Village of Providence Set to Expand Residential Footprint with New Developer, Local Builders
The Village of Providence (VOP) will begin construction in June or July of this year on a new expansion of the neighborhood, Phase 13, adding 84 new housing units to one of Huntsville's most recognized mixed-use communities.
By Katie Holt - Page 5
TOURISM
Huntsville Tourism Summit Unveils Bold Vision for Outdoor Access, Lodging, and Engagment
At this year’s Annual Huntsville Tourism Summit, local leaders, tourism professionals, and national experts shared a clear message: Huntsville is transforming into a destination where natural beauty, active lifestyles, and thoughtful infrastructure come together.
By Noah Logan - Page 20
ADDITIONAL STORIES
• Bank47 Brings Concierge Banking to Downtown Huntsville By Kait Thursday • Page 2
• Markets Level as Fed Commits to Steady Policy Guidance By Marie Johnson • Page 6
• Global Tech Powerhouse Chooses Huntsville as U.S. Headquarters By Mike Easterling • Page 16
Bank47 Brings Concierge Banking to Downtown Huntsville
Bank47 officially opened its new Church Street location on May 29, offering a fresh take on personalized financial service in the city’s evolving banking landscape. Located near government offices and businesses, the downtown headquarters positions the bank as a potential hub for relationshipdriven banking in North Alabama.
“Direction, stability, and completeness (are) values we aim to bring to every financial relationship,” said Womble. “We’re here to be a steady, guiding presence for individuals, families, and businesses ready to move forward with confidence.”
By: Kait Thursday
customers, particularly business owners and families with complex financial needs, value. Bank47 aims to bridge that gap by offering a hybrid model: the ease of digital tools combined with tailored, inperson service.
Choosing to headquarter the bank in downtown Huntsville is a strategic move. Proximity to businesses and municipal buildings offers easy access for legal professionals, contractors, and other hardworking clients. It also signals a broader investment in the city’s core economic engine.
At the helm are CEO Hill Womble, President John Johnson, and EVP/CFO/COO Dana Potts, all seasoned professionals with extensive experience in commercial banking and financial management throughout Alabama and beyond. Their leadership reflects a growing trend among newer banks to prioritize personal service and community ties over sheer scale or technology alone.
Reviving Concierge-Style Banking for the Modern Era
Bank47 embraces a conciergestyle banking model built on one-on-one financial guidance—a stark contrast to the often impersonal experience of digital-only banks. This approach echoes back centuries to the Medici family of Renaissance Florence, where banking was rooted in deep, trusted relationships. In the early 1400s, Giovanni de’ Medici built his family banking empire, utilizing not only wealth management but also empowering the surrounding com-
munities by investing heavily in infrastructure, small businesses and the arts.
“Direction, stability, and completeness (are) values we aim to bring to every financial relationship,” said Womble. “We’re here to be a steady, guiding presence for individuals, families, and businesses ready to move forward with confidence.”
Like Giovanni de’ Medici, Bank47 pairs financial expertise with a mission to strengthen the communities it serves—blending traditional relationship-driven banking with modern tools.
Safeguarding Vulnerable Customers
This high-touch model also serves a protective role. With online banking fraud on the rise, primarily targeting seniors, concierge bankers can offer an extra layer of defense. According to the Federal Trade Commission, older adults lose billions each year to
scams. By building close relationships, bankers can more easily spot irregular activity, educate clients on safe practices, and intervene quickly when something seems off. Unlike online-only banks, which rely heavily on automated alerts, Bank47's staff proactively assist clients with secure transactions and scam prevention. This personal attention is especially valuable to elderly customers who may be less comfortable navigating digital systems on their own.
Locally, Huntsville has seen a surge in fraud schemes involving fake utility companies and demands for payment via prepaid gift cards or apps like Zelle. Personalized banking can offer timely warnings and help protect residents from these common tactics.
While digital-only banks have gained popularity due to their convenience, they often lack the direct human interaction many
Bank47 joins a competitive financial scene. As of 2025, Huntsville is home to more than a dozen banks and credit unions, serving a population exceeding 220,000. According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), the local banking sector has seen average deposit growth of about 5% annually over the past five years, mirroring the region’s expanding economy.
Community banks like Bank47 currently hold about 20% of Madison County’s market share. Their primary advantage? Personalized service. In contrast, national online-only banks, while growing rapidly, with a 30% increase in customer accounts since 2020, often rank lower in customer satisfaction, especially when face-to-face support is needed.
By positioning itself with concierge-style banking, Bank47 is targeting a niche market that values individualized guidance and long-term financial relationships— something larger institutions and purely digital platforms often struggle to deliver in Huntsville’s increasingly sophisticated economic environment. w
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Photos courtesy of Bank47
A Conversation with Joe Demos of State Farm
For the past 25 years, Joe Demos has helped families protect what matters most, guiding them through insurance coverage and standing with them in recovery after loss. But the former Alabama football player’s path to becoming a State Farm agent wasn’t straight like a go route.
After college, Demos turned down multiple insurance sales offers—he didn’t want a career in sales. Instead, he pursued a career in merchandising and later became a manufacturing rep. But the constant travel and lack of rewarding work left him searching for something more meaningful.
That search led him to a field claims position with State Farm, where he found purpose in helping people rebuild after difficult losses.
Later, as his family grew and an opportunity opened in his wife’s hometown of Huntsville, Joe transitioned into agency management. This is where he discovered that being
a State Farm agent wasn’t just about selling policies but about building relationships and serving people. This is where he found his calling.
Demos recently sat down with the Huntsville Business Journal to talk about his journey, the personal fulfillment of owning a business, and why helping people is at the heart of everything he does.
What do you enjoy most about being a business owner?
When you come into my office, no matter how bad your day is, we need to make it better. No matter how good your day is, we need to make it better. So people come in, and if they just walk out smiling, we've done our job. We just try to help people, and that's the best part of my day.
What is a challenge you faced as a business owner and how did you overcome it?
For me, I think the greatest challenge was simply not having the
business acumen. I knew how to work hard. I didn't know how to work smart. So most of the mistakes I made were–back to a football analogy–made going full speed. But they were still mistakes, and those really involved running the business itself, not so much the insurance. … I overcame that just by experience and trying not to make the same mistake twice.
How do you balance personal and professional life?
As far as balance, that’s a question that has to be answered minute by minute every day because if I leave the office to go do something, I have to balance. Is it worth me not being there for my customers? Is it something that I'm going to do for myself? Am I getting X number of dollars an hour worth of pleasure out of this? Or do I need to be working instead?
What is your secret to success?
I think it's keeping the mission statement in the front of everything
By:
you do, whether it's where you're spending your money in the office, who you're hiring, who you're firing, or where you're spending your time. The mission statement hasn't changed in 25 years. It's to take care of my customers and my family. w Sit Down With Success is a feature of the Huntsville Business Journal on entrepreneurs and their keys to success. To read the full story, please visit the Huntsville Business Journal website.
Heather Price /
Photo courtesy of Joe Demos
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call 256.533.8078, e-mail todd@eventhuntsville.com, or visit us on the web at www.huntsvillebusinessjournal.com For editorial information contact editor@huntsvillebusinessjournal.com
Village of Providence Set to Expand Residential Footprint with New Developer, Local Builders
The Village of Providence (VOP) will begin construction in June or July of this year on a new expansion of the neighborhood, Phase 13, adding 84 new housing units to one of Huntsville's most recognized mixed-use communities. Ford Classic Homes, based out of Middle Tennessee, is taking over as the new development company for the remaining three residential phases of the community.
Chesney Ford, Vice President, Sales, Marketing, & Design for Ford Classic Homes, shared her company’s vision and goal for the completion of VOP. Ford emphasized that these new homes will maintain the existing architectural design of the neighborhood.
“Our objective, along with the builders we're working with and bringing on, (us included), is to continue that vision, that look, that quality that people are used to and expect from the Village of Providence,” Ford said.
Phase 13 marks the beginning of the end for the long-term develop-
ment, with Ford noting that the next sections of the project, phases 14 and 15, will complete VOP.
