Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

The U.S. Department of Labor reported that initial unemployment filings in Alabama increased from 1,970 to 2,049 last week while total claims fell by 6,000, and it noted that Arkansas experienced the largest percentage rise and the Virgin Islands saw the biggest drop — the report outlines weekly job trends.

Tuscaloosa County will host its first celebration of American history and freedom next week at the new Synergic Center near Kentuck Park in Northport—county officials say visitors can explore Heritage Hall and Freedom Hall with interactive digital displays and enjoy cookies and cocoa. The event is set for Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

ALDOT will begin a $5.3 million resurfacing and access management project on Dec 1 on a 4.79-mile stretch of US-82 from near Echola Road to near Buhl Cut-off Road—this work is expected to improve mobility and safety until late summer while eastbound lanes stay open from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Motorists should plan for delays during the work.

The Alabama Department of Public Health reported low levels of respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV as the holiday season approached.

Officials said illness peaks usually come after holiday gatherings—residents are advised to get a flu shot even if it is a little late for full protection.

Rover's report shows Alabama pet owners chose bold yet classic pet names in 2025, with Brodie topping puppy picks and Jack leading for kittens.

The report is based on more than a million pet profiles and a survey of 1,000 pet parents—highlighting a mix of familiar and creative choices.

Major online retailers are offering Black Friday pet deals with up to 50% off on food, toys, beds and more — discounts include a free first box from The Farmer’s Dog and free monthly toys with a BarkBox subscription.

These offers began November 28 and will run through Cyber Monday, giving Tuscaloosa pet owners a chance to save.

Alabama co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach JaMarcus Shephard will take on his first head coaching role at Oregon State after the season—prompting Alabama to search for a new wide receivers coach.

The 42-year-old, who helped produce strong receiving groups at Alabama and Washington, will lead the Beavers into a revamped Pac-12.

Alabama meets Auburn today at Jordan-Hare Stadium in the Iron Bowl, with the game deciding an SEC championship spot and a possible College Football Playoff berth.

It marks the sixth straight Iron Bowl featuring a head-to-head coaching matchup (coach Kalen DeBoer for Alabama versus interim coach D.J. Durkin) as Alabama has won each of its past five meetings (upholding a strong rivalry).

Clemson Tigers at Alabama Crimson Tide Women's Basketball

1-4 p.m. — Coleman Coliseum — Tickets starting at $9 — Watch a thrilling ACC/SEC women's basketball matchup in Tuscaloosa.

SIDEPIECE Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Two Dimes — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying night with the concert of Sidepiece in Tuscaloosa.

Excerpts From The Nutcracker 2025

2-4 p.m. (Dec 6) — Druid City School of Ballet — Check event page for costs — Experience the holiday magic through enchanting excerpts from Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet, The Nutcracker.

UTSA Roadrunners vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Basketball

3:30 – 9:30 a.m. — Coleman Coliseum — Ticket prices vary — Catch the action as the Crimson Tide takes on the Roadrunners in a thrilling basketball showdown.

Holidays on the Plaza

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Hotel Indigo Tuscaloosa Downtown — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with festive activities and community cheer.

Controller

Filter of Hope is seeking a skilled Controller to manage all accounting operations and ensure financial integrity across our growing global ministry. This full-time position oversees general ledger, reporting, compliance, and supports leadership with budgeting and analysis. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, experienced in nonprofit accounting, and passionate about advancing our mission to provide clean water and share the gospel worldwide.