HEM JanFeb2026

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JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2026

Best of Huntsville Issue

Live the Village Life Townhomes from the Mid to Upper $500s Single Family Homes from the Mid $600s to $1+ Million • Built by Huntsville’s Finest Builders - Built by Bryan, Ford Classic Homes, and Black Crow Building Co. • Sidewalks along beautiful tree-lined streets • Town Center with great restaurants and shopping • Two Clubhouses with work-out facilities and gathering spaces • Junior Olympic, Zero-Entry and Kiddie Pools • Playground • Dog Park • Event lawn and pocket parks

NEW HOMESITES - NOW SELLING PHASE 13 VillageofProvidenceRealty.com

Sales Center: 256.701.4646 Model Home Open Daily | 19 Eddy St. - Huntsville, AL

Marketed by Village of Providence Realty, LLC *Prices subject to change

THE CENTER

OF IT ALL

20,500+ EVENTS 27,500,000+ GUESTS

Countless Memories Made.

Scan QR code to watch our documentary, read the book, and see upcoming events; or visit vonbrauncenter.com

#VBC50

As we near the end of our 50th anniversary in March, we continue welcoming guests from near and far, hosting events of all kinds and celebrating our milestone with you.

We are immensely proud of the positive impact the VBC has on our community and region at large, and we look forward to another fifty years!

CONTINUING IN ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP

Dr. Limbaugh is a member and has served in leadership roles in the ALAO, SAO and AAO. FAMILY AT HEART

Dr. Limbaugh enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two children.

BOARD CERTIFIED

Commitment to the highest standards of clinical excellence in orthodontics.

COMMUNITY DRIVEN

Dr. Limbaugh is proud to give back by supporting local organizations.

YOUR TRUSTED PARTNER IN ORTHODONTIC CARE LIMBAUGHORTHO.COM

// 256.882.6000 // 600 Airport Rd SW, Huntsville, Alabama 35802

Dr. Sonya Wintzell, DMD, FICOI and team

HAPPY NEW YEAR & WELCOME TO 2026!

Dr. Sonya Wintzell and her team invite you to become a patient at Dental Professionals on Whitesburg. Our goal is to provide an outstanding dental experience designed around YOU where we create exceptional smiles with extraordinary care!

Give us a call, we would enjoy speaking with you!

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CONTENTS of

TABLE 10

Every Issue 12 14 60

Publisher’s Letter Editor’s Note Huntsville Happenings

Events 16 20 22

24 28 30 40 42 46 50 52 54

62nd Annual Symphony Ball

44

Moon Dance at Three Caves Downtown Rescue Mission’s 50th Anniversary Bollywood Night Women Honoring Women Taste of Huntsville Reimagined Voices of Our Times Best Life Recovery Fundraiser Isaiah 41:10 Carnival of Giving

48

Summit on Philanthropy Community Ballet Awards Van Valkenburgh Wilkinson Properties 40th Anniversary

Editorials 31 44 48 56 58 62

Feature: Best of Huntsville Centerstage: Noel Webster Spotlight: Susan Klingel Gothic Guild Announcement Rocket City Rewind: The Humes Legacy Parting Shot: Burritt Mansion

On the Cover Honorees Veronica Cram, Kathi Tew, Dr. Patricia Sims, Lee Marshall at WEDC Foundation’s Women Honoring Women Photo by Steve Babin

BRING YOUR VISION TO LIFE WITH LUXE HOME PAINTING WHERE PRECISION, DESIGN, AND DETAIL COME TOGETHER.

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A Letter from the Publisher

President/Publisher | Todd Stephenson Editor | Lori Boatfield Writers | Mike Easterling Katie Holt Noah Logan Jennifer Moore Heather Price Graphic Design/Website | Tina Simon Graphic Design/Creative Director | Patty Satterly Additional Graphic Design | Anna Michelle Hanks Amy Pearson Lead Photographer | Steve Babin

Happy New Year, Huntsville!

Another year has come and gone, and 2025 is officially in the books.

For me, it was a year marked by both loss and gratitude. One filled with farewells and celebrations alike. I attended several funerals, but I also had the joy of celebrating weddings, including one very special occasion...my daughter’s. Carolyn and I have officially entered our empty-nester chapter, and we’re looking ahead with excitement to what this next season holds.

In this issue, you’ll find coverage of events supporting worthy causes alongside gatherings hosted by many of our valued advertising partners.

We’re also proud to spotlight Noel Webster, a Huntsville music scene “secret” making waves on the national stage, and Susan Klingel, whose leadership at the ARC of Madison County continues to make a meaningful impact in our community.

After tallying more than 118,000 votes, we’re thrilled to present the Best of Huntsville 2025! These businesses truly deserve recognition.

While you’ll see some familiar winners, there are also many new ones this year, most of them small, locally-owned businesses that play a vital role in making Huntsville such a special place.

I hope you enjoy seeing both new and familiar faces throughout these pages. As you flip through the issue, please take note of our advertising partners and support them whenever possible. Their commitment makes everything we do possible. And as always, don’t forget to tell them you saw them in EVENT Magazine!

Here’s to a wonderful New Year and another great year in Huntsville.

Scan the QR Code below to visit our website eventhuntsville.com

Todd Stephenson President/Publisher 12

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Photographers |

Stephanie E. Jennings Dennis Keim Jessie Lewis Jeff White KWaldrup Studio & Design

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 ©2026. 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.

To Submit an Ad or Event to HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE please call us 256.533.8078 or visit our website eventhuntsville.com

You Work Hard.

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Editor’s Note

Valentines Gift Guide Illume Candle

Latika

Happy New Year Huntsville, The whirlwind that was 2025 has ushered in the new year. The days are getting longer – hallelujah! With a middle schooler, a high schooler with a brand new driver’s permit and a college student, our year is shaping up to be exciting to say the least.

We are proud to present the winners of Best of Huntsville. Our community took to their phones and keyboards to make their voices heard. A record number of votes were cast, culminating in a list that signifies the brightest and best of our area.

Champagne Lollia

Julie Vos

Event season has been abuzz with activity, and we have been honored to be along for the ride. From the Summit on Philanthropy to Women Honoring Women and milestone anniversaries for Downtown Rescue Mission and Van Valkenburgh & Wilkinson Properties, we’ve captured the moments and the people that make Huntsville a great spot to call home.

We could not put this publication in your hands without our advertising partners. Their support allows us to highlight so many nonprofits and the people who empower them to do so much good. Shop with them for your next home, your next vehicle, your new roof, your home or business financing. And don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Huntsville EVENT!

Glasshouse Perfume

Here’s to 2026,

Jon Hart

Follow us on

Lori Boatfield Editor 14

PJ Harlow

guntersville | albertville www.shopstach.com

th 1a0 ! nnual

New Year, New Sparkle!

Indulge in 50 champagnes and sparkling wines paired with surprising small bites designed to dazzle. We’re turning up the intrigue with a special port wine feature and adventurous pairings, including roasted alligator, oysters, and a few secrets we can’t spill yet!

Reserve your glass!

