May June 2020

HUNTSVILLE

HMA Gala Cocktail Party | GHHS Dog Ball | HSO’s Painted Violin | Heart Ball MAY / JUNE 2020

MAGAZINE VOLUME 14, ISSUE 3

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May / June 2020

EVENT Magazine

Contents 24

AKA Debutante Ball

18 Publisher’s Letter

20 Editor’s Letter

50

28

11th Annual White Linen and Wine

Wine in the Winter

46

Voices of Our Times – Mary Badham

Editorials

22

Painted Violin Unveiling

50

HMA Gala Luncheon

31

Taste: Comfort Food

24

Alpha Kappa Alpha’s 62nd Debutante Presentation

52

HMA Gala Black Tie Dinner and Live Auction

47

Feature: Creative Ways to Beat Cabin Fever

28

11th Annual White Linen and Wine

54

HMA Gala Cocktail Party and Silent Auction

56

Centerstage: Bruce Weddendorf

34

A Salute To Service Honoring Our Heros

57

Von Brewski Beer Festival

60

Spotlight: Bennie Jacks

58

Wine in the Winter

36

American Heart Association Heart Ball Gothic Guild Victorian Cotillion

42

Broadway Theatre League’s 60th Season Gala Concert

44

Legacy at Jones Farm Grand Opening of Phase II Purveyor Cain Dinner

GHHS Dog Ball

47

On The Cover: Ingrid Lunsford, Nicole Reeves, Betty Hornsby, Mem Bryant at the HMA Gala Dinner Photo by Steve Babin

16

56

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 62

58

HMA Gala Luncheon

Events

38

www.eventhuntsville.com

59 Huntsville Happenings

60

What a crazy time we find ourselves in this spring. Coming off the heels of the wettest winter I can recall, the beauty of this new season seems to be heightened by the pandemic the world has been facing. Like most of you, my family and I have not been out and about other than essential errands to the grocery store, etc., but lately those trips have been framed with the beauty of God’s creation.

Our prayers are with all of those who have lost loved ones during this time, people who have lost employment, businesses that have shuttered their doors with no hope in reopening. I can only imagine the pressures world leaders are facing balancing healthcare and economies. I pray for our elected officials to have knowledge and insight to guide them through these difficult times.

I’m happy to see that our front-line workers in healthcare, supply chain and foodservice are receiving the recognition they so rightly deserve. With as much bad as we see and read everywhere, remember there is just as much good. People are coming together to help heal our country, and especially our community.

Included in this issue are the last of the events we covered before the shutdown.

We hope you enjoy seeing the faces and reading about Bennie Jacks, our Spotlight; and Bruce Weddendorf in the Centerstage feature. Both of these individuals have left their mark on Huntsville and we are better because of them.

When you are able, please shop with the advertisers you see within these pages.

They are the sole reason we are able to cover and publish these events.

Don’t forget to tell them you saw them in EVENT Magazine!

Please Stay Safe!

EVENT

HUNTSVILLE

A Letter from the Publisher

MAGAZINE

President/Publisher Todd Stephenson Editor Lori Boatfield Writers Kimberly Ballard Lori Connors Suzanne Conway Nina E. Woody Contributing Writers Judy Ryals Creative Director/ Graphic Design/Layout Patty Satterly Graphic Design/Website Jim Gharib/IG Webs Graphic Design Amy Pearson Lead Photographer Steve Babin Photographers Dave Cooper/EBQ View Jessa Harris Mark Jaeger Stephanie E. Jennings Joel and Amber Photography Doug Lighton Rich Ortiz Jeff White Director of Sales Carolyn Stephenson Account Executives Michelle Epling Lee Nast Amanda Peach 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 e-mail advertise@eventhuntsville.com For editorial information or to request coverage of an event, please visit our web site 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 © 2020. 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.

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

Todd Stephenson President/Publisher

18

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

Thank you Huntsville for your support!

Call us todaZ:

256.704.5555 thebottledowntown.com thebottlehuntsville

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19

Editor’s Note

Photo by Steve Babin

Who would have believed even two months ago that our lives would be so completely upside down? When the global pandemic effects are called unprecedented, it’s so fitting. It’s the only word I can think of to describe what has happened in our world. I join you in prayer for all those affected by the virus itself, and for those on the front lines of the crisis. I join you in looking forward to better, healthier days for our world.

While the May June edition usually focuses on travel, we shifted gears to bring you a feature that may be useful to you for the days you are sheltered safely at home.

With ideas about gardening and resources for experiencing the arts at home as well as virtual activities geared toward children, we hope you’ll find something to lift your spirits and enhance your time.

We shine our Spotlight on Bennie Jacks, a native of Madison county who spent her career and beyond working at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. At Centerstage is local brewer and entrepreneur Bruce Weddendorf, cofounder and vice president of Straight to Ale. Because we work in advance to meet the deadlines of our production schedule, you’ll find events that happened in February and March featured. Most of them happened ahead of the restricted guidelines for gatherings – though we do briefly list information about the ones that had to be canceled. From the Gala events at the Huntsville Museum of Art to the Huntsville Heart Ball, the Painted Violin Unveiling and the Broadway Theatre League Gala Concert, we’ve been out in force to highlight events that make our city a kinder, more inspiring place to live.

While you’re perusing the pages for pictures of your coworkers, friends and neighbors all dressed up, take note of the advertisers that make this publication possible. They allow us to feature the people and organizations who do so much good. Support them however you can now, and when things are closer to normal, keep supporting them. And don’t forget to tell them you saw them right here in EVENT. Stay Well and Safe!

Follow us on

Lori Boatfield Editor

20

www.eventhuntsville.com

www.eventhuntsville.com

21

Judy Link, Mallie & James Hale, Susan Ozment

Jamie Saunders, Karen Morris, Delynn Gower, Pat Cross, Clare Grisham

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Painted Violin Society Unveils this Year’s Violins Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings The Painted Violin Society held the 11th annual unveiling event on February 6 at ServisFirst Bank. They revealed the five violins to be auctioned at the 47th Annual Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Guild Crescen-Dough All-Star Auction.

Among the 200 guests were three of the five artists who painted violins this year: David Nuttall, Amy Shackelford McBroom and Kathy Chang. Artists Lucy Thomas and Melinda McChonchie were unable to attend the unveiling. With fare catered

by Betty Lankford and Sally Ennis, flowers and décor were arranged by Charlotte Wessel with Buckets and Blooms.

