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MAKE YOUR First Impression LAST
LONGER THAN THE First
Date.
Whether you're meeting someone new, interviewing for a dream job, or simply showing up as your best self, confidence starts with a healthy smile.
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Dr. Sonya L. Wintzell
Photo by Dennis Keim
A Letter from the Publisher
Welcome to summer, Huntsville!
As I write this letter, the sun is shining brightly outside my window, although the forecast is calling for yet another round of rain this weekend. It has certainly been a wet summer so far. While our lawns, gardens, and flowers have never looked better, the combination of rain and Alabama humidity has made for some steamy days. Still, summer is one of my favorite times of year as our community comes alive with events, festivities, and opportunities to connect.
In this issue, we are excited to introduce Huntsville’s Most Eligible 2026. We asked you, our readers, to nominate the outstanding single men and women in our community, and once again, you delivered. The individuals featured in these pages represent a diverse group of accomplished, kind, and interesting people from all walks of life. Some have never married, some are divorced, and some have experienced the loss of a spouse, but all share a common desire to find someone special to join them on life’s journey.
If you happen to be single and looking to make a meaningful connection, we invite you to join us at our Huntsville’s Most Eligible reception this August. It’s always a fun evening filled with great conversations, new friendships, and perhaps even the beginning of something more. Be sure to follow our social media channels for event details and announcements.
Meanwhile, event season has been in full swing across North Alabama. Our photographers have been busy capturing the people, celebrations, and moments that make our community such a special place to call home. We hope you enjoy seeing both familiar faces and new ones throughout this issue.
As always, I encourage you to support the advertisers featured in these pages. Their partnership allows us to continue sharing the stories and events that make Huntsville so remarkable. When you visit them, please let them know you saw them in EVENT Magazine.
Thank you for reading, and I hope you enjoy the issue.
Stay cool, Huntsville!
Todd Stephenson President/Publisher
President/Publisher | Todd Stephenson
Editor | Lori Boatfield
Writers | Katie Holt
Noah Logan
Jennifer Moore
Graphic Design/Website | Tina Simon
Graphic Design/Creative Director | Patty Satterly
Additional Graphic Design | Lisa DiVito Lenderman
Amy Pearson
Lead Photographer | Steve Babin
Photographers | Stephanie E. Jennings
Dennis Keim
K Waldrup Studio & Design
Rich Ortiz
Carlton Rice
Jeff White
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.
Celebrating 33 Years
Summer is a season of possibilities! Trips, pool days, cookouts and long weekends are on the horizon. In this issue, we’re embracing it all with excitement and anticipation as we reveal Huntsville’s Most Eligible for 2026. We can’t wait for you to see this year’s group!
As Huntsville continues to grow, so does the strength and character of the community, reflected by the people and organizations making a lasting difference. The shared spirit of generosity is everywhere. We shine our Spotlight on Joanna White, director of The Apollo Coalition, which funds start-up tech accelerators and partners with local founders for community outreach events. At Centerstage is artist Bob Baker, who not only creates but instructs and inspires developing artists.
This event season has been abuzz with memorable moments, and we’ve been delighted to capture them – from Disco Nights to the Gothic Guild Victorian Cotillion, Raise the Roof and the Huntsville Heart Ball and so many more. These events raised funds and awareness for worthy causes all over the area.
We could not put this publication into your hands without our advertising partners. They are the reason we can highlight the nonprofits whose service and dedication strengthen our community. Shop for your next house or car with them. Find your flooring and furniture in their showrooms. Call them for your remodeling project. And don’t forget to tell them you saw them right here in Huntsville EVENT Magazine.
Have a great summer!
Lori Boatfield Editor
Passion for helping people feel confident and connected.