Jan 15 / 6-9pm / Huntsville Museum of Art

churchstreetfamily.com

The 2025 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild Debutantes

Randy Roper, Emily Stone, Dr. Ken Rivenbark

Symphony Orchestra Guild Celebrates 62nd Ball The 62nd Annual Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Ball was held on October 25 at the Von Braun Center’s Saturn Ballroom. The event, a cornerstone of the local cultural calendar, celebrated the presentation of 23 young ladies, marking their debut into society. Décor was

by Kristin Burnett and Kathy Clay of Kathleen’s Interiors, along with Frances Melick of Shindigs and Such. Dr. Ken Rivenbark served as Master of Ceremonies. The Symphony Ball, with its blend of tradition, elegance, and community support, remains a significant part of the city’s cultural landscape. n Photos by Steve Babin

continued on page 18 Pam Gann, Geri Griffin, Samantha Bentley

The 2025 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild Debutante Ball Committee

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Meredith Perez, Christi Shores

Celebrating 32 Years

Symphony Ball continued

Henri Helstowski, Laura McManus

The 2025 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Debutante Ball Escorts

Pam Gann, Sarah Gessler, Joanna Rouse, Keyke Reed, Emily Stone, Alison Cannon Geri Griffin, Janye Clary

The 2025 Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Debutante Ball Advisors

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Jennifer & Michael Lapidus

Harry & Charlotte Spear, Rhonda & Warren Okerberg

Dennis Keim, Evan Billiter

Marie Bostick, Mary Grace Evans, Mark Spencer

Joe Fehrenbach, Glynn Below, Lee Boles, Mike Dalen

Willis & Gilliane Jones

Cathal & Lindsey Keane

Chawn & John Wade

Moon Dance at Three Caves Benefits Land Trust

Sennie & Kyle Hoover

The Moon Dance was held at Three Caves at Montesano Nature Preserve, one of the largest urban nature preserves in the US, on September 20. The event included a buffet-style dinner by Carraba’s Italian Grill; live music by Quantaphonics, a progressive soul powerhouse; along with a silent auction, including unique experiences on Land Trust properties, local art and a variety of products and services. n Photos by Jessie Lewis Reid & Melissa Duff

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Photo by Rachel Taylor Photography

Love the Way You Look this Valentine’s Day NON-INVASIVE COSMETIC PROCEDURES - WEIGHT LOSS - WELLNESS - BIO IDENTICAL HORMONES 115 Queensbury Drive • Huntsville, AL 35802 256.882.6555 • www.advancedlifeclinic.com Follow us on Hayley DeGraaff, M.D. Owner / Medical Director

Jennifer Sholes, M.D. Physician Injector

Keith Overholt, Jenn Maturano, Ashleigh Hayes, Kirk Thompson

Cory & Audra Parks, Darren & Magan White, Kirk & Kristy Thompson, David & Donna Weeks, Dustin & Erin Weeks, Charlotte & Mike Brodowski

Downtown Rescue Mission’s 50 Years of Hope

Casey & Tonya Boardman

Downtown Rescue Mission celebrated its 50th Anniversary on September 16 in the Saturn Ballroom at VBC. The event commemorated the organization’s years of service and ministry while raising funds to support ongoing work of providing shelter, meals, recovery programs and job readiness resources for those in need. Five time Grammy nominee Matthew West performed, along with comedian Mike Williams. Presenting sponsor was Bentley Buick GMC. “This is a celebration of fifty years of lives being transformed,” said Jonathan Walsh, Executive Vice President of Development. n Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings

Cliff & Julie Sawyer, Craig & Lisa Paulus, Becca & Rob Abercrombie, Brett & Angie Franklin

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David & Bertie Brumm, Joan & Phil Collins

Tim & Jordan Lawless, Becka & Chase Christian

Sonya & Billy Dunlap, Travis Collins, Sylvia & Melvin Allen, Mike Brodowski, John Johnson, Charlotte Brodowski

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Brahms Violin Concerto SATURDAY, FEBRUARY21, 2026 Featuring: Abigél Králik, Violin

7:30PM Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

256.539-4818

W W W. H S O . O R G

Holly Brockman, Scott Gallagher, Heather Brockman, Chris Taylor

Lynn Troy, Wendy Daehn, Kassie Whitaker, Chris & Shelbie Simpson

Bollywood Gala Benefits Aum Foundation

Hollie Beaver, Alka Bhargav, Demetria Green

Raj Khanijow, Alka Bhargav, Electia & Frank Williams

24

Bollywood is the Aum Foundation’s signature annual fundraising gala, blending culture, celebration, and purpose, held on October 18 at VBC’s Saturn Hall. The event featured dazzling dance performances, live music, exquisite food, and colorful décor, transporting guests into an unforgettable evening of festivity – all to raise funds to provide under-resourced young women with scholarships, technology, and access to lifechanging educational programs. With live and silent auctions, guests had more ways to support the mission while enjoying one of Huntsville’s most anticipated charity events. n Photos by Steve Babin

Rhonda Gilyard, Kim Caudle Lewis, Shateka Montague, Latarsha Crutcher Back: Bonita Williams, Shauna Bates

continued on page 26

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Nikki Dillard, Lauren Riehl

Rachael Smith, Desiree Hoffman, David Staley, Jamie Cornett, Paul Rhoades, Lacy Dyar, Anya Rhoades

Bollywood continued

Ruchi, Sameer & Sangeeta Singhal, Alka Bhargav

Evan Willis, Kristen Strickland

Kim Caudle Lewis, Dr. William Seltzer, Dr. Jeanne Payne

Dr. Ed & Miranda Nichols

26

JoAnn Perez, Keith Kataoka

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Hannah Guy, Angel Stinson, Katiya McKinney

Demetria Green, Rhonda Gilyard

Amanda Jarrett, Marie Waxel The 2025 Women Honoring Women Honorees with Past Honorees

Chrystal Young, Joyce Skinner, Katie Roden, Nori Horton, Bridget Blau, Kristine Clark

Nakeria Jenkins, Peggy Lee Wright, Diamond Gooden Blake Weathersby, Sonya Bailor Weathersby

Honoree Dr. Annie Saylor

WEDC Foundation Hosts Women Honoring Women The WEDC Foundation held its 24th annual gala fundraiser, Women Honoring Women on September 18 at the VBC Saturn Ballroom. Woody Anderson Ford served as Presenting Sponsor for the 12th year. The WEDC Foundation is a nonprofit empowering collegiate women through mentoring, financial assistance, and professional development. The event serves as inspiration to the WEDC Foundation scholars and event guests, recognizing exceptional women making a notable impact in the community while also striving to assist others in achieving their dreams. n Photos by Steve Babin 28

Phylis & Bob Baron

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

TJ & Peggy Lee Wright

Lynn Troy, Kim Lewis

Jennifer Linton, Cal Linton-Miller, Jana Miller

Abby Guasti, Erin Smith

Ashley Engles-Ross, Amy Gandy, Bev Weiner

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Michael Kirkpatrick, Laura Hodge

Marie & Joe Newberry

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Regina Burnett, Essence Nesbit

Michael & Nicole Kenyon

Anna Bardar, Payton Walker

Taste of Huntsville Reimagined After a five-year hiatus, one of the Rocket City’s most beloved culinary events is back.

