The week of November 15, 1971 was a historic turning point for the city of Birmingham. Pollution from the Magic City’s heavy industry combined to create a public health crisis, with pollution levels reaching unprecedented levels. The newly formed EPA came to town to exercise its authority under the Clean Air Act. On November 18, U.S. District Court Judge Sam C. Pointer, Jr., signed a restraining order halting industry operations. The crisis was finally abated.

Forty-four years later, we will honor “the day they shut Birmingham down” by paying tribute to the progress we’ve made and look ahead towards a healthier future. Join us November 18 from 5:30–8:30 p.m. as we toast to clean air in the Treehouse at Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve. Enjoy complimentary wine, beer, hors d’oeuvres and networking with friends and colleagues. The event is free, but a donation is recommended.