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Painted Violins Unveiled
The Painted Violin Society hosted the unveiling of the Crescen-Dough Auction 2026 painted violins on March 5 in the lobby of ServisFirst Bank downtown. Violins were painted by local artists Yuri Ozaki, Monte Perry, and Lee Anne Parker Smith. The event was presented by ServisFirst Bank. The Painted Violin Society is a collaborative effort between the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra and the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild to provide funds for the HSO’s free family concert. n
Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings
Martha & Steve Brouse
Jeanne & Don Rizzardi
Carlen Williams, Dana Lusk, Ron Adams, Anne Coffey, Joanna Rouse, Beth Zinn
Nancy Colin, Cathy Scholl
Carrie Tate, Natasha Parker
Richard & Nancy VanValkenburgh, Mary Ann & Gene Ezell
Jacob Abbott, Lisa Bryan, Dana Lusk, Mae Adams, Ann Coffey, Joanna Rouse, Mary Kate Moore
Lee Anne Parker Smith, Michael Timberlake, Patti Thornton
Huntsville Heart Ball
The 2026 Huntsville Heart Ball, held April 11 at the Saturn Ballroom, benefited the American Heart Association’s lifesaving mission. Led by Heart Ball Chair Jada Leo, CEO of The Westmoreland Company, the event raised more than $850,000, with top sponsors Woody Anderson Ford, The Westmoreland Company, Torch Technologies, and Yulista. Lynn Troy and N. Sherri Squyres, M.D., were recognized as Heart of the Community and Physician of the Year recipients, along with Penny Kruse as Survivor Spotlight. n
Photos by Rich Ortiz
Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Chris Hutton
Josh Till, Dr. Sherrie Squyres, Claude & Carolyn Snoddy, Lizzi Willicott Ryan & Kelly Murray
Kenneth Bethune, Allie Schamburg, Tyler & Kerenza Mann, Dr. Jennifer & Eric Sholes
Stephanie Holmes, Brady Porter
Penny & Eric Kruse
Kenneth Bethune, Allie Schamburg, Chad & Jennifer Vickers, Kaitlynn & Amy Roark
Geoff & Melinda VanZoeren
Cornelious & Jennie Adams, Mack & Ruby Ford, Felicia Brown, Bettye Showers, Linda & Frank Jackson Jr.
Joe & Melony Yearta, Alicia & Joe Ryan
DeMarco & Melissa McClain
Corey & Jessica Scott
Angel & Skip Stinson, Katiya McKinney, Lynn Marshall
Habitat Hosts Raise the Roof
Raise the Roof benefit celebration for Habitat for Humanity of the River Valley was held on March 10 to help Habitat for Humanity serve even more families in the community through affordable home ownership opportunities and critical home repairs. The event was made possible by The Schrimsher Company as Foundation Partner. Committee chairs included Angel Stinson, Kathi Tew, and Lynn Troy. The organization presented the Volunteerism Award, Legacy Award and Community Partner of the Year Award. n
Photos by Rich Ortiz
Jeremy Foulks, Randy Schrimsher, Cooper Schrimsher, Austin Schrimsher
Erin Burnett, Jason Sullivan, Jeremy Foulks, Beth Sippel
Laura Hodge, Michael Kirkpatrick
Ruchi Singhal, Marilyn Butler
Sonya Enfinger, Liz Brinton
Jenny McGuire, Angel Stinson, Jeremy Foulks, Kathi Tew, Shelle Anne Neupert
Jeremy Foulks, Lynn Troy, Phyllis & Bob Baron, Kathi Tew
Essence Nesbit, Melanie Forbes
EVENT SERIES
AUG. 18TH Southern Solutions: Plant Science as an Economic Engine Mars Music Hall, 5:30 PM
SEP. 15TH Future Proof: The Science of Healthy Aging - Part 1
A 3-Part Aging Series Featuring Dr. Neil Lamb & Kelly East
The Jackson Center, 5:30 PM
OCT. 13TH Future Proof: The Science of Healthy Aging - Part 2
A 3-Part Aging Series Featuring Dr. Neil Lamb & Kelly East
The Jackson Center, 5:30 PM
NOV. 17TH Future Proof: The Science of Healthy Aging - Part 3
A 3-Part Aging Series Featuring Dr. Neil Lamb & Kelly East
The Jackson Center, 5:30 PM
hudsonalpha.org/event-series
Join hosts Dr. Sarah Sharman and Chris Powell as they dive into the world of DNA and the incredible science happening here at HudsonAlpha, where tiny discoveries tell big stories.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts or scan the QR code!