The 46th Annual Taste of Huntsville returned on October 2 to support the local hospitality industry. Presented by Redstone Federal Credit Union, the event was hosted by the Huntsville-Madison County Hospitality Association (HMCHA) and took guests on a scenic stroll through the trails of the Huntsville Botanical Garden, where top local restaurants, caterers, and beverage vendors served up creative small bites and sips in a beautiful open-air setting. n Photos by Steve Babin

Toyea Abbott, Danielle Cassells

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James Johnson, Randy Barbour, Ashley Engles-Ross, Michelle Epling, Rick Connor

Alisa & Kacey Clark

HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Pam Williams, Terry Winland

Huntsville showed up in a big way. After an exciting voting period, you, our dedicated readers, made their voices heard by casting more than 118,000 votes for your favorite local businesses in Best of Huntsville 2025. The results are in, and we are thrilled to present this year’s Readers’ Choice winners.

From longtime favorites to rising hometown standouts, these businesses represent the heart, hustle, and spirit that make Huntsville such a remarkable place to live, work, and do business.

While we celebrate those earning top honors, every nominated business is a winner, supported by a community that truly believes in buying local and lifting one another up.

Thank you to everyone who voted and helped make this campaign such a success.

I encourage you to visit these outstanding businesses and let them know you saw them in the Huntsville Business Journal and Huntsville EVENT Magazine.

Your support is what keeps our local business community strong.

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BEST ATTRACTION

WINNER The U.S. Space & Rocket Center www.rocketcenter.com Runner-Up Huntsville Botanical Gardens

BEST DJ SERVICE

WINNER DJ Jake Brasfield Vibe & Vision www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61573888130676

Runner-Up

Metropolitan DJ

BEST FESTIVAL

WINNER Madison Street Festival www.madisonstreetfestival.org

Runner-Up

Panoply Arts Festival

BEST GOLF COURSE

WINNER Robert Trent Jones - Hampton Cove www.rtjgolf.com/hamptoncove

Runner-Up

Huntsville Country Club

BEST HOTEL

WINNER 106 Jefferson www.106jefferson.com

Runner-Up

AC Hotel by Marriott Huntsville 32

BEST MOVIE THEATER WINNER Cinemark Bridgestreet www.cinemark.com

Runner-Up

AMC Valley Bend 18

BEST LOCAL BAND WINNER Connor McMurray

Runner-Up

Microwave Dave

BEST MUSEUM

WINNER The U.S. Space & Rocket Center

www.rocketcenter.com Runner-Up

EarlyWorks Children’s Museum

BEST MUSIC VENUE

WINNER Orion Amphitheater www.theorionhuntsville.com

Runner-Up

Mars Music Hall

BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

WINNER The U.S. Space & Rocket Center

www.rocketcenter.com Runner-Up

Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment

BEST PERFORMING ARTS

WINNER Broadway Theater League www.broadwaytheatreleague.org

Runner-Up

Fantasy Children’s Theatre and Academy

BEST WEDDING & EVENT VENUE WINNER Burritt on the Mountain www.burrittonthemountain.com

Runner-Up

The Glass House Venue

BEST MAKEUP ARTIST

WINNER Olivia Sparks MUA www.oliviasparksmua.com

Runner-Up H&M by Cait

BEST MED SPA

WINNER Advanced Life Clinic www.advancedlifeclinic.com

Runner-Up

Pearl Skin Aesthetics

BEST BEAUTY SERVICE WAXING, BROWS, ETC WINNER Cabana Wax www.cabanawax.com

Runner-Up

Honee Spa & Wax Studio

BEST CHIROPRACTIC / HOLISTIC SERVICE

WINNER Health Source Chiropractic of Hampton Cove www.healthsourcechiro.com

Runner-Up

Frontier Medical Associates

BEST DAY SPA

WINNER DanTera SalonSpa, Inc. www.danterasalondayspa.com

Runner-Up

Float Huntsville

BEST DENTIST / ORTHODONTIST WINNER Limbaugh Orthodontics

www.limbaughortho.com

Runner-Up

Alabama Pediatric Dental Associates & Orthodontics

BEST DERMATOLOGIST

BEST MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

WINNER Southeastern Skin Cancer & Dermatology

WINNER Aleisha Chaffin, LPC www.aleishachaffin.dr-leonardo.com

Runner-Up

57 North Hampton

www.southeasternskin.com

Hesterman Dermatology

BEST EYE CARE

WINNER Eye Care Associates

www.webeca.com Runner-Up - TIE • Dr. Cara Gilliland • R City Eye Care

BEST FITNESS / GYM

WINNER Gracie Barra Madison www.gbmadisonalabama.com

Runner-Up

Burn Boot Camp

BEST GENERAL PRACTITIONER WINNER Cardinal Medical Group www.cardinalmedicalgroupal.com

Runner-Up

CureMe Clinic

BEST HAIR SALON

WINNER Salon Sage www.salonsagehuntsville.com

Runner-Up

DanTera SalónSpa, Inc.

Runner-Up

BEST NAIL SALON

WINNER L’arte Nail Salon www.lartenailbarhuntsville.com

Runner-Up - TIE

• VSL Nail Spa • LP Luxury Nail Lounge

BEST OB / GYN

WINNER Clinic for Women www.clinicforwomen.com

Runner-Up

Women 4 Women

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

WINNER Frontier Medical Associates www.frontiermedical.us

Runner-Up

Huntsville Pediatric Associates

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON WINNER Dunagan Yates & Alison

www.dyaplasticsurgery.com

Runner-Up

Plastic Surgery in Huntsville

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BEST BAKERY

WINNER Sweet Bites Bake Shoppe www.sweetbiteshsv.com

Runner-Up

Canadian Bakin

BEST BAR

WINNER Stella’s Elixir Lounge www.stellashsv.com

Runner-Up

The Providence Bar

BEST BREWERY

WINNER Old Black Bear www.oldblackbear.com

Runner-Up Back Forty

BEST CATERER

WINNER Chupper Time Catering www.chuppertimecatering.com

Runner-Up Taco Mama

BEST COFFEE SHOP

WINNER Angel’s Island www.angelsislandcoffee.net

Runner-Up

Flint River Coffee Shop

BEST FOOD TRUCK

WINNER Fire & Spice www.firespicefoodtruck.com

Runner-Up El Cazador

BEST PIZZERIA

WINNER Grimaldi’s www.grimaldispizzeria.com

Runner-Up

Big Ed’s Pizza 34

BEST RESTAURANT - BBQ WINNER Big Bob Gibson’s www.bigbobgibson.com

Runner-Up Lawlers

BEST RESTAURANT - AMERICAN WINNER City Cafe www.citycafedinerhsv.com

Runner-Up

Baumhowers

BEST RESTAURANT - ASIAN WINNER I Love Sushi www.ilovesushihuntsville.com

Runner-Up

Surin of Thailand

BEST RESTAURANT - GERMAN WINNER Ol Heidelberg Cafe www.facebook.com/OlHeidelberg

Runner-Up

Hildegard’s German Cuisine

BEST RESTAURANT - SEAFOOD WINNER Bonefish Grill www.bonefishgrill.com

BEST RESTAURANT - INDIAN WINNER The Curry Modern Indian www.thecurryrestaurant.com

Runner-Up

Sitar Indian Cuisine

BEST RESTAURANT - ITALIAN WINNER Luigi’s Italian Grill www.luigisitaliangrillmadison. godaddysites.com

Runner-Up

Mazarra’s Vinoteca

BEST RESTAURANT - MEXICAN WINNER Rosie’s Mexican Cantina www.rosiesmexicancantina.com

Runner-Up - TIE

• Taco Mama • Phil Sandoval’s Mexican Restaurante

BEST RESTAURANT - UPSCALE WINNER Connors Steak & Seafood www.connorsrestaurant.com

Runner-Up

Domaine South

Runner-Up

Domaine South continued on page 36

FULL SERVICE DESIGN | HOME DECOR | GIFTS

2 OFF BROADWAY ST. SUITE 102

@designtheoryinteriors

www.designtheory-interiors.com

BEST PAINTING CONTRACTOR WINNER Luxe Home Painting www.luxehomepainting.com

Runner-Up: TIE

BEST ARCHITECT

WINNER IL Design www.irislockridgedesign.com

Runner-Up

Matheny and Goldmon

BEST CLEANING SERVICE

WINNER Greener Southeast Upholstery & Flooring Care www.greenerse.com

Runner-Up

Dempsey Cleaning, LLC.

