at a kickoff event celebrating the upcoming football season next week. Get our free mobile app“We’re thrilled to welcome members of the Alabama family back together for one of our favorite events of the year,” said Alyson Baxter, president of the Tuscaloosa County Chapter. The family-friendly event will feature a barbecue dinner, live entertainment, local vendors, a silent auction, and autographed sports memorabilia for sale. Proceeds benefit scholarship opportunities for students in the Tuscaloosa County area. For more exclusive coverage of community and University of Alabama news in West Alabama, stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread.