Good morning, Tuscaloosa.

The Tuscaloosa Tennis Center (Alberta) will add three extra hard courts from a $1.2 million posthumous gift by late Emily Baker, as part of $11 million renovations that include new courts, restrooms and other amenities; the expansion will enhance local tennis for future generations.

Bama Dining and UA carpenters prepare elaborate gingerbread replicas of campus landmarks at Lakeside Dining, including Denny Chimes (over 6 feet tall) and the President’s Mansion.

The display brings holiday cheer and marks a creative tradition as the semester wraps up.

The Alabama Public Service Commission approved Alabama Power’s two-year freeze on select electricity rates on Dec.

3—keeping bills steady for Tuscaloosa families amid rising costs. Advocates welcomed the move but say it falls short of further affordability relief.

The Alabama Crimson Tide signed five-star safety Jireh Edwards on Early Signing Day.

The 6-foot-2, 205-pound recruit from St. Frances Academy (Upper Marlboro) committed on July 5, 2025 and is ranked as Maryland’s top safety in the 2026 class.

Four-star quarterback Jett Thomalla signed with Alabama on Early Signing Day on December 3 after committing on June 17, 2025.

The Nebraska native visited Tuscaloosa three times, including Oct. 17 during the Volunteers game, and is rated as the No. 1 player in his state.

Cederian Morgan signed with Alabama Football on Wednesday during Early National Signing Day; the top in-state wide receiver—rated top prospect—posted 82 receptions, 1,400 yards, and 16 touchdowns in his senior season after making 12 visits to Tuscaloosa.

Jackson native EJ Crowell signed with Alabama Football on Wednesday and will compete in Jackson High School's 4A state championship game this Friday at 11:00 a.m. He is a five-star recruit + he offers strong running and pass-catching skills.

Five-star linebacker Xavier Griffin committed to Alabama on June 29 by signing his letter of intent, making him the highest-rated prospect in the Crimson Tide’s 2026 class; the 6-foot-3, 205-pound edge rusher from Gainesville High will join the team for upcoming seasons.

Alabama Crimson Tide will face Georgia in the SEC Championship today at 3 p.m. CT at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta as they aim to reclaim the conference title after their last appearance in 2023.

Alabama Football signed Jackson native EJ Crowell, a five-star running back, on Wednesday and he will play in the AHSAA 4A State Championship game for Jackson High School on Friday at 11:00 a.m. CT; he is rated as the top in-state prospect for the 2026 recruiting class.

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.

Holidays on the Plaza 2025-2026

11 AM – 3 PM — Hotel Indigo Tuscaloosa Downtown by IHG — Free entry — Experience festive fun with a seasonal ice skating rink suitable for all ages.

Jackson Chase: New Year's Eve Celebration

9 PM – 1 AM — Roll Call — Cost not specified — Celebrate the New Year with live music from Tuscaloosa's own Jackson Chase.

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.