BEST CONCRETE CONTRACTOR WINNER Del Rancho Concrete www.delranchoconcrete.com

Runner-Up

Lightfoot Concrete

BEST GENERAL CONTRACTOR WINNER Firehouse Construction Company www.firehouseconstruction.pro

Runner-Up

Bret Slaton Homes

BEST FLOORING CENTER WINNER Haley’s Flooring www.haleysflooring.com

Runner-Up

Floors by Moore

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BEST FURNITURE /HOME DECOR

WINNER Reflections Home Furnishings www.reflectionshomefurnishings.com

Runner-Up

Haley’s Furnishings

BEST GARDEN CENTER

WINNER Bennett Nurseries www.bennettnurseries.com

Runner-Up

Brooks & Collier, Inc.

BEST HVAC CONTRACTOR WINNER Annette Hale’s Indoor Comfort Systems www.indoorcomforthsv.com

Runner-Up

Cooper Climate Control

BEST LAWN CARE /LANDSCAPING

• Painter Bros • Rogers Painting

BEST PEST CONTROL WINNER Cooks Pest Control www.cookspest.com

Runner-Up

Cothren’s Pest Control

BEST PLUMBING CONTRACTOR WINNER J. Henry Plumbing www.jhenryplumbing.com

Runner-Up

Scott Plumbing

BEST ROOFING CONTRACTOR WINNER Superior Roofing Solutions www.thesuperiorroof.com

Runner-Up

Fleming Roofing

BEST SWIMMING POOL CONTRACTOR

WINNER Everett Landscaping

www.everettlandscaping.

WINNER Premier Pools www.premierpoolsandspas.com

jobbersites.com

Runner-Up

Runner-Up

Burleson Pools

Appalachia Landscaping

BEST MASONRY CONTRACTOR WINNER JAW Construction

BEST TREE SERVICE

WINNER Knock ‘em Down Tree Service www.knockemdown.net

Runner-Up

North Alabama Tree Service

BEST ANTIQUE / VINTAGE STORE WINNER Firehouse Antiques www.firehouseantiquesmall.com

Runner-Up

University Pickers

BEST BOOK STORE

BEST FARMERS MARKET

WINNER Isoms Orchard www.facebook.com/isomsorchard

Runner-Up

Green Street Farmer’s Market

BEST FLORIST

WINNER Booklegger Used Books www.booklegger.net

WINNER Albert’s Flowers www.albertsflowers.com

Runner-Up

Runner-Up

BEST BOUTIQUE

BEST GIFT SHOP

Blushing Books of Huntsville

In Bloom

WINNER Ana Banana A Happy Little Shop www.shopanabanana.com

WINNER Mojana Soaps wwwmojanasoaps.com

Runner-Up

The Little Green Store

Sweet Pineapple

BEST BRIDAL SHOP

WINNER Amari Bridal www.amaribridal.com

Runner-Up

Birch on Main

BEST CAR DEALERSHIP

WINNER Hiley Audi Volkswagen Mazda www.audihuntsville.com

Runner-Up

Century BMW Porsche Volvo Jaguar Landrover

Runner-Up

BEST GROCERY STORE WINNER Publix www.publix.com

Runner-Up Aldi

BEST JEWELRY STORE

WINNER Donny’s Diamond Gallery www.donnysdiamondgallery.com

Runner-Up

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING

WINNER Oxford Street Menswear www.oxfordstreetmw.com

Runner-Up Jos A. Bank

BEST PET STORE

WINNER - Tie Hollywood Feed www.hollywoodfeed.com PetSmart www.petsmart.com

Runner-Up PetSense

BEST SPORTING GOOD

WINNER - TIE Dick’s Sporting Goods www.dickssportinggoods.com Academy Sports & Outdoors www.academy.com

Runner-Up

Mountain High Outfitters

BEST TOY STORE

WINNER Learning Express Toys & Gifts www.learningexpress.com

Runner-Up

Rocket City Toys

Loring & Co. Fine Jewelers

37

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM

WINNER Accounting Solutions www.accountingsolutionshsv.com

Runner-Up

Honeycomb CPA & Advisors

BEST ATTORNEY

WINNER Garnett Patterson Injury Lawyers, LLC. www.huntsvilleinjurylawyers.com

Runner-Up

Miller Jackson

BEST AUDIO / VISUAL WINNER Verta Technologies www.verta.tech

Runner-Up

Rocket City Momentum

BEST AUTO REPAIR SHOP WINNER Icon Autoworks www.iconautoworks.net

Runner-Up

Hampton Cove Auto Service

BEST BANK

WINNER Redstone Federal Credit Union www.redfcu.org

Runner-Up Merit Bank

BEST DAY CARE

WINNER Little Valley Academy www.littlevalleyacademy.com

Runner-Up

Ardent Preschool & Daycare 38

BEST DRY CLEANER WINNER Carriage Cleaners

www.carriagecleanershuntsville.com

Runner-Up

Gates Cleaners

BEST EDUCATIONAL SERVICE WINNER Brian Robinson Coaching www.brianrobinsoncoaching.com

Runner-Up

Kingdom Heights

BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR

WINNER Brad Wallace Edward Jones www.edwardjones.com/us-en/ financial-advisor/brad-wallace

Runner-Up

Dan Amesbury Morgan Stanley

BEST INSURANCE COMPANY WINNER Alfa Insurance www.alfainsurance.com

Runner-Up State Farm

BEST MARKETING FIRM

BEST PET GROOMING, BOARDING / SITTING, TRAINING WINNER Zen Dog Grooming www.zendogsllc.com

Runner-Up

Dapper Dog Spa

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER

WINNER Taylor Harris Photography

www.taylorharrisphotography.com

Runner-Up

Suzi Day Photo

BEST REAL ESTATE - COMMERCIAL WINNER Coldwell Banker Commercial www.cbcworldwide.com

Runner-Up

Chapman Commercial

BEST REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL WINNER Amanda Wasenius - Keller Williams www.amandahuntsvillehomes.com

Runner-Up

Michael Tincher Capstone Realty

BEST SCHOOL

WINNER Tektite Digital www.tektite.digital

WINNER Valley Fellowship Christian Academy www.vfchristianacademy.com

Runner-Up

Runner-Up

Gemma Social

BEST NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

Buckhorn High School

BEST VETERINARIAN

WINNER Kids To Love www.kidstolove.org

WINNER Towne Park Animal Care Center www.towneparkpets.com

Runner-Up

Runner-Up

Bearded Warriors

Chase Animal Hospital

Dr. Calame & Dianne Sammons

Christopher Madkour, Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill

Pei-Ying Chou, David Chan

Riley & Chris Parker

Voices of Our Times Hosts Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill Hank Isenberg, Andrea Petroff, Peggy & Bob Serio

The Huntsville Museum of Art hosted its popular series Voices of Our Times on October 16, featuring Lady Henrietta Spencer-Churchill. The author, whose family home is the iconic Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, birthplace of Winston Churchill, founded a successful interior design company in 1981, and spoke of her ancestral home and recent publication, Blenheim: 300 Years of Life in a Palace. A book signing was held after the speech with fare catered by Church Street Wine Shoppe. n Photos by Steve Babin

Mark & Samia Spencer, Nathan Rigby

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Peter & Betsy Lowe

Your Reset Starts Here

A New Year Starts With You!