Steve & Patti Thornton, Pat Cross, Sarah Hereford

Proceeds from the auction of the painted violins benefit the HSO’s Annual Free Family Concert. The HSO has held a family concert for many years, but the idea of making it free to the public began in 2009 when Ginney McDonald and Donna Shergy were the chair and co-chair of the Crescen-Dough Auction.

ServisFirst Bank was the major sponsor, along with Jerry Damson Auto, the presenting sponsor of the Free Family Concert. n

Anna Molnar, Gregory Vajda

Lyle & Angela Langston, Amy McBroom, Susan & Bob Luther

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Ina Smith, Jamie Saunders

Delynn Gower, Kathy Chan, David Nuttall, Amy McBroom, Paula Renfroe

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Rick Myers, Wendy Yang

Byrd & Rosemary Latham, Margaret Riethmaier, Elizabeth Jacobus

A 昀nancial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

Ameriprise is rated #1 in the investment industry for trust.

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101 Lowe Ave, Suite 1A • Huntsville, AL 35801 1 Ameriprise Financial was rated #1 in the investment industry for trust according to the Temkin Group 2018 Trust Ratings. The Temkin Trust Ratings (TTR) is an openly available loyalty benchmarking metric. When companies have earned trust, their customers are willing to believe their claims and are more inclined to work with the company. The TTR is based on consumer feedback of their recent interactions with companies. Consumers were asked “to what degree do you TRUST that these companies will take care of your needs?” Responses are on a scale from 1= “do not trust at all” to 7= “completely trust.” TTR is calculated by taking the percentage of consumers that gave a rating of 6 or 7 and subtracting the percentage that gave a rating of 1, 2, or 3. See www.temkinratings.com for more.

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2020 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

23

Melissa Jakes, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Dawn Stanley

Cynthia & Duncan Massey

Sarah Mitchell, Raven Carter, Kaya Ashley King

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Epsilon Gamma Omega Marked 62nd Annual Ball Photos by Steve Babin Epsilon Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. hosted its 62nd Debutante Presentation and Ball on February 21 at the Von Braun Center. This year’s debutante theme was “A Galaxy of Opulent Beauty.” Thirty-five young ladies were presented in front of more than 700 family, friends and special guests.

Dr. Cheryl R. Davis, President, welcomed all in attendance and introduced Dr. Terrance Vickerstaff and Ms. Erica Washington as the distinguished presenters. As part of the special evening, participants performed a modern waltz with their escorts, choreographed by Ms. Angela Wilson.

Katrina Eason, Terry Miller, Dominique Jefferson, Melissa Jakes, Datie Priest, Dawn Stanley

The Debutante Presentation and Ball was the culmination of activities, which was comprised of educational, cultural, community service projects, hobby talent showcase, digital scrapbooking and social functions. A toast given by Representative Anthony Daniels followed the night’s cotillion dance. After the toast, the debutantes and presenters shared their first dance. n continued on page 26

Sharrone Jamar, Liz Clemons, Sylvia Smith, Patricia Fuzzell

Jeff & Jala Clarke

24

Terry Miller, Laura Hall

Michael Jr., Sandra & Michael Anderson Sr.

Cynthia Massey, Cheryl R. Davis, Margaret Smith

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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25

AKA Debutante Ball continued

Dr. Earnest & Cheryl R. Davis

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Epsilon Gamma Omega 2020 Debutantes

Michele Gary-Hunt, Carmen Battle

China Green, Aja Yarbrough, Jada Owens, Raven Carter, Neveah Eggleston, Kristyn Smith, Kaitlyn Walker

Darwin & Adrienne Washington Sharon Gresham, Triana Mayor Mary Caudle, Laura Clift

Stephanie Sanderson-Garrett, Elnora Urquhart

26

Dr. Andrew & Abbiegail Hugine

Gerlinkia Russell, Alexis Toney, Erin Williams-Rice

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Celebrating 50 years of bringing people and art together

American Master Illustrators: N.C. Wyeth, Maxfield Parrish, Norman Rockwell

Norman Rockwell Man Inspecting Socks 1924 oil on Masonite, 23.5 x 23.5 in.

www.eventhuntsville.com

Š 2020 Exhibition curated and organized by National Museum of American Illustration, Newport, RI, www.americanillustration.org and the American Illustrators Gallery, New York, NY, www.americanillustrators.com.

27

Nicholas Sharp, Todd Lackey, Jamison Howard, Donald Salls

Cindy Culpepper, Brian Mathews, Carol Carroll

White Linen and Wine Honors Survivors PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Jessa Harris The Russel Hill Foundation honored cancer survivors at the 11th annual White Linen and Wine event on February 8 at the Jackson Center. The event serves to raise awareness and funds for cancer patients in North Alabama.

Among the guests were the 2020 honorees: Eula Battle, Suzanne Clowers, Pammie Jimmar and Sonia Robinson. The event was made possible by presenting sponsor Clearview Cancer Institute.

Eula Battle, Pammie Jimmar, Sonia Robinson, Suzanne Clowers (honorees)

“We extend a special thanks to our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and attendees for helping us raise funds for our cancer community,” said Russel Hill Executive Director Emily Davis. The mission of the Russel Hill Cancer Foundation is to improve the health of the North Alabama area through the support of bold, innovative cancer research, cancer education, and patient assistance. n

Chris & Suzanne Clowers, Julie & Mark Flippen Meg Butler, Cleo Valdez, Ashley Sharp

Arrah Restifo, Amber Powell

28

Carolyn Blue, Nita Farquhar

Tammy McAnally, Hope Strong

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Virlyn Rice, Pammie Jimmar

Thank You ! #HSVstrong

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Merit Bank is proud to call North Alabama home and we look forward to serving our community.

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Taste

Comfort

Food

The pandemic has brought to a halt the art of “eating out.” But while we’re home, we can still safely take-out. And what do we crave during these days? Quarantinis?

Well, maybe. But more than that, we crave comfort food! Take a look at what some of our area’s eateries have to offer for pick up – and dream of the days when you can sit at their tables again!

31

Gibson’s famous pork-stuffed baked potato Gibson’s Bar-B-Q

Photo by Steve Babin

Photo by Steve Babin

Scratch made buttermilk biscuit and paleo sausage gravy with a sunny-side-up egg Mason Dixon Bakery + Bistro

Photo by Steve Babin

32

At approximately 38 ounces and 20 inches long, this signature cut of Black Angus Prime beef is seasoned and chargrilled to perfection. Comfort food at its absolute best.