hudsonalpha.org/tinyexpeditions
Studio 60 Spring Brunch
Studio 60 joined with friends to enjoy brunch with the experts at In Bloom Floral Design on April 10. Proceeds benefited Studio 60’s Center for Adult Care program. In Bloom’s Mark Kimbrough and Ron Cooper shared tips and techniques for the latest floral trends and spring gardening as well as the history of the May Basket and how to make them. The event was presented by Lexus of Huntsville. n
Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings
Angela Williams, Billy Tapscott, Charlotte Hudson, Emily Anderson, Kasey Ferguson, Susan Livingston, Patty Smith
Angela Ohren, Matthew Vaughan
Gerri Forrest, Cherry Howell, Julie Grissom, Stephanie Hendon
Janet South, Sonja Enfinger
Sandy Acevedo, Julie Born
Robin Watson, Brandi Hernandez, Gerri Forrest, Julie Grissom, Lynn Ponzini
Growing Hope Casino Night
New Hope Children’s Clinic held its annual fundraiser, Growing Hope Casino Night, on March 27 at The Royal at Stovehouse. The night was filled with Las Vegas-style games compliments of Casino Knight, a live auction featuring a luxury vacation and Savannah Bananas tickets, a silent auction, great food and music. Proceeds benefited the New Hope Children’s Clinic, which was created to increase access to and provide comprehensive medical care for children in southeast Madison County and surrounding communities. n
Photos by Rich Ortiz
Gracie Whitten, Mary Kate Moore, Rachel Guthrie
Brandy Smith, Cindi Williamson, Kasey Helms
Lee & Natalie Holland, Debbie & Tommy Overcash, Tammie & Joe Dodson, Brenda Conville
Paul Killian, Libby Nord, Veronica Cram, Meridith Payne, Will Mason, Laura Hale, Maz Nuwayhid
Dr. Randy McClellen, Libby Nord, Bett & Dr. Clovis Pitchford
Amy Walczak, Mike Clark
Amy Manion, Cindi Williamson, Kara Saini
Rhonda Dailey, Danielle Damson, JoAnna & Kohler Damson
Matt McCutcheon, Meagan Owens, Mary Kate Moore, Rachel Guthrie
Breaking Ceilings. Building Community.
Kelli Powers Chairman of the Board
Advanced Life Spring Open House
Advanced Life Clinic held its Spring Open House – Masters Edition with a little par-tee on the green on April 2. Guests had the opportunity to tee up for their spring glow, master their confidence, and celebrate in a Masters-inspired atmosphere, complete with door prizes, refreshments and drinks. Exclusive open house specials included savings on injectables, skincare, laser treatments, wellness consultations and more. n
Photos by Rich Ortiz
Madison Collum, Mary Webb, Dr. Jennifer Sholes, Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Katie Colson, Kiley Alred, Lexi Wright
Jo Myers, Crystal Chamberlain, Dr. Jennifer Sholes
Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Chris Hutton
Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Sabrena Wood, Virginia Vatz
James Taylor, Kylie Winton
Carolyn Stephenson, Bailee Ursey, Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Crystal Chamberlain
Madison Collum, Kaleigh Patterson, Jessica Wilburn, Brandon Wilburn
Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Dr. Jennifer Sholes
Suzanne Currie, Ashley Ayers
Haley’s Flooring Hosts Tabs & Trends
Haley’s Flooring & Interiors partnered with event sponsor Building Plastics Inc. (BPI) on April 9, to socialize and discuss new and upcoming trends in interior design, specifically flooring, tile and countertops. Catered by Publix, flowers were by Davis Wholesale Florist,. “Tabs & Trends was a great opportunity for us to get everyone together in a relaxed setting and talk design, trends, and what’s new in the industry. Events like this remind us how strong and creative our local design community is,” said Michael Haley, Owner and CEO, Haley’s Flooring and Interiors. n
Kim Holland, Marie Burns, Beth Bollero, Mandy Scales, Susan Trousdale
Michael Haley, Adam Rogers
Brad Bossence, Traci Mason, Heather Juron
Iris Lockridge, Tyler Spano
Rob Dempsey, Ken Porter
Randall Ford, Misty Holden, Jeff Enzer, Rob Dempsey, Beth Bollero