Schedule Your Wellness Consultation Today!

Board Certified Physician Team On-Site esswellness.us | 256-257-3992 Address: 2702 Triana Blvd SW, Huntsville, AL

Greg Staggs, Keating Johns, William Johns, Stephanie Jennings

Melissa Caldwell

Best Life Leadership & Supporters

Stephanie Jennings, Mitchell Delk Best Life Board Members Morgan Murray, Amy Slamp, Stephanie Jennings, Karen Petersen, Brittney Murphy (Not Pictured, Marion Head)

Best Life Graduates & Residents-Laura Causey, Lucy Lollar, Stephanie Jennings, Heather Allen, Gina Lopez, Candice Edwards, Jess Chenault

Ann Marie Lang, Cindi Ludwig

3rd Annual Best Life Fundraiser Best Life Recovery held its 3rd fundraiser event for Best Life Residences at AVIQ on October 12.

Executive Director Stephanie E. Jennings was on hand to greet guests. The event included music

by Miltowne Duo, performing with special musical guests; speakers, food and a raffle. Best Life Recovery is a nonprofit sober living home for women recovering from substance use disorder.

Best Life provides resources and a safe, supportive home environment at an affordable cost for women building a new life in recovery. n Photos by Steve Babin

Gwen Reed, Michael Burleson, Dawn Reed

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Think You Can’t Afford A Country Club Membership?

Think Again

27 Holes of Private Golf Olympic Style Pool/Swim Team Social Events Throughout The Year Family-Oriented Valley Hill Country Club “Spending time with my family on the weekend at the club is a great way to create memories. I particularly like golfing with my sons. It’s a great way to spend my day.” - Spike McRoy PGA Tour Member, 2002 B.C. Open Champion, Five time U.S. Open Competitor

8300 Valley Hill Drive Huntsville, AL 35802

256.883.0850

Private Tours Available

Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 5:45 PM | Von Braun Center, South Hall

Experience the pleasure of an evening full of canine charm.

Enjoy dinner, the presentation of very important dogs, and a fabulous auction, all while helping animals in need.

All proceeds benefit the Greater Huntsville Humane Society

For Online Reservations scan or go to thedogball2026.givesmart.com

Noel

44

Webster

Written by Katie Holt Photos by Steve Babin

Noel Webster is a music industry professional who lives and works in Huntsville.

Can you tell me about your background in the music industry?

I’m a singer-songwriter, musician, and producer. In 1999, I bought the Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and put it on the National Register. Mark Neil and I produced the Black Keys’ Brothers album there. It won three Grammys and went platinum.

You’ve worked with legendary acts and on some very interesting projects. Are there any behind-the-scenes

moments from your touring days that still stick with you?

I noticed the bigger the acts, the more legendary they were, the kinder they were. Just good people. They’re all very eccentric, but they’re all very good at their craft.

You were away from the area for a while, then returned to establish a private music studio in South Huntsville. What was returning to the Rocket City like?

I originally moved here in 1979 when I was a little kid. I sold the studio in Muscle Shoals in 2014 because I wanted to come back to Huntsville.

CENTERSTAGE The whole place is just lit up with sunshine. It’s relaxing, it’s comfortable.

It’s almost like you’re on a mountain. It’s just a different environment where artists feel comfortable. It’s like they’re coming to a friend’s home, and they’re relaxed when they work here.

What work are you most proud of that you have completed in Huntsville?

I built the first commercial, professional recording studio for a university in the state, at UAH. Also, The Red Clay Strays came here, and I mixed an album, “Moment of Truth,” for them. In 12 days, I produced, mixed, mastered it.

Do you have a favorite music venue in Huntsville, either one where you’ve performed or one where you enjoy watching shows?

I used to like The Kaffeeklatsch. That was just a really great hang, and I used to play there all the time. I also worked at the Von Braun Civic Center for about 10 years. I watched that building hang in there and get rebuilt again. It was always fun playing there at the Playhouse.

I also like the Sports Page Lounge and Deli because they have live bands. I like to see when my friends are out playing. n

I brought all my equipment back here, and I basically moved back to my old neighborhood. I was looking and found this place in a cul-de-sac, facing the mountains.

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Alison Collins, Chad Looser

Carnival Of Giving Committee

Isaiah 41:10 Foundation’s Carnival of Giving The Isaiah 41:10 Foundation hosted its 7th annual Carnival of Giving on September 25 at the Event Center at Roto Rooter. The Foundation raises money to support families going through childhood cancer, as well as research to find a cure. The event was filled with fun, games, a silent auction, food and entertainment. To date the Foundation has raised and distributed over $900,000 in support of its mission. n Dennis & Lacey Dean

Tyler & Jessica Clift, Kristen & Kevin Zurmuehlen

Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings

Will Ford, Abigail Green, Lillie Harmon, Ashley Morris

Isaiah 41:10 Foundation Board

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Debbie Pierce, Emily Ragan

Our Team.

Your Partner.

David Brown

Residential Real Estate

Stephen Norris Retail

George Cannon

Commercial Banking

Brittany Toth

Private Banking

Will Landess Mortgage

S erving the Greater Huntsville and North Alabama area, Trustmark offers comprehensive solutions – from small business to complex commercial and corporate banking, as well as personal and private banking services.

Our team, led by a local senior management group with over 130 years of combined experience, provides the expertise and service you can trust to meet all your financial needs.

We welcome the opportunity to be your partner, learn more at trustmark.com/huntsville.

HUNTSVILLE AREA LOCATIONS

HUNTSVILLE

HUNTSVILLE

ATHENS

ATHENS

MADISON

FLORENCE

118 Jefferson Street S Huntsville, AL 35801 256-535-6000

2021 Cecil Ashburn Drive SE Huntsville, AL 35802 256-213-4800

111 E Market Street Athens, AL 35611 256-216-1252

22236 US-72 E Athens, AL 35613 256-771-7820

12050 County Line Road Madison, AL 35756 256-233-5884

212A North Court Street Florence, AL 35630 256-765-0155

(MORTGAGE ONLY)

Susan Klingel 48

SPOTLIGHT

F

or more than three decades, Susan Klingel, the executive director at The Arc Madison County Inc., has devoted her life to making a difference in the lives of thousands of individuals in North Alabama.

In the late 1950s, the Arc of Madison County was founded by a group of parents seeking assistance and guidance for their children with disabilities. Today, the organization champions advocacy, acceptance, and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental support needs.

