For 50 years, the VBC has proudly served as your place to share experiences, build connections, and make memories together. In celebration, we’re racing into Huntsville’s Music Month by hosting a 5K Music Run! Live music will be performed along the route, ending at Mars Music Hall with an after-party featuring JUICE Band. Register today through the QR code below.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 30
DOWNTOWN HUNTSVILLE
Imagine living INSIDE a 500-acre city park
Not near it. Not next to it. Inside it. At Hays Farm, nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s your front yard, backyard, and everyday escape. With over 10 miles of scenic trails, lush green spaces, and a city-maintained 500-acre park, you get all the beauty without the upkeep.
But there’s more than just nature—Hays Farm is designed for the way you want to live, with resort-style amenities and two distinct neighborhoods offering a variety of lot sizes and price points. And when you’re ready for shopping, dining, or entertainment, everything is just minutes away.
Come experience life inside a 500-acre city park—yes, we really mean inside the park. Contact us today to find your dream home, perfectly nestled in nature at Hays Farm.
At Dental Professionals on Whitesburg, our staff includes highly skilled professionals who are dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality dental care in a comfortable and relaxing environment. Dr. Sonya Wintzell and her team work together to meet the diverse needs of our patients. We welcome you to enjoy the experience of Dental Professionals on Whitesburg.
Only First Horizon brings together the best of big and small. Like a powerful network of banking centers, ATMs and online tools local banks can’t match. With local decision-makers big banks often overlook. When the best of big meets the best of small, you get it all.
While we had a rather rainy spring, I doubt we’ll be lucky enough to dodge the signature humidity that settles over our city each summer. Personally, I’m envisioning a beach or a pool in my near future, and I hope the same for each of you.
In this issue, we shine the Spotlight on Wes Kelley, President of Huntsville Utilities. You’ll also want to check out this year’s Huntsville’s Most Eligible, our curated list of eight women and seven men, selected from reader and social media nominations. Keep an eye out for an exclusive meet-and-greet we’re hosting in early August!
As always, our team has been out and about covering the city’s most memorable events—from the Junior League’s Book Ball and Kids to Love’s Denim & Diamonds to HudsonAlpha’s Spring Benefit. There’s no shortage of worthy causes and lively gatherings in this community.
We hope you enjoy flipping through these pages, seeing both familiar faces and new ones. Please remember to support the advertisers who make this magazine possible and be sure to tell them you saw them in Huntsville EVENT Magazine!
Here’s to a joyful, sun-soaked summer, Huntsville!
Todd Stephenson President/Publisher
President/Publisher | Todd Stephenson
Editor | Lori Boatfield
Writers | Katie Holt
Noah Logan
Jennifer Moore
Heather Price
Graphic Design/Website | Jim Gharib/IG Webs
Graphic Design/Creative Director | Patty Satterly
Additional Graphic Design | Anna Michelle Hanks
Amy Pearson
Lead Photographer | Steve Babin
Photographers | Stephanie E. Jennings
Jessie Lewis
Dennis Keim
Monica Martin
Neville Simpson Photography
Director of Sales | Carolyn Stephenson
Distribution | Glenda Mace
HUNTSVILLE EVENT Magazine is published bi-monthly by EVENT Magazine, LLC, P.O. Box 14219, Huntsville, AL 35815. For advertising information please call 256.533.8078 or email advertise@eventhuntsville.com.
For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please visit our website at www.eventhuntsville.com.
SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION
HUNTSVILLE EVENT Magazine is published bi-monthly by EVENT Magazine, LLC. although the magazine is distributed free throughout the area in Athens, Decatur, Fayetteville, Guntersville, Huntsville, Madison and Owens Cross Roads, paid subscriptions are available for $50.00 annually. For new subscriptions or changes of address, call 256.533.8078 or email subscriptions@eventhuntsville.com.
All contents ©2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents without the prior written permission of the publisher is prohibited. HUNTSVILLE EVENT Magazine is a registered trademark of EVENT Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. Unsolicited photographs or articles are submitted at the risk of the photographer or author. EVENT Magazine, LLC assumes no liability for the return of any unsolicited materials and may use them at its discretion.
Happy Summer Huntsville! It’s time for some slowing down, traveling and soaking up the sun.
We can’t wait for you to see what’s in store in this issue. We asked our readers, and they came through with nominations for men and women for one of our best-loved features, Huntsville’s Most Eligible. We gathered for a photoshoot at the historic Bibb House, home of Trey and Samantha Bentley, which provided an incomparable backdrop.