Tom Brown’s TOM-ahawk Ribeye Tom Brown Restaurant

Photo by Steve Babin

Braised Beef Short Rib The Bottle With garlic herb mashed potatoes, Napa cabbage, Heirloom carrot and sweet pepper slaw

Cream of Pumpkin, Leek and Fennel Puree With cheese crostini, parsley infused extra virgin olive oil

Photo by Steve Babin

33

Liz Hurley, Jen Holliday, Kirstie Ennis, Brandy Smith, Faye Wishik

Salute to Service Marks Second Year

Dave Johnson, Willie Simmons, Dave Bonwit, Kirstie Ennis, Mike Dahl, Todd Butler, Louis Kubik

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Semper Fi Community Task Force held its 2nd Annual Salute to Service (S2S) event on March 11 at the Von Braun Center. The event allows the Task Force to share its success stories and provides an opportunity for local businesses to actively participate in the support of veterans, military, first responders, and their families and families of the fallen.

Guests included emcee Liz Hurley, veterans and program participants. The meal was catered by VBC with flowers and décor by In Bloom. Entertainment was provided by Dr. Pamela “Nikki” Wilson.

The evening featured guest speaker Kirstie Ennis, a Marine who was injured in Afghanistan in 2012. In addition, four program participants shared their stories of the Task Force’s impact on their lives and their families.

Jeff & Faye Wishik, Kirstie Ennis, Leigh & Cade Dollar

The Task Force thanks their sponsors, including Presenting Sponsors Boeing and the Dahl Family Foundation. n

Kirstie Ennis, Jen & Doc Holliday Aprle Hudson, Carla Stiles, Rachel Grainger, Sue Nehilla

Mike Dahl, Kirstie Ennis, Ryan Dahl

34

Marilyn Phillips, Kirstie Ennis, LTG (R)William N. Phillips

Tommy Overcash, Kirstie Ennis, Debbie Overcash

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

MSG Richard Mason, Maj Chelsi Drabek, SFC Craig Derosia

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Brandon & Jennifer Berry

Brett & Lawren Bennett

Lynn & John Troy, Sue Delorme, Deena Poore

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

2020 Huntsville Heart Ball Photos by Rich Ortiz The 2020 Huntsville Heart Ball was held on February 15 at the Westin Huntsville.

The event featured a sit-down dinner, with tables hosted by the Huntsville community’s premier companies who champion the American Heart Association cause to make a difference in the community. Live and silent auctions, entertainment and dancing highlighted the evening. Proceeds from the event are used to further the research, education, and community outreach activities of the American Heart Association in the North Alabama area.

Michael Kirkpatrick, TC Chassay Zimmerman Tarri Mason, Hank Isenberg

The 550 guests danced to tunes by Groove Band. Flowers and décor were arranged by 333 Designs. The Signature Heart Ball Sponsor was DESE Research, while Torch Technologies was the Ignite the Night sponsor.

Michael Kirkpatrick, 2020 Huntsville Heart Ball Chair said, “We would like to thank the community of givers that set a new record of money raised at Huntsville’s American Heart Association’s Heart Ball! Together, we create better and longer lives for our family members, friends, and co-workers.” n

Pjeter P. Vucinaj, Angela Pounders Cindy & Tim Thornton

Maike DeMaria, Hank Isenberg, Shannon Drake

36

Tom & Rachel LaBerenz

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Mo & Martha Brooks

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Ronnie Boles, Charlotte Schlittler

Linda & Woolsey Finnell

Gothic Guild’s Victorian Cotillion

Bo & Amy Bailey, Elizabeth & Lee Foster

Photos by Steve Babin

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

The 2020 Victorian Cotillion Dinner Dance was held March 14 at the Von Braun Center's North Hall. The dance is the culmination of the events that make up the Victorian Cotillion Club, a program sponsored by the Gothic Guild.

The Victorian Cotillion Club was chartered in 1985. Each year, members are given five weeks of instruction emphasizing the timeless social graces that continue to befit today’s lifestyle. Members must be 15 years of age and enrolled as a sophomore in a high school in Madison County; maintain a good academic record as well as demonstration of leadership through participation in school, church, social and civic activities.

Escoe Beatty, Sharon Blackwell

Randy Roper, Ken Rivenbark

Dr. Kenneth Rivenbark served as Master of Ceremonies and an introduction was offered by Gothic Guild President, Donna Rush, as well as Cotillion Chair, Tabby Ragland. Decorations were created by members of the Gothic Guild with designs by Randy Roper. Entertainment was provided by the Craig Duncan Orchestra.

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 Lincoln Village Ministries. n continued on page 40

Donna Rush, Tabby Ragland, Jacque Hudson, Jordan Morgan

Emily Johnson, Delores Jolliff, Harriett & Ashley Ayers

38

Amy & Lee Collier

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Caroline Hall, Eric Patterson

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PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Victorian Cotillion continued

BACK ROW: Sadie Elizabeth Anglin, Chloe June Stepien, Kendal Brooke Killian, Jane Hollaway Simpson, Mallory Paige Holland, Anna Catherine Goodson, Isabella Ariel Duesing, Samantha Fay Counts, Sarah Claire Bates, Dylan Alexandra Haley, Maggie Grace May THIRD ROW: Alexandra Elizabeth Cazier, Catherine Love Plott, Catherine Clay Martin, Avery Elizabeth Franklin, Julia Ann Fowler, Madeline Kate Slinkard, Elizabeth Park Scholl, Grace Sims Stucky, Scout Margaret Esmeralda Ann Bender, Anna Katherine Ayres, Sarah Allyse Mathis SECOND ROW: Suzan Tabory Ellett, Clara Grace McManus, Mallory Elizabeth Wilson, Holland Kelly Hensley, Tate Chandler Reinhardt, Ansley Claire Scales, Anastasia Rachel Jenette Gann, Hannah Grayce Williams, Anna Holland Blackwell, Morgan Brown Anthony, Addison Olivia Tate FRONT ROW: Phoebe Caroline Duncan, Emily Addison McArthur, Ella Katherine Hudson, Virginia Ann Jarres, Claudia Lucille Bloom, Margaret Chrystalla Kattos, Wyndham Karen Herring, Anna Claire Keith, Betty Jean League, Claire Barrett Lewis, Sarah Michal Jaeger Not pictured: Anna Elisabeth McClellan

Sarah & Tom Hereford

Richard & Nancy Van Valkenburgh

Julie Lockwood, Dawn Perry, Tricia Murray

Jacque Hudson, Amy Brooks, Tabby Ragland, Mark & Sassy Jaeger, Sarah Lauren Kattos

40

Trey, Chase & Samantha Bentley

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Erin, Rob & Mary Lynn Owens Steven & Dr. Amanda Barnes

Vicki Hendrick, Stephanie Daniel

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Broadway Theatre League Commemorates 60 Years Photos by Steve Babin Broadway Theatre League celebrated 60 years with a gala and concert featuring Broadway and television star Kristin Chenoweth at the Von Braun Center on March 8. The organization was founded in 1959 by the Professional Women’s Business Club. Since then, Broadway Theatre League has brought 335 shows to the Tennessee Valley entertaining over 1.4 million people.