During her time with the Arc, Klingel has watched the organization she champions shift to prioritize more services that empower individuals to live, work, and engage alongside their broader community.

“I’ve seen the program evolve a lot throughout these years. Changes in different types of services for people with disabilities, moving more from segregated types of services to more community-based sources,” Klingel said.

The Arc offers an extensive list of resources for all levels of interaction, ranging from guided employment, residential services, early intervention, a pediatric outpatient center, an autism clinic, and more.

Klingel reflected on how people outside the field sometimes view her career through a lens of sadness, not realizing the joy and progress she witnesses every day in the people she helps.

“A lot of people talk about, oh, that’s such a sad career. It’s really not, because for the people we serve, the small accomplishments are major accomplishments,” Klingel said.

She continued, “We think about their abilities and how we can focus on them and help that person to become as independent as possible.”

Klingel said her perspective on the work was shaped early in her career by someone who left a lasting imprint on her life. “The most impactful person in my career was my first boss in Georgia.

She had adopted several children with disabilities, and she came at it as a parent, making me understand that this isn’t just a job, it’s a whole lot more than that,” she shared.

When asked what Madison County’s response has been to Arc’s programs and supporting individuals with disabilities, Klingel said the Huntsville area has been incredibly welcoming and encouraging.

“From nonprofits to elected officials to local companies, we have an extremely supportive community. I’m very fortunate to be in an area where we can provide those opportunities for the people that we serve, because of that,” she said.

The Arc is currently working on some exciting projects, including expanding its autism diagnostic services and a credentialing program. The credentialing program will help individuals with disabilities obtain certifications to work in fields such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning or manufacturing.

Klingel also gave high praise to her staff, noting how they have been crucial to the organization’s success, including helping them win the ARC of the United States Innovation Award for their autism services.

“I have amazing staff, willing to take risks and be innovative to provide new and different services,” Klingel said.

Klingel’s passion shone as she spoke about how much she loved her job. She said that as long as she can bring hope and support to the individuals her organization serves, she wants to continue in her role, “As long as I’m able to make a difference, I want to keep doing what I’m doing.” n Written by Katie Holt

Photos by Steve Babin

49

Lynn Troy, Melissa Thompson

Kim & Brandon Block

Brandon McCaghren, Christina Gray, Rebecca & Shane Goodwin

Karen Petersen, Brittany & GW Boon

Norm & Kathi Tew, Rey & Cynthia Almodovar, Bob & Phylis Baron, Penny & Jay Billings

Summit on Philanthropy The 16th annual Summit on Philanthropy was held on October 30 at the Von Braun Center.

The event serves to celebrate and inspire local generosity, including honoring the recipients of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville’s Community Philanthropy Awards. This award is presented annually to honor an individual, family or organization that exemplifies the spirit of generosity in the community. This year’s Community Philanthropy Award Winner, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, was inducted into the guild of givers. n Photos by Steve Babin

Hank Isenberg, Rhonda Gilyard

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Join us for Huntsville’s premier event of the season!

Gala 2026

The Annual Gala is a multifaceted event featuring three unique experiences, each crafted to captivate a diverse audience.

Tuesday, February 24

Gala Luncheon

$150/pp or $1,600/table of 8

Thursday, February 26

Black Tie Dinner and Live Auction

$350/pp | Benefactor & Advocate $500/pp

Saturday, February 28

Cocktail Party and Silent Auction $175/pp Gala tickets on sale January 27, 2026.

Featured Artist CATIE RADNEY

Catie Radney is a Southern-born, internationally collected artist known for her raw, layered compositions that explore the blurry line between the seen and the felt.

Working across painting, drawing, and mixed media, her work is rooted in deep emotional honesty and intuitive process.

Buy Now. Take Later.

In the weeks leading up to the Gala, the Museum will display an array of silent auction items including art, trips, parties and treasures. These items will be available for immediate purchase, allowing patrons to secure their favorite pieces before the main events and take them home afterward.

Downtown Huntsville | hsvmuseum.org | 256.535.4350

Kurt Scheidker, Samantha Maynard

Kim Moody, Suzanne O’Connor, Tammy Robertson, Michelle Slaton

Whitley McNew, Diana Scheidker, Sarah Hereford, Willie Corlew, Hollie Beaver, Amy Goddard, Jordan Lawson

Robbie Wall Hallisey, Nancy & Richard Van Valkenburgh

Debbie Baughn, Audrey McDade, Ann Buffaloe

Community Ballet Awards Community Ballet Association held its annual awards dinner honoring arts volunteerism October 1 at The Ledges. The Virginia Hammill Simms (VHS) Award was established in 1968.

Nominees were Willie Corlew, Amy Goddard, Sarah Hereford and Diana Scheidker. The Katherine and Richard Lester (KRL) Award, for ages 40 and under, was created in 2015.

Nominees were Hollie Beaver, Whitley McNew and Jordan Lawson. Mike Chappell served as emcee, with Ron Roberts as keynote speaker. Sarah Hereford was the recipient of the VHS award. Hollie Beaver was the KRL winner. CBA encourages all nonprofits to nominate for the 2026 awards. Nominations open in spring. n Photos by Steve Babin Lain Littleton, Erin Roberts

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Rated Best New Event Venue in Huntsville thevenueatoakplace

the Venue at Oak Place

808 Maysville Rd Huntsville, AL • 256-945-7309 • oakplacehsv@gmail.com • www.thevenueatoakplace.com

Gail Fay, Freeda Vest, Dale Rhoades

Richard & Nancy Van Valkenburgh

Andrea Garcia, Julie Lockwood

Lizzy Chandler, Vicki Van Valkenburgh

Valerie Chandler, Keyke Reed

Dr. Rob & Linda Akenhead, Dr. Dorothy Huston, Diane & Jim Reynolds

Van Valkenburgh Wilkinson Celebrates 40 Years in Business Van Valkenburgh Wilkinson Properties celebrated 40 years of serving North Alabama on October 2, 2025. What began in 1985 with Nancy Van Valkenburgh opening the doors of her real estate company expanded when Richard Van Valkenburgh merged his financial planning business into the firm. It has since grown into a multi-generational business, incorporating the Van Valkenburgh’s daughters and granddaughters. Nancy said, “Thank you to all our clients, customers, friends and family who have supported us along the way.” n

Photos by Steve Babin Kathleen DeFrancesco, Paula Mahalik

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HUNTSVILLE EVENT MAGAZINE

Celebrating 40 Years of Serving North Alabama

SPECIALIZING IN FINE HOMES AND HISTORIC PROPERTIES THROUGHOUT NORTH ALABAMA On October 13, 1985, a simple newspaper ad marked the beginning of a dream. It ran in the Huntsville Times, just after Nancy opened the doors of her real estate firm in a modest office on Gallatin Street. Back then, she was both the broker and the sole agent—driven by determination, integrity, and a deep love for her community. At her side was her mother, the indomitable Sibyl Wilkinson, who managed the office with grace, grit, and unwavering belief in Nancy’s vision. Soon partner, Richard Van Valkenburgh, merged his financial planning business into the firm.

What began as a three-person operation has since grown into a multi-generational business. Over the years, new agents have joined the team (including Nancy’s own daughters and granddaughters), each bringing their own strengths while upholding the family values that shaped the firm from day one.