“There's a lot of opportunity for extended growth in the next few years with these new phases,” Ford said.
“Two local builders, Built by Bryan and Black Crow Building Company, will join Ford Classic Homes in constructing homes in the new phases. While Built by Bryan has been building in VOP for quite some time (formerly under the name Jimmy
By:
“Phase 13 will be their first phase where they'll be building in the Village of Providence, but they're also well known throughout the area. They build in Huntsville locally in several other communities,” Chesney stated.
According to Ford, the new section of housing will feature a mix of single-family homes, including alleyloaded and motor court homes, as well as some townhomes. Ford also noted an increase in demand for homes in the area, with buyers looking for features like one-level living and comfortable spaces to host friends and family.
“Entertaining in the Village of Providence is a big thing for buyers. They want their inside and outside to feel like a large entertaining space,”
Chesney said.
Chesney said buyers will also have the opportunity to choose a wide range of customization options for their new home.
In addition to the neighborhood’s upcoming new housing developments, VOP’s town center retail area has seen significant growth with new businesses recently opening, further adding to the community’s popularity with residents and local visitors.
Lisa Underwood, Owner of Underwood Marketing and Events, is working closely with Ford Classic Homes to help promote these final buildouts of the community. When asked what makes VOP special, Underwood highlighted the neighborhood's community-driven atmosphere and walkability.
“The Village of Providence is based on a design principle called traditional neighborhood design, and it really promotes connectivity within the community,” Underwood said. According to the VOP's website, the master-planned community was first designed in 2001 by Duany Plater-Zyberk & Co, the same design firm responsible for the Seaside and Rosemary Beach communities at Florida's 30A.
As Ford Classic Homes and its local partners begin this final chapter, the VOP moves closer to realizing its original master-planned vision. w
Katie Holt / Photos courtesy of Village of Providence
Bryan Construction), Ford says this will be Black Crow’s first time to build in the VOP community.”
Markets Level as Fed Commits to Steady Policy Guidance
The Alabama Association of Realtors’ monthly report for April of 2024 showed month-over-month declines in home sales across Alabama—down 6.8%—and a 2.2% decrease in the median price from March, but year-over-year figures for the month of April show improvements over the course of the year. Home sales across the state showed a 10.8% year-over-year improvement, with active listings up 27%, and a 13.3% increase in the median sales price.
Moreover, construction of new inventory has continued to build up, following the disruptions of the late winter months. According to Realtor.com’s Monthly Housing Market Trend Report, there has been a 30.6% year-over-year increase in real estate inventory nationwide. While this is 16.3% lower than 2019 levels, it still marks a high in post-pandemic real estate inventory.
Here in Huntsville, the Huntsville Area Association of Realtors (HAAR) weekly report, dated for May 17, reflects these trends that we see in the statewide and national scales. New listings for single-family homes are up 6.7%, while pending sales are up 8.1%, and inventory is up 23%.
Interestingly, townhouse/condo units remained flat in both new listings and pending sales, while inventory increased 4.8%.
While Alabama more generally, and Huntsville specifically, remain sellers’ markets, this increase in inventory is helping to balance out the economic equation.
In national news, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System issued a rare public statement after Chair Jerome Powell met with President Trump to discuss issues pertaining to “economic developments including for growth, employment, and inflation.”
The meeting comes after months of sustained criticism of Powell by Trump over the Federal Reserve’s continued refusal to cut interest rates
due to concerns about inflation. In a statement given at a conference on May 15, Powell noted that inflation “could be more volatile going forward than in the inter-crisis period of the 2010s," and that, barring a recession, a return to near-zero long-term interest rates is very unlikely.
Donald Trump has repeatedly castigated Powell, in his own particular idiom, and has signaled a desire to fire him in the past. While a Federal judge recently upheld Trump’s firing of officials from the National Labor Relations Board, marking a potential precedent, Trump has been reluctant to go through with firing Powell for two reasons.
Firstly, as Chair, Powell is merely one of a dozen voting members of the Board of the Federal Reserve, and its spokesperson. Firing and replacing him would not actually result in an about-face for Federal Reserve policy. Trump would need to dismiss the lot, and that would bring about the second factor causing him to hesitate—firing the Board of the Federal Reserve and replacing them with those willing to cut interest rates on his say-so would mark an end to the apolitical Federal Reserve, and prove disastrous to the economy.
In 2021, Turkish President Recep Erdogan forced Turkey’s central bank to cut interest rates despite
tion’s prosperity.
By: Marie Johnson
high inflation. This proceeded to utterly tank Turkey’s currency, the lira, and the whole affair is a textbook example of why an apolitical central bank is a critical safeguard to a na-
As the American dollar is the world’s reserve currency, threatening the neutrality of the Federal Reserve becomes a global concern, and international investors in the bond market are not above using it as a stick to keep American economic turmoil to a dull roar.
The Board of the Federal Reserve reiterated their commitment to apolitical economic policy based around empirical market dating, stating:
“Chair Powell said that he and his colleagues on the FOMC will set monetary policy, as required by law, to support maximum employment and stable prices and will make those decisions based solely on careful, objective, and non-political analysis.”
The Huntsville Business Journal will continue to monitor developments in the market nationally, statewide, and here at home. w
Matt Curtis Real Estate: Partnering with Clients to Build Homes and Hope
By: Matt Curtis / Photo courtesy of Matt Curtis
At Matt Curtis Real Estate, we believe “to whom much is given, much is expected.” Giving back is one of our core values, and we’re honored to live that out—every day—with the help of our clients.
Our mission is clear: “MC exists to honor God in all that we do. We strive to make a life-changing impact on the world, our community, our clients, and our team every day.”
That mission comes to life through our Love Thy Neighbor project—our commitment to build 1,000 homes for families in Central America. For every 100 homes we help buy or sell across North Alabama, we fund the construction of one home abroad.
Thanks to the continued support of our clients, we’ve built 148 homes so far through partnerships with Casa por Cristo and Habitat for Humanity. This September, I’ll travel to Guatemala to visit families who recently received new homes and join our team for the next build. These trips are a humbling reminder of how transformative a safe home can be.
Our giving also extends to our own backyard. With more than $1
million donated across all causes, we’re proud to support local organizations like Kids to Love. This includes funding the Curtis Cares Center and a dedicated cottage at Davidson Farms, providing stability and hope for our local kids and foster care community.
We’re deeply thankful for every family who partners with us. Each home sold not only marks a new beginning for our clients—it also helps rewrite the future for a child in our community and a family across the world.
To learn more about the Love Thy Neighbor project and how your home journey can make a difference, visit: MattCurtisRealEstate.com/love-thy-neighbor.php. w
Matt Curtis of Matt Curtis Real Estate
ROCKET CITY REWIND
The Story of Albert Russel Erskine, Sr.
Albert Russel Erskine Sr., born in 1871 into a family with Dutch roots that settled in Huntsville around the turn of the 19th century, made his mark before committing suicide in 1933 under intense financial stress. Before he left his troubles behind, he was regarded as one of the nation’s most prominent industrial magnates of his time, according to authors George Dickerson and Henry S. Marks who in 1974 penned “Albert Russel Erskine, The Huntsville ‘Boy Who Made Good.’ ’’
Erskine wound up living in South Bend, Ind., where he was a noteworthy figure who played a key role in civic matters when he was top man at the renowned Studebaker factory. Erskine left school at the age of 15, but became a captain of industry and left an indelible imprint:
• President, Studebaker Corporation (1919-1933)
• Treasurer and executive board member, Studebaker (19151919)
He held other positions during his time with the automaker:
• Vice President and Director, Underwood Typewriter Company
• Treasurer and board member, Yale and Towne Manufacturing Company
• Director, Federal Reserve Bank, Chicago
• President, Pierce Arrow Company
• President, S.P.A. Trucking Trucking Corporation
• Vice President and Director, National Automobile Chamber of Commerce
• President of the Board of Trust-
ees, University of Notre Dame
• Director of a large South Bend bank
• Wrote “History of the Studebaker Corporation’’ in 1918 following the death of the firm’s last founders
• An avid sports fan and noted golfer, he initiated the Albert Russel Erskine Award for the top college football team
His legacy in Huntsville and South Bend remains to this day.