The 1,400 guests included 60-year season members; the family of BTL’s founder, Louise Rodgers; and Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle and wife Eula. Flowers and décor were arranged by Chip Padgett. The gala event was made possible by Jerry Damson Automotive Group.

Andrew Willmon, Eula & Mayor Tommy Battle

“It has been Broadway Theatre League’s honor to entertain and educate the citizens of the Tennessee Valley with the very best of Broadway since 1959,” said Andrew Willmon, Executive Director n

Roxanne Bowles, Hannah Powell

42

Donn & Robin Jennings

Cheryl Arnold, Larry Fine

Jacinda Swinehart, Leah Snowman

Catherine Courtney, Ronnie Boles

Wendy Wilson & Curt Benzle

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

We salute bravery in action Merrill proudly supports and thanks our military men and women for their courageous and patriotic service to the United States of America.

Staley Dunn Wealth Management Group David L. Staley, CDFA®, CFP®, CRPC® First Vice President Senior Resident Director 256.650.2437 david_staley@ml.com Christel K. Dunn, CFP® Wealth Management Advisor 256.650.2462 christel.dunn@ml.com

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Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value The Bull Symbol is a registered trademark of Bank of America Corporation.

CDFA® is a trademark of The Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts™. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ in the U.S. CRPC® is a registered service mark of The College for Financial Planning. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

AR8JMCLJ | AD-03-20-0142 | 470953PM-0919 | 03/2020

Nicole Gaines-Doyle & Christopher Doyle with Boone & Porkchop

Cathy & Doug Lighton Terry Bradford, Diane Strickland, Meredith Miller, Tammie Berzett, Karen Reed

Strutting Down “Bark Avenue” PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Stephanie E. Jennings The year 2020 marked another successful Dog Ball – the 31st annual – at Von Braun Center’s South Hall on February 8. The 700 guests enjoyed a silent auction containing more than 150 items from local businesses, artists, and generous donors; a fabulous dinner; and of course, the main event, the presentation of 50 Very Important Dogs (VIDs,) service and working dogs.

The event raised well over $100,000 that will further the mission of the Greater Huntsville Humane Society to use rescue, training, adoption, education and advocacy to ensure the humane treatment and welfare of all animals. The event’s presenting sponsor was Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Save the date for next Dog Ball – February 6, 2021. For more information visit www.thedogball.org. n

Ben & Amy Claire Cox with Scarlett, Kelsey & Matt Zwack with Maverick

Tyler & Leah Scott, Brooke & Geoff Harriman

Kristen Oldfield, Katie Bouldin Perez, Kelsey Zwack, Lisa Revesz, Elizabeth Benz

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Hamlin & Anne Caldwell, Sabrina Wood with Frances Josephine

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Danielle Bradshaw, Bryan Dewberry with Sadie

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Denise Swain, Diane Reynolds

Mary Shepard Hughes, Bobby Bradley

Laura Smith, Jennifer Goff, Narvell Patton, Darlene Stanford

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Voices of Our Times with Actress Mary Badham Photos by Steve Babin To celebrate the Huntsville Museum of Art’s 50th Anniversary, the Voices of Our Times series hosted Academy Award-nominated actress Mary Badham. The February 13 event included an in-depth discussion of her role in the 1962 production of “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Dana A. Williams, of Howard University conducted the interview with Badham, who discussed her role as Jean Louise “Scout” Finch and the film’s message of social justice.

Dan & Dabsey Maxwell, Mary Sue & Bill Mims

Museum Executive Director, Christopher Madkour was excited to host Badham as part of the museum’s celebration of Black History Month. “‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ was enormously popular when [it was] was published in 1960,” said Madkour. “The novel was on the list of required readings in my literature class in high school and still holds up as one of the finest pieces of American literature ever written.”

Guests enjoyed a wine reception following the interview. Voices of Our Times series sponsors are AL.com, Colonial Printing, Donny's Diamond Gallery, PNC and Shelbie King. n

Mary Badham, Dana Williams

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Donny Maleknia, Fatemeh Nazarieh

Garrett Smith, Ina Wilson Smith

Patsy Haws, Kerry Doran

Charlie Bonner, David & Lee Nast

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Creative Ways to Beat Cabin Fever

Feature

It’s ironic that our May June issue traditionally features travel. For this year’s issue, we adapted.

While we aren’t able to take exotic trips, we can look to expand our horizons in different ways.

In this feature, we offer some ideas to beat cabin fever by traveling to our own backyards; finding inspiration virtually in the arts; as well as fun and educational resources for the children in our lives.

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Harvey Cotten, former chief operating officer for the Huntsville Botanical Garden described the creation of a Zen garden as a way to calm the senses, “A garden is a perfect place for reflection, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Life bombards us with stimuli that we must respond to right now. More and more we desire, nay, crave to unplug, get away, remove ourselves from the constant noise that surrounds us. A garden can be that place of respite for you. Creating a place to step away from all clutter of the world, to embrace the calming reality that nature can provide may be the best medication you can prescribe for yourself.

Carving out a quiet, shady spot in your garden where you can retire can be akin to going to your study, closing the door, putting on some soft jazz and curling up with a good book. The garden can provide the same relaxation you crave.”

Gardening In these uncertain times, whether you’re safely sheltering at home or as an essential worker – taking on risk to your health; anxiety and stress are sure to exist. While what is happening in the world is beyond anyone’s control, you may find some ways to bolster your well being.

Gardening offers benefits in a variety of ways: it creates calm spaces, it creates a sense of order, and it can create a bounty for the table, be it flowers or vegetables.