Much has changed in North Alabama since 1985. Huntsville has grown, neighborhoods have evolved, and the real estate industry has transformed. But through it all, one thing has remained constant: our belief in the power of personal connection. Providing thoughtful, attentive service isn't just our promise, it’s our legacy.

We are honored to serve the people of North Alabama, just as we have for nearly four decades, and we look forward to helping the next generation find their place to call home.

204 GATES AVENUE SE

HUNTSVILLE

256.539.0505

vvwrealtor.com

2026 Gothic Guild

Victorian Cotillion Club Members The Gothic Guild is pleased to announce that 40 young ladies will participate in the 2026 Victorian Cotillion Club, a program sponsored by The Gothic Guild.

The Victorian Cotillion Club was chartered by The Gothic Guild in 1985. Each year, members are given five weeks of instruction emphasizing the timeless social graces that continue to befit today’s lifestyle. Social activities of the Victorian Cotillion season will include a formal Mother-Daughter tea, a formal dinner at Valley Hill Country Club, and a Father-Daughter luncheon at The Ledges. The Victorian Cotillion Dinner Dance will be held at the VBC Saturn Ballroom on March 14, 2026.

The members of the Victorian Cotillion Club must be enrolled as a sophomore in a high school in Madison County. Other criteria for selection include a good academic record and a demonstration of leadership through participation in school, church, social, and civic activities.

The purpose of the Gothic Guild is to promote the cultural, educational, and historical preservation of Huntsville and Madison County. Proceeds from this year’s events will benefit the Huntsville Pilgrimage Association.

The following are the 2026 Victorian Cotillion Club members, the schools they attend, and the names of their parents: Lola Grace Amos, daughter of Dr. & Mrs. Tyler Mark Amos Whitesburg Christian Academy

Elizabeth Millar Hays, daughter of Ms. Jane Elizabeth Hays & Mr. Michael Paul Knox Randolph School

Olivia Rae Santiago, daughter of Colonel Juan Ramon Santiago, Jr. & Mrs. Santiago Huntsville High School

Amelia Kathryn Bains, daughter of Dr. & Mrs. David Gilbert Bains Randolph School

Elizabeth Vaughn Holtkamp, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. James Owen Holtkamp Huntsville High School

Elena Lily Schreiber, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jeremy Lynn Schreiber Huntsville High School

Madeline Grace Bawcom, daughter of Dr. & Mrs. Brad Anthony Bawcom Whitesburg Christian Academy

Anna Louise Howard, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Randall Howard, Jr. Madison Academy

Brantley Kate Simmons, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. James William Simmons Grissom High School

Savannah Grace Cram, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Travis Jay Cram Randolph School

Anna Kathryn Jones, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Charles Harrison Jones, Sr. Huntsville High School

Avery Juliette Skinner, daughter of Dr. & Mrs. Daniel Edward Skinner III Randolph School

Bailey Grace Curtis, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan Matthew Criswell & Mr. & Mrs. Robert Roy Curtis Whitesburg Christian Academy

Hadley Grace Kent, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Shawn Lee Kent - Madison Academy

Sydney Elizabeth Smith, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jonathan David Smith Westminster Christian Academy

Caroline Corrine Daniel, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Brent William Daniel Huntsville High School Emily Harper Derrick, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Barry Robert Derrick Randolph School Sloan Margaret Dill, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Laurence Dill IV Huntsville High School Tessa Grace Dollman, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John William Dollman IV Huntsville High School Eleanor Anderson Dunham, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jason Earl Dunham Huntsville High School Hayden Maddux Dunnavant, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Neil Dunnavant Randolph School Meredith Bennett Garrison, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Donald Cade Garrison Huntsville High School Grace Ellen Handley, daughter of Dr. & Mrs. Jerry Paul Handley Huntsville High School 56

Madelyn Rose Kimball, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Brian Carleton Kimball Huntsville High School Maggie Kate Layne, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Christopher Edward Layne Westminster Christian Academy Camila Mora Ludwig, daughter of Ms. Monica Victoria Ludwig & Mr. Chad Andrew Ludwig - Huntsville High School Mary Cecelia McClung, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Michael Dawson McClung Huntsville High School Sarah Jordan Moffett, daughter of Dr. & Mrs. Wesley Burton Moffett Whitesburg Christian Academy Addison Kate Pearson, daughter of Mrs. Jennifer Pearson & Mr. Adam Todd Pearson Huntsville High School Hannah Ryan Pillsbury, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Michael Ryan Pillsbury - Randolph School Elizabeth Shields Pope, daughter of The Doctors Elizabeth & Jonathan Edward Pope Whitesburg Christian Academy Haleigh Kate Rowe, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. James David Bishop Huntsville High School

Mary Elizabeth Speaks, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Charles William Speaks Huntsville High School Sela Lee Steele, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Joshua Lee Steele Huntsville High School Liv Katarina Stenberg, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Mattias Gunnar Stenberg Huntsville High School Natasha Estelle Tatsas, daughter of The Drs. Amanda & Alon Tatsas Randolph School Melanie Jane Morris Tucker, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Robert Luther Tucker IV Huntsville High School Hazel Jane Walton, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. William Todd Walton Huntsville High School Elizabeth Bryn Watson, daughter of Mr. & Mrs. John Andrew Watson III Madison Academy Hanna Corrine Wester, daughter of Dr. & Mrs. Douglas John Wester, Jr. Huntsville High School

1st Row: Lola Grace Amos, Amelia Kathryn Bains, Madeline Grace Bawcom, Savannah Grace Cram, Bailey Grace Curtis, Caroline Corrine Daniel, Emily Harper Derrick 2nd Row: Sloan Margaret Dill, Tessa Grace Dollman, Eleanor Anderson Dunham, Hayden Maddux Dunnavant, Meredith Bennett Garrison, Grace Ellen Handley

1st Row: Elizabeth Millar Hays, Elizabeth Vaughn Holtkamp, Anna Louise Howard, Anna Kathryn Jones, Hadley Grace Kent, Madelyn Rose Kimball, Maggie Kate Layne 2nd Row: Camila Mora Ludwig, Mary Cecelia McClung, Addison Kate Pearson, Hannah Ryan Pillsbury, Elizabeth Shields Pope, Haleigh Kate Rowe

1st Row: Olivia Rae Santiago, Elena Lily Schreiber, Brantley Kate Simmons, Avery Juliette Skinner, Sydney Elizabeth Smith, Mary Elizabeth Speaks, Sela Lee Steele 2nd Row: Liv Katarina Stenberg, Natasha Estelle Tatsas, Melanie Jane Morris Tucker, Hazel Jane Walton, Elizabeth Bryn Watson, Hanna Corrine Wester, Sarah Jordan Moffett

Photos by KWaldrup Studio & Design

57

ROCKET CITY REWIND

The Humes Legacy

in Huntsville’s Industrial Dawn Written by Mike Easterling

It is often determined that visionaries throughout history were ahead of their time, but Captain Milton Humes and his wife were very much “of their time” as Huntsville’s elite.

Mountain. Already a captain, he was elevated to major for gallantry on the field at Chickamauga. The former sobriquet followed him into civilian life.

One of the most prominent attorneys in Alabama and known throughout the South, the Captain became a leading player in creating the North Alabama Improvement Company (NAIC) that led Huntsville’s industrial pursuits at a time when agriculture ruled Southern economies.