There’s the Hotel Russel Erskine downtown built between 1928 and 1930, which was once the center of local social activity. The group that built the hotel, now a run-down apartment complex, turned to one of Huntsville’s favorite sons when money ran short.
The hotel was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.
There’s his family mausoleum he had built at Maple Hill Cemetery, elevated on a slight rise at the end of the road at the main entrance that’s adorned with a memorial gateway Erskine donated in honor of his deceased mother.
His pioneering ancestors were practically earlyAmerican royalty.
A maternal greatgrandfather, Albert Russel, was a colonel in Washington’s army during the Revolutionary War and was among the first settlers in Huntsville, originally known as Twickenham. His
grandfather Dr. Alexander Erskine served as a physician in the Confederate army during the Civil War.
Clearview Cancer Institute, which sits on a tract known as Russel Hill across from the old Butler High School and is now home to The Rock Worship Center, was given a family name when Erskine’s ancestors settled there on what was then land outside the city limits.
At the time, according to Dex Nilsson in his story “Why is it named that?’’ those limits stretched all of a quarter mile in each direction from the public square.
He donated land for South Bend’s first 18-hole public golf course, Erskine Hills. It remains open today under the name Erskine Park Golf Course and the subdivision he built a mansion on is called Erskine Manor.
Business Savant
Erskine’s meteoric rise in the business world was retraced in The Boy Who Made Good:
• Left school at the age of 15 and took a job as an office boy in a Huntsville railroad office, rose to the position of chief bookkeeper.
• At 27, moved to St. Louis for a position as chief clerk with the American Cotton Company and later became general auditor of the company’s operating department with responsibility for 300 cotton gins throughout the South.
• Joined Studebaker in 1911 and became president in 1915 and, in a footnote at findagrave.com, he “literally guided the Studebaker company from the ‘horse and buggy’ days into the position of a major player in modern auto production."
In South Bend, Studebaker built the Erskine Six, which debuted in Paris where it was thought a market for smaller cars would be a hit, and later the Rockne, another compact six-cylinder that Erskine named after the fabled Notre Dame football coach. Neither car succeeded.
Meanwhile, as the Wall Street crash of 1929 led to the Great Depres-
sion, Erskine failed to reduce operating costs and eventually inflated numbers of dividends the company was paying out. It all led to insurmountable debts for the company, which eventually went into receivership in 1933.
Erskine was forced out. The former wunderkind was also dogged by personal debt and had a heart condition that forced him to give up golf. The combination of his health and financial problems professionally and personally put Erskine under excruciating stress.
Albert Russel Erskine forged his name into American history as an industrial icon who was famous nationwide. He made most of his fortune in the North but, as the saying goes, you can take the boy out of the South but you can’t take the South out of the boy.
The Indiana mansion Erskine built in 1921 was named Twyckingham, possibly a twist on Huntsville’s original name and the place where he died from a self-inflicted gunshot on July 1, 1933.
In one of his suicide notes, which included burial instructions at Maple Hill, Erskine wrote these lines to his son as shared by the South Bend Tribune the following day:
“Nervous system shattered…can not go on.’’ w
The Erskine residence on Jefferson Street in Huntsville (Mike Easterling)
Harvey S. Firestone, founder of the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, and Albert Russel Erskine, president of the Studebaker Corporation. (Special Sections/Huntsville-Madison County Public Library)
Albert Russel Erskine (Special Sections/ Huntsville-Madison County Public Library)
By: Mike Easterling /
Photos by Mike Easterling and the Special Sections/ Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Madison Honors Top Employees During City Council Meeting
The start of a torrential downpour momentarily stole the attention of people gathered for the regular meeting of the Madison City Council, but business at hand soon commenced and demanded full attention.
Leading the agenda was a presentation honoring Employee of the Year Roger Bellamy, Police Officer of the Year Josh Collins and Firefighter of the Year Captain Ryan Ledford.
Debbie Overcash, Rotary Club member and chair of the Employee of the Year committee, emceed the ceremony. Members of the Rotary Club of Madison—Al Sulligent and President Bill Holtzclaw-–-joined Mayor Paul Finley and Council President John Seifert in welcoming the winners to accept their plaques.
“This is the 24th year the Rotary Club of Madison, in cooperation with the City of Madison, has had the privilege of recognizing outstanding citizens in public service,’’ Overcash said. “These fine employees have been chosen by their supervisors for this very well-deserved recognition.
“Our appreciation features a plaque for each individual, inclusion in a perpetual plaque here at city hall, a monetary gift from the Rotary Club of Madison, along with our entire city’s gratitude for a job well done.’’
“Ryan always has a calm demeanor, a positive attitude and is always working with other members to ensure they are well-trained,’’ Madison Fire and Rescue Chief Brandy Wil-
liams said. “I expect big things from Ryan and look forward to him moving forward in our department.’’
Ledford, who comes from a family of firefighters, deflected praise.
“I just appreciate the team,’’ he told the Huntsville Business Journal during a break in the council meeting for a celebration with cake.
“I’ve had a lot of strong mentors that led me to where I am to get this award. The guys I work with were very important.’’
Collins is a member of special operations as part of the police department's training division. He has attended various job-related events, including Instructive Development and Pepper Ball Gun Instruction, a less lethal form of suppression. He was also instrumental in streamlining the department’s hiring process.
award on behalf of Collins, who was away on vacation.
“Officer Collins has been an invaluable member of the training division,’’ Gandy said. “His efforts have really enhanced the size of our staffing levels, and skills and abilities of our officers. He is an invaluable asset to this agency.’’
Bellomy joined the city’s staff in 1995 and became Director of Finance in 2012. In 2013 when a ½ cent sales tax was
By: Mike Easterling /
Madison Police Chief Johnny Gandy accepted the
approved, instead of putting that money into the general fund he created a three-fund approach—capital purchases, neighborhood streets and debt services.
That move, along with the creation of Fund 38, which spawned 24 current projects, has moved Madison forward economically.
“Roger was a major contributor when our management team defined a mission statement that we still have today,’’ Finley said. “Under his leadership we maximized value with our community’s money. On a personal note, I love Roger’s heart, his passion for our community’s success and his willingness to speak his mind. Good things happened to Madison when Roger was involved.’’
Bellomy is retiring in October.
“I appreciate (the award), I really do,’’ he said. “It means the city is thinking about me.’’ w
Madison Firefighter of the Year, Ryan Ledford and his daughter, 9-year old Maralee
Photos by Mike Easterling
Huntsville Natives Lighting Up Hometown with ‘Huntsville Glow’
If you’ve noticed the extra glow at events throughout Huntsville and surrounding areas, you’ve probably seen Huntsville Glow in action! When Huntsville-native Sharon Carter attended her nephew’s high school graduation in Brentwood, Tenn. in 2021, a business idea was born. As she watched the ceremony unfold on the high school football field, she noticed a set of glowing “2021” numbers, and something clicked. A long line of families eager to pose with the illuminated display made her think: Why doesn’t Huntsville have something like this?
Carter pitched the idea to her longtime friend Brandi Russell to do something similar in Huntsville. Both women were in similar stages of life, raising children and looking for a creative, flexible business opportunity that wouldn’t demand the full-time grind of corporate work.
Brandi was in, and with the help of their husbands, the duo engineered and built their own inventory of large illuminated letters. Sharon’s husband, Landon, designed the letters while Brandi’s husband, Doug, welded metal stands for each one and added aluminum wrapping and lighting.
Fast forward to today, and the two are founders and co-owners of Huntsville Glow, providing custom-built illuminated letters, numbers, and symbols for events across North Alabama. They’ve been part of events of all shapes and sizes over the past four years–weddings, corporate galas, festivals, school events, anniversary and birthday parties, and more. Huntsville Glow has become a familiar and eye-catching feature at area events.