Event season has been at a peak and we’ve been honored to be invited in to share what’s happening around town. From Raise the Roof to The Heart Ball, both of which raised record-breaking funds for their organizations, to jamming with the Huntsville Classic, to the fabulous fascinators at the Spring Hat Luncheon, we’ve been on hand to photograph and share the details.
We could not put this publication into your hands without the partnership of the people who advertise with us. They are the reason we can highlight the many worthy organizations doing so much good in our area. Shop with them for your next car, or your new roof, your furniture or flooring. And don’t forget to tell them you saw them right here in Huntsville EVENT!
Here’s to you Huntsville!
Lori Boatfield Editor
The 7th Annual Book Ball was an exciting evening in Emerald City at the Huntsville Botanical Garden on March 29. Guests enjoyed dinner, drinks, dancing, games and the highly anticipated silent auction. As the Junior League of Huntsville’s premier spring fundraising event, proceeds from the Book Ball support the League’s mission to improve Huntsville and Madison County through service projects and community programs like the Butterfly Project. Sponsors included Regions Bank, FlyHSV and Torch Technologies. n
The 2025 Huntsville Heart Ball was a smashing success, raising over $800,000 in support of the American Heart Association’s efforts to fund lifesaving research. This year’s co-chairs, Ginger Harper and Bill Roark, alongside their Executive Leadership Team, set many records, including the largest Huntsville Heart Ball in terms of attendance and funds raised. Dr. Shi-Chi Cheng was named the Physician of the Year, and Frank J. Williams was the Heart of the Community Recipient. The evening was an example of the Huntsville community in action. n
Celebrating 32 Years
The Huntsville Ballet Guild hosted their 4th Annual Spring Soiree & Fashion Show on Sunday, April 6 at the Royal at Stovehouse. This year’s event was the most successful Soiree to date, with over $20,000 raised for the Huntsville Ballet Company. The Guild presented the inaugural Joan Marcus May Award to past Guild president Jennifer Swoboda. This award was created in honor of May and her incredible contributions to Huntsville Ballet and the arts community. n
Randolph School is the region’s only PK-12 independent school where students are prepared to be lifelong thinkers, creative problem solvers, and fearless leaders.
See the Randolph difference firsthand.
SCHEDULE A TOUR:
Lexus of Huntsville presented a morning of tea, brunch, and heartfelt connections at Studio 60 Senior Center. The Spring Tea Brunch directly supports the programs and services that make a difference in the lives of the organization’s Center for Adult Day Care. Special guest Natasha McCrary, founder of 1818 Farms in Mooresville, shared her inspiring journey as an entrepreneur. Sponsors included Dees Realty, Dunagan Yates & Alison Plastic Surgery Center, Secure Benefits, Tennessee Valley OBGYN, and Vericosity Vein Center. n
The 51st annual Crescen-Dough Auction, on April 11, hosted by the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild, raised vital support for the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra. With an SEC tailgate theme and over 500 auction items, including fine jewelry, exclusive experiences, luxury getaways, and local favorites, the event remains Huntsville’s original and best auction. Chaired by Cathy Scholl and Tabby Ragland, the evening was made possible in part by the generous support of presenting sponsor ServisFirst Bank. n
Advanced Life Clinic held its annual open house on April 10. It was a night of beauty, fun and exclusive savings. Guests donned their boots and bling for the chance to take advantage of semi-annual promotions, amazing door prizes and exciting giveaways, all while sipping signature cocktails and enjoying light bites. n
Kids to Love hosted its 9th annual celebration of Davidson Farms, a refuge for children, filled with faith, hope and love. The event was on April 26 at The Jackson Center. The evening of music featured Darryl Worley, with funds raised to support the girls who live at Davidson Farms and the Whitaker Cottage Community. The event was made possible by Leonardo DRS. n
Save the date! Tickets coming soon. hsvbg.org/calendar
More than 400 people came together to support the HudsonAlpha Spring Benefit on April 24 at the Jackson Center. The event’s purpose was to raise funds and awareness for HudsonAlpha’s brain health research, including for diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, ALS, and childhood neurodevelopmental disorders. This year marked the 17th event, where the organization raised over $300,000! Presenting Sponsors were Lynn and Jim Hudson. n
Join us as Dr. Neil Lamb shares how emerging science at HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology is truly impacting lives both in our community and around the world.
Tuesday, August 19 at 5:30pm e Jackson Center, 6001 Moquin Dr.
