Good morning, Huntsville.

Officials report that Decatur's largest-ever rec center is on schedule and under budget—its September opening promises a new community space for local residents—and marks a major $52M investment.

Families gathered yesterday at Big Spring Park for Light Up the Night to mark summer's end — the event offered fun activities and festive community spirit.

About 1,600 educators gathered from 31 campuses for a districtwide professional learning day ahead of the new school year on Jul.

31 + they reviewed plans for the coming academic term.

Local experts Kelly Goff and Dr. Autumn Truss at The Riley Center advise parents to begin early conversations about hidden disabilities so children with ADHD or dyslexia can receive proper support.

They emphasize that partnering with schools makes a significant difference in aiding development.

Madison Elementary School canceled its planned Christian athletes club after a local group complained that the program would promote religious indoctrination (letters sent in mid-May indicated school endorsement).

The school confirmed it has not implemented the club.

WAAY's Jada White checked out how much parents spent on a school supply list (Jul.

31) to show local families what they might expect when shopping for back-to-school items.

Drake State will host free hair and nail services on Monday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. to help students get ready for the start of school.

Madison County school leaders held their annual IGNITE training on Jul.

31 as they prepared for school to start on Aug. 5. The event focused on sharing key updates and planning for the new academic year.

Athens High School held Freshman Camp on Friday to welcome its incoming Class of 2030 ahead of the new school year.

The event gave students a chance to acclimate to campus life before classes began.

Madison County Sheriff's Office advised drivers on July 31 to slow down, allow extra travel time, and always stop when school bus signals flash (ensuring safety for local students).

After 28 years of service, Huntsville-Madison County 911's top tech leader retired Friday, Jul.

31, leaving a legacy in local emergency response—his departure marks the end of an era of technical leadership.

Trinity man Huynh, a Huntsville resident and survivor of Russian captivity, has experienced complete kidney failure and required daily dialysis while being hospitalized in the ICU four times in the past year.

A new housing report shows that over 2,700 homes remain vacant in Huntsville even as builders plan to add about 2,000 new construction units this year — many remain unsold with a median price near $350,000.

T. Murph Stand-Up Comedy Show

6-9 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — Tickets from $27.02 — Experience the high-energy storytelling of Chicago's own T. Murph in an unforgettable comedic performance.

Zach Rushing: The Redneck Logic Tour

7-10 p.m. — Huntsville Levity Live — Special Event — Experience the humor and heart of Zach Rushing, a Mississippi comic bringing his unapologetic style to the stage.

First Fridays Summer Edition | August

6-9 p.m. — AC Hotel Huntsville Downtown — Happy Hour Cocktails and Appetizers — Enjoy great music and good vibes while connecting with cool people in a lively atmosphere.