While Huntsville Glow started
with just numbers and letters, four years later, their inventory now includes creative symbols like hearts, hashtags, question marks, and even exclamation points! They have more than 115 handcrafted letters, numbers, and symbols, all made in-house using durable plywood and aluminum finishes. Their letters and numbers are all 4 feet tall, which makes a huge visual impact and sets them apart from the competition.
Their first gig was a 50th wedding anniversary in 2021. Their first corporate event was for Boeing. The aerospace giant needed the word “CARNIVAL” for a conference at the Von Braun Center, and the Huntsville Glow team worked tirelessly to create an entire new set of letters.
“We had nothing but a five and a zero,” Carter laughed. “But we said yes anyway with just four days to make CARNIVAL.”
Hustle and hard work has been central to Huntsville Glow’s growth. Just like anything else, Carter said, you have to put in the effort.
“We’ve learned to put on our entrepreneur glasses,” Carter explained. “In addition to regular online searches, we keep an eye out every time we're out and about. For example, when we’re driving around town and see bill-
boards advertising an event that's happening, we make a mental note to look into that and contact them to see if they’re interested in working with us. We now also listen to the radio commercials when we used to turn off them immediately, like everybody else does. We’re listening out for local events such as grand openings, concerts, etc. We’re just really focused on continually looking for opportunities. We’ve gotten a number of jobs just by making contact with the event planners.”
Social media has also played a huge role in the popularity of the business. Carter manages the company’s Instagram and Facebook accounts, constantly updating with new photos and reminding every-
one of Huntsville Glow’s service. “It’s all about continual visibility,” she said, “and remembering that no one will work harder to promote our business than we will. It’s a critical part of the job.”
The team handles everything from setup to takedown, making it easy for customers to focus on other event details. “All we need from them is to show us where to set everything up,” Carter said. “Our goal is to make it seamless for the customer.”
Huntsville Glow letters and numbers look great both indoor and outdoors, but of course outdoor events come with unique challenges such as wind. A few years ago, during the Downtown Rescue Mission’s annual Glow Run 5K, it was so windy they had to design a special system in real time to ensure extra stability, keeping safety always as their number one priority.
Even as competitors enter the Huntsville market, Carter believes Huntsville Glow stands apart. “We’re a homegrown company that started from absolute ground zero. We hustle and don’t wait for potential clients to find us—we do our homework and often find them!,” she said.
While Carter never imagined herself as a salesperson, she’s embraced the challenge.
“I’ve learned that when it's
By: Heather Price / Photos courtesy of Huntsville Glow
something I care about, I'm not shy about promoting it. I stopped at Maple Street Biscuit Company in Clift Farms a couple of years ago. Their grand opening was the next day, and I said, ‘Hey we could help make this really special!’ and we ended up setting up the word ‘BISCUITS’ for them. It looked so cute and definitely helped draw attention.”
Another thing Carter has learned is how to handle rejection when an event organizer says no. “Sometimes they’re just going in a different direction,” she said, “and that's okay. You just keep going.”
Carter said she thinks the illuminated displays are so popular because they are unique and different from traditional event decorations. The letters are also versatile, perfect to use at both daytime or evening events for added elegance, fun, and beautiful photo ops for guests.
They recently displayed a last
name at a wedding and the mother of the bride said it made the whole event! “Everyone was talking about it, and everyone wanted their picture with it. It just added to the elegance of the evening.”
But on the flip side, their letters add so much fun for more casual events. For example, people loved getting their pictures next to ‘We Heart Chicken’ at Chick-fil-A in Clift Farms. They’ve also partnered with Chick-Fil-A the last two years to provide a great photo op for the community’s graduating seniors.
Huntsville Glow is the story of how hard work, creativity, and determination pay off. The team looks forward to continuing to grow the business and hopes to someday expand to offer franchises to entrepreneurs in other cities. They now have everything needed to help others get started, including hundreds of photos to share as examples on social media. Carter said someday there could even be a Chattanooga Glow or Birmingham Glow.
To get a quote on adding some extra glow at your next event, contact Huntsville Glow on their website https://www.huntsvilleglow. com/, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hsvglow/ or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HuntsvilleGLOW/. w
Huntsville is no stranger to federal twists and turns. From Saturn V to today’s Artemis missions, the city has long weathered Washington’s ups and downs while steadily expanding its aerospace, defense, and tech footprint. Now, as the Senate weighs amendments to the “Big Beautiful Bill” (H.R. 1), local business owners are rightly asking how Sen. Ted Cruz’s proposed spending changes—especially a larger NASA budget—might affect jobs, contracts, and day-to-day stability.
Below is a measured look at what’s in the amendment package, why the numbers still raise caution flags, and—importantly—why layoffs at Redstone Arsenal, Marshall Space Flight Center, or the broader contractor community are unlikely in the near term.
A Quick Recap: Cruz’s Amendment and the Huntsville Connection
• Sen. Cruz’s headline proposal shifts roughly $10 billion to NASA programs to keep U.S. space leadership strong. For Huntsville, that could mean new work on Artemis propulsion, lunar-lander testing, and small-satellite R&D—areas where Marshall and local contractors already excel.
• The amendment reallocates money inside the larger bill rather than generating new revenue. NASA’s gain must therefore fit under a widening federal debt ceiling—one reason analysts warn of long-term fiscal strain.
Why Local Companies Need Both Optimism and Prudence
1. Short-term stability looks solid. Huntsville’s current contracts are multi-year and backed by signed appropriations. Even if H.R. 1 adds to the national
Federal Windfall Breaking Down the
By: Kait Thursday / Photos
debt, existing workforce head counts at prime contractors and smaller suppliers should continue under current task orders.
2. Mid-term growth remains possible. If the NASA increase survives final negotiations, Marshall could see targeted expansion—especially in propulsion testing and lunar-habitat design. That would benefit engineering firms, materials labs, and STEM graduates seeking fresh openings.
3. But the broader math matters. The Congressional Budget
Office estimates that the full package would add roughly $2.4 trillion to primary deficits over ten years, climbing toward $3 trillion once interest is included. Sen. Cruz’s $40 billion in savings offsets only about 0.5 percent of that total. Should rates rise—or future Congresses tighten discretionary spending—even marquee programs could feel pressure. Reassurance Without Rose-Colored Glasses Huntsville has weathered major budget storms before—and emerged stronger each time. After Apollo
Three Practical Takeaways for Huntsville Businesses
Windfall or Fiscal Fog? NASA Budget Shift
Photos courtesy of NASA
Matters
rates lift borrowing costs for private and government programs alike.
cycle will show whether the bump is sustained or trimmed.
deficits can lead to across-the-board the road.
ended in the early 1970s, NASA’s nationwide workforce dropped from roughly 400,000 at its peak, including thousands at Marshall, yet Redstone Arsenal expanded missile-defense programs, and Marshall pivoted to Space Shuttle work. Federal defense and research contracts filled the gap, while local and state leaders actively courted new investment—laying the foundation for today’s diversified economy.
Sequestration in 2013 was another test. Congress enacted $85 billion in across-the-board cuts, and Alabama officials warned that up to 24,000 defense-related jobs were at risk. Huntsville firms diversified portfolios and leaned into commercial and international markets to avoid mass layoffs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, continuing resolutions and delayed budgets created uncertainty, yet the city’s unemployment rate rebounded from the national peak (15 percent) to 3.6 percent by mid-2022. More than $34 million in federal recovery funds, paired with workforce programs led by the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, kept talent employed and pipelines open.
That history makes one point
How to Prepare
Lock in near-term financing at today’s favorable rates; build cushions into multi-year bids.
Stay engaged with industry associations; provide clear, cost-effective metrics.
Diversify revenue streams—pair federal contracts with commercial or allied-nation work.
clear: even if national debt climbs, an immediate wave of local layoffs is unlikely. Ongoing programs such as the Space Launch System, hypersonic testing corridors, and missile-defense initiatives already span multiple fiscal years, and bipartisan support for space exploration remains one of Washington’s rare constants.