Humes (1844-1908) was a notable lawyer, a shrewd real estate investor, railroad company associate, state house representative and was known as the father of the public road system in Madison County.

After the war, Humes lived with his sister, Mrs. L. B. Sheffey, in Huntsville before returning to Virginia to attend law school at Washington and Lee. He came back to Huntsville after graduating and married Elizabeth (nicknamed Ellelee) in 1870.

the City Infirmary, a precursor to Huntsville Hospital.

The Humes were passionate about the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which would grant women the right to vote.

Ellelee’s sister, Alberta Chapman Taylor, invited suffragist pioneers Susan B. Anthony and Carrie Chapman Catt to speak at Huntsville City Hall in 1895, prompting Captain Humes to establish the Huntsville Equal Suffrage Association. Ellelee (1850-1920) died one month before the U.S. Congress ratified the 19th Amendment, ensuring women the right to vote.

Milton Humes became ill and died of a fall from the second floor of his home in late December 1908. n

Humes and other prominent Huntsville figures joined New York’s O’Shaughnessy brothers in the startup NAIC that changed the trajectory of Huntsville. Trevanion Barlow Dallas, better known as T.B., joined the crew as a company executive. The group’s first project was building Hotel Monte Sano, an exclusive resort atop the mountain.

Humes and his wife, Elizabeth Chapman Humes, were community-driven philanthropists.

They liked to socialize at Abingdon Place, their home on Meridian Street across from what would become Lincoln Mill.

“He’s everywhere in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century,’’ said Donna Castellano, executive director of the Historical Huntsville Foundation. “He was part of the investor circle that recruited (textile mill magnate) Trevanion Dallas to Huntsville.

Like many Huntsville settlers in the 19th century, Milton Humes was a Virginian born in Abingdon. When the Civil War began, he enlisted in the Confederate Army and was wounded at Chickamauga and Kennessaw 58

The NAIC soon turned its attention to manufacturing, establishing four cotton mills that transformed Huntsville into a regional textile hub: Dallas, Madison Spinning, Merrimack, and Lowe. Dallas Mill was the first to open in 1891, followed by Madison Spinning in 1900, a facility later renamed Abingdon and eventually Lincoln.

Meanwhile, Humes co-founded Monte Sano Dairy, located in a pocket of northeast Huntsville in the valley beneath the mountain.

The dairy was home to Lily Flagg, the city’s legendary cow.

Among the civic projects Humes helped finance was the paving around the public square. Ellelee was instrumental in establishing

Photo of Abingdon Place, Allen, Linda Bayer (2006) “Our Vanishing Heritage,” The Historic Huntsville Quarterly: Vol. 32: No. 3, Article 4.

Humes Military Enlistment/Discharge Rank, War Department. The Adjutant General’s Office. Retrieved from the Digital Public Library of America, http://catalog.archives.gov/id/67375637 Rendering of Abingdon Place, Humes, Elizabeth Chapman (republished 1989) Changing Huntsville 1890-1899, Used with permission of Historic Huntsville Foundation

Tuesday, February 3, 2026 Drinks and networking: 5 - 6 p.m.

Program: 6 - 7 p.m.

Register today: https://donate.hudsonalpha.org/TinyGenes25

Hope for Rare Diseases

Attendance is Free

Unlock the mysteries of genetics at this TED talk-style evening where personal stories and groundbreaking science reveal how the discovery of tiny DNA changes is transforming the diagnosis, understanding, and hope for rare diseases.

The Belle at Stovehouse 3414 Governors Drive, Suite 310 Huntsville, AL 35805

Join one of AL ABAMA’S BEST!

Visit hh.careers to launch your search for a more rewarding future.

Whatever your expertise, opportunity awaits at Huntsville Hospital Health System.

HUNTSVILLE HOSPITAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Want to know what’s going on in Huntsville?

eventhuntsville.com

It’s what’s happening in Huntsville

Submit YOUR event online to let Huntsville know what’s going on.

Huntsville Happenings Written by Jennifer Moore, Pres./CEO Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Rocket City does NOT slow down in the winter. And when it’s cold outside, it’s the perfect time to browse our incredible museums and entertainment venues.

If you’re looking for arts and entertainment, the Huntsville Museum of Art is filled with exhibitions that feature works from their permanent collection, along with outstanding traveling exhibitions. Be sure to catch Days of Punk – Photographs by Michael Grecco before it closes on February 1, and Sea to Shining Sea before its final day on February 22. Right around the corner, the Broadway Theatre League has several fantastic shows this season. You can enjoy Hadestown, The Sound of Music, Choir of A Man, & Juliet, and Mrs. Doubtfire performances in the center’s Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, all in early 2026. Get your tickets now at www.broadwaytheatreleague.org for the best seats before they sell out.

If you have family and friends in town, or just need to get out of the house for a while, it’s a great time to explore the exhibits at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (and the kid favorite Spark!Lab), EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, or Signals - Museum of Information Explosion.

Looking for sports action? The Huntsville Havoc has several hockey games on their home ice in the Von Braun Center’s Propst Arena. Then it will be time to buy your tickets for the Huntsville City Football Club at Wicks Family Field and the Rocket City Trash Pandas, who will be starting their sixth season at Toyota Field in April, so mark your calendar now.

Not afraid of the cold? Winter brings its own beauty to the Huntsville Botanical Garden and Burritt on the Mountain—bundle up and take a stroll through gorgeous scenery while crowds are low.

2026 is a very special year for the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB)! In addition to being the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation, it marks the 50th Anniversary of the CVB. We’ll be celebrating throughout the year and ending with a very special event in December.

In February, join us as we celebrate the attractions, art, events, activities, and people who make this such an awesome place with the #iHeartHsv campaign. Visit our website to show and tell us what you love about the area. We will be sharing what you love, as well as lots of great info on what makes our community special and unique.

We’re also thrilled to be hosting numerous regional and national conferences and meetings, as well as several outstanding sporting events. Just a few coming this year: The 2026 AI Symposium, AUSA Global Force Symposium & Exposition, 42nd International Symposium on Child Abuse, Space & Missile Defense Symposium, and Conference USA Basketball Championships.

The events and activities mentioned above are just a few of the dozens scheduled for January, February, and March! Visit our website (www.huntsville.org, or use the QR code below) for updates and info on additional events and activities—and don’t forget to use our Passport Coupons to help stretch your budget. n

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Parting Shot

Photo by Dennis Keim

Burritt Mansion at Burritt on the Mountain Attracted to the healthful spring waters and mountain air, Dr. William Henry Burritt chose to build his retirement home on 167 acres atop Monte Sano, known as Round Top Mountain. Construction on the house began in 1934. The home’s unique shape provided magnificent views and vast amounts of natural light.

Having no heirs, Dr. Burritt left the mansion and surrounding property to the City of Huntsville to become the city’s first museum. -burrittonthemountain.com

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Dennis Keim is a nationally recognized corporate and editorial photographer based in Huntsville with over 25 years of professional experience producing creative imagery for ad agencies, corporations and trade organizations. Keim was a career aerospace and underwater photojournalist with NASA at the Marshall Space Flight Center. After leaving NASA in 2000, he opened dK-Studio (www.dk-studio.com) and began a full-time commercial operation. Keim’s dk-Studio maintains a web-based selection of lifestyle and travel stock photography.

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