FREE EVENT
REGISTER NOW by scanning the QR code or visiting haib.org/neilupdate
SPONSORED BY:
The Spring Hat Luncheon, in the Isenberg Grand Hall at Huntsville Botanical Garden was presented by Twickenham Advisors and chaired by Brittney Shonk on May 1. The event raises funds to facilitate the Garden’s mission of connecting people to plants to improve quality of life. Silver sponsors were Freedom Real Estate, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, Redstone Federal Credit Union and Torch. Speaker Robbie Honey described his career, spanning event design for Hermes, Dior, and a few royal events, to his current quest for orchids and becoming an “accidental botanist.” n
The Avett Brothers headlined Huntsville Hospital Foundation’s 36th annual Huntsville Classic concert May 10, at The Orion Amphitheater. The Red Flags, Huntsville’s own rising rock group opened the show. Classic co-chairs were Jeff Gronberg and Clint Kirkland. Proceeds from the 2025 Huntsville Classic will benefit critical needs at Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children, the region’s only facility dedicated solely to women’s health and advanced pediatric care. Every ticket sold helped fund life-changing equipment, technology, and programs for thousands of local families. n
Written by Lori Boatfield
Wes Kelley was named president and chief executive officer of Huntsville Utilities in 2017. The municipal utility provides electric service to approximately 225,000 homes and businesses, water to more than 100,000. and natural gas services to 60,000 in Huntsville and Madison County.
What path led you to Huntsville Utilities?
I have had the privilege of spending my career in public service. I began working in IT for a higher education institution and then transitioned to my local utility, where I was involved in a proposed publicly owned broadband project. My portfolio spread out to become the number two person at that small electric, water, and wastewater utility. A few years later, I relocated to Pulaski, Tenn., to help launch a fiber-to-the-home broadband project tied to the local electric utility, and I became the CEO after a few years. Later, I moved up the road to Columbia, Tenn., to manage that community’s electric, water, and broadband systems, and then, finally, I hit the big time when I was given the opportunity to lead Huntsville Utilities.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your tenure?
Utilities used to be boring. Pipe and wire don’t usually get people too excited, but that’s no longer the case. The utility industry is changing. During my career, we’ve seen energy issues become front-page news and a top-level concern
for national leaders. Huntsville is one of the larger publicly owned utilities in the country, so we are doing what we can to ensure that our community is well-served during these changing times.
What are you proudest of with regard to your work?
I am proud of the people I work with and the integrity they demonstrate every day, when executing big jobs and small. Huntsville Utilities has three straightforward values: do what’s right, build community, and get better every day. That has permeated our organization, and I hope everyone sees the benefits of this whenever they interact with our people.
What are your goals for the near future?
We are collaborating with a group of engaged stakeholders to explore how Huntsville should prepare its energy infrastructure for the future. National policies may change in response to election cycles, but we have a continuing mission to serve Huntsville and Madison County, ensuring that this community can grow and prosper without being held back by utility infrastructure constraints or delays.
Our area is known for its severe weather. What measures are in place in preparation for those conditions?
Our teams have always quickly responded to whatever Mother Nature throws our way, but we are about to roll
out new tools to help our people be even more effective in this area. Later this year, we will move into a new state-ofthe-art system operations facility providing new resources for managing our utility systems and directing crews efficiently. Additionally, in a few months, we will launch a new outage management system that will enable customers to report service issues and view the status of outages in the area more easily.
What’s your favorite spot in the area?
The view from Monte Sano, looking over Huntsville is always lovely and grounding. Especially at night, it reminds me of our work making sure that all the homes and businesses keep buzzing with activity.
Would you like to talk about your family?
I’m blessed with a great wife, Sundown Kelley, who keeps me moving forward and ensures that our family remains strong and stable. I have two lovely daughters. One is about to be a senior at Lee High School’s visual arts magnet. My other daughter is about to be a sophomore at the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering. She is thrilled with the teaching and resources available at this new Alabama gem. n
Habitat for Humanity of the River Valley’s benefit celebration was on May 1 at the Saturn Ballroom. Foundation Partner was The Schrimsher Company. The organization has partnered with over 300 families to help them realize their dream of affordable homeownership in the Huntsville metropolitan area. Their mission is to build homes, communities, and hope.