Yet realism is healthy. If higher debt forces tougher choices in D.C., discretionary accounts—research grants, STEM-education pipelines, and infrastructure funds—could feel the pinch first. Businesses can hedge by:
• Strengthening industry-university partnerships to secure non-federal R&D dollars
• Upskilling employees for flexibility across multiple program lines
• Advocating—politely but persistently—for predictable appropriations and responsible fiscal policy.
A Final Word
When H.R. 1 gets to the Senate, Sen. Cruz’s NASA amendment will likely get a special vote during a fast-paced session called a “votea-rama.” Under the reconciliation rules, each amendment only needs a simple majority—51 votes—to
pass, unless it breaks certain budget rules. Cruz’s NASA funding increase probably won’t break those rules, but it still has to pass a procedural check. If any senator objects under the Byrd Rule—which blocks changes unrelated to the budget or that increase the deficit beyond ten years—the amendment could be removed unless it gets 60 votes to stay. If the Senate approves the bill with the NASA boost, the House will have to vote again or work out a compromise before it becomes law.
For Huntsville, the key takeaway is clear: Cruz’s amendment could tangibly benefit Marshall and local contractors, but it remains just one piece of a much larger— and riskier—fiscal package. Huntsville’s business community need not panic, but it should stay alert. By pairing cautious financial planning with continued innovation, local companies can keep payrolls steady today while positioning themselves for whatever tomorrow’s budget debates bring. Stay informed, stay engaged, and keep building— Huntsville’s trajectory has always been upward, and with prudent strategy, it can remain that way even when Washington’s numbers don’t add up as neatly as we’d like. w
MILITARY
Space Command: Will It or Won’t It?
As an ongoing political tug-ofwar drags on between Alabama and Colorado to land the permanent Space Command headquarters, frustration grows among politicians from both states.
The decision, with Dr. Troy E. Meink’s approval by the U.S. Senate three weeks ago as the new Secretary of the Air Force, is expected any day to either move SPACECOM to Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal or keep it at its temporary home of Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs.
Alabama politicians are increasingly impatient, especially following the release of a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlighting deficiencies in facilities, communications, and personnel in Colorado.
“We’re ready,’’ he said. “We’ve got Von Braun (Complex phases) I, II, III, and what we’ve already got going on with Space Command – we’re ready.’’
“Once again, I don’t know how much more research they can possibly do,’’ Congressman Dale Strong (R, Huntsville) told the Huntsville Business Journal. “Every indicator points to Redstone Arsenal as what’s best for national security.”
Redstone Arsenal would have to add some infrastructure, something Alabama House Rep. Rex Reynolds (R, Huntsville) claims shouldn't be a concern.
“We’re ready,’’ he said. “We’ve got Von Braun (Complex phases) I, II, III, and what we’ve already got going on with Space Command –we’re ready.’’
The Von Braun Complex Phase 3 is an 840,000-square foot, sixstory administrative building on the arsenal that houses the Missile Defense Agency and U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command. The basement is occupied by Se-
cure Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) and Special Access Program Facility (SAPF) areas.
According to www.walshgroup. com, the complex also has antiterrorism/force protection measures including building stand-off distances, structural preventive collapse, blast-resistant laminated glass, lighting protection, bollards, control gates and beams.
The Air Force recommended a relocation to the Rocket City following an investigation that was completed four years ago. Then-President Donald Trump agreed and announced in 2021 that SPACECOM would move to the Tennessee Valley.
But the transition wasn’t made before Trump’s first term ended and the Biden Administration left the command in the Rocky Mountains. It’s widely believed the decision was political, kickstarting two more investigations that culminated with the GAO report.
“We’re waiting, waiting on the right decision,’’ Reynolds said. “I appreciate the way we’re doing it. We shouldn’t make a political decision. Let them make a decision on that 13-month study they did. We’re ready to go. We’ve got the space, we’ve got the manpower.’’
New construction to make the Colorado Springs facilities sustainable long-term would cost $1.5 billion as reported in 2023. Defense budget expert Todd Harrison, a senior fellow at the American En-
“The main argument for keeping it in Colorado was always that new construction would not be needed right away,’
terprise Institute, said the revelation that new construction would be required for Space Command to stay in Colorado is a blow to that state.
“The main argument for keeping it in Colorado was always that new construction would not be needed right away,’’ Harrison said. “But if that situation has changed, it certainly makes Alabama more favorable.’’
That’s not the only bad news for Colorado. According to www. military.com, Space Command had filled 1,024 of 1,379 authorized positions including 576 of 809 civilian jobs as of last October. Space Command has failed to hit the intended civilian personnel goals and has relied on contractors to supplement its workforce.
Despite the recent findings, Congressman Jeff Clark (R, Colorado Springs) insisted SPACECOM should stay put.
“Why build it in Alabama? Wouldn’t that be the question? Why move it? Why disrupt it?’’
Crank told Colorado’s KOAA News 5 on Saturday. “I don’t think this should be a decision that we say, ‘Well, it’s slightly cheaper to build it
By: Mike Easterling
here.’ Well, you got to take in all the other costs. What about the costs of relocating staff who really are qualified people?’’
Crank, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, wrote in a social media post published by www.military.com that, “The release of the GAO report is clear: Colorado Springs is the best home for U.S. Space Command’s headquarters. Continued efforts to move the headquarters only hurts our national security. Space Command is fully operational, and the Department of Defense needs to move quickly to construct a permanent HQ at Peterson Space Force Base to put the issue to bed, once and for all.’’
However, Alabama representatives stand firm arguing SPACECOM belongs in the Tennessee Valley.
“The GAO report yet again affirms that Huntsville is the best option,’’ Congressman Mike Rogers (R, Weaver), House Armed Services Committee Chair, said in a statement.
Other locations considered by the Air Force in its original review were Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M.; Offutt Air Force Base, Neb.; Patrick Air Force Base, Fla.; and Port San Antonio, Texas.
Said Strong, “(Colorado’s) buildings are separated – one building is 9 1⁄2 miles outside the military base with no force protection. I think in all these reports if you put all things together, I can’t even believe Colorado is even being evaluated. I think it’s clear who's No. 1. What I’m hoping is that the secretary of the Air Force will move forward immediately. We need to go vertical.’’
Strong stressed that the entire Alabama delegation is pulling in the same direction.
“We want to do what’s best for national security,’’ he said. “The difference between us and some of these other people wanting to do what’s best for jobs or for votes, Alabama and what I’m pushing in North Alabama is to do what’s right for national security so we can get it on with our enemies.’’ w
Huntsville Native Allison Hayhurst Returns with Award-Winning Comedy
When Allison Hayhurst, a Grissom High and University of Alabama graduate, walked on stage at the Southern Fried Film Festival on June 6, it wasn’t just to celebrate her first feature film, it was also a homecoming. Her award-winning dark comedy “And Through The Portal We Go” made its long-awaited Alabama premiere at The Theatre at Lowe Mill, closing a creative loop that began right here in Huntsville’s thriving arts community.
“The Alabama premiere was great!” Hayhurst said. “We had an amazing audience, an excellent introduction by Kelley Reischauer [co-founder of the Southern Fried Film Festival], and wonderful conversations with friends and family after the screening. It’s an honor to bring the film home and be part of such an exciting line-up of indie films.”
A genre-bending blend of time loops, cults, and dry wit, “And Through The Portal We Go” has been turning heads on the U.S. and international festival circuit. Since its debut at the 2024 Gig Harbor Film Festival, where it earned nominations for Best Feature and Best Director, and won Best Actor, it has taken home accolades including Best Narrative Feature (Fisheye Film Festival, UK), Best Fantasy Feature (Another Hole in the Head, San Francisco), and Best Acting Ensemble (Black Bear Film Festival).
Though the film has been well-received across multiple states and even the UK, screening it in Huntsville carried special weight.
“Being part of the Southern Fried
Film Festival was personally exciting,” Hayhurst said. “This community helped me discover my love of storytelling. Making the leap from shorts to our first feature is a big step and sharing that with a supportive hometown audience was just incredible.”
