December 2023 e-newsletter for Council Member Devyn Keith
December 2023 e-newsletter for Council Member Devyn Keith
From the desk of Council Member Devyn S. Keith, District 1
A graphic that says
Warm Holiday Greetings
With the holiday season in full swing, I am grateful for the incredible community that defines District 1. Over the past year, your love, support and prayers have been a source of strength, fostering unity and understanding among us all.
Through challenges and successes, this community rallies together with unwavering support. Your engagement is also a source of inspiration, and I’m always heartened to see so many of you at town hall events to hear what’s happening and share your concerns.
My wish for you and yours is that you embrace the joy of the holiday season and those time-honored traditions we hold dear. Speaking of traditions, here are some of my favorites:
  • Favorite holiday food(s): Fruitcake 
  • Favorite holiday song: “Christmas Time” by DMX
  • Favorite holiday movie: “The Preacher’s Wife”
  • Favorite holiday tradition: Looking at Christmas lights in District 1 and throughout the City
  • The best thing about celebrating the holidays in Huntsville is: Being with family and friends
Looking ahead to 2024, I am eager to continue representing the best district in Huntsville. Together, let's build on the foundations of collaboration and goodwill, ensuring that the coming year is filled with success and prosperity for us all.
Devyn Keith
A graphic featuring Christmas lights, a QR code and the Huntsville logo
Deck the District
Does your light display make your power meter spin? Do your neighbors have to close their blinds and shield their eyes?
If you answered “yes” to either of those questions, sign up now to participate in the inaugural Deck the District Holiday Light Contest. The challenge is only open to District 1 residents, with prizes awarded to the top three winners.
Entering is easy! Fill out the online registration form and include photos of your property all decked out in holiday splendor – nighttime photos work best.
The deadline to register is Dec. 14, and entries will be judged Dec. 15-18. Council Member Keith will announce the winners at the Dec. 21 City Council meeting. May the brightest house win!
More Details
A copy of The Wall Street Journal featuring a photo of the Alabama A&M Marching Band
Making History
There was an enormous sense of District 1 pride watching the Alabama A&M Maroon and White Band and Dancin’ Divas lead the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. You could almost feel the smiles across North Huntsville as “The Showband of the South” rose to the occasion and put on a headline-making performance for the ages. If you know anyone in the band, be sure you tell them, “Well done!”
Two women talk next to the Edmonton Heights sign while the historic marker is the in the foreground.
Celebrating Edmonton Heights
Growth is happening all over Huntsville, and with growth comes new single-family housing communities. However, it’s important we continue to recognize older neighborhoods like Edmonton Heights. 
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021, a new marker explains the neighborhood was home to a broad spectrum of African Americans, from teachers and nurses to brick masons, cab drivers and a prominent pastor. Thanks to those who worked behind the scenes to have the neighborhood added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Learn More
Councilman Keith stands next to a coach for the Mae Jemison Junior Jaguars on the Council dais. The team is lined up the left.
Team Spirit
The Mae Jemison Junior Jaguar Team and Coach Danny Calvert were recognized at the Nov. 16 Council meeting for their championship title. These young athletes worked together as a team to accomplish a goal and are a great example to us all. Go team!
A young girl catches snowflakes on the tip of her tongue. She's wearing a wool cap and pink scarf.
Beat the Winter Blues
Looking for a something to do on those cold dreary days? If you’ve never checked out any of the City's Parks & Recreation facilities and programs, it’s a great time to start! The 2023 Winter Program Guide is filled with more than 100 activities for residents of all ages, from athletics to arts and crafts. Best of all – most are free to the public.
See the Guide
COMING UP
Dec: 7: City Council Meeting, City Hall, 1st Floor Chambers, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 14: Deck the District Holiday Light Contest Deadline

Dec. 21: City Council Meeting, City Hall, 1st Floor Chambers, 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 25: Municipal Offices Closed for Christmas

Jan. 1: Municipal Offices Closed for New Year’s Day

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