Even if you don’t have the supplies to plant flowers or vegetables during times of social restriction, you can still reap the benefits of gardening by getting outside and being active; perhaps weeding and clearing landscaping areas or preparing the soil for future planting.

According to Psychology Today’s Seth J. Gillihan, Ph.D., “…studies have found evidence that being in green, or even being able to look out on a green landscape, is linked with…less anxiety and depression, better stress management, and many other positive effects.”

“Caring for a plant has particular value for people facing challenging personal circumstances beyond their control that negatively affect physical and emotional health,” said blogger Jolene Hansen at Gardentech.com.

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Cotten continued, “When trying to relax, a background of green truly sets the tone. It begins to calm the senses almost immediately. Color can be provided by using varying shades of green and even incorporating plants with variegated foliage like Shady Lady Illicium, Variegated Soloman’s Seal or the many different hostas available with white or gold markings. While color stimulates the sense of sight, a Zen garden setting should involve the sense of smell to truly put one in the relaxation mode. Adding fragrance to the garden is easy with plants that have either fragrant foliage or flowers. Illicium has foliage that smells of licorice while rosemary is wonderful to have close by your seating area to help perfume the air with soothing aromas. The flowers of sweet shrub, sweet olive or gardenia will truly fill your surroundings with fragrances to calm the nerves and help remove the cares of the day.”

Cotten said of growing vegetables, “[Consider] a small vegetable garden in close proximity [to your home and outdoor dining space] and enjoy the satisfaction of picking fresh, home-grown squash, cucumbers or tomatoes and then cooking them up for dinner. Growing containers of fresh herbs that are readily accessible for picking truly enhance the flavors of any meal. The good news is that many vegetables can be grown in small spaces whether that be in raised beds, straw bales or even large containers. The trick is making it easy to get to – vegetable gardens need attention and having it way out in the back of the property often spells trouble. The

distance becomes an obstacle, so it is better to grow a few things well and keep them close at hand in order to use as they ripen.”

The Arts Music is closely connected with emotions. It stands to reason then, that music can have a therapeutic effect on the stress and anxiety that may result from the uncertainty of these times. “Listening to music can have a tremendously relaxing effect on our minds and bodies, especially slow, quiet classical music. This type of music can have a beneficial effect on our physiological functions, slowing the pulse and heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the levels of stress hormones. Music, in short, can act as a powerful stress management tool in our lives,” said Jane Collingwood of psychcentral.com.

While creating art is beneficial for physical and emotional wellbeing, it has been proven that viewing art can have the same benefits, as well as boosting critical thinking skills. According to Koenraad Cuypers, a researcher at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, “A study discovered that there was a definite correlation between participating in cultural activities—like creating art or attending concerts—and having increased rates of good health, satisfaction with one’s life, and lower rates of anxiety and depression in both men and women. Furthermore, the study concluded that these benefits were found in people who both created or consumed the arts. That means that people who enjoy looking at art get the exact same health benefits as people who enjoy making art.”

Since going to a museum, concert or play may not be an option right away, a variety of resources exist to enrich and inspire you during times at home.

Music: Virtual orchestras and choirs are popping up on YouTube and social media. Helena Asprou at ClassicFM.com made a list that includes these notable selections: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, from Socially Distant Orchestra; Grieg from the Arctic Philharmonic; Aaron Copland’s ‘Appalachian Spring’, from Toronto Symphony Orchestra; Burt Bacharach’s ‘Close To You’, from Couch Choir; Rutter from the Girl Choristers of

Huntsville Museum of Art offers create at home projects for families.

Holy Trinity church, Guildford. Billboard.com has a running list of livestream and virtual concerts to watch during Coronavirus Crisis.

Plays: Broadway HD is offering a 7-day free trial with fulllength shows available to stream including: 42nd Street; Kinky Boots; Miss Saigon; Oklahoma; Phantom of the Opera; Sweeny Todd; The King and I; The Sound of Music.

Museum Exhibitions and Tours: Take a digital tour of the Louvre: Visit the museum’s exhibition rooms and galleries, contemplate the façades.

Jennifer Kite-Powell, Senior Contributor at Forbes.com notes, “The Musée d’Orsay in Paris and the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam let you virtually tour their collections.

The Acropolis Museum’s virtual tour takes you through the Parthenon Gallery and the Archaic Acropolis Gallery from the comfort of your living room.

The Cleveland Museum of Art has virtual tours through its augmented reality (AR) ArtLens App. Through the museums’ collection cnline, users can access info and metadata for more than 61,000 artworks, through social media, and with video content.”

Children and Families

livescience.com offers the following resources and more: • Visit with butterflies in the San Diego Zoo’s Hidden Jungle greenhouse, through their butterfly cam livestream • Tour marine sanctuaries and ocean habitats with a collection of virtual dives from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) • Theater-lovers can browse a range of classroom activities from the legendary Shakespeare’s Globe Theater.

• San Francisco’s Exploratorium offers activities to help kids understand the science behind viruses, how they affect the human body, and how we can protect ourselves against infection.

• Scholastic launched a Learn at Home website with daily lessons that combine videos, stories and prompts for drawing and writing activities for all grade levels.

• Khan Academy, a free online learning resource offering lessons, exercises and quizzes, has daily schedules for organizing at-home learning for students ages 4 to 18 years. On weekdays, Khan Academy is also offering daily livestreams on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter to help parents and educators best utilize the website’s tools and resources.

• Crash Course is a YouTube channel offering engaging educational videos suitable for high school students. The channel features a wide range of subjects, from anatomy to world history.

• More than 2,500 museums around the world have made their collections accessible online through Google Arts and Culture; you can also use Google to access virtual tours of national parks in the U.S. Children’s musical performer Jack Hartmann has free educational musical programming on his YouTube channel.