Hayhurst, now based in NYC, produced the film alongside her husband, Mike Hayhurst, who also wrote, directed, and edited the project. Featuring standout performances by Sarah Goeke, Joseph Lymous, and Taylor Dalton Curtis, the film follows the last three members of a cult who pass through a mysterious portal only to find themselves in an endless time loop of spiritual confusion and comical dysfunction.
While it’s undoubtedly a creative passion project, “Portal” is also an example of resourceful independent filmmaking. “We’re a nine-person cast and crew who filmed for nine days and created a feature film,” Hayhurst said. “It’s tough, with limited budgets and tight timelines. But I brought a lot of
By:
collaborating effectively.”
That entrepreneurial edge may soon benefit Huntsville even further. Hayhurst shared that she and her team are already laying the groundwork for their next feature and they hope to film it right here in the Rocket City.
“We’re currently speaking with investors,” she noted. “We’d love to shoot our next film in Huntsville. If anyone in the community is interested in joining the team, we’d love to talk.”
For those who missed the premiere, the film is still traveling the festival circuit. You can follow updates on Instagram via @eveningsquire or @ andthroughtheportalwego.
With local talent like Hayhurst making waves on the national stage and eyeing a return to film in North Alabama, the future of Huntsville’s creative economy looks bright and maybe just a little bit weird in the best way. w
Noah Logan / Photos courtesy of Allison Hayhurst
my startup experience from my tech career to the role of producer— keeping us on time, on budget, and
Allison and Mike Hayhurst
Pictured left to right: Kelley Reischauer, Mike and Allison Hayhurst
Global Tech Powerhouse Chooses Huntsville as U.S. Headquarters
Huntsville’s reputation as a leader in aerospace and military defense is well established. The city is a regional and national hub for high technology. Now, add global to the growing list.
Titomic, already with operations in Australia and New Zealand, not only opened a facility in the area as it enters the U.S. market but the company billing itself as “the world’s leading provider of kinetic fusion solutions’’ has made the Tennessee Valley home to its headquarters.
Prior to a ribbon-cutting on Monday, June 2, at the new site that once housed Pratt & Whitney off Alabama Highway 20, demonstrations at different stations around the facility introduced newcomers to Titomic’s cutting-edge cold spray system.
“It is a great milestone,’’ Dag Stromme, Executive Chair of the Board at Titomic, said. “We are now officially ready for business in the United States with the world’s best engineers, the world’s best management team, the best community leaders, our fantastic advisory board and the best place in the world for business.’’
Monday’s ceremony attracted local and area political luminaries, among them Congressman Dale Strong (R, Monrovia) and Alabama House of Representatives members Andy Whitt (R, Ardmore) and Rex Reynolds (R, Huntsville).
“Welcome to the Rocket City,’’
Strong told the gathered crowd. “I’m going to tell you right here (Titomic is) going to make a difference in our area.’’
According to the company, Titomic Kinetic Fusion™ is a groundbreaking additive manufacturing and repair technology that uses kinetic energy to fuse materials without melting them. Powders are accelerated at high velocities using a supersonic gas jet and sprayed onto a substrate, creating high-strength, corrosion-resistant components layer by layer without thermal stress or material degradation.
In other words, it's revolutionary 21st century technology wizardry
that replaces welding or traditional coating methods and promises ultrafast production, field repairs and resilient coating for mission-critical components.
Using its groundbreaking cold spray technique, Stromme claimed Titomic can produce titanium warfighting materials with less waste and repair and coat mission-critical surfaces at “a fraction of the cost than it normally would have and at a speed that is far superior to existing repair methods.’’
It’s not sci-fi stuff, it just seems like it.
Among the innovative equipment displayed:
• TFK 1000: defined as a robust industrial-scale cold spray additive manufacturing system designed for high-performance metal part production, repair and coating. Using cold spray technology, traditional lead times are reduced from months to days and even hours.
• D623: a new design that allows for an increased deposition of powder to leverage a wider array of ma-
By: Mike Easterling /
terials. It reduces time to coat surfaces and get assets (i.e. a mechanical vehicle) back into the field. It provides maximum portability enabling use in multiple environments.
• D523: another portable cold spray system engineered for precision metal repair and surface enhancement made to optimize mobility and ease of use. It’s designed for on-site use and is available in a backpack version, albeit a heavy one, that soldiers can carry into action.
Titomic was founded in 2014 in Australia. Among the company’s highlights was unveiling the world’s largest 3D metal printer in 2018. Now, the company has partnered with Auburn University and UAH to forge ahead..
“We will do great things together,’’ Stromme said.
He also tipped his hat to Huntsville’s leadership.
“In my 35 years,’’ he said, “I’ve never met a more cohesive business community than in Huntsville.’’ w
Photos by Mike Easterling
Aerospace and defense manufacturer Titomic held a ribbon-cutting to celebrate the official opening of its international headquarters in Huntsville.
Shannon Minett shows a titanium piece made in Titomic's TKF™ 1000.
An employee works with the portable D623 during a demonstration at the company's ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the official opening of Titomic's headquarters in Huntsville.
Rural Communities Lead in Clean Energy Transformation
As the clean energy transition gains momentum nationwide, rural communities are emerging as key players in building a more resilient energy future. A recent webinar hosted by the nonprofit Groundswell brought together clean energy experts and community stakeholders to explore new solar initiatives across the rural South. While the technical discussion focused on contracting specifications, the broader implications—economic, historical, and social—highlight a transformative moment for rural America.
Founded in 2009, Groundswell’s mission is to reduce energy burdens for working families and rural communities. The organization has delivered over $8 million in clean energy savings, often lowering utility bills by $400–$600 annually per household.
Echoes of the New Deal
The 1936 Rural Electrification Act (REA), a cornerstone of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, revolutionized rural life by financing electric infrastructure where private utilities would not. At the time, only 10% of rural homes had electricity; by 1950, that number exceeded 90%.
In Alabama, the impact was profound. Between 1937 and 1957, more than 215,000 rural homes were electrified. The REA not only modernized homes but also increased agricultural productivity and fostered the creation of rural electric cooperatives—many of which still operate today.
Although electricity is now nearly universal, rural communities continue to face steep energy challenges. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that rural households can spend up to 17% of their income on energy—more than three times the national average. In Alabama, persistent poverty and limited access to modern grid infrastructure compound the problem.
“We’re seeing the largest investment in rural energy infrastructure in 100 years. Rural leaders are mobilizing to bring the benefits home.”
The Groundswell Model
Groundswell and the Southeast Rural Power Coalition are leading a five-year, $156 million Solar for All initiative funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This effort will build community solar energy storage projects in eight Southeastern states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. The initiative will serve more than 17,000 low-income families.
Partnering rural cooperatives and municipal utilities, including Huntsville Utilities, receive in-kind solar energy grants for eligible customers. These partners also benefit from workforce development, better energy management, and reduced capacity charges. Groundswell assists with project planning, site
selection, and subscriber management, and is currently welcoming additional partners.
The economic impact is significant. Households in these programs typically see utility savings of 30–50%, freeing up hundreds of dollars for essentials such as food, medicine, and transportation. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, each $1 million invested in energy efficiency can generate up to 17 local jobs, reinforcing clean energy’s role as an engine of economic development.
A Strategic Investment Opportunity
For investors and business leaders, rural solar development presents a strategic opportunity. These projects benefit from lower land costs, robust federal incentives, and strong community support. Key legislation—such as the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law—offer transformative tools like direct pay tax credits, enabling access to funding without relying on traditional capital markets.
Alabama, with its legacy of rural innovation and institutions like the
Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), is well-positioned to lead this next wave of energy infrastructure. Local electric cooperatives and municipalities now have access to the tools and funding necessary to scale solar solutions and reduce energy costs that impact household budgets and regional economies alike.
Michelle Moore, CEO of Groundswell and a TVA board member, emphasized the historic nature of the moment: “We’re seeing the largest investment in rural energy infrastructure in 100 years. Rural leaders are mobilizing to bring the benefits home.”
