Community Calendar

Free Computer & Smartphone Tutoring. One on One sessions available.

Free Computer & Smartphone Tutoring for Adults. One on One sessions available.

Free Computer & Smartphone Tutoring for Adults. One on One sessions available.

PLEASE NOTE THE NEW DATE!

Gossip as a Strategy to Compete for Resources
Dr. Nicole Hess (Washington State University)

Abstract: We investigate causal relationships among gossip, reputations, giving and receiving resources, and competition over resources. Evolutionary research aimed at uncovering the function(s) of gossip has found that some aspects of gossip behavior correlate with some kinds of cooperation. For example, we tend to share more gossip with those with whom we have close relationships, such as friends and romantic partners. However, few studies have explored the causal nature of links between between strategic, competitive gossip and how it impacts the distribution of benefits in groups, and almost no studies have been conducted in small scale societies. Here, working with Aka hunter-gatherers and Ngandu horticulturalists in the Central African Republic, as well as an international online sample, we use observational and experimental methods to investigate causal relationships among gossip and resource allocation. We look at how gossip impacts participants’ tendencies to allocate resources, and then at how competition over resources impacts participants’ tendencies to transmit gossip. We found clear evidence that gossip intensifies when there is competition for resources, and that gossip alters reputations, thereby impacting the receipt of benefits. We show that gossip relevance and valence impact how participants allocate resources. When participants themselves are competing over resources, the nature of the gossip they transmit is impacted by the value and scarcity of the contested resources.

Free Computer & Smartphone Tutoring for Adults. One on One sessions available.

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Roll into the Exploreum and celebrate the Mardi Gras season with our Krewe of Young Explorers Mardi Gras ball. From colorful science experiments, exciting music and dancing to Mardi Gras throws galore, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss. Located in the heart of Downtown Mobile, the Mardi Gras ball revelers will be in the perfect spot to catch the parade to roll right by our building!

We will have VIP stroller/cart parking in our Courtyard for families that wish to partake in the Mardi Gras fun starting with the Floral Parade at 12pm.

The party is from 9:00am to 2:00pm on February 14th, 2026. There will be thrilling STEAM experiments and activities all throughout the building, as well as traditional Mardi Gras festivities including mask making, enjoying delicious treats, and parading around the Exploreum!

We will have a special showing of Disney’s Princess and the Frog in our PCI Digital Dome Theater at 10:00am. Seats are first come first served for the film.
Space is limited so reserve your spot now!

*Admission is $12 for non-members and free for members. *

*Members will still need to reserve a spot in the theater if wanting to watch the movie*

Free Computer & Smartphone Tutoring for Adults. One on One sessions available.

Celebrate love with a sweet and savory four-course meal! Vino, Birmingham’s premier Italian-Mediterranean restaurant, invites guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic prix-fixe menu Saturday, Feb. 14. Curated by Owner Al Rabiee, the special menu will feature a four-course menu including canapes, starters, a selection of main courses and dessert - all available dine-in or to-go for $79 per person. Specialty Valentine’s Day cocktails will be available in addition to the menu for $12 each.
Along with the dinner, guests will receive a complimentary rose and white chocolate-covered, moscato-infused strawberries. Each main course item also features a suggested wine pairing available for additional purchase. Vino’s regular menu will be available upon request. To accommodate guests seated on the patio, Vino will provide high-powered heaters, furnaces, a firepit and blankets upon request. Reservations are encouraged. Guests can visit vinobirmingham.com or call (205) 870-8404 to make their reservations or place a to-go order.

North America’s largest award-winning interactive true crime murder mystery dinner show invites you into a night of laughter, mystery, and audience-driven intrigue. Enjoy a full dinner while a hilarious crime unfolds around you—but stay alert. The culprit is hiding in plain sight, and before the night is over, you could find yourself named a Prime Suspect.

Now playing at Marriott Birmingham in Birmingham, AL, this murder mystery dinner experience is unlike traditional dinner theater. Our professional actors are not in costume and are secretly planted among the guests, creating a modern, social, and highly interactive evening. Each ticket includes our signature live murder mystery show, a complete dinner, waitstaff gratuity, and plenty of unexpected twists. Reserve your tickets now and crack the case before it’s too late.

Planning a group celebration or private event in Birmingham? We specialize in custom private shows for companies, parties, and organizations of nearly any size—hosted at our public venue or brought directly to your location. Perfect for team outings, corporate events, and unforgettable celebrations.

Happens on the following Dates:
Feb 14, 2026, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & Canada)
Feb 28, 2026, 6:00pm to 9:00pm Timezone: Central Time (US & Canada)

Free Computer & Smartphone Tutoring for Adults. One on One sessions available.