Parade.com’s list of 125 Things to Do with Kids During Coronavirus Quarantine includes: • Watching the beluga whales at the Georgia Aquarium via webcam • Watching the Cincinnati Zoo Livestream • Check out Mars with a digital 360 degree camera • Listen to Josh Gad (voice of Olaf) story reading on Twitter • Listen to an astronaut read from space on Storytime From Space • Take a virtual tour of a farm on Farm 360 • Explore Africa with African wildlife cam • Watch Bill Nye the Science Guy and do a science experiment with him n

Links: https://www.classicfm.com/music-news/coronavirus/self-isolating-choirs-orchestras-perform-concerts/ https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop/9335531/coronavirus-quarantine-music-events-online-streams https://www.broadwayhd.com/subscription https://www.louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne https://www.forbes.com/sites/jenniferhicks/2020/03/20/these-galleries-artsorganizations-and-museums-are-keeping-art-accessible-during-covid-19/#39a069f81d1c hsvbg.org/nature-activities-for-kids/ hsvmuseum.org/academy/-at-home/ www.youtube.com/channel/UCVcQH8A634mauPrGbWs7QlQ

With the onset of the pandemic, the final terms of school are canceled, and students are learning from home.

While the additional time parents and children are home together can contribute to bonding, adding an educational element can certainly contribute to stress.

livescience.com/coronavirus-kids-activities.html parade.com/1009774/stephanieosmanski/things-to-do-with-kids-during-coronavirus-quarantine/

Teachers are encouraging parents not to equate distancelearning with a full school day. Dr. Colette Poole-Boykin explained in a post on GMA.com, “Experts agree that just because children are in school for eight hours a day does not mean that they need eight hours of instruction at home. Research suggests a simple rule for figuring out how long children can stay focused: Multiply the child’s age by 2-5 minutes. So, if a child is 4 years old, he or she will be able to focus for 8 to 20 minutes, maximum.”

While some children have specific assignments to complete, other teachers promote learning through daily activities and fun online resources, especially for younger children. Throughout the health crisis, educational, artistic and entertaining resources for children and families have become available online, including some right here in Huntsville.

Huntsville Botanical Garden offers photos and videos of the Garden, as well as at-home-activities for kids.

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Christopher Madkour, Narvell Patton

Kristen Ives, Richard Keith Langham, Irene Mitchell

HMA’s Gala Luncheon

Joy Hall, Harriet Frederick, Jill Grace, Mindy Nettles

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin The Huntsville Museum of Art and the Museum’s Gala Committee hosted the 29th Gala in March to help celebrate the Museum's 50th Anniversary. One of Huntsville’s premier occasions, the Gala consisted of three events that benefit Museum programming throughout the year.

The first of the three, the Gala Luncheon was on March 3 and featured celebrated interior decorator, Richard Keith Langham. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and having attended the Study Center for the Fine and Decorative Arts in London, Langham is known for creating signature rooms that speak of the past in a fresh way that brims with color, pattern and couture. n

Amelia Summerville, Jean Templeton, Betty Tomlin, Rosemary Latham

Donna Taylor, Patricia Elrod

Nicole Reeves, Ingrid Lunsford

Anna Ford, Ann Ever Ainsworth, Haley Mann, Kelly O’Connor

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Andrea Petroff, Danny Owen

Meggan Crunkleton, Brandy Smith, Lindsay Rice

Monica Drake, Ginger Harper

Dabsey Maxwell, Melissa Dodgen

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

www.eventhuntsville.com

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Kendra & Si Garrett

Stephen & Kristen Davis

Sarah & Parker Jones

Melody & David Chan

Stephen & Kristen Davis, Chad & Haley Mann, Trent & Caitlin Thomas

Gala Black Tie Dinner and Live Auction PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin Considered one of Huntsville’s premier events, the Huntsville Museum of Art’s Annual GALA, presented by the GALA Committee, is a tangible force aiding the Museum in its effort to bring people and art together in our community. The Gala Committee has lent well over $4 million in support of the Museum throughout its 29-year history.

The second of the Gala events was a Black-Tie Dinner and Live Auction on March 5.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour followed by dinner and a live auction. Gala Committee Co-Chair Betty Hornsby said, “The Gala Live Auction Dinner is an elegant night where the main focus is on the art. Gorgeous art and over-the-top trips and parties were auctioned off in a sale by bid. Chef James Boyce created a delectable menu and Event Coordinator Carl Casiday [presented] a stunning floral extravaganza to transport guests to an English garden!” n

Christy Alison, Alison Stevens, Belle Kelly

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Hilary Claybourne, Matt Jones

Margaret Gleason, Brooke Ray, Mem Bryant, Betty Hornsby, Sara Ahearn, Jennifer Panico

Meredith Loyd, Blake Bentley

Rosemary & Byrd Latham

Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Chris Hutton

William & Ashley Mitchell

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Celebrating 25 years of Dance Excellence!

Merrill welcomes Barnard Montgomery, our newest financial advisor.

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PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Chris Hutton, Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Amber & Dustin Gray

Gala Cocktail and Silent Auction

Dana & Jay Town

Photos by Steve Babin The third event of the 29th Annual Gala took place on March 7 with a cocktail party and silent auction. Guests had the opportunity to meet the Gala featured artist and enjoy live music. An art exhibition by contemporary artist, Ignat Ignatov, was on display at the Museum from February 1 – March 7 as part of the event. Born and educated in Bulgaria, Ignatov used funds from his art sales to finance a move to the United States and currently lives in southern California.

“The Gala Cocktail party and Silent Auction is the only event offering the chance to dance the night away inside museum galleries surrounded by fabulous art and amazing treasures,” said Gala Committee Co-Chair Betty Hornsby. “There was something for everyone, including live music by 4 Barrel Funk and culinary creations

by Chef Narvell.” n Col. (Ret) Keith & Gabriele Cromartie

Christopher Madkour, Robin Goldsmith

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Pat & Ron Volinski

Arthurine Shackleford, Denise Swain

Chris Penney, Margaret Gleason, Brooke Ray, Jennifer Panico, Amy Cosgrove

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

David & Lee Nast, Alice & Bryan Bentley

Parker & Sarah Jones, Emily Anne & Eric Grisham

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Kristen & George Twitty

Jordan & Andrea Petroff

Mark & Darnee Samples

Matt & Lori Meyer

Danny & Johnette Davis

James & Brandy Smith, Carolyn & Todd Stephenson

Jim & Diane Reynolds

Jamison & Kara Howard

John Baggett, Melanie Fowler, John David Wheeler, Stacey Sullins, Chad & Ashley Ayers

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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Centerstage In addition to lending his mechanical engineering background and expertise for NASA, commercial customers, and the green energy industry, Bruce Weddendorf is also co-founder and Vice President of Straight to Ale, where he and his partners have guided its growth from a small microbrewery to a popular space to enjoy beer, wine, spirits and inventive food from Ale’s Kitchen.