Photos by Rich Ortiz
Gothic Guild Victorian Cotillion
The 2026 Victorian Cotillion Dinner Dance was Saturday, March 14, at the VBC’s Saturn Ballroom, culminating the events that make up the Victorian Cotillion Club, a program sponsored by The Gothic Guild. Club members receive instruction emphasizing the timeless social graces that continue to befit today’s lifestyle. Members must be sophomores in high school and at least 15 years of age, maintain a good academic record and demonstrate leadership through participation in school, church, social and civic activities. Proceeds from this year’s events will benefit the Huntsville Pilgrimage Association. n
HUNTSVILLE
Photos by Jeff White Group photo by KWaldrup Studio & Design
Scott & Lisa Moore
Olivia Reed, Elizabeth Jones, Tomalyn Dombrowski
Christie Harmon, Kellie Hensley, Stephanie Morris, Whitney Heaps, Chris Penney, Elizabeth Conner
Rhae Holtkamp, Andy & Sarah Lauren Kattos
Allyson Sanders, Lorielai Kolarik, Nikki Smith
Lori Handley, Leigh Ellyn Byars
row Maggie Kate Layne, Madelyn Rose Kimball, Hadley Grace Kent, Anna Kathryn Jones, Anna Louise Howard, Elizabeth Vaughn Holtkamp, Elizabeth Millar Hays, Grace Ellen Handley, Meredith Bennett Garrison, Hayden Maddux Dunnavant, Eleanor Anderson Dunham 2nd row Hanna Corrine Wester, Elizabeth Bryn Watson, Hazel Jane Walton, Melanie Jane Morris Tucker, Natasha Estelle Tatsas, Liv Katarina Stenberg, Sela Lee Steele, Mary Elizabeth Speaks, Sydney Elizabeth Smith, Mary Cecelia McClung 3rd row Avery Juliette Skinner, Brantley Kate Simmons, Elena Lily Schreiber, Olivia Rae Santiago, Haleigh Kate Rowe, Elizabeth Shields Pope, Hannah Ryan Pillsbury, Addison Kate Pearson, Sarah Jordan Moffett 4th row Camila Mora Ludwig, Lola Grace Amos, Amelia Kathryn Bains, Madeline Grace Bawcom, Savannah Grace Cram, Bailey Grace Curtis, Caroline Corrine Daniel, Emily Harper Derrick, Sloan Margaret Dill, Tessa Grace Dollman
Brenda Bates, Amy Layne, Keith Bates, Jessica & Chris Leven
Bob Ludwig, Monica Ludwig, Ashley White, Cindi Ludwig
1st
Sarah Lauren Kattos, Monica Ludwig, Irma Tuder
Ted, Anna Beth & Amy Henrich
Huntsville’s
Seated Left to Right: Will Barnes, Roxana Olaru, Shelby Stricklin, Dr. Leslie Barrilleaux, Lauren Cohen
Standing Left to Right: Caroline Cloud, Jayden Bowen, Stephanie Greene, Benjamin Sandell, Chris Thagard, Elliott Crute, PJ Sturdy
Most Eligible
Photos by Steve Babin Venue: Trilogy Hotel Downtown Huntsville
PJ Sturdy Will Barnes
Jayden Bowen
Lauren Cohen
Roxana Olaru Elliot Crute
TIMELESS FINISHES. ELEVATED HOMES.
Walls, trim, and ceilings wrapped in Sherwin-Williams Alabaster, paired with cabinetry in Porpoise for depth and contrast. A timeless palette that lets the architecture speak for itself.
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR PAINTING
CABINET REFINISHING
LIMEWASH • HISTORIC RESTORATION
Stephanie Greene Benjamin Sandell
Dr. Leslie Barrilleaux
Caroline Cloud
Shelby Stricklin
Chris Thagard
First Horizon Bank is bringing together Huntsville’s most influential leaders on our new Advisory Board. This powerful alliance combines our strength with deep local insight to drive strategic growth and community impact. Together, we’re building the future of North Alabama.
Bob Baker
Written by Lori Boatfield
RobertRiddle Baker, Ohio/Alabama artist, divides his time between his studios in his hometown of New Richmond, Ohio and his home in Huntsville, Al. Former student of Robert Fabe, University of Cincinnati, Baker is primarily self-taught and is found painting every day when time permits. His subject matter many times comes from his head with no reference subjects. He often uses recycled materials (such as frames) to display his work. He is currently showing his work at Railroad Station Antiques, Birds of a Feather in Huntsville and Good Fortune Shop in Decatur, The Creative Bee Gallery in New Richmond, Ohio and Gallery 1515 in Oklahoma City; as well as in hundreds of private collections.