For Alabama businesses, this represents a chance to engage in high-impact, community-centered investment. For rural families, it’s a pathway out of energy poverty. And for the state, it’s a continuation of a legacy that began with light bulbs and now extends to solar power.
The clean energy transition won’t happen overnight, but with organizations like Groundswell leading the way, a blueprint for a 21st-century rural renaissance is already in motion. w
By: Kait Thursday / Photos courtesy of Groundswell
Staff of Groundswell
Huntsville Tourism Summit Unveils Bold Vision for Outdoor Access, Lodging, and Engagement
At this year’s Annual Huntsville Tourism Summit, local leaders, tourism professionals, and national experts shared a clear message: Huntsville is transforming into a destination where natural beauty, active lifestyles, and thoughtful infrastructure come together.
From multi-use greenways to a growing hotel pipeline to a new nature discovery center in the works, the summit revealed a city poised to welcome visitors in fresh and engaging ways—so long as growth is managed with care.
Brandi Horton of the Railsto-Trails Conservancy delivered a keynote that framed outdoor recreation as a powerful economic tool. She focused on the Singing River Trail, a 200-plus mile system in development across North Alabama.
“We can’t move the beach here. But we can build trails,” Horton said. She pointed to studies estimating that even 150 miles of well-promoted trail could bring in $26 million in direct spending each year.
Much of that potential, she warned, is currently going to neighboring states like Tennessee, where trail infrastructure is already more advanced.
“We don’t have to wait for some natural wonder. We can create trailbased destinations right here, and Huntsville has all the ingredients,”
By: Noah Logan /
Horton also highlighted the need for inclusive trail access and community engagement, noting that more women and people of color are using trails. She praised Huntsville’s leadership and the Sweet Trails Alabama plan as signs that the city is headed in the right direction.
Marie Bostick, Executive Director of the Land Trust of North Alabama, introduced three major initiatives that aim to make the region’s natural spaces more accessible for residents and visitors.
• Tollgate Greenway: Developed in partnership with the city and Monte Sano State Park, this greenway will connect neighborhoods to green space and improve outdoor access.
• River to Gap Trail: An eight-mile trail that will link Blevin’s Gap
to the Tennessee River. Land acquisition is halfway complete, and one-third of the trail is already developed.
• Nature Discovery Center: A planned visitor and education facility that will showcase the region’s geology, ecosystems, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Currently in the fundraising phase, the center will offer exhibits and programs to help people engage with the outdoors.
“We want people to feel comfortable exploring,” Bostick said. “Even if you don’t go out on your own, we offer programs and activities to help you connect with the land and with others.”
These projects reflect a larger vision of tourism rooted not just in attracting visitors, but in creating meaningful experiences with the natural environment.
As Huntsville expands its outdoor amenities, the hotel sector is also undergoing change.
Samuel Motta of Smith Travel Research (STR) presented recent data showing a five percent drop in occupancy, which he said corresponds directly to a five percent increase in room supply.
“Huntsville isn’t hurting for travelers. We’re just seeing more rooms come online,
which means more competition and more choices for guests,” Motta said. “The average daily rate is still climbing, and that’s helped keep revenues up.”
Motta noted that RevPAR (revenue per available room) has dipped slightly, but that shift signals a return to pre-pandemic norms after years of market instability. Huntsville currently has six hotels under construction, adding 743 rooms. Eleven more are in final planning, with another eleven in earlier stages of development.
“Huntsville is becoming a serious player in the hospitality space,” he said. “Business and leisure travelers are both coming back strong. People want to be here. They just need the right mix of accommodation options.”
Most of the growth is happening in the midscale to upper-upscale range, responding to demand from business travelers and conference attendees. Economy and independent hotels have faced more challenges, largely due to inflation and shifts in consumer spending.
Together, the presentations from Horton, Bostick, and Motta painted a picture of a city on the edge of something significant. Huntsville is not just growing, it’s evolving.
As trail systems are built out and new lodging options come online, the next challenge will be maintaining that momentum while ensuring that visitors have every reason to stay, explore, and return. w
she added.
Photo by Noah Logan
2027 AYSO Tournament to Bring $9 Million Windfall to Huntsville
An already vibrant 2027 schedule for national sports events in Huntsville is getting crowded as 360 teams, an estimated 15-16,000 visitors and a projected $9 million addition to city business coffers will arrive for a two week summer soccer tournament that year. The dates for the tournament are June 29 - July 3, 2027.
At a press conference on a humid Friday morning, with sectional soccer tournament action serving as the backdrop, it was announced the 2027 American Youth Soccer Association (AYSO) national tournament will be played at Merrimack Park and the Loretta Spencer Sports Complex.
“Huge event,’’ Huntsville Sports Commission Executive Director Mark Russell said. “At $9,000,000, I would think that it’s one of the bigger events we’ve had. It’s the biggest soccer event we’ve held for sure.’’
The AYSO national tournament joins at least four other national events coming to the Rocket City in 2027
– the World Amateur Disc Golf Championships, National Beach Volleyball Championships, collegiate Division II National Cross Country Championships and the DII Soccer Championships for men and women.
“Over the years, Huntsville has established itself as one of the leading soccer destinations in the Southeast,’’ Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said. “Whether the strength of our local clubs, hosting the Alabama high school state cham-
pionships, or our team Huntsville City FC, our city is a known commodity in the soccer world.
He added, “Over the years, we’ve invested in building these facilities to make sure our children have the venues to chase their dreams while also creating opportunities like this to show how great our city is to all of the families coming in to compete for the championship. Those investments continue to pay dividends.’’
AYSO President Doug Ryan said when the group was looking for a site for the 2027 tournament, picking Huntsville was a “very simple decision with the city’s attractions and other amenities.” He added the tournament will be a boon for hotels, restaurants and other sites.
“Some families plan their vacation around the tournament,’’ he said.
When looking for a destination,
By: Mike Easterling /
Ryan said several factors come into play.
“The ability to support the games, and it's not just about the games,’’ he said. “What else does the community have to offer? What’s the tourism opportunities? I think NASA's got a presence here and some other events. And we try to ensure that we're being inclusive across the country and not always in the same spot.’’
He also noted that businesses interested in supporting the event are encouraged to get involved—highlighting how, at a recent national tournament, even a local laundromat offered discounts to the 800–1,000 referees who traveled from as far as California.
Any business interested in sponsoring or offering deals for the tournament can email www.director@aysoarea5c.org. The city expects to fill 8,000 hotel rooms during the championships.
“We've never had anything like this,’’ said Joel Lamp of the Huntsville/ Madison County CVB. “And we’re not done, yet.’’ w
Photo by Mike Easterling
Steelcase Foundation Grant to Bolster Education Nonprofit's Expansion into Limestone County
Free 2 Teach has received a $30,000 grant from the Steelcase Foundation to support its expansion into Limestone County. The funding will assist the organization in extending its services to teachers and staff at 20 additional schools within Athens City Schools and Limestone County Schools.
"The Steelcase Foundation proudly supports Free 2 Teach and its work in Limestone County, Alabama,” shared Trudy Ngo-Brown, a Program Officer with the Steelcase Foundation. “By expanding access to free classroom resources, Free 2 Teach helps educators build on their creativity and expertise to create meaningful, engaging learning experiences for their students without using their hard-earned salaries to do so."
In February of this year, Free 2 Teach announced its expansion into Limestone County. In the intervening months, the organization has invested $89,349.25 in supplies and resources in Limestone County with the goal of enabling teachers to provide an exceptional education to each and every child.
“This is more than enriching, this is above and beyond,” shared Mrs. Mitchell, a kindergarten teacher at Blue Springs Elementary. “I have already been three times, and the kids are always so excited to see what I bring back. They wrote thank you letters this time! There are so many supplies here that I’ve never seen before in my 28 years of teaching. Thank you so much for including us and
thank you Steelcase for your support!”
Alison Kling, Free 2 Teach CEO, shared the ways in which the Steelcase Foundation is supporting her organization to fulfill its vision.