Photo by Steve Babin

EVENT: You are a business partner of the second largest and second oldest brewery in the state. How did Straight to Ale come to be?

BW: We founded Straight to Ale with [my wife] Jo, Dan Perry and Colin Austin in 2009. We built it as a very small company and afterwards realized that the demand for beer was enormous. We were in the right place at the right time. It’s been a wild ride since then!

EVENT: Why did you decide to start a brewery?

BW: We really wanted to make Huntsville a more fun place to live. We wanted to provide a place for people to enjoy themselves, to be locally focused and be a point of pride for the community. Beer is something that people can bond over. It is a social lubricant, if you will. When we started the business, we weren’t planning to make money.

We just wanted to pay the bills and make as much great beer as we could.

EVENT: What’s it been like to grow such a successful business?

BW: We have been super happy about being able to change Huntsville for the better and to help improve the neighborhood. After we became established at Campus 805, we have seen this area become an epicenter of entertainment. We are proud of the impact we’ve made on the city.

EVENT: What do you like to do during your leisure time?

BW: I love to go out to the lake and hang out on the boat. But honestly, I enjoy my time [at STA.] I enjoy our employees and the creativity there. We give our people a lot of room to try new ideas.

If you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like you’re working.

EVENT: Who do you give the most credit to?

BW: Jo is a huge part of everything I’ve done and a vital part of STA. She took risks right along with me to join in as partner, and she does a lot of work behind the scenes. We wouldn’t have gotten to where we are without her.

EVENT: What advice would you give people wanting to start their own business?

BW: Do something you love and do something to help people. Do something you’re passionate about. We have loved this business from the beginning. Seeing people be delighted when they drink our beer is what it’s all about. n

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Bruce f or d n Wedde

Stevi Dunn, Drew Hodges

Jay Johnson, Donny Gray, Derek Gray

4th Annual Von Brewski Beer Festival

Chris Todd, Gretchen Bell, Tory Strickland, Mary Osborne

Photos by Jessa Harris

Sponsors included IV Lounge at QC; Rocket 95.1; Downtown Huntsville Craft Beer Trail; Topgolf; and Free the Hops. n

PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

The 4th Annual Von Brewski Beer Festival was February 8 at the VBC’s South Hall.

Guests who purchased tickets received a souvenir glass that doubled as a sampling glass for the Festival. Attendees had the opportunity to sample beer not just from Huntsville brewers but from brewers across the world; a chance to dance to live music by Seducing Alice; and could build their own pretzel necklace to munch on!

Concessions included brats with peppers to round out the experience. For those who weren’t craft beer fans, non-sampling tickets were available, as well as a fully stocked bar with drinks for purchase.

Jamie Smith, Andrew Denard, Chris Bramon, Anthony Loflin

Wish We Could Have Been There!

To comply with pandemic directives and for the safety and wellbeing of organizers and attendees, several organizations cancelled their events that would have appeared in this issue.

We wanted to recognize the events and share their contact information. Look for these events to be rescheduled - or watch our calendar of events for the dates in 2021!

UCP’s 22nd Annual An Irish Evening was scheduled for March 13 at the historic Roundhouse Depot.

The fundraiser benefits United Cerebral Palsy of Huntsville and Tennessee Valley, Inc. with 2020 Presenting Sponsor, Redstone Federal Credit Union.

The fun-filled annual event features a sampling of Irish fare and more from local restaurants and vendors and live music.

For more information, visit www.ucphuntsville.org

AUSA Rocket City Bash was scheduled for March 17 at the Davidson Center under the Saturn V at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.

The event is a networking/social event for the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Global Force Symposium. The annual bash features music, drinks and a buffet.

For more information, visit www.ausa.org.

Girls Inc. of Huntsville’s The Power of the Purse was scheduled for March 19 at Westin of Huntsville. The event was to celebrate women leaders, local designers and one-of-a-kind purses.

Funds raised from the inaugural event were to provide scholarships for girls from under-served communities to attend Girls Inc. summer camp as well as provide resources to add partner schools for reaching girls who need services most.

For more information, visit www.girlsinc-huntsville.org.

Casino Knight at the Disco was scheduled for March 20 at Burritt on the Mountain/Barons Bluff.

Guests were invited to dig out their disco duds for the casino night.

The annual event features fun music and games to benefit the New Hope Children’s Clinic. All money raised benefits the medical program at the Clinic. For more information, visit www.newhopechildrensclinic.org.

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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Steve & Jennifer Jones

Walker & Jayme Gabriel Aaron Swallow, Shannon Lallemand, Erica Lamb, Marty Staten

Wine in the Winter Celebrates 3rd Year PEOPLE • PLACES • PARTIES

Photos by Steve Babin An elegant evening in a beautiful setting awaited guests at the 3rd annual Wine in the Winter event at the Huntsville Botanical Garden. The event was presented by Mercedes Benz of Huntsville.

Attendees enjoyed an upscale wine tasting featuring wines hand-selected by Church Street Wine Shoppe and fare from Purveyor. Wine in the Winter offered something for every palate and degree of expertise. New this year, guests were invited to choose one of three different experiences for the evening’s festivities: The VIP Experience, The Grand Hall Experience and The Carriage House Wine Adventure. n

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Jessica & Seth Glenn

Staci & Ramsey Bentley

Helen Connor, Susan Marshall

Marita Durham, Carmelita Palmer

Theresa Croley, Kimberly Carter, Robin Mitchell

Kris & Brian Goodwin

Dr. Hayley DeGraaff, Chris Hutton

Lameka Crutcher, Demetria Ewing, Starr Howard, Erica Lamb

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

Huntsville Happenings

Written by Judy S. Ryals Pres./CEO Huntsville/ Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau

As President and CEO of the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau, it has been an honor and a pleasure providing Huntsville Event Magazine readers with a summary of events and activities in Huntsville, Madison and Madison County which add to our quality of life and create memories. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has prohibited all gatherings in public places of more than 10 people and thereby forced the cancellation or postponement of all of the events and activities we customarily enjoy.

This pandemic has touched us all and changed the way we live our lives. The local hospitality industry, which is comprised of attractions, hotels, restaurants, car rental agencies, airport and entertainment venues, has been hit especially hard. Many of the 17,000 employees have been impacted with furloughs, lay-offs and cut-backs due to the pandemic. To assist all those who have been impacted, we’ve created a COVID-19 resources page on our website that features information from and links to the CDC, federal government, national, state and local organizations, associations and agencies that can provide assistance.