Featured speakers were Habitat family, Sasha and Solomon Irby. They shared that the opportunity to own an affordable and safe home allowed their family to not just survive but to thrive. n
The Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame honored Huntsville area athletes, coaches and contributors on Monday, April 14 at the Saturn Ballroom. The banquet was presented by Huntsville Hospital’s Sports Center and The Orthopaedic Center. The class of 2025 brought the number to more than 400 individuals who have been inducted into the Hall of Fame. The Hall includes Olympic medalists, professional all-star athletes and myriad coaches and athletes who impacted the local sports landscape, representing nearly 20 sports, plus media, sports medicine and administration. n
The WEDC Foundation held a reception on April 29 at Redstone Federal Credit Union’s Twickenham Terrace to announce and celebrate the 2025 Honorees ahead of their Women Honoring Women event in September. The celebration was attended by Women Honoring Women sponsors, many past honorees, WEDC Foundation board members and other WEDCF supporters. Presenting Sponsor was Woody Anderson Ford, Platinum Sponsor was The Company You Keep, and Founding Sponsor was Women’s Economic Development Council. n
Blenheim: 300 Years of Life in a Palace Thursday, October 16, 2025
Cocktails 5:30 p.m. | Talk 6:30 p.m. | Dinner 7:30 p.m. | Book Signing $225/pp members | $275/pp non-members
Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill is the eldest daughter of the 11th Duke of Marlborough, whose family home is the iconic Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire. Though Lady Henrietta no longer lives at Blenheim, she still spends ample time at the palace, which is the official residence of her older brother, Charles, the 12th Duke of Marlborough. An international lecturer and author, Henrietta has conducted numerous lectures and book signings worldwide. She is also deeply involved in the restoration of Blenheim Palace and other family properties.
Merit Bank held a Masters Viewing Party on April 11 at Bar Vista at AC Hotel Downtown. The second annual event was a wonderful celebration, a perfect opportunity for Merit Bank to show gratitude for the trust and support of their clients while enjoying a memorable and enjoyable experience together. n
1
West Coast Swing Dance Lesson in The Electric Belle!
Electric Belle 6:30 – 10 p.m. Every Tuesday
Join the Rocket Westies in The Electric Belle at Stovehouse every Tuesday for a free West Coast Swing Dance Lesson at 6:30, followed by open dancing until 10. You do not need a partner to participate.
Mother Earth Troll Garden
Huntsville Botanical Garden – Recurring Daily, Times Vary
Step into a world of wonder at Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Mother Earth Troll Garden, an enchanting, nature-inspired space featuring Mama Zelda, a breathtaking sculpture by world-renowned artist Thomas Dambo. This whimsical destination invites visitors of all ages to explore a living maze, connect with nature, and experience the magic of one of Dambo’s legendary trolls, crafted with sustainability and storytelling at its heart.
Discovering Mars: Robot Explorers
US Space & Rocket Center – Recurring Daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Discovering Mars: Robot Explorers is now open with full-scale models of the Mars Sojourner, Mars Exploration and Curiosity rovers along with the InSight Mars Lander, and the Ingenuity helicopter. Each of these vehicles in this interactive exhibit represents the kinds of robotic technologies that have explored the Martian surface, providing valuable insight on our solar system neighbor - Mars. For more information and prices, visit www.rocketcenter.com
2
Cocktails at The View
Burritt on the Mountain 5 – 8 p.m. Wednesdays
Watch the sun go down and enjoy stunning views of Huntsville and beautiful sunsets from the best view of Huntsville! VIP reserved tables can be purchased, and many tables are available with open seating. Ride with a friend and carpool to help with parking.
No admission charge. You bring your friends – we supply The View!
A full bar and non-alcoholic beverages available for cash or credit. Small appetizers and snacks are sold at the event. Pre-order Gourmet Appetizers by Monday at 4 p.m. each week.
Small and large group accommodations available. Private party menus offered. Contact Cooper Murray at tamara.murray@huntsvilleal.gov
In the event of rain, Cocktails on the View will be held in the Pavilion. No admission charge. No outside food or drink please.
3
The Greene Street Market at Nativity
208 Eustis Avenue (Corner of Eustis and Greene) 3 – 7 p.m.
The Greene Street Market at Nativity is open every Thursday afternoon from the first Thursday in May to the last Thursday in October.
4
Independence Day Celebration at MidCity District
Join MidCity District from Friday, July 4th to Sunday, July 6th, for TONS of wonderful, family-friendly activities, including a massive fireworks celebration on Friday, July 4th presented by the Apollo Coalition.
5:00 pm - live music and activities begin in Apollo Park and around MidCity. 9:30pm - Fireworks Celebration - presented by the Apollo Coalition and choreographed to music on MIX 96.9, so you can tune in from wherever you’re watching!