What was your inspiration to become an artist?
My art may have begun as a child bored with the preacher’s sermon. To distract and calm me, my mother would give me her paycheck envelope and a pencil so I would draw. I was inspired by my grade school and high school art teachers, then later my professor at the University of Cincinnati.
What experiences shaped your career?
High school, then some college, decorating the mess hall in the Army in the mid 1960’s, owning an art gallery in Cocoa Beach, Fla., in the late 1960’s and doing outdoor art show events, later in the early 1980’s,
about a year of intensive watercolor painting, then after a long break back at it in 2019 painting almost daily, observation and study and other artists helping me refine.
What does your artistic work intend to communicate?
Memories before the world began to hold a cell phone and a mouse in each hand, memories of nature, the land, the ocean and a few attempts at abstract.
What would you like our readers to know about you?
That painting, the act of putting the brush to the surface of paper or canvas, to apply that pigment, that color, to a blank surface is the most mentally rewarding experience I can have on a daily basis. I try to paint every day.
What would you say to aspiring artists?
I’m of the opinion that anyone can paint, can create, what many can’t do is devote the time it takes to accomplish that creative effort. The more you paint, the better you will become. The more you study other people’s work, the better you will become. Copy and study the classics, the impressionists, the artists who have excelled at creating abstracts. Paint every day! Don’t be afraid to make mistakes! n
Photos by Steve Babin
Huntsville Ballet Guild Spring Soirée
The Huntsville Ballet Guild held its 5th Annual Spring Soiree on April 12 at the Huntsville Botanical Garden, benefiting the Huntsville Ballet School and Professional Company. Chaired by Ellis Vest and Amy Schmitz; Lauren Layton served as emcee. Flowers were arranged by Augusta Walker, Lauren Rowe and Whitney Painter; logo by Layne Sanders; and marketing by Amanda Elliot. The Soiree was made possible by numerous supporters, including Principal Sponsor, Pei Ling Charitable Trust; and Soloist Sponsors Loftin Holt Hall & Hargett LLP, and Alex Pols Morgan Stanley. n
Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings
Lynne Warnke, Kimberly Dickson, Cheryl Montgomery, Augusta Walker
Lauren Layton, Robin Seale
Staci-Jill Burnley, Lindsey Dunnavant, Alden Cayse, Amy Schmitz, Ellis Vest, Robin Seale, Dr. Meredith Roath
Robin Seale, Christy Bates, Jennifer Swobda
Phillip Otto, Rachel Butler-Otto
Summer McClung, Sonja Enfinger, Terry Davis
HUNTSVILLE HOSPITAL HEALTH SYSTEM
Merit Bank’s Masters Viewing Party
Merit Bank hosted its annual Masters Viewing party on April 10 at the Observatory Bar at the AC Hotel, to celebrate with the community. The event featured a spread of Mastersinspired bites and beverages catered by the hotel. “At Merit Bank, we believe the strongest relationships are built both inside and outside the office. This year’s Masters party gave us another opportunity to connect with our valued clients, trusted partners, and new friends while celebrating one of golf’s most iconic traditions,” said SVP Relationship Manager, Nick McKinney. n
Tracy Flesch, Nick McKinney, Brittney Shonk, Leo Gilliland, Will Heaps, Jordan Crow, Thomas Busby
Photos by Rich Ortiz
Leo Gilliland, Joe Yearta, Zane Drost
Melissa Chavez, Carolyn Stephenson, Brittney Shonk, Paula Mahalik, Melissa Hays, Ricia Garrard
Rachael Johannes, Hank Isenberg, Jillian Richard, Addy Baugher
Matthew Chandler, Lucas Altman-Gill, Chris Gregory
Brook & Thomas Busby, Jeremy Blair
Joanna White
SPOTLIGHT
Written by Katie Holt
WhileHuntsville’s growth is often measured in jobs, developments, and new residents, Joanna White sees another ingredient behind the city’s success: community.
As Managing Director of the Apollo Coalition, a nonprofit focused on building connections through culture and innovation, White spends her days bringing entrepreneurs, engineers, artists, students, musicians, and innovators together.