Those who are still working are doing the jobs of many and, in some cases, risking exposure to provide services for the rest of us. Please do whatever you can to support the local businesses during this most challenging time.

For all the medical professionals, first responders, grocery store team members and delivery personnel who have worked throughout the pandemic to provide healthcare, food, supplies and other essential goods and services, we owe you our deepest gratitude. Our elected and appointed officials, who are leading us through this unprecedented crisis, have earned our support and heartfelt thanks.

When the experts agree that we can once again interact, travel and enjoy the high quality of life that our area offers, I encourage you to do so. The attractions, hotels, restaurants and other businesses will need your support, more than ever, and I know this community can and will respond. In the meantime, follow the guidelines of social distancing, sanitizing and no groups larger than 10. We’re all in this together – six feet apart.

Stay safe and stay well.

Yours in hospitality,

Judy S. Ryals www.eventhuntsville.com

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Bennie Jacks

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Spotlight

A native of North Alabama, Bennie Jacks earned numerous honors and awards during her long career at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, including the coveted Silver Snoopy award, presented by an astronaut to recognize outstanding performance and contributions to flight safety and mission success.

EVENT: Have you lived in Huntsville all your life?

BJ: Yes, I am a native of Madison County. I grew up on a farm with three sisters and two brothers in Gurley. I graduated in 1966 from Gurley High School and married my high school sweetheart, Paul Jacks. We dated in high school and were married for 42 years until he passed away in 2008. He was also a native of Madison County and served 30 plus years with the Huntsville Police Department. We raised a son and have two beautiful granddaughters who live in Tuscaloosa. I am truly blessed to have lived, worked, played and raised my family in “The Rocket City” all my life!

EVENT: How did you get started working for NASA? BJ: As students in high school, we took the Civil Service Exam and if you passed the test, you had the opportunity to work for NASA or the Army on Redstone Arsenal.

Upon graduation, I chose to work for NASA. This was when Dr. von Braun was the Marshall Space Flight Center Director. I received on-the-job training and served in various clerical and administrative positions until 1985, when I entered the Professional Intern Program.

Written by Nina E. Woody Photos by Steve Babin

EVENT: Your volunteer position as promoter for Elvis tribute concerts sounds interesting!

BJ: All told, I have served as Volunteer Promoter of five Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artists Concerts. I did everything from organizing entire events to coordinating logistics regarding the entertainers, airfare, lodging, food, media coverage, and interviews.

Proceeds from all five concerts benefited several 501(c)(3) organizations in the Rocket City.

One Elvis Tribute event that I organized was bringing two of the World’s Best Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artists and special backup singers and entertainers to Huntsville for the 40th Anniversary Reenactment Concert, celebrating when Elvis Presley came to Huntsville to perform in 1975. Huntsville is the only city Elvis ever performed five back-to-back, sold-out concert performances! This Reenactment Concert was a major fundraiser for the Huntsville Madison County Veteran’s Memorial Foundation and was a huge success.

But I was unable to participate in the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artists Concerts event in 2019 because I broke both of my feet in August - in Memphis of all places! Thank the Lord I am back on my feet again. As Willie Nelson would sing: I’m back on the road again! n

EVENT: You worked for NASA for a long time!

BJ: I held many different positions over the years until I retired as a GS-13 Business Management Analyst in the Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate in 2010 – a 45-year career! I am ever so thankful for my career at NASA. I worked with so many wonderful, intelligent, diverse people - men and women who put men on the moon.

EVENT: What have you done after retirement from NASA? BJ: I spend my free time with my family while working as a volunteer at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, the Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau as a visitor information assistant, and volunteering and fundraising for other organizations.

I’m also involved with my church and other community-related special events.

EVENT: Tell us more about your volunteer position at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center?

BJ: I currently serve as the U. S. Space & Rocket Center Volunteer & Community Outreach Coordinator and a member of the dynamic NASA/Military Emeritus Docent Team at the USSRC. I helped establish this program in 2014. We currently have over 164 NASA retirees, contractors, and military personnel on board with us in the USSRC Emeritus (NASA/Military) Docent Program. As the community volunteer coordinator, I recruit and assist with various community and USSRC center-wide duties, activities and special events.

EVENT: How does one become a volunteer with this program?

BJ: Each volunteer must complete a volunteer/emeritus application form, undergo a background investigation and attend special orientation classes. They are issued a volunteer badge, lab coat, and a shirt or military jacket. They must also attend training classes provided by the USSRC educational team. Volunteer duties, responsibilities, and activities are assigned per the individual skill set and/or special interests.

EVENT: What other organizations are important to you?

BJ: As a breast cancer survivor, I volunteer for cancer-related associations such as the Russel Hill Foundation, the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Event Leadership Planning Committee, and cancer-related special events and activities such as October Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Relay for Life, and the Huntsville Hospital Foundation Liz Hurley Ribbon Run and Luminary Sales.

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Katie Lazar, Stephanie Mell, Susan Naderi Johnston Christy Williams, Ciera Elledge, Lisa Starks

Bob Broadway, Raymond Jones, Mark Yokley

Legacy at Jones Farms Opens Phase II

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Photos by Steve Babin Legacy at Jones Farms held a grand opening for their new Phase II on February 20.

Guests were invited to tour the luxury homes and upscale amenities. Legacy at Jones Farm combines award-winning design concepts and a commitment to luxury to create a distinctive rental living experience. One, two- and three-bedroom homes are available as well as a limited number of two-bedroom carriage style homes with direct access garages. n

Purveyor’s Exclusive Cain Dinner Photos by Steve Babin Purveyor had the honor of hosting a dinner on February 11 to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Cain Vineyard & Winery. Guests enjoyed a perfectly paired, five-course wine dinner with amazing selection of Cain wines. The exclusive event included special guests from Cain Vineyard & Winery, Katie Lazar, Director of Sales and Marketing; and Susan Naderi Johnston, Regional Sales Manager. n

Katie Lazar, Kate McElvoy

Carol & Mike Patterson

Dr. Murray Spruiell, Taylor Evans

Tina Littleson, Richard White

Drew Davenport, Caroline Glombowski

Jack & Emily Moody, Xan & Tim Curran

Caitlin Larrabee, Lisa Starks, Kwandia Mayberry, Keana Staten, Christy Williams

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David Brown, Steve Johnson, Troy Layton, Randy Sexton

See and purchase photos from this event at www.eventhuntsville.com

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