10:00 pm – Patriotic Glow Party in Apollo Park after fireworks!
Trash Pandas 4th of July Festival
Toyota Field 5:30 – 9 p.m.
Join the Trash Pandas for a festival on Independence Day, culminating with a Fourth of July Fireworks Extravaganza! There will be games for the kids, food, face painting, snow cones, cotton candy, live music, the Trash Pandas game at Knoxville on the videoboard, and more!
5
The Providence Market
7 Towne Center Drive, NW; Suite 102 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
7
Concerts In The Park
Big Spring Park, recurring Mondays
A Huntsville summer tradition, Arts Huntsville and Huntsville Parks & Recreation’s Concerts in the Park start on the first Monday in June and are held over ten weeks, every Monday evening through August. The free series showcases local music talent in a mix of genres from rock, folk, and country to Latin, dance, R&B, and top 40 hits.
11
Space Camp Hall of Fame Dinner
US Space & Rocket Center 6 – 9 p.m.
The Space Camp Hall of Fame includes graduates who have distinguished themselves in their respective careers and friends of the USSRC who have made considerable contributions of personal time, effort, or resources to further the goals of the Space Camp family of programs. the 2025 class will be inducted at this dinner.
25
Shakespeare in the Garden
Huntsville Botanical Garden, 7:30 – 9 p.m.
Performances by Huntsville Shakespeare
Experience the timeless works of William Shakespeare like never before, outdoors and under the summer stars at the Huntsville Botanical Garden Amphitheatre. This summer, don’t miss this fan-favorite event! UAH’s “Huntsville Shakes” will perform two rotating productions: the haunting tragedy Macbeth and the fast-paced comedy The Comedy of Errors. With a minimalist approach and a fresh perspective, these beloved classics take on new life in a truly magical setting. For more information, visit www.hsvbg.org
26
Studio 60’s Hot Southern Nights GALA Saturn Ballroom, VBC 6 – 11:30 p.m.
The evening begins with a VIP reception, followed by a plated dinner. Local favorite band JUICE will entertain and attendees can enjoy an upscale Silent Auction, Whiskey and Wine Pulls, Photo Booth - all in a beautiful garden atmosphere. STUDIO 60 was incorporated 51 years ago as the Huntsville-Madison County Senior Center. Our mission is to reimagine aging through wellness, connection, and lifelong learning – all in a vibrant inclusive community Space. Proceeds from the Gala benefit vital STUDIO 60 programs provided to active community seniors – now totaling 1/5 of our county residents.
17
Merrimack’s Rocket City Microthon Butler Green at Campus 805 2 – 4 p.m.
A family friendly fundraising event spoofing a traditional road race. All proceeds benefit Merrimack’s arts education programs for children and adults with special needs.
Written by Jennifer Moore, Pres./CEO Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Summer sun means summer fun, and there is plenty of both here in the Rocket City! Music will fill the air throughout the season, with live performances at venues across the community. The Orion Amphitheater, Von Braun Center, Stovehouse, Burritt on the Mountain, Campus No. 805, and Big Spring International Park, are all hosting live music events this summer. Make your plans now to enjoy live music both indoors and under the stars.
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) is celebrating 65 years of their critical role in U.S. space flight, and you’re invited to the party at The Orion Amphitheater. On Saturday, July 19, from noon until 5 pm, MSFC and dozens of organizations from across the community, will hold family-friendly activities in and around the amphitheater. Come out and show your support to the MSFC team at this free event.
The Huntsville Botanical Garden is buzzing with activity. The Purdy Butterfly House is alive with the fluttering of wings, and the grounds are bursting with color and the beauty of nature. The garden is a great place for a morning stroll, midday picnic, or an afternoon of relaxation among the flora and fauna. Pay a visit to Mama Zelda, the massive troll created by artist Thomas Dambo, to see how she and the garden are forming their symbiotic relationship.
Biergarten is back at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center! There’s a party every Thursday from 5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. under the Saturn V rocket. There is no admission charge, and German food and various refreshments are available to purchase, as you enjoy live music under the historic moon rocket.
Stop by the Huntsville/Madison County Visitor Center® at 500 Church Street NW in downtown Huntsville, where our staff is ready to share ideas for making your summer unforgettable. Visit www.huntsville.org for updates, and use our Passport Coupons to help stretch your budget.
View the entire Huntsville Happenings article (including ongoing, recurring, and special events) on Huntsville EVENT’s website at eventhuntsville.com/HuntsvilleHappenings. n