From startup accelerators and workforce development programs to festivals and public events, White describes the Coalition as a network of relationships, shared experiences, and trust that connect people across Huntsville.
“How do we help people enter both the innovative ecosystem, the tech ecosystem, and then arts and culture? How do we help them experience those things in lots of different ways? We believe that Huntsville’s resilience relies on a lot of things, but one of the biggest is just social capital,” White said.
The Apollo Coalition’s philosophy that collaboration across industries helps strengthen the city is reflected in many of its initiatives, including the future Innovation Campus at MidCity, a project White is particularly excited about.
The campus is designed as a gathering place for the region’s creative and technical talent.
“We’re creating a space for the best and the brightest in Huntsville and our region to come collaborate and build their ideas together,” White said.
The campus will be home to the gener8tor Tech Accelerator, funded by Innovate Alabama; the NextGenHSV high school AI product development program; and education programs focused on sound, production, and performance.
It will also feature flexible incubator offices, SCIF-enabled defense technology space, founder support services, shared events and collaboration facilities.
In addition to linking different industries and people together, White is passionate about community engagement.
She has witnessed the power of turning feedback into action throughout her decade with Arts Huntsville, involvement in multiple Huntsville mayoral campaigns, and her current work with the coalition.
“If you’re looking to create real community within your programs or your organizations, it comes from letting people share their thoughts and have a seat at the table and then actually putting into practice some of that feedback,” White said.
She also pointed out that while Huntsville’s growth is good, it’s important for city leaders and residents to continue promoting a ‘sticky culture’ to make the city a welcoming environment where upcoming generations want to stay and can thrive.
“As we graduate these brilliant students from A&M, UAH, Oakland, Drake State and Calhoun, we want them to stay here. We want them to feel like they can build their own dreams here or they can have their dream job in a company someone else has built here,” White said.
According to White, this means adding green space to the city and actively investing in local music, public art, indie restaurants and venues.
“It’s taking a place where people just live and work to a place where they play and create as well,” White said.
White continued, “So I think true vitality doesn’t just come from enticing a big company to move here, but I think it comes from building an environment where the people who are already here want to stay here too.” n
Photos by Jeff White
Huntsville Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame Induction
The Huntsville-Madison County Athletic Hall of Fame inducted its Class of 2026 on April 13 in the Saturn Ballroom, at the annual banquet presented by Huntsville Hospital Sports and The Orthopaedic Center. The inductees join more than 400 individuals who have made contributions and demonstrated excellence in athletics locally, regionally, nationally and globally. “We take great pride in our work and in recognizing the contributions of these individuals to their respective areas,” said past chairman Vann Pettaway. n
Photos by Rich Ortiz Honoree photo by Carlton Rice
Scott Theisen, Mark McCarter
Dr. David & Cathy Lee
Patsy Roberts, Cathy Lee, Renee Rush
Front Row Kimberly “Dee” Cummings, Toyin Augustus, Reggie Benson, Whitney Boggus, Mark Bechtel Second Row Jeremy Gordon, Stephanie Pinto, Jeffrey Hammonds, David Lee Back Row James Willis, Gwen Humphrey (representing late brother Donnie Humphrey), David Bell, Anthony Jones
Meredith & Blake Bentley
Frank & Sonya Smith
Disco Nights Benefits Enable Madison County
Enable Madison County, formerly CASA, hosted Disco Nights on April 16. Guests sparkled under the disco ball while supporting a mission that keeps older adults safe, independent, and thriving at home. Hosted by Master of Ceremonies Kenny Anderson, the event allowed attendees to boogie, browse the auction, mix, mingle and soak in a night on the town. Proceeds keep the mission spinning: supporting ramps, weatherization, and home safety repairs for aging seniors and the homebound across Madison County. n
Photos by Rich Ortiz
Fred & Ann Kepner, Karen & Tyler Hoagland
Lara & Bill Brown
Rachel Murie, Pam Chamness
Laura & Mark Olin, Annie Goodmon, April Goodmon, Ran & Christina Crump, Darin & Kelly Thomson
Sonya & Kenny Anderson
Jessica Sanders, Ann Kepner
Rocket City Wine Fest Grand Tasting
Rocket City Wine Fest held its Grand Tasting event on April 10 at EarlyWorks Museum’s Grand Hall, marking the first event for the inaugural festival as a complete wine lover’s experience. Guests had the chance to sip and swirl more than 100 wines from across the globe, as well as enjoy chef-curated bites, music and a silent auction. Renowned Master Sommelier Michael McNeil and celebrated winemaker Chelsea Goldschmidt were in attendance. Proceeds benefited the Food Bank of North Ala. and EarlyWorks Children’s Museum. n
Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings
Zack & Cathie Tate, Wes & Michelle Patterson, Lisa Bobo, Lee Huffstutler
Melody Crane, Stephanie Mell, Marita Durham
2026 Rocket City Wine Fest Krewe
Lisa Bobo, Lacy Dyar
Kate McElvoy, Todd Lowry, Susan Bean, Zara Lowry
Christy Rezabek, Rachael Creech, Kelley Whitworth, Sherry Whitworth
Huntsville Happenings
Written by Jennifer Moore, Pres./CEO
Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Happy 250th, USA!