“The Steelcase Foundation has been an incredible partner as we embark on this growth as an organization to impact and invest in Limestone County,” shared Kling. “They believe in creating the conditions where people across the communities they serve can learn and thrive. This aligns so beautifully with our vision to ensure classrooms and teachers are supported in their work to create vibrant, joyful experiences for students.”
The Steelcase Foundation was established in 1951 and focuses on investing in the communities of Kent County, Michigan and Limestone County, Alabama. w
HPD Reminds Drivers: Slow Down for Summer Safety
As summer begins, the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) is urging all drivers to be more aware and slow down – especially on city streets and in neighborhoods where more people are out walking, biking, and driving.
The Summer Slowdown campaign, running from June 9 through Aug. 12, is aimed at curbing dangerous driving habits and reducing crashes through
a combination of education and enforcement. Whether it's kids playing outside, teens getting behind the wheel for the first time, or residents simply enjoying the season, the message is simple: slow down and stay safe.
“This isn’t just about traffic enforcement - it’s about protecting lives,” Police Chief Kirk Giles said. “Summer Slowdown is part of our efforts to reduce dangerous driving, increase awareness and keep our community safe every time someone gets behind the wheel.”
Huntsville has seen 12 fatal crashes this year with speed playing a primary or contributing role in each incident. HPD officers continue to routinely observe drivers exceeding posted speed limits by extreme margins, including in residential neighborhoods.
Between January and May, HPD issued 2,625 citations and 1,641 written warnings - most involving drivers exceeding the speed limit by at least 10 miles per hour. Officers also cited three drivers for racing on the highway and 36 for reckless driving.
To combat these trends, HPD will increase patrols and enforcement in high-risk areas and residential neighborhoods where speeding complaints are most common. The department will also share education and safety reminders through social media and community events to encourage responsible driving habits.
“Enforcement alone won’t solve the problem,” Chief Giles said. “We must engage with our community to educate drivers on the real risks of speeding – from deadly crashes to the financial and legal consequences they will face.”
HPD invites residents to join the effort by following the campaign via #SummerSlowdownHSV on social media, reporting unsafe driving in their neighborhood and committing to safer speeds behind the wheel. w
Matt Curtis Real Estate Ranked #1 in Alabama for 6th Year, Rises to #57 Nationally
For the sixth consecutive year in a row, Matt Curtis Real Estate has been named the top real estate team in Alabama. The team also continues to climb the national ranks, now landing at #57 among the top 100 real estate teams in the U.S.
“This recognition is a testament to our amazing team, the trust of our clients, and the mission that drives us,” said Matt Curtis, Founder and President of Matt Curtis Real Estate. “It’s not just about the number of homes we sell—it’s about the lives we impact along the way.”
This milestone reflects a track record of excellence that includes:
• 8,000+ Homes Sold
• $2+ Billion in Total Sales
• 4,000+ 5-Star Reviews
• Five-Time Inc. 5000 Honoree
• Two-Time “Best Place to Work” Winner
But what really sets them apart is their commitment to giving back. For every 100 homes sold, the team funds the construction of a home for a family in need in Central America. So far, they’ve helped build 148 homes abroad, with the 150th expected to be completed this fall.
Closer to home, the team recently celebrated the near completion of the Curtis Cares Center in partnership with the Kids to Love Foundation, providing vital resources for local foster youth.
Curtis adds, “This is separation season. While others slow down, our team is doubling down.
We’re not just celebrating— we’re focused on winning #7.” w
BRIEFCASE
a $60 value.
The application deadline is August 6, 2025, with classes starting August 20, 2025. w
UAH Launches Charger EDGE Tuition Discount Program to Boost Graduate Education Access
The University of Alabama in Huntsville has announced the introduction of the Charger EDGE (Educational Discount for Graduate Excellence) program. The program offers a 25% tuition discount for eligible new and returning graduate students.
With more than 70 master’s degree and graduate certificate programs, UAH offers flexible scheduling options, including both on-campus and online classes, to accommodate working professionals across numerous disciplines.
“At UAH, we’re committed to empowering our students and supporting the workforce needs of our region,” said Dr. Jon Hakkila, Associate Provost of International Services and Academic Integrity, and Dean of the Graduate School at UAH. “The Charger EDGE program will help local nurses, engineers, scientists, teachers and other business professionals upskill and advance their careers by making graduate education more affordable and flexible—right here in the Tennessee Valley.”
The tuition discount applies exclusively to in-state tuition for Alabama residents and select Tennessee counties for the 2025-2026 academic year. New graduate students, as well as returning students who have been inactive for at least two consecutive fall and spring terms, are eligible to apply for master's degree and graduate certificate programs. In addition to the tuition discount, these new domestic graduate applicants will receive a waived application fee—
11 North Alabama-based Startups Awarded Supplemental Funding
Innovate Alabama has awarded more than $3.3 million in SBIR/ STTR supplemental grants to 20 small businesses across Alabama, empowering them to scale cutting-edge technologies and create jobs. Of the 20 grants awarded, 11 will benefit startups based in North Alabama.
The Innovate Alabama Supplemental Grant Program provides non-dilutive funding to companies that have previously received federal SBIR or STTR grants, helping bridge the gap between research and commercialization. With this latest round, Innovate Alabama has now invested more than $17 million across 82 small businesses since the program’s inception.
“By providing follow-on capital through our Supplemental Grant Program, we’re equipping Alabama’s most promising startups with the resources needed to take their innovations to market,” said Cynthia Crutchfield, CEO of Innovate Alabama. “These investments are driving job creation, attracting additional external capital into Alabama, advancing research and technology, and securing Alabama’s place as a competitive hub for innovation.”
The funding will benefit businesses in biotechnology, aerospace, energy, advanced manufacturing, and more.
The 11 North Alabama recipients include:
• Applied Technology Solutions, Inc, Huntsville:
Specializes in hypersonic technologies including advanced materials, hypersonic environments and ground test design.
• Cosmic Shielding Corporation, Huntsville: Specializes in providing radiation shielding technologies for commercial and government space systems.
• Eikon Research, Inc, Huntsville: Specializes in advanced radar technology, including digital radar design, radar operational software, firmware, modeling & simulation, and UI development.
• Hybird Space Systems, Huntsville: Specializes in developing advanced, affordable rocket propulsion technologies for space exploration, national security and commercial aerospace applications.
• Hyperion Aerospace, Huntsville: Specializes in developing green thruster technology for spacecraft, missile defense and satellites.
• KODA Technologies, Huntsville: Specializes in weapon system development – from hands-on engineering to executive leadership. The company solves problems and develops highly technical products for the Department of Defense and NASA.
• Mathinvestments, Inc, Huntsville: Specializes in capturing return premiums associated with investing in individual businesses by utilizing proprietary financial models.
• nou Systems, Inc, Huntsville: The nou Systems (nSI) mission is to develop products and provide services essential to solving our customers' most difficult, urgent and demanding technical problems.
izes in optical nanomaterials. SSSOT and Oakwood University develop Polymer Anti-damage Nanocomposite Down-converting Armor (PANDA) coating to replace cover glass.
• Tellus1 Scientific, LLC, Huntsville: Specializes in advanced optical sensing and measurement, particularly system engineering, modeling and analysis of optics and sensors for space telescopes used in astronomy and remote sensing.
• VETS LLC, Madison: Specializes in developing digital threads and digital twins, Nuclear Surety, Cybersecurity, System Safety, Test Engineering, Systems Engineering, Program Management, Training Development and Product Support. w
Downtown Rescue Mission
Hosts Community Picnic
Downtown Rescue Mission invites the community to a free Independence Picnic on Thursday, July 3rd, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join us as we celebrate freedom, unity and the shared spirit of hope with a fun-filled afternoon for all ages. Enjoy free food, cold drinks, karaoke, games, a bounce house, and much more. Bring the whole family and help us celebrate the joy of community and independence together! Visit downtownrescuemission. org for more information about the Downtown Rescue Mission. w
