Good morning, Huntsville.

Melissa Thompson, guest columnist for View from the Top, explained that generous donations have built hospitals, libraries and cultural centers and will continue to shape Huntsville’s future—each legacy gift is seen as a vital part of the city’s growth.

With Giving Tuesday coming tomorrow, the column urges donors to keep the spirit of generosity alive in future community projects.

Today, construction starts on two new roundabouts along McKee Road—Jeff, McKee and Will Raby Roads will be closed for about five months to meet ARPA funding deadlines, with detour routes available along Jim McLemore Road, Hwy 53, Old Railroad Bed Road, Toney Road, Pulaski Pike, Bo Howard Road and Wall Triana Highway.

Huntsville Hospital’s $150 million Madison Street Tower expansion topped out on Nov.

19 and will add 120 beds, two new intensive care units and an improved emergency vehicle entrance, with the five-story 154,000-square-foot project finishing in 2027—raising the total bed count from 881 to 931.

The University of Florida announced today that Huntsville's Jon Sumrall (the 31st head coach) will lead the Gators after Tulane’s season ends on December 5.

Sumrall brings a proven record from his time at Troy and Tulane and is set to build a competitive program with strong recruiting ties.

Local Tiger fans reacted to Auburn hiring new head coach Alex Golesh—longtime supporter Derrick Garrison urged the team to let him stay longer to boost offense after an Iron Bowl loss.

Alabama fans celebrated their win and remain confident in beating Auburn in the SEC title game—intensifying the rivalry as the season moves forward.

The University of Florida is finalizing a six-year deal to hire Huntsville native Jon Sumrall as head football coach with an average pay of nearly $7.5 million per year—plus incentives tied to playoff performance.

Sumrall, who led Troy to two Sun Belt titles and earned Coach of the Year honors before joining Tulane, has deep local ties from his days at Grissom.

Trail Care: Harvest Square

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Harvest Square Nature Preserve — Volunteer opportunity — Help maintain the trails with no experience required and enjoy the great outdoors.

Pancakes with the Grinch at the North Pole

9 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Huntsville — $10+ — Enjoy a festive breakfast banquet and games with the Grinch in a magical holiday atmosphere.

Huntsville Havoc vs. Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs

5-6:30 p.m. — Propst Arena — Streaming available — Watch the Havoc take on the Rail Yard Dawgs in an exciting hockey matchup.

Holiday Magic 2025

6 p.m. — Burritt on the Mountain — $150 per person — Experience an enchanting holiday dinner with gourmet meals and festive performances at the historic site.

Phat Sammy's Phusion Comedy Open Mic

9-11 p.m. — Phat Sammy's — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter with local comedians hosted by Branden Willis and Alex Zee.

Bollywood Dance Class

6:15-7:15 p.m. — Saturn Jive Dance Space — $15, $10 for students — Experience the vibrant and energetic world of Bollywood dance combining traditional and modern styles.

Laser Holidays at Campus 805

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Campus 805 — $10 — Experience a dazzling holiday laser show accompanied by festive music and stunning visuals.

An Evening with Peter Billingsley & A Christmas Story

6:30-8 p.m. — Mars Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Relive the holiday classic 'A Christmas Story' with Ralphie himself, Peter Billingsley, in an interactive celebration.

Shucked Musical Performance

7-7:30 p.m. — Mark C. Smith Concert Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious Tony Award-winning musical comedy that celebrates all things corn with a side of laughs.

Jingle Jazz Tour - Huntsville 2025

6-10 p.m. — Huntsville Botanical Garden — $60+ — Experience a magical holiday evening filled with smooth jazz and soulful performances by renowned artists.