This summer is especially meaningful in the Rocket City as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation with special events and activities commemorating this milestone and creating opportunities for lasting memories. Numerous events are scheduled for July 4th, including familyfriendly activities, musical performances, vendor tents, and food trucks in Big Spring International Park, along with a parade through downtown Huntsville and a spectacular fireworks show that evening.
Live Music & Big Performances
Music will fill the air at venues across the community this summer. From Dueling Pianos and live performances at Stovehouse to concerts spanning an incredible range of musical styles at The Orion Amphitheater, the Von Braun Center, Burritt on the Mountain’s City Lights & Stars Concert Series, Concerts in the Park at Big Spring International Park, and the Summer Sunset Concert Series at Ditto Landing, there is something for every music lover. You can even make music of your own with free Cigar Box Guitar lessons every Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. at the world’s only Cigar Box Guitar store in Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment.
Outdoor Adventures
At the Huntsville Botanical Garden, experience the garden through art, nature, and imagination at Nature Unframed, an immersive outdoor exhibit combining sculpture, sound, light, and interactive elements to inspire creativity, play, and exploration for guests of all ages. In addition, Shakespeare in the Garden will be offered over three weekends in July and August as a special after-hours event. The Land Trust of North Alabama, Monte Sano State Park, and the cities of Huntsville and Madison all offer hiking and biking trails waiting to be explored. Take advantage of the long summer days and plan your next outdoor adventure.
Have a Ball
Catch the Rocket City Trash Pandas at Toyota Field in Town Madison for action-packed baseball. The Huntsville City Football Club will be filling the stands at Wicks Family Field in Joe Davis Stadium for a few more home matches before the field undergoes a makeover for the inaugural Story Financial Partners Bowl. This exciting event will bring two football powerhouses, the University of North Alabama and Samford University, to the Rocket City for a Week 0 showdown. Get your tickets now for the August 29 matchup at 6 p.m.
More Summer Fun
A visit to the Huntsville Museum of Art is the perfect way to beat the summer heat while enjoying outstanding exhibits, including A Beautiful Despair: Anila Quayyum Agha through August 31, Coming Home beginning July 4, and WARHOL: Film, Fashion, Photography opening July 31. The Space & Rocket Center’s INTUITIVE® Planetarium has recently undergone upgrades, and the Thursday night Biergarten offers a great way to gather beneath the mighty Saturn V rocket.
This year also marks the debut of a new community-wide festival: Rocket City Space Fest. Launch the celebration of all things space at the Biergarten on July 16—the anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch—and meet Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger, the first Space Camp graduate to travel to space.
And That’s Just the Beginning…
These highlights are just a sampling of the events scheduled throughout July, August, and early September. Visit our website at huntsville.org or use the QR code below for updates on additional events. And don’t forget to use our Passport Coupons to stretch your budget while enjoying all that the Rocket City has to offer. n
huntsville.org/events
Parting Shot
Rocket City Fireworks
Photo by Dennis Keim
Consistency
You Can Count On.
At ServisFirst Bank, we provide steady, thoughful guidance and personalized financial solutions carefully designed to keep you moving forward with clarity, confidence, and success. ServisFirst Bank is pleased to announce the construction of its new Huntsville headquarters, further solidifying the Bank’s growing presence in one of Alabama’s most dynamic markets. Construction is currently underway and is expected to be completed